When Love Comes Late by PASSION

Introducing them, Doreen said, “Professor Perez, this is Stella Anderson, the woman I work for, founder of our studio.

”

Then, turning to Stella, she added, “And this is Alissa Perez, my professor.

”

Stella extended a polite greeting to Alissa.

The woman who stood before her was in her forties, exuding a mature charm and an elegant grace that seemed to illuminate her surroundings.

However, Stella couldn’t help but notice Alissa’s lingering gaze.

Feeling a twinge of self-consciousness, she wondered if her face was smeared with dirt and subconsciously brushed her cheek with her hand.

Observing Stella, Alissa explained, “I’m sorry, but you look incredibly familiar.

It’s so startling that I find myself unable to look away.

My apologies for staring.

”

Stella lowered her hand and offered a forgiving smile, responding lightly, “It’s no problem at all.

”

Alissa continued to gaze at Stella, curiosity piqued, and inquired, “Your last name isn’t common around Seamarsh.

Are you from here, Ms.

Anderson?”

I grew up in Bysea with my

here after

”

“Did you just mention you

question seemed unusual, and

“Yes, he raised me.

”

strange look on Alissa’s face and

dismissed

“Oh, no, it’s nothing.

confused you with

”

any lingering awkwardness, Stella got straight

I’ve come to seek

currently working on a project

seen the

not skilled in embroidery myself, I’m

”

unfolded a design draft

take two days to complete this pattern, but she

dress completed

meet this tight deadline

respond

out, “We’ll do everything we can to

”

Alissa shook her head.

don’t need anything,” she

but it’ll