Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Rupert flicked his lighter, feeling the heat from the tiny flame.

Hearing that kind of talk from another man was pretty ironic.

He let out a short, cold laugh, his expression hardening.

Lester didn't seem to care. He went on, "The Garcia family's power web is a mess. Sure, you've taken over a good chunk, but Tristan still holds the rest. If you want to control the whole Garcia family, it's gonna take time. But, let's be honest, Tristan only needs one move to have you dancing in his palm."

Like, say, Sylvia.

At that, the lighter in Rupert's hand snapped shut. The metal was burning hot against his palm, like he'd just grabbed a handful of needles.

Lester didn't linger on the Garcia mess. He just clapped Rupert on the shoulder.

"Look, I'm only here because of my sister. I don't want her getting herself in trouble. If she does, you won't just owe her your life-things'll get a whole lot messier."

Everyone knew that what Reese had said earlier wasn't just her losing her cool-it was a bunch of pent-up feelings finally bursting out.

With that, Lester left the balcony.

Rupert lit a cigarette, but didn't smoke it-just let it burn out between his fingers.

Kitchen.

Sylvia waited for the kettle to boil, washing fresh veggies in the sink.

Just as the kettle started to whistle, she was about to make some tea when she heard a familiar voice.

"I'll get it."

It was Reese.

and kept her head down,

her, Reese scooped some loose-leaf

I

her

even know what's gotten into me,"

off a whole handful of

overthinking this." She brushed the moment off with

stared at her for a long second.

what they were really thinking-maybe that's

making tea and

Lester, can you bring these out? I'll help Sylvia with the

"Sure."

the tray, and glanced around the kitchen. Seeing everything calm, he finally

Reese helping, Sylvia's meal prep sped

some soup when

I'm here is to

"A gift?"

Rupert and

for

rings for

they're perfect

a lot, since

held up her hand, showing