A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust novel Chapter 964

That was his job—his responsibility.

“Let it go,” Portia said, waving a hand dismissively as she strode ahead. “No need to fret. Callie has someone else looking out for her. She doesn’t need you playing bodyguard.”

Damien shot her a skeptical glance. “What’s that supposed to mean? Someone else? Did Mr. Stewart arrange something?”

“Uriah?” Portia gave a short, incredulous laugh. “As if. He can barely remember what day it is. You think he’s worrying about Callie’s safety? Don’t make me laugh.”

“So what are you saying—?”

“I’m saying Nigel’s stepping up. He’s on his way to watch over Callie right now. To be honest, he’s far more reliable than any of you have ever been,” Portia said with a hint of exasperation.

“Nigel?” Damien’s brows drew together. “What’s he got to do with it? Calliope is our responsibility. We can protect her ourselves!”

Portia snorted. “By the time you get off your high horse, it’ll be too late. Mr. Howell, on the other hand, saw where Callie was headed, knew there could be trouble, and decided to follow her—even without being asked. Now that’s initiative.”

She actually sounded impressed, dropping a few words of praise for Nigel.

Damien’s jaw tightened, a dark, stormy cloud settling over his features as the bitter sting of jealousy took hold.

Calliope was his to protect. When did that become Nigel’s place? What the hell was he butting in for? Damien’s mind raced—Nigel was just trying to take advantage of Mr. Myers being tied up. He knew exactly what he was doing, waiting to swoop in when everyone else was too busy. Shameless.

“He’s no saint. He’s got his own agenda,” Damien muttered.

“Damien, are you serious right now? Since when did you get a sense of humor? Tell me—does Mr. Myers know you’re running to me for a favor?” Nigel had just zipped up his suitcase when Damien appeared in the doorway.

Damien saw the ready luggage and knew he’d guessed right—Nigel was heading straight for Calliope. Everything was clearly set for a quick departure. Sure, Damien could make arrangements himself, but it would cost him precious time. If he wanted to catch up, hitching a ride with Nigel was his best bet.

“We’re both after the same thing—Calliope’s safety,” Damien said, keeping his voice steady. “Another set of hands could make all the difference. Besides, Nigel Howell, isn’t your goal to protect Calliope too?”

Nigel regarded him with a smirk. “Oh, I want to protect her all right—but so she’ll start seeing me in a whole new light. I can do that all on my own. Why would I want you tagging along?”

“That’s what I’m saying,” Leland chimed in from the doorway, arms folded. “There’s no reason Mr. Howell should take you with him.”