A Boss and a Babe – Series Review & Ending Explained

Episode 1

Episode 1 Review

My first impression of A Boss and a Babe is it seems like a sleazy parody of an office romance. Placing a hand on your boss' thigh is a firable offence. For a moment, I thought Cher would lose his job on the first day of the internship. Then, I remember this is the fictional universe of BL, where characters can violate workplace decorum without real-world consequences. As Gun leans intimately into his employee, the boss also disregards boundaries. This romance is an HR nightmare!

Cher is really perky! He's a very different character from Book's last role in Enchante, showcasing another facet of his acting range. I find his personality funny and charming, especially when he gives snarky remarks to his boss. "Isn't talking to me more time-consuming than looking over my resume?" LOL. With that said, I only enjoy his cheeky antics in the capacity of a fictional drama. His perpetually chirpy behaviour is ~too much~ and would annoy the hell out of me in real life. 

Episode 2

Episode 2 Review

A Boss and a Babe touches upon a compelling storyline about a gay boss facing discrimination from his employees. Yet, he hesitates to take disciplinary action. "Sometimes, it's better to keep quiet." Gun is insecure about his sexuality. From his chats with Cher, he isn't comfortable with this part of himself. Also, Gun feels vulnerable as the only openly gay man in a homophobic workplace. He doesn't want to draw attention to his sexual orientation. He prefers to stay quiet to avoid unnecessary judgment.

In addition, Gun may worry retaliation would make others perceive him as an oversensitive or ineffective leader. It's a common dilemma encountered by minority groups in authoritative positions. Gun wants to maintain an image of strength and confidence than being undermined by petty comments. It isn't the right approach. He should set an example and create a safe workspace by addressing these inappropriate remarks. Yet, I understand why Gun would be concerned and prefer to stay quiet. A Boss and a Babe does an excellent job at portraying a complex issue in the workspace.

Gun gives an insightful statement about the discrimination he faces: "Many people seem to understand at first until they start asking who's top and who's bottom. When we want to have kids, they ask who is the father and who is the mother. Honestly, I feel like a freak in society." Clap, clap, clap. I'm impressed with the depth of Gun's poignant monologue. He conveys how LGBTQ+ acceptance is still hindered by heteronormative expectations. He continues to feel marginalized by others and his own insecurities. This astute exchange is one of the highlights in ABAAB.

"What do you want me to do? Stare at her and say I never touch my employees' behind?" But that's precisely what Gun does later in the series. 🙈 Despite admiring Gun's monologue in this episode, the impact diminishes due to his workplace misconduct. Actions speak louder than words, and he gives credibility to those offensive remarks by engaging in inappropriate behaviour. Instead of rising above the homophobic comments, he commits the allegations they accuse him of making. A Boss and a Babe sends mixed messages by not practicing what it preaches.

My other favourite scene in this episode is a random moment. The leads are enjoying a meal in the apartment. Gun makes a pleasant conversation and asks Cher if he cooked the noodles. Instead of giving a straightforward answer, Cher decides to be as sarcastic as possible. "I cast a spell and here they are! Abracadabra, abracadabra!" I laughed. This exchange, among many others, highlights Cher's quirkiness. I love this character because he constantly says or does offbeat things, adding a lot of humour to the series.

Cher is so kind. He identifies a lonely guy at work and introduces Gun to new friends. He also gives reassuring remarks, helping Gun overcome his insecurities. I enjoy the friendship between them. With that said, I don't connect with their romance. A boss visiting his intern's apartment to make sexual advances is overstepping boundaries. Gun doesn't resist his impulses and shows an utter lack of restraint. Sadly, the kiss at the end of the episode doesn't do anything for me. Maybe the reason why Gun doesn't take action against workplace harassment is because he must report himself first. 🙈

Episode 3

Episode 3 Review

In this episode, Cher is late for work and about to be reprimanded by HR. Yet, Gun intervenes and rescues him from getting reported. Although a minor incident, it's troubling that Cher enjoys special privileges. Other employees may feel demoralized since they won't receive this preferential treatment. It's a small example of how Gun's inappropriate relationship sets ripples across numerous workplace issues. He has created an iffy office environment where the rules don't apply if you hook up with the boss.

I like the hometown visit in this episode, taking Gun and Cher away from the office setting. It's better to see them bond outside work, where they are (mostly) two equals without the boss and intern hierarchy. In addition, I like learning about Cher's upbringing. Unlike Gun, Cher is raised in humble surroundings, explaining his down-to-earth nature. Gun is out of his comfort zone in this rural environment. As a result, we see a different side to his character. He's clumsier, less in control, and more vulnerable. This episode effectively adds nuances to both protagonists' characterizations.

