Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Lena's eyes shimmered with tears as she asked, "Really?"

"Of course, it's true," came the comforting reply from Regina. "You've been part of the Harrison family for eighteen solid years. Could Josefina even hold a candle to that? Like they say, 'Familiarity breeds fondness.' That's eighteen years of countless hellos. You tell me, doesn't that count for something?"

Lena let the words soothe her, feeling her emotions gradually settle into calm.

Regina, having dispensed her comfort, returned to her room. She pulled out her phone and tapped out a quick text. [Lena's not doing great over here. Oliver doesn't even spare her a glance.] Once the message was sent, she went about her night as if nothing had happened, washing up before slipping into bed.

After her evening shower, Josefina was just stepping out when there was a knock at the door. She swung it open and found Hattie stepping inside. "Josie, I thought you might still be up and wanted to check on you."

cherished any chance to chat a bit more with Hattie. There were things she

said, "Josie, how are things going with Oliver? I can tell he's quite taken with you. As long as he treats you right and you're happy, we can welcome

down. "Oliver and I are

kind of friends might that

fell silent, prompting Hattie to continue, "Since you've been back home, is there anything around the house you'd like to change? Speak up, darling. I'm open

a university soon, right? Have you thought about where you want to apply?" Part of Hattie's visit was to gauge whether Josefina was considering staying in Westwood or venturing to a distant school.

Josefina understood the cautious hope in Hattie's eyes. She looked up, meeting Hattie's gaze with a smile.

joy, barely containing her elation. "Really? Josie, are you

nodded, and Hattie's joy