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A cold, honest, and logical man is what most people saw Alhaitham as, and that wasn’t entirely incorrect. He was honest and logical, but certainly not cold. Especially when it came to his golden blond, pretty eyed, passionate man of a roommate and former classmate. 

In their younger years, Alhaitham would constantly try to keep his senior’s attention on him. Whether that’d be with small gifts, subtle touches, or constantly asking for help with his studies. This worked most of the time, because how could Kaveh say no to his adorable junior? 

Alhaitham reveled in the attention Kaveh gave him. Knowing that out of everyone this pretty boy wanted to be around, it was him. Out of everyone that he could’ve talked to and spent time with, he chose Alhaitham.

Alhaitham loved that fact.

But now, after everything that had happened between them, and their respective work schedules, it was a little harder to keep Kaveh on him. The blond was almost always cooped up in his room, working tirelessly on designs for his clients. Or he wouldn’t give Alhaitham the time of day, either brushing him off or walking away. Which didn’t leave too much room for alone time between the two. 

Honestly? It made Alhaitham sick to his stomach. Seeing the bright smiles and loud laughs Kaveh would give to others, when all he got was a scoff or a sarcastic remark. It was a little pathetic to admit, but he just wanted his senior’s eyes on him.

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“That’s not how you make biryani,” Alhaitham said from the kitchen entryway. He leaned against the wall with his arms crossed as he watched Kaveh prepare dinner. “The heat is too high, you’ll burn the meat.” 

“What? No it’s not!” Kaveh spat back, glaring at Alhaitham. “It’s supposed to be high so the meat is crispy, you would know that if you knew anything about cooking.”

”Are you saying you know everything about cooking?” The taller replied.

“No, I’m saying that I know how to cook better than you do.” Kaveh rolled his eyes, continuing to toss the pork around in the pan.

Alhaitham let a small smirk come to his face. “Oh, really? What mushrooms are meant to be used in a potato boat?”

Kaveh was silent for a minute, biting the inside of his cheek. “It ranges with whoever is preparing it”

“Wrong. The mushroom meant to be used in a potato boat is rukkhashava mushrooms.” Alhaitham said, walking into the kitchen and sitting down at the dining table.

“Oh wow, the Acting Grand Sage knows more about potato boats than I do. You’re so impressive, Alhaitham.” Kaveh said in an incredibly sarcastic tone, with a slight edge at the end of each word. Almost like he wanted to cut into Alhaitham’s chest with it.

“Oh, and you know what else?…” As Alhaitham listened to Kaveh’s complaining, he let out a small huff, almost a laugh if you squinted. He didn’t particularly enjoy bickering with Kaveh like this, but if that’s what it took to keep Kaveh on him? He’d do it all day.

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A few days later, Alhaitham is, surprisingly, out getting drinks. Kaveh sat next to him whilst Tighnari and Cyno sat on the other side of the table. Cyno was going on about getting Collei into TCG, and the benefits of the card game. Tighnari rolled his eyes at the topic, taking another long sip of his drink.

Kaveh on the other hand, was actually intently listening, and even adding points to Cyno’s statement. Granted, he was drunk. But Cyno definitely wasn’t going to turn down the support. 

“See, Nari? Kaveh gets it, the creative he is”

Kaveh let out a small laugh, taking a sip of wine. “But really, I do think it could- *hic* help Collei with her…uh, problem solving skills”

“Problem solving skills?” Tighnari questioned. “Her problem solving skills are fine, she doesn’t need a card game to help with those.” he said as he brushed a hand over his ear.

Alhaitham watched the three bicker, though he couldn’t care less about TCG or Collei’s problem solving skills. Truthfully, he was in his own head, trying to figure out how to get Kaveh’s attention back on him, whilst also stealing glances at the man.

After a few minutes, Alhiatham put a hand over the rim of Kaveh’s drink and picked it up, pulling it away from him. 

“Wait! Alhaitham! Stop it! I wasn’t done with that!” Kaveh said, his tone almost whiny as he tried reaching for the glass.

“No, Kaveh, you’ve drunk enough tonight. Your hangover is going to be even worse if you continue.” Alhaitham explained, holding the glass just out of the blond’s reach.

“Nooo… Alhaitham! You’re such a pain!” Kaveh groaned, putting his hands on Alhaitham’s chest and shaking his shoulders. 

Cyno and Tighnari watched the scene, with Cyno letting out a small chuckle and Tighnari sighing. 

“How about you take Kaveh home, Alhaitham? We can clean up here” Tighnari offered. “Oh, and don’t worry about the tab, Cyno will pay it”

“What? Who said I’m paying?” Cyno asked, looking over at Tighnari. 

“I did.” Tighnari said, standing up. 

Cyno sighed, taking out a bag of mora.

“Oh don’t sigh, you just got paid. I don’t want to hear it.” Tighnari retorted.

At that point, Alhaitham had already made it to the entrance of Lambad’s with Kaveh’s arm slung over his shoulders. 

“I don’t wanna go home…” Kaveh groaned. “I’m not a child, Haitham…” 

Alhaitham looked over at Kaveh, his eyes a little wide. 

Haitham. Kaveh used to call him that all time when they were in the Akademyia together. These days, Alhaitham doesn’t hear it unless Kaveh gets really drunk. There’s always been a switch in his brain that makes him go soft at the nickname. Specifically the way Kaveh says it. It rolls right off his tongue, like it’s supposed to be in his mouth, like he’s the only person in the world who has the right to say it.

And truthfully? He does. Alhaitham would never let anyone else call him Haitham. Kaveh is his sole exception.

————

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Over the next few days, Alhaitham would do little things to annoy Kaveh. Not to make him mad, just to slightly inconvenience him so he would say something to Alhaitham.

