Thread by @kahlidump_

#haikaveh regency-ish, a/b/o
—

Kaveh’s been living under his widowed aunt’s roof since he lost his parents at age 12, and whatever happy memories he’s had in those meager years are trampled upon by the unjust treatment he’s received from his new home—

house. Not a home, never a home. Just a house with no love nor an inch of care thrown his way unless you count the stale bread and soup he’s given just so he’s d survive enough to live the next day.

He’d endured the starvation and the beatings, accepted his fate as his aunt and

her family’s maid. He has two cousins of the same age who treated him like they wanted to split his body into two with how they gave orders around the clock.

Kaveh presented as an omega late, already 16 years of age. He’d say that next to losing his parents, his first heat was

the worst moment of his life.

He’d never nested because he never felt safe, and he was thrown down the cold dark basement because he was polluting the mansion with his scent. It was a miserable week. It was hell.

Now, the bright side of being starved by nutrition and affection

is that his heat never happened again. He would think that his omega biology’s been traumatized the first time it didn’t want another round of suffering. Good. At least being an omega’s one less thing to worry about. He’d often
forget he was even one at all!

Although he has to admit that somehow, he’d envy his cousins, who also both presented as omegas, whenever they’d go out and attend balls and dances. He’d stare at invitations and trace the beautiful gold ink with his finger before bringing them to his masters, envelope served

in a silver plate like an expensive dish.

But that’s all there is to it. The calls the following morning are certainly not something he’s interested in, however it sure is entertaining to see his cousins make a fool of themselves in front of suitors. What’s confused

Kaveh, though, is how come it’s taking too long for them to find mates and get married. He’s secretly rooting for them, because their marriage would mean moving houses with their spouse. And then that would be two less demons to worry about, two less brats to serve, and two less

hindrances to his freedom.

He’d been saving a little, secretly selling his paintings to a small gallery owner he’s befriended during his weekly market trips. Just a little bit more mora and he’ll be able to afford a couple months of rent in the cheapest inn in town.

Unfortunately, Kaveh shouldn’t have underestimated his ill luck. The lingering question about his cousins’ yet-to-happen betrothals is answered in the form of a dull envelope thrown to his foot.

To his horror, it’s a marriage agreement with his name on it.

“I don’t understand.”

He says, feeling his throat run dry. His aunt scoffs and has the audacity to ask him to pour her tea as she explains.

“Your whore scent’s been driving away my daughters’ suitors!” She exclaims.

“T-then I’ll keep to myself down the basement or the attic during those visits.”

He tries to reason but that only earns him a slap on the face. The tea spills and his aunt’s ire grows.

“They keep asking for you!” She’s yelling now. “You filthy seductress! You’ve been doing this on purpose, haven’t you? Cleaning windows and dusting furniture nearby

to flaunt your scent and steal those alphas away. You must think that doing so would eventually result in your own marriage, and you’d become rich as easy as that!”

She heaves and when Kaveh, mortified at the accusations, shakes his head, she slaps his hand holding the pot

of tea this time and the liquid spills, stains the carpet. Kaveh would have a hard time removing the stains later, but who knows? The salt in his tears might do the trick.

“Like I said, I’ll just stay in the attic. You don’t have to—“

“That’s not enough. I want you gone.”

“Then just send me away!”

“Without having you pay for all the troubles you’ve caused us?” She sits down and gestures at the letter. “Besides, it’s not like you’re not going to gain anything from this. In fact, you should be thanking me for finding you a rich alpha who’s still

willing to take a whore with not a mora to his name, to be his wife.”

And of course, half of those riches will be given to his aunt. Kaveh’s basically sold like livestock.

Just like that, his faith’s been sealed. The mora he’d been saving are now all for naught so he instead

he donates them to the orphanage he’s been visiting anytime he could.

He meets his future spouse as soon as the following morning, a man with greying hairs and dry, wrinkling face. The old alpha’s divorced with grown up kids living their lives somewhere, and now he has all

the time in the world to enjoy the rest of his days in luxury, drinks, gambling, and ‘in’ a young and beautiful omega he can bring to parties like a trophy.

Kaveh feels bile rising to his mouth but manages to force a smile nonetheless. Since that day, even with their marriage

preparations still ongoing, he’s already had a taste of being nothing but a decoration in the alpha’s arms. He’s brought to every party and now regrets ever longing for them whenever his cousins would attend one. Kaveh’s only luck that propriety’s keeping him safe from being

properly and thoroughly scented, but given that he’s a magnet for misfortune, he prepares himself for the day that the old man decides he doesn’t care anymore. So at the very least, Kaveh’s learned to seek out freedom as best he could. He’d take note of when his fiance’s drunk

out of his mind and busy throwing away his mora on card games and drunken chess matches with other alphas who are equally intoxicated. He’d take this chance to slip away to some fresh air at the balcony, the quiet of the garden, or the stillness of a hallway with high windows.

Another party and this time, after bringing the old alpha a couple glasses of wine partly to ensure he’d be too drunk to come looking for Kaveh too soon, the omega finds himself in the calmness of a dim-lit library. He’s been to many libraries before to know what books he’d want

to read, and quickly makes haste to find them. Anything about art and architecture, the fascinating buildings he longs to see in other parts of the world and how they’re built. The techniques of great painters before their time.

He’d been too focused and tensed

and too much in a hurry that he fails to stop the shriek that escapes him when he collides with another presence in the room.

Immediately, dread fills Kaveh as he takes a step back and registers what, or rather who, he’s had the misfortune of being discovered by. The lone lit

lamp barely gives away the other man’s features, just enough for Kaveh to know that he’s taller, well-built and well-off as proven by his expensive clothes, that he looks quite irritated at Kaveh for shattering the library’s peace.

That he’s an alpha, and Kaveh needs to run.

(Interlude// Kaveh):

Yet, frightened as he is, he stays rooted at the stop, even when the other man rudely brings the lamp he's holding closer to Kaveh's face. The brightness makes the omega recoil and squint his eyes.

"You're not a thief." Comments the alpha, and a part of Kaveh bristles at being

considered as one. For years, he's been called as such by the very people who stole his life and the future he'd been hopeful of. As if he would ever be interested in his cousins' too ornate, too tight gowns. As if there's anywhere he could wear them.

He snaps himself out of

his trance and takes a step back to rid his face of the too bright lamp light.

"No, sir." Kaveh answers and tries to compose himself. "I was simply--"

"Trespassing?"

"Bored." It's almost snappish, the way he answers. The years of him holding his tongue threatens to fly out

the window. So he quickly attempts to make an exit. "Forgive the intrusion. I'll see myself out."

Besides not wanting to get into an unnecessary argument with a noble man who could very well throw him in jail just because, being around an unknown alpha is dangerous for an omega

such as himself. He's about to bow and make a run for it when the man speaks again.

"So, the first thing you do when you're bored is to find a library and read... boring books?"

Kaveh feels the need to defend himself and thirst for reading, his only escape from his reality.

"You may find them boring, sir, but I do find them entertaining."

"Entertaining? Not educating?"

"Can't it be both?"

His patience is running thin, oddly quick for such a seemingly harmless conversation. He bawls his fists, carefully hidden in the ruffles of his sleeves,

and really, he should be making his escape now. But the man hums and Kaveh anticipates, unreasonably, what else he has on mind.

"If you're here to read, then read." To his surprise, the man finally withdraws and turns his back, already becoming but a shadow as he walks away.

Kaveh doesn't know what to make of it. He's hardly even gotten a glimpse past the man's chiseled jaw. Could this be a trap? Could it be that the alpha's actually on his way to report him to the guards whilst Kaveh's on the floor reading?

"Won't you tell on me?" He couldn't help

but ask. Before he regrets voicing out his fears, his company pauses.

"As long as you do not damage or steal anything, you are none of my concern. I do not care for you." The man says before disappearing entirely from Kaveh's sight as he turns to the next aisle.

Such a rude way to say it, but it is that very off--ish tone that convinces Kaveh to stay and continue his search. It takes a while to find what he's looking for, and after getting to used to seeing a flash of a lamp occasionally at the corner of his eyes as the stranger also

navigates the library, he's found himself no longer concerned about the alpha. One or two times Kaveh's spotted him with a book of his own, lamp by his feet. And the sight placates Kaveh because the man also seems to be only interested in his own literature.

Kaveh settles at a corner near the doorway, on the floor, so that it would be easy to rush should his trash of a fiance come looking for him. It is also the spot that offers the best view of the huge clock so he could track the time. At most, he'll spend half an hour before

checking in on the old man to see if he could still squeeze in a little bit of free time or if it's dreadfully time to go back. Just like any other stolen periods of his time, he spends the passing minutes like this, gratefully uninterrupted.

And when he's done, he dutifully returns the book from where he's taken it. Spotting another bright corner of the room where the alpha's positioned himself, Kaveh takes a few steps near, just enough for his voice to be heard.

"Thank you." He means to say more, but couldn't

find the necessary words. In the end, he simply turns and lets the clacking of his heels announce his leave.

It takes another week before he's forcedly brought again to another gathering. This time, it's rather small but no less elaborate. The wine is flowing and the music

eternally plays in the background. With an arm around his waist, he's led around by the old man but never introduced. Not that there's any need for that, when the alpha's peers care not for his name. They would greet his fiance, a baron, and then look at Kaveh with leering eyes

before nodding in approval. It disgusts him to no end, but he endures because there's really nothing he can do.

"And your name?" Kaveh's been so used to being ignored that it doesn't dawn on him immediately that he's being addressed. The baron nudges him, the hand on his waist

squeezing a little too hard that it takes all of him to suppress any reaction. Still, the surprise makes him snap his eyes up to whoever's just asked for his name, and he's met with an intense stare that almost had him turning away. Except, the other alpha's eyes were too

piercing that he cannot escape it. So Kaveh stares back, an act that's considered improper and that's sure to put him in trouble later, but without breaking eye contact he answers.

"Kaveh." As simple as that. The man nods, satisfied, and introduces himself again.

"Alhaitham."

It's only at the sight of the alpha's retreating back that makes Kaveh think he's oddly familiar. However, the painful grip on his hip prevents further thoughts from taking root in his mind, and he's reminded again of his role as a doll on display for the night.

The hour Kaveh’s been looking forward to during the gathering finally comes, when the alcohol’s taken over most of the guests and the baron in too deep in his philosophical conversations with other alphas who are trying to sound smart. Kaveh could easily shut their opinions

if he were allowed to, but maybe even so he wouldn’t bother wasting time debating with people who don’t really know what they’re talking about. Following his routine, he slips away smoothly to go find something to do. The sliced fruits on the table catches his eye.

He quickly fetches a bowl and fill them, getting at least two a piece for each kind. Then he hurries outside, thinking that the back garden he’s seen earlier would be a nice place to wait the rest of the night away and finish his snacks. He samples a bite of an apple and hums at

how crisp it still is. However, the elation he’s feeling with his borrowed time comes to a pause when he reaches the gazebo in the middle of the garden and finds it already occupied by a man whose nose is buried in book.

He believes he’s yet to be noticed, so Kaveh moves to

turn and find another unoccupied spot. At this point, anywhere with a clear view of the stars would do.

“Unless you’re expecting a tryst in the garden, you may stay here.”

The man keeps his eyes on the book but he does lower it down enough for Kaveh to see his face. He quickly

finishes the fruit in his mouth and wipes his lips free of juice. The gazebo is indeed spacious, and the seats far apart enough for them
to disturb each other. So Kaveh slowly makes his way and it’s only when he’s laid a foot up the elevated floor does he realize who his company

is. It’s the alpha from earlier, the one who asked for his name. Alhaitham.

Kaveh naively thought that all the alphas had stayed at the dining hall. Now, as he freezes on his spot and quickly debates over staying (because he didn’t want to offend the man) or leaving (because

being alone with an alpha can result in the worst situations possible), he laments over his choices. He just wanted to eat his fruits in peace.

“If you’re about being taken advantage of, rest assured you’re not interesting enough to warrant anything from me.” The man speaks again and when Kaveh snaps his eyes at him, he almost catches the alpha scanning him from head to toe, looking unimpressed true to his words. “And if

you’re worried about being caught alone with an alpha in a secluded garden, perhaps you should’ve thought about your decisions more before making any of them. If this is how you always think, that you’ve survived this long is a mystery that I unfortunately won’t bother to solve.”

“Then you ought to know that I’m also mystified at how you’re still breathing today, seeing that that attitude of yours makes your head a tempting target.” Kaveh snaps before he could think twice. Now this finally graces him the alpha’s full attention, a fleeting moment

but it’s something.

His heart hammers loudly in his chest but Kaveh holds Alhaitham’s gaze, defiantly and ready to fire back. But the man soon turns back to his book like he’s suddenly lost all interest, and that Kaveh’s not even worth another word from him. Fine then! Kaveh’s

here to eat his fruits, after all, and not to chat.

He welcomes himself in the gazebo and takes the empty chair at the other side of the round table. The bowls makes a clang that’s just loud enough to express his disdain, but also quiet enough that Alhaitham can’t complain about

being bothered by the noise. But in response, there’s a rather loud sound of a page being turned that another ounce of force might’ve torn the paper from the book.

Kaveh rolls his eyes and thinks to himself, how immature this man is.

With one last glare, not that the alpha could see, Kaveh makes himself comfortable in his seat, stares out the flowers in the distance, and starts to eat his fruit.

The passive aggressive sounds of page-turning and a ceramic bowl moving continues for a while. And in between are

secret glances that aim to check if the other’s close to snapping.

It’s a silent war, and Kaveh’s had a lifetime of practice so he’s quite confident he’d win this pettiness game. When he hears the book being shut with enough force the sound almost echoes

in the silence of the space, he knows he’s won but is still careful
not to show any signs that he’d been riling up the other on purpose (to be fair, it was the alpha who started it!)

He tries to hide his grin by munching on another apple slice.

“If this is your way of making me leave, then know that it is not going to work.” Alhaitham puts his book on the table and crosses his arms. “Besides, I was here first.”

Meanwhile, Kaveh takes his time to answer, deliberately slowly chewing and wiping his lips.

And all he says is “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Then nudges his bowl towards the man, a joke of a peace offering. “Fruit?”

Alhaitham answers with a glare but Kaveh, unfazed, merely shrugs.

“No? More for me then.” He proceeds to pop the remaining grapes in his

mouth until there is none left. He frowns, truly disappointed that he’s ran out and because the empty bowl is his sign to go back and see what the old, good-for-nothing baron’s up to. Sadness wells in his heart, but no matter his feelings, he is still quick to recover and

continue putting up this show in front of Alhaitham who seems to be already burning his soul to hell and back with how intensely he’s staring at him.

“Ah, I’ve run out. Perhaps I should get more.” He muses out loud and stands up. “I shall fetch myself some more. But don’t worry,

I won’t be coming back.” He smiles and steps down the gazebo, turns to Alhaitham and bows. “Thank you for enduring the presence of such a lowly one like me. Enjoy the rest of your evening, my lord.”

The smile on his face vanishes in an instant as soon as his back is turned

against the man. If he’s taking slow steps to delay his venture back to the dreaded place, that’s no one’s business but his own. He’s made it a couple of steps, just a few from where the trail of rose bushes start to lead his path back, when the silence is broken by an unexpected

call.

“Kaveh.”

His body’s frozen in an instant, and his mind tries to quickly catch up to hearing the sound of his name . He doesn’t fully turn, just enough to look back at the alpha who’s beckoned him in a manner that feels so…

He doesn’t get to finish his thoughts.

Alhaitham’s eyes affix into him in a gripping stare. Floods could have swept the city away and fires could have rained upon them, and Kaveh would’ve noticed it too late.

He fails to get a word out of his mouth, so with the best of his abilities, he communicates his confusion

with a raise of an eyebrow after he’s recovered enough of his sense. And Alhaitham, that impossible jerk, only smirks and returns to his book.

Kaveh’s ought to punch that smirk off his face. But there’s no time and this little game of theirs, of who gets to annoy the other

first, is just another passing moment that he’s going to sweep under the rug and forget in the coming days. So Kaveh huffs and leaves for real this time, uninterrupted by stupid calls and stupid alphas who’d say his name just to have the last word.

(interlude// Alhaitham and Kaveh):

Since that encounter, Alhaitham, for some unfathomable reason, is all over the place.

Kaveh's not sure if the alpha had always been around to these parties and he'd only come to notice him now that he's aware of it. Or if Alhaitham's made it his new life mission to bother Kaveh

by merely existing in the same room. However, what occurred at the gazebo is yet to happen again. Kaveh still escapes whenever he could but he's never come across the alpha again. It should be a good thing, really, but there's a nagging feeling of disappointment at the back of

his mind that he defiantly refuses to acknowledge. He doesn't even try to rationalize such feelings, really convincing himself that they're non-existent.

But while there never was a second or third unexpected meeting, there were still those weighty stares that Kaveh could

feel in his very bones. Did he really provoke the alpha that much? Is he truly vexed just because Kaveh's called him out on his abysmal attitude? Then, if he's got a problem with him he might as well just confront him for it instead of glaring daggers at the back of his head!

There's only so much staring the omega could take and it doesn't take long before he's dared to fight back with his own, hopefully menacing, glare even when they're out in public. The first time he's returned the nasty look Alhaitham's throwing at him from across the room, the

alpha had the gall to grin as if he's won by finally eliciting a reaction from Kaveh, forcing him to break his carefully crafted smiles and polite gestures around people he'd be happy to strangle given the opportunity.

It takes a fortnight before fate's pushed them together again, and to Kaveh's horror it happens in the most unexpected places: the marketplace, where he's apparently being scammed.

He's already opened up his tiny purse, ready to give up the little bit of mora's left in them

in exchange for the little trinkets an old lady's selling, saying they're made by little children in a small school by Ghanda Hill and that this would help them with their daily rations of bread, seeing that it's simply a small establishment made by the local folks to at least

help their children learn to read and write. Except,

"No such school exists." The end of a cane maneuvers Kaveh's hand up and away from the lady's waiting palm. Kaveh whips his head, feeling surprised for a moment at the unexpected sight of the alpha that's been a menace in his

head the past weeks. Overcoming the initial shock, because this is hardly an environment that someone like Alhaitham would be, a frown immediately forms on his lips.

"And you'd know this because?" He crosses his arms and Alhaitham stands closer, towers over the old woman

which Kaveh believes is wholly unnecessary. The poor lady already looks spooked at his arrival.

"Because I own the land there." Kaveh blinks back at him, disbelieving for a second. Upon hearing this, the seller-slash-scammer panics and dashes away without another word, which

is a shame, really, because Kaveh rather liked on the designs and he would still have been willing to buy at least one, scammer or not.

