Chapter 21

"Bro," Josh said with visible agitation, his facial expression reflecting his growing upset, "she can't stay here alone with you. Not anymore."

“Oh, really?” Ian, rising from the bed, countered with a question, "And why not?"

"Because I said so," Josh replied, his tone implying a potential escalation in the situation. I could not tell if this was going to lead to a violent confrontation or just a heated argument.

Quickly gripping my hand tighter, Ian snapped back, "Who says that she can act according to what you want? You have no right. Who are you to tell her what to do? And why are you so desperate to take her away from me?"

"Pardon? I have no right? And you do?" Josh retorted, his grip tightening as well. "She is my best friend, and I don't trust you."

"Who asked you to trust me?" Ian responded, gritting his teeth and narrowing his eyes at Josh. "She is my