Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Chapter 142

After a hectic day at work and just as Josefina was about to call it a day, her phone buzzed. It was her mom, Hattie, on the line.

"Josie, your dad was telling me how you've whipped the company into shape and landed a pretty penny for the fashion house. We've decided to take you out for dinner tonight to celebrate. My girl, you're just so capable, and mama is so proud of you."

A warm flutter stirred in Josefina's chest, bringing her a comforting sense of assurance.

"Josie, we're trying a new place this time, not the usual Gourmet Galaxy. A change of scenery. We'll come and pick you up."

"It’s alright, just text me the time and place, and I'll meet you there."

Hattie knew Josefina preferred to keep a low profile, so she agreed, "Alright, Josie. Don't overwork yourself. Money's endless, but health comes first."

"Thanks, Mom. I'll take care of myself."

The word 'Mom,' filled Hattie with elation.

"Okay, Josie, I won't keep you from clocking out. See you in a bit."

"Sure thing."

After hanging up, Josefina gathered her things and headed out. Her phone rang again; it was Oliver.

"Dinner together?"

Josefina's lips curled into a faint smile. "Family called. Can't make it tonight."

Oliver's tone couldn't hide the disappointment. "What time will you be done? Maybe I could meet you after?" This belongs © NôvelDra/ma.Org.

"No need, I'll head straight home after dinner with the folks."

The line went silent, and Josefina thought the call had dropped. Checking her phone, the call was still on. As she was about to hang up, Oliver spoke.

"Where's dinner?"

"East Garden Restaurant," Josefina replied skeptically.

Oliver's deep, magnetic voice hinted at coincidence. "What are the odds? I'm heading there too."

Josefina suspected he was spinning tales. "I've got to go now, about to drive."

She drove her Mercedes toward the East Garden Restaurant.

...

Lena arrived at the restaurant, a job offer letter burning a hole in her purse, and she was over the moon. Entering the private dining room, she saw her family already gathered and exclaimed, "Grandpa, Mom, Dad, Calix, did you all know something in advance and come here to celebrate?"

Hattie nodded. "Yes, we already know."

Garrett was visibly excited. "The team showed me the numbers. Josie is exceptional. She turned the tide single-handedly and generated immeasurable profit for the company."

Josefina's design sketches had caught significant attention. If she could continue producing such stellar designs, the future earnings could be staggering.

Grandpa Robert beamed. "Josie's got more talent in her little finger than the rest of you combined."

Lena was taken aback. So the celebration wasn't for her? The family didn't know she'd been offered an exceptional position at the hospital?

Sitting down, Lena forced a smile. "Josie is amazing."

Just then, Josefina walked in.

"What's amazing?" She approached, puzzled, and took her seat next to Hattie.

Hattie poured her a glass of water. "Josie, have some water first. We were just singing your praises. You handled the plagiarism crisis brilliantly."

Unruffled by the acclaim, Josefina smiled modestly. "I just did what needed to be done."

Lena remembered something she wanted to share, and slowly, she began to speak.