Elise Scott settled into her seat gracefully. She met Henry Levine's gaze without hesitation. "Thank you for having me, Mr. Levine."

"I'm certain you understand why I've requested your presence here today." Henry's voice was direct and businesslike. "We're both people who value efficiency, so I'll be straightforward. I want you to end your relationship with my grandson."

"Relationships concern only the two people involved." Elise's response was equally direct. "I don't believe it's appropriate for family to interfere in personal matters."

She maintained her composure perfectly, showing no sign of intimidation despite the pressure Henry was projecting. Her posture remained elegant and confident.

The truth was, she could walk away from William. Their relationship hadn't reached the point where she would choose him over his family. Not after everything she'd been through.

Henry's public announcement of William's engagement to Victoria had essentially sealed their fate. That engagement was now set in stone.

Still, Elise preferred to end things properly with William herself, rather than having others dictate the terms. She had her pride and principles to maintain.

"I must say, I admire your attitude, Ms. Scott." Henry's tone shifted unexpectedly.

Elise blinked, surprised by the sudden change.

"I expected you to be more intimidated," he continued. "But your composure has proven me wrong."

He paused thoughtfully before continuing. "I'm aware of your past circumstances. I've also followed your recent accomplishments. After all, no ordinary woman could capture my grandson's heart."

His eyes studied her intently, but Elise met his gaze steadily. She didn't mistake his words for acceptance.

"However," Henry continued firmly, "not just anyone can become the wife of the Levine heir. There are certain requirements that must be met. Family background being one of them."

Elise raised an eyebrow. "Are you suggesting an alternative within your family?"

"Ethan Parker," Henry stated plainly.

"Marriage isn't something you choose like picking from a menu," Elise responded succinctly.

"It's not your character that makes you unsuitable for William," Henry insisted. "It's your birth. Any relationship without family blessing is doomed to fail. I believe you're intelligent enough to recognize when to cut your losses."

Elise pressed her lips together.

Now she understood where William got his stubborn, domineering nature. The apple certainly didn't fall far from the tree.

"I won't fight you about ending things with William," she said calmly. "My past has taught me well about the pain of not being accepted. I won't make that mistake again."

She leaned forward slightly. "However, you don't get to unilaterally decide how William and I end our relationship. I want to hear from him directly. I believe I deserve that much courtesy."

Henry studied her determined expression. This was exactly how she had ended things with Samuel - cleanly and decisively, leaving no loose ends.

But...

"What if I refuse?" Henry challenged.

Elise frowned slightly. How much clearer did she need to be?

She was already agreeing to break up with William. She simply wanted to do it properly.

Even though this was their first meeting, she hadn't pegged Henry as completely unreasonable.

Yet he stated clearly, "I don't want an amicable breakup. I want you to leave him of your own accord, without any explanation from him."

Elise's expression cooled. "Then we have nothing more to discuss. We've reached an impasse, and I wouldn't want to waste any more of your valuable time."

A sharp glint appeared in Henry's eyes. "Perhaps we should discuss terms instead."

Elise watched him warily as he continued.

"My first offer: name your price. Any amount you desire. I understand you've accumulated considerable wealth as a renowned fashion designer overseas, but one never complains about having too much money."

He paused for effect before continuing. "My second offer: Scott Enterprises. Your mother built that company from nothing, and the Scotts took it as their own. I can return it to you immediately with a single word."

"Third: Mitchell Corp. You poured your blood and sweat into that company, yet Samuel and his family showed no gratitude, instead trying to destroy you at every turn. Your desire for revenge is justified, and I can make them lose everything overnight."

"Choose one."