Chapter 406: Hannah Is Informed

Susan wasn't frightened by Justine's harsh words; she was accustomed to Justine's intensity. Her concern stemmed from Justine's revelation that Manuel had recklessly driven to her, jeopardizing his own safety. Yet, Manuel had remained composed throughout their encounter.

"Forget it," Justine said, noticing Susan's tears. She regretted her earlier emotional outburst, understanding the physical and emotional toll of Susan's recent miscarriage. "Rest well," Justine instructed. "We'll talk later."

"Yes, rest," Edward echoed, attempting to soothe the situation. "Don't cry; it's not good for you."

Susan turned away, unwilling to speak or let them witness her grief. She preferred to project an air of indifference.

"Stay with Susan," Justine told Edward, "I'll go to Manuel." She understood his silent suffering. He wouldn't voice his pain, nor allow others to share it.

"Go ahead," Edward replied. "The driver's waiting."

"Thank you," Justine said, departing.

"Both of you go," Susan said, her back still turned. "Dad, you too. Your presence makes me uncomfortable."

"But you'll be alone," Edward worried.

"Why not?" Susan retorted, a hint of emotion in her voice. "The doctor says I'm fine, and I'll be discharged tomorrow if all goes well. Go with Justine. I want to be alone."

"Susan, I'm worried."

"There's nothing to worry about," Susan insisted. "Go. Hurry."

Edward hesitated, but Justine urged, "Since she doesn't want us, let's go. She's in the hospital; she'll be safe."

Edward agreed. Before leaving, he said, "Susan, don't dwell on it. You lost this baby, but you can have another. Everything will be fine if you and Manuel live peacefully."

Susan hid under the covers. How could she live peacefully with Manuel? The miscarriage felt like the end of their relationship.

Edward and Justine left. Susan peeked out, her eyes reddening. She hadn't wanted them to see her sadness; her apparent indifference masked a profound heartbreak. She felt utterly devastated.

She called Hannah. Hannah, drowsy, answered, "Susan, it's late..."

Susan's sobs filled the line. Hannah, accustomed to Susan's recent frequent tears attributed to pregnancy's fragility, asked, "What happened? Did you fight with Manuel?"

"I had a miscarriage," Susan sobbed.

Hannah was stunned, momentarily unable to comprehend.

"Hannah, I miscarried. The baby's gone," Susan cried, releasing her anguish. She confided only in Hannah, a lifelong habit.

"Where are you?" Hannah asked, suppressing her questions.

"The hospital."

"I'm coming."

"VIP ward 888."

Hannah hung up and called Jimmy. He answered promptly, "Mrs. Wells."

"I need to go to the hospital. Please drive me."

"Yes, ma'am."

Hannah quickly changed and rushed to the gate. Jimmy arrived within minutes.

Overwhelmed by emotions and questions, Hannah wondered if it was an accident or a deliberate act. Maintaining composure, she arrived at the hospital. Jimmy waited outside.

Susan's tears flowed freely upon seeing Hannah. "Hannah, I lost my baby..."

Hannah, though initially inclined to blame Susan, held back, sensing Susan's genuine despair. She hugged her, saying, "I know, but you can have another. Don't cry."

"But...I was four months pregnant, and suffered so much," Susan cried. "I didn't think losing it would hurt this much."

"I know," Hannah comforted her. "Take care. Don't cry."

"But I can't stop. It feels so empty," Susan choked out.

Hannah continued to comfort her, then asked, "Where's Manuel?"

"He came and left," Susan replied, uncomfortable with his cold demeanor. She anticipated his anger and felt unable to blame him.

"He left you alone?" Hannah asked, wondering if he was utterly disheartened.

"Henry was here when he left," Susan sniffed.

"Henry? Why?" Hannah's eyebrows rose, suspecting Henry's involvement.

"Henry was in a car accident. I rushed to the hospital after hearing about it, and then I had my accident and lost the baby. Henry heard from a nurse and came to see me," Susan explained.

"Henry had an accident?" Hannah murmured, noting the coincidence.

"I don't blame him," Susan said quickly. "I chose to go see him."

Hannah paused, suppressing her thoughts, and simply asked, "Is Henry still in the hospital?"

"Yes, seriously injured."

"It's late," Hannah said. "Rest. Your health is important."

"I can't sleep."

"You have to try," Hannah coaxed. "Lie down."

Susan, as always, obeyed.