Archive of Our Own ^beta

If Alhaitham were to describe himself, he would probably use the word rational.

He does everything for a reason. He believes that everything should at least have a reason. Why should he waste so much time on something like painting a landscape if there’s no particular reason to? Of course, Kaveh would beg to differ.

Alhaitham reads books for the reason of gaining knowledge and more understanding. He works as a scribe for the large paycheck. Every action he does is carefully articulated for a certain outcome and that is how he likes to keep it.

Perhaps, this is one of the main reasons that he and Kaveh fight so much.

But, that is not to say that Alhaitham doesn’t do things out of his normal routine. There comes the time that he does something so out of the ordinary, that the people around him would stare in shock.

But, when they ask, he will always tell them this:

“It’s for a reason.”

He won’t specify what exactly, but usually, people who know of his nature choose not to question him further.

Alhaitham never bakes. But once, he made a cake. One that was very successful, he might add. And when Kaveh asked with a surprised look on his face, Alhaitham replied that it was for Collei’s successful entry into the Akademiya.

Alhaitham never reads romance books. But he did one time. And when his colleague questioned him, Alhaitham told her that it was for an ongoing research study about the effects of reading certain genres of books on the human body. It wasn’t a very helpful experiment, as the content was much too… cheesy for his taste. He had no reaction.

Ah, and another thing.

Alhaitham always sleeps alone. In his very own bed, with no one beside him to interrupt his much needed sleep.

But lately, he’s been sleeping with someone else. And it’s not even in his bed, but rather in that person’s. Yes, recently, he must admit that he’s been waking up facing another pair of eyes–whose owner of them is a man with blonde hair. He’s been falling asleep with a loose arm around his waist and a warmth that encompasses his side.

The person that he’s been sharing a bed with is none other than his roommate, Kaveh.

Additionally, this has happened not just one time either. It’s actually been quite a few.

But like the other instances, sleeping with Kaveh in his bed comes with its reasons.

There should be a reason. Always. Certainly. Yet somehow, this is one of the rare times that Alhaitham’s quite unsure.

i. A birthday.

Kaveh yawns, stretching his back with a crack that makes him wonder just how long he sat in a chair for last night. He shuffles down the hallway, still blinking his eyes rapidly with sleep. As he walks into the kitchen and sits himself at the counter, he looks up to find Alhaitham standing opposite to him.

There’s a blank look on the man’s face as he pours water into a glass. Kaveh stares skeptically yet silently. The further the glass fills, the more Kaveh panics. Alhaitham doesn’t seem to notice, more focused on staring into space.

Finally, when the water reaches the very brim, Kaveh reaches forward, grabbing Alhaitham’s wrist. The water sloshes around and spills ever so slightly. If Kaveh hadn’t stopped him earlier, it would have been a whole puddle.

“What are you doing?” Kaveh asks, his voice raising slightly.

And at his words, Alhaitham seems to snap out of whatever trance he was in. He blinks and he sets the jug down. “What?” He simply says, his voice quiet and almost… cautious.

Kaveh juts his chin towards the splash of water on the counter surface. “Are you off in your own little world or something? You almost made a mess…” His eyes shift over to the stack of books nearby.

“Oh.”

That’s all Alhaitham says. Just an “oh.” Not a single retort, not a single roll of his eyes, not a single movement on his face. He’s unreadable just as he’s always been. But for some reason, Kaveh finds himself concerned this time.

The younger is quiet as he turns around, his shoulders stiff. Kaveh watches him with wary eyes, leaning slightly over the counter. It’s rare for Alhaitham to choose not to argue with him and it’s even rarer to see him standing, facing away from Kaveh with tightened fists. Kaveh softens slightly and he stands up, fidgeting with his fingers.

“It’s– it’s fine, Alhaitham.” Still no response. “It’s early in the morning anyway. I’m off to work, ‘kay?”

Alhaitham can only give him a nod, one that’s so small that Kaveh almost missed it. His back remains turned, even when Kaveh opens the door, gives him a longing glance, and leaves the house.

Kaveh walks down the street, more quiet than usual. His mind is still fixated on that odd interaction with Alhaitham earlier. He pauses in the middle of his stroll as he realizes something. Alhaitham leaves for work at about the same time as Kaveh. So why wasn’t he dressed? He was still wearing his sleepwear, his hair tousled and his eyes awfully tired.

That’s puzzling. The only reason that he’ll take a day off for work is for when he’s sick. He didn’t hear a single cough or sniffle.

Alhaitham lets out a shaky sigh as he peeks over his shoulder to make sure that Kaveh’s out of the house. Then, he makes his way to his bedroom, his steps slow and heavy. The cup of water is long forgotten, left on the counter with no one with enough energy to drink it.

Today is his grandmother’s birthday.

Maybe he should have done something to celebrate like he usually does. It’s not anything special–he usually just goes out, orders a piece of dessert, and brings a padisarah to leave on her grave. But even this is too much for Alhaitham. It seems that this year’s birthday is particularly painful.

All he can manage to do, is lower himself weakly onto his bed. And after that, he just shuts down.

He doesn’t try to go back to sleep nor does he even attempt to close his eyes. Instead, with an empty gaze, he just stares at the wall.

But even after lying there for a long while, the bed starts to become uncomfortable. It’s quite ironic for a piece of furniture that’s supposed to bring relaxation. Yet at this moment, laying there only serves to make Alhaitham more conscious of everything around him. His breathing creates a stinging sensation in his chest. The hum of the fan makes his ears ache as he’s reminded of the way he would fall asleep on his grandmother’s shoulder to the same exact sound. The feeling of the blankets are not the same as the ones that she would knit.

Yet no matter how unbearable it feels, he makes no move to get up. He doesn’t get up to tame his messy hair and he doesn’t get up to eat something. He continues to lay there, looking straight ahead at the wall. He doesn’t know how long he stays like that.

What he does know is that through the nearby window, the sky has grown dark. He must have been lying in his bed for most of the day.

At this realization, he forces himself out of bed. His limbs feel heavy and he has to stop himself from falling back down. Holding onto any nearby surface, he walks back to the kitchen. There, he sees the untouched water, still sitting on the counter.

He should probably drink it before Kaveh notices.

Just as he’s reaching for the cup, there’s the sound of footsteps, as well as the door unlocking. Alhaitham’s eyes widen and he looks up, every muscle in his body stiffening once again. Kaveh’s going to find the cup of water and he’s going to question him–maybe point out that Alhaitham’s done nothing at all today.

He should have chugged the water quickly, but instead, in a panic, he chooses to set the cup down and rush off into the bathroom without a single greeting to Kaveh who’s just stepped into the house.

Kaveh simply stands at the entrance, his mouth agape as he watches the fleeing shadow disappear with a click on the door. He sets down his things and walks forward, his eyes landing on the cup of water, still filled to the very brim. His eyebrows knit together. Something’s wrong.

He goes to Alhaitham’s bedroom first to drop off a book he found. There, something catches his eye. A calendar, in the very middle of his desk. He steps closer and that’s when Kaveh takes in a shaky gasp. Right there, on this very date, the number is circled. Alhaitham never labels dates, but it suddenly hits Kaveh.

He stumbles back, cursing to himself. “I forgot,” he mumbles, his eyes saddening.

He rushes to the bathroom and stands at the door. He knows that it’s locked so he knocks desperately. “Alhaitham?” he calls out. “Are you in there?”

He’s met with complete silence.

“Alhaitham.” Kaveh’s voice quiets into a gentle, more patient tone. “It’s okay. You don’t need to hide from me. I… know what today is.”

“You do?” A soft, broken voice on the other side.

“Yeah,” Kaveh breathes apologetically. “I saw on your calendar. It’s your grandmother’s birthday right? …we used to pick flowers for her when we were younger, don’t you remember?” He pauses. “I forgot this morning, I’m sorry.”

It’s silent once more. And this time, Kaveh fears that he won’t respond again. Maybe Alhaitham’s angry with him for forgetting. Or maybe he just wants to be alone. That’s okay too.

But, to Kaveh’s surprise, the door clicks again and is pulled open.

“It’s fine,” Alhaitham mumbles, slowly looking up from the floor. Kaveh’s heart breaks at the sight. Alhaitham, he… he isn’t crying. But he still looks like he’s been shattered from inside out. He looks tired–his eyes heavy and dull, his warm tone now paler than usual. He looks small and much younger than he normally looks.

“Alhaitham…” Kaveh’s lips pull into a worried frown. Alhaitham stares, exhausted and defeated. “Can I come in with you?” He hesitantly steps forward.

Alhaitham hums. “That’s a bit inappropriate, don’t you think?” With the door open, Kaveh notices that his voice is rough and unused.

Kaveh huffs out a light laugh. “No, I just–” He shrugs pathetically. “I don’t know… let me do something for you at least?”

“You don’t have to,” Alhaitham replies, yet despite his words, he steps aside, allowing Kaveh to come into the bathroom with him. He watches from afar, as Kaveh takes a glance at his face before opening one of the nearby cabinets. There, he pulls out a soft, fluffy headband.

“Come here,” Kaveh ushers him forward. Slightly flustered, Alhaitham follows. Kaveh steps closer and he suddenly shoves the headband around his face, pushing all of his hair back. Alhaitham stares with a deadpan look.

Kaveh stifles a laugh. The headband, which Kaveh usually uses, has a cute little lion pattern all over it, making Alhaitham look ridiculous with it on. He can’t help but think that he looks sort of… cute. Though, he would never admit such a thing.

“What’s this for?” Alhaitham asks warily.

“You look tired.” Kaveh reaches up, tucking a stray piece of hair behind the headband. Alhaitham’s eyes widen at the action. “Rinse off and wash your face.” He gestures towards the nearby sink as he reaches to the side to hand him some face wash.

When Alhaitham stares reluctantly, Kaveh sighs though without any malice. “Come on,” he chides lightly. “I promise, you’ll feel much more refreshed.”

Eventually, Alhaitham follows his orders, leaning forward to splash his face with water. Kaveh watches quietly, as Alhaitham begins to wash his face, noticing just how sluggish his movements are. His chest hurts even more.

