“That’s what we’re trying to figure out,” Ava says, gesturing toward the bed where Owen is attempting to become one with the mattress. “Apparently my brother and Slade have been—”
“Having sex,” Bryce supplies. “Enthusiastically, from the looks of things.”
“Oh my,” Naya breathes, a knowing smile spreading across her face. “I knew it. I felt the special energy between you two.”
“What’s going on?” Maia’s voice joins the chorus as she appears in the doorway with Jace. “Why is everyone crowded in here?”
“Owen and Slade are fucking,” Zara announces.
Maia’s eyes widen, her gaze darting to Owen, who’s now pulled the blanket over his head. “Owen? Is that true?”
A muffled “Kill me now” comes from beneath the blanket.
“It’s true,” I confirm, deciding to take control of the situation. “Now, if you all don’t mind giving us some privacy—”
“Wait, wait, wait,” Ava interrupts, holding up her hands. “We need details. How did this start? Owen, I didn’t even know you liked men!”
“Neither did I,” comes the muffled response.
“This is perfect,” Zara muses, leaning against the doorframe. “I was getting serious friend vibes from Owen. No offense,” she adds, addressing the lump.
“None taken,” Owen replies, emerging with his hair sticking up in all directions. “Look, can everyone please leave so we can get dressed and join you for breakfast? We’ll answer your questions then.”
“Fine,” Ava concedes, “but I want the full story. Don’t leave anything out.”
“We’re leavingplentyout,” I assure her.
“I’m happy for you both,” Naya says. “Your auras are so complementary—deep indigo and vibrant gold.”
“Thanks. I think?” Owen mutters.
Maia lingers in the doorway, her expression still shocked. “I just…I never expected…”
“Breakfast. Fifteen minutes. We’ll see you there.” I guide her toward the hallway.
Jace, who has remained silent through the entire exchange, finally speaks. “So wait, Owen’s gay?”
“Out,” I order, placing my hand on his back and pushing him out.
“My matchmaking radar was right after all!” Ava declares as I herd the rest of the group toward the door. “I knew something amazing would happen this weekend. I just had the wrong pairing in mind.”
“Congratulations on your success,” I say dryly, finally getting everyone into the hallway.
I close the door and turn the lock for good measure. When I turn back to Owen, he’s sitting on the edge of the bed, his face buried in his hands.
“Well.” I drop the sheet and sit beside him. “That could have gone worse.”
He lifts his head, giving me an incredulous look. “How exactly could that have gone worse?”
“They could have walked in last night when you had my—”
He groans, but there’s a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his lips. “God, did you see Ava’s face?”
“I was more concerned with Bryce’s expression. He’s never going to let me live this down.”
Owen leans against my shoulder. “So much for discretion.”
“Does it bother you that they know?”
