Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 243

Before Sylvia could even say goodbye, the wheelchair spun around and whisked her out of Chris's office.

By the time they reached downstairs, the sky had turned a deep navy blue.

Seeing them approach, the driver immediately jumped out to open the car door.

"Rupert, I can just grab a cab home," Sylvia insisted, trying to stand up from the wheelchair.

But as soon as she took a step, her legs gave out beneath her, and she collapsed in front of Rupert.

Thank heavens Rupert caught her just in time.

How embarrassing!

Sylvia couldn't bring herself to look up, her cheeks burning with humiliation.

Above her, Rupert's voice drawled, teasing yet deep, "A bit early for New Year’s greetings, don’t you think? Or is it that my Christmas bonus wasn’t generous enough this year?"

Sylvia gritted her teeth, but there was no point in arguing. Since she joined the Garcia family, Rupert had never failed to slip her a festive envelope each year.

He wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her to her feet and making her meet his gaze.

"You’re always so polite to everyone else," he noted.

"Thanks," Sylvia mumbled awkwardly.

"What was that? I couldn't hear you," Rupert leaned in, reducing the space between them.

His warm breath mingled with the faint scent of his cologne, heating Sylvia’s cheeks to a fiery red. She tried to press him away, but he held her tighter, their bodies pressed against the car door.

Rupert watched her silently, clearly waiting for her to say it again.

Sylvia held her breath, then whispered, "Thank you."

"Alright," Rupert released her, his arms on either side of the car door, "Get in."

His tone was mild, but the authority in his voice left no room for argument.

Resigned, Sylvia climbed into the car.

As they drove away from the hospital, Rupert tapped his wristwatch, glancing at Sylvia.

"Dinner time. Let's grab something nearby."