Day one: He “accidently” grabbed Kaveh’s key along with his own that morning.

Loud steps echoed through the halls of The House of Daena. A few students and scholars looked over at the noise. The man responsible for the noise looked almost angry, but not quite. As if he was trying to hide the fact. Blond hair bounced with every step, jewelry clinging together like wind chimes.

A man walked up to Kaveh, calling him. “Excuse me, sir? Is something the matter? Do you need any assistance?” he said as he made his way over to Kaveh, looking a little concerned.

Kaveh looked the man up and down before taking a breath and speaking. 

“I’m sorry, I’m here to see the Acting Grand Sage, is he in?” Kaveh asked, giving the biggest fake smile he could muster.

The man nodded. “Yes, sir, he should be up in his office.” he answered. “Would you like me to escort you there?”

Kaveh answered quickly, quicker than he would’ve liked to. “Yes please, if you wouldn’t mind” he said with a small laugh. 

The man smiled and nodded, beginning to lead Kaveh to the elevator. “It’s no trouble at all, sir. Right this way”

When the two arrived in front of Alhaitham’s office doors, Kaveh couldn’t help but start thinking. ‘Who does this jerk think he is? Taking my keys like this. He knows what he’s doing.’

“Sir Alhaitham? You have a visitor.” The man called out, knocking on Alhaitham’s door.

After a few seconds of silence, Kaveh heard that familiar, blood boiling voice. “Send them in.” The man looked over to Kaveh and gestured towards the door before excusing himself and walking away.

Once he was out of view, Kaveh took a deep breath, and pulled the door open. 

“Alhaitham.”

“Kaveh. What brings you here?” Alhaitham asked. 

He was sitting at his desk, forearms laid on the dark stained wood. Stacks of papers and books decorated the sides of his desk, a few stray papers peeking out of the stacks.

Kaveh rolled his eyes. “Oh please, don’t play dumb with me. Give me my key, I know you have it” he said, closing the door behind him and walking further into the room. He stopped in front of Alhaitham’s desk, his hand extended with his palm open.

Alhaitham looked at Kaveh’s hand, then shrugged. “I don’t have it,” he said. “maybe you left it on your nightstand?”

“You are such a jerk! Give me my key, Alhaitham, I know you have it!” Kaveh exclaimed, his volume on the rise.

“Kaveh, please, take a breath. People might hear you and assume I’m getting robbed” Alhaitham replied, leaning back in his chair and crossing his arms. “Just stay here for a bit. I won’t be long. After I’m done here we can go home and you can look for your key.”

Kaveh almost continued to berate Alhaitham. But ultimately, he let his hand drop, along with his shoulders and a sliver of his pride.

“Fine. Don’t take too long, please. I need to get back to the house and finish my commission for that prude lady and her gazebo.” He said, taking a seat on the small couch pressed against the wall. 

“Prude lady? What did she do for you to call her a prude? Not too much I’m assuming.” Alhaitham commented, looking back down at the papers in front of him and continuing his work

“Shut up. Well, we met up at Puspa Cafe, right? And she was incredibly rude to the staff. She kept yelling at them that they got her order wrong. She reordered about fifteen times.” Kaveh started, leaning back onto the couch.

“So, as a good staff member does, this poor worker had to retake her order and take her verbal assault every time she opened her mouth. God, her voice sounded like nails on a chalkboard, it was horrible. We didn’t even get into the blueprints of her stupid gazebo until the sun began to set! I mean, how ridiculous is that?” The blond ranted, flinging his arms and hands around in the air as he talked.

Alhiatham nodded and hummed along as Kaveh ranted, occasionally dropping a quick quip at Kaveh. 

Around an hour after Kaveh started talking, he stopped. Silence filled the office. 

“Kaveh? Did your vocal chords finally give up on you?” Alhaitham asked, looking over at the couch. Only, the sight made him go quiet.

Kaveh was fast asleep, his cheek pressed up against his shoulder. His hair had fallen over his forehead and covered one of his eyes. 

Alhaitham stopped for a minute, taking in the scene. It reminded him of earlier days, when the two were back in the Akademyia. The pair often studied late into the night at the library, and Kaveh often fell asleep there.

One night, Kaveh’s head fell right onto little Alhaitham’s shoulder. It made his heart pump faster than it ever had before, and it made his face hotter than the Desert of Hadramaveth. 

He remembered his hands getting all sweaty and he sat as still as he possibly could, as to not wake the sleeping beauty on his shoulder.

Alhaitham takes that as one of the moments that solidified his love for Kaveh. The weight of Kaveh’s head on his shoulder, his golden hair curled over Alhaitham’s pink cheeks and lips, and the warmth Kaveh radiated. It was a warmth very little people possessed, but Kaveh had it.

Alhaitham wanted to have that warmth for the rest of his days.

Now, seeing his senior sleeping upon that sofa, Alhaitham’s heart warmed. He took a deep breath and gathered his paperwork. He could finish it some other time. 

He stood up from his desk and walked over to Kaveh, staring for a moment.

Alhaitham then dug something up. Courage to do something he had longed to do again. He lifted his hand and brushed Kaveh’s hair out of his face, revealing the perfect, sun-kissed and blushy skin underneath. Alhaitham kept his hand there, his thumb ever so softly grazing Kaveh’s cheek.

The office was quiet, the orange color of the sunset spilling through the windows. A few rays of this light shone on Kaveh’s face and hair, illuminating him and making the man look more ethereal than he already was.

‘How beautiful. The sunset shining onto the sun itself.’ Alhaitham thought.

He took a deep breath, reluctingly letting his hand fall from Kaveh’s hair and onto his shoulder. “Kaveh, wake up. Let’s go home” Alhaitham whispered, gently shaking Kaveh’s shoulder.

