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?”

head, Stella replied, “No, I grew up in Bysea with my

moved here after I

”

surprise was evident as she continued, “Did you just mention

unusual,

“Yes, he raised me.

”

responded, she noticed a strange look on Alissa’s

quickly dismissed her

“Oh, no, it’s nothing.

have confused you with someone

”

any lingering awkwardness, Stella got straight to

I’ve come to seek your

a project that

seen the pattern

not skilled in embroidery myself, I’m hoping

”

she spoke, Stella unfolded a design draft

this pattern, but she had to attend to an

this dress

help us meet this tight deadline and ensure the work is

respond right

reservations and blurted out, “We’ll do everything we can to meet your needs, whatever

”

Alissa shook her head.

don’t need anything,”

but it’ll take at least