After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 48

"Thanks." Lawrence's lips curved into a small smile as he kept working.

Something occurred to Catherine. She got up and walked into the living room. When she came back, she was carrying a glass of water. "Here. Have some water."

Lawrence accepted the glass and drank in big, thirsty gulps. Catherine watched him, her heart pounding out of rhythm. There was something about the way Lawrence moved, something completely unfiltered and magnetic.

It was attraction in its purest form.

"You can just relax. I'll be finished soon," Lawrence said. He tossed a thick chain over the sturdiest tree branch.

Catherine stood off to the side, careful not to interrupt. She realized she was thirsty too and spotted half a glass of water left on the table.

She pressed her lips together, then without thinking, picked up the glass and took a sip. Her cheeks went hot in an instant.

Did that count as an indirect kiss?

Luckily, Lawrence didn't notice. About ten minutes later, Catherine put the glass back in the kitchen and returned to find the swing ready and waiting.

"All done," Lawrence said, brushing his hands together. "Come try it."

Catherine lit up. She walked over and sat down carefully on the swing, gripping the chains. Lawrence stepped behind her and gave her a gentle push.

A cool breeze drifted by, and as the swing picked up speed, Catherine looked up at the sky. The sunset was gorgeous, streaks of color fading into the coming night. She couldn't stop herself from smiling. A little laugh bubbled out of her.

Lawrence smiled too, eyes crinkling. "Are you happy?"

"So happy. I love it," Catherine said, nodding. She didn't bother hiding her excitement.

Lawrence's hands, big and warm, pushed her through the thin fabric of her shirt. Catherine felt her face grow even warmer.

As he continued to push, Lawrence said, "If you ever want something, just tell me."

Catherine felt a rush of warmth in her chest. She grinned. "Okay."

Lawrence's gaze turned even softer. "I'm glad you like it."

She couldn't help herself. "Lawrence, why are you so good to me?" The question slipped out. She wondered, if he had saved another girl that day and she wanted to marry him too, would he have agreed?

Catherine didn't even realize her question sounded a little jealous.

Lawrence did. He squeezed her a little tighter, looking her in the eyes. "Because it's you. That's all there is."

His words were quiet, but they hit her heart with so much certainty.

Catherine felt like she was glowing. Her smile was all sunshine.

That answer was perfect.

Lawrence was the first to let go. He glanced at his watch. "I'll make us some dinner. How does pasta sound tonight?"