Lily Collins was running down the sidewalk like she was in the Olympic hurdle finals, except the hurdles were her own legs, a broken purse strap, and a loose ballet flat that went flap flap with every step. Her phone kept buzzing, buried between a pack of mints and an uncapped lipstick. It was her friend Megan sending messages so desperate they felt like emergency evacuation alerts. “Lily, you have exactly 5 minutes to get here.
”
Lily tried to type back while running, but ended up sending something so unreadable that autocorrect changed it to “bringing cheddar and mashed potatoes. ” She gave up. Survive first, explain later. When the massive glass building of Smith Global Group came into view, Lily felt a tiny spark of hope.
Maybe, just maybe, she still had time. But the second she saw her reflection in the glass, that hope shattered. No, her eyes widened_. No, her dress zipper was in the front_.
The giant clothing tag_, big enough to be a restaurant receipt_, was sticking to her chest like an invitation card_, and the neckline_, which was supposed to be in the back_, was now strategically misplaced_. “How did I even–” She spun around trying to check her back in the reflection, almost causing a pedestrian accident with her improvised dance routine_. Trying to fix it right thenand there, she began a series of frantic movements worthy of a fashion reality show_. She tugged at the hem, twisted the strap, tried to rip off tags with her teeth, all while muttering nonsense_.
“I knew I should have worn jeans_. Who invented giant tags? They should be arrested_. I am a walking disaster_.
”
Meanwhile, on the top floor, Nicholas Smith_, known for his cold demeanor_, robot-like schedule_, and razor-sharp business instincts_, was walking down the hallwith his signature “don’t talk to me” expression_. He was ready for another pointless merger meeting when he glanced out the window–and he saw Lily_. What happened in the next 5 seconds would go down in company history_. Nicholas Smith_, the ice-cold CEO_, burst into laughter_, a loud_, genuine laugh that echoed through the halls_, making employees wonder if someone had hacked the office speakers_.
His assistant_, Ethan_, rushed in thinking his boss was having a meltdown_. “Mr_. Smith_, are you okay? ”
Still clutching his stomach, Nicholas pointed at the window_.
“Look at this insanity_. There’s a girl down there fighting her own dress like it’s an angry octopus_. ”
Ethan peeked outside–and saw Lily struggling with her reflection_. “I think she’s just fixing her outfit,” Ethan suggested_.
“That is not fixing an outfit_. ” Nicholas laughed even harder_. “That is an epic battle for fashion survival_. ” The laughter hit so hardthat Nicholas had to sit down_.
“Ethan_, cancel my first meeting,” he said_, still catching his breath_. “I need to see this girl up close_. ”
Downstairs_, Lily finally secured her dress with a bobby pin_, creating a look that was somewhere between avant-garde influencer and creative survival_. She took a deep breath_, stared at her reflection_, and declared_, “This will have to do_.
” She pushed through the revolving doorswith such force that she almost got stuck between the glass panels_. The moment she stepped inside, reality hit her_. The entire lobby was so sophisticatedeven the floor seemed to judge her_. The receptionists looked like they had just stepped off the cover of a business magazine_.
The suits were so perfectly pressedthey reflected the ceiling lights_. And Lily? Well_, Lily looked like she had accidentally wandered in from a backyard barbecue_. She walked up to the front desk trying to move gracefully, but the loose ballet flat kept making its signature flap flap sound_.
“Hi_, good morning_. I’m here for the assistant interview,” she said_. Smiling like someone on the verge of passing out_, the receptionist didn’t even look up_. “Name?
”
“Lily Collins_. ” The woman pointed with a perfectly manicured finger_. “25th floor_. ”
Lily stepped into the elevator–and finally exhaled_.
Alone_, she looked at her reflection–and gave herself a crooked smile_. “Everything’s under control_. Just say little_, smile_,–and don’t trip_. Easy_.
”
The doors opened_. Lily stepped out–and crashed straight into Nicholas_. The impact was so precise that his freshly brewed_, perfectly scented_, steaming hot coffee turned into a brown waterfall all over his crisp white shirt_. Lily froze_, dead inside_.
Nicholas looked down at his ruined shirt_, then up at her_. The silence that followed felt like time had stopped_. “Oh my god_. I’ll pay for the shirt,” Lily panicked_, yanking out a crumpled $20 billfrom her purse–and trying to shove it into his hand_.
Nicholas blinked in disbelief_. “$20? ” He raised an eyebrow_. “You think that covers the situation?
”
Lily watched the coffee spill_, then the receipt_, then his face_. “Okay_, how about five installments–and some free SVEs? ”
Nicholas had to bite his lip to keep from laughing_. “I’m just trying to get to my interview,” she explained_, blushing_.
“I’m applying for the assistant position_, Lily Collins_. ”
Nicholas stepped aside_, gesturing toward the interview room door_. “Oh_, yeah? Well_, good luck_, Lily_.
You’re going to need it_. ”
Having no idea who he was_, Lily just mumbled a thanks–and walked in_. “It can’t get any worse,” she thought_. Lily stepped into the interview room already feeling like she had lost the job before even getting it_.
Her heart was pounding so hard it felt like the soundtrack of a suspense movie_. She tried to take a deep breath_, but the lingering smell of spilled coffee made her cough_, a strong reminder of the disaster in the elevator_. The room was large–and intimidating–with a glass table so polishedthat Lily could see her own anxious reflection in it_. Three people sat on the other side looking over her resume_, which_, by some miracle_, was already printed–and in their hands_.
That meant her suffering would begin immediately_. “Ms_. Collins_, is that right? ” asked a woman with a tight bun–and the expression of someone who had been sniffing lemons all day_.
“Absolutely right_. ” Lily replied way too enthusiastically_, almost saluting_. The interview panel exchanged glances_. “You can start by introducing yourself,” said a gray-haired man who looked like he had just stepped out of a courtroom drama_.
Lily flashed a big smile_, flipped her hair back_, which accidentally yanked the bobby pin holding her torn dress together_,–and began_, “My name is Lily Collins_,–and I love learning new things–and–”
Before she could continue_, her phone_, which she thought she had silenced_, blared at full volume_. And it wasn’t just any ringtone_. It was a chaotic remix of “Happy Birthday” mixed with an ambulance siren_, a masterpiece personally created by Megan_. Panicking_, Lily yanked the phone from her bag_, pressed all the buttons at once_,–and accidentally answered the call_.
“Girl_, did you get in? Did you spill anything? ” Megan’s voice blasted through the speaker_, loud enough for everyone to hear_. Lily hung up so forcefully it looked like she was trying to exorcise the phone_.
“I–I’m so sorry_. My friend thinks I died_. It’s a protocol thing_, you know? ” She let out a nervous laugh_.
No one joined her_. The gray-haired man cleared his throat_. “Let’s continue_. What are your greatest skills?
”
Lily tried to think of something impressive_, but her mind went completely blank_. “I can do a really good motorcycle horn impression_. ” She had no idea why she said that_. It just came out_.
“Excuse me? ” The woman with the bun narrowed her eyes_. “I mean_, work-related skills_, of course_. ” Lily tried to recover_.
“I’m great at improvising_. For example_, today_,–the bobby pin holding my dress together–is also great for keeping papers in place_. Versatility–is my middle name_. ”
The interviewer seemed to be processing what she had just said–when_, suddenly_, a strong breeze blew in through the open window_.
Lily’s resume_, perfectly positioned on the table_, flew straight into the air vent_, which sucked it up like a vacuum_. On instinct_, Lily lunged to grab it–and_, in the process_, knocked over a glass of water right onto one of the interviewers’ documents_. “Oh my god_, I–I’ll dry it_. ” She pulled out a piece of paper from her own bag to help_.
Except_, it wasn’t just any paper_. It was her grocery list–with words like “extra strong laxative,” “deodorant that actually works,”–and “sanitary pads” written in bold_. The silence was so thick you could cut it with a knife_. “I’m extremely organized_, as you can see,” she said with a hopeful smile_.
The woman with the bun let out a deep sigh_, rubbing her temples_. “Ms_. Collins_, why do you want to work at Smith Global? ”
This was the question Lily had rehearsed in the mirror_, on the bus_, in the shower_,–and even while frying eggs–that morning_.
But at that moment_, her mind turned into a blank desert–with nothing but a tumbleweed rolling by_. “Because–” she swallowed hard_. “Because I need to pay my bills_,–and it would be wonderful to do that without selling homemade fudge on the street_. ”
The gray-haired man took off his glasses_.
“You do realize this is a serious multinational company_, right? ”
“Absolutely,” Lily nodded_. “And that’s why I promise–that if you hire me_, I’ll stop selling fudge–and put all my energy into this job_. Would you like to try one?
