Archive of Our Own ^beta

It’s not an easy feat to adapt to a biological change that happens late in life than if it happens as a kid. and that’s the downside of differentiating from a beta to omega in your last year of high school no less.

Feelings you never knew how to handle, pheromones penetrating your system assaultly without asking and their effect. lost in whatever new world opened before your eyes abruptly one day. uneasiness and hot body crumbles down seeking someone and a salvation.

-

Kaveh was strolling the school halls normally like any other day. he is to meet alhaitham today, his childhood friend and the closest person he has. their families are closely linked too which is more convenient for them to crash at each other place and see the other more.

And it is more convenient that he is a beta and is not affected by whatever alhaitham has been going on his entire life. alhaitham is an alpha, and he had explained to him the general stuff he go through, like ruts, effect of pheromones, and the bothersome acknowledgment between alphas and omegas. whenever one recognises him as someone with pheromones, they will approach him and expect him to converse with them like they aren’t practically strangers. That is a society filled with normal people but a few with secondary gender.

Little knowledge and resources and studies been conducted. it deemed not urgent or of importance given a small percentage are of them. So the members relied on each other in passing their knowledge and help.

Alhaitham’s grandmother is an alpha herself, and she raised alhaitham with utmost support and teaching him all that is known as of right now. and he is immensely grateful to her, to be able to handle his situation gracefully and lead a normal life where he can focus on his interests, books and kaveh.

Their usual meeting spot is on the school rooftop, snacking and peering on the students down walking in the school yard. Today was particularly strange for kaveh and that feeling accumulated with time. he try to brush it off, maybe he is down on a cold or is just tired, but ascending the stairs was a big toll on him, he can barely lift a leg clutching his shirt by his chest.

“Kaveh?” Alhaitham’s voice rang behind him and he is washed with relief. Alhaitham is here, he can help.

Alhaitham was standing by the first footstep with his hands in his pockets, looking up puzzled to why kaveh is slow. the lack of respond made him worry and he quickly transcend the steps reaching kaveh.

“Are you alright?” His hand over kaveh’s back and he ducked his head to look at kaveh’s face. he sees flush and ragged breathing kaveh clutching his chest and wobbling legs. He quickly hoisted kaveh in his arms bridal style to not fall, and moved up two steps and laid him beside the rooftop door leaning back on the wall.

first he checked his temperature, he is hot but not the fever type hot, something familiar to him but not expected of kaveh. Then he checked if kaveh was experiencing short breathing or hyperventilation, kaveh shook his head reluctantly “no I can breathe.. I don’t know what is happening, it doesn’t seem seriously dangerous but I can’t bear it..!”

“Let’s take you to the infirmary-“

“No!” Kaveh cuts him and his hand reached to clasp on alhaitham’s arm squeezing hard. and he leaned resting his head over alhaitham chest and breathed in…but weirdly something soothed him? He jerked his head up despite it hurting and looked at alhaitham with wide eyes. “Y.. you, I can smell something off you,” this made alhaitham widen his eyes and his hands hovering around kaveh.

“There is no way you can smell my pheromones, unless..”

And that’s how kaveh was carried again by alhaitham running to the infirmary. he explained the situation as hasty as he could, asking for a car to take them home.

He took him to his house so his grandmother can assess the situation. once kaveh was laid down on a bed, sweaty and bothered but somehow oriented and can catch on his surroundings, he senses alhaitham’s grandma get close to him then say, “that’s definitely an omega’s pheromones, though it’s dull” then she smiles and continue “he is a late bloomer”.

Kaveh mind is processing so many things in a short time. he isn’t comprehending the fact that he is now an omega, and what does that implies for his future, and what’s the plan. His parents are both betas and doesn’t know a thing about the other world, is he to be alone handling this new change-

A hand clasped over his, it’s the grandmother looking at him with gentle look in her eyes and soothing smile. Right, there are people who he can turn to.

In muffled sounds he hears her voice speaking to alhaitham. something about suppressant and alhaitham was gone for a bit, probably to the pharmacy because when he is back he is holding a bag with pills. he takes one and was also given food to eat and many blankets surrounding him.

“My dear kaveh, I will go to your parents house to inform and explain everything to them. so rest up here and you can go home soon. my hayi will stay with you so you are safe.” all that was taken care of for him with gentleness and warm smiles. he doesn’t feel so lost and can finally relax a bit.

After she left, alhaitham was the one tending to him. He sat at the chair beside the bed setting water by the night stand, then he looked at kaveh who was staring back at him. “so how do you do it? Living as an alpha.” Kaveh asked.

“Like how you have seen me live, normal.” as a matter of fact alhaitham stated. the easy bluntness does strike kaveh to not overthink his situation, maybe it is as easy as alhaitham is making it to be.

“Then I don’t need to worry much..?” Despite his conclusion he is still quite nervous.

Alhaitham met him with a smile which is rare of him, “you don’t cause I am here, I’ll help you every step of the path and you’ll be just fine.”

Even before all that turmoil of today, alhaitham has always been the supporting anchor in his life. always making him feel the most at home and getting his back whenever he needs it. Kaveh eyes sparkle with awe hearing his words, reassured that everything is going to be alright just like he promised.

-

That day and the following couple of days passed in a haze for kaveh, a blur of time and the worst feeling was awaiting him once the suppressant wear off, he kind of heard of the urges in heat or ruts but never really acknowledging their extent of delirium and the hideous desire. He vaguely remembers the smell of alhaitham on that rooftop and it brings him some clarity or rather a comfort to distract his wanting mind.

He smell that same scent now but there is no sign of alhaitham nearby, he would have heard him coming but the only thing he finds by his room doorstep is a basket and his mother. “Alhaitham brought these a request from his grandmother, there are pills and scent blockers and many comforters cause she was worried you wouldn’t have enough blankets” his mom is worried for him and would like they have a long talk but kaveh is in no shape or form for that it’s really best to leave him alone going through it. He nod for her, offering a weak smile before taking the basket noticing that the scent got stronger. so he wasn’t imagining it.

He gets inside and his phone notifications ring, it’s from alhaitham.

Haitham

I sneaked in a blouse of mine without my grandma knowing, it has my scent, hope it helps if not feel free to discard it.
1:23 pm

…
Kaveh is blushing madly, he never expected alhaitham to be so bold sending in his own shirt and expecting kaveh to like it! (He does but oh well).

You

Omg-
1:24 pm

it’s in a way not appropriate for kaveh to get ideas from that, he doesn’t plan to even if it is a biological reaction out of his control he would not. but though it can help in a way that is acceptable, he just need to alter his mindset, think of it as a source of safety, reassurance, and the comfort presence he wish was here.

So he lay in his bed surrounded by all sort of comforters and adding the new ones, it’s a nest he learned after he instinctively does it, and now adding to his collection the blouse, he hugs it and let the scent envelops him, it definitely make him feel better ten times and he is in bliss, adoring the refreshing scent of rain dew falling over dry pavement and mud, the grass element and the old papers make a nostalgic type of comfort.

You

Thank you
2:04 pm

-

It’s back to school for kaveh, he is over his heat and is well like before, only difference is that he can distinctly smell more things he never noticed they exist before, and apparently he also has his own scent though it’s under the scent blocker he got from alhaitham’s grandma.

Once he reached the school gate, haitham was standing there like waiting looking through his phone screen, It’s not a usual occurrence for him to be here early and up for something.

“Waiting for someone?” Kaveh asked getting his attention and alhaitham lift his head expectant and his eyes lit up once he sees kaveh. It has been a week last they saw each other.

“You,”

“So you came early today just for me” an observation more than a question.

Alhaitham walked and kaveh followed side by side, “how are you feeling?”

Kaveh tilt his head, “good” in a kind of acknowledgment to what alhaitham means which is how are you managing the new changes, “I can faintly smell you, I thought it would be much stronger”

“Because I know how to control mine, you will get used to yours too and get the hang of it.”

In the classroom alhaitham kept a close watch and stick close to kaveh, not leaving his side, out of protectiveness or making sure no one bothers him, or he just feels inclined.

This continued ever since. They already used to hang out together and spend so much time in the other company. now that proximity increased and it felt natural to fall in each other steps and always seek the other, it can be instinctual but in a world where you are dictated by your overwhelming emotions it’s best to stick to what makes you feel more at ease and stable.

Their rooftop meetings also kept usual, laying down staring above at the slow moving white clouds. “I don’t feel much different from before only the obvious changes which is not entirely bad”

Alhaitham with a book in his lap, sitting on the floor beside kaveh and leaning on the wall behind hums in thinking “it’s best to mingle normally with everyone without discrimination for someone’s situation, of course following the general etiquette and not overstepping someone’s comfort zone and boundaries. It’s how I became close to you, not thinking of our differences but rather you as a person and I don’t find being alpha a hindering, I can lead a perfectly normal life if I choose to”

Kaveh roll his body to look at alhaitham, his head resting over his bent arm. He is learning things about alhaitham he didn’t consider before, things he took for granted and now he gets it once he is in his shoes.

Nothing much was to be said about being alpha or omega, they fall into the past rhythm of debating over mundane stuff or topics they read about. Something definitely had shifted in the air but no one bats an eye, consumed in the current bliss of continuing their friendship without a hitch. even if some thinks it’s dangerous. It’s the trust and gut feeling that keep them bound.

-

Over at alhaitham’s room they are lounging lazily, the controllers for the playstation long forgotten. The crepe with pistachios sauce is one of the delicacies alhaitham’s grandma is best at, along with lattes alhaitham prepared. He also (unexpectedly of him) has a manga collection next to his even bigger book collection, which is a bonus for kaveh to catch up on the series he has been reading but now with the physical volumes.

