Chapter 141
Kale looked exasperated as he spoke, “Ms. Josefina, it’s Billy again. He’s causing a scene downstairs. We could’ve called the cops or had security toss him out. It’s really up to you on how to handle this.”
Whatever Josefina wanted, he would do.
Josefina chuckled lightly. “What do you expect me to do? Am I buddies with him? Do I even know him?”
It suddenly clicked for Kale. That shameless scoundrel Billy was really taking advantage of the fact that he had a past with Ms. Josefina, thinking he could run amok?
“Ms. Josefina, I’ve got it.”
Kale left to take care of this, promising to handle it with finesse.
After Kale stepped out, he saw Billy still ranting about being Josefina’s father.
“Call the cops, tell them a lunatic has escaped from the asylum and is causing trouble at our company’s front door.”
Billy was taken aback, his disbelief evident. “Did you go find Josefina? Does she know I’m here?”
Kale replied coldly, “It’s precisely because we know it’s you that we’re going straight to the police.”
Billy thought about the troubles he had faced and shouted, “Where’s Josefina? I need to see her. There’s something I need to ask her!”
“What do you want to ask?” No one noticed when Josefina had arrived. She emerged from behind Kale, her presence commanding, her aura one of unassailable power. Her eyes darkened, her red
lips curved into a cool arc.
For a moment, Billy couldn’t believe that the woman in front of him was the same girl he had fostered for eighteen years. The Josefina from the past was never this cold in his presence.
“Josefina, I just want to know, all those partners who stopped working with me—did you have a hand in that? They all said I was blind. They even said I turned away Lady Luck.”
All signs pointed to Josefina being the true bringer of fortune to his household.
Josefina’s gaze was cutting. “No comment.”
“Josie, for heaven’s sake, I raised you for eighteen years. Can’t you just talk to them, get them to keep working with me, please?”
“No.” Josefina’s refusal was absolute. She looked at Billy with icy detachment. “Next time you show up, I’ll have someone call the cops. Try me if you don’t believe it.”
As Josefina turned to leave, Billy called out desperately, “Josie, when you were ten and had a fever, I was the one who carried you to the hospital. Josie, have you forgotten? When your mother didn’t care for you, I was the one who supported you, and visited you in the countryside.”
The memories brought a sour twist to Josefina’s heart. She turned, her laugh tinged with self- mockery and a sense of forlorn strength. “Mr. Antonio, when I was ten years old, you took me to the hospital because we had guests at home. That time, you earned yourself the reputation of a caring father and convinced business partners who also cherished their daughters to choose your company. You visited me in the countryside just once. And I later found out you were there to buy silk from the local farmers. Every step you took towards me was calculated.”
Billy, his face flushing with embarrassment, glanced around only to find onlookers staring at him with disdain. He looked even more mortified, as if stripped bare for all to judge.
“Josie, at the very least, I visited you, didn’t I? You can’t be so ruthless. Just help me this once, can’t you?”
“Impossible.” Josefina’s response was sharp and decisive.
She turned to those nearby and said firmly, “Call the police.”
Kale whipped out his phone and dialed. “We got a nutcase here, probably escaped from a loony bin. Better get him locked up before he starts chopping people up or something.”
Billy slipped away.
Chapter 142
After a hectic day at work and just as Josefina was about to call it a day, her phone buzzed. It was her mom, Hattie, on the line.
“Josie, your dad was telling me how you’ve whipped the company into shape and landed a pretty penny for the fashion house. We’ve decided to take you out for dinner tonight to celebrate. My girl, you’re just so capable, and mama is so proud of you.”
A warm flutter stirred in Josefina’s chest, bringing her a comforting sense of assurance.
“Josie, we’re trying a new place this time, not the usual Gourmet Galaxy. A change of scenery. We’ll come and pick you up.”
“It’s alright, just text me the time and place, and I’ll meet you there.”
Hattie knew Josefina preferred to keep a low profile, so she agreed, “Alright, Josie. Don’t overwork yourself. Money’s endless, but health comes first.”
“Thanks, Mom. I’ll take care of myself.”