They watch until she disappears from the crowd, and then Alhaitham turns to him, looking expectantly. If it were another person, maybe Kaveh's

quick to give his thanks. But because it is Alhaitham, the expression of gratitude is unspoken, only comes in the form of a quick bow before Kaveh's marching past him much to the alpha's surprise.

He's not even a few feet away when he finds the alpha already matching his stride

"I didn't peg you to be the ungrateful kind." Alhaitham says. Kaveh can't properly gauge how he sounds, but he decides that the alpha doesn't seem to entirely offended. He casts him a glance from the corner of his eyes but doesn't stop walking.

"I didn't think you'd be someone

who'd visit the market." Once he's said that out loud, it's when Kaveh realizes how starkly different they looked. Alhaitham, despite donning on a set of dull-colored clothes, still looks unmistakably rich, a noble. On the other hand, Kaveh looks every bit like a servant,

from his mudded boots to his messy hair, golden strands escaping his ponytail after spending half the day roaming the stalls for supplies. It doesn't help that the weather's turned a bit warmer, so he's all sweaty and red-faced. Unfortunately, he can't go back to the house yet.

In fact, there's really no need for Kaveh to be out getting supplies, but his cousins are apparently expecting some visits and in the end, his aunt had taken in his suggestion to be sent away. Now, if she could also just see this as a permanent solution, just until Kaveh could

afford to move out but lady luck's never really smiled down on him.

And so Kaveh roams the market and the streets because he cannot come back until the sun's halfway down the horizon.

He momentarily loses himself in those thoughts that he almost forgets

the alpha that's been oddly quiet by his side, observing him, probably judging him and how dirty he looks. It's so vastly different from how he'd fix himself up whenever he's to attend those cursed gatherings with the baron.

"If you're allowed to walk around in this place, I don't see why I can't visit." Alhaitham says confidently, hands on his back.

Kaveh's first thought is of course, you alphas always like to think you're allowed anywhere. He swallows that answer away and instead gives the most

obvious reason.

"My lord, the difference between you and me is that I am a servant and so I belong here, while you are a lord, as proven by your bragging moments ago, and a lord has no business here."

This makes Alhaitham stop, and if Kaveh's not that curious about his

reaction, he would've left him there without a second thought. When he checks to see how the alpha's taking his little jab at bragging, he's confused as to why Alhaitham's looking at him like he has grown ten heads. He's frowning, not bother to hide how his eyes sweep

at Kaveh from head to toe. The omega suddenly feels very exposed and very conscious about how he looks at the moment. Surely, he doesn't look like complete waste for him to warrant such... disgust?

"A servant." The alpha repeats and Kaveh nods his head. "What do you mean?"

Kaveh furrows his brows. Realizing that the alpha looks genuinely confused, he couldn't help but mirror the sentiment. Not knowing what else to do, he simply repeats himself.

"A servant, I'm one, yes."

"But that doesn't make sense." The frown on Alhaitham's face deepens.

So Kaveh quickly recalls all their interactions in his head, trying to find out what could have given the alpha a wrong impression. Then, he remembers that Alhaitham's only ever seen him in the arm of the greying baron, reluctantly wearing clothes that the man gave him so he'd

look presentable in front of his peers at the very least.

Finally putting two and two together, Kaveh snaps his fingers. "Ah! I see, now. You've only me during those exclusive gatherings so that must have given you the wrong idea." He begins to explain.

"But forgive me, my lord, but I'm no rich omega. Just a servant dressed to look like one for the baron to flaunt around without feeling shamed."

"And are you not to be wed?"

"Oh we are! Unfortunately so. But now that you've pointed that out, it may now make more sense to you

how I find myself trapped and forced to attend those parties. A servant like me has no choice, after all." Kaveh concludes, faking a smile like he's merely talking about the weather. The look on Alhaitham's face, on the other hand, is quite comical and he would've busted out in

laughter if only he were not reminded of the things he has just confessed to the other.

Alhaitham still looks confused, shaking his head and still examining Kaveh from head to toe as if trying to find proof that he's lying.

"So, these clothes, they're not a disguise?"

"No."

Kaveh gives him a moment but Alhaitham looks like he needs more time to process things. Is the idea of interacting with a servant so appalling that he's somehow broken his mind?

Swallowing his disappointment at how things turned out in the end, Kaveh decides it's time to go.

He's got better places to be, in Nilou's waiting for him at her small gallery.

Alhaitham momentarily breaks away from his thoughts when Kaveh steps back, putting more distance between them.

"Looks like this is where we part ways, my lord. Unfortunately, you may still have to see my at one those parties but don't worry, I won't dare look in your way again. " Before Alhaitham can get a word out, the omega bows again, a sad smile on his face. And then he's leaving,

letting the crowd swallow him up. He may have heard him call his name, or it could also just be his imagination.

Nevertheless, there's no use dwelling in those thoughts now. The pseudo companionship and reprieve he's found that helped him survive those parties is now gone.

His mood doesn’t improve much, but Nilou’s smile is always a welcome balm to his soul. A cheerful greeting echoes from behind the shelves as soon as the chimes signal Kaveh’s arrival. There’s the sound of boxes being moved and a soft clatter following it before Nilou emerges

from where she’s been sorting her wares.

“Kaveh! I’ve missed you!” She quickly comes up to him, her sweet scent further relaxing Kaveh, making him realize how wound up he’s been. This doesn’t escape Nilou’s observant eyes, but she thankfully doesn’t prod. She’s probably thinking

that Kaveh’s soured scent has something to do with his aunt again, and she also knows that her fellow omega will tell her his troubles once he’s feeling better. For this, Kaveh’s thankful and he lets himself be led as Nilou tries to find a way to cheer him up.

She pulls him by

the counter.

“You’re just in time! I have good news for you!” Her hands start rummaging through a box that’s obscured by the counter top, and her face brightens once she’ve found whatever it is.

To Kaveh’s confusion, she pushes a rather heavy sack over to Kaveh with the all

too familiar clinking sound of mora.

“Your paintings’ been sold! And not just one, but three of them all at once!”

Now this is news Kaveh’s never expected to hear. Still, he looks at the bag of mora questioningly because there’s no way those paintings sold this much.

“Did you sell them with the usual price?”

“Yes.” Nilou nods happily. “But the buyer said that your paintings certainly cost more—or well, ‘should’ be priced higher— and then he just dropped this bag on the table and left!”

Unbelievable. After a beat, Kaveh hastily unties the

bag, meaning to inspect if it’s real mora that’s inside and that Nilou’s not been scammed. He’s has enough of being scammed today, thank you very much.

At his actions, his friend laughs.

“I’ve checked them, Kaveh. They’re real.” She leans forward and clasps his hands.

“Like I’ve been telling you for the longest time, you should stop selling yourself short.”

Kaveh could only sigh as he reties the bag. Nilou does the same, shoulders dropping when Kaveh pushes the bag towards her.

“Well then, you know what to do, Nilou.”

“Are you sure? With this amount, you can finally move out and get yourself a decent enough room down the street.”

And that has always been the plan, isn’t it? But things are too complicated now. Running away before seemed feasible because he’s sure that his aunt won’t bother

to look for him. He’s also certain that she’d be too happy to declare him dead. But now? With her impending riches and the baron’s shame of having a run away fiance on the line, Kaveh’s just looking for some bigger trouble. Worse, he’ll be pulling Nilou down with him.

He gently shakes his head and she gives up, hiding away the bag he’s meant to donate to the orphanage.

“I’ll just keep this here then, until Dehya needs them.” She says and gracefully changes the topic. “Now, how about I show the new brushes! They just arrived from Liyue.”

(interlude// Nilou and Kaveh):

Kaveh almost drops the bucket he’s holding when a sudden, high-pitched scream shatters the house. It’s followed by a succession of hurried footsteps, and he already feels dread washing over him as they get louder.

He counts in his head—3, 2, 1—

“YOU!” The door leading to the

back kitchens bursts open and there stands his cousins, eyes wide and whole demeanor maniacal. “Prepare our dress! We need them before five—no, we need them now!”

Kaveh means to ask why but he soon spots an envelope being waved by the other, so he nods his head, also not really

interested to start a conversation with them. He struggles to pour the water in the big pot where the cook is to boil and soften the chicken. But it seems that they won’t need to serve dinner as the sisters, and surely their mother, will be out for the night. Kaveh feels a

headache coming when they proceed to add a bunch of orders (shine my shoes! shine my gems! polish my rings but if you dare steal them oh so help me!) but he just silently files them in his head , already planning which ones to do first to end the entire fiasco fast.

Kaveh placates himself with the thought that the sooner they’re gone, the better. At the very least, he’s bound to enjoy a restful night.

When the sisters are gone, squealing and being an overall menace to the other maids in the house, Kaveh kindly informs the cook to prepare a

small meal for dinner instead before he heads off to prepare their dresses. For the most part, he expects his preparations for the sisters with minimal interruptions as the two are busy again with fantasizing and acting out the possibilities of how their night might end. But

a forceful knock on the door steals his attention away, and by threshold stands his aunt with a deep from on her face and and an already open letter in his fingers.

“You’re coming with us.” She says disdainfully. “The baron’s also been summoned and you’re to attend with him.”

His aunt then waves a hand as another maid enters, holding a white box. Kaveh already knows what’s inside.

“And look! The baron’s even kind enough to dress you up.” She says with a mocking grin. Kaveh ignores the snickers from his cousins. “Better hurry with their dresses.

Heaven knows it’ll take you a while to rid of your barn stench, but we cannot afford to be tardy and you are not to make your fiance wait.”

She makes an exit, her daughters following behind her probably to try on some of her jewelry. The maid carrying his dress looks at him

pitifully but he smiles back at her, a wordless reassurance that he’s fine. He’s heard worse.

“I’ll go ahead and put this quickly in your room, dear. Then I’ll help you with that.” She says and hurries off before Kaveh could give a word of thanks.

With another pair of hands, he finishes quickly with his task. Thankfully, other servants are assigned to do his cousins’ makeup so Kaveh’s left with enough time to clean himself and examine whatever outdated clothes the baron’s sent his way again. His fiance’s letter sits

atop it, familiar ugly scribbles lining the sheet of unscented paper.

Kaveh sighs, throws it in the bin by the wall, and accepts his fate. Then he opens the box and prepares himself for the disappointment—

the never comes.

Because the dress in the box is exquisite.

Kaveh’s eyebrows are up in the air as he takes the dress out, and his jaw hangs when he realizes it is indeed a proper dress and not one of those usual fitted corsets and sinfully fitted trousers the baron usually sends him. And the color? A deep teal from top to bottom,

which is far from the muted golds and dull yellows that the old man also loves, much to Kaveh’s distaste. He may have never been given the opportunity to wear expensive dresses and suits growing up, but Kaveh does understand fashion and is up to date with its trends. So he knows

just how top-of-the-line the dress in his hands now is.

But why the sudden change? Is there a catch?

Oh god. Is the old man planning something?

Kaveh’s hand instinctively flies to his neck, throwing the dress to his bed as if it’s burned him.

He wills himself to calm down.

What if the man simply needs him
to be extra pretty tonight? Is this evening’s host someone exceptional? A person he needs to impress and gain favors? Kaveh fetches the baron’s note, trying to search for clues.

‘The earl is hosting tonight’s ball. Look good.’ it says.

Alright, that’s close to his hunch. It’s not a lot but it’s enough to calm him down and will himself to examine the dress again. A two-layered thing with an outer skirt that would certainly flow when he walks. It’s also only now that he’s noticed a pair of shoes and gloves of the

same color.

This earl must really be an important person for the baron to actually spare some effort in dressing him up.

“Only tonight.” Kaveh tells himself. Just this once, he will try to find joy in the dress he’ll be wearing, because he is sure that the chances of it

happening again is just a percent, if not entirely zero.

He’s quick to get ready once he’s put his mind to it. There are fairly decent crystals that he can use from the baron’s last ‘gift’ to him weeks ago. Albeit on the cheap side, they don’t look like it once he’s worn them.

He fixes his hair, braids and pins securing a low bun in place. Kaveh then brings out his rouge, a gift from Dehya, and dusts his cheeks and lips lightly just enough to cover his paleness.

And just like that, he makes his way out. His aunt and cousins thankfully are long gone,

too excited to attend the earl’s party. Waiting for him is a coach sent by the baron because he’s never really come to fetch Kaveh himself during these events. By now, he’s more familiar with the coachman than his fiance after the many times he’s come to get the omega.

“Good evening, Farid.” Kaveh greets the other who was in the middle of adjusting the saddle. Upon hearing his voice, Farid turns.

“Good evening, Ka—“ and promptly, mysteriously loses his tongue at the sight of him.

“Farid?”

“I— uh, apologies. I simply,” He clears his throat.

“Good evening, Kaveh. What I mean to say is you look rather different, tonight, but in a good way. The best way! Honest.”

Kaveh laughs at this. “I know. I’m also surprised myself! It seems that the baron’s developed some taste.”

“The baron?”

“Yes. Did he not send this?”

“No?”

Farid scratches his chin. “I take care of his deliveries for you, and he hasn’t sent anything. Not that I know of.”

“Oh, then perhaps he sent someone else?” Kaveh mindlessly suggests as he hops inside. Farid considers the idea and nods his head with a shrug.

“Perhaps.”

They do not dwell much on it after, as everything’s just for the sake of small talk. Kaveh looks out the window and lets his mind drift off as always, making the most out of this momentary peace before he’ll have to force smiles again.

The ball is in full swing when he arrives, and the baron already looking impatient as he waits by door for Kaveh’s arrival. The omega had hoped that the man would be too busy bragging to his friends when he gets to the mansion so that Kaveh would have a few minutes to survey the

place for his late night escapes. But it would seem that he’s yet to start his bragging to others because Kaveh’s not there yet, and he’s been planned to be the old man’s main attraction for the night.

He readies himself for a brief lecture for his tardiness, but whatever his

fiance’s about to say dies instantly at the sight of him. So, it means Kaveh’s done a good job at looking presentable because the baron disgustingly roams his eyes at his entire body and the omega doesn’t miss how there’s a lingering stare to his neck. It might’ve not been a good

idea to tie his hair up tonight. Kaveh’s fears about the baron having ulterior motives for sending that dress comes back and he could only pray that the old man would get himself too drunk to do anything later.

He devices a plan to hand him wine as often as he could.

“How delightful,” The man praises and in no time has his arm around Kaveh’s waist. Despite the many instances he’s been subjected to this treatment, Kaveh knows he will never get used to it. “how are you tonight, my darling? To think that you’ve been hiding something like this

all along. Is today a special occasion?”

Kaveh doesn’t know what it is he’s hidden, but he only smiles instead of answering. Briefly, he considers that the old man’s pertaining to the dress, but it makes no sense because if it’s not from the baron, then who else?

“Let’s go.” He says without really waiting for Kaveh to answer. He doesn’t care for the omega’s thoughts anyway. Kaveh’s deduced that the decrepit alpha’s just so in love with his own image to the point that he likes hearing himself talk.

They go through the motions as usual. He’s brought around as the baron greets the others, only this time people seem to pay more attention to him, too, and Kaveh doesn’t know what to make it of it.

On one hand, it’s nice to be finally seen as someone worthy of being acknowledged

on the other, the stares he’s been receiving are a mix of malicious interest and, dare he say, envy. It surely is the fault of this stupid dress and now Kaveh wishes the baron’s just kept his consistency in choosing the most unflattering corsets for him if it really was him who

sent it (he’s genuinely starting to doubt that now. But he purposefully ignores the signs as they hardly make sense and he does not need additional stress tonight).

It felt like hours have passed before anything exciting happens, and it is marked by the collective murmurs

in the room. At this, his captor’s eyes brightens and then he’s being rushed towards where the crowd has parted. Kaveh realizes that the party’s host has finally decided to show their face and get the ball officially started. And of course, the baron shall not miss the chance to

shake the hand of the person he ultimately aims to impress, with Kaveh representing most of his so-called achievements and a symbol of his status.

The parted crowd becomes a line of significant people who would have the pleasure and privilege to speak with the earl, even if

only brief pleasantries. Kaveh lets himself be curious, eyes wandering, and it’s how he sees his cousins and aunt trying to breakthrough the front. They’re only mildly successful, but the other guests are just as enthusiastic as they are and so it’s also mostly a futile effort.

A forceful tug on his arm signals him to turn his attention back at the main event as the hosts move closer to where they stand. They’re a pair. A man and a woman, the earl and his aunt, both alphas.

Kaveh looks and recognizes the eyes that’s haunted him for weeks.

And they’re already staring right back at him.

He curses in his head.

Barely a week has passed since the incident at the market happened, and Kaveh still remembers clear as day, his promise never to look in the alpha’s way again. He’s breaking that now.
Try as he might,

when the earl narrows his eyes at him like a silent command, a minuscule movement he’s sure nobody else but him
has noticed, he finds it impossible to avert his gaze.

So he’s endures, ignoring the way his heart feels like it will lunge out of his throat any second now.

And in the span of them locking eyes with each other, Kaveh’s noticed two things: that the earl and his aunt is wearing the same colored clothes as his, a very similar color palette with the brilliantly placed whites and grays in their outfits, and that the entire place follows

the same color scheme, a deep teal that is obviously the family’s color.

Kaveh’s completed the puzzle and he finds that he loathes the answers he’s arrived to.

The similarities between his and the earl’s outfits are too obvious that it is bound to start unwanted rumors. If Kaveh’s lucky, he’d get away with a simple accusation of ‘trying hard’ or ‘desperate.’ If Kaveh’s to consider his magnet for misfortunes, he’d be the center of

scandalous assumptions.

What in the world is Alhaitham thinking?

The alpha barely breaks eye contact with him, only doing so to greet the guests that vie for his attention. His aunt does most of polite talk and acknowledgements. Kaveh tries to keep a straight face, but

finds it difficult when he’s simultaneously trying to communicate how much he feels wronged. Like he’s been cornered and put under the spotlight.

If people are yet to notice the similarities in their outfits, then they would soon do the moment Alhaitham stands before him.

Maybe he’s overthinking things. A quick sweep across the room and he spots a few guests who have also worn teal dresses. But they’re a different shade! Not the same exact deep color that his dress is made with!

Kaveh feels his lips tremble.

He wants to cry.

(interlude// Kaveh):

Kaveh’s upset.

The omega may have perfected masking his true feelings, but Alhaitham’s learned to see past through the facade. If only he could also learn to read Kaveh’s mind.

Kaveh’s upset and he has to quickly know why.

He leaves the greeting and small talk with his aunt Faruzan as they go further into the room. Alhaitham notes how many steps it would still take until they reach Kaveh and that garbage of a baron, who he really should get rid off soon. He counts fifteen. He has fifteen steps left

to figure out what’s in his omega’s mind and how to rectify it.

