chapter2259

Stella slowly lifted her head and squinted at him.

When she saw the face she had been longing for day and night, she immediately assumed that she was dreaming. She gave Matthew a gentle smile and brushed her fingertips across his cheek.

"It's really you… It's been so long since you last visited my dreams. Don't you love me anymore?"

And with that, Stella began to cry again. She wrapped her arms around Matthew and held him tightly. Nestling against his chest, she murmured, "Yes, that's it… It's that familiar sound… Matthew's heartbeat…"

Matthew froze, momentarily dazed. His mind urged him to push Stella away, but his heart held firm, refusing to listen.

Stella only clung to him tighter, like she was trying to hold on to something precious. For a fleeting second, Matthew lost himself, his thoughts wandering back to a tender moment long ago.

He fought it, clenching his teeth, summoning the last shred of self-control he had, and gently tried to ease Stella away.

Stella's tear-streaked eyes locked onto his, a mix of pain and confusion burning in her gaze. "Why? Why do you keep pushing me away?"

Her question left Matthew speechless again, frozen in place.

But Stella wouldn't take no for an answer. She held onto Matthew, her grip tighter than before.

"Please," she pleaded, her voice trembling with vulnerability. "Don't push me away again. Just let me stay here for a little while longer… I miss you so much."

She looked up at him, her tear-filled eyes glassy from the effects of the wine. There was a mix of innocence and longing in her gaze, making her seem even more vulnerable.

Matthew's resolve wavered. He couldn't bear to turn her away again. With a heavy heart, he closed his eyes and wrapped his arms around her.

As she nestled back into his embrace, Stella breathed him in, comforted by his familiar scent. She leaned up and pressed a soft kiss on his eyelid.

Matthew's eyes fluttered open, meeting Stella's gaze. Her eyes, filled with affection and a hint of innocence, sent a warmth straight through him.

Before he could react, Stella grew bolder, brushing her lips against his in a gentle kiss. She was tipsy, her movements hesitant and unsure of what to do next.

Frustration welled up in her, and tears gathered at the corners of her eyes.

Matthew's breath hitched. He gently deepened the kiss, his hand cradling the back of her head. Her breath was warm, laced with the faint sweetness of wine, and the kiss was tender.

Matthew gently guided Stella to lie down on the sofa, holding her close with deliberate care.