This wasn’t the first time Johanna had witnessed such a scene. She knew of far bolder acts, hidden from her view, committed by those who, as husband and wife, deemed their actions justifiable. She constantly reminded herself that Archie was acting, playing a role to further his plans, his affection for Imogen a mere scheme.
The inexplicable jealousy and searing anger in Johanna's heart felt like knives. It caused an unbearable ache. She clenched her fists, but pretended to see nothing. Maintaining an innocent expression and lively tone, she not only stayed but boldly stepped forward, positioning herself before Imogen.
“Imogen, my brother truly adores you. The first thing he did upon returning was rush to see you. He completely forgot about me, his sister.”
Her words, lighthearted and teasing on the surface, held a subtle sharpness. Archie glanced at her, his gaze a mixture of warning and helplessness.
Fortunately, Imogen, lost in her happiness, noticed nothing amiss. She smiled and nodded. “Your brother was just worried about me and couldn’t wait to return. I was going to tell you the good news myself, but you arrived even faster.”
“The whole Russell family has been talking about it. It’s only natural I found out!”
Johanna’s words were directed at Imogen, but her eyes remained fixed on Archie. Her gaze, stubborn and jealous, shimmered faintly with unshed tears, silently conveying, “Of course, I came. How else would I know you two were so engrossed in your kisses?”
Archie silently mouthed, “We didn’t kiss. We really didn’t.”
Johanna turned away, unconvinced. Anyone paying attention would have sensed the unusual tension. However, Imogen, oblivious, remained blissfully unaware. This emboldened Archie and Johanna, who frequently exchanged covert gestures, including secret hand-holding.
Unaware, Imogen continued, “It’s good Archie’s back. The Russell family is such a mess; I can’t handle it alone. With him here, I can finally relax.”
“Yes. Focus on getting better. Don’t worry about anything else.”
Archie placed a cup of warm water by her bedside. Turning, he saw Johanna on the verge of tears. Something within him softened; a strange thrill coursed through his veins. He pulled Johanna into his arms and kissed her.
Johanna didn’t make a sound. After a brief moment of surprise, the bitterness in her heart dissipated, and she eagerly responded. Imogen, on the bed, remained oblivious to the blatant display unfolding before her.
A knock on the door broke the moment. A maid entered, pushing a food cart laden with a nutritious postpartum meal—light on oil and salt, perfectly balanced, meticulously prepared by a nutritionist based on Imogen’s preferences.
Archie resumed his usual demeanor, taking the spoon and feeding Imogen. The housekeeper couldn’t help but comment enviously, “Mr. Rosario sure knows how to spoil Ms. Russell. He’s even taken over our duties!”
Imogen chuckled and inquired about the baby. Hearing the little one was fed and asleep, she felt reassured. After finishing her meal, Imogen lay back to rest. Archie tucked her in before leaving the room.
Throughout, Johanna remained silent, staying by his side, her mood visibly lifted. Every now and then, she touched her lips, a faint smile playing on her face. The maid noticed her odd behavior but, assuming she was in love, tactfully refrained from comment. Instead, she remarked, “Sir, Ms. Rosario, you should—”
Johanna was about to nod when Archie interrupted indifferently, “No rush. I’ll check on Mr. Russell first.”