"Why aren''t you going? The whole family will be there," Jasper said as he started the car and drove off.


    Candice remained silent.


    Jasper continued, coaxing softly, "Candice, how about we get your makeup done and find a lovely evening gown? Juste along to the banquet with me, alright?"


    Candice, with her naturally gentle disposition, found it difficult to resist her brother''s request. She nodded in acquiescence.


    The opulent Hoffis Manor gleamed with grandeur. Crystal chandeliers cast a radiant glow over the expansive ballroom, exuding an aura of luxury and sophistication. Soft, melodic music filled the air, mingling with the chatter andughter of the elite guests.


    Being the richest family in Norvania, the Hoffis family''s banquet was attended predominantly by aristocrats and dignitaries.


    The entire Morrison family was present.


    Candice''s uncles were huddled together,ining to Tristan.


    "What spell did you cast on Candice that she insisted on working for yourpany?" Duke grumbled.


    Tristanughed innocently, "I didn''t even know Candice was working for us."


    Taylor chimed in, "I offered her the funds to start her own business, but she refused. I even suggested she take the role of vice president at mypany, but she said she couldn''t do it."


    Tobias added, "I nned to make a few blockbuster movies to kick-start her acting career, but she wasn''t interested. She insisted on joining ND Group as a designer and working for your family."


    "In my opinion, Candice shouldn''t be working at all. We can easily support her without her having to work," Taylor concluded.


    Tristan couldn''t help butugh as he looked toward the entrance. "Candice is here."


    All eyes turned to the entrance.


    Candice walked in with Jasper, dressed in an elegant, off-white evening gown that was both sophisticated and sweet.


    Taylor waved them over, signaling Jasper to bring Candice to their group.


    "Candice, Uncle Taylor wants us to join them," Jasper said to Candice.


    Candice smiled sweetly at her uncles.


    Suddenly, a waiter in uniform


    carrying a tray of wine identally bumped into Candice, spilling red wine all over her gown. Themotion drew everyone''s attention. en.sProperty ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Caught off guard, Candice couldn''t react in time, her gown stained with wine. She stepped back and collided with Jasper.


    Jasper quickly steadied her, his face darkening with anger. He stormed over and grabbed the waiter by the cor.


    "I-I''m sorry, Ms. Candice Morrison


    Jasper Morrison. I didn''t et


    stammered, trembling in fear. en.s


    43 It was an ident!" the


    Jasper gritted his teeth. "I think you did it on purpose."


    Candice, ignoring the wine so t


    her dress, quickly intervened. "Jasper, don''t make it difficult


    for


    him. ''ll just change my clothes. It''s


    no big deal, really."


    to en.s


    Immediately, a swarm of men rushed over from all directions, surrounding Candice with anxious concern.


    The noise was overwhelming, echoing in her ears.


    Candice looked around and sighed, "Everyone, I''m fine. It''s just a stained dress. There''s nothing to worry about." Jasper quickly interjected, "Luckily, I brought three evening gowns. Two are still in the car. I''ll go get them now." Sienna and Daniel approached.


    "Candice, are you alright?" Sienna asked.


    Candice managed a smile. "Mom, Dad, I''m fine."


    "Follow Jasper to Aunt Chubs'' room to change," Daniel instructed.


    "Okay." Candice remained calm and nodded apologetically at the server. "I''m sorry for bumping into you earlier."