Julia noticed Max's sudden enthusiasm for having a child, a topic he'd mentioned multiple times. She brought up her concerns, "I saw how Mrs. George and Wendy argued about breastfeeding versus formula feeding. It's tough for modern women – we must balance family responsibilities with financial independence. If we have children, will we face similar challenges?"
Max nodded thoughtfully, acknowledging the complexities of modern parenthood.
Max understood Julia's concerns and said, "Having a child is a natural part of life. Even in the animal kingdom, males take responsibility for their families when their partners are pregnant and give birth. As a man, I should support both my career and family. I married you, Julia, and it's my duty to be your rock."
Julia gazed at Max, feeling a surge of admiration for his manly demeanor. He smiled gently and added, "Let's take things as they come. Don't stress too much. A great marriage is about mutual understanding, tolerance, and ease."
Julia teased, "Max, you'd make a great philosopher!"
Max chuckled, "Anyone can be a philosopher in life, Julia. After all this time together, what do you think of me?"
Julia replied sincerely, "You're great, Max. We just need a little spark."
Max nodded thoughtfully, "I see. Maybe I've been lacking in romance?"
Julia smiled shyly, "A bit."
Max reflected for a moment before saying solemnly, "I'll do better, Julia. I promise."
As they chatted, Julia and Max arrived at the parking lot downstairs. Hand in hand, they strolled upstairs, feeling like a contented couple returning home from work together. Julia felt a deep sense of comfort and love, realizing she didn't need luxury or wealth; just someone who cherished her and made life warm and beautiful.
Glancing at Max's profile, Julia recalled the scene where he fiercely defended her against William, proclaiming he wouldn't let anyone disparage his wife. Her heart swelled with affection.
Max unlocked the door, and they both gasped at the unexpected sight before them.
Julia and Max had just discussed intimacy and romance in the car, and upon arriving home, they were met with a surprise romantic setup. Rose petals adorned the room, a steak dinner with red wine and flowers awaited them, soft music played, and a lovely fragrance filled the air. Julia's eyes widened in surprise, "Did you do this?"
Max chuckled, realizing the truth, "Aunt Georgina arranged it." Julia's face fell slightly, hoping Max had been the mastermind behind the romantic gesture, "I thought it was you."
Max noticed Julia's disappointment and reassured her, "Hey, I may not have set it up, but I'm happy to enjoy it with you." He gestured to the perfectly cooked steak, "Are you hungry? Let's eat first."
Julia smiled, touched by Max's thoughtfulness, and they sat down to savor the romantic dinner together.
Julia's eyes sparkled as she gazed at the perfectly cooked steak, "I'm starving! This looks incredible." She carefully made her way to the dining table, not wanting to trample the scattered flower petals. Slipping into her cozy slippers, she tiptoed across the room, feeling like a princess in a fairytale.
Meanwhile, Georgina watched from next door, peeking through the crack in the door. Seeing Julia and Max return home with beaming smiles, she couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. "Ah, it seems there's hope for a grandson after all!" she whispered to herself, her eyes twinkling with anticipation.
Georgina's mind was already racing with wedding plans for Julia and Max, envisioning a grand celebration to surpass the secretive marriage of Wellington's family head. She couldn't contain her excitement, promptly calling Sean to share her enthusiasm. "Sean, dear, we need to start planning Dennis's wedding!"
Sean cautioned, "Mom, aren't you rushing things?"
Georgina insisted, "No, no, a wedding requires meticulous planning. We can't just wing it."Sean suggested, "Perhaps you should discuss this with Max first?" Georgina waved her hand dismissively, "Oh, don't worry, I'll just make preparations. You never know when they might come in handy."
Sean knew better than to argue with Georgina's determination, so he let her have her way.
Meanwhile, Julia struggled to cut her steak, and Max noticed her difficulty. "Let me help," he said with a smile, taking her plate and expertly slicing the meat. Julia watched, mesmerized by his elegant gestures, thinking, "Even watching him cut steak is a pleasure. Beautiful and delicious, just like him."
