Chapter 267

Gabriel had visited the Hartwell residence previously, so he delivered the fireworks without delay.

As for Tristan, to prevent any complications, Camille provided him with an address close to the Hartwell home instead.

At approximately 2:00 pm, Camille drove to the designated meeting location.

During their phone conversation, Tristan mentioned he'd send someone to deliver the fireworks. But when she parked and stepped out, Camille was taken aback to find Tristan waiting in person.

"You made it," Tristan said.

"Mm-hmm."

"Pop the trunk."

After Camille complied, Tristan loaded not just the fireworks but several gift boxes as well.

Seeing the additional packages, Camille protested, "These really aren't necessary—"

"Iris insisted I bring them," Tristan explained.

She then placed a handmade friendship bracelet and some afternoon purchases into Tristan's vehicle. "These are for Iris."

Tristan's lips curved. "Much appreciated."

Among her gifts, his attention caught on a plush rabbit. He lifted it questioningly. "And this?"

"It's a light-up toy wand," Camille clarified. "I bought two—a bear and a rabbit. Children usually love them."

Tristan inspected them. Both plush wands boasted festive, adorable designs.

He nodded approvingly. "Iris will adore them. Thanks."

"Just a simple gift exchange—no thanks needed."

After replacing the wand, Tristan gestured toward a nearby café. "Care to grab a coffee?"

Camille shook her head. "Can't stay. I've got errands to run."

Marianne was being discharged from the hospital that evening. She needed to accompany her grandmother there.

Tristan paused. "Understood."

With minimal further conversation, Camille entered her car and departed.

Shortly after arriving home, she and Marianne collected their prepared gifts for Helena and headed to the hospital. They'd already notified Helena in advance.

Upon arrival, only Helena and her caretaker, Marianne Maddox, occupied the hospital room.

Whether to avoid awkwardness or for other reasons, Chloe was conspicuously absent.

Marianne Hartwell's face fell momentarily before schooling her expression.

Helena noticed immediately.

She was also aware of Camille and Damien's impending divorce.

Since New Year's Day—when Marcus returned without Camille—Helena had realized that even before the official divorce, Camille was already severing ties with the Harrington family. She'd guessed Camille wouldn't be celebrating Lumina Festival at Harrington Manor this year.

Regarding Chloe's custody, she'd broached the subject with Damien days prior. But he remained unmovable.

When she'd asked where Chloe would spend Lumina Festival, he'd said it was her choice.

However, Chloe had been traveling abroad and was only returning tonight, leaving Helena no opportunity to ask.

Seeing her old friend's disappointment, Helena's guilt intensified.

The truth was, Chloe had grown increasingly attached to Damien. Without Chloe's explicit consent, Helena couldn't promise Marianne or Camille anything.

Though silent, both Marianne and Camille understood her position.

So they avoided mentioning Chloe, sticking to lighter topics and inquiring about Helena's recovery. Within half an hour, discharge time arrived.

Not wanting to overstay, Camille and Marianne prepared to leave.

Helena had gifts prepared as well, which her staff brought down to the lobby.

Shortly after their departure, Damien arrived.

Helena knew he'd timed his visit to avoid crossing paths with Camille.

The divorce was inevitable—she couldn't stop it.

Watching Damien skillfully peel an apple at her bedside, Helena pressed her lips together. "Damien, Chloe is Camille's biological daughter. Can't you at least grant her custody?"

Damien continued peeling with practiced ease. "Chloe is my daughter too."

Helena's temper flared. "You barely acknowledged her these past years, and now you fight for custody?"

He arranged the sliced apple neatly on a plate. "I've changed."

Helena turned away, refusing the offering.

Damien set the plate down. "Grandmother, this is between us. Please don't interfere."

After completing discharge formalities, he first escorted Helena back to Harrington Manor. Later, he'd collect Chloe from the airport himself.