Ch. 841..850

Chapter 841

Daniel asked, "What if you change your mind?"

Sienna replied without hesitation, "I won't change my mind."

Daniel smiled lightly as he asked, "How can you guarantee the future?"

"Honey, you're being so realistic," Sienna said helplessly.

Holding her hand, Daniel walked around the villa, expressing his genuine concerns. "Darling, I love you very much. If I could live to be a hundred years old, I'd love you until then.

"But if I can't, I'm worried that my parents, brothers, and sisters-in-law will divide my wealth. You won't get much, and there's no guarantee for your future."

It turned out that this was his unassured worry. He was not afraid of Sienna changing her mind. Sienna looked at him, unable to hold back her tears.

A week later, on a dark and windy night in a remote corner of the island, a speedboat slowly approached.

A bright light illuminated the entire cabin. A man stood on the gangplank, holding a rifle in his hand.

After the speedboat docked, the man waited on the speedboat for a while. A figure emerged from the bushes and boarded the boat.

"Alex, everything is ready."

Alex patted the man's shoulder and said, "You did a great job. Let's set sail."

As the man turned around, a muffled bang echoed and a sniper bullet came from a distance, directly killing the armed man. The man fell instantly.

Alex was startled. She quickly picked up the rifle, and anxiously looked around. Another muffled gunshot came. Alex's arm was hit, the pain contorting her features. Soon, police officers poured in from all directions, and several yachts surrounded her speedboat.

Clutching her bloodied arm, Alex stared at the approaching police She glared at Daniel sinisterly, a cold smile playing on her lips. Even when facing death, she showed no fear. All she felt was resentment.

Ryan took out handcuffs, holding a gun in one hand and the handcuffs in the other. A few of them boarded the speedboat and quickly handcuffed Alex.

Daniel said coldly, "Three years. I've been waiting for this moment for three years."

Alex sneered through gritted teeth, "Back then, I should have killed you."

"Do you regret it?" Daniel grabbed

her arm, pulling her in front of him,

enunciating each word, "You produced and trafficked drugs,. harming countless people and families. Even without me, your fate

would have been the samene

Alex smirked sinisterly. "I don't regret it."

"Let's see if you can still say that when you're on the gallows." With that, Daniel pulled her arm and personally escorted her off the boat.

After putting her in the police car, Daniel looked up at the sky. The night was dark, without a single star. But he felt that the night sky tonight was beautiful.

Ryan walked over and patted him on the shoulder excitedly. "Congratulations, you finally caught this big criminal, avenged the past, and made a great contribution!"

Daniel smiled bitterly and got into the car without uttering a word.

The police car's siren sounded in the middle of the night like an exhilarating symphony.

Eight months later, Daniel was promoted to supervisor. He was no longer on the front lines, allowing him more time to accompany Sienna.

Sienna's pregnancy went smoothly. The baby developed well, and all the prenatal checks showed no issues.

Her family treated her well, pampering her like a princess. They did not allow her to work, tire herself out, or do any heavy lifting. They made sure Sienna was happy and stress-free every day.

Daniel made time to be with her daily, spending time with their unborn child, listening to music, and reading storybooks. Sienna felt like she was back in her carefree childhood, waking up happy every day.

As her due date approached, Daniel

1.n

started his paternity leave, accompanying her 24 hours a day Even when she went to the bathroom, he stood guard at the door chatting with her to ensure she was safe before he could relax.

Chapter 842

Chapter 842

In the third trimester of Sienna's pregnancy, Daniel took care of everything for her, from washing her hair to helping her bathe. She didn't need to lift a finger.

She had always loved Daniel deeply, but now she felt that he was her entire world. She couldn't imagine living without him.

Their baby was a little angel too. Despite the heaviness of her belly, Sienna felt no discomfort and was incredibly at ease in her late pregnancy. Even the due date was perfectly on time.

Daniel had packed the hospital bag, and as he turned around, he saw Sienna coming out of the bathroom. She said, "Honey, I think my water just broke."

"What does that mean?" Daniel asked curiously.

Sienna, looking slightly nervous, replied, "It means our baby might be born today."

Excitement flooded Daniel. He quickly grabbed a coat and helped Sienna put it on. "Are you in pain?" he asked.

