Chapter 978

Sydney was the real mastermind behind it all.

Josefina nodded in agreement with Oliver's suggestion. "Let's give it a shot," she said. "I need some time to dig into this and figure out the right solution."

Looking at Rowan's condition, even if she managed to remove the parasite, Josefina couldn't say how long he'd last. His original lifespan was already compromised. She kept these thoughts to herself, not wanting to dampen Brandon's spirits.

...

Oliver walked Josefina out of Brandon's place. As they strolled, Josefina touched her bruised neck. "I should grab a scarf," she said. "Don't want my family worrying if they see this."

Her neck was a patchwork of bruises, like she'd been roughly handled. Oliver, feeling responsible, guided her to a nearby mall and straight to a scarf shop.

"You're buying too much," Josefina protested. "I don't need all these. A dab of ointment, and I'll be good as new."

"Josie, even if I bought you a thousand scarves, it wouldn't ease my guilt. If it weren't for us Baldwins bringing you here, you wouldn't have been hurt."

He had the scarves wrapped and then whisked Josefina off to find some turtleneck sweaters. "These will cover up the bruises," he said. "Let me do this, please. Spending a little makes me feel like I'm not completely helpless."

Josefina smiled. "Oliver, you're too good at this. How could I say no?"

She reached out, playfully ruffling his hair. Oliver leaned in, letting her enjoy the moment, a cheeky grin on his face.

"Aren't you worried folks might see us?" Josefina teased, noticing the bustling crowd around them.

Oliver just took her hand and put it back on his cheek, eyes sparkling with mischief. "Letting my wife touch my face is nothing to be shy about."

Josefina pulled her hand back, finding his charm hard to resist.

Hand in hand, Oliver led her to pick out a few turtlenecks and then took her out for a bite to eat.

As they entered the restaurant, they stumbled upon, Livia and Finley in the middle of a heated spat. More like Finley clinging to Livia, who seemed ready to bolt.

Livia shook him off, clearly annoyed. Josefina stepped in, taking Livia's arm. "Livia," she called gently.

Hearing Josefina's familiar voice, Livia sidled up to her and whispered, "Finley's like

a pesky fly that won't go away. It's driving me nuts."

"Let's get out of here," Josefina suggested. "I could use your help with something. She turned to Oliver and said, "Oliver, I head out with Livia. You and Finley can have lunch together."

With that, Josefina whisked Livia away.

Oliver shot a frosty look at Finley, making him squirm a bit.

"Oliver, don't give me that look," Finley whined. "I missed my shot at lunch with Livia too. I'm just as bummed."

Ignoring him, Oliver turned to leave, not thrilled about eating with Finley.

Finley grabbed Oliver's arm. "We've got a reservation, man. If we skip out, that's money down the drain."

Reluctantly, Oliver let himself be dragged inside. Once seated, Finley eagerly poured him a drink.

"You're being awfully nice. What's up?" Oliver eyed the drink but didn't sip it.

"Oliver, I need a favor. Could you ask Josie to chat with Livia for me?" Finley pleaded, eyes wide with hope.

"No way," Oliver shot back without a second thought. He knew better than to bring such a request to

Josefina Shed throw him out in a

heartbeat, and that wasn't worth the

risk.

"Come on, Oliver, help a guy out, will you?" Finley begged, his tone pitifully hopeful.