[ He's not busy, he's not! but what that entails in this case is trying on some of the garments he and Xie Lian purchased the other day, and right now he happens to be clad in naught but the delightful teal ensemble that (although Kaveh is ignorant of this fact) reminded the young god of Alhaitham's eyes.
So he abandons his watch and rushes across his suite to grab up some clothes, pulling on the first thing he can find. Alhaitham can't be that far away, after all; the resort isn't that big. ]
[ And only once he's sufficiently clothed, wearing a pair of black pants and a casual baby pink shirt, does he finally return to his watch to send a final message: ]
[ Kaveh can threaten all he likes, will threaten all he likes, but does Alhaitham genuinely believe the other man would actually lock him out? It's not going to happen, and he's sure they both know that.
[Alhaitham does not believe that, which is why he's still on his way despite their customary bickering. He doesn't respond to the last message but when he arrives at the door several minutes later, he does at least knock before he turns the handle and walks in.
He's carrying a bag in one hand which he immediately hands off to Kaveh without a word as to what is in it. Inside the older man would find a box containing a few different soft cheeses, a sealed container of fresh soft fruits with a separate pot of cream, some crackers, and a small bottle of sweet wine.]
They were selling these in the shopping complex.
[No comment given to the fact this was obviously picked out specifically for Kaveh with no thought to himself. Alhaitham, after all, does not lean towards any fuss about his food.]
[ He's sitting at the small table in his suite when there's a knock on the door, and despite the irritation in his texts, there's a smile on his lips by the time he stands up. He's ready to let Alhaitham in, but the other remembered what he said and just slips inside after knocking,
and the present, he realizes immediately, is good, eyes widening at the basket full of treats. ]
...That's really kind of you, Haitham. Thank you.
[ In the fact of such kindness, the old nickname slips out, and he looks up at the other with a small smile. Cheese and fruits aren't exactly the younger's thing, but... ]
Did you wanna share them with me?
[ As he talks, though, his eyes settle properly on the other man, and he can't help but notice the clothing he's wearing. Something new, to match with the gift basket he's brought with him. He looks good. And if he's got money, it means he's playing the game, looking after himself in all the important ways...
(Kaveh hates the odd feeling of jealousy that spikes in his gut.) ]
[Despite how he had rebuffed the nickname when Kaveh had first used it in this place he does not do so now, only glancing at him briefly before apparently just letting it slide.
Alhaitham is definitely playing the game. Not to the extent that many others are but enough to be able to afford to treat himself a little even while he maintains the low rank that allows him the lack of social distinction that he prefers. The dark grey slacks, smart shoes and black shirt open at the collar paired with a deep green, fitted waistcoat are all new, perhaps even bought that day, and Alhaitham wears the ensemble as if he has no idea how good it makes him look.]
Sure.
[He takes a seat, as comfortable as if this is his own place, and watches Kaveh examine the contents of the box. Alhaitham knows how the older man is with not taking proper care of himself even when he has the money to do so...]
Have as much as you want before you share any with me.
[ Alhaitham does indeed wear his clothes as if he has no idea how good he looks wearing themβ and Kaveh understands him well enough to know that he really, really doesn't know.
So, even as he accepts the box and sets about putting it on the kitchenette counter, opening it up and putting the cheeses and fruits on a large plate with some crackers, muttering something about "nonsense, we'll share" in response to the younger's words, he watches him quietly for a moment, and he thinks...
Well, one good turn deserves another, no?
Kaveh places the platter down on the little coffee table and the wine next to it with a pair of glasses, making sure it's in perfect reach of both of them before taking a seat on the sofa and smiling up at the other. ]
[As is Alhaitham's way, he didn't do this to get a favour in return. He rarely does anything transactionally, but he also understands Kaveh, and he knows that the architect will probably want to do something nice for him in return when Alhaitham so obviously went out of his way to get something that he wouldn't ordinarily even look at.
He waits, quite deliberately, until Kaveh picks something up off the platter first but he does acknowledge the compliment with a small incline of his head.]
Mm. Thanks.
[And then he tilts his head very slightly to one side, then the other, removing the earbuds that were tucked inside his ears and stowing them away in his pocket.]
[ Of course Kaveh will find a way to do something for Alhaitham in return, even though he knows the other well enough to understand (deep down, at least) that his motives aren't what other people's might be. This is just the relationship they've always had, isn't it? Alhaitham does something nice, Kaveh convinces himself that the younger is a transactional sort of person and will therefore expect something in return. Like rent, or an obscene amount of chores, or...
He's lost in his own thoughts when the other man suddenly says he'd like to talk, and Kaveh's brain screeches to a halt faster than a sumpter beast drawn by the scent of a sweet flower. Now playing: kavehbrain.mp4.
A breath, and he inclines his head, looking at the other quietly.
[It's how Kaveh is, and Alhaitham tolerates his sense of obligation by allowing him to believe that the things being asked of him are being asked as a repayment, not because Alhaitham knows that Kaveh will drive himself mad if he has to accept things with no expectation of debt.
And he realises that the other man will immediately be on alert thanks to what he said... which is why he did not say it in a text, and he does not linger on drawing it out any further.]
I am assuming that, at the moment, you are sober and free of any aphrodisiac influences including any caused by your suit. [His voice is even and level, as calm as if he's reading off an academic paper.] I'm currently in the same state, and given the circumstances we have had to endure so far each time we've been intimate with each other, I propose that we take advantage of both being in our right minds and not under any kind of undue stress or pressure to perform.
[And that's probably not clear enough, so he adds, quite bluntly.]
[ Kaveh doesn't realize that anxiety has done so much as to lead him to stop chewing, a morsel of cheese remaining bitten between closed lips as Alhaitham talks, and yet still longer as his eyes widen in shock. Is the other man saying what he thinks he's saying?
Of course he is. Logic dictates as much. Alhaitham never says anything he doesn't mean. If the words are on his lips, they're genuine. Not to mention the nice clothing, the present... Archons preserve him, he's being wooedβ
The thought barely makes it through his mind before the younger man declares himself once more, this time in much more succinct language, and this time the cheese doesn't hold, drawn back into his airway in a sharp inhale, leaving him choking on it for a few seconds
(is there an award, he thinks, for the least sexy response to the least sexy proposition?)
He grabs for his glass, downing half of it in an effort to soothe the sudden burn in his throat. And if he stops halfway because of presence of mind, wanting to remain sober, well... ]
Archons. [ He looks up at Alhaitham, the bemusement written over his face. And perhaps it's just an effort to protect himself against the embarrassment of the moment, but he quips, voice little more than a snarky mutter: ] What happened to letting Teyvat burn, huh?
More or less what he expected, really. The verbal response makes his eyebrows lift, one quirked slightly higher than the other.]
I think that particular ship has long since sailed, don't you?
[Within some minutes of him even uttering the words, in fact, and he resists the urge to roll his eyes that Kaveh would bring it up now, when they are already intimately familiar with one another in ways Alhaitham would never have anticipated, as if it's some kind of gotcha moment.]
If you're not interested, then just say so. We can just as easily wait until the next time the resort's machinations conspire to force us together.
[ His answer is soft, perhaps a little too hot on the heels of "if you're not interested" for Kaveh to feel comfortable with it now and later. He straightens his shoulders and takes a deep breath, looking up at the other man with a small smile. ]
No, I... I'd like that. Now, not.. not next time the resort decides it's a good idea.
[ After all, Alhaitham is nothing but truthful. Their first time together was Kaveh worrying about his junior's existence here. Then the moments after that party, where Alhaitham lost control. Then the time in the spa, with his control at a hair's width. This is for all intents and purposes a good idea, and...
And he likes the idea.
He just... never would have imagined Alhaitham would be the one to suggest it. ]
[The last thing he wants is for it to feel like another obligation. For Kaveh to agree because he feels like he should, even if it's just because Alhaitham asked. The two of them sleeping together isn't necessary for the game at this point, really, and so they really would only be doing it either because they were being somehow manipulated into it or... because they wanted to.
It's not really something Alhaitham has ever thought about before. Sex has never been a consideration of his and even on finding it to be physically enjoyable, that hadn't changed much. With Kaveh, though, it's different. Somehow, it's different. The fumbling agreement to his proposition plants a faint smile against one corner of his mouth.]
All right.
[It isn't as if he thought he'd be the one suggesting it either... but they'd be waiting for months if he left it to Kaveh to bring it up.]
[ He sees the smile tugging at the corner of Alhaitham's mouth, and he hates it. Whether it's smugness in response to Kaveh's eventual agreement, or amusement at the blonde's staggering and stumbling over the words, he hates it because it all comes right back to that one thing: he's the elder of them, the more experienced of them
(is that even true anymore?)
he should be the one feeling sure of himself and what he wants, but here they are, and yet again he feels like he's out of his depth with the other man, like somehow he's learned all the secrets there are to be discovered about this.
Swallowing, he shakes his head, offering the other a slight smile. ]
[Alhaitham had a feeling that would be the answer. He nods in acknowledgement then shifts, pushing himself up to his feet because having sex on the couch was not what he had in mind when he asked. He offers Kaveh a hand up then lightly tugs the older man towards him, planting his free hand against a slender hip and bringing the other up to cup his jaw line.]
All right, then.
[It's different with nothing pushing them. No wild, uncontrollable urges or the weighty sense of necessity. Kaveh is close enough to him that he can see the individual flecks of colour in the architect's eyes and for a moment he lingers there, taking in the sight, before that little smile twitches at his lips again.
All right, then.
He kisses Kaveh softly, warmly, more experienced now than he was the first time. His fingers splay wide against the small of the other man's back, palm pressing to the base of his spine, and only after a few seconds have passed does he even attempt to deepen the kiss to something more.
Though he can taste the wine on Kaveh's tongue it isn't unpleasant at all. He keeps him held in close, taking soft and measured breaths each time they part for a snatch of air.]
[ Kaveh hasn't even begun to guess at what Alhaitham's plan might be. Truth be told, he's still reeling from the suggestion that they have sex. His hand lifts, accepting that offered to him with a smile, and he's silent for a moment as he's tugged to his feet, as the scribe's eyes search his in the moment or two before he's kissed, soft and warm andβ
Oh, Kaveh realizes, he's had practice.
In the moment, though, such a realization doesn't sting the way it would have just seconds before, when those lips weren't already on his, kissing away the frustrations and the strange, unfamiliar bolts of jealousy. His own arms move to circle Alhaitham's waist, holding him comfortably close as he sighs into his mouth, answering the deepened kiss with his own. The younger man is better at this than he was at the start, the strong softness of his hand somehow enough to ground Kaveh in the moment, chase away all the discomfort and unpleasantness that was trying to clamber all over his brain just moments before.
In fact, his thoughts are so shattered off and scattered to the winds that he's forgotten even the pretty, lacy lingerie he wears under his clothes, victims of being tried on when he had an unexpected visitor suddenly announce himself. His focus is on Alhaitham and Alhaitham alone, on the delightful taste of the other's mouth on his, the sensation of those fingers at his sides. ]
[Absent of any sudden, overwhelming arousal, Alhaitham is able to take in the other sensations that arise when he has the other man in his arms. Kaveh is warm and firm against him, the shape of his body under his clothes just obvious enough to be tantalising, and as the kissing deepens and he draws the architect in close to him he feels his mind settle into it rather than spinning in wild circles around uncontrollable desire.
It feels more normal. More like him, for as much as acts like these can feel like him when he had only recently begun to give them any consideration at all.
When they finally draw apart Alhaitham pulls in a quick breath then takes Kaveh by the hand, tugging him lightly over to his bed. He sits, slides his hands down the backs of Kaveh's thighs to the bends of his knees, then eases the older man forwards onto his lap.
Alhaitham looks up at him with something that could almost be called curiosity.]
[ They could do this a hundred times, and Kaveh still doesn't think he'd be able to adjust to how gentle and kind Alhaitham is. Even as the kiss deepens, as he's drawn closer into the other man's arms, each movement is acted on in such a way that it has a tremble of delight down the blonde's spine and his heart fluttering in his chest.
And that's so ridiculous, he thinks. This is Alhaitham, whom he's known for so many years that he should no longer be capable of being surprised by himβ
(Although as a scholar, Kaveh is confident that the resort and its machinations would be considered an unpredictable outlier.)
He shakes the thoughts from his head though when the younger man's fingers tighten on his to draw him to the bed, when fingers curve at his thighs to tug him into a waiting lap, and the question on Alhaitham's lips have him almost bemused for a moment, a tilt of his head as he looks at the other man, reaches up to run fingers down the side of that sharp jaw. ]
You don't have to check on me. [ Because he likes it when he does, and that's dangerous. ] I promise I'll tell you if I don't want something.
[At those words, Alhaitham studies Kaveh for a few long, quiet moments. There's a hint of disbelief built on the lingering knowledge of what Kaveh has allowed him to do before (even if this is not like that, not even a little), but rather than argue he just gives a small, curt nod.]
I will hold you to that.
[Since he promised, and all.
Alhaitham huffs a soft breath out as his hands push slowly up Kaveh's thighs from his knees to his hips, faint pressure in the grip as they slide along the fabric of his pants before the scribe's long fingers spread against the older man's ass and pull him close enough to fit their bodies snugly together.
He could ask Kaveh what he likes but he thinks he already has a good idea even through their somewhat tumultuous sexual relationship so far. His thumbs press slightly along the lines of his partner's hipbones as he pauses, considering his next move.
Though this position does not lend itself to easy access to anything further, he finds it oddly appealing. Alhaitham moves one hand up, curling his forefinger beneath Kaveh's chin and using that light, simple contact to guide him down into another kiss.]
[ When it comes down to it, Kaveh knows that he's made mistakes before. For one, there were much, much better ways to approach this whole thing between the two of them. And when Alhaitham pushed them both into his room and took control of things in a way too far from who Alhaitham is as a person, he could have said something then too, and he didn't.
But Kaveh remembers the shattered look on the younger man's face, hears the quiet sounds of his guilt in the moments after, and he knows he can't do that againβ when he promises, he means it, and he'll hold the both of them to it.
Not that he has to, right now, because he wants this. There's a sigh on his lips at the press against his hipbones, at the feeling of that curious hand tracing under his chin to nudge him into a kiss that makes his toes curl and his lips part in pleasure as he returns it with a soft sigh. His arms wind around the younger's shoulders, doing his part to draw him in nearer. This approach is newer to him than before, something that hasn't come between them before.
[It's been abrupt before. Even the first time, arguably the only time it has been fully consensual and free of any outside influence, they had simply got straight to the point of it. That isn't what Alhaitham wants out of this now and not why he came here, and even if he isn't entirely certain of how this is going to go he definitely wants to take his time.
Kaveh's arms wrap around him and their lips part against each other, and Alhaitham settles into the rush of pleasant goosebumps over his skin and the slow curl of warmth in the pit of his stomach. No need to rush at all.
It's nice.
A few minutes later, when the heat gathering in him has made its way up to his head and lightly fuzzed the edges of his thoughts, he pulls back to take a quick breath. He looks up at Kaveh with an unreadable emotion in his eyes as he finally slips both hands up beneath his top, sliding fabric against skin to push it off.]
[ Kaveh makes a soft, humming noise against Alhaitham's mouth as he settles more comfortably on his lap, presses closer, enjoys the slow build of pleasure between the two of them. It's unlike anything they've done together, and he likes it, enjoys the way that he can slowly withdraw his thoughts from the world around him, can pour them into Alhaitham and Alhaitham alone, slowly but surely letting himself sink into it.
It's nice, it's perfect, and when the younger man draws back for a breath, Kaveh's eyes flutter open, a slow smile forming on his lips at the look on the scribe's faceβ
and then hands slip under his top and in that very same moment, everything comes crashing down: Kaveh remembers what he's wearing under this, the change he should have made but did not, the feeling of lace and satin against his skin even as he recoils from those gentle hands. ]
W-wait! I. I, uh. I got dressed in a hurry, and there's...
[ Archons, this is embarrassing. The lingerie wasn't meant for Alhaitham, and deep down Kaveh knows the younger man probably won't form any sort of opinion on it, good or bad, but... ]
I'm wearing something kind of unusual under this, and I didn't have time to change out of it so.. do you want me to just.. I can go change now...?
[Though a little startled by Kaveh's sudden withdrawal he notices quickly that it isn't due to something that he did. His hands lower back to the other man's hips as he fumbles to explain himself and given the kinds of things available to buy here it doesn't take much for Alhaitham to figure out what 'wearing something kind of unusual under this' could mean.
And Kaveh is right - he doesn't really have an opinion on it either way.]
You can do whatever makes you comfortable.
[The meaning is clear enough. It wouldn't be for Alhaitham's comfort that Kaveh gets up and changes, but the younger man is quite willing to let him up without protest if he wants to go and do it anyway. He isn't trying to keep him from getting up despite his hands still resting on him.]
[ It's fine if you want to change, Alhaitham says, making his own opinion clearβ and Kaveh, to his credit, listens for once. The other man is putting his comfort first, clearly doesn't mind whatever strange thing the elder is wearing, and so...
He takes a deep breath, leans forward to press a soft kiss into the younger man's mouth, then something slower and deeper as he breathes into it, allows himself to relax. ]
I'm okay, [ he whispers. ] If you don't mind, then I don't mind either.
[Alhaitham just-barely smiles as he lifts his hands again, catching the fabric of Kaveh's top and pushing it up and off his head. His fingertips briefly trail against the soft skin of the inside of the older man's upper arms... and then lightly against the lace all but clinging to his ribs.
He told Kaveh that he does not experience physical attraction like most people and that remains true in spite of his apparent interest in sex itself. His judgement of attractiveness is a matter of aesthetics, as ever, and his attention lingers on the lingerie for a few moments.]
Colour theory? [The scribe murmurs, glancing up to meet Kaveh's eyes.] Complementary. [Then, after another quiet pause.] You would suit red, too.
[ Mean it though he may, Kaveh is still a little anxious as Alhaitham moves to push his shirt up and over his head, caught somewhere between expecting no reaction, not wanting one anyway, and also somehow wanting one. The brush of those fingers, at the very least, is proof that the younger man isn't repulsed by the concept, and so he's able to stay quiet as Alhaitham looks at the lingerie, turning his attention back to Kaveh to mention color theory, andβ ]
I... I actually have a similar pair in red, too. [ The admission comes somewhat bashfully, paired with the barest beginnings of a heated flush across his cheeks in response to the younger's complimentary words. ] I chose the red ones first, and then got these too.
[ That latter point isn't entirely true. The teal ones were chosen for him, but he's not about to express as much in the middle of this moment between them. Kaveh may be honest, but he's learned his lesson there.
(And it's not like he owes Alhiatham an explanation anyway, so he's not sure why he feels like he does.) ]
[Alhaitham manages to look unsurprised. He studies Kaveh's face for a moment, his fingertips trailing along the bottom of the lace as if he is somehow appreciating it, then rather than take it off him... he leaves it.
Kaveh gets another kiss before he's tipped onto the bed, Alhaitham still fully dressed as he crawls over him and lowers his head to brush his lips to the centre of the older man's chest. Though he keeps his eyes lowered the fact that this particular shade of teal is very close to the colour of his irises has not escaped him in the least. Did Kaveh pick these too, he wonders idly, then just as quickly pushes that thought aside.
He sits up, gaze raking down the length of Kaveh's torso, warm fingertips brushing the soft skin of his stomach. The touch trails down the centre of the blond's abdomen to the dip of his navel then tracks along the waist of his pants. Alhaitham glances up, not verbally checking in on Kaveh but clearly doing it visually, but he seems satisfied by whatever he sees.]
Are you going to behave for me? [The young man says softly, his free hand working the buttons of his waistcoat open.] You can do that, can't you, Kaveh.