Episode 4

Episode 4 Review

Tian's storyline has similarities to Cher and Gun's workplace romance. Both address the harmful consequences of stigma. Whenever Cher visits his hometown, he faces public condemnation. Other residents gossip about him and his relationship with Tian, the pregnant teen who died. The scrutiny draws parallels to the stressful office environment with Gun. He feels mentally strained by others passing judgment about his sexuality and relationship with Cher.

Tian's storyline seems too heavy for a lighthearted BL drama like A Boss and a Babe. A pregnant teen's suicide due to her father's assault is extremely tragic. It clashes with the zany, cheerful vibe of this series. The story also handles the plot poorly, not giving it enough respect. It introduces intense trauma and doesn't follow up with the necessary depth or diligence. In addition, the bar fight is an awkward way to reveal this crucial information. Cher suddenly has drinks with a random nobody. The scene's only purpose is to drop the bombshell about Tian. The scenario feels clunky and contrived.

Episode 5

Episode 5 Review

"You might think I'm incompetent in the gaming industry…" LMAO. I have thought this about Gun since the series started. He seems ill-equipped to run a video game development company. This musclebro has no technical background, industry knowledge, or interest in gaming. Gun sounds out of his depth when he argues with Jack about horror games in the first episode. ABAAB portrays many details unrealistically, but the inept CEO is accurate. Like in real life, the least qualified executives run corporations. *lol*

Everything I've seen from Gun shows he's a terrible boss. Firstly, he uses business hours to flirt with a subordinate, creating an unprofessional workplace environment. Secondly, the CEO of a corporation takes business advice from the intern he's sleeping with. Does he have any credibility as a leader? And thirdly, look at the toxic workplace culture. All his employees fear communicating with him. They seem shocked when he sets up catering, indicating he hasn't done anything to boost workforce morale. I would HATE to work for a crappy boss like Gun.

That scene in the parking lot made me shudder. Gun traps Cher in the car, not letting him escape. This gesture alone is already very creepy. Furthermore, Gun taunts his subordinate, "People will know an intern and the company owner are alone together." This statement shows Gun will abuse his position of power to intimidate, manipulate, and coerce Cher. The CEO threatens the young employee's career & reputation, using the fear to reduce Cher's autonomy and control him. I have found Gun's past actions inappropriate, but this is one of the most egregious offences.

OMFG. I had a visceral reaction when Gun forced a kiss on Cher. Eww, this man is so slimy. The location also contributes to the terrible optics. Both characters are in a parking lot, confined inside a tiny car. There's no space for Cher to escape Gun's touchy-feely hands and invasive mouth. The unglamorous setting adds to the sordidness of their relationship. I don't feel any romance from this exchange. Instead, I feel gross and uncomfortable by the sleazy, predatory boss.

There have been many office BL series lately, but I noticed a disturbing trend. I just finished reviewing Love Mate, featuring another invasive protagonist who harasses his coworker. Earlier, I watched Bed Friend, where the lead faced sexual assault around his office multiple times. I have reached the point where my brain automatically associates predatory behaviour with workplace BL dramas. Maybe this irresponsible genre isn't ready to portray the delicate nuances of relationships in the professional realm. Let's go back to churning out generic school romances, please!

Let's change the topic to something else. *in Cher's voice* "Do you think they're duck eggs or chicken eggs?" I want to discuss the ~merchandise~ in this episode. Did anyone else feel cynical when Cher gifted a custom coffee cup to his boss? When I saw the design, I thought to myself, "GMM will sell the mug in their online store." Indeed, the A Boss and a Babe cup has become an actual product. To clarify, I don't have an issue with these commercial tie-ins. It was just the thought that crossed my mind because I'm so used to marketing trends in BL dramas lol.

Episode 6

Episode 6 Review

Three and Zo are adorable together. Unlike the leads, the secondary couple has a healthy, green-flag relationship. Three's love declarations seem so cheesy that they are funny. "Your hug can actually kill me, but I'm willing to die in your arms, Zo." That's a really cute line, hehe~ Also, I like how Zo soothes and supports his other half. After arguing with Jack, Three is in a foul mood. Zo uses sweet, gentle words to cheer up his boyfriend, demonstrating his emotional intelligence.

