[ If Kaveh wasn't already nervous, the dark flash across Alhaitham's eyes does the job for him, and when the scribe's lips part there's a single moment when the architect thinks he's going to be picking the pieces of Nasser up off the floor by the time this is done. But instead the other man goes for something different, offering praise to the blonde and making sure to cut the other scholar down while he does it. No doubt the surprise shows on his face as he shakes his head, trying to downplay the comments a little even as the group around them nods and agrees, as some of its members praise his finest work in a way that brings a pleased flush to his cheeks. ]
Ah, and just when I thought we were done with flattery for the evening.
[ To the others, he probably sounds amused, a little humble, but he's sure Alhaitham at least will hear the softness in his tone for what it is, a genuine gratitude for the other's efforts— because he knows that's what they are, knows how hard the other is working not to throw Nasser bodily out of the engagement the way he tossed Kaveh's last (ever, he hopes) one-night stand right out of the house.
But if the look the other man gave him a few moments ago is anything to go by, he's tired. And why wouldn't he be? Kaveh knows how far he is out of his comfort zone. It's with that in mind that the architect reaches for the glass the other holds, saying something— very much for show— about how Alhaitham is drinking something different to him, let him try it, taking and sipping it before anyone can comment on the fact that actually, it looks like it's very much the same.
From there, it's as simple as excusing them both— ] Forgive my rudeness, but I need to freshen my drink, and Alhaitham you must show me where you got this glass; it's so much nicer than the swill I've been drinking! [ and, with his hand around the scribe's wrist now, pulling him bodily away from the group and through the throngs of scholars.
Contrary to his words, though, he stops not at any of the tables or servers with glasses, but continues to one archway, tugging his partner through it and into one of the side hallways. Unlike the central area, the lighting is dim here, the area void of chattering and drinking scholars, and Kaveh is finally able to look fully at Alhaitham, a quiet concern on his face. ]
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Ah, and just when I thought we were done with flattery for the evening.
[ To the others, he probably sounds amused, a little humble, but he's sure Alhaitham at least will hear the softness in his tone for what it is, a genuine gratitude for the other's efforts— because he knows that's what they are, knows how hard the other is working not to throw Nasser bodily out of the engagement the way he tossed Kaveh's last (ever, he hopes) one-night stand right out of the house.
But if the look the other man gave him a few moments ago is anything to go by, he's tired. And why wouldn't he be? Kaveh knows how far he is out of his comfort zone. It's with that in mind that the architect reaches for the glass the other holds, saying something— very much for show— about how Alhaitham is drinking something different to him, let him try it, taking and sipping it before anyone can comment on the fact that actually, it looks like it's very much the same.
From there, it's as simple as excusing them both— ] Forgive my rudeness, but I need to freshen my drink, and Alhaitham you must show me where you got this glass; it's so much nicer than the swill I've been drinking! [ and, with his hand around the scribe's wrist now, pulling him bodily away from the group and through the throngs of scholars.
Contrary to his words, though, he stops not at any of the tables or servers with glasses, but continues to one archway, tugging his partner through it and into one of the side hallways. Unlike the central area, the lighting is dim here, the area void of chattering and drinking scholars, and Kaveh is finally able to look fully at Alhaitham, a quiet concern on his face. ]
Are you alright?