Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Reese didn't notice anything off about Sylvia. She just pulled out her phone, grinning. "Look, we've taken so many pictures! I'm thinking of using some for the engagement dinner and the wedding. Can you help me pick a few?"

Sylvia glanced at Reese's screen. The smiles in the photos were almost blinding.

Reese was the kind of girl who'd grown up wrapped in love, a real-life princess with a confidence that came from deep inside. Her laughter was infectious-so much so that even Rupert, standing next to her, looked more relaxed than usual.

They looked perfect together. Every picture was flawless.

Sylvia, on the other hand, felt awkward. She didn't know where to look.

"They're all great. Honestly, you two should decide," she replied with a polite smile, eager to change the subject. "So, what did you want to talk to me about?"

"Oh!" Reese exclaimed, as if she'd forgotten.

"I got so excited I nearly forgot the real reason I called you. The tie pin you designed for my brother? He loves it-wears it all the time, won't even take it off. So, I was hoping you could design something for me, too."

"What kind of jewelry?" Sylvia kept her smile up, but she already had a good guess.noveldrama

Probably something for the engagement party-a necklace, a bracelet, maybe earrings. Even a tiara for the bridal veil wouldn't be too much of a challenge for her.

Reese blushed a little and rested her chin on her hand. "A ring."

Sylvia froze mid-sip of her tea.

"Rupert took me to pick out a ring, but honestly, the ones we saw were just expensive, not really me. I want something I can wear every day, something simple but meaningful, you know? Sylvia, could you help me design our rings?"

Sylvia looked down at her cup. Reflected in the tea was Reese's hopeful smile— and her own uncertainty.

"Sylvia? Sylvia? Are you okay?" Reese called, snapping her back to reality.

Sylvia set down her cup and forced a smile. "Sorry, I've never designed wedding rings before. I'm not sure I'm the right person for this. I could introduce you to a colleague though—she's designed rings for a ton of celebrities."

But Reese grabbed her hand. "Actually, Tristan recommended you. And I've seen your designs-they're exactly what I want. Please, Sylvia?"

"Tristan?" The refusal stuck in Sylvia's throat, replaced by surprise.

"Yeah, I guess he wants to keep it in the family," Reese said innocently, with a little laugh.

But to Sylvia, it sounded like a threat.

Typical Tristan, she thought. Always finding a way to put her on the spot.

Thinking of Naomi, Sylvia could only swallow her pride and nod. "Okay, I'll design them for you."

Reese instantly scooted closer,

beaming. "By the way, I wanted to ask-would you be my bridesmaid? I've

Theen living abroad for the past

three, four years,

our years, and five lost touch

with a lot of friends here. But feël like we really click."

She started scrolling through her phone again. "Here, let me show you the dresses I picked out for the bridesmaids."

Before Sylvia could protest, Reese handed her the phone. The screen was filled with stunning designer dresses elegant expensive, the kind you'd see at a Manhattan gala.

"Do you like them? If not, I can have someone send more options."

Reese was so open and honest, not caring at all if her bridesmaids looked amazing too.

Sylvia, on the other hand, felt small—she almost wished Reese would be a little meaner to her.

She gently pulled her hand back and dropped her gaze, hiding her feelings.

"I'm sorry, Reese. I can't be your bridesmaid. You should ask someone else."

Reese looked a little stunned.

But after a second, she managed a small almost pleading smile, That's okay. But would you come help mề pick out my wedding dress, at least?"