[ This is far more involved than most attempts to court him, which is something Kaveh slowly realizes when he scents the change in how Alhaitham smells. Kaveh feels the urge to soothe and placate, but he ignores it, pushing it down under the annoyance he'd been feeling.
It would be incredibly inappropriate to even entertain something like this, and he knows it. Even if Kaveh were interested, which he isn't.
A heavy sigh; Kaveh sits back in his chair. He remembers the coffee in his hand. ]
You have an interest in me? As what? A mentor, like you said? A friend, or colleague, or something else?
[ Alhaitham mentioning his angle - to know what makes Kaveh happy - is slightly flattering, he has to admit. ]
[ There's no point in lying now, though he already decided not to lie when the initial question was posed to him. So, as Kaveh asks what type of interest he has in him, Alhaitham can only reply with the truth. ]
I want you as a mate, but I'd settle for a friend if you're not interested in me. I don't know if I'd be able to handle it if you found a mate who wasn't me though, even if we did decide to just be friends.
[ The idea of it makes him want to bite something, to rip, to tear. He doesn't want to give Kaveh up to another alpha, doesn't even want to entertain the idea. He still isn't looking at Kaveh, head ducked slightly out of shame and his scent still carries a sour tinge of melancholy on it. But he's not lying, he's being as honest as he can be in this moment about his feelings for Kaveh. ]
[ Ah, and there it is. A possessive, hardheaded alpha thinking Kaveh will want to be his mate just because they want him. A huff, and Kaveh has half a mind to dump the coffee out right there, but he would stain his floor.
...it is rather hard to just shut him down, though. Kaveh feels oddly drawn to Alhaitham in a way he never has with other alphas, which is the only thing keeping him from kicking Alhaitham out right there. ]
Why? You only know me through this one class I've taught you. You have no idea if we would be compatible, and on top of that, it simply isn't appropriate.
[ Kaveh takes his job very seriously. There is no way he's going to tarnish his reputation for something like this. ]
[ Why? Why does he want Kaveh? He honestly doesn't know how to put it into words, it would be easier if it was just a crush on a teacher or something simple like that. He could talk up his lectures, his beauty, whatever. But it's not. It's his instincts, telling him that Kaveh is all he wants, that they're made to be together, that he's mate material. It goes against everything Alhaitham usually stands for — reason and evidence and cold, hard logic.
Part of him truly hates it. ]
I can't... explain it. [ Alhaitham lifts a hand, pressing it to his face and closes his eyes. He looks pained as he mumbles through his fingers. ] Ever since we met, I haven't wanted anything but you. Your scent, your voice, the way you move, it's all consumed me. I ache to be the perfect alpha for you, but I don't know how. I've never felt like this before.
[ Archons, this is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to him. He doesn't even know how he'll deal with reliving this moment again and again, especially after being rejected. He might genuinely take up drinking. ]
[ Kaveh's expression softens a little. Alhaitham seems genuine, like he really doesn't know what to do. Kaveh wants to tell him he'll get over it, that Alhaitham will forget about him once he's finished with Kaveh's class, even as warmth touches his cheeks and he resists the urge to fan himself. ]
That's... flattering. But wouldn't you do better to pursue a peer? Surely there must be someone you've been interested in. Besides, college is about having fun and experimenting, isn't it?
[ ...he can't believe he's encouraging a student to get up to mischief. He also can't believe he's not simply kicking Alhaitham out, but there is something about the sight of him like this that tugs at Kaveh's chest. ]
[ Alhaitham's hand drops from his face as he heaves a sigh, his elbows braced on his lap and he leans forward a little, head dropping forward and eyes fixed on the ground between his feet. He looks a little defeated. A lot defeated. This is the first time he's been able to speak to anyone about his feelings since they struck him and it's a little mortifying for that person to be the object of his affections in the first place. ]
Is that what you want me to do?
[ He doesn't like the idea of it. Pursuing other omegas, kissing them, having sex with them. It makes him feel vaguely ill. But if that's what Kaveh wants of him, he would do it. For him. ]
I apologize if my lack of experience is offputting. I can find another omega, if that's what you want. [ He finally looks up at Kaveh again then, the look in his eyes a little frazzled. ] I'll gain the experience I need and return when you deem me fit.
