Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The music was loud and insufferable. Arthur threw back the rest of his beer, dropped the bottle in the recycling and grabbed another on his way out to the terrace.

He loathed office parties. Mainly because he loathed his office, he loathed loud music, he loathed dancing, and he loathed everyone in his office. Especially Francis. He scanned the crowd from behind the glass doors as he plucked a cigarette from the pack in his breast pocket.

Francis was standing in the middle of the room making a fool of himself as always. Arthur rolled his eyes. He watched as the omega danced with their coworker Toni. Grinded was probably a better description, Arthur thought to himself, as the omega's movements were far too scandalous to be classed as anything less.

The alpha turned around and scoffed as he tried his best to put the image of Francis out of his mind and concentrate on the view below of the city at night. He took a swig of his beer. Then another. And another. Until he had finished the bottle. With a sigh, he began to turn around to collect another but stopped in his tracks at the sight of one blonde omega leaning against the door frame, ethereally backlit by the blinding LEDs inside their office.

“Arthur,” the annoyingly melodic trill of Francis’ voice as it skipped around his name made the alpha’s skin crawl.

“And I thought this night couldn’t get any worse,” Arthur snipped as he pushed his cigarette butt into the nearby ashtray, “what do you want?”

Francis pouted, “that’s no way to greet a friend," he said, the hurt in his voice sounding awfully feigned, "I only came to check on you, out here all alone while a party is going on. You must be terribly lonely.”

He took a step forward and that was when Arthur realised how much the omega was swaying, how clumsy he was on his feet. Arthur caught him just in time as he tripped over his own feet.

“Jesus Christ, Francis, how much have you had to drink?”

Francis looked up, his chin was pressed against Arthur’s chest and Arthur felt himself heat up at the sight.

“J’sais pas…” Francis mumbled.

Arthur sighed, “honestly,” as he hoisted Francis up, holding out his arms in case the omega decided to fall over spontaneously again, “are you…are you okay?”

Francis frowned at Arthur and nodded slowly before quickly shaking his head and turning around to scramble to the potted plant in the corner of the balcony.

Arthur sighed in remorse - for the fern, not the omega - as he watched the pathetic display before resignedly walking over and kneeling down next to the omega.

“Uh…there…there?” Arthur offered as he gave Francis’ back a few half hearted pats. He frowned, “your hair’s going to get covered in sick,” he chided as he pulled it out of the way.

Francis groaned as he slowly pushed himself back into an upright position. He looked at Arthur in a way that could have been apologetical but it was hard to tell in the dark.

“I think you need to go home,” Arthur told him sternly.

Francis’ features scrunched sadly at the prospect of leaving the party early but Arthur carried on determinedly, “someone should give you a lift back,” he scanned the party quickly, his lips pursing at the sight of everyone dancing around like idiots, it would be a wonder if he found a single sober person in the crowd, “or I suppose I’ll call you a taxi.”

He looked back at Francis and frowned in bewilderment to find him sniffling as tears threatened to spill from his big round blue eyes, “for heaven’s sake what’s wrong now?”

“I…I can’t go home…” he sniffed, his gaze trailing on the ground.

Arthur frowned, slightly perturbed yet unable to ignore the fright in his stomach at the thought that Francis was scared to go home for whatever reason. His mind immediately jumped from abusive alphas to dirty dealings with the mafia, “why not?”

Francis sniffed and slowly looked up at Arthur, “it’s Henri.”

Arthur’s stomach tightened, “who’s Henry?”

Francis swallowed, his bottom lip quivering, “my goldfish,” he explained with a sob, “he died this morning.”

Any sorrow he felt for Francis vanished in a second and he was staring at the omega with gritted teeth, “your goldfish?”

Francis nodded forlornly, “I loved him dearly, Arthur. He was my best friend and now…and now…” Francis’ voice cracked on each word, “he’s gone!”

Arthur blanched as the omega fell forward into his arms and sobbed into his chest, no doubt getting teary mascara stains all over his shirt.

“God, you…you’re…you’re unbe-bloody-lievable. I’m taking you home right now.”

As he tried to pry himself from Francis’ grasp, he heard Francis sniff and soon the omega was looking up at him with big round doe eyes, “I can’t go home, seeing his empty bowl, it is too painful.”

Arthur rolled his eyes, he had had just about enough of this, “look,” he tried to sound stern, “if you let me put you in a taxi now, I’ll take you to buy a new pet tomorrow.”

Francis finally let Arthur pick him up and wrap an arm around his waist, “you mean it?” He gasped through his tears.

Arthur nodded, “I mean it.”

He did not mean it since he was certain that Francis would have no recollection of their entire encounter even taking place come the morning.

He led the drunk omega through the party, smiling awkwardly at their coworkers as he made his way to the lift.

“Leaving already?” Arthur turned around after pressing the lift button to see Francis’ friend and their coworker Gil.

“Francis isn’t feeling well, I’m taking him down to get a taxi home,” he explained flatly.

“Don’t worry, Gil, Arthur is taking care of me,” Francis smiled dozily as he nuzzled into Arthur’s side. Arthur went uncomfortably rigid at the contact and forced himself to give Gil a pursed smile.

Gil nodded drunkenly in approval, “be careful with him, okay? His fish just died.”

Arthur rolled his eyes and turned into the lift with a furious scowl, “see you on Monday,” he called back dryly.

Francis waved goodbye as the lift doors closed in front of them.

“What time is it?” Francis asked tiredly.

Arthur checked his watch, “half 11.”

“That early?” Francis sighed mournfully, “I want to go back and have more alcohol.”

“No. No you don’t,” Arthur told him sternly, “you want to go home and go to bed.”

Francis nuzzled against Arthur’s shoulder, “bed.”

“My shoulder is not your bed,” Arthur told him through gritted teeth.

The lift doors opened with a ding and Arthur dragged them both out the front door and called a taxi. They waited in the cold and of course Francis had to be as dramatic with his shivering as he was with everything else.

“Bloody hell,” Arthur grumbled as he shimmied out of his jacket and draped it over Francis’ shoulders, “why didn’t you bring a coat?”

Francis shrugged sadly as he pulled Arthur’s jacket tight around his shoulders.

Arthur pursed his lips and grumbled something vaguely irritated sounding, “bring a coat next time.”

The taxi arrived quickly and Arthur helped Francis into the backseat. He turned to give the cabdriver Francis’ address before realising he had no idea what it was.

“Where do you live?” He asked Francis.

“Straight ahead, turn left…”

“No, you blithering idiot! What’s your address?”

“Ah,” Francis chuckled thoughtlessly before giving it to the alpha.

He closed Francis’ door and took a step back as the driver entered Francis’ details into his satnav. He was about to turn back into the building when he saw Francis’ head lol to the side as he fell asleep. Arthur pursed his lips before sighing exasperatedly, more so at himself and the fact he couldn’t stop worrying about things that probably shouldn’t matter to him.

“For heaven’s sake,” he muttered as he threw open the door and scowled at Francis who was now blinking awake, “bunk over.”

Francis did as he was told and turned to blink tiredly at the alpha as Arthur muttered, “I suppose I should make sure you get home safely.”

Francis’ smile made Arthur’s face heat up furiously and he couldn’t bring himself to look at it. He told himself he was only going to see him to his front door but when even that proved too challenging for the inebriated omega, Arthur found himself stomping out of the taxi and up the stairs to the front door of Francis’ building. He was having a bit of trouble with his key, it seemed it didn’t fit into the hole.

“God, you’re a mess,” Arthur tutted as he snatched Francis’ key and opened his front door for him, “I presume you’ll be fine from here?”

Francis swayed with uncertainty on his feet, “what if the key to my flat does not fit either?”

Arthur rolled his eyes and released a groan before turning back to the cab, “I’ll be five minutes!” He shouted before pushing Francis into his building and shutting the door behind them.

He trudged over to the lift, “what’s your floor? can you remember that much?”

He glanced over his shoulder only to see Francis swaying at the base of the stairwell, “lift’s broken, I live on the fourth floor.”

Arthur’s heart sank and his feet started to ache preemptively, “Jesus Christ. Fine, let’s get moving.”

He trudged up behind Francis and, when the omega tripped up the first step, wrapped an arm begrudgingly around his waist in support.

Francis let his head fall onto the alpha's shoulder briefly, “merci, Arthur.”

“Don't mention it,” he grumbled, embarrassedly.

When they reached Francis’ door, Arthur still had his key so he opened it for them. Francis pointed them to his bedroom and Arthur dropped the omega onto his bed. He then went to fill a glass with water and returned to leave it on Francis’ night stand.

Arthur found Francis not in his bed but sitting on his windowsill, gazing out of his window. He set the glass down on Francis’ bedside table and cleared his throat to mark his presence.

“Well,” he shuffled awkwardly, “I should be going.”

“Stay…” Francis turned to look at him pleadingly.

Arthur opened his mouth, closed it, then opened it again, “the taxi driver will be waiting for me.”

Francis looked out of his window and then back to Arthur, “he’s gone.”

“What?” Arthur stomped over to the window to find that Francis wasn’t lying, “that bastard.”

Francis chuckled softly as he stood up next to Arthur, “stay here tonight,” he offered.

Arthur frowned.

“I have a sofa…or we can share my bed.”

Arthur’s frown deepened, was Francis flirting with him? Well, Francis was always flirting with him -at the office. But then again Francis was always flirting with everyone. Arthur took a step back, “I…wouldn’t want to impose.”

“I’ve been imposing on you all night,” Francis said as he took a step forward, “it’s the least I could do.”

Arthur tried to argue against it, he opened his mouth to deny one more time but nothing came out but a soft pathetic gasp as Francis got so uncomfortably close that Arthur started to heat up. When their lips brushed against each other’s, he didn’t stop it and when their bodies rubbed against each other’s he didn’t pull them apart and when Francis lowered his hand and started palming at Arthur’s quickly growing erection, he didn’t stop him. Oh god, why wasn’t he stopping him?

Arthur gasped, his stomach in knots and his heart beating deafeningly, as Francis guided them to his bed and they fell onto each other in a tangle of limbs.

Francis pulled his lips away from Arthur’s and started undoing his shirt as he whispered in Arthur’s ear, “I want you to knot me.”

God. Jesus.

Arthur swallowed as he looked at Francis. God he was hot. He was sexy and beautiful and Arthur had tried to ignore it, chalked it up as nothing more than conventional beauty; nothing Arthur himself truly found attractive.

He had been lying to himself of course. Francis was an angel. He was the most beautiful omega Arthur had ever met and he had pictured this moment more times than he liked to admit, each night when he was at home alone with his right hand, a box of tissues, and a Facebook tab open to Francis’ profile.

Arthur could only gasp as the omega shuffled down slyly to remove Arthur’s trousers and underwear, leaving no obstacles in between his mouth and Arthur’s cock. He pushed it to the back of his throat straight away and Arthur probably sounded like a virgin having sex for the first time with the stuttered sound of his gasping.

