Summary

Isaac and Skylar tackle a common issue between them: Skylar not being able to cook. While it doesn't particularly bother Isaac, his beloved is determined to make a change...and goes out of her way to surprise him one night. Isaac is twenty-seven in this story.

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A particularly cold winter evening it was, with busy townsfolk rushing here and there...trying to survive the remainder of the day at whatever jobs they were occupied with.

Though while they fought back against the frigid breeze outside...

I would be comfortably sealed within the warmth of my humble abode with my beautiful girlfriend, Skylar.

She was snuggled up close at my side, one arm wrapped around my upper back, and her other free hand rested atop my belly...while I had my chin gently laid upon her head. She leaned in even closer, planting a soft kiss on my neck.

"You smell nice." She murmured. "New cologne?"

I chuckled. "Passionfruit. You like?"

"I like a lot." Skylar replied. "Though nothing beats your famous lavender."

I nuzzled and kissed her forehead. She always knew what to say to make me feel good. What a delightful feeling of bliss it is...

I couldn't think of anyone better to spend my evening with. Work had been particularly stressful that day, but Skylar was quick to come to my rescue with one of her famous pep talks...and everything was alright again in an instant. She offered to spend a little time with me to make it even better, and how could anyone possibly say no? I'm always at my happiest when I'm with Skylar, and nothing in the universe could change that.

The crackling of my fireplace created a relaxing ambiance as we sat together in silence, simply just enjoying each other's company and warmth in the bitterness of winter. Shortly, however, the silence was broken all of a sudden by what sounded like a soft rumbling noise. At first I paid it no mind and proceeded with my state of bliss, but when it made itself known a second time, I knew for sure it wasn't my imagination.

I smirked. The source of the noise suddenly occurs to me, "Is that your tummy rumbling, Skylar, dear?"

"Hm? Oh yeah, I guess it is." She replied. "I've been rushing around so much all day that I haven't really had a chance to eat anything."

"Why didn't you say you were hungry? I could've made you something." I said.

Her reply is a weirdly casual shrug, and she reaches up to stroke my chest. "I like just sitting here with you."

"Pretty sure nourishment is more important, darling."

"But you're so warm and cuddly..."

I chuckled again. "Well, my apologies, dear, but no girlfriend of mine will sit through the rest of the night with an empty stomach. I'll make you some dinner."

"Nooo...let me cuddle you!"

I had started to stand up, but Skylar wasn't having it. She quickly wrapped her arms around my neck and yanked me back down to the couch cushions, holding me close in a tight restraint to prevent me from moving. I smiled in amusement, there was not a chance that I'd be apprehended that easily.

Still, I gave her the benefit of the doubt and humored her for a short moment. "When did you get so strong?"

"Oh, not too long ago..." She replied, pulling me even closer.

"Come on, dear, let me up." I said.

"No, you smell too good."

I scoffed. "A freshly made meal would smell so much better, I assure you."

She wasn't budging. Perhaps she was feeling extra playful...but her tummy's soft rumbles were only fueling my desire to make her a meal. I would not let her go hungry that night.

In the blink of an eye, I took her by surprise and scooped her straight up into my arms, bridal style. Skylar wasted no time in clinging to me like her life depended on it as I carried her away from the couch. She squirmed occasionally, as if such a further effort would deter me, though I had no intentions of being stopped.

"Sweetheart, come on! That's no fair!" Skylar remarked.

"You left me no choice, dear." I replied, chuckling. "Don't worry, you'll get plenty of cuddle time, later."

"But you take forever to cook!"

I plopped her down on my armchair and gave her belly a pat. "Sorry, dear, but it's for your own good."

"Gah! Your hands are cold!" She exclaimed.

"Maybe you shouldn't be wearing a crop top in the dead of winter, then!" I retorted as I approached the kitchen.

Skylar seemed like she was pouting in the corner of my vision. "It was warmer earlier!" She insisted. "And it's a sweatshirt crop top, for your information."

"Whatever you say, dear." I said. "I won't be long, give me fifteen to twenty-five minutes, tops."

"Any longer than that, and I'm physically dragging you back over here. Bet you won't survive." Skylar challenged.

I felt an enormous obnoxious laugh sitting in the back of my throat, but I held it back with an intense willpower. "Oh, how you underestimate me, my love."

So I got to work. Within mere minutes, the entirety of the kitchen and living room area was alive with the delightfully pleasant aroma of fresh herbs, spices, and a perfectly plump roasted eggplant. The bland odor of boiling pasta followed while I was preparing a savory dressing consisting of vinegar and assorted seasonings, whisking said ingredients so rapidly that I was positive I'd break my wrist...but that's a sacrifice I'd be willing to make for my beloved.

I caught her sneaking a glance at me while I was in my element, and promptly winked at her while giving a goofy grin. She smiled as she rolled her eyes and turned back, giving me the signal to pick up the pace. The pasta was shortly drained and eggplant was snatched from the oven, then diced into cubes along along with a moderate amount of cherry tomatoes...before being tossed together into a mixture with the pasta, a minimal bit of feta cheese, and the dressing. I garnished the final product with some oregano, then set the bowl in the center of the dining table. And thus, a perfectly healthy meal for my lovely lady was achieved in under twenty minutes.

