~Bella~

"Okay, everyone, listen up." Edward clapped his hands together three times—one of his trademark gestures, then leaned on the table, waiting for all the staff to focus on him.

He grinned, as he looked around the room, nodding to himself, obviously pleased with what he saw. We were a small group as far as offices went, but twenty people could still make a lot of noise.

I picked up my notebook, ready to jot down notes. He bent to the left, tapping my pen.

"No need, Bella. This is gonna be short."

"Okay."

"First off, you'll all be glad to hear this is the last time we have to meet in this room. The damage done by the water leak in the boardroom will be fixed over the break and we can go back to a room with windows and a decent table."

Everyone laughed. The room we were in was usually used as a storage room. It was dreary and dull, and the heat was sporadic at best, but we had to use it after a pipe burst in the boardroom, destroying the furniture and rendering it useless the past few weeks.

"All right. Emmett and I are headed out of town to meet with the resort owners and go through our proposal. You have all done a great job on the project, and I have every confidence we'll be securing the client."

Edward ran one of the most successful software firms in the GTA. It specialized in custom designed reservation services for hotels, resorts, and other travel worldwide. Big or small, Edward could design anything the client wanted. He hired only the best, expected nothing but excellence, and treated his staff, including me, well.

He was without a doubt, the best boss I'd ever had. Professional, kind, fair. Always encouraging, never impatient, and generous. He was driven, a workaholic, and intensely private.

At thirty-three, he was six years older than me. He was tall, his shoulders broad, and what he did to a suit should be illegal. His hair was constantly in disarray, and he had a habit of tugging on it when he was anxious, annoyed, nervous, or tired. His green eyes were set off by a set of heavy brows, and his chin was carved in granite. He was, simply put, gorgeous.

I had been in love with him since the day I came to work for Cullen's Keystrokes.

To Edward, however, I was merely his assistant. The girl who kept him organized, brought his coffee, made sure he didn't forget his mother's birthday, and often ensured he remembered to eat.

But, at least, I got to see him every day. Hear his velvet voice talk as he spoke to clients or staff. Listen to the sound of his laughter, or even better, be the one who made him laugh. We worked together very well, and I enjoyed my job. Edward was brilliant, and he kept me busy every moment trying to keep up with him and the way his mind worked. I never knew what to expect when it came to Edward, except that it would be amazing.

Yes, I loved it here, even if my heart broke a little every Friday when I bid him good night, or I watched him walk out the door on his way to a dinner or benefit, knowing some beautiful woman would be the recipient of his smile, and no doubt sharing his bed. Rumors of his love life were rampant; although, I tried my best to ignore them.

He would never see me as anything but "his girl, Bella." He never gave me any indication he even saw me as a woman. His eyes never strayed to places they shouldn't, his remarks were never flirtatious, and the few times he had hugged me, they had been brotherly and brief.

Not to mention the "non-fraternization policy" Edward had in place in the company. Rumors I had heard, said it was because of a torrid relationship gone bad that he never got over. All I knew was it was never broken, or you were dismissed. On that subject, he remained unbending.

Someone laughed, and I was brought out of my musings. Edward was chuckling, and I hoped I hadn't missed anything important.

"No, Riley, there are no free stays at the resort."

"Worth a shot."

I shook my head. Riley always asked. He was the youngest staff member, and the cheekiest—a favorite for all of us.

"Emmett and I probably won't be back until late this afternoon. The office shuts down at five today, and we're closed until after the New Year," Edward reminded everyone.

"Except those of us on call," groaned Seth dramatically.

"Well, since our product is fucking great, and my staff top-notch, you probably will never get a call, now will you?" Edward returned with a smirk. "And if you do, you will be amply rewarded. Speaking of which . . ."

He held up a pile of envelopes, and quickly dispersed them to everyone. "In case we don't get back before the office closes, here are your Christmas bonuses. Take them with my gratitude for a job extremely well done."

Mine was the last one handed out. Edward smiled kindly at me as he slid the envelope my way. "Especially you, my girl. Thank you for everything you do to keep me in line."

