Chapter 400: The Bankrupt Factory

Vanessa knew most wedding guests despised her. She could tolerate their hidden contempt as long as they maintained surface politeness. Once she and Derek were officially married, she would become Mrs. Prescott. Wife of the president of Prescott Industries! That wretched Logan had to openly voice such cutting remarks. His harsh words stabbed at her pride relentlessly. Seeing Vanessa's eyes welling up, Helena quickly grasped her hand.

She shot Logan a furious glare. "What right do you have to judge her? Everyone makes mistakes. She's acknowledged hers and vowed to change. Why must you dredge up the past?"

"Exactly! You call my son heartless, but do you know how hard he tried to win Sienna back? She's the one who rejected him repeatedly! She probably spread those vile rumors online herself!"

Though Madam Prescott scolded Logan, her accusing gaze remained fixed on Sienna. Anyone would assume Sienna orchestrated the rumors out of spite. The implication made Sienna's blood boil. Did they truly believe she had nothing better to do? Derek had threatened her via text. Now Madam Prescott publicly shamed her. What made them think she cared enough to sabotage their wedding? Before she could respond, Philip chastised Logan. "Stop causing trouble! This is your cousin's wedding day. You've achieved nothing yourself. Look in the mirror before criticizing others!"

Everyone in Kingsport knew Logan was a worthless playboy. His arrogance had landed his parents in the hospital. He'd been rightfully disowned by the Carlisle family. A flicker of malice crossed Vanessa's eyes before she adopted a wounded expression.

"Please don't scold Logan. He means well. Perhaps we were wrong to make this wedding so extravagant. I don't deserve such a grand celebration..."

She dabbed at fake tears with her delicate fingers. Her performance successfully manipulated the crowd. Helena patted her hand comfortingly. "Nonsense! Even ex-convicts deserve second chances. Your past mistakes don't define you. Don't overthink it."

"But Logan is right. We should scale back the festivities." Vanessa turned to Logan with feigned gratitude. "Thank you for your advice. I agree completely. However... as you see, all the guests are here. Everything is prepared. We can't cancel now. If you had concerns, you should have voiced them earlier. I would have listened."

Her words subtly implied he was too late to object. Logan nearly exploded at her blatant hypocrisy. Vanessa continued her act of false benevolence. "Regardless, I appreciate your concern. If you need anything—career opportunities, housing assistance—please let me know. I'll help however I can." She deliberately highlighted his unemployment and homelessness. Helena glared disapprovingly. "Vanessa, don't be foolish! He was disowned for being useless! Why help someone who just insulted you?"

"Exactly! He's twenty-five and still mooches off friends daily! Any money given to him would be wasted! And after his rudeness! Your kindness is misplaced!" Philip added angrily.

Vanessa shook her head meekly. "Please don't say that. I'm sure Logan has hidden talents. How about this: you gave me a factory for my birthday last year. Let Logan manage it. We can guide him through the process. Family should support each other." She sounded impeccably gracious and considerate. No one knew the factory was already bankrupt and drowning in debt.