Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess
Chapter 48

Garrett reluctantly agreed, "Sweetheart, if you don't want to go public, then I will keep your identity under wraps for now. But I've already called your grandpa, and he's coming home this afternoon." Hattie chimed in, "Your grandma and granddad from my side have settled abroad and they'll be flying back in a couple of days to see you. Your three uncles, always jet-setting for work, will come to visit as soon as they can spare a moment."

Josefina hadn't realized her family tree was quite so lush.

Lena watched the family of three, feeling like an outsider, convinced they were all doing it on purpose. Her resentment nearly showed on her face.

With tear-filled eyes, Lena softly said, "Josie, I promise to always be there to help you take care of mom and dad."

Hattie smiled, "As long as you're both healthy and happy, that's all that matters."

The warm atmosphere lightened Josefina's mood considerably. Every day back here was worth it.

"I'm planning to swing by Brandon's place later. I missed the morning checkup, and I've got some free time this afternoon."

Josefina laid out her plans, but Garrett objected, "Honey, you really should rest up at home. Isn't your leg still hurt? Better to stay off it."

Hattie quickly added, "Josie, you should take it easy. Brandon's got doctors at his place. You don't have to go."

Their biggest fear was Josefina going out, possibly facing another kidnapping.

Josefina reassured them with a smile, "I can't stay inside forever, right? Plus, you've hired experienced bodyguards for me. I'll be safe this time."

Eventually, they relented to Josefina's wishes. That's when Lena stepped forward. "Josie, let me accompany you to Brandon's. I've heard about your impressive medical skills, and I'm a doctor too. I'd love to learn from you, is that okay?" It was a perfect chance to make her presence known to the Baldwin family.

Lena played the sweet, innocent card, which usually worked to her advantage. Josefina looked at her and made a quick decision, "I'm just going over to give Brandon a checkup. I've studied alternative medicine. I wouldn't be able to teach you."

Garrett added, "Lena, didn't you take the day off because you were feeling unwell? You should rest up. Health comes first."

Hattie agreed, "Lena, stay home and rest. There's always time to learn, and besides, your sister's training is in a completely different field-it's not something you can pick up in a short time." Lena had no choice but to nod in agreement, "Okay, then."

...

The two bodyguards were imposing figures, one with a scar running down his face. As Josefina stepped out, they greeted her respectfully, "Miss Josefina."

She nodded back, "Hello."

Turning, she said, "I'll be off then."

One guard drove while the other opened the car door for Josefina and took the passenger seat. As the car drove off, Garrett and Hattie were left with a sense of unease.

Lena, seizing the opportunity, approached them, "Mom, dad, it's been several days since Josefina came back. Why hasn't she called you mom and dad yet? It's like she's a stranger."

Hattie, looking in the direction Josefina had gone, spoke softly, "This child has been through a lot. It's not easy to open up her heart so quickly, especially since she doesn't care about money. She wouldn't get close to us just for the sake of a title."

"Your mom's right, Lena. Your sister has had her share of hardships. From now on, at home, try to be more caring towards her."

Lena was so frustrated. Were these two really not under some sort of spell?