Chapter 548: An Encounter?

Inside the car, Hannah pondered. Then, Theodore called. "Hannah, Sarah has left Sawyer Manor."

"Is anyone with her?"

"Martina."

"Only Martina?"

"Yes."

"Where are they going?"

"I don't know. I'll have someone follow them. I'll call you back."

"Okay." Hannah nodded. Turning to Jimmy, she said, "Take me to Celina."

"Yes, ma'am."

Half an hour later, Theodore called back. "They're at the Symphony Kitchen. Coming?"

"Of course. I need to speak to Sarah, alone."

Hannah dressed and called Manuel. "Hey, Manuel."

"Finished your work?"

"Not yet."

"I'll be waiting for you at Symphony Kitchen."

"Okay."

Manuel saved his files, shut down his laptop, and left the office. He'd been working flexibly and often lost track of time. Entering the elevator, he encountered Susan on his way down. She looked displeased whenever she saw him. Manuel ignored her, though he was surprised to see her working so late. He concluded she was waiting for Henry. He didn't ask.

Standing beside him, Susan felt uneasy. She’d worked late out of boredom. Manuel usually worked until 10 PM, but he was leaving at six, which surprised her. His phone rang. He answered, "I'll be there in fifteen minutes."

"Not to rush you, but spruce up a little."

"What?"

"Use your charm."

"Okay."

After hanging up, he noticed Susan's gaze. "What's the matter?" he asked coldly, his smile vanishing instantly.

"Going on a date?" Susan asked.

Manuel didn't answer. He considered it unnecessary.

"What's your relationship with Martina?" Susan asked curiously, her uncertainty evident.

"We're just friends," Manuel replied, aiming to avoid trouble. He knew Susan would persist without a clear answer.

"You're not dating her?"

"No."

"So who called?"

He exited the elevator as the doors opened, his impatience and indifference conspicuous. Susan gritted her teeth angrily. Why should I care? she thought.

When Manuel arrived, Hannah waited at the entrance.

"I'm in a suit. Is that okay?" Manuel asked, explaining he hadn't changed intentionally; he dressed the same every day.

"Okay, you look good." Hannah nodded. He looked dashing and refined. She linked arms with him.

Manuel was startled. "I didn't mean to, but I need you to cooperate with my plan," Hannah explained.

Manuel nodded, composing himself. They entered the restaurant. A waiter seated them near a window, close to Sarah and Martina, who hadn't noticed them yet.

Martina was exceedingly friendly to Sarah. According to Charles, Sarah, considered a savior of the Sawyers, deserved utmost respect. Martina was ingratiating herself with Sarah, complying with her every request. When Sarah expressed a desire for Chinese food, Martina immediately took her to Kensbury's best Chinese restaurant. Their conversation was jovial.

"You have no idea how much my brother adores you. Before you arrived, he constantly looked at your photos! I've never seen him so obsessed."

"Really?" Sarah feigned humility. Since moving into Sawyer Manor, she'd looked down on Loretta and Martina, taking their respect for granted.

"Of course!" Martina insisted, despite her inner disdain for Sarah. Charles's ambition was paramount; his affections were secondary. Sarah's position would be precarious once he achieved his goals.

"But he used to love Hannah, didn't he?"

"He never loved her! If not for Grandpa's engagement, they never would have dated! You're the only one he loves," Martina lied convincingly.

"Don't you think he's interested in my family's power?" Sarah quipped.

Martina, surprised by Sarah's perceptiveness, quickly explained, "Sarah, you know Charles is kind to you. You know the answer better than anyone."

Sarah seemed satisfied. "Of course, I know he loves me."

"Don't doubt his obsession. He's busy tonight, but he asked me to take care of you. Look at his messages!" Martina showed fabricated messages. Sarah, pleased, took a few glances. Martina sneered inwardly. What a fool.

Suddenly, they noticed a woman walking past. Martina glanced instinctively. Attractive women naturally attract attention, often sparking rivalry among other women. Upon recognizing the woman, Martina's face fell. It was Hannah, looking remarkably stylish.