Archive of Our Own

Kaveh is known for his bright, creative, and well-thought out ideas. He’s one of the most renowned architects in Sumeru, everything he did always required a well-constructed plan. However, despite his calculatedness being honed due to his profession, there are still times when his artsy and creative whims as an artist get the best of him. 

Today is one of those days when he decided to give into his impulsive creative whims instead of properly thinking things through. 

He wonders if this is somehow worth all the risk but as he feels the adrenaline and thrill coursing through him, all rational thinking is tossed out of the metaphorical window. 

His roommate has been busy with work for the past week and a half and it’s driving him nuts. He only comes home to take a shower and change his clothes then he’s gone again before Kaveh could even say more than three sentences to him. 

Kaveh is worried that his roommate might be overworking himself too much. 

After all, nobody expected him to be promoted right after all the commotion that went on in Sumeru---especially when he was a part of the said commotion. 

His roommate is known for being the type to never do work outside of work hours but being appointed as the Grand Sage suddenly changed a lot of things. He is forced to shoulder the work and he cannot just clock out this time. 

Don’t get Kaveh wrong, Kaveh is a workaholic himself and he’s usually the one that’s overworked to the bone but he’s (unfortunately) grown used to that. His roommate, however, is not, which is why Kaveh knows how overwhelming this is to the other.

Even their friends have been sending messages to Kaveh about how his roommate hasn’t been properly resting or eating properly. Kaveh understands how important this job is as the newly appointed Grand Sage but he should take care of himself too but if he can’t take care of himself now since he’s too busy then it’s up to Kaveh to take matters into his own hands. 

Why is Kaveh even doing this? Should he really be this concerned for a roommate? 

Roommates. Kaveh scoffs at the thought. They have long crossed that line but they’ve always kept everything between themselves for their careers’ sake. 

Roommates don’t kiss each other. Roommates don’t end up naked in each other’s beds after a very long night. Roommates don’t cuddle each other until morning on their rare days off. 

Fuck buddies is one way to put it but Alhaitham hasn’t put a label in it so he won’t either. 

It’s nearly midnight by the time he arrives in the Akademiya. Luckily, the researchers and some scholars are not around so he’s able to come in without disturbing anyone. A few familiar faces greet him when he arrives near the office of the Grand Sage. His current project is located in Ardravi Valley so he hasn’t visited the Akademiya in a while. 

“Kaveh, what brings you here at this hour?” He nearly jumps when he runs into Tighnari and Cyno.

“What are you two doing here?” Kaveh asks as he subconsciously tightens his overcoat. 

Cyno crosses his arms. “We just had a meeting with the Grand Sage, it’s time for the end of the month reports. What are you doing here though?” 

“Alhaitham didn’t come home again so I bought clothes and food for him.” Kaveh says with a shrug. 

Tighnari smiles when his eyes land on the bag Kaveh is carrying. “He’s been holed up in his office since the promotion. I’m glad you came, you should talk some sense into him. He is obviously overwhelmed but he’s too stubborn to ask for help or take a break at least.” 

“The meeting is over, right? Or is he still going to have any visitors for tonight? I can just drop these off.” He tries to act coy. 

“His next meeting will be this morning with the Aaru Village chief, you should stay in his office for a while. We’re required to join the meeting too so we’ll be staying the night in the quarters” Tighnari says. 

“Wow, you’re all so busy.” Kaveh says with a soft gasp. 

“Not as busy as he is.” Cyno points at the office of the Grand Sage. “Go on,” He urges. 

Kaveh mentally sighs in relief at that. He doesn’t know what he’ll do if they say he isn’t allowed inside at the moment. He doesn’t ask any more questions and thanks them instead. 

He walks towards Alhaitham’s office and softly knocks on the door. When he doesn’t get a reply, he knocks once again. 

“I’m busy,” He hears a gruff response from the other side of the door. 

“Can I come in?” Kaveh asks. 

“I said I’m busy.” 

“I need to see you right now.” Kaveh tells him.

“Is it related to the case in Port Ormos?” 

Kaveh rolls his eyes in annoyance. "No, I'm here to--" 

"Then don't waste my time." 

The blond huffs in disbelief. He clenches his fist and knocks repeatedly until he hears hurried footsteps. 

"Didn't I tell you to--" Alhaitham's eyes widen in surprise when he's suddenly face to face with his roommate. "Kaveh? What are you doing here?" 

"I was worried about you so I bought clothes and food. I thought you would appreciate it instead of telling me to--what did you say again? Not waste your time?" He cocks an eyebrow at him as he places a hand on his hip. 

Alhaitham doesn't bother to hide his frustration. "I didn't tell you to go. I'm still busy with paperwork and the case at Port Ormos." 

Kaveh welcomes himself inside the Grand Sage's office. "I know, I know." Alhaitham groans before slamming the door shut and returning to his seat to read through the several scrolls delivered to him earlier this morning. "I'm just here to make sure that you get to eat something. Cyno and Tighnari are worried as well, you know." He takes out the food container he brought. 

"Sure, leave it then go." Alhaitham waves him off.

"I'm not leaving until I'm sure that you have eaten properly. I even dropped by Madam Faruzan's place to ask for help in cooking this dish. I even bought Baklava for dessert." Kaveh huffs.

"Archons…" Alhaitham runs his fingers through his messed up hair. "Fine, I'll eat." 

Kaveh smiles triumphantly as he takes a good look around the office. It’s his first time inside the office ever since Alhaitham got promoted. There have been a few changes, Azar used to have a lot of fancy looking decorations and furniture which were over the top even for Kaveh’s tastes. Now, the office looks a lot simpler and it’s very suited to Alhaitham’s tastes. Somehow it’s like… home? 

“Thank you for bringing me food, Kaveh. Would you like to have a seat?” Kaveh says in a sarcastic tone. 

Alhaitham huffs in annoyance but he proceeds to eat the food that Kaveh brought. The blond watches him with satisfaction. 

“When are you coming home?” He asks.

“I was planning to drop by this morning.” Alhaitham answers.

“I meant actually coming back home, dropping by doesn’t count.” Kaveh retorts.

“Can’t tell. As I mentioned, there are reports of the Fatui making moves in Port Ormos so I’m making sure it’s looked into before it escalates into a bigger problem.” Alhaitham explains.

Even as his roommate is eating, he is still browsing through a scroll. “Can’t you at least stop working while you’re eating?” Kaveh complains.

“Can’t afford to waste time, an insider has mentioned about the Eremites working with the Fatui as well. We need to take action.” The Acting Grand Sage didn’t even spare a look at him. “The sooner I get this done, the sooner I can finally go back to my usual work routine.”

