Chapter 953
Candice caught Elio’s smile and struggled to hold back her own.
Michaela, Tristan, and Josia paused their discussion on economics. They were surprised by the lighthearted moment between Candice and Elio over dinner.
However, the most astonishing change for them was Elio. Known for his composed, dignified, and reserved demeanor, he seemed completely different tonight. The trio was dumbfounded to find Elio laughing more in one evening than they had seen him laugh in the past year.
Elio chuckled and softly asked, “Is there more?”
Candice took a sip of her soup, paused, and began a tale, “A tortoise wanted to race a hare. But the hare, with a condescending tone, said, ‘Your kind won once by fluke. Quit dreaming.’
“Undeterred, the tortoise tried every method to persuade the hare, who remained unmoved. Finally, the tortoise pulled out a wad of cash and said, ‘Consider this your fee for turning up!’
“A broad grin immediately spread across the hare’s face as it responded, ‘Mr. Tortoise, I’ll run just the way you want me to.'”
The story wasn’t all that funny, but Candice’s sincere effort to brighten Elio’s mood made him feel better. He sensed that Candice genuinely cared about him and understood his feelings. Such care and attention were the most heartwarming anecdote.
Despite the plainness of the story, it still filled him with immense happiness. The two of them chatted and ate with delight, creating a stark contrast with the other three.
…
After dinner, Candice headed to her room to freshen up, while Elio went to his study to work. Unable to contain herself any longer, Josie knocked on the study door.
“Come in,” Elio responded nonchalantly.
Pushing the door open, Josie entered.
Elio briefly glanced up at her before returning his focus to his work.
Approaching him with a smile, Josie asked, “Candice seems like someone really interesting. You seem pretty happy with her, don’t you?”
Without looking up, Elio hummed in response.
Josie sat across from his desk, and her face fell. She spoke earnestly, “When the novelty of such feelings wears off, what will keep your relationship going?”
Elio abruptly closed his documents and glared at Josie, his eyes steely. In a sharp tone, he replied, “I’m not interested in Candice solely because she’s intriguing. I truly care for her, and that’s what makes her interesting to me. Can you see the difference?”
Josie gritted her teeth and clenched her fists, her face hardening even further.
Elio’s expression remained serious as he emphasized each word. “I’m fond of her. Even if she were a lifeless doll, I would still find her interesting and love her the same.
“It’s similar to how I don’t have feelings for you. Even though you’re exceptionally talented, skilled, attractive, and beautiful, you don’t stir any feelings in my heart.”
Josie sneered. She fought hard to suppress her anger, forcing a smile instead. She sighed and said, “We’ve been friends for so long and know each other so well, yet it feels like I’m truly seeing you for the first time now. Candice does have a unique charm.”
Elio lowered his head and responded impassively. “I’m busy. If there’s nothing else, please leave.”
Feeling discontent, Josie stood up reluctantly and quietly left the study. As she entered the living room, she found Candice dressed in adorable cartoon pajamas, applying a facial mask with her hair styled in a bun.
Candice enthusiastically pulled Michaela into a girl group dance, while Tristan was capturing the fun on her phone at Candice’s request.
Michaela laughed heartily as she danced, her moves delightfully awkward. Tristan couldn’t contain his laughter at her antics.
“No dancing for me anymore. I’m too old, and it just doesn’t suit me,” Michaela remarked.
Candice took Michaela’s hand and reassured her cheerfully. “Michaela, you take such good care of yourself. You don’t look your age at all. Your dancing is graceful and endearing.”
“Oh, you flatter me,” Michaela giggled bashfully.
Turning to Tristan, Candice asked, “Tristan, do you think Michaela dances well?”
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