Chapter Text
"You may now kiss the bride."
Loud cheers and clapping of hands can be heard in the wedding hall but all Seungcheol can hear is silence. He's used to it by now. Being told what to do because he should not be a disgrace, holding the burden of being an alpha, swallowing responsibilities just because it's a need… Even this marriage is a need; not a want, nor born out of love.
'Cheol… they're watching. Just please pretend… not for me but for our families."
Cheol, who just wants to get over with everything that's happening, grabbed his wife and kissed her hastily on the lips.
"That was quick but not bad. Get used to this. We'll get divorced after months or even just a year. No need to be hostile towards me.", Cheol's wife, Meredith, whispered while clinging onto him and smiling at the crowd.
Yes. That is the plan. Cheol married someone only because of a business deal, a typical scenario for alphas and chaebols like him. His wife, who's an omega, needed someone to save their company from bankruptcy hence the marriage.
"I know. I know. Everything in this setup is okay with me. But what bothers me the most is the condition that you need to get pregnant before we can proceed with what we've planned."
Meredith just smiled. Unlike Seungcheol, she already has a plan in mind. Quite dangerous, yes, but if this is the way for her and her husband to escape this shithole, she will do it.
"Just smile for today, hmm?" She asked while clinging on to her husband's arms. "There are a lot of eyes and ears here. We must act according to their expectations."
____
"And that is South Korea's most awaited wedding of the year--the Choi-Park wedding. Congratulations to the newly--" *bzzt*
"Son… why did you turn off the TV?"
"Mom, it's time for you to rest. You need to regain your strength. Besides, you need to drink your medicine in 2 hours. It's best if you can sleep a bit before that."
This is Jeonghan's life. Everyday after his university class he drops off by the hospital to check on his mom. Afterwards he will go to work. It has been a daily routine that even Jeonghan hasn't noticed it's been going on for almost a year.
And he despises watching how rich people like alphas just get whatever they want because of their gender role. They're all human beings, why can't everyone just have the same opportunities? He was lost in thought when the doctor suddenly knocked on the door.
"Jeonghan? Can I have a word with you?"
Wonwoo is the head doctor of the hospital. He's been taking care of Jeonghan's mom since she was admitted and Jeonghan was really grateful for the kindness and generosity of the doctor. But it seems like every good thing has an end.
"How's mom's condition, doc?"
Wonwoo pursed his lips before speaking and that didn't escape Jeonghan's eyes. "It's getting worse. Unless we conduct her surgery within this month… I'm sorry to say but her life expectancy would be two months at most."
That made Jeonghan tear up. He's exhausted, he's in pain. Everything he does seems to be futile, seems to be lacking.
"Also, about your hospital bill, I can only manage to find organizations who are willing to shoulder your mom's chemotherapy but the surgery… I can't find anyone who's interested."
This made Jeonghan angry. "Why? Because my mom's an omega, is that it? If she's an alpha I bet that a lot of people and organizations will get out of their way just to help her. But because we're poor and we're omegas, we don't have that kind of place and privilege in society. It's so unfair!"
Wonwoo tried to calm Jeonghan down. Even if he doesn't know anything about what the latter is feeling since he's a beta, he can clearly see how much Jeonghan was persevering just to save his mom.
"Alright… how about this?", Wonwoo hands out a business card to Jeonghan. "Call the number on this card, tell that person that I recommended you."
"What is this, doc?", Asked a confused Jeonghan.
"You are mad about your assigned gender, right? Make it your own power."
______
"What are you planning to do?", Asked Seungcheol who's now in the hotel room with his wife.
"Simple. I will hire an omega who will give birth for us."
Seungcheol was shocked and taken aback. Sure, his wife is cunning and smart but he did not expect for her to suggest something like this.
"What?"
"I already asked my friend to look for decent candidates. All I need is for you to cooperate with this one."
Seungcheol was still dumbfounded. He doesn't know what to say.
"Look, Cheol, we are best friends. Partners. We both know we don't want this marriage. Plus… I'm already bonded to my girlfriend. Just… please… let's make this work for both of us. We both want our freedom, right? So please…"
All Seungcheol can see is sincerity in his wife's eyes. Sure, they both wanted to get out of this marriage but it's Meredith who desperately needs it more.
"Fine. Tell me your plans. All of it."
Meredith smiled warmly. "Thank you, Cheol. I owe you this one."
____
Jeonghan did not notice the time. It was already past 11 pm and he's still not finished counting the stocks of dried goods in the storage room. He's working as a helper in a restaurant being run by his professor, Seokmin.
"Jeonghan? You're still not done?"
"Almost, sir."
Seokmin went in and helped him fix the products. "I-uhh… I have something to say to you."
"Yes sir? What is it?"
"Today is your payday, right? I'm sorry but our restaurant needed cost-cutting. That's… that's the reason why we needed to fire three helpers. Business was not good for the past few months and this restaurant was more of a burden now to me."
Jeonghan felt a lump in his throat. Why do bad things keep on happening in his life?
"I'm so sorry. I know you needed money for your mom's surgery but not firing you was the best I can do for now. Instead of giving your salary 100%, I can only give 75% of it."
Jeonghan fought back his tears. "No, sir… it's okay. I understand. At least I can still work here, right? Plus it's almost summer break and I'm already graduating. I can look for more jobs to meet my goal for my mom's surgery."
"Thank you for understanding, Jeonghan."
With a heavy heart, Jeonghan walked towards his house. It was a very long and tiring day, too tiring that he couldn't even cry out the heaviness in his heart. When he got home, he immediately went to bed and thought about what he could do to solve his current problems. He looked at their ceiling, some parts were already hanging loose. He looked at the walls, all too dirty and shabby, at their appliances which some are not working anymore. Their house was once vibrant, full of love and joy. But now, it just screams poverty and loneliness.
"I'm so tired. I just want everything to end."
____
"Have you found a candidate?", Meredith asked her friend on the phone. Seungcheol was sitting across from her, eating breakfast.
