His Wicked Obsession (Archer and Virginia) novel Chapter 53

By the time she was halfway through her meal, Virginia felt noticeably more relaxed.

She had to admit, the quality at Lyle's Kitchen was as impeccable as ever. The slow-cooked chicken soup was rich but not heavy, and it left her feeling warm all over.

She stole another glance at the man across from her. Archer was a quiet eater, his posture perfect, his movements meticulous and unhurried.

His suit jacket was draped over the back of his chair, and his shirt sleeves were rolled up twice, exposing his strong wrists. Adorning one wrist was the dark sandalwood bracelet he always wore.

Just as the atmosphere settled into something subtle and delicate, Archer's phone suddenly rang.

He looked down at the caller ID, hesitated for a fraction of a second, and answered.

Virginia wasn't trying to eavesdrop, but the hospital room was small, and the voice on the other end was perfectly audible.

"Archer, where are you? I'm home alone, and I'm a little scared..."

It was Chloe. Her voice was soft, heavy with dependence, and laced with a subtle whine.

Archer frowned slightly, his tone softening considerably. "Where are your parents and Toby?"

"Mom and Dad took Toby out to the countryside... It's just me here..."

"Don't be scared. Lock the windows. I'll be home soon."

"Archer..."

"Be good."

Virginia froze, an indescribable nausea churning in her stomach.

The fleeting warmth from moments ago suddenly felt like a cruel joke.

She set her chopsticks down, rapidly pulling herself out of her misplaced sentimentality.

When Archer ended the call and turned back, he was met with her guarded, icy stare.

He frowned.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify