Justine’s Kindness

“It’s the same,” Justine said. Manuel remained silent, his lips tight. Justine smiled slightly at her son. She’d invited Manuel and Susan to dinner to tell Manuel she wouldn’t interfere in their relationship, hinting at her acceptance. But Manuel and Susan seemed distant, Susan particularly indifferent. Justine was unsure if they could reconcile, but her son’s demeanor suggested a possible rekindling.

“No, no, no. It’s different,” Susan replied quickly. She wouldn’t start a family with Manuel; how could their children be the same? She guessed Justine meant she could manage two children. Justine looked askance at Susan, wishing she possessed Hannah’s shrewdness. Before Justine could clarify, Manuel interrupted, “Mum.”

Justine looked at her son.

“Have more. You must be tired lately, caring for Edward,” Manuel said coolly.

Justine pressed her lips together. She’d previously disapproved of their relationship, but Susan had changed, altering Justine’s opinion.

“Thank you for taking care of my dad,” Susan said quickly. “Let me propose a toast.” Raising her glass of red wine, she toasted Justine, who accepted the gesture. After finishing her wine, Susan felt a mix of emotions. She’d become afraid of Manuel; even a glimpse unnerved her. Gathering her courage, she raised her glass again. “President, a toast to you.”

Manuel ate his steak gracefully. Susan continued, “I know I’m not clever. I always cause trouble, making you dissatisfied with my work. Thank you for your patience. I’m grateful to work at Phillips Bank. Words can’t express my gratitude. Let me propose another toast. I will work harder.”

Manuel’s gaze lingered, slightly frightening Susan. Feeling intensely nervous, she wondered if she’d misspoken. Manuel said lightly, “I don’t drink.”

Susan was mortified. She knew he was a light weight, but a sip wouldn't intoxicate him. Feeling foolish, she smiled wryly. “Okay, I see. Then help yourself to more steak. I’ll drink the wine.”

She drained her glass. Unseen by Susan, Manuel had laid down his knife and fork, reaching for lemonade. He stopped, seeing Susan finish her wine. Justine watched their interaction with growing unease.

After dinner, they left the restaurant together. “What are you going to do?” Justine asked Susan.

“Go home,” Susan replied. “I’ll drive myself. Don’t worry.”

Justine started to nod, but Manuel interjected, “You drank wine.”

Susan paused, then said coldly, “Just a glass. I’m not drunk. I could pass a sobriety test.”

“Are you sure?” Manuel asked. Susan wasn’t.

“What if you’re arrested for drunk driving? Will you ask me for help?” Susan didn’t understand his behavior, his sharp words, his constant criticisms that disregarded her self-respect.

“I’ll drive you home,” Manuel said abruptly. The unexpected offer surprised and pleased her. Did I hear that right? He’s going to drive me home? Is he kidding?

“We’re on our way,” he said, entering his limousine, which a parking attendant had brought around.

Glancing at the limousine and Justine, Susan approached slowly, intending to sit in the back.

“Sit in the passenger seat,” Justine said sharply.

Susan hesitated.

“I’m not sitting in the passenger seat; it’s usually for the bodyguard,” Justine’s eyebrows rose.

Susan was speechless. She regretted showing her gratitude to Justine; she’d angered her again. Reluctantly, she sat in the passenger seat, avoiding Manuel's gaze to prevent further conflict. She felt perpetually embarrassed around him. Fortunately, he remained silent, driving his mother home first.

Knowing Justine lived alone, Susan blurted, “Would you like to live at Phillips Manor with me?” She lived in a spacious villa, alone with her staff, and had often considered inviting Justine, but found it difficult to say.

“No,” Justine refused, as Susan expected.

“Let’s talk about it next month. I don’t want to move this month,” Justine added.

Susan looked at her. “Do you mean you’ll move to Phillips Manor next month?” She was excited.

Justine, though sometimes frustrated by Susan's perceived lack of success, admired her innocence and unspoiled nature. She couldn’t refuse this time. “Yes,” she said.

“Early next month, I’ll have the staff move your things and prepare a room.” Susan was positive.

“Okay,” Justine nodded. Susan was thrilled; her father would be overjoyed to see his wife upon waking. He loved Justine dearly. But when would Edward regain consciousness? She concealed her emotions, appearing calm.

Once Justine arrived home, Manuel began driving Susan. If Manuel doesn't move, we're not going the same way, Susan thought, but refrained from asking, lacking the desire for an answer. Alone with him, her nervousness intensified, her heart racing. She closed her eyes, feigning sleep to appear composed. Manuel began to speak, but seeing her closed eyes, fell silent.

The car was quiet. Manuel drove to Phillips Manor.