Elise knew that if William made the call, she wouldn't need any referral to secure Elizabeth York's endorsement.

"From my perspective, you're the perfect person for this, Mr. Parker," Elise stated confidently.

Ethan didn't hesitate. "I'll check her schedule and get back to you."

"Thank you."

"My pleasure."

On the other end, Ethan was sitting before a video monitor, taking a brief break between shooting scenes.

He turned to his assistant. "Bring me Elizabeth York's schedule for the next week."

"Right away, Mr. Parker."

Soon, Ethan had the schedule in his hands. After studying it carefully, he stood and moved to a quiet corner to make a call.

"William," he said when the call connected.

"Yes?"

"Elise Scott just contacted me." Ethan got straight to the point.

Silence filled the other end of the line, and Ethan smiled faintly. "She wants me to arrange a meeting with Elizabeth to discuss an endorsement deal."

"Is that so?"

"I agreed. If everything works out, they could meet this evening."

Their filming schedule remained relatively light since production had just begun.

"You two seem quite close." William's cool voice carried a distinct edge.

"Not at all—just acquaintances who happened to cross paths," Ethan said with a light chuckle. "Anyway, I wanted to give you a heads-up. I need to get back to work now."

William abruptly ended the call, and Ethan chuckled again.

The man was as predictably petty as ever.

Ethan slipped his phone back into his pocket and turned to find Elizabeth.

She noticed the smile on his face but remained expressionless as she walked past him.

"Elizabeth," Ethan called out, and she paused.

"You only have two scenes this afternoon, so you should be finished by four."

"And your point is?" Elizabeth asked flatly.

"A friend wants to discuss an endorsement with you. If you're available, you could have dinner with her—"

"I'm having dinner with Samantha." Elizabeth cut him off immediately. "If it's about an endorsement, talk to my manager. You have her number, don't you? Or do you need me to give it to you again?"

"It's your brother's friend, Elise Scott," Ethan said bluntly.

At Henry Levine's birthday banquet, she had been observing from a corner while her maternal grandfather, parents, and brother greeted guests. She had certainly noticed the drama involving her brother and Elise.

Though her brother had spent years abroad, she kept close tabs on his personal life. He never had any women around him, except for one particular woman... But since nothing had happened between them after all this time, it seemed unlikely anything would.

Yet somehow, Elise had managed to break through his celibate streak?!

Fine.

Elizabeth could admit to herself that she felt at least somewhat curious about Elise.

"I'll arrange the time and place if that works for you," Ethan continued.

"Are you coming along?" Elizabeth asked. "To the dinner, I mean."

Ethan met her gaze steadily. "I can stay out of it if you prefer."

"Then let me know once you've made the arrangements."

"Will do."

As Ethan watched her walk away, his expression darkened slightly.

He texted Elise the details, confirming the time and location.

Elise was surprised by his efficiency. He had handled the matter so quickly! Still, she had sensed his reliability ever since he took her to the hospital. After thanking him, she sent another message: [Would it be appropriate if I visited the set?]

She wanted to demonstrate her sincerity as a potential business partner.

[Of course. Elizabeth should finish around four.]

Ethan sent her the location as well.

Elise checked the time and called Matthew. "Order some premium confectionery from Pheasant Court and have it delivered to the address I'm sending you by three o'clock. They're filming Pomp and Circumstance there right now. Just say it's from Elizabeth York."

"Yes, Ms. Scott."

"Also, you'll accompany me there at two."

"Understood."

After hanging up, Elise returned to her work, determined to complete everything before leaving.