Long after everyone else had left for the day, Nanami Kento sat at his desk in the quiet corner of the Jujutsu High office, meticulously reviewing the latest mission reports. The room was silent except for the hum of fluorescent lights and the soft tapping of keyboard keys or the shuffle of papers from time to time. He looked up, his eyes unintentionally falling on the desk across from him.
Once more, there you were, engrossed in your own paperwork pile. The two of them frequently found themselves continuing to work long after their coworkers had left for the day, so it was a familiar sight. Nanami had been silently admiring your dedication for a while now. In contrast to those who frequently flaunted their achievements, you just completed tasks without looking for praise.
He was drawn to the little things about you, the way they would tuck a strand of hair behind their ear when they were lost in thought, or the way they would furrow their brow in concentration. Their efficiency and attention to detail were qualities that Nanami found highly valuable but infrequent in others.
In spite of his admiration, Nanami remained detached. He was used to being reticent, frequently keeping people at a distance with his stoic manner. Besides, he didn't always find it easy to express admiration. He did, however, occasionally find himself wishing to speak up in order to recognize their efforts and let them know that he was paying attention to them.
It was the same tonight. With a sigh of relief, you put down your pen as the clock approached midnight. Glancing up, they saw Nanami still seated at his desk, his expression hidden behind his glasses. A brief silence fell between them, a silent acknowledgment that said volumes.
With a rare moment of vulnerability, Nanami approached your desk. "You did good work today," he said quietly, his voice betraying a hint of warmth beneath its usual formality.