The Contracted Ever After novel Chapter 609

Ronan's assistant had just flown back from England and handed him a hefty, twenty-something-page dossier. It was Eason's history, dense with revelations.

Twenty-eight years ago, Alana had lost her virginity in Thomas Colby’s bed—not because of love or passion, but to keep her secret from August, who had already left the scene by then.

Back then, August was still a shining star in the entertainment world, so finding him wasn't too hard.

Alana tracked him down effortlessly and played the role of her sister to perfection. She cooked for him, embodying the epitome of meekness. "I was harsh on you before because of my father's illness," she confessed to August. "I've come to ask for your forgiveness."

Love-struck as ever, August was none the wiser about the twins' switcheroo. Alana's apparent change of heart rekindled his affection, and they slipped into a blissful bubble of domesticity. Deep down, Alana must have harbored some affection for August.

But mimicry only takes one so far. Alana's true colors—assertive, fierce, cunning—started to bleed through, and August, who at first tolerated the dominance for love's sake, began feeling the strain. However, he hoped they were just ironing out the kinks in their relationship, that things would get better.

When Alana announced her pregnancy, all bets were off. August could hardly argue with anything then.

With the birth of a boy, Alana's grip tightened. Her coercive nature became unbearable, and she pressed for marriage. The idea alone sent shivers down August's spine.

"When should we tie the knot, August?" Alana had asked, point-blank.

"Let's break up."

Alana was floored. She had adored August, envisioned a lifetime together—not just to claim her sister's love interest, but out of genuine desire.

But August, dismissive of her devotion, wanted out.

Her heart shattered, and the words "let's break up" hardened her further.

"Even after we part, you'll still be his mother, and I'll be his father. We can co-parent," August suggested gently.