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!"

herself speechless. His assertive stance struck fear

with few neighbors to

of 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 and sharp, fixed on Lena's timid gaze as his lips curled

visibly shaken by Oliver's intimidating stance. "It's just

Hattie with puppy-dog eyes. Her expression was one of deep distress. Hattie had watched Lena grow up, and

Lena's hand. "Oliver's got

was not their real daughter, she had lived as the Harrisons' darling for

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

Josefina. "You're so understanding.

and the conversation moved on as the group returned to the cool of the living room - the outdoors was

quickly offer, “Josie, let me take

Garrett and Hattie were still

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