Chapter 354

The coach didn't spell it out, but Camille could read between the lines.

Truth be told, she'd already suspected Chloe's sudden interest in fencing stemmed from either Damien or Selene's influence.

But she refused to dwell on it.

Though she'd relinquished custody and wouldn't interfere with Chloe's future, the girl remained her daughter—her own flesh and blood. Even as distance grew between them, Camille still wished for Chloe's success.

If fencing benefited her, that was enough. The inspiration behind it mattered little.

Camille didn't watch Chloe's entire training session.

As practice neared its end, she was checking something on her phone when a shadow fell beside her.

She glanced up to find Damien's intense gaze fixed upon her. Meeting his eyes briefly, she looked away.

"What research are you conducting?" he inquired.

She pocketed her phone without answering.

Damien seemed poised to say more when Chloe's session concluded. The girl ripped off her fencing mask and sprinted over. "Papa!"

He smiled, tousling her damp hair. "Finished?"

"Yes!" Chloe beamed, then thrust her towel at Camille. "Mama, could you...?"

After wiping her daughter's face, Chloe peered up hopefully. "I'm starving. Shall we all have lunch?"

"Certainly," Damien agreed.

Chloe turned to Camille. "Mama, what would you like?"

Camille folded the towel neatly. "I have prior engagements. You two enjoy your meal."

Chloe's face fell.

This wasn't unexpected—how many times had Mama declined their invitations before?

But today felt different. Mama had stayed all morning. Maybe...

Her lower lip trembled as she whispered, "Alright."

Damien intervened smoothly. "Join us. I won't mention... certain topics."

Vertex Dynamics wasn't the only reason for her refusal. "No, you go ahead," she said firmly.

Dining with Chloe alone was one thing—but with Damien present? Unnecessary.

He studied her for a moment before nodding. "As you wish."

Chloe's eyes welled up, her small hands clenching.

Camille hesitated, then gently smoothed Chloe's hair. "Next time I'm free, just us two."

The promise barely lifted Chloe's spirits, but she managed a tiny nod.

Having said her piece, Camille collected her bag.

Chloe panicked at her mother's departure. She grabbed Camille's wrist desperately. "Mama! Will you come to my tournament next month?"