Chapter 400
Chapter 400:
The phoenix motif that had started with Camille’s pendant, then appeared in their engagement ring design and later in their joint business ventures, had captured the public’s imagination. Where Victoria had once taught Camille to use symbols to intimidate, now those same symbols served a different purpose, inspiring hope and possibility.
“Do you think the media attention will ever die down?” she asked.
Alexander shook his head. “Not completely. We’re too visible now. But we can control the narrative better than most.”
“And what is our narrative?” Camille asked, genuinely curious about how he saw their story.
Alexander considered before answering. “That real strength isn’t about revenge or power for its own sake. It’s about building something meaningful from pain. It’s about choosing creation over destruction.”
His words hit her with unexpected force. Wasn’t that exactly what she’d been trying to do since Rose’s conviction? What she hoped to continue with their marriage and whatever came after?
“I can live with that story,” she said softly.
Returning to the wedding binder, Camille flipped through venue options with new purpose. “Let’s visit the lakeside property this weekend. Before Victoria persuades us to host at some ultra-modern venue that wouldn’t suit us at all.”
“Agreed,” Alexander said, checking his calendar. “And perhaps we should call your parents. See if they want to join us for the site visit.”
Camille nodded, reaching for her phone. The invitation would be another small step in strengthening the bonds between all parts of her life.
“Mom? It’s me,” she said when Margaret answered. “Alexander and I are going to look at a potential wedding venue this weekend. Would you and Dad like to join us?”
Her mother’s voice came through, polished and warm. “We’d love to, darling. Actually, Victoria called this morning about the engagement party. She mentioned you might be considering a venue outside the city.”
“She did?” Camille wasn’t surprised that Victoria had already touched base with her mother. Their cordial relationship had evolved to include regular communication about matters concerning Camille, though she knew they weren’t exactly friends.
“Yes, she asked for my opinion on having live music versus a DJ for the engagement party. I suggested the string quartet that played at the Whitfields’ anniversary. I hope that’s alright?”
“That’s perfect, Mom. I’m glad you two are coordinating.”
“Well, your father and Victoria have been discussing business opportunities lately, so we’ve been in more regular contact,” Margaret explained. “Nothing serious, just exploring some potential philanthropic partnerships. It’s been… enlightening.”
Camille raised an eyebrow, surprised but pleased. Her mother’s diplomatic phrasing told her everything she needed to know: Victoria and her parents maintained their cordial relationship without forcing artificial closeness, finding appropriate ways to interact that respected their different backgrounds and perspectives.
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