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From the Shadows, With Love

Summary:

A series of secret notes start appearing for Kaveh, each one sparking warmth and curiosity on him. Unsure who’s behind them, he finds himself drawn into the quiet thrill of a secret admirer staying just out of sight, leaving traces of affection he didn’t know he’d been longing for. With each new note, the mystery deepens.

He just doesn't know that the answer to this mystery is closer than he thinks.

Notes:

Helloo, finally I took some courage to post this one aksjkasj I was going to keep it on my drafts but suddenly I couldn't stop thinking about it and finished!

Also just in time for the sabzeruz festival and new hkvh content!! So it's a celebration.

Enjoy ^^

(See the end of the work for more notes.)

Work Text:

 

Kaveh slammed the apartment door behind him, dropping his keys with a loud clatter onto the kitchen counter. This was the last time he would let something like that get to him. He was home; he needed to breathe and forget this day happened. His stress levels were already through the roof—right now, he just needed to relax.

“Rough day?” came the inevitable, calm voice from the living room.

Right. He forgot about that, his current living situation, and his ever-annoying roommate, Alhaitham. He should’ve known better than to think he’d be greeted with silence.

‘Relax. He’s only asking a question, Kaveh,’ he thought, sighing.

Kaveh shot a glare toward the couch, where Alhaitham was lounging with a book in hand, looking entirely too comfortable for Kaveh’s liking. “You could say that,” he grumbled, pulling off his jacket. “And of course, you just had to comment.”

Alhaitham didn’t even look up from his book.  “It was a question, not a comment. There’s a difference. Don’t be so defensive.”

“Defensive?” Kaveh scoffed, grabbing a glass of water as if it would somehow wash away his frustration. “I’m not defensive. I’m just—ugh, you wouldn’t get it.”

“I get plenty of things,” Alhaitham replied in that maddeningly indifferent tone of his.

Kaveh exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair as he leaned on their counter table. He looked at Alhaitham, who had resumed his reading, clearly uninterested in probing further. But Kaveh couldn’t help himself—he needed to vent.

“It’s just…” he started, his voice strained. “One of my coworkers. He always has something to say during my presentations. No matter how many times I revise, or how much thought I put into it, there’s always a comment. Today, he had the audacity to ask if my design had any real innovation or if I was just stuck in some outdated methods. And of course, they all agreed with him and made me change half the project again . All the effort for nothing.”

Alhaitham glanced up from his book, one eyebrow slightly raised. “Let me guess, it’s Nasir?”

Kaveh’s eyes widened. “How did you—”

“You’ve mentioned him before. Loudly. Often.”

“Right,” Kaveh sighed, rubbing his temples. “It’s just exhausting, you know? I stayed up late working on that presentation, and now it’s back to square one. He acts like I don’t know what I’m doing, like every suggestion I make is wrong. It’s like his personal mission to tear down everything I suggest.”

Alhaitham closed his book, sitting up straighter as if considering his next words carefully. “You let people like him get under your skin too easily. If you know your work is good, you will do a good job, and if he can’t see that, it’s his problem. Not yours.”

“Ugh. Don’t do that” 

“What? I’m doing nothing.” Alhaitham said, picking his book back up.

“Don’t say that like you mean it! It’s almost like you care. It doesn’t suit you.” Kaveh let out a humorless laugh. “You don’t need to feel sorry for me.”

“I’m not.” Alhaitham said without looking from his book. 

Kaveh stared at him for a second, at a loss for words. Typical Alhaitham—he always managed to sound supportive while simultaneously being the least supportive person alive. Kaveh turned away, muttering under his breath. “Right. What’s the point of being angry now, anyway? I need a shower and think of any ideas before I toss myself out of the window.”

“Pointless. You could still survive the fall,” Alhaitham called after him dryly, as Kaveh trudged toward his room.

“Gee, thanks for the encouragement,” Kaveh grumbled as he closed the door behind him.

 


 

The next morning, Kaveh shuffled into his office, his eyes burning from a lack of sleep. The past night's restless tossing and turning had left him feeling as if he’d never fully shut his eyes. His body was in autopilot, barely functioning as he made his way to his desk, a steaming cup of coffee cradled in his hand like a lifeline.

It wasn’t the work itself that kept him up at night, robbing him of any rest—it was Nasir’s scathing critique, like a stuck record playing over and over in his mind: Does it even have any innovation? Efficiency? The words gnawed at him, taking root and refusing to let go, each repetition eroding a bit more of his confidence.

With a long, groggy sigh, Kaveh dropped into his chair and set his coffee down a little too forcefully, some of it sloshing over the rim. He didn’t care. Caffeine was the only thing keeping him upright right now.

His office was filled with the usual morning hustle—phones ringing, keyboards clacking, and colleagues engaged in quiet conversations over early meetings or the latest drama. It was background noise at this point, like the hum of an engine, but today it grated on his nerves more than usual.

Taking a slow sip of his coffee, he opened his laptop and stared at the half-finished design on the screen, it was opened where he had left at yesterday's meeting. The screen blurred slightly, and he blinked hard to focus. His fingers itched to make the changes, but his brain felt like mush. He reached for his notebook. Yesterday night he already wrote down some of the things he could use for changing in the blueprint. It was his routine: get the chaos out of his head and onto paper, and then sort it out the best way to follow.

He flipped it open, ready to jot down whatever thoughts came to mind, but something unfamiliar caught his eye.

A small, carefully folded piece of paper.

Frowning, he picked it up, curious. Did I put this here? He flipped it open, expecting a scribbled reminder or a list he’d forgotten about. Instead, he found a single, carefully written sentence in neat, almost elegant handwriting:

"Don’t let them make you doubt yourself. Your work speaks for itself."

The message was short, simple—but for some reason, it made him pause. He read the message once, twice, then again, the words sinking in. Who…?

His eyes narrowed in thought, and he flipped the paper over, expecting to find some clue as to who had written it. But there was no signature, no indication of its origin. Just that one simple sentence.

His immediate thought was that one of his coworkers had slipped it in as a joke. He scanned the handwriting, trying to think of anyone in the office, but nothing seemed to click. Nasir, with his sharp tongue and endless critiques, would never send something like this, and his other colleagues… they wouldn’t care enough to leave a note, at least he never imagined this possibility.

He felt a strange feeling—a mix of confusion, curiosity, and something warmer. The message, while simple, hit harder than Kaveh had expected. It was almost like someone had seen through the mess of his life, his frustrations, and offered exactly what he needed to hear.

‘Thank you… Whoever you are’ he thought with a small smile on his lips.

As his thoughts continued to spiral, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of comfort wash over him. Someone—whoever it was—believed in him. And after a night spent doubting every inch of his work, that belief was kind of what he needed right now.

He slipped the note back into the notebook, tucking it away safely between the pages, as if keeping a small treasure. A slight smile still tugged at the corner of his lips—just a flicker, but it was more than he’d managed all morning.

Kaveh glanced at his coffee, realizing it had gone lukewarm in his hands. He took another sip, the bitterness biting at his tongue, but he didn’t mind it as much now. Maybe today wasn’t going to be as terrible as he’d thought.

He flipped to a clean page in his notebook, his pen ready to jot down some new ideas. The project still needed to be fixed, and they weren’t going to make themselves done. Whoever had left that note—they were right. His work did speak for itself. And now, with that small encouragement tucked in the back of his mind, the weight on his shoulders felt a little lighter.

Kaveh had barely begun sorting out his last night's ideas when he heard the familiar sound of footsteps approaching. He didn’t have to look up to know who it was. The air always seemed to change whenever Nasir was nearby (or was just Kaveh’s sense that could feel the assholes in the room, it worked with Alhaitham most of the time).

“Morning, Kaveh,” Nasir’s voice came smoothly, almost too casually. “I see you are still working on that presentation.”

Kaveh clenched his jaw before turning to face his coworker, who was leaning slightly over his desk, eyes flicking over the sketches and notes sprawled across the table. Nasir had that look on his face—the one that always seemed caught between smugness and forced politeness, as if he enjoyed watching Kaveh struggle but had to play it off.

“Yeah,” Kaveh replied, his tone flat. “After yesterday, I had to make some changes.”

Nasir hummed, folding his arms as he leaned in a bit closer, peering at his work. “Ah, the revisions, right? Sorry about that. Didn’t mean to give you more work with my comments yesterday.” He said the words like a formality, his smile tight and far from genuine.

Kaveh glanced at him, eyebrow twitching. ‘ Right, because you never mean it ,’ he thought bitterly. He’d seen this pattern before—Nasir playing the part of the concerned colleague while simultaneously being the reason Kaveh’s stress levels were through the roof. He didn’t buy his apology for a second.

Still, Kaveh forced his best humorless smile. “It’s fine,” he lied, turning his attention back to his screen. “I’ll get it done.”

Nasir nodded, his gaze lingering on Kaveh’s work once more, as if inspecting it with that same critical eye that made Kaveh’s skin crawl. “Good, good,” Nasir replied, his tone light but carrying the same subtle superiority it always did. “Knowing you, I’m sure you’ll come up with something… visionary this time.”

