How do I merge two vector objecs without loosing the inner strokes?

[Anna Isma]

How do I merge two vector objecs without loosing the inner strokes?

[Semaphoric · Accepted solution]

In the options, use "Exclude Overlapping Objects".

[Anna Isma]

Thank you so much, it totally worked

[lambiloon]

Hi after doing merge shapes you have to do merge components...regards

[Anna Isma]

The inner shape becomes a path after I merge them. Merging shape components removes the inner path completely 

[Anna Isma]

Wait, you have the perfect result that I am aiming to achieve but I am certainly doing something wrong even with the help of your instructions. What Ps version are you using and can you list the steps that you did to make that shape? I would be very grateful.