After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 162

"Okay, I'll wait for you." Catherine smiled, her lips curving softly.

At five thirty, she spotted Lawrence's car outside the lobby. She opened the door, slid in, and said, "Let's stop by the mall and pick up some gifts for home."

"Sure," Lawrence replied, giving her a nod.

***

At the Blair Estate, Shirley had already come home. She had just finished telling Alice about her plan, and Alice looked pretty satisfied.

"Not bad. Let's see if Catherine and Lawrence can handle this test. I just can't warm up to that Lawrence," Alice said, her tone sharp.

"Catherine's husband is way too capable. It's not really good for us," Shirley replied, her eyes glinting with calculation.

Just then, Nestor's car pulled in. Alice stood up, determination in her eyes. "I need to make sure your dad stays tough on this. He can't go easy."

Alice headed downstairs first. She met Nestor at the door with a bright smile and took his suit jacket. "Nestor, welcome home. I made your favorite braised pork tonight."

Nestor looked pleased. Alice turned serious. "Shirley told me you're planning on testing Lawrence. I think that's the right thing to do."

Nestor nodded. "If he wants to be my son-in-law, he has to prove himself. It's not just about what he can do at work. His character matters too."

"Exactly," Alice chimed in. "We're not just any family. Our son-in-law's character and abilities are tied to our future and Catherine's happiness. Nestor, you really have to be strict. Don't let anything slide."

"I know what I'm doing," Nestor said, settling onto the sofa and pouring himself some tea.

Alice couldn't help but feel pleased. In Nestor's eyes, Lawrence was still an outsider.

No matter how the test went, Catherine was bound to make a scene. If things blew up between her and Nestor, Alice honestly wouldn't mind at all.

Just then, someone started coming down the stairs. All eyes turned to see Shirley, dressed to the nines.

Alice paused, a little surprised. Why did Shirley get all dressed up again?

Catherine glanced up, her face instantly turning cold. Annoyance flickered in her eyes.

Did Shirley have to turn on the charm for every man she saw?

Shirley was wearing a long, strappy dress, her makeup looking freshly done. She walked down the stairs slowly, pretending to be surprised. "Oh, you’re here."

Nestor and Lawrence were already heading to the dining table. Alice turned to Catherine. "You really should've brought Lawrence home for dinner sooner. Your dad's been waiting."

Catherine glanced at Nestor and noticed how much warmer he seemed toward Lawrence tonight. Was it possible they were actually going to talk about the wedding? She pushed aside her uneasiness and started to feel a flicker of hope.