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!"

assertive stance struck fear in her heart, and she

for Rowan, was isolated, with few neighbors to speak of. It was

awkward situation, Brandon played the peacemaker, "Well, it may be Rowan's birthday, but 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 and sharp, fixed on Lena's timid

stance. "It's just

eyes. Her expression was one of deep distress. Hattie had watched Lena

Lena's hand. "Oliver's got his head on straight; you

was not their real daughter, she had lived as the Harrisons' darling for eighteen years! sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ FɪndNøvel.ɴᴇt

sweet and melodic. "Thank you for your

strained smile, sensing an undercurrent of condescension from Josefina. "You're so understanding. You won't misinterpret my words,"

and the conversation moved on as the group returned to the cool

prompting Oliver to quickly offer,

nod from Josefina, Oliver seized the moment when Garrett and Hattie were still chatting

not wanting to be left behind, trotted up. "Josie, can I hitch a ride with Oliver? My feet

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