Chapter Text
Three years passed since Kaveh moved in and not much has changed. They still bickered but it had mostly mellowed out. Kaveh spent most of his days cleaning the house when he wasn’t working while Alhaitham did the cooking.
When it came to work trips, Kaveh often complained if Alhaitham didn’t tell him beforehand, especially if they happened to have work trips coinciding around the same time in the same area.
It was almost reminiscent of when they were at their closest, with the addition of bickering and much more space between them. Kaveh even seemed happier whenever Alhaitham was around compared to 4 years ago when he would actively avoid Alhaitham.
After the events that eventually lead to the Dendro Archon reinstating her power, Alhaitham’s friend group had begun to expand, even if it was against his own will.
First off, there was Cyno and Tighnari. Tighnari and Kaveh were friends and Kaveh often had dinner with him and his boyfriend, Cyno, and their adopted daughter Collei. Kaveh began dragging Alhaitham to hang out as well. Whenever Tighnari was in the city, Kaveh would have the four of them hang out at a tavern and spend the night playing card games. Alhaitham always protested and often came in late, but he made sure to come every time. After all, it made Kaveh happy.
Then there was Dehya. He quite liked her and saw her as a very intelligent woman that would surely excel in the Akademiya if she applied. She of course would always refuse, believing that office jobs simply weren’t her style. Despite this, she was a great drinking buddy and always fun to spar with when given the chance.
Nilou, although not new, is definitely a more frequent addition. Before, Alhaitham rarely ever saw her outside of the theater, but now they not only ran into each other frequently but often took the time to exchange a few words.
Lastly, there was Lumine and her companion Paimon. Paimon was nosey and often insulted Alhaitham, but he didn’t mind. After all, it was easy to poke fun at her just like with Kaveh. Lumine on the other hand was the kind of person who happened to be in the middle of everything. If you happen to be in her presence, you are guaranteed to get involved in the most entertaining adventures.
It seemed like everybody else was well aware of Alhaitham’s feelings for Kaveh, though most of them never acknowledged it in front of him. Nilou only vaguely hinted at it in their conversations. Lumine on the other hand, was upfront about it.
“Your husband got drunk and started rambling about you again,” Lumine would say.
“We’re not even dating. He doesn’t like me,” Alhaitham would reply.
And then Lumine would give him a death glare that rivaled Cyno’s before he would knock somebody out.
He thought that would be the end of it, until one day when he came home from work Lumine was in the living room being entertained by Kaveh. Paimon was nowhere in sight, which was a relief because the shock of finding the traveler in his house uninvited was enough to sour his mood.
The displeasure was clear on his face as the two blondes snickered as if it was some sort of joke.
“You were right, he’s not happy to see me here,” Lumine giggled.
“It’s okay, he’s always annoyed whenever he gets reminded he doesn’t live alone.”
“Is there something wrong with wanting to have some peace after work?” Alhaitham asked as he joined Kaveh on the couch.
“Not when it’s every day you have that scowl. Geez, it's so off-putting even I can’t stand it,” Kaveh rolled his eyes as he pushed a tray of crackers in the direction of the scribe. “Here, I didn’t cook because I had to entertain your guest.”
“She’s your friend too,” Alhaitham argued as he took a cracker.
“But she’s here to see you, meaning she’s your guest today.”
“It is true, I did come to ask you something,” Lumine interjected.
“Yes and with that, I am leaving her to you,” Kaveh stood up and walked away.
“What did you need?” Alhaitham asked.
“I was looking for a book on the history of the goddess of flowers.”
“Oh,” Alhaitham perked up in interest, “Why the sudden interest?”
“Well, I happened to stumble upon her burial grounds and I wanted to show my proper respects to her by learning about her.”
“You found the Eternal Oasis?”
Lumine nodded.
Cool, but unsurprising. With the traveler around, one was bound to discover things hidden away from the rest of society.
“I have a few books on the goddess. Follow me,” Alhaitham led her to his study and he began taking out all the books he remembered having information on the topic.
“Wow, you have a lot of books on her,” Lumine commented as the pile grew.
“Actually, most of these books belong to Kaveh. He loves reading about ancient technology and she’s mentioned often. I just happened to remember which ones are about her.”
“You read Kaveh’s books?” Lumine asked as she picked up one of the books and began flipping through its content.
“If it interests me,” Alhaitham replied coolly as he placed the final book onto the pile. “This should be all I have here.”
“Thanks,” Lumine answered as she placed the book she had previously onto Alhaitham’s desk and picked up another. “By the way, your husband was pretty upset that he had to skip cooking to serve me.”
“We’re not even dating,” Alhaitham pointed out as he crossed his arms.
“Are you sure about that? You live together, divide the chores, he nags at you like a fed-up wife and you look at him like he’s the sun,” Lumine began to list off everything with her fingers as she continued to tease Alhaitham.
Alhaitham scoffed, “If all you want to do is talk about my roommate, then you can leave.”
“Geez, okay, I’ll get to reading,” Lumine pouted as she picked up a book and began to flip through the pages.
“I’m going to eat dinner, call out if you need anything,” Alhaitham left the room in a hurry, not wanting to spend another second in there.
He headed straight towards the kitchen to cook himself some dinner only to find that Kaveh had beaten him to it, down to even having set up the table with an extra plate for their guest.
“Ah, right on time. I made soup for us tonight. Can you fetch Lumine?”
Alhaitham’s nose scrunched up in disgust, “Sure, but nobody’s allowed to read at the table if we’re having soup.”
“Ugh, this again,” Kaveh grumbled. “I told you that it’s fine to have it while reading. I do it all the time!”
“And now I can spot all the gross splotches of food on the books from each time you spilled on the pages.”
“That’s it!” Kaveh angrily grabbed one of the bowls and began to leave the room. “I’m never cooking for you again!”
It’s the fifth time he’s said it in the past month. He’s never truly meant it.
“Wait,” Alhaithm called out to his senior. Kaveh popped his head back into the kitchen to glare at Alhaitham.
“What?” Kaveh asked.
“You forgot utensils,” Alhaitham sheepishly said as he held out a spoon for Kaveh to grab.
“Right,” Kaveh reached out to grab the spoon from Alhaitham’s hands. “Thanks.”
Kaveh ended up putting his bowl back on the table and eating dinner with Alhaitham. As they ate, they talked.
“So, what did Lumine want anyways?” Kaveh asked.
“She was looking into information on the goddess of flowers.”
“Nabu Malikata?!” Kaveh practically spat out his soup. “But you have more information on Al-Ahmar than her.”
“Yes, that’s why I gave her your books instead.”
“What?! I didn’t give you permission to do that!” Kaveh yelled.
“But you would have agreed to give her those books anyways, correct?” Ahaitham reasoned coolly.
“I- well, yes, but still, don’t go lending my books out without at least informing me, okay?”
“Alright,” Alhaitham agreed easily. As he stood up to get himself a drink. “I feel like having some wine this evening, care to join?”
Kaveh smirked. “You know I can never say no to that!”
Alhaitham took out a bottle of wine and poured two glasses for the pair.
“Don’t go crazy tonight,” Alhaitham warned. “Your lightweightness is too much to handle sometimes.”
“Please,” Kaveh rolled his eyes as he took a sip. “As if I would embarrass myself in front of Lumine like that.”
“Why would you embarrass yourself in front of me?” Lumine interjected as she joined the pair in the kitchen. “The fact you are embarrassed to admit you’re living with Alhaitham is enough.”
“Lumine!” Kaveh hissed, “What brings you here?”
“Oh nothing, I got hungry and followed the scent of food here. Seems like somebody forgot to fetch their guest for dinner,” Lumine said as her yellow eyes landed on Alhaitham. “Too wrapped up in lover’s paradise?”
Kaveh and Alhaitham both interjected with an “It’s not like that!” Which only caused Lumine to giggle.
“Archons, you’re both pathetic,” Lumine teased as she took her seat. “You both would deny it up and down but the truth is, you both care for each other.”
“Ha, that’s a joke if I’ve ever heard one,” Kaveh scoffed.
Lumine turned to Alhaitham, “You see what I mean? Anyways, thanks for the recommendations I got some good information on her.”
“You're welcome,” Alhaitham replied.
“Heh, hey don’t take the credit, those are my books, you know! You’re welcome to take a look at them anytime Lumine,” Kaveh added.
She laughed, “Thank you.”
After dinner, Lumine bid farewell to the pair. Kaveh left first, stating that he was hit with a wave of inspiration and needed to work to take advantage of it, leaving Alhaitham alone with the traveler.
She pulled him aside as Kaveh’s window was right by where they were standing and lowered her voice as she consulted him.
“I know I tease you two a lot, but it’s honestly painful to see you two dance around each other. You look at him like he’s your whole world and he looks at you as if he’s missing something. If you’re not ready to tell him your true feelings, fine, but for the love of Archons, tell him you don’t hate him.”
“I don’t need to tell him that. I show it to him every day.” Alhaitham replied.
“Yes, but, does he really know? Maybe you should spell it out for him,” Lumine argued. “You know him better than I do and I can tell he needs words of affirmation. Don’t you think so?”
Alhaitham sighed but nodded offering her a smile for a split second. “I don’t need to think to know that you’re right. It’s just a hassle.”
Lumine giggled and patted Alhaitham on the back, “The things that are worth it in the end are always worth the hassle. Anyways, I gotta pick Paimon up. I promised her some food tonight. See you around.”
“See you,” Alhaitham waved before returning to his home. As he took off his shoes he looked up to see Kaveh with his arms crossed. It startled Alhaitham as he had mentally mapped Kaveh in his room already. “Geez, you gave me a fright.”
“Sorry, I just got nosey. I never noticed how close you and Lumine are. Heck, I don’t think anybody’s ever laughed with you,” Kaveh pointed out.
“She finds me funny. That’s all,” he answered.
“Do you like her?” Kaveh asked.
“Yes,” Alhaitham replied. “I do.”
“No, I meant, like, romantically. Would you date her?”
“No, she’s not my type. Are we done? Your questions are annoying. I never question the people you bring home do I?”
“Sorry,” Kaveh sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck. “I guess I’m just shocked. You seem really happy with her.”
“Again, not my type. I like blondes but she’s too short, and I like feisty personalities but she is too tough. She’s smart, but I don’t think she can keep up with my brain. Plus, she’s too agreeable if you try debating with her.”
“Wow, you picked her apart,” Kaveh said. “Would it kill you to cut her some slack?”
“Why would I give her any more praise? Everybody else does that.”
“Okay, you’re not wrong,” Kaveh laughed awkwardly, “But still, it’s just weird. You and ‘friends’ aren’t exactly something that go together.”
“I guess you’re right. Before this year, the only person I’d have ever considered my friend was you.”
“Ha! You really are friendless. Guess going out of your way to save Lord Kusanali broadened your horizons.”
“Yeah but then she appointed me as the Grand Sage.”
“Which you thankfully resigned from. Besides, a little change is good, no? You’re turning thirty soon, shouldn’t you be looking for a partner to start a family with? You’re not finding anybody if you’re not meeting people.”
“You’re already thirty,” Alhaitham pointed out. “Where’s your spouse and kids?”
“You!” Kaveh scowled but immediately sighed after, “Whatever, not my point. Don’t you ever think about love and settling down?”
“I have,” Alhaitham admitted.
“Oh, that’s right I remember, six years ago, I got you to admit that you liked somebody. Do you… like someone now?” Kaveh asked cautiously.
“Yeah,” Alhaitham answered nonchalantly.
“Who?”
“The same one as last time.”
“You still like them? After six years?” Kaveh’s eyes widened in shock.
“I’ve only ever loved one person, and I’ve only ever wanted to be with one person,” Alhaitham shrugged, beginning to walk away but Kaveh grabbed his wrist, holding him in place.
“But, six years? For that long, do they not know you exist or something?”
“They know.”
“Have you tried courting them at all?”
“Sorta. It didn’t work out.”
“Then…do they just not like you back?” Kaveh met Alhaitham’s eyes and all Alhaitham could read was pity in the older man’s eyes. He’s seen that face on Kaveh before but it was never geared toward him. He hated the look, he hated that Kaveh pitied him. He didn’t want to be looked at in such a way. Especially when it was because of Alhaitham’s feelings toward Kaveh.
“I’ve only ever wanted them. If they don’t want me then, I’ll accept it but I don’t think I’ll ever stop loving them.”
Kaveh’s eyes sparkled and his face shifted from pity to something else entirely. It was a look Alhaitham hadn’t seen in years. Kaveh hadn’t looked at him in that way since before their argument that ended their original friendship. Kaveh’s face began to redden, the deepest shade of red he’s ever seen on Kaveh’s face and his grip on Alhaitham tightened.
“That’s… the most romantic thing I’ve ever heard in my entire life,” Kaveh confessed.
Alhaitham tilted his head curiously, “Is it? It’s just how I feel.”
“It is a very you thing to say. But, that dedication, the loyalty. Anybody would want that. The one you love… they’re really lucky,” Kaveh admitted, his eyes shifting away from Alhaitham to stare at the ground.
Alhaitham gave Kaveh a smile, “No, I’m lucky to love them.”
Kaveh awkwardly laughed but it was hollow. His entire mood shifted in an instant and his hold on Alhaitham broke, his hand now choosing to hold onto his other arm.
“Sorry, for asking so many questions. You know me, nosy as ever.” Kaveh continued to nervously laugh. Something was obviously on Kaveh’s mind but Alhaitham didn't have the slightest clue what it could be. Alhaitham prided himself in being able to read Kaveh, but when his emotions started brewing up his tsunami of mixed emotions that changed at the drop of a hat even Alhaitham could get lost.
“I should really get to working on my project,” Kaveh continued, retreating to his room.
“Are you going to be working late into the night?”
“Maybe, but no tinkering tonight. You won’t need your headphones.”
“Good,” Alhaitham said, “I can finally give my ears a break.”
“Please, you wear that thing all day. I’m surprised it hasn’t fused into you yet.”
“Hmph,” Alhaitham scoffed, crossing his arms and looking away from him,” and whose fault is that?”
“Yours,” Kaveh replied teasingly, sticking his tongue out.
Alhaitham chuckled, heading toward the direction of his own room before saying, “Goodnight Kaveh.”
“Goodnight Alhaitham.”
Kaveh had been acting strange ever since the night Lumine came to visit. He was often avoiding Alhaitham, choosing to be in his room tinkering away at his projects and rarely ever coming out. Alhaitham often had to persuade Kaveh to come out and eat, which was often met with resistance, something Kaveh rarely did before. Even if he managed to convince the blonde to eat with him, he kept conversation to a minimum and he would eat as quickly as possible before returning to his work.
On the rare occasions Kaveh wasn’t avoiding him, he was completely dazed, often staring blankly into the space lost in thought. If he wasn’t lost in thought, he was just awkward, blushing at the most random things or just looking mopey. Alhaitham hated it. Kaveh had always been dramatic and sensitive, putting his heart and soul into even the most mundane things, but this new development was almost the opposite. If anything, he seemed to be lacking motivation for anything outside of work.
Had something happened that night that Alhaitham wasn’t aware of?
They were currently in the study room, Alhaitham at his desk practicing calligraphy while Kaveh was at his desk running a check-up on his sentient briefcase Mehrak. The architect was so caught up in his work that he failed to notice Alhaitham staring at him. It was the most normal Kaveh had acted all week. He was back to his smiling self again and he was cooing happily at Mehrak as he commanded her to do certain tests. He was even in the presence of Alhaitham and didn’t seem to mind being around him.
“Atta girl,” Kaveh laughed as Mehrak passed another one of his tests. “Everything seems to be running smoothly. Nothing needs to be fixed this week.” He gave the machine a kiss before turning to his desk. “Alright, now to get started on a commission…” Kaveh said as he stretched his arms.
Kaveh’s stomach rumbled just then.
“Are you hungry?” Alhaitham asked as he returned to his work to avoid getting caught from his staring.
Kaveh turned around to face Alhaitham. “Yes, but—“
Kaveh’s words were cut off by the sound of a chair scraping across the floor. Alhaitham stood up and pushed his chair in, the scraping repeating itself. Kaveh began to trail off completely as Alhaitham approached Kaveh’s table.
“Really, I um, don’t need to eat right now—“ Kaveh stuttered as his face turned red.
Once he was close enough, Alhaitham reached out a hand to Kaveh’s forehead. His temperature seemed fine but fevers weren’t the only sign of illness, and Alhaitham was still worried. What could possibly be happening to cause Kaveh to blush this much?
