Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 118

As Sylvia turned around at the sound, a woman in a sleek black suit stood before her, exuding an air of professionalism.

“Remember me? Christine.”

Third place in the competition.

Sylvia nodded politely. “Of course, nice to see you again.”

Christine adjusted her suit and brushed a stray hair from her face. “Thanks for stepping down for me last time.”

“It’s nothing. We should head up now; we can catch up later.” Sylvia glanced at her watch, not wanting to be late on her first day of internship.

“Right.” Christine followed eagerly. “Sylvia, honestly, I think your work deserved first place.”

Sylvia stopped and cautioned. “Christine, keep that thought to yourself, alright?”

Bridget wasn’t as indifferent to fame and jealousy as she appeared. She couldn’t stand the slightest critique.

Unexpectedly, just as Sylvia finished her warning, the elevator doors opened, revealing Bridget, who had arrived from the underground parking.

Both Sylvia and Christine paused, unsure if Bridget had heard.

At first glance, Bridget’s makeup seemed immaculate, but up close, it was slightly overdone, barely concealing the dark circles under her eyes. Seems like last night’s soup did its magic.

But Bridget was an actress at heart. Her gaze briefly met Sylvia’s before warmly resting on Christine. “Christine, we didn’t get to talk much during the competition. Rupert and I really admired your work.”

“Really? Thank you and Rupert.” Christine’s face lit up, admiration clear in her eyes for Bridget.

“It’s my pleasure.” Though her words were for Christine, Bridget’s gaze lingered on Sylvia. Manipulating emotions was a game she played well.

Exiting the elevator, Christine made way for Bridget, whispering to Sylvia, “Ms. Simpson is nicer than I thought.”

Bella scoffed. “Eloise is away, so I’ll be briefing you on some rules. Here, it doesn’t matter who you are, mess up, and you’re out.”

“Understood.”

The three echoed.

Bridget stepped forward, pulling a wooden box from her bag. “Bella, this is from Rupert’s vineyard. He wanted you to have a taste.”

Sylvia noticed the label, recognizing it as from Rupert’s exclusive vineyard- producing wines only for the elite, some of which cost tens of thousands.

Rupert really went out of his way to support Bridget.

At the mention of Rupert, Bella’s smile widened. “Please, thank him for me. He’s too kind.”

Turning to Sylvia and Christine, her gaze subtly scanned their bags. After a few seconds, she rolled her eyes. “Follow me.”