Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 32

"It's not that she and Julian are different; it's that she and I are different. She's like an untouchable saint, your lady, while I'm nobody. So, I shouldn't have competed against Bridget, shouldn't have resisted or tried to justify myself, right? I should just bow my head, accept my fate, and admit I was wrong, is that it? Have you considered what would happen to me if I did all that? Would you all just leave me be then? So, what am I supposed to do? Die?"

Sylvia's words were sharp, yet she laughed after speaking them.

She lifted her injured hand towards Rupert, shaking it slightly, "A few millimeters more, and a nerve could've been severed. Disappointed, huh? If my hand was rendered useless, then your Bridget would be the only one representing our school in the contest. Then, all the online chatter would paint me as the villain who got what I deserved, and Tristan could use that to cast me aside, while your Bridget remains the untouchable goddess.

You never care about what I say or do; you're only after the outcomes you desire. And why waste time pretending to talk about punishment?

Has Julian never harmed anyone in secret? Doesn't he deserve punishment? But you force me to reconcile. I've done nothing, and yet you ask me to be punished. Why? Tell me why!" "Because Bridget felt wronged!"

Sylvia's eyes were ablaze as she stared directly at Rupert, who remained motionless, silent, as cold as a stranger.

Suddenly, Sylvia felt weary, "Just go, take good care of your Bridget. We were never connected."

seemingly harboring an elusive emotion. But in a moment,

talking? Since you refuse to bow, you can stay here

indifferently straightened

silhouette, no light in sight. She looked up at Rupert, tears

and left without hesitation. Watching the door close, Sylvia lifted her head but couldn't stop the

chose, the

...

smoking quietly while gazing at distance.

with a grunt. Orson continued, "Mr.

from

his cigarette, Rupert

...

sat in silence until the door

entered with a kind gesture, "You haven't eaten all day. I brought you some food; you should eat. Especially you've been injured." "Thank you," Sylvia