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

your school in the jewelry design contest. Are you jealous of Ms. Simpson, hence the

at her eyes, biting her lips

with a stare and replied, "I'll answer

According to sources from your school, you secured your contest spot by maliciously slandering Ms. Simpson online. It was only the school's

The argument seemed well-prepared.

your source? Care to

reporter choked, "We can't reveal

no proof. Could I

humiliated, glared at Sylvia, silent threats veiling

glance silenced the whispers around, and he stated authoritatively,

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

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

with

darkening, his eyes intimidating, his voice cold and

there's no point

"Isn't there?"

eyes locked with Rupert's, tore the paper to shreds, and threw them to the air, the pieces fluttering between her and Rupert like a