Kaveh sat in his room, tapping his suitcase Mehrak prompted the little suitcase to open. He held out his hand as the fourth volume of They Were Roommates floated into it. A few sounds came from it as it shut. Mehraks luminescent eyes faded from the center of the suitcase while Kaveh adjusted his position and then relaxed.
He looked at the cover feeling embarrassed. While he was no stranger to Nozomi or Yae Publishing covers having explicit nudity to them, he could never get used to his own face and Alhaithams being plastered over the front. Kaveh's shirt on the cover was unbuttoned with Alhaithams face looking at its audience with his head near Kavehs chest.
"Well, at least this time I might be the top… maybe Nozomi took my suggestions and made Alhaitham the bottom this time." He muttered. "I deserve to be in charge for once. God knows I'll ever find it in real life."
Kaveh lifted his glass and took a long swig. He knew it would be hours and he'd rather read through the fourth volume without being sober. He flipped the first page and nearly choked while swallowing. A sample manga panel of Alhaitham lay on the lounge, tugging on a chain connected to a collar. Kaveh in the manga panel was bent on all fours, Alhaithams boots pressing into his back.
"I thought she was only joking about making me into a footrest! Nozomi what the hell!" Kaveh groaned. "I wonder how Alhaitham is taking this… he hasn't mentioned anything and I actually wonder if he enjoys the thought of me squirming in more than one way."
He shivered at the thought. It was more likely the Scribe would grin at his discomfort.
A knock came at the door and Nozomi wandered in, her smile changed to a look of sheepish concern when she saw him hold the book. Kaveh wanted to have a few words but as always, the words got caught in his throat. He couldn't help but stop whenever Nozomi smiled at him.
Nozomi wore her hair tied in a high ponytail, part of it parted in the front falling on either side of her face. Kaveh couldn't help but stare at the loose purple blouse, trying to ignore where her Hydro Vision hung on her chest.
"Now I know I'm not the face of an angel right now as you're reading the fourth volume, but I've come to catch up with you." Nozomi took a seat near him and held his hand. "How have you been feeling? I barely see you these days due to work."
Kaveh rubbed his thumb along hers, noticing her smooth skin and the faint smell of the perfume she always wore. He felt strange ever since Nozomi was brought home the day she collapsed. It took him weeks to trust she could function well enough around the house.
Kaveh didn't tell her the real reason he felt so overprotective of her due to his past. Both had their separate lives with architects and Authors to contend with.
It had been several months since then and he knew by the slight ink on the side of her chin she had been studying for the exams.
The final exams would determine whether her thesis would be approved and ultimately, whether she would need to repeat another year or graduate.
"I've been alright, you don't need to worry… why do you always have to look at me like I've missed something?" He sighed. "Look it's nothing a nice shower, soup, and some alcohol can't cure. Though I'll probably have to book a massage at some point."
Kaveh rolled his shoulders, his back still felt heavy from spending hours helping construction and contractors carry the foundations for the buildings in the desert. The ink on Nozomi's chin irritated him, he licked his thumb and started to rub her chin. He felt Nozomis eyes stare at him quizzically.
"Have you been sleeping on your desk again? I keep telling you to take breaks you know. Jeez, this ink doesn't want to come off." Kaveh bit into his sleeve and covered his hand, rubbing her face. "Sorry, I know I tend to mother you but just pretend I do it because I care about you."
He felt the heat rise in her cheeks through his sleeve, she tried to turn away but his fingers held their grip. Kaveh laughed as she used her hands to slap his hand away, Nozomi folded her legs and rolled her eyes.
"Kaveh, you always mother me regardless." Nozomi pulled his hands into his, massaging them. "I don't think you'll ever stop, it's just how you are."
"As I've said, at least you appreciate me, unlike Alhaitham." He blushed.
"You know, he probably does care about you too. He just has a weird way of showing it." She snickered. "I mean he's actually been going through the fridge and throwing away any old food for once… shocking right?"
"Yeah, I know… and before you lecture me about him being an introvert, I don't mind if he is. I've learned the difference in statues for a long time before you were around." Kaveh sighed. "Your hands feel nice, why can't everyone be as nice as you are?"
