Archive of Our Own ^omega

Chapter Text

The sirens wailed through the stormy night as the ambulance pulled up to the scene, lights flashing in a blur of red and blue. Felix lay limp in Hyunjin’s arms, his breathing shallow, his body barely moving as the paramedics rushed toward them. Hyunjin’s grip tightened on Felix’s hand, unwilling to let go, even as the medics pushed closer, trying to pry him away.

“Please,” Hyunjin whispered, his voice breaking, as the paramedics gently took Felix from him. “Please, take care of him.”

Chan stood frozen, his heart pounding in his chest as he watched the paramedics place Felix on the gurney, strapping him in and securing his neck to keep him still. Felix’s pale face was streaked with rain, tears, and dirt, and he whimpered softly, his eyes fluttering open only to close again as he drifted in and out of consciousness.

The pack watched in silence, their hearts in their throats. Felix’s injuries were worse than they had feared, and the sight of him being wheeled away from them felt like a knife twisting in their guts.

Chan took a step forward, his eyes never leaving Felix as he was lifted into the ambulance. He could hear Felix whimpering, his body instinctively reaching out as his hand tried to grab hold of something—someone.

“Hyunjin…” Felix’s weak voice reached Chan’s ears, but a police officer was holding back Hyunjin, his face twisted in anguish as he tried to push forward.

“Let me go to him!” Hyunjin pleaded, his voice shaking as he cried, but the officer stood firm, keeping him back.

Chan growled softly, the primal need to protect Felix clawing at him. He wanted nothing more than to rush to Felix’s side, to be there for him when he woke up, to let him know he wasn’t alone. But another officer stepped in front of him and Changbin, holding up his hands to stop them.

“Step back,” the officer ordered, his voice firm. “You can’t go with him.”

Chan’s wolf bristled, a low growl rumbling in his chest, but he forced himself to take a deep breath, trying to stay calm. His eyes darted between Felix and the officer, the frustration building inside him as he explained, “Listen, Felix’s father… he’s the reason Felix is like this. He’s been abusing him. We–we had to stop him.”

The officer’s eyes narrowed, glancing over at Felix’s father, who lay on the ground, bloody and unconscious from where Chan and Changbin had left him. “You two were involved in that?”

Chan nodded, his fists clenched tightly at his sides. “Yes, we had to stop him from hurting Felix any further. He was strangling him. He’s not Felix’s alpha anymore–I am.”

The officer raised an eyebrow, clearly considering the situation. “You’re claiming him as your pack member? Is that what this is?”

Chan immediately understood what the officer was getting at. It was about the law–about whether Chan had the right to intervene in what had originally been Felix’s father’s pack. Without hesitation, Chan nodded. “Yes. I’m becoming his pack alpha the second he’s strong enough. Felix is ours. We’re his pack.”

The officer studied him for a moment, his expression unreadable. Finally, he relented with a sigh. “Alright. The rest of your pack will have to follow behind in your own vehicle, but you–” He pointed to Chan. “You can go with him in the ambulance.”

Changbin, standing just behind Chan, gave him a firm push forward, his expression serious but filled with support. “Go. We’ll handle everything here.”

Chan looked at Changbin, nodding, the weight of responsibility pressing heavy on his shoulders. He met Hyunjin’s tearful gaze, seeing the desperation and relief in his eyes. With a single nod, Chan silently promised Hyunjin he would take care of Felix. That everything would be alright.

Hyunjin gave a shaky nod in return, his fists clenched at his sides as the officer continued to hold him back. “Take care of him,” Hyunjin whispered, his voice barely audible over the rain.

With one last look at his pack, Chan turned and climbed into the ambulance after Felix. The doors slammed shut behind him, cutting off the chaos of the night outside. Inside the ambulance, everything felt cold and sterile, the beeping of machines and the shuffling of the paramedics the only sounds left.

Chan sat beside Felix, his heart aching at the sight of his younger packmate lying so still on the gurney. The paramedics were working quickly, assessing his injuries, hooking him up to an IV and checking his vitals. Felix’s breaths were shallow, his skin pale and cold as the rainwater dripped from his clothes.

One of the paramedics glanced at Chan. “You can hold his hand if you want. Might help him feel more grounded.”

Without a second thought, Chan reached out, grabbing Felix’s hand and squeezing it gently. Felix stirred at the touch, his head turning slightly as his fingers weakly gripped Chan’s in return.

“Chris…?” Felix’s voice was barely a whisper, so weak and fragile it nearly broke Chan’s heart.

“I’m here, Felix,” Chan said softly, leaning closer as he gently squeezed Felix’s hand again. “I’m right here. You’re safe now. The rest of the pack is right behind us.”

Felix let out a soft hum, his body relaxing at the sound of Chan’s voice. As the ambulance sped through the storm, Chan kept his grip on Felix’s hand, never letting go.

–

The meeting room was quiet, the weight of the discussion still hanging heavily in the air. Chan sat beside Changbin, his fists clenched on the table, the tension in his body refusing to dissipate. It had been 2 weeks since the crash, but the anxiety that had settled deep inside him hadn’t left. Felix was back home, but everything still felt precarious. The memory of Felix’s broken body, the bruises, the way he’d reached out for them in his unconscious state—those images haunted him.

Across the table, JYP sat with a few lawyers and managers, flipping through the legal documents that had been processed over the past few days. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, JYP spoke.

“Chan,” he said, his voice low but firm. “I understand how important this is for you. For all of you. Felix should have been in the pack much sooner. What happened wasn’t your fault, but I understand your point.” He paused, glancing over at the lawyers before continuing. “You’re right. Keeping Felix outside of the pack was a mistake. So I’m giving you the green light. Bring him into the pack now–officially. I won’t stand in your way.”

Chan let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding. “Thank you,” he said. “This is what we need. What he needs. I’m not letting anything happen to him ever again.”

Changbin, sitting beside him, gave a firm nod of agreement. His face was set in the same determination as Chan’s. “He’s been through enough. This needs to happen.”

JYP leaned back in his chair, his expression softening just slightly. “We’ve already handled the legal side of things,” he said, motioning toward the lawyers at the table. “Felix is no longer part of his father’s pack. Legally, there’s no way his father can claim him anymore. Felix is free. And now that he’s back in Korea, you can do what you need to do to settle the pack bond.”

Chan’s shoulders sagged with relief. The thought of Felix being tied to his father had gnawed at him, keeping him awake at night. But now, knowing that Felix was truly free—legally and soon, emotionally—felt like a massive weight lifting from his chest.

“Thank you,” Chan said, his voice filled with gratitude. “We’ll take care of the rest.”

JYP nodded. “There’s one more thing. The pack will be going on hiatus while Felix recovers. This will give you all the time you need to settle the pack bond. No schedules, no distractions. Just focus on him, on yourselves.”

Both Chan and Changbin nodded in agreement, the relief palpable between them. It was the right decision. Felix needed time to heal—physically and emotionally—and so did the rest of the pack. The bond they had been working toward for so long was more important than any performance or event.

“Thank you for understanding,” Changbin said quietly, his voice thick with emotion. “He needs this.”

After a few more formalities, the meeting concluded. Chan and Changbin stood up, offering their thanks before heading out of the conference room. The tension in Chan’s body began to ease slightly now that they had the green light to move forward with the pack initiation.

As they walked down the hallway, the weight of the situation settled between them, but this time it felt lighter—like they were finally moving in the right direction.

“Felix will finally be safe,” Changbin said quietly as they made their way to the elevator. His voice held a mix of relief and determination.

“He’ll be part of us,” Chan responded, his gaze focused ahead. “No one’s ever going to touch him again. Not his father, not anyone.”

They rode the elevator in silence for a moment before Chan turned to Changbin. “We should head to the store,” he said, his voice soft but firm. “We need to get everything ready for the pack initiation.”

Changbin nodded. “It has to be perfect. He deserves that.”

They made their way outside, the weight of the past week still lingering, but there was a new sense of hope. Felix was safe, back home, and soon, he’d be part of their pack—truly and officially. The bond that had been forming between them all would finally be complete.

As they drove to the store, Chan’s mind wandered to Felix, back home resting. The image of him, bandaged and bruised, flashed through his mind. Four broken ribs, a broken leg, and severe dehydration—Felix had barely survived. His wrists were raw from the ropes his father had tied him with, and the bruises on the back of his neck, left from his father’s cruel scruffing, were still healing.

But Felix was strong. And Chan knew that, with time, Felix would heal. He would be surrounded by his pack, by the people who loved him. And soon, they would officially bring him into the family that had always been his.

