Chapter 149

Camille didn't even receive a glance from Selene. The apology clearly wasn't meant for her.

Everett was too preoccupied to notice Camille's presence. "Just a few minutes delay," he dismissed casually.

"How gracious of you, Mr. Mercer," Gabriel rose abruptly, his voice icy. "Now that we're all present, let's not waste any more time. Begin."

Damien maintained his diplomatic tone. "Our apologies, Mr. Ashcroft. Please proceed."

Gabriel gave a cold snort before grabbing Camille's hand and storming out first.

Damien noticed Gabriel's possessive grip but quickly averted his gaze, his expression carefully neutral.

Tristan, however, kept staring at the couple with undisguised curiosity.

The spotlight remained firmly on Damien and Selene throughout the event.

At the test track, staff members addressed them respectfully: "Mr. Harrington, Ms. Lancaster, all systems are ready."

Their deferential manner left no doubt - they considered Selene the future Mrs. Harrington.

"Initiate the test," Damien commanded.

"Yes, sir."

The monitors displayed real-time driving data clearly.

After the test driver completed the circuit, staff invited Damien and Selene for a firsthand experience.

Damien agreed immediately. They entered the vehicle together.

Onscreen, their animated conversation and lingering gazes spoke volumes.

Camille watched the feed with perfect composure.

Gabriel looked ready to vomit.

Arlo expressed interest in trying the vehicle, but when Giselle approached him, Tristan cut in sharply. "You go ahead. I'll pass."

Giselle's words died in her throat.

Wesley turned to Gabriel and Camille. "Mr. Ashcroft, Ms. Hartwell, would you care to test the vehicle?"

As the actual technical experts present, they'd originally planned to evaluate the system. But after today's events, their enthusiasm had evaporated.

Gabriel scoffed. "Hard pass."

Isabetha leaned close, whispering technical specifications about the engine. "Are you certain you don't want to try?" she murmured.

Gabriel's eyes narrowed. "How do you know these details?"

Camille tapped her temple. "Glanced at their data earlier. Photographic memory has its perks."

Gabriel's mood visibly lifted. "Recreate it with me later."

"Deal." She pulled him into the vehicle.

Thirty minutes later, testing concluded.

Damien announced, "Thank you for your efforts today. Shall we dine together?"

"Splendid idea," Everett agreed.

Gabriel's voice dripped with sarcasm. "Regrettably, we're occupied. Enjoy your meal." He turned sharply. "Wesley, see us out."

Damien nodded. "Another time then."

Wesley hurried to comply. "Of course, sir."

Gabriel's mocking smirk said everything his words didn't. He exited with Camille's hand firmly in his.

Elliot whispered to Everett, "Why does Gabriel seem to despise Damien and his entourage?"

Everett had noticed the animosity since their first encounter here.

He'd initially dismissed it as imagination. Now he wasn't so sure.