Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 450

The warmth of the tea slid down Sylvia's throat, easing the scratchiness and calming her nerves.

Gradually, she started to relax. The person beside her gently grazed her lips with his thumb, as if he was handling something precious.

He leaned in closer, his breath hot against her cheek.

Sylvia instinctively held her breath. Even though her vision was blurry, she could tell he was inches away-close enough that the slightest movement would close the gap between their lips.

Just then, the meds fully kicked in, and Sylvia's limbs went limp. She slumped onto the couch.

Almost immediately, a strong arm wrapped around her, pulling her close. The steady beat of his heart thudded in her ear-a strange comfort.

Half-conscious, she felt a soft kiss land on her forehead.

"Get some rest."

His deep, gentle voice seemed almost magical, lulling Sylvia into a peaceful, dreamless sleep.

When she opened her eyes again, she was staring at a white ceiling. She touched her forehead-no more fever, thankfully. But she still felt as weak as a kitten.

She reached for the glass of water on the coffee table, but her arm just wouldn't cooperate.

A hand appeared, putting the glass gently into her grasp.

"You're awake?"

That voice...

up and froze. "Mr. Sanford? What are you

ask about a design, but your coworker said you were sick. I got your address and came to check on you. Tried calling and knocking, but you didn't answer. Your neighbor happened to

Ward were both single women, and for safety's sake,

thank you, feeling embarrassingly awkward. So the person from earlier was really

expecting to find someone else, but it was just Lester. The

her glance.

nodded. "Much

you something to eat. You'll feel stronger."

to see a steaming bowl of chicken noodle

was, and the room spun. Lester

now," he said.

"Okay."

guided her to the

her spoon. The soup was rich

homemade-definitely not takeout.

have been

So, it really was

who'd cared for her.

gripped her spoon tightly, a mix of gratitude and embarrassment twisting

almost

hungry?" Lester asked,

great-thank you. Sorry you had to go through all

soup and a couple bites

Lester handed her a glass of water

or your