The Wrong Woman

"I truly love you and want to marry you," Candice said earnestly.

Overcome with excitement, Elio was momentarily speechless. He gently cradled the back of her head and leaned in to kiss her deeply and passionately. His other arm wrapped tightly around her waist, pulling her close as if trying to meld her into his very being.

While they were kissing in the kitchen, Jasper entered the living room, scanning around. As he approached the kitchen door and saw what was inside, he spun around, his cheeks reddening with embarrassment. "Uncle Elio!" he called out.

Startled by Jasper's voice, Candice's face flushed as she hurriedly pushed Elio away. She gasped for breath before saying, "That was Jasper's voice."

Reluctant to break the moment, Elio murmured breathlessly, "Just ignore him."

"We can't," Candice said, placing her hands on Elio's chest and firmly pushing him back.

With a sigh, Elio finally let her go.

Candice hurried out of the kitchen into the living room. As she spotted Jasper's knowing smile and teasing gaze, a wave of embarrassment washed over her.

"Why are you here, Jasper?" Candice asked, settling onto the couch.

Jasper leaned back against the couch with a casual air. "Just checking in to see how you're settling in," he replied.

a faint smile. "I'm settling in

back to make sure you

"My mom wants me to take you back to

turned with an anxious look on

dishes and set them on the dining table. Catching Jasper's words, he approached and said

Candice has to meet your

determined to shield Candice from any discomfort. He said firmly, "There's no need to meet anyone

intent immediately.

courage and confront her challenges directly. However, Elio seemed intent

Jasper's tone turned grave.

aligned against you two. They're determined to tear you apart and Candice's outmatched by them. There's no point continuing if you both handle your relationship this

was clouded over with

glanced anxiously at Jasper, asking, "It's not that serious, is it,

sharply, "Candice, this isn't just my take. It's our

face fell, and he lapsed into silence. Candice hung her head, torn

Jasper continued with sincerity,