The Wrong Woman

Candice walked through the spacious hall, surveying her surroundings. The assistant's desk was unoccupied, and there was no
sign of Sean. The CEO's office door was slightly open. Driven by curiosity, Candice moved closer and was about to knock.
Just then, she heard a noise from inside-something like a stack of papers tumbling to the floor. She edged closer and peered
through the gap in the door.
Though she couldn't see anyone, she could hear Elio's cold, angry voice piercing the air. "Take your people and leave."
Then, a reply came from Tim McAree, his voice aged and resonant with authority, "Elio, curb your arrogance. When your
grandfather and I were laying the foundations of this company, your father hadn't even been born.
"Your grandfather would have shown me the utmost respect if he were still alive, and your father would have done the same.
Who do you think you are to dismiss my people?"
Elio's response was chillingly detached. "I'm firing you and your entire family. Now, all of you, get out."
"What right do you have? I worked alongside your grandfather to build this company and helped your father to expand it. I may
not have achieved much, but I've put in my fair share of hard work. How dare you fire me!" Tim challenged.
Elio was unmoved as he said, "The shares you own, the salary you draw, and the dividends you receive each year-all of these
are the rewards for your past efforts. The company has compensated you financially.
"We owe you nothing further. You're no longer effective and can't add value to our operations. It's time for you to retire and make
room for others."
"Well, Elio, you really are something." Tim sneered.
"None of the people you brought in with your connections will be staying," Elio added sharply.
Just then, another loud crash echoed. Startled, Candice stepped back. Tim, appearing in his 60s, stormed out of the office,
followed by several young men in sharp suits.
As they brushed past Candice at the door, Tim stopped to give her a disdainful look and taunted, "So, it's you? You're just a
designer, yet you dare to show up at the CEO's office? You're quite attractive. Did you sleep your way to take over from the
previous design director?"
Candice instantly understood from Tim's bitter remarks that the former design director had been one of his allies.

After his harsh words, Tim left the office with his people.
Hearing the commotion, Elio hurried out, only to find Candice standing dazed at the door. His face showed a mixture of
anxiousness and excitement. He hadn't expected Candice to actually show up. Candice swallowed nervously and managed a
careful nod. "Mr. Hoffis."
Elio opened the office door further and invited her in warmly, "Don't just stand there at the door. Come in."
Candice's nerves were still on edge. She had only heard Elio's voice earlier, but its cold ruthlessness had been chilling. Now, his
warm demeanor was a stark contrast.
"I-I didn't see Mr. Lowe, so I came straight here. I didn't mean to eavesdrop," Candice said timidly.
"It's okay." Elio reassured her with a gentle smile. He stepped forward took her wrist softly, and guided her into the office. His
voice was exceptionally gentle as he asked, "Have you had lunch?"
"Not yet," Candice replied, still shaken by her earlier fear.
"Wait here for a moment, and I'll take you out to eat." Elio guided her to the couch and slid some snacks and fruits on the table
toward her. Have a little something to stave off hunger. I'll be ready soon."
Elio then quickly stood up and walked over to his desk. He stacked the half-reviewed documents neatly and powered down his
computer. Then, he slipped on his suit jacket before grabbing his car keys and phone.
Candice sat anxiously, keeping a close eye on him. His quiet, stern demeanor made him incredibly intimidating, which explained
why many in the company were fearful of him. After getting ready, Elio approached her and said, "Let's go."

Feeling uneasy, Candice stood up abruptly. Her eyes brimmed with reverence as she gazed at him, mirroring the cautious awe a
subordinate might reserve for a stern superior.