“Do you treat this as a free manga cafe?” Alhaitham says by the floor next to his bed, kaveh is above it.

Scoffing, “do you want to charge me??” He knows alhaitham is petty or rather he just love to get under his skin and annoy him.

“I’d like to, also are you not wearing your scent blockers?” He turns to kaveh narrowing his eyes, looking at him like he is the dumbest creature earth has the displeasure to hold. The smell of sweet peaches and floral with a hint of vanilla is gradually filling the room even with the windows open.

“Yeah just now, they’re itchy and I’m indoor anyway” without a care in the world. It made alhaitham wield his patience and sigh exacerbated
.
“Are you that stupid, or did you forget that an alpha is present here??”

Kaveh nonchalantly flips to the next page of his manga. alhaitham is over exaggerating, “I know, but given that we are always together and the blockers are a pain, it’s about time you get used to mine”

“Why should I, you are the one who should be moderating the pheromones you exude, it’s an assault to flaunt them”

“Gee what flaunt? They exist naturally it’s not something to take pride in”

“You get the gist. Now you wouldn’t like it if I start showing mine off would you” like he didn’t purposely send his scented blouse to kaveh before.

“Actually..”

A sigh, alhaitham pinch the space between his eyes. “I get it, but would you please,” he look up pleading which caught kaveh off guard. does his pheromones has such significant impact it makes alhaitham look him with puppy eyes and ask him nicely..

“Then teach me how I control it” better suffer the short term for the greater good alhaitham.

Alhaitham consider it for a bit and unceremoniously say “Don’t think erotically”

“I’m not what the fuck!!” blushing and sitting up cause this talk isn’t comfortable for him to be lounging without a care.

Alhaitham raise a finger in statement, “you may not have experienced it yet, but being in the vicinity of alpha’s pheromones could be really bad for you and straight up dangerous. It might influence your brain against your will and end up badly. that’s why it’s common courtesy, no a must, for people to follow the rule of keeping it to themselves or for private.”

The power it beholds is like a weapon that can be used for the wrong reasons and it’s that effective. Kaveh was taken aback once again. it’s a good thing that alhaitham is here explaining these stuff to him or else he could potentially do all the wrong things and endanger him and the poor people outside.

He quickly moves to put the patch again over his neck but alhaitham hand clasp over his stopping him. He widen his eyes puzzled.

“It’s fine, we shall get you to learn as you said.” He looked to the side, “and I to get used to them, it’s inevitable that we would lower our guard at some point when it’s just us”

A nod, “okay. carry on.”

Alhaitham sat over his bed to be in the same level as kaveh and start explaining basic stuff, “it’s like baby steps, you build habit and could do it effortlessly. Just focus your thoughts now and try to contain the pheromones like how your cerebellum instigate your movements”

Cerebellum? “Ummm okay?” Not sure kaveh tries to think of it concentrating and visualising putting all his effort into it, then a hand placed over his shoulder.

“Relax, don’t overthink or complicate it, it should be natural”

“Not everyone is a prodigy kid like you” but he complies and relax his shoulders. After few minutes it seems there is no progress “I give up”.

“It’s fine you can practice that whenever you want, don’t beat yourself if you don’t get it right away” alhaitham is not for empathising or comforting people so if he say something it’s from an honest place. that made kaveh trust his words and have faith in himself.

Still he feels guilty he is now probably making alhaitham uncomfortable with his pheromones. He steal a side glance and see the minuscule change of alhaitham mouth press, “I should really wear my blockers now”

Alhaitham was silent for a bit. He is studying kaveh like trying to read his mind “do you know how my scent is like?”

Kaveh puzzled to what prompted the question and tilt his head to the side, “something like rain and parchment, old and natural like forest.” Kaveh smile thinking of something “I do think it suits your personality best, does one scent indicated by their nature?”

Alhaitham adjusted his sitting to be next to kaveh and their backs on the wall, he seem to be softer. “Maybe. Yours is fragrance of different flowers, which makes me want to study flowers and know exactly which ones is yours. there is also sweetness of fruit like walking through a field. a refreshing breath in summer” alhaitham is smiling, little unnoticeable but not to kaveh’s eyes. He is also somehow flustered covering it with his usual confidence and poised demeanour.

Kaveh is taken back by everything, alhaitham’s words and face are new and it makes him embarrassed, was that supposed to be a compliment or what cause it sound like one.

With the both of them flustered and looking away silence befall but subsided quick after alhaitham suggest getting lunch, and that was that.

-

Winter rolled up and thick garments are out. Kaveh had his favourite red scarf wrapped around his neck along with brown knitted vest, going to school. The early morning chill is in the air and it makes him shiver, there is nothing more devastating than waking up early and walking in this weather for school. he envy his cat mehrak staying in the warmth of home whenever he sees her before heading out of the house.

Hands came around his scarf adjusting it to cover up his ears, “Your ears turned red” that was alhaitham. it became a habit for them to commute together to and from their school, and a common occurrence for alhaitham to take care of these little things about kaveh. Kaveh likes the princess treatment so there is no objections.

Although it does make them look even more attached to each other than before. And it was a known fact in school that both of them always came in a pack, if you need kaveh just find alhaitham and vice versa.

Kaveh was not ready to experience another heat, his second one, in a crucial time of mid exam season. The good thing is it came in the time before the exams, the days you are supposed to study and prepare, but that still not good enough cause what is he supposed to do now not able to study.

You

Hayiii what should I do
10:13am

Haitham

Don’t call me that. Revise your notes when you can, there isn’t a magic trick that helps.
10:14am

You

Can your gracious wisdom bearer self send me some of your articulate notes of knowledge to this poor soul?
10:24am

No response. Kaveh laying on his stomach drenched in sweat and feeling his absolute worst, throws the phone away and half tired screams into the pillow. This is really bad and he is so wrong for saying that this change isn’t half bad. what aloud of bullshit he spout.

After a few minutes while his mind is fogging his sensations and perception of his surroundings he hears a loud knock on his bedroom.

He got up reluctantly almost angry to be disturbed in his despair moment of anguish. but when he opens the door his whole body shiver in jolt of electric feeling. He sees alhaitham in front of him and he can feel his blood rushing with wants. His instinct tells him this is an opportunity served on a golden plate but his rational mind is fighting this side.

“W-what are you doing here?” The words choked out. kaveh wrapped himself tighter with the blanket around his shoulders, holding to thin thread not to jump alhaitham.

Alhaitham with forced will and heavy feet set inside the room, taking out pills from his pocket and handing them to kaveh who stayed still looking uncertain and raised an eyebrow.

“I have a schedule and shouldn’t consume so many suppressants.” kaveh said reciting what he learned from alhaitham’s grandmother and following them like law orders.

Alhaitham shake the pills into his hand offering them still, “there are exceptions for dire times, now is one. I brought my notebook, we will go through the important subjects and get you somehow ready, I’ll help you”

… Kaveh is done with this and he was about to close his bedroom door but alhaitham hold onto it too, stubbornly both pushing the door in opposite directions. “Just give me the damn notebook and scram” kaveh says losing his patience.

Alhaitham didn’t budge “you won’t study on your own while on heat and feeling shit. I can read and made things more easy for you, my scent can also help”

“No thanks. This can take the wrong turn”

“I would never ever harm you”

“I trust you. but I can’t say the same about myself, I might lose my mind and go rampage and who knows,” kaveh grit his teeth, and loosen his grip on the handle looking down with weak voice, alhaitham is quite frankly his everything. he can’t ruin that. alhaitham mimic him and let go of the door peering at kaveh from the half opened door.

“Didn’t you say before it’s best that we get used to each other? Being in your vicinity while in heat or you in mine while in rut can be tricky but with a systemic method we can cohabit. I can hold myself and I wouldn’t mind or get mad if you may do something, we can get past that with communication and understanding, but we need to try at least before just shutting me away from you..” haitham took a pause and went to say his mind like he always do even if this time it seem harder to get the words cross and make sense, “I can’t bear see you in pain and be far away”

Kaveh look up creaking the door open just a little bit to have a good look on alhaitham’s face and see a side of him he doesn’t particularly show. Being emotional and uncertain, Not his over the top rationality that would scream that this is crazy and stupid. And kaveh wouldn’t mind a bit of out of pocket ideas, so he lets him into the room. “Fine, come in”

Now alhaitham words is eating him up cause this was his idea but he seem hesitant and awkward not knowing where to go from here, he can smell his now favourite scent concentrated ten fold in this tiny room, he try clearing his mind and play it cool but flinched when kaveh suggested, “come here already, I feel best in my bed so sit beside me”

Kaveh is sitting in his made up nest of many warm and comfy blankets one over another with a space in the centre, where kaveh is sitting tapping his side with his hand inviting alhaitham over in his nest.

“Are you sure? I read that this is a big deal and you are casually urging me there”

Kaveh sigh, “I am absolutely fine with this, it’s you after all” alhaitham doesn’t know how to interpret that, is it kaveh’s blinding trust that alhaitham is just a friend and him being alpha means nothing, or he is alright with alhaitham being in his most intimate and private space out of want.

Anyway that is, alhaitham went and climbed the building of blankets and sat inside beside kaveh. He passed him the pills and water and after that is done kaveh feels much better and even his scent diluted. Alhaitham cracked the books open and start reading together.

