Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert) novel Chapter 606

Reese heard footsteps approaching and shot a warm smile at the maid.

“We all know each other well by now. No need to make a fuss in the main hall—just bring them to the lounge, please. And could you set out some coffee and snacks? We’ll have a little chat.”

Compared to the grand, formal hall, the side lounge was cozier and far more private.

The maid nodded and left. Reese stopped by the restroom before heading to the lounge herself.

As soon as she entered, Fay Langley sprang up from the couch, clearly annoyed.

“Reese, what took you so long? And why are we in this poky little room instead of the main hall?”

Reese didn’t bother answering. She slid into the armchair at the head of the coffee table, poured herself a cup of herbal tea, and took a leisurely sip.

Setting her cup down, she finally looked over at Fay. “Fay, when are you ever going to learn to chill out a little?”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Fay shot back, frowning in confusion.

Reese didn’t explain, but Kay, sitting nearby, picked up on the shift. Reese had always been gentle and accommodating, usually letting her aunt take the lead. But today, she’d chosen the seat of honor and changed the meeting spot herself. Clearly, she was sending a message—and Kay suspected it had everything to do with today’s family lunch.

After a moment’s thought, Kay tugged Fay down beside her and offered a breezy laugh. “Reese, is there some misunderstanding here?”

Reese didn’t beat around the bush. Her tone sharpened. “Aunt Kay, you were the one who sent Mrs. Naomi over today, weren’t you?”

“Absolutely not. She’s got two feet of her own—she goes wherever she pleases. Why would she listen to me?” Kay replied, nonchalant, poking at the fruit on her plate with a cocktail fork.

“Fay!” Reese cut in sharply. “Rupert and I are getting married soon. Please, don’t spread rumors. Whatever your reasons are, I’m not going to ask anymore.”

If not for that car accident, she and Lester would have inherited the Sanford Group together. Reese might seem naïve, but she wasn’t stupid.

“From now on, stop making life difficult for Sylvia and Mrs. Naomi. Sylvia’s with my brother now. She might be my sister-in-law one day.”

“Sister-in-law? How dare you! You know I’ve liked Mr. Sanford since high school!” Fay burst out, pacing in frustration.

Reese sighed. “Fay, I tried to help you and my brother. But he’s made his feelings clear. You can’t force love.”