Chapter 730: Elevator Horror (1)

Susan, speaking with aplomb, didn't notice the glint of malice in Henry's eyes. He'd assumed Edward would reappoint him in Manuel's absence, not expecting Manuel's sudden return after such a long wait. Ultimately, Edward gave all his power to Manuel. Yet, Henry maintained a facade of cordiality before Susan.

"That's good. Now that your father's not in charge, you won't be forced to do that!" Henry smiled.

"That's what I should think about," Susan nodded.

"Where did you go this morning?" Henry asked.

"I went to see Hannah. She's pregnant and not feeling well. I should spend more time with her."

"Speaking of Hannah, I'm reminded of Oscar. He's quite prominent in Northfield now. I hear he'll be the sole heir to the royal Wells family, ruling Northfield once more," Henry said.

"Yes. My best friend will become the First Lady, Northfield's noblest woman. It's exciting," Susan replied.

"I didn't expect the unassuming Oscar to hold such a significant position."

"He's outstanding!" Susan retorted. "Oscar's appearance misled us all. He's not a playboy; he's a capable man who cherishes Hannah deeply. He's far superior to Charles Sawyer. Luckily, Hannah had discerning eyes back then."

"Yes," Henry agreed, wary of provoking Oscar and Hannah.

Susan spoke of them at length, then abruptly fell silent.

"What's wrong?" Henry asked.

She considered Hannah's advice to make a clean break, but hesitated, looking at the caring man before her.

"You were so happy a moment ago. Why are you upset now? Uncomfortable?" Henry worried.

Susan shook her head. "Just thinking about work; it's upsetting."

"Don't worry. If there's anything you don't want to do, leave it to me."

"No. You're busy too. I'll focus on the work."

"Well, let's have dinner tonight."

"I want to visit Hannah this evening. Now that Oscar's busy in the capital, I want to spend more time with her."

"That's true," Henry said thoughtfully. "You haven't seen each other in so long. You must miss each other very much. We see each other every day; we can have dinner anytime."

"Uh-huh."

Henry left with a smile, which vanished the moment he left Susan's office. Back in his own office, the reality struck him: without Manuel's departure, he'd never take over Phillips Bank. He couldn't compare to Manuel's ability, and Edward clearly favored Manuel. Henry even feared that Manuel's continued presence would eventually cost him Susan.

In that moment, Henry resolved to act on a long-held plan. He made a phone call.

"Tonight, I'll arrange it."

"Yes."

After hanging up, a cruel smile spread across his face.

Manuel, back at work, toiled long hours. Despite Edward's personal involvement, much remained disorganized. Perhaps Edward's age, or a period of comfortable inactivity, hindered his ability to adapt to the pressure. Manuel spent considerable time rectifying the situation.

Finally, after a long stretch, Manuel saved his file, closed his computer, and prepared to go home. As he opened his office door, Susan appeared.

"What's the matter?"

It was 10 p.m.; even the late-working staff had left.

"This is my handover form," Susan said, handing him a document. "You may think it's unnecessary, but I need to organize my work. I don't like being constantly questioned."

Manuel took the document without looking and placed it on his desk before leaving.

Susan glanced at the document, pursed her lips, and followed Manuel into the elevator. It was late; they were alone. The silence was broken only by the elevator's mechanical hum. Manuel watched the floor numbers; Susan looked away.

"If you have time, please spend more time with Hannah," Manuel said abruptly.

Susan was startled by his sudden concern.

"Oscar's not there. She'll be lonely at home, especially pregnant."

"When did you become so concerned about her?"

Manuel remained silent.

"Are you interested in Hannah?" Susan blurted.

Manuel remained silent.

Susan, feeling it unlikely, pursed her lips. "Well, I'll visit her when I'm free." She'd planned to visit tonight, but someone clearly hadn't appreciated her efforts. Silence fell again. They kept their distance, both watching the changing floor numbers.

Suddenly, the elevator lurched. Susan cried out in fright. Before they could react, the elevator rocked again, the lights dimming with each sway. Susan screamed; the sudden darkness and shaking were terrifying.

Manuel, realizing something was wrong, frantically pressed all the floor buttons, gripping the handrails and squatting to maintain his balance.

"Come here!" he called.

Susan panicked.

"Susan, come here to me!"

She managed to compose herself. As she reached Manuel, the elevator lurched violently.

"Ah!"

With a sickening lurch, it plunged downwards, Susan falling into Manuel's arms as his hands protectively shielded her head.