Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 66

A little while later, Jordan Smith finally found some relief in his leg.

When he stood up, he didn’t bother to say thank you, as if helping him out was just Camila Davis’s job and nothing more.

Camila didn’t expect any gratitude anyway. Once she’d packed up her things, she took Lillian’s hand and headed out.

The memorial service dragged on until noon.

As soon as the last guest left, Jordan’s phone started ringing.

His features softened at the sight of the caller ID, and he stepped outside to answer, a bit of warmth in his usually reserved tone.

“Sandra…”

Even from a distance, Camila could make out the name he called.

She couldn’t help but smile—though not out of happiness.

Back then, whenever she called, he either ignored her or took ages to respond. Now, hearing Sandra Taylor’s name, he picked up instantly, as if afraid to keep her waiting.

So it turns out he was never really too busy—he was just used to brushing her off.

Camila looked away, not intending to linger any longer. She’d already said her goodbyes to Grandma. As for the remaining Smiths, the three of them had never hidden their dislike for her and Lillian. No point sticking around.

Outside, she pulled out her phone, opening up an app to call a cab. She was planning to take Lillian shopping for art supplies—ever since she’d received that painting, her little girl had shown a real spark of creativity, always scribbling and doodling. Camila was happy to encourage it—it was so rare for Lillian to be this passionate about something.

Just as she was about to confirm the ride, Jordan came out of the house, jacket in hand, looking like he was on his way out too.

Camila had no intention of interacting, but he approached anyway. “Come on, get in. I’ll give you a ride.”

“No need,” Camila replied without even glancing up. “We’ll get a cab.”

Earlier they’d shared a car only because everyone was watching, and she didn’t want to give the family any more ammunition to use against her. Now that the guests were gone, there was no need to pretend.

Jordan frowned. “You realize how hard it is to get a cab out here? It’s freezing, Camila. You really want Lillian standing out here in the cold with you?”

Camila’s fingers hesitated.

Grandma Smith had always loved her peace and quiet—that’s why she’d chosen a house halfway up a remote hill. Cabs rarely came out here. Even if you managed to book one, it could take half an hour or more to show up.

Seeing her waver, Jordan’s expression grew annoyed. He scooped Lillian up and headed for the car. “Stop fussing. And you can pick up my prescription while we’re out.”

He always needed meds for his leg after a treatment—no wonder he was suddenly being so accommodating. Camila nearly laughed. Every time this man softened up, it was because he wanted something.

Still, for Lillian’s sake, she got in.

The drive back was silent. The driver focused on the road, Jordan leaned back with his eyes closed, and Lillian sat between them, twisting a Rubik’s Cube with nimble fingers, totally absorbed.

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