For several weeks, there had been an inexplicable occurrence at the workplace.
Every day, without fail, a new gift appeared on my desk—each more personal than the last. Initially, it was just a few small mementos: a book I had mentioned liking in passing, a coffee mug with a quote I had once shared.
But as the days went on, the gifts grew more elaborate, each accompanied by a cryptic note: “your smile brightens my days.” “i hope this makes you smile.” the mystery deepened with every new delivery, and with it, the unease in my chest.
I was unaware of who was observing me, but I couldn’t shake the sensation that I was being watched, scrutinized, and potentially influenced. The only certainty I had was that the man who had always appeared as my most trusted ally, Robert, was now the focal point of my suspicion. Is it possible that he is the mastermind behind all of this? Or was there something more sinister lurking beneath the surface?
A massive arrangement of flowers adorned my desk, vibrant and overpowering, accompanied by a note. My heart pounded with anticipation as I unfolded the card, hoping for a name, but it only contained the words, ‘your smile brings joy to my days.’.
‘Did anyone see who left this note?’ I asked, holding up the paper
Robert, who was sitting across from me, glanced up from his computer. ‘No, I was the first one to arrive this morning.’ It was already here when I got in. His friendly smile instantly put me at ease.
Robert was my preferred colleague. He consistently displayed thoughtfulness, unwavering support, and was always there for me whenever I required assistance.
‘Wow,’ Brian exclaimed from across the room
Brian was the coworker I disliked the most. He had a talent for being irritating and always seized an opportunity to make sarcastic remarks.
I grinned, moved the flowers out of the way, and concentrated on my computer. Work demanded my attention, and I had to remain focused. The truth was, Robert, Brian, and I were all working on different projects for the company, and only one of us would secure the funding.
As one of the few women in the company, I had worked hard to get where I was.
Then, the presents started coming. Every day brought a new surprise from my enigmatic admirer.
I wasn’t the type to get caught up in the concept of an unknown admirer. I was more doubtful, scrutinizing every little detail. What is this person’s motive for knowing so much about me?
There was someone observing, someone who had a deep understanding of my daily habits and passions. Rather than feeling flattered, I felt uneasy.
I wanted the entire thing to be finished. The presentation was set for February 14th—how ironic.
I let out a sigh and grabbed my empty paper cup. ‘I really need to buy a water bottle.’ I’m exhausted of sprinting to the fridge, I grumbled.
The following morning, I arrived at work to find a shiny new water bottle placed on my desk.
Attached was another note.’so you don’t have to keep running to the cooler.’.
I was paralyzed with fear.
‘Nice bottle,’ Robert commented, pointing to it
I nodded, but my thoughts were racing. There was an inexplicable sense of unease. And then it hit me—robert. Robert was my clandestine admirer.
I had the urge to address him, to have a direct conversation, but the upcoming presentation held greater significance.
On February 14th, we finally gave our presentations. The conference room was filled with tension, and the atmosphere was heavy with stress.
Robert’s project was addressed first, followed by Brian’s. Executives engaged in discussions and expressed their opinions, but no one acknowledged mine.
To my surprise, Brian spoke up. ‘It’s obvious that Leslie’s project is the best.’.
I struggled to keep my jaw from falling open. Brian, who was the least likely to do so, was defending me?.
‘I don’t think so,’ Robert interjected. ‘I still believe mine is the best, or at least Brian’s.’ ‘Male architects are more competent than female architects.’
It felt like a punch to the face. Robert—who I believed was supportive—had just said that?.
After a brief pause, one of the executives glanced at my project. He quickly scanned the pages, then nodded slowly. ‘actually, I think Brian’s right.’ “Leslie’s project is the most impressive.”
An hour after, we exited the meeting room. I had emerged victorious.
‘I know you’re my secret admirer,’ I said to Robert, crossing my arms
Conclusion:
As the days went by after the presentation, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I had stumbled upon something much more profound than a typical office rivalry. Robert, the former colleague whom I once considered a friend, had been the one responsible for the enigmatic gifts, his actions now leaving me with more uncertainties than resolutions.
His demeanor, which had previously been friendly and encouraging, concealed a darker and more unsettling truth. Yet, as I stood there, facing him with the truth, I realized that my own strength had developed throughout this ordeal. It wasn’t just the project I had won—it was my ability to see beyond the surface, to stand up for myself, and to trust my instincts.
Although I emerged victorious in the meeting room, the true triumph was in regaining my inner tranquility and self-worth. I no longer required the validation of someone who had previously underestimated me. I was no longer just the employee in the office—they were now the ones who had to deal with the repercussions of their actions.
And as for Robert? The truth always prevails in the end.