Chapter 996

Oliver wrapped an arm around her waist, looking deep into Josefina's eyes, which sparkled like ripe blackberries.

"You promised, remember? You have to tell your parents."

"Of course, I'll let them know. Don't worry," Josefina assured him, playfully tousling his hair.

Oliver's face felt cool, and noticing he seemed a bit off, Josefina added, "Really, I'II talk to them. But I should head back now; it's getting late."

"I'll walk you home," Oliver offered, getting to his feet.

Josefina gently pushed him back into his seat. "No need, I'll manage. Remember, we're supposed to act like we didn't meet."

Sticking to her plan, Josefina shared a few more words with Oliver before making her way out.

...

Once home, everything felt normal, like no one had even thought about marriage.

Josefina cheerfully greeted everyone, enjoyed dinner, and even played a round of chess with her grandpa.

She didn't mention the proposal at all, not until she was upstairs, lounging on the couch, cozy from the warmth of the heater.

Just then, a knock came at the door.

Her mom, Hattie, called out, "Josie, it's Mom. Can I come in?"

Josefina opened the door with a smile, "Of course, come on in."

They exchanged a warm, knowing glance, their eyes twinkling with shared secrets.

Hattie, in her pajamas, settled on the couch beside Josefina.

"Josie, Oliver stopped by today. He proposed, wants to marry you. Your dad, your brother, and didn't give him an answer. He brought gifts, but I asked him to take them back. He left them anyway, saying he'd be back."

Hattie chuckled softly, "I must admit, I like Oliver. And I know you do too."

Hearing this, Josefina blushed, her cheeks turning a soft shade of pink.

Hattie asked gently, "Josie, is there something pressing that made Oliver propose now?"

Josefina hesitated, fiddling with a lock of her hair, unsure how to answer.

Sensing her daughter's unease, Hattie held her hand lovingly, "Sweetheart, you can tell me anything. Let me help you."

Finally, Josefina gathered her courage.

"I'm pregnant..."

She lowered her gaze, scared of finding disappointment in her mother's eyes.

Her mind was a whirlwind of emotions, but then she heard her mom's soothing voice above her.

"Oh, Josie, that's amazing! Am I going to be a grandma?"

Josefina looked up, disbelief etched on her face.

"Josie, there's no shame in being pregnant. I get how things happen when you're young Remember a man might net. always stick around but your child will always be yours. If Oliver isn't good to you, we'll deal with him. We've got your back, always!"

Josefina was overcome with emotion, tears filling her eyes, leaving her momentarily speechless.

Hattie comforted her further, "Don't

worry

out any of this. If you wanet

we've got

to have the bad

everything you need

Josefina, touched and emotional, managed to whisper, "I'm sorry I didn't tell you

sooner. I was just... unsure how."

"Don't blame yourself, Josie. If anyone's at fault, it's Oliver for being impulsive," Hattie teased with a gentle smile.