Chapter 313

Arlo's words hung in the air. "Or perhaps they're simply unaware of Camille's past?"

Many had assumed there was something romantic between Camille and Gabriel.

Ever since discovering Camille was also Graham's student, Tristan had observed their interactions closely. He found no trace of romantic involvement between them.

He couldn't tell if Naomi genuinely wanted them together or if there were ulterior motives behind her words.

But one thing was certain - given Camille's accomplishments, she was worthy of anyone, regardless of her past.

"They likely know," Tristan replied.

Arlo's eyes widened. "Then why would they—"

He stopped mid-sentence, realization dawning. "Wait... so Camille has actually fallen for Gabriel? She no longer loves Damien?"

Before Tristan could respond, Arlo connected the dots.

"No wonder she remained so composed during the divorce proceedings. She didn't even fight for Chloe's custody. I thought she was scheming to win Damien back, but she already had Gabriel lined up."

"Having Chloe would have complicated marrying into the Ashcroft family."

Tristan remained silent.

Arlo was genuinely shocked the Ashcroft family would accept Camille under these circumstances.

When Damien approached moments later, Arlo couldn't resist sharing. "Tristan and I overheard Gabriel's mother speaking with guests earlier. From her tone, she seems supportive of Camille marrying Gabriel."

"I suspect the wedding will happen shortly after your divorce is finalized."

Damien arched an eyebrow, amused. "Is that so?"

"That's exactly how Naomi sounded," Arlo insisted. "Ask Tristan if you don't believe me."

Damien turned to Tristan.

After a brief hesitation, Tristan nodded.

Naomi's words had indeed suggested as much.

Damien chuckled but said nothing further.

Just then, Owen arrived, fashionably late among the guests.

Spotting him, Damien gave Tristan's shoulder a pat before moving to greet the older man. "Mr. Rutherford."

Owen ignored him completely. Handing his gift to Helena, he exchanged pleasantries before turning to Chloe with a warm smile. "Chloe, come give me a hug."

The girl obeyed immediately.

Owen's eyes crinkled affectionately. "Such a sweet girl."

Chloe peered up at him. "Mr. Rutherford, didn't Mom come with you?"

She'd already asked Damien about Camille earlier. He'd told her Camille was too busy to attend.

But seeing Owen here reminded her how close he was with her mother. His presence without Camille made her question again.

The guests buzzed with curiosity about the identity of Chloe's mysterious mother.

At her question, many eyes turned - including Everett's - eager for clues about this enigmatic woman.

Owen smiled kindly. "No, your mother had work commitments."

Chloe sighed. "Oh, okay."

Her manner of addressing Owen confirmed her mother wasn't part of the Rutherford family.

Yet this exchange left guests no wiser about Damien's ex-wife's identity.

To those unaware of the full story - including Everett - Owen's response suggested Damien and Chloe's mother were already divorced.

They assumed the separation had been kept from the child.