Elizabeth was completely stunned.

She never questioned Ethan and Amanda's connection. After all, when Elise had publicly shamed Amanda on live television, Ethan hadn't batted an eye at Amanda's obvious guilt. He'd shielded her, protecting her from the aggressive journalists. That told her everything she needed to know about their bond.

But she never anticipated Ethan would bring Amanda home to meet his parents this quickly.

Even if Ethan wasn't Henry's biological son, he'd always remained loyal to the strict patriarch. Amanda, however, had a reputation in tatters, her career in entertainment utterly ruined.

The Mitchell family, mired in their own scandals, hadn't even received an invitation to the prestigious Levine Holdings' 60th-anniversary gala.

Was Ethan truly not concerned that Henry would slam the door in Amanda's face the moment she arrived?

As these thoughts raced through Elizabeth's mind, Amanda misinterpreted her silence for bitter jealousy.

Truthfully, Amanda herself was shocked by Ethan's invitation to dine at Levine Manor.

His demeanor towards her was, at best, detached. She never imagined he would take her to his family home.

However, his protection during her most vulnerable moment was merely repayment. He had used her to clear his name after that messy scandal with Elizabeth.

He had been brutally clear about that that night.

No matter how pathetically she had pleaded or how many tears she had shed, he had deposited her at her doorstep and left without a backward glance.

Weeks had passed, and their only physical contact remained the staged photos for their relationship announcement. She hadn't even managed to hold his hand since.

Then, today, he called. He informed her she was accompanying him to Levine Manor for dinner.

Even though he stated it was strictly to meet his parents, a flicker of happiness ignited within her.

That's why she was here now, playing the part of the devoted girlfriend. She'd brought lavish treats for the crew, deliberately ensuring Elizabeth found out.

Seeing Elizabeth's reaction was deeply satisfying. Amanda sneered, "I suppose you understand your position now."

"Ha!"

Elizabeth let out a sharp, disdainful laugh. Without another word, she turned and strode away, her posture impeccable.

Elizabeth's beauty was undeniable. The elegant line of her back and the confident sway of her hips embodied a true leading lady.

Watching her walk away fueled Amanda's fury.

What right did she have to be so arrogant?!

Once Amanda solidified her relationship with Ethan and secured the power of the Levine name, her first order of business would be to destroy Elizabeth's career.

Elizabeth and Penelope headed straight for her private van, utterly indifferent to Amanda's seething glare.

As they passed a crew lounge, however, they couldn't avoid overhearing gossip.

Elizabeth, ever curious about chatter, especially when it involved her, paused to listen.

Two crew members were inside. One, munching on the expensive pastries Amanda had brought, said, "I always thought Elizabeth was prettier than Amanda, but you have to admit, Amanda's generous. This stuff is from the most exclusive tearoom in Crestwood. Must've cost a fortune. It's good to be rich."

"The wealthy stick with the wealthy," the other commented with a shrug. "Pity Elizabeth lost that ticket."

"Lost? Did she ever even want it? Have you seen how sweet and adoring Amanda is around Ethan? You can't fake that look in your eyes. Elizabeth? She barely glances his way unless it's scripted. A woman that proud is too much work. Honestly, Ethan and Amanda seem perfectly suited."

The other crew member chuckled. "Those pastries really bought your loyalty, huh?"

"I call it like I see it…"

Penelope, standing beside Elizabeth, had heard enough. She was ready to storm in and give them a piece of her mind.

But a glance at Elizabeth showed her completely unruffled, as if the conversation was about a stranger.

Before Penelope could charge forward, Elizabeth shot her a sharp, silencing look.

They continued walking. Penelope marveled at Elizabeth's composure, wondering how she managed to remain so unaffected.