"Well, that's because I love giving you compliments. It's always nice seeing you have a smile on your face." She chirped. "You have your strengths too, one of them is being optimistic, the other is that you're always so kind to people who need help. Sometimes I'm worried about how your kindness can be interpreted."
"Mmm." Kaveh looked at her hands, barely noticing the compliments while they sat together.
Her touch always felt as calm as water, refreshing and relaxing. They had always held hands, casually reassuring each other. Kaveh had always appreciated the closeness of her touch, but right now, it felt like ripples were flowing everywhere inside him. He felt a shiver through his spine while Nozomi focused on massaging his hands, moments of silence passed.
Their breathing was the only sound in his room.
"So… Kaveh." Nozomi looked up at him. "This may change everything between us and our living situation. I was wondering…"
Kaveh couldn't understand why he felt nervous. Her wrapped his hands around hers, pausing the massage. "Go on, what did you want to say?"
He could hear the strain in her breathing, almost wondering if she was about to collapse again. Kaveh shook his head. Nozomi leaned her head back, her eyes tightly closed as she squeezed his hands.
"I think I may like you!" Her eyes opened and stammered. "That I actually want to be closer to you. Every time I'm with you, I'm always happier. Your face is adorable and I love the fact you care so much about people."
Kaveh fumbled around, unsure of what to make of this. His heart skipped and he knew his face would be as red as hers. He gazed into the obsidian depths he came to admire, her lips soft. As he leaned forward, Nozomi squeezed his hands harder.
"Ow!" Kaveh drew his hands back. "You don't have to squeeze so hard!"
Nozomi let go and hid her face behind one of his pillows. Kaveh chuckled quietly and then moved closer to her. He pulled the pillow down and pinched her nose.
"Hey… I'm not going anywhere. Did you want to repeat what you said?"
Nozomi glared and firmly placed the pillow in front of them. Kaveh couldn't help but laugh as her cheeks puffed as if she was about to scold him.
"I said I like you, idiot!" She turned away. "Don't make me say it again, I'll write the next scene with Alhaitham hand-feeding you while you're tied up."
"Urgh really!? Did you really have to mention Alhaitham…" Kaveh shuffled closer and buried his head in her shoulder. "At this stage, I'm used to being everyone's bottom in your books. Anyway…"
Kaveh straightened and placed both hands on the sides of her face. He tucked her hair to the sides and leaned forward, their foreheads touching. He watched as Nozomi leaned into his touch.
"Nozomi… I've felt the same way for years. I didn't know if you felt the same way. I love how you're so cheerful and when you're around me too." Kaveh swallowed. "I finally realized it when you collapsed at your book signing."
The front door rattled and both quickly separated. Alhaitham would walk past any minute. Kaveh could already feel Nozomis eyes, he tapped his knees and looked down. He wanted to speak but again, the words were caught in his throat.
"Did you want to go on a date with me Kaveh?" Nozomi whispered.
"I- well yes!" Kaveh whispered back. "I'm free tomorrow during the festival, are you?"
Nozomi nodded and stood up to leave. Kaveh couldn't stop looking at her. She suddenly walked over and leaned toward his face.
"What are you…"
Time seemed to pause as Nozomi blinked and then kissed the side of his cheek. Before Kaveh could say anything he watched as she darted away.
"I'll see you tomorrow! Have a good day." She smiled and then closed his door.
"See you tomorrow." He whispered touching the side of his face. "My god she is so cute."
The Sabzeruz Festival was in full swing as Nozomi pushed through the crowd. She brushed her hair back, trying to make sure it was straightened when she'd meet up with Kaveh. Her heart raced in anticipation of whether Kaveh would like the dress she wore. They had agreed to meet up after she had finished work. Thankfully Nozomi was already way ahead of her work.
As she walked past vendors selling mirrors she spun around and double-checked everything was in order. Her hair was worn down with the silver earrings she had received from Layla. Patterns of stars and crescent moons adorned most of her blue dress. Nozomi smiled at herself feeling like the night sky as the full moon reflected in the background.
She made her way near the Grand Bazaar Markets where she had her book signing a few months ago. Nozomi had left a note for Kaveh to wait for her near the stage, which they hoped wouldn't be too crowded to find him.
"Let's just hope he recognizes me, he's never seen me with my hair down," Nozomi held her head remembering the couch. "Dang it never mind, yes he has."
