A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust

Although Uriah was deeply skeptical about what Silas had said, he figured that with so many people around, it wasn't exactly unheard of for someone to get separated from the group. After a moment's thought, he turned and went off to look for Mavis.

"Do you want to let them know?" Silas asked, glancing at Calliope.

"No need," Calliope replied with a smile. "They're probably having a blast. Mavis just texted me that she thinks Norton's great. They're hitting it off and have plenty to talk about."

She hadn't expected Mavis and Norton to get along so well, honestly. But it was clear those two were really enjoying each other's company.

Silas nodded. "Alright, let's just leave them be. Uriah's on his way over. Let's see how he reacts."

Calliope's eyes suddenly sparkled with mischief, like she'd just thought of something especially fun.

Silas paused, instantly catching on. Judging by her expression, she was definitely up for a little bit of drama.

"Honey, let's go check it out too!" she said eagerly, obviously curious about how Uriah would handle the situation.

Silas couldn't help but grin, a look of affection softening his features. He ruffled her hair and, without a second of hesitation, agreed.

So, the two of them set off, sneaking behind Uriah as he hurried toward Mavis.

Uriah, meanwhile, was too preoccupied to notice that not only had his buddy sold him out, but he was now being tailed by Silas and his wife, who were clearly there for the entertainment.

He couldn't help but feel irritated at the idea of Mavis and Norton hanging out alone together. Especially since Calliope had mentioned that Norton might be interested in Mavis. The thought just gnawed at him.

And then it occurred to him-both of them had the last name Shepherd. If they ever had kids, there wouldn't even be a debate about what the baby's surname should be!

Uriah's face darkened at the thought. Would their kid have to call him "Grandpa Uriah” or something? That would make him feel ancient. Damn it!

...noveldrama

Meanwhile, Mavis and Norton were genuinely hitting it off, but it wasn't that kind of chemistry. It was more like the easy banter of siblings. They enjoyed each other's company didn't find each other annoying, and actually liked hanging out, but there wasn't even a hint of romance.

Mavis felt like she'd gained a big brother. As for Norton, he already saw Calliope

as a little sister, and Mavis fit right into that same role.

The two of them chatted away, strolling through the bustling fairgrounds: Norton was naturally protective, always looking out for whoever he was with, so he made sure Mavis was having a good time. If she glanced at something, he'd buy it for her without a second thought. The guy had social skills for days.

Sometimes, all it took was a quick look from Mavis, and Norton would pick up on exactly what she wanted.

"Norton, you really don't have to buy me so much stuff," Mavis said, a little embarrassed as he handed her yet another prize. "This is more than enough."

"Hey, if you like it, I'll get it for you! It's not like it's anything fancy. Even if it was, just call me 'bro' and I'd still be happy to spoil you," Norton replied totally unfazed. "You and Callie both call me big brother, so that makes you my real little sisters."

He shrugged like it was the most natural thing in the world. "I saw you checking this out, so I figured you liked it. No big deal. If it's too much to carry, I'll hold it for you."

"Oh, and didn't you say you liked shooting games? I saw another booth up ahead. Want to go for a couple more rounds?"

He hadn't said anything earlier, but he'd noticed when Mavis won a giant teddy bear and ended up giving it away, even though she clearly liked it herself. He could tell she'd felt a little sad about it, probably just because it was a hassle to lug around.

Now, Norton was determined to win her another one, and this time, he'd carry it, so she wouldn't have to worry about a thing.