Chapter 609
Possession of the Russell family seal meant control of their empire—access to billions in assets locked away in bank vaults: antiques, gold, and countless priceless artifacts. Any one of these items alone would spark fierce competition.
Archie yearned to force Imogen to reveal the seal's location, but his carefully cultivated cover restrained him. Years of service to the Russells had instilled patience, but his ambition simmered. Remaining a subordinate would never suffice; thus, he'd schemed his way into Imogen's affections and married her.
Even then, he only confirmed the existence of two seals: one held by Stephan, the other by Imogen. Stephan, suspicious from the outset, thwarted Archie at every turn. Desperation led Archie to fake his death and steal a map, yet even that proved insufficient to locate the treasure.
Everything shifted when Imogen's pregnancy was revealed. He forged a secret alliance with the Carrells, returning to the Russells with a new strategy. He would help the Carrells eliminate Stephan in exchange for their support in making him head of the family.
The plan unfolded smoothly. Stephan, the primary obstacle, was successfully poisoned. Now, only Imogen stood between Archie and his goal.
“Darling,” Archie began, his voice smooth, “why the formality? I’m your husband, your most important person! I only want to help you bear this burden. As your husband and father of our child, protecting you both is my duty. Give me the seal. I’ll return it once things settle, okay?”
His feigned devotion might have swayed a less perceptive listener. Imogen sneered inwardly, maintaining a composed exterior. “Archie, why the formality? Does it truly matter who holds the seal? Surely, there’s no need to draw lines between us.”
She deftly turned his words against him.
Archie’s frustration simmered. Of course, it mattered! As long as Imogen possessed the seal, he remained merely a son-in-law. Only the seal would grant him access to the Russell fortune. Damn it! Hadn't Imogen been easily manipulated before? Hopelessly in love? Why this sudden clarity?
Before he could press further, Imogen changed the subject. “Archie, Johanna’s getting older. What about introducing her to a boyfriend?”
Archie’s expression darkened. “She’s too young. No rush. Besides, she might dislike your choices.”
“Really?” Imogen’s tone was gentle. “But she wanted to be my sister-in-law. Did I misunderstand?”
It wasn’t a misunderstanding; it was a contingency plan. While Archie courted Imogen, Johanna had targeted Stephan, but his ruthlessness proved a formidable barrier. Despite winning Imogen's favor, Johanna hadn't gotten close to Stephan.
“Alright, let’s drop this. I’m tired and want a nap. You should rest too,” Imogen yawned, dismissing him.
Archie found her behavior unusual. Previously, she wouldn't sleep without him. This sudden distance was unsettling. Yet, preoccupied with Johanna, he left without lingering.
The moment the door closed, Imogen’s drowsiness vanished.