Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 70

Sylvia looked out at the audience, her face a mask of indifference as she accepted the heavy trophy.

It felt as if invisible hands were strangling her, the sensation of suffocation whispering how difficult it was to escape a fate already written, especially when facing an opponent with connections. But then, she tightened her grip on the trophy.

In her past life, she hadn't even qualified to compete. This time, she had snatched the trophy right from under Bridget's nose. At least, that damned destiny was beginning to shift. Someday, it would align with her desires.

Sylvia lifted her head, smiling at the audience and, more specifically, at the owner of a certain pair of eyes.

Rupert.

No one could bring her down, unless...she fell herself.

Down in the audience, Orson approached Rupert, leaning in to report.

"Mr. Garcia, it's done." "Okay."

Rupert held his coffee cup and sipped, his gaze met Sylvia's, his displeasure hidden behind a squint. Her smile, radiant under the spotlight, drew the gazes of all men. He could even hear the men beside him joking softly, plotting how to ask Sylvia for her contact information later.

gaze silenced

neared its end, Bridget, bubbling with excitement, headed for the interview area, eager to let the world know she had

another step, Eloise's voice filled the

I have decided that the top three will be

hallucinating. It wasn't until Christine, who placed third, let out a shriek that Sylvia realized

an internship at Eloise's

emotions filled the

now looked livid, her fingernails digging into the

you say only the first-place winner would be eligible for

at

all just too talented, and I found it hard to choose. I'm sure that with

impeccably kind, leaving Bridget without a

lips. She

towards Rupert in the audience, a picture of grievance, hoping for his support, only to find his attention

followed his gaze, her eyes landing on Sylvia. With a dark look, Bridget bit her lip to control her emotions. She knew better than make

vera