The word visionary landed like a mockery, and Kaveh clenched his fist under the table. His mind buzzed with comebacks, but he knew they wouldn’t help. Instead, he turned his attention back to his screen, hoping Nasir would take the hint.

But, naturally, Nasir stayed put.

“Anyway,” Nasir continued, as though sensing Kaveh’s irritation but choosing to ignore it, “I’m sure it’ll turn out fine. Let me know if you need more feedback later.”

And with that, he finally walked away, leaving Kaveh feeling the same mix of anger and exhaustion that had gnawed at him since the day before. He watched as Nasir strolled off, likely to offer ‘helpful’ advice to someone else, and let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding.

More feedback,” Kaveh muttered to himself, rolling his eyes. He tapped his pen against the notebook, trying to shake off the frustration. ‘Sure, because what I really need is more of your shitty opinion.’

He glanced briefly at the spot in his notebook where the anonymous note was tucked away. His fingers almost itched to take it out and read it again, but he resisted.

With renewed focus, Kaveh turned back to his sketches, determined not to let Nasir’s words get under his skin again. He’d finish this project, and he’d make it better than anyone expected. He wasn’t about to let Nasir, or anyone else, undermine his confidence any longer.

 


 

It was the middle of the afternoon, and Kaveh felt like his head was going to explode. He needed a quick break—maybe some aspirin from the break room would help. Just then, his cell phone lit up, catching his attention.

He found three texts from Tighnari, each one an hour apart.

 

Tighnari:

Hey, don’t forget we’re meeting at 7 today

Tighnari:

You aren’t even reading the messages

Tighnari:

You forgot right?

Kaveh:

OH MY GOD

Nah, ofc I didn’t forget that I said I would help my best friend with his six-year anniversary today

Tighnari:

I’m letting this pass bc you said I’m your best friend

Kaveh:

Why wouldn't you be???

I'm just kinda… swamped right now. I’ve found myself in a project nightmare.

Tighnari:

When don’t you?

Project or not, you promised you’d help me out. Besides, you need a break. You sound stressed already

Didn’t you say you already had it finished tho?

Kaveh:

Yeah, I know… They’re just being “helpful” and making me redo everything

Tighnari:

I swear… I honestly don’t know how you haven’t snapped yet

Anyway, all the more reason to meet up. You can vent while we grab something to drink

And I’m paying

Kaveh:

Istg Nari, you’re my angel

Tighnari:

I have a boyfriend.

Kaveh:

Yes and I’m helping you both today, dw

I’ll be there

And you’re still my angel, Cyno can step down

Tighnari:

Sure

Kaveh:

Don’t blame me if I start ranting about work

Tighnari:

Oh, I’m counting on it

See you at 7

 


 

By the time Kaveh walked into the bar later that evening, the weight of the day hung heavily on him. His mind was still buzzing with his work, and the sting of Nasir’s thinly veiled criticism. But when he spotted Tighnari already seated at a small table, a beer in hand, Kaveh felt a wave of relief wash over him.

Tighnari waved him over, a half-smile on his face as Kaveh sat down. "You look terrible," he remarked with his usual bluntness as Kaveh slumped into the chair across from him.

"Thanks," Kaveh muttered, rubbing his temples. “Between Nasir’s endless ‘feedback’ and lack of sleep, today’s been... rough.”

Tighnari raised his glass slightly. “Well, a cold beer should help. Congrats, you’ve earned it.”

Kaveh nodded gratefully as he ordered his own beer. “Yeah, I need something to drown the pain.” He let out a tired laugh, though his shoulders remained tense.

Tighnari watched him, concern flickering across his face. “You really need to stop letting this guy get to you. You said he’s a jerk, and not just with you. Why are you still so worked up about what he says?”

Kaveh exhaled sharply, staring at the table. “Because he keeps underestimating me,” he admitted. “I work my ass off, and then he comes along with some ‘helpful’ suggestion that makes me feel like I’ve wasted my time. I had to redo half the project—again.”

Tighnari sighed but didn’t press further. Kaveh’s beer arrived, and he took a long, much-needed sip, the cool liquid doing its part to soothe his worn nerves.

“Maybe I need a month off,” Kaveh joked, though there was an edge of seriousness in his voice.

“You do,” Tighnari replied, raising an eyebrow. “But something tells me you wouldn’t know what to do with yourself if you actually took a break.”

Kaveh chuckled softly, shaking his head. “You’re probably right.”

Tighnari chuckled softly “C’mon, I need to beat Cyno’s surprise this year. You said you already had some ideas I could use.”

“Oh right,” Kaveh said, reaching for his bag to grab his notebook. “I don’t know how you two are still playing this game after all these years. But if I’m not using these romantic ideas, at least I could help someone.”

“This is the only reason we are still together after all these years, Kaveh” Tighnari said, his expression determined.

“I thought you two loved each other,” Kaveh chuckled softly.

“That too.”

As they chatted, Kaveh absentmindedly opened his notebook, intending to hand Tighnari the list he had made with some surprise ideas for their anniversary. But as he flipped through the pages, a small slip of paper fluttered out, landing near his beer.

He blinked in surprise and smiled faintly as he recognized the note—the one he had found earlier that morning. He picked it up, smoothing the edges with his fingers, his mood lifting slightly as the encouraging words ran through his mind once more.

Tighnari noticed the shift in Kaveh’s expression, his sharp eyes catching the quick smile that crossed his face. “What’s that?” he asked, leaning in a little. “You seem... happier all of a sudden.”

Kaveh glanced at him, quickly folding the paper and slipping it into his pocket. “Oh, it’s nothing,” he said, a bit too quickly.

Tighnari narrowed his eyes. “Doesn’t look like nothing. You’re smiling like when you got that praise in college from your favorite teacher.”

Kaveh hesitated, feeling heat rise to his cheeks. He hadn’t realized he was smiling, but seeing the note again had settled something warm inside him. “It’s just… something someone left me,” he explained, trying to sound nonchalant.

“Someone left you? A note?” Tighnari repeated, his curiosity piqued. “At work?”

“I... guess so,” Kaveh replied, shrugging. “It’s just a bit of encouragement.”

Tighnari took a sip of his beer, his eyes never leaving Kaveh’s face. “Encouragement, huh? From who?”

“I don’t know,” Kaveh admitted, his fingers absentmindedly brushing the pocket where the paper was now tucked. “It just said something like, ‘Don’t doubt yourself.’”

Tighnari’s expression softened slightly, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Sounds like someone has an eye on you.”

Kaveh snorted, rolling his eyes. “It’s not like that. Probably just a colleague who saw me struggling and thought I could use a boost.”

Tighnari gave him a knowing look. “Either way, it worked. You’re smiling again.”

Kaveh couldn’t deny it. He took another sip of his beer, letting his mind wander back to those words. Whoever had written the note—whether a colleague or someone else—they had given him a moment of clarity amid the chaos of his day. And for that, he was grateful.

“I don’t know who it was,” Kaveh mused, leaning back in his chair. “Maybe I will never find out. That’s fine by me.” He shrugged, “It's not like it will happen again.’

Tighnari smirked, raising his glass in a silent toast. “It’s still a good thing. It’s a reminder for you to relax. There’s more to life than work, Kaveh.”

Kaveh nodded, finally letting the tension in his body ease as the beer and Tighnari’s company did their job. For once, he allowed himself to not think about the project, about Nasir, or about work at all.

At least for now.

 


 

Kaveh fumbled with the keys, the jingling sound almost too loud in the quiet of the hallway. 

“Shut up,” he muttered to his keys as the door swung open, just in time for Alhaitham to step out of the elevator, gym bag slung over his shoulder. He was still in his workout clothes, skin glistening faintly with sweat, and the unmistakable scent of exertion lingered around him.

“Heyyyy, it’s the walking encyclopedia! Welcome home,” Kaveh slurred, leaning against the doorframe as he held it open. His grin was wide and unguarded, a result of more than just a few beers.

Alhaitham raised an eyebrow but said nothing, his expression as calm as ever. “I see you’ve been drinking,” he remarked, walking toward the door and nudging Kaveh inside.

“Hm,” Kaveh muttered proudly, wobbling slightly but refusing to stumble. “Tighnari insisted. Said I needed to ‘de-stress,’ or I’d turn into a walking stress ball.” He attempted to mimic Tighnari’s stern voice.

Alhaitham set his bag down by the entrance, eyeing Kaveh’s state with mild amusement. “And clearly, you took that advice to heart.”

“I’m not discussing this with you,” Kaveh waved a dismissive hand and gave Alhaitham’s body a once-over. “Why do you claim you’re all about books when you’ve got all these muscles?” He teased, poking Alhaitham’s bicep before wobbling backward. “You’re practically... I don’t know, a muscle-bound genius!

Alhaitham looked down at his arm, then back at Kaveh, unimpressed. “You’re drunk.”

“And you’re avoiding the question,” Kaveh shot back, leaning closer with a playful squint. “Seriously, why do you go so late to the gym? It’s like you’re secretly trying to sneak around or something. Do you work out just to maintain that façade of yours?”

