Chapter 131: Henry Bennett Stared at the Silver-framed Photograph

Henry Bennett stared at the silver-framed photograph. His chest tightened with a heavy sigh.

"Even though I trust Sienna completely..."

His voice trailed off into the stillness of the room.

"The current circumstances leave no choice."

His fingers traced the edge of the frame.

"Removing her from the Bennett legacy is the only protection I can offer."

He looked into the eyes captured in the portrait.

"You have my solemn vow."

His words carried the weight of decades.

"As long as I draw breath, she remains my granddaughter."

The declaration hung in the air.

"Shares or no shares."

Vanessa Bennett never knew about the hidden photograph. She floated from the study on a cloud of triumph. The shareholders' approval echoed in her mind. She cornered Philip Bennett with a glittering smile.

"Congratulations, Father."

Her voice dripped with false sweetness.

"Largest shareholder of Bennett Holdings."

She placed a possessive hand on his arm.

"Now you can provide even better for us."

Philip's face darkened instantly.

"Don't mention those two!"

His voice sharpened to a blade.

"Sienna sits in a cell."

He practically spat the words.

"And that worthless Caleb hasn't been home in weeks."

His jaw clenched.

"Thinking about them boils my blood."

He focused on Vanessa.

"You're the only one I trust now."

His gaze intensified.

"Drop some endorsements if you must."

A calculated pause.

"Help me rebuild the company's reputation."

He offered the ultimate carrot.

"My shares will be yours eventually."

Vanessa feigned humility perfectly.

"I don't care about the shares, Daddy."

She laid it on thick.

"I only want to ease your burdens."

Her performance was flawless.

"I'll create new policies."

She promised the moon.

"I'll handle everything for you."

Philip nodded, thoroughly deceived.

"My true daughter."

He compared bitterly.

"A million times better than that adopted stray."

The press release hit every major outlet by noon. Sienna Bennett resided in South Africa for five years. She held no operational role within Bennett Holdings. Shares were granted based on family status alone. Due to her recent criminal actions... The board has voted unanimously for removal. All shares are hereby forfeited. Bennett Holdings severs all ties with Sienna Bennett. Her future actions are her own responsibility. Public approval was immediate and overwhelming. Pulse ignited with supportive comments. Every local branch amplified the message. Small towns received the news within hours.

Sienna's name became synonymous with poison. Her reputation dissolved into mud. Public favor evaporated completely. She was utterly notorious. The detention room held an unnatural quiet. Sienna slept deeply on the narrow cot. She showed no concern for the world outside. Lucas Harrington arrived with Noah in tow. The scene gave him immediate pause. He gestured for Noah to wait down the hall. Lucas entered alone. An exquisite lunch box weighed in his hand.

"Your trial is tomorrow."

His voice cut the silence.

"Are you truly prepared?"

Sienna didn't bother opening her eyes.

"Everything is handled."

Her tone remained flat. Lucas's frown deepened. Discomfort prickled under his skin.

"By Owen Parker?"

The name felt like acid on his tongue.

"Is that who you mean?"

Sienna's eyes snapped open. She caught his jealous tone immediately. Lucas moved to her bedside.

"Owen."

He whispered the name. Gravel laced with clear displeasure. Sienna frowned at his possessiveness. Why would he even care? Owen hadn't visited once during her incarceration... Lucas misread her silence completely. His hands shot out abruptly. He gripped her shoulders with sudden force. He pulled her upright from the cot.