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.

a secret crush on Candice. She was like a ray of sunshine-warm and radiant, with

landed on the portrait, now facing the floor. She offered a faint smile and patted the spot beside her. "Elio, come sit with me." Elio complied and leaned back on the couch. S~ᴇaʀᴄh the FindNøvᴇl.nᴇt website on

He was young, handsome, wealthy, and five years older than Candice. Despite his less-than-charming personality, Elio was

him through the tough love of his upbringing under Michaela and shaped him into the man he

you want to talk

for your wedding

he responded icily, "There won't be

has already sent out the invitations

his gaze turning

push you

smirk crossed Elio's

concern. "Why

breath before responding, "I've been thinking about what to do if she was behind Candice's close call overseas. Should I have her arrested? Cut ties with her? Or just

"What happened to

now,

sighed in relief and said firmly, "Mom truly adores Candice. She treats her like her own granddaughter. Don't worry too

gave Elio's shoulder a comforting pat and smiled gently. "You have feelings

glanced at her in surprise, his eyes reflecting the uncertainty

that

back on the couch

by his