I ducked my head, trying not to blush. I knew he called me his girl simply because that is how he saw me. A girl. His right hand. It meant nothing, but still, my heart fluttered every time he said it.

"They're calling for a storm tonight, so everyone get out of here on time, and enjoy your holidays. I'll see you all in 2017."

Everyone stood, and I moved to my desk, then checked Edward's briefcase, making sure he had all the files he required. I slipped in a couple granola bars, knowing he would need a snack later. Unable to resist, I peeked at my envelope, almost swallowing my tongue when I saw the size of my bonus. I knew Edward was incredibly generous with his staff, but the amount on the embossed company paycheck shocked me.

He strode in, smiling at me. "All set?"

"Yes."

"What?"

I held up my envelope. "Edward, this . . ."

"Is exactly what it should be. You have been exceptional all year, Bella. It's been a record year, and I am sharing the wealth. Please accept it and spoil yourself."

"Thank you," I breathed out.

His smile lit the room. "You are welcome." Then he ran his hand through his hair. "I need something done today, if you have time."

"Name it."

He lifted a box to his desk. "The accountants aren't happy with a few files they went through that James worked on."

I grimaced. James had turned out not to be the best decision Edward ever made. His work was good, but the way he played with his expenses and the time he billed to the customers turned out to be questionable. He was let go a month ago, and all kinds of problems had shown up since then.

"We need to go through three of the files and do a bunch of matching and tracing. Especially the Anderson file. It's a mess." He shook his head. "I should never have trusted him so much."

I held out my hands for the box. "I don't have much planned today. I'll start on them and see what I can get done."

"Great. I trust you more than anyone else." He sat on the edge of his desk. "All set for the holidays?"

I kept my smile in place. "Yes. You?"

He lifted one shoulder. "I suppose. Dinner, presents. The usual."

I nodded. "Sounds about right."

Edward's phone buzzed, and he stood. "Em is ready." He reached for his coat, hesitating. "I guess I won't see you until the New Year."

I tried to quell the sadness I felt at that thought. "If you need me over the holidays, call. I'll be in town."

"I don't want to intrude on your personal time."

I held back my laughter. My personal time was going to consist of a lot of TV, popcorn, and pajamas. Edward didn't need to know that information. He would probably be away on one of his trips with some tall, leggy blond. He seemed to prefer those types.

"No worries. If you need anything, let me know."

Something flashed in his eyes, a look of longing crossing his handsome face, then his expression became smooth again. It happened so fast, I was sure I imagined it.

He stepped forward, engulfing me in a hug. "Merry Christmas, my girl."

For a brief second, I let myself imagine he meant those words. That I was his girl. That the arms holding me close were mine. I was lost in my head, but I could have sworn I felt the drag of his lips across my hair.

He eased back, smiling at me. "Thanks again for all your hard work. I'd be lost without you around here."

I swallowed the thick feeling in my throat.

"Merry Christmas, Edward."

~o0o~

Finishing the last of the chores on my desk, I glanced at the clock, seeing it was only eleven. I looked toward the window at the darkening sky. The storm was beginning to gather. I dragged the box toward me, grimacing as I flipped open the lid and saw the mess the box contained. There were papers, files, documents, and notes—none of them in order.

This was going to take a lot of work. And I would need extra space. My desk was too small, and I certainly didn't want to use Edward's office. He wouldn't mind, except it was going to make a mess, and I knew he was a little picky when it came to his space.

With a sigh, I picked up the box, carrying it to the windowless boardroom. It was empty, and no one had booked it this afternoon. I could spread everything out, and at least get it organized. Depending on how it went, I might take one of the files home with me. I had no plans over Christmas and no place to go. My parents weren't around this year, my friends were busy with their families, and I was alone. It would be good to have something to do rather than sit around and feel sorry for myself. I never mentioned it to Edward. He never discussed his personal life, and I took my cue from him, never offering up any details on mine.

I went to the staff kitchen, filled my large thermal mug with coffee, and helped myself to some of the cookies on the counter. I stopped by my desk, grabbed my iPod, turned off the overhead light, and returned to the boardroom.

Then, with a deep breath, I reopened the box and got to work.

