From the moment they first met, William had never shared details about his family with Elise—only his name.

"I am," he confirmed without hesitation, then inquired, "When did you figure it out?"

"Just moments ago," Elise responded. "The clues were all there. Your surname is Levine, you're a single father, and your lavish lifestyle speaks volumes. The only detail that didn't align was..."

William raised an eyebrow as she finished, "You're far more handsome than the rumors suggested."

"You're too kind."

Elise remained silent, knowing she was simply stating the truth.

"I never intended to keep it from you," William said sincerely.

Elise wasn't bothered—their relationship didn't require complete transparency.

Her curiosity had been piqued because Henry Levine's birthday fell on the 17th, and she'd been wondering why William had asked her to keep that date open.

"Well, there's someone who keeps insisting I'm a firefighter," he explained with a neutral tone that carried subtle mockery. "I didn't want you to think I was deceiving you. That's why I planned to properly introduce myself on the 17th."

Elise immediately knew who he meant. "He's always been blind to reality."

William chuckled softly, seeming pleased with her assessment of Samuel.

"It's getting late, Ms. Scott. You should rest soon, though I'm afraid I'll need to leave James with you tonight."

Elise nodded. "Goodnight, Mr. Levine."

After he departed, Elise returned to her bedroom.

For the first time in years, someone else occupied her bed—the experience felt strangely comforting rather than intrusive.

In the soft glow of nightlights, James's peaceful sleeping face filled her chest with unexpected warmth.

Morning arrived, and Elise prepared a simple breakfast: toast, slightly crispy fried eggs, and two glasses of milk.

James ate enthusiastically, praising the meal even though the eggs were clearly overdone, making Elise smile with genuine pleasure.

They had just finished eating when the doorbell chimed.

Elise opened the door to find Charles waiting respectfully outside. "Good morning, Ms. Scott. Master William sent me to collect Master James as he has client meetings all day."

"Won't he be attending kindergarten?" Elise asked.

"Not yet, since we've just returned to the country," Charles explained. "However, he'll be starting elementary school around July—Master William has already secured a spot at a prestigious private institution."

Elise simply nodded.

She'd asked out of casual interest—Charles didn't owe her detailed explanations.

"These are Master James's clothes," Charles continued, presenting a large box.

Elise frowned. "He only needs one change, doesn't he?"

"Master William insisted on providing multiple outfits for convenience, in case Master James stays over again. Besides clothing, there are also toiletries, toothbrushes, and towels included."

Elise wondered if she had any choice in the matter.

"May I come in to organize Master James's belongings?"

"Please do," Elise said gratefully.

"Oh," Charles remembered, "Master William also asked me to bring these loafers. Shall I place them in your shoe cabinet?"

He showed her the elegant leather shoes, and Elise pressed her lips together but nodded silently.

Once inside, Charles helped James change into fresh clothes, then neatly arranged the boy's belongings in an empty section of Elise's wardrobe.

With everything organized, he announced, "We should be going now, Ms. Scott. You have work to attend to."

"Mommy..." James's voice trembled with reluctance.

"I'll see you tomorrow," Elise promised, though her own heart ached at his departure.