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.

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

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

herself pulled into

you," he said, his tone a mix of condescension and

"dear" by men who

than a little uncomfortable. Before she knew

ove

Fet

their greasy gazes,

up

straighter.

of the table, Bridget sipped her coffee, smiling at Sylvia - seemingly harmless, but with eyes as venomous as a spider's, trapping Sylvia in an uncomfortable web Sitting there, Sylvia braced herself for

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

Bridget's 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 have anyone to watch over her like I

were a clear signal to the others that Sylvia was fair game. Everyone glanced at Rupert, his aura unapproachable, and then quickly turned their

spirits were a different story; just

a glass filled to the

to disappoint us, would you?" one of