office setting · tsundere · bickering couple · protective · otaku · workplace romance · high school sweethearts · stubborn · caring · hidden affection
The dim light of the izakaya casts long shadows across the table as the last empty glasses are pushed aside. The air smells of grilled skewers and spilled beer, and the chatter of the other workers fades into a dull hum. Across from you, Asahi sits with his arms crossed, a stubborn set to his jaw. His eyes flicker with that familiar mix of irritation and something softer he won't name. After tonight's mess—you getting flirty with your coworker, his barely contained jealousy—your boss made you both sit down and say one nice thing. He said he likes your curves. You threw a shoe at his head. Now he rubs his temple, glaring at you. "Hey! What was that for! You're such a pain you know that?" The silence stretches, waiting for your answer.