The blond grumbled, his head giving a small shake before he readjusted his body and quickly fell back asleep.

After a few more unsuccessful attempts at waking the man up, Alhaitham sighed. He knew what he had to do, but he definitely wasn’t opposed. 

He gently slid one hand underneath Kaveh’s thighs, the other behind his back. He picked Kaveh up with relative ease, making sure to be as careful as possible. Alhaitham then crouched down to pick Kaveh’s suitcase up, holding the bag with four fingers.

Alhaitham looked down at Kaveh, his head resting against Alhaitham’s chest, his breathing soft. He felt that familiar pumping in his heart, and his face heating up.

He took a deep breath, beginning to make his way out of his office and down the elevator.

Most of the people at The House of Daena had left by now, only leaving a handful of tired students and staff members. Some of the students  and staff members watched as the Acting Grand Sage carried a man in his arms through the halls. 

Alhaitham paid them no mind. They didn’t know just how much this man meant to him. They didn’t know Kaveh, or that Kaveh was his sun. 

They knew nothing of the two. So Alhaitham continued his way home, Kaveh still fast asleep in his arms.

Once the two arrived home, Alhaitham squatted down to let one arm off of Kaveh for a moment so he could grab his key and unlock the door. Once the door was open, Alhaitham picked Kaveh back up and brought him inside, shutting the door behind him with his foot.

He walked into Kaveh’s room, laying down his senior on his bed. He then reached into his pocket, grabbing Kaveh’s key and laying it on the nightstand. He turned around, giving Kaveh one last look before walking out of the room.

But, a low groan stopped Alhaitham at the door. He looked back at Kaveh, seeing the blond’s eyes, slowly open, then close, then open again before squeezing shut as he brought a hand up to rub them.

“…What…? Alhaitham? What happened?” Kaveh asked, his voice low. 

“You fell asleep on the couch in my office. I carried you here.”

Kaveh’s eyebrows furrowed, and he looked a little bewildered. “You… you what? You carried me?” he asked. “That’s… sweet of you. Thank you, Alhaitham” 

Alhaitham let a small smile spread on his face. “You’re welcome. You were heavy, so I expect some form of compensation.”

Kaveh groaned loudly. “I take back my gratitude. Forget what I just said.” he spoke in a tired tone. “Remind me to never thank you again” he added, rolling over and closing his eyes.

Alhaitham let out a small huff. “Noted. Goodnight, Kaveh”

“Night…”

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Day Two: Alhaitham made Kaveh’s dinner wrong.

One of Kaveh’s favorite dishes was curry shrimp. Yes, it’s a simple dish, but the warm spices and comforting aroma of the meal made the architect drawn to it. Alhaitham had lost count of how many times Kaveh’s made it for the two of them. The blond had the recipe down to a T.

That’s why when Alhaitham offered to cook dinner that night, and after he had started, Kaveh immediately called him out. Just as Alhaitham had hoped.

A warm smell filled the kitchen as Alhaitham cooked, drawing the blond in. “What are you making?” he asked, looking over Alhaitham’s shoulder.

“Curry shrimp.” Alhaitham answered curtly.

Kaveh stared at the cooking setup. “Why do you have two pans?” he asked.

“One to make the sauce and the other to sear the shrimp.” Alhaitham said, chopping up a few garlic cloves. He was about to dump them into the sauce before Kaveh’s hand stopped him.

“Okay first off. You’re not supposed to sear the shrimp. Second off, you’re supposed to add the garlic before you add the sauce.” Kaveh corrected him. 

Alhaitham hummed. “Oh? Well, if you’re so knowledgeable about this then how about you just walk me through it?”

Kaveh laughed, “Oh please, you need me to walk you through it? Seriously?” he asked.

“I just seem to be doing everything wrong, I think only you could save a lost cause like me at this rate, hm?” Alhaitham replied, looking over at Kaveh and leaning in slightly.

Kaveh bit his cheek, looking Alhaitham up and down before a soft red began to dust his cheeks. He then sighed. 

“Fine. Since you’re so helpless I’ll walk you through it, as a good senior should.” Kaveh declared before walking over to one of the cabinets and opening it, pulling out a large pot.

“Put that- actually, keep it out. We’re going to need it.” Kaveh said, setting the pot down on the counter. Alhaitham hummed, watching the architect gather his thoughts.

Kaveh took a deep breath. “Okay, firstly, get that empty pan on medium to low heat. After it’s completely heated, toss the garlic in there and let it roast.” he instructed. “It really brings out the flavor.” 

Alhaitham nodded. “Of course, senior,” he said, giving Kaveh a quick glance before turning up the heat. “Is this enough garlic, senior?” he asked.

Kaveh rolled his eyes, letting out a small laugh. “Shut up. Yes, that’s enough garlic.” he said before putting a hand on his hip. Alhaitham nodded, sliding the garlic into the pan.

Kaveh came up behind Alhaitham, watching his every move. Truly, Alhaitham didn’t mind. He actually loved it. This was exactly what he thought, and hoped, would happen.

“Make sure to keep it moving, you don’t want to burn it.” Kaveh commented. 

“I have it under control. You worry too much, senior” Alhaitham said, his voice low. 

Kaveh’s face went a little red. “Cut that out.”

“Hm? Cut what out?” Alhaitham asked.

“You know what! Don’t play stupid right now” Kaveh exclaimed, glaring at Alhaitham.

“I’m just following what you said. Did you not refer to yourself as my senior earlier?” Alhaitham asked, meeting Kaveh’s gaze.

Kaveh stared at Alhaitham for a moment, his breathing a little heavy. ‘How did my cute little junior end up becoming this jerk???’ He thought to himself.

“Whatever! Call me whatever you want. I don’t care.” Kaveh said, breaking eye contact and stepping away.

