Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 288

Sylvia picked up the paring knife from the fruit bowl on the coffee table in the living room.

She had a feeling Rupert would come.

And he did. But he was quick to stop her knife.

With seemingly little effort, he caught the blade, rendering Sylvia's attempts to push it forward completely useless.

Her eyes were red and filled with hatred, but her face was a mask of despair, her lips bitten hard enough to leave deep imprints, a hint of crimson seeping through.

Rupert's gaze was inscrutable as he watched her.

As Sylvia's strength waned, Rupert's grip loosened, and the knife slashed across his palm, leaving a trail of blood.

Sylvia froze in shock.

Rupert merely remarked, "What now?"

"You're insane! Absolutely insane!"

Sylvia dropped the knife and turned to leave.

Rupert was quicker, catching her by the nape of her neck, pulling her back to him, and planting a forceful kiss on her lips.

Sylvia's eyes widened as she struggled against him, her fists pounding on his chest, but he was unyielding, his kiss deepening.

Rain dripped from his hair, sliding down his face, his eyes clouded with something she couldn't quite decipher.

As the rain intensified, cold droplets pelted their skin, making Sylvia shiver. The man before her finally pulled away, his hand still half-gripping her throat, his voice both urgent and restrained.

"If I weren't crazy, how else could I..."

Thud, thud, thud, the rain pounded on the umbrella, cutting off his words. Sylvia glanced up to see Orson holding a large umbrella over them.

"Mr. Rupert, the autumn rain's chill. You've only just recovered, and Ms. Lloyd isn't in the best of health either," Orson said with concern.

Rupert frowned at the sight of the drenched Sylvia. "Get in the car."

"Let go! I'm not going anywhere with you! Uncle Rupert! Remember, none of this is your business!" Sylvia emphasized the "Uncle Rupert" with a bitter edge.