Chapter 3

THREE

K eir Sharpe stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows of his spacious office, gazing out at the New York City skyline. The late afternoon sun cast a golden glow over the bustling metropolis, but Keir barely noticed the view. His mind raced with thoughts of the upcoming interview, his fingers absentmindedly adjusting the cuffs of his tailored suit.

A soft knock on the door pulled him from his reverie. “Mr. Sharpe? Your four o’clock appointment is here,” his assistant’s voice called through the intercom.

Keir took a deep breath, centering himself. “Send her in, please.”

He turned to the door, ready to greet the candidate his mother had so enthusiastically recommended. But as Catrina Reeves stepped into his office, Keir found himself momentarily stunned.

The woman before him exuded an aura of quiet confidence, her curvy figure accentuated by a stylish skirt suit that spoke of professionalism and subtle elegance. But it was her face that truly caught Keir off guard – warm brown eyes that sparkled with intelligence, framed by loose waves of chestnut hair that softened her features.

Keir blinked, realizing he’d been staring. He quickly stepped forward, extending his hand. “Ms. Reeves, welcome. I’m Keir Sharpe.”

Her hand met his in a firm handshake, and Keir’s skin tingled at the contact. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Sharpe,” she replied, her voice warm and melodious. “Please, call me Cat.”

“Cat,” Keir repeated, the informal name rolling off his tongue. He gestured to the sitting area near the windows. “Please, make yourself comfortable.”

As they settled into the plush leather chairs, Keir found himself uncharacteristically flustered. He’d conducted countless interviews over the centuries, yet something about this woman left him feeling off-balance.

“So, Cat,” he began, clearing his throat, “your resume is quite impressive. Multiple advanced degrees, a string of successful projects... What made you interested in the position here at Sharpe Drakon?”

Cat’s eyes lit up, and Keir found himself leaning in, captivated by her enthusiasm. “Well, to be honest, I was surprised to receive your call. Sharpe Drakon has always been at the forefront of gaming innovation, and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects like Guardian AI is incredibly exciting.”

As Cat delved into her background, describing her education and past experiences, Keir found himself hanging on her every word. It wasn’t just the content of her speech – though her qualifications were undoubtedly impressive – but the way she spoke about her work. Her eyes danced with passion, her hands moving animatedly as she described complex problem-solving scenarios.

“...and then, would you believe it, the solution was right there all along.” Cat giggled, recounting how she’d cracked a particularly challenging piece of code. “Sometimes you just need to look at things from a different angle.”

Keir couldn’t help but smile, charmed by her laughter and the genuine joy she seemed to take in her work. He leaned back in his chair, studying her. “You certainly have a unique approach to problem-solving. Tell me, how do you think you’d handle the challenges we’re facing with Guardian AI?”

Cat’s brow furrowed slightly in concentration, and Keir found the expression oddly endearing. “Well, from what I understand of the project, the key is integrating the AI’s protective instincts seamlessly into the user experience, right? I’d start by...”

As Cat launched into a detailed analysis, Keir found his mind wandering. He should be focused on her technical expertise – and part of him was, noting the innovative solutions she proposed – but he couldn’t ignore the way her presence affected him. There was something about her, an inexplicable pull that he’d never experienced before.

Shaking himself mentally, Keir refocused on the conversation. “That’s an intriguing approach,” he said, genuinely impressed. “But I have to ask – the lead engineer position can be demanding. Long hours, high pressure. How would that impact your personal life?”

It was a standard question, but Keir found himself holding his breath, oddly anxious about her answer.

Cat laughed, the sound light and carefree. “Oh, that’s not a problem at all. I’m used to long days – when I’m working on an exciting project, I often lose track of time. And as for personal commitments...” She shrugged, a small smile playing on her lips. “I don’t even have pets because of my allergies, so no worries there.”

Keir felt an inexplicable sense of relief wash over him. He leaned forward, suddenly eager to know more about her beyond her professional qualifications. “Speaking of personal lives, what were you up to when I called you this morning? I hope I didn’t interrupt anything important.”

