When Love Comes Late by PASSION

Chapter 2495

Howards composure faltered momentarily.

Panic flickered across his face before he forced a strained smile.

Youre joking, right? Stella has been staying at my castle these past few daystheres no one else involved.

His voice betrayed his unease, but he pushed forward, desperate to convince.

If you doubt me, youre welcome to ask Stella yourself.

Has she mentioned meeting anyone else recently? Sensing the tension in the room, Stella responded with measured calm.

The past few days at the castle have been… a very different kind of experience.

Its nothing like life in Seamarsh.

Stella maintained her composure and chose her words carefully.

She knew better than to reveal too much affection for Matthew, fearing it could make him a target.

Matthew acknowledged her with a slight nod before turning his attention back to Howard.

Thank you, Mr.

Archer, for looking after Stella and Bella these past few days.

However, weve been away from Seamarsh for quite some time now, and my family has missed her dearly. We wont impose on your hospitality any longer.

a happy birthday-weve brought

lingered in the air, Fernando stepped forward, presenting a beautifully wrapped package with

and gently taking her arm.-With a glance, he

out when a deep, authoritative voice rang

even sharing a drink with me? Do you intend to disrespect an old man like me?

instinctively turned her head, and the moment her eyes

and stunned face betrayed

Meanwhile, the secretarys reaction was

without hesitation,

his utmost respect, he stepped beside the man, supporting him with

gaze darted between the secretary and

the secretarys true superior

yet, confusion bubbled within

Why did his presence seem to overshadow Howards so effortlessly? With the secretarys assistance, Declan slowly approached Stella, his

smile lit up his face

been a

me? Then, with

Im Declan Charles.

demeanor was that of a benevolent elder

She knew better.

no way this encounter was as

swirled with unanswered questions, Stella forced herself

a faint smile, she replied evenly, Sir, you do remind me of an

ordinary person-nothing like

must be confusing me

past