She pushed the wooden doors open to the markets. While there was a crowd celebrating the Greater Lord Kusanalis' birthday, her eyes automatically saw Kaveh standing near the stage.
"Did I underdress? He looks so good!" She gasped.
Kaveh still wore his blonde hair in its normal state. Her eyes wandered along his white suit, crimson necktie and a gold chain connecting the overhanging white jacket overtop. Nozomi slowly walked over, waving at him.
He looked up and she saw his face give a flustered look. Before he could say anything Nozomi decided to hug him. She smelled his cologne and looked up into his amber eyes.
"You look good tonight Kaveh!" Nozomi smiled warmly. "I'm sorry if I kept you waiting."
"You didn't keep me waiting… not at all." Kaveh pulled her closer. "I just got here myself. You wouldn't believe how out of practice I am with tying this stupid necktie."
Kaveh inserted a finger, trying to loosen his tie unsuccessfully.
"Urgh never mind you're here." His hand brushed her face. "You're the spitting image of the stars you know?"
Nozomi almost pushed him away at the compliment.
"Was that too much?" He leaned forward. "I guess I can tone it down if you'd like?"
Nozomi shook her head at him and he chuckled. Her head started to spin the longer they stared at each other. She looked around the Grand Bazaar and the stage and pointed to a few chairs.
"Since we are celebrating the birth of your Dendro Archon, should we grab something to eat and then take a seat? I'm… honestly not good at this dating thing. It's a first for me."
Kaveh nodded and placed his hands in hers.
"I've never gone on an official date myself…" He coughed. "That is to say, when I was studying at the Akademiya I did try. We got as far as… stuff- I mean…"
Nozomi struggled not to poke his head. He fumbled over his words.
He's so adorable when he's nervous… I can't imagine what life back at the Akademiya would have been like for him.
"Wait, what do you mean by 'stuff'?" Nozomi realized then hid her face. "Oh, I'm so daft… apologies. If it's any comfort, I've only just done stuff too."
"T-that makes two of us." He coughed. "Well, should we go?"
Nozomi was pulled forward and his hands wrapped around her waist, his fingers almost dug into a spot in her side and she tried not to blush. She looked ahead of them as they ordered kebabs at a nearby stall. Green and Gold lights hung above it giving a faint glow and Nozomis mouth started to water at the scents of spices on grilled meats. Her stomach rumbled and Kaveh smiled as he grabbed their servings.
As they walked back and took a seat, the markets grew dark and the stage lights flicked on. A center light illuminated the stage and a woman posed with three other dancers. Nozomi remembered Kaveh mentioning that every year for the Subzeruz festival a dancer well-known across Sumeru would perform. The woman in question had red hair, a veil with horns as a headpiece. Her blue eyes briefly met Nozomis' and a shiver ran through her spine as if time itself froze.
"Welcome Everyone to our performance! My name is Nilou and tonight I will be performing the dance of Yesterday's Memories. This piece is to commemorate that our Archon has blessed us now for five years. It is with those blessings that we need to celebrate, and honor the growth our nation has witnessed." Nilou bowed. "May all of you always be blessed under our Dendro Archon."
Nilou waved her hands gracefully as she walked backward, almost as if she was floating. Ripples of water flowed around her body as she danced in time with the music. Nozomi leaned against Kaveh, and both remained entranced with Nilous's performance.
Nozomi barely chewed through her food, forgetting the world existed. Kaveh stared ahead, a look of wonderment on his face. Warmth filled her when he felt for her hand without looking down.
Once the performance came to an end, Kaveh stood to applaud them. Nilou silently bowed and waved to the crowd. Nozomi stood up and started to walk closer to the stage with Kaveh as the crowd drifted away. Nilou turned around with a surprised look on her face.
"Kaveh! It's been a while, how have you been? You also must be Nozomi?" Nilou sat down, her feet hanging over the edge of the stage. "Are you two on a date?"
"Um-" Nozomi felt her cheeks redden.
"Y-yeah… we are. I guess this is our first date." Kaveh quickly nodded. "You performed really well up there. I'm glad to finally catch one of your dances."
"Oh my! Thank you both so much!" Her hands together. "It's always a pleasure performing for our Dendro Archon. Nozomi, I really liked reading your books… I was wondering…"
Nozomi bowed her head. "You'd like my autograph?"
