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Wrong. All wrong. Horrible. Disgusting. Appalling. Worthless.
These words rung in Kavehs head as he remained hunched over his desk, grip tight on his pen. A meeting with a client gone wrong, a man whose words remained tormenting him no matter where he went.
Kaveh had to bare witness to the destruction of the blueprint which he spent hours on, pouring all his love into it. The delicate blue paper was torn to pieces and scattered on the floor. It felt as though his heart was going to explode at that very moment.
How could someone be so cruel? Why would this man resort to destroying his hard work as though it meant nothing? Where were the manners in that man? Was he not taught to effectively communicate with others? Never in his life had he met a man as insufferable as that client.
Not even Alhaitham was that rude despite their disagreements. Alhaitham would never destroy the blueprints he dedicated hours to create, would never speak such belitting words to him in such a way that shook him to his core. Had the scribe said such things to him? Of course, but they weren't meant to hurt him, Alhaitham would make sure Kaveh knew he didn't actually mean such things.
That client though. He wasn't the first nor the last to treat Kaveh in such a way and make him feel inferior. The image of his torn blueprints repeatedly flashed in his mind and all he could think about was how he would have been able to put it together. The pieces were torn much too well, making it impossible for Kaveh to find a way to put it back together.
In a way, Kaveh felt like the blueprint. Torn to shreds with no clear way to put himself back together. Forcing the pieces together was not going to work nor was asking politely for a before and after picture of his creation.
Perhaps Kaveh wasn't just a blueprint but a nebula, tragic as it is. A man who pretended to be whole despite knowing parts of him were missing. So much beauty which he held and yet it didn't help fill the void within him.
What if he wasn't a nebula then, but a black hole? Sucking in all the color from the world and destroying everything in his path. It was as if he were a curse or had been cursed. Destined to forever cause destruction to those around him and never feel whole. It was only a matter of time before he succumbed to it all, lost that glow to himself and faded away from the world until he was no longer seen or noticed.
What an absolute tragedy of a life. To be born a star, the Light of Kshahrewar, only to ultimately explode and become nothing but dust and debris. It was like his room at the moment, nothing but a giant mess with no hope of improvement. He let out a loud frustrated sigh that proved to be a mistake when he heard footsteps.
Great. Just great. His roommate had heard and was now coming to make him feel even worse. He simply remained there at his seat, waiting for the door to swing open and hear the scribe ridicule him. But that moment never came. Sure, the door swung open as expected, but no words were exchanged. It was merely Alhaitham walking in with a plate of food, carefully maneuvering through the mess on the floor.
"You haven't eaten. I made you something."
Was all the man said as he made space on the desk and set the plate down. Kaveh was silent, thinking about what to say when he heard the other sit on his bed.
Oh.
Oh.
Alhaitham. Alhaitham had prepared food for him and brought it right to him, it was such a touching gesture. It only overwhelmed Kaveh because it felt as though the other might truly care for him and it led to him instantly crying alligator tears.
"O-oh Alhaitham! It was horrid! A tr-ue tragedy! He torn up my blueprints and sai-d all sorts of derogatory words!! My hard work reduced to nothing! Why don't people appreciate m-me more?! Why are people like this?! I just... I can't... believe it! I work so hard to please my clients and this is how I'm repaid?! Treated like I'm less than them simply because they have something I want."
The blonde ranted, slamming his fist onto his desk a little too hard, causing his food to almost fall off.
"First of all, careful with the food. I spent quite some time perfectly measuring every last ingredient to ensure I didn't put too much of something. Second of all, calm down. You are greatly admired and appreciated by all. You are just... unfortunate enough to not come across such people very often. Third of all, tell me who it was."
Kaveh glanced at the younger man, more curious to know why he wanted to know who said and did such things to him. His heart was aching, finding it unfair how he was treated by clients but also hating how he submitted to them, giving it his all to create the perfect blueprins only to be rejected.
Kaveh was simply tired of it all. He was so damn tired of rejections, of being just a big people pleaser, of being afraid to stand up for his ideals and only sitting there, being told that his ideas weren't enough. If he didn't need to pay rent, he would have quit this stupid job and find something else to do.