It is nice, better than what kaveh expected. Yes the suppressant helps but alhaitham present also play a role, he feels more grounded, more at ease. It’s magical his effect just by being here sitting beside him inside his nest, kaveh feels the safest and he let out an exhale of relief he didn’t know he was anxious.

They are close but kaveh subconsciously start inching closer looking over alhaitham shoulder to see the text while alhaitham is explaining them, so close he is almost attach to alhaitham back, drunk by the nice and soothing scent emitted.

Alhaitham noticed and paused, kaveh puzzled not aware of his movement. Alhaitham tried ignoring it and continue, he did but it was difficult concentrating while feeling a warm body pressed on your side. In heat no less. True to his words, he kept still and did what he came here for and they had a good progress.

After sometime kaveh head is resting over alhaitham’s shoulder, his long golden hair tickling his neck. he moved his blankets closer encircling them and leaving no space but the very spot they were.

Alhaitham closed his eyes and the book simultaneously like enough, “kaveh you are trapping me”

Kaveh innocently and actually confused “Huh?” Then he had a moment of perceiving his surroundings with clear eyes, he sees nothing but alhaitham face inches away and half his view covered by blankets wall. He quickly retreated but his back hit the blankets and realized that yes, they are trapped, “sorry let me move these”

He throw them randomly while his mind is occupied by embarrassment, and missing the warmth he used to a minute ago. He sat with half meter apart almost pouting. Alhaitham looked at the whole ordeal and resume to reading. if he can he would enveloped kaveh between his arms and chase away his sad face but now is not the right time, first they are still getting used to each other and second he needs these study materials to pass into kaveh’ brain. a smirk played on alhaitham’s face and kaveh scoffed at.

With a whole afternoon worth of diligent study alhaitham set to leave home. He looked at his side where kaveh is half sitting half laying with heavy eyelids, tired and sleepy. Alhaitham smiled again which has become kind of habit these days. leaned over to have a look at him, and the sudden leaning startle kaveh into wakefulness, “what?”

“Just checking, I shall go home now,” alhaitham put a hand over kaveh’s forehead to see his temperature. “How are you feeling?”

Kaveh cherished the cool sensation of alhaitham’s hand and closed his eyes in content humming. “Just tired, hope I can sleep it off and be rid of it”

Alhaitham hums too and said “this heat doesn’t seem so bad but worse than the last one, it might have gradual effect in intensity with each coming one”

Kaveh grumbled “you mean this can get worse??”

“You wouldn’t keep to yourself if it was full blown out of the known heats. So good job today with restraint”

“You are making fun of me”

Smiling stupidly as kaveh would describe, “see ya” and he was gone. Leaving annoyed kaveh but happy for today’s company, and warmth.

-

Time pass, no matter the turmoil and how difficult it feels to continue. Last year of school and preparing for college entrance exams is one of the hardest milestones in life, anxiety to a mad point and fear for a path long taken reaching lifetime end with destiny capsules the meaning of your passion and livelihood.

For an idealist and passionate driven man this is the sentence of life and death, architecture or nothing for kaveh. He poured his soul, sweat and tears into the final moments and kept calm in the actual days of taking exams which was a plus move and earned him his efforts into fruition.

And on the day of results, him and alhaitham joined with their families, alhaitham’s grandma, kaveh’s mother and stepfather all in one room and two laptops. The wait is nerve racking and kaveh sneakily moved his hand under the table and linked it with alhaitham’s who squeezed it in turn in support that they both need. They really want to get in the same university, the Akademiya, and it would be cruel if only one of them got accepted which add to the nervesness.

Moments and it’s out, entering their numbers and seeing the screen. Kaveh with opened mouth turned to see alhaitham’s face without uttering a word and they only nod to each other which is the indicator for their acceptance and applause erupted from kaveh screaming yesss! and went for a hug that almost knocked alhaitham back and they hold into each other for dear life.

Happiness filled the room and their families joined them in the hug and there were joyful tears here and there, especially from kaveh.

After a shared meal as their families traditions to join in occasions and celebrate their new journey with home made cake and warm gathering. Kaveh and alhaitham decide to take a walk in the night street and the cool breeze.

Kaveh stare up at the grey clouds moving over the shy moon peeking its light between them and he feels surreal. Is it the concept of universe finally hitting him or getting in architecture in the university of his dreams, with his most favourite person too. Alhaitham major in linguistics and he told him before that he wants to get into as many courses because he is the kind of guy interested in anything and everything his books contain.

“Let’s live together” alhaitham interrupted the silence and he was staring at kaveh who was more interested in stars but now his interest has peaked and finally share the stare with alhaitham.

“We totally should! Renting apartment near campus with easy commute, decorating the space to our heart content and doing study sessions together in the warmth of home in winter peeling tangerines and watching movies with projector in the living room-“ kaveh was radiating and shone with excitement and kept rambling his daydreaming plan and then he stutter mid sentence seeing the softest smile drawn on alhaitham’s face giving him a twinkling eyes reflecting the moonbeam in their teal and orange hue.

“And?” He prompted kaveh who is speechless now.

“Um.. we will figure out the rest as we go” he is flustered and blushing seeking hideness in the dim light night. This is unreal, he is so happy he could cry, and alhaitham isn’t helping his case making him feel even more emotional. “I am really grateful I have you”

That caught alhaitham off guard and now he is the mess not knowing what to say and looking everywhere but kaveh, then his eyes set on the scarlet of kaveh’s irises and found grounding feeling. “It’s me who is really lucky to have a sun present in a shape of a person who is always by my side and illuminating my days in so many ways”

That earned him a smack on the arm from kaveh who turned red from embarrassment, “is this your prep to major in linguistics? Maybe literature was your calling after all”

Laugh escaped alhaitham and he walked off satisfied. The moon and sun present in the same time doesn’t seem all that fantastical, with one look over at kaveh and he is the brightest star the sky could dream of having.

-

Kaveh walks through unfamiliar halls looking at signs and asking other students for directions. He gets to his designated class sighing in relief once he got in a chair at the far end. it’s his first day in college, from the look of it people here seem chill and it’s like a small society each with their own separate life and schedules yet always find their friends and spend the most time together.

He daydream of the day this also be the norm for him and get over the nervousness of first day and new place. Finding group of friends, make plans, and have fun! No matter how much he heard the school work being hellish it’s part of the romantic aspect of college life after all.

While waiting in his seat on his phone he hears a person next to him. raising his head he sees a guy standing with big smile wanting to talk. “Hey what’s up! Just noticed we have omega in this class, it’s so nice seeing second genders here haha”

Kaveh thinks this is an opportunity to strike a conversation and make some acquaintances, “hi, I know right? I barely met people like this in my school.” It’s not so weird to come to a person and chat about things only you know how it feels, it’s like bonding over the same struggles.

“Can I sit here?” The guy with brunet hair asked keeping his radiant smile.

“Sure” kaveh moved his bag letting the seat beside him vacant.

Well in most cases it’s an opportunity to meet new people with potentially dating them, given it’s rarity, one would jump for the chance to associate with their match like magnet attract.

Kaveh remembers alhaitham words about mingling with no discrimination, he try to think best of people and trusting his gut feeling.

The guy whose name noah seem candid about his thoughts, straightforward with his words given his first sentence was pointing out that kaveh is an omega. “I major in civil engineering, freshman”

“I am freshman too, architecture”

Laughs, “that’s an interesting dynamic, architecture scares us engineers”. noah seem to notice something and his eyes flickered with realization, “ohh you smell of alpha scent coating you” he noticed it once they sat close enough.

Kaveh took a moment to register that information he didn’t knew, then make sense of it. “it’s probably from my roommate, his scent must rubbed on me”

Noah was interested, “so you are already taken”

Kaveh tilt his head “no? We are just besties”

“But you are omega and he is alpha living together”

“And that’s fine”

Noah thinks that college people have some wild ideas he did not consider before, it’s an eye opening for him and he is very interested in hearing the story fascinated by their approach. “How can you hold back from each other?” His persistent questioning could seem rude but he is genuinely curious and kaveh can catch on to that.

“We have been friends since forever, even when I became omega that did not change. It’s stupid to cut that bond we have just for that reason. Also we should live with people of all sort and be respectful about it, like how you and I are talking”

“What if I have ulterior motives?” Noah was still smiling.

“Are you?” Kaveh isn’t alert.

Noah Laughs again, “no. I consider it before but not now”

“Because you think being friends is best?” Kaveh trying to understand him.

“Well, that and also it seem I have no chance, your roomie might kill me hahaha”

Scoffed, “alhaitham wouldn’t”

Yes he would. Cause once class is over he finds alhaitham waiting for him outside his class in the hallway, alhaitham brighten when he saw kaveh waving and walking his direction but his expression changed to a glare when he sees an alpha trailing behind kaveh.

His arms came around kaveh pulling him in a hug but more like protecting him and his glare kept on that alpha behind who is smiling.

“Who is this?” Alhaitham brows furrow.

“Oh. That’s noah, my new friend!” Kaveh says excited, still entrapped in alhaitham’s hold not minding the gesture, they are touchy as of late.

“Hiya. I am noah, you must be alhaitham, kaveh told me about you. Please to meet you” he is enthusiastic like kaveh with no worry in the world despite alhaitham glare dagger into him.

“Can’t say I share the same sentiment. And don’t think of playing games”

“Alhaitham!” Kaveh swat his shoulder lightly, “be nice”

“Haha, of course. I get it, we are just friends. I would like to hang out with kaveh he is a cool person. If you don’t mind.” him and alhaitham seem to have a telepathic understanding, maybe it’s a thing between alphas.

