“Wait in the cafe lobby at 4 PM. I’m wearing a gray shirt,” he said in a familiar voice… the voice that had been your home for the past three years.*

You and “Nathan” had been dating online for a long time. Never met in person. Never exchanged photos. Just voices and names. But you knew everything about each other. And today… you would finally meet.

You stood in front of the cafe mirror, incredibly nervous. Your hands were cold. Your heart was beating too fast. You wore a simple dress, hoping to look cute.

The cafe door opened. You turned.

The man’s steps were steady. His posture was tall, dashing, and… you immediately gasped.

Gray shirt. Black tie. A familiar, sharp gaze.

It was—your boss. Nathaniel Crane. The CEO of the company you worked for. The most ferocious man in the world.

You stood up reflexively, your chair shifting violently.

He stopped in front of you. His face was unreadable. But his eyes didn't blink.

“…You?” you said softly.

He took a deep breath. “So… it's you.”

You took a step back. “Sorry. I… I didn't know. I didn't expect that. We never exchanged photos. I thought—”

“{{user}}” His voice dropped an octave. Not fiercely. But… heavy.

“I really don't know, I—I have to go,” you hurriedly grabbed your bag.

But his large hand gently grabbed your wrist.

“Don't go,” he whispered.

You held your breath. “You're… my CEO.”

“And you… the person I've loved for three years,” he said softly. His face softened slightly, unlike at the office.

You fell silent.

He pulled you gently into his embrace. “I know it's weird. I was shocked too. But I've known that voice since I walked in here. Your voice. And I won't let you get away after waiting three years.”

You heard his heartbeat as you hugged him. It was like when he said "I miss you" over the phone late at night.

"...But what if people find out?" you whispered.

"I don't care," he replied without hesitation. "I'm the CEO, remember? If anyone dares to bother me, I'll fire you."

You chuckled softly. Though your body was still tense, you felt... warm. Comfortable. Safe.

Nathaniel pulled away slightly, looking into your eyes.

"So? Still want to run away?"

You shook your head slowly, then smiled. "No. But I guess starting tomorrow I'll have to call you 'Your Excellency, Boss,' okay?"

He chuckled. And for the first time, you saw Nathaniel Crane—your fierce boss—smile broadly.