Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 10

They'd built a private park that surrounded the estate, which, on rare occasions, would open its gates for public events. Yet, there was no subway lines, bus routes, even taxis were barely spotted.

Sylvia's quickest route to a train station was a solid twenty-minute walk away.

She battled against the chilly breeze under the streetlights. She had only been walking for a few minutes when the blare of a car horn approached her. Instinctively, she stepped aside, but to her surprise, the vehicle pulled up right next to her. "Ms. Lloyd, please get in."

A familiar face jutted out as the car window rolled down. It was Orson, Rupert's assistant.

Sylvia was stunned for a moment, her gaze flickering to the backseat where she caught sight of a hand adorned with a red-stoned ring tapping impatiently on a knee. Rupert.

She wanted nothing more to do with him, shaking her head, "No thanks. Drive safe."

Pulling her backpack closer, she continued on her way, while Orson swiftly got out from behind and blocked her path.

good for you to be seen lugging your suitcase around. If you refuse, I'm afraid I'll have

life and had no illusions about the lengths he

able to live her second chance at life

passenger side, only to be ushered

noticed the strong scent of alcohol filling the car. Glancing over suspiciously, she saw Rupert's imposing figure reclined in the seat, his eyes half-close, his face partially hidden in shadow under the dim light, exuding danger and austerity.

of emotion but weighed heavily on Sylvia's heart. After quite a while, she finally recognized the feeling, extraordinarily similar to the piece he'd say as punishing her in the

It was Naomi.

the opportunity. However, Rupert's gaze fixed on her,

you to make you run away like this?" Naomi's voice broke with desperation, each word revealing her helplessness. She, too, was aware of her being

better to have a man

decipher his reaction. But she had

other hand, uttered firmly, "Don't try to play dumb. I'm doing this for your

I've got