Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 1218

Iris’s expression soured. Audrey was openly going after Walter, not even trying to hide it. Was she really staking her claim in front of everyone like this?

Iris couldn’t help feeling bitter. She’d liked Walter for years, keeping her feelings tucked away, never daring to say a word. And now this woman, who barely even knew him, was just putting it out there like it was nothing? Who did she think she was?

Audrey pretended not to notice Iris’s glare. She just kept chatting and laughing with Harden, acting like nothing was wrong.

Halfway through dinner, Audrey excused herself and headed to the restroom. She had just finished washing her hands when she saw Iris walk in behind her.

Audrey didn’t react, keeping her face calm and collected.

Iris stepped up to the mirror, pulled out her lipstick, and glanced sideways at Audrey. “Ms. Williams, you seem so lively and straightforward. I’m guessing your family raised you really well, right?”

Audrey nodded, casual. “Pretty decent, I guess. Nothing to complain about.”

Iris flicked her wrist, pretending to be careless. “So you must be someone who follows the rules?”

Audrey met her eyes and smiled, warm and easy. “Depends on what kind of rules you mean. Care to explain?”

Iris’s meaning was crystal clear. “Like, not cutting in line. Knowing how to wait your turn.”

Audrey shrugged. “If we’re talking about shopping or waiting at the bank or stuff like that, sure, I stick to the rules. But when it comes to personal things, that’s a whole different story.”

She dried her hands and tossed the paper towel away. “Anyway, I’m done. I’ll head back first.” She didn’t even look at Iris as she left.

At the door, Audrey paused, like she’d just remembered something. “Oh, by the way, Iris, I think you might have the wrong idea about me.”

Iris frowned. “Wrong idea about what?”

Audrey didn’t bother pretending to be sweet. Her smile sharpened, her tone suddenly stronger, more confident than Iris had ever heard. “I do have principles. I don’t cross any lines, and I know where the boundaries are. But honestly, Iris, you’re not in the category that I need to worry about. So, I don’t see why I should play by your rules. Wouldn’t you agree?”

Without waiting for a reply, Audrey walked out.

They all laughed. “Not at all. Come on, let’s go. Need a hand?”

They left together. As soon as they stepped outside, Audrey spotted Walter waiting for her. She couldn’t help the real smile that spread across her face.

Harden handed her over to Walter and finally relaxed. “Alright, here she is, safe and sound. We’re thinking of going out for another round. You two wanna come?”

Walter was about to answer, but Audrey beat him to it. “You guys go ahead. Walter and I have other plans tonight.”

Iris blurted out, “What plans?” She sounded a little too eager, but couldn’t help herself.

Audrey looked over, her eyes meeting Iris’s, as if she could see straight through her.

Iris tried to keep up the act in front of everyone. She forced another smile. “I just mean, Ms. Williams, you’re new to Harrisburg, right? Since everyone’s here, we could show you around.”

Audrey smiled, polite but distant. “That’s really sweet, but there will be plenty of time for that. Tonight, we really do have something else to do.”