The word ‘Mom,’ filled Hattie with elation.
“Okay, Josie, I won’t keep you from clocking out. See you in a bit.”
“Sure thing.”
After hanging up, Josefina gathered her things and headed out. Her phone rang again; it was Oliver.
“Dinner together?”
Josefina’s lips curled into a faint smile. “Family called. Can’t make it tonight.”
Oliver’s tone couldn’t hide the disappointment. “What time will you be done? Maybe I could meet you after?”
“No need, I’ll head straight home after dinner with the folks.”
The line went silent, and Josefina thought the call had dropped. Checking her phone, the call was still on. As she was about to hang up, Oliver spoke.
“Where’s dinner?”
“East Garden Restaurant,” Josefina replied skeptically.
Oliver’s deep, magnetic voice hinted at coincidence. “What are the odds? I’m heading there too.”
Josefina suspected he was spinning tales. “I’ve got to go now, about to drive.”
She drove her Mercedes toward the East Garden Restaurant.
Lena arrived at the restaurant, a job offer letter burning a hole in her purse, and she was over the moon. Entering the private dining room, she saw her family already gathered and exclaimed, “Grandpa, Mom, Dad, Calix, did you all know something in advance and come here to celebrate?”
Hattie nodded. “Yes, we already know.”
Garrett was visibly excited. “The team showed me the numbers. Josie is exceptional. She turned the tide single-handedly and generated immeasurable profit for the company.”
Josefina’s design sketches had caught significant attention. If she could continue producing such stellar designs, the future earnings could be staggering.
Grandpa Robert beamed. “Josie’s got more talent in her little finger than the rest of you combined.”
Lena was taken aback. So the celebration wasn’t for her? The family didn’t know she’d been offered an exceptional position at the hospital?
Sitting down, Lena forced a smile. “Josie is amazing.”
Just then, Josefina walked in.
“What’s amazing?” She approached, puzzled, and took her seat next to Hattie.
Hattie poured her a glass of water. “Josie, have some water first. We were just singing your praises. You handled the plagiarism crisis brilliantly.”
Unruffled by the acclaim, Josefina smiled modestly. “I just did what needed to be done.”
Lena remembered something she wanted to share, and slowly, she began to speak.
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Lena fished out an offer letter from her bag, well aware that all eyes were on her. With a smile that lit up the room, she announced, “Today really is a double joy—I got accepted at the hospital. To keep up with my studies, I’ll intern every weekend, and once I graduate, I’ll be working there full- time.”
Hattie’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Lena, that’s fantastic news!”
One by one, everyone showered her with congratulations. Lena basked in their praise, her eyes occasionally flicking toward Josefina with a hint of triumph.
Josefina caught the challenging look and curved her red lips into a confident smile. “Lena, that letter just means you have a long-term internship. To actually land a job at the hospital, you’ll have to go through a post-internship evaluation and competition, right?”
The room fell into a stunned silence.
Lena was flabbergasted. How did Josefina know this? She wasn’t a professor at the hospital, nor was she part of the judging panel. How on earth did she come across this information?
Grandpa Robert furrowed his brow, his authoritative gaze scrutinizing Lena. “Lena, don’t go spouting off about things you’re not sure of. If word gets out, you’ll make the Harrison family the laughing stock of the town.”
Lena’s eyes welled up with tears, as if she had been wronged, tears filling her eyes. “Grandpa, I… I didn’t mean to. I just wanted to share the good news with the family, and I’m confident I’ll secure a position at the hospital.”
Realization dawned on Grandpa Robert. “So, what Josie mentioned is all true?”
Lena’s mind was in turmoil as she scrambled to explain. “Grandpa, I’ve always been top of my class in the hospital evaluations. There’s no way I’d get cut.”
Garrett interjected, “Lena, wait for the final results before you make any announcements, got it?”
Hattie added her two cents. “Lena, we all know you’re exceptional, but some things need to be considered carefully before you speak.”
Calix nodded in agreement and gave Lena an out. “Lena, why don’t you order something to eat and we can talk more later?”
