Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Chapter 83

Luke paced anxiously on the other side of the room, his voice tinged with exasperation. "Boss, why haven't you exposed Ruby for the poser she is yet? I've seen Billy's company’s latest design, and it's obviously your work. It doesn't have your name on it, but the style screams 'you!'"

Josefina's voice was the epitome of calm. "Let me have a look."

A quick search revealed headlines that praised the prodigious talents of the city's golden girl, Ruby. Below were countless accolades singing Ruby's praises, suggesting her talent was unmatched. Though Ruby's photograph was nowhere to be found, her name was already a household word.

"Luke, take a breather. I'll handle this," Josefina reassured him, her ever-cool demeanor calming Luke's restlessness.

"Boss, I knew you'd be the one to sort it out," Luke said, the excitement in his voice barely contained.

Josefina's lips curved into a faint smile. "Got to get back to work."

After ending the call, Josefina stepped back into the conference room.

...

When George arrived at the hospital with breakfast in tow, Oliver was already dressed and ready to leave. George blinked in surprise. "Sir, where's Ms. Josefina? Aren't you two together? I brought breakfast for both of you."

Oliver replied tersely, "She went back to the office."

Quick on his heels, George followed Oliver out of the hospital. In the car, George broached another topic. "Sir, your father wants to have dinner with you tonight."

Oliver's expression darkened, a storm brewing in his eyes at the mention of the unpleasant engagement.

"I've already declined on your behalf, but he insists on seeing you. He said if you're not back by ten tonight, he'll come looking for you at the office." Content (C) Nôv/elDra/ma.Org.

Oliver's frown deepened, a chilling aura emanating from him. George, feeling the temperature drop, dared not speak further, unsure how to ease the tension.

"Such is the trial of having a crazy father like that," George mused. And this was a trial that Oliver bore alone.

After a moment, Oliver spoke in an icy tone, "Noted. Back to the office." George remained silent the rest of the drive to the company.

Upon arrival, George heard from the receptionist that a woman claiming to be Oliver's fiancée had been waiting for some time.

Oliver paused mid-stride and turned to the receptionist. His commanding presence and piercing gaze sent her bowing her head, unable to meet his eyes.

...

Ruby sat in the lounge, her nerves frayed with anticipation. When footsteps approached, she jumped to her feet and swung around to face the tall figure advancing towards her, her heart leaping to her throat.

She watched him approach, momentarily losing her ability to speak. Did Oliver's willingness to come and see her mean that he had feelings for her, too?

With a hopeful smile, she greeted him, "Hi Oliver."

Oliver's assistant stopped a meter away from Ruby, his face stern and his gaze sharp. "You don't even know what Mr. Oliver looks like, yet you have the audacity to claim you're his fiancée?"

"You're not Oliver?"

With a frosty tone, the assistant clarified, "I'm Mr. Oliver's assistant. He has a message for you. Leave immediately and stop sullying his sight with your presence."

Ruby's head hung low, a shiver running down her spine as a chilling aura engulfed her from above. As she slowly lifted her gaze, she met the assistant's menacing eyes. He delivered Oliver's ultimatum, "Oliver said your family doesn't seem to understand plain English. He has called off the engagement. Do not pester him further, or the next time, your whole family might find themselves behind bars."

Ruby stood there, dumbfounded. Why would Oliver be so heartless?

The assistant continued, "Oliver also mentioned that he has no interest in past family affairs. Spread any more lies, and you'll face the consequences yourself."

Ruby was left reeling, unable to comprehend Oliver's cold-hearted dismissal.