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The sound of a lock turning alerted Paul. He listened to the soft click and the janky doorknob turn, before hearing a door shut harshly. He smiled, taking off the washing gloves and going to the door to greet Emma.
“Hey Emma.” He grinned, taking her jacket and giving her a gentle kiss on the cheek.
“Hey Paul.” She sighed, smiling wearily.
“How was work today?” She had started working at Starbucks after the annoying singing gig at Beanie’s, but this meant longer and later shifts.
“It was exhausting. My boss is a fucking ass man.” She took her boots off and placed them in the shoe cabinet, before turning to look at him. “What’s for dinner?”
“I made some chicken curry; I was trying out a new recipe.” Emma gave an upside-down smirk of approval.
“Experimenting I see?”
Paul laughed, slipping his hands in his pockets. “Yeah, felt like trying something new today.”
“Ooooohhh.” Emma teased, slowly turning to walk into the living room.
“Just give me a minute to set it out onto the table.” Paul gestured to the table before walking to the kitchen. Emma listened to the sounds of plates clinking and drawers closing. She sat at the table, waiting patiently for her boyfriend.
“Ready!” Paul called out from the kitchen. He walked into the living room, carrying two plates of hot curry. He set them down on the table, one in front of Emma, and one where he was going to sit. “Hold on I forgot the forks.” He hurried back to the kitchen and brought back two forks. He handed one to Emma with a grin.
“Thanks Paw.” Emma took the fork, flashing him a hearty smile. Paul beamed at the nickname. He sat down and started to eat, his grin never leaving his face.
Emma took a bite and her face lit up. She ate more, face filling with delight. “This is so good Paul, Wow!” She said in between mouthfuls. Paul couldn’t be happier.
“Thanks Em. I try” He chuckled.
“What made you want to try something different today?”
“Well, I saw some recipes online and felt like giving it a go. I wanted to surprise you and I know you love a good meal.”
“That’s really nice of you Paw. I’m proud of you.” Paul could’ve melted. His heart sang with glee.
“I can tell you more about it and what I’m planning on making next.”
“Fucking go for it.”
Paul began to ramble, talking about all the different meals he saw and the steps. How long the food would take to make, the ingredients needed, the effort and time required, and how much fun he would have.
He went on and on as Emma stared in awe.
Paul eventually caught himself and started stuttering out an apology.
“Sorry, I-I didn’t mean to bore you. I just-”
“Paul, please. It’s fine. You’re fine. I’m happy for you.”
“Oh, I uhm-” He looked away, flustered.
“What recipe are you looking forward to most?"
Paul’s smile radiated.
“I love you Emma.”
"I know. I love you too Paul.”