Miss Josefina: Nobody’s Princess Chapter 61-70

Chapter 63

Josefina was the epitome of calm, a coy smile playing on her lips as she teased, “If you’re so keen on seeing him, why don’t you go find him yourself?”

Lena’s forced smile instantly crumbled, “Josie, I’m just looking out for you. Why are you coming at me with claws out?”

“All I’m saying is the truth. I’ve got nothing going on with Oliver. Why should I return with him? It’s not like he’s one of the family.”

Josefina’s words were unapologetically blunt, silencing Lena completely. With a silent chuckle, Josefina parked the car, took the elevator straight from the garage to the living room.

Thank heavens for the elevator in the Harrison’s sprawling mansion. It saved quite a bit of hassle.

As Josefina stepped into the living room, Regina appeared, bearing a plate of artistically arranged fruit, her face beaming with a smile. But upon seeing Josefina, that smile retracted slightly.

Regina had been expecting Lena, not Josefina. Her face soured, as if she’d swallowed a fly.

“What’s the matter? Not thrilled to see me?” Josefina eyed her with a hint of challenge.

Regina had never seen anyone call out an awkward moment so bluntly. Country bumpkins just don’t know the first thing about etiquette—not like Lena.

Still, well aware of her place, Regina responded with a put-on humility, “Miss, you’re mistaken. Why wouldn’t I be happy? We’re all delighted you’re back.”

Josefina eyed the fruit platter, “Is that for me?”

“Yes, I prepared it especially for you.”

With a broad smile, Josefina accepted it, “Well, since you went to the trouble, I’ll be sure to enjoy it.” She set the fruit platter on the table and began to eat.

Regina was internally screaming. That was her masterpiece, a fruit platter an hour in the making, meant for Lena.

And just as Lena walked in, she witnessed the scene, feeling like she might just faint.

Regina moved towards Lena with a smile, “Miss Lena, welcome back.”

Lena didn’t even spare Regina a glance, swiftly turning to take the elevator up, not even coming down for dinner.

…

Josefina surveyed the table laden with delicacies, eating to her heart’s content.

“Josie, how did your inspection go today? I heard from the manager there was a bit of a situation, and Oliver was there too?” her father inquired.

Josefina nodded, knowing full well the news had likely already spread. “Oh, it’s nothing I can’t handle,” she reassured them and recounted the day’s events.

Garrett and Hattie were fuming.

“That Xavier dared to mess with my little girl,” Garrett seethed, “I’m gonna give his father a piece of my mind.” He grabbed his phone and stepped aside to make the call, careful not to tarnish his image in the eyes of his darling daughter.

Hattie looked at Josefina with maternal concern, “Honey, you’ve got to tell me these things as they happen. And those bodyguards, what were they doing? Why didn’t they protect you?”

Hattie was irritated. Had she spent a fortune on bodyguards just for them to stand by idly?

Josefina quickly interceded on their behalf, “I didn’t want to alarm the customers, so I asked them to wait outside. I never expected to run into Xavier and Ruby. But don’t worry, I can take care of myself and won’t let anyone hurt me.”

Hattie held Josefina’s hand tightly, her voice laden with emotion, “My girl, remember, nothing is more important than you. We can let the money go, but you must always stay safe.”

Chapter 64

Josefina felt a surge of warmth in her heart and, on impulse, called out, “Mom, thank you.”

Hattie’s eyes sparkled with delight. “Oh my, my baby girl just called me ‘Mom!'”

She was so thrilled she wanted to shout it from the rooftops.

“My girl said ‘Mom’ before ‘Dad!'”

“Ha! That means I’m the numero uno in her heart!”

Hattie, bubbling with excitement, gripped Josefina’s hand but then worried she might be squeezing too hard. She let go, fretting, “Sweetheart, did I squeeze too tight?”

