Chapter 473

Declan’s sudden appearance didn’t seem confrontational.

He wasn’t there to interfere or stir up trouble intentionally.

His gaze settled on Camille, his tone casual and familiar.

“Having dinner with Mr. Rutherford?”

Camille responded with a simple, “Yes.”

“You’ll be returning to the office later, I assume?”

“I have matters to attend to,” she confirmed.

Declan gave a slight nod.

“Alright.”

“I’ll find you at the office then.”

Without another word, he turned and walked away.

Tristan understood the subtle provocation in Declan’s demeanor.

It was a clear message: Tristan had to work hard for Camille’s attention, while Declan moved freely in her world.

Declan didn’t need tricks to be near her.

He was already part of her daily life.

Yet, Tristan felt no anger or anxiety.

He remained calm and observant.

At this point, Camille showed no romantic interest in either of them.

They were essentially in the same position—neither ahead of the other.

If anything, Tristan wished she would show some emotion.

Any hint of feeling, whether for him or Declan, would be better than this neutrality.

At least it would mean she cared.

He had already informed Camille that Iris was now under her grandmother’s care.

It had been some time since they last heard about her.

Once they were seated in the restaurant’s private room, Camille finally asked, “How is Iris doing?”

Tristan’s heart warmed at her concern.

“She’s doing well,” he replied gently.

“She called a few days ago and said she misses you.”

“She wants to come back and visit.”

Camille smiled softly.

“I’d like that.”

After a brief pause, Tristan added, “I also heard Chloe’s training has been going exceptionally well.”

“She’s likely to achieve something significant in the upcoming competition.”

At the mention of Chloe, Camille’s expression shifted slightly.

She lowered her gaze, offering a quiet hum in response.

Before she could say more, the door to the private room swung open abruptly.

“Tristan!”

The voice was unmistakable.

Tristan’s expression darkened instantly.

Camille, however, remained perfectly composed.

Giselle stood frozen at the doorway, her eyes widening in shock when she noticed Camille.

“What are you doing here?” she blurted out.

Camille ignored her, maintaining her calm demeanor.

Tristan’s voice was cold and sharp.

“What are you doing here, Giselle?”

Though he had always been distant, this level of iciness was new.

Giselle was taken aback, rendered speechless by his tone.

“I—I just…” she stammered, her confidence crumbling.

“Giselle, mind your manners,” interjected Nora and Rosalie as they approached.

They, too, were surprised to see Camille, but they knew NovaSight Labs and Tristan maintained a strong professional relationship.

A business dinner wasn’t entirely unexpected.

Nora offered a polite smile.

“Our apologies, Tristan.”

“Giselle shouldn’t have interrupted your meal.”

As elders, Tristan afforded them basic respect.

“It’s alright,” he said curtly.

But toward Giselle, he showed no leniency.

“Ms. Lancaster,” he stated firmly, “we are not acquainted well enough for such interruptions.”

“I expect this won’t happen again.”

“Is that clear?”

His words were a direct and public rejection.

Giselle had genuine feelings for Tristan.

Hearing his firm dismissal, especially in front of Camille, brought tears to her eyes.

“I—I didn’t mean to…” she choked out, her voice trembling.

But Tristan’s resolve didn’t waver.

He decided to make himself perfectly clear.

“If I’m not mistaken, Ms. Lancaster, you seem to have certain… expectations regarding me.”

“Let me be unequivocal: there is no possibility of a relationship between us.”

“I expect you to respect that boundary moving forward.”