His Wicked Obsession (Archer and Virginia) novel Chapter 272

Seeing she wasn't in the mood to chat, the women tactfully backed off and returned to their own seats.

By six-thirty that evening at South Hill, Virginia had changed into comfortable loungewear. The moment she stepped out of her room, the mouthwatering aroma of dinner greeted her.

In the kitchen, Archer stood by the stove in his casual clothes, expertly prepping vegetables.

Knowing Virginia wasn't a fan of seafood, he had prepared a few of her favorites: truffle beef short ribs, sautéed asparagus, and a hearty short rib stew.

"Changed already?" Archer didn't turn around, having recognized her footsteps.

"Yeah." Virginia walked over, watching him flip the beef in the skillet from across the kitchen island. "Why are you cooking today?"

Zachary had once told him: The fastest way to a woman's heart is through her stomach.

Of course, Archer would never admit that out loud.

He plated the sizzling truffle short ribs and set them on the counter.

Lured in by the rich scent, Virginia completely forgot she had asked a question.

"Go sit in the dining room. The stew is almost ready."

...

Dinner was quiet and cozy.

Archer didn't talk much, but he was incredibly attentive, constantly serving choice cuts of meat to her and Cindy.

After dinner, Archer took an international business call while Virginia sat on the rug, helping the little girl with a puzzle.

"Ms. Caldwell, let me watch the little miss. Mr. Vanderbilt requested you join him in the home theater," a maid said gently.

Virginia paused, glancing around the room to find Archer already gone.

She was a bit surprised, wondering what he was up to, but she gave Cindy a quick hug and headed down the hall.

Virginia stiffened.

She could be utterly rational when researching medical journals or dealing with erratic patients, but she had an instinctive, paralyzing fear of horror movies.

The screen grew darker, the sound effects twisting into something grotesque.

Suddenly, with a deafening crash, a pale, mangled face slammed directly into the camera.

"Ah!" Virginia let out a sharp gasp, her eyes squeezing shut as she threw herself into the solid, warm chest beside her.

Archer smoothly wrapped his arms around her, pulling her onto his lap.

His large hand cradled the back of her head while the other supported her waist, pressing her face against his chest. He rubbed her back, coaxing her gently.

"Don't be scared. I'm right here."