Chapter 7
Calliope’s POV
With a heavy sigh, I turned my gaze to Leander. “Did you tell them?”
Leander gave a nonchalant shrug. “Naturally. I couldn’t keep it from them.”
My father’s expression grew concerned. “Were you planning to hide this from us, Calliope?”
“No, Daddy,” I replied with another weary sigh. “I just didn’t want you and Mom to get so riled up.”
“God, Calliope, after everything that boy put you through,” my mother murmured, gently smoothing down my hair.
1/9
Leander piped up with a grin, “Maybe we should continue this conversation at home. I can’t wait to dive into your welcome home cake, Calliope.” That lightened the mood, drawing laughter as we made our way to the limousine. During the short drive, my father prattled on about what I wanted done to Thaddeus.
As we finally pulled to a stop at the house, I smiled reassuringly at my father. “Don’t worry, Daddy. I’ll handle it.”
Stepping out of the car, I paused to take in the sight of our home; it seemed unchanged from three years ago, though the renovations were unmistakable.
“I missed this place and all of you” I confessed with a sigh.
2/9
“We missed you even more, kiddo,” my mom replied with a warm smile.
Crossing the threshold, I slipped off my shoes and caught Leander’s curious gaze.
“Did you really come back with just that small bag?” he asked suddenly.
I nodded, glancing at the modest travel bag slung over my shoulder. “Yup, it’s just my hospital stuff in here.”
“Don’t worry, Calliope,” my mom reassured me. “Your old room is still just as you left it, with clothes that should still fit–though you seem to have lost a bit of weight.”
Leander chuckled. “No worries, Mom. If her clothes don’t fit, I’ll take her shopping.”
We shared a laugh as Leander followed me
3/9
up to my bedroom. Even after all these years, the layout of the house was etched into my
memory.
Once away from earshot of our parents, Leander asked, “How are you really doing?”
“If I’m being honest, I’m better,” I confessed with a shrug.
He smiled warmly. “Good. I’m glad you’re back.”
“Me too,” I said, playfully mussing his hair.
“Oh, and you’re definitely helping me fix this mess of hair today,” Leander declared before exiting.
Left alone, I headed for the shower, luxuriating in the bathtub until I emerged feeling thoroughly refreshed. I slipped into
4/9
a floral gown before joining my parents and Leander at the dining table, murmuring apologies for their wait.
“It’s alright,” my father assured me as maids began serving our meal.
We ate in companionable silence until my mother spoke. “How are you feeling, Calliope?”
“I’m just so glad to be home, Mom. And that you and Dad aren’t angry with me.”
“We could never be,” my mom replied.
My father nodded in agreement. “And there’s no need to worry about your grandmother’s will anymore.”
Actually, Dad, I would like to claim the will,” I insisted.
5/9
My parents exchanged worried glances, and even Leander paused mid–bite.
“Are you sure about this, Calliope?” my mom asked gently.
“Yeah, no pressure,” my dad added. “This was what drove you away before. We don’t want that to happen again.”
Reassuring them with a smile, I said, “You don’t have to fear me running off, Dad. I’m here to stay, and I’m ready to claim the will.”
My father nodded, albeit reluctantly. “Alright. We can make arrangements in a few months.”
I shook my head. “No, Dad. I intend to claim it as soon as possible. Today, if the lawyer is available.”
6/9
The surprise was evident on their faces. My mother gently touched my hand. “Calliope, you don’t need to do this, especially after everything you’ve been through.”
I caressed her hand lovingly. “Thank you, Mom, but this is what’s best for me.”
With a nod to my father, she said, “Looks like you’ll have to call the lawyer, honey.” He tapped at his phone before nodding at me.
“She’s on her way,” he confirmed.
“Thank you,” I said with a grateful smile.
The rest of our meal was a quiet affair, laden with the unspoken concerns my parents undoubtedly harbored. But I knew where I stood, and claiming the will was the pivotal first step in a much larger plan.
7/9
I’d spent countless hours in the hospital plotting and preparing. Coming back to Solterra wasn’t just for home’s comforts- I was ready to strike back tenfold at those who had wronged me.
The doorbell rang, and soon a young blond woman, possibly in her early thirties, was shown into the sitting room by one of the maids.
“Good afternoon, everyone,” she greeted with a polite smile. “I understand I’m here regarding a will reading from three years ago.”
I nodded. “Yes, I’m back and ready to accept the will.”
The lawyer glanced at my parents, who nodded their approval for her to proceed.
8/9
She cleared her throat.
“Calliope, you understand that by claiming the will, you’re agreeing to fulfill its stipulations?” the lawyer asked.
“I realize the conditions,” I affirmed.
“You’re prepared to marry the man your grandmother chose in order to claim your inheritance and become heir to The Ashford Empire, correct?”
“Yes, I’m willing,” I replied with unwavering certainty.
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