In the days that passed, Jean Valjean and Cosette noticed a marked change in Grantaire's disposition. He became more friendly, less contrary, and less cynical. Jean Valjean no longer found him rummaging through the pantry, and he said Grace at meals. Much to Cosette's delight, Grantaire even began to chose a chair over the ground. But, perhaps most importantly, Grantaire began to have a little faith in himself. His success in sobriety had shown him that he was indeed capable of accomplishing things. The kindness of Jean Valjean and Cosette had kindled in him a love of life and his fellow man that had never existed before. Jean Valjean was right; love was the answer. Never before had Grantaire been treated with respect, but now that he was, the change was astonishing. Grantaire now bore little resemblance to the drunken cynic he was only three weeks before. And Grantaire himself realised that. After a while, he began to wonder what Enjolras and the rest of Les Amis may think of him. He decided to go to Monsieur Fauchelevant for advice.
"Monsieur?" Grantaire called, gently pushing open Jean Valjean's door.
"Yes, Grantaire, you may enter," the old man answered warmly. As
Grantaire approached the trestle table at which Jean Valjean sat, and the older man motioned for him to join him. Grantaire obliged, and nervously began to speak.
"Well, Monsieur Fauchelevant, it has been three week since you and your daughter found me out on the streets. And I like it here, I really do. Cosette is an angel; a very strange angel, but an angel nonetheless. And you, Monsieur-" Grantaire broke off, finding words inadequate to express his reverence for the older man. "You've, well…you've done a lot for me. And I appreciate all of it! I'm not ungracious. I'm different now. I'm truly happy here, with you and Cosette….it's just that…well…"
"You want to see your friends again," Jean Valjean answered quietly. "I understand."
Grantaire started at him for a few seconds, then resumed with a resounding "Yes! Yes, that's it exactly. Because I am so different. I suppose-I supposed I am just curious to see how Enjolras, I mean! how they will all react when they see me. Sober! And coherent. Sometimes-most of the time…just not right now!"
Jean Valjean softly chuckled. "It's quite alright, Grantaire, you're just a little nervous. It is perfectly natural."
"So…so you think that it would be wise?"
"I do, Grantaire. I believe that you will be pleasantly surprised by your friends. You speak so highly of them; I am certain that they will accept you back into the their lives quite easily. I will have Toussant pack your things." Jean Valjean put his hand on Grantaire's arm. His eyes sparkled. "Your new life awaits!"