Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 39

"Tristan. He's the one who believed in my innocence, setting up this press conference for me. Even though I'm not related by blood to the Garcias, they've treated me...like one of their own. They would never hurt me. Thank you, I really appreciate it." Sylvia bowed deeply to Tristan.

Despite his irritation, Tristan found himself at a loss for words, managing only to nod and smile at the crowd.

But it must be said, this move quickly defused the negative public opinion facing the Garcia family.

After the press conference, Sylvia quickly caught up with the female officer, expressing her gratitude, "Thank you. If it hadn't been for you, finding the evidence from Julian, I would have..."

The officer asked her colleague to lead the others to the car, and then turned to Sylvia with a troubled look.

"It wasn't me. It was Rupert's doing. He was the one who sent people to find those girls in just one night. Before, when we tried to approach them, none of them wanted to mess with the Zooks." "What are you saying?" Sylvia gasped, her breath hitching.

"Julian's going down this time, there's no escaping his sentence. The Zooks can't protect him now."

The officer's tone was heavy with implication.

to have Julian pay for all his crimes, not

her on the shoulder, "I think you should talk to Rupert. There seems to be a misunderstanding between you

officer had already left. Turning around, she saw Rupert coming out. Hesitating

hid behind a nearby plant. Peering through the

in the dappled light, silently lighting a cigarette. The smoke swirled around

chase, "Was this

and continued coolly, "A settlement only solves problems temporarily. I don't like being threatened by the Zooks. Sylvia kicking up a fuss is just enough to shake up them. Why settle

this, Tristan nodded, "You played it

won't be harmed," Rupert said,

to protect her, that's your call. But as for Sylvia,

people who don't matter." Rupert continued to smoke leisurely,

a look, satisfied

leave you to

"Sure."

Rupert continued to