“Wh-what are you doing?” Kaveh asked as he swatted Alhaitham’s hand off.
“I was just checking your temperature. You looked like you were overheating.”
“Huh?! No! I’m not sick!” Kaveh insisted.
“Are you sure? You’ve been acting weird all week,” Alhaitham asked. Maybe if he was more direct Kaveh would provide an answer.
“I’m just stressed, that’s all. This week has been hell for me,” Kaveh replied, as he turned back to his work. “Now, if you’ll excuse me—“
“Take a break then,” Alhaitham suggested.
“I’m fine, I don’t need a break. I’ll rest once this is done,” Kaveh assured.
“And when would this be done?” Alhaitham crossed his arms and huffed in annoyance. “In a week after you collapse from exhaustion?”
“Ha. Ha. Very funny,” Kaveh replied as he picked up his pencil and began to draw. “Mehrak, you agree with me don’t you?”
The machine beeped angrily at him and joined Alhaitham’s side, making an angry face at Kaveh.
“No, you’re supposed to be on my side here!” Kaveh whined which earned him additional angry beeps.
“Hmmph, she even agrees with me. C’mon, that’s enough work for now,” Ahaitham grabbed the back of Kaveh’s chair and pulled it out, distancing Kaveh from his desk. He then offered his hand to Kaveh. “Let’s go take a break.”
Kaveh widened his eyes as he looked up at Alhaitham. The sparkle in his eyes from a week ago was back. Kaveh averted his eyes as he bashfully took Alhaitham’s hand and allowed himself to be pulled up by his roommate.
Hand in hand, Alhaitham guided Kaveh out to the living room and insisted he lay down as he prepared something. Kaveh had protested but Mehrak’s insistent beeping kept him from protesting. And so, Alhaitham went to the kitchen to prepare something as Kaveh was left behind to rest.
When Alhaitham returned with two mugs of coffee and a tray of sandwiches, Kaveh was lying down on one of the couches, using Mehrak’s projector to look at some of his designs.
“You’re supposed to be on a break,” Alhaitham said as he set the tray down on the table and pushed the mug of Kaveh’s coffee toward him. Kaveh sat up and took the mug graciously.
“Thanks, you remembered to add the stuff I like this time, right?”
“Of course, it should have enough sugar to send you into a coma.”
Kaveh grinned as he took a sip of the coffee. “It’s perfect.”
Mehrak beeped in agreement, giving Alhaitham a cheerful face.
“Now,” Alhaitham took the couch on the other side of the table and held his own mug, “rest.”
“But I have a lot of work--”
“Working non-stop isn’t going to help you. Drink your coffee and lie down.”
Kaveh frowned, clearly wanting to protest but Mehrak was beeping in agreement and Kaveh sighed. “Fine.”
Kaveh sat his mug down and laid on the couch before closing his eyes. Alhaitham thought Kaveh was just going to close his eyes and start talking but he remained silent and after a few minutes his breathing evened out. He must’ve been really tired to fall asleep like that.
Knowing Kaveh who has always hated the couches they have, even after getting new ones, he would complain later about feeling uncomfortable. He shouldn’t be left there otherwise Alhaitham would have to deal with another round regarding his choice in furniture. Alhaitham sighed as he crossed the room and began to lift Kaveh up. Kaveh shifted in his sleep and grabbed Alhaitham’s sleeve before mumbling incoherently.
“Shh, it’s okay, I got you,” Alhaitham whispered as he carried Kaveh to his bedroom.
After opening the door to Kaveh’s room, he placed Kaveh on the bed and pulled the sheets up around his body. Kaveh remained fast asleep, grabbing onto his pillow and curling around it,
“What am I going to do with you?” Alhaitham said fondly as he tucked a strand of Kaveh’s hair behind his ear.
Kaveh opened his eyes and Alhaitham froze. He was sure that Kaveh was asleep and yet he still woke up.
“Hey,” Alhaitham said, trying to play it cool but his beating heart was betraying him on the inside. “I thought you were asleep.”
“I was until you tickled me,” Kaveh said sleepily.
“You’re ticklish there?” Alhaitham smirked as he eyed the side of Kaveh’s neck.
Realizing what he had just revealed, Kaveh sat up and covered his neck.
“No,” he denied, scooting away from Alhaitham.
“I didn’t even know you were ticklish to begin with,” Alhaitham pondered.
“And you’re not getting any ideas now!” Kaveh squeaked.
Alhaitham turned to Kaveh who was mere inches from falling off his bed. Alhaitham huffed and leaned forward which caused Kaveh to scoot again except he had nowhere else to go so he ended up falling off the bed with an unceremonial thud.
“You ass!” Kaveh lifted himself up and glared at Alhaitham.
Alhaitham huffed in amusement.
“You really enjoy my misery,” Kaveh pouted as he climbed himself back onto the bed. “This is so unfair.”
"Not my fault you’re afraid of being tickled. Do I look like somebody who’d do that?”
“You would if you could,” Kaveh pointed out.
Alhaitham shrugged, neither confirming nor denying the accusation. He decided to change the subject. “After resting for a bit, are you feeling better?”
“Sure,” Kaveh responded before his stomach grumbled.
“Ah,” that’s right. This whole thing started because Kaveh was hungry. “Let’s go out for dinner.”
“Like, right now?” Kaveh raised an eyebrow.
“Yeah, it’ll be on me tonight,” Alhaitham said.
Kaveh jumped out of the bed and grabbed his brush to fix his hair, “Don’t have to tell me twice!”
They went to Lambad’s tavern for dinner. As soon as the two of them sat at one of the tables, Kaveh was quick to order himself some wine. Alhaitham followed suit.