“I go when it’s less crowded,” Alhaitham answered coolly, walking past Kaveh toward the kitchen to grab a bottle of water. “And it helps clear my mind.”

Kaveh snorted, following him with unsteady steps. “Oh yeah, because you need to ‘clear your mind.’ Like you ever get stressed.” He leaned on the counter, watching as Alhaitham took a long drink from the bottle. “Meanwhile, I’m over here losing my mind over projects, revisions, and annoying coworkers. But you? Nah. You’re just... books and muscles.”

Alhaitham gave him a side-eye as he finished drinking, wiping his mouth. “You seem lively. I thought work was weighing on you, especially after yesterday’s meltdown.”

“Pffft,” Kaveh waved a hand, almost knocking over a bowl on the counter. “Nah, work wasn’t so bad today. I was with Tighnari at the bar, remember? He dragged me out, made me talk about stuff other than work. Honestly, it was really nice.” He grinned, a little too wide. “And here I am.”

Alhaitham leaned against the counter across from Kaveh, crossing his arms. “So, work’s not as bad as you thought?”

Kaveh shook his head, the movement a little too quick for his balance. “Nope. I mean, yes, Nasir’s still a pain. But today? I don’t know, it felt like it wasn’t worth getting so worked up about it. Tighnari helped me get out of my head for a bit, you know?” He paused, squinting at Alhaitham again. “Maybe I should take you out for drinks next time. See if you can loosen up.”

“I don’t think that’s necessary,” Alhaitham replied flatly, though there was a faint hint of amusement in his tone.

“You say that, but I think you could use it,” Kaveh teased, his voice softer now, the alcohol making his usual sharp edges blur. “You’re always so calm. It’s like... what’s the word? Unfair. You’re too calm.”

Alhaitham looked at him, eyes thoughtful. “Maybe you just need better coping mechanisms.”

“Or maybe I just need another drink,” Kaveh said, laughing before he caught himself. He blinked, then stood up straighter. “Okay, no more for tonight. I think I’m done. But really...” He looked at Alhaitham, the teasing fading slightly as something more genuine slipped through. “Thanks for... being around, I guess. Even if you’re a smug, know-it-all half the time.”

Alhaitham didn’t respond right away. He just looked at Kaveh for a moment, then pushed himself off the counter. “Get some sleep. You need it.”

“Bossy,” Kaveh muttered, but his smile was soft as he turned toward his room, stumbling a little but catching himself. “Goodnight, Haitham.”

“Goodnight, Kaveh,” Alhaitham replied, watching as his roommate disappeared down the hallway, the sound of a door clicking softly shut behind him.

 


 

Kaveh emerged from his bedroom, squinting as the bright sunlight from the kitchen window hit his face. He groaned softly, running a hand through his messy hair as he dragged his feet toward the living room. His head pounded slightly, the telltale sign of last night still lingering, leaving him feeling a bit groggy.

As he neared the kitchen, the familiar smell of fresh coffee filled the air, making his senses perk up despite the dull hangover. Alhaitham was already seated at the table, a mug of coffee in hand, one leg crossed over the other, reading a book as he sipped from the steaming mug, as if early Saturday mornings didn’t bother him one bit. Kaveh, on the other hand, felt like he was barely keeping himself upright.

"Morning," Kaveh mumbled, rubbing his eyes and letting out a yawn. He plopped into the chair across from Alhaitham, leaning his elbows on the table. "Is that a new coffee?"

"Yes, it is," Alhaitham replied, taking a sip from his own mug.

"You went and bought new coffee beans without me?" Kaveh asked, mock offense in his voice. "I’m wounded. That’s like—betrayal."

Alhaitham raised an eyebrow. "I was out early, and you were still sleeping off your hangover. Figured you’d appreciate not being dragged along."

Kaveh huffed but took another sip, savoring the rich taste. "Well, it’s good. So, I’ll let it slide this time."

"How magnanimous of you," Alhaitham said, picking up his toast.

Kaveh leaned back in his chair, watching Alhaitham for a moment. The quiet hum of the morning settled around them, creating a comfortable rhythm they’d developed over months of living together. He rarely made a big deal of these mornings, but there was a sense of routine in the way they coexisted without needing to fill every moment with chatter.

The kitchen felt cozy in the morning light. The chirping sound of the outside world, the clink of Kaveh’s coffee cup as he placed it on the table, the occasional rustle of Alhaitham turning a page—all these little sounds made the space feel lived-in. Kaveh appreciated the quiet after the week he’d had. As much as they bickered and teased, moments like these grounded him.

While chewing on a piece of toast, Kaveh suddenly remembered something. "Oh, did you know today’s Cyno and Tighnari’s anniversary?"

Alhaitham finally looked up from his book, his expression neutral but attentive. "I know. Cyno mentioned it yesterday."

"Really? I didn’t think Cyno would share that kind of stuff with you," Kaveh said, taking another bite and recalling how Tighnari had said Cyno always liked to keep surprises low-key.

Alhaitham’s eyes flickered with the faintest hint of amusement. "He needed advice on something. Apparently, his original idea wasn’t grand enough for Tighnari."

Kaveh leaned forward, eyes lighting up. "No way. I helped Tighnari with some ideas for the date. Gave him a few points, y’know? He wanted it to be special, and obviously, I’m the perfect person to help with that."

"Whatever your ideas are, he’s going to lose to Cyno’s," Alhaitham said with a straight face.

Kaveh’s eyes narrowed. "Wait, wait, wait. What do you know? What’s Cyno planning?"

Alhaitham remained unfazed. "Can’t say."

Kaveh groaned, leaning closer across the table as if proximity would get the secret out of him. "Come on, tell me! I gave Tighnari solid advice. At least let me know if it’s going to blow him away. I need to know if I’m still the date-planning champion here."

Alhaitham, naturally, remained an immovable wall, drinking his coffee. "You’ll find out soon enough. But I’m sure it will top any advice you gave."

Kaveh shot him a skeptical look. “Since when are you an expert in date planning? Last time I checked, your love life was practically fossilized.”

Alhaitham paused mid-sip, giving Kaveh a flat stare over the rim of his cup. “My expertise doesn’t require personal experience,” he said dryly, setting the cup down. “Unlike some, I can observe and learn without making a spectacle of my own dating disasters.”

Kaveh groaned dramatically, falling back in his chair and throwing his hands in the air. "Ugh! You’re impossible! What’s the point of telling me if you’re just going to keep it?"

Alhaitham smirked ever so slightly, shifting his gaze back to his book. "Patience."

Kaveh wasn’t about to let it go, though. "Fine, fine. You know what? Let’s make a bet. I bet you that Tighnari’s date is better. He’s thoughtful, and with my input? There’s no way Cyno’s winning this."

Alhaitham’s smirk deepened. Finally setting his book on the table, looking at Kaveh with that familiar calculating gaze that always unnerved him just a little. "A bet, hm? Interesting. But given your history…"

Kaveh crossed his arms, frowning. "What? What about it?"

"You have a curious affinity for losing them," Alhaitham replied smoothly, standing up to refill his coffee, leaving Kaveh stewing at the table.

Kaveh scoffed, taking another sip of his own coffee and glaring half-heartedly. "I am not losing this one. Tighnari’s date will be amazing. Just wait and see."

"Suit yourself," Alhaitham said with a nonchalant shrug as he returned to his seat. "But I’ll enjoy taking your money. Again."

“You’re so annoying," Kaveh muttered, though there was no real heat behind his words.

They continued their breakfast, discussing anything and everything in a casual back-and-forth. Kaveh was certain he’d win this bet, even if a tiny part of him suspected Alhaitham knew more than he was letting on. Still, he wouldn’t let him off so easily.

 


 

It didn’t take much longer for them to hear from their friends. The next day, in the afternoon, Kaveh’s phone started buzzing repeatedly with notifications. He glanced at the screen and saw their group chat lighting up.

 

Tighnari:
Hey everyone! 

Tighnari:

I know it’s all of a sudden but Cyno and I want to meet up later at the usual place. Can you all make it?

 

Kaveh raised an eyebrow, feeling a sense of curiosity. It wasn’t unusual for the group to hang out, but the suddenness of the request and the fact that Tighnari seemed so excited piqued his interest.

Before he could reply, another message came through.

 

Cyno
We’ll explain when we get there

Candace:
No problem for me, I’m in!

Nilou:
Same here! Looking forward to it 😊

Sethos:
I have some errands to run, but I can make it!

Dehya:
Candace has already confirmed, so count me in.

Kaveh quickly typed his response.

Kaveh:
Sure! I’ll be there

 

He headed toward the living room, where Alhaitham was lounging on the couch, typing on his laptop.

“Did you see the group chat? Tighnari and Cyno want us to meet up later. Any idea what that’s about?” Kaveh asked, walking over and sitting on the edge of the couch.

Alhaitham didn’t look up from the screen, only nodding. “Yes, I saw it. No idea what it could be.”

Kaveh narrowed his eyes, his instincts telling him otherwise. “Are you sure? I know that tone. You do know something.”

