Chapter Text
Before Midorima Shintaro realized it, the light was already coming through his office’s window, warming his cold back and reminding him how tired he was. He worked in the academic literature department of the Miracle Company, a big media conglomerate that created all kinds of content, from printed newspapers to internet interviews. Midorima and his coworkers were separated into sections that made the content the company published. Being in the literary department meant he had to constantly review papers destined to be published, sometimes with big book events, but most of the time at a smaller scale. It also meant hours of staring at the computer while sipping coffee and making correction notes.
Yesterday, a well-known writer had called into the office to ask for his services, they had worked before and kept in contact. Midorima agreed, despite his already busy workload, to maintain a good relationship with a possible client. After the clock marking the end of the workday rang, Midorima put aside all his papers and began the painstaking process of going through the article multiple times, pointing out the possible mistakes. At some point in the night, he had stood to get coffee and immediately dropped it on his jacket, so it was now hanging from his personal office bathroom, and he had to spend the rest of the time getting cold, since his office was one of the older ones and the heating system didn’t work properly at night.
Usually, Midorima felt content with his space, it was a medium-size office with wooden floors, a couch for visits, and a bookshelf with glass doors. It contained both texts and his smaller lucky items, it was placed in a way that separated the space for meetings and his desk and computer. It was in one of the old buildings, the first ones made by the company, before being surrounded by the newer, bigger constructions. Everything inside it had that old and solid look. When he had been assigned the office his coworkers had looked relieved it wasn’t theirs, but Midorima enjoyed the quiet atmosphere that came with it being in an older building, it wasn't close to the busy street and he didn’t have any distractions most of the time. Now, however, the fact that the heating wasn’t connected to the new system was making an already bad night into a terrible one.
Closing his eyes, he waited for them to adjust to the brightness of the new morning, moving into the small rays to get at least a little warm. It was too early for his coworkers to arrive, so he still had some time to finish the review before getting back into his usual job. He focused back on the open document, making another note and shifting on the chair to avoid a cramp, and, once he felt his revisions were thorough enough, saved the file and wrote a small message to the person, before attaching the file and sending it.
Relieved, but still tired, Midorima planned on at least going to his apartment to refresh a little before going back to his work, but any plan stopped when he heard steps quickly going through the corridor outside. The sound was unmistakably a pair of high heeled shoes, making the wood creak before stopping in front of his door and opening it without knocking, his pink-haired co-worker stepped in, with her face showing a confused expression.
-Eh? Midochin? How come you are already here? It's very early!
Momoi Satsuki was his co-worker and an old acquaintance, having both graduated from the same middle school. She was in charge of the more “modern” part of the media company, assisting on online matters, and interviewing famous people on her web show “Satsuki’s World”. Midorima heard it was very well received, but he hadn’t had time to watch it for himself. Momoi was dressed in an elegant suit and had her hair arranged neatly as well. She had a bag on her arm, with the logo of a nearby coffee shop displayed. Midorima only had the time to look at her in defeat before she realized that he hadn’t decided to arrive incredibly early, but instead had stayed the whole night at the office. Her words came out fast and stern.
-I told you that was a terrible idea! This place is not made for an overnight stay, you don’t even have a blanket. Also, I’m pretty sure this building is haunted.
Midorima rolled his eyes before standing up to meet her, she looked at him with genuine concern, and awkwardly patted his shoulder, making him sway a little. She waited for his retort, but he didn't give one, so she continued the conversation.
-As much as I feel you deserve it, I didn't come here to scold you, I have another reason. I was planning on leaving you a note and a snack for when you arrived, but since you are here, I might as well ask.
Midorima started to get suspicious, Momoi looked pretty concerned about asking the favor, which was very uncharacteristic of her, who confidently dragged him into things without really minding his protests.
-You know my interview filming days are usually Saturday mornings, the day before that I meet up with the person I’m interviewing and go through the questions so we have it all ready for the next day. Well, I have one this week, but my boss just asked me to travel to this new event we are opening in another town. But the person it’s coming for the interview today too!, so…- she lowered her voice before continuing - I need you to interview him in my absence.
Midorima let a second pass before saying, in the most serious voice he could use.
-No
-You have to! Please. I have to cover that event, but the artist will think we are unprofessional if we cancel his interview last minute.
-Why do you need me to do this? Your department is full of people that will happily help you.
-I already asked them! They also have to come to the event with me or are already busy with their assigned interviews. I talked with your supervisor and he allowed me to ask you for this. Please.
Midorima sighed, of all the tasks Momoi could have asked for, this was the most annoying. The thought of meeting a shallow celebrity that he had never heard from before was unappealing. Between canceling their interview, and having Midorima do it, it seemed like a lose-lose situation. Yet, Momoi looked so hopeful, and she was clearly under a lot of stress. Midorima knew she took her job seriously, she also knew him, and it was clear she wouldn’t be asking if she had other options. Rubbing his temple, where a headache had started to form, he looked at her.
