When Love Comes Late

He attempted to reach out and embrace her, but Stella evaded his touch.

Stella regarded him with an impassive expression and replied in a rigid tone, “I was waiting for you.

”

Matthew raised his hand to stroke her hair and offered an explanation.

“I did mention I’d have a busy night and return late.

”

Stella posed a direct question, her voice laced with tension.

“Did you genuinely work late at the company tonight?”

Detecting a faint scent of alcohol emanating from his body, Matthew couldn’t help but sense Stella’s suspicion.

However, he hesitated to confront her about it.

Stella’s hand, which had sustained an injury, had yet to be examined, and he didn’t want to burden her with additional emotional strain just as she was gearing up for a crucial test.

“Yes,” Matthew admitted reluctantly.

“I went for a drink with a friend after work.

”

Stella looked at him, a sense of hurt evident in her eyes.

“You could have simply told me that you were going out for drinks.

I would have understood.

But why hide it from me? Did you think I wouldn’t allow you to go?”

Matthew pursed his lips, his head hung low, uncertain how to explain himself.

Stella’s bitterness grew.

She knew Matthew inside out.

He had always been forthright and honest, whether dealing with people he liked or those he didn’t.

His silence spoke volumes, confirming her suspicions.

This left Stella feeling even more despondent.

They had only recently reconciled, and now he was already keeping secrets from her.

What had happened to all the promises they had made earlier?

After a prolonged silence, Matthew resolved to clarify things with his wife.

He began, “Stella, please listen to me.

It’s not what you’re thinking.

I was just…”

“Enough!” Stella cut him off abruptly.

“Just leave.

I’m tired and need to rest.

”

“Stella…”

Matthew attempted to explain, but Stella had no interest in conversing with him and didn’t want to hear his voice any longer.

She glared at Matthew, her tone icy.