A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust by Sally Garcia

"Yeah, now that Kermit's gone, it's only right we look out for Callie!"

"She's like a daughter to us."

"Honestly, she is family!"

Everyone chimed in, crowding around Calliope and Silas, making it clear they'd stand up for her no matter what.

They weren't just making conversation-they wanted Silas to know he'd better treat Callie right.

Sure, her grandpa wasn't around anymore, but the whole town had her back like a second family. If Silas ever hurt her, he'd have the entire neighborhood to answer to.

Calliope felt a little choked up by their warmth.

Silas, too, looked around and nodded approvingly. He knew Calliope had always gotten the short end of the stick with the Jewell family—ignored, picked on, never really seen. But here, among these neighbors, she was loved, protected, and cherished. You could tell everyone genuinely wanted the best for her.

After a bit of chatting, Neil stepped up to organize dinner. The town had a community hall, and as soon as folks heard Calliope and Silas were back, they'd all gathered there, tossing together a potluck banquet.

As they walked, Neil kept Calliope updated on all the latest changes in town.

"Honestly, Callie, we owe so much to you and your granddad. Without your help back in the day, the town wouldn't have come this far."

"Oh, we didn't do that much. You've been a great mayor!

you two was the real blessing

the way to

was impressive, full of life and warmth. She couldn't help but notice how much the town had grown, and she knew deep down, she and Kermit had played a

she'd quietly helped launch a few projects,

they sat down, people came by to greet Calliope, and

his city-slicker air, shook hands and smiled with real warmth. No snobbishness,

The locals warmed

laughter echoing through

Neil sat together, talking about the

interest and even

their fried chicken, mashed

burst through the door, blood on his

"Neil!"

room went dead

happened?"

just got back, let's eat. Can't

eyes darted