Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Ellory chuckled back, "You know, I was just talking to Walter, and he mentioned how Josefina is your own flesh and blood. Hattie, that girl of yours, she's a real whiz in the medical field. Last time she swung by, she was a godsend. Honestly, if I could, I'd snatch her up to be a professor at the hospital in a heartbeat."

Hattie's expression finally softened a bit. She hadn't expected that after shelling out so much for Lena's education, it would turn out like this.

After a few more words, Hattie hung up the phone. Lena couldn't meet Hattie's gaze, at a loss for words.

"Lena, did you hear what Ellory said?" Hattie asked.

Lena murmured a soft "Mhm," to which Hattie continued, "Look, we Harrisons never expected you to be the backbone of the nation, but you've got to hit the books hard. You said you wanted to be a doctor, so we're funding your medical studies. You wanted an internship, and I had Ellory pull some strings for you. But how can you heal and save lives if you're not up to scratch?"

Ever since Josefina came back, Lena had been restless, fumbling at work and losing her competitions.

With puppy-dog eyes, Lena looked up, tears welling, "Mom, ever since Josie came back, I've been scared you'd kick me out. I can't sleep, I can't focus, and that's why I've messed up so badly." "But we didn't kick you out, Lena." Josefina interjected. "I never said we'd do that. You can't pin the villain's hat on me just because of some unfounded fears."

Hattie chimed in, "Lena, Josie's not like that. With all the wealth the Harrisons have, you think we can't support you? You're the child I've watched grow up. Don't you know how I feel about you?" Lena nodded through her tears, "I know, I'm just afraid of losing you all. Mom, I can't bear to leave you."

Her sobs filled the room, leaving Hattie speechless, only able to sigh in helplessness.

Josefina, used to Lena's tearful drama, was left speechless. Did Lena think tears could cover up everything? How naive. Josefina didn't mind teaching her a life lesson.

"Lena, you've spent more time with the family than I have. You've got deeper bonds with them too. And sure, I'm their biological daughter, but I wouldn't just kick you out. You can't keep using imaginary accusations as an excuse to fall apart. If word gets out, what will people think of the Harrisons?"

Hattie felt a twinge of irritation but seeing Lena's helpless state, she could only sigh. "Lena, if you're unhappy at home, it might be best to move out. Over the years, your father and I have given you properties. Pick whichever suits you, and I'll have someone help you move. It might ease your heart."

Hattie genuinely wanted to help Lena escape her inner turmoil, but the suggestion only made Lena's tears stopped in an instant. Moving out? That was like a death sentence to her!

Lena's weepy disposition was instantly cured. "Mom, I don't want to move out. I just want to stay with you all. I promise I won't bring up these things to bother you or Josie anymore. I'll stop." Lena's entire heart was colder than a snowy day in December.

Just then, the office door swung open, and an unfamiliar man stood at the threshold.