Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 372

Sarah Brown couldn’t find a single flaw in the way Camila explained things. She was left completely speechless, unable to come up with a counter-argument.

“But still, the real problem now is the piano. I mean, I can’t accept it—it’s just way too expensive.”

Camila Davis looked genuinely troubled.

She just couldn’t bring herself to accept such an extravagant gift.

But Sarah shrugged and grinned. “Honestly? With someone like Mr. Williams, that kind of money probably means nothing to him. Besides, Lillian got a gift from Ms. Hill today too, right? Wouldn’t it be kinda awkward if we accepted one but not the other? Might look like we’re playing favorites.”

She added, “Of course, we shouldn’t just take advantage of their generosity either. Here’s what you do: figure out a thoughtful gift to give back—something they’d appreciate, or at least of similar value. That way, it’s fair and square, and you keep the good vibes going. Win-win, right?”

Camila found herself nodding along, convinced by Sarah’s logic.

Actually, the idea was pretty solid.

But she couldn’t help but laugh at herself a little, too.

Looks like, if this keeps up, I seriously need to make more money… If everyone starts gift-giving at this level, I’ll go broke in no time.

But then she thought, If it helps Lillian get better, find her passions, and grow up happy and well-adjusted, then honestly, what mom wouldn’t think it’s worth it?

With that in mind, Camila’s spirits lifted and she felt a renewed sense of purpose.

The rest of the weekend was a happy one for both Camila and Lillian.

Time flew by, and before they knew it, Monday had arrived.

The annual Medical Trade Conference was finally here.

Early that morning, Camila dropped Lillian off at school, swung by the research institute, and after lunch, got ready for the big event.

The venue was already buzzing with top industry experts from all over the country…

The first thing Camila did when she arrived was look for her mentor.

She hadn’t seen Dr. Morris in days, not since she’d been working at his house. She figured today would be the day.

But after searching the whole place, she was surprised to find he wasn’t there.

So she pulled out her phone and called Patrick, Dr. Morris’s assistant.

“Hey Patrick, is Dr. Morris not coming to the conference? I didn’t see him anywhere.”

Patrick chuckled warmly. “Ms. Davis, Dr. Morris decided to skip the daytime sessions. Said the seminars were too long and too hard on his old bones. But don’t worry—he’ll be at the awards dinner tonight.”

The praise came sincerely, not a hint of flattery. These were top experts, the kind you usually only read about in science journals or see giving keynote speeches on TV. Camila, of course, was deeply respectful.

With a friendly, unhurried smile, she greeted each person in turn.

“Dr. Brown, I’ve read every one of your papers—your work on gene therapy is legendary…”

“And Dr. Brooks, your emergency response during the Riverbend floods—leading your team for a month of non-stop volunteer work—left a huge impression on me. It’s an honor to finally meet you in person.”

Camila moved from one to the next, confident and composed, her manners impeccable.

What really surprised Mr. Mark was how Camila seemed to know something impressive about each of the experts—every comment she made was spot-on and thoughtful.

Dr. Brown nodded appreciatively. “Our field could use more fresh talent like yours.”

“I’ve heard so much about you, Ms. Davis,” another chimed in. “Can’t believe you’re so young. Makes me feel ancient!”

Someone else, curious, finally asked the question everyone was thinking. Dr. Brooks, ever the straightforward one, came right out with it:

“So tell us—who’s your mentor, Ms. Davis? Anyone who could train someone like you must be quite something.”

Camila was just about to answer, but the conference was about to begin. Mr. Mark ushered everyone to their seats, and the conversation had to pause—for now.