“God…Francis…ahh…”

He shut his eyes and let his head fall back as Francis sucked and deepthroated him.

“Bloody hell, you’re good at this.”

Francis let Arthur’s cock slip from his mouth just as Arthur felt himself come close. Arthur looked down at him and watched as the omega licked his lips and began taking his own clothes off.

As he stood to slide his trousers off, Arthur realised the omega hadn’t been wearing any underwear and something within him stirred at the realisation.

“Fuck. You're...hot...” Arthur found himself admitting reluctantly.

Francis smirked as he leaned down to grab something from his bottom draw and Arthur groaned desperately at the sight of his ass bent over like that. He stood up again and crawled on top of Arthur before handing him a ribbed condom.

“Does that mean you want to fuck me now?” Francis asked as he grinded his hips against Arthur’s erection. He pouted, “I feel so empty without you.”

Arthur shuddered before quickly taking the condom from Francis. He threw the man onto his back and Francis grinned at him. He ripped the condom packet open with his teeth and impatiently rolled it over his rock hard cock.

“Fuck me,” Francis begged and Arthur did as he was told.

The omega’s moans were soft and feminine and everything Arthur had imagined them to be. He was practically growling as he thrust inside Francis, his breath shuddering as he slid all the way to the base of his cock.

“Fran…” he gasped as he felt the omega tightening around him.

He leaned down to kiss Francis’ neck. When he was younger, he had always silently disapproved of hickies and love marks but right now, he understood. He wanted to mark Francis as his own. He wanted him to walk into work on Monday and for everyone to see that he belonged to him.

Francis’ moans were like music to his ears but he wanted more, he wanted to make him scream his name and claw at his back and utterly lose his mind with pleasure.

In one movement, he had one hand under Francis’ thigh and the other supporting his back as he carried him across Francis’ bedroom. They landed with a thud against Francis’ wall and Francis screamed as Arthur pounded into him.

“Ar…thur…” Francis moaned as Arthur kissed his neck.

Arthur groaned in pleasure as he felt Francis dig his nails into his back, oddly excited at the prospect of him leaving marks.

“God, Francis…I…I'm going to...c...”

Arthur could barely get the words out between gasps and when he felt Francis tighten his legs around his waist and whisper in his ear, “cum for me,” he couldn’t contain himself and spilled inside Francis with a shuddering moan.

He looked down after a second of catching his breath to see that Francis had come across their chests.

“Jesus…bloody…Christ…Francis…”

Francis smirked and kissed Arthur gently on the lips before Arthur shuffled them over to Francis’ bed. His sheets were soft and warm and as soon as Arthur’s head hit the pillow, he fell asleep with the omega wrapped in his arms and his cock inflated in his ass.

Chapter Text

Francis woke up slowly and stretched in his bed, kicking his legs out beneath his sheet and wiggling his toes. He groaned slightly at the sensation of a familiar ache in his ass. He smiled as the memories of last night flooded back to him. His smile fell when he turned over to find the other side of the bed empty and that was when he could smell it, something interesting wafting through the hall from what Francis could only assume was the kitchen.

He got out of bed gently, mindful of his sore backside and threw on his silk dressing gown before following the smell to his kitchen. He found Arthur standing at his stove, back to him, humming the tune to a song he vaguely recognised as something by the Beatles.

“What are you making?” He asked as he glided across to Arthur’s side.

Arthur startled slightly and Francis found it quite adorable. He smiled at him and the alpha smiled back awkwardly.

“I thought I’d make you an omelette. To say thank you for letting me stay last night.”

Francis watched Arthur poke his spatula around a frying pan of congealed egg and cheese, his eyes opened wide in surprise; omelette would certainly not have been his first guess of what was residing inside that frying pan.

“It smells…lovely,” he lied before turning away to switch his coffee machine on.

Arthur quickly stopped him.

“I made you some coffee already,” he smiled awkwardly and motioned to the steaming mug that Francis hadn’t noticed sitting right next to him.

“Ah,” he looked between the mug and Arthur in surprise before smiling pleasantly, “merci, Arthur.”

Francis almost didn’t catch the triumphant twinge to the alpha’s smile as he turned back to his ‘omelette’ and it made him smile too. Unfortunately, it was short lived and his face contorted into a grimace as soon as he brought the coffee to his lips. It took all he had in him not to stick his tongue out at the taste.

“How is it?” He heard Arthur call and he turned around to smile at the alpha.

“Oui…mm…it is perhaps a little strong for me.”

“Ah, well I’ve never made coffee before.”

Francis could certainly tell. He gave Arthur a tight lipped smile as he shovelled more spoonfuls of sugar into his mug than he could count. Behind him, Arthur cut up his omelette and plated it up for them.

“Bon appétit,” Arthur smiled and Francis couldn’t help but be charmed at the alpha's cute English accent.

Francis sat opposite Arthur at his small kitchen table, setting his coffee down beside his plate before he took an experimental bite of the cheesy egg disaster that Arthur had tried to pass off as an omelette.

“What do you think?” Arthur asked expectantly.

Francis nodded and made various pleased sounding hums, deciding that it was too early in the morning to start being mean. Instead of answering outright, he changed the subject, “you’re still coming with me to buy a new pet?”

Arthur almost dropped his fork, “pardon?”

“You said you would last night.”

“I don’t recall,” Arthur said, averting his eyes in a way that told Francis he most certainly did recall.

“Last night,” Francis explained with an innocent smile, “you said you’d take me to get a new pet if I let you come home with me.”

Arthur sputtered on his glass of water, “I…that’s…you…that is most certainly not how it happened,” Arthur snipped.

Francis had to bite his lip to stop himself from smiling, “so you were just lying to get in my pants?”

“That is not…” Arthur floundered indignantly, “I wasn’t…that wasn’t why I offered. I was just…I was only trying to get you home. Ah…not to…to get in your…ah…”

Although it was quite adorable, Francis couldn’t in good faith let him go on like that. He leant forward to place a hand over Arthur’s, “you don’t have to come with me. But I could use the moral support,” the omega fluttered his eyelashes for good measure.

Arthur groaned quietly as he eyed Francis’ display suspiciously, “I suppose so,” he sighed.

Francis smiled in astonishment. It was a Satruday morning and Arthur could have been doing anything he wanted but, here he was, choosing Francis over what the omega could only imagine would other be the History section at Waterstones. Francis couldn’t help but grin to himself as he pushed Arthur’s cooking around on his plate. He supposed the man probably earned at least a few more bites of the omelette.

They had been at the pet shop for at least 3 hours and by that point Arthur was starting to wish he had chosen the history section at Waterstones instead.

“We’ve been here all morning,” Arthur gave a world-weary sigh as Francis gazed dolefully at the group of kittens, “why don’t you just get a cat?”

Francis turned back to Arthur and shook his head mournfully, “a cat is too much responsibility, and I am…I am just not ready for that kind of thing.”

Arthur rolled his eyes and slipped his hands in his pockets as he turned around and slouched back down the aisle. He turned to his left, “how about another fish then?”

“I don’t want Henri to feel I have just replaced him.”

Arthur sighed, too tired even to roll his eyes, “he’s dead. And a fish.”

Francis narrowed his eyes and shot Arthur a pointed glare that made him reel with an unjust amount of guilt. He shook his head, “well just pick something. Because my feet hurt and I’m bloody starving.”

As if on cue, his stomach rumbled and he raised his eyebrows pointedly at Francis who only rolled his eyes and started walking a little faster, “fine, fine,” he brushed Arthur’s grumbling off with a dismissive wave of his hand.

He stopped abruptly beside an empty birdcage causing Arthur to crash into the back of him.

“Don’t stop in the middle of the aisle, you thoughtless git,” Arthur grumbled. Even more annoyingly Francis didn’t seem to be paying attention to him, too busy staring into the empty bird cage. That wasn’t actually empty when Arthur finally looked at it.

One bird sat alone in the middle of the cage.

“It says parrots,” Francis frowned as he pointed to the sign below the cage, “but the bird is white.”

“Yes?”

Francis turned to him, “I thought parrots were supposed to be colourful.”

“Well,” Arthur pursed his lips, he didn’t know what Francis wanted him to say, “perhaps it’s mislabelled?” He offered.

Francis nodded in consideration. He stood quiet for a moment before calling out to the staff member down the aisle. Despite the smile and enthusiasm with which he answered Francis, Arthur couldn’t help feeling a little awkward for calling him over.

“It says this bird is a parrot but…it’s white? I did not know you could get parrots that colour.”

The salesman nodded, there was something sad about his expression, “that’s Pierre,” he explained, “he’s been here over a year. We used to have 5 other parrots for sale, all bright colours but he’s the only one left.” He shrugged sadly before explaining, “no one wants a white parrot.”

Arthur felt a little bad but when he turned to Francis he was shocked to see tears streaming down the omega's face.

“Fra…?”

“I’ll take him,” Francis sobbed, “I’ll take him, what else do I need?”

The bus ride home was Arthur’s definition of hell. Sitting on a crowded bus while taking up 4 seats worth of parrot supplies was the single most awkward experience of his entire life. He hated being in people’s way and things didn’t really get more in your way than this. But as he looked to his side and saw the look of utter adoration that Francis gave to Pierre, the situation became a little less unbearable.

Chapter Text

Arriving at work on a Monday morning, the first thing Francis had expected to partake in was not a seminar hosted by Human Resources on sexual harassment. Which included relationships between coworkers and how they were, while not a fireable offense, very much frowned upon.

Francis had been having fun sending teasing looks to Arthur across the conference room whenever ‘inappropriate touching’ or ‘sexual comments’ had been mentioned but as soon as the head of the HR department mentioned the restriction on relationships between coworkers, Arthur’s expression turned stoic and his attention had been drawn steadfastly towards the PowerPoint presentation.

As soon as the presentation was finished and they began streaming out of the conference room, Francis pulled Arthur aside.

“What do you want?” he snapped and Francis couldn’t help but be taken aback.

“What was that about?” the omega snapped back.

Arthur glanced at the few people still coming out of the conference room and tugged Francis further to the side and out of their way.

“What was ‘what’ about?”

“You completely ingored me in there. I thought we were having fun.”

Arthur swallowed and looked around, “Francis, shut up,” he hissed.

Francis felt his cheeks heat up and a fury build inside.

“Do not tell me to shut up, Arthur.”

“Fine,” Arthur hissed again before grabbing Francis’ sleeve, “at least let’s talk about this in private.”

There weren’t many places more private than the supply closet. Arthur flicked on the light as he pushed Francis inside.

“Look, I don’t want to get fired, Francis. And that’s all I have to say on the matter.”

Francis couldn’t help but scoff, “we won’t get fired,” he didn’t miss Arthur tightening his lips in a disapproving frown, “relationships between coworkers are only discouraged, not fireable. Or were you just pretending to listen diligently and take notes?”

Arthur shifted on his feet, “regardless, I wouldn’t call this much of a relationship. We had sex once. Drunk.”

