Chapter 1909
When Love Comes Late
The womanâs mournful voice pierced Bellaâs heart with a sharp pain.
At that moment, Bella finally recognized the womanâs face.
The very next moment, she opened her eyes and locked gazes with Stella.
Both women were visibly startled.
Bella was momentarily disoriented and unclear about her surroundings.
When Stella saw Bella stir, her surprise spurred her to quickly press the call button for assistance.
Within moments, a doctor arrived to examine Bella.
Standing beside the doctor, Stella could hardly contain her impatience.
âHowâs she doing? Is her recovery going well?â
The doctor, after setting aside his instruments, replied, âFrom what the readings show, her condition appears stable.
Weâll keep her here for observation for a couple more days.
Assuming no complications arise, she should be ready to go home soon.
â
Stellaâs face lit up with a relieved smile at the news.
âThank you, doctor.
â
With heartfelt gratitude, she escorted the doctor to the door and saw him out.
Then she quietly shut it behind him.
Turning around, Stella caught Bellaâs gaze fixed on her.
Confronted with Bellaâs questioning eyes, Stella found herself at a loss for words.
Although she had rehearsed what to say countless times, the actual words eluded her in the moment, sticking stubbornly in her throat.
After a prolonged silence, Bella broke the quiet.
âHave you been here with me the whole time?â
Stella, her face betraying her nerves, nodded and replied hastily, âYes, and Kristian is in the next room.
I can fetch him if youâd like.
â
âNo rush.
â Bella had a nagging suspicion to confirm.
She gazed directly at Stella and said cautiously, âWhile I was unconscious, I heard someone calling me ââmomââ¦â
She trailed off, but the meaning hung heavy between them.
Stellaâs heart raced as she met Bellaâs eyes.
After a tense moment, she confessed, âIt was meâ¦â
Gathering her bravery, she stared deeply into Bellaâs eyes and declared firmly, âIâve verified that you are my biological mother.
â
With those words, a weight seemed to lift from Stellaâs shoulders, the burden of secrecy dissipating.
Meanwhile, just outside, Kristian had edged the door open slightly.
As he was about to step inside, he overheard Stellaâs revelation.
His hands balled into tight fists, and a dark look crossed his features.