Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

The police officers avoided mentioning drugs outright, not wanting to spook the suspect.

But everyone in the room understood what was going on.

Hearing the implication, Eloise paled, shaking her head emphatically.

"No way! You must have the wrong person."

Before the officers could explain further, another voice cut through the tension.

"What's going on? Why all the commotion?"

It was Bridget.

She stepped inside, surprise flitting across her face when she saw Eloise. "Ms. Eloise? I didn't know you were dining here! Wait... Where's Sylvia? I don't see her."

The officers immediately tensed at the missing headcount. If someone had slipped away, especially under the influence of drugs, there could be real danger.

One of the cops pressed, "Who else isn't here? Where are they now? If you don't answer honestly, you could be charged with harboring a suspect."

Eloise frowned, shooting Bridget a look of annoyance.

up, but Ms. Eloise, I'm just worried. If you end up helping

nodded, their eyes narrowing at Eloise, as if urging her to cooperate. They

faltered, unsure what to say, a voice piped up from the corner.

stomach. She looked

much and my stomach's acting up. I didn't realize you were

cop sized her up. Aside from her sickly appearance, she didn't seem

over there, please. We're going to check everyone,

to relax, but Bridget suddenly

stared at Sylvia's hand, eyes wide. "Sylvia, your palm's ice cold and you're sweating-your hands are shaking! That's not just an

her hand back.

tried to walk away, but the cop's voice stopped her cold.

beat as she

in again, "Officer, can you check Sylvia first?

well. I can take her

turned their full attention to

"Where were you sitting?"

pressed her lips together,

in her eyes. "Come on, Sylvia, everyone's