The Wrong Woman

Candice's uneasiness grew. "Then I'll go to the economy class. I'm just an ordinary employee. It's not appropriate for me to be in first class."

She was about to get up when Elio's voice, lazy yet commanding, stopped her. "Sit down. I paid for your ticket privately. It's not on the company's dime."

Candice quickly pulled out her phone. "Then I'll pay you back. How much is it?"

With a sharp sound, Elio snapped his book shut. He removed his glasses, folded them neatly, and placed them on the table beside him before closing his eyes as if to rest.

Holding her phone, Candice was stunned for a moment but received no response from Elio. She then slowly put it away. Elio was truly unpredictable.

During the flight, neither of them spoke. Elio alternated between reading and resting his eyes, while Candice spent the time sketching designs.

After they landed, Candice followed Sadie and another renowned ND designer, Emerson Hartford, to check in at a five-star hotel.

Sitting on the lobby couch, Candice couldn't resist pulling out her phone and calling her childhood friend.

"Merv, guess where I am right now?" Candice said excitedly when the call connected.

who was Daniel's close friend. He was Candice's childhood companion and was now

your tone, could you already be at my

on a business trip with my company and just arrived

exactly are you? Send me your location, and I'll

place. I'll send you my location. But only if you have time. I don't want to interrupt your studies, Merv."

more important than

Candice smiled. "You're-"

her phone was suddenly snatched away. Startled, she turned to see Elio standing

are you doing?" Candice asked, annoyed by his rudeness,

them stared at

expression darkened as she said, "Why did you end my call and

instead, his face remained cold as

24/7. I should have some personal time to see my friends,"

Mervyn's number flashed on the screen, and Elio immediately rejected the call. Stunned, Candice watched as Mervyn called again, only for Elio to reject

actions left Candice speechless. "Elio Hoffis, give me my