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 note

Overwhelmed by his intense gaze, she

about what happened

by Jasper approaching them. Elio's words hung

Candice whispered, "Let's not talk about the past. It's

came across as cold and detached to Elio. To him, she seemed like a woman merely curious about sex, impulsively

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 Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of

Candice offered

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

Jasper and Candice to the door. He watched silently

slowly pulled away, and Elio remained rooted to the spot without a word. Expressionless, he watched until the car vanished

ensuring she was never alone. They arranged for someone to accompany her everywhere, and she

it incredibly difficult for Elio to find any opportunity to get close to her. He entered his villa with a heavy heart and

own stifling oppressive, dull breaths. His