Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)
Chapter 150

Sylvia peered at Freya's seemingly innocent smile and knew right away that Freya and Bridget couldn't possibly sit still and watch her shine in front of Bailey.

Better to face them head-on rather than be caught off guard by their sneaky moves.

On their way to the restroom, Freya kept stealing glances at Sylvia.

Finally, she spoke with a hint of accusation, "Sylvia, why didn't you stop me when I was speaking earlier?"

Sylvia had anticipated this confrontation and had her response ready.

With a helpless expression, she took Freya's hand. "Freya, I thought you were just here to deliver a gift. How was I to know you'd try to steal the spotlight? You didn't tell me- how could I have stopped you?"

"I wasn't trying to steal the spotlight. I genuinely liked that ring," Freya hurriedly explained, fearing Sylvia's suspicion.

"Of course, I believe you. It's just... I'm not sure if Bailey would think the same or wonder if you're overstepping." Sylvia sighed deliberately and continued walking. She could feel Freya's resentful gaze boring into her back. Hating her, yet unable to get rid of her, and still having to cling to her- it must be a bitter pill to swallow, right?

But wasn't this the path Freya had chosen in her quest for success?

Only now, her stepping stone was no longer obedient.

As they passed a small garden filled with camellias, Freya stopped abruptly, pulling Sylvia towards the vibrant blooms. She gestured at the garden and remarked, "It seems Bailey really loves camellias. Taking care of so many must be such a hassle. If anything went wrong, there would be hell to pay."

"Indeed."

Sylvia glanced at the garden and nodded.

Freya gave Sylvia a sly look, her eyes glinting with the stirrings of a plan.

"Let's be careful not to ruin the flowers. After all, Bailey's decisions directly impact our studio's collaboration."

"Right."

Both entered the restroom together, but a sneaky figure slipped out shortly after.

...

Elsewhere.

Rupert stood by the lakeside, the shimmering water reflecting on his handsome, deep-set features. His expression was as cold and impassive as ever.

Yet, the aura of authority he exuded

still made Bailey's heart flutter. Her admiration for Rupert was more than just professional; it was

attraction of a woman to and

romance

she thought even a fleeting would be worthwhile.

Unfortunately, the man was uninterested. She had thought he was hopelessly in love with Ms. Simpson.

But turned out...

How intriguing!

"Mr. Rupert, when Ms. Simpson spoke up earlier, why didn't you intervene? Aren't you worried your fiancée might be embarrassed? Or were you waiting for someone else to speak up?" en FindNovel

"We're here for business, not personal matters," Rupert replied coolly.

"Such heartlessness."

Bailey leaned flirtatiously against the railing, offering Rupert a cigarette while gesturing for him to light it for her.

If she couldn't have the man, enjoying some privileges wasn't too bad.

Rupert lit her cigarette before lighting his own.

Bailey got back to business. "Years ago, my family had minor dealings with the Rockfield family overseas, which led to the collaboration. They rarely work with domestic companies, so they asked me to

help pick the right person. You know

What I'm aiming for."

She blew a smoke ring in Rupert's direction.

Rupert narrowed his eyes. "I'll arrange the contract soon. You'll get a satisfactory share, but no information can be leaked before then."

"That's it? Nothing else you want to ask? Like who I might choose to design my jewelry?" Bailey chuckled.

"You're not foolish," Rupert flicked ash off his cigarette, expressionless.

Bailey was momentarily at a loss for words.