Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 353

But that was the thing about this one chunk of rock-jam it in tight, and it'd hold back the rest of the landslide.

The only catch? Now Sylvia was stuck inside, too.

Their only way out was blocked.

Even after making sure they were at least for the moment-safe, Sylvia didn't relax. Instead, she spun around and glared daggers at the man sprawled half- upright on the ground.

"Why didn't you move? You lied to me! You-"

Sylvia's hand shot up, ready to slap him, but froze midway.

That's when she finally noticed Rupert's leg, pinned and bloodied, a crimson pool spreading under him.

Her anger crumbled, tangled up with guilt and confusion.

Rupert's face was unreadable as he grabbed her chin and forced her to look away. "Didn't hit the bone. Just a nasty cut."

Sylvia yanked her face free and glared at him, eyes rimmed red. "Why are you always like this? You slap me, then hand me a cookie! Am I supposed to thank you? God, I hate you sometimes!"

Rupert's hand hovered in the stale air between them, then dropped. He said nothing.

The old mine was pitch dark; she couldn't see his expression, not really.

and crouched by his injured leg

the gash looked agonizing, and not a sound had

lip, tore off the sleeve of her undershirt, and wiped away the dirt and blood before tying it

that big, if they didn't

aid done as best she could, Sylvia

cave.

Rupert's voice rumbled. "Come

lips together, refusing

brow furrowed as he tried to sit up; the effort made his leg ooze

Sylvia reached out to steady him, snapping, "Uncle Rupert! Are you

easy life, would I be here?" he shot back, dry as dust. She faltered, lost

down beside him, his arm strong and unyielding as iron.

his voice cool.

coat and wrapped it

her body pressed against

she thought she could hear

could lose his cool?

only their uneven

you get yourself caught?" Rupert

know,"

the drawer, but you're not stupid either. Out with

even in the gloom. Just that look made her