Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 68

Camila Davis never expected such high praise coming her way.

Surprised, yes—but secretly thrilled!

She believed every word. After all, the guy was an art teacher; his eye for talent had to be sharper than hers.

And he clearly cherished talent, too. Instead of rushing off, he actually stuck around to give Lillian a few tips.

Lillian, her little one, was so focused—absorbing every bit of advice like a sponge. Every time the teacher pointed out something, she got it, easy as pie.

Watching this, the young teacher almost turned green with envy. He could only wish he had more to teach this little girl… Who knows—maybe one day, she’d go on to become a celebrated artist, and he’d be able to say he was her first mentor.

Later that day, Lillian finished her very first painting.

The teacher picked it up, gave it another round of heartfelt praise, and only then did he finally lead the rest of the kids away—reluctant to leave, honestly.

Camila’s heart swelled with gratitude. She scooped up her daughter, peppering her cheeks with kisses. “Sweetheart, you’re amazing! Even the teacher says your painting is wonderful!”

Lillian basked in the praise, cheeks flushed, grinning shyly. She looked so adorable, Camila thought her heart might just melt.

Right then and there, Camila promised herself: she’d frame this painting the moment they got home. After all, it was Lillian’s first piece of art—definitely worth remembering.

So before heading home, Camila stopped by a craft store and picked up several picture frames.

Lillian absolutely loved her first masterpiece. Once it was framed, she hugged it tight and wouldn’t let go.

That evening, when Jordan Smith got home from work, Lillian’s little legs scampered over to him. She held out her framed painting like a precious treasure. “Daddy… look!”

“Hm? What’s this?” Jordan asked, taking it from her.

Lillian piped up, her voice sweet and tiny, “Picture… Lillian painted it!”

Jordan frowned, glancing at her. “You made this?”

Lillian nodded eagerly, eyes shining, waiting for his praise.

But Jordan couldn’t bring himself to say anything nice.

To him, it looked like a wild mess of scribbles—no rhyme, no reason, just chaos. It didn’t make sense to his taste at all. Colors everywhere, no structure, just… abstract.

Camila happened to come downstairs right at that moment.

Jordan immediately turned to her, “Who taught her this? If she wants to learn to paint, shouldn’t she start with the basics?”

His tone said it all—he was unimpressed, maybe even annoyed.

Lillian’s face fell, disappointment written all over her.

Camila marched over, took the painting back, and shot Jordan a frosty glare. “Even the art teacher said Lillian did wonderful work. Why are you the only one who has a problem with it?”

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