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.

was buzzing with anticipation, some eager to pin the blame on Sylvia even

Ms. Simpson is also representing your school in the

camera panned to Bridget, who dabbed at her eyes, biting her lips

stare and replied,

aggressively, "Are you scared? According to sources from your school, you secured 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. Did you then incite others to

The argument seemed well-prepared.

"Who's your source? Care to confront

reporter choked, "We can't reveal

you have no proof. Could I accuse you

humiliated, glared at Sylvia,

cough sounded. Tristan's glance silenced the whispers around, and he stated authoritatively,

speech, eyes scanning

over the crowd,

Tristan's voice, laden with

darkening, his eyes intimidating, his voice cold and

there's no point in

"Isn't there?"

speech, 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 chasm that could never be bridged. She turned to face the inquisitive