Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 568

“Mr. Sanford?” Sylvia looked up at the man walking in.

Lester was holding a thermos bag, and when he spotted the takeout boxes on the table, he grinned. “Looks like someone had the same idea as me.”

To Sylvia’s surprise, Edwin lifted up the food he’d brought. “Mr. Sanford, I just stopped by to check on Sylvia. This is for her mom. Good timing, I guess.”

Sylvia’s eyes widened, silently pleading with Edwin not to misunderstand.

But Edwin just smiled. “I’ll leave you guys to talk.”

Before Sylvia could say a word, Edwin was already gone with his things.

She looked awkwardly at Lester. “Sorry… are you okay?”

She noticed the hospital gown peeking out from under Lester’s coat.

The ocean water had been freezing—most people wouldn’t have handled it.

Lester set the food down by the bed, opening the box as he reassured her, “I’m fine, just caught a bit of a chill. How about you?”

Trying to break the awkwardness, Sylvia jokingly lifted her limp arm.

“Yves nearly twisted my arm off, but other than that, I’m alright.”

“Let me see.”

Lester sat on the edge of the bed, his long fingers gently wrapping around her wrist, pulling her a little closer.

The sudden closeness made Sylvia flustered.

She tried to pull her hand back.

But Lester held on, his gaze intent. “Are you scared of me?”

“No,” Sylvia said honestly.

He slowly rolled up her sleeve, frowning as he saw the red mark on her arm. “You know what I was thinking when I pulled you out of the water?”

Sylvia shook her head.

“I didn’t want to keep waiting anymore.”

His palm was warm, and when she didn’t resist, he carefully lifted her arm and pressed a gentle kiss to the bruised spot.

Sylvia’s mind went blank.

“Should I organize our text messages into a report for Ms. Lloyd’s review?” Lester teased.

Sylvia scratched her head, not sure how to respond.

Lester let her off the hook. “Let’s eat. I asked Zion to pick up some milk—he should be here soon.”

She stared. “Zion, did you get mugged or something?”

“Mugged? Ms. Lloyd, that’s harsh! I just got punched by Orson, that’s all!” Zion grumbled, holding his face.

“Guess you’re just not as good as him,” Lester joked, taking the drinks.

Zion winced. “I told him, no hitting the face! He’s as ruthless as his boss—cold-blooded!”

“Zion,” Lester cut in, glancing at Sylvia.