Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

"So you're really just going to judge someone without checking the facts first?"

Rupert's eyes were dark and unreadable as he looked at Sylvia, his tone cold. "I don't need to."

Sylvia glanced at Rupert's protective arm around Reese. What a devoted husband—he'd do anything for his wife. Even Kay, Reese's aunt, was ready to stand by her side.

She let out a short, bitter laugh, ready to retort, but Kay, standing across from her, slowly twisted the ring on her finger-a warning, or maybe a threat.

"I think Ms. Lloyd is just doing this for Mrs. Naomi's sake," Kay said smoothly. "Why don't we call Mrs. Naomi over to clear things up? Wouldn't want any more misunderstandings, right?"

Kay knew perfectly well Naomi couldn't come. She wasn't allowed.

Sylvia felt her throat go dry, but finally forced herself to speak.

"Ms. Winslet, I'm sorry."

"Can I go now?"

She turned to leave.

"Stop right there! Who said you could leave?" Tristan barked. "Ms. Winslet is Reese's aunt and a guest of honor in the Garcia family. Just because she forgives you doesn't mean the Garcias will."

"You moved in with your mom when you were sixteen. The Garcia family put a roof over your head, fed you, clothed you, and you kept causing trouble. And now you think you can just walk out?"

sixteen. But from day one, I worked to support myself.

back. "She hasn't earned a penny all these

do you want,

owe. Last time you got out

No more ties to the Garcia family at all —not a single

each word sharp as

said, his

"Good."

left her

looked down at her, anger smoldering in his expression. "Sylvia.

caught a glimpse of Reese's shocked, wavering

you have

she turned and strode away without looking

Garcia Manor.

punishment. She knelt on the freezing stone steps outside, melting snow seeping through her jeans, chilling her to the bone Still, she sat up

expressionless. s

down at her

family

ongerit's done