Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Garrett and Hattie exchanged a knowing glance, both sensing there was more to the situation than met the eye.

Hattie's phone buzzed to life with a call from her assistant. "Mrs. Hattie, we've got JoyLife Medicine on the line. They're interested in partnering with our salon for their hair growth serum."

JoyLife Medicine had made quite the name for themselves in recent years. Their pharmaceuticals were renowned for their gentle nature and impressive results. A partnership with JoyLife Medicine could mean a substantial boost for the salon's profits.

"Set up a meeting for tomorrow at 10:30 AM, and I'll take them out for lunch afterwards," Hattie instructed.

"Will do."

After ending the call, Hattie's face lit up with excitement. "Garrett, did you hear that? JoyLife Medicine wants to partner with my salon. This could be a major deal for us."

Garrett took her hand, his eyes brimming with affection as he gazed at her. "Honey, you're amazing."

Hattie couldn't contain her excitement. She declared, "We must celebrate with a gift. I've decided to spoil our little Josie with a few designer handbags tomorrow."

"How about this," Garrett suggested, "since you and Josie are so happy, I'll buy you both some new outfits to wear tomorrow."

The couple shared a smile, then began scrolling through their phones for the perfect outfits for their daughter Josefina.

Josefina's phone rang with a familiar tune, and upon answering, the voice on the other end spoke with utmost respect. "Ms. Josefina, the deal has been sealed. Madame Hattie has agreed to a meeting tomorrow, and I'll have the contract ready. We'll sign it then and cement the partnership."

"Well done. I appreciate your hard work."

"It's an honor to serve you, Ms. Josefina."

Gazing out into the night, Josefina added, "Remember, you're the face of JoyLife Medicine. My identity must remain a secret."

"Rest assured, Ms. Josefina, your identity will remain undisclosed."

Satisfied, Josefina hung up. The Harrison family had showered her with gifts and funds. It was time she reciprocated. She had done the same for the Antonio family once, only to be left without even a shred of familial warmth in the end.

The next morning, Josefina descended the staircase to find Lena devouring a plate of donuts.

Annika cast a disapproving glance at Lena, aware of her station yet unable to resist. "Miss Lena, you almost finish up the donuts. Ms. Josefina enjoys them, so leave some for her, will you?"

Lena, not missing a beat, stuffed another couple into her mouth. "Annika, these donuts are delicious. Can't you make a bigger batch?"

"I wasn't aware you had a taste for them. Regina used to manage your diet, and she never mentioned that you had a fondness for donuts."

Josefina settled at the table, speaking softly, "If you like them, they're all yours. I'll have something else." Josefina was never picky with food; as long as she was full, she was content.

Annika was fuming. Next time, if Josefina didn't come down, she'd bring no food at all.

Hattie descended from upstairs, "Josie, Lena, you two eat. I've got to head to work."

Lena quickly wiped her mouth and stood up, walking towards Hattie, "Mom, why are you leaving so early today?"

"There's a partnership I need to discuss, and I want to get the company's affairs in order early so I can free up my afternoon."

Lena, linking arms with her mother, suggested, "Let me come with you to the office. I've got nothing to do at home, and I can learn from watching you. You're so capable. Why not take me under your wing?" Resigned, Hattie nodded in agreement, "Let's go then."

Turning back to Josefina, Hattie called out, "Josie, I'm heading out."

"Take care, mom." Josefina replied.

As Lena left with Hattie, a glint of determination sparkled in her eyes. Now, it was her time to shine.