Chapter 280: Sienna Bennett Worked Intently at Her Computer Station

Sienna Bennett worked intently at her computer station. Lucas Harrington sat nearby on the sofa, reviewing company documents. Their son Noah quietly did his homework beside Sienna. Though no words were exchanged, a comfortable silence enveloped them. Lucas had moved his temporary office into the computer room to stay close. Dominic Sterling entered and announced, "Mr. Harrington, Ms. Bennett, Valerie Duval has arrived at the gate." Sienna immediately turned to Lucas. "Handle this quickly." She knew Valerie's temper could escalate things to the Harrington family elders. Lucas remained completely calm. "Everything is under control."

He gave Noah a subtle signal. The boy set down his textbook and told Sienna, "Mommy, I'll handle this. You stay with Daddy. Watch me send her away from the monitors!" He hurried out with determined steps. Sienna frowned worriedly at Lucas. "You're letting a five-year-old confront her? She's dangerous." A woman like Valerie might harm Noah without hesitation. Lucas activated all the security monitors. "Just watch, Ms. Bennett." His confident tone suggested he had planned for every possibility. Screens displayed every angle of the mansion's entrance hall.

Sienna's concern didn't fade. What had he prepared that made him so certain? Downstairs in the grand lobby... Valerie Duval entered with her usual air of superiority. All staff immediately bowed and greeted, "Ms. Duval." Noah came running toward her. "Aunt Valerie! You came!" Valerie eyed him suspiciously. The boy usually ignored her completely. His sudden enthusiasm seemed out of character. But Noah was Lucas's greatest weakness. Winning his affection could secure her position as future Mrs. Harrington. She approached him with false sweetness. "You seem cheerful today, sweetheart. Where's your father?"

"Daddy had urgent business at headquarters. He told me to spend time with you. He said you might become my new Mommy."

Noah delivered the lines with perfect innocence. Valerie's eyes lit up with triumph. "He actually said that?"

"Of course! Daddy said it depends on how well we get along. He just wants someone who can be a good mother to me."

Noah looked up with wide, hopeful eyes. "Do you really want to be my Mommy, Aunt Valerie? Will you treat me like your own son? Will you play games with me?"

"Absolutely," Valerie answered without hesitation.

She reached to pat his head. "I've always loved children. I'll definitely treat you well."

"Then will you play with me? Daddy's always working. I get so lonely."

Noah tugged her hand gently with pleading eyes. Valerie had never seen him act so affectionately. Though she despised the child's biological mother, she needed his approval.

"What would you like to play? I'll play anything you want."

"Yay! Finally someone will play with me! Come with me, Aunt Valerie!"

Noah eagerly pulled her toward the back gardens. Valerie followed, pleased at how easily she was winning him over. She hadn't expected him to lead her outside. In the extensive gardens stood a massive...