Chapter 31:A Bold Step

After holding on to each other and watching the stars in comfortable silence, Preston and Caleb finally decided to retire for the night.

Preston headed to the bathroom for a shower while Caleb, ever the responsible one, went to the kitchen to prepare a hangover remedy.

As soon as Caleb was out of sight, Preston snatched up his phone and quickly dialed Annabel. His heart pounded with anticipation.

"Hey, birthday boy! Ready to execute the plan?" Annabel teased the moment she answered.

"Shh! Keep your voice down," Preston whispered, checking over his shoulder. "Did you bring it?"

Annabel giggled. "Of course. I left it in the empty guest room, second drawer to the left. You're really doing this, huh?"

Preston exhaled sharply. "I've made up my mind. I'm of age now. I want to take the next step with him."

"Did you watch all the videos I sent you?" she asked, her tone playfully serious.

A deep blush crept up Preston's neck. "Yes, I did. I think I'm ready."

"Good! Go all out! I'm rooting for you," she encouraged.

Preston ended the call and hurried to retrieve the small bag from the drawer. As soon as he opened it, his breath hitched.

Inside was an undeniably sexy, bold, low-rise bow-front underwear with teasing openings in the front and back. A small note from Annabel sat on top: Go all out. I'm rooting for you!

His entire face turned beet red. "I am going to kill this girl!" he muttered under his breath, but despite his embarrassment, excitement coiled in his stomach.

The night before his birthday, he had nervously confessed to Annabel that he wanted to surprise Caleb with something bold. Annabel, being the ever-supportive and mischievous best friend, had immediately taken charge of the plan, sending him a collection of videos to "educate" him and promising to get him something special. And now, here it was.

He undressed, stepping into the underwear and adjusting it in front of the mirror. It fit perfectly, hugging his body in ways that made him look straight out of a steamy romance novel.

He ran a hand through his damp hair, his heart hammering. I look like a damn pornstar.

He quickly wrapped himself in a robe, checking his reflection once more. "This is it," he whispered to himself. "I'm doing this. For Caleb. For us."

As he stepped into the bedroom, Caleb was already waiting for him, holding a steaming cup of tea.

Caleb's eyes flickered over him, his brows furrowing. "Pee, are you okay? Your face is all red."

Preston forced a smile, hoping he didn't look as nervous as he felt. "Maybe it's the hot water."

Caleb tilted his head but said nothing, handing him the tea before heading into the bathroom to shower.

The moment the door shut, Preston gulped down the tea and sat on the edge of the bed, trying to calm his racing thoughts. This is happening. Tonight, I'm going all out for my Cay. This is my thank-you gift to him. I know he loves me, and I love him too. No more hesitation.

Just the thought of Caleb's hands on him sent a shiver down his spine. His breath quickened as he adjusted the robe, anticipation curling in his belly.

The moment he heard the water shut off, his heart nearly stopped.

Showtime.