Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Their eyes locked, a silent understanding passing between them. With Oliver in the picture, Rowan was sidelined. The company needed Oliver far more.

The two families sat down for dinner around a spacious table that still had empty seats. Course after course was served in a fusion of Eastern and Western cuisine.

Grandpa Brandon spoke up, "Josie, I heard from your granddad that you're quite fond of swings. Well, Oliver here went and built a few in his garden back home. Even got the dressing room spruced up. You should drop by his place sometime when you're free."

Hattie and Garrett were stunned. Could he be any more blunt?

Grandpa Brandon continued, "Garrett, Hattie, don't be too taken aback. I dote on Josie as if she were my own granddaughter. If I spoil her with a few gifts, it's all normal. After all, who wouldn't find Josie utterly charming?"

Oliver chimed in, "Josie is indeed very likeable."

beginning to see that Oliver's agreement to celebrate Rowan's birthday had his own motives behind it. Every move he made was calculated. Did he

Josefina sliced into her steak, Oliver took the cutlery from her hands and replaced her plate with one where he

cutting it with finesse, savoring a bite, and following

from the pair, frowned so deeply it looked as if she could trap a fly between her brows. She

the group to the villa's sprawling backyard lawn. "A friend sent over some fireworks. Let's set them off and enjoy the show in light of the festivities," he said. Immediately, Bennett and the

Boom!

a shower of brilliant colors. Each

the sky, spelling out "Josie"

had to admit, Oliver had outdone himself. They couldn't dismiss such a son-in-law.

couple exchanged a look, both thinking Oliver might be a good match, but ultimately, it was up to

rising anger. Even as others snapped photos with their phones,

thought her comment would go unnoticed, but when she

cold as he stated, "Whose birthday it is doesn't