Alhaitham hummed. “I think you do care, senior.”

“Shut up!” Kaveh ordered. “Anyways, back to what we were doing before you threw me off.” The blond walked over to their pantry, grabbing a few different spices and seasonings. “Lower the heat and pour that sauce into the garlic pan. Then stir.” he instructed.

Alhaitham followed the orders, lowering the heat before pouring the sauce onto the garlic and stirring. Kaveh set all the spices down before speaking, “Do we have onions?” he asked.

“No, I checked before I started cooking.” Alhaitham answered.

“Hm, that’s disappointing. We’ll have to run to the market tomorrow” Kaveh said, walking up next to Alhaitham and beginning to season the curry. 

“We?” Alhaitham questioned. 

“Yes, we. Is there a problem?” Kaveh asked, putting a hand on his hip.

“I thought you preferred to not be seen together in public?” Alhaitham asked, stirring the curry. “Or have your feelings changed?” 

“No!” Kaveh said quickly. “They have not changed. I just want to shop as quickly as possible and make sure we get everything we need in one trip.” he explained. “That’ll be easier if both of us go.”

Alhaitham hummed. ‘Alright. I suppose that makes sense.” 

Kaveh smiled, letting out a small huff. “Of course it makes sense,” he said. “Now get the shrimp. We’re going to boil them, then add them into the curry.”

After bringing the water to a boil, Alhaitham dropped the shrimp in. The kitchen smelt wonderful. 

“Do you know why I like this meal so much?” Kaveh asked.

“Because it’s easy for you to make?” Alhaitham responded.

Kaveh chuckled. “No, no. I like it because my mother used to make it all the time for me when I was a child” he said.

“I remember coming home to his very smell. It would instantly comfort me. Even if I had a terrible day, it would always make me feel better.” Kaveh explained. “Do you have a comfort meal that your grandmother used to make?” he asked.

The question threw Alhaitham off guard. He doesn’t like to think too much about his grandmother, it always brings unnecessary emotions.

Kaveh picked up on the other’s silence, immediately apologizing. “I’m sorry, Alhaitham, I didn’t mean to bring her up so casually like that. I know how much she meant- or, means to you.” he apologized.

Alhaitham stayed quiet. He missed his grandmother. Her smile, her jokes, her way to always cheer up a crying Alhaitham. And her warmth. He missed the warmth she had. Alhaitham knew it was the circle of life, he knew that everyone dies eventually, but that child in him is still asking. 

Why her? Why so early? He’s seen people live into their hundreds, why couldn’t she?

Why did the world have to take away his warmth?

Alhaitham was going to change the subject, until he felt a warmth. That warmth.

His grandmother’s warmth. But it wasn’t her.

Kaveh had put a hand on his, his thumb gently rubbing his knuckles. Alhaitham isn’t one to cry, but god did he want to. He opened his hand, closing around Kaveh’s.

“Biryani.” Alhaitham said quietly. 

“What?” Kaveh replied, his voice soft.

“You asked if there was a comfort meal my grandmother used to make. It was biryani.” Alhaitham explained.

“Oh, Alhaitham, you don’t have to go into it if you don’t want to.” Kaveh said, giving the taller’s hand a squeeze.

“I want to. Kaveh, please don’t mistake my silence with me being uncomfortable.” Alhaitham replied. “My grandmother didn’t make biryani frequently. She only made it when I had a bad day, or I was feeling under the weather.” he started.

“She made it when I had fallen into a puddle, soaking my clothes and favorite book. She made it when I had gotten my first ever bad grade. And she made it whenever I missed my parents.” Alhaitham explained, his face unreadable and his voice low.

Kaveh listened intently, nodding and taking it in. “She sounds wonderful, Alhaitham.” he said.

Alhaitham nodded. “She was,” he said before bringing his gaze up to look at Kaveh. “She would’ve loved you.”

Kaveh’s eyes widened a little. “Really? What makes you say that?” he asked.

“You two are very similar. You’re both idealistic and passionate. You both chased your dreams and let nothing stop you. You both are kind and compassionate, giving it so freely to everybody around you, and giving none to yourself.” Alhaitham explained.

Kaveh felt his nose go hot, and his eyes started to sting. “That- that’s incredibly sweet, Alhaitham.” he said quickly, looking away. “That means a lot to me, truly. I’m sure I would’ve loved talking to her. I wish I had a chance to meet her.” he said, looking back up at Alhaitham with a smile and glossy eyes.

Alhaitham stared at Kaveh for a moment, letting the silence hang before he spoke. “I wish that too.”

Kaveh’s smile brightened as a few tears fell down his, now red, cheeks. It really did light up the room. He then took a breath, giving Alhaitham’s hand a squeeze before letting go and gathering himself. 

“Alright, let’s finish dinner, shall we?” he said, flashing a smile to Alhaitham.

Alhaitham missed the feel of Kaveh’s hand in his, but he shook that feeling away quickly, the moment now passed. But there was one other thing he didn’t mention to Kaveh about his and his grandmother’s similarities. 

They both had the same warmth. Of course, not identical, but that warmth Kaveh had gave Alhaitham as much comfort as his grandmother’s did. He wouldn’t admit it now, but he made a mental note to share that with Kaveh once the time came.

As the two ate their dinner, they talked as they usually did, with Kaveh complaining about work and his clients with their usual back and forth bickering, but it felt softer. 

Every quip at each other was followed with a quick look saying,  ‘I didn’t actually mean that’. 

It felt nice, comforting, and warm.

After dinner, Alhaitham washed dishes silently as Kaveh went back to his room to resume working. As he washed the plate in his hand, a small smile came to Alhaitham’s face. Today was a good day.

