Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 28

Early in the morning, there were few people around the university gate.

Sylvia, weary to her bones, was practically dragged into the car by Rupert; despite her struggling, there was always a strong force pulled her back.

Looking up, she realized he was almost teasing her, as if her attempts to get away were just a way to draw him in.

Exhausted, she finally let her arms fall limply by her side. Rupert pulled her closer, lifting her chin and touching the red mark on her forehead.

"Looks like someone never learns. Why did you leave the hospital?"

His tone was casual, as if he hadn't been the one insisting on her settlement just days ago.

Sylvia looked at him, feeling as though she could never truly understand him, not from her past life, not the current.

When she remained silent, Rupert tightened his grip on her chin. She felt like a doll in Rupert's hands, to be moved and manipulated at his whim.

Feeling humiliated, Sylvia clenched her teeth and forcefully slapped his hand away.

The sound echoed loudly in the confined space of the car, plunging it into silence.

Rupert's hand bore the mark of her fingers, stark against his pale skin.

Sylvia panicked for no reason, and then quickly turned her face away.

"Rupert, thanks for your concern. I know you're busy, so I won't bother you any longer."

With that, she reached for the door, only to hear it lock with a click.

Orson, standing outside, seemed to catch the sound and tactfully turned away.

The enclosed space suddenly made Sylvia recall the weight of Julian pressing down on her.

Rupert sat back, lighting a cigarette with an ease that soon filled the car with smoke, obscuring his expression.

Sylvia heard his mocking laughter, "Drugged me and got intimate with me, then played the innocent? Really?"

"It wasn't me!" Sylvia protested, though her voice carried a note of resignation.

"Evidence."