My Mirror Image by Maybe Not (Candice And Alex’s)

Chapter 0307

The dispute between Alex and Sonia regarding Candice soon became a topic of widespread discussion.

When Sonia returned to the Secretary's Office with a look of discontent, it had attracted attention. The majority of people enjoyed the drama as it played out, taking pleasure in it and giving Sonia looks that made her feel angry and embarrassed.

Alex's vehement defense of Candice seemed to confirm Xavier's suspicions, leaving Sonia convinced that there was something more between them. Her thoughts ran wild with speculations, and her distress and irritation grew by the minute.

She was on the edge of tears when her phone chimed.

The message was from Xavier. "Sonia, would you like to join me for lunch? A friend has opened a new restaurant that's said to be excellent. I'd like us to go check it out."

-

With Kayla around, Candice didn't have to pay close attention to Aether Corporation to keep herself informed about what was happening with Alex and Sonia.

The pair were clearly avoiding each other. Alex had taken a business trip to Solaris, while Sonia's mood worsened by the day, reflected in her slackness, arriving late and departing early at work.

Kayla remarked, "She acts as if she's the boss. Though, I did hear from someone that Sonia was spotted at the movies with a man. Quite the story there."

After scanning through Kayla's messages and replying swiftly, Candice shifted her focus back to her spreadsheets.

Old Mr. Elysian had called earlier, urging her to not be late for the party tonight.

-

The party took place at Morningdale Resort, which was nestled within a garden that exemplified classical Clesia architecture, with stunning views at every turn. It was the time of year when the coolness of approaching autumn set in.

Candice had imagined the birthday bash to be an extravagant affair, but he had chosen a more modest party, inviting only a few close family friends. She arrived alongside Jackson since the Shyans and Elysians had always gotten along.

Old Mr. Elysian and Bruno were waiting at the entryway.

When Shawn noticed Candice and Jackson came together, he frowned. "Candy, why are you just arriving? Others have practically finished all the good stuff I saved for you."

As he made his way forward, Shawn deftly squeezed past Jackson with a smooth motion.

He then directed his attention to Candice, speaking softly and sincerely. "I've been anxiously waiting for your arrival. I was worried you might not show up."

Candice smiled as she noted old Mr. Elysian’s childish behavior. She gave Jackson a knowing glance, and he could only shake his head in amusement.

Jackson then offered his gift. "Mr. Elysian, with my parents unexpectedly called to a meeting, I'm here in their stead. Happy birthday, and may your day be filled with joy, laughter, and everything that brings happiness."

Shawn's response was one of genuine pleasure. "It's been a while since we've met. You've really come into your own."

Seizing the moment, Candice also presented her gift. "May you enjoy good health and happiness."

Old Mr. Elysian was visibly in high spirits. He brushed off the need for gifts. "Just having you here is more than enough. Why go to the trouble to give me a gift?" He was in a terrific mood when he dragged Candice inside. "I told Lex that we were going to take a family photo tonight. It'll truly make my day."

Candice was taken aback by the old man’s suggestion but hesitated to voice her concerns immediately, hoping to find a suitable excuse later. She felt her inclusion in a family photo with the Elysians was inappropriate.

Shawn guided her into a hall teeming with guests. Helen, Daniel, and Jessica were all present.

Helen sneered as she saw the old man and Candice show up together. "Shawn is clueless," she muttered.

Jessica smacked her lightly and reminded her, "It's Mr. Elysian’s birthday. Show some respect."

Helen responded with an eye roll but chose to remain silent.

Candice saw Helen's reaction but remained unfazed, as Helen's disapproval of her was nothing new.

She continued to accompany old Mr. Elysian, greeting the guests. Candice was acquainted with many of them, who looked at her with curiosity.

Many people thought Candice would be the Elysians' future daughter-in-law because of how the old man constantly included Candice on family occasions.

Candice eventually spoke up. "Grandpa, I noticed Mr. Daniel is looking for you. He could have something to say."

Shawn's expression turned into a frown, annoyed at the interruption.

Candice then offered a solution, "Why don't I ask Bruno to fetch Mr. Daniel? I can return once you two have concluded your discussion."

The look in Shawn's eyes dimmed. He understood that Candice had tactfully declined to follow him around.

After a brief pause, he gently proposed, "Okay, could you please call Lex? The dinner is nearly starting, and he hasn't arrived."

It was clear Shawn had made this request deliberately.

Candice was on the verge of protesting when the old man gave her a wave of his hand, turned, and left with Bruno.

With no alternatives, she was compelled to reach out to Alex.

The call was promptly answered. His low and chilly voice rang forth. "What's up?"

Candice was standing in the hallway and gazing out into the illuminated pond. "Your grandfather wanted to know when you'd be arriving," she said coldly.

Alex took a moment before replying."Sounds like you've taken on the role of hostess, haven't you?" he said mockingly.

Looking down, Candice responded, "I'm merely conveying a message from Shawn."

"You seem to be on familiar terms with him," Alex said with a chuckle.

Candice maintained a neutral tone. "I've delivered the message. I'm going to hang up now."

After she hung up, she remained outside the hall.

Hearing the laughter and chatter inside, she knew old Mr. Elysian was still interacting with guests, and she'd be dragged into the chaos if she entered. Today, Candice intended nothing more than to partake in celebrating Shawn's birthday.

She stayed put, her attention fixed on the pond's withered water lilies.

The sound of footsteps broke the silence, prompting Candice to glance upwards and notice Alex advancing toward her, his face devoid of emotion. RêAd lat𝙚St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

He appeared to walk through a swath of light that the corridor's lighting had illuminated, his perfectly tailored suit emphasizing his tall and alluring form. A brooch shaped like an iris adorned his lapel, lending him an air of refinement.

Coincidentally, the brooch detail harmoniously matched Candice's attire. After learning the party was at Morningdale Resort, Candice had chosen a cream gown that reinterpreted traditional styles with elegance for the occasion. The gown was embroidered with tiny flowers in complementary colors, giving it the appearance of sophistication and grace.

At first glance, the floral embroidery resembled irises. Yana had advised this, pointing out that iris elements were trending this year.

Alex's attention briefly lingered on her dress, then he arched an eyebrow. The expression in his dark eyes was unfathomable when he said, "Was this intentional?"

"You're reading too much into it," Candice said quietly.

Alex continued to observe her, soon breaking into a laugh that seemed to convey a range of undertones. "The lengths you go to please Grandfather are truly remarkable," he observed. He raised his head up, teasingly glancing at her and taunted, "You even remembered Grandfather

adores irises. I bet he was moved. Who knows? Perhaps he'll spontaneously give you another set of emeralds that are worth millions."