Ch. 941..950

Chapter 941

When Candice shifted in her sleep, a sharp tug on her hair jolted her awake. Wincing in pain, she let out a whimper. As her eyes fluttered open, she realized she was in Elio's embrace. Both of them nestled together under the blankets, skin against skin.

Her cry stirred Elio awake. He looked at her with bleary eyes, his voice gentle yet tinged with concern as he asked, "Candice, what's wrong?"

Candice quickly pulled the blanket closer to her chest, embarrassment flooding her cheeks as she responded, "You're lying on my hair."

Elio immediately lifted his arm to free her.

Candice scooted away from his embrace, feeling bashful as her eyes darted around the room. She couldn't help but steal a glance at his well-defined abs. With a soft voice, she asked, "How did I end up in your room?"

Elio offered a faint smile. "This is your room, too."

Candice scratched her head, her recollection of the previous night was hazy. She vaguely remembered having a few drinks before everything went dark. Alcohol never sat well with her, often leaving her drunk after just a few sips.

"Did we..." Candice's voice trailed off as she shyly lifted the blanket to peek at herself before hastily covering up again. Her cheeks flushed as she stuttered, "We... did that again?"

Elio's expression turned slightly crestfallen. "You forgot?"

Candice nodded in response.

Elio chuckled, feeling somewhat regretful as he realized Candice's memory lapse meant she had forgotten the passion, the uninhibited nature, and how captivating she was the night before.

No man could resist the allure of a woman he loved showing boldness and initiative in bed.

At that moment, Elio had a sudden epiphany about the wonders of alcohol. He wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close, rolling over so that she was beneath him. His eyes brimmed with warmth and affection as he gazed at her.

Candice's nerves fluttered as she asked, "I didn't do anything embarrassing last night, did I?"

Elio's thoughts drifted back to her unexpected entrance into the bathroom while he was showering, and even to her boldly stripping down to join him. He wondered if those moments could be considered embarrassing. Yet, he murmured affectionately, "No."

"Then we "

Elio cut her off and explained, "I

couldn't resist." He kissed her forehead and continued softly, "Since we're living together now, fet's not bother with separate rooms. My thoughts and actions seem to have a mind of their own around you."

Candice's gaze dropped, her cheeks flushing a deep red as she mumbled, "I tend to toss and turn at night. I'm worried I'll disturb your sleep."

"You didn't. You slept on my shoulder the entire night, looking peaceful and sweet."

Candice looked up to meet his intense, captivating gaze. Elio's eyes seemed to burn with a fiery intensity. He tenderly caressed her cheek, his lips slowly making their way down to her neck.

She watched him with rising uneasiness. His Adam's apple bobbed noticeably, and his lips parted slightly as he took a deep breath. His body began to respond.

Sensing his intent, Candice

swallowed nervously. When Elio

pressed his body tightly against hers, awareness flooded her senses, causing her chest to feel hot and constricted. She took a deep breath and pressed her lips together.

The temperature rose between them. Filled with restless desire, Elio murmured, "May I?"

"It's already morning. Shouldn't you be heading to work?" Candice replied shyly.

"I've got nothing pressing."

"But I have to go to work," Candice protested softly.

"Take the day off. I'll approve it," said Elio.

A bashful smile spread across Candice's face. She closed her eyes and nodded in agreement.

Elio pinned her hands above her head to the pillow, their fingers intertwined. He kissed her shoulder, trailed his kisses to her neck, and nibbled teasingly.

Candice bit her lip in an attempt to contain the overwhelming sensations, but her efforts were futile as soft, shy moans escaped her lips. Once again, they found themselves lost in a vigorous morning "workout". Elio was in the prime of his life, his energy seemingly boundless.

Chapter 942

The world around Candice and Elio faded as they surrendered to their passion in bed. On the first day of living together, they took the day off from work. They made love in the morning, and again after lunch in the study.

Exhausted, they cuddled and drifted off into a nap. As dusk fell, Candice had just stepped out of the shower when Elio drew her back to the bed. Their passionate encounter stretched late into the night.