As he lists down all the factors, Alhaitham’s come to some of the most likely conclusions: one, Kaveh’s figured out who has sent the dress he’s wearing; two, he’s not pleased with that discovery; three, he’s upset

with Alhaitham; four…

“Can’t you be any more obvious?” Faruzan whispers as Alhaitham deliberately slows them down as the greet the next couple. He takes his eyes away from Kaveh for a second, just to nod his head and acknowledge whoever’s come to greet them next. Twelve steps

left, he notes again.

His eyes return to Kaveh, seeking answers, but the omega has found the strenght to avert his gaze and break their contact.

Then it clicks, and Alhaitham understands.

He waits until Faruzan’s ready to move to the next guest when Alhaitham refuses to budge. His aunt looks back at him questioningly, judgingly, an eyebrow raised as he bends down and tells her they’ve got to cut these greetings short.

“We’d run out of time before we could reach

the end of this line.”

She looks at him like she doesn’t believe him, but nonetheless she agrees.

From where they stopped, Faruzan signals someone on the other side of the room, by the staircase, and the music pipes down to a soft melody as one of her attendants calls for

everyone’s attention. As the woman delivers a speech to officially start the ball, Alhaitham takes this chance to slip away.

He glances at Kaveh, whose eyes are not trained at the floor, and then hurries off to find Cyno to quickly discuss a change of plan.

Truth be told, Alhaitham’s yet to give whatever he’s feeling towards Kaveh a name. Temporarily, he files it up to mere curiosity, a harmless interest that’s sparked after their exchange in the garden. The alpha has never cared for the dynamics society’s forced them in, so he’s

unfazed by how Kaveh’s responded to his matter-of-fact attitude, which usually would make anyone back off and leave him alone regardless if they’re an alpha, beta, or omega.

…Perhaps Alhaitham should admit that his intrigue had started that night at the library.

The accidental contact he’s made when Kaveh barreled into him
in the dark has left him with a hint of the omega’s scent, and the image of jewel-like eyes when he flashed the lamp on Kaveh’s face made such a strong impression that Alhaitham couldn’t bury and forget.

It’s grown worse, harder to forget, the impact that Kaveh’s left in him, when he sees the man fully under the glow of ballroom lights. Alhaitham’s made his way towards him before he could make sense of his actions, and he’s forcing out an introduction to another alpha by the

time he realizes what’s he’s doing. It’s when he learns of Kaveh’s name, and he never forgets it.

Their interaction in the garden is not something he’s planned. In fact, he’s yet to observe how Kaveh always makes an escape when his fiance’s too drunk
to notice his absence.

But he couldn’t deny that it was the turning point for him. Since then, he finds himself entranced at the sight of the man who’s always in the arms of someone he obviously loathes whenever they’d attend these uselessly lavish parties.

Alhaitham deduces that the omega’s trapped in an arranged marriage, pressured by his family and the connections they must sustain. The alpha makes a complete scenario in his head, of Kaveh being forced by a selfish noble father who’s very strict even by traditional standards.

He’s only, partly right. Kaveh’s indeed forced to wed the baron soon but it’s not to uphold their noble family’s honor name, but because he’s an unfortunate servant who captured the eye of a disgusting creature who wants to covet him as a plaything.

The revelation that Kaveh’s

a servant doesn’t sit right with Alhaitham because there are things that do not add up. He’d been sure that the omega is of noble birth; he could tell with the way Kaveh speaks and carries himself. His words and actions are of someone who’s received training in their early years.

The initial surprise he’s felt prevents him from going after Kaveh after possibly offending the man with his silence and giving him the wrong idea. But as he laments over losing him in the crowd, he also starts a plan to find out the truth and to make it up to the blond.

And so Alhaitham’s brilliant plan was to invite him to the ball. But oh, wouldn’t it be odd to send a lone invite to a servant? Fine, he sends everyone an invite, including the baron and including the family Kaveh’s been tending to.

Then he pays quite a sum to ensure that the dress he’s prepared would arrive at the same time with the baron’s summons for Kaveh, else it be mistaken as someone else’s. At first, he means to write his name, but even with the short moments he’s shared with Kaveh he knows

that the omega would have refused to wear his gift if he had known who sent it. So Alhaitham needs to get him into the dress first, and then he needs him to know in due time that it was him who gave it.

That explains the teal.

By the gods, Kaveh looks so lovely in his colors.

Back to the urgent matter at hand, Alhaitham finds Cyno at the most strategic spot in the ballroom where he could see everything that’s happening. The other’s leaning against the wall, silently observing. Alhaitham cuts to the chase.

“I need a distraction between the fourth and

fifth sets.”

Cyno’s brows furrow. “Isn’t that a bit early.”

“No.” Alhaitham looks out to the crowd and easily spots Kaveh who seems to be silently praying for the Earth to swallow him this instant. Cyno follows his gaze and scoffs.

“No more dancing?”

“No more dancing.” He confirms. “He doesn’t want attention.”

“You should’ve listened to Tighnari.” Cyno tuts. “He did warn you that matching outfits wouldn’t work.”

“I wanted him to know it’s
from me.”

“And now here we are.”

Alhaitham throws the other alpha a withering look.

The orchestra starts to go all out with their music and people have started to pair up. If Alhaitham’s original plan had worked, he would have found himself on the ballroom around the second or third sets with an omega who’s forgiven him for his behavior in the market. But things

do not always go to plan, and frankly, the alpha did not expect that he would face such a crisis. He’s believed that his gestures would be appreciated, even inspire some awe. The threat of tears was far beyond his imagination and now Alhaitham’s realizing how he may have gotten

too ahead of himself.

He shakes his head. There is no use dwelling on his mistakes now, because as the night passes he’s also running out of time, could possible miss his chance to apologize if he so as much makes another step in the wrong direction.

Kaveh’s never left his sight as he stays at a reasonable distance, enough for him to watch how the omega’s faring after the stunt he’s almost pulled for the entire ballroom to see. He’s glad that Kaveh seems to have calmed down, but the occassional glances to the other parts of

the room tells Alhaitham that he’s still tense and that he wants nothing more but to take his leave.

“Good evening, my lord.” A pair of voices dares pull his attention away, and when graces them with a glance they two ladies latch on his attention like parched beasts.

“Are you enjoying yourself, my lord?” “Are you in search of a partner for the next set?” “Are you thirsty? Would you like us to get you a glass of wine?”

The barrage of questions is a pain to the alpha’s ear and he almost cannot believe that they couldn’t take the hint as he’s

barely looked back at them again, his attention still transfixed at a certain omega on the other side, eyes noting every sign of discomfort. Ah, Kaveh must already tire of his shoes.

“How about some apple slices, my lord?”

Alhaitham turns at the mention of said fruits,

remembering how Kaveh seems
to love them. Would it make an acceptable peace offering? Without any hint of emotion on his face, he wordlessly takes the plate that’s offered to him and throws a quick thank you before he’s marching off to catch up where Kaveh and the baron’s headed.

He fails to see how the women he’s left behind cheers at the apparent attention he’s shown them, a delusional assumption but it’s not like Alhaitham has any care.

As he continues to watch, he’s noticed Kaveh staring longingly at the table that’s filled with desserts,
fruit

slices among them, and Alhaitham feels confident that he’s made the second correct step for the night. However, the realization that the baron’s yet to let Kaveh rest, or even have a drink, since they’ve arrived makes his blood boil.

Cyno then appears in front of the baron and

the group of alphas he’s engaged in a bragging contest with, a deck of cards in his friend’s hand. Whatever it is he says, Cyno’s managed to convince them to join him for a game in the adjacent room. Alhaitham sometimes forgets that the man carries a reputation of his own,

and so he’s confident that Cyno would manage to keep the baron occupied and stuck in a gambling match for hours, in a game that’s ‘only for alphas.’ When that old man whispers an order in Kaveh’s ear, surely an order to behave himself while he’s busy neglecting him, Cyno shoots

Alhaitham a look from across the room and nods his head. In response, the alpha lifts his bowl of sliced apples as if making a toast, and Cyno disbelievingly shakes his head at how ridiculous he might’ve looked.

Now on to more important matters, Alhaitham finds himself smiling

at the way Kaveh hurries towards the refreshments, walking in quick strides that it’s almost a run. And to Alhaitham’s next surprising discovery about the omega, he watches him take a glass of wine in each hand and downs them like he’s been roaming the desert for days, parched.

Perhaps, Alhaitham’s ought to offer him a bottle as well along with the fruits.

Just as quickly as Kaveh demolishes those glasses, he disappears further into the room and the crowd swallows him. This spurs the alpha to move, else he loses him. Kaveh seems to have a talent for

making himself invisible when he desperately needs to be alone. But Alhaitham cannot let him be this time. They need to reconcile, or just return back to the “not friends” “not enemies” relationship that they’ve forged for letting themselves act like children around each other.

(interlude// rip alhaitham)

He quickly snatches a bottle from the table where Kaveh’s been to before taking off to start his search. This may be Alhaitham’s house, but the fact proves unhelpful because of how he knows the dozens of places Kaveh could have run off to. In the few times he’s managed to locate

the omega in the parties they’ve attended together, he’d always find Kaveh in random places. At one point, even, the blond has taken a nap on tree branch. How he’s managed to climb up the towering Adhigama tree in tight fitting
pants and a much tigher corset is beyond Alhaitham,

but out of worry (an understatement because he’d almost ordered to have said tree cut off the next day), he stayed by trunk below in case Kaveh falls but he’d been also quick to hide himself at the first signs of the blond waking up.

It had been like that, with Alhaitham content

to let the other man be while he stays at a good distance, undetected and simply there in case something happens.

He traverses the hallway until there ‘s less and less people, dodging some of the guests’ attempts at making conversation and taking his time. Another thing he’s

observed whenever Kaveh hides himself away is that he goes to places where the music, nor any sound from the party, couldn’t reach him. So Alhaitham continues to walk until the orchestra’s music could no longer reach his ears, and he ends up all the way to other side of the

mansion, where there’s not a soul but him and, hopefully, Kaveh who could be somewhere near.

The alpha slows his pace in an attempt to soften the sound of his steps, and he’s glad he did for it doesn’t take long before he’s turning around a corner towards a corridor that’s

lit only by moonlight, and Kaveh standing still in the middle of it.

Alhaitham’s arrival still makes enough sound for the omega to notice, and the alpha’s right about the man surely planning to run away at the slightest sound that signals another’s presence.

He doesn’t even

bother checking who it is that’s found him, only instantly turns the opposite direction to keep his face hidden and to put a vast amount of distance as he could. The knee-jerk reaction of running after an omega who’s about to escape hits Alhaitham but he valiantly reigns it in.

Instead, he calls out, the same way he did the first time.

“Kaveh.”

And it keeps the blond rooted in place. Maybe it’s the familiarity of his voice. Maybe because he knows it’s Alhaitham.

The alpha slowly closes the distance and stops just a few steps shy from where Kaveh’s

rooted. He waits for the man to turn around, casts a quick glance at the apple slices to check if they’ve somehow formed spots with how Alhaitham’s carried them around the place.

“Good evening, my lord.” Kaveh greets, finally facing him, but his eyes refuse to meet his.

At first glance, anyone would have perceived his lowered head as a sign of submission. But Ahaitham easily spots the furrowed brows, the pursed lips, and the eyes that’s glaring at his shoes like they’ve personally offended him.

The alpha feels relieved. Kaveh’s upset, still,

but he looks very much prepared to throw punches if Alhaitham makes a wrong move. He’s not being treated with fear, or worse, indifference, as that would have meant he’s no longer someone that Kaveh cares about in any way.

Right. so.

Alhaitham doesn’t know what to say.

Does he apologize now? Should he offer the apples and wine first? Should return the greeting for starters?

“You look lovely.” The words are out of his mouth before he could stop them, but in hindsight Alhaitham should have known

that it would be immensely difficult
to control himself from making such comments.

It has honestly plagued him the entire time. The sight of Kaveh in a matching dress has sent his soul to heaven and back. Now seeing him upclose, the way it seems to brighten the omega even in

such poor light conditions, Alhaitham might as well let his mouth foam.

Unsurprisingly, it is the room thing to say. Kaveh’s eyes had grown wide and they fierecly stare back at the alpha.

“You!” Kaveh exclaims, his voice echoing down the hallway. “You—ugh!”

Not the wrong thing to say, apparently, but the worse thing to say as Kaveh starts walking away, snapping Alhaitham from his trance.

“Wait—“

“Don’t!”

“Kaveh.”

“Don’t say my name!” The omega abruptly turns, almost collides into Alhaitham again but he’s moved fast enough to

avoid it, taking a quick step back. “What is it that you want, my lord? Is there a second part to your pranks? Am I to expect a mob to arrive anytime soon?”

“I am confused.” Alhaitham admits. He’s ascertained that Kaveh loathes being the center of attention, and that the dress

has somewhat aided in his already eye-catching sublimity, but beyond that, the alpha’s already lost.

“You are confused? Then what of me?” Kaveh fires. “I AM confused, for I have no idea what it is that I did to be the butt of your cruel jokes! My lord, is it truly so shameful

to have wasted your time with a servant like me? You must know that I’ve told no one about ever meeting you. Your secret is safe and your reputation intact. Please leave me in peace.”

Upon hearing these words, the onsalught of accussations, it is Alhaitham’s turn to be truly

offended. He puts his peace offerings on the floor and then moves into Kaveh’s space, a step that compels the omega to take a step back as Alhaitham looks over him.

“Are you done with your assumptions? May I finally speak?” He asks sarcastically, silencing Kaveh.

“Because you see, I cannot for the life of me understand how you’ve arrived to such conclusions from a mere dress.”

“A dress in your colors!”

“And what of it!?”

Kaveh throws his arms in the air then looks at Alhaitham’s eyes, searching.

“Have you really no idea what

this could mean? The many stories that the public could weave from
having me match my clothes with you? And in a color the represents your family, no less!” The omega shakes his head, laughing in exasperation when Alhaitham remains mum.

“Oh how lucky you are to have such immunity against…” Kaveh looks like he’s about to cry again, but the tears never come. Instead, a tired sigh escapes his lips as his shoulders drop. When he speaks once more, it’s now softer, milder,
like he’s explaining to a child.

“If you had greeted me and the guests have taken notice of how similarly we are dressed, by the end of the night I would’ve already been the town’s whore, kicked out of the house, unemployed and denied new opportunities except in a whore house, all that for the mere idea that

I’ve matched my dress with you on purpose to try and gain your favor, to seduce you shamelessly despite being already in another alpha’s arm to whom I am engaged to.” Kaveh explains in a breath. “It’s the much awaited spark that could light up the scandal of the century.”

“Do you understand now?”

Yes. Yes he does and for the first time in his life, Alhaitham feels like a complete buffoon. Kaveh seems to perceive how he’s come to realize the weight and consequences of his actions as the omega finally eases. The fierceness in his eyes has dulled.

“Good. Now, my lord, if you wish to pull pranks on me then I implore you to find other ways. I’d take a beating in a secluded street corner any day than be subjected to being made a fool in front of everyone.”

Alhaitham does understand the situation now but Kaveh hasn’t, and he

has to resolve this fast before the omega comes up with more ridiculous, undeserved punishments.

“The dress is not meant to humiliate you in any way.” Alhaitham clears. “It’s meant to be a gift. As simple as that.”

“A gift.” Kaveh deadpans.

“Yes. Or more accurately, a peace

offering. I wish to apologize for the way I reacted in the marketplace.” He elaborates. “I do not truly care if you’re a servant or not, I just assumed you’re of noble birth so it came to me as a surprising discovery.”

“…you wish to apologize, and your first bright idea is to

make me wear a matching set?”

“…”

Kaveh raises a brow and Alhaitham silently stares back. Disregarding how it could have fed the rumor mill, is the idea of wearing matching clothes truly so lame and embarrassing?

Instead of answering, Alhaitham tries to steer the

the conversation in another direction.

“Seeing how unsatisfactory this gift has been, I insist you tell me what else you would like to receive.” He declared confidently, “name anything and I shall give it to you with the best of my abilities.”

Kaveh raises a brow.

“Anything?”

“Anything. To make up for the misunderstandings and undue stress I’ve caused you.”

Alhaitham feels his heart hammering in his chest when he finally sees the familiar spark of mirth in Kaveh’s eyes. The omega’s not quite smiling yet, intent perhaps on teasing him. But the alpha

now feels relieved.

“This painting, then.” Kaveh waves to the landscape painting on the wall. Alhaitham doesn’t even spare it a glance when he nods his head.

“Done.”

“I jest.”

“It is yours.”

“No.” There’s laughter in Kaveh’s voice now. “Unbelievable. Did you not pay a huge

sum of mora for this painting?”

“I did. But it’s of no consequence.”

“I really want to punch your face.” Kaveh mutters, probably thinking that Alhaitham’s barely heard his words but he’s understood them clear as day. “Are you sure you it’s worth the price? This painting doesn’t

look anything special. Perhaps you’ve been scammed?”

“That never happens to me.” Alhaitham turns to look at the artwork as well. “If anything, I would think that the gallery owner’s been scamming the artist of this work, for she’s priced it ridiculously low. This is definitely

worth more. I know quality when I see it. Such a shame that the artist hasn’t signed it.”

There’s a pinched look on Kaveh’s face, one the Alhaitham misses.

“So, do you wish to take home this painting?”

“I told you, no.” Kaveh rolls his eyes before his sight lands on the items

Ahaitham has placed on the floor. “But if you’re about to pester me to think of one, those apples and that wine would be good starters. Then perhaps, some place I can enjoy them in peace.”

It’s only then that Alhaitham remembers the other peace offerings he’s brought. He hastily

picks them up as soon as they’re pointed out.

“I know of a place. Would you mind if I joined?”

“Are you going to be a bother?”

“That depends.”

“Always choosing to be difficult.”Kaveh saya with no real bite. “Lead the way then, my lord.”

(interlude// alhaitham putting apples on the floor before arguing):

Alhaitham’s seen Kaveh’s first genuine smile for the night and promptly makes it his mission to see more of it. He’s taken the omega to the library, remembering the man’s words, at how it entertains them. Back then, Alhaitham had assumed that Kaveh’s indulged in fiction books,

those novels that talk of romance and princesses, and grand adventures. When the man had left with a brisk thank you a good, more than respectable distance away from where Alhaitham was, he let his curiosity get the best of him and walked towards the section where Kaveh’s been.

There were no romance and adventure novels on that shelf, only complex paperbacks that talk of architecture, inventions, and art. Of sculptures and pyramids, of recycling metal parts and how the wheel is a purely man-made invention that’s not inspired by anything in nature.