Josefina couldn’t help but chuckle. She’d merely said ‘Mom,’ and Hattie was over the moon. Memories from her childhood flashed before her eyes. She remembered stumbling toward Lauren, calling her ‘Mom,’ only to be pushed to the ground.

“I’m not your mother, and you’re nothing but a little brat!” Lauren’s harsh words still echoed in her mind.

Josefina’s nose tingled with the sting of old wounds as she stared at Hattie, her eyes brimming with warm tears. The regrets of her youth seemed to be healing as she grew older.

Hattie was taken aback, clumsily dabbing at Josefina’s tears. “Oh honey, why the tears? Did I say something wrong? It’s okay if you don’t want to call me Mom. As long as you’re happy, it’s all good.”

Garrett strode in quickly, his heart fracturing at the sight of Josefina’s tears falling like pearls. “What’s wrong, pumpkin? Don’t you worry. I’ll drag Xavier and Ruby here to get on their knees and apologize!”

Nothing hurts a father like his daughter’s tears.

Josefina giggled through her tears. Unlike her helpless and sorrowful childhood, she was now filled with joy and contentment. She wiped away her tears and smiled, “Mom, Dad, I’m fine. I’m just so happy, so incredibly happy.”

Garrett, in disbelief, took Hattie’s hand. “Babe, pinch me. Did our girl just call me ‘Dad?’ Am I dreaming?”

Hattie gave Garrett’s thigh a pinch, and he yelped in pain. Hattie laughed and said, “Silly, of course she called us ‘Dad’ and ‘Mom.’ But just so you know, darling, she called me ‘Mom’ first. You’re a tad late.”

Garrett grinned, “You’ve worked harder. You deserve to be called first.” The trials of motherhood were no small feat. Hattie blushed at his gaze, their love as strong as ever.

Josefina reassured Garrett, “You don’t need to worry about Xavier and Ruby. I’ll handle them.”

Garrett shook his head vigorously. “How can I let my girl deal with these stuff? I’m here. You should just be the merry little lady of the Harrison family.”

Josefina’s smile broadened. “Trust me, I’m on it.”

Hattie swatted Garrett’s hand lightly. “Josie said she’ll handle it. Why are you being so stubborn? Keep this up, and I won’t let Josie call you ‘Dad.'”

Garrett quickly backed down, “Alright, pumpkin, I’ll leave it to you. If you can’t handle it, then call me.”

Josefina nodded emphatically, the three of them basking in familial bliss.

Meanwhile, Lena, hidden in the shadows of the upper floor, overheard the exchange. She slipped into the bathroom and sent Ruby a message using a spare phone. [Josefina is coming for you! And she says she’s already on it!]

Ruby scoffed upon receiving the message, “If she could take me down, would she have waited till now?”

Little did Ruby know, she wouldn’t be laughing the next day.

Chapter 65

The morning after, Lena was taken aback when she heard that Josefina was heading off to work at the company. “Working? Aren’t you fresh out of your final exams? Aren’t you supposed to be in school?”

With a chuckle, Hattie explained, “Well, Josie said she was itching to get busy and feeling antsy without earning her own keep. We figured we’d grant her some assets, so she’s off to check on one of her businesses today.”

Finishing her last bite of a sunny-side-up egg, Josefina’s eyes twinkled playfully. “Aren’t you supposed to be in school? I thought you were about my age. Even though I started a year late, you should be a freshman in college by now, right?”

Lifting her chin with pride, Lena declared, “I may have started school a year ahead of you, but I’m already a sophomore. Plus, with my knack for medicine, I’m attending med school and have already begun my hospital internship.” Still, Lena would have to return to school once her internship was up.

Josefina, amused by Lena’s haughty demeanor, complimented her, “Wow, you’re impressive.”

Garrett was ridden with guilt, and lamented, “If Josie hadn’t been switched at birth, she wouldn’t have had to delay her exams till this year. Sweetheart, got any colleges you’re fond of? Wherever you wish to go, I’ll make sure you get in.”

