[ Give him a chance. Alhaitham doesn't know what's going on in Kaveh's mind, doesn't know how close he is to not being rejected. But he still feels the desperate need to convince Kaveh, to show him that they'd be good together. Of course, he doesn't know why he's convinced of that other than his instincts telling him that Kaveh is his perfect mate. He really wants to learn more about him, so he can point out why they'd be a good match beyond just the wolf in his head going crazy over him.
At the last bit, Alhaitham's mouth draws into a thin line because sure, he has had some interest from others. Omegas in particular fall for him easy and because he's so distant from others, some people see it as a challenge to get him to fall for them. It never works. ]
I can be discreet, professor. I can wear scent blockers. I can contact you only off campus. The fact that you're my professor is irrelevant to me, I would have wanted you regardless.
[ A sigh. ]
I'm not interested in others. I've never been. Please stop asking me to pursue someone else. I'll only do it if it's necessary to be with you. I know myself extremely well and I know that my attention isn't going to shift. A year from now. Five years from now. Fifty years from now. All I'm going to want is you.
[ It's absolutely wild that Kaveh is not turning him down immediately. He's a bit flustered at hearing the conviction in Alhaitham's voice, but surely this must just be... youthful foolishness? Kaveh falters, unsure of how to handle someone this stubborn. ]
Why is it you think I am the only one you could possibly be attracted to? You have no idea about my vices, or whether or not my habits would annoy you.
[ For instance, Kaveh likes wine a bit too much. He's overly critical of his own work and that of others, and he gets stuck in his own head far too often. None of these things come through in his lectures, which he keeps purely professional... but he is naturally as passionate about teaching as he is about other aspects of his life.
And then there's the debt. No, Alhaitham absolutely would turn tail and run if he knew all about the skeletons in Kaveh's closet. ]
[ Alhaitham doesn't know about any of that, no. But he wants to know. He wants to know everything there is to know about Kaveh, wants to be a suitable alpha for him and to woo him in whatever fashion he can. He's committed and he knows himself, he knows his interest won't shift.
But he also knows he sounds kind of insane, doesn't he? It's not unheard of — an alpha getting fixated on an omega and that's it, that's all they want, forever. But it is pretty rare. Even rarer if Alhaitham is actually a lone wolf like he's been accused of being. Yet, Alhaitham feels so sure of this, of himself, of their potential as mates. ]
Then give me a trial run. A few weeks, we can learn about each other, and if it feels like a good match, we can make it official. I don't know about your vices or habits, you're right, but doesn't that mean I can learn about them?
[ A thought hits him then and for the first time, his confidence wavers. He didn't even conceive of this before but now he's worried. ]
Unless... you don't like my scent? Or me. You don't smell like you're dating anyone, so I thought it'd be fine to court you but if you are...
[ He could be dating a beta. Or another omega? But Kaveh doesn't seem the type. Still, it's not like Alhaitham would know. Shit. ]
[ A trial run? It's a bad idea, a terrible idea, and Kaveh knows it. Maybe it's the odd combination of determination and desperation that makes him waver from his usual hard stance of giving attention to alphas he doesn't know. Alhaitham could be awful- No, that's not even the issue! Kaveh is his professor! ]
It's not your scent- Your scent is fine.
[ Kaveh is quick to assure him; Alhaitham's scent is distracting if he doesn't keep himself in check. ]
And I'm not dating anyone. I haven't in... how long? Anyway, it's been a while, not that that's any of your concern. Look, I absolutely can't do anything with you while you're in my class. You get that, right? If it were to come out, people would think you're getting preferential treatment, and I am not jeopardizing my career for you. I need this job, and I'm not getting fired and blacklisted because you like the way I smell.
[ His scent is fine. Does that mean Kaveh likes it? He still can't figure it out, but he's hoping it does. He knows he likes Kaveh's scent. Rather desperately too. He aches with the urge to pull Kaveh's hand close, to press his nose to his wrist and take in his scent. He wants it so bad.
But Kaveh is speaking rationally. He shouldn't jeopardize his career for Alhaitham. Alhaitham wouldn't want him to. It drives him insane, the idea of not being able to be with Kaveh now but — ]
I can wait.
[ He lifts a hand to drag it over his face and sits back in his seat, trying to shake off the desperation that was building in him at Kaveh's continued refusal. ]
I'll wait until I'm finished your class. In the meantime, can't we get to know each other as mentor and mentee? No one would look twice at us having lunch or dinner together in that case.