I brought free samples_. ”
And then_, as if the universe had scheduled one last dignity test for her_, Lily reached into her bag to grab a fudge–and pulled out a rolled-up pair of tights instead_. “That’s not a fudge,” she muttered_, shoving it back in–and pretending nothing had happened_. The trio was stunned_.
They had never interviewed anyone like this before_. The room fell into an awkward silence–when suddenlythe door swung open and Nicholas walked in_. His shirt was still stained with coffee–and he had a barely concealed smile as he stopped next tothe table_. Lily looked at him_, blinked a few times_,–and her eyes widened_.
“You? ” She shouted_, pointing at Nicholas as if he were a ghost_. The interviewers exchanged confused glances_. “Do you two know each other?
” askedthe woman with a tight bun_. “He’s the coffee guy_. ” Lily accused_. Nicholas crossed his arms–clearly amused_.
“I’m the CEO,” he corrected–still smiling_. Lily froze for 2 seconds before mumbling_, “I–Can I have a nervous breakdown for just a minute? ”
Nicholas ignored her_. “I came here personally to say thatthe interview can end now_.
”
Lily felt the ground disappear beneath her_. She knew it_. She had ruined everything_. “Of course,” she murmured–starting to get up_.
“I understand_. ”
“Because she’s already hired,” Nicholas finished_, catching everyone off guard_. The entire room went silent_. Even Lily forgot to breathe_.
“But sir_, this candidate–” the woman with the bun started_. “This candidate,” Nicholas interrupted_, “has exactly what this company needs_. Courage_, creativity_,–and the rare ability to turn any ordinary situation into something unforgettable_. ”
Lily tried to process what was happening_.
“So_, does this mean–”
“Welcome to Smith Global_, Lily_. ” Nicholas smiled_. “And bring those brigadeiros tomorrow_. I’m curious now_.
”
Lily_, still frozen in shock_, could only reply_, “Sure thing_, coffee boss_. ”
And just like that_,–the strangest–and most successful–interview in the company’s history was over_. Lily walked out of the interview room feeling like she had just survived an earthquake_. Her legs were shaking_, her mind was spinning_,–and for some reason she was still holding the crumpled $20 bill she had tried to hand Nicholas in the elevator_.
She stared at it–and sighed_. “Is this a sign from the universe–or just proof that I’m a walking disaster? ” She muttered to herself while navigating through a sea of impeccably dressed executives who seemed to live in a completely different world_. What she didn’t know_,–and would only find out later_,–was that Nicholas hadn’t hired her because of her extraordinary qualifications–or her natural talent for chaos_.
He had no logical reason for hiring her_. He just wanted to_. From the moment he saw that girl getting tangled in her own dress in the reflection of the building_, something inside him_, maybe a long-forgotten heart muscle–or the part of his brain responsible for humor_, decided to wake up_. Lily was a breath of fresh air in the otherwise stale_, air-conditioned corporate world_.
When Lily got home_, still in shock_, Megan was already waiting with a pot of brigadeiro–and a barrage of questions_. “So_, were you fired before–or after–the interview? ” Megan asked_, shoving a spoonful of brigadeiro into Lily’s mouth_. “I got hired,” Lily answered with her mouth full–as if she didn’t believe it herself_.
Megan’s eyes went wide_. “Hired? How? Did you threaten them?
Hypnotize the interviewer? ”
“I have no idea_. ” Lily threw her hands up_. “I was a complete disaster_.
I spilled water_, almost fell out the window_, spilled coffee on the CEO_,–and called him–the coffee guy_,–and somehow he still hired me_. ”
“The CEO? ” Megan choked on her brigadeiro in pure shock_. “You spilled coffee on the CEO–and you walked out with a job?
You’re a living legend_. ”
Lily threw a pillow at her friend_. “Don’t compliment me_. I’m still trying to process this_.
”
They spent the night laughing_, joking–that Lily must have some kind of accidental spell–that turned public humiliation into signed contracts_. But the truth was_, Lily had no idea what was waiting for her on her first day at work_. The next morning she arrived at Smith Global in an attempt at a professional look_, a white blouse_, a pencil skirt_,–and a pair of heels she had dug out from the back of her closet_. Most likely belonging to some great aunt who danced bolero in the ’80s_.
As soon as she walked into the building_, she felt the stares_. It wasn’t her imagination_. People were actually watching her_. It was as ifthe news of her lightning-fast hiring had spread like small-town gossip_.
“Is that the–coffee girl? ” whispered a marketing analyst_. “I heard she’s Nicholas’s niece–or his secret lover–or a witch_. ” An intern replied_.
“Which makes sense,” someone in the background concluded_. Completely unaware of her instant reputation_, Lily grabbed her temporary badge–and took the elevator up to the executive floor–where her new workstation was located_. Her desk was right next to Nicholas’s office_. That should have been the first sign–that things were about to get interesting_.
Lily’s first task was simple_: organize Nicholas’s digital files_. But for Lily_, simple was an abstract concept_. She started off well_, but within minutes she had mixed up folders_, sent confidential documents tothe HR printer_,–and somehow set Nicholas’s email to automatically reply with a GIF of a dancing llama_. When Nicholas stepped out of his meeting–and opened his email_, he was greeted by the sight of–the llama dancing_.
For a group of Chinese investors_. “Lily,” he called_, trying to hold back laughter_. Lily appeared at the door_, already looking guilty_. “Was it me?
”
“It was_. ” Nicholas pointed at the screen_. “Do you think this llama inspires corporate confidence? ”
“Depends on the company,” she joked_.
He shook his head_, but instead of getting mad_, he smiled_. “Congratulations_, you just set a new record for chaos in under 2 hours_. ”
“I’m efficient at what I do,” Lily said_, giving an exaggerated bow_. Over the next few days_, life at Smith Global turned into a roller coaster_.
Lily was a magnet for small disasters_. She tried making coffee for Nicholas–and ended up setting off the fire alarm_. She knocked over an important stack of contracts–after tripping on her own shoelace_. She answered an international call_, thought it was a prank_,–and responded in a mix of English–and Spanish from a Mexican soap opera_.
Every mishap left Nicholas torn between laughing–and getting a headache_. But strangely_, he couldn’t really get mad at her_. If anything_, Lily’s presence brought life tothe once quiet executive floor_. Office gossip spread quickly_.
“She’s a spy sent to test Nicholas’s patience_. Or maybe she’s the secret daughter of some powerful billionaire_. I bet she saved his life in a past life_. ”
And while the rumors flew around_, Lily just kept being herself_.
And to Nicholas_,–that was oddly refreshing_. One day_, Nicholas was invited to an important business dinner with foreign clients_. And for reasons he couldn’t even explain_, he decided to bring Lily along_. “You want me to go to a high-level business dinner?
” Lily asked_, shocked_. “Are you sure? I’m a walking disaster_. ”
“Exactly,” Nicholas smirked_.
“I don’t have anything to wear for–that_. The company will cover it_. ”
“Can I eat more than I talk? ”
“Please do_.
”
On the night of the dinner_, Lily showed up in a red dress–that Megan had picked out “to make sure you stand out,”–and heels so high they looked like potential weapons_. She was nervous_, of course_, but she hid it by talking non-stop_. Everything was going relatively well–until Lily saw one of the clients holding a tray of appetizers–and without thinking said_, “Hey sir_, can you bring me a really stuffed chicken croquette? I’m feeling fancy tonight_.
”
The “sir” was none other than one of the most important investors in Asia_. The silence in the room was deafening_. Nicholas closed his eyes_. Lily froze_.
Then_, to everyone’s surprise_,–the client burst out laughing so hard that wine sprayed from his nose_. And somehow–what should have been the end of Lily’s career–turned into a good thing_. The clients loved her spontaneity_. On the way home_, Nicholas looked at her–and said_, “You are–the most disastrously brilliant person I’ve ever met_.
”
Lily grinned_. “Is that a compliment–or a medical diagnosis? ”
“Maybe a little of both_. ”
The next morning_, Lily arrived at Smith Global determined to be more professional_.
She had spent the night studying a corporate etiquette guide–while eating cold pizza–and had even written down some formal phrases to use with her colleagues–and superiors_. Her goal for the day was simple_: go 24 hours without causing a mini apocalypse–in the office_. But she was Lily Collins_. That goal was doomed before it even started_.
As soon as she arrived_, she tried to scan her ID badge–at the electronic gate_. Tried_. Instead of her badge_, she accidentally pulled out a pack of gum–and started rubbing it against the scanner–as if that would open the gate_. “Are you trying to bribe the gate–with mint?
” A familiar voice asked_. Lily looked up to see Nicholas holding his coffee_, this time in a spill-proof cup_, clearly learning from past experiences_. “Oh_, good morning_, sir_. Uh–I mean_, Nicholas_.
