He watched as she pulled her hand free from his grip and turned to walk away with Sanford.


    Matthew stood there, frozen, as regret, loss, and helplessness churned inside him.


    As the elevator doors closed, Ste and Sanford stood in tense silence.


    Breaking the silence, Sanford spoke quietly, his voice calm but sincere.


    Its not all Matthews fault for resorting to fists; I share the me.


    Stes chest tightened with a mix of disappointment and anger toward Matthew.


    You dont have to defend Matthew.


    Ever since he lost his memory, hes changed.


    He no Longer knows how to treat the people around me properly.


    Sanford sighed heavily. It seems Ive created another disagreement between you two.


    Ste fell silent, her thoughts a tangled mess.


    The silence lingered between them for a while before Sanford said, You go up and take care of Clint.


    I can handle this minor injury myself.


    Ste pushed aside her swirling thoughts and refocused on Sanford.


    No, you were hurt because of me.


    I have to make sure your injury is properly taken care of, she insisted.


    When the elevator doors slid open, they stepped out together, and Ste immediately went to a nurse to retrieve an ointment and cotton swabs.


    In the quiet corridor, she began to gently tend to Sanfords wound.


    The two stood very close, Ste Looking solemn as she carefully cleaned Sanfords wound. Sanford watched her, his mind restless.


    Earlier, Den had called, insisting Stee to his ce so Den could hypnotize her and uncover the location of Koris treasure map hidden in her memories.


    Dens methods were always extreme, and Sanford instinctively wanted to protect Ste, not hurt her.


    But he knew he couldnt stop Dens n.


    Stes movements pulled him from his thoughts.


    She stepped back, avoiding his gaze.


    I have taken care of the wound Take the ointment and apply it tomorrow.


    Thank you, he murmured.


    As she turned to leave, he called her hesitantly, saying, Ste, have you seen Dentely? Looking puzzled, she replied, I saw him a few days ago.


    We even had lunch. Why? Sanford shrugged.


    Its nothing.


    Ste turned around, ready to leave.


    Sanford stopped her again.


    If he invites you over soon, find a way to say no.


    Ste was confused.


    Why? Dens rules are strict at home, unlike when hes out, Sanford exined quickly.


    And you might be too busy to handle it all.


    Ste nodded, agreeing without much thought.


    Alright, I understand.