Chapter 95

Camille shared the same suspicion. She was convinced this was Damien's way of compensating Selene after preventing her uncle from occupying the penthouse opposite Owen.

Damien adored Selene. He'd never intentionally make her feel inadequate just to accommodate Camille.

Gabriel remarked, "If Selene's been hiding her true potential all along, then—"

His voice trailed off. Both he and Camille were Graham's protégés—that much was undeniable.

Though Graham maintained a cold demeanor toward them, their bond ran deeper than appearances suggested.

Beneath his frosty exterior, Graham possessed a compassionate heart. His high standards didn't negate his genuine care for them.

Yet Graham was also a man of unwavering principles. Should Selene demonstrate exceptional talent, he wouldn't reject her as an apprentice simply because of her feud with Camille.

This was Gabriel's primary concern.

Camille, however, regained her composure swiftly. "Let's focus on our immediate tasks," she suggested.

Her priority now was executing her responsibilities flawlessly.

Camille didn't return to the Harrington estate until late that evening. Helena had retired for the night, and Damien was conspicuously absent—likely not returning at all.

Emerging from her shower, Camille froze when she spotted Damien in the bedroom. His unexpected appearance surprised her. She gave a brief nod in acknowledgment.

She didn't inquire about his dinner with Graham, nor did he volunteer any explanation. After a momentary glance, he disappeared into the bathroom.

The next morning, Camille slept in. Descending the stairs, she heard Helena's acerbic voice. "It was past eleven when I retired last night, Damien, and you were still missing. I'd nearly given up hope of seeing you home again!"

Damien sat calmly sipping tea across from Helena, offering no response.

She rapped the table sharply. "Have you lost your tongue?"

Setting down his cup, Damien noticed Camille's approach. His gaze flickered toward her briefly before returning to Helena. "Weren't you the one demanding my presence for your morning outing?"

"I thought you'd ignored me again!" Helena scoffed.

"Wouldn't dream of it," Damien replied, though his indifferent expression suggested otherwise.

Helena clutched her chest dramatically before waving Camille over. "Join us, dear."

Taking a seat, Camille asked, "Are you two planning an excursion, Grandmother?"

"Correction—we three are going," Helena corrected with a chuckle. "Where would you like to visit, Camille? Your wish is my command."

Camille considered herself rather uncreative when it came to leisure activities. "I'm content with anything. The choice is yours, Grandmother."

Helena's eyes sparkled with mischief. "What about the thermal springs? Our last attempt was... interrupted." She shot Damien a pointed look. "This time, certain individuals will make proper amends."

Damien continued drinking his tea, utterly unfazed by the implied accusation. The previous incident might as well have never occurred for all the reaction it provoked.

Camille averted her gaze. While she'd visited the springs before and currently felt little enthusiasm, she wouldn't deny Helena's request. "That sounds lovely."