Elise suddenly inquired, "How is Patrick doing?"

There were countless mysteries swirling in her mind, but she refused to torment herself with endless speculation.

The one certainty she held onto was that she and Patrick were currently allies.

"He's alive," William stated simply, offering no further details.

"May I borrow your phone to call him?" she asked politely.

William hesitated, his lingering hostility toward Patrick evident.

That only deepened her confusion: what exactly was the nature of their relationship and where did she stand in all this?

Elise didn't press the matter, calmly stating instead, "Very well. I'll just rest here then."

"You were aware of his... preferences?" William suddenly questioned.

"Yes," Elise admitted without hesitation.

In truth, Patrick had provided her with compromising photographs of himself with other men during their first meeting at her office.

That act of vulnerability had earned her trust more than anything else could have.

The potential scandal those photos could unleash would be devastating for any public figure. If she chose to expose Patrick, his career would be utterly destroyed.

His complete transparency had given her an unparalleled sense of security.

"Don't take too long," William unexpectedly told her.

Elise looked up in surprise as he extended his phone toward her. He had seemed so opposed to the idea moments ago, yet now appeared remarkably accommodating.

The man's thought processes remained utterly baffling, though she typically chose not to dwell on them.

As a gesture of respect, William left the room after handing her the device.

Having memorized Patrick's number, Elise quickly dialed.

"Elise?"

His tone was casual, and he somehow recognized her voice despite the unfamiliar number.

"Yes, it's me," she confirmed.

"I knew you'd call once you woke up," Patrick said with a light chuckle. "How are you holding up? Is William treating you well?"

"I'm fine. All limbs accounted for."

"Same here," he replied. "Though I'll be bedridden for the next few weeks."

"Honestly, me too."

After exchanging updates about their physical conditions, Patrick's tone shifted. "Is your line secure?"

"Yes."

"It seems you still trust William," he teased, noting her confidence while staying in William's territory.

Elise pursed her lips. To be honest, she had spoken without considering William might be listening.

"To be fair, I don't think he's that type of person either," Patrick remarked casually.