Elise's eyes were red-rimmed and glistening with unshed tears. She deliberately avoided looking out the window at William's retreating figure.

She couldn't quite describe the hollow ache spreading through her chest. It felt like part of her soul had been torn away, leaving her struggling for breath.

The helicopter touched down in a suburban clearing exactly thirty minutes later. Patrick's black sedan waited below, surrounded by additional security vehicles. His protection detail had significantly increased since the accident.

Elise struggled to disembark with her crutches. The awkward movement made her wince in discomfort.

Suddenly, a pale, well-manicured hand appeared before her. She looked up to find Patrick in his wheelchair, offering assistance.

Though he had sustained serious injuries in the same incident, she didn't hesitate to grasp his arm for support. Together, they made their way to his waiting car.

The helicopter lifted off behind them as they drove away. Elise finally understood why William had insisted his estate was secure.

The location was nearly impossible to find. Tracking a helicopter presented its own challenges. Even if someone managed to locate the property, assaulting such an elevated position offered no tactical advantage.

Elise stared blankly at the sky where the helicopter had vanished. Patrick studied her profile thoughtfully.

"You really didn't want to leave him, did you?" he asked quietly.

"That's not true," Elise denied, lowering her gaze.

Patrick observed her carefully composed expression. Despite her efforts to conceal it, the evidence of recent tears was unmistakable.

"Why not stay with William? There's no doubt he can protect you," Patrick commented neutrally.

"Sorry to disappoint you, but I told him to marry Victoria," Elise replied, meeting his gaze directly.

Patrick looked momentarily surprised before shrugging. "If you believe that's the right decision. We're merely business partners, and you're entitled to make your own choices. You've been clear about your boundaries from the beginning, and I never held excessive expectations. Still, I'm curious what prompted such a definitive break."

"That's personal," Elise said firmly.

"Understood," Patrick accepted without pressing further.

The car entered Rockville's bustling downtown district, eventually stopping before an upscale café.

"Are you certain about going in alone?" Patrick verified.

"I wouldn't have requested you bring me here otherwise."

"And you're absolutely sure you don't want me to accompany you?"

"Given your current condition, I think it's better if I handle this myself," Elise said with a slight smile, glancing meaningfully at his injured leg.

Patrick chuckled softly. "That's rich, coming from someone on crutches."

As Elise prepared to exit the vehicle, Patrick suddenly caught her wrist. "Wait."

Elise's fingers twitched involuntarily. Even knowing his preferences, she still felt uncomfortable with physical contact.

Patrick seemed unaffected as he pressed a small device resembling a USB drive into her palm. "Press this button if you sense any danger. My team will intervene immediately."

Elise studied Patrick's determined expression. "I always repay my debts. You saved me, so I'll ensure your safety until this situation is resolved."

Elise accepted the device without argument, slipping it into her purse.

"Thank you," she said before stepping out alone.

"Be careful," Patrick called after her, watching her retreating form with an unreadable expression.

Two men in dark suits stood guard outside the café's private VIP room.