After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 259

Shirley glanced at Catherine, her voice rising just enough to draw attention. “Catherine, honestly, you and Lawrence should be ashamed. Patrick’s not young anymore, and you’ve still got him working security at the institute. At his age, he should be home, taking it easy, enjoying life.”

Her words were perfectly pitched. A few people walking by turned their heads to see what was going on.

Catherine kept her cool and was about to reply, but Patrick let out a soft chuckle. “If I stayed home, I’d just be bored. I like keeping busy. It’s really no trouble.”

Shirley opened her mouth to argue, but Catherine shot her a look that said enough. Then she turned to Patrick, her tone gentle. “Dad, how about we go up to my office and have some tea?”

“I won’t be getting in your way, will I?” Patrick asked.

“Not at all. I’m not busy right now.” Catherine smiled and led him toward the elevators.

Just then, Shirley’s old classmate rushed over, waving at her. “Shirley, you made it.”

Shirley remembered she had something technical she needed help with, so she followed him across the street to a coffee shop.

In Catherine’s office, Patrick took a sip of tea and stood by the big window, looking out at the city. He turned to her and asked, “Nexus Dynamics is treating you well, right?”

Catherine smiled and nodded. “Don’t worry, Dad. They treat me like family. I’m really happy here.”

“That’s good to hear,” Patrick said, a smile touching his lips.

Right then, Catherine’s assistant walked in carrying a stack of documents. She paused, surprised to see someone else in the room. “Catherine, you have company. Should I reschedule your meeting at ten-thirty?”

Catherine had forgotten all about the meeting. She was just about to ask her assistant to push it back when Patrick spoke first. “Catherine, I only stopped by to see you. You get back to work. Let’s have dinner together tonight.”

Catherine let out a quiet sigh of relief, her smile gentle. “You’re welcome, Dad.”

She didn’t dare tell him there was a full ten million in the card. She knew he’d never accept it if he found out.

After a few more words, Patrick headed out. Catherine walked him to the lobby, but he told her not to see him off, saying he’d take a walk before going home.

After Catherine left, a quiet black sedan pulled up outside, followed by a dark green SUV. Patrick got into the car, pulled out the envelope, and looked at it with a fond smile. “She’s really a good kid.”

“Sir, did you get to see Catherine?”

“Yes, I did. I like her a lot.”