Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Sylvia.

Her again.

She let out a sharp, cold laugh, her voice low so only Rupert could hear. "If I can't

have her, then no one can. And you don't even think about it."

Right then, a motorcycle roared straight into the ballroom, sending guests scrambling and ducking behind tables and chairs.

The bike screeched to a halt right in front of Bridget. The rider stretched out a hand. “Bridget, come on! Let's get out of here!"

Without hesitating, Bridget grabbed their hand and swung onto the back of the bike. In a split second, they were gone, tearing out of the wedding and leaving chaos behind.

As they sped past, Bridget shot Sylvia a venomous look-a look that promised this wasn't over.

Up on the dais, Rupert's cool voice cut through the stunned silence.

"The bride's taken off-wedding's over. Folks, help yourselves to some food before you go."

Like this had nothing to do with him at all.

The event staff jumped into action, switching the wedding music to some mellow

evening as if nothing

then did Sylvia snap back to reality, her phone buzzing insistently in her

was a message from

"Come to the lounge."

"Okay," Sylvia texted back.

the Garcias were

second, Sylvia hurried toward the

glass flew right at her face. She froze, too

in the temple. Shards skittered to the floor, and

silent, nobody daring

where we are right now? Why'd you

I don't show people what happens

make a circus out of

the time is right, then strike hard. With the Garcias in so much trouble. lately, who knows how many people are waiting to pounce? If we just let

down, pulling out a cigarette, surveying

smoke, he absently spun the signet ring on his thumb. "What, you think I went too far? Maybe. After all... murder's not really

mention of murder, Tristan's expression

stiffly, fists clenched on his knees, eyes narrowed at Rupert.

you couldn't guess

he whipped around to

and Bridget are friends. Did you know about this?

at?"