Under the Mistletoe

Surprise

The next day, I was filled with nerves as I approached the towering eight-story building of Digital Solutions. Its sleek glass exterior gleamed in the sunlight, reflecting the bustling city around it. Inside, the lobby was luxurious, adorned with polished marble floors and contemporary art pieces that exuded sophistication.

As I settled into one of the plush leather chairs in the waiting area, I noticed three other women who looked like they had just stepped out of a fashion magazine. They were stunning—tall and perfectly styled, with tight dresses that showcased ample cleavage. I felt slightly underdressed in my knee-length black skirt and crisp white button-up blouse, but I pushed the thought aside.

The women were engaged in conversation, and their disdainful glances toward me made my stomach twist. “Can you believe the nerve of them?” One sneered, adjusting her hair as she eyed me. “I thought this was a professional setting.”

Another chimed in, giggling, “Right? Look at her. She looks like she’s ready for a school presentation, not an interview.”

I felt heat rise in my cheeks but forced myself to breathe deeply. Their judgment stung, but I refused to let it shake my confidence. As I listened, I thought I wouldn’t stand a chance against such polished competition.

After a few minutes of superficial chatter, the receptionist called for the first candidate. The women stood up in unison, tossing their hair over their shoulders as they strutted toward the interview room, confidence radiating from them. I could hear their laughter echoing down the hallway as they exited, and a knot of dread tightened in my stomach.

Finally, it was my turn. The receptionist motioned for me to enter, and I pushed through the sleek glass door into the office. The space was expansive, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a breathtaking view of the city skyline. In the centre sat Mason, the CEO—a handsome man in a tailored suit that emphasized his athletic build, with stylish blonde hair and piercing blue eyes.

“May, right?” he said, flashing a warm smile as I stepped inside. “It’s great to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you too,” I replied, trying to steady my nerves as I settled into the chair across from him.

Mason leaned forward, clearly intrigued. “So May,” he began, his voice smooth as silk, “how do you prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment? Must be quite a challenge, especially when the stakes are high.” His intense gaze seemed to pierce through me, and I felt the heat rise to my cheeks.

“I focus on deadlines and impact,” I replied, trying to keep my tone steady and professional. “I use digital tools and team input to ensure everything runs smoothly. It’s about being organized and proactive.”

He tilted his head, that playful smirk still on his lips. “Sounds efficient. But tell me, how do you handle the pressure when everything is on fire? Must be quite thrilling.” He reached over and brushed his fingers lightly against my hand, sending a jolt of discomfort through me. “I can only imagine how you must feel—so capable, so in control.”

Pulling my hand back, I felt my cheeks flush even more. “I’ve worked hard to get my bachelor’s, graduating at the top of my class with honours,” I stated firmly, trying to refocus the conversation. “I thrive under pressure.”

Mason chuckled, his tone teasing. “I admire a woman with ambition. But what about team conflicts? How do you navigate those tricky waters?” He leaned closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “I imagine you’d do anything to keep the peace—perhaps even charm your way through it.”

My heart raced at his words, and I fought to maintain my professionalism. What were these questions? “I believe in open communication and finding common ground,” I responded, my voice steady despite the heat I felt. “It’s important to put the team’s goals first.”

“Very noble,” he said, his voice laced with flirtation. “But tell me, where do you see yourself in five years? A powerful position, perhaps? Maybe even sharing a corner office with someone who appreciates your talents?” He goes to stroke my hand again, but I move, and I a wave of discomfort wash over me.

I quickly tuck my hand in my lap. “I see myself continuing to grow in my career, taking on more responsibilities and leading projects,” I stated firmly, trying to hold his gaze. “But I believe in doing it on merit.”

The feeling of discomfort grew as Mason leaned back in his chair, a smug satisfaction evident in his demeanour. What was this interview turning into? Was he looking for some piece of meat on the side? His smile widened, clearly enjoying my flustered reaction.

“Merit is attractive, but so is ambition—and you have both. It’s a rare combination,” he said, his gaze daring. “Are you sure you wouldn’t want to consider a more… personal partnership?”

A shiver ran down my spine, and I felt a mix of anger and unease. “Thank you for the offer, but I think I’ll take my leave now.” I stood up, ready to make a quick exit when Mason’s charming smile suddenly dropped, replaced by a serious expression.

“Wait, May. I’m sorry for how I’ve been behaving. The job is yours. You start Monday. You have the next two days to prepare yourself. Emma, the receptionist, will give you some paperwork to go over. Bring it with you on Monday.” He scratched the back of his neck, looking a bit sheepish. “That behaviour was just to see if you were here for the job or if you were just trying to get to me.”

I stood there, a whirlwind of emotions crashing over me—happiness, relief, confusion. “Um, thank you, sir?” I whispered, still processing what had just happened.

He let out a loud, gruff laugh before standing and offering his hand. “I know it might have been a bit much, but our company is taking off. We’ve just closed a billion-dollar merger deal. I know it’s been in the papers. Can’t be too careful when it comes to these things.”

I gave a small, strained smile, still trying to wrap my head around his earlier flirtation. “Thank you, sir,” I said softly, feeling a mix of relief and lingering discomfort.

The remainder of the day was spent with Emma, who welcomed me with enthusiasm. She gave me a tour of the office, showing me my desk, the lunchroom, the restrooms, and a box filled with papers to start going through to catch up. She quickly introduced me to the computer programs I would be using and how to access the calendar and book appointments.

By the end of the night, I was exhausted but excited. My life was beginning to come together on my own terms, and the possibilities felt endless. Despite my unease with Mason, I was determined to make something of myself.