“You can’t really go back to your usual work routine, Grand Sage. I know it’s because of your pride that you’re overworking yourself right now since the previous Grand Sage left lots of work to do but you can always ask for help.” 

If Alhaitham is irked by that statement, he still stubbornly refuses to show it. “This case is none of your business.” 

“Is this case really more important than the limited time you can spend with me?” Kaveh blurts. 

Alhaitham looks up at him and Kaveh freezes for a moment. “Archons, I can’t believe I just said that.” He mentally scolds himself. 

That sounded so clingy and needy… and pathetic. So what if they don’t spend time together? They’re just two people that are currently living under the same roof. Nothing more, nothing less. 

“So this is about you?” Alhaitham bites back a scoff. 

“No! That’s not what I meant.” Kaveh defends.

Alhaitham finally sets aside the scroll. “Care to enlighten me on what you meant?” 

Kaveh chuckles dryly. “I’m just worried that you’re not properly taking care of yourself. If you get sick, it’ll be a lot more work piled up on you.” He takes a seat at the edge of the other’s desk.

The younger of the two sighs. “Fair point.” 

“Eat up, Grand Sage.” Kaveh clicks his tongue. 

Alhaitham continues to eat and Kaveh mentally gives himself a pat on the back for changing the subject at ease. He basks in the comfortable silence for a while until Alhaitham looks up at him once again. 

“But you know, you still haven’t answered my question.” He raises a finger. “I do know how important my work is and how important it is to take care of myself but you mentioned something along the lines of me spending time with you so,” he raises an eyebrow at him. “Would you like to explain that to me once again?” 

Shit.

“What are you talking about?” 

“If you’re going to play dumb, then go home.” 

Kaveh stubbornly stares at the other. Why does he have to be so annoyingly attentive? 

When Kaveh doesn’t  respond, Alhaitham slowly stands up and steps in front of him. Kaveh tries his best to avoid his gaze but it is hard when he’s practically right in front of his damn face. 

“If you miss me, you can just say so.” Alhaitham’s voice sounds so smug. 

“Miss you?” Kaveh scoffs. “Don’t be absurd.” 

“Then why are you making such a fuss over me not coming home? You don’t usually care, do you? Not unless…” Alhaitham steps a little bit too close to his liking. “You miss me, or at least… the things I do to you.” 

Kaveh gulps.

“You want me to go home because you’re all pent up, are you? It’s been over a month after all if we count the weeks you weren’t home as well, you must be so riled up.” 

When Kaveh makes no response, Alhaitham softly brushes a finger against Kaveh’s lips. “You’re so selfish,” he whispers before leaning in for a kiss. “All that talk about my health and the sake of the city, that’s not the main reason you’re begging me to come home is it?” 

Kaveh pulls away. “I wasn’t begging!” 

Alhaitham has a smug look on his face and Kaveh wishes he could punch it right off. “Alright fine, but it’s not just solely because of that okay? Your co-workers have been sending me messages as well, I didn’t want them to think that I couldn’t care less about my roommate.” 

“I can spare you some time,” Alhaitham shrugs. “Just tell me what you want.” 

With Alhaitham this close after so long, all of Kaveh’s rational thinking just easily dissipates. This is part of his motive for today after all. “Please touch me,” he murmurs. 

“Hold on,” Alhaitham rasps as he pulls Kaveh off the desk before making a gesture for him to sit on the chair. He wastes no time before leaning down and capturing Kaveh’s lips in a needy kiss.

It’s almost embarrassing how needy Kaveh is. He’s quick to part his lips and grab Alhaitham’s hair. His roommate rests a knee on the chair to keep him in place, not like Kaveh wants to be anywhere else.

He closes his eyes as he indulges himself with Alhaitham’s lips. The kiss is filthy with all teeth and tongue but it’s exactly what he needs. Alhaitham grabs him by the wrists and pins them against the armrest. He hums in contentment. 

It all shatters when he feels something tight against his wrists. Kaveh’s eyes snap open just as Alhaitham breaks the kiss. “What the--”

“Haitham!” He hisses when he realizes that Alhaitham just used his dendro vision to tie his wrists on the armrest. 

“My apologies, I really need to get this work done today. I know it’s uncomfortable but you’ll have to bear with it. I’m doing this out of necessity.”

He cannot even struggle his arms because the vines only tighten the more he moves.

“Really?! You’re going to keep me tied up here so that you can work?!” Kaveh exclaims. 

Alhaitham simply places a finger against his lips. “If you make too much noise someone will walk in and I’d have to send you off by then.” 

Kaveh bites his lip but not before glaring daggers at his roommate. “You’re evil.” He mutters.

Alhaitham simply pushes Kaveh and the chair out of his way before grabbing an extra chair for him to use instead. He returns to reading through the scrolls and occasionally signing some of the paperwork left on his desk. 

“What happened to the handcuffs you used on me before?” Kaveh asks. The other pretends as if he couldn’t hear him. “I’m asking you a question, I want to find out if you do this often.” He sarcastically adds.

“It’s still in my room. Had I known that you’d come begging for me here in my office as well then I would have brought it along with me.” He monotonously replies.

Kaveh rolls his eyes in annoyance. He always has a retort to everything. “Besides, these will restrict you more. The cuffs still give you movement.” 

“That’s sexy,” Kaveh comments. 

Alhaitham simply gives him a judging look before returning his attention back to his paperwork. “Oh come on, if you were going to do this then you shouldn’t have kissed me at all. You’re mean.” He complains.

“Keep quiet or I’ll have to gag you.” Alhaitham warns. His voice is calm but Kaveh can tell that it’s not an empty threat. 

One thing he learned the hard way once is to never rile Alhaitham up when he has a deadline to catch. That’s exactly what Kaveh wanted to do when he first stepped into the Akademiya, he knew it wasn’t a good idea at all yet he still proceeded--so now here he is, tied onto a chair. 

But it’s not like Kaveh has any plans on giving up either. He came in here to give the acting Grand Sage a good distraction and he’s not coming home empty handed. 

Luckily, his legs and feet aren’t tied up so he’s putting that to good use. He slides off his boots and lightly taps his foot against Alhaitham’s leg. His roommate shows no signs of annoyance so Kaveh takes that as a go signal to continue. He starts by nudging his foot against Alhaitham’s leg first and when the other continues to show no reaction, he slowly rubs it up and down his leg. Alhaitham visibly stiffens but he still doesn’t make a comment.

Kaveh, now as smug as ever, trails his foot higher. He rubs his foot over the other’s crotch and smiles innocently when the acting Grand Sage shoots him a warning glare.

“Don’t test me. Kaveh.” 

