Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 21

Feeling the weight of someone's gaze, Sylvia turned her head.

It was Rupert.

Dressed in a sleek black suit, his long fingers resting against his temple, the ruby ring on his finger catching the sunlight with a hint of a chilling thirst. Bridget was leaning close by his side. It appeared Bridget was whispering something, their proximity and Rupert's soft expression spoke volumes. Sylvia averted her gaze, feigning calm as she lowered her hand.

"Thank you."

"Don't mention it." The man followed her gaze, "That's Mr. Rupert Garcia, isn't it? He really adores his fiancée, to personally drop her off." Indeed. It was apparent to everyone Rupert's preference for Bridget. Except, in her past life, she was like a fool, waiting for him, loving him.

Just as Sylvia was about to nod, Naomi tugged at her sleeve.

"Since we're here, you should go say hello to Rupert."

"I'd rather not." Sylvia shrugged off the hand, making to leave. "You..."

Naomi's reproach was cut short by Bridget's sudden exclamation.

"Naomi, Sylvia, what a coincidence. And this gentleman is?"

Rupert, sized up the man beside

Bridget as a schemer, and after the ordeal with the

boasting slightly, "This is Julian Zook, from the Zook family. A

emphasis on "we" was loaded with meaning. Sylvia didn't have a chance to intervene before she felt the gaze across the table darkened. Julian

him, lingering instead on Sylvia, a hint of mockery lifting the

over Julian with

her spine, her palms sweating. What was meant to

Julian. In Rupert's presence, Julian was

Bridget didn't reveal her scorn, wearing a soft smile instead, "Mr. Zook is such a catch, Sylvia. You should hold on tight. A quiet, simple life is the real deal. No need to think about all that unnecessary drama." Her insinuation made Julian frown

hold back her indignation, was about to retort when Sylvia pulled at her. Engaging in an argument would only play

his expression nonchalant. He knew better than anyone who she had

was akin to affirming Bridget's

pulling Naomi along, "Mom, Mr.

then opened the car doors

a

sorry. Mr. Garcia intervened, securing an extra competition

"I understand."

outcome wasn't actually surprising. Yet, she felt breathless and powerless, as if struggling within a vortex,

thought she had gained an upper hand. Yet, she was still overwhelmingly suppressed. How long would fate

...