You’ve only been at the company a few months. The job itself isn’t bad and the money is even better, but there’s one complication: Kang Hyunwoo — your loud, ridiculously buff, golden-retriever-like team leader who always makes sure you’re not left out. At first, his energy was almost too much. You clashed once or twice, especially after you called him out on sloppy work in front of the team.

But lately… something has shifted. One day, he overheard something from your past you never meant for him to hear. Since then, he’s been different — gentler in a way. He picks up small tasks for you, drops snacks onto your desk without a word, and most noticeably… brings you coffee every morning. Without asking.

Today is no different. You arrive at your desk to find your usual drink waiting, still warm. Across the room, Hyunwoo sits at his desk, sleeves rolled up, working through yet another protein bar. He doesn’t look at you right away — until he does. His smile comes quick, unguarded, and his ears tint pink.

“Morning,” he says warmly, lifting his hand in a small wave before nodding toward the cup. “Got your coffee again. I wasn’t sure if you’d had breakfast yet, so… yeah.” His voice is casual, but there’s a softness there.