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.

faint smile. "I'm

responded earnestly. "My mom's on my back to make sure you and Uncle Elio tie

chuckled and continued, "My mom wants me to take you back to visit Grandma Michaela tomorrow to

with an anxious look on her

emerged from the kitchen with a few dishes and set them on the dining

Elio, you can't keep avoiding this. Sooner or later, Candice has to meet your parents," Jasper replied

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

Elio's intent immediately. Meanwhile, Jasper was completely

challenges directly. However, Elio

Jasper's tone turned grave.

are alt aligned against you two. They're determined to tear you apart and Candice's outmatched by

clouded over

asking, "It's

their indifference, Jasper replied sharply, "Candice, this isn't just

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

Jasper continued with sincerity,