Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 450

The warmth of the tea slid down Sylvia’s throat, easing the scratchiness and calming her nerves.

Gradually, she started to relax. The person beside her gently grazed her lips with his thumb, as if he was handling something precious.

He leaned in closer, his breath hot against her cheek.

Sylvia instinctively held her breath. Even though her vision was blurry, she could tell he was inches away—close enough that the slightest movement would close the gap between their lips.

Just then, the meds fully kicked in, and Sylvia’s limbs went limp. She slumped onto the couch.

Almost immediately, a strong arm wrapped around her, pulling her close. The steady beat of his heart thudded in her ear—a strange comfort.

Half-conscious, she felt a soft kiss land on her forehead.

“Get some rest.”

His deep, gentle voice seemed almost magical, lulling Sylvia into a peaceful, dreamless sleep.

When she opened her eyes again, she was staring at a white ceiling. She touched her forehead—no more fever, thankfully. But she still felt as weak as a kitten.

She reached for the glass of water on the coffee table, but her arm just wouldn’t cooperate.

A hand appeared, putting the glass gently into her grasp.

“You’re awake?”

That voice…

Sylvia looked up—and froze. “Mr. Sanford? What are you doing in my apartment?”

Lester reached out to help her sit up and take a sip of water. “Don’t worry, it’s not what you think. I was passing by your studio to ask about a design, but your coworker said you were sick. I got your address and came to check on you. Tried calling and knocking, but you didn’t answer. Your neighbor happened to come home—she had your spare key, so we let ourselves in.”

Sylvia and Ms. Ward were both single women, and for safety’s sake, they each kept a spare key to the other’s place.

Clutching her cup, Sylvia mumbled a thank you, feeling embarrassingly awkward. So the person from earlier was really Lester?

She glanced around the room as if expecting to find someone else, but it was just Lester. The realization made her feel a little silly.

Lester noticed her glance. “Feeling any better?”

Sylvia nodded. “Much better, thanks.”

“Let’s get you something to eat. You’ll feel stronger.” Lester gestured to the dining table.

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