The Wrong Woman

Josie offered a wry smile, her gaze shifting to Candice, who sat quietly, absorbing the conversation.

"Candice, you know, in terms of family hierarchy, you should call Leo 'uncle.' If you two end up together, how will your families cope? How will Aunt Chubs face such a complicated relationship?" she asked. The question caught Candice off guard.

Before she could respond, Elio interjected angrily, "Are you here to cause trouble right in front of me?"

Quickly, Josie defended herself, "As a friend, I'm just curious about how Candice plans to handle this. How is that causing trouble?"

"This is between Candice and me. We'll figure it out. Focus on your issues. If you're done talking, you can leave," Elio said firmly.

Josie's smile vanished, replaced by a serious expression. "Elio, our relationship might have been fake, but our years of friendship are real, aren't they?"

"What are you trying to say?" Elio asked.

"I'm advising you as a friend. Candice and you are never going to work. Your families will never accept it. Don't ruin her life and end up with nothing," Josie warned. Elio's expression darkened further.

Rising to her feet, Josie concluded, "I've said all I needed to say. I should go now. Take care."

Neither Elio nor Candice rose to see her out. The door closed heavily behind her, leaving the living room in silence.

Candice and Elio exchanged glances, caught in a few awkward moments. Candice lowered her head and murmured, "Josie is right. Our families will never easily agree." Elio spoke sincerely, "Don't worry about them. Just agree to be with me and marry me."

affirmed with

face, his Adam's apple bobbing as he swallowed. After a moment of silence, he suddenly asked, "Candice, may I kiss you?" Stunned by his question, Candice's

her down

left Candice flustered. He kissed her for a long time, their lips meeting and parting in a prolonged

as if everything that

her relationship underwent a

about her pregnancy. Nor could

conversation she couldn't initiate.

predicted, neither family would approve,

did you go today?" Candice walked over and settled beside them, hugging

"Have some fruit."

"No,

g you." Candice hesitated,

how to

"Grandpa, Grandma, if... if,

to..."

"Yes, what is it?"

I were to have feelings for someone, but being with him goes against moral and ethical standards,