“Noah, don’t mind him. I can do what I want” kaveh turned to face noah, alhaitham’s arms still around him and his chin rested above kaveh’s head scowling.

Noah the guy he is with sunshine persona bid kaveh goodbye with smile and went his way of discovering this university.

… “I don’t like him” alhaitham says.

“You know nothing of him how did you come to this conclusion”

“so are you”

“Hmph, fine I’ll be careful and know him better”

Finally did alhaitham let loose of his arms and only went to hold kaveh’s hand and take him away striding through the campus.

-

Their shared apartment is cozy and small with two bedrooms, living room with balcony and kitchen. Kaveh took the liberty to decorate the space after alhaitham approval of kaveh being in charge since he is the one with more sense in beauty and aesthetics.

Filling the space with light wooden shelves to hold their books and trinkets, plants and on the walls photos in frames of their favourite shows and media, corner for games cd and figures, red velvet couch cushion with wooden frame. Their bedrooms are their free rein, and the kitchen had everything in pairs, utensils and plates of the same design but different colors, their cups matches too, and the little wooden dining table where they spend most of their time sitting there when cooking and chatting.

Returning home from college and draping over the couch talking about their first day. “I was super nervous, but the class passed smoothly. They gave us homework and it’s only the first day! I feel like I know nothing but I have to keep up.” Kaveh recount the events of today.

Alhaitham looked side way to see kaveh face, “you will be just fine.” Kaveh scoffed, he knows alhaitham won’t indulge him with the complaining. “They assigned us books to read, but I have already read them so I’ll just fill in my assignments right away”, see kaveh knows he won’t complain.

They cooked dinner together, had a video call with alhaitham’s grandma guiding them on how to prepare kibbeh with stuffing. They work simultaneously with ease and fun, laughing at their attempts of making the perfect round shape but end up with mushy fillings.

Alhaitham’s grandmother looking at them through the phone smiling at their harmonious and cute cohabitating. She can rest assured that they will be happy together and look after each other.

-

Just few weeks and kaveh had the misfortune of having his heat first between them. They didn’t make any adjustments to ride off their heat and rut while living together, which they probably should, since it was the first concern whenever they brought up living together to people. Kaveh thought he only needed to stay put in his room like he always does and be done with it.

It is difficult knowing just few feets away lay the person you want the most..whatever that means.

He hears the door to his bedroom creak slowly and open just a bit, he sees a tray filled with plates of food and tea placed by the table beside the door. “Don’t forget to eat, and the tea can help you relax” alhaitham didn’t set foot in the room, delivering his care through a distance but a care nonetheless. It seems that alhaitham really can’t leave kaveh to his own struggles alone.

Kaveh is filled with awe and wish for him to stay, but the door closes. He stand to take the food and pout with flush at the kind gesture, why such small thing have big effect on him, it’s normal for them to cook for each other this should be the same, but the delivery of it and the arrangement of the small plates along with the tea right to you is making him feel things, butterflies but he shakes that idea. “This is stupid, why am I hooked up by it”

At dawn he feels really bothered, he hugs his pillow trying to peel the warmth off of it but he can’t get that out of inanimate. He could almost cry out of want to connect with a human, just to be held and reminded of the gentleness he can get. He feels lonely, his own hand came to comb his hair ever so softly and pat his back.

Once his emotions could not bottle up and start spilling out of the threshold, does he get up and walk off his bedroom. He glanced at the door beside his and go for it, knocking, he hears some rustling but no words, alhaitham must be asleep. He doesn’t feel sorry to wake him, he feels more dire emotions to care for sleep.

So he open it slowly and peer inside, “alhaitham?”

Alhaitham does open his blurry eyes from sleep, squinting at the figure at the door to make his appearance and see kaveh in distress. “Kaveh, come here” alhaitham sit up, his hair disheveled and in process of waking up fully. his hands extended.

Kaveh walks on slowly then triple down when he is near alhaitham and falls into his embrace. He takes a deep breath and his shoulders relaxed, he feels being brought down to the ground after being afloat and seeing clearly after haziness.

They lay down in alhaitham’s bed in each other hold. Kaveh head finds its way in alhaitham neck groove fitting like puzzle pieces, his arms squeezing tight around his back and torso, finally feeling the warmth he most craved.

More than a sexual desire he feels the want to connect, to feel and loved. His hopeless romantic self gets the better of him and rule his subconscious while vulnerable and unable to withhold this side of him. He hides himself embarrassed by such exposure to his deepest most sacred out of reach fantasy he dears. But he can’t run or hide here in alhaitham’s embrace, he is only burying himself deeper in the man skin and alhaitham respond is by holding him even closer if that’s even possible.

They fell into blissful sleep after the anguish deliberate separation that is gone now and are finally in their right place, after their souls been screaming, screeching over the heart and the invisible force attracting them.

In the morning kaveh is still feeling like the world would collapse if alhaitham got away from him. Poor guy tried to stand and start his day but kaveh clasp his hands and arms around him like a cat not letting him free.

“Are you for real?” Alhaitham sitting in his bed and kaveh holding him by his torso.

“You can’t leave me, no.”

“I just want to make breakfast, I need my coffee”

“Coffee!” Kaveh perked up at the mention. Now is the chance for alhaitham’s release.

“Yes, let us go to the kitchen and make it”

They did, except that kaveh did not let go of him. Alhaitham is grinding the coffee beans fresh and add the powder in the coffee pot along with boiled water. Kaveh is attached to his back watching his every move over his shoulder.

They are so ordinary about it it makes alhaitham wonder how they reach this point. well if he’s being honest, he has always been eager for the day this become a normal occurrence for them. He was just waiting, waiting for kaveh to take the step.

He made scrambled eggs too and they set to have breakfast. Kaveh moved his chair next to alhaitham’s and they kept this close proximity untile kaveh’s heat died down and he seem more oriented and clear minded that he start feeling embarrassed and shy and not so much stick to alhaitham side.

-

Alhaitham can’t run from the social interactions his mankind obeyed, double that with being a hot shot alpha. He never been in for attention or exchanging small unnecessary small talks, it’s a chore he needs not to indulge in and waste his time.

Yet, life can’t be smooth sealing for your wishes. Immediately after few days of enrolling in this university, few been acquainted with him despite his displeasure. he thinks it's more hustle to go the extra miles to shoot them away than just leave it as is.

“We should hangout sometime, I know just the place! Cutter to your preferences” a beautiful third year student met alhaitham in one of their mutual classes. Sitting at a table meant to discuss their joint project, along with her beta best friend. Oh, and she’s omega.

Alhaitham mild interest for the chitchat and focusing on writing down their respective part in the research, only hummed for the suggestion which they took as a yes.

After minutes of settling their meeting, the three stood and walked. The two friends chattering included haitham somehow which he partakes in. taking his opinion on certain matters that he gives the best insight on, advisor level headed.

They pass through the hallway of the architecture department, a class just finished so the sea waves of students emerge and they navigate through. Until he spots the familiar blond does he relax and approach him.

Kaveh was accompanied by noah, laughing over their shared matters, then he caught sight of alhaitham and his smile grew even wider and went to meet him.

A group formed, most are strangers to others. Kaveh looked passed alhaitham inquiring him for introductions. Alhaitham looked behind addressing the two women who were waving with smile. “Yaqut and qamar, my teammates in a project. They are third year, our seniors.”

Kaveh is friendly but nervous to meet upper grade, is he supposed to be extra professional or just a smile suffice?? “hi! I am kaveh. Alhaitham’s roommate and friend” they nod with nice to meet you and their demeanour was chill and welcoming making kaveh relax.

“And I am noah, kaveh’s friend.” Noah popped and emerged from kaveh’s side displaying his friendly and shiny aura.

Alhaitham scowled at noah, coming beside kaveh and pulling him closer to him. The push and pull they had been going on the past few days fell in normalcy. Though the two girls exchanged look at the play before them.

Yaqut, the omega one leaned over her friend ear who is oblivious to detect some underlying truth. “The kaveh one is omega, while noah is alpha. It seems that alhaitham is protective of his roommate”

Qamar shocked by the enlightened piece of information she got. First she is amazed at her friend composed self when the introduction happened as she can detect their secondary genders right away. this can complicate something…yaqut short lived crush over alhaitham.

“Wait..!” Qamar said looking at her friend and she was silenced by yaqut light smack to her arm.

“Come on, don’t feel sympathetic to me or something. I told you, the guy was just hot and well, my type. but nothing really sparkled after that” yaqut whispered and crossed her arms. it’s a loss, but she can get over it.

“Want to join us in lunch?” Kaveh peeked towards them ignoring alhaitham and noah fussing about him.

Qamar turned to her friend, “shall we?”

“Sure” Yaqut smiled and walked towards the rest.

The cafeteria is noisy and the food isn’t the best but it serves for a quick bite, most of the time the guys would prepare their home made meals for healthier option and cost saving. Today was different so they all head there.

Alhaitham stick close to kaveh finding haven amidst the loud and packed space. Yaqut observed them trying to figure out their dynamic relationship. noah is convincing qamar to order the caesar salad despite her picky habits and avoiding veges.

“What will you order, senior yaqut?” Kaveh asked.

She came back from her zoning out and registered the way kaveh called her, “you can just call me yaqut. And I’m craving burger” she smile at the way kaveh fumble and shy about addressing her directly by the name, her head resting over her palm.

“Are their burgers good? I only tried the fettuccine and…it wasn’t good”

“Yeah, the cream sauce is too soggy for the pasta. but the burgers are my guilty pleasure, you will know once you try them.”