Once he’s done, Kaveh makes Alhaitham sit down on a nearby stool. He grabs a towel and takes Alhaitham’s chin in his hand, making him look up. Carefully, he pats at his damp face, making sure to be gentle around his eyes. As he dries his forehead, Kaveh’s heart only breaks further at the way Alhaitham doesn’t make any effort to fuss away and instead stares up at the older man with sad, heavy eyes.

“Are you hungry?” Kaveh asks softly. “Did you eat?”

Alhaitham shakes his head, a look of guilt flashing across his face.

“I can make something for you.”

“I’m not hungry.”

Kaveh practically wilts at that. He would love for Alhaitham to eat something for the betterment of his health. But today is his day, and he won’t push anything more. “Alright,” he simply says.

After, Kaveh reaches into the cabinet again, pulling out a few skincare products that he also uses. He pours some product into his hand and begins patting it onto Alhaitham’s face, swiping gently under his eyes and working the product into his cheeks. Alhaitham can only stare expressionless at the man.

“Is this really necessary?”

Kaveh moves on to the next product. “Shush. Let me take care of you,” he states. “I know today’s a hard day.” He gives Alhaitham a reassuring smile, making his breath hitch ever so slightly. “Would you rather I argue with you instead?”

Alhaitham’s quiet at that, so Kaveh continues to swipe his thumb against his skin.

“Maybe tomorrow,” he eventually whispers.

Kaveh’s smile grows, tapping Alhaitham’s cheek teasingly. Experimentally, he even cups his face, squishing his cheeks together, making Alhaitham grumble. Though, he doesn’t pull away from Kaveh’s touch, receiving the man’s care silently.

Once finished, Kaveh takes off the headband and puts it back. Then, he turns to the door and Alhaitham suddenly asks, “where are you going?” with a panicked tone.

Kaveh faces him with surprise. “Getting you new clothes? Stay put,” he orders, noticing the way Alhaitham’s shoulders relax.

A minute later, Kaveh comes back with comfortable clothes for Alhaitham to change into.

“Arms up.”

Alhaitham listens. Kaveh slips off his shirt, dutifully keeping his gaze away. Alhaitham’s awfully pliant like this, Kaveh finds as he helps him change. He doesn’t quite enjoy this realization. The way he so easily follows Kaveh’s orders with a blank look on his face, his focus always seeming to be on something else, makes Kaveh’s gut twist. He knows he’s hurting inside and Kaveh wants to take the pain away. Yet, he’s at a complete loss of how to do it.

“Okay,” Kaveh eventually speaks up. “I’m done.”

He leads them out of the bathroom. Alhaitham silently turns to walk away, but Kaveh calls out to him.

“Wait,” he blurts.

Alhaitham turns around.

“Do you… maybe–” Kaveh stutters. He knows one method that might ease the pain. But for someone like Alhaitham… he’s not sure it’ll work. Still, he forces the question out anyway. “Do you want a hug?”

Alhaitham’s lips part slightly in surprise. “What?” He blinks, surprise turning more into confusion. “I don’t know.”

“It might help!” Kaveh rushes to say, stumbling slightly over his words.

An eyebrow raise. “Is there any evidence on that?”

“Uh…” Kaveh laughs nervously, scratching at the back of his neck. “I think so? I swear I’ve read something in a book. Something about how it creates serotonin? Or– was it another word? I forgot. Whatever…”

Alhaitham’s lips pull up into a small smile. It’s clear he’s just messing with him.

Kaveh shrugs pathetically. They stand there, awkwardly in the middle of the hallway.

“You could at least try?” Kaveh asks.

Alhaitham doesn’t respond. But he does step closer as a wordless acceptance.

Kaveh hesitates for a moment before taking Alhaitham’s wrist, pulling him in. Quickly, before Alhaitham complains and says that it’s uncomfortable, which he’s done a few times, Kaveh adjusts their position. His hand comes up to the back of Alhaitham’s head, guiding it down to rest on his shoulder. Meanwhile, Kaveh inches closer until their bodies are pressing together, his other arm wrapping securely around Alhaitham’s torso.

To his surprise, Alhaitham relaxes into his touch, leaning closer into the embrace.

It’s quiet for a few seconds–or minutes, Kaveh doesn’t really know. He’s much too focused on holding Alhaitham safely and warmly. He knows all too well what grief feels like. So, on a day like this, he’ll put aside their differences and treat him with as much care as he can offer. He hopes that through his steady breathing, Alhaitham will understand that it’s okay to feel worse on days like this.

Alhaitham still hasn’t pulled away. Just as Kaveh shuts his eyes with contentment, he feels a slight wetness on his shoulder. And suddenly, like a strong gust of wind, he’s stumbling back with the sheer force of Alhaitham tightening his grip and leaning forward.

Kaveh gasps, realizing that Alhaitham’s hands are now grasping onto his body desperately, holding him as if to plead for him not to let go. Kaveh doesn’t plan to, and so his own grip tightens as Alhaitham backs him up against the wall, burying his face into the slope of his neck. His fingers cling with even more desperation onto any part of Kaveh’s body, pulling him closer and closer until the air is knocked out of Kaveh’s lungs.

“Alhaitham?” Kaveh asks, his chest filling with worry. He pets through his hair hesitantly as his ears pick up the sound of someone crying–Alhaitham crying.

It’s not loud, but the small sobs are enough to make Kaveh’s heart shatter into pieces. Just before, he seemed almost empty inside, with his dull remarks and blank gazes. Kaveh never realized that he was holding back this whole time.

“Haitham…” Kaveh whispers.

“Kaveh, Kave–” Alhaitham chokes on his own tears, his breath shuddering as quiet, yet desperate cries leave his throat. “I need–”

“I’m here,” Kaveh offers, holding Alhaitham as tight as he can. Even with his large build, Alhaitham curls into his body, fingers wrenched into the fabric of Kaveh’s shirt.

“I… can’t–”

“Can’t what?” Kaveh’s words are patient.

“I don’t know,” Alhaitham whimpers, his voice cracking painfully. “Just– just stay.” His words quiet to barely a whisper. “Please.”

“Okay,” Kaveh whispers back, combing through his hair soothingly. “I’ll stay. I’ll be here.”

The cries persist as Alhaitham grips onto Kaveh like he’s his life line. The sobs, the hiccups, it doubles to the point that Kaveh’s own throat tightens, not knowing what else to do except to continue to hold Alhaitham closely.

“It hurts,” Alhaitham cries softly.

“I know, I know it does. It’s okay, hm?” Kaveh blinks back a few of his own tears. “I have you. It’s alright. Just let it out, I’m here.” Kaveh’s whispers are soothing yet shaky, his emotions getting the better of him.

Alhaitham cries and he cries, grasping onto Kaveh repeatedly as if he’s slipping away.

Kaveh continues to hold him tightly, muttering small words of comfort. He doesn’t care if the wall behind him digs into his shoulder blades as Alhaitham leans into Kaveh hopelessly. He focuses solely on keeping the man in his embrace until his cries start to die down.

Now, only left with a few sniffles and hiccups, Alhaitham mumbles something else, his voice tired.

“You’re warm like her.”

“Ah,” Kaveh breathes, his hand never ceasing from brushing through Alhaitham’s previously tangled hair. “Is that a good thing?”

He feels Alhaitham nod against his shoulder.

“Okay then. Stay here as long as you please.”

But even after Kaveh speaks those words, Alhaitham pulls away anyway. He does it slowly and hesitantly, almost like he’s embarrassed to face the man. But, Kaveh only offers him a soft smile. The blonde man observes the younger’s face, taking in his tear-streaked cheeks and the glossy look in his eyes. He looks broken. This time, on both the inside and the outside.

Kaveh sighs, his own chest hurting with a sting. He swipes away a tear. He looks tired again, just like before.

“You should go to sleep, hm?” Kaveh hums softly, brushing at the front strands of his hair. Alhaitham can only let out a weak exhale, eyes trained to the ground. Kaveh lifts his chin up to face him. “Okay? You should rest.”

Alhaitham’s eyes fill with tears once more, making Kaveh panic. “But today…”

Kaveh shakes his head. “I’m sure your grandmother won’t mind if you celebrate tomorrow. Tomorrow, you’ll be in a much better mood.”

Alhaitham peers at Kaveh, a few tears escaping down his cheeks, which Kaveh helps to wipe away. He lets out a defeated sigh and steps away from Kaveh’s arms, turning to walk back to his own bedroom. But, Kaveh quickly stops him.

“Wait. With me.”

“What?”

“Sleep with me.” Kaveh’s cheeks warm slightly. “In my bed.”

Alhaitham can only stare, a dazed look in his eyes. It seems he doesn’t even have the energy to ask why, as he follows Kaveh into his room. Kaveh pulls open the sheets, urging Alhaitham to go in first. This way, he sleeps against the wall, where he’ll feel more secure and warm. Kaveh climbs in after, adjusting the blankets over their bodies.

Alhaitham stares at him quietly before whispering a small, “thank you.”

“Hm?” Kaveh tries his best to hide his surprise. “What for?”

Alhaitham grumbles. “You know what I’m talking about.”

Kaveh laughs. “Alright, alright,” he giggles. “You’re welcome. You should remind me when it’s her birthday next year. I’ll prepare some flowers for her.”

He’s met with a surprised look that slowly relaxes with a small smile. “Okay, Kaveh.”

Another moment of silence. Then, Kaveh inches closer.

“Hey,” he whispers. “You said that I’m warm, right?”

“I’m not repeating it.”

“Hmph,” Kaveh playfully responds. “Fine. I was going to offer something but I guess I’ll take it back.”

“Wait,” Alhaitham’s quick to blurt out. Instinctively, his hand finds Kaveh’s body, trying to tug him closer. Kaveh stares with an amused smile. “What… what were you going to offer?”

“This.” Kaveh eyes Alhaitham’s hand that’s already holding tight around his waist.

“Oh.” Alhaitham pulls his hand away, embarrassed.

Kaveh clicks his tongue. “No, no. Don’t back out now,” he teases. “Come here.” He pulls Alhaitham in, embracing him warmly. Alhaitham presses into his chest, almost immediately.

If Alhaitham lets out a few shaky cries that night, Kaveh doesn’t mention it, as he gently rubs circles on his back. And if Alhaitham’s tears soil his shirt twice more, Kaveh doesn’t say anything either. He only holds the man closer.

