Chapter 139

Camille didn't glance up from her intense discussion with the Lucerne tech team.

Cedric flashed a knowing smile. "Mr. Ashcroft, are you acquainted with Mr. Mercer and Mr. Valen?"

Gabriel gave a curt nod. "We've met."

As scions of Lucerne's elite families, their paths had crossed before.

Though Gabriel had chosen a different professional trajectory, making their relationship merely cordial.

After exchanging brief pleasantries with Gabriel, Everett and Elliot followed Cedric to another section of the venue.

Selene remained behind with Gabriel.

She'd noticed Camille immediately, but after one dismissive glance, refocused her attention on Gabriel.

"Mr. Ashcroft, did you just arrive?" she inquired smoothly.

Gabriel's technical prowess and status as Graham Bellamy's protégé made him valuable.

Despite sensing his coolness toward her - likely due to Camille's influence - Selene maintained her charm.

Once she secured Graham as her mentor too, they'd be working closely together.

"I've been here thirty minutes," Gabriel answered distractedly, scribbling notes. "You seem well-settled, Ms. Lancaster."

Selene smiled. "I arrived at Lucerne Tech this morning. After a busy day, I needed refreshments upstairs."

The unspoken implication being Damien Harrington's private office.

Gabriel's pen stilled. His tone turned glacial. "Is Mr. Harrington here?"

"No, he's at Harrington Group."

Meaning she had unrestricted access to his workspace - no secrets between them.

Gabriel's noncommittal "hmm" ended the conversation. He strode toward Camille, notebook extended.

Camille glanced at his notes, nodded understanding, then resumed work.

Selene interjected, "What technical issues are you discussing? Perhaps I could assist."

"This is specialized work, Ms. Lancaster," Gabriel replied coolly. "It wouldn't be appropriate."

As Selene opened her mouth to protest, Camille approached with data reports.

Selene's expression frosted over instantly.

Camille ignored her initially, but meeting Selene's icy glare, returned an equally chilling stare.