A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust by Sally Garcia

Lisette had heard every word Calliope said, but she still bolted straight up to the top floor in a huff.

Once she got there, she started to wait. She was sure the Jewell family would come after her, just like they always did. They'd try to talk her down, shower her with affection, and, in the end, promise her anything just to make her feel better.

She was convinced Calliope must be scared she'd actually do something drastic. If she did, wouldn't that make it Calliope's fault too?

So there Lisette stood, right on the rooftop terrace. She hadn't bothered to put on much that morning, and now the chilly breeze up there made her shiver so hard her teeth almost chattered.

But she told herself, if she wanted to get the upper hand with the Jewells, she couldn't back down now. The more pitiful she looked, the more they'd worry, and the more likely they'd cave to whatever she wanted.

So Lisette stayed put. She didn't jump, but she stubbornly remained on the terrace, keeping up her act.

Meanwhile, downstairs.

Monty and the others hesitated.

if she actually jumps? Maybe Valerian should go check on her," Monty suggested, glancing at Silas and Calliope for approval. He clearly wasn't

Calliope replied bluntly, fixing Monty with a look. "You feeling

"Maybe you should go up there and jump with her, give

his mouth

worried, but remembering the rumors about Lisette's infectious illness, she quickly

drama. They weren't stupid. Calliope had already called her bluff. If Lisette was really going to jump, she'd have done it by now. She'd had plenty

was eagerly anticipating his favorite present. Both decided it was smarter to side with Calliope.

starving," Calliope announced, standing up.

jumping at the chance. "I already asked Valerian to pick up your favorite pastries.

to the table, pointedly ignoring the

breakfast, chatting about anything but Lisette. No one seemed to

jump, they'd

she