Alhaitham’s lips curled into a barely-there smirk, but he didn’t give Kaveh the satisfaction of an answer. “You always assume I know everything. Maybe this time, I’m in the dark too.”

Kaveh huffed, crossing his arms. “You’re a terrible liar. I swear, if this is some big secret you’re keeping just to mess with me, I’ll—”

Alhaitham barely moved, his expression calm as ever. “You’ll what? You already have your hands tied.”

Kaveh rolled his eyes, muttering under his breath. Whatever it was, he felt a surge of anticipation. Tighnari’s anxiety was palpable through his messages. His mind raced with possibilities, but no matter how much he pressed, Alhaitham wouldn’t budge.

The next thing Kaveh knew, they were walking toward the familiar meeting spot—a cozy, dimly lit bar they frequented with their friends. The sky had darkened, but the streets buzzed with evening life.

As they walked, Kaveh shot a sideways glance at Alhaitham. “So… still no idea what this is about?”

Alhaitham raised an eyebrow. “No.”

Kaveh scoffed. “Liar. I know you know something. Tighnari’s excitement practically jumped off the screen. What could be so important that they’d gather us all so suddenly?”

“I suppose you’ll find out soon enough,” Alhaitham replied with a knowing tone that drove Kaveh nuts. “Patience, Kaveh.”

“Ugh, you’re impossible,” Kaveh muttered. His curiosity burned more fiercely than ever, but he knew Alhaitham well enough to know when he wasn’t going to get any answers.

As they reached the bar and stepped inside, the warm, familiar atmosphere greeted them. They spotted their friends already seated at their usual table, laughing and talking. Tighnari was visibly brimming with energy, barely containing a wide smile, while Cyno sat next to him, his arm casually draped around Tighnari’s shoulders. His expression was softer than usual, and there was a tenderness in his gaze as he looked at Tighnari.

Something was definitely up.

“Kaveh! Alhaitham! Over here!” Nilou waved them over, her usual enthusiasm radiating from the table.

Kaveh and Alhaitham made their way to the table, sliding into the remaining seats. Kaveh’s heart raced a little as he watched Tighnari’s barely contained excitement. Whatever was coming, it was going to be big.

“So, what’s that all about?” Kaveh asked, leaning forward, his eyes darting between Tighnari and Cyno.

Tighnari glanced at Cyno, who gave him one of those 'you go first' nods. Tighnari sighed. “We, uh, have something to share,” he started, a little awkwardly. “Cyno and I… have news.”

They locked hands on the table, revealing a new pair of rings on their fingers, sparkling under the dim lights.

Cyno began, his deep voice carrying easily over the din of the bar. “I guess it’s no use keeping you all in suspense any longer. We’re engaged.”

There was a moment of stunned silence before the table erupted into cheers and congratulations. Kaveh’s jaw dropped in disbelief. He turned to look at Tighnari, who was practically glowing with happiness, and then at Cyno, who wore a rare, gentle smile.

Candace’s eyes widened, her expression filled with joy. “That’s amazing! Congratulations!”

Nilou clapped her hands, practically bouncing in her seat. “This is wonderful news! I’m so happy for you both!”

"Engaged?! As in... married?!" Kaveh exclaimed, voice rising in excitement. "Oh Archons, I didn’t see this coming! When did this happen?!"

Tighnari beamed. “Last night! Cyno set up this incredible date, and at the end of it… he proposed.”

“Wait,” Sethos chimed in, pointing at Cyno, “Your annual anniversary date? So… you really won this time, huh?”

Alhaitham nudged Kaveh with a smug grin, as if saying ‘I told you’ and ‘I won’. He wanted to wipe that smirk off his face, but the matter at hand was more important.

“About time!” Dehya exclaimed, hugging the newly engaged couple. “It’s been what? Six years?”

“Yes” Cyno squeezed Tignari’s hand. “And besides, I figured he would leaf me if I didn't act fast."

Tighnari, shaking his head, muttered, “And this is my life now…”

“Oh, come on, Nari,” Cyno replied, still stone-faced. “our love was just... mint to be.”

At that, Kaveh couldn’t hold his smile seeing their exchange, while Tighnari dramatically put his head on the table. "You’re going to ruin our entire engagement with these plant puns."

Cyno shrugged, clearly enjoying himself. “Well, what’s life without a little humor, fiancé?”

As the laughter continued, Tighnari finally lifted his head, shaking it but unable to suppress the small smile that tugged at his lips. Despite the barrage of puns, there was a warmth between them—something steady and real that went beyond Cyno’s relentless jokes.

Kaveh turned to Alhaitham. “You knew, didn’t you?” he asked, narrowing his eyes at the man beside him.

Alhaitham didn’t even try to deny it, setting his drink down and giving Kaveh a casual shrug. “I did,” he admitted, his tone far too pleased. “Cyno asked me for advice a few days ago. I helped him choose the place.”

Kaveh’s eyes widened in mock disbelief. “You? You helped with a proposal? You and romantic gestures? That’s news to me.”

Before Alhaitham could answer, Cyno chimed in from across the table. “He did more than just help me choose the place. Alhaitham gave me some good pointers on timing too. Thanks for that, by the way.” He smiled, clearly grateful.

Alhaitham inclined his head slightly. “Congratulations for getting the ‘yes.’ Though, with how you planned it, I figured it was a done deal.”

Kaveh shook his head, though he couldn’t help but smile at the whole situation. “Fine, fine. I can’t even be mad that I lost.” He sighed “I’m very happy for you two.”

Candace smiled warmly. “We all knew this day was coming, but it’s still amazing to hear.”

Dehya raised her glass with a broad grin. “To Tighnari and Cyno, the newly engaged couple!”

The rest of the group raised their glasses in a toast, and also some people at the bar, voices overlapping with cheers and laughter. The mood was infectious, and Kaveh felt warmth spreading through him as they all celebrated together, a blend of playful banter and genuine happiness filling the night air.

 


 

The following week was a blur to Kaveh. The day to show his newest design finally arrived, the day Kaveh had been building toward all week, the final presentation of his revised project was scheduled for later that afternoon, and though he was feeling more confident now, the nerves still lingered. He sat at his desk, going over the slides one more time, making mental notes about which parts he wanted to emphasize.

His phone buzzed on the desk, snapping him out of his thoughts. A message from Alhaitham appeared on the screen.

 

Alhaitham:

Wanna grab lunch?

Unless you’re planning to survive on nerves alone.

 

Kaveh couldn’t help but roll his eyes. The text was classic Alhaitham—detached, like he didn’t really care, but with just enough concern woven into the words. It wasn’t that Alhaitham was warm or particularly nurturing; it was just his way. If anything, he was looking out for Kaveh in his blunt, no-nonsense manner. Kaveh had been too wrapped up in preparations to think about eating, and he knew Alhaitham probably suspected as much.

 

Kaveh:

I’m fine, really

But sure, I guess I could use a break

 

Kaveh checked the time. He still had a few hours before the presentation. Lunch would be a good distraction from the looming pressure, even if it meant dealing with Alhaitham’s usual annoying remarks.

He stood up, stretching the tension from his shoulders, when he heard a familiar voice at the door.
“Kaveh.”

Turning around, Kaveh was greeted by Alhaitham, casually leaning against the doorframe, his expression as neutral as ever.

Kaveh blinked, half-surprised to see him in his office. "How did you even get in here?"

“They let me in,” Alhaitham said, crossing his arms.

Kaveh scoffed, packing up his things in mock irritation. "Of course they did. You’re probably the only person who can waltz in here without a badge. Did you charm them with your… delightful personality?"

"They’re efficient," Alhaitham replied, unbothered by Kaveh’s teasing. "They recognize that my presence here is practical."

Kaveh shook his head, grabbing his tablet and stuffing it into his bag. "Practical? You show up here to drag me out to lunch before I’ve even finished going over my notes!"

"Of course. You’ll overthink yourself into a spiral if you stay cooped up in here," Alhaitham replied, already turning to lead the way out. "Besides, I don’t trust you to eat anything but a coffee and a bagel. Again." 

Kaveh groaned, following behind him. "I eat more than a bagel!"

As they approached the door, Kaveh paused. “Wait, I need to drop off these design sketches before going. Just a sec!” He hurried down the corridor, Alhaitham watching him with a bemused expression.

After a brief exchange with his coworker, Kaveh returned, slightly out of breath but grinning. “Let’s go.”

The two headed toward the building's reception area, Alhaitham walking with his usual steady confidence while Kaveh tried to ignore the amused glances and whispers from his coworkers as they passed.

Kaveh ignored the whispers, shooting a glance at Alhaitham. “You really know how to make an entrance, don’t you? ’m sure everyone’s going to talk because you’re here.”

Alhaitham raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. "If anyone here actually knew you, they’d understand that spending time with me is probably the least dramatic thing you do."

“What does that even mean?!” 

“Don’t fuss with it.” Alhaitham countered calmly. "You’d be surprised at how much easier life is when you don’t overcomplicate it with unnecessary stress."

When they reached the reception, the receptionist offered them a knowing smile. Kaveh raised an eyebrow at her, and she chuckled. "Heading out for lunch, Mr. Kaveh?"

"Yes, it seems I’ve been rescued from myself," Kaveh replied, throwing a playful glare at Alhaitham, who remained unfazed.

As they made their way out of the building, Kaveh couldn’t resist poking fun. “You know, I’ve been preparing for this for days. The least you could do is offer some actual moral support instead of pretending like you don’t care.”

“I thought moral support was implied by asking you to eat,” Alhaitham replied dryly, holding the door open as they stepped out into the street.

“Implied,” Kaveh snorted, “because saying ‘good luck’ would be too direct for you, huh?”

“I figured you didn’t need me to state the obvious,” Alhaitham said, his tone still infuriatingly calm. “You’ll do fine. I know it.”

The simplicity of his words caught Kaveh off guard, leaving him momentarily speechless. It was rare for Alhaitham to give compliments, even in such a backhanded way. Kaveh opened his mouth to retort, but nothing came out.

“That’s it?” Kaveh finally said, narrowing his eyes. “No long speech about how I may be overthinking things or trying too hard?”

Alhaitham smirked slightly. “I figured you didn’t need it this time.”

Kaveh stared at him for a moment before a slow smile crept onto his face. “Wow. This is high praise coming from the great name of Haravatat. I should mark this down as a miracle.”

“Don’t get used to it,” Alhaitham muttered as they reached the restaurant.

Over lunch, they kept up their usual bickering, Kaveh teasing Alhaitham while Alhaitham subtly reminded Kaveh to eat more than just a few bites. As much as Kaveh wouldn’t admit it out loud, the banter was a welcome distraction from the stress building up inside him.

His phone buzzed at one point, and Kaveh glanced down at the messages from his coworkers in the company’s group chat.

 

Kiran:
That guy just came into the office like it’s no big deal.

Zari:
He is so handsome… Talk about presence.

Jahan:
Are they friends? I’ve never seen Kaveh leave with anyone so casually before.

Bijan:
I didn’t know the publishing guys were so close with our team.

 

Kaveh groaned, showing the texts to Alhaitham, who merely raised an eyebrow. "Look at this. You’re causing an office-wide scandal."

Alhaitham glanced at the screen briefly. "You make it sound like I’m trying to hide something. Maybe you should focus on your work instead of worrying about what others think."

"Wha.. I can’t with you," Kaveh muttered.

As they finished their meal, the tension that had built up over the morning began to dissipate. By the time they were heading back to the office, Kaveh felt lighter and more prepared to tackle the presentation ahead. Even if he didn’t say it aloud, he appreciated that Alhaitham had a knack for keeping him grounded—even if that meant dealing with his infuriatingly unreadable self.

As they walked back, Kaveh shot him a sideways glance. "Thanks for dragging me out."

Alhaitham didn’t look at him, but Kaveh caught the faintest smile on his lips. "Like I said—someone has to keep you from going off the rails."

Kaveh rolled his eyes but smiled too. “Fine, I’ll give you that. But next time, I’m picking the lunch spot.”

 


 

Kaveh returned to the office feeling much lighter than he had before lunch. After talking with Alhaitham, the weight of his nerves had lifted somewhat. As he approached his desk, the familiar sight of papers and sketches greeted him, but something unusual caught his eye.

A bright yellow Post-it note sat atop his neatly stacked files, the handwriting elegantly looping in a way that sent his heart racing. He picked it up, curiosity piqued, and read the message:

“You’ve got this. You’ve worked hard. Just show them what you’re made of.”

 A warm rush spread through him, a mixture of gratitude and giddiness. He scanned the office, half-expecting to catch a glimpse of someone suspicious who might have left the note, but the room was buzzing with the usual hustle and bustle of coworkers focused on their tasks.

His cheeks flushed as he thought about how someone had taken the time to write this for him. A smile crept onto his face, feeling like a lifeline reminding him that he could do this.

With renewed determination, Kaveh straightened his back and took a deep breath. He was ready to face it. He had prepared meticulously, and he would flawlessly present his ideas. 

Later, as he gathered his materials for the presentation, he couldn’t shake the fluttering feeling in his chest. The thought of his secret admirer—he was calling them that now in his head, a mystery that sent his heart racing in more ways than one—lingered in his mind.

He imagined the person behind the note, their face hidden in shadow, and his pulse quickened at the thought. Kaveh shook his head, trying to focus. No, he couldn’t get distracted now. This was important, and he had to keep his mind on the task at hand. But the warmth of the note clung to him, infusing him with an exhilarating mix of hope and curiosity.

With one last glance at the note, he tucked it into his drawer for safekeeping and headed toward the meeting room. Today, he would show everyone just how capable he was, and maybe, later, he would figure out the identity of the one who believed in him.

 


 

Kaveh practically bounced through the front door, a skip in his step and a grin plastered across his face. Today had been a resounding success; They had accepted his revised project enthusiastically, and even Nasir had remained surprisingly silent throughout the presentation. The moment he had finished his pitch and watched the nods of approval from his colleagues felt like a weight lifted off his shoulders.

Feeling celebratory, he had stopped by the store on his way home and picked up a bottle of red wine. The thought of a quiet evening toasting his success filled him with warmth as he entered the apartment.

“Haitham?” Kaveh called out, his voice echoing slightly in the stillness of the apartment.

“In here,” came Alhaitham’s calm reply.

Kaveh found him sitting at the table, a stack of papers spread out in front of him, deep in concentration. He paused for a moment, admiring the way the evening light caught the contours of Alhaitham’s face, making him look even more handsome than usual. Kaveh shook his head, clearing his thoughts, and approached the table.

“What are you doing?” He started, looking at an also fresh from work Alhaitham, with his dress shirt open a few buttons and tie hanging loose around his neck. Must be his excitement talking over him, but Kaveh felt an unexpected urge to hug him and drop his nose against that exposed collarbone.

Before he could do something that would get him kicked out of the apartment for good, Alhaitham replied, “It’s just some work, nothing much. I thought the subject was interesting and brought it home to revise.” He looked up, an eyebrow raised in curiosity. “You seem to be in a good mood. What happened?”

Kaveh shook himself from his reverie. “You won’t believe the day I had!”

Alhaitham set his pen down and leaned back in his chair, a sign that Kaveh had his attention.

“They actually accepted my project!” Kaveh practically shouted, his excitement spilling over. “Everyone was on board, and even Nasir—get this—had nothing to criticize this time!”

Then, to Kaveh’s astonishment, a soft smile broke across Alhaitham's lips, illuminating his usually stoic expression. “Congratulations, Kaveh,” he said, his tone genuinely pleased.

Kaveh’s heart fluttered at the sight of Alhaitham’s smile; it was rare, and he was caught off guard. What is happening to him today? “I brought wine to celebrate!” Kaveh declared, holding up the bottle triumphantly. “Do you want to join me?”

“Sure, why not?” Alhaitham replied, his smile lingering as he set aside his work.

Kaveh hurried to the kitchen, feeling lighthearted as he poured two glasses of wine. He returned to the table, handing one to Alhaitham, who accepted it with a nod. “Fuck Nasir!” Kaveh cheered, clinking his glass against Alhaitham’s.

They settled into a comfortable rhythm as Kaveh relayed the details of his day, animatedly describing his colleagues' reactions and exaggerating their expressions. He felt the effects of the wine warming him, and the tipsy sensation stirred something bold within him.

“Okay, but you should have seen Nasir’s face when I presented the changes,” Kaveh began, his voice conspiratorial. “He looked like he had just bitten into a sour lemon. I thought he might combust!”

Alhaitham smirked, clearly entertained. “I can’t say I’m surprised.”

“Right!” Kaveh laughed, shaking his head. “But not today. Today, I was on fire! Nothing could stop me!”

As his glass clinked on the table, Kaveh felt a buzz of warmth spreading through him—not just from the wine, but from the company. He could see Alhaitham relaxing as well, his demeanor softening.

Kaveh tilted his head, studying him and the papers scattered at his side. “I still don’t understand why you brought work home. Aren’t you the one who says work outside office hours is forbidden? And yet, here you are, buried in those papers. Don’t you ever want to get out and do something fun?”

Alhaitham met his gaze, a flicker of amusement in his eyes. “Sometimes work is fun, Kaveh. But if you’re suggesting I join you on some escapade, you may have to clarify what you mean by ‘fun.’”

“I guess I just mean—well, being around people! Enjoying life! There’s a whole world out there, you know?”

Alhaitham’s expression softened as he took a sip of his wine. “I don’t know; I am content with the company of one person already.”

Kaveh’s heart fluttered at that, and he felt his face warm—it must have been the effects of the alcohol. But before he could respond, he remembered something. “Alhaitham,” he began, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “I forgot to tell you something.”

“Is it another grand plan from the master architect?” Alhaitham teased.

Kaveh grinned, his cheeks warm from the wine. “No, no! It’s about… I think I have a secret admirer.”

Alhaitham raised an eyebrow, genuinely intrigued. “Oh? Do tell.”

