Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 42

It felt like how she nestled in his arms at that wild night.

Rupert inexplicably lifted his hand, intending to caress her cheek, but his fingers curled back just before touching her. In the end, he lowered his hand.

At that moment, his phone buzzed with a new message.

Rupert frowned slightly and got up to leave.

...

Sylvia was utterly exhausted.

Ever since her unexpected second chance at life began, she'd been on edge, the mental strain making her sleep anything but peaceful. Especially since she felt like someone was watching her.

window, a lit cigarette in hand, its glow flickering

when she opened her eyes, she was met with

her presence, "Hello, I'm the officer handling your case. I've come to discuss some

sit up. "What's

has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. This means his testimony is now irrelevant. You're off the hook, and he'll be transferred to a psychiatric facility since Ms.

can someone just become schizophrenic out of the blue?" Sylvia's face turned pale, struggling to accept this turn of events. She knew

was above board, certified

someone with connections and influence could orchestrate something

had to be related to Bridget. That

breathe. Reality had dealt her another harsh blow. If she wanted to stand a chance against Bridget, she'd have to confront Rupert. But how could

some rest," the officer said with

was about to be engulfed by an all-consuming darkness. After what felt like an eternity,

wants you to come over for dinner at the Garcia family home this weekend. Don't turn him down; it's his

that, Sylvia lay back down, aimlessly scrolling through