-... fine- Midorima said, resigning.
Momoi smiled with relief and took a folder from her purse before handing him the bag she had in her hand.
-Great! He’s coming in about an hour, the questions are in the folder, just write some notes about it and clear things up if he doesn’t understand something, he just needs to be ready for tomorrow and I’ll take care of it. The box has drinks for both of you, plus a box of pastries to share. Thanks again, I’ll repay you, I swear!
And with a twirl, she was off, leaving him alone to realize he didn’t have any time to go home and change before the soon-to-be interviewed appeared. He rushed to the bathroom to splash water over his face, he was able to put his jacket back on at least, he cleaned his glasses too. He hoped the slight shadow of stubble wouldn’t be too noticeable in the soft light that covered his office, but there wasn't any way of hiding the dark shadows under his eyes. He asked a member of the cleaning crew that was currently sweeping outside for a broom so he could dust the floor, and collected the papers scattered all over his desk, placing them neatly on one of his drawers.
Just after he finished putting everything in order, new steps appeared outside, and a soft knock preceded a singsong voice saying hello. Midorima stood straight and asked him to come in, the first thing he saw were bright orange eyes.
The celebrity turned out to be a young guy, or at least he looked younger than Midorima, but he wasn't good at guessing ages. He had tan skin and black hair. He was wearing a simple hoodie and jeans with sneakers, nothing like the flashy clothing he would expect from an artist. He also looked tired, his dark eyebags mirroring the ones under Midorima’s eyes.
Great, they were both exhausted, he already knew this was going to go well.
He saw him turn around to speak to someone, his manager, perhaps, before closing the door and walking towards Midorima. Despite working for a pretty popular company, Midorima wouldn't have said that he knew many famous people, most of his contacts were old professors or just graduated scholars taking a shot at getting published, therefore, he didn't even know what the guy did to be famous, Momoi hadn't told him either.
-Welcome to the Miracle Company, I will be preparing you for the interview tomorrow - Midorima, didn't know how people from the entertainment department greeted their guests, so he fell back into his default greeting.
Unexpectedly, the guy didn’t answer with either arrogance or shyness, both expected reactions when it came to new celebrities, and instead formed a half-smile while whistling.
-I thought this place was going to look completely different! The entrance was all fancy-like, and the girl that talked to my agent was there too, but all of a sudden we are making our way into this old building.
Midorima was irked, he couldn't understand the tone the guy used, was he complaining? Or mocking the place? Perhaps it was a subtle way of telling him he felt offended they made him come to this old building.
-Well, I’m sorry this doesn’t meet your expectations- Midorima said coldly- I assure you we can make this quick so you can go back.
The artist seemed surprised by Midorima's curtness and replied with his smile lessening.
-Oh, I didn’t mean anything bad by it - He waved his hand dismissively - I like this building, I was getting tired of the white conference rooms with glass tables in the middle.
Midorima could visualize the rooms he was describing, the modern building had many of those, and their fluorescent lights tended to give him headaches, so he spent as little time as possible there. Realizing he didn’t mean to offend, and not wanting to sour the mood, he pulled back the coldness in his voice and spoke again, carrying the conversation back to the main topic.
-Perhaps you might be able to explore the place afterward if you like, but at this point, I think we should start with the interview questions.
The guy approached him and bowed.
-I’m Takao Kazunari, I’m from the Hawk’s Talent agency, and I’m releasing my first ep pretty soon.
Midorima presented himself as well, avoiding mentioning that he wasn’t part of the celebrity side of the company, it was too long for an explanation, and it could make the agency look unprofessional.
-Shintaro… Midorima…- Takao looked at him with curiosity -I feel like I’ve seen you before.
Midorima looked back with irritation, he couldn't think of any place where they would have crossed paths. Takao looked amused, like he knew that was exactly what Midorima was thinking.
They sat down on the couches at opposite sides of the coffee table, where the drinks and food Momoi had brought stood. The couches were old and bulky, Midorima was already used to them, but Takao slowly sank, swallowed by the furniture, awkwardly trying to go back to a sitting position without bringing too much attention to his efforts. Midorima handed the paper cup to Takao, doing his best to ignore his struggle. Takao stretched so he could take it with both hands.
Midorima didn’t have any idea how to start a casual conversation with a famous person, so he directed his eyes to the list. To his chagrin, it didn't have any sort of base introduction, just a simple list of questions, he started reading them before Takao had time to try to fill the awkward silence with small talk.
-Well, the first question here is: Why did you decide to become an artist?
Takao looked at the coffee with concentration before responding, Midorima assumed he had pre-planned answers, but that didn’t seem to be the case.
