Chapter 1998

Bella stared intently at the man in the photograph, her heart tightening and then racing wildly. The photo was old, judging by the yellow-stained edges. The two men were close, with tender affection evident between them. Even though the photo could not speak, Bella could tell that her brother and this man were lovers. The deep affection in their eyes was unmistakable. Asher’s smile in the photo was bright and passionate, like a blooming sunflower. It was a smile she had never seen him wear, not even toward Arnold. A strange, indescribable emotion clogged Bella’s chest, making her feel inexplicably uncomfortable. Suddenly, steady footsteps echoed outside the study. Bella hurriedly returned the Bible to its place and slipped the photo into her shirt pocket. The door clicked open. Asher entered, wearing deep blue satin pajamas. Seeing Bella, a smile immediately reached his eyes. “Bella, when did you get here? Have you been waiting long?” “Not too long.” Bella’s beautiful face sti