I beckoned Skylar to come join me as I began setting the table for the both of us. She stood up and stretched luxuriously.

"Okay, fine, I'll admit it." She said, approaching the table. "I'm starving. What'd you make?"

"Roasted eggplant and olive pasta salad." I replied...perhaps a little too proudly.

"In less than twenty minutes? Impressive." Skylar praised.

I served equal portions for us along with two glasses of water, and we sat down and began to eat. Skylar lets out a long delighted sigh upon taking her first bite, all the while I'm feeling an exaggerated sense of pride well up in my chest.

"Mmm...sweetheart, this is fantastic." She said in between bites. "You've really outdone yourself."

"You know me, I aim to please." I replied.

"And please you did."

Silence followed, apart from the clinking of cutlery against our plates. I wondered what had Skylar so quiet, most of the time we would often be chatting up a storm over dinner together...whether it be about how each other's day was or just petty gossip. We would never run out of things to say.

Though this moment was clearly different. Something didn't feel right...

"You're awfully quiet." I said momentarily.
Skylar looked up at me in surprise like she didn't expect me to say anything.
"Sorry...I didn't realize." She replied, with somewhat of an awkward chuckle. "I was just thinking about something for a bit."

"Like what?"

"Um...nothing important."

She suddenly seemed troubled. I decided to get to the bottom of whatever the problem may be. "Is everything alright?"

"Oh, ah—"

"Wait. I know what you're going to say." I took a couple good gulps of my water and cleared my throat, then proceeded to do the most obnoxious girl voice I could muster...complete with fluttering eyelashes. "Ahem...'oh, Isaac, you worry too much, my darling. Everything's all sunshine and daisies, especially when I have a such a strong, handsome cuddly teddy bear like you for a boyfriend by my side all the time!'"

Skylar narrowed her eyes at me as she chuckled halfheartedly. "First of all, I do not sound like that." She insisted. "Second of all, how did you know I was going to say that everything's fine?"

"Oh, I've only heard such a response in situations like this so many times...how could I not know?" I inquired.

"Ugh, you're too smart for me..." Skylar grumbled. There was a glint of amusement in her eyes, bringing a smile to my face. I leaned closer and gave her a small peck on her cheek, as I rubbed her shoulder reassuringly. "What's wrong, ma chérie?"

She sighed, and paused for a bit. "Sweetheart, I can't cook. I've been thinking about it every now and then, and it's really starting to bug me the more I do. I just can't get it off my mind..."

"That's all?" I inquired. "Oh, Skylar, that's nothing to be ashamed of! Some people just aren't meant to be skilled in the kitchen."

Being quite honest, I'd unfortunately have to agree...Skylar isn't the best when it comes to making meals.

She's a master at baking, I know for sure. Treats like cookies, cakes, and pastries were a walk in the park for her, but something like a simple breakfast dish? Not so much. We've done everything we can to fix the matter, but nothing has seemed to work...and all efforts of ours have resulted in either ruined pots and pans or a disgustingly unpalatable dish. It's tiresome work, but I'm willing to go the extra mile for Skylar if she wants to keep pushing. Nothing is too hard for her.

"Yeah, but...that's not really what I want for myself...or us as a couple." Skylar continued. "I mean, look at this. You went out of your way to make a nice dinner for me when you didn't have to, and I should be able to do the same in return. What if you get hungry one night spending time with me at my house?"

"Ah...well, frozen fish sticks can still make for a nice dinner!" I said that to be supportive. I despise frozen fish sticks in reality. It was quite a surprise to walk in on Skylar making some for herself one day in the past.

Unfortunately, though, I could tell she bought into said bluff, thus causing the rise of the slightest bit of tension. Awkwardly but somewhat casually, I shoved a forkful of pasta into my mouth and sipped my drink...as if to prevent any further choices of poor words. "I mean...um...we still have Amber Orchid, our favorite restaurant...or takeout."

Skylar only sighed briefly as she shook her head in disappointment.

"I'm twenty-seven years old and living off an eight year old's diet..." She muttered. "What good of a girlfriend could I possibly be if I can't even cook for my boyfriend?"

I raised an eyebrow in confusion. "Skylar, such an inferior thing like that never mattered to me. I didn't know you felt so strongly about this..."

"Yeah, well, you receive so much scolding from your friends, it kinda starts to get to you after a while." Skylar replied, solemnly.

"Well, let me tell you something, dear." I said. "In my personal opinion, a relationship does not require for the two individuals involved to have a specific special skill. You could be unable to cook, clean, sing, dance, make love, and it wouldn't matter at all. What matters to me is that you, Skylar, are a sweet, nurturing, caring young woman...and words cannot express how grateful I am to have you as my girlfriend. Whether or not you can cook will not put a damper on that. Ever."

I planted a kiss on the back of her hand, prompting her solemn expression to brighten in an instant...almost like nothing was ever wrong. And seeing that beautiful smile of hers once again was more than enough for me to make this night absolutely delightful.

She giggled a short moment later. "Making love is a special skill?"

