Ivy had hoped that once Matthew got all his memories back from their past life, things would get better between them, perhaps even rekindling the warmth they once shared.
But reality slapped her in the face.
When Matthew's memories returned, he didn't get all tender and loving. Instead, he became even more determined to push her to reincarnate, like he wanted to wipe out every trace of their connection.
The love in her eyes turned to cold hatred.
Her heart was burning with anger and disappointment, and she spat out, "I curse you, Matthew. I curse you to never find true love in this life, and anyone you care about will betray you."
Hearing her harsh words, I couldn't help but frown, thinking, 'what's the point of this?'
I got her pain and anger, but that curse seemed like overkill, like she wanted to ruin Matthew's future completely.
However, Matthew stayed calm. He didn't get mad or upset at Ivy's curse.
The warmth in his eyes was gone, replaced by a deep indifference. "I know you hate me, Ivy."
He said it so calmly, without a hint of emotion, "If cursing me makes you feel better, then go ahead. I accept it."
Matthew's calmness made Ivy's anger seem weak and pointless. She had expected him to react, perhaps argue or try to make things right.
But her curse turned into a solo performance, while Matthew had already exited their story.
In the mess of this life and the last, Matthew's feelings were never pure; his emotions for Ivy were always tangled up with complicated memories.
Even though he had feelings for her, his rational mind reminded they weren't pure, mixed up with too many past memories and present complications.
At this critical moment, Aiden spoke up, "Ms. Price, we've kept our promise to you. Now, let me send you to the afterlife."
Hearing Aiden, Ivy seemed to lose all her strength. Her eyes were filled with complex emotions, and she gave Matthew a deep look, full of helplessness, sadness, and reluctance.
Then, without another word, she stepped into the artifact Aiden had prepared.
Aiden let out a long sigh of relief, finally wrapping things up. He turned to me, "Thanks for all your hard work. I'll take care of Ivy's matter. The Martinez family has a new task, and you and Wesley will handle it together."
I was surprised. "Just Wesley and me?"
I was doubtful. Could the two of us really handle it?
Aiden noticed my concern and gave a reassuring smile. "Don't worry. This task is important, but I am well aware of both your abilities. I believe you can handle it. And if you run into any trouble, the Martinez family will back you up."
"But..."
"Trust yourself; you got this." Aiden patted my shoulder with a smile.
I was speechless. I thought, 'Seriously, Aiden, you're way too confident in us.'
"We haven't learned anything yet. Aren't we just being sent to our deaths?" I retorted, feeling pretty helpless.
Aiden just waved his hand dismissively. "Don't worry; I've got everything set up for you."
Then he called over the butler, who was holding a stack of books. "These are some basic introductory books. Amelia mentioned you're a quick learner, so you should be able to get through these fast."
Aiden pointed to the pile of books, his eyes full of expectation. "The task is next week, so you've got five days. Believe in yourself." He emphasized again, like he was trying to pump me up.
Amelia raised her hand cautiously and asked, "Grandpa, can I go with Karena and Wesley? Maybe I can help."
I immediately looked at her with gratitude. 'Amelia, you are such a good friend!'
Aiden glanced at her and agreed. "If you're interested, you can go."
I left the Martinez Villa with the books, feeling pretty troubled. Aiden had given me ten books, and after giving Wesley his share, I still had five left. Was it conceivable for me to complete them within five days through diligent exertion? I really doubted it.
But Aiden's words kept echoing in my head, "Believe in yourself."
My gaze fell on Matthew, who had been silent the whole time, and I suddenly remembered that I hadn't asked Aiden if Matthew's memories of his past life would affect him now.
"Matthew, are you feeling okay?" I tried to ask in a relaxed tone, feeling a bit uneasy.
Matthew looked up slowly when he heard my voice. His eyes showed a hint of fatigue, but he managed a faint smile. "I'm fine; don't worry."
But his expression and tone told me that he had something in his mind.
"Matthew, maybe we should ask Mr. Martinez to help you erase the memories of the past life." I cautiously suggested.
Matthew gently shook his head, "No need."
Just as I was about to persuade him further, Matthew seemed to read my thoughts and continued, "Actually, I never remembered the past life."
"Huh?" I felt a bit confused, not sure how to understand his words.
Matthew looked at me with a smile, his eyes flashing with an elusive light. He explained softly, "Mr. Martinez didn't make me remember the past life; we just played along."
"Then..." I was at a loss for words for a moment.
Seeing my unease, he smiled gently. "So don't worry; I'm fine."
I hesitated for a moment, still bemused. "Matthew, how do you feel about Ivy?"
Matthew shook his head, his expression complicated. "Honestly, I don't even know."
His voice was low and confused, as if he really couldn't understand his own emotions.
He thought he had no feelings for Ivy—after all, their acquaintance was just because Ivy used a little trick.
But knowing their past and present lives, how could he remain indifferent?
In this life, he had never wronged anyone, and his temperament was gentle, never making enemies. Ivy's presence was like an insurmountable obstacle lodged within his heart, causing him to question whether he could ever resume living in tranquility as he once had.