Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

The buzz of confusion was palpable in the Antonio household, but none felt it more acutely than Billy and Lauren. They had been utterly swept away by the surprise their daughter had sprung on them, but now, clarity was seeping in.

Ruby's eyes brimmed with tears as she defended herself, her voice quivering, "I lost my exam admission slip, and when the school called home, I thought they were talking about me..."

Lauren's heart ached as she watched her daughter cry. It wasn't fair-this mess wasn't Ruby's fault at all. It was all Josefina's doing!

"You've made quite the spectacle, Josefina. Are you happy now? You watched Ruby get attacked, and your plans worked out just as you wanted, didn't they? We don't want you here, Josefina. Just leave!" In Lauren's eyes, Josefina had orchestrated the entire debacle. She knew she was a top student and had shown off on purpose. Sure as day, Josefina was no good!

Josefina let out a derisive snort, too proud to bother with an explanation. "I want everyone here to bear witness to the fact that from this moment on, I have no connection with the Antonio family. Let's part ways From now on, whatever happens with the Antonios has nothing to do with me."

Her gaze shifted to Billy, and with a calm look, she addressed him, "Dad, this will be the last time I call you that. I still remember the kite you bought me when I was little. Even after Mom tore it to pieces, I kept it safe because it was the first and only gift you ever gave me. I thought you didn't like me because I wasn't trying hard enough or was good enough. I pushed myself to study, to come out on top, and you suspected me of cheating. Now I realize that no matter what I do, you'll never really like me."

you that, too. You sent me away to the countryside as a child, and I never understood why you despised me so much. I tried so hard, just hoping for one glance back from you. Now I understand. Maybe you always knew I wasn't your child. Even now, as the valedictorian of our final exams, I'm still not worthy to be your daughter. So, if

all ties with the Antonio family!"

a nagging sense that she

she wasn't her biological child?

into a nearby table laden with champagne flutes. The expensive wine wobbled with Lauren's movements, and with a crashing sound,

mixed with red wine, and the

thing - what a disgrace the Antonio family

had turned into

in chaos. The guests began to show