Henrietta could actually sympathize with Leticia. Leticia’s dislike stemmed from the belief that Henrietta wasn't good enough for Yosef. It was a classic case of sisterly protectiveness, rooted in a desire to look out for her brother. It was a stark contrast to many wealthy families where siblings were constantly scheming against each other over money and power, leaving little room for genuine affection.
So, Henrietta understood the sentiment, even if it felt like Leticia was just jealous of losing her brother’s affection. In fact, she remembered feeling a similar possessiveness over Quinton when they were children, thinking he was her brother and should only be good to her. It was only after they grew up and understood they weren’t related by blood that she had to suppress those normal sibling instincts to avoid any misunderstandings. It was a process, and she figured this would be one too. They would get there eventually.
Besides, she and Yosef had promised each other a marriage of mutual respect, and a good wife didn't go looking for trouble. She wouldn't pick fights with her husband's siblings, refusing to back down just to prove a point. Not unless they crossed a line that was truly unforgivable. So far, they hadn't. These were just minor squabbles.
Yosef was relieved to see that she wasn't angry. She was being gracious, not making a scene or throwing a tantrum. He felt a sense of deep satisfaction. Choosing the right wife truly was a blessing. A peaceful home life was the foundation for success in everything else.
Henrietta looked at him. "Leticia only has a problem with me because she idolizes you. That's why you're the last person who should be punishing her."
Yosef paused. "Is that so?"
Henrietta nodded. "Yes. She really loves you."
"I understand," Yosef said. "I'll listen to you."
He knew, of course, how much Leticia looked up to him, and he adored her in return. He had just been worried that Henrietta wouldn't understand and would feel hurt. He never expected her to be the one defending Leticia.
Yosef's gaze deepened as he looked at her. He suddenly reached out, pulling her into his arms and tilting her chin up. "Henrietta," he murmured, then kissed her until their breathing grew heavy.
...
Meanwhile, Artina was in Leticia’s room, comforting her and even drying her hair to get on her good side. Leticia was pleased, her mood visibly lifting. It only confirmed her belief that Artina was wonderful.
"Artina, do you think I was wrong?" Leticia asked, using her future sister-in-law's name with a newfound familiarity.
"Of course not," Artina said quickly.
Leticia brightened. "Why do you say that?"
"Yosef is your brother, your real brother," Artina said conspiratorially. "Henrietta… she's just his wife. Marriages can end in divorce, so you never know if they’ll truly be family. But you and Yosef will always be family. Just look at me—I like Jethro, so I make sure to treat you well. If Henrietta really cared about you, would she have just let Yosef carry her away without a single word of concern for you?"
Artina paused for effect. "And isn't she the one who's so obsessed with details? She broke up with Matteo, the movie star, just because he forgot to wish her a happy birthday."

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