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.

worried about?" Elio looked

had a point. She pulled out a chair,

it had cooled, 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. She maintained her composure, finishing her food and milk calmly. Elio ate elegantly, and once she was done, he reached over to

me wash them,"

curious. "Have

smile and

it," Elio said, carrying the dishes and glasses to

Candice watched Elio's broad back as he worked in the open

the sleeves of his white shirt rolled

the dishes and turned around, he caught

looked away, pretending to be

was just a coincidence, then walked back