Much like any couple enraptured by love, their moments together were wild, unrestrained, and brimming with passion. They experienced an unparalleled sense of release both physically and emotionally.

Perhaps due to oversleeping, Candice awoke in the middle of the night. She reached for her phone, only to find it turned off. This explained why she hadn't received any calls all day. She had assumed her family simply wasn't worried about her.

Upon powering the phone back on, she was greeted by dozens of missed calls-all from Mervyn and a slew of messages. Among them was a text from Sienna.

"Candice, why is your phone off? Elio mentioned you're staying at his place and are doing fine, so I shouldn't worry. But please, get back to me as soon as you see this. Mervyn stopped by looking for you. He seemed quite anxious."

"Mom, I'm fine. Don't worry about me," Candice texted back to Sienna. Then, she climbed out of bed, stepped onto the balcony, and dialed Mervyn's number.

The connecting tone sounded briefly before Mervyn answered the call. His voice was thick with anxiety as he asked, "Candice, where have you been? Why didn't you answer my calls or respond to my messages all day? Your family said you weren't at home. Where did you go? Where—"

Candice cut him off. "Stop, stop, stop. You're bombarding me with questions. How can I answer them all at once?"

Mervyn took a deep breath and calmed himself before asking, "Where are you?"

"At my fiancé's house," Candice replied.

"Elio's house?" Mervyn's voice carried a hint of displeasure.

"Yes."

"Are you living together?"

"Yes."

Mervyn struggled to keep his anger in check. "Candice, are you out of your mind? You're not even married yet, and you're already living

together. When did you start behaving like this? You weren't like this before."

12

Candice felt exasperated. She had always been well-behaved, but that didn't mean she was conservative She was open to premarital sex, particularly with Elio, who was not only her fiancé but had already shown his commitment through

generous engagement gifts.

Not wanting to delve further into the topic, Candice shifted the conversation. "What's so urgent that you need to find me?"

"We'll discuss it in person. I'll come to pick you up tomorrow morning," Mervyn said.

Just then, the balcony's glass door

slid open. Elio stepped out, holding a light jacket, which he gently draped over Candice's shoulders. He rested his head against her cheek and murmured, "It's chilly out here. Don't stay out too long."

Startled, Candice turned to look at him.

Mervyn clearly heard Elio's voice over the phone, and his anger intensified. "Candice, did you hear what I said?" Candice snapped out of her daze. "Huh?"

"I said, I'll come to pick you up tomorrow morning. We need to have a serious talk," Mervyn said.

"Oh," Candice answered nonchalantly.

Frustrated, Mervyn ended the call abruptly.

Candice slowly set her phone down and turned to face Elio. She said diffidently, "Mervyn's coming to pick me up tomorrow. He wants to talk."

Elio's heart sank with disappointment and discomfort, yet he managed to keep his smile serene and composed. He spoke gently, "If you want to meet him, go ahead. If not, that's fine, too. I respect your choice."

Candice gave a small, grateful smile. "Thanks for being understanding."

After all, she and Mervyn had been friends for over 20 years. She couldn't simply end their relationship because of her engagement.

Chapter 943

Elio remained silent as he wrapped his arms around Candice's shoulders and pulled her close. He gazed up at the night sky, trying to calm the anxiety and unease within him by feeling the comforting warmth of her presence in his arms.

His apparent generosity was nothing more than a façade, and his understanding was just an act. Deep down, he despised seeing Candice interact with Mervyn.

Even though their relationship was purely platonic, Elio was overwhelmed by jealousy and bitterness so intense it drove him to madness. He simply couldn't stand it.

Yet, Elio chose to keep this side of himself hidden from Candice, not wanting to reveal how petty and jealous he could be. He believed it was best to conceal his flaws until after they were married to avoid complications.

It was a bright, sunny morning when Mervyn arrived. Candice and Elio were walking to the front yard of the villa when they saw him approaching.

The two men exchanged no greetings. Their hostile glances were like a silent duel. Despite the storm of emotions raging within them, both managed to maintain a calm exterior.

