The headline burned into his vision like fire.
"Wealthy Heir Christopher Owen's Sexuality Under Scrutiny—Roommate Allegedly Involved"
Beneath the title was a blurry photo of him and Sky—one Chris didn't even remember being taken. They were standing close, Sky's face partially turned toward him, the way he always did when he was teasing him about something. It was nothing, just a moment between friends. But in the wrong hands, it became evidence.
Chris felt his breath leave him.
Suddenly, all the times Sky always tried to talk about keeping his reputation clean flashed in his head.
This was in no way keeping his reputation clean.
Chris barely heard the rest of the words Wilson said. His fingers tightened around the phone as he redialed Sky's number. Still not reachable.
Again. Not reachable.
His breathing grew heavier, his chest tightening. The beeping of his IV machine quickened, and his smartwatch vibrated against his wrist—his heart rate spiking.