"I...ah...that's not what I—" I was suddenly blushing. That phrase had went way over my head...I didn't even realize I had said it. I think I was just giving examples of random things, and it slipped out somehow... "I mean...there could be some people in the world who aren't able to—"

"Sweetheart, relax. I'm just messing with you." Skylar insisted. "In all seriousness, though, that really means a lot to me. You always know what to say to make me feel better, I couldn't think of a better man to have in my life."

She leaned in and gave me a kiss on my cheek. "I love you."

"I love you too, my darling."

A few days later...

The days went on. Sunny with the occasional overcast skies while maintaining a oddly reasonable temperature. Perfect weather for some time outside.

Although...I honestly couldn't have imagined spending it alone.

Skylar seemed to have gone transparent after our night together. The most we had been able to see each other was through a casual phone or video call, where she often claimed to be busy if I tried to schedule for us to meet again. It was...odd.

I knew for a fact that her job isn't really as demanding as mine, so it wasn't like her to be unavailable for so long...not to mention that she was a master at making time of her own. I couldn't help but to wonder if I was the reason for her absence. Perhaps I had said something wrong?

I decided not to dwell on that for too long, however. Skylar would get in proper contact with me when she was available, and I knew that for a fact. Besides, one day in particular this week was too beautiful for me to not enjoy.

I took a drive up to the park during my lunch break for some time to myself, taking in the refreshing atmosphere as I sat down at one of the benches in the field. The sky was a bright, crisp clear blue with fluffy clouds scattered in small clusters...and the air smelled strongly of fresh dew and flowers. Around me, children frolicked and screeched with happiness as they played on nearby playground equipment with their parents watching from a distance...it brought a bit of an obvious smile to my face, and I hoped no one had noticed.

Do I want kids...?

"Yo, boss!"

I was snapped out of my thoughts. There was only one person in the world with such a ridiculously recognizable voice such as the one I just heard.

Lo and behold, the source approached me. And it had to be none other than my friends/coworkers, Jason and Bruce.
I don't know what it was about those two, but it always seemed like whenever I got some time to myself, they were always there to put an end to that. And after working with so many incompetent people for most of the day already, it's quite difficult to put up with whatever antics they may have in store for me. Although, as usual, I let them use me as a cure for their boredom.

"Afternoon, boys." I greeted. "Did you get the work I assigned you done today?"

"Oh, we sure did, boss!" Bruce declared proudly.

"And there were no accidents this time!" Jason added.

I nodded in satisfaction. "Excellent job."

It is such a relief when they actually listen to me...

Bruce shortly changed the subject. "Sooo...how are things?"

"Things are well." I replied. I don't mean to sound too curt, but conversations with this duo have a tendency to be rather demeaning. It's hard not to fear what lies in store with them...so I hardly ever encourage it.

"Just well?" Jason asked. "Nothing special going on?"

"No, not necessarily."

I noticed that they were suddenly staring at me simultaneously with identical dopey expressions. I had no clue what it meant, but it quickly made me uncomfortable...like I was sitting at a job interview with two creepy circus clowns. It wasn't until several heartbeats later when I finally couldn't take it anymore and decided to break the silence. "Are you two alright?"

Bruce nodded. "Oh, we're fine. Just...taking in the scenery."

They were still staring directly at me.

"How bout food, and your health lifestyle?" Jason asked, unaware of how odd they were behaving. "Receive any special meals from a...oh, I don't know...certain someone?"

"Um...no?"

Bruce smacked the table in eureka. "I knew it, Jason! I knew it, didn't I tell you I knew it?!"

"Yes, yes, you did, Bruce..." Jason replied.

"What are you two up to?" I asked, despite being afraid to find out.

The boys both sat up straight and folded their hands, while their facial expressions became stern...much like a father preparing to scold his children. This was the most professional I had seen them act in years...if they could put this exact same energy into their work, I'd be thrilled.
But at this current moment, I could only wonder what I could have possibly done to deserve it.

"Boss, we want to stage an intervention." Bruce finally said.

"An intervention?" I echoed in disbelief. "For what reason? Not once in my life have I ever done drugs, or been an alcoholic. I mean...yes, I love wine as much as the next person, but I'm no addict."

Jason shook his head. "That's not what it's for, boss."

"It's about you and Skylar." Bruce added.

"Don't get us wrong, she's a fantastic girlfriend for you, but...the woman can't cook."

I dug my nails into the table. "I beg your pardon?"

Bruce flashed me a look of disbelief. "Come on, boss! You're smart, this should be a no brainer!" He insisted.

"Perhaps it is the honest truth..." I replied, disgruntled. "But please...do inform me of how it's such a relevant issue." I had a feeling that my patience was about to be tested...

Jason put on his best look of sophistication, clearing his throat to prepare for what was likely going to be some sort of bizarre explanation.

"Studies show that exclusive relationships are fifty percent healthier when the female half of said partnership can sufficiently pull their weight when it comes to cooking for the male half." He said. "We just want to make sure you're maintaining a healthy relationship, boss!"

