Filed to story: Seventeen Heartbreaks: When Love Has No Voice
Following their dinner, Landon drove Leila and Sophie back to the filming set. Before Leila and Sophie exited the car, he mentioned that he had left gifts for them.
True to his word, when Leila entered her room, she found Landon’s gifts waiting. The presents were a collection of garments and jewelry, each piece custom-made by renowned designers using fine materials. Included were also some valuable herbs recommended for inclusion in everyday meals.
Landon was considerate of Leila’s pregnancy, which concerned him. He had initially intended to hire nutritionists to look after Leila and Sophie, but the TV crew had turned down his offer. After all, the program was broadcast live. The fallout from filming and distributing it could lead people to perceive Leila as overly fragile.
Landon had gone out of his way to prepare numerous gifts for Sophie as well. Sophie, overjoyed, eagerly inquired about when Landon would next come to visit.
Just as Leila was about to respond, a burst of exclamations erupted. “Oh my! Saniya, did your boyfriend get you all these gifts?” Curious, Leila turned to see Saniya clutching a gift box that cradled a set of exquisite jade jewelry.
Leila’s expression turned grave. If her memory served her correctly, this was one of Ruth’s latest designs. With the Turner Group now thriving, its reputation and prices had climbed. Although not yet a luxury brand, it was gaining distinction.
Ruth had earlier proposed to Leila the idea of elevating the Turner Group to the status of a high-end luxury label. This particular set was part of that ambition. Leila had previously seen and approved the design, giving her approval for production. The jade in the set was of the finest quality, rendering the jewelry significantly valuable.
Ruth had only two sets available, and her initial plan was to give one to Leila. But Leila declined the offer; selling them seemed a better option since she was already well-stocked with jewelry. Thanks to effective marketing and Landon’s efforts to drum up interest among the elite, the sets quickly garnered hundreds of reservations. Yet somehow, Saniya had acquired one.
Elaine, a seasoned movie star familiar with the luxuries of high fashion and jewelry, raised the question that was on Leila’s mind: How did Saniya come into possession of one of the sets?
Blushing, Saniya looked down. “I’m not entirely sure of all the details. It was a gift, after all. To find out how he managed to buy it, I’d have to ask him.”
Her agent chimed in with a playful grin, “It’s a present from her boyfriend.”
Debbie remarked with genuine admiration, “Saniya, your boyfriend really knows how to make you feel special, even when he can’t be here in person. Sending gifts like these is such a sweet gesture.”
Leila’s interest waned, not keen on probing further into Saniya’s romantic life. Yet, a comment Debbie made earlier sparked a memory. Saniya’s boyfriend was linked to the wealthy Kensington family.
Curious, Leila resolved to ask Ruth later whether any of the sets were sold, particularly to someone with the last name Kensington. Just then, Saniya’s gaze lifted to meet Leila’s. A sneer twisted her lips as she threw a challenging look Leila’s way.
Unruffled, Leila simply smiled back and nodded politely. Saniya, with calculated grace, turned toward Elaine. “Elaine, you’ve shown me nothing but kindness during our time here. I can’t imagine dealing with any more bullying without your support. Please, take this necklace as a token of my gratitude,” she said, extending the piece toward Elaine.
Earlier that day, Elaine’s perception of Saniya had shifted following a revealing incident. It dawned on Elaine that Saniya might not be the innocent figure she portrayed. Yet, Elaine hadn’t anticipated such a lavish gesture-an exquisite jade necklace. The quality of the jade was unmistakable, potentially as valuable as a house if sold on its own.
As they warmed up for the show, not yet officially started, the live broadcast was already drawing a crowd. Viewers tuning in caught the moment Saniya handed the pricey jewelry to Elaine.
“Wow, what does that necklace cost? It’s part of a set, isn’t it? Saniya’s really outdone herself today.”
“Come on, guys. It’s just Saniya being Saniya. She’s sweet, a bit emotional, but always generous with her friends. She really stands out in the entertainment world.”
“Even if she’s been a bit dramatic before, today she was nothing but kind and generous. No one can say anything bad about that. Wait, am I the only one curious about who was bullying her? She thanked Elaine for stepping in and protecting her.”
Elaine was bewildered, her mind racing as she grasped the gravity of the situation. She shook her head firmly. “No, Saniya, this is too precious. I simply can’t take it.”
Saniya responded with a warm smile, “Elaine, what’s this compared to our friendship? I’m just grateful to have met such a wonderful person as you and to call you my friend. Please, if you refuse it, it’ll really hurt my feelings.”
Moved by Saniya’s words, Elaine nodded, her acceptance mingled with tears welling in her eyes. She tenderly clasped the necklace. It was clear Saniya had charmed Elaine.
Leila diverted her attention, guiding Sophie indoors, deliberately ignoring the emotional exchange. However, Saniya was quick to follow. “Miss Nixon,” she called out, flashing an unsettling smile with her back to the camera. “I couldn’t help but notice you seemed a bit off. Did I do something to upset you? Since we’re going to be roommates, I think it’s important we clear the air now.”
Saniya seemed slightly nervous around Leila, almost as if she feared her. Elaine was a perfect example of the old saying, “Gifts blind the eyes.” Noticing Saniya’s discomfort, Elaine stepped in, her expression one of clear disapproval as she looked at Leila. “Saniya has been more than patient with you. Why can’t you just leave her alone?”
Leila felt cornered. She regretted signing up for this show and wanted to confess to Ewing that she was struggling to connect with Saniya and that she couldn’t help him. Debbie, who had been trailing behind them, chimed in, hoping to clarify the situation. “Leila didn’t actually say or do anything just now. Could there be some kind of misunderstanding here?”