They set their orders. Noah start talking about his volleyball club, kaveh still figuring out which club to join, alhaitham on his phone.

The seniors sharing their experiences and advice. “The dorms suck. No privacy or accommodation, I barley survived my heats before deciding enough is enough and rented an apartment. Had to get a part time job.” Yaqut says while munching on the straw of her drink in frustration.

Noah joined her, “I took one look there and knew it won’t work. The public is still oblivious to the needs, I even talked to the management and they said to roll with it.”

“There is also no precaution or specialist to deal with emergencies concerning pheromones.” Alhaitham slip in his comment while his eyes still on the phone.

Kaveh looked to his side, “is that why you took me to your grandmother that one time?”

Alhaitham nod, “there is no use going to a normal clinic. And was in haste to hassle finding the right one.”

Kaveh turned to the group who were puzzled by their conversation. And he explained, “ah, I just turned to omega last year, and in school.”

Yaqut’s eyes widen and leaned forward in her seat. “Wait, really! That must be surprising for you, I know it can be difficult at times.” She really felt like he is her junior. and omega to another they can get each other and what they are facing.

Kaveh nod with sweet smile for her worry, “I had alhaitham by my side this whole time, it went really well compared to without him”, as he exchanged look with her, he understood why he wanted to talk to her. He was eager to open up to a person who know what he is going through, and maybe hear the advice from a veteran and what to expect and do better.

Qamar joined in, “Yaqut here really been through it for the majority of her life, I’ve been witness on it since middle school. Aside from her sad dating history-“ yaqut smacked her side with a hey! But she continued, “she has been resilient in her stand and did not wither from the looks down people often give her…What I am saying is you are not alone. Even though I’m beta and probably don’t understand what you guys went through, I have seen enough with my eyes to know how strong you came from it. I respect that, and here for you.”

Her friend eyes were glittering and moved by the unexpected words, she sniffled and hugged her side. “That was corny but thank you qamar.”

Qamar sighed, “well that was mostly to cheer up kaveh, he is our little junior after all.”

Kaveh laughed and genuinely thanked qamar. despite only meeting today, he was met with kindness and lovely company, he really likes this new chapter of his life and is looking forward to more.

Yaqut clasped her hands remembering something, “oh right, we invited alhaitham on an outing to this nice café, now we have met I would like to extend the invitation to you too, kaveh and noah”

Alhaitham raised his eyebrow and looked up from his phone, “I did not agree to it”

“You didn’t object and that’s as far as we can get as approval from you.” Qamar chimed in.

“Agree” kaveh stated from his long time of knowing alhaitham.

Alhaitham fondly glared at kaveh and sighed. “Fine, if he’s coming.”

-

Introduction party for new comers freshmen is one of the traditions that set the scene for students to bond and find friends, that in theory at least. Most don't care about the get to know people aspect and let the course of nature make its magic and hopefully find their peers. Although the idea of attending for fun and memories does seem appealing.

This year it was set to have all majors to partake in, bonding on a large scale they say. Thus the whole restaurant was reserved for the akademiya get together party. Each major with their designated corner and tables.

Less formal than what kaveh expected and it’s mostly beers being tossed around, barbecue grilling and loud chatters. He finds a corner with a glass in hand and polite smile, he doesn’t find problem with socialising, considerate and enthusiast with big heart plays on people strings nicely and smoothly.

He is having fun, good food and his new interest in alcohol, people letting loose and enjoying themselves. But being idealistic and naive, believing the best in people will come at a halt after running straight and crashing at a wall.

Neither alhaitham nor noah was at his major section, here he feels a little unease, like having no emergency exit in a tight closed space, despite it actually being spacious he feels the air is heavier with four walls surrounding it.

Getting tipsy was also alarming but he wasn’t fully drunk, was oriented enough. But when he feels the side of the chair cushion beside him dip his heart fall with it, and his breathing seize at the acrid whiff of pheromones he unpleasantly was welcome with.

The snarl voice came in a greeting he did not process fully by acknowledged it to be such. His hands fisted over his thighs and he slowly looked up to see a guy sitting beside him with a smirk and awful scent of alpha.

Kaveh gulped and pushed heavily to say, “hi.”

The guy smirked widen and his elbow rested over the table, his body swirled to face kaveh. “Haven’t seen ya before, it's a pleasure to meet a cute and pleasant fellow architect, things been boring lately. You know with a stiff stem major.”

Kaveh tries his best to even out his breath but he wince every time the sticky pheromones go through his nostrils. “W..well, I find it interesting.. the classes I mean.”

Barking laugh, kaveh really wants to shut his nose and ears too but that would be impolite. But it seems the other isn’t avid about politeness as his posture started leaning into kaveh space and kaveh leaned back with twisted look on his face, and got the courage to say, “can you please do something about your pheromones?”

The other alpha did not like what he heard and his face turned like switch from smirk to scowl. “What are you implying?? Like I’m deliberately doing it for something malice?”

“Maybe not but I’m still feeling uncomfortable about it.”

“Huh! Can’t you handle some pheromones? this is normal, I always carry this scent with me.”

Kaveh sighed, he wished his comment would enlighten this man about his insult and apologies but seems not. “It’s not normal to exude them freely around people, maybe the people around you didn’t voice it out but now you know.”

His pheromones sour more by the anger he takes and made it everyone’s problem. Kaveh looked around to see if the others also feeling it but his eyes widen when he sees the students across him unfazed and chatting normally between themselves. He thinks to himself, they must be beta not knowing what is going on and didn’t pick on the smell.

The offender kept barking, his body turned fully to face kaveh and his leg was touching him, kaveh felt twist in his gut, he itched back away from him but his back hit a wall. He felt trapped, felt the air knocked out of his lungs. He wanted to voice his concerns, his dismay but his voice isn’t coming out and words aren’t forming as his tongue paralysed and lips quiver.

Then a hand came over the guy’s shoulder yanking him back with full strength he almost buckled back into the ground but the hand firmly twisted over his shirt pulling him up to stand with force, and before he could say anything to shout he was cut. “Your disgraceful insult reached far and is as foul as your face”

Kaveh teary eyes and shoulder relaxed and he could breathe again at the sight of alhaitham yanking this insolent away from him.

“And who the fuck are you?!” He practically shout, that and the display of alhaitham holding on his shirt face to face like a fight broke out got the students attention and the surrounding quiet down a bit.

Anger start boiling up in alhaitham, he can not fathom the absolute degeneracy and the audacity of this guy questioning him. “Who am I you say?? Kaveh there is my fucking everything! And you bastard dare to harass him despite him voicing out your disgusting play.” His voice picked up in volume too.

A hand came over alhaitham’s hand, it was noah, looking at alhaitham with piercing but somewhat calm and composed stare. “Let’s take this out alhaitham, people are watching.” Alhaitham did not like the intrusion and glared with death look over noah.

But noah didn’t waver and his gaze bore to the offender, “he could use some beating into his senses to fix it but it’s best to get him out of kaveh’s sight asap.”

Alhaitham eyes shot back quickly onto kaveh, taking in his face and his terror. The glossy eyes, the trembling and distress. He let go of his hand and hurriedly followed to kaveh side taking his face in his hands gently.

Noah took the guy away pulling him despite the other reluctant demeanour and fuss. Noah fixed him with a terrifying side glance and that took the breath out of the offender making him obliged to follow out.

Alhaitham thumped gently over kaveh’s eyes, smoothing out the wetness, he also wore a soft look in his eyes as he peer at kaveh, worried. Kaveh smiled weakly raising his hands over alhaitham’s to give them a reassuring squeeze. “I am fine now, haitham.”

Alhaitham isn’t buying it, he sighed and his hands came around kaveh enveloping his sides, “I will make sure you are fine.” Some of the students cleared their throat and the silence in the restaurant was getting uncomfortable. So alhaitham took kaveh’s hand into his, leading him away but made sure not to go in the same direction noah took that guy.

Once they were both alone in the hallway, alhaitham hugged kaveh tightly and his face buried in kaveh’s shoulder and neck, his arms wrapped around kaveh back and waist pulling him impossibly close to erase that awful lingering smell from before.

Kaveh eyes widened but reciprocated with his arms and hands clutching at the back of alhaitham’s shirt, cherishing the calming and soothing scent he adore of alhaitham. And in turn, alhaitham let out his calming pheromones after making sure kaveh would want them and he felt kaveh’s body relax in his hold.

“I was scared, I should have pushed him or did something-“

“No kaveh, don’t blame yourself. It’s that bastard fault, not you.”

Warm breath fanned over alhaitham’s cheek from kaveh, “thank you for coming to me. truly alhaitham, you’re a saviour.”

Alhaitham’s hand came to pat and smooth over kaveh’s golden hair, his head raised and looked closely at kaveh’s face eye to eye. “I could sense your distress. I can recognise your smell from a mile away. And wouldn’t hesitate to run to you.”

Kaveh eyes’ rim watered and he looked at alhaitham with awe and adoration, his forehead rested over alhaitham’s shoulder with contentment and tiredness. “Am I really your everything?” He whispered and it fell only for their intended ears.

Alhaitham smiled while nuzzling at kaveh’s hair, replying with gentle tone and as quiet, “of course you are.”

-

Back in their apartment, night fall and the sky glitter with stardust and tranquility, the two boys enter their living room and with only the tv as light source along with the moonlight, they sat on the couch closely.

Alhaitham’s arm around kaveh’s shoulder, his distal fingers loosely playing with kaveh’s hair strands, twirling them around his fingers and examining the dark hair color change at the end parts. His move is absentminded but with the whole focus on kaveh not the tv.

