The Wrong Woman

With a smile, Michaela suggested, "Why not follow Jasper's way of addressing us?"

Candice pouted and playfully said, "No, I prefer keeping it casual with your first names—Michaela, Tristan." Her voice was as sugary-sweet as honey, her smile as innocent as a cherub's.

Tristan felt a warm glow in him at her words. His grin stretched wider, and he blurted out, "Aw, you're so sweet."

Michaela's smile faded, her demeanor turning serious. She quickly changed the subject. "Leo mentioned you'd be staying with us for a bit. We're thrilled and already set up a room for you. Let me show you there."

Candice linked her arm with Michaela's, saying, "Thank you, Michaela."

Michaela sighed, feeling somewhat defeated. Despite her displeasure, Candice's sweet tone and contagious smile made it hard to resist.

Candice followed Michaela as they climbed the stairs to check out her room, only to find she wouldn't be sharing the room with Elio.

Michaela had deliberately set up her room to be as far away from Elio's as she could manage.

It began to dawn on her why Elio seemed so spirited despite their lovemaking marathon last night. Now that they were staying at Hoffis Manor, they had to sleep in separate rooms.

Meanwhile, in the living room, Tristan strolled over to Elio and patted his shoulder.

"Hey, Dad," Elio greeted him respectfully.

Tristan offered a casual smile and said, "Candice is truly a sweetheart. I can see why you're taken with her. But your mother is considering your future. You and Candice come from different worlds."

"So, what world does she come from? And what about me?" Elio questioned challengingly.

Tristan responded earnestly, "She comes from a world bathed in sunlight, filled with laughter and warmth. On the other hand, yours is a battlefield of business, swarming with rivals who are always scheming to outmaneuver you.

"You need a partner who's more than just a pleasant distraction like Candice. You need a weapon, someone who can help you climb to the top."

Wearing a stern expression, Elio remained silent as he headed toward the study.

Tristan sighed in resignation as he watched Elio leave. He couldn't grasp Elio's perspective. Elio had always been introspective and seldom smiled since he was young. Tristan found it surprising that Elio had fallen for someone as light-hearted as Candice.

...

Candice felt her first day at the manor had gone smoothly.NôvelDrama.Org holds text © rights.

Michaela and Tristan had shown her warm affection as they always had. However, such affection felt more akin to what a person would show to a cherished granddaughter than to someone engaged to Elio.

...

The next evening, Elio was still occupied with an event, leaving Candice to head back to Hoffis Manor alone in the driver’s car after wrapping up her work. Upon her arrival, she found Josie was there.

Candice exchanged polite greetings with everyone before settling onto the couch. She listened attentively as Michaela and Josie dove into a serious discussion about the future development plans for Phoenicia, which touched upon some sensitive business details.

Josie outlined the planned expansions of the subway network and highlighted the areas designated for dynamic commercial growth.

Michaela soaked up every detail, swiftly strategizing the company's future moves.

As Candice listened, she started to understand why Michaela saw Josie as a potential daughter-in-law. Having a government official in the family could provide a substantial strategic edge in business. Even after realizing this, Candice kept her focus on the ongoing conversation.

As the evening wore on, the sky gradually darkened with the setting sun.

"Josie, why don't you stay for dinner tonight and spend the night here—" Michaela began, but her invitation was interrupted by Elio's unexpected return.

Candice's face lit up with joy like a delighted bird at the sight of him. She opened her arms wide and rushed toward him. "Elio, you're back!" Her voice was tender and sweet, her smile beaming.

Elio had just entered the living room when Candice, unable to contain her excitement, rushed toward him. Instinctively, he caught her in an embrace.

After a challenging day, her affection was exactly the solace he needed. His usually stoic face softened into a tender smile as he hugged her and whispered, "Yeah, I'm home."

Everyone in the living room, including the maids, stopped to watch in disbelief. Who could have imagined that Elio, known for his stoicism, could show such an unguarded smile?