"He's your brother!" After saying this to Mia, Karen looked at Karen Joy and continued, "And, he's your father! How could you two not care for him?!"
Mia and Karen Joy once again said in unison, "It's not that we don't care about him. But we all know that he's only waiting for you."
Karen was dumbfounded by their statement.
They were right.
Being married for so many years, some friction in life was inevitable but usually were just minor issues. Things would be fine as long as both parties each took a step back. Karen understood this well and she could never really be angry with Kevin.
After making Kevin a cup of tea, she headed up to the study. Upon her arrival, Kevin placed the book in his hand down and looked up at her. He said in a deep voice, "How many times have I told you not to worry about the family? Why don't you listen to me?"
It turned out that Kevin was not really angry with Karen. He was only worried that she would be exhausted after seeing her relentlessly caring for everyone.
Karen placed the teacup that was within Kevin's reach and helped tidy up his desk a little. She said, "It's been years since Mom passed. Dad looks strong and healthy, but we all know that his health is not getting any better."
She sighed and gently continued, "That makes you the head of this family now. As your wife, I have to help lift the burden on your shoulders. Otherwise, you might get a mistress to take care of these for me."
Kevin's face darkened, and he growled, "Karen!"
She smiled and said, "Why the strong reaction? I'm just joking. However, judging from your reaction, I do wonder if you're feeling guilty about what I said."
Kevin imparted, "You shouldn't joke about this."
"Okay, I won't joke about it. I know you're worried about me. However, I don't feel burdened by the need to care for the family. I love this family and everyone in it. I like taking care of everyone. I enjoy it very much when everyone comes home during the weekend," said Karen.
Karen reached for Kevin's hand and held it to her face, stroking herself with it as she said, "They're our family, our relatives. So, I love you and I love all of them. You understand where I'm coming from, yes?"
Karen's words made Kevin's heart flutter. Kevin grabbed her hand, held it gently in his palm and said, "Karen, you're such a fool."
She smiled at him, "Because of you, I'm sheltered from storms and I'm able to live in this warm and loving world that you've built for me. So, what does it matter if I'm a fool?"
Kevin caressed her head and said, "You deserve to have all the most beautiful things in the world."
"Kevin, you are the greatest thing that's ever happened to me. Having you is equal to having the whole world," Karen smiled at him gently. "Let's go, everyone is waiting for us downstairs."
Kevin nodded, gazing at her with tender eyes.
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