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Day Three: Alhaitham interrupted a meeting with Kaveh and his client

It was a bright, sunny day in Sumeru City. There was a gentle breeze in the air, children’s laughter filled the streets, and Kaveh’s consultation with his client was going swimmingly. 

Until a certain, grey-haired, tall, annoying man almost ruined it.

Alhaitham had finished up his work early that day, and he decided a quick stroll would be nice before going home. It was a beautiful day after all, but he didn’t expect to be greeted with the beauty himself.

When Alhaitham spotted Kaveh, the architect was sitting in front of Lambad’s, across from a woman. She looked young, nice, and devastatingly attractive. 

Her hair was long and curly, and a deep red color. Her skin was darker, and she had lighter spots on her shoulders, forearms, and hands. Vitligo, Alhaitham presumed. She talked with her hands and a big smile on her face, laughing at almost every word Kaveh said. 

After a few minutes of watching them, the woman moved her chair closer to Kaveh’s, leaning in close next to him to look at his sketches. 

Alhaitham didn’t know what to feel. Kaveh’s friends were usually touchy with him, and he was touchy back. But that was different. He knew Kaveh’s friends, he didn’t know this woman that was now suddenly so close to Kaveh.

The man got an unpleasant feeling in his stomach. Is this what jealousy feels like? No, jealousy can’t even be considered here. Kaveh and him weren’t exclusive to each other, they weren’t dating. Kaveh can pursue or be pursued by anyone. 

‘This isn’t my business. Why am I getting so worked up? That’s just a client.’ Alhaitham thought. ‘I should go home.’

That’s exactly what he did. Almost.

Now, this wasn’t  Alhaitham’s brightest moment, but he just couldn’t stop himself.

…

“Kaveh?”

Kaveh whipped his head around, and internally screamed. “Alhaitham!” he said with a smile that looked too big. “What are you doing here?” he asked.

The woman looked between Alhaitham and Kaveh. “Kaveh, you know the Acting Grand Sage?” she asked, looking back at Kaveh.

“Yes, I do, unfortunately. We went to the Akademyia together.” Kaveh answered.

“Oh, really? That’s so cool to hear!” The woman said. “I’m Amaya, Kaveh’s client.” She introduced herself, lending her hand out. Alhaitham took it, shaking her hand.

“I’ve heard about you through some of my friends, it’s nice to finally put a face to the name.” Amaya said. “I’m assuming you’ve seen Kaveh’s work? I mean, wow! Isn’t it incredible?” she exclaimed, holding up one of Kaveh’s sketches.

Kaveh laughed, shaking his head. “It’s not all that” he said, waving his hand. 

“Oh please, don’t sell yourself short,” Amaya said, putting a hand on the blond’s shoulder. “He’s an amazing architect, truly, he just doesn’t credit himself enough”

Alhaitham hummed, staring at Amaya’s hand. The hand laying upon Kaveh’s shoulder. “I know, he’s a wonderful architect.” he said, looking at Kaveh.

Kaveh only held his stare for a second before looking away, a small smile on his face. “Well, we’re in the middle of a consultation. Alhaitham, how about you run along? I’m sure you’re very busy”

“No we’re not! We were just finishing up.” Amaya said, looking up at Alhaitham. “Alhaitham, how about you join us? I could order us some drinks” she offered with a smile.

“Oh, no, I’m sure he has other matters to- ”

“I would love to.” Alhaitham cut Kaveh off, grabbing an empty chair and sitting down next to Kaveh.

“Wonderful! What would you like to drink, Alhaitham?” Amaya asked.

“White wine, please.” Alhaitham responded, looking over at Kaveh.

“Alright, and I know you like red wine, Kaveh. I’ll be right back with our drinks” Amaya said with a smile, standing from her chair and walking away.

As soon as she was out of view, Kaveh started. “What is wrong with you?! I’m with a client!” he whisper-yelled.

“I just wanted to grab a drink, nothing to work yourself up about, Kaveh.” Alhaitham replied, crossing his arms.

Kaveh let out a dry laugh. “Oh please, you never just “grab a drink” by yourself. You always drag me with you!” 

“Well, it’s very convenient you’re here then, isn’t it?” Alhaitham said.

Kaveh shook his head. “No, no, no, something is up with you today. I can feel it and see it on your face.” he said, pointing at Alhaitham.

“Nothing’s wrong, Kaveh. Again, don’t work yourself up.”

“You little-” 

“I’m back! What’d I miss? Nothing important, I hope?” Amaya suddenly exclaimed, effectively shutting Kaveh’s mouth and replacing his glare with a big smile. She carried a black tray with each of their drinks on it. She placed it down and handed Alhaitham and Kaveh their respective beverages.

“Amaya, thank you, really. You didn’t have to pay for our drinks.” Kaveh said, taking a sip of his wine.

“Oh please, it’s nothing. I have too much money anyways.” Amaya laughed, sitting down.

“So, Alhaitham, what’s it like being the Acting Grand Sage?” she asked, taking a sip of her drink.

“It’s nothing special, really. I just have to do more work than I’d like to. I’m planning on stepping down once the Akademyia finds someone more suited for the job.” Alhaitham explained.

“That’s fair, I can’t handle too much work either. It gets my brain all scrambled.” Amaya said. She then looked over at Kaveh. “Sorry, off topic, but how’s Mehrak?” she asked.

Kaveh hummed and nodded. “She’s just fine. All I had to do was repair some of her wires and install some new ventilation systems so she wouldn’t overheat as easily.” he said.

Alhaitham paused. ‘Why does she know about Mehrak? I guess it’s not that out of the ordinary, Mehrak can be a helpful tool for Kaveh’s job.’ He thought to himself.

But the words escaped his mouth before he could process it. “You know about Mehrak?” he asked.