But what else was he to do? His life revolved around architecture, he solely focused on it and didn't explore many hobbies due to his sheer dedication to his profession.
"Ahmar. His name is Ahmar. Though I don't know why you would want to know about him."
Kaveh spoke bitterly as he wiped away the tears quickly. He felt embarrassed for having cried in front of the other but he shouldn't be because he knew Alhaitham would never judge him for that. Sure, they had their heated moments due to clashing opinions but they still deeply cared for one another in their own ways.
"Here's what we're going to do. You are going to eat the meal I prepared for you and get ready for bed. My room tonight, not yours. While you prepare for bed, I will help by cleaning your room a little and will deal with Ahmar in the morning. Try not to worry too much, okay?"
Alhaitham spoke, trying his best to comfort the other in ways he'd read about before. As for why he needed to the know the name, he had some ideas for how to deal with this man. I mean, this wasn't the first time he's done so, and it certainly won't be last. For as long as Kaveh continues to shine with his golden heart, there there will always be those who wish to get a piece of it.
A beautiful man like Kaveh has many admirers and it was Alhaithams duty to ensure no one got a chance to get close to his architect. He'd eliminated quite a few people before who got much too close. This Ahmar man? He was going to get a taste of what the Acting Grand Sage was capable of, for hurting the one he loves most. He shook his head a bit and looked at Kaveh, smiling softly as he was focused on eating.
"I'll be waiting for you in my room. See you soon."
Alhaitham spoke quietly before making his way out, already making plans for morning. He'll think about that once Kavehs asleep in his arms, he was looking forward to it. Soon enough he'll confess and be able to always have Kaveh in his arms, to kiss him anywhere and everywhere, show off his beautiful boyfriend with pride. Sure, he tended to hate such actions, but this was much more different because he's been madly in love with Kaveh for so long. Alhaitham was going to spend the rest of his days flaunting that he was the one to have won Kavehs golden heart.
Once he arrived at his room, he began to ensure everything was nice and tidy so Kaveh would finally be in a cleaner room. Once it was done, he got ready for bed himself and slipped under the covers, laying on the side closest to the door. He knew Kaveh didn't like to sleep near the door, he always needed to be away from it. Oh! He also preferred silk sheets, so Alhaitham bought him a wide variety in his favorite colors with matching pillow cases. A little gift he gave the elder for a commission he took a while back.
Alhaitham absolutely adored his sweet architect and sincerely hoped for the best for him. He let out a little sigh as he turned his reading lamp on, grabbing the book on the nightstand, deciding to get some light reading in before Kaveh came in. Once the blonde was in his arms, drifting off to sleep would be a piece of cake.
"Ughhh... why must people be so ungrateful?"
Were the first words coming out of Kavehs mouth the moment he stepped into Alhaithams bedroom. He rolled his eyes as he shuffled over to the empty side of the bed, taking off his slippers instantly. The blonde immediately slid under the covers and cuddled close to Alhaitham, resting his head on the younger man's chest.
"They simply do not appreciate a single thing I do! Either the height is too tall, the materials required are not to their tastes, the drawing looks off. They're simply wasting my time but I need that stupid Mora..."
He continued on as he got comfortable, letting his eyes flutter shut, simply taking in the youngers scent. It was comfortable, reminded him of... mangoes?
"Do not pay them any mind, Kaveh. People will always be ungrateful, unsatisfied. I'm sure a better project will come along soon. Do not let others push you around and do not let anyone dim that fiery passion within you. Would be a shame for my roommate to lose the spark within him that keeps us going."
Alhaitham spoke, setting his book down to wrap an arm around the elders body. He turned off the lamp and sighed softly, staring at the ceiling for a few minutes.
"Mm... I guess. Though I highly doubt that spark inside me will ever die. I'm the light of Kshahrewar. I have a name to live up to, a name that aids me in getting more projects."
Kaveh replied softly before shaking his head a little. It was getting late, he should go to bed now. A good night's rest would be needed for tomorrow to be started on the right foot. He slowly took one of Alhaithams hands, intertwining their fingers and giving it a gentle squeeze.
