Chapter 174

No matter how he looked at it, Adrian felt like he'd gotten the short end of the stick.

His carefully protected little sister for all these years had been whisked away by his best friend.

Adrian couldn't help but click his tongue in disapproval, his brow furrowed. "What were you even thinking? That's my sister. How could you make a move on her?"

Marcus's ears burned with embarrassment. He had indeed developed feelings right under his friend's nose.

But thinking of the girl he loved, he mustered his courage. "I know I owe you an apology for this, but you share some blame too!"

Adrian shot him a cold glare.

"If you hadn't always asked me to look after her, we wouldn't have grown close over time."

"You!" Adrian was left speechless. It almost made sense, but it wasn't an excuse for Marcus to seize the opportunity.

Marcus quickly assured him, "Don't be angry. You know me better than anyone. I keep my word. I will treat her right."

Adrian glanced at him. Upon reflection, Marcus was indeed more reliable than some outsider.

Seeing how Sophia was utterly devoted to him made any further argument pointless.

His best friend becoming his brother-in-law gave him a headache just thinking about it.

He sighed, rubbing his forehead in resignation. "You'd better remember what you said. If you ever dare to hurt her, our friendship is over."

Seeing him relent, Marcus excitedly grabbed his hand. "You're the best, Adrian! I won't betray your trust!"

He thumped his chest in promise, grinning from ear to ear.

Adrian suppressed the urge to punch him, his voice cold. "Let go."

Two grown men pulling at each other was hardly appropriate.

Marcus immediately released his hand, still beaming. "Cousin, since we're family now, you'll put in a good word for me when I meet the parents, right?"

Cousin?

Adrian was stunned by his audacity. They weren't even at that stage yet.

"...Know your limits," he warned, his voice low.

Marcus, knowing not to push his luck, smiled and promised, "Don't worry, I know my boundaries. I won't overstep!"

Seeing his radiant smile, Adrian just wanted to roll his eyes. He couldn't be bothered to respond.

Through the glass, Sophia saw both men outside smiling. She poked Anna. "They seem to be getting along well. Let's go out and see!"

Anna smiled and nodded. Hand in hand, they walked outside.