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.

Sylvia awoke, Naomi was sitting by her bedside, eyes rimmed with

her awake, Naomi slapped her, not hard, more

me to death? You can't just mess

pointless. I can never escape the Garcia family if I don't

with the wealthy young men. Marrying well could have given you

"Like you?"

kind of comfortable life was

Then, the door opened, and Edwin came

awake. Have some soup, it'll make

a cut on Edwin's ear, likely from something sharp. Tristan must be behind this. He never liked their side of the family, disdaining his second son for his simplicity and for marrying a woman with a daughter.

nonsense!"

her shoulder gently, "The doctor said Sylvia needs to

stood up instantly and

beside the bed, Edwin sighed, "Do you really have to

for you and Mom. I'm grown up; I

it under Sylvia's pillow, "Don't refuse it. You'll need money

"Rupert acted so strange today,

mean?" Sylvia asked,

Rupert actually rushed out, carrying you away. If Dad hadn't ordered someone to bring you back, you'd still be at his place." "What?" Sylvia