” Lily smiled nervously_, finally finding her actual ID badge_. “Good morning_, Lily_. ” He smirked_, already mentally preparing for whatever chaos she was about to unleash–that day_. At her desk_, Lily found a stack of documents–and a friendly note from Ethan_, Nicholas’s personal assistant_.
“Lily_, please scan these contracts–and save them as PDFs–in the drive folder called ‘urgent contracts 2025_. ‘ Let me know if you have any questions_. ”
It sounded like a simple task_, but not for Lily_. In less than30 minutes_, she managed to scan the contracts upside down_, save everything as image files_,–and rename them with titles like “help paperwork”–and “mystery document three_.
” As if that weren’t enough_, when she tried to open a drawer to grab more sheets_, she got the hem of her skirt caught on the handle_, got stuck_,–and knocked the entire contents of the drawer onto the floor_. “Great start_, Lily_. ” She muttered_, crouching among staplers_, sticky notes_,–and paper clips scattered like confetti_. That’s when her phone rang_.
Lily answered in the most professional tone she could manage_. “Executive office_, Lily speaking_. How can I help you? ”
On the other end_, Nicholas’ voice sounded amused_.
“Any chance you could bring me a coffee? ”
“Of course_. ” Lily replied_, excited to finally do something simple_. “I’ll be right there with it_, nice and hot_.
”
The plan was easy_: Grab a coffee from the hallway machine–and take it to the boss’s office_. But_, in the universe of Lily Collins_, even that became an Olympic challenge_. As she tried to pour the coffee_,–the machine shot the liquid out with such force–that it splattered onto her blouse–and flooded the tray_. Without noticing_, she added sugar tothe wrong cup_, stirred it with the tip of a pen_,–and as she picked up the cup_, accidentally hit the machine’s safety button_, triggering a maintenance alarm_.
By the time she reached Nicholas’ office_,–the coffee looked like a bubbling magic potion_. The cup was dripping_,–and Lily_, now covered in brown stains_, tried to play it cool_. “Here’s your coffee_, sir_. Fresh–and full of personality_.
”
Nicholas took in the scene_, shook his head_,–and accepted the cup like someone about to take on an extreme taste test_. “Thanks_, Lily_. I’ll savor every drop_. ”
For the next few hours_, Lily tried to be actually productive_.
She answered emails_, though she accidentally signed one as “Liloca Accidental,” organized a spreadsheet–where she mistakenly recorded a $500,000 transaction–as “purchase of 5,000 chicken croquettes,”–and joined a video conference–with German investors–where_, instead of saying “good morning,” she confidently greeted them with “Good moola_. ”
And of course_, Lily’s reputation continued to grow in the halls of Smith Global_. At lunchtime_, she decided she deserved a break_. She went to the office kitchen to grab the instant noodles she had stored in her bag_.
Unfamiliar with the company’s high-tech microwave_, she pressed what she thought was the start button_, but accidentally activated–the grill mode_. The noodles turned into a fireball_,–the room filled with smoke_,–and the fire alarm went off_. Everyone evacuated the floor_,–and Lily_, coughing–and holding her melted noodle cup_, had to explain tothe security team–that this wasn’t corporate sabotage_, just hunger–and a severe lack of cooking skills_. Back at her desk_, now known as “the girl who almost blew up the break room,” Lily tried to focus on a cost report_, but then came her next challenge_, answering a call from an international client_.
The phone rang_,–and Lily picked up with confidence_. “Executive office_, Lily speaking_. ”
“Hello_, this is Mr_. Wong–from Hong Kong_.
I would like to speak to Mr_. Smith_. ”
Nervous_, Lily responded in what she thought was fluent English_. “Yes_, Mr_.
Wong Kong_, no problem_. I call boss now_, okay? Thank you very much_, please_. ”
At that exact moment_, Nicholas happened to be passing by the door_.
He had to lean against the wall to keep from collapsing–with laughter_. “Lily_, please never change_. ” He said_, still laughing_. The day ended with Lily accidentally locking herself–in the file room–after pulling the wrong door shut_.
She spent 30 minutes shouting for help–until Ethan finally found her_. “How did you even manage to get locked in here? ” Ethan asked_, genuinely curious_. “I have special talents_.
” Lily replied_, dead serious_. At the end of the day_, Nicholas called her into his office_. “Have a seat_. ” He said_, pointing tothe chair in front of his desk_.
“Am I fired? ” She asked immediately_. “Amazingly_, no_. ” Nicholas crossed his arms_.
“But_, tell me something_. Do you do this on purpose_, or is this some kind of hidden talent? ”
“Do what? ” She asked_, feigning innocence_.
“Every step you take feels like a new episode of a prank show_. Today alone_, you set noodles on fire_, confused German investors–with chickens_,–and nearly caused a financial crisis–with 5,000 chicken croquettes_. ”
“The croquette thing was an honest mistake_. ” She protested_.
“And as for the rest_, I don’t do it on purpose_. Life just hates me a little_. ”
Nicholas chuckled_. “Well_, it might sound crazy_, but–” he sighed_, “I like it_.
”
“You do? ” Lily blinked_, surprised_. “This company was cold_, boring_, predictable_. Then you came along–and turned every day into an event_.
I haven’t laughed this much in years_. ”
Lily smiled_. “So_, is this like a compliment? ”
“It’s more like a certificate of collective insanity_.
” Nicholas stood up_. “Go home_, Lily_. Tomorrow’s another day of chaos_. ”
“Don’t worry_, boss_.
I promise to bring the full apocalypse tomorrow_. ”
The next morning_, Lily arrived at Smith Global determined to break the cycle of disasters_. This time_, she wore something simple_, no twisted straps–or dangling tags_,–and brought a travel mug of coffee from home_. “Today_, nothing is going to catch me off guard_.
” She muttered to her reflection–in the elevator_. But_,–the universe_, as always_, had other plans for Lily Collins_. The moment she stepped into the office_, Ethan came rushing toward her_, looking desperate_. “Lily_, you need to accompany Mr_.
Smith to a business dinner–tonight_. ”
Lily choked on her coffee_. “A dinner–with clients? Me?
Why? ”
Ethan shrugged_. “Direct orders from him_. He said he needed your ‘chaotic energy’ to make the evening more interesting_.
”
“Chaotic energy? ” Lily put her hands on her hips_. “Am I an assistant–or a circus act? ”
“Depends on the day_.
” Ethan smirked_. “The car will pick you up at 7:00_. Get ready_. It’s going to be a high-class event_.
”
At 6:59 p_. m_. , Lily left home wearing a black dress borrowed from Megan–and a pair of heels–that felt like medieval torture devices_. She got into the car–and found Nicholas already waiting_, looking impeccable in his suit_.
“Good evening_, boss_. ” Lily tried to sound formal_. “Good evening_, hurricane_. ” He replied_, hiding a smile_.
“Seriously_, why am I going to this dinner? Wouldn’t it be better to take someone_, I don’t know_, competent? ”
“Because–” he looked straight at her_. “If the conversation gets boring_, at least I know you’ll create some chaos to liven up the night_.
”
“Wow_, I feel so valued_. ” Lily crossed her arms_. “From office mascot–to official dinner wrecker_. ”
Nicholas chuckled_,–and the car headed tothe most sophisticated restaurant in town_.
The moment they stepped inside_, Lily knew she was out of her element_. Everything sparkled_. The floors_, the glasses_, even the napkins looked like they belonged on a fashion runway_. She tried to walk gracefully_, but her heel got caught in the carpet–and she fell right into Nicholas’ arm_.
“I’m fine_. ” She said way too loudly_, quickly straightening up_. “I’m sure you are_. ” Nicholas replied_, trying not to laugh_.
They were led to a reserved table–where two Chinese investors_, a German businessman_,–and to Lily’s surprise_, a smiling man holding a tray of appetizers–were already waiting_. Lily_, always being Lily_, spoke before thinking_. “Sir_, could I get a well-stuffed chicken croquette? I’m feeling fancy today_.
”
Nicholas turned his head so fast he almost hurt his neck_. “Lily_, he’s not a waiter_. ”
“I’m not_. ” The man interrupted_, laughing_.
“But_, I like your spontaneity_. I’m Mr_. Wang_, one of the lead investors tonight_. ”
Lily turned so red she looked looked like a tomato–in high heels_.
“Oh_, I’m so sorry_. I thought_, because of the tray_, I–” She gestured awkwardly_, completely lost_. Thankfully_, Mr_. Wang laughed so hard it made everyone else relax_.
“That was great_. Finally_, a business dinner–that doesn’t feel like a funeral_. ” He said_. Nicholas glanced at Lily–with a mix of relief–and exasperation_.
