Chapter 200: The Unfortunate Man

The moment Sierra entered the room, Maggie felt a surge of resentment. It was clear Ronald had been plotting something, manipulating her like a pawn in his game. If everything hadn't been settled behind the scenes, how could Sierra have appeared so quickly?

Despite her suspicions, Maggie decided to play dumb. After their long separation, Sierra didn't seem embarrassed, but rather high-spirited.

Although the Pierces weren't as wealthy as the Camerons, they held a respectable position in society. Their family was deeply rooted in the arts. Master Pierce was renowned for his calligraphy and painting, while Madam Pierce was a renowned performer. Even Olivia, usually reserved, had made significant strides in calligraphy, painting, and the performing arts.

With only one son and one daughter, Olivia had always been her parents' favorite, especially as their youngest child. When Olivia married Ronald, their lives seemed idyllic. Similarly, the older couple cherished Joseph and Sierra.

While not wealthy, the Pierces weren't impoverished. Initially, upon learning Sierra had been expelled from the Camerons', they were enraged. Had their grandson and daughter not still lived under the Camerons' roof, they would have demanded an explanation.

Despite the lack of explanation, the Pierces empathized with Sierra, showering her with love and care to ease her distress. As a result, despite her eviction by Master Cameron, Sierra enjoyed a relatively comfortable life.

"Dad, Grandpa, Grandma, Mom, Brother," Sierra greeted each family member respectfully after removing her sunglasses, following Olivia's guidance. When her gaze met Maggie's, she paused briefly before addressing Maggie as her sister.

Maggie raised an eyebrow, noticing the animosity in Sierra's eyes. Sierra was fierce but lacked expertise; an innocent girl spoiled by her privileged background.

"It's good to have you back. You must reflect on your recent behavior. Remember, the Camerons' success is your success. As a Cameron, you must always look ahead," Master Cameron admonished.

Sierra bowed her head, tears welling in her eyes. "I understand, Grandpa. I've been worried about Luster Corporation. Then, hearing Dad's plans, I decided to help my family."

Sierra nodded. "Mom, don't worry. Grandpa helped me obtain the list of contestants. There aren't many strong competitors, so winning shouldn't be a problem." Maggie's expression remained unchanged, but she pondered Sierra's words. She has the contestant list in advance? That meant Sierra could strategize against her perceived opponents.

Upon hearing this, Ronald and the others visibly relaxed. Mary held Sierra's hand affectionately. "I know you're amazing. We're counting on you to turn Luster Corporation's fortunes around."

"Don't worry, Auntie. I'll do my best."

"Okay. Then Auntie will choose some beautiful jewelry for you, so you'll be stunning on stage."

Ronald then turned to Maggie. "Maggie, your piano skills may not match Sierra's, but you're still very talented. I'm excited to see you and your sister compete. You must perform well," he remarked.

"Don't worry, Dad," Maggie nodded seriously, sneering inwardly. Even his own daughter is being used as a pawn; how could he care about me, the daughter of the enemy? Perhaps Sierra wasn't the real target; only she was.

Maggie instantly understood Ronald's strategy. Competing with her sister was a diversion, a ploy to deflect attention from Luster Corporation's damaged reputation. Tsk, that's a clever statement. Even after all these years, I was almost fooled by Ronald again.

The Camerons would undoubtedly promote Sierra. In the entertainment industry, where capital was king, they needed to promote her. However, given Luster Corporation's current state, that alone wouldn't be enough. Sierra needed to take the blame.

Maggie remained at the Camerons' residence due to the late hour. As the crowd dispersed, she started upstairs, but Mary called out, "Maggie!"

Maggie stopped and turned. "Yes, Auntie?"

Without waiting for a response, Mary walked away, head held high. Maggie stood there, unfazed; she wasn't surprised. Mary had always looked down on her, believing Maggie didn't deserve the Camerons' favor. Therefore, her aunt refused to acknowledge her. If not for Maggie's contributions, Mary wouldn't tolerate her presence.

Maggie retracted her gaze, only to meet Sierra's. Sierra's innocent facade had vanished, replaced by cold malice.

"How about it, Maggie? You tried to push me away, but I always returned. When I win this competition, I'll make you apologize to me!" Sierra had a clear agenda. Being forced out of the house was a lifelong shame. This time, she returned believing the family wanted her to win and promote the company. The condition? Maggie's apology, on bended knee! Otherwise, she wouldn't have returned! Maggie had taught her a lesson: people only have influence when they're valuable. She may not be as adept at business, but she had this opportunity.

Maggie smiled thinly, her eyes cold. "So, you're sure you can win?"

"Of course! Do you think you can win with just a few tricks? Maggie, be realistic. Don't take compliments seriously. People applaud you because you're a Cameron, but you've never studied systematically. You don't even know where you found that incompetent tutor. Do you really think you're naturally gifted?"

Sierra crossed her arms, the irony in her eyes undisguised, clearly not taking Maggie seriously.

Maggie remained composed, curving her red lips. "I thought that speech was for you, my sister."