The next day, Isabella was ready to start her work, but early in the morning, she received a call from Nancy, who informed her, "Seb is going to New York for some work for two days, so if you want, you can take the day off today. Just make sure to come tomorrow and clean so that the house doesn't look too messy when Seb returns the day after tomorrow."

"Sure, ma'am, and thank you for letting me know," Isabella replied politely before ending the call.

After hanging up, Isabella was about to climb the stairs because she was just about to leave the house to catch the bus when Nancy's call came.

"What happened? Did they fire you again?" Mrs. Johnson asked mockingly.

"No, there's nothing like that, Mrs. Johnson. My boss is in New York today, so I have the day off," Isabella tried to explain to her.

"Whatever." Mrs. Johnson mumbled while scrunching up her nose and went to her apartment.

Isabella came back to her room and lay down because she didn't have anything to do. She had toast with a cup of coffee for breakfast.

Later that day, with her unexpected day off, Isabella decided to run errands and visit the local market. She picked up some fresh flowers from Mrs. Johnson's garden and a few groceries, planning to bake something nice as a thank-you gesture for Nancy's kindness. The day passed peacefully, but her mind wandered to her new job and what it might bring.

The next day Isabella arrived at Seb's house early in the morning. The house was quiet, as expected. She began cleaning the living room, humming softly to herself. While wiping down the bookshelf, she heard the faint creak of a door behind her. She froze.

Turning slowly, she saw a tall figure in a hoodie stepping into the hallway. In the dim light, all she could see was a shadowy silhouette moving silently toward the kitchen.

Panic set in because the house was supposed to be empty. She quickly grabbed the nearest item, a heavy vase, and tiptoed toward the figure. Her heart pounded as she raised the vase and shouted, "Stop right there! I've already called the police!"

Startled, the man turned toward her and held her hand before she could hit him. With his free hand pulling back his hood to reveal a handsome yet confused face.

"What?" he asked, frowning. "Why would you call the police? I live here!"

She replied mockingly, but her words are firm. "And yes, I own this place. You liar! She wriggled to get free out of his hold.

"Who are you?" Sebastian asked with narrowed eyes. "And what are you doing in my house?" This time he asked a little strictly.

Isabella blinked nervously, looking at his handsome face, still holding the vase defensively. "What? No, you don't! This is Mr. Cruz's house!"

"I am Seb. This is my house," he said, placing his hands on his hips, leaving her hand.

"But you are supposed to come tomorrow, aren't you?" Isabella mumbled confusedly.

"Do I have to take your permission before coming to my own house?" Seb arched his brows. "And who exactly are you?"

Realizing her mistake, Isabella felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment. She slowly lowered the vase and stammered, "I.....I'm Isabella... the new housekeeper and your...old cook." and listening to the name and looking at those hazel eyes, Sebastian felt something, remembering someone, but he knew that she can't be her.

Seb's frown softened a little looking at her, and he replied while clearing his throat. "Well, Isabella, you've certainly made a memorable first impression."

"I apologize, Sir." Mortified, Isabella muttered an apology and quickly busied herself with her cleaning, avoiding his gaze. As she scrubbed the countertops furiously, Seb leaned against the doorway, watching her with a mix of amusement and curiosity.

Because he always imagined his cook as an old lady by the taste and simplicity of the delicious food.

"By the way," he said with a grin, "next time, aim for the knees, not the head. More effective."

Isabella couldn't help but smile despite herself, though she made a mental note to never mistake her boss for a burglar again.

Seb, still amused by the misunderstanding, went to the kitchen to grab some coffee while Isabella continued cleaning, determined to avoid eye contact. However, her attempt to stay unnoticed was unsuccessful when Seb called out from the kitchen, "Have you eaten yet?"

"Damn me!" She cursed herself when she realized what she had done. She ran inside the kitchen while apologizing, where Seb was preparing a simple breakfast of scrambled eggs and toast. "I am so sorry, sir. I didn't cook first because I thought you weren't home. Wait, let me make something...."

"Not a big deal." Seb interrupted her. "Nancy told me already that she gave you two days off, so I had already prepared something for myself." He replied while pouring coffee for himself and asked, "I asked something. Have you eaten?"

Isabella hesitated, unsure how to respond. "Uh... no, sir. But I'm fine. I'll eat later."

"Nonsense. Come here," he said firmly but not unkindly.