[ Most of Kaveh just assumes that the lace, now with a comment made about it, will be slipped off his body and pushed to the side. He's not expecting Alhaitham to leave it on him, but he does, tipping him to the bed instead after another kiss, eyes and mouth paying brief homage before hands track over his skin to explore, leaving the blonde breathing a heavy sigh over his lips.
And then he's asked is he going to behave, and the architect's blood runs dangerously south, and every last part of him wants to nod, wants to agree with the scribe's assertion, to bend to him, to be good so he can hear the other praise him the way he's come to realize he quite likes...
But he's also Alhaitham, gentle and tender or not, and there's that one part of Kaveh that won't allow this to pass without a challenge, a tilt of his head as he openly admires the younger undoing his own waistcoat. ]
Mm...
[ His voice is too dry. He clears his throat, licks his lips, tries again. ]
[He could go a while like this, he thinks, just exploring Kaveh's body with his fingertips and hearing the sounds he makes as he grows more frustrated with the lack of action. Alhaitham briefly wonders how much the older man would allow him to get away with, and it's partly that thought which prompts him to ask the man if he's going to behave... a kind of pointed flirtation that feels foreign on his lips.
The result is undeniable however.
He leaves the waistcoat on but unbuttoned and meets Kaveh's gaze at his response. The small muscles around his eyes pinch. Alhaitham leans down, bracing one elbow beside Kaveh's head and lightly taking hold of his chin with the other hand.
The scribe leans in like he's going to kiss him again but stops short.]
The barest hint of defiance finds him, a question on his lips, and suddenly Alhaitham is close, breath gusting over his lips like a promise Kaveh knows he won't allow himself to meet just yet, the blonde's chin captive in his hand as those emerald eyes meet his with something serious, some kind of...
Archons, he can't even tell. The only thing he knows for sure is that he should cave for now, agree to play a more obedient role.
And yet.
He licks his lips, considering, and a hint of a smile curves at the corners of his lips. ]
Mm, perhaps... I'm a scholar, after all. What kind of scholar doesn't take the chance to test the outcomes of behaving versus not? [ A hand lifts, skates along the side of Alhaitham's face as Kaveh chuckles softly. ] If anything, you should be admiring my dedication to academia.
What I find most astounding right now is that you still have enough breath to talk so much.
[Ah, and he should fix that, no?
Alhaitham does not give further time to trying to extract a spoken promise from Kaveh. It seems that the man has decided to be difficult... and Alhaitham can work with that. It's hardly different to how he behaves on a normal day, after all.
Rather than kiss his lips he pushes his head to one side and nips at his neck. The bite isn't hard, but certainly enough to leave a mark.
He works his way down after that. Kaveh's collar bones, the curve of his ribs. He teases the stiff nub of one nipple through lace with the pad of his thumb. Lower still to the soft, warm skin of his stomach and then he's sliding Kaveh's pants off, scraping his fingernails deliberately down the outsides of his thighs as he draws the fabric down.
What he finds under them is not a surprise. What does surprise him is that he's interested enough to take a moment to look.
Though only a moment. He shifts back up to take Kaveh's wrist and push them up over his head.]
Will you keep them here or do I need to restrain you?
[ The nip to Kaveh's neck makes the older man hiss out through his lips, and at least until his hands are captured and pushed over his head, his fingers thread through Alhaitham's hair, touching and exploring what he can easily reach as the other kisses his way down his neck, collar bones, ribs. Under the attention, he's quickly growing hard, and the single moment the younger takes to look at the rest of his underwear has him biting back a soft moan, a twitch of pleasure running through him, fingers tightening in his hair. ]
If you don't want me to have breath to talk, take it away.
[ Is it a challenge? Maybe, but one he very quickly reconsiders as his wrist is taken, both of them caught and pushed above his head.
Will you keep them hereβ?
And it would be so, so easy to say yes, to give in to him. But he remembers already: Alhaitham likes to take his time exploring, and Kavehβ Kaveh likes wants craves the praise but doesn't want to make it too easy for him either, andβ
(And there are other considerations too, things he's wanted to try out...)
He lifts his chin, a glint of a challenge in his eyes, and Kaveh immediately tugs a hand free of him so he can thread it around Alhaitham's neck in the attempt to pull him down into a kiss. ]
If you wanna be certain, [ he breathes, ] there are handcuffs in the top drawer.
[Alhaitham stiffens slightly, resisting the pull, though there's nothing in his expression to suggest that any kind of distress was the reason. This is how it's going to be then, is it? Well, he can't say he's not surprised.
He hums softly, shooing Kaveh's hands away from him before he moves to lean over and open the drawer, quickly locating and pulling the cuffs out. There wasn't so much as a moment of hesitation in making that decision, it seems, and this time when he pushes the older man's arms up it is with a little more determined force.
One side of the cuffs is gently slipped over a wrist, clicking closed around it. He loops the chain around the headrail of the bed and then meets the architect's eyes as he fully restrains him.]
As you wish.
[You chose this, Kaveh. He won't have any whining about sore wrists.
Once satisfied that the man is now held in place he sits back, raking his gaze down the length of Kaveh's body. He's...
Hm.
Alhaitham shrugs off his waistcoat, though only partly shifts his eyes away. Something about this is still faintly unsettling, though he can't put his finger on what it is that's bothering him.]
... If I do something you don't like, say so. [He says then, sliding a hand around the curve of Kaveh's waist.] Agreed?
[ For a moment, Kaveh regrets his choice. Not because he doesn't trust Alhaitham or want to do this with him, but because of the strange something in the air around the other man for a moment or two as he shrugs himself out of his waistcoatβ
(and Archons, the visible movement of muscle under the soft material of that shirt...)
βas he reminds the blonde to say something if he's not okay.
Mm... it's about that other time, isn't it?
If he could, he'd reach to reassure him, but he's just ensured that he absolutely cannot do that. Therein lies the regret, even as the thrill of being captive to him runs down his spine, and Kaveh offers Alhaitham a small, reassuring smile, a little jingle of his wrists against the headrail. ]
Do you know what a safeword is? [ he asks, and then without any hesitation continues to explain: ] It's a word we can choose that if either of us says, everything stops. It's designed for moments like these, because... [ He's brought momentarily to another encounter, one he won't detailβ he's learningβ but that taught him a few things nonetheless. ] Sometimes in the moment you say things like "wait" or "stop" or "no" but don't actually mean it. So...
[ He takes a breath, thinking. ] "Alcazarzaray." [ It's long, complicated, and there's no way he's gonna be calling it out in the middle of sex for any other reason. ] If I say "Alcazarzaray", it means I want you to stop. Okay?
[For the most part, Alhaitham is fine... but he would be lying if he said that he wasn't still at least a little shaken by that experience. It had lodged something in him that bothers him right down to his core and comes to the forefront of his mind when he's with Kaveh more than anyone else.
Because of course it would.
He listens, his eyes never leaving the other man's as he explains, and while he had not been aware of that concept in this context he catches on quickly and nods.]
All right. [And, satisfied with that, he leans in to give Kaveh another of those soft, lingering kisses. He can trust that Kaveh will speak up if he feels like he needs to, he thinks... they do have that understanding.
The contrast between them right now isn't lost on him. Kaveh in his flatteringly coloured lingerie and Alhaitham almost still entirely dressed. Alhaitham shifts down and tugs one of Kaveh's knees over his shoulder, pushing his knee up as he brushes a line of teasing kisses down the inside of the opposite thigh.]
You look good like this. [He murmurs then, almost thoughtfully.
[ Kaveh hums in soft content into Alhaitham's mouth, and if the scribe hears the gentle clink of the cuff metal against the headrail, it's only because the blonde's first instinct is the wrap his arms around the younger's shoulders and hold him as they kiss. For as much as the other man has a tendency to annoy him, there's something about the gentleness of his mouth that has Kaveh melting, craving more. More that he knows he's going to get, even if the presence of the handcuffs promises a slow burn, and plenty of frustration.
Frustration brought almost immediately by the way Alhaitham lifts his knee and starts to pepper kisses down the inside of his thigh, the blonde's hips trembling and trying to lift slightly under the sudden sensation. He whimpers,
and then comes the kicker, soft words that make his eyes widen, his breath catch in his throat. Heβ ]
...Really? I do?
[ His voice is soft, but edged with a surprising heaviness, eyes averted in a way that will tell Alhaitham (as if he doesn't already know) that Kaveh asks from a genuine place, not from one of greed or desire. He's not sure what he was expecting, but it wasn't that, and he hates the way his stomach does a stupid little flip-flop at the words, leaving his mouth dry. ]
[Alhaitham couldn't anticipate what that whimper does to him. He feels a spark shoot straight to the curling warmth between his hips and his breath catches, his eyes darting up and catching the other man's eyes. For a moment he forgets what he said - what Kaveh is questioning - then makes a soft sound of confirmation.]
Mm. You can wear the red one next time.
[There are several implications there, all of them bluntly obvious to someone who knows Alhaitham as well as Kaveh does, but delivered as ever with the quiet, casual tone of someone with barely any idea of the kind of impact that those particular words can have.
He likes how Kaveh looks like this, he realises. Like appreciating a piece of art wound together with the anticipation of what's to come.
Alhaitham sits back and unbuttons his shirt, taking his time, maintaining eye contact all the while. The mark of his suit is calm and pale now, barely visible, and once he sets the shirt aside he moves to his belt, lingering on the buckle.]
[ If Kaveh is going to regret his choice to accept the handcuffs, it's going to be now that he most keenly feels it, when Alhaitham says something that makes him want to throw his arms around the other to pull him into a kiss.
Regardless of how calmly the scribe speaks, so many things sit just under the surface of those words: not just the reaffirmation that he thinks Kaveh looks good, but the statement that he wants to see him in the other outfits he purchased; the implication of another next time; the instruction not to hide himself away.
All this, paired with the way he leans back, unbuttoning his shirt in the slowest, most torturous of ways, revealing the pale, toned skin underneath in a way that has Kaveh wetting his too-dry lips.
And Kaveh, who often has his words stolen in the face of the other man, finds himself in the same situation as always, but a much more pleasant version, a shy smile on his lips and a flush on his cheeks as he nods. ]
...Okay. I'll, uh.. keep that in mind. For next time.
[ And then, his smile turning more playful, he adds: ]
You should just dress like this. Shirt off, I mean.
[Alhaitham is not an exhibitionist and has no intentions of becoming one for the sake of Kaveh's whims, but if the man wants to see him shirtless while it's just the two of them..? He doesn't see the harm. Kaveh has already seen far more of him than his bare chest.
With his belt discarded and his trousers quickly following Alhaitham finally shifts closer to the other man and kisses him again, bare skin on bare skin as they press together. He slides one firm thigh up between Kaveh's legs, biting gently against the man's lower lip and then smiling a little.]
[ The pleasant heat in Kaveh's cheeks only intensifies at the promise of Alhaitham doing something just for him, just the two of them, in private like this. It's not something he really should take pleasure in, not with how contentious their friendship can sometimes be, and yet..
Mm. Who cares? The blonde's brain is quick to banish the thought when the younger man shifts out of his trousers and brings himself in close again to kiss him, eagerly returning the pressure of his lipsβ and gasping an answer when his lip is bitten at the same time as a knee slides up between his thighs.
That smileβ
And those words, asking a question Kaveh's not entirely sure he can answer, because...
On one side, perhaps, he's still learning these things for himself in some ways, and too hesitant to say what it is he's wanting to try. The reverse of that is that his body seems to like everything Alhaitham does anyway, so.
Alhaitham's eyebrows lift slightly. He does wonder on which occasion Kaveh has ever actually heard him outright laugh at anything he said, though he does realise that the other man may not actually mean it literally. He makes a soft sound, shifting away and straightening up a little.]
I promise I won't laugh.
[And maybe those words, that phrasing, would sound a bit strange coming from him... but it seems to be important, and even more strangely, he finds that it is important for him to know the answer.]
[ It is perhaps a silly request. Kaveh knows, deep down, that Alhaitham will never laugh at him. It's just not who he is as a person, not whom he has ever been. But the anxiety runs high in his veins regardlessβ and that's the person Kaveh has always beenβ and so he still stumbles over it, still hesitates over the words even as he's given the promise. ]
I... like it whenβ um. I guess I like praise. Nice things being said to me.
[ His eyes shift to the side, cheeks heating with fresh embarrassment. ]
I also like it when I don't have to think. [ A pause as, not for the first time, he amends that to be more honest: ] When I'm not able to think.
[ He knows that saying all of this is giving Alhaitham a lot of power, but... he asked. ]
[There isn't so much as a single glimmer of surprise on Alhaitham's face as Kaveh speaks. What he knows of the man makes it all to obvious that praise would be something he would enjoy, though it would seem he has less issue with accepting it when it happens in the bedroom.
... Figures.]
You know well enough that I'm not someone who gives false praise.
[Or much praise at all, usually. He doesn't think he could do it under these circumstances without it feeling far too awkward, but as luck would have it when it comes to Kaveh, he doesn't really find a need to pretend.
He pauses a moment, letting his attention travel over Kaveh's body.]
So when I tell you that I like how you look, you know I mean it.
[ The answer is quick on Kaveh's lips, and as soft as his expression as his eyes settle on Alhaitham's face again. It's true that he has less issue accepting praise when it's in the bedroom, and yet even with that being true, and even knowing what he does, was he not still hesitant over the other's statement that he looks good as he is now?
And he wonders if the younger man thinks Kaveh doesn't trust him. Which isn't trueβ ]
If I sound like I'm doubting you, I'm.. I'm not. Not you. I just... You know how I am, it'sβ
[ He falls silent for a moment, and the look he offers the other man is soft and pleading and frustrated, not at the situation but at himself. ]
[And he does, doesn't he? He knows how Kaveh is. All the difficult, complicated facets of his personality, the way he responds to situations, how he acts when faced with a challenge. He knows Kaveh inside and out and not only because of how long they have been acquainted or because they have lived together but because Kaveh, for Alhaitham, is easy to read.
He slides a hand up one of Kaveh's arms as he kisses him again. His fingertips press across the man's palm, then their fingers lace together as he presses that hand gently against the pillows.
Alhaitham's lips part, as if he's going to make a comment, but then they close again as he thinks better of it and only smiles faintly before giving the blond man's hand a faint squeeze. He kisses him once more before sitting back to remove his underwear, idly tossing it over the side of the bed once he has.
Pretty or not, it was still in the way.]
Ready?
[He is. Alhaitham knows he is. He's been ready and the scribe doesn't tease him by waiting for a response. The lube is found easily - the same place - and he holds Kaveh's hips steady with one hand while he rubs two slicked fingers slowly against his entrance.
[ Alhaitham sighs out that comment, and for as much as it's not censure, it feels like it, just like it always does. Kaveh's cheeks flush an angry red, and his eyes dart sideways, an angry retort on his lips that is bitten off when those fingers press over his palm, lips against his in silent offering. That's always been the problem, hasn't it? Kaveh, who desires so badly not to be seen, is seen by Alhaitham, right down to the very heart of him.
It's what made him walk away from their friendship, it's what has him even now hold the younger man at arm's length every time he shows an inkling of care. It's always been the only way to protect himselfβ
And yet here he is, spread willingly under the other, unable to do anything but accept him... all of his own choice.
The kiss is a welcome distractionβ it doesn't last anywhere near long enough, but with his arms connected to the headrail, there's not much he can do about it other than pout. It's a pout too that has more meanings than the one, because the scribe is being something of a tease, rubbing those two fingers against him in a way that has the blonde squirming, a stuttered out whine on his lips. ]
Isn't it obvious? [ he bites out, and he knows the answer is yes, knows Alhaitham knows and is teasing him anyway. ] Of course I'm ready.
It's different already. Far removed from the times they have been thrown together by their desperate, driven urges but even, too, from the other times, when it was almost because they wanted to.
Almost, but not quite. Not like this deliberate choice.
There could be said to be the faintest quirk of a smile as Alhaitham concedes, curling his index finger in to his palm and pressing the middle finger inside. He seems to watch for a moment, as if fascinated, then turns his attention to kisses.
Kissing Kaveh is turning out to be a very enjoyable pastime.]
If I let your hands go, what would you do? [He questions quietly as his finger curls in deep, looking for just the right spot.]
[ The flush on his cheeks shows no signs of abating as Alhaitham's eyes appear to be trained on his own actions, Kaveh biting back a low, soft moan at the sensation of that finger pushing into him. The kisses help, giving him something to focus on and ground himself with, and he returns them with a sort of abandon as his heart picks up in his chest, almost pounding with the sensations.
And then the scribe is breaking the kisses to ask questions, and the blonde is blinking in overwhelmed confusion, frustration curving his lips downward for the barest of moments before the brush of that curved finger finds exactly the right spot and has a moan sneaking out of him unbidden, eyelids fluttering as he peers up at Alhaitham in silence for a moment or two.
What would he do? What wouldn't he doβ ]
I'd touch you. [ His voice is low. Hushed and trembling. ] Take my time exploring you and.. mm, and find the places you like the most. That feel the best for you too. And I'd... kiss you more often tooβ sometimes I want to kiss you but you're sitting up and I can'tβ
[ He stops, almost abruptly, before he can ramble too much more. ]
[When he's already learned his way around Kaveh's body, finding that spot is all too easy. He doesn't put too much pressure there but circles slowly around and over it as he moves his finger in and out, already feeling the way the man is loosening and relaxing around that one digit.]
Hm...
[He notices how Kaveh almost seems to cut himself off. How he retreats from that thought before he can finish it. And he wonders...
Dismisses the thought.
He can move away less.]
Once I'm done with you... do you think you'll still have the energy to take me?
[It's less a question and more like an offer as he teases a second finger alongside the first and eases it in.]
[ Less a question, more an offer, almost a challenge in Kaveh's addled mind, especially as his mind continues to try and find ways to put walls between the two of them despite the fact that they're very much naked together in his bed. His hips roll down against the pleasure being offered to him, gasping and almost whining at the sensation of that finger ghosting over such a pleasurable point, and then again as a second is added.
He's forced to take a moment to catch his breath, but then he nods. ]
I will. Even if I have to rest for a few minutes first.
[ Another breath, another roll of his hips against those fingers. ]
Are youβ mm, are you finding you have a preference?
[It takes him a moment to understand, distracted as he is right now, but even then he doesn't immediately answer. A preference..?
Truth be told he hasn't thought about it much. There are a couple of things he's found that he does enjoy more than others, but when it comes down to it it seems to be more about the person he's with than anything else. He gives a small shake of his head.]
Not really. [But, this. The slow arch of Kaveh's body as it reacts to the stimulation. How his breathing shivers and his voice shakes as he tries to speak. The little moans between words. Alhaitham has already realised that he likes that, but also that he likes it because it's Kaveh, not because he enjoys those things in isolation.
If it was anyone else, would he care that much? He knows himself well enough to realise that he wouldn't.
His fingers slide in deep again, a slick and wet sound accompanying the motion, but Alhaitham is not listening. His mouth is on Kaveh's again, lips parting and their tongues curling together. He shifts his thigh up between the older man's legs to give him something to grind against.]
[ He's ready to explain, but the words seem to clear in Alhaitham's head in the next few moments anyway, an answer on his lips that has Kaveh nod even as his body arches again, the words unable to find his mouth for a moment or two. He probably should acknowledge the other's answer, but he's taken too fast by the press of lips against his, a soft sigh and his tongue arching in answer, a pleased shudder running down his spine.
He takes the offer of the younger's thigh, too, hips rolling down in a way that his cock drags heavy against it, eliciting a whine that disappears into the tangle of their tongues. There's a soft jingle as his wrists tug unbidden against their bonds, his body trying to follow through on its natural urge to wind arms around him, to pull him close as they kiss.
