The aroma of a hearty meal filled the air as Amelia bustled about in the kitchen, humming to herself as she worked. The day had been long and eventful, but she felt a sense of contentment wash over her as she prepared a meal for the man she loved.
As she poured two glasses of red wine and laid out the finished dishes on the dining table, the sound of the front door opening made her heart skip a beat. Xander stepped into the apartment, a tired but warm smile on his face.
"You're home!" Amelia exclaimed, her face lighting up with joy.
"Home sweet home," Xander said, closing the door behind him and pulling Amelia into a tight hug. "I can't believe how good it feels to be here with you."
"You must be exhausted," Amelia said, her eyes filled with concern. "Sit down, relax. Dinner's ready."
Xander's eyes widened as he took in the spread she had prepared. "Wow, you've really gone all out," he said, his mouth watering at the sight of the food. "This looks amazing."
Amelia watched Xander sink into a chair, his shoulders sagging with exhaustion. "You've had a long day," she said, her voice soft with affection. "Why don't you go take a hot shower first? It'll help you relax. Dinner will still be here when you're done."
Xander opened his mouth to protest, but Amelia silenced him with a gentle kiss on the cheek. "Trust me," she said, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "A hot shower and some fresh clothes will do you wonders.
With a small grin, Xander nodded in agreement. "You're probably right," he said, stretching his arms over his head. "But don't start eating without me. I'll be back in a jiffy."
As Xander disappeared into the bathroom, Amelia set about lighting some candles and dimming the lights, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere. When he finally emerged, freshly showered and smelling of sandalwood, Amelia couldn't help but smile at how handsome he looked.
"Ah, much better," Xander said, running a hand through his damp hair. "Thank you, my love."
Amelia's smile widened as she saw the look of gratitude and love on Xander's face. "Anything for you," she said, her voice brimming with affection. "Now, let's eat before this food gets cold."
As they settled in at the table, the candles casting a soft, warm glow over the room, Xander and Amelia shared stories about their day. Xander regaled Amelia with tales of meetings and client interactions, while Amelia recounted the heartwarming farewell she'd received from her friends at the bar.
Their conversation flowed easily, punctuated by laughter and stolen glances as they savored the meal Amelia had prepared. Xander raved about the delicious pasta dish, exclaiming that it was some of the best he'd ever tasted.
"I'm just full of surprises, aren't I?" Amelia said playfully, a hint of pride in her voice. "You should know better than to underestimate me by now."
Xander reached across the table and took her hand in his, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Oh, trust me, my darling," he said, his voice low and husky.
"...I know better than to underestimate you," Xander continued, a playful smirk on his lips. "In fact, I'm beginning to suspect you might just be the most wonderful, amazing woman on the planet."
Amelia blushed at his words, a soft smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "Oh, stop," she said, brushing her hair back behind her ear. "You're just saying that because I fed you."
"No, I'm saying that because it's true," Xander replied, his tone serious and heartfelt. "I love you, Amelia.
"I love you too Xander," she said
Xander cleared his throat, his expression turning thoughtful as he wiped his mouth with a napkin. "Amelia," he said, a hint of warmth in his voice, "I know I said I could help you find a job, but I think it's important for you to make this decision yourself. So, tell me, what is your dream job? What kind of work would truly set your heart on fire?"
Amelia paused, considering Xander's question. She'd thought about this many times before, but now, with Xander's support and encouragement, the possibilities seemed endless
"I think," Amelia began, her voice slow and thoughtful, "that my dream job would involve working on campaigns that have a positive social impact. Maybe something in the non-profit sector, where I could really make a difference."
Xander's face lit up with excitement. "That sounds incredible, Amelia!" he exclaimed, his eyes shining with admiration. "And with your talent for writing and your passion for social justice, I think you'd be fantastic at it."
"Do you really think so?" Amelia asked, her voice tinged with wonder.
Xander nodded, his face radiant with pride. "Absolutely! You're one of the most talented, compassionate people I know. You could really make a difference in this world, Amelia."
Amelia smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her body at Xander's words. "I never thought I could make a career out of helping people," she said, her voice filled with awe. "But maybe you're right."
Xander reached across the table and took her hand in his. "You can do anything, Amelia," he said, his voice low and intense.
Amelia's words had stirred something deep in Xander's heart, a desire to see her realize her dreams and reach her full potential. He placed his hand over hers, his eyes shining with determination.
"Amelia, I'm going to make this happen for you," he said, his voice filled with conviction. "I know a few people who work in the non-profit sector, and I'm sure they'd be happy to help. I'll reach out to them and see what opportunities might be available. You deserve this, my love."
Amelia blinked back tears, her heart overflowing with gratitude.
"Xander, I can't believe you'd do this for me," Amelia said, her voice quivering with emotion. "You don't have to go to all this trouble..."
"It's not trouble, Amelia," Xander interrupted, his eyes locked on hers. "It's a privilege. I want to support you in any way I can, and if that means pulling a few strings to get you the job of your dreams, then that's what I'll do."
Amelia's heart soared with love for this amazing man, this partner who believed in her so completely.