William accepted Elise's invitation without hesitation.

She began typing another message.

[Bring James…]

Then her fingers stilled.

She deleted the draft.

Elise left the bathroom and changed into fresh clothes.

She headed out to purchase ingredients for dinner.

How difficult could cooking be?

After gathering everything she needed, she downloaded a cooking app.

She followed the recipes meticulously.

That evening, the doorbell chimed.

Elise still wore her apron as she hurried to answer.

William stood outside, holding a bouquet.

He looked impeccably formal in his black suit and silver tie.

"I came straight from the office," he explained his attire.

Elise smiled knowingly.

She accepted the flowers and handed him his slippers.

"Please come in."

William slipped them on and entered.

An unusual scent immediately caught his attention.

It smelled like food, yet something was off.

His eyes drifted to the dining table.

Several homemade dishes awaited them.

Grilled mackerel.

Vinegar-glazed ribs.

Fluffy omelets.

Creamy mashed potatoes.

Simmering chicken soup.

Something still sizzled in the kitchen pan.

Elise rushed back to the stove, looking flustered.

William approached her. "Do you need any help—"

"Ah!" Elise yelped as oil spattered violently from the pan.

She jumped back, startled.

William couldn't suppress a smile.

He rarely saw this vulnerable, real side of her.

Usually she remained so composed.

"It's fine," she said quickly. "Just wait in the living room. I'll be done soon."

William glanced around the chaotic kitchen.

He noticed the carefully sliced beef and various condiments.

She was attempting beef tenderloin?

That required precise flame control.

Ambitious choice.

Not wanting to distract her further, he retreated.

The kitchen was too small for her to avoid him.

Elise's heart still raced from the oil explosion.

Somehow, she managed to finish the dish.

The cooking app's instructions seemed questionable.

But she couldn't pinpoint exactly why.

She plated the beef tenderloin and brought it to the table.

She arranged the fork, spoon, and knife neatly.

Then she removed her apron and went to change.

William had dressed formally—she shouldn't be too casual.

When they sat down at the modest dining table, the atmosphere felt perfect.

She poured wine for William.

For herself, she chose sparkling juice.

"Is this for my birthday celebration?" William asked.

"Yes," Elise replied softly. "And an apology."

The smile William tried to conceal was unmistakable.