Chapter 261

Tristan Rutherford remarked, "Everyone here seems to hold Selene in high regard."

His guide smiled warmly. "Naturally. Ms. Lancaster is exceptionally talented. The entire team admires her work."

He didn't mention the unspoken truth - that Selene's connection to Damien Harrington brought substantial benefits to their department.

Hearing praise for his sister, Tristan's chest swelled with pride. Yet he had no intention of interrupting her during work hours.

"Show me around the rest of the company," he requested instead.

"Of course."

As they exited, they nearly collided with Tristan Rutherford arriving at the same moment.

The guide immediately straightened. "Mr. Rutherford."

Tristan gave a curt nod, his sharp gaze assessing the younger man's student-like appearance. Recognition flickered but he remained silent.

"This is Ms. Lancaster's brother, Tristan Lancaster," the guide supplied.

Though they'd never met, Tristan recognized the name instantly. "You must be Tristan," he ventured.

A single nod. "Hello."

Tristan returned the greeting with equal brevity.

Before he could continue, Tristan's attention snapped toward Camille Hartwell working nearby. "I'll be over there," he announced abruptly.

Without awaiting response, he strode toward Camille with purposeful steps.

Tristan Lancaster blinked in surprise.

Weren't Damien's closest friends supposed to be on good terms with Selene? Tristan's indifference seemed... unexpected.

Not that Tristan Rutherford cared about first impressions.

"Ms. Hartwell," he greeted when reaching her workstation.

Camille turned, her expression freezing momentarily before smoothing into professionalism. "Mr. Rutherford."

Nearly half a month had passed since their last encounter - both consumed by year-end deadlines. Two days after their initial conversation, Tristan had been abruptly summoned for confidential government meetings.

Not that he'd mention that now.

"Will you be attending our company banquet this weekend?" he inquired.

Camille nodded. "Yes."

Ever since Tristan's unexpected intervention regarding her uncle's situation, she'd noticed his markedly improved demeanor toward her.

Regardless of motives, he'd extended help when needed.

Their recent professional collaborations had proceeded seamlessly. When the personal invitation arrived, refusing would have been both unprofessional and ungrateful.

His lips curved slightly at her confirmation. "I appreciate that."

"You're too kind," she deflected politely.

Sensing her reluctance for extended conversation, Tristan didn't press. "Don't let me interrupt your work."

Camille returned to her discussion with Wesley Caldwell and the development team without further comment.

Yet Tristan remained, observing their technical exchange with quiet intensity, occasionally interjecting pointed questions.

Though neither Tristan nor Arlo Calloway held operational roles at Vertex Dynamics, as shareholders they'd be present for the impending annual meeting.

That very purpose had brought Tristan here today.

Meanwhile, Selene concluded her meeting and spotted her brother. "Finished touring?"

Tristan nodded. "Saw everything worth seeing."

At that moment, Arlo Calloway arrived.

"Selene!" He greeted cheerfully before noticing her companion. "And this must be the famous younger brother? Impressive - the Lancaster genes don't disappoint."

Selene chuckled, about to make introductions when Tristan interjected. "You're Arlo, right?"

Arlo's eyebrows shot up. "Spot on. Sharp eye."

Selene opened her mouth again, but Tristan scratched his head sheepishly. "Actually, I just met Tristan earlier."

"Tristan's here?" Selene's gaze sharpened.

Tristan gestured toward Camille's workstation. "Over there."

Both Selene and Arlo turned to observe Tristan Rutherford engaged in what appeared to be an unusually amicable discussion with Camille Hartwell.