Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Sylvia could practically feel the weight lift off her shoulders as she realized those two extra pairs of watchful eyes were finally gone. She let out a breath she didn't know she'd been holding and felt herself relax for the first time all day.

The jewelry exhibition was being held at the old Heritage Hall on the edge of town, a place that had been around for over a century and looked like it hadn't changed much in all that time. The organizers had gone out of their way to preserve the building's vintage charm-no red carpets rolled out, not even for the press conference, which was just a crowd of people huddled together in the open- air courtyard.

Everyone was shivering from the cold, trying to maintain those picture-perfect smiles. Eloise joked that it was all in the name of art, but nobody knew just how many heated pads were hidden under those glamorous dresses.

After the press event wrapped up, everyone piled gratefully into the warm main hall.

This year's theme was "Culture and Nature."

Right from the entrance, there were clever little displays everywhere. Alongside the traditional showcases of luxury jewels, there were all kinds of creative installations: gemstone leaves and blooming flowers, a fireworks necklace made from massive blue and white diamonds that sparkled under the lights, and delicate butterflies crafted from jewels, suspended by fishing line so they seemed to float in mid-air.

Sylvia was admiring a display when Eloise's voice snapped her back to reality.

"Sylvia, Bridget-come meet Mr. Lennon, the host of the exhibition," Eloise said, gesturing to the distinguished man in front of them. "He knows pretty much every big name in jewelry design, here and abroad."

Before Sylvia could say a word, Bridget smoothly stepped forward, blocking her with one shoulder and extending her hand.

"Hello, Mr. Lennon. I've heard so much about you-I'm Bridget," she said, making sure to emphasize her own name.

Mr. Lennon caught on instantly and smiled. "Ah, Mr. Rupert's fiancée? It's really me who should be honored to meet you."

He gave her hand a brief shake and then let go, not adding a single unnecessary word.

Bridget's smile faltered just a hint.

Seizing the moment, Sylvia stepped up with a polite smile. “Nice to meet you, Mr. Lennon. Ms. Eloise always speaks so highly of your taste, and seeing your exhibition today has been absolutely inspiring. Sorry if I seemed a bit distracted earlier I got caught up in your displays."

Mr. Lennon's eyes lit up, clearly pleased. "And you are? I don't believe we've met."

"Sylvia. I just started with Ms. Eloise's studio."

If she had a choice, Sylvia would rather be remembered for her own name than as someone's somebody.

"Sylvia... Well, I've got some VIPs arriving soon. Why don't you come along and join us?"

"I'd be honored," Sylvia replied, inclining her head graciously.

Mr. Lennon gave her a quick once-over, eyebrows rising. "And this dress...?"

Eloise smoothly cut in, "Mr. Lennon, I think your assistant is looking for you."

"Ah, duty calls. See you all in a bit," Mr. Lennon said as he left, throwing one last compliment Sylvia's way. "That dress looks tailor-made for you."

Sylvia blinked in confusion. Tailor-made? What was that about? Still, she

managed a quick, "Thank you," and forced a smile.

Before Sylvia could ask Eloise about it, Eloise was already off, mingling with friends.

Left alone, Sylvia turned and found Bridget glaring at her in a way that sent a chill down her spine.

She had no interest in getting into it with Bridget here, so she excused herself and headed for the restroom.

She washed her hands, then leaned in to touch up her makeup. As she looked up, Bridget's reflection suddenly appeared behind her, making Sylvia jump a little.

Steadying herself, Sylvia ignored her and fixed her lipstick.noveldrama

Just as she was about to leave, Bridget slammed an arm across the doorway, blocking her exit.

"Knew it," Bridget spat, her voice low and venomous. "Takes a real cheap piece of work to cozy up to every man in the room."

At this point, Bridget didn't even bother to fake being polite.

Sylvia didn't flinch. She just gestured to the mirror. "Might want to keep up appearances, Ms. Simpson. Wouldn't want anyone catching you breaking character."

The calmer Sylvia acted, the more it

seemed to infuriate Bridget. After e

last night, being treated like a criminal under Orson's watchful eye, Bridget was ready to snap.

Sylvia turned to leave, but before she could, Bridget seemed to completely lose it. Out of nowhere, she pulled a small eyebrow razor from her clutch and lunged at Sylvia.