"You know exactly who James's mother is," Ethan stated firmly.

"What I'm trying to explain is that according to our nation's regulations, any descendant of someone with a criminal record is prohibited from holding public office. Of course, James becoming a politician seems unlikely right now, but circumstances can change. Our family might need direct political connections someday. You understand perfectly why members of the Levine family maintain positions in government."

"Currently, most people don't know Elise is James's mother, but you're aware how ruthless politics can be. Any flaw in someone's background will inevitably be exposed by their opponents when the time is right."

Ethan paused briefly before delivering his final point. "And now, the most crucial question..."

He took a deliberate breath before continuing. "Do you truly believe William will eventually marry Victoria? Father, weren't you pressured by circumstances when you agreed to the Stuarts' proposal? William didn't refuse immediately because he understands your difficult position. So why can't you understand his? Don't let his respect and affection for you vanish over this."

Silence filled Henry's study after Ethan's words. After waiting without response, Ethan spoke politely. "I'll take my leave now. I won't disturb you further."

"Ethan."

Henry's voice stopped him.

"Yes?"

"You were never incompetent," Henry acknowledged quietly. "I only prevented you from working at Levine Holdings because of your background. It's something the family and I cannot accept."

"I've never complained about that decision. I would have starved on the streets if you hadn't taken me in," Ethan responded. Then he added, "William is exceptional. He's more than capable of carrying our family's legacy. Entrusting him with Levine Holdings was your wisest decision."

Henry looked up and nodded slowly. The truth needed no disguising now.

The phone on Henry's desk rang suddenly. Lawrence quickly answered it. His expression darkened as he listened, then he lowered the receiver. "Sir, they're reporting that Master William has disappeared."

Henry's eyes narrowed sharply. Ethan appeared slightly tense.

"Should I order more people to search for him?" Lawrence inquired.

Henry hesitated momentarily before responding. "Let it be. Leave him alone."

"Yes, Master Levine," Lawrence replied.

Ethan quietly exhaled in relief. Henry told him, "You may go. I'm tired."

No explanation was needed. 'Let it be' made Henry's position perfectly clear. Ethan left the study and pulled out his phone.

But he lowered it before making the call.

To Elizabeth, he might as well be dead.

Elizabeth was indeed throwing an epic tantrum in Samantha's office. She had been ranting about Victoria all afternoon.

"I can't believe this! How could she be so wicked? How?! She always appears so cheerful and carefree, acting like she's not calculating at all! But she's completely rotten inside! I know nobody's perfect in this world—in fact, the more perfect they seem, the more hypocritical they usually are!"

Samantha was genuinely impressed by Elizabeth's energy. Didn't she ever get tired?! She'd heard Elizabeth's reality TV filming lasted until 2 AM.

Then Elizabeth woke up at 7 AM for another studio session.

That shoot continued until noon, and she ate lunch in the car while rushing to catch her flight home.

She probably didn't sleep on the plane either, and now she'd been in Samantha's office for two hours, ranting nonstop without pausing for breath.

Just as Samantha turned to tell her to take a break, she noticed Elizabeth had already collapsed on the couch. She was fast asleep with her mouth wide open.

Faint snoring sounds emerged, making Samantha smile.

Elizabeth would have been such a carefree, happy person if she'd never met Ethan.

Samantha brought a blanket over and was about to cover Elizabeth when the door suddenly opened.

Turning, Samantha saw Andrew and Ethan entering together.