"You can let your guards down, Kaveh. I'll make sure no one dares lay a finger on you. Sweet dreams."
Alhaitham muttered, waiting for the sign that Kaveh had fallen asleep before planting a kiss to the top of his head. He was going to keep his word, now and forever, with no hesitation. No one would ever dare lay a finger on his Kaveh, he was going to make sure of that.
Morning did come rather faster than he wanted to, easily awakening the moment Kaveh began to stir, seconds away from awakening. Alhaitham quietly groaned, wishing he could enjoy this warm feeling growing inside him for a little longer.
To be honest, the only motivation for him to get the day started was being able to deal with that man. Well it was, until he tried to get up only to feel the blondes hold grow tighter around him.
"Mmph... wait... not yet..."
The blonde murmured, refusing to let go of Alhaitham just yet. He had a rather tight grip on the younger, just in case he tried to be sneaky and slip away. The younger man slowly smiled as he remained in place, holding Kaveh even closer to himself.
They remained in that position for a bit before Kaveh finally decided to sit up, letting go of Alhaithams hand to stretch properly. He let out a loud whine before sighing out loud, falling back onto the bed. He stared at the ceiling for a few moments before turning on his side to look at the younger man.
"Okay, good morning. Let's get the day started! It's... Friday. So we get to eat out tonight and no, you are not getting away from me this time! We will head out together, you're not allowed to slip away."
Were the blondes first proper sentences as he watched Alhaitham with a little smile. The younger man could almost swear he felt his heart begin to race at the sight. The messy hair, the twinkling eyes, that adoring smile, everything felt so right to him at that moment. He could almost swear that sprout on his head could form a heart at the mere sight of the beautiful blonde.
"Okay... we'll leave the house together this time and every single time from here on out. No more meeting up and risking the other waiting too long. It'll be nice to walk to our restaurant of choice in the evenings."
Alhaitham muttered as he gently moved some hair from the others face, tucking the strands behind his ear in the most gentle manner.
The action made Kaveh let out a happy little sigh, slightly nodding. This moment felt so domestic, like they were a married couple sharing the sweetest of mornings.
"Okay... love you."
Kaveh spoke, not registering his words before getting out bed and heading off to get his day started. All Alhaitham could hear was the sound of the blonde walking away, heart racing as he sat up.
Did he hear right? Had Kaveh said that to him? Maybe he was dreaming still and Kaveh wasn't the real Kaveh but his dream Kaveh.
Meanwhile, Kaveh still hasn't processed his own words, finding them to be rather casual words than something needing attention. See, he had a rather interesting dream when Alhaitham had asked him out and he'd accepted. The dream felt incredibly realistic and tricked his mind into believing it had happened before they fell asleep.
Of course Kaveh was going to instantly be this open with Alhaitham if they were dating. He would open up his heart with no hesitation, allowing for the younger man to see it all.
♡♡♡♡
"Kaveh. We were supposed to leave a while ago. What is taking you so long?"
Alhaitham questioned, standing at the door of Kavehs room with his arms crossed. He was taking his sweet time picking out clothes and accessories still.
"Just... give me a few more minutes."
Kaveh spoke with a soft sigh. He wanted to look really pretty for their first official date. He wanted Alhaitham to only have eyes for him, though the younger man always was watching him whether he noticed or not.
Slowly, he pulled out his favorite pair of black high rise wide leg trousers and a white lace square neck long sleeve top. It had a bow at the center of the chest and was brought all the way from Fontaine.
"Uhm... mind stepping out so I can change?"
"I hope you're aware that as your roommate, I've witnessed you either close to or actually naked many times."
"Alhaitham!! Just step out!!"
Kaveh yelled as his face began to flush a bright red, turning his back to the other. Alhaitham smirked and shook his head as he went to the living room. He loved eliciting such reactions from Kaveh, it was hilarious to him.
It wasn't long before the blonde finally made his way into the living room, humming softly. He had added a few accessories here and there, some bracelets, a necklace, new hair clips.
