When Love Comes Late

Inside the elevator, Lindsay steadied her breath, her mind already several steps ahead.

Katelyn had grown too curious, too involved in her life, and that was a liability.

Once her plan unfolded, Katelyn would be of no use-and she knew exactly how to get rid of her.

Following the instructions in the text message, Lindsay arrived at the north gate, her eyes scanning the area.

A black car stood parked, its sleek surface blending seamlessly into the night.

She checked the surroundings-empty.

It was now or never.noveldrama

Without hesitation, she straightened up, her heart pounding in her chest, and slid into the car.

The back seat was shrouded in shadow, a partition keeping her from seeing the driver.

She leaned forward slightly, trying to pierce the darkness.

Sir, who exactly are you? The response? Nothing. Silence, thick and impenetrable.

The car eased into motion, and Lindsay, sensing that further conversation would be futile, settled back into her seat.

Meanwhile, hidden in the shadows, Katelyn was struggling to process the impossible.

She had just witnessed something that didnt make sense-Lindsay had stood up.

Katelyns hands shook as she clutched her phone, her thumb hovering over Matthews contact.

Would he even believe her without solid proof? Doubt gnawed at her.

Maybe she had seen things wrong.

Maybe it wasnt Lindsay after all.

She shoved the phone back into her pocket, her mind a storm of confusion.

The air inside another car felt thick, stifling with tension.

Stella sat beside Matthew, her brow furrowed as she watched him, attempting to keep the peace.

Its really not polite, you know.

Matthew said nothing, his lips drawn tight in a grim line, his gaze fixed ahead.

He absorbed her words, but the quiet only served to build his frustration.

The more she spoke, the more his anger swelled, a pressure he couldnt contain.

Without warning, he slammed his foot onto the brake pedal.

The car lurched violently to the side of the road, sending Stella hurtling forward in her seat.

Instinctively, she crossed her arms over her stomach, bracing herself from the shock.

Oblivious to Stellas subtle gesture, Matthews hands gripped the wheel with white-knuckled intensity, his anger still bubbling beneath the surface.

He turned to face her, his eyes dark with frustration.

I dont want Sanford anywhere near you. I dont care what it is.

I wont allow it.

Stella felt her temper ignite as Matthews words echoed in her ears.

She could no longer keep the fury contained.

This is completely irrational! Matthews expression darkened instantly, his gaze sharpening like a blade.

Youre my wife; thats non-negotiable! But Stellas fury only intensified.

She met his glare head-on, unshaken.

First and foremost, I am me, she snapped, her words clear and unyielding.

I Live my own life.

You dont control me.