Chapter 22

Archie’s two older brothers were born to his father’s wife, while he himself was the son of the third mistress.

The Yoder matriarch—a fierce and ruthless woman—tolerated her husband’s affairs but drew the line when it came to anyone threatening her sons’ inheritance.

And so, after giving birth to Archie, his mother was frequently persecuted by her. The relentless torment eventually took its toll, causing her to suffer severe mental distress and instability.

Without his mother’s protection, Archie’s place within the Yoder family was precarious. His survival to this point had been nothing short of a miracle. From a young age, he learned to conceal his talents, playing the fool and projecting an image of incompetence to avoid Mrs. Yoder’s wrath.

Calliope had been so infatuated with Gideon in the past that she never really noticed Archie’s plight.

No matter the trouble she found herself in, Archie was always there—smiling, ready to help. Yet she had never realized just how dire his circumstances were.

It wasn’t until after her own demise in her past life that she learned the full extent of Archie’s hardships.

After taking control of the Yoder family, Archie had eliminated his two brothers without hesitation and driven Mrs. Yoder to madness.

Now, Calliope knew Archie was once again in a tough spot. Mrs. Yoder was scheming to force him into marrying into the Jansen family, trying to pair him with their rather eccentric and not-so-bright daughter. Archie was against it, but Mrs. Yoder used his own mother as leverage.

His father, seeing him as nothing more than a useless layabout, simply turned a blind eye.

Thinking about it now, Calliope’s heart ached for Archie. If only she had known sooner, perhaps his life wouldn’t have been so painful.

She remembered when they first met. She was staying at her grandfather’s place in the countryside, and Archie was living with his grandfather next door.

Back then, he hardly spoke, like a little mute. She would coax him out to catch frogs in the fields, fish in the creek, play all sorts of games, and share her favorite snacks with him.

Over time, he began to open up. As they grew older, their bond deepened, and Archie became like a protective brother to her.

“What could possibly be wrong with me? I’m carefree and happy as can be!” Archie said with his usual cheerful grin.

“Yeah, right. While we all worry, Archie just drifts around, lazing about without a care. What could possibly trouble him?” Portia chuckled.

Mavis, however, looked at Archie with a more serious expression.

Calliope’s voice softened. “Archie, I’ve always seen you as my own brother. If something’s bothering you, or if you ever need help, promise me you’ll tell me, okay?”

Archie met her gaze, and for a brief moment, it seemed like he wanted to say something.

But just as quickly, he brushed it off with a carefree shrug. “Sure thing, but for now, there’s nothing to worry about. I’m really fine.”

“Weren’t we planning to hit the shops? I’ll be your pack mule today!” Archie grinned. “Buy as much as you want—I’ll carry it all!”

Eamon had arranged a family dinner that night.