Chapter 39
Valerian wanted to make his way over to Calliope, but she and Norton were already surrounded by a lively
crowd.
Norton had snagged first place and handed his prize right over to Calliope. Her beautiful face lit up with a smile that radiated pure happiness.
“Thanks, Norton!”
“Hey, since my brother gifted me his prize, it’s my treat!”
Calliope’s voice rang out with a cheerful tone, her eyes sparkling with joy. When she laughed, it was as if she brought color to the world around her. Even in the midst of a crowd, she stood out.
Norton’s friends were all singing Calliope’s praises, and even those who didn’t know her well were caught up in her infectious spirit.
“Today we celebrate my brother’s big win. Everyone, if you’re interested, let’s have late–night snacks at Silver Spoon! Eat as much as you want, it’s all on me!”
“You’re the best, Calliope!”
“Thanks a ton! We won’t hold back then!”
“Let’s hit the road for some free midnight snacks!”
A boisterous group headed off to Silver Spoon.
Valerian had wanted to stop Calliope from running off with such a large crowd, but there were just too many people, and he didn’t want to make a scene.
He stood there, a shadow crossing his face, feeling a bit left out.
“Wait, isn’t that your sister?”
“How come she didn’t even glance your way?”
A few of Valerian’s friends frowned at the situation.
“Is she loaded or what? Silver Spoon’s great but costs an arm and a leg. A small group is one thing, but treating such a big crowd? She’s gonna go broke!”
“Where’s she getting all this cash?”
Valerian’s frown deepened. He was just as curious about where Calliope was getting the money. Their parents weren’t exactly generous with pocket money; everyone had to earn their own. Calliope worked at some fondue place as a waitress – hardly a job that raked in the big bucks.
They had tried talking to her about it, but she’d just brushed them off. She seemed to enjoy working there, despite the meager pay.
Could it have something to do with Silas?
They never quite figured out what was going on between her and Silas.
Valerian doubted that someone like Silas would dole out spending money to Calliope. Why would Silas, with all the women around him, pay any attention to someone like her? Women lined up to be with him; what made Calliope, appearing to be someone useless, special?
“I’m hungry too. Let’s grab something to eat,” suggested one of Valerian’s friends.
“Okay.”
10:20
Chapter 39
They headed out in search of food and, as if by fate, ended up at Silver Spoon. However, since Calliope was treating, the place was packed, and they couldn’t find a table.
They settled for a spot next door, which was close enough to keep an eye on Calliope’s group.
Valerian sat facing toward Calliope’s table, which was buzzing with people and piled high with food.
Norton sat next to her, attentive as ever, passing her food and refilling her drink.
Calliope had had some wine, and she was in high spirits, laughing and chatting without a care in the world. The whole group was bursting into fits of laughter every other minute, clearly having a great time.