It's different this time somehow, Kaveh can feel that tooβ and perhaps that's why his brain is fighting him so much, trying to build barricades wherever it can. Before, his self-protection came from the fact that they needed to, but this time... ]
[Alhaitham shifts in turn, a subtle roll of his thigh against the twitch of Kaveh's hips working in counterpoint to the steady thrust of fingers inside him. How it feels this time, the difference, is something that the younger man allows to wash over him, pushing a few pieces into place.
He pulls back, briefly kisses Kaveh's lips again, then deliberately rolls his fingertips over the man's prostate.]
Good boy. [Alhaitham murmurs gently. He is not one for false or insincere praise and has been quietly thinking his way through how he might like to present it, how Kaveh might like to hear it from him, and he thinks he can make it work.
The tone is a soft, sincere one as he speaks into the small space between their lips.]
You're doing so well for me. [Their eyes meet. He softly bumps the tips of their noses together.] So well-behaved.
[ The moments pass; between Alhaitham's thigh against his arousal, his fingers thrusting inside him, their lips working over each other's mouths, there's enough pleasure that Kaveh's brain can finally disconnect from all the worries and the pressure, allowing him to finally just sink into the moment and enjoy it fully. He's not even consciously aware of the shift in his own body, but it's there, pliant under the younger's touches and desperate for more.
Good boy, Alhaitham says then, and the bliss of release comes to an abrupt halt, Kaveh's eyes openingβ and opening wide. A new flush of red works over his cheeks, dying them crimson as his body tightens in pleasure, a whimper on his lips as he clenches down around those fingers, dizzyingly close to an orgasm from those words alone.
Oh, fuck. This is a power he should never have introduced Alhaitham to, isn't it? ]
[The movement of his fingers slows at the abrupt tightening around them. Alhaitham's breath softly catches, as if he's surprised by the impact that such simple words had even if he felt a little awkward in saying them. A faint flush touches his cheeks in turn as he meets Kaveh's widened eyes.
And it isn't as if he has never been close enough to the other man to notice the colour of his eyes before. He could pick the shade off a swatch if he had to, along with the man's hair colour and his preferences in clothing. The colour of them is not new to him but what is new is the sensation that flushes through him as that colour all but fills his vision.
It isn't just the one thing. A combination of everything rolls together. Alhaitham lightly cups the side of Kaveh's jaw and speaks softly, sincerely.]
[ At any other time, he'd accuse Alhaitham of being facetious. But everything being as it is, he knows that the other is being entirely serious, even as those fingers cup his jaw, as the younger man tells him softly that his eyes are beautiful.
His eyesβ
Another tremor passes through him, another physical tightening of his muscles down around those fingers, even slowed as they are now. A soft whine forms on his lips, and he can't quite help the way his head tosses to the side, an instinctive rejection of the compliment offered to him by the other man. ]
N-no, no Iβ stop that..
[ The words are muttered, an attempt to get away from the situation that doesn't follow his own rulesβ not once is the name of his magnum opus even thought of, much less spoken into being. Just something else he'll have cause to wonder about later. ]
[The way his fingers push in deeply is almost like a scolding punishment and he holds the stinging pressure there for a moment before he moves them again. His free hand guides Kaveh's head back around and although he feels something in the pit of his stomach jolt at the word 'stop' he remembers what they spoke of earlier.
Is this like that, then? Kaveh knows the word to use if he really wants things to halt. Alhaitham isn't sure how he feels about it but shakes that uncertainty off for the moment. There's no harm in what they're doing now.]
They are. I've never considered it before. [He pauses, then lightly kisses him again. His heart races almost painfully in his chest, sticking in his throat.] You're beautiful.
[ Kaveh gasps aloud at the sensation of the deep push stopping right then and there, but his gaze remains averted until Alhaitham's hand guides him back, makes him meet his eyes again even as he'd rather hide, and Kaveh's heart, the traitorous bitch it is, skips a beat.
Not just his eyes, now, but him too? Kaveh doesn't feel beautiful, what with his mussed hair and blown-out eyes and ruddied red cheeks. His voice dies in his throat before he can argue though, pressing up into the kiss even as he feels breathless, closing his eyes against the tears he can feel prickling at their corners. ]
I.. Alhaitham, youβ
[ For the first time in years, the exclamation of "you" on Kaveh's tongue is not made with a tone laced in anger. Rather, it's shaken and unsure, overwhelmed by the sensations and the words both. ]
[He interrupts smoothly, quietly, cutting Kaveh off with another kiss. His chest aches again, strangely, and the briefest consideration that this entire thing was a mistake flits through his mind before it is just as quickly dismissed. He doesn't think so. Maybe it was something that they both needed.
Alhaitham glances up at where Kaveh's hands are cuffed up to the headrail, and decides that he doesn't like that right now. The older man would find his wrists released, and the scribe lightly guiding one of his arms up around him.]
I want you to hold on to me.
[His hand goes back to Kaveh's face, cradling it gently as he carefully adds a third finger to the two already thrusting into him.]
[ Alhaitham barely has to guide Kaveh's armβ the moment he feels the cuffs release around his wrists, the blonde is moving both arms to wrap them around the younger's shoulders, all but clinging to him just in time for the other to say that's what he wants.
He answers the other's statement with a low moan, one half inspired by his words and half by the addition a third finger, his hips rutting down against the intrusion.
His breath quickens, and his eyes open once more to look up into Alhaitham's face, revealing the sheen of wet over them even as his look gains a hint of desperation, a bite of his lower lip. ]
Pleaseβ please tell me you don't intend to do that just with your fingers.
[He really does have the most brilliant eyes, Alhaitham thinks idly. It isn't that he's never noticed before...
The younger man realises his thoughts are repeating and draws himself back to the present, lightly smoothing his thumb across Kaveh's cheek. He exhales a soft, breathy chuckle.]
If you climax from just this, then it's fine... [It seems he might intend just that as he slowly spreads his fingers inside the man and then rubs up against that spot again. Something in the back of his mind is impatient, but he doesn't let it take over.]
[ At a different time, in a different place, Kaveh can see himself teasing Alhaitham for his dry way of speaking about something so passionate. But right now, he doesn't have it in himβ largely because for some reason, that same dry way of speaking is doing something to him right now.
His lips part to attempt to stage a protest, but then fingers press over that one damn spot again, and he cries out instead, head tilting back against the pillow, eyelids fluttering and draping over his eyes as he whines. ]
Alhaithamβ
[ Fuck. Fuck, he's so close, and it feels like they've barely started, and Alhaitham is right here, and being so nice, andβ ]
[He might get better at it over time. Alhaitham is not someone incapable of passion and emotion, as Kaveh well knows, but it tends to be viewed as a complication that he would rather just keep out of his life entirely.
Though, at one time, he would have said the same of what he's doing right now. Some things have changed quickly here.
He doesn't think that Kaveh will last even if they move on quickly now and so, rather than do that, he curls his fingers in again and aims for that same spot inside that made him moan like that.]
[ "I'm right here," Alhaitham says, and that's enough for Kaveh; even before the younger man urges him to let it happen, he feels his body tightening, pitching over the edge of his breaking point with an abruptness that has his toes curling, a cry on his lips as he orgasms untouched but for the fingers pressing inside him, coating his own abdomen as he arches and gasps and clings to the other man.
For a moment, his eyes close, and then open again, half-lidded, lips parted with his panted breaths and soft whines.
It takes him a few seconds to regain himself enough to curl fingers into the younger man's hair, tugging him close into a kiss, slow and sweet as he catches his breath. ]
[Alhaitham hums softly into that kiss, leaning into it, letting Kaveh feel the pressure of his fingers as he climaxes and then slowly drawing them free so the other man can catch his breath and pull his head back together.]
Good?
[Not a question that really needs to be answered he thinks, but he asks it with the smallest touch of a smile at the corners of his mouth.]
Kaveh... [His expression turns thoughtful then, quietly curious, one hand weaving into his hair and rubbing idly at his scalp with blunt fingertips.] I want to do something with you that no one else has. Can you think of anything like that?
[ There's soft whine on Kaveh's lips when Alhaitham pulls his fingers free, even as he nods his assent into the space between them, mumbles something about how yes, it was good, really goodβ not a question that really needs to be answered for sure, but answered anyway.
The haze is just starting to clear when the younger poses a new question of him, something that has the blonde blinking in confusion. Something he's never done with anyone else? The list is... embarrassingly small, and those things he hasn't done but wants to are those that seem somehow wrong for this particular moment.
But there's an odd feeling in his gut, a reluctance to tell Alhaitham "no", and so the scribe will see crimson eyes narrow in the same thoughtful expression as Kaveh mulls over a few options.
He's not sure he really wants to make himself any more vulnerable than he's already feeling right now, so... ]
Do you trust me? [ His voice is soft, a little shaky despite what he's about to suggest. ] I... there's something I... I'd like to try edging you.
[On the contrary the list of things Alhaitham hasn't done persists in being rather long, and failing Kaveh being able to come up with something he was sure he could manage it instead. There's the flicker of a thought of wanting something just for the two of them to share, something that no one else gets to have, and he wonders if that is a kind of foolish selfishness that neither of them can afford here.
The question makes him look up, meeting Kaveh's eyes with faint surprise. Does he trust him? Kaveh has never asked him that question and Alhaitham had never thought he would need to.
Of course he trusts him. He trusts Kaveh as someone who knows him better than anyone. As a person who acts as a mirror to himself, keeping him connected to the world in a way that no one else can. As someone that he would place his life in the hands of, if there was ever a need to do so, and know it would be well taken care of.
What he actually asks feels like nothing in comparison.]
... All right.
[A little thrill of anticipatory excitement burns in him for a moment.]
[ If Alhaitham is watching closely enough, he'll see the flicker of shock as it passes over Kaveh's face. Despite his making the suggestion, he really didn't think that the younger would agree to it. It's a loss of control at best, and he knows that the other isn't really fond of having control taken out of his hands. So even as the words left Kaveh's lips, he was sure the other would say noβ
Instead, he replies in the affirmative, and for a moment the blonde is taken off-guard. ]
Okay.
[ His answer is quiet, almost hesitant, but then he sits up, drawing the other with him and moving to nudge him back against the bed instead, hands drawing those strong arms above Alhaitham's head. ]
Your turn to keep them up here. [ His head tilts, momentarily playful. ] The cuffs are right there. I'll use them if I have to.
[ And then, after a moment, the seriousness coming back into his face and voice: ]
[Though he could easily overpower Kaveh when it comes to physical strength the shift in position is allowed without complaint and Alhaitham curls his fingers around the headrail after Kaveh pushes his arms up.
His eyes don't leave the other man's for a moment - quiet, calm, trusting as he looks at him - then he gives a small nod.]
I haven't forgotten.
[He might have brought Kaveh to climax once already but Alhaitham's only relief so far has been in the occasional chafing of his still-clothed cock against Kaveh's thigh. He's painfully turned on and it shows even through the fitted fabric of his trousers, and even more so as Kaveh moves him over onto his back.
He isn't embarrassed, but he does briefly glance down at himself.]
If you wouldn't mind... The clothes are new, and I don't want to have to have them professionally cleaned already.
[ In a lot of ways, Kaveh is still reeling at how quickly and easily things have shifted between them. Alhaitham's request is met with a nod on the blonde's part, eyes momentarily fixed on the visible strain between his legs, and he smiles, leaning into the space between the two of them to press his mouth to the other's chestβ and if he's being slow, leaving soft touches against the skin as he doesβ then it's definitely on purpose, and it's a good thing that Alhaitham seems to have better self-control than he does. ]
You should dress like this more often.
[ The statement comes without much room for thought on Kaveh's side, a small smile on his lips as his hand moves to the front of Alhaitham's crotch to rub over it slowly as his kisses work their way down the other's chest. ]
You looked kind of like a librarian from Mondstadt or something.
[ Then, he sits again, pulling back to watch as both hands start to work on undoing his pants, a curious tilt of his head as he looks up at the other man's face again. ]
[Kaveh would know as well as Alhaitham does that things would not have shifted this easily without the younger man's express desire that they do so, but it turns out that he doesn't mind the picture of Kaveh leaning over him like this.
His breathing hitches softly, drawn in between his teeth as the stimulation of the other man's hand makes his hips twitch, and his fingers briefly tighten around the headrail.]
If it's below my collar, you can bite me anywhere you please.
[That had always been the rule, though in fairness he had not clarified it the first time he had told Kaveh not to bite him. He shifts his hips in subconscious anticipation of having his pants pulled off.]
Unless you have a driving need to mark what's yours.
[ Kaveh's eyes shoot up, a momentarily amused look on his face as he shakes his head. Only an idiot would think that Kaveh somehow wanted to mark Alhaitham as his.
And yet, he thinks, as he works to pull the other's pants down and over his hips, catching his underwear with them so that the scribe's arousal can lift free of its confines (making Kaveh bite his lip as his eyes are drawn), and yet right now are they not doing something explicitly for the two of them? Something he's never done beforeβ something he presumes Alhaitham has never done before?
Doesn't that, in some small way, make Alhaitham his? ]
Don't be stupid.
[ The words are almost spat out, but the anger is more at himself than it is Alhaitham. With a sigh, he drops his mouth to leave kisses over the other man's chest, and at the same time he takes his erection into his hand, starting to please it with smooth, quick strokes. ]
[Stupid, hm? Seems that Kaveh has already forgotten the words and actions that he showed in the baths when Alhaitham was riding on him and he tried to claim the man as his own.
Conveniently forgotten... perhaps not forgotten at all. Alhaitham flexes his fingers slightly against the headrail again and breathes out a quiet exhale, his brow furrowing just slightly as Kaveh kisses across his chest and takes hold of his cock. He swallows, the next inhale shuddering slightly.]
[ He has forgotten, to a certain degree. With how addled his mind was that day, Kaveh has told himself that anything he said or did doesn't matter, and done his best to put it out of his mind completely. So he's not thinking about it at all, especially right now as he's trying to keep himself held together in the face of this.
Still, he smiles at the other's words, and nods. If something not visible is fair game, then he already knows what he wants to do; he straightens up just enough that he can shift down to the other's legs, starting to pump him slowly as he lowers his mouth to Alhaitham's thigh.
Like this, he can attack the skin with kisses and bites, suck it between his lips to bully it with his tongue. All the while, his hand continues to move, finding a steady pace, fingers tightening and easing just a little with each stroke, exploring over his tip and smudging through the precum. ]
[The way that his hands keep twitching and flexing against the headrail speak volumes of how much he wants to touch the head between his thighs. Alhaitham's breathing catches, he gasps softly, and between the dual sensation of Kaveh's hand on his cock and the teeth and tongue drawing up a mark on the firm skin of his inner thigh one of his arms drops.
He touches Kaveh's hair.
Gently, at first. The other man may not even notice how Alhaitham's fingertips skim over blond locks, but then his fingers lightly weave into them and lightly grip, just enough to be felt but not enough for force Kaveh's head to move at all.
And should Kaveh take that moment to look at him he would find Alhaitham flushed, his pupils large and dark, sweat darkening the small wisps of ashen grey at his hairline.]
He told Alhaitham he wasn't allowed to touch, that he had to keep his hands up against the headrail.
It's barely been minutes, and there are fingers in his hair, weaving and gripping, and crimson eyes shoot up to meet the other's face.
What he finds there completely takes away his ability to be unhappy about it. A shaky breath gusts over the bruise he's left on the scribe's thigh, heart clenching in his chest as he reaches up to gently touch the other's wrist. ]
What did I say about no touching, mm Haitham?
[ But there really is no anger in his voice. He sits up, gently moves the other's hand back to the headrail, and holds it against it for a silent moment or two. ]
If you touch me again, I really will put the cuffs on you.
[ He shifts back to where he was, another breath over the skin. ]
I wanna do it the first time with my mouth. Any complaints?
[He doesn't expect that Kaveh will actually be annoyed by his disobedience. Nor, he thinks, would he actually consent to having his hands bound. He can behave himself if he sets his mind to doing so, but in the moment it was simply impossible to resist reaching out.
And he absolutely does not regret it.
His brow furrows softly at the question. Kaveh has suggested this before, more than once, and each time Alhaitham has refused because the idea of it just did not appeal to him. Even now he isn't sure, not really, but the thought of the older man's mouth on his cock sends a tingle of anticipation across his skin. He swallows, watching him for a moment, then shakes his head.]
Only a compromise.
[And he moves his hand down from where Kaveh had pushed it back up to the headrail, lightly brushing his fingertips to the blond man's jaw.]
[ He blinks, and his lips part in a questionβ a compromise?β that goes unasked as Alhaitham's fingertips brush along his jaw... and just like that, he's won over, no plan in mind of even starting to bind the other's wrists.
(And the funny part is that it's less about getting to finally please Alhaitham with his mouth and more about the fact that the scribe apparently wants to touch him enough that he would bargain for it.)
Kaveh pushes that thought aside and licks his lips, pausing to nod up at Alhaitham. ]
Okay. But just my hair and my face for now, alright?
[ And he waits, pausing his ministrations and movements while he does, perhaps a little to tease the other man, but also because he's not sure he can focus on any answer the other should give when preparing to go down on him. ]
[A compromise. Alhaitham is capable of them as Kaveh well knows, as much as he often presents himself as someone utterly unmoving for such things, but this is certainly one of which the older man would never have seen the like before.]
Mm. That is all I want.
[No grabbing, no pushing, only the light touch of his fingers in Kaveh's hair. He brushes his fingertips over the blond locks, tracking the movement of his hand for a moment before his gaze shifts back as Kaveh pauses.]
[ It takes him a moment to adjust when Alhaitham stops talking; unfortunately for him, in that short time, the other has noticed his pause and is asking, checking in on him as if something were wrong. A light flush comes to his cheeks, and Kaveh lifts his head to shake it, smiling faintly. ]
No, it's nothing. I was just waiting to hear what you said. I want you to be able to focus completely on this, after all. Show you what you've been missing.
[ The words are cheeky, not quite matching his toneβ his tone, laced with uncertainty because why should he have lost himself over something as small as this? And why is he thinking so much about how he needs to blow Alhaitham's mind with his efforts?
No pun intended.
Another smile, and Kaveh leans over him, hand cupping and stroking lightly around the base of his shaft as his mouth closes over the tip, tongue flickering over the skin and tasting. ]
['Show you what you've been missing', he says, and Alhaitham lets out a little huff of air through his nose. He's still not entirely sure about this, only allowing it because it is Kaveh and quite ready to call a stop to it the moment he decides whether or not he enjoys it through experience. At least they are both of sound mind now and he can trust it to stop if he doesn't like it after all.
Admittedly, there is something enticing about having the older man between his thighs like that. The image is definitely not an unpleasant one.
Still, he twitches and makes a soft sound, his expression pinching as Kaveh's mouth closes around the tip of his cock. He inhales sharply, his hand tightening around the headrail while the other stays resting lightly on the other man's head, unable to deny the definite tingle of pleasure that sparks through him at the sensation.
It's different to being inside him or having a hand around his length. Warm and wet. His brow furrows slightly as his legs shift restlessly for a moment, heels digging against the bed sheets.
But he doesn't say anything, so Kaveh can assume that he's fine for now. Alhaitham hasn't taken his eyes off him yet.]
[ The sharp inhale is practically music to Kaveh's ears, and paired with the fact that Alhaitham doesn't tell him to stop, he takes it as a positive sign. After all, despite his bravado, he knows all too well that the other has been hesitant to accept this from him, even if he doesn't know why.
Maybe that's why he needs it to be amazing.