Surrounded by both warmth and comfort, the two of them eventually fall asleep. But, just before Kaveh drifts off, he makes a mental note to go out to the market tomorrow and buy ingredients to bake a cake.

ii. A cat.

Living in a house with someone else means that there’s bound to be changes, both big and small.

For example, Alhaitham and Kaveh now have a cat.

Well, this is but a temporary change. This cat–unnamed, as this is claimed to be a very crucial decision that’s yet to be made–is Collei’s. She’s a rescue, found deep in the rainforest, full of personality and curiosity. She has gray fur, with a constant grumpy look on her face, which Kaveh can’t help but be reminded of a certain roommate.

Collei showed up at their door just this morning, her arms full of the adorable furball.

“My room isn’t at all prepared for her!” Collei explains with a frown. “But I can’t leave her alone, she’ll get lost again. Plus, Master Tighnari is working all day today…”

So now, Alhaitham and Kaveh are stuck with this glaring cat for a whole day until Collei properly prepares for her new pet.

Though, “stuck” isn’t the correct word to describe it because Kaveh… Kaveh loves this cat. So much. Her fur is soft and she has the sweetest face when she isn’t hostile. Fortunately, she seems to love him back. She constantly rubs up on his leg, offering small kisses whenever she can.

Currently, she stalks over to him before climbing onto his lap and curling up, small purrs leaving her throat.

“Look, Alhaitham!” Kaveh whispers frantically, gesturing to the adorable cat in his lap.

Alhaitham barely looks up from his book. He simply hums and turns back to reading.

Kaveh gasps. “Are you sulking?”

That makes Alhaitham finally put down his book. He gives Kaveh an unimpressed look.

“What, pray tell, would I be sulking about?”

“The fact that she hates you?”

Alhaitham clears his throat. Yes, it’s true, the cat loves Kaveh. But she also despises Alhaitham. For no particular reason too. If he ever so reaches a hand out, she will hiss and jump away. Really, any single movement is enough for her to scowl and flee.

“Her opinion of me doesn’t matter,” Alhaitham replies, his voice neutral and unbothered. He picks his book up to continue reading. “She’s only here for a day.”

Kaveh rolls his eyes, ignoring his words as he chooses to carefully lift the cat up. The cat meows adorably before leaving small licks all over his face, starting from his cheeks, to the very tip of his nose. Kaveh giggles with a bright smile.

Alhaitham looks up from his book again. His jaw twitches and his eyes narrow at the sight.

Only for a day, he tells himself. Then, it’ll be back to just Alhaitham and Kaveh.

Only for a day, he’ll have to deal with the sight of Kaveh smiling and laughing with someone else, human or not.

Only for a day, he’ll have to keep witnessing Kaveh cuddling and cooing over a cat rather than–

Wait.

Alhaitham freezes, his grip tightening on the book. He grimaces and turns back to the page he left off on.

What am I thinking?

Nightfall comes and they find themselves in a predicament. The cat is now missing.

“We’re fucked,” Kaveh groans, clicking his tongue in prayer that the cat will meow back.

“Shouldn’t have looked away from her then,” Alhaitham sighs, getting up to help him look.

“I did for two seconds!”

Kaveh practically turns over the whole living room, much to Alhaitham’s disapproval. He makes any sound he can think of that may attract the cat, but to no avail, she’s gone. Alhaitham also makes an effort to look for her, knowing just how upset Collei will be if she finds out that the two adults she’s placed trust in have somehow lost a cat in a single day.

Just as Kaveh’s about to check under a pillow for the nth time, Alhaitham’s voice calls out from afar.

“I found her.”

Kaveh lets out a loud sigh of relief as he rushes over. “Oh, thank god.”

Then, he pauses once he realizes just where Alhaitham found the cat. The two of them stand at the entrance to Alhaitham’s bedroom. There, plopped just in the middle of his bed, the cat sleeps peacefully, her tail flicking gently. She stretches before rolling over to the other side, seeming to enjoy the plushness of the mattress under her.

Kaveh practically melts. Alhaitham only narrows his eyes, trying to convince himself that the sight isn’t at least a little bit cute.

But then, it hits him. He groans, a complaint already at the tip of his tongue.

“What now?” Kaveh turns to him with a frown.

“I can’t sleep then,” he states.

“What?” Kaveh looks at him oddly. “Why?”

“If I wake her up, she’s going to scratch my face off.” He gestures to the cat, still snoozing in the midst of his sheets.

“Ah…” Kaveh stifles a laugh. “You might be right for once.”

Alhaitham’s eye twitches. What does he mean, for once? “I’m always righ–”

“So sleep with me then.”

Alhaitham’s annoyed expression quickly turns into a teasing one. “Oh?”

“You know what I meant!” Kaveh sputters, his cheeks flushing. He backs away from Alhaitham, realizing that the two of them barely fit in the doorway. In fact, their shoulders have been touching this whole time.

Alhaitham does actually consider it though. Normally, he would say no in a heartbeat. But this time, something inside of him leans more towards a… different answer. He thinks back to the last instance. It was about two weeks ago, when Kaveh slept with Alhaitham after he–embarrassingly, he believes–broke down in his arms.

He hates to admit how that night consisted of one of the most comfortable sleeps he’s ever had in his life. The warmth of Kaveh’s chest and his steady breathing… Alhaitham can’t help but think about it over and over again.

One more time can’t hurt, right?

“Alright,” Alhaitham replies cooly, ignoring the way his heart skips a beat at the thought of sleeping with Kaveh again. “Lead the way.”

Kaveh glares at him suspiciously before walking off to his own bedroom, leaving the door open for Alhaitham to follow. It’s natural, how the two of them get ready for bed and climb under the sheets.

It’s not the first time that Alhaitham’s slept with Kaveh. But still, there’s one single and very prominent difference.

It’s awkward.

They aren’t cuddling or holding each other like last time. Alhaitham doesn’t have his face buried in Kaveh’s chest and Kaveh doesn’t have a single arm wrapped tightly around the other’s body. In fact, no single part of their bodies are touching at all.

Yes, they lay in the same bed. But they lay like wooden boards–stiff and facing the ceiling.

“Good night, Alhaitham,” Kaveh forces out.

“Good night.” Alhaitham’s voice is equally as strained.

Still, with the exhaustion of keeping up with a very active cat, and their increasing amount of work, the two of them still fall asleep, despite the tense atmosphere.

Alhaitham awakens first. The first thing that he always does is stretch, getting rid of any aches he’s gotten in his sleep. Yet for some reason, he can’t. His limbs feel heavy and almost trapped. He also notices how his body feels abnormally warm, and there’s a ticklish feeling against his neck, almost like someone’s breathing softly against his skin.

With a sleepy groan, Alhaitham forces his eyes open, adjusting to the sunlit room. He looks down and his hands tighten–on someone’s waist, he realizes–in surprise, at the blonde hair that faces him.

And suddenly, he becomes conscious of everything. His own arm is wrapped tightly around Kaveh’s waist. Kaveh’s arm is thrown over Alhaitham’s shoulder as he nuzzles softly into his neck. Their hips are pressed together as Kaveh has a leg hooked over Alhaitham’s whole body, keeping him securely in place like a koala.

Hold on.

Alhaitham’s breath hitches. Since when were they sleeping like this? He could have sworn they were very far apart before they fell asleep, without a single inch of skin touching. Now it seems like every inch is.

Alhaitham tries to shift away but to no avail, Kaveh murmurs something and only tugs him into a locked embrace.

Alhaitham contemplates for a while, fighting off the drowsiness that threatens to overtake him because of how warm and comforting Kaveh’s body is on his. And just as Kaveh nuzzles into his neck for the fourth time as if he can’t get enough, Alhaitham starts to remember. His memory is a little fuzzy but he recalls waking up in the middle of the night and–

“Kaveh?” Alhaitham glances down at the hand that’s inched its way over to his waist.

No response. Of course, he’s asleep. Alhaitham notices just how much Kaveh has moved closer to him over the span of just a few hours.

Still, it’s the middle of the night. He’s sure Kaveh’s just confused and made a mistake. Carefully, he finds Kaveh’s hand and moves it off of his waist. He tries to back away to create that same distance from before.

But somehow, his hand finds Alhaitham’s waist once again, holding tighter this time.

“...don’t go.”

Alhaitham freezes. Though it’s dark, he can catch a glimpse of Kaveh’s eyes that are barely open, a sleepy, dazed look in them. There’s a small frown–or pout–on his lips and his voice when he said those two words sounded almost scared or sad.

Alhaitham looks down once more. Kaveh’s hand isn’t on his waist anymore though. Rather, it’s vice versa. He shuts his eyes, trying to get his memory to work once more.

“Kaveh,” Alhaitham mumbles sleepily. His eyes are heavy and he knows he can’t stay awake much longer. Suddenly craving a certain someone’s warmth, he shuffles closer, making Kaveh tense ever so slightly. Then, Alhaitham slithers his own arm over Kaveh’s waist, urging him to press up nearer against his body.

Kaveh lets out a relieved sigh.

“Go back to sleep,” the younger whispers.

“Mmh ‘kay…”

But just before Kaveh does drift back to sleep. He adjusts his position so that his face is buried into Alhaitham’s neck. He throws an arm and a leg over Alhaitham’s side, pulling him further into his warmth.

Alhaitham has never fallen asleep so quickly before.

So that’s how they’ve ended up in this position. Kaveh’s body is warm and soft against Alhaitham’s. He’s never seen him so relaxed, not a single amount of tension in his muscles. And because of this, Alhaitham chooses not to move. Maybe he’ll just stay in this moment for just a little while longer.

Though, he does lean back slightly, curiosity getting the better of him. Now, Kaveh’s sleeping face is visible. He looks peaceful, a small smile on his lips as he’s snuggled up against him. Alhaitham could almost say that he looks… pretty. His features are void of any worries, leaving Alhaitham to admire his long eyelashes and soft lips.

Experimentally, he brings a hand up to caress his cheek. And to his surprise, Kaveh hums softly and leans into his touch like a cat (ironic, considering the guest still residing in Alhaitham’s bedroom).

Alhaitham feels something weird in his chest.

