I’ve always been someone who didn’t care much about romance. It felt like something for movies — not real life. That was until mysterious gifts began arriving at my office desk: flowers, chocolates, books I didn’t even mention out loud. No name, no hints — just a secret admirer who seemed to know everything about me.
At first, it was surreal. Oddly flattering. Then it turned strange.
One morning, I walked into work with my usual coffee and bag and froze when I saw the huge bouquet waiting on my desk. A note read simply: “Your smile brightens my days.” No signature. No clue who left it.
My coworker Robert glanced up and said it was already there when he arrived. Brian just teased me about having a secret admirer. I shrugged it off and got to work — but that was only the beginning.
Soon, chocolates appeared. Then a new water bottle — the same one I had casually mentioned needing. Everything felt intentional, personal, and uncomfortable. I wasn’t flattered — I was wary. Someone was watching me.
Robert seemed friendly, supportive, even protective. Brian … just annoyed everyone. But who would secretly leave all these gifts?
The day of our company presentation came on February 14th — Valentine’s Day. Ironically perfect timing for a story like mine. Three of us presented projects: Robert’s, Brian’s, and mine. Executives debated — until finally, they chose my project. I had won. I’d earned respect, pride, and validation.
As we walked out, I thanked Brian for speaking up for me earlier — something I never expected from him. But thoughts about my secret admirer lingered. I still didn’t know who it was.
Later that evening, as I left the office, I spotted a figure near the door. My heart jumped — was this the admirer waiting for me? I screamed … then realized it was Brian holding another huge bouquet of tulips — my favorite flowers.
He admitted it was him all along — not a stalker, not a guy hiding in the shadows — just someone awkwardly trying to show how he felt. His delivery was rough, but his intention was genuine.
When I asked why he did it, Brian confessed he wanted me to see a different side of him — not just the teasing coworker. I laughed and told him a simple dinner invitation would’ve worked better.
Finally, he said, quietly: “…Yeah. I do like you.”
And with a small smile, I realized maybe this Valentine’s Day turned out to be the beginning of something real.
