Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

With solid evidence against Hilbert surfacing, Freya and Bridget's sneaky antics suddenly made perfect sense.

Sylvia's online profile unexpectedly attracted a wave of supportive messages.

"Hey girl, heard you're besties with Freya. Looks like she stabbed you in the back! Maybe steer clear of her."

"Checked out the timeline-no way those jewels could've been swapped without someone on the inside helping Mr. Carmen. Watch your back."

"I've been meaning to warn you. Freya often secretly meets with Bridget. Be careful."

Reading these comments, Sylvia almost chuckled.

Rupert set down his teacup, his voice calm, "Why so cheerful?"

Sylvia quickly suppressed her smile, remembering he was still there. He was fiercely protective of Bridget and might think she was stirring up trouble.

"Uncle Rupert, if you suspect I'm framing Bridget, feel free to investigate yourself. Wouldn't want your fiancée feeling slighted."

Rupert frowned, rubbing his temples.

Sylvia ignored Rupert's expression, continuing to respond to the kind messages on her phone. Before she knew it, exhaustion took over, and she fell asleep against a pillow.

Rupert shifted slightly, glancing at Sylvia. His scarf was under her cheek, complementing her features. She wrinkled her nose and adjusted her position, falling back into a peaceful slumber.

His gaze lingered for a moment, a hint of soft light in his eyes, until the phone screen lit up. He glanced at it, his expression instantly cooling.

After carrying her to her room, Rupert hesitated at the door before leaving into the night.

...

Garcia Manor.

The night cast a solemn shadow over the stately home.

Rupert entered the study, steam from a freshly brewed pot of coffee swirling

around, failing to warm his icy demeanor.

Tristan Garcia didn't look up, methodically preparing the coffee.

The room was filled with the rich aroma, yet a tense silence lingered.

After a while, Tristan casually asked, "Where were you?"

"Dealing with the Carmen family."

Rupert sat down, his face a mask of calm.

Tristan poured a cup for Rupert, his movements unhurried. "Working late? Since when did you take such an interest in the Carmen family? I've told you before to seize the opportunity to rein them in, but you never seemed interested. Now look where it's gotten us."

"Warren is still my older brother's only son. Going too far could harm the Garcia family's reputation. But now he's overstepped, it's time to set an example, or everyone will think they can mess with the Garcias."

Rupert spoke evenly, though his eyes were steely.

Tristan paused, his cup midway to his lips. "Is that the only reason?"

"What else?"

Rupert sipped his coffee without a hint of emotion.

Tristan studied him briefly, nodding slightly. "And Bridget? The situation with the mines can't be held off much longer."

"I've talked to her. Given the Simpson family's current state, she doesn't have any other choices." Rupert's tone was icy.

bu

"You're tough on her, letting her dad invest so much in the Carmen family. This hole is something the Simpson family won't easily climb out of."

Tristan poured more coffee, his gaze still on Rupert.

Rupert rested a finger on the rim of his cup, unfazed by the heat. "Those who push others down must learn their lesson."

Hearing this, Tristan put the coffee pot down and waved a hand dismissively.

"Alright, I trust your judgment. It's late, finish your coffee and get some rest."

"Sure."

Rupert stood and left.

As the study door closed quietly, Tristan's expression darkened. He gestured to the butler.

The butler approached respectfully, "Mr. Garcia."noveldrama

"Keep an eye on Sylvia," Tristan instructed.