When Love Comes Late

Miley shot Neville a glare, her tone sharp.

Youre not even thinking straight.

Weve always been careful, so if I really were pregnant, shouldnt you be worried first? Why are you so focused on planning a wedding instead? Nevilles face darkened with irritation at her words.

Furrowing his brow, he retorted, Miley, dont say things like that.

Throwing around something Like this could hurt your reputation.

Seeing the seriousness in his expression, Miley realized she had crossed a Line.

She stopped teasing and lightly pushed him away as she stood up, preparing to return to the kitchen to continue making the soup.

But before she could leave, Neville grabbed her hand, his gaze steady and filled with intent.

Babe, honestly, I think we should consider having a baby.

Look at it this way, Miley paused, her thoughts racing, before shaking her head firmly.

Neville, our relationship is stable right now, but you know how your mother feels about us.

I dont want to use a child to force her to compromise.

Even if we ended up married, thered always be unspoken tension.

Her voice softened, the weight of her thoughts evident in her tone. Neville immediately realized his mistake-he had let his emotions take over without considering hers.

His voice grew gentle as he tried to comfort her.

Babe, dont overthink this.

A child doesnt matter-I love you.noveldrama

Ill handle the situation with my mother soon.

You dont have to worry about anything.

Youre the only one Im going to marry, and nothing will ever change that.

Hearing his words, Miley felt some of her tension ease and gave a small nod.

Sensing the shift in her mood, Neville decided to steer the conversation in a different direction.

Alright then, if youre not ready to have a baby right now, well let it go.

How about I make dinner instead? Miley waved him off.

No need.

You go do your own thing.

Ill just finish making this soup.

Nevilles brow furrowed, surprised by her sudden statement.

Why? Why arent you having dinner with me all of a sudden? Miley nearly let Stellas situation slip but managed to stop herself just in time.

Quickly, she composed a response.

Oh, its because Im taking this soup to the hospital.

I also promised Stella Id have dinner with her afterward.

Shes had such a rough day, and I want to check in and make sure shes okay.

Neville didnt seem to suspect anything.

He gave a thoughtful nod and said, Alright.

Just do your best to comfort Stella and help her unwind.

Were already investigating this matter thoroughly.

To be honest, its possible Stella wasnt even the intended target.

Mileys eyes widened in surprise.

Not the target? Then whats really going on? Nevilles expression grew grim, and he paused briefly before deciding to reveal some information to her. You know about Matthews memory loss, right? We believe the real target was Matthew, but when they couldnt get to him, they went after Stella instead-likely as a way to gain leverage or access through her.

Miley was stunned, her mouth slightly agape as she struggled to process his words.

After a long pause, she finally stammered, What? How.

how could this happen? Thats horrifying! Neville placed a steadying hand on her shoulder, his tone soft yet firm.

Dont worry, Were handling it.

But promise me you wont tell Stella yet.

Shes already under enough stress, and her health isnt strong enough to deal with more right now.

What she needs most is rest.

Miley gave a quick nod, her face serious.

I understand.

I wont say a word.

That night, Lindsay stayed secluded in her room, consumed by her own thoughts.

She only emerged for dinner after Katelyn knocked on her door.