The Contracted Ever After novel Chapter 416

After Cordelia had tactfully declined the meeting notice from Empower Operations, she spent her days at home engrossed in writing papers, preparing for classes, and teaching her students. Life was fulfilling and joyful. She was also in the process of applying for a national research grant. Once she secured the grant, her promotion to Associate Professor was as good as done. Additionally, her doctoral students would also benefit from the rising tide.

However, the sight of Barney's books over the last few days had dragged her emotions back to the past. She missed him.

She had a longing to visit his old house. Even though she didn't have the keys, just standing outside would suffice.

After having dinner at the Birchwood College cafeteria, she decided to take a stroll to Barney's house. Birchwood College was not too far from there anyway.

She was dressed casually in a linen maxi dress, which perfectly complemented her bohemian vibe and her towering height. Her hair was braided casually and rested on her chest, a testament to her impeccable taste.

As Cordelia stood at Barney's doorstep, she was reminded of the time she and Ronan had first visited this place, cooked spaghetti bolognese for Barney, and discussed academia.

She stood at the door for a long time. She wished that someone would suddenly come out of the house and ask her in surprise, "Della, when did you get back?" But she knew it was not possible.

Just as a disheartened Cordelia was about to leave, the door opened. At first, Cordelia was surprised and then scared. Had someone broken into Barney's house?

A well-dressed little boy stood before her, his big, round eyes cautiously watching her.

Their eyes met. Both were stunned.

"Who are you looking for?" The little boy asked her in a childlike voice.

"I..." Cordelia thought, had someone else moved into Barney’s house?

"Callum, who are you talking to?" At that moment, a familiar voice reached Cordelia's ears. It was a voice she knew well and had never faded from her memory.