Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Fay lunged forward, trying to snatch Sylvia's phone, but Sylvia dodged away

easily.

All Fay could do was shout, "Don't call the police! I—I just heard some rumors, I'm not even sure they're true!"

"Oh, I see." Sylvia twirled her phone in her hand, her voice casual. "I thought as much. Ms. Langley must have gotten some bad info." She grinned. "Lucky for her, I forgot to hit dial."

It was only then that Fay realized Sylvia had played her for a fool.

Fay bit down on her lip so hard she nearly drew blood, her anger burning, but she didn't say a word.

Sylvia just flashed her a knowing smile.

After spending time together lately, Sylvia had learned that Fay wasn't just spoiled -she also fancied herself a bit of a genius.

Kay was out of her league, sure, but Fay? Not so much.

With the drama over, Sylvia picked up her wine glass and lifted it to the group, especially to Reese and Rupert. "Sorry for the spectacle, everyone. Didn't mean to kill the mood for our soon-to-be newlyweds. Cheers-I'll drink to that."

She was about to take a sip, then paused and looked over at Tristan. "Tristan, you can sit this one out. You're already tipsy enough to be talking nonsense. What kind of father doesn't care about his own son's reputation, huh?"

She downed her wine with a bright smile, while the Garcias across the table turned all shades of red and purple with rage.

Especially Tristan, who looked like he'd rather be anywhere else. Being mocked by someone he looked down on stung worse than a slap in the face.

It was then that Lester stood up.

Mr. Rupert, actually, it was me who invited Mrs. Naomi. I do intend to marry Sylvia, so

at Lester, but he

to smile back, but

her hand, she squeezed back, as if she'd found a lifeline in

storm.

quickly ushered everyone back to their seats and made sure Naomi had a spot at

had been part of the Garcia family for years-no one could

manners.

nobody really enjoyed their meal

called Lester aside for a private

discuss her. Whatever the outcome, she'd take it on

Naomi out of the

not lying. Whoever called

nodded. "I

deep down, she knew it

had looked so surprised, it

was actually

it definitely wasn't their

only one person who could pull

Kay.

glanced back inside and saw Kay cozied up, chatting and laughing with Reese and the

Garcias and Sanford's would probably let it slide for Kay's sake—after all, Kay had raised

driver honked the car