Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 1242

Charlotte watched the young man on the screen. He was holding a coat—Audrey’s coat. She recognized it right away and could tell from the background he’d just brought it out from the house.

Her eyes warmed with a smile as she spoke to Walter. “Walter, we meet again. No need to be so formal. You’re friends with Dennis and Audrey, so just call me Camila. Audrey’s been in Harrisburg recently, and I know she’s probably caused you some trouble. She told me you’ve been looking out for her, and having you there really puts us at ease.”

Walter felt a little embarrassed by the compliment. Honestly, it was usually Audrey who came to find him, and most of the time, they just went out together. If anyone was doing the looking after, it hardly felt like him. Still, he knew this was what Audrey had told her family, so he just smiled and replied, “It’s nothing, really. You’re too kind.”

Camila laughed. “Kind or not, I know Audrey too well. She’s totally spoiled by us. Sometimes she can be a bit too used to getting her way, so thank you for your patience.”

Walter shook his head. “Not at all. Audrey’s actually really sweet. She’s never been difficult, and she’s fantastic at her job. You don’t need to worry about her at all.”

He wasn’t just saying that to be polite. He really meant it. Sure, Audrey sometimes pouted or tried to coax him into doing things, but her requests were always reasonable, and there was something about her that made it impossible to say no. Walter honestly didn’t mind it one bit.

Seeing how well the two of them got along, Camila finally relaxed. Since everyone on the call was a close friend or family, the phone was passed around after she finished talking to her daughter.

Next, Sarah Brown got the phone. She was just as concerned about Audrey and immediately launched into a long, lively conversation. The two of them always had plenty to talk about.

Eventually, the phone made its way back to Camila.

“Audrey, your heart medication must be running low, right? I’ll have someone drop off more in a couple of days. Make sure you pick it up. Once you get it, split it up—keep some with you, some in your car, some at the office. Basically, keep it somewhere easy to reach, just in case.”

Camila sounded serious as she gave her instructions. She cared for Audrey like she was her own daughter.

Audrey understood the concern. She gave a bright smile. “I will. Thank you, Camila!”

Camila waved with a grin. “We’ve been on this call long enough. Let’s stop here for tonight and let you continue having fun. I’ll hang up now. Bye!”

She knew all about Audrey’s feelings for Walter, and she wasn’t about to stick around and be a third wheel when the two finally had some alone time.

But Walter was looking at her with genuine worry. “We’ve been out here a while, and you said it yourself, you’re sensitive to the cold. I don’t want you getting sick. If something happens tomorrow, I’d have a lot of explaining to do to your family in Cabinda.”

He wasn’t being harsh, and when he saw how much she wanted to stay, he softened a little more. “If you still want to do fireworks, I can take you to the greenhouse. My mom’s greenhouse has climate control. It’s warm, and the atmosphere is really nice.”

Audrey saw how much he cared, and her reluctance melted away. She nodded, beaming. “Alright, let’s go to the greenhouse and finish the fireworks!”

She started to reach for their things, but Walter was faster, grabbing everything himself. “I’ve got it. Let’s go.”

He led the way, and Audrey followed right behind.

As soon as they stepped inside, Audrey’s attention was caught by all the flowers. Leda loved arranging flowers and was amazing at growing them. She had turned the glass greenhouse into something truly special.

There were all kinds of rare and beautiful plants inside. The place was absolutely gorgeous and vibrant. No girl could resist the charm of fresh flowers.