His Wicked Obsession (Archer and Virginia) novel Chapter 71

"No, they know your situation."

He spoke coldly, his steps not pausing.

In the living room, Mr. and Mrs. Vanderbilt had been waiting for a long time.

Mrs. Vanderbilt, Helena, was in her early fifties, but looked much younger.

She wore a dark green silk blouse with pearl earrings, her hair meticulously pinned up, looking elegant and dignified.

When they came in, Helena glanced at Chloe and nodded faintly. "Dinner is ready. Come sit."

During dinner, the atmosphere was not warm. Chloe was acting timid and cautious, like she was being bullied, which Helena disliked even more.

Helena put down her silverware, suddenly losing her appetite.

"You've been back for a while. I suppose you've seen Virginia?"

Chloe's hand holding her fork paused, a flash of jealousy in her eyes.

Why did the old lady still care about that bitch who left the Vanderbilt family five years ago!

Helena seemed oblivious to their discomfort and continued.

"When Virginia used to be at home, no matter how busy she was, she would personally make soup for me. Knowing my knees hurt on rainy days, she'd have someone bring back ointment from abroad. And your father..."

Chloe looked embarrassed, her silverware clattering onto the table.

She looked down in a panic, eyelashes trembling, looking like she was about to cry.

"Mom, I... I know I'm not as good as Virginia, but I'm trying hard to be a good Mrs. Vanderbilt, I..."

Helena frowned.

"No talking at the dinner table." Archer frowned slightly, putting down his silverware, his voice deep. "Mom, eat."

Helena looked at Chloe's red eyes, then glared at her oblivious son.

Though angry, she said nothing more and took a sip of soup to calm down.

The table went quiet.

When Chloe picked up her silverware again, her hands were still shaking—out of anger.

"What Mrs. Vanderbilt." Helena walked over, naturally taking her hand and pulling her to sit on the sofa. "What did you used to call me?"

Virginia pressed her lips together and softly changed her address. "Helena."

"... Never mind, I won't make things difficult for you."

Helena patted her hand, looking her over again, her tone filled with heartache.

"I heard you opened a counseling clinic here a long time ago. I've always wanted to come see you, but never had the time. And you too, you never think to come see me when you're free."

Virginia sat down with her, a ripple of emotion in her heart.

For the past five years, the Vanderbilts had never reached out to her.

It was normal, considering her relationship with Archer had long ended.

"Helena, I'm doing fine."

"Fine? How is this fine?" Helena frowned. "Your face is smaller, and you have dark circles under your eyes. It's obvious you're staying up late. Did I not tell you when you were at home, youth is not an excuse to neglect your health..."