–

The movie played softly in the background, the warm glow of the TV casting faint shadows across the living room. Seungmin glanced over to his side, where Jisung had fallen asleep mid-movie, curled up in the corner of the couch. A soft smile tugged at Seungmin’s lips as he gently shook his head. Typical, he thought, Jisung always managed to fall asleep no matter the situation.

Seungmin shifted on the couch, his mind wandering. They had all been on edge since Felix had returned home, and even with Jisung asleep beside him, Seungmin found it hard to relax. His thoughts kept drifting to Felix, wondering how he was doing. They had cleared out Felix and Seungmin’s room, turning it into a giant nest over the past week—pillows, blankets, and comforters piled together so that the pack could stay close to Felix while he healed. It was their way of being together, of making sure Felix never felt alone. They hadn’t left him for a second since he’d been brought home from the hospital.

Seungmin gently climbed off the couch, careful not to wake Jisung, and made his way toward the nest. The room was dim, but he could make out the shaped of Felix and Jeongin nestled together. Felix was sound asleep, his face peaceful, his body curled up under a thick blanket. Jeongin was pressed against his side, cuddling him protectively, his arm draped gently over Felix’s chest. The sight warmed Seungmin’s heart, a small sense of relief settling in as he watched them.

On the bed just beside the nest sat Hyunjin, his knees pulled up to his chest, his arms wrapped around them. He watched Felix and Jeongin with a distant, exhausted expression, his worry and fear clearly weighing on him.

Seungmin quietly walked over and sat down beside him, knocking their shoulders together in a gentle gesture of comfort. Hyunjin blinked, turning his gaze toward Seungmin, offering a small, weary smile.

“How’s Felix doing?” Seungmin asked softly, keeping his voice low so as not to disturb the others.

Hyunjin sighed, running a hand through his hair. “He’s fine now,” he said, his voice rough from exhaustion. “He had a bad nightmare earlier, but he’s been resting better since then.”

Seungmin nodded, his eyes flicking over to Felix again. He had heard about the nightmares, the moments when Felix would wake up panicked and disoriented, still lost in the memories of what had happened to him. It made Seungmin’s heart ache to think about the fear Felix had been living with.

Hyunjin exhaled, his shoulders slumping. He looked utterly exhausted, the weight of the past week clearly pressing down on him. Seungmin frowned and leaned in slightly, his gaze softening as he asked, “And how are you?”

Hyunjin’s tired smile faltered for a moment, and Seungmin could see the cracks in his facade. “I’m…” Hyunjin began, but his voice wavered. His hand trembled slightly as he ran it through his hair again, as though trying to ground himself. “I’m worried. I’m… so heartbroken for him, Seungmin.”

Seungmin stayed quiet, letting Hyunjin speak at his own pace.

“He’s been treated like this for so long,” Hyunjin continued, his voice breaking slightly. “His father… he’s always treated him like this, and Felix didn’t say anything. He didn’t tell us, not even me.” Hyunjin’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears, his chest heaving slightly as he tried to keep his emotions in check. “I should have known. I should have noticed something. But I didn’t.”

The tears finally spilled over, and Hyunjin’s shoulders shook as he tried to stifle the sobs that were escaping him. Seungmin pulled Hyunjin into a tight hug, his arms wrapping around him firmly, offering all the comfort.

“It’s not your fault,” Seungmin whispered, his voice gentle but steady. “You couldn’t have known. Felix didn’t want us to see how bad it was. But he’s with us now. He’s safe.”

Hyunjin clung to Seungmin, burying his face in his packmates shoulder as the sobs finally broke free. Seungmin held him close, rubbing soothing circles on his back as he whispered soft words of comfort, his heart aching for both Hyunjin and Felix. “We’re going to take care of him, all of us. You’re doing everything right, Hyunjin.”

After a few minutes, Hyunjin’s sobs began to quiet, though he still trembled in Seungmin’s arms. Seungmin pulled back slightly, looking at Hyunjin with a soft smile. “You need sleep,” Seungmin said, his tone gentle but firm.

Hyunjin shook his head slightly, wiping his eyes. “I can’t… I need to stay with him.”

“You’ll be with him, don’t worry,” Seungmin assured him, gently pulling him up. He guided Hyunjin over to the nest, where Felix and Jeongin were already asleep. “Come on. You need to rest too.”

Hyunjin hesitated for a moment, but the exhaustion finally caught up to him. He gave Seungmin a grateful smile and crawled into the nest, carefully adjusting Felix so that he was cuddled up against him. Felix shifted slightly in his sleep, instinctively curling into Hyunjin’s warmth.

Seungmin watched them for a moment, a fond smile tugging at his lips. He moved to stand up, but Hyunjin reached out, grabbing his wrist with a small, tired laugh. “You’re not going anywhere. Get in here.”

Seungmin laughed, rolling his eyes. “I was just going to—”

“Don’t care,” Hyunjin interrupted with a small smile, tugging Seungmin down into the nest. “You’re a part of this too.”

Seungmin laughed softly as he gave in, lying down beside them. Hyunjin pulled a blanket over them, his hand resting protectively on Felix’s side as he settled in. Seungmin sighed in contentment as he made himself comfortable, the warmth of the nest and the presence of his pack finally allowing him to relax.

Hyunjin let out a sigh, already starting to drift off. “Thanks, Seungmin,” he murmured, his voice slurred with sleep.

Seungmin smiled softly, closing his eyes. “Anytime.”

–

Minho stirred awake in the nest, his body warm and uncomfortable beneath the layers of blankets that had been piled up for the past weeks. The room was dim, the soft light of early morning barely peeking through the curtains, and the familiar scents of his packmates surrounded him, filing him with a sense of calm.

He blinked, adjusting to the dark, and glanced around at the others still curled up beside him. Jisung was cuddled against his side, his face buried in Minho’s chest, his soft snores muffled by the blanket. Minho couldn’t help but smile at the sight. On the other side of the nest, Changbin and Seungmin were pressed up against each other, their heads resting on the same pillow. Jeongin was laid out beside Chan, just close enough for him to be touching the pack alpha, and nothing more.

His gaze drifted further, and that’s when he noticed Hyunjin, lying on his side, hugging a pillow in his sleep. Hyunjin’s arms were wrapped tightly around it, his face half-buried in the fabric, as if he were searching for something—or someone.

Felix.

Minho frowned, his eyes scanning the room, but Felix wasn’t there. A flicker of worry settled in his chest. Felix should have been in the nest with the rest of them. He hadn’t been strong enough to be wandering around on his own.

Carefully, Minho untangled himself from Jisung and the blankets, making sure not to disturb anyone as he climbed out of the nest. His bare feet padded softly across the floor as he made his way toward the hallway, his ears straining for any sign of Felix.

Just as he neared the kitchen, he heard a loud crash—followed by the unmistakable sound of shattered glass hitting the floor.

Minho’s heart leapt in his chest as he rushed forward, his instincts flaring up as he rounded the corner into the kitchen. There, in the dim light, he saw Felix crouched on the ground, trying to clean up the broken pieces of a plate that had fallen from the counter. His hands trembled, and soft, shaky sobs escaped him as he clumsily picked up the shards of glass.

“Yongbok,” Minho said softly, stepping closer as he crouched beside him. Felix flinched slightly at the sound, his shoulders tensing as if he hadn’t realized Minho was there.

“I–I’m sorry,” Felix choked out between sobs, his voice thick with guilt. “I tripped, and I knocked it off the counter. I’m so sorry, hyung. I didn’t mean to break it.”

Minho’s heart clenched at the sight of Felix, his normally bright and cheerful packmate reduced to a trembling, apologetic mess. He reached out, gently placing a hand on Felix’s shoulder. “Hey, it’s okay. It’s just a plate. You don’t have to apologize.”

Felix shook his head, his fingers fumbling as he tried to gather the pieces of glass. “No, I should’ve been more careful. I didn’t want to wake anyone up, I just–” His voice broke, and another sob escaped him. “I don’t like that everyone has to take care of me all the time. I’m not worth all this trouble.”

Minho’s chest tightened at the words, and he gently grabbed Felix’s wrists, stopping him from picking up the glass. “Yongbok,” he said firmly, his voice gentle but unwavering. “You’re always worth it. Always.”

Felix looked up, his eyes red and brimming with tears. His lip quivered as he tried to hold back another cry. “I’m just… I feel like a burden. I hate that I’m so weak.”

“You’re not a burden,” Minho said, his tone soft but filled with conviction. “You’re our packmate. We take care of each other, no matter what. And you’re not weak. You’ve been through hell, and you’re still here. That’s strength.”

Felix sniffled, his gaze dropping to the floor as he tried to process Minho’s words. “But… I just feel like I’m making everything harder for everyone. I’m not even a packmember.”

