Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 172

Bailey gently stroked the dog's fur, a smile playing at the corners of her mouth.

"What are you thinking right now? Of course, it's all about the fertilizer I use. A sprinkle of compost tea every now and then, and you wouldn't believe the growth.

Ms. Simpson, your last name is Simpson, not Garcia. That's where you fall short compared to Sylvia. She's got things figured out way clearer than you. When the day comes that you actually secure your place as Mrs. Garcia, then you can come talk smack." With that, Bailey didn't even spare Bridget a second glance before walking away.

Bridget, unable to swallow the insult, turned to seek solace from Rupert.

But Rupert had already left. All she could do was flash a strained smile at the camera, trying to maintain her diva image as she hurried after Rupert's steps. "Rupert, I..."

"I have no time for pointless excuses. You knew what was at stake when you chose the camellia theme for your jewelry line," Rupert said coldly.

"But you could have reminded me," Bridget stumbled over her words, even blaming Rupert.

Rupert looked at her, his deep, lake-like eyes narrowing, his gaze as cold as ice.

"Jeopardizing my partnership with Bailey, and the investments in the Simpson Group will lead me to pull out all my investments."

"No! You can't do this to me! You promised you'd help me."

Bridget pleaded, grabbing his arm.

Expressionless, Rupert pulled his arm away, his voice icy. "Then stay in your lane. You're running out of chances."

With those final words, he turned and walked away.

chill from Rupert's demeanor deep in her

holding her dog. Though she couldn't hear their conversation, she could clearly make out a name on

to hold back any longer, Bridget rushed into the restroom, her phone buzzing non-stop in

but mockery about her

are Bridget's fans now? Lost

disjointed, especially the ring-flashy but meaningless.] [Bridget's fans love to bark at everyone. Now I get it - with such an expensive

should have been her moment of universal acclaim

she hurled

the mirror

without

would have

had it all

the angrier she became, her

mouth. Hearing footsteps outside, she quickly grabbed her phone and

...

banquet hall, the dim corridor lights cast

on his lips, but he seemed to be missing

stepped in, offering

really don't hold back, spending money to teach someone a lesson through my hands while still staying under the radar."

lit his cigarette, his

cigarette, clicking her tongue. "Stubborn men

...

on the live stream, feeling utterly

her to witness Bridget's triumph, but