[ He knows one thing though: he can't just go cold turkey on Kaveh while he waits to finish his class. To see him just during classes and that's it, Alhaitham would shrivel up and die. ]
[ Kaveh hasn't let himself relax around Alhaitham's scent enough to know if he likes it, but he does know he doesn't hate it. It doesn't repulse him or anything like that, but he is also very aware of how much he's letting himself focus on it.
When Alhaitham says I can wait, Kaveh is slightly surprised. There is no bullheaded insistence of now, and the fact that he wants to get to know Kaveh better as mentor and mentee in the meantime settles Kaveh's concern, and shows him away out. Because if Alhaitham were to get to know him better, surely he would change his mind. A handsome young alpha like him? He doesn't need to tie himself to a mess like Kaveh.
So, he finds himself nodding. ]
I'll accept getting to know you as mentor and mentee. But in exchange, I want you to choose one artistic hobby to pursue while we get to know each other. If it's photography, fine. It can be whatever you like.
[ And Kaveh feels a bit satisfied with the idea that, even when Alhaitham realizes Kaveh is not worth the trouble, he'll have turned another student to appreciate the arts. ]
[ There's relief in Alhaitham at Kaveh's agreement because he doesn't see an ending to this where Alhaitham's feelings don't grow even stronger. In fact, at Kaveh's words, Alhaitham can't help the small smile that breaks out across his face as he looks back at Kaveh. ]
I wasn't pretending when I considered photography earlier. Though part of it was inspired by wanting to photograph you, if you'd let me.
[ But okay. Yeah. This is good. This is progress. He can live with this. ]
[ Wasn't pretending? Sure, they'll see about that. Kaveh has had plenty of guys suddenly take an interest in art and drop it entirely when he didn't agree to go out with them. Kaveh is not impressed with that kind of behavior. But... he's a little taken with Alhaitham's smile, admittedly. Looks aren't everything, but he certainly has that going for him. ]
You want to photograph me? Clothes on, I assume.
[ Kaveh pulls out his phone, though; he can't believe he's about to give a student his personal number. ]
[ Alhaitham wasn't even thinking about nude photography, so when Kaveh says that, there's a moment where Alhaitham's mind pictures Kaveh nude and his face goes carefully blank as he thinks about it.
That's.
That.
Hm.
If Kaveh is paying attention, he's notice the slight pinkness of Alhaitham's face and the way his scent turns a little warm and aroused at the thought. This is not his fault, alright? He was thinking perfectly innocent thoughts before Kaveh made the suggestion.
He clears his throat then. ]
Whatever you're most comfortable with.
[ Look, he's not going to turn down nude photography if it's on the table. But for now, he'll pull out his phone as well, taking the moment to exchange numbers with Kaveh. Kaveh will get a text then, a simple: ]
Hi. It's Alhaitham.
[ And Alhaitham looks back up, having got himself a bit more in control. ]
That photography book you mentioned, I can still borrow it, right?
[ It was an offhand remark; surely Alhaitham will not get any ideas from it. Kaveh's clothes will remain firmly on, though he's definitely done nude modeling for money before. ...ah. Alhaitham is thinking about it, Kaveh can tell. He scents it, and his own face grows slightly warm. Just an effect of noticing, of course! ]
Well, you're the photographer, so you'll have to decide the kind of shots that you want to take. Within reason.
[ Kaveh looks down as his phone buzzes. It feels like something he shouldn't be doing, but- It's purely platonic, is what he tells himself. Academic. He has no interest in tying himself to an alpha, especially not one who is his student. ]
Ah- Sure, I can bring it to class tomorrow, if you'd like.
[ Something about the way Alhaitham texts - proper grammar and punctuation - is endearing. ]
[ They can remain on. He won't press the issue. But it doesn't mean he isn't thinking about it, it doesn't mean he doesn't want it. Nude photographs, just for himself, just for his pleasure. Ugh, he has to stop thinking about it. ]
Within reason, of course.
[ He's not going to push!!!
Instead, he looks a little relieved at the answer to his question and nods. ]
Okay. [ . . . ] Are you free after class tomorrow? I'd like to take you for lunch.
[ Look, Kaveh can't police Alhaitham's thoughts... but he certainly will try, if given the slightest hint that is what he's thinking about.
The relief in the air is palpable, though, so Kaveh relaxes just the slightest bit. Maybe Alhaitham really will get the hint; maybe this is just a passing fancy, which wouldn't be the first time Kaveh has been in this position. It's just... usually less intense. He's never been given gifts over a period of time, and then confronted, and-
Well, Alhaitham is attractive. You can't fault a guy for looking. ]
It wouldn't be a date. You know that, right?
