Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 1280

Harden seemed unusually cheerful as he explained, “The Jones family just scored a big contract, all thanks to Walter and Audrey making the right introductions. So tonight, I’m really here to thank them.”

That finally made sense to Iris, but she couldn’t help rolling her eyes inside. Audrey? What did she know about deals like this? She didn’t have the family background or connections. If the Jones family got any resources, it was definitely because of Walter.

Still, listening to Harden talk, Iris couldn’t help but think the Carter family would have benefited much more from a deal like this. The Jones family hardly needed another win.

Her mood soured even more when she realized this wasn’t just a casual dinner. These three were here to celebrate. She kept her feelings under wraps, though, and forced a smile. “Congratulations, Harden. You should really give it your all. Don’t let Walter down after he put his trust in you.”

Then she turned to Walter, her voice sweet and playful. “Walter, you have to help me out next time too. You know I’m managing The Smith Group now. Don’t just give all the good stuff to Harden.”

It sounded like a joke, but she was angling for favors.

Walter barely reacted, his tone flat. “If something comes up, I’ll let you know.”

Audrey caught the exchange and had to fight back a laugh. The Carter family’s business wasn’t even second-rate. Even if they wanted a project like this, would anyone actually want to work with them? Harden only got the opportunity because of their introductions, and because The Wilson Group was involved. The Jones family had the right qualifications and Harden proved himself.

Honestly, what did the Carters have to offer? Iris was definitely overestimating herself.

Audrey didn’t bother saying anything. The meal went smoothly enough for everyone except Iris, who was totally preoccupied. The only thing on her mind was how to marry into the Wilson family. If she pulled that off, what couldn’t the Carter family achieve? With The Wilson Group’s support, maybe the Carters could actually make it into Harrisburg’s top tier.

She thought about her upcoming birthday party. If she needed to, she could make her move that night. If things went far enough, there’d be no turning back.

Audrey noticed the scheming look on Iris’s face. It was almost too obvious. If Iris was going to set a trap, the birthday party would be her best shot. Audrey would have to stay on guard.

After dinner, Harden came back from paying the bill, and everyone started getting ready to leave. Iris glanced over and saw how close Audrey and Walter were standing, and jealousy burned in her chest.

Before anyone could leave, she spoke up. “It’s still early. Harden, Walter, why don’t we go out for another round? Night just got a new bartender, and I heard they’re really good. We should check it out together.”

Harden followed, hopping into his own car. Iris watched them go, her eyes stinging. She took a few deep breaths, blinking back tears, and tried to convince herself to hold on a little longer. Maybe everything would change after the party.

***

Once Audrey and Walter got into the car, she finally had a chance to ask, “Are you and the Carter family that close?”

Walter was a little surprised, but then he remembered how Iris had tried to drag Audrey into her drama before. He thought he understood now.

“We’re fine, I guess. On good terms, at least on the surface. We only really connected with the Carters because of Abbott. He was the one who first brought Iris into our circle. Later, a few of the Carters did some business with us. Abbott and Iris are close, so he always brought her to our gatherings. After a while, everyone just got used to her being around. As for the older generation, we run into them at events and banquets in Harrisburg sometimes.”

Walter didn’t get into the details. The truth was, the Carters hadn’t originally been in their league. Even among wealthy families, there’s a hierarchy. In Harrisburg, the Smith family used to be on top, then the Wilsons, then the Joneses. The Carters weren’t even considered fifth or sixth tier.

Really, it was just Abbott bringing Iris into their group that let her family rise a bit. Everyone else just went along with it out of respect for Abbott.