Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 149

After hearing the exchange, Bailey's laughter grew even louder.

Christine was about to stand up when Sylvia reached out to stop her, signaling her not to rush into speaking.

But Christine dodged her hand, stood up, and said defiantly, "I also think camellia suit you better. This place is called Camellia Manor, which clearly reflects your love and appreciation for it."

Bailey, twirling her ring and with an inscrutable smile, didn't give anything away.

Then Freya rose to her feet.

In a tone of feigned modesty, she said, "Bailey, while I might not be as insightful as them, I believe Paparacha suits you best. For someone as powerful and confident as you, only something that shines even brighter could truly match your brilliance."

Bailey turned to Freya, resting her chin on her hand with a raised eyebrow. "You're quite interesting, with quite the perspective."

"Just stating the truth," Freya replied, lowering her head slightly. Her voice carried a mix of pride and caution.

While everyone else praised the camellia ring, she had chosen to stand out by going against the grain - an approach that certainly caught attention.

Suddenly, Bailey's gaze shifted to Sylvia, who had remained silent.

"Everyone has shared their thoughts. What about you?"

Sylvia spoke softly, "May I take a closer look?"

Before Bailey could respond, Bridget interjected with a puzzled tone.

"Sylvia, aren't you touted as the top scholar at college? How can you not understand this with a quick glance?"

Her words carried an unmistakable undertone, aimed at suggesting to Bailey that Sylvia was just a pretender.

Sylvia smiled. "I was asking Bailey."

Caught off guard, Bridget shot her a glare.

Generously, Bailey gestured. "Take a look."

"So, Eloise suddenly sends an intern, turns out she had someone up her sleeve. But... it seems she's not the only one."

Bailey's glance briefly flitted to Rupert, who was calmly sipping his coffee.

Rupert, unfazed, set down his coffee, the ruby ring on his finger gleaming faintly in the rising steam, adding a quiet air of mystery.

He spoke coolly, "Let's talk business."

Without further ado, Bailey stood and gestured. "Let's step aside for a chat."

Rupert followed her to a quieter spot.

Meanwhile, Bridget, feeling slighted, shot Freya a look.

Freya, taking the hint, hooked her arm through Sylvia's. "Sylvia, I need to go to the restroom. Would you mind coming with me?"

Sylvia glanced at her. "Sure."