~o0o~

I stepped back with a sigh, surveying the covered table. The files were now spread out on the table, organized into piles, notes made, and I had even matched up the smallest file, noting the discrepancies.

I rolled my sore shoulders, twisting my neck to get the kinks out. I pulled out my earplugs and glanced at the time, shocked to see it was after four. I had been so busy the time flew by. No wonder I was so hungry. I picked up my mug and opened the door, surprised to see the hall dim. I walked down the empty corridor, wondering why it was so quiet. I knew some people were leaving early, but the office felt deserted. I rounded the corner to the kitchen and gasped.

The wall of windows showed me why the office was empty. The storm had arrived early. Snow swirled and beat against the glass, the wind slamming the heavy flakes into the panes furiously.

I hurried to my office, pushing open the door. I snatched my work phone off my desk where I'd forgotten it, seeing the office-wide message that had been sent out by Edward over three hours ago.

Storm warning advanced. Close up. Go home. Be safe everyone. Happy holidays.

I swallowed as I looked around. Everyone would have left around one. I was alone in the building. No doubt, they had looked in my office, saw my empty desk, and thought I had left, as well. I turned on the radio, listening to the local reports, advising people to stay off the roads. The airport was shut down, trains stranded—it was a mess out there. I sat down heavily, realizing for the next few hours, if not the night, I was stuck here. It wasn't as if anyone was going to miss me or I had anywhere else to be, but the office seemed huge and cold without anyone else around.

With a sigh, I reached under my desk and grabbed my workout bag. If I was here alone, I might as well be comfortable. I quickly changed into my yoga pants and shirt, then pulled my blazer back on. The heat in the temporary boardroom was non-existent this afternoon, and I would need the added layer. I was thrilled to find a pair of fuzzy socks that I tugged on my feet, grateful to kick off my dress pumps. Then I let my hair down from its business-like upsweep and stuffed my dress clothes into the bag, shoving it back under the desk.

I took my phone and charger, stopped by the kitchen to get my sandwich from the fridge, and used the Keurig to make another cup of coffee. Someone had taken the last of the cookies, but earlier I had left a box of baked goods on Edward's desk as a surprise. He loved sweets, and there was nothing I could buy for him as a gift. I knew he'd devour the goodies over the holidays. He was always the first to snatch up whatever treat I brought in, and the loudest in asking for more. Since he wouldn't come back to the office, I could eat some of them and bring him in more another time, if I was hungry later. I was sure I could find a blanket somewhere, and I could sleep on the couch in his office. I could always use my coat if I had to. If the building didn't lose power, I'd be fine. I could try to get home in the morning if the storm broke. I picked up the fresh mug of coffee and went back to the boardroom.

Might as well stay busy.

~Edward~

The Hummer pulled up to the side of the building. I glanced over at Emmett with a wry grin.

"Wow. That was some driving. I can't believe we made it back."

His dimples deepened as he smiled. "I told you, this vehicle will drive in any conditions. Best thing I ever bought. But, are you sure you want to go back into the office? How will you get home?"

"I'm fine, Em. I have plans that I need to stay close for. I'll use my place upstairs."

"Ah, the secret lair."

I laughed. The small place I had upstairs was well used by me, and I never discussed it with anyone. Em was one of the few people who had ever been there, or even knew about it. I liked my privacy.

I undid my seatbelt and reached over to shake his hand. "Good job today. Enjoy your break. Say hello to your parents for me."

"See you after the holidays, Edward!"

I entered the private side door and headed upstairs to the apartment. I flicked on the lights, making sure the heat was on, and shed my clothes, shrugging on a thermal Henley and sweat pants. I checked my messages, chuckling at my mother's rambling email. She was still worried about the fact I wasn't joining them this year at my sister Alice's. I had made up a story about plans with friends skiing, promising to join them for New Year's Eve. The truth was I couldn't take another Christmas of being the odd man out. All the love and affection that seemed to amplify during the holidays, was just too much to handle this year. My emotions had been stretched to the brink lately, so I chose the adult, mature way to handle things, and decided to hide.

