Blind date turned proposal (Josie and Dexter)

Following the sound of the door shutting gently behind her, Josie made her way out of the seclusion of the small room.

As she had anticipated, Mark was still vigilant, his eyes, aged yet observant, locked onto her. A wave of guilt washed over Josie, prompting her to unconsciously massage the back of her neck as she questioned, "What's with that look?"

"Had an argument?"

His understanding was clear without further explanation.

With a sense of resignation, Josie pulled up a chair and took a seat, admitting, "You could say that."

Mark's gaze carried a silent warning as he broached a sensitive topic, "He sought me out to discuss the matter of the child."

"What did he say?"

"What do you think?"

At a loss, Josie was aware that Dexter held her opinions in high regard, yet she hadn't anticipated he would take the initiative to consult Mark directly.

"I asked him three crucial questions, do you want to know?"

"Just go ahead," she encouraged, her curiosity piqued.

"How should we address the child's surname with the Russell family if he desires reconciliation with you?" In the event of reconciliation, how should he refer to you? As Josie, or perhaps Liana? And if all decisions have been made by you two, then how should the child face everything in Wavery?"

The inevitable revelation of Josie's identity was sure to stir a whirlwind of controversy. These questions undeniably left her searching for answers.

She averted her eyes, inquiring softly, "What was his response?"

Mark offered her a look filled with a mixture of sighs and a hint of resignation.

"Maybe to your mother and me, we appear somewhat traditional and disconnected, but Josie, your retention of the Warren surname was a gesture of our leniency. The decision to give your child the Olsen surname was not for our benefit, but for yours."

With a profound emphasis, Mark conveyed his concern, "In the coming years, upon my departure from this world, the Olsen family will lack its pillar. Your path will not be easy, irrespective of your desire to remain or leave. Tranquility will elude you, given your ties to the Olsen bloodline. Some people will relentlessly pursue you!"

Josie's understanding deepened upon hearing his earnest words, and the mention of his eventual passing stirred an unexpected surge of emotion within her.

"Do you realize," Mark continued, "the underlying dangers beneath our family's calm facade?"

His choice of words was notably astute.

With a significant look, Mark added, "When you find the opportunity, I would like to meet the child."

Caught off guard by the request, Josie hesitated, "S-She's a shy kid."

"What is the issue? I am hardly a fearsome creature; simply bring her to me."

"That's not what I meant..."

Acknowledging Mark's concession, Josie nodded in understanding, then recalled another question, "What were Dexter's answers to those inquiries?"

Under the dim light, Mark's expression was one of resignation. "You should ask him directly."

By the time Josie arrived at the

Russell Mansion, the day had transitioned into a sun-drenched afternoon, characteristic of the. autumn season. The air was alive with the persistent songs of autumn cicadas nestled in the trees.

She was escorted to the inner quarters by an attendant who

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informed her, "Mr. Russell has awaiting your arrival for quite a white."

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Navigating the corridor, Josie paused by a window lattice, catching a glimpse of a figure partially obscured.

All that could be seen was a fragment of Dexter's silhouette, deeply absorbed in the task of tending to the flora.

An unexpected voice broke the silence from the opposite side. "Mr. Russell, I was wrong!"

Josie's curiosity was piqued, prompting her to edge closer for a clearer view.

Is that... Preston?

The attendant, taken aback, remarked, "Ah, it's Mr. Kaufman who has come."

Josie gestured for her to leave.

Preston, positioned on the ground in a kneel of profound respect, was visibly shaken, engulfed by a palpable sense of dread. Dexter remained silent, leaving Larry, who stood by, to express a sigh of exasperation. "Mr. Kaufman, this is unbecoming."