Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

The moment Yves heard that Reese had mentioned him, he immediately let go and grabbed Lester's hand with both of his.

"Mr. Sanford, pleasure to meet you."

Sylvia finally managed to slip away, shooting Lester a grateful look.

Lester kept his cool. "Let's head inside. Reese isn't in the best of health-she can't be out in the cold for long."

Yves nodded quickly. "Sorry, that was my mistake. After you please."

Hearing this, everyone instinctively stepped aside, clearing a path for Rupert and Lester.

Once they'd gone in, Sylvia rolled up her sleeve and grimaced at the clear red marks Yves had left on her arm.

Yves was terrifying.

She grit her teeth against the pain and hurried to catch up with the group. As they entered, Sylvia noticed Mrs. Hanson still had her sunglasses on. "Mrs. Hanson, aren't you going to take off your sunglasses?"

Mrs. Hanson shot her a sharp look and snapped, "Is that any of your business? You're not even part of this family yet, and already you want to play mother-in- law? Once you're actually in, I'll be sure to teach you some proper manners."

With that, she adjusted her sunglasses and stalked off.

Sylvia watched her leave with a curious expression, her gaze lingering on Mrs. Hanson's designer purse.

to the VIP suite. There, a

you first," said

barely able to contain her excitement. After a few steps, she spun playfully and called, "No matter how I look,

her a small, amused smile.

just looked quietly at Rupert, clearly hoping for his

a tiny nod.

Reese finally followed the

the wall of snow-white gowns, Sylvia felt

out, but Kay called after her

help her pick. You'll be choosing your own wedding dress soon

is a big deal. Oh, but silly me-your mom's been married twice, right? I heard. she never had a real wedding either time no dress, no ceremony Not much advice she could give you,

meet Kay's

disdain radiating from the Hansons, mother and son

her, sharp and cold. She struggled to catch her

rush to reply. Instead, she flicked her eyes

counted silently

simply poured some hot water into Reese's teacup,

for him not

a

mouth to speak, Lester stood up

"Aunt Kay, that's enough."