-Well, I was pretty active in high school, and I’ve always been involved with events with lots of people. I used to attend tons of concerts and festivals too! After I graduated I didn't know where to go for college, so I just spent my time attending those sorts of events and working a part-time job. In one of those they had a table outside with people recruiting, so I signed up on a whim.
Midorima frowned, he didn't approve of the idea of choosing a career path on a whim. He wondered if it was appropriate for Takao to say stuff like that to the public, wouldn't it make him look bad? Never mind that, it wasn't his business. He wrote, “Choose on a whim” on his notepad. When he looked back at Takao, he had a small smile on his lips.
-It was less of a talent agency than more of some sort of training camp, there were plenty of people so I didn't expect to get picked, but I got interviewed and I guess they liked me enough to choose me! We had some training classes and then they had me record some cover songs and upload them online.
Takao had resigned to the couch and was now more laying down than sitting, he had his coffee carefully held and gave it a sip while Midorima wrote.
Midorima scribbled quickly on his notepad, before going back to the list. He silently thanked Momoi for being more thorough in this part, she had included follow-up question ideas depending on his answers. Now that he had mentioned the recordings, this was the path Midorima took.
-The cover songs became quite popular, did you expect that?
-Not at all! I was told I had to upload them so the talent agency had access to them for their judging, but one of the friends I made while training shared it, and suddenly I started to get tons of views. The agency was very pleased, and they interviewed me again quickly. They told me it usually takes a long time to be able to do it.
Midorima wrote “lucky” on the notepad, bothered by the easy way Takao had come to be successful, nothing compared to the rigorous way universities test their students.
-Are you originally from here? Or did you have to travel to be able to join the agency?
-My family is from the countryside, but my parents moved when I was little to the city. They moved back home a while ago, but I decided to stay, so when I was selected I didn't have to move or anything. -His face brightened - My apartment is rather close to here! You just have to-
Midorima stopped him, raising a hand in front of him.
-You better stop right there, it would be foolish to disclose more than this.
-Why?- Takao looked at him with curiosity.
Midorima was surprised, was he clueless about personal privacy, or was it an attempt to appear dumb to mock him afterwards?
-You are asking why? Do you usually disclose your personal information to hundreds of strangers?
-Hmm, I don't see the problem, you know. I think people would take it as just more trivia!
Midorima had a look of disbelief.
-How long have you been famous again?
-I started to get popular about half a year ago, but I don't know if that counts as famous, the agency announced it to me just last week.
-Alright, so you are just inexperienced, not stupid.
-Hey!- Takao looked offended for a second, before turning sad. Both of those expressions looked so exaggerated they were probably fake -Why are you calling me dumb?
For a second, Midorima thought he had messed up, if the interview got canceled, it would be his fault. Regardless, now that he had opened his mouth, he might as well keep talking.
-Because there is no way somebody famous doesn't understand why they shouldn't disclose where they live. Takao looked at him, contemplative.
-It would be very easy for any weirdo to show up and do whatever they want to you. Crazy super fans, stalkers, even people who hate you.
-But no one hates me!- Takao was back to smiling -All the interactions with fans I’ve had have been really fun.
Midorima frowned deeply.
-I’m being serious, giving people too much information about you will only lead to problems, there are way too many people that will take any chance to harm you.
-Are you speaking from experience?
-...Sort of, just, avoid giving personal information from now on.
Takao thought for a second -...Alright- he shrugged, not looking entirely convinced, he looked like he wanted to ask him more about it, but Midorima looked at him sternly until he was dissuaded.
Years ago, when Momoi had started her program, the crew had filmed a segment on her apartment. Unbeknownst to them, one of the shots showed the view from outside the balcony, it only took a few days for random guys to start appearing on the ground floor, and leaving increasingly concerning letters on her mailbox. She had to move.
Takao's lukewarm response didn't give Midorima much hope he had listened, but then, he remembered, it wasn’t any of his business, and went back to the questions.
-What did you specialize in once you were chosen by the agency?
Takao, who was looking at some point in the distance, focused back on Midorima, he took another sip and thought about the question before speaking. The previous scolding had not deterred his enthusiasm one bit.
-When I was in school, I was interested in all sorts of stuff. So they made me try with different talents. Of course, since music was the thing that made them pay attention first, that is my main job, but I will keep attending dance and acting classes because it would be fun to participate in those projects as well.
Midorima annotated Takao’s answer, he saw him peeking with interest at the notepad, with his neck stretched. He moved it away.
-Can you disclose what themes your upcoming ep is about?
Takao forgot about trying to casually sit upright on the couch. He stomped hard, making Miodrima flinch. He lifted his body and sat on the edge of the sofa, his eyes looking bright.
