Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess novel Chapter 322

Marina, with an air of arrogance, remained silent, not initiating any conversation. Lauren took the initiative to speak up for Ruby. "Ms. Marina, you're here to cheer for Ruby, aren't you? That's awfully kind of you."

Marina's gaze swept past Lauren without a trace of recognition, making Lauren's blood boil with annoyance.

A frown marred Marina's face, as if speaking to Lauren was the last thing she wanted to do. Xavier, seated nearby, felt the awkward tension thick in the air. He chimed in, attempting to smooth things over. "Lauren, my mom isn't the chatty type. She's here with me today to root for Ruby, nothing more."

Lauren's expression softened slightly, and she nodded with a gracious smile. "That's thoughtful of you."

"The timing couldn't be better. The final round is about to start. Ruby has already won two rounds," Lauren said, her voice heavy with pride.

Marina's lips parted slightly, "Winning two rounds doesn't guarantee first place."

Marina's words stung, igniting Lauren’s desire to lash out. "What's that supposed to mean? Are you mocking our Ruby? How can you be so sure she won't take first place?"

Xavier jumped in to mediate. "Mrs. Lauren, my mom didn't mean it that way. She's just the sort to not count her chickens before they hatch. Please, don't take it to heart."

Lauren was fuming, throwing Marina a glare but found herself without a retort. Without a definitive outcome, any argument with Marina would only leave Lauren vulnerable to ridicule.

Caught between the two women, Xavier felt the heat of the situation, wishing for an escape from the no-win scenario. Two strong-willed women together were like a force of nature.

Ruby, intending to head into the competition, noticed the uneasy atmosphere between Lauren and Marina. She trotted over, her voice sweet and polite. "Marina, thank you for coming to support me. I'll do my best."

Xavier's face lit up with an indulgent smile. "Go get 'em, Ruby."