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

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

faltered, unsure what to say, a voice piped up from the corner. "I'm over

stomach. She looked pale

up. I didn't realize you were talking to me.

cop sized her up. Aside from her sickly appearance, she

We're going to check everyone, one by

Bridget

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 upset

her hand back. "Thanks, but I'm

away, but the cop's voice stopped

skipped a beat

you check Sylvia first? She really

well. I can take her to the hospital once

officers turned their full attention

"Where were you sitting?"

her lips

curled into a slight smile, excitement flashing in her eyes. "Come on, Sylvia, everyone's waiting. Don't waste time. I