The Wrong Woman

Michaela delivered a firm admonition, stating, "In this world, any woman is welcome, except for Candice Morrison."

However, it wasn't that Michaela bore any animosity toward Candice.

On the contrary, she held a deep affection for her, treating her with the same love and care as if she were her own granddaughter.

Her apprehensions arose from a fear of Candice getting hurt, concerns about tarnishing her family's reputation, and anxieties regarding the potential strain it might place on the relationship between their two families.

Despite these concerns, Michaela appeared indifferent to Elio's happiness.

Throughout, she had vehemently opposed his relationship with Candice, resorting to extreme measures.

Elio had spent half his life compromising, but he had reached his breaking point.

He was determined to live life on his own terms.

If Candice were willing to embrace him and stand by his side despite the world's opposition, he wouldn't hesitate for a moment.

"My personal affairs are none of your concern," Elio responded sharply to Michaela's probing.

Michaela's anger flared as she persisted, "But what about Josie? After all these years together, are you going to abandon her for Candice?"

Elio's frustration erupted as he fired back, "Josie and I were never a couple. If it weren't for your insistence, I wouldn't have begged her to pretend to be my first love."

Michaela's astonishment was evident. "Pretend? Your relationship with Josie was fake?"

bitter, rueful smile tugged

when his hidden affection for Candice was exposed, he found himself confronted with threats and coercion

he had no option but to resort

greatly!" Michaela declared, her voice

responded, "I'm busy. Unless it's

and slipped his phone

head, lost

could stop him from

less about

found herself increasingly occupied as the

the apex moment in the fashion

event, Candice had the privilege of meeting

like herself, this fashion spectacle proved

at the front, Candice found herself

moment, she felt grateful for their connection, which afforded

up successfully, the celebratory banquet swiftly

CEO of ND Group, Elio found

Meanwhile, Candice held an

aversion to attending banquets.

like her mother,

corner where she could quietly relish

eating, she would briefly mingle

amidst a crowd of unfamiliar faces from around the world, heightening her social unease. Despite her discomfort, her sweet appearance seemed to attract a series of peculiar men who were eager to engage her in conversation. Unable to endure the situation any longer, she quietly left