The Wrong Woman

Elio's expression hardened abruptly. "No way," he said firmly.

Jasper and Candice were taken aback. They stared at Elio's concerned face.

"Why?" Candice asked.

"You won't be able to change their minds. Staying with them will only bring you more suffering and harm. I disagree," Elio replied.

"That's not true. They've always treated me kindly," Candice argued.

"Candice, things are different now. You're not in the same position as you were before."

"I want to try, Elio. Please, can you just let me try? I believe I can convince them to accept me."

Jasper supported her, adding, "I'm with you on this, Candice."

Elio shot Jasper a cold glare. "Don't you have anything better to do today?"

Jasper shrugged. "Not really. Even though my mom's far away, she's really concerned about Candice's marriage. She insisted I keep an eye on her."

for discussion," Elio

meaningful glance at

and moved to sit beside Elio, gently hugging his arm. "Elio, can you please let me try? Maybe

and his voice took on a soothing tone as he replied, "Candice, I know them better than you do. It's not going to change anything no matter

up her forehead,

for your secret

demeanor shifted dramatically at Jasper's suggestion. Her lips quivered as though she was on the verge of tears, her big, round eyes welling up. In a tremulous voice,

had never seen Candice

incredibly vulnerable. Her

of control, Elio reached out to cradle her face. "Candice, it's not what you think... I do love you.

to pack my things and go home!" Candice snapped, shoving Elio's hands aside in

after

it off. He reached for her again, only for her to slip

pulled her into his arms and softly pleaded, "Candice, please don't do this. I'll listen to you and do whatever you

covered his mouth to

raised her hand and flashed an "okay" gesture to Jasper, who

pampered all her life, Candice had mastered the art of playing the innocent. A few tears from her were

didn't invite Jasper to stay for dinner, opting instead for some alone time with