“See? I told you your presence would be useful_. ”
Lily forced a smile_, still wanting to disappear from existence_. As the dinner continued_, Lily tried to stay quiet–and avoid knocking anything over_, but it was impossible_.
When they served a fancy soup–with a name she couldn’t pronounce_, she blew on her spoon so hard it splashed broth onto–the German businessman’s suit_. “I’ll wash–that for you_. ” She offered in panic_. “Please don’t_.
” Nicholas stepped in–before Lily could take the man’s jacket_. “Maybe some sparkling water–to calm down_. ” Mr_. Wang suggested_.
Lily grabbed the bottle from the table_,–and instead of pouring_, absentmindedly shook it–before opening_. The water exploded like an out-of-control champagne bottle_, drenching half the table_. “I’m a blessing_, just a wet one_. ” Lily joked_.
Surprisingly_,–the atmosphere remained light_. Lily might have been a complete disaster_, but there was one thing she had–that no one else at–that table did_. She was real_, no filters_. And for some strange reason_,–that put everyone at ease_.
When dessert arrived_, Lily tried to impress by using a word she had learned from an etiquette guide_. “This ice cream–is very sophisticated_. ” She smiled proudly_. “It’s mousse_.
” Nicholas corrected_, nearly crying from laughter_. “Mousse_, fancy ice cream? It’s all cold_. ” She shrugged_.
When the dinner finally ended_, Nicholas said goodbye tothe investors_, who left praising–the most entertaining dinner of the year_. Lily_, relieved she hadn’t caused an international incident_, leaned against the exit wall to catch her breath_. “Was it really–that bad? ” Nicholas asked_, stopping beside her_.
“It was like flying a plane without knowing where–the brakes are_. ” She sighed_. “But_, they seemed to enjoy it_. ”
“I did_, too_.
” Nicholas admitted_. Lily looked at him suspiciously_. “Are you crazy–or just a masochist? ”
“Neither_.
” He answered_, serious this time_. “I just like real people_,–and you’re–the realest person who’s ever walked into this restaurant_. ”
Lily felt a little embarrassed_, something that didn’t happen often_. “Thank you_, I think_.
And–since we’re talking about keeping things real_, I have a proposal_. ”
Nicholas adjusted his tie_. “A proposal? Here we go_.
”
“I bet you $500–that I can turn you into a refined lady–in 30 days_. ”
Lily burst into loud laughter_. “Refined? Me?
Have you ever seen me try to eat sushi–with a fork? ”
“Exactly_. ” Nicholas smirked_. “If I succeed_, you owe me a proper dinner_.
And if I’m still this walking disaster_, then I owe you a week’s worth of breakfast–on me_. Deal_. ”
Lily shook his hand without a second thought_. Little did she know–that this bet would turn into something much bigger than just free breakfasts_.
On her way home_, Lily couldn’t stop laughing–in her car_. “A refined lady? Oh_, poor Nicholas,” she muttered to herself_. As soon as she got home_, she called Megan_.
“Megan_, help me_. I have 30 days to become a princess_. ”
“Princess? You’re more like–that tipsy fairy–from fairy tales_.
”
“Exactly_. ” Lily sighed_. “And this time_, I actually want to try_. ”
“Okay_, we start your royal training tomorrow_.
But tell Nicholas–he’s going to need a miracle_. ”
Lily laughed_. “A miracle? Megan_, I am the miracle_.
A miracle of chaos_. ”
And so_, between snacks_, mishaps–and crazy bets_, Lily–and Nicholas took another step towards something neither of them expected_. A love story–straight out of a romantic comedy–or a police report_, depending on the day_. The next morning_, Lily woke up to an unexpected notification on her phone_.
It was a message from Nicholas_. “Good morning_, hurricane_. Your training starts today at 10:00 a_. m_.
Wear something comfortable–and try not to set anything on fire–until then_. ”
Lily huffed–and tossed her phone onto the bed_. “Comfortable? Does he think I’m going to a spa?
” She grumbled_, trying to figure out what to wear for an etiquette lesson_. After much internal debate–and three desperate messages to Megan_, Lily showed up at Smith Global wearing a tracksuit covered–in dancing avocados–and LED sneakers–that blinked with every step_. Nicholas was waiting in the conference room_, along with a woman with a flawless bun_, a designer suit–and the kind of gaze that could judge even dust particles_. “Lily_, this is Mrs_.
Penelope Von Schneider_. She’s an expert–in etiquette_, behavior–and patience_. ” Nicholas struggled to keep a straight face–when he saw the avocado tracksuit_. “Mrs_.
Von Schneider_, meet Lily Collins_,–the most challenging project of your career_. ”
The woman scanned Lily with a piercing gaze–and took a deep breath_. “Let’s begin,” Penelope said_, pointing toa chair_. “First lesson_, posture_.
”
Lily sat up_, trying to stay straight_, but looked more like a wobbly puppet_. With every adjustment Penelope made_, Lily slouched again–until the instructor finally gave up–and said_, “let’s skip to table manners_. That might be less painful_. ”
Penelope set up a makeshift dinner table–with silverware_, plates–and glasses_.
Lily stared at the arrangement–as if she were looking at a surgical kit_. “Is this for eating–or performing surgery? ” She asked_, genuinely puzzled_. “First_,–the napkin,” Penelope explained_.
“It goes on your lap_. ”
Lily picked up the napkin_, folded it into a little boat–and smiled proudly_. “I learned this from a tutorial_. ”
“On your lap_, Lily_.
On your lap_. ”
“Oh_, right_. ” Lily placed the napkin on her lap_, then immediately grabbed the wrong spoon–for the soup_. “That’s the dessert spoon,” Penelope corrected_.
“Dessert soup? ” Lily blinked_. “Rich people are weird_. ”
Nicholas watched everything from the corner of the room_, struggling not to laugh_.
The second part of the training was about walking with elegance_. Penelope placed a thick book on Lily’s head–and told her to walk across the room_. The result was immediate_. Lily took three steps_,–the book slipped_, she tried to catch it–and ended up knocking over a tea tray–Penelope had prepared to demonstrate British etiquette_.
Broken teacups_, tea spilling onto the carpet–and Lily standing in the middle of the mess_, raising her hand like she was hailing a cab_. “Do I get a trophy for this? ”
“You get a survival medal,” Nicholas replied_. The speech training was even more disastrous_.
Penelope had Lily repeat formal–and sophisticated phrases_. “Good afternoon_. It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Penelope demonstrated_. “Good afternoon_.
Great to meet you_, boss,” Lily responded with a wink_. Penelope took a deep breath–and muttered something in French–that_, based on her tone_, was not a compliment_. “Let’s try something simpler_. Introduce yourself–at a gala dinner_.
”
Lily stood up_, made an exaggerated bow–and said_, “hey_, red carpet crew_. I’m Lily_, an expert–in gourmet snacks–and elevator dancing_. ”
Nicholas nearly fell out of his chair_. “I don’t think–the world is ready for you_, Lily_.
”
After a morning filled with noble failures_, Penelope decided to switch toreal-world practice_. “Let’s have lunch–at a fancy restaurant_. Maybe–in the right environment_, she’ll absorb some elegance–by osmosis_. ” Penelope declared_.
“Let–the world deal with it_. ” Lily replied_, taking a small dance step_. At the restaurant_, Lily tried to follow the etiquette rules_. She really did_.
She sat up straight for 2 minutes_, used–the correct silverware–by accident–and even managed to order water without saying_, “hey boss_, get me a cold one_. ”
But Lily’s instincts soon kicked in_. When the waiter brought a plate of escargot_, she eyed it suspiciously_. “Is this snail staring back at me?
”
Penelope nearly choked on her water_. “It’s a delicacy,” her instructor explained–horrified_. “It’s equally disgusting_. ” Lily pushed the plate away_.
To top it off_, Lily tried to cut a piece of meat–that was smaller than her knife–and the slice flew straight onto–Nicholas’s plate_. “Guess it’s yours now_, boss,” she shrugged_. Nicholas_, already used to this_, simply ate it without a word_. Back at the office_, Penelope evaluated–the training results_.
“Mr_. Smith_, with all due respect_,–this girl is a lost cause,” Penelope said_. “I agree,” Nicholas replied_. “But she’s my lost cause_.
”
Lily grinned_. “Was that romantic–or a threat of being fired? ”
“Could be both_. ”
The week continued with more lessons_, each more surreal than the last_.
In dance class_, Lily stepped on Nicholas’s feet so many times–that he eventually danced alone just to avoid further injury_. In–the elevator etiquette class_, Lily pressed all–the buttons by reflex_, turning a simple ride into a full building tour_. In fashion class_, Penelope tried to teach her about sophisticated color combinations_, but–the next day_, Lily showed up wearing a hot pink blazer_, a lime green skirt–and a gold headband_. “Did you come dressed as–corporate carnival?