Francis pouted while fixing his stance and placing a hand on his hip, “so you don’t want to do it again?”

Arthur’s mouth opened and closed like a floundering goldfish and Francis smirked.

“We probably shouldn’t,” the alpha finally admitted.

Francis threw his arms up, “life is too short for ‘should’s and ‘should not’s. What do you want to do?”

Francis had expected a short, definitive reply that was to the point and logical. What he got was definitely to the point but most certainly illogical coming from the alpha.

He gasped as Arthur pressed him against the shelf. It rattled behind him and a few boxes of staples fell off and crashed against the floor.

“We tell no one,” Arthur whispered aggressively as he tore his mouth away from Francis’ neck.

“Of course,” Francis agreed breathlessly.

“You’re pretty but I am not getting fired over you,” Arthur grunted as he fumbled with his belt.

Francis gasped and looked towards him lovingly, “you think I’m pretty?”

He grinned when he saw Arthur roll his eyes and moaned when the man pressed a hand to his crotch. With his other hand, he stuck two fingers into the omega’s mouth. Francis, as with everything else that got shoved into his mouth, started sucking on them. Arthur stuck his hand into his underwear and started to rub himself as he watched the omega.

“I’m going to fuck that smug little grin off your face,” Arthur said as he tugged at Francis’ own pants.

“I'd be disappointed if you didn't,” Francis chastised teasingly as he wriggled his arse out of his trousers.

He was grinning as Arthur wordlessly turned the omega around and kicked his legs apart. Without warning Arthur thrust inside to the base of his cock, clamping his hand over Francis’ mouth before the omega had the chance to scream.

“Ah ah,” Arthur smirked, “wouldn’t want anyone to hear us now, would we?”

Francis whimpered into Arthur’s hand and screwed his eyes shut. Arthur’s hand fell down quickly and Francis turned to scowled at him.

“Putain de merde! Arthur, that hurts!”

The omega had the gall to look disappointed as Arthur pulled his cock out.

“I didn’t say stop…”

With an exasperated grunt, arthur positioned his cock against Francis’ slightly slicked hole.

“Don’t scream,” Arthur told him as he pushed himself back inside.

No matter how much he would have liked to, Francis couldn’t follow Arthur’s orders and the alpha was barely able to muffle the omega's subsequent scream as his hand came down to clamp his mouth again.

“Jesus Christ, I’m going to have to get you a gag,” Arthur chided with a scowl, “here,” he sighed quickly as he tugged his tie from around his neck and stuffed it into Francis’ mouth, “bite down on this.”

Francis did as he was told.

“Don’t scream,” Arthur said roughly before adding, “but if it hurts tell me to stop.”

Francis nodded frantically as he screwed his eyes shut and bit down on Arthur’s tie. As he lifted his ass slightly he could feel the tip of Arthur’s wet cock brush against his entrance and his body lit up with adrenaline.

Arthur slid inside slowly. It hurt and Francis released a stifled, high pitched groan around the fabric in his mouth. It wasn’t the most difficult thing that Francis had tried to force up his ass without sufficient lubricant however and Arthur started to fuck him with surprising ease.

“God, you’re a slut.”

Coming from anyone else, that might have made him slightly offended but hearing Arthur whisper it in his ear as he fucked him senseless only made him aggressivley hornier.

Francis moaned into Arthur’s tie, the sound soft and pathetic. He was a slut, a slut for Arthur.

When Arthur came, Francis could feel himself filling up with the alpha's cum as his knot expanded inside him. Pleasure coursed through his veins in ripples and the omega shuddered at the warm, familiar sensation of being filled up. Losing himself completely, he came with a muffled gasp.

Breathlessly, he spat out Arthur’s tie and leaned back against the alpha.

“I really don’t think I will be able to sit down after that,” he sighed breathlessly.

“You’re a fucking drama queen,” Arthur chided with a scowl as he reached down to give Francis’ arse a squeeze.

The omega hissed and glared at Arthur, “I’m serious.”

Arthur’s expression fell and he looked slightly apologetic, his eyes darting to the ground before he looked back at Francis, “sorry.”

Francis shrugged, a dastardly smile, “it was nice.”

Arthur looked at him with a softening smile that turned pensive when he glanced past Francis’ shoulder.

“You’ve really made a mess of those toner boxes,” he tutted as he stared at the are on the shelf where the omega's had landed.

“Me?” Francis slapped a hand over his chest indignantly, “I…” he was about to argue but clamped his mouth shut when Arthur put a finger to his lips and he realised with red cheeks how loud he was being.

Arthur’s knot took a while to subside but eventually, after several minutes of quietly arguing over who's fault the mess was and ultimately decising it didn't matter and they just needed to throw it away, he was able to pull out.

“That was a lot of cum,” Francis sighed as he turned around to look at Arthur.

“I’ll try not to bloody cum so much next time then shall I?” Arthur said sarcastically with a scowl.

Francis smiled devilishly, “next time?”

Arthur rolled his eyes, “oh be quiet and pull your knickers up.”

Francis grinned. He did as he was told while Arthur turned around to pull his own trousers back up.

Francis’ trousers fit snugly around his ass and thighs, as that was how he liked it. What he didn’t like was a tight fit around the waist.

“Mon dieu, Arthur,” Francis said, a mix of panic and wonder in his voice, “you really did have a lot of cum.”

“What makes you say that?” Arthur asked with furrowed brows as he turned back around.

“Because I cannot button my trousers!”

When Arthur looked down his brows shot up, “…goodness.”

“‘Goodness’,” Francis echoed in his best impression of an English accent, “is that all you have to say? How am I supposed to go out there like this?”

Arthur furrowed his brows in thought and pursed his lips. Finally he reached down and zipped up Francis’ trousers as far as they would go, “just fasten your belt as tight as you can. They should stay up that way.”

Francis scowled at him, distinctly unimpressed.

Arthur smiled slightly as he spread a hand over Francis’ bloated stomach and chuckled, “you look pregnant.”

Francis slapped his hand away quickly, “don’t even joke about that,” he said as he made his way to the closet door.

He looked over his shoulder at Arthur as he reached for the handle. He looked as if he was about to say something but instead kept his mouth shut and rolled his eyes with a scoff before leaving Arthur to walk out an inconspicuous 10 minutes later.

To fend off boredom, he eventually resorted to browsing the backs of tip-ex bottles.

“Not recommended for internal use,” he whispered aloud.

At that moment the door swung open and their boss Ludwig walked in. He seemed surprised to see Arthur and Arthur to see him.

Ludwig nodded at Arthur in greeting who nodded back.

“Sir,” he hoped he didn’t sound too nervous as he placed the bottle of tip-ex back on the shelf and grabbed another, “we’re out of toner.”

“Francis just informed me of such.”

Arthur nodded as he moved to glide past him and make his escape.

“It’s odd,” Ludwig continued, causing Arthur to stop in his tracks, “we got a new shipment yesterday.”

Chapter Text

It was the Friday after last, a week since the office party to celebrate Mr Wittlingham’s retirement. And a week since Francis and Arthur had started their little adventure in clandestine love making. It came as a genuine shock to Arthur that Francis had not yet gotten so bored as to discard him for a new shiny toy. And he was pleasantly surprised time and again when Francis sent him looks from across the room or dropped notes onto his desk inviting him to a covert rendezvous in the supply closet.

A situation like this would probably have terrified young Arthur but this thrilled him. It brought excitement to his mind numbing existence as a salesman and though he knew he shouldn’t admit it to Francis lest he want to be teased, it made him feel an awful lot like James Bond.

“We’ve got to stop meeting like this,” Arthur grinned as he stepped into the closet and locked the door. It was dim but he could still make out the omega rolling his eyes.

He stepped towards him and wasted no time in grabbing him by the hips and grinding against him as they kissed. He lifted one hand to comb through Francis’ hair. He loved running his fingers through it; it was so soft and silky and always smelled like flowers.

Impatiently, Francis tugged open Arthur’s pants and dragged them past his hips. Arthur raised an eyebrow and grinned against Francis’ mouth. A few days ago they had hidden a box of condoms in there to avoid a repeat of the first time. It was behind the old fax machine that no one ever got out anymore and Arthur reached for it blindly. When he found it, he grabbed one and ripped the packet open before grabbing hold of his cock and stroking it.

“Suck,” he said. He knew Francis liked it when he was commanding, when he knew what he wanted and he told Francis what to do. Arthur had never really been that kind of person before but as he watched Francis kneel before him, looking up with his big blue eyes, he felt a gasp escape him and his cock twitch before Francis even put his lips to it.

Francis was good at giving head. In fact he was the best Arthur had ever had. Arthur had to slap a hand over his own mouth to suppress the sounds he was making as Francis sucked and licked and deepthroated his cock.

He looked down to see the omega gazing up at him with lust filled eyes and he nearly came right there.

“Fra…Fran…” Arthur gasped desperately, “st…stop I’m going to cum…I want to fuck you.”

But Francis didn't stop and the alpha began to see white. Without thinking, he grabbed a fistful of Francis’ hair as he came and yanked so hard on the omega's hair that his dick fell from Francis’ lips. The cum that should have been down the omega's throat had landed across his face but he also didn't have a knot stuck in his mouth so he couldn't be that upset.

Francis looked up at the alpha as he licked the white substance from around his mouth, whiping his thumb across his cheeks and draggin his tongue across it to lick up the alpha's seed. Arthur had to steady himself against the wall.

Francis tutted, “really Arthur? All over my face? You’re lucky I carry tissues.”

He patted his pockets and frowned when they turned up empty.

“Here,” Arthur offered as he tugged his handkerchief from his pocket, “use my hankie.”

“How very chivalrous,” Francis remarked as he took the square of fabric from Arthur and wiped his face.

“I do apologise for that, I think I just got a bit…lost in the moment.”

Francis smiled at him coyly and when the omega's face was clean, Arthur cupped it and brought them together in a kiss.

“Thanks for that,” he smiled awkwardly, “do you want…?”

Francis shook his head with a delicate smile, “non, I have some papers I need to file before the end of the day,” he turned to leave the closet and Arthur smiled wistfully after him before he turned back to ask, “you are coming to mine tonight, though?”

Arthur nodded enthusiastically.

Francis’ favourite thing about their new arrangement was the new way in which he could tease Arthur. He watched the young alpha at his desk as he paid scrupulous attention to something on his computer screen. Arthur was always a hard worker. The complete opposite of Francis who had gotten by most of his life on the bare minimum. It wasn’t that he didn’t try hard, it was that he didn’t need to; most things in his life came effortlessly to him. Including job offers, promotions, and relationships. Even this little fling with Arthur had fallen quite neatly into his lap.

Francis sighed, loudly and dramatically. Arthur didn’t even flinch. So he sighed again and this time when Arthur continued to ignore him, purposefully or not, he kicked the side of his desk.

“What? What do you want now?”

