Grateful to Archie
As the last leader departed after giving the couple his blessings and the heavy gate closed behind them, Archie wasted no time in trailing after Evelyn, who made her way swiftly to her bedroom. Archie with his expression a mask of intense inquiry, intercepted Evelyn, his eyes demanding answers to the questions that tormented him.
Why couldn't she identify the father of her children? What has actually happened that night?
Evelyn, aware that Archie had every right to know the truth about the children, steeled herself to reveal the unsettling details of that tormenting night.
Drawing a steadying breath, she began, her voice low and tinged with regret, "I was adamant about attending the party, so my brother send me off... It was there, amidst the revelry, that I encountered my nemesis. Unbeknownst to me, she had surreptitiously spiked my drink with an aphrodisiac, leaving me in a state of helpless intoxication. In a moment of desperate need, I pulled a stranger from the corridor to my chambers. We spent the night together, and in the haze of the morning after, when I received the heart-wrenching news of father and brother's tragic demise, I didn't spare a thought for the man who had shared my bed."
"You let that culprit go after what she did to you?" Archie's voice rose, thick with anger. He remembered a time when Evelyn's brother and father would seek vengeance for even the smallest harm done to her. How could the girl who dared to drug his Evelyn still be breathing? Archie knew a lot had happened since then, and Evelyn might not care about that incident anymore, but after her family's death, Archie saw himself as her protector. He couldn't allow someone to hurt her and then be forgiven.
"It genuinely doesn't matter to me anymore." Evelyn said in a resigned manner.
"But it matters to me! I will take care of that bitch tomorrow only."
Evelyn sighed but said nothing otherwise. She understand his protective side. Taking a pause she slowly asked him. "How did you know that i was hiding something. Or I didn't know who the father is?"
Archie, ever perceptive, intervened gently, "I observed your hesitation. The way you clenched your fist and how your eyes didn't show any sign of anger when Mr. Wills accused you. I knew my Eve would have cut his throat if she were right but being falsely accused. In the end, I saw how tough it was for you to confess, and I knew you didn't have the answers to his questions."
Evelyn turned to face him, her expression a mixture of gratitude and apprehension. "And why did you choose to lie? Do you know what this lie will lead to? For the next few years, you can't get married. This tag of being a father will always follow you. It's a very big step. How could you not think about it?"
Archie chuckled hearing her question. "Well I never had to think twice if it's about taking care of you. Everything is fine to me as long as it's you who is benefitting out of it. Getting married is not my priority. In fact I am glad that i got the chance to stick with you from now on. Having a much better tag of relationship than before is actually a great news to me."
Evelyn pursed her lips, looking down at her feet as she spoke in a low voice, trying hard not to cry. "But this is wrong for you."
"It might seem that way to you, but look at me. I'm more at peace than before. Since I got the news about your family, all I wanted was to see you well. You're the only family I have left. I'm glad that now I'm part of your family, with your children."
"Archie-"
"Shh..."
Archie walked towards her, caressing her hair as he met her gaze unwaveringly. "I couldn't bear to see you face those accusations. This lie is better than your truth. Being the master of a clan is not child's play. I've seen you work hard every day. No one can save this clan but you. Don't worry about me. The identity of the father and the circumstances surrounding the conception are of no consequence to me. From the moment I learned of your pregnancy, I was prepared to shoulder the responsibility. In fact I wanted to take care of you and your children from then on."
Evelyn, known for her icy demeanor, felt an unexpected surge of warmth and gratitude toward Archie. Archie is the only friend she had in her life. She never needed anyone other than him. She felt completed with him, and today she can see the reason. Archie has always supported her no matter. His unwavering support was something her dad and brother also looked upon. They always trusted Evelyn in his care with no worry.
Overwhelmed by emotion, she embraced him tightly, her voice choked with sincerity as she expressed her gratitude. "Thank you, Archie," she murmured, her words laden with genuine appreciation. "I know I am asking a lot from you, yet still you are giving everything to me, I can't tell you how grateful I am to you. Thank you so much."
Archie returned her embrace, his voice soft yet steadfast, "Don't concern yourself with me. Focus on the welfare of the clan. I will ensure that you and the children in your womb are well taken care of."
Evelyn nodded, a sense of relief washing over her as she realized the depth of loyalty and friendship she had in Archie.