The Wrong Woman

Candice caught Elio's smile and struggled to hold back her own.

Michaela, Tristan, and Josia paused their discussion on economics. They were surprised by the lighthearted moment between Candice and Elio over dinner.

However, the most astonishing change for them was Elio. Known for his composed, dignified, and reserved demeanor, he seemed completely different tonight. The trio was dumbfounded to find Elio laughing more in one evening than they had seen him laugh in the past year.

Elio chuckled and softly asked, "Is there more?"

Candice took a sip of her soup, paused, and began a tale, "A tortoise wanted to race a hare. But the hare, with a condescending tone, said, 'Your kind won once by fluke. Quit dreaming.'

"Undeterred, the tortoise tried every method to persuade the hare, who remained unmoved. Finally, the tortoise pulled out a wad of cash and said, 'Consider this your fee for turning up!'

"A broad grin immediately spread across the hare's face as it responded, 'Mr. Tortoise, I'll run just the way you want me to.""

The story wasn't all that funny, but Candice's sincere effort to brighten Elio's mood made him feel better. He sensed that Candice genuinely cared about him and understood his feelings. Such care and attention were the most heartwarming anecdote.

The two of them chatted and ate with delight, creating a

her room to freshen up, while Elio went to his study to work. Unable to contain herself any longer, Josie knocked on the study

door open, Josie

glanced up at her before returning his

seems like someone really interesting. You seem pretty happy

Elio hummed in

face fell. She spoke earnestly, "When the novelty of such feelings wears

abruptly closed

at Josie,

solely because she's intriguing. I truly care for her, and that's what makes her interesting to me. Can you see

and clenched her fists, her

each word. "I'm fond of her. Even if she were a lifeless doll, I would still

Even though you're exceptionally talented, skilled, attractive, and beautiful, you

a smile instead. She sighed and said, "We've been friends for so long and know each other so well, yet