Chapter 849
Calliope chatted warmly with Verity and the others. They made her feel truly welcome, their kindness wrapping around her like a cozy blanket on a chilly autumn day.
The only exception was Gideon’s family. They kept their distance, exchanging only polite nods and the bare minimum of conversation, as if she were a stranger at Thanksgiving dinner.
Fleur Lawson, Gideon’s mother, kept sneaking glances at Calliope. Fleur had seen some things online about her-rumors, stories, little tidbits that painted Calliope in a dazzlingly impressive light.
Right now, Yvette Jansen was pregnant, which everyone made a big deal about. But every time Fleur saw more about Calliope online, she couldn’t help but feel a twinge of regret. The more time Fleur spent with Yvette, the more she realized the girl was petty, suspicious, and honestly, a bit useless.
But Calliope? She had so many connections, so much money-heck, she even owned the fanciest country club in town. The woman was a powerhouse.
If Calliope had become her daughter-in-law, Fleur thought, she would have been an incredible asset to the family. At the very least, she’d have no trouble helping her son out in his career.
But Fleur had let that opportunity slip right through her fingers. Back then, she’d been so dissatisfied with Calliope, so she’d pushed her away—and now, she was stuck with Yvette.
When Fleur compared the two, the difference was night and day. Calliope was in a league of her own, while Yvette couldn’t hold a candle to her.
Of course, now it was far too late for regrets. Calliope was with Silas now, and that was that.
Still, Fleur consoled herself with the thought that her grandchild would be Eamon Baker’s very first great-grandchild. That was something to be proud of.
No matter how much Eamon doted on Silas, or how impressive Calliope might be, they still hadn’t had a child. Maybe Calliope just couldn’t have kids! The thought made Fleur feel a little better, like balancing the scales.
After chatting with Silas for a bit, Eamon called Calliope over. He asked about her life, about how the Jewell family was doing.
“Callie,” Eamon said, his voice warm but serious, “Monty’s come to see me a few times, asking for help. I turned him down, of course. But don’t know if he’s going to blame you for it. If he causes you any trouble, if he tries to bully you you make sure Silas gets you some protection, alright? Desperate people will do desperate things.” s
He gave her a knowing look. “The Jewells are in a bad way. They might try to pin it all on you. When cornered, even the gentlest rabbit will bite Theyre not good at much,
but they’re trouble. It never hurts to be careful.” s
Calliope nodded quickly, grateful for his concern. “Don’t worry, Grandpa. I’ll take care of myself, I promise p>
Eamon turned to Silas. “You look out for her too, Silas. Callie’s had a tough life since she was a kid. She deserves some happiness now p>
He then addressed the rest of the family, fixing them all with a stern look. “I brought you here to remind you: the Jewell family might come to you for help, too. I don’t care if you like Callie or not-don’t you are help the Jewells. If I find out anyone’s been in contact with them, you’re out of the Baker family. No exceptions.” s
Even in his old age, Eamon had a commanding presence that filled the room. Everyone nodded eagerly, promising they wouldn’t help the Jewells.
“Dad, you worry too much,” Fleur said, trying to sound casual. “We might not be Calliope’s biggest fans, but we’re not foolish enough to get mixed up with the Jewells p>
Fleur could tell Eamon’s warning was aimed squarely at her family, since they were the ones who’d always had an issue with Calliope.
“Glad to hear it,” Eamon said, turning to Yvette. “And you-how’s that baby coming along p>
Fleur’s face lit up, thrilled that Eamon was finally showing some interest in his first great-grandchild.
“Everything’s going well! Yvette’s been taking it easy at home, just focusing on staying healthy p>