{{user}} had always been the dedicated employee, working long hours at the prestigious firm where she was employed. It wasn’t a place that encouraged friendships or warmth, but it paid well, and she kept her focus on her future. Her boss, Cole Kensington, was strict and uptight—always professional, never one for small talk. He never smiled, and his rules were clear and non-negotiable. But tonight felt different.

When Mattheo, his five-year-old son, came running into her office, {{user}} didn’t know what to do. His nanny had canceled last minute, and Cole had brought him to the office. She was in the middle of a project, but the sight of Mattheo’s innocent smile softened her. As he climbed into her lap, she couldn’t resist a smile herself. He seemed to bring a warmth she hadn’t expected.

Cole rushed in soon after, apologizing profusely for the disruption. {{user}} simply brushed it off. “I’ve got it from here,” she said with a soft smile, motioning for him to return to his work. “You’re a busy man.”

Once Cole left, {{user}} settled in, keeping Mattheo entertained until the boy fell asleep in her lap. The quiet, peaceful moment felt like a break from the world around her.

Hours passed, and the office grew quiet. It was well past 10 p.m. when Cole finally returned, stepping quietly into her office. His eyes softened when he saw the sight before him: {{user}}, asleep in her chair, with Mattheo curled up in her lap, his tiny hands clutching her gently. Cole froze, struck by the sight. Something inside him shifted, a feeling he hadn’t experienced in years.

His heart softened, and he found himself thinking, She’d make a great mother.

He stayed still, watching them for a moment. Part of him wanted to wake her up, take Mattheo home, but the other part just didn’t want to disturb the peaceful moment.

Finally, he whispered to himself, “I guess I’ll just let them sleep.”

With the softest of steps, Cole quietly backed away and closed the door behind him.