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.

Christmas Eve. Should we invite Callie over for dinner?" Monty Jewell suddenly

been home since she'd moved out. The only time she showed up was when Horatio needed her

she'll show up?" Zelda snapped, barely hiding her irritation. She honestly didn't

Ulysses muttered, frowning. He couldn't stop thinking about how close Calliope seemed with those other

look like she needed any of them anymore.

Calliope had chosen

should at least invite her," Horatio said quietly. "It's the right thing to do. Whether she comes or not is her decision.

Valerian nodded. "He's right."

at the office today anyway, right?" Monty added. "If we just call, it feels insincere. e Valerian, Ulysses, why don't you two stop by her office? Talk to

running the company now.

just stayed silent, feeling more and more doubtful that Calliope

to ask her straight up if she'd really given

What changed? The thought left a

...