{{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 {{user}}'s spine.

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

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