"No," Sienna replied.

"Our little one must not want to trouble Mommy too much," Daniel said. Sienna nodded with a smile.

He picked up the prepared suitcase and took Sienna's hand. "Darling, let's go to the hospital."

Supporting her belly, Sienna walked alongside him, feeling happy. "Honey, I'm so excited. Do you think it will be a boy or a girl?"

"Fifty-fifty," Daniel said, elated. "We'll know by tomorrow at the latest."

"Should we tell Mom and Dad?"

"Let's wait until we get to the hospital and the doctors have an estimate. Then we'll inform them."

"Okay."

Daniel helped her into the car and carefully buckled her seatbelt.

At the maternity hospital, Sienna was admitted to a VIP ward.

Daniel unpacked everything and brought in lots of delicious food. They watched comedy films and enjoyed snacks together, laughing and talking as they waited for the baby to arrive.

Sienna would occasionally grimace as her contractions tightened, but she would laugh at the funny scenes in the movie.

When the contractions became more intense, Daniel massaged her belly, showing deep concern for her comfort and doing breathing exercises with her to ease the pain.

Sienna, not wanting to worry him, tried to stay strong. She bit her lip to keep herself from crying out.

As the timing of the contractions

grew closer together and the pain got more unbearable for Sienna, the doctor checked her progress and decided it was time for an epidural. Daniel readily agreed.

After the epidural, Sienna relaxed in Daniel's arms, eating snacks and watching the movie. Florence and Gary arrived at the hospital, thrilled. They were relieved to see that

Sienna was not in much pain.

In the VIP ward, the four of them watched comedies and enjoyed the food. When the nurse came in, she found the room full of laughter.

"Are you in pain?" the nurse asked.

Sienna smiled lightly. "A bit, but it's bearable."

"We just checked, and you're almost fully dilated. It's time to go to the delivery room," the nurse said.

Daniel stood up first, tense. "Doctor, I want to be there with her."

"It's best if fathers don't go in," the nurse suggested.

Sienna quickly added, "Honey, you can't go in."

"I have to be there. I won't feel at ease otherwise," Daniel insisted.

Sienna didn't want Daniel to see her in such a painful and bloody state. "No, if you insist on coming in, I won't give birth," she pouted, pretending to be upset.

Daniel immediately backed down, gently soothing her. "Alright, don't be upset. I won't go in. But promise me you'll come out safely."

"Okay," Sienna said, her smile returning.

With her family and the doctor accompanying her, Sienna was wheeled into the delivery room.

Chapter 843

Chapter 843

Sienna gave birth to a healthy baby girl without any complications. The entire Morrison family was overjoyed, but no one was more excited than Daniel.

Seeing Sienna and their baby exit the delivery room safely, tears of joy filled his eyes as he tightly embraced Sienna, unwilling to let go.

The next day, the VIP ward was bustling with visitors. There was a dedicated maternity nurse for Sienna and a caregiver for the newborn.

The entire Morrison family had gathered. Thankfully, the ward was spacious enough to accommodate everyone in the family.

Around the crib, six men stood in a tight circle, forming an impenetrable wall. These men were Gary and his five sons. Even Mila and Nathan had rushed back from the frontier. The newborn baby girl, just a day old, was fair-skinned, adorable, and irresistibly cute. Her cuteness, even while sleeping with her eyes closed, could melt anyone's heart.

The six men surrounding her couldn't take their eyes off her, each completely enamored. Everyone envied Daniel.

Taylor remarked, "How can she be so beautiful already? When my son was born, he was quite ugly, but he grew into his looks." Tobias gushed, "Now we have a little princess in the family. I can't wait for her to call me Uncle Toby in her sweet little voice."

Duke sighed, "Daniel's really lucky. I have two sons and always wanted a daughter."

Gary exclaimed, "I finally have a granddaughter, haha!"

Daniel hesitated, "She's so tiny, I'm afraid to hold her."

Nathan said, "I've always wanted a daughter. It's great to have a niece now."

Daniel smiled, "One daughter is enough for our family."

"You're so lucky, Daniel. She's the only little princess in our family."

"Yeah, she'll have five uncles doting on her and five cousins who'll adore her," another added.