"I did find one… but it was him whom I asked to contact you. This kid badly needs money so I think this could be a win-win situation for both of you."
Seungcheol could hear what they were talking about since his wife put the call on speaker. "I don't want to wait. Send me his details."
"Are you really sure you want to do this, Meredith? Have you asked Seungcheol already?"
Meredith chuckled. "My dear husband is sitting with me right now eating his breakfast while listening to our conversation. Of course he knows. We're a team here."
"Oh well… good luck. I just hope that everyone will benefit from this situation."
"I'll make sure of that, Wonwoo. Thank you for your help."
"No problem, Meredith. By the way, this kid's a he. Is it okay for both of you?"
Meredith smiled and looked at Cheol whose eyes are now wide. "Of course. That's better, actually. My husband's gay."
____
Jeonghan woke up with a loud bang on his door.
"Jeonghan!!! Open the door!!!"
Shit. It's his landlord, Minghao.
He slowly opened the door, too scared to do so. "Yes, Mr. Xu?"
"You haven't been paying for 3 months, Jeonghan. My properties are not for charity cases like you. If you still can't pay until tomorrow, you better leave this house or I'll call the cops."
"I'm sorry, Mr. Xu. It's just that I'm saving up for my mother's--"
"I don't give a damn about your life, Jeonghan. Pay your rent or leave my property. Simple as that. I will return tomorrow to collect the fees. If not, you better pack your things and leave."
When his landlord left, Jeonghan went inside his house again. He couldn't help but to cry out the frustrations and pain that has been pent up inside him. It was unfair, really. Why do they have to suffer like this? Why does he have to suffer like this?
He was about to reach his pocket to get his handkerchief when a card fell on the ground. He picked it up and looked at the details on it. It was the card that Doctor Wonwoo gave him. He suddenly remembered what the doctor said, that this person might help him. He doesn't care anymore, all he wants is for everything to be solved even if it would be through dangerous means. He dialed the number and waited.
"Hello? This is Jeonghan. Doctor Wonwoo told me to call you. He said that you might be able to help me."
"Jeonghan! Hello. I have been waiting for your call."
____
Jeonghan didn't know what happened. One minute he was just on a phone call then next thing he knew he was already in a luxurious car.
"Hi, Jeonghan. I'm Jisoo, the head butler of the Choi family. Mrs. Meredith asked us to fetch you but before anything else, we want you to sign this non-disclosure agreement. You are, in no way, allowed to talk about anything you see or hear in the mansion to anyone. If you wish to back out, tell me right away so I can drop you off immediately."
Han tried to take a glimpse at Jisoo's eyes but all he can see is seriousness.
"I will sign it."
There's no going back, Han knows it. But he is now willing to do anything and everything just to save his mom.
____
An hour had passed and now the car is entering a big villa. The entrance was like straight out of a fairytale movie--a garden with a fountain and a statue, each corner filled with flowers. Han tried to hide his loud heartbeat by admiring the beauty of the view when suddenly their ride came to a halt.
"We're here."
To say that the mansion was extravagant was an understatement. It was as if gods and kings lived in it for everything just screams pure royalty. Han never knew that a day would come where he would enter such a beautiful place. The floor was made of marble, the windows were all high, and the curtains were made of pure silk. All those dazzling furniture suddenly made Han realize that he really doesn't belong in this kind of place.
And he suddenly remembered what he was here for.
Especially when he saw a beautiful woman standing in front of him.
"Hello. You must be Jeonghan. I'm Meredith.", The woman said while shaking his hands. "You must be famished. Jisoo, let our guest eat first and then lead him to my office."
Han just silently followed Jisoo. When he sat down in front of a large dining table, servants immediately went out of the kitchen and started serving food in front of him.
"Uhm… Jisoo… I can't finish all of these."
"Just eat whatever you want to eat. It's okay."
"But…", Han thought long and hard before saying what he was thinking. "Is it okay if you join me?"
Jisoo just smiled. "Servants know their places, Jeonghan. We cannot allow ourselves to indulge in such expensive things. Now, eat your food. Mrs. Choi must be waiting for you."
___
"Are you satisfied with the food?", Meredith asked as Jeonghan sat in front of her.
"Yes. Thank you so much."
"You might be wondering by now why Wonwoo recommended you to do something for me. As you can see, this is something important and confidential hence the non-disclosure agreement that we made you sign."
Jeonghan was nervous but at the same time, he's curious. He can see that the woman in front of him is examining his reactions so he tries to calm himself down.
"My marriage with Seungcheol is not born out of love. We are friends. Bestfriends, to be exact. But we need to marry each other so that we can cut our ties off of our families and inherit what is rightfully ours."
Meredith sipped her tea and continued. "It was just getting married at first. But when our business got bankrupt, Seungcheol's father started to add another condition as an exchange for their help… we need to have a baby."
Jeonghan wasn't sure about what he heard so he asked Meredith again. "Wha--what did you say?"
"The service that we need you to do… is bear Seungcheol's child."
What?
"You can still back out if you want to. But then I heard that you really need the money since your debts are already piling up and your mom is in the hospital, needing an operation."
Jeonghan was confused. He knew he needed money but how come things turned to this?
"We are both desperate, Jeonghan.", Meredith said while reaching out to hold his hand. "You want to do this for your mother whom you love the most. It's the same thing for me. I don't want to threaten you but I also want to be free and be with the one whom I love." Meredith then proceeded to show a picture of her and her girlfriend on her phone.
"So please… let's help each other. If you want to think about it, I'll let you be. But I hope you can make your decision as soon as possible."
Jeonghan, still shocked, tried to compose his thoughts. After a few minutes of silence, he decided to speak. "I… I'd just like to ask. Is this really how alphas live? Hiring omegas to do tasks for them? Even to the point where an omega's life would be in danger?"
Meredith was taken aback by what Jeonghan asked but she still smiled softly. "I… I am also an omega, Jeonghan. All of us are in places we do not deserve nor we do not want just because of this stupid gender assignment. There are things which alphas can do and only omegas can do and vice-versa. I hope you'd understand that I won't take it against you if you won't agree. After all, if only I can do this--give birth to a child, I would do it. But… I'm a recessive omega. I'm infertile."
