Chapter 225

Moments later, Selene Lancaster, Chloe Harrington, and Everett Mercer emerged from the restroom.

Chloe was at that wonderfully curious age where everything fascinated her. She darted from one shop window to another, chattering excitedly to Selene the entire time.

Selene responded with patient smiles, indulging the little girl’s endless questions.

Everett observed them quietly. He couldn’t help but notice how naturally Selene cared for Damien’s daughter. It made him realize just how much effort parenting required.

Back at the café, Everett’s gaze immediately sought out Damien.

The man sat comfortably at their table, sipping his coffee while flipping through a magazine. He looked completely at ease—like someone who had delegated all responsibilities without a second thought.

Everett hesitated.

Earlier, on their way to the restroom, he had mentioned meeting a friend here.

Once inside, Selene turned to him. "Has your friend arrived yet?"

Everett shook his head. "Not yet."

"Why don’t you join us for a while?" she offered.

"You two are on a date. I wouldn’t want to intrude."

Selene laughed lightly. "Damien won’t mind."

So Everett followed them to Damien’s table.

The first thing he noticed was the extravagant bouquet of red roses placed beside Damien’s seat.

No doubt they were for Selene. Perhaps Damien wasn’t as indifferent toward her as Everett had assumed.

"Daddy, we’re back!" Chloe chirped, immediately reclaiming her seat.

Damien acknowledged her with a hum before turning his attention to Selene—only then noticing Everett.

"Mr. Mercer?"

Everett nodded. "I ran into Ms. Lancaster at the entrance. When I saw you were here too, I thought I’d say hello."

After exchanging pleasantries, Everett observed their easy dynamic. He decided not to linger. "My friend should be here soon. I’ll leave you to your evening."

Damien didn’t press. "Next time, then."

Everett gave Selene one last glance before finding a nearby table.

The trio spoke in hushed tones, their conversation too quiet for him to overhear.

About twenty minutes later, Damien stood to leave. Before exiting, he approached Everett.

"Heading out already?" Everett asked.

"Yes," Damien replied simply. "Until next time."

As Damien walked away, Everett noticed Selene and Chloe remained. "You’re not leaving with him?"

Selene smiled. "He’s bringing the car around from the underground parking."

The café was street-side, while the parking garage was a short distance away. Having Damien retrieve the car was a thoughtful gesture.

Everett chuckled.

Selene tilted her head. "Did your friend ever arrive?"

"No," Everett admitted.

A knowing glint flickered in Selene’s eyes, but she didn’t call him out. "Will you keep waiting?"

"No."

After a brief pause, Selene’s phone buzzed. "That’s our cue," she said.

Everett nodded. "Safe travels."

As they said their goodbyes outside the café, Chloe suddenly released Selene’s hand and turned sharply.

"Chloe?"

The little girl was certain she’d spotted Camille Hartwell this time. But the crowd was too thick, and her small frame couldn’t see past the shifting bodies.

She tugged Selene’s sleeve. "Selene, I think I just saw—"

Selene gently interrupted. "Your father’s waiting. Let’s go."