That old, almost forgotten feeling crept up on her, making her nose tingle and her throat tighten just a bit.
“Mom, you should eat more too,” Catherine said, turning to Adelina with a gentle smile.
Adelina beamed back at her. “Alright, I will.”
When Adelina stepped out to take a call and Susan was busy in the kitchen, Catherine quickly snuck some of her chicken into Lawrence’s bowl, giving him a pleading look. She just couldn’t eat another bite.
Lawrence caught her eye and tried not to laugh, his expression softening with affection. He quietly ate the chicken she’d given him, acting like nothing happened.
Catherine flashed him a grateful wink. In return, Lawrence picked out the tenderest greens and placed them into her bowl.
Adelina walked back in right then and caught them in the act. Seeing how well the two got along made her heart swell with happiness.
Still, something Susan had mentioned recently kept bothering her. While tidying up for Lawrence, Susan had noticed that he and Catherine were still sleeping in separate rooms. They’d been married for over a month now, yet they were still apart at night? The thought had been stuck in Adelina’s mind for days.
But looking at how sweet they were with each other, their relationship seemed strong and genuine.
Suddenly a strange thought popped into her head. Was it possible Lawrence had… issues in that area? She shook her head right away. Lawrence grew up in the military, he was as healthy as could be. It probably just came down to the fact that they’d gotten married in a rush, and their feelings were still catching up. They just needed a little more time.
After dinner, Catherine and Adelina settled onto the couch for a chat while Lawrence offered to help Susan clear the table.
Adelina looked over at Catherine, a note of pride in her voice. “Catherine, Lawrence might seem a bit quiet and reserved, but his heart is warm and he really knows how to care for someone. If he ever does something that upsets you, just let me know and I’ll straighten him out.”
Watching Lawrence wipe down the table, Catherine felt a warm, sweet happiness bloom inside her. This family might not be rich, but they made up for it in kindness and warmth.
“He treats me really well, Mom. We’re happy,” Catherine said, her smile soft and content.
Lawrence set his iPad aside and looked at her. Her hair was loose over her shoulders, and her off-white nightgown brushed her knees, showing off her smooth, pale legs. The neckline was a little loose, hinting at her delicate collarbones and the soft curve of her chest.
Lawrence’s gaze darkened just a little, and he swallowed. “What do you feel like watching?”
Catherine didn’t hesitate. “That new horror movie everyone’s talking about.”
Lawrence couldn’t help but laugh. “Are you sure?”
Catherine puffed out her cheeks. “I’m not scared if you’re with me.”
He looked at her, understanding exactly what she was up to, a small smile tugging at his lips.
“Alright, tell me the title.”

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms
Im stiĺl waiting for the update, thank you....
I’m glad I hung in there for all 368 chapters. This was a really good story!...
They are on a base. Alice and Shirley need to be approved and sponsored to enter. What are they worried for? Can random people just come on base?...
I’m glad the tech team has a conscience. I was also thinking the same thing about the team being the one to build it because Shirley doesn’t code anything....
This hearing is being drug out like one in real life....
How does Shirley think she can dismiss and call witnesses at will in the courtroom, telling Amy that she could leave now?...
The audacity. She just insulted his deceased wife and their child, but she wants justice? 🤣🤣...
This is the most delusional couple. Making up slights against themselves from people who couldn’t care less. Twisting everything into their own narrative of what they think and feel....
Finally. It’s all out there....
I hope he remembers to stop access to anything Alice currently has the rights to take....