The architect smirks. “Keep working then, I’m only trying to relieve your stress.” He says.

Alhaitham holds his gaze and Kaveh licks his lips as he continues to circle his foot over the slowly forming bulge on his roommate’s trousers. 

“You’re stressing me out even more,” He retorts.

The blond fakes an offended look. “How could you say that? I brought you food and gave you encouraging words. Is a little reward a little too much to ask?” He pouts. “You wanted to get rid of me so soon that you haven’t even noticed that I’m wearing something different than usual.” 

It’s the first time that night when Alhaitham spares him for more than ten seconds to look at him. “Why are you wearing that when you’re just going to drop by my office?” he asks.

Kaveh is wearing a long, expensive looking maroon coat that matches the cape he usually wears. He only wears it on special occasions or when he’s going on trips outside of Sumeru.

“Care to find out?” Kaveh asks, voice sounding suggestive. 

That definitely got Alhaitham’s attention. The Grand Sage stands up and leers at him. Kaveh straightens himself on his seat and shows off the coat. 

Alhaitham looks like he’s contemplating. He eyes the stack of paperwork on his desk before returning his attention to Kaveh. He hesitantly reaches over and begins unlacing the fully fastened coat. 

Alhaitham suspiciously looks over Kaveh who only annoyingly flutters his eyes at him. Soon enough, the whole overcoat is unfastened. The Grand Sage gulps before spreading it open, like a present waiting to be opened.

Alhaitham’s eyes darken and Kaveh internally celebrates his victory.

“Fuck…” Alhaitham breathes out. He can’t keep his eyes off of the other.

Before leaving their shared apartment, Kaveh has already decided that he’s not coming back without… getting his fill so he got himself all dressed up, more like underdressed, in case he needed to give Alhaitham a little more ‘push’. 

Kaveh is wearing a see-through lace shirt that is tucked in the pants he has on. It’s almost offensive to see the pants matched with the very revealing top he has on.

“Do the honors?” Kaveh lifts his hips and gestures towards the pants. Alhaitham licks his lips before pulling the garment off and he feels his throat going completely dry upon seeing what his roommate is currently wearing underneath.

The lace top nearly reaches his mid-thighs and it has matching underwear, thigh straps, and long socks. “You like it?” He asks as he stretches out his leg, the black fabric only shows off how flawless and pale his skin is. “I wasn’t sure if you’d be into this but I think I got my answer.”  

Alhaitham walks towards the door to make sure it’s locked, Kaveh would have jumped at him if he wasn’t tied up.

"You really went outside late at night wearing only… this?” Alhaitham’s voice is deep and authoritative, and is that a hint of possessiveness that Kaveh hears?

“I had my pants and overcoat on. This is for your eyes only and no one else’s” Kaveh nonchalantly says as he crosses his legs.

"Still, you're so reckless. If the guards didn't know you well, they would have asked you to open your coat for them to check and do you know how pissed I'd be if that happened?" Alhaitham reprimands. 

"It's part of the thrill. I walked all the way here dressed up like this, all for you." Kaveh chuckles.

Alhaitham leans down and places his hands on top of Kaveh's bound wrists so that they are eye level. "Well I don't like it. I don't want you risking anyone else seeing you like this again." 

"Do you like it though?" Kaveh asks again.

The acting Grand Sage checks him out again. "Not bad, you know." Despite the nonchalant response, Kaveh can see that his tone and expression says otherwise. 

"Is that the best comment you have? Hmmm?" Kaveh raises his leg to feel his knee against the other's crotch. Despite Alhaitham's nonchalant answer, his tone and expression says otherwise. He is all too familiar with that glint on his eyes. He knows Alhaitham loves it but he'll never admit it. 

"Tell me what you want." Alhaitham rasps.

"I want this…" he grinds his knee against the forming bulge on Alhaitham's pants. "Inside me," he says. "If you're going to be busy with work then at least have the decency to fuck me so hard that I'd feel you for days." the blond challenges.

There is a mischievous glint in Alhaitham's eyes. "Not yet though," he says before stepping back until he's out of Kaveh's reach.

Kaveh looks at his roommate in disbelief. "Wait, what? What do you mean not yet?!" 

“Your tactics might have worked on me but that doesn’t mean I’ll give it to you that easily.”  He takes something from his desk. “You have the guts to come into my office to disrupt my work while dressed inappropriately. You should be punished, no?” 

Kaveh eyes the feather--no, it’s a quill--that Alhaitham just took. It’s the same color as the one he usually wears in his hair. “Is that mine?” He asks. 

Alhaitham doesn’t respond. Instead, he strokes the feather with his long fingers. Kaveh doesn’t understand how the other can make an action like that look so… sexy. 

Alhaitham gently taps the tip of the feather against Kaveh’s neck before sliding it down to his chest and onto his navel, then he rubs it back up. “You like this?” This time it’s Alhaitham asking.

Kaveh closes his eyes and leans his head back. He feels the soft tip of the feather pressing against his nipple causing him to squirm. “Use your words,” 

“Not bad, you know.” Kaveh gives the same response as Alhaitham did a while ago though he failed to sound as composed as the other did. 

He feels the feather against his skin again, it brushes lower and lower until it reaches his inner thighs. Alhaitham strokes it up then down again. He’s not even touching him but he feels so turned on already. 

Kaveh whimpers when Alhaitham plays with the thigh straps. “Well someone’s needy,” Without warning, he stretches the strap and snaps it back against Kaveh’s thigh. 

His breath hitches and his pale skin easily reddens. Alhaitham looks into his crimson eyes. “Use your hand,” Kaveh whispers. The other cocks an eyebrow at him but he does it anyway. His palm slaps against the blond’s inner thigh. His breathing becomes heavier as he squirms on his seat.

“Don’t close your legs,” Alhaitham orders when Kaveh presses his thighs together. When Kaveh doesn’t move, he yanks the shorter’s legs apart and lightly trails the feather on his inner thighs up to his crotch. 

He slips the quill under the waistband of the underwear and lightly pulls it just enough to make it snap against Kaveh’s skin.

“Mmh!” He gasps.

“Keep quiet. If someone knocks on that door and asks us a question, we’re ending this.” Alhaitham warns.

Kaveh bites his lower lip and nods. Alhaitham circles the tip of the feather over his nipple, the pink nub hardens and he moves onto the other. Kaveh shivers, his back arches and he presses his thighs together once again. A smack lands against his thighs  again and he whimpers before spreading his legs like before.

Alhaitham rubs a smoothing palm over his skin. “Color? He asks.

“Green,” Kaveh replies with a sigh.

