Chapter 99

The staff member was heading toward the elevator when he collided with Damien and his group in the hallway. Arlo asked, "This meal—"

"Madam Hartwell ordered it," the staff replied instantly.

Clearly, he meant Camille.

Damien's group didn't pressure the staff. They let him continue his work. After the staff left, Arlo chuckled. "Looks like we won't need to invite Camille to lunch."

Damien responded casually, "We should ask her to join us."

Selene froze at his words. Her lips pursed as she stared at him. Tristan and Arlo exchanged surprised glances.

Arlo laughed. "You're right. Mrs. Harrington Senior explicitly told you to look after Camille. She'll have our heads if we exclude her from lunch."

The hot spring retreat was Harrington property. Helena likely had her own people monitoring everything. Every move Damien's group made would be reported back to her.

Selene relaxed slightly at Arlo's explanation. She'd feared Damien was developing real feelings for Camille due to Helena's meddling. Clearly, she'd been overthinking.

Tristan also looked away after Arlo's remark.

Just then, Chloe returned. Damien ruffled her hair. "Go upstairs and ask your mother to join us for lunch."

Chloe blinked in surprise. "Mom's coming to lunch?"

"Yes."

Chloe's jaw dropped. She frowned at Selene. She didn't want her mother joining them. Camille would undoubtedly target Selene, ruining everyone's mood.

Selene smiled warmly. "Go on, sweetheart."

After hesitating, Chloe headed upstairs.

When the doorbell rang, Camille was already eating. She checked the monitor, saw Chloe, and set aside her meal. Opening the door, she asked, "What is it, Soph?"

Chloe bit her lip before meeting Camille's gaze. "Hi, Mom. Dad sent me. He wants you to join us for lunch downstairs."

Camille declined. "I'm already eating here. Enjoy your lunch without me."

Chloe exhaled in relief. "Okay. I'll tell Dad that, alright?"

Camille noticed Chloe's reluctance. "Sure. Bye."

"Bye!" Chloe chirped, turning to leave. After two steps, guilt struck her.

"Are you sure you'll be okay alone, Mom? Should I stay with you?"

Downstairs was lively and fun. Leaving Camille alone felt wrong. Yet Chloe's offer lacked enthusiasm—she clearly preferred joining Damien's group.

Camille wouldn't force reluctant company. She crouched to Chloe's level. "I enjoy solitude. Go have fun with them."

Chloe brightened instantly. "Alright. I'm going now."

"Go ahead," Camille said.

Chloe dashed off.

Camille watched her daughter disappear before closing the door. Alone again, she returned to her meal.