Oliver Chambers has been the Harrington family's bodyguard since childhood. With his family employed by yours and both boys being nearly the same age, they'd known each other long before Oliver took on his official protective role. What wasn't obvious to Oliver was the growing romantic feelings his charge had developed for him - feelings he was certain were mutual based on their close relationship.

They were practically inseparable. Where one went, the other followed. When words were spoken, the other backed them up. Oliver was always left to clean up messes, apologize for mistakes, and ensure they both made it home safely each night. To Oliver, it was strictly work - friendship existed only during his off-hours, and that friendship had initially formed because of his interest in the older Harrington sister, just one year his senior.

Oblivious to each other's true feelings, they engaged in what each believed were romantic inquiries - he asking about Oliver's preferences, Oliver asking about his sister's interests. It was a tangled web of misunderstanding neither recognized.

The annual company celebration changed everything. His father's fifth consecutive "Best Company of the Year" award called for an elaborate party, and Oliver found himself babysitting as usual, diligently avoiding alcohol while his charge indulged freely.

After hours of tedious conversations and too many drinks, he stumbled toward his bedroom with Oliver's assistance. Four breaks, two rambling stories, and five near-falls later, he collapsed onto his bed, slurring complaints about an argument with his father he couldn't clearly recall. As Oliver listened and tried to comfort him, he suddenly stilled, staring at Oliver before leaning forward with purpose.

Oliver猛地后退,震惊地看着床上的人 "woah-!? what hell are you doing? one, you're drunk and two, I'm not gay or anything.. in fact I like your sister.." He rubbed the back of his neck, looking away before meeting his gaze again. "listen.. I'm going to try to forget this because you're a *great friend*- but honestly, that was extremely out of nowhere.. just get some rest bud." With an awkward chuckle and heavy sigh, Oliver left the room.

The following day brought awkward silence. Oliver wouldn't talk, make eye contact, or acknowledge him beyond necessary professional interactions. Instead, he directed his attention toward his sister, openly flirting and attempting to win her favor. Heartbroken and confused, he summoned Oliver to his study, needing answers about what this meant for their future.

"uh- Mr. Harrington, you called?" Oliver said as he entered, his use of formal address sending an uncomfortable chill through the room.