-They allowed me to write about anything I wanted, and then, I and the team went over it so we could polish it. I wanted my first single to make quite an impact, so I used my memories of school for it.
Momoi had written something after this question, the copy the agency was using to promote the music: “Feel the energy of youth flowing through the air, let your feelings float freely while listening to this energetic ep, the debut of our new star: Kazunari Takao”
Midorima thought this was rather vapid, the careless way it was written didn’t explain anything about any of the songs. It was directed towards young fans and people who would consider themselves rebellious, eyeing Takao, he noticed he had a couple of earrings on each ear. His image resembled the troublemakers he knew in his youth, the sort of people he didn’t interact with. He expected the songs to sound like the sort of music that that sort of people used to listen to as well.
-How did you prepare for this release? Do you have any sort of makeover In preparation? Or maybe your style already suited what the team was going for?
Takao blushed at this question, making Midorima immediately regret asking it. Perhaps it was too personal to ask something like this. But he imagined this sort of detail is what the public loved to hear about, so that’s why that was here.
-I did! They came to my apartment and went through all of my clothes, and my, eh, bath products and stuff... -the blush deepened- and showed me different styles that matched the style we were going for.
As he thought, this was very inappropriate to disclose, strangers had no business learning about someone's bath products, he made sure to make a note about it in the notepad, maybe Momoi could avoid further embarrassment for tomorrow. The idea of strangers going through his things didn’t appeal to Midorima either, whether they were paid for it or not. But he supposed it was part of the compromises one had to make to become famous.
-We landed on something comfortable but with some sort of edge, I had a lot of workout and leisure type clothes already, so they got me similar pieces, with small details, I also got to keep my old clothes too! But I’m not allowed to wear those while at work.
The room became silent while Midorima wrote, about how part of being famous was also allowing people to dress you up like a doll.
-Please don’t write that last part, it sounds like something that could get me in trouble.
It seems like Takao had considered what was appropriate to share with the public at least. Midorima agreed, he supposed Momoi could tell him what he should mention and what to avoid, but she wasn’t there to guide him. He wrote it under the notes “it would be prudent to not mention this”
-Can I tell you something?
Midorima raised his eyes from the paper. Takao took his silence as an agreement.
-I had some reunions with the people from the agency beforehand, but, you know, I can’t truly tell what they are expecting from me. - he twisted his fingers around -They told me I should be genuine, but also consider my answers inappropriate. It’s hard for me to see where the line is between being a real person, and being appropriate so I don’t look bad to the public. You have more experience with this, do you know any tips?
Midorima certainly didn’t have any experience with this, most of his clients weren’t the type to amass multitudes, but he guessed he could talk from common sense.
-I assume they want you to come off as authentic so you can connect with the listeners, but they still want you to be above a certain line because you shouldn't be approachable.
-Approachable?
-Being famous is a fantasy, something regular people can aspire to be, you have to be relatable so they think they can also be famous, but still, maintain the idea that you have something special that makes you better than them.
-But that doesn't feel genuine anymore
-It doesn’t, but that is what is expected of celebrities
For once, there was no venom in Midorima's voice, he understood why this was expected, but it was pleasant to see Takao also didn't like the idea. Momoi talked about her own experiences with famous people while at lunch. Some of them were very rude, but most of them left a nice impression. Momoi said that nearly all felt rather empty once they weren't following a script. He wondered if Takao would also become empty once he has more experience with fame.
-Momoi will have more insight for you tomorrow, she would be of more help than me.
-You were helpful!
Takao’s hands raised with emphasis like he expected Midorima to feel bad because he wasn't thoughtful enough. He found this notion ridiculous since it was obvious to him he didn't have enough information to offer, therefore, that was the best he could do. He didn’t make any comment, fearing that delving more into this topic would only lead to being exposed as an inadequate interviewer. He just went back to reading the list.
-Is there any plans on playing the songs live?
Takao looked like he was expecting them to keep talking without following the list, but realizing that wasn't happening, answered the question.
-¡Yes! I can't tell you the dates, but I will be appearing soon at some event whose name I also can’t give you.-
Takao looked mischievous, Midorima wrote about it without saying anything, this was the part where Momoi may act excited and stuff, but there was no reason to show interest that he didn’t feel, that would only create expectations he didn't have a plan to fulfill.
Looking down, he realized he had gotten to the last question.
-Do you have any messages to share with your fans?
Takao’s voice contained a bit of disappointment, maybe he was expecting Midorima to ask for more details, but he composed himself before talking.
-I do! Thank you so much for your support so far! I hope you continue to keep up with this new project! I have lots of stuff to share with you soon!
