Elise considered Ethan far more dependable in corporate roles than Elizabeth.

William's response was immediate: [My grandfather forbids it.]

Just as confusion began to cloud Elise's thoughts, he elaborated.

[Since Ethan is adopted, my grandfather wants to prevent any potential power struggles within Levine Holdings that could disrupt family harmony.]

Elise understood the reasoning, yet she couldn't ignore the glaring injustice toward Ethan.

Did anyone ever consider his feelings?

She quickly realized William was redirecting the conversation—a skill he'd perfected.

[So, you're not going to help Elizabeth?]

[She'll manage on her own. If she can't, she'll come to me.]

Fair enough.

Elise reasoned that since Elizabeth was a Levine, the family wouldn't stand by while she faced harassment.

As she closed the chat window and prepared to focus on work, another message appeared.

[That's it?]

Elise frowned—what else was there to discuss?

It was still office hours, and her workload was substantial.

Most importantly, Crestwood Channel (CC) was launching a fashion reality show where celebrities would wear creations from various designers. Elise saw this as a prime opportunity to expand Stellar Fashion's clientele through publicity.

Yet William persisted: [How long has it been since we last saw each other?]

How long?

Wait—it had been over a week!

[We haven't met since we officially started dating.]

William's words carried a sigh, while Elise pressed her lips together—he wasn't wrong.

He teased: [Is this what you meant by dating, Ms. Scott? Virtual romance, specifically?]

Feeling slightly defensive since William had agreed to her terms, she retorted: [I warned you I'd be busy.]

His reply was characteristically unreasonable: [There's always time for love.]

[Love doesn't pay the bills.]

[It nourishes the soul.]

[Have I been starving you?]

[Yes. I have substantial emotional needs.]

The flirtatious tone was unmistakable.

Elise quickly typed: [I haven't seen James in ages. Let's have dinner together—I'll finish work on time.]

[…]

[It's settled then. See you after work.]

[…Fine.]

Reluctant agreement came from the man, while Elise smiled victoriously.

She returned her attention to preparing for the fashion reality show, registering without hesitation.

There would be preliminary selections. Only chosen designers would create dresses for assigned celebrities before presenting them on the runway during recording.

CC's programs consistently drew large audiences, and few fashion brands would decline such free exposure.

Unsurprisingly, renowned designers from major national labels were participating, making competition intense.

Even Sophia noticed the competition after a friend alerted her.

She had remained unemployed at home since Elise dismissed her.

She refused to work at Scott Enterprise either, since she'd merely be serving her younger brother Daniel with no chance of inheriting the company. She'd have to endure his dramatic temper, just like her aunt.

She would never willingly accept such humiliation, making this publicity opportunity particularly appealing.

Wasn't this her chance to restore her reputation and shine?