Taking the hint, Lena let the subject drop.
The group ordered their meals, chatting away as they waited for their food.
…
Meanwhile, Billy, Lauren, and Ruby had also chosen this place for their dinner. Seated in an upstairs private dining room, they were dressed to the nines, as if afraid their wealth would go unnoticed.
Ruby was in a pink dress, her makeup flawless, her gaze occasionally drifting to the door in anticipation.
Billy glanced at his watch, his brow furrowed with concern. “Ruby, are you sure Xavier will show up? Did you two confirm the time?”
Ruby’s face was a mask of anxiety. “Dad, he told me. He’ll be here by eight, guaranteed.”
Lauren tried to soothe the tension. “Billy, just wait a bit longer. Traffic’s heavy around this time. Maybe he’s stuck in a jam?”
“If he knew about the traffic, shouldn’t he have left earlier?” Billy grumbled, clearly irked.
Lauren’s patience was wearing thin. “Billy, remember you’re the one asking for a favor. Adjust your attitude.”
Billy knew the purpose of his visit and wisely chose to remain silent.
As they waited, the clock ticked past half-past eight without any sign of Xavier. However, Xavier’s call did come through. Ruby answered, deliberately switching on the speakerphone so Billy could hear Xavier’s voice.
Ruby was about to speak with a shy expression on her face when she heard Xavier’s icy voice coming through the phone. “Ruby, I can’t make it. I’m tied up and won’t be able to join you for dinner. Enjoy your meal without me.”
His frosty words pierced their hearts like a dagger, leaving the three of them reeling in shock and disappointment.
Chapter 144
The phone clicked dead, and Ruby’s anger flared like a bonfire in a Midwestern field. Clutching her cell, she redialed with shaking fingers. Soon after, a woman’s stern voice crackled through the speaker. “Stop calling Xavier, Ruby. You’re not fit to be part of the Rowland family.”
Ruby recognized the voice—Xavier’s mother. Their paths had crossed once. Mrs. Rowland’s gaze had been laced with disdain when it landed on her, as if Ruby were some common weed unworthy of her manicured garden.
And then, silence. The call was disconnected again.
Ruby’s thumb hovered over the screen, ready to dial once more, but a sharp message displayed: Blocked.
The atmosphere in the private dining room turned cold as a New England winter. Billy glared at Ruby, disappointment etched on his face, as he stood up and snapped, “Ruby, what the heck are you up to? I moved heaven and earth to book this VIP room, and now you’re telling me Xavier blocked you? His mom forbids your little romance?”
Lauren’s temper flared, “Is Xavier’s mom out of her mind? Our Ruby’s a catch—she’s the one who’s too good for Xavier!”
Billy just stared at her, dumbfounded. He seriously started to doubt whether Lauren had been replaced by a doppelgänger. How could she not grasp the gravity of the situation?
Ruby, tears streaming down her cheeks, sobbed, “Mom, Dad, I don’t get it either. Xavier’s been nothing but sweet to me, even said he couldn’t marry anyone else. He must be under his family’s thumb. I’ll see him tomorrow, get to the bottom of this.”
“Right,” Lauren said with resolve, “I’ll go with you to see Xavier tomorrow.”
If Billy’s fury could have taken form, it would have incinerated both Lauren and Ruby, leaving nothing but ash.
“You two complete blockheads!” Billy fumed as he stormed out. He couldn’t bear another minute in that room.
Exiting the VIP area, Billy descended to the lobby, where he encountered Josefina stepping out of the elevator, surrounded by a group that seemed to be her family. They were all smiles, showering Josefina with adoring looks as if she were some kind of precious jewel.
Josefina caught sight of Billy and told her family, “I’ll just pop to the restroom. You guys go ahead to the car.”
The group left the restaurant, and Billy approached Josefina. “Who are they?” he demanded with a righteousness that was almost comical.
Josefina chuckled softly. “Mr. Antonio, since when are you someone to inquire about my affairs?”
Billy’s eyes narrowed, fixated on her. “Why are you so hell-bent on ruining me?”
