Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

He was clearly trying to embarrass Sylvia, not caring about the guests around

them, not even the presence of the Sanford siblings.

Every word he spat out was like poison, aimed right at Sylvia.

Under so many watchful eyes, Sylvia felt her cheeks burn with shame.

Suddenly, a hand slipped around her waist, gently pulling her a step forward.

"Tristan, is there some kind of misunderstanding between you and my date?"

"My date?" Tristan raised an eyebrow, skepticism and a hint of contempt flickering across his face.

Typical, he thought. Barely a moment alone and she's already cozying up to someone else.

Sylvia caught the look in Tristan's eyes straight away. Out of the corner of her eye, she glanced at Rupert's stoic face. In just those few seconds, all her strength seemed to drain away.

A chill seeped into her bones, making her ache inside and out.

She gave a cold laugh, “Lester, maybe I should just leave—if I stay, I doubt I'll be able to eat anything."

At the sound of "brother," Tristan's expression darkened even more.

"You-"

Lester, quick on the uptake, immediately noticed how Tristan was targeting Sylvia.

He smiled gently at her. "I'll go with you."

That seemed to put a stop to whatever Tristan wanted to say next.

Tristan might have a lot of pull in Kingstoria, but he'd never risk offending the Sanford family. "Please, after you."

Lester nodded politely. "Tristan, Mr. Rupert, after you."

As they walked into the hotel, everyone fell into step with Reese's slower pace.

Reese blushed, a little embarrassed. "Sorry to keep everyone waiting for me."

Tristan glanced sidelong at Sylvia, then turned on the charm. "Well, it's rare to see Rupert being so attentive."

Reese grinned up at Rupert, who just gave her a faint smile.

Sylvia trailed at the edge of the group, watching everyone laugh and chat like family, feeling oddly cold inside.

Naomi took the opportunity to sidle up and tugged at Sylvia's sleeve, whispering, "So, you and Mr. Sanford...?"

"Don't get any weird ideas. We're just business partners," Sylvia cut her off immediately.

“He seemed pretty into you, though! Just now, he totally saved you. Isn't that a sign?" Naomi teased with a wink.

"Mom, he's just being polite. That's all."

"You always have a comeback! Anyway, opportunities like this don't come often. Don't let it slip away."

Naomi looked pleased, but tried to hide it, nudging Sylvia a little closer to Lester. Once inside the private dining room, everyone took their seats.

Most of the conversation revolved around Rupert and Reese, and the mood was light and cheerful.

A few rounds of wine later, Reese's cheeks were flushed from the warmth and the drinks, making her look even more lively.noveldrama

She spoke up in her sweet, slightly spoiled tone, "Hey, bro, do you mind if I stay in Kingstoria for Christmas this year?"

Lester set his glass down and joked, "You sure you're not here for something—or someone else?"

Tristan joined in with a laugh, "Don't worry, Mr. Sanford. Rupert's been

showi

Reese a good time lately.

Us old folks are pretty much out of the loop now."

"Oh, stop it!" Reese pouted, shooting a quick look at Rupert.

Rupert didn't respond, just kept sipping his drink.

He wasn't the type to get drunk

easily, but tonight his cheeks weret tially composed face.

tinged with red-a rare sight on his

He was devastatingly handsome on any day, but the flush only made him look even more dangerous and magnetic.

"Mr. Rupert, don't overdo it just because you're happy tonight. To much wine isn't good. Here, let me get you some milk," Reese offered, her voice warm and affectionate as she stood to pour a glass.

Rupert caught her hand. "No need, I'll get it myself."

She patted his hand with a smile, "You don't have to be so nervous around me. I

can handle pouring a glass of milk."

Nervous?

Sylvia glanced at Rupert. Yep, he did look tense.

She drained the last of her tea and leaned over to Lester, murmuring, "I'm going

to the restroom for a bit."