Both Amaya and Kaveh looked over at Alhaitham. “Yes, I do! I absolutely adore her, and to find out Kaveh made her himself ? Talk about intelligence!” she laughed.

Alhaitham felt that familiar, unpleasant feeling in his gut. Once again, he couldn’t stop himself.

“Kaveh, is Mehrak’s voice detection ready? So she can talk to me and all? I wasn’t sure if you had finished all my voice memos,” he said. “Can Mehrak detect your voice, Amaya?”

Amaya thought for a minute, then shook her head. “I don’t believe so, but it would be cool if she could” she responded with a smile.

Kaveh’s eyes widened a little as he glared at Alhaitham, biting his cheek.

Alhiatham stared back, before continuing. “I’m thinking of getting more plants for the house, what do you think, Kaveh?”

Kaveh took a deep breath before answering. “I think plants would be lovely in your home, Alhaitham.” he answered, taking a long sip of his drink.

“Our home.”

Kaveh almost choked on his wine.

“Oh! You two live together? Kaveh didn’t mention that to me.” Amaya said.

“He didn’t?” Alhaitham asked. “We have coffee together every morning, I’m surprised."

Amaya smiled wide. “Awh, that’s sweet. Kaveh, why didn’t you mention this to me?” she asked, turning to Kaveh.

Kaveh cleared his throat before responding quickly. “It must’ve slipped my mind,” he said. “Alhaitham? Can I have a word with you? Alone.”

“Of course, Kaveh.” Alhaitham replied, standing up from his chair.

“Please excuse us, we’ll be right back” Kaveh said to Amaya, standing up.

“Don’t worry about it, take your time” Amaya said with a smile, giving Kaveh’s arm a squeeze.

Once the two made it far enough away from the table, Kaveh started off loud. “What is your issue?! You’re acting like a complete jerk to her!” he said. “And why did you mention that we live together?!” he added, his hands flailing around.

“Seriously, something has been off with you the minute you sat down. You are going to tell me right now so I can fix it and not lose my client!” Kaveh said loudly, putting his hands on his hips.

Alhaitham stared at Kaveh for a minute. “… Nothing’s wrong. I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Kaveh slapped Alhaitham’s shoulder. “Don’t lie to me!” he whisper-yelled, now realizing his earlier volume. 

Alhaitham took a breath, and just stared at Kaveh, silent. He didn’t want to admit it, he really didn’t want to admit it, but he was jealous. He knew he shouldn’t be, but he couldn’t help himself. With a gorgeous, smart, loving man like Kaveh, anything that came into his vicinity could make him jealous.

Kaveh stared back, his gaze hard and his eyebrows furrowed. He had no idea why Alhaitham was acting like this. Why was he being so difficult? Why did he mention his voice detection for Mehrak? Why did he mention that they live together? Why did he insert himself into his meeting with a client?! He stared into Alhaitham’s eyes, trying to find an answer.

Then it clicked.

“Alhaitham, are you jealous?” Kaveh asked.

Alhaitham took a deep breath, staying silent. That was all the response Kaveh needed to know he was right about his assumption.

“Well, I don’t blame you,” Kaveh started. “I mean, after that talk we had last night, if I saw you sitting next to a pretty woman I’d get jealous too.” he said.

Alhaitham’s breath was taken away. He could only respond with one word. 

“Really?”

“Yes, really.” Kaveh said, a small smile on his face, looking away from Alhaitham.

Alhaitham regained his breath, and also gained something else. Audacity. He leaned forward, his face now much closer to Kaveh’s. “I’m glad to hear that you don’t blame me, Kaveh,” he whispered.

He leaned in closer, his lips next to Kaveh’s ear. “You’re a gorgeous man, Kaveh. I can’t have anybody else trying to claim you.” he whispered quietly, leaving the blond with wide eyes and a red face.

Alhaitham pulled back, standing straight. “Let’s head back, I know you don’t want to leave your drink waiting.” he said, beginning to walk back as if he hadn’t just rocked Kaveh’s world.

After Kaveh calmed down and got himself situated, he returned to the table. He sat down and immediately downed his drink.

“Kaveh, why didn’t you tell me you and Alhaitham were together?” Amaya asked.

Kaveh quickly looked over at Amaya, then at Alhaitham. God, he was gonna have a heart attack. “Did he tell you that?!” he asked, much louder than he wanted to, pointing a finger at Alhaitham.

“Oh, no, I just picked up on some jealousy coming from Alhaitham,” Amaya started. “Then he mentioned you two living together, and then when you two went to talk, I saw Alhaitham giving you a kiss on the cheek.” she explained.

Kaveh was at a loss for words.

“There wasn’t any need to hide your relationship from me, Kaveh. I’m a lesbian myself, we have to stick together, don’t we?” Amaya asked.

“We do.” Alhaitham replied, making Amaya smile wide.

Kaveh took a deep breath, hiding his face in his hands.

“Well, I should get going, it’s getting dark. I’ll see you next week, Kaveh.” Amaya said, getting up from her chair. “It was great to meet you, Alhaitham.” she added before walking away.

Alhaitham looked at Kaveh, reaching over and patting Kaveh’s shoulder. “Ready to head home, sweetheart?” he teased.

“Shut up!” Kaveh groaned. “And no, I’m not. For your stupidity I’m making you buy me as many drinks as I please. Archons know I need it right now…” he grumbled.

Alhaitham let a small smirk come to his face. “Of course. Order whatever you’d like, Kaveh.”

————

————

Day four: Alhaitham was confronted.

The day started quietly. Eeerily quiet. Alhaitham had woken up to an empty home. No coffee being poured, no small talk with his roommate, and no Kaveh. The blond’s keys and bag were both gone, so Alhaitham assumed that he had just left early. 