Takao maintained a smile while saying all of this, but it dropped as soon as he was done. It sounded like a rehearsed answer, the tone of his voice was flat like he had said the words over and over again. An uncomfortable silence filled the office. Takao placed his empty cup on the table. Midorima didn't have an answer to Takao’s words, he neither encouraged him as a reporter would nor expressed his real thoughts: that he looked more tired by the moment. And if he answered like that tomorrow he would leave a bad impression. Instead, he exhaled with relief after making the last annotations, it didn't last much tough. Placing the paper on the table revealed a smaller one, in bright pink. With more questions on it.
Midorima realized what it was. Those were Momoi’s impromptu questions. When she had an interview with a very famous artist she let it slip that she was dating another very famous person. The moment, caught on the live interview, was quickly noticed by people and shared millions of times. Ever since then, Momoi had a series of rapid-fire questions designed to catch the attention of the public centered around the artist's personal life. They gave the illusion of being authentic, but they were almost always preplanned to gain more publicity. He glared at them, wondering if he had to ask them or if they were only meant for her, he assumed that, since they were included in the package, he was expected to ask them too. The questions were way more invasive than the generic ones, and were separated into upcoming music, tv appearance, upcoming movie, marriage and others.
Midorima realized this list was incredibly invasive and uncomfortable to ask, he had no idea how someone got the nerve to inquire about things like this without being close to the celebrity beforehand, this is why he wasn’t any sort of reporter. Exhaling with resignation, he spoke the first question before he could stop himself.
-Are you seeing someone?
Takao, who was focusing on the roof, trying to ignore the uncomfortable atmosphere, was caught off guard. When he looked at Midorima, he looked flustered, before regaining composure.
-Why? Are you trying to ask me out?- Takao placed his hands on his cheeks.
It took a few heartbeats for Midorima to understand. Takao didn’t know they were still going through questions, he had seen him place the paper down. So he was assuming this was Midorima’s very clumsy way of either finding stuff for him to gossip or sell to a tabloid or even worse, his attempt at flirting.
-N-no, that is not what I meant- Midorima raised his voice before leveling it again. He flipped the card so Takao could see the questions.
-It’s just this thing that Momoi likes to do- I mean, we like to do.
Midorima stopped when he saw Takao looking at him with curiosity. There was a chance he was going to be angry if he found out Midorima was a replacement, but since they were almost done, it didn't matter that much. He decided to tell him the whole story. Takao was silent for a bit before answering.
-I knew it!- Takao pointed at him -There is no way you are part of a web show.
Midorima looked offended, expecting him to explain. Takao looked like he wanted to laugh.
-I mean, we aren’t even in the building I was told we are filming the interview in, so we have completely skipped checking if the lighting and sound are correct for tomorrow. You also just took notes, when people do interviews, they usually record the conversation on their phones too, it gives them more to work with.
Midorima didn’t know phones could do such a thing.
-Don’t take this the wrong way, this was very nice, you allowed me to talk my heart out without interruptions, I've met other people and they kept stopping me mid-sentence so they could get an answer they like. -Takao was eyeing the questions now.
-But I did feel like I was giving an oral report as well. Your face doesn't give away what you thought of me, so I felt I was going to get a grade in the end.
Midorima frowned. Takao laughed again.
-Right now, I expected you to yell something reprobatory, just like a teacher!
Midorima frowned more.
-Well, I am glad you considered my work satisfactory.
He took the notepad from the desk before Takao could read his comments about him, and put it inside the envelope Momoi had provided. He expected the sternness in his voice to stop the laughs, but they only increased.
-I was supposed to continue with the other questions, but I don’t think you will have a problem with those. I hope the interview was at least adequate.
-It was a good interview! A little cold but very nice considering it was your first time.
There he was again, attempting to make Midorima feel better about something neither of them could improve. It was infuriating.
-Frankly, I don't care if it was good or not. The interview is done, and you will not have to talk to me again afterward.
This stopped Takao’s amusement, he looked confused about Midorima’s irritation.
-But I want to keep talking, I meant it when I said it was nice.
-Sorry, but I don't see the point in continuing this. You are ready for tomorrow, and I have more work to do.
-The “point” would be to be friendly to each other.- Takao didn't look hurt by Midorima’s coldness, his half-smile was back. -Because having conversations with people you like is nice, even when they don’t have a goal at the end.
-People you like? We don't know each other, and, from the answers in this interview, we have nothing in common. I don't think we would be friendly to each other in other circumstances. And, as I have said before, likely, we will never see each other again.
-But I want to.
-Want what?
-To keep talking.
Midorima shook his head in frustration, Takao wasn't listening to reason. And since snapping at him didn't work either, he chose to be composed.
-I'm glad you enjoyed this interview, but, as I have said, I am busy at the moment, and I don't have time to have a conversation with you. I can walk you back to the building if you want.- He started to stand before Takao could retort.
