Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Under the scrutinizing gazes of the crowd, Lena felt a knot in her stomach, and her heart pounded against her chest like a drum. How on earth was she supposed to spin this?

With a forced smile, Lena looked at the few around her and ventured, "I just thought, since it's Mr. Rowan's birthday, if the fireworks spelled out my sister's name, some folks might gossip and tarnish her reputation."

That explanation might just pass muster. "I just didn't want anyone speaking ill of my sister. What harm could I possibly wish for?" Lena said. Her voice was laced with a touch of grievance.

If Oliver had chosen to include Josefina's name in the pyrotechnic display, surely he'd considered this very angle. Unperturbed, Oliver retorted, "He's having his birthday, and I'm setting off my fireworks. What's the big deal? We're out here in the boonies - who's going to see?"

Lena felt dwarfed by Oliver's commanding presence. Her discomfort was palpable.

Again, Oliver's voice rang out, "If anyone's got a beef with that, I'm all ears!"

stance struck fear in her heart, and she

Rowan, was isolated, with few neighbors to speak of. It was an unusual place for the average

it's not out of line for him to charm his future daughter-in-law with a few surprises for Josie, is it?" Oliver's eyes, mocking

stance. "It's

to Hattie with puppy-dog eyes. Her expression was one of deep distress. Hattie had watched Lena grow up, and couldn't stand to see her this

hand. "Oliver's got his head on straight; you don't have to fret

already forgot the child raised by the Harrison family. Even if she was not their real daughter, she had lived as the Harrisons' darling for eighteen years! sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ FɪndNøvel.ɴᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters

lips lifted in a demure smile, and her voice was sweet and melodic. "Thank you for your concern, Lena.

condescension from Josefina. "You're so understanding. You won't misinterpret my words,"

returned to the

to quickly offer,

seized the moment when Garrett and Hattie were still chatting with Grandpa Brandon

to be left behind, trotted up. "Josie, can I hitch a ride with Oliver? My feet are killing