The Contracted Ever After (Cordelia and Ronan) novel Chapter 277

"Cordelia." Ava said, leaning casually against the doorframe, "I'm here to bring you home. After all, the bun in your oven is Jamie’s, and some folks can't claim the harvest when they didn't sow the seed. What's the deal with keeping you cooped up here? That's not right."

Ava's message was loud and clear, and intended for Ronan. However, Ronan chose not to take the bait. He simply ran a hand through his hair, showing no sign of being affected by Ava's words.

"Ava." Cordelia began, her mind a whirl of confusion. Words failed her.

"Jamie told me everything, darling." Ava interrupted, patting Cordelia's hand, "He said the baby was conceived during his first visit to California. It's definitely his. I may have had my reservations about you before, but I hope you can forgive me. Come home with me, will you?"

"Did Jamie really tell you that?" Cordelia asked, a slight frown appearing on her forehead.

"Absolutely. He tried to propose last time but things didn't work out. This time, I'm here on his behalf. I've put my dignity aside for him, Cordelia. Please, say yes." Ava said.

The baby was a miracle—a pair of twins, a boy and a girl. It was a blessing usually reserved for the most virtuous of couples. Ava might have had her misgivings about Cordelia in the past, thinking she was a loose woman. But the babies were a gift to the family, and Jamie clearly adored Cordelia.

"I." Cordelia began, her eyes downcast as she fiddled with her fingers, "Can I take a few days to think it over?"

She knew Ronan would never let her go, but it felt wrong to outright reject Ava in the moment. So, she opted for a stalling tactic.

"A few days?" Ava inquired.

Cordelia held up three fingers, "Three days?"

"Alright, I'll come back in three days. Some people need to wake up to reality. Remember how her mother died? Who would willingly stay with their enemy? This is confinement, don't you understand?" With a pointed glance at Ronan, Ava turned on her heel and left.

The mention of her mother pricked at Cordelia's heart. After seeing Ava out, Cordelia returned to the couch, her face devoid of emotion.