Chapter 888: Girlfriend's Benefits

Clara attempted to take Susan's place pushing Manuel's wheelchair, but Susan forcefully shoved her aside. Clara stumbled backward, nearly falling. Enraged, she glared at Susan.

"It's very kind of you, Miss Clara, but Mr. Johnson wants no one else to push his wheelchair," Susan said arrogantly.

Clara seethed, wondering what had changed in the past four months to make Susan so confident. She vowed to prevent Susan from winning. Instantly changing tactics, she adopted a tender, fragile demeanor.

"I'm Mr. Johnson's secretary; I should do my job. I apologize for overstepping, Miss Philips."

Affecting a wronged expression, Clara played on Manuel's known sympathy. She awaited his intervention.

"Keep yourself in line, now that you know you've overstepped," Susan retorted.

Clara stared at Manuel, who remained silent. She gritted her teeth, suppressing her anger. Susan then wheeled Manuel into his office and helped him settle into his chair.

Clara watched them, their intimacy striking her. Had they rekindled their relationship? She had sacrificed a promising career at City Hall for Manuel, only to be replaced by Susan. She fought back her rage as they openly displayed affection.

"Clara," Manuel finally spoke.

Clara forced a smile. Susan rolled her eyes, her contempt for Clara's performance evident.

"Yes, Mr. Johnson," Clara replied respectfully.

"From now on, you'll work in the General Affairs Department. You're capable, possess excellent interpersonal skills, and are suited for human resources," Manuel announced.

"Mr. Johnson..." Clara was incredulous.

"I've arranged it. You'll be a supervisor. See your new boss with any questions," he said coldly.

"Can I stay and work for you?" Clara pleaded; the job was inconsequential compared to her feelings for Manuel.

"No," he rejected her immediately.

Tears welled in Clara's eyes. "What have I done wrong? Why do you want me to go?" she cried.

Manuel responded ruthlessly, "Clara, this is a company, not the entertainment industry. Transfers are common. Speak to HR if you have questions. I'm busy."

Stunned by his coldness, Clara realized Manuel didn't love her, though he'd previously avoided hurting her father. This time, he'd given her no leeway. She resolved to endure this setback to preserve her larger plan.

Wiping her tears, she said, "Okay, Mr. Johnson. I'll register with General Affairs."

Manuel remained oblivious. Susan, overjoyed at Clara's humiliation, reveled in her victory. Clara, noticing Susan's triumphant smile as she left, felt deeply mortified.

Susan continued celebrating in Manuel's office until he abruptly interrupted.

"What are you doing here? Return to your office and work. Sort out the past four months' backlog, create a new work plan, and report back by 5 PM."

Susan, still simmering, was about to leave when she impulsively returned and kissed Manuel passionately. He froze.

"Girlfriend's benefit!" Susan declared smugly.

"I didn't say you're my girlfriend," Manuel countered coldly.

"You got rid of that bitch for me," Susan pointed out.

"I did it for myself. I don't want dishonest people around me."

"You're the dishonest one," Susan retorted.

Manuel remained impassive.

"You enjoyed my kiss, but pretended disgust! I bet you'd have used your tongue if I'd kissed you longer," Susan teased.

"Susan!" Manuel thundered.

Susan quickly left, noting his hot temper. Manuel, finding himself unusually affected by Susan, struggled to regain his composure. He unconsciously licked his lips, his face flushed.

Meanwhile, at the Cooper Manor, Hannah received a call from Oscar.

"Hannah, I can't see you lately," Oscar said, despite his earlier promise.

"It's okay. I understand you're busy. Salem and I are fine. I took him for a checkup today; the doctor says he's healthy. Don't worry."

"It's Lillian's due date," Oscar explained.

Hannah realized Lillian's labor was imminent.

"I'll stay with her in the hospital," Oscar added.

"I understand," Hannah replied, accepting his absence.