Chapter 250: A Clue from Five Years Ago

Aurora shifted slightly, a flicker of unease crossing her features before she quickly composed herself.

“I heard Mr. Parker and Mr. Sinclair mentioned Crownlight Entertainment doesn’t force personas on artists. Does that mean we can be authentic?”

“Correct. I reviewed your portfolio. Maintain your elegant, intellectual style. You’ll lead the Starlight Gala this year.” Sienna’s tone remained strictly professional.

“Seriously?” Aurora gasped, her eyes widening in disbelief.

The Starlight Gala was a massive annual tradition. Thousands paraded through heritage sites in historical attire, a spectacle known worldwide. Vanessa Bennett always held the lead position—no one else ever got it. Even when Aurora participated before, she was relegated to second or third row. They even forced her to sneak snacks during the event, drawing harsh criticism from traditionalists. Now she would lead? Sienna responded with practiced calm. “Yes. No need to worry. We won’t force binge-eating antics. Drop the ‘foodie’ persona entirely. Ask if you have further questions.”

A sudden thought struck Aurora. “Does this apply to all models?”

“Equal treatment for everyone.” Six words, delivered with crisp efficiency.

Sienna handed her several files. Aurora accepted them, scanning the detailed plans for herself and other top models. Each plan eliminated forced personas and tailored opportunities to their natural strengths. Far superior to Summit Media’s proposals! Aurora stayed behind, representing the others, to review Crownlight Entertainment’s full strategy. Every detail was meticulously crafted. She stood, extending her hand. “President Bennett, I look forward to our collaboration.”

“Likewise.” Sienna shook her hand firmly. “Remember to inform the others: if these high-value contracts fail, I stand to lose the most.” A faint, confident smile touched Sienna’s lips as she exited.

The reminder hit Aurora. The termination clauses were nearly a billion per model. Sienna paid them all upfront. If they underperformed, her losses would be staggering. Yet she invested massively, offered bespoke plans, and took minimal commission. What was her real goal? Watching Sienna leave, Aurora realized she was different. Not like other models. Not like any manager she’d ever met.

After the meeting, Sienna headed to another office to meet Owen Parker and Logan Pierce. Owen was absent, but Logan’s face lit up upon seeing her. “Sienna! Finally free to visit?” he greeted warmly. “Has it really been five years?”

“What’s this? Miss me? Need me checking in on you?” she teased lightly.

Logan hastily fastened his top button. “No need! I’ve been buried in work. And you, since Vanessa’s exposure! The paparazzi must be hounding you. No time to check on anyone else.” Sienna’s expression darkened at Vanessa’s mention. The paparazzi had indeed swarmed, seeking interviews she consistently declined. Perhaps a public appearance was needed soon. To shame the couple properly. Logan’s tone turned serious. “Speaking of Vanessa… the news reminded me of something from five years ago. Something I should have warned you about. That night… I saw Vanessa meeting a man. They were talking privately.”

“A man?” Sienna’s brow furrowed. She gripped his wrist tightly. “What did he look like?”