Takao looked happy despite Midoirma’s dismissal, he didn't say anything, but he put his hand over his. Midorima was startled by the sudden touch, none of his coworkers were the sort of people that touch each other casually, at least, none of them touched him casually. Takao noticed he had frozen on the spot, and quickly retrieved his hand.
-Are you sure you are busy? My team cleared up my schedule so I’m free all day, and I don’t have any plans. I was hoping you could show me around this building? We don't have to talk while walking. And you said we could so that once the interview was over. I wasn't lying when I said I thought this place was cool.
-I said you could look around, not that I had to be involved.- Midorima stood up. -You are free to walk through the place. My door isn't locked, so you can leave now, all of the public places don’t have locks either.
Midorima turned before seeing Takao’s face. Was he disappointed? Or glad he was allowed to wander around even without him? Since it sounded like all he wanted was a distraction for the day, it didn't matter as long as he had something to do. Midorima almost suggested that instead, he should just go back home and take a nap, since he looked so tired, but stopped himself. Takao didn’t say anything while Midorima walked back to his desk to place the envelope and retrieve his phone, which had been lying there, forgotten this entire time.
-You have a flip phone!?
The sudden exclamation made him jump. Takao was behind him, he had moved silently and was peeking over his shoulder with surprise in his eyes. Midorima ignored his question and walked some steps apart. The phone only had one message, from his superior.
-Momoi Satsuki talked with me about the interview. I have taken the liberty to clear up your schedule today so you can finish this task properly. Be sure the guests leave feeling content and with a good opinion of our company. You will be free to continue with your other tasks on Monday-
No wonder he had no interruptions while the interview was ongoing. He exhaled, reading between the lines of the message “You better treat this guest properly or I will give you enough work you won't see the sun all weekend”. Once, a pompous author had arrived. Without an appointment, mind you. and demanded Midorima clean up their manuscript. He only had to glance at a few pages to know the writing was too amateur for any sort of publishing company, so that’s what he told the stranger. Later, the boss reprimanded him, since the person ended up being the child of one of the upper-rank directors, and had been told by their “papa” they could use any of the lower-ranked editors for free labor, his manager looked annoyed as well, but also had the tone of someone who knows they couldn't do anything about the situation. If Takao went and complained about his behavior, his punishment would be way worse than at that time.
He turned around, facing Takao, who had walked back and was in the process of picking up his phone and a pastry from the coffee table. He stopped midway when Midorima encountered his eyes, looking guilty, like he was expecting Midorima to start yelling at him.
-You can take all of those if you want.
Takao relaxed and reached for the container, with a pleasant expression now on his face, and stood back up, idly waiting for him to say something. Midorima exhaled and spoke as it pained him to go back on his previous statement.
-You said you wanted to see the building. Come with me, I’ll show you around.
Takao smiled in disbelief, hugging the pastry box and turning his face to one side.
-I thought you didn’t have time?- His tone was taunting
-Turns out that I do, the boss's order is to keep you entertained.
-You make it sound like I’m someone’s kid you have to entertain.
Midorima looked at him like he was considering if it was appropriate to point out how many of Takao's qualities made him kid-like but decided to not comment about it. He walked past the couch with Takao following behind and opened the door with more force than necessary. He glanced at the corridor, the doors of his coworkers were all closed, and some of them had their lights turned on, but the building was silent. The person Takao had talked with before the interview wasn’t there anymore.
-Oh, Masaaki san has left - Takao also looked around, before checking his phone - He sent me a message, he is taking a break in a tea shop right now.
Takao pressed the camera app and snapped a photo of himself with it, Midorima instinctively stepped away from him. Then he saw him move his fingers with agility over a screen that had no buttons, before turning it off and holding it at his side. Seeing Midorima looking at him curiously, he spoke.
-I sent a message to show him I didn't run somewhere in his absence.
Midorima had the urge to tell him again that that was something a kid would do, especially since it sounded like it had happened before, but, afraid of repercussions, he focused instead on the phone that he held. It was one of the newer models, with a wide, shiny screen and no buttons, it had a little bird charm hanging from it. Midorima didn’t understand how someone used a phone like that.
In turn, Takao focused his eyes on Midorima’s phone, an old school flip phone, simple and black, without any phone charms or even scratches, Midorima held it higher, anticipating his comments.
-Yes, it’s a flip phone, yes, it does work. And no, I see no reason to change a perfectly good phone for one that has no buttons. - he had held this sort of conversation many times already and heard the teasing comments coming from other coworkers about it.
He started walking before Takao could answer, he heard his steps approaching before Takao appeared at his side, easily catching up to his rhythm.
-I haven’t seen one of those in years! I had no idea they were still making them.
-They aren’t, I’ve had it for years
Takao whistled, impressed, moving his phone between his hands. -I bought this phone with my first paycheck, it was the first thing I thought of getting, it made me realize what I was doing was legit. That this was a real path I could take.- He blushed, it was the first time he was the one initiating the conversation.