"I've heard of no such studies." I retorted in an tired tone. "I don't know what convoluted nonsense you two have been reading on the internet, but I promise you that it has no connections to my relationship with Skylar. Which is more than perfectly healthy, if I might add."

Unfortunately for me, the boys didn't seem convinced. They looked annoyed, in fact, bearing a familiar display that someone would only often give me if I were lost in one of my moments of stubbornness...though that was something that hasn't happened in quite a while. It was beyond any comprehension of mine that these two would actually have a reason to do such a thing.

"Pfft, please." Jason scoffed.

"Boss, you know we be spittin' straight facts." Bruce added. "If we weren't, then how come you always get nervous when Skylar says she's gonna make food?"

"And exactly when was such an occurrence?" I inquired.

"Some time ago at our house." Jason replied a little too enthusiastically. "We were all playing poker, and me and Bruce decided to make some refreshments. Then when Skylar offered to help, there was a visible expression of concern on your face."

I didn't distinctly remember that night, but I could somewhat get a slight visual. Perhaps I did seem a bit nervous, and I'm most certainly not proud of it. It was just an unfortunate response I have when someone who lacks proper culinary skills decides to cook for me. Though I wasn't about to let Jason and Bruce, of all people, call me out for it.

"I hope you two didn't come here only to ruin my afternoon alone because you're coming rather close to pushing the limits." I said in a low voice.

Bruce shrugged. "We're just sayin', boss."

"Cooking is just a required life skill, something that Skylar doesn't have...which makes us worry about your relationship." Jason added.

This conversation was pure mutiny. "This is not the Dark Ages! The woman is not required to cook or clean or knit clothing and whatnot to be efficient in a relationship!" I objected.

Bruce made an obnoxious "tsk tsk" sound. "Dang, that's some real denial right there." He said. "I mean, you know what they say, boss! A way to a man's heart is through his liver!"

I didn't hesitate to display my confusion. "Excuse me?"

"No, no...Bruce, it's 'a way to a man's heart is through his pancreas'!" Jason insisted.

"Ah–what? The saying is 'a way to a man's heart is through his stomach'." I corrected while in utter disbelief.

Now Jason and Bruce were visibly confused, like they themselves had supposedly never heard the saying before.
"Really? Are you sure?" Jason asked.

"Yes, because when you eat food, it's stored and digested in the—" I cut myself off, burying my face in my hands. It suddenly just occurred to me that my coworkers were a lot more dense than I had originally thought. "Please tell me you didn't think food goes to your liver or pancreas after you eat..."

"Sooo...you're saying it doesn't?"

"How on earth did you both graduate college???" I groaned.

They stunned me once more when they tried to defend their case. "Boss, you know we struggled in high school, though!" Bruce said. "And this is some high school level knowledge!"

"I knew it when I was three!" I forced myself to say without shouting.

"That's not the point, boss!" Jason piped up again. "The point is, you know the saying, and therefore you know that a woman needs to do her best to make sure she's earned her man's heart. You better step up, boss, and get the girl some cooking lessons."

I could no longer believe the sheer ridiculousness of what I was hearing. How could these two have the audacity to tell me that my girlfriend not being able to cook was a problem, and be associated with our private business like that? Who exactly did they think they were...and what have they even ever cooked in their lives?

Abruptly shooting up from my seat, I grit my teeth angrily through closed lips. It was time to teach those fools a lesson.

"Look." I growled. "I care not for your false facts and nonsensical logic. I love Skylar for who she is, not for how efficient she can be in the kitchen. She does not need to feed me to win my heart, she has already got it...and I sure as hell am not about to let you two numbskulls tell me how to run my relationship—"

Fortunately for them, I was cut off by my phone buzzing in my back pocket before I could do anything too absurd. Skylar had texted, she wanted to know if I would join her for a dinner date that night. What perfect timing.

I regained my composure, clearing my throat as I straightened my shirt collar.
"You know what? I don't need this." I said. "There is no point wasting my breath on an inferior argument. Expect your pay to be docked for this. Good day."

"But boss—!"

"I said, good day."

And that was it. Without another word, I strutted away from the table where Jason and Bruce still sat...leaving them to think about their poor choice of behavior. They were fortunate I hadn't stayed to listen any longer. Anyone who talks about my girlfriend in a negative manner has another thing coming to them.

A few hours later, at Isaac's house...

A shower. That was all I needed to completely expel myself from reality and dispose of all the day's impurities that threatened to damage my sanity. The hot water and soothing steam were calling my name, and I would answer eagerly.

I stepped inside, positioning myself right underneath a sensation of complete refreshment. The stream welcomed me in it's warm embrace practically with open arms, relaxing my stiff muscles while rinsing away my troubles. Beads of water trickled down my face and brought a smile to my lips. I let the shower thoughts take over as my maddening conversation with Jason and Bruce had begun to disperse itself from my mind. Finally, I was at ease again.

Thoroughly soaked, I began to cleanse. The soft suds and bubbles produced by my body wash of choice filled the air with a revitalizing mint aroma. I felt even more relaxed, like I was drifting away atop a fluffy steam cloud on a bright blue river. Perhaps when Skylar would see me, she herself would also be relaxed simply with the sight of me being a breath of fresh air. It's often a rare occasion when I'm already feeling blissful prior to meeting up with her, after all.