It may be Kaveh’s first time dressing up for Alhaitham like this but that doesn’t mean that they haven’t tried different things before. Kaveh nearly presses his legs together again when Alhaitham uses the feather to stroke over his clothed erection. 

“Haitham please,” Kaveh pants.

Alhaitham continues to tease him with the feather by running it over the smooth expanse of his skin and onto his most sensitive areas. He keeps squirming on his seat causing the vines to tighten. His wrists already have red marks on them. 

The taller of the two places the feather on his desk but Kaveh doesn’t take that as a chance to be relieved. They are just getting started. His roommate admires him in his lewd attire one more time before grabbing the hem of the lace shirt and yanking it up.

He hisses when Alhaitham leans down to suck on one of his nipples, wetting it saliva and circling his tongue on the erected bud. He flicks the other nipple with his thumb before lightly pinching it. Kaveh moans again when his teeth graze them. Alhaitham moves to suck on the other while he plays with the other with his fingers.

“Volume,” Alhaitham softly reminds him as he leaves a hickey just above Kaveh’s chest. “You can cum if you want to.” he says as he slowly starts to stroke Kaveh’s cock.

“What are you up to?” The blond skeptically asks.

Alhaitham gives him a devilish smirk that promises a lot of things. Kaveh is already hard from all the teasing, it will only take a few more pumps until he gets his release. He bucked his hips to meet the stroke of Alhaitham’s hand but the acting Grand Sage suddenly stops touching him the moment he is about to climax. 

“Alhaitham!” He whines.

This. This is what he’s up to. He can cum if he wants to but Alhaitham will continue to rile him up like this. 

Alhaitham opens one of his drawers and takes out a handkerchief. Kaveh instinctively closes his mouth. The younger gives him a look. “Open up,” 

“I’ll be quiet.” Kaveh pleads. Alhaitham stretches the piece of cloth with his fingers. “I promise I’ll be quiet. You don’t have to use that,” He rambles. Alhaitham raises a questioning brow at him. “If I make any noise, you may go back to work.” 

The last sentence only perks up Alhaitham’s interest even more. “Are you sure?” He asks as if it is a challenge. 

“Yes,” Kaveh responds with a strained voice. “I can stay quiet.” 

Alhaitham simply shrugs his shoulders and starts to stroke him once again. Kaveh’s jaw falls slack into a silent moan. He feels himself nearing his release once again but just like earlier, Alhaitham stops just in time.

Kaveh nudges his roommate’s leg with his foot. Alhaitham looks at him with feigned concern. “You okay?” He nods. “Then why?” He asks. Kaveh shoots him a glare, he stomps his feet onto the floor and rolls his hips. Alhaitham looks amused. 

Oh how the tables have turned.

“You know,” Alhaitham says as the summoned vines start to disappear. “I haven’t seen how your outfit looks from the back.” 

Kaveh quickly rubs his wrists once he’s free to soothe the pain. Alhaitham doesn’t give him enough time though since the other forces him to stand up before kicking the chair towards the side.

Kaveh feels more exposed now that he’s standing up. Alhaitham circles him like a red vulture that found its prey. He is wearing a thong. It is made of lace on the front with a thin, black string on the back. Alhaitham grabs his ass and squeezes in contentment.

“Bend over the table,” He orders.

Kaveh gulps nervously but he also feels his cock twitching. He is definitely getting much more than he bargained for. 

“Ah, wait a second,” Alhaitham says. He piles the scrolls and books and transfers them to a different surface. 

Kaveh lets out a muffled grunt since it’s such a mood killer. “So impatient,” Alhaitham remarks once he’s done. He positions himself behind Kaveh and pushes him down on the table with a hand on his nape. He uses his other hand to grab a handful of Kaveh’s ass.

Kaveh reaches forward to grab the edge of the desk for leverage, toes curling in anticipation.

He smacks his ass and Kaveh keens. Alhaitham watches as Kaveh’s skin blushes prettily before repeating the action. Kaveh’s muffled moans are throaty and needy, practically begging to be fucked. 

“You really think you can just barge in my office and have things go your way easily?” Alhaitham grunts as he lands his third smack. “You disrupted my work thus extending my office hours even more, so I won’t make things any easier for you.” 

Kaveh’s cock is a slobbering mess by now but Alhaitham continues to neglect it to give his attention to Kaveh’s ass instead. 

Then, finally, Alhaitham pulls the panties down until they’re pooled down on Kaveh’s ankles. “Any lube?” Alhaitham asks.

Kaveh slightly turns his head and directs his gaze at his coat. Alhaitham checks and he finds a packet in one of the pockets. “I have to give you credit though,” he rips it open with his teeth. “You really thought this through.” 

Alhaitham dribbles the slippery liquid on his fingers to warm it up. He rubs his fingers over Kaveh’s perineum and hole before pushing one in. He scoffs in amusement. “You prepped yourself,” He easily adds another.

Kaveh squirms, fully leaning his whole weight against the table. His roommate scissors his fingers and easily finds his prostate. His back arches beautifully as Alhaitham continues to abuse that sensitive spot. He feels himself nearing his release once more but right when he’s on edge, Alhaitham pulls his fingers out.

His legs nearly give in but Alhaitham hooks his arm by his waist for extra support. “Are you enjoying this?” Alhaitham chuckles. 

Kaveh musters the courage and strength to turn around and flip his roommate off. This amuses the acting Grand Sage even more. He is about to reach for his own cock to tug himself to completion when Alhaitham suddenly pins his wrists against his lower back. He whines in frustration. Archons, he’s so turned on. There’s no doubt that Alhaitham is hot but he’s even hotter when he’s like this, authoritative and controlling. 

Kaveh can feel his roommate’s hard erection against his ass. He pushes his hips back, just to feel more of the other. He could feel Alhaitham tensing above him. Kaveh smirks triumphantly, about damn time. 

Alhaitham pulls back a bit, he cranes his head to look at Alhaitham. The acting Grand Sage meets his gaze, he huffs before unbuttoning and pulling his pants down. Kaveh braces himself against the desk as Alhaitham lubes up his cock. Turns out the teasing isn’t over yet because his roommate doesn’t put it in just yet. 

Kaveh huffs in frustration. “Alhaitham please,” He whimpers.

Alhaitham shushes him by slowly pushing his cockhead in but before Kaveh could even enjoy that, he pulls out. “Fuck,” Kaveh gasps. “I swear to the Dendro Archon, if I ever fuck--” 

Alhaitham cuts him off by thrusting in, Kaveh muffles his moans on the back of his hand. “Yeah? She wouldn’t like that. Besides, I’m not the one bent over my desk now, am I?” Alhaitham grunts. He tightly grips Kaveh’s hips as he starts to slowly roll his hips. 

