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."

just sighed. "Let's give

left the

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

of burning wood filled his

jerked awake. Flames devoured the

could see the woman trapped inside

Sylvia.

was clutching something pink—a small

higher, licking at her dress, but she didn't move. She didn't

Get out of there!" Rupert screamed, running

but no matter how hard

looked up at him. Her

"Rupert, I hate you."

swallowed by the crashing of

Sylviat he

the fire as he

to get through,

useless. Content beloonet

was

hand

him, then

softly, "I don't blame you. But I can't forgive you

protect you both," Rupert blurted,

his hand. Her silhouette flickered, insubstantial in

you're the one who hurt us," she whispered

us ever be

did loving her