I shortly began to finish up, quickly scrubbing my hair with some lavender shampoo as a finishing touch, then dunked myself under the soothing water stream for a final rinse. Ah, what a delightful way to cleanse the body and the soul...a long hot relaxing shower is never an unreliable moment of peace.

The cold air hit hard as I shut off the water and exited the shower, but instantly faded as soon as I started to dry myself off. When I was finished, I tossed on some fresher clothes that didn't contain the stench of chemicals and metal, then doused myself in a healthy cloud of cologne. Mr. Pugglesworth gave an absurdly loud sneeze when the strong scent of lavender drifted in his direction.

I chuckled. "You think I overdid it?"

Pugglesworth huffed.

"Heh, well Skylar likes the lavender, and that's all that matters." I said. "Give me a moment to do my hair, and then we'll leave."

I returned to the bathroom and ran a couple fingers through my hair. Softer than a hamster's fur. Odd comparison, I know, but have you ever felt a hamster's fur?
With a blow dryer and a brush, I gave my plum colored locks a good fluffing, and at last...I was ready. Ready to see my lovely lady yet again after a long day of work.
I swiped up Mr. Pugglesworth and we bolted out the door.

My stomach felt hollow like a brittle log sat in the middle of the woods. Though while Skylar was the number one priority, I cannot possibly lie, I was very hungry...and also couldn't wait to sink my teeth into a fat wood fire grilled steak.

Fifteen minutes later...

I exited my car. Crickets were chirping in the silent winter night as me and Mr. Pugglesworth approached Skylar's door. Throughout the entire ride to her house, I had found myself fantasizing about every single moment we were about to spend together. What would she wear? How was she feeling? Did she change her hairstyle at all? Oh, my mind was swirling with several possible details. I was beyond excited...and likely going through withdrawal. A few times, I had to remind myself that it was just a normal dinner date, nothing more. But still, it's always a pleasure to see my dearest Marshmallow, no matter what the occasion was.

I rang the doorbell and waited patiently. Not even a second later, I was answered.

There she was, the love of my life.

Her eyes gleamed like the brightest of stars in the moonlight, while her face glowed with utmost happiness at the sight of me standing there. I don't think I've ever seen a more beautiful sight.

"Hey there, handsome." She purred.

"Salutations, my darling." I replied.

I whisked her into my arms while she wrapped hers around my neck, as we locked lips in a long, luxurious kiss. She carried the wonderful aroma of a refreshing summer day at the beach, complete with crisp ocean waves and a soft, cool breeze. I fell straight into a pleasurable state of ecstasy.

"You smell good." We said in unison.

"Jinx! You owe me a soda!"

We laughed, and I set her down, getting lost in her sparkling green gaze as she led me inside.

"You been doing alright, lately?" She asked. "I know it's been a little bit since we've seen each other."

I gave a small nod. "I've been well, I suppose. Things have just been quite...interesting lately while on my own."

"Oh, really? How so?" Skylar asked.

I sighed, briefly thinking back to my earlier feud with Jason and Bruce. Part of me really wanted to break into a rant, let out all my suppressed frustrations...but Skylar didn't need that at the moment. With a long, beautiful night together ahead of us, there wasn't any reason for me to have her worry about how I was feeling. Spending time with her would be enough to have me get over it, anyway.

"Mm...I don't know." I ended up saying. "Perhaps maybe not interesting but just...rather quiet. It was odd not spending time with someone every other night. I missed you."

Skylar smiled. "Aw, sweetheart...I missed you too."

She kissed my cheek, as I pulled her in for a hug. A moment or two later I felt the sensation of fur brushing up against my leg, and I glanced down to find a familiar black and white tuxedo cat looking back up at me with big round eyes, purring happily.

"Looks like Oliver did, too." Skylar said, chuckling.

I reached down to scratch his head and ears, to which he responded with a soft meow. I'm not really a cat person, but Oliver –and a few members of DarknessClan– were an exception. You don't see many sweet little kittens like him very often, in my opinion.

I heard paws scrabbling across the carpet, and there came Mr. Pugglesworth hopping about excitedly around Oliver. Oliver meowed again as he crouched down in a playful manner, then the two began chasing each other around the room...occasionally stopping to wrestle.

"Well, now that they're occupied..." I said. "It's time for dinner, is it not?"

Skylar stopped me. "I...um, couldn't get us a reservation until 8:00. Sorry..."

"Oh, well...I suppose that leaves us an hour of cuddle time to catch up on, hm?" I inquired, as she giggled.

"Yes indeed it does. I'd throw you on that couch if I were strong enough."

"Hehe...allow me."

I scooped her up in my arms yet again and tossed her on the couch...flopping right down next to her before allowing myself to get comfortable. She snuggled up close to me, wrapping an arm around my backside as she began gently caressing my belly. I sighed with delight. Skylar felt so warm, so soft...and I couldn't get over how beautiful her smile was. I don't think I could've been any happier that night.

Everything was just so perfect...

Another random jump cut later...

