We've actually talked at length about the kids thing before. His stance is that, if it's something I want and at the time it makes sense in our lives (financially, career wise, stability) then he'd consider it. But that he doesn't have some burning desire to be a father.

He didn't phrase it like "oh, I'll take one for the team and just father a couple of kids with you, no big deal." It was more like it's not something he necessarily feels like he needs for his life, but that he'd most likely be okay with it if the timing is right and I want it.

So. I would 100% never marry someone unless the kid thing is sorted. But I wouldn't feel very confident in my partner if they didn't want kids just as much as I did. They shouldn't be a comprise, and I'd constantly worry about having to shoulder the brunt of parenting if they aren't emotionally invested, either. Not to mention the affect it'll have on the kid(s).

I just always figured we'd revisit the topic when it was actually relevant to our lives and situations in the somewhat near future, although I will admit that it's a fear in the back of my mind that is probably helping fuel my uneasiness.