Minor disruptions in the grand ballroom rarely captured widespread attention. Elise Scott's entrance caused only fleeting glances. The glittering crowd quickly returned to their conversations. Their focus remained on networking with Crestwood's elite.

Elise moved toward a secluded corner. She scanned the room while remaining unobtrusive. Some faces looked familiar from business events. Many were strangers, likely not from Crestwood. This confirmed the event's national significance.

Her primary concern remained locating James. Separation had intensified her maternal longing. Her eyes continuously searched the shifting crowd.

An unfamiliar male voice interrupted her thoughts. "Elise Scott?"

She turned toward the speaker. His face sparked vague recognition, but specifics eluded her.

He noticed her hesitation and scowled. "Brandon Miller." Annoyance sharpened his tone. He hadn't anticipated being forgotten.

Elise remained perplexed. She mentally reviewed business contacts without success. Her meticulous nature ensured she remembered every professional acquaintance. This man didn't fit any category.

Brandon observed her genuine confusion with growing irritation. "Elise Scott! Most men appreciate subtle games, but this is excessive!"

She considered offering polite greetings despite her uncertainty. Social decorum mattered at William Levine's events. But respect required reciprocity.

Without another word, she turned to leave.

"Elise Scott!" Brandon's surprise at her dismissal made him grasp her arm.

"Release me immediately unless you want a public scene," she warned coldly.

He reluctantly let go, remembering his precarious position. Being included among Levine Holdings employees was privilege enough. "We met at Scott Manor. Your father Benjamin introduced us."

Recognition finally dawned. This was the man her father had tried to matchmake. Her thorough rejection had erased him from memory.

"Satisfied?" Brandon sneered.

"Unimportant people don't occupy my memory," she retorted without hesitation.

"You're incredibly arrogant!" he snapped.

"My character is none of your concern, Mr. Miller." She attempted departure again.

"Elise Scott! Do you understand who you're dismissing?!" His voice rose, drawing nearby glances.

After their initial meeting, he'd repeatedly expressed interest to Benjamin Scott. Elise had ignored all overtures. William Levine's demanding standards had consumed his time recently.

Now that he'd finally found her, surrender wasn't an option.