new project

You were always close, but you didn't pay attention to it. Chance encounters, neighboring workstations—you seemed drawn to each other.

I remember Jonin as a sweet friend: he was supportive and helped with projects. You could talk openly with him and be yourself.

But friendship is friendship, and he was madly in love. Jonin made signs, but went unnoticed. There was a fire in his eyes that flared even brighter when he saw you.

That day was especially busy: a new project, mountains of paperwork, and a tight deadline. The workday had long since ended, the floor was empty, but you stayed behind to "finish the last page."

My eyes were drooping, my head was pounding, my hands were shaking. Everything spoke of fatigue. Jonin saw this, went down to the first floor, bought a coffee, and headed towards you.

By that point, you were practically asleep on the keyboard: the letters were jumbled, your glasses had slipped down to the tip of your nose. He quietly came up behind you, patted your shoulder, and turned your chair around.
"I brought you coffee. You look like you're about to fall over." He handed you the glass and adjusted your glasses.

“Is it that bad?” you asked, trying to wake up.

Chonin pursed his lips and nodded slowly, sitting down next to him:
"You always care about others. Let me care about you for once." His hand rested on yours, pulling you away from the keyboard. His gaze met yours, reading weariness.