"I really want to hold her."

"No, she's sleeping. We can't wake her," another replied. "Why don't I, the eldest uncle, name her?" Taylor suggested. "No way, it should be me, her grandfather," Gary insisted.

"I should name her. I was the top student in the province."

"I'm her father. I'll name her myself," Daniel asserted.

The men continued their playful argument around the crib.

On the hospital bed, Sienna couldn't help but laugh. Her sisters-in-law and Florence sat beside her.

The table was overflowing with flowers and gifts, and the atmosphere was festive, almost like a holiday celebration.

Mila, holding Sienna's hand, gently squeezed it and said, "Congratulations, Sienna."

"Thank you, Chubs," Sienna replied.

Mila smiled warmly, then glanced at Nathan and sighed, "Nate really

loves daughters. It's a pity I gan neg

birth to Jasper. He must be so envious of Daniel right now

Sienna hadn't realized just how much the family valued a girl. Truly, rarity made something precious.

Wendy laughed and said, "It's not just Nate Taylor wanted a daughter too. He kept asking me to try for one, but after having one child couldn't bear to go through that pain again."

Sienna looked back at Wendy and said, "With an epidural, it's not that painful."

Wendy responded, "When I gave birth, epidurals weren't common. Giving birth almost cost me my life."

Sienna glanced at Mila, full of

empathy. When Mila had given birth, it had been a close call as well. Even though Nathan wanted a daughter, they weren't planning on having more children.

"Exactly," Cheryl agreed. "Childbirth is like risking your life."

Sienna nodded and replied, "Yes, it is."

Florence asked, "Chubs, how long are you staying this time?"

"Mom, we're staying for two months. We'll leave after the New Year," Mila replied.

Florence was overjoyed. "That's wonderful! You live on the frontier all year. I miss you both so much."

Chapter 844

Chapter 844

"Jasper will start kindergarten after the New Year holidays. He'll stay here, and we'll need your help to take care of him while we're at the frontier," Mila explained. Florence nodded quickly. "Don't worry. I'll take good care of him."

As a new mother, Sienna felt a pang of sympathy at the thought of a child being separated from his parents. "Chubs, are you sure you don't want to keep Jasper with you? It's so heartbreaking for a child to be away from his parents for so long."

Mila sighed, resigned, "Some children are destined to bear their unique burdens from birth. I'm a scientist, and Nate is a general in national defense. Jasper's life is different from others." Sienna nodded, lips pressed together.

Mila reassured her. "We'll visit him during our breaks, and he can come to the frontier during his holidays. The actual time apart won't be as much as it seems. It's going to be alright."

Wendy chimed in, "It's good for him to stay here. There are plenty of children around, and it's always lively. There's laughter and joy every day, it's wonderful."

"Exactly."

The ward was filled with warmth and chatter. Men and women formed their groups, watching over the children, and keeping each other company.

In Norvania, New Year was a time for family reunions and joy.

The colorful lights illuminated the entire garden of the Morrison Residence. Inside the bustling villa, everyone had gathered with their spouses and children, filling the space with laughter and conversation.

The adults chatted happily while the children played around, and the maids busied themselves with meal preparations.

Outside, a full moon hung in the sky, adding a poetic touch to the beautiful night. The temperature was rather low and chilly. Sienna and Mila sat on a long bench in the garden, gazing up at the sky. Mila couldn't help but ask, "Sienna, are you happy now?" Sienna smiled softly. "Yes, I'm very happy. Thank you for introducing me to Daniel. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be here today." Mila looked puzzled. "What does it have to do with me?"

"You were the one who recommended me for the job here to take care of Daniel. Without you, I would never have met him." Mila found Sienna's words made sense and nodded in understanding.

Sienna then asked, "Chubs, what about you? Are you happy?"

Mila smiled sweetly and answered without hesitation, "I'm very happy, Sienna. Nate and I have known each other since we were kids. He had always liked me and treated me well. His fove for me is much deeper than mine for him. I'm truly happy." en.s

Hearing this, Sienna felt a warm satisfaction. They shared a knowing smile, then continued their

conversation, reminiscing about the past, discussing their lives, work,

children, and husbands.ond

had deepened over time,

transitioning from friends to sisters-in-law. en.s

After a while, Nathan came out with a coat in his hands, looking around until he spotted Mila. He walked over and draped the coat over her shoulders, speaking softly, "I's cold out here. Let's go inside." en.s

Mila looked up at him, murmuring, "I'm not cold."

