Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 1279

Harden lived up to everyone’s expectations, grinning from ear to ear, looking totally on top of the world. “You can’t say no to this. Even my super strict dad actually praised me for once. So, we’re going out for dinner tonight, no excuses.”

“Fine by me. I haven’t figured out what to eat anyway. It’s your treat then,” Walter said, easygoing as ever. He and Harden were close, so there was no need for formalities.

It was just about time to clock out. Walter tidied up his paperwork and got ready to head out with Audrey and Harden.

That’s when his secretary popped in to let him know Iris had arrived.

The three of them exchanged surprised looks. Since they were heading out, they just walked together. As soon as they left the office, they spotted Iris waiting for Walter.

Iris’s eyes went straight to Audrey. For a second, jealousy pricked at her, but she hid it with a practiced, sweet smile as she turned to Walter.

“Iris, what brings you here?” Harden asked first, polite even though he wasn’t her biggest fan.

Iris smiled softly. “My birthday’s coming up. Did you forget? We always celebrate together, don’t we? I’m thinking of throwing a party this year.”

She looked at Walter, her eyes full of hope. “Walter, you’ll come, right?”

It wasn’t just her idea. The Carter family was all for it too. Iris wasn’t getting any younger, and they figured this was the perfect chance to nudge her toward a match. The Wilson family was a perfect fit.

Iris had everything mapped out. On her birthday, she’d stick close to Leda, making it look like she was already part of the Wilson family. Anyone else interested in Walter would definitely back off. She’d even decided she was going to confess to Walter that night. She wanted him to know how she felt, and she wasn’t going to waste any more time.

Harden grinned. “Wow, Iris, a little double standard here, huh? Everyone else gets a group message, but Walter gets a personal invitation?”

Iris just smiled. “I was in the neighborhood. If it bothers you, I can invite you in person now, too.”

Harden waved it off. “Alright, alright, we’ll be there.”

Iris turned her attention to Walter, waiting for his reply.

Walter nodded. “Yeah, I’ll make time.”

He didn’t overthink it. They’d all known each other for years. It was just a birthday party.

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