[ But yeah... he could make time. Kaveh is never really free; he's always doing something, whether it's teaching or working on his own art. ]
[ Alhaitham is happy to have Kaveh police him all he wants, if that means Alhaitham gets more time with Kaveh. He's happy with everything he gets with Kaveh and honestly, this is more than what he was expecting to be offered. He was almost certain Kaveh would shoot him down and kick him out if given the chance but... he didn't.
He didn't.
So, he nods his agreement to Kaveh's statement. ]
I just want to spend time with you, no matter what it is. That's acceptable, right?
[ He really wants to know what else is acceptable too. Can he continue giving Kaveh gifts? How much time in one day is he allowed to spend with Kaveh? Will Kaveh let him... hold his hand? ]
[ Kaveh sighs. It's a heavy exhale, and he keeps telling himself he really should be shutting this down entirely. Maybe Kaveh is... a little lonely. He's definitely not going to take Alhaitham up on anything romantic, but when has anyone piqued his interest like this? He can't remember; all the alphas who approach him are swaggering idiots who have no respect for Kaveh's personal preferences, and act as though he should fall at their feet simply because they're giving him the time of day.
Alhaitham has certainly approached this in a different manner. ]
You might change your mind after actually spending time with me. And again, this will have no bearing on your grades whatsoever. Not that you really need help with them, but you need serious work on your critiques and personal essays regarding the art pieces I assign.
[ More feeling, Alhaitham. It is about passion! So, anyone who has none of that is not a partner Kaveh can see himself with. ]
[ It's that lack of shutting him down that has Alhaitham gunning for more. Yeah, it probably would be wise to just say no to Alhaitham and draw a hard boundary, if Kaveh really didn't want Alhaitham to keep pursuing him. Because Alhaitham is very much going to see an inch and take a mile, wanting as much of Kaveh as he can get.
It's why his response is so sure when Kaveh says he'll change his mind, a definitive — ]
I won't.
[ But he does wrinkle his nose slightly at the comment about him needing to work on his critiques and personal essays. He knows the reason why Kaveh is asking him that, can see where he's lacking, but he just doesn't have the same passion for art that Kaveh does.
But he does have passion for Kaveh, so he'll work on it. He will. ]
... Fine. I'll try harder, if that'll make you happy.
[ ...this guy. This guy! Is he really this stubborn and confident? Kaveh feels like he's making a mistake, but at the same time, it's sort of intriguing. Why does he think Kaveh is the only person for him? They don't even know each other. Is it his scent? The way he looks? Kaveh wants to delve into this more, to try and figure it out - he is, at heart, a curious man - but he leaves it alone for now.
Instead, he smiles when Alhaitham agrees to try harder. Even if it's for a reason other than personal interest, Kaveh will take it for now. ]
If you have any questions, my office is always open. This time, try coming when I am here, rather than sneaking in.
[ The gifts. Kaveh hadn't touched them, but he's drinking the coffee, so that's a start. ]
[ Maybe it is his scent but isn't that enough? It feels like enough to Alhaitham. He doesn't think he'll ever feel like this about anyone else ever again. He can't imagine it — the thought physically pains him. No, he needs Kaveh and he'll do everything in his power to get him.
For instance. The coffee, he's drinking the coffee. Alhaitham is filled with the urge to give him more gifts, more things to take care of him. A blanket covered in his scent. Food cooked by Alhaitham. Whatever else will make Kaveh feel comforted and taken care of by an alpha, whatever he needs. ]
... Okay. As long as you'll have me.
[ Though it also feels like Kaveh is shooing him out. He doesn't want to go, doesn't like the idea of being away from Kaveh but... there's not much he can do if Kaveh wants him to leave. For a moment, he does look rather awkward as he's caught between the urge to stay and the more logical notion of leaving. ]
[ Alhaitham clearly does not understand; Kaveh is likely one of the most stubborn omegas he will ever meet, having spent year refusing to cave to anyone who showed him even the slightest hint of pity or patronizing intent. Maybe others can be won with gifts, or an arousing scent, but Kaveh has forced himself time and again to ignore it, so that now it's nearly second nature. It has nothing to do with Alhaitham. Rather, the fact that Kaveh has not flown into a tirade and tossed him right out is a good sign of... something.
But maybe there is a tiny part of him that wouldn't mind it. A partner, who liked him for himself, and not the fact that he is an attractive omega, or that he smells nice. Kaveh doesn't quite believe Alhaitham is really attracted to only him; he figures this will pass the moment he catches sight of someone more appealing, or when the gifts don't immediately draw Kaveh into his bed. But for now... this is fine.
