Yosef was genuinely enraged. His sharp words seemed to jolt Jethro back to his senses. “Bro…”
“Be quiet,” Yosef cut him off. “One more word, and you’ll face the family punishment.”
This was utterly ridiculous. He was sitting right there, and that woman had dared to sling such filth. And Jethro had actually believed her.
Yosef wasn't sure if he was more furious with Jethro for his stupidity or with that conniving woman who was still playing the victim. He glared at them. “Apologize to Henrietta. Both of you.”
Under the weight of Yosef's authority, Jethro couldn’t resist. He turned to Henrietta. “Henrietta, I’m sorry.”
Artina, seeing Yosef’s unabated fury, stopped her sniffling and quickly added, “Henrietta, I’m so sorry.”
Henrietta’s face was now a cool mask. She ignored her. She didn't even look at Jethro. Instead, she turned to Yosef and said flatly, “I refuse.”
Yosef looked at her.
"A jar of candy every day?" Henrietta continued. "I refuse. I don't have time for that."
Yosef took her hand. “I understand.”
Just then, Zelina arrived, oblivious to the conflict that had just transpired. Her face lit up the moment she saw Henrietta. “Henrietta, you’re here!” she exclaimed happily, walking over.
Henrietta quickly composed herself, standing up with a polite smile. "Mom."
“Please, sit down.” Zelina said, taking her hand affectionately.
Ryland arrived as well, addressing his sons. "Yosef, Jethro, come have some coffee with me."
The brothers greeted him in unison. "Dad."
Ryland was clearly in high spirits. "Come on, let's head to the study. Dinner won't be ready for a little while."
Yosef didn't get up right away. He looked at Henrietta and said, "You stay and chat with Mom. I'll go join Dad."
Henrietta nodded. Yosef watched her for a moment before leaning close to her ear. "Are you angry?"
Henrietta froze for a second, then shook her head.
Yosef straightened up, gently ruffling her hair, and then rose to his feet. "I'm heading to the study."
"Okay," Henrietta nodded.
As Yosef walked away, Calvert hurried to follow.
“Okay,” Henrietta said.
Zelina smiled again. “A boy and a girl would be perfect.”
Henrietta couldn’t help but laugh softly. She understood completely. Yosef would be thirty-two next year. It was perfectly natural for his mother to be eager for grandchildren, especially since Yosef was the eldest son and the pillar of the family.
Henrietta smiled. “Of course, whatever you say.”
Zelina was beaming, unable to contain her delight.
Artina and Leticia were still sitting nearby. When Artina heard Zelina pushing Henrietta to have children, a wave of resentment washed over her. What right did that old hag have to bear Yosef’s children?
And giving Jethro candy? How shameless! It was obvious she was trying to get close to Jethro after hearing their story. And Yosef, completely fooled by her, had gotten so angry on her behalf.
Artina seethed internally.
Just then, Leticia turned to Artina. “Tell me more,” she prompted. “Were there any other fun stories from when you were filming?”
Leticia had taken a real liking to Artina.

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