Sienna interjected, "Chubs, you should go inside. Nate will worry if you get sick."

Nathan added, "Sienna, Daniel was looking for you inside."

Just then, Daniel appeared. "Darling, what are you doing out here in the cold?"

Sienna replied, "I was chatting with Chubs."

Nathan gently guided Mila back inside. Daniel sat down beside Sienna, wrapping her in his coat and pulling her into his embrace. They both gazed up at the stars. Sienna looked up and leaned in Daniel's embrace. "Honey, there are so many stars tonight."

"Yeah, it's beautiful."

"Is Candice asleep?"

"Yeah, the nanny is looking after her."

Sienna's smile grew brighter as she nestled closer to Daniel, gazing at the starry night and enjoying the moment.

Overwhelmed with affection, Daniel couldn't resist kissing her softly and whispering, "I love you, Darling."

Even after more than a year of marriage, Sienna still blushed at his words.

Chapter 845

Chapter 845

However, Sienna still mustered the courage to respond gently, "I love you too, Honey."

Sienna's daughter was named Candice, a name given by Florence.

Initially, Gary and his sons all vied to name the little girl, but amidst the fervor of discussion, none of their suggestions gained traction. Instead, Florence's spontaneous suggestion was accepted. Thus, she became Candice, or simply Candy. She was the darling of the family, showered with boundless love by all.

From a tender age, Candice was bright, sweet-natured, and exceptionally adorable.

When she started kindergarten, the entire family rallied to give her a grand enrollment ceremony. The celebration was so extravagant that it startled her teachers.

Several imposing men, holding banners and gifts of flowers and lollipops, played instruments at the kindergarten gate, making a spectacular scene.

Long after Candice had entered, they lingered outside, reluctant to depart. Upon inquiry, it turned out these enthusiastic family members were Candice's grandfather, father, and uncles.

It was said that distant relations were close kin. Yet, her closest companions were her elder cousins, who doted on her excessively, sometimes leading to bouts of jealousy and all sorts of quarrels.

If questioned, Candice would lament the burden of overwhelming love, often leaving her feeling troubled.

It was then on Candice's tenth birthday that her fourth cousin brother, Jasper, introduced her to a melancholic and strikingly handsome young man.

"Candice, meet my uncle, Elio!" Jasper declared.

Elio was Mila's younger brother and heir to the wealthiest family in Norvania. He was different from others, disliking Candice and finding her bothersome. He deliberately avoided her during his visits to Jasper. However, upon their initial encounter, Candice found herself drawn to Elio's charm and melancholic demeanor.

After Zach's passing, the

responsibility of the Hoffis family's

business fell upon Tristan and

Michaela Consumed by their duties for their huge family business, they neglected Elio, leaving him to navigate childhood in loneliness. en.s

With numerous children in the Morrison family, all around Elio's age, he found solace in their company He often visited and hung out with Jasper. Given Jasper's familiarity with Elio, the other children followed suit, addressing him as an uncle. en.s

Candice was ten years old back then while Elio was 15, and she developed an admiration for him upon first sight.

At the age of 12, Candice joined Jasper and Elio for a climbing expedition. Candice was bitten by a snake, and despite the danger, Elio risked his safety to suck out the venom. In the end, both of them ended up being poisoned.

Fortunately, most of the venom in her body was extracted and the situation wasn't dire. Elio and Candice were hospitalized, treated, and eventually recovered, sparing them from the harrowing ordeal.

By the age of 15, Elio was 20. He

ventured into college and got into a relationship: He deliberately introduced his girlfriend to Candice, prompting Candice to hide her tears in her quilt, her eyes swollen from the silent weeping. en.s

She dared not tell anyone that she had secretly admired Elio for five years. Alarmed by her swollen eyes, her family rushed her to the hospital for a comprehensive examination.

At 20, Elio was 25. While Elio embarked on further studies abroad, Candice pursued her university education.

