Chapter 52

The exhibition hall was already bustling with activity by the time Camille Hartwell, Gabriel Ashcroft, and their group had their tickets verified.

Massive drones hovered near the ceiling while sleek flying cars occupied center stage. Humanoid robots interacted with visitors along the perimeter.

Each exhibit showcased cutting-edge technology. Camille's breath caught at the dazzling display of innovation surrounding them.

Gabriel's reputation preceded him. Within minutes, industry leaders began approaching to exchange greetings.

He made a point of introducing Camille to several key contacts.

While smiling at a semiconductor CEO, Camille's gaze drifted toward the entrance. Her eyes locked unexpectedly with Selene Lancaster's as she entered with her entourage.

Selene froze mid-step. Seeing Camille here was unexpected.

This exhibition catered exclusively to tech elite. Each invitation represented significant prestige.

As a major shareholder of Vertex Dynamics, Gabriel bringing Camille—a mere undergraduate—into the company had raised eyebrows among staff.

But granting her this coveted ticket? That would surely cause resentment among Vertex Dynamics's senior engineers.

Gabriel had studied under Graham Bellamy. Though he'd shifted focus to business, his AI expertise remained formidable.

He'd personally overseen his company's product development for years.

His technical prowess was undisputed. With Nexa as their core intellectual property, Vertex Dynamics had flourished under his leadership.

Felix Valen had once praised Gabriel as an extraordinary visionary.

Selene had begun questioning that assessment when he'd refused to hire her because of Camille.

Now he was giving this valuable exhibition pass to an outsider?

It made no logical sense.

Selene's expression darkened as these thoughts churned.

Malcolm and Rosalie Lancaster also spotted Camille. Their frowns mirrored Selene's surprise at her presence.

Camille offered them the briefest nod before turning away.

Malcolm noticed her conversing intimately with a tall, distinguished man. "That man—Selene, do you recognize him?"

"That's Gabriel Ashcroft."

"Gabriel Ashcroft?" Malcolm's eyebrows shot up.

He knew Camille had left Harrington Group for Vertex Dynamics. But he'd assumed she held some junior position.

He hadn't expected Gabriel to show her such favor.

Before Selene could respond, an older gentleman approached.

"Ms. Lancaster, Mr. Lancaster, you made it."

"Mr. Dunmore." Selene and Malcolm greeted the businessman.

Originally, they'd only secured two tickets. But after last night's charity event revealed Selene's connection to Damien Harrington, their social circle had taken notice.

Eager to curry favor with Damien, Hugh Dunmore had arranged an extra ticket upon learning the Lancasters needed one.

News of Selene's ties to Damien had spread quickly after the gala.

Hugh had barely exchanged pleasantries before others began approaching. Soon a crowd formed around the Lancasters, drawing curious glances.

Meanwhile, Gideon Valen, who'd been speaking with Camille's group, glanced over and remarked, "The Lancasters are making quite the spectacle. You've heard about their recent... developments?"

"Ms. Lancaster's connection to Damien Harrington has everyone scrambling to get close."

His tone dripped with disdain.

Gabriel was well aware of the charity event drama involving Selene.