“How did you be such a pro all of a sudden?” Ste inquired, her eyes wide with curiosity.


    Matthew nced her way, carrying on with his task.


    “No big deal, really.


    Just picked up a few tricks from Cordell over a couple of days,” he replied softly.


    Ste’s surprise only grew.


    “But you’re swamped with work.


    Why bother learning this?” she questioned.


    Matthew shrugged casually.


    “Doesn’t take much time.


    With you injured, someone’s got to step up.


    Can’t rely on others forever, right?”


    Fixing his gaze on Ste, he remarked, “What counts most is ensuring my wife feelsfortable.


    ”


    Deeply touched, Ste realized it wasn’t about who changed the bandage; what truly mattered was Matthew’s thoughtfulness.


    A warm smile spread across her face.


    “Thanks, love!”


    Matthew simply smiled back, continuing to apply the ointment.


    Suddenly, Ste recalled something about Devyn.


    “Do you know any embroidery factories?” she asked.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Matthew halted, turning to face her.


    “Why the sudden interest?” he inquired.


    Ste borated, “I visited Devyn’s online store a few days back.


    She’s starting her own business, facing a shortage of funds and connections.


    Thought I could lend a hand as a friend.


    ”


    ‘s BunnyBookery


    Matthew furrowed his brow.


    “So, did she swing by the vi today to ask for help?”


    “Not at all,” Ste sighed.


    “She didn’t mention it and refused aid when I offered.


    My mistake.


    I might have bruised her pride.


    ”


    Lowering her gaze slightly, she expressed in a concerned tone, “She’s been strugglingtely.


    Perhaps she’s facing some trouble.


    I want to assist her discreetly.


    ”


    Matthew nodded.


    “If it’s what you want, no qualms from me.


    Finding an embroidery factory isn’t tough.


    I’ll pass on some contactster.


    ”


    “Honey, you’re so sweet!”


    Ste beamed momentarily, forgetting her injured hand.


    She reached out to hug Matthew, inadvertently tugging at her wound.


    “Ouch!” She winced, inhaling sharply.


    Matthew halted his actions immediately.


    “Stay still.


    Let me bandage it properly,” he insisted.


    Ste recovered and met his concerned gaze, reassuring him, “I’m okay.


    I just got too excited and identally tugged at the wound.


    ”


    Matthew observed her nonchnt demeanor and sighed, “You never learn.


    ”


    Meanwhile, Devyn returned to her studio, engrossed in refining the documents at hand.


    Despite numerous revisions and redraws, the desired oue remained elusive.