Blind Date Turned Proposal

Before leaving the studio, Josie countered Laura’s assumption. “Do I really care about him? I wouldn’t have even cared if he were on the brink of death!”

Recalling the times Arnold had played games with her, her anger was palpable.

Back at Mason Garden, Paul was seated at the dining table, engrossed in his meal. Spotting Josie’s return, Julie hastened to take her coat. “Madam, you’re back so soon.”

“Yes, just had to handle some minor matters.” Josie approached the table, casting a glance at her father’s meal. “What’s on the menu?”

Her attention shifted as she noticed her father clutching a photograph frame tightly, his gaze distant. “Dad? What’s that you’re holding onto? Dad?”

Extending her hand, she gently shook her father’s arm, snapping him out of his reverie. “It’s your photograph, Jo.”

Josie was taken aback. “Photograph? Which photograph?” She couldn’t recall placing any framed photo of herself.

Julie approached with a concerned expression. “…Madam, since you left, he’s been holding onto that photograph, insisting it’s yours. I’ve tried explaining, but he wouldn’t listen.”

father’s memory had become less reliable since his recovery, and moments of confusion weren’t uncommon. She hadn’t paid

“What photograph?”

and whispered something into Josie’s

Josie’s face changed dramatically upon hearing it. She swiftly moved forward, intending to take the photo away. “Dad, give

to release it, his frustration

not me! I’m right here in front of you. Look

the photo from him. His eyes appeared unfocused, and confusion further

force, but her attempt led to a fall as she stumbled backward.

on the floor with a snap as the frame

broken frame revealed the

heart quivered. The photo depicted a smiling little girl. For some inexplicable reason, a wave of sorrow washed over her. She drew nearer, wanting to

held concern as she exclaimed worriedly, “Madam,

of blood snapped Paul back to reality. He trembled, rushing to support

Josie remained motionless.