Chapter 549

Oliver couldn't help but chuckle, feeling a tug of agreement with Brandon's words. "Your taste is spot on, and Josie is nothing short of wonderful," Brandon had said. As they chatted about Josefina, the tension in the air eased significantly.

"Oliver, landing someone like Josie would be a dream come true. Forget about whatever Rowan's scheming and focus on making that amazing woman your wife." Brandon admired Josefina for her straightforwardness and efficiency.

"Got it, Grandpa."

Hanging up the phone, Oliver realized that the whole mess was Dominic's doing. Concern had clouded his judgment, and he had overlooked the fact that Dominic was a toothless monster in disguise. Seemingly harmless, yet vicious to the core.

Oliver clutched his phone and sent a message, his mind as calm as still water.

...

Ruby's eyes snapped open, and she nearly jumped out of her skin. Lauren was sitting by her bed, eyes fixed on her, giving her quite the scare.

"Mom, what's up? Why are you sitting by my bed so early in the morning? Is something wrong?"

It's like being scared to death by your own mother!

Lauren chuckled, "Ruby, I made your favorite dumplings. Come on, breakfast is ready."

Ruby sensed something was off with Lauren, as if she was serving a last meal. After getting up and getting ready, Ruby joined her mother.

Lauren had prepared a feast. Seeing Ruby, she beamed, "Come on, honey, breakfast is getting cold."

Sitting down, Ruby's bare face showed a touch of sun-kissed glow. Lauren was makeup-free, looking years older.

"Mom, you sure you're okay? If there's anything wrong, you have to tell me. We'll figure it out together."

Lauren shook her head and poured Ruby a glass of soy milk. "I'm fine sweetie Having you back home makes me so happy. Just being together and making the most of our days is all that matters."

Lauren didn't touch her food and continued, "Ruby, I bought you a

plane ticket. You'll fly out to see your brother. I've arranged everything Someone will be there to pick you up

Ruby's heart raced. "Aren't you coming, Mom?"

"Of course, I am. I'll be traveling with you. We'll leave this place of troubles behind."

Ruby exhaled a sigh of relief and smiled, pouring Lauren a glass of soy milk. “Here, Mom, have some soy milk. I'll add a bit of sugar, just how you like it."

The two shared a meal, laughter filling the room.

After breakfast, Lauren stepped out, and Ruby happily packed her bags.

Josefina had a hectic day at the office. Just as she left, Lauren's call came through.

"Josefina, we need to talk. If you don't show, I'll be waiting outside your office every day until you do."

Josefina let out a snort. "Is that a threat? You think I'm scared of you?"

Lauren's voice dropped to a serious tone. “Josefina, I know who switched you kids all those years ago."

Josefina paused, reluctant to believe her.

Lauren continued, "I saw it happen. I remember what that person looked like.

Believe it or not, I'm waiting at the diner across from your office."

With furrowed brows, Josefina hung up, still deciding whether to confront the past.

Josefina stepped into the coffee

shop and made her way to the

private booth Lauren mentioned. On

guard she didn't use her hands.

push the door open but used the

handle of her umbrella instead.

Seeing no traps, she left her umbrella by the door and slowly walked in. Lauren was sipping her coffee, unfazed by Josefina's entrance, her expression unreadable.