Chapter 204: Almost a Misunderstanding

Elena thought it over and decided to keep her outrageous thoughts to herself. She didn't want to dwell on it further when she returned home. "Yeah, I mean, you're my best friend. How could you ever set your sights on a guy like that? So why were you so excited? You've got to tell me, or I'll keep asking." To avoid letting Elena's mind wander down improper paths, Martina did her best to clarify the situation. "It's because Benjamin's grandfather is returning. You must be aware that it has always been Jack who has been exceptionally kind to me. His kindness is unwavering, supporting me unconditionally regardless of the time or place." "Now that I've heard that Jack is returning, my heart naturally feels excited. It's just that simple. It's not as complicated as you think," Martina shrugged. Elena had a belated realization and found her earlier thoughts rather absurd. She couldn't believe she had voiced such ideas. It was almost laughable. "Oh, I see. I thought it was because of Paloma that your mood was affected. I even said I might need to take you to get your head examined if that were the case!" Martina was completely at a loss for words regarding Elena's statements. It seemed that Elena wasn't going to continue with those topics. Otherwise, she would be definitely like a fool. "So, I'm planning to take a day off tomorrow. Jack said he wants me to go with Benjamin to pick him up, and I can't refuse that," Martina said. "So, the company stuff might have to be on your shoulders for a bit. But don't worry, when I come back the day after tomorrow, we'll work hard together!" Elena waved her hand casually. "It's not a big deal. I can handle the work even if you're not here. The studio got started because of me alone. You can go pick up Jack first. Honestly, he's been really good to you and treats you like a granddaughter. You can't disappoint his kindness, or someone will talk behind your back." Martina was well aware of this too, and that's why she was willing to go meet him. Otherwise, she wouldn't have gone through all this trouble. "Of course, Elena. Thanks for your hard work. You handle things for the next couple of days, and when I return, I'll take over for you." The end of the workday was approaching. Martina gathered her belongings and left for home without any delay, but not before discussing her concerns with Elena. "If there's anything you're uncertain about, feel free to leave it for me to manage when I return. I don't mind putting in some additional hours." "Martina, do I really appear that untrustworthy in your eyes? You can rest assured; I've got this under control." Elena expressed her discontent with a slight pout. "I'm completely serious." That's not what Martina meant. It was just a precaution, to be safe rather than sorry. Who knew what kind of unexpected issues might arise in the future? These things were truly unpredictable. After work, Martina, under Leslie's guidance, headed straight home. Knowing that Jack would return tomorrow, she sensed a notably more relaxed atmosphere at home today. Elizabeth was sitting on the couch, watching TV. When she saw Martina return with a cheerful stride, even humming a tune, she became somewhat uneasy and curious. The more Elizabeth thought about it, the more it seemed off. Normally, Martina returned home looking quite dejected. So, why was she suddenly so happy today? Could this girl have some ulterior motives since she looked so strange? The possibility crossed Elizabeth's mind, and she immediately questioned Martina without any courtesy, "What's going on with you today? Why do you seem so cheerful? Is something about to happen?" In reality, that was precisely the case. However, judging from Elizabeth's behavior, it appeared she had no knowledge of Jack's return tomorrow. Martina's relationship with Elizabeth was never strong to begin with, so there was no point in kindly informing her of the situation. That would be unnecessary. "It's none of your business," Martina blurted out. "Do I have to come home looking gloomy every day for you to be happy? If you really want to see that, I don't mind. I can start crying for you right now!" Since Martina had been personally brought home by Benjamin this time, many things had changed, just like the situation at hand. No matter how much Elizabeth resisted, it had no effect, and it was impossible for her to achieve the desired outcome. Elizabeth's face turned pale from anger, but she had not let it affect her mood completely. At most, she was a bit irritated. She snorted, "What an arrogant woman. I think you're just too spoiled because of the favoritism you receive. Unfortunately, men's favor comes and goes quickly. How long do you think you can hold onto it?" Martina remained unfazed. "No matter how long it lasts, it's better than nothing. Regardless of what you say, I was brought back by Benjamin himself. Kick me out if you dare." Elizabeth gritted her teeth with anger. Martina was becoming more and more stubborn. Didn't she understand the concept of courtesy? Martina chose not to engage in any further conversation and simply returned to her bedroom to keep herself away from Elizabeth. Conversations with Elizabeth were a real headache. They could escalate into an argument at any moment. Martina didn't want to stir up any more trouble; it was just too exhausting. Whenever she encountered Elizabeth, there was never any good outcome. She had long since figured out this pattern and preferred to keep her distance. Elizabeth was left on the couch, and her anger nearly caused her to throw her newly acquired items all over the place. If it weren't for the presence of the butler taking care of things, the consequences could have been disastrous. "Don't be angry, madam. I believe Miss Martinez really has prior knowledge of something. Otherwise, she wouldn't act like this. Maybe we should ask her to find out," the butler suggested. The butler seemed to have a good understanding of Martina. Otherwise, he wouldn't have said that. Martina's current behavior hinted at something significant, and the butler believed this matter might be more important than it appeared. If Elizabeth hadn't known in advance, it would mean they had missed an opportunity!