The problem with Three and Zo is their lack of focus and development. This secondary couple is irrelevant and doesn't have any meaningful plot. So much is missing from their love story, including how they met, why they fell in love, or when they became a couple. I know too little about these supporting characters. Three and Zo are the leads in another story, The Gamer and His Awkward Boy. However, I believe there are some unknown issues with adapting the spin-off into a drama, limiting the backstory material. That could be the reason why Three and Zo have so little content.

OMFG. My mouth dropped during Gun's chat with his former business partner Thyme. I know Thyme is in the wrong for stealing company assets. He used an old email to rip off the team's work. However, Gun's words are so smug and condescending that he comes across as the villain. "I have everything while you have nothing. You've tried so hard, but you've gained so little compared to me. That game you stole, it might help to make your life half as good as mine." Seeing this arrogant rich guy brag about his wealth and privilege is so damn off-putting. What a fucking prick!

Midway through the episode, Cher and Gun are alone in the bedroom. Cher disrobes Gun, unbuttoning his shirt one by one. I really like the seduction in that scene. I made myself comfortable in my chair, watching each moment with giddy anticipation. 😚 Afterwards, Gun struts away from the bedroom with his shirt open, thrusting his chiseled pecs at the camera. The actor looks soooo sexy~ This BL drama has a fitting name because Gun is both the boss and the babe.

Before they kiss, Gun asks Cher for his consent. However, their consent was compromised from the start of this inappropriate affair. They have an imbalanced power dynamic. As a subordinate, Cher is pressured to comply with Gun's advances due to repercussions. Gun trapped him in the car once, threatening to expose their relationship. He can do it again. Imagine if Cher rejected Gun tonight. There could be career consequences if he said no to the man who controls his job. Even if Gun asks for consent in this moment, their romance has an underlying issue of coercion. 

Gun is irresponsible because he hasn't considered the consequences to Cher's professional reputation. Notice how Cher asks Gun to keep their relationship a secret. He fears the pushback if others discover the intern is sleeping with the boss. "Jack would make it a big deal." It's not just Jack. There are school authorities, future employers, and Cher's online fans. Gun should know better than to jeopardize this young man's career. Gun responds, "You're gonna have to pay me to keep my mouth shut." Yet again, he makes a troubling statement that subliminally pressures Cher.

Episode 7

Episode 7 Review

Gun promises Cher he won't appear in the gaming live stream. Afterwards, he deliberately walks into the frame, putting on a spectacle with his shirtless body. "I'll be waiting for you in bed, Cher," Gun states loudly enough for all the viewers to hear. LOL. His trolling is pitch-perfect. A Boss and a Babe maintains a charming playfulness throughout the series. This scene exemplifies its lighthearted mischief that responds well with fans.

"This is the behaviour of the man who claimed to love my sister!?" OMG, this twerp is annoying~ Part of me understands Thoop still mourns his loved one. His sense of betrayal stems from profound grief. However, his outrage seems over the top, considering Cher deserves to live and move on. Cher has also supported Thoop financially out of an ongoing commitment to Tian. He's clearly not heartless. With that said, I snicker inappropriately at Thoop's scathing one-liner. "Try the new taste all you want." This series can produce some hilariously fierce quips, hehe.

Episode 8

Episode 8 Review

"Can I slack off for a bit?" I'm sorry, but when has Cher done any work since starting this job? His internship involves buying coffee, seducing the CEO, and talking nonsense. The protagonists deserve each other because the worst boss matches with the worst employee. 🙈 Cher doesn't even pretend to act busy. In this episode, he waltzes into his boss' office to take an afternoon nap on the sofa. My expectations for him were low, but holy crap. Is this a legitimate workplace or a vacation resort!?

While other employees do their jobs, Cher and Gun flirt behind closed doors in the office. They also get sloppy and barely hide their affair from colleagues. Even Aoi, a staunch GunCher fan, acknowledges the couple's misconduct. "It feels quite improper at times." Yet, none of the employees dare to confront the sleazy boss. Jack only voices his concerns to Cher instead of Gun. Like the emperor's new clothes, everyone hesitates to speak up about their discomfort, fearing repercussions from the authorities. Gun has created a stifling work culture without transparency or accountability.

Poor Jack faces a tricky ethical dilemma. He struggles with personal and professional boundaries as Cher's friend, mentor, and coworker. Jack sees the positives in the romance, such as Cher's happiness. Yet, he observes harmful consequences, like office gossip, damaged reputations & a demoralized workforce. By speaking up, Jack risks jeopardizing his bond with Cher and may suffer retaliation from Gun. If Jack stays quiet, he's culpable in enabling an unprofessional workplace. Caught between loyalty and integrity, he must navigate a minefield of issues.