Alhaitham had been confused, but seeing how now, Kaveh’s swept past the fiction novels in search of other titles, the alpha confirms that the blond’s interest indeed lies in buildings and mechanisms.

When Kaveh smiles for the second time that night upon spotting a book he favors

Alhaitham files the image in his mind and counts it as another victory.

It’s a book that Kaveh’s already read through multiple times in different stolen occassions. Most noble’s houses has them, and he’s managed to borrow a copy briefly from a passing merchant, allowing him

to rent it out for a few days because he could not afford to buy it.

“There’s still a lot I haven’t covered yet.” Kaveh shares as they settle on the floor. Alhaitham means to take him by the chaise at least, where a brighter lamp light could help him read better. But Kaveh l

looks comfortable and he feels that the omega would prefer their current position now than moving somewhere else. So Alhaitham simply does the same, sitting across Kaveh and leaning back on the shelf opposite him.

And he lets Kaveh chatter about everything and anything.

At one point, he even closes his eyes, still very much listening to every word and offering his own thoughts when Kaveh asks for them. He hears the book close and thinks nothing of it, most likely Kaveh's about to find himself another one now that he's exhausted its pages.

It's not until something's changed in the air he's breathing that Alhaitham's eyes snap open, and he dare not move at the discovery that the omega now crouches by his side, close enough for Alhaitham to catch a lungful of his scent.

He dares not move, not that he actually can,

Even an attempt to lift a finger becomes impossible with the unexpected proximity Kaveh's placed themselves in for a reason the alpha couldn't fathom.

"I have a question." Kaveh finally says as he looks Alhaitham in the eyes. "Back at the market, you reacted so strongly

at the news of me being a servant. Is it odd for me to find it... odd?"

So this is what it's about. Alhaitham clears his throat but Kaveh's not done yet.

"Be honest, did you have me investigated?"

"What gave you that idea?"

"Because you looked like I accused you of being

delusional, and that you're the kind of person who'd go through lengths to prove me wrong."

Alhaitham hums as if considering what Kaveh's just said, but he doesn't really need to ponder such things because, amazingly, the omega's got it right.

He leans towards the other's

space as if conspiring, and hears the hitch in Kaveh's breath as his own scent permeates the air between them.

"And if I did, maybe, ask around, what say you?" He questions and Kaveh wrinkles his nose.

"That you're truly terrible at making friends."

"Friends."

"Is it too presumptuous of me to consider us friends now?"

At this point, Alhaitham doesn't even know if he's being teased, at what the omega's playful tone and stare could possibly be implying. It takes the best of his abilities to take everything in stride and match

his energy. That's why he pretends to think about it for a second before nodding.

"No, it's not." Alhaitham confirms, even if leaves a bitter taste in his tongue. "We're friends. And now that that's clear, can I expect that the next time I call for you, I won't be ignored?"

"I don't recall ever ignoring you."

"At the marketplace, I did, but you still left. I had meant to apologize back then."

Kaveh gasps and almost laughs as he finds this funny. "You've taken that to heart!"

"Yes. I do not want leaving things unsettled." Alhaitham grimaces.

"Just look at the lengths and mess I've went through just to apologize properly to you." He nods at the dress and this time, Kaveh truly laughs, lets his body slump sideways against the binding of the book on the wooden shelf.

Alhaitham then tilts his body more towards him. As the laughter dies down, with Kaveh fanning himself with a gloved hand, taking on a more serious tone Alhaitham pleas, "When I call for you, come to me, Kaveh."

In his mind, he utters this request as if he's talking about

any other normal topic and thinks nothing of it. But if the room has been lit, maybe Alhaitham would've noticed how his companion's complexion turns into cherries. What he does hear is an incomprehensible muttering, but when he asks for Kaveh to repeat them and say the words

louder, the blond huffs and looks at him from the side of his eyes.

"I was talking to myself. Don't butt in." And with that, the omega puts a considerable distance between them again as he stands up and marches away to hunt for another book. "And don't follow me!"

All too soon, the night comes to an end and they must part ways. As Alhaitham strides down the halls with purpose, he remembers the way Kaveh has flailed at forgetting the time in fear of being hunted down by the baron because it's been hours since he's left his side.

But the alpha reassures him that he's had it taken care of, and even if Kaveh accuses him of being so conniving, the relief was unmistakable as his souring scent quickly disperses. Alhaitham is pleased with himself yet again, and sends Kaveh back home with a personally picked

and trusted coachman.

With the assurance that Kaveh's enjoyed his freedom tonight and that he's safely been brought back to his residence, Alhaitham also returns back to business.

He doesn't bother knocking as he enters one of the receiving rooms, and he catches Cyno midpour,

a whiskey bottle and glass in his hands.

"Found anything interesting about the baron tonight?" He asks in lieu of a greeting and Cyno doesn't take any offense. They were never one to beat around the bush, but the way the other alpha grins in his glass is very telling that he

may have had discovered so much more.

"You would think that these posturing fools are the chatterboxes in the streets they keep complaining about with how much they gossip." Cyno complains. "But at the very least, they've been very helpful with our cause tonight."

(interlude//

Alhaitham: “we’re friends.”

also alhaitham):

Another earth-shattering scream disturbs the peace and Kaveh briefly wonders if that’s about to be a daily thing in this household. A shame, really, because peaceful times in that house are already so very few. A passing maid turns at Kaveh’s direction. It goes unspoken but the

she shakes her head indicates how she shares the same sentiments. They flinch when another shout follows before they return back to their respective duties, her about to do the laundry and Kaveh to change the drapes in the foyer.

He brings a tall ladder against the wall where

he could easily unhook the metal rod that’s held the heavy fabric. Clipping his fringes with red pins, he climbs up and gets to work. In the midst of him slowly pulling the drapes off the rod, he hears a tired a sigh beneath and he doesn’t need to look to know who’s come to find

him to complain about the masters of the house again.

“Won’t you ever consider an uprising?” Yasmin queries for hundredth time, maybe, but Kaveh’s failed to keep count. “I’d dress you up, any day, instead.”

“What has happened?” He asks and she groans, a ready complaint
on her

lips. She extends her arms
forward to catch and fold the drapes as they fall off inch by inch.

“I came to tell them of the visitor, and then they screamed at me to get out. Then! They ordered me to come back and help them get dressed!” She says rather loudly, confident that

noone’s around to hear her or tell on her. “Now, Sabah’s helping them with the rouge. A futile attempt, honestly. No amount of reds would ever make them look nearly as beautiful as you!”

“Oh hush!” Kaveh’s laughing now as he finishes.

“Why? It’s true! I saw you before you left

last night for the ball.” Yasmin tells him and she almost sounds accussing if Kaveh hadn’t known her well. “Now, trying to look like ‘that’ would be an impossible feat. They’d sooner turn back into their original goblin forms than ever reach that level of beauty. Don’t get me

wrong; you are lovely everyday I, too, envy you sometimes til’ I remember how selfless you are to a fault. But anyway,” She’s relentless in her chatter, mouth running even as she follows Kaveh who’s moved on to tend to the drapes on the next window. “as I was saying, I saw you

last night and your visage almost has me faint! That dress certainly
suits you!”

“Exactly my thoughts.” Another voice chimes in before Kaveh tells Yasmin to shut it.

They both whip their heads towards the new comer, almost breaking their necks as they did in fear that someone

who’s not supposed to hear such conversation has managed to eavesdrop. Much to Kaveh’s relief, it’s only Alhaitham—

wait.

“G-good morning, my lord!” Yasmin squeaks and bows in greeting. She keeps her head
down even as she straightens, and then takes a step back until she

stands by Kaveh’s ladder, a good distance away from the alpha. Yasmin throws Kaveh a quick, nervous look, and he could only mirror it back before also bowing as much as he could atop that ladder, at Alhaitham in acknowledgement of his presence.

He hears clambering footsteps

from the distance and as Yasmin throws him another look, this time with panic in her eyes,
Kaveh hastily climbs down, fast enough before Alhaitham could extend a hand to help him as he sets his feet on the ground.

“Forgive us, my lord, but we must take our leave.” Kaveh doesn’t

look at Alhaitham, who’s adorably confused at the tension he and Yasmin’s obviously manifests.

But see, it’s been a general rule in this house for Kaveh never to be seen, much less stay somewhere near alpha visitors who are mostly likely there for morning calls. In fact, the

omega is always kicked out of the house during these visits and asked to return at dusk, even if those calls are done by noon because there’s really not a lot who’d come. Yasmin has another quip about that, but that’s for another day.

In their hurry, she pushes Kaveh and leads

him out the other door, not wanting him to be caught in any trouble. She’s seen enough of how his supposed family’s been treating him, and as a dear friend, she tries to protect him in her own, small ways.

Even if it means throwing the dusty drapes over Kaveh as his cousins

barge through the doors excitedly, their mother in tow. They are yet to notice Yasmin and Kaveh, who now slowly attempts to inch towards the door as soon as the masters of the house stand before Alhaitham.

“Hang on, Kaveh.” Yasmin whispers and Kaveh appreciates her greatly.

“My lord!” The girls greet Alhaitham with so much cheer, and Yasmin doesn’t bother to hide the grimace on her face as she gently guides Kaveh out, making sure they’d avoid any furniture.

“This is such a pleasant surprise!” One cousin says while her sister simultaneously says

“We’ve been expecting you!”

It’s an awkward contrasting statement that makes the two elbow each other. It’s subtle, but Alhaitham raises a brow in judgement and it the small change in his features doesn’t escape Kaveh’s aunt. She steps in front of her daughters, taking over

to prevent them from making a mess of themselves further.

“Please excuse them. My daughters are simply lively in the morning, and to have the esteemed earl pay us a visit is just delightful.” She explains, voice soft and gentle. From under the drapes, Kaveh hears Yasmin her say

something along the lines of a devil in disguise, of horns hidden beneath a large hairdo and tail tucked in petticoats. The aunt goes on, “I must admit I’m curious myself; for whom is this call, my lord?”

Kaveh winces at how straightforward she is, but he supposes that after

all the failed instances (all blamed at him, of course, even after they’ve started sending him away during these visits), his aunt is becoming a tad desperate. Nevertheless, he deliberately tries to slow down their pace, sharing his aunt’s curiosity about Alhaitham’s visit.

Yasmin doesn’t seem to mind for she, too, had almost paused as she tries to absorb today’s gossip.

“I’m afraid this isn’t a call, my lady.” The alpha clears. Oh, Kaveh’s sorely tempted to remove the drapes covering him just to see his aunt’s face.

“Although I did come here looking for someone.” Alhaitham finishes. Hearing this, Kaveh’s eyes widened and then tries to move forward, spurring Yasmin to continue their exit. He’s got a bad feeling about this, and even with the drapes obscuring his sight he feels Alhaitam

looking at his direction, a reasonable hunch for he’s the only one the alpha knows in this house.

“Go, go,” He whispers hotly, hoping to get out before Alhaitham can say anything else. But his friend can’t hear him through the thick fabric and she still stalls, finding joy in

his aunt’s and cousins’ devastated faces.

“Do you mean us, my lord?” His one cousin pipes in. “Our meeting was but a few minutes but it was unforgettable.”

“Truly,” Her sister adds, “we offered you some fruits, apples if I recall correctly, and you’ve accepted them excitedly!”

Alhaitham takes a moment to look at their faces and yes, he has a vague memory of snatching a bowl of sliced apples from someone, thinking it a brilliant way to move a certain omega’s heart.

“I don’t remember any of you.”

He does remember them.

“Oh lord that’s embarrassing.” Yasmin whispers to Kaveh. She’s stopped pushing him again, clearly enjoying the spectacle.

Kaveh remembers the time when Alhaitham’s also spoken to him in this tone, like he couldn’t be bothered with Kaveh at all even if he were to drown in front

of him. Truth be told, there’s not much that changed in the way the alpha’s answered them, just that Kaveh’s now aware rude Alhaitham can easily sound like with the way he spits truths matter of
factly.

He ought to teach him how to put people down gently.

“I did not come here for any of you.” Alhaitham continues and Kaveh wants to strangle him. Is the alpha doing this on purpose? How insensitive!

“Deserved.” Yasmin grins and Kaveh tries to elbow her blindly but fails.

“Pardon me, my lord,but you said you’re looking for someone?”

“Indeed.” Alhaitham rests his hand atop his cain and pretends to look around.

“Then,” The madam of the house looks wildly confused, “I’m afraid it’s only us three here, and the servants. It must be one of my lovely daughters you’re searching for.”

“We believe we’re the only

ones you’ve spoken to, my lord. The people say you haven’t danced, much less conversed, with the other guests last night.” One daughter insists. The desperation is pitiful but Yasmin feels highly entertained. She ignores Kaveh’s hand, tugging at the drapes to get her moving.

“I’m afraid I have no recollection of ever meeting you,” Alhaitham tells her then turns to her mother. “My lady, are you quite sure it’s only you three here?”

“Yes, my lord. Just us and our maids.”

“And what of your nephew?”

The silence that envelopes the room is unbelievable

one would’ve heard a pin drop. Even Yasmin’s rendered speechless, the comment on her lips dying in an instant. Kaveh rigidly stands like a lamp and he very much well be turned into one.

There’s a disbelieving exchange of looks between the mother, her daughters, and at Yasmin

and her suspicious companion hidden beneath the drapes. Kaveh doesn’t need to see to know that his aunt’s glaring at him like he’s massacred her family.

Even with the obvious stares thrown his way, the aunt makes another futile attempt to deny the existence of said nephew, much

to Alhaitham’s displeasure.

“You must be mistaken—“

“I am not.”

As the gravity of the situation dawns on the people present, Yasmin finally moves, thinking she must get Kaveh out and away from this conflict. By night, when noone else is awake, the poor omega would surely

suffer scathing words and bruising hits from his aunt. How he’s never considered fighting back is beyond Yasmin, so she does what she can to save Kaveh from their wrath.

Unfortunately, it’s the moment they’ve taken steps towards the doors that Alhaitham now clearly expresses

how he’s tired of these games. He sighs and turns his head at the runaways.

“Kaveh.”

Like a spell that’s been cast, the omega’s feet instantly stays glued, unbudging. Yasmin collides against his back. Another silence stretches and he feels the supportive squeeze on his shoulder

as Yasmin wordlessly tells him she’s ready to make a run for it if Kaveh decides it’s the best course of action.

But he’s not running away this time. Kaveh, unable to resist the call of his name, sighs and slowly pulls the drapes off his figure. He attempts to shoot the alpha

an unimpressed look before bowing in greeting, Yasmin copying his movements.

“Good morning, my lord.” He says. If there were no other people around, he can think of many creative ways to wipe away the pleased look on Alhaitham’s face. How truly and fondly vexing, this man.

He stares as Alhaitham makes his way to him, and he doesn’t dare glance at his aunt’s direction.

“Was it fun, pretending to be a walking lamp?” Alhaitham gestures
at the drapes that’s pulled on his feet and takes Kaveh’s all to make faces at him. Keeping the polite smile,

matching it with a glare, he fakes a laugh and nudges the drapes with his feet, putting them behind him.

“We were in the middle of replacing them, my lord.” Kaveh explains as if the other hadn’t seem them moments ago doing just that.

“I see,” To the omega’s amusement, the earl

fakes a rather convincing frown like he’s truly saddened. “I mean to take you somewhere, but if you’re truly busy—“

“He’s not!” Yasmin hastily interjects, no longer caring. “Kaveh’s just helping me! But I can finish the task and there are other servants in the house—my lord.”

Kaveh shoots her an incredulous look. Does she even realize she’s basically invited the ire of his aunt? But Yasmin’s already bundling up the drapes from the floor and Alhaitham looks approvingly at her before turning back to Kaveh.

“That’s great news.”

But of course, his aunt refuses to let this happen without further attempting to dissuade the earl.

“My lord, wherever it is I am sure that my daughters would be a better company.”

At this, Alhaitham looks at them with doubt as clear as day on his face. Kaveh realizes that the

man could be as expressive as any other person, just that he only chooses to be when the situation calls for it and make things convenient.

“Does any of your daughters know anything about art?” Alhaitham asks and the lady is quick to confidently say yes, even if said daughters

look at each other nervously, giving away the fact that they don’t.

“Of course, my lord. They’re artists themselves!”

Lies.

“Then, can they tell me about that painting?”

Alhaitham points at a portrait on the wall. The aunt throws her daughters a look, a silent command to

better get their wits together and say something, anything that at least sounds smart. But the stammering gives it all away and Alhaitham, once again, makes his disappointment obvious. Kaveh thinks the alpha enjoys doing these exaggerated expressions.

“I suppose not.” He says.

“We better get going. The day’s too short I fear it’d be over too soon.” Alhaitham tells him.

“Give me a moment to tidy myself up, my lord.” Kaveh tries to excuse himself, suddenly aware of his servant clothes, hastily clipped pins, and messed up hair with strands probably

upright with how they’ve rubbed against the drapes for a while, causing static. But the other man shakes his head.

“No need. In your friend’s
words,” He glances at Yasmin. “You look lovely everyday.”

If it were only possible to melt and turn into a pool of mud, Kaveh would’ve

gladly did. How embarrassing and does Alhaitham not feel shame in saying those words like he’s some prince in a romance novel? At his words, Yasmin nudges Kaveh’s arm, positively beaming.

Ugh! They should get out of here now else Alhaitham pulls more of these flustering tricks!

“Then we better get going.” Kaveh signs for Alhaitham to leave but the alpha raises an arm and
gestures for Kaveh to go first. The omega shoots a worried glance at his friend who otherwise looks like she’s won the lottery, cheeks straining from smiling.

Kaveh briskly walks out the door, pointedly not looking at the man following behind him and the other maids who have gathered to gossip. Yasmin chatters to them
as soon as she’s out the foyer.

“I like your friend.” Alhaitham comments and Kaveh couldn’t help but smile at that.

(interlude//
Alhaitham: “You look lovely everyday.”

Yasmin to Kaveh):

Kaveh endeavors to make himself presentable, which is challenging without a mirror and because they are currently out and about on the streets. He’s taken the red hair clips off and tries to tame his bent fringes, combing them down with his fingers until they naturally frame his

face. He’s putting up a valiant effort and is not amused at how Alhaitham’s merely looking at him like he’s the most fascinating creature he’s ever seen.

“Were you not taught that it is rude to stare?” Kaveh lectures as he deftly braids a lock of hair.

“And did I not say that

you do look lovely? I meant what I said.” Alhaitham answers, earning him an eye roll and a scoff.

“That trick’s not going to work again. And I also cannot believe you were able to say such thing with a straight face! How exceptionally brave and shameless.” Kaveh says, not

knowing how the red that dusts his cheeks betrays his words. Alhaitham doesn’t comment further, content on enjoying the sight. “Anyway, you are lucky I hadn’t been working at the stable this morning, else I would’ve been covered by stains. But still, at the very least you should

have let me fix my hair.”

