Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Rupert's breath lingered in the air as his words hung between them, warming Sylvia's cheeks.

Feeling a bit flustered, she turned her head away.

He knew everything, of course he did.

Sylvia cautiously shifted a step to the side, hoping to escape his breath, but as soon as she did, an arm appeared in front of her.

She had no choice but to stand still. The elevator would reach her floor soon, anyway.

But Rupert seemed to sense her thoughts, leaning in closer, his warm breath cascading over her face.

She could feel it, hot and insistent, just below her nose.

Her breathing quickened, her body responding to the heat of his proximity, a fine sheen of sweat forming on her back.

Lost in thought for a moment, she felt his hand gently brushing aside the strands of her hair, cradling her face.

"Hmm?" Rupert's voice was low, questioning.

"I... I..."

Sylvia stumbled over her words, unsure what to say.

"You said I'd slipped the room key, didn't you think something would happen?"

Sylvia's eyes widened in shock. He even knew about the room key!

His voice was calm, yet she felt an intense pressure, her breath coming in short gasps.

Rupert's eyes were half-closed, a teasing light in them as he murmured, "Feeling flustered?"

"No..."

Sylvia started to deny it, but he tilted his head, leaning in, their lips barely touching.

Ding. The elevator arrived at their floor.

Sylvia thought she was saved and tried to push him away.

Instead, he raised an eyebrow, effortlessly lifting her, turning, and closing the elevator doors.

"You!"

Sylvia realized she was no match for Rupert's intentions, like a lamb before a lion.

She glanced down at her legs wrapped around his waist, embarrassed and frustrated, as she playfully hit his shoulder.

He didn't even flinch, his gaze only growing more intense.

Amid the playful struggle, the

reached the rooftop, andet

22 m n breeze greeted them

them

as the doors opened.

Though not the season for blooms, the wind carried the scent of flowers. Sylvia shivered slightly, catching sight of the rooftop garden's vibrant blossoms. She paused, slightly dazed, as Rupert set her down and led her into the garden. The sunken seating area made it feel like they were nestled in a sea of flowers. "Have a seat; downstairs felt like some sort of scam convention."

"Yeah."

Sylvia wanted to laugh, but she tried to keep a straight face, settling down.

She needed some time to let things unfold naturally.

Soon enough, a waiter arrived with a small fondue set and a selection of Western pastries.

As the coffee brewed, Rupert poured Sylvia a cup.

"Have some coffee to clear your head. There's no rush for anything else."

"Uncle Rupert, how did you know I had a drink?" Sylvia asked, surprised. Rupert paused, giving her a meaningful look over his cup.

"I could taste it."

At that, Sylvia's cheeks burned bright red, even outside she felt hot enough to shed her coat.

She quickly gulped down a mouthful of coffee, only to wince.

"Hot, hot..."

Covering her mouth, she watched as Rupert moved closer, holding her chin with a sigh.

"Open up."

"No need." Sylvia shook her head, her lips sealed.

Rupert didn't give her a chance to resist, gently pressing her chin until

her

s parted slightly

s to

She looked up, finding him close, their eyes locking.

The wind around them seemed to still,

deng falling silent, h

sweet

deep and unfathomable.

belongs to Co

Her fingers twitched, and instinctively, she licked her lips.

Seeing this, Rupert's gaze darkened, his eyes intense as he slowly leaned in toward her.noveldrama