Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Tristan propped himself up, his voice heavy with memory. "You know I did it all to help you get stronger. Back in the day, marrying your mother made headlines- two old-money families joining together. Too bad, after you were born, her family lost everything."

Rupert Garcia's tone was ice cold. "You really don't know why my grandmother's family fell, do you? You and your uncles all but orchestrated their downfall, tricked them into a bad business deal, and bought the company for pennies. Mom wanted to save them with her trust fund, but you'd already convinced her to sign it over to me so you could block her from using it."

"You-"

Rupert ignored Tristan's shock and stepped closer, his gaze unwavering.

"How do I know? My mother died in my arms. She told me everything. She asked me to take it all back. You all thought a kid wouldn't remember, but I remember every single thing."

"Even what I saw in your office that day."

It wasn't just Patrick Garcia and Edwin Garcia caught up in their mess.

Rupert had followed them that day and seen it all.

Tristan's breath grew ragged. Before he could find words, there was a sharp snap —a fruit knife stabbed straight into the apple in front of him.

The apple looked untouched, but the plate beneath was already shattered.

Wiping his hands with a handkerchief from his pocket, Rupert's expression was calm, almost cold.

He said flatly, "If you want to enjoy your golden years, stop faking illnesses. One day you might get really sick, and then you'll need your loving sons to sign off on your treatment."

crimson with rage. "Are

never lose face. As for how we save you, I'll chat with Edwin

into the trash, right in front of Tristan. Watching

pretending? I promised everyone-once you get married, everything is yours. You've spent years building your claim, but now you

nothing and turned

is with Lester Sanford now, isn't it? That's why you're losing

liked me much, then suddenly you

came thought you finally

around, but no-it was right after Sylvia showed up at the Garcia house."

veins stood out on Rupert's

"You're taking

the Garn

be able to stop you for long But by

let

you're getting married. Aren't you going to care about Reese anymore? Or are you planning to

one who owes

another woman's life for

sounded gentle, but his eyes

didn't answer. He just walked out of the