Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 323

As soon as the words left his mouth, the man grabbed the back of her head and

crushed his mouth to hers in a rough, almost desperate kiss.

"Ow-hey!" Sylvia gasped, pain shooting through her lips.

Instinctively, she parted her lips to protest, which only invited him in.

His gaze locked onto hers-those dark eyes burning with heat and wild desire, almost a little unhinged.

Sylvia pounded his chest a few times in protest, but he barely seemed to notice, letting her vent her frustration however she wanted.

Then he pressed her back onto the bed, his tall frame looming over her, radiating an intensity that left her completely powerless.

After a tense moment, Rupert finally let her go, burying his face in the crook of her neck. His breath was ragged, stirring her hair, the heat of him lingering against her

ear.

His voice was hoarse. "I'm away on business for a while. Stay away from the Garcias' place, okay?"

Sylvia's heart jumped. She couldn't tell if this was a warning or just concern, but she nodded.

"Your mom's waiting for you downstairs. Go on," he said, pulling away and straightening his clothes.

off the bed, bolting for the

poked his head into the hospital

she ran off

your own business," Rupert replied, all

isn't the way to do it. Just look at Dr. Chris-everyone loves him... well, never mind,

tumbled out as Rupert fixed him with

so great, why don't you go bother

I even say? Why would I go find

"Wait up, Mr. Rupert!"

...

The next morning.

Sylvia arrived at the studio, her phone buzzed with a group message: staff meeting in

Bridget walked in. Bridget's makeup was flawless as always, and she looked healthier than before, but there was an unmistakable shadow in her eyes-like she still hadn't shaken off the shock from

Bridget instantly slipped back into her usual

intention of stirring up drama today, so she

meeting,

Mountain City Jewelry Expo tomorrow. There'll be some big names there-good opportunity

Sylvia said, standing to take the stack

eyes lit up her favorite Italian jewelry

list.