Part of him wants to watch the expressions play out over Alhaitham's face, but for now at least he can't help the way his eyes close as he starts to work himself slowly against him, staying just around the head at first and then dipping slightly lower, taking him slowly deeper as he explores every last inch of skin with lips and tongue in turn. Where his mouth doesn't yet reach, his fingers continue slowly stroking, matching his exploratory pace.
He hums his content as his tongue swipes out over the head again, tasting the precum beading at the slit. This is what he wantedβ ]
[He tries to settle into it. To enjoy it for what it is. There's an undeniable aspect of pleasure to the whole thing as his body reacts but as Kaveh continues Alhaitham realises one thing with absolute, crystal clear certainty.
He does not like this.
The shivers racing across him give way to an uncomfortable sensation of his skin crawling as he shifts again, nudges his palm against Kaveh's forehead and then fully pushes him back. Alhaitham half sits up, his gaze wavering and uncharacteristically unsure as he shakes his head.]
Stop.
[Truth be told he does have an idea of why Kaveh has been so insistent on it. Maybe for anyone else it would be a grand experience, but for Alhaitham himself the lack of appeal is showing itself quite clearly in the evident waning of his arousal.
He frowns, trying to work through his own thoughts.]
I don'tβ... I don't want that from you. Or anyone.
[ Kaveh stops before Alhaitham even tells him to do so, taking his cue from the palm pressed flat against his forehead to push him away. For a moment, red eyes look up unblinking and wide, and then back at the other's flagging arousal, and as he swipes the back of his hand across his mouth the most horrible, uncomfortable feeling sinks deep in his skin, andβ ]
I'm sorryβ
[ But he falls silent again because Alhaitham is talking.
I don't want that from you. Or anyone.
He swallows hard, looking up at him with a small smile, even as it quavers on his lips. It's not about him, he has to tell himself. It's not that Alhaitham doesn't want him. It's something about the sensation, it's not a rejection..
It's not a rejection.
A deep breath, and his smile strengthens, something genuine and gentle. ]
Okay. That's okay. [ Maybe later he'll ask him about it, find out what it is he doesn't like so that he knows for the future. But right now he doesn't wanna spoil the mood, soβ ]
[It isn't a rejection of Kaveh. Gods, he isn't sure if there is anyone in any world he could want more even if that one particular act was a non-starter. He decides to work through the complicated tangle of thoughts around his refusal to continue later rather than being distracted by them now and meets Kaveh's eyes in quiet contemplation as he considers.
What does he want? In real terms sex has held so little space in his thoughts over the years that he has never given much consideration to that kind of question. He's learning all kinds of things these days. What he likes and doesn't like in settings far more intimate than he ever imagined himself in.
So, what does he want?
He sits up straight and takes hold of one of Kaveh's hands, only lightly snagging it. His fingers don't take grip but trail down the man's forearm instead, ghosting across his skin until they reach Kaveh's chest. What does he want? Something... else.
Alhaitham pulls Kaveh to him and kisses him, one hand splayed flat to his chest while the other digs gently into his hair. The pad of his thumb strokes a slow trail around the shell of his companion's ear.]
[ For a moment, Kaveh really isn't sure what the scribe is going to say. Especially as the other man sits up, he wonders to himself if the encounter is over for nowβ and something deep and primal knots itself up, stomach rolling at the knowledge that he doesn't want it to be
(but he'll do what Alhaitham wants, of course, he'll always do whatever it is Alhaitham wants, no matter how much it hurts him)
but then a hand ghosts over his skin, a grip pulling him close and into a gentle, tender kiss, and all the anxiety unwinds itself as Kaveh all but melts into him, both arms moving to circle around the other's shoulders.
I want you close, Alhaitham says, and Kaveh's heart does something weird in his chest, causing an unbidden sound on his lips, half-sob and half-murmur. A breath to stabilize himself and: ]
Okay. [ A hand winds itself up into the scribe's hair from where it rests at the nape; the other drops from around his shoulder to rest at his waist. ] What if... what if we stay like this, and I use my hand? Does thatβ is that good?
[That sound prompts a semi-foreign feeling in the centre of Alhaitham's chest. He is already relatively sure of his feelings towards the other man - in a way that he has, if he is honest, been for some time - but he has his reasons for keeping his silence on the matter.
Not the least of which being that he knows Kaveh so well.
The suggestion is absorbed quietly, Alhaitham's attention sliding offside for a moment, then he takes a quick breath and nods.]
That sounds better.
[He isn't used to these missteps. To not feeling entirely sure of himself even if he is very certain of what he likes and does not like. It's good to have a clear head for once, and yet...]
[ And his hand shifts that little lower, taking Alhaitham's flagging arousal into its grip and starting to slowly stroke along it. His forehead remains pressed against the other man's, his eyes shutβ there's a fear deep down in him that he doesn't even fully recognize, a fear that tells him that if he opens his eyes right now, this whole thing will have to end.
He does, however, tilt his head enough that he can kiss the younger again, lips locking into his as his hand continues to move at a slow, steady pace, thumb rubbing over the head in the same way his tongue did just a few moments before.
Whatever disappointment he feels is supplanted by two different things: the need, first, for Alhaitham to enjoy this, to feel good in whatever they're doing,
and something else that hinges on a question he's not ready to ask, let alone answer.
[Alhaitham, conversely, keeps his eyes open to study the older man's face as they stay close to one another. That is, until their lips meet again, when his eyelids snap shut and he leans gently into it. One thing can be said for sure - when it comes to kissing Kaveh, he definitely does enjoy it.
Those faint prickles of arousal start up again and the difference in his body's reactions is immediately evident. Rather than those vaguely uncomfortable twitches and restless shifting he slides his hands lightly over Kaveh's skin, one on his thigh and the other slipping around the shallow dip of his waist, clearly far more at ease.
He tugs the older man closer, almost into his lap, smiling a little against his lips as he snatches a breath between kisses. His cock firms again against the slow slide of Kaveh's palm and the teasing touch of his thumb over the head and his breathing shivers, eyes half-lidded when they part for long enough to look at each other.]
It was not a comment on your prowess. You do understand that, don't you.
[ Under his touch, he can feel Alhaitham hardening again, and he sighs between their kisses as his free hand curls up into the younger's hair, stroking through the strands and nails scratching light against the scalp. It's not what he had planned, but it's still nice, and in the end the most important thing is that he makes Alhaitham feel good, andβ
and it doesn't quite stop his expression from faltering at the comment, eyes finally openingβ to show a hint of irritation in red instead of whatever vulnerable softness was there before. ]
If I thought you were commenting on my prowess, you'd no longer be in my bed. [ There's a hint of venom in his voice, perhaps not as strongly as it might have been if they weren't kissing just moments before, but still there.
Then, his strokes pause, and he sighs, eyes flitting away. ]
Sorry. Let's just... not talk about that right now. Not when I'm...
[ A shake of his head, a stronger fire in his gaze as it meets Alhaitham's again. ]
[He's not shy to say he's still figuring things out. Kaveh of all people knows very well that most of this is still new to him and there's no way for him to know what he does and doesn't like until he tries it...
And they tried it, and he did not like it, and that's fine.
Alhaitham shakes his head slightly.]
Doesn't need to be talked about.
[As far as he is concerned they have already moved past it, are there not better things to be concentrating on at the moment?]
But you should remember that I am not always trying to insult you. [Sometimes he is, even if the intent itself isn't to insult. He knows the things he says are insulting regardless of how he means them. He looks up at Kaveh's face, lightly cupping his cheek with one hand.] Keep going like this. Please.
[ Doesn't it? It was Alhaitham who brought it up after the fact, after all, or maybe that was just to say what he needed to say about it, to let Kaveh know that it's not him. ]
I might have some questions, if you don't mind. I just... wanna make sure I know what you do and don't like.
[ After all, it seems that they're determined, both of them, to keep going like this, to keep finding one another in these momentsβ those of desperation and those of genuine want.
(There's a fear, somewhere in the back of his mind, that he doesn't understand.) ]
But... I know you're not.
[ It's an admission hard won, even as Kaveh's hand starts moving over Alhaitham again, picking up a hint of speed; when a hand cups his cheek, he tilts it for a moment before leaning in to kiss him again, something soft and sweet in contrast to the way he thumbs over the head of his arousal, seeking the places he likes the best. ]
[He is quite happy to tell Kaveh what he does and doesn't like in this scenario. What they're doing right now, he definitely likes, and his body's reactions tell that story for him as much as they displayed his discomfort before.
Alhaitham meets the next kiss with a soft sigh. He slides his free arm around the older man's back and leans into him, parting his lips against the kiss to deepen it. He can feel his arousal growing, a steady lift rather than a sharp, uncontrollable spike of lust, and he likes that too.]
Mm--
[Kaveh sweeps his thumb over the head of his cock and Alhaitham feels the pleasure tingle down the insides of his thighs, He breaks away from the kiss with a quick exhale and then chuckles quietly.]
[ It's a mumbled promise between their kiss; it seems wrong almost to ask questions like that when he can literally feel Alhaitham's arousal starting to reawaken under his touch, when his focus is attentive to the other's sounds and movements rather than anything else he might want to talk about.
Like that, he says, and Kaveh smiles, repeating the same motion as his hand continues to move along the other's cock. And as he hardens, the blonde picks up speed, little by little until he's reached a smooth, steady rhythm.
He offers Alhaitham a smile, and then presses a kiss to the corner of his lips, watching his face for hints and signs of his pleasure. ]
Remember, [ he murmurs. ] You have to tell me when you're close.
[That is not to say that he won't forget, with everything going on, but for now he has not forgotten. He shifts against Kaveh's touch, smiles faintly against the next kiss pressed against his lips, and wraps his arms loosely around the other man's shoulders while he works him over.
All the better to be able to slide his fingers into the older man's hair and gently grip it as his hips twitch against that nimble hand.]
Hm--
[Not yet, but his breathing catches and then he sighs, digging the tips of his fingers against the warm skin of Kaveh's back. His pupils are dilated, black pools framed with green, and he nudges his nose against Kaveh's before he kisses him again. His voice is a low murmur - distracted.]
[ He says he hasn't forgotten, but Kaveh is still careful to track the other's reactions as much as he can, not wanting them both to get so caught up in the moment that Alhaitham reaches the point of no return before they can do anything about it.
Or that's the plan, anyway.
It's too easy for him to get sidetracked, lost to the way Alhaitham's breath hitches before he sighs, to the way he murmurs distractedly into their kiss, urging Kaveh to continue what he's doing. There's something remarkably attractive about the way the scribe gives himself over to the pleasure, hips twitching and fingers gripping; it makes the blonde squirm with his own unanswered need.
He sweeps his thumb over the head of Alhaitham's arousal, smoothing it against the slit before sliding back into that same rhythm, his teeth catching softly against the younger's lower lip. ]
[He hasn't quite forgotten what he needs to - what he needs to tell Kaveh when it's time - but it keeps slipping in and out of his mind as he languidly moves against him. Alhaitham isn't loud. He rarely has been at any point they have been together, but that doesn't mean that his enjoyment is any less clear. He leans into each kiss, rocks his hips against Kaveh's hand, and as he feels the pleasure bubbling up in him curling into a tight heat in the pit of his stomach--]
Stop--
[Gods, he almost forgot entirely. A sharp breath hisses in between his teeth as he grabs hold of Kaveh's wrist and looks at him urgently before pressing their foreheads together.]
Ah-- hah. If you touch me again, I'm--
[It's hard to hold it back even without Kaveh's hand on him. The scribe's expression pinches slightly as he huffs out a strained gasp.]
[ He's just enjoying their kisses, relishing in the way Alhaitham silently shows his appreciation, when all of a sudden the younger man hisses out and grabs at his wrist, huffing out the words to explain himself (not that Kaveh needs an explanation this time, having understood immediately what was happening). He smiles, and his hands lift to stroke across Alhaitham's cheeks as if to soothe and comfort him through the loss of pleasure as he waits for him to come down far enough from his high that he can continue.
(And he's privately amazed, just a little, at the scribe's sheer willpower, the strain in his expression as he struggles to stave off his own orgasm.) ]
Just breathe.
[ It's a whisper, his eyes soft and fond as he watches the other, fingers smoothing over his cheeks, lips stealing a quick, soft kiss. ]
Breathe through it. You're doing so well, Alhaitham.
Every point of contact burns. The tension of his thighs against Kaveh's, the pressure of his forehead leaning into him, each point where he's gripping against him with a slightly-too-tight hold. Alhaitham exhales slowly, inhales, exhales again, and forces himself to relax. He pushes that rising tide back and feels himself shaking with the effort, something irritated and impatient sparking in the back of his mind that demands more.
It's... intense. His cock throbs, hard and flushed and beading precum in clear warning of how close he is to orgasm. The scribe presses his mouth hard and firm to Kaveh's and kisses him deeply, reproachfully biting at his lower lip when they part.]
Mm... now-- now what?
[Is that Alhaitham requesting direction..? Wonders surely will never cease.]
[ Kaveh's gaze continues to search Alhaitham's face, watching him as he strains and shakes, feels the sensation of those fingers gripping just that little too tight on him, relishes in the reproachful bite that comes after that hard, hungry kiss.
But there's nothing anywhere near as wonderful as the sound of the other's voice asking what's next. It sends a delightful shiver down Kaveh's spine, and he allows his hand to trail down over the other's chest and rest at his abdomen, teasing him with proximity. ]
Just a little longer.
[ It's a whisper, breathy and wanton, as Kaveh's eyes trail down, watching the way his cock is flushed and beading. He has no idea how long he's meant to wait, but Alhaitham's shaky breathing seems to have steadied somewhat, soβ
His hand wraps around him again, starting once more with slow, steady strokes. ]
[Just how he holds on as well as he does is a wonder in itself, and though his breathing does ease before Kaveh takes hold of him it's more deceptive than it may seem. Just a little longer, he said, but his hand might as well have an electric current running through it for how difficult his touch is for Alhaitham to overlook.
While he could not be said to pride himself on being level-headed, on being in control of himself, those two things have always been a fact of Alhaitham's life. Here, both of those things are very swiftly overstepped. His hips twitch into Kaveh's hand as the slow stroking of his cock yanks him back to the brink of orgasm as if he had never taken the time to calm himself down at all.
It happens all at once. His breath catches against the back of his teeth and although he's quiet, barely making a sound save for that soft hiss of air, the way he feels is more than evident in how his entire body stiffens against Kaveh and how his fingertips dig into the older man's shoulders.
He spills over Kaveh's hand with a gasp then lightly presses their foreheads together, panting quietly.]
[ The ease of Alhaitham's breath is deceptive, and in the end, Kaveh realizes what's happening too late. He feels the way the younger's body stiffens, the way his fingers dig, but it's too late to stop, and the blonde bites his lip at the sensation of the other spilling over his hand.
...Fuck.
He smiles as the other's forehead presses into his own, stroking over him a few more times as he finishes before coming to a rest. His free hand lifts to gently stroke across his cheek, as if to soothe and relax him. Kaveh aches with the embarrassment of having screwed it up for him, having obviously started over again too soon without enough time to rest, and there's an apology on the tip of his tongue but he doesn't want to take the moment away from the other just yet.
And so he uses his hand to tilt Alhaitham's face into his, a soft meeting of their lips. ]
How are you feeling? [ he whispers, following the words with another kiss. Maybe, if the younger man enjoyed himself, it doesn't matter too much that he fucked up. All Kaveh wanted was him to feel good anyway... ]
[He doesn't think that this is how Kaveh wanted it to go but he really doesn't care, either.
And for once, when Kaveh guides his face like that, he doesn't try to move himself out of the older man's grip. He allows it, meeting his lips in a soft kiss, and at the question he lets out a low, warm chuckle.]
I feel fine.
[Alhaitham feels good, not concerned at all with whether or not the experience was 'screwed up'. He nudges their noses together when they part from the kiss and lets out a quiet breath.]
[ Kaveh smiles, a relieved expression on his face, nudging his nose back against Alhaitham's as he laughs softly in return. ]
Good. Good, I'm glad. I was worried.. it didn't go quite how I meant it to, so I'm glad it wasn't ruined for you.
[ He's not sure why, but the idea of ruining even something small like this when Alhaitham came to him explicitly for sex feels devastating. So he's glad. ]
You did really well, too. I... I don't know how you had the strength to stop me the first time. I wouldn't have been able to do that.
[He's not writing off the experience even if it didn't go entirely to plan. Coming to Kaveh explicitly for sex was one thing, but he didn't exactly have any intentions beyond that...
Alhaitham exhales softly through his nose, almost another little chuckle, and lets himself relax against Kaveh for a moment.]
I love you too. I just wasn't expecting that If you're gonna do that, I'm gonna need a warning so my heart doesn't explode out of my chest or something.
I hope you do not mind the selection tonight. I'll confess that I've yet to try any of the alcohol they've provided for us here. Though, that isn't to say I don't drink.
[ Carefully crossing the floor of her bedroom, Mona soon pauses beside her mattress with an intricately-designed silver tray in her hands. On its surface there are two glasses of wine, each a vivid, luscious raspberry-hue and filled to the brim. The bottle situated beside them appears a little more than half full, giving both Kaveh and Mona the opportunity to indulge in more if they so desired. She privately finds the scent to be pleasant, too.
Mona delicately places the tray onto her bed and straightens up. ]
I've just been a bit wary, is all. It wouldn't be the first time I've dined on something and had a strange result.
[ A fellow guest had treated Mona to some savory meat a few weeks prior, and shortly after, she had sprouted rabbit's ears and a tail. They were very sensitive, as well. And beyond that... yes, she had also downed tea laced with aphrodisia. The resort can be unforgiving with its mealtime trickery. ]
This one appeared safe to me, [ Mona says, plucking the bottle off the tray to give it another look. ] But it does appear that it will, ah... improve the mood.
[ This isn't the kind of thing Kaveh usually does. So far, his time in the resort has been marked by encounters driven by need of some sortβ usually the aphrodisiac kindβ or in the very occasional instance, want. Not once has he gone in search of a sexual encounter solely for the purpose of exchanging cards, but...
Well. There's a first time for everything, isn't there?
He's seated on the edge of Mona's bed, fingers curled loosely into the plush covers in an effort to hide his anxiety, a slight smile on his lips as she approaches from the other side of the room, wine-carrying tray in her hands. And Kaveh, who knows that he should be more careful of the food and drink here, after everything he's already been through, takes up one of the glasses and brings it to his lips so he can inhale its aroma. ]
It smells lovely. Besides... even if the effects aren't exactly as desired, we both know what we're here for, anyway.
[ He tries to ignore the tell-tale warmth in his own cheeks; as if to distract himself, he lifts the glass that he's holding, squaring his shoulders in an effort to seem less awkward about things, somehow. ]
[ Kaveh's nerves are palpable, which is endearing, in a way. It also lessens her own anxieties about performing for him. Mona herself isn't very experienced in matters like these, but having a more demure partner instinctively brings out her more assertive side. She's always been a proud woman, and she won't hesitate to take the lead if it comes down to it. Though... she might fumble here and there. Mona doubts Kaveh will mind.
She sets aside the bottle to pick up her own glass of wine, lifting it to her lips but not sipping from it just yet. Like Kaveh, Mona breathes in its scent. It's fruity, aromatic; she thinks she'll definitely be inebriated by the end. ]
A toast is just fine. I think it's rather fitting.
[ Mona smiles as she raises her glass out towards him. The edge glints under the lowlight and reflects a prismatic shard onto the wall beside them. ]
Then, let us enjoy this evening together. I will do my best as your partner, Kaveh.