“How many times do I have to tell you that wouldn’t be necessary?” The alpha sighs. “Whether you believe the sincerity of my words or dismiss them as shallow flattery, you have to know that I do not lie.”

“Regardless! I would’ve liked to appear

presentable and not embarrass you. I haven’t the idea of where you’re even taking me and who we might meet along the way.”

“You could never embarrass me.” There’s a rawness in Alhaitham’s blatant honesty that has Kaveh flustered. He tries to hide his face behind an arm as he

reaches back, his red clips pinning more strands of hair in place. “Also, you don’t know where I plan to bring you and yet you still choose to come? I’m worried about your survival, Kaveh.”

“You!” The omega gawks and then promptly reigns in his annoyance. He breathes out slowly

then raises a brow at Alhaitham. “You are absolutely right. I should think about my decisions more thoroughly, shouldn’t I?”

He stops and makes for a turn. The panic on Alhaitham’s face at the threat of him leaving is priceless.

“I say that in jest—“

“I’m truly sorry for making you solve the mystery of how I’m still breathing today given my terrible survival skills. And so after further reflection, I’ve decided to go back.”

It’s Alhaitham’s words from the first night they’ve met at the garden, and he could tell that the

alpha recognizes them with how his brows have shot up. As pitiful as he looks, Kaveh aims to teach the poor fellow a lesson, and so he still makes a turn and starts walking back.

“Kaveh—“

“Goodbye, my lord.”

“No, Kaveh please wait—“

He stops right before Alhaitham could

grab his arm, turning abruptly that surprises the other man and just in time for him to catch the sheer terror on his face. Ah, Kaveh’s enjoying this, being the one to make fun of Alhaitham this time and not the other way around.

“Kaveh,”

“I say that in jest.” He copies, and

then starts walking back again to the direction where they are originally headed. “Let’s go, my lord. The day might end before we even know it.”

There’s a satisfied grin on his face as he walks leisurely, hands behind his back, as he waits for Alhaitham to match his pace again.

The alpha mutters something that Kaveh doesn’t catch but he doesn’t ask, presuming it some kind of a complaint. Instead, he asks, “Tell me then, what errands might you have that requires my presence, of all people.”

“Nothing dire.” The man answers once he’s recovered his bearings. “I just wanted to argue.”

“You just wanted to what?” Kaveh asks disbelievingly.

“I wanted to argue,” Alhaitham smirks. “and who else can I best have an argument with but you?”

Kaveh cannot believe his ears but he finds himself grinning back.

“I’m sure there’s a ton of people who would vie for a chance to debate with you. In fact, they wouldn’t even have to try! You’re easily disagreeable.”

“True, but the difference is that the others are annoying,”

The earl says unapologetically. “You, on the other hand, are entertaining—”

“Entertaining!? So you do admit you find joy in my misery!”

“and educating.” Alhaitham finishes, not minding the interruption.

“Entertaining and educating? What—wait,”

It dawns on Kaveh in startling realization, like a child looking up and discovering for the first time how the moon has followed him persistently no matter the many miles he’s traveled, peering into window sills. Alhaitham obviously tries not to be smug, letting Kaveh brew in

this information alone. All this time! Can you imagine? He doesn’t even bother to raise his voice as he stares ahead in disbelief.

“Of course, who else would be rude enough to accuse me of being a thief!” Kaveh says under his breath. “A thief, in a library! Unbelievable! What

would I even steal there? Knowledge? The one thing said that can never be stolen by anyone from you?”

“Many of those books are printed in few copies and they’d fetch a handsome price.” The alpha reasons.

“‘You’d’ fetch a handsome price.” Kaveh says mockingly, realizing late

what his words imply. As soon as he does, he walks ahead briskly, refusing to let the alpha use it as another opportunity to tease him.

Also, he’ll need space to think about this suspicious, serendipitous encounter and how it’s leaving weird thoughts and feelings in his brain.

“I really ought to go back and leave you here.” Kaveh says as soon as Alhaitham returns to his side.

“Please don’t.”

“Your friendship skills are from hell.” He points out. “First you accuse me, then you have me investigated—“

“You sound so sure I’ve hired
someone to

gather information about you”

“I never told you that I’m the lady’s nephew.” He fires back and Alhaitham hums, acknowledging the mistake that’s given him away. Not that it matters greatly at this point. Kaveh waves his arms as of trying to disperse a cloud. “Ah, let’s not talk

about that. Fine, I shall not revoke your friendship status—“

“May I ask for an upgrade?”

“Don’t push it, my lord. Or I shall literally push you in that puddle.” That effectively silences the alpha and Kaveh tries not to dwell on whatever he meant by an upgrade. Great friends?

Close friends? Very close friends?

Kaveh huffs. This is hardly the time and place to think about these things, especially not when the alpha’s here to make fun of how it’s so easy to elicit reactions from him. Although, if he must know, Kaveh’s not as expressive as when he’s

with others. Thus, he must be extra vigilant around the person who could rile him up with just a snap of a finger.

“Now would be a good time to tell me where we’re headed.” He says, attempting to change to topic. They’ve found themselves back in the market, the stalls and signs

so very familiar that Kaveh could draw them easily even with his eyes closed. To his relief, Alhaitham also does not pursue any talks of Kaveh’s aunt and this odd companionship they’ve developed.

“There is a small gallery at the quieter parts of this street.” Alhaitham answers.

“I have been there once as it was recommended by Candace, a good friend of mine, when I was in search of unique decor as requested by my Aunt Faruzan.” There’s quite a few shops down the road and Kaveh mentally goes through them as Alhaitham talks. “I was able to procure some

pieces. A few paintings. You’ve seen one of them, if you could remember.”

Kaveh tries to think of any beautiful paintings he’s encountered, but none comes to mind. The earl could tell that he fails to remember what he’s pertaining to so he adds, “It’s the one that you asked for

when I told you I’d give you anything just so you would forgive me.”

Huh? But isn’t that…

“T-the one that doesn’t look as expensive as you claim it to be?”

“Like I said, I chose to pay a higher price as it deserves as much, if not more.” Alhaitham insists. “But yes, it

is that art piece I was referring to. The unsigned one.”

Kaveh’s mortified.

He’s careful not show it in his face, but his heart feels like it’s about to explode. All of this is too much to take in, too many revelations and realizations, and it’s not even noon time!

The omega knows exactly where Alhaitham’s taking him, knows why the painting’s unsigned, knows who has painted that piece using the cheapest paint and
brushes available to commoner hands.

It’s his work.

He has to let Nilou know, in some way, to keep it secret.

Planning proves to be difficult when he’s got a surprisingly talkative man that keeps distracting him. It’s unfair how Alhaitham can easily fool anyone that they’d barely get a word out of him when in fact, he’s relentless in his quips and rebuttals, there’s a reason why Kaveh’s

talking as much as he does now. Needless to say, this distraction, while welcome, has prevented the blond from coming up with a plan until they’ve arrived at Nilou’s doorstep and it’s too late.

“Is something the matter?” The alpha asks when Kaveh pauses in his tracks and stares

dreadfully at the door. He, of course, dismisses Alhaitham’s concern with a wave and a nervous laugh that’s hopefully convincing.

“Let’s head in.” He says and then insists for the other to step inside first. He earns a questioning glance but is thankful that the earl says

nothing more and simple opens the door, Kaveh in tow. The bell chimes and he hears Nilou’s cheery greeting almost immediately while he tries to hide behind Alhaitham’s broad back.

“Oh it’s you, my lord, and you’ve brought company!” Nilou sounds delighted at having more people in

her shop. She leans and tries to catch a glimpse of Kaveh,who has his head ducked and body turned away even as they go in further. But there’s only so much he can do to delay the inevitable. So he’s decided, before Alhaitham can catch that something’s off, he turns and

immediately tries to signal Nilou to stop and don’t call his name.

“Oh! Ka—“ She starts and Kaveh forms a giant ‘X’ with his arms, mouth silently forming the word ‘no’ and face just doing all these exaggerated expressions that at the very least has Nilou confused enough to stop

speaking. However, the way her brows knit has Alhaitham following her questioning look and Kaveh has to hastily try and act as normal as ever the second those calculating eyes land at him.

So Kaveh takes the initiative to protect his own secret by stepping upfront and taking

Nilou’s hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. With his back facing Alhaitham, the man couldn’t see his face as he tries to converse with his friend through pleading eyes.

“Hello, I’m Kaveh!” He says a bit too cheerfully. One thing about Nilou that Kaveh really likes is how, even

in the most dire and confusing instances, the smile never leaves her face. The other thing is how she’s way more perceptive than she looks, and that angelic smile on her face is the perfect facade for keeping secrets such as this.

“Nilou!” She mirrors the greeting, still unsure

of what’s happening but deciding to trust Kaveh, for which he’s extremely thankful. After fake pleasantries are exchanged, she turns back at Alhaitham but not without one last glance at Kaveh who forms a tinier, unnoticeable ‘X’ with his fingers, hidden from Alhaitham’s view.

“What can I help you with today, my lord?”

“Do you remember the works I’ve bought my last visit?” He asks and Nilou nods, again glancing at Kaveh briefly. The omega on the other hand averts his eyes and pretends to take interest in the small potted plant on one of the tables.

“I would like to ask if you have more from that same artist, if not in that same style.”

“Oh! Yes we do!” She exclaims, a sparkle in her eyes. “I have them at the back. Please wait here.”

“Aren’t they too heavy to carry?” Kaveh asks out of genuine concern. He knows there’s

still a few pieces left from when he’s had an art frenzy, but not all of them are small enough to be carried by Nilou alone.

“Are there many left?” Alhaitham follows and Nilou looks up the ceiling, trying to recall how many there still is. Alhaitham’s already taken three from

his last visit, so that would mean,

“There’s still four more.” She answers, “Perhaps if you would tell me what kind of image you’re looking for, I could just take that one out.”

“Very well,” Alhaitham takes a moment to think about it. “My grandmother loved the painting of the

countryside. If you have something close, that would do.”

Ah. So that painting’s been taken also. It’s not the one he’s seen at the corridor in Alhaitham’s house and Kaveh wonders where that piece of his could’ve been displayed in that vast mansion.

Nilou’s quick to fetch the

landscape painting, still wrapped in soft cloth and ropes. She deftly unties it and removes the cover, and Kaveh also waits for the reveal in bates breath.

His fingers curl against his palms as his painting of his childhood home appears before his eyes. It’s been a while since

he’s made that piece, and years since he’s seen the actual place itself. He wonders what’s become
of that place.

Alhaitham hums approvingly and it doesn’t take a minute before he declares, “I’ll take it.” And this snaps Kaveh out of his reverie.

“What?” He moves beside him and

gauges the look on the alpha’s face if he’s serious. “You’ve barely inspected this work! You can’t just decide like that!”

“Why not?” The earl earnestly questions, not understanding Kaveh’s reaction. “I like it. I think it is an exquisite art. That’s enough.”

“Exquisite?! Have you even checked the quality of the paint itself? If it’s made from cheap paint, the colors would sooner yellow or grow dull, and then you’d have to replace them!”

“Then I shall do that when the time comes.” The alpha answers easily then asks for the price, and

when Nilou gives him the tag, he declares that he’s double it. Kaveh’s eyes have flown wide and once again tries to reason with him.

“My lord! You’re not being smart with your money! I’ve just told you that it’s made with cheap paint and it’s not even primed.”

Alhaitham’s brows furrow at him and Kaveh has to pull back and clear his throat, realizing he may have been acting a too suspiciously against it. “I just don’t want you to waste mora.”

“I’m hardly wasting mora.” The alpha answers. “I’m not spending extra simply because I find

this work beautiful. I also do consider the artist’s time, efforts, and of course the skills they’ve honed for, probably years, to even reach this level of talent.”

When Alhaitham says it like that, what’s Kaveh to do? He had to look away and hide his face, certainly flushed by

how touched he feels at Alhaitham’s words but no less guilty at making the man pay more for a painting he’s done using paints of inferior quality. He could only hope that they’d last long, given the proper care and placed in the right environment.

Nilou, who’s been watching

the pair silently, finally speaks her mind to ease both their worries.

“If it would give you peace, my lords, then you should know that the profit from this painting shall be donated to an orphanage, as requested by its artist.”

Kaveh internally groans. How unfair of Nilou to

use his cause against him. But now that she’s mentioned it, he’s lost his will to dissuade Alhaitham from
paying double. So instead, he sends her a betrayed look before deciding to march off, pretending to show interest in the other items she has for sale.

“I’ll be right there if you need me.” He says.

There’s a question at the tip of Alhaitham’s tongue at how odd it is that Kaveh’s strongly expressing how he’s against his purchase, but before anything comes out of his mouth, Nilou captures the alpha’s attention by starting a

conversation, one that she makes sure wouldn’t reach Kaveh’s ears.

“You were right about how much time and effort the artist has dedicated to complete this art.” She begins as she works on wrapping the painting again. Her eyes meet Alhaitham, a secretive look playing in them

and has the alpha putting all his focus to hear what else she has to say. “Dare I say, the artist has also spent tears making this, as it reminds him of his home.”

Him.

“He keeps things unsigned, not because he thinks his works are

undeserving, but because he believes it is he who is undeserving. So he wants his works to receive the praise they are entitled to without them being… tarnished, by his name.” Her eyes have turned solemn and her smile has gone smaller. “But every work is made with love, every

stroke a feeling, every dip of his brush an emotion that’s never expressed in fear of being burden to someone. So, my lord, I would hope for you to treat this work with care,” Nilou ties the last knot and places her hands on the now covered piece, gently in caress.

“and I would hope that you would treat its artist the same, if not more.”

She looks at Alhaitham in the eye and while the realization takes a moment, with Nilou smiling patiently at him, he understands. When he nods his head, a silent show of his sincerity and promise,

Nilou pushes the painting towards him.

“Thank you.” She says, just in time for Kaveh to finally wander back to Alhaitham’s side.

“Are you done yet?” The blond sounds rather impatient, eager to get out, but Alhaitham has other plans.

He smiles conspiringly at Nilou.

“On second thought, I’ll take them all.”

Nilou squeals in delight and Kaveh, poor Kaveh throws all caution out the window as he begins to lecture Alhaitham yet again for throwing his mora at whatever he fancies.

(interlude//

Alhaitham: Kaveh wait—“

Kaveh:)

“Did you know,” Ahaitham says as soon as Cyno steps in the room, eyes glued at a painting he’s hung in his study. “that Kaveh’s a skilled painter?”

“No.”

“Hm, yes, that did not show up in your reports.” It’s not really a complaint, just a mere observation. Cyno approaches and

joins Alhaitham in admiring the omega’s work. “I am fortunate that the shop owner’s trusted me with this information, else I wouldn’t have known. It was such a pleasant surprise.”

“I reckon you now feel more motivated for tonight.” The other alpha looks at him, amusement on his

face. Alhaitham nods, and the reminder that they’ve actually got places to be now that Cyno’s arrived to fetch him, he reluctantly takes his eyes off the painting to finish his own preparations.

“I admit I’m growing rather impatient.” He confesses as he fixes his cuffs.

“For a long time I’ve been an audience to Kaveh’s suffering whenever he’s with the damned fool, and today I’ve caught a glimpse of how he’s been forced into servitude by his own blood relatives.”

The image of the omega being treated like an object on display and the memory of him being treated like dirt deepens the frown on his face. There’s a shit in the air, a spark, and Cyno calls him out on it.

“Alhaitham,” His friend says, firm but voice leveled. It would not bode

well for any of them if he were to wrongfully attract the earl’s anger. “Save it for later.”

Alhaitham stares him down, takes a deep breath, and attempts to cool off. Cyno is right, and it would not be well for anyone if he were to arrive already aggressive and agitated. It’s

a formula for a riot, entering a room full of alphas in that state.

“My patience has really worn thin.” He sighs, shaking his head. “Perhaps I ought to have asked you to prepare a coffin as well.”

“I don’t think that decrepit deserves as much.” Cyno smirks. “I’d throw him

directly to the dirt where worms like him belong.”

Alhaitham grins approvingly as he finishes adjusting his cuffs. He then grabs his coat and cain by the table, ready to leave, excited to wreak havoc.

“Whatever happens, this ends tonight.” He says as he and Cyno make their way

to the alphas’ club, armed with sharp smiles that would haunt their enemies forever when morning comes.

If morning even comes for them.

“If it arrives to that, I’ll leave you to it.” Cyno tells him. “Tighnari hates the smell of blood and I hate sleeping on the chaise.”

Alhaitham could only roll his eyes. What a way to rub it in how he’s very much enjoying the life of a happily married and mated man.

He cannot wait for his turn to be this insufferable, and then Cyno would know just how much he’s endured over the past years of their friendship.

It’s very late in the night when these gatherings take place, an exclusive club for alphas in high society where they can go about bragging riches, fame, travels abroad, studies, and even omegas who they only see as another trophy to display as proof of their petty achievements.

Cyno hates these circles, Alhaitham more so. He’s only been to one and he’s regretted ever going after discovering how alphas in the groups loved to masquerade around as philosophers that make zero sense, only to revert to their shallow, perverted selves when the alcohol hits.

The journey to the establishment ends to soon. Alhaitham and Cyno surveys the building, observing the yellow lights that light up the hallway and the chandelier that hangs in the middle of the spiraling staircase.

“Well, there’s no need to delay the inevitable.” Cyno mutters

begrudgingly and Alhaitham couldn’t agree more. They climb the stairs, and the further they go up the louder the music and noise gets. There’s a chorus of boisterous laughter and clinking wine glasses. The smell of alcohol and cigars also becomes pungent, making his nose crinkle.

He frowns in disdain, especially when an already drunk alpha heaves at a nearby potted plant.

“If you had agreed to an ambush in the alleys instead, we wouldn’t be in this situation.” Cyno says, not really meaning it but Ahaitham can now see the appeal.

They finally spot the

door leading to where the main events of the club are in. Two male omegas open the door for them, bowing as they enter, and this doesn’t escape Alhaitham.

“I remember you saying that no omegas are allowed here.” He whispers to Cyno.

“By that, I meant mates and spouses.”

They spot another omega inside the room, carrying drinks around with one of the fakest smiles Alhaitham’s ever seen.

“This isn’t a prestigious club,.” He clenches his fist as the other grips his cain. “It’s a poor excuse of a prostitution house.”

“It’s only called a club

because rich, noble men are involved.” Cyno adds then points at someone. “There’s your best friend.”