Tears began to well up in Saniya’s eyes as she gazed at Leila. “It’s not just what she says-it’s the little things, like rolling her eyes. Miss Nixon, it’s okay to speak up if something’s bothering you. Keeping it inside isn’t good for either of us. I’m really just afraid of being bullied again. I can’t stand the thought of being singled out.” Saniya’s apparent heartfelt admission made both the onlookers and Elaine sympathize with her once more..
Leila grasped the dynamics of the predicament perfectly. Without an apology from her, Saniya was unlikely to back down.
While Leila had no desire to provoke someone with Saniya’s temperament, she wasn’t intimidated either. She stated firmly, “Miss Mason, please note that we are under surveillance. Every action of ours is being recorded. If you continue to insist, I’ll have to ask the staff to verify whether I truly rolled my eyes.”
Saniya froze, unable to form a reply. Instead, she broke into continuous sobs.
Elaine, ever committed to fairness, spoke up, addressing Saniya. “Don’t stress, Saniya. Let’s switch rooms. You can rest in mine.”
Saniya, startled by the suggestion, looked at Elaine in astonishment before quickly declining. “How can I accept that? It wouldn’t be fair. I can manage on my own. It’s alright, Elaine. Don’t worry about me.”
Her words, however, carried an undertone, as if sharing a room with Leila was an unbearable ordeal.
Elaine, undeterred, continued to push for the switch, even suggesting involving the director to settle the matter. This sent Saniya into a state of intense panic. She had only been using Elaine to complicate Leila’s life; she hadn’t intended to offend her outright. After all, Leila was a major investor, and it was clear the director would side with her.
Amid their discussion, Saniya’s grip faltered, and the box of jewelry she was holding slipped from her hands, hitting the floor with a sharp clatter.
The jewelry, made of jade, wasn’t likely to shatter entirely, but some damage or loss was inevitable. Confusion swept through the room as the group tried to make sense of what had just happened.
Sophie, ever curious, instinctively stepped behind Leila to get a better view of the unfolding drama.
The director, sensing potential gold for their reality TV show-a program built on conflict and controversy-motioned for the cameraman to zoom in. Whether it sparked outrage or debate among viewers, scenes like this always boosted ratings.
To his credit, the director had no malicious intent in capturing the incident, but he knew its value for the show’s audience.
When Saniya realized the mishap, she let out a piercing scream, her face blanching in shock. She looked utterly devastated.
Comments from viewers poured in, filled with sympathy for Saniya, lamenting the potential loss of such valuable items.
Elaine steadied Saniya, whose body trembled uncontrollably. Moments later, Saniya raised her tear-streaked face and locked eyes with Leila and Sophie.
Leila’s stomach churned uneasily, sensing trouble on the horizon. Her instincts proved correct when Saniya, still crying, pointed an accusing finger at Sophie.
“Sophie, I know you don’t like me, but why would you grab the box so aggressively? You broke something this valuable and didn’t even apologize. Is this how your mother raised you?”
Saniya’s voice wavered with emotion, each accusation striking like a blow. Leila was shocked, and Sophie stood completely dumbfounded.
Sophie frantically shook her head, cowering behind Leila. Her voice was a frightened whisper. “Mommy, she’s not telling the truth. I didn’t break anything. I was right behind you the whole time.”
A shadow fell over Leila’s expression. She leveled her gaze at Saniya. “Saniya, if you’re going to make such serious accusations, you need to have proof. You can’t just blame someone without evidence.”
Saniya’s lip quivered as she pointed directly at Sophie. “It was definitely her! She told me she was jealous of my beautiful things and yanked the box out of my hands. I didn’t even see it coming. The next thing I knew, the box was on the floor. How can a child harbor so much spite?”
Sophie was on the verge of tears. “Mommy, I swear it wasn’t me.”
Ignoring Saniya’s accusations, Leila calmly surveyed the room, seeking validation. “Did anyone see Sophie anywhere near her?”
Debbie hesitated before speaking. “From my perspective, Sophie was always a step behind you, Leila. It’s likely just a misunderstanding.”
Frustrated, Saniya snapped, “Someone snatched the box right out of my hands! These items were gifts from my boyfriend. They’re expensive! Why would I break them myself?”
Debbie, lacking concrete evidence, shot a concerned look at Leila. As merely a college student, Debbie often felt overshadowed by the more assertive personalities around her.
Elaine was at a loss. She hadn’t seen Sophie approach Saniya, but Saniya’s account sounded convincing. Perhaps the incident had slipped past her. After all, Sophie might have snatched the box when no one was paying attention.
Due to Saniya’s usual kindness, Elaine found it difficult to question her integrity. Mentally chastising herself for her momentary doubts about Saniya, Elaine stepped forward and cleared her throat.
“Sophie is just a child, and it’s natural for children to be a bit unruly,” Elaine said diplomatically. “Saniya is understandably upset. Sophie apparently misbehaved and refused to apologize. That’s not proper behavior. Leila, as her mother, it’s your responsibility to guide her. Apologize to Saniya. While she’s angry now, your apology might defuse the situation.”
Leila’s face darkened. “Indeed, proper guidance is essential.” She caressed Sophie’s hair gently as the girl blinked back tears.
“Mommy, I truly didn’t do it. Do you trust me?” Sophie asked hesitantly, her eyes filled with desperation.
Leila’s stern expression softened into a warm smile. “Of course, my love. I know you well. And remember, you should never apologize if you’re not at fault. Do you understand?”
Sophie nodded, tears clinging to her lashes, while Saniya’s eyes widened in shock. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she clutched Elaine’s hand tightly.
Speculative whispers filled the air:
“Oh, goodness. Can you believe how she’s raising her child?”
“What kind of adult will this little girl turn into? Despite her cute appearance now, with such a shameless mother…”