The Wrong Woman

Candice slipped into a new evening gown, touched up her makeup, and glided back into the banquet hall.

The ambiance inside remained lively and effervescent. Casually, she made her way to the side, and upon reaching the dining area; she selected her favorite dishes from the table.

Meanwhile, Michaela and Tristan approached the stage, each holding a wine glass. With a resonating voice, Tristan began, "Thank you, esteemed guests..."

Candice stole a glance at the duo on stage, observing their radiant smiles and eloquent words. These formalities and social graces were nothing new to her.

As the toasts circulated, she pondered whether to indulge in dessert tonight. However, thoughts of potential weight gain and skin issues held her back. Maintaining her appearance and figure mattered, which meant carefully considering her diet.

Opting against dessert, she settled for pumpkin soup instead.

After Tristan's speech of pleasantries concluded, Michaela's voice filled the room. "Tonight, I'd like to take this opportunity to share some joyful news. My son, Elio, will be engaged to Josie next month. We hope to see all of you there."

Hearing the announcement, Candice froze in place, her body going rigid, and the plate with food in her hand slipped, clattering onto the table. Despite the loud noise, it was drowned out by the enthusiastic applause from the crowd.

Her ears buzzed, drowning out all sound except the chaos around her. A sharp pain pierced her heart, leaving her vulnerable.

It hurt so much!

her head, she slowly began to collect the scattered items.

two years, and now he was suddenly back, engaged to

had been 12 long years, and perhaps

ensuring no one

had evolved from innocent admiration to

adulthood. She had we.net"

of admiration alone.

cousin's uncle was guarded closely by

was a forbidden love, one that could never be openly acknowledged or shared. She had navigated the highs and

Candice?" came a

beside her. It was her eldest

met, and Hector noticed the

down, gently cupping Candice's face. "What's wrong? Who upset you? Tell

and concealment. Sniffling nervously, she explained, "Hector, I'm

are tears, your eyes are red. Is it because of Elio's engagement...?" Hector

he could finish,

hastily interjected, desperately