The Contracted Ever After (Cordelia and Ronan) novel Chapter 438

A sheen of unease painted Cordelia's face.

Alana was nothing short of venomous. Cordelia understood that over the years, Alana's company had grown significantly powerful, in addition to her extensive influence overseas.

"Oh, by the way, Cordelia, when's your next lecture? I'd love to pop in," Samantha said, her tone dripping with insincerity.

"Next week," Cordelia retorted before turning on her heel and leaving. Her hand clenched tightly.

The four of them proceeded to dine at the restaurant, reserving the same private room as before.

Ronan lit up a cigar, and Cordelia busied herself, selecting dishes from the menu, her head bowed.

"Callum, what would you like to eat?" Cordelia asked gently, ruffling Callum's hair.

"Anything's fine."

"Callum's such an easygoing kid."

"I know what Callum likes to eat. Let me order," Harold interjected, leaning in close to Cordelia. "Kids absolutely love this dish. I bet Callum will, too.”

Callum felt a twinge of resentment in his heart.

Ronan nonchalantly puffed on his cigar, his gaze fixed on the two figures huddled together – a picture-perfect couple.

Harold was quite proactive, continuously engaging Cordelia in conversation. Cordelia, always one to play hard to get, was skillfully elusive.

“Harold, you could’ve mentioned that you’re interested in a teacher. It would've saved me the trouble of worrying about you." Ronan flicked off the ash from his cigar.

Harold chuckled lightly. "Well, I was afraid you'd tell my mom. Cordelia is five years older than me, so I thought my mom wouldn't approve."

Ronan let out another laugh, though his eyes remained cold.

Cordelia felt a pang of sadness and called out softly, "Callum."

"Ms. Haselwood, you're overthinking," Ronan patted Callum's head. "I can handle my own child. I've been doing it since he was little. But I must say, Ms. Haselwood, you are quite captivating. You've already hooked a fine young lad like Harold at the beginning of the semester."

Ronan eyed Cordelia, his tone leisurely. His choice of the word 'hooked' was undeniably piercing.

Harold glanced at Cordelia before asserting, "It wasn't like that. I was the one who fell for her first." He was trying to defend Cordelia.

"Ms. Haselwood, have you ever been in a relationship?" Ronan probed further. It was as if he was a parent scrutinizing a potential partner for his child.

"Yes," Cordelia murmured, her face flushed.

"You have? If you don't mind, could you share some details?" Ronan persisted, a faint smirk playing on his lips.