His Wicked Obsession (Archer and Virginia) novel Chapter 82

Helena thoroughly enjoyed the attention.

On days when Virginia couldn't make it in time, Helena would appear at the preschool gates and whisk the little girl away to the historic Vanderbilt estate.

The estate was nestled halfway up the hillside—a sprawling, classic manor featuring a massive oak tree right in the center of the courtyard.

Cynthia adored that tree and was always gathering fallen leaves beneath its sweeping branches.

That particular day.

The moment Virginia finished her shift and found out her daughter had been taken to the Vanderbilt home, she immediately ordered a ride.

By the time the car pulled up outside the grand gates, dusk had already settled in.

Inside the courtyard, the warm amber glow of the porch lights illuminated two figures on the steps—one large, one small—casting long, stretching shadows across the stone.

It was Cynthia and Archer Vanderbilt.

The little girl was sitting on the steps, clutching a beautiful plush toy to her chest, her head tilted as she gazed down at the man in front of her.

Archer was crouched down before her, bending over to tie her shoelaces.

He wore a navy cashmere sweater layered over a crisp white collared shirt. His sleeves were rolled up to his forearms, and a dark wooden bracelet swayed gently around his wrist with every movement.

His back was perfectly straight, his head bowed slightly in absolute concentration.

Standing fifteen feet away, Virginia felt a sudden pang of reluctance to interrupt this fleeting moment of warmth.

But Cynthia must have sensed her presence. She whipped her head around, her eyes instantly lighting up. "Mommy!"

The second her shoelaces were secure, the little girl practically launched herself off the steps, her short legs carrying her as fast as they could.

She ran two steps before slamming on the brakes, spinning around as if remembering something crucial. She flashed a bright smile and waved at Archer.

"Bye-bye, Mr. Archer!"

Archer stood up to his full height, his long, elegant fingers brushing invisible dust from his knees. His gaze remained locked on the tiny, bright-colored figure the entire time.

Virginia bent down to catch Cynthia, crouching to zip up her little jacket before finally standing up to meet his eyes.

"Thank you. It's getting late, so I won't come inside. Please thank Helena for me..."

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