Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 529

Dennis Williams glanced down at his hand, surprised to find it gently held in hers.

He hadn’t expected that.

Raising an eyebrow, Dennis looked over at Camila Davis.

Lillian had been sitting quietly at his side just a moment ago, but now Camila was crouched in front of her daughter, still holding onto his hand.

Her eyes were a little red at the corners, and for some reason, that look made his fingers tingle with an odd restlessness.

Dennis didn’t fight the urge—honestly, he didn’t even want to.

He reached up, softly brushed away the tear that clung to the corner of her eye, and smiled, his tone warm and easy. “It’s nothing, really. Helping Lillian through her treatment has been a real joy for me.”

He glanced at the little girl, then back at Camila. “Her case taught me a lot, actually. Kids like her inspire me. And besides—I like Lillian. As her doctor, I’m committed to seeing her get better. I won’t stop until she’s completely healthy, no matter how long it takes.”

Camila nodded, fully agreeing. Only then did she notice that she was still holding his hand.

Oh god. Did he think she grabbed his hand on purpose?

Flustered, Camila let go and pulled her hand back, her voice a little awkward. “Sorry… I got a bit emotional, I guess.”

Unbeknownst to her, her ears turned red again.

Dennis noticed, and couldn’t help but let out a quiet chuckle. “It’s fine. I get it. No need to apologize.”

The afternoon slipped by quickly.

They lingered in the coffee shop for a while until the sun began to set.

Dennis had already made dinner reservations and invited the mother and daughter to join him. Camila saw no reason to refuse.

He’d chosen a place known for its family-friendly vibe and good food, and he made sure to order dishes he knew Camila and Lillian would love.

Lillian, it turned out, adored shrimp. Dennis spent the whole meal peeling them for her, and when she was almost full, he peeled a few for Camila too.

When it came time to pick the bones out of Lillian’s fish fillet, Dennis did the same for Camila, nudging her plate closer. “Go on, eat up. Don’t just sit there staring at it—if it gets cold, the taste will be awful.”

The other girl, a brunette with an air of soft elegance, smiled serenely. “Dennis is busy, you know that. And honestly, I don’t want to bother him. There’s no rush. He’s not leaving town again, so we’ll have plenty of time together now.”

She looked honestly happy at the thought.

Her friend grinned, teasing, “Don’t tell me I’ll have to watch you two being all lovey-dovey from now on?”

Cynthia Lee, cheeks pink, shook her head. “You know Dennis—he’s never been the public display type. He likes to keep things low-key. Our relationship won’t be all over Instagram or anything.”

Layla Morris, her friend, nodded in understanding. “That’s true. Mr. Williams is basically a mystery man—half the city was betting your engagement had fallen through. Now it’s official, I’d better start shopping for your wedding gift!”

Cynthia’s smile was dreamy. “Dennis isn’t that mysterious—he’s just been away working. Now that Grandpa Williams is unwell, Dennis wants to be closer to family. He’s always been closest to his grandfather… Our families agreed, once he was back, we’d set a date. It’s not sudden, really.”

Layla sighed with genuine affection. “You waited for him so long—it’s wonderful you’ll finally have your happy ending. So what’s the plan for the big day? I’m your best friend, so I’d better be your maid of honor!”

Cynthia laughed. “Whatever Dennis and the families decide is fine by me.”

The girls giggled together, only then noticing someone else was nearby.