It’s torturous, Alhaitham isn’t giving him the pace that he wants. Alhaitham’s thrusts were deep enough to graze his prostate but not fast enough to give him the stimulation that he wanted. “Harder,” He pants, his nails scratching against the table.

Alhaitham sucks harsh kisses on his neck as he gives Kaveh one deep thrust that nearly has him jerking forward against the table. “Is that to your liking?” He whispers. 

“Yes, yes--” Alhaitham clasps his hand over Kaveh’s mouth to muffle his moans. He braces his other hand against the desk for leverage, pulls out then slams forward. He does not hold back as he greedily fucks into Kaveh. 

Alhaitham is thankful that his office has soft flooring because anyone nearby would definitely be hearing his desk scraping against the floor right now if it isn’t because of the carpeted floor. 

This is exactly what he needed after being forced to work day and night because of an unexpected promotion. He can’t believe he lasted this long in depriving both him and Kaveh of this pleasure. One hard thrust had Kaveh nearly screaming. Alhaitham lifts one of Kaveh’s legs onto the desk to give him a better angle. 

“You look so hot like this.” Alhaitham praises. “You’re so hard too, having sex in my office gets you off that much, huh?” He starts thrusting again. “Should I keep you under my desk next time? Have you kneeling on the floor as you suck my cock during my meetings? Or how about the House of Daena? I can pin you against a bookshelf, you’re such a slut I’m sure you wouldn’t care if anyone watches.” 

Kaveh’s walls clench around him as he lets out a whimper. Alhaitham groans harshly. “You’re so fucking tight.” 

He pulls one of Kaveh’s arms back and pins his shoulder against the desk with the other to angle his thrusts better. “Oh, ah… yes, please.” Kaveh moans as he reaches for his cock. Alhaitham harshly tugs at his arm making his back arch in a slightly straining angle. 

“Don’t touch yourself.”

Kaveh sobs as he clutches at the edge of the desk once again. Alhaitham thrusts into him mercilessly until he’s spilling inside of him. Kaveh milks him through it as the other slows down. 

Kaveh whines pathetically, he badly wants to cum too. “Haitham please,” He begs.

Alhaitham pulls out, he eyes his seed spilling out of Kaveh’s hole. The blond’s knees were trembling, he hasn’t even moved from the way he’s slumped onto the desk. 

Alhaitham sits on his chair and urges the other to move. With a deep breath, Kaveh shakily pushes himself off of the desk before climbing onto his lap. “Do you want to come?” 

“Yes please,” Kaveh nods.

Alhaitham grabs a hold of his cock and starts stroking. Kaveh nuzzles his cheek against Alhaitham’s neck as he lets out a low hum. He reaches down and inserts two fingers in Kaveh again. 

“Relax, you’re close, right?” He asks.

Kaveh moans breathily as he rests more of his weight against his roommate. It isn’t difficult for him to find Kaveh’s sweet spot this time. It doesn’t take long until Kaveh is a squirming, whining mess on his lap. His moans were muffled against Alhaitham’s neck. 

Alhaitham should have known that having a naked and needy Kaveh on his lap while he’s fully clothed is a very huge turn on. 

“Haitham---I’m close,” his senior pants.

Alhaitham curls his fingers and pumps Kaveh’s cock a few more times until the other is spilling onto his hand. “All good?” Alhaitham asks. 

Kaveh dazedly looks up at him. Without any words, he leans forward and kisses Alhaitham through his orgasm. The acting Grand Sage is caught off guard at first but he responds to the kiss anyway. 

They don’t usually kiss after sex because it tends to be too… intimate. Then again, Kaveh might have been too fucked out to properly think at the moment. 

When they break apart, Alhaitham keeps his eyes on the other and when Kaveh meets his gaze, a look of realization appears on his face. 

His cheeks are flushed pink. “I… I got carried away,” He scoffs. “It’s your fault for being such a bully.” 

Alhaitham clicks his tongue. "You clearly enjoyed it." He reaches over his desk to take the handkerchief he was supposed to use a while ago and hands it to the architect. 

"Ah, right." Kaveh shakily gets off of his lap. "We should clean up so you can go back to work." 

The architect winces when he stands up. He glares at the other. "You just had to come inside me, huh? You dick." 

"You came here well aware of all the possible repercussions." Alhaitham says with a shrug. He grabs another cloth to clean himself up. He'll have to wash up as soon as he gets home. 

"You should use this," Kaveh hands him the bag carrying the clothes he packed up. "Surely, the Grand Sage shouldn't attend his morning meetings looking like quite a mess, should he?" He remarks. 

"What about you? You're an even bigger mess than I am." 

"My coat will cover it up, don't worry." He hastily grabs his coat. "I should go. The sooner I wash up, the better." 

"You're not going home just yet," Alhaitham says as he wipes the cloth over Kaveh's lower back. The blond shoves his hand away when he feels him playfully pinching his ass. 

"Why? Are you not done with me yet, oh dear Grand Sage?" He sarcastically asks. 

Alhaitham rolls his eyes. "I'm not going to let you walk out of this place alone while looking like that." He says. "It's very late, just come home with me later." 

"You're going to make me wait? Had I known, I wouldn't have pulled the trigger on my surprise just yet." Kaveh says with a laugh.

"Too late for that now," Alhaitham shakes his head in amusement. "Now at least get dressed before someone knocks on the door." 

Kaveh picks up his clothes on the floor first. He was about to pick up the underwear when Alhaitham beat him to it. He held out his hand to take it back but his roommate simply stuffed it in his pocket. 

"Hey, give me that back." He lightly kicks his shin. 

Alhaitham smirks. "Consider it as part of your punishment. I'm not letting you wear these again for now. I don't trust you." 

"You're annoying." Kaveh makes a face at him as he pulls on his pants. He sees Alhaitham leering at him because the pants perfectly show his perky ass. It won't matter later, the overcoat is long enough to cover him up. 

"Take off your shirt, it's dirty too." Alhaitham orders. 

"I don't have a spare." He whines. 

"It's why you have that." Alhaitham gestures towards the coat that Kaveh wore before taking off his own shirt and wearing the one Kaveh brought for him. 

It takes all of Kaveh's self-control to stop himself from ogling the acting Grand Sage. Archons… What was Alhaitham doing while he was gone on his last project? His muscles became even more defined. 

"Get a grip, Kaveh." He tells himself. 

"If someone from the Akademiya finds me suspicious and inspects me for my outfit, it's your fault." He huffs. 

"You have me. No one's going to question you as long as you're with me." Alhaitham assures. 

