A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust by Sally Garcia

Horatio had his doubts, but when he thought about it, Calliope had always been the kind to just quietly take whatever came her way from the family, without complaining. She really did care about them, maybe more than she let on.

Sure, she could be a little prickly, and she didn't want to seem too close to them these days. But deep down, Horatio figured, she still wanted that closeness. She was probably still trying to patch things up, in her own way.

Now that they'd all realized how unfair they'd been before, it was time to treat her better. If Callie wasn't ready to reach out, well, maybe it was up to them to make the first move.

"Dad, Valerian, we really ought to do better," Horatio said. "Let's be kinder to Callie from now on. She deserves it. We need to look after her more."

"And about Lisette... Maybe we should ease up a bit. I think we've spoiled her too much, that's probably why she's made so many mistakes. We can't keep coddling her."

After their little family meeting, they all quietly resolved to treat Calliope with more warmth. As for Lisette, well, maybe it was time to let her feel a bit of cold shoulder, so she'd start learning from her mistakes.

Lisette, meanwhile, had caught bits and pieces of their conversation. She didn't hear much, just Valerian mentioning that Calliope had given him a present.

it sure made

remembered how, back in the day, she'd given Valerian little handmade gifts, like knitted scarves or quirky keychains, and he'd absolutely loved them. He was never one for fancy, expensive stuff. For Valerian, it was all about the thought

something, pretend she'd made it herself,

others. Lisette had always given them gifts that showed she cared, not

in time, she was sure the family would love them. And when they

what really mattered to them.

help but feel a little smug. Calliope could never really compete with her, not when it came to the

...

everyone was gathered at the table for breakfast. No one dared speak

making sure Calliope's plate was full, even

breakfast not to your liking?" he asked her gently. "You're not a

"It's