Minho shook his head, squeezing Felix’s wrist gently. “You’re not making anything harder. You don’t need to do everything on your own, Yongbok. That’s what we’re here for. You’re never a burden. You’re part of this pack, and you’re worth everything. Don’t ever think otherwise.”

Felix blinked, the tears still falling, but a small, grateful smile tugged at the corners of his lips. “Thanks, hyung,” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Minho smiled back, giving Felix’s shoulder a reassuring squeeze. “Come on, let’s clean this up together.”

They worked side by side, picking up the shattered pieces of the plate carefully, Felix’s hands steadying as Minho helped. Once the last piece was thrown away, Minho turned to Felix and gave him a gentle nudge. “Alright, let’s get you back to the nest.”

Felix hesitated for a moment but nodded, the exhaustion starting to settle back into his bones. Minho gently guided him back toward the nest, making sure Felix leaned on him for support. When they reached the nest, Minho helped Felix climb back in, watching as Felix settled beside Hyunjin, who was still clutching his pillow.

Hyunjin stirred slightly, his arms automatically wrapping around Felix instead of the pillow, pulling him close in his sleep. Felix let out a soft sigh, his body relaxing as he curled up against Hyunjin, the weight of his earlier frustration fading away.

He climbed into the nest, bringing Han closer to him as he settled by Felix and Hyunjin as they all snuggled back into the warmth of their shared space. Felix hummed in contentment, his eyes fluttering shut as Minho draped a blanket over them all.

–

Minho stood by the stove, stirring the pot of stew he’d been working on, the rich smell of dinner filling the air. The kitchen was warm, and the rhythmic clinking of the wooden spoon against the pot had become almost soothing as he let his mind drift. He could hear the faint sounds of the pack moving around the house, some lounging in the living room while others rested in the nest they had set up for Felix in the corner.

The past two weeks had been a whirlwind of emotions and healing. Felix had returned home from the hospital battered and bruised but safe. Minho’s heart still ached every time he thought about it—Felix’s injuries, the way he had been treated, the nightmares that continued to haunt him—but knowing Felix was here, surrounded by his pack, was a relief he clung to.

Just as he finished seasoning the stew, the door to the kitchen swung open, and Chan and Changbin walked in, their arms full of bags from their shopping trip. The sight of them made Minho raise an eyebrow, a slight smirk tugging at his lips.

“Well, look who’s back,” Minho said, wiping his hands on a dish towel as he turned to face them. “Did you buy out the entire store, or?”

Chan grinned, though there was a certain tiredness in his eyes that had become more common lately. He set down his bags on the counter, looking over at Minho with a mixture of excitement and seriousness. “Maybe,” he joked lightly. “But really, we want to make this perfect for Felix.”

Minho’s smirk softened into something more thoughtful as he looked between the two of them, eyeing the bags with curiosity. “Have you even asked Felix yet?” he asked, quirking an eyebrow at Chan.

Chan shook his head, his smile fading into something more solemn. “Not yet. I want us to all work together and make everything perfect first. I want it to be… special. Something that makes him feel safe, loved. Something that makes him feel like he’s really, truly part of us. Officially.”

Minho nodded, the weight of Chan’s words settling over him. He understood what this meant to Chan and to the entire pack. Felix’s initiation had been delayed for too long, and what had happened because of that delay had been nothing short of a nightmare. But now, they had a chance to do it right—to give Felix the love and security he deserved.

Minho glanced down at the bags filled with various items, no doubt intended for the upcoming pack initiation. He smiled softly, appreciating how much thought Chan had put into this. “I’m sure Felix will love it,” Minho said quietly, his voice filled with sincerity.

Chan smiled back, though there was still that lingering weariness in his eyes. “I hope so,” he said softly, his gaze drifting toward the living room where Felix was resting. “We just need to make sure everything is perfect.”

Minho gave a small nod, understanding the pressure Chan was putting on himself. He watched as Chan picked up the bags again, taking the ones Changbin held as well. “I’ll put these away for now,” Chan said, his voice lighter. “I’ll talk to the rest of the pack tonight.”

As Chan left the kitchen, Minho turned his gaze to Changbin, who had been unusually quiet during the exchange. He raised an eyebrow, folding his arms over his chest. “You’re surprisingly quiet. Did Chan leave you speechless with the amount of money he spent, or are you just hungry?”

Changbin chuckled, shaking his head as he leaned against the counter. “A bit of both,” he admitted. “It’s been a lot, this whole thing. But I’m glad we’re finally moving forward with Felix’s initiation.”

Minho nodded. “We all are,” he said. “It’s long overdue.”

He glanced toward the doorway leading to the living room, where the rest of the pack was waiting. With a small smile, Minho turned back to Changbin. “Could you gather everyone for dinner? The stew’s ready.”

Changbin pushed himself off the counter, giving Minho a playful nudge as he walked past. “Sure thing, chef.”

–

The room was dimly lit, the only source of light coming from the moon outside and the soft glow of a nightlight they had left on for Felix. Changbin sat up in the nest, his back propped against a pillow as he gently stroked Felix’s hair. The younger boy was curled up against his side, sleeping soundly for the first time in days. The rest of the pack had quietly snuck out of the room, working with Chan on Felix’s new initiation nest, leaving Changbin behind to watch over him.

Changbin didn’t mind. He was never particularly good at making nests—he could never get the layers right or make it feel as cozy as the others did—so he was more than happy to stay back with Felix. The warmth of the younger boy pressed against him was comforting in a way Changbin couldn’t describe. Felix had been through so much, and the thought of anything else happening to him made Changbin’s chest ache with a mixture of protectiveness and anger.

As he brushed a stray piece of hair away from Felix’s face, his fingers grazed over the bruise that still painted the side of Felix’s jaw. The deep purple and blue bruising had begun to fade, but it was still a stark reminder of what Felix had been through.

His father had kicked him. That’s what Felix had told them, his voice quiet as he recounted what had happened. The memory made Changbin’s jaw clench, and he had to force himself to suppress the growl that rose in his throat. The anger he felt toward Felix’s father was overwhelming at times, but he knew it wouldn’t help Felix. What Felix needed now was comfort and love—not anger.

Changbin took a deep breath, leaning back against the pillow and closing his eyes. The quiet of the room was soothing, the soft sound of Felix’s breathing calming how own nerves. He let himself relax for a moment, drifting off into a light sleep.

But it wasn’t long before he was jolted awake by the sounds of Felix whimpering beside him. Changbin’s eyes snapped open, and he looked down to see Felix thrashing slightly in his sleep, his face twisted in distress. His breathing had become erratic, and soft, desperate words escaped his lips. ”Please… stop… don’t…”

Changbin’s heart lurched, his instincts kicking in immediately. Without hesitation, he gathered Felix into his lap, pulling the younger boy close to his chest. Felix struggled against his hold, his body tense and shaking as the nightmare gripped him. Changbin buried his face in Felix’s neck, scenting him heavily in an attempt to ground him.

“Shh, Felix,” Changbin whispered softly, his voice filled with gentle reassurance. “It’s okay. You’re safe. I’m right here. No one’s going to hurt you.”

Felix continued to thrash for a moment, his hands weakly pushing against Changbin’s chest as if trying to escape the nightmare that still clung to him. But Changbin held him firmly, his hands rubbing soothing circles on Felix’s back as he continued to whisper reassurances into his ear.

Slowly, Felix’s body began to relax in his arms, the tension easing as Changbin’s scent and words finally broke through the haze of his nightmare. His whimpers quieted, and his breathing evened out as he settled back into a deeper sleep.

Changbin sighed in relief, his own body sagging with the weight of the moment. He held Felix close for a while longer, making sure the younger boy was truly asleep before gently laying him back down in the nest.

Once he was sure Felix was resting peacefully again, Changbin leaned back and tugged on the pack bond, calling out to the others. It wasn’t long before they arrived, moving quickly and quietly into the room. Chan was the first to reach him, his expression filled with concern.

“What’s wrong?” Chan whispered, his eyes scanning Felix’s sleeping form.

“He had a nightmare,” Changbin explained softly, his voice heavy with the lingering worry that still sat in his chest. “He was struggling really bad. I—” Changbin hesitated for a moment before lowering his voice. “I need you all here. In the nest. Please.”

The others exchanged glances, a few of them beginning to protest. Seungmin started to say something about finishing the nest, but the quiet, vulnerable tone in Changbin’s voice made them pause.

“Please,” Changbin whispered, his eyes filled with emotion. “I just… I want us all to be here. With him.”

The pack softened at his words, their protests fading away. They could see how much this was affecting Changbin, how much he needed the pack’s presence just as much as Felix did. Without another word, they all began to pile into the nest, finding ways to curl up around each other without disturbing Felix.

