Chapter 960
Michaela had a team of professional caregivers and rehabilitation therapists looking after her around the clock. Yet, Candice remained concerned about potential complications.
“Let me stay with you tonight, Michaela,” Candice suggested.
In a gentle tone, Michaela reassured her. “It’s fine, Candice. You should head home and get some rest. I’m in good hands here.”
Fenna immediately nudged Josie and gave her a meaningful glance.
Taking the hint, Josie said, “Mrs. Hoffis, I have tomorrow off. How about I stay over tonight instead?”
Michaela glanced at Josie and pondered briefly before replying, “Sure, Josie, stay with me tonight. We have things in common.”
Candice pursed her lips awkwardly and stayed quiet.
Growing frustrated with Michaela’s behavior, which seemed increasingly out of line, Elio took Candice’s hand and said, “The caregivers are here with Mom, so you don’t have to spend the night at the hospital. I don’t want you to wear yourself out.”
Candice managed a faint smile in response.
Josie felt a surge of jealousy. Watching Elio and Candice together, she clenched her jaw unconsciously.
Michaela closed her eyes and murmured weakly, “I’m okay. You can all go now.”
“Call me if something comes up,” Elio said, his voice devoid of emotion. He then took Candice’s hand and led her out of the ward.
Candice glanced back to bid farewell. “Michaela, I’m heading out now. I’ll come see you again soon.”
With her eyes shut, Michaela remained silent.
Fenna and Josie exchanged a knowing glance and smirked with satisfaction. They both understood Michaela’s strong-willed nature, so ensuring her backing was crucial to secure Josie and Elio’s future marriage.
Meanwhile, Jasper drove Candice and Elio home. The pair sat side by side in the back seat, holding hands, both disheartened.
After Jasper dropped them off, he dialed Mila, who was stationed far away on the frontier, to update her on the family’s current situation.
…
In the quiet of the night, the villa was
brightly lit. Candice sat on the living room couch, deeply absorbed in a thick medical book as she searched for rehabilitation techniques for lumbar issues. Her eyelids grew heavy as time passed, and she yawned more often.
Having just showered and dressed in pajamas, Elio descended the stairs. He approached Candice and took the book from her grasp.
Startled, Candice looked up at him,
who leaned closer and effortlessly lifted her into his arms. She stiffened briefly before instinctively clinging to his neck, her eyes widening in surprise as she gazed at his handsome face.
“It’s late. Time for bed,” Elio said gently.
“You could’ve gone ahead,” Candice murmured.
“I can’t sleep without you in my arms,” Elio replied.
Candice blushed, warmth spreading across her cheeks in response to his words. She asked, “How did you ever manage to sleep when you were single?”
“Back then, I didn’t have anyone, so there was no one to miss. Now that I have you, even a moment apart makes my heart ache.”
“I didn’t expect you to be so smooth.”
“I wouldn’t call it smooth talking. I’m just speaking my mind.”
Candice smiled sweetly in response.
Arriving at the bedroom, Elio carefully settled her onto the bed and tucked the covers around her. Then, he joined her and pulled her close in an embrace.
Candice nestled into his broad chest and whispered, “Your mom is injured. Aren’t you worried?”
“Worrying won’t help. She doesn’t want our concern or care, so it’s not worth your time and energy. She won’t be grateful,” Elio replied.
Candice sighed, feeling emotionally drained.
Shortly after, Elio gently took her hand and intertwined their fingers together. His voice was husky as he whispered, “Candice, let’s get married.” Her heart fluttered at his words, but she feigned sleep, disregarding his proposal again as if she hadn’t heard them.
She wasn’t opposed to marrying
him. Instead, she awaited Michaela’s and Tristan’s approval. She hoped for a marriage filled with happiness and harmony, and free from typical challenges with mothers-in-law.