Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 108

Miriam hesitated, sparking curiosity all around as eyes turned towards Edwin and Naomi.

Naomi's face was ghostly pale, making her lips appear strikingly red. Edwin quickly took her hand, his usually composed face now clouded with embarrassment. He wanted to say something, but given his blackout from the night before, all he had were Naomi's words to go by—hardly enough to convince anyone.

That's when Sylvia gave him a look, prompting a subtle nod from Edwin. "It's alright."

"Thank goodness, or I'd feel terribly guilty," Miriam dramatically placed a hand over her heart.

Tristan frowned, probing, "What's going on?"

Miriam looked troubled. "I heard Mr. Edwin was keen on landing a deal with a potential client, so I arranged a dinner. But, as it turns out, Mr. Edwin and Mrs. Naomi had a bit too much fun. I had no choice but to send the client away early.

Next thing I know, Mrs. Naomi and Mr. Edwin were tumbling into the dumpster- buzzing with flies and smelling positively dreadful. I just had to ask if they were okay. Isn't that right, Mrs. Naomi?"

The room went quiet, many faces wrinkled in disgust at Naomi.

Naomi bit her lip, silent and visibly dimmed.

Bridget, in an apparent attempt to keep the peace, chided Miriam, "Mom, it's not like Mrs. Naomi did it on purpose. She's not used to the business social scene."

The underlying message was clear- Naomi messed up both the deal and their reputation by getting drunk and dragging Edwin into a dumpster—what a joke.

Tristan slammed his fork down, turning to Rupert. "Is this true? Or are they fabricating stories?"

Bridget looked at Rupert with pleading eyes, "Rupert, my mom isn't lying."

Rupert, casually sipping his coffee, replied indifferently, "Yes."

Across the table, Sylvia's heart sank upon hearing his confirmation.