After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 27

Waldo was definitely drunk, but he hadn’t lost control. He rubbed his forehead and pushed himself upright. “Shirley, thanks for helping me out. You should head home now.”

Shirley’s hand froze in the air. She forced herself to keep smiling. “Waldo, you’re in no shape to be left alone. How could I just go?”

He was this out of it and still turning her down?

“Waldo...” Shirley tried one more time.

“I’m tired. I just want to be alone.” He waved her off, making it clear he wanted her to leave.

Shirley pressed her lips together and bit down hard. She knew staying any longer would only embarrass her.

“Alright then... get some rest, Waldo. I’ll come check on you tomorrow,” she managed, forcing a smile before turning away. Her heels clicked as she left.

Once she was back in her car, Shirley bit her lip until it hurt.

Catherine, maybe I lost to you this time, but it won’t last. Soon, everyone will see how brilliant I am. I’ll be at the top of my field, soaking in all the admiration and praise.

And you? Catherine, you’ll just marry some broke loser and spend your days struggling at the bottom.

When that day comes, you’ll be nothing but a pitiful little ant, looking up at me in all my glory.

I’ll make sure you spend this whole life chasing after me, never even coming close.

The next morning, sunlight spilled over the grass outside. The banyan tree in the yard looked especially lush.

Upstairs in the master bedroom, Catherine had been awake for a while. She lay there, staring at the unfamiliar ceiling, thinking about Lawrence’s handsome, strong face.

She couldn’t help but smile.

After a lazy stretch, she got up, washed her face, and headed downstairs. When she reached the top of the stairs, the smell of breakfast drifted up from the kitchen.

They sat down across from each other. Lawrence glanced at her. “I have to head out soon. If you want something special for lunch, I can have it brought back for you.”

“You’re going to work?” Catherine asked, suddenly remembering he was an engineer.

“Yeah, work,” he said with a nod.

“You don’t need to worry about me.” Catherine smiled. “I’m meeting a friend for lunch, so go do your thing.”

Lawrence just nodded, not prying any further. “Alright. If you need anything, just call.”

He didn’t push or hover, and Catherine loved that. She liked having her own space while still knowing he cared.

“Okay.” Catherine smiled, took a bite of her egg, and her eyes lit up. “Wow, this is really good. You can actually cook.”

Lawrence watched her enjoy her breakfast, and a hint of a smile flickered in his eyes.