Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 598

As Rupert held her hand, his grip tightened, just a bit.

But when she finished her last sentence, all the strength suddenly left him, and they let go of each other.

He didn’t look at Sylvia—his profile was shadowed with something heavy and unspoken.

Not a word passed between them as Sylvia walked away.

She stepped outside, took a few deep breaths, and turned back for a glance.

By then, Rupert had already disappeared into the ballroom.

He flashed a faint smile as he caught sight of Reese’s beaming face.

Sylvia tilted her head up to the sun, but her cheeks were damp and cold.

One last time.

Really, the last time.

By the time Lester came out, Sylvia had already touched up her makeup.

She pressed her lips together, hesitating. “So, about your dad…”

Lester laughed. “You don’t have to be so nervous. My dad’s always been pretty open-minded. He told me ages ago he’d never meddle with my relationships. He and my mom fell for each other on their own terms, and after she passed, it took him a long time to move on. I think that’s why he really gets how important love is.”

“So, what did he want to talk about?”

“He just asked about you, wanted to know what I think. He said he’ll respect my decisions, but hopes I’ll be careful—he wants me to think about what the future might look like.”

Lester’s words sounded exactly like something Scott would say—honest, a little worried, but never overbearing. He hadn’t criticized Sylvia or tried to interfere; he just wanted them to handle things themselves.

Sylvia finally felt her anxiety ease.

Lester noticed her red eyes and grinned. “Hey, why the tears? Gonna miss me that much?”

Sylvia hesitated, not wanting Lester to overthink it, but also worried Reese might pick up on something and come running.

She sidestepped the truth: “Ran into a total lunatic. Gave me a real scare.”

Lester seemed to get the hint and didn’t pry.

“Come on, I’ll walk you home.”

“Okay.”

She followed him out.

“Ms. Winslet, don’t you have something better to do?”

Just one look, and Kay’s confidence shriveled—she fell silent, awkward and pale.

“I’ve got things to do. I’m leaving.”

“Rupert!” Tristan barked, face flushed with anger.

Rupert didn’t even pause, striding straight out the door.

No one dared try and stop him.

Once he reached the car, Reese slipped in beside him.

They sat at opposite ends of the back seat in silence, the tension thick.

Finally, Reese couldn’t take it anymore. She scooted a little closer to Rupert.

She smiled sweetly and clung to Rupert’s arm, her voice soft and coaxing.