The Wrong Woman

"Thank you," Rick said to Elio and Candice as they walked away. "I'll arrange for the delivery right away."

Elio led Candice outside to the quiet street of the garden center. He turned to face her with frustration in his eyes.

Candice's heart pounded as she sensed his irritation. She swallowed hard, staring at him.

With his frustration barely contained, Elio lowered his voice. "Candice, let me make this clear one last time. I'm Jasper's uncle, not yours. I have no familial connection to your parents. Do you understand?" Confused by his upset tone, Candice quickly apologized, "I'm sorry. I understand now. It won't happen again."

Elio sighed, his expression softening as he gazed at her, who stared back at him. For a moment, an unusual connection seemed to spark between them.

Summoning her courage, Candice asked, "Elio, are you and Josie truly not together?"

"No," Elio replied.

Candice's heart pounded as she continued, "Do you have a girlfriend?"

"No."

through Candice, and she bit her lip to hold back a smile. Striving to

he suggested, "Let's head back. You could help me figure out where to place the

anxious, Candice asked, "I'll be going to your

figure out where to place them. After that,

Candice murmured, lowering her head to

together. However, she decided against it, finding the topic too awkward.

Hillside Villa. The truck delivering

Candice's direction. Once everything

empty home now looked

admired Candice's handiwork, His emotions were plain

to Elo and said awkwardly, "I'm

it. It looks great,"

face lit up with a smile at his

acknowledgment. Then, gesturing toward the dining table, he added, "Dinner's ready. How about we eat together before you head