Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Sylvia took a couple of wary steps back as the man approached.

It was Warren Garcia.

It had been a while since she'd seen him-he looked thinner, almost worn down.

Naomi had told her he'd been forced out of his position at Garcia Enterprises. Even his father's shares had been snatched back by Tristan. Now, all Warren could do was tag along with Fiona Carmen to the old Carmen Group—although, technically, the Carmen Group had been acquired by Rupert now.

At best, Warren was just another shareholder.noveldrama

Sylvia still didn't quite get it—why did Tristan have to be so ruthless with him?

Catching herself, she gave a polite nod. "Hey, Warren."

Warren mustered a weak smile. "Still mad at me?"

Sylvia said nothing.

How could she not be angry?

She'd trusted him for two lifetimes, only to find out he'd been lying to her the whole time.

Warren met her gaze and sighed. "I'm here to apologize. Would you have dinner with me? This might be the last chance I get."

Sylvia looked up at him, suspicious. "You..."

"My mom's not doing well. Things have gotten worse since all this happened. I'm taking her overseas for treatment. After that... well, I doubt we'll come back."

"When are you leaving?"

"Christmas." Warren's mouth twisted in a bitter smile.

Fate was at work again.

Sylvia had hoped to change the fate of this mother and son, but in the end, it seemed nothing had changed.

She let out a quiet sigh. "Alright. Let's eat."

She had her own questions anyway.

In her previous life, none of this had happened—so why had Warren and Fiona still ended up leaving the country? Why hadn't Warren been able to bring Fiona home, even after she died?

From what she'd seen, Rupert had never really cared enough about Warren to go after him-he'd always just looked the other way.

Maybe there was something she still didn't know.

They arrived at the cozy Italian atth restaurant Warren had reserved. He'd even ordered all her

favorites pasta with creamy sauce, Caesar salad, a plate of garlic bread. For a moment, it felt like old times. He smiled and served her food, just like he used to, as if nothing had changed. For a second, he was the big brother she'd always respected.

After things had relaxed a bit, Warren poured them both some Earl Grey tea and signaled the waiter to bring out her favorite dessert-warm apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

"I always wanted to bring you here to try this place," he said, "Might be my last chance."

Sylvia eyed the dessert and shook her head. "No, thanks. I'm full.”

Warren gave a soft chuckle. "You're on guard, huh? Afraid I'll spike your food? You only ate what I ate."

"I just want a peaceful life," Sylvia said firmly.

"And you deserve it. I really am sorry. Let's toast, and I'll drive you home."

He didn't push. Warren lifted his tea in a gentle salute. Once she saw him drink first, Sylvia took a sip herself. The teapot was glass, so she knew no tricks could be played.

Suddenly, there was a commotion at the front of the restaurant.

Sylvia set down her cup and looked over. Of all the people she didn't want to see, he was the last.

The restaurant manager was leading the way. Rupert and Bailey followed behind, deep in conversation, Bailey laughing behind her hand at something Rupert said.

Sylvia had heard the rumors

before-Bailey had always had a soft spot for Rupert. Bailey was a few years older, but Sylvia had seen her

in action: sharp, loyal, and generous. She admired women like that.

Warren noticed her gaze and turned to look as well.

He leaned in and asked quietly, "Want to go say hi?"

Sylvia shook her head and sipped her tea. "No, thanks."

Warren's tone softened. "Uncle Rupert's playing a different game. The whole Garcia legacy rests on his shoulders. He's the face of the Garcias now-always meant for the top. Any woman standing besi him would have to be his equal, in every way."

"Yeah." Sylvia agreed, her face unreadable.

He swirled his tea, watching her. "Sylvia, you know better than anyone. Actually,

there's something I wanted to hear straight from you."