Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Sylvia's words struck a chord with Eloise. The two exchanged glances, fully aware of the gravity of the situation.

However, Eloise had her own reservations.

"You've got a point, but without proof, it's meaningless. Losing millions worth of gemstones right under our noses-who'd trust me with designing their jewelry after that?"

"Even if I wanted to back you, the others might not agree. Your signature is on the handover documents, confirming the quality of the sapphires. You get what I'm saying?"

Eloise's eyes bore into Sylvia's with intensity.

Sylvia nodded gravely.

Eloise was preparing her for the worst-case scenario: if they couldn't find evidence, Sylvia might end up being the scapegoat, shouldering all the blame.

Sylvia took a deep breath. "I understand."

Just then, Sylvia's phone buzzed. Glancing at the caller ID, a hint of relief crossed her face. She waved the phone at Eloise.

"Looks like I was right."

Sylvia answered the call, hearing Hilbert's voice on the other end.

"Sylvia, I heard there's trouble with the jewelry. Is that true?"

Sylvia paused, then replied, "Mr. Carmen, can we discuss this privately?"

"Privately? Sure, sure. I'll send you the location. Just come over." Hilbert chuckled.

"Alright."

As soon as they hung up, Hilbert sent over an address.

It was a small, tucked-away diner, quite discreet.

Eloise frowned. "You're going to meet him alone?"

Sylvia held her phone tightly. "Sometimes you have to venture into the lion's den to get the cub."

"Be careful. Call me if anything happens."

"Will do."

Sylvia left the office, ignoring the wary stares from her colleagues. She straightened her jacket, left the studio, and headed out.

At the diner, Sylvia knocked on the private room door at the agreed time.

Hilbert, spotting her, stood up with a sly smile. "Sylvia, you're here. Come on in."

As he reached out to greet her, Sylvia deftly sidestepped, pretending to adjust her

coat.

"Mr. Carmen, nice to see you. Let me cover this meal."

She pulled out a chair and signaled the server to bring the dishes.

Hilbert, seeing he was outmaneuvered, reluctantly sat back down.

"Sylvia, you're in quite a rush. Is there really a problem with the sapphires?"noveldrama

Sylvia stood up, pouring Hilbert a cup of coffee with practiced politeness.

"Mr. Carmen, yes, there's been a bit of an issue. I came to apologize directly."

As she offered the cup, Hilbert blocked it with his hand, his eyes locked onto hers.

"Sylvia, I handed those over to you personally. You even signed for them. I trusted you, and now you're telling me there's a problem, trying to smooth it over with a cup of coffee?"

"I know it's difficult, and I wouldn't be here if I had any other choice. I'm

asking for your understanding ~ 17€

Sylvia's expression was earnest, but troubled.

"Understanding? That's not how you ask for it."

Hilbert suddenly grabbed Sylvia's hand.

Startled, the cup slipped from her grasp, crashing to the floor. Hilbert didn't let go. Instead, he pulled her closer.

"Mr. Carmen, please, let go. I'm here to seriously discuss this matter with you."

Hilbert's smile turned sleazy. "Sylvia, I'm serious too. Let me show you how to ask, and I might just say yes."

As he reached out with his other hand, Sylvia blocked him, preventing further encroachment.

Thankfully Hilbert's bluster was

more show than substance. Years of indulgence had weakened him, and

his grip wasn't as strong as she'd feared.

Sylvia pushed him away, her voice firm with anger. "Mr. Carmen, respect yourself!"