After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 47

"Waldo, don't cheapen the meaning of love." Catherine let out a soft laugh. "What you feel isn't love. It's just selfishness, wanting to own me."

"Catherine, I can change. Please, just give me another chance." Waldo’s voice dropped, tender in a way she hadn’t heard before. "I’ll learn to respect your choices. All of them."

"It’s too late." Catherine turned to the window, a small smile playing on her lips. "I’m in love with someone else."

"That Lawrence guy? Seriously? Catherine, you’ve only known him for a few days, and you—"

She cut him off without hesitation. "Ever heard of love at first sight?" Her voice was sure and steady. "That’s what it is for me. I fell for him the moment I met him."

Waldo’s tone sharpened. "Catherine, come on. Are you really going to fall for someone like that? Is he even worth it?"

"Waldo, from now on, we’ll be in the same social circles. So, I guess I’ll see you around." Catherine ended the call.

The sound of the dial tone filled Waldo’s car. He slammed his hand against the steering wheel, then slumped back, Catherine’s words echoing over and over in his mind. I fell for him at first sight.

He squeezed his eyes shut, the memory of five years ago rushing back. Catherine had been so excited to talk about AI algorithms, but he’d brushed her off, saying, "Why bother with this stuff? Girls should study art and music. That’s more refined."

She’d only wanted to share his passion, asking questions, eager to understand. "Can you tell me about this?" she’d asked, all bright eyes and hope.

He’d just shut his laptop. "It’s too complicated. You wouldn’t get it."

Now, sitting there, Waldo realized he’d been the one suffocating her dreams, all while convinced he was loving her the right way.

"Damn it." He punched the steering wheel again.

Catherine watched from the side, her heart fluttering at the sight of him focusing so intently. She’d only mentioned wanting a swing in passing, but he’d remembered and was already making it happen.

The sunset poured gold over his shoulders, his movements sure and practiced, every detail getting his full attention.

"Want any help?" Catherine asked, squatting beside him and resting her chin in her hands.

He looked up, grinning. "No need. I’m almost done."

She noticed a bead of sweat at his temple and, before she could overthink it, reached out to wipe it away. Lawrence paused, the screwdriver still in his hand, and looked up at her, eyes suddenly burning.

"You’re sweating…" she said, her cheeks turning pink as she quickly looked away, suddenly shy under his gaze.