Chapter 197: Helena's Voice Was Sharp

“It’s because I love him, Mother,” Vanessa said softly. “That’s why his happiness matters more than anything. His heart belongs to Sienna. Forcing him to stay with me would only bring him pain… and turn his love for me into resentment. Their bond was written long before I ever came into the picture. I was always the outsider.”

“Don’t you dare say that! Don’t you ever speak of yourself that way!” Helena’s voice was sharp, protective. “Derek is the one who’s blind—chasing after Sienna when he was promised to you! Your father warned him, but that arrogant man never listens!”

Even if he had reasons to leave Sienna all those years ago, that gave him no right to discard her daughter. Not when Vanessa had given him her heart. Vanessa shook her head, her expression pained but resolved. “You misunderstand him, Mother. I was the one who ended things. I’ve had time to think… to realize what I’ve done.”

She took a shaky breath. “What I did to Sienna… it was monstrous. Back then, no one stood by her. No one but Derek. I may have lost him, but I still have you and Father. That’s why… I want to step aside. Let her have him. Maybe then… this guilt will hurt a little less.” Her words were gentle, self-sacrificing. Helena’s heart ached with pride and sorrow.

“Oh, my dear girl… Having a daughter as kind as you is a blessing. I will find you a husband worthy of you—someone far better than Derek Prescott.”

“Thank you, Mother.”

That same evening, Helena commented publicly on Sienna’s post:

[If you truly wish to rekindle what was lost, your sister has graciously consented. It’s clear you and Derek share a history that cannot be ignored.]

At the same time, a private message from Henry Bennett arrived in Sienna’s inbox:

[I believe you and Derek should set a date for the wedding celebration.]

Meanwhile, inside the Harrington Estate, Sienna was guiding Noah through a series of yoga poses. The practice was meant to soothe his nerves, to bring calm to a mind often clouded by illness.

Nearby, Lucas noticed Sienna’s phone light up. His eyes flickered over the screen—first Helena’s comment, then Henry’s message. Even Derek had texted her:

[Sienna, your family has given their blessing. Have I proven myself these past weeks? There are only fifteen days left. If you agree, I will begin arranging our wedding.]

Lucas knew this was all part of her plan—a carefully laid trap for her prey. But knowing didn’t stop the hot coil of jealousy tightening in his chest. Derek’s relentless pursuit, the gifts, the pressure from her family… Was he really discussing wedding plans? His gaze shifted, dark and displeased, toward Noah. The boy, seated cross-legged on his mat with headphones on, sensed his father’s mood instantly. He clutched his stomach dramatically.

“Oww… Mommy, my tummy hurts! I need the bathroom—I’ll be right back!” He scrambled up and bolted from the room before Sienna could respond.

She smiled faintly, assuming he was just avoiding the session. She resumed her pose. There was much to prepare for—not just the impending confrontation, but the upcoming Night of Glory. She intended to sweep every major award that night, to leave Vanessa seething with helpless envy. Balancing on one leg, Sienna extended the other high behind her, her body forming a clean, elegant line. The dancer’s pose required focus, strength, and grace—a perfect metaphor for her current life. But she hadn’t practiced this particular pose in too long. Her core wavered. Her balance broke.

She started to tilt, bracing for the fall. Then a pair of strong hands caught her firmly around the waist.