"Mervyn, you're here?" Candice greeted him politely.

Upon seeing Candice, Mervyn's expression softened. He took her wrist and led her toward his car. "Come on, get in," he urged.

"Where are you taking me?" Candice asked.

"Don't ask questions. Just follow me."

Candice turned as they walked, wanting to say goodbye to Elio, but Mervyn hurried her along and practically shoved her into the car.

Elio stayed calm from the start and stood silently with an unreadable gaze fixed on Candice, keeping his thoughts hidden.

As the car started pulling away, Mervyn shot a sharp glare at Elio and muttered, "Such a faker. He's clenching his fists so hard they might crack, yet he keeps up the act of being a gentleman."

Candice felt a wave of anxiety wash over her at Mervyn's words. She rolled down the window and glanced back. Sure enough, Elio's calmness was belied by the anger in his tightly clenched fists.

As the distance between them increased, Candice glanced in the rearview mirror. Elio still stood rigidly in place, his presence both unsettling and intimidating.

Candice's unease deepened. Why didn't Elio speak up if he disapproved of her going out alone with Mervyn?

She pulled out her phone, intent on sending a message, but she set it down again after a moment of hesitation. Instead, she turned to Mervyn. "Why did you come tooking for me so early in the morning?"

Mervyn suppressed the urge to scold her. "I want you to see the kind of man you're planning to marry. I'm trying to snap you out of your love-struck haze."

"I'll figure out who he is on my own." Candice felt exasperated. Earnestly, she said, "Mervyn, my family supports my relationship with Elio. You're my best friend. Why do you keep opposing it?"

"Because..." Mervyn halted, his words catching in his throat. He couldn't bring himself to confess his feelings, fearful it might drive Candice away. After a pause, he continued, "Because I don't want you to end up with regrets."

Candice offered a resigned smile. "Who can predict the future? Even if I don't marry Elio and choose someone else, can you guarantee I won't have regrets then?"

"That's just twisted logic," Mervyn snorted in response.

Candice took a deep breath. "Where exactly are you taking me? I need to get to work."

"Take a day off," Mervyn demanded.

"I already took a day off yesterday," Candice replied.

With a smirk, Mervyn asked through clenched teeth, "So, you can takeza day off for Elio for no reason, but you can't do the same for me? Does our 20-year friendship meantess to you than he does?"

Chapter 944

Candice was utterly speechless. She leaned back in her seat, turned her gaze out of the car window, and ceased her questions about their destination.

An hour later, the car turned into the driveway of an upscale neighborhood and halted in front of a luxurious high-rise apartment building.

Mervyn stepped out first and led Candice through the community grounds, eventually ascending to a higher floor using an elevator. Candice's curiosity grew throughout the journey.

Mervyn brought her into a lavishly decorated apartment. Her heart sank as soon as she saw the owner of the house. Mervyn had introduced her to Josie's aunt, Fenna.

Fenna greeted them politely with a warm smile and invited them to sit. Shortly after, she signaled to a maid to bring over some refreshments. Candice mustered a strained smile, struggling to maintain politeness while harboring a desire to throttle Mervyn. Meeting Fenna was something she had never anticipated.

After exchanging some pleasantries, Fenna cut to the chase. "Candice, let me clarify. I'm not bringing this up on Josie's behalf, but rather because Mervyn sought help from her. Unaware of the situation, Josie turned to me for help instead."

Candice offered an awkward smile.

"And I'm sure you understand that given my husband's position, delving into someone's background isn't much of a challenge," Fenna added.

Brimming with anger, Candice questioned Mervyn through clenched teeth, "Did you ask them to dig into Elio?"

"Yes, I asked for Josie's help and Ms. Hudson uncovered everything. It's time you open your eyes and see the truth about him," Mervyn responded boldly.

Candice drew in a deep breath,

struggling to contain her anger. She willed herself to appear nonchalant as she spoke, "Alright, show me everything. Let me see what other questionable dealings Elio had been

tactics concerning my university enrollment."

involved in, besides his c

Fenna rose from her seat and made her way to the study. Within moments, she emerged holding a pile of documents. Seating herself opposite Candice, she went through the papers and passed one over, stating, "Here's the hospital where Éto stored his sperm."