The boy she had secretly admired for ten years left Norvania. Candice felt like her world had crumbled and she felt muddled every day. Whenever she thought of Elio, she would secretly cry.

Enduring two more years of heartache, she stepped into her twenty-second year, ready to embrace adulthood and a career. Unexpectedly, she crossed paths with Elio once more. It turned out, Elio was back and he was her boss.

Chapter 846

Chapter 846

"Candice, something's wrong! You're not on the confirmation list!" Vanessa Yates, shifting her office chair closer, urgently whispered to Candice, "Hurry and check the email. Your name isn't there." Candice's beautiful face instantly fell. In disbelief, she grabbed her mouse and clicked open the company email.

She murmured to herself, "That's impossible. I passed the three-month evaluation, and my design was selected for the next season's collection. Why isn't my name there?"

Vanessa, equally perplexed, suggested, "I don't know why. You should ask the director."

Candice scanned the email again. Every intern's name was listed except hers.

Vanessa leaned in, frustration in her voice. "This is unfair. You've been the best performer among the interns. Why is your name missing?"

Candice released the mouse and clenched her fists, her eyes welling up. It wasn't just about the job; she knew she could find work elsewhere.

What stung was the excellence she had consistently shown, earning praise from colleagues and superiors, making her conversion to a permanent position seem certain.

But ever since Elio returned from abroad and took over ND Group, her name was the only one to vanish from the confirmation list of the four interns. The bias was glaringly obvious.

A cold sensation gripped her heart, causing a dull, aching pain. Tears filled her eyes as she grappled with the realization that the man she had secretly loved for 12 years despised her to this extent.

Noticing her distress, Vanessa caressed her back and tried to comfort her. "Candice, you should speak with the director. Maybe it's just a clerical error."

Candice took a deep breath and shook her head. "It's not the director's doing. This is perhaps the new CEO's decision."

"Why?" Vanessa asked, bewildered. "In terms of efficiency, capability, talent, and even looks, how could you lose to the other three interns?"

Candice forced a bitter smile, remaining silent.

Vanessa's eyes widened in realization. "Does the CEO have a grudge against you?"

Candice sighed softly, "Maybe."

Later that evening, Candice stepped out of the ND building. With lights and shadow intertwined, the sunset bathed the world in a beautiful, soft red hue. A luxury car pulled up in front of her. Seeing it, Candice forced a smile. en.s

The car door opened, and a handsome young man stepped out, his warm smile radiant. "Candice, I'm here to pick you up."

"Jasper," Candice greeted with a faint smile.

Jasper affectionately patted her head. "Was work tiring?"

Her body wasn't tired, but her heart was. Still, she chose to focus on the positive. "No."

Jasper walked to the trunk and pulled out a pair of fluffy slippers and a bottle of water. He set the slippers in front of Candice and handed her the opened water. en.s

Candice, used to her brothers' pampering, smiled appreciatively. "Thanks, Jasper."

She slipped off her high heels, put on the slippers, took a sip of water, and asked quietly, "Why are you free to pick me up today?"

"Elio is back, and our grandparents

are hosting a banquet for him. They're planning to announce something important," Jasper said as he carried her high heels and led her to the passenger seat. "I'm here to take you to the event." en.s

Candice got in and buckled her seatbelt. As Jasper settled into the driver's seat, her face fell. She whispered, "Jasper, I don't want to go."

Chapter 847

Chapter 847

"Why aren't you going? The whole family will be there," Jasper said as he started the car and drove off.

Candice remained silent.

Jasper continued, coaxing softly, "Candice, how about we get your makeup done and find a lovely evening gown? Just come along to the banquet with me, alright?"

Candice, with her naturally gentle disposition, found it difficult to resist her brother's request. She nodded in acquiescence.

The opulent Hoffis Manor gleamed with grandeur. Crystal chandeliers cast a radiant glow over the expansive ballroom, exuding an aura of luxury and sophistication. Soft, melodic music filled the air, mingling with the chatter and laughter of the elite guests.

Being the richest family in Norvania, the Hoffis family's banquet was attended predominantly by aristocrats and dignitaries.

The entire Morrison family was present.

Candice's uncles were huddled together, complaining to Tristan.