"No no, I was actually wondering if you two would like to dance on my stage?" Nilou gestured with a wide smile. "I already owned a signed copy the day you had your book signing. Everyone was busy talking amongst themselves but I remember you being so nice! So I've been meaning to ask if I ever came across you again if you'd like to dance?"
Nozomi was taken aback and looked at Kaveh.
"I wouldn't mind dancing with you…" He smiled while looking down. "I mean it wouldn't be a date without one after all."
"But Kaveh… I don't know how to dance. The best I could do is just hopscotch." Nozomi blurted out and turned to Nilou. "Plus why would you let me use your stage? It belongs to you."
Nilou's soft laugh carried over like wind chimes. "You don't have to be a professional to use the stage silly, you just need to have fun! I can show you a few steps before you and Kaveh go up on stage. Please, I've been wanting to watch you dance for a while!"
Nozomi watched as Nilou bowed with her hands in prayer. She placed her hands on both her shoulders and looked at Kaveh who started to remove his coat.
"Alright, alright fine I'll dance since you've asked so nicely!" Nozomi tugged at her arms. "Please stand up, there's no need to be so formal. Though I have no idea why you'd want to ask me specifically to dance?"
"Oh it's simple," Nilou cheered. "It's because I know you'd appreciate the arts through writing! There's also nothing more romantic than sharing a dance in the arms of someone you love. Aw, you two would look cute together, I'm super jealous!"
Nozomi sighed then all three lined up and stood together at the bottom of Zubyr's stage. They went through a few steps together and Nilou had even taught Nozomi a few steps on how to waltz. Nilou told her that she once had a student from Fontaine teach her how to waltz and swing. After an hour had passed, both Kaveh and Nozomi slid off their coats feeling too hot to care about the weather. Nilou guided them both up the stairs and stood in the middle, pointing to the spots Nozomi and Kaveh needed to stand.
Kaveh wrapped his arms around Nozomi, bringing her close to him. Nilou called out behind them.
"Remember, it's all about having fun!" She turned towards a group of small musicians. "Please start when you're ready."
The music started to play and Nozomi felt Kavehs hand on her waist as he leaned in and started to lead.
"Kaveh… is this swing music?" Nozomi followed as quickly as she could.
"Yes, I think so. I'm not sure exactly what I'm doing but I think we've got something going." Kaveh laughed through a twirl. "Get ready to spin."
Nozomi and Kaveh separated, kicking their heels in the air, and spun toward one another. Even when she had spent time in Inazuma working with Itto, she hadn't felt like she had this much fun. Her breath came quickly as Kaveh grabbed her waist and spun her around. Neither noticed the claps coming from the audience as he held her above him. The song built to its final chorus and Nozomi held onto Kavehs arms as she felt herself flung forward through his legs and tugged back into the air. She hadn't expected this amount of strength from him or his face looked beautiful when she landed on the stage.
Both stood facing the other breathing heavily and they heard the clapping of the audience at the stage. Kaveh wiped his brow with a smile.
"I think we've gotten more than a workout today." He bent over. "Are you feeling as old as I am right now?"
"Old you say? I feel like I've lost my legs…" Nozomi tried stretching side to side, straightening her dress. "I'm going to feel this in the morning."
Looking at Kaveh, she actually felt she was walking on clouds. Nozomi held them trying not to shake. Nilou came up behind them and pat them both on the back.
"Well done you two!" She clapped. "That was great, you both looked good together. I know this is your first time so please help yourselves to some refreshments, it's on the theatre tonight. To celebrate our great Dendro Archon, please have these Padisarahs."
"Thanks so much for giving us an impromptu dance lesson." Kaveh beamed and accepted the Padisarahs. "It was a lot of fun. It's a pleasure to finally catch one of your shows."
"Wow these are pretty, I wish we had these in Inazuma." Nozomi held hers and smelled its fragrance. "Thank you so much Nilou."
Nilou gave Nozomi a long embrace and pulled her in close.
"I hope things work out okay with Kaveh, please look after him. He's had a rough time." She whispered. "I'm glad he's found someone to fall in love with."
Nozomi pulled back hurriedly and covered her face. Kaveh looked at her quizically and she pulled his hand and tugged him away from the Grand Bazaar out into the streets.