Kaveh leaned in closer, the alcohol giving him an extra dose of courage. “I’ve been getting these little notes, you know? Messages encouraging me and saying nice things. At first, I thought it was a prank, but I got another one today… and I think someone’s actually trying to cheer me on.”

Alhaitham regarded him with a calm expression, but his eyes glinted with amusement. “And how does that make you feel?”

Kaveh’s heart raced as he considered the question. “It makes me feel… good. Happy, even. It’s like, I don’t know, someone sees me? It makes my heart flutter,” he admitted, a small smile creeping onto his face as he thought about the notes.

Alhaitham leaned back in his chair, observing Kaveh thoughtfully. “It’s nice to have someone appreciate your efforts,” he nodded, Kaveh could swear he heard a bit of pride in his tone. “You deserve that.”

“Ugh,” Kaveh grimaced, though he smiled at Alhaitham. “I didn’t remember you being this soft when you drink.”

Kaveh felt a warm flush creeping up his cheeks, the combination of the wine and Alhaitham's words igniting a spark of warmth in his chest. “But thanks. I almost forgot about it because there had only been one note, but I guess it just… stuck with me today. I don’t know who it is, though; there was no clue in any of the notes.”

Kaveh glanced back, his expression tinged with embarrassment. “Well, maybe it’s not worth getting excited about. It’s just… notes.”

“Perhaps your admirer is waiting for the right moment to reveal themselves,” Alhaitham said, leaning back in his chair, crossing his arms with an exasperated sigh. “It’s okay to be happy about someone appreciating your work. You’re so quick to doubt yourself.”

Kaveh felt his heart race again, not just from the wine but from Alhaitham’s words. “I just hope they don’t take too long to reveal themselves. I’m curious to know who it is.”

A warm silence fell between them, Kaveh’s gaze locked onto Alhaitham’s. For a brief moment, he considered leaning in closer, letting the moment linger. But he quickly shook his head, the rational part of him breaking through the alcohol-induced haze. “Okay, okay, you’re right,” he said, sitting back with a small laugh. “But let’s not dwell on it. It’s not like it will turn into some topic about my love life.”

“Sure,” Alhaitham said, his gaze unwavering. The room felt heavy as Kaveh looked away.

 


 

Kaveh didn’t know how it had happened, but as the night wore on, they found themselves leaning against the kitchen counter, the bottle of wine nearly drained, only a few sips left. Kaveh wore a goofy grin, his cheeks flushed, and he swayed slightly, barely keeping his balance with his enthusiasm.

“Haitham,” he declared, pointing an unsteady finger at his roommate, “I still don’t believe… You’re actually a good roommate.” He punctuated this proclamation by leaning against Alhaitham’s shoulder, nearly toppling them both over.

“Is that so?” Alhaitham said, his voice laced with amusement as he caught Kaveh, steadying him with a hand on his waist. “And what has brought on this sudden confession?”

Kaveh giggled, his eyes sparkling with tipsy mischief at the feel of Alhaitham’s hand on him. “You know,” he whispered conspiratorially, as if they were sharing a grand secret, “if I wasn’t drunk right now, I’d probably never say this. But you’re… kinda amazing.”

Alhaitham raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips. “Kinda amazing? That’s a bit of an understatement, don’t you think?”

“No, really!” Kaveh insisted, his arms slipping around Alhaitham’s neck as he leaned closer, breath warm against Alhaitham's skin. “When we first met those years ago, I thought, ‘This poor guy needs someone to have his back.’” Without thinking, Kaveh buried his nose against Alhaitham’s collarbone, his words muffled. He didn’t notice how Alhaitham’s body tensed for a moment.

“But after all this time,” Kaveh continued, as if his actions were perfectly normal, “you’ve been the one that had my back! Like, when I was stressed about finding a new place to live or holding me when I’m being a dramatic mess—like right now.” He chuckled, swaying slightly, but Alhaitham’s grip on his waist kept him steady. “You’ve always been there.”

“I’m pretty sure you’d make a mess if you fall over,” Alhaitham’s expression softened, though his teasing remained. 

“Shut up! But really,” Kaveh waved it off, turning serious as he gazed up at Alhaitham. “You’re smart, and you’re kind, in your own way… and you listen to me ramble about all my ideas, even when you don’t agree with me. You still listen.” He sighed dramatically, the weight of his sentiment heavy in his voice. “Not a lot of people would put up with me.”

Alhaitham chuckled, a soft sound that vibrated through him. “You’re right; you can be very troublesome.”

Kaveh playfully swatted at his arm in response, pouting for a brief moment before laughing again.

“But I also know,” Alhaitham added, his tone turning more genuine, “not a lot of people would put up with me either.” He brushed a stray lock of Kaveh’s hair from his forehead, a gentle gesture that made Kaveh’s heart flutter unexpectedly. “So, I guess that makes us even.” He let go, an affectionate smile on his face. 

Kaveh missed Alhaitham’s warmth—why was that man so warm? So he shifted closer again, resting his forehead against Alhaitham’s biceps. “I appreciate it. I hope you know that.”

Alhaitham couldn’t help but look amused at the unexpected sincerity. He had some cups of wine, but not as much as Kaveh. “You might want to save those sweet words for when you’re sober, Senior. They lose their effect when you’re intoxicated.”

Kaveh pulled back slightly, narrowing his eyes at Alhaitham in faux annoyance. “Don’t be a buzzkill! I mean it!”

“Alright, alright. Thank you for the endorsement,” Alhaitham rolled his eyes but the effect of the wine didn’t let him suppress the smile that tugged on his face. “Now, come on. Time for you to get to bed before you decide to confess your undying love for me or something equally embarrassing that will make you regret it in the morning.”

“Pfft,” Kaveh waved a hand dismissively, although his heart raced at the teasing words. “I’d never! Not in a million years!”

Alhaitham was still smiling as he gently helped Kaveh stand up straight. “Right. Let’s save that talk for another night.” 

Kaveh turned to face him, blinking slowly as if trying to focus. His eyes traced over Alhaitham’s face, lingering on his lips and that rare smile. It was a good look on him, and for a second, Kaveh wanted to reach out and tug at his cheeks to make it last longer.

“What?” Alhaitham asked, his smile fading slightly, brow furrowing.

Kaveh shook his head, muttering to himself, “I’m losing my mind.” He stumbled slightly as they made their way toward his bedroom door, Alhaitham’s arm still supporting him.

When they finally reached his bed, Kaveh collapsed onto the mattress with a heavy sigh, his eyes fluttering shut almost immediately. He could feel Alhaitham’s presence at the door, lingering for a moment as if waiting for something.

Kaveh turned his head, looking at him. “Goodnight,” he mumbled, his voice sleepy.

“Sleep well,” Alhaitham replied quietly, the door closing softly behind him.

As Kaveh drifted off, the last thing he remembered was that damn smile he hadn’t been able to stop thinking about.

 


 

In the days that followed, the mysterious notes continued to show up in the most unexpected places. One day, Kaveh received a meal ordered from a nearby café, delivered to his workplace by a coworker who claimed they had no idea who had sent it. As he opened the packaging, a folded slip of paper fell out, and his eyes widened slightly when he read it: “Don’t forget to take care of yourself today. You deserve a break .” He smiled to himself, pocketing the note before anyone could notice.

Another day, he found a note hidden inside one of his design folders, slipped between the pages of his latest project draft. "Your vision is inspiring. Don’t doubt yourself. You bring so much light into the world ." It came on a particularly stressful afternoon, when Nasir had made another round of thinly veiled criticisms about his new drafts. Kaveh had been fuming, but the note had caught him off guard, soothing some of that frustration.

The most suspicious occurrence came one night after he returned home, exhausted yet relieved from a productive day at work. As he entered his room and flicked on the light, there it was—another note, placed conspicuously on his bedside table. His eyebrows furrowed in confusion as he tried to figure out how it had gotten there. Did he let it there himself? It wasn’t like anyone else had access to his room, and there was no one home. Yet there it was, on that pretty handwritten: "You deserve all the happiness in the world, and I hope you can give you some of it."

Kaveh stood still for a moment, curiosity bubbling up as he stared at the small piece of paper. His heart skipped a beat, the familiar gesture tugging at the corners of his mouth. Even though he couldn’t quite place how it ended up there, he found himself smiling. The simplicity of it warmed him in a way he couldn't fully explain. He chuckled softly, shaking his head as he slid the note into his drawer, deciding to let it go for now. Whoever was behind these sweet messages certainly had a talent for brightening his day..

The best part, though, was how each note affected him. They were just words, after all, but they carried something more—something personal and thoughtful that gave Kaveh a sense of comfort he hadn’t expected. It wasn’t just about the compliments or the encouragement. It was about the feeling behind them, like someone cared enough to leave these tiny reminders.

The notes made him giddy in a way he hadn’t felt in a long time. Sometimes, as he worked or sat at his desk, he found himself grinning like an idiot just thinking about them. His coworkers began to notice, glancing at him curiously when he chuckled to himself or when his mood inexplicably brightened throughout the day.