"No, sir. Please have your breakfast. I'll have it after completing my work." She politely denied. After all, how could she eat with her employer?

"You're not going to work on an empty stomach," he said, sliding a plate across the counter toward her. "And I am not like typical arrogant bosses. Every person is equal."

She tried to refuse, but Seb raised an eyebrow. "You're already trying to knock me out with a vase. At least let me make sure you don't pass out while cleaning."

Isabella flushed, muttering a quiet "thank you" as she took the plate and sat at the farthest end of the table.

Seb joined her, sipping his coffee and observing her with curiosity. "So, you're the new housekeeper and cook Nancy hired?"

"Yes, sir," she replied softly.

"Seb," he corrected with a soft chuckle. "I'm not a 'sir.' Makes me feel old."

She managed a small smile but didn't say anything more, feeling awkward under his gaze.

"So," he continued, trying to break the ice, "what made you think I was a thief? Do I really look that suspicious?"

Isabella finally met his eyes and looked into his deep gray-blue ocean eyes, her cheeks still warm with embarrassment. "You were wearing a hoodie... and moving quietly. I panicked. I'm sorry."

Seb chuckled. "Fair enough. I suppose I do look a bit suspicious in the mornings."

Despite herself, Isabella felt her nerves ease slightly. There was something disarming about his easygoing demeanor.

He is just handsome would be an understatement. That sharp jawline and brown curls, heart-shaped pink lips, and clean-shaven cheeks adorned with dimples. That one curl falling on his forehead made him more breathtaking.

'Shut up, Bella! Shut up! He is your boss. You never behaved like this, so why now?' She scolded herself and cleared her mind. She never even looked at any man after her breakup with her childhood sweetheart.

On the other hand, Sebastian couldn't help himself but think about his Bella while looking at her hazel eyes.

'What are you doing, Seb? She is not her. She can't be. Never will. She is Isabella. Not Bella. Yes, her name is a bit similar, and also her eyes, but look at her hair. Bella had beautiful golden hair, and she had auburn hair.' He cleared his mind and resumed his work because today he is doing work from home.

After breakfast, Isabella resumed her work while Seb busied himself with emails in the living room. The silence was occasionally interrupted by Seb's phone ringing or the faint sound of him typing.

At one point, Seb glanced over at Isabella as she meticulously dusted the shelves. "You're very thorough," he remarked.

She looked up, surprised. "Thank you, sir. .....I mean, Seb."

He smiled. "No need to be so formal. You're doing a great job, though. The house hasn't looked this clean in weeks."

Isabella couldn't help but feel a small sense of pride at his words. Maybe this job wouldn't be so bad after all because Sebastian isn't like her former bosses.

She always heard Nancy saying that he is kind, and today she witnessed his kind gestures, or who cooks breakfast for his maid.

After completing the cleaning, she started preparing for lunch when Nancy also came with a man. That man isn't tall like Seb.

'And not even handsome like him.' Her subconscious mocked her, and Isabella shook her head.

"Hello, Isabella. How are you doing?" Nancy greeted her.

"I am good, ma'am. How are you doing?" Isabella asked with a soft smile.

"Just tired, and it will remain the same till Christmas." Nancy replied while sipping the water that Isabella offered her. "But we love our job." She smiled brightly.

"That's great." Isabella replied with a smile and exclaimed when she remembered, "Oh! Sorry I forgot." She said while taking out a box from her bag. "Here. I made these for you." She said sweetly while forwarding the box of cookies towards Nancy.

"Aww!" Nancy exclaimed sweetly. "Thank you so much, sweetie. But for what?" She asked.

"Umm...a little token of thanks for giving me this job." Isabella replied.

"Oh sweetie, you deserve this job, but I will accept these cookies. Thank you so much for the treat." Nancy replied while opening the box, and she ate it.

After eating the first bite, Nancy moaned.

"Ummm! So tasty...."

"What are you eating all alone?" Jimmy interrupted her while coming inside the kitchen, and Nancy introduced them both. "By the way. Seb requested a cup of coffee." Jimmy said to Isabella.

"Sure." Isabella nodded instantly. "Do you guys want some?" She asked them.

"I'll have some." Nancy said.

"No, I'll have a glass of milk." Jimmy replied while picking up a cookie, eating it, and going out.

