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.

to pin the blame on Sylvia even before

we heard Ms. Simpson is also representing your school in the jewelry design contest. Are you

dabbed at her eyes, biting her lips

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

your contest spot by maliciously slandering Ms. Simpson online. It was only the school's reluctance to waste Ms. Simpson's talent that got her an additional spot.

The argument seemed well-prepared.

your source? Care to confront

choked, "We can't reveal our

proof. Could I accuse you of

cornered and humiliated, glared at

Tristan's glance silenced the whispers

camera refocused on Sylvia, she calmly unfolded her speech, eyes scanning the first line. The opening line read,

her gaze sweeping over the crowd, and began slowly, "I

with anger, bore into

stood, his expression darkening, his eyes intimidating, his voice cold and

there's no point

"Isn't there?"

pieces fluttering between her and Rupert like a chasm that could never be bridged. She turned to face the inquisitive