Candice's frustration boiled over and she clenched her fists, scolding, "Whether he stored sperm or not, that's his private affair. Do you have any sense of boundaries?"

Annoyed, Mervyn said, "Just check out the document first."

Candice's irritation deepened. She was utterly exasperated with Mervyn. What was he playing at? Reluctantly, she took the document and examined it closely. To her astonishment, her name was listed as the only authorized user of the sperm.

Fenna passed another document to Candice. "Here's Elio's diary from a few years back."

Candice was incredulous. "You even have his diary?"

Fenna offered a faint smile while brushing off the significance. "Elio's mother read his diary and passed it on to Josie. She shared this particular entry with me."

A growing discomfort settled in Candice's chest. These self-proclaimed elders showed a complete lack of respect for Elio. The invasion of his privacy by reading his diary was simply intolerable.

Utterly ticked off, Candice glanced down at the few lines written in the diary.

"I had that dream again-the one where I slept with Candice. She was crying sorrowfully. What should I do? I'm losing control of my inner demons. I want her to have my children, many, many of them. When will my wish come true?"

Candice didn't find anything particularly alarming in the entry. She checked for the date, but there was no year mentioned. She asked, "When was this diary entry from?"

Annoyed, Mervyn snapped, "The date isn't what matters! What you need to understand is that he doesn't truly love you. He's merely obsessed with your appearance and gics. To him, you're just a tool for having children!"

Chapter 945

Candice couldn't resist her curiosity. "I bet there are more diary entries besides this one. Where are they? I'd like to see them as well." "The rest are irrelevant and none of your concern. Focus on this page alone," Fenna replied with a stern tone.

Candice gave a faint smile as she set down the documents, asking, "Is there anything more?"

Irritated, Mervyn snapped, "Aren't these enough?"

Candice shook her head. "No."

Taken aback, Mervyn and Fenna exchanged a look of surprise.

Candice smiled contentedly. "I'm really curious about when Elio started feeling this way about me. He wants us to have children together-surely that means he likes me a lot, right?"

Enraged, Mervyn jabbed her head. "You're such a hopeless romantic! He has been plotting against you since high school-blocking your college applications, stopping you from studying abroad, and messing with those guys around you. I'm a victim, too!"

"How have you been a victim?" Candice asked.

With his hands on his hips, Mervyn answered through gritted teeth, "He secretly funded the 'free' scholarship I received to study abroad. He wanted to separate us!"

"Separate us?" Candice echoed, puzzled. "But we're not even together. What's there to separate between us?"

"That's exactly why I find him so terrifying," Mervyn explained.

Fenna glanced at Candice, then at Mervyn before saying," And the worst is yet to come." She then pulled out another stack of photos and handed them to Candice.

"He's somewhat disturbed," Fenna remarked sincerely. "Candice, you must consider carefully and not rush into anything."

Candice accepted the photos and began to flip through them, one by one. Tears inexplicably welled up in her eyes, and she struggled to articulate the emotions stirring in her heart.

Those photos of her had been secretly taken since she was a child. Every aspect of her life was captured on camera, including pictures of her sleeping. Not all the photos were artistic or beautiful. Many were inappropriately focused on her legs and chest, particularly when she wore a dress.

Viewed individually, the photos gave off a creepy, invasive vibe. However, when seen collectively, they clearly depicted the obsessive actions of a guy secretly photographing his crush.

Elio was clearly obsessed, as evidenced by these secretly taken photos. But why had Candice never noticed anything before? Mervyn poked the thick stack of photos in her hand and asked, "Aren't you terrified by such a creepy guy?"

Fenna added, "Do you remember the guy who openly confessed his feelings for you at the school gate in your senior year?" Candice nodded in response.

"That guy ended up in the hospital the next day. A week later, his entire family moved to another city," Fenna said.

Mervyn couldn't resist snarking, "Elio's psycho. His mind is like a bottomless pit of darkness."