[ Despite the confidence in her body language and voice, she can feel herself blushing again. Then, as if to obscure her own embarrassment, Mona makes a soft 'ahem' and takes a drink. ]
[ Admittedly, he was hoping that even the act of a toast would help to ease the mood somewhat. But when Mona talks, it's in a tone that's surprisingly formal, and Kaveh finds himself stuttering on a silent syllable or two before he sips at his own wineβ and then "sips" again, a deep drink before he lowers the glass. It's a blessing of sorts that the effects of the drink take place quickly, warming him and stirring a good mood right out of the ashes of his discomfort, and when he smiles this time it's somewhat more genuine. ]
There's no need to feel you have to be formal, Mona. I think it's fair to say we're both in a new kind of situationβ I won't judge you, if you don't judge me.
[ He chuckles, and sips again. There's still warmth in his cheeks, still shyness, but the drink gives him just enough of an edge to push through it. ]
I won't judge you. Truthfully, it's a relief you do not harbor high expectations.
[ Mona is not exactly the most flirtatious person. She really does present in a formal manner, purposefully putting on airs to mask her own vulnerabilities. In contrast, Kaveh is a bit more forward with his insecurities, though maybe not purposefully. He's outwardly softer than her, which... she appreciates, admittedly. It's easier to lower her defenses when the person she is speaking to is kind.
With the sensation of warmth spreading inside her, Mona expels a breath and nods once. Liquid courage, as they say. She can speak her mind; she's done it plenty of times before. ]
I had a thought, [ she begins, peering at him from over her glass. ] You are a very beautiful man, Kaveh, and I... believe you would look quite lovely in a particular fashion.
[ Oh, she can't keep the demure lilt out of her voice. ]
Have youβah, considered wearing women's clothes before?
[ It wasn't until very, very recently that Mona realized she enjoyed such a thing. ]
[ I had a thought, Mona says, and Kaveh leans forward to listen, taking a sip as he doesβ and very nearly choking himself on the liquid as it flows into his mouth and is promptly inhaled in his surprise. It's certainly not the kind of question he was expected, especially from someone who is very much a strangerβ
and yet he realizes very quickly that he holds no real objections toward the idea.
Besides, heβ
Kaveh clears his throat. ]
I've worn lingerie before, [ he admits, the words coming with surprising ease. (Thank you, alcohol.) ] But I've never really given thought to an entire outfit. That said, I..
[ There's color high in his cheeks, but his smile is surprisingly even. Archons above, he's really considering it.
More than that, accepting itβ looking forward to it. ]
I'd be willing to try it, if that's what interests you.
[ kaveh is, naturally, the first person hua cheng tells; they were a little in love with each other, probably, so it seems right that he should know. ]
I am sorry to bear bad news: Xie Lian has gone from this place. He is fine. I can feel his presence at the other end of our red thread, but his room is empty and I can no longer find him within the resort.
It takes all the restraint in me not to burn this place to the ground.
[ so, no. no, he is not alright, he will not be alright until he has xie lian once again in his arms, safe within the walls of paradise manor where no one else could ever touch him.
but there's nothing he can do about it now, is there? ]
I know you two loved each other. I thought it right that you be the first to know.
I'm so sorry. I understand that feeling. When Alhaitham was taken from me... mm, and the two of you have been together much longer than he and I have been.
[ Ugh. It only makes him hate everything all the more. Hua Cheng and Xie Lian will be alright, in the end. Hua Cheng will return home to his love, and they will continue on. He can only hope the same is true for him and Alhaitham, that their memories of what happened here hold.
But...
Unless they find some way to traverse the worlds...
Ugh, no. This isn't about him right now. ]
Thank you for telling me. I... My heart hurts, a lot. But I'm glad I heard it from you.
Is there anything I can do? To help you? When Alhaitham disappeared, Xie Lian helped me go to his old room and find some of his things...
I am all right, really. Knowing that he is safe is enough for me for now. It must be enough.
[ if they'd turned xie lian into a statue hua cheng would probably have just gone ham on this whole place. ]
I have his belongings, I brought them with me when the staff made me leave our room. Would you come to my room at your convenience? There are things among them that I think he would want you to have.
[Kaveh may or may not be expecting anything to come his way on this very ordinary day... regardless, it's fairly early when there's a knock at his door, a delivery of a relatively small box wrapped neatly in festive paper and with a tag stating in neat, flowing script that it's to him, and from Olivine.
inside, he'll find a necklace and a letter, written in that same steady hand.]
Kaveh,
I hope this finds you well, and that you're taking the time to be with the people you care for. I'm not sure if you have a holiday similar to Kleinmas where you're from, but for me, this is a time to share my happiness and affection for those I care for.
Admittedly, I'm not entirely sure if this will be to your tastes, but I wanted to make something that invokes the warmth and brightness I feel in your presence. Thank you for spending some of your valuable time with me, and for trusting me with your feelings and friendship.
That's true... although if you'd like, you could share a recipe with me and I'd be happy to make it. For now, I'll take a look at what I have, then, and see if I can surprise you with something new. You'll have to tell me your honest opinion. β‘
Good, I'm glad. I'm that case, I'm just excited to see it on you.
wrapped in a deep red package with soft teal and gold ribbons: laying in the tissue paper is a simple travel painting case made of beautiful, lacquered wood. upon unfolding it, on the right side is a pan of richly pigmented paints in jewel tones as well as a few empty wells for any other paints Kaveh might like to add to the palette. the palette itself is reuseable and can be refilled as desired. there is a bigger well for water next to the paint wells. on the left side there is a place for brushes and pencils and pens to be secured together with a soft leather tie. accompanying it, is a rectangular book of paper that can handle being saturated with water without bleeding into the next pages. when it opens, it folds totally flat for easy use. ]
[ the truth is, it's half kleinmas, and half a gift for simply enduring the trials this place puts them through. the text finds eiden half asleep at his desk, but he does answer almost instantly. ]
Yeahβthere are holidays like this where I'm originally from, too... all this snow reminded me that maybe I was due to send you a little something. I hope you liked it!
Selfishly I wanted to make something for you that might remind you of our good times. I didn't make the container itself, but I did mix the paints especially for you. Those are one of a kind.
[ maybe a little gayly there is a color in there suspiciously close to the color of kaveh's eyes, and perhaps a familiar soft milk tea-brown. ]
I am, yes. As to your question, of course. I find it's almost hard not to be free in this place, sometimes. So I'd be more than happy to help. What are you looking to have done?
( now give him a moment to like, actually have the courage to say the words he wants to say. being honest, showing genuine feelings, etc etc. truly the hardest part of being a blonde mhy man. )
Truth is, I'm not really so used to decorating much of anything. Even my apartment back home had mostly the furnishings it came with, and I didn't bother to add much. So I was thinking of making it more... personal, if that makes sense? Though it might be counter-productive to ask someone to do it, but I'm just not good at it.
[ Of course, Kaveh has no idea how difficult the words were for Aventurine to write, but he appreciates the honesty in them all the same. Admitting weaknesses can be hard, after all. especially for blonde mhy men Even weaknesses as small as "I didn't decorate my last home". So when he answers, he tries to be kind. ]
I don't think it's counter-productive at all. To the contrary, I think the best person to help you make something personal is an expert in the field. Someone with experience is going to be most able to take your ideas and concepts and translate them into a space that is effectively you.
...I'm rambling a little, but I think you understand my point.
What kind of suite are you in now? We can start by meeting and discussing your ideas.
( kaveh... π₯Ή the kindness is appreciated, really. at least he doesn't have to be all so nervous about speaking up and being so sincere. people don't all immediately try to insult him and use his vulnerability in their favor? crazy. )
Ahah, I do. It's why I reached out to you in particular. Ramble away. You're really passionate about this kind of stuff, right? I don't mind.
I'm in the J-A floor, an A suite, so plenty of space for you ( us??!?? ) to decorate. I'll wait for you outside my door so you know which room it is, if that works for you.
That sounds perfect. I'm the same floor, so it won't take me long at all. Let me just gather up a few things that will help us, and I'll be right there.
[ Indeed it's not long at all before Kaveh emerges from his own suite, eyes casting around the floor in search of Aventurine. He has a satchel slung over his shoulder with a few necessities, but most of what he needs is tucked inside the floating toolbox at his side, its own green eyes bright with the same faux-curiosity they wear whenever he takes it out of his room.
Once he sees the other, he'll head over with a smile and a wave of greeting. ]
True. But don't worry, I'm not against coming by to visit whenever you want the company yourself.
Do you usually collect wine, Kaveh?
(but, karna does smile himself, he's pleased. they've been speaking plenty on and off, plus kaveh seems....patient, for many of karna's unusual quirks.)
I do, though. I did a little at home too, but it's easier here. Being a Jack, the staff are quick to get pretty much anything I ask for. And we get paid a lot just for playing the game...
I did notice that whenever our ranks were exchanged, the staff were quick to follow me and address my every need. The problem was more that they were aggressive about the approach, I was queen rank at the time.
....and I don't blame you, I wouldn't feel comfortable myself at feeling like I was being in a sense used from the way it can sound.
It sounds troublesome, but I know that the ranking system is terrible. Even being in the basement has shown me that....
A year for you? I know that I'll be at that point soon. That madness during October showed me that anything could happen, I suppose, perhaps even the statues coming to life in February did as well.
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indigently) wrote2024-01-04 08:20 pm
text; un: scribe
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Is everything alright?
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I'll be coming over now.
1/4
2/4
3/4
[ He's not busy, he's not! but what that entails in this case is trying on some of the garments he and Xie Lian purchased the other day, and right now he happens to be clad in naught but the delightful teal ensemble that (although Kaveh is ignorant of this fact) reminded the young god of Alhaitham's eyes.
So he abandons his watch and rushes across his suite to grab up some clothes, pulling on the first thing he can find. Alhaitham can't be that far away, after all; the resort isn't that big. ]
4/4
Archons
I'm ready now
warn a guy next time!!!
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Where are you, anyway?
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[ Who, who, decided Kaveh needed to be punished still further, and put Alhaitham here in this place with him? ]
you are such a jerk
see if I even open the door for you when you get in!
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I have something for you.
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He sighs. ]
the door's already unlocked, Alhaitham
It better be something good.
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He's carrying a bag in one hand which he immediately hands off to Kaveh without a word as to what is in it. Inside the older man would find a box containing a few different soft cheeses, a sealed container of fresh soft fruits with a separate pot of cream, some crackers, and a small bottle of sweet wine.]
They were selling these in the shopping complex.
[No comment given to the fact this was obviously picked out specifically for Kaveh with no thought to himself. Alhaitham, after all, does not lean towards any fuss about his food.]
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and the present, he realizes immediately, is good, eyes widening at the basket full of treats. ]
...That's really kind of you, Haitham. Thank you.
[ In the fact of such kindness, the old nickname slips out, and he looks up at the other with a small smile. Cheese and fruits aren't exactly the younger's thing, but... ]
Did you wanna share them with me?
[ As he talks, though, his eyes settle properly on the other man, and he can't help but notice the clothing he's wearing. Something new, to match with the gift basket he's brought with him. He looks good. And if he's got money, it means he's playing the game, looking after himself in all the important ways...
(Kaveh hates the odd feeling of jealousy that spikes in his gut.) ]
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Alhaitham is definitely playing the game. Not to the extent that many others are but enough to be able to afford to treat himself a little even while he maintains the low rank that allows him the lack of social distinction that he prefers. The dark grey slacks, smart shoes and black shirt open at the collar paired with a deep green, fitted waistcoat are all new, perhaps even bought that day, and Alhaitham wears the ensemble as if he has no idea how good it makes him look.]
Sure.
[He takes a seat, as comfortable as if this is his own place, and watches Kaveh examine the contents of the box. Alhaitham knows how the older man is with not taking proper care of himself even when he has the money to do so...]
Have as much as you want before you share any with me.
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So, even as he accepts the box and sets about putting it on the kitchenette counter, opening it up and putting the cheeses and fruits on a large plate with some crackers, muttering something about "nonsense, we'll share" in response to the younger's words, he watches him quietly for a moment, and he thinks...
Well, one good turn deserves another, no?
Kaveh places the platter down on the little coffee table and the wine next to it with a pair of glasses, making sure it's in perfect reach of both of them before taking a seat on the sofa and smiling up at the other. ]
You look really good, by the way.
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He waits, quite deliberately, until Kaveh picks something up off the platter first but he does acknowledge the compliment with a small incline of his head.]
Mm. Thanks.
[And then he tilts his head very slightly to one side, then the other, removing the earbuds that were tucked inside his ears and stowing them away in his pocket.]
I wanted to talk to you about something.
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He's lost in his own thoughts when the other man suddenly says he'd like to talk, and Kaveh's brain screeches to a halt faster than a sumpter beast drawn by the scent of a sweet flower. Now playing: kavehbrain.mp4.
A breath, and he inclines his head, looking at the other quietly.
Earbuds are off. This is serious. ]
Yeah?
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And he realises that the other man will immediately be on alert thanks to what he said... which is why he did not say it in a text, and he does not linger on drawing it out any further.]
I am assuming that, at the moment, you are sober and free of any aphrodisiac influences including any caused by your suit. [His voice is even and level, as calm as if he's reading off an academic paper.] I'm currently in the same state, and given the circumstances we have had to endure so far each time we've been intimate with each other, I propose that we take advantage of both being in our right minds and not under any kind of undue stress or pressure to perform.
[And that's probably not clear enough, so he adds, quite bluntly.]
I want to have sex. With you.
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Of course he is. Logic dictates as much. Alhaitham never says anything he doesn't mean. If the words are on his lips, they're genuine. Not to mention the nice clothing, the present... Archons preserve him, he's being wooedβ
The thought barely makes it through his mind before the younger man declares himself once more, this time in much more succinct language, and this time the cheese doesn't hold, drawn back into his airway in a sharp inhale, leaving him choking on it for a few seconds
(is there an award, he thinks, for the least sexy response to the least sexy proposition?)
He grabs for his glass, downing half of it in an effort to soothe the sudden burn in his throat. And if he stops halfway because of presence of mind, wanting to remain sober, well... ]
Archons. [ He looks up at Alhaitham, the bemusement written over his face. And perhaps it's just an effort to protect himself against the embarrassment of the moment, but he quips, voice little more than a snarky mutter: ] What happened to letting Teyvat burn, huh?
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More or less what he expected, really. The verbal response makes his eyebrows lift, one quirked slightly higher than the other.]
I think that particular ship has long since sailed, don't you?
[Within some minutes of him even uttering the words, in fact, and he resists the urge to roll his eyes that Kaveh would bring it up now, when they are already intimately familiar with one another in ways Alhaitham would never have anticipated, as if it's some kind of gotcha moment.]
If you're not interested, then just say so. We can just as easily wait until the next time the resort's machinations conspire to force us together.
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[ His answer is soft, perhaps a little too hot on the heels of "if you're not interested" for Kaveh to feel comfortable with it now and later. He straightens his shoulders and takes a deep breath, looking up at the other man with a small smile. ]
No, I... I'd like that. Now, not.. not next time the resort decides it's a good idea.
[ After all, Alhaitham is nothing but truthful. Their first time together was Kaveh worrying about his junior's existence here. Then the moments after that party, where Alhaitham lost control. Then the time in the spa, with his control at a hair's width. This is for all intents and purposes a good idea, and...
And he likes the idea.
He just... never would have imagined Alhaitham would be the one to suggest it. ]
Yeah.
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It's not really something Alhaitham has ever thought about before. Sex has never been a consideration of his and even on finding it to be physically enjoyable, that hadn't changed much. With Kaveh, though, it's different. Somehow, it's different. The fumbling agreement to his proposition plants a faint smile against one corner of his mouth.]
All right.
[It isn't as if he thought he'd be the one suggesting it either... but they'd be waiting for months if he left it to Kaveh to bring it up.]
Do you want to finish this first?
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(is that even true anymore?)
he should be the one feeling sure of himself and what he wants, but here they are, and yet again he feels like he's out of his depth with the other man, like somehow he's learned all the secrets there are to be discovered about this.
Swallowing, he shakes his head, offering the other a slight smile. ]
No, it... there's plenty, I can finish later.
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All right, then.
[It's different with nothing pushing them. No wild, uncontrollable urges or the weighty sense of necessity. Kaveh is close enough to him that he can see the individual flecks of colour in the architect's eyes and for a moment he lingers there, taking in the sight, before that little smile twitches at his lips again.
All right, then.
He kisses Kaveh softly, warmly, more experienced now than he was the first time. His fingers splay wide against the small of the other man's back, palm pressing to the base of his spine, and only after a few seconds have passed does he even attempt to deepen the kiss to something more.
Though he can taste the wine on Kaveh's tongue it isn't unpleasant at all. He keeps him held in close, taking soft and measured breaths each time they part for a snatch of air.]
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Oh, Kaveh realizes, he's had practice.
In the moment, though, such a realization doesn't sting the way it would have just seconds before, when those lips weren't already on his, kissing away the frustrations and the strange, unfamiliar bolts of jealousy. His own arms move to circle Alhaitham's waist, holding him comfortably close as he sighs into his mouth, answering the deepened kiss with his own. The younger man is better at this than he was at the start, the strong softness of his hand somehow enough to ground Kaveh in the moment, chase away all the discomfort and unpleasantness that was trying to clamber all over his brain just moments before.
In fact, his thoughts are so shattered off and scattered to the winds that he's forgotten even the pretty, lacy lingerie he wears under his clothes, victims of being tried on when he had an unexpected visitor suddenly announce himself. His focus is on Alhaitham and Alhaitham alone, on the delightful taste of the other's mouth on his, the sensation of those fingers at his sides. ]
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It feels more normal. More like him, for as much as acts like these can feel like him when he had only recently begun to give them any consideration at all.
When they finally draw apart Alhaitham pulls in a quick breath then takes Kaveh by the hand, tugging him lightly over to his bed. He sits, slides his hands down the backs of Kaveh's thighs to the bends of his knees, then eases the older man forwards onto his lap.
Alhaitham looks up at him with something that could almost be called curiosity.]
Fine so far?
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And that's so ridiculous, he thinks. This is Alhaitham, whom he's known for so many years that he should no longer be capable of being surprised by himβ
(Although as a scholar, Kaveh is confident that the resort and its machinations would be considered an unpredictable outlier.)
He shakes the thoughts from his head though when the younger man's fingers tighten on his to draw him to the bed, when fingers curve at his thighs to tug him into a waiting lap, and the question on Alhaitham's lips have him almost bemused for a moment, a tilt of his head as he looks at the other man, reaches up to run fingers down the side of that sharp jaw. ]
You don't have to check on me. [ Because he likes it when he does, and that's dangerous. ] I promise I'll tell you if I don't want something.
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I will hold you to that.
[Since he promised, and all.
Alhaitham huffs a soft breath out as his hands push slowly up Kaveh's thighs from his knees to his hips, faint pressure in the grip as they slide along the fabric of his pants before the scribe's long fingers spread against the older man's ass and pull him close enough to fit their bodies snugly together.
He could ask Kaveh what he likes but he thinks he already has a good idea even through their somewhat tumultuous sexual relationship so far. His thumbs press slightly along the lines of his partner's hipbones as he pauses, considering his next move.
Though this position does not lend itself to easy access to anything further, he finds it oddly appealing. Alhaitham moves one hand up, curling his forefinger beneath Kaveh's chin and using that light, simple contact to guide him down into another kiss.]
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But Kaveh remembers the shattered look on the younger man's face, hears the quiet sounds of his guilt in the moments after, and he knows he can't do that againβ when he promises, he means it, and he'll hold the both of them to it.
Not that he has to, right now, because he wants this. There's a sigh on his lips at the press against his hipbones, at the feeling of that curious hand tracing under his chin to nudge him into a kiss that makes his toes curl and his lips part in pleasure as he returns it with a soft sigh. His arms wind around the younger's shoulders, doing his part to draw him in nearer. This approach is newer to him than before, something that hasn't come between them before.
