Patrick Montgomery maintained a subtle smile, radiating an aura of polished sophistication and grace.

"This feels like my first real red carpet moment," he whispered softly into Elise Scott's ear. "And I have you to thank for it. I'm certain William is plotting my demise right now."

"Focus on the path ahead," Elise retorted, though a smile played on her lips.

Patrick's grin widened as journalists swarmed around them, cameras flashing relentlessly. Questions flew through the air like arrows.

"Mr. Montgomery! What brings you to this charity gala with Miss Scott? Is there something special between you two?"

"Mr. Montgomery! We've heard your grandfather, Montgomery Stuart, has fallen ill. Will he be making an appearance tonight?"

"Mr. Montgomery! Rumors suggest your family has a special announcement planned beyond the charity drive. Could you share any details?"

"Miss Scott! What exactly is your relationship with Mr. Montgomery? Are you here as his companion, or did the Stuarts extend a personal invitation?"

"Miss Scott! Did you design that stunning gown yourself, or is it haute couture?"

"Miss Scott! Stellar Group has been dominating sales figures nationally. Have you considered expanding internationally? Could you outline your upcoming marketing strategies?"

The journalists' inquiries seemed endless. Patrick spoke up first, his voice calm and measured. "We're simply attending as partners tonight. Please don't read too much into it."

One persistent reporter pressed further. "So, the rumors about a joint venture between you and Miss Scott's Stellar Group are true?"

"Partially," Patrick responded smoothly.

The journalists exchanged confused glances. "Partially?"

"We are business partners, but there's no joint management structure. I'm merely an investor, while Elise handles everything from brand marketing to strategic development."

Patrick's words served as an open endorsement of Elise's business capabilities, delivered before the entire press corps.

"Do you really trust Miss Scott that completely, Mr. Montgomery?" another journalist questioned.

"It's beyond trust," Patrick said with a light chuckle. "I'm mostly concerned I'd interfere if I tried to help too much. She's far more capable than I am in these matters."

The journalists laughed along with his self-deprecating humor, the atmosphere turning increasingly friendly.

Still, they continued probing about the Stuart family affairs. Patrick handled each question with practiced ease. "My grandfather is doing well overall. He caught a minor cold recently, and doctors recommended rest, so he won't be joining us tonight. I'll be making donations on his behalf. As for the surprise announcement..." He paused dramatically. "I can't reveal too much since it's meant to be a surprise. Everyone will find out during the gala."

When the attention turned to Elise, she answered with equal poise. "I won't elaborate further on my partnership with Patrick since he's already covered the essentials. I didn't design this gown myself - the dress I originally prepared encountered shipping issues. Patrick arranged this replacement for me, and if I had to guess, it's likely Gigi haute couture."

"You look absolutely breathtaking in it, Miss Scott! Mr. Montgomery has impeccable taste," several journalists complimented.

"Thank you," Elise responded gracefully before continuing. "I received my invitation from Charles Stuart personally. I'm accompanying Patrick tonight since he didn't have a companion. Regarding Stellar Group's marketing plans, I'm afraid those are trade secrets I can't disclose."

Just as the journalists prepared more questions, Patrick smoothly intervened. "Thank you everyone, but we're running on a tight schedule. We need to proceed inside now."

The journalists reluctantly made way as Patrick guided Elise forward. "Thank you! Miss Scott! Mr. Montgomery!"

As Elise turned to leave, her heel caught unexpectedly on the carpet's edge. She stumbled slightly, but Patrick's arm was immediately there to steady her.

Behind them, William Levine had just arrived on the red carpet with Victoria Stuart by his side.