Josefina laughed, a sound as light as champagne bubbles. “When have I ever tried to ruin you? You’re the one running the company. If it’s failing, how is that my fault?”
Billy was stumped and pressed on, “But who are those people? Your family?”
Billy didn’t quite believe it because he noticed the watch on Garrett’s wrist, worth five million.
“Mr. Antonio, my personal life is none of your business.” Josefina was exhausted, wondering how a simple meal could lead to an encounter with Billy.
She stepped forward to leave, but Billy tried to block her path. Alas, Josefina moved with the grace and speed of a gazelle, leaving Billy to stumble and fall. By the time he picked himself up and dashed outside, Josefina was pulling away in a sleek Maybach.
Staring at the license plate and the parade of luxury cars following it, including a Mercedes, he doubted his own eyes.
“If those people were Josefina’s relatives, what kind of family did she come from?”
The question gnawed at him as his phone buzzed. “Mr. Antonio,” the voice on the other end started, “I’ve uncovered something…”
Chapter 145
When Billy heard the voice on the other end of the phone, he was absolutely ecstatic. Wasn’t this like a dream come true?
“The company’s saved! It’s really saved, it’s like a miracle!” Billy danced around with uncontainable joy.
Lauren and Ruby stepped out just in time to catch Billy’s jubilant jig, looking for all the world like he’d lost his marbles.
Passersby gave him sidelong glances, their whispers barely concealed.
“Is that guy off his rocker or what?”
“He’s totally lost it.”
“Good Lord! Someone should call the loony bin for him.”
Lauren marched over, grabbing hold of Billy’s arm, “Billy, have you gone nuts?”
Ruby was worried too. If something happened to Billy, who would clean up the mess at the company?
Billy’s face was alight with excitement, “Don’t you see? We’re gonna be rolling in dough!”
He grabbed Ruby’s wrist, “Ruby, come on, I’m taking you shopping for some new threads.”
Amidst Lauren and Ruby’s puzzled looks, Billy whisked them off to a boutique. Ruby couldn’t believe the extent of extravagance as he bought three sets of clothes and another handbag for her.
Wasn’t Billy known to pinch pennies? Now he was bleeding cash, which could only mean he had some lucrative scheme up his sleeve. Ruby saw right through these antics.
Back at home, Lauren felt like ants were crawling over her with anxiety, desperate to know what had gotten into Billy.
“Billy, have you lost your mind? You’re throwing around money like it’s nothing—has the company’s crisis been sorted?” Sure, it was right to treat Ruby well, but Billy’s actions were perplexing.
Lounging on the couch, Billy couldn’t hide his glee, “Remember our family’s engagement pact with the Baldwins?”
Lauren nodded, “I know, your father said the Baldwins were loaded. Before he passed, he told us the engagement was off; he didn’t want his old friend to think we were social climbers.”
Billy snorted, “He didn’t know jack. I’ve done my homework—the Baldwins are the top dogs, the global tycoons, that Baldwin family.”
Lauren and Ruby caught on to the significance—marrying into the Baldwin family meant high society, wealth, and influence on tap. Helping Billy would be a cinch.
Ruby, mulling over her prospects, chirped from the couch, “Dad, are we visiting the Baldwins tomorrow? If I can marry into the Baldwin family, I’ll definitely help our family and expand the company.”
Billy was touched by Ruby’s words. They struck a chord.
“Ruby, my girl. Get some rest tonight, doll up tomorrow, and you’ll accompany me to meet Brandon. If he’s on board, then it’s off to see Oliver. Our luck’s just around the corner.”
Ruby nodded happily and headed upstairs to rest, aiming to meet the Baldwins in top form.
…
Josefina arrived home to the news that Oliver had come by. As her family entered, they saw Oliver comfortably sipping tea in the living room.
The chandelier cast a halo of light around him, and when he looked up at the sound of their arrival, his eyes fixed on Josefina, lingering with affection. His doting gaze made Josefina blush.
They all went in, and Oliver cordially greeted the elders.
Lena didn’t hesitate to call out, “Good evening, Oliver. It’s so nice to see you.”
Chapter 146
Oliver’s gaze steadfastly avoided Lena, fixating instead on Josefina. “Josie, I need a word with you. How about we step outside to talk? Okay with you?” He sought Josefina’s consent with such genuine gazes that it seemed impossible to say no.
Noticing her family members nearby, Josefina nodded in agreement. Clearly, if Oliver wanted to talk outside, it was a matter that wasn’t for the family’s ears.
Josefina followed Oliver out, leaving Calix gaping in disbelief. As Calix was about to step forward, Grandpa Robert’s hand clamped down on his arm. “Cal, what are you planning?”
Calix blurted out, “Gramps, can’t you see? Oliver’s eyeing my sister.”
Grandpa Robert replied with a knowing tone, “You think I’m blind?”
Calix was confounded. So, did Grandpa actually approve of Josie getting involved with Oliver?
Calix objected, “Gramps, I’ll never stand for Oliver as my brother-in-law. Just look at him, he always wears a stern expression. And his tactics can be quite ruthless. My sister’s delicate as a daisy – how’s she going to bear his rough handling?”
The room fell into an awkward silence. There’s speaking your mind, and then there’s talking nonsense.
Hattie interjected, “Calix, your sister’s just discussing business with Oliver. You’re making it sound like she’s head over heels. I’m telling you, if you don’t buckle down and get serious, you’ll be back here running the family business.”
Garrett chimed in, “Your older brothers are soaring high, Cal. It’s time you came home and helped out. Drop that dream of being an artist. Do you think you’re the next Gideon with his astounding talent?”
Grandpa Robert added his bit, “Cal, look at Josie. She just took over the company and already she’s turned the tables. As her brother, can’t you make a bit of an effort?”
Feeling cornered by the family’s nagging, Calix made a quick exit.
Lena watched from the sidelines, her resentment towards Josefina growing by the minute. Ever since Josefina’s return, her ability to outshine everyone made Lena fear for her own place in the Harrison household.
How could Lena willingly give up her position in the Harrison family after all the years she spent curating her persona? She was determined to have the Harrisons wrapped around her finger.
…
Strolling down the path of the Harrison estate, Josefina and Oliver were surrounded by well- manicured lawns and beds of flowers and shrubs, their delicate fragrances filling the air.
The summer’s heat was tempered by a nocturnal breeze that brought a touch of coolness.
Josefina broke the silence first, “What did you want to talk about?”
Oliver’s voice came soft but clear, “My grandfather’s been feeling under the weather. He’d like you to drop by tomorrow, check on him, maybe take his pulse.”
Josefina was puzzled; such a simple request hardly necessitated Oliver’s personal visit.
“Why didn’t you just call?”
“How else could I have the chance to see you?” he replied.
Josefina halted in her tracks, and Oliver followed suit, standing before her. Oliver lowered his gaze as Josefina looked up, their eyes locking.
The falling petals scattered around, floating gently in the air before landing on Josefina’s head. Josefina’s face was radiant and glowing, with rosy cheeks and striking black-and-white eyes. The streetlights above reflected in her eyes, sparkling like a galaxy.
Oliver reached out, causing Josefina’s heart to flutter, a current racing through her body, making it impossible to hold his gaze.
As Oliver drew nearer, Josefina’s heart raced with panic. Then, gently removing the petal from her hair, he whispered in her ear, “What are you afraid of? Afraid I’ll kiss you?”
Chapter 147
Josefina shoved Oliver away and quickly retreated a step. “Look, Oliver, it’s getting late. You should head on home.”
Oliver watched Josefina make a break for it, his lips curling into a mischievous smirk as he continued to close the gap between them.
She ran, he chased; it was a game she couldn’t escape.
Hattie stepped out and called to Josefina.
“Josie, I’ve got a pot of chicken soup simmering in the kitchen. Fancy a bowl?”
Without hesitation, Josefina blurted out, “Yes, I’ll have some.” She had to take the soup, or Oliver might end up devouring her instead.
Hattie, always the polite hostess, extended the invitation to Oliver. “Oliver, would you like to join us for a bowl?”