Still, Alhaitham seems to want to linger. Kaveh purses his lips; there's something about him that is kind of cute. Charming. Ugh. ]
...You don't have to look at me like that. Do you want to say something? If you do, come out and say it.
[ Even though he ignores it, as much as Kaveh hates this, there is still the urge to soothe. ]
[ Alhaitham knows he has to leave. But his heart's not in it, doesn't want to move from this seat and leave Kaveh's side. In fact, everything about this conversation has made his feelings even stronger and when Kaveh asks him if he has something to say, that's the only thing he can think. So, he shares it, in his own way. ]
... I find you overwhelmingly endearing, Professor. You may think this conversation has scared me off but it's only bolstered my resolve to court you. There was a chance I'd come here and our personalities would be too polarizing for this to work but I don't think so anymore. I think we're compatible and I'd like to get to know you more.
[ He knows that might be a little much but, well. It's how he feels and Kaveh said to just say it, didn't he? He wonders if there's anything he could do that would make Kaveh dislike him. There's still that unknown quantity of all this that makes him wonder if there will be an action he takes, a thing he says, something that happens that makes Kaveh disregard him entirely and throw him out for good.
[ So matter of fact! Kaveh stares at him, though he really has no right to be annoyed when he'd been the one to demand Alhaitham say what was on his mind. This is becoming more dangerous by the moment, because the more stubborn Alhaitham is...
The more Kaveh's curiosity grows. And he knows it shouldn't, but he is. Fascinating? There's none of that stupid, fake-nice flattery that most alphas give him, complimenting his appearance and his scent and telling him how good he'd be as a mate, like Kaveh doesn't have his own life and goals he is working towards. It's just Alhaitham saying, very bluntly, that he thinks they are compatible, and staying determined to court Kaveh no matter how rude he is. Normally, that is a major turn-off, isn't it?
And yet, Alhaitham calls it endearing. ]
How, exactly, do you think we're compatible? I don't know anything about you, and you hardly know anything about me. Maybe I can't stand your habits, or maybe you can't stand mine. Maybe you hate the foods I'm best at cooking, or I hate the way you sleep. I've been around long enough to know that just because someone seems good to you, does not mean you are at all compatible.
[ Kaveh says it just as bluntly. He isn't saying that is the case, but... he's had enough bad dates. ]
On top of that, I would hate if you changed yourself to fit my preferences, so don't even think about it.
[ First, Alhaitham has to reply to the last bit and so he does, immediately. ]
Don't worry, I don't change myself for anyone.
[ He's long since held to his ways stubbornly, knows himself enough to know that he isn't exactly the most easy to get along with and that's why he has the reputation that he does. But still that doesn't mean there's no hope for the two of them. Alhaitham firmly believes there is. Because the compatibility doesn't just come from his scent alone but in this short conversation, Alhaitham has learned a lot about Kaveh. ]
I think we're compatible because the things you've expressed in this conversation have only made me more sure about you. You're driven and you won't let me affect your career, which I never would but some alphas don't respect an omega's choice of career and you seem the type not to tolerate that sort of behavior. It makes me like you more. You're opinionated and considerate, you've spent a lot of this conversation setting boundaries but also not wanting to hurt my feelings. You can, if you want. I can take it if there's really something about me that turns you off but... I'm getting the feeling that there isn't.
You're also fiercely independent, which I like too. I couldn't stand being with an omega who wasn't their own person. If we were to bond, I would want it to be because we both want it, and we think it would make us better as individuals to be together than apart. I don't know what type of alpha you're looking for but I imagine the typical swagger filled boneheads you might meet don't suit your preferences.
I'm not someone who wants an omega to take advantage of and dominate. You don't seem the type who would want an alpha to do that for you either. I want an omega I respect, who respects me back, and who will allow me to be there for them on their terms. I want an omega who is clear about what they want and will hold high standards for me to meet and make me work for their favor. Compatibility is just the first step. But from what I see from this conversation so far, I think we have it.
[ That was a lot of talking on Alhaitham's part and he doesn't typically like talking that much but he wanted to be clear about his wants and desires and what he sees here between them. So, afterwards, he goes quiet and just looks back at Kaveh with earnestness in his eyes. He wants Kaveh to see what he sees and even if it doesn't succeed today, hopefully this is a good start. ]
[ Oh. Kaveh is left open-mouthed and staring as Alhaitham really just lists off all the ways in which he thinks they are compatible. It's a lot to process at once, but Kaveh follows along as best as he can while still feeling slightly in shock at the utter confidence with which Alhaitham speaks.