He thumbs at his cheek over and over, observing the way Kaveh relaxes against his hand. Alhaitham’s gaze follows his every small movement, feeling his own lips pull into a fond smile. He never knew that Kaveh would be so affectionate in the morning.

A minute or two later, Kaveh rouses. Panicked, Alhaitham quickly pulls his hand away, strategically placing it on Kaveh’s lower back, just to feel the slight curve of it as well as its movement as he whines softly and stretches.

Alhaitham stares silently, watching Kaveh slowly wake up enough so that he can blink his eyes open. But, much to his dismay, when he does open his eyes, he wholeheartedly jumps. “Ah!” Kaveh stares with wide eyes.

Alhaitham feels his stomach drop and he lets go of Kaveh’s body.

He knew it. Alhaitham was probably just dreaming back then. There’s no way that Kaveh would ever want to be held by him on purpose. It was all just a mistake and he had read the situation horribly wrong.

But then, Kaveh takes his arm and forcefully puts it back around his body. He leans in, bringing Alhaitham back into the same cuddling position. To be shocked is an understatement.

“Didn’t I tell you not to let go?” Kaveh laughs with a lazy smile, seeming to still be in a dazed state from sleep.

“But you…” Alhaitham looks at him with confusion.

“Oh, are you talking about me getting scared?” Kaveh asks, giving Alhaitham an innocent look. The younger gulps, trying not to think about just how close their faces are. Kaveh seriously needs to wake up properly and realize the current situation, otherwise Alhaitham might somehow lose his mind.

“Yes,” Alhaitham whispers.

“Look behind you.” Kaveh scrunches his nose teasingly.

Alhaitham does, straining his neck slightly. And now, it’s his turn to jump, making Kaveh laugh again. There, standing on the edge of the bed and just behind him, is the cat. She meows, peeking over Alhaitham’s shoulder, her gaze solely focused on Kaveh, the one person that she adores besides Collei.

“Since when did you get here?” Kaveh asks the cat with a loving smile.

Alhaitham clears his throat, suddenly feeling embarrassed. Did this cat just waltz into their room silently and watch the two of them cuddle to their hearts’ content? They’re roommates for god’s sake, not… lovers.

“She’s going to claw my eyes out.”

Kaveh shushes him with a slight glare. “Just wait and stay still. Let’s see what she does.”

Alhaitham doesn’t even have the energy to argue. He waits for a moment. And to his surprise, the cat hops over Alhaitham’s body. Then, with a flick of her tail, she settles in the small area between their bodies. They adjust their arms to allow her some space and what’s even more shocking, is that the cat suddenly turns and curls up to Alhaitham’s chest, purring softly.

With round eyes, the two of them look up to face each other, both with a similar expression as if to ask, “what just happened?”

“I thought she hated you,” Kaveh whispers with wonder. “Did you secretly befriend her at night?”

“I don’t think so.” Alhaitham raises an eyebrow. “I couldn’t move the whole night because of you.”

“O-oh,” Kaveh sputters. It’s at that moment, that he starts to realize just how close their faces are. They both clear their throats awkwardly and back away, though their arms still wrap around each other, now with a cat between them who continues to purr with contentment.

They look fondly at her before the both of them doze off back to sleep.

“Collei!” Kaveh holds the cat protectively as he stands at the doorway. “I have a question. One that you should really consider.”

Collei tilts her head questioningly.

“Can we keep the cat?”

Alhaitham almost chokes on his coffee in the middle of the kitchen.

Collei sighs.

“No.”

iii. A nightmare.

Usually when Kaveh’s working at home, it’s quiet. He’s always up during the late hours of the night, fixing blueprints and drawing up designs. It is usually at this time that all the nearby shops are closed, there’s rarely anyone wandering the streets, and when Alhaitham is already asleep. Though, he’s never been loud in the first place.

Kaveh assumed that tonight wouldn’t be any different.

But now, he stares at the current blueprint laid out on his desk. His hand is in midair, pencil in his grasp, as his eyes follow the long, accidental streak of graphite that spans the whole diagonal of the paper. It’s certainly not supposed to be there.

He blames the loud thump that he just heard a minute ago. The sound made him jump so hard that his hand, which was carefully sketching a corner, jerked and somehow made it to the other side of the paper. It came from the nearby room.

Alhaitham’s room.

Still, adamant on not interrupting his focus, he ignores it, assuming that Alhaitham may have just bumped into the wall or knocked something over in his sleep. Kaveh picks up an eraser. But, just as it touches the paper, he freezes again, his ears picking up something else.

There are still thumps. But now, they’re accompanied by muffled cries, almost like someone’s being strangled.

That’s when Kaveh sets down everything in his hand and walks out of his room in a hurry. He finds Alhaitham’s door, but he stands there for a good moment, hesitating.

The cries and thumps have stopped. Kaveh must have been hearing things. Still, something nags in his chest. Somehow, through the slight shuffling sound inside, worry still builds up and gets the best of him. He pushes the door open anyway.

Kaveh stands at the doorway, peering curiously at Alhaitham who’s now sitting up in bed, breathing heavily. Even with the hallway serving as the only source of light, he can see just how wide his eyes are and the way his chest heaves with panic. Kaveh stumbles forward with concern.

Alhaitham doesn’t seem to notice him though. Instead, he searches around the room frantically before fumbling with the nearby lamp and clicking it on. He looks up and Kaveh can see the way Alhaitham’s breath hitches as they make eye contact.

Kaveh gives him a worried look, slowly stepping closer to the bed.

“Hey–”

“Are you hurt?”

That is the first thing that comes out of Alhaitham’s mouth. It isn’t a “what are you doing in my room?” or an “it’s late, Kaveh.” It’s a genuine question, spoken with such a vulnerable, shaky voice, that Kaveh only spirals more in confusion.

He’s dumbfounded, to say the least. It’s supposed to be Kaveh who asks Alhaitham if he’s okay, not the other way around.

“What?” is all Kaveh can force out.

“Are you hurt anywhere?” Alhaitham repeats, his eyes searching Kaveh’s body, as if to check for any wounds. His hands clench around the sheets, almost like he’s holding back from grabbing something else, or someone.

“Alhaitham, what? I’m confused.” Kaveh steps closer, his own hands fidgeting, not knowing what to do. “What are you talking about? I…” He eyes Alhaitham’s shaking figure. “I should be the one asking you that.”

Alhaitham blinks as if he’s snapped out of some trance. He forces his eyes down to his lap, his hair falling over his face.

“Nevermind,” he grits out. “Go back to your room, Kaveh.”

Kaveh places a hand on his hip, tilting his head interrogatively. “No. You’re being weird. Did something happen?”

Alhaitham’s quiet. The room is quiet. Yet, Kaveh can hear Alhaitham’s fast-paced breathing that’s never quite died down yet.

Then, he speaks again, his voice softer, even more scared than before.

“Give me your hand.”

Kaveh narrows his eyes, suspicious. “Why?” But still, he gives his hand anyway, slowly holding it out for Alhaitham. The younger’s head shoots up and he takes it, tugging Kaveh close so fast that he almost trips. Then, Alhaitham goes on to examine his entire arm, turning it in different angles as if to check for any injuries. His eyes move frantically, his lips parted with fearfulness.

Kaveh can only stand before Alhaitham, completely perplexed. He watches as he takes his other hand and examines that arm too.

“You’re not hurt at all?” he whispers.

“No,” Kaveh laughs nervously. “I’m– I’m fine, really…”

But when Kaveh’s eyes meet Alhaitham’s again, that’s when it hits him. All the signs start to make sense–the heavy breathing as soon as he woke up, the exhaustion in his eyes as if he struggled to get any sleep, and the constant checking for something horrible that isn’t reality.

Kaveh’s voice lowers, cautiously.

“Haitham… did you have a nightmare?”

That makes the man’s whole body stiffen, as if it wasn’t already before.

Kaveh continues, “...and was it about me getting hurt somehow?”

Alhaitham suddenly lets go of Kaveh’s hand at his question. He looks up at Kaveh with a weak glare. “What do you think?” he snaps.

Kaveh stares half surprised and half offended. Still, his voice is soft when he says, “hey, I’m showing genuine concern for you here.” Slowly, he sits down beside Alhaitham on the bed, peering at him worriedly. “I’m no stranger to nightmares.”

Alhaitham glances at him with sad eyes before looking away. “It was nothing serious,” he mumbles, though his voice still tremors. “I already told you to go back to your room, didn’t I?”

“Nothing serious,” Kaveh wonders to himself. “Yet there are tears in your eyes.” He leans in to get a better look.

Alhaitham turns his head further, preventing Kaveh from looking anymore. As a result, Kaveh’s gaze wanders down to Alhaitham’s hands, where they rest in his lap, fidgeting.

“I told you to go.”

Alhaitham says those words but his voice is still weak and far from assertive. His hands… his fingers… they reach out ever so slightly in Kaveh’s direction.

“Alhaitham…”

“Go. Just– just leave.”

But Kaveh watches. He watches with a bated breath as Alhaitham’s hands twitch and his fingers clench, inching closer over the fabric of the blankets and more towards Kaveh. His movements are hesitant, but so full of a need that’s obvious to Kaveh even in the dim room.

Just from merely watching his movements, Kaveh understands.

And slowly, very slowly, he crawls closer to Alhaitham so that he’s sitting right in front of him. And then, he leans forward, pulling the man into his arms.

Immediately after, like a switch being flicked, Alhaitham just breaks down. He starts crying, even faster than the last time Kaveh held him. Faster and… harder. He lets out a loud, choked sob as he holds onto Kaveh tightly, fingers grasping at his back, twisting into the fabric of his already wrinkled shirt.

Kaveh’s heart shatters at the cries that leave Alhaitham’s throat and the damp feeling on his chest.

“I won’t go,” Kaveh whispers. “I can stay if you want me to.”

“Please,” Alhaitham hiccups. “–stay.”

“Okay, okay,” the older reassures, adjusting his arms around Alhaitham to provide him more security.

Even when Kaveh’s back hurts from leaning forward, he continues to smooth down Alhaitham’s hair and massage his back. His broad figure shakes as he holds onto Kaveh like his life depends on it. Kaveh shifts closer, whispering small words of comfort.

