OneShots♡ (Bradga)

Dinner

Stefani's alarm jolted her awake at 5 a.m., its insistent ring piercing the quiet morning. She groaned, rubbing the sleep from her eyes, and reluctantly rolled out of bed. Today was another grueling day of dance rehearsals, just a few precious days before her big performance. Every movement needed to be flawless, every step perfect. She knew the demands she placed on herself were high, but her passion for dance left her no other choice.
As she dressed, Stefani glanced at Bradley, still sleeping soundly beside her. A soft smile touched her lips as she leaned over to plant a gentle kiss on his cheek. She left a note on the kitchen table before slipping out the door, her mind already focused on the choreography she needed to master.
Bradley stirred a few hours later, reaching out instinctively for the warmth of Stefani's body. Finding only cold sheets, he sighed and turned over, burying his face in her pillow. It still carried her scent, a comforting blend of vanilla and something uniquely her- home. After lying there for a few more minutes, he dragged himself out of bed and began his morning routine. As he brushed his teeth, he caught sight of a faint lipstick mark on his cheek in the mirror and chuckled. She always left little traces of her love behind.
Just before leaving for work, he found Stefani's note on the kitchen table. Smiling, he folded it carefully and tucked it into his wallet, grabbing a mask from the drawer before heading out the door.

"I can hardly wait to lie in your arms again, later! Have a wonderful day at work. The masks are in the drawer, take care! I love you! Kiss! ♡ Your Stef"

__________________

The day stretched endlessly for Stefani, filled with back-to-back rehearsals and last-minute adjustments. The studio buzzed with the energy of dancers and choreographers, all intent on perfecting the performance. By the time she finally headed home, every muscle in her body ached. She was exhausted but also filled with a quiet satisfaction. The dance was coming together beautifully.
Knowing Bradley had a night shoot and wouldn't be home until late, Stefani decided to surprise him with a home-cooked meal. She wanted to do something special for him, a way to unwind together after their long, separate days. She settled on pasta, a simple dish that carried memories of their shared love for Italian cuisine. Lighting a few candles and putting on some soft jazz, she set about preparing the meal, letting the soothing rhythm of the music ease her tired mind.
As he walked through the front door, the rich aroma of garlic and tomatoes greeted him, making his stomach rumble. He paused, soaking in the warm, inviting atmosphere. The glow of candlelight flickered through the house, and the soft strains of jazz filled the air. Stefani was at the stove, her hips swaying gently to the music, completely absorbed in her cooking.
Without a word, Bradley crept into the kitchen. The connection between them was palpable, an unspoken bond that had grown stronger over the years. Stefani smiled as she sensed his presence, turning slightly to greet him.

I missed you, B.

Bradley stepped behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist. He nuzzled her neck, inhaling her familiar scent.

And I've missed you. I love you, my sweetheart.

Stefani set the pot aside and turned in his embrace, their eyes locking in a moment of perfect understanding. He lifted a hand to her cheek, brushing away a stray strand of hair.

Sorry, they didn’t let me keep your lipstick on my cheek.

Aw, B, it's alri- Oh.

Bradley revealed a bouquet of white roses, holding them out to her along with a small box.

What’s this?

I stopped by your favorite Italian restaurant.

Her eyes lit up as she opened the box to find her favorite dessert.

Oh my God , B! Is that tiramisu?! Thank you!

They both laughed as she reached up to kiss him, their lips meeting in a tender, lingering embrace. They put the gifts aside and held each other close, savoring the simple joy of being together. Stefani wrapped her arms around Bradley's neck, and he pulled her tighter against him, his hands resting on her hips.

You are my angel.

And you are mine. Thank you for thinking of me.

I should be thanking you for cooking after such a long day.

Oh, B, speaking of cooking- I put a little rosé in the sauce. I hope that's okay?

Of course. Told you a couple times already, that I don't have a problem with that. I bet it tastes delicious, my little chef.

They sat down at the cozy dining table, the flickering candlelight casting warm shadows around them. The pasta was delicious, the sauce, the whole atmosphere. As they ate, Stefani admired the roses in a vase, their delicate petals glowing in the soft light. The room was filled with the comforting sounds of clinking forks and quiet conversation, a haven from the outside world.

You're done with the choreography?

Just missing some details. Tomorrow won't be so long.

Good, cause I wanna spend some time with you.

After dinner, Stefani started cleaning up while Bradley made a quick phone call. As she tidied the kitchen, she noticed his wallet lying open on the counter. Curious, she picked it up and found a collection of notes and photos tucked inside. Among them was the note she had written this morning, along with pictures of the two of them and a photo of Bradley's daughter, Lea. Her eyes welled up with tears at the sight, her heart swelling with love.
Bradley walked back into the kitchen, catching sight of her holding the wallet and the notes.

You kept them?

All of them, Stef! They mean the world to me.

I love you!

I love you too.

Stefani nodded, unable to speak. He crossed the room and enveloped her in his arms, resting his chin on her head. They stood there, holding each other, the weight of their shared history and future pressing gently against their hearts.

I could never throw it away.

You're so cute!

A little yawn escaped her, feeling so comfortable in his arms.

Wanna go to bed?

Sounds good.

She leaned her head back to get a proper look at him.

When do you have to be on set tomorrow?

Later. Which means we can sleep in.

She smiled, nodding.

That sounds like a plan.

They headed to the bathroom to get ready for bed, Bradley taking a quick shower while Stefani applied lotion. When he came out, toweling off his hair, he pulled her into his arms again, lifting her off her feet and carrying her to the bedroom. She giggled, wrapping her hands around his arms to hold on, while her back pressed against his chest.
They climbed into bed, snuggling under the warm covers. Stefani rested her head on Bradley's chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart.

This is the highlight of my day.

This morning, when I got up, I was already looking forward to lying here with you again.

Bradley kissed her forehead, his fingers tracing light, soothing patterns on her back.

I’m so glad I have you. Goodnight, B!

Goodnight love. Sweet dreams.

As they drifted off to sleep, wrapped in each other’s arms, the world outside faded away. In their small, candlelit haven, they found peace and contentment, knowing that no matter how long or hard the days might be, they would always have each other to come home to.