After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 75

“Dad, it’s fine. I forgive Catherine. She just felt a little left out, that’s all.” Shirley put on her most gracious smile, acting like she was above it all.

Catherine just let out a cold laugh and left the lounge without looking back.

“Catherine.” Waldo called after her and didn’t hesitate to follow. He could tell she had been hurt by all this.

Catherine could never compete with Shirley’s tricks. Everyone knew it.

“Waldo…” Shirley’s voice was soft behind him, a little desperate. She hadn’t expected him to drop everything for Catherine, not when she was supposed to be the one who deserved comfort.

Catherine walked back into the main hall, blinking fast to keep the tears from falling. She spotted Lawrence in a quiet corner, talking on the phone, and didn’t even hesitate. She walked straight over.

Lawrence turned around just as she reached him. She didn’t say a word, just threw herself into his arms, pressing her face against his chest. The hurt and anger she’d been holding in finally broke free. Her silent tears quickly soaked his shirt.

Lawrence didn’t even ask. He just hung up, wrapped his arms around her, and held her close. “Hey. What happened?”

Catherine shook her head. She didn’t want to talk about it. She didn’t want Lawrence to get involved or fight her battles.

Just then, Waldo rushed over. He saw them together and his face flushed with anger. He grabbed Catherine’s arm. “Catherine, can we talk?”

Lawrence’s eyes went cold. He reached out and gripped Waldo’s wrist, squeezing until Waldo had to let go.

“Waldo, that’s enough.” Lawrence’s voice was icy. “Catherine is my wife now.”

The tension melted away. Catherine let out a quiet breath and looked up at Lawrence. “Don’t bother with him. He’s not worth it.”

Lawrence saw the hint of tears still clinging to her lashes and gently wiped them away. “Tell me what happened.”

Catherine puffed up her cheeks, trying to look tough. “It’s nothing. My dad just said a couple things.”

Lawrence held her close and sighed. “I’m sorry. Marrying me shouldn’t mean you have to put up with this.”

Catherine’s eyes softened and a smile broke through, even though her lashes were still wet. “It’s not like that. Being with you is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

Lawrence pulled her in tighter, his guilt showing for just a moment before he let out another breath, holding her close.