Oliver, ever the gentleman, declined. “Thank you, Mrs. H, but Josie says it’s late and I should be heading home.”
Josefina fell silent. Oliver gave off an impression as if Josefina had caused him some sort of injustice.
…
After Oliver left, Hattie and Josefina strolled back to the house.
Under the glow of the streetlights, Josefina looked utterly charming. Hattie’s eyes were filled with remorse as she gazed at her daughter. If only she had found Josefina sooner.
“Josie, I’m sorry for all the hardships you’ve faced. That tragedy at the hospital separated us for eighteen long years.” Hattie wished she could give her daughter the world to make up for the lost time.
“How could they mix up three babies? What the heck happened at the hospital that day? How did we end up with the wrong child?”
“I was on a business trip with your father when the labor pains started, and we found a hospital for the birth. Right after you were born, there was a commotion about a child abduction. Then there were rumors of a gunman. The nurses handed you to your father, and we immediately transferred to another hospital.”
Listening to this, Josefina felt something was off. “The hospital’s security couldn’t have been that lax.”
“Ever since I found out about the mix-up, I’ve had people investigating. The doctors and nurses from that time have either retired or left the city. They’ve vanished without a trace.”
Josefina frowned; this matched up with what Luke had found out. They needed to find those people from back then to uncover the truth.
“Josie, I’ve asked your father to continue the investigation. We must find those involved. My daughter suffered because of them, and I won’t let any of them get away.”
Josefina tried to calm her mother’s agitated state. “Mom, I’m starting to get hungry.”
Just as expected, Hattie’s focus immediately shifted. “You’re hungry, Josie? Shall I ask the chef to whip up a plate of pasta for you? Or maybe you’d prefer some fried rice? We’ve got fruit as well. Whatever you want, we have.”
“I think I’ll just have some fruit. We still have the soup, right? Eating too much at night can upset my stomach and mess with my sleep.”
“You’re absolutely right, dear. Let’s have some fruit, and if you get peckish later, we can always ask the staff to prepare a little midnight snack. Eating little and often is the way to go.”
They continued chatting as they walked into the living room.
Lena, who had her eyes fixed on the door, was curious to see that Oliver hadn’t stayed. Why hadn’t Josefina kept Oliver back? Didn’t she realize the advantage of sticking by Oliver’s side?
With a sly smile, Lena called out, “Mom, Josie, come on over for some soup.”
Josefina didn’t respond but followed Hattie over to the dining area.
…
The next morning, Billy embarked on his journey to hitch his wagon to a billionaire.
Ruby got herself dolled up by a professional makeup artist and slipped into a chic and expensive dress. She joined Billy and Lauren en route to Brandon’s place.
But as soon as they reached the doorstep, they were stopped in their tracks.
Chapter 148
The security guard, diligent and vigilant, asked with a firm tone, “Who are you here to see? Do you have an appointment?”
Billy was taken aback. Since when did you need a booking to drop by someone’s place?
With confusion written all over his face, Billy listened as the guard went on, “We operate on a strict appointment system here. The residents let us know who’s coming, what time, and we verify it. Seems like you don’t have one, I’m sorry, but I can’t let your car in.”
Without Brandon’s cell number, Billy had no choice but to reverse out of the driveway. He parked the car off to the side and approached the guard to negotiate.
First, he took out a cigarette to offer, but the guard declined. Then he promised a tip, but the guard refused once again, even scolding him.
“Sir, what are you implying? Trying to bribe me? You want me to break the law? I’m calling the cops.”
Billy was fuming. The gates of the upscale neighborhood held an authority that barred him from entry.
The three of them sat in the car, strategizing on how to get in. The final plan? Billy spent some cash to get ahold of Brandon’s number.
He dialed the number, and Brandon’s deep voice answered, “Who’s this?”
“Mr. Brandon, it’s me, the son of Bailey. My dad often mentioned you, said if he were in better health, he’d challenge you to a round of golf.”
A chuckle came through the line as Brandon realized, “Ah, Bailey’s boy! What do you need?”