Nancy also left after him, and Isabella started preparing coffee for them.

After a few minutes she served them coffee and resumed her work.

They were all discussing business, and Isabella resumed her duties in the kitchen while Nancy and Jimmy offered Seb the cookies that Isabella made.

After having the first bite, Sebastian stiffened for a moment. The same taste that he remembered of his mother's cookies. He was too young, and he doesn't remember much, but whatever he remembered, he remembers it by his heart.

After completing her work for the day, she left after preparing dinner. As Isabella walked briskly toward the bus stop, her face still warm from the morning's embarrassment.

"Why, of all the first impressions, did it have to be that one?" she muttered under her breath, adjusting her scarf against the chilly air.

As the bus arrived, she climbed aboard, her thoughts swirling. Despite the awkward start, she had to admit Seb wasn't as intimidating as she'd imagined. In fact, there was something surprisingly kind about him, even if he did enjoy teasing her a little too much.

By the time she reached her small apartment, Isabella was exhausted. She kicked off her shoes and flopped onto the couch, staring up at the ceiling.

On the other hand, Seb closed his laptop for the night and walked to the kitchen to heat his dinner. Looking at the food for a fleeting moment, he wondered what kind of life Isabella led outside of her work. She seemed resourceful and grounded, yet there was a hint of sadness in those warm hazel eyes that he couldn't quite place.

"Sebastian Cruz. She is just your employee. Don't think too much and focus on your work." He reminds himself and has his dinner.

After dinner, Sebastian went to his room. As soon as he lay on the bed, his fingers instinctively moved to the locket hanging from the chain around his neck.

"Where are you, Bella? I want to meet you to thank you. Look at what I've become because of you," Sebastian said, gazing at the snowflake locket. "I don't even know if you still remember me, but I haven't forgotten you for even a moment."

The next morning Isabella served him breakfast, and he left for the office after that.

In the office, after completing his meetings, Seb watched Tom from a distance as he worked in the factory. There was something different about him. Now, he seemed earnest, determined to prove himself.

Seb found himself wondering if people truly could change. Christmas was approaching, and forgiveness was in the air, but was Seb ready to let go of the pain Tom had caused?

The holiday season would test not only the limits of Seb's generosity but also his capacity to heal old wounds.

It's been a month since Tom has been working here, but still, Seb kept a watchful eye on Tom as he settled into his new role at the factory. Tom was assigned to a mid-level management position, overseeing the quality checks for the new toy line. Despite Seb's initial doubts, Tom appeared to be working diligently, often staying late to finish tasks.

In the evening, when it was time to go home and Seb was preparing to leave the office, he noticed the light still on in the quality control section. Curiosity got the better of him, and he decided to check.

When Seb entered the room, he found Tom meticulously examining a batch of plush toys, his face lined with concentration.

"You're still here?" Seb asked, his tone neutral.

Tom looked up, startled. "Oh, Seb. Didn't realize anyone else was still around. I just wanted to make sure these were perfect. The stitching on some of them was a little loose, so I thought I'd fix it."

Seb leaned against the doorframe, studying Tom. "You didn't have to. That's not your job."

Tom shrugged. "Maybe not, but I know how important these toys are...to you, to the kids who'll get them. It's the least I can do."

Seb's expression softened, but only slightly. "You've been doing good work, Tom. I'll admit that. But it doesn't erase the past."

Tom set the toy down, his shoulders sagging. "I know, Seb. And I don't expect it to. What I did to you... it's the biggest regret of my life. I was selfish and scared, and I let you down. I'll carry that guilt forever."

Seb crossed his arms, the old pain bubbling to the surface. "Do you even know what it was like? To be a kid with no one to turn to? To build everything from scratch because the one person who should have been there walked away and left you begging on the streets?"

Tom's voice trembled as he replied, "I do. I think about it every day. I was young and scared. I made a mistake. If I could go back and change it, I would. But all I can do now is try to make it right."

The room fell silent, the hum of the factory machines the only sound. Seb stared at Tom, torn between anger and the faint glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, Tom's remorse was genuine.

Finally, Seb spoke, his voice quiet but firm. "It's not that easy to forgive, Tom. But... you're trying. And that's a start."

Tom nodded, emotion clouding his eyes. "Thank you, Seb. I'll keep proving myself. I promise."

Seb turned to leave but paused at the door. Without looking back, he said, "We'll see."

