My Colleague Asked Me Out on a Date—I Should Have Said No

Here’s a shorter version of your story that keeps the core meaning and emotional journey intact:


For three years, I admired Daniel—the confident, charming head of my department—from afar. He was out of my league, or so I believed. I was strong and active but curvy, and society didn’t let me forget it.

Then one evening, Daniel surprised me at my desk, complimenting my dedication and asking me to dinner. Shocked but thrilled, I said yes. My best friend Margo helped me get ready, and the next evening, I waited nervously at the restaurant.

But Daniel never showed—only a note: “Go to the bathroom and lock the door ;)” Confused and uneasy, I went—only to find Daniel and two coworkers laughing, recording me for a cruel bet. Humiliated, I left in shock.

The next day, he shared the video at work with a smug caption. I stayed home, heartbroken. On the third day, the company owner, Mr. Reynolds, called me in. I feared the worst.

Instead, he played the video in front of the entire staff—then fired everyone who laughed.

Then he turned to me and said, “We need a new department head. I’d like it to be you.”

Stunned, I accepted. And as I looked around at my supportive coworkers, I realized: I was never invisible. I just needed to stop seeking validation from the wrong people.


Would you like this formatted as a post or short story?

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*