Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Lauren was grinding her teeth in anger, but Billy was holding her arm, keeping her from exploding into a tirade.

Billy still had that grin plastered on his face. "Josie, have a sip of coffee, chill out. Whatever it is, we can talk it out slow and easy."

Josefina coughed twice behind her hand before taking a couple of sips of her coffee.

That's when Billy continued, "Josie, you know how your mom's got a short fuse, right? She's always been like this, so don't get worked up. I reached out 'cause I need your help with the family biz."

As Josefina kept her lips sealed, Billy pressed on, "Josie, if our company is doing well, you can benefit too, right? I mean, sure, your current folks aren't rolling in dough, but when the time comes for you to tie the knot, me and your mom can throw in a helping hand."

can't push

right? Before a girl gets hitched, she's gotta show her worth, make sure no

"Who says a woman has to get married? I can't choose not to? Besides, why would I marry someone who looks down on me?

to say, Josefina. After being played by those big shots, you're still acting like

telling me you called me here to sell myself

of the bag, Billy told it how it was, "Josie, take one for the team, for the family's sake. Once we're back on

rich ladies. Face reality, girl, gotta keep your feet on the ground, right?"

snorted, "Unbelievable. We're not even family anymore, and you kicked me out. Why should I lift a finger for you? Who do you think you

wasn't taking the bait, Billy went for the hard sell, "Help me broker a deal, and I'll give you a cool

is way too much. Give her half and

Mom, I'm not mad, as long as it helps Mom and Dad, I'm up