Billy’s pride took a hit at Brandon’s blunt greeting. He pressed on, “The thing is, my dad always talked about an engagement between your grandson and my daughter. She’s a real catch—smart, graduated from a good school, and well-behaved, just a gem.”
Brandon was doubtful. Could anyone really match his Josie in looks and brains? Or in accomplishments? Hewas genuinely curious about what kind of girl could be so outstanding.
“Look, kid, I’ve discussed it with your dad too. These arranged engagements are old-fashioned. Your girl sounds wonderful, but my grandson’s not worthy.”
Billy’s jaw dropped. Was Brandon dismissing the arrangement? With a furrowed brow, Billy persisted, “Mr. Brandon, I’ve heard Oliver is a real catch, way out of our league. I’m actually at the gates of your community right now, but security won’t let me through. Otherwise, I’d be at your place chatting over a cup of coffee.”
Brandon was taken aback. At his doorstep?
As he checked his phone, a message from Josefina popped up—she was at the gate.
He quickly replied, [Josie, you’re here? I’ll send Bennett to meet you.]
[No need, I know my way. I’ll head over,] she typed back.
Josefina drove by, and Billy’s family caught sight of her. Billy was stunned. What was Josefina doing here?
Ruby’s face darkened, “She must be here to work as a cleaner, right?”
Lauren scoffed, “With her looks, could she be someone’s mistress in this posh area?”
Ruby frowned, “Could she really snag a rich guy here? Doesn’t seem likely.”
On the other end of the line, Brandon overheard Lauren and Ruby’s remarks, his brow furrowing, “Who are you talking about?”
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Brandon’s reply sent a shiver down Billy’s spine. He shot a glance at Lauren and Ruby. What kind of time was this to be gossiping about others?
Keep it to yourself, and talk at home!
With a smile plastered on his face, Billy explained, “We bumped into an old maid from back home. She was always slacking and nibbling at our pantry, even had sticky fingers. Never thought we’d run into her here, caught us all off guard.”
Brandon furrowed his brow. Josie had just arrived, and these three had already encountered a maid? Wasn’t that a bit too coincidental?
Brandon didn’t dwell on it; after all, Josie wasn’t that sort of person.
Just then, Bennett entered with news, “Sir, Ms. Josefina has arrived.”
Over the phone, Brandon said, “That marriage arrangement with your father was called off years ago. I’ll have someone reach out to you with some compensation.”
After hanging up, Billy stood there, dumbstruck.
Lauren frowned, asking discontentedly, “Billy, what’s going on? Did Brandon just reject our visit?”
Ruby wrung her hands nervously, “Dad, what’s happening? Doesn’t Brandon want to see me?”
Billy was at a loss, taking a moment to collect himself. He had distinctly heard Josefina’s name on the phone.
Ms. Josefina? So Josefina had gone to visit Brandon?
Billy relayed this to the others, and Lauren’s anger ignited instantly. “So that’s it! I knew that little snake Josefina couldn’t just leave quietly. She must have found out about Brandon’s status, waving around that marriage contract, claiming to be Oliver’s fiancée.”
Ruby panicked, “Mom, how could she do this? The contract is mine, and so is the title of Lady Baldwin.”
Lauren tried to calm her, “Ruby, don’t worry just yet. I’ll expose Josefina’s true colors to the Baldwins and show them what she’s really like.”
Billy, frowning, said, “Brandon has already acknowledged Josefina. Whatever we say now is futile. He mentioned a settlement for our family.”
Ruby protested, “Dad, are you just going to ignore my marriage like that?”
Lauren chided Billy, “Don’t let money blind you.”
Billy replied, “Let’s wait and see. Once Josefina comes out, we’ll ask her what’s really going on. If she has taken Ruby’s place, we’ll have a word with her. You two, keep your cool, let her be of use to us for the time being.”
Lauren, discontent, muttered, “I have to be nice to her now?”
Ruby consoled her mother, “Mom, just bear with it. For dad, for our family. As long as you and dad are happy, I can endure anything.”
Ruby’s words touched Lauren deeply.
At that moment, they could do nothing but wait.