A few minutes pass, just like this. Kaveh listens intently as Alhaitham’s cries quiet down.

“I’m sorry,” Kaveh laughs sheepishly. “I keep making you cry.” He pulls away to peer at Alhaitham’s face. The man sniffles, his lips reddened from the tears that have touched them. Kaveh’s eyes soften and he helps wipe away the dampness left on his cheeks.

“It’s– fine,” Alhaitham mumbles, his eyes shining once more. “My fault. It’s my fault.”

Kaveh feels the crack in his heart deepen at his words, frowning worriedly. It’s a rare occurrence that Alhaitham admits anything’s his fault. The fact that he’s saying it during a vulnerable moment is truly gut-wrenching.

“But it’s not your fault,” Kaveh rushes to say. Alhaitham only stares like a sad cat, tears dripping down slowly but surely. The blonde sighs fondly, wiping at his face gently. “You’re still my junior, you know? Cry on my shoulder all you want. I’ll lend it to you.”

Alhaitham’s tears start to dissipate at his words. Instead, he begins to grow almost… flustered–eyes widened, cheeks warm and pink under Kaveh’s touch. He hurriedly looks away, which only reminds Kaveh more and more of when he was younger.

“So…” Alhaitham clears his throat. “If I’m still your junior, will you continue to hold me?”

Kaveh chokes. “What?”

“I mean–” Alhaitham shakes his head, embarrassed. “I like when you hug me, that’s all,” he admits quietly.

“Really?” Kaveh immediately brightens at his words, as he smiles giddily.

Alhaitham can only nod. He knows that if he opens his mouth, he’ll say something he shouldn’t.

Really, he wants to add. You make me feel safe. You make my heart feel weird. I don’t know what’s going on. But my feelings–

“Then, come on.” Kaveh suddenly gets up. “Let’s go to my room. You still need your sleep.” He struggles to hoist Alhaitham out of the bed, but once he’s standing, he takes his hand and leads him out of the room.

It almost feels like second nature for Alhaitham to climb into bed with Kaveh right next to him. The two of them face each other, blinking tiredly. Kaveh’s face wears a small, relieved smile. Alhaitham’s lips are still pulled into its usual frown, but his chest feels lighter than before.

Still, there’s a small part of his mind that makes him doubt. What if he’s still stuck in that nightmare and this comforting moment isn’t real at all?

Out of nowhere, Alhaitham reaches a hand forward. He grabs at the open slit of Kaveh’s shirt.

Just make sure. One more time.

He pulls at the fabric so that it reveals more of his chest–more of his skin. His eyes scan the area, checking for any traces of blood or wounds. It was just a dream, he tries to tell himself, yet he can’t seem to get the haunting images out of his head.

“Pervert,” Kaveh whispers into the silence of the night.

Alhaitham lets go. “Shut up,” he mutters.

Kaveh’s silent for a moment, seeming to notice the way Alhaitham’s breathing picks up again. Then, he gently takes Alhaitham’s hand and places it back on his chest. There, he can feel his heartbeat, strong and alive.

“Alhaitham,” Kaveh calls silently, his tone serious this time. “I’m not hurt. I promise.”

Alhaitham can only stare skeptically, but he continues to press his hand firmly to Kaveh’s chest, feeling the familiar thump-thump sensation. He sighs defeated before shifting closer.

That night, it is Alhaitham who pulls the other in close, burying his face into Kaveh’s chest, feeling the pattern of his breathing. He holds as tight as he can, as he tries to prevent any harm from coming to the blonde. And just like the few times before, he falls asleep easily.

iv. A drunk and cold Kaveh.

A shiver runs down Alhaitham’s spine. The evening is awfully cold. Usually, in conditions like these, he would either be asleep or simply reading a book, warm under the roof of his home.

But just earlier, Kaveh insisted that they go out to catch up with Cyno and Tighnari. He never mentioned that such an event would be accompanied with drinks. Alhaitham remembers staring from across the table, watching as Kaveh’s voice became louder, his cheeks more flushed, and his movements more clumsy.

So now, he finds himself outside, walking down the street, dragging a drunk Kaveh who’s currently clinging to his whole side.

Suddenly, the man giggles, leaning close to Alhaitham’s earpiece as if to ensure that he heard the sound. Which, he did. And he tries not to let his mind stray to the thought that it sounds… nice.

“Hey, Haitham…” he mumbles, mid-laugh.

“What?” Alhaitham glances at him. Kaveh’s whole body is pressed against Alhaitham’s, making it hard to focus.

“Knock knock.”

Alhaitham sighs.

“Who’s there?”

“Me.”

He pauses, staring at Kaveh with skepticism. “...me who?”

Kaveh gives him a sly smile, his eyes droopy as he leans in close again before whispering a few quiet words that make Alhaitham’s whole body increase in temperature.

“Me and you.”

Alhaitham’s eyes shoot open and his heart does that weird flip again. He’s never regarded jokes as anything important or worth considering. Yet, this stupid, stupid, joke that Kaveh just made somehow has flustered him to no end.

Not knowing what else to do, he elbows Kaveh to create some much needed distance.

“You’re drunk, Kaveh, stop.” Alhaitham stutters a little at the end. Actually, since when did he start stuttering?

“You think I don’t know that?” Kaveh scoffs. He stumbles backwards ironically proving his point. Alhaitham quickly catches him by the waist, and to his demise, his efforts to create any distance has failed. In fact, they’re even closer than before, with Kaveh nuzzling into his neck.

“Then you should stop drinking. Don’t you want to keep you living with me a secret?”

“Yes, of course!” Kaveh replies, giggling for no particular reason. Alhaitham raises an eyebrow at his sudden indifference to the matter. Kaveh continues, “but I’m actually concerned about something else right now.”

“And that is?”

“When I’m drunk, you’re always there to bring me back.” Kaveh hiccups momentarily. He frowns with confusion at Alhaitham. “Even! Even if you’re pissed at me. Why is that?”

Alhaitham sighs. Kaveh’s slipping down again. He places both hands on his waist this time, hoisting him back up on his feet.

“Because you’ll never find your way back to the house if I don’t,” he bluntly replies. He recalls the one time when Kaveh had gotten horribly lost when Alhaitham decided to walk quietly behind him. Somehow, he ended up at Cyno’s place. From then on, Alhaitham always walks either right next to Kaveh, holding his drunk self up, or in front, if Kaveh’s a little less intoxicated and can walk on his own.

Kaveh furrows his eyebrows and nods dutifully. He tries to look serious, but Alhaitham can’t quite take him literally with the way his cheeks are reddened and his eyes dazed.

“Right,” Kaveh finally speaks. “I need to–” he hiccups again with a lazy smile. “I need to get back home.”

Alhaitham falters in his steps. He turns to look at Kaveh, who still hangs off his shoulder, peering up at him with sparkles in his eyes. Though he’s surprised, this isn’t the first time Kaveh’s called it that. Still, it makes Alhaitham feel happy whenever he does, as it’s such a rare occurrence.

“Home?”

Kaveh giggles, his eyes crinkling beautifully. “Home.”

Alhaitham’s lost count of how many times his heart’s skipped a beat.

Once they get home, (home, Alhaitham still can’t get over it), he brings Kaveh to his bed, making him sit at the edge. He helps him change out of his clothes, smiling softly at the way Kaveh’s eyes can barely stay open as he lifts his arms to let Alhaitham take off his shirt and put a new one on. Suddenly, Alhaitham’s reminded of that day–the day when Kaveh did the exact same for him in the bathroom on his grandmother’s birthday. He still thinks about it. Everytime he does, his heart flutters.

Kaveh can only stare with that same lazy smile paired with flushed cheeks and a tilted head, his hair falling over his face prettily. Truly, a distracting sight, Alhaitham finds himself admitting.

Just as he begins taking out the feather and red clips in his hair, Kaveh suddenly gasps, making Alhaitham startle. He reaches out and grabs one of Alhaitham’s hands, peering at it with a worried look.

“You’re hurt!”

Alhaitham looks at him impassively before kneeling down in front of Kaveh so that he doesn’t have to continue to strain his neck trying to inspect his hand for whatever reason. But, when he does look himself, he realizes it’s merely a small papercut, that Kaveh seems to be so fixated on.

“It’s… fine? Kaveh. It’s just a small cut.”

Kaveh’s lips pull into a small pout. “But those sting.”

Alhaitham gives him an amused look. “It’s really–”

But Kaveh still shakes his head stubbornly, looking downwards into Alhaitham’s eyes with a now determined expression. “No, I– I’m going to get a bandage. Wait here.” He suddenly stands up.

He doesn’t quite make it very far though. Still drunk, he can barely walk and he stumbles forward, forcing Alhaitham to shoot up and catch him against his chest before he falls.

Alhaitham expects Kaveh to melt against his body (like he usually does). But instead, he growls. He pushes Alhaitham weakly. “Don’t get in my way!” His voice is slurred and probably quieter than he intended it to be.

“Senior,” Alhaitham says with a lower voice, effectively making Kaveh’s eyes widen. He always refused to use that title, but if it means that Kaveh will finally listen to him, then he’ll oblige.

Now, the blonde man is flustered, both at the change in tone and the sudden use of the title that he doesn’t often use. In fact, he’s so flustered to the point that he obediently allows Alhaitham to guide him to sit back down on the bed. Alhaitham returns to kneeling before Kaveh, staring up at him with a teasing tilt of his head.

“What were you doing?” he asks. It’s becoming harder and harder for Alhaitham to hold back a smile.

“What else?” Kaveh huffs. “I’m taking care of you. Like I have for a long, long time.” He wilts after that, sulking. “You haven’t noticed?”

Oh, Alhaitham’s noticed alright.

He’s noticed the small acts of care that Kaveh offers him. When Alhaitham falls asleep on the divan with his book still in hand, he will wake up and find the book set on the table with a nearby pillow placed under his head. Sometimes, when Alhaitham’s particularly tired from work, Kaveh will purposely leave out an extra cup of warm tea–never coffee, because he knows Alhaitham needs to sleep. When Alhaitham takes off his earpieces with an annoyed frown when he notices that they’ve been making odd beeping noises, Kaveh will take them, disappear for a while, and silently return them fully repaired.

“I have noticed. I just don’t understand why,” Alhaitham finally replies.

