The Sway and Slide of Love by Jean Song

Chapter 182 "One day, they'll discover the truth behind it all. Whether they regret it or not doesn't really matter. Callie can live a fantastic life. She's wasted enough of her time on them already. There's no need for her to waste anymore."

Calliope nodded. "Yeah, exactly."

She used to be so reserved. Initially, she only wanted to see if they truly cared for her, but slowly, she realized they were drifting further and further away. She lost interest in sharing everything she had with them.

"Here, eat." Silas had somehow picked up a buffalo wing and held it to her lips.

Calliope took a bite, savoring the spicy kick. She glanced at Silas, her eyes crinkling into a smile.

Silas was caught in her gaze, his ears turning a shade of red.

Portia gave Archie a nudge and raised an eyebrow at the scene.

Archie frowned, sizing up the situation, then took several swigs of his beer.

kept munching on buffalo wings, laughing and chatting

quite a bit to drink, too. Despite the comfort her friends offered, the disappointment of her own parents-those hopes she harbored-shattered, leaving her quietly aching inside. It was hard not to hope,

clung a little closer

don't they like

world. Did I have a

take responsibility. They only care about their adopted daughter. Why do they treat me this way? Wouldn't it have been better if I weren't

never done anything horrible. I'm not a curse. I'm not. I haven't brought them

been trying to help them sort out their

tenderly mussed her hair. "It's not your fault.

out without you, so don't

I do. You're not a curse.

always love you.

world turns its back

Wever will. Not