A Pledge of Survival

IV

"Noah, you've reached the age of twenty-five, not sixteen. How can you reasonably expect me not to be concerned, especially when you haven't even begun to consider the possibility of marriage?"

"Mother, I implore you, it's only eight in the morning, and I'm not prepared to engage in such conversations without even having had my tea," Noah's tone carried a hint of fatigue. This morning had left him particularly weary, and he sensed that the topic his dear mother was eager to discuss would likely be a protracted one.

"Charles, please reason with your son. He seems oblivious to the fact that the Season commences in just a few months, and he should at least be open to the idea of finding a fiancée by its end."

As Noah met his father's gaze, he offered a silent plea for the subject to be dropped. "Noah, do you have any intention of seeking a fiancée after this Season concludes?" his father's query held a tinge of reluctance .

This was the moment Noah had feared, the point of no return. "Dad, I don't have any plans to become involved with anyone," he responded, almost resignedly. "Given the current situation we're facing, my focus needs to be solely on the tasks at hand, as you well know."

"Oh, Noah, enough with this," his mother interjected, her voice carrying a mixture of concern and frustration. "You've been aware of your father's illness for quite some time now. None of us expect you to put your life on hold. You're a young and intelligent man; there's no need to bear everything on your shoulders."

"Mom," Noah's voice was tinged with weariness, "Dad's not just recovering, he's nearing the end of his life. How can you expect me to move forward while there's so much to take care of?" His tone was forceful, but it seemed to have little effect on his parents, who exchanged a fond look. It struck Noah just how perfectly matched they were, despite the current tension. They truly belonged together.

"Son, we all have our appointed time to depart this world, and it appears mine might be a bit sooner than expected," his father spoke with a calm acceptance. "But I still hope to witness your marriage and perhaps see the beginning of your own family. Your mother and I would find nothing more gratifying."

Noah's internal turmoil only deepened as his parents' gazes met. He realized, in that moment, that they had navigated life's challenges together, their bond unbreakable.

Noah didn't feel like responding. Skeptical of his own voice's stability, he offered a simple smile to his beloved parents. Just then, the dining room's door swung open with a burst of energy "Good morning, everyone. Why does the room feel so somber?" Aveline, his younger sister, chimed in with her signature exuberance.

Aveline was a real sunshine to their household, although her mischievous tendencies often led to amusing chaos. Sensing an underlying tension, she couldn't resist teasing her brother. "Oh, Noah, I never thought you could look even more desperate than usual, but you never cease to amaze," she laughed, taking a seat beside him. "What could have possibly put such a dreadful expression on your face? Oh, I think I know," she turned her gaze toward their mother, mischief dancing in her eyes, "Mom, did you perhaps enlighten Noah about the long celibate life he's destined to endure if he doesn't secure a fiancée before the season ends?"

A hearty laugh erupted from their father, filling the room with joviality, and Noah couldn't hold back his own chuckles. "Aveline, what on earth are you talking about? Have you even glanced at yourself in the mirror? I'm surprised your maid hasn't complained about how frightful you look this morning."

"Noah," his mother called, a suppressed chuckle accompanying her words. "Your sister is truly stunning, and her beauty will undoubtedly shine when her debut season arrives in a few months."