Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

After a couple of weeks, Sylvia's hard work spoke for itself. Everyone at the office could see her dedication, and it became pretty obvious that ignoring her was

pointless.

Bit by bit, things settled down. The team slipped back into their old routines.

That is, until Bridget showed up again.

It was just two days before her wedding to Rupert.

Bridget looked every bit the future Mrs. Garcia now-her clothes, her posture, even down to the family car and chauffeur waiting behind her, all unmistakably Garcia.

She blocked Sylvia's way right in front of everyone, wearing a gentle smile. "Sylvia, I want you to be my bridesmaid."

Sylvia blinked, caught off guard. She quickly regained her composure and brushed off Bridget's hand. "Sorry. I'm really busy these days. I don't have time to be your bridesmaid."

Bridget's voice stayed sweet, but every word was laced with threat. "Sylvia, I already explained to my followers that what happened was just an accident. I'm not mad. I just don't want people to get the wrong idea about us. And... your mom is with the Garcias now. Let's not make things awkward for the family, okay?"

She was guilt-tripping Sylvia using online rumors-and using her mom, Naomi, as leverage.

Sylvia scoffed. "Busy means busy. Did you hit your head too hard when you fell? Or was it always like this?"

she glanced at the car behind

down, revealing

looked down his nose at Sylvia. "What's the matter? Do I need to come out and

spine. She clenched her fists. "Fine.

fake warmth and sugary smiles. "Great! Let's go. We're meeting Rupert at the

need for all that. Just give me the dress the day

and nodded at the bodyguard up front.

bodyguard opened the door and nudged

leather seats, patting the spot next to her. "Come on, Sylvia! This car is Tristan's wedding gift to Rupert and me. You're the first friend I'm inviting

car, and Tristan didn't

nothing for the

bridal boutique, Tristan casually straightened his

murmured, "It's good mannerstonet

it's

Otherwise, you'll

was talking to

and got out of

Rupert's car