A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust by Sally Garcia

Chapter 41

"Valerian, seriously, stop acting like you're my life coach. Have you ever put food on my table, or clothes on my back, or even given me a dime for pocket money?"

"I'm your brother! I'm just trying to look out for you!" Valerian retorted, frustration evident in his voice.

"Are you really looking out for me? Or are you just worried I'll embarrass you and the family?"

Calliope's eyes flashed with a cold defiance. "You've never considered me your sister, so quit minding my business."

"What's with the attitude, Calliope?"

Valerian was taken aback by her bluntness, especially in front of his friends. She had been all smiles with Norton earlier, but now she was making a scene.

Calliope glanced at him dismissively before turning on her heel and walking away, leaving Valerian simmering with anger.

His friends, who had been joking around, fell silent, sensing the tension and couldn't bring themself to interfere.

Valerian, you okay?" Lisette asked gently. "Do you think it's safe for her to be alone out there? Maybe you should give

If she gets into trouble, that's

a mind to follow her, but Lisette's words made him reconsider. At least Lisette seemed

Calliope didn't want his help, then fine. She could deal with whatever came

gotten into her lately. Everything had been fine, and now she was acting out. She had turned down marrying Gideon, and her relationship with Silas was

she'd come running back when reality

to her, but she never considered that Lisette was better than her in every way, and she

a few kind words, and Valerian couldn't help but think how much more sensible

...

expected Silas to return after these few days apart, but there was no sign of him -

she had been distant

on her bed, contemplating her next move. Seeking advice,

Portia uttered, "You free tomorrow? Come meet

is it?" Calliope asked,