Candice hung her head with a heavy heart and murmured, "So, he's been crushing on me since I was a kid?"

Exasperated, Mervyn grabbed her arm. "Can we stay on topic here? We're discussing his character and the messed-up tactics he employs! Aren't you afraid of a guy so warped and dark?"

Candice gripped the photos and retorted, "Why should I be afraid? Who drove him to these dark actions? Wasn't it all because of his mother?" "Are you feeling sorry for him?" Mervyn was baffled.

Candice offered a bitter smile. "I do feel sorry for him, but I love him even more."

Fenna was completely stunned at her words.

Chapter 946

Candice was in love with Elio?

Just moments ago, Fenna had attempted to reveal Elio's true character to Candice. She portrayed him as intimidating and creepy, hoping it would convince Candice to leave him. Ironically, her efforts seemed to have the opposite effect.

Fenna looked at Mervyn and thought he was an absolute fool. He had actually told her that Candice didn't have feelings for Elio and was merely being deceived by him.

Mervyn slapped his forehead and gave a bitter smile. He slumped back onto the couch, too defeated to continue the argument.

Candice turned to Fenna. "Ms. Hudson, is Josie aware of what kind of person Elio really is?"

Fenna gave an awkward smile. "Of course, she knows. But she's smart enough not to get involved with someone as creepy as him." "That's reassuring," Candice replied. "A man as creepy as Elio shouldn't be around other women. He should stay with me."

Mervyn couldn't contain himself any longer. "Candice!" he exclaimed.

Candice jumped, her eyes widening in surprise. "Why are you shouting my name like that?"

"Do you realize what you're saying? What happened to all the books you've read, the knowledge you've accumulated, and the education you've pursued over the years?

"And look at yourself now! You appear to be a complete fool, utterly blinded by your infatuation with Elio and losing all sense of right and wrong," Mervyn snapped.

Candice began to cry as Mervyn's words cut deep. Through her tears, she said, "How does loving someone make me a fool? Elio secretly took photos of me, imagined starting a family with me, and even drove away anyone else who was interested in me.

"He sabotaged my education plans and our plans to study abroad together. You see all his actions as terrifying and twisted, but I don't! I see a man who has loved me in secret for years.

"Yet, I was clueless all this time and I left him to suffer alone! I feel sorry and sad for him. What he did touched me deeply."

Fenna let out a snort. Unable to listen any longer, she left the living room.

Meanwhile, Mervyn clenched his fists as he struggled to find the right words.

Candice sniffled, wiped her tears, and said, If I had known he loved me, I would have told him how I felt years ago and we could have been together, instead of just starting now."

Mervyn's eyes turned bloodshot with rage. "He's been manipulating you from the start! What do you even find appealing about him? His deceitfulness?"

"Mervyn!" Candice snarled, her

patience finally worn thin. "If you get

another bad thing about him, our friendship is done." With that she grabbed her bag and left.

Mervyn rushed after her in desperation. He ended up dashing after her onto the main road. He grasped her arm, his demeanor softening as he chose his words carefully.

"Candice, I only want you to see his true character. Can you please take a moment to think about it, rather than acting impulsively?"

"Mervyn, I truly love Elio-more than I can say. Please support us if you value our friendship," Candice replied earnestly. "Candice "

"Enough. Yes, it's true he secretly

took photos of me, fantasized about me, manipulated situations, and even set traps to lure me in. None of these actions are right or honorable,

but they all stem from his love for me.

"I don't resent him for any of it. In fact, it only deepens my love for him. Do you get it?" Candice explained.

Overwhelmed with sorrow, Mervyn placed his hands on his hips and quietly gazed skyward.

Candice continued, "I was the one who proposed to him. I actually asked him to marry me. So, please stop conspiring with Josie to break up Elio and me."

Chapter 947

After her words, Candice swiftly turned and left. She walked to the street, hailed a taxi, and returned to her office.

She felt a heavy weight in her chest throughout the day. Eventually, she couldn't contain her emotions any longer and dialed Mila's number.

