Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 77

Passing by? Rupert, a man who barely had time to breathe between meetings, just happened to be passing by?

Yeah, right. Clearly, he's here for Bridget.

Bridget's casual mention of their shared route was no accident. She wanted everyone to know just how close she and Rupert were - a subtle demand for respect from the crowd. And it worked like a charm.

"Rupert and Bridget are the picture of love," someone cooed.

"Absolutely, a match made in heaven. They're the envy of us all."

Just then, Sylvia entered, pushing the door open with a grace that immediately caught everyone's attention. The room, filled with alumni who had since become stars in their own right, couldn't help but stare. Their gazes lingered on her from head to toe - some discreet, while others blatantly ogled.

Sylvia, aware of the unwritten rules of this inner circle, nodded politely and made a beeline for the principal.

"Principal."

The principal, with a welcoming smile, gestured to the gathering. "Now that we're all here, let's take our seats. Mr. Rupert Garcia, this way, please."

As Rupert moved past Sylvia, an icy draft seemed to follow him, making her involuntarily clench her fists.

the principal in terms of status.

school. Sitting with them will be a great opportunity for you

herself pulled

my dear. We'll take good care of you," he said, his tone

being called "dear" by men who had graduated

her was more than a little uncomfortable. Before she knew she was surrounded, with no chance

ove

Fet

composure under their greasy gazes,

up

straighter.

- seemingly harmless, but with eyes as venomous as a spider's, trapping Sylvia in an uncomfortable web Sitting there, Sylvia braced

inevitably turned towards drinking. The principal raised a toast to Rupert, kicking off the drinking culture

apologetically, "Rupert prefers I don't drink. The rest of you can drink

clear signal to the others that Sylvia was fair game. Everyone glanced at Rupert, his

handle beer, but spirits were a different story; just the smell was enough to turn

to the brim

would you?" one of the men