Kaveh nearly smiles but he bites his tongue to stop himself. Of course no one is going to question him when he’s with the Grand Sage. That’s all there is to that, he shouldn’t overthink. 

“By the way, are you serious about keeping my underwear in your pocket? What if you forget about it and pull it up instead of your quill while you’re in a meeting?” Kaveh asks with a snort. 

Alhaitham chuckles in amusement. “I’m not stupid.” 

“Yeah, you’re just a pervert.” Kaveh sticks his tongue out. “By the way, that feather you used. Wasn’t that mine?” 

“You left it in my bedroom one time,” Alhaitham says. “I thought I could put it to good use.” 

Kaveh somewhat feels comforted by the thought of Alhaitham using one of his accessories as something useful in his office. “I don’t think you should be using it again though. You know, after we…” He blushes. 

“You’ll have to give me another one then.” Alhaitham nonchalantly says. 

Kaveh looks at him. Why? Why would he need that? They’re just fooling around, right? There’s no need to keep each other’s stuff. 

“Are you going back to your paperwork now?” Kaveh swiftly changes the subject after a few moments of silence. He takes a seat at the edge of the desk but he ends up grimacing. Alhaitham doesn’t make a comment but instead, he stands up and gently pulls Kaveh to sit on his much more comfortable office chair. The architect nearly blushes at the gesture.

“I should but there’s still ample time.” Alhaitham responds. “I should take you home first.” 

Kaveh looks at him with concern. “I can wait here, won’t it be more exhausting for you? You should use the time to rest here.” 

“I’ll catch up on sleep once the case in Port Ormos is over, I swear.” He promises. 

“You better do it because if you still don’t come home right after that case, I will march down here with an even more obnoxious plan.” He lightly threatens. 

“Does it get crazier than this?” Alhaitham huffs. “What will you do next? Come in here with a long coat with nothing underneath?” 

A thoughtful look crosses Kaveh’s face and Alhaitham immediately takes it back. “No, don’t do that. You could get arrested for public indecency.” 

Kaveh flirtatiously smiles at him. “I’m sure the Grand Sage would punish me accordingly.” He teases as he once again rubs his foot dangerously close to Alhaitham’s crotch.

Alhaitham grabs him by his ankle before pulling him close along with the chair. “You are insatiable.” He whispers.

“Your fault.” He retorts. 

“No worries, I’ll make it up to you.” He says. 

Comfortable silence passes by. Kaveh doesn't know how to react to that. They don't 'make it up' to each other. What they have is simply supposed to be for pleasure and nothing else. 

In the midst of the frenzy in Kaveh's mind, he suddenly feels Alhaitham's lips pressing against his. They don’t do this either. Kaveh kissing him in the heat of the moment was one thing but this is also something entirely unexpected especially for Alhaitham. 

“He is probably exhausted.” Kaveh thinks. “ I am too,” he foolishly assures himself before kissing the other back languidly. Alhaitham rests his knee on the chair while he cradles Kaveh’s jaw with one hand. Their tongues are pressed against each other, there’s a lot of lip biting and licking involved. It’s addicting, it’s perfect. 

When they both pull away, questioning crimson eyes meet teal ones. “Did you… get carried away too?” The architect hesitantly asks. 

Alhaitham looks as calculating as ever. He’s expecting a smart retort, a rebuttal that will make him feel stupid for even letting his mind wander onto different things but instead, the acting Grand Sage’s gaze softens. 

“No,” He replies as if it’s the most obvious thing. 

Kaveh feels as if his brain has just short-circuited. “Wait, what do you even---” Alhaitham cuts him off by kissing him again and Kaveh, weak as ever, kisses back. 

A loud knock on the door is what made Kaveh jump on his seat, Alhaitham keeps him in place to continue kissing him. 

They hear a knock once again and this time, Kaveh pushes his roommate’s chest. Alhaitham pulls away with  an annoyed expression on his face. 

“What is it?” He grunts. 

“There are some documents that are due tomorrow that have to be signed.” Kaveh recognizes the voice, it’s Viraf, he’s part of the Haravatat like Alhaitham.

The acting Grand Sage palms his face in annoyance. “Do you know what time it is?” 

“I’m so sorry! I overlooked it with some other documents and didn’t realize it until I was organizing them just now. My apologies, this won’t happen again!” the scholar flippantly says. 

Alhaitham could ignore him and let him suffer the consequences of his actions. After all, they know he’s not one to work past working hours. The past days just happen to be an exemption due to his promotion. 

“Just sign the documents,” Kaveh tells him. “It’s an honest mistake, we’ve all made mistakes like that before.” 

“Well, I haven’t.” The architect rolls his eyes at the response. “Just this once.” 

Alhaitham opens the door and Viraf steps in, he halts when he realizes Kaveh’s presence in the room. “I-I’m sorry, I didn’t know you had company.” 

“It’s a quick meeting,” Alhaitham brushes him off. “The documents?” He reaches his hand out. 

Viraf quickly hands him the documents. Alhaitham unclasps the scroll and skims through it. Viraf is left standing awkwardly in one corner of the room as he fiddles with his fingers. Kaveh notices the other stealing glances at him which causes his face to flush. He knows how suspicious he looks right now to be caught inside the Grand Sage’s office at this hour. 

“Next time, you may leave the documents in my office with a note if you need them urgently.” Alhaitham breaks the silence as he returns the signed document. 

“I’m really sorry, it won’t happen again. Thank you for your consideration.” Viraf says. 

“You’re dismissed,” Alhaitham tells him. 

Viraf bows. “Thank you, I’ll see you later.” His eyes fall onto Kaveh and he immediately blushes. “Y-you too Kaveh,” He nods before scrambling out of the office.

Kaveh raises an eyebrow as the scholar leaves the office. “Is he going to be alright? Do you think he suspects us?”

“You can tell that he has easily connected the dots based on that reaction alone.” Alhaitham replies. 

“Are you sure? Then is it alright to let him go just like that?” Kaveh worriedly asks. “What if we get reported?” 

“Who is he going to report it to? Me?” Alhaitham shrugs. “I’m sure he won’t tell anyone. I know Viraf, he was just flustered to see you like that.”

“Me? What do you mean?” 

“Do you not realize what kind of reputation you have? You’re the light of Kshahrewar, you never seemed to notice since you’re so dense but you’re quite popular amongst the scholars. And Viraf seeing you like that is bound to make him feel things.” 

Kaveh looks at him with a mix of confusion and hilarity. “I didn’t expect a feeble scholar such as you to be interested in gossip.” He says with a chuckle.  

