Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 539

Chris immediately picked up on Sylvia’s distrust and jumped in to defend Rupert.

“Sylvia, come on. No matter what, he’s helped you out a lot. If he wanted something bad to happen to you, why would he take the risk? Don’t just write him off like that.”

Sylvia’s brows knit together, her long lashes fluttering as she looked away, a touch of sadness and self-mockery flickering across her face.

She pressed her pale lips into a thin line before letting out a soft, dry laugh.

“Alright, since you trust him so much, you can tell him who I’m looking for. But don’t tell him everything, okay? I’m not sure about Yves and Kay, and I don’t want Reese to think I’m falsely accusing her aunt.”

“I get it. See, now you’re talking sense. Mr. Rupert could find anyone in his sleep. I’ll let you know when I hear something.”

Chris sighed in relief and hurried off.

Sylvia watched him go, her gaze cold and distant. Her slender wrist tensed unconsciously, her eyes a storm of tangled emotion.

Back in the hospital room, Naomi sat at the edge of the bed, lost in thought.

“Mom.”

Naomi snapped out of her daze and waved her over. “Come sit down and eat something.”

“What’s wrong?” Sylvia asked gently, settling beside her.

“I just saw the forecast—it’s supposed to get real cold tonight. All of Edwin’s clothes, I’m the one who packs them. What if he can’t find his warm coat?”

Naomi was talking about coats, but really, she just missed Edwin. The two of them were rarely apart.

Sylvia took her hand. “Mom, we’ll be home soon. I promise.”

After they ate, Sylvia stayed with Naomi for a while longer.

Just before sunset, Chris texted her.

“Found him. Sent you the address. By the way, I think he’s onto something.”

Sylvia gave him a once-over, then slid the drink back to him. “Sorry, you’re not really my type. But this round’s on me.”

She made sure her voice carried, letting everyone know exactly why she was here—to find a man.

It wasn’t long before she was turning down one after another, until finally, someone interesting bit.

“Stefen.” The man introduced himself, reaching out with an air of practiced charm. Every inch of him was perfectly styled.

“Wanna grab a booth and a drink?” Sylvia asked, amused.

“I’d be honored. Not every day I get to share a drink with such a beautiful lady.”

He offered his arm and Sylvia slipped hers through it, smiling as they moved toward a quieter corner.

She hadn’t expected things to go this smoothly—so much so that she missed the man watching from the shadows.