Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 71

She might not have been aiming for a photo op with Rupert from the get-go, but snagging a pic beside him was a surefire way to send the internet into a frenzy - and catch a sprinkle of stardom for herself. After all, if people were not out for themselves, they were left behind. Christine was playing the game right.

Sylvia stepped aside, flashing Christine a smile, "Go ahead. Your dress today is a splash of midnight, you'll look stunning next to Mr. Garcia in photos."

She even served her a perfect excuse on a silver platter.

Christine, caught off guard, mumbled a thanks and made her way to Rupert's other side. Sylvia, meanwhile, positioned herself at the far end.

As everyone arranged themselves for the photo, Rupert raised his hand to block the camera. He declared in a firm tone, "The contestants should be at the center."

Without missing a beat, he casually brushed off Bridget's hand and moved to the very edge, right next to Sylvia.

Instinctively, Sylvia tried to step away, only to feel a hand creep onto her back. The warmth of the palm through the thin fabric heated her skin, sending her into a panic.

She tried to gently pull his hand away, but he caught her hand, pressing it against her lower back. The thumb with the ruby ring softly caressed her arm, sending shivers down her spine. She couldn't break free. Had he lost his mind? There were numerous people here!

gaze, his breath hot on Sylvia's head, whispering in a volume only she could hear, "Move

at him, only for the photographers to choose that moment to snap away. It wasn't until

away, looped her arm in Rupert's,

But the reporters had other plans, convincing the organizers to keep the three contestants

then, the tone shifted dramatically. Especially when the subject of Sylvia and Bridget's rivalry came up - the highlight of the competition

vel

resist diving

Simpson in the face-off,

"Though I won the contest, Sylvia's academic performance at school has always been superior to mine. I'm sure she'll bounce back stronger next

could someone who lost the contest have higher academic scores? Unless the rumors about Sylvia having a special relationship

Sylvia, mimicking Bridget's tone,

to look at her and retorted,

wouldn't matter as long as winning the contest. I'm sure Ms. Simpson put in her

effort for this."

of her own medicine. Turnabout was fair