“Gossip does not interest me at all, it just so happens that people are really drawn to you ever since our Akademiya days. It’s easy to find these things out especially when they do not shut up about you.” Alhaitham explains. 

“Well, I have to admit that is quite flattering.” Kaveh grins. “Though it really doesn’t mean much, I’m not after other people’s attention.” 

And yet, you pulled a ridiculous stunt like this to get Alhaitham’s attention. A snarky voice in his head says. 

“I know you’re not, you’re just after mine.” The other breezily says. 

Kaveh cannot trust himself to make a smart retort for that. “Haha, yeah sure.” He lamely says. 

Alhaitham doesn’t say anything after that. He arranges the things on his desk and makes sure his office is in order. “Is your overcoat on properly? Let’s go home.” 

“Yeah, all good.” He replies as he tucks his hair back. 

They leave Alhaitham’s office together. He informs a researcher that he will be out for a few hours. They come across Cyno and Tighnari at the lobby as they were leaving. 

“I thought you’ll be staying in the dorms?” Kaveh asks. 

“We just went out for a midnight snack and a walk, it’s quite relaxing.” Tighnari replies. “It’s good to finally see you outside your office, Grand Sage.” 

Alhaitham grunts at the title. “I’ll be back in time for the meeting this morning.” 

Kaveh doesn’t exactly know what he looks like right now but based on the amused look on Tighnari’s face and the knowing smirk on Cyno’s lips, he probably looks like a hot mess. 

He tries his best to avoid eye contact and does his best to not look like he’s limping as Alhaitham leads him away from the two. 

“Take your time, Grand Sage!” Cyno yells out as they leave. 

“Was it that obvious?” Kaveh asks once they were out of earshot. “I thought only Viraf would catch on.” He says as he pulls on his overcoat. 

“You got me to get out of my office, that alone is a sign that you got me to relax a bit.” Alhaitham says with a soft laugh. “It’s not a big deal, Tighnari and Cyno have been begging me to get some air.” 

Kaveh groans in embarrassment. “Remind me to not drop by your office for a while.” 

When they arrived in their shared apartment, Kaveh wanted to jump into the bed and sleep but Alhaitham made sure to pull him into the bathroom for a quick shower first. After washing up, Kaveh puts on one of his bigger shirts before throwing himself on the bed---Alhaitham’s bed, his room is closer to the bathroom.

Alhaitham watches him in amusement before grabbing a fresh change of clothes. “Now you’re exhausted.” He teases. 

Kaveh yawns and rolls onto his stomach as he watches his roommate. “You drained the energy out of me.” He drawls. 

Alhaitham fixes his hair before glancing at the clock, it’s only 3AM so Kaveh can still get enough sleep. “Hey’ I’ll be going back to the office.” 

Kaveh clings onto his arm. “You’re not going to stay for a while?” He mumbles.

“I have paperwork to get back to, I’m sure you’re aware of that.” 

“Mmmhmm… fine, will you be back tonight though?” He frowns.

Alhaitham pats Kaveh’s still damp hair. “I’ll be back once we settle the case at Port Ormos. It won’t take too long.” 

“You better be home tonight or else,” Kaveh manages to threaten despite feeling sleepy. 

“Or else what? You’ll seduce me again?” 

Kaveh doesn’t get to respond because he has already fallen asleep. Alhaitham smiles to himself and gives Kaveh one last gentle kiss on the forehead before getting ready to leave. 

Kaveh wakes up when the harsh ray of sunlight slipped past the curtains in the bedroom. He checks the time and it’s 7AM, Alhaitham’s meeting must have started already. 

He didn’t get to see the other off because he was too exhausted. He recalls whining at the other to be home tonight.

“Ugh, that sounded so clingy.” He groans. “We’re not lovers.” He rolls off the bed and heads to the bathroom to wash his face and brush his teeth.

As soon as he’s done freshening up, he looks at his reflection in the mirror. His hair is a mess since he sleeped with damp hair without brushing it, he sees the new marks on his neck, and his lips are swollen.

He brushes his thumb against his bottom lip, he recalls the kisses they shared after they had sex. They don’t do that, they never did until last night. 

Kaveh has an excuse, although it sounds pathetic. He said he got carried away, but Alhaitham said he didn’t and it’s frustrating because Kaveh can never read what’s on his mind. 

“It’s just a kiss,” Kaveh says to convince himself.

He leaves the bathroom and he returns to Alhaitham’s bedroom to make the bed. As he’s uncrumpling the sheets, he suddenly recalls Alhaitham giving him a quick kiss on the forehead before leaving. He was not fully asleep yet during that time and he’s sure he did not hallucinate that. 

Kaveh feels like an idiot for overthinking but who wouldn’t? He’ll have to talk to Alhaitham about this once he comes home. 

Despite the constant distractions in his head, Kaveh is in a good mood the whole day. He walked around the city and had a meal in Puspa café. He is currently enjoying his meal when a familiar face walks in. 

“Senior Kaveh! You’re back!” Collei greets. 

“I told you that Kaveh is fine,” He tells her as he gestures for her to take a seat. “What brings you here?” 

“Master is in the city as well and there’s not much for me to do in the rainforest so I tagged along for a while. Though I am staying over at Nilou’s while he stays in the Akademiya dorms.” 

“Yeah they’ve all been busy. I really missed out on a lot while I was gone,” Kaveh says with a sigh. “So much has changed, I can’t believe Alhaitham is now the acting Grand Sage.” 

“Master said he barely comes out of his office, it must be hard for you as well.” 

“Hard for me?” Kaveh asks as he takes a sip of the juice he ordered.

Collei innocently blinks at him. “Yes, you’ve been away from him because of your expedition and now it’s harder to spend time together since he’s appointed  as the Grand Sage. Anyone who’s been separated from someone they love for that long is bound to have a difficult time.” She says. 

Kaveh chokes on his drink. Collie and the rest of the people in the cafe all give him concerned stares. He waves his hand as he clears his throat. 

“We--we’re not lovers!” He sputters. 

“You’re not?” 

“No, we’re just living together due to some circumstances.” 

Collei blushes in embarrassment. “Oh no, I’m so sorry. I’ve always thought that you two were together. It’s just that… you talk about each other a lot.”

“We talk about each other a lot because we get on each other’s nerves a lot.” Kaveh explains. 

“It’s just that…” The forest ranger fiddles with her fingers. “Despite how annoyed you look, you just sound so fond at times and it’s the way you both look at each other.”

Kaveh doesn’t respond to that. 

“Anyway, I’m sorry! It’s my fault for jumping to conclusions, I’m still too young to understand relationships between adults, I shouldn’t have brought it up.” She apologizes. 

