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.

towards Rupert, her voice filled with feigned distress, "Rupert, please don't mind this.

at Sylvia with an

his indifference, simply stared back blandly, stepping forward and asking, "So,

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

a moment before carefully saying,

as her words fell, Naomi, who was usually timid, burst forth in defense

those online reports accusing my daughter of slandering Bridget

daughter, you can't just make baseless accusations. How will

would make sarcastic remarks on her holding no place in the

time this reporter appears, negative reports about you flood the internet within a day. Oh, and those accounts that were harassing you? I reported every single one, and