Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Sylvia stepped out of the lounge, her mind churning.

She'd barely lifted her eyes before hearing Edwin's frustrated voice scolding Rupert.

"Rupert, that was reckless! Dad's reputation means everything to him-you just embarrassed him in front of everyone!"

Rupert's face was as stoic as ever. "Some pride has to be sacrificed, for the family's future. He'll understand."

Edwin, much older than Rupert and always carrying that air of responsibility, let out a heavy sigh. "And your own reputation? You're just going to throw it away too?"

Sylvia stood off to the side, eyes fixed on the toes of her silver flats, feeling like an outsider but listening intently for Rupert's answer. She didn't understand why he'd made such a scene, either.

Rupert's voice was cold and even. "It's the same for me."

Something inside Sylvia sank. Of course. He didn't care about anyone-not even himself. Only the family interests mattered.

She wasn't surprised, but her mind still went blank for a moment.

Edwin sucked in a breath through his teeth. No wonder Rupert held the top seat. If he could be this ruthless to himself, who could ever compete?

Edwin noticed a fresh trickle of blood at Rupert's hairline and rushed over. "You need to get to the hospital. I'll handle things here."

Rupert just nodded and turned to leave.

Sylvia stepped back, head lowered to let him pass, but suddenly, his hand seized her wrist and pulled her along.

up at his broad back and tried to wriggle

Rupert said, nodding over

back, realizing Edwin and Naomi

should

to turn away, but Rupert pulled her back, pinning her gently against him from

want to

scent filling her senses, the ache from before returning

idea I play bridesmaid, Uncle Rupert?" she shot back, annoyed, trying to pry his hand off her arm. But he just tightened his grip, his

one thing missing at this wedding," he said softly, "and it's not

Sylvia froze.

his breath hot

turned her face away sharply, feeling a strange

stood that way in silence until the sound

panicked. "Let me go! Someone's

didn't answer, just took her hand and led her

were in

bet

the blood on

started the engine with

word.

I've called Chris-he's waiting for

drove, Orson glanced back

looked at Sylvia in

beside