Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 495

But as Sylvia kept on laughing, suddenly her eyes blurred with tears.

She never thought he’d actually remember.

Every Christmas, Rupert was always the first to give her a card with a crisp bill tucked inside. Back in those days when her crush was still a secret, she’d look forward to that moment more than anything—because it meant she could finally talk to him, for real, about everything and nothing. For a few minutes, it almost felt like she mattered just a little more.

But today, all of that was coming to an end.

Sylvia clutched the envelope, lowering her head as her tears bloomed in little stains across the red paper. She covered her mouth with her hand, desperate not to make a sound and have Rupert notice.

An hour later, she was dressed in the outfit Rupert had picked out for her—a bright cherry red, double-breasted coat with a dramatic collar and a sash that hung down her side, festive and just a bit flirtatious. Around her neck, a vintage-style pearl and lace necklace added a touch of old-school glamour.

Rupert came down the stairs just as Sylvia was setting out breakfast.

“I was just about to call you over,” she said, grinning as she pointed to the spread—pancakes, crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and a small mountain of hash browns.

Rupert sat down slowly. “That’s a lot of food.”

“It’s Christmas morning—go big or go home,” Sylvia said, scooting her chair closer to his. “I made all your favorites. Try some.”

Rupert eyed the overflowing plates, then reached out and gently pinched her chin. “Did you poison any of this?”

Sylvia didn’t even try to pull away, just gave him a look. “Fine, I’ll eat it myself then.”

She started to turn away, but he gently guided her face back. “Maybe you should. I could use a little meat on my bones.”

Sylvia rolled her eyes but scooped up a forkful and shoved it into his mouth.

How had she never noticed he could be like this?

After breakfast, Rupert stood up to clear the plates, but Sylvia beat him to it.

“I’ll do it. First day of the year, you’re not allowed in the kitchen.”

“Is that a rule?”

“It is in my family.” Sylvia grinned, nudging him toward the hallway. “Come on, Mom’s texted me like five times already.”

As she ushered Rupert out the door, she glanced back at the kitchen, whispering a quiet goodbye.

…

The Garcia Manor.

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