"What spell did you cast on Candice that she insisted on working for your company?" Duke grumbled.

Tristan laughed innocently, "I didn't even know Candice was working for us."

Taylor chimed in, "I offered her the funds to start her own business, but she refused. I even suggested she take the role of vice president at my company, but she said she couldn't do it."

Tobias added, "I planned to make a few blockbuster movies to kick-start her acting career, but she wasn't interested. She insisted on joining ND Group as a designer and working for your family."

"In my opinion, Candice shouldn't be working at all. We can easily support her without her having to work," Taylor concluded.

Tristan couldn't help but laugh as he looked toward the entrance. "Candice is here."

All eyes turned to the entrance.

Candice walked in with Jasper, dressed in an elegant, off-white evening gown that was both sophisticated and sweet.

Taylor waved them over, signaling Jasper to bring Candice to their group.

"Candice, Uncle Taylor wants us to join them," Jasper said to Candice.

Candice smiled sweetly at her uncles.

Suddenly, a waiter in uniform

carrying a tray of wine accidentally bumped into Candice, spilling red wine all over her gown. The commotion drew everyone's attention. en.s

Caught off guard, Candice couldn't react in time, her gown stained with wine. She stepped back and collided with Jasper.

Jasper quickly steadied her, his face darkening with anger. He stormed over and grabbed the waiter by the collar.

"I-I'm sorry, Ms. Candice Morrison

Jasper Morrison. I didn't et

stammered, trembling in fear. en.s

43 It was an accident!" the

Jasper gritted his teeth. "I think you did it on purpose."

Candice, ignoring the wine so t

her dress, quickly intervened. "Jasper, don't make it difficult

for

him. 'll just change my clothes. It's

no big deal, really."

to en.s

Immediately, a swarm of men rushed over from all directions, surrounding Candice with anxious concern.

The noise was overwhelming, echoing in her ears.

Candice looked around and sighed, "Everyone, I'm fine. It's just a stained dress. There's nothing to worry about." Jasper quickly interjected, "Luckily, I brought three evening gowns. Two are still in the car. I'll go get them now." Sienna and Daniel approached.

"Candice, are you alright?" Sienna asked.

Candice managed a smile. "Mom, Dad, I'm fine."

"Follow Jasper to Aunt Chubs' room to change," Daniel instructed.

"Okay." Candice remained calm and nodded apologetically at the server. "I'm sorry for bumping into you earlier."

 

Chapter 848

Chapter 848

The waiter stood still, his eyes betraying a hint of guilt.

Michaela and Tristan approached, showing concern for Candice.

Candice, who always addressed them as her grandparents like Jasper, quickly apologized, "Grandpa, Grandma, I'm sorry for interrupting your guests."

"It's alright, dear. Go and change your clothes quickly."

Candice nodded, about to leave, but not before pleading, "The waiter didn't do it on purpose, please don't blame him."

The elders sighed, nodding with a smile.

They couldn't help but admire her for being such a kind and sensible girl, yet so innocent that she couldn't see the darkness in people's hearts.

Other guests began whispering to each other.

"Who is she? A minor incident has grabbed the attention of all the men in the entire Morrison family, even the two elders from the Hoffis family are showing such concern."

"She's Gary's granddaughter, the treasured gem of the Morrison family."

"She's not your average person. Her mother is a famous romance novelist, her father is a chief police officer.

"Her eldest and third uncles are both business tycoons, her second uncle is a giant in the entertainment industry. Her fifth uncle is a defense general, and her fifth aunt is from the Hoffis family, and the most famous chemist of our time, Mila."

"She must have saved the entire galaxy in her previous life to be lucky enough to be born into the Morrison family."

"Haha!"

Candice walked out of the banquet hall, through the corridor, and encountered a man and a woman walking toward her.

Her steps halted abruptly.

The man donned an impeccably tailored designer suit, exuding elegance and charm. His face, handsome and aloof, showed no expression as he looked at Candice, noticing her wine-stained gown.

Candice's heart skipped a beat.

Panic surged within her, making

120

feel pinned down and unable to ver

Povel

move as she faced the man

ahead-Elio. en.s

Beside Elio stood a woman of alluring grace, Josie Wallace, who was probably his fiancée by now.

