"If both of my children are glad to tell me that, then more reason for me to change their minds." May sighed and propped her chin in her hand. "It does not matter how they see you, but how we raised them. I raised independent children, yes, but they still should respect the traditions of my parents and their parents before them.
To not forget where they came from. Some mornings I wake and fear I allowed them to embrace the American way of doing things too much. That if their father did not pass away, they would not have left so far from home. They may not see you as a father, as you say, but as my husband you will be the head of this household. You will not be imposing your will, but they will honor and should seek your judgment. I need more than just a friend, Noah. I need someone who can help me nurture this family. That means more to me than anything else in this world."