The Wrong Woman

Candice slipped into a new evening gown, touched up her makeup, and glided back into the banquet hall.

The ambiance inside remained lively and effervescent. Casually, she made her way to the side, and upon reaching the dining area; she selected her favorite dishes from the table.

Meanwhile, Michaela and Tristan approached the stage, each holding a wine glass. With a resonating voice, Tristan began, "Thank you, esteemed guests..."

Candice stole a glance at the duo on stage, observing their radiant smiles and eloquent words. These formalities and social graces were nothing new to her.

As the toasts circulated, she pondered whether to indulge in dessert tonight. However, thoughts of potential weight gain and skin issues held her back. Maintaining her appearance and figure mattered, which meant carefully considering her diet.

Opting against dessert, she settled for pumpkin soup instead.

After Tristan's speech of pleasantries concluded, Michaela's voice filled the room. "Tonight, I'd like to take this opportunity to share some joyful news. My son, Elio, will be engaged to Josie next month. We hope to see all of you there."

Hearing the announcement, Candice froze in place, her body going rigid, and the plate with food in her hand slipped, clattering onto the table. Despite the loud noise, it was drowned out by the enthusiastic applause from the crowd.

buzzed, drowning out all sound except the chaos around her.

It hurt so much!

head, she slowly began to collect the scattered items. Her throat tightened and

had been away for two years, and now

years, and perhaps

ensuring no one

ten, her feelings had evolved from innocent admiration to adolescent infatuation, and eventually to unrequited love in adulthood. She had

cousin's uncle was guarded

that could never be openly acknowledged or shared. She had navigated the highs and lows alone,

Candice?" came a gentle,

the man beside her. It was her eldest cousin, Hector

met, and Hector noticed the redness in Candice's eyes, the

glass down, gently cupping Candice's face. "What's wrong? Who upset you? Tell me, what happened?

and concealment. Sniffling nervously, she explained,