Chan settled in beside Changbin, his hand resting on Felix’s arm as he gave Changbin a small, reassuring smile. Hyunjin lay down on Felix’s other side, gently draping his arm over Felix’s waist. Seungmin, Jisung, and Jeongin all found spots around them, making sure everyone was touching someone, their presence a tangible comfort in the quiet of the night.

With a contented hum, changbin leaned back against the pillows, letting himself be enveloped by the warmth and safety of the pack. He closed his eyes, a small smile tugging at his lips as he drifted back into sleep, knowing that they were all where they needed to be—together.

–

The day they brought Felix home felt like a dream, but not the kind of dream any of them had wanted. Felix was fragile, his body bruised and broken, and though he had physically made it through, the emotional scars seemed just as deep, if not worse. He hadn’t spoken much since waking up in the hospital, only seeking the quiet comfort of his pack, leaning on them silently when his words failed.

When they finally walked through the door of their home, the atmosphere was both warm and heavy, everyone on edge but trying not to show it for Felix’s sake. Hyunjin, who had stayed close to Felix the entire time, noticed the younger boy’s exhaustion. Felix clung to Hyunjin’s side, his eyes half-lidded with exhaustion.

“Hey,” Hyunjin said softly, his voice cutting through the tension as they stood in the entryway. “How about we get you a bath, hm? Might help you feel better.”

Felix nodded slowly, not speaking, but he leaned into Hyunjin’s side just a little more. Hyunjin gave him a soft smile, squeezing his hand reassuringly as he guided Felix toward the bathroom. The rest of the pack quietly lingered, giving them space but ready to help if needed.

Once in the bathroom, Hyunjin began running the water, adjusting the temperature until it was just right. The soft sound of the bath filling the tub was comforting, almost grounding and Hyunjin looked over at Felix as he just stood there, lost in his own thoughts. He knew this was difficult—Felix hadn’t been able to do much for himself, his cast and injuries making everything more of a challenge. Hyunjin could see the fatigue in Felix’s eyes, how much he was struggling to hold on.

“Let me help you,” Hyunjin murmured gently, moving to help Felix undress.

Felix hesitated for a brief second before nodding, his hands weakly working on his shirt. Hyunjin stepped in, carefully helping him out of his clothes, his movements slow and mindful of his injuries. But when Felix’s shirt finally came off, Hyunjin couldn’t help the sharp intake of breath at the sight of the bruises covering Felix’s torso. Dark patches of purple and blue littered his pale skin, the remnants of the abuse Felix had endured.

Felix’s breath caught as well, his body tensing. He didn’t look at Hyunjin, his eyes fixed on the floor, as if he were ashamed.

Hyunjin pressed himself gently against Felix’s back, wrapping his arms around Felix’s waist. He buried his face in Felix’s neck, whispering softly into his ear. “You’re so beautiful, Felix,” Hyunjin murmured, his voice filled with quiet reverence. He pressed soft, tender kisses along Felix’s jaw and neck, trying to soothe him, to remind him of the love that surrounded him.

But when Hyunjin’s lips reached the area where the bite marks marred Felix’s skin—marks left behind by that man—Felix flinched back instinctively, his body trembling.

Hyunjin immediately backed off, his heart sinking as he watched Felix’s shoulders shake. He didn’t want to hurt him, didn’t want to remind him of that nightmare. But before Hyunjin could pull away completely, Felix let out a soft whine, his hand reaching out to stop him from retreating.

“I’m sorry,” Felix said softly, his voice rough from lack of use.

“Shh,” Hyunjin soothed, stepping back in and wrapping his arms around Felix once more. “Don’t apologize. It’s okay. I’m here.”

Felix nodded, his body still tense but trusting as Hyunjin helped him step into the warm bath. Hyunjin’s hands were gentle as he eased Felix down into the water, mindful of his cast and injuries. Once Felix was settled, Hyunjin knelt beside the tub, dipping a washcloth into the water and running it gently over Felix’s skin.

Felix remained quiet throughout the bath, his eyes distant as Hyunjin worked. Hyunjin kept his touch soft, knowing how fragile Felix felt. He took his time washing Felix’s hair, untangling the knots gently, massaging his scalp in a soothing rhythm. Felix let his eyes close, the soft hum of Hyunjin’s attention grounding him, but the quiet sadness in the air still lingered.

When they were done, Hyunjin carefully wrapped Felix in a towel, patting him dry with tender care. He guided Felix to his room, pulling out a pair of Hyunjin’s clothes and helping him dress. Felix let him do everything, his body limp with exhaustion and something deeper—something Hyunjin couldn’t put into words.

Once Felix was dressed, Hyunjin helped him into bed, pulling the covers over him before slipping in beside him. He immediately pulled Felix into his arms, holding him close, his chest pressed against Felix’s back. He wanted to protect him from everything, to make all the pain go away, but for now, all he could do was be there.

For a while, Felix remained silent. But after a few minutes, Felix’s voice broke the quiet, soft and trembling.

“He was going to sell me,” Felix whispered, his voice filled with pain.

Hyunjin’s heart stopped. He felt a wave of nausea wash over him, but he forced himself to stay calm, to listen. “What?” he asked quietly, his voice barely a breath.

Felix shivered slightly. “He was going to sell me,” Felix repeated, his voice cracking. “He said I was… he said I was going to be sold to have pups.”

Hyunjin felt his chest tighten, his breath catching in his throat. He didn’t know what to say, the horror of Felix’s words sinking in like a knife to the gut. Felix started crying softly, his body trembling as the tears flowed freely now. Hyunjin couldn’t stay still any longer, he gently turned Felix around so that he was facing him, cupping his face in his hands.

“Yongbokkie…” Hyunjin whispered, his heart breaking at the sight of Felix’s tears. He pulled him closer, letting Felix bury his face in his chest as he cried, his sobs quiet but filled with so much pain.

Hyunjin held him tightly, his hand gently rubbing circles on Felix’s back as he cried. “You’re safe now,” Hyunjin murmured softly, his voice thick with unshed tears. “I’ve got you. You’re never going back there. I promise.”

After a few minutes, Felix’s sobs began to quiet, though his body still trembled with the aftershocks of his emotions. He pulled back slightly, looking up at Hyunjin with tear-streaked cheeks and red eyes. “Why would he do that?” Felix whispered, his voice barely a breath. “Why would he… why would he sell me? I’m his son. He’s supposed to love me.”

Hyunjin’s heart shattered at the question, and he wished more than anything that he had an answer. But he didn’t. He couldn’t make sense of the cruelty Felix had endured, and he knew there were no words that could make it better.

“I don’t know,” Hyunjin whispered, his voice filled with quiet sorrow. He leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to Felix’s forehead, his heart aching with the weight of it all. “But you’re loved here. I promise you that.”

Felix nodded, his tears slowing as he leaned into Hyunjin’s touch, seeking comfort in the warmth and safety of his boyfriend's arms. Hyunjin held him close, letting his scent wash over Felix, grounding him in the present, in safety.

For a long time, they stayed like that—Hyunjin holding Felix close, letting him relax into Hyunjin’s warmth. Eventually, the exhaustion caught up to both of them, and their breathing slowed as sleep began to claim them.

Hyunjin’s arms remained securely around Felix, his heart full of quiet determination. No matter what happened, Felix would never have to question his worth again. He would be surrounded by love, by safety, by the pack that cherished him. And Hyunjin would be there every step of the way.

As they both drifted off to sleep, Hyunjin pressed one last kiss to Felix’s temple, whispering softly, “You’re safe now. Always.”

–

The morning light streamed softly through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. Hyunjin stirred first, blinking as his eyes adjusted to the light. Felix was nestled against him, his breathing soft and even, but Hyunjin could feel the slight shift in Felix’s body, signaling that he was beginning to wake as well.

Felix slowly opened his eyes, blinking up at Hyunjin, who smiled gently down at him. “Good morning,” Hyunjin whispered, brushing a stray piece of hair out of Felix’s face.

Felix hummed softly in response, still half-asleep. He brushed his face against Hyunjin's chest, clearly not ready to face the day just yet. Hyunjin chuckled lightly, pressing a soft kiss to the top of Felix’s head.

“You should go back to bed,” Hyunjin murmured. “I’ll come get you when breakfast is ready. Get some rest.”

Felix grumbled in protest but reluctantly nodded. He slowly sat up, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. “Okay,” he mumbled, his voice groggy. “But only because you promise breakfast.”

Hyunjin laughed, giving him a chaste kiss before laying him back down on the bed. He quickly slipped out of the room before speed walking to Chan’s room, where they had been building the new nest the past few days.

