Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 76

Sylvia had barely stepped into her dorm when she was greeted by her roommates, already off work, with a cake and flowers in hand.

"Congratulations! Welcome back!"

"Thank you." Sylvia was touched as she accepted the flowers from her roommates.

"Sylvia, I listened to your online lecture about jewelry, and I don't know why, but it almost made me cry."

"And the way you shut Bridget down was absolutely epic."

"About the online stuff, don't worry. We've posted all your past achievements. Most people aren't fools. They know what being top of your field means, and it's not just hot air! Bridget accidentally liking it must be kicking herself now."

Hearing this, Sylvia was surprised and quickly checked her phone.

The comments online were buzzing, with many people starting to see the truth.

[This is the school's verified grades. It's not like Sylvia could've charmed all the professors, including the female ones.]

[Accidental like? I think some people's brains are too slick for their own good, lacking even a single wrinkle to make such a mistake, only die-hard fans would defend such.]

[You're just jealous because Bridget is beautiful and kind-hearted, and has a fiancé like Rupert to protect her.]

[They said it was an accident. If it was on purpose, why would Bridget apologize?]

After reading, Sylvia looked up at her roommates, speechless but grateful.

"Thank you all."

"Enough with the thanks, let's cut the cake. Some people are dying to dig in."

"Thank you, Professor."

Professor White always had Sylvia's best interests at heart. In her past life, giving up on the competition had disappointed Professor White the most. Hearing that she'd given up her studies to get married had prompted Professor White to call her five times a day trying to convince her otherwise.

But back then, Sylvia was too deep in the quagmire to escape.

...

The next evening, Sylvia donned a sleek silver-blue gown, her hair cascading down her shoulders. The dress, though a tad snug - as if it had shrunk after washing - didn't concern her too much as she headed to the restaurant, mindful of the time.

Approaching the private dining room, Bridget's voice could already be heard from outside.

"Rupert said he was passing by and decided to drop in. I'm almost embarrassed."