Chapter 457

After wrapping up her tasks at NovaSight Labs headquarters, Camille Hartwell finally checked her phone upon arriving home.

The screen illuminated with Damien Harrington's belated response - a single word "Got it" sent over an hour after she'd left for work.

For fifteen days since their canceled meeting, that solitary message remained his only communication.

Meanwhile, Chloe Harrington's calls had flooded her phone five times in the past week alone.

Camille typed a quick update: "Finished with work. Available Monday."

The message bubble hovered unanswered.

She set her phone aside, deciding not to wait.

As for Chloe's missed calls, nothing seemed urgent enough to warrant an immediate callback.

Nearly two weeks had passed since her last hospital visit.

After freshening up and breakfast, Camille accompanied her family to see Audrey Hartwell.

Her mother's condition showed gradual improvement.

"Thank you, Dr. Harrington," Camille expressed her gratitude.

Helena Harrington gave a reassuring pat.

"No thanks necessary - it's my duty."

Their visit concluded, Camille and Marianne Hartwell descended via elevator.

The sliding doors revealed an unexpected trio: Nora Lancaster, Selene Lancaster, and Giselle.

Both Hartwell women paused momentarily before composing themselves and proceeding forward.

The Lancaster women's expressions darkened noticeably.

Since Damien initiated divorce proceedings, Camille had reportedly cooperated fully.

Their final appointment had been postponed twice due to his business commitments.

They'd expected to conclude matters this coming Monday during Damien's availability.

Yet Camille had suddenly become unreachable - skipping work and ignoring calls.

To them, this clearly signaled deliberate avoidance, an attempt to stall past the mandatory thirty-day waiting period.

Giselle's glare burned with undisguised hostility.

Nora's icy stare matched her niece's intensity.

Camille met their gazes with equal frost before looking away.

The Lancaster women stiffened at her audacity.

Giselle's temper flared.

"You—"

"Giselle."

Selene's calm interjection carried unspoken warning.

Public confrontations served no one's interests, especially with the divorce still pending.

Giselle clenched her fists, consoling herself with the inevitable outcome.

Once Damien wrapped up his business, no amount of stalling would prevent their separation.

Her frustration resurged remembering Damien had taken Chloe abroad for an extended business trip, planning additional vacation days.

"Selene," she complained, "can't you ask Damien to return sooner? He can vacation with that girl after the divorce!"

Selene remained unperturbed.

"Unnecessary. Damien handles his affairs competently."

Meanwhile, as Camille settled into her car, her phone finally vibrated with Damien's response: "Understood. Returning tomorrow."