His Wicked Obsession (Archer and Virginia) novel Chapter 13

Franklin's tone shifted to something more deliberate. "Virginia, allow me to introduce my underachieving grandson, Valentin. Valentin, this is..."

"Virginia Caldwell. Virginia, I had no idea you were my grandfather's attending physician. It's an absolute pleasure." Valentin's lips curved into a charming smile as he smoothly took over the introduction.

He had already heard that his grandfather's new doctor was incredibly skilled and dedicated. He had been meaning to arrange a meeting, but to think it was actually Virginia all along.

It seemed the universe really wanted them to cross paths.

Virginia returned a polite smile, though internally, she was cringing at the awkwardness of it all.

"Alright, alright, why is everyone standing around? Valentin, invite Virginia to sit down!" Franklin's eyes twinkled with amusement.

Looking at the dynamic, he felt certain these two had a real shot...

Watching Virginia's soft, easy smile as the group chatted like old friends, Archer's expression tightened. Whether it was Virginia's imagination or not, a rare crack of discomfort fractured his usual icy facade.

"Mr. Hunter Sr., there's really no need, I should—" Virginia tried to decline.

"Since Grandpa asked you to stay, please do. It's almost time for dinner anyway. Consider it a thank-you for taking such good care of him. Stay and eat with us," Valentin insisted warmly.

He wasn't blind to the strange tension simmering between Archer and Virginia, but Archer was only here for business. Once they wrapped up, he'd leave. It shouldn't get too awkward.

Given the insistence, Virginia couldn't politely refuse again. She offered Franklin a warm smile. "Then I'd be honored to stay."

Thrilled, Franklin immediately instructed the kitchen staff to prepare the meal.

Archer and Valentin retreated to the study to discuss their deal, leaving Virginia to pass the time chatting with Franklin.

The older man didn't treat her like a stranger at all, regaling her with embarrassing stories of Valentin's childhood, which eventually helped Virginia relax.

Right before dinner was served, Valentin and Archer emerged from the study.

Being in a completely different field, Virginia rarely chimed in, opting to simply smile and nod politely throughout the meal.

That was until the third course arrived—pea puree paired with smoked trout. As the maid stepped in close to serve the dish, her tray tilted dangerously, sending the heavy plate hurtling straight toward Virginia.

Archer's gaze snapped sharp. Moving with lightning speed, he shielded her with his own body.

Startled, Virginia instinctively jerked her head up. Her soft red lips barely grazed his strong jawline. It was a fleeting, accidental touch, but a jolt of electricity seemed to crackle between them, leaving them both completely frozen.

Thankfully, the maid reacted in time, and the food didn't spill.

She apologized profusely, terrified of having offended such important guests.

Franklin slowly set down his silverware and dabbed his mouth with a napkin, his eyes gleaming with profound calculation. "Ahem. Virginia, are you alright?"

These two certainly didn't look like 'just acquaintances.' It seemed he needed to have someone look into their little history.