Elise had always been cautious of Victoria.

The two months of tranquility had left her unsettled, a constant unease gnawing at her. She feared Victoria might strike unexpectedly, a sudden storm on a clear day.

William’s perspective offered a sliver of relief. At least she was safe until Victoria’s wedding.

With that thought, Elise didn’t prolong her call with William. He was a busy man, and they soon ended the conversation.

She sat in her office for a moment, hesitating. Then, accompanied by the four bodyguards William had arranged, she made her way to the detention center.

In his prison uniform and with a shaved head, William looked noticeably thinner.

He had been losing weight steadily since his arrest.

Even though he always smiled during her visits, the change was impossible to ignore. He wasn’t doing well.

“Don’t look at me like that,” he said, his voice weak. “I know I’m not much to look at right now.”

He was a far cry from the dazzling scion of the Levine family he once was.

Elise averted her gaze. It wasn’t that he looked hideous to her. It was the pain of seeing him so gaunt.

She remembered his gastric issues. He had been so careful, keeping them under control.

A relapse would bring him agonizing pain.

Didn’t he regret putting himself in this position?

“Your grandfather is liquidating the family estates,” Elise told him.

“I know,” William replied. “We spoke before my arrest. Success attracts too much attention. Liquidating is the best way to preserve our legacy. When we have nothing, no one will care about us anymore.”

“Don’t you think it’s a shame?” Elise asked.

Despite his words, it was a vast fortune, a remarkable legacy. To let it all go just like that?

“We’ve had enough money. We’ve enjoyed our time in the spotlight.” William seemed utterly indifferent.

Even Henry wasn’t as relieved about letting go.

Perhaps because William hadn’t built this legacy himself, the loss didn’t cut as deep.

“How is your trial progressing?” Elise couldn’t help but ask.

“It’s going well,” William said. “I just received the court summons for the 27th. That gives me twelve days.”

“Don’t lie to me, William,” Elise said.

Her heart skipped a beat. She was suddenly afraid to face the trial’s outcome, her confidence wavering.

She had no idea how confident William truly was. What if it was the end for everyone?

“I wouldn’t dare,” William said humbly.

“I’m serious.”

“Don’t worry,” William assured her. “If I’m locked up for life, I’ll let you marry someone else.”

When Elise remained silent, he added, “I’m just kidding. You’re not even married to me—”

“I’ll marry you if you get out unharmed,” Elise said suddenly.

William stared at her, stunned.

Happiness had come out of nowhere, leaving him struggling to process it.

“I always keep my promises,” Elise stated clearly.

“Okay.”

His voice quivered, thick with emotion.

“By the way…” Elise quickly changed the subject. Flirting felt inappropriate in these surroundings.

“Yes?”

“Victoria is marrying Frederick Cranston, the third son of the nation’s wealthiest family.”

“Really?” William raised an eyebrow, but showed little interest.

“Aren’t you surprised?”

“Not at all,” William replied. “The Stuarts need power and money to support their ambitions. There aren’t many dynasties in the country that would interest them. Someone was bound to arrange a marriage for Victoria, one way or another.”

Elise asked, “Don’t you feel like you owe her at all?”