Chapter 224

Felix Rhodes's phone buzzed urgently. After a brief conversation, he slipped it back into his pocket. "Business calls. I need to head back - care to join?"

Everett Mercer snapped from his thoughts, his dark eyes flickering with unreadable emotions. "No. I'm expecting someone. Another time."

"Understood." Felix departed without another word.

The moment his silhouette vanished, Everett turned sharply toward the café entrance.

As he pushed through the glass doors, he collided with Selene Lancaster leading Chloe Harrington toward the restrooms.

Both parties froze mid-step.

Selene's eyes widened in recognition. "Mr. Mercer? What an unexpected encounter."

"Indeed." Everett let the door swing shut behind him, his gaze sweeping across the bustling café. His attention snagged on Damien Harrington placing an order at the counter.

When his eyes returned to Chloe, recognition struck like lightning.

The resemblance was undeniable - this child shared at least half of Damien's features. Still, he feigned ignorance. "And this is...?"

Selene's lashes fluttered downward. "Damien's daughter."

Confirmation.

Everett's stomach twisted.

Chloe suddenly piped up, tugging Selene's sleeve. "Who's this handsome stranger?"

Selene bent gracefully, tapping the child's nose. "An acquaintance of mine."

"Oh." Chloe nodded sagely.

Selene turned back to Everett. "Mr. Mercer, are you meeting someone—"

"Selene, NOW!" Chloe's urgent whisper-cut her off, small hands clutching desperately at her companion's arm. The milkshake's consequences had become dire.

Everett's brow furrowed at the child's imperious tone. Yet Selene remained unruffled, her smile patient. "Of course, darling. Right away."

She offered Everett an apologetic glance. "Excuse us."

Watching their interaction, something primal stirred in Everett's chest. "Actually, I could use the facilities myself. Shall we?"

Selene nodded. "By all means."

Chloe couldn't wait another second. She wrenched free and bolted toward the restroom.

"Chloe!" Selene abandoned decorum and sprinted after the child. "Wait for me!"

Everett's frown deepened. The girl's behavior bordered on disrespectful.

Chloe suddenly skidded to a halt, head swiveling toward the crowded mall.

"Chloe?" Selene caught up, immediately recognizing that searching look. Had she spotted Camille?

Noticing Everett's approach, Selene quickly grasped Chloe's hand. "Darling, didn't you need—"

"Hmm." Chloe scanned the throng once more before shaking her head. Must've imagined it. She dashed into the restroom.

Unbeknownst to them, Camille Hartwell stood precisely where Chloe had looked - obscured by the midday crowd.

Two souls separated by mere feet, yet worlds apart.