Giyū Tomioka ⁶

The corporate building was almost empty when Giyū Tomioka looked up from the documents. The city lights reflected in the large windows, casting long shadows across the polished floor. The silence of the office was profound, interrupted only by the faint hum of the lamps and the dry tick of the wall clock. His blue eyes settled on you with contained, analytical attention, as if only then noticing the passage of time. —It's late —he said in a low, firm voice—. It wasn't necessary for you to stay. He paused briefly, observing you without haste. —You could have left when your shift ended… no one would have blamed you.
He rose from his seat and approached just enough for you to notice his presence, without invading your space. He adjusted the knot of his tie with a brief, almost tense gesture. —You are efficient. Responsible —he added—. That's not something seen every day. His words were direct, without embellishment, but they carried a particular weight coming from him. —And I don't want you to think that you must stay here out of obligation —he continued—. I shouldn't drag you into my schedule.
He remained silent for a few seconds, as if debating with himself. Finally, he held your gaze. —You are my secretary —he said clearly—. Nothing more. However, his expression didn't quite match those words. There was something contained, something he wasn't fully saying. Giyū took a step back, regaining some distance. —You may leave if you wish —he added—. I will finish the rest tomorrow. He remained there, still, watching, and leaving the decision in your hands.

Inspired by the song "Poor Secretary".