The Wrong Woman

Elio glanced at the contract briefly before closing it and placing it in the drawer.

Candice asked, "Mr. Hoffis, is there anything else?"

Elio looked up at her indifferently. His cool and unreadable gaze unsettled Candice, making her heart race.

"You" Elio started to speak but was interrupted by the sound of the door opening.

"Leo," called out Josie's gentle voice.

Josie, who walked in without knocking, paused for a moment when she saw Candice. She quickly smiled and said, "Candice, you're here too?"

Candice nodded politely. "Hello, Josie."

Josie beamed. "Am I interrupting? Should I come back later?"

Elio immediately interjected, "No need." He then turned to Candice and said, "That's all for now. You may leave."

Candice felt a pang in her chest. She didn't understand why she felt so sad.

was Elio's first girlfriend, and they had been dating for years. They were getting engaged next month. Of course, she could enter without knocking. Elio must have

the dull ache in her heart remained. Lowering her head, she bid farewell and left the office. Once she exited

chest. She wiped away her

of feelings for Elio weren't

wished he would treat her kindly, like her other cousins, and

full-time employee, Candice received an unexpected assignment from her new director,

on a business trip with me the day after

trip?" Candice

we're flying abroad to attend ND's international fashion

was both shocked and

buzzed with excitement. Even seasoned designers were envious, yet confused at the

"Why Candice? A newbie shouldn't

event. All attendees were top fashion industry leaders and renowned designers from

replied, "It's the company's decision. If you have any objections, take them up with the

the decision,

her off at the airport, each offering their own