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.

took her place by his side, second only to the principal in terms of status. She then took

gentlemen are distinguished alumni of our school. Sitting with them will be a great opportunity for

to refuse but found herself pulled into a

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

called "dear" by men

than a little uncomfortable. Before she knew she was

ove

Fet

composure under their greasy gazes,

up

straighter.

at Sylvia - seemingly harmless, but with eyes as venomous as a spider's,

principal raised a toast to Rupert, kicking off the drinking culture

turn, she glanced at Rupert and said apologetically, "Rupert prefers I don't drink. The rest of you can drink with Sylvia. She doesn't

Sylvia was fair game. Everyone glanced

but spirits were a different story; just the smell was

when a glass filled to the

would you?" one of the