Given the Harrisons’ deep pockets, Josefina could take her pick. Her parents always planned for their beloved daughter.

Lena caught the underlying message. Josefina didn’t seem to be the darling of the Antonios and likely wasn’t too sharp academically, right?

Tsk, tsk, so what if she’s a billionaire’s daughter? She sucked at school!

But Lena forgot that regardless of whether Josefina was a top student or not, her birthright was something Lena herself could never achieve in a lifetime.

With a playful grin, Lena teased, “Josie, just tell Dad which school you fancy. He adores you so much. A few extra buildings in your name should do the trick.”

Josefina’s expression remained gentle, her smile sweet. “Let’s wait for the exam results.”

Lena didn’t take Josefina seriously. Was this just a case of pride? Well, a strong sense of self-worth can be a good thing. Lena was curious to see Josefina’s exam results.

After breakfast, Josefina was chauffeured to the company. “I’ll come with you, Josie. Let the driver take you. I’d worry if you went alone. I’ll just keep you company in the car,” Hattie insisted, keen to ensure Josefina would accept her company, even if just from a distance.

Since Hattie insisted, how could Josefina refuse? Garrett was also eager to try and offer himself for the task of dropping Josefina off at work.

Catching his glance, Hattie knew exactly what he was thinking. “Don’t you have a meeting this morning? Get back to work, and while you’re at it, call those three rascals to come home. Josie’s been back for days. As her brothers, they should be here with gifts to welcome her.”

Garrett was reminded of his three sons, which brought on a headache. Those boys were only ever keen on Lena, acting like she was their only sister and reluctant to return home. Always ‘busy’ – but were they really?

“I’ll call them the moment I get back to the office!” Garrett’s voice betrayed his irritation.

Josefina, for her part, was indifferent. She didn’t really care what her brothers thought.

“Well, I’m off to work then.” With a smile and a wave, Josefina left in the car.

Sitting beside her, Hattie’s voice was soft but firm with repeated instructions, “Darling Josie, remember what Mom said. Fire any employee who doesn’t behave, anyone who dares to disrespect you, and anyone who upsets you. The company’s yours, so do as you please.”

Josefina couldn’t help but laugh at Hattie’s overindulgence.

“Josie, you don’t need to feel awkward about it. You’re the boss. They’re the employees. If employees start showing attitude and disobey, the company’s better off without them.”

Chapter 66

Josefina nodded with a grin. “Sure thing, don’t worry about me. I’ve got this.”

Hattie, though reassured, still had Tori and Jett stick around nearby, ready to jump in at a moment’s notice if anyone tried to hassle Josefina. They were her safety net, quick on their feet to ensure Josefina’s protection.

“Aren’t you worried I might run the company into the ground and lose money?” Josefina asked, her curiosity piqued. Running a company wasn’t child’s play. Their confidence in her was astounding.

“Even if we lose money, it’s no biggie. The main thing is your happiness,” Hattie replied, her words echoing the sentiment that Josefina’s joy was truly priceless. A mother’s love knew no bounds, always striving to shower her daughter with the very best!

Feeling touched, Josefina vowed not to let the company suffer losses. She was determined to keep it profitable! If she could build Antonio Corporation, she could surely helm this new venture to success.

Josefina instructed the driver to pull over to the curb, careful to avoid any unwanted attention to her identity.

With a hint of reluctance, Hattie suggested, “Why don’t you have Ryan drop you off further ahead? Walking is such a drag.”

“No need. A little walk is good for the body,” Josefina said, flashing a smile as she opened the car door and stepped out. She turned back to look at Hattie with a beaming face.

Josefina’s skin was flawless, as delicate as porcelain. The sunlight kissed her face, casting shadows that only enhanced her stunning beauty.

“I’ll come pick you up after work,” Hattie offered.

“Sounds good,” Josefina replied, waving goodbye and even exchanging pleasantries with Ryan before leaving.

