Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 503

"But have you ever considered-maybe she's just been waiting for you to really choose her all along?"

"If she wanted to ruin everything, she could've posted pictures of you two together online, torched your reputation and Ms. Sanford's. But she didn't. She protected the both of you. She protected your dignity."

"So please, Rupert. Let her go."

The room fell into a heavy, endless silence.

Rupert stepped back, almost swallowed by the room's darkness. He stood completely still, as if fighting something deep inside.

No one else could see the way his eyes glistened red at the corners, emotion shimmering in his usually cold gaze.

"Why should I let her go?" His voice was raw.

"I just want one person. Just one. Why can't I have that?"

Chris noticed something was wrong and stepped in, almost catching a fist that Rupert swung in blind anger.

He quickly grabbed Rupert's arm and called over his shoulder, "Orson, help me out-don't let him tear his stitches again!"

Orson came up behind Rupert and held him firmly. Chris didn't hesitate—he administered a calming shot.

A moment later, Rupert slumped, unconscious.

Orson eased him onto the bed, then looked at Chris, guilt and concern written all

over his face. "There's really nothing else we can do?"

Chris shook his head. "Not without hurting them both."

Orson frowned. "He's trapped, Chris. He never had control."

"Let's

two men left the

Rupert's body felt like it was falling-faster and faster-until the

wood filled his

Flames devoured the old mansion

the woman trapped inside

Sylvia.

clutching something pink—a

fire roared higher, licking at her dress,

screamed, running toward the blaze with everything

no matter how

Sylvia looked up at him. Her eyes were empty, full

"Rupert, I hate you."

were swallowed by the crashing

Sylviat he

by the fire as he tried

get through, but

useless. Content beloonet

was

hand

up at him, then turned to watch

softly, "I don't blame you. But

wanted to protect you both," Rupert blurted, not

squeezed his hand. Her silhouette flickered, insubstantial in the

you're the one who

couldn't the three of us ever

loving her mean breaking