Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 156

"I'm so scared, I hate the dark, I can't see...Ah!"

It sounded like she tripped over something, her steps scattering in a panic. From the sound of it, Freya was making a beeline towards Sylvia.

And Rupert was right in front of Sylvia.

Freya sure knew how to seize the moment.

Next thing, there was the sound of a collision – Freya had succeeded in her ploy.

Sylvia was about to sneer when suddenly a shadow loomed before her. Caught off guard, she didn't have time to react before she was enveloped in a familiar scent.

Without defense, Sylvia found herself being kissed, forgetting even to escape. The man's scent was like the cold air on a sunny winter's day, with a brisk warmth enveloping after a slight touch of sunlight.

His kiss was gentle, lacking his usual dominance, as if merely to silence her, his breaths ragged yet restrained.

The wailing on the floor brought Sylvia back to her senses.

Soon, the sound of footsteps echoed from the other end of the hallway, with maids approaching, holding lit scented candles.

As the light drew closer, Sylvia tried to push away the man before her but instead was guided by him into the room with her waist clutched.

Click, the door closed and locked behind them.

Sylvia found herself pinned against the wall, his breaths moist against her skin. As she raised her hand in protest, he simply held it down gently yet firmly.

"Don't you know if I need any energy-boosting smoothies?" Rupert's husky voice was full of allure.

"You..."

Before Sylvia could speak, there was a knock at the door.

"Ms. Lloyd, I've brought you candles."

Rupert watched her, stepping back to stand behind the door, hands in his pockets, unconcerned about being discovered.

Sylvia could only grit her teeth and open the door a crack, taking the tray with scented candles from the maid.

Luckily, Sylvia was quick to close the door.

The tray held six scented candles of varying sizes, their fragrances mingling but not unpleasant. Sylvia even leaned in to take a deep sniff.

Rupert watched from across, his eyes narrowing slightly.

The flickering candlelight made Sylvia's eyes sparkle, her fingertips brushing her hair as she leaned in, her lips slightly parted, innocence personified.

Yet on her face, there was an allure. Especially with her white silk blouse slightly open at the collar, a few strands of hair on her delicate collarbone, exuding a subtle charm.

Rupert's breath hitched, the flames flickering as he approached Sylvia.

But Sylvia, wary, took a step back.

He lowered his gaze, and Sylvia held her breath under his domineering presence.

However, Rupert simply took the tray from her hands and turned to sit down in the room.