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.

glimpsed the scene and a spark

a tinge of embarrassment wash

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

she prepared to stand, Stella caught sight of Lindsay and her brow furrowed

an uncomfortable position, quickly stammered

Sorry, Mrs.

Clark, Mr.

Clark.

I didnt

got out of

rose, smoothing her rumpled clothing as Matthew stirred beside her, rubbing his weary

She addressed Erin calmly.

your

a swift exit to the

couldnt help but notice Lindsays rigid demeanor, her face contorted as if she had

of the situation wasnt

temples before addressing Lindsay with

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

didnt you

to check on me today? I was so anxious