Stationed at the frontier, Mila was taken aback by the call from Candice. At first, she thought Candice was simply missing her, but it soon became clear that she was seeking help.

With a troubled tone, Candice asked, "Aunt Chubs, why did your mother do this? She went through Elio's diary and even showed it to Josie. Why is she so intent on forcing Elio to marry someone he dislikes?"

Candice slumped over her desk, silently weeping. Her heart ached for Elio. The more she thought about the situation, the more her frustration grew. Baffled, Mila asked, "Candice, what's wrong? What happened?"

"They're trying to force me and Elio apart. I'm just so devastated!" Candice replied.

"Who?"

"Your mother and Josie's aunt?"

Mila gasped. "My mom and Fenna?"

Candice simply hummed in affirmation.

Mila reassured her. "Candice, please don't cry. With Leo by your side, there's nothing to fear. He loves you more than you realize and won't give up on you easily. No one can tear you apart as long as you stay strong."

"But Aunt Chubs, I'm terrified! I'm worried your mother won't accept our relationship. I can't even bring myself to go with Elio to meet your parents." Mila sighed deeply, her mind racing with thoughts of Michaela's stubbornness, Fenna's deceitful tactics, and Josie's manipulations. A shiver of dread ran through her as she worried for Candice.

After a brief pause, Mila said, "Candice, don't be afraid. My parents do like you. It's just that they view Leo's marriage as a strategic alliance. They believe Josie would be a better match for him due to her influence and capabilities, not because they genuinely prefer her over you."

"So, how can I make them accept me?"

Mila gave a gentle smile. "You don't need to bend over backward to impress them. Just continue to be the person Leo loves, and you'll naturally win them over."

"Is it really that simple?"

"Yes."

"Thank you, Aunt Chubs," Candice said, managing a smile through her tears.

Mila smiled warmly. "Stop crying now. You're a grown-up. Be brave in pursuing your happiness. And remember, if you ever feel helpless, Jasper is there to help you."

"Alright."

After finishing work for the day, Candice returned home in the evening to find that Elio hadn't arrived yet.

The cook had dinner ready and

offered to serve her, but she chose to wait for Elio so they could eat together. She suggested the cook

and the maid take the rest of the day off

As the time ticked by, her hunger grew more insistent. Candice sat on the living room couch, occasionally glancing at her silent phone.

She debated whether to send Elio a message to check on his whereabouts. Torn, she toyed with her phone, unsure whether to reach out or wait a little longer.

The clock showed 9:00 pm when she heard the door finally open. She leaped up from the couch, her eyes wide with anticipation as she turned toward the entrance.

Elio strode in, momentarily taken aback to find Candice waiting. He mustered a smile and walked over to place his phone on the coffee table. "When did you get back?" he asked.

Candice noticed his posture was tense. Though his smile was charming, his eyes betrayed a trace of sadness.

Unable to hold back, she

approached and wrapped her arms

tightly over his waist. She pressed her face against his chest and whispered, "You're clearly upset. Why try to hide it?"

Startled, Elio instinctively pulled her closer, his arms encircling her shoulders. He cradled the back of her head, kissed her fragrant hair, and closed his eyes, taking a deep breath to steady himself.

"Candice, is he really that important?" Elio asked tentatively, his voice tinged with a bitterness that seemed to come from a deep, unresolved issue.

Chapter 948

Candice replied impassively, "Yes, but he's not as important as you are."

"Did he tell you to leave me?" Elio asked.

Candice fell silent.

Elio's face turned sour. He tightened his embrace, closed his eyes, and whispered into her ear, "Candice, ignore what anyone else might say. Don't even think about leaving me. Now that you're in my life, I'll never let you go."

Candice's heart ached with sympathy, sensing the deep, unspoken love Elio harbored for her. Though she harbored feelings for him, too, her love was different-much purer. She cherished him deeply but had restrained herself, never acting on her feelings or crossing any boundaries.

She wrapped her arms around Elio's neck, pulled herself up on her tiptoes, and whispered into his ear, "Let me tell you a secret."

Curiosity piqued, Elio tilted his head down, his ear brushing close to her lips, ready to catch every word.

