When Love Comes Late by PASSION

Stella shook her head and smiled softly, trying to appear unfazed.

Im used to it, really.

Dont worry about me.

You should head home early too, so Neville doesnt end up worried sick.

Miley feigned indifference, tossing a lighthearted, Humph, as if hed care about me.

Yet her actions betrayed her words-she was already heading toward the parking lot, a sweet smile Lingering on her face.

Stella watched Miley walk away, a quiet smile tugging at her lips.

Yet in that moment, her thoughts drifted to Matthew.

She missed him terribly.

If only Matthew hadnt lost his memory. No matter how busy he had been, he would have always found a way to make time for her.

Gazing at the bustling crowd on the street and the silent screen of her phone, Stella felt a wave of sadness wash over her.

she longed for a message from him at this

and entered a private room, their

his chair, a glass in hand, his despondent

as though trying to drown the weight of his troubles, while Fernando stood beside him, looking

Cordell for help, and they

they were both perplexed by

himself into oblivion? Matthew swirled the empty glass in his hand, his tone flat as he said to Fernando,

unsure of

snatching the glass from Matthews

trying to kill yourself? Do you even know what youre doing? Matthews gaze, slightly unfocused, shifted

but the defiance was

here? I know what Im

a

at Fernando again, repeating

Go get the wine.

shooting Fernando a knowing

You can leave now.

room. Matthews expression darkened as he reached for the wine again, only