Chapter 241: Derek Approached Sienna Bennett

Just as anticipated, Derek approached Sienna Bennett. His gaze appeared filled with admiration. He had meticulously evaluated his circumstances over recent days. The Prescott family stocks had plummeted drastically. Members of the Bennett family began opposing his leadership. Sienna represented his final opportunity for redemption. Her breathtaking beauty certainly influenced his decision. Marrying her would only benefit his position. As for Vanessa Bennett… Derek had alternate arrangements.

"My dearest Sienna," he began, voice dripping with false sincerity.

"I deeply regret my past mistakes."

"I pledge to devote my entire life making amends."

"Please grant me another opportunity."

Each word sounded carefully rehearsed. He finished speaking and dropped to one knee. The bouquet of red roses extended toward her. A velvet jewelry box rested among the blossoms.

Inside sparkled an enormous engagement ring.

The audience erupted into chaotic excitement.

"This is unbelievably romantic!"

"Derek Prescott proposing at such a prestigious event!"

"Vanessa seduced him originally. Any man would struggle resisting her advances."

"Besides, everyone makes mistakes. What matters is he learned his lesson."

"Sienna, accept him! You're perfect for each other!"

"Say yes! Say yes! Say yes!"

The chant started with one person then spread like wildfire. Soon the entire venue echoed with thunderous demands. Sienna prepared to reject him immediately. Then her eyes caught something hidden within the roses. A photograph nestled among the thorns. It showed her lying on an operating table. Her pregnant belly swollen beneath surgical lights. Derek deliberately brought this photograph. His gaze remained steady, lips curling triumphantly.

"Sienna, please accept my proposal."

His tone sounded pleading but carried hidden menace. Only they understood the unspoken threat. Her face drained of all color. He blackmailed her with this incriminating evidence. Rejecting him meant he would expose the photograph. She had buried those painful memories years ago. Forced herself to forget that traumatic period. Now it resurfaced as leverage against her. If this photograph became public knowledge… The entire world would learn her secret. Everyone would know she once carried a child. No matter how strong she appeared… She could not endure such humiliation publicly.

Noah probably watched this broadcast. What would her son think discovering this truth? Would his illness relapse from the shock? And Lucas… Her mind swirled with chaotic emotions.

Meanwhile, Vanessa watched from her hospital room.

Her fists clenched until knuckles turned white. The IV needle tore from her skin. Fresh blood trickled down her arm. How could this happen? Derek proposing to Sienna?! She loved him since their childhood days. He struggled financially back then. She never doubted his potential. Her scheming served dual purposes. Securing Bennett inheritance benefited them both. Becoming the legitimate heiress… Acquiring family shares… Marrying Derek… Solidifying his status… Building their perfect life together… Now he knelt before Sienna. He discarded her completely. Not one hospital visit since her admission. Suddenly proposing to her rival!

Back at the Starlight Gala, Derek remained kneeling.

His handsome features radiate confident expectation. Sienna's eyes glazed with dull realization. Must she accept him? Was surrender her only option? Accepting publicly meant binding herself to him permanently.