This wasn’t the first time Johanna had witnessed such a scene. She knew there had been far bolder acts in ces she couldn’t see, and they also carried the title of husband and wife, making everything they did justifiable.
She constantly reminded herself that Archie was only acting, that he was merely ying along to further his ns and that his affection for Imogen<b>, </b>the older woman, was purely a scheme.
as
The inexplicable jealousy and searing anger in Johanna’s heart still felt like knives stabbing her. It caused an unbearable ache.
She clenched her tists tightly, but she pretended as though she hadn’t seen a thing. Maintaining her innocent expression and lively tone, she not only refrained from leaving the room but boldly stepped forward to stand in front of Imogen.
“megen, my brother <b>really </b>adores you. The first thing he did aftering back was to rush over to see you. Hepletely forgot about me, his sister.”
Her words sounded lighthearted and teasing on the surface, but they carried <b>a </b>subtle sharpness.
Archie nced at her, his gaze carrying a hint of both warning and helplessness
Fortunately, Imogen was entirely immersed in her happiness and noticed nothing amiss. She smiled and nodded. “Your brother was just worried about me and couldn’t wait toe back I was going to tell you the good news myself, but you came even faster.”
“The whole Russell family has been talking about it. It’s only natural that I found out!”
Johanna’s words were directed at Imogen, but her eyes remained fixed on Archie. Her gaze, tinged with stubbornness and jealousy, shimmered faintly with tears as if to say, “Of course, I came. How else would I know you two were so engrossed in your kisses?”
Archie silently mouthed an exnation, “We didn’t kiss. We really didn’t.”
Johanna turned her face away, clearly unconvinced
Anyone paying attention would have noticed something unusual in the air. However, <b>Imogen</b>, being blind, was blissfully unaware. This emboldened Archie and Johanna, who frequently exchanged covert gestures<b>, </b>including secret hand–holding
Unaware of anything, Imogen continued, “It’s good that Archie is back. The Russell family is such a mess, and I can’t handle it all on my own. With him. here, I can finally rx a little.”
“Yeah. Focus on getting better. Don’t worry about anything else.”
Archie ced a cup of warm water by her bedside. As he turned, he noticed that Johanna was on the verge of tears. Something within him softened, and a strange thrill coursed through his veins.
He reached out, pulled Johanna into his arms, and kissed her.
Johanna didn’t dare make a sound. After a brief moment of surprise<b>, </b>the bitterness in her heart dissipated entirely, and she eagerly responded to him.
Imogen sat on the bed, oblivious to the tant acts of the pair right under her nose.
It wasn’t until a knock on the door broke the moment that the two finally separated.
A maid entered, pushing a food cartden with <b>a </b>nutritious postpartum meal. The dishes were light on oil and salt, perfectly bnced with meat <b>and </b>vegetables. They were meticulously prepared by <b>a </b>nutritionist based on Imogen’s preferences.
Archie returned to his usual demeanor, taking the spoon from the housekeeper and feeding Imogen <b>personally</b>.
The housekeeper couldn’t help butment enviously, “Mr. Rosario sure knows how to spoil Ms. Russell<b>. </b>He’s even taken over our duties, letting us ck off *
Imogen chuckled and asked about the baby. Upon hearing that the little one had been fed and was now sound asleep under the care of others, she felt
reassured
After finishing her <b>meal</b>, Imogeny <b>back </b>down to rest. Archie tucked her in carefully before leaving the room
Throughout it all, Johanna remained silent, staying by his side. Her mood, however, was evidently lifted. Every now and then, she touched her lips, a faint smile ying on her face.
The maid noticed her odd behavior but assumed she was in love and tactfully refrained from asking. Instead, she remarked, “Sir, Ms. Rosario, you should Johanna was about to nod when Archie spoke up indifferently, “No rush. I’ll go check on Mr. Russell first.”