____
Jeonghan went straight to the hospital after the meeting. Before he went down, Jisoo gave him some advice.
"I hope you can consider this... job. I have heard about your mother's condition. Seungcheol and Meredith are not bad people. It's just that the situation has been really hard for them to be this desperate. Like you, they did not ask to be an alpha or an omega. Like you, they did not want to belong in this hierarchy."
Jeonghan pursed his lips. "I understand your sentiments, Jisoo. But please do understand too that we're talking about my body and my future here. I still need to think about this. Thank you for bringing me to the hospital. I'll now take my leave."
With that, Jeonghan got out of the car.
____
"Hi mom. How are you?", Jeonghan asked as he entered his mom's room.
"Feeling better, Hannie. You do not need to worry too much about me. I want you to focus on your life and studies. How's university life?"
"Well," Jeonghan proceeded as he peeled some oranges for his mom to eat, "I still managed to get high grades. I might even graduate as the top of my class, mom. That's why I need you to focus on regaining your strength so you can attend my graduation."
Jeonghan's mom smiled. "I'm sorry if I have been a burden to you."
"No, mom. It's not your fault that you got sick nor it is your fault that society has shunned us just because we're like this." Jeonghan held his mom's hands and kissed her forehead. "We'll get through this soon, okay? Just be strong."
____
Big, black plastic bags are what Jeonghan saw as soon as he reached the house. He instantly panicked and tried to open the door when he saw a note pasted on it.
'DO NOT BOTHER ON OPENING THIS DOOR, JEONGHAN.
CONSIDER THE UNPAID RENTAL AS MY PARTING GIFT TO YOU.'
"What? No… no.", Jeonghan shakingly muttered as he read the note left on the door. His tears started falling down as he tried to open the bags containing his and his mother's things.
He didn't think that things would get worse that night but he suddenly went into heat. The worst thing that could happen to an omega is to go into heat while outside, with no marks of an alpha. It's like being a prey in a world full of predators. He tried searching for his suppressants but it's nowhere to be found.
"No… please… this can't be happening…", Jeonghan whispered while sweating and panting. "Please… somebody save me…"
____
Cream-colored ceiling is what Jeonghan saw when he opened his eyes. He looked around and saw a room filled with furniture made of expensive wood and marbles, the bed where he was laying on was so soft. He scanned the entire room when he heard a voice beside him.
"You're awake."
It was a deep voice, enough to give Jeonghan shivers down his spine.
"Who are you? Where am I?"
The man smiled softly. "I'm Seungcheol Choi, the owner of this house. Meredith asked me to pick you up when you called her and said that you needed her help."
"Meredith? I called Meredith?"
"Yes. Before you passed out, you called her and asked for her help. Good thing I was about to go home and the area where you live is near my location."
Jeonghan stayed silent for a while. He tried to take a glance at the man beside him. And he was astonished. Handsome would be an understatement. The man has curly locks that touch his forehead, long lashes which make his eyes inviting to look at, a skin like a porcelain, and a build and posture that screams that this man is an alpha.
"You might burn a hole in my face if you wouldn't stop staring.", Seungcheol said with a small chuckle.
Jeonghan suddenly looked away, he's sure that his face is now red. This man is just too beautiful and he's really nervous right now.
"Don't worry, I won't do anything to you. Every servant in this house is a beta, I guess you know that by now since it's your second time here. The doctor immediately injected you with a suppressant as soon as we arrived here in the house so you'll be okay."
"But… How come you didn't bite me? Are you sure nothing really happened?"
Seungcheol just smiled and stood up. "Your body will tell you, Jeonghan. You should take a rest. I'll just tell Jisoo to bring food here. I'll come back later to talk to you about something."
Before Seungcheol left, Jeonghan noticed a bite mark on the alpha's hand. A bite of an alpha.
____
Jeonghan already accepted his fate. This will be his new journey, his new life from now on. He finally agreed to the proposition made by Meredith. He has nowhere to go now, and his salary with his current job won't suffice for his mother's surgery.
There are just a few conditions that he needed to do. One would be to start living in the mansion. Good thing it's a secluded area and no one would know what's going on in there. Two, he can visit his mother only twice a week provided that he is still not bearing the child. Three, he will take the suppressants within two months but on the third month, he should oblige in carrying the child.
"How's your stay here?", Jisoo asked after placing his snacks on the table. He's currently sitting on a bench at the veranda, reading a book.
"Still can't believe I'm doing this, that I'm currently living here. Never in my life did I imagine living somewhere as nice as this."
Jisoo smiled. It's been two weeks since Jeonghan started living in the mansion and so far, he's the only one who's been close to the latter. "Are you having any difficulties? Or… were you uncomfortable perhaps? Is Seungcheol visiting you?"
"I'm fine, don't worry. I just really miss my mom. As for Seungcheol, I always see him walk in my room every night. He thinks I'm sleeping but I'm not. He will fix my blanket and brush my hair with his fingers then leave."
"I heard that Meredith already talked to your mother's doctor and they are preparing for the operation already."
Jeonghan smiled. At least he can finally sleep in peace, knowing that his mother will get the proper treatment.
"Well… about what you said regarding Seungcheol… that's the first time I've heard something about him like that."
Jeonghan was puzzled. "What do you mean?"
"Well," Jisoo took a deep breath before continuing, "I've been taking care of him since he was little. Never have I seen him be soft to someone. He was always stiff, just like his father. His mom died when he was little so he doesn't really know how to express his feelings. It was only Meredith who got close with him but even with his best friend he's still cold. So I was a bit surprised when you told me that."
Jeonghan suddenly recalled the incident where Seungcheol brought him home. "Jisoo, were you there when Seungcheol brought me home?"
"Yes, I was there. I can't forget how much blood came out of Seungcheol's hand because he bit himself instead of biting your nape. Your pheromones were really strong that night and I didn't know how he managed to fight it."
