Chapter 20: The Storm Brews

**Elena's POV:**

The next morning dawned gray and overcast, mirroring my mood as I arrived at the office. The clouds seemed to press down on me, adding to the weight of the threats I faced. My thoughts were consumed by David's menacing visit and the growing tension between Sienna and me. I needed to focus on my work, but every task felt like a mountain to climb.

As I entered my office, I was greeted by the usual hum of activity—architects discussing plans, assistants bustling about, and the constant noise of a busy office. I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the day ahead. My first task was a meeting with Victor, which I had been dreading since the previous week.

Victor's presence was like a storm cloud on the horizon. Our interactions had always been tense, and his recent advances toward Sienna had only made things worse. I walked into the conference room, where Victor was already waiting, his expression unreadable.

"Good morning, Elena," Victor said smoothly, his tone hiding a hint of arrogance.

"Morning, Victor," I replied curtly as I took my seat. I was determined not to let him get under my skin.

Victor leaned forward, studying me with a piercing gaze. "I wanted to discuss the upcoming project and how we can collaborate more effectively. I'm sure you're aware of the importance of this venture."

I nodded, my eyes narrowing slightly. "Yes, I'm aware. Let's focus on making sure everything is in order."

As the meeting progressed, I could feel Victor's gaze lingering on me. It was unsettling, and I found myself constantly on edge. I sensed that Victor had an agenda beyond the project, but I was determined not to let him see my discomfort.

**Sienna's POV:**

I was busy preparing for the presentation that would showcase our latest design. I had been working closely with Elena and was excited about the project, despite the tension that seemed to hover between us. The previous evening's conversation with Sebby had left me more determined to find out what was troubling Elena.

As I organized my notes and reviewed my slides, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss. I had noticed Victor's unsettling behavior, and it made me uneasy. My thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door.

"Come in," I called out.

Amelia walked in, a cheerful smile on her face. "Hey, Sienna! I heard you've been working hard on the presentation. Need any help?"

I smiled at the sight of my friend. "Thanks, Amelia. I could use a fresh pair of eyes. I've been going over this presentation for hours."

Amelia took a seat and began reviewing the slides. "Looks great so far. But you seem a bit distracted. Everything okay?"

I hesitated before speaking. "I'm just worried about Elena. She's been acting so distant, and I feel like there's something she's not telling me. And then there's Victor…"

Amelia's expression turned serious. "Victor? That guy's a piece of work. I've heard some pretty sketchy things about him. Are you sure he's not causing problems?"

I nodded. "I'm sure. I just wish Elena would open up about what's going on. It's like she's carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders."

**Victor's POV:**

I watched as Elena and Sienna worked closely together, my eyes narrowing with interest. I had always been drawn to Elena's sharp intellect and commanding presence, but it was Sienna who had captured my attention recently. The way she interacted with Elena—her warmth and support—irritated me.

I had been planning my moves carefully, waiting for the right moment to assert my influence. I knew that causing a rift between Elena and Sienna could serve my interests, and I was prepared to use any means necessary to achieve that goal.

As I left the meeting with Elena, I caught sight of Sienna reviewing documents in the conference room. An idea began to form in my mind—one that could destabilize Elena's position and bring Sienna under my control.

**David's POV:**

I was seething as I paced my office, replaying my confrontation with Elena. I knew she was trying to keep me at bay, but my determination to control her only grew stronger. The USB drive was just the beginning; I had other strategies in mind to keep her under my thumb.

My thoughts were interrupted by a knock on my door. It was my private investigator, a shrewd and trustworthy ally.

"Come in," I said tersely.

The investigator entered, holding a folder. "I've gathered some information on Elena's recent activities and her interactions with Sienna. It seems they're getting closer, which could be problematic for our plans."

My eyes gleamed with malice. "Keep monitoring them. I want to know every detail of their interactions. And make sure Sienna remains unaware of our involvement."

The investigator nodded and left the office. I turned my attention back to the USB drive, plotting my next move. My plan to blackmail Elena was taking shape, and I was determined to use every advantage I had to achieve my goals.

**Elena's POV:**

Back at my apartment, I tried to relax, but the weight of my situation pressed heavily on me. I was grateful for Sienna's support, but I couldn't shake the feeling of dread that clung to me. The storm was brewing, and I hoped that meeting with Sienna would provide some clarity.

I glanced at my phone and saw a new message from Sienna.

**Sienna's Message:**

*Can we meet up tonight? I feel like we need to talk. I'm worried about you.*

My heart sank as I read the message. I knew Sienna was perceptive and concerned, but I was hesitant to open up about everything that was happening. Still, I couldn't ignore the sincerity in her words.

**Elena's Response:**

*Sure. Let's meet at our favorite café in an hour.*

As I prepared to leave for the café, my thoughts were a jumble of worry and anticipation. I hoped that our meeting would provide some clarity, but I also feared that it might lead to even more complications.

The storm was brewing, and Elena could only hope that she and Sienna would weather it together.