Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 122

As Rupert guided Bridget out of the bar, her head resting on his shoulder, she shot Sylvia a venomous glance - one that could freeze fire.

It was as clear as day to Sylvia: Bridget was holding a new grudge.

Turning to Christine with a puzzled look, Sylvia asked, "What are you even talking about?"

"Sorry, Sylvia. I guess I had one too many and made a bad joke. Don't sweat it," Christine replied, her cheeks flushed a deep crimson from the alcohol.

Sylvia, knowing better than to take drunken words to heart, simply pressed her lips together and let it slide.

The night was young, and spirits were high as everyone seemed to let loose a little.

Christine, a tad unsteady on her feet, announced, "Being the newbie here, let me toast to the veterans." She downed her drink in one go and flipped her glass for all to see.

Then all eyes turned to Sylvia.

With a resigned smile, Sylvia stood up and raised her glass. "Here's to everyone."

The amount of liquor she had consumed, especially with Bridget egging everyone on earlier, left her feeling more than a little lightheaded.

And now, she was genuinely drunk.

As the evening wound down, people started to make their moves to leave.

Christine, supporting Sylvia, whispered, "Let one of the guys drive you home."

"I'll drive her."

"No, I will."

The offers came in left and right from the male colleagues.

Even in her inebriated state, Sylvia was aware enough to not want to stand out too much on her first outing with this group. She waved her phone at them. "I've called an Uber. You guys head out."

Christine furrowed her brows, obviously worried, but before she could voice her concerns, Sylvia slung her bag over her shoulder and flashed an easy smile.

Seeing that Sylvia seemed alright, everyone bid their goodbyes and left.

Sylvia sighed in relief, her legs wobbly as she took a moment to sit and gather herself before heading out.

...

In the parking lot, Bridget snuggled up to Rupert as they got into his car, the scent of wine mingling with her Chanel No. 5 perfume, creating a tantalizingly intimate atmosphere.