Jeonghan never experienced falling in love with someone but this talk with Jisoo surely made his heart skip a beat. Still, he tried to brush it off.
____
Seungcheol got home, it was almost 1 in the morning. He had to deal with a lot of meetings and workload just for his transition to becoming the new CEO to be successful. Good thing Meredith was there to help. They really need to help each other since they're almost near in achieving their end goal--to be free from the shackles of their families.
It's been three weeks since Jeonghan moved into the mansion and it has been Seungcheol's habit to visit his room before he goes to sleep. What he did not expect was for Jeonghan to be still awake and wait for him. When he shuffled Jeonghan's hair, he felt a grip on his hand.
"Why are you doing this?"
Seungcheol was taken aback. "Oh… I'm sorry. I didn't mean to wake you up."
"I've been awake all this time everytime you're going to do… this."
Seungcheol didn't mean to scare Jeonghan. But he doesn't know how to approach the latter. All he knows is he's never been this interested with a person. He wanted to confirm whether he's really attracted to Jeonghan because of him as a person and everything he knew about him (thanks to Meredith), or if he's just empathetic towards him, or is it his instincts reacting.
"I'm sorry. I won't do this again. I'm sorry if I scared you.", Seungcheol whispered with a tight smile.
"No… it's okay. For some reason your touch gives me comfort and…" Jeonghan paused and thought carefully before continuing. "I've… I've been waiting for it every night. It's as if I'm being reassured that everything will be okay."
Seungcheol sat down beside Jeonghan. "I'm really sorry that you were dragged into this mess."
"You don't have to apologize. After all, I have accepted this… everything in this set up. Besides, you and Meredith helped my mom. That's more than enough for me."
"You must really love your mom so much."
Jeonghan smiled and hugged his knees. "Yeah. She's the only one I have since my dad left us for another omega."
Jeonghan pursed his lips and continued. "My parents were bonded, just like any other married couple were. And you know what happens when an alpha leaves his bonded pair, right? They die."
A deep and loud sigh can be heard before Jeonghan continued his story. "Good thing my mom didn't die. But she started having complications in her body. She suddenly had a tumor in her lungs which can only be cured through surgery and continuous chemotherapy."
A tear escaped from Jeonghan's eye. "That's the beginning of my hatred towards Alphas and this stupid gender system. And that's when I swore I will never fall in love with anyone. I do not want to end up broken like my mom."
Seungcheol didn't know how to comfort Jeonghan but for some reason, he found himself hugging the latter.
"I'm sorry that this happened to you, Jeonghan."
Jeonghan was a bit taken aback but he felt warm in Seungcheol's embrace. They stayed like that for a couple of minutes when Jeonghan gently pushed him.
"It's late. You must be tired. We should go to sleep."
Seungcheol then stood up and took his leave. He bid Jeonghan goodnight and was about to walk out the door when he heard Jeonghan speak.
"You can come to my room again tomorrow. You can tell me your stories, too."
With a smile, Seungcheol answered. "Sure."
____
Jeonghan woke up with the smell of pancakes and waffles. He immediately got up and went to the kitchen. He was expecting the maids and Jisoo to be busily doing their errands but his eyes opened wide when he saw Seungcheol wearing only his sweatpants and an apron preparing breakfast.
"Oh, you're awake. Good morning, Jeonghan."
"Good morning… Where's everybody?"
"Whenever I don't have work I allow everyone to take a day off. They'll be back tomorrow, don't worry."
"How about Meredith?"
"Meredith only comes here every now and then. You know, just for formalities and just in case someone spies on us. But she's currently living with her girlfriend, not far away from here.", Seungcheol said as he put pancakes and fruits on Jeonghan's plate.
"Come on, sit down. Let's eat breakfast."
Clanking of plates and spoons are all that can be heard while the two are eating. Seungcheol already took off his apron and he's now wearing a sando but Jeonghan couldn't take off of his mind what he saw earlier.
So that's how big an alpha is.
So that's how strong an alpha is.
And that alpha will soon take him and he will bear his child.
Jeonghan tried to brush the thought off when he suddenly heard Seungcheol speak.
"What do you want to do today? I am free and I would really like it if I can keep you company.'"
Jeonghan thought long and hard. He doesn't have anything in mind but he remembered the garden at the entrance. He never had a tour inside and outside the mansion and he was really curious about it.
"Sure. Finish your food and I'll tour you."
____
Jeonghan loves flowers. That's why he was so delighted when he got to see the entirety of the gardens inside the mansion.
"It's beautiful."
Seungcheol looked at Jeonghan. Sure enough, this man beside him is a true beauty. His blonde hair, dreamy eyes, soft skin, and small lips makes it hard for Seungcheol not to pay attention. Jeonghan and the flowers really do make a good match so he decided to pluck one and give it to him.
"What's this?"
"I just noticed that you are beautiful like these flowers."
Jeonghan tried to hide his shyness by playing it off cool. "What, you're doing a pick up line now?"
Seungcheol chuckled. "You know, I used to hate flowers. I mean, they're only there for a short time. They grow, bloom, then wilt. Whenever I see lovers who give their significant other a flower, I want to laugh hard because why would you give someone important to you something that dies and fades away easily?"
Jeonghan never said a word. He just looked at Seungcheol and waited for the latter to continue. "That is, until Jisoo told me that it was my mom who built this garden. My mom knew that she would die once she gave birth to me. That's why she created something that would remind me visually that she loves me so much."
Seungcheol then looked at Jeonghan. "But my dad hated this garden. He hated me. This garden, my existence, is a reminder that my mom died and he wasn't able to do anything."
Now Jeonghan understands what Jisoo told him. He didn't speak a word. Instead, he went towards Seungcheol and held his hand.
"I'm in no position to give advice. We both have shitty fathers.", Jeonghan chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "Still, you should make your mom's sacrifice worth it. Live a life that would make you happy, live a life that she would be proud of."
"Once I give birth," Jeonghan continued, "make sure that our child will be living the best life. Give them everything they want and need. Love them unconditionally."
