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 .

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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