A Reborn Bride Pearl Emerging from Dust by Sally Garcia

Portia practically stumbled upon Julius, panting and out of breath. She'd been running for what felt like forever, only relaxing when she was sure no one was chasing her anymore.

"There you are," Julius said, his expression a mix of relief and mild confusion.

After all, plenty of people wanted to be associated with him, but Portia's reaction earlier had been priceless. She'd made it very clear she wanted nothing to do with any rumors about them.

She'd shut down all the gossip in a heartbeat.

"Sorry about that," Portia blurted, still catching her breath. "I just panicked. If people think I'm your girlfriend, it's going to be a pain for me, and honestly, not great for you either!"

"Plus, you have so many fans. If anyone finds out you're really Julius, you can kiss your freedom goodbye. It was just a quick fix!"

Portia glanced at Julius, a little sheepish. "You're not mad, right? I wasn't actually calling you a plastic surgery nightmare or anything. I mean, I get along with you guys, but we all know what's up. Callie told us everything."

She looked genuinely concerned, worried she'd crossed a line.

But Julius just shook his head and offered her a crooked smile. "It's fine, really."

"And thanks, by the way, you were so quick on your feet. You probably saved us a lot of trouble."

for you, it's not too crowded over here. But seriously, you should still

bag and pulled out a face mask, handing it to him. "Here, better

idea," Julius said, taking the mask and slipping

face covered, he could pass for just another guy in the crowd.

finally letting out a sigh of relief. "I heard there's a street show that

Julius replied, falling in step

...

on the other side of the

up from Calliope and the others,

but decided not to meet up with anyone just yet Instead, she drifted between the booths and food

paused at a shooting game booth, curiosity

she picked up the BB gun, drawing a

here alone?"

way she's holding that, she

must

striking a pose, though, I gotta admit,