Chapter 2: Five Years Later

Five years had passed.

The gates of the Bennett family estate swung open. A sleek black motorcycle roared into the compound. It executed a perfect 360-degree drift before halting at the entrance. The machine was a masterpiece of engineering, finished in matte black. A cloud of dust settled around it. An elegant leg extended from the bike. A woman dismounted smoothly. She removed her helmet. Long dark hair cascaded down her shoulders, lifted by the breeze. Sienna Bennett’s gaze fixed on the words “Bennett Manor.” A faint, cold smile touched her crimson lips. She was back.

After five endless years. The last time she stood here, her world had collapsed. Brutal kicks to her stomach. A life lost before it began. Public humiliation, branded an adulteress. Framed by Derek and Vanessa. Her dignity shredded. Her inheritance stolen. Banished to Africa with nothing. Forced to survive on scraps.

Five years of agony.

Five years of survival.

Now, she would reclaim what was hers. Every last bit. She took a step forward. Then another. Her boots clicked against the pavement.

Inside the garden, a lavish party was in full swing.

Waiters glided through the crowd with trays of expensive canapés and champagne. It was Henry Bennett’s 70th birthday. The elite of Kingsport had gathered to celebrate. A crowd surrounded the old man, offering gifts and flattery.

“Father, I brought your favorite tea. A century-old aged black tea. Worth half a million.”

“Grandfather, this painting is by Elias Rowan. ‘High In The Sky.’ Nearly fifty million. May you live as long as the heavens.”

A soft, melodic voice cut through the noise.

“Grandfather, I had this Meteorite Guardian Statue specially carved for you. It’s worth five hundred million. I hope it brings you peace.”

All eyes turned to Vanessa Bennett. She looked radiant, delicate features glowing. Four assistants followed her, carrying a board draped in red silk. On it sat an exquisitely carved Meteorite Guardian Statue. Sunlight glinted off its surface, revealing deep, forest-green hues. The stone seemed to pulse with ancient energy. The crowd gasped.

“My God! What kind of jade is that? The color is incredible!”

“That’s not jade. It’s the Northstar No. 1 Black Green Meteorite! Valued at five billion!”

“The one and only in the world?”

“Yes! It’s harder than diamond. A type of iron meteorite. Indestructible.”

“Unbelievable! Vanessa actually bought it and had it carved!”

“She must have spent her entire savings!”

Admiration filled the air. Vanessa basked in the praise inwardly. Outwardly, she remained humble. She bowed her head slightly. “Please, it’s nothing. I just wanted to make Grandfather happy. My savings were well spent.” Henry beamed. “I love it! Absolutely magnificent!” Suddenly, a voice rang out. “Who is that? She looks familiar!” The crowd fell silent. All heads turned toward the entrance. Sienna walked down the red carpet. She wore a black leather jacket and fitted pants. Her hair flowed behind her like a dark river. She moved with calm authority.

An aura of quiet power surrounded her. Vanessa’s smile vanished. Sienna? She was supposed to be in Africa. Burnt. Broken. Ugly. How was she so beautiful? Helena Bennett stepped forward, face tight with anger. “What are you wearing? This is a formal event! Go to the backyard! You’re embarrassing us!” Vanessa forced a sweet tone. “Mother, perhaps Sienna came to celebrate Grandfather’s birthday. Let her stay.” All eyes judged Sienna.

“Empty-handed? Some celebration.”

“A ward of the family. Probably here to beg for money.”

“Henry saved fifteen percent of shares for her, and she brings nothing?”

Sophia Carlisle sneered and shoved Sienna. “Get lost, orphan! You can’t even afford to look at this meteorite. Five billion! You’ve never seen that much money in your life!” Sienna didn’t flinch. A cool smile played on her lips. “Who said I came empty-handed?” She clapped her hands sharply. Four assistants approached, carrying another board draped in red silk. They unveiled an identical meteorite guardian statue. Exactly the same as Vanessa’s. A perfect duplicate. Silence descended. Then chaos erupted.