Chapter 166

Helena Harrington had also observed Camille Hartwell's growing distance toward Damien Harrington.

She sighed deeply, shooting Damien a reproachful look. This is entirely your fault!

Camille had pursued him relentlessly for so long. How could he remain unresponsive? Was it any wonder she'd eventually withdraw?

Damien merely offered a faint smile, remaining silent.

Camille kept her own silence, continuing her meal without reaction even after hearing this conversation.

Before dinner concluded, Damien's phone rang. He glanced at the screen, excused himself, and stepped away to answer.

His return came swiftly.

After the meal, he informed Helena, "I have urgent matters to attend to. I'll take my leave now."

Chloe Harrington, sharp as ever, guessed the call likely came from Selene Lancaster. Eager to visit the hospital herself, she chimed in, "Daddy, I want to come too."

"Very well."

Helena added, "Take Camille along. Tomorrow's Saturday - perfect for some family time."

Only then did Camille speak. "Grandmother, I have prior arrangements with a friend tomorrow."

Helena hesitated. "I see."

Chloe had been anxious about Camille joining them. Hearing this refusal, relief washed over her. As they entered the car, she called out, "Goodbye, Mother."

Camille replied evenly, "Goodbye."

The car door shut. Moments later, Damien's vehicle disappeared down the driveway.

Camille entered her own car. Once clear of Harrington Manor, she placed a call to Gabriel Ashcroft while driving.

She wasted no words when he answered. "I'm divorcing Damien. He's presented me with an agreement including asset division. I need a lawyer to scrutinize it for loopholes."

Gabriel, mid-bite during dinner, nearly choked.

Ecstatic, he responded immediately, "I'll secure you the best legal counsel at once!"

Camille chuckled. "Excellent." Ending the call, she continued homeward.

Meanwhile at the hospital, Chloe and Damien remained in Selene's room, engaged in conversation.

Arlo Calloway had excused himself to the hallway. He dialed Tristan Rutherford. "Damien's proceeding with the divorce."

Tristan, currently traveling, froze mid-step. "What?"

After a beat, he demanded, "You're certain?"

"Absolutely. I witnessed it myself. No room for doubt." Arlo added, "And Damien isn't granting her custody of Chloe either."

Tristan's grip on his phone turned white-knuckled.

Arlo continued, "But—" Before he could finish, Tristan interrupted.

"I have urgent matters. Need to make a call." He disconnected without waiting for response.

"What's so pressing?" Arlo muttered to himself.

Tristan had already located Camille's contact. He hesitated briefly before placing the call.

Camille had just arrived home when his call came through. Answering casually, she inquired, "Mr. Rutherford, what can I do for you?"

"You—" He wanted to ask about her and Damien, but recognized his position made such inquiries inappropriate.

Even a simple "Are you alright?" felt beyond his right to ask.

Assuming he called regarding Iris Rutherford, Camille preempted him. "If this concerns meeting Iris, I'm unavailable tomorrow. Perhaps the following day or next week would work?"