Towards the Winter Cabin of Serenity and Madness, Cinderella Runs - Chapter 151
“Yes… not yet.”
Roel’s expression grew somber. The absence of news about children weighed heavily on her, leading to a deep sigh each time. With every reminder, she felt more and more embarrassed and burdened.
“Is everything alright between you two?”
Lady Lorraine had a strained relationship with her husband, yet she had three children. Having had no trouble conceiving after just one attempt, she seemed unable to understand why a happy couple would struggle with having children.
Kyden, who had been listening to the conversation, interjected.
“Let’s not talk about kids anymore. It’s possible we may not have any.”
His comment shocked not only Jared and Lorraine but also caught the attention of Kysen and Kyron, who widened their eyes.
“You’re saying you won’t have kids?”
“Why?”
Everyone struggled to comprehend Kyden’s statement, including Roel, who was taken aback by his declaration.
But Kyden answered calmly,
“I don’t think they’re necessary. Since I feel this way, just leave Roel alone.”
A heavy silence descended over the dining hall. Jared and Lorraine had complicated expressions, seemingly worried that the reason for Kyden’s negative view on children might stem from them.
As the room fell silent, Kyron suddenly spoke up.
“Our Elishar is pregnant. She’s already 12 weeks along.”
Having been married for less than a year, Kyron was expecting a child. While the family should have congratulated him, they first glanced at Roel to gauge her reaction.
Reading the uncomfortable atmosphere, Roel hurried to congratulate him.
“Congratulations! I’ll make sure to visit before the baby arrives.”
“Thank you, sister-in-law. Elishar will be thrilled.”
Having a child is indeed a joyous occasion. Roel wanted to sincerely congratulate him, but it felt like her heart was being scratched with sandpaper.
Kyron, who was often oblivious, added a remark that didn’t need to be said.
“I hope you have a baby soon too. Just because Brother isn’t committed to family life doesn’t mean you should be too.”
He likely meant no harm, but Roel couldn’t respond immediately and held her breath for a moment.
“What kind of thing is that to say?”
Kyden frowned, clearly annoyed, but Roel quickly stepped in to prevent a confrontation. She didn’t want to raise voices on a day meant for family joy.
Kyden was more committed to family than anyone. Roel also sincerely hoped for this and worked hard towards it. But the true nature of their relationship was known only to the two of them. Despite their earnest efforts, it seemed to others that they were both neglecting their family.
“Thank you for your concern. I’ll… try too.”
Roel awkwardly smiled, trying to lighten the tense atmosphere.
However, after saying that, she couldn’t remember what conversation she had with her family. Her mind was consumed with thoughts of the child that wasn’t coming and feelings of inadequacy as a wife.
As Roel’s words dwindled, Kyden watched her expression closely and quietly asked,
“Are you okay? If you’re tired, we can leave.”
“Of course I’m fine. Don’t just sit there; try the meat. It’s really delicious.”
Roel pretended to be indifferent, easing his worries.
Having resolved to not feel anxious, clingy, or obsessive, Roel silently endured her throbbing and painful heart.
* * *
Kyden’s birthday banquet went smoothly. The family left with smiles, not having quarreled.
That night, when Roel declared that she would stop all the bizarre methods she had tried to conceive, Kyden seemed genuinely pleased.
As soon as they entered their room, he clung to her, seemingly unconcerned about the lack of children.
It was Roel’s heart that felt battered and bruised.
‘…No, maybe it’s a blessing in disguise. If Kyden wanted children as desperately, it would have been harder.’
Had he been fervently longing for a child, the situation would have been even more painful. Roel might have feared that she was the reason behind it all.
So she decided to see it as a blessing. It took effort, but she managed to steady her heart.
The next day, Kyden hurriedly began preparing to go out before noon.
He was headed to meet Count Serley, who had requested his support in a quarrel with his mother.
As Roel saw Kyden off, she took advantage of the moment when his subordinates were looking elsewhere to steal a quick kiss.
“Be careful out there.”
After the brief kiss, he cleared his throat and seemed disappointed as he licked his lips. Roel gently pushed Kyden away as he moved in closer again.
“Just one more.”
“Sir Elden is watching.”
“That guy…”
If Elden caught them like this, it would be troublesome. Elden had a rather unpleasant personality and would glare at the couple, looking for any excuse to criticize them when they showed affection during work hours.
Sure enough, Elden approached, ready to pick at them.
“Did you just kiss?”
“No.”
“Someone is working hard while you’re over there kissing. You did kiss, didn’t you?”
“I really didn’t, Sir Elden.”
“Stop acting all sensitive like a single guy, and hurry up and get married.”
