Chapter 329: The Sharp Crack Echoed Through the Air

The sharp crack echoed through the air. Vanessa stumbled backward at least two meters. She crashed into a nearby hedge, tearing her skirt. Derek rushed to her side immediately. He helped her to her feet.

"What was that for, Sienna?!"

"She asked me to hit her. I simply obliged."

Sienna's voice was icy and detached. Vanessa touched her swollen cheek gently. She clung to Derek's arm.

"Don't worry, Derek... I actually feel better now. I don't blame her."

She looked toward Sienna with pleading eyes.

"Sister, I made a terrible mistake this time. But I promise it won't happen again."

"I'm leaving the entertainment industry. All my resources and connections will be yours..."

"Do I look like I need them?"

Sienna brushed past her without a second glance. Her shoulder bumped Vanessa's forcefully. She walked away without looking back. Derek caught Vanessa as she stumbled again. His eyes followed Sienna's retreating figure. She wore a white suit that accentuated her striking beauty. Her lips were their usual fiery red. This version of Sienna was new to him. He realized only a woman like her deserved to stand by his side. Her resources could secure his status. Her demeanor ignited a fierce desire within him. He wanted to claim her, to make her his.

Vanessa seethed with silent rage. She saw the raw desire in Derek's eyes. Sienna had destroyed her career and now stole his heart. How could she be so vicious? But with Derek present, Vanessa had to maintain her facade. She sobbed pitifully into his chest.

"It's all my fault, Derek! I'm so sorry... I ruined everything..."

Her crying snapped Derek out of his trance. He looked down at the useless woman in his arms. Annoyance flashed across his face.

"Stop crying. Just fix your mistake. Let's go."

He turned and walked into the café. Vanessa froze in shock. He didn't comfort her. He told her to make it up to him. Even he thought this was entirely her fault? Rage burned through her veins. She forced herself to remain calm. She followed him into a private room.

"Derek, I promised to gain Sienna's approval. I will see it through."

"Look what I prepared for you."

She handed him a folder. Derek took it and read the title. Vincent Moreau. Nightfall Syndicate. He frowned. "What is this?"

"Sienna has been tracking the Nightfall Syndicate. She wants to find Vincent Moreau to prove I set her up."

"This is the only evidence that can prove my involvement."

Vanessa looked at him meaningfully.

"Won't she be touched if you help her find this man and deliver justice for her?"