Hopefully that’s what it was.

The night before, Kaveh was so drunk that he immediately passed out once they had gotten home. His body almost landed on the hardwood floor, luckily Alhaitham caught Kaveh just in time and carried him to his bed.

They hadn’t gotten the time to talk about what had happened. Alhaitham thought about how the discussion would go.

Maybe Kaveh would be disgusted by him? No, that can’t be true. That dazed look Kaveh had after Alhaitham whispered into his ear wasn’t one of disgust. 

Maybe Kaveh would sit Alhaitham down and gently destroy his heart, letting him know that he doesn’t reciprocate his feelings and that he will be moving out. No, Kaveh definitely does not have the finances for that right now. Plus, moving out over something like that would be idiotic.

Or maybe, Kaveh would reciprocate his feelings, kiss Alhaitham and immediately ask for his hand in marriage. In Alhaitham’s dreams, this is the outcome.

But now, all the man could do was make his morning coffee and go about his day.

After leaving the house, Alhaitham made his way to work. He entered the House of Daena, took the elevator to his office, and ignored anyone who tried to talk to him. He had bigger things to worry about. 

As Alhaitham worked, he couldn’t help but feel anxious. His leg began to bounce repeatedly, his writing started to slow, and one of his hands lifted to hold his head and pull at his hair. He was certain nothing bad would happen as his knee hit the bottom of his desk, making his pen slip and messing up his report.

As he sighed and got out a new paper, starting over on his report. He was certain nothing bad would happen.

He then felt a pain in his palm. Taking his hand out of his hair, Alhaitham found a crescent shaped scar in his palm, blood beginning to fall from the puncture. He was certain nothing bad would happen.

Alhaitham grabbed a nearby tissue and pressed it against the small injury, letting his head fall. He closed his eyes, taking deep breaths in and out.

He was certain nothing bad would happen.

…

After two more hours of working, Alhaitham made the rational decision to take a break. He stood up from his desk and grabbed one of the books off his desk. It was a novel he had already finished, but he enjoyed it enough to read again, at least for now.

The man made his way back down the elevator and out of the House of Daeana, still ignoring anyone who tried to start a conversation with him. He couldn’t keep his mind from racing, he needed to calm down. 

Now walking the streets of Sumeru City, he decided to stop by a nearby cafe, sit at an outdoor table, and read for a bit before going back to work. 

Once he made his way to Puspa Cafe, he sat down, opened his book, and began to read. Reading was always one of the things that calmed Alhaitham down. That’s one of the reasons he did it so much, not only because he enjoyed it, but to always appear calm and collected.

As he read, his mind slowed down, and the background noise eventually faded out, leaving just Alhaitham and his book. His breathing slowed, and his demeanor calmed, just how it should be. But of course, to disrupt this tranquil moment, Alhaitham felt eyes on him.

He looked over his shoulder, peering at the crowd, until he spotted something. The biggest worry in his mind, standing and staring right at him.

Kaveh stood there, it looked like he was mid conversation with someone, the other person oblivious to Kaveh’s disinterest. Alhaitham held eye contact with Kaveh for a few moments, until Kaveh gave him a small smile and wave, continuing his conversation.

That gave Alhaitham a small sense of comfort. His anxiousness faded into the background, being replaced by a new feeling. Intrigue. Kaveh didn’t seem angry or distant, maybe he was right. Maybe everything will be just fine.

…

That night, Alhaitham returned home. He stopped in front of the front door, his hand hovering above the handle. Despite his mind calming down earlier, a few worries had wormed their way back into his mind. He took a deep breath, opening the door.

Once he stepped into his home, he was met with silence. He half expected Kaveh to be sitting on the divan, waiting until he got home so they could talk. ‘I guess not’, he thought to himself. 

Suddenly, Alhaitham heard something hard hit the floor. It slightly alarmed him. 

“Kaveh?” he called out, walking towards Kaveh’s room. Just before he could open it, the door swung open, a disheveled Kaveh standing in the door frame.

“Alhaitham! I forgot you were coming home late today, so hearing someone come in scared me so much I fell out of my chair.” Kaveh explained, crossing his arms.

“You fell out of your chair because you thought it wasn’t me coming home?” Alhaitham asked.

“… Yes,” Kaveh replied. “so, did you want to talk about it?” he asked.

“About what?” Alhaitham asked back.

“Don’t play dumb right now! You know what! Yesterday? Actually, these past few days?” Kaveh said. “I want you to tell me everything. What you’re thinking, feeling, your intentions, everything.”

Alhaitham was quiet for a moment. In truth, he didn’t know where to start.

But Kaveh took this as a sign to explain further. “ I need to know so I know I’m not misreading the situation. I need to know if we’re on the same page. Do you understand?” he asked, his voice now softer.

Alhaitham nodded. “I understand.”

Kaveh hummed. “Good,” he said. “ Actually, come in. Let’s sit down before anything happens.” he added, walking into his room and sitting down on his bed. Alhaitham walked in after Kaveh, sitting down on the chair at the blond’s desk.

There was currently a large sketch of an intricate patio on his desk, along with a few pencils, stacks of other papers or projects, and a glass of water.

“Alhaitham?” Kaveh said, pulling Alhaitham out of his head. He took that as the initiative to start.

“Kaveh, I’m in love with you,” Alhaitham started. “I have been for years.”

Kaveh was silent for a moment. “That was blunt.”

“My apologies, I couldn’t find another way to put it. “I like you” sounds too childish for what I feel for you.” Alhaitham explained.

Kaveh let out a small huff, a smile spreading on his face. “So, is that why you’ve been insanely annoying these past couple days?” he asked.

“Not entirely.” Alhaitham said. “I only came to this realization myself last night. I’m sure subconsciously I was acting out of my love for you. But the primary reason is… a little foolish to admit. But I… just like your attention. I adore it, even.” he said.

