The Wrong Woman

As Josie vanished from sight, Candice retrieved her phone, promptly settling the bill for the two coffees before departing herself.

On her way back to the office, she couldn't resist glancing at her phone to check the date.

With the wedding arranged by the Hoffis family for Josie and Elio just over 20 days away, the pressure on Josie must have been mounting.

Despite this, Candice's inner resolve rang clear. "As long as Elio remains unattached and still wishes to marry me, I'll hold firm in my carefree, love-struck state, regardless of others' opinions." However, there was one thing she couldn't tolerate betrayal.

As the evening approached and the workday persisted, Candice's phone buzzed with a message from Jasper.

"Candice, I've received orders from Uncle Elio. Starting today, I won't be able to give you rides home. He'll be handling that instead."

Candice swiftly replied, "But we travel the same route, unlike him."

Jasper responded, "That's true, but he's the one calling the shots."

Undeterred, Candice insisted, "Wait for me after work. I'll have a conversation with him to clear things up.'

Without a moment's hesitation, Candice pressed the call button, swiftly dialing Elio's number.

After just two rings, Elio answered, his voice gentle as he greeted, "Hey, Candice."

really no need for you to chauffeur me. It makes more sense

pause, Elio spoke up, "I was contemplating that we could benefit from spending more time together. Considering your busy

lives ahead of us. There's no need to fret over every single moment." Nevertheless, Elio's concern lingered-he worried they wouldn't have ample opportunity to nurture their

"Yes?"

"Where are you?"

still at the office,"

I'll have Jasper take care of your commute, but I really want to see you right now,"

already 5:00 pm. Lifting her

distribution of her engagement treats. If Elio were to appear at that moment, their relationship

seat and rushing toward the elevator doors. "I'll

"Okay," Elio replied softly.

that, the call

patiently by the elevator, awaiting Candice's

elevator

eyes gleamed with tenderness, a gentle smile gracing

meet Candice. Nevertheless, his smile waned as he caught sight of the

that took her by surprise.

tone becoming more subdued. "What brings you here?" he

remarked, "I just happened to be in the area and thought I'd stop by to see