Chapter 198

Chloe naturally gravitated toward her father.

Freya observed the other parents watching their spouses participate in games with their children.

When things went well, they laughed and clapped enthusiastically. When things didn’t, they grew anxious, cheering louder.

It was obvious—these families were united.

But with Camille, something felt off.

Even as she smiled while playing with Chloe, there was a distance between her, Damien, and their daughter. As if she didn’t truly belong.

Then Freya remembered the last parent-teacher meeting. Chloe had been noticeably closer to that woman.

No wonder Camille didn’t fit in now.

What child wouldn’t pull away from a mother who had allowed their family to fracture?

Freya’s heart ached for her, but she didn’t know how to offer comfort.

Camille caught the sympathy in her gaze.

She knew Freya had pieced it together. So she just smiled.

The worst was already behind her.

She was only here today because Selene wasn’t available. That was why Damien and Chloe had asked her to come instead.

Yes, she was the outsider.

Just then, Damien and Chloe returned.

Chloe rushed over, eager to see the video Camille had recorded.

Camille sent it to both of them. "Check your tablet."

Chloe beamed. "Okay!"

After three rounds of games, the event finally ended.

Chloe had won two trophies. Clutching them, she begged Damien to take photos.

He obliged, snapping several shots.

Then Chloe turned to Camille. "Mom, take pictures of me and Dad!"

Camille nodded. "Of course."

At her daughter’s request, she took a few photos of them together.

After sending them to Chloe, Damien surprised her. "Let me take some of you two."

"Yes! Mom, come here!"

"Alright."

Damien took her phone and captured a few shots of her and Chloe.

When he handed it back, her phone rang.

Gabriel.

"I need to take this," she said.

Chloe chirped, "Okay, Mom!"

Damien simply nodded.

The call lasted ten minutes—work matters.

When she turned back, she noticed Damien and Chloe were on a video call with someone. She didn’t interrupt.

Instead, she focused on the files Gabriel had sent.

A moment later, Chloe waved her over. "Mom! Group photo time! Then lunch!"

Camille joined them, posing with the other families. Claire, their teacher, took individual family photos too.

With that, the event officially concluded.

As Camille prepared to leave, Damien retrieved his coat. Then he turned to her. "Where do you want to eat?"

Before she could answer, Chloe shot her hand up. "Barbecue! The place we went to last time!"

Damien pinched her cheek. "Too far. You have class this afternoon—we won’t make it."

Chloe pouted, then brightened. "Seafood?"

Damien didn’t answer immediately. Instead, he looked at Camille. "Your choice?"