Chapter 176: The Afternoon Sun Made Her Eyelids Heavy

The afternoon sun made her eyelids heavy. Sienna decided to rest after the film crew departed. She had checked into Grand Meridian Hotel with a purpose—to uncover the truth about that night.

Five years ago, her plan was straightforward.

She intended to have Vanessa imprisoned for poisoning them, letting the authorities handle it. She believed Vanessa would confess to avoid public disgrace and total ruin. But things spiraled out of control. Tessa’s unexpected loyalty shocked her. Tessa took full responsibility for Vanessa’s crimes. Now, Vanessa would never confess to save Tessa. Sienna knew only one man could prove her innocence. Vanessa must have hidden him well. She needed to find him through her own means. Someone at this hotel five years ago must know his identity.

“Sister…” a soft voice called from behind.

Sienna turned to see Vanessa in a white dress. She ignored her, but Vanessa approached anyway.

“It was all my fault back then,” Vanessa said, feigning remorse. “I must have been insane. Or truly evil. I’m here to apologize. Look, I brought your childhood favorite—matcha cake.”

A cold shiver ran down Sienna’s spine. Her favorite had always been strawberry cake. Not matcha. When they were children, their birthdays featured two cakes. One was always matcha-flavored. Made from expensive, finely ground green tea leaves. Each slice cost a fortune. Vanessa, the wolf in sheep’s clothing, always shared it with Sienna. She did it to earn praise for her generosity. If Sienna refused, she was called ungrateful. As the adopted daughter, she had no voice. She learned to accept it. So everyone believed she loved matcha cake.

Vanessa had stolen her voice since childhood.

“You think this cake makes up for everything?” Sienna’s voice was icy.

“It’s from Yukkuri. Their matcha cake is famous. Please, try it…” Vanessa said sweetly.

Sienna laughed, a sharp, mocking sound.

“Really, Vanessa? You apologize with a cake? Is that all you’re worth?”

Vanessa stiffened, caught off guard. She wanted to scream, but she held back. She glanced subtly toward Penelope, who was hiding nearby.

“I’m sorry, sister. I just want to make things right. It’s not about the price. Please accept my apology. You must be tired. Here, have some.”

As she offered the cake, Vanessa tried to flick pollen from her hand onto Sienna.