“You will miss the plot if you keep watching me” kaveh huffs.

“I don’t care about the plot of mid tv show”

“But you will feel lost watching”

“Then I’ll have you explaining”

Kaveh gave up and lean back more comfortably into the cushion and alhaitham’s arm. alhaitham way of comforting is by holding onto kaveh or keeping close and speaks when affirming something, it’s cute in a way so kaveh allow him.

“Still it’s not like I have grown wings, we have been stuck together for years now, nothing interesting to watch.”

Alhaitham smile to that his stare is piercing, “but you have grown and changed over the years. Your freckles for example; new ones appear and some disappear, one just popped up in the side of your forehead a few days ago, and the color here is fading a bit.” With his other free hand pointing at the locations he mentioned, tracing gentle touch over his face.

Kaveh looked side way to peer at him, his eyes widen slightly at the fact that alhaitham had been paying close attention to these little details. that new freckle he mentioned, kaveh thought it to be just a pimple but it was indeed a freckle. That requires a close attention to his face, and alhaitham noticed.

Kaveh snorted and joked, “next you’ll know their exact number.”

Alhaitham seriously, “I tried but it’s difficult. Maybe around seventy?”

… kaveh is speechless, and looked at him like seriously? Before covering his face with his side bangs from embarrassment.

Changing the subject, “let’s binge watch this series even if you said it’s mid I like it so, you are forced to watch it with me.”

“Alright.” Alhaitham Smirked, “let’s stay up late”

Fruits, snacks and ice cream. One blanket over their laps and legs, the curtains open and the sky apparent. Despite sleepiness kaveh didn’t want to turn off now, it’s too good of a time to come to a halt and he needs all the company and distraction to chase away the earlier event with the party.

Alhaitham tagged along because of course, they both fought the sleep and stayed up. He start picking on the show plot and it’s actually interesting, he had to admit. When his hands are free and engrossed in the show, he slung an arm around kaveh and softly patting his shoulder, the repeated action made kaveh even cozier and he almost fell asleep before alhaitham nudged his shoulder, “look outside.”

Kaveh did and he saw the first sunbeam strings of dawn through the glass door of the balcony, but what’s more beautiful is the clouds painted with glowing gold and dim blue as shadow, the hue of light is ethereal and if heaven doesn’t look like that he doesn’t know what could.

He went for the tv remote and paused the show. “I’ll put the tea on the stove then let’s go outside in the balcony.”

In the balcony they leaned over the railings staring up and ahead at the sky. kaveh drew a deep breath of fresh early morning, the flowers he add to the black tea pot had strong aroma and it filled their space. The sky is of different colors, yellow to purple to blue, and he is amazed at how seamless the blend between these different colors when they are not even analogous.

Two cups of tea were ready, the birds start singing and alhaitham is by his side with lazy eyes drinking from his mug with the falcon logo. He felt the need to engrave this moment in mind, to recall it always and never forget, to look back in time and see that life is worth it and it’s times like these that he strive for.

The next time they went to university, they heard that noah was sent to the office of student affairs cause he hit that offender. Kaveh panicked and looked for him with alhaitham till they got him, “what happened?!” Kaveh asked holding noah’s sleeves.

Noah had the carefree to smile like he did no trouble when he is in one, “just delivered a couple of punches which I believe deserve more but the office had other thought, they said if there was no ‘verbal’ or ‘physical’ assault then it’s not valid” his smile turned into something of rage and annoyance.

Kaveh never saw noah this angry even when he is still smiling, it’s something terrifying.. “why did you hit him??”

Alhaitham interjected and crossed his arms, “cause he deserved it, wish I could sent some punches too.”

Kaveh turned to alhaitham with furrow brows “hey, no violence now.”

Alhaitham fixed him with stare, “kaveh, an offender with assault needs hell coming their way, I don’t care about the consequences, I’ll take them. The university won’t do anything as noah stated, and someone had to discipline that despicable of a man.”

Noan hands came to cradle kaveh’s to reassure him, “don’t worry about me, I got to write a notice and that’s it. More importantly is that you are ok now. That must scared you.” He tilt his head and spoke softly.

Kaveh looked back at him and his eyes almost teared, from the care he is getting and his friend standing up for him and worry for him. So he went for a hug and noah reached his arms around him immediately.

Alhaitham gaped his mouth at the sight and went to pull kaveh away, noah is giving alhaitham a smirk and a knowing look before letting go of kaveh. “Get the hell away from him”

“Noah, thank you! And I am sorry.” kaveh whined and let alhaitham pull him to his chest. Arms around protecting.

“No need but alright, let’s put that behind. when are we going to that café slash library with the girls?” Noah reminded them.

Kaveh perked up at the mention of their outing, “oh right, That would be next saturday morning, see you there then!”

Noah came to ruffle kaveh’s hair before alhaitham almost bit his hand so he retracted, “alright then, see ya two there!” And off he goes.

-

Alhaitham got his rut—and it’s a revolutionary revelation for kaveh that got his brain fried and slow to process the fairly obvious coming event. but given he had never witnessed alhaitham in one, he forgot the guy had them.

Alhaitham is in his room right now and his door locked, putting huge emphasis on not stepping inside that room, ever. And as for food, he would get a whole day course meal in the morning when kaveh is still asleep.

So kaveh start sulking, how come alhaitham gets to take care of him and inviting himself over to kaveh or accepting his advances easily (despite it only being a hug while sleeping), but not letting kaveh do the same for him during his rut!

And he is also curious. what is alhaitham like during this time? He heard grunting like someone struggling. and before he locked himself in the confines of his room, he didn’t look too well, with visible pain and sweat dripping fever.

He knocked at the door by the third day. his loneliness got the better of him, since college started and living together they never got separated for even one day. And eating alone in the kitchen felt wrong, going to school alone also felt weird.

A deep and dry voice came as if his throat closed and can barely move the vocal cords, “what do you want, kaveh?”

Kaveh stuttered at the question, “just wanted to check on you, do you need help from me?”

“No, you can’t.” His response is immediate and voice firm leaving no room for objection.

Kaveh was getting upset, “why?? I probably can, pheromones or just seeing each other may do it”

Silent fall for a few seconds then alhaitham sighed and said, “It’s not a good idea, It won’t be as easy as your heat. yours is less intense than mine, I can not guarantee your safety.” That should do it, it’s logical and outright shutting any protest, he closed his eyes to try and go back to sleep.

What he did not anticipate is the weak muffled voice from behind the door, kaveh saying “what if it’s alright..?” Kaveh had his hands in fists over the door. he himself didn’t think of what he said, what had left his mouth, he really just wants to be close to alhaitham right now it consumes his mind and being.

Alhaitham is shocked and he sprint up to a sitting position peering at the door with confusion, there is a voice at the back of his mind urging him forward and is ecstatic by kaveh’s invite, but he ignores it.

“Kaveh, it’s not right..at the moment.” He can’t let it happen while being influenced by rut and pheromones out of their minds and not thinking straight, that might lead to a horrifying result.

“But..!”

“Kaveh” he said the name firm but gentle. It made some clarity wash over kaveh and deflate, embarrassed by his delirious words.

“I-Im sorry, I don’t know what got into me to say that..”

“It’s fine, I get it,” haitham scratched his head looking away even when kaveh couldn’t see him. “I would go for that if I didn’t have the restraint to hold back..it’s just, not the right time.”

Kaveh is pondering the words like puzzle that has hidden meaning but he was afraid of stepping into that territory of thinking, so he agreed and pulled away reluctantly, “right, then get it done soon, I don’t like not seeing you.”

alhaitham hear the steps moving away from the door and an ache settles in his heart by making kaveh go far from him, when there hasn’t been a time where he wanted him so bad to be close as of now. Desperation and longing clutching at his mind and body.

Kaveh sat by the sofa hugging the pillow and not able to ignore how their apartment bathed in forest smell. he rethinks his words and hides his heated face from embarrassment in the pillow. He is pretty sure that the words uttered were from the effect of alhaitham’s pheromones on him but he also can’t pretend that it wasn’t a thought from his conscious mind. Just shouldn’t be voiced out.

In his moment of crisis he heard the notification sound.

haitham

I want to see you too, soon.
4:16 pm

Kaveh resume his routine because life doesn’t stop for you, it was evident his down feelings in university and the quietness at home, he can’t help it when he isn’t used to being alone and not someone waiting for you at the door scolding you for being late to head out, or someone getting you your favourite treats and dishes without being asked to, or the first face you see when you wake up with a mug in hand and groggy good morning greetings.

Kaveh sat at their little dining table on his phone with hunched down back, his lunch half eaten, and not in the mood to do school work, or for anything if that matter.

Then he hears a soft click of door being open. It’s afternoon and if alhaitham was still in rut he wouldn’t have gone out. So kaveh sat still with his back facing the bedrooms. shuffling of clothes as someone moving and rubbery slippers steps behind, a shadow of human figure cast over kaveh and on the tiles below, arms came around enveloping kaveh ever so gently and bending down so the head is resting over kaveh’s shoulder.

Kaveh draw a breath at the familiar touch and present, his eyes softened and his posture relaxed, his hands fumble to touch the arms around him, his head leaned over the other head and nestled in the hair fluff. this is home, in every sense and feeling to the word. And he is finally home.

“You big oomph finally deciding to get out”

Alhaitham’s hand hold onto kaveh’s sweater sleeve, “I..feared, so I took my time. Sorry and miss you madly” the last words sounding desperate.

