An entire month had passed without Elise encountering William Levine. No phone calls. No text messages.

She hadn't expected any, either.

Her days were consumed by Stellar Group's latest venture, Stellar Couture. The fashion line's market entry had been remarkably smooth, capturing significant attention. Daily sales figures climbed steadily. Consequently, Stellar Group's stock value rose in tandem, steadily closing the gap with—and even overtaking—several long-established elite corporations in Crestwood. Of course, reaching the very top echelon, dominated by multi-generational legacies, remained a distant goal.

Nevertheless, her ascent was undeniably rapid. Throughout business circles, she was widely hailed as the most formidable dark horse to emerge in the past ten years.

Yet, Elise understood this widespread acclaim was a double-edged sword. She knew the perils of excessive visibility. A nagging suspicion hinted that someone was deliberately thrusting her into the spotlight.

She played along, regardless. The situation was beyond her sole control. She now bore responsibilities—to herself and to her partners.

Her partnership with Patrick Montgomery had progressed over the past month. Their communication occurred mostly online, as Patrick was seldom in Crestwood. Elise punctually submitted business management plans and revenue reports. This regular contact fostered a familiar, efficient working relationship.

After sending the weekly revenue report, Patrick called. He was direct, as always. Despite his polished exterior, he was decisively swift, prizing efficiency above all. "Will you come to Rockville?"

"Why?" Elise inquired, though she sensed the reason.

"My grandfather wishes to meet you."

"On what grounds?" Elise was taken aback.

"Simple curiosity." Patrick chuckled lightly.

Elise remained unamused. "Our partnership is founded on creating market value and confronting a mutual adversary, Victoria Stuart. I wasn't informed it involved meeting family members."

"Relax. My grandfather is harmless."

"My apologies, but I must decline," Elise stated firmly.

"Incidentally," Patrick shifted topics, "Victoria's family is hosting a charity gala in the city. My intuition tells me you'll receive an invitation."

Elise raised an eyebrow. "And my attendance is mandatory?"

"If events proceed unchecked, her family plans to formally announce her wedding date with William Levine during the gala."

"If it's a settled matter, perhaps you should abandon efforts to separate them," Elise replied calmly. "Focusing on our partnership seems more productive. Our rising market value could still shift the balance of power."

"True. You've proven far more capable than I initially estimated. A solid partnership will undoubtedly secure our foothold in the business world," Patrick acknowledged, his tone then sharpening. "However, the game isn't over until the final move. Opportunities for reversal always exist. I am not one to concede prematurely."

"In that case, pursue your chosen path," Elise replied, her interest in the topic waning.

Patrick seemed to share the sentiment. The call ended abruptly.

A knock sounded at Elise's door. Matthew Johnson entered, holding an envelope. "We've received an invitation from the Stuart family. A charity ball in Rockville. Next Saturday, 7 p.m."

Elise examined the invitation. It was personally signed by Charles Stuart himself.

A personal summons from the family patriarch. Refusal would be a blatant snub.

This explained Patrick's confidence in her attendance.

Her phone rang. She frowned upon seeing the caller ID: William Levine.

A month of silence... or had it been? His presence was constant in various news reports, always pictured alongside Victoria.

She knew he had spent the entire month in Rockville. By Victoria's side.

Despite this, she answered.

"Did you get the Stuart invitation?" William's voice was immediate, devoid of greeting.

"I did," Elise confirmed.

"Don't come," William commanded, his voice clear and emphatic.