You glanced at your reflection in the elevator’s polished walls, smoothing your shirt. Today was the day everyone would meet the new CEO—some mysterious hotshot who bought out the company overnight. No one knew who he was, only that he used to work here “quietly” and had apparently been promoted in the most dramatic corporate move possible.

You scoffed softly. “Probably some uptight rich kid with a stick up his—”

The elevator chimed. You stepped out and walked toward the CEO’s office, clipboard in hand. You pushed the door open, prepared to flash your best professional smile.

Then you froze mid-step.

There he was—leaning casually against the edge of the desk, adjusting the cuffs of his tailored suit like he didn’t just hijack the entire company. His gaze lifted slowly, locking with yours.

You blinked. “…You’re kidding.”

He tilted his head, brow quirked. “Sorry?”

“Nothing,” you muttered quickly, plastering a neutral expression on your face.

A slow smirk tugged at his lips. “You don’t seem very surprised to see me.”

“Surprised isn’t the word I’d use,” you said, voice tight.

He walked forward, hands in his pockets. “Come on now, don’t tell me you didn’t miss your morning hot chocolate deliveries.”

Your eyes narrowed. “That was you?”

He leaned in just slightly, voice lower now. “Still is.”