Francis supressed the grin that came automatically at the knowledge that he had gotten under Arthur’s skin and replaced it with an agitated pout as he explained, “I need your help,” his tone turned saccharine sweet, “I think I accidentally shipped 15,000 stacks of paper to our branch in Birmingham and I don’t know how it happened. I need you to reverse it for me.”

He knew exactly how it had happened and he knew exactly how to reverse it but telling Arthur that wouldn’t have been half as fun.

“Jesus bloody Christ, Francis,” Arthur huffed as he hurried from his desk to Francis’. He leaned over him while the omega leaned back in his chair to admire the view. Arthur wasn’t the most muscular alpha that Francis had ever been with but he had broad shoulders and strong arms. Despite the fact it was almost winter outside, inside the office it was boiling and Arthur had his sleeves rolled up to the elbow. It was an attractive sight. And one Francis was going to relish.

“What the bloody hell were you doing?” Arthur hissed as he clicked and typed furiously at Francis’ keyboard.

“I have no idea, Arthur,” Francis lied, intense pain in his voice and a dramatically forlorn frown on his face, “the notification just came up and suddenly I realised what had happened.”

“Your idiocy never fails to astound me,” Arthur sighed sharply as he continued tapping away on Francis’ keyboard.

Francis smirked. The intensity of Arthur's insults were usually directly correlated with how annoyed he was and from his tone, Francis could tell he was especially wound up. He chuckled.

Arthur rested one hand on the desk while his other was caught in an intense battle with the mouse. Slyly, Francis reached out to slip his hands around the arm that was leaning against the desk. The alpha's arm was nicely flexed and Francis could just make out the outline of his bicep through his shirt. He ran a hand over it.

“Oh la la,” he gasped, “Arthur, have you been working out?”

The blush on Arthur’s face made Francis smirk.

“Francis, I don’t have time for your sexual harassment. I’m trying to fix your mess.”

“Mon coeur, it is only harassment if one does not derive pleasure from it.”

Francis squeezed Arthur’s bicep and revelled in the bright colour that it made the alpha's ears turn.

Arthur screwed his eyes shut before making a curt turn and storming off, “I’m going to get Ludwig.”

Francis chuckled before quickly clicking the delivery problem away.

“Arthur,” he called, rolling the r a lot more than he needed to, “I fixed it!”

“Wha…what?” Arthur gasped in indignant surprise as he rushed back to Francis’ desk, “how? What? How?”

Francis smiled innocently, “I am not sure, I think you did most of the work though.”

Arthur’s glare made Francis’ stomach do flips and he bit his lip to stop from grinning.

“You are insufferable,” Arthur told him flatly as he took his spot at his own desk and Francis let himself grin triumphantly.

Francis enjoyed being insufferable. He enjoyed making Arthur’s life a misery. To a certain extent of course. He didn’t like to see Arthur genuinely upset but to see him suitably hot and bothered all thanks to the omega and his antics was a lot fo fun.

Naturally, this included stuffing his hand down Arthur’s trousers during a staff meeting on sales reports. Or accounting reports. Francis wasn’t really paying attention.

They were sitting around a conference table while their manager, Ludwig, gave his overview. Arthur was sitting by Francis’ side, red in the face and furiously biting his bottom lip while the omega was studiously hanging on Ludwig's every word. Or so his neutral expression would have his coworkers believe.

By now he knew exactly how to touch Arthur in a way that could make him come in no more than 3 minutes but of course Francis wasn’t going to make things that easy for him. He saw Arthur scrunch up the papers in his hand out of the corner of his eye as the omega pressed his thumb into the end of his cock and squeezed firmly.

“Jesus," Francis heard him hiss.

Every head around the conference table turned to him. Including Francis’ which was decorated with an innocent look of interest and worry.

“Do you have a complaint you wish to share, Arthur?” Ludwig asked with genuine concern.

Arthur looked up, his eyes wide and his cheeks bright red.

“No,” he gasped, “I just…I think I’m getting a migraine,” he clutched his head for dramatic effect, “I should get a glass of water.”

He tried to stand up but Francis was feeling devious and kept firm hold of his cock. Arthur gasped softly.

“Or not,” he stuttered before nodding to Ludwig, “carry on, Sir.”

Ludwig regarded him for a moment before turning his attention back to the screen behind him and Francis could see the tension release from Arthur’s shoulders only to build up again as Francis began gliding his fist up and down his cock.

Francis had to give Arthur his credit, he had an excellent poker face. He supposed the poor boy didn’t deserve much more suffering and so he quickened his pace until he knew Arthur was just writhing beneath his perfectly polished exterior.

Arthur came, not with a gasp or a curse or a shout of Francis’ name like he usually would, but with a hand grasped firmly on Francis’ thigh. His grip was so tight that Francis was expecting bruises the next day.

That evening Arthur had to ‘work late’ and it just so happened that Francis also had to ‘work late’ until they were the only two left on their floor. Ludwig, as always, was the last to leave and Francis waved goodbye as he pretended to type at his keyboard. He looked up again and was startled to see Arthur looming over his desk.

“Arthur,” he gasped.

“You bloody bastard,” Arthur scowled, “that was too far. That was too fucking far, Francis.”

Francis grinned, “what are you going to do about it?”

“You’re…god…” Arthur’s words fizzled out into a completely deranged and indignant growl, “I am going to fuck you so hard that you really won’t be able to walk this time.”

Francis’ eyebrows flicked up quickly, “have at it.”

That was all it took and in seconds Arthur had pounced on him and was tearing off his shirt. His hands were eager and his mouth even more so as he dove for Francis’ neck, kissing and biting and sucking hungrily. Francis moaned, louder than he had ever dared in their office.

Francis gazed at Arthur through a cloud of lust as they tugged their clothes off, “my desk or yours?” Francis asked with a sly grin.

Arthur answered by pushing past Francis to swipe the papers from the omega's desk onto the floor, “yours.”

Francis smirked, “is that my punishment for the conference room? Picking up papers off the floor?”

“No,” Arthur grunted before shoving Francis around and bending him over his desk, “this is.”

Arthur was ruthless. Francis moaned as loud as he could until Arthur clamped a hand over his mouth.

“Now, now,” Arthur chided in Francis’ ear, “we wouldn’t want to disturb anyone on the floor below, would we?”

Francis nudged Arthur’s hand away and glared at Arthur with a sultry smile, “you really have an obsession with gagging me, don’t you?”

“I would do it even when I wasn’t fucking you if I could.”

Francis gave Arthur a cheeky grin that was gone in a flash as Arthur grabbed his dick and shoved it inside Francis in one thrust. The omega let out a silent scream, his throat closed up and his eyes shut tight as he clung to the edge of the desk.

“Mon…dieu…” he gasped as he felt Arthur grab hold of his hips and thrust forcefully. It burned slightly and Francis grinned at the pain.

When Arthur finished with him, his knot inflating inside the omega, he slapped his arse before pinning Francis on the desk with a kiss.

“I think I might start working late every night,” Francis said breathlessly as Arthur collapsed onto Francis’ desk.

“God no,” Arthur chided once he had caught his breath, “this was far too risky. It’s not happening again.”

Francis pouted, “life’s no fun without a little risk.”

Chapter Text

Francis had been acting odd all day. He was extremely late to work for a start, he was hardly speeking to Arthur and when he did, he seemed evasive and the alpha was barely able to coax one word answers from him, and to top it all off he hadn’t even made on attempt to rile Arthur up. Something must have been gravely wrong.

He saw Francis get up and walk towards the supply closet. He gave no signal to Arthur as he usually would, so the alpha figured he must have actually been going to get supplies but after 10 minutes of staring at the omega's empty seat, he decided to go an invesitgate.

When the alpha opened the door, his blood ran cold. Francis, his blonde hair pushed against the shelves, his arms wrapped around Gilbert’s chest, his hands grasping desperately onto the fabric of the other alpha's shirt while his sweaty face was pressed against his chest.

He slammed the door immediately and walked away.

“What was that?” Francis asked as he looked up, “it sounded like the door closing.”

“Someone probably just walked in,” Gil reassured him gently. Francis sniffed and the alpha raised a hand to wipe at his face, “are you feeling any better?”

Francis shrugged in reply.

Gil smiled softly, “want more hugs?”

Francis nodded as more tears streamed down his cheeks.

Gil pulled him into another tight hug and rubbed his back, “it’s gonna be okay. It’s gonna be okay. Arthur’s a great guy. I know he’ll support you 100%.”

“I know,” Francis sniffed as he rubbed the end of his sleeve against his eye, “I just…I don’t want to ruin his life.”

“Fran, it’s a baby,” Gil smiled reassuringly, “not a death sentence.”

Francis released a shaky sigh, “I suppose you’re right,” he sighed again more deeply this time, “I should go and tell him shouldn’t I?”

“Probably,” Gil nodded, “but if you’re not ready, don’t rush it. Do it on your own time.”

“I think I’m ready,” Francis sighed as he gave Gil a weak smile, “it’s like ripping off a plaster, n’est ce pas?”

Gil smiled warmly and the omega gave the alpha a teary eyed half smile in return before heaving a deep sigh. He balled his hands into fists and blew the air from his lungs in a steady, calming stream before wiping at his damp cheeks.

"How do I look?" he asked his friend.

His eyes were puffy, his cheeks red and it was hard for an alpha like Gil not to smell the clear distress in the omega's scent.

He pursed his lips and smiled, "you look great."

The omega made his way back to his desk and smiled weakly at Arthur as he sat down. Francis hadn't expected the alpha to leap from his chair and jump for joy at seeing the omega but he had expected a small smile in return or at least some form of acknowledgement that didn't entail staring sullenly at his computer screen.

“Arthur,” Francis croaked, his voice sounding pathetically hoarse.

Arthur turned to him and sneered. Francis was a little taken aback. Perhaps the alpha was in a bad mood. Perhaps this wasn’t the time to tell him.

No, he thought, if he didn’t tell him now then he never would.

“Can I talk to you?” Francis asked, pleading evident in his tone, “in private.”

Arthur got up slowly after grumbling something that Francis didn’t catch before ushering for Francis to lead the way with an, “after you.”

Francis took them to the terrace. It didn’t give them much privacy through the glass doors but when they were closed they were virtually sound proof.

Francis stood and looked over the city below them before turning to Arthur with a sigh. The alpha offered him a cigarette.

“I’m okay, thank you.”

Arthur raised an eyebrow before retracting his arm in an almost offended manner, “finally following through on last year's resolution, are we?”

Francis took a deep breath, “actually,” this was it, “I’m pregnant.”

The cigarette fell from Arthur’s mouth and onto the floor several stories below. He blinked at Francis a few times, the omega had never witnessed him so speechless. He waited patiently for the information to sink in, watching the alpha process what Francis had told him. Francis had no idea what the alpha was thinking but from the speed at which his expression kept changing, it looked as if he was going through the five stages of grief in the span of several seconds. Francis could only wait for Arthur to come to terms with things, but he knew Arthur well and, despite his otherwise prickly demeanor, he had faith that the alpha would say the right thing when he eventually found the words.

