Archibald Cornwell-Ardley, called Archie, belongs to the affluent and powerful Ardley lineage, American aristocracy with Scottish roots. As younger brother to Alistair Cornwell and cousin to Anthony Brown, he was raised by Aunt Elroy after their parents' absence.

Archie encounters Candice "Candy" White Ardley while she serves as companion to Eliza Leagan. Alongside Alistair and Anthony, he grows swiftly enamored with Candy’s spirited compassion despite her lower status. The trio repeatedly shields her from mistreatment by Neil and Eliza Leagan—gathering evidence against Neil’s pranks and supplying Candy with event attire.

Elegant and refined, Archie maintains meticulous grooming and attire, embodying a "Dandy" persona. His long hair sometimes causes others to mistake him for female, irritating him. Manga depicts him as blonde, while anime renders him brunette.

Archie’s romantic interest in Candy shifts into rivalry with Terrence "Terry" Granchester, whom he deems an ill-mannered delinquent unfit for her. Their clash reflects opposing values: Archie’s aristocratic propriety versus Terry’s defiance of norms. Despite his feelings for Candy, Archie experiences a Love Epiphany for Annie Brighton, Candy’s orphanage friend, after witnessing Annie’s vulnerability during bullying by Eliza’s circle. He comforts Annie, culminating in their marriage.

Novels unveil complexities within Archie’s marriage: outwardly harmonious, yet his unresolved longing for Candy endures into adulthood. Annie perceives his lingering attachment but remains committed, aspiring to secure his full devotion. Archie serves in World War I alongside Alistair, who perishes in combat. Archie survives and resumes civilian life.

His journey consistently embodies tension between societal expectations and personal desires, exploring unrequited love, loyalty, and the conflict between duty and emotional authenticity.