Seungcheol felt a lump in his throat. He knew what the end would be but for some reason he felt a pang in his heart when he heard what Jeonghan said. Still, he brushed it off and put his arms on Jeonghan's shoulders.
"I will."
____
Both of them returned inside and looked for other things to do. They played video games, they looked at Seungcheol's baby pictures, they watched movies, they cooked and baked snacks, they did a lot of fun things.
"Thank you for today, Seungcheol. I had fun."
Seungcheol smiled. "You're very welcome. Let's do this again during my day-offs."
Jeonghan was not able to answer because he had already fallen asleep. Seungcheol then fixed his blanket and stroked his hair.
"I hope you can still be here beside me after you give birth to our child. I hope you can see them grow up."
____
It's Jeonghan's second month in the house. His graduation is coming up in a week and he doesn't know if he can go.
"Do you think they will allow me?", Jeonghan asked Jisoo, who's currently mixing batter.
"Why don't you ask them?"
"But I'm a bit shy to do so. And I'm scared."
"Come on, don't be silly. They would make a way for you. They would make the situation work out. Trust me."
"Just like how you told my boss that I won't be coming to his restaurant to work anymore?"
"Mm hmm."
"And how you managed to date my former boss?"
Jisoo stopped mixing the batter and looked at Jeonghan, clearly shocked. "How did you know?"
"It was obvious.", Jeonghan said like it's a matter of fact.
"You…" Jisoo started throwing the bag of sprinkles to Jeonghan.
"Ouch!!!", Jeonghan responded and threw a handful of chocolate to his friend. They were playing and having fun when someone spoke behind Jeonghan and cleared his throat.
"Jisoo. Why are you making such a mess?"
It's Seungcheol.
"I'm sorry. I'll just fix these. Jeonghan, leave me alone if you want your cake to be baked."
"Fine, fine.", Jeonghan said with a chuckle. He then turned to Seungcheol and greeted him with a smile. "You're home early."
"There was really nothing to do in the office. Meredith took care of the rest since she'll be going overseas."
"Overseas?"
"Yes. She will be doing some business for her parents which of course is a part of our companies' transition."
Jeonghan silently fidgeted his fingers and Seungcheol immediately noticed it.
"Are you okay? Do you want to say something?"
"I just... want to ask if I can go to my graduation."
Jeonghan kept on fidgeting. He's really nervous. Cute, Seungcheol thought.
"Of course you can."
"But... I'm not allowed to go outside unless I'll be visiting my mom in the hospital, right?"
Seungcheol patted Jeonghan's head, much to the surprise of the latter.
"We made that rule because we don't want to compromise your safety. And that's your graduation after all. You can go. But make sure that you won't be home late, okay? And take Jisoo with you."
Jeonghan smiled, full of gratitude. "Thank you, Cheol."
____
"Congratulations, graduates of 2021! Give yourselves a warm round of applause!"
Four years of struggles and pain has finally ended. Jeonghan couldn't help but tear up now that he finally finished his course and is now a graduate of Interior Design.
"Jeonghan! Smile!"
Jiso took a picture of Jeonghan from a polaroid and when the image appeared, the latter immediately teared up.
"I'm done. Finally... I was able to graduate."
Jisoo hugged his friend. They have known each other for only almost two months and yet they both can say that their friendship has been nothing but pure joy for each other's success and happiness.
"Where do you want to go? What do you want to do?"
Jeonghan wiped his tears and looked at Jisoo with a smile. "I want to visit my mom."
Jeonghan's mom is still in the ICU so he could only visit and talk to her through a glass window.
"Mom… I made it. I finally graduated. I'm a bit sad that you weren't there but at least you're now getting well."
He clutched his diploma tight and continued. "I hope you won't hate me nor get mad at me for coming to a decision on how to help you get well. I hope that you will understand. You're all I have after all. I love you, mom."
Jeonghan talked to Wonwoo for a bit before leaving the hospital.
"Your mom is recovering fast, faster than what we expected. Good thing we did the operation before things got worse."
"Thank you. Thank you for saving my mom."
"By the way, how are you? How's your stay at Seungcheol's house?"
"I'm fine. Everything's good. They're both really kind and they attend to all my needs, especially Seungcheol."
Kind? Seungcheol?
Wonwoo kept that question to himself. Instead, he just advised Jeonghan what and what not to do so he can be ready.
"Are you still taking your inhibitors?"
"No, doc. Since last week. I think I'm already fine. I'm ready."
____
"Jeonghan, we will be sending you home but we will be taking our leave once we arrive at the mansion."
"What? Why?"
"I don't know. That's what was instructed to us."
Jeonghan was puzzled. "By whom?"
Before Jisoo could reply, they had already arrived at the mansion. Jisoo signalled Jeonghan to go down, which he did, and they bid him goodbye. Jeonghan was still confused but his confusion was replaced with surprise when he got inside.
'CONGRATULATIONS, JEONGHAN.'
That's what he saw once he opened the door. It was a big banner with pastel-colored balloons around it. There's a table below and two chairs, one chair has a bouquet filled with daisies and daffodils on it. There were candles and dinnerware, the set up was so fancy.
"Happy graduation."
Jeonghan turned towards where he heard the voice and he saw Seungcheol wearing a white polo and black pants. He looks so damn good that Jeonghan forgot to blink for a second.
"I… I don't know what gift to give you so I asked Meredith for help. She told me that this could work… Well, did it work?"
Jeonghan chuckled. He realized that even when Seungcheol seemed to be strong and serious all the time, he still had this dorky, soft side.
And he's happy that he can witness it.
"This is more than enough. Thank you, Seungcheol."
They sat down and ate together, talking about what happened to their lives lately and Jeonghan's graduation. Laughter filled the room, delicious food filled their stomach.
"Are you really sure you cooked all of these?", Jeonghan asked jokingly.
"What? You don't believe it? I can do a lot of things you don't know.", Seungcheol said with a smile and confidence.