And yet, the mystery remained unsolved. Who was leaving these notes? How did they know so much about his day, his mood, and his life? And most importantly, why? Kaveh’s curiosity started to border on obsession, but at the same time, he didn’t want to rush the answer. There was something thrilling about not knowing, about the chase, and the quiet excitement that came with each new discovery.

Maybe one day he would find out. But for now, he was content with the gesture alone. If he was honest with himself, he was starting to look forward to them, not just because of their sweetness, but because of the flutter they sent through his chest each time he found one.

Archons, he felt like a teenager all over again with this non-existent crush. The fluttering in his chest, the way his thoughts kept drifting back to it—it was ridiculous. He wasn’t some lovestruck kid anymore.

With a sigh, he returned his focus to his work, pushing away any thoughts of a faceless person.

 


 

Kaveh strolled through the bustling market, the early afternoon sun casting a golden glow over Sumeru City. He squinted, checking the list of what he needed to buy before heading home. As he approached a small vendor selling herbal remedies, he caught sight of two familiar faces ahead—Cyno and Tighnari, standing together by a stall, debating over something.

“Kaveh!” Tighnari waved him over, his ears twitching slightly in greeting. Cyno gave a slight nod, a subtle smile playing on his lips.

“Hey you guys!” Kaveh called back, making his way over. “Didn’t expect to see you both here. Stocking up on more herbs?”

“Something like that,” Tighnari said, holding up a small bundle of various plants. “I needed to get a few things for Collei. She’s been doing well, but it’s always good to be prepared.”

“How is she?” Kaveh asked with genuine curiosity. He liked Collei; she was sweet and always had a bright smile when they met.

“She’s thriving,” Tighnari replied, a proud smile tugging at his lips. “Living here has done her good. Her parents are still abroad, but we’re making it work. She’s been enjoying her studies and seems to be adjusting well.”

“Though, once we get married, I’m thinking we’ll just be her parents,” Cyno added, his tone completely sincere, though Kaveh could spot the mischief in his eyes.

Kaveh chuckled. “Oh, parenting already? Does Collei know about this arrangement?”

“She’ll find out soon enough,” Cyno said, his face still stoic. “I’m sure she’ll warm up to the idea. And besides, I already have the best ‘dad jokes’ in this city.”

“Some I could use?” Kaveh crossed his arms.

Tighnari groaned. “Kaveh, please stop encouraging him.”

Cyno glanced over at Kaveh with a twinkle in his eye. “Why don’t skeletons ever fight each other?”

Kaveh blinked. “I don’t know. Why?”

“Because they don’t have the guts.”

Kaveh couldn’t help but laugh. “This one was good.”

“I only work with the best,” Cyno replied, earning an exaggerated eye roll from his fiancé. 

“But enough about us,” Tighnari said, shifting his gaze toward Kaveh with a more serious air. “How have you been, Kaveh? How’s life treating you… and how’s the secret admirer situation?”

Kaveh felt his face warm instantly, his cheeks tinged with a slight blush. He rubbed the back of his neck, avoiding their gazes. “Oh, you know… still haven’t figured that one out. The notes and messages keep coming, but I’ve had no luck in figuring out who it is.”

Tighnari gave him a curious look. “No hints at all? I thought by now you’d have at least some clue.”

Kaveh sighed. “Nope. It’s like they’re a ghost. I just… find the notes randomly. They’ll turn up when I least expect it, and it’s always something that makes my day brighter. But honestly, I have no idea who could be behind it.”

Cyno’s eyes narrowed in thought for a moment before he asked, “How are these messages, exactly? What do they say?”

Kaveh’s expression softened as he thought back. “They’re always kind. Sometimes little compliments about my work or something encouraging when I’ve been stressed. Things like, ‘You’ve got this, Kaveh,’ or ‘Don’t forget how talented you are.’” He was smiling just thinking about them. “It’s… sweet.”

Cyno exchanged a glance with Tighnari before speaking again, this time with a teasing undertone. “Kaveh, have you considered maybe… Alhaitham?”

Kaveh nearly choked on air, his face going beet red as he stared at Cyno in shock. “Alhaitham?! No way, he’s not like that! I mean—he’s too blunt. He wouldn’t do something so… thoughtful.”

Tighnari raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by Kaveh’s flustered reaction. “Why not? Maybe he’s more subtle than you think. After all, you do live together. He would have easy access to your stuff.”

Kaveh waved his hands dismissively, but his heart skipped a beat at the thought. He’d never considered it before—Alhaitham leaving those notes? No, it couldn’t be. The idea that Alhaitham, of all people, could be behind the sweet messages was ridiculous, right?

But deep down, Kaveh couldn’t deny that a small part of him almost… wished it were true.

“It’s not him,” Kaveh mumbled, though his voice wavered slightly. “He doesn’t… think of me like that.”

Cyno, seeing Kaveh’s growing embarrassment, shrugged casually. “You never know. Sometimes people might surprise you.”

“Or maybe you’re just too distracted to see what’s right in front of you,” Tighnari added gently. “I know you tend to overthink things, but sometimes, Kaveh, it’s not about logic. It’s about listening to your heart.”

Cyno chimed in with a smirk, “Yeah, let your heart guide you. Just don’t let it lead you astray. I will find you to give you a pun-ishment if you make the wrong choice.”

Tighnari smiled, elbowing Cyno. “What he’s trying to say is, follow your feelings. If you want to know who this person is, maybe it’s time to start considering the people around you in a different light.”

Kaveh sighed, feeling overwhelmed and yet oddly comforted by their words. “Easier said than done. But I will try to… trust my instincts.”

“That’s the spirit,” Cyno said with a wink. “But don’t wait too long, or you’ll miss your chance. Life’s too short to let these opportunities go.”

Kaveh smiled faintly, feeling lighter as he collected his things. “Thanks, you two. I guess I’ve got a lot to think about.”

As they parted ways, Kaveh’s thoughts drifted back to the possibility of something more. The thought filled him with a warmth he wasn’t quite ready to confront yet.

 


 

When Kaveh finally arrived home, the late afternoon sun had begun to cast long shadows across the living room. He kicked off his shoes, his mind still buzzing with everything Cyno and Tighnari had said. The conversation had stirred feelings he wasn’t ready to deal with yet.

As he stepped inside, he paused, surprised by an unexpected sight—Alhaitham was stretched out on the couch, fast asleep. One arm draped over his chest while the other hung off the side, fingers brushing the floor. His book, predictably, lay face down on the table nearby, pages slightly creased from where he had abandoned it mid-read.

Kaveh’s first instinct was to chuckle. Of course, he’s sleeping in the middle of the day, he thought with a fond roll of his eyes. But as he moved closer, careful not to wake him, he found himself mesmerized.

Alhaitham looked peaceful—more relaxed than Kaveh usually saw him. His usual sharp expression was softened, and his chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm. His gray hair, typically so neat and tidy, was slightly mussed from sleep. Without the cold, logical facade that Alhaitham always wore, he seemed... vulnerable.

Kaveh crouched down beside the couch, unable to help himself. He watched the even rise and fall of Alhaitham’s chest, the steady rhythm of his breath. For a moment, he let his thoughts wander, imagining, just for a second, that Alhaitham could be the one behind the notes. Cyno’s teasing suggestion replayed in his mind, and despite Kaveh’s better judgment, he let the thought linger.

What if?

He studied Alhaitham’s face closely, trying to picture it. The idea that the man who always acted so detached could be leaving sweet, thoughtful notes felt absurd. And yet… he could picture it.

His gaze shifted to Alhaitham’s hand, resting loosely on his chest, and something inside him stirred—a tiny flutter of hope, maybe even desire. What if Alhaitham really was the one who left those messages? What if, beneath all his layers of indifference, there was something more?

But Kaveh quickly shook his head, banishing the thought as fast as it had come. No, no, no, he scolded himself, standing up abruptly. He wasn’t going to let Cyno and Tighnari’s words get to him. If Alhaitham liked him he would know right? He also didn’t do sweet, romantic gestures. He was logical, straightforward, and about as sentimental as a rock.

Kaveh let out a soft sigh, running a hand through his hair as he straightened up. He glanced back at Alhaitham’s sleeping form one last time before whispering to himself, “Don’t be ridiculous, Kaveh. He’s just your roommate. That’s all.”

With that, he turned away, determined to leave his overthinking behind. He wouldn’t let himself entertain those silly thoughts any longer.

 


 

The next morning, Kaveh woke up feeling sluggish, barely able to muster the energy to face the day. He hadn’t slept well—his thoughts had been consumed by everything Cyno and Tighnari had said, and more disturbingly, by the idea of Alhaitham being the one behind those sweet notes. His heart was conflicted, the rational part of him dismissing it as absurd, while another, quieter part whispered to him the possibilities .

He tried to shake it off, focusing on his work, but the distraction lingered like a heavy cloud. Every time he closed his eyes, he saw Alhaitham’s sleeping face from the day before. His usual calm was slipping, replaced by a quiet ache he hadn’t expected. Kaveh realized that, no matter how much he tried to deny it, he had been wishing for something more between them.

