Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess novel Chapter 480

Garrett's voice was a mix of frustration and determination as he vented about his wayward son. "I'm telling you, it's the honest truth. Reid hasn't shown his face to see Josie yet. What's with that? I'm gonna give him another call. If he doesn't show, he might as well stay away for good."

Hattie was right there with Garrett, a united front. "Call him now," she urged, her voice firm. "If Reid doesn't come home soon, I'm disowning him."

They both caught themselves, wary of frightening Josefina, and decided to send her off to bed.

"Josie, why don't you head on back to sleep, honey? It's late, and you must be worn out," Hattie suggested with a softer tone.

Garrett chimed in, "Josie, get some rest. If there's anything special you want for breakfast, just let Annika know. She's a whiz in the kitchen—can whip up anything you fancy."

Josefina tried to ease their worries. "Mom, Dad, it's okay if Reid's not here. He's probably just swamped with work. He'll come back once he's less busy."

Garrett shook his head. "Josie, you don't know Reid like we do. That boy, if you don't chase after him, he might as well be on the moon for all we'd hear from him."

"I was starting to think I only had two sons," Hattie muttered under her breath.

Josefina didn't know what to say.

"Look, Josie, you go on. We'll handle your brother Reid. Don't you worry about it," Garrett said, trying to reassure her.

Hattie added, "Reid needs a kick in the pants now and then. Go on, get some sleep, Josie."

With a smile, Josefina stood up. "I'll head off then."

After she left, Garrett's expression turned stern as he dialed Reid's number.

"Dad, what's up? I'm swamped right now. If it's not urgent, let's hold off. I'll come home after the competition," Reid's voice came through the phone, rushed and distracted.

Garrett's temper flared. "Reid, you little rascal, you better make it back here! If you don't, I swear I'll tan your hide! Your sister's been home for a month. What on earth are you so busy with? Too busy to be president?"

"Josie, Dominic's gone. His family swooped in and whisked him away, settling his medical bills with a scowl," Percy reported.

Josefina's lips curled into a triumphant smile. "I told you my plan would work. Dominic might be loaded, but his family wouldn't let him carry on like that."

"Do you think Dominic will come after you once he's discharged?" Percy asked, concern lacing his tone.

Josefina pondered for a moment. "No worries. If he comes, he comes. I don't even know the guy. And I certainly don't have time to meet him."

Josefina had zero interest in Dominic. An enemy of Oliver was an enemy of hers.

"Percy, don't fret. I can handle this. And you, try to get some rest and not live in the lab," she advised warmly.

Percy's face broke into a refreshing smile. "Thanks for caring, Josie. I'm heading home to rest now. You should do the same."