I'd face the consequences of my actions later when my mother found out. Because she always did. I had to admit, the storm gave me an excellent excuse for my plans being canceled, but I shot off a quick reply, stating I hoped the storm cleared up and my plans would still happen.

I sat down on the sofa, looking out the window. It looked as though I was stuck here for the time being. It was a comfortable place to be stuck. A large, open room, with a small kitchen, a well-appointed bathroom, and a huge king sized bed on a step-up platform in the corner. It was a place I liked spending time. My office was downstairs, and sometimes I worked late, so I only had to use the private elevator and I was home. I had a house on the edge of town, but this was more convenient—especially on days like today. This wasn't the kind of snow you wanted on Christmas—soft and fluffy. This was hard and pelting. Cold. And it seemed the storm was getting worse. I could barely see out the window.

I hoped all the staff got home safely.

Especially one staff member.

With a sigh, I reached over to the jacket I had flung on the back of the sofa. While Emmett had been talking to the owner about the software, I had wandered around the large lobby of the resort. Sparkles caught my eye and I stopped in front of the window of the small jewelry store. There was a display of chocolate diamonds and one piece stood out. A bracelet, delicate and exquisite, shimmed under the lights. Round, dark diamonds surrounded by tiny clear ones and set in white gold. The dark stones reminded me of the warm, rich color of her eyes.

My girl.

Bella.

My right hand, my assistant, and the woman I'd been in love with from the moment I met her when she walked into my office with the head of HR. I knew right away I was fucked. I knew I should have had her placed elsewhere in the company, but I wanted her close. And she was the perfect assistant for me.

I fought it. I fought everything I felt for her. I kept her at arm's length. I made sure she was aware of the "non-fraternization policy." I saw other women, but nothing worked, and I never connected with any of them. They never made it past the first date. I knew people thought I was a player, and I allowed the rumor to circulate. It was easier if Bella thought I was unattainable. She still filled my thoughts and my heart. She was the one constant in my life. I lived for her smile in the morning when she walked in the office, and the saddest part of my day was when she left. It was as if the light dimmed around me. I especially hated Friday evenings, knowing I wouldn't see her until Monday. I was secretly thrilled when I had to ask her to work late or come in on the weekends for some reason.

But I knew she only thought of me as her boss. We worked well together. I would be lost without her, and I didn't want to risk it, even if I didn't have that stupid "non-fraternization policy" in the company guidelines. If all I could be to her was a boss, I would take it.

Still, I found myself in the shop, buying the bracelet. The way the light reflected on the color of the chocolate diamonds reminded me of the way her eyes would light up when she laughed. I stared at the box in my hand and opened it to admire the glitter of the gems. I knew she'd never see it, that she'd never wear it, and yet, somehow I wished she would. I had to have it.

I had been extra generous on her bonus this year. Everyone did well, but I had to admit, Bella's gift was excessive. It was all I could give her. What I wanted to give her—my heart—I couldn't, so at least I knew she could have some material things she might otherwise deny herself.

With a sigh, I snapped the lid shut and stood. I'd figure out what to do with the bracelet another time. I needed to stay busy, so I decided to go down to my desk and do some work.

The elevator was silent, the doors opening with a low whoosh as I stepped into the private dressing area of my office. I made my way to my desk, snapping on the light. On the corner was a box filled with cookies. I didn't need to open the card to know who left them. Bella made the best cookies. I lifted the lid, grinning in delight at the large assortment. I shoved one shortbread into my mouth, groaning as it melted on my tongue. I ate three in rapid succession, then forced myself to replace the lid. I decided I needed coffee, and crossed the office, pulling open the door.

I was surprised to see the light on at Bella's desk, but figured she must have been in a hurry to leave and forgot. I switched it off and went down the hall to the kitchen. The Keurig machine was on, and a container with a half-eaten sandwich in it, was sitting on the counter. I frowned in confusion. We had protocols when the office was closed. Someone was assigned to make sure all food was put away, machines and lights shut off, and the heat turned down—usually, that person was Bella. The storm must have caused a fast exit for everyone, including her. It was a good thing I had come downstairs.