And he cannot help the feeling of flattery, either, which his scent likely conveys. Alhaitham compliments him in ways others don't, and he is more than a little surprised that Alhaitham picked up all these things just from a brief conversation where Kaveh tried gently to turn him down, and the fact that Kaveh really isn't turned off by him. Rather the opposite, in fact, but it is Kaveh's stubbornness and some sense of morals that keeps him from going in right away.
It is the last part that really makes Alhaitham hard to ignore, though. This... is the type of relationship he wants. And that's the thing; Kaveh, for all the rejections he has doled out, is not opposed to a relationship. Maybe it's something he yearns for; he is a lonely man, but holds his independence higher than settling down with someone who would seek to train that out of him.
...gods, he's in trouble. ]
That is the most I've ever heard you talk in one go. Maybe if you turned some of that introspection on your art reviews, your observations would seem a little less stiff.
[ Kaveh clears his throat. ]
There's a new place close to campus that I've been meaning to try. Do you like Indian food?
[ In the end, Alhaitham is too happy at the slightly pleasant shift of Kaveh's scent to be too defensive over the comment about his art reviews. He's sniffing the air, catching Kaveh's scent and feeling like he's only just gotten a taste. He wants more, wants to bury his face in Kaveh's throat and breathe him in until he's satisfied, though he doubts he'll ever be.
This is going to be hard, he knows. To hold himself back, to not press Kaveh for more sooner than he is ready for. His whole body aches for even just the slightest touch from Kaveh and he already knows he's going to try to bury his nose in his own clothes when he goes home, desperate for some sort of rub off of Kaveh's scent. He's... he's really down bad for Kaveh, even if he's trying so hard to keep himself in check.
When Kaveh asks him if he likes Indian food, the implication that they would go to get the food together — Alhaitham isn't a very expressive individual but the way his body perks up a bit at that makes it seem like if he had a tail, it would be wagging. ]
I like Indian food. Are you... asking me to accompany you?
[ More! Time! With! Kaveh! That's all he wanted and now he's being given this gift. He's thrilled. ]
[ Even that small shift in his demeanor, Kaveh notices. It’s different from earlier, and it makes Kaveh’s face slightly warm, unused to this kind of attention or enthusiasm for his presence. Maybe he should second guess this, but there’s something about Alhaitham that draws Kaveh’s attention. He’s being a selfish asshole, for sure. ]
Just a casual thing. Not a date.
[ To make it clear!!! Kaveh is Alhaitham’s professor; nothing can happen. Nothing will happen, or that’s what he tells himself, even if there is undoubtedly something about Alhaitham that piques Kaveh’s interest, and his attraction.
Yes, maybe Alhaitham is Kaveh’s type. That doesn’t mean he intends to entertain this crush of his. ]
[ He knows it's not a date. He knows it's nothing more than just a professor and his student sharing a meal together. He knows that Kaveh is, if anything, pitying him in some regard.
That doesn't matter to him. It's still more time with Kaveh, more time to learn how he ticks and what Alhaitham can do in the future to make himself even more indispensable to Kaveh. He's ready for the long game of this. ]
Not a date, I understand.
[ Of course, he would want their first date to be a little more special than just Indian food, after all. ]
Should we get going now or is there more you have to do here before then?
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
no subject
At the last bit, Alhaitham's mouth draws into a thin line because sure, he has had some interest from others. Omegas in particular fall for him easy and because he's so distant from others, some people see it as a challenge to get him to fall for them. It never works. ]
I can be discreet, professor. I can wear scent blockers. I can contact you only off campus. The fact that you're my professor is irrelevant to me, I would have wanted you regardless.
[ A sigh. ]
I'm not interested in others. I've never been. Please stop asking me to pursue someone else. I'll only do it if it's necessary to be with you. I know myself extremely well and I know that my attention isn't going to shift. A year from now. Five years from now. Fifty years from now. All I'm going to want is you.
no subject
Why is it you think I am the only one you could possibly be attracted to? You have no idea about my vices, or whether or not my habits would annoy you.
[ For instance, Kaveh likes wine a bit too much. He's overly critical of his own work and that of others, and he gets stuck in his own head far too often. None of these things come through in his lectures, which he keeps purely professional... but he is naturally as passionate about teaching as he is about other aspects of his life.
