This scene caught mepletely off guard, and in an instant, I snapped back to my senses.


    It was… awkward.


    A woman, caught between two men.


    At that moment, I had to make a decision to break the tension. But one thing was crystal clear to me: Philip and I would never happen.


    If I had to choose between the two of them, it would only be Josh.


    After all, Alvin and I were so close to marriage. I couldn’t just break up with him and then immediately turn to Philip. That kind of transition was impossible.


    “Philip, I’m tired,” I spoke up, breaking the silence.


    Philip tightened his grip on my hand, but after a long moment, he finally let go.


    Josh took my hand and led me away. I didn’t look back, but I could feel Philip’s gaze following me, lingering.


    Whether it was the alcohol or my mind in turmoil, I suddenly missed a step on the hotel stairs. Before I knew it, I felt mysel being lifted into Josh’s arms.


    “Put me down,” I gripped his shirt.


    “Shut up and don’t speak if you want him to give up on you,” Josh growled softly.


    His words echoed Philip’s, and I fell silent, letting Josh carry me without resistance. I could get tangled with anyone, but with Philip, I absolutely couldn’t.


    I thought of him like a brother-truly, like family. Never had I considered anything more. That bond was precious to me, and I didn’t want it to be destroyed.


    Philip was reserved, not one to easily express his feelings, but he wasn’t the type to cling or persist.


    If I let him think I had feelings for someone else besides Alvin, he would likely step back.


    Josh finally set me down in the hotel lobby, but he didn’t let go of me. He carried me all the way to the door of my room.


    I could see through Philip’s intentions, but I wasn’t blind to Josh’s feelings either.


    Since I was cutting off Philip’s advances, I might as well do the same for Josh.


    When Josh finally let go of me, I didn’t release him. Instead, I kept my grip on his shirt, my eyes boldly meeting his.


    “Josh, you’re really handsome,” I said, my words daring.


    He looked back at me with confidence. “Mm.”


    I smiled, my fingers tracing lightly over his sharp nose. “I bet a lot of girls like you, right?”


    “Mm,” he confirmed, undeniably self-assured.


    Iughed, bringing my fingers to the corner of his eyes. “Myra likes you too.”


    I wasn’t betraying Myra-her feelings were as obvious as day. If Josh hadn’t seen it, he was blind. Even if I didn’t say anything, it was in as day.


    “Then what about you? Do you like me?” This time, Josh didn’t hum in response but went straight for the question.


    I paused, taken aback, then shook my head. “No.”


    Josh’s eyes flickered for a moment, but he didn’t ask me why.


    Instead, I spoke again, “Josh, I don’t want a man who chases after other women. I don’t likepeting for attention. I just want someone who’s mine, even if they’re not as handsome as you.”


    “Okay,” he said, his voice steady.


    Iughed, puzzled. “What does ‘okay’ mean?”


    He shrugged casually. “It means I understand.”


    His response left me a little off bnce, but I wasn’t nning to dwell on it. My hand slid from his jaw to his shoulder. “Josh, don’t tempt me, and don’t be too nice to me…”


    As I spoke, I started to pull away, but Josh had already looped his arm around my waist.


    “If I like you and want to pursue you, that’s my business. Whether you respond or not is up to you. Just take care of yourself, and don’t expect me to stop,” he said, his tone resolute.


    I was confused.


    He liked me, but he was telling me not to interfere?