Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

After a couple of weeks, Sylvia's hard work spoke for itself. Everyone at the office could see her dedication, and it became pretty obvious that ignoring her was

pointless.

Bit by bit, things settled down. The team slipped back into their old routines.

That is, until Bridget showed up again.

It was just two days before her wedding to Rupert.

Bridget looked every bit the future Mrs. Garcia now-her clothes, her posture, even down to the family car and chauffeur waiting behind her, all unmistakably Garcia.

She blocked Sylvia's way right in front of everyone, wearing a gentle smile. "Sylvia, I want you to be my bridesmaid."

Sylvia blinked, caught off guard. She quickly regained her composure and brushed off Bridget's hand. "Sorry. I'm really busy these days. I don't have time to be your bridesmaid."

Bridget's voice stayed sweet, but every word was laced with threat. "Sylvia, I already explained to my followers that what happened was just an accident. I'm not mad. I just don't want people to get the wrong idea about us. And... your mom is with the Garcias now. Let's not make things awkward for the family, okay?"

She was guilt-tripping Sylvia using online rumors-and using her mom, Naomi, as leverage.

Sylvia scoffed. "Busy means busy. Did you hit your head too hard when you fell? Or was it always like this?"

"You-!" Bridget's eyes watered, and she glanced at the car behind her.

The window slid down, revealing Tristan's stern face.

He looked down his nose at Sylvia. "What's the matter? Do I need to come out and ask you in person?"

A chill ran down Sylvia's spine. She clenched her fists. "Fine. I'll be your bridesmaid."

Bridget immediately grabbed Sylvia's hand, all fake warmth and sugary smiles. "Great! Let's go. We're meeting Rupert at the dress shop to try on the wedding dress. You can try your bridesmaid dress, too."

Sylvia yanked her hand away. "No need for all that. Just give me the dress the day of."

Tristan coughed pointedly and nodded at the bodyguard up front. "Aren't you going to help Ms. Lloyd into the car?"

The bodyguard opened the door and nudged Sylvia inside.

Bridget was already settled in the plush leather seats, patting the spot next to her. "Come on, Sylvia! This car is Tristan's wedding gift to Rupert and me. You're the first friend I'm inviting for a ride." noveldrama

A million-dollar car, and Tristan didn't even blink.

Sylvia said nothing for the whole drive.

When they arrived at the bridal boutique, Tristan casually straightened his jacket and

murmured, "It's good mannerstonet

acceptekindness, but it's even more

important to keep your own dignity. Otherwise, you'll just end up embarrassing yourself."

Sylvia knew he was talking to her.

She ignored him and got out of the car.

Just then, Rupert's car pulled up.

He stepped out in a long wool coat. Sylvia hadn't seen him in a month, and through the winter twilight, across the little fountain by the shop, he looked almost like a stranger.

He walked over slowly, the evening wind ruffling his hair, a few stray water droplets catching the last light as they landed on his coat, making him seem even more distant.

Bridget glided to his side like a butterfly, looping her arm through his.

"Rupert, Sylvia's agreed to be my bridesmaid."

He barely reacted, just nodded. "Okay."

Rupert led Bridget over to Tristan. “Dad, you're here too?"

"Well, of course I am. This is your wedding, you think I wouldn't pay attention? What would I tell your mom? Tristan's mood actually softened, a hint of a smile breaking. through

Rupert nodded. "Let's head in."

The three of them walked into the boutique, laughing and talking like a perfect little family, while Sylvia trailed behind, the ever-present observer to their story.

She glanced up at the setting sun, swallowed the ache in her chest, forced a smile, and followed them inside.