The Wrong Woman

The conversation dwindled into another round of silence. To bridge the emotional gap, Elio tried to change the subject.

"Are you facing any challenges at work?" he asked.

Suddenly reminded of the layoffs, Candice turned to face him, her voice tinged with anxiety. "Is the company planning to lay anyone off?"

A gentle smile finally crossed Elio's face the moment she met his gaze. "You don't have to worry. You're not on the list."

"What about my friend, Vanessa Yates? Can you make sure she's safe, too?"

"Vanessa Yates?" Elio echoed.

Candice nodded in response.

make a

said Candice. Overwhelmed by his intense

what happened

off by Jasper approaching them. Elio's words hung unfinished in

mix of guilt and anxiety, Candice whispered, "Let's not talk about the past. It's all

Jasper might overhear their conversation. Yet, her words came across as cold and detached to Elio. To him, she seemed like a woman merely curious

the seat between them, placing a hand on Candice's shoulder. "Candice, let's finish this movie with Uncle Elio, then head home. It's getting late, and I don't want grandma and grandpa to worry about you." S~ᴇaʀᴄh the FɪndNøvel.ɴet website on

Candice offered

fell as the movie played on. His attention wasn't on the screen but on the

to escort Jasper and Candice to the door. He watched silently as Candice climbed into

word. Expressionless, he watched until the car vanished from his sight. His heart

for someone to accompany her everywhere, and

made it incredibly difficult for Elio to find any opportunity to get close to her.

hear his own stifling oppressive, dull