Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Basking in the evening breeze of a summer's night, Josefina sensed someone to her left. When she glanced in that direction, she caught sight of Oliver, wearing basketball shorts, his upper body bare, fresh from the shower, his hair still dripping wet. The sharp edge of the daytime heat had melted away, leaving a softness unique to the twilight hours.

"Oliver, why aren't you wearing a shirt?" Josefina asked, a touch of embarrassment coloring her voice.

Instead of answering, Oliver walked closer, stopping by the railing that separated their balconies. His peachy eyes twinkled with indulgent amusement. "Should I be wearing one in my own room?" "Suit yourself," Josefina retorted, turning back to her own space.

Oliver chuckled softly to himself and retreated indoors.

As Josefina grabbed her pajamas, preparing for her own shower, there was a knock at the door. Opening it, she found Oliver dressed in his sleepwear, holding something in his hand. His usually crisp features were softened by a rare warmth that seemed reserved just for her.

body wash, she asked, "Oliver,

Remember the surprise I mentioned during dinner?" Sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ FindNʘᴠᴇl.nᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ to

the scroll

wasn't a

blurted out, "How did

unspoken story. "Don't you like it?" His expectant eyes searched hers, tinged with worry she might reject his gift. Lifting her gaze to meet his, Josefina smiled. "I

over the gift. He had never been one to doubt himself like this before. But

the painted portrait of Josefina. "I commissioned Gideon for

Gideon had met Josefina himself. Every little gesture and smile seemed to bring her to

table, gazing at her self-portrait while listening to Oliver praise Gideon's work. Being complimented so openly made her blush with modest pride. She attempted to maintain her composure and