As I reached for a mug, I heard a noise and spun around, realizing I wasn't alone. I set down the mug and strode down the hall. At the end of the corridor, I could see light coming out from under the door of the makeshift boardroom. I pushed open the door and froze in shock.

Working away diligently, oblivious to my presence, was my Bella. She had headphones on, her hips swaying to the music. I had never seen her so casual. Her rich chestnut hair spilled over her shoulders, yoga pants hugged her legs, and her feet were ensconced in a pair of bright red fuzzy socks. Her lips moved, and on occasion, she sang out loud, the tune off key as she warbled.

She was perfect.

But why was she here?

Knowing I would startle her, no matter what, I flicked the light on and off. She startled, freezing on the spot, her gaze cutting to the door. Her eyes widened, and she reached up, pulling out her earphones.

"Edward?"

"You expected someone else?" I smirked. "Santa, perhaps?"

"I wasn't expecting anyone! I thought I was alone in the building."

I stepped forward. "What are you doing here, Bella? Are you all right?"

She shook her head, her hair rippling around her shoulders. "I'm working on the files you left."

I was horrified. "Seriously? I didn't expect you to work on them all night!"

"I know," she assured me. "I was so busy and I left my phone on my desk, so I didn't see the message you sent. I guess people thought I had left. When I went to get my lunch, I saw the storm outside and your text." She shrugged, looking down at the table. "I figured I'd just keep working."

I crossed my arms, staring at her in wonder. Part of me was relieved she hadn't thought I expected her to stay and work into her Christmas vacation, while the other part of me was in awe. When she realized what was happening, she didn't panic, she didn't get upset, she simply buckled down and went back to work. If possible, the love I felt for her grew. She was remarkable to me.

"Were you going to try to go home?"

"No. I had my workout clothes under my desk, so I changed and got comfy. I thought I'd work for a while, then curl up on your couch and use that big TV of yours to watch a movie or something. I was going to try to find a blanket, too."

Without thinking, I held out my hand. "We can do better than that, my girl. Come with me."

She stared at my hand, a frown on her face.

"Trust me, Bella. I have a much better idea than a cold boardroom and an uncomfortable office couch."

"It's not that bad."

I barked a laugh. "It is. I made sure it was, so visitors never stayed very long."

"Oh."

I shook my hand. "Please. Come with me."

She slid her hand into mine, and I frowned.

"Bella, you're freezing."

"The room's been getting colder," she admitted.

I gathered her hands in mine, rubbing them briskly. I lifted them up, blowing on the cold skin. Our eyes met; hers wide with surprise at my touch.

As I stared, I realized then that her cheeks were flushed with cold and the end of her nose looked red. I pulled her in, wrapping my arms around her, feeling the temperature of her body.

"Christ, you're frozen."

"I'm not that bad."

As good as she felt in my arms, I released her and tugged her along with me toward my office. She made an odd noise as we strode past my desk and into my private dressing room. I pushed my thumb against the hidden button and the elevator doors slid open. Bella gasped as I pulled her inside and the door shut.

"I didn't . . . where . . .?"

The door opened moments later and I hurried her into the apartment. She glanced around, confused. I led her to the deep sofa, pushed her into the corner, then ran over, dragged the duvet off the bed, and tucked it in around her.

"Do you live here?" she asked in an awestruck voice.

"I use it when I need to."

"I never knew this place was up here. How did I not know?"

"No one does; well, except Emmett," I told her, as I bundled up her feet, and lifted the remote to turn up the gas fireplace. "You know I like my privacy. I don't need the staff to know there is a place up here where I crash every so often."

"I won't tell anyone."

I leaned over her, brushing a finger down her face. "I know, Bella. I trust you." I frowned. "You are so cold."

"I guess I was so busy I didn't notice." She shivered. "Until now."

I tucked the blanket tighter. "Stay there."

She grinned up at me, her eyes dancing. "I don't think I can move, Edward. I feel like a burrito—all rolled up."

"Good. I'll be right back." I tapped the end of her nose. "Don't move."

This will be a short, fun fic. I wrote it while I was at my inlaws and unable to sleep. It's another little gift for you. Thank you for reading. Update daily.