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!"

dominance, Lena found herself speechless. His assertive stance struck fear in

villa, meant as a gilded cage for Rowan, was isolated, with few neighbors to speak of. It was an unusual place for the average Joe

the 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

"It's just me being overly concerned. I meant

turned to Hattie with puppy-dog eyes. Her expression was one of deep distress. Hattie had watched

a bit too worried, Lena," Hattie soothed, taking Lena's hand. "Oliver's got his head on straight; you

the child raised by the Harrison family. Even if she was not their real daughter, she had

in a demure smile, and her voice was sweet and melodic. "Thank you for your concern, Lena. You're such

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

smiled, saying nothing, and the conversation moved on as the group returned to the cool of the living room - the outdoors was just too

to quickly offer, “Josie,

Garrett and Hattie were still chatting with

I hitch a ride with Oliver? My