The Wrong Woman

Elio's deep voice softly pronounced her name. "Candice."

Perplexed, Candice responded, "Yes?"

"Candice," he called out once more.

"I'm here, right beside you. What's wrong?" Candice replied patiently.

"Candice, Candice..." Elio's voice grew heavier, infused with a sense of desolation. As he continued, his eyes reddened further, his gaze gradually drifting away. Observing Elio's condition, Candice felt utterly bewildered.

She had been by his side the whole time, so why was he repeatedly calling her name without providing any further explanation?

Was he intoxicated?

With a bitter twist to his lips, Elio struggled to speak, his words slow and labored. "Ca... Can... dice."

Concern etched on her face, Candice leaned closer. Meeting his gaze, she reassured him. "I'm here."

Elio stole a glance at her, offering a faint smile before reclining further back on the sofa. With his eyes closed, he murmured, "You've intruded into my dreams once more." "What?" Candice couldn't quite grasp his meaning. Intrigued, she leaned in closer and asked, "Elio, what are you trying to tell me?"

"Candice."

"Why do you keep calling my name? Just tell me what's on your mind!" Candice urged, growing impatient.

"C... an... dice."

urgency, she grabbed her phone and dialed Sean's number. Sean answered the

over Candice as she began, "I apologize for disturbing you, Mr. Lowe, but it

currently seated in the living room with his clothing soaked through. I'm genuinely worried he might become

Hoffis is drunk?" Sean exclaimed,

of his wet attire? With a touch of apprehension, Candice elaborated, "Yes, once he saw me, he kept calling my name, as if he had something

seems the alcohol has muddled his thoughts, and I doubt he'll even bother changing out

Sean assured, swiftly

the doorbell chimed, Candice

sight of Elio still clad in his soaked garments. Witnessing his

gently, he draped an arm around Elio's shoulders,

in, taking hold

Elio into his room

he couldn't help but exchange

Candice inquired, "Wasn't he meant to attend the banquet? How did he end up so intoxicated and drenched? Didn't he have an

he understood Elio's sentiments, he was aware that disclosing

the relationship between Elio and Candice was intricate, with

considerations-matters that Sean wasn't

stepping out for a moment?