He stood quietly at the edge of the newly completed nest, a soft smile tugging at his lips. The wope pack had worked tirelessly, creating this space as a symbol of welcome for Felix. It was more than just a nest; it was a safe haven, layered with their favorite blankets, personal items, snacks, and small gifts—each one carefully chosen to make Felix feel like he was truly home. It was their way of telling Felix he was one of them now, forever part of the pack.

Hyunjin’s eyes lingered on the six small gifts laid out in the center of the nest, each one representing a different member of their pack. They had all chosen something personal, something that symbolized their bond with Felix. Except for Hyunjin. His gift wasn’t ready yet. He needed to finish it, and for that he needed Chan’s help.

His gaze drifted toward the door as he debated whether now was the trite time to talk to Chan. After a moment of hesitation, he steeled away from the nest, seeking out Chan.

He found him in the hallway, just as he was combing back from grabbing some supplies. Hyunjin cleared his throat softly, catching Chan’s attention.

Chan looked up, his expression curious but open. He immediately noticed Hyunjin’s anxiety and nodded. “Of course. What’s up?”

Hyunjin took a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest as he fumbled in his pocked for the two small jewlery boxes he had been carrying for days. His fingers brushed against the cool velvet of the boxes, and he pulled them out, holding them in front of him for a moment before opening the first one.

Inside was a delicate necklace, a pendant of the moon on the night they debuted. It was small, subtle, but meaningful, something Felix could carry with him wherever he went. Hyunjin held out the box toward Chan, his voice soft and filled with quiet anticipation.

“This is my pack gift for Felix,” Hyunjin explained. I wanted it to be something that connects all of us together. Something he can wear to remind him that we're always with him.”

Chan smiled as he looked at the necklace, nodding in approval. “It’s perfect,” he said, his voice warm. “Felix is going to love it.”

Hyunjin’s lips twitched into a small smile, but the nervous energy in his chest still hadn’t dissipated. His fingers tightened around the second box, the one that held something far more significant than the necklace. Slowly, he opened the second box, revealing a simple but elegant ring.

Chan’s eyes flickered with surprise, and Hyunjin took a deep breath before speaking, his voice a little more unsteady than before.

“And this… this is for something else,” Hyunjin said quietly. “Felix and I… we’ve been dating for about a year now.”

Chan’s eyebrows raised slightly, but there was a glint of amusement in his eyes as he crossed his arms over his chest. “You’ve been dating for a year?” he repeated, a teasing smile tugging at his lips. “Hyunjin, you do realize we’ve all known that for a while, right?”

Hyunjin blinked. “Wait—what?”

Chan chuckled, shaking his head. “Hyunjin, your scents have practically merged. Everyone could smell it. You weren’t hiding anything.”

Hyunjin’s face flushed with embarrassment, his hands fidgeting nervously. “I—I wasn’t trying to hide it,” he stammered, clearly flustered. “I just… didn’t want to make a big deal out of it.”

Chan’s smile softened as he stepped closer, his voice turning more serious. “You and Felix are great together,” he said, his tone gentle. “We’re all happy for you.”

Hyunjin swallowed, his nerves returning as he glanced back down at the ring in his hand. “I’ve wanted to ask Felix to be my mate for a while now,” he admitted quietly. “But I needed to wait until he was officially in the pack. I wanted to ask for your permission, Hyung. You’re our alpha, and I respect that.”

Chan’s expression softened even more. He reached out, placing a hand on Hyunjin’s shoulder and giving it a reassuring squeeze. “Of course you can ask him,” Chan said, his voice steady and supportive. “But.. let’s give him some time to settle into the pack first. He’s been through a lot, and I think it’s important to let him heal and feel safe before you move forward with something as big as this.”

Hyunjin nodded quickly, relief washing over him as he finally let out the breath he’d been holding. “I agree,” he said softly. “I won’t rush it. I just… I wanted to be sure it was okay with you.”

Chan smiled warmly and pulled Hyunjin into a firm hug. “Felix is lucky to have you. And you have my full support when the time comes.”

Hyunjin returned the hug, a wave of emotion surging through him as he held onto Chan for a moment longer than usual, clutching onto his pack alpha. It felt like a weight had been lifted off his shoulders, knowing that not only did he have Chan’s permission, but the full support of the entire pack.

When they pulled away, Chan gave Hyunjin a gentle smile. “You’ve been patient, and that’s the mark of a good mate. When the time is right, Felix will be ready. You’ll both know.”
Hyunjin nodded, his heart lighter as he pocketed the boxes again. “Thank you, Chan,” he said quietly. “For everything.”

Chan smiled again, his eyes crinkling with warmth. “You’ve got this, Hyunjin. Just keep being there for him, and everything will fall into place.”

With that, Hyunjin felt a renewed sense of purpose as he made his way back toward the nest, his thoughts filled with Felix and the future they could finally start to build together—one filled with love, safety, and the unwavering bond of their pack.

“And don’t you dare fuck in the nest.”

“Chan!”

–

The first few days after Felix had been brought home had passed in a haze. Felix had barely spoken, his body and mind utterly exhausted from everything he had endured. All he really did was sleep, and the pack had let him. They knew he needed time to heal, to recover from the trauma he’d been through.

Hyunjin had stayed by Felix’s side the first night, refusing to leave. He curled up around Felix, holding him protectively, his fingers tracing soft circles on Felix’s back while he slept. But when Hyunjin woke up the next morning, he was startled by a low growl.

Jeongin stood at the door, his eyes locked onto Hyunjin with a sharp intensity. His wolf was fully in control, and the protective instincts coursing through the youngest member of the pack were clear.

"Get out," Jeongin growled, his voice low and rough, his eyes flashing yellow.

Hyunjin bristled, his grip on Felix tightening instinctively. He growled back, his own wolf rising to meet the challenge. "I’m not leaving him."

Jeongin took a step closer, his body tense, clearly ready to force Hyunjin out if he had to. The air in the room grew thick with tension, the two wolves locked in a silent standoff.

Suddenly, the door swung open, and Chan rushed into the room, having sensed the conflict. He grabbed Jeongin by the shoulders, pulling the younger boy back before things could escalate any further.

"Stop," Chan ordered firmly, his voice carrying the weight of his alpha authority. He looked down at Jeongin, his gaze softening slightly as he sighed. "Your instincts are too strong right now. I know you want to protect him, but you can’t push everyone away."

Jeongin’s eyes flickered with frustration, but he didn’t resist as Chan gently pulled him further from the bed. Hyunjin exhaled slowly, his wolf still on edge, but he knew Chan was right. Jeongin’s instincts were in overdrive, and pushing against them would only make things worse.

Hyunjin sighed, his grip on Felix loosening slightly as he relented. He glanced down at Felix, who was still fast asleep, oblivious to the tension in the room. With a heavy heart, Hyunjin slowly got up from the bed, stepping away to ease Jeongin’s protectiveness.

Jeongin immediately moved forward, his body language changing as he reached Felix’s side. He gently sat down on the bed, his hand resting protectively on Felix’s arm, his instincts calming slightly now that Hyunjin had left.

Jeongin looked up at Chan, his eyes still flashing with remnants of his wolf’s instincts. "I’m staying with him," he said stubbornly, his voice low but determined.

Chan nodded, understanding the intensity of Jeongin’s emotions. "Alright. But you can’t stay here forever," he reminded Jeongin gently. "You need to let him heal with all of us."

Jeongin didn’t respond, his focus solely on Felix as he curled up beside him, the need to protect the most vulnerable member of the pack overwhelming all other thoughts.

Over the next two days, Jeongin refused to leave Felix’s side. He kept a near-constant watch over him, only leaving the room when absolutely necessary—either to bring back food and water or to take Felix to the bathroom. It was as if Jeongin had become Felix’s shadow, and though Felix hadn’t said much, there was a small part of him that found the younger wolf’s dedication somewhat amusing.

On the second day, Felix finally broke the silence between them, his voice soft but carrying a teasing edge. "You know," Felix began, glancing at Jeongin with a small, tired smile. "You’re going to have to let me out of this room at some point."

Jeongin, who had been sitting at the foot of the bed, his eyes half-closed in a relaxed but alert state, looked up at Felix with wide, almost puppy-like eyes. He let out a soft whine, clearly distressed at the idea of leaving Felix unprotected.

Felix blinked in surprise at the sound, turning his body to fully face Jeongin. He hadn’t realized just how deeply Jeongin’s protective instincts were running. “Hey…” Felix said softly, sitting up a bit straighter despite the ache in his muscles. “What’s going on, Innie?”