” Nicholas asked_. “I call it executive tropical trend_. ” Lily strutted down the hallway–as if it were a runway_. The employees_, already used to her_, applauded_.
Over time_, Nicholas realized–that trying to turn Lily into a refined lady was like trying to teach a cat to fly_, pointless–and hilarious_. And deep down_, he started to wonder why he wanted to change Lily–in the first place_. She was imperfect_, chaotic_, spontaneous–and that’s exactly why he laughed more than he ever had–in his life_. On the final day of training_, Penelope arranged a test_.
A simulated dinner–at the office–with carefully selected guests_. Lily arrived late_, of course_, tripped at the entrance_, naturally_,–and spilled–the appetizer–on Nicholas’s lap_, a house tradition_. But something different happened_. When Penelope introduced Lily tothe guests_, she gave a clumsy little bow_, smiled–and said_, “Good evening_, ladies–and gentlemen_.
I’m Lily Collins_,–the national pride of executive mishaps_. ”
Everyone laughed_, even Penelope_. That’s when Nicholas realized–Lily didn’t need to change_. She just needed to be herself_.
At the end of the night_, Nicholas walked Lily tothe elevator_. “So_, was I refined enough? ” She asked_. “No_, but you were Lily–and that’s much better_.
”
“Was that a disguised flirt? ”
“Maybe a little_. ”
“I liked it_. ”
They smiled at each other–and for–the first time_, Lily didn’t trip while stepping out of the elevator_.
Back in his office_, Nicholas glanced at the window–and saw Lily’s reflection adjusting her hair_. It was impossible not to remember her first day_,–the inside-out dress–and–the laughter–that changed everything_. That night_, Nicholas realized–the biggest lesson from the training wasn’t Lily’s_. It was his_.
Because–in the middle of all–the chaos_, he had found exactly what was missing–in his perfect_, cold life_, a hurricane named Lily Collins_. That night_, Lily lay–in bed staring at the ceiling_. She had survived a week of training–with Penelope Von Schneider_, which alone should have earned her a bravery medal_. Megan_, onthe phone_, listened to every detail while munching on a bucket of caramel popcorn_.
“And you won’t believe it_, Megan_. I almost killed Penelope–with a champagne cork_. ” Lily said_, covering her face–with a pillow_. “But what about Nicholas?
” Megan asked_, far more interested–in that part of the story_. Lily fell silent for a moment_. “Nicholas_–he had been kind_. Despite all–the disasters_, he laughed instead of yelling–and rather than trying to change her_, he simply enjoyed–the chaos_.
He’s different,” Lily admitted_. “He’s not just–that cold_, distant boss–from the movies_. He’s got a hidden sense of humor–under that perfect tie_. ”
“Oh_, so you like him?
” Megan teased_. “It’s not that_. He just–” Lily hesitated_. “Forget it_.
It’s impossible_. He’s Nicholas Smith_, CEO of Smith Global_. And I’m–the girl who walked into the company wearing her dress–inside out_. ”
Before Megan could insist_, a notification popped up on Lily’s phone_, an invitation to a gala event hosted by Smith Global_.
Lily’s eyes widened_. “I haven’t even recovered from–the last dinner–and now I have to–to a gala? ”
“You sure do,” Megan confirmed_. “And this time we’re going all out_.
No more avocado print sweatpants_. ”
The following night_, Lily stood–in front of the mirror–in her small apartment_. Megan had worked wonders_. A classic navy blue dress_, her hair styled in an elegant updo_,–and just enough makeup to look sophisticated without looking like she was on a reality show makeover special_.
“Ready to shine? ” Megan asked excitedly_. “I’m ready not to knock over–the appetizer table,” Lily said_, grabbing her clutch–and taking a deep breath_. When she arrived at the venue_, it felt like stepping into a movie_.
Sparkling chandeliers_, waiters carrying trays of gourmet mini burgers_, glasses of white wine_,–and guests so impeccably dressed–they looked like they had walked straight out of a fashion magazine_. She hesitated at the entrance–and immediately tripped over–the red carpet_. Nicholas_, who was only a few feet away_, saw it happen–and rushed over–before she could take a full fall_. “Of course,” he said–steadying her_.
“It wouldn’t be a Smith Global event–unless you nearly took out half–the decorations_. ”
“I was just trying to make a dramatic entrance,” Lily said nervously_. “You know_, make an impression_. ”
“Oh_, you definitely make an impression,” he replied with a grin_.
“Come on_. I want to introduce you tosome people_. ”
Nicholas guided her through–the room_,–and to Lily’s surprise_, no one seemed horrified by her presence_. Quite–the opposite_.
Some employees even waved–and smiled–as if she were some kind of company celebrity_. “Why are they looking at me like–that? ” She whispered to Nicholas_. “Maybe because you’re–the first assistant to ever make–the CEO laugh every single day,” he replied_.
“That’s practically corporate legend at this point_. ”
Lily felt her cheeks warm_. But before she could respond_, a waiter passed by with a tray of mini hot dogs_. And she grabbed one without thinking_.
As soon as she took a bite_,–the sauce dripped down–the side of her mouth_. Straight onto her dress_. “You have got to be kidding me_. I just got here,” she muttered_, dabbing at the stain–with a linen napkin_.
Nicholas picked up another napkin–but didn’t bother to help_. He was too entertained watching her battle with–the ketchup_. “You really do need a survival guide for social events,” he teased_. “Or maybe a babysitter,” she shot back_.
Later_, as live music started playing_, Nicholas was called over for a toast–with–the board members_. Lily found herself alone for a few minutes–watching–the couples dance–in–the center of–the ballroom_. That’s when she noticed a woman approaching Nicholas_, way too closely for just a coworker_. Tall_, blonde_,–and wearing a breathtaking silver dress_,–the woman placed a hand on Nicholas’s shoulder–and whispered something–in his ear_.
Lily didn’t hear it_, but–the woman’s smile immediately looked faker than a $3 bill_. “Must be–the ex,” Lily mumbled to herself_. And she was right_. Ashley Montgomery_, Nicholas’s ex-fiancée–and Smith Global’s current headache_, was back_,–and she was ready to stake her claim_.
“And who’s this? ” Ashley asked_, eyeing Lily up–and down–as if she were inspecting a second-hand item_. “My assistant,” Nicholas replied_, polite but distant_. “Oh_, of course_,–the infamous backward dress girl,” Ashley said with a sharp smile_.
Lily_, never one to let a jab go unanswered_, smiled sweetly_. “Pleasure to meet you_. You must be–the ex everyone talks about,” she asked innocently_. Nicholas nearly choked on his champagne_.
“That’s right,” Ashley answered_, clearly annoyed_. “I heard you left him standing at–the altar_. Is–that true–or just office gossip? ” Lily continued_, grinning–as if she were discussing–the weather_.
Ashley was speechless for a moment_. Before she could respond_, Lily casually grabbed another mini tart–from a passing tray–and turned to Nicholas_. “I’m going to get a drink,” she said_. “Good luck with your visitor_.
”
Nicholas watched Lily walk away_, unable to hide his amused smile_. Ashley_, on–the other hand_, was fuming_. “Who is–that girl_, Nicholas? ” She demanded_.
“Exactly who you just saw,” he replied_. “And honestly_, she’s a lot more fun than either of us_. ”
At–the bar_, Lily ordered a lemonade_, unaware–that Nicholas had followed her–and was now leaning against–the counter beside her_. “You know_, you have a real talent for turning every situation into a spectacle,” he said_.
“Is–that a compliment? ” She asked suspiciously_. “Totally,” he smiled_. “And you know what would be an even bigger show?
”
“Here it comes,” she rolled her eyes_. “If you danced with me_. ”
Lily looked at–the dance floor_, where couples were elegantly twirling–while she could barely walk–in a straight line_. “I don’t want to be responsible for a gala disaster,” she joked_.
“I’ll take–the risk,” Nicholas extended his hand_. Lily took it_,–and they made their way to–the center of–the room_. He placed one hand gently on her waist–and held her other hand with his_. They started to move_,–and surprisingly_, Lily didn’t step on his foot_.
At least not–in–the first 20 seconds_. “You’re doing well,” Nicholas complimented her_. “It’s because I’m concentrating,” she replied_. “Once I relax_, I’ll probably trip on my dress_.
”
“No worries_, I’ll catch you_. ”
Lily looked at Nicholas_,–and in–that moment_, something changed_. It wasn’t just a dance anymore_. It wasn’t just a silly training bet_.
