Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

"Mr. Rupert? Mr. Rupert?"

Reese tugged gently at the man's sleeve beside her.

Rupert snapped back to attention, his voice cool and distant. "What is it?"

Reese's smile faltered for a second, but she quickly recovered. "We're heading home now."

"You and Ms. Winslet go on ahead. I need to stop by the office." Rupert slipped his arm from her grasp and shot a chilly glance at Kay.

The look sent a shiver down Kay's spine. She'd been about to nudge Reese into following Rupert, but under his icy stare, she could only put on a brave face and force a smile.

"Reese, I'll go back with you. Let's not keep Mr. Rupert from his work."

"Alright," Reese said, nodding, and followed Kay to the car.

Once the two women had left, Orson pulled up in front of Rupert and opened the car door for him.

Pressing down his suit jacket, Rupert paused before getting in, his voice low. "I want you to personally keep an eye on Sylvia."

Orson looked puzzled. "She's got nothing left. I doubt she'll try anything."

don't know her like

"Understood, sir."

the way back

out the

that Mr. Rupert's moving back

at Kay, almost glaring. "Aunt Kay, was it you who talked Tristan into moving Mr. Rupert's

of you!"

to think of me now? That I'm just desperate to have him around? We're not even

so frustrated

hurriedly dug through her purse for Reese's inhaler, handing it over and rubbing her back. "I just want you two

"Aunt Kay, did you already know about Sylvia

split second, then muttered, "I just overheard it from Mrs. Hanson during our poker

practically been raised by Kay-she didn't want to doubt

more awkward run-ins like today. I don't want to use other people to make myself look good. Sylvia might have her faults, but she's not a bad

palm of your hand. If I

"Reese, you're kind, but not everyone

hesitated, biting

patted her hand. "I could tell from the moment I saw her-she's up to something. I just wanted to show her she's not welcome. love you like my own, Reese. I won't let anyone ruin

argue, but some small,