Chapter 1019
When Love Comes Late
Stella watched the elderly couple walk towards the stage, their affection for each other evident despite their grey hair.
She couldnât help but admire aloud, âThey are truly a perfect match.
â
Matthew, seizing the moment, pulled Stella into his embrace, whispering in her ear, âI think weâre a pretty good match too.
â
Her cheeks flushed with color at his words.
Gently nudging Matthew away, Stella averted her gaze towards the stage, trying to divert the attention.
âLetâs focus.
Grandpa is about to start his speech.
â
Matthew, undeterred, tightened his grip around her waist, his smile growing.
On the stage, Waldo, in a formal suit, stood with Lucia, who carried herself with grace.
Despite their age, they exuded a sense of impeccable style and dignity.
Waldoâs voice, serious and commanding, captured the room.
âThank you for joining us for my wifeâs seventieth birthday.
Alongside this celebration, we have another announcement to make.
â
Murmurs of curiosity rippled through the audience.
Waldo, unfazed, signaled for silence before continuing, âThereâs been much speculation about the identity of Matthewâs wife, accompanied by unwarranted criticism.
â
His voice, resonant and authoritative, held the audience captive.
âToday, I formally introduce Stella as Matthewâs lawful wife, the legitimate Mrs.
Clark, and the only granddaughter-in-law my wife and I acknowledge.
â
He paused, then added, âI hope that after today, there will be no further debate on this matter.
Any criticism directed at her will not be overlooked by the Clark family.
â
His declaration was met with a wave of applause.
Stella, taken aback, had always seen Waldo as a stern and traditional figure.
She hadnât expected such a forthright and supportive statement from him in public, clearly demonstrating his high regard for her.
Deeply moved, she felt a lump form in her throat.
On stage, Waldo gestured to Matthew in the audience, signaling him to bring Stella up.
Matthew acknowledged with a discreet nod and leaned close to Stella.
âItâs time for us to join them on stage,â he whispered.
Stella nodded in agreement, gently taking Matthewâs hand as they approached the stage.