Chapter 74 The Philosopher Named Fiorello
Mom? Wasn't Fiorello's parents both deceased?The question hung in the air, a puzzle that Maggie couldn't quite piece together. As she prepared to voice her confusion, Fiorello spotted her through the car window, still engrossed in his phone conversation.
"I'll have to call you back, Aunt," he said into the receiver. "Maggie and I are on our way home now."
After ending the call, he turned to Maggie, his brows furrowing slightly. "How did you manage to get out so quickly?"
"I didn't want to disturb Maggie and the child. They both needed rest," she explained, sliding into the car. "Was that our aunt on the phone just now?"
"Yes, she's cooked dinner and was wondering when we'd be home," Fiorello replied, starting the car and steering it towards Cityhomes West.
Had she misheard the conversation? The question nagged at Maggie as she spoke again. "Fiorello, Aunt is incredibly kind to us. Even a biological mother might not do as much."
Fiorello shrugged, a small smile playing on his lips. "Aunt enjoys company. She gets bored alone at home, so she just wants to find something to do."
"Does our aunt only have one son?" Maggie asked, curiosity piqued. "Why doesn't she live with him? It seems a bit extravagant for her to buy a house next to us and live alone."
"She's not short of money," Fiorello said, his tone serious. "As people age, they fear loneliness. She likes you, and that's fate. In the future, when we have children, Aunt can help take care of them."
The topic of children was unavoidable that day. Fiorello had mentioned it more than once, his attitude shifting from the casual indifference he'd shown when Dulcinea and Jamil had urged them to start a family.
Maggie's thoughts drifted to Ann. "Earlier, Ms. Smith and her mother-in-law were arguing about whether to breastfeed or use formula. It's difficult for modern women. They have to balance being part of the Gamgee's family and being financially independent. Fiorello, if we have a child, will we face these kinds of problems?"
Fiorello understood her concerns instantly. "No, we won't. Reproducing and having offspring is a natural law. Even male animals in the animal kingdom know that when their wives are pregnant and giving birth, they have to take on the responsibility of providing for the family. Both career and family are the responsibility of both partners. I married you, and it's my duty to bear the weight on our shoulders."
Maggie looked at him, and in that moment, she felt that Fiorello had the charm of a true man. He smiled warmly at her, saying, "Let everything happen naturally, don't put too much pressure on yourself. The best marriage is when I understand your efforts and you understand my struggles. Mutual understanding and acceptance are necessary for us to go further together."
Maggie teased, "Fiorello, it's such a waste that you're not a philosopher."
Fiorello laughed. "In life, everyone can be a philosopher. Maggie, after spending so long together, how do you feel about me?"
"Very good." Maggie couldn't find any fault in Fiorello. "Just a little dull."
Fiorello nodded, reflecting on her words. "Can I understand it as a lack of passion and romance?"
Maggie blushed and smiled. "You can understand it that way."
Fiorello pondered for a moment and said seriously, "I will improve."
By the time their conversation ended, they had arrived at the parking lot downstairs. Hand in hand, they ascended the stairs after exiting the car. The simple act of returning home from work together filled Maggie with a sense of security. She didn't need a life of luxury or wealth, just the simplicity of a warm, caring partner.
As they approached their apartment, Maggie glanced at Fiorello's profile, remembering how he had defended her against Samwise. His wife was not to be insulted by anyone.
Fiorello unlocked the door, and as it swung open, they were both stunned by what they saw.