"Nozomi are you okay? You look as red as a flame."
"Just… blushing… stuff you read about all the time in novels when the love interest does anything cute." Nozomi swallowed. "Normal stuff right?"
"Ah, so that's how you feel." Kaveh held her hand, rubbing her fingers. "Funny how we're both feeling just as nervous as the other… heh."
He pulled the Padisarah out of his pocket and walked behind her. Nozomi tried to move but Kaveh gently pulled her back towards him. She wasn't sure what to make of what he was doing. Only that she felt the warmth of his breath on her neck and his fingers through her hair felt pleasing.
"For Archons hold still… I'm just putting this in your hair. Twirl around for a minute." He turned her around, brushing strands of her hair to the side.
"Your hands are so ticklish I can't help it!" She squirmed. "What are you trying to stuff, a sticky honey roast?"
"How about… doing as you're told?" He teased.
Nozomi looked up at him, a look of surprise spread across her face.
He's either been reading too many of my novels or Kavehs trying really hard not to laugh right now.
Turns out neither was correct as she heard Kavehs breath quip suddenly. She knew he'd probably be flustered and chuckled.
"I was about to say… I thought we established that you're the bottom in my book."
Kaveh gave her a look as she felt the Padisarah slide behind her ear, at the side of her vision she could see a slight violet and its green leaves. Her insides felt as if she'd melt at the cute gesture. He turned to look away at the markets, it was now bustling with more people walking towards the port. Kaveh pointed over in the opposite direction, the was a space no one was standing or sitting.
"Actually, before the fireworks start… did you want to dance again?" Kaveh tried to keep a straight face. "I wouldn't mind dancing with you before the night ends, just us two."
Nozomi struggled not to gush over how cute the gesture was. Any feelings of being nervous around Kaveh faded. She nodded, following him to the space where only the faint dim of gold glistened in the atmosphere. A thought occurred on how they would be able to dance without music, she strained her ears for any sounds from Zubayr Stage. None came to her ears.
"Please don't take any offense Kaveh but how do we dance without music?"
"Oh uh… I was hoping we make our own up… if that makes sense." Kaveh stood in the center. "Sorry I'm not that great with improv but please humor me."
Nozomi giggled as she leaned forward when Kaveh placed his hands on her waist. The other hand was placed in hers and she looked up at him. The night sky hung above with its stars contrasting against his amber eyes. His blonde hair seemed to light up her vision when he smiled.
She decided to hum a melody she had learned in Inazuma. The same one Yae Miko had hummed whenever they had sat together on the front porch underneath the moonlight at the Grand Narukami Shrine. Kaveh looked down at her surprised and she nodded for them to continue.
The more they swayed, the more Nozomi leaned into Kaveh's embrace. His arm around her waist pulled her closer, the smell of his cologne didn't escape her attention as they slowly stepped in a circle. Memories flooded her mind of the first day that they had met and a sad twinge curled at the back of her throat of how helpful he had been. Not just to herself, but to others in Sumeru. Despite Alhaithams qualms about him being too generous, while she somewhat did agree, she felt that his kindness was genuine and wasn't often appreciated.
"Kaveh," she whispered.
"Hmm yes?" Kaveh put his chin on top of her head.
"I just want to say, I'm so happy I've met you. Your kindness knows no bounds and I pray that people do notice this. I hope I'm one of the people that have reciprocated what you deserve. I know we haven't talked much about your past and some of our encounters are… awkward. However, I just want you to know that-"
Kaveh tilted her head upwards and leaned forward. His eyes seemed to shake as Nozomi stared back.
"Uh what are you-"
His lips gently touched hers, his eyes closing. Nozomi kept her eyes open in surprise, a warmth ran down her spine as his fingers held her closer and she leaned into him. Her eyes closed and the sound of fireworks in the background could be heard. Nozomi traced her fingers around Kaveh's face, deepening their kiss.
Then, Kaveh pulled away and looked down at her. Both remained quiet for some time before either spoke. Nozomi knew now that words weren't necessary between them and buried her face into his chest.
"Nozomi." He whispered. "You've no idea how much has changed since you've been around. I'm so glad you live with us. I'm so glad that you feel the same way about me… more importantly, I'm so happy to share this feeling with you."
