Office Wars: Love Under Fire

Evelyn sat at her desk, her fingers tapping lightly against the surface as she tried to focus on the spreadsheet in front of her. Her heart was still racing from the client meeting, though she'd never admit it aloud. The way Lucas had watched her—scrutinizing, challenging, and yet somehow… approving—left a strange, unwelcome flutter in her chest.

It wasn't admiration. No, it was more like frustration with a hint of intrigue.

The sound of her email notification snapped her out of her thoughts. She opened the message to find one line, sharp and to the point:

Meet me in my office. Now. – Lucas

Her stomach twisted in a way she couldn't explain, but she grabbed her notepad and headed for the frosted glass doors.

Lucas's Office

Lucas stood near the window, his back to her as she walked in. The skyline framed him like a portrait—tall, composed, and maddeningly unreadable.

You wanted to see me? Evelyn asked, forcing her voice to remain steady.

He turned, his eyes scanning her with a quiet intensity that always made her feel both scrutinized and… seen. His lips curved into a small smirk, one that was infuriatingly self-assured.

You handled the client meeting well, he said, his tone calm. Better than I expected.

Evelyn raised a brow. Why does that sound more like an insult than a compliment?

Lucas leaned against the edge of his desk, crossing his arms. "Because you're not used to praise from me yet."

"Yet?" she repeated, her tone laced with disbelief.

His smirk deepened, and Evelyn found herself simultaneously annoyed and intrigued. "Don't get too comfortable, Carter. This isn't me going easy on you. The pitch worked, but we're not out of the woods yet. The client wants revisions—bold ones.

She let out a breath, leaning against the back of the chair across from him. "Of course, they do."

"You think this is tough?" he asked, amusement flickering in his voice. "Welcome to Grey Enterprises. If you wanted an easy ride, you're in the wrong place.

Evelyn narrowed her eyes. "I don't recall asking for easy. In fact, I don't recall asking for your commentary, either."

Lucas chuckled softly, and the sound caught her off guard. You've got a sharp tongue, Carter. Careful where you aim it.

She tilted her head, meeting his gaze without flinching. Careful who you provoke, Grey.

For a moment, the air between them thickened, the playful banter giving way to a charged silence. Lucas's smirk faded, replaced by something heavier—something that made Evelyn's breath catch.

You're bold, I'll give you that, he said, his voice lower now.

" And you're impossible, she shot back, though her tone lacked the heat she'd intended.

Later That Day – In the Break Room

Evelyn leaned against the counter, waiting for the coffee machine to finish its cycle. She had just started to relax when she heard his voice behind her.

Second cup already? Long day?

She turned to find Lucas standing there, his jacket off and his shirt sleeves rolled up. He looked almost casual—if it weren't for the ever-present smirk playing on his lips.

I didn't realize the CEO made rounds in the break room, she said, crossing her arms.

He shrugged, stepping closer. "I go where I'm needed. And judging by the way you slammed your notebook down earlier, I figured you might need a moment to cool off.

Evelyn shot him a look, I'm fine.

You sure about that? he asked, his smirk widening.

"Why do you do that?" she asked, exasperated.

Do what?

Smirk, she said, gesturing toward his face. "Like you know something no one else does."

His brow lifted slightly, but the smirk didn't waver, Maybe I do.

She rolled her eyes and turned back to the coffee machine. You're insufferable.

And yet, here you are, he said, leaning casually against the counter beside her.

Evelyn's fingers tightened around her coffee cup as she fought to ignore the way his presence seemed to fill the room. He was too close, too calm, and far too confident.

You don't intimidate me, you know, she said finally, looking up at him.

Good, he replied smoothly, Intimidation isn't my goal.

Then what is it?

Lucas tilted his head, his eyes locking onto hers with a look that made her stomach flip I'll let you figure that out.