Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 67

Sylvia gave Bridget a side glance before striding forward few steps.

"Sure, we're classmates, but are we that close? Even if I need to plead, why would I need a rival to do the job?"

"You…" Bridget was taken aback, a hurt expression crossing her face.

One of the judges, aware of Bridget's not-so-ordinary background and also considering Rupert's presence, stood up immediately to scold Sylvia, "Sylvia, you've destroyed your own piece, and here Ms. Simpson is, trying to help you out of a tight spot. And this is how you repay her? Security! Take her away! No piece, no competition. Don't waste everyone's time."

Bridget wiped the corner of her eye, glancing at Sylvia with a smug look. Sylvia, however, remained unusually calm, "Who said I don't have a piece?"

She turned to Bridget and continued, each word deliberate, "Life is full of surprises, which is why I’ve prepared a backup."

Bridget's expression stiffened. The next moment, a staff member Sylvia had paid in advance brought another item onto the stage.

She looked down at Eloise in the audience, nodding slightly, "This is my creation, the Birthday Crown, Starry Moonlight."

At the mention of a Birthday Crown, the audience's first thought was of the small golden crowns worn during birthday celebrations, complete with candle-blowing ceremonies.

Such a preconceived notion made innovation seem challenging. Thus, Bridget couldn't help but let out an imperceptible smirk.

What new twist could a small crown possibly bring?

The next moment, Sylvia lifted the cloth covering the tray. The audience looked on, puzzled.

Bridget chuckled lightly, "Sylvia, are you...mentally all right? Where's your crown? This tray just has some bits and pieces, if you really...couldn't finish in time, well..."

The earrings served as decorative accents, interchangeable in the assembly. Once the crown was assembled, Sylvia placed it upon her head, and then slowly walked forward.

The light above shone down upon her, highlighting her flowing silhouette and her hair against the crown's brilliance.

She was breathtakingly beautiful. The audience was stunned into silence for a couple of moments before anyone could react.

Eloise asked, "Why do you call this a Birthday Crown?"

Sylvia smiled softly, "Because there's someone who wants my company every birthday, wants to be with me for a lifetime, just like the stars with the moon."

Stars and the moon, the romantic notion led most to assume Sylvia was speaking of a man. Even Rupert thought so, his expression darkening instantly.