After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 248

“It looks like he really gets girls. He knew we’d be into Japanese food.” Catherine smiled as she picked up a piece of sushi and popped it into her mouth.

The two of them didn’t hold back. They devoured their late-night feast, chatting and laughing as the hours slipped by.

Later, when they’d retreated to their own rooms for the night, Catherine sent Lawrence a quick message to check in.

I just got to Harrisburg. Finished meeting with a client.

Where are you staying?

At my dad’s place.

Okay. Rest well. Goodnight.

Harrisburg at night was almost otherworldly. Lawrence’s car glided down a wide, silent road lined with towering trees. The streetlights spilled soft, dappled light across the pavement, making everything feel calm and a little solemn.

He rolled past the first checkpoint. The guard stood tall, rifle in hand, but as soon as he recognized Lawrence, he saluted and let him through. A few minutes later, the second checkpoint did the same. No one even bothered to check his ID. Lawrence’s name carried enough weight in this place.

This was a private, high-security neighborhood, reserved for retired officials who had made significant contributions to the country. Only a select few could call it home.

Lawrence’s father, Patrick, was one of them. He’d retired as a four-star general, a man used to command and respect.

Lawrence finally pulled up in front of a plain three-story house. The yard was neat, with carefully tended flowers and shrubs, the kind of place that felt quietly strict and orderly.

Stepping out of the car, Lawrence paused for a moment, taking in the familiar house. He drew a slow breath, then walked up to the door.

“You came alone? You didn’t bring Catherine?” Patrick’s tone softened a little.

Lawrence shook his head. “This trip’s just for work. Catherine stayed behind.”

Patrick’s disappointment was obvious. He hadn’t seen Catherine since their last meeting at the science institute, almost a month ago.

“Dad, give me another month. I’ll set up a dinner so you can meet Catherine’s father. Both families, sitting down together.”

Patrick took off his glasses and gestured to the sofa. “I heard you’re working at The Blair Group now. Nothing going on at Nexus Dynamics?”

Lawrence sat down, answering honestly. “I’m helping Nestor at his company. I want to prove myself at The Blair Group, to earn Nestor’s respect because of what I can do, not just because I’m your son.”