When Love Comes Late

The memory was painful.

Holding back her tears, she decided to fetch a blanket for Matthew.

But as she turned to retrieve it, he grabbed her wrist.

Matthew’s eyes shot open, pinning her with a steady, intense look.

His voice was rough and deep.

“Where are you going?”

Stella, caught off guard and not wanting to admit her feelings, replied hastily, “I’m hungry.

I was just going to get some food.

”

Matthew sat up, still holding her wrist, and warned, “This isn’t our place.

If you’re hungry, we should head back.

I’ll have Fernando prepare something.

”

Looking into Matthew’s eyes, Stella retorted playfully, “I’d prefer something you made.

”

Matthew hesitated for a brief moment, and then admitted with an awkward tone, “I can’t…”Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDrâ/ma.O(r)g!

Stella, attempting to conceal her disappointment, quickly responded, “Is it that you can’t, or you don’t want to?”

Matthew appeared confused, as if struck by a sudden thought, and asked cautiously, “Did I use to cook?”

The realization only deepened Stella’s sadness; he had forgotten that as well.

Matthew had learned cooking after their relationship had improved, so it was understandable he might not recall it.

Stella made peace with this in her thoughts before responding with a forced smile, “Forget it then.

I need to get to my studio soon.

Just do whatever you like.

”

She then attempted to escape Matthew’s hold and leave.

However, Matthew gripped her wrist firmly, refusing to let her go.

Stella faced him, her expression a blend of frustration and resignation.

Before she could voice her feelings, Matthew declared, “Come home, I’ll cook for you.

”

Stella paused, momentarily transported back to their earlier sweet times by his words.

By the time she regained her composure, Matthew had already ushered her into the car.

Stella looked at Matthew awkwardly, unsure whether to exit the vehicle.

But before she could decide, Matthew had started the car.

Engrossed in their own thoughts, they drove in silence.

Upon returning to Prosper Bay, Matthew headed directly for the kitchen.