Work Text:
The whole thing was finally over. Victor and Zeno were dead, Leon was no longer infected, and the laboratory had been destroyed. After everything they had been through, Leon could finally go home.
As Leon walked through the remains of the scene, he noticed a woman in a hoodie being stopped by one of the soldiers.
“Sorry, ma’am. We can’t let anyone in, not even DSO members.”
Leon stepped forward with a small smirk.
“It’s okay. This is my wife.”
He removed his gloves, revealing his wedding ring. The soldier immediately apologized and stepped aside.
“What took you so long?” you asked, crossing your arms.
Leon walked toward you, his boots still covered in ash. He looked you over carefully before giving you a tired smile.
“Got held up saving the world. Sorry to keep you waiting, baby.”
You smiled softly. “Ready to go home, honey?”
“More than ready.”
He took your hand, lacing his fingers with yours.
“I've got a surprise for you,” you said with a grin.
“A surprise? Should I be nervous or excited?”
“It’s better if you see it. I left it at home.”
An hour later, the two of you arrived at your quiet little cottage. You immediately pulled him toward the garden.
“Follow me.”
Leon laughed as he followed. “Alright, alright. Don’t drag me so fast, honey.”
You stopped in front of a beautiful bougainvillea bonsai sitting in the middle of the garden.
“I got you this!”
Leon stared at it in surprise.
“It’s over 30 years old,” you said proudly.
His expression softened as he looked at the twisted trunk and bright magenta flowers.
“You remembered…”
“Do you like it?”
He stepped closer, gently touching one of its leaves.
“Like it? Baby, I love it. It’s perfect.”
You smiled. “It’s the one your mom planted. I just turned it into a bonsai. Don’t you think the planter looks familiar?”
Leon looked at the chipped blue glaze and immediately recognized the little crooked heart carved into its side.
It was the planter the two of you had made together during your trip to China.
His eyes grew watery as he pulled you into his arms.
“I can’t believe you did this. God, I don’t deserve you.”
You buried your face against his chest.
“I know it’s late, but... Happy birthday, Lee.”
Leon let out a quiet, emotional laugh before gently cupping your cheek.
“Best birthday I've ever had. I mean it. This is everything I ever wanted.”
You smiled. “I’m glad you like it.”
He pulled you close again as the sun began to set over the garden, the bonsai's magenta flowers glowing in the warm light.
“Like it?” he whispered, kissing the top of your head. “I love it. I love you. More than anything in this whole damn world.”