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.

competition ahead, she couldn't afford to

nothing to wear - no towel, bathrobe, or clothes. Standing naked, she paused for a

would undo her shower and likely make her sick due to the temperature

Sylvia reluctantly called out,

No one answered.

raised her voice

sight of a

to call me after all?" His voice was low and

conflicted, mumbled, "There's...I

"What?" Rupert teased.

"There's...no towel."

""Couldn't hear."

Nothing!" Sylvia answered

Outside.

couch smoking, his gaze briefly flicking to the pile of clothes

of smoke, a barely noticeable smile formed on his

In a position of power, he knew well what lines not to cross. Even with Bridget by his side for so many years, he refrained from intimacy until marriage. The only time he got tricked, was