He lightly shakes his head and forces out a smile. “Don’t worry about it. Anyway, would you like to eat something? My treat.” He changes the subject. 

Collei accepts the offer and thankfully, Kaveh just got paid by his client so he doesn’t have to tell the owner to add it to Alhaitham’s tab. 

They caught up on other things happening around Sumeru while he was gone and they didn't bring up Alhaitham again. Once they were done with their meal, they bid farewell. 

Kaveh is left walking around aimlessly in the city for the rest of the afternoon to clear his head. 

Lovers? Collei thought they were lovers because of the way he talks about him and the way he looks at him? 

Sure, Kaveh does overthink a lot about what they really are because the lines have been very blurred ever since they crossed it.  He has had thoughts, he felt a lot of things but he always brushes those thoughts aside because he doesn't know how Alhaitham would take it. 

“Is this case really more important than the limited time you can spend with me?”

"If you miss me, you can just say so." 

Kaveh feels his chest tightening as he recalls their exchange of words. He feels his heart fluttering when he remembers how Alhaitham kissed him. 

"Archons… fuck," He exhales. 

He checks the time, it’s a few minutes past five. If Alhaitham has settled everything like he promised to, he has probably clocked out of work already. 

He needs to talk to him. 

It’s like his feet automatically move on their own. He starts running as fast as he can. He’s halfway through the uphill road towards the Akademiya when a hand grabs his wrist and he feels his body crashing against another. 

“Ha-haitham?!” He gasps.

“What’s the rush?” The other asks, calm as ever. 

“Y-you’re out of work.” Kaveh says in between pants. “I was just on my way to see you.” 

“I promised I’d be done with work, didn’t I?” Alhaitham says. “I was on my way to see you too.” 

“But that’s the thing!” Kaveh says. “We don’t really  promise each other anything, right? You are not obligated to come home because I told you to. You’ve been so… so confusing!” he rambles. 

“Kaveh,”

“And it sucks because you’re so calm and collected about everything. I feel so stupid for being the only one with conflicted feelings like this, it isn’t fair.” It was like word vomit, he couldn’t stop. “You’re always so rational about everything while I’m here making a fool of myself because of you and I still can’t help it.” 

“Kaveh,” 

“Stop calling my name like that, stop looking at me like that if you’re just going to confuse me even more." He clutches his hand over his chest as his voice gets more shaky. "I don't understand why--" 

His non-stop rambling is stopped when he suddenly feels Alhaitham's lips pressed against his. 

It feels as if the whole city of Sumeru has stopped. Kaveh couldn’t see, hear, or think of anything else. All he can do is feel Alhaitham kissing him. The younger of the two pulls away after a few seconds and Kaveh feels his knees weakening when their gazes meet. 

Collei said it’s the way they looked at each other. Is this what she meant? Is it this look? 

“How long are you going to gawk at me? Don’t you have anything to say after that?” Alhaitham finally asks. 

Kaveh is sure that even Alhaitham can hear the gears in his head turning with the way he’s responding right now. The acting Grand Sage looks at him with mild amusement and doesn’t rush him. 

“Archons…” Kaveh rubs his palms against his face. “I… I did miss you. I went through all that trouble last night because I wanted an excuse to see you, to be with you… I…” He bites back a sob. “I think I love you.” 

He sees a hint of a smile lingering on Alhaitham’s lips. “You think?” He repeats. 

Kaveh’s brows furrowed in confusion. “Can you please take this seriously! I’m pouring my heart out here!” He exclaims. 

Alhaitham looks around and sees a few scholars approaching. “As much as I’m enjoying this conversation, we need to continue this at home.” He gently grabs his wrist and leads him down on the walkway. 

Kaveh still feels like he’s in a daze as they’re walking their way back to their shared home. A couple of heads turn their way, they receive a few greetings too. It has always been like that whether it’s them arguing or Alhaitham dragging a drunk Kaveh home, with the way Kaveh looks the people around them will probably assume the latter. 

Once they are home and the doors are locked, Kaveh immediately grabs Alhaitham by his arms. “Okay, now can you tell me what’s going on?! I just told you that I love you.” 

“You said you think you love me.” 

“Don’t act smart with me now!” He points a finger at him. “Don’t you have anything to say to me after that?” 

“Do you think there’s anything else to say? I was the one that kissed you. I’m just waiting for you to put the pieces together.” He retorts. 

Kaveh’s jaw drops. “Y-you?!” Alhaitham shrugs. “Then why do you have to be so vague about it?!” 

“I didn’t want to act on it unless I was sure about how you felt too.” Alhaitham answers. “Didn’t want to scare you off,”

“And you were able to confirm it because we… had sex?” 

“As much as you want to deny it, you wouldn’t do all that if sex was all you’re after,” he points out. “There’s also that kiss. I don’t even know why it took you so long to figure it out.” 

“What if I never figured it out? Were you just planning on being vague and confusing until I connect the dots?” 

Alhaitham rolls his eyes and sighs. “Kaveh, I love you. You’re dense but you’re not that stupid.” 

Kaveh should be offended by that but he feels his cheeks heating up. Curse Alhaitham and his ability to reduce Kaveh into a mess, both literally and figuratively. 

“You’re so frustrating, I hate you so much.” He groans. 

Alhaitham smirks. “Try again,” 

Kaveh snarls at him but he couldn’t control the fond smile that graces his lips. “I love you too,” 

Alhaitham pulls him close until his face is buried on the nook of his neck. It’s a very comforting feeling. For once, he doesn’t have to overthink anymore. He just feels so content and it’s a feeling he could get used to. 

“Does this mean I’m dating the Acting Grand Sage?” Kaveh asks. 

“Yeah but that doesn’t mean all proposals from the Kshahrewar will be approved easily.” Alhaitham retorts. 

Kaveh lightly hits him on his chest. “By the way, is this going to be a secret between us?” 

“Everyone else thinks we are already dating so I don’t think it really makes a difference.” 

Kaveh pulls away from him. “Say what now?” 

“Why do you think Cyno and Tighnari were asking you to check on me while I was so busy working? Did you really think it’s just because we’re roommates?” 

Kaveh scratches his head in confusion. It’s all making sense to him now, no wonder Collei made assumptions like that as well. Him and Alhaitham being lovers just made sense to almost everyone else around them, he just happens to be the last one to realize that. 

“Wow…” He scoffs in amusement. “You know you could have just told me how you felt and saved us a lot of time.” 

“And where’s the fun in that?” Alhaitham says with a shrug. 

Kaveh takes his hand and intertwines their fingers together. “Well…” He gives his boyfriend a quick peck on the lips. “We have a lot to catch up on.”