Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Lauren burst out the door, but Josefina was nowhere to be seen. She ended up just choking on the exhaust from Xavier's car as it sped away, leaving her fuming.

When Lauren returned to the banquet hall, the guests had all but gone, leaving only Billy and Ruby behind.

Billy's face was a stormy shade of thunder as he glared at Ruby. "Look at the fine mess you've made! You've completely tarnished my reputation!"

Ruby was on the verge of tears. "Dad, I didn't mean for any of this to happen..."

"You didn't mean for it? Do you think that changes anything? It's your vanity, Ruby! You can't hold a candle to Josefina!"

Lauren marched up, her stance protective of Ruby. "Billy, why are you still laying into her? She's a victim here! If Josefina were so sneaky, would our Ruby ever fall for her scheme?"

Billy retorted, his anger palpable, "If she hadn't flunked with a 250, would we be in this mess? She can't blame others for her own lack of abilities!"

at Billy. "Ruby is my daughter, and

was beyond hope. Ruby was her daughter, not some goddess to be

it anymore. Shaking his head, he walked

was a disgrace, a complete and utter disgrace! Had he made

away, he'd be the proud

the more it pained him. He got into his car

...

glass, celebrating with

food, her joy as absent as flavor in wax. She looked up to see Oliver peeling a shrimp and placing it on Josefina's plate. He then served her a generous helping of vegetables, asking tenderly if she wanted some

fussing over me. I can serve myself.

turned his head to listen,

the subtle scent coming from Josefina. It was not like perfume but something more natural. Her warm breath on his ear sent a shiver down his spine, and her voice was so soft and delicate. Oliver's lips curved

a sigh of relief when Oliver ladled her a bowl of soup. Despite his words, he continued to dote on Josefina like a