Alhaitham let out a long, exasperated sigh. All he wanted was to immerse himself in the contents of his book, but Paimon’s interruptions shattered his peace. Couldn’t the floating snowball just be quiet for once?

He reluctantly lifted his gaze as Paimon buzzed around him like an overly curious bee. The Traveler, oblivious to the commotion, seemed completely absorbed in their own thoughts, barely noticing Paimon’s persistent antics.

“Would you like to try reading this, Paimon?” Alhaitham asked, a hint of nothing in his voice.

Paimon’s eyes sparkled with excitement as she eagerly agreed and floated over to where Alhaitham held the book. The Traveler’s attention now shifted towards the scene unfolding before them, their curiosity piqued by the interaction between Alhaitham and the tiny cotton ball.

As Paimon struggled with the book’s contents, her confusion only seemed to entertain Alhaitham further. He reached out, placing a gentle hand on her head and patting it with a reassuring touch.

“I’ll make time for you once this whole crisis is resolved,” he said, his tone softening. “We can go through some simpler books together then.”

It was a surprise that Alhaitham kept his promise, even now as the Acting Grand Sage. The House of Daena was quiet, the kind of serene stillness that only seemed to magnify the day’s unusual tranquility. The Traveler had left earlier, accompanied by Kaveh, leaving Paimon behind with Alhaitham.

“Do you ever stop floating? Sit.”

Alhaitham instructed, his tone firm but not unkind. He held a fairytale book in one hand, gesturing for Paimon to perch on his thigh. With a reluctant sigh, Paimon settled down, and Alhaitham positioned the book so she could read aloud.

What began as a slightly awkward interaction soon turned more comfortable. Paimon became increasingly at ease, asking Alhaitham for the definitions of unfamiliar words, while Alhaitham responded with patient explanations. The session, though unfamiliar, seemed to form a bond of understanding between them.

Just then, the entrance to the room creaked open, drawing Alhaitham’s attention. The sight of you walking towards them was a delightful distraction, though it did not disrupt the reading session.

Alhaitham’s gaze softened as he saw you approaching, and his lips curled into a gentle smile. He subtly gestured for Paimon to rouse from her reading, and with a tender tug of your hand, he pulled you closer. He pressed a sweet kiss to your forehead, nuzzling into your hair with affectionate ease.

Paimon’s eyes widened in shock at the display of public affection. Was this the same Alhaitham? Did he really have a softer side for someone? Her surprise was palpable.

“Paimon didn’t know you were with Anon out of everybody, Alhaitham! Paimon always thought you were a loner…"

Before Paimon could insult Alhaitham any further, you confirmed that the bags you carried were filled with snacks, Paimon’s curiosity and excitement got the better of her. She floated eagerly to the nearest table and began devouring the treats.

Alhaitham, however, remained steadfast in his affection. He refused to let go, his chin resting comfortably atop your head as he watched Paimon from across the room.

“Stay with us until the Traveler comes back, Anon?” he asked softly, his voice carrying a hint of longing as he kept you close.