“Long time no see,” Hannah smiled. She genuinely harbored no ill feelings toward Manuel. He was easygoing and had always acted as a big brother to Susan, and to her as well. Susan, however, had been terribly unkind to him, yet he consistently tolerated her outbursts. Despite their strained relationship, he always tried to be understanding.

Hannah wondered if Manuel's departure was connected to Henry's arrival. Perhaps it was. Otherwise, why would he leave after so many years by Susan's side? Furthermore, Hannah herself had distanced herself from Manuel after Susan chose Henry. Despite this, he had been a close childhood friend. In the past, her incomplete understanding had led to her dislike of Manuel, but now, knowing the truth, she felt a pang of remorse.

Manuel returned her smile. “Long time no see too.”

“I really thought you’d never come back,” Hannah said frankly.

“My mother insisted,” Manuel explained, sounding helpless. “I’m her only family, so…”

Hannah wasn't repulsed by his return. In her previous life, she’d also kept her distance due to Susan, so she understood why he might expect a less enthusiastic welcome.

“Welcome back,” Hannah said, extending her hand.

Surprise flickered across Manuel’s gentle face. He slowly took her hand. “Thanks.”

“Welcome. Let’s have a meal together when you’re free.”

“Okay.”

“Are you going to work at Phillips Bank?” Hannah asked casually.

“No,” Manuel said firmly.

Hannah smiled. “You overheard my conversation with Susan.” She knew he’d heard Susan's comments about Manuel returning to claim a share of the inheritance. Susan suspected Manuel and his mother were up to something. Hannah couldn't blame her. When Justine joined the Phillips family years ago, Susan’s mother was still alive. This wasn't to say Justine caused her death, but Susan’s father focused entirely on Justine while Susan battled a serious illness, showing little concern for his estranged wife. Even after their divorce, Susan felt her father was heartless, especially after he refused to see her mother before she passed. This event deeply scarred Susan.

“I won’t participate in the division of the Phillips family inheritance,” Manuel stated bluntly.

“I know,” Hannah replied. She knew it was true.

Manuel’s gaze held a strange intensity. He likely didn't expect such complete trust from her, given her past identification with Susan.

“If you can, could you influence Susan to work at the company? I’m worried… she’s completely infatuated with Henry.”

“Henry treats Susan very well,” Manuel observed, his tone devoid of emotion.

Hannah continued to study him.

“Speaking of which, I heard you’re marrying next month,” Manuel said, changing the subject.

Hannah readily shifted gears; she wasn't in a position to interfere in Susan’s relationship.

“That’s true,” she nodded. She was marrying soon, but not Charles.

“I wish you all the happiness in the world.”

“Thank you,” Hannah smiled. “It’s getting late. I should go home.”

“Take care.”

Hannah entered her car and drove away from the Phillips villa. Looking back, she saw Manuel shrinking in the distance. She wouldn’t forget the anguish on his face when he saw Susan’s corpse in her last life. This time, that tragedy wouldn't happen.

At the Cooper Manor, Hannah found her father still awake, likely worried about her late night with Susan. Her mother was already in bed.

“Dad,” Hannah greeted him warmly. She felt immense gratitude for her life with her parents.

“How’s Susan?” Miguel asked, concerned. Their families were close, and Susan, estranged from her father and stepmother, often visited, treated as a daughter by Hannah’s parents.

“She’s drunk, but I got her home,” Hannah replied.

“Good. Tell her not to drink so much. It’s bad for her health.”

“I have,” Hannah said.

“It’s late. Go to sleep.”

“Dad, I need to talk to you,” Hannah said, her voice serious.

“What is it?”

“You and Mom have a great relationship, but have you truly supported her?”

Miguel froze, struggling for an answer.

“Mom never chases after things, but she’s been looked down on! She rarely interacts with the wealthy women in our circle, but is that her choice? No. She comes from a humble background, and they shun her. You’ve never given her a proper title, never introduced her as the lady of the house. They treat her like a maid!” Hannah continued gravely. “They think she’s unworthy!”

Hannah had always believed that names and reputations were unimportant, that a good life was all that mattered. But she’d changed. She wouldn't tolerate mistreatment of her family. The world was a food chain, and they couldn't afford to be passive.

Miguel was furious. “Who dares say such nonsense?”

“That’s not the point. It’s their opinion.”

“I won’t let them look down on your mother!” Miguel interrupted.

“Then do something for her.”

“What?” Miguel asked anxiously.

“Throw her a magnificent fiftieth birthday party. Show those women in Kensbury City that the lady of the Cooper Group is untouchable!” Hannah suggested.

Miguel hesitated.

“Dad, we’ve been too humble. We don’t need to be showy, but our family deserves respect. We are one of Northfield’s four biggest families, second on the wealthiest list. Why hide our position?” Why, she thought, did they always yield to the Sawyers?