This feeling didn’t seem entirely new; it was as if his heart had accepted it long ago and had been waiting for Kaveh to catch up. Now that he finally had, he couldn’t stop thinking about it. If Alhaitham was the one sending those sweet messages, what made him think of that? Did he really think of Kaveh like that? What kind of expression did he wear while contemplating what to write?

How could Kaveh have the urge to visit Alhaitham at his office with a lame excuse when he didn’t even know if he was really the secret admirer he had been searching for all month? Regardless—Kaveh thought—he would still want to see Alhaitham right now, talk to him, or maybe even ki...

Enough. He needed to clear his head. He was a grown adult, for Archon’s sake; he wasn’t young anymore, and he shouldn’t let a crush distract him from his work.

With a sigh, he returned to finish what he was doing, wanting to wrap everything up to go home early that day.

By midday, he was barely making progress on his project, feeling down. When a notification popped up on his screen—an email reminder. Kaveh almost dismissed it as another work memo, but something caught his eye: a short, sweet message hidden at the end.

"You've been thinking too much, haven't you? Why not take a break and follow the clues I’ve left for you? It’s time to find out who’s been brightening your days. Start in the break room—look for something unusual."

Kaveh’s eyes widened, his heart skipping a beat. Was this another note from his secret admirer? But this time, it was a different approach, and what was this about a clue? Something in the message felt more personal, more direct. His curiosity stirred, and despite the lingering melancholy from the night before, he felt a little spark of excitement.

Unable to resist, he got up and made his way to the break room. He scanned the room for anything out of place, trying not to appear too obvious to the people already there. Then, tucked behind the coffee machine, he found it—a folded piece of paper with his name and a simple phrase written on it.

"Good job. You're closer than you think. Head to the hallway mirror—sometimes things are clearer when you see them reflected."

His pulse quickened as he moved to the hallway, his heart pounding louder with every step. When he reached the mirror, he saw a small sticky note, nearly hidden in the corner..

"You’ve been searching outside yourself, but maybe you already know the answer. Look where you keep your thoughts—the bottom drawer of your desk."

Kaveh rushed back to his desk, pulling open the drawer with trembling fingers. There, sitting neatly on top of some old sketches, was another one, this time longer and more heartfelt.

"I've always admired you—your passion, your creativity, even the way you care too much about everything. It’s something I don’t say enough, but you inspire me every day. Now to the last one: meet me at the place where we always found peace."

Kaveh’s heart pounded. He knew exactly where the note was leading him. He grabbed his things, practically running out of the office. He gave a brief explanation to his secretary, telling her she could leave early when she finished everything. His thoughts spun in circles, excitement mingling with nervousness. Could it really be happening? He hoped he was right—that this would be what he truly wanted.

Getting into his car, Kaveh made his way to the park near the Akademiya. There was a place he always went to clear his head when it all felt like too much. He parked and almost ran to the usual spot—a bench under a large oak tree where he and Alhaitham had occasionally spent quiet afternoons when their worries were smaller than they were now.

And there he was—Alhaitham, sitting on the bench, looking down at the ground, his usual composed demeanor nowhere to be seen. Instead, he seemed much more vulnerable. Next to him sat a carefully wrapped package. Alhaitham glanced up as soon as he heard Kaveh approach and stood.

Kaveh’s breath caught in his throat, not knowing how to begin. “You… it was you?”

Alhaitham’s eyes dropped to the ground. “Is it really that weird?” He looked at Kaveh again, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. “Yes. It was me.”

Kaveh was speechless for a moment, the weight of everything settling in. The clues, the sweet messages, the small gestures of affection—it had all been Alhaitham. Deep down, maybe he’d known all along.

“You?” Kaveh whispered, a smile slowly spreading across his face. His heart fluttered in his chest, and for the first time in weeks, he felt light again. “But… why didn’t you say anything?”

Alhaitham sighed, clearly struggling to find the right words. “I thought… At first it was just one thought. I wasn’t sure how to approach you directly and didn’t know if you would be okay with that. Coming from me, you would find writing notes silly or you wouldn’t believe me. But I had to do something. I couldn’t just… say nothing.”

He sighed again. “I’m not that good with spoken words, but I work very well with written ones. You could say this was my courage finally speaking.” He grabbed the small package from the bench.

He hesitated, then held out the gift. “I know it’s not much, but I wanted to give you something after that day you came back happy that your project got approved. Just… as a congratulation. I hope it’s not too late.”

Kaveh took the gift, his hands trembling slightly. He opened it slowly, revealing a small, intricately designed notebook, the kind Kaveh loved to sketch in. Inside the cover, there was a simple message written in Alhaitham’s neat handwriting:

"For the pride architect who builds more than just structures—he also builds the hearts of those around him."

Kaveh felt his heart swell, emotions threatening to overwhelm him. “You… really did all of this for me?”

Alhaitham nodded, his expression softening. “Yes.”

Kaveh felt a lump rise in his throat, his eyes stinging with unshed tears. He looked at the man in front of him, his usual confidence stripped away, leaving only sincerity in its place.

“Haitham…” Kaveh whispered, stepping forward. “I don’t even know what to say.”

“You don’t have to say anything,” Alhaitham said, his voice soft. “I just… wanted you to know. I don’t expect you to feel the same way.”

“No! I…” Kaveh hesitated, then closed the distance between them, wrapping his arms around Alhaitham in a tight hug. He buried his face in Alhaitham’s shoulder, feeling the warmth and solidity of him, the quiet comfort that had been there all along. “Thank you,” Kaveh murmured, his voice thick with emotion.

He felt Alhaitham relax under his embrace. “Sorry for not telling you sooner. I didn’t want to risk anything.” His voice was quieter than Kaveh had ever heard it. “I thought the notes would be… safer.”

Kaveh looked up at him, frowning. “Risk what?”

Alhaitham swallowed, his eyes searching Kaveh’s face. “Losing you again,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

Kaveh’s heart pounded, his mind reeling. Alhaitham, always so composed, was standing in front of him, confessing something Kaveh had never expected to hear. But it was real—he could see it in the uncertainty in Alhaitham’s eyes, in the way his hands fidgeted with Kaveh’s clothes.

“Alhaitham,” Kaveh began, his voice soft, “you’re an idiot.”

Alhaitham blinked, taken aback. “What?”

Kaveh took a deep breath. “You could’ve just said something. You didn’t have to go through all this.”

“I didn’t think you—”

Kaveh shook his head, cutting Alhaitham off. “You don’t get it, do you?” His voice trembled, the words catching in his throat. “I’ve been thinking about this for so long… about you… longer than I should’ve. I just never thought you’d feel the same.”

Alhaitham’s eyes widened slightly, and for a moment, the air hung thick between them, heavy with unspoken emotions.

Without thinking, Kaveh closed the distance between them, his hand reaching up to cup the back of Alhaitham’s neck. Gently, he pulled him down and pressed his lips against Alhaitham’s.

The kiss was soft at first, tentative, but warmth flooded through Kaveh, undeniable and electrifying. Alhaitham’s lips were warm, and for a brief moment, he hesitated, surprised. But then he responded, his hand resting on Kaveh’s waist, pulling him closer.

Kaveh’s heart soared as the kiss deepened, the world around them fading away. Everything had led to this moment—all the little notes, the tension, the stolen glances. It was all right here, in this kiss.

When they finally pulled apart, Kaveh was breathless, his cheeks flushed. Alhaitham looked just as shaken, his eyes searching Kaveh’s face for something unspoken.

Kaveh shook his head, a soft smile breaking through. “You’re really an idiot,” he murmured, affection lacing his voice. He lingered on Alhaitham’s gaze a moment longer than intended. “Honestly, what was with that whole scavenger hunt? Did you have to go all out like that?”

Alhaitham chuckled, a spark of amusement lighting up his usually stoic face. “If I’m honest, the elaborate setup was Cyno’s idea. Something about paying me back for helping with the proposal.” He shrugged, a hint of a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “And your secretary was the one who actually placed the notes in your office.”

Kaveh’s eyes widened in disbelief. “So she was in on it!” He laughed, half in disbelief, half in embarrassment, picturing her stifling giggles while setting it up. “I’ll have to have words with her tomorrow,” he added, though his smile softened, betraying his appreciation.

A comfortable silence settled between them, Alhaitham’s gaze fixed on Kaveh with an unusual gentleness. Kaveh’s heart fluttered again, and before he could think twice, he leaned in for another gentle kiss. Alhaitham’s initial surprise melted into warmth as he returned it, his hand resting on Kaveh’s shoulder.

When they finally pulled apart, Kaveh’s cheeks were still flushed, and he glanced down, unable to hide his newfound shyness. He laughed softly, still processing what had just happened, then looked up at Alhaitham.

“Does this mean the notes will continue or not?” Kaveh asked, a playful smile curving his lips.

Alhaitham smirked, his hand lingering on Kaveh’s shoulder. “Aren’t you a little greedy?”

“For you? Always,” Kaveh replied, leaning in once more, closing the small space between them. Their lips brushed together again, Kaveh’s hands resting gently on Alhaitham’s chest as they grew more certain, the world around them quieting, leaving only the shared warmth between them.

Notes:

Thank you for reading ^^

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Kisses :*