Jeongin looked down, his shoulders tense. "I—I just..." He trailed off, struggling to find the words to express the turmoil inside him. "When you were taken, and I couldn’t do anything... I failed. I couldn’t protect you. And now, I don’t want to let you out of my sight."

Felix’s heart clenched at Jeongin’s words, and he reached out to gently take the younger wolf’s hand, squeezing it reassuringly. “You didn’t fail me, Jeongin,” Felix said, his voice soft but firm. “None of you did.”

Jeongin’s eyes were still filled with guilt and distress, but he nodded slowly, his hand gripping Felix’s tightly as if he were holding onto something fragile.
Felix watched him for a moment, his gaze softening with understanding. He shifted slightly, baring his neck to Jeongin, the instinctual gesture of submission and trust making Jeongin’s eyes widen in shock.

“Scent me,” Felix said quietly. “I know it’ll help calm you down.”

Jeongin froze for a second, unsure if he had heard Felix correctly. “A-Are you sure?” he asked, his voice trembling slightly.

Felix nodded. “Yeah. It’s okay, Jeongin. Go ahead.”

Hesitantly, Jeongin leaned forward, his nose brushing against Felix’s neck as he began to scent him, the familiar warmth and comfort of Felix’s scent flooding his senses. It was grounding, calming the storm of emotions swirling inside him.

When he finished, Jeongin pulled back, his eyes filled with quiet relief. Felix smiled gently, reaching out to brush a stray tear from Jeongin’s cheek. “Better?”

Jeongin nodded, his chest lighter now that the overwhelming tension had faded. “Thank you,” he whispered.

Felix chuckled softly, the sound bringing a sense of normalcy back into the room. “Now go take a shower, alright? We’ve been in here for two days.”

Jeongin let out a small, embarrassed laugh, rubbing the back of his neck. “Okay, fine,” he muttered. He glanced back at Felix before getting up. “But I’m coming right back after.”

–

Han sighed as he leaned against the edge of the couch, watching the rest of the pack darting around the room as they finalized the last details for Felix’s initiation. Everyone was buzzing with nervous energy, double-checking and overthinking every little thing to ensure everything would be perfect. He appreciated the effort—they all loved Felix so much—but it was starting to feel like too much.

He had already finished his part, and at this point, he knew all the fussing was just their way of channeling their excitement and worry. But honestly, Han would rather be with Felix, curled up together and enjoying some quiet time. His wolf was tugging at him, urging him to find Felix, so he pushed off the couch and started following the familiar, comforting scent.

It didn’t take long before Han picked up Felix’s trail, leading him to the bathroom. As he neared the door, he could hear the faint sound of water running, but something else caught his attention—Felix’s scent was tinged with something bitter and heavy. Sadness.

He furrowed his brows, his chest tightening with concern as he called out softly, “Felix?” He pushed open the bathroom door without waiting for a response.

The sight that greeted him made his heart sink. Felix was curled up on the floor, leaning against the cabinets, his knees pulled tightly to his chest. His face was damp, not just from the water running in the sink but from the tears streaking down his cheeks. He looked up at Han in surprise, quickly swiping at his face as though trying to hide the fact that he’d been crying.

“Oh, hey, Han,” Felix said quickly, his voice thick as he forced a small smile. “What do you need?”

Han’s stomach twisted at the sight of Felix trying to mask his pain. He stepped forward, immediately crouching down and cupping Felix’s face in his hands. “What’s wrong, Lixie?” Han asked softly, his eyes searching Felix’s for answers.

Felix’s lip wobbled, his facade crumbling under Han’s gentle touch. A shaky breath escaped him before he broke down completely, tears spilling over as he leaned forward, burying his face in Han’s neck. His cries were quiet but filled with so much emotion that Han couldn’t help the whine that escaped him in response.

“Hey, hey,” Han murmured, wrapping his arms around Felix and cradling him to his chest. “It’s okay, I’m here. Just let it out, okay? I’ve got you.” He buried his face in Felix’s hair, scenting him as he rocked them slightly, trying to calm him down.

It took a while, but eventually, Felix’s sobs began to quiet. Han pulled back just enough to look at him, brushing the tears from Felix’s flushed cheeks. “Talk to me, Lix,” Han said softly, his voice full of care. “What’s wrong?”

Felix hesitated, his gaze dropping to his lap as his hands twisted in the hem of his shirt. His face was still bright red, and Han could see him struggling to find the words. Gently, Han took Felix’s hands in his own, squeezing them reassuringly. “Please,” Han begged quietly. “Tell me.”

Felix’s lip wobbled again, and he finally whispered, his voice barely audible, “Why don’t you guys want me in the pack?”

Han’s world crashed around him.

For a moment, he was frozen, the weight of Felix’s words hitting him like a physical blow. His mind raced, trying to process what Felix had just said. He thinks we don’t want him? How—why— Han’s heart ached as he realized how deeply Felix must have been hurting to believe something like that.

But his silence only seemed to make things worse. Felix’s face crumpled, fresh tears spilling down his cheeks as he started to ramble. “If you don’t want me, I can leave,” Felix said, his voice trembling. “I’ve caused so much trouble already. I—I’m broken. I understand if—”

“Stop,” Han choked out, his voice breaking as he pressed his hand gently over Felix’s mouth. Tears were falling freely down Han’s own face now, and his chest felt tight with panic and heartbreak. “Felix, please, stop.”

Felix’s sobs quieted slightly, but the tears kept falling as he looked at Han with wide, broken eyes. Han whined softly, his wolf panicking as it urged him to do something—anything—to fix this.

Without thinking, Han grabbed Felix’s wrist and stood, pulling Felix up with him before bending down for Felix to crawl on his back.. “Han, what are you—”

“Shh,” Han interrupted, his voice trembling. Felix climbed on and Han held on tight as he carried him out of the bathroom and into the living room, where the rest of the pack was gathered.

The moment they entered, the room fell silent. Everyone turned to look at them, their expressions immediately shifting to concern when they saw Felix’s tear-streaked face and Han’s trembling hands.

“What’s wrong?” Chan asked, stepping forward, his eyes scanning Felix and Han for answers.
Han put Felix down, offering his shoulder to hold while standing, and Felix grabbed onto his arm. He looked at Felix, his heart breaking all over again. His voice was soft but firm as he said, “Tell them what you told me.”

Felix hesitated, his hands trembling as he clung to Han’s arm. His lip wobbled again, and his voice wavered as he finally turned to Chan, tears brimming in his eyes.

“Why don’t you guys want me in the pack?” Felix whispered, his voice cracking as he spoke.

The room went completely still.

-

Chan’s world shattered the moment Felix’s trembling voice broke the silence: “Why don’t you guys want me in the pack?”

Everything around him blurred. The sounds of the pack, the warmth of the room—none of it reached him. His chest felt hollow, his breath caught somewhere between his lungs and throat. The words echoed in his mind, over and over again, like a cruel taunt. He couldn’t move, couldn’t think, couldn’t process the idea that Felix—their Felix—believed he wasn’t wanted.

It wasn’t until he blinked, his vision clearing, that he realized the rest of the pack had sprung into action. They had gathered around Felix, their scents laced with panic and distress. Felix was kneeling on the floor now, leaning into Hyunjin’s arms as sobs wracked his small frame. Hyunjin’s face was tight with emotion, his arms protectively wrapped around Felix as he whispered reassurances into his ear. The sight snapped Chan back to reality.

He took a deep breath, willing his body to move, and hurried to Felix’s side. He dropped to his knees in front of him and Hyunjin, his heart pounding so loudly it felt like it was echoing in his ears. Hyunjin met his gaze, his expression softening with understanding before he gave Chan a small nod, gently coaxing Felix to pull back.

Felix sniffled, his head down, his shoulders shaking as he tried to suppress his sobs. Chan hesitated for a moment, his heart breaking at the sight of Felix so small and vulnerable. Slowly, he reached out, his hand trembling slightly as he placed a finger under Felix’s chin and lifted his face.

“Look at me, Felix,” Chan said softly, his voice gentle but firm.

Felix hesitated, his gaze flickering upward to meet Chan’s. His glassy eyes were filled with pain and uncertainty, and the sight nearly broke Chan. He blinked rapidly, forcing the tears threatening to form in his own eyes to stay at bay.

“Why would you ever think that we don’t want you in the pack?” Chan asked, his voice trembling slightly as he struggled to keep his emotions in check.

Felix’s lip quivered as his gaze dropped again, his hands twisting in the fabric of his shirt. “You’ve all been leaving me alone lately,” he said, his voice barely audible. “And I can tell you’re keeping something from me. You barely even come to the nest anymore. I just… I thought maybe I wasn’t…” His voice cracked, and he let out a shaky breath, unable to finish.

