The Contracted Ever After (Cordelia and Ronan) novel Chapter 61

What was supposed to be a birthday celebration for three turned into a gathering for four.

Deanna had a big cake made for Barney and also put a birthday hat on him.

The doorbell rang and the maid went to answer it, only to find an unwelcome guest - Adrian.

Cordelia's face turned pale at the sight of Adrian. She realized that he had tried to blackmail Ronan before and failed, so this visit must be premeditated.

"What are you doing here?" Cordelia asked.

"I'm your brother, and it's your husband's grandpa's birthday. We're all family, shouldn't I be here? Happy birthday, Barney." Adrian handed a bouquet of flowers to Barney.

Cordelia knew Adrian was up to no good and remained on high alert.

Ronan understood Adrian's intentions too, but chose to remain aloof due to Barney's presence.

"Della, who is this?" Barney asked Cordelia.

"Oh, I'm Adrian, Cordelia's brother. You were resting when I visited last time." Adrian casually took a seat at the dining table.

"Oh, I see. Ronan, why didn't you introduce him?" Barney asked Ronan.

Deanna sat on the side enjoying the drama. She originally intended to mess with Cordelia and Ronan's relationship today.

But seeing Adrian's attitude, she suspected he was up to no good.

"Don't blame Ronan. After all, they're in a contract marriage, we shouldn't have come in the first place." Adrian said, "The contract marriage was told to me by my sister, right, Cordelia?"

The table fell silent.

Cordelia kept her head down eating, her face pale.

She had never mentioned the contract marriage to Adrian, how did he know?

"Oh? What's this about a contract marriage?" Deanna asked, starting to play along with Adrian.

Deanna had already noticed Cordelia's pale face.

"Cordelia, why don't you explain?" Adrian turned his gaze to Cordelia.

His meaning was clear. If Cordelia was smart and gave him money, he would keep his mouth shut. But if Cordelia was stubborn, he wouldn't keep the secret. He figured Cordelia had a good relationship with Barney, so she wouldn't disregard his feelings.