"I have been in love with a man for ten years," Candice murmured.

Instantly, Elio's body tensed, and his expression hardened. He unclasped Candice's hands from his neck and distanced himself. His voice detached as he said, "I don't want to hear this."

His sudden shift in demeanor took Candice aback. With a flicker of irritation, he loosened his tie and glanced toward the dining table. "Haven't you eaten yet?" he asked.

"No," Candice replied, her voice tinged with sadness. She had hoped to confess her feelings earlier when the mood was lighter, but now Elio seemed distant and upset.

"Don't wait up for me in the future. My eating schedule is all over the place. I don't even have dinner sometimes."

Feeling slighted, Candice murmured, "Oh."

Elio removed his suit jacket and headed toward the dining table. "I'll heat the food, and then we can eat together." He picked up the dishes and carried them into the kitchen.

Candice trailed behind him, her steps hesitant.

In the kitchen, Elio placed the dishes into the microwave. Candice paused at the doorway, her gaze lingering on his broad back.

Leaning against the counter with his hands spread out, Elio hung his head, his posture exuding an unspoken loneliness as he waited for the food to heat.

Summoning her courage, Candice stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him from behind.

Elio stiffened slightly but relaxed as his hands gently rested on her arms encircling his waist. He asked in a soft voice, "What's the matter?" "Elio Hoffis," Candice whispered.

An inexplicable tension gripped Elio at the sound of his full name. He swallowed anxiously, his voice raspy as he responded, "Yes?"

"I've loved you for over ten years, Elio. I've felt this way ever since I was young."

Elio stood frozen, his shock rendering him immobile. The microwave chimed, yet he still struggled to process her words, his heart pounding fiercely and his breathing uneven.

Candice continued, "I'm not

someone who takes relationships lightly. It's because it's you, that I'm open to sleep with you, and to marry you It's because it's you, Eli Hoffis, that I'm ready."

Overwhelmed by his emotions, Elio gently pulled away her hands, turning to envelop her in a tight hug. His eyes brimmed with tears, his voice shaky as he asked, "Candice, d-do you really love me?"

"I love you, Elio," she whispered in reply.

Her words ignited a surge of excitement within him. He could barely contain it. He held her close, his body trembling as his vulnérable heart beneath his usually stoic exterior had finally found solace.

Tears escaped his tightly shut eyes. His throat tightened to the point where words failed him.

Meanwhile, Candice felt nearly suffocated by the intensity of his embrace. "Elio-" she began.

Elio cut her off and asked meekly, "Candice, have you really loved me for over ten years? Do you truly love me?"

 

The Wrong Woman

Chapter 949

Chapter 949

"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.

Candice offered a faint smile. "I'm settling in well."

"That's good to know," Jasper responded earnestly. "My mom's on my back to make sure you and Uncle Elio tie the knot without hiccups."

Candice furrowed her brows in confusion.

Jasper chuckled and continued, "My mom wants me to take you back to visit Grandma Michaela tomorrow to talk about the wedding."

Candice turned with an anxious look on her face.

Elio emerged from the kitchen with a few dishes and set them on the dining table. Catching Jasper's words, he approached and said casually, "Tomorrow isn't the right time."

"Uncle Elio, you can't keep avoiding this. Sooner or later, Candice has to meet your parents," Jasper replied with a displeased tone.

Elio was determined to shield Candice from any discomfort. He said firmly, "There's no need to meet anyone we don't have to."

Candice grasped Elio's intent immediately. Meanwhile, Jasper was completely stumped.

Mila had wanted Candice to show courage and confront her challenges directly. However, Elio seemed intent on avoiding others and keeping Candice close to him alone.

Jasper's tone turned grave. "Grandma Michaela, Fenna, and Josie are all aligned against you two. They’re determined to tear you apart and Candice's outmatched by them. There’s no point continuing if you both handle your relationship this way."

Elio's face was clouded over with concern.

Candice glanced anxiously at Jasper, asking, "It's not that serious, is it, Jasper?"

