Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 642

After thinking it through, Camila Davis finally managed to steady herself a bit. “Well, I guess… I’ll stay over tonight, then,” she said, a little hesitant but trying to sound casual.

Dennis Williams’ eyes flickered with a hint of a smile. “Alright, then let’s go. I’ll give you the grand tour.”

He motioned for her to follow, leading her through the rest of the house. Every floor, every room, he explained what they were for, pointing out little details—where the fireplace glowed in winter, how the study overlooked the old oak tree in the backyard, the way the kitchen always smelled like cinnamon rolls on Sunday mornings.

At first, Camila was a bit out of it, just nodding along. But by the time they finished, they ended up in a cozy guest room on the second floor.

Dennis had clearly picked this one out just for her. The balcony looked right over the backyard, where a big maple tree stood, its leaves whispering in the night breeze. Even though it was late, the view was something out of a painting—soft porch lights, the silhouette of the tree, the faint glow of fireflies.

The gentle rustle of leaves seemed to quiet the restless thoughts in her mind.

They both stepped out onto the balcony, leaning against the railing. Dennis smiled, glancing at her. “You should see it here in winter. The yard’s all covered in snow, but the maple leaves turn this amazing gold before everything freezes—like someone spilled gold coins all over the lawn.”

Camila closed her eyes for a moment, letting the cool air wash over her, picturing the scene he described. Even without seeing it, she knew it must be beautiful.

Dennis looked at her, his eyes soft and full of warmth. “So, Camila, what do you think? Do you like it here?”

She leaned on the railing, thinking he meant just the room. She nodded honestly. “I do. It’s really nice. And from what you say, it must be gorgeous in winter.”

She let her eyes flutter shut, just listening to the leaves.

Dennis’s gaze lingered on her, growing a bit more intense. “And the house as a whole? What’s your verdict?”

Camila considered for a second, then answered honestly. “It’s wonderful. It feels just like its name—peaceful, elegant, like somewhere you actually want to come home to.”

Dennis nodded, then added, his voice a little more meaningful, “You know, you’re the first person I’ve ever brought here. If you like it, you’re welcome to come by anytime.”

She took a shaky breath, smiling a little. “Thank you for bringing me here. Thank you for letting me into your world. I’m really, really happy right now.”

Camila hadn’t planned a speech, and halfway through she wasn’t even sure what she was saying. She just hoped Dennis could see her heart.

Before she could process what happened next, he’d wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her in close.

Camila stared up at him, a little surprised. His eyes were darker now, more intense than the night sky beyond the balcony. She could see something swirling there—something that threatened to sweep her away.

He let out a low, rough laugh. “And you say you’re not good with words? Camila, that was perfect. How am I supposed to resist you when you’re this sweet?”

Before she could answer, his lips were already on hers—warm, insistent, making her forget every hesitation. The night air was cool, but his kiss was hot enough to make her forget the world, her back pressed against the railing, the maple leaves rustling above.

For the first time in a long while, Camila felt at home.