Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

The leader swung his fist, and just like that, the VIP guy's nose snapped with a sickening crunch.

"Don't mess with people you shouldn't," the man warned, voice flat and dangerous.

“Y-yeah, I got it, I swear! Won't happen again!” The VIP guy was practically on his knees, begging for mercy-gone was all the swagger from a minute ago.

Chris let out a low whistle. "Well, looks like someone finally got what was coming to him."

He shot a glance at Sylvia and raised an eyebrow. "Feel better now?"

Sylvia gave a dry, sarcastic laugh. "Oh, sure. Maybe I should send the guy a trophy for 'heroic justice' or something."

Anyone could tell she was being sarcastic.

Chris blinked, surprised. "He just got his face smashed in and you're not even happy? The jerk was harassing you, wasn't he?"

Sylvia just shrugged, her tone cold. "Let me put it this way: say someone gets assaulted. You could step in and help then and there, but instead you wait until later to play avenger. Sure, some people like being anonymous heroes. Some apologize. But who actually pays the price? If it were me, I'd rather go down swinging than wait around for someone to save me."

Chris stared, glancing sideways at Rupert.

Rupert's face had gone even darker.

Sylvia gave a tight smile and turned away. "Anyway, I'm bored. I'm gonna hit the restroom."

Chris came over to Rupert with a

remember anything. You need to stop pushing

with a snap, and lit a cigarette. He tossed the lighter

"Since when did you get so weird about this

brooding, staring at where Sylvia

sort

him off, his tone suddenly serious. "What are you

Rupert didn't answer.

from the restroom, interrupting whatever tension was

go. If you guys have business to talk

stubbed out his cigarette and headed for the

said goodbye to Chris and

the way

up to the curb, Sylvia gave him a polite nod. "Thanks for the

was about to get out when suddenly Rupert grabbed her wrist and pulled her gently but firmly back toward

meet his gaze. His eyes were dark and unreadable

But the way hế looked

made her nervous.

to's

please let go," she

he replied, his