Cher is inconsiderate for putting Jack in this dubious position. Due to his pre-existing bond with Cher, others expect Jack to serve as their mediator. Can you tell your friend to stop!? Why haven't you spoken to him yet!? The allegations may escalate. Did you know about their affair all along!? Were you covering up for their misconduct!? In the long term, Cher will damage Jack's credibility and professional standing. Of course, Cher hasn't thought that deeply. He shows no discretion, drawing constant attention to himself. Watch me canoodle with the boss, everyone!

I'm Team Jack, by the way. Even if Cher's internship finishes in two weeks, he should still end the relationship with Gun. My bias is speaking, but I hate Gun and want Cher to break up with him forever. Yes, I realize the irony in my perspective. I'm watching a BL drama while rooting for the leads to end their romance. WTF. *lol* I don't think Gun is an evildoer with malicious intentions. He can be redeemed. Yet, he has behaved problematically enough that I don't support his character or this couple.

Despite scrutinizing all the inappropriate behaviour, I enjoy this episode of A Boss and a Babe. I appreciate the series for creating a complex workplace dynamic with many dimensions to analyze. Gun and Cher's scandalous romance provokes a strong reaction in me, which I prefer over sweet, mild-mannered fluff. I also like the overarching narrative themes. The subplots with Gun & Thyme's feud and Jack & Cher's conflict highlight the perils of mixing friendship with work. This story tackles challenging topics not found in most BL dramas, so I find the ideas refreshing and engaging.

Episode 9

Episode 9 Review

After being accused of an unprofessional relationship, Gun and Cher respond by making a spectacle in the office. As their colleagues watch, Gun drags Cher by his hand. They march into the restroom and make out. Afterwards, the couple spends their workday on the company rooftop, flirting instead of working. I'm flabbergasted. Rather than reflect on their misconduct, they continue engaging in affection and disregarding workplace boundaries. Their behaviour reinforces the perception of zero professionalism or accountability.

The leads cry about feeling persecuted. Oh no, they're judging us! 😢 But it's okay, the public outrage won't destroy our love! 😚 They're missing the point. Their colleagues feel troubled since Gun and Cher blur professional boundaries with personal feelings. The couple can't separate their relationship from their jobs, as shown by treating the CEO's office like a romantic getaway. Their love is disruptive, unproductive, and divisive to the workplace. Yet, Gun and Cher don't look at the bigger picture. They ignore the demoralized workforce and only focus on their desires.

A healthier solution is to show that Gun and Cher can be professional despite their romantic relationship. This episode offers the best opportunity for the couple to recognize their misconduct and correct their behaviour. They should prioritize their work responsibilities, show nonpreferential treatment, and maintain physical boundaries. By displaying workplace competence, Gun reassures the team he's a fair, sensible leader. My love life doesn't affect my job performance. Also, Gun would illustrate that he listens to employees and takes accountability for transgressions.

Another solution is to keep a low profile. Don't make it obvious that your relationship is getting in the way of your work. Cher draws attention to himself whenever he leaves his desk to spend hours inside the CEO's office. Their egregious unprofessionalism incites resentment among other employees. Be more cautious instead of making out openly around the office. If you want to screw the intern, at least have the decency to do it outside work hours. Your discretion makes everyone more comfortable.

The most common-sense approach is to simply stay away from each other. Cher's internship ends in two weeks. That's less than ten workdays at most. Gun and Cher should have the restraint to keep a respectful distance for such a short time. Consider it a tiny break. Once Cher's work placement finishes, you can pursue your romance without further complications. Cher is no longer an employee, removing many of the issues. Keep it in your pants for two weeks. It's the bare minimum that Gun and Cher need to do. Yet, they still remain glued to each other!

Besides seducing the intern, Gun behaves unprofessionally in other ways. He turns the corporate leak into an interrogation. The angry CEO gathers his team in a meeting room to lash out at them. Everyone looks intimidated, even though only one person is culpable. Instead of handling this sensitive matter privately, Gun creates a hostile work environment and talks down to his employees. Thyme was right about him. Gun shows no respect for others, treating them like corporate machines. Thyme may have lost his job, but at least he's free from this toxic friendship.