Candice's breath caught, her heart-wrenching with discomfort as she politely greeted, "Uncle Elio, Josie, good evening."

Josie wore a worried expression as she inquired, "Candice, what happened to your dress?"

Candice's voice softened as she

"I accidentallyet

into a waiter holding a tray.

to fetch me another dress." en.s

Josie quickly responded, "Then you should go quickly."

Candice nodded politely, lowering her head as she passed by the two.

Making space for Candice, Josie shifted closer to Elio.

Candice felt every cell in her body tense, almost unable to breathe.

Just passing by Elio, her heart felt tight and uncomfortable. Meeting Elio made her feel uneasy each time.

She had just walked past when Elio's magnetic voice came, cold and distant, with a hint of anger. "Candice."

Candice froze, nervously swallowing as she turned to look at him. Hesitantly, she spoke, "Uncle—"

Before she could finish, Elio sharply interrupted, "Do you have a memory of a goldfish? How many times do I have to correct you?"

A pang of discomfort shot through Candice's heart, recalling his previous words.

"Candice, I'm not your uncle. Please don't call me uncle when you see me in the future, and don't try to claim any relation with me."

She quietly took a breath. Her heart felt uncomfortably heavy, her eyes dampening with tears. With a soft voice, she said, "I'm sorry, MrHoffis.

I'll pay attention next timis.

belongs to en.s

Elio's eyebrows slightly furrowed, his face darkening.

Candice unconsciously gripped her dress. Enduring the discomfort in her heart, she turned around and strode away.

Chapter 849

Chapter 849

Candice slipped into a new evening gown, touched up her makeup, and glided back into the banquet hall.

The ambiance inside remained lively and effervescent. Casually, she made her way to the side, and upon reaching the dining area; she selected her favorite dishes from the table.

Meanwhile, Michaela and Tristan approached the stage, each holding a wine glass. With a resonating voice, Tristan began, "Thank you, esteemed guests..."

Candice stole a glance at the duo on stage, observing their radiant smiles and eloquent words. These formalities and social graces were nothing new to her.

As the toasts circulated, she pondered whether to indulge in dessert tonight. However, thoughts of potential weight gain and skin issues held her back. Maintaining her appearance and figure mattered, which meant carefully considering her diet.

Opting against dessert, she settled for pumpkin soup instead.

After Tristan's speech of pleasantries concluded, Michaela's voice filled the room. "Tonight, I'd like to take this opportunity to share some joyful news. My son, Elio, will be engaged to Josie next month. We hope to see all of you there."

Hearing the announcement, Candice froze in place, her body going rigid, and the plate with food in her hand slipped, clattering onto the table. Despite the loud noise, it was drowned out by the enthusiastic applause from the crowd.

Her ears buzzed, drowning out all sound except the chaos around her. A sharp pain pierced her heart, leaving her vulnerable.

It hurt so much!

Bowing her head, she slowly began to collect the scattered items. Her throat tightened and tears began welling up in her eyes.

Elio had been away for two years, and now he was suddenly back, engaged to Josie.

It had been 12 long years, and perhaps it was time for Candice to face reality.

Candice brushed away a tear, ensuring no one noticed her inner turmoil.

From the age of ten, her feelings had evolved from innocent admiration to adolescent infatuation, and eventually to unrequited love in.

adulthood. She had we.net"

bittersweet journey of admiration alone. en.s

The secret of her loving her cousin's uncle was guarded closely by herself, fearful of confiding in anyone.

It was a forbidden love, one that could never be openly acknowledged or shared. She had navigated the highs and lows alone, in silence.

"Are you okay, Candice?" came a gentle, concerned voice.

Candice looked up at the man beside her. It was her eldest cousin, Hector Morrison.

Their eyes met, and Hector noticed the redness in Candice's eyes, the shimmering tears.

Alarmed, he hastily placed his wine glass down, gently cupping Candice's face. "What's wrong? Who upset you? Tell me, what happened? Did someone hurt our precious girl?" en.swhovels

Candice's heart raced, torn between truth and concealment. Sniffling nervously, she explained, "Hector, I'm not crying, really."

"Don't lie to me, those are tears, your eyes are red. Is it because of Elio's engagement...?" Hector guessed.

