[Of course, I'll send you my address.] Elise quickly typed out her location and sent it to Victoria.

[Thank you. I'll be there within thirty minutes.]

Elise set down her phone and turned her attention to James, who was completely absorbed in a documentary about space exploration. The thought of him leaving tugged at her heartstrings.

Still, she reminded herself that time was on her side. There was no need to rush these moments.

She approached him gently. "Jamie, your godmother wants to spend some time with you tonight."

James had been completely engaged with the program, but his expression immediately fell at the news of his departure.

"She's leaving Crestwood tomorrow," Elise explained softly. "This is your chance to see her before she goes. After she leaves, I promise to have you over every weekend when possible."

"Alright." James nodded obediently.

Though he clearly didn't want to go, he would never make things difficult for Elise.

His willingness to comply only made her heart ache more deeply.

Victoria arrived sooner than expected, in less than half an hour. Elise walked James to the entrance of Crestwood Heights.

"Jamie!" Victoria's voice rang with enthusiasm as she spotted him.

She swept him into a warm, tight embrace.

James pressed his lips together but didn't pull away from the hug.

"Thank you," Victoria said after releasing James from her affectionate hold.

"Of course."

"I'll take good care of Jamie," Victoria assured her.

"Take care."

Victoria took James's hand and began to lead him away. Suddenly, she paused and turned back. "William and I... we're not what you might think. Please don't misunderstand our relationship."

Elise offered a faint smile but remained silent.

Victoria knew the truth of their situation better than anyone.

This was clearly just another attempt to maintain her gracious image, and Elise wasn't about to play along. Though she had no obligation to wish them well either.

When Elise offered no response, Victoria didn't press further, simply guiding James toward the waiting luxury vehicle.

The moment the car door closed, Victoria's pleasant expression vanished.

Elise was far more cunning and complex than she appeared. Every encounter left Victoria struggling to read her—she couldn't even discern what mood Elise was in.

How simple could a woman be if she managed to capture William's attention?

Victoria's lips curled into a cold smirk.

In all these years, she had never faced a worthy rival. She was genuinely curious to discover just how remarkable Elise truly was.