The Wrong Woman

There was a persistent knock on the door.

Unwilling to respond, Elio remained motionless. His gaze was desolate and distant. It was as if he was lost in another world.

It wasn't until the knocking ceased and Mila's voice came to his ears that he snapped back to reality.

"Elio, it's me, Wanda."

Although Mila was rarely home, she held a warm and kind image in Elio's heart. He found those affections he lacked from Michaela in Mila.

Shaken from his thoughts, Elio got to his feet and turned the portrait around before heading to the door.

As the door was opened, Mila noticed his somber expression and lifeless gaze. She felt a pang of sympathy.

"Wanda, do you need something?" Elio asked.

Mila's eyes crinkled into a smile as she asked softly, "May I come in and sit for a while?"

Elio hesitated briefly, then opened the door wider. "Come in."

Mila stepped into the spacious room. Despite the brightness of the lights, the atmosphere felt dull and cold. There was a large bed, a row of cabinets, and a couch, all in subdued, cool tones that mirrored Elio's personality.

secret crush on Candice. She was like a ray of sunshine-warm

gaze sweeping the room until it landed on the portrait, now facing the floor. She offered a faint smile and patted the spot beside her.

him from head to toe. He was young, handsome, wealthy, and five years older than

love of his upbringing under Michaela and shaped him

to talk about something?"

here for your

face clouded over, and he responded

out the invitations and told everyone in our

silent, his gaze

to push you

smirk

frowned in concern. "Why

do if she was behind Candice's close call overseas. Should I have her arrested? Cut ties with her? Or just ignore it

anxiety spiked. "What happened

over now, and

adores Candice. She treats her like her own granddaughter.

and smiled gently. "You have feelings for Candice, don't

in surprise, his eyes reflecting the

"Don't give me that look.

back on

by his hesitation,