Falling Into Madness - Dr Strange x OC

Chapter 5

The next few days went quickly for Stella and Stephen, both keeping themselves busy during the day whilst meeting in the evening to converse in the evenings by the window.

Stephen worked in his private study with Wong, studying the anomalies that continued to appear around New York. Stella never left his mind however, aware of his duty to return her home, but a strangely familiar yet unwelcome feeling accompanying the thought of her.

Despite the explanation Stella had provided him, Stephen still couldn't comprehend her situation. She had everything, brains, kindness, a heart-warming smile, why would she settle for a one sided marriage? With the worst version of him no less...

Stephen hadn't realised just how much him mind had wandered from their task, until Wong began throwing damaged books at him.

Downstairs, Stella wandered around aimlessly, dusting the seemingly endless trinkets and decorations the sanctuary held. It wasn't the most exciting task, but something about the quiet monotony felt calming. She was quickly adjusting to the peace, even if part of her screamed to be more productive.

She'd never had this much time to herself during the day, always waiting for her husband's next request. She didn't dislike him for it, always happy to be there if he needed her, despite what others protested.

She liked to help others, her job wouldn't make sense otherwise.

A guilty feeling swirled within Stella's gut, a haunting realisation playing at the edge of her mind.

"I love my job." Stella reassured herself out loud, not realising she'd been dusting the same spot for ten minutes. "I love my job, I love my husband and I love-"

Stella paused, her arm still holding the now dusty rag falling to her side. She had her job, she had her husband, but what else was there? What else did she need?

"I have hobbies." Stella huffed firmly to herself, her face twisting in frustration. "I-I do things..."

Stella's eyes widen, the rag floating to the floor, that same realisation from before finally taking hold in her mind.

"Oh my god.." Stella muttered. "I'm a boring, healthcare housewife!"

Turning on her heels, Stella made a beeline for the kitchen, her thoughts racing as she began pulling an assortment of recently purchased groceries out of the cabinets and fridge, carelessly throwing them on the counter.

Her eyes scanned over the items, content with the idea of baking cookies for both Stephen and Wong, she'd have to substitute a few things, but it was do-able.

Without thinking, Stella began moving around the kitchen almost in a trance, an old passion flickering to life with each movement. She began humming, a warm smile on her lips as she prepared the treats.

Time passed without realising and before she knew it, evening had crept up on Stella, along with two onlookers.

Just past the open kitchen door stood Stephen and Wong, both watching in awe as this once quiet and scared woman happily whipped around the space, her movements akin to dancing.

Wong was confused, trying to contemplate how someone's personality could shift so dramatically.

Stephen was shaken however, his eyes wide as a subtle blush crept onto his cheeks. Stella was glowing, her smile as vibrant as the stars themselves.

Wong cleared his throat, causing Stella to jump. She turned to face the pair, her eyes brightening at the sight of them.

Stephen's heart skipped, Stella truly was beautiful.