Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 361

When Chris finally saw the helmet clearly, he froze on the spot.

It was unmistakable. He'd had this exact helmet custom-made for Caleb Lennon. His own handwriting still adorned the side: "Ride Safe."

But Caleb was supposed to be recovering from an injury. What was his helmet doing here?

Confused, Chris stepped closer-then was stopped short by unmistakable sounds coming from inside the room.

He started to turn away, embarrassment prickling his skin-only to catch a glimpse of the woman's face on the bed.

Bridget.

Rage burned through him. Chris clenched the hotel keycard in his fist, ready to storm in. But instead, he forced himself to back out of the room quietly, shutting the door without a sound.

Rupert had given him this keycard for a reason to avoid causing a scene.

...

Hospital Room.

Rupert barely glanced up when Chris walked in, as if he'd been expecting him. He pulled out a pack of Marlboros, offered one to Chris.

Chris stared at him, bitterness in his eyes, then took the cigarette. Even his hands shook as he tried-and failed-to flick the lighter.

Rupert wordlessly leaned over and lit it for him.

Chris didn't smoke much; the first drag made him cough hard. He swallowed the ache and muttered, "How long have you known?"

Rupert exhaled, voice flat: "Since their first hotel hookup."

Chris's eyes widened. "That was-?"

first time they ever

again, this time

type you'd expect to see

can fake anything if they want it bad

guilt twisting

worry about it. Bridget and I... it

of business?" Chris

a paper cup. "That's a story for another time. Right now, we've got

"Like what?"

onto the table between them.

you're out, Chris. Next time, I'm not

syringe, crushing his cigarette in his shaking hand. His face

home tomorrow," Chris

...

Sylvia signed

to check on Mrs. Carter and her family. The Carters had finally gotten the compensation they deserved, and

genuinely happy for them and left a

hotel, Eloise was already waiting by her

to see you're alright," Eloise said, warmth in

with you and asked for you specifically Don't miss it-these chances don't

in the morning,"

"Of course," Sylvia replied.

chat, Eloise headed back

up ten minutes early at the hotel's

"Where's Bridget?"

not coming. Mr. Rupert wants her to

expression flickering, but then she

Sylvia spotted

mean Rupert's out of the hospital,