When Love Comes Late

Bella, overhearing the names Kristian and Elizabeth, blanched, her face twisting with discomfort.

Quick to notice Bellas unease, Stella steered the conversation toward safer waters.

Whitney, any idea whos behind this international fashion event? Im not quite sure, Whitney replied, her brow furrowing.

But rumor has it that the Charles family from Lyllmann might be pulling the strings.

Curiosity piqued, Stella leaned in.

That family has clout? Whitney nodded, her eyes widening.

Oh, more than clouttheyre an enigma.

Barely anything on them in the public eye, yet they manage to corral designers from across the globe.

Theyre not just influential; theyre power brokers.

Stella mulled over this, impressed by the scale of the event.

It did show the power of the people behind this event. The car meandered through the gates of a sprawling estate.

Whitney, glancing at her travel-weary companions, suggested, Why dont you both catch some rest? Later, Ill show you around so you can get your bearings.

Once in her room, Stella perched on the beds edge, pondering whether to check on Sanford.

She reached for her phone and was interrupted by a message from Matthew.

Settling in alright in Dorburn? he had typed out, concern lacing his words.

As Stella contemplated her response, her phone burst into life-it was Matthew, calling to hear her voice.

Stella picked up the call and was met by Matthews gentle voice, an unexpected comfort.

I figured you might have made it to Dorburn by now.

I was a bit concerned about how youd take to it there.

It had been ages since Matthew had used such a tender tone with her, leaving Stella momentarily dazed.

Almost instinctively, she replied softly, Everything is running smoothly, and Im settling in just fine.

Thats great to hear.

By the way, I wanted to update you on my day here.

Robins funeral concluded without too much drama.

Leona and Betsey tried to kick up a fuss, but it fizzled out quickly.

Ill be sending them back to Osemery in a few days.

You shouldnt have any more disruptions.noveldrama

Stella offered a noncommittal hum in response, her mind distant from the Wheeler family drama.

Her thoughts lingered on Katelyn, whose whereabouts remained a mystery.

A faint rustle came through from Matthews side, suggesting he might still be at the funeral.

Im quite tired and need some rest now, she said, hinting at a goodbye. Of course, get some rest, Matthew replied, always pragmatic.

Call me if you need anything, he added before ending the call promptly.

As Matthew stepped out into the corridor, he was intercepted by a flustered Fernando.

With a troubled look, Fernando blurted out, Mr.

Clark, theres been an incident-Betsey just attacked Lindsay.

Matthew and Fernando hurried to the scene, only to be met with utter disarray.

Lindsay was sprawled on the ground, her wheelchair overturned, trapping her legs beneath its weight.

Leona had succumbed to her grief and was being whisked away to the hospital, while Betsey, her face twisted in anger, was lashing out at Lindsay, her curses slicing through the air.

Lindsay, vulnerable and defenseless, tried to shield her head from the blows.

Betsey, with eyes blazing and devoid of reason, was relentless, her foot aimed at Lindsay.

At that crucial moment, Fernando intervened, pushing Betsey back with determination.