Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 137

“I checked out the place for you—the style is gorgeous, totally your vibe. Want to go see it?” her friend asked.

Camila Davis didn’t hesitate. “Absolutely!”

So the two of them, with little Lillian in tow, headed over to the building next door.

And wow, it was even better than Camila expected.

The apartment was a top-floor penthouse, with four or five spacious bedrooms, tons of sunlight, and a view to die for.

She could already picture converting one room into a study, another into Lillian’s art studio, maybe even a music room. Heck, even Lightning, their golden retriever, could have his own space!

Camila was seriously impressed. She turned to her best friend. “How much are they asking for this place?”

With a grin, her friend replied, “It was over four million before, but now they’re asking three and a half. That’s a big drop!”

Camila didn’t even blink. “I’ll take it!”

Thanks to the generous fees from Dr. Walter Wilson’s clinic, her consulting work with the military, and the recent payment from the Adams family, she’d finally saved up enough for the down payment.

“Great, I’ll handle all the paperwork for you. You just have to sign on the dotted line—leave the rest to me.”

“Perfect,” Camila said, feeling relieved to hand it off to someone she trusted.

The next day was a Saturday, so Lillian didn’t have school. Camila hired professionals to check the new place for environmental safety—no mold, no lead paint, that kind of thing. Once they got the green light, she and her friend headed over to IKEA and Bed Bath & Beyond to pick out some furniture and home essentials.

By the time they’d finished putting down deposits and scheduling deliveries, it was getting late.

After dinner that night, Camila’s phone rang. It was Susan, Lillian’s longtime nanny. “Mrs. Smith, Mr. Smith wants me to come over and help take care of Lillian. Could you send me your new address?”

Camila frowned. Jordan Smith again… What’s he up to this time?

She was about to refuse, but Susan sounded worried. “Mrs. Smith, my paycheck comes from Mr. Smith. If I’m not watching Lillian, I don’t have a job. Please, for all the years I’ve looked after her—could you let me stay on? I promise I’ll keep taking good care of her.”

Camila’s heart softened. Susan really was devoted, and Lillian adored her. Besides, with her new work schedule, having Susan around would be a huge help. As for the paycheck, Camila could just pay her directly and avoid any more drama with Jordan.

Sandra hesitated, stung by his indifference. Ever since that birthday dinner, he’d been distant. When Daniel, her son, was in the hospital for vaccinations, Jordan hadn’t visited once. Daniel kept asking, “Why isn’t Dad Jordan coming to see me?”

Sandra had dropped hints all week, but Jordan seemed oblivious. Now, she felt a cold wave of panic. She walked over and took his hand, trying to sound playful. “Jordan, Daniel misses you. Would you come home with me tonight? He’d be so happy!”

Jordan gently pulled his hand away. “Maybe another time. I’ve got things to do—I’m heading out.”

He grabbed his coat and left, not looking back.

Sandra stood frozen, stunned. He’d never been this cold before. Something was definitely off.

She decided to ask Jordan’s right-hand man, Nathan Gates, what was up. “Is Jordan meeting anyone tonight?” she asked, trying to sound casual.

Nathan hesitated, then answered, “No, ma’am. I think he’s just picking up Lillian from school. Ms. Davis enrolled her in a new place—Mr. Smith’s been a little worried.”

Sandra nodded, but inside, she was rattled. Since when did Jordan care about that kid? He’d always been indifferent before. Was Camila’s threat of divorce actually getting to him?

Sandra had always felt secure in her position, but now… she wasn’t so sure. Especially since Jordan kept dragging his feet on the divorce. If he didn’t love Camila, why not just let her go?