Chapter 231: The Portrait Was Unmistakably Her

The portrait was unmistakably her. Sienna started to speak. “Noah, what if we don’t—” Before she could finish, Noah chirped, “I’ll handle it right now, Mommy! See you soon!” He dashed off on his little legs. Sienna sighed. That boy… It didn’t matter. No one had visited her at the estate since she moved in. Noah mentioned his grandparents didn’t like him. They probably wouldn’t come.

She refocused. Preparations for the Starlight Gala tonight demanded attention. Though it was ten hours away, her gown required a perfect hairstyle. Matching accessories and shoes were essential. She wanted to honor Mr. Ashford’s effort. After breakfast, Evelyn approached her with a box. “Ms. Bennett, Mr. Harrington assigned me to style you today.” Sienna had avoided Lucas since the morning incident. His thoughtfulness surprised her. Evelyn was Lucas’s top assistant. She specialized in serving elite clients, including styling. Her work was impeccable. Sienna sat before the mirror. “Thank you.” Evelyn began styling her hair.

Soon, Sienna’s phone lit up on the desk. The caller ID showed ‘Mom.’ It was Helena. She was calling. Though Helena never acted like a mother, and Sienna didn’t see her as one, she kept the contact name to maintain her cover. Sienna answered flatly. “Yes?”

“Sienna, where are you staying? I went to Willowcrest Estate and you weren’t there.” Helena’s tone was unusually gentle.

After talking with her husband Philip, Helena had searched for Sienna. She couldn’t find her. Sienna’s eyes flickered. She gave a vague excuse. “Another property. Contact me if you need me.”

“Nothing urgent. I wanted to ask if you’d like to live with us? You’re a Bennett. Living alone isn’t proper,” Helena said.

Sienna didn’t expect an invitation. She remembered how Helena and Philip had bodyguards escort her away on her first day back. Contempt flashed in her eyes. “I apologize, but I don’t plan to return. As my mother, you know how everyone despises an adopted daughter. To avoid conflict, I prefer living alone.”

Helena sighed. Even if she and Philip accepted Sienna, others might not. After a pause, she continued. “Sienna, can I ask a favor? The Bennetts have connections with the Starlight Gala organizers. You’ll win awards tonight. Could you say something kind about your sister during interviews? Please don’t criticize her further…” Sienna’s eyes dulled. So this was the real reason for the call. Vanessa committed terrible acts, yet Helena still defended her? Connections? Sienna could win awards without Bennett connections.

Sensing her displeasure, Helena sighed. “I know Vanessa made bad choices. She’s unforgivable. As punishment, I transferred her five-percent shares to your father. She’s also badly injured and still in a coma. She’s suffered enough… I hope you can forgive her a little.” Sienna frowned. They actually took five percent of her shares? Vanessa would be furious! With only five percent left, she had little influence in the family. What could she do now? Sienna’s lips curved slightly. “I’ll say a few words to the media. Under one condition.”

“What condition?” Helena asked immediately.