Chapter 1145

Annika wiped her hands on her apron and headed to the door, trying to shake off the nerves that had been building up inside her. When she opened it, she was greeted by two faces she recognized from photos but had never met in person.

Standing there were Makiko and Cole-one with a bouquet of fresh flowers, the other holding a basket of health supplements. Annika had to play it cool, pretending she didn't recognize them.

“Who are you here for?” she asked, feigning ignorance.

Cole chuckled, trying to ease the tension. "I'm Cole, a friend of Josie's, and this is Makiko. We came by to check on her."

Annika looked them over, suspicion written all over her face. "And how did you know Ms. Josefina was in this room? Who told you?"

Annika had decided today was the day she'd be the nosy gatekeeper. Everyone had to get through her first.

Cole quickly explained, "I was here with my wife for a check-up and happened to see Oliver leaving this room. We felt terrible about what happened at the ranch and wanted to drop by."

Makiko stood quietly beside him, offering a polite smile.

Josefina, overhearing from inside, called out, “Oh, Cole, Makiko, you're too kind. Come on in and have a seat."

Annika stepped aside to let them in. As they passed, she unclenched her fingers from around a small black object she had been holding, relieved that it stayed put.

Once Cole and Makiko were seated, Annika cleared the table, as Hattie and Josefina had already finished eating.

Breaking the silence, Cole said, “Josie, sorry for just dropping in."

Makiko added, "Yes, Josie, we brought some health supplements for you. Thought they might help with your recovery."

With a gentle smile, Josefina

reassured them, "Cole, Makiko, there

was no need to come. We're like

family. I'm just here for observation

after bit of a scare. The doctor a

said these things can really shake you up, give you nightmares. It's all mental, and that's harder to heal than a broken bone."

Makiko and Cole exchanged a look, unsure of what to say.

Cole, trying to steer the

conversation, asked, "So, any updates on Was it intentional? If so, we should definitely involve the police"

e horse incidents net

Makiko added, “I'm sure the police here will handle it fairly."

Josefina held back a laugh, knowing they were so confident because they believed nothing incriminating would be found.

"Cole, Makiko, you're absolutely right. Our police will make sure justice is served," Josefina said, her words carrying a hidden message.

Hattie jumped in, "Josie, you need to

stay awan

from risky activities.

You're our little princess, and we'd all

be worried sick if somethingo happened to you."

Her tone shifted, becoming more firm. "Anyone who messes with you has the Harrison family to deal with."

Cole nodded earnestly. "Don't worry, Josie is part of the Baldwin family too. We won't let anyone harm her."

Makiko added, "Seeing Josie always reminds me of my daughter, Nene. Lovely girls like them deserve to grow up safe and sound.”

Josefina listened to their smooth words, impressed but still cautious.

After a bit more small talk, Cole and Makiko headed out. Hattie saw them to the

door, maintaining her smile until they were out of sight.

Once the door closed, Hattie's expression shifted instantly. She picked up her phone, ready to make a call.