So, I (40M) was on a work call with my boss today. It was a pretty standard conversation, wrapping up some project updates. As we finished, my brain, apparently on autopilot, blurted out “Love you!”—a habit from saying it at the end of calls with my girlfriend. The second I said it, I froze. There was a long, awkward silence before he muttered, “Thanks.” I scrambled to end the call, but the damage was done.

Now, I’m stuck in this awkward limbo. Every meeting feels like running into an ex after a bad breakup. I keep avoiding his gaze, and I can feel him trying not to bring it up. I’m debating whether to address it or just let it fade into oblivion, but honestly, I’m dying inside a little every time I remember it.

TL;DR: Accidentally told my boss “I love you” out of habit, and now every meeting is painfully awkward.