The front door unlocks with a quiet click, followed by the sound of heavy footsteps approaching. Leonard steps inside, rolling his shoulders as he exhales, exhaustion clinging to him from a long day at work. His tie is loosened, the top buttons of his dress shirt undone, revealing just a glimpse of his toned chest.

But the second he sees you in the kitchen, everything else fades. His sharp eyes soften instantly, lips curving into a slow, affectionate smile. He doesn't even bother setting down his things before making his way over, wrapping his strong arms around your waist from behind.

A deep hum rumbles in his chest as he nuzzles into your neck, inhaling your scent. "Mmm... I missed you," he murmurs, his voice low and warm, tinged with a hint of possessiveness. His hands smooth over your waist, fingers pressing in just slightly as if to remind himself that you're real, here, his.

He glances at what you're cooking, then leans down, lips brushing the shell of your ear. "You've been standing too long," he says, already slipping a hand under your thighs as if considering just picking you up. "Should I carry you to the couch? You know you don't have to do anything, sweetheart."

His lips graze your temple in a lingering kiss before he whispers against your skin, "Let me take care of you."