Francis's ears perked up when Arthur cleared his throat but there was something about the alpha's expression that set Francis on edge. He looked calm, his typical scowl melted away into something much more neutral to the point of disinterest. When he finally spoke, it was in the monotonous drawl of someone completely apathetic to the situation, “and you’re telling me because?”

Francis suddenly got a horrible feeling I’m the pit of his stomach. He swallowed as he looked at Arthur. It didn't make any sense. Sure the pair had been known to act a little meanspirited towards the other on occasion, but not like this. Not when one of them was clearly in pain and vulnerable and spilling their heart to the other.

Francis frowned, riled up by Arthur's seeming indifference despite the lump that had formed in hs throat, “I just thought you might want to know about your child...clearly I was wrong.”

Arthur scoffed and looked at Francis with such derision that it made the omega feel about 1inch tall and he spat his next words with such venom that Francis almost started crying on the spot, “I don’t doubt you got yourself knocked up but how can you be so sure it was by me?”

Why was he being like this? Why was he treating Francis so awfully after everything they’d been through? It seemed he had severely misjudged the alpha. Obviously he thought Francis was a much bigger slut than he actually was.

Then suddenly it clicked.

“…Just how many people do you think I’ve slept with in the past 2 months?” Francis asked indignantly.

“I’m assuming '80% of people in this office' wouldn’t be much of a bad guess,” Arthur sneered.

He felt the slap before he saw it happen. His cheek stung and he yelled bloody murder, tears pricking at his eyes. He clutched his cheek as he blinked up accusingly at Francis but when he vision finally came back into focus, he realised that the omega was already gone. When he scanned the office, he noticed Francis heading into Ludwig’s office. He suddenly felt rather nervous but pushed those feelings down by reassuring himself there was no way he could get in trouble when Francis was the one who had laid a hand on him.

Arthur made his way back to his desk with a calm scowl and sat down. A few minutes later, Francis came out of Ludwig’s office, pointedly ignoring Arthur as he switched his computer off, picked up his coat and bag and left.

Arthur had to wonder if the omega hadn't just quit his job on the spot. He wouldn't put it past the dramatic sod.

He turned to Feliciano who sat behind him and decided that even if he wasn’t the best person to gossip with, he would have to do.

“If they’re going to go at it in the supply closet, they should at least lock the door,” he tutted indignantly.

“You walked in on them too huh?” Feliciano said as he spun around to face Arthur, “I hope Francis is okay. He looked awfully upset about something.”

“What?” Was Feliciano stupid?

“I have no idea why he was crying,” the omega carried on, looking sad as he spoke, “but it’s lucky Gil was there as a shoulder to cry on I guess.”

“They…they weren’t…having…?”

“Sex? Oh no!” Feliciano laughed, “Fran and Gil? No…I think Fran was just upset about something.”

“Oh…” Arthur said flatly as he turned slowly to his computer. He blinked dumbly down at the screen before letting his head fall into his hands, “I am so stupid.”

In a flurry, he turned around to grab his phone. Personal calls weren’t usually permitted during work hours but suddenly he didn’t care about getting a bollocking from Ludwig about wasted company time, he just needed to reach Francis and apologise.

It was ringing, for an inordinate amount of time.

“Pick up, pick up,” he urged the dial tone desperately.

No answer, “damnit,” he cursed under his breath.

His head fell into his hands. What could he do? Would he just have to wait a couple of hours until the end of the day and rush over to Francis’ apartment? Would he even let him in after what he had said? He felt terrible. He felt awful. He felt like the smallest man in the world. He was the smallest man in the world.

His mind raced with a million thoughts. He had to talk to Francis, he had to apologise. But how?

Yes! Antonio and Gilbert.

Arthur got up and rushed across the floor, “Gilbert,” he started nervously. Gilbert and Antonio were a lot bigger than him and suffice it to say after how he had treated Francis he was a little terrified of them, “I need to speak to Francis but he won’t answer my calls…perhaps you two…could…”

“Get him to talk to you?” Toni supplied, “not a chance, asshole. Francis already told us what you did.”

“Look, I made a mistake, okay? I just want to apologise…”

“It’s gonna take more than an apology,” Gil told him, “what the hell’s wrong with you man?”

“I’m sorry, I just-“

“Look piss off okay,” Antonio said dismissively, “before we get the boss out on you.”

Arthur bristled, “fine but can you at least-“

“No!” Came their simultaneous reply.

Arthur swallowed before slinking back to his desk. Waiting until the end of the day to claw at Francis’ apartment door, it would have to be.

“Fran,” Arthur called desperately into his intercom, “Fran, please let me in!”

“Non,” came his soft muffled reply, “go away.”

Arthur could hear the hurt in his voice and it tore him up inside, “just let me apologise.”

“You can do that well enough from out there.”

Arthur sighed impatiently, “it would be much easier to come up and see you.”

“Not for me,” Francis’ voice was small and weak and Arthur’s chest tightened to think of how much he had been crying.

“Yeah,” another voice butted in slightly louder, “piss off, asshole, we’re taking care of him.”

“I-is someone with you?” Arthur knew he had no right to sound indignant; nonetheless he couldn’t help it.

“Gil and Toni,” Arthur could definitely hear the annoyance in Francis’ shaky voice, “contrary to what you clearly believe of me, I haven’t actually been whoring myself out to anyone who comes knocking on my door the second you turn your back.”

“That’s…” Arthur felt ashamed of himself, and worse he felt sorry for Francis, “god, Francis I’m really sorry-“

“Save it,” Francis told him shortly before cutting off the intercom.

“Do you think I should go down there and let him in,” Francis asked, biting a fingernail, “he sounded rather apologetic.”

“No,” Gil said quickly, “let him think about what he’s done. If you give into him just like that he’ll never learn his lesson.”

“That sounds a bit harsh…” Francis worried his lip between his teeth.

“What he said to you was harsh,” Toni said with a gentle touch to Francis’ shoulder.

“I suppose…” Francis sighed as he went to sit down on his sofa but before he could, a knock at his front door startled him. He looked up and frowned, “who is it?”

“It’s me,” came Arthur’s sheepish reply.

Francis stormed over to the door and scowled through the peephole, “how did you get up here?”

“Your neighbour Mr Cooke let me in. I think he recognised me.”

Francis groaned exasperatedly.

“Look you don’t have to let me in but at least hear me out.”

Arthur sounded at least somewhat apologetic. Which was uncommon for the alpha so Francis took that as a good sign and slowly opened the door a pinch just until the chain lock caught.

Arthur carried on even when no reply came, “I…I saw you in the closet with Gilbert and I…well I assumed the worst and I’m sorry. That's still no excuse for how I acted…look, Fran, I’m sorry I didn’t mean it, I was just angry and jealous and stupid. I’m an idiot.”

“You are,” Francis agreed, suddenly more angry than he was before, “you really think that of me? You really think that I would do that to you.”

“Well, I mean, it’s not like we were in a relationship. I mean, we’d never discussed any mention of exclusivity. I guess I just jumped to conclusions.”

“Yes and then called me a whore,” Francis snapped.

Arthur had no idea why he said it but his stomach clenched with regret as soon as the words left his mouth, “well…you do have a certain reputation.”

The omega gasped indignantly, “that’s it! Get out. You horrible, horrible man!”

“Fran, wait!”

And with that the door was slammed in his face.

Francis couldn’t hear any signs of struggle so assumed that the alpha had slunk off back from whence he came. Francis fell onto the sofa next to Toni, crying into his shoulder and stuffing his face with the cake he had been stress baking after leaving work early.

Arthur was no less persistent at work the next day. From the moment Francis sat down at his desk, he was at the omega’s throat apologising.

“Fran, I’m sorry. I’m really, really sorry. I mean it. Please please forgive me.”

He almost had Francis fooled for a second, he sounded sincere and the look of despair in his eyes seemed genuine. But after what he had said outside Francis’ door last night, he was either stupid or a mildly good actor.

Regardless, Francis wouldn’t give in so easily.

“Forget it,” he said.

“Come on, Fran,” Arthur reached out an arm to place his hand over Francis’ but retracted it immediately when something behind Francis’ caught his eye.

“Is this man bothering you?”

Francis turned around to see Toni and Gil stood over him and he smiled softly, “it’s fine. He just can’t seem to get the message through his thick skull that I want to be left alone.”

Arthur frowned, he looked angry and upset and like a child denied his favourite toy but when he spoke, his voice was soft and defeated, “what must I do to get you to forgive me?”

Francis looked at him and found his resolve softening. He didn’t know what to say. He wanted the alpha to show him that he was sorry, not just with empty words or promises. He wanted Arthur to show him that he would be there for him, that he was willing to do whatever it took - within reason of course.

In the end it was Gilbert who spoke for him, “get on the floor and bark like a dog.”

Arhour looked at him as if he had just suggested he jump from the top of the building. He scoffed indignantly and gawked at the man before quipping sarcastically, “alright, let me just go and fetch my collar and leash.”

Francis straightened up and put both hands on his hips, “non. He’s right. I want to hear you bark like a dog. Loud enough for the entire office to hear.”

Arthur looked mortified, his mouth agape and his eyes wide but quickly he straightened up, an air of dignity about him, “fine,” he agreed determinedly, “if that’s what it’ll take for you to forgive me.”

And then Francis watched as the alpha tucked in his chair and got down on all fours. He looked up at Francis, his bushy brows furrowed in determination, “woof, woof!”

Francis’ brows shot up in surprise, he had never expected Arthur might actually do it.

“Woof, woof!” He said again, louder this time as heads started to turn. Francis looked around, feeling slightly embarrassed on behalf of the alpha but more so a heartfelt endearment towards the man.

“Kirkland!”

“Woof?”

Arthur turned his head to the side as Ludwig stepped out of his office. Behind him, the omega heard Toni and Gil chuckling and he nudged them both in the ribs gently.

“What on earth are you doing? Get back to work.”

“Y-yes sir!” Arthur stuttered as he clambered back to his feet.

Ludwig retreated back into his office, giving Arthur a sideways glance as he did so.

“Mon dieu…Arthur…”

“Please never ask me to do that again.”

“I can’t believe you just did that for me,” Francis was almost crying.

“Yeah…well…” Arthur was blushing furiously, his brows furrowed and his mouth pulled into a frown, “I think I would do just about anything for you, Francis.”

Francis did start crying then, sniffling loud enough for people to turn their heads once more, a few giving Arthur accusing looks who blanched pathetically before stepping towards Francis awkwardly.

“I’m okay,” he sniffed in assurance to everyone, “I’m okay I just…I’m a little emotional at the moment.”

Chapter Text

“So…” Arthur sighed as they descended the stairs together. The alpha had refrained from opening his mouth all morning to talk about the elephant in the room as, from Francis’ silence on the matter, he assumed the omega didn’t want to discuss it in the office. He then assumed that since they were on their way to get lunch, now was as good a time as any to discuss things without fear of anyone eavesdropping on their business.

