Chapter 21: Marriage And Kids
"Initially, the agreed age limit was 25. However, since Ludwina is now already 24 and still not ready to get married, we extend it to 30. Maybe in a few years, it will get extended again to 35 or 40 ... ahahaha ... In this modern age, it feels like getting married becomes less and less popular," Kevin explained with a laugh.
"That's right. Many people make marriage their life goal even though it is only a small part of human life. There are careers, ideals, relationships with other people, and dreams that we want to accomplish. I think too many people get married and have children because they don't know what else to do in life," said Ludwina with a shrug. "But I do. I know I want to write successful novels and inspire others."
"I want to open new restaurants that can bring my country's name to the world stage. I also want to help grow my father's company group," Kevin added.
"What about you, Andrea? What do you want?" Ludwina asked, looking at Andrea. The young man seemed to weigh something, then answered.
"I want to be the best security expert in the Asia Pacific... and the world," the young man said.
"See? If we focus on our dreams, we won't have time for trivial things like marriage and children," said Ludwina. "It's been two years since I graduated from university, and I've visited dozens of countries to find inspiration, but I still can't be a real writer. Imagine what happens if I was held back by my husband and children."
"Wait a minute.. if we get married at the age of 30, please give me at least one son, Win. So I could have an heir to continue my business," Kevin said, laughing,
"We can just adopt, Kevin honey. The world is already overpopulated." Ludwina shook her head.
"Can you really love someone else's child like your own? You're a selfish person," said Kevin earnestly.
Ludwina looked offended when she heard that.
"You know that when I have made a decision, I will definitely stick to it. I know how to be a responsible adult." Ludwina glared at Kevin. Her eyes threw him an accusing look while she was finishing her mojito. "Who bought succulents and forgot to water at least ONCE A WEEK until they all died of dehydration? They are succulents, for God's sake. If you can't even keep plants alive, don't talk about having kids."
Kevin scratched his head at Ludwina's accusation. He looked defeated. The man then turned to Andrea to seek support.
"Ludwina stayed in the States for a long time. Her mind works exactly like those millennial Western kids who only want to travel. They don't want to settle down, they don't want to get married nor have children. Her views are too western. I still believe in our Asian values because I studied here in Taiwan. I honestly think we need to have children to continue our legacy. Andrea, where do you go to university? "
"UI in Jakarta," Andrea answered. "But I agree with Ludwina, having children is a big responsibility. We don't only need money, but also dedication, affection, and time. People who can't take care of plants or pets should not have children. Having children without preparation would create many problems, and it will generate unhappy children in this world. Eventually, they will grow into unhappy adults, and then our world will become worse than it already is."
Ludwina smiled broadly at Andrea's words.
"So you agree that we already have too many humans on earth, and we don't need to procreate?" she asked with a big smile on her lips, while giving Kevin a side-eye.
"I agree that people who cannot be good parents should not have children." Andrea took a slow sip of his wine before continuing, "I love gardening, and I have two dogs at home. My plants and dogs lead such healthy and happy lives."
Instantly, Ludwina's smile disappeared. She and Kevin looked at each other, and both scratched their heads.
Andrea was obviously saying that he was a good parent to his plants and pets, which means, he was a parent material.
"Do YOU want to have kids?" Ludwina asked Andrea with a frown.
"Yes," Andrea answered firmly.
"You're only 27, right?" Ludwina asked again. "Usually guys your age are still having fun playing and looking for experience. Johann, my older brother, is almost 30, but even he is still busy pursuing his career as a doctor. He had been dating his girlfriend for almost 6 years, and they are also very relaxed about this whole marriage and kids topic."
"Would you believe me if I told you that I almost got married 4 years ago? I was only 23 years old," Andrea responded. "When you meet the right person, you shouldn't let go. If you pursue your career or experience, there will be no end to it at all."
Ludwina was stunned. She never expected their conversation would turn this serious. This was only their first date, right? She never knew Andrea almost got married. Why did they decide to get married so young? What happened then? Who was the girl? Did Andrea still love her??
Kevin realized that the conversation between the two guests was getting serious. He finally cleared his throat and excused himself to greet the other restaurant guests.
The food Ludwina and Andrea ordered arrived, and both of them began to eat in silence. Ludwina did not say anything while playing with her food. She avoided Andrea's gaze. Her mind was filled with questions, and she didn't know where to start if she wanted to interrogate the man.
After all ... she didn't have the right to ask too many questions because she was nothing to him. They were not dating. They only decided to meet tonight for dinner after not seeing each other for seven months.
Ludwina liked Andrea because the handsome young man was very patient, smart, and he made her heart flutter. She felt that Andrea liked her too. But they were only acquaintances at this point. Ludwina had no idea how far she could ask about the man's private life. She did not want to be presumptuous.
For the first time in her life, Ludwina didn't have any conversation topic.
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