Chapter 181

“I’m sorry, Lisette. We couldn’t make it as grand as we hoped, and the party had so many hiccups,” Ulysses said.

After the party wrapped up, Ulysses and the others apologized to Lisette. They knew Lisette’s birthday bash was nothing compared to the extravagant affair Calliope had enjoyed. They had truly wanted to give her something even more special.

“Don’t worry about it. It’s not your fault!” Lisette replied gently. “I’m really happy with how it turned out. Thank you all. I know you guys love me the most.”

“You little goof, of course we love you,” Ulysses said, ruffling her hair. “You’ll always be our only sister. Don’t worry. Your brothers are always here for you. While this birthday party might not have been perfect, next year will be amazing without any distractions!”

“But, isn’t it unfair to Callie?” Lisette lowered her gaze. “She’s your real sister, and I’m just someone who came into your lives. Shouldn’t it be me who leaves?”

“Not at all, Lisette. You’re our real sister!” Ulysses assured her.

“Yeah, don’t think like that! You mean more to us than you realize,” Valerian added.

“Forget what others say. You’re the sister we’ll protect for life,” chimed Horatio, looking at her warmly.

Lisette was touched. “Having you in my life is the best thing ever!”

“And we’re just as lucky to have you!” they replied, their smiles wide.

Meanwhile, Calliope hopped into the car with Silas, who had brought a change of clothes for her. After a quick change, they invited Uriah and some friends to grab a late-night snack.

They settled by the river with spicy buffalo wings, cheesy nachos, and ice-cold beers and enjoyed the night breeze.

Initially, Calliope felt a heaviness in her heart, but the aroma of the wings quickly lifted her spirits.

“We should celebrate, Callie,” Portia said, pouring drinks. “Cheers to you finally breaking free from that messed-up family!”

“Exactly! Good riddance to them!” Archie toasted with a grin. “Callie, you won’t have to deal with their nonsense anymore. You’ll only get better from here!”

“Callie, remember, you still have us,” Mavis added. “And your brothers. You’re loved by many.”

“I think it is a positive step,” Uriah agreed. “It must’ve taken so much courage, but I believe it was the right move.”

Calliope smiled softly. “Thanks, guys. With you here, it doesn’t feel so bad.”

Cutting ties with her family left a hollow space in her heart, but surrounded by friends, she felt warmth and security return.

“They’re the ones missing out on you,” Portia said confidently. “Someday, they’ll realize what they lost. They have no idea how amazing you are.”

“Yeah, a bunch of fools. They’ll be begging for forgiveness one day,” Archie added, his expression serious. Mavis nodded. “The Jewell family was too blind, and Lisette acted her part too well. But eventually, her act will fall apart!”