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 we explain to Ms.

"No need."

was Bridget. He squinted slightly but didn't answer, turning to Orson instead. "Continue with the task

while Sylvia sat vigil, too

warm as a cup of hot cocoa was handed

barely whispered, her legs

what's wrong?" Warren quickly wrapped

her head, making up an excuse.

sorry I'm late again." Warren handed her the

her head, Sylvia took a sip

for a moment before whispering, "Are Naomi and Edwin okay? Uncle Rupert and Grandpa said they

spilling most of her cocoa onto the floor. She looked at Warren

coming over to the Garcias for dinner tomorrow. My mom was going over the menu with Grandpa, and he mentioned it. That's why I rushed

to act indifferent,

a dinner with Bridget. To ensure that dinner went

up, falling silently one after another, her gaze growing cold as

"Sylvia, what's wrong?"

comfort was overwhelming, numbing her thoughts. Without realizing, she clung to him

and your mom are fine, right? Don't cry. I'm here for you," Warren soothed her gently, his

the room, Rupert

watching the