He doesn't mind it. ]
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Kaveh's arms wrap around him and their lips part against each other, and Alhaitham settles into the rush of pleasant goosebumps over his skin and the slow curl of warmth in the pit of his stomach. No need to rush at all.
It's nice.
A few minutes later, when the heat gathering in him has made its way up to his head and lightly fuzzed the edges of his thoughts, he pulls back to take a quick breath. He looks up at Kaveh with an unreadable emotion in his eyes as he finally slips both hands up beneath his top, sliding fabric against skin to push it off.]
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It's nice, it's perfect, and when the younger man draws back for a breath, Kaveh's eyes flutter open, a slow smile forming on his lips at the look on the scribe's faceβ
and then hands slip under his top and in that very same moment, everything comes crashing down: Kaveh remembers what he's wearing under this, the change he should have made but did not, the feeling of lace and satin against his skin even as he recoils from those gentle hands. ]
W-wait! I. I, uh. I got dressed in a hurry, and there's...
[ Archons, this is embarrassing. The lingerie wasn't meant for Alhaitham, and deep down Kaveh knows the younger man probably won't form any sort of opinion on it, good or bad, but... ]
I'm wearing something kind of unusual under this, and I didn't have time to change out of it so.. do you want me to just.. I can go change now...?
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And Kaveh is right - he doesn't really have an opinion on it either way.]
You can do whatever makes you comfortable.
[The meaning is clear enough. It wouldn't be for Alhaitham's comfort that Kaveh gets up and changes, but the younger man is quite willing to let him up without protest if he wants to go and do it anyway. He isn't trying to keep him from getting up despite his hands still resting on him.]
It's fine if you want to change. I can wait.
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He takes a deep breath, leans forward to press a soft kiss into the younger man's mouth, then something slower and deeper as he breathes into it, allows himself to relax. ]
I'm okay, [ he whispers. ] If you don't mind, then I don't mind either.
[ He's surprised to find that he means it. ]
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[Alhaitham just-barely smiles as he lifts his hands again, catching the fabric of Kaveh's top and pushing it up and off his head. His fingertips briefly trail against the soft skin of the inside of the older man's upper arms... and then lightly against the lace all but clinging to his ribs.
He told Kaveh that he does not experience physical attraction like most people and that remains true in spite of his apparent interest in sex itself. His judgement of attractiveness is a matter of aesthetics, as ever, and his attention lingers on the lingerie for a few moments.]
Colour theory? [The scribe murmurs, glancing up to meet Kaveh's eyes.] Complementary. [Then, after another quiet pause.] You would suit red, too.
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I... I actually have a similar pair in red, too. [ The admission comes somewhat bashfully, paired with the barest beginnings of a heated flush across his cheeks in response to the younger's complimentary words. ] I chose the red ones first, and then got these too.
[ That latter point isn't entirely true. The teal ones were chosen for him, but he's not about to express as much in the middle of this moment between them. Kaveh may be honest, but he's learned his lesson there.
(And it's not like he owes Alhiatham an explanation anyway, so he's not sure why he feels like he does.) ]
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Kaveh gets another kiss before he's tipped onto the bed, Alhaitham still fully dressed as he crawls over him and lowers his head to brush his lips to the centre of the older man's chest. Though he keeps his eyes lowered the fact that this particular shade of teal is very close to the colour of his irises has not escaped him in the least. Did Kaveh pick these too, he wonders idly, then just as quickly pushes that thought aside.
He sits up, gaze raking down the length of Kaveh's torso, warm fingertips brushing the soft skin of his stomach. The touch trails down the centre of the blond's abdomen to the dip of his navel then tracks along the waist of his pants. Alhaitham glances up, not verbally checking in on Kaveh but clearly doing it visually, but he seems satisfied by whatever he sees.]
Are you going to behave for me? [The young man says softly, his free hand working the buttons of his waistcoat open.] You can do that, can't you, Kaveh.
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And then he's asked is he going to behave, and the architect's blood runs dangerously south, and every last part of him wants to nod, wants to agree with the scribe's assertion, to bend to him, to be good so he can hear the other praise him the way he's come to realize he quite likes...
But he's also Alhaitham, gentle and tender or not, and there's that one part of Kaveh that won't allow this to pass without a challenge, a tilt of his head as he openly admires the younger undoing his own waistcoat. ]
Mm...
[ His voice is too dry. He clears his throat, licks his lips, tries again. ]
Maybe. What happens if I don't?
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The result is undeniable however.
He leaves the waistcoat on but unbuttoned and meets Kaveh's gaze at his response. The small muscles around his eyes pinch. Alhaitham leans down, bracing one elbow beside Kaveh's head and lightly taking hold of his chin with the other hand.
The scribe leans in like he's going to kiss him again but stops short.]
Are you going to try to find out?
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The barest hint of defiance finds him, a question on his lips, and suddenly Alhaitham is close, breath gusting over his lips like a promise Kaveh knows he won't allow himself to meet just yet, the blonde's chin captive in his hand as those emerald eyes meet his with something serious, some kind of...
Archons, he can't even tell. The only thing he knows for sure is that he should cave for now, agree to play a more obedient role.
And yet.
He licks his lips, considering, and a hint of a smile curves at the corners of his lips. ]
Mm, perhaps... I'm a scholar, after all. What kind of scholar doesn't take the chance to test the outcomes of behaving versus not? [ A hand lifts, skates along the side of Alhaitham's face as Kaveh chuckles softly. ] If anything, you should be admiring my dedication to academia.
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[Ah, and he should fix that, no?
Alhaitham does not give further time to trying to extract a spoken promise from Kaveh. It seems that the man has decided to be difficult... and Alhaitham can work with that. It's hardly different to how he behaves on a normal day, after all.
Rather than kiss his lips he pushes his head to one side and nips at his neck. The bite isn't hard, but certainly enough to leave a mark.
He works his way down after that. Kaveh's collar bones, the curve of his ribs. He teases the stiff nub of one nipple through lace with the pad of his thumb. Lower still to the soft, warm skin of his stomach and then he's sliding Kaveh's pants off, scraping his fingernails deliberately down the outsides of his thighs as he draws the fabric down.
What he finds under them is not a surprise. What does surprise him is that he's interested enough to take a moment to look.
Though only a moment. He shifts back up to take Kaveh's wrist and push them up over his head.]
Will you keep them here or do I need to restrain you?
[Are you going to behave, Kaveh?]
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If you don't want me to have breath to talk, take it away.
[ Is it a challenge? Maybe, but one he very quickly reconsiders as his wrist is taken, both of them caught and pushed above his head.
Will you keep them hereβ?
And it would be so, so easy to say yes, to give in to him. But he remembers already: Alhaitham likes to take his time exploring, and Kavehβ Kaveh likes wants craves the praise but doesn't want to make it too easy for him either, andβ
(And there are other considerations too, things he's wanted to try out...)
He lifts his chin, a glint of a challenge in his eyes, and Kaveh immediately tugs a hand free of him so he can thread it around Alhaitham's neck in the attempt to pull him down into a kiss. ]
If you wanna be certain, [ he breathes, ] there are handcuffs in the top drawer.
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He hums softly, shooing Kaveh's hands away from him before he moves to lean over and open the drawer, quickly locating and pulling the cuffs out. There wasn't so much as a moment of hesitation in making that decision, it seems, and this time when he pushes the older man's arms up it is with a little more determined force.
One side of the cuffs is gently slipped over a wrist, clicking closed around it. He loops the chain around the headrail of the bed and then meets the architect's eyes as he fully restrains him.]
As you wish.
[You chose this, Kaveh. He won't have any whining about sore wrists.
Once satisfied that the man is now held in place he sits back, raking his gaze down the length of Kaveh's body. He's...
Hm.
Alhaitham shrugs off his waistcoat, though only partly shifts his eyes away. Something about this is still faintly unsettling, though he can't put his finger on what it is that's bothering him.]
... If I do something you don't like, say so. [He says then, sliding a hand around the curve of Kaveh's waist.] Agreed?
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(and Archons, the visible movement of muscle under the soft material of that shirt...)
βas he reminds the blonde to say something if he's not okay.
Mm... it's about that other time, isn't it?
If he could, he'd reach to reassure him, but he's just ensured that he absolutely cannot do that. Therein lies the regret, even as the thrill of being captive to him runs down his spine, and Kaveh offers Alhaitham a small, reassuring smile, a little jingle of his wrists against the headrail. ]
Do you know what a safeword is? [ he asks, and then without any hesitation continues to explain: ] It's a word we can choose that if either of us says, everything stops. It's designed for moments like these, because... [ He's brought momentarily to another encounter, one he won't detailβ he's learningβ but that taught him a few things nonetheless. ] Sometimes in the moment you say things like "wait" or "stop" or "no" but don't actually mean it. So...
[ He takes a breath, thinking. ] "Alcazarzaray." [ It's long, complicated, and there's no way he's gonna be calling it out in the middle of sex for any other reason. ] If I say "Alcazarzaray", it means I want you to stop. Okay?
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Because of course it would.
He listens, his eyes never leaving the other man's as he explains, and while he had not been aware of that concept in this context he catches on quickly and nods.]
All right. [And, satisfied with that, he leans in to give Kaveh another of those soft, lingering kisses. He can trust that Kaveh will speak up if he feels like he needs to, he thinks... they do have that understanding.
The contrast between them right now isn't lost on him. Kaveh in his flatteringly coloured lingerie and Alhaitham almost still entirely dressed. Alhaitham shifts down and tugs one of Kaveh's knees over his shoulder, pushing his knee up as he brushes a line of teasing kisses down the inside of the opposite thigh.]
You look good like this. [He murmurs then, almost thoughtfully.
Pretty.]
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Frustration brought almost immediately by the way Alhaitham lifts his knee and starts to pepper kisses down the inside of his thigh, the blonde's hips trembling and trying to lift slightly under the sudden sensation. He whimpers,
and then comes the kicker, soft words that make his eyes widen, his breath catch in his throat. Heβ ]
...Really? I do?
[ His voice is soft, but edged with a surprising heaviness, eyes averted in a way that will tell Alhaitham (as if he doesn't already know) that Kaveh asks from a genuine place, not from one of greed or desire. He's not sure what he was expecting, but it wasn't that, and he hates the way his stomach does a stupid little flip-flop at the words, leaving his mouth dry. ]
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Mm. You can wear the red one next time.
[There are several implications there, all of them bluntly obvious to someone who knows Alhaitham as well as Kaveh does, but delivered as ever with the quiet, casual tone of someone with barely any idea of the kind of impact that those particular words can have.
He likes how Kaveh looks like this, he realises. Like appreciating a piece of art wound together with the anticipation of what's to come.
Alhaitham sits back and unbuttons his shirt, taking his time, maintaining eye contact all the while. The mark of his suit is calm and pale now, barely visible, and once he sets the shirt aside he moves to his belt, lingering on the buckle.]
And don't bother to hide it.
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Regardless of how calmly the scribe speaks, so many things sit just under the surface of those words: not just the reaffirmation that he thinks Kaveh looks good, but the statement that he wants to see him in the other outfits he purchased; the implication of another next time; the instruction not to hide himself away.
All this, paired with the way he leans back, unbuttoning his shirt in the slowest, most torturous of ways, revealing the pale, toned skin underneath in a way that has Kaveh wetting his too-dry lips.
And Kaveh, who often has his words stolen in the face of the other man, finds himself in the same situation as always, but a much more pleasant version, a shy smile on his lips and a flush on his cheeks as he nods. ]
...Okay. I'll, uh.. keep that in mind. For next time.
[ And then, his smile turning more playful, he adds: ]
You should just dress like this. Shirt off, I mean.
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[Alhaitham is not an exhibitionist and has no intentions of becoming one for the sake of Kaveh's whims, but if the man wants to see him shirtless while it's just the two of them..? He doesn't see the harm. Kaveh has already seen far more of him than his bare chest.
With his belt discarded and his trousers quickly following Alhaitham finally shifts closer to the other man and kisses him again, bare skin on bare skin as they press together. He slides one firm thigh up between Kaveh's legs, biting gently against the man's lower lip and then smiling a little.]
Tell me what you like.
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Mm. Who cares? The blonde's brain is quick to banish the thought when the younger man shifts out of his trousers and brings himself in close again to kiss him, eagerly returning the pressure of his lipsβ and gasping an answer when his lip is bitten at the same time as a knee slides up between his thighs.
That smileβ
And those words, asking a question Kaveh's not entirely sure he can answer, because...
On one side, perhaps, he's still learning these things for himself in some ways, and too hesitant to say what it is he's wanting to try. The reverse of that is that his body seems to like everything Alhaitham does anyway, so.
Though... there is that one thing, which...
Kaveh's nose wrinkles. ]
Promise me you won't laugh.
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Alhaitham's eyebrows lift slightly. He does wonder on which occasion Kaveh has ever actually heard him outright laugh at anything he said, though he does realise that the other man may not actually mean it literally. He makes a soft sound, shifting away and straightening up a little.]
I promise I won't laugh.
[And maybe those words, that phrasing, would sound a bit strange coming from him... but it seems to be important, and even more strangely, he finds that it is important for him to know the answer.]
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I... like it whenβ um. I guess I like praise. Nice things being said to me.
[ His eyes shift to the side, cheeks heating with fresh embarrassment. ]
I also like it when I don't have to think. [ A pause as, not for the first time, he amends that to be more honest: ] When I'm not able to think.
[ He knows that saying all of this is giving Alhaitham a lot of power, but... he asked. ]
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... Figures.]
You know well enough that I'm not someone who gives false praise.
[Or much praise at all, usually. He doesn't think he could do it under these circumstances without it feeling far too awkward, but as luck would have it when it comes to Kaveh, he doesn't really find a need to pretend.
He pauses a moment, letting his attention travel over Kaveh's body.]
So when I tell you that I like how you look, you know I mean it.
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[ The answer is quick on Kaveh's lips, and as soft as his expression as his eyes settle on Alhaitham's face again. It's true that he has less issue accepting praise when it's in the bedroom, and yet even with that being true, and even knowing what he does, was he not still hesitant over the other's statement that he looks good as he is now?
And he wonders if the younger man thinks Kaveh doesn't trust him. Which isn't trueβ ]
If I sound like I'm doubting you, I'm.. I'm not. Not you. I just... You know how I am, it'sβ
[ He falls silent for a moment, and the look he offers the other man is soft and pleading and frustrated, not at the situation but at himself. ]
Please come here.
[ Just make his brain shut upβ ]
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I know how you are.
[And he does, doesn't he? He knows how Kaveh is. All the difficult, complicated facets of his personality, the way he responds to situations, how he acts when faced with a challenge. He knows Kaveh inside and out and not only because of how long they have been acquainted or because they have lived together but because Kaveh, for Alhaitham, is easy to read.
He slides a hand up one of Kaveh's arms as he kisses him again. His fingertips press across the man's palm, then their fingers lace together as he presses that hand gently against the pillows.
Alhaitham's lips part, as if he's going to make a comment, but then they close again as he thinks better of it and only smiles faintly before giving the blond man's hand a faint squeeze. He kisses him once more before sitting back to remove his underwear, idly tossing it over the side of the bed once he has.
Pretty or not, it was still in the way.]
Ready?
[He is. Alhaitham knows he is. He's been ready and the scribe doesn't tease him by waiting for a response. The lube is found easily - the same place - and he holds Kaveh's hips steady with one hand while he rubs two slicked fingers slowly against his entrance.
Maybe a little teasing.]
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It's what made him walk away from their friendship, it's what has him even now hold the younger man at arm's length every time he shows an inkling of care. It's always been the only way to protect himselfβ
And yet here he is, spread willingly under the other, unable to do anything but accept him... all of his own choice.
The kiss is a welcome distractionβ it doesn't last anywhere near long enough, but with his arms connected to the headrail, there's not much he can do about it other than pout. It's a pout too that has more meanings than the one, because the scribe is being something of a tease, rubbing those two fingers against him in a way that has the blonde squirming, a stuttered out whine on his lips. ]
Isn't it obvious? [ he bites out, and he knows the answer is yes, knows Alhaitham knows and is teasing him anyway. ] Of course I'm ready.
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It's different already. Far removed from the times they have been thrown together by their desperate, driven urges but even, too, from the other times, when it was almost because they wanted to.
Almost, but not quite. Not like this deliberate choice.
There could be said to be the faintest quirk of a smile as Alhaitham concedes, curling his index finger in to his palm and pressing the middle finger inside. He seems to watch for a moment, as if fascinated, then turns his attention to kisses.
Kissing Kaveh is turning out to be a very enjoyable pastime.]
If I let your hands go, what would you do? [He questions quietly as his finger curls in deep, looking for just the right spot.]
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And then the scribe is breaking the kisses to ask questions, and the blonde is blinking in overwhelmed confusion, frustration curving his lips downward for the barest of moments before the brush of that curved finger finds exactly the right spot and has a moan sneaking out of him unbidden, eyelids fluttering as he peers up at Alhaitham in silence for a moment or two.
What would he do? What wouldn't he doβ ]
I'd touch you. [ His voice is low. Hushed and trembling. ] Take my time exploring you and.. mm, and find the places you like the most. That feel the best for you too. And I'd... kiss you more often tooβ sometimes I want to kiss you but you're sitting up and I can'tβ
[ He stops, almost abruptly, before he can ramble too much more. ]
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Hm...
[He notices how Kaveh almost seems to cut himself off. How he retreats from that thought before he can finish it. And he wonders...
Dismisses the thought.
He can move away less.]
Once I'm done with you... do you think you'll still have the energy to take me?
[It's less a question and more like an offer as he teases a second finger alongside the first and eases it in.]
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He's forced to take a moment to catch his breath, but then he nods. ]
I will. Even if I have to rest for a few minutes first.
[ Another breath, another roll of his hips against those fingers. ]
Are youβ mm, are you finding you have a preference?
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[It takes him a moment to understand, distracted as he is right now, but even then he doesn't immediately answer. A preference..?
Truth be told he hasn't thought about it much. There are a couple of things he's found that he does enjoy more than others, but when it comes down to it it seems to be more about the person he's with than anything else. He gives a small shake of his head.]
Not really. [But, this. The slow arch of Kaveh's body as it reacts to the stimulation. How his breathing shivers and his voice shakes as he tries to speak. The little moans between words. Alhaitham has already realised that he likes that, but also that he likes it because it's Kaveh, not because he enjoys those things in isolation.
If it was anyone else, would he care that much? He knows himself well enough to realise that he wouldn't.
His fingers slide in deep again, a slick and wet sound accompanying the motion, but Alhaitham is not listening. His mouth is on Kaveh's again, lips parting and their tongues curling together. He shifts his thigh up between the older man's legs to give him something to grind against.]
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He takes the offer of the younger's thigh, too, hips rolling down in a way that his cock drags heavy against it, eliciting a whine that disappears into the tangle of their tongues. There's a soft jingle as his wrists tug unbidden against their bonds, his body trying to follow through on its natural urge to wind arms around him, to pull him close as they kiss.
It's different this time somehow, Kaveh can feel that tooβ and perhaps that's why his brain is fighting him so much, trying to build barricades wherever it can. Before, his self-protection came from the fact that they needed to, but this time... ]
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He pulls back, briefly kisses Kaveh's lips again, then deliberately rolls his fingertips over the man's prostate.]
Good boy. [Alhaitham murmurs gently. He is not one for false or insincere praise and has been quietly thinking his way through how he might like to present it, how Kaveh might like to hear it from him, and he thinks he can make it work.
