His Wicked Obsession (Archer and Virginia) novel Chapter 281

Helena Vanderbilt smiled, retracting her gaze. "Is your ankle feeling any better? Archer mentioned you twisted it, and I've been worried sick."

As a psychologist, Virginia Caldwell easily saw through the older woman's underlying intentions. She offered a soft, knowing smile. "It doesn't hurt anymore, Helena."

"Still so formal?" Helena frowned, giving her a playful, reproachful look before patting her hand affectionately. "Was that fragrance-appreciation class too boring? I was afraid you'd be trapped there, so I came to rescue you."

"Vanderbilt Fine Jewelry just received a new batch of haute couture pieces yesterday. I'll take you to pick some out. Grab whatever catches your eye—Archer is footing the bill, so just have fun with it."

"As for anything else, whatever you like, just buy it. I'll cover the cost."

Helena kept talking as she pulled Virginia toward the exit. The wealthy socialites standing behind them overheard every word, their jaws nearly dropping to the floor.

Was this the ex-mother-in-law Virginia had mentioned? Was she actually the matriarch of the Vanderbilt family?!

Furthermore, this wasn't just 'treating her well.' She was spoiling Virginia as if she were her own biological daughter!

...

On the first floor of The Grand Galleria, the largest luxury shopping center in the capital.

Helena had her arm looped affectionately through Virginia's as they strolled past a high-end boutique's window display. Suddenly, they collided with two familiar figures.

Chloe Caldwell.

She was wearing a pure white silk slip dress with a thin cardigan draped over her shoulders. Her long hair tumbled down her back, maintaining that innocent, harmless facade she always wore.

Beside her stood Liam Kendrick, dressed in a light blue casual button-down, his hands weighed down by four or five shopping bags plastered with various luxury logos.

As the four came face-to-face, Chloe's footsteps skidded to a dead halt.

Her eyes locked onto Helena and Virginia's linked arms for two full seconds, a dark wave of jealousy churning in her gaze.

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