Kaveh soothed alhaitham’s clenched hand with pats, thinking.. “feared..huh, can’t say the same.”

Alhaitham’s head rise to look at the face at his side while his chin is resting over his shoulder, “do you remember what I said..?” He said hesitantly.

Kaveh blinked few times and his mind immediately think of that particular phrase stuck in his mind for the past couple of days, if this was it or not he nods anyway. “Not at the moment.”

Alhaitham is silent and his gaze fixed, making kaveh squirm in his seat from nervousness. His mind turned upside down with incomprehension as alhaitham nuzzled his nose at kaveh’s cheek affectionately and without holding back, his lips caressing the skin and kaveh mind stopped at the feeling of said lips. His face went crimson color of flush and speechless.

He feels phantom of smile against his cheek then alhaitham amused voice came, “very clever.”

“Huh? What are you..? you are making fun of me again! Asshole.”

-

Alas the long awaited hang out with the new group of friends came after postponing for several reasons. The two head together and met the rest at the café with the mini library inside, shelves of books scattered at different corners and comfortable seatings for a cozy reading experience.

Alhaitham was lost in these shelves browsing through the titles and his eyes catching at familiar and intriguing ones. The four others sat at a table, kaveh tried to also go check the books but was stopped by the others who seem to have a motive in mind.

Kaveh slumped back in his seat with raised eyebrow at yaqut hand encircling his arm, she is also wearing a mischievous smile like awaiting for the tea gossip to be spilled, except kaveh doesn’t know why all eyes fell on him, expectant.

He smile back nervously, “is there something..?”

Noah sighed but he seem to be in this too, “just life updates.”

Kaveh cross his arms, “it is not like I would have major updates this quick, i just saw you yesterday.”

Qamar chid in “can’t you recall any intriguing event recently?”

Kaveh is suspicious of what they want to peel out of him, squirm in his seat as he remembers the embarrassing memory from a few days ago hoping no one can somehow read his mind.

“Alhaitham didn’t turn up to any classes last week, which means.. his rut must be it!” With a flicker of her fingers yaqut said in triumph like she solved a mystery.

Kaveh groan at the mention of the one thing he doesn’t want to be brought up, looked away at the figure of alhaitham standing at a distant and his cheeks reddened and that didn’t escape the peering eyes of his friends and a playful whistle left yaqut.

“So what? Nothing of what you guys think happened.” He threw an accused finger at them. true but how that played out still has weight to it.

Noah nonchalantly fiddled with the cup, “the cuddles of your last heat would suggest further development for upcoming heat or rut.”

The girls gasped at the new information they heard just now, getting unnecessarily more excited and elated like how they get talking about a situationship over and over again and it’s mere eye contact.

Kaveh stutter as he rumbled out protests towards noah for the enclosed talk he shared with noah when his mind was lost and he needed to talk it out with a friend. which at the time, noah sighed and said “get together already” and kaveh dismissing his opinion, going back to his turmoil state of confusion.

“Even then! It was nothing. I was very distressed and alhaitham helped, naturally.” Kaveh feigned obliviousness, when he himself thought there could be more to it.

“There is nothing natural about this kaveh! But okay, real talk now,” yaqut inched closer to him and sat comfortably with easy smile like reassuring him with gentle tone, “I know you think of him as a great friend and possibly a family. You don’t necessarily need more labels to that bond you share, but.. don’t hold back. Let yourself indulge, be bold, claim what you desire. And see results you won’t regret, be it good or bad, trying and honesty is never a waste, and I believe alhaitham to be smart enough to understand you and won’t let you go for being true to yourself.”

Kaveh breath hitched and he felt a lump up his throat, stinging hotness in his eyes but it would be embarrassing to shed tears for being moved by words, for a push he tried hard to keep locked securely away and to wither, forgotten in depths no one would reach for, especially not himself. To indulge holds with it great risks. he lied, he said he doesn’t share alhaitham’s sentiment of fear…when he is in fact terrified of messing up.

Kaveh voice strained with how difficult to withhold desire from the comfort zone he kept his entire life. “I-I don’t know, really.. I don’t know if this is just my instinct or my mind playing tricks on me or something genuine.” He looked down at his hands forming fists over his lap. “This curse in disguise of turning his perfect match just to stumble over a turmoil of emotions that I can’t make sense of..!”

Everyone was silent and their eyes turned softer in solidarity, yaqut hand came to envelope his fisted one, and continued in her gentle tone. “I did not let the current stream of expectations to match me with the nearest most available alpha out there. I had my own choices to make, out of my own volition. I choose who I want, not just because it was the right time or place” she shook her head, “but because I want.”

Noah add, “we are still true and genuine as long as we who decide to partake in that path and feel happiness following it. you don’t need to be so hard on yourself.”

At this moment Alhaitham decided to return to their table with a handful of books and he was puzzled raising an eyebrow as he sees the state of distress kaveh was in, and he quickly took his place by kaveh’s other side enveloping his side. “What have you all told him to look like that??”

Qamar couldn’t hold her snicker, noah resume drinking his coffee with an eye roll for the obvious affection Alhaitham holds towards kaveh and it would be real easy to just confess.

Yaqut looked away scratching her cheek in nervousness, “solving some life crisis issues.”

Alhaitham worried and looked back at kaveh who sighed and raised his head giving an unimpressed look towards yaqut, yes her words were most appreciated but he would like it to be kept a secret from alhaitham. “Nothing concerning hayi. they just gave me advice like always, given my new situation and all.” He wasn’t lying but averting the truth.

“you need help? You can ask me.” Alhaitham ever the dutifully presence offer.

Kaveh smile, a genuine and big smile lifting up his spirit. Even now, alhaitham is still offering his everything for the sake of kaveh after his endless, boundless help and effort from the day he knew him, a simpler time where his judgement wasn’t coated by mist and complicated variables in the play. But then again, does it really have to be complicated?.. it’s alhaitham after all and if there is one thing he is more sure about…is him.

The smile warmed alhaitham’s heart, and melted when kaveh grabbed one of the books he brought and draped himself leaning on alhaitham’s chest side with ease. the action took his mind away from pressing further about their previous chat. and so they fell in their familiarity of sweet intimacy that doesn’t get voiced out but tugs at their heart strings playing melodies shared between two alone.

Hours passed and they head out of the café walking the streets back home. Yaqut intertwined her arm around kaveh’s pulling him away from alhaitham side which he is glued to, alhaitham let him go but his expression betrayed his discontent.

Kaveh was grateful, they can continue their discussion from earlier and after he had a moment of thinking and diving through his depths of perception and reflection of his wants, to understand himself and weigh his options.

“I think it’s clearer than I used to think. It’s simple, really. I want him. Wholly and everything, want him in ways that can’t be platonic, caging him and surrounding him with my walls cause I want him as close, fearing he might end up with another where I no longer be welcomed. I want us to be together forever. I want us to stay like this but also…I yearn, and crave for something I hadn’t put my finger on yet, but I’m sure it’s there.”

“Can’t you just summarise that by love?”

Kaveh shrinked on himself, “is…is that it?” What is love? Didn’t he already love his best friend? They are everything to each other. he can’t bear be away from him and alhaitham seems to feel the same. And if he is being honest with himself, they already look like a couple. But then again, love..

His face heated up while pondering the word, it’s implication, his feelings seem clearer with it, finding the diagnosis for the symptoms. His mind flashes memories and scenes from his past all containing Alhaitham in moments that stole away his breath and heart to pound fast. Was that it? Maybe he felt love long ago but didn’t realise it, or rather chase away any sliver of crawling feeling of love towards his friend in the hope of not ruining what they have. And things came to now, where their skirting around it won’t hold on much longer, falling head first on each other.

Falling, like the shooting stars holding his wishes, his mind conjuring images of the person he dears most when his eyes closed and blowing birthday candles. Soothing presence like the moon cradling him gently through nightfall.

-

December painted the streets and shops in red and pines, holiday and end term season, family gatherings and warmth of indoor heaters and blankets enveloping the house from the scorching cold out.

It’s their first year of living away from their hometown, even so, holiday celebrations must be spent with the family so they drove back just before new year.

Back in kaveh’s family house, alhaitham and his grandma visited at night before midnight. everywhere were lively waiting for the fireworks display, but from the comfort of their home, it truly warms the body and the soul.

The two lovebirds as kaveh’s mom joked sat together (impossibly close) by the couch, passing on cakes and chatting quietly between themselves. They talk about household chores and future plans, overly domestic for two college students.

As the clock hit the twelve mark, fireworks erupted in the sky, they watched the show from the tv but even outside you can hear crackling sounds. So kaveh stands pulling alhaitham by the hand and taking him upstair towards the rooftop, still holding his hand.

As they opened the door to the roof and looked up in the sky, dazzling colors and shine lighting the dimly night with lively shades. Kaveh ran with twinkling eyes crocking his neck to peer at the brilliance of painted sky.

Alhaitham followed suit albeit forcibly since his hand is still strongly in the hold of his star on earth. Looking up with his other hand in his pocket, the cold weather is not a joke, but he is happy and glad to have shared this beaming moment with his one and only.

“What did you wish for in the new year?” Kaveh asked as his eyes trained over the glowing face from the fireworks of his other. Kaveh eyes shone as bright, from anticipation, longing, and love. Kaveh wished for the other’s wish to include him, in any way is fine, but him.

And consequently alhaitham’s eyes met his in a fierce competitive longing and simply stated, “you.” to which no other word had stolen the breath from kaveh in this way, and his face glowing natural colors alongside the fireworks.

