William's lips pressed into a thin line.

Elise was proving more resilient than he had anticipated.

What hardships had she endured to forge such steely determination?

His fingers hovered over his phone screen, the drafted message waiting. He hesitated before sending.

He was beginning to understand why Elise kept her walls so high.

After facing the brutal realities of her world, trusting anyone would be a monumental task.

The sudden ringing of his phone broke his concentration. He glanced at the screen and answered with a hint of irritation.

"Nathan," he said, his voice a low rumble.

"Did you catch Elise Scott's press conference livestream?!" Nathan Davis's excited voice burst through. "It was epic!"

"I saw it."

"Holy hell! That was a masterclass in taking someone down! I think I'm genuinely impressed."

William's expression darkened as Nathan continued, his tone light and teasing. "So, what's the deal with you two anyway? We all saw you defending her at your grandfather's gala, but then... radio silence. If you're not making a move, maybe I should—"

"I had dinner with your father recently," William interjected smoothly. "He mentioned his plans to send you abroad for further studies. He was asking my opinion on which university would be most... suitable."

"Whoa, okay, my bad, boss," Nathan backtracked instantly. "Just joking around. You know I'd never overstep. Bros before... well, you know."

The mere thought of more academic rigor made Nathan shudder. His university years had been torture enough.

"Anyway, the real reason I called is your birthday," Nathan said, swiftly changing the subject. "You're turning twenty-eight soon. The guys and I want to take you out. Celebrate properly."

William's eyes drifted to the calendar on his desk.

Two days from now.

"Let me handle the arrangements," Nathan pressed. "You're always swamped. Leave the party planning to us professionals in leisure."

"Fine," William agreed.

Nathan was momentarily speechless. Since when did William agree so easily?

Perhaps Elise's triumphant performance had put him in an exceptionally good mood.

"Great! It's settled then. I'll let you get back to conquering the corporate world," Nathan said cheerfully before hanging up.

He immediately sent a flurry of texts to their group chat, declaring himself the official birthday planner and ensuring William couldn't back out.

William ignored the buzzing phone. The other two friends responded with vague acknowledgments.

His attention returned to his conversation with Elise. He deleted the unsent message and typed a new one.

[Clear your schedule for the day after tomorrow. It's my birthday. I expect you to join me for dinner.]

In her office, Elise stared at the message from William.

She had expected him to mention the press conference, given he provided the crucial evidence.

Now that she thought about it, he had casually mentioned his birthday before.

The underlying message was clear: if she wanted to repay his favor, celebrating his birthday with him was the price.

Her lips tightened slightly. She typed a single, succinct reply.

[Fine.]

A slow, satisfied smile spread across William's face as he read her response.

Samuel, standing nearby, observed the change.

He didn't see the screen, but the look on William's face was unmistakable.

The boss was clearly, undeniably, pleased.