The apartment smelled faintly of fresh basil and garlic as Ethan pulled the pasta from its package. "Quick noodles today," he muttered, glancing at Gabriel. "I know you have work, so we can't spend hours on a feast."
Gabriel set his bag down, rolling up his sleeves. "Quick noodles are fine, as long as we make them together."
Ethan grinned, a little spark of mischief in his eyes. "Together? You mean, I do everything, and you supervise?"
Gabriel laughed, shaking his head. "I'll help… but mostly, I'll supervise you making a mess."
"Hey! I'm a professional in the making," Ethan protested, scooping water into the pot. "See? Precision!"
Gabriel leaned over, watching him with a soft smile. "Professional… with a little chaos on the side, I'd say."
Ethan flicked some water playfully toward him, earning a chuckle from Gabriel. "Careful, chef. You'll ruin my jacket."
"Your jacket's fine," Ethan said, nudging him gently. "It's your company I'm after."
