When Love Comes Late

Philip was unsure of the dynamics between the two and aimed to flatter Matthew, quickly interjecting, “What a coincidence, Chaumet rings symbolize eternal bonds, crowned by love.

Proposing with such rings would be the perfect touch, enhancing the longevity and strength of your union with Mrs.

Clark.

”

Philip continued with more blessings, but Matthew remained impassive, and so did Sanford.

Only then did Philip realize there was more than a simple acquaintance between the two men.

There was some tension.

Being an astute businessman, once he understood the complex relationships at play, he became more cautious.

He smiled and suggested, “If you’re interested, feel free to attend the auction.

Enjoy yourselves.

”

With that, he nudged Sanford and quickly left.

As soon as Sanford and Philip walked away, Miley’s curiosity got the best of her.

She tugged Stella to the side, her eyes wide with questions.

“What just happened? When did you get a brother? Is he from the Lowell family? But why does he look so… off? He doesn’t seem like the kind of person you’d trust.

”

Stella blinked, taken aback by the flood of inquiries.

She took a deep breath and, with a calm patience that belied her surprise, replied, “No, he’s not my brother.

His name is Sanford.

My father sponsored him in the past…”

Before Stella could get another word out, she caught the flicker of tension in Matthew’s expression.

His face darkened, a clear sign he wasn’t eager to hear more about Sanford.

Not wanting to stir the waters any further, Stella smoothly shifted gears.

“So, where’s our room? We should head there now,” she suggested, her tone light but decisive.

Miley’s thoughts danced back to the subject she’d discussed with Stella earlier, and a mischievous grin spread across her face.

“Why the rush? Don’t forget about the hot springs.

”

With a sly grin, Miley pulled out a room card.

Catching the unspoken suggestion in Miley’s eyes, Stella shot her a playful glare.

Without missing a beat, she snatched the room card from Miley’s hand and, with a quick nod to Matthew, hurried off with him in tow.

The resort, tucked away in the mountains, boasted serene hot springs and an atmosphere steeped in tranquility.

The air was crisp, and the rooms were artistically designed, each detail reflecting a careful hand.

Yet, despite the idyllic surroundings, Matthew found no solace in the room’s beauty.

The mere sight of Sanford had sparked a fire of anger deep within him.

Sensing the storm brewing in Matthew’s mood, Stella’s mind raced, searching for a way to lift his spirits.

Before she could utter a word, Matthew, who was walking just ahead, abruptly turned and gently pulled her into his arms.

Without giving her time to react, he closed the door, pressed her softly against it, and ki*sed her deeply.

One hand rested on her waist while the other cradled the back of her head, tilting her face toward his.

His ki*s was fervent, as if he longed to draw her even closer, almost merging them into one.

Stella placed her hands on Matthew’s chest, breathing slowly, but her body grew softer, like a pool of water.

The quiet of the room heightened the intensity, turning their ki*s into something even more passionate and lingering.

Matthew only let go when Stella was nearly out of breath, planting two more soft ki*ses on her lips.

“I really can’t stand it when Sanford’s around you.

”

Perceiving the jealousy simmering in Matthew’s voice, Stella pressed herself against his chest, her tone tinged with resignation.

“I can’t avoid him, Matthew.

He was a student my father supported.

It’s not something I can change.

”

Matthew’s expression grew darker once more.