Chapter 284

Everett recounted to Felix what he had witnessed earlier.

Felix texted back: Camille and her grandmother made quite an impression on my father and grandfather. Maybe that's why.

From Everett's perspective, Hugh had shown unusual interest in Camille, treating her with distinct attention. No matter how favorable the impression, they had only met once. It seemed implausible.

Still, Everett dismissed it after hearing Felix's explanation.

The forecast warned of afternoon rain turning to snow. Before Camille finished lunch, heavy rain had already begun pelting the windows.

After the meal, Hugh and other officials gathered with Camille and corporate representatives for deeper discussions—reviewing last year's production and this year's expansion plans.

Later, Hugh publicly thanked the companies for boosting the city's economy, concluding the business forum.

As the event ended, Damien and Camille prepared to leave after exchanging handshakes with the officials.

When Camille shook Hugh's hand, he said, "It's freezing today. The roads are already icing over. Drive carefully."

"I will. Thank you, Mr. Rhodes," she replied.

She, Damien, and the other executives walked together toward the parking lot.

Damien stayed close, murmuring, "Those heels aren't safe on this terrain. Watch your step."

His words carried clearly, drawing glances from nearby businessmen. Camille had no choice but to respond politely, "I appreciate the concern, Mr. Harrington. I'll be careful."

The moment reminded her of last year's tech expo, where she had slipped at a dinner. Back then, he'd been so wary of rumors that he hadn't even offered a hand.

Now, his behavior was entirely different. He spoke openly, his tone almost intimate, and initiated conversation despite being mid-discussion with others.

Every executive nearby heard him—including Everett.

Some remembered the expo incident, where they'd assumed Camille had staged her fall to seduce Damien.

NovaSight Labs's sudden rise had thrust Camille into the spotlight, and rumors about her and Gabriel had spread.

But now, Damien's demeanor contradicted past assumptions.

Was he simply being professional, given their companies' collaboration? Yet the casual use of her first name suggested otherwise.

Everett hadn't attended the expo and knew nothing of the alleged seduction attempt.

All he saw was Damien approaching Camille earlier. He'd doubted his own eyes—until now.

The way Damien spoke left no room for misinterpretation.

Everett's expression darkened as he watched them.

Camille had brought an umbrella, anticipating rain, but the wind sliced through the air like blades.

She'd expected slush, not black ice. The steps outside were treacherously slick, forcing her to tread carefully.

The others kept their distance, but Damien lingered beside her, drawing knowing smirks from associates.

Everett halted, about to speak—when Camille's foot slipped.

She pitched forward, but Damien's arm shot out, catching her waist just in time.

Before she could react, he pulled her flush against him.