The room filled with soft, distressed whines from the pack. Jeongin knelt down beside Hyunjin, his eyes wet as he reached out to place a hand on Felix’s arm. Jisung covered his mouth with his hand, his other clenched tightly at his side, while Seungmin and Minho exchanged pained looks, their wolves clearly agitated by Felix’s words.

Chan closed his eyes for a moment, taking a deep, shaky breath to center himself. He opened them again, his gaze shifting to the rest of the pack. “This completely ruins the plan,” he said softly, his voice tinged with regret, “but our Yongbokkie needs it.”

Seungmin let out a soft whine, his shoulders slumping. “We put so much work into it, though…” he mumbled under his breath.

Minho, standing just behind him, lightly smacked the back of Seungmin’s head. “We can finish it later,” Minho said sharply, though his voice was still gentle.

Felix, who had been wiping at his tear-streaked face, looked up at the exchange, his brow furrowed in confusion. “What… what are you talking about?” he asked softly, his voice shaky but curious.

Chan turned his attention back to Felix, his lips curving into a soft smile. He cupped Felix’s face in his hand, brushing away a stray tear with his thumb. “We need to show you something,” he said gently.

Felix blinked, the confusion in his eyes deepening, but he nodded slowly. “O-Okay.”

Chan carefully slipped his arms under Felix, lifting him with ease. Felix let out a small noise of surprise, instinctively clutching at Chan’s shirt for support, but he didn’t protest. The rest of the pack followed quietly as Chan carried Felix down the hallway, their steps soft but deliberate.

When they reached Chan's bedroom door, Han suddenly darted forward, spreading his arms dramatically to block the way. “Wait! Felix, close your eyes!” Han said urgently, his voice a mix of excitement and nervous energy.

Felix let out a soft, bewildered laugh but complied, squeezing his eyes shut. “What are you guys doing?” he asked, his voice laced with both confusion and curiosity.

“Just trust us,” Han said, a grin tugging at his lips as he ushered the rest of the pack into the room. He opened the door and slipped inside with them, closing it firmly behind him.

Chan rolled his eyes, a quiet chuckle escaping him as he adjusted Felix in his arms. “Alright, you can open your eyes now,” he said softly, stepping into the room and gently setting Felix down on his feet.

“I’m sorry,” Chan said, his voice low and heavy with emotion. “I’m sorry we made you feel like we didn’t want you. That’s on me. I’ve been waiting to ask you to join the pack for years, Felix. Years.”

Felix blinked, his lips parting slightly in shock. “Years?” he repeated, his voice soft with disbelief.

Chan nodded, letting out a soft sigh as he looked away for a moment. His cheeks flushed slightly with embarrassment, but he forced himself to continue. “I wanted it to be perfect for you,” he admitted quietly. “I didn’t realize that waiting was making you feel like we didn’t want you. That was never the case, Lix. Never.”

Felix’s lip wobbled again, fresh tears brimming in his eyes. He didn’t speak, but the way he looked at Chan—so open, so vulnerable—was enough to make Chan’s chest ache.

Taking a deep breath, Chan reached for the door handle. “Let me show you,” he said softly.

And with that, he opened the door.

–

Felix’s breath caught in his throat as he stepped into the room, his eyes widening at the sight of the nest before him. It was huge, sprawling across the room like a haven of warmth and comfort. Blankets of every texture and color were layered together, forming a cozy, inviting space, while pillows were scattered in just the right places. His gaze darted around, immediately picking out familiar items: his favorite soft blanket folded neatly on the side, one of Hyunjin’s oversized sweaters he loved stealing, and Minho’s hoodie, which he’d “borrowed” so many times that Minho had eventually just given it to him.

As Felix’s eyes roamed, he noticed more personal touches. Some of his favorite snacks were tucked into the corners, a jar of honey Changbin had bought for his tea nestled beside a water bottle. Scattered throughout were small tokens that belonged to each member of the pack: a well-loved book from Seungmin, one of Han’s plushies, even Jeongin’s favorite gaming headset. The air was thick with their combined scents, warm and soothing, grounding Felix in a way that made his heart swell.

But it wasn’t just the nest that caught his attention. His pack was sitting around it, each of them holding a small box, their faces alight with hopeful smiles. The love and excitement in their eyes were so overwhelming that Felix felt his throat tighten. Tears began to pool in his eyes as he realized how much care they had put into this.

Chan gently guided Felix toward the center of the nest, his hand steady on Felix’s back. “Come on, Lixie,” he murmured, his voice warm and encouraging. “This is your spot.”

Felix sniffled, his vision blurring with tears as Chan helped him sit down. Before he could say anything, the boys were on him in an instant. Hyunjin draped a blanket over his lap, tucking it around him with meticulous care. Han fluffed the pillows behind Felix, muttering about making them “cloud-level comfortable.” Changbin handed him a water bottle, his fingers brushing Felix’s lightly, his eyes filled with quiet affection.

Seungmin adjusted the lighting in the room, shaking his head at Minho’s earlier setup. “Too bright,” he muttered, twisting the dimmer until it was just right.

Felix couldn’t help it—he giggled, the sound bubbling up as their care and attention lightened his heart. “Guys, I’m fine,” Felix said, his voice soft and affectionate. “This is already perfect.”

The boys exchanged fond looks before settling down around him. The warmth in the room was almost tangible, the atmosphere filled with love and anticipation.

Chan cleared his throat, drawing Felix’s attention. “We’ve got some gifts for you,” he said with a smile, gesturing to the boxes in their hands. “They’re our way of officially welcoming you.”

Felix blinked, his lips parting in surprise. “Gifts? For me?” he asked, his voice trembling with disbelief.

“Of course, for you,” Changbin teased, his grin wide. “Who else?”

Felix blushed, nodding shyly. The first to step forward was Minho, who handed Felix his box with a smirk.

“Here,” Minho said, his tone casual. “You’re always stealing my snacks, so I figured I’d make it official.”

Felix opened the box to find an assortment of his favorite snacks, arranged neatly. He laughed, his eyes crinkling as he looked up at Minho. “I do not steal your snacks!” he protested playfully.

Minho raised an eyebrow. “Don’t lie. That’s my chocolate stash you raid every week.”

Felix hugged the box close, his giggle softening into a fond smile. “Thank you, Minho. I love it.”

Seungmin stepped forward next, his box simple but thoughtful. “This isn’t much,” Seungmin said, rubbing the back of his neck. “But I thought you might need it.”

Inside was a journal, its cover decorated with subtle, calming patterns. Felix traced the design with his fingers, his lips parting slightly. “It’s beautiful,” he said quietly, looking up at Seungmin. “Thank you.”

Jeongin was practically bouncing as he handed over his box. “This is my favorite cologne,” he explained excitedly. “I thought you’d like it.”

Felix opened the box, inhaling the scent, and smiled brightly. It was warm and fresh, unmistakably Jeongin. “It’s amazing,” Felix said sincerely. “Thank you, Innie.”

Jisung came next, his grin practically splitting his face as he handed Felix his box. “I made this for you!” he exclaimed proudly.

Inside was a hand-knitted scarf in Felix’s favorite colors. Felix’s jaw dropped as he gently touched the fabric. “You made this?” he asked in awe.

“Of course!” Jisung replied, puffing out his chest. “Only the best for you.”

Felix laughed, hugging the scarf close. “It’s perfect, Han. Thank you.”

Hyunjin stepped forward hesitantly, holding his gift close. “I wasn’t sure what to give you,” he said softly, “but this felt right.”

Felix opened the box to find a delicate necklace inside, a pendant with a picture of the moon. He flipped the pendant, reading, 25/3/2018, the day they debuted. “Hyunjin…” he whispered, his voice breaking.

Hyunjin smiled, his hand resting lightly on Felix’s knee. “I love you, Lixie,” he said simply.

Felix’s tears spilled over as he clutched the frame to his chest. “I love you too,” he whispered back.

Next was Changbin’s turn. He crawled closer, his box carefully balanced in his hands. “I wasn’t sure what you needed,” Changbin said, his voice steady but tinged with emotion. “So I gave you something I think you’ve always had.”

Inside was a set of noise-canceling headphones, Felix’s favorite brand. Felix gasped, his eyes wide. “Changbin…” he started, but Changbin interrupted.

“You need peace sometimes,” Changbin said firmly, his eyes soft. “And I wanted to make sure you had it when you needed it.”

Felix’s lip wobbled as he threw his arms around Changbin, holding him tight. “Thank you, Binnie. You’re the best.”

