Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 49

She patted down her newly donned suit jacket, applying a bit of pressure only to squeeze out water.

How could it be this wet just by wearing it? Sylvia turned to glance at Rupert. His left side was completely soaked, the shirt clinging to his body, outlining a physique many would envy. What happened?

On the drive, Rupert had the driver crank up the heating, tapping on the rear screen twice with his fingertips.

Initially chilled to the bone, Sylvia felt warmth envelop her from all directions; even beneath her felt comforting. She lowered her head, puzzled by Rupert's intentions. Eventually, after a roundabout journey, Rupert brought her back to his apartment.

"Go take a shower."

Rupert fetched a pair of women's slippers from the closet for Sylvia.

At a glance, Sylvia immediately remembered the personal items in Rupert's apartment that belonged to Bridget. These had to be Bridget's slippers.

"I'm not wearing those."

Barefoot, Sylvia stepped inside, the cold floor making her wish she could tiptoe around. Rupert watched her tiptoeing, his eyebrows slightly raised, but he said nothing.

down. With a competition ahead, she couldn't afford to fall ill at a

to wear - no towel, bathrobe, or clothes. Standing naked, she paused for

her wet clothes back on was out of the question; it would undo

reluctantly

No one answered.

Rupert!" she raised her voice

suspected Rupert was doing this on purpose! Catching sight of a cellphone on the sink, she hesitated before dialing

Decided to call me after all?" His

conflicted, mumbled,

"What?" Rupert teased.

"There's...no towel."

""Couldn't hear."

Nothing!" Sylvia answered

Outside.

his gaze briefly flicking to the pile of clothes beside

formed on his lips. He wondered how Sylvia would

In a position of power, he knew well what lines not to cross. Even with Bridget by his side for so many years, he