Along with Stephan’s prolonged absence, many were probing for information. It wouldn't be long before the truth—Stephan's poisoning and coma—became known.

Hearing this, Imogen clenched her fists, then slowly released them with a cold laugh. A rare look of ruthlessness appeared on her face. “If that’s the case, there’s no need to hide it. Let the news spread. Spread it as widely as possible! I’d like to see who dares cause trouble!”

Andy and Stanley exchanged surprised glances. They both knew Imogen to be gentle and prone to tears. Yet, after giving birth, she seemed to have found her footing, exuding a decisive presence worthy of the Russell family name.

“As you command, Ms. Russell,” they both replied, bowing their heads.

After addressing other matters, Andy left. Stanley hesitated, then turned back. “Ms. Russell, you need to be cautious of Johanna.”

“What do you mean?” she asked.

“Johanna has stirred up trouble repeatedly. Her intentions aren’t pure. If she hadn’t provoked you and sowed discord, you wouldn’t have spoken as you did, and Mr. Russell wouldn’t have injured his eyes.”

Stanley paused, considering. After leaving the rainforest, Stephan had shown signs of wanting to deal with Johanna permanently; however, he’d held back for Archie and Imogen’s sake. He’d planned to remove Johanna from Imogen’s life upon their return to Seldvale, but before he could act, the poisoning led to his coma.

“Ms. Russell, Johanna is far more cunning than she appears. She’s used you as a pawn many times. I fear she might—”

“Enough!” Imogen interrupted coldly. “Johanna is my sister. She has no other family, only me, her sister-in-law. With her brother gone, it’s my duty to care for her. I don’t want to hear another word about this. You are forbidden from speaking of it again!”

Stanley lowered his head and left. Silence enveloped the room. Imogen leaned back, resting her head against the headboard. Closing her eyes, she murmured, “Archie, if only you were still here…”

Meanwhile, in Seldvale, roughly nine miles from the Russell estate, soft whispers echoed through an apartment. “Archie… Archie… Arch…” The sounds continued before quieting. Johanna rested against Archie, a smug grin on her face. “That old hag keeps calling your name, crying every time she mentions you, but she’ll never know you’re back and right here with me!”

“Sheesh, you can be so petty,” Archie remarked, gently pinching her nose, his eyes overflowing with affection.

“Hmph! Are you saying you don’t like it?”

“I do. How could I not?” Archie chuckled, about to continue when his phone rang. The device, equipped with anti-tracking and anti-surveillance systems, was linked to a private, untraceable number. Only one person could contact him through it.

His expression turned serious. He gestured for Johanna to be quiet, then answered. “Speak. What’s the matter?”

“There’s been a change of plans.” The voice was smooth and cultured, yet cold and ruthless. “Stephan has a strong will to live. He’s still alive. You need to act and eliminate him.”