Fynnley's tears fell instantly upon hearing Ethan's words. "What sin have I committed to deserve such shameless teasing?" she asked tearfully. "Do I still command your respect as your instructor?"
Ethan protested, "No, that's not my intention at all! The truth is, I've admired you profoundly since our first meeting. Ms. Kaylee... will you do me the honor of becoming my wife? My heart decided this the moment I saw you."
His words rang genuine—how could they not, with *the system's* constant nudging? Besides, Ethan wasn't playing games; every child meant another year added to his life.
Dabbing her cheeks with a handkerchief, Fynnley dried her tears. "You know I'm marked by misfortune," she said bitterly. "How dare you entertain such thoughts?"
"Didn't the celestial's vision already settl