Ryan was over the moon and gushed to Hattie, “Ma’am, the young miss is a true chip off the old block – beautiful, courteous, and bold. Such a gem is rare these days.”

Pride swelled on Hattie’s face as she beamed, “Josie has indeed surpassed her old folks.”

…

Riding the elevator to the women’s fashion department on the sixth floor, Josefina was ready to take on the challenge. The company, a gift from Garrett, was still in its infancy, a chance for her to cut her teeth in the business world.

Upon entering, Josefina found the receptionist holding nail polish, but at the sight of Josefina, her eyes lit up.

Josefina stood before her, a natural, untainted beauty with features so perfect they left no room for criticism. Her smooth skin was reminiscent of a pearl, and even without makeup, she was a head- turner.

The receptionist, still holding her nail polish, asked, “Who are you looking for?”

“I’m not looking for anyone.”

Her response drew a laugh from the receptionist. “What do you mean?”

“I’m the new boss, Josefina.”

With that, Josefina stepped forward, heading into the heart of the company, her brows furrowing at the sight of the lax employees. Her presence drew all eyes to her.

“Good afternoon, everyone. I’m your new boss, Josefina. Drop whatever you’re doing. We meet in the conference room in ten minutes,” she announced before striding off to her office, leaving a trail of stunned faces.

“Who is she? The boss? Has she even graduated yet?”

“Are we kidding here? A greenhorn running the show?”

“Did she latch onto some rich exec’s coattails and now playing house?”

“A meeting? Does she even know the first thing about it? Over her head, if you ask me.”

“Jaxon, let’s just skip the meeting, alright?”

With a scoff, Jaxon nodded, “Of course. Why bother? Does she even know how to manage a company? Let’s ignore her.”

While the staff remained idle, Josefina glanced at the clock, pulled out her laptop, and began to work with purposeful clicks and taps.

Suddenly, the employees outside were struck dumbfounded.

Chapter 67

Their computers were hijacked, and a menacing red line of text flashed on the screen: “Two minutes. Boardroom. Be there or consider yourself resigned!”

Everyone was baffled.

“Jaxon, our computers are toast! The mouse won’t even twitch.”

“Same here.”

“That girl looked green as grass. How’s she pulling this off?”

Jaxon scoffed, “You really think she’s behind this? With her kiddie face? She probably hasn’t even finished high school. No way she’s got mad computer skills like that.”

“Jaxon, what do we do? Are we going or what?”

Jaxon snorted with a smirk, “We’re going!” He was curious to see just who was stirring the pot.

When the disgruntled group arrived at the boardroom, Josefina was already there, arms folded, scrutinizing them as they entered. Her presence was overwhelming, her piercing gaze sending shivers down their spines – it was rare to see such a formidable aura in someone so young.

She fiddled with her computer and glanced at her list, “Looks like we’re one short. Did someone quit?”

Jaxon replied with irritation, “Tim’s got the day off. I approved it.”

Josefina smirked, “He took a leave after a two-day notice? He shouldn’t bother coming back. He’s fired!”

Jaxon huffed, “Making an example of him, huh? I wonder who you’re really trying to scare.”

“It’s you lot, of course!”

The room fell silent. They had encountered such blunt honesty before.

Josefina continued, “Let me be crystal clear. If you don’t want to work here, resign now. You’ll get your severance. If you’re staying, get to work and cut the slacking.”

Jaxon frowned, feeling the sting of being outplayed for the first time.

“Jaxon, I’ve reviewed last quarter’s performance. Frankly, it was pitiful!”

After a round of stern admonishment, the crowd left with their tails between their legs. Josefina made her point clear without mincing words. She knew that Jaxon and his cronies looked down on her, thinking she was an easy target. Without showing some teeth, she’d never gain their respect.

Jaxon’s pride was wounded, his anger flaring, “Since you’re so capable, let’s see what you can do with the company’s future. We’re all eager to see your ‘achievements.'”