Midorima was kind of impressed, he had done the same, after being paid for his first editing job out of college, he went and got a phone after the author suggested it as a way of keeping communication and getting more clients. The writers that contacted him on it by the first author's recommendation showed him his skill was valuable and something he could work on.
Takao must have misread his expression as disbelief because he looked at him teasingly.
-Don’t look at me like you are surprised! I know it sounds cheesy.
Midorima avoided giving him an answer by walking past the reception area, where a secretary worked hidden by a big computer screen, onto the other side of the building, closed by a set of large double doors. Midorima opened them after dislodging the small latches that connected them to the floor, the inside was reminiscent of a school cafeteria.
The dining hall was big and empty, with multiple tables placed evenly over the floor, and chairs that occupied the far back wall, the glass windows were covered too, making the room very dark. Takao walked with hesitation and stopped in the middle. He looked back at Midorima, who was still standing by the doors.
-It looks like a haunted room you could find in an RPG!- His voice bounced off the walls.
-Well, it hasn't been used in almost 10 years, it's not going to look pretty.
Takao walked past the tables, went behind the counters, and opened drawers, Midorima followed in silence, realizing he was as curious as an actual kid, and avoided the cobwebs that hung from the ceiling. He put a hand in front of Takao before he could open one of the big refrigerators in the far back. He jumped, startled.
-Why did you do that for!- He put a hand on his chest.
Midorima was annoyed, unimpressed by the exaggerated reaction, who else was expecting Takao to appear but him.
-Because I think it would reflect poorly on me if I allow you to get bitten by some animal.-
Midorima moved his head, beckoning Takao to walk back to the hall. Takao huffed but jumped again when a big spider crawled on the wall, then he started to walk. Midoirma resisted the urge to say “I told you so”.
Having calmed down, Takao spoke.
-Why does this place look like this?
-This building was the first one made by the company, the workers used to all have offices here. But when it got bigger and they chose to keep constructing buildings, they moved the food court to the central building and closed this one.
-Hmm, but why is it still closed, don't they need the space for something?
-Not really, the only use I can think of is as storage, and we have plenty of space for that too.
Midorima realized this was the first conversation they had that wasn't charged with awkwardness. It was also the first time he had encountered someone who listened with interest. Takao placed his hand on one of the tables and stared at him, in the silence that followed, they could hear steps on the roof, followed by a small chuckle.
-What was that?-
Midorima frowned, conflicted about how to answer, balancing his options.
-Would you believe me if I told you it was nothing?
Takao had an incredulous smile that disappeared quickly.
-It wasn't a ghost, right?
-Something like that.
-S-something like that!?
Midorima was amused, maybe the ghost rumor would help in this situation, judging by how pale Takao went. He stayed silent, closing the door again once Takao was out. But his amusement didn't last, since the next time he looked at him, Takao's face was showing another expression, a challenge.
-We should go investigate that!
Knowing it would be useless to oppose him, Midorima followed Takao up the stairs that led to the second floor, placed in the middle of the reception. It was just as old-looking as the first one, the dark wood floor was clean but unpolished, and the corridor separated in two, leading to the two sides of the building.
-This one leads to more offices- Midorima pointed at one of the corridors- And this one goes to the old dressing rooms, in the far back, there is an old conference room.
Takao approached the dressing rooms slowly, making the floor creak, and tried the first doorknob. It didn't move.
-Why are they closed? You told me everything was unlocked.
-They aren't locked, just stuck. These doors have not been opened in years, the whole locking mechanism is rusted.
Takao pushed harder then, and with a loud bang, the door opened. Midorima waited for someone to rush to see what the huge noise was, but no one did. Takao entered the room without waiting for him to say anything. Midorima peeked inside. The dressing room was full of old moldy props and had a big tarnished mirror where Takao was looking at his reflection and had a hand under his chin.
-This looks a lot like the dressing room I have in my agency, but that one has, you know. Less mold.
- I fail to see why you were so interested in seeing this.
-Because it's exciting, we may even find a treasure.
Midorima huffed, giving everything in the room a glance.
-The most valuable thing here is the wood the floors are made out of. We should get out before you catch some sort of infection. Takao smiled teasingly, approaching him.
-I appreciate that you are so concerned about my well-being, but I still want to go to the one that is directly under the dining room.
Midorima scoffed, walking away. He didn't want to be reprimanded for getting Takao sick, it had nothing to do with being concerned over him. Takao walked past him with his face hidden, Midorima imagined he had an arrogant smile he was hiding. He stopped in the middle of the corridor, counting the doors, and visualizing which one was over the dining room. He tried it, but it didn't open; he pushed it again, but this time it didn't even move. Looking closely, the lock on that door was different, it was clean and new.
