A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust by Sally Garcia

"We're her real family! How could she possibly treat someone else like her big brother?"

Valerian echoed Lisette's words, sounding genuinely annoyed.

Lisette gave a small, smug grin. She knew Valerian was completely on her side

now.

As for Calliope, well, she wasn't getting any of their affection.

Ulysses felt conflicted. He'd missed Lisette, honestly, but seeing her now, he couldn't muster much enthusiasm. His thoughts kept drifting to Calliope, who'd left with those other brothers.

It felt like he didn't have a real sister anymore. She definitely didn't think of him as a brother.

At dinner that evening, the whole Jewell family gathered around the table. The spread was classic: roast chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, and a big salad.

we invite Callie over for dinner?" Monty Jewell suddenly asked, forking a

him, unsure. Calliope hadn't been home since she'd moved out. The only time she showed up was when Horatio needed her to do his

do you really think she'll show up?" Zelda snapped, barely hiding her irritation. She honestly didn't want to see Calliope at all.

stop thinking

anymore. Especially

whatever reason, it seemed like Calliope had chosen

should at least invite her," Horatio said quietly. "It's the right thing to do. Whether she comes or

Valerian nodded. "He's right."

"If we just call, it feels insincere. e Valerian, Ulysses, why don't you

the company now. There's no

silent, feeling more and more doubtful that Calliope would

to see her, to ask her straight up if she'd really given up on her brothers. Did she only care

kids. What changed? The thought left a bitter taste in his

...