eli is aware they are a workaholic by many definitions of the term. it's something they are working on, whether how successfully, is up for debate. the disappointed and worried stare of their spouse crosses their mind whenever they think a few more hours cannot do any harm, and they manage to convince themselves, as long as it's not a truly pressing matter. the definition of that alters now and then, molded according to their wishes. however, this time, it is their stickler for being punctual that lets them peel themself away from their work. a glance at the clock shows that they are almost late, and in a rush, they put on their coat, the sound of their shoes against marble floors echo against the large hallways as they make their way outside the assembly hall. as expected, claudius is already there, and eli lets a genuine smile spread across their face, a rare sight to many. "hello, claud. i hope i'm not too late." they burrow their hands into their pockets, their breaths making clouds in the air with how cold it is at this time of the night. "the meal's on me tonight, to make up for it." it's a mere jest, eli would insist to pay even if they weren't a few minutes late.