“So,” Francis prompted with a pursed smile.

“I assume you don’t want anyone in the office to know. At least not yet anyway.”

“Oui, I hope you do not mind.”

“Of course not,” Arthur said quickly, “of course not. Everything should be up to you.”

“Well not everything,” Francis frowned, “I would hope that you would help sometimes with big decisions.”

“Like what?” Arthur would have loved nothing more than for Francis to include him in decision making but he knew he hadn’t earned that right yet.

“Like,” Francis sighed and frowned pensively, “like…like…err…I don’t know…a name perhaps.”

Arthur felt his eyes widen and something warm heating up in his chest, “so you’re going to keep it?”

Francis stiffened and turned to look at Arthur slowly. He looked so scared and vulnerable and nothing like his usual self. It made Arthur want to wrap both arms around him and carry him back to his bed where he could tuck him in blankets and bring him tea and look after him.

But slowly he nodded at Arthur, “I think so.”

And Arthur smiled back at him.

“It’s going to be alright,” he told him as he reached a hand around his shoulders and rubbed his arm reassuringly.

Francis looked at him as though he didn’t really believe him but when Arthur smiled at him he gave a small smile back.

“If you abandon me, I’ll find you and I’ll cut off your balls.”

Arthur chuckled, “and leave you on your own to take care of a baby? The child would stand no chance.”

Arthur’s laughter died out in a pathetic gasp at the scowl on Francis’ face, “oh god, please don’t make me start barking again.”

Francis’ frown quickly turned into a lip quivering pout and Arthur would have crouched down and barked like a dog endlessly if it meant Francis never pulled that face again.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean-“

“No you’re right,” Francis sobbed, “I’d make a terrible mother.”

“No…” Arthur tried to reassure him as the omega stopped abruptly in the middle of the stairwell, “Francis? Are you sure this is the best place to-“

Francis was suddenly on the floor, sitting at the edge of the stairs, sobbing into his hands.

“Alright,” Arthur sighed as he lowered himself beside Francis, “there, there,” he said gently as he wrapped an arm around the omega and hugged him. He knew anyone else would have been doing a better job at comforting him but Arthur had never been good at showing physical affection.

His pathetic advances did virtually nothing and Francis continued to cry.

“It’ll be okay,” Arthur said again, “it’s not the end of the world, and…we’ll have people to help us. I know my mum will probably be thrilled-“

“Oh, my parents!” Francis cried out, “how am I going to tell papa? Oh, he’s going to kill me. Actually,” Francis turned to Arthur with a concerned frown, “he’s going to kill you.”

Arthur swallowed, “perhaps we don’t tell papa.”

Francis’ expression softened slightly and he released a pitiful chuckle, “this is a mess…”

“It is quite,” Arthur agreed with a weary sigh, “then again, most things in life are.”

They were quiet for a second as they looked at each other and Francis finally gave Arthur a weak smile.

“I tell you what,” Arthur continued, “why don’t I buy you lunch?”

Francis sighed, “I’m not that hungry.”

Arthur frowned, “you should eat something.”

Francis shook his head, “I feel too sick to eat anything.”

Arthur hummed in thought, “right well…let’s just get some tea or something.”

He helped the omega to his feet, frowning when Francis began looking at him with a mixture of disgust and concern as he said, “tea doesn’t sound that bad actually.”

Arthur’s expression was overly triumphant and it made Francis roll his eyes, “shut up.”

“I didn’t say anything,” Arthur said defensively, saying all that he needed with his smug grin.

--

They ended up at Arthur’s flat that evening. It was a little smaller than Francis’ but in the alpha’s opinion he had better taste in decor. Obviously Francis would beg to differ, preferring more subtle colours and decorations that kept up with current trends as opposed to Arthur’s love of more traditional things.

“I was thinking of making a casserole for dinner,” Arthur suggested as he shut his front door and removed Francis’ coat for him.

Francis turned around and gave Arthur a worried look.

“What?” Arthur frowned.

“Nothing…” Francis averted his eyes before gliding into Arthur’s living room, “but I could make dinner if you want.”

Arthur frowned, “it's my home, I'm not going to make you cook. Besides...you should probably be resting.”

Francis rolled his eyes, “alors…I will buy us takeaway.”

Arthur narrowed his eyes as he dropped himself onto his sofa and looked up at Francis, “just say you don’t want to eat my cooking.”

“Alright,” Francis declared, “I don’t want to eat your cooking.”

Arthur rolled his eyes, “typical,” he scoffed.

Francis sat down next to Arthur and smiled. The alpha found himself smiling back despite himself.

“Fine,” he sighed as he pushed himself off the sofa, “I’ll order a pizza.”

Francis’ eyes widened expectantly, “can you order it from that little Italian place?”

“The expensive Italian place?” Arthur corrected flatly.

"It's the only place that does nice pizza. And we are not getting it from that fish and chip place again. It was so disgusting and greasy, I couldn't stomach a single bite," the omega said, his big blue eyes wide and pleading. Arthur inwardly groaned as he felt his resolve melt away at the look.

“Fine,” he sighed as he picked up the phone, “what kind of pizza do you want?”

“Margarita is fine,” he smiled as he leant back on the sofa until he was practically ready for a nap.

He heard Arthur walk through to the hall as he called the restaurant, “hi, I’d like a large margarita pizza please.”

Francis grabbed a pillow from further down the sofa and stuffed it under his head as he turned to face the TV. Arthur’s remote was sitting on his coffee table just out of his reach. He strained to grab for it but quickly grew tired and relaxed back onto the sofa, closing his eyes. He wasn’t planning on actually having a nap but, with his eyes closed, he suddenly realised how tired he was.

He awoke some time later to find himself wrapped in a blanket. Looking to Arthur who was sitting at the end of the sofa with Francis’ legs draped over his lap, he smiled.

“Did you put this here?” He asked as he picked up the edge of the blanket.

Arthur looked at him briefly before turning back to the television, “no, the fairies did it.”

Francis rolled his eyes, smiling nonetheless, “thank you.”

He saw the blush that crept up Arthur’s neck and dusted his cheeks pink and it made his smile widen.

The door buzzer sounded and Arthur quickly stood up without thinking. Francis' legs fell onto the floor and the alpha looked down nervously before offering a weak, “oh, sorry.”

Lifting his legs back onto the sofa and tucking them against himself underneath the blanket, Francis smiled up at the alpha tiredly as he watched him rush out of his apartment.

A few minutes after he’d shut his front door, the alpha stepped back through it with a large pizza box hand.

The smell drifted into the living room and suddenly Francis got a terrible feeling in his stomach, one that only got worse the further Arthur stepped inside his flat.

Rushing past Arthur with a sputtered apology as he ran towards to the bathroom, the omega made it just in time to vomit into the otherwise pristine toilet bowl.

“Francis?!” He heard Arthur call frantically, however he was a bit too preoccupied to reply.

Arthur rushed after the omega quickly after discarding the pizza in the kitchen and kneeled down next to him with a sigh, “oh…Fran…” he reached for the omega's hair and pulled it back out of the way.

He rubbed Francis’ back as he looked at the omega with concern and an awakward sense that he should be doing more than he was. A feeling that never always seemed to follow him wherever he went.

Francis groaned into the toilet bowl pitifully before lifting himself up on shaking arms. The alpha gave him the least awkward smile he could manage as he offered the omega some toilet paper which he took ahold of gratefully.

“Are you alright?” Arthur asked softly, grimacing slightly when Francis looked at him tiredly.

The omega began to frown, feeling incredibly sorry for himself. He shook his head in answer to the alpha's question before adding, “I don’t think I’ll be having pizza tonight.”

Arthur furrowed his brows, “you have to eat something. You haven’t eaten all day, Francis.”

“That’s not true,” Francis assured him with a tired frown, “I had breakfast.”

The alpha huffed exasperatedly, “one meal a day isn’t enough.”

“If I eat anything, I will throw up again,” Francis said tiredly as he pushed himself up off the floor. He was a little shaky on his feet as he turned towards the sink and Arthur had to catch him.

His brows knitted together furiously as he glared at Francis, “fine,” he agreed rather reluctantly, “but you’re sitting down and I’m making you some tea.”

Francis gave him a weak smile which Arthur met with a bristling scowl as he led the omega into the living room and onto the sofa. He handed Francis the blanket and once satisfied that he was wrapped up warm enough, left him with the TV remote to go and make him some tea.

He came back with the tea and scowled when he found the omega asleep. He set the mug down on the coffee table with what he had hoped was enough force to wake him. The omega stirred, releasing a soft and tired moan but when he remained asleep, Arthur couldn't really be that angry at him.

Another reason Francis preferred his own place to Arthur’s was the fact that the alpha didn’t have a proper place to eat. Usually he ate at his desk as it was ‘as good a place as any’ and meant he could work at the same time, or if he wanted a break from work then the sofa was ‘perfectly acceptable’ as it meant he could catch up on television as he ate. Why the man constantly had to be doing 2 things at once, Francis would never understand.

But today he was just too tired and he sat down next to Arthur on the sofa with minimal complaints as they ate last night’s reheated pizza.

“You know the other day when you thought you saw me and Gil in the supply closet?” Francis asked, his tone fairly innocent.

Arthur visibly whitened at the question, obviously expecting some kind of argument, “uh…yes?”

"Did it bother you?"

That wasn't the reply he had been expecting and thus he had no idea what to say, "...what? Why? What do you mean?"

“I mean," the omega shrugged, seemingly nonchalant, "do you…care about being exclusive at all?”

Francis could see Arthur’s Adam’s apple Bob as he swallowed, “I…no…I…why would I?” He finally scoffed.

“Oh,” Francis said flatly, he couldn’t help but feel a little disheartened, “so you would not care if we dated other people?”

The alpha frowned at him, he looked almost angry but Francis couldn’t tell how he actually felt from such an expression as it was how Arthur looked 90% of the time even when he wasn’t angry, “well if I don’t care about being exclusive, I wouldn’t care about dating other people would I?”

He sounded angry. Francis suddenly felt angry, “good,” he snapped, “because Sadik from the 4th floor asked me if I wanted to go on a date with him yesterday and since you don’t care, I will tell him yes.”

“Fine,” Arthur said dismissively, as he turned to face the television.

“Fine."

-

Arthur stared down at his phone, a little confused to say the least. It was a message from Toni telling him to go to Francis’ apartment right away followed by an address and an order number. He followed the address and it took him to a bakery. When he got inside, he showed the order number to the woman at the counter and in return she gave him a large white box. Arthur opened it when he got outside and found a cake inside.

His pulse quickened suddenly as he realised he might have forgotten something. It wasn’t Francis’ birthday was it? No, that was in July, it was October. Was it his birthday? No…how could he forget his own birthday? Was it their anniversary? No, they weren’t even dating. In fact, he suddenly remembered that Francis was supposed to be on a date with ‘Sadik from accounting on the fourth floor’ so why was Arthur being asked to deliver a cake to his apartment?

