Chapter 259

Josiah returned with a plate, settling onto the couch armrest instead of sitting down. “I’m holding the plate for you, so you can relax and eat.” Sienna didn’t comment on his unnecessary assistance, picking up a piece of grilled salmon and eating it.

Josiah silently admired her, then hesitantly asked, “Have you seen Gedric?”

Sienna paused, shaking her head. “No. Is he here?”

“Yeah,” Josiah indicated Gedric’s location. “Over there. See?”

“Okay,” Sienna replied casually.

Josiah continued, “How about the girl next to him? Did you notice her?”

Sienna shot him a look. “Yes. What’s your point?” She wondered if Josiah recognized Reyna as her kidnapper. Apparently, he didn’t.

“Her last name is Fischer,” Josiah said, his gaze darkening. “I can’t recall her first name.”

“Her father is a professor heading the Physics Department at Jeiacrity University, and her mother runs a supermarket. She’s a good match for Cedric,” Sienna smirked. “Yeah, she sure seemed to know a lot.”

It was a perfect match, she mused. When Larry first met Tiffany, he was a struggling college student. Tiffany, a sharp businesswoman, ran a small, profitable convenience store. She supported Larry through school, funding his doctorate and subsequent faculty position. Her business thrived, expanding into a supermarket chain. Later, Sienna was born. Then, one day, Tiffany's sister Tania appeared, pregnant and distraught.

“Are you okay, Sienna?” Josiah waved his hand before her face, concerned. “What’s wrong? Is it because Cedric has a girlfriend? Are you upset?”

“Of course not,” Sienna replied, returning to the present. “I just think the girl looks familiar.”

“Really?” Josiah raised an eyebrow, glancing at Reyna. “Nowadays, all these girls look the same with makeup.”

He gently took her hand. “I can tell you’re different. You’re more beautiful than all of them.”

Sienna blushed, lightly pushing him away. She pointed to the plate. “The salmon is delicious. Go get some more.”

Josiah, smiling, stood and retrieved more food. As soon as he left, Sienna’s smile faded. Cedric and Reyna dating didn't make her jealous; she felt sorry for him. She thought, ‘Forget her parents. Reyna threatened and kidnapped someone for personal gain. She’s a terrible person. Does Cedric really know her? Should I get involved?’ She felt conflicted and uncertain.

The next morning, Sienna arrived at the Lightning Dance early. Before she could change, someone called for her. “Ms. Scott is here. She wants to see you.”

“Okay, I’ll be right there,” Sienna replied.

Brenda, still recovering from serious injuries sustained in Fliraty, was resting.

“Hi, Ms. Scott,” Sienna knocked and entered the break room, standing respectfully. “I hope you feel better.”

“I do,” Brenda gestured to her leg. “You can’t rush things.” She had a request. “Come sit.”

“Alright.” Sienna sat. “Ms. Scott, is there something you need?”

Brenda was direct. “Sienna, I want to assign you as a dance consultant for a variety dance show at the TV station.”

Sienna was surprised. “But, Ms. Scott, we’ve been on a break for over a month. Aren’t we about to start performing again?”

“Not yet,” Brenda sighed. “The energy is depleted. Some dancers can’t perform again.”

Sienna knew; muscle and bone injuries were devastating for dancers. Two lead dancers wouldn’t return. Brenda had found replacements, but the troupe’s appeal was diminished.

Brenda continued, “Sienna, I need you to help rebuild the troupe’s reputation through this variety show. Do you understand?” Internet fame was a double-edged sword. “Sienna, I trust you. I believe in your passion.”

The entertainment industry was chaotic. Brenda needed someone reliable.

Sienna nodded firmly. “I understand, Ms. Scott. I’ll do it properly.”

“Good.” Brenda smiled. “I’ll send your information to the crew. They’ll contact you soon!”

“Thank you, Ms. Scott,” Sienna replied.

That afternoon, Sienna received a call from the crew; they’d meet Monday. Around four or five, snow began to fall. Sienna received a message from Josiah: [I’ll be at the Lightning Dance entrance in 10 minutes.] He had prior commitments tomorrow.

Sienna was pleased; this gave her time with Joyce, who needed new clothes.

After changing, Sienna left the Lightning Dance. As she reached the entrance, her phone rang. Expecting Josiah, she saw it was an unknown number.

Puzzled, she answered, “Hello!”

The caller was silent.

Sienna frowned, raising her voice. “Can you hear me? Who’s this? Who are you looking for?”

Silence.

“Hello!” A feeling of unease crept over her, and then, she had an accident.