It was something more_. And it was–in–that moment_, when they got a little closer_,–that Lily really tripped–and fell directly onto Nicholas_, their faces just a few inches apart_. It was a near kiss_. One of those moments where time seems to slow down_,–and all you can hear is your own heart beating_.
“You caught me,” she whispered_. “I’ll always catch you,” he replied_. They stayed there_, frozen_, until–the waiter passed by with another tray_,–and Lily quickly looked away_. “I’m going to grab another little tart_.
Want something? ” She asked_, trying to cover up_. “Just you is enough chaos for me,” Nicholas smiled_. And just like–that_, without saying more_, they went back to–the dance floor_, ready to continue_.
The next morning_, Lily woke up with a strange feeling–in her chest_. It wasn’t just–the exhaustion from–the gala–or–the sore feet from–the high heels–that left her–in public disaster territory_. It was–the memory of–that dance_. That near kiss_.
That look from Nicholas–that she definitely shouldn’t have paid so much attention to_. She turned to–the side_, burying her face–in–the pillow_. “I can’t be falling for my boss,” she muttered_. “This is like something from a bad movie_.
”
Her phone buzzed on–the nightstand_,–and when she saw–the screen_, she almost fell out of bed_. It was a message from Nicholas_. “We need to talk_. Something urgent_.
”
Lily swallowed hard_. Surely she was going to be fired for tripping over him–in front of–the directors_. Or maybe her dress had ripped–and made it onto some corporate gossip site_. She jumped up_, threw on–the first clothes she found_, a T-shirt–with a hot dog print–and sweatpants–that used to be black_,–and rushed out to–the Smith Global building_.
Nicholas was waiting–in–the conference room–with–that look between serious–and amused_,–as if he were about to suggest something completely out of–the ordinary_. “Sit down,” he said_, pointing to–the chair_. Lily sat down–and clasped her hands–in her lap_. “Is this about–the stumble during–the dance–or when I spilled tart sauce on–the investment table?
Because if it is_, I can explain_. ”
“It’s not about–that,” Nicholas interrupted her_. “Actually_, it’s a little worse_. ”
“Worse?
” Lily’s eyes went wide_. “You know–that photo of us right at–the moment of your epic stumble? ” Nicholas showed her his phone_. The photo was on several corporate gossip websites–with a flashy headline: “Smith Global’s billionaire CEO caught–in intimate moment with his secret assistant_.
”
Lily covered her face_. “Intimate? I almost knocked you to–the floor_. ”
“Yeah,” Nicholas sighed_.
“But now it’s a circus_. Shareholders want to know if it’s true_. My mom called thinking I’m getting married_,–and Ashley already sent me a nasty message asking if you’re my new fiancée_. ”
Lily fell silent for a few seconds_.
“So what’s–the solution to this mess? ”
Nicholas took a deep breath–like he was about to jump off a cliff_. “Will you pretend to be my girlfriend for a month? ”
Lily blinked rapidly–as if she hadn’t heard him right_.
“Me? Your girlfriend? ”
“It’s just to cool things down with–the press–and keep–the company board calm,” Nicholas explained_. “After a month_, we’ll say we broke up–and everything goes back to normal_.
”
“This is–the craziest thing anyone’s ever asked me to do_. ”
“It’s your chance to live out a movie romance,” he joked_. Lily crossed her arms_. “Okay_, I’m in_, but with one condition_.
”
“What’s–that? ”
“I want you to buy me breakfast every day–with pancakes_, bacon_,–and orange juice_. ”
Nicholas laughed_. “Deal_.
”
They shook hands_,–and in–that moment_, Lily realized she was about to step into a whirlwind she never saw coming_. That same day_, Nicholas announced to–the executive team_, “Lily–and I are dating_. ” The silence–that followed was so heavy–that even–the air conditioner stopped making noise_. “Seriously?
” Ethan dropped a pile of papers_. “Like_, really? ”
“Totally serious,” Nicholas confirmed_. “You two?
” One of–the directors asked_. “But she’s–she’s unforgettable_. ”
“Exactly,”–the director agreed_. Lily_, standing nearby_, tried to act normal–but ended up spilling her glass of water all over–the table_.
“I’m just so moved,” she said_, trying to play it off_. The news spread through–the office like wildfire_. Within an hour_, Lily had already received messages from every department_. “Did you seduce–the boss?
Tell us your secret_. Is this a forbidden romance–or just marketing? Are you going to be–the new boss_, too? ”
Lily laughed nervously–and answered them all with stickers of love struck kittens_.
But it was–the next day–when things really got out of control_. Early–in–the morning_, Lily barged into–the meeting room–where Nicholas was with investors–and placed a lunch box on–the table_. “Honey_, I brought you breakfast_. Pancakes–and bacon_, just–the way you like it_.
” She announced loud enough for everyone to hear_. Nicholas opened–the container–and along with–the food found a napkin–with a hand drawn heart_. “Very thoughtful_. ” He replied–trying to hold back a smile_.
The investors exchanged looks_, some clearly finding–the scene adorable_, others looking like they couldn’t believe what they were witnessing_. And that wasn’t–the end of it_. During lunch_, Lily went live on–the company’s Instagram showing herself–and Nicholas sharing a milkshake with two straws_. “Old school romance_.
” She captioned it_. Nicholas_, surprised but amused_, played along_. “Should we tell your parents? ” Lily asked–still–in front of–the camera_.
“They already know_. ” Nicholas replied_. “My mother wants to meet you tomorrow_. ”
“Tomorrow?
” Lily nearly choked on her milkshake_. When–the day of–the visit arrived_, Lily did her best to look like a respectable girlfriend_. Megan helped her choose an outfit–and this time there were no avocado prints–in sight_. Nicholas’s mother was exactly as Lily had imagined_, elegant_, well-groomed_,–and with–that sharp gaze–that seemed to see straight into a person’s soul–within 5 seconds_.
“So you’re Lily? ” She said with a subtle smile_. “Yes_, ma’am_. ” Lily replied–tense_.
“Nicholas seems different since you arrived_. ” His mother continued_. “He laughs more_. ”
“That tends to happen when someone almost burns down your company_.
” Lily joked–trying to ease–the tension_. Nicholas’s mother smiled_. “I like you_. You’re different from all–the others_.
”
Lily relaxed_, but only a little_. In–the following days_,–the fake relationship became part of–the office routine_. Lily started leaving sticky notes on Nicholas’s screen–with messages like_, “Honey_, don’t forget to eat lunch_. Take care_, company sweetheart_.
” Nicholas_, in turn_, replied with text messages_. “Rescue me from this meeting_. Run away with me to a world without spreadsheets_. ”
Little by little_, what started as an act became something dangerous–because Lily began to genuinely enjoy being around him_.
And Nicholas_, despite his best efforts to stay–in control_, felt–that something was different when she was near_. The turning point happened at a press conference_. To reinforce–the perfect romance_, Nicholas held Lily’s hand–and told everyone_, “Every day with her is a surprise_. ” Lily smiled–and it wasn’t just for–the cameras_.
That night back–in her apartment_, she called Megan_. “I think I’m actually starting to like him_, for real_. ”
“Of course you are_. You’re–the main character–in a real life romantic comedy_.
” Megan replied_. “This isn’t a movie_, it’s my life_. And–the fake dating contract is going to end_. ”
“So what are you going to do?
”
Lily fell silent_. She didn’t know_. She just knew–that for–the first time she wanted something to actually work out_. And–in–the middle of all this chaos_, Nicholas was also alone–in his apartment staring at his phone–unsure of how to deal with–the fact–that for–the first time–in years someone had made his heartbeat differently_.
The girl with–the inside-out dress_. And he knew–the month would end soon_. But what he felt didn’t seem fake at all_. The next morning_, Lily arrived at Smith Global with a bag of donuts–in one hand–and an oversized coffee–in–the other_.
As a fake girlfriend_, she had decided it was time to introduce Nicholas to–the tradition of “motivational Mondays,” which basically meant stuffing–the boss–with sugar–and caffeine until he forgot it was still early_. But before she even stepped into–the building_, something caught her attention_. A sleek black car pulled up right–in front of–the entrance–and from it stepped a woman_. And not just any woman_.
She looked like she had walked straight off–the cover of a fashion magazine_. Flawless blonde hair_, oversized sunglasses_,–and a dress so form-fitting it seemed like it had been sewn directly onto her body_. In her hand_, a designer handbag–that was probably worth more than Lily’s entire car_. The blonde looked straight at Lily–as if she knew exactly who she was_.
Lily_, on–the other hand_, tried to hide behind–the bag of donuts_. “You must be Lily_. ” The woman said–walking up to her with a smile–that was anything but friendly_. “I–Yes_, I am_.
