As the car's interior warmed, a subtle, woody fragrance from Elijah permeated the air, creating an uncomfortably intimate atmosphere. She shifted her gaze to the nocturnal cityscape, noting his silhouette reflected in the window. Despite their proximity, unspoken words hung between them.

The car stopped outside Bayview Villa. Elizabeth glanced at Elijah, still engrossed in his laptop. Without waiting for Oliver, she opened the door and stepped onto the pavement. She had taken only a few steps toward the villa's entrance when the door swung open. Willow emerged, her welcoming smile vanishing the moment her eyes met Elizabeth's.

"Why is it you?" she exclaimed, her tone a mixture of surprise and displeasure.

Ten minutes earlier, the driver had returned with foreign doctors, leading Willow to believe Elijah was bringing Sandra back. The language barrier hindered her interaction with them. Seeing Elizabeth, Willow immediately suspected trouble.

Elijah arrived, catching Willow's words. His expression hardened. Oliver intervened sharply, "How dare you address Ms. Sandra in such a manner?"

Startled, Willow hastily corrected herself. "I'm so sorry, Mr. James. The joy of seeing Ms. Sandra again made me speak out of turn."

Elijah's response was cold and firm. "If you cannot maintain the dignity of your position, perhaps you should seek other employment."

A lump formed in Willow's throat; tears welled in her eyes. Such lucrative positions were rare. Dismissal would tarnish her reputation, closing doors to future employment with wealthy families. Overwhelmed, her face drained of color as she stammered, "I… I…"

Unable to speak, she knelt before Elizabeth, striking her own face repeatedly. The slaps echoed sharply, leaving red marks on her cheeks. She begged earnestly, "Ms. Sandra, it's so rare to see you here. I couldn't comprehend it! Please, don't judge me too harshly. Could you give me another chance?"

Elizabeth stepped back, her expression hardening. "The decision rests with Mr. James, not me," she replied distantly. She wasn't known for endless patience, and post-divorce, she considered the matter none of her concern.

Desperate, Willow pleaded with Elijah, "Mr. James, Ms. Sandra has forgiven me. Please…"

Seeing Elizabeth's calm demeanor, Elijah mistakenly interpreted it as approval. He responded coldly, "Let's ensure this doesn't happen again."

"Oh, thank you, Mr. James. Thank you, Ms. Sandra," Willow said, rising abruptly and smoothing her dress with a forced smile. Yet, a flicker of resentment darkened her eyes as she looked at Elizabeth. She blamed Elizabeth for her humiliation. Had Elizabeth not returned unexpectedly, would Elijah have even considered dismissing her? This incident solidified Willow's resolve to prevent the couple's reconciliation. As long as Elizabeth remained, Willow's future seemed bleak.

While fetching slippers, Willow asked, "The doctors are waiting. May I ask what concerns you today, Mr. James?"