I’ve written stories were the basic premise boils down to Kaveh thinking Nilou and Al-Haitham are destined to be together, but they sort of both get a crush on him. Every time, it’s only been Haikaveh with Nilou being chill with that and more of “if he breaks your heart, I call dibs on being your second choice”
But I was thinking about it, and I realized that I do ship the three of them. Y’know, polymary. And I just want to explain what I think their dynamics would be like and sort of my reasoning, mayhaps?
Al-Haitham and Kaveh are kind of just canon, so I won’t be justifying this one
Kaveh and Nilou is really my starting point. First, obviously, they’re both artists. They have an appreciation for the arts, in that regard. Kaveh canonically plays instruments, so he could play while she dances. Nilou does paper-folding, so there’s that.
Secondly, Al-Haitham probably isn’t physically affectionate, but I know these two most definitely are. They would get their need for cuddles and skin-to-skin contact through each other
Nilou would always be there to help Kaveh calm down and problem-solve. Kaveh would definitely stand up to anyone who’s upsetting Nilou because he just the sort of person who does the most for those he cares about even if he treats himself like shit. And while Kaveh has some disbelief when Al-Haitham is kind to him, he just accepts Nilou’s kindness because he knows that’s how she is
Nilou and Al-Haitham would be a lot calmer. They would have pleasant conversation, not necessarily debates but just insights into common stuff like weather and people. Nilou canonically isn’t afraid to ask Al-Haitham questions or subtly doubt him. Nilou could definitely help Al-Haitham understand emotions
And really, you could consider them to be less in love with each and more friendly/respectful because they both love Kaveh
As for how they work as a trio, Nilou often plays mediator between them when their debates get too intense. Al-Haitham and Nilou know how to cheer Kaveh up and get him to take care of himself. Al-Haitham and Kaveh help Nilou feel appreciated and like more than a silly dancer
It’d be cute. Super wholesome. I might write a fic with them. I don’t know yet