Chapter 310

The afternoon sunlight streamed through the windows of the Rutherford estate as Camille Hartwell sipped her coffee across the chessboard from Owen Rutherford.

Chloe Harrington kept glancing at the clock, clearly eager to return to the Harrington residence with Camille later. During a quiet moment, Camille texted Damien Harrington, requesting he arrange for Chloe's transportation home that evening.

Damien left the message unanswered. She assumed he hadn't seen it yet. However, right after dinner - though Damien himself didn't appear - the car he'd sent for Chloe arrived punctually at the Rutherford mansion.

Once Chloe departed, Camille drove away as well.

Helena Harrington's birthday celebration loomed the following week. Camille had already resolved not to attend.

After careful consideration, Marianne Hartwell agreed their absence would be best. With their decision made, Camille and Marianne called Helena that evening.

Helena answered while still finishing dinner. Her injured leg had nearly healed, allowing normal movement again.

She glanced at Damien before excusing herself from the dining room, warmth coloring her voice. "Camille, have you eaten yet?"

"We have," Camille replied, having put the call on speaker. After exchanging pleasantries with Helena, she broached the subject. "Grandmother, I'm sorry. Granny and I won't be able to attend your birthday celebration in person."

Helena had anticipated this. Though disappointed, she understood. Her soft chuckle carried through the phone. "That's quite alright, dear. Just promise me this won't create distance between us. Call me often, yes? And remember - if you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask. No formalities between family."

"I understand. Thank you, Grandmother," Camille responded.

Their conversation continued briefly before ending.

With Helena's birthday approaching, Lydia Harrington had returned to the Harrington estate the previous day.

Hugo Harrington was also present.

Earlier, Lydia had inquired about Damien and Camille's situation, revealing to Hugo that their divorce remained in process, not yet finalized.

Given Camille's closeness to Helena and the pending divorce status - coupled with this being Helena's first major birthday celebration in years - Camille's attendance seemed almost expected.

Watching Helena leave the dining room, Hugo couldn't resist asking, "Damien, is Camille coming to Grandmother's birthday?"

Chloe had already finished eating and left the dining area.

Damien continued eating methodically. "Ask Grandmother later," he replied.

Hugo paused. Did Damien not know? Or had Camille just called about this? If she'd planned to attend, a special call wouldn't be necessary.

Meaning she likely never intended to come.

Hugo genuinely liked Camille. He studied Damien, fighting the urge to ask if he was absolutely certain about the divorce.

But Helena, Lydia, and Marcus never interfered in Damien's affairs. Hugo knew he lacked standing to question the decision either.

When Helena returned, Hugo asked gently, "Grandmother, what did Camille say?"

Helena's gaze flicked to Damien, who continued eating with perfect composure, his expression unchanged at Camille's name. "She apologized and said she wouldn't be attending the celebration," Helena replied.

Damien showed no reaction to the unspoken implications. He silently served Helena some food, only for her to move her bowl away, leaving his utensils suspended mid-air.