And then there's the debt. No, Alhaitham absolutely would turn tail and run if he knew all about the skeletons in Kaveh's closet. ]
no subject
But he also knows he sounds kind of insane, doesn't he? It's not unheard of — an alpha getting fixated on an omega and that's it, that's all they want, forever. But it is pretty rare. Even rarer if Alhaitham is actually a lone wolf like he's been accused of being. Yet, Alhaitham feels so sure of this, of himself, of their potential as mates. ]
Then give me a trial run. A few weeks, we can learn about each other, and if it feels like a good match, we can make it official. I don't know about your vices or habits, you're right, but doesn't that mean I can learn about them?
[ A thought hits him then and for the first time, his confidence wavers. He didn't even conceive of this before but now he's worried. ]
Unless... you don't like my scent? Or me. You don't smell like you're dating anyone, so I thought it'd be fine to court you but if you are...
[ He could be dating a beta. Or another omega? But Kaveh doesn't seem the type. Still, it's not like Alhaitham would know. Shit. ]
no subject
It's not your scent- Your scent is fine.
[ Kaveh is quick to assure him; Alhaitham's scent is distracting if he doesn't keep himself in check. ]
And I'm not dating anyone. I haven't in... how long? Anyway, it's been a while, not that that's any of your concern. Look, I absolutely can't do anything with you while you're in my class. You get that, right? If it were to come out, people would think you're getting preferential treatment, and I am not jeopardizing my career for you. I need this job, and I'm not getting fired and blacklisted because you like the way I smell.
[ But... he's not... saying no. ]
no subject
But Kaveh is speaking rationally. He shouldn't jeopardize his career for Alhaitham. Alhaitham wouldn't want him to. It drives him insane, the idea of not being able to be with Kaveh now but — ]
I can wait.
[ He lifts a hand to drag it over his face and sits back in his seat, trying to shake off the desperation that was building in him at Kaveh's continued refusal. ]
I'll wait until I'm finished your class. In the meantime, can't we get to know each other as mentor and mentee? No one would look twice at us having lunch or dinner together in that case.
[ He knows one thing though: he can't just go cold turkey on Kaveh while he waits to finish his class. To see him just during classes and that's it, Alhaitham would shrivel up and die. ]
no subject
When Alhaitham says I can wait, Kaveh is slightly surprised. There is no bullheaded insistence of now, and the fact that he wants to get to know Kaveh better as mentor and mentee in the meantime settles Kaveh's concern, and shows him away out. Because if Alhaitham were to get to know him better, surely he would change his mind. A handsome young alpha like him? He doesn't need to tie himself to a mess like Kaveh.
So, he finds himself nodding. ]
I'll accept getting to know you as mentor and mentee. But in exchange, I want you to choose one artistic hobby to pursue while we get to know each other. If it's photography, fine. It can be whatever you like.
[ And Kaveh feels a bit satisfied with the idea that, even when Alhaitham realizes Kaveh is not worth the trouble, he'll have turned another student to appreciate the arts. ]
no subject
I wasn't pretending when I considered photography earlier. Though part of it was inspired by wanting to photograph you, if you'd let me.
[ But okay. Yeah. This is good. This is progress. He can live with this. ]
Do you want to exchange phone numbers?
no subject
You want to photograph me? Clothes on, I assume.
[ Kaveh pulls out his phone, though; he can't believe he's about to give a student his personal number. ]
no subject
That's.
That.
Hm.
If Kaveh is paying attention, he's notice the slight pinkness of Alhaitham's face and the way his scent turns a little warm and aroused at the thought. This is not his fault, alright? He was thinking perfectly innocent thoughts before Kaveh made the suggestion.
He clears his throat then. ]
Whatever you're most comfortable with.
[ Look, he's not going to turn down nude photography if it's on the table. But for now, he'll pull out his phone as well, taking the moment to exchange numbers with Kaveh. Kaveh will get a text then, a simple: ]
Hi. It's Alhaitham.
[ And Alhaitham looks back up, having got himself a bit more in control. ]
That photography book you mentioned, I can still borrow it, right?
no subject
Well, you're the photographer, so you'll have to decide the kind of shots that you want to take. Within reason.
[ Kaveh looks down as his phone buzzes. It feels like something he shouldn't be doing, but- It's purely platonic, is what he tells himself. Academic. He has no interest in tying himself to an alpha, especially not one who is his student. ]
Ah- Sure, I can bring it to class tomorrow, if you'd like.
[ Something about the way Alhaitham texts - proper grammar and punctuation - is endearing. ]
no subject
Within reason, of course.
[ He's not going to push!!!
Instead, he looks a little relieved at the answer to his question and nods. ]
Okay. [ . . . ] Are you free after class tomorrow? I'd like to take you for lunch.
