Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Josefina gripped his large hand, and Oliver's action came to an abrupt halt.

The corners of her lips shone faintly in the dim light, her eyes wide with a startled gaze as she looked up at him, "What are you planning to do?"

Oliver gazed back at her, a low chuckle escaping his lips, "What's got you so scared?"

Words failed Josefina as she stuttered, unable to voice her fears.

With a gentle smile, Oliver tousled her hair, teasing, "Afraid I'll gobble you up?"

How could Josefina not be frightened? When Oliver got that mischievous twinkle in his eye, she truly felt a chill. "I need to get back." She flung open the car door and bolted like a rabbit on the run. Josefina dashed into the yard. She walked alone, the evening breeze cooling her flushed skin.

Because of the high temperature, she still felt overheated.

As she continued, the figure of Lena appeared ahead.

Lena, with a scrutinizing look, took note of Josefina's flushed cheeks and smudged lipstick, her eyes betraying a trace of disdain. Arms crossed, she taunted, "That lipstick smeared all over doesn't really suit you, does it? Aren't you worried about mom and dad seeing you like this?"

Without missing a beat, Josefina flipped open her compact, touched up her makeup, and retorted without a hint of embarrassment.

tell me you've been pining for me so

at tomorrow's design competition. You better bring your A-game. It'd be a shame to lose, wouldn't it?" Josefina looked at her with incredulity, "You're presenting an

too bizarre to believe. Could Lena

Lena demanded, "What's that supposed to mean, Josefina? Are you looking down on me?

Josefina speculated, "It wouldn't have anything to do with the Harrison family's status, would it? You're not a designer, nor are you

Lena's opportunity indeed stemmed from her family connections. The Harrisons had a wide social reach, and after eighteen years as their darling daughter, Lena had her fair

not mistaken,

Harrison clan to witness Josefina's

all, it is your competition. As family, we'll undoubtedly be there to support you. Just don't disappoint mom and

I won't," Josefina replied confidently as

laughed derisively, "We'll

Garrett deep in discussion. Upon her arrival, they rushed over, beaming at Josefina. "Josie, we were thinking of coming to your

already? They wouldn't let this opportunity slip by. Garrett and Hattie resolved to show more support

a smile, Josefina

some rest. I've arranged for a beautician to come over. She's upstairs with

Here

like the idea?" Hattie

her, "I love