Tears rose as Nozomi raised her hand to catch them. Kavehs mouth twinged and he brought her face close and he used his sleeve to wipe them. He leaned near her neck and kissed it.
"Really, I like it when you're passionate about your writing… I could go on about what I love about you." Kaveh paused, leaning his head into his shoulder. "I'm sorry this is so cheesy, I'm really trying here."
Nozomi put her lips to his forehead, gently trailing her fingers through his hair. She heard him breathe heavily and her heart skipped fast. She felt her cheeks begin to burn.
"You can be cheesy as much as you'd like but… before we make a public pool of ourselves, should we start heading home?"
Kaveh straightened, nearly hitting Nozomis's nose accidentally. Before Kaveh could apologize she laughed loudly. Her body bent over for a few minutes and Kaveh joined in heartedly.
"We really are a pair of fools!" Kaveh wiped his eyes. "Let's go home."
Nozomi laced her arms through his, navigating up the streets slowly appreciating the remaining fireworks until the soft glow of the front porch greeted them. She narrowed her eyes while Kaveh checked his pockets for his keys.
"You… really need to staple the keys somewhere or at least hand them to Mehrak for safekeeping."
Kaveh turned back, grinning as he held out his keys. Nozomi clapped as he rolled his eyes.
"I don't see you rummaging around for your keys all the time." He teased.
"That's because tonight they're… in a place your hands shouldn't be going into." Nozomi turned away with a sly grin.
Kaveh opened the door, a slow realization dawned on his face and Nozomi noticed his eyes dart toward her chest. She facepalmed and pushed him through the doorway and patted his face.
"You've read enough of my novels and probably others to know what I meant way before I said that." She stood near the stairs near her room. "Next you'll be gawking when I say… pfft I forgot where I was going with this."
"Honestly I'm not sure either but before… either of us go to bed, do you mind if I kiss you again?"
Nozomi breathed out as she tried not to stare too long at Kaveh. She walked over and wrapped her arms around his waist not quite sure if he would remain flustered or push her away with how his breathing seemed shallow.
"I'd love it if you would."
Once again her chin was tilted upwards though his fingers rubbed along her cheeks as he kissed her. Nozomi was caught off guard as she felt Kavehs tongue slide inside. She let out a moan and felt herself being pushed up against the wall. Her hands gripped his back as their breathing escalated, she could hear his soft moans as he pressed his body against hers.
When Kaveh pulled away, it took Nozomi a moment to stop herself from pulling him back. Evidently, his eyes scanning her lips told her the same. A sheepish grin crawled up his face.
"I can't stop wanting to kiss you." He sighed. "Do you have work tomorrow?"
The rest of the week was booked alongside Alhaithams from what she remembered. She banged her head against the wall knowing that because of the end-of-year exams and the extra workload.
"With the exams coming up I'll have to literally fight time to have any. Work at this time of year spikes like crazy… I'll see how I go."
Kaveh leaned against the door with a disappointed look on his face.
"Unfortunately I won't have any time either with work. For some reason, they're really hammering the deadline sooner than I thought out in the desert. Madame Faruzan will skin me alive if I don't focus or take more days off." He shrugged. "Honestly I do need the mora though. I just… wish I could be with you more."
Her ears rang and she folded her arms to stop herself running to him.
"Well… we could go on another date after the exams are finished and whenever you're free after. I just don't know how I'd go not hearing from you."
"I'll make sure you'll hear from me, I promise." He smiled sadly. "Maybe we could write each other notes?"
She held out her pinky finger while beaming. He grinned curling his around hers and swore an oath in Inazuman.
"Why is it promises to the death in Inazuma anyway?" He wrapped his hands around hers. "I'll wish you a goodnight. Hope we can see each other during the week… goodness knows I'll need it to get me through."
Kaveh let go but Nozomi kept standing near him. She rose on the tips of her toes and kissed him again, hearing his breath catch then she stood back.
"Goodnight Kaveh, rest well."
"Goodnight I-" he coughed. "Rest well."
Nozomi climbed up the stairs feeling his eyes burn along her skin. It took until she closed her bedroom door behind her to not look back. She threw herself onto the bed, Alhaithams headphones flopped near her hands and she sighed. A feeling lingered and she tried to drown out her own thoughts of Kavehs hands wondering everywhere on her skin.
