A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust

"He's always acted like his father was long gone. When he was a kid, that man tried to erase any trace of his existence, made his life hell. If it hadn't been for Eamon stepping in, I don't know what would've happened to him."

"As he grew up, he cut off all contact with his father. Completely. But, you know, back when he was just starting out, his father showed up again. Tried to mess with him, put him down, told him he'd never amount to anything."

"I think that's why he pushed himself so hard all these years, why he's become who he is now. He wanted to prove him wrong."

"As for now? I doubt he wants anything to do with his old man."

Damien finished the story and looked over at Calliope. "He never really talks about it, so I'm just piecing things together."

Calliope nodded, thinking it over. Then she asked, "So, what if his father came back and tried to hand everything over to him? Do you think Silas would take it?"

If Silas wanted that, she'd support him, of course. But if he didn't, if he wanted nothing to do with Oliver, she'd have his back and keep the man away.

"No way," Damien said, shaking his head. "He doesn't need anything from him. There's no love lost, and honestly, what his father has isn't worth taking. The man only got those things by hurting Silas and his mom in the first place. He doesn't want any part of it. If anything, he probably hates the guy's guts."

That was exactly what Calliope had guessed, but she wanted to be sure. Now that Damien had confirmed it, she didn't feel any need to go easy on Oliver.

"But, ma'am, why are you asking me all this?" Damien asked, suddenly wary.

He was sharp. Silas trusted him with good reason.

"Don't tell me you've run into him? Has he shown up here? Is he trying to get in touch with Silas?"

Damien sounded angry. "What right does he have to show his face after all he's done?"

"Damien, I haven't told anyone else about this, but since you've figured it out, I'll tell you the truth."

"I just saw Oliver. Literally, just now. He tried to get me to leave Silas. Tried to convince me that Silas

should take over everything he!!!!

owns. Because his second son is a lost cause. The guy's sick, terminally ill.

Calliope's voice was steady as she spoke to Damien. "I know how much you all dislike him, so I don't want to give him any chance to get close to Silas."

"Since you're asking, here's my plan: when the time comes, I need you to cover for me. I don't want Silas getting dragged into this. We have to make sure Oliver never gets near Silas." noveldrama

Damien didn't hesitate. He trusted Calliope; he knew she could handle Oliver. If he'd thought she was out of her depth, he would've said so. But he knew she was more than capable, so he nodded right away.

"Ma'am, whatever you need, I'm with you."

"Thank you for trusting me, Damien!"