A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust by Sally Garcia

Franco hadn't counted on running into Valerian right then. Of all the luck, Valerian just had to show up at that exact moment, and, of course, he immediately noticed

the car.

The car was still under its cover, so you couldn't see the details, but the shape was unmistakable. Anyone could tell it was a car, and a pretty sweet one at that.

Franco felt his mouth twitch, feeling a mix of awkwardness and dread. He knew, with absolute certainty, that Calliope had not intended this car for Valerian. But Valerian had been under that impression for a while now.

He'd convinced himself the car was a gift for him.

And Calliope hadn't bothered to explain otherwise.

"Oh, it's nothing," Franco said with a shrug, trying to play it cool. "Just parked the car here like Callie asked."

Honestly, he wished Calliope would handle this whole mess herself. He didn't exactly love dealing with the Jewell family. Every conversation with them felt like stepping onto a minefield.

"Is this a new car?" Valerian asked, his eyes practically sparkling.

"Yeah, it's brand new," Franco replied, hoping to keep things vague.

it? What's it for?" Valerian asked, looking like

she'd arranged to have the car delivered right to the front for

contain his excitement. He'd wanted this car for ages. He'd

was, the perfect

as meaningful as the stuff Lisette usually gave him,

as I know, Callie's giving it to someone," Franco said, trying not to roll his eyes. He really

to Ulysses,

this car. Bet you didn't see that coming!" Valerian announced,

you a car?" Ulysses

glance for him. She was all about

right!" Valerian said, puffing up with pride. "She wanted to surprise

already figured it out. She

Valerian talked, the happier he got. He strutted over, ready to whip off the cover and check out his "gift." He probably wanted to take it for a test

soon as he got close, Franco stepped in, blocking his

not to touch the car," Franco said wearily. "She never

Seriously, don't

on! Of course it's for

Valerian insisted, practically