When Love Comes Late
Chapter 1969

After they finished eating, Alissa warmly invited Bella to see her studio, an invitation Bella eagerly accepted.

Stella, her fingers entwined with Bella’s, burst out enthusiastically, “You’re in for a treat! Alissa’s studio is overflowing with stunning embroidery pieces.

I only glimpsed a fraction of them on my last visit.

I had no idea I’d get to dive back in so soon.

”

Alissa responded with a warm smile, “I appreciate it, Stella.

You’re always welcome here to explore my studio whenever you desire.

”

Inside the studio, the trio was wrapped in laughter and spirited conversation.

Bella scanned the room, captivated by its compactness and elegant decor, which resonated perfectly with her taste.

Alissa proudly displayed each piece, saying, “These are the cherished graduation projects of my students, preserved here as a testament to their skills.

And this particular piece of embroidery… it has a special place in my heart.

It took the most time and thought, reflecting deep personal meaning.

”

As she tenderly stroked the delicately preserved embroidery, a nostalgic smile brightened her face.

Their exploration eventually brought them to a photograph that drew Stella’s attention.

It was the same photo she had seen before—a touching image of Alissa with her dear friend, slightly faded with time.

Alissa turned sharply, gauging Bella’s reaction.

When Bella saw the joyful faces in the photograph, she paused, overtaken by a rush of emotions that felt like needles stabbing her mind, bringing an overwhelming discomfort.

Stella immediately perceived a distress in Bella.

S

wiftly offering her support, she inquired with evident concern, “Are you alright?”

Her expression was one of worry, mingled with confusion.

Bella kept to herself, offering no reply.

Alissa, pleasantly surprised by Bella’s reaction, pondered over their recent interactions.

She had long harbored a suspicion that Bella might actually be her best friend who had vanished years ago.

In a bid to confirm her suspicions, she had intentionally brought Bella to the studio that day.

The revelation that unfolded was unexpectedly joyous.

Although eager to share her discovery, Alissa noticed Bella’s apparent unease and chose to contain her excitement.

She led Bella gently to a sofa and poured a glass of water, comforting her by saying, “Sit here for a moment.

Water might help.

”

Time passed, and Bella felt better.

She accepted the water gratefully with a “thank you” and after taking a sip, placed the glass down.

She then pointed to the photograph they had just viewed and questioned, “Is the person in this photo your friend?”

Alissa answered truthfully, “Yes, she’s my best friend.

She experienced a car accident just like you did, years ago.

No one has known whether she survived it…”

Throughout her narration, Alissa’s eyes remained fixed on Bella, searching for any flicker of recognition or change.

Yet, Bella’s expression stayed unexpectedly calm, devoid of any prior turmoil.

A wave of disappointment washed over Alissa as she looked away.