#omiros

The autumn had arrived in Manthos. Myrto and Omiros had been married now for four years. The old house had been renovated and expanded thanks to Myrto's brothers.

It had been crucial for the family, that now counted five children. Spinthírh and Ilithya were the two oldest, and were Omiros' foster children from before he married Myrto.

Eleos, who had a different parentage than the other children, were now almost five, and the twins, Endymion and Euphrosyni had just turned three.

Omiros spent most of his time creating new poems and stories, but he also tied carpets, so that the family had an income in addition to the contribution they received from Myrto's family every month.

Myrto had a lot of responsibilities. It was the children of course, but also the cooking, cleaning, shopping, gardening - all the things you need to do to run a household. Even when she sat down there were things to do: mending and patching clothes, knitting and sewing.

The best days were when her mother came to help. Noor was not so young anymore, but she was still the fastest fruit picker in Manthos.

She was also a magician in the kitchen. Myrto doesn't share Noor's passion for cooking, but at least she has learnt a trick or two.

The best about her mother's visits were that she had an grown up sim to talk to. She could talk with her mother about everything. Well, at least almost everything.

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- So, to whom do I owe this honor? Omiros was so polite that they suspected him to be ironic. The entire Asijaka clan is here visiting me?

- We have a delicate matter to discuss, Kyrie Omire, Noor started carefully.

- I'm all ears.

- My daughter Myrto, whom you know ...

- I do, I do. Omiros smiled inscrutably.

- Well, she is carrying your child.

- Oh is she now?!

Omiros looked genuinely surprised, while Myrto looked down on her feet.

- There is no use in denying it Kyrie Omire, Eira said. She has already seen the obstetrician, Agnodíkh. He can confirm it.

- I see.

- So it's best for everybody that you do the honorable thing.

- "The honorable thing"? Oh, you mean, I should marry her?

- Yes.

- And if I refuse?

- That would be most unfortunate, Noor said. It would ruin your reputation, as well as Myrto's.

- Well, we can't have that, can we? But I'm sure you know I can barely support myself and my two foster children. My entire livelihood consists of kind donations. So my reputation is important to me. But is this really the future you want for your daughter and grandchild, Kyria Asijaka? A life in poverty?

- If I may suggest, Eira cut in, we can't provide a substantial dowry, but we can bestow a small weekly contribution.

- I see. And this arrangement is according to your wishes Myrto?

- Yes, Myrto said, and was glad Omiros couldn't see the tears in her eyes.

- I understand, Omiros was immersed in thought for a while. Before I give you my reply I need to talk with Myrto alone. Maybe we can go for a walk Myrto?

- If you wish.

- I do.

- Well, well, well. Are you going to tell me what's going on?

- What do you mean? They just explained it to you, didn't they?

- Myrto, do you take me for an idiot? I might not understand all mysteries in the world, but I do know one thing: I'm not the father of that child.

- But the obstetrician...

- Give me a break. I've been married Myrto. I know how children are made! Now tell me the truth!

- I just can't! It's too embarrassing. I'm so sorry for getting you into this mess. It's all my fault.

- So who is he? Who is the father of that child?

- It's someone I met in Katafygio.

- And that's the truth? Do you love him?

- Yes, maybe! I don't know! I don't know him! He wanted me to stay but I just couldn't, I love my family so much, how could I leave them? I didn't know about the baby, I swear! I'm so sorry for everything! I understand that you can't marry me. I'm a terrible person! Boohoohoo...

- I don't believe you are a terrible person. However, I was very hurt by your behavior earlier this year. On the other hand you probably went through a lot, and I just happened to be the one to pay for it all.

- You didn't deserve it!

- No I didn't. But it's okay, it's the past. All I wanted was the truth. Myrto you have to make a choice. A life with me will not be easy, but I do care about you, and if you need me to give you and the baby my name, I will. If not, I'm sure your family can find other arrangements.

- I'm not sure if I can love you like a wife should.

- All I want from you is honesty and the proper respect any husband would deserve. Can you give me that?

- Yes...

- Then let's go and tell your family that I accept their terms.

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[End of chapter 13]

Once again I want to thank those of you who have followed, liked and commented on my story. It means a lot and gives me the motivation to publish my small stories. I am truly grateful. 💕

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