After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 256

“Of course, you can just call me Nicol.” He smiled, making it feel easy.

Nettie’s cheeks warmed and she nodded. “Okay, Nicol.”

After they ordered, soft music played in the background. Nettie’s phone lit up with a text from Catherine. “Nettie, are you out having dinner with Nicol?”

Nettie quickly put her phone on silent and typed back, “You’re in so much trouble when I get home.”

“Hehe, I’ll stop bothering you. Have a great date!”

Nettie pressed her lips together to hide her smile. Across the table, Nicol started talking about work. It was obvious he wanted to get to know her better.

By eight thirty, they walked side by side back to the apartment. Catherine was already there, waiting.

As soon as the door closed, Catherine practically tackled Nettie with a hug. “Come on, tell me everything. How did it go?”

“He’s really a gentleman, and honestly, he’s so warm and easy to talk to.” Nettie smiled, thinking back on the evening. She’d learned a lot about Nicol, how he joined Nexus Dynamics eight years ago and worked his way up, and even some of the dangerous situations he’d faced overseas. That part made her heart ache a little for him.

Catherine grinned. “So it’s official. You two are friends now. That’s so great.”

Even though Nettie had threatened payback, deep down, she was grateful to Catherine. Without her, Nettie probably wouldn’t have gotten this far with Nicol.

“Catherine, do you think I’m doing the right thing? I’ve never dated anyone before, and I might...” Her voice trailed off, but she couldn’t deny how much she was drawn to Nicol.

“You’re scared you’re not good enough for him, aren’t you?” Catherine squeezed her. “Don’t be. If you never try, how will you know? It’d be such a shame if you two missed out on something special.”

Nettie felt a wave of comfort wash over her. Catherine went on, “Just go with your gut. Spend time with him, be real, and let things happen. Give him a chance, and give yourself one too.”

Catherine’s face turned pink. Was it really time for their parents to meet?

“Alright, I’d love to meet your dad,” she said. She’d seen Patrick before, but they’d never been formally introduced.

“My flight’s early tomorrow. See you then.”

“I miss you,” Catherine admitted softly.

Lawrence’s voice was warm and gentle. “I miss you too. See you tomorrow.”

She smiled, heart full. “Okay, see you tomorrow.”