A faint blush colored Cat’s cheeks, and Keir found the sight utterly charming. “Oh, um... I was actually eating cereal and watching anime,” she admitted with a sheepish grin.

Keir’s eyebrows shot up, his interest piqued. “Anime? Do you have a favorite series?”

Cat’s face lit up, her earlier embarrassment forgotten. “Oh, absolutely! Right now, I’m obsessed with Jujutsu Kaisen. The character development is incredible, and the way they blend traditional folklore with modern storytelling is just...” She trailed off, her enthusiasm infectious. “Sorry, I can go on about anime for hours. Do you watch any?”

Keir nodded, a genuine smile spreading across his face. “I do, actually. It’s a bit of a guilty pleasure. And video games? I assume you’re a fan, given your career choice?”

“Are you kidding? I love video games,” Cat exclaimed. “I play them all the time. My absolute favorite is probably the original Super Mario Brothers. There’s something so pure and timeless about it.”

Keir sucked in a breath, startled by the coincidence. “That’s... that’s one of my favorites too,” he said softly, marveling at the connection.

As their conversation flowed, touching on shared interests and passions, Keir felt a strange sensation building in his chest. It was as if something long dormant was awakening, stretching its wings and roaring to life.

With a jolt, Keir realized what was happening. His dragon – the primal, instinctual part of him that he kept carefully controlled – was stirring. And it declared, with absolute certainty, that the woman sitting before him was his mate.

Keir’s mind reeled. In all his centuries of existence, he’d never experienced anything like this. He’d had relationships, of course, but they’d always been fleeting, superficial things. Nothing that touched his core the way Cat’s mere presence seemed to.

As Cat continued to speak, her eyes shining with enthusiasm, Keir made a decision. He couldn’t let her walk out of this office without ensuring she’d be a part of his life going forward.

“Cat,” he interrupted gently, his voice husky with emotion. “I think I’ve heard enough. I’d like to offer you the position of lead engineer effective immediately.”

Cat’s eyes widened in surprise. “Really? Just like that?”

Keir nodded, a warm smile spreading across his face. “Just like that. You’re exactly what Sharpe Drakon needs. Your expertise, your passion, your innovative thinking – it’s all perfect for the role. And I have a feeling you’ll fit in wonderfully with our team.”

Cat beamed, her joy radiating through the room. “Thank you, Mr. Sharpe. I’m honored, truly. When would you like me to start?”

“Please, call me Keir,” he insisted. “And how does tomorrow sound? I know it’s sudden, but I’m eager to get you up to speed on Guardian AI.”

As they stood, finalizing details and shaking hands once more, Keir felt a sense of rightness settle over him. He didn’t understand the full implications of what his dragon was telling him, but he knew he couldn’t let her go.

Watching her leave his office, Keir’s mind raced with possibilities. He had hired her for her skills, yes, but there was no denying the personal connection he’d felt. As he turned back to the windows, gazing out at the city bathed in the warm glow of sunset, Keir wondered what this meant for her.

For the first time in centuries, he felt the stirring of something new, something exciting. Whatever this connection with Cat meant, he was determined to explore it. The future, which had seemed so predictable just hours ago, now held the promise of adventure and, perhaps, something even more precious – true companionship.

Keir picked up the phone and dialed his sister.

“Keir! I was just about to ask you if you wanted to join us for dinner.”

Amelia often invited him for dinner with her husband and children.

“Yes. I’m on my way. I need your help.”

“Ohhhkay. You got me curious. Hurry up.”

Keir sank into the plush dining chair, the chaos of dinner with Amelia’s family swirling around him. His niece, Lily, giggled as she smeared mashed potatoes across her cheek, while the twins, Max and Theo, engaged in what appeared to be a pea-flicking contest.

“Boys,” Amelia’s husband, Derek, warned, his tone stern but his eyes twinkling with amusement. “What did we say about playing with our food?”

“It’s not playing, Daddy,” Max declared seriously. “It’s a science ‘speriment.”

Keir couldn’t help but chuckle, marveling at the warmth and joy that permeated the room. It was so different from his own carefully controlled life, yet he found himself oddly drawn to the chaotic energy.

