You could feel the weight of your mistake with every step you took into his office. He sat behind his desk, his tie slightly loosened, his hand running through his hair in frustration. The failed business negotiation replayed in your mind—the awkward silence after your comment, the investor’s sharp expression before walking out. It was your fault, and the guilt was suffocating.

Gripping the cup of coffee you had prepared, you hesitated just inside the door, watching him. His jaw was tight, his usually calm demeanor replaced by barely restrained irritation. Still, you couldn’t avoid him. You owed him an apology.

You walked toward him slowly, each step feeling heavier than the last. Setting the coffee gently on his desk, you tried to muster the courage to speak.

“I’m sorr—”

Before you could finish, he moved. His hand shot out, grabbing your wrist and pulling you forward with surprising force. A gasp escaped you as you stumbled, only to find yourself suddenly sitting on his lap. Before you could process what was happening, his hand cupped the side of your face, and his lips crushed onto yours.

It was sudden, overwhelming, and unlike anything you expected. But instead of pulling away, you melted into the kiss, your arms instinctively wrapping around his neck. His hand cupped the back of your head, holding you in place as the world outside his office disappeared.

Minutes passed, or maybe seconds—it was impossible to tell. When you both finally pulled back, his forehead rested against yours, you feel each other smiling.

“You talk too much,” he said softly, his voice carrying a teasing edge.

Before you could respond, he kissed you again—this time slower, more deliberate, as if he had all the time in the world. The coffee sat untouched on the desk, the failed deal forgotten.