The Wrong Woman

Josie offered a wry smile, her gaze shifting to Candice, who sat quietly, absorbing the conversation.

"Candice, you know, in terms of family hierarchy, you should call Leo 'uncle.' If you two end up together, how will your families cope? How will Aunt Chubs face such a complicated relationship?" she asked. The question caught Candice off guard.

Before she could respond, Elio interjected angrily, "Are you here to cause trouble right in front of me?"

Quickly, Josie defended herself, "As a friend, I'm just curious about how Candice plans to handle this. How is that causing trouble?"

"This is between Candice and me. We'll figure it out. Focus on your issues. If you're done talking, you can leave," Elio said firmly.

Josie's smile vanished, replaced by a serious expression. "Elio, our relationship might have been fake, but our years of friendship are real, aren't they?"

"What are you trying to say?" Elio asked.

"I'm advising you as a friend. Candice and you are never going to work. Your families will never accept it. Don't ruin her life and end up with nothing," Josie warned. Elio's expression darkened further.

Rising to her feet, Josie concluded, "I've said all I needed to say. I should go now. Take care."

Neither Elio nor Candice rose to see her out. The door closed heavily behind her, leaving the living room in silence.

and Elio exchanged glances, caught in a few awkward moments. Candice lowered her head and murmured, "Josie is right. Our families will never

with a

he swallowed. After a moment of silence, he suddenly asked, "Candice, may I kiss you?" Stunned by

down onto the couch, and initiated a

left Candice flustered. He kissed her for a long time, their lips meeting and parting in a

home, still feeling dazed, as if everything that

just one day, her relationship

in her family about her pregnancy. Nor could she bring herself to discuss the idea of marrying Elio

neither family would approve, especially not

room, Florence and Gary sat together, enjoying some fruits. Curious, Florence asked, "Candice, where did you

"Have some fruit."

you." Candice hesitated, with how to broach feeling

Grandma, if... if,

"Yes, what is it?"

but being with him goes against moral