Elise's tone dripped with sarcasm. "Samuel Mitchell certainly knows how to take credit for others' accomplishments."

She had poured her soul into Mitchell Corp, only to watch Samuel claim every achievement as his own.

She never minded before, believing their relationship made them partners. Now she saw how foolish she had been.

"How did you two finally break up?" Elizabeth asked curiously. "Don't tell me a simple fire could burn away years of feelings."

"He fell for my stepsister."

"Sophia Mitchell?" Elizabeth's lips curled in disdain. "That two-faced snake."

"You can see through her?"

"Anyone with half a brain can. Unfortunately, most men seem to be missing that particular organ."

Elise smiled—Elizabeth spoke with such refreshing honesty. She felt unexpectedly touched by their connection.

This was only their second meeting, yet they clicked instantly. Even Elise had to acknowledge their rare compatibility.

Growing up, Elise had always been solitary by nature. Friends never came easily to her.

She'd maintained a few close relationships over the years, but everything changed after the scandal eighteen years ago.

People avoided her as if her misfortune were contagious. Gradually, Elise grew accustomed to solitude.

Sometimes she wondered if her loneliness abroad made her vulnerable to Samuel's advances. She had believed their relationship unshakable.

As their conversation flowed, so did the alcohol.

Elise hadn't intended to get drunk, but the camaraderie proved irresistible. She found herself matching Elizabeth drink for drink.

Her phone vibrated on the table. She glanced at the screen before answering. "Yes, Matthew?"

"Ms. Scott, I've sent the official documents, photos, and video highlights from Ms. York's photoshoot to your phone. Please review them. If everything looks good, I'll forward them to PR and Ms. York's management company for final approval. We're scheduled to release across all major platforms at 10:10 PM."

"Understood." Elise ended the call and scrolled through the materials on her phone.

She showed the screen to Elizabeth. "Take a look. These are the highlights and official announcements we'll be publishing soon."

Elizabeth studied the content briefly. "Perfect. I look stunning in these shots. More importantly, the designs are exceptional."

"I'll give the green light then."

"By all means."

Elise sent a quick confirmation text to Matthew before returning to their feast.

By 9:30 PM, two cartons of beer stood empty between them.

Elizabeth was visibly intoxicated, though Elise fared little better.

Occasionally, Elise sensed Elizabeth might be drowning sorrows, though she mostly appeared to simply enjoy drinking.

Elizabeth didn't strike her as someone burdened by sadness.

"Let's get you home," Elise said, helping Elizabeth to her feet.

"No," Elizabeth mumbled, leaning heavily against Elise. "I want to sleep at your place."

Elise blinked in surprise as Elizabeth continued, "We're practically family anyway."

If William weren't in the picture, Elise might have suspected Elizabeth was flirting with her.