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

by the alcohol, joining in their games with an easygoing charm that kept everyone in high

the tab. Some of the group protested, insisting she shouldn't

way as she

couldn't take it anymore. He stood

up. We need to

mixed feelings about her, she was still his

coolly. "I've got nothing to say to

something to

"You

but Norton lingered, hands in his pockets, casting a

catch up with you after I talk to him," Calliope said, nodding at

and third brothers should be coming in a few days, right? I'd like to have