Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess novel Chapter 146

Oliver's gaze steadfastly avoided Lena, fixating instead on Josefina. "Josie, I need a word with you. How about we step outside to talk? Okay with you?" He sought Josefina's consent with such genuine gazes that it seemed impossible to say no.

Noticing her family members nearby, Josefina nodded in agreement. Clearly, if Oliver wanted to talk outside, it was a matter that wasn't for the family's ears.

Josefina followed Oliver out, leaving Calix gaping in disbelief. As Calix was about to step forward, Grandpa Robert's hand clamped down on his arm. "Cal, what are you planning?"

Calix blurted out, "Gramps, can't you see? Oliver's eyeing my sister."

Grandpa Robert replied with a knowing tone, "You think I'm blind?"

Calix was confounded. So, did Grandpa actually approve of Josie getting involved with Oliver?

Calix objected, "Gramps, I'll never stand for Oliver as my brother-in-law. Just look at him, he always wears a stern expression. And his tactics can be quite ruthless. My sister's delicate as a daisy - how's she going to bear his rough handling?"

The room fell into an awkward silence. There's speaking your mind, and then there's talking nonsense.

Hattie interjected, "Calix, your sister's just discussing business with Oliver. You're making it sound like she's head over heels. I'm telling you, if you don't buckle down and get serious, you'll be back here running the family business."

Garrett chimed in, "Your older brothers are soaring high, Cal. It's time you came home and helped out. Drop that dream of being an artist. Do you think you're the next Gideon with his astounding talent?"

Grandpa Robert added his bit, "Cal, look at Josie. She just took over the company and already she's turned the tables. As her brother, can't you make a bit of an effort?"

Feeling cornered by the family's nagging, Calix made a quick exit.

Lena watched from the sidelines, her resentment towards Josefina growing by the minute. Ever since Josefina's return, her ability to outshine everyone made Lena fear for her own place in the Harrison household.