Chapter 199
Chapter 199:
Victoria’s expression remained neutral, but her eyes held a protective wariness. “Apologies are easy. Changed behavior is what matters.”
The car slowed as they approached the Lewis estate, an imposing limestone mansion set back from the street behind ornate iron gates. Lights glowed behind curtained windows, warm and inviting. Yet, Camille’s stomach tightened with each passing second.
“They don’t know you’re coming,” she reminded Victoria.
A small, almost mischievous smile curved Victoria’s lips. “I know. Consider it a test of their sincerity.”
The gates opened automatically, recognizing the car Camille had registered with security. They rolled up the circular driveway, stopping at the front entrance where light spilled onto the marble steps.
The butler, Harrison, opened the door before they could ring the bell. His eyes widened slightly at the sight of Victoria, but his professional training prevailed.
“Miss Camille,” he greeted with a slight bow. “Ms. Kane. Please come in. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis are in the drawing room.”
They followed Harrison through the grand foyer, with its sweeping staircase and crystal chandelier. Camille caught sight of the family portrait above the fireplace, showing her at sixteen with her parents. Rose was noticeably absent, one of the few family images that hadn’t included her adopted sister.
Harrison announced their arrival. “Miss Camille and Ms. Victoria Kane.”
Her parents rose from their seats.
Seats were taken, faces showing the progression of joy at seeing Camille, followed by stunned surprise at Victoria’s presence.
“Victoria Kane,” her mother said, recovering quickly. “What an unexpected pleasure.”
“I hope I’m not imposing,” Victoria replied smoothly. “Camille means a great deal to me. I wanted to meet the people who raised her.”
The undercurrent in Victoria’s words was unmistakable. She was here to evaluate, to judge, to protect.
gαℓησν𝒆𝓁s﹒c𝗈m has it all
“Not imposing at all,” Richard insisted, signaling to Harrison. “Please, both of you make yourselves comfortable. Harrison, inform Mrs. Martha we’ll have an additional guest for dinner.”
The drawing room looked exactly as Camille remembered, yet somehow smaller. The antique furniture, the grand piano where she had practiced for countless hours, the rare first editions her father collected—all unchanged, all different through her now-experienced eyes.
“A drink before dinner?” Richard offered, gesturing to the uniformed server who had appeared with a silver tray.
“Water is fine for me,” Victoria said. “I never mix alcohol with business, and I consider tonight business.”
Margaret’s smile tightened. “And what business might that be, Ms. Kane?”
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