Divorced the Cheat Married the Fleet (Camilla and Lance) novel Chapter 538

Bonnie had always noticed Elaine's insecurity but never pushed her. Hearing Jasper's unwavering defense, a heavy burden lifted from Elaine's chest. Suddenly, the stray hairs hiding her ears didn't matter anymore.

"Mom," Elaine said softly, "My hair is messy. Can you braid it for me?"

"Of course, sweetheart. I'll braid it however you like when we get home," Bonnie replied, her eyes shining with unshed tears. When Elaine was younger, she adored braided hairstyles, but had recently insisted on leaving her hair down to hide her scars. This simple request proved that she had finally let go of her shame. Bonnie looked at Jasper's retreating back with profound gratitude. His genuine friendship had given her daughter the confidence she desperately needed.

When Camilla and Jasper returned to the precinct lobby, Lance was chatting with Chief Mahoney. The older man looked exhausted, as if he had just returned from a long, arduous trip.

Seeing Camilla approach, Lance scooped Jasper into his arms. "Catch up with Mahoney. I'll take Jasper outside and wait for you."

"Camilla, seeing how perfectly you two operate together, I must say I'm impressed," Mahoney chuckled. "Our notorious rebel has become a full-time dad! So, when's the wedding?"

Camilla smiled warmly. "Soon. Once this chaos settles, we're going to see Carney to pick a date. You'll be the first to get an invitation, Mahoney."

"Excellent! I'll be waiting for that drink," Mahoney beamed. "By the way, I have some fantastic news for you. A couple of days ago, we received a tip about a disturbance on a coastal island, along with reported sightings of Barnard. We investigated and found a solid trail. Barnard was finally apprehended in Sutherland. It will take a few days to process his extradition back to Cabinda, but he will never have the chance to harass you again."

"And as for Davina, our investigation into her husband's murder will ensure she's locked away for a very long time. Those two nightmares are permanently out of your life."

Hearing that Barnard was finally in custody shocked Camilla for a second before a wave of poetic justice washed over her. It was remarkably fitting that Barnard and Davina's criminal runs had ended on the exact same day.

"That's wonderful news. Thank you for your hard work, Mahoney," Camilla said sincerely.

"It's my job, kid," Mahoney waved off her gratitude. "I heard your dad is coming back to Cabinda. Tell him his old buddies are lining up to buy him a drink."

Since Tessa had regained her sanity, she had mellowed out significantly, and Camilla could feel her genuine attempts to mend fences. There was no need to let her suffer public humiliation.

"A wedding date?!" Darwin gasped, instantly zeroing in on the revelation. "You two are getting married?!"

Darwin had been dropping heavy hints for months, but Lance had always deflected, claiming he was waiting for Camilla to be ready and didn't want to pressure her. Had his future granddaughter-in-law finally made up her mind?! It was about time! Darwin was certain no other family in the world could offer a more devoted welcome than the Charleses.

"Yes, Grandpa," Camilla smiled warmly. "I've seen how much love and support this family has given me. I know exactly how deeply Lance cares for me, and Jasper deserves a complete, happy home. I want to marry Lance."

"Fantastic! This is phenomenal news!" Darwin roared with delight, his face lighting up. "Dane! Start making the arrangements immediately! Announce to everyone that the Charles family is having a wedding! And call your sister; tell her to get back here and help organize everything! We are going to throw the most spectacular wedding this city has ever seen!"

He was already shouting orders before they even had a date.