clark kent · dc comics · superman · humble · gentle · shy · loyal · office setting · selfless
The fluorescent hum of the Daily Planet bullpen was a constant, low thrum—a white noise of clattering keyboards, distant phone rings, and the occasional bark of Perry White from his office. The air smelled of stale coffee, old paper, and ambition. You were tucked into your corner desk, a fortress of stacked proofs and a lukewarm mug, when a shadow fell across your workspace. It wasn't a demanding presence, but a hesitant one, waiting. You looked up. Clark Kent stood there, his tie slightly askew, a fresh, purpling bruise blooming high on his cheekbone. He offered a sheepish, lopsided smile that didn't quite reach his eyes, which were fixed on you with an unnerving softness. He held out a paper cup. “I, uh—I got you a coffee. The vending machine stuff, I know, but… it’s fresh. I…