Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

The hall was vast, yet Rupert's presence seemed to freeze the air around him, making it hard for anyone to breathe.

He remained silent. But everyone knew he was furious.

He took out a cigarette pack, lit one up, and exhaled a cloud of smoke that veiled his face. Through the hazy mist, his gaze on Sylvia was unreadable.

"Get lost."

Tristan then waved his hand in displeasure.

Naomi helped Sylvia to her feet. Sylvia pulled her hand away, standing tall and firm in the center of the hall, her voice strong and clear, "Since I'm such an inconvenience here, I'll move out at once. Grandpa, thank you for your care over the years." She was determined to leave with her dignity intact, unlike in her past life, where she was always cautious and fearful.

With that, Sylvia turned and left.

The looks that followed her were dangerous and sharp.

...

Stepping out of the hall, Sylvia felt the wave of nausea and dizziness hit her, side effects of the amount of the pills she'd been taking.

She barely made it a few steps before fainting. When Sylvia awoke, Naomi was sitting by her bedside, eyes rimmed with red.

Seeing her awake, Naomi slapped her, not hard, more like a tickle.

"Did you want to scare me to death? You can't just mess around with those pills."

"Mom, it's pointless. I can never escape the Garcia family if I don't take it," Sylvia said weakly.

"You...what a tough life! I told you before to mingle with the wealthy young men. Marrying well could have given you a comfortable life," Naomi advised.

"Like you?"

What kind of comfortable life was that?

Naomi bit her tongue. Then, the door opened, and Edwin came in with a bowl of soup.

"You're awake. Have some soup, it'll make your stomach feel better."

Sylvia was about to thank him when she noticed a cut on Edwin's ear, likely from something sharp. Tristan must be behind this. He never liked their side of the family, disdaining his second son for his simplicity and for marrying a woman with a daughter. Sylvia apologized, "I'm sorry for causing trouble. I'll leave as soon as I can."

"Don't talk nonsense!" Naomi chided.

Edwin patted her shoulder gently, "The doctor said Sylvia needs to take her medication. Go get some warm water."

Naomi stood up instantly and left.

Sitting beside the bed, Edwin sighed, "Do you really have to go, Sylvia?"

"Staying here will only cause more trouble for you and Mom. I'm grown up; I can take care of myself."

"It's my fault, if only I was more capable." Edwin took out a card and slipped it under Sylvia's pillow, "Don't refuse it. You'll need money out there. The pin is your birthday. Be careful. If anything happens, call me or your mom." "Thank you," Sylvia said gratefully.

Edwin looked at Sylvia, suddenly uttering, "Rupert acted so strange today, totally out of character."

"What do you mean?" Sylvia asked, confused.

"When your mom yelled that you'd fainted, Rupert actually rushed out, carrying you away. If Dad hadn't ordered someone to bring you back, you'd still be at his place." "What?" Sylvia clutched the blanket in shock.

"Don't worry, Rupert said he was afraid you'd die on Garcia family property, which would cause a scandal."

"Right."

That sounded like Rupert, Sylvia thought bitterly.

What happened last night seemed like a dream. After resting and taking her medicine, Sylvia packed a bag.

She avoided Naomi when leaving, knowing her departure would only make her sorrow.

Leaving the Garcia Manor, the servants all lowered their heads as she passed, as if afraid of being associated with her.

Standing on the porch, she watched the evening darken. The day was finally coming to an end.

Autumn in Kingstoria arrived early, the evening breeze chilling and mournful.

Sylvia tightened her grip on her bag and quickened her pace away from the manor.

The Garcia Manor was a private garden-designed, though in the prime location of Kingstoria, the family having bought out all surrounding land to avoid outside disturbances.