Finally, Chan moved closer, holding his box with both hands. Felix’s tears hadn’t stopped, but he smiled as he looked up at Chan. Chan opened the box, revealing a delicate silver necklace with small pendants representing each member of the pack through their birthstones.

“This matches ours,” Chan said softly, his voice warm with emotion. “It’s a symbol of our bond. Of how much we love you.”

Felix’s hands trembled as he reached for the necklace, his tears spilling freely. “It’s beautiful,” he whispered.

Chan cupped Felix’s face gently, brushing away the tears with his thumbs. “Felix,” he said, his voice thick with emotion, “would you do us the honor of joining our pack? Officially?”

Felix’s lip wobbled, his smile breaking into a teary laugh as he nodded quickly. “Yes,” he whispered, his voice cracking. “Yes, I will.”

–
Felix laid back in the nest, his chest rising and falling as he tried to steady his breathing. The weight of the pack's love surrounded him, but his nerves still tingled with anticipation. His wolf stirred within him, urging him forward, reminding him that this was it—the moment he had waited for, dreamed of. His wide eyes flickered up to Chan, who knelt beside him, his warm presence grounding Felix like a steady anchor.

“Felix,” Chan said softly, his voice steady yet warm. “Do you think you’re ready to complete the bond?”

Felix didn’t hesitate. He nodded, his voice quiet but firm. “Yes,” he whispered, his gaze unwavering as he looked at Chan.

The room was silent for a moment, the weight of the moment settling over everyone. Then Chan smiled, his chest swelling with pride and love. “Alright,” he said, his tone softening as his eyes returned to Felix’s, “we’ll take turns scenting you. This will cement the pack bond, making it official. Are you ready?”

Felix’s lips trembled slightly, but he nodded again. “I’m ready,” he whispered, his voice stronger this time.

Chan leaned down, helping Felix lie back fully in the nest. The younger boy let himself relax into the soft blankets and pillows, his body buzzing with anticipation. Chan stayed close, his steady hand on Felix’s shoulder as he spoke.

“I’ll go first,” Chan said gently. His gaze locked with Felix’s for a moment before he leaned closer.

The alpha’s presence was overwhelming in the best way, and Felix shivered as Chan’s warm scent enveloped him. Slowly, Chan leaned down, his nose brushing along the curve of Felix’s collarbone. Felix gasped softly as Chan’s nose trailed upward, his breath warm against Felix’s skin. Chan nuzzled into the space just under Felix’s jaw, his cheek pressing against Felix’s neck in a deliberate, slow movement.

“Good boy,” Chan murmured, his voice low and soothing, his scent imprinting on Felix with every motion. He lingered there, nuzzling gently along the line of Felix’s throat before pulling back slightly to press his forehead against Felix’s.

Felix let out a soft whimper, his head tipping back as Chan’s scent wrapped around him completely. His chest felt warm, full, like something golden and strong was weaving between them. When Chan finally pulled back, his smile was wide and proud.

“You’re doing amazing,” Chan murmured, brushing a stray strand of hair from Felix’s face before stepping aside.

Next was Minho. The older wolf moved forward with quiet confidence, though his soft gaze betrayed the depth of his emotions. He knelt beside Felix, his fingers brushing against the edge of the nest as he leaned closer.

“My turn,” Minho said quietly, his voice steady but filled with warmth.

Minho started at Felix’s temple, his nose brushing lightly against his skin before trailing down to his jaw. Felix felt a shiver run through him as Minho nuzzled into the curve of his neck, his barely-there-stubble grazing Felix’s skin as he rubbed his cheek against him.

Felix’s breath hitched as Minho’s scent settled over him, a deep, grounding warmth that spoke of safety and stability. “You’re ours now,” Minho murmured, his voice low and firm, before he pressed a soft kiss to the corner of Felix’s jaw.

Felix felt tears prick his eyes again as Minho pulled back, his hand resting briefly on Felix’s chest as if to reassure him. “You’re perfect, Yongbokkie,” Minho said quietly, stepping back to let the next member come forward.

Changbin was next. His wolf had been pacing just under the surface, and now that it was his turn, he moved forward with purpose. His hands were gentle as he cupped Felix’s face, his thumbs brushing against his cheeks.

“You ready for me?” Changbin asked softly, his usual playful tone replaced with something tender.

Felix nodded, his chest tightening with emotion as Changbin leaned in. Changbin’s nose pressed to Felix’s temple first, his breath warm and steady as he trailed down to Felix’s jaw. He nuzzled against Felix’s skin with deliberate care, his cheek brushing along Felix’s neck as he rubbed his scent into him.

“You’re strong,” Changbin murmured, his voice a low rumble that sent a shiver through Felix. “You’re safe. You’re ours.” He pressed a firm, lingering nuzzle under Felix’s jaw before pulling back, his gaze steady as he looked down at Felix. “I’m proud of you, Yongbok,” Changbin said simply, his voice thick with emotion.

Felix’s lip wobbled as Changbin stepped back, his chest feeling impossibly full.

Next came Hyunjin. The taller wolf moved slowly, his eyes locked on Felix as he knelt beside him. There was a softness in his movements, but the intensity of his gaze made Felix’s breath catch.

Hyunjin leaned down, his nose trailing along Felix’s collarbone before moving up to his neck. Felix whimpered softly as Hyunjin’s cheek pressed against him, the other wolf’s scent flooding his senses. It was overwhelming—intoxicating—and Felix felt his head spin as Hyunjin lingered.

“You’re mine,” Hyunjin whispered, his voice trembling slightly. His scent was stronger now, wrapping around Felix like a warm cocoon. “Soon,” Hyunjin murmured, his voice soft and full of promise as he nuzzled into the crook of Felix’s neck.

Felix let out a soft whine, his hands clutching at the blankets beneath him as his body trembled. The bond between them felt different, deeper, like something more was trying to break through. But Hyunjin pulled back, his hand brushing Felix’s cheek gently. “Not yet,” he whispered. “Soon.”

When Hyunjin moved aside, he glanced at Chan. “Maybe we should take a break,” Hyunjin suggested softly, his eyes flicking back to Felix, whose cheeks were flushed, his breath coming in soft, uneven gasps.

But Felix whined loudly, shaking his head as he clutched at Chan’s hand. He couldn’t form words, but the desperation in his eyes was clear. He didn’t want to stop.

Chan chuckled softly, his hand stroking Felix’s hair gently. “Alright,” he murmured, looking up at Han. “You’re next.”

Han moved forward with a grin, though his movements were soft and careful as he knelt beside Felix. “Hey, Pixie” he said quietly, his nose brushing against Felix’s temple. “My turn.”

Han nuzzled into Felix’s cheek, his scent light and playful, yet warm and grounding. Felix whimpered softly as Han moved lower, trailing along his neck with deliberate care. “You smell so good already,” Han teased lightly, though his voice was filled with affection. “You’re doing so well, Lix.”

When Han finally pulled back, he pressed a quick, playful kiss to Felix’s forehead, making the younger boy giggle through his tears.

Seungmin followed next, his movements slow and deliberate as he knelt beside Felix. His scent was crisp and grounding, and Felix felt a shiver run through him as Seungmin leaned in. Seungmin’s nose brushed along Felix’s shoulder, trailing up to his neck before nuzzling under his chin.

Felix whimpered softly as Seungmin lingered there, his scent embedding itself into Felix’s skin like a soft melody. “You’re doing so well,” Seungmin murmured, his voice low and comforting as he pressed his cheek to Felix’s collarbone one last time before pulling away.

Finally, Jeongin moved forward, his hands trembling slightly as he knelt beside Felix. “It’s okay, Innie,” Felix whispered softly, his voice cracking as he smiled at the youngest.

Jeongin nodded, his nose brushing against Felix’s collarbone before trailing up to his neck. His scent was fresh and bright, like sunlight after rain, and Felix felt himself relax even further as Jeongin nuzzled gently against him.

When Jeongin pulled back, he pressed his forehead against Felix’s briefly, his voice soft. “You’re everything to us,” Jeongin murmured, his voice shaky but sincere.

By the time the scenting was done, Felix was completely overwhelmed. His chest felt like it might burst, the bond between him and the pack glowing brightly within him. He could feel their love, their warmth, their unwavering devotion, and it left him breathless.

Someone gently sat Felix up, leaning him back against their chest. Another hand brought a piece of fruit to his lips, and Felix hummed softly, his body pliant as he let them care for him. He drank water slowly, his mind foggy with contentment as the bond settled deep within him.

When they finally laid him back down, someone curled up behind him, their arm draping over his waist. Another body pressed close to his chest, their fingers brushing softly against his skin. Felix sighed deeply, his wolf calm and content as he drifted off to sleep, completely surrounded by the love of his pack.