His Wicked Obsession (Archer and Virginia) novel Chapter 175

The employees of the UK Branch were lined up on both sides. Seeing her walk in, they called out in unison, "Happy Birthday, Ms. Caldwell!"

A lump formed in Virginia's throat, and she barely managed to hold back her tears.

Just then, Archer emerged from the crowd in a sharply tailored suit. He stopped in front of her, turned slightly, and extended his hand in a perfect, gentlemanly invitation.

She looked at his long, elegant fingers, and then up at his face.

The warm lighting cascaded over his brow, the bridge of his nose, and his sharp lips, casting his striking features in a breathtakingly handsome glow.

She offered a beautiful smile and placed her hand in his.

Just this once. She would indulge herself just this once...

The music began to play—a classic waltz. Archer's hand settled firmly on her waist, guiding her into a spin as Virginia followed his lead, the hem of her satin gown rippling beautifully around her ankles.

He was an excellent dancer, leading with flawless precision. As the song neared its end, he tightened his grip, pulling her half an inch closer.

The distance between them vanished, drawing them so close they were breathing the same air.

His eyes darkened. He lowered his head, his nose brushing lightly against hers.

Virginia's heart hammered so hard it felt like it would burst from her chest. Almost out of pure instinct, she closed her eyes.

But right at that moment, an uninvited memory exploded in her mind.

Chloe sobbing and collapsing in front of her, claiming she was pregnant with Archer's child, begging Virginia to let him go so they could be a family...

Virginia's eyes snapped open. She jerked her head to the side, and Archer's lips grazed the corner of her mouth, missing their mark.

His hand stiffened on her waist. He frowned but didn't push further.

Virginia took a half-step back, forcing a polite smile. "...The dance is over. Thank you, Mr. Vanderbilt."

With that, she turned and walked toward the cake, her steps perfectly steady, her back ramrod straight.

Archer stood frozen in place, staring at her retreating figure. His throat worked as he swallowed hard, and his hand, now hanging at his side, slowly curled into a fist until his knuckles turned white.

...

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