Hattie was chopping carrots when her cell phone jangled with a familiar tune. It was Josefina calling. “Hey Josie, what time are you heading back?”
There was a hint of awkwardness in Josefina’s voice as she replied, “Mom, a friend of mine is back in town, and I’ve got to show her around tonight, so I won’t be able to make it for dinner.”
After Hattie exchanged a glance with Garrett, her expression remained free of any displeasure. With an indulgent smile, she said, “Josie, you go out and have a fantastic dinner with your friend. Short on cash? Let me wire you an extra ten million. Eat whatever you want, shop to your heart’s content.”
Garrett chimed in supportively, “Your mom’s right. Treat your friend to a nice meal. Don’t worry about the check. If you need more, I can transfer another ten million. Splurge a little.”
Josefina had just wanted to let them know she wouldn’t be home for dinner, not to ask for money. “Mom, Dad, I have money. You’ve already given me plenty, and I haven’t even spent it.”
She hadn’t even begun to spend her own funds, let alone think about touching the Harrison family’s generosity.
Hattie insisted, “Josie, since it’s your friend, don’t hold back on spending, alright?”
Garrett added, “Josie, you go ahead and catch up with your friend. We won’t keep you. Just be safe out there. And if you end up having a couple of drinks, shoot us a message, and I’ll send the driver to pick you up. Remember, no drinking and driving; safety first.”
Listening to their prattling concern, Josefina felt far from annoyed; she actually cherished it. With a laugh, Josefina assured them, “Got it.”
Hattie lowered her voice, “You're going on a bit much, don’t you think? Let’s not keep Josie.”
Then, she raised her voice with that same doting tone, “Alright, Josie, we’ll let you go. Have fun.”
After hanging up, Hattie pondered, “Do you think we’re being too naggy? Will Josie get annoyed?”
Garrett shrugged, “I doubt it.”
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess