Chapter 608

In the past, Imogen had never allowed Johanna to lift a finger. She treated Johanna like a sister, showering her with gifts, clothes, and jewelry, sparing no expense. Imogen even enrolled Johanna in a prestigious school with over a million dollars in annual tuition, providing every opportunity to secure her future.

Reflecting now, all that effort seemed wasted.

Johanna, dumbfounded, pointed at herself. "Me? You want me to do it? Isn't clearing the table the maid's job? Why should I?"

Imogen replied calmly, "It's simply clearing the table, Johanna. Are you truly unwilling to even do that?"

Johanna began to refuse, but Archie's warning glance stopped her. Reluctantly, she stood and began clearing the table, a disgruntled expression on her face. Meanwhile, Archie attentively helped Imogen lie down, offering her refreshments. When the moment seemed right, he sighed and said slowly, "Darling, you must prepare yourself for what's to come with Mr. Russell."

Imogen's heart sank. Unconnected thoughts suddenly coalesced. A man who had faked his death for nearly six months had returned. And on that very day, Stephan had been poisoned. The only people with direct contact with Stephan were the Russell family's trusted aides and… Archie.

The reason for Archie's return…

Imogen clenched her fists, but feigned sadness, sobbing, "He's my only remaining family. This is my fault. I'll never forgive myself if anything happens to him!"

"Darling, this isn't your fault. Don't worry yourself," Archie comforted her. "But if this news spreads, the Russell family's relatives and enemies will attack us!"

Archie pressed his lips together, carefully concealing his ambitions, speaking with apparent concern for the family.

"In my opinion, the Russell family can only rely on you now. But since you're unable to see, why not entrust the family's authority to me? I can stabilize the situation, protect you and our child!"

Imogen stared, shocked.

Even though she had already discerned Archie's true nature, his words still chilled her. He wanted control of the entire Russell family!

From the beginning, his approach hadn't been driven by affection; she had merely been a means to his end—power and control of the Russell family.

Though she thought herself hardened to pain, an ache still spread through her chest.

"Archie," she said softly, "I know you mean well, but the Russell family is my responsibility. Don't worry. I carry the Russell family's blood, and I won't yield. I will eliminate anyone who dares covet my family!"

Her smile was warm and gentle, but her words held a chilling ruthlessness.

For a moment, Archie felt a jolt of fear. He almost believed Imogen had seen through him. But he quickly dismissed the thought as impossible.

Imogen trusted him implicitly, depended on him, loved him deeply. She was merely a blind woman, unknowing. Her words must have stemmed from concern for him, not wanting him to overwork himself.

Yes, that must be it.

Archie gently caressed Imogen's face. She stared blankly, her unfocused eyes revealing nothing. In her beautiful pupils, only his reflection remained.

Archie reminded himself not to rush. "Darling, do you distrust me? Is that why you won't give me the family seal?"