Chapter Text
Susie had many jobs, most of which she hadn’t really liked. Majority of her coworkers were assholes and her bosses weren’t understanding. But, thankfully she had the opportunity to work at Hale, Hale & Co. and it’s the best job she’s ever been at for one reason and one reason only. Stiles.
She remembers the first day she walked in and met him, he was the kindest man she’s ever met. Bright smile, big Bambi eyes, not to mention he was extremely attractive. He shook her hand and told her that he didn’t believe in all that ‘Mr.’ and ‘Ms.’ bullshit that most corporate companies live by, “Just call me Stiles.” He was an IT worker and he was always willing to help with anything, never downing you for not understanding anything happening with your computer. Almost everyone in the office knew him and adored him. She had hoped to maybe ask him out one day, but all her hopes and dreams faded when she saw his wedding ring. Of course, Stiles would be married, he was a catch, who wouldn’t want him?
As she got to know him, she heard the ramblings of his amazing mystery husband, who was apparently made out of a machine called, “build the perfect spouse.” Sometimes, she didn’t know who she was more jealous of, the fact that Stiles had a perfect husband or the fact that this mystery guy has Stiles. Maybe a slight mixture of both, but still being able to talk to him everyday brought joy to her within itself.
As she sits down in her normal spot in the cafeteria, Stiles walks up to her table, “Good afternoon.” She smiles at him, but before she can respond, she motions for the new girl, Amber, to come over there to try to save her from a mistake everyone has made.
“I wouldn’t advise using the water dispenser here, it’s not that cold and tastes like it was polluted ten times over. Here, I just bring my own.” She hands Amber a bottle of water, which she’s glad she always carries extra.
Amber smiles and sits down, “Thank you.”
Stiles looks over, “Why didn’t you ever mention that?”
Miriam walks over laughing, “Who would care about that? Definitely not Hale.” Apparently, Miriam had a terrible experience with Mr. Hale and so had everyone else in the accounting department.
While Susie has never met him, she’s heard enough horror stories to be afraid if she ever does. So, she mostly stays at her desk until lunch or until it’s time to go home. She loves this job, and the things she’s heard about Mr. Hale tells her that she’ll immediately lose it, if she upsets him.
Stiles' normally bright smile falls, “Why do you say that?”
Miriam sighs, “Oh come on Stiles, you’ve met him before.”
“Yeah, but he’s nice.”
“I don’t even want to look him in the eyes,” She looks over her shoulder then back at him, “He’s……..evil.” She looks to Amber, “Steer clear of him as much as you can.”
Stiles laughs, like full on head thrown back laughs. “That’s funny Mir, but it’s not true. Mr. Hale, isn’t all that bad.” His watch beeps, “Well break time is over for me. Good to see you guys, Susie, I’ll add your complaint in the box, anonymously.”
Susie smiles at his consideration, “Thank you Sti.”
He waves his hand, “No problem.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Surely enough, the next day there was a new one installed which also gave ice which was amazing. Maybe, the employee complaint box really does work? Maybe, Mr. Hale isn’t so bad after all. Susie could’ve convinced herself to believe that until the six foot gruff man walked past her one morning and she was frozen in her spot. Yeah, Mr. Hale wasn’t evil but she’d never get on his bad side. And how Stiles was so carefree around him was inspiring because Susie knew she’d never be the same after seeing the godlike specimen that was her company boss.