Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Sylvia stepped out of the bar and headed straight to a private clinic.

She had barely entered the hospital room when Naomi hurled her phone at the white wall.

The device hit with a loud crack, the screen shattering instantly.

Naomi was curled up on the bed, clutching her head in agony. At the noise, she looked up, her eyes red- rimmed and brimming with tears.

It was obvious—she'd just gotten off a video call with Edwin, pretending everything was fine, but someone had clearly threatened her right after.

When Naomi saw Sylvia, she couldn't hold back anymore. Tears streamed down her face, smudging her carefully done makeup into a mess.

In just three or four days, she'd grown shockingly gaunt. Her cheeks were hollow, her whole appearance worn down.

So this was what Rupert had called "Your mom's fine now."

Sylvia hurried over and wrapped her arms around Naomi. "Mom, don't be scared. You won't have suffered for nothing.”

Naomi whimpered, trembling as she clung to her daughter.

It was well past midnight before Sylvia finally managed to coax Naomi to sleep.

She slipped out quietly, leaning wearily against the white hallway wall outside the room.

As she tipped her head back with a sigh, a sudden warmth bloomed on her cheek.

someone

concern, frowning. He

look like you're about to

of the milk seeped into her

She nodded gratefully. "Thanks."

coat over her shoulders, his voice thoughtful. "I leave town for

surprise. "How did you find

day. Worried someone

gaze lingered on

sip of milk, suddenly unable

voice dropped.

Cotonet

you. But it seems on abo ike

mouth went dry, the

was Lester's aunt the woman who'd raised him—and getting Lester involved would only make things

just can't talk about it right now. But please, trust me...”

Lester for long, but he chose to believe

But...

push her. Glancing at his watch, he

But... how did you

phone was off. I stopped by your place and ran into your neighbor-she said you had a friend

to come all