When Love Comes Late by PASSION

Yet, Matthew dismissed her efforts, his voice slurred but tender.

Dont go, darling.

Stay here in my arms just a little Longer.

Her heart skipped a beat at his unexpected words.

As he fell silent, seemingly drifting back to sleep, his arms held her in a steadfast embrace.

Close enough to feel his breath, Stella stared into his face, her emotions swirling-a storm of confusion, affection, and concern.

Gradually, her resistance waned, and she settled into the warmth of his hold.

Perhaps it was the strain of the past few days or the comfort of his embrace, but soon, fatigue overtook her, and she succumbed to sleep nestled against him.

Meanwhile, Matthews eyes opened, clear and sober.

He watched over Stella, cradling her with mixed emotions in his eyes.

The next morning, Stella awoke to a startled cry. Erin had arrived, stepping into the living room to find an unexpected scene: Stella and Matthew, intertwined in sleep on the sofa.

Her gasp of surprise punctured the morning stillness.

trailing behind Erin, glimpsed the scene and a spark of jealousy

tinge of embarrassment wash

Matthew had drifted off, but unexpectedly, she too had succumbed

of Lindsay and her brow furrowed

an uncomfortable position, quickly stammered an

Sorry, Mrs.

Clark, Mr.

Clark.

I didnt

just got out of her car, so I

Matthew stirred beside her, rubbing

She addressed Erin calmly.

start on your

a swift exit

demeanor, her face contorted as if she had stumbled

the situation wasnt

looking visibly annoyed, massaged his temples before

aback by his blunt inquiry, hastily dabbed at her dry eyes, her voice laced with

didnt you

me today? I was so anxious last night;