The Wrong Woman

Candice was captivated by Elio's smile, a sight she realized she had never witnessed before. His smile was faint yet seemed to
cast a magical spell.
Elio was typically reserved and aloof. It made Candice hope he would smile more often. As she pulled from her thoughts, she
met his piercing gaze. She quickly lowered her head and crouched down to pick up some seedlings.
"Let's begin. Where do you think we should plant these?" Candice asked.
Elio approached her and said, "I'll follow your lead."
His simple words warmed Candice, sending a flutter straight to her heart. Even so, she tried to keep her composure and focused
on planning the garden's layout.
Elio listened carefully as she explained her ideas.
Mila stood on the second-floor balcony, secretly watching the garden with a growing smile.
Nathan quietly approached and gently wrapped his arms around her from behind. He whispered in her ear, "What are you
looking at?"
Leaning back against Nathan's chest, Mila sighed softly. "Elio has feelings for Candice. What should we do about it?"
"Candice is both beautiful and kind. It's only natural for Elio to fall for her," Nathan replied casually.
"Are you against it?" Mila asked.
"I'll follow Candice's decision. I won't interfere if she returns his feelings. Otherwise, I won't allow Elio to get close to her."
Mila turned to look at him.
With a tone of seriousness, Nathan added, "This isn't my opinion alone. It's the opinion of our entire family. We respect Candice's
feelings."
Mila sighed in relief. "That makes things simpler. Now, it all depends on Candice's feelings."
"Stop worrying about the young ones now. Come and spend some time with me," Nathan said, taking her hand and leading her
back into the room.

Mila smiled helplessly. Nathan's affectionate nature endured despite the years.
Whenever he had time off, he preferred to stay home with her, enjoying activities like cooking, watching movies, playing chess,
resting, sharing affectionate moments, and exercising.
He always made sure to include Mila in everything he did. Yet Mila was someone who preferred stillness. She loved to spend her
free time quietly immersed in a book.
Candice meticulously planted each seedling in the garden, and together with Elio, they watered the new plants. The perfect
weather lifted her spirits.
Elio's frequent smiles throughout the day showcased his lighter side.
"Take a rest inside, Candice. I'll tidy up the tools," he suggested cheerfully, apparently in a good mood.
Yet, Candice decided to help him in putting the tools away. Suddenly, a bell chimed. They both looked toward the large iron gate.
The butler quickly opened it, and Josie entered, carrying a basket of strawberries. Her smile was bright, and her expression was
warm as she approached.
"Leo, Candice, you're both here?" Josie greeted them cheerfully.
Elio remained silent. Candice managed a smile and took a small step away from Elio. "Yes, I'm helping Aunt Chubs with her
garden."
Josie lifted the basket she was carrying. "We had a bountiful strawberry harvest back home. My dad sent me to deliver some to
Mr. and Mrs. Morrison. Why don't both of you come inside and try some with us?"
"Sure, thank you, Josie," Candice replied politely, placing the gardening tools down and following Josie toward the main house.
Elio stayed back to tidy up the tools.
As the two women walked together, Josie asked, "Candice, have you kept in touch with that guy you went to the movies with last
time?" Candice gave a small smile. "He's my friend's brother, and we haven't really stayed in contact."