[ Is that too much to say? It feels like too much to say but he's out of his depth here. His previous attempts at courting failed but Kaveh hasn't fully kicked him out yet so maybe he just... needs to do something to be suitable for Kaveh. ]
[ Return when Kaveh deems him fit? What is this vaguely kicked-puppy-like atmosphere? Kaveh falters, because while he is used to unwanted attention, he's never had anyone pursue him like this before. Why does he actually want to give this guy a chance? It's not like Kaveh wants to be alone forever; he's just not interested in someone who only wants him as arm candy or a fulfillment of the status quo. ]
It's- It's not a matter of your experience. This is honestly one of the nicest ways anyone has tried to hit on me before. But you can't go pursuing your professors!
[ Kaveh's totally not saying this would be a chance he'd take - for a first date, at least, or spending some time together - if Alhaitham weren't a student. ]
There are so many other options. I don't know what it is about me that you've been particularly drawn to, but look at you; you must have had tons of interest from your peers.
[ 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. ]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
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It would be incredibly inappropriate to even entertain something like this, and he knows it. Even if Kaveh were interested, which he isn't.
A heavy sigh; Kaveh sits back in his chair. He remembers the coffee in his hand. ]
You have an interest in me? As what? A mentor, like you said? A friend, or colleague, or something else?
[ Alhaitham mentioning his angle - to know what makes Kaveh happy - is slightly flattering, he has to admit. ]
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I want you as a mate, but I'd settle for a friend if you're not interested in me. I don't know if I'd be able to handle it if you found a mate who wasn't me though, even if we did decide to just be friends.
[ The idea of it makes him want to bite something, to rip, to tear. He doesn't want to give Kaveh up to another alpha, doesn't even want to entertain the idea. He still isn't looking at Kaveh, head ducked slightly out of shame and his scent still carries a sour tinge of melancholy on it. But he's not lying, he's being as honest as he can be in this moment about his feelings for Kaveh. ]
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...it is rather hard to just shut him down, though. Kaveh feels oddly drawn to Alhaitham in a way he never has with other alphas, which is the only thing keeping him from kicking Alhaitham out right there. ]
Why? You only know me through this one class I've taught you. You have no idea if we would be compatible, and on top of that, it simply isn't appropriate.
[ Kaveh takes his job very seriously. There is no way he's going to tarnish his reputation for something like this. ]
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Part of him truly hates it. ]
I can't... explain it. [ Alhaitham lifts a hand, pressing it to his face and closes his eyes. He looks pained as he mumbles through his fingers. ] Ever since we met, I haven't wanted anything but you. Your scent, your voice, the way you move, it's all consumed me. I ache to be the perfect alpha for you, but I don't know how. I've never felt like this before.
[ Archons, this is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to him. He doesn't even know how he'll deal with reliving this moment again and again, especially after being rejected. He might genuinely take up drinking. ]
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That's... flattering. But wouldn't you do better to pursue a peer? Surely there must be someone you've been interested in. Besides, college is about having fun and experimenting, isn't it?
[ ...he can't believe he's encouraging a student to get up to mischief. He also can't believe he's not simply kicking Alhaitham out, but there is something about the sight of him like this that tugs at Kaveh's chest. ]
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Is that what you want me to do?
[ He doesn't like the idea of it. Pursuing other omegas, kissing them, having sex with them. It makes him feel vaguely ill. But if that's what Kaveh wants of him, he would do it. For him. ]
I apologize if my lack of experience is offputting. I can find another omega, if that's what you want. [ He finally looks up at Kaveh again then, the look in his eyes a little frazzled. ] I'll gain the experience I need and return when you deem me fit.
[ Is that too much to say? It feels like too much to say but he's out of his depth here. His previous attempts at courting failed but Kaveh hasn't fully kicked him out yet so maybe he just... needs to do something to be suitable for Kaveh. ]
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It's- It's not a matter of your experience. This is honestly one of the nicest ways anyone has tried to hit on me before. But you can't go pursuing your professors!
[ Kaveh's totally not saying this would be a chance he'd take - for a first date, at least, or spending some time together - if Alhaitham weren't a student. ]
There are so many other options. I don't know what it is about me that you've been particularly drawn to, but look at you; you must have had tons of interest from your peers.
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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. ]
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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. ]
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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?
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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. ]
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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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