Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 50

Sylvia was caught off guard, a flush of embarrassment spreading across her cheeks.

Unbeknownst to her, the sliver of an open door had perfectly framed her reflection in the mirror. Her long hair cascaded down her fair back, and the barely concealed breasts that were covered by her arm danced with every movement, as if on the brink of revelation. Rupert clenched his ring on his thumb, a gesture that barely contained a surge of impulse.

Outmatched, Sylvia forcefully shut the door. Gazing at the man's shirt and trousers, she had no other choice but to don them.

When she emerged from the bathroom, Rupert was lounging on the sofa, nursing a cup of coffee.

The aroma of the coffee filled the room, instantly soothing the mind.

Sylvia approached, and perhaps it was the heat of the coffee, but Rupert spilled half of it after a swift glance in her direction.

Yet, he quickly regained composure, simply stating, "Have some coffee."

setting down his cup, he excused himself for a shower, leaving the conversation

cup, Sylvia took a sip, only to spit it out immediately. Staring at the clear liquid, she

fact, it was an expensive variety, something most families

disdain stemmed from a painful memory, a time when she was told by someone she didn't deserve such luxuries. Upon her arrival at the Garcia Manor, she had little knowledge about things there and found herself often making blunders despite her cautiousness. Seeing her mother and Edwin exhausted from social engagements, she thought to brew some coffee as a gesture of comfort. Venturing into the pantry, overwhelmed by the vast selection, she picked at random. But no sooner had she begun to brew

so greedy? Is this something you think you deserve to drink?

mother, you think you're special? Even your mother

as she frantically explained that Edwin had

pot of coffee. This incident, witnessed by Rupert who

had still prepared this particular coffee for her, as if to remind her of her burdensome status within the Garcia family. Perhaps he

my favorite coffee is

the name of the coffee, Sylvia felt even colder. So, this coffee was

for