Elise Scott was one of many submitting tenders to acquire Levine Holdings.

She had no interest in the Levine family estate itself. But she felt compelled to preserve something for James.

Who could predict the future? Sometimes a single ember could reignite an entire blaze.

Besides, she remained partners with Patrick Montgomery, who was equally determined to acquire Levine Holdings. He offered her unlimited financial backing without hesitation. They frequently strategized about which subsidiaries or shares to target for a successful takeover.

It became routine for Patrick to share insider information after their business discussions. Though he presented it as casual generosity, Elise suspected he simply enjoyed gossiping like a bored socialite.

"Victoria will announce her new engagement in just a few days," Patrick revealed.

Elise frowned.

She'd heard from Patrick previously that Victoria's family had swiftly reined her in. But this development seemed remarkably fast!

William's trial hadn't even begun, yet Victoria was already remarrying?

"Which family this time?" Elise inquired.

She'd asked before, but Patrick had claimed ignorance until now. He never withheld information from Elise—it served no purpose, and she lacked sufficient influence anyway.

"The Cranstons from the capital," Patrick stated solemnly.

Elise's brow furrowed deeply.

The Cranstons were the wealthiest family in the nation. The Stuarts, despite their considerable influence, ranked only fourth.

Somehow, they'd managed to latch onto the Cranstons' coattails?!

This maneuver perfectly aligned with the Stuarts' character—with William no longer an option, they needed someone superior to avoid losing face.

"Doesn't that concern you?" Elise asked Patrick.

Previously, Charles Stuart had operated within established boundaries, cultivating political connections through conventional methods while maintaining business dominance. Now he was vaulting ahead by aligning with a more powerful family. Success would easily dethrone the Montgomery family.

"Absolutely. Haven't you noticed I've been visiting less frequently lately?" Patrick admitted.

His family had been thrown into disarray upon learning Victoria would marry Frederick Cranston, the Cranstons' third son.

"Do you have a strategy?" Elise pressed.

"It's all subterfuge at this stage," Patrick replied. "I'd prefer not to discuss details yet."

Elise didn't press further. Sometimes ignorance provided protection, and she didn't want to burden Patrick unnecessarily.

"Incidentally, William's trial begins in two weeks. Has he gathered evidence for his defense? Without proof of innocence, the enormous capital involved could mean twenty-five years to life. Possibly even a life sentence."

Elise bit her lip.

She hadn't visited William often, but each encounter left her with the distinct impression he would emerge unscathed.

She'd previously wondered about the source of his confidence. Now, her only choice was to trust him completely.

"Well, we enjoyed two months of peace," Patrick sighed. "Now the ominous feeling of impending chaos returns. Fortunately, the Stuarts are keeping Victoria tightly controlled. Otherwise, she'd have harassed you relentlessly by now. Her family fears any outburst could jeopardize her wedding to Frederick Cranston."