Suddenly he felt very nervous and irrationally angry at the thought he might have been asked to bring this cake into the middle of their date. What if he walked in on something he couldn’t unsee?

He scowled. Arthur liked to hound Francis for being thoughtless and lazy but he could never be that thoughtless and lazy. There had to be some explanation for this.

“Hey, Francis, it’s me, I brought your…cake…let me in.”

“Arthur?” Francis sounded slightly concerned as his voice buzzed through the intercom, “I asked Toni to come.”

“He was busy,” Arthur explained, “he texted me to come instead.”

Francis was quiet for a second and Arthur couldn’t help but assume the worst, that Francis was upstairs right in the middle of guzzling Sadik from accounting’s cum and that the cake he was sent to deliver was to be used in some foul way for their deranged sex play.

“I can leave it on the doorstep,” Arthur offered when no reply came.

He leaned down to leave it there but stopped abruptly when he heard Francis say, “it’s okay, you can bring it up.”

Arthur really didn’t want to, “are you sure?”

“Oui,” Francis said softly as he buzzed the alpha in.

Arthur stood on the doorstep for a few seconds, reluctant to step over the threshold. After a few more seconds of hesitation, he stepped inside and made his way upstairs. When he finally made it to the omega’s apartment, expecting Francis to open the door underdressed and covered in hickies as Brian waited for him in his bedroom, he was greeted by the exact opposite.

Francis was standing at the door wrapped in a duvet, his eyes puffy and red as if he had been crying - which the used tissues scattered around suggested he had been. Sadik was nowhere to be seen but covering Francis’ floor were dozens of chocolate bar wrappers mixed in with the occasional empty tub of ice cream and on his shoulder sat Pierre as he pecked fondly at the omega's hair.

Arthur looked at Francis and suddenly felt a horrible tightness in his chest, “god, Francis. Are you okay?”

“Sadik,” Francis explained as he took the cake box from Arthur, “is a pig.”

He walked through to his living room and flopped down on his sofa. Pierre flew off and landed on the coffee table. He chirped at Francis and the omega smiled at him. Arthur closed the door behind himself and followed the omega into the living room where he kneeled down in front of him.

“What happened?”

Francis sniffed and looked at Arthur sadly before sitting up and allowing room for Arthur to sit beside him.

“He left halfway through the date,” Francis explained with a sniff.

Arthur frowned, “did he have to be somewhere? What did he say?”

Francis shook his head as he stared at the unopened cake box in his lap, “I told him…I told him I was pregnant and he bolted out of there.”

“Oh, god, Fran…”

“I knew it wouldn’t be the same but I thought my life could still be normal. But I was quickly disabused of that fanciful notion," the omega sniffed, his shoulders slumping in defeat, "you should have seen his face when I told him. He looked like I told him I was going to murder him," Francis shook his head sadly as Pierre flew over to perch on his shoulder again and he looked at Arthur as he carried on with his explanantion, "we had just ordered the main course and he asked me why I wasn’t drinking so I thought I should just tell him early before anything happened. I thought I might have just startled him but he excused himself to the bathroom and never came back.”

Francis burst into tears and Arthur pulled him into a protective hug, “fucking bastard,” he spat, “what happened? Did he just leave you with the bill.”

Whether he realised it or not, Arthur’s scent was very calming to Francis and the omega nuzzled against his chest to soak himself in it. He took a shallow breath before explaining, “I realised he wasn’t coming back when the food arrived about 20 minutes later. So after I finished both of them I paid and left to buy £30 worth of chocolate and ice cream and I can never show my face at that restaurant ever again.”

Arthur didn’t know what to say so he just stroked Francis’ hair as the omega cried into his shoulder.

“I’m pathetic. Arthur what am I doing?"

"You're not pathetic," Arthur was quick to assure him, "trust me. This says more about him than it does about you. You...you dodged a bullet. He sounds like a spineless cunt. And you can do so much better."

Francis sniffed as he gave the alpha a weak smile. He looked down at his lap before turning to Arthur again, "thank you...for bringing me cake. And thank you for staying."

"Of course," The alpha spoke through a pursed smile.

"Is it okay if you stay a little longer?"

"Of course."

Chapter Text

“The gel is a little cold,” the doctor warned Francis before he spread it over his bare abdomen.

The omega held his breath as he looked down and watched the wand glide back and forth. He winced, the doctor was right, it was cold.

He grabbed Arthur’s hand and squeezed tight. He was so glad he had offered to come. He didn’t know how much more nerve racking it would have been without him here. Or if he would have even come at all by himself.

Francis bit his lip and looked to Arthur nervously. The apha squeezed his hand in reassurance and gave him a smile that the omega returned weakly.

Both of their faces dropped dramatically at the sound of the doctor’s, “oh.”

“Oh?” Arthur prompted, his brows knitting with concern.

Francis tried to look at the monitor but when he did, he could make nothing out. It was just a mess of squiggly lines to him.

The doctor looked at them and gave a reassuring smile that faded quickly as he asked, “did you say this was your first pregnancy?”

Francis looked nervously to Arthur before answering with a worried, “yes.”

The doctor nodded thoughtfully, “by any chance, do twins run in either of your families?”

Francis suddenly felt his heart drop into his stomach as Arthur replied, “my brother and I are twins,” he looked at Francis almost apologetically, "and my mother and aunt are twins."

Francis could have fainted if he weren’t lying down.

The doctor chuckled, “well,” he said as he pointed to two little dots on the monitor, “these little smudges are your babies.”

Babies. The word swam around Francis’ head like a rock hitting the waves. He was speechless.

“We’re…we’re having twins?” He heard Arthur ask breathlessly. He turned to look at him and found himself quite astounded by the look of wonder in Arthur’s eyes. He was actually smiling too.

Francis looked to the doctor, a part of him begging the man to say no.

“Yes,” he nodded.

“Francis, can you-“ Arthur’s smile dropped suddenly when he looked at Francis. The omega hadn’t realised how quickly or how loudly he had been breathing. He felt Arthur’s hand on his shoulder, “Francis, are you alright?”

The omega didn’t reply. He couldn’t. His voice was stuck in his throat and no matter how hard he tried to push it out, it’s claws dug in and lodged itself there.

“Here.”

He looked down as the doctor thrust a small prescription bag under his chin and told him to, “breathe into this. Take deep breaths.”

He did as he was told and slowly his breathing died down and the cloud of mist that had fogged over his mind began to clear.

“Do you need us to leave?” The doctor asked calmly.

Francis shook his head slowly and looked to Arthur who had a hand on his arm. The alpha looked absolutely distraught.

“Francis?” He had never seen Arthur’s brows so furrowed with concern, “is he alright?”

“He’s in shock,” the doctor explained in a soft voice, “you should give him some space.”

Arthur pursed his lips nervously as he took a step back and looked at Francis. Francis brought the bag away from his face, “I’m sorry,” he gasped.

“There’s no need to apologise, Mr Bonnefoy. A lot of omegas get nervous like this, especially first time mothers.”

Francis took a shaky inhale and nodded in understanding.

“I’d be surprised if you weren’t nervous,” his smile was warm and friendly and his presence was comforting.

Francis blushed as he looked between them. Despite the doctor’s kind words, he felt stupidly embarrassed, “I don't know what came over me. My emotions have just been so temperamental ever since…” he trailed off, unable to finish.

“That’s completely normal,” he assured Francis with a gentle smile that helped to put him at ease.

“Will it ever stop?” Francis pleaded.

The doctor looked apologetic, “I’m afraid not. Your hormones are all changing at the minute and since hormones usually affect your mood, you’ll be having a lot of mood swings. But, getting a lot of rest and avoiding stress can help. So,” he looked at Arthur with a smile then back to Francis, “tell your boyfriend to go easy on you for the time being.”

Francis chuckled lightly, “he isn’t my boyfriend.”

“Oh,” the doctor seemed taken aback, “so, you two aren’t…?”

“He’s the father but we’re not together,” Francis explained quickly.

“Oh,” the doctor smiled. He seemed almost relieved, “in that case,” he reached into his coat pocket, “here’s my card, it has my number on the front but here,” he paused to scribble something on the back of it, “I’ve written my mobile on the back so you can reach me anytime you need to.”

“Oh,” Francis gasped in surprise as he took the card off the doctor, “thank you.”

The doctor smiled as he tore off a paper towel and began to wipe the gel from Francis’ stomach, “Well, you’re all finished and free to go. Don’t hesitate to call if you need anything. Big or small. Or, you know, even if you just need someone to talk to.”

Francis smiled in surprise, “you are too kind, Doctor.”

“Just doing my job,” he smiled as he held out a hand and helped Francis off the table and walked him to the door, “hopefully I’ll see you at your next appointment.”

Arthur watched the pair leave together, his hand still outstretched and waiting for Francis to take a hold so that he could help him off the table. He looked down and suddenly retracted his hand before rushing off to follow them with a scowl.

“He was absolutely flirting with you,” Arthur contended as they made their way to the bus stop.

“He was just being nice,” Francis looked at Arthur in that condescending way that never failed to make his blood boil.

“No, he wanted to sleep with you,” he said, trying not to sound as bothered as he was.

Francis raised his eyebrows and smiled as if he had just caught Arthur out somehow, “even if that were true, why do you care?”

“I don’t!” Arthur yelled, feeling his cheeks heat up at the realisation of how loud he was being, “I just think it’s inappropriate. You’re his patient. He shouldn’t be flirting with you.”

“He wasn’t flirting,” Francis insisted. Arthur tried to ignore the way he smiled, teasingly but with an edge of infatuation before adding, “it’s cute that you’re jealous, though.”

Arthur’s brows furrowed furiously, “I am not-“ he cut himself off before he could even say the words and swallowed before repeating in a calm and quiet manner that he assumed would be more convincing, “I am not jealous. I just don’t think you should call him.”

“Then I won’t,” Francis said simply with a smile as he ripped up the card he’d been given.

Arthur looked at him in surprise, unsure of what to say. Regardless, he didn’t get a chance to say anything as the bus pulled up in front of them and they got on without a word to each other.

Arthur followed Francis to a seat and sat down beside him. Francis turned his head to look out of the window as the bus took off.

Finally Arthur spoke after what felt to him like an eternity in silence, “how are you feeling?”

Francis turned to him with a blank expression that slowly unfolded into a smile, “I’m alright.”

“Good,” Arthur sighed, offering Francis a warm smile. He pursed his lips and hesitated briefly before saying, “so…that was quite a surprise.”

Francis’ smile dropped and he looked away from Arthur as he hummed thoughtfully.

“So…2…2…”

“You can say the words twins,” Francis’ smile looked weary, “I won’t start hyperventilating.”

Arthur sighed and gave a weary smile in return, “right, twins.”

Arthur had always been one to plan things down to a T and when things went a awry, he was overcome with anxiety. Strangely, this experience wasn’t having the same effect. He knew he should, by his own account, be terrified, but he was already unbelievably ecstatic at the prospect. He had always wanted children and now he was getting 2 at once. It would be difficult of course but he would do anything for his children. And for Francis.

