The dazed look on Harry's face disappeared as he turned to me uncomfortably.

"Cheryl, don't get the wrong idea. We were just messing around."

Only then did Vivian leave Harry's embrace, acting like she'd just realized the situation:

"Dr. Green... I'm so sorry! This is just how I act with my friends. I promise I won't fool around like this again."

As Vivian made her promise with raised hands, she stuck out her tongue sheepishly.

Seeing her cute expression, Harry's face softened into a smile, and he reached out to ruffle her hair.

His hand stopped mid-air as if remembering something, and he smoothly pulled it back.

Watching how Harry's eyes still lingered on Vivian with that doting look, even after withdrawing his hand,

I suddenly felt exhausted.

This daily drama - whoever wants to watch it can watch it from now on.

"It's fine, no need to explain. I honestly think you two make a great couple."

"Keep playing! Is the space too small? Should we leave to give you some privacy?"

An eerie silence fell over the room. My colleagues exchanged uncomfortable glances, not daring to say a word.

Tears spilled from Vivian's eyes, "Dr. Green... I'm really sorry, I didn't know this would upset you so much..."

Harry's expression darkened as he came over to grab my arm:

"Why do you have to make a scene at my celebration? So what if she's a bit playful? Why are you making such a big deal out of this?"

"Vivian is my personal intern, and I'll need her help with many things in the future. Would you be happy if we couldn't even speak to each other anymore?"

[Continuing the translation...]

Harry stood protectively in front of Vivian, looking at me with his usual impatience and defensiveness.

I guessed he probably thought I was about to "make a scene" again, like before.

After all, since Harry personally chose Vivian as his intern, I had protested countless times about their endless "necessary work interactions."

I'd cried and thrown fits, but Harry always had endless excuses.

"Vivian fed me because she's allergic to seafood - you wouldn't want her work in the department to be affected, would you?"

"Vivian's dog died - what's wrong with me giving her a comforting hug? Cheryl, why are your thoughts always so twisted?"