The Contracted Ever After novel Chapter 655

Cordelia's lips had curled into a slight smile, unlike the downward turn they had taken earlier when she climbed the stairs. Her grievances were mostly about Ronan's attitude. If he kept her in his thoughts, adopting Jayson could solve many issues. But expecting her to be completely impartial? That was asking for the moon.

At dinner, Ronan asked, "Are you on board with this?"

"I'm reserving judgment," Cordelia replied crisply.

"What do you think, Callum? Dad's thinking of getting you a little brother," Ronan turned to their son.

"Is Mom having a baby?" Callum's eyes lit up with excitement.

"No, buddy. He's ready-made, just a tad younger than you."

Callum, as the only child, longed for a playmate to break the monotony of his days.

"Yeah, awesome!" Callum beamed. "When's he coming?"

"As soon as possible."

Cordelia remained silent. Since she had reserved her opinion, Ronan naturally went ahead and brought the child home. He glanced at Cordelia, who remained expressionless.

But from the day they decided to adopt Jayson, Ronan treated Cordelia better.

They say that in middle age, a couple's bond is more than just romance; it's kinship, shared life experiences. Though Cordelia and Ronan weren't quite middle-aged—being on the cusp at best—their family life meant that their treatment of each other wasn't just about love. It was about compromise. Cordelia caved, and Ronan felt obliged to be kinder to her.

To Cordelia, this kindness felt like the ordinary exchange of goodwill between people, not tied to love. It left her feeling uninspired, especially knowing Jayson's arrival was imminent, which only added to her gloom.

One morning, Ronan received a message from Emerson: a preview of the Edith Hills advertising strategy.

Ronan reviewed it and nodded approvingly. Daniella was indeed talented.

"Take a look at this ad," he said, handing his phone to Cordelia.

She scrutinized it and nodded. "Yeah, this is good work. Mr. Emerson's girlfriend is quite the catch."

Ronan just smiled, then muttered as though to himself, "Nothing's set in stone yet."

"So you're using her before things are official?"