“I don’t know either.” Kaveh bites his lip sheepishly, his eyes darting away as he swings his legs back and forth.

Alhaitham watches him carefully. He knows his body language. He knows how he acts when he’s lying.

“Yes, you do.”

Kaveh whips his head to look at him with a glare. “No, I don’t.”

“I think you do.”

“I think I don’t.”

“Senior,” Alhaitham sings teasingly again, knowing just how badly the word makes Kaveh falter. After this night, he will never use this title again. But just this once, just to indulge himself, he’ll use it purely to see how Kaveh shys away with a small smile.

Kaveh scrunches his nose. He furrows his eyebrows. Then, he unfurrows them. He narrows his eyes and unnarrows them. He glances around the room, scanning briefly. Now, he’s not only lying, but weighing his options. Alhaitham doesn’t know what options exactly.

Kaveh flops backwards onto the bed, throwing an arm over his face, mumbling to himself. For a second, Alhaitham thinks he’s asleep.

But just then, he sits up with a small huff.

“Fine,” he mumbles. “I’ll tell you! But you have to keep it a secret.”

“From who?”

“From Alhaitham.”

Alhaitham snorts. It seems that after Kaveh laid down for just a minute, like his whole mind had reset, he’s somehow forgotten who exactly he’s talking to. “Alright.” Alhaitham shrugs, leaning forward on one knee. “So tell me then. I won’t tell… him.”

Kaveh nods. He shuffles closer to the very edge of the bed before leaning down, positioning himself right by Alhaitham’s ear. Yes, Alhaitham even took his earpieces off.

Then, Kaveh whispers a few words, softly and shyly.

“Because I might love him.”

Alhaitham is taken aback. He pulls away quickly, almost falling onto the floor if he hadn’t grabbed onto the bed for balance.

“Kaveh–”

And then, Kaveh flops back onto the bed, clearly unable to keep himself up anymore. His head must have been spinning for a while but he still made the effort to tell Alhaitham… tell Alhaitham that he–

“You love me?” Alhaitham stupidly parrots.

No response.

He sighs.

This really should be a conversation for another day, now that he thinks about it. Kaveh isn’t in his right mind. He’s not sure if the words he had just spoken were a joke like the one he told just before. Still, even with his doubts, Alhaitham can’t keep himself from bringing a hand up to his face, trying to stop the hot feeling that spreads across his cheeks.

Stumbling, he gets up and is about to leave, when a hand suddenly grabs onto his wrist, turning him back around. Kaveh sits up again, with the help of Alhaitham’s arm, swaying even more than before. He stares up at him with pleading eyes, which at this moment, Alhaitham finds incredibly hard to resist.

“Wait. Sleep with me.”

Alhaitham gives him an odd look. “You’re drunk.”

Kaveh grumbles. “Not like that! How many times do I have to tell you–” He groans. “You have a sick, sick mind, you know that?” But then, he pauses, his voice quieting, now laced with clear exhaustion. “It’s just… I’m cold.”

You don’t say? Alhaitham stares at the man.

It’s the middle of the night, plus Kaveh didn’t even bother to put the blankets over himself. Of course he would be cold.

Yet, the only solution he could think of was Alhaitham sleeping with him.

…maybe the thing he said wasn’t a joke after all.

Alhaitham slowly stands up. Effortlessly, he lifts up Kaveh, adjusting him and making him lie down on the bed as he folds back the sheets. Kaveh smiles up at him with droopy eyes. Alhaitham gulps. With shaky hands, he leaves for a moment to change into a new set of clothes. He finds himself knocking a few things over in the process, his mind much too focused on a certain someone.

When he walks back into Kaveh’s room, he finds the man sitting up again. Alhaitham hums fondly and sits down next to him, patting the empty spot on the bed.

“Lie down. Stop sitting up when you’re dizzy enough already.”

Kaveh nods. “I am dizzy.” He grins. “But I was waiting for you.”

Alhaitham breathes out a soft, surprised laugh. “Okay. But I’m here now. So…”

He feels a warm and soft pair of lips on his skin. Alhaitham sucks in a breath, almost choking on the sudden intake of air. His brain short circuits for a moment before realizing that Kaveh had just grabbed his face and suddenly pulled him in to press a kiss on his cheek.

Kaveh stays there for a while, a laugh bubbling in his throat. When he pulls away, he whispers against Alhaitham’s ear, his breath fanning lightly against his skin.

“Me and you.”

It’s that same joke again. Yet right now, at this moment, it’s feeling less and less like one. It feels real. The lingering feeling of Kaveh’s lips on his cheek, the way that Kaveh gazes at him with so much adoration in his eyes, the heart beating erratically in Alhaitham’s chest–none of this could be a product of imagination.

Alhaitham can’t bring himself to say anything anymore. He knows many languages, yet right now, he can’t figure out how to use a single one.

Then, Kaveh swings his arms around Alhaitham’s neck, pulling him down onto the bed. Kaveh pulls Alhaitham close to his body, latching on and cuddling him warmly.

“Good night, Haitham,” Kaveh whispers before shutting his eyes and knocking out.

Alhaitham knows the most sensible response is to say “good night” back.

But instead, what ends up coming out of his mouth is a foolish, yet all too real realization.

“I think I’m in love with you.”

Kaveh yawns, his head pounding as he walks into the kitchen. He finds Alhaitham, staring bug-eyed at him. He’s pouring a cup of water and yet again, he’s distracted and about to fill it past the rim. Kaveh smiles and takes his wrist, stopping him.

And for some very odd reason, Alhaitham’s ears are red. The man hurries to put his earpieces on, though Kaveh’s already noticed.

“Hey, Alhaitham. Did I say anything weird last night?” Kaveh sheepishly scratches at the back of his neck, his memory fuzzy. All he can remember is the familiar warmth that encompassed him the whole night.

“No,” Alhaitham replies. Yes, he did tell himself that he would talk to Kaveh about it the next day. But right now, he’s not sure if he can even speak more than a single coherent sentence before tripping over his words and letting his mind stray back to when Kaveh kissed him on the cheek.

“Really?” Kaveh eyes him weirdly.

Alhaitham nods, half-heartedly.

“Just a knock knock joke.”

v.

Kaveh is aware that Alhaitham does everything for a reason. He knows that very well, from the amount of times Alhaitham’s told him so in an argument.

He’s also aware that Alhaitham does do certain things out of the ordinary. But, as he mentioned before, it’s always for a purpose.

And so that leaves Kaveh to wonder: is Alhaitham being weird around him for a reason as well?

It’s started recently, probably a day or two after Kaveh had gotten embarrassingly drunk and had to be dragged home. Alhaitham’s become… jumpy, all of a sudden. When Kaveh’s hand brushes against his when passing a pen, the man will jump and hurriedly look away. Sometimes, if Kaveh stares a little too long at the man’s face, he will jump again.

Another thing is that Alhaitham’s started to look at Kaveh more. And it’s not just a look. It’s more of a deep, prolonged gaze that makes Kaveh feel nervous and try to look busy. There’s always this soft look in the man’s eyes as he leans forward on the table to stare straight at Kaveh’s face. His eyes will sparkle curiously and run over his every feature, often lingering on his lips.

None of these things, Alhaitham’s ever done before. Or, if he did, Kaveh never noticed.

It’s a serene, lovely evening. Earlier in the day, Kaveh finished up his deadlines and got them approved by his clients. He even had the chance to work on a project early. Now that’s a true feat. He sighs. Today would be a lovely day to have a nice glass of wine. But alas, he’s too distracted by his new addition to their shared home, peering at it sitting on a nearby table with an excited smile.

“...a record player?”

Alhaitham walks in, staring at it with a raised eyebrow.

Kaveh turns around and he nods proudly. “What do you think?” He pauses before turning back to face the record player. “Actually, I won’t ask that.”

“And why not?” Alhaitham approaches him, peering over his shoulder to observe the various details.

“Because you’re just going to complain–” Kaveh whips around, only to find himself coming face-to-face with Alhaitham. Since when did he get so close? He inhales and backs away. And yet again, Alhaitham only stares at him with that soft, soft gaze.

“Well, no,” Alhaitham honestly replies. “This one is significantly better than that Aranara figure you brought home last week.”

Kaveh scowls. That poor thing will never enjoy its stay here, not with Alhaitham glaring at it everytime he walks into the room. “What do you mean?” He shoves Alhaitham away purely out of annoyance–and certainly not to create some distance between them before he starts to grow nervous again. “That one’s cute!”

Alhaitham shakes his head. “Outside in a garden, sure. But in our study?”

Kaveh’s eyes widen and his mouth closes. Since when did he start using the word “our” for the study? The same study that Alhaitham always used to claim with the word “my” or a simple “the”?

“…Kaveh?”

Alhaitham must have noticed the way Kaveh’s staring at him as if he’s just seen a ghost. There’s a small, amused smile on his lips.

“Nothing,” Kaveh chokes out. “Just– surprised you like the record player, that’s all. And I still think the figure’s cute! You can’t change my mind.” Then, he reaches for Alhaitham’s wrist, pulling him to his side. “But enough about that. Look.” He turns the dial and they both watch as it begins to play music.

It’s a slow and beautiful song. Actually, this vinyl came with the player as a sort of, thank you gift for purchasing. Kaveh didn’t listen to it yet. He didn’t think it would be so… romantic. His mouth goes dry as he turns to look at Alhaitham, who also stares back at him with surprise.

“Uh…” Kaveh laughs awkwardly. “Kind of romantic, don’t you think?”

Alhaitham nods slowly. “I like it.”

“You do?” Kaveh brightens. “Then, may I propose an idea?”

The younger’s lips pull into a grimace. “I don’t always enjoy your idea proposals.”

“Come on,” Kaveh laughs. “This one won’t hurt.” His hands find Alhaitham’s shoulders, pushing him slightly. He backs him up all the way until they’re standing in the very middle of the kitchen. Alhaitham startles at the way Kaveh so easily initiates physical touch with him. It seems that he really is in a good mood tonight.

“What is it?” Alhaitham asks with confusion.

