Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

"I need to know," Ruby said earnestly and firmly.

Lauren's expression shifted ever so slightly, her brows knitting together in a frown. "Ruby, let the past stay buried. There's no point in digging it up. All you need to remember is that you're Billy's daughter, the daughter of the Antonio family, and that's that."

Lauren settled back down, closing her eyes to shut out any further questions. But this only fueled Ruby's curiosity. Was there something so taboo about her own identity? Could it be that Lauren didn't even know the identity of her biological father?

Restless, Ruby lay on the other side of the immense bed, her gaze dark and stormy. Why could Josefina uncover her true parents, and not her?

She knew she was not the legitimate the daughter of the Antonio family.

Robert had taken it upon himself to prepare a feast, presenting a platter of Gnocchi at the table. Lena eyed the plump Gnocchi, her mouth watering despite herself.

As Lena reached for her fork, Robert's cheery voice rang out, "Josie, you've been working so hard lately. Try the Gnocchi Grandpa made-was planning to make it for dinner, but I feared you might be too busy to join us. Gnocchi for breakfast, what do you say?"

That hit the spot.

have gone

And thank you for the gift you gave me. I cherish it

Lena was taken aback. What gift had Josefina given Robert

Lena inquired softly, "What gift did you give Grandpa, Josie?

show, right? True respect for your elders isn't just talk. It's about actions. Isn't that right, Lena?" Lena's face flushed with embarrassment.

sweet smile, "You're right, Grandpa. I'll take a leaf

up. "These are delicious, Grandpa. You've really got a knack for this." Garrett and Hattie also took a taste, nodding in approval of the familiar flavor only Robert could perfect. Lena tried one herself and had to admit it was tasty. "Grandpa, I had no idea your

Robert hadn't cooked for Josefina today, Lena wouldn't have

all, she was the girl he'd watched grow up-added, "It's not just you, Lena. It's been years since I've had the pleasure

quiet, focusing on his

through immediately, "Ms. Josefina, you need to get

replied

calm, she announced, "I have to run. You all enjoy your breakfast." Without

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