A/N: Written for Valentines Day 2024.

Also, I'm still not getting any email notifications, but I do try to respond to your messages as I can.

"That was fun," Kensi said, glancing at Rosa briefly as she turned onto Roberta's street.

"Yes, thank you for coming with me." Rosa held up her hand, examining her fingernails, currently adorned with a pink and white striped design. "I feel very fancy."

"Good. I'm glad you enjoyed your first manicure." She parked in front of Roberta's house, which was completely lit from inside. "I can't remember the last time I got one. Maybe our wedding."

"Well, now you're all ready for Valentine's Day," Rosa told her cheerfully.

Kensi snorted. "Yeah, Deeks and I have never had the best luck when it comes to celebrating holidays. Caleb and Sophia won't exactly increase the romance." She held up a finger, even though Rosa hadn't looked ready to object. "Not that I would change anything."

"I'm sure you'll find a way to enjoy the evening." Smiling, Rosa opened the passenger door. "Oh, Roberta asked me to help her move some boxes, so I might not be home before Steven picks me up."

"Ok, well have fun, be safe, and tell Steven we say hi. Call if you need anything," Kensi said, leaning over to give Rosa a hug.

"I will."

Out of habit, Kensi waited until Rosa was actually inside before pulling out of the driveway. It took approximately a minute to drive to their house, which was about 20 seconds longer than Roberta on foot thanks to her various shortcuts.

She came in through the back door, and the first thing she registered was the relative quiet. The second was the scent of rich spices permeating the air.

"Deeks," Kensi called out, slowly walking from the kitchen into the dining room. She stilled just inside the entrance, her mouth dropping open slightly as she took in the candle lit room, table set with their finest dishes, Deeks standing to the side. "Deeks," she repeated more softly.

"Surprise," he said, crossing over to her. He took her hands, gently drawing her towards the table.

"What is all this?" It was fairly obvious, but Kensi felt vaguely stupid right now. She'd anticipated walking in to the twins needing something, not a romantic dinner.

"Your Valentine's present."

"I thought the spa session was my present," Kensi said, narrowing her eyes as a suspicion began to build.

"The manicure was just a ploy to get you out of the house for a couple hours," Deeks explained. "Rosa was extremely happy and eager to assist."

Kensi recalled Rosa checking her phone periodically throughout their nail appointment. She'd assumed she was testing Steven, or a friend, but she'd likely been giving Deeks updates.

"Rosa's interference aside, how did you have time to decorate and cook a meal in two and a half hours?"

"Well, mom watched the oven a couple of times when the twins needed something."

"Baby, this is amazing. I can't believe you planned all this for me," Kensi murmured, wrapping her arms around him, and laying her cheek on his chest. She stayed there for a few moments, then tipped her head back to kiss him.

"I figured we deserved to celebrate for once. Especially with how crazy the last year has been," he said. Squeezing her tightly for a few seconds, he slid his hands down to hers, guiding her to the table.

He lifted the lid off Kensi's plate with a flourish. "For my lady bird, we have authentic carnitas—or as close as I could get it with Rosa's help—with a side of refried beans, and as much guacamole as your heart desires," Deeks declared, gesturing to the large plate.

Kensi's mouth watered as she stared at the perfect looking tacos. She licked her bottom lip, considering the food, then Deeks for a moment. He was wearing her favorite shirt and pants; the ones that seemed to drive all sane thought from her head.

"Where are Caleb and Sophia?" she asked, dropping her voice as though they might hear her.

"Sleeping. I got them down about 20 minutes ago."

"Good." She took his hand, dragging him away from the table.

"Woah, Kens, don't you want to eat?" he asked, sounding completely confused. She paused, turning to face him.

"I do. It looks absolutely phenomenal baby, but Rosa is out for the next few hours, the twins are sleeping, and…I'd like to take advantage of this unforeseen opportunity." She dropped her eyes to travel down Deeks' body, straightening his collar.

He fixed her with one eye, his mouth opened in an incredulous laugh. "Kensi, you're not…are you sure that's a good idea this soon?"

Sighing, Kensi pressed her forehead against his cheek. It just made her want him even more. "Ok, maybe we shouldn't have sex just yet, but I'm sure we can find something fun to do. Unless you don't want to."

Deeks chuckled, shaking his head to deny the suggestion. Pulling her closer, he cradled her cheeks, kissing her deeply enough that Kensi's entire body felt like it might combust. "The food can wait," he decided, when he pulled away.