After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 207

“Shirley, seriously, the world doesn’t revolve around Waldo,” Catherine said, letting out a short laugh. “The Blair Group’s future is in Dad’s own hands, not his.”

Shirley stared at her phone, totally stunned. “Wait, are you saying Dad has someone else to back him up?”

Catherine sighed. “And there’s you. I get that you don’t want to help Dad’s company, but instead you’re making things worse, spreading gossip and kicking him while he’s down. Shirley, are you sure you’re even Dad’s real daughter?” Her tone was cutting, almost mocking.

Shirley’s face went pale in an instant. She squeezed her phone so tight her knuckles turned white. “Catherine, what are you talking about? Of course I’m Dad’s daughter,” she shot back, her voice trembling. “This whole mess was started by your husband. Don’t expect me to clean up after you two.”

Before Shirley could say anything else, Catherine hung up.

Shirley stood there, clutching her phone, her face drained of color. Even her fingers shook. She knew Catherine hadn’t meant anything by it, just spoke without thinking. But ever since Shirley found out the truth about her own background, even a careless comment like that was enough to make her panic.

No. No one could find out who she really was. Not yet. Not before she claimed her share of The Blair Group’s inheritance.

***

At The Blair Group’s office, Nestor had just finished a call with someone from Nexus Dynamics. They wanted him over at three to talk about the acquisition.

He could hardly believe how quickly Nexus Dynamics was moving. There was barely any time to catch his breath and now they wanted to start negotiations the very same day.

Luckily, Lawrence was way ahead of him. He had already pulled together everything they’d need for the meeting.

Nestor was impressed. He’d only hung up ten minutes ago, but Lawrence already had all the core documents ready to go. Sometimes, Nestor wondered if Lawrence was some kind of lucky charm for the company. Ever since Lawrence joined, things had only gotten better.

“Dad, we’re all set. We can head out now,” Lawrence said, sounding calm.

All the way up, Nestor’s nerves were on edge. The place had an overwhelming, high-pressure feel, and the thought of negotiating with Magee only made it worse.

He glanced at Lawrence again, noticing how steady and unhurried his steps were. Lawrence didn’t look nervous at all, just calm and collected.

Nestor couldn’t help but admire him. Lawrence was clearly built for big moments like this. His confidence and inner strength were stronger than Nestor’s own. Maybe it was the military background. He didn’t have much money, but he had guts and composure you didn’t see every day.

“Nestor, Lawrence, please wait here,” Henry said as he walked over. When he saw Lawrence, his whole attitude changed. His eyes dropped and he looked genuinely respectful.

Nestor didn’t notice, too busy going over the negotiation in his head.

Five minutes later, Magee strode in with two associates, grinning as he held out his hand. “Nestor, welcome, glad you could make it.”