Candace wanted a shot at Anthony but Elizabeth was hanging the poor guy out to dry. So Candace helped things move along. Anthony was suffering because Elizabeth wasn’t being open. If Candace didn’t take the initiative, Elizabeth would have waited until right before or even during the dance. This way it works out for all three. Candace gets an opportunity at a good guy. Anthony doesn’t get played and Elizabeth learns about honesty.
Easy answer. The wife is not even in the running. She just cannot do ugly.