The dinner was served with elegant precision.

A servant approached William Levine with respectful hesitation. "Mr. Levine," he began quietly. "About the formal wear from last night—you did instruct us to dispose of it?"

The servant's uncertainty was understandable. William's wardrobe consisted of pieces worth fortunes. Discarding anything without absolute certainty could mean financial ruin for any staff member responsible.

William nodded without looking up from his plate. "Yes."

The servant seemed to have more questions, but recognizing the vast gap between their worlds, he simply bowed. "Understood, Mr. Levine."

He retreated silently from the dining room.

Elise watched him leave before turning her gaze to William.

"You could just send me back to Crestwood," Elise said suddenly. She couldn't imagine her presence brought him any comfort.

Being caught between two women would frustrate any man.

William rejected the idea immediately. "I prefer having you nearby."

"How long do you plan to keep me here?"

"We'll see." He offered no definite timeline.

Elise pressed her lips together, deciding not to push further.

She was certain he would release her when his wedding date with Victoria approached next month.

Meanwhile, in Crestwood, Elizabeth stood before her mirror in a black babydoll nightgown.

She had specifically purchased it for this occasion, selecting the most daring design after extensive shopping.

Yet her hands trembled as she adjusted the delicate straps—not from cold, but from nerves.

She couldn't understand her anxiety. As an actress, she had experienced nearly everything.

Tonight was simply about celebrating Nathan's birthday, with herself as the ultimate gift.

It should have been simple. Nothing to feel embarrassed about.

She felt certain Nathan would lose all self-control when he saw her dressed like this.

Her phone chimed, making her heart leap.

Seeing Nathan's name, her smile widened. "Are you on your way?" she asked.

It was only 5 PM. He had promised to arrive by 6 PM.

Though it was his birthday, he had family obligations earlier in the day. Since he refused a formal celebration, a small gathering with relatives had been arranged. He assured her he would come immediately after.

Or so he had said.

Nathan had always been enthusiastic about her, so she expected him to arrive early. She had prepared everything accordingly.

However, Nathan sounded apologetic on the phone. "I'm sorry, Elizabeth. It looks like I'll be late tonight. Andrew won't let me leave. He insists on drinking the night away with me. I tried to refuse, but he's being stubborn. He threatened to come along if I tried to leave. Honestly, I don't want him disturbing our time together, so I'll come over after I get him properly drunk."

"Alright." Disappointment tinged her voice. She had put so much effort into preparing for tonight. Still, she understood Andrew and the others would want to keep Nathan—their childhood bond was rare and precious. "It's fine. Come whenever you can. I'll be waiting."

"I'll get there as soon as possible."

Elizabeth laughed softly. "No need to rush. The night is still young."

Nathan clearly caught her meaning, and he had his own plans for the evening.

"Could you wipe that grin off your face?" Andrew's voice came through clearly, suddenly appearing beside Nathan.

Nathan rolled his eyes and told Elizabeth, "I'll see you later."

"Yes."

The smile remained on Nathan's face even after hanging up—maintaining composure was difficult when he felt this delighted.

"Finished talking to your girl?" Andrew asked. "We're having dinner at your place, then continuing drinks later."

"Yes." Nathan replied.

"Wait, she doesn't mind?" Andrew sounded surprised.

"I told you. She's perfect," Nathan said smugly.

"I find that hard to believe. Do you buy this, Ethan?" Andrew turned toward Ethan, trying to provoke Nathan. "I wouldn't believe it unless you brought her to meet us properly."