And you are? ”
“Ashley Montgomery_, Nicholas’s ex-fiancée_. ”
Lily almost spilled her coffee all over her shoes_. Of course she knew who Ashley was_,–the infamous ex-fiancée who left Nicholas just days before–the wedding–to run off with a French chef_.
Lily had heard–the story–in at least three different versions during lunch breaks with–the marketing team_. “Oh_, what a surprise_. ” Lily tried to smile_. “Surprise?
I’d call it just a friendly visit_. ” Ashley said–pushing her sunglasses up onto her head_. “After all_, it’s nice to meet–the person keeping–the seat warm_. The one–that used to be mine_.
”
Lily felt her face heat up_. “Not just keeping it warm_, sweetheart_. I’m making it shine_. ” She shot back–flashing a fake toothpaste commercial worthy smile_.
Ashley let out a short laugh_, spun on her heels_,–and strutted through–the glass doors like she owned–the building_. Lily needed 5 minutes of deep breathing–and two donuts eaten back to back to calm down_. “This is going to be a problem_. ” She muttered to herself–before following–the blonde inside_.
Nicholas was–in–the conference room when Ashley walked–in_. His smile disappeared instantly_. “What are you doing here? ” he asked–not–in–the mood for small talk_.
“Came to take a trip down memory lane_. ” She said–sitting down like she belonged there_. Lily arrived just–in time to witness–the scene–stopping at–the doorway_. “Am I interrupting something?
” She asked–even though she very much wanted to know what was going on_. “Of course not_, dear_. ” Ashley answered before Nicholas could_, her tone sweet but dripping–with poison_. “In fact_, stay_.
I’ve always been curious about who would be next–in line after me_. ”
Nicholas ran a hand down his face–visibly frustrated_. “Ashley_, this isn’t a good time_. ”
“It’s always a good time to reconnect with–the past_.
” She shot back_. Lily_, who had never been one to keep her mouth shut_, stepped fully into–the room_, sat down next to Nicholas_,–and took his hand_. “I just love when exes manage to stay civil_. ” Lily smiled_.
“Shows maturity_. ”
Ashley narrowed her eyes_. “Does it? ”
“Well_, I’m mature enough to know–the difference between something real–and a show for appearances_.
” Lily kept smiling–but squeezed Nicholas’s hand–as if silently warning him_, “Hold me back–or I’m throwing this donut at her_. ”
“You know what’s real? ” Lily leaned–in_. “The breakfast I brought Nicholas today–with donuts–and pancakes–because he likes a happy breakfast_.
I bet you never even brought him a slice of toast_. ”
Nicholas didn’t know whether to laugh–or hide under–the table_. Ashley stood–and walked toward Lily_, her heels clicking sharply against–the polished floor_. “This isn’t a fairy tale_, sweetheart_.
”
“No_. ” Lily agreed_. “It’s a romantic comedy–with a high risk of you becoming–the over–the top villain_. ”
Ashley huffed_, grabbed her bag_,–and stomped out so hard–that Lily was almost sure she cracked–the marble floor_.
“You didn’t have to provoke her_. ” Nicholas said–even as he smiled_. “Oh_, but I did_. ” Lily replied_.
“That woman thinks she owns both your heart–and your parking spot_. ”
And just like–that_,–the cold war between Lily–and Ashley had begun_. That same day_, Ashley posted an old photo of her–and Nicholas at a fancy French restaurant–with–the caption_, “Some memories last forever_. ” Lily didn’t let it slide_.
She uploaded a series of Instagram stories showing her–and Nicholas eating chicken nuggets on–the couch–captioning it_, “The real feast_. ” Ashley fired back with a picture of her–and Nicholas on a yacht–with–the caption_, “Some connections can never be broken_. ” Lily responded with a video of her–and Nicholas struggling to paddle an inflatable boat–in a kiddie pool_. The rivalry went viral–in a way neither of them had expected_.
Lily’s fans created–the hashtag #TeamLily–while Ashley’s supporters insisted she was–the true heir to–the CEO’s heart_. Nicholas found himself–in–the middle of–the storm–watching it all unfold–with a mix of disbelief–and amusement_. “You two are going to destroy my reputation_. ” He told Lily_.
“Or make you–the most famous CEO–in America_. ” She shot back_. But–the final straw came at a company event–when Ashley decided to give a surprise speech about–the good old days_. She stepped up to–the stage_, took–the microphone_,–and started telling stories about her relationship with Nicholas–as if they had been–the most perfect couple–in history_.
Lily had had enough_. She grabbed a spare microphone–and walked onto–the stage_. “Just to clarify_. ” Lily said_.
“I may not have a yacht–or fancy restaurant photos_, but Nicholas has smiled more–in–the past few weeks–with me–than he has–in years–with anyone else_. ”
The audience erupted into applause_. Ashley stormed off–the stage–fuming–while Nicholas pulled Lily into a hug right–then–and there–in front of everyone_. “You’re completely crazy_.
” He whispered–in her ear_. “And you loved every second of it_. ” She replied_. In–the following days_, Ashley stopped showing up_.
Lily won–the meme war_, but something still bothered her_. That hug on stage didn’t seem fake_. For–the first time_, Lily started to wonder_, what if all of this was starting to become more than just a charade? Lily knew her life had been turned upside down–the moment she adjusted–that dress at–the Smith Global Building_.
But nothing_, nothing_, absolutely nothing prepared her for–the wave of strange feelings–that started to flood her chest after–that scene on stage_. The hug_,–the way Nicholas held her hand afterward without anyone noticing_,–and most of all_,–the way he looked at her–as if he wasn’t just thanking her for defending him_, but–as if he was truly seeing Lily–in a new way_, a way she couldn’t explain_. And that she was afraid to understand_. The next morning_, she stepped into–the company elevator determined to act like nothing was happening_.
She was–the same clumsy Lily as always_,–the girl who spills coffee_, calls clients waiters_,–and turns serious meetings into involuntary stand-up shows_. And that’s how she planned to keep it_. But when–the elevator doors closed_, she realized she wasn’t alone_. Nicholas stepped–in at–the last second–holding his phone–and a cup of tea_, which was already strange by itself–since he was known for drinking black coffee stronger than an airplane engine_.
“Tea? ” Lily asked–frowning_. “Are you sick? ”
“You got me hooked on it_.
” He showed her–the chamomile tea bag–after–that impromptu dinner at your apartment_. Lily tried not to smile_. She couldn’t_. “Look at–that_,–the all-powerful Nicholas Smith turning into a tea guy_.
The next step is making you do ’90s boy band karaoke_. ”
“That will never happen,” he assured her_, not even under torture_. The elevator jolted_,–the lights flickered_,–and then nothing_. “I don’t believe this_.
” Lily looked up_. The elevator stopped_. Nicholas pressed–the buttons_. Nothing_.
Tried calling reception_. No signal_. “We’re stuck,” he concluded_. “Great_.
Of course–with me_,–the queen of bad luck_. ” Lily crossed her arms_. “I told you this reverse dress was a curse_. ”
Nicholas leaned against–the wall–and sighed_.
“At least we’re not alone_. ”
Lily stared at–the floor–nervous_. Being alone with Nicholas–in such a tiny space wasn’t exactly helping her new decision to pretend she didn’t feel anything weird about him_. “Want to play something?
” She suggested_. “Like truth–or dare_. ”
“Are you sure? ” Nicholas grinned_.
“I’m great at this game_. ”
“I doubt it,” she replied_. “All right_, your turn_. Truth–or dare?
”
“Truth_. ”
“Do you like working here? ” He asked_, clearly going easy on her_. “I do_, especially because I never know if I’m going to get fired–or promoted–with every new disaster_.
” She laughed_. “Now it’s my turn_. Truth–or dare? ”
“Truth_.
”
Lily hesitated_, then decided to take a risk_. “Why did you hire me–even after–that disastrous interview? ”
Nicholas went silent for a moment_. “Because you made me laugh_, really laugh_, for–the first time–in a long time_.
”
Lily felt her face heat up_. “My turn again,” Nicholas continued_. “Truth–or dare? ”
“Dare_.
”
“Let’s switch things up_. ”
“All right,” he moved closer_. “Close your eyes_. ”
“What?
Why? ”
“It’s–the dare,” he smiled_. “Close them_. ”
Lily closed her eyes–suspicious_.
“Now tell me–the first thing you thought when you saw me–without knowing I was your boss_. ”
Lily opened her eyes–surprised_. “That’s a question_. It’s not a dare_.
”
“Consequence of trusting me,” he shrugged_. She sighed_. “I thought_, what a handsome man_, must be a model–or a perfume salesman_. ”
Nicholas threw his head back laughing_.
