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.

so easily. He leaned in closer, his fingertip grazing her lip with a hint of

didn't flinch, meeting his gaze with a hint of defiance. "Keep this up, and I won't hesitate to tell the press about your escapades with other women." "Oh? Other women?" Rupert

dress made especially for her. Even Bridget never got such

eyes,

voice turned icy.

"Just leave Warren alone."

me for him? You're something else,

back, a dangerous glint

up, her hands clutching the edge of the table behind

ket

existence. In that moment, she felt her past self was not just pathetic but merely a pawn in someone

fingernails

a moment, then suddenly asked, "Didn't you want to

thought he was testing her. "Don't worry. I won't ask, and I don't care who she is. Just don't drag me into your mess."

"What..."

could ask what he meant,

haven't you left

like we'll have to help you move. Well then... Oh,

followed by three men in security

a tattoo peeking out