Before he could finish, Candice

hastily interjected, desperately

seeking an excuse. "No! Hector,

please don't think that way. I'm just

upset because out of the four

interns, I'm the only one not offered

a permanent position. I'll be

unemployed after this week."

en.s

Hector was taken aback. "What?"

Candice's lip quivered, her tears threatening to spill over. "Yes, I didn't make it into the confirmation list. After this week's work, I'll be unemployed." Hector was furious. "It's an honor for them to have you at ND Group. How could they not offer you a permanent position? Come, I'll get justice for you!" Candice panicked. "No, Hector, really..."

Hector gently took her hand and guided her toward the center of the banquet.

Chapter 850

Chapter 850

On the other side of the banquet hall, Elio's face wore an unusually grim expression, his demeanor impassive despite his friends' congratulations. Even Josie approached him and murmured, "What's going on? Why didn't you tell me that we're getting engaged next month?"

Elio simply raised his glass and downed it in one go.

Jasper walked over, smiling. "Uncle Elio, congratulations. Josie, congratulations to you too. Should I start calling you Aunt Josie?"

Josie quickly interjected, "No, don't call me that, you're making me sound old."

"Uncle Elio is like a generation before us, it's unavoidable," Jasper laughed, then turned to Elio, noticing his somber expression. "Why do you look so unhappy? Who upset you?" Elio's cold gaze met Jasper's, and he uttered a single word, "You."

Jasper was baffled. "How did I upset you?"

At that moment, Hector's angry voice boomed, "Elio!"

All eyes turned toward Hector, who was leading Candice toward Elio. Elio's gaze darkened slightly as he looked at the timid Candice and the furious Hector.

Hector pulled Candice in front of Elio and demanded, "Why won't you let Candice be confirmed as a permanent employee?"

Candice, feeling nervous and guilty, kept her head down, unable to meet his eyes. She wished she could disappear and avoid hearing Hector demand the so-called "justice" for her in front of Elio. Jasper was astonished. "What? Candice is going to be dismissed?"

Hector glared at Elio. "What's going on? Explain yourself."

Jasper looked displeased as he turned to Elio. "Uncle Elio, our family's business is doing well. No matter what job Candice wants, our family will fully support her.

"Since she's determined to work at ND Group, you shouldn't dismiss her, both publicly or personally."

Elio's gaze darkened slightly as he responded, "I've just taken over, and there are many matters still in transition. I haven't had time to handle human resources issues."

Candice looked up at him in shock. It turned out Elio wasn't the one planning to dismiss her. If not him, then was it the director?

Elio gazed into Candice's clear and teary eyes, feeling a pang of sympathy. Was she crying over a job? How much did she love her work?

Hector's anger subsided, and he said gently, "If that's the case, take care of Candice's confirmation after you go back."

Josie chimed in with a smile, "Could

the

it be that Candice's job performance isn't up to par, so she didn't pas assessment and couldn't beo

confirmed?"

én.s

Candice felt a tightening in her chest, wanting to explain but hesitating. Would boasting about her abilities be too arrogant?

Hector said, displeased, "With our

family ties, what need is there for job

performance? As long as Candice is

happy working at ND Group,

pay

her salary myself." en.s

Hector's excessive indulgence was

making Candice feel utterly

embarrassed. Despite her

capabilities, being confirmed

through connections was

humiliating for her.

to en.s

Elio gazed at Candice and said softly, "Continue your work as usual. I'll handle the confirmation."

Hector lowered his head, cupping Candice's face gently, "There, there, stop crying. Now, go ahead and thank your uncle." Candice attempted to speak but found herself unable to. Elio's reluctance to be addressed as "uncle" weighed on her mind.

"Thank you, Mr. Hoffis." Candice nodded politely.

Jasper furrowed his brow. "It's awkward to call him Mr. Hoffis. What about "

Before he could finish, Elio interrupted, "Just Elio."

The rest were taken aback by Elio's words.

He added, "Just call me Elio like Hector does. Or Leo, if you prefer."

Josie's gaze darkened.

Candice looked at Hector and then at Jasper.

"Uncle Elio, isn't tha inappropriate?" Jasper said helplessly.