Josefina’s smile didn’t waver. “Then keep your eyes peeled and work with me.”

She stood up. “Meeting’s over.”

Josefina strode out toward her office. She booted up her computer, fingers tapping away in a rhythmic dance across the keyboard.

Her mission at the Harrison family company was clear – to make them money. Her family had showered her with expensive gifts, and earning her keep was a way to pay them back. She hated owing anyone anything, especially favors.

…

In Oliver’s office, George relayed the latest scoop to Oliver.

“She started working?”

“Yes, reliable sources say Ms. Josefina is managing a fashion company. Today was her first day. There’s some resistance, especially from Jaxon.”

George awaited Oliver’s command, ready to clear any obstacles for Josefina at a word.

Oliver grabbed his coat and keys and strode out, with his secretary trailing like a lost puppy. “Mr. Oliver, where to?”

“Handle the paperwork,” Oliver said without looking back and left.

…

Josefina had been so absorbed in her work that she missed lunch. Her phone rang. She paused at the familiar number, then decided not to answer.

Oliver hung up and texted her. [I ordered lunch for you. Do you want it delivered, or will you join me at the café nearby?]

Chapter 68

Josefina was irked by the message. Why did this guy have to be such a pain? After a moment of contemplation, she decided to make a move. It was better if she met Oliver out there than to have him come down to her office. If Oliver showed up at her workplace, it would surely cause a stir, possibly affecting her job.

She made her way to the café and, upon entering, instantly spotted Oliver. He was sitting in a corner, waving at her with that indulgent smile that seemed to light up his face. His eyes had a certain charm that was hard to ignore.

Taking a seat across from him, Oliver handed her a wet wipe with a casual, “Clean your hands, let’s eat.”

Josefina didn’t find Oliver’s presence unpleasant. Quite the contrary, being around such a gentleman, who took care of everything, was rather endearing. But there was something he said that kept echoing in her head.

“Oliver, did you need to see me about something?” she asked.

“Let’s eat first. We’ll talk after,” Oliver replied with a nod. It was already noon, and Josefina hadn’t had lunch yet. What if she was starving?

Just as she was about to claim she wasn’t hungry, her stomach betrayed her with a loud grumble. Josefina was embarrassed. So much for trying to keep it cool!

Her eyes roamed over the spread of delicacies brought in from Gourmet Galaxy, each dish a crafted masterpiece that looked as good as it tasted. Without holding back, she picked up a piece of BBQ ribs with her fork, savoring the tender meat that melted in her mouth.

Oliver poured her a glass of juice, thoughtfully adding a straw for convenience.

After two helpings of rice, a bowl of soup, and a glass of juice, Josefina paused to catch her breath.

“So, what did you want to talk about?” she ventured, a tinge of nervousness in her voice. Could he possibly want to confess his feelings for her?

Her mind was racing with wild guesses when Oliver dropped a bombshell. “You want to partner up? Your company wants to collaborate with me? Oliver, are you pulling my leg here?” Her big eyes widened in surprise, a mix of playful and polite disbelief.

Oliver looked at her fondly. “What, can’t I work with you?”

Josefina glanced at him skeptically. “As far as I know, your firm doesn’t deal in women’s fashion.”

With a meaningful arch of his eyebrow, Oliver’s gaze deepened. “Josie, you seem pretty informed about my business.”

Her cheeks flushed instantly, a mix of embarrassment and surprise. “Well, who doesn’t know about your company’s moves?”

Holding her gaze, Oliver poured her another glass of juice, “We’re branching out and planning to launch a women’s line.”

Josefina’s mind was a whirl of emotions. A partnership like this was not an opportunity to be missed. Without bringing up anything else, Oliver seemed to have lowered her defenses considerably.

Considering the state of her company, Josefina was leaning towards a refusal.

“Josie, this is a partnership of mutual benefit. If you’re going to reject my offer, I’d like a reason,” Oliver stated plainly.

