After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 340

Something felt off, like things were slipping out of her control, but she couldn’t quite put her finger on what it was. Before she could think more about it, Garnett pulled her in, grinning. “Babe, tonight, I promise I’ll make it unforgettable.”

Alice melted a little, her worries fading away under the warmth of his words and the way he held her close.

***

Friday morning outside the courthouse was thick with tension. Reporters had swarmed the steps, cameras and microphones everywhere, all pointed at the two groups arriving. The lawsuit between two tech giants was about to kick off, and everyone who mattered was here.

Catherine arrived with Lawrence at her side. She wore a sharp business suit, her expression calm and steady, her eyes shining with confidence. She looked like she belonged here, ready for whatever came next.

A black Bentley rolled to a stop. Catherine paused, watching as a bodyguard opened the car door. Shirley stepped out in a crisp white suit, with Waldo right behind her. The two teams faced off right there on the courthouse steps, tension crackling between them.

Their lawyers arrived next, creating a standoff that felt almost physical. Sunlight glared off the concrete, but the air between the groups was icy.

Shirley shot Catherine a look full of contempt and barely hidden anger. Waldo stood with one hand in his pocket, the other arm linked with Shirley’s, but his eyes were locked on Catherine. She stood tall, elegant in dark gray, exuding quiet strength and confidence. By her side, Lawrence’s tall frame was a steady, commanding presence.

“Catherine, I hope we can end this with some dignity. No need to make it uglier than it has to be,” Waldo said, raising an eyebrow.

Catherine’s voice was cool and clear. “I don’t think this will end so easily. I won’t back down until I get what I deserve.”

Shirley let out a sharp laugh. “Catherine, I should be the one saying that. After everything you’ve accused me of, don’t expect me to just let it go.”

Nicol checked his watch and smiled. “We’re good. Come on.”

Nettie hurried to catch up, and just as they reached the steps, Nicol reached back to take her hand. “There’s a lot of stairs. Let me help you, so you don’t trip.”

Nettie’s heart fluttered, and the warmth of his hand sent a pink flush to her cheeks.

At 9:10, everyone was seated. Catherine took her place at the plaintiff’s table, while Shirley sat across the aisle with the defendants. Just being called a defendant made Shirley’s blood boil. She could hardly stand the shame of it.

Then, the judge’s gavel fell, and the trial began.