Chapter 281

The dinner was in full swing when Arlo suddenly remembered something. He turned to Selene with a knowing smile. "Speaking of opportunities, NovaSight Labs is actively expanding their team. Have you considered reapplying?"

Though she'd been traveling abroad recently, Selene had kept tabs on NovaSight Labs's developments. The cutting-edge technology they offered was undeniably tempting—working there would undoubtedly elevate her career.

Yet hesitation lingered.

Arlo, perceptive as always, guessed her concern. "Ran into an old contact yesterday," he remarked casually. "Apparently, Gabriel isn't just recruiting technical experts. He's also scouting for experienced management personnel."

The implication was clear.

With NovaSight Labs restructuring, key positions were up for grabs—positions that should have naturally gone to Camille. But Gabriel hadn't reserved a single one for her.

That spoke volumes.

Either he was keeping his distance, or their relationship had soured. Either way, Camille's influence within the company was waning.

Selene had witnessed Gabriel's unwavering support for Camille firsthand—especially during last year's gala, where he'd publicly defended her. For things to shift so drastically now was... unexpected.

But not entirely surprising.

Selene had always known Camille couldn't control Gabriel forever. This moment was inevitable.

A faint smirk curled her lips. "Noted. I'll submit my application soon."

Arlo chuckled, shooting Damien an amused glance. The man had been unusually quiet. "Damien spearheaded that Vertex Dynamics project for you. Leaving now might complicate things."

Damien simply placed a bite of food on Chloe's plate. "Doesn't matter."

Selene wasn't surprised. He'd always supported her unconditionally, never making her choose. The realization warmed her.

Tristan, who'd been occupied since New Year's, listened silently. His expression darkened slightly at the mention of Camille.

Camille and Gabriel were both Graham's protégés. She'd led NovaSight Labs's research team, pioneering their flagship projects.

Her importance was undeniable—titles meant little to someone like her.

But if she wasn't vying for a position, it meant she had other plans.

At the end of last year, Camille had expressed her intent to refocus on research. She and Gabriel had agreed to hand managerial duties to someone else.

Post-New Year, Gabriel began reaching out to potential candidates. The recruitment process would take time, but he already had a shortlist.

As for her latest research? Camille had compiled everything and sent it to Graham three days prior. All that remained was his feedback.

As if on cue, her phone buzzed.

A single message from Graham:

Come by my office tonight.