The Contracted Ever After novel Chapter 584

Back then, Alana was truly stunning.

Paola stared blankly at the photograph, tears streaming down her face as she clutched her knees tightly. Cordelia glanced over, unsure if Paola was lost in memories or simply overwhelmed by emotion.

Once they got home, Paola remained on the couch, lost in her thoughts. Cordelia headed to the kitchen and whipped up Mom's favorite comfort food: braised pork ribs, a recipe passed down from Grandma.

When Cordelia walked into the living room with the pork ribs, she saw Paola at the door, welcoming Ronan inside. Cordelia paused, slightly taken aback.

"Not going to invite me in?" Ronan asked, spotting Cordelia.

"Come on in," Cordelia replied. She set the table, preparing to share a meal with her mother.

Ronan stepped in and eyed the dishes. "Aren't pregnant women supposed to crave pickles? I don't see any pickles on your table," he quipped, hands in his pockets.

"Who said I'm pregnant? I've just been feeling off lately. Besides, Mr. Big Shot CEO, you're married. Why care about some unrelated woman being pregnant?" Cordelia served her mom a rib. "Do you want some? Oh, never mind, a family man like you shouldn't be eating at just anyone's house."

"Sounds like someone's a bit sour, or maybe jealous?" Ronan found a comfortable spot on the couch.

"Heh, that's not it. I just went with Mom to hear a report; she saw a picture of her and my dad and got upset, so I'm upset too," Cordelia explained. "You think it's about you, but you're wrong."

"Ah, maybe I'm just flattering myself," Ronan conceded.

"It's not that. Whether I'm pregnant or not, I honestly don't know. I'll check later," Cordelia said.

There was a knock at the door, and Cordelia rose to answer it. An unexpected visitor—Thomas—stood there.