The Contracted Ever After (Cordelia and Ronan) novel Chapter 520

Cordelia felt a knot tighten in her stomach, wondering if Ronan's words were meant for Petra. Did he suspect Petra of stealing her research?

After dinner, Ronan headed back to his grandfather's house, where Callum was still staying.

When Cordelia returned to Unity Hall, she was just about to unlock her door when her phone rang. It was Victoria, looking to have a chat. "Hey Cordelia, what's up?" Victoria's voice came through the speaker.

Truth be told, Cordelia felt a wave of anxiety wash over her at Victoria's question. She feared Victoria might’ve been calling to tell her who had been prying into her blood type. But that wasn't the case. Victoria's tone was breezy and light.

"I'm still at the university, buried in my thesis. Been here all day."

"I'm on annual leave, and if I head back to my mom's place, she'll be on my case about finding a boyfriend again. Mind if I crash with you? I'm quite fascinated by your ivory tower lifestyle," Victoria said with a chuckle.

"Sure, come on over," Cordelia responded with a laugh. "My place is tiny, just a one-bedroom with one bed, but we can share it. Brooklyn's got her hands full with her little one, so I booked her a hotel room, but you, my friend, won't need to spend the cash."

Inwardly, Cordelia thought it was perfect timing for Victoria's visit. Just when she was worried about Ronan possibly wanting to stay over, Victoria's arrival would surely mean he couldn't.

"Shall I come tomorrow?"

"Yeah, just text me when you get here, and I'll pick you up from the station," Cordelia offered.

After confirming the plans, Cordelia confided in Victoria about Harold enlisting in the military, and her inexplicable outburst at Ronan. She couldn't figure out the mixed feelings she had for him.

Victoria listened quietly. "Did Harold ever express... special feelings for you? And does Ronan know about it?" Victoria ventured.

Cordelia paused, amazed at Victoria's insight. With just one sentence, she had pinpointed the crux of Cordelia’s relationship with Harold.