“Are you sure you want alcohol before going back to work?” Alhaitham asked.
“I haven’t drank in a while and it’s on your tab. I’m not passing this up,” Kaveh simply answered as he began drinking.
By the time their dinner was served, Kaveh was already beginning to nurse a second glass. By the time they were done, Kaveh was on his third. Like the lightweight he was, he was already drunk, slurring his words as he spoke with Alhaitham. And here was where it was revealed what had been on Kaveh’s mind all week.
“About your crush, do you still speak with them on a regular basis?” Kaveh asked.
“We’re still on this? Why do you ask?”
“Shhh, just indulge me. I’ve been thinking about it all week. Yes or no?”
‘Yes, you can say that,” Alhaitham answered.
“You said you tried to woo them before but it failed. Why?”
“We got into a fight and stopped talking to each other for a while,” Alhaitham answered.
“Ha, that doesn’t surprise me,” Kaveh laughed. “If you were to get with them today, would you kick me out of the house?”
“Is this why you’ve been acting weird all week? You’re worried I’ll kick you out?” Alhaitham asked.
Kaveh frowned, “It’s a fair concern! You’d have a lover and I… “ Kaveh averted his eyes refusing to meet Alhaitham’s, “I would just be in the way.”
“You wouldn’t,” Alhaitham reassured him.
“How can you be so sure?”
Because you’re the one I’m in love with.
“You’d have nowhere to go if I kicked you out. Do you really think I’m that heartless?”
“No! It’s just…” Kaveh sighed, taking another swig of his drink. “You’re right, this is dumb. Despite everything you do occasionally have a heart.”
“That’s a little mean to say,” Alhaitham frowned. Did Kaveh really see him like that? Sure, they didn’t meet eye to eye but he had hoped after all this time he’d had figured out when it really mattered he’d never do anything to intentionally hurt Kaveh.
“You know what I mean,” Kaveh waved him off dejectedly and began staring into space.
“No, I don’t know what you mean,” Alhaitham crossed his arms.
“Ugh, do I really have to say it? You’re so logical you never think about others’ feelings, you are always quick to tease me, you’re incredibly ungrateful when I clean up after you, and yet…” Kaveh blushed, adjusting the feather in his hair as he averted his eyes once again from Alhaitham. “You’re the person I can count on the most.”
Alhaitham found his heart beating in his chest rapidly. If he didn’t know better he would’ve thought it was a love confession. Alhaitham was glad that he wore his headphones everywhere as they were currently hiding his red ears.
“I feel the same way,” Alhaitham replied.
“You do?” Kaveh asked his eyes widening in surprise.
“I do,” Alhaitham confirmed.
Kaveh smiled, the first genuine smile he’s given Alhaitham in a week. One that was radiant like the sun. Alhaitham missed that smile, and he loved it even more now that it was a smile for him .
“I’m glad,” Kaveh laughed as he raised his glass of wine. “To the roomies?”
“Sure,” Alhaitham replied as he raised his glass, clinking it against Kaveh’s. “To us.”
Things didn’t exactly return to normal, Kaveh still was acting strange, but at least Kaveh was no longer avoiding Alhaitham. The blonde continued to space out and randomly got mopey. Kaveh continued to insist it was work stress but Alhaitham knew better. He continued to press Kaveh, but he refused to say anything.
Alhaitham rarely sought help from others, he believed that books always provided him answers if he took the time to look for them but this problem was an exception. He knew from the start that no book would be able to provide a sufficient answer to what was going on, so he turned to the next best thing.
“Is Kaveh acting strange?” Nilou repeated before pondering Alhaitham’s question. “No, I don’t think so. Well, he’s been talking more about you lately but that has always fluctuated. Have you noticed anything, Dehya?”
“Can’t say that I have,” the mercenary responded with a shrug. “It might be just around you, Alhaitham.”
Alhaitham thought over that response. If nobody else had noticed Kaveh’s strange behavior, then that was probably the case.
“What has he been doing that’s weird?” Nilou asked.
“For a while, he avoided me,” Alhaitham answered. “He’s been spaced out too and often ignores me when I’m talking as if he’s always daydreaming. He also randomly gets all mopey and depressed like a sad rejected puppy.”
“Oh!” Nilou gasped, covering her mouth with her hand. “Poor Kaveh. He seems really sad!”
Dehya gave Nilou the side eye as if warning her to not say more.
“Do you have any idea what he’s sad about?” Alhaitham asked.
“You should ask him that yourself,” Dehya advised.
“He’s refusing to tell me anything,” Alhaitham huffed, crossing his arms. “I can’t just simply ask him why he’s sad.”
“That is not my problem, lover boy,” Dehya replied as she gave him a teasing smile. “You’re smart. You’ll figure it out.”
Kaveh had invited Alhaitham to have dinner with Cyno and Tighnari. He accepted the invitation. While Kaveh at one point left to go to the bathroom, Alhaitham saw his opportunity and seized it.
“I have to ask you guys something while he’s not here. Has he been acting strange lately around you?” Alhaitham asked.
Tighnari and Cyno looked at each other for a moment before Tighnari turned back to Alhaitham and answered, “In what way?”
“He’s been distracted, and has random bouts of sadness,” he said.
“Have you perhaps said something to upset him?” Tighnari suggested.
“I can’t think of anything,” Alhaitham replied.
“Okay, then maybe it’s not something of your own volition. Maybe he’s just going through something in his head and you’re just caught in the crossfire,” Tighnari added.
“Is there anything I can do if this is the case?” Alhaitham asked.
“I’ll go talk to him,” Tighnari stood up from the table. “If there’s anybody he’s willing to open up to it would be me.”
