Chapter 371: Letting the Silence Hang

“I don’t care if the Prescotts despise me,” Vanessa began. “And I don’t care what anyone else thinks of me either. But I’m terrified—terrified this wedding won’t happen. Caleb, you know I’ve left modeling. I have nothing left except Derek and this baby.”

She paused, letting the silence hang.

“But Sienna… she despises me. She won’t just let me be. Of course, it’s just a suspicion… I worry she still has feelings for Derek. I’m afraid she might try to hurt me.”

Caleb narrowed his eyes. “That seems unlikely.” Sienna was with Lucas now. Her hatred for Derek was obvious…

“I hope you’re right!” Vanessa continued. “But I don’t feel safe. If she didn’t hate me, she wouldn’t have mocked me like that before she left.”

She looked down, feigning distress.

“You know she’s never accepted my apology. She still holds a grudge. So… I need you to stay with her for a few days. You don’t have to confront her. Just watch her. It’s harmless.”

“If she plans anything, you can intervene. You’re her brother, after all. You can warn me if something happens.”

Caleb frowned. She wanted him to move out of Bennett Manor? To live with Sienna? He already disliked her. Did he really have to stay under the same roof?

“Caleb, I know you’re reluctant. But it’s only three days. Just three! In return, I can get Takashi Yamamoto to coach you. Personally.”

His eyes lit up immediately. “Seriously?” Even though Takashi had lost to that player called Boss, he was still one of the top gamers. Besides Boss, no one could touch him. The night after his defeat, Takashi had challenged every top player—and won every match. His reputation was fully restored. People whispered that Boss must have cheated. Or gotten lucky. Or was some kind of gaming deity. To Caleb, Takashi was still a legend.

Vanessa nodded. “Yes. I met him at an event in Lakeshore once. He’s a fan. He’ll do it if I ask. This isn’t a bribe, Caleb… I see you as my own brother. I know you’ll be bored these next few days. Think of it as my wedding gift to you.” He felt a pang of guilt. She was always so thoughtful. And here he was, hesitating over such a simple request.

“Alright,” he agreed. “I’ll do it. I’ll go find her right now.”

Vanessa watched him leave, a cold smirk twisting her lips once his back was turned. Penelope closed the door behind him and approached, confused. “Ms. Vanessa, we could hire someone to watch Sienna. Sending Caleb and paying Takashi… that will cost a fortune!” She knew Vanessa’s finances were strained. After the last scandal, her shares were frozen. Henry Bennett had ordered her to rest at home. No one was giving her money anymore. As for Takashi… Even if he admired her, no one did favors for free. Not for a woman with a ruined reputation.

Vanessa scoffed. “You know nothing. I have my reasons.”

She picked up her phone and typed a message to Takashi Yamamoto:

[Mr. Yamamoto, I have a favor to ask. My brother is an avid gamer and admires you greatly. Would you be willing to train him? I will make it worth your while. If you can take him to Lakeshore for intensive coaching, I will be even more grateful. Help him achieve his dream.]

Her eyes darkened as she sent the text. Just wait. Soon, everyone who looked down on her would regret it. Even the mighty Prescotts.

Meanwhile, the entire manor was buzzing with wedding preparations. Even Henry was involved.

Only Caleb slipped away, rushing to the parking lot. Luck was on his side. Sienna hadn’t left yet. Her car was still there.