Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 183

Sarah Brown made herself right at home, quickly following Camila Davis to wash up before dinner.

A few minutes later, the four adults and little Lillian gathered around the dining table.

The food looked incredible—Camila and her mom had clearly cooked up a feast, with everything tailored to their tastes. The aroma of roast chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and fresh Caesar salad filled the air, making everyone instantly hungry.

Before anyone dug in, Melissa George looked a bit apologetic. “Sarah, I had no idea you’d be joining us tonight, so I just made what Camila and I usually like. Hope you don’t mind?”

Sarah waved her off with a grin, already eyeing the food. “Not at all! If Lillian and Camila like it, I’m sure I will, too!”

“Glad to hear it,” Melissa said, smiling warmly as she served Sarah a generous helping. “Here, take as much as you want—don’t be shy!”

Sarah nodded eagerly and wasted no time popping a forkful into her mouth.

After just a couple of bites, she blurted out, “Wow, this is amazing! Camila, Uncle Jerry, you guys are incredible cooks. Seriously, my taste buds are doing cartwheels.”

The older couple beamed at her praise.

“Well, eat up! Camila told us how much you’ve helped her lately—we can’t thank you enough,” Melissa said, piling a bit more food onto Sarah’s plate.

Sarah just shrugged. “Camila’s my best friend—helping each other is what friends do. You really don’t have to thank me, Mr. and Mrs. Davis!”

Across the table, Jerry Davis looked over with a serious expression. “Oh, but we do! Camila’s always been tough and independent—never tells us when something’s wrong. Her mom and I, we’re not around as much as we’d like, so it means a lot knowing she’s got you looking out for her. We’re really grateful.”

Sarah blushed, a little embarrassed. “Honestly, it’s nothing! Camila helps me out plenty, too. And, let’s be real, I’m over here eating your home cooking all the time anyway—I think we’re even! Plus, you’re always sending care packages, and I always get my fair share.”

Melissa laughed. “You like those? Well, make sure you grab extra before you head home tonight—Mason and I brought a bunch.”

“Really? Awesome!” Sarah’s eyes lit up, nodding enthusiastically.

Once they’d made sure Sarah was well-fed, the Davises turned their attention to Lillian, making sure she got her fill, too.

The result? By the end of dinner, both Sarah and Lillian were stuffed.

To walk it off, Sarah took Lillian outside to play with Lightning, the family’s energetic golden retriever.

Meanwhile, Camila joined her parents in the living room, sipping peppermint tea and helping everyone digest.

Melissa finally saw her chance to ask, “So, Camila, now that you and Lillian have moved here, has Jordan Smith given you any trouble?”

Lillian nodded, her little voice full of pride. “Lightning’s the best! Uncle Jerry gave him to me—he’s super smart and knows lots of tricks.” She nuzzled her furry friend, then said, “Lightning, say hi to Grandma and Grandpa!”

As if he understood, Lightning lifted a paw and gave a cheerful bark, making everyone laugh.

Melissa’s heart melted. She spent the next ten minutes chatting with Lillian and making friends with Lightning, feeling grateful for these simple family moments.

Eventually, Lightning got restless and darted off, with Lillian chasing after him.

Only then did Melissa turn to Camila, her face full of amazement. “We haven’t even been back that long, but Lillian’s doing so much better—she’s just like any other kid now!”

Jerry nodded, beaming. “That school you picked must be wonderful.”

Camila explained, “The school helps, but honestly, a lot of it is thanks to Mr. Williams—he’s the new child psychologist I found for Lillian…”

She filled her parents in about Dennis Williams, and when she finished, they both shook their heads in wonder. “He sounds like a miracle worker.”

Camila was about to agree when a message popped up on her phone.

“Ms. Davis, are you free tomorrow? Mr. Williams just got back to Harrisburg and would like you and Lillian to join him at this place.” There was an address attached.