When Love Comes Late by PASSION

Yet her darting eyes gave her away.

Stellas lips curved into a cool, almost taunting smile.

Without breaking eye contact, she reached for a pair of scissors lying on the table.

Holding them out to Lindsay, she said smoothly, Go ahead.

Isnt this what you wanted? Heres your chance.

Take these scissors and destroy the dresses-or come up with some other brilliant way to ruin them.

Lets see if youve got the nerve.

Lindsay reeled from Stellas abrupt challenge.

Her eyes wide, she shot back a fiery retort.

You think I lack the guts? A tremor of mixed anger and panic vibrated through her voice.

Stellas smirk only widened, her tone laced with provocation.

You claim courage? Prove it.

Stop the chatter; Im itching to see your next move. Consumed by fury, Lindsay seized the scissors with a fierce grip, hoisted them aloft, and brought them down toward the lavish dresses, unleashing the pent-up storm of jealousy and resentment.

in the throes of her wrath, a seed of doubt

thoughts swirled through her

Stella? Stellas eyes, gleaming with

mid-rebellion? Werent you just a fountain

s ...

the realization

eyes narrowed, a glint of malice flashing

a cautious glance around and indeed, her gaze caught the ominous blink of a red light from a surveillance camera tucked

Stella followed Lindsays alarmed look and offered

so

scorn, You boasted of daring to make

a little camera? Seems your bravery was just for

cheeks burned a fierce red, her indignation

teeth, she spat, Dont

Stella advanced, plucking the scissors from

Heed my warning, Lindsay.

my event, and Ill make

could crush you without

Stellas eyes sent an icy shiver down

menacing words, causing her to flinch back,

Stella, Lindsays voice cut through

trap for me! Stella merely laughed off the accusation, her voice dripping

lure you backstage? Did I coerce you into the dressing room? Lindsay, spare