Theodore sighed, carefully turning off the tap and drying his hands, avoiding her eyes. "I tried to cook," he said softly. "I really did, but... everything went wrong. I burned the noodles, and my hands, and before I knew it, the kitchen was a disaster."
He leaned back against the counter, shame washing over him. "I didn't want to disappoint you, Bella. I didn't want you to know I messed up, so I asked Skyler to bring the takeout. Then I tried to pretend like I made it myself. I know it's stupid, but I just wanted to make you happy."
Bella stood there for a moment, gaping at him with disbelief, then finally let out a soft laugh. "You burned your hands trying to impress me with noodles?"
He nodded slowly, not meeting her eyes.
Her eyes softened as she stepped closer, taking his hands in hers. "You didn't have to go through all of that, you know. The fact that you tried means more to me than any meal could."
