After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 93

“Thanks, babe.” Catherine’s cheeks went a little pink as she slipped into the car.

They’d barely gone a few yards before Nettie, who had been watching with obvious envy, let out a low whistle. “Now that’s a real man. Just hands over his salary card, no questions asked.”

Catherine tucked the card into her purse, feeling a rush of sweetness. “Honestly, I can’t even bring myself to spend it.”

...

The downtown mall was buzzing with shoppers, but Catherine didn’t have anything she wanted. She was just there to help Nettie pick out a designer bag for her teacher’s retirement gift.

They were both trying on bags in a fancy boutique when someone walked by outside. The woman glanced at the display, paused, then peered through the glass at them. A sly smile spread across her red lips as she turned to her friend. “Let’s go inside. I want to see this for myself.”

Catherine was giving Nettie advice when suddenly a mocking voice rang out behind them. “Well, Catherine, you’re in a good mood. These bags aren’t exactly cheap. If you can’t afford them, don’t mess around. You’d hate to get one dirty and owe for it.”

Catherine didn’t even bother turning around. She already knew who it was. She rolled her eyes. “Mind your own business.”

At that moment, a sales associate turned to Nettie. “Sorry, but this bag comes with a purchase requirement. Would you still like to try it?”

Nettie frowned. “How much do I have to spend?”

“About two hundred thousand more.”

Shirley let out a laugh, watching them with clear disdain. Nettie was only middle class, after all. Even if she was a designer, she was still just an employee. She had no business shopping here.

Back when Catherine was dating Waldo, she could have picked up any bag she wanted. But now...

“Catherine, check it out. This bag probably costs as much as your husband makes in a year.” Shirley pointed at a bag worth over a hundred thousand, making sure everyone could hear.

Everyone knew what she meant. Waldo.

Shirley’s face twisted. “Nettie, who do you think you are, talking to me like that?”

“What? You don’t like the truth? You’re not exactly someone who deserves sweet words.” Nettie shot right back.

Shirley’s cheeks flushed with anger.

Catherine stared Shirley down, her voice cool. “Here’s a tip, Shirley. Don’t get too full of yourself. Sooner or later, you’ll get what you deserve.”

Shirley just laughed it off, like Catherine was a joke. “Catherine, looks like your karma came faster than mine. After all, you married a poor man. That’s punishment enough.”