After William and Victoria left the swarm of reporters and stepped into the grand hall, Victoria turned to him. "You're not upset, are you? That I didn't tell the press that James wasn't my biological son."

"Not at all," William responded, his voice completely devoid of emotion.

It felt as though William was indifferent to her actions, even when performed right before his eyes. Sometimes Victoria felt like a performer in an empty theater, entertaining no one but herself.

Her eyes glinted with cold determination. She reminded herself that he would belong to her eventually—that was the only acceptable outcome.

For now, she could endure whatever indifference he showed her.

Composing herself, she offered a warm, gracious smile. "I simply didn't want people speaking poorly of James, particularly since his birth mother remains unknown. I'm concerned about potential psychological effects. I've considered him my own since he was just an infant."

"I understand," William replied, though his tone made it clear he had no genuine interest in her explanation.

As they entered the main ballroom, the crowd was sparse—only those with significant status attended charity events hosted by families as prestigious as the Stuarts.

The guests consisted of top-tier business leaders and individuals with notable political influence. In short, ordinary people would only encounter such figures through television screens or media coverage.

Nevertheless, William and Victoria's entrance captured everyone's attention, as they were the evening's honored guests.

From the beginning, Charles had insisted this charity ball be held in his granddaughter Victoria's name. This marked the first time the event honored a Stuart grandchild, demonstrating how highly Charles regarded Victoria—not even James had received such recognition before!

When Victoria arrived with William, the hall erupted in enthusiastic applause.

All eyes followed as William escorted Victoria through the ballroom, gracefully mingling with each distinguished guest, moving effortlessly through the elegant crowd.

William wore a tailored tailcoat tuxedo with a bowtie instead of his usual necktie. His handsome features appeared even more sharply defined and sculpted, making him an irresistible presence in the ballroom.

Meanwhile, Victoria wore a stunning crimson gown.

Unlike the pink dress that highlighted her open, confident personality, the red emphasized her noble passion—it was an unmistakable declaration that she was the evening's main attraction.

Standing beside William, who projected handsome, lofty detachment, Victoria's beauty, passion, and approachable nature created a perfect complement to his reserved demeanor.

"Feeling jealous?" Patrick asked Elise as they observed William and Victoria circulating among nearby guests.

"Not in the slightest," Elise replied, her gaze also fixed on the pair. "I genuinely hope they find their happily ever after."

"I'd prefer that outcome never materializes," Patrick chuckled.

He intercepted a passing waiter, taking a glass of water and exchanging it for Elise's wine glass, earning a frown from her.

"Water is better during your cycle," Patrick informed her.

"How could you possibly know that?" Elise asked, studying his face intently.

"You were carrying sanitary products when you visited the restroom this afternoon during our flight."

"...That's remarkably observant of you," Elise remarked dryly.

"You flatter me."

They continued their light conversation until a familiar presence appeared before them.

Elise looked up to find William standing directly in front of them, with Victoria positioned gracefully at his side.