As the forest ranger walked to the bathrooms, Cyno turned to Alhaitham.
“I can’t say it’ll work with Kaveh, but whenever Tighnari is sad I tell him my jokes. He gets so annoyed he forgets he’s sad,” Cyno suggested.
Alhaitham scoffed, “Unlike you, I don’t pretend to be funny when I’m not.”
Tighnari and Kaveh returned to the table, with a stumbling more somber Kaveh. The rims of his eyes looked red as if he had just been crying. He was so drunk, Tighnari had to help him even get to the table. Alhaitham turned to Tighnari to ask him what was wrong but Tighnari simply held a finger to his lips.
“Alhaitham,” Kaveh said as he held his head, his voice devoid of any emotion, “I think I drank too much.”
“You want to go home?” Alhaitham suggested, already reaching out to his senior.
Kaveh nodded, allowing Alhaitham to take his arm. Kaveh turned to the other two and waved goodbye, before having Alhaitham help him out of the club.
“Oh, what’s this?” Kaveh pointed out as he turned in the direction of a random staircase and began walking toward it. “Is this the golden ratio?”
“This is not the time to be talking about ratios,” Alhaitham tugged on Kaveh’s arm and pulled him back, steering them toward the direction of their house.
As they walked past a garden Kaveh once again ran away and plucked off a flower from one of the flower beds. He took off his flower, threw it on the ground, and planted the flower in his hair.
“Kaveh, this isn’t your garden,” Alhaitham approached the drunk man cautiously.
“But I like how it looks,” Kaveh frowned.
Alhaitham bent down to pick up the feather Kaveh discarded. As he stood up with it in hand, Kaveh grabbed it.
“Hey, you’re going to regret losing it in the morning if you don’t—-“
“Alhaitham, do you like it?” Kaveh said, batting his eyes at his junior and pointing out the flower in his hair.
“I’d like it more if you didn’t pluck it off somebody’s yard.”
“Yes, but do you think it looks good on me?” Kaveh continued.
“Kaveh, we’re going to wake up the entire street if you don’t quiet down.”
“Yes or no! It’s a simple question!” Kaveh insisted, getting annoyed.
“Yes, you’re beautiful, now can we please step away from here?” Alhaitham said as he coaxed Kaveh out of earshot from the houses nearby.
“Really? You think I’m beautiful?” Kaveh’s cheeks flushed as he allowed Alhaitham to pull him back on course.
“You’re the most beautiful,” Alhaitham answered.
“Even more beautiful than the one you love?”
“I’d say you’re of the same rank,” Alhaitham answered teasingly.
Kaveh gave Alhaitham a lopsided smile before something else caught his attention.
“Oh! The Grand Bazaar is just around the corner, I wanna see if Nilou is still rehearsing for her next show—“
“Nope, we are not getting sidetracked anymore,” Alhaitham said as he grabbed Kaveh and pulled him closer.
“Let me go!” Kaveh wrestled against Alhaitham but in his current state, he barely had any strength compared to Alhaitham. “I’m a free man, you can’t restrain me—
“This is for your own good,” Alhaitham said as he lifted Kaveh up and threw him over his shoulder.
Kaveh was silent for a moment, likely trying to process what had just happened. Alhaitham took advantage of the moment to begin walking again.
“Hey! Put me down!” Kaveh insisted as he began to pound his fists against Alhaitham’s back.
Alhaitham lovingly scoffed at Kaveh, “Not a chance. You asked me to take you home. We’re doing just that.”
“This isn’t Liyue, it’s not like we made a contract that we have to go home,” Kaveh whined.
“But you planted the idea in my head and now I just want to read a book in peace,” Alhaitham countered.
“And what about me?”
“ You can sober up.”
“But—“
“You’re clearly so inebriated that you’re willing to cause a public disturbance wherever you go. You’ll be embarrassed once you sober up,” Alhaitham pointed out.
“And whose fault is that?” Kaveh complained.
“Pretending that it’s my fault you’re drunk is as ridiculous as pretending you’re not living with another man,” Alhaitham pointed out.
“Shhhh! Why are you saying this out in the open where people can hear that?” Kaveh lowered his voice.
“Please, I think everybody knows by now, especially with how much you talk when you’re like this.”
“Ugh, my life is ruined!” Kaveh began to cry. “Why does nothing ever go my way? First, I go into debt, then I have to face the humiliation of living with somebody when I should have a mansion of my own. I'm dealing with a broken heart and to add on top of that now everybody knows about my living situation?”
“Calm down, it’s not as bad as you’re making it sound,” Alhaitham said as he paused in front of their house to grab his keys. “They don’t know you’re in debt, they just think you’re staying with me until your own house is built.”
“Yeah right.”
“I’m serious, that’s what they say,” Alhaitham replied as he opened the door to their home and laid Kaveh down on one of the couches. “Don’t move, I need to grab you a trash can in case you need to vomit.”
“Don’t be ridiculous, I’m not going to puke,” Kaveh protested but he stayed put as Alhaitham returned with a trash can, some medications, and a glass of water.
“Drink,” Alhaitham insisted as he gave Kaveh the glass.
Kaveh wordlessly took the glass and took a sip of it.
“In the state you’re in, I’m afraid of what would happen if you fell asleep,” Alhaitham murmured as he placed the back of his hand against Kaveh’s forehead. “You need to sober up.”
“Sure, lemme just pull out my sober clothes,” Kaveh sarcastically grumbled as he took another swig of his cup.
“Ha, ha, I’ll stay up with you as you sober up,” Alhaitham said as he joined Kaveh on the couch and began to pull out his book.
