After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 165

Nestor glanced at Catherine before turning back to Lawrence. “You and Catherine rushed into this marriage. You barely know each other. Sure, you’re good at running the company, but I need to know you have more than just skills. I have to see that you have the right character, the sense of responsibility, and loyalty it takes for me to trust you with both Catherine and the company.”

Lawrence’s face stayed calm, though his eyes grew darker. “What do you want me to do, Dad?”

Catherine’s heart was in her throat. What kind of test was her father planning for Lawrence this time?

Alice sat to the side, practically smirking, obviously enjoying every second. After watching Catherine and Lawrence acting all lovey-dovey, she’d been waiting for Nestor to step in and shake things up.

Nestor kept his eyes locked on Lawrence. His voice was serious as he said, “I’ve decided on a three-month trial period. For these three months, Lawrence, you’ll move into the company apartment so you can focus all your energy on work. Catherine, you’ll move back home. I haven’t been feeling great lately, and I want you to take care of me.”

Catherine felt like her mind was buzzing. Wait, what? After all that, her dad wanted to force her and Lawrence to live apart?

“Dad, how is this a test? You’re just trying to split us up,” Catherine protested, unable to hold back.

“Catherine.” Nestor’s tone was stern, cutting her off. “I’m doing this for your own good.”

“This is ridiculous. We’re married. Why would you test us with something as ridiculous as making us live apart?” Catherine’s eyes filled with tears. “I don’t agree.”

“Catherine, calm down,” Shirley said smoothly from across the table. “Dad just wants the best for you. Three months will pass before you know it. If Lawrence really cares about you, a little test like this shouldn’t be a problem, right?” She looked over at Lawrence. “Isn’t that right, Lawrence?”

Alice jumped in, “Catherine, your dad means well. If Lawrence is really serious about you, what’s he got to worry about? And let’s not forget, your dad has been looking after you for twenty-four years. It hasn’t been easy.”

Catherine stared at the mother and daughter, their voices blending together like they’d rehearsed this. In that moment, it clicked. This whole test had to be their idea.

Lawrence’s voice turned steady and strong. “But whether Catherine moves back home or not, that should be her choice. She’s my wife, and she’s your daughter. I hope you can respect what she wants.”

Nestor looked stunned again. Even now, Lawrence’s first thought was Catherine’s feelings and what was best for her?

A wave of warmth rushed through Catherine. Lawrence always put her first, always thought about what she needed, even if it meant going along with this unfair test.

Shirley scowled, barely hiding her annoyance, and tugged at Alice’s sleeve.

Alice jumped in quickly, “We just worry about Catherine being out there on her own. This is her home. And with Nestor not feeling well, having Catherine back would really make us happy.”

Catherine’s eyes swept over Alice’s fake smile and caught the smug glint in Shirley’s eyes. Frustration and anger churned inside her, rising up like a storm.