Of all that Bethany said, one thing jumps out at Aleron and it both thrills and terrifies him at once. He takes the offered parchment, but doesn't bother with looking at it. Not yet. Instead he turns his attention intent on his sweetheart's precious face. It is the one thing that he wants nearly as forcefully as his mother (and sisters if their own brands of prodding are any measure).

"Do you truly? Want children, that is."

He's been hounded the last ten years that it's beyond time for him to get on with his life and supply the vastly desired additional grandchildren. This year past has only fueled his mother's insistence more. Not that he is contrary enough to refuse just to spite her. But he has been so lost and alone it seemed too unlikely, and undeserved. That and there is that fear of what if? What if again?

The parchment is placed to the side, and Aleron reaches for both Bethany's hands. His eyes are lit with an excitement and a hope that one seldom sees outside of talking of obscure historical facts and books. And any mention of one Bethany Hawke.