A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust by Sally Garcia

Gideon couldn't afford to lose his place as heir to the Baker Group. As long as he had Calliope on his side, Silas would be sure to let Gideon continue. After all, Gideon was truly talented and incredibly smart.

Calliope had no idea she'd been manipulated by Yvette. Since her split with Fleur, she'd been knee-deep in company matters.

Monty and Horatio would drop by Calliope's office now and then. Toward the end of the workday, Valerian made an appearance at the company.

He brought a small cake for Calliope, along with some other treats, displaying a doting demeanor.

Seeing him smile at her reminded Calliope of her childhood, the time when she had just returned home.

She always remembered that first year back; they were all so kind to her. Even though Zelda harbored some resentment, her brothers were always good to her.

Perhaps it was because she was the only girl. They competed to shower her with affection. Whatever she wanted, they raced to provide it. Each of them seemed eager to give her the very best, though that only lasted for a year.

When Lisette came along, everyone's focus shifted to her. They treated Lisette even better; they believed she needed more love. Lisette was a natural actress, and every performance of hers seemed to convince them completely.

on my way here. Didn't you always love cakes from this place? I

cake in front of Calliope. His attempt to please

to help Lisette as

at the cake with mild interest, and then looked up at Valerian.

strawberry?" Valerian

Lisette's favorite," Calliope

her own favorites. Since Lisette loved strawberry cake, it became Calliope's supposed

after Valerian slapped her over a single strawberry,

this. He couldn't understand her

with his eyes. Monty

cake?" Valerian inquired as he chuckled awkwardly. "It's just cake after all it's all the same. If you want something else, just

time. For now, just

do with this one."

a slight smile. "You used to say