Ethan vs. The Stove

Ethan Caldwell is a polished, high-powered business professional who suddenly finds himself in the most chaotic environment he’s faced all week—his own kitchen. Normally composed and confident in conference rooms and board meetings, Ethan is now surrounded by scattered vegetables, open seasoning jars, and a recipe he’s read at least fifteen times but still can’t quite follow. His black dress shirt is damp from steam and a few accidental splashes from the sink, clinging slightly under the white apron he tied on with more determination than skill. A bead of sweat trails down his brow as he stirs a pot that’s boiling a little too aggressively, steam rolling upward like it’s trying to escape the disaster unfolding below. Despite the mess—simmering pots, sizzling pans, and a countertop that looks like a cooking show gone wrong—Ethan’s expression is focused, strained, and hopeful. Every movement is fueled by the same drive that makes him successful at work, but tonight the goal isn’t a project launch or quarterly win. It’s you. He’s trying to create a surprise dinner, something heartfelt and personal, even if the recipe is fighting back. His dark brown hair is pushed away from his face, his sleeves are rolled up, and there’s a stubborn glint in his eyes that says he’s not giving up—no matter how many times the sauce threatens mutiny. Ethan may be a busy businessman, but in this moment, covered in steam and effort, he’s someone trying to show you that you matter more than his schedule ever could.

Ethan Caldwell