The next few days were a blur of paperwork and getting accustomed to the rhythm of working at Digital Solutions. I dove headfirst into my new role, eager to learn everything I could. Emma was a fantastic guide, patiently showing me the ins and outs of the office.

Mason was kind and professional, and his demeanour reassured me that the interview had indeed been a test. He later confided in me that the other three contenders had only flirted with him, asking for his number and making the whole process feel more like a dating game than a job interview. I felt a sense of pride at his admission; it wasn’t just my qualifications that had earned me this position but also my refusal to play along with his earlier games.

“I’m really thankful you applied, May,” he said one afternoon as we reviewed some project details together. “You’ve adapted so quickly, and it’s refreshing to have someone here who’s focused on the work rather than trying to catch my attention.”

The next few weeks flew by in a blur of paperwork and acclimating to the rhythm of working at Digital Solutions. I dove headfirst into my new role, eager to absorb everything I could. Emma was a fantastic guide, patiently showing me the ins and outs of the office. After my first decent paycheck, Rachel insisted I needed to update my wardrobe to better fit into my new workplace.

She took me shopping, helping me pick out some form-fitting white and light grey button-up tops, tailored black business pants, skirts, and leggings. I made an effort, putting on some light makeup and styling my hair. For the first time in a long while, I felt good in my own skin—beautiful, even.

Mason was kind and professional, and his demeanour reassured me that the interview had indeed been a test. As we worked together, we grew closer; he often made me laugh, and I found myself blushing at his humour. It was refreshing to have that dynamic, especially compared to my previous experiences.

One afternoon, as we reviewed some project details, Mason confided in me that the other three contenders had only flirted with him, asking for his number and making the whole process feel more like a dating game than a job interview. I felt a swell of pride at his admission; it wasn’t just my qualifications that had earned me this position but also my refusal to play along with his earlier games.

“I’m really thankful you applied, May,” he said, a genuine smile lighting up his face. “You’ve adapted so quickly, and it’s refreshing to have someone here who’s focused on the work rather than trying to catch my attention.”

My heart raced, and a blush crept onto my cheeks. I hadn’t been trying to catch Mason’s attention, but I often found myself staring at him when he was nearby. He naturally drew everyone’s eyes with his looks and the confidence radiating from him. “Um, thank you, Mason?” I replied, my voice uncertain but playful.

He smiled back at me, and for a moment, I lost myself in his striking blue eyes. They seemed to grow stormy, shifting to a deeper grey, and I pulled myself from my thoughts, glancing down at my desk before returning his smile. “You do have an appointment in a minute with Mr. Miles. I’ll get the coffee ready and bring it in shortly.”

Mason stood motionless for a moment, processing my words before nodding with a smile. “Excellent. Thank you. Please bring the files for the new building technology too.”

I nodded, already prepared. “Way ahead of you,” I sang, making him chuckle softly as I dashed to the break room to prepare the drinks for Mason and his guest.

Carrying a tray of coffee with the files tucked under my other arm, I entered Mason’s office. I focused on balancing the tray as I made a beeline for the side table, setting everything down carefully before grabbing the two cups to serve them. I didn’t pay much attention to our guests at first, too caught up in my task.

As I turned to face Mason, I finally noticed the man seated across from him. I barely held in my gasp at Ben’s form. There he was, looking effortlessly handsome in a tailored suit that accentuated his athletic build. His familiar, tousled hair fell perfectly over his forehead, and his piercing brown eyes met mine with an intensity that sent a jolt through me.

“May?” Mason’s voice broke through my moment of shock. “This is Mr. Miles, our consultant for the new building technology.”

My heart raced at the formal introduction. "Mr. Miles" felt so different from the casual interactions we’d had before. “Hello,” I managed to say, my voice steadier than I felt, but internally, I was a whirlwind of emotions. He had been lingering on my mind for the past few weeks, his number a heavy weight in my hand every night as I debated whether to reach out. Seeing him now, in this context, amplified all those feelings I had tried to push aside.

“Nice to see you again, May,” Ben replied, a hint of surprise lacing his tone. His gaze lingered on me for a moment longer than necessary, and I felt heat rise to my cheeks. The familiarity of his presence stirred something deep within me—a mix of excitement and anxiety.

Mason continued, “Ben is here to discuss the details of the project, and I thought it would be beneficial for you to sit in on the meeting.”

“Of course,” I said, trying to keep my composure as I set the coffee down in front of them. I could feel the weight of their gazes on me, and I focused on maintaining my professionalism despite the rush of feelings swirling in my mind.

As I stepped back, I caught Ben's eye again. His face remained blank, distant. But my heart still hammered away inside my chest.

“Thanks for the coffee, May,” Mason said, breaking the moment. “We’ll get started shortly.”

“Sure, no problem,” I replied, giving them both a nod before stepping back to the side of the room. I stood there, silently observing the two handsome men as they went over the business terms. They were both striking in their own way—Mason with his blonde hair and blue eyes, exuding a laid-back, surfer vibe, while Ben was tall, dark, and undeniably handsome, with deep brown eyes and a strong, athletic build.

I could feel my cheeks flushing as my gaze lingered on Ben. His arms were muscular, his broad chest filling out his suit jacket perfectly. A shiver ran down my spine, and I was startled when I realized my gaze had met his. He held my stare, his expression unreadable as he nodded along to whatever Mason was saying. My breath hitched when a small, almost imperceptible smirk appeared on his kissable lips, and I felt a rush of warmth spread across my face.

Flushing darker, I quickly turned away, pouring myself a cup of water to distract myself. It was then I noticed my hands were shaking slightly, the glass trembling as I filled it. What was happening to me?

I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself as I sipped the water, focusing on the coolness to calm my racing heart. But even as I tried to regain my composure, my mind kept drifting back to Ben.