The problem was, Josefina couldn’t find one. If Oliver was keen on a partnership, why not? After all, who could say no to money?

“Alright, let’s partner up.”

A graceful smile curled on Oliver’s lips as he extended his hand towards her. “Pleasure doing business with you, Josie.”

Taking in his long, well-shaped fingers, Josefina admired them briefly before shaking his hand. “Pleasure doing business with you.”

As their hands met, Josefina felt a jolt, like electricity coursing through her veins. Oliver’s gaze was intense. His palm was cool and dry, but it set Josefina’s heart racing. She quickly withdrew her hand, and Oliver watched her retreat, amused by her rabbit-like escape, finding her all the more endearing.

While Josefina was smoothly navigating through her affairs, Ruby was like a cat on a hot tin roof, restless and uneasy.

Chapter 69

Ruby fidgeted in Billy’s office, feeling the weight of his hopeful gaze boring into her.

“Ruby, I know you have a knack for fashion design. With our sales soaring, you should really whip up some new designs.”

Designing clothes was no easy task, and Ruby knew she was in over her head. She bit her lip and looked up with a forced smile. “Dad, I’ve just been in a bit of a funk lately. It’s throwing off my creative groove. Give me some time to bounce back, and I’ll get those sketches to you.”

Billy whipped out his smartphone and transferred $15,000 to her. “Go treat yourself to some comfort food, maybe a new outfit. Ruby, the company’s riding on your talents. And mark my words, I’ll carve out a share for you in the business. If your brother can’t cut it, you’ll take the reins.”

Ruby completely fell for those words.

She feared that Josefina might come at her for plagiarism. She had two more of Josefina’s sketches, but she was afraid of revealing them. Now, it seemed she had no choice.

“Dad, I’ll get to drawing as soon as I get home and show you what I’ve got,” Ruby promised sweetly.

Billy beamed. “That’s my girl. I’m looking forward to it.”

As soon as Ruby left Billy’s office, she snapped a selfie and posted it to her Instagram story, which was only visible to her old high school friends. [Checking out Dad’s company. He’s talking about handing over the reins to me someday.]

Ruby was content and left with a spring in her step.

…

Back at her company, Josefina found the office deserted, save for Alex, a male colleague earnestly engrossed in his designs. She approached him and peered at his work. “A diagonal shoulder would give the dress more oomph than a straight-across neckline.”

Startled by her voice, Alex jumped. “Hi,” he muttered, his eyes wide with apprehension.

Josefina chuckled. “I’m not some bogeyman. Why are you so scared?”

Alex shook his head. “You’re drop-dead gorgeous, the prettiest girl I’ve ever laid eyes on.”

Her smile deepened. “Afraid of me?”

“It’s not you I fear—it’s Jaxon…”

Jaxon had made it clear that anyone cozying up to the new head honcho would be packing their bags. Fresh out of college, Alex was desperate to keep his job.

“I’m the real shot-caller of this company, not some manager who thinks he can overrule me,” Josefina said, pointing at Alex’s draft. “Carry on with your drawing and show me when it’s done.”

She retreated to her office to review years’ worth of company files, uninterrupted until three o’clock. There was still no sign of Jaxon and the others.

Dialing Jaxon’s number, she was greeted with his groggy voice. “Who’s this?” His tone was sour as if she’d woken him from a nap.

A chill spread in her eyes. “Jaxon, one hour of unexplained absence—there goes your monthly attendance bonus. If you and the team aren’t back in ten minutes, consider yourselves fired.”

Ten minutes? Cursing under his breath, Jaxon rallied the troops back to the office.

At nine minutes and fifty seconds, Jaxon and the six staffers burst in, disheveled, sweaty, looking like they’d just finished a marathon.

