Chapter 572

"Faking an injury, huh? So what exactly do you expect me to pay for?"

Rupert stared Sylvia down, his face cold as ever, but there was a storm brewing behind his eyes. For more chapters visit f͟i͟n͟d͟n͟o͟v͟e͟l͟.net

Sylvia ignored his glare and answered coolly, "How much was your cane? Just send me the bill. I'll cover it. I've got somewhere to be, so I'll head out."

With that, she pushed his arm aside and made to leave.

Rupert didn't stop her, just let out a low grunt.

He gripped a nearby column, his knuckles white. His tall frame hunched over, as if he was in serious pain.

Sylvia shot him a quick glance, her hands twitching as if she wanted to help-but she stopped herself.

She forced herself to turn away, her expression icy.

But she'd barely taken a step when Rupert grabbed her wrist.

He loomed behind her, his breath hot against her ear, each inhale growing tighter.

"Don't go."

Sylvia froze, swallowing hard, and tried to pry his hand off.

The moment she touched his skin, she felt a clammy sweat, his fingers trembling slightly.

Something was off. Sylvia gripped his hand, turned back and asked, “What's wrong with you?"

Rupert didn't answer-just stared at her, silent.

His gaze lingered on her face, the darkness in his eyes fading, replaced by a wild, desperate emotion.

Suddenly, he cupped the back of her neck, pulling her closer, his lips hovering just above hers.

"So, are you worried about me? Or just scared I'll pull a fast one on you?" His voice was low and rumbled right into her ear, each word slow and clear. Snapping back to herself, Sylvia met his eyes.

She thought, maybe it was just her imagination, but Rupert really did look awful.

But after everything they'd been through, she figured she didn't have the right to ask too much.

She tilted her head back, putting some space between them.

"If you don't want to talk, fine. I'll have someone from the staff help you get some rest."

"Have who help me?" Rupert shot her a look.

Sylvia glanced around, only to realize the server who'd been with her earlier was nowhere to be found.

Rupert must've sent them away.

She glared at him, fuming.

Just as she was about to call for someone else, footsteps echoed from the private dining room nearby.

Rupert shifted, murmuring, “I can't let anyone see me like this. Help me to the wine cellar."

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Given Rupert's current status, every little thing he did could affect business deals. The last thing ke needed was for anyone to see him sovulnerable. s

Sylvia glanced at the wine cellar, her mind racing with all sorts of images.

No matter how hard she tried to stay composed, her ears burned red.

Rupert eyed her, his expression unreadable. "What's got you so nervous? What are you thinking?"

"Nothing!" Sylvia shot back, exasperated, steadying him. "Let's go."

Rupert glanced at her burning ears, but said nothing as he let her lead him into the wine cellar.

Inside, the air was thick with the scent of vintage reds, the golden light giving the place an oddly intimate vibe.

Sylvia helped him to the tasting lounge's couch, then retreated to stand by the door.

Rupert sprawled on the sofa, looking both relaxed and exhausted.

He pressed his fingers to his forehead, eyes fixed on her. "Why are you standing ever there? I'm hardly in any shape to eat Xou alive"

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Sylvia stayed put, wanting nothing more than to keep her distance.

Seeing she wouldn't even talk to him, Rupert's expression darkened. He struggled to pour himself a glass of water, but his hand shook so badly the cup glattered loudly to the table. s

Sylvia rushed over on instinct, quietly pouring him some tea instead.