I advised a fellow trainee about a wardrobe malfunction and now have a meeting scheduled with HR due to accusations of sexual harassment. Looking for advice as I feel sick with worry.

Hi all,

Made this as a throwaway to protect my identity. Sorry if this isn't really the right place but not sure where else to post and need some advice.

I'm a trainee at a decently sized City firm. Earlier this week, I was walking behind one of my fellow (female) trainees and noticed that their underwear (thong style) was showing above their skirt. She had come out of the bathroom 15 seconds or so before so I imagine she just had noticed.

I thought of ignoring it but then knew she could have been attending a client meeting or similar, so I just ran up to her and said "hey X, sorry to point this out and wasn't sure whether to say anything, but your thong is showing above your skirt". She looked embarrassed but thanked me and readjusted her skirt. We then made awkward small talk before we went in different directions.

I hadn't thought anything more of it until I got an email from HR on Friday saying that I was being investigated for sexual harassment and have been asked to attend a meeting. I am aware that this is what it was about and now feel sick with worry; I have barely eaten or slept this weekend.

There was nothing sexual or suggestive intended by my comments and was trying to look out for my colleague in a professional capacity. I wouldn't say we're particularly close but we get on well and I'd consider her a friend at least. Should I message her to apologise and explain?

I've never been in a situation like this before and extremely worried about losing my TC because of a misunderstanding.