I had drifted off. My dreams were filled with white sandy beaches on warm summer afternoons, beautiful orange marmalade sunsets, and Skylar...always by my side to enjoy every single little moment with me. We would sit alone together, sipping wine and nibbling on chocolates as we gazed out at the clear blue ocean waves as they lapped gently against the shore. I was at such peace, I would've loved for it to never end...

"Sweetheart, wake up."

The slight chill of the current winter evening returned as I groggily opened my eyes, finding myself back in Skylar's living room again. She remained curled at my side, looking a bit weary eyed...but well rested. It appeared that we had both fallen asleep.

"Goodness gracious..." I said, yawning. "What a nap that was. My apologies about that, dear, it's been a rather long day."

Skylar rubbed her eyes. "No worries, sweetheart, it happens. I was pretty exhausted too, anyway."

She then pulled out her phone to check the time, and promptly cursed out loud. When I glanced over to see what the issue was, I couldn't help but to do the same. The clock read 9:05...we had been sleeping for a whole hour, when we should've been taking off down the road, long gone.

"Dammit! We missed our reservation..." Skylar exclaimed. "There's no way we'd get a seat now, with how crowded it usually gets over there."

I couldn't agree more. Amber Orchid being a well known, high quality restaurant often meant that a reservation was pretty much the only way to guarantee a table in less than ten minutes...otherwise, one would be waiting for hours. And since it was so late already, they would just be closing even before we were called by the host or hostess.

I started to say something about our predicament, but I couldn't get a word out. I was interrupted by the sudden growling of my empty stomach, as it sliced through the silence with ease like a hot knife through butter. The absurdity of how loud that was had me quickly realizing that the measly protein bar I had for breakfast hadn't done it for me. I was utterly famished.

"Ugh..." An audible groan escaped my lips while I rubbed my stomach. "Lord almighty..."

"Someone's hungry." Skylar said.

I felt my cheeks flushing hot with embarrassment in an instant. "Pardon me...I haven't really had that much to eat today, heh..."

Skylar laughed as she gave my stomach a few pats. "Aw...if we had actually left an hour ago, you would've had that steak dinner you dreamed of." She purred in endearment.

I sighed softly as I fantasized about that for a brief moment. I would've loved it, but that opportunity was unfortunately gone with the wind. As hungry as I was in that moment, however, I could have consumed a horse.

"Well...with that now out of the question..." I said. "What do you suppose we do for dinner? Personally, I wouldn't mind a bit of takeout...or even a nice, gourmet pizza, possibly?"

"Actually, I was thinking I might cook."

My heart sank. "Come again?"

"Yeah, I don't mind whipping up something real quick." Skylar replied. "Should save us some money."

I couldn't help but to be confused...though also mostly nervous. Skylar almost never offers to cook, and it's safe to say that we both know exactly why. Where was she going with this?

"Ahaha...y-you don't have to do that, dear." I stammered.

She raised an eyebrow with some sort of mock inquiry, then tickled my chin. "Why not? It's the least I can do for my sweet purple teddy bear."

"Uhhh..." It felt like she was guilting me...I couldn't completely tell. Whatever this scheme so happened to be had me struggling to come up with an excuse, regardless. "Because...why get busy in the kitchen when you can get busy right here with me?"

I pulled her close, stroking her hair lovingly in an exaggerated manner that I hoped would change her mind. But Skylar was not so quick to be outwitted by me...she refused to take no for an answer.

"Nice try." She said, grinning from ear to ear as she stood up. "You get comfortable, m'kay? I won't be long."

I tried again, but I couldn't stop her from entering the kitchen. She began to rummage through cabinets and cupboards, eventually retrieving a variety of cooking supplies...though I could hardly pay attention to the things she had chosen. I was so nervous that I had goosebumps, and my skin crawled like I had contracted fleas. How much more pathetic could one possibly feel?

Skylar's sweet voice suddenly cut my negative thoughts short. "How bout a little treat while you wait?"

She reached into another cabinet, then brandished a large bottle of wine. I was instantly in awe.

The bottle was gilded with bright streaks of gold along it's sides, sealed tightly with a silver cap studded with tiny jewels and topped with a plastic pink rose. The scarlet liquid inside sparkled beautifully in the light as if it were laced with glitter, and a velvet label on the very front spelled out the words Douce Rose Écarlate. Perhaps the most elegant of all the alcoholic drinks I have seen in my lifetime, and most definitely one that I have longed to taste.

"Heard you wanted a couple sips of this." Skylar chirped.

"How did you get it?" I asked. "It's like...fifteen hundred dollars for one bottle."

"It was actually a gift from a nice client at work." She replied. "This oughta keep your tummy busy until I finish, hm?"

She poured me a glass, holding my gaze as she was still grinning. I grinned back in an attempt to play along, but I could still feel a slight chill run down my spine. There was absolutely no turning back now.

Skylar got to work. I took a sip of wine to relax my thoughts. It was a perfectly sweet flavor with somewhat of a tart aftertaste, like fresh berries and pineapple. Very much exactly how I imagined it to be...but perhaps even a little bit more divine. I thought it would be enough to take my mind off of what was soon to approach me, but then I heard pots and pans clanging in the kitchen. I took another sip.