-What about this one?
-What about it.
-Something is going on here. Right?
Midorima’s face didn't show any concern.
-I have no say on what the company chooses to do with its property, nor am I informed about what changes they implement.
-But it's weird! Aren’t you curious about it?
-Not really, I’m sure there is a good reason.
Takao sighed, frustrated, turning the doorknob again to no avail. Midorima answered, anticipating his words.
-There isn't a way to get keys for this, no.
-Fine… But if you ever find out, would you tell me?
-...Sure
He followed Takao as he walked to the conference room, which didn't have a door, and glanced inside. It was completely bare, with just the lighter parts of the floor showing there was furniture there at some point. Takao walked away, uninterested, and stopped on the metal fence that guarded the stairs that went into the roof. It didn't have a lock and moved with difficulty and noise. The stairs weren't made of wood, but cement, and had cracks, but felt solid. The door to the roof was also made of metal and had a key on the lock, so he opened it.
The roof was big and barren, the cement floor was even and rugged, and the half walls had peeling paint and were topped by a rusted railing, covered with wild plants. An old sun-bleached table and chairs rested on a corner, they looked like they would break if any sort of weight was put on them. Takao walked around, breathing the fresh air that circulated, the sun was in the center of the sky, signaling the middle of the day, Midorima was surprised that much time had passed. Takao leaned on the rail, unbothered by the rust that was touching his clothes, and exhaled.
-This place has a beautiful view.
Midorima stood beside him, not touching anything. He could see far away from the roof, the main building, triple the size of the one they were in. The filming studio, not tall but wide, at the side, with parking spaces for the equipment vans and buses. They could see the gates to get to the company, as well as other office buildings about the same size as the one they were in. Takao pointed to one of the small streets that lined the one that led to the company. He tilted his head towards Midorima, who tilted too, in reflex.
-If you take that street and turn to the left in the cross, you'll get to my apartment complex.
Midorima jumped back, frowning again.
-I told you you should not disclose personal details to strangers.
-But you aren't a stranger anymore.
-Barely, why would you think I want to know where you live? You are being naive.
Takao didn't seem dejected by his reaction.
-Come on, you seem trustworthy, Shin-chan~
-Excuse me?
Midorima hoped he had imagined what Takao just said.
-You are not allowed to give me a nickname.
Takao’s smile broadened.
-We aren't strangers anymore! So you get a nickname.
Midorima looked horrified, and Takao laughed.
-You are acting like I just told you I'm a murderer or something. It's really funny.
Midorima put his hand over his temple and moved it in circles, like trying to soothe a headache, that’s when he realized the headache that had appeared in the morning was gone, maybe all that he needed was a distraction and some fresh air. Resigned, he approached the railing again, ignoring Takao’s laugh, and placing both of his arms over it, groaning internally about the rust. Takaos laughter lessened when he mirrored his movements and looked out. They stayed like that for some time, Midorima didn't know how long, before Takao started jumping.
-Heeey! Masaaki-san!
Takao’s voice was so loud he made some people walking outside look up, making Midorima step away to avoid being seen. He saw Takao waving to a figure in the parking lot, whose body posture was stiff when he raised his hand and waved once, before putting a cellphone on his ear. Takao’s phone started to ring.
-Hello~ Yes, yes, I'm done, I will be out soon.- Takao was smiling brightly and making hand gestures to his manager. -Yes, I promise I didn't cause any trouble… okay.
He hung up and looked back to Midorima, who was occupied brushing the dirt from his jacket.
-I have to leave now, I need to do a try-on for the outfits tomorrow. Thank you for the tour, Shin-chan. I hope you watch my interview!
Midorima felt relieved he managed to entertain Takao without causing a fight, mixed with annoyance at the sound of the nickname, and the expectation that he would take time out of his day to watch his interview.
-I'm glad it was up to your standard.- He started to walk back to the door -I can't promise I'll watch the interview. Well then, this is goodbye.
-Hold on!- Takao ran towards him and opened his hand -Can you give me your phone for a second.
Midorima eyed him suspiciously, but since it was their last interaction, he handed it over. Takao took it carefully and opened it before quickly pressing buttons, the phone made a little beeping noise. He gave it back.
-I put my phone number in your contact list, just in case.
-In case of what?
Takao shrugged.
-There is always a chance I have some questions about the interview.
Midorima was confused, they had discussed everything they had to talk about. It took him a bit to realize Takao was making up a bad excuse, but before he could ask about it, Takao was already halfway down the stairs, he looked back again.
-I'm not, by the way.
Midorima looked at him, more confused. So Takao chuckled and continued.
-Your question, back in the interview, about if I was seeing someone. I'm not~
He walked away before Midorima could say anything.