The Wrong Woman

Candice's lips formed a gentle smile as she nodded in acknowledgment.

Reaching for a piece of candy, Josie couldn't help but let out a sigh. "You know, Mrs. Hoffis actually prepared all these sweets for me. It seems like he's just trying to cut corners by re-gifting them to you." Candice's smile gradually faded at Josie's words.

As if realizing her mistake, Josie swiftly attempted to backtrack, offering a feigned apology, "I'm sorry, Candice. I was just speaking my mind. I hope I didn't upset you." Candice forced a polite smile and shook her head.

"I sincerely wish both of you a lifetime filled with love and happiness," Josie added.

"Thank you," Candice replied.

As Josie savored her coffee, she couldn't help but cast a cold glance at the scattered candies on the table, feeling a twinge of resentment stirring within her.

Placing her cup back on the table, she began, "I'm here today to talk about Elio."

"Sure, go ahead," Candice responded.

"Do you have any idea why Leo decided to marry you?" Josie asked pointedly.

"I'm not entirely sure," Candice admitted.

"He never discussed it with you?"

"I never thought to ask."

"Are you curious to find out?" Josie pressed.

A soft smile danced on Candice's lips as she replied, "Josie, could I ask you for a favor?"

"Absolutely! What do you need?"

ever revealing the reason

night to devising intricate plots to create conflict, only to be unexpectedly halted by Candice's plea. "Doesn't curiosity tempt you even a

from Elio than from someone else," Candice

he isn't

he lie

opportunity, Josie hurried to speak.

interrupted, raising her hand to stop

gently. "I'd rather hear Elio's perspective firsthand. Even if he isn't entirely truthful, I still choose to trust him." Josie let out a frustrated sigh. "You're clearly

in love. Love wouldn't be genuine if both parties were constantly governed

and asked, "Aren't you

drew closer, her voice barely above a whisper. "Josie, do you

she gazed into Candice's

to know? Why would the wealthiest

her thoughts, Josie shook her head before replying, "No, he isn't trying to swindle you

understand. He's probably trying to deceive me for... lustful reasons," Candice

again, Josie was caught off guard. She couldn't help but feel frustrated by Candice's apparent obliviousness. Continuing this discussion with her seemed increasingly challenging. "Candice, can you try to look beyond the surface?

out and placed her hand firmly on

it's clear he's not pursuing my money. He's likely interested in something physical," she replied, her

but massage her temples, feeling

Candice murmured to herself,

impressive, and his prowess in bed is undeniable. I don't see it

he's the one

novel

disadvantage."

expression froze, anger seeping into her words as she demanded, "Have you two slept