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

the jewelry design contest. Are you jealous of Ms.

camera panned to Bridget, who dabbed at her

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

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

The argument seemed well-prepared.

back, "Who's your source? Care to confront

"We can't reveal

proof. Could

glared at Sylvia, silent threats veiling

glance silenced the whispers around, and

calmly unfolded her speech, eyes scanning

the crowd, and began slowly, "I

Tristan's voice, laden with anger, bore into

his eyes

there's no point in

"Isn't there?"

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