Elise sensed what William was about to say.

Even though her partnership with Patrick Montgomery hadn't been officially announced, everyone in the inner circles knew. The news had spread through backchannels, stirring controversy among business elites.

Why would the prestigious Montgomery family choose to partner with Elise's small enterprise?

They should be aligning with a powerhouse like Levine Holdings instead.

But the decision was made. Everyone was now watching to see how it would unfold.

"Come in," Elise said, opening the door.

William followed her inside. He settled on the couch and got straight to the point. "Why did you choose to partner with Patrick Montgomery?"

"It was a perfect alignment of opportunity and mutual benefit," Elise responded, her tone both formal and truthful.

William let out a derisive sound. "Do you understand the current dynamics within the Montgomery family?"

Elise shrugged. "All I know is this partnership benefits me."

William struggled to contain his frustration. "Elise, can't you see what he's really after?"

"It's a straightforward exchange of value. That's how business partnerships work."

"Patrick told you that Charles Montgomery wants to usurp his family's political influence," William stated clearly. "But he didn't mention his grandfather is terminally ill."

Elise blinked, remaining silent.

Seeing her quiet response, he pressed on. "Charles Montgomery is boldly challenging family rules because the timing favors him. Do you really think getting involved now is wise?"

"Patrick can protect me from Victoria Montgomery," Elise said coolly.

"And if he falls from power?"

"I haven't considered that possibility."

"You were never this impulsive before, Elise."

"So you expect me to place all my trust in you instead?" Elise's voice rose sharply.

William's knuckles tightened. "Am I really that unreliable?"

"You just said the timing favors Charles Montgomery's rise. If Patrick Montgomery—an actual Montgomery—can't defeat him, why would I believe you can?"

William stared intently as Elise spoke, her eyes growing red and moist.

"I never wanted to be part of this conflict! You dragged me into it! I have no means to fight back, so I had to find a way to protect myself! To be blunt, Victoria Montgomery wants me dead. I'm constantly watching my back, worrying about her next move as long as her family remains powerful. Patrick Montgomery is my only hope. With him, I at least have a fighting chance. Without him, it's certain death! What would you choose if you were in my position, William Levine?"

William maintained his composure. "But you need to understand... it's not just Victoria anymore. By partnering with Patrick, you've made enemies of everyone on her side of the family!"

"Let them come," Elise said flatly. "Facing one wolf or an entire pack makes no difference to me now."

William swallowed hard, visibly restraining his emotions.

Elise fell silent, and quiet settled between them.

"It's late," she finally said. "You should go—"

"Could I have some pasta?" William asked.

Elise blinked in surprise. The tension between them had been so thick she assumed he wouldn't want to stay.

"I rushed back immediately," William continued. "The airplane food was terrible, and I haven't eaten since."

Elise pressed her lips together but ultimately relented. "Wait here."

"Thank you," he replied.

Elise rose and went to the kitchen to prepare the meal.

She had been practicing cooking over the past few days, though she had to admit she lacked natural talent. The results were consistently disappointing.

After considerable effort, she finally drained the pasta. She was about to call William when she found him asleep on the couch.

The weariness on his face was unmistakable. She knew exactly how demanding his schedule had been, and how much of it was for her sake.

She sighed softly and retrieved a blanket from her room to drape over him.

He stirred slightly, as if resisting the touch, but remained asleep.

Turning away, she headed to her study. She would work there while waiting for him to wake.