"I grew up in the convent of Petit-Picpus -- do you know it? Papa's brother was a gardener there. He was old, his knees were bad, Papa came to help him. They both kept all the convent's gardens and trees, and I went to school there."

Fauchelevent was not Valjean's brother, of course, but Cosette doesn't know that. All her time there, it was the official story, and her father was named Ultime Fauchelevent.

"When my uncle died, we moved out. Papa has business as well. I don't know what sort, he doesn't say much, but we're comfortable. He gives me anything I want, always."

She ducks her head a little, flushing with what's still a private joy. "I am engaged to be married. His name is Marius -- Marius Pontmercy."