When Alhaitham follows where he’s pointing, he spots the baron seated comfortably and surrounded by other alphas, engaged in a stupid discussion he’s sure. There’s a cigar on

his mouth, and a couple of half-filled glasses on the table. Just as soon as Alhaitham spots him, the man turns his head and also finds him and Cyno. Their presence lights up the baron’s features as he’s been waiting for them, had been very excited for the two to come. Having

two reputable alphas join his club would surely boost it and would encourage others to join. Unbeknownst to him, it’s these two guests who’d bring everything to end. But he doesn’t need to know that yet. For now, Alhaitham makes his way to where the baron’s secured them a spot as

Cyno ventures to the other parts of the room, trying to maximize his stay here by gaining other information that could prove useful in the future.

“Lord Alhaitham!” The old man takes his hand in a firm shake. “I was afraid you’d never come!”

“I promised.” He answers simply

but the other still laughs heartily at it, pleased. The others around them had also bowed their heads in greeting before they all settled down. Then, the baron beckons for a male omega to fill Alhaitham’s glass with wine, to which he couldn’t decline even if he wants to. It’s

too early to reveal his intentions, the room too aware and the baron still in the right mind to protect his secrets when need be. Thus, he accepts the drink and could only glare when the host of the night makes a show of sniffing the poor servant before he leaves.

Alhaitham doesn’t miss the way the omega has spilled some wine at the corners of his glass from shaking, and how he strides quickly away as soon as his job is done.

“We were talking about investments, my lord.” The baron explains as if he’d not just disrespected someone, picking

up from where their group left before his arrival. At this, he pretends to listen to their ideas and earnestly shoots down anything that doesn’t make sense or what he deems would be a waste. One would assume that he’ll sooner than later become a hated conversation partner and

kicked out the group, but his status and reputation have only become encouragements for the rest of the alphas to try and gain his approval. Even the baron who’s already red in the face, attempts to impress him but only utterly fails.

And so more wine is requested at their table

as the desperation also grows. When the alpha beside him calls for another bottle, he sees Cyno stop the omega with the wine to give quick instructions. Alhaitham watches the servant then as she comes to fill their glasses, and he notices how she pours double the amount on the

baron’s glass as instructed by Cyno. Alhaitham smirks; the poor guy must also be growing impatient for him to hasten getting the baron drunk. Said man has also stood near them, lounging by the pool table and pretending to watch the game.

True to Cyno’s strategic plan, it does

not take long until the baron’s words are slurring and that he’s obviously losing his temper with the way he slams his fist on the table when Alhaitham shuts down another one of his dumb ideas. Adding to the man’s foul mood, Alhaitham tries to give praise to the others at the

table, telling them how interesting their thoughts are even though they contain lots of faults, still. To be the only one who’s yet to receive such praise, the baron downs his glass in one go and angrily requests for another.

Alhaitham knows the man’s reached his limit when he

sits back with a click of his tongue. He shakes his head and points to each one of the alphas who are younger than him, Alhaitham included.

“Aye, what use even are those lots and mora when you’ve got no alpha child to keep them!” He exclaims. “Has anyone of you even gotten a

match yet? No? See, that’s what I’m saying.”

“Have you no child, sir?” A fellow to his right asks, as the way the barron says his sentiments gives the impression that he indeed has no heirs that fit his personal standards. But it would seem such is not the case, for thw old man

laughs out loud and shakes a finger.

“Of course I do! Popped a lot of alpha pups til’ the hag couldn’t anymore.” There’s no question as to who the old hag is. Alhaitham puts the glass against his lips, pretending to drink and hiding his grimace at how the baron’s pertained

to his poor neglected ex-wife. If there’s one thing that brings Alhaitham comfort, it’s that she’s taken the initiative to run and escape instead of remaining trapped or worse, thrown away when she’s no longer of use to the man.

Cyno’s visited her during his investigations.

“Beta heirs are not as influential, easily forgotten. Do you see any betas around us now? No!” The baron continues. “And omegas? You might as well just sell your property than leave it with them! At the very least, you’d be getting back something of equal worth.”

His words come out as wisdom from an old, experienced man that the other young alphas seem to truly believe in. If this is really the kind of bumbling fools that people listen to, no wonder these idiots spread like a plague.

The baron takes delight in how he’s now captured

the group’s interest, always wanting to be the center of attention. He crosses his legs and huffs from his cigar, a boost in his confidence as the others lean forward to anticipate his next words.

“But,” He dallies and looks them in the eyes, one by one. “It won’t hurt you to

look out for an omega heir.” He says it like a top secret. From the corner of his eyes, Alhaitham spots Cyno as his friend now stands within earshot. “On the contrary, they’d make the greatest investment if you still so insists on such things.”

“You speak from experience?” Alhaitham questions, unimpressed, and the frown on his face irks the baron as it means he’s yet to gain the earl’s favor. He stares at Alhaitham for a moment, unfriendly eyes red from the tobacco, and then chuckles.

“You have no idea.” He tells him

after, as if he’s gained the upperhand by withholding this tiny bit of information from Alhaitham. Unfortunately for him, Cyno’s quite good at his job and therefore he’s already aware of everything.

At the confused and curious looks exchanged by the other alphas in the group,

Alhaitham takes it upon himself to explain.

“As an alpha, marrying an omega heir makes their riches yours to claim as well, as mandated by the law.” The revelation surprised the baron, but Alhaitham’s not done yet. “Personally, I find it dishonorable, a cheat. But if the baron

thinks otherwise, seeing that it’s what he’s currently trying to do, then to each their own I suppose.”

As expected, the man fumes, scandalized at such accussations that really carry the truth. Alhaitham doesn’t know why he’s angry when he’s the one who’s boistered about hunting

down omega heirs for their benefit. Ah, perhaps it is shameful when exposed by someone else as it gives off a completely different impression than those words come
proudly out of his own mouth.

“You accuse me of being a disgrace?” He yells at Alhaitham, standing abruptly

that the chair almost flies off if not for its weight. “What proof do you even have?”

Without missing a beat, Alhaitham stands up, towers over him.

“Isn’t that why you are to marry the blond omega?!”

Discovering the truth about Kaveh has been an unexpected ride. At first, Alhaitham had only meant to ascertain if Kaveh had not simply been playing with him when he said he was but a servant. Out of concern, he additionally had asked Cyno to find dirt on the baron and see if

there is any way to free the omega from his forced engagement. There’s bound to be secrets to be unearthed, but Alhaitham did not expect the situation to be this bad, for Kaveh to have been wronged so at this level that every fiber of his being has been poised
to be taken

advantage of.

As the sole survivor of an attack in his childhood, he’s unquestioningly inherited everything that his viscount father and artist mother’s left behind. However, how could a mere child know any of this, especially when he’s forgotten some critical details in

his past. But Alhaitham had known, the way he speaks and moves, are products of early childhood training received by any boy and girl born in a noble household, one that the body’s been used to it can’t be easily shaken away just as how it can’t simply be learned and absorbed

from mere observation. Alhaitham was right; Kaveh was no servant. He was also not sold like livestock but rather, he’s being theived, for his aunt has no right to access what he’s parents has left Kaveh behind and only his future spouse could share in his riches. All of this,

the forced bethrotal that was treated in secrecy for fear of people like Alhaitham discovering the truth behind it, is a ploy to covet what belongs to the omega.

Alhaitham had been livid. Is still is, and it is taking everything in his power not to pounce on the old alpha

in front of him, who is suddenly laughing after Alhaitham’s words sink in.

“Ha! I knew it! So this is what it’s about!” The old fool snickers. “Don’t look at me like that! What? Did you reall think I wouldn’t have noticed, that you have shown interest in my omega?”

“Kaveh is not yours.”

“You even call him by his name!” The baron claps his hands as if Alhaitham has entertained so splendidly. They’ve attracted the attention of the entire place, and the baron looks giddy to once again be at the center of it even if he’s confessing his crimes.

“You are so very obvious, Earl. I did not mind you asking for my omega’s name out of the blue, for that boy really is a beauty, a true sight for sore eyes. Many have asked where I got him so it’s not really an oddity for you be curious.” The baron surveys the room, making sure

that all eyes are on him, cursed narcissm. “But to my surprise, you continue to pursue him! I know I didn’t send that dress he’s worn during the ball in your mansion, and I am not as ignorant not to notice how the colors make him fit right in your family as if he belongs there.”

“My mistake,” The baron continues. “Is to think nothing of it but just some lovesick efforts, a product of simple admiration for a lovely creature. But you have proven me wrong tonight! For you to know of such things, you’ve done your research well! You and I, we are the same—“

Alhaitham cuts him, not with his own words, but with a fist to his face. His family ring embeds and cuts through the earl’s patchy skin, and red lines the imbecile’s cheek as he stumbles down the carpet.

“We are not!”

The air has grown heavier.

His anger thickens his scent and it warns of danger that the alphas in their group have backed away, not a hand extended to the baron to help. However, no one moves from where they watched things unfold, curious about where this is headed.

The man tries to stand but a heel

collides with his nose. He bleeds
more, this time, and Cyno thinks he’s right about it being a bloody night so he stays where he is unless his help is direly needed.

“You should choose your words carefully from here,” Alhaitham nudges the man with his foot. “Ah, but can you

still speak?”

There’s a groan, and through his messed up hair that now hovers above his eyes, the baron still attempts a glare and Alhaitham clicks his tongue.

(interlude// alhaitham):

“The wedding is off.”

A declaration. Looking at Alhaitham, and how the baron pathetically crawls away on his back, challenging such thing would be signing up for a death sentence. Still, the thought of losing the riches that’s almost within his reach prevents the old alpha from

surrendering, even in his sorry state. Seeing this reluctance, Alhaitham slams a foot against the table, trapping the baron against it before he tries to stand and run. There’s a pathetic whimper as the old man protectively covers his nose in case a foot lands on his face again

“You were right about one thing; I did my research and I did it well,” Alhaitham repeats. From amongst the crowd, Cyno mutters something about giving credit where it’s due as he checks on his fingernails. “Some of it about Kaveh, most of it about you.”

He lifts the baron’s chin

with the end of his cain, forcing him to meet his eyes. “All about the dirt under your fingernails, the skeletons in your closet, every single second you’ve sinned, every atrocity that could put you behind bars, I know all of them.”

He makes a show of counting the other alpha’s

crime in his gloved fingers, listing them down for everyone to hear. The gasps and murmurs are satisfying, but the comical
way the man’s eyes widen a fraction with every exposed secret is even more delightful. In the end, Alhaitham hums as if considering something.

“But alas, I’m no peeler, nor a citizen concerned enough to file all these reports, a hassle I do not have the patience for.” It’s a ray of hope, the way Alhaitham frames it, that it’s not much late for the thief at his mercy to cooperate with his whims. “All I’m saying

is that there is no wedding.”

It takes a beat before the baron finally nods and Alhaitham smiles, still very sinister as he raises a hand that has the other flinching, expecting another blow. But all he does is pat the quivering man’s shoulder, removing imaginary dust away.

Alhaitham even extends his kindness to fix the man’s crooked collar of his coat. There’s an eerie silence in the room as he does these ministrations as his scent is yet to dissipate and the wild look in his eyes remain. When Alhaitham straightens up, the other alphas in the room

averts their eyes and involuntarily takes a step back, an effort to be as far away as possible from the alpha who’s temper is ticking like a bomb.

“It would seem that the baron’s back to being an eligible bachelor tonight.” He announces. “If you have aunties who are as

fiendish as our good friend here, perhaps they’d be perfectly matched? Do send your recommendations his way for even the vilest creatures are loath to die alone.”

Alhaitham turns for the last time at the man on his feet, right at the moment where a brave young alpha’s trying to

help the baron up. But the very second the earl turns to admire the mess he’s made of the old worm, said young alpha scampers away as if she’s burned her hands. He lets the seconds drag, building more tension than necessary as if another outburst is about to take place.

The Alhaitham simply tips his head as if in greeting and begins to walk away, the crowd parting hastily as he goes. He passes by Cyno, the both of them exchanging a glance and a grin before Alhaitham disappeares entirely out the door.

It takes a while before the room comes to

life again, with vigorous chatter and movement after the scandal they’ve witnessed. Without Alhaitham, there are those who now come to the baron’s aid but the man shoos them away, wanting to keep what’s left of his tampered pride. Unfortunately for him, none of his false honor

will ever be salvaged as Cyno stands before him.

“He may not be concerned enough to have you arrested, but I am.” He declares. The noise dies down once again, all eager to witness how low the baron could still be dragged. It is also in this moment that most finally recognizes

Cyno, and a new fear washes over everyone. Some have started to inch their way out the doors, only for an armed group in uniform to bust through it.

“As chief constable, I hereby order your arrest.”

The authorities grab the baron as soon as Cyno gives them the signal. There’s

a lot of struggling, glasses and bottles shattering on the ground as the baron flails and hits the tables
and trays on his way out. For someone with a bloody nose and fragile aging bones, he’s got a lot of energy that Cyno would’ve admired it if he were a better man.

“This is unjust! You do not have proof!” The criminal wails desperately.“Surely, you can’t just blindly believe what that man just claimed! He’s even assaulted me!”

“Do you really believe that’s all there is to it, some threatening words and a display of strength?” Cyno sighs.

“We have proof of your misdeeds,
for I was the one who’s done most of the investigation on his behalf.” He could see the hope now slowly dying in those old eyes. “You were never going to leave this place a free man, and the earl’s made sure of that.”

He signals for the man to be

taken away. The flailing has weakened and a trail of no’s are all that’s left in his wake. Cyno gives the rest of the alphas in this sham of a club a warning look to make sure they would commit tonight’s fanfare to memory and that they would do well to avoid the same mistakes.

The incident tonight proved to be a successful endeavor, even with how rushed the planning was, even if he had to bribe Tighnari with the rarest, most expensive flora for taking Cyno away most of the time. But as much as he’s achieved his goal for the evening, he finds that he’s

yet to calm down from what has happened. The baron’s unremorseful face flashes in his head, of how the fiend doesn’t feel even an ounce of regret, of how he’s even bragged about his cruel plan. It makes Alhaitham think of a future where he’s too late, or one where his fate has

never intersected with Kaveh at all. It haunts him, the image of Kaveh being buried alive in the sins of others, of his already clipped wings being burned down to their very roots until the pain has seeped deep into his bones. Alhaitham’s knuckles have gone white from where he’s

clutching his cane. He glances on the barely noticeable stains that dirty its tip, and finds no satisfaction from it. His feral mind craves for something more violent, unnecessary but fulfilling.

Alhaitham wants to see Kaveh.

In the dead of the night, he knows that it would be impossible, but he is quick to give an order to take the longer route and pass by the omega’s residence as soon as his longing surfaces past the lingering bloodlust. And just as he’s expected, the mansion that has been keeping

Kaveh prisoner is just as dead as the rest of the world, curtains shut and rooms void of light, of life. Alhaitham contents himself with simply knowing that these cruel days for his omega are numbered, and that tomorrow brings a ray of hope–no, a promise, of better, happier days

ahead.

For Alhaitham, hopefully, those days are to be spent with him.

The image of Kaveh suffering had they met too late has now been replaced with ideas of market dates and painting sessions, of sharing fruit slices in a garden and reading books on the floors of a library.

It’s with these thoughts that Alhaitham cures his restlessness, heart calm enough for him to finally head home.

Unaware of the storm brewing. Unprepared for the sudden twist come morning.

He goes to sleep with thoughts of the next day already playing in his head. The alpha has

it all planned out, from beating the sun before it rises to taking Kaveh somewhere else for breakfast, because who knows just how little he’s being fed in that house. The omega would do well with more nourishment in his body and more color on his cheeks. While Alhaitham loves how

red the other becomes when flustered, it would put his heart at ease to know that the rosy skin is not just a byproduct of his teasing, but proof that he’s well taken care of and loved.

His aunt Faruzan finds him going about their house, already dressed and prepared to leave.

She rubs her eyes, sleep still clinging to them as she watches her nephew fix his collars and straighten his sleeves repeatedly. Alhaitham passes by her with a brief morning greeting, and that second is enough for her to pull herself away from sleep’s arms, wrinkling her nose as

she now observes Alhaitham more properly.

“You’re stinking the place.” Faruzan comments with a brow raised in question. “What has gotten you so excited this early?”

Alhaitham pauses and turns, a thoughtful expression on his face before shaking his head as if dismissing whatever

it is that’s on his mind.

“Apologies. It’s nothing.” Try as he might to reign his feelings in, there’s no muting his scent now. It is then that it clicks to Faruzan why the other alpha looks groomed to the nines, a nervous excitement enveloping him from his feet to his

fingertips, his scent just unforgivingly strong and present with the way it’s meant to entice whoever it is that’s caught Alhaitham’s eye.

“You’re making a morning call.” It’s more of a statement to herself than a show of how she’s figured him out. But when Alhaitham noticeably

falters in his actions, there is no need for any verbal confirmation. Still, Faruzan’s eyes widen in surprise and her mouth agape at the realization. “Pray tell, child, you’re not about to court a walking book are you?”

“He’s very much human.” Alhaitham answers as he checks his

pockets for anything important.

“And just who is this… very human person of yours?”

“In due time.” The alpha pulls on his sleeve for the last time. “Apologies for not joining you for breakfast, but I must be going.”

“Apology accepted only if you promise to invite and bring

this human person for breakfast the next time.” She compromises, and this earns her one of Alhaitham’s rare playful smiles. A good sign, really. Self-aware as he is, Alhaitham would agree.

The ride feels like ages, minutes seemingly turning into years, but just like everything

else that’s happened, Alhaitham gets there. It’s as quiet as always from the outside, the mansion, concealing the chaos that occurs daily within its walls. As Alhaitham hops out of the carriage and makes his way to the door, a simply bouquet in one hand, he hopes that it is

Yasmin once again who’s by the entrance to welcome him. They’ve barely exchanged words, but he knows that they share an understanding with regards to Kaveh’s well-being.

He knocks, the door opens, and it may not be Yasmin’s cheery disposition that greets him but Alhaitham

doesn’t feel all too well about the solemn face this other maid’s wearing as she welcomes him in. The alpha steps inside, slightly unsettled, and the feeling spikes when he discovers that his visit has been anticipated. For there stands Kaveh’s aunt before him, and her daughters

at distance, peeking from another room.

“You’ve come for Kaveh?” She beats him to disturbing the eerie silence of the place. Alhaitham levels her a look, and even if her confidence falters at the alpha’s disapproving gaze, she conceals it.

“Yes–”

“Well, you are too late,”

She forces out her voice, intent to risk the alpha’s anger. The maid that’s opened the door for him scurries off in fear, a sound decision for Alhaitham almost turns wild when he hears, “for I’ve sent him away, and he is not here.”

