After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 261

Alice let out a quick laugh on the phone. “Nestor, there’s nothing embarrassing about being a security guard, right?”

She didn’t mean a word of it. If she could, she would have told Nestor straight up that the Gates family was a total embarrassment.

Nestor was patient. “Alice, if our families are actually going to have dinner together, don’t bring that up in front of them. There’s no shame in earning your own way.”

“I never said it was shameful. I just didn’t expect Lawrence’s dad to be a security guard, that’s all.” The way she said it made it clear she looked down on them.

Nestor let out a sigh. “Sounds like we’ll need to help them out a bit more from now on.”

The comment made Alice’s face fall. She snorted. “Didn’t you say Lawrence was so capable? Why can’t he take care of it?”

“Alright, alright. Let’s just get ready to meet the Gates family,” Nestor said, trying to smooth things over.

“Fine. Talk to Lawrence and figure out a time,” Alice replied, then hung up.

***

At The Blair Group, the meeting started at four thirty. Lawrence arrived right on time, walking into the conference room with an easy confidence. His dark gray suit fit perfectly, and he carried himself with a quiet strength that drew people’s attention.

The room was full of shareholders and senior executives, but Lawrence didn’t seem fazed at all. He took the seat beside Nestor, calm and steady, like someone who belonged at the head of the table.

Nestor kept his expression even, but inside, he was surprised. He’d felt this before—Lawrence just had something about him. There was a maturity and a sense of perspective in him that didn’t match his age. It felt like he couldn’t possibly have come from an ordinary background.

Could a security guard really raise a son like this?

Lawrence got started on his presentation about the new energy project. He talked clearly about the market potential and the risks, laying everything out so simply that everyone was paying attention. The shareholders kept asking questions, and Lawrence answered each one without missing a beat. He didn’t hesitate or stumble. The way he spoke, you just believed that whatever he promised, he would deliver.

“They’re both healthy. Still going strong,” Lawrence replied.

Nestor smiled. “Since your parents are here, how about we set up a meal for both our families?”

“Sure. I’ll check with my parents, but they’re usually free. Just let me know what works for you,” Lawrence said easily.

Nestor didn’t hesitate. “How about lunch this Saturday? We can eat out. I’ll set it up.”

“Dad, let me handle it,” Lawrence offered.

Nestor chuckled. “Alright, you and Catherine can pick the place. Just make sure it’s somewhere quiet.”

He wanted to make things comfortable for the Gates family. No fancy places, nothing that would make Lawrence’s parents feel awkward. That was important.