Jeonghan was happy, so happy that he even forgot the reason why he was here.
"May I have this dance?"
Jeonghan stood up and accepted Seungcheol's hand. It was big and warm, enough to clasp him wholly.
The dance was slow and soft, enough for them to hear each other's breath, enough to feel each other's heartbeat.
"What are you planning to do after all of these?"
Jeonghan pursed his lips. To be honest, he doesn't know what to do after the contract. He can't let his feelings take over him. Heck, he can't even distinguish what his heart is telling him. But one thing's for sure.
Seungcheol is and will always be someone special.
Even if they met in circumstances like this, he will always treasure how Seungcheol treated him, how he felt like gender doesn't matter at all between the two of them.
"I don't know. Maybe I'll live somewhere far from here… start a new life with my mom…"
"You won't visit me? Not even our child?"
Jeonghan lowered his head, avoiding Seungcheol's gaze. "Why are you asking me those things?"
Instead of answering, Seungcheol lifted his chin and gave him a kiss. It was tender, warm, and gentle. All those unsaid words, unclear feelings, they both poured it out in that kiss.
"Seungcheol… we should not--"
"Jeonghan… I like you."
What? No.
No. Jeonghan should be stopping Seungcheol. But why are they suddenly inside a big room, on a soft bed? Jeonghan melted away in Seungcheol's embrace and he let himself be. Sooner or later they will be doing this, might as well go with it, right? He can keep his feelings to himself, right?
Wrong. He started embracing Seungcheol, returning his kisses and touch. Their hands wandered off of each other's body, exploring the wonders and magic they could feel that night. Clothes were taken off, the only thing that covers them is their skin being one.
"Jeonghan, you're beautiful."
A tear escaped Jeonghan's eyes. He knows it. Seungcheol is in heat. This might just be his innate nature talking that's why Jeonghan shouldn't take it to heart.
And it's painful just as it is.
Their bodies might be one but their heart, their social status, their lives will never be.
Jeonghan doesn't know how many times they did it that night but all he knows is it's enough to get him pregnant. He passed out even before Seungcheol was finished.
"Jeonghan… I want to be with you. Please… stay..."
____
A cool breeze woke Jeonghan up. It's windy but he felt something warm wrapping him up.
"You're awake? Good morning."
He looked up and he saw Seungcheol smiling at him, hugging him tight.
"I hope… you're not regretting anything that happened last night."
Jeonghan smiled with bitterness "No, not at all. It's part of the contract, right?"
____
It's been three weeks since that night. Jeonghan and Seungcheol never got the chance to talk again. After he mentioned the contract, Seungcheol remained silent and he just smiled in return.
"Jisoo… Have I said anything wrong?"
Jisoo kept stirring the pot. He's cooking their lunch while listening to Jeonghan's grievances. "Technically, you didn't say anything wrong. It's true, sooner or later you will do it because of the contract. But…"
"But?"
"I don't know if you're stupid or naive or both combined. He likes you."
"That… That's what he told me."
Jisoo gasped. "Oh my god…"
"But this is just a contract after all, right? Besides, it's only a 'like'--a temporary feeling. Sooner or later he'll forget about it."
"Yep, you're both combined.", Jisoo said with a dissatisfied face.
"What?"
"Nothing. Just--just sit down and eat. Doctor Wonwoo will arrive here soon to check up on you."
"What is this check up for?", Jeonghan asked.
"Seungcheol told me that you both already did it and I'm here to confirm if you already have a baby inside you. I know it's still early but don't worry. We already have devices that are able to identify it even if it has been just weeks."
Wonwoo conducted several tests and procedures. Jeonghan tried to stay calm the entire time but he was nervous. If he's already pregnant, he will soon bear the child, give birth, and leave.
"Alright. I'll just notify you once the results are out. Take care of yourself, Jeonghan. By the way, your mom already woke up and she's been looking for you. I already gave her the letter saying that you went abroad for work and your pictures during your graduation. Once she fully recovers, she will move to a new home bought by Seungcheol for her."
Seungcheol?
"Well then, I'll leave now."
Jeonghan was left dumbfounded.
Just why, Seungcheol?
____
"Hello, Jeonghan! Let's eat breakfast.", Meredith greeted him as he walked out of his room. He immediately looked at the woman beside Meredith and that woman smiled at him warmly.
"Oh, I forgot to introduce you to her. This is Catherine, my fiancé. Catherine, this is Jeonghan. Seungcheol's lover."
Jeonghan blushed, he tried to hide the embarrassment he felt. "That was just one time…"
"One time that will soon turn into countless times.", Meredith chuckled. "By the way, we moved in here just to keep you safe."
"Keep me safe? But I have Jisoo and the other helpers here."
Meredith was confused at first but she got it immediately. "Perhaps Wonwoo hasn't told you yet. You're pregnant, Jeonghan. You're carrying Seungcheol's child. And I need to pretend that it's me who's pregnant. Don't worry about anything anymore. Me and Seungcheol made sure that everybody, especially you, will be safe."
____
Jeonghan couldn't believe it. He's now bearing Seungcheol's child. He touched his tummy while looking at the flowers in his room's veranda. Seungcheol instructed Jisoo to put some there, daisies and daffodils to be exact.
"Honey… I'll give birth to you soon. By the time you grow up, I hope that you will accept him as your only parent and come to understand that even if I leave, I will always love you and your father."
Love?
Yes, he said it. He finally admitted it. But he's scared, too scared to let Seungcheol know.
____
"How's he?", Seungcheol asked.
"Don't you have his number? Can't you call him?", Meredith answered, clearly teasing Seungcheol. They're currently on a video call since Seungcheol hasn't gone back yet.
"No but seriously. You need to talk to him. I don't think Jeonghan is just in it because of the contract."
Seungcheol stayed silent. He knows he has feelings for Jeonghan. He even confessed to him during his graduation dinner.
But he lied.
"You love him, don't you?"
Love?