As the meal wound down, Derek stood, scooping Lily into his arms. “All right, munchkins, bath time.”

“No bath!” Theo wailed, trying to wriggle away.

“Yes bath,” Derek countered, somehow managing to corral both twins with his free arm. “Uncle Keir doesn’t want to see you turn into little gremlins, does he?”

Keir raised an eyebrow, playing along. “Absolutely not. I prefer my nephews gremlin-free, thank you very much.”

As Derek herded the protesting children upstairs, Amelia turned to Keir, her green eyes sparkling with curiosity. “All right, big brother, spill. What’s got you so distracted tonight? You’ve barely said two words since you arrived.”

Keir hesitated, unsure how to articulate the tumult of emotions swirling within him. “I... I met someone today,” he began, his voice low.

Amelia leaned forward, intrigued. “Oh? Do tell. Wait…is this about the woman mom told you to interview?”

He nodded. “Her name is Cat – Catrina Reeves. She’s the new lead engineer I hired for Guardian AI.”

“Okay, so you hired her. What’s wrong?” Amelia prompted, sensing there was more to the story.

Keir ran a hand through his hair, frustration evident in his voice. “And I can’t explain it, Amelia. The moment she walked into my office, it was like... like everything shifted. I’ve never felt anything like it.”

Amelia’s eyes widened, and then she burst into laughter. “Oh my god, Keir! This is crazy. Brother, your three-date rule is officially dead. You’ve found your mate!”

Keir blinked, stunned. “My mate? My dragon said the same. But... she’s human. And I just hired her. How do I even begin to approach this?”

Amelia’s expression softened. “The same way you’d approach any woman you’re interested in, brother. Get to know her, show her who you are.”

Keir scoffed. “That’s just it. Usually, women throw themselves at me. I don’t think Cat will be doing that. She’s... different. Brilliant. Passionate about her work. You should have seen the way her eyes lit up when she talked about solving complex problems. I was so captivated, I hired her on the spot. I couldn’t bear the thought of letting her walk away.”

“Oh, Keir,” Amelia murmured, reaching out to squeeze his hand. “You really have met your mate. This is wonderful.”

Just then, Derek popped his head into the dining room, his shirt soaked and hair sticking up at odd angles. “Did I hear something about a mate? Congrats, bro. You’ve got a lot of fun to look forward to. Especially when the gremlins come around.” He grinned, grabbing three bottles from the fridge before disappearing upstairs again.

Keir groaned, burying his face in his hands. “I’m completely out of my depth, Amelia. How do I woo a mate? This isn’t just any woman – she’s the one meant for me. I can’t mess this up.”

Amelia’s eyes danced with amusement. “Well, for starters, maybe don’t use the word ‘woo.’ This isn’t the 18th century.” She tapped her chin thoughtfully. “Why don’t you try connecting over the things she enjoys? You said she’s passionate about her work – engage with that. And let her get to know you too. Remember, she knows nothing about mates or our world yet.”

Keir nodded slowly, feeling a sense of control returning. “You’re right. I need to take this slowly, build a foundation.”

“Exactly,” Amelia agreed. “And who knows? Maybe you’ll find yourself enjoying the chase for once.”

Keir chuckled, some of the tension easing from his shoulders. “I suppose there’s a first time for everything. Though I doubt Cat will appreciate being referred to as ‘prey.’”

Amelia snorted. “Definitely keep that dragon terminology to yourself for now. But seriously, Keir, this is exciting. My stoic big brother, finally falling head over heels.”

“I wouldn’t say head over heels,” Keir protested weakly, but even he could hear the lack of conviction in his voice.

As they continued to chat, the sound of splashing and childish giggles drifting down from upstairs, Keir felt a spark of hope ignite within him. He’d led an emotionless love life since he could remember. Never had he been tempted to settle down with anyone. But now, the thought of waiting hours to see Cat was frustrating him. Her face was burned into his brain and kept popping into his mind every few minutes. He was well and truly fucked, but he couldn’t stop from smiling. Catrina Reeves was his mate.