Chapter 42

Camille typed a quick reply. Understood. I'll return shortly.

That evening, she prepared honey-glazed ribs and homemade soup for Chloe. They spent the next two days together at the townhouse.

On Friday, Marianne called, inviting them for a family dinner. Camille brought Chloe along to the Hartwell estate.

Only Marianne was home when they arrived. The rest of the family were either attending social events or still at school.

Marianne hadn't known about Chloe's return. Her face lit up when she saw the little girl walk in behind Camille.

Chloe had always been close to her great-grandmother. Within minutes, she had Marianne laughing with her animated stories.

They decided to stay overnight. The next morning, Camille rose early to make breakfast.

Watching her granddaughter expertly flip pancakes, Marianne sighed. "You never used to cook before marriage."

Camille smiled knowingly. "It helps me think. I've grown to enjoy it."

Marianne noticed Camille had gained some healthy weight since her last visit. The hollows in her cheeks had filled out.

After breakfast, Camille went upstairs to check on Chloe. The girl was already brushing her teeth in the ensuite.

While gathering Chloe's pajamas, Camille noticed a message flash on her tablet screen.

From Selene Lancaster: "Chloe darling, I'm returning this afternoon. Let's have dinner tonight. I'll take you shopping tomorrow."

Camille deliberately looked away as she tossed the pajamas into the laundry hamper.

When she returned, Chloe was clutching her tablet. The girl quickly hid it behind her back when she saw Camille.

"Pancakes are ready," Camille said casually. "Let's go eat."

Chloe bounded off the bed. "Mom's pancakes! I've missed these!"

At the breakfast table, Marianne asked, "What would you like for dinner, sweetheart? I'll have the chef prepare it."

Chloe hesitated. She knew Marianne disapproved of Selene. "Grandma...Dad's coming home tonight. I should have dinner with him."

Marianne's smile faltered, but she didn't protest. Over the past two years, Chloe had grown attached to Damien.

Camille pretended not to notice the lie. She served Marianne another portion. "I'll stay here with you."

It was unconventional for a wife to remain at her family home when her husband returned. But given Damien's treatment of Camille, Marianne couldn't care less about propriety.

"That's my thoughtful girl," Marianne said warmly.

Chloe looked relieved. Now she wouldn't need to make excuses to meet Selene.

When it was time to leave, Marianne tried to pack snacks for Chloe.

Camille intercepted them. "Save these for Owen's children."

She didn't accompany Chloe to the door. Instead, she called Damien's butler to arrange transportation.

Marianne found this odd but didn't question it.