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?"

watered, and she glanced

window slid down, revealing Tristan's

Sylvia. "What's the matter? Do I need to come out and ask you

She clenched her fists. "Fine.

immediately grabbed Sylvia's hand, all fake warmth and sugary smiles. "Great! Let's go. We're meeting Rupert at the dress shop to try on the wedding dress. You

away. "No need for all that.

at the bodyguard up front. "Aren't you going

opened the door

"Come on, Sylvia! This car is

million-dollar car, and Tristan

said nothing for the

the bridal boutique, Tristan casually

murmured, "It's good mannerstonet

it's even

your own dignity. Otherwise, you'll just end up

knew he was talking to

ignored him and got out of

Rupert's car