Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 152

Freya was practically dragged out by the servant.

"Let me go, let me go..."

Struggling, Freya was brought before the crowd.

Bailey surveyed her coldly. "What were you doing hiding over there? Did you start the fire?"

Frozen with fear, Freya collapsed to the ground, shaking her head fervently. "Bailey, it wasn't me, I swear! Sylvia and I just stepped out to use the restroom. When she didn't come out, I wandered off looking for her and got lost until a servant found me." She pointed to the servant at the edge of the group.

The servant nodded at Bailey, confirming Freya's story.

Bailey's eyes narrowed as she turned toward Sylvia and Bridget.

"So, it seems like it could only be one of you two. But this lighter belongs to Ms. Simpson, so that means..."

Bridget, tears streaming down her face, spoke through sobs, "I have an alibi! I ran into a gardener while I was out and even stopped to chat. You can ask them if you don't believe me."

Catching Bailey's glance, the butler hurriedly fetched the gardener.

Ms. Simpson did stop to ask about the flowers. She couldn't have been here setting a fire

the others,

furrowed brow, turned to Sylvia. "You don't

shook her head, but before she could

do this? Even though Ms.

to Rupert, her voice filled with despair. "Sylvia, how could you do this to me?

genuine tears, cast blaming glances at

approached Sylvia. "Is

gaze and nodded

Bridget were stunned, momentarily lost for

admitted it? Without even

surprised by Sylvia's admission, pressed, "Why?

she had

with sincerity, said, "For you,

with Sylvia and quickly

don't want to admit a mistake, but it's better to apologize

please stop. I

Rupert is here; don't put

a difficult position," Bridget

understanding the gravity of the