Chapter 285: You Will Definitely Perish at Hannah’s Hands

Manuel was touched, but remained resolute. He didn't love Martina. He would remain alone rather than be with anyone but the woman he loved—a principle unyielding, even to Susan.

Martina's declaration of love went unanswered. Her eyes reddened. "Manuel," she said, "I will never give up!" She left, her tears a testament to his unmoved heart. No matter her efforts, he remained unaffected, unlike Susan, who could sway him with a single glance.

Passing Oscar and Theodore, Martina's distress was evident. Theodore quipped, "If Martina weren't Charles's sister and from the Sawyer family, I'd suggest you choose her." After all, Martina's love was genuine, unlike Susan's apparent heartlessness. Manuel remained silent.

Theodore and Oscar led Manuel to a secluded corner of the garden. Oscar announced, "I plan to choose the Balderston family."

Theodore and Manuel were both astonished, though Theodore's surprise was more readily apparent. "Why?" Theodore asked.

"It's Hannah's suggestion," Oscar replied frankly.

"Hannah again!" Theodore exclaimed. "One day, you'll perish at her hands!"

"Her analysis is reasonable," Oscar explained. "We suspect Charles has an accomplice, unidentified until now. It's likely the Collins family."

"Based solely on Hannah's statement?" Theodore questioned.

"Hannah knows things we don't—she seems prescient, and she wouldn't lie to me."

"Even if she did, you'd willingly be deceived," Theodore countered, his skepticism evident.

Oscar glared, but Theodore stood firm. "Charles is already collaborating with the Collins family. Following his path won't guarantee success, but choosing the Balderston family offers a better chance. Tell your dad after you go home," Oscar instructed, his tone firm.

"I will," Theodore nodded, acknowledging that despite his reservations, he would ultimately comply.

Oscar departed, leaving Theodore with the distinct impression that he was eager to reunite with Hannah, unwilling to be separated even for a moment.

Turning to Manuel, Theodore asked, "Can you go in alone?" Discreetness regarding their relationship was preferable.

Manuel nodded. "No problem."

"Then I'll enter the hall too," Theodore said, adding, "Seriously, even Martina is better than Susan. Think about it."

Manuel offered a slight smile, knowing further discussion would be fruitless. Theodore, recognizing the futility of persuasion, departed.

Manuel remained in the garden for a time before returning to the bustling banquet hall. He rarely attended such events, and his current condition made him reluctant, yet he proceeded, pushing his wheelchair into the throng.

Edward approached. "Manuel," he greeted.

"Edward," Manuel replied.

"Where's Susan?" Edward inquired, having searched for her unsuccessfully. Manuel was uncertain, unsure even if she'd left with Henry.

"That girl," Edward chuckled, "I asked her to keep you company, not abandon you."

Manuel smiled casually. "It doesn't matter. I'm alright, I can manage."

"You're feeling much better?" Edward asked with concern.

"My wounds have healed, I can feel my left leg, and my right leg is slowly improving," Manuel reported the good news, his usual reluctance to burden others apparent. Edward, often sympathetic towards Manuel's self-sufficiency, would readily entrust him with managing Phillips Bank, should he express any interest.

"That's great," Edward nodded, pausing before asking, "How's your mother?"

"She's fine. She's been traveling," Manuel replied, explaining her solitary lifestyle and subsequent pursuit of travel.