Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 176

Sylvia jolted, startled by the strange Rupert. Her breath hitched as she tried to push him away.

But he caught her wrist, his fingers brushing over a patch of discolored skin- a faded burn she'd gotten some time ago. "Are you recovered?" he asked, his deep voice carrying a hint of laziness.

Sylvia turned her face away, refusing to speak.

Rupert gently tilted her chin back toward him, his fingers lightly pinching her cheek.

"Can we talk like civilized people?"

"You forget- I'm as stubborn as a mule," Sylvia retorted, annoyance in her tone. Rupert leaned against the table, his head drooping as he suppressed a chuckle.

"I try to have a serious conversation, and all you remember is the nonsense."

His tone was lighter now, tinged with rare ease.

Sylvia didn't know what to say. Moments ago, they were at each other's throats.

She looked down, unwilling to engage further.

to let her off so easily. He leaned in closer, his fingertip grazing her lip with a

I won't hesitate to tell the press about your escapades with other women." "Oh? Other

Bridget never got such treatment. You must be keeping busy," Sylvia said

his eyes, understanding her

icy.

"Just leave Warren alone."

me for him?

dangerous glint

clutching the edge of the

ket

past self was not just pathetic but merely a pawn in

as her fingernails cracked, but

suddenly asked,

she is. Just don't drag me into

"What..."

could ask what he

haven't you left

to help you move. Well then... Oh,

was the Dean, followed by three men

sight of a tattoo peeking out from beneath one man's collar- a