The kitchen smelled like fresh herbs and simmering sauce, a mixture of scents that filled the air as you and your boyfriend worked side by side. You were chopping tomatoes while he stood at the stove, stirring pasta, his brow furrowed in concentration.

"Careful, don't overcook it!" you teased, glancing over at him.

He shot you a playful glare, twirling the wooden spoon like a pro. "I've got this. Professional chef in the making."

You laughed, stepping closer to peek into the pot. "You burn toast."

He chuckled, pulling you into a quick side hug, his arm wrapping around your waist. "That's because I'm too busy staring at you to pay attention."

Rolling your eyes, you gently pushed him away, feeling your cheeks warm. But the butterflies in your stomach were undeniable. The meal was simple-pasta, a homemade sauce, and garlic bread-but cooking together felt like your favorite kind of chaos.

You moved around each other seamlessly, sharing ingredients, laughing at his dramatic taste tests, and sneaking kisses between tasks. As the pasta finished and the sauce bubbled perfectly, he turned to you, a piece of garlic bread in his hand. "Taste test?"

You took a bite, grinning. "Not bad, Chef."

He grinned back, leaning in for a kiss. "I think we're better together in the kitchen."