Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

As Fay listened, she grew more and more frustrated, blurting out, "Weren't you

just settling, too? Even as an outsider, I could tell Mr. Rupert doesn't look at Sylvia like he does everyone else. There's no way you didn't notice. You still married Mr. Rupert, so why is it suddenly such a big deal if I do the same?"

"I mean, I'm from the same kind of background as the Sanfords. Our families have known each other for years; we know everything about each other. What does Sylvia have that I don't?"

At that, Reese's breath caught in her throat and her face went pale as a sheet.

Kay, however, didn't stop Fay. She just sipped her Earl Grey calmly, unfazed. That little brat really thought she could throw her weight around here.

All these years, and she still hadn't learned anything.

Maybe it was good for Fay to give her a reality check. These days, if you don't fight for what you want, you'll end up with nothing. Did Reese really think good things would just fall into her lap?

Honestly, if Sylvia weren't at least a little bit principled, she could've had Rupert eating out of her hand. Even if she agreed to just be his mistress, she'd be better off than Reese.

Seeing Reese's color turn worse by the second, Kay finally put down her teacup and hurried over, rubbing Reese's back in an attempt to calm her down.

Kay spoke gently but firmly. "Reese, I owe you an apology. It was me who called Naomi."

"I'll admit, I was acting out of selfishness, but Fay isn't wrong."

she could've just married some regular guy and called it a day. Why did she have to go

into her constantly. What if she and Mr. Rupert start up again? Where will that leave you and

are like my own kids. I raised you both; what mother doesn't want her children to end up happy and well-matched? If your mom

poured her

still grateful for everything Kay had done for her growing up, finally softened. "Aunt Kay,

forcing a smile and shooting Fay a knowing

Reese's hand "Reese, I'm sorry, I shouldn't

but you

walk all over you.

Sylvia

wise she'll

scared

belongs to s

pulled her hand back, pressing her aching head. "Let me think about

started, unhappy

rest. Let's go," Kay

her toward the

lips