Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 22

Before Sylvia could even protest, Naomi had already hopped in her car and sped off.

With a quiet sigh, Sylvia turned to face Julian and said apologetically, "I'm sorry, I think it's best to be clear about this. I wasn't really keen on this blind date thing." Julian offered a smile, "Same here. But given the mission Mrs. Naomi assigned us, how about we catch a movie? It's the least we can do to appease our folks." Hearing Julian's suggestion, Sylvia didn't hesitate to agree.

As Julian was booking the tickets on his phone, he casually asked, "Ms. Lloyd, where do you stay? I'll see if there's a cinema close by, make it easier for you to get back later."

Seeing Julian's gentlemanly and considerate demeanor, Sylvia replied truthfully, "I'm currently staying on campus. As long as I can get back by ten, it's fine."

"All set then," Julian confirmed smoothly.

Sylvia, not wanting to take advantage, offered, "How much? I'll pay you back."

Julian looked at her, "Are you really going to do me like that?"

Sylvia offered a compromise, "Then let me buy you a drink."

Julian realized he had booked the wrong time slot. 7:20 pm had mistakenly become 8:20 pm. With the movie running over an hour, making it back to campus in time would be a tight

an excuse to skip the movie when

drive you back. We'll make it in time.

She had a competition to focus on and didn't want to endure Naomi's lectures on

Throughout the movie, Sylvia hardly paid attention, frequently

ended, Sylvia urged Julian to leave

back to campus, unsure of if it was her illusion, Sylvia felt that Julian

the time passed

still worn a smile,

just two minutes to

Sylvia was about to open the door, she heard a click - the

smile still tender, yet his eyes devoid of any warmth. He licked his lips, his

coldly, seemingly unbothered, and lightly tapped the car's

"Check your phone again."

at her phone to find it had turned into

That way, the car