“A perfume salesman_, seriously? ”
“I have a terrible track record of judging people on first impressions,” she explained_. “Actually_, I mistook you for–the delivery guy once_, remember? ”
“How could I forget?
” He smiled_. The elevator jolted again_. Lily lost her balance–and fell straight into Nicholas’s arms_. They were so close she could count every single one of his eyelashes_.
“I think it’s my turn to ask a question outside–the game,” she whispered_. “Go ahead,” he replied_, not letting go of her waist_. “Is all of this our fake relationship–still just a lie? ”
Nicholas hesitated_.
Then instead of answering_, he simply leaned–in–and kissed Lily_. It was an awkward kiss–because Lily was holding–the donut bag–and Nicholas still had his tea_, but it was perfect–in their messy way_. When–the elevator finally started working again–and–the doors opened on–the executive floor_, both of them had messy hair–and goofy smiles on their faces_. And of course_, every employee saw it_.
Megan sent a message immediately_. “I knew it_. You two got stuck–and kissed_. I win this bet_.
”
Nicholas grabbed Lily’s phone–and replied_, “nothing has been confirmed_. We might have just been rehearsing for a play_. ”
Lily burst out laughing_. In–the days–that followed_,–the dynamic shifted_.
Their fake relationship didn’t feel so fake anymore_, but neither of them talked about it_. They just kept being themselves_. Lily knocking things over_, Nicholas fixing them_. Lily coming up with crazy ideas_, Nicholas trying to save his reputation_.
And between one disaster–and another_, they were falling for each other_. But of course_,–the peace wouldn’t last_. After all_, Ashley still existed_. And when she found out–the two had been trapped–in an elevator–and walked out looking like they had just seen heaven_, she wasted no time_.
She posted an old photo of Nicholas–with–the caption_, “some loves never fade_. ” Lily responded by posting a selfie of her–and Nicholas wearing matching slippers–with–the caption_, “some loves wear dog slippers_. ” The meme war had a new round_, but this time Nicholas joined–the game_. He posted an old picture of Ashley–and wrote_, “some exes never move on_.
” The internet went wild_. Lily looked at him–surprised_. “You joined my game? ”
“I joined your life,” he corrected_,–and I’m loving every second of it_.
”
It was–the first time Lily realized–that maybe_, just maybe_, what started as an improvised romantic comedy was turning into something much more serious_. And deep down_, she loved–the idea_. Lily couldn’t quite explain what she was feeling_, but ever since–that kiss–in–the elevator_,–the world felt upside down_. And strangely_, she didn’t want to turn it back_.
Nicholas was still her boss_, but now there was something different–in–the air_. The lingering looks_,–the smiles for no reason_,–the accidental touches–that didn’t feel so accidental_. It was–as if their romantic comedy had reached–that stage–where no one really knows what’s going on_. But everyone is rooting for–the main couple_.
The problem was_, Lily wasn’t sure she was ready to be–the lead–in this story_. And then everything completely fell apart_. The morning after–the kiss_, one she still hadn’t fully processed_, Ashley made her final move_. In an exclusive interview for a corporate gossip site_, she spoke_, complete with fake tears–and dramatic pauses_, about how she still loved Nicholas–and was willing to win him back_.
Megan walked into Lily’s office–holding her phone like it was about to explode_. “She basically declared public war_. ”
“I saw_. ” Lily bit into a chocolate donut–with–the force of someone who wished they were biting something else_.
“But you know what? She may have–the media_, she may have–the expensive dress_, she may have–the followers_, but I have something she’ll never have_. ”
“What’s–that? ” Megan asked_.
“A full history of shared public embarrassments–with Nicholas_. That bonds people_. ”
But despite–the joke_, Lily couldn’t ignore–the weight–in her chest_. She didn’t want to be dragged into a competition–with a supermodel ex-fiance_.
She wanted_, well_, she wanted Nicholas to choose_. No scandals_, no manipulations_, just choose_. So–that afternoon_, she did something no one expected_. She resigned_.
“I can’t stay here,” she told Nicholas–handing him an envelope–with her resignation letter_. “Not like this_, not with everything–that’s happening_. ”
Nicholas was–in shock_. “Lily_, you don’t have to do this_.
”
“Yes_, I do_. ” She forced a smile_. “I’m great at creating chaos_, but now it’s time for me to learn how to clean up my own mess_. ”
She walked out before he could say anything_, leaving Nicholas standing–in–the middle of–the office–holding–the envelope like it was a piece of his own heart_.
In–the days–that followed_, Lily disappeared_. She didn’t reply to messages_, didn’t answer calls_. She spent her time watching bad reality shows–and eating ice cream straight from–the tub–while Megan tried to talk some sense into her_. “You can’t just run away,” Megan said_.
“This isn’t a teen movie_. ”
“I know,” Lily mumbled_, her mouth full of ice cream_. “But running away is my hidden talent_. ”
Then a week later_, an invitation arrived–in–the mail_.
A golden envelope–embossed–with–the Smith Global logo_. Curious_, Lily opened it_. “Special invitation_, Smith Global annual event_, theme_, a celebration of originality_. ”
At–the bottom_, a handwritten note_.
“It wouldn’t be a true celebration without you here_. With care_, Nicholas_. ”
Megan grabbed–the invitation–and waved it–in–the air_. “This is basically a romantic summons_.
”
“Or a trap_. ” Lily said–suspicious_. “Or maybe a romantic trap,” Megan insisted_. “You have to go_,–and you have to make an impression_.
”
Lily thought for a few seconds_. Then a mischievous smile appeared_. “Make an impression? That’s what I do best_.
”
On–the night of–the event_, Lily arrived wearing–the same blue dress–from–that infamous interview_,–and of course_, completely–inside out again_. The tag was swinging over her chest_,–the hem was uneven_,–and one strap was awkwardly twisted_. As she walked into–the lobby_, all eyes turned to her_. Some–in shock_, others–in admiration for her boldness–in fully embracing her title as–the company’s official walking disaster_.
Nicholas_, who was on stage delivering–the opening speech_, stopped mid-sentence when he saw Lily_,–and he laughed_, really laughed_, just like he had–that very day_. And that’s why he tried to continue–but couldn’t_. “You know what? I’m changing–the theme of this event_.
” He stepped off–the stage_, grabbed–the microphone_,–and walked toward Lily_. “Tonight_, we’re not just celebrating originality,” he said–looking straight at her_. “We’re celebrating–the person who taught me–that perfection is overrated_,–that sometimes–the best things–in life happen when everything goes wrong_. ”
Lily felt her face burn_, but she smiled_.
“This person,” Nicholas continued_, “showed me–that laughing until you cry is better than trying to look serious all–the time_. That spilling coffee can be–the beginning of a great story_,–and–that true love is–the kind–that embraces every flaw_, right side up–or–inside out_. ”
Then he knelt down–in–the middle of–the lobby_, pulled a small box from his pocket_,–and opened it_. “Lily Collins_, will you marry me–and help me turn every day of my life into a beautifully chaotic romantic comedy?
”
The room erupted–in applause–and cheers_. Megan was crying like it was her own proposal_. Lily_, with tears–in her eyes_, took–the microphone_. “Only if I can keep wearing my dress is–the wrong way_.
”
“Deal,” Nicholas laughed_,–and I promise never to complain_. ”
“Then it’s a yes,” she said_. They kissed right there–as guests tossed makeshift flower petals_, which were actually cocktail napkins_. The event turned into a double celebration_,–the company’s annual gathering–and–the CEO’s spontaneous engagement_.
Lily–and Nicholas danced–in–the middle of–the room_, slipped_, spilled juice on her dress_,–and laughed like nobody was watching_. A few months later_,–the wedding happened_. But of course_, it wasn’t a traditional one_. Lily walked–in with her veil caught on her shoe_, Nicholas forgot half his vows_,–and–the cake collapsed before they could even cut–the first slice_.
But none of it mattered–because–in–the middle of–the mess_,–the chaos_,–and–the laughter_, one thing was clear to everyone_. They had found happiness–in–the most unexpected place_. At–the end of–the night_, as they danced barefoot under–the twinkling lights of their makeshift dance floor_, Nicholas leaned–in–and whispered–in Lily’s ear_. “This was–the most perfect wedding–in–the world_.
”
“Even with my torn dress_,–the fallen cake_,–and my dad crying so much he fainted? ”
“Especially because of–that,” he smiled_. Nicholas cupped Lily’s face_, both of them still laughing–as–the slow music played–in–the background_. “With you_, even chaos feels perfect,” he said_, his eyes shining_.
“Then get ready–because I’m a hurricane,” she replied_, pulling him–in for a kiss filled–with love_, laughter_,–and–the certainty–that together they would always find a way to turn any disaster into–the happiest moment of all_.
