The Contracted Ever After novel Chapter 685

Thomas was still reeling from shock. If his memory served him right, the man standing before him was the one he had seen in photographs—the same man he had mistakenly thought was Alana's son. For a fleeting moment, he had even entertained the possibility that the boy could be his own flesh and blood.

With a heavy heart and one last lingering glance, Thomas finally turned and walked away.

Once back home, Thomas shared the disappointing news with Marian: Cordelia had refused to adopt the child. Marian clenched her fists, her voice dripping with venom. “That Cordelia, she clearly doesn’t care for the boy. She’s just keeping her rival’s nephew close to spite me! It’s obvious she doesn’t truly love him; she’s just doing this to get under my skin!”

Marian harbored a deep resentment towards Cordelia.

Meanwhile, Cordelia and Ronan had retreated upstairs. After Ronan excused himself to the bathroom, a soft knock at the bedroom door announced a visitor. It was little Jayson, slipping quietly inside.

He was skinny and small for his age. As soon as he entered, he collapsed into Cordelia’s arms, tears streaming down his face. “Mom, am I really unwanted?” he choked out.

Cordelia's eyes filled with emotion. “How could you be unwanted, sweetheart?”

“Then why did that grandpa want to take me?”

“That grandpa wanted you, but your dad and I didn’t let him, did we? You’re just as precious to us as Callum. You’re an Evans, and this family will always be your home,” Cordelia reassured him.

Moved by her words, Jayson managed a small smile. “I heard you and dad talking to that grandpa. The door to Uncle Lin’s room was open. Thank you for standing up for me.”

Cordelia cupped his face tenderly. “You’re such a good boy, Blake. Now, go get some sleep.”

Obediently, Jayson headed to bed.

Cordelia felt a pang of emotion linger even after the door had closed behind him. When Ronan emerged from the bathroom, she recounted the exchange to him, only to be met with a nonchalant grunt.