A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust by Sally Garcia

After Hudson and Lance came back, they moved into a villa that Calliope had arranged to be cleaned up for them.

On Sunday, Calliope dropped by their place with her arms full of groceries and medicine.

The two guys were out in the backyard, soaking up the sun. But after just a few days, Hudson already looked noticeably thinner. His skin was pale, and he just didn't look like himself anymore. Calliope had never seen Hudson like this before. It was one thing to hear about him being sick, but actually seeing him like this made it painfully real. He was seriously sick.

But maybe having Lance around helped, because Hudson still seemed to be in good spirits.

"Hudson, I'm here!" Calliope called out, juggling her bags as she headed over, forcing a cheerful smile onto her face. She knew how important it was for cancer patients to stay positive. The last thing she wanted was for Hudson to get anxious. If she could act like everything was under control, maybe he'd feel better too, and maybe Lance wouldn't lose it completely, either. He was already on edge, worrying about Hudson every minute.

"Hey, you made it!" Hudson grinned at her. "What's all that? You didn't bring any weird herbal stuff, did you? I'm not taking anything that tastes like tree bark!"

Calliope laughed. "Relax, Hudson. You know I wouldn't let you suffer. I brought you some real food, not some mystery potion! I'm here to whip up a special meal that's actually good for you, and it'll taste amazing!"

me out in the kitchen today. He has no idea what he's in for!"

don't you just tell me what to do and I'll handle

turn to get pampered for a change. Besides, Lance needs to learn how

smiled, a little wistful. "Yeah, I guess you're right. After I'm gone, someone's got to make

hung in the air, heavy and

filled with

could you

lighten the mood. "Besides, Lance is a total heartthrob. He'll have people lining

at Lance, trying to make him laugh. It worked,

still tears threatening

of that. Let's get cooking!" Calliope announced, clapping her hands. "I brought a free-range chicken. Tonight,

stay outside and enjoy the sun for a bit longer, then