Blind date turned proposal (Josie and Dexter)

After sorting out the day's tasks, Josie didn't linger at the company. Even the assistant was surprised. "You're known for your diligence. It's a surprise to see you leave early. Is there an emergency?" Josie managed a smile. "Yeah, something's up. What diligence are you talking about? I just hope the project can conclude sooner so that everyone can get their dividends earlier." The assistant smiled.

Alice's reputation was already well-established internationally. Yet, who would have thought she was such a hard worker? If she hadn't been managing this project, it certainly wouldn't have wrapped up so quickly.

Her success was well-deserved.

When Josie returned to the Olsen Residence and saw a Mercedes AMG G 63 parked in the courtyard, a sense of foreboding gnawed at her.

As expected, Zach was leaning by the door when she entered, sizing her up with a face full of mockery.

Josie pretended not to notice him and tried to walk past him, but he blocked her way by extending his leg.

She lifted her gaze to meet his. "What do you want?"

"Those who look down on the Olsen family don't deserve to cross our threshold."

Looks like Zach has already found out. Well, it figures. Once Claudia finds out, Laura won't have to hide it anymore.

"Move aside," Josie said.

Zach refused to budge and glared at her, saying evilly, "I'll only let you in if you're here to pack up and leave."

Josie took a deep breath.

"Goodness, you two. You're not a child anymore! Why are you still acting childishly? Mr. Zach, please let your sister in." The housekeeper who emerged from the kitchen and saw that was the first to raise her voice.

Josie glanced over, recognizing her as the housekeeper whom Dexter planted in the Olsen Residence. She was good at defusing the situation.

The housekeeper's words drew Claudia's attention. Draped in a shawl, she slowly descended the stairs. "Zach."

Zach shot Josie a glare before reluctantly retracting his leg.

Josie curved her lips into a smirk while Zach walked away swiftly. "She's not my sister."

"Mr. Zach, you're right. I don't want to be your sister either," Josie responded.

Claudia's expression darkened as she quickened her pace.

"Why did you come back then?" Zach yelled.

"Enough! Watch your attitude!" Mark roared, putting an end to the argument when he emerged from the study upon hearing the commotion. As he turned to Josie, he put on a gentle expression. "You're back, Leanne. Did something at the company keep you from coming home yesterday?"

He wore an amicable and ingratiating smile, and Josie couldn't bring herself to give him attitude. Glancing at Claudia, she reluctantly responded, "Yeah.”

"Are you tired? Why don't you take a rest? I'll call you when it's time for dinner."

"I returned to tell you guys something."

Claudia's body went rigid as she stared at Josie, silently warning her against saying disrespectful things.

Laura rose from the couch. "What is it? You look so serious."

Apart from Mark, who wore an expression of anticipation, everyone else was on edge.

Glancing around, Josie deliberately took her time before saying, "I'm here to tell you guys the project is almost over, and it's time for me to leave the Olsen Residence. Laura, help me process the paperwork when you have time."

Oh, that's what she wants to say? Mark breathed a sigh of relief and, with a smile, took his seat at the head of the table. "You gave me quite a scare. Come, have some coffee. These coffee beans just arrived yesterday. You'll love it."

Laura smiled. "That's not a problem, Leanne. The project's smooth progress goes to show your outstanding capabilities."

Josie remained still, meeting Claudia's worried gaze. "I want to visit my father. Shall we go together?" she suggested.

The word "father" made Mark's smile bitter.

Claudia tightened her shawl around her. "Sure."