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?"

from ever revealing

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

directly from Elio than from someone else," Candice

isn't completely honest

lie

an opportunity, Josie hurried to speak.

raising her

a sense of purity as she smiled 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

if both parties

her voice and asked,

voice barely above a whisper. "Josie, do you think Elio

of disbelief as she gazed into Candice's innocent, wide eyes, feeling a surge

not to know? Why would the wealthiest man in Norvania seek

thoughts, Josie shook her head before replying, "No, he isn't trying to swindle you out of your money.

understand. He's probably trying to deceive me for...

help but feel frustrated by Candice's apparent obliviousness. Continuing this discussion with her seemed increasingly challenging. "Candice, can you try

of the blue, Candice reached out and placed

my money. He's likely interested in something physical," she replied, her tone

massage her temples, feeling a headache coming

Candice murmured to herself,

impressive, and his prowess in bed is undeniable.

the one at

novel

disadvantage."

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