A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust by Sally Garcia

"One day, they'll discover the truth behind it all. Whether they regret it or not doesn't really matter. Callie can live a fantastic life. She's wasted enough of her time on them already. There's no need for her to waste anymore."

Calliope nodded. "Yeah, exactly."

She used to be so reserved. Initially, she only wanted to see if they truly cared for her, but slowly, she realized they were drifting further and further away. She lost interest in sharing everything she had with them.

"Here, eat." Silas had somehow picked up a buffalo wing and held it to her lips.

Calliope took a bite, savoring the spicy kick. She glanced at Silas, her eyes crinkling into a smile.

Silas was caught in her gaze, his ears turning a shade of red.

Portia gave Archie a nudge and raised an eyebrow at the scene.

Archie frowned, sizing up the situation, then took several swigs of his beer.

kept munching on buffalo wings, laughing and chatting away, downing

a bit to drink, too. Despite the comfort her friends offered, the disappointment of her own parents-those hopes she harbored-shattered, leaving her quietly aching inside. It was hard not to hope, and even harder not

system, she clung a little closer to Silas on the way

don't they

me into this world. Did

don't take responsibility. They only care about their adopted daughter. Why do they treat me this way? Wouldn't it

horrible. I'm not a curse. I'm

help them sort out their messes,

her hair. "It's not your fault. It's their problem. You

out without you, so don't be

not a

always love you. Even

world turns its back

Wever will. Not now,