Arthur turned to tell Francis as such but as soon as he got the first word out, he stopped as Francis started speaking as well. They both cut themselves off abruptly and smiled.

“You go first,” Arthur nodded.

Francis pursed his lips, “I was just going to say, I know that I freaked out earlier but before that…I was coming round to the idea of…of a little baby,” he looked to Arthur and offered him a weak smile that Arthur returned encouragingly, “that is to say, I came round to the idea of one little baby and the thought of 2…at once…inside me.”

Francis’ face fell into his hands. Arthur placed a hand on his shoulder, “it’s okay, I understand.”

Francis was on him in a second scowling, “How could you possibly understand? You’re not the one who has to push them out of you!”

Arthur blinked and swallowed nervously, “I…that’s…that’s true…” Arthur never knew what to say when Francis was angry at him recently. Usually he would shout back until one of them got tired or too hoarse to argue but now he couldn’t bring himself to. So he just decided to agree with him.

A decision he immediately came to regret as it appeared to result in tears and high pitched whining that, as Arthur looked around, he realised could potentially set any nearby alpha off.

“Oh good heavens,” Arthur muttered before quickly pulling Francis against his chest, sparing a wary glance over his shoulder to check that no other alphas were being affected.

Arthur sighed as he looked back down at the omega sobbing into his chest. The doctor was definitely right about those mood swings.

Chapter Text

Francis loved Halloween. The decorations, the costumes, the parties, the alcohol…and the subsequent drunken one night stands. Suffice it to say this year would be a little different.

“I am going to loathe watching everyone get drunk at the Halloween party without me,” Francis lamented dramatically as he watched Arthur pour a couple shots of Bailey’s into his mug of tea and stared sadly into his own sad little mug of decaf coffee. Arthur had bought an entire jar of it for him and he felt bad not drinking it, but it tasted awful.

Francis was going to loathe watching people enjoy a lot of things. Things he wasn’t allowed anymore, which, as if the punchline of some cruel cosmic joke, seemed to comprise entirely of his favourite things: namely coffee and alcohol.

He sighed forlornly as he pushed his mug to the side and leaned over the counter.

Arthur scoffed as he stirred his tea, “it won’t be that bad.”

“It will be torture,” Francis frowned.

Arthur sighed and looked at him with an exasperated smile.

Then Francis stood up and gave Arthur a worrying look, worrying because whenever he looked at Arthur like that, the alpha could never refuse him.

“Why don’t we go sober together?”

Arthur’s eyebrows shot up and he was sure he looked completely baffled if not a little disgusted by the idea. He wanted to say no. He wanted to put his foot down and tell the omega that he wasn't going to take away the only good thing in his life. He wasn't going to give up alcohol, even for the omega that was carrying his children.

But then Francis gave him thay look. His bottom lip jutting out, quivering ever so slightly as he blinked his big blue eyes and Arthur felt his resolve quickly crumple away.

“Sure,” he found himself agreeing weakly with a tired sigh.

“What do you think?”

What did he think?

Arthur looked up from his desk to where Francis stood in the doorway to his bedroom. The omega was covered in green from head to toe apart from the bright red feather that stuck out of his little alpine hat. Arthur let his eyes wander down past the feathery green tunic that sat nicely above Francis’ thighs. As he spun around playfully, Arthur’s eyes widened to see just how tight his tights were, especially around his thighs and that tunic was high enough at the back that Arthur could see his entire ass. He swallowed.

“You’re….you’ll get cold,” he said as he tore his attention away from Francis and back to his desk.

“I’m going to bring a coat,” Francis said exasperatedly as he placed both hands on his hips and leant against the doorframe.

Arthur hummed without looking up.

“Why aren’t you dressed? We have to leave in 10 minutes.”

“Because it takes me 5 minutes.”

“Get dressed,” Francis said sternly from behind before there was a soft thud against his bed.

He turned and raised his eyebrows as he glanced over the costume that Francis had just tossed his way, “a pirate?”

“Not just any pirate,” he corrected, “Capitaine Crochet.”

Arthur got up and walked to the bed to inspect the costume. He picked up the fake hook hand and spun it between his fingers, “captain hook.”

Francis smiled expectantly and Arthur released a brief exhale, “I’m surprised you didn’t want to go as Tinkerbell.”

“That costume would have taken too long to arrive,” Francis told him with a flick of his wrist as he turned around to walk out the door, before calling back, “you have five minutes~!”

The party was home to an abundance of all things Arthur hated, lousy music, most of his coworkers, and the inevitable small talk that came with them. 

Thank god he had alcohol. He picked up a bottle of beer from the drinks table and twisted the cap off. Francis’ indignant cough stopped the bottle on the way to his lips. 

“You said you were going to stop drinking with me.”

“Oh right,” he did say that…

He frowned at the bottle of beer before looking  at Francis and swallowing, “I’ve already opened it. Should I just pour it away?”

Francis was quiet for a moment before he rolled his eyes, “I suppose not, but make that your only one. You promised.”

Francis looked at him with his big blue doe eyes and suddenly Arthur felt insurmountably guilty. He would have to make this bottle last. 

The party raged on, Arthur and Francis both got compliments on their costumes. A few times, the alpha had to hold back a rather possessive growl when one or more of his co-worker's compliments alluded a little too explicitly towards the omega's ass. He refrained as, for one thing, he wasn’t half drunk enough to follow through with any threat and for another he wasn’t sure if he actually could. 

Things were going fine and while Arthur wasn't nearly drunk enough to be having fun, Francis seemed to be enjoying himself and that was enough to keep Arthur from writing the entire evening off. That was until Feliciano and Kiku came around with a tray of shots and offered them to the pair. 

“I’m okay, thank you,” Francis said as he sipped at the glass of water in his hand. 

When they asked Arthur he simply pointed to his beer, as if in normal circumstances he wouldn’t have taken this opportunity to down at least two of them. 

Kiku regarded Francis carefully, “not drinking, Francis?”

“Ah…” Francis trailed off without really answering. 

“Oh, are you pregnant?” Feliciano asked excitedly. 

Francis blanched and looked at Feliciano with wide eyes. 

“You can’t ask things like that,” Kiku chided quietly, a look of horror on his face. 

“It’s okay!” Francis smiled as he reached forward to pick up two shot glasses, “I’m not…" he laughed nervously, "I’m not pregnant.” 

He watched Kiku and Feliciano move on with their tray before turning to Arthur who was looking at him with concern and ordered the alpha to, “drink these.”

“W…what?”

“I have to go over there with two empty shot glasses so drink them!”

“But you told me not to.”

Francis scowled, “really? You're choosing now of all times to start refusing alcohol."

“Fine,” Arthur scowled as he reached for the glasses and threw them back in quick succession. He shivered and opened his eyes and Francis was gone, shortly returning with 2 more. 

“They offered me more, I couldn’t refuse,” at least he had the decency to look apologetic. 

“You could have easily refused,” Arthur scowled. 

“Oh don’t pretend like you aren’t thanking god, as we speak, that you have more now.”

Arthur grumbled to himself but took the glasses with little resistance. He was starting to feel a little buzzed at that point but it wasn’t until 8 shots down that he started to really feel it. 

“Francis, have you been drinking?” Gil came over to the couple to whisper with concern

Francis looked at him rather indignantly at first before softening up, “non,” he said with a mischievous grin, “but I’m glad I had you fooled. Arthur’s been drinking them for me.”

Gil turned to Arthur who was swaying on his feet, 1 shot away from actually leaning on Francis. 

Gil laughed, “what’s an alpha for?” 

Arthur smiled and said something unintelligible to which Gil laughed harder before he turned to Francis, “your ass looks great in those by the way.” 

Francis smiled and pushed Gil’s arm playfully. The pair laughed until from their side they heard a low growl. They turned simultaneously to see Arthur at Francis’ side, fangs bared. 

“Arthur,” Francis’ voice was gentle and pleading and it was only until he placed a hand on Arthur’s arm that he seemed to snap back to reality. 

He blinked at Francis groggily. 

Francis’ touch was gentle on his arm, “perhaps we should get you home,” he smiled warily. 

Arthur nodded after him. 

“Don’t go attacking any stray dogs on your way home now.” Gil warned him with a chuckle. 

Arthur turned around to growl quietly again and Gil chuckled. 

Upon their arrival back at Arthur’s, Francis assumed that the alpha would pass out almost immediately. Instead, he started kissing francis’ neck. 

“Arthur?”

“Francis…” he hummed against his skin, “Francis…” he pushed Francis against the wall and couldn’t stop himself from running a hand under his tunic and over his chest. 

“A…Arthur,” Francis gasped when the alpha's hand spread over his chest and grabbed hungrily at his small omegan breast. 

“You’re bull…blue…blueful…bluetiful,” Arthur said against Francis’ neck

Francis would have laughed if he wasn’t so busy gasping. 

“Knot you…” Arthur groaned as he slid a hand underneath Francis’ leggings and dipped his fingers into the pool of slick, “let me…knot you.” 

“Knot me,” Francis cried as Arthur slung his arms under his legs and around his back and carried him bridal style to the bedroom where he threw Francis on his bed. Quickly he began to pull his jacket off but stopped when Francis told him to, “leave it on.” 

Arthur tried as best he could in his drunk state to raise an eyebrow but he just looked like he was staring into a bright light. Francis giggled. 

Arthur kicked his boots and trousers off before pouncing onto the omega and ripping his costume off. He let his hands roam across his body, up his thighs, across his flat stomach, to his chest where he cupped Francis’ small breasts and fondled his nipples. Francis moaned loud and shamelessly, his chest and especially his nipples had become so sensitive recently and when Arthur touched them he came undone. 

“A…AHH…Arthur,” he gasped as the alpha slowly migrated down his body, leaving sloppy hungry kisses along the way until he reached Francis’ hips where he grabbed the omega by the thighs and hoisted his legs over his shoulders. Without wasting a second, he dived for Francis’ slicked asshole and pressed his tongue inside, kicking and sucking until Francis was crying out.  

“Arthur! Ah! AH!”

Arthur squeezed his fingers around Francis’ thighs, digging into the supple flesh possessively. Francis moaned.

Completely losing himself in Arthur’s kisses, Francis melted into the mattress below him. He was so wild and hungry and so alpha, it made Francis feel so small and so vulnerable and so excited. It was almost as if Arthur was in rut. 

As if on cue, the alpha looked up as he pulled himself away from Francis’ ass. 

“Mine,” he said in a low growl that sent a shiver up Francis' spine. He reached a hand to grasp at Francis’ soft hip, “mine…”

Francis' chest fluttered and he released a bubble of nervous laughter before assuring the alpha that he was, “yours.”

It was then that Arthur climbed over Francis to kiss him, caging the omega underneath him with his arms as he leaned over him. Francis moaned against his mouth as he pