Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess novel Chapter 314

Erica nodded, pulling out her sketches and going over them with Ruby, detail by detail. She hoped Ruby would knock 'em dead at the competition and that she, Erica, would bag the final payment.

There they sat, two minds each playing their own game of chess, plotting and planning.

...

As Josefina clocked out, the familiar car was parked just where she left it. The figure inside, still as recognizable as ever.

She slid into the passenger seat with a sigh. "Sorry, can't do dinner tonight. I've gotta prep. The competition's tomorrow."

Oliver didn't seem miffed at the rejection. He'd half-expected the rain check and offered, "I'll take you home then. Tomorrow, we'll celebrate your victory."

Josefina's laughter bubbled up, "How do you know I'll win? I'm not even competing. It's Alex representing the company."

Oliver's voice dropped to that affectionate purr, "In my eyes, you're always top of the podium."

Josefina blushed, her cheeks turning a rosy hue, making her look very sweet. He reached for her hand, but she tugged away, "Let go, would you?"

His grip only tightened, "I can't bear to."

"Here we are," the driver announced, interrupting the lovebirds who seemed glued to their seats. The third wheel to their romance, the driver was full to the brim with their affectionate exchanges. Young love, he mused, was indeed a different breed. They were all wrapped up in each other.

Josefina's blush deepened as she pushed Oliver away and stepped out. Following suit, Oliver got out and ushered her to the front seat.

"How 'bout I take you home, swing by that bakery you love, pick up some of those pastries, and maybe grab some other snacks for the road?"