Mik had gone to work for a couple of hours, and when he walked into the house, he was surprised to see that it was empty of his family.
“Rowan, sweetie,” he called out. “What time is everyone supposed to get here?”
He didn’t get an answer but followed the scents and sounds to the kitchen, “Babe?”
“I’m in the dining room,” Rowan finally called out.
He opened the door the dining room—the main eating area and not the smaller, less formal one that was just off the kitchen—and found Rowan was there and the dining table was set for two.
The lights were dimmed and there were candles and flowers, and Rowan was standing there with two plates of food.
“Hey, babe,” Rowan’s lips curved, a satisfied smile on his face. “Surprise.”
Mikhail couldn’t help taking a deep breath and savouring this moment. Now he finally understood the knowing glances and shit-eating grins his brothers had been sending his way, especially when he’d asked if they should come down together, but Malek and Malachi said that they had a couple more things to wrap up. Apparently, his brothers had been in on it.
“I thought we were having a family thing,” Mikhail was quick to add as he went over to his mate and lowered his lips to Rowan’s for a kiss. When he lifted his head, he whispered, “Not that I’m complaining about the turn of events.”
He took the plates from Rowan and put them on the place settings before pulling a chair out for his mate.
Mikhail took his seat and then finally paid attention to what was on his plate.
“This looks amazing, babe.” Mik looked at his dish with the large ribeye steak and then glanced over at Rowan’s plate to find that his was much smaller. There were also perfectly mashed potatoes, asparagus, and a gravy boat on the table.
“It’s one of the few things I know I won’t mess up. I also make an awesome chicken and mushroom pie.”
Mikhail grinned. “Well, I’m sure it’s perfect, and I’m sure I’ll love your pie too.”
Mikhail picked up his fork and knife and cut into his steak. It was perfectly medium, and when he put it in his mouth and chewed, he couldn’t contain the moan that escaped. “Mmmm, this is delicious, babe.”
“I’m so glad you like it.” Rowan smiled at him.
“This mash is amazing, love,” Mik said, as he lifted another forkful to his lips. “You know you don’t have to cook for me, right?”
“I know.” Rowan covered his hand on the table with his. “If I had to, I probably wouldn’t.” he added, a cheeky gleam in his eye.
“Duly noted.” Mik chuckled. “So, apart from cooking this wonderful meal for us, tell me, how was your day?”
They both ate while Rowan caught Mik up on everything he’d done for the nursery that day. Mik took a sip of the white grape juice, and when he looked up at Rowan, it was to find his eyes on him. He smiled widely at his mate, and Rowan’s cheeks pinked. Mikhail returned to his meal, although, as usual, his mate had 99.9 per cent of his attention.
“The crib was delivered today.” Rowan looked excited.
“I know, babe, it came to the resort. I had them bring it over,” Mik said.
“I can’t wait for you to see the nursery. I think it’s all done,” Rowan added.
Mik loved how excited Rowan was and seeing him enjoying his pregnancy.
“Are you happy, love?” Mikhail couldn’t help asking.
Rowan got to his feet and walked over to Mik, who pushed his chair back so Ro could lower himself to Mikhail’s lap.
“I didn’t think I could be this happy.” Rowan leaned into Mik’s chest, and his arms went around his mate’s waist. “I know I probably didn’t make it easy,” Rowan spoke in a soft voice, “but thank you for never giving up on me.”
Mik’s heart melted at Rowan’s words. “Most people don’t get the chance to fall in love with their mate before they are mated. It may not be the way it’s done, but I get to know my mate has chosen me.”
Rowan leaned closer and laughed. “Only because you wouldn’t go away…” His voice was teasing, but he moved so they were face to face. “And I’m so happy you didn’t.”
“I’ll always be here, babe,” Mik said.
