A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging From Dust Novel

Chapter 40 Valerian had never seen Calliope like this before .

In his eyes , Calliope was always a bit of a mess , someone who couldnt hold down a decent job or fit in anywhere .

But here she was , laughing and chatting like she belonged , effortlessly blending into Nortons circle of friends .

Valerian took another sip of his beer , trying to ignore the nagging feeling in his gut .

Lisette noticed his attention was fixed on Calliope and felt a twinge of unease herself .

Hey , Valerian , try the grilled cheese , she nudged , hoping to divert his focus .

He took a bite , but the laughter from across the room drew his gaze back to Calliope .

A buddy elbowed him playfully .

Didnt you say your sister was a wallflower ? She seems like a riot ! And she can hold her drink , too .

Shes been here five minutes and already shes part of the gang .

Valerian frowned , his mood souring .

He watched as Calliope mingled , eating and drinking without a care in the world .

She seemed unaffected by the alcohol , joining in their games with an easygoing charm that kept everyone in high spirits .

As the evening wound down , Calliope offered to pick up the tab .

Some of the group protested , insisting she shouldnt pay , but she waved them off with a smile and said theyd cover it next time .

After settling the bill , Calliope didnt even glance Valerians way as she left , still chatting and laughing with Nortons friends .

Valerian couldnt take it anymore .

He stood abruptly and strode over to her .

Wait up .

We need to talk .

Despite his mixed feelings about her , she was still his sister , and he couldnt just ignore her .

Calliope glanced at him coolly .

Ive got nothing to say to you .

But Ive got something to say to you .

Valerian persisted .

Calliope sighed and waved off her friends .

You guys go on ahead .

Ill catch up later .

They didnt argue , but Norton lingered , hands in his pockets , casting a sidelong glance at Valerian .

Hey , bro , you head back .

Ill catch up with you after I talk to him , Calliope said , nodding at Norton .

Oh , by the way , our eldest and third brothers should be coming in a few days , right ? Id like to have dinner with them .

Sure thing .

Norton nodded .

Call me if you need anything .

Ill be around .

Got it .

Once Norton left , Valerian pulled Calliope aside .

How much did you just drop on that bill? With all those drinks and everything , it costs thousands of dollars , right ? Where are you getting that kind of money ? Calliope , youre not using Silass money , are you ? Dont forget who Silas is .

Even if hes playing along with your charade , you shouldnt be wasting his money .

You dont want to get on his bad side .

Valerians eyes narrowed , scrutinizing her .

And what about the drinking? What are you thinking ? Whats it to you ? Calliope laughed lightly .

Did I spend your money ? Drink your beer ? Seems like I didnt take a dime from you , did I ? 1/1