Chapter 121

Gabriel and Camille exchanged a glance as they walked away from Emmett Harrington.

Emmett caught up with them. "Is there some tension between you and the Lancasters?"

Camille's lips pressed into a thin line. "Not at all."

She wasn't lying - it was far worse than a simple misunderstanding.

But Emmett misinterpreted her response, assuming she genuinely had no issues with Selene's family.

"Good to hear." Emmett adjusted his tie. "Given how highly Damien values Ms. Lancaster, their family's influence is skyrocketing. The Harringtons, especially Damien, aren't to be trifled with. Even if you don't want to associate with them, don't make enemies either."

Camille's lips curved into a bitter smile. The irony was almost amusing.

Who else would be advised to maintain good relations with their husband's mistress because said husband favored the other woman too much?

Gabriel's jaw tightened. "We're not intimidated by Damien Harrington."

Their company had government protection thanks to the NEXA project.

Damien's previous attempts to acquire their firm had failed. With their current project, Gabriel knew they'd soon have even stronger governmental backing.

Within a year, their company would expand beyond Damien's reach.

Gabriel's confidence came from Camille's strategic planning.

Marianne Hartwell's birthday approached this Saturday.

Camille no longer cared whether Damien attended. But Chloe's presence was non-negotiable.

To prevent her daughter from sneaking off to see Selene again, Camille made an early call on Thursday morning.

It was their first conversation since Chloe's return from Lucerne.

"Mom!" Chloe's voice brightened when she saw the caller ID, nearly dropping her fork.

Damien sat across the breakfast table, watching.

"Are you eating?" Camille recognized the muffled speech.

"Yes! Did you eat already?"

"I did." Camille got straight to the point. "Grandmother's birthday is Saturday. Clear your schedule - you're coming with me to celebrate."

Chloe's enthusiasm dimmed. "Oh..."

She'd missed seeing Selene last weekend and hoped to make up for it.

Camille knew that hesitation all too well. "Is your father there?"

Chloe glanced at Damien. "Yes. Do you want to talk to him?"

"Put him on."

Damien took the phone, his voice cool. "What is it?"

"Marianne's birthday is Saturday. Ensure Chloe accompanies me to the Hartwell estate without any... detours."

"Understood."

"I'll pick her up Friday evening."

A pause. Then Camille added, "Thank you."

Damien's response was a noncommittal hum.

Not once had she asked if he was free that day.

Just like always.

The auction gift he'd given her made his intentions clear - she'd be delivering his present to Marianne herself.