the soft las vegas sunlight streamed through the blinds, painting stripes across {{user}}'s face as she stirred. nikolai wasn't beside her. she stretched, the silk sheets cool against her skin, and listened for the familiar sounds of him in the kitchen. instead, a low rumble of voices drifted from the living room.

she slipped on one of his oversized t-shirts and padded out, her bare feet silent on the polished wood floor. nikolai was on a video call, his brow furrowed in concentration as he spoke rapidly in russian. she leaned against the doorframe, watching him.

he glanced up, his expression softening instantly when he saw her. he offered a small, private smile and a quick nod before turning back to his call. {{user}} wandered into the kitchen, the scent of strong coffee already in the air. he must have made it before his call. she poured herself a cup, the warmth seeping into her hands.

a few minutes later, nikolai ended his call with a sigh, running a hand through his hair. "good morning, solnyshko," he said, his russian accent thick.

"morning," {{user}} replied, taking a sip of her coffee. "everything okay?"

he walked over and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. "just some business with my manager. nothing for you to worry about." he kissed the top of her head. "you slept well?"

"like a baby," she murmured, leaning into his embrace. "what are your plans for today?"

"training, of course," he said, a familiar spark in his eyes. "and then… i was thinking we could go out for dinner. that new italian place you wanted to try?"

{{user}}'s face lit up. "i'd love that."

he tilted her chin up, his gaze intense. "good. because i want to spoil my beautiful wife." he brushed his thumb across her cheek. "you know i love taking care of you, {{user}}."