As Seb walked out into the chilly evening air, he found himself reflecting on the man Tom used to be and the man he was now trying to become.

Maybe Christmas wasn't just about spreading joy to others. Maybe it was also about finding peace within yourself. And for Seb, that journey was only just beginning.

Time kept passing like this, and now Christmas was just a few days away. Amid the hustle and bustle of the season, Sebastian always seemed a bit flustered.

However, over the past few days, he had been very pleased with Isabella's work. She had managed both her tasks exceptionally well. On top of that, Nancy and Jimmy loved Isabella's cookies so much that they requested Sebastian include them as part of the charity distribution along with the toys for the children.

Sebastian said he would think about it. The next day, during breakfast, he contemplated discussing the matter further.

As Sebastian pondered the idea over breakfast, he noticed Isabella passing by with a tray of freshly baked cookies. The warm aroma of cinnamon and vanilla filled the air, drawing a faint smile to his face. He decided it was the perfect time to bring up the charity idea.

"Isabella," he called out, his tone soft yet firm.

She paused and turned toward him, her eyes meeting his. "Yes, Mr. Cruz?"

He gestured for her to sit across from him. "I've been thinking about something. Nancy and Jimmy suggested including your cookies in the charity packages for the children this Christmas. They believe your cookies could bring a little extra joy. What do you think?"

Isabella's face lit up with a mixture of surprise and happiness. "That's a wonderful idea! I'd love to help, but..." she hesitated, her smile faltering. "Do you think they'll really like them?"

Sebastian chuckled lightly. "If Nancy and Jimmy's reaction is anything to go by, the children will love them. But I'll leave the decision to you. It's your talent on display, after all."

Her cheeks flushed with gratitude. "I'd be honored to contribute. Thank you for considering this, Mr. Cruz."

Sebastian nodded, feeling an unexpected warmth spread through him at her enthusiasm. "Then it's settled. Let's make this Christmas extra special, and don't worry about the place and ingredients. You can bake them here. I'll tell Jimmy to arrange everything, and even a few staff from the factory will come to give you a hand."

"Thank you, Mr. Cruz." She replied softly.

As Isabella walked away to prepare, Sebastian couldn't help but admire her dedication. Little did he know, this simple act of collaboration would set the stage for a deeper connection between them.

Sebastian's kind and generous nature continued to win Isabella's heart. Her respect for him grew with each passing day. This was the reason she started working even harder and more passionately on the Christmas cookies.

Some wives of the factory workers, looking for extra work, came to Sebastian's house to help Isabella make cookies. The work was going well, and now there were only three days left until Christmas.

Everyone was busy and enjoying their tasks. After all, Christmas is a festival of sharing happiness. Sebastian, too, was so focused on work that he had forgotten everything else. These days have been particularly hectic for everyone.

Sebastian was in a conference meeting with the manager of the factory in France when, while speaking, his hand instinctively went to his locket. For a moment, it felt as if his breath stopped.

"Rayn, I'll call you later." Sebastian abruptly ended the call and started searching for the locket in panic. This locket was something he never kept away from himself, not even for a moment, so where could it have gone?

Like a madman, Sebastian began searching for the locket in his office. It was the one Bella had given him.

Sebastian tore through his office in desperation, opening drawers, flipping through papers, and scattering everything in his path. His heart raced, each passing second heightening his panic. The locket wasn't just an accessory; it was a piece of his soul, a gift from Bella, holding memories of her kindness he cherished more than anything else.

He paused for a moment, running his hand through his hair in frustration. Think, Sebastian, think! he muttered to himself. His eyes darted to the couch, where he often sat to unwind after a long day. He rushed over, throwing the cushions aside, but the locket was nowhere to be found.

Breathing heavily, he collapsed into the chair, clutching his head. Did I leave it at home? The thought barely comforted him; it wasn't like him to be careless. As the weight of his panic pressed down, a soft knock interrupted his thoughts.

Nancy came inside and saw the mess in his cabin. "What kind of storm hit this place?" Nancy asked in shock, looking around the messy room.

"Nancy, I can't find my locket," Sebastian said, running his fingers through his hair in panic.

"Which locket?" Nancy asked, confused.

"The one Bella gave me," Sebastian replied, and realization dawned on Nancy.

"Maybe you left it at home by mistake?" Nancy suggested.

