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.

Ms. Eloise, I'm just worried. If you end up helping a criminal, that sticks with

nodded, their eyes narrowing at Eloise, as if urging her to cooperate. They were business associates, not family-they weren't about to

say, a voice piped up from

her stomach. She

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

her up. Aside from her sickly appearance, she didn't seem out of

going to check everyone, one

but Bridget suddenly

stared at Sylvia's hand, eyes wide. "Sylvia, your palm's ice cold and you're sweating-your hands are shaking!

yanked her hand back.

tried to walk away, but the

a beat

"Officer, can you check Sylvia

her to

their full attention

"Where were you sitting?"

her lips

into a slight smile, excitement flashing in her eyes. "Come on,