[ Purely as a mentor/mentee, right!! ]
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The relief in the air is palpable, though, so Kaveh relaxes just the slightest bit. Maybe Alhaitham really will get the hint; maybe this is just a passing fancy, which wouldn't be the first time Kaveh has been in this position. It's just... usually less intense. He's never been given gifts over a period of time, and then confronted, and-
Well, Alhaitham is attractive. You can't fault a guy for looking. ]
It wouldn't be a date. You know that, right?
[ But yeah... he could make time. Kaveh is never really free; he's always doing something, whether it's teaching or working on his own art. ]
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He didn't.
So, he nods his agreement to Kaveh's statement. ]
I just want to spend time with you, no matter what it is. That's acceptable, right?
[ He really wants to know what else is acceptable too. Can he continue giving Kaveh gifts? How much time in one day is he allowed to spend with Kaveh? Will Kaveh let him... hold his hand? ]
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Alhaitham has certainly approached this in a different manner. ]
You might change your mind after actually spending time with me. And again, this will have no bearing on your grades whatsoever. Not that you really need help with them, but you need serious work on your critiques and personal essays regarding the art pieces I assign.
[ More feeling, Alhaitham. It is about passion! So, anyone who has none of that is not a partner Kaveh can see himself with. ]
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It's why his response is so sure when Kaveh says he'll change his mind, a definitive — ]
I won't.
[ But he does wrinkle his nose slightly at the comment about him needing to work on his critiques and personal essays. He knows the reason why Kaveh is asking him that, can see where he's lacking, but he just doesn't have the same passion for art that Kaveh does.
But he does have passion for Kaveh, so he'll work on it. He will. ]
... Fine. I'll try harder, if that'll make you happy.
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Instead, he smiles when Alhaitham agrees to try harder. Even if it's for a reason other than personal interest, Kaveh will take it for now. ]
If you have any questions, my office is always open. This time, try coming when I am here, rather than sneaking in.
[ The gifts. Kaveh hadn't touched them, but he's drinking the coffee, so that's a start. ]
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For instance. The coffee, he's drinking the coffee. Alhaitham is filled with the urge to give him more gifts, more things to take care of him. A blanket covered in his scent. Food cooked by Alhaitham. Whatever else will make Kaveh feel comforted and taken care of by an alpha, whatever he needs. ]
... Okay. As long as you'll have me.
[ Though it also feels like Kaveh is shooing him out. He doesn't want to go, doesn't like the idea of being away from Kaveh but... there's not much he can do if Kaveh wants him to leave. For a moment, he does look rather awkward as he's caught between the urge to stay and the more logical notion of leaving. ]
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But maybe there is a tiny part of him that wouldn't mind it. A partner, who liked him for himself, and not the fact that he is an attractive omega, or that he smells nice. Kaveh doesn't quite believe Alhaitham is really attracted to only him; he figures this will pass the moment he catches sight of someone more appealing, or when the gifts don't immediately draw Kaveh into his bed. But for now... this is fine.
Still, Alhaitham seems to want to linger. Kaveh purses his lips; there's something about him that is kind of cute. Charming. Ugh. ]
...You don't have to look at me like that. Do you want to say something? If you do, come out and say it.
[ Even though he ignores it, as much as Kaveh hates this, there is still the urge to soothe. ]
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... I find you overwhelmingly endearing, Professor. You may think this conversation has scared me off but it's only bolstered my resolve to court you. There was a chance I'd come here and our personalities would be too polarizing for this to work but I don't think so anymore. I think we're compatible and I'd like to get to know you more.
[ He knows that might be a little much but, well. It's how he feels and Kaveh said to just say it, didn't he? He wonders if there's anything he could do that would make Kaveh dislike him. There's still that unknown quantity of all this that makes him wonder if there will be an action he takes, a thing he says, something that happens that makes Kaveh disregard him entirely and throw him out for good.
He hopes he doesn't find it. ]
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The more Kaveh's curiosity grows. And he knows it shouldn't, but he is. Fascinating? There's none of that stupid, fake-nice flattery that most alphas give him, complimenting his appearance and his scent and telling him how good he'd be as a mate, like Kaveh doesn't have his own life and goals he is working towards. It's just Alhaitham saying, very bluntly, that he thinks they are compatible, and staying determined to court Kaveh no matter how rude he is. Normally, that is a major turn-off, isn't it?
And yet, Alhaitham calls it endearing. ]
How, exactly, do you think we're compatible? I don't know anything about you, and you hardly know anything about me. Maybe I can't stand your habits, or maybe you can't stand mine. Maybe you hate the foods I'm best at cooking, or I hate the way you sleep. I've been around long enough to know that just because someone seems good to you, does not mean you are at all compatible.
