His Wicked Obsession (Archer and Virginia) novel Chapter 334

No demands, no probing—only raw, unhidden heartache.

A sudden lump formed in her throat. She lowered her eyelashes, avoiding his burning gaze.

"It's all in the past."

There was no melodrama, no pouring out of grievances. If anything, it sounded like she was comforting him.

Archer's heart ached, and he leaned in closer.

"...Virginia, I'm sorry."

He spoke the words incredibly softly, yet they carried a crushing weight of extreme remorse.

If only he had known back then...

The suffocating guilt drove him to instinctively lean forward and press his lips softly against hers.

It was a remarkably peaceful kiss.

There was no aggressive conquest, no burning lust.

He cherished her lips, tracing them gently, his movements so delicate it was as if he were afraid of breaking a priceless treasure.

Archer's large hand cradled the back of her neck while his other arm wrapped securely around her waist, pulling her entirely into his embrace.

Virginia rested her hands against his chest, able to clearly feel the strong, steady beat of his heart.

When the kiss ended, he pulled back just a fraction, resting his forehead against hers.

"Are you hungry? Is there anything you're craving? I'll cook," he asked, steadying his breathing.

It wasn't until he stepped into the kitchen that Virginia snapped out of her daze. She stared at his retreating back, feeling completely stunned for a moment.

He actually hadn't mentioned Chloe. Not a single word.

...

Dinner was ready—a simple savory soup, sautéed greens, BBQ ribs, and a side of healthy grains.

Just as Archer set the soup on the table, the phone resting on the kitchen island suddenly buzzed.

Archer took the stairs two at a time, his voice like ice. "Where is the spare key? Go get it!"

"Here, sir! I have it!"

The returning maid handed it over like a lifeline, finding her center now that he had arrived.

With a dark expression, he shoved the key into the lock. With a sharp click, the door swung open.

The sight inside made Archer's breath hitch for a second.

Chloe was collapsed on the carpet, her hair a disheveled mess, wildly swinging a pair of sharp scissors in her hand.

Toby was huddled in the corner of the bed, his tiny body curled into a tight ball. A bloody gash marked his small arm, the crimson liquid dripping down and nearly soaking the carpet beneath him.

"Stay back! All of you, stay back!" Chloe's eyes were bloodshot, her expression utterly unhinged. "Archer doesn't want me anymore, and he doesn't want Toby either... I'm going to take Toby to die with me!"

Archer's face was ice-cold as he slowed his pace, walking toward her step by step.

"Chloe, put the scissors down." His voice was heavy.