As you rolled over in bed, something stuck to your sleeve. You peeled it off, both confused by the absence of your boyfriend and curious about the post-it note you now held in your hands. The handwriting looked tired and messy, but you smiled at the familiar heart and name signed at the bottom.

I’m sorry I had to leave early. I didn’t want to wake you. It turns out we have a schedule today after all. I guess we’ll have to postpone our plans for tomorrow. If you want you can stop by at lunch. I love you!

You sighed heavily, sticking the note to your bedside table. Your boyfriend was supposed to have the day off, the two of you having made plans for lunch and a visit to your favorite boardwalk. Heaving yourself out of bed, you allowed one more exhale of disappointment escape your lips. It wasn’t his fault, schedules were important. As you ambled into the kitchen, an idea wandered through your thoughts. The boys had been working hard lately, and they would likely enjoy a homemade lunch to have.

You chopped the crisp vegetables rapidly, tossing them into a searing pan of oil and salt. They hissed loudly upon contact, the onions and peppers offering a savory smell that made your mouth water. You added thin strips of fresh chicken and steak, shaking the pan to mix the sizzling meats. As it cooked, you scooped fluffy rice carefully into containers and patting it flat with the back of your spoon. When the food finished cooking, you packed the rest into boxes and loaded them into a grocery bag.

“Perfect.” You made sure to lock the door, waving goodbye to your neighbor who was taking out his garbage.

“I smell food!” The boys swarmed around you the moment you walked into their practice room. You handed them the bag and passed the containers around, earning grateful smiles from each of them. Their manager smiled, thanking you as enthusiastically as the boys when you offered him a portion of the lunch.

They sat in a circle, laughing and shoving each other as they ate. Your boyfriend sat next to you, his free hand placed gently over yours.

“Your girlfriend is the best,” one of s said, his mouth full of steaming food.

“Yeah, it’s not fair.” Your boyfriend stuck out his tongue at the other boys, laughing as he ate.

After they finished, he helped you return the boxes carefully to the cotton bag. He lingered next to you a moment, not ready to return to his practice.

“I’m really sorry I had to leave for a schedule today.” You shook your head, placing a reassuring hand to his arm.

“It’s really okay. I completely understand.” He smiled softly.

“It was so nice of you to bring lunch. I hope it wasn’t too much work.” You grinned, shaking your head again.

“It didn’t take too long. I’m glad you guys liked it.” He smiled, kissing you lightly while the others were distracted.

“They adore you.” You smiled. He touched a hand to your cheek. “And I do too.”