Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 440

The table was quiet for a long moment.

Sylvia stared at the man across from her, trying to figure out if he was joking.

But before she could say anything, the restaurant manager rushed over, looking flustered.

"I'm so sorry, our server mixed up the table numbers. This is table 26."

Sylvia immediately glanced over her shoulder at the man waiting at table 27 behind her.

Biting her lip in embarrassment, she turned back to the man in front of her. "Sorry, sir, total mix-up. Hope you have... a good date."

One look at his tailored suit and expensive watch told her he was way out of her league and definitely not someone she wanted to mess with.

She got up quickly and moved to the correct table, apologizing to her client as she sat down.

Just as she settled in, a woman dressed head-to-toe in the latest designer fashion slid into the seat Sylvia had just vacated.

The woman didn't waste a second. "You look alright, but honestly, I've got more than a few millionaires chasing me. Unless you're offering at least a million bucks, don't even bother."

Sylvia couldn't help herself; she pressed her lips together, trying not to laugh. Judging by that man's watch alone, he could buy and sell this woman five times over. Clearly, she didn't know what she was looking at.

As Sylvia tried to stifle her amusement, she noticed the man's gaze briefly flicker her way. She quickly straightened up and focused on pitching her new design to her client.

Meanwhile, at table 26...

The man listened to the woman rattle off her "marriage requirements," his expression icy. Then, without a word, he waved his hand in front of her face as if shooing away a fly.

touched her cheek. "Excuse me? I know I look good, but I'm not just

her off, sounding bored. "You're blocking

huffed. "No wonder you're still single. What a waste

purse and stormed

table. She was explaining the details of her latest jewelry collection, her nerves settling

man at table 26, however, found himself listening to her voice—a clear, soothing sound that stood out in the morning bustle. He signaled the waiter

then began packing up her sketches. Just as she was

to join

hesitated, giving him a wry smile. "Sorry, I

raised an eyebrow. "How

was no hiding it, and refusing now would just make her look

She sighed. "Fine. Thanks."

for pancakes and

bacon. He set down his

"Lester Sanford."

Of all the people. Lately, it seemed

trouble had that

smiled faintly.

a

Lloyd, you're a jewelry

"Yep."

be possible for a client to make a slightly unusual request?" Lester leaned forward, folding his hands under his chin, his

on her orange juice. She took a

of milk, voice gentle. "Take

few sips before replying. "If you're about to ask me on