Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 105

Sylvia spun around, her gaze crashing into Rupert's icy eyes.

"Don't even think about calling the cops."

His voice was a command, brooking no argument.

Under the harsh glare of the fluorescent lighting, his eyes -set in a face as striking as it was intimidating- locked onto hers with an intensity that was almost threatening.

Sylvia's fists clenched tightly, her shoulders shaking. Her face pale, tinged with a hint of blue, betrayed the effort it took to steady herself.

"Why?" she finally asked, her voice low and strained. "Is it just because they're part of the Simpson family? Do we deserve this? Why is it always me who ends up being sacrificed? Once, twice..."

Rupert remained silent, his gaze eerily calm.

Sylvia, on the brink of hysteria, lowered her gaze to their shoes. A pair of sneakers and a pair of handcrafted leather shoes, a clear sign their worlds should never have collided.

She let out a self-deprecating laugh, mocking her own futile attempts to challenge the inevitable.

"Fine. I won't call the cops. Just don't regret your decision today."

Snatching her phone back, she stormed into the hospital room, the door slamming shut behind her.

Rupert with a frown. "Mr. Garcia, shouldn't

"No need."

Rupert's phone rang. It was Bridget. He squinted slightly but didn't answer, turning to Orson instead. "Continue with

peacefully, while Sylvia sat vigil, too exhausted

a cup of hot cocoa was handed to her. Looking

barely whispered, her legs

quickly

head, making up an excuse. "Just pins

again." Warren handed her the cocoa with an

a sip of the

Naomi and Edwin okay? Uncle Rupert and Grandpa said they just had a bit too much to drink and took a

the floor. She looked at Warren in disbelief, her voice muffled,

My mom was going over the menu

tried to act indifferent, but

than a dinner with Bridget. To ensure that dinner went ahead as planned, Rupert had even stooped

up, falling silently one after another, her gaze growing

"Sylvia, what's wrong?"

her. The comfort was overwhelming,

it's okay. Edwin and your mom are fine, right? Don't cry. I'm here for you," Warren soothed her

the room,

the