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

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

caught sight of Lindsay and her brow furrowed slightly in

in an uncomfortable

Sorry, Mrs.

Clark, Mr.

Clark.

I didnt mean

arrived, Miss Wheeler had just got out of her car, so

as Matthew stirred

She addressed Erin calmly.

please start on your tasks for

Erin made a swift exit

rigid demeanor, her face contorted as if she had

absurdity of the situation wasnt Lost on

annoyed, massaged his temples before addressing Lindsay

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

you say

today? I was so