Frustrated by their indifference, Jasper replied sharply, "Candice, this isn't just my take. It's our family's stance."

Elio’s face fell, and he lapsed into silence. Candice hung her head, torn by inner turmoil.

Jasper continued with sincerity, “Uncle Elio, I get it. You want to shield Candice from hardship and keep your marriage solely around the two of you. But remember, this isn’t just about the two of you.

“It represents the coming together of two families. You need your parents to accept Candice for this marriage to work.”

Candice appreciated Jasper’s well-meaning advice. She knew that without Elio’s parent’s blessings, their marriage would feel incomplete and obstacles would litter their path ahead.

She turned to Elio and said earnestly, “Elio, Jasper’s right. We need your parents’ approval before we proceed with marriage.”

Elio slapped his forehead and replied despondently, “They’ll never agree.”

“Then, we’ll put the wedding on hold,” Candice said.

Elio’s face fell, his gaze fixed on her in disbelief. Unspoken fear flooded his eyes, and his voice shook as he uttered, “Candice…”

After some thought, Candice said, “I want to return home with you and live with your parents until they come around and accept our marriage. Only then will we tie the knot.”

Jasper clapped his hands enthusiastically. “That’s an excellent idea! I agree.”

Chapter 950

Chapter 950

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."

"This isn't open for discussion," Elio stated firmly.

Jasper threw a meaningful glance at Candice.

She caught on quickly and moved to sit beside Elio, gently hugging his arm. "Elio, can you please let me try? Maybe I can make it work, who knows?" she said in a sweet, cajoling voice.

Elio's heart melted slightly, 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 how hard you try. It will only cause you more trouble and pain."

Scrunching up her forehead, Candice pouted with discontent.

"Candice, maybe it's time for your secret weapon?" Jasper murmured from the side.

Candice's 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, she asked, "Elio, don't you love me anymore?"

Elio was immediately thrown into a state of panic. He had never seen Candice look so forlorn and close to tears before.

She resembled a rose covered in morning dew, looking incredibly vulnerable. Her tears glistening on her lashes ignited a deep, unexplainable pain within him.

Feeling as if everything was spiraling out of control, Elio reached out to cradle her face. "Candice, it's not what you think... I do love you. I—"

"No, you don't. I'm leaving you. I'm going to pack my things and go home!" Candice snapped, shoving Elio's hands aside in frustration. She quickly stood up and hurried to the second floor.

Elio scrambled after her, desperately grabbing her hand. But she immediately shook it off. He reached for her again, only for her to slip away once more. After several futile attempts, Elio's panic surged.

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

Jasper covered his mouth to stifle his laughter.

Elio held Candice tightly. Slowly, she raised her hand and flashed an "okay" gesture to Jasper, who couldn't help but be impressed.

Having been pampered all her life, Candice had mastered the art of playing the innocent. A few tears from her were all it took to melt the hearts of everyone in the family.

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

After dinner, Candice returned to her room to pack her belongings, preparing to move into Hoffis Manor. Meanwhile, Elio instructed Robert to prepare a room for her.

That night, Candice found little rest. Elio had swept her into making love three times, and she didn't fall asleep until almost dawn.

...

The following afternoon, Candice arrived at Hoffis Manor in Elio's car. Known as the wealthiest family in Norvania, the Hoffises truly lived up to their reputation. Hoffis Manor was as grand and opulent as a castle.

Tristan and Michaela were already waiting in the living room when Candice and Elio arrived. A few maids carried their luggage inside, while Robert escorted them to where Tristan and Michaela were seated.

Candice felt a twinge of unease. Tristan and Michaela greeted her with warm smiles. Michaela extended her hand and said, "You're here, Candice."

With a bright smile, Candice approached and gently grasped Michaela's hand. In a soft voice, she said, "In the past, I used to call you both 'Grandma' and 'Grandpa' like Jasper. Would it be alright if I start calling you by your first name?"

Michaela and Tristan shared a look, their smiles faltering slightly.

Even Elio was taken aback. He hadn't anticipated Candice's assertiveness. She was bolder than he had imagined.