“I just wanted you to pay attention to me.” Alhaitham confessed, looking like a puppy who just got in trouble.

“Seriously?” Kaveh asked. “Alhaitham, you can just talk to me,” he said. “You know that.”

“Just talking to you wouldn’t have gotten the attention I wanted. I wanted you to be on me and stay on me. Not just for a few minutes with meaningless small talk.” Alhaitham said. “I needed- need, more of you.”

“The only way to get that attention was to get on your nerves. Due to your extreme pettiness, you don’t drop things easily, therefore, you wouldn’t drop me. I was completely fine with you being mad at me all the time, if it meant I got to spend my time with you. Even if it was arguing.” Alhaitham explained, keeping his voice steady.

Kaveh stared at Alhaitham for a moment, his eyes a little wide and face pink.

“You- you care that much about me?” Kaveh asked, laughing softly. “I thought- I thought you hated me.” he said, his voice growing softer. “I thought you were trying to drive me away, make me so angry that I’d leave on my own terms. I thought you wanted me gone.” he said quietly.

“I really thought it would make you happier, too. Not waking up to me, not having to constantly fight with me, not having me around to bother you.” Kaveh said. 

“I know you. You like your quiet, your privacy, your tranquil life. I’m the only thing messing that up for you.” he said, staring down at the ground, his hands picking at his clothing.

Alhaitham slowly brought a hand up, cradling Kaveh’s face. “If you truly believe a life without you is a life I would ever want, I’m afraid you don’t know me at all.” he whispered. His thumb gently rubbed Kaveh’s cheek.

“I have a high paying, cushy job, and all I do is work, come home, eat, sleep, and do it all over again tomorrow. My life is incredibly mundane, and incredibly bland.” Alhaitham started. “Until you moved in. You bring so much light into my life, I don’t think I can stand to lose it again.” he said, his voice soft.

“Could you imagine the world without the sun?” Alhaitham asked.

Kaveh listened to Alhaitham, shaking his head as he let his face lean into Alhaitham’s hand.

“I lost you once. I lost your light. I was brutally reminded of how dull life could be. But now I have you again, and trust me when I say this, Kaveh. I am never letting you go again.” Alhaitham said, tilting Kaveh’s head up to look at him.

“Do you undertsand?” he asked.

Kaveh nodded. “I understand.” 

“Good,” Alhaitham said. “You said before that you wanted to make sure we were on the same page. “So, are we?” he asked, his voice quiet.

Kaveh sat up, taking Alhaitham’s hand off his face and holding it with his own hands. He took a deep breath before speaking.

“Alhaitham, you are the most annoying, idiotic, stubborn, obnoxious man I have ever met. But unfortunately, I love you so much that all of those traits make me love you even more.” Kaveh explained, his eyes now starting to water.

“Whenever I was with you, my heart would hurt, and I had no idea why. Maybe it was just the feeling of a new friend, or a bad falling out, or seeing each other again after years of not talking.” he said, his voice shaky.

“I’m now only realizing that my heart was aching for you. I can’t believe it took me this long to figure out.” Kaveh laughed, his hands squeezing around Alhaitham’s. “I’m sorry it did.” he added.

Alhaitham leaned forward. “You don’t have anything to be sorry for, Kaveh. I promise you, I hold nothing against you.” he whispered.

Kaveh looked Alhaitham up and down, his face turning a little pink now that he was coming back to his senses.

Alhaitham did the same, but only his eyes stayed on Kaveh’s lips.

“Can I?” he asked.

“Please do.” Kaveh muttered.

Alhaitham pressed their lips together, closing his eyes. This is what he was made for. To kiss this gorgeous man, to take care of him, to cherish and adore him. He was convinced. He was made to love Kaveh.

As Alhaitham gently pushed Kaveh back onto the bed, deepening the kiss, Alhaitham felt a warmth in his heart, and in his body. He felt so warm, and safe here. As he pushed his tongue into Kaveh’s mouth, he thought something. 

He never wanted to stop.

After a few minutes, the two pulled away to breathe. But only a second passed until Alhaitham dived back in, his hands beginning to roam Kaveh’s body. The thought that he could feel Kaveh whenever he pleased now sent a certain heat through his body.

Kaveh pushed Alhaitham away, laughing. “Haitham! I need to breathe!” he giggled. Hearing that, Alhaitham settled on kissing Kaveh’s neck and shoulders. His hands grabbed at Kaveh’s waist, pulling him impossibly closer.

“Alhaitham! Stop it!” Kaveh laughed loudly. Alhaitham raised his mouth from Kaveh’s neck for just a second.

“Alhaitham? What happened to Haitham? I was enjoying that.” Alhaitham whispered, continuing to kiss on Kaveh’s neck. 

Kaveh giggled, his face turning red. “Okay! Okay, Haitham! Please, I need to get dinner started!” he exclaimed.

“Dinner can wait…” Alhaitham said against Kaveh’s skin, his voice muffled.

“Dinner cannot wait! Let me go, jerk!” Kaveh laughed, pushing Alhaitham off of him. Alhaitham let him, falling back onto Kaveh’s bed with a big smile.

“Wow, I’ve never seen you this happy before.” Kaveh remarked.

“I’ve never felt this happy before.” Alhaitham said, staring at the ceiling.

…

As Kaveh prepared dinner, Alhaitham stood directly behind him, his chin sitting on Kaveh’s shoulder. 

“Is this how my days will be now? With you hovering right behind me?” Kaveh asked, stirring a pot of soup.

”if you don’t mind.” Alhaitham whispered, kissing Kaveh’s shoulder.

Kaveh let out a small laugh. “I don’t mind.”