[ hasn't it always been like this? kaveh asks without ever asking; alhaitham offers without ever offering. but the scoop of the book into alhaitham's hands is like the ring of a bell, the chime of a clock at midnight.

kaveh looks, and, because he is kaveh, allows a wry smile to creep up along the corners of his lips. he stands as well. the last clip is pressed and twisted into the back of his hair, and with whatever pent-up energy that has been dispelled in the last five minutes, he stretches up to his tip-toes. ]

Hah! I was wondering when you'll invite me to take a look. I'd like to see what you have, or rather, haven't done with the place. [ it's natural to do so. kaveh slides in next to alhaitham, step-for-step. the elevators are fifteen paces away. ] Do you even know which exposure you have? Forget it, I'll take a look myself.