When Love Breaks (Josephine)

Just then, Josephine's phone rang. She flashed an apologetic smile to the room before stepping out to answer the call.

"Ms. Dunn," came Mason's crisp voice. "Forbes Group's PR department just called. They're holding the launch event for 'Sky High' the day after tomorrow, and they want you to record a VCR. They're offering a million dollars."

A million dollars? That was a pretty generous offer. But Josephine didn't even pause to consider it. "I'm not doing it."

Mason chuckled softly. "Got it. Also, the interview schedule is finalized. The first round's tomorrow at 10:00 am. Eight candidates. Second round the day after- down to five. We'll pick the male lead on the third day."

Tomorrow? That was fast. "Okay. Make sure you notify Ethan-tell him to be ready." After hanging up, she felt a little conflicted, holding her phone in her hand.

Joe's condition was still unstable. Was it really okay for her to leave for Sunvale? But no matter what, she had to. The film wasn't just about her; too many people were involved to risk a delay.

When she stepped back into the room, the atmosphere had completely shifted. Gone was the easy warmth and laughter. In its place was a stiff, awkward silence.

Joe was slouching near the bed, scrolling his phone like it. Zayn pretended to be busy, tidying things up. Meanwhile, Yvan was eating the pastries she brought like no one was around. The tension was thick enough to chew on.

The second they spotted her, however, all three lit up-like prisoners spotting a parole officer.

"Uncle Joe, I need to head back to Sunvale tomorrow, so I probably won't be able to visit you. But I'll wrap things up quickly and come back as soon as I can."

Joe raised a bushy brow. "Sunvale again? You've been going there a lot. Do you know someone out there?"

"No, I... I've started a small business there," she casually lied through her teeth. "It's still new, so there's a lot to handle."

Joe's eyes flicked immediately to Zayn, narrowing in disapproval. "What's going on with you? You can't even take care of your own wife? You've married her, so you've got to look after her. Yet, you're making her hustle on her own?"

"Uncle Joe, it's not his fault! It was my decision. Honestly, having my own career keeps me grounded. Staying at home all the time would make me lose touch with the world," she hurriedly explained.

Joe grumbled but relented with a nod. He was silent for a moment

don't you help me manage the company in Sunvale? It's a decent-sized operation. It's

before saying out of the blue net

overwhelm you. It'd be a venet

reputable but manageable. It won't

experience."

Zayn stiffened. Even he had never been allowed near that company. Yet, he was offering it to Josephine? She had no experience-what was he thinking?

Josephine smiled softly and shook her head. "Uncle Joe, you flatter me. I wouldn't know the first thing about running a company. My little ventures are one thing, but a whole corporation? No, thank you.

"Besides, if I really wanted to ruin a company, my dad has several that I could drive into the ground. Yet, I can't even be bothered."

Joe burst into a hearty laugh. "That's true. Your father often calls me to complain that you don't help him. I'll hold onto it for now. If you ever feel like trying your hand at it, let me know, and it'll be all yours."

"Thank you, Uncle Joe." It didn't matter if he truly meant it or was just indulging her. He was being thoughtful-and that, in this family, was worth more than gold.

Josephine stayed with Joe for a little

longer. But as soon as he became tired, she immediately rose to her feet. "I'll get going now, Uncle Joe Please take care of yourself these next few days. If you want anything to eat or drink, just let Zayn and Yan know.

"Don't be shy-make them do whatever you want. I'll be back soon to keep you company."

Joe's lips quirked into a smile. "We've got a deal, then. Don't you dare vanish on this old man."

"I won't. Get some rest now, Uncle Joe." Josephine helped him lie down and straightened the blankets before leaving the room with Zayn and Yvan.

Not wanting to go in the elevator with them, she said, "You two go ahead. I need to make a call." She then turned and headed for the stairs. But barely had she descended a few steps when the door behind her swung open.