Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 107

Rupert glanced up casually, his demeanor nonchalant. Yet, his gaze held an unmistakable strength and possessiveness that he made no effort to hide.

captivating all who saw it.

Sylvia was dressed in a striking red dress, cinched at the waist with a brown belt. Her smooth, porcelain-like skin and alluring figure drew every eye in the room. A delicate platinum necklace adorned her slender neck, its subtle glint seeming to emanate from within,

Across the room, Mrs. Simpson- Miriam- felt Rupert's gaze lingering on Sylvia. She set her cup down with a deliberate clink, drawing everyone's attention. Adjusting her silk houndstooth shawl, she turned to Naomi with a graceful smile, though her narrow eyes sparkled with mockery.

"Naomi, you've really outdone yourself with such a grand welcome. I hope we didn't interrupt your rest last night?"

At the mention of last night, Naomi flinched, almost losing her composure. Sylvia, noticing, subtly tugged her arm to steady her. With a broad smile facing Miriam's malicious gaze, she said, "Given how splendidly Mrs. Simpson and Ms. Simpson are dressed, we Garcias naturally had to rise to the occasion. After all, hospitality is something we take very seriously. Wouldn't you agree, esteemed elders?"

words clearly positioned the Garcias as the hosts, subtly reminding Miriam of her place. The elders, wise as they were, caught the underlying message immediately. Even if they had reservations about Naomi, she was a Garcia, and it wasn't Miriam's place to criticize. An older, well-established aunt swirled her glass of

bottle sent over by another vineyard for us to try. Not exactly up to par

lack of standards these days! Guests are here, and we're serving this?

to the side, Miriam and Bridget's faces turned ashen, and they shot a discreet glare at

ignorance, helped

announced Tristan Garcia's arrival. Everyone rose to greet

gestured for calm. "Please, sit. Today is about enjoying

rectangular box. Inside

looking so robust; your swordsmanship

commissioning this piece fromanet

was somewhat

hope you won't mind my boldness. In truth, Rupert often speaks of your health,