[ Kaveh says it just as bluntly. He isn't saying that is the case, but... he's had enough bad dates. ]
On top of that, I would hate if you changed yourself to fit my preferences, so don't even think about it.
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Don't worry, I don't change myself for anyone.
[ He's long since held to his ways stubbornly, knows himself enough to know that he isn't exactly the most easy to get along with and that's why he has the reputation that he does. But still that doesn't mean there's no hope for the two of them. Alhaitham firmly believes there is. Because the compatibility doesn't just come from his scent alone but in this short conversation, Alhaitham has learned a lot about Kaveh. ]
I think we're compatible because the things you've expressed in this conversation have only made me more sure about you. You're driven and you won't let me affect your career, which I never would but some alphas don't respect an omega's choice of career and you seem the type not to tolerate that sort of behavior. It makes me like you more. You're opinionated and considerate, you've spent a lot of this conversation setting boundaries but also not wanting to hurt my feelings. You can, if you want. I can take it if there's really something about me that turns you off but... I'm getting the feeling that there isn't.
You're also fiercely independent, which I like too. I couldn't stand being with an omega who wasn't their own person. If we were to bond, I would want it to be because we both want it, and we think it would make us better as individuals to be together than apart. I don't know what type of alpha you're looking for but I imagine the typical swagger filled boneheads you might meet don't suit your preferences.
I'm not someone who wants an omega to take advantage of and dominate. You don't seem the type who would want an alpha to do that for you either. I want an omega I respect, who respects me back, and who will allow me to be there for them on their terms. I want an omega who is clear about what they want and will hold high standards for me to meet and make me work for their favor. Compatibility is just the first step. But from what I see from this conversation so far, I think we have it.
[ That was a lot of talking on Alhaitham's part and he doesn't typically like talking that much but he wanted to be clear about his wants and desires and what he sees here between them. So, afterwards, he goes quiet and just looks back at Kaveh with earnestness in his eyes. He wants Kaveh to see what he sees and even if it doesn't succeed today, hopefully this is a good start. ]
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And he cannot help the feeling of flattery, either, which his scent likely conveys. Alhaitham compliments him in ways others don't, and he is more than a little surprised that Alhaitham picked up all these things just from a brief conversation where Kaveh tried gently to turn him down, and the fact that Kaveh really isn't turned off by him. Rather the opposite, in fact, but it is Kaveh's stubbornness and some sense of morals that keeps him from going in right away.
It is the last part that really makes Alhaitham hard to ignore, though. This... is the type of relationship he wants. And that's the thing; Kaveh, for all the rejections he has doled out, is not opposed to a relationship. Maybe it's something he yearns for; he is a lonely man, but holds his independence higher than settling down with someone who would seek to train that out of him.
...gods, he's in trouble. ]
That is the most I've ever heard you talk in one go. Maybe if you turned some of that introspection on your art reviews, your observations would seem a little less stiff.
[ Kaveh clears his throat. ]
There's a new place close to campus that I've been meaning to try. Do you like Indian food?
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This is going to be hard, he knows. To hold himself back, to not press Kaveh for more sooner than he is ready for. His whole body aches for even just the slightest touch from Kaveh and he already knows he's going to try to bury his nose in his own clothes when he goes home, desperate for some sort of rub off of Kaveh's scent. He's... he's really down bad for Kaveh, even if he's trying so hard to keep himself in check.
When Kaveh asks him if he likes Indian food, the implication that they would go to get the food together — Alhaitham isn't a very expressive individual but the way his body perks up a bit at that makes it seem like if he had a tail, it would be wagging. ]
I like Indian food. Are you... asking me to accompany you?
[ More! Time! With! Kaveh! That's all he wanted and now he's being given this gift. He's thrilled. ]
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Just a casual thing. Not a date.
[ To make it clear!!! Kaveh is Alhaitham’s professor; nothing can happen. Nothing will happen, or that’s what he tells himself, even if there is undoubtedly something about Alhaitham that piques Kaveh’s interest, and his attraction.
Yes, maybe Alhaitham is Kaveh’s type. That doesn’t mean he intends to entertain this crush of his. ]
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That doesn't matter to him. It's still more time with Kaveh, more time to learn how he ticks and what Alhaitham can do in the future to make himself even more indispensable to Kaveh. He's ready for the long game of this. ]
Not a date, I understand.
[ Of course, he would want their first date to be a little more special than just Indian food, after all. ]
Should we get going now or is there more you have to do here before then?
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