Kaveh shakes his head, smiling shyly. Just before, he had a surge of boldness. But now, standing before Alhaitham who gazes at him with questioning eyes, Kaveh can’t explain right now. Instead, he slowly, hesitantly, brings one hand to Alhaitham’s, intertwining their fingers and holding their connected hands up. Then, he guides Alhaitham’s arm around his waist before settling his own arm around his shoulder.

Alhaitham stares, but something dawns on his face as he comes to realize what Kaveh’s trying to do. Still, he waits for him to speak first.

Kaveh breathes out shakily.

“Can we dance?”

Alhaitham holds onto Kaveh’s hand just a bit tighter. He hums softly before pulling Kaveh closer. Then, they begin to sway back and forth.

“Let’s dance,” he finally says.

Kaveh lets out a bright and relieved laugh. “We already are, aren’t we?”

“Then, let’s continue,” Alhaitham whispers. Kaveh smiles softly. He’s surprised to see Alhaitham smile back.

The two of them fall into a peaceful silence. They dance in the middle of the kitchen, swaying slowly to the music. Kaveh’s never felt so relieved before, watching the way Alhaitham gazes at him. There’s no sign of resentment in his eyes, which Kaveh always believed to be there.

But, ever since they began talking, communicating better, and… well, sleeping together, Kaveh’s come to realize that Alhaitham has always welcomed him into his home. He just never showed it properly.

But now, he’s started to do so. He does so in the moment–like how his warm hand encompasses Kaveh’s and how there’s a small smile on his lips as they sway back and forth to the melody of the music. He does so subtly–like how he cooks Kaveh’s favorite food when he’s particularly frustrated or how he watches Kaveh from across the room, ready to catch him if he feels like fainting from exhaustion.

“Alhaitham, I…” Kaveh breaks the silence. “I want to properly thank you.”

They continue to sway, though they slow down slightly.

“For what?”

“For bringing me home.” Kaveh misses the way Alhaitham’s eyes flicker with hope at the very last word. “And it’s not just for that one time. But the many times after that. You always bring me back, even when you’re mad at me. And after, you– you keep me here by listening and watching out for me.”

Alhaitham holds Kaveh’s waist tighter.

“I see no point of watching you walk away from me, Kaveh. You are what makes this house a home.”

Kaveh’s breath hitches and he looks up into Alhaitham’s eyes, searching them. Even when peering closer, it’s clear that Alhaitham isn’t lying. He isn’t the type to lie.

“I’ll always bring you back to me,” Alhaitham says.

“Alhaitham…” Kaveh blinks. He’s unsure of what to do anymore, even beginning to trip over his feet. But even then, Alhaitham steadies him.

“I believe that I need you here, Kaveh,” the younger speaks quietly. “The past few weeks, you’ve taken care of me like no other. You held me on my grandmother’s birthday and after a dream that wasn’t even real.”

“Oh,” Kaveh breathes.

“I should be the one thanking you.”

Kaveh grins, pleasantly surprised at Alhaitham and his sudden words. He’s just voiced out all of his appreciation, which only really happens once in a blue moon.

“Don’t make this a competition now,” he teases. “Like I said. You’re still my junior. Of course I’ll take care of you, even if you’re insufferable.” Alhaitham laughs softly. Kaveh stares, absolutely entranced. Not once have they let go of each other. Not once have they strayed from each other’s presence.

In fact, Alhaitham pulls Kaveh even closer–so close that their chests press together. The slow music from the record player continues to play as they focus solely on each other, sharing soft gazes and shy smiles while they sway back and forth. Alhaitham’s touch on his waist and his palm against Kaveh’s burns in a pleasant, addictive way.

Has Alhaitham always looked at him like this? Has he always touched him so gently? Or was this a result of a certain night that Kaveh still struggles to remember?

Maybe, Kaveh takes in a deep breath, trying not to get distracted by the way Alhaitham’s eyes sparkle, I should just ask.

“Hey, Alhaitham.” Kaveh interrupts the comfortable silence.

“Hm?” Alhaitham’s lips are still pulled up into a soft, mesmerizing smile.

“Did I… really not say anything weird that night?” Kaveh’s heart does a nervous flip. “I don’t know if I’m going crazy, but you’ve been acting odd ever since then.”

Alhaitham hesitates for a moment before sighing with defeat. “...you did.”

Kaveh’s eyes are big with panic. “What? What did I say?” He winces. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“You were drunk,” Alhaitham explains. “I didn’t know if you meant what you said. I didn’t know if you would regret it.” His smile falls slightly. “I’d rather you tell me again another time. When you’re sober.”

Kaveh scoffs, feeling like crawling into a hole.

“Well, if you would maybe, I don’t know, tell me what I said exactly?” He frowns. “That would be helpful for a start.”

Alhaitham’s eyes glint with mischeviousness. He leans in so that he’s level with Kaveh’s ear. There, he whispers, “are you sure you don’t know?”

Kaveh shivers. “I really don’t remember.”

Alhaitham leans back. He tilts his head expectantly, tightening his hold on Kaveh’s hand, continuing to guide them through their slow dance.

“Take a guess.”

Kaveh thinks. He really does, the gears turning in his head.

What could he possibly say that would make Alhaitham act weird and almost… shy around him? What did he say that would make Alhaitham smile more than usual, make him stare at Kaveh like he’s the sole light of his life? What did he say that night that would make Alhaitham–

Oh.

“No,” Kaveh mumbles, stumbling backwards. Alhaitham catches him, bringing him back, just like he said he always would. “There’s no way,” he laughs shakily. “Did I… did I actually tell you that– that I–”

Alhaitham raises an eyebrow in a teasing manner.

“Go on.”

“That I… love you?”

Alhaitham doesn’t confirm it with a simple “yes.” Instead he simply, frustratingly says, “you really should stop drinking.”

“I should,” Kaveh groans, leaning his head down with embarrassment, resting his forehead on Alhaitham’s shoulder. “I’m sorry.”

“But my question is this, Kaveh.” Alhaitham lets go of his hand. Now, two warm, large hands hold onto Kaveh’s waist. “Was it real?”

Kaveh winces again, shutting his eyes tightly. He buries his face in Alhaitham’s shoulder.

“Fuck,” he mutters.

“That doesn’t answer my question.”

Kaveh’s head shoots up. He faces Alhaitham, looks him right in the eye, cheeks flushed just like they were that very night. Though this time, he didn’t have a single ounce of alcohol.

“Fuck,” he says again.

Alhaitham’s face drops. “So you did regret it.”

“No!” Kaveh blurts. “I meant fuck as in how could I confess to you when I was drunk?”

Alhaitham merely blinks in confusion. “What?”

“Look, I–” Kaveh’s free hand forms a fist and punches Alhaitham’s shoulder weakly. “I’m sorry.”

“A punch is a great sorry,” Alhaitham dryly responds.

Kaveh shakes his head. “I planned to tell you properly, Alhaitham. Like, maybe with a homemade dinner, or maybe on one of our walks. Just–” he groans, frustrated with himself. “Not when I’m drunk! I can’t even remember it.”

That’s when it starts to dawn on Alhaitham. His eyes widen and they glow with a newfound hope, his lips parted.

“So you meant it? It was real?”

“That wasn’t the point but yes,” Kaveh laughs, his voice tremoring with nervousness. “It was real. Everything I said, which I don’t even remember, was real.” With shaking hands, he cups Alhaitham’s face and brings him closer so that he can press his lips to his cheek. Alhaitham spirals, sputtering out odd noises. He pulls away slowly, staring up into Alhaitham’s eyes with a hesitant, but adoring gaze. “I love you. Was it not obvious before?”

Alhaitham shrugs weakly. “I had my suspicions.”

“You do know that there’s no one else I’d let sleep in my bed and cuddle me except you, right? Well, maybe Collei’s cat as an exception…”

“You love me?”

Kaveh’s smiling. He’s smiling big now, his chest light. At least he finally got it out.

“Yes, yes– I love you, Alhaitham.”

Alhaitham bites back a smile. His hold on Kaveh’s waist is gentle but so… firm at the same time. It’s as if to tell him that he doesn’t plan to let go anytime soon.

“So, when did you plan to properly confess to me then?”

“Uh…” Kaveh coughs into his fist, glancing away. “Next year? Actually, maybe in two years…”

Alhaitham lets out a loud laugh–probably the loudest Kaveh’s ever heard. He’s happy, it’s so incredibly clear that he’s happy.

“Then, I’m glad you told me that night.”

Kaveh huffs, rolling his eyes. “But I can’t even remember it. And you doubted me back then. How is that better?”

“Because I…” Alhaitham tugs Kaveh, pulling him into a hug, right in the very middle of the kitchen. He leans back to look at his face with an affectionate smile. “I can’t wait any longer. I can’t wait two years, one year, or even another day for you, Kaveh. At least I know now. I want you now.”

“Impatient,” Kaveh mutters though still wearing a smile. Then, he brings a hand up to cup Alhaitham’s jaw, his eyes soft. “Then you can have me. Now and always.”

Alhaitham suddenly leans in. And it’s his turn now to kiss Kaveh’s cheek. Kaveh lets out a surprised yelp followed by a shy laugh.

“I love you too,” Alhaitham whispers. “I’ve only come to realize that night. But I think I’ve loved you for much longer than that.”

“That’s… that’s good to hear,” Kaveh casually responds though his heart feels like it’s going to explode.

Alhaitham can only gaze ever so fondly, a stupid smile on his face. “So,” he mutters, now with a teasing tone. “What do we do now?”

Kaveh shrugs, only returning that same stupid smile. “I don’t know, to be honest. I guess we could…”

He’s about to say something about planning out their first, proper date. But instead, Alhaitham interrupts him eagerly.

“Kiss? Can we kiss?”

“Oh,” Kaveh breathes in surprise. Right, they can do that too. Actually, scratch that. He’d much rather do that first instead. “Yes, please. Please kiss me.”

Alhaitham leans in. But he stops, just before Kaveh’s lips, waiting, making the older whine.

“Is this okay?” Alhaitham asks again, breath fanning warmly against Kaveh’s bottom lip. He tilts his head further but still, he doesn’t kiss him.

“No.”

Alhaitham’s eyes sadden and he pulls away slightly. “Why?”

“Because you’re not even kissing me yet!” Kaveh’s quick to complain. “You’re teasing me, aren’t you?”

