She despised Hera for stealing all the attention and even fantasized about being with Zhane, despite knowing her status paled inparison. Yet, no matter how unfair it seemed, she was powerless to act. Zhane was protecting the vixen, and though she longed to confront Hera, she knew the timing wasn’t right.
Overwhelmed by a mix of hurt andplicated emotions, Sienna fled to her car, unwilling to endure any more verbal attacks. She couldn’t handle it and had no desire to face anyone. It felt as though everyone was watching her with scorn and disdain—feelings she had never experienced before—and the weight of it all was too much to bear.
"Finally!" Dave sneered, rolling his eyes as he sat back down beside Hera. ’Sweetheart, are you alright?’ he asked softly, his voice filled with concern. "Don’t pay any mind to what that woman said—she’s just jealous of you." Reaching for Hera’s hand, he gently rubbed it, offeringfort. "As long as I’m here, I won’t let anyone hurt you." With that, he turned his attention back to the Korean dignitary, who remained standing with his granddaughter, still frozen in ce.
The Korean dignitary understood that Dave’s words were a deliberate warning. It was a clear signal that Dave was finished ying passive, and if he crossed the line again, Dave wouldn’t hesitate to put him in his ce.
Hera didn’t view Sienna or the Korean dignitary as real threats. She knew they were just cannon fodder like her, unlikely to cause significant trouble unless their fates shifted as hers had—which seemed improbable. But even if that were the case, she chose not to overthink it. Her te was already full, and she had more pressing matters to focus on.
Hera smiled warmly at Zhane and Dave, leaning closer to Zhane and gently grasping Dave’s hand. "I don’t mind at all," she admitted softly. "I feel confident knowing that Zhane and Dave won’t let anyone bully me, so I feel at ease." Her sweet smile and reassuring words worked their charm, showcasing her ability to use her advantage effectively. If she didn’t leverage her charm and gentle persuasion to strengthen her connections with the male leads, she might be missing an opportunity to use her influence strategically.
This approach ensured that Hera stayed in control of the male leads while making them feel valued and appreciated. Instead of feeling taken for granted, they would see that their efforts were recognized. Indeed, as soon as Hera made this small gesture, both Zhane and Dave smiled contentedly, their eyes reflecting a warm, affectionate gleam.
Her sweet words melted away their irritation, and the brief interruption caused by the three unwanted people was quickly forgotten. Afterward, Bry, showing his concern,ically attempted to downy the situation. This earned him another affectionate yet reprimanding pat on the back of his head from his father for his unrefined behavior in front of so many people.
Despite the earlier interruption, the atmosphere between them lightened, andughter returned to their group as they made their way to the Dragon Pce Hotel for breakfast. Since Bry hadn’t had the chance to visit, Hera wanted to take him there so he could enjoy the panoramic view of the entire city from the revolving restaurant.
However, Dave appeared dejected, sulking around like a defeated puppy. Hera, curious about his sudden change in mood, asked him what was wrong. Seizing the opportunity to voice his frustration, Dave grumbled, "Yesterday, you spent time with Luke and Rafael at the Golden Dragon Pavilion and went boating on theke. That doesn’t seem fair."
Zhane shook his head in disapproval and scolded Dave. "You’re being childish again," Zhane said firmly. "Do you really want topete with everyone all the time?" He didn’t hold back, calling Dave out for his pettiness and jealousy.
"But I already had a meal at the Dragon Pce Hotel with Hera, and I also want to enjoy a meal with her at the Golden Dragon Pavilion. So what if I’m being childish?! I’m just being honest about my feelings," Dave retorted, pouting to emphasize his point.