Margaret’s hand trembled as she heard Samuel’s words, and her wine glass tipped over. The dark red liquid seeped into the white tablecloth, spreading like an ominous stain.

"Samuel, you can't make such accusations without proof," Margaret warned, her voice tight. "Slandering Michael is a dangerous game."

Samuel sneered, unaffected. "I wouldn't say it if I weren't sure. Do you really think a man with his history can bring you peace? He’s a demon in a suit, Margaret. I’m afraid that if you stay by his side, you’ll eventually become a victim of his coldness and unpredictability."

Despite the shock, Margaret steadied herself and righted her glass. She looked at her brother with a mix of pity and resolve. "Samuel, your concern is misplaced. Michael has never been anything but professional with me. I care for him, and that’s my choice."

Samuel sighed, a heavy sense of disappointment washing over him. "Fine. I’ve said my piece. Let’s go; the bill is on me."

At the Thomas Villa

Michael and Elizabeth were having a quiet dinner when Michael’s phone buzzed. It was Matthew, sounding uncharacteristically excited.

"Michael! Have you heard? Samuel Taylor is officially on the offensive," Matthew chuckled over the line. "He’s been sending flowers to The Jones Group every day. Theater tickets, art exhibitions, movie premieres—he’s pulling out all the stops to win Elizabeth over."

Michael’s fork paused mid-air. He glanced across the table at Elizabeth, who was methodically eating her dinner, seemingly oblivious to the conversation.

"Are you done?" Michael asked coldly into the phone.

"Not even close! But here’s the kicker: Elizabeth hasn't budged. She’s been giving the flowers to the receptionist and handing the tickets out to the staff. It seems your wife is more loyal than Samuel anticipated."

Michael sneered. "It’s not loyalty; she’s been recovering at home for a week. She hasn't even seen the flowers."

Elizabeth noticed Michael looking at her and felt the tension rising. She put down her fork and nodded to the housekeeper. "Susan, I’m finished. I’m heading back to my room."

As she left, Michael’s gaze followed her. His irritation was no longer just about Samuel’s persistence; it was about the lack of respect Samuel showed by pursuing a married woman.

"Michael," Matthew continued, "you can't watch her forever. Once she’s back at work, Samuel will use his investment as an excuse to be near her. If you actually like her, you need to show it. Take her out. Buy her something."

"I don't know what she likes," Michael admitted, frowning.

"Then ask her! Just get her out of the house."

Michael hung up and sat in silence for a moment before heading to Elizabeth’s room. He knocked firmly. "Elizabeth, can you come out for a second?"

Elizabeth opened the door, dressed in her nightgown. "What is it?"

Michael hesitated, clearing his throat. "The company's annual gala is coming up. I need to select gifts for the female employees, and I have no idea what to choose. Since you’re... free, come to the mall with me to help pick them out."

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow. "Why not ask Margaret? She’d love to go with you."

Michael suppressed his annoyance, remembering Matthew’s advice. "I’ve never shopped with Margaret. Besides, if she helps pick the gifts, she’ll probably expect me to give them only to her. You’re more... objective."

Elizabeth thought about the boredom of the last few days and shrugged. "Fine. Wait in the living room. I’ll change."

She chose a recently purchased black autumn dress that she hadn't had the chance to wear yet. After applying a touch of light makeup and letting her hair fall in natural waves over her shoulders, she stepped out into the living room.

Michael was momentarily stunned. He had seen Elizabeth in professional attire and casual loungewear, but he had rarely seen her like this. The black dress highlighted her fair skin and the elegant line of her neck. She looked radiant, her delicate features enhanced by the subtle makeup.

He stared at her, dazed by the transformation. He had always known she was beautiful, but seeing her now—confident and striking—sent a strange, fluttery sensation through his chest that he couldn't quite explain.

Elizabeth noticed his blank stare and tilted her head. "Michael? Are we going or not?"

Michael snapped back to reality, coughing to hide his embarrassment. "Yes. Let's go."