Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Lena stood at the front door and, as expected, saw Hattie and Garrett returning with Josefina in tow. The sight stabbed at her heart, sparking a storm of jealousy and rage within her. Why did it have to be like this?

Jealous she may have been, but Lena plastered a smile across her face and bounded to the door to greet them. "Hey, Mom, Dad, Josie, you're back! Did you guys have dinner together?"

A glimmer of hurt desperately trying to hide itself showed in Lena's eyes. Whoever saw it couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy.

Holding a bag in her hand, Hattie said with maternal warmth, "We called you earlier to join us for dinner, but you said you were busy, so we went without you."

Garrett chimed in with a smile, "Yeah, we even ran into Oliver and Brandon at the restaurant."

Oh, Lena! She had missed out big time! If only she'd known, she would have joined them!

Hattie handed the bag to Lena. "Here's your favorite lemon drizzle cake. I had it boxed up, especially for you."

me." Lena was beaming and clung to Hattie's sleeve, chatting affectionately. They were standing close as if they were the true mother and daughter. Josefina didn't seem to mind. After all, Lena had been

get some rest.

whip up a nourishing broth for you to take to the office tomorrow,"

nodded with a smile

was her mother, after all! Letting go of Hattie's arm, Lena kept up her cheerful façade.

"Why didn't you tell me right

Josefina's cheeks flushed red. Sitting on the sofa, biting her lip, she remained

about lunch tomorrow? I'll return

pretty swamped

I found your bracelet. The least you could do was treat me to a meal," he

reluctantly. "It might be