When Love Comes Late by PASSION

Everything felt like an insurmountable weight pressing on her chest.

Her exhaustion caught up with her, and before she realized it, she had drifted off to sleep.

A knock at the door startled her awake sometime around noon.

She sat up abruptly, her stiff body protesting the sudden movement.

Her mind felt foggy as she tried to reorient herself.

Stella, are you in there? came Doreens gentle voice from outside.

Quickly smoothing her hair and straightening her clothes, Stella called out, Come in.

She felt the heavy weight of fatigue lingering as though her energy had been drained completely.

Lately, it seemed she could fall asleep anywhere, at any time.

Doreen entered and immediately noticed Stellas pale face and tired eyes.

Stella, you look absolutely worn out, she said, her tone filled with concern.

Maybe you should go home and rest for a bit? Stella shook her head firmly.

I cant.

Theres too much going on right now. I dont have the time.

a

a

Stellas brows furrowed.

Sanford, but she quickly dismissed the ideaDoreen knew Sanford, so

more, Doreen

Lowell sent him.

asked Bennett to help her investigate

she said, Let him

gave a quick nod and stepped out of

returned, escorting

Doreen excused herself with a tactful bow, leaving

approached Stella with an air

Good afternoon.

is

graduate from Stella held up a

need

she handed him a folder that Doreen

contain details about the chandelier incident at

need you to

the warehouse fire and see if you can uncover

accepted the folder with a

Understood.

the bottom of

he gave a respectful nod and

Stellas surprise, Dexter proved