Binding Fate: Betrothed to the Otherworldly Duke

Chapter 10: A Mother's Burden

My hands moved carefully as I stood in the heart of the kitchen, delicately balancing the flavors of the evening meal. I pretended not to understand Ada as she slowly spoke to me, pointing out spices and herbs. Her experienced hands, those of a seasoned cook, were busy chopping vegetables, the knife dancing rhythmically on the cutting board.

"Adelia," she began, her tone casual, "Jean is coming over for dinner tonight?"

The mention of Jean sent a sudden warmth rushing to my cheeks. My thoughts drifted to the tall, broad-shouldered young man with that shy smile. Desperately, I turned to the bubbling pot, hoping the rising steam would camouflage my blushing face.

Adelia, with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, caught my subtle reaction. "Yes, he seems quite smitten with our Mara," she said with a knowing look.

Ada hummed in response, a scowl on her brow. "A crush is endearing, but let's not forget, she's a stranger. We know so little about her." Her words, though light, carried an undercurrent of caution that made my heart sink.

The conversation took a sadder turn as Ada's expression grew more serious. "And there's talk of her resembling those Xoltecans wandering in Aeloria, the ones stirring trouble. It's fine for Jean to be fond of her, but anything more... well, I'd much prefer if they all returned to where they came from. For peace's sake."

My spoon paused mid-stir, and I lifted my gaze, meeting Ada's warm smile—a stark contrast to the harshness of her sentiments. I managed a weak smile in return.

As the savory scent of the stew wafted through the quaint kitchen, I began laying out the table, my movements automatic. The front door creaked open, heralding Jean's arrival. Ada welcomed him with maternal affection, her voice filled with pride.

"Ah, Jean! Look at you, all grown up into a fine young man. Isn't it about time you started thinking of marriage and settling down? You'll be taking over your father's work in Aeloria soon."

Jean's laughter, tinged with nervousness, rang through the kitchen. He ran a hand through his hair, a sheepish grin on his face. "I've still got time, Ada. Marriage isn't something I'm rushing into," he replied, trying to deflect the sudden spotlight on his personal life.

Ada continued, her tone growing more insistent, "I've seen several girls in town casting you those longing looks, Jean. And I'm sure there are plenty more in Aeloria. It's high time you considered reaching out to one of their families. Sticking with someone local is always easier and better for a smooth life."

Tomlin, who had been quietly sitting at the table, suddenly couldn't hold back. "Ada!" His voice cracked the heavy air, "Jean, I'm sorry. My sister has never been one for subtlety or tact."

A chill ran through the room as Ada's face transformed from warm to icy scorn. "Maybe if you'd chosen a local girl, Tomlin, your own life would've been luckier," she retorted sharply, her eyes flashing with a bitterness that stunned everyone.

A heavy silence descended, and the tension was palpable. Tomlin's face flushed a deep crimson, and his hands clenched tightly. He was fighting to control the anger that Ada's words had ignited.

My heart raced as I watched the scene unfold, and I felt a surge of empathy for Tomlin. I caught Adelia's eye; her expression was a mix of confusion and sadness. She clearly understood the gravity of her aunt's words.

Tomlin's voice was low and strained when he finally spoke, "Ada, we've been over this. The decisions I've made in my life, whom I chose to love... I have no regrets." Ada shrugged her shoulders, the scorn still on her face as she exited the house.

As the awkwardness lingered, Adelia stood up, her voice steady, trying to salvage the evening. "Let's enjoy the dinner, everyone. We put a lot of effort into it."