Chapter 23
It was Silas’s idea, really. What was supposed to be the wedding ceremony for Calliope and Gideon had transformed into a wedding for Calliope and him.
Knowing the family would be buzzing with questions, Silas suggested to Eamon that they host a family dinner and set the record straight.
Eamon, who had always indulged Silas, his adopted son, and he was also quite fond of Calliope. Seeing the logic in Silas’s proposal, he wasted no time in arranging the gathering.
Silas had some last–minute business to handle, so Calliope arrived at the Baker family estate with Damien.
“Damien, you don’t have to stick to me like glue,” she said, casting him a glance.
“Mr. Myers insisted that I stay close and protect you, even here,” Damien replied, unwavering in his duty.
Knowing it was futile to argue, Calliope let him tag along.
Since it was her first formal appearance as Silas’s wife, Mavis and Portia had helped her pick out a striking outfit to make a memorable entrance at the gathering.
When she stepped in, every branch of the Baker family had already shown up, eager to witness the spectacle firsthand. The room was buzzed with scattered conversations, with those on good terms sitting together, and those less friendly keeping their distance.
Eamon sat comfortably in his armchair, listening to the chatter around him.
The moment Calliope appeared at the doorway, all eyes turned toward her.
“Long time no see.” Her lips curved into a small, mischievous smile, her eyes sparkling with captivating charm.
Everyone in the Baker family knew about her past infatuation with Gideon, and her frequent appearances at their family dinners made her no stranger to them.
Naturally, the whispers grew louder as she entered, with everyone gossiping about the tangled web involving Calliope, Gideon, and Silas.
“Well, if it isn’t Calliope! It’s been a while, hasn’t it? You’re looking even more stunning!”
The first to speak was Verity, from the third son’s family. Gideon’s father was the second son, and there had always been tension between the second and third branches of the family, leading to constant rivalry.
Calliope had never been fond of Verity, largely because of her connection to Gideon. But now, she found Verity less disagreeable.
In the past, Verity had warned her that Gideon and his family were trouble, advising her to let go of him. At the time, Calliope hadn’t believed her.
Looking back now, Calliope realized Verity’s warnings had been sincere, not just an attempt to stir the pot. “See, a woman really does glow when she marries the right man!” Verity grinned. “Fleur, aren’t you pleased now? You never thought much of Calliope, and now she’s not marrying your precious Gideon.
She’s marrying Silas instead. They make a good match. If you ask me, it’s not Calliope who wasn’t good enough for Gideon, but Gideon who wasn’t good enough for Calliope!”
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