A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust

"What's going on?" Lisette frowned at Valerian, a knot of anxiety tightening in her chest.

Calliope, who had barely spoken to the family in months, was suddenly back. Not only was she here, but her attitude was... well, let's just say she didn't exactly seem humbled. If anything, Calliope looked like she had the entire Jewell family wrapped around her little finger.

Back in the day, Monty and the rest would barely even look at her, sometimes they'd outright yell at her and tell her to get lost. But now? Now, it was like they were all walking on eggshells around her.

Lisette couldn't shake the feeling that something was very, very off. Had the Jewells really made up with Calliope? If so, after all the things she'd done to Calliope... well, Lisette was screwed if Calliope decided to come home for good.

And what was this about a deal? Had the family given Calliope something? Was it about the company? That was what Lisette wanted most-if Calliope got control, what would she have left?

The uncertainty was driving Lisette crazy.

But she didn't dare ask outright, not when Monty and the others were clearly being so cagey. If she pressed too hard, they'd get suspicious for sure.

Lisette sucked in a shaky breath, reminding herself to stay calm. She'd just have to wait for the right moment-play the doting daughter, maybe shed a few tears. After all, they'd never really trusted Calliope before; it wasn't like they'd suddenly believe everything she said. No, whatever was happening, Calliope must have something on them.

That thought made Lisette feel a little better. She put on her sweetest, most remorseful voice. "Callie, I want to apologize. I'm sorry... I didn't know. I realize now I misunderstood you."

"But, you know, anyone would worry if a girl hangs out with that many strange guys. I was just concerned about you, that's all. You're not really mad at me, are you?"

"I mean, I've already been punished, haven't I? You're not actually going to make me grovel on the floor, are you?"

"If you really want, I'll do it."

Lisette sniffled, her eyes shining with fake tears, as if she were the one being bullied by Calliope, not the other way around.

Monty and the others exchanged glances, clearly moved by Lisette's performance—especially Valerian, who'd been trying to keep the peace between the sisters. Now, a surge of anger rose in him. Sure, Lisette had messed up, but she'd already paid the price. Did Calliope really have to push it further and make her kneel and beg?

He was ready to step in if Calliope insisted on it. But Calliope just glanced at Lisette, expression cool and unreadable, and walked right past her into the house.

Lisette hesitated, but followed, her pride stung.

"Lisette!" Zelda's voice rang out as soon as she saw her daughter. She rushed over, fussing over Lisette and cupping her face in her hands. "Are you alright, honey? Did they hurt you? You look so thin!"

"I'm fine, Mom. I'm sorry I made you worry," Lisette said, putting on her best remorseful face.

"Oh, sweetheart, you have nothing to apologize for! You didn't do anything wrong! Zelda nearly started crying right then and there, clutching Lisette's hand.

Calliope sat stiffly on the living room couch, face unreadable. She'd never had this

kind of motherly affection. sShe doubted she ever would.

Horatio, watching from his wheelchair, seemed to notice something was off. Henoveldrama

wheeled closer to Calliope, stealing a thoughtful glance at her.

Something was brewing in this house, and everyone could feel it.