After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 52

Lawrence got up and walked over to her. When he noticed her eyes were red, his brows pulled together. "Hey, what's going on?"

Catherine shook her head and buried herself in his chest, not saying a word.

She knew she couldn't tell him that she had fought with her father because of him. That would just weigh on his heart.

Lawrence steadied her by the shoulders, searching her tearful eyes. His voice was gentle but firm. "Talk to me. What happened?"

"It's nothing, really. On my way home, I saw someone who looked just like my mom." Catherine bit her lip, making up an excuse. She pressed her face deeper into his chest, her words muffled. "I just... I miss my mom."

That seemed to ease something in Lawrence. He wrapped her up in his arms and softly patted her back. "If you need to cry, then cry. Let it out."

Catherine clung to him, thinking quietly, Lawrence, you're all I have left now.

She stayed in his arms for a while, crying until she soaked his shirt. Lawrence didn't rush her. He just kept running his hand gently over her hair, letting her know he was right there.

After a while, once her tears slowed, Catherine pulled back a little, looking a bit shy. "Sorry, I guess I'm being really sensitive tonight."

"It's okay." Lawrence reached out and gently wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes.

Being close to him made her feel safe, calmer than before. She looked up at him, tears still lingering, and managed a small smile. "Can I hold you just a little longer?"

Her voice was soft and a little needy, which made Lawrence pause for a second. Then he pulled her close again, pressing her head against the other, still-dry side of his chest.

Catherine smiled, hugging his waist tightly. In that moment, she felt like walking away from her family's fortune was completely worth it.

As long as he was here, she could handle anything.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify