The Wrong Woman

Candice's heart raced as she clutched her phone with both hands, her gaze locked on the message from Elio. She read it repeatedly, striving to grasp every word. Was Elio asking her out, just the two of them? Should she accept?

Feeling conflicted, she glanced at Jasper, who was behind the wheel. Hesitantly, she said, "Jasper, you don't have to pick me up from work tomorrow." "Why not?" Jasper asked.

"I..." Candice faltered, knowing that Jasper would soon discover her lie if she claimed to be working late. She made up an excuse. "I'm going shopping with a friend." "Which friend? Where are you headed?" Jasper questioned.

Feeling a twinge of guilt, Candice responded, "Vanessa. We're just going around the office area."

Jasper seemed unconcerned. "Alright, just be careful and make sure you come home early."

A wave of relief washed over Candice, and she leaned closer to Jasper, offering him a sweet smile. "Thanks, Jasper."

Bemused, Jasper chuckled and replied, "Why are you thanking me? Enjoy your time."

from his pocket and offered it to Candice.

no. I have enough

saying affectionately, "Take it. Spend mine and

Candice said, "Thank

yet to respond to Elio's message. In the chat window, she could see Elio typing, pausing, then starting again. Yet, no message came through. Candice began

study, Elio alternated between checking on his phone and tapping

Was she hesitant about going out with

buzzed. Elio snatched it

I have work tomorrow, so

with joy, and a smile crept across his lips as he quickly texted back. "Great, I'll wait for you. See you tomorrow."

he left the study with his phone in hand. He swiftly ascended the stairs

and meticulously selected an outfit for the next day. It needed to strike the perfect balance-neither too formal nor too casual, youthful yet