Despite the late hour, the pair of lovers had a lovely time in the washroom, immersing themselves in the moment upon their reunion.

Still, Lariette didn't linger once she was done, still having important things to do.

Stepping out of the tub, she rinsed alone in the shower cubicle. And then, she told him to take his time while she prepared some food for him.

"Lettie, it's fine. I can just drink some milk later."

"No, honey. Milk won't suffice. I'll go to the kitchen first."

Ruediger finally relented. Still soaking in the tub, he watched Lariette, clad in a towel, leave the washroom.

His gaze caught the droplets trailing down her graceful neck, passing her shoulder blades before disappearing beneath the fabric.

He didn't want to bother her, but he couldn't deny he was indeed hungry. He only ate a little during dinner before preparing to return home. His simple lunch had long been digested by him.

'What'll she make?'

Ruediger was slightly refreshed as he stepped out of the washroom with a towel hanging around his tapered waist. He made sure the washroom was clean and the tub was drained.

After wearing a comfy sweater and joggers, he left the bedroom. His beloved had been in the kitchen for half an hour already.

A delicious and savory scent wafted in the air, coming from the kitchen. The smell was enough to put a content smile on his lips as he quietly followed the scent trail.

When Ruediger headed to the kitchen, Lariette was stirring the oatmeal simmering on the stove. Her long hair was bundled into a high, messy bun.

The savory aroma of sesame oil and broth lingered in the air, mingled with the faint scent of sauteed garlic, mushrooms and spinach.

Lariette reached for a porcelain bowl with a blue floral rim and then ladled the warm oatmeal carefully inside. She grinned upon smelling the flavorful aroma.

She arranged the sauteed mushrooms and spinach on one side, and gently set the peeled soft-boiled egg in the center, trying to present the oatmeal to be visually appealing.

Ruediger appeared when Lariette gave the egg a dash of soy sauce. Hearing his footsteps, she lifted her gaze as one hand reached for the small saucer of toasted sesame seeds.

"Eddy. Perfect timing."

Her smile lit up, pleased to see him look better after the bath. His hair was still damp from the shower and slightly tousled, his skin flushed from the heat of the water.

Ruediger's eyes softened as they met Lariette's sparkling one. He stepped closer, the gentle expression on his face melting further into something warmer.

"Savory oatmeal, huh?" he chuckled, "Perfect for a welcome home meal. Or should I say, early breakfast?"

"Hehe, both are valid. It's already four," she smiled, tossing the sesame seeds in the center of the bowl.

Ruediger was quiet, taking in how lovely his beloved was at this moment. Unable to resist himself, he leaned in and kissed her temple, slightly startling Lariette.

"Hey! Sit down now. I'll get you some drink," she laughed, her neck ticklish when he moved his lips there.

He grinned, both hands gently squeezing her shoulders, "I'll get it. Sit, Lettie. Let's share the oatmeal, okay?"

"Alright."

Lariette quickly agreed, not intending to refuse Ruediger. She watched him heading to the water dispenser machine with two mugs. Then, they sat at the kitchen island, side by side.

"Eddy, eat," Lariette handed a spoon to Ruediger, her voice soft, "And make sure you sleep until the afternoon, okay?"

"What's that? Do you think I'm like Maddie?" he scoffed, earning her playful laughter.

Ruediger picked up the spoon, breaking the egg with care. The glistening golden yolk oozed into the oats, forming a creamy ribbon.

"This is good," he murmured after the first bite, his gaze gentle on her.

Lariette rested her chin on her palm, watching Ruediger with evident fondness in her eyes. Her lips curled up, cheeks pinkening slightly.

He took another bite, slower this time as he savored the taste and the moment itself. The kitchen was quiet, but the silence was full of warmth and care.

He was truly home.

"Lettie, have some."

He scooped some oatmeal and blew the steaming hot air, and then brought the spoon to her lips. She smiled and ate the creamy porridge.

They continued eating in silence. Lariette's eyes were slightly droopy by the time Ruediger was done with his meal. She smiled happily at the sight of the empty bowl.

"Bedtime~" she hummed and then chuckled, "Seems like the usually early riser will sleep in this morning."

He shot her a meaningful look as he washed the bowl. Laughing in helplessness, he couldn't deny that. Considering how late the time was and how exhausted he was, he might wake up at noon.

The pair returned to his bedroom, their steps quiet in the hallway.

Ruediger didn't immediately lie flat on the mattress, wanting his stomach to feel comfier before doing so. As he reclined against the pillows, Lariette nestled on him.

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"I thought I'd surprise you with something special before you're back," she said, laughter lacing her voice, "You surprised me first instead."

He grinned, "What kind of surprise? A lovely home-cooked food on the table and you in a daring red dress?"

"Well~ Maybe? But you've lost the chance!"

"Hahaha! Why?"

Upon hearing her cheeky reply, he burst out laughing. He gazed at her, delighted at the sight of her beaming look.

Then, a question came.

"Lettie, are you free this Monday? For dinner outside?"

Lariette blinked, "Tomorrow? I think I can get home at four. Are we having a candlelight dinner?"

"You can say so," Ruediger smiled, his eyes hiding something, "I'll arrange everything. You just need to come. Let's have a great time together, en?"

"Okay~"

Lariette grinned, her mind imagining lovely moments with Ruediger. Knowing how romantic he was at heart, she knew they would have a great time.

Little did she expect another secret of his would come to light on that day.