"I never keep it away from myself, Nancy. Forgetting it is out of the question," Sebastian said, dialing the phone at home.

A few rings later, Isabella answered. "Hello..."

Cutting her off, Sebastian asked directly, "Isabella, did you find a chain or pendant while cleaning?"

"No, sir. I didn't find anything like that," Isabella replied. "I cleaned the entire house thoroughly after you left."

Hearing this, Sebastian's heart sank further into worry. He couldn't understand where the locket could have gone.

He hung up the phone and instructed Nancy to search the entire factory and office thoroughly. Then, without wasting another moment, he ran to check his car, thinking he might have dropped it there since he had driven from home and hadn't gone anywhere else.

After searching every inch of the car and finding nothing, he left for home in a hurry, consumed by anxiety.

Meanwhile, Nancy had halted all work in the factory and put everyone to work searching for the locket.

Sebastian reached home in a state of worry, but as soon as he stepped inside, his blood boiled with rage.

Isabella stood there holding the locket, looking at it.

The only thought that came to his mind was that Isabella had lied to him.

"Thief!" Sebastian yelled in anger, snatching the chain from Isabella's hand.

Isabella flinched and trembled at his furious voice.

Because in Sebastian's eyes, there wasn't his usual kindness; there was fire.

Sebastian clutched the locket in his fist, his knuckles turning white as his fury consumed him. "How dare you lie to me, Isabella?" he spat, his voice cold and sharp.

"I didn't." She shook her head vigorously.

"STOP LYING!" He lost his mind because that isn't just a piece of jewelry for him. No. This locket has many memories that he has been holding onto in this miserable life.

Isabella tried to explain, her voice trembling with fear and hurt. "Sir, I didn't take it! I found it just right here before you come......"

"ENOUGH!" he roared, cutting her off. "Do you take me for a fool? You lied to me over the phone, and now you're standing here pretending to be innocent? You hadn't found that earlier, but now when you are caught red-handed, then you are saying that it appeared here mysteriously?"

Tears welled up in Isabella's eyes, but she stood her ground. "I didn't lie, sir. I didn't see it earlier. It must have slipped under the couch while cleaning. I don't know how. I swear."

"Stop making excuses!" Sebastian barked. "You betrayed my trust, and I cannot tolerate thieves under my roof or in my workplace."

"Please, sir, you're misunderstanding......" Isabella began, but Sebastian raised his hand, silencing her.

"Pack your things and leave my house. You're fired!" His words hit like a hammer, final and merciless. He can tolerate anything but lies. And on top of that, Isabella lied to him about the one thing that gives him a reason to live in his otherwise empty life.

Isabella gasped, her heart shattering. "Fired?" she whispered, unable to believe what she was hearing.

"You heard me," Sebastian said coldly, turning his back on her. "I don't want to see your face again. Get out."

"No, please, Mr. Cruz. I swear I didn't steal. I swear to God I don't know how this chain came here. I was walking out of the kitchen when everyone left, and then it came under my feet." Isabella pleaded with him while trying to tell him the truth.

But Sebastian is blind in his rage. Only one thing is swirling in his mind: that she lied on the call, and now when he unexpectedly came home and she was caught red-handed, then she started making excuses.

"I said get out. I don't disrespect women; that's the only reason I am letting you go. It's Christmas, or I would have called the cops." He gritted out the words. "Nancy will clear out your accounts. Now leave before I throw you out."

Isabella's tears spilled over as she stared at the man she had admired and respected, now unrecognizable in his rage. Without another word, she turned and ran to the kitchen to collect her stuff, her vision blurred by tears as she hastily packed her bag.

The air in the house was thick with tension as Isabella stepped out. She paused at the door, hoping for a moment of understanding, but nothing came. In fact, Sebastian stood rigid, staring at the locket in his hand.

With a heavy heart, Isabella placed the extra keys that she had to access the house on the table and left, the sound of the door closing behind her echoing like the final nail in the coffin of her dreams. The job is gone, and Mrs. Johnson will definitely throw her out of the house. She has no idea what she will do now.

Meanwhile, Sebastian just keeps looking at the chain and locket in his hands and keeps thanking God for giving it back to him.

He thought Isabella was a nice girl, but she deceived him. "Not every innocent face is virtuous." He mumbled to himself in disbelief. Even he doesn't know how he could have reacted that way.