Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess novel Chapter 255

Under the scrutinizing gazes of the crowd, Lena felt a knot in her stomach, and her heart pounded against her chest like a drum. How on earth was she supposed to spin this?

With a forced smile, Lena looked at the few around her and ventured, “I just thought, since it’s Mr. Rowan’s birthday, if the fireworks spelled out my sister’s name, some folks might gossip and tarnish her reputation.”

That explanation might just pass muster. “I just didn’t want anyone speaking ill of my sister. What harm could I possibly wish for?” Lena said. Her voice was laced with a touch of grievance.

If Oliver had chosen to include Josefina’s name in the pyrotechnic display, surely he’d considered this very angle. Unperturbed, Oliver retorted, “He’s having his birthday, and I’m setting off my fireworks. What’s the big deal? We’re out here in the boonies — who’s going to see?”

Lena felt dwarfed by Oliver’s commanding presence. Her discomfort was palpable.

Again, Oliver’s voice rang out, “If anyone’s got a beef with that, I’m all ears!”

Faced with his dominance, Lena found herself speechless. His assertive stance struck fear in her heart, and she dared not contradict him.

Indeed, the villa, meant as a gilded cage for Rowan, was isolated, with few neighbors to speak of. It was an unusual place for the average Joe to venture.

In light of the awkward situation, Brandon played the peacemaker, “Well, it may be Rowan’s birthday, but it’s not out of line for him to charm his future daughter-in-law with a few surprises for Josie, is it?”

Oliver’s eyes, mocking and sharp, fixed on Lena’s timid gaze as his lips curled into a sardonic smirk. “Does that satisfy you, Miss Lena?”

Lena recoiled, visibly shaken by Oliver’s intimidating stance. “It’s just me being overly concerned. I meant no harm...”

Lena turned to Hattie with puppy-dog eyes. Her expression was one of deep distress. Hattie had watched Lena grow up, and couldn’t stand to see her this upset.

“You’re just a bit too worried, Lena,” Hattie soothed, taking Lena’s hand. “Oliver’s got his head on straight; you don’t have to fret so much.”

Lena felt a sting, convinced that Hattie’s loyalties lay with Josefina, her own flesh and blood. Perhaps she already forgot the child raised by the Harrison family. Even if she was not their real daughter, she had lived as the Harrisons’ darling for eighteen years!