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.

smile. "I'm settling

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

you back to visit Grandma Michaela tomorrow to talk

turned with an anxious look

them on the dining table.

later, Candice has to meet your parents," Jasper replied with a

from any discomfort. He said firmly, "There's no need to meet anyone we don't

intent immediately. Meanwhile, Jasper was completely

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

Jasper's tone turned grave.

determined to tear you apart and Candice's outmatched by them. There's no point

face was clouded

anxiously at Jasper, asking, "It's not that

indifference, Jasper replied sharply, "Candice, this isn't just my take. It's

he lapsed into silence. Candice hung her head, torn

Jasper continued with sincerity,