Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 813

Natalie froze, caught off guard for a moment.

Tonight’s ball was organized by the Mark family, one of the city’s elite old-money families. The Marks and the Lees were distantly related by marriage, which explained why Cynthia Lee—famed for her charm in their circle—had been invited to lead the opening dance.

But…

Natalie glanced anxiously at the crowd. In this situation, could she really go up and ask Mr. Williams for the first dance? What were the chances he’d even agree? Honestly, being turned down seemed far more likely.

As Cynthia’s closest friend, Natalie still tried to dissuade her. “Nancy, maybe you shouldn’t go. You’ve seen how much Mr. Williams dotes on Camila Davis. Do you really think he’d say yes to anyone else? If he turns you down in front of everyone, it’ll just be… humiliating.”

Cynthia took it all in stride, giving a self-assured smile. “Don’t worry. I’ll find a way to make him say yes!”

Seeing how determined she was, Natalie could only sigh and let her be.

She watched as Cynthia Lee strode confidently toward the elder Mr. Williams.

Cynthia had known he’d be attending tonight—after all, she’d sent him the invitation herself. But now, she feigned surprise, her eyes lighting up as she approached. “Oh my, I thought I was seeing things! I can’t believe you really came!”

She slipped up beside him, as sweet and attentive as a favorite granddaughter. “Grandpa Williams, you didn’t even let us know you’d be here! How lonely to stand all by yourself. Dennis and the others are having a great time over there. I was headed that way to say hello—why don’t you come with me? Mrs. Molly, Mr. Parsons, and Mr. Sanders are all there too.”

Of course, the elder Mr. Williams knew where the action was, but he’d had no intention of joining in. Cynthia’s voice, however, was loud and clear—so much so that several people turned to look their way. Even Dennis Williams and his group, standing not far off, caught every word.

Now, whether he wanted to or not, the elder Mr. Williams had little choice but to go along.

Camila Davis also saw Cynthia Lee at his side. She didn’t need Dennis to tell her who the elderly man was—she could guess. Her nerves tightened, her whole body tensing up. She wasn’t ready for this meeting. All she knew was that he’d always disapproved of her relationship with Dennis Williams.

What would he say when he came over? Camila’s mind raced with anxious thoughts as she stole glances at the old man. He was exactly as she’d pictured: an imposing presence, stern but elegant, with an air of stubbornness and pride etched into his features. He looked like someone not easily persuaded.

Her anxiety only grew.

Dennis noticed, gently squeezing her hand in reassurance, his warmth silently urging her not to worry. Camila took a steadying breath, doing her best to remain calm.

Beside them, Larry Adams gave a low, annoyed tsk. “Great. The old tyrant’s here too,” he muttered under his breath.

Dennis barely glanced her way. He looked at his grandfather and called out, “Grandpa.”

Mr. Williams, who’d been chatting with Hamlin Sanders, and Mr. and Mrs. Davis, turned at Dennis’s voice.

Before the elder Mr. Williams could respond, Eric Morris’s expression soured—so this was the stubborn old man who disapproved of his favorite protégé? He really did look as hard and unyielding as a boulder. Eric made no effort to hide his disapproval, shooting the old man a rather obvious glare.

The elder Mr. Williams noticed, his brows knitting in faint annoyance, but he kept his composure and nodded politely, greeting the group.

He then turned to Hamlin Sanders and the others, his demeanor much warmer than before. “Mr. Sanders, Mr. Parsons—it’s been too long.”

Hamlin Sanders, Neville Parsons, and Mrs. Molly had all crossed paths with him at previous gatherings. They’d also heard rumors about his disapproval of Camila, but for now they maintained a cordial front.

“It’s been quite some time, Mr. Williams. How have you been lately?”

Cynthia Lee stood by, unwilling to let herself be ignored. She spoke up again, her tone polite but insistent. “It’s rare to see the three of you together at an event like this. What a coincidence! I’m truly honored to meet you all tonight.”