Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 153

"Oh?" Bailey's gaze shifted, the amusement in her voice hardening into a cold edge. "What do you mean?"

"You're wearing that ring on your pinky, deliberately avoiding the fingers associated with love and romance.

Ten years ago, your husband died in a car crash. But he wasn't alone, was he? His mistress - a woman who adored camellias - died clutching one he'd given her. Even this estate, Camellia Manor, was a gift he bought with your money for her. And now, it's your trophy." With those words, Sylvia approached the charred remnants of the small garden, suddenly turning to face Bailey with a cold expression.

Her voice softened. "Bailey, the camellias here do bloom beautifully, don't they?"

"Of course, they're well-tended to. But what does that have to do with you burning them down?"

"Bailey, you spend weeks here every year, abandoning work, drowning in memories. It's a shame- a capable and bold woman like you, trapped in Camellia Manor over a man who was never worth it."

Sylvia's voice tightened, and she turned back to the ashes, watching as they rose into the air. A faint sting pricked her nose, carrying with it a phantom scent, bitter and familiar, like the crematorium she couldn't forget.

In the end, none of it was worth it.

you to have such insight.

the butler with a sense of release.

The butler nodded. "Yes."

Sylvia, smiling. "I want the design draft in

"Alright," Sylvia agreed.

to speak. They had

reason for the fire, she hadn't clarified the motive

resentful expression didn't escape Sylvia's notice. Before ĕ Bridget could voice her complaints, Sylvia reached into her pocket and pulled something out, holding it up

It was a lighter.

Simpson's lighter found here? We were all together just now; I couldn't have stolen the lighter in front of everyone. Later, I accompanied Freya to

inevitably fell on Bridget and

estroom,

Simpson, maybe you dropped it by accident when you passed by

eagerly. "Yes, that must be

you." Sylvia's gracious smile deeply stung them, but they could only swallow their resentment and respond with forced smiles. Suddenly, a thunderous boom

to the shelter of