Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Sylvia hung her head, her hands trembling so badly she had to grip the doorknob just to steady herself, digging her fingers in until her knuckles ached.

She stumbled back to the couch, feeling like a ghost in her own living room.

She had no idea how long she sat there, lost in her thoughts, until the doorbell rang again, sharp and sudden.

Sylvia jumped to her feet, her body moving almost on instinct, as if to open the door without a second thought.

But at the last second, she stopped herself, lowering her hand with forced restraint.

The doorbell rang again, more urgently this time, and then, without warning, someone on the other side opened the door and came in.

Sylvia's lips parted in surprise when she saw who it was.

"Ms. Ward?"

"Why weren't you answering? I thought something happened to you," Ms. Ward said, her voice tight with worry.

"I'm fine," Sylvia replied softly.

Ms. Ward frowned, glancing at the door. "If you're fine, why are there all these meds hanging on your door?"

She handed Sylvia a paper bag.

Sylvia's arms sagged under the weight. She peered inside-it was full of burn ointments and bandages.

She knew instantly who had left them there.

Ms. Ward leaned in, concern etched on her face. "Did you burn yourself? Let me see-don't want that leaving a scar."

held out her hand. "It really doesn't hurt

before finally relaxing. "Well, these meds are a little late, don't you think? What

had sent them, so she just spoke her

to Sylvia, that offhand comment stung like a

shame and frustration-she'd almost opened the

came too late, like stale candy nobody wanted. He could ask her at dinner, but he chose to do it quietly, when no one was

They both knew why.

Reese.

as she set

alright?" Ms. Ward noticed the change in her face and

"It's nothing You look gorgeous today are you seeing

Ward's attention. She

boyfriend. We just started

You're seeing someone?"

had always seemed so cautious around men. And now,

her a sheepish

I'm going to

stay

single forever, right?" s

a jerk, you find someone better to help

around,

how will I ever meet someone good if I don't give

the quick, meaningful glance Ms. Ward shot her, and

evening, she managed a

weren't just for herself—they