Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Rupert shot a frosty glance at the two people in the car with him.

The stoplight was red for ninety seconds-long enough for Sylvia and Lester to say a lot to each other.

The last time Sylvia had talked to him that much was back at the lake house, when she'd tricked him.

As soon as the light turned green, Sylvia disappeared around the corner without a backward glance.

Rupert frowned and rubbed his temples, feeling the familiar ache.

Orson noticed and asked, "Mr. Rupert, want me to pull over and grab your meds?"

Ever since the fire at the lake house, Rupert had been getting these headaches, though the doctors said nothing was actually wrong.

Chris kept insisting it was stress, that he was pushing himself too hard.

Rupert just stared out the window, silent, absently fiddling with his wedding band. He used to twist it as a reminder of responsibility. Somewhere along the way, it just became something to fidget with while he zoned out.

They pulled up to the Garcia estate. The butler was out front, directing staff as they hauled luggage around.

realized those were his own bags from the apartment in

voice was icy. "What's going

back a little from Rupert's

came Tristan's stern

subtle nod. Only then did Rupert head

lot to handle," Tristan said briskly. "It's not convenient for you to be running all over

shot him a glare. "Did you forget you're getting married in a month? Living alone in

Rupert's face was unreadable as he

coffee and shortbread cookies. Rupert sipped calmly, making it clear he had no

started to lose his cool first. "So you're not even going to talk to

lately-shouldn't I be

company's board wives

deal hinges on

gaze was sharp and cold as he looked at the older man, who, despite his pride,

a deal

among the board wives. Plenty of wealthy, influential women listened to her. that crowd started meddling in

gave a dismissive snort. "If you don't want to handle it, I'll

me?" Rupert set his cup down, voice low and steely. "You've always known Kay has her eye on Edwin and you know what she's capable of. So you know damn well I won't let Edwin