MM Romance: Enemies-to-lovers workplace romance
Soren and Matteo are assigned to a major project together, with their boss practically relishing the conflicts that will arise from putting two men with very different personalities and work styles together. Soren’s structure and preparation vs Matteo’s carefree and adaptable nature. I think it’s easy to make assumptions about both men if you accept what they are presenting to the world. There is so much more going on beneath the surface. I really enjoy reading stories like this, the clash of personalities, but not for the drama, more for my curiosity of what lies beneath the exterior each man presents to the world.
It’s so interesting seeing the different ways Soren and Matteo express themselves. Soren does his best to keep his expression blank, not giving himself away. Matteo goes for effortless and relaxed. Even though Soren and Matteo know they are being set up to basically give their boss a show, it still is fascinating to see their clashing styles and wonder how they can make things work. When Soren’s presentation is all precision, functionality and purpose, Matteo shows his frustration by pointing out how predictable it is. When Matteo suggests being less rigid, needing things to be living, breathing and organic, Soren comments that it’s chaotic and impractical.
They are instantly butting heads, and I am smiling. I like that they don’t hold back their opinions, they are presenting what they each feel is best for the project. It’s like I’m right in the room with them, waiting to see how they’ll work out their differing approaches.
Matteo gets under Soren’s skin. While he puts up fights about “professionalism” it seems more that he doesn’t like the effect Matteo has on him, the reactions he draws out of him.There is much more to this than conflicting work styles. It feels like Soren needs someone like Matteo. Someone to push him out of his comfort zone. It’s really delicious the way Matteo pays such close attention to Soren. Not so casual after all.
Their first kiss, in the rain, it’s like all the years of tension break open, revealing a need neither one is quite ready for. It’s raw, hungry, unrestrained.
I really like how this story progresses and ends. Can’t give it away, but it feels real and full of hope.
Chosen – Soren’s Story
The bonus story Ryan sends out to his subscribers really helps explain Soren’s background, and the place he’s in when the main story begins.
It’s interesting to see Soren looking at how others interact with him from a detached level. I think because he recognizes people being attracted to his reputation, not really the man beneath it all. It’s not even that people have bad intentions, just that they live on this surface level, and want what proximity to Soren will bring them, like he is a possession to show off, and being seen on Soren’s arm somehow is a reflection of their place in society. Transactional – that’s how it seems others view Soren. “Validated by proximity” is perfect description.
“What would happen…if someone chose him without asking what they gained in return?”
