Chapter 134: The Courthouse Was Surrounded by a Massive Crowd

The courthouse was surrounded by a massive crowd before dawn even broke. Clustered nearest the iron gates stood eleven supermodels, all waiting for their settlement checks. They were also there to witness Sienna Bennett's sentencing with their own eyes. Vanessa Bennett stood among them, clutching Tessa Morgan's hand. The Bennett family lawyer, Atticus Prescott, followed close behind them. They were fully prepared to force Sienna to sign the share transfer documents. Vanessa secretly texted Derek Prescott, her heart swelling with triumph.

(Derek my love, you can rest easy now. After today, those shares belong to us. You won't have to endure the humiliation of courting my sister any longer.) Derek was currently lounging on his sofa, swirling a glass of red wine. His television was tuned to a live stream hosted by a popular internet celebrity. A nagging doubt plagued him. 'With Lucas Harrington's immense power and resources, would he truly allow Sienna to be imprisoned?'

'But how could even he save her now? The evidence against her is overwhelming. She has completely sealed her own fate.'

'To think Sienna was capable of such a vicious act. She dug her own grave. Who would want her after she gets out of prison in a few years?'

'I can't wait to see her arrogance finally shattered. Vanessa is truly the kind and gentle one,' he mused.

He quickly typed a reply.

[My little angel, this is the final day. Ensure there are no mistakes. I will reward you handsomely tonight once our plan succeeds.]

Vanessa read the message, a blissful smile gracing her lips. Reporters suddenly swarmed her, shoving microphones in her face.

"Ms. Vanessa, as Sienna's sister, what are your thoughts today? Do you have a message for the public?"

She hastily pocketed her phone, adopting a sorrowful expression.

"Even now, I find it hard to believe my sister is capable of such actions. I feel this must be a terrible misunderstanding."

"Perhaps the court will prove her innocence today! I will hold onto hope until the very last moment."

The crowd was moved by her words, gazing at her with admiration and respect. Vanessa truly embodied the nation's sweetheart, her heart seemingly pure and compassionate. Dozens of internet celebrities and influencers had also arrived, capitalizing on the event. They were all conducting live broadcasts, hyping up the spectacle for their audiences. In a nearby secluded alley, a sleek black Maybach sat idling. Lucas Harrington and Noah were in the back seat, while Sebastian was behind the wheel. Noah fidgeted nervously with a toy in his hands.

"Daddy! All the top streamers are here. Thirty-nine of them are live right now."

"The main broadcast channel already has over forty-three million viewers!"

Forty-three million. The number echoed in Lucas's mind. That was equivalent to the viewership of major New Year's Eve specials. A single misstep today would haunt her forever in the public eye. He frowned, his voice tense. "Sebastian, any update on Owen Parker's movements? Are his preparations secure?"

"Owen..." Sebastian sighed heavily. "He's been completely absorbed with his new agency, Crownlight Entertainment."

"He's been negotiating contracts for new artists all week. It doesn't appear he plans to come today."

Lucas's frown deepened. 'So Owen isn't the one assisting her? Perhaps it's Harrison Vale? But Harrison is preoccupied with other matters.' Despite Sienna's assurances, a deep unease settled in his gut.

"Prepare all necessary contingencies. Be ready to adapt to any situation immediately!" he ordered sharply.

"Understood!" Sebastian and Noah responded in unison. Sebastian gave a firm nod.

Noah's clear, childish voice rang with determination. As the appointed hour approached, footsteps finally echoed from the end of the passageway.

"She's here! She's here!" a voice shouted loudly.

Instantly, every head turned toward the sound. All eyes focused on the approaching figure.