"He's my hero, my boss! Say one more bad word about him, and I'll make sure you regret it!" Luke exclaimed with a cheeky grin, twirling his keys as he whistled his way out. Leah was left fuming, slamming her hand on the table in frustration. That Luke sure knew how to push her buttons.
...
Josefina made her way back to Oliver's place. As soon as Linden heard she was back, he got the staff to whip up dinner.
The aroma of chicken soup wafted through the room, and every dish on the table looked as good as it smelled. Josefina took a sip of the soup, its taste bringing back memories of the ones she enjoyed at the Harrison family's home.
"Ma'am, these chickens are from our own coop. We can have fresh soup ready for you whenever you crave it," Linden said with pride.
"You guys are raising chickens here?" Josefina asked, her interest piqued.
"Yes, ma'am. Anytime you want some soup, just give us a shout. We’re also growing a bunch of veggies. Come spring, we’re planting fruit trees to pretty up the garden and give us some tasty treats," Linden explained.
"Is all this Oliver's doing?" she asked with a grin.
Linden chuckled warmly. "Mr. Oliver wanted everything tailored to your liking. Your happiness means the world to him."
Josefina felt a warm glow of affection.
Seeing her smile, Linden felt a sense of fulfillment too. He had spent his life looking after the estate and Oliver, always hoping Oliver would find his own joy. Now that he was married, Linden's wish had come true, and he was genuinely happy for Oliver.
"Ma'am, if there's anything you need, just say the word. You're the lady of the house, and what you want is what Mr. Oliver wants. We're all here to ensure you're comfortable."
"Thanks, Linden. I'm good for now," Josefina replied.
With a respectful nod, Linden quietly left the dining room.
Josefina continued her meal, but soon her stomach started to protest. She dashed to the bathroom, feeling terribly queasy.
After splashing some warm water on her face, she caught a glimpse of her pale reflection in the mirror.
Just then, Oliver's voice came from outside.
"Oliver, you look like you're about to read me a bedtime story," she teased.
Oliver paused, studying her face. "Josie, is there something you're not telling me?"
"Honestly, there's nothing," Josefina murmured, nestling into his shoulder, feeling both cozy and worn out.
"How about we take a break tomorrow? I’ll take you somewhere fun," he suggested.
"Aren’t you busy? With all you've got going on, you can't let anyone take advantage of your absence," she cautioned, looking up at him with bright eyes.
Oliver leaned down, planting a gentle kiss on the corner of her lips.
Josefina quickly turned her head, playfully pushing him away.
Oliver looked puzzled. "Josie, are you avoiding me?"

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