Day by day, as they spent time together, Mark couldn't help but develop feelings for Jay. Despite his growing affection, he feared Jay might feel the opposite—after all, Jay was his boss. Unable to suppress his emotions, Mark became more self-conscious. Once he realized his feelings, he grew terrified that Jay might notice and started avoiding him.
Each morning, Mark would wake up early, make Jay breakfast, and head straight to the office. When Jay arrived, he'd ask for Mark, but Mark kept his distance, his heart racing every time they crossed paths. One day, Jay finally called Mark into his office.
"Why are you avoiding me?" Jay asked.
"I'm not avoiding you, sir. I've just been busy," Mark replied nervously.
Jay narrowed his eyes. "Come and work in my office. That's an order."
Reluctantly, Mark complied but avoided eye contact throughout their conversation. Jay grew curious. "Why won't you look me in the eyes? You're acting strange. Are you okay?"
"Yes, I'm fine," Mark said, though his trembling hands betrayed him.
Noticing Mark's nervousness, Jay softened. "If you're uncomfortable around me, do whatever makes you feel better," he said before leaving. Mark followed him out, accidentally bumping into Jay's shoulder. Jay caught him, holding him close. Their eyes locked for a moment, and Mark's heart raced as Jay leaned in slightly.
"What's wrong? Are you okay?" Jay asked.
Flustered, Mark pulled away and rushed back inside. Jay followed quietly, sitting beside him. "It's late," Jay said. "Let's call it a day."
"You go ahead. I'll finish up here," Mark replied quickly.
Jay smirked. "No. Are you planning to work until you pass out again? Let's go home together."
Mark hesitated. "I'd rather not. People might get the wrong idea."
Jay leaned in teasingly. "Wrong idea? You mean because we're dating?"
Mark flushed, stammering, No "Fine. Let's just go."
On the drive home, Jay suggested, "Let's eat out tonight."
"I'll cook," Mark replied.
"You've worked enough today. Let's eat out—I don't want you overworking yourself," Jay said.
"Are you… worried about me?" Mark asked, blushing.
Jay smiled. "Of course. You're important to me."
"How important?" Mark asked softly.
Jay dodged the question. "Let's eat first," he said. Later that evening, after dinner, they watched a romantic movie. Mark couldn't focus, his mind swirling with thoughts. Feigning a yawn, he said, "I'm sleepy."
Jay patted his shoulder. "Rest here." Mark dozed off, and when the movie ended, Jay gently carried him to bed. Unable to resist, Jay lay down beside him, watching him sleep until he drifted off too.
The next morning, Mark woke up startled. "How did you end up here? What happened last night?" he asked, panicked.
Jay chuckled. "Relax. I did nothing—or do you wish I had?"
Flustered, Mark replied, go to your room"I'm going to shower," Jay ask are you chasing me away? Mark reply no and quickly left the room.