Chapter 176

Tristan Rutherford had indeed considered that possibility.

Damien Harrington took a sip of his tea. "Though I have full custody, the agreement explicitly states she can see Chloe whenever she wishes—no restrictions apply."

That surprised Tristan.

Just then, both children glanced their way, so they dropped the subject.

Damien abruptly changed topics. "I heard you’ve been in talks with NovaSight Labs recently?"

Tristan hesitated. "Yes." Then he countered, "What about you? Not interested?"

Damien shrugged. "Haven’t decided yet. There’s still time—no need to rush."

Tristan gave a noncommittal hum.

Camille Hartwell still hadn’t finished her thesis.

After working on it relentlessly for a day and a half, she met Elise Ellis for dinner Sunday evening. They wandered aimlessly for over two hours before heading home.

A quiet, productive, and entirely uninterrupted weekend slipped by just like that.

Monday arrived, and Camille returned to NovaSight Labs as usual.

From that day onward, those who had previously called Gabriel Ashcroft to discuss potential collaborations began showing up in person, proposals in hand.

Everett Mercer arrived on Thursday.

Coincidentally, Gabriel was away on a business trip that day.

When Camille got the news, she set aside her work and headed straight to the meeting room.

As the door opened, Everett rose to his feet. But when he saw only Camille enter, his expression faltered slightly.

Camille extended her hand politely. "Mr. Mercer, I’m Camille Hartwell. Gabriel is currently away on business."

"I’m handling all company matters in his absence. Anything you’d like to discuss can be directed to me—it’s the same."

Handling everything in his stead? In what capacity? As Gabriel’s girlfriend?

Everett wasn’t sure if she was telling the truth or simply asserting her influence over Gabriel.

Even if she was being honest, their proposal contained highly technical content and specialized jargon. Would she even understand it?

More absurdly, despite knowing this was a business discussion, she hadn’t even brought a technical expert with her—she’d come alone.

That said, Gabriel did seem to hold her in high regard.

With that in mind, Everett decided not to make a scene, even if he doubted her comprehension.

He shook her hand briefly. "Then I’ll have to trouble you, Ms. Hartwell."

He sat back down and slid a document across the table. "This is our company’s proposal. Please take a look."

Camille accepted it. "Of course. I’ll review it now."

Just as she opened the file, one of Gabriel’s secretaries knocked and entered, whispering in her ear, "Ms. Hartwell, there are visitors downstairs—Malcolm and Selene Lancaster. Should I have them wait in your office?"

"No need," Camille cut in softly. "Send them away."

"Understood."

Once the secretary left, Camille apologized to Everett before turning her full attention to the proposal.

As she read, she noted that while Everett had arrived later than others, his confidence was justified. His proposal was thorough, aligning almost perfectly with her requirements.

She appeared entirely focused, as if she genuinely grasped every detail.

If this was an act, Everett wouldn’t call her out. He wasn’t in a hurry, after all.

Over half an hour later, Camille set the document down. "Mr. Mercer, your proposal is highly compatible with our company’s needs. We’ll give it serious consideration."

Everett had no intention of discussing this further with Camille—he’d wait for Gabriel’s return.

But outwardly, he remained courteous. "Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to potential collaboration."