Jaxon’s own hair was a mess as he stormed toward Josefina with indignant authority. “Ms. Josefina, what’s the big idea? You may be the CEO, but you can’t just bully us long-timers like this. Back when we were breaking our backs for this company, you were still off in la-la land learning the ropes!”

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“Come on! We were just having lunch. How can you threaten to fire us over that?” the workers protested, their voices filled with disbelief and angst.

“Ms. Josefina, we’re all in the same boat here, just trying to make a living. Why make things tough for your employees?” They tried to appeal to the sense of comradeship that they hoped still existed.

Sitting regally in her chair, Josefina exuded an aura of commanding presence, her expression one of haughty disdain. Her eyes, bright as stars, fixed on Jaxon with an icy glare. Her words came out sharp as flames. “Jaxon, you still recognize you’re a senior employee, huh? Impressive. But since when have senior employees not stuck to their schedules? Skipping work without any reason?”

Her direct confrontation left many of the workers with sour expressions, their pride wounded. They hadn’t anticipated Josefina’s boldness to call them out so bluntly, leaving them no dignity to save.

Jaxon, riled up, retorted, “I took everyone out for a meal today, so what if we went over time by an hour?”

“So you like to hang out, Jaxon? Maybe you should just quit, then. You can drink into the wee hours, and no one will bat an eye. But work hours are work hours. Tardiness and leaving early will be dealt with by the book. We have rules for a reason. Without them, the company would be in chaos.”

Jaxon’s face was like the color of storm clouds, and though his brows were furrowed in anger, he dared not talk back to Josefina. Crossing Josefina meant you might as well pack your bags and leave. He was livid, turned on his heel, and stormed back to his office, leaving the others meekly returning to their desks, heads down, not daring to make a sound.

Josefina’s cold gaze swept over the crowd, her presence so dominant that it felt like the air was too thick to breathe.

…

Back in his office, Jaxon was seething, tempted to smash something. He had once dreamed he’d take the reins of the company, but Josefina’s sudden rise had shattered that dream. He couldn’t swallow the bitter pill of defeat.

Grabbing his phone, he dialed angrily. “Miss, Josefina is just too much. We can’t handle her.”

“Just wait,” a woman’s voice replied from the other end of the line.

Jaxon lamented, “She doesn’t play by the rules and shows no respect for us workers. A single minute late, and she’s on your case, not to mention her iron-fisted hold on power, crafting horrible policies.”

After venting his frustrations, Jaxon pressed, “Can’t we just get rid of her?”

“Not yet. Stay cool for now. See what she does next.”

Jaxon had no choice but to agree, “Fine. But Josefina is a nobody. Why can’t we just kick her out? You could squash her as easily as an ant, right?”

There was a moment of silence from the other end before the call ended without another word.

Jaxon cursed under his breath, his mind racing as he leaned back in his chair. At that moment, there was a knock on the door. It was Josefina.

“Come in!” Jaxon barked, his tone less than welcoming.

Josefina entered, holding a stack of papers, while Jaxon’s eyes bore into her as if laced with venom.

“Ms. Josefina, may I ask what brings you here?”

Josefina placed the files on the desk, her voice even, “Jaxon, I’ve been reviewing the company’s recent contracts. These two, in particular, are troubling. They’re with some no-name fabric mills, yet the prices are higher than established suppliers. Why is that?”

Shock flickered in Jaxon’s eyes, but he masked it with indignation. “Are you questioning my judgment and decisions?”

Josefina nodded simply. “That’s right.”

Taking a deep breath, Jaxon tried to defend his position, “You can’t just dismiss these smaller mills. They can produce quality fabric. If you don’t understand the business, then don’t interfere with our work.”

Josefina then laid out a piece of fabric on the desk. “You call this quality?”

Jaxon was in shock. He looked into Josefina’s piercing eyes, suddenly feeling a twinge of guilt.

“How is this not quality fabric? Just do your job and don’t worry about past contracts. What’s it to you? Are you a Harrison heiress or something to be sticking your nose in everywhere?”