Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 9

The hall was vast, yet Rupert's presence seemed to freeze the air around him, making it hard for anyone to breathe.

He remained silent. But everyone knew he was furious.

He took out a cigarette pack, lit one up, and exhaled a cloud of smoke that veiled his face. Through the hazy mist, his gaze on Sylvia was unreadable.

"Get lost."

Tristan then waved his hand in displeasure.

Naomi helped Sylvia to her feet. Sylvia pulled her hand away, standing tall and firm in the center of the hall, her voice strong and clear, "Since I'm such an inconvenience here, I'll move out at once. Grandpa, thank you for your care over the years." She was determined to leave with her dignity intact, unlike in her past life, where she was always cautious and fearful.

With that, Sylvia turned and left.

The looks that followed her were dangerous and sharp.

...

Stepping out of the hall, Sylvia felt the wave of nausea and dizziness hit her, side effects of the amount of the pills she'd been taking.

fainting. When Sylvia awoke, Naomi was sitting by her bedside, eyes rimmed

Naomi slapped her, not hard, more like

to death? You can't

can never escape the Garcia family if I don't take

before to mingle with the wealthy young men. Marrying well could

"Like you?"

of comfortable life was

her tongue. Then, the door opened, and Edwin came in

awake. Have some soup, it'll make your stomach feel

side of the family, disdaining his second son for his simplicity and for marrying a woman with a daughter. Sylvia apologized, "I'm sorry for causing

nonsense!"

patted her shoulder gently, "The doctor said Sylvia needs to take her medication. Go get some

up instantly

"Do you

you and Mom. I'm grown up; I

more capable." Edwin took out a card and slipped it under Sylvia's pillow, "Don't refuse it. You'll need money out there. The pin is your birthday. Be careful. If anything happens, call me or your

at Sylvia, suddenly uttering, "Rupert acted so strange today, totally

do you mean?" Sylvia asked,

If Dad hadn't ordered someone to bring you back, you'd still be at his place." "What?" Sylvia clutched the blanket