Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

The police stepped into the living room, delivering news that sent shockwaves through the air.

Regina had taken her own life. It was a bizarre scene; she had passed in such a silent manner, with no evident wounds on her body.

The autopsy on Regina's body had not yet been performed. The officers had come straight here to inform the Harrison family of the tragedy. Lena was beside herself, gasping in disbelief. "Impossible! How could Regina commit suicide?"

Tears brimmed in Lena's eyes as she clung to Hattie. "Mom, how could she do it?"

Hattie gently patted her hand, her voice soft but laced with her own confusion. "I'm as baffled as you are, Lena. Why would Regina take her life?"

Josefina stood up, her posture commanding attention. "No obvious wounds, yet she's dead. If she's gone, there's definitely something fishy. We need a thorough investigation." "We're working on it," the officer replied.

Hattie let out a heavy sigh. She had never expected Regina's end to come like this. She had wanted Regina to face the music, not to dance with death.

After the police had explained the situation and departed, Hattie turned to Josefina. "Josie, you head to your competition. I'll look into Regina's case further."

Josefina nodded, "Alright, I'll leave now." She got into her car, a sleek machine that responded to her touch. Slipping on her Bluetooth headset, she revved the engine and made a call. "Regina is dead, and the circumstances are downright eerie. Investigate. We need to uncover the real cause of her death."

With no more words, she ended the call. Today was pivotal the day of the competition.

The competition venue was abuzz with activity, everyone immersed in their tasks.

Josefina had picked up Alex for the event. Alex mumbled as they walked in together, "Ms. Josefina, you didn't have to pick me up. I could've come alone. It's out of your way and such a hassle." Josefina halted, ensuring they were alone before fixing her piercing gaze on Alex. Her voice was stern, a mix of advice and caution. "Remember, the stage is a battlefield. Don't accept water from strangers, and don't drink from a bottle twice. Stick to your own food, or better yet, don't eat at all. Compete on an empty stomach, and afterwards, you can feast to your heart's content."

Alex blinked, taken aback. "Ms. Josefina, you mean..."

"Just be careful," she continued onward, her heels clicking powerfully against the floor. Tall, slender, and stunning, she was the epitome of poise.

Watching Josefina's graceful departure, Alex couldn't shake the feeling that somehow, she knew the ins and outs of the game too well.

Was it possible that Ms. Josefina had once competed herself? How could she know so much?

Alex hurried to keep pace, fearing he'd fall behind.

Once in their designated area, Josefina directed her team with efficiency and precision.

Holly offered Alex a bottle of milk. "Hey, you had breakfast yet? I've got some milk here. Want some?"

Remembering Josefina's instructions, Alex declined politely. "Thanks, Holly, but I had a big breakfast. You have it."

Holly chuckled and set the bottle aside. "Sure thing. It's there if you change your mind."

Ruby arrived with her parents, Billy and Lauren, in tow.

As Lauren stepped into the competitive atmosphere, her eyes sparkled with excitement. "Ruby, once you win that trophy, I'll wear your designs every day. Imagine the prestige."

Billy saw dollar signs. A win here could mean a future filled with wealth. No more groveling for investments, and no more schmoozing until it hurt. With a smile of pure joy, he nodded at Ruby. "Our future's in your hands, kiddo."