Elizabeth couldn't stop venting during the entire ride home. Elise listened patiently to every word.

It wasn't that she wasn't furious herself. But right now, the most important thing was finding a way to prove her innocence.

Sophia had been right—this was a ruthless world where only the strong survived. Her own resistance seemed pitifully weak.

When they arrived at Elise's apartment, Elizabeth told her firmly, "Go take a shower. I'll order food. You need to regain your strength."

"Alright," Elise replied before retreating to her bedroom.

She stared at her reflection in the mirror. Even though she'd only been detained for twenty-four hours, she looked noticeably haggard. She took a deep breath, reminding herself she couldn't afford to break.

She couldn't give up. Not until this was truly over.

After her shower, she emerged to find the dining table completely covered with delicious-looking dishes.

Elizabeth waved her over enthusiastically, sliding plate after plate toward Elise.

"You've lost weight. Eat more."

Looking at the mountain of food, Elise joked weakly, "Are you worried I won't get to eat properly if I get arrested again?"

It was meant to be lighthearted, but Elizabeth's eyes immediately welled up with tears. She clearly believed Elise might actually end up in prison.

"Don't say things like that. William will definitely save you no matter what—"

"Stop." Elise cut her off sharply.

She offered no further explanation.

Elizabeth understood why Elise wouldn't want to hear William's name. Honestly, she felt the same anger—why should Elise suffer because of William's history with Victoria? If she were in Elise's position, she'd resent him too.

For once, she didn't try to defend her beloved cousin.

After they finished eating, Elise called Samantha.

"I'm out of detention now. If you have time, could we discuss my case?"

"Of course. Where are you? I'll come to you."

"I'm at home. I'll text you my address."

"Perfect. I'll be right there."

Samantha arrived at Elise's apartment within thirty minutes. Elizabeth was initially surprised to see her, but quickly realized why she was there.

"You're here to discuss Elise's case?"

"Yes," Samantha confirmed.

"I just received updates about your situation. They have substantial evidence—and more importantly, someone influential is pushing this case forward. Your trial is scheduled in two weeks."

Elizabeth looked increasingly distressed.

"So soon? Will we have enough time to gather evidence?"

"Unfortunately, when it rains, it pours."

"What can we do? Is there any way to get more time?"

"Only if we have valid reasons for delay," Samantha admitted.

"Damn it," Elizabeth muttered under her breath.

Elise remained remarkably calm.

"Can we file an appeal?"

"Theoretically, yes," Samantha said.

"But do you think they'll allow it? The judge would likely deny it immediately, which means these two weeks are all we have. Regarding the key points we identified yesterday, I've investigated everything. First, that fraudulent bank account. I requested security footage from the bank for the day it was opened, but coincidentally, the cameras were malfunctioning that day. We have nothing. That means we have no evidence proving you didn't personally open that account."