Chapter 404

Declan Vaughn frowned. "He's never visited the office?"

"Not once," a coworker confirmed. "That's why most of us assume Ms. Hartwell is divorced. It's been over six months, and she hasn't mentioned a husband even in passing."

"Exactly."

The logic was sound.

If Camille Hartwell were still married, would Felix Rhodes dare to pursue her so openly?

Yet Declan couldn't shake his unease. The idea that Camille had ever been married had never crossed his mind.

As he sat lost in thought, Camille approached. "Is something wrong?"

He wanted to ask, Is it true you were married?

But this was the workplace. Personal questions—especially to a superior—were inappropriate. One slip might be forgiven, but pushing further would cross a line.

Snapping back to reality, he forced a smile. "Nothing. Just thinking."

That afternoon, Camille's phone rang.

After hanging up, she informed Gabriel Ashcroft before leaving. "I might not be in until tomorrow afternoon. Can you cover the morning meeting?"

"Of course." He studied her. "Everything alright?"

"My mother has a medical appointment. I want to accompany her."

Gabriel, unaware of Audrey Hartwell's declining health, assumed it was routine. "Go ahead. I'll handle things here."

Camille nodded and left.

The next morning, Camille arrived at the hospital with Marianne and Talia Hartwell.

Even there, they kept their distance, careful not to let Audrey spot them.

During the examinations, Audrey grew increasingly agitated, thrashing like a wild animal. Multiple nurses had to restrain her for each procedure.

After ten grueling tests, Audrey finally left with the care home staff.

Marianne, exhausted herself, departed soon after. Camille stayed behind with the doctor to await results.

Most reports wouldn't be ready until afternoon—some not until tomorrow. But the preliminary findings were concerning.

Camille's stomach dropped as the doctor explained.

She thanked him and turned to leave. But as she stepped into the hospital lobby, a child's voice called out:

"Mommy!"

Camille froze. Her fingers clenched around her purse strap.

She considered pretending not to hear—until Chloe Harrington dashed over and wrapped her arms around Camille's waist.

"Mommy!"

Camille turned slightly. She opened her mouth—then spotted Damien Harrington watching from the crowd.

She looked away, focusing on Chloe. Hearing the girl cough, she asked softly, "Are you sick?"

Chloe nodded, coughing again before looking up. "Mommy, why are you here? Are you sick?"

"No, sweetheart." Camille touched her forehead. "Do you have a fever?"

"Last night, but it's gone now." Without waiting, Chloe hugged her tighter and glanced at Damien approaching. She pouted. "I wanted to call you to come with us, but Daddy said you were busy."

Camille kept her eyes averted from Damien.

"I am busy. But I'm glad you're feeling better." She hesitated. "Why come to the hospital? What about Dr. Harrington?"

For minor illnesses, their family doctor usually sufficed.

Damien spoke up then. "We're here for comprehensive checkups."

Camille didn't ask why.

Chloe clung to her excitedly. "Mommy, I don't have school today! Can I visit Grandma with you?"