The Wrong Woman

The conversation dwindled into another round of silence. To bridge the emotional gap, Elio tried to change the subject.

"Are you facing any challenges at work?" he asked.

Suddenly reminded of the layoffs, Candice turned to face him, her voice tinged with anxiety. "Is the company planning to lay anyone off?"

A gentle smile finally crossed Elio's face the moment she met his gaze. "You don't have to worry. You're not on the list."

"What about my friend, Vanessa Yates? Can you make sure she's safe, too?"

"Vanessa Yates?" Elio echoed.

Candice nodded in response.

"Okay, I'll make a note of it."

intense gaze, she shifted her gaze

about what happened

approaching them. Elio's

of guilt and anxiety, Candice whispered, "Let's not talk about

afraid that Jasper might overhear their conversation. Yet, her words came across as cold and detached to Elio. To him, she seemed like a

movie with Uncle Elio, then head home. It's getting late, and I don't want grandma and grandpa to worry

Candice offered a faint

movie played on. His attention wasn't on the screen but

to escort Jasper and Candice to the door. He watched silently as

remained rooted to the spot without a word. Expressionless, he watched until the car vanished from his

Candice, ensuring she was never alone. They arranged for someone to accompany her everywhere, and she was always picked up and dropped off at work by

to her. He entered his villa

own stifling oppressive, dull breaths. His mind