The tone is a soft, sincere one as he speaks into the small space between their lips.]
You're doing so well for me. [Their eyes meet. He softly bumps the tips of their noses together.] So well-behaved.
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Good boy, Alhaitham says then, and the bliss of release comes to an abrupt halt, Kaveh's eyes openingβ and opening wide. A new flush of red works over his cheeks, dying them crimson as his body tightens in pleasure, a whimper on his lips as he clenches down around those fingers, dizzyingly close to an orgasm from those words alone.
Oh, fuck. This is a power he should never have introduced Alhaitham to, isn't it? ]
Iβ Iβ um.
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And it isn't as if he has never been close enough to the other man to notice the colour of his eyes before. He could pick the shade off a swatch if he had to, along with the man's hair colour and his preferences in clothing. The colour of them is not new to him but what is new is the sensation that flushes through him as that colour all but fills his vision.
It isn't just the one thing. A combination of everything rolls together. Alhaitham lightly cups the side of Kaveh's jaw and speaks softly, sincerely.]
Your eyes are beautiful.
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His eyesβ
Another tremor passes through him, another physical tightening of his muscles down around those fingers, even slowed as they are now. A soft whine forms on his lips, and he can't quite help the way his head tosses to the side, an instinctive rejection of the compliment offered to him by the other man. ]
N-no, no Iβ stop that..
[ The words are muttered, an attempt to get away from the situation that doesn't follow his own rulesβ not once is the name of his magnum opus even thought of, much less spoken into being. Just something else he'll have cause to wonder about later. ]
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[The way his fingers push in deeply is almost like a scolding punishment and he holds the stinging pressure there for a moment before he moves them again. His free hand guides Kaveh's head back around and although he feels something in the pit of his stomach jolt at the word 'stop' he remembers what they spoke of earlier.
Is this like that, then? Kaveh knows the word to use if he really wants things to halt. Alhaitham isn't sure how he feels about it but shakes that uncertainty off for the moment. There's no harm in what they're doing now.]
They are. I've never considered it before. [He pauses, then lightly kisses him again. His heart races almost painfully in his chest, sticking in his throat.] You're beautiful.
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Not just his eyes, now, but him too? Kaveh doesn't feel beautiful, what with his mussed hair and blown-out eyes and ruddied red cheeks. His voice dies in his throat before he can argue though, pressing up into the kiss even as he feels breathless, closing his eyes against the tears he can feel prickling at their corners. ]
I.. Alhaitham, youβ
[ For the first time in years, the exclamation of "you" on Kaveh's tongue is not made with a tone laced in anger. Rather, it's shaken and unsure, overwhelmed by the sensations and the words both. ]
You don't have toβ
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[He interrupts smoothly, quietly, cutting Kaveh off with another kiss. His chest aches again, strangely, and the briefest consideration that this entire thing was a mistake flits through his mind before it is just as quickly dismissed. He doesn't think so. Maybe it was something that they both needed.
Alhaitham glances up at where Kaveh's hands are cuffed up to the headrail, and decides that he doesn't like that right now. The older man would find his wrists released, and the scribe lightly guiding one of his arms up around him.]
I want you to hold on to me.
[His hand goes back to Kaveh's face, cradling it gently as he carefully adds a third finger to the two already thrusting into him.]
... I want to see your face when you fall apart.
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He answers the other's statement with a low moan, one half inspired by his words and half by the addition a third finger, his hips rutting down against the intrusion.
His breath quickens, and his eyes open once more to look up into Alhaitham's face, revealing the sheen of wet over them even as his look gains a hint of desperation, a bite of his lower lip. ]
Pleaseβ please tell me you don't intend to do that just with your fingers.
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The younger man realises his thoughts are repeating and draws himself back to the present, lightly smoothing his thumb across Kaveh's cheek. He exhales a soft, breathy chuckle.]
If you climax from just this, then it's fine... [It seems he might intend just that as he slowly spreads his fingers inside the man and then rubs up against that spot again. Something in the back of his mind is impatient, but he doesn't let it take over.]
We don't have to stop if you do.
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His lips part to attempt to stage a protest, but then fingers press over that one damn spot again, and he cries out instead, head tilting back against the pillow, eyelids fluttering and draping over his eyes as he whines. ]
Alhaithamβ
[ Fuck. Fuck, he's so close, and it feels like they've barely started, and Alhaitham is right here, and being so nice, andβ ]
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[He might get better at it over time. Alhaitham is not someone incapable of passion and emotion, as Kaveh well knows, but it tends to be viewed as a complication that he would rather just keep out of his life entirely.
Though, at one time, he would have said the same of what he's doing right now. Some things have changed quickly here.
He doesn't think that Kaveh will last even if they move on quickly now and so, rather than do that, he curls his fingers in again and aims for that same spot inside that made him moan like that.]
Just let it happen, Kaveh.
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For a moment, his eyes close, and then open again, half-lidded, lips parted with his panted breaths and soft whines.
It takes him a few seconds to regain himself enough to curl fingers into the younger man's hair, tugging him close into a kiss, slow and sweet as he catches his breath. ]
Haitham..
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Good?
[Not a question that really needs to be answered he thinks, but he asks it with the smallest touch of a smile at the corners of his mouth.]
Kaveh... [His expression turns thoughtful then, quietly curious, one hand weaving into his hair and rubbing idly at his scalp with blunt fingertips.] I want to do something with you that no one else has. Can you think of anything like that?
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The haze is just starting to clear when the younger poses a new question of him, something that has the blonde blinking in confusion. Something he's never done with anyone else? The list is... embarrassingly small, and those things he hasn't done but wants to are those that seem somehow wrong for this particular moment.
But there's an odd feeling in his gut, a reluctance to tell Alhaitham "no", and so the scribe will see crimson eyes narrow in the same thoughtful expression as Kaveh mulls over a few options.
He's not sure he really wants to make himself any more vulnerable than he's already feeling right now, so... ]
Do you trust me? [ His voice is soft, a little shaky despite what he's about to suggest. ] I... there's something I... I'd like to try edging you.
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The question makes him look up, meeting Kaveh's eyes with faint surprise. Does he trust him? Kaveh has never asked him that question and Alhaitham had never thought he would need to.
Of course he trusts him. He trusts Kaveh as someone who knows him better than anyone. As a person who acts as a mirror to himself, keeping him connected to the world in a way that no one else can. As someone that he would place his life in the hands of, if there was ever a need to do so, and know it would be well taken care of.
What he actually asks feels like nothing in comparison.]
... All right.
[A little thrill of anticipatory excitement burns in him for a moment.]
Then do that.
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Instead, he replies in the affirmative, and for a moment the blonde is taken off-guard. ]
Okay.
[ His answer is quiet, almost hesitant, but then he sits up, drawing the other with him and moving to nudge him back against the bed instead, hands drawing those strong arms above Alhaitham's head. ]
Your turn to keep them up here. [ His head tilts, momentarily playful. ] The cuffs are right there. I'll use them if I have to.
[ And then, after a moment, the seriousness coming back into his face and voice: ]
Remember, the word is Alcazarzaray. Alright?
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His eyes don't leave the other man's for a moment - quiet, calm, trusting as he looks at him - then he gives a small nod.]
I haven't forgotten.
[He might have brought Kaveh to climax once already but Alhaitham's only relief so far has been in the occasional chafing of his still-clothed cock against Kaveh's thigh. He's painfully turned on and it shows even through the fitted fabric of his trousers, and even more so as Kaveh moves him over onto his back.
He isn't embarrassed, but he does briefly glance down at himself.]
If you wouldn't mind... The clothes are new, and I don't want to have to have them professionally cleaned already.
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You should dress like this more often.
[ The statement comes without much room for thought on Kaveh's side, a small smile on his lips as his hand moves to the front of Alhaitham's crotch to rub over it slowly as his kisses work their way down the other's chest. ]
You looked kind of like a librarian from Mondstadt or something.
[ Then, he sits again, pulling back to watch as both hands start to work on undoing his pants, a curious tilt of his head as he looks up at the other man's face again. ]
Are "no biting" rules still in place, Haitham?
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His breathing hitches softly, drawn in between his teeth as the stimulation of the other man's hand makes his hips twitch, and his fingers briefly tighten around the headrail.]
If it's below my collar, you can bite me anywhere you please.
[That had always been the rule, though in fairness he had not clarified it the first time he had told Kaveh not to bite him. He shifts his hips in subconscious anticipation of having his pants pulled off.]
Unless you have a driving need to mark what's yours.
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And yet, he thinks, as he works to pull the other's pants down and over his hips, catching his underwear with them so that the scribe's arousal can lift free of its confines (making Kaveh bite his lip as his eyes are drawn), and yet right now are they not doing something explicitly for the two of them? Something he's never done beforeβ something he presumes Alhaitham has never done before?
Doesn't that, in some small way, make Alhaitham his? ]
Don't be stupid.
[ The words are almost spat out, but the anger is more at himself than it is Alhaitham. With a sigh, he drops his mouth to leave kisses over the other man's chest, and at the same time he takes his erection into his hand, starting to please it with smooth, quick strokes. ]
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[Stupid, hm? Seems that Kaveh has already forgotten the words and actions that he showed in the baths when Alhaitham was riding on him and he tried to claim the man as his own.
Conveniently forgotten... perhaps not forgotten at all. Alhaitham flexes his fingers slightly against the headrail again and breathes out a quiet exhale, his brow furrowing just slightly as Kaveh kisses across his chest and takes hold of his cock. He swallows, the next inhale shuddering slightly.]
Regardless, I meant what I said.
[Anything below the collar is fair game.]
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Still, he smiles at the other's words, and nods. If something not visible is fair game, then he already knows what he wants to do; he straightens up just enough that he can shift down to the other's legs, starting to pump him slowly as he lowers his mouth to Alhaitham's thigh.
Like this, he can attack the skin with kisses and bites, suck it between his lips to bully it with his tongue. All the while, his hand continues to move, finding a steady pace, fingers tightening and easing just a little with each stroke, exploring over his tip and smudging through the precum. ]
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He touches Kaveh's hair.
Gently, at first. The other man may not even notice how Alhaitham's fingertips skim over blond locks, but then his fingers lightly weave into them and lightly grip, just enough to be felt but not enough for force Kaveh's head to move at all.
And should Kaveh take that moment to look at him he would find Alhaitham flushed, his pupils large and dark, sweat darkening the small wisps of ashen grey at his hairline.]
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He told Alhaitham he wasn't allowed to touch, that he had to keep his hands up against the headrail.
It's barely been minutes, and there are fingers in his hair, weaving and gripping, and crimson eyes shoot up to meet the other's face.
What he finds there completely takes away his ability to be unhappy about it. A shaky breath gusts over the bruise he's left on the scribe's thigh, heart clenching in his chest as he reaches up to gently touch the other's wrist. ]
What did I say about no touching, mm Haitham?
[ But there really is no anger in his voice. He sits up, gently moves the other's hand back to the headrail, and holds it against it for a silent moment or two. ]
If you touch me again, I really will put the cuffs on you.
[ He shifts back to where he was, another breath over the skin. ]
I wanna do it the first time with my mouth. Any complaints?
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And he absolutely does not regret it.
His brow furrows softly at the question. Kaveh has suggested this before, more than once, and each time Alhaitham has refused because the idea of it just did not appeal to him. Even now he isn't sure, not really, but the thought of the older man's mouth on his cock sends a tingle of anticipation across his skin. He swallows, watching him for a moment, then shakes his head.]
Only a compromise.
[And he moves his hand down from where Kaveh had pushed it back up to the headrail, lightly brushing his fingertips to the blond man's jaw.]
I want to touch you.
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(And the funny part is that it's less about getting to finally please Alhaitham with his mouth and more about the fact that the scribe apparently wants to touch him enough that he would bargain for it.)
Kaveh pushes that thought aside and licks his lips, pausing to nod up at Alhaitham. ]
Okay. But just my hair and my face for now, alright?
[ And he waits, pausing his ministrations and movements while he does, perhaps a little to tease the other man, but also because he's not sure he can focus on any answer the other should give when preparing to go down on him. ]
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Mm. That is all I want.
[No grabbing, no pushing, only the light touch of his fingers in Kaveh's hair. He brushes his fingertips over the blond locks, tracking the movement of his hand for a moment before his gaze shifts back as Kaveh pauses.]
... What is it?
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No, it's nothing. I was just waiting to hear what you said. I want you to be able to focus completely on this, after all. Show you what you've been missing.
[ The words are cheeky, not quite matching his toneβ his tone, laced with uncertainty because why should he have lost himself over something as small as this? And why is he thinking so much about how he needs to blow Alhaitham's mind with his efforts?
No pun intended.
Another smile, and Kaveh leans over him, hand cupping and stroking lightly around the base of his shaft as his mouth closes over the tip, tongue flickering over the skin and tasting. ]
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Admittedly, there is something enticing about having the older man between his thighs like that. The image is definitely not an unpleasant one.
Still, he twitches and makes a soft sound, his expression pinching as Kaveh's mouth closes around the tip of his cock. He inhales sharply, his hand tightening around the headrail while the other stays resting lightly on the other man's head, unable to deny the definite tingle of pleasure that sparks through him at the sensation.
It's different to being inside him or having a hand around his length. Warm and wet. His brow furrows slightly as his legs shift restlessly for a moment, heels digging against the bed sheets.
But he doesn't say anything, so Kaveh can assume that he's fine for now. Alhaitham hasn't taken his eyes off him yet.]
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Maybe that's why he needs it to be amazing.
Part of him wants to watch the expressions play out over Alhaitham's face, but for now at least he can't help the way his eyes close as he starts to work himself slowly against him, staying just around the head at first and then dipping slightly lower, taking him slowly deeper as he explores every last inch of skin with lips and tongue in turn. Where his mouth doesn't yet reach, his fingers continue slowly stroking, matching his exploratory pace.
He hums his content as his tongue swipes out over the head again, tasting the precum beading at the slit. This is what he wantedβ ]
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He does not like this.
The shivers racing across him give way to an uncomfortable sensation of his skin crawling as he shifts again, nudges his palm against Kaveh's forehead and then fully pushes him back. Alhaitham half sits up, his gaze wavering and uncharacteristically unsure as he shakes his head.]
Stop.
[Truth be told he does have an idea of why Kaveh has been so insistent on it. Maybe for anyone else it would be a grand experience, but for Alhaitham himself the lack of appeal is showing itself quite clearly in the evident waning of his arousal.
He frowns, trying to work through his own thoughts.]
I don'tβ... I don't want that from you. Or anyone.
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I'm sorryβ
[ But he falls silent again because Alhaitham is talking.
I don't want that from you. Or anyone.
He swallows hard, looking up at him with a small smile, even as it quavers on his lips. It's not about him, he has to tell himself. It's not that Alhaitham doesn't want him. It's something about the sensation, it's not a rejection..
It's not a rejection.
A deep breath, and his smile strengthens, something genuine and gentle. ]
Okay. That's okay. [ Maybe later he'll ask him about it, find out what it is he doesn't like so that he knows for the future. But right now he doesn't wanna spoil the mood, soβ ]
Will you tell me what you do want from me?
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What does he want? In real terms sex has held so little space in his thoughts over the years that he has never given much consideration to that kind of question. He's learning all kinds of things these days. What he likes and doesn't like in settings far more intimate than he ever imagined himself in.
So, what does he want?
He sits up straight and takes hold of one of Kaveh's hands, only lightly snagging it. His fingers don't take grip but trail down the man's forearm instead, ghosting across his skin until they reach Kaveh's chest. What does he want? Something... else.
Alhaitham pulls Kaveh to him and kisses him, one hand splayed flat to his chest while the other digs gently into his hair. The pad of his thumb strokes a slow trail around the shell of his companion's ear.]
I want you close.
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(but he'll do what Alhaitham wants, of course, he'll always do whatever it is Alhaitham wants, no matter how much it hurts him)
but then a hand ghosts over his skin, a grip pulling him close and into a gentle, tender kiss, and all the anxiety unwinds itself as Kaveh all but melts into him, both arms moving to circle around the other's shoulders.
I want you close, Alhaitham says, and Kaveh's heart does something weird in his chest, causing an unbidden sound on his lips, half-sob and half-murmur. A breath to stabilize himself and: ]
Okay. [ A hand winds itself up into the scribe's hair from where it rests at the nape; the other drops from around his shoulder to rest at his waist. ] What if... what if we stay like this, and I use my hand? Does thatβ is that good?
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Not the least of which being that he knows Kaveh so well.
The suggestion is absorbed quietly, Alhaitham's attention sliding offside for a moment, then he takes a quick breath and nods.]
That sounds better.
[He isn't used to these missteps. To not feeling entirely sure of himself even if he is very certain of what he likes and does not like. It's good to have a clear head for once, and yet...]
Mm. That should be good.
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[ And his hand shifts that little lower, taking Alhaitham's flagging arousal into its grip and starting to slowly stroke along it. His forehead remains pressed against the other man's, his eyes shutβ there's a fear deep down in him that he doesn't even fully recognize, a fear that tells him that if he opens his eyes right now, this whole thing will have to end.
He does, however, tilt his head enough that he can kiss the younger again, lips locking into his as his hand continues to move at a slow, steady pace, thumb rubbing over the head in the same way his tongue did just a few moments before.
Whatever disappointment he feels is supplanted by two different things: the need, first, for Alhaitham to enjoy this, to feel good in whatever they're doing,
and something else that hinges on a question he's not ready to ask, let alone answer.
The first is enough for now. ]
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Those faint prickles of arousal start up again and the difference in his body's reactions is immediately evident. Rather than those vaguely uncomfortable twitches and restless shifting he slides his hands lightly over Kaveh's skin, one on his thigh and the other slipping around the shallow dip of his waist, clearly far more at ease.
He tugs the older man closer, almost into his lap, smiling a little against his lips as he snatches a breath between kisses. His cock firms again against the slow slide of Kaveh's palm and the teasing touch of his thumb over the head and his breathing shivers, eyes half-lidded when they part for long enough to look at each other.]
It was not a comment on your prowess. You do understand that, don't you.
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and it doesn't quite stop his expression from faltering at the comment, eyes finally openingβ to show a hint of irritation in red instead of whatever vulnerable softness was there before. ]
If I thought you were commenting on my prowess, you'd no longer be in my bed. [ There's a hint of venom in his voice, perhaps not as strongly as it might have been if they weren't kissing just moments before, but still there.
Then, his strokes pause, and he sighs, eyes flitting away. ]
Sorry. Let's just... not talk about that right now. Not when I'm...
[ A shake of his head, a stronger fire in his gaze as it meets Alhaitham's again. ]
After, okay?
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And they tried it, and he did not like it, and that's fine.
Alhaitham shakes his head slightly.]
Doesn't need to be talked about.
[As far as he is concerned they have already moved past it, are there not better things to be concentrating on at the moment?]
But you should remember that I am not always trying to insult you. [Sometimes he is, even if the intent itself isn't to insult. He knows the things he says are insulting regardless of how he means them. He looks up at Kaveh's face, lightly cupping his cheek with one hand.] Keep going like this. Please.
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I might have some questions, if you don't mind. I just... wanna make sure I know what you do and don't like.
[ After all, it seems that they're determined, both of them, to keep going like this, to keep finding one another in these momentsβ those of desperation and those of genuine want.
(There's a fear, somewhere in the back of his mind, that he doesn't understand.) ]
But... I know you're not.
[ It's an admission hard won, even as Kaveh's hand starts moving over Alhaitham again, picking up a hint of speed; when a hand cups his cheek, he tilts it for a moment before leaning in to kiss him again, something soft and sweet in contrast to the way he thumbs over the head of his arousal, seeking the places he likes the best. ]
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[He is quite happy to tell Kaveh what he does and doesn't like in this scenario. What they're doing right now, he definitely likes, and his body's reactions tell that story for him as much as they displayed his discomfort before.
