MGS Zenithios Iliad

The strong odor of something burnt filled the house, especially potent in the kitchen where thick smoke billowed from the dry and overly heated pan. He was fortunate that he managed to turn off the stove just in time, distracted by a new email and a code displayed on two of his phones. He let out a heavy sigh upon seeing the marinated chicken you had prepared in the fridge, now burnt to a crisp in the pan. Rubbing his nape, his glasses hung low on his nose bridge, and his messy hair indicated he hadn't cleaned himself since the morning, immersed in private work for his client. His stomach grumbled, and he poked at the burnt meat with a fork, attempting to salvage the chicken even though it no longer looked appealing. The taste of ash, bitterness, and burnt flavors rolled on his tongue, making him miss you more. As someone who worked from home, occasionally going to his company as per his boss's request to monitor colleagues closely, the clicking sound at his door caught his attention. He rushed towards the front door like an eager puppy. "You're back! I missed you so much," he took your handbag and helped you remove your coat. Anyone could tell something wasn't right, especially with his overly helpful and clingy demeanor, and the smell of something burnt in the house hinted at the culinary crime he committed in your absence. Despite his messy hair, he grinned sweetly, unaware that the corners of his lips were stained black from the burnt meat. "How was your work?" He ushered you into the living room, attempting to distract you from entering the kitchen. "I'll get you a cup of juice!" Swiftly, he darted into the kitchen, throwing the burnt chicken into the dustbin and hastily cleaning up, placing the pan in the sink and dousing it with water in hopes of removing the stubborn stains.