Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Chapter 116

“Grandpa Brandon, you’re too kind, really. I’ve got a closet bursting at the seams with outfits - I can’t possibly wear them all in one summer, even if I switched up daily.”

Brandon pondered for a moment before saying, “I heard you’re fond of Gideon’s artwork. How about I get you a few more pieces?”

Josefina sighed. “Really, Grandpa Brandon, it’s not necessary.”

If Brandon placed the order, Josefina had to pick up her brush. She thought, “Give me a break, please.”

Calix, fearing Brandon would hijack his role as the art benefactor, quickly said, “Grandpa Brandon, my sister loves the paintings I pick out for her. If you take this joy from me, what am I left with? It’s hard enough as it is.”

Brandon chuckled, “Calix, my boy, I won’t steal your job, okay?”

“Thanks, Grandpa Brandon. You’re the best.”

The family’s laughter and warmth cast a shadow over Lena’s heart.

Just then, Brandon’s gaze landed on Lena. “Lena, you’re not getting any younger. Didn’t find love on campus? Want me to set you up with someone?”

Could it be that Brandon intended to play matchmaker with Oliver for her?

Flushing, Lena murmured, “Grandpa Brandon, I... I’ve already got someone in mind...”

Brandon seemed pleasantly surprised, then beamed, “Good for you, Lena! Go after your heart’s desire. Just like Oliver there, chasing after Josie with all he’s got!”

Oliver affirmed, “I’ll do my best.”

Lena was speechless. Damn it, was this old man playing games with her?

Lena’s complexion soured. She was irate, ready to burst with expletives.

But Brandon appeared oblivious to her mood and went on, “Lena, you’re looking a bit peaked. Is it that the guy’s giving you the cold shoulder? Oh, my dear, there are plenty of fish in the sea, so why pine over one?”

Lena couldn’t bear it any longer! She couldn’t bear another word from Brandon.

She had this nagging feeling that Brandon’s comments were a deliberate performance for her benefit. He had publicly prodded her to reveal her feelings, then mentioned Oliver’s pursuit of Josefina. In the end, the old man was just too sly for his own good!

Lena’s head throbbed. She wanted out of there, not keen on uttering another word.

Sensing enough was enough, Brandon announced, “It’s getting late. Let’s head back.”

Oliver rose alongside Brandon. Before leaving, Oliver asked Josefina, “What would you like for lunch tomorrow?”

Josefina, feeling everyone’s eyes on her, replied shyly, “You better head home.”

Oliver nodded with a smile and departed with Brandon. NôvelDrama.Org (C) content.

...

In the car, Brandon was brimming with pride. “See, Oliver? I cleared the way for you. Now you can court Josie without any worries.”

“Thanks, Grandpa,” Oliver said, grateful.

Brandon, content in both body and soul, advised, “Now, you’ve got to step up your game. Don’t let a catch like Josie slip through your fingers.”

“I won’t,” Oliver affirmed, nodding.

His phone lit up with a message from George. Oliver opened it to find a single sentence that sent a shiver down his spine. [Oliver, about Ms. Josefina...]