Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 447

Cynthia Lee had been looking forward to tonight all day. She double-checked the address Aaron had texted her, smoothed her dress, and took a deep breath before walking into the cozy bistro.

Dennis Williams was already there.

She pushed open the door to their reserved booth, a bright smile lighting up her face—until she spotted another figure sitting beside Dennis.

Larry Adams.

Her smile faltered for a split second. What the hell was Larry doing here?

She’d thought this dinner was going to be a date—just her and Dennis. Now, apparently, it was a crowd.

Larry wasn’t exactly a stranger, but they weren’t close either. They’d crossed paths a few times at those stuffy country club galas, the kind where the champagne flows and everyone is pretending not to judge each other.

He greeted her politely, “Heard Dennis was treating you to dinner, Ms. Lee. I happened to be free and figured I’d tag along. Hope you don’t mind?”

Of course she minded. Cynthia had spent hours picking out her dress and planning what to say to Dennis. Now her special night was ruined.

Still, she forced a gracious smile and replied, “You’re Dennis’s friend. If he invited you, why would I mind?”

Which was a lie. Truth be told, she’d never really liked Larry Adams. He was nothing like Dennis. Dennis was the golden boy, the heir apparent, the guy everyone admired at the club. Larry was just… the Adams family’s black sheep, whose mother’s reputation was still talked about in whispered rumors.

Worse, he never seemed to get the hint, always hanging around Dennis like a lost puppy. Everyone in their circle joked behind his back—Larry Adams, Dennis Williams’s loyal lapdog. The poor guy didn’t even have a shot at inheriting anything from his family.

Still, Cynthia kept her feelings hidden. Her real goal tonight was Dennis. No way was she going to let Larry ruin things by making her look petty or unfriendly in front of him.

She slid into her seat and glanced at Dennis. “Dennis, did you already order?”

Before Dennis could answer, Larry jumped in, “Yeah, we picked a few of our favorites. Not sure what you like, Ms. Lee, so feel free to add anything.”

“Thanks,” Cynthia replied politely, scanning the menu. She chose a couple dishes she knew Dennis liked—grilled ribeye and Caesar salad. She’d heard from old Mr. Williams that Dennis had a thing for steak nights.

Dennis, though, barely glanced at her. He sipped his coffee, voice cool and distant, “How’s work going in Harrisburg, Ms. Lee? Everything smooth?”

Just the fact that he’d spoken to her made Cynthia’s heart flutter. She nodded quickly, “Oh, yes, everything’s going really well…”

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