When Love Comes Late

Ignoring her inquiry, Matthew stepped closer and reached out to support Stella.

She tensed momentarily but didnt pull away, murmuring, Im covered in soot.

I dont want to mess up your clothes.

Matthew dismissed her concern, steadying her regardless.

He shifted focus and asked, Was the fire an accident, or do you think it was intentional? Hearing this, Stellas expression grew serious as she considered his question.

A crease formed between her brows, and she spoke slowly.

I have a feeling it was deliberate.

The way it started seemed off.

Matthews gaze hardened, his voice turning cold and resolute.

Ill get to the bottom of it.

Then his attention shifted back to Stella as he asked, Was there any loss? If anything is damaged, just tell Fernando to replace it. Sanfords voice cut in with a slight edge, Feeling guilty, Matthew? Is that why youre trying to make amends? His eyes flashed with subtle defiance.

At this time, Matthew finally acknowledged Sanford, meeting his challenging stare with unwavering determination.

Shes my wife.

I dont need an excuse to look after her.

Stellas emotions were stirred by Matthews words.

It had been so long since he had spoken to her tenderly.

Her heart skipped a beat, and for a moment, she felt her cheeks grow warm.

Matthew himself was surprised by the words that had slipped out of his mouth.

A complex emotion flickered in his eyes.

Meanwhile, Sanford was about to say something when Stella quickly interjected with, You two should head back.

Ima bit tired.

Sanford had no choice but to swallow his words.

Instead, he said to her, Let me take you home.

You didnt drive here.

Stella hesitated.

She wanted to tell him that she would wait for Doreen, but Matthew had already taken her hand.

Ill drive you back, he said.

He didnt even wait for her response and just ushered her into his car.

The next thing Stella knew, she was sitting in the passenger side with her seatbelt on.

Matthew didnt waste any time starting the engine, and the car was soon leaving the warehouse behind.

After some time, however, they stopped in the middle of the highway. At first, Stella thought that there was a problem with the vehicle.

But before she could even voice her concern, Matthew pulled a wet wipe from the pouch on his dashboard and began to wipe the dirt off her face.

Stella stiffened and blinked in surprise.

I can do it myself, she murmured, reaching for the wet wipe.

Matthew dodged her hand and continued with his gentle ministrations.

You cant see your face.

How will you even know where to wipe? After a moment or two, he pulled back and said sincerely, Im sorry about today.

Once again, Stella found herself caught off-guard.

She knew that he was referring to the incident at the launch event that was all over the headlines.

She just never imagined that he would actually apologize.noveldrama