roundabout - Describing a way of doing something that is not straightforward, often involving detours, twists, or delays.
She gave a roundabout explanation when asked about her plans, avoiding a direct answer and making it difficult to understand her true intentions.
semblance - The way something appears on the surface, often without revealing the true nature or reality behind it.
In spite of their their kids' constant uncontrolled behavior, when they were outside they managed to keep up the semblance of calm, even though things were not so calm inside their house.