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

trying to salvage the evening as if nothing

did Sylvia snap back to reality,

was a message from

"Come to the lounge."

"Okay," Sylvia texted back.

around. Rupert and the Garcias

a second, Sylvia hurried

when a glass flew right at her face. She froze,

hit him in the temple. Shards skittered to the floor,

went dead silent,

"Do you even know where we are right now? Why'd you have to say

I don't show people what happens when they try to fool me, next time someone

need to make

you're the one who taught me wait till the time is right, then strike hard. With the Garcias in so much trouble. lately, who knows how many people are waiting to

sat down, pulling out a cigarette, surveying the room like

on his thumb. "What, you think I went too far? Maybe. After

of

clenched on his knees, eyes narrowed at Rupert. His

intense you couldn't guess what

thinned. Suddenly, he whipped around

are friends. Did you know about this?

at?"