Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 787

Walter Wilson finally seemed to calm down after hearing that, and his tone softened. “In that case, I’ll just have to wait and see.”

Truth be told, the two men weren’t close enough to share everything with each other. Once Walter got the answer he wanted, he excused himself and walked away.

Not long after he left, a shadow fell across Dennis Williams. He glanced up and saw Eric Morris standing before him.

Dennis gave a polite nod in greeting. The place was crowded tonight, and beyond a few pleasantries, there wasn’t much time for conversation.

But now, Eric Morris stepped right up to him and smiled warmly. “Mr. Williams, do you have a moment to indulge an old man in a game of chess?”

“It would be my pleasure,” Dennis replied cordially.

Eric led him into the main hall. They sat down opposite each other, and as Eric opened the chess set and started arranging the pieces, he said, “We only met briefly a few times in Harrisburg, always in passing. We never had the chance to really talk. Tonight seems like a good opportunity.”

Dennis listened quietly, waiting for him to continue.

Eric’s gaze grew more pointed. “Tell me, Mr. Williams—are you serious about Camila?”

Dennis had already guessed where this was going. He answered with calm sincerity, “I’ve never done anything half-hearted in my life.”

“Oh?” Eric arched a brow. “And how long will that take? Besides, there are plenty of people in Cabinda who doubt the two of you. These days, Camila faces all sorts of rumors and slander. What do you plan to do about that? You’re an impressive young man, I’ll grant you that, but my dear protégé is second to none. Outsiders say she’s not good enough for you, but in our eyes, there’s no one worthy of her!”

His tone was sharp at the end, as if speaking up for all the hurt Camila had suffered lately.

Dennis understood, and didn’t take offense. He knew well that to her family, Camila was precious beyond measure. She was just as precious in his own eyes.

He smiled. “You and I see things the same way. It takes someone with real discernment to appreciate how remarkable Camila is. As for the gossip outside—soon enough, it’ll all die down.”

He looked Eric straight in the eye, a knowing glint in his own. “And truthfully, you’ve already done plenty to protect her. From here on out, let me take care of the rest.”