Time went by. I didn't pay attention to how much...as I was too focused on how Skylar was doing. She seemed fine every time I glanced over, smiling or winking at me whenever she caught my gaze. Though every little mild inconvenience had me concerned that whatever she was cooking would be ruined, or worse...she would hurt herself trying to make it. And the amount of willpower it took for me not to rush in and help was growing rather immense...but it seemed that Skylar wasn't quite looking for assistance, anyway.

"You alright over there, sweetheart?" She soon asked me.

I replied somewhat awkwardly, "Just fine, my dear."

I was beginning to wonder what was keeping her. It was going on ten o'clock at this point, which left me no choice but to slow down on the wine...since too much could only do so good on an empty stomach. And Skylar says I take forever to cook?

After a few more minutes, however, she beckoned me to join her at the dining table, where she placed a large baking tray that supposedly contained her choice of cuisine. I approached...hungry, but still apprehensive. Although, when my stomach groaned in protest just as I had taken a seat, I could tell that my appetite would be quick to overwhelm any conflicting thoughts of mine.

"Aww, poor baby." Skylar cooed. "You sound so hungry."

"Rightfully so. You sure took your time, didn't you?" I teased.

She grinned, refilling my glass of wine. "Can't rush perfection, dear."

I suddenly felt the incurable desire to cringe, and had to bite my lip to keep from doing so. Skylar chuckled a second later.

"I'm just kidding, I know it's not perfect." She said in a gentle tone. "But it's the best I can possibly do."

She pushed the tray of food closer. It appeared to be some sort of large bread bake topped with a cheese and spinach spread, while the crusts surrounding it were glistening with a garlic butter glaze. Overall, it looked alright...

But looks can be deceiving.

Skylar served us each a slice, then sat down and eagerly watched for my reaction. Even with the concoction's surprisingly pleasant aroma, I was still eyeing it suspiciously with caution. It took me a whole minute before I could even pick up a knife and fork, and I came very close to using my allergy as an excuse not to eat it...but then quickly remembered that Skylar knows I usually take lactose pills before we go out to dinner. There was no way out of this...and I was only delaying the inevitable.

I promptly cut into my share of the meal, holding the small bite that my fork contained several centimeters away from my lips. Then, with slight hesitation, I shoved it in my mouth and swiftly began to chew.

My conflicting thoughts suddenly escaped me.

"Whoa..." I breathed. "Hold on a moment..."

I chewed slower as I took a bigger bite. Each individual flavor thoroughly coated my palate while overwhelming my senses in a very pleasing manner. Skylar remained observant of me, the smirk she currently wore clearly growing bigger...though I paid it no mind. I was in too much of a shock...

The dish was absolutely delicious.
It was so simple, yet so immaculate. Rich, cheesy, ingredients balanced perfectly...with each bite that I took being more comforting and flavorful than the last. Just like dipping fresh garlic bread in spinach artichoke dip served at the finest of dining establishments, while seated in soft leather armchairs. I don't think I can recall another time where I had been so stunned...Skylar had really outdone herself.

And I felt like an idiot for doubting her...

"You haven't said a word for the past minute, so it must be good." She commented.

"It's more than good." I finally managed to say. "It's absolutely fantastic."

I saw a glimmer of pride in her eyes, almost like she expected me to say that. "Really? You think so?"

"Without a doubt, my dear."

"Hm...that's interesting, because I'm pretty sure I saw you shaking nervously over there on that couch the whole time I was cooking." Skylar retorted, grinning.

"I know...you did." I confessed. "I'm sorry, I just...ah...you know me, I can be a bit of paranoid mess sometimes. And...I got a bit worried that you would hurt yourself, or something..."

She caught on to my bluff again, the look on her face had made it blatantly obvious.

I sighed, feeling more ridiculous than I did a minute ago. "Alright...maybe I was worried that the food would be inedible, as well, but...it was foolish of me to doubt you like that. I promise, dear, that from here on out I will be nothing but your full time support. You deserve better than how I acted tonight."

"Well, don't beat yourself up over it a whole bunch." Skylar said. "Honestly, I would doubt myself too, considering my history with preparing meals."

I chuckled, thinking of all those times in the past where cooking lessons with Skylar have resulted in...well, what usually could be considered disaster. It made for a good laugh in the end, though, that was for sure. Even when my kitchen became the equivalent of a pigsty.

"How did you learn to do this, then?" I asked, gesturing to Skylar's dish.

"I started to think about it..." She replied. "I can't cook, but I can bake. And I've baked fresh garlic bread before, but that's not really a meal on its own. So I went over to Eden's place to discuss some ideas, then Beast Boy showed up...demanding that we do something vegetarian, and we all decided on something with spinach artichoke dip. Then, after practicing for a couple of days, I somehow managed to achieve this. Only took like...three thousand attempts."

"Well, with an end result such as this, the effort was most definitely worth it." I said, stroking the back of her hand. "I'm proud of you, dear."

Skylar blushed a little. "Hey, you know what they say, the way to a man's heart is through his stomach."