(interlude// alhaitham preparing to visit kaveh):

There isn’t much change in Alhaitham’s face as he hears the news, for the man has never been that generous with his smiles, yet the lady of the house still finds herself weak in the knees as he stands there, quietly staring at her dead in the eyes. She’s expected a lashing, of an

alpha going feral and violent, scratching the walls and thrashing every piece of furniture within reach. But Alhaitham closes his eyes instead, tilts his head back, and breathes in deep like he’s mustering all the patience in the world at that very moment. A sigh escapes his lips

after as he tosses the flowers aside with no care where it lands, and he puts his hands on hips. It is then that she would realize that perhaps, this quiet anger is more fearsome than any violent lashing she’s prepared herself for.

“The worst thing you could do right now is to lie and keep him from me.” He says evenly. It is hardly a warning nor a threat, but a guarantee that further falsities would not bode well for anyone in that house. She takes a step back but Alhaitham knows, from the way she moves

stiffly and how she tries to keep her chin high, that she plans to stick to her lies.

“Have you gone deaf? I said I sent him away, that good-for-nothing child!” If she hadn’t been panicking, she would’ve withheld the insults at the very least, but all she does is fuel

Alhaitham’s anger. And with every second she’s wasting with her excuses, the alpha grows more and more tempted to let his fury settle things.

“Then tell me why his scent lingers.” He counters and moves further inside the house, slowly, threateningly. She matches his steps as she

backs away. If there’s one admirable thing about the lady in this entire situation, whether from pride, stubbornness, or stupidity, she continues to brave Alhaitham’s ire, testing his patience and playing with fire that’s sure to scorch her until not even her ashes are left.

“That’s precisely why!” Her outburst echoes in the hallways. “That ingrate dares to sully this house with his whore scent! I bet he’s done this on purpose.” An accusation spills from her tongue, and it is this that reminds her of the many reasons why she’s hated her nephew for

years, gives her the courage to go on a litany of justifications for kicking Kaveh out as she stubbornly claims.

“Tell me, is it not odd that for years since he’s presented, that child has never again gone into heat? A defect and a failure of an omega, he’s lucky I even found

someone who’s willing to wed him in spite of his flaws!” Her laugh is empty as she looks around, trying to find someone who would agree with her. Yet the maids have distanced themselves and her daughters in hiding. “Then another alpha looks his way and suddenly he acts like he’s

the most desirable thing on earth, leaving traces of his everywhere as it grows stronger day by day. And now, he’s bold enough to throw himself into heat? The absurdity of it all!”

As if things could not get any worse, the second Alhaitham registers what she has revealed, his

anger unhelpfully is worsened by an onset of panic.

“He’s in heat, and you sent him away?”

“Yes! Is that not what he wants, to be noticed and picked up by rich alphas?” She scoffs, as if she’s being unjustly blamed for something they should be grateful for.

“I’ve granted that wish! Thrown him out where everyone can–”

I’ve granted that wish! Thrown him out where everyone can flock to him like he wants them to, pounce on him like–”

Her next words are replaced with a wheeze as Alhaitham slams her against the wall and traps her there

with a firm grip around her throat.

“I’m giving you another chance. Do not lie to me.”
If anything, she should be the one who’s thankful to be granted this one last mercy. “Where is Kaveh?”

“Instead of wasting your time h-here,” She croaks, fingernails digging into Alhaitham’s

sleeve as she tries to speak, wasting her breath to taunt. “p-perhaps you should be looking for him now in another alpha’s bed–”

Alhaitham tightens his fingers and watches as the lady’s eyes roll up and go unfocused. There’s a cry from her daughters, but they are too stricken by

fear to rush to her aid.

But life really is unfair. Any second more and she could’ve breathed her last either from the lack of air or a crushed neck. But there’s a high-pitched scream that resounds from the hallways that grabs Alhaitham’s attention, saving her from this misery.

A voice that’s filled with desperation and panic that calls for him, hurried steps accompanying it.

“My lord!” The alpha turns and sees a figure who almost trips in her hurry. “My lord, you’re here! Oh gods!”

The newcomer also manages to wake the madam from where she’s almost greeted death as she spends her remaining energy to throw a glare at the maid, as if she still has the power to scare her despite being in someone else’s mercy.

Yasmin reaches Alhaitham and practically throws herself on his feet, her legs giving in conveniently as she also moves to beg in between her ragged breaths.

“Please help, my lord.” She heaves. “It’s Kaveh, he’s– he’s here. Please help him; you have to. Please.”

Alhaitham doesn’t need to be told twice. He drops the aunt and pulls Yasmin up, asking her to lead the way. The bruise on her cheek does not escape his eyes, but he will let himself be concerned about it much later as there are evidently more important matters at hand. The dread

grows the further they go into the house, descending a narrow staircase obscured by a wooden door with chipping paint. There’s another door at the very bottom where the lights from upstairs barely reach. It’s locked, and Yasmin starts to tear up again as she knocks on the door if

only to let Kaveh know that she’s here, she hasn’t left him, that help’s already here.

“She has the keys, but she won’t tell!” She tells Alhaitham, and he figures that even if he threatens the aunt’s life, they won’t be getting answers.

“Move.” He instructs her in a split second decision then kicks the door open.

It almost sends him into a frenzy when he doesn’t see Kaveh immediately once the door’s out of the way. The basement is void of light and the brightness from upstairs so far away that it barely casts

a shadow on Alhaitham’s figure. Yasmin stumbles behind him blessedly with a lamp from god knows where, a small flame quivering inside but it’s enough to see a deeper level of inferno Kaveh’s been thrown in.

“Kaveh!” Yasmin cries, eyes frantically searching in the darkness. Alhaitham takes the lamp from her and starts to move.

He follows Kaveh’s scent, worryingly faint and alarmingly acrid for someone who’s supposedly in heat.

At the sight of the omega’s unconscious figure at the far corner of the room, Alhaitham almost drops the lamp. He’s on his knees, Yasmin taking their only source of light and hovers it above the two as Alhaitham takes Kaveh in his arms and tries to wake him up.

“Kaveh,” It takes a lot of effort not to shout his name, remembering to be gentle despite the circumstances. He checks the blond’s pulse, weak but it’s there, and Alhaitham realizes that Kaveh’s skin feels too hot when he pat’s the man’s cheeks in a useless effort for him to

regain consciousness. His skin feels like a furnace; Kaveh’s more likely suffering from a deadly fever than a heat at this point.

“Fuck,” Alhaitham curses under his breath as he scoops Kaveh in his arms.

This isn’t how he imagined their first touch would be.

He wastes no time climbing up the stairs, intent to leave the house and bring Kaveh to safety, call for healers to make sure he’ll live another day. At this point, Alhaitham’s not sure how he’s going to navigate life again if those eyes he’s grown to love never opens. But

dwelling on those thoughts might make him do something irrational, make the wrong decisions, prioritize the wrong things such as inflicting the same pain on the people who’ve reduced Kaveh in this vegetable-like state.

The madam barely stands upright without the help of her

daughters on her sides. She sees Kaveh and Alhaitham sees renewed hatred spark in her eyes. He snarls at her before she could open that good-for-nothing mouth which surely would just be spitting the vilest nonsense he’ll just have the misfortune of hearing. It makes her flinch

and avert her gaze, but he does notice how that glare transfers from Kaveh to Yasmin, who’s still following Alhaitham, making sure that they’ll make it outside and that her friend’s finally free from this place.

She opens the door for them and then stops by the threshold, relief

painting her face as she stays content with watching Alhaitham take Kaveh away. But the receded sound of frantic footsteps behind him makes the alpha turn only to see Yasmin unmoving from the house’s entrance.

It should’ve been obvious but perhaps, it’s not so easy to spot

freedom before your very eyes when you’ve been chained up in one place for a long time. So Alhaitham, without stopping his approach towards the waiting carriage, calls for Yasmin.

“You're to come with us. Make haste."

It takes her by surprise but she’s quickly on her feet, following Alhaitham inside the carriage without ever glancing back at her friend’s aunt who looks like she is about to explode at the turn of events. None of them matters now, and they’re gone from their minds the second the

carriage moves, attention entirely on the unconscious blond.

The ride is spent with the alpha calling out Kaveh’s name softly as he constantly checks his pulse, awaiting any sign of movement. Yasmin does the same, saying the omega’s name, begging him to wake up as she wipes the

beads of sweat forming on Kaveh’s forehead with a handkerchief and using it to fan him after. When they finally arrive at Alhaitham’s residence, the peace and quiet that have always enveloped the place is broken by the shouts of the very man who demands them. The maids startle,

and Faruzan bursts out from her study upon hearing faint shouts through her thick doors, Alhaitham barking orders to prepare this and that.
He sees his aunt rushing to his side looking beyond confused at the commotion, but he appreciates how she doesn’t jump to asking questions

choosing instead to follow him quietly and asking the maids that pass her by. Alhaitham makes a beeline for his room, Faruzan rushing ahead of him with Yasmin to open the doors, noting how he is in a rush with no tolerance for any delays or interruptions.

Alhaitham lays Kaveh on his bed but it doesn’t quell any of his emotions. He’s barking out new orders as soon as the unresponsive omega is safely above the sheets. Yasmin taking the basin of water and clean cloth from one of the household maids, assigning herself the task to cool

Kaveh’s burning skin down.

“Please call for the doctor.” Alhaitham doesn’t look away from Kaveh but he trusts his aunt to understand and follow. “And… and Cyno. Please call for Cyno.”

The rest of the hour passes by with just him and Yasmin trying to prevent Kaveh from overheating. They try to make him drink, knowing how he’s severely dehydrated, with Alhaitham patiently holding the blond and pressing a small glass of water against his lips, hoping that the

little drops that make it past would be sufficient. Yasmin diligently wipes the water that spills from the corner of Kaveh’s mouth to prevent his clothes from being wet. The only time Alhaitham’s away from the omega’s side is when Yasmin has to change Kaveh’s constricting,

sweat-drenched clothes. He’s offered his own shirt and pants as they’re the most accessible and loose clothing.

He reluctantly peels himself away during these few minutes, stepping outside the door with his worried aunt. Gauging how stable his mind and emotions are, Faruzan

takes this chance to ask a few questions.

“Is he the human person you went for this morning?” She asks gently as she offers Alhaitham his own glass of water. He mutters a thanks and answers her with a single nod before downing his drink in one go.

“His supposed family imprisoned him when they knew of his heat.” Alhaitham explains and hearing the truth in his words pains him. The way Faruzan looks at him in shock is very telling of how cruel it is, and he could only imagine how she’ll react when she hears the rest of the

story. But perhaps that is better told later, when Alhaitham feels calmer and reassured that Kaveh is going to get better. “The doctors? Cyno?”

“I’ve sent for a carriage for each of them so it would be faster.”

“Thank you.” His voice almost cracks but he repeats his words of

gratitude nonetheless as Faruzan takes the empty glass from his hand. Right at that moment, Yasmin peeks from the door and nods at Alhaitham, telling him he can now return by Kaveh’s side as they wait for the doctors to come.

(interlude)

Kaveh, the doctor explains, has dropped. It’s rare, he says, something that only happens when omegas are pushed to their limits and their body closes off entirely as a last resort to protect itself. After all, omegas are at their most vulnerable during their heats.

“But as I have said, it’s the body’s last resort. The events that could have triggered it must be traumatizing.” The doctor turns to Alhaitham. “I do not mean to pry, but if you have knowledge about what the patient has gone through, we might be able to at least gauge how deep he

has succumbed and amply prepare, for it could take days to weeks before he regains consciousness. The worst case is…”

He does not need to continue, because everyone knows what he’s going to say next. The worst case is for Kaveh to never wake, but Alhaitham immediately dismisses

this possibility as he recalls to the doctor the situation he’s found Kaveh in. It’s not a lot of information, but Doctor Zakariya still grows more and more solemn.

“His aunt has also mentioned something, and it bothers me. I do not know if this is the truth or how accurate it

is but,” Alhaitham takes a breath and looks at the doctor to see how he will react, determine how serious the case is. “she mentioned how Kaveh’s never had a heat again since he’s presented.”

Zakariya valiantly keeps a straight face, but the alpha does not miss how his breath

hitches and how those eyes fly back quickly to Kaveh.

“I-it is true, my lord.” Yasmin, who has been fidgeting at the foot of the bed, pipes in. “I know of everything.” She looks at Alhaitham, more to see if he would be alright hearing these things than a permission if she could

continue. When he receives a nod, she turns to Zakariya to explain what contributed to Kaveh’s state.

She does not need to say much. Revealing that Kaveh’s suffered through his first ever heat in the same place he’s been locked in, where Alhaitham’s found him, is enough to know

why the omega’s dropped. His mind and body has tried its best to prevent their owner from being subjected to the same torture, from messing up his system to never go into heat again, to dropping when Kaveh finds itself in the same situation.

“However, this also tells us one thing.” Zakariya has a thoughtful look on his face. “For him to have never gone through his heats all these years, something must have certainly happened for his body and mind to have felt safe enough to allow it.”

Yasmin’s head whips so, so fast towards Alhaitham that it startles the alpha, eventually sending him into a flustered state, faking to cough into his hand, the second he realizes what she’s implying.

Gods, she’s not even ‘implying’ anything. The way she looks at Alhaitham is as good as pointing a finger directly at him and saying, ‘yes, that man. That man happened.’

He does not know how exactly to react but he endeavors to keep a straight face.

That the doors to his bedroom have been kept open doesn’t help his situation, for his aunt and their visitors are able to hear and see everything. Cyno and his mate, Tighnari, have arrived minutes after the doctor has and Alhaitham’s yet to greet them. They stayed outside,

following Faruzan’s warning. There’s not a lot of people that Alhaitham’s permitted to let in, only a few omega servants and Yasmin, and himself. Others are given a death stare, a low warning growl reverberating from the owner of the room that even Faruzan does not dare challenge

it. Whether Alhatiham’s aware of this or not hardly matters. It is common knowledge that one does not simply enter another lion’s den, especially when its partner is in it.

The distance does deter Faruzan from giving her nephew a pointed look.

“How long has he been courting this young man?” She elbows Cyno.

“A while.”

“Huh.” She clicks her tongue. That sneaky bastard, to have kept his activities a secret from her all this time.

At the very least, this knowledge is able to alleviate some of the built up tension, and

it helps that the doctor looks relieved upon hearing this. They would not have to go through lengths to replicate any setting or scenario that has managed to make the patient let his guard down, for the alpha’s presence would be enough.

“Ultimately, it would be up to this young

lord when he decides to wake. No medicine would be able to. However,” Zakariya turns to Alhaitham. “If he has indeed found comfort in you, then your presence, earl, is what we’ll need to coax him out of his slumber. Until his body feels safe enough to wake him, the best we can do

is to provide him nourishment and keep him healthy.”

Zakariya proceeds to list down some herbs that they could steep in the water that give Kaveh, as well as light recipes for soup that the unconscious man can easily take in his state. As he does, he addresses Alhaitham again as

he sees the alpha wipe the sweat from Kaveh’s forehead.

“My lord, when all is done and prepared, I would have to trouble you with sharing the bed with him,” Then, he adds for he cannot help it, “although I suppose it wouldn't be any trouble at all.”

“Spare me, Zakariya.” Alhaitham glares but it fails to deliver its intended effect, for the doctor keeps the smile on his face as he hands the recipes to Yasmin who shares the same amused grin.

“I am simply doing my job, my lord. I must remind you that he is still, after all, in heat, and such contact would be needed.” The doctor replies. “But if you do see this an issue, this maid here seems quite close to the patie–”

“I never said I wouldn’t do it.” Perhaps, snapping out has not helped his case. Perhaps, he knows that it is a but a playful suggestion now that everything seems hopeful. Well, Alhaitham doesn’t care.

“We are just a little close anyway.” Yasmin mumbles and purses her lips

to subdue her giggle.

On a more serious note, Zakariya encourages them to continue with what they have been doing to keep Kaveh’s temperature at bay. He instructs when to give the supplemented drinks, when to feed the omega and how much should be given.

The doctor has also recommended some crushed mint and a cloth dipped in cold water, noticing the yellowing bruise on Yasmin’s cheek. Her hand flies to her face in surprise, suddenly remembering that she did not exactly escape unscathed, and thanks him shyly for the concern.

Before he leaves, Zakariya reassures that Kaveh is safe, for as long as his instructions are to be followed diligently. His absence, thereafter, sweeps the room in silence as Yasmin, Faruzan, and the others all wait for Alhaitham to give his orders. That they are also expecting

him to immediately follow the doctor’s advice goes unspoken, but it is evident in their eyes. The alpha could only take in so much staring before he’s straightening up his seat, folds his arms, and looks at his audience disbelievingly.

“I believe you must be brewing those herbs now, Yasmin.” He tells her and watches the maid scurry off with a nervous laugh. As for their audience, “Meet me in my study in five.”

Alhaitham pretends not to hear the disappointed sighs as they walk away, like they are children who

have been shooed back to their rooms. Although Faruzan does linger, no words are needed for him to know that she demands more details, as if Cyno has not tattled on him yet.

It is with great reluctance that he leaves Kaveh’s bedside, but not before finally allowing himself to

succumb to the day’s stress. He closes his doors, needing a few minutes to himself as he takes deep breaths in and out. Alhaitham finds his way back on the side of the mattress, his hand holding Kaveh’s. The omega still is too pale for his liking, but at least he does not look as

dead as he was hours ago. Silently, he prays for any movement, a twitch of a finger or a furrowed brow, anything that might indicate Kaveh’s close to surfacing from the abyss of his thoughts.

There’s a soft knock, and Yasmin meekly comes in when Alhaitham’s given her permission

to enter. The herbs will take a little while, she says, but another maid will bring it to her once it is done. Alhaitham nods at her report and proceeds to stand up, straightening the creases that has formed on shirt from his frantic movements.

“I shall meet with the others for a few minutes to discuss things.” He tells her, “Please look after him in the meantime, and do not hesitate to call for me if anything happens.”

“Certainly, my lord.”

He gives quick instructions to another maid that he passes by, asking her to

draw him a bath, before he enters his study where he’s asked everyone to gather. They all turn to him the moment he steps inside. He admits that he’s expected some playfulness and he has decided that he’ll allow it, if only to let them finally feel relaxed after everything.

But they all wear solemn looks when he enters, Faruzan mumbling under her breath and Tighnari looking devastated still despite already knowing bits and pieces from Cyno beforehand.

“I have informed them about our activities the past weeks.” Cyno helpfully states, saving

Alhaitham from recounting the events and allowing him to jump straight to business. He retrieves a couple of documents from his desk drawer, and hands them to his aunt.

