Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 37

Sylvia's composure took everyone by surprise.

This once timid and overlooked member of the Garcia family no longer spoke with her head bowed low. She stood on stage, claiming her space, her gaze clear and unwavering. It swept over Rupert's indifferent and dangerous face without a hint of retreat. As the situation took a sharp turn, all eyes were on Vincent and Bridget.

Vincent, feeling uncertain, instinctively looked towards Bridget for guidance. Bridget frowned slightly and shot him a look.

Vincent spoke up, his voice loud and defensive, "Ms. Lloyd, just because I asked you a few questions, doesn't mean you can slander Ms. Simpson and me, right?"

Eyes reddened, Bridget said, "Sylvia, I know you're upset that the school fought for a spot for me in the competition. I just wanted an apology. I've already talked to the police about settling this matter. If you insist on making a scene, then I'll step down. Please, let's not cause any more trouble for the Garcia family and Rupert."

Retreating to advance was Bridget's most common tactic, her pretty, gentle face often invoking a protective instinct in others.

around nodded approvingly towards Bridget, who then leaned slightly towards Rupert, her voice filled with feigned distress, "Rupert, please don't mind this. I

looked at Sylvia

"So, Vincent, you and Ms. Simpson don't know each other

confidently replied, "Of course. If I had met someone as beautiful and elegant

ponder for a moment before carefully saying, "We have never met,

who was usually timid, burst forth in

in secret. All those online reports accusing

gasped, and then choked up, "Mrs. Naomi Garcia, even if you want to save your daughter, you can't just make baseless accusations. How will you face everyone in

make sarcastic remarks on her holding no place in the Garcia family. She didn't waste words, pulling

time this reporter appears, negative reports about you flood the internet within a day. Oh, and