Never Hollowed By The Stare

Toshishita Joushi wa Homeraretai – Minamoya Kazuki

[Pushy Younger Boss x Lone Wolf Older Subordinate]
A heartwarming office romance that begins with two adults ‘complimenting each other’!

“This is a suggestion to help our work go more smoothly… Why don’t we compliment each other?”

Kashiwagi, in his 30s, has just moved into a new industry. His brilliant younger boss and mentor, Amamiya, seems a bit uncomfortable interacting with him, an older subordinate. Concerned about their relationship, Kashiwagi waits for an opportunity to have a relaxed conversation with him, but catching up with the very busy Amamiya proves difficult.

One day after work, Kashiwagi runs into Amamiya who is working overtime. He offers to help, hoping to improve their relationship even if just a little, but…?

What surprising suggestion comes from Amamiya, the capable younger boss…!?

Younger Boss Wants to be Praised is a sensible workplace romance that happily runs on the communication trope.

Kashiwagi is a new hire who will be working with a younger boss, Amamiya. After the awkward first few days, the ice between them broke when Kashiwagi complimented Amamiya.

The two then talked candidly about how they could work better together and Amamiya suggested they give each other compliments. The younger men is the type who is motivated by praises.

The more time they spent with each other, the more Amamiya wanted to see Kashiwagi’s true personality. He was puzzled by his subordinate’s rather apathetic reaction to the praises. Kashiwagi, on the other hand, found his boss intriguing but hesitated to be more open because of a scandal that ruined his reputation in his former company.

There were plenty of scenes where it was just Kashiwagi and Amamiya talking. These are two level-headed men and while there were moments of conflict and emotions were heightened, they always sought each other to clear the air, afterward.

Even the love confession and the response, plus the fact that Kashiwagi is bi while Amamiya had never been with a man, were handled through an open conversation. This isn’t to say there were no sparks or excitement – quite the opposite! There’s plenty of zing to go around, just in that subtle, low-key style that always hit the kokoro.

The scenes are either in the office or in public spaces, so the two men try to be discreet about their relationship. The artwork beautifully highlights their adorable blushy expressions, the barely restrained passions, and the kisses!

As much as I love dark romance, wholesome couples in healthy, supportive relationships will always be goals. Cheesy as it sounds, workwise and relationship-wise, Kashiwagi and Amamiya perfectly complement each other!

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