I almost scoffed in response to such a simple sentence, as my earlier converse with Jason and Bruce suddenly reappeared in my subconscious. How could anyone believe in a saying so inferior as that one? No woman in the world should feel that they need to cook to impress their partner. Period.

"My love, you don't need to cook or anything to win my heart." I said. "I love you for who you are as a person, I told you that."

"I know, but...I think you deserved a bit of a surprise for being the best boyfriend in the world." Skylar replied.

Now I was redder than a tomato. "Aw, shucks..."

That was my sweetheart, alright.

Never a dull moment when she's around.

[Insert random jump cut title here]

My glass of wine was draining rapidly, and so was Skylar's. It was all we had left, as not even the tiniest crumb of her dish remained by the time we were done with it...and the half full bottle of Douce Rose Écarlate was practically taunting us. Luring us in with it's mesmerizing flavor, forcing us to fight back against the urge to refill our glasses. We couldn't get enough of it, but I knew that any more was not a good idea. My thoughts had begun wandering as a result of the portion that I had already drank.

I could tell Skylar's were as well. The both of us stared lazily at the ceiling, absent minded beyond our own beliefs as we laid sprawled out together on the couch...entangled in each other's arms and legs. Her fingertips tickled the soft strands of my hair while she was gently running her other free hand along my comfortably full stomach. I could've been purring louder than a kitten if it were physically possible for a human to actually purr. This night couldn't have been any better. Most certainly worth the wait.

I downed the last of what remained of my glass.

"You want some more?" Skylar asked. Her speech was a bit slurred.

"I really shouldn't." I mumbled. "Two glasses is really more than enough...though at the same time, I don't think I've ever tasted a wine as beautiful as this one."

Skylar giggled. "Then live a little, Baby Bear. I won't tell anyone."

I couldn't resist. Her sharp green gaze was becoming hypnotic. I liked it. "Alright. Perhaps another sip and a half will do."

She nodded, taking my glass along with her own before returning to dining table where the expensive bottle resided. I found that my gaze was falling squarely on her rump as she replenished our drinks, that alone told me that I was at least partially intoxicated if not fully...

...and feeling a little frisky.

There was no harm in making things a little more magical, right?

"You know..." I said, "this night had to be the best of all the nights we've had together. The food was exquisite, your company was more than perfect, and I'm truly grateful for it all. But...I think there might be a little more of a surprise that you can provide me tonight."

"Oh, really?" Skylar returned to the couch with our drinks, smirking. She clearly knew where I was getting at, and compliantly played along. "What are you implying?"

I simply just gulped down the last bit of wine I requested. "That I've had a little too much to drink tonight."

"Oh? Feeling a bit tipsy, are we?" Skylar inquired. "I believe that makes two of us, then."

She set down her glass and threw herself at me, but I quickly slipped away before she could make a collision.
"Not here. Too many witnesses." I gestured to the sleeping Mr. Pugglesworth and Oliver on the floor a few meters away from us.

Still giggling like a schoolgirl, Skylar fluttered her eyelashes as she stalked towards me, hips swaying with rhythm and seduction while my gaze was firmly locked on them. It felt like I was being approached by some sort of goddess. A goddess possessing a big bright beautiful aura used to lure men like me right into her grasp. Oh, good lord above, she was so sexy.

"Let me show you another one of my 'special skills.'" She tugged on the waistline of my pants.

I wrapped my arms around her and slowly ran my hands downwards along the curvature of her body, fondling her buttocks as my palms had come in contact. "Do your worst."

My trousers loosened. In the blink of an eye, Skylar had undid my belt and tugged it free from my waist...tossing it over my neck before tightening it just enough for it to become a restraint. Like a dog's leash and collar.

Her eyes blazed ferociously when she pulled me even closer and whispered in my ear. "You're mine tonight."

"Montez-moi comme un cheval." I whispered back.

Our gazes locked. I could no longer think straight.

Everything in my subconscious consisted of nothing but Skylar's gorgeous figure.

I wanted her.

I wanted her bad.

She dragged me up the stairs. I followed obediently, forcing several kisses upon her lips while her passionate hold on my person became exceptionally intense. I felt dazed, but full of ecstasy and desire. I knew very well that I was but a mere fly entangled in her web...waiting not so patiently as my impending doom approached me head on. Except I had every intention of letting her eat me alive.

We stumbled into the bedroom and let our lips meet yet again in another kiss, to which I unleashed a long moan of pleasure in response...sharply inhaling her sweet scent as if it were my life source.

"Oh, Skylar..." I moaned, my body heat rising.

"Oh, Isaac!" She exclaimed in return.

I slipped my trench coat off my shoulders and let it fall to the floor. Skylar ripped open my shirt, I pulled hers over her head then promptly discarded it across the room. And the next thing I knew, our pants laid draped over the nightstand...and the bedroom door was slamming shut.

The rest, you ask?

Well, the rest...was surely history.

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Example A of a story I wished I could've rewritten. It's a little better now that I've revised it, but I'm thinking it could've been something more. Perhaps in the future, I'll make a change...?

Nonetheless, I hope y'all enjoyed!