Chapter 934: Hannah Returns Home

Michelle, still somewhat surprised, listened to her daughter's words. Miguel's earlier mention of domestic news had initially brought Oscar to mind, but any lingering hostility vanished instantly. She was even touched by Oscar's efforts on Hannah's and the Collins family's behalf.

While Michelle wasn't well-versed in national affairs, she'd heard of the Collins family's power. However, Hannah's reserved demeanor again sowed doubt.

Hannah, blunt and wanting to manage her mother's expectations, said slowly, "Regardless of my feelings for Oscar, as long as Una Wells is in danger, there's no possibility between us."

Michelle, about to ask a question, was interrupted by Hannah's phone ringing. Since arriving, Hannah had obtained a local number; the call was undoubtedly from Theodore.

She glanced at the incoming call, then rose and moved away from Michelle. Answering, she said, "Theodore."

"Yeah, it's me," Theodore replied, his voice weary. His state suggested Oscar's situation was even more dire.

"Something wrong?" Hannah asked casually.

"The incident—did you see it on the news?" Theodore asked.

"I saw it," Hannah replied lightly.

Theodore tightened his grip on his phone. He knew involving Hannah was fraught with peril, yet his own self-interest compelled him. He even feared Oscar would kill him upon learning of his contact, but he had no other choice. Saving Oscar had been his lifelong mission.

"I'll pick you up and take you back to Northfield," Theodore said.

Hannah felt a flutter in her chest but offered neither agreement nor refusal.

"We haven't found Lillian yet, but we believe she's hiding somewhere in Northfield. If she wants to live, we'll find her; if not…" Theodore trailed off.

Hannah remained silent, lips pursed.

"It's been a day and a night, and we haven't found her in any baby stores. But Una needs milk," Theodore continued, striving for composure. "I'm worried Lillian will retaliate against Oscar."

That could mean killing Una.

"I'll send you a picture," Theodore paused. "I've sent it."

Hannah put him on speaker and checked her phone. A blood-written message shocked her: "OSCAR, I HATE YOU!"

Theodore continued, "We've searched for a day and a night. I have to prepare for the worst… if it happens, I fear Oscar can't handle it."

"What do you want me to do?" Hannah asked calmly. She knew Theodore wouldn't have revealed so much without a purpose.

Theodore paused. "Besides you, I don't know who else can give him a reason to live. I hope you can return to Oscar. I fear he'll give up if Una dies."

Hannah remained silent.

"That day you left Northfield, I told you about Oscar's plan. I understand you've given up hope. But if I had another choice, I wouldn't have contacted you. I risk my life to ask you this. I don't care if he kills me; I live for him. But Oscar can't die!" Theodore declared, his voice thick with emotion.

Hannah remained silent, unsure how to respond.

"Oscar is Northfield's commander. His death would cause national chaos. His safety concerns the entire nation," Theodore said, pausing, seemingly on the verge of collapse. He took a deep breath. "Hannah, could you return for a visit? The Collins family's power is broken. It's safe. Even if you don't want to reconcile with Oscar, please pretend and support him through this."

"I never considered myself more important than Cian or Una Wells," Hannah replied, stating a fact, not complaining. Oscar had suffered greatly, losing loved ones. His family was his most cherished possession. Her presence might not alter his decisions.

"Hannah, you underestimate your importance to him!" Theodore said frankly. "If it weren't for you, Oscar wouldn't have acted so quickly!"

He paused, realizing he might sound accusatory.

"I didn't mean that," he continued, taking another breath. "The Collins family was poised to strike. It wasn't entirely your fault. But Oscar also wants to end things with them to regain your forgiveness and be with you again."

Hannah remained silent, not wishing to argue. Oscar's earlier mention of their breakup had prepared her for their permanent separation.

"Anyway," Theodore said solemnly, "I hope you return soon. I don't know if anyone else can change his mind, but I don't want to miss this opportunity to save him."

"Okay," Hannah agreed readily. Theodore's reasoning was sound. Oscar's leadership of the nation superseded filial piety. His survival was paramount.

"Thank you, Hannah!" Theodore exhaled in relief. He'd feared her refusal.

"Get ready," he said. "I'll send someone to pick you up tonight."