Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 432

The bitter chill swept through the long avenue, January winds cutting sharp along the frozen streets of Kingstoria.

Even in this lively city, winter wrapped everything in a quiet, somber hush.

Sylvia stepped out of the yellow cab, fumbling with her bags as she pulled up the collar of her oversized wool sweater to shield half her face from the biting cold.

As she turned, she caught sight of the Garcia Manor’s front gates, decked out in twinkling lights and festive ribbons—strange for this time of year.

It wasn’t Christmas, so what was the big occasion?

Sylvia waved to the security guy at the gate and hurried inside.

Naomi was on the porch, bossing the staff around as usual.

“Mom.”

“Sylvia, you’re here! What’s that? You wrapped it up so pretty.”

Naomi reached for the bag, but Sylvia tucked it behind her back. “Nothing, just something I grabbed on the way. What’s with all the decorations today?”

Naomi only answered once the staff finished sweeping the last of the fallen leaves. She linked arms with Sylvia and led her toward the dining room.

“Tristan’s got some guests coming over. Asked me to make it special. I guess my hard days are finally paying off. See those flowers I picked out? Aren’t they gorgeous?”

Sylvia glanced out the window. The arrangements were stunning, each bloom carefully chosen and arranged. The beauty of it all was almost blinding.

She forced a smile. “They’re lovely.”

In the dining room, the staff lined up to show Naomi the appetizers—platters of cheese, crackers, and fresh fruit for her approval.

Naomi surveyed everything with the air of a queen. Sylvia played along; after all, this was the first time her mother had been in charge in this house.

Just as they were laughing, footsteps echoed from the hall.

“Mr. Rupert.”

He was here.

Sylvia stood, subconsciously tightening her grip on her bag. With the room empty, maybe this was her chance to give it to him—better now than sneaking around later.

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