Josie took Garrett's wrist between her fingers, feeling for the rhythm of life pulsing under his skin. "I've got just the thing for you," she said with a confident smile. "A bottle of herbal pills, perfect for cooling down and calming the storm inside. These are all-natural and way safer than your regular pharmaceuticals." She fished the bottle out of her bag and handed it to Garrett.
Lena's forehead creased in concern but quickly smoothed it away with a forced smile. "Josie, did you whip those up yourself? They haven't been through clinical trials, you know. Isn't that kind of risky?"
Josie's smile broadened. "Who told you they haven't been tested? The big pharmacy at your hospital stocks them, doesn't it?"
Lena’s frown returned, deeper this time. She hadn't been aware of that.
"And it's not just your hospital. Check out some of the drugstores around town if you don't believe me," Josie added, her voice carrying a note of triumph.
Garrett chuckled. "Josie, you're something else. Way ahead of your three brothers. You care about us and take care of our health—seriously impressive!"
Hattie, sitting nearby, reached out a hand. "Josie, could you check me out, too? My sleep's been all over the place these past few nights."
Josie moved to sit by Hattie and took her pulse, their features mirroring each other's. Hattie's gaze was soft and indulgent as she watched her daughter.
Lena, sitting close by, saw the exchange in vivid detail. Blood ties were undeniable, she thought. There was a clear bias.
Seated apart, Lena watched the two with a growing bitterness, which she hastily concealed when Josie's eyes flicked her way, replacing it with a smile.
Josefina suddenly offered, "Let me take a look at you, too, Lena."
Lena shook her head vehemently, the very thought of Josie examining her sending waves of panic through her. "I just had a check-up yesterday. No need to trouble yourself, Josie," Lena said, her hands nervously entwined as if to ward off any insistence.
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