He agrees to a date with the company’s most overlooked woman just to dodge a lonely Christmas, but by the night’s end, he uncovers what’s really been eating at him

She was rarely invited to happy hours or group lunches, an exclusion she seemed to accept without any display of discomfort. Her introspective nature was often interpreted as coldness or antisocial behaviour. As she passed by Tyler’s desk, Alice paused for a moment, holding some papers in one hand.

Her smile was shy but genuine and her calm tone of voice broke the silence of the empty office. I didn’t even realise anyone was still around. You’re really dedicated.

Just don’t work too hard or you might end up being late for Christmas dinner. Tyler looked up from his screen, a bit surprised by her approach. He let out an awkward laugh and shook his head.

Well, actually, I don’t have any plans for the holiday. Alice slightly arched her eyebrows in surprise. She hesitated for a moment before responding, as if she was considering whether she should continue.

Well, I don’t have anyone to spend Christmas with either. I’m going to prepare dinner at home, just something simple. If you want, you’re invited, at least to have something to eat.

Tyler was speechless for a moment. The idea of spending Christmas with the office cat lady wasn’t exactly what he imagined as a lively evening. He opened his mouth to politely decline, but something in Alice’s gaze disarmed him.

There was no pity or neediness in that invitation, just genuine kindness, an attempt to offer companionship to someone as lonely as she was. Well, why not? It might be nice to eat something other than frozen food. Tyler smiled, still unsure, as Alice nodded, visibly pleased with the response.

A few hours later, Tyler arrived at Alice’s apartment. To his surprise, he was greeted by an excited Labrador dog and not by dozens of cats, as everyone imagined. This is Max, Alice introduced the dog affectionately.

He loves visitors. Tyler couldn’t help but laugh at the irony that she actually had a dog instead of cats. The apartment was cozy and well decorated, with a pleasant aroma of cinnamon and pine in the air.

Tyler noticed a beautiful painting on the living room wall, a serene landscape of mountains and a lake. I painted it a few years ago, Alice said, noticing his interest. It’s really beautiful, praised Tyler, admiring the details.

Alice invited him to help himself at the small bar in the room while she finished dinner. Tyler chose a red wine and settled on the soft sofa, feeling strangely at ease. I don’t know what the tradition is in your family.

Do you wait until midnight to eat? Asked Alice from the kitchen. My family didn’t have any specific tradition. We can eat right now if that’s OK with you, replied Tyler.

They sat at the table, which Alice had meticulously set. There was roasted turkey, potatoes, vegetables and a pie that exuded a delicious aroma. Tyler was surprised by the care she took in preparing everything.

During dinner, as the scent of roasted turkey and spices wafted through the air, Alice looked at Tyler with curiosity and kindness. Her voice was calm. Tyler, may I ask you something? You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to, but why are you alone on Christmas? He hesitated, his eyes fixed on the wine glass in front of him, swirling it between his fingers…