Chapter 16

Chloe Harrington showed no remorse for publicly humiliating Maisie earlier. The opinions of her classmates meant nothing to her.

Yet as Camille Hartwell turned to leave, an unexpected tightness gripped Chloe's chest. "Mom—"

Camille paused, wrapping her arms around her daughter. "Yes, sweetheart?"

"I want to—"

Chloe suddenly remembered how long it had been since she'd tasted her mother's homemade cooking. The realization struck her with unexpected longing.

But then she recalled her plans to watch Selene Lancaster's competition that evening. Her grip loosened as hesitation flickered across her face.

"Never mind."

Her mother's cooking could wait—there would always be another time. Selene's competition, however, was a rare event.

The decision came easily.

"Alright then. Don't keep your teacher waiting."

"Okay."

Chloe finally released her hold, but paused at the classroom door. "Mom, don't forget to call me at lunch."

Camille smiled warmly. "I won't."

Only then did Chloe enter the classroom.

Camille lingered just long enough to see her daughter confidently introduce herself before taking a seat.

With a final wave, Camille left for Harrington Group.

At the office, Caleb Doyle waited at her desk with an unfamiliar woman in tow.

"This is Phoebe Carver," Caleb announced. "She'll be taking over your position."

Phoebe was stunning—dressed head-to-toe in designer labels. Her assessing gaze swept over Camille's polished professionalism.

Though her smile didn't quite reach her eyes, Phoebe extended a perfectly manicured hand. "Ms. Hartwell, what a pleasure. I'll be shadowing you this week."

"The pleasure's mine," Camille replied politely.

Phoebe continued smoothly, "I just completed my master's at Briarwood College. Where did you study? Were you—"

Camille arched a brow at the mention of Phoebe's recent graduation. The girl likely had minimal work experience. Still, Camille reserved judgment.

After all, she herself had risen to team leader despite others having more impressive academic credentials.

"Ms. Carver," Camille interjected gently, "we have a meeting shortly. Let's focus on work."

Phoebe laughed, a practiced tinkling sound. "Of course! How silly of me. Business first."

En route to the meeting, Phoebe leaned in conspiratorially. "I've heard Mr. Harrington is devastatingly handsome. True?"

Camille answered honestly. "He is."

Phoebe practically vibrated with excitement. "Now I'm doubly eager to meet him! Though Caleb mentioned he won't be in today—what a shame."

This was news to Camille, though not surprising. Damien managed multiple corporations and rarely spent consecutive days at Harrington Group.

At lunch, Phoebe dragged Camille to the cafeteria. As they settled with their trays, Camille reached for her phone.

"Calling your boyfriend?" Phoebe teased.

"My daughter, actually."

"You're married?"

"Yes."

Meanwhile, Chloe video-called Selene Lancaster. Damien Harrington appeared in frame as well.

Chloe pouted at the screen. "You two are cheating! Having lunch without me!"

"That's because you're at school," Selene countered. "I'll pick you up later and we'll all have dinner. Deal?"

"Better."

Chloe's eyes narrowed as Damien placed food on Selene's plate.

"What would you like for dinner?" Damien asked casually. "I'll have it prepared."