Episode 10

Episode 10 Review

OMG. The Tian storyline escalated from tragic to horrifying! I was unprepared for the revelation of what Tian's father did to her. How did the plot descend to such a sinister place? Just a few moments ago, I smiled sweetly at Three and Zo's innocent flirtations. Suddenly, the story drops this huge bombshell, making my heart freeze. The series handles the plot poorly, treating Tian's trauma as a scandal than a sensitive topic. Thoop's incarceration is another lousy subplot, adding needless drama.

Gun's mom coming between the couple is an annoying conflict. Instead of the breakup, I want Gun to step down from his job. That's way more epic. Either his mom replaces him as CEO, or he quits in protest. This storyline excites me, opening new possibilities for his character development. I want to see how Gun copes when he isn't the boss. Removing Gun from a leadership position also starts his redemption arc. Many of my issues with Gun relate to his unprofessionalism around employees. He'd be more tolerable as self-employed or working a job that doesn't involve management.

Episode 11

Episode 11 Review

"You love me every time you do me." LMAO. I'm dying at Cher's blunt honesty after sex. Call out those false proclamations of love! Despite finding this boss-intern romance problematic, I recognize the many scenes with cute banter, playful flirting, and saucy seduction. This series is packed with delightful BL content. The entertaining rapport between the boss and the babe is a selling point. Had I been more invested in the couple, I would respond positively to these relationship scenes.

Why does Cher break up with Gun only after his internship is over? It's supposed to be the reverse! Cher should've ended his relationship while working at the company and pursued the romance after leaving. After eleven episodes of discomfort over the sleazy office affair, I finally get to enjoy GunCher as a couple outside the workplace. Instead, they split up over the mom's ridiculous threats. Ugh, this BL series is so misguided and never gets it right. The rest of the episode is a drag, looping pointless drama until the couple's inevitable reconciliation in the finale.

Episode 12

Episode 12 Review

Contrary to expectations, Cher doesn't start dating Gun after his internship. Cher waits until he graduates from university and wins the gaming tournament. After these achievements, he asks to reunite with Gun, who accepts with an iconic kiss. Cher wants to be independent and successful before pursuing this romance. By focusing on self-improvement, Cher replaces his reputation as Gun's intern and becomes his equal partner. The babe is now a boss of his own, establishing himself as a capable individual.

Gun goes on a similar journey of character growth. He started the series as a sad, lonely gay man who feels insecure about his sexuality. With Cher's help, Gun overcomes these mental barriers. During the finale, he is proud enough to kiss his boyfriend before his employees, who gladly cheer him on. He also stands up to his mother and speaks up for his happiness. Best of all, Gun is surrounded by loyal friends. While dancing at the holiday party, Gun projects a demeanour of warmth, joy, and confidence. He is a transformed man, thriving on self-assurance.

Now that Gun and Cher are no longer colleagues, their romance doesn't offend me anymore. I can relax and enjoy their relationship scenes without feeling icky. My favourite exchange is when Gun joked about a marriage proposal. Cher retorts, "We should try dating first. We've been together for less than ten minutes." LOL. Although I find their breakup annoying, I like that Cher was mature enough to wait before dating Gun. Cher works hard to prove he is more than just a ditzy intern. He is determined to be Gun's equal partner, earning the respect of his naysayers.

I have mixed feelings about this drama. One of my conflicts stems from how much I loved ForceBook in their first series, Enchante. I adored the enchanting fairytale romance between the two childhood best friends. By comparison, I don't feel the same spark from them in A Boss and a Babe. I try to force myself to love Gun and Cher, but I cannot connect with them as a couple. All I see is a sleazy office affair, a predatory boss, and unprofessional workplace conduct as the starting point of their relationship.

It's hard to defend Enchante, which has many flaws. After the first few episodes, the plot loses its way and becomes an infuriating mess. I admit A Boss and a Babe is a better BL drama based on the overall quality and entertainment. Yet, Enchante shows moments of brilliance in its love story, resonating with me as a BL enthusiast. Several scenes capture Akk and Theo's longing for each other, highlighting the actors' chemistry. I became a ForceBook fan after watching that series. Sadly, I never experience this sensation from A Boss and a Babe. I may laugh at the jokes, but my heart isn't moved.

Enchante wasn't a well-received series. Fans gave a chilly reception and moved on. In contrast, A Boss and a Babe is more popular with a stronger buzz. Many fans adore GunCher's cheeky antics. I'm so happy the actors can finally enjoy the warmth and support they deserve in their careers. Yet, a part of me is dying on the inside over how this sleazy love story has become ForceBook's breakout roles. If only Enchante was better written, they'd be known as the leads of an enchanting fairytale romance. Instead, their BL careers are defined by a sordid office affair. 😞