Chapter 17

Josiah strode over, quickly bent to retrieve the ointment tube, and examined it. It was still sealed; she hadn't touched it.

He sneered. "Getting addicted to playing the pity card?" Did she think he cared? Considering her actions toward Yvette four years prior, he'd already been more than generous, he mused, tossing the ointment into the trash.

After leaving Silver Beach, Sienna pulled out her phone. She contacted a real estate agent via WhatsApp and spent the day apartment hunting. By evening, she'd found a suitable place.

The apartment was located in a quieter part of the city. It was a small, slightly shabby one-bedroom, but it had a kitchen and bathroom. Given her budget, it was all she could afford.

"How is it?" the agent asked. "Does it work for you?"

Sienna nodded.

The agent beamed. "Alright, then let's get that contract signed. Once signed, I'll get confirmation from the landlord, and if everything's fine, you can move in within a couple of days."

"That's great, thank you," Sienna said, relief evident in her voice. With the apartment secured, she slept soundly that night. Josiah, as usual, didn't come home.

On Friday, Sienna enjoyed a restorative nap. Tonight was her debut—she needed to be flawless. She left early for Maze, arriving twenty minutes before her scheduled time.

Henry greeted her with a warm smile and handshake. "Sienna, get ready. Tonight, the show's all yours." He gestured to the clothes beside him. "Everything's set. We're just waiting for you to blow everyone away."

Sienna smiled gently. "Mr. White, I'll do my best."

"Go for it. Hurry up and get your makeup done."

"Alright, Mr. White."

Following the rehearsal plan, Sienna was to perform a masked jazz dance. Henry had explained, "The more you cover, the more curious they become, and the less we reveal. This way, you build your name, draw guests, and boost spending. Plus, a face like yours is a trump card—it's worth keeping mysterious."

Sienna kept her thoughts to herself. Her primary goal was to earn money; Henry's approach was fine with her.

As the time approached, Henry hurried her. "Sienna, are you ready? It's your turn."

"Yep," Sienna replied, rising. She took a deep breath, preparing to take the stage. A pole dancer had already energized the crowd, and compared to her, Sienna's outfit was decidedly more modest.

The music began, and she made her entrance. Her mask covered her upper face, complemented by bold red lipstick. The effect was stunning—eye-catching and impressive. Her long hair was styled in curls, topped with a tilted black hat. She wore a flowing white silk shirt and loose, sheer harem pants that showcased her slim legs.

As the spotlight found her, Sienna offered a silent smile, her presence exuding allure. The sultry jazz filled the room, electrifying the crowd.

In the lounge, Josiah relaxed with Thomas, Yosef, and others, including Yosef's cousin, Cedric Brawne. Cedric, recently returned from studying abroad, possessed a more intellectual demeanor. Yosef had brought him to experience the club's atmosphere.

Yosef poured Cedric a drink. "You're all grown up and about to start working at the company. You need to get used to such places."

Cedric nodded shyly.

Suddenly, the atmosphere intensified, capturing everyone's attention. Even Thomas looked over. "Hey, is that a new dancer? I haven't seen her before."

Yosef nodded. "Yeah, looks like it."

"Wow, she has such a tiny waist," Thomas remarked, glancing at Josiah. "Look, I could wrap my hand around it and snap it like a twig."

"Why are you even saying that?" Yosef chuckled. "You know his heart's set on someone else."

Josiah glared. "Kid, dare you try talking nonsense again?"

"I'll zip it," Yosef said, raising his hands in mock surrender, sharing a knowing look with Thomas—who, in all likelihood, knew about the time the Flynn brothers had fallen for the same girl.

Over the years, Yvette had remained with Howard, while Josiah had remained devoted. He'd even sent his wife abroad because of Yvette. If lovesickness were a competition, Josiah would win.

On stage, the dance reached its climax. Sienna swayed her slender waist, her long legs moving with irresistible charm. Yet, she maintained composure, her piercing gaze exuding breathtaking charisma. The contrast was captivating.

For a moment, the entire club was captivated. Then, Josiah froze, sitting up straight, his eyes fixed on the stage. "Why does this girl seem so familiar?"

Thomas waved a hand in front of him. "Hey, is she that amazing? You're staring."

"Really?" Yosef was skeptical. "No way. Besides that one, does anyone else catch Mr. Flynn's attention?" Josiah laughed angrily. "What are you talking about? She just looks familiar, like I've seen her somewhere before."