"I don't know, Meredith. I have never been in love before. When my heart flutters whenever he's with me, is it considered as love? Is being afraid of him leaving considered as love? Is wanting to see him everyday considered as one? Is wanting to make him smile, wanting to take away his worries, wanting to offer him the world considered as love?"
Meredith leaned back and smiled. She has known Seungcheol for years and this is the first time she has seen the latter have that kind of expression on him.
"You have your answer, Cheol."
____
It's 12 midnight and Jeonghan couldn't sleep. He tried tossing and turning on his bed but it was no use.
"I'm thirsty.", He said while getting up on his bed. He carefully went out of his room, not wanting to wake anyone up. As soon as he got out, he saw a figure walking towards him. It was dark so he could not see who it was.
"Jisoo? Is that you?"
The figure continued walking towards him and suddenly he recognized the scent.
"Hannie…"
Seungcheol looked tired but his face immediately lit up when he saw Jeonghan.
"I'm home."
Jeonghan's mind went completely blank. He forgot that he's thirsty, he forgot that his hair and clothes were disheveled. Everything became a blur and his focus was only on Seungcheol. Nothing else.
He threw away all his inhibitions and gladly hugged the latter tight.
"I missed you."
"I missed you, too."
Seungcheol, in that moment, had a realization. He's home now.
____
Jeonghan and Seungcheol talked about a lot of things that night. They cleared their misunderstandings and decided to be true to each other.
"I'm sorry if I suddenly disappeared after that night. I needed to go abroad because my dad almost died. He had a cardiac arrest and is now being treated in the hospital. I also needed to fix a lot of things."
Jeonghan leaned on Seungcheol whose arms are now draped on his shoulder. "It's okay. I understand. The time you spent away made me realize that--"
"Wait!", Seungcheol interrupted Jeonghan. "Please don't say a word. Hear me out first." He stood up and kneeled in front of Jeonghan. "I know I only said that I like you. It was vague, and I know it burdened you. But I wasn't sure of what I was feeling before. I like you, that's true. But before I realized, my feelings were way more deeper than to be described as 'like'."
Seungcheol was shaking at that point so Jeonghan decided to hold his hand. "Up until now I feel guilty, I feel sorry for dragging you into this mess. But still, even if the means of meeting you were so wrong, I am grateful that this situation led me to you, to knowing someone wonderful like you. And to top it all, you're now bearing my child."
"Jeonghan," Seungcheol kissed his hand and continued, "I cannot promise you a smooth ride. It's going to be tough but I promise it will be worth it. I will endlessly prove to you that if we give this a chance, if we fight for this, I will never leave your side."
Jeonghan can't say anything. Instead, he pulled Seungcheol into a hug and gave him a kiss on his lips.
"I get it. I get it now. I don't want to admit this because I'm scared… I'm so scared, Seungcheol.", Jeonghan's grip on Seungcheol's shirt tightened as he continued. "I am nobody, I am just an omega. To be loved by someone like you is something that I can never imagine."
"But I am here now…", Seungcheol said as he tried to erase Jeonghan's doubts.
"I know, Cheol. I know. I just don't know what to do when someone or something tries to get in our way. What if I can never be someone you need? I can never be someone whom you can spend your life with? I can never be someone--"
Seungcheol didn't let Jeonghan finish. Instead, he kissed him deeply, passionately. Their kiss was full of love, full of sincerity, something only lovers would share.
"I love you, Jeonghan."
Jeonghan looked at Seungcheol with tears in his eyes. "I… I love you too."
"That's all I need to know.", Seungcheol said with a smile. "We're going to make this work."
____
The months that passed by were bliss. Seungcheol and Jeonghan grew closer overtime, Meredith and Catherine were always there to help the couple, Jisoo and Wonwoo made sure that Jeonghan won't be having a hard time during his pregnancy.
"What would you name our babies?", Seungcheol asked while stroking Jeonghan's hair, who's now laying down on his chest. Ever since they confessed to each other, Seungcheol decided that Jeonghan should sleep beside him every night. Meredith even joked that Jeonghan should have longer patience since he's the first boyfriend Seungcheol had and the latter would have a lot of demands, whims, and wishes.
"I was thinking about… Daisy and Daffodil.", Jeonghan whispered with a smile. They learned that Jeonghan is carrying not only one but two babies in him.
"Oh, you mean the flowers I asked Jisoo to put in your room?"
"Yeah. But why daisies and daffodils?"
Seungcheol hugged Jeonghan. "Innocence, rebirth, and new beginnings. That is what you are and what you have given to me when you came to my life. Your innocence by loving your mom so much to the point that you're willing to sacrifice everything… You who made me realize that I am capable of loving someone… that I can have a new beginning with someone so dear to me… that's what you are, Jeonghan. And I'm really grateful that you're here with me. I'll always thank whoever god there is above for giving me you and our children."
Jeonghan was speechless. How can someone with a beautiful soul like Seungcheol love him this much? He caressed Seungcheol's face and kissed him.
"I love you, Seungcheol."
Seungcheol smiled at him between their kisses. "I love you too, Jeonghan."
____
Jeonghan woke up without Seungcheol beside him. He went out of the room only to find out that no one was at home. Instead, he saw a note saying that he should get dressed and someone will pick him up at 4 pm.
"It's my birthday…", he whispered.
He hurriedly washed up and prepared. It's only 2 in the afternoon but he doesn't want to be late. Seungcheol is really sweet, he can and will do anything just to make Jeonghan smile.
A few more minutes passed and he heard someone ringing the doorbell. Good thing he's already dressed up.
"Just a second!"
He hurriedly walked towards the door, still mindful of his steps since it's his last month of pregnancy and he didn't want anything bad to happen to him or his babies. As soon as he opened the door, he was surprised with what he saw.
"Jeonghan Yoon, right?"
It was Seungcheol's father.
"Sir… come--come inside."
"Oh no. I don't need to. I just came here to tell you one thing. Stay away from my son."
Jeonghan was scared, too scared that even his hands were trembling but he said with a confident voice. "I'm sorry, sir, I'm afraid I can't do that. I love your son."
