Marguerite felt a headache coming on as she listened to their conversation. How had things suddenly shifted to her, and why were they already talking about grandchildren? The pressure was overwhelming—she had never even considered the topic before.
“Mom, please don’t push Marguerite. We haven’t even set a date for our engagement—talking about this now is a little premature,” Leonard said calmly. He didn’t want Marguerite to feel forced into anything, especially since they’d never actually discussed the subject between themselves.
If he were being honest with himself, the idea of having children didn’t scare Leonard; he’d be happy if Marguerite wanted a family. But if she wasn’t ready, he would never pressure her.
Marguerite’s gaze instinctively shifted to him, her thoughts spiraling. Was it possible that Leonard didn’t want children with her? Despite their engagement plans, uncertainty tugged at her. She often felt lost when it came to their relationship, never truly sure of his feelings. He always seemed to keep a certain distance, close one moment and then impossibly far the next. They’d never had a real, candid conversation about their feelings, and she found herself wondering what he actually wanted.
Despite her confusion, Marguerite couldn’t deny the growing attachment she felt for him. She wanted to share everything with him, to do everything together. The realization only made her emotions harder to control.
“Now’s not too early at all,” Mrs. Murphy interjected eagerly. “You two should start preparing now—focus on your health, and from today on, you’re to come straight home after work, no more late nights at the office. If there’s anything you need to handle, do it during the day!”
“Alright, Mom, let’s leave it at that. Today’s Grandma’s birthday—we should just enjoy a nice meal together with her,” Leonard interjected, not wanting the conversation to make Marguerite uncomfortable.
He raised his glass. “Happy birthday, Mom. I hope every day brings you happiness and good health. May you always be with us.”
He looked at her warmly. “Mom, I know you always wish the family could gather together peacefully for a meal, but there always seems to be some disagreement in the air. Sometimes I argue with them when I’d rather not. But for you, I try not to let it bother me. I just want you to be happy.”

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