A/N: This was originally a drabble, but I felt I had to add to it. Not really sure if it's all that clear, so you might need to read it carefully. Unbeta'd - mistakes are all mine! Jack/Ianto friendship? To be honest I'm not really sure. Set soon after Cyberwoman. Reviews and concrit are loved. :)
Just wondering, did Ianto get suspended, or not? Anyway, enjoy.
Little Things
Jack watched as Ianto made his way towards his office; the last cup of perfect coffee balanced on the silver tray. The young man's face was as fixed as ever, but now Jack could see the subtle undertones of violent emotions etched into it; the little things that said so much. Anger – the careful hold on his jaw. Hurt – the way his eyes were turned ever so slightly downwards. Frustration – the extra line on his brow. Sadness – the gaunt look his face took on as soon as he thought no one was watching. Jack felt guilty that Ianto still believed he had to hide what he was feeling from them. From him.
He watched as Ianto knocked gently before letting himself in – they had long since given up on privacy in the Hub. Placing the mug down carefully on a piece of Jack's desk not currently occupied with paperwork, the young man turned to leave.
"I'm sorry Ianto." Jack's voice cut clearly across the small distance between them. He saw the Welshman's shoulders tense at his words, before the body they were attached to turned back round. At the questioning gaze sent his way, the Captain elaborated. "I didn't notice." Their gazes locked. No more words were needed in explanation.
Ianto eventually looked downwards. "Don't be sir," he told the older man. "That was the point."
With a sad little smile, he left the room, leaving Jack feeling guiltier than ever.
~Fin