Blind date turned proposal (Josie and Dexter) novel Chapter 1182

Arnold offered a smile that seemed more like a veiled threat than a friendly gesture, “I just caught a glimpse of your little one. As adorable as the photos suggested, with eyes that mirror yours.”

The words struck Josie as an unmistakable threat, igniting a fierce glare from her as she muttered under her breath, “Dare to lay a finger on her, and you'll regret it.”

Arnold, however, appeared to ignore her words, continuing with an air of entitlement, “Given the family ties, she really ought to be calling me 'mister.' I've been back on home turf for a while, so it's high time I presented her with a proper welcome gift. Lead the way; I want to meet her.”

Downstairs, Laura was caught up in conversation with Grape when Josie obstructed Arnold's view. With a determined tone, she addressed him, “Arnold, the child has done nothing wrong. If you've got a beef with anyone, take it up with me. Leave my child out of your machinations.”

Her bravery seemed to envelop her with the aura of motherhood. Arnold paused, a hint of reminiscence in his gaze, before abruptly changing the subject, “You were but a little girl when we first crossed paths.”

Josie turned away, refusing to engage further in this unsettling dialogue. As she began her descent down the stairs, Arnold couldn't help but probe about a sensitive topic, “You haven't spoken to Dexter about that incident, have you?”

He was alluding to the unnerving episode involving Vipera.

Josie pressed her lips tightly together before replying with a simple, “No.”

“That's probably for the best,” he noted.

Turning back toward him, Josie implored with a sense of desperation, “Promise me something. Once all of this is over, you'll keep supplying the medicine.”

Arnold's response was delivered with a carefree smile, “Of course, no problem at all.”

All the way home, Josie couldn't shake off the unease that clung to her following Arnold's unexpected appearance.

“Mommy, you seem distant. What's on your mind? I've been trying to get your attention,” Grape expressed, her face etching a look of slight distress as she sought comfort in her mother's embrace.

“Sorry, Grape. Would you mind repeating what you just said?” Josie requested, making an effort to shake off her worries and adopt a more tender demeanor.

“I was saying how much I really liked Aunt Laura. She's always been so nice to me.”

Josie let out a soft chuckle, “And what about Ms. Whiteford? Don't you care for her as much anymore?”

“I do hold a special place for Ms. Whiteford, but she hardly ever visits or spends time with me,” Grape responded.