Chapter 131

Silence stretched between Camille and Damien.

Camille's younger cousins rarely had the opportunity to see Damien in person. Now that he stood before them, their curious gazes lingered.

Years of commanding power had instilled an undeniable authority in Damien's presence. When he noticed their stares, he acknowledged them with a brief nod.

The intensity of his gaze made them look away immediately, too intimidated to maintain eye contact.

Damien showed no reaction to their discomfort. His attention shifted elsewhere, his expression remaining impassive.

This was the man Camille had loved with reckless abandon. Even now, after all this time, she couldn't escape the hold he had on her.

Given how Damien had treated his own niece for years, it was impossible for Owen not to resent him.

But what could he do?

The Hartwell family was powerless against Damien.

As the host, Owen had no choice but to extend basic courtesies. He stood, raising his glass. "We didn't expect Mr. Harrington to join us tonight. Please forgive any shortcomings in our hospitality."

Damien mirrored the gesture, clinking his glass against Owen's. "You're too kind, Mr. Hartwell."

He deliberately addressed him formally, not as Uncle Owen.

The pointed choice of words didn't go unnoticed. Damien had no intention of acknowledging the Hartwells as family.

Camille had known this truth for years. Now, she neither wanted nor needed his acceptance.

She knew he'd only come because of Helena.

Her voice turned icy. "We appreciate Grandmother's kindness. If you have other engagements, don't let us keep you."

His presence was making everyone uncomfortable.

Damien replied smoothly, "I'm in no hurry."

Camille frowned, uncertain of his intentions.

Instead of addressing her, Damien turned to Graham. "Our company has been developing new stealth technology capable of evading all known radar systems. Mr. Bellamy, would this interest you?"

"All radar systems?" Graham's expression sharpened with professional curiosity. "Please continue."

Damien launched into technical details without hesitation, discussing proprietary information openly.

Camille hadn't expected Damien to engage her mentor like this. Yet as she listened, she recognized his deep understanding of AI applications.

If Graham found the topic compelling, how could Camille and Gabriel remain indifferent?

What began as polite attention soon became complete absorption. They leaned forward, forgetting their meals entirely.

Owen considered reminding them to eat, but seeing their rapt attention, he held his tongue.

Before tonight, no one present had known Damien well. His presence should have created tension.

Yet somehow, he'd effortlessly taken control of the conversation.

Of course, tonight's focus remained Marianne.

Damien knew better than to overshadow the occasion.

After several minutes of discussion, he concluded, "If you'd like to explore this further, Mr. Bellamy, perhaps we could schedule a proper meeting?"

The offer hung in the air between them.