Julia asked casually, "Max, did you learn etiquette?"
Max replied nonchalantly, "You pick it up when you often socialize," and handed her the perfectly cut steak.
As they savored the steak, Julia brought up a practical matter, "By the way, I've sorted out this month's expenses. Except for the car payment, our household expenses came out to around two thousand dollars..." She showed Max her phone, expecting a discussion.
Max's expression remained neutral, "The money is yours to manage. Spend it as you see fit, and don't worry about reporting to me. I trust you completely."
Julia nodded, still getting used to their financial arrangement. Since their marriage, she had been hesitant to ask Max for money, even when she ran low. She appreciated his trust but still maintained some reserve.
Max offered, "Red wine?" holding up the bottle. "Would you like some?"
Julia smiled, appreciating the gentle gesture, and nodded.
Max recognized the red wine as one of Georgina's finest vintages. Julia hesitated, knowing its high alcohol content could lead to loss of control, but the romantic atmosphere made her nod in agreement, "Just half a glass, please."
Max poured her a half glass, and they toasted, "Cheers to our three-month wedding anniversary." Julia's eyes widened, realizing she had forgotten this milestone. "Cheers," she replied, their glasses clinking together.
The soft orange candlelight danced across Julia's face, reflected in the glass, creating a warm and intimate ambiance. She savored the wine, "Mmm, this is exquisite. So smooth and mellow, unlike any I've had before."
Max smiled, pleased she appreciated the fine wine, and they continued their romantic dinner, lost in each other's eyes.
Julia was accustomed to drinking affordable table wine, but Georgina's rare vintage was a game-changer. She couldn't resist having another glass, and Max noticed her enthusiasm. "If you enjoy it, I'll ask Georgina to bring more next time," he said with a subtle smile.
Julia protested, "No need, really... Georgina's family is in the wine business, a few bottles are hardly a big deal." Max assured her, "I'm sure it's fine." He poured her another glass, and suggested, "Try the foie gras now, the flavor pairs perfectly with the wine."
Julia savored the luxurious foie gras, freshly flown in, and was delighted, "Mmm, this is incredible!" Max smiled, pleased she appreciated the fine wine and cuisine. As they indulged in the exquisite dinner, their connection grew stronger.
"Pay attention to the pairings," Max said, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Red wine with this, white wine with that - the flavors change completely." Julia smiled, impressed, "You're a connoisseur!"
Max chuckled, "Well, it's like beer with French fries, isn't it?" The candlelight danced across Julia's face, and the red wine glistened on her lips, tempting Max to steal a kiss. He noticed her cheeks flushing from just one glass, her low alcohol tolerance making her even more adorable.
Julia's gaze was dreamy, her eyes like silk, alluring. Max's voice was low and husky, "It's like us." Julia's response was a gentle "Huh?" her eyes locked on his. Max's grip on her hand tightened, "No more wine for you."
Julia savored the wine, clutching her glass as if Max might take it away. "No, just a little more, please?" she pleaded, her eyes sparkling with mischief. Max couldn't resist her adorable pout. This was the first time she'd acted so playfully with him, and he found it captivating.
He sat down beside her, his voice warm with affection. "Alright, just a little more." As the music played, Julia smiled at Max, her voice sweet as honey. "Honey, you're so kind."
Max's heart skipped a beat at the tender endearment. "Call me honey again," he requested, his lips curling into a gentle smile. Julia obliged, her voice dripping with sweetness. "Honey, honey, my honey, please pour me another drink."
Max was enchanted by her charming pleas, his heart melting at her words. In that moment, he felt he would risk anything to make Julia happy.
Julia, usually demure and shy, was now radiant with joy, sipping her wine like a treasured find. Max poured her another glass, and she savored it, unaware of its hefty price tag. "Julia, you don't usually drink, do you?" Max asked, curious.