Chapter 201: Vanessa Kept Her Head Bowed Low

Vanessa kept her head bowed low.

"I'm so sorry, Father, Mother, Grandfather, and everyone I love."

"I deeply regret causing you all such worry."

"My only intention was to atone. To seek redemption."

"You don't need to go to such extremes to repent," Helena murmured while applying ointment to the scar. "Everyone makes mistakes. I forgave you long ago."

A collective sigh filled the room. Everyone admired Vanessa's actions, including Henry Bennett, who seemed genuinely pleased to have her home. Among all the family members, Vanessa was the only one who had chosen to live humbly in a remote, rural area. Her actions had garnered widespread respect and admiration, even causing the family's stock shares to rise. Vanessa basked in the greetings and concern from everyone, feeling deeply satisfied. Then the maid announced, "Ms. Bennett, Mr. Prescott is here."

All eyes turned to see Derek and Sienna entering side by side. Sienna's arm was linked with Derek's, and he held her hand with a gentle firmness. They were a stunning power couple, seemingly made for each other. Their brilliance outshone even the glimmering stars in the night sky. Vanessa's eye twitched violently. A sharp pang of jealousy and anger stabbed through her heart. Sienna and Derek were so close, so sweet with each other! Derek was even holding her hand!

Although Derek had cheated with her, he had never been publicly seen with another woman. He had always maintained a well-behaved image over the years. Why was he so intimate with Sienna now?! As the couple stepped into the living room, Sienna secretly glanced at Vanessa and flashed a smirk only she could see. In pain? Suffering? Hah. Served her right! Sienna then looked at Vanessa with an inquisitive gaze. "Vanessa, when did you return? You should have told us earlier. Alex and I would have picked you up." Alex? She called him Alex?!

Derek jolted slightly, caught off guard by the strange sensation that nickname evoked. This drove Vanessa insane. He was still her man. Hers! Sienna was blatantly showing off in front of her. No matter how much it hurt, Vanessa couldn't show it. She had to suppress her emotions.

Fortunately, Helena changed the subject. "Sienna, Vanessa went to the countryside because of you. She didn't want to come back. She only returned when I told her about your wedding tomorrow. Please tell her you forgive her. Ask her never to go back to such a place again." Helena's heart ached terribly whenever she thought of poor Vanessa in that run-down area.

Sienna gave Vanessa a thorough once-over. Vanessa had actually gotten prettier in just a month. Her skin was fair and flawless like porcelain. Did she look like she had endured any hardship at all? Only someone as gullible as Helena would believe her! Sienna chose to keep that observation to herself. Instead, she replied, "I let it go a long time ago. Actually, I'm even grateful you returned Alex to me. To show my gratitude, I'd like to ask you to be my bridesmaid." Bridesmaid? Was Sienna seriously asking Vanessa to be her bridesmaid?

Tomorrow's ceremony would be filled with important figures. Rumor had it even the Harrington men might show up, along with hundreds of paparazzi! If she could be the bridesmaid, she would gain immense attention and popularity! Why would Sienna be so nice to her? Vanessa looked at her suspiciously. "Sienna, are you sure? You're not angry with me anymore? You truly want me as your bridesmaid?"

"Of course! I even have a gown prepared for you as the bridesmaid!" Sienna chirped, making a gesture.

Her assistant, Evelyn—arranged by Lucas—entered carrying a box. She presented it to Vanessa. Vanessa accepted the box. A slight frown appeared on her face as she peered inside.