A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust by Sally Garcia

"I wonder if Callie even likes them," Valerian muttered under his breath. He just picked up the box of cupcakes and walked away.

Lisette's face turned a shade of green that would make a cucumber jealous.

She couldn't believe it. She'd basically spelled it out for him, and he just waltzed off with the cupcakes like he hadn't understood a word she'd said.

She took a deep, steadying breath.

Clearly, waiting around wasn't going to cut it. If she wanted them to notice her, she'd have to take matters into her own hands. She needed to make sure they knew she was giving them thoughtful, meaningful gifts. It was the only way they'd realize how much she cared. And if they didn't believe she loved them, there was no way they'd ever be good to her.

She'd been fighting for their affection her whole life. Pushing Calliope out of the picture? That was practically second nature by now.

Lisette narrowed her eyes, a plan already forming. She headed back to her office, rolled up her sleeves, and got to work.

When Calliope came back to her desk later, she found Valerian standing there awkwardly, balancing a box of red velvet cupcakes.

on my way back," he said, offering her the

need help with anything? Just let me know if you do. I'm happy

I don't need any help. And you

used to get so excited when I brought you cupcakes as a kid. That's why I thought you'd like

voice was cold. "That little girl

stung by her

couldn't have been clearer: she'd changed.

change, I mean it! I know you still care about us, deep down. And we love

trying to make up for all the crap I did before. Just tell me what you want me

flatly, barely looking up from her computer. "No matter what you do now,

there, awkward

he was more determined than ever to win her over Especially with that rumor about her buying him a new car. He couldn't shake the thought. He just