The Wrong Woman

The golden sunlight streamed into the balcony garden, where flowers bloomed and greenery thrived.

Candice awoke naturally, groggily reaching for her phone. One glance at the time made her bolt upright in bed. She hurriedly threw off the covers and rushed into the bathroom.

After freshening up and getting dressed, she grabbed her bag and left her room. Passing through the living room, she saw Elio sitting at the dining table with two plates of breakfast and two glasses of milk in front of him.

"Good morning," Candice said nervously as she approached. "I didn't hear the alarm. I'm sorry. Is there any work planned for today?"

Elio, with his usual calm demeanor, gestured to the plate opposite him. "I made an extra portion. Join me for breakfast."

He made this? Candice looked at the breakfast in surprise. There was a peeled and sliced egg, some blanched broccoli, a pancake, and some fruits. It looked both exquisite and healthy but was presented quite plainly, certainly not the work of a hotel chef.

"But Ms. Lloyd..." Candice hesitated, thinking about the agreement to start work at 9:00 am. It was already past 10:00 am, and she feared to be reprimanded by Sadie.

still here. What are you worried about?" Elio looked

She pulled out a chair, sat down,

it still tasted good. Elio's culinary skills were decent, and it was a pleasant surprise to find out he could cook, let alone make an extra portion for her. Eating a breakfast made by the man she liked filled Candice with an inexplicable sweetness, joy, and excitement.

wash them," Candice offered

curious. "Have you ever washed dishes

forced an awkward smile and shook

carrying the dishes and glasses

broad back as he worked in the open kitchen. She had never seen him wash dishes before. It was a new and

tall and straight figure was striking, with the sleeves of his white

the dishes and turned around, he

looked away, pretending to be busy

moment, thinking it was just a coincidence, then walked back into