Chapter 233: Bump into a Kiss

Justine said, "Susan and I have lived together for many years. I know her character well, and I know her nature is not bad. That's why I agreed to their marriage; otherwise, I wouldn't have consented." Her statement confirmed her approval of Manuel and Susan's union.

Edward's agreement was also a given; he favored Manuel over Henry Parker and would surely be pleased, even if it meant sacrificing his own marriage prospects.

Hannah had worried about Justine's attitude, fearing it might negatively impact Susan's life after the wedding. Determined to prevent any disruption, she'd come to speak to Justine, hoping to soften her prejudice toward Susan. Apparently, her intervention proved unnecessary.

Hannah smiled, relieved. "I was afraid that sweet Susan might unintentionally offend people without realizing it. Since you know her, I won't say more."

"Susan is so lucky to have you as her best friend," Justine remarked. The depth of their friendship was evident; an ordinary friend wouldn't be so concerned about her friend's relationship with her mother-in-law. Justine understood Hannah's visit was to advocate for Susan.

Hannah smiled. "In a relationship, one can influence the other. I believe Susan will love Manuel given time."

"I hope so," Justine replied, lacking conviction. She sighed. "If you marry Manuel, it would be wonderful." Hannah was surprised. Their union was impossible. She mused that if they were naked and sleeping together, neither would likely initiate sex. "But it was good for you to marry Oscar Wells," she murmured.

Hannah, always composed, knew what to say. Turning to Manuel, she said, "Manuel, you look perfect today."

"Thanks to the clothes you gave me," Manuel replied modestly. Despite his many strengths, he remained humble, avoiding any display of superiority. His introverted nature, perhaps stemming from his single-parent upbringing, was well-known.

"They fit perfectly," Manuel said, somewhat surprised. He'd assumed the clothes were Henry's size.

"I'm so glad you like them," Hannah said, offering no explanation. "I'll go now. See you at the banquet."

"See you later."

After Hannah left, Justine stood. "In ten minutes, you should go out with Susan. I'll greet the guests."

"Okay," Manuel nodded.

"Don't pretend to be strong."

"I won't."

However, whenever he saw Susan, Manuel forgot his principles—Susan was his principles. He might break his promise to Justine, just to see Susan.

Justine left, still worried about Manuel. The doctor, having examined Manuel's injured leg, sat beside him, planning to remain throughout the wedding.

A knock sounded. Manuel assumed it was Susan, time for the newlyweds to join the banquet. Instead, it was Martina. His smile vanished, a disappointment evident to Martina.

"Were you waiting for Susan?" she asked.

"Did you want to see me?"

"If I don't come to you, will you talk to me?" Martina retorted sarcastically.

"Martina, don't hold out hope. Since childhood, I've never loved you."

"So that's it? I thought I might move you someday, but you tell me to give up. Manuel, I've loved you for years. Are you so cold-blooded?" Tears welled in Martina's eyes.

Manuel looked away.

"You only care about Susan's tears, right?"

"Martina, I can't promise you anything. If you don't love me, you'll be better off," he said coldly.

Her anguish was palpable. She couldn't understand Manuel's love for Susan, whom she considered inferior. Was it Susan's sexual prowess? Martina had seen Susan dancing provocatively in a nightclub; she admitted Susan's beauty but felt she was easily her equal, any flaws easily rectified with surgery. This thought fueled her anger. She rushed to Manuel, bending to kiss him. He was shocked, frozen by the unexpected kiss, despite knowing her feelings.

The lounge door opened again. Susan stood there, hesitating, unsure whether to leave them alone or intervene. They could marry if they loved each other so much, she thought. But why had Manuel forced her to marry him? She silently cursed them, neither leaving nor confronting them.

Soon, they separated. Manuel pushed Martina away.

"Go on," Susan said. She didn't mind Manuel's relationship with other women, feeling no dissatisfaction. Yet, she turned and left, embarrassed by the intrusion.