Chapter 376

The moment the Lucerne elite recognized Marianne Hartwell, they noticed the Lancasters deliberately avoiding any mention of her presence.

It became painfully obvious the Lancaster family wanted to bury the past between the Hartwells and Lancasters.

Though several guests recognized Marianne, not a single one dared approach her.

Their attention quickly shifted to Tristan and Selene Lancaster instead.

One bold guest even complimented Helena Lancaster right in front of Camille and Marianne, "Madam Lancaster, your grandchildren are exceptional - both in appearance and bearing. You're truly blessed."

Indeed, Tristan and Selene were the pride of both Helena and the entire Lancaster clan.

Helena didn't spare Camille another glance.

At the compliment, she gazed adoringly at Tristan and Selene with a pleased smile. "You flatter them."

Whatever she said next, Camille didn't hear. She and her family had already moved through the crowd and departed.

As for Damien, after that initial glimpse, Camille hadn't looked his way again.

Everett and Arlo hadn't expected to encounter Camille here either, let alone witness the awkward moment she'd been mistaken for Selene.

They silently watched her leave.

Just then, Tristan's assistant arrived with an ornate gift box for Helena.

Learning Tristan couldn't attend the birthday banquet personally disappointed both the Lancasters and their relatives.

The Lancaster women especially - more disappointed than the men, and visibly anxious.

After Giselle's recent scandal, both Sabrina and Nora had pinned their hopes on a marriage alliance with Tristan to salvage their reputation.

But now, Tristan hadn't even bothered to show up.

Arlo seemed genuinely surprised by Tristan's absence. He hadn't heard of any prior engagements.

Even Selene hadn't anticipated Tristan skipping such an important event.

Her brow furrowed unconsciously.

Damien showed no reaction whatsoever.

Meanwhile, Camille's family reached the banquet hall. Shortly after settling in, her phone rang.

Chloe's name flashed on the screen.

Camille hesitated to answer, but Marianne - seeing the caller ID and remembering how Damien and Selene had appeared without Chloe - nudged her to pick up.

Feeling sorry for the girl left behind, Marianne insisted.

Camille had reached the same conclusion.

Not wanting to ignore Chloe's call in front of Marianne, she excused herself to a quiet corner.

Chloe sounded thrilled Camille answered. "Mom! Sunday is Mother's Day! I got you a present! Can we meet then?"

Mother's Day. The significance wasn't lost on Camille.

After a brief pause, she replied softly, "Alright." Then asked, "Are you home alone right now?"

Chloe answered cheerfully, "Yes! Dad isn't back yet."

Camille remained silent.

Technically, Chloe was Rosalie Lancaster's great-granddaughter.

Selene claimed to adore Chloe, yet hadn't brought her to this family celebration.

Was this what genuine love looked like?

The truth seemed so obvious - couldn't Damien see it?

But then, blinded by his feelings for Selene, he'd probably believe any flimsy excuse she offered.