“I don’t need babysitting,” Kaveh mumbled as he crossed his arms.
“You tried to run away from me several times as we walked home despite the fact that you asked to be taken home,” Alhaitham pointed out.
“And?”
“You clearly can’t be unsupervised for a while,” Alhaitham concluded as he opened his book.
“So what am I supposed to do to keep myself awake as you read and ignore me?” Kaveh rolled his eyes.
“Whatever you want, as long as you don’t fall asleep.”
Kaveh turned away from Alhaitham and leaned back against his chest. Alhaitham lifted his book and Kaveh scooted up so that the top of his head was right under Alhaitham’s chin.
“What are you doing?” Alhaitham questioned.
“Keeping myself awake,” Kaveh answered. “Might as well entertain myself with whatever you’re reading.”
“Suit yourself,” Alhaitham sighed, as he continued reading, making sure the pages were in view for Kaveh.
“What book is this by the way?” Kaveh asked. “This doesn’t seem like something you’d normally read.”
“What? You think I only read nonfiction?”
“I’ve only ever seen you read textbooks and academic papers, I didn’t know you were even aware fiction exists,” Kaveh pointed out, “Much less fantasy.”
“According to the reviews, it's romance as well,” Alhaitham added.
Kaveh gasped. “You? Read a romance novel? Ha, Celestia would sooner be shot out of the sky!”
“I’ve been reading romance novels since I was a kid,” Alhaitham stated.
“Alhaitham you are flipping the entire world upside down with these statements. Please tell me you’re joking.”
“I’m not,” Alhaitham stated matter-of-factly.
“You’re lying,” Kaveh insisted.
“Why would I lie to you about this?” Alhaitham questioned. “What would I even gain?”
Kaveh sat up to turn to Alhaitham, his eyes meeting Alhaitham’s own. For a brief second, those eyes glanced down toward Alhaitham’s lips. It happened so fast that if he wasn’t looking at Kaveh so intensely he would’ve missed it.
“Because that would make you even more perfect than you already are,” Kaveh said leaning forward.
Alhaitham grabbed Kaveh’s shoulders, trying to keep him at bay. His heart was beating like crazy but he knew he couldn’t let Kaveh kiss him. Not when he’s not sure if this was the alcohol making Kaveh seek the first person available, or if this was Kaveh’s own self finally taking the courage to act.
As Alhaitham managed to push Kaveh away, Alhaitham sat up and scooted away, placing some distance between himself and the blonde. Kaveh curled in on himself as it dawned on him what he had just attempted.
“Archons, I’m so stupid,” Kaveh said before sniffling.
“It’s okay, I’m not mad,” Alhaitham assured him. “It’s not the first time you tried to kiss me while drunk.”
“No, it’s not,” Kaveh sighed. “I don’t know why I expected this to be any different.”
“I’m not the only person either,” Alhaitham reminded Kaveh. “You’re clingy when you’re drunk. It’s just how you are.”
“But nobody else has ever rejected me,” Kaveh pointed out.
“I have my reasons.”
“Okay, I get it. You have feelings for someone else,” Kaveh began to tear up. “You don’t need to remind me.”
“Kaveh,” Alhaitham reached his hand out to Kaveh, “that’s not what I said.”
“Well, you might as well have,” Kaveh slapped Alhaitham’s hand away. “I don’t want your pity.”
“Kaveh--”
‘No! I don’t want to hear it. I don’t want to hear you talk about somebody that you’re in love with that’s not me .”
“Calm down, you’re drunk and getting irrational. You’re not thinking straight,” Alhaitham said. “You don’t mean what you’re saying.”
"Yes, I do. I always mean what I say!” Kaveh yelled, wiping furiously at the tears coming out. “It’s not fair.”
“Kaveh, listen to me,” Alhaitham grabbed Kaveh’s wrists and forced him to meet his eyes. “Do you mean it?”
“Yes! Yes, I mean it! I’m in love with you!” Kaveh confessed as he fought to wriggle his hands out of Alhaitham’s hold.
Alhaitham’s grip loosened, allowing Kaveh to escape. This time it was Kaveh who scooted away, tears falling down his face silently as Alhaitham processed what Kaveh had said.
“You’re… in love with me?” Alhaitham asked cautiously.
“I won’t repeat myself. I’ve humiliated myself enough.”
Alhaitham grabbed Kaveh’s hand, catching Kaveh’s attention.
“You’re not humiliating yourself,” Alhaitham said.
“I am,” Kaveh insisted. “I’ve been in love with you for years. I thought I had gotten over you, but then you… talked about that person and suddenly I realized I wanted to be that person, I was wishing you loved me like that.” Kaveh laughed bitterly, “I’m pathetic. Falling for the one person who doesn’t want me back.”
Alhaitham found himself at a loss for words. Never had he imagined those words would come out of Kaveh’s mouth. He truly believed that any chance he had was long gone and yet, here he was holding hands with the love of his life drunkenly confessing his feelings.
“Well?” Kaveh wiped his tears with his free arm. “Say something.”
Alhaitham couldn’t say anything. Not when there was a part of him in denial that any of this was real. Not when Kaveh was drunk, and there was a chance that anything that would happen would not be remembered. Not when Kaveh wasn’t in the right state of mind and confessed as a drunk sobbing mess pining after somebody he believed doesn’t feel the same.
“I can’t return your feelings,” Alhaitham replied. “Not when you’re drunk.”
“I see,” Kaveh said dejectedly as he released their hands and stood up. “I’m going to sleep.”
“Are you sure?” Alhaitham asked worriedly.
“I think I’m sober enough now,” Kaveh assured Alhaitham as he left the room and entered his bedroom with a loud slam.
