Matthew hung up and found himself gazing at the phone screen that bore Stes name.


    The image of her earlier disappointed look lingered in his mind, piercing his heart like a sharp de and weighing it down with sadness.


    The depth of emotion Ste stirred in him baffled Matthew.


    His memories of her were as nk as an unwritten book, yet the sight of her distress seemed to twist his heart with an invisible grip, leaving him swathed in confusion and distress.


    Elsewhere, Be, leaning on Ste and Alissa for support, settled into the car, her emotions swirling.


    Upon arriving home, concern etched her face as she turned to Ste and asked, Has Matthew been treating you this way recently? He wasnt like this in the past.


    Alissa echoed the concern, her eyes clouded with worry.


    Ste, please dont keep things from us.


    If Matthew is mistreating you, well stand by you.


    A wave of gratitude washed over Ste, and she managed a reassuring smile.


    Thank you, but honestly, its nothing.


    Conflict is just a part of any rtionship. Well sort it out ourselves.


    Bes frown deepened, her resolve hardening.


    I appreciate that Lindsay helped Matthew, and for that, we owe her thanks, but her family shouldnt be stirring up trouble.


    What do the rk family elders think of Lindsay? Surely, they wouldnt allow the Wheeler family to bully you like this.


    Ste responded honestly, When the Wheelers came to the rk family home today, they had an argument with Lucia.


    Both Lucia and Waldo are principled and wont bend their values for Lindsay or anyone else.


    Hearing that, Be felt a flicker of reassurance.


    However, memories of Matthews recent behavior clouded her thoughts.


    She turned to Ste with a concerned look and asked, When will Matthews memorye back? What if he never returns to how he was? Ste considered thetest test results, and Cordell had yet to update them about the arrangement of the surgery.


    With a forced smile that couldnt hide the sadness in her eyes, she replied, Mom, weve both been through the ordeal of losing our memories.


    Look at us; neither has fully recovered yet.


    I doubt Matthews recovery will be swift, especially with his uing surgery.


    The outlook isnt very hopeful. Bes frown deepened, her voice tinged with indignation.


    But ever since he lost his memory, Matthew has been like apletely different person.


    While everyone is sympathetic, if he continues this way, it will really dishearten those who care about him.


    Ste bowed her head, enveloped in silence once more.


    Indeed, she felt disheartened and frequently found herself grappling with her feelings toward Matthew, struggling to empathize with him.


    This internal conflict was a source of profound pain.


    Be was about to say more, but Alissa gently tugged at her arm, a silent plea to consider Stes fragile emotional state.


    Be observed Stes downcast expression, sighed softly, and reached out to gently touch her hand.


    It pains me to see you shoulder so much burden while Matthew is like this.


    Ste raised her eyes, a spark of determination flickering within them.


    If I were the one who had forgotten everything, Im certain Matthew would stand by my side, through thick and thin.


    So, Ill do no less for him during this trying time. As Stes words echoed in the quiet, her phone suddenly rang, pulling her abruptly from her resolve.


    She nced at the screen to see Matthew calling.


    Be and Alissa noticed the caller ID as well, and Alissa quickly chimed in, Answer it, Ste.


    Maybe Matthew wants to clear the air.


    Ill stay with Be tonight.


    You two should have a heart-to-heart.


    Try to sort out any misunderstandings as soon as possible.


    Without waiting for Stes reply, Alissa ushered Be away, giving Ste the space she needed.


    The incessant ringing of the phone pulled Ste from her thoughts, leaving her puzzled and slightly on edge.


    Why would Matthew call now? Yet, beneath her confusion, a glimmer of hope sparked-could he have justified reasons for defending Lindsay? Holding onto that sliver of hope, Ste pressed the answer button.


    Silence stretched between them as the call connected, neither willing to break it.


    The quiet was thick,den with unspoken words.