…
Josefina drove up to the gates of Brandon’s villa, where the staff stood in two neat rows on either side of a red carpet, welcoming her.
“Welcome, Ms. Josefina. It’s a pleasure to have you,” the servants chimed in unison.
Josefina was taken aback by the grand reception. What was Brandon up to?
Feeling somewhat awkward, Josefina stepped onto the red carpet as Bennett approached with utmost respect, “Ms. Josefina, Mr. Brandon is waiting for you inside.”
Walking on the scarlet pathway, Josefina entered the villa. Inside, there was a pair of pink slippers— the same ones she had worn on her last visit.
The slippers, clean and new, were meant only for her.
Brandon greeted her with a warm smile, “Josie, come have a seat. You must be tired from the journey. I had the kitchen prepare some chilled beverages, along with fruit and light pastries— refreshing and not too sweet. Have some, rest a bit, and then maybe you can take a look at my ailment.”
Chapter 150
Josefina looked at the carefully prepared items on the table, all of which were her favorites.
Brandon had gone to great lengths, and Josefina could tell he had a soft spot for her.
“Grandpa Brandon, you really didn’t have to go through all this trouble,” Josefina said, flattered by his attention.
Brandon looked at her with a fondness, motioning for her to take a seat. “Josie, our families go way back, and I think of you like my own granddaughter. While I’d love nothing more than for you to be my granddaughter-in-law, I wouldn’t dream of pressuring you. Josie, consider this place your second home. Whatever your heart desires, just let the staff know and they’ll take care of it.”
Bennett chimed in with a smile, “Ms. Josefina, just give me the word, and I’ll make it happen. Anything from the sky, the sea, the land – we’ve got it all. We even have a chopper on standby. Mr. Brandon says, if you ever fancy jetting off to a fashion show abroad or taking a spontaneous trip overseas, we can make it happen without a hitch.”
Josefina was speechless. She knew the world of the wealthy was extravagant, but this was beyond anything she’d ever encountered. No wonder, when she arrived, Bennett had pointed out a helicopter resting on the lawn.
“Grandpa Brandon, I appreciate this, but let’s get down to business. I should check your pulse.” She was worried that if she listened any longer, she’d feel obliged to take a ride in the helicopter.
Brandon chuckled and extended his wrist to make it easy for Josefina to feel his pulse.
His condition had improved significantly, thanks largely to the medicine Josefina had provided.
“You’re doing much better. Keep up with your tai chi and take the medicine I’ve prescribed, and you’ll be in tip-top shape,” she assured him.
“Josie, I can’t thank you enough. I’ve been restless these days, a bit anxious and even suffering from insomnia.”
Josefina smiled, “Grandpa Brandon, I’ve brought you another bottle of medicine today to help you manage your mood. You need to take it easy on some things, for your own well-being.”
Brandon shook his head, feeling helpless, “My biggest worry is Oliver settling down. I won’t be able to rest in peace until I see him married with children.”
Josefina felt uncomfortable; she knew what Brandon was insinuating. Was he hoping she’d marry Oliver? She’d rather not. The idea of marriage had always scared her. Seeing Billy and Lauren’s disastrous relationship only fueled her fear of ending up with someone like Billy or failing at family life.
She smiled politely but didn’t engage further, and Brandon smoothly changed the subject.
After a short chat, Josefina stood up to leave. “Grandpa Brandon, there’s work at the office I need to attend to, I should get going.”
Brandon rose immediately, “Josie, could you wait just a little longer and join me for lunch?”
He had phoned Oliver earlier, urging him to come home quickly in hopes of him spending more time with Josie.
“There really are matters I need to address at the company,” Josefina insisted, her expression serious.
Brandon knew she had fought hard battles and had important matters to attend to, so he reluctantly let her go.
Josefina’s car had just rolled out of the driveway when Billy stepped in front of it. Lauren and Ruby positioned themselves at her car window as if daring her to drive, Billy seemingly ready to play matador to her bull.
Billy approached, his voice low and placating, “Josie, step out for a second. There’s something I need to ask you.”
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