Owen, ever practical, spared me further embarrassment. "Starting tomorrow, we're going on a business trip."
With a few quick coughs to mask his discomfort, he made a hasty exit.
I couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of the usually composed CEO fleeing over a pair of panties. Who would've thought the stern, aloof boss would be so easily flustered?
Living with Owen revealed surprises daily. In public, he was icy and intimidating, but at home, he could be as clingy as a puppy. With no awkwardness about gender boundaries, he grew more comfortable and less reserved around me.
Our male friendship was seriously perplexing. Owen didn't hesitate to share a bottle of water with me, waltz into my room without knocking, or lounge around in just his boxers and a towel post-shower. He even draped himself over me like a boneless cat and sometimes asked me to feel his progress at the gym.
As if I'd be swayed by such minor privileges.
Damn it, those rock-hard abs were tempting! Irritated, I ran my hands all over his sculpted muscles, giving them a thorough exploration.
Megan assured me that Owen was only intimidating on the surface; once one got to know him, he was easygoing. But she also warned me sternly not to let him discover my true gender.
I swore, "Don't worry. I wouldn't risk losing such a good gig."
After a bit more banter, we ended the call, and I heaved a long sigh before heading to the bathroom.
Cameron, oh Cameron, how long are you planning to keep up this masquerade as a man? Are you really going to be Owen's "bro" for the rest of your life?
But then again, it was not like I could get this close to him if I weren't playing the role. I had to keep telling myself to stick with it and make the best of the situation.
But the unexpected hit fast.
On the first day of our business trip, we ran into a major snag. The hotel messed up our reservation, leaving us with just one king-size bed. As I was debating whether to sleep in the lobby, Owen draped his arm over my shoulder and said, "It's just for one night. Let's share the bed."
My heart skipped a beat. This wasn't exactly something I could just "make do" with. What if my cover is blown right then and there?
Maybe my shock showed too clearly. Owen shrugged nonchalantly. "We're buddies, right? Isn't there anything I have that you don't?"
I nervously touched my nose, thinking, Well, I certainly don't have your… you-know-what!