Seungcheol's father laughed mockingly. "Love? You know I can sue you with this, right? Seungcheol is married to Meredith."
"Married to someone he doesn't love? Married to someone only for business purposes and whom he's going to divorce after a couple of months or years?"
Seungcheol's father was taken aback but he showed his authority. "You think your courage would make me falter? If you don't want to stay away from my son, I'll do everything in my power to strip off Seungcheol's position and riches. After all, I'm still his father. Do you really think my son could live with someone like you? Someone who's a nobody? An omega?", Seungcheol's father snickered. "How sure are you that my son would continue loving you if I remove the things that he was used to growing up? Can you give him power? Money? Are you sure that Seungcheol won't end up like your father?"
That was the last straw. Jeonghan did everything he could to remain strong but the mere mention of his past, of his father made him weak.
"This would be my first and last warning. Give birth and stay away from my son."
With those last words, Seungcheol's father left.
All the reassurance, all the promises, all of those things were replaced with doubts and fear. He loves Seungcheol so much and he can't bear to be selfish to the point where he will be the cause of his lover's burdens.
Jeonghan tried to wipe away his tears but he couldn't stop crying. He cried until he was exhausted and finally, he passed out.
____
Jeonghan woke up in Seungcheol's room. He saw Wonwoo who's checking up on him.
"Jeonghan. How are you feeling?"
Jeonghan tried to recall what happened. He pursed his lips and tried to think of an alibi to cover up the reason why he passed out.
"I… I think I was just exhausted, that's why I passed out."
"It's almost near your due date. With what happened today, I would suggest that you proceed with the operation within the week. We can do it tomorrow or the day after. I asked Seungcheol about this and he said that we would oblige with your decision."
Jeonghan doesn't want to think about anything anymore. "We can do it tomorrow, doc."
"Okay. We will do it in one of the private hospitals near the mansion. Make sure to get enough rest."
"I will, doc. Thank you."
Seungcheol entered the room as soon as Wonwoo left.
"Hey… how are you feeling?"
Jeonghan smiled. That face… he's not sure until when he will see that angelic face. He's really sure by now he will never get over this man, nor will he stop loving him.
"I think I was just too excited since I knew you prepared a surprise for me."
Seungcheol chuckled. "Was it too obvious?"
"Of course. I already know you well by now."
Seungcheol sat beside him and hugged him. "Wonwoo said you agreed to go on with the operation tomorrow. Are you sure you're ready to give birth?"
"Yes… I already want to see our babies."
"Meredith and I already filed the divorce papers. Soon, our marriage will no longer have power over us and all of us can live happily together with the ones we love.", Seungcheol said while leaving a kiss on Jeonghan's forehead.
Jeonghan tried to keep his tears in. If only things were that easy…
They stayed silent while hugging each other for a while when he felt something cold slip on his ring finger.
"What's--what's this?"
"Happy birthday, my Jeonghan. Let this ring be a symbol of our love and a promise that no matter what happens, my heart will be yours."
Jeonghan didn't say anything. He felt that if he said another word, it would just be a lie. He didn't want to leave Seungcheol but he knew he should.
If this would be their last night together then he would bury it deep in his heart and memory forever.
____
"Jeonghan… I don't want to do this.", Jisoo muttered under his breath.
"Please, Jisoo. Just this once."
Jisoo does not and cannot understand why Jeonghan is asking for this kind of favor from him.
"Does Seungcheol know about this?"
"No…"
"Oh my god I want to smack your head so bad right now. You know you can open this up with him, right? You can and you should talk this out with him."
"Jisoo…", Jeonghan weakly smiled. "Remember what you told me when we first met? When I asked you to sit down with me while I was eating? Servants know their places. I was so stupid to believe that our worlds would meet and would magically become equal."
"Jeonghan…" Jisoo held his hand and continued. "Are you really sure you want to do this?"
"Yeah. Prepare a flight for me and my mom after my operation."
____
The operation was a success. Jeonghan gave birth to two healthy twins. Never did he imagine giving birth to a child and now that he did, it was an incredible experience.
But of course, that experience was short-lived.
"Jeonghan," Seungcheol kissed his forehead, "take a rest, okay? You will be discharged tomorrow. I need to go back to the office to sort out some things. I'll be back later in the evening. I love you."
Jeonghan was silent. He doesn't want Seungcheol to go at first because this will be the last time that they will be together. Still, he just held the latter's hand and bid him goodbye.
"I love you so much, Seungcheol. So much."
Seungcheol smiled warmly. "I love you too. I love you and our daughters so much."
When Seungcheol left, Jeonghan immediately called Jisoo.
"I'll meet mom at the airport. Make sure to bring her there."
"Are you really sure you'd do this? Jeonghan, you can still change your mind."
"I don't want to deprive Seungcheol of the life he deserves. Besides, this is what was originally stated in the contract. I will leave once I give birth."
"Fine. But don't forget to contact me once you land, okay? I don't want to lose my friend."
Jeonghan smiled sadly. "Of course… I will."
Before Jeonghan left the hospital, he went to see his babies in the nursery.
"Daisy, Daffodil, I'm so sorry."
Jeonghan couldn't hold back his tears anymore. He cried as he spoke to his daughters.
"I love you both and your dad so much… so much even to the point that I needed to bear this pain and burden. I don't want you to experience the life I have had. I want you to live an easy life, a life free from judgement and poverty."
He wiped his tears and continued. "We might not see each other again but I promise I will always love you and hold you dear in my heart."
With that, Jeonghan left.
____
Seungcheol was so excited to see Jeonghan. He finally finished all his pending work, all of the things needed for him and Meredith to live independently. Their divorce was uncontested so it only took a month to get processed. He drove to the hospital to deliver the good news. Finally, he is free. Finally, he can be with Jeonghan.
When he got to the hospital, he was shocked to see an empty room. Still, he tried to search for Jeonghan in each and every corner of the hospital. But it was to no avail. He immediately called Jisoo to ask where Jeonghan went.
"I'm sorry, Seungcheol…"