“I’m not,” Alhaitham honestly replies, giving Kaveh an innocent look. “I’m just waiting for you.”

“Oh.” Kaveh blinks in surprise. He always thought that it would be Alhaitham who wants to take. Yet another discovery. It’s Alhaitham who gives. “Then…” He grins before grabbing Alhaitham by the collar, pulling him in eagerly.

Alhaitham lets out a soft hum, allowing Kaveh to find the most comfortable position. Once Kaveh properly tilts his head and slots their lips together just how he wants, that’s when Alhaitham finally tightens his hold on Kaveh’s body, deepening the kiss. He follows Kaveh carefully, tilting his head where Kaveh likes, pulling away for a breath when he wants, biting the bottom lip in the spot where Kaveh will let out a breathy sound.

Anything Kaveh wants, he’ll give.

Kaveh doesn’t seem to notice Alhaitham’s careful actions. He’s sloppy, full of need, taking and taking just as he’s always wanted. Alhaitham smiles against his lips, admiring the fact that Kaveh, who so often feels the need to conform to so many expectations, finally has his chance to receive whatever he desires. That, in which, Alhaitham will always offer.

They kiss and they kiss until Alhaitham feels dizzy from overwhelming love. Kaveh’s hands tangle into his hair, tugging him deeper, parting his lips so that he can slip his tongue in. Alhaitham can’t control the groan that escapes him, pliantly allowing Kaveh to kiss him hungrily. Alhaitham’s hands wander too, a little less experienced, but curious nonetheless, revelling in the way Kaveh melts under his touch.

Breathlessly, they pull away. Contrary to the heated kiss from before, the two of them start to feel shy. They can’t even look each other in the eye.

“I got carried away,” Kaveh laughs, embarrassed.

It’s fine, Alhaitham wants to say. Take whatever you want.

“It’s late,” the older continues. “...we should sleep.” He looks down to where Alhaitham had taken hold of his hand. He swings their hands back and forth, staring at their intertwined fingers with a smile he can’t seen to control.

“Okay.” Alhaitham gives Kaveh an endeared look. “I don’t have work tomorrow. Maybe we can go on a date?”

Kaveh has to restrain himself from collapsing to the floor out of sheer light-headedness, his heart beating uncontrollably fast. All of this feels like a dream. But it’s real. It’s so real.

“Yes,” Kaveh’s voice strains. “That’s– that’s a good idea.” He steps away, reluctantly, wanting nothing more than to pull Alhaitham in again. Still, he doesn’t want to overwhelm him. “Good night, Alhaitham. See you tomorrow.”

“Good night.” Alhaitham smiles, his hands fidgeting at his sides as he watches Kaveh walk away.

But just then, Kaveh turns around. He stares for a moment, his mouth slightly open as if to contemplate what he’s about to say. With a flush on his cheeks, the words come out rushed and nervous.

“It’s been a while since you slept with me in my bed.”

Alhaitham stares, surprised. “Oh? Did something happen?”

Right. Kaveh curses himself. He forgot that the last few times that they’ve slept together was for a definite reason. Right now, there is no reason. Kaveh just wants… Alhaitham.

“No, nothing.” Kaveh blushes. “I just–” he sighs. “Nevermind. Good night. I love you.” he rushes that very last sentence before turning back around and making a run for his bedroom.

Alhaitham waits, watching quietly as Kaveh disappears while mumbling to himself frantically, “that was so stupid,” over and over again. Once he hears the door close, Alhaitham collapses over the counter, setting both his hands on the edge of it to steady himself. Then, he finds his chest, where his heart is beating so fast, he can’t even breathe. This is real, he realizes. It’s all real and he doesn’t know what to do with himself. All he can manage to do is smile like a foolish man in love, which, undoubtedly, he certainly is.

He had just slow danced with Kaveh, held him, even kissed him. Letting out a shaky exhale, he straightens up, shuts off the record player, and walks all the way until he reaches Kaveh’s room.

He opens the door and smiles softly at the way Kaveh’s already in bed, facing away from the door. Alhaitham’s heart still beats frantically as he climbs into bed with him, almost immediately pulling Kaveh into his arms.

“Haitham?” Kaveh jumps slightly. “Why are you here?” He shifts around so that he’s facing him. “Did something actually happen?”

Alhaitham shakes his head.

“Do I need a reason to be here?”

Kaveh gapes. “That’s rich coming from you! You always tell everyone that you need a reason to do something.”

“I don’t need one when it’s with you.”

“Ah.” A pretty blush begins to appear on Kaveh’s face.

Alhaitham smiles, leaning in and pulling Kaveh into a soft, gentle kiss. “Maybe, my reason is you. You make me do things that I never would.”

“Is that a bad thing?”

“Far from it. Keep doing it.”

Kaveh smiles, searching Alhaitham’s eyes with so much love. Then, he pulls Alhaitham into a kiss. It’s dark and hard to see, but they use their hands as guidance, wandering over each other hungrily.

“You’ve never done this before?”

“Done what?”

“Kiss like this.”

“Mmph,” Alhaitham’s words are muffled by Kaveh’s own lips. The older laughs, continuing to kiss the man until the desire gets the best of him and he climbs on top of Alhaitham, straddling his hips.

“Never?” Kaveh grins.

Alhaitham stares up at him with heavy eyes and swollen lips. “Never.”

“Hm,” Kaveh giggles. “But you’re kissing like this right now.”

“Because it’s you.”

Kaveh scrunches his nose before leaning down once more, cupping Alhaitham’s face to kiss him over and over. Then, he kisses his cheeks, his nose, and trails more all the way down to his jaw, lingering at a sensitive spot that makes Alhaitham gasp quietly.

“I want you,” Alhaitham rasps, pulling Kaveh closer against him.

“You have me,” Kaveh laughs. Soon enough, they both start laughing in between kisses, smiling warmly. Slowly, Kaveh’s fervent movements start to slow down. “Alhaitham,” he calls, pulling away with heavy breaths.

“Hm?”

Kaveh collapses down, settling himself next to Alhaitham on the bed. “I’m tired.”

Alhaitham smiles. “Then sleep. I’ll be here.” Kaveh grins, allowing himself to be pulled into the man’s arms again. His now lover’s arms.

“Look who’s back?” Kaveh sings, entering the room with a familiar cat in his arms. Alhaitham looks up and eyes her warily. She eyes him back, ears twitching slightly.

Kaveh sits down beside Alhaiham. “Collei’s busy studying, so she asked us to take care of her again.”

“Still no name?”

“Still no name.” Kaveh nods. He peeks at the cat, who glares at Alhaitham with narrowed eyes. “What about Haithoomi?”

“No,” Alhaitham’s quick to blurt out.

Kaveh’s lips pull into a sly grin. “Why not? Because I call you that already?”

Alhaitham’s about to agree or retort (who knows?) because Kaveh suddenly leans up and presses a soft kiss to his lips. Alhaitham’s book drops in his lap in favor of melting into it.

Meanwhile, the cat watches the whole scene happen before her eyes. After they pull away, with Kaveh smiling shyly and Alhaitham’s gaze still fixated on his lips, the cat suddenly jumps out of Kaveh’s arms and into Alhaitham’s lap, knocking the book over before curling up close.

Kaveh stares silently.

“Ah,” he breathes. “She only likes you when I like you.”

“Hm?” Alhaitham’s hands are in midair, awkwardly not knowing what to do. Finally, one hand starts patting her head, which she thoroughly enjoys.

“Ready?” Kaveh asks.

“Ready for wha–”

Kaveh lunges forward, attacking Alhaitham into a tight hug. He nuzzles into his neck, making Alhaitham inhale sharply and his cheeks warm. Slowly, the two of them fall back onto the bed, holding onto each other tightly.

As a result, the cat meows and climbs on top of them, perching herself on Kaveh’s upper back, purring softly. Alhaitham chokes, feeling the air get knocked out of him. He now has his lover, and a fluffy cat, laying on top of him.

“Kaveh,” he strangles out.

Kavhe pulls back to peek at Alhaitham’s face. He laughs, brushing through his hair with a fond expression.

“Sorry,” he says before rolling off Alhaitham’s body. There, he chooses to cuddle up to his side. And just like before, the cat suddenly appears and snuggles up in between them. Kaveh grins and presses a light kiss to the top of her head.

“Kaveh.”

Kaveh doesn’t hear him, too focused on smooching the cat in their arms. Soon enough, the cat grows annoyed and gets up, stalking away and out of the room. He sighs. “You know, maybe we should get a cat of our own. Wouldn’t it be nice? Alhaitham…?” He looks up, only to come face-to-face with a broken expression, lips pulled into a frown (certainly not a pout), eyes saddened.

“Kaveh.”

“Haitham?” Kaveh’s eyes widen. “Something wrong?”

Alhaitham blinks and he looks away. “No.”

“...are you sure?”

“Three.”

Kaveh’s eyes narrow. “What?”

“There are three kisses that you now owe me.”

“Oh.” It dawns on Kaveh just then. “Oh.” It seems that Alhaitham’s counted the amount of kisses that Kaveh’s given to the cat. And now he has to give the same amount to Alhaitham. Kaveh bursts out laughing just then, tears springing to his eyes. “Don’t tell me you’re jealous over a cat?”

Alhaitham only stares, completely serious.

“Kaveh,” he whispers, needingly.

“Okay, okay,” Kaveh laughs. He tugs him upwards. Now, the two of them face each other, sitting up on the bed.

Gently, he cups Alhaitham’s jaw, tilting his head before pressing his lips to his. “One.”

Then, he throws his arms over his shoulders, leaning into his body. Alhaitham’s cheeks are so… flushed. He kisses him again, longer this time. “Two,” he mutters.

He leans all the way forward, collapsing into Alhaitham’s body. Alhaitham’s arms wrap around him naturally. Again, he kisses him, biting his lip in the process. “Three,” Kaveh whispers with a lazy smile and hooded eyes.

Just as Kaveh breaks apart, Alhaitham pulls him back in.

“Four,” he mumbles against Kaveh’s lips. Kaveh’s eyes shoot open with surprise. Though, it doesn’t take long for them to flutter shut again.

Maybe… Alhaitham can be a little irrational. He’s only human after all. A human who's awfully in love.