After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 81

The boutique was almost silent. The staff had all slipped away, leaving the place feeling private and peaceful. Lawrence looked at her with that gentle, steady gaze, like she was the only person in his world.

“You look beautiful,” he said softly, holding out his arm.

Catherine’s cheeks turned a little pink as she slipped her hand into the crook of his elbow. “Let’s go.”

She didn’t even realize that the most exclusive boutique downtown had been reserved just for her, for a whole hour.

When they reached the entrance of the banquet hall, Catherine glanced up at him. “You’re really not coming in?”

Lawrence smiled, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. “I’ve got something else to take care of tonight. Just enjoy yourself.”

She nodded. She’d made up her mind to give her little family a better life, so there was no reason to hide her ambition anymore. Tonight, she was going to make her mark in the tech world and look for new opportunities.

“Text me when you’re ready to leave. I’ll pick you up,” Lawrence said, gently ruffling her hair.

Catherine looked up at him, her eyes sparkling under the lights. She grinned, a hint of mischief on her face. “I have a secret. Come closer.”

Lawrence leaned in, curious, his ear right by her lips. But instead of a whispered secret, he felt the soft brush of her lips against his cheek.

She’d kissed him.

Catherine didn’t dare meet his eyes. She turned away, gathered her evening gown, and hurried toward the lobby. After a few steps, she couldn’t help but look back, flashing him a playful smile.

Lawrence’s breath caught. His Adam’s apple bobbed, and his eyes grew dark and intense.

Of course she came solo, Shirley thought. She probably knows her broke husband would just embarrass her. So now she’s here, trying to steal the spotlight for herself.

She turned away, but not before noticing that Waldo was also watching Catherine, his expression unreadable and thoughtful.

Catherine was as striking as ever, but there was something different about her tonight. Waldo sensed a new energy—an easy, self-assured independence. She wasn’t just the quiet, elegant woman he used to know.

Just then, someone stepped out from the crowd. It was Magee.

“Catherine, you made it. Come on, let me introduce you to some people,” Magee said, flashing her a warm smile.

Catherine nodded politely, falling in step behind him as he led her toward a group of senior professors from the country’s top tech universities.