The Wrong Woman

After suppressing his feelings for so many years, Elio found himself lacking the courage to touch Candice's face. He mocked himself inwardly. What a coward he was.

But he couldn't wait any longer. He had no more time to waste.

Standing up, he entered the bedroom and retrieved a plush blanket, gently draping it over Candice before retreating to his own room.

By the nightstand, he removed his watch and loosened his tie. At that instant, his phone rang. Glancing at the caller ID, he saw it was Michaela calling.

Due to the time difference, it was midnight here but noon back in Norvania. He shed his tie and blazer before answering the call.

His voice was low and hoarse. "Mom, what's going on?"

From the other end, Michaela's furious voice erupted. "Elio, have you lost your mind? Why did you take Candice out of the country? What are you trying to do? You rascal, you promised me you'd manage the overseas company for ten years before coming back!"

Elio remained silent.

continued, "You lost it when you found out Candice joined our company, didn't you? You couldn't even

cold and detached. "I returned under

follow one condition without question. I announced your engagement to Josie at the banquet, so you must marry her and

harm her even a

done?" Elio asked,

you, but as your mother, I do. If you lay

out onto the balcony, standing in the night like a lonely soul. His tone was devoid of anger as he responded, "Mom, do you even remember what you've done to me all these

silence

and let out a bitter laugh, his words laced with pain and sorrow. "I didn't have. Wanda's exceptional intelligence, but you

childhood was filled with nothing but learning every waking hour except for six hours of sleep.

on a girl. Was that such a crime? You burned all the photos I had of her, threw away every gift she gave me, and even forbade me from seeing her. You forced me to date other girls and