The words were left unsaid but it was clear as day what message Kaveh was conveying: fuck off .
The next morning Alhaitham woke up and immediately headed toward Kaveh’s room. After the night before, Alhaitham was worried for Kaveh. He knocked on the door and was surprised to see that the door opened swiftly to an already awake Kaveh. He was fully dressed up, but the rims of his eyes were puffy and he looked as pale as a ghost. As soon as they locked eyes, Kaveh stared blankly at him.
“We need to talk,” Alhaitham said. “About last night.”
“No need. You already made everything quite clear last night,” Kaveh attempted to close the door but Alhaitham placed a hand on the door, effectively stopping the process.
“You were drunk, I didn’t want you to do something you’d regret,” Alhaitham answered.
“Yeah, well, it’s already too late for that,” Kaveh released his hold on the doorknob and walked into his room revealing why he was awake.
There was a briefcase open and currently in the process of being packed. Kaveh was nearly complete as he collected the last of some of his clothes and shoved them inside. Alhaitham crossed the room to join Kaveh and crossed his arms.
“What are you doing?” Alhaitham asked angrily.
“Isn’t it obvious?” Kaveh gestured to his briefcase, “I’m leaving.”
‘So you’re just going to leave? Just like that?”
“Calm down, it’s not permanent, at least not yet. I just, I need some time away from you.”
Kaveh moved to close the briefcase but Alhaitham grabbed his wrist preventing him from doing so. Kaveh turned to Alhaitham with an exasperated sigh.
“What? What do you want?” Kaveh asked as he tried to pry Alhaitham off him.
“I want you to listen to me,” Alhaitham said as he hardened his grip.
“I’ve always listened, Alhaitham. Always. I’m tired.”
“Then just answer this question for me. Be honest with me, don't just lie to get out of this situation. Did you mean it? Everything you said last night?”
Kaveh bit his lip and turned his head away, “Why do you always do this? Do you want to humiliate me more?”
“Just answer the question.”
“Yes,” Kaveh answered refusing to look at Alhaitham. “I meant it. Can you let go of me now?”
Alhaitham complied releasing Kaveh. Kaveh turned to his briefcase once again and closed it picking it up by the handle. The architect then turned to the scribe who was blocking his way out.
“Are you going to move?” Kaveh asked as he attempted to shove Alhaitham out of the way but Alhaitham stood his ground refusing to move. “What now? Can’t you just leave me alone?”
“Last night I said I couldn’t return your feelings,” Alhaitham said looking into Kaveh’s eyes.
Kaveh raised an eyebrow. “Yes, I remember. We’ve already established this.”
“Because you were drunk.”
“What does that have to do with anything?”
“I said, ‘I can’t return your feelings. Not when you’re drunk,’” Alhaitham clarified. “I didn’t say I don’t return your feelings.”
Kaveh’s eyes flickered up to meet Alhaitham’s and his eyes widened. “What?”
“Six years ago. We were still students at the Akademiya. I was reading a book when I suddenly heard a voice that caught my attention. I turned my head in the direction of that voice and then I saw you.”
Alhaitham lifted his hand and tucked a strand of Kaveh’s hair behind his ear and kept his hand there giving Kaveh a fond smile. “You in your blinding glory and I knew from the moment I laid my eyes on you that you were the only one.”
Kaveh lifted his hand to rest it on top of Alhaitham’s. Tears were starting to trickle down his face as he brought Alhaitham’s hand down to his cheek. Kaveh laughed.
“You Hravatats and your words. All this fluff and you still can’t bring yourself to say I love you,” Kaveh said with a smile creeping onto his face. “Six years, huh?”
Alhaitham nodded, “I didn’t lie to you when I said I’ve only ever loved one person.”
“Yeah, you didn’t,” Kaveh said.
Alhaitham grabbed Kaveh by the waist and pulled him closer. They were so close their lips were only mere inches apart. Kaveh tossed his briefcase onto the bed and looked into Alhaitham’s face once again.
“If I kissed you right now, you promise you won’t back away?” Kaveh asked, a teasing smile forming on his face.
Alhaitham smiled sweetly at the light of his life, “I promise.”
Kaveh surged forward so aggressively, he nearly toppled the two of them onto the floor. Luckily, Alhaitham managed to back himself into the wall as he grabbed Kaveh by the waist and hoisted him up. Kaveh released a surprised gasp before wrapping his arms around Alhaitham’s neck and his legs around his hips.
Alhaitham’s heart was threatening to come out of his body. His soul had probably already ascended to Celestia. He was kissing Kaveh. The same man he’s pined over for more than half a decade. He’s hardly ever indulged himself in fantasies, but Alhaitham knew whatever he could’ve conjured up wouldn’t be able to compare to what it really felt like to kiss the light of his life.
When they finally broke apart, Kaveh’s eyes were shining brighter than ever. Alhaitham gently helped Kaveh down but Alhaitham’s hands remained at his hips and Kaveh’shands had shifted down to his shoulders.
“Was that your first kiss?” Kaveh asked.
Alhaitham nodded.
‘What the fuck,” Kaveh groaned, covering his flushed cheeks with his hands. “How are you so good at this already?”
Alhaitham smirked, “I study a lot.”
Kaveh shoved at him playfully, “You dork. Don’t get too cocky. You could still use some practice.”
“Okay Senior Kaveh , teach me how it’s done,” Alhaitham said as he leaned forward again.
Kaveh began to laugh and shook his head. “You’ve never used that when we were students, and now you decide to say it?”
“Do you want to kiss me or not?” Alhaitham asked, growing impatient.
“I do,” Kaveh said as he met Alhaitham in the middle.