Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Sylvia couldn't believe Rupert would be so bold in the Garcia estate, especially with Warren right there. So, she simply ignored his words, still secretly straining against the restraint.

When she looked up, their eyes locked. Rupert's gaze was as deep and dangerous as a moonless night. As his face came into clearer focus, Sylvia realized Rupert was getting closer, totally unfazed by Warren's watchful gaze right across from them. Panic finally set in for Sylvia. She pushed against him, nodding vigorously, signaling that she would go with him.

Rupert paused, casually removing a leaf tangled in her hair. His voice was as cool as ever. "You had something there."

Sylvia immediately knew she'd been played. Her nose wrinkled in frustration, but she felt helpless. She turned to Warren. "Warren, I've got to run."

Warren offered a slight smile. "Go on, then. Make sure you rest up."

"Thanks." With that, Sylvia took the chance to pull away and leave.

Rupert didn't follow right away. Instead, his deep gaze lingered on Warren for a moment longer.

"Do you need anything, Warren?"

"No," Warren replied with a slight bow and a smile.

"Hmm."

It wasn't until Rupert had left that Warren slowly lifted his gaze, watching the direction they'd gone. A gentle breeze stirred, carrying away his unfathomable thoughts.

...

Sylvia hurried along, accidentally stepping on a protruding cobblestone. Her not-yet-healed ankle twisted again, sending her crashing to the ground in pain. "Who's trying to kill you?"

Rupert's voice, laced with amusement, came from behind.

Sylvia looked up to see the towering figure, glaring at him.

Wasn't it obvious? The reckless night had passed, the pregnancy scare was over, and she had shown him the negative test. What more did he want?

Trying to stand, Sylvia winced at the pain. Then Rupert effortlessly scooped her up in his arms.

Sylvia yelped, "Put me down! Someone might see!"

"Weren't afraid when you were going mad. Scared now?"

As Rupert spoke, he pinched Sylvia's waist, sending a shiver through her body. She went limp in his arms, her cheeks flushing a few degrees warmer.

Rupert looked down, a knowing glint

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in his eyes. He was well aware of her sensitivities-how even the slightest touch could make her blush uncontrollably. Under the sunlight, her skin seemed to glow, revealing an almost ethereal texture

Rupert quickened his pace, his breath growing short.

Sylvia, unable to resist or scream for help, simply huddled closer, dreading being spotted by anyone from the Garcia family. When she came to, she found herself in Rupert's private villa.

She was gently placed on a plush leather couch, backed by a screen valued at seven million. The space was elegantly minimalistic yet carried an air of subdued grandeur. Even Rupert, with his dangerous aura, seemed perfectly at home here, exuding an almost imperial presence.

But...

As far as Sylvia knew, Rupert hated visitors at his villa. Even the cleaning staff were handpicked by him. Having been around the Garcias for a while she'd always pretended to just be passing by, sneaking glances to see if he was around.

Thinking back on her girlish crush, Sylvia felt a bit foolish.

Lost in thought, a sudden sharp pain in her foot jolted her. She looked down in surprise.