Chapter 62

The business discussion had dragged on for hours, yet Gabriel Ashcroft hadn't secured a single concrete deal.

Damien Harrington casually picked up a linen napkin.

He dabbed his lips.

Then he turned to Gabriel with an amused smile. "It's true. I've been considering it. What's your take?"

Gabriel never missed a business opportunity.

"Having Mr. Harrington's interest is an honor for our company."

If Damien and Gabriel collaborated, Selene Lancaster would benefit greatly. Closer ties meant more chances to interact with Gabriel. And that would make it easier to sway him to her side.

With this thought, she shot a venomous glare at Camille Hartwell.

Camille, however, remained engrossed in conversation with Dr. Dorian Hartwell. Though she kept half an ear on the table dynamics, she wasn't particularly concerned.

If Gabriel genuinely wanted to work with Damien, she had no objections. Money was money, after all.

As dinner concluded, the group migrated to the lounge area for further discussions.

Damien's earlier mention of collaboration had been casual. Whether it would materialize remained uncertain.

Yet Emmett Maddox, another guest, seemed genuinely eager to partner with them. He'd already gathered his team to speak with Gabriel before dessert was cleared.

Camille joined them.

While technically proficient, negotiations were Gabriel's forte.

She sat quietly, interjecting only occasionally. Noticing Gabriel's empty glass, she picked it up. "I'll get you a refill."

Gabriel smiled. "Thanks."

Seeing Camille play the assistant role reinforced Selene and Rosalie Lancaster's belief that her position was merely menial.

Glass in hand, Camille turned away. As she passed Damien, someone abruptly bumped into her.

Caught off balance, she stumbled forward—straight into Damien's arms. The room froze.

To observers, it appeared accidental. But was it truly coincidence that she fell precisely into Damien's embrace?

Camille was undeniably striking—her figure graceful, her porcelain skin flawless.

While Selene was equally beautiful, many present privately conceded Camille had the edge.

For most men, such an encounter would stir something.

But Damien remained impassive.

He steadied her shoulders briefly before pushing her away, his expression unreadable.

Camille only recognized his distinctive cologne when she was already against his chest.

Regaining composure, she calmly straightened. "My apologies," she murmured before walking away.

To Selene and Rosalie, the message was clear—this had been deliberate.

Rosalie scoffed. "I told you she'd try something."

"Pathetic," Selene smirked. "His reaction says everything."

"Indeed," Rosalie chuckled. "His indifference is rather reassuring, isn't it?"

Selene lowered her head, smiling smugly.

Meanwhile, Malcolm Lancaster frowned.

He'd thought Camille unassuming. Now he realized she was full of tricks. Who would've guessed?