Hearing her words, Joseph’s heart leaped with an overwhelming excitement. He didn't respond immediately, letting the silence stretch as a slow smile spread across his face.
So, it wasn't just him. The joy of knowing their feelings were mutual filled him with an indescribable delight.
Vivica, however, saw his silence and inexplicable smile and felt a mix of nervousness and confusion, her face turning a deep shade of red.
"What are you smiling at?" she asked, frowning.
Joseph composed himself slightly, turning to her with a burning gaze. "My wife just confessed her love for me. I'm happy. Should I be crying instead?"
Vivica’s cheeks grew even warmer. She bit her lip and asked shyly, "So, does that mean you... you feel the same—"
If someone was happy about a confession, it must mean they liked the other person too, right? Otherwise, it would just be an inconvenience. So, Vivica wanted to ask if he liked her back. But she stopped herself mid-sentence. Asking the question felt a little desperate, as if she were begging for his affection. She didn’t want to seem so needy or put any pressure on him.
"Feel the same what? Why didn't you finish?" Joseph noticed her suddenly pressing her lips together and asked gently, his gaze growing more intense, filled with a deep affection.
Vivica glanced at him, then abruptly changed the subject. "It's nothing. We should hurry upstairs. Chaim must be getting impatient, and this will let Sheridan and Melanie go home and rest."
Before she could finish, she turned to get out of the car, but Joseph grabbed her hand, stopping her.
Vivica looked back. "What is it?"
Joseph took a moment to gather his thoughts, his deep, captivating eyes fixed on her face. He then asked softly, "Were you about to ask if I like you too?"
Vivica’s heart skipped a beat. Her eyelashes fluttered as she looked at him.
As a wave of shy dizziness washed over her, Vivica couldn't help but smile, just as Joseph had moments before.
"You're so smart, and you've been married before. You should have enough experience to understand a man's intentions. I can't believe you still had to ask," Joseph teased, his tone light and free of any jealousy or judgment about her past.
Vivica’s heart raced, and her head felt light, like she was walking on air. She swallowed, forcing herself to calm down before looking at him. "So, does that mean you like me?"
"You're still asking," Joseph said, exasperated.
Vivica smiled. "But you've done so much without ever saying anything. How was I supposed to know I wasn't just misreading the signs?"
"You've known me for some time now. Do I seem like the kind of person who spouts sweet nothings?" Joseph asked.

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