“These are all about Kaveh’s estate. I hoped that you would know what to do with these. His parents did not

leave a will, probably never expecting that they would meet their demise so early.” He explains, “While the law states that Kaveh is to naturally inherit the estate, we would want an official document that secures this. We do not want a repeat of these events.”

“I hope this isn’t too much trouble.” Alhaitham adds as Faruzan inspects the contents, a crease already forming on her forehead.

“No trouble at all,” She answers. “I merely wish that the circumstances were better. The things that the chief has shared are no joyful news, but ah,

if there’s one thing that amuses me is the amount of effort you have put into this.” When Alhaitham frowns, she clicks her tongue and playfully hits his arm with the papers in her hand. “Do not look at me like that, child. It is a fact that you’ve never interested yourself in

other people’s affairs. If anything, I am elated that you’ve finally found someone worth your time, lovesick as you are. Now, I can rest assured you wouldn’t die alone and get buried with your books!”

It’s another needless lecture with a mix of teasing that awaits him if he

entertains his Aunt Faruzan any further. So he turns to Cyno and Tighnari, a hand running tiredly through his hair and messing them even more. Particularly to Cyno, he says, “The madam has to go.”

“When you say these things, Alhaitham, you must be clear whether you mean dead or

alive.” Cyno replies with not a hint of a jesting in his tone, but the way Tighnari says and pinches the alpha’s arm implies that murder is out. A shame, Alhaitham thinks as he has seriously started to consider it, toyed with the idea on his head, but then again he supposes that

even with how much he’s endured over the years, Kaveh would not like to wake up to news of his aunt being sent to the afterlife, and by Alhaitham no less.

“Perhaps next time.” He answers still, content with just the idea of it. And Cyno nods his head in agreement.

“Perhaps next time.” The other repeats. It is then that the earl turns to Tighnari who shakes his head disappointingly at them, as if still unused to their antics. But even with how tries to ride in with their jokes, the distress the other omega feels is evident to Alhaitham even

with the scent blockers Tighnari’s religiously put on himself in an effort to lessen the impact of the mixing anguished scents he’s had the foresight to consider, knowing the kind of situation they will walk into.

“It better be.” Tighnari sighs. “Because calling for my mate

again would entail that something worse has to have happened, and I cannot imagine anything worse than this. I expected a case, an arrest. I did not expect to see another omega’s suffering.” Cyno holds Tighnari’s hand, which has curled on his knees from the agitation he must have

been feeling. The omega visibly calms at the touch, enough to continue. “I apologize. I just… the possibility of a drop has never occurred to me and it is simply frightening to think it’s something that could really happen to our type at all.”

“I am sorry. I didn't mean to expose you in such depressing matters.” Alhaitham says but Tighnari waves a hand as if there is nothing he should be sorry for.

“Of no consequence. I am now glad I came with Cyno.” Before Alhaitham could ask, Tighnari stands up and continues,

“I’m no doctor, but my profession shall allow me to help in brewing those supplements that–ah, what was his name–Kaveh, needs to take. And if you’ll allow it, I can also help in his care together with that maid of his.”

“Are you certain?”

“Of course. You must give me something to do if you are to monopolize my alpha’s time.” Tighnari says matter of fact. Cyno preens on the couch but they both pointedly ignore him. “If there’s nothing else, I’ll be heading to the kitchens so you can continue your non-murder plans.”

“Doesn’t his profession involve poisons?” Faruzan comments without looking up from the documents as soon as Tighnari disappears out the door. The other two alphas have almost forgotten that she is still with them.

“It is also part of his work to study remedies and antidotes for

“Doesn’t his profession involve poisons?” Faruzan comments without looking up from the documents as soon as Tighnari disappears out the door. The other two alphas have almost forgotten that she is still with them.

“It is also part of his work to study remedies and antidotes for

those poisons, madam.” Cyno defends and she merely hums at this, already losing interest.

There isn’t a lot of planning to do, truthfully, as Alhaitham leaves it all to Cyno, letting his friend decide how to settle things. He is sure that the jailed baron would enthusiastically

reveal all of Kaveh’s aunt’s involvement for it would be unfair that he’s the only one to suffer in this downfall. After all, she is the mastermind of everything.

“I assumed you would be more excited to flee out of here, now that things are settled.” Faruzan says instead.

“Go ahead and cuddle with your omega, dear nephew. You can leave the rest to us. Oh, but perhaps you must bath first–-”

“I know that.” Alhaitham cuts and glares at Cyno, who looks bewildered at why he’s subjected to such a look when he’s kept his mouth shut.”

Frankly, it all becomes a blur to Alhaitham as he goes through the motions of bathing himself in the adjacent room and putting on loose clothes, one he would normally wear when he’s done for the day and the sun’s long departed. He finds himself in his sleeping clothes and it is

only past three in the afternoon. On normal days, this would have been a blessing, a rare opportunity to laze around so early.

He finds Tighnari and Yasmin chatting when he emerges, a steaming cup cradled gently in the omega’s grasp. When they spot him, Tighnari nods and he

makes his way to them, sitting on the side of the bed facing the two.

“We’re just waiting for the tea to cool, then you can give it to Kaveh.” His friend asks for the teaspoon in Yasmin’s hand and stirs before trying the mix himself. Tighnari’s whole face scrunches up from the

bitterness and Alhaitham could not help but unconsciously mirror that expression, now looking at the cup with distaste. Perhaps, it is good that Kaveh is asleep when he drinks that so he wouldn’t have to endure its taste.

“Just give it a few more minutes.” The cup is handed to him along with another spoon, a bit bigger so it could serve more. “Do you need my assistance?”

“It is fine,” He reassures and places the cup on his bedside table. “I can manage from here. The two of you ought to rest.

My aunt has surely had your rooms prepared.”

Tighnari stares at Alhaitham for a few seconds, assessing if the alpha would truly be fine on his own. He also wears a thoughtful look, in which he eventually shares before Alhaitham could question him.

“It has been bothering me but I think I know what seemed wrong,” At the alpha’s expression, Tighnari immediately waves his hand with a laugh. “Don’t be alarmed. I simply would like to recommend building a nest.”

The suggestion has Alhaitham blinking like he’s learned of a new word.

“A nest?” He repeats, worry in his face. “But I don’t know how–”

“It doesn’t have to be perfect, if that is what you’re worried about; you are to do it to make him feel your presence.” Tighnari looks around

his room. “Your clothes and more soft sheets would do. Perhaps, your used coats as long as they are not covered in dirt would also be perfect. You must simply surround him with them, and you must be in it.”

The alpha looks doubtful, a rare sight that has Tighnari chuckling.

“I know we omegas can be fussy with our nests, but trust me on this. Besides, I…”

What Tighnari almost says is that Kaveh might’ve never even had the chance to learn how to make one, and so any nest at this point, as long as it’s made by Alhaitham, would be a delight. But he

catches himself at the last minute, at the realization that perhaps this unfortunate fact is not something Alhaitham needs to hear. In the end, he dismisses his thoughts with a shake of his head and a gentle smile.

“A nest might help his recovery. There is no harm in trying.” Is what the omega says instead, and the promise of a swift recovery has Alhaitham nodding determinedly. It is with this that he and Yasmin leave the room.

If Kaveh were awake, Alhaitham is more than a hundred percent certain that the blond would take this opportunity to make fun of him, certainly thrilled at finding that one thing Alhaitham’s not so confident in. As soon as the door closes, the alpha paces and gathers the things

Tighnari’s asked him for.

He doesn’t know how long it takes him until he feels satisfied with his work, but it does give him comfort to surround Kaveh with his scent. This nest, it would seem, also does wonders to him as Alhaitham feels even calmer to see the omega encased with

his things, parts of him from his everyday life and routines. And the only thing that’s missing is him, his presence, an inclusion that he would hate to delay any further.

Alhaitham arranges himself at first on the small space by Kaveh’s side, rearranging the clothes and fabric

that have formed a small hill bunching up towards the edge of his bed. With gentle movements, he takes the omega in his arms, an action that still has his breath caught in his throat. He’s longed for this, but not in this way, and thus the joy and sorrow plays a conflicting song

in his heart as he better positions Kaveh to lay comfortably on his chest and tuck the man’s head under his chin. The thin blanket covers them halfway.

The minutes pass by slowly, and with every successful pass the clock’s hand makes, Alhaitham’s embrace grows tighter, more

confident, more protective, more secure. His fingers card through blond hair, undoing the tangles. His wrist rubs against the nape of Kaveh’s neck and the back of his ear.

“Kaveh,” Alhaitham calls, expecting a miracle, but only silence answers him. The alpha sighs and buries his

nose through Kaveh’s hair, breathing in. The omega’s scent is barely there, but Alhaitham still catches it, heady and alluring despite everything.

“Kaveh,” He tries again, “you promised you wouldn’t ignore me when I call for you. But look at you now."

There is no response, and it remains that way in the next hours that Alhaitham utters his name, a silent prayer with each attempt. Perhaps this is it, he would think always, as if the next calls are more special if not more desperate. But he continues and whiles away the time

like this until he joins Kaveh in his slumber. A shame that their dreams fail to intersect, for Alhaitham’s hoped that he’d have the chance to hear Kaveh’s voice again even if just in the dreamworld.

But in the dead of the night, a hand curls tight on Alhaitham’s shirt,

and in the morning when he discovers it, he thinks that would be enough for now and tightens his embrace with renewed hope.

(interlude)
Zakariya: something must have happened
Alhaitham:

It goes on like this for the next three days; little movements and reactions that has Alhaitham betraying his eight-hour sleep in favor of catching these moments. When he’s woken up to Kaveh’s fingers clinging tightly on his shirt, the first sign of responsiveness from the omega

since he’s almost driven Alhaitham crazy, the alpha would not even dare try to keep his tears a secret. The corners of his eyes have prickled at the discovery, and he has even tried to tug carefully at the part of his shirt that’s been held captive.

When, instead of the grip looseningit only grows firmer, Alhaitham sniffs and returns the gesture with an even tighter embrace.

“Kaveh?" He tries again, just as he’s been chanting the name until he’s fallen asleep the night before.

“Kaveh, are you there?” And when still, there’s no response and those eyes remain shut, Alhaitham nods and accepts it for now.

“It’s alright,” He says, “Take your time. I’m not going anywhere.”

Cyno delivers the news in the afternoon, that the arrest of Kaveh’s aunt has positively fueled the gossip mill with how she had struggled and yelled, proclaimed her innocence through vulgar words. Alhaitham’s right about the baron spilling all their secrets, intent to drag her

with him to the filth that they both deserve. Whatever becomes of her daughters, Alhaitham hardly cares and that was that.

Sometimes, he would read to Kaveh. Faruzan’s sent him some books to read, knowing that not even the end of the world would pull Alhaitham away and out of

his room. Yasmin brings them, along with the teas, soup, and food for the alpha. She would spend a minute trying to say something to Kaveh, but no sooner would she start tearing up so she’d excuse herself to get busy with other things, trying to take her mind away from the

clawing worry. When Alhaitham tells her that Kaveh’s been responsive, she instantly bursts into tears and ends up leaving again to cry somewhere else, even with the reassurance from the alpha that he doesn’t mind.

The third night, it is Alhaitham who finds himself almost fleeing in tears like Yasmin, except there is absolutely no way he is going to leave Kaveh’s side, especially now that the omega’s started purring. When Alhaitham’s first felt the soft vibrations from where Kaveh’s

pressed against him. He stops reading, waits for it to happen once more, making sure it is not merely his desperate mind playing tricks on him.

It does happen again, and Alhaitham’s heart feels like it’ll burst any second.

“Kaveh,” He calls, a routine by now that he’ll never

tire of. It cannot exactly be said that he’s responded to his name, but even so, when Kaveh’s arm winds around the alpha’s waist on its own after, Alhaitham starts to believe that perhaps, tomorrow, certainly tomorrow, he’ll finally see those eyes again.

One afternoon, Faruzan knocks on his door, waving the documents in her hand. “It’s done.” She informs him, and when Alhaitham makes a move to rise to retrieve the documents, she stops him. “There is no need to concern yourself with this right now. All you need to know is that

I have settled things. You can always check them later.” And with that, she shuts the door again and walks away. That is now one less thing for Alhaitham to worry about, attention a hundred percent dedicated to the man in his arms.

The passing days have also resulted in his

dreams growing more vividly, a side effect perhaps of his relentless, anxious thoughts and Kaveh’s scent that blessedly grows stronger as he becomes more animated. It is like there’s a theater in his head, reliving the moments he’s spent with Kaveh and continuing each scene the

way Alhaitham had wished their day turned out to be. Of their meeting in the garden being spent chatting until sunrise, and of the night of the ball where they are able to share a dance in their matching clothes.

Of their first touch happening so differently, that perhaps instead of Alhaitham carrying him away from the devil’s clutches he carries him somewhere else, in a field of flowers or towards a secluded beach where there’s only the two of them.

And that when Alhaitham touches Kaveh’s face, it is not with a prayer for him live another day but a with a vow to spend their lives together until those cheap paintings of his have yellowed and dulled.

He feels, more than sees, in his dream the feather-like touches from the

omega’s fingertips. So unbelievable real, a warm caress that travels from his forehead to his eyelids, down his nose and to the corner of his lips.

Maybe, he talks in his sleep. But is it even too surprising at this point, that even when not in the waking world Alhaitham

has started calling for him?

“Kaveh,” He says, and then he finds himself yearning for the touch that suddenly disappears. Panic seeps in his voice. “Kaveh?”

“I’m here.”

Ah, that is new. He has never heard the omega’s voice in his dreams save for the laughter that they would share in his ‘what-if’ reveries. Thus, he tries again, the omega’s name dropping from his lips despairingly. Alhaitham waits, counting how long until he receives

a response of any kind. Another word, or even just another touch.

When it comes, he delights in the heat of a palm against his cheek, and in the waking world his head tilts to the side as it chases for more.

And, haply, the stars have aligned to give him the best dream he’s ever had because he hears him again.

This time, a little closer.

“My lord?” Kaveh speaks, “Perhaps, I should’ve made you promise me as well–”

A little louder.

“ –that if I call for your name, won’t you come to me, too?”

A little more real.

“Alhaitham.”

His eyes snap open as he startles awake, and to the sight of his lovely omega looking back at him with worry.

Until the hand on his cheek starts to pull away, Alhaitham’s convinced that he is still dreaming. Kaveh’s eyes are searching, confused as he is yet to give any sort of reaction. It is only when the touch threatens to leave that Alhaitham’s hand flies to hold it in place, keep

that warm palm on his face. Still, he’s yet to find the right words to say as they’ve pooled on his tongue the past days, everything he means to tell Kaveh once he’s awake.

“I…” Kaveh relaxes his hold on Alhaitham as he continues to peer down at him, eyes half-lidded and breath

shallow, cheeks flushed and scent sickeningly sweet now that he has recovered. “I’ve taken liberties in calling you by your name, my lord. Seeing that I am in bed with you and that we’ve skipped quite some steps, perhaps that’s alright?

There’s a coyness in his tone that grips the alpha’s heart, melting away the doubts that allow him to finally smile back.

“If you could please repeat that again,” A joyful, playful request. “my name, that is.”

“Now it’s just embarrassing.” Kaveh pouts, but as the alpha raises a brow, waiting, the other’s lips part and says, quieter this time, “Alhaitham…”

Upon hearing his name, the affection surges and he’s pulling Kaveh in his arms in an instant, fully encasing the omega

in his embrace and enveloping him in his scent. The possessiveness and yearning within him rekindles their spark. It eludes Alhaitham how these reactions convey just how much he’s gone through, the agonizing pain of waiting with hope faltering day by day, but Kaveh feels it all.

“I’m sorry.” The omega says, nuzzling further within the other’s hold. When he first opened his eyes, it was odd that even when he found himself in a place that’s foreign to him, he felt safe. But the questions come to a halt at the sight of man underneath him, arms around his

waist like death shall come if he ever lets go. And it occurs to Kaveh how all of these efforts– the nest, the soft blankets, and Alhaitham’s presence– are all done for his sake for whatever could have happened. The memory of being thrown in the darkness is already fleeting.

“I didn’t mean to worry you. How long was I asleep?”

“Too long.”

“Oh,” Kaveh nibbles on his lip, another concern forming in his mind. “Is this…is this alright?”

There’s a million meanings Alhaitham could decipher from this question, for it could be their togetherness, the

touch and protection the alpha would beg him to accept, if Kaveh even deserves these things. The answer to all those questions is yes, and Alhaitham delivers this reassurance with a kiss on the other’s forehead.

“More than.” He says, not leaning away. “In fact, it would be perfect if we could just stay here like this forever. I am not ready to share your time with the others just yet.”

At the mention of others, Kaveh pulls up and looks at Alhaitham, a bit surprised to hear that tidbit of information.

“Others?”

“Yasmin came with us.” He tucks a strand of hair behind Kaveh’s ear. “My friends and family are here, too.

But nevermind them for now.” Alhaitham pulls the omega to him against, trapping him playfully in his arms as he pulls the sheets up their shoulders. “As I have said, I wish to monopolize you for myself.”

Kaveh’s scent thickens at his words, an enchanting change that Alhaitham relishes in. The blond may have buried his face in the crook of the earl’s neck to hide his embarrassment, and he is not sure that Kaveh is even aware how honest the rest of his body is,

but all the same it pleases the alpha immensely.

“Stay, Kaveh.”

It is almost a plea, and perhaps Alhaitham also does need this security, one that Kaveh is willing to give even if his words are soft and muffled from where he’s unconsciously rubbing his nose against the

tiny gap on Alhaitham’s shirt, in between its buttons. They ring crystal clear to the other’s ear.

“You say that as if there’s anyone else I’d rather be with, my lord.” A confession that makes Alhaitham’s breath hitch. “I am all yours.”

Something snaps in him, that tendril of control that keeps his feelings at bay, his desire waiting aside, and he lets them surge as he pulls Kaveh much closer until his lips meet his. The omega falls pliant, and Alhaitham barely allows them to part. Each gasp and each breath

reduced to stolen moments, while each kiss has become a lifeline and an anchor.

Content with this closeness and hot touches, they bask in each other’s existence for a long while, reluctantly parting when sleep inevitably comes knocking. But Alhaitham keeps Kaveh in his arms, and

Kaveh burrows his face at the side of the alpha’s neck, bodies flushed together as if bound by an unseen force. Then again, perhaps that is not so far from the truth.

And this time, when Alhaitham does let sleep come for him, it is to the certainty that when he opens his eyes come morning, he shall still be greeted by the sight of his other half, so perfect and so right, and in his embrace where he belongs.

(a/n: crazy long ride but we're almost done. the next update after this would most likely be the last. Just putting this here to say thank you sm for sticking around and everything else 💚)

(interlude//)
us when kaveh woke up: 😭😭