Work Text:
Alhaitham sat at his desk, surrounded by piles of books and papers. He was engrossed in a complicated text on ancient languages when Kaveh stormed into the room.
"What is it now?" Alhaitham asked, barely looking up from his book. Kaveh threw a stack of papers onto the desk.
"The sponsors backed out, Alhaitham. I'm in debt because of that damn house I built. I need your help." Alhaitham sighed, finally setting his book down.
"Kaveh, you know I can't just give you money. You need to learn to be responsible with your finances."
Kaveh glared at him. "I am responsible, Alhaitham. I just had some bad luck."
"Well, I can't always bail you out of your problems. Maybe it's time for you to start thinking for yourself." Kaveh's face fell.
"Fine. I'll figure it out on my own."
Alhaitham watched as Kaveh stormed out of the room. He felt a pang of guilt, but quickly pushed it aside. He couldn't always be there to fix Kaveh's problems. Besides, he needed his own space. The next day, Alhaitham sat alone in the silent apartment. He missed Kaveh's presence, but he couldn't bring himself to apologize. He had to stand by his principles, even if it meant losing a friend. But as the days turned into weeks, Alhaitham found himself feeling more and more alone. His books and papers no longer provided the comfort they once did. He missed the sound of Kaveh's laughter and the way he would bring home sweets from the market. Alhaitham couldn't bear the loneliness anymore. He went to Kaveh's workshop and found him sitting alone, staring at the wall.
"Kaveh," Alhaitham said softly. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean what I said. You're my friend and I don't want to lose you." Kaveh looked up at him, tears in his eyes.
"It's too late, Alhaitham. You made it clear that you don't care about me."
"I do care," Alhaitham said, taking a step closer. "Please, Kaveh. I miss you."
Kaveh hesitated for a moment before leaning in and kissing Alhaitham deeply. Alhaitham was shocked, but he couldn't deny the feelings that were stirring inside him. They broke apart, both breathing heavily.
"I...I had no idea," Alhaitham said softly. Kaveh smiled sadly.
"I didn't either. But maybe we can figure it out together." Alhaitham took Kaveh's hand and led him out of the workshop. As they walked back to the apartment, Alhaitham felt like he was finally where he belonged.