The Return of the Cannon Fodder Trillion Heiress - Chapter 376

Chapter 376: Chapter 376 Dave’s Sulking
As Sienna’s reputation took a hit due to her comments, the Korean dignitary and his granddaughter, who had previously seen her as an ally, took a noticeable step back. Their clear withdrawal indicated their reluctance to be associated with her any longer.

As foreigners in this country, establishing the right connections was crucial for their success. Associating with someone with a tarnished reputation could pull them down and undermine their efforts. They knew that aligning with disreputable individuals could jeopardize their hard work and progress, making it essential to avoid such associations to ensure their success.

Sienna’s words had backfired spectacularly, leaving her isolated as no one showed even the slightest inclination to assist her. Instead, people seemed to view her as a target to impress Zhane and Dave. It was clear that everyone was making a concerted effort to subtly draw the attention of the two prominent gentlemen, seeking to position themselves favorably in their eyes.

Zhane and Dave remained silent in response to the barrage of accusations aimed at Sienna. For one, she had brought it upon herself, and they were content to keep their hands clean by not engaging directly. Furthermore, this situation served as an opportunity for them to demonstrate their influence and power, not only to impress Hera but also to channel their frustration indirectly through the unfolding drama.

Hera remained largely unaffected by Sienna’s venomous remarks. In fact, she found Alice’s approach far more challenging, as it required her to maintain a performance of vulnerability and sympathy that was both emotionally and physically draining. Sienna’s behavior, on the other hand, only served to attract disdain from others, making Hera’s task easier. With Sienna’s actions backfiring and drawing negative attention toward herself, Hera didn’t need to exert any effort to address the situation.

Moreover, with Zhane and Dave clearly shielding her, others would inevitably swarm around them, trying to impress the two and subtly vie for their favor without overtly stating their intentions. This dynamic would push Hera further into the background, keeping her at a distance from the spotlight. While this might increase Sienna’s animosity toward her, Sienna would be powerless to act against Hera, as the situation was already working against her own interests.

Hera had anticipated this level of protectiveness from the male leads the moment she realized she had captured their interest. With their unwavering support, she knew she could simply sit back and relax, confident that her position was safe and far from danger.

Sienna was exactly as Hera remembered from the novel—a minor villainess meant to serve as cannon fodder in Zhane’s arc. Her role was to stir up a bit of discord between Alice and Zhane, creating a sense of urgency that would eventually push Alice to openly admit her feelings for Zhane, just as she did for the other male leads.

Sienna, having grown up in a sheltered and pampered environment, has always been surrounded by people who fawned over her due to her family’s wealth. This behavior only intensified when news of her engagement to the Everetts spread, making her accustomed to constant respect and admiration from those around her.

Now that she has become the target of ridicule, the humiliation and anger she feels are tenfold. However, she has no outlet for her frustration, as she can’t even get close to Hera, let alone say anything to shift attention away. It seems as though everyone is determined to tear her down, leaving her feeling utterly trapped.

She despised Hera for stealing all the attention and even fantasized about being with Zhane, despite knowing her status paled in comparison. 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 and complicated 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, offering comfort. “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 place.

The Korean dignitary understood that Dave’s words were a deliberate warning. It was a clear signal that Dave was finished playing passive, and if he crossed the line again, Dave wouldn’t hesitate to put him in his place.

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 plate 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, comically attempted to downplay 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, and laughter returned to their group as they made their way to the Dragon Palace 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 the lake. 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 to compete 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 Palace 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.