A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust by Sally Garcia

Chapter 40

Valerian had never seen Calliope like this before.

In his eyes, Calliope was always a bit of a mess, someone who couldn't hold down a decent job or fit in anywhere. But here she was, laughing and chatting like she belonged, effortlessly blending into Norton's circle of friends.

Valerian took another sip of his beer, trying to ignore the nagging feeling in his gut.

Lisette noticed his attention was fixed on Calliope and felt a twinge of unease herself. "Hey, Valerian, try the grilled cheese," she nudged, hoping to divert his focus.

He took a bite, but the laughter from across the room drew his gaze back to Calliope.

A buddy elbowed him playfully. "Didn't you say your sister was a wallflower? She seems like a riot! And she can hold her drink, too. She's been here five minutes and already she's part of the gang."

Valerian frowned, his mood souring. He watched as Calliope mingled, eating and drinking without a care

unaffected by the alcohol, joining in their

insisting she shouldn't pay, but she waved them off with a smile and said they'd

glance Valerian's way as she left, still chatting

take it anymore. He stood abruptly and strode over to

up. We

about her, she was still his sister, and he couldn't just

"I've got nothing to say

to say to you." Valerian

her friends. "You guys go on ahead.

Norton lingered, hands in his pockets, casting a

back. I'll catch up with you

by the way, our eldest and third brothers should be coming in a few days, right? I'd like to have