"Alright. How do I look?"
Kaveh asked, doing a little spin before looking at Alhaitham, a nervous smile appearing.
"Why are you asking me?"
"To get your opinion you moron! If I don't get a compliment I'm going right back into my room and taking my sweet time picking out a new outfit."
"Alright. I think you look... pretty."
"Seriously?! You're like a walking dictionary and pretty is all you can get out? Whatever, I'll take it. Pretty must be your highest compliment anyway."
Kaveh spoke whilst adjusting his clothes before grabbing his keys, sliding them into his pocket. He was going to not lose his keys tonight by keeping them as close as possible.
"Well, I strongly believe that if people were to pay you based on your looks, you would be the richest person in all of Teyvat. I also believe you belong in a portrait considering how beautiful you are. You have the brains and the looks which is stunning. There. Is that what you wanted?"
Alhaitham spoke, not once daring to look at the blonde in the eyes. Those words came from the heart, words his grandmother also told him of once when speaking of his grandfather.
Judging by the fact Kaveh had now fallen silent, he was content with the words. Now that that was done, Alhaitham got up from the sofa and did a little stretch.
"Alright, let's go."
He spoke, opened the door and letting Kaveh step out first before following after. Once he was sure the door was locked, Alhaitham began walking in the direction of their usual spot.
"Uhm... so... how was work today?"
Kaveh asked quietly. Now that he was convinced he was dating Alhaitham, he wasn't too sure how to talk to him. Usually he'd be speaking in his usual loud and sarcastic tone but not today. Today, he was just going to show a side of him not everyone had the privilege of seeing.
Actually, Alhaitham had seen this side of him before. A calm Kaveh that loved to sit or lean against a table while talking about random things on his mind, not once stopping to make a snarky comment. This Kaveh was a little more open and vulnerable but not too much of it.
"Typical Scribe duties, Kaveh. Avoiding getting a papercut, keeping count of how long each task takes to complete."
"Uh huh... uhm. I was wondering something. Why me?"
"What do you mean by that, Kaveh?"
"Why date me and not someone else?"
What? When did Kaveh get the impression that they were dating? Had he said something in his sleep or what? Fuck. He wanted to ask Kaveh in a proper manner to be his boyfriend, now he doesn't even know how it happened.
"Well. You're... Kaveh. There's only one of you in all of Sumeru, in all of Teyvat. No one else tolerates me as much as you do and no one keeps you in check like I do. We're perfect mirrors of each other."
Alhaitham spoke, looking forward with a determined look.
"Really...? Even if I'm a bad person?"
Silence.
"What?"
"I said, even if I'm a bad person?"
"Kaveh. Who said that to you?"
Silence once more.
Kaveh could only look at the floor now as Alhaitham stopped them from continuing their walk.
"Tell me, Kaveh. Who said you were a bad person?"
"Me. I did."
Alhaitham gave him a questioning look, as if urging him to continue speaking.
"Because I can't for the life of me please everyone. Clients leave disappointed, they destroy my blueprints and belittle me. It's all my fault. I'm a pathetic excuse of an architect. Which is why I ask, why me? I'm someone who only destroys everything in their path. I suck the color out of everything. I'm a bad person for not being able to please everyone. I'm honored to get even an ounce of your love but do I truly deserve it?"
Alhaitham stared at him, feeling his heart drop at the others words. Is that what plagued Kavehs mind? What fueled for him to constantly drink, wasting his nights away in a tavern?
"Kaveh. You are worthy."
Was all he could truly get out. What was he to say in this situation? There was so much in mind but he wasn't the best with words. Though, those simple words seem to have been the correct ones for the blonde instantly hugged him.
There was only silence between the two as they hugged. It was there that Alhaitham vowed to aid Kaveh, to comfort him like the blonde had done so for him in the past. He was to be Kavehs pillar. Kaveh always gave to others, pouring from an empty heart. Now, it was his turn to pour into Kavehs heart.
Alhaitham wanted to be the one to help Kaveh pick up the pieces of his life and make it whole again. He would stand by his side no matter what because it's what Kaveh would do for him, for anyone.