Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 35

Rupert didn't reply, his gaze sliding past Sylvia, his demeanor chilling like the frost of midwinter, an unspoken barrier against intrusion.

Sylvia couldn't help but sneer internally. Classic Rupert.

Just then, a commanding voice cut through the air from behind her, "Sylvia, what are you doing just standing there? Everyone is waiting for you."

It was Tristan.

Turning around, Sylvia noticed Tristan was flanked by Naomi and Edwin, two individuals who usually wouldn't find themselves at the center of attention, except apparently in circumstances such as these. Clearly, Tristan was worried Sylvia might back out of going on stage.

"Sylvia..."

Face grim, Edwin attempted to shield Sylvia.

Sylvia gave him a quick shake of the head, "Edwin, just stay with my mom, okay?"

Under Tristan's warning gaze, Sylvia took the stage. Even Julian, bandages and all, had made it, looking smug among the crowd.

anticipation, some eager to pin the

Simpson is also representing your school in the jewelry design contest. Are you jealous of Ms. Simpson,

panned to Bridget, who dabbed at

a stare and replied, "I'll answer you in a

aggressively, "Are you scared? According to sources from your school, you secured your contest spot by maliciously slandering Ms. Simpson online. It was

The argument seemed well-prepared.

your source? Care

reporter choked, "We

Could I accuse you

cornered and humiliated, glared at Sylvia, silent threats veiling his

the

her speech, eyes scanning the first line. The opening

the crowd, and

laden with

stood, his expression darkening, his eyes intimidating, his

there's no point in

"Isn't there?"

them to the air, the pieces fluttering between her and Rupert like a chasm that could never be bridged. She