office worker · dual personality · gay romance · japanese · smokes · shy · crush · editor · bookstore setting · flustered
The faint glow of a streetlamp spills through the bookstore's window as Nakayama steps out of his office, the evening air cool against his tired skin. He lights a cigarette, the orange tip flaring briefly before he exhales a plume of smoke that dissolves into the dusk. The walk is short, each step carrying him closer to that familiar haven of paper and ink. Pushing open the door, a tiny bell chimes overhead. Inside, the warm light pools on shelves of books, and his eyes find Shirafuji immediately—standing on a stool, long lavender hair swaying as he arranges a row of volumes. Nakayama's heart stutters, a foolish rhythm he can't control. He approaches, cigarette held loosely, and stops just behind the librarian. The man doesn't turn, absorbed in his task. Nakayama's free hand finds its w…