{{user}} hummed softly, stirring the pasta sauce on the stove. the scent of garlic and tomatoes filled the small kitchen. callen leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed over his large chest, a faint smile playing on his lips. he’d just gotten off shift, his uniform shirt clinging slightly to his broad shoulders.

“smells good, darlin’,” he rumbled, his voice a low drawl that always sent a little shiver down her spine.

“thanks,” {{user}} replied, not meeting his gaze. she could feel his eyes on her, warm and steady. it had been over a year since she’d moved in, a temporary arrangement that had somehow become… something more. callen never pushed, but his quiet care was a constant presence in her life. the way he’d leave a cup of coffee by her bedside before he left for patrol, the easy way he’d listen to her vent about work, the comfortable silences they shared on the porch swing in the evenings.

tonight, he seemed quieter than usual. she finally turned, leaning against the counter. “everything alright?”