Chapter 117

The items placed on her vanity table were clearly meant for her, just like the property deed before.

Camille frowned slightly as she opened one of the round brocade boxes.

Her breath caught when she saw the contents. It was the emerald jewelry set she'd wanted at the auction last week!

The rectangular box looked heavier. Could it be...?

She set down the first box and opened the second. As expected, it contained a scroll.

Unrolling it carefully on the round table, an exquisite embroidered painting shimmered into view - so lifelike it seemed to breathe.

Holding both auction items she'd coveted days ago, Camille stood silent for a long moment.

These were clearly the gifts Damien had purchased for Helena's birthday.

One would be presented in Helena's name. The other as a joint gift from the couple.

"Mom! I'm done eating! Let's go!" Chloe came bounding up the stairs.

Noticing the open boxes, she peeked inside. "Oh, Dad brought these days ago. Said they're for you."

Camille hummed in response, carefully rerolling the scroll and replacing it.

After storing the boxes safely, they departed.

Chloe wanted to try target shooting, so Camille took her to the range. Then came the rollercoasters. After hours of amusement park fun, Camille needed time for herself.

Chloe begged to stay longer.

Previously, Camille would have relented - always putting her daughter first.

But today, she remained firm. "I have other commitments. The bodyguards can stay with you."

Chloe pouted, clinging to her mother. "Mommm..."

This tactic always worked before.

But this time, Camille gently disentangled herself. "It's important. We'll come again soon."

Seeing her mother's resolute expression, Chloe reluctantly agreed. "Fine..."

After arranging the bodyguards, Camille drove to a distant antique market she'd never visited.

She browsed extensively before finding it - an exquisite scholar's writing set. Fountain pen, iron gall ink, blotting paper, and handmade paper crafted from rare materials with masterful artistry.

It captivated her instantly. Though costing over ten million, a fraction of the embroidery and jewelry's price, she knew her grandmother best.

This set would bring Helena far greater joy than those showpieces.

Running her fingers over the textured paper and pen carvings, Camille could already see Helena's delighted expression.

Yes, this was her personal birthday gift for Grandma.

As for Damien's purchases...

The thought was interrupted by Elise's call.