The ocean stretched endlessly beyond the glass.

Waves crashed rhythmically against the windowpane.

Elise studied the view carefully.

If her instincts were correct, their accommodation was constructed directly over the water.

She and William settled at the dining table.

Exquisite dishes began arriving immediately.

Each plate was more elaborate than the last.

They were served glasses of deep crimson wine.

The spread of luxurious food made Elise's stomach growl.

"Eat," William instructed gently.

Elise didn't hesitate.

She picked up her fork and began eating.

Both were hungry and ate silently for over thirty minutes.

Finally feeling satisfied, Elise looked up.

"How long are we staying here?" she asked.

William countered with his own question. "How long would you prefer, Ms. Scott?"

"Does my opinion actually matter?" Elise muttered.

William chuckled softly. "You're learning, Ms. Scott."

Elise rolled her eyes.

"Probably a week," he finally answered.

Probably?

Elise frowned at his vague response.

"What if you don't want to leave?" he teased.

"I didn't arrange for time off work," she protested. "Crestwood Channel is starting partnership negotiations with Stellar Group after I won Solo Show. Who's handling that while I'm gone?"

"Samuel will manage it," William said confidently. "Don't worry about it."

Elise stared at him in disbelief.

"Your only responsibility this week is to relax," he stated firmly.

Elise realized further discussion was pointless.

After dinner, she moved to the sofa and checked her phone.

Having slept all day, she felt completely awake now.

She noticed multiple missed calls from Elizabeth.

As she prepared to return the call, William spoke without looking up.

"I already spoke with Elizabeth. You can ignore her calls."

His ability to anticipate her actions was unnerving.

Elise dialed Elizabeth anyway.

Elizabeth had just finished filming one scene and was preparing for another when she saw Elise's call.

She answered immediately. "Hey, finally up from your... nap?"

Elise sighed heavily.

"I mean, finally awake," Elizabeth corrected with a laugh.

"The flight was long and the time difference affected me," Elise explained. "That's why I slept so much."

"I understand." Elizabeth giggled knowingly. "We're all adults here. I completely understand."

Elise doubted Elizabeth understood at all.

"When are you coming back?" Elizabeth asked.

"William says a week."

"A week? But that's Levine Holdings' anniversary..." Elizabeth murmured thoughtfully.

"What was that?" Elise asked, missing her quiet words.

"Nothing," Elizabeth said quickly. "Just enjoy yourself. I'll keep an eye on your place while you're gone."

"Okay," Elise replied before hesitating. "Are you really alright being alone, Elizabeth?"

She hadn't called just to chat. Ethan's protection of Amanda had devastated Elizabeth.

"Of course I'm fine," Elizabeth responded breezily. "William wasn't exaggerating when he said I left home at eighteen to pursue acting. Don't worry about me. Just enjoy your vacation. I can handle myself."

Elise wanted to say more but held back.

Some memories were too painful to revisit.

Opening old wounds only made them bleed again.