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.

scene and a spark of jealousy ignited within

tinge of embarrassment wash over

drifted off, but unexpectedly, she too had succumbed to sleep through

sight of

caught in an uncomfortable position,

Sorry, Mrs.

Clark, Mr.

Clark.

I didnt mean to

just got out of her car, so I invited

Matthew stirred beside

She addressed Erin calmly.

start on your

swift

face contorted as if she had

absurdity of the situation wasnt Lost

annoyed, massaged his temples before

Lindsay, taken aback by his blunt inquiry, hastily dabbed at her dry

didnt you

I was so anxious last night; I barely