The Charming Ex-Wife (Lysander and Josiah) novel Chapter 7

Chapter 7 You Shouldn't Touch That Pocket
Lysander was unsure if pure friendship could exist between men and women, but she could tell that Josiah had consumed a bit too much alcohol.

The wine decanter had long vanished from his hand suggesting that the mineral water inside had depleted. And he was being urged by several people to drink more.

Lysanne was trying hard to stop the drunken men, but her efforts were futile with her large belly.

Meanwhile, Josiah was coerced into drinking several more cups, which caused his steps to become unsteady.

Then, Lysander stood up and declared, "Sorry, I'll check on Josiah first."

Miles refrained from making any odd comments and just simply nodded. "Alright, go ahead."

Lysander hurried over and was just in time to snatch the wine glass from Josiah's hand as it was being refilled.

"Hey, who's this woman?"

Ignoring the question, she grasped Josiah's arm and inquired, "Josiah, are you alright?"

He gazed at her for a moment before recognizing her and shook his head slightly. "I'm fine."

Their conversation was hushed, preventing the drunken group from overhearing. Assuming she was hotel staff, they moved to grab her while exclaiming, "Who do you think you are to approach Josiah like this? Are you out of your..."

However, Josiah pulled his hand, shielded Lysander behind him, and sternly stated, "Don't touch her."

"Josiah, why are you defending her? This woman seems to have ulterior motives. I've encountered many like her."

"She's my wife."

The drunkard sobered up instantly, his face turning pale as he looked at Lysander being protected by Josiah. He then turned to Lysanne, whose face was pale, and asked with confusion, "If she's your wife, then what about Lysanne?"

All eyes shifted to Lysanne standing in the back who was still clutching onto Josiah's suit jacket, She appeared displeased with a hint of redness around her eyes. "I've said it before. Josiah and I are just friends."

Despite her smile, it seemed strained and unnatural. The onlookers were not oblivious to the complexity of the situation. Lysanne's expression hinted at something more was at play.

"Josiah, you and Lysanne..."

Regaining his composure, Josiah returned to his usual demeanor and softly replied, "It's getting late. Let's all head home. Lysander, let's go."

Lysander nodded in agreement. "Okay."

She then turned to Lysanne and extended her hand. "Thank you, Miss Thorne. You can give me Josiah's jacket."

Lysanne clung onto the suit jacket tightly refusing to let go. "I'll be going back with you anyway, so I'll hold onto it."