Chapter 630: Give Up
Susan and Henry returned to Phillips Bank, both silent. Henry, beside her, remained unobtrusive, as if understanding her mood. They reached the building and Susan exited the car. Henry took her hand; she paused momentarily but didn't resist. Hand in hand, they entered the bank. Susan watched the elevator ascend to their floor, then stood motionless inside, unresponsive until Henry gently indicated their arrival. She stepped out.
Callie rushed to greet Susan, attempting a playful joke, but faltered upon seeing Henry's hand in Susan's. Confused, Callie had assumed Susan and Manuel were a couple, and her embarrassment rendered her speechless. Susan, seemingly oblivious, went directly to her desk and began packing her belongings. Henry assisted, though his single hand hampered his efficiency.
After a time, Callie hesitantly asked, "Miss Phillips, did you resign?"
It seemed absurd; after all, it was her father's company.
"No," Susan replied, "I changed my position."
"So soon?" Callie exclaimed, surprised.
Susan's expression was cold. Callie began, "But you and Mr. Johnson...", but Henry's cold gaze silenced her.
Callie returned to her desk, stealing occasional glances at Susan. The news was difficult to accept, particularly considering Manuel's cheerful demeanor that morning.
Finally, Susan finished packing, gazing at her empty desk with a sense of loss. For the first time, she felt nostalgic for her position, despite having constantly complained about it. She had never been late, always worked overtime, and had genuinely intended to work hard. She wondered if her attachment was to the work itself, or to someone. She looked at the closed office door, uncertain of Manuel's reaction to her sudden change. His phone call had been devoid of comment, leaving her unsure how to face him.
"Susan," Henry said, taking her hand.
She looked at him.
"Let's go," he said.
She felt they should simply leave it.
As they were departing, the office door opened. Susan's heart pounded. She saw Manuel, seemingly unchanged yet subtly different; still dignified, but today's khaki windbreaker lent him a more fashionable and handsome air.
"Mr. Johnson," Callie approached, fearing Manuel's embarrassment.
"Henry, come to my office," Manuel said, turning and entering his office without looking at Susan.
A deep ache settled in Susan's heart. Manuel had given up on her as easily as she'd expected, and perhaps hoped, he would.
"Susan, wait for me. I'll be out in a minute," Henry whispered.
Susan nodded, afraid to speak lest she break down.
Henry entered Manuel's office and closed the door. Manuel sat coldly regarding Henry, who stood stiffly before him.
"How did you lie to get Susan?" Manuel demanded.
Henry was taken aback. "I didn't lie. Susan simply couldn't let go of me. She developed feelings for you, yes, but not love, only novelty. Once that fades, her interest will wane."
"Susan isn't that kind of person," Manuel countered firmly. He believed her love was pure and faithful, a quality at odds with her outward appearance.
"If she isn't, she chose me in the end. Regardless of how it happened, she returned to me. I hope you haven't abused your power to win her affection."
Manuel remained impassive, his expression unreadable despite Henry's pointed provocation.
"Don't worry. Since Susan chose you, it's her decision. What methods you used is between you. I only want to ensure your desire for Susan is genuine."
Henry's expression shifted subtly, sensing a veiled warning. Manuel's love for Susan was evident, as was Susan's status as the sole heir to Phillips Bank. A union with Susan would bring him the bank as well.
Henry's mind raced, analyzing Manuel's motives. Manuel understood Henry's suspicion, yet he wasn't lying this time. He would relinquish Susan, given her choice of Henry. Perhaps it was disappointment, or perhaps he had simply grown accustomed to it.