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?”

“No, I grew

here after I got

”

as she continued, “Did you just mention you had

unusual,

“Yes, he raised me.

”

responded, she noticed a strange look on Alissa’s face and asked, puzzled,

quickly dismissed her

“Oh, no, it’s nothing.

have confused you with

”

any lingering awkwardness, Stella got straight to the

come to

on a project that

seen the pattern

myself, I’m hoping you could assist

”

she spoke, Stella unfolded a design draft

to complete this pattern, but she had to attend to

dress completed by

this tight deadline and ensure the

respond

do everything we can to meet your

”

Alissa shook her head.

need anything,” she

but it’ll take at least