After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 189

When Catherine reached the lobby, she spotted Lawrence’s SUV waiting outside. She opened the door, slid into the passenger seat, and immediately smiled at him as she buckled her seatbelt.

“Have you been waiting long?” she asked, her voice light and sweet.

“Just got here,” Lawrence answered. He gave her a gentle smile and reached out, softly ruffling her hair. “You tired today?”

“I’m fine.” Catherine leaned into his hand for a moment, then took it in hers and gave it a squeeze. “What about you? Is the factory keeping you busy?”

“It’s manageable,” Lawrence said, sounding relaxed.

“Let’s go. We can stop and pick up some fruit on the way home,” Catherine said, cheerful and content.

When they got home, Nestor was already there. He was at the tea table, brewing fresh tea, and called out warmly to Lawrence. “Lawrence, come have some tea.”

Catherine sat down with Lawrence beside Nestor. Nestor had a few work questions, and the three of them chatted for a while. Catherine was happy just to listen. She noticed Nestor’s face looked more at ease these days. He didn’t seem so weighed down or exhausted anymore. Lawrence must have taken a lot off his plate.

Suddenly, footsteps echoed from outside. Someone was approaching. In the next moment, Waldo walked in, carrying a bottle of wine, with Shirley right behind him.

Nestor’s smile froze for a second. He glanced between Waldo and Shirley, surprised. He hadn’t known Waldo would show up.

After a beat, Nestor recovered and put his welcoming face back on. “Waldo, you’re here too. Have a seat.”

Catherine’s expression cooled. She wondered why Waldo was here at all.

Shirley stared, her face twisting in frustration. She had forgotten all about it. Catherine really did have the family heirloom bracelet now.

The jade bangle on Catherine’s wrist was their grandmother’s most treasured piece. Its clarity and color were flawless, the shine making Catherine’s skin look even paler and more delicate.

Shirley felt a wave of panic. She knew Catherine wasn’t playing around this time.

Three slaps, a million-dollar bet… tonight, Catherine was here to settle it.

“Dad…” Shirley sat down next to Nestor, biting her lip and putting on her most pitiful look. “Dad, I was just joking with Catherine the other day. Can you talk to her for me? Tell her not to take it so seriously.”