Alhaitham meets the next kiss with a soft sigh. He slides his free arm around the older man's back and leans into him, parting his lips against the kiss to deepen it. He can feel his arousal growing, a steady lift rather than a sharp, uncontrollable spike of lust, and he likes that too.]
Mm--
[Kaveh sweeps his thumb over the head of his cock and Alhaitham feels the pleasure tingle down the insides of his thighs, He breaks away from the kiss with a quick exhale and then chuckles quietly.]
Mm. Like that.
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[ It's a mumbled promise between their kiss; it seems wrong almost to ask questions like that when he can literally feel Alhaitham's arousal starting to reawaken under his touch, when his focus is attentive to the other's sounds and movements rather than anything else he might want to talk about.
Like that, he says, and Kaveh smiles, repeating the same motion as his hand continues to move along the other's cock. And as he hardens, the blonde picks up speed, little by little until he's reached a smooth, steady rhythm.
He offers Alhaitham a smile, and then presses a kiss to the corner of his lips, watching his face for hints and signs of his pleasure. ]
Remember, [ he murmurs. ] You have to tell me when you're close.
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[That is not to say that he won't forget, with everything going on, but for now he has not forgotten. He shifts against Kaveh's touch, smiles faintly against the next kiss pressed against his lips, and wraps his arms loosely around the other man's shoulders while he works him over.
All the better to be able to slide his fingers into the older man's hair and gently grip it as his hips twitch against that nimble hand.]
Hm--
[Not yet, but his breathing catches and then he sighs, digging the tips of his fingers against the warm skin of Kaveh's back. His pupils are dilated, black pools framed with green, and he nudges his nose against Kaveh's before he kisses him again. His voice is a low murmur - distracted.]
Just-- Just like that...
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Or that's the plan, anyway.
It's too easy for him to get sidetracked, lost to the way Alhaitham's breath hitches before he sighs, to the way he murmurs distractedly into their kiss, urging Kaveh to continue what he's doing. There's something remarkably attractive about the way the scribe gives himself over to the pleasure, hips twitching and fingers gripping; it makes the blonde squirm with his own unanswered need.
He sweeps his thumb over the head of Alhaitham's arousal, smoothing it against the slit before sliding back into that same rhythm, his teeth catching softly against the younger's lower lip. ]
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Stop--
[Gods, he almost forgot entirely. A sharp breath hisses in between his teeth as he grabs hold of Kaveh's wrist and looks at him urgently before pressing their foreheads together.]
Ah-- hah. If you touch me again, I'm--
[It's hard to hold it back even without Kaveh's hand on him. The scribe's expression pinches slightly as he huffs out a strained gasp.]
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(And he's privately amazed, just a little, at the scribe's sheer willpower, the strain in his expression as he struggles to stave off his own orgasm.) ]
Just breathe.
[ It's a whisper, his eyes soft and fond as he watches the other, fingers smoothing over his cheeks, lips stealing a quick, soft kiss. ]
Breathe through it. You're doing so well, Alhaitham.
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Every point of contact burns. The tension of his thighs against Kaveh's, the pressure of his forehead leaning into him, each point where he's gripping against him with a slightly-too-tight hold. Alhaitham exhales slowly, inhales, exhales again, and forces himself to relax. He pushes that rising tide back and feels himself shaking with the effort, something irritated and impatient sparking in the back of his mind that demands more.
It's... intense. His cock throbs, hard and flushed and beading precum in clear warning of how close he is to orgasm. The scribe presses his mouth hard and firm to Kaveh's and kisses him deeply, reproachfully biting at his lower lip when they part.]
Mm... now-- now what?
[Is that Alhaitham requesting direction..? Wonders surely will never cease.]
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But there's nothing anywhere near as wonderful as the sound of the other's voice asking what's next. It sends a delightful shiver down Kaveh's spine, and he allows his hand to trail down over the other's chest and rest at his abdomen, teasing him with proximity. ]
Just a little longer.
[ It's a whisper, breathy and wanton, as Kaveh's eyes trail down, watching the way his cock is flushed and beading. He has no idea how long he's meant to wait, but Alhaitham's shaky breathing seems to have steadied somewhat, soβ
His hand wraps around him again, starting once more with slow, steady strokes. ]
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[Just how he holds on as well as he does is a wonder in itself, and though his breathing does ease before Kaveh takes hold of him it's more deceptive than it may seem. Just a little longer, he said, but his hand might as well have an electric current running through it for how difficult his touch is for Alhaitham to overlook.
While he could not be said to pride himself on being level-headed, on being in control of himself, those two things have always been a fact of Alhaitham's life. Here, both of those things are very swiftly overstepped. His hips twitch into Kaveh's hand as the slow stroking of his cock yanks him back to the brink of orgasm as if he had never taken the time to calm himself down at all.
It happens all at once. His breath catches against the back of his teeth and although he's quiet, barely making a sound save for that soft hiss of air, the way he feels is more than evident in how his entire body stiffens against Kaveh and how his fingertips dig into the older man's shoulders.
He spills over Kaveh's hand with a gasp then lightly presses their foreheads together, panting quietly.]
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...Fuck.
He smiles as the other's forehead presses into his own, stroking over him a few more times as he finishes before coming to a rest. His free hand lifts to gently stroke across his cheek, as if to soothe and relax him. Kaveh aches with the embarrassment of having screwed it up for him, having obviously started over again too soon without enough time to rest, and there's an apology on the tip of his tongue but he doesn't want to take the moment away from the other just yet.
And so he uses his hand to tilt Alhaitham's face into his, a soft meeting of their lips. ]
How are you feeling? [ he whispers, following the words with another kiss. Maybe, if the younger man enjoyed himself, it doesn't matter too much that he fucked up. All Kaveh wanted was him to feel good anyway... ]
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[He doesn't think that this is how Kaveh wanted it to go but he really doesn't care, either.
And for once, when Kaveh guides his face like that, he doesn't try to move himself out of the older man's grip. He allows it, meeting his lips in a soft kiss, and at the question he lets out a low, warm chuckle.]
I feel fine.
[Alhaitham feels good, not concerned at all with whether or not the experience was 'screwed up'. He nudges their noses together when they part from the kiss and lets out a quiet breath.]
That was good.
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Good. Good, I'm glad. I was worried.. it didn't go quite how I meant it to, so I'm glad it wasn't ruined for you.
[ He's not sure why, but the idea of ruining even something small like this when Alhaitham came to him explicitly for sex feels devastating. So he's glad. ]
You did really well, too. I... I don't know how you had the strength to stop me the first time. I wouldn't have been able to do that.
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[He's not writing off the experience even if it didn't go entirely to plan. Coming to Kaveh explicitly for sex was one thing, but he didn't exactly have any intentions beyond that...
Alhaitham exhales softly through his nose, almost another little chuckle, and lets himself relax against Kaveh for a moment.]
I think I can control myself next time.
text; un: scribe
text | un: alcazarzaray 1/2
alhaitha?m?????? oh ym god hass omeone somehow gottenyor watch
your watch
Alhaitam
sdklngd
2/2
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I just
[ Fuck, is he terrible at this. ]
I love you too.
I just wasn't expecting that
If you're gonna do that, I'm gonna need a warning so my heart doesn't explode out of my chest or something.
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1/2
Because if it was to make my cheeks red and to spill my tea, you succeeded
2/2
Were you feeling affectionate? heh.
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I am aware of how easily you lapse into self-doubt and that you will do it regardless of how many times you hear me say the words.
Now you have them in writing.
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[ Archons. This man knows him far too well for his own good. ]
If I ever accuse you of being unromantic, show me this text message as proof that I think you're the furthest thing from it.
I love you.
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I have no objections to you perceiving it that way.
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You know that even if you did object, you can't change the way I see it, right?Mm.
Thank you. β₯
action | card exchange
[ Carefully crossing the floor of her bedroom, Mona soon pauses beside her mattress with an intricately-designed silver tray in her hands. On its surface there are two glasses of wine, each a vivid, luscious raspberry-hue and filled to the brim. The bottle situated beside them appears a little more than half full, giving both Kaveh and Mona the opportunity to indulge in more if they so desired. She privately finds the scent to be pleasant, too.
Mona delicately places the tray onto her bed and straightens up. ]
I've just been a bit wary, is all. It wouldn't be the first time I've dined on something and had a strange result.
[ A fellow guest had treated Mona to some savory meat a few weeks prior, and shortly after, she had sprouted rabbit's ears and a tail. They were very sensitive, as well. And beyond that... yes, she had also downed tea laced with aphrodisia. The resort can be unforgiving with its mealtime trickery. ]
This one appeared safe to me, [ Mona says, plucking the bottle off the tray to give it another look. ] But it does appear that it will, ah... improve the mood.
[ There's a faint flush in her cheeks. ]
sorry for the delay β₯
Well. There's a first time for everything, isn't there?
He's seated on the edge of Mona's bed, fingers curled loosely into the plush covers in an effort to hide his anxiety, a slight smile on his lips as she approaches from the other side of the room, wine-carrying tray in her hands. And Kaveh, who knows that he should be more careful of the food and drink here, after everything he's already been through, takes up one of the glasses and brings it to his lips so he can inhale its aroma. ]
It smells lovely. Besides... even if the effects aren't exactly as desired, we both know what we're here for, anyway.
[ He tries to ignore the tell-tale warmth in his own cheeks; as if to distract himself, he lifts the glass that he's holding, squaring his shoulders in an effort to seem less awkward about things, somehow. ]
Then... a toast, perhaps? To the mood?
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She sets aside the bottle to pick up her own glass of wine, lifting it to her lips but not sipping from it just yet. Like Kaveh, Mona breathes in its scent. It's fruity, aromatic; she thinks she'll definitely be inebriated by the end. ]
A toast is just fine. I think it's rather fitting.
[ Mona smiles as she raises her glass out towards him. The edge glints under the lowlight and reflects a prismatic shard onto the wall beside them. ]
Then, let us enjoy this evening together. I will do my best as your partner, Kaveh.
[ Despite the confidence in her body language and voice, she can feel herself blushing again. Then, as if to obscure her own embarrassment, Mona makes a soft 'ahem' and takes a drink. ]
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There's no need to feel you have to be formal, Mona. I think it's fair to say we're both in a new kind of situationβ I won't judge you, if you don't judge me.
[ He chuckles, and sips again. There's still warmth in his cheeks, still shyness, but the drink gives him just enough of an edge to push through it. ]
Will you tell me about what you like?
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[ Mona is not exactly the most flirtatious person. She really does present in a formal manner, purposefully putting on airs to mask her own vulnerabilities. In contrast, Kaveh is a bit more forward with his insecurities, though maybe not purposefully. He's outwardly softer than her, which... she appreciates, admittedly. It's easier to lower her defenses when the person she is speaking to is kind.
With the sensation of warmth spreading inside her, Mona expels a breath and nods once. Liquid courage, as they say. She can speak her mind; she's done it plenty of times before. ]
I had a thought, [ she begins, peering at him from over her glass. ] You are a very beautiful man, Kaveh, and I... believe you would look quite lovely in a particular fashion.
[ Oh, she can't keep the demure lilt out of her voice. ]
Have youβah, considered wearing women's clothes before?
[ It wasn't until very, very recently that Mona realized she enjoyed such a thing. ]
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and yet he realizes very quickly that he holds no real objections toward the idea.
Besides, heβ
Kaveh clears his throat. ]
I've worn lingerie before, [ he admits, the words coming with surprising ease. (Thank you, alcohol.) ] But I've never really given thought to an entire outfit. That said, I..
[ There's color high in his cheeks, but his smile is surprisingly even. Archons above, he's really considering it.
More than that, accepting itβ looking forward to it. ]
I'd be willing to try it, if that's what interests you.
un: sanlang / text
I am sorry to bear bad news: Xie Lian has gone from this place. He is fine. I can feel his presence at the other end of our red thread, but his room is empty and I can no longer find him within the resort.
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His heart breaks. His heart is broken, but at the same time...
Surely, his first responsibility is to Hua Cheng, his friend's literal husband. It's what he knows Xie Lian would want. ]
Thank you for telling me, Hua Cheng.
I..
Are you alright? I know you said you can feel him, but...
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[ so, no. no, he is not alright, he will not be alright until he has xie lian once again in his arms, safe within the walls of paradise manor where no one else could ever touch him.
but there's nothing he can do about it now, is there? ]
I know you two loved each other. I thought it right that you be the first to know.
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[ Ugh. It only makes him hate everything all the more. Hua Cheng and Xie Lian will be alright, in the end. Hua Cheng will return home to his love, and they will continue on. He can only hope the same is true for him and Alhaitham, that their memories of what happened here hold.
But...
Unless they find some way to traverse the worlds...
Ugh, no. This isn't about him right now. ]
Thank you for telling me. I...
My heart hurts, a lot. But I'm glad I heard it from you.
Is there anything I can do? To help you?
When Alhaitham disappeared, Xie Lian helped me go to his old room and find some of his things...
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[ if they'd turned xie lian into a statue hua cheng would probably have just gone ham on this whole place. ]
I have his belongings, I brought them with me when the staff made me leave our room. Would you come to my room at your convenience? There are things among them that I think he would want you to have.
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He supposes that makes sense. He can only imagine how crazy the knowledge might drive Hua Cheng otherwise... ]
I... of course. I would be...
Thank you.
If you're not doing anything, I'm free now.
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[ he drops a pin for kaveh to find his room and then waits. ]
a delivery, backdated to sometime in late december
inside, he'll find a necklace and a letter, written in that same steady hand.]
Kaveh,
I hope this finds you well, and that you're taking the time to be with the people you care for. I'm not sure if you have a holiday similar to Kleinmas where you're from, but for me, this is a time to share my happiness and affection for those I care for.
Admittedly, I'm not entirely sure if this will be to your tastes, but I wanted to make something that invokes the warmth and brightness I feel in your presence. Thank you for spending some of your valuable time with me, and for trusting me with your feelings and friendship.
Olivine
[text] un: alcazarzaray
I don't know what to say, Olivine. Thank you. I love it, I really, really do.
[ His text can't show the fact that he's crying, but he's kind of glad for that. ]
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And you don't need to say anything, Kaveh. I'm glad you like it. Ahβand if it's too long or short, I can adjust the links for you.
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And... no, I think it's perfect. You can tell me when we meet up.
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If it feels comfortable to you, then the length is perfect enough. But I'm looking forward to seeing it on you, too.
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But I'm always down to try something new, too. Try me. β₯
It feels comfortable, though. It's perfect.
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Good, I'm glad. I'm that case, I'm just excited to see it on you.
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But maybe what would be right is that I make that for you, in the future, if you're making something for me this time. β₯
When are you free? We can eat, and I can model the necklace for you.
a wintertime gift.
wrapped in a deep red package with soft teal and gold ribbons: laying in the tissue paper is a simple travel painting case made of beautiful, lacquered wood. upon unfolding it, on the right side is a pan of richly pigmented paints in jewel tones as well as a few empty wells for any other paints Kaveh might like to add to the palette. the palette itself is reuseable and can be refilled as desired. there is a bigger well for water next to the paint wells. on the left side there is a place for brushes and pencils and pens to be secured together with a soft leather tie. accompanying it, is a rectangular book of paper that can handle being saturated with water without bleeding into the next pages. when it opens, it folds totally flat for easy use. ]
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Eiden, this... is it because of that Kleinmas thing Olivine told me about?
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Yeahβthere are holidays like this where I'm originally from, too... all this snow reminded me that maybe I was due to send you a little something. I hope you liked it!
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I really love it, thank you.
I just wish I'd known about this holiday. You have me at a disadvantage..
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Selfishly I wanted to make something for you that might remind you of our good times. I didn't make the container itself, but I did mix the paints especially for you. Those are one of a kind.
[ maybe a little gayly there is a color in there suspiciously close to the color of kaveh's eyes, and perhaps a familiar soft milk tea-brown. ]
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They're beautiful colors, Eiden, thank you.
[ And then, because Kaveh's maybe a little gay himself: ]
The brown in particular is really pretty.
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Hehe, do you? I'm curious to see what you'll use it for.
I mean that, I wanna be the first person to see what you make with it.
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Well, you'll have to wait and see, but
it's a promiseβyou'll be the first person.
dated before the vday event for less chaos / @aventurine
I hope I'm not interrupting anything?
slides back in here SORRY β₯ life has been too much
You're not interrupting anything, no.
Was there something you needed?
don't ever worry about being late!! π
I would like to hire you for something, if your schedule is free.
β₯β₯β₯
As to your question, of course. I find it's almost hard not to be free in this place, sometimes.
So I'd be more than happy to help. What are you looking to have done?
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( now give him a moment to like, actually have the courage to say the words he wants to say. being honest, showing genuine feelings, etc etc. truly the hardest part of being a blonde mhy man. )
Truth is, I'm not really so used to decorating much of anything. Even my apartment back home had mostly the furnishings it came with, and I didn't bother to add much.
So I was thinking of making it more... personal, if that makes sense? Though it might be counter-productive to ask someone to do it, but I'm just not good at it.
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especially for blonde mhy menEven weaknesses as small as "I didn't decorate my last home". So when he answers, he tries to be kind. ]I don't think it's counter-productive at all. To the contrary, I think the best person to help you make something personal is an expert in the field. Someone with experience is going to be most able to take your ideas and concepts and translate them into a space that is effectively you.
...I'm rambling a little, but I think you understand my point.
What kind of suite are you in now? We can start by meeting and discussing your ideas.
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Ahah, I do. It's why I reached out to you in particular.
Ramble away. You're really passionate about this kind of stuff, right? I don't mind.
I'm in the J-A floor, an A suite, so plenty of space for you ( us??!?? ) to decorate.
I'll wait for you outside my door so you know which room it is, if that works for you.
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That sounds perfect. I'm the same floor, so it won't take me long at all. Let me just gather up a few things that will help us, and I'll be right there.
[ Indeed it's not long at all before Kaveh emerges from his own suite, eyes casting around the floor in search of Aventurine. He has a satchel slung over his shoulder with a few necessities, but most of what he needs is tucked inside the floating toolbox at his side, its own green eyes bright with the same faux-curiosity they wear whenever he takes it out of his room.
Once he sees the other, he'll head over with a smile and a wave of greeting. ]
@benediction
I'm mainly apologetic for how I was a bit lost on where to go.
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Then, he smiles. ]
If you liked that, you should stop by my suite sometime. I've been stockpiling some of the better labels and vintages, lately.
Anyway, you don't have to apologize. You were new back then, right? Everyone gets lost at first.
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But don't worry, I'm not against coming by to visit whenever you want the company yourself.
Do you usually collect wine, Kaveh?
(but, karna does smile himself, he's pleased. they've been speaking plenty on and off, plus kaveh seems....patient, for many of karna's unusual quirks.)
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I do, though. I did a little at home too, but it's easier here. Being a Jack, the staff are quick to get pretty much anything I ask for. And we get paid a lot just for playing the game...
Ugh. I still don't like the way that sounds.
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I did notice that whenever our ranks were exchanged, the staff were quick to follow me and address my every need. The problem was more that they were aggressive about the approach, I was queen rank at the time.
....and I don't blame you, I wouldn't feel comfortable myself at feeling like I was being in a sense used from the way it can sound.
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Mm, it does sound like that, right? Sometimes I remember all over again the situation we're in. Even after a year.
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A year for you? I know that I'll be at that point soon. That madness during October showed me that anything could happen, I suppose, perhaps even the statues coming to life in February did as well.
Somehow, I came out mostly unscathed from that.