“You already have me.” Kaveh could not but blurt that out in his daze and fried nerves.

A chuckle leading to a smile on alhaitham’s face as he sees the effect he inflicted on the poor kaveh, “just to make sure.”

Kaveh mind returned to function and huffed at the chuckle despite how endearing it was for him, “can’t you elaborate?”

“What more can I say? It all encompasses in the mere word of you. Or maybe I should say kaveh.” He tilts his head teasingly.

“So you named your wish kaveh?”

“Precisely.”

Bold, what kaveh thinks staring in disbelief, his face is practically radiating warmth from the hotness of his cheeks, but shiver of cold run down his body as wind blows by.

Alhaitham took notice, discarding himself from his sweater in favour to drape it over kaveh shoulders, “hurry and take your photos so we can go downstairs.”

Kaveh felt the warmth enveloping his shoulders, not just alhaitham’s sweaters but also the strong arm and hands around kaveh’s shoulders grounding him and adding more warmth. If he was brave enough…he would kiss him right here and now. But he digress.

Kaveh did take his photos, of fireworks as it decorates the lovely sky alongside his deared moon and stars, maybe kaveh’s love for night sky can be traced to his sentimental metaphor of resembling alhaitham to the moon, his quiet tranquility and comforting casted light.

He also forced alhaitham to pose or stand still so he can take photos of him, and selfies for them both. Afterwards they got downstairs to the living room, alhaitham’s grandma announce as she sees them coming, “alright boys, we shall head back now, it is already quite late. Today was very lovely.” She smile and direct her gaze to kaveh’s parents, thanking them for their hospitality.

Alhaitham face dropped with disappointment at the thought of leaving kaveh and sleeping in his grandma’s home. Before university it was the norms for them to sleep in separate houses, which should be the same as now, but he can’t shake off this awful feeling of deliberately sleeping at a place where kaveh is not there.

Kaveh was better at schooling his face keeping up a smile despite underlying upset. He turned his face to alhaitham as a reassurance but it made alhaitham even more fond and not wanting to part.

As his grandmother stand by the door, alhaitham walked slowly towards her before deciding defermently, standing to tell her, “teta, can we stay the night here?”

It wouldn’t be the first time they stay the night, but last time they did that was a long time ago. Alhaitham had this little blush as he asked that, hesitant in his tone, but eager nonetheless.

“Y-yes! It’s late, and we would be more than happy to spend more time in company.” Kaveh join in after being stunned for a moment then was filled with excitement so he got to support alhaitham’s suggestion to persuade the grandmother.

Kaveh mother smiled too standing next to kaveh with her hand over her son shoulder, “we have a guest room for you while alhaitham can sleep in kaveh’s room like old times.” And when no one was looking she winked at alhaitham’s grandmother.

So his grandma sighed fondly shaking her head in surrender, “alright, alright. you youngsters can have your way.” And turned back to lounge at the sofa, her knitting needles already in hand.

Alhaitham turned to kaveh, and well…their faces were blushing by the not so planed alliance they formed to convince teta to stay. in their minds they knew there was a deep aching feeling at the prospect of distance between them, how could you sleep soundly knowing your other half is far away from you? It could very much be the instinct part of them acting up, already claiming before words were spoken.

As the grownups turned to sleep, did the youngsters head to kaveh’s room. Alhaitham remembers the times he came here, when he helped kaveh study during his heat and other times, they came a long way and it’s in a way nostalgic.

His thoughts were cut off by kaveh’s voice, “okay, here is pajamas for you, and we will be sleeping on my bed.” Cut to the chase alright.

Alhaitham accepted the clothes and raised an eyebrow, “I can just take the floor.”

“No can do.”

“But-“

Kaveh rested his hands over his hips in disapproval, “don’t act like we haven’t shared a bed before.”

Alhaitham crossing his arms, like competing to prove his point. “While you were in heat, and the end justifies the means.”

Kaveh roll his eyes and start sulking and pouting, “then it would be even easier without pheromones influence. have you forgotten?” He locked eyes with alhaitham, “you told me it’s not at the moment in rut, now we’re clear.”

Alhaitham was silent for a moment gauging his options and it lead to a question…is now the right time..?

He peered up into kaveh stare and saw determination with underlying nervousness…does kaveh think the same as him?

“Alright.” As simple as he always stating.

Kaveh exhale in relief and his shoulders relaxed, then he actually comprehended what he offered and shyness dawned on him, “I-I’ll go change in the bathroom.” And off he goes.

They got ready to bed, and tucked in under the covers, staring at the ceiling with open eyes in darkness with only moonlight illuminating the room. “Kaveh.”

Flinching, “y-yes?” Kaveh clenched at the end of the blanket near his chin. Sweating buckets of nerves.

Alhaitham turned his head to the side watching kaveh’s every move, and softened his eyes and tone. “If you are nervous we can talk about it later-“

Kaveh turned his head too to the side and his vermilion eyes were shining and with more confidence, “no. I-I want to hear it now..” I am sick of waiting, he wants to say.

Alhaitham smiled at that, seeing kaveh’s face this close with his dazzling eyes, and laying next to him in one bed. his heart beating picked up in speed as he got lost in these eyes, a sight better than fireworks.

And in his trance, he reached a hand to hold kaveh’s clenched one, and at that kaveh hand relaxed in his hold, still staring at each other. The whole cosmos and galaxies fit in the little space between them, in the slots of the fantasy they created. Of space and planets, of celestial dome, and dancing among the stars.

Of quiet sentiment and intimacy, in gentle hold, in comfort and content, of longing and yearning, of thousand and one words unspoken, yet heard.

Founding your other, calling your lover by all names, and even beyond what’s known. to eternal peace and heavens, oasis for a dying thirst. for whom your destiny draw star constellation and guide you through that path.

Lost then found, fallen then held. captivated by entice and became captive, not asking for release.

Alhaitham leaned over, his face buried in kaveh’s sun hue hair, eyes closed feeling his heart and mind blend in one distinct flow of emotion, swirling through his soul like veils moved by breeze. “None but you, the core and destination of all my being. For the longest time, even before you turned to omega, I had it for you. My love and affection for you, my dear. I love you, effortlessly and endlessly, my kaveh.”

Kaveh captured every word right into his heart, erupting with adoration and thrill, his eyes did not wait one second before a dam broke and his tears fell like dew. To which alhaitham arms came around him, leading kaveh head to his chest in embrace.

Kaveh shudder in silent sobs, and alhaitham grant him the time to settle and pick himself up again. And when his breathing evened out and his cheeks stained with dried tears did he pull back to look up and alhaitham heart seized at the sight.

Kaveh was embarrassed for taking a while, crying when he should be elated, and say the words he mostly desire. But his plans were thrown out the window, for he couldn’t understand his reaction but guess it was the suppressed feelings finally washed with relief and utmost happiness.

So he smiles, big one with crescent eyes. His hand came to cradle alhaitham cheek, with his face so close he could feel the fanning breath, “alhaitham, my dearest. I love you too, to an end of a world. I-I also had it for you for a long time, don’t know when exactly, but I am certain I did.”

Alhaitham mirrors his smile, placing his hand over kaveh’s that is caressing his cheek. “I know, your eyes tell it all.”

Kaveh pinched his cheek with glare (though it looks comical with tears remnant), “are you teasing me in this kind of situation??”

“It won’t be us without it.”

Kaveh huffs, “hmph, fair point.”

Silent fall, their eyes twinkling with dancing light reflect on the irises. Kaveh eyes momentarily fell on alhaitham’s lips, staring with awe, then lifted his eyes meeting his lover’s. That was enough signal for alhaitham to lean in slowly, like stepping into something new yet exciting, hesitant yet eager.

His lips touched kaveh’s lips, his first thought was how soft it feels, how amazingly addicting wanting to press further, venturing to newer depths, and loosening up to your wants. And he did, stupidly going forward and pressing kaveh’s head back on the pillow as he kisses him silly.

Kaveh hands went for alhaitham’s shoulders, one moved up to his hair locks, fingers swimming through soft short strands. his brows draw together in concentration of the unfamiliar yet wondrous sensation of kissing, reciprocating the eagerness, moving their lips like sea waves over the other.

They part for air breathing heavily, and eyes half open lost in daze. Then there was a smile, stretching kaveh glistened red lips, both hands travel up to alhaitham’s pale silvery hair ruffling it endearingly, enjoying how his fingers move loosely through the short and fluffy hair.

Alhaitham on top of him peering down with fixed eyes and raised eyebrow in question, “you would rather play with my hair than kiss me?”

Kaveh laughs in the surreal state he feels, it’s like he got drunk from one kiss and the happiness of his feelings being finally out and reciprocated. “I always dreamt of being able to ruffle your hair freely.”

Alhaitham huffs softly with little blush looking fondly which seeped into his voice, “I would allow it even before.”

“Yeah but I was shy. Now I don’t have to hold back.” His hand caresses the side of alhaitham’s face, relishing in the advantages of touching his man to his heart content. “No need for excuses or waiting for moments so I can appreciate you.”

Alhaitham leaned down laying his head next to kaveh’s on the pillow, and his body dropped on kaveh’s side after holding himself atop, relaxing while staring at his lover from close distance. “I like that, do all you want.”

Kaveh stared back with smile, “don’t regret that later cause I can be really clingy.”

Alhaitham kissed kaveh’s cheek lovingly and kaveh could feel the smile over his cheek and the amused tone in alhaitham’s voice as he say, “more than welcomed.”

And they drift to peaceful and light sleep like a weight off their shoulders after voicing out their sacred and deep buried feelings.