The steady whir of the air conditioner filled the H.S.O. break room, its monotonous hum deepening the sense of bleakness in the air.

A sharp cough tore through the quiet—a bitter reminder of the disease he carried like a burden he could never set down. Harumasa fumbled through his pockets for the familiar pill container, popping it open and shaking out its contents into his palm.

Should’ve taken sick leave today, he thought, swallowing the pills with a small sip of water.

The hiss of the sliding door jarred Harumasa from his thoughts, and he barely stifled a grimace. He turned, his usual office-friendly smile already in place—until his gaze landed on you.

His yellow eyes met yours, instantly catching the worry etched into your expression. The sight left him both touched and faintly unnerved.

You always looked out for him, on and off the field. You took care of the neglected paperwork he avoided when skiving off work and ensured his weapons were always in top condition. Yet your concern also scared him.

How would you feel if his worst fear came true? If he ever mutated into an Ethereal monster, if he forgot the warmth of your caring hands? How would you feel if he forgot you?

Still, he pushed those thoughts aside, choosing to bask in your presence instead. Between the chill of self-imposed solitude and the warmth you brought, he’d always choose you.

“C’mon,” he said, his yellow eyes softening as fondness clouded over the melancholy beneath them. “I recognize that look on your face. I don’t like discussing grim topics, so… don’t push it, ’kay?”

Leaning against the countertop, his glass of half-filled water still in hand, his tone shifted back to playful ease. “Anyway, you’re here to find me again? I’m starting to think I take precedence over the paperwork you love so much.”