Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 1026

Dennis’s face stayed tense, his brows knitted tight. Getting better didn’t feel like enough. Every bit of pain that Camila had suffered, the Smith family owed back a hundred times over.

He called Aaron over, gave him a few more quiet instructions, then watched him leave to handle it. After that, Dennis turned and headed back to the medical room. When he stepped inside, he found Camila’s parents, Melissa and Jerry Davis, already there. He’d told them everything, keeping the truth from Lillian alone.

Melissa had broken down over the phone when she heard what happened. Guilt and heartache poured out in her tears. Jerry had been shocked too, and after getting the story, both of them couldn’t stop cursing the Smith family. They blamed themselves for not being more careful, for not watching over their daughter and granddaughter.

“If I’d just stayed with Lillian, if I’d paid more attention, Camila wouldn’t have had to go through this,” Melissa choked out, her voice barely steady.

Jerry was hurting too, but tried to comfort her. “You can’t stop people who are determined to do harm. If they wanted to take Camila, they would have found a way. If you’d been there, they might have hurt you, too. It’s already happened. All we can do now is be there for Camila.”

Melissa nodded, wiping her eyes and pulling herself together. Her daughter needed her more than ever.

In just two days, both Melissa and Jerry looked like they’d aged years. If it weren’t for having to take care of Lillian and keep things from her, Melissa probably would have collapsed already. Now, all their energy was focused on Camila. They brought her favorite food, hoping it would coax her to eat.

Even though Camila didn’t remember them, there was something about family that made her relax, something that felt safe and familiar. The new medication Dr. Williams had given her seemed to be helping; she looked a little better today.

The table was covered with all her favorite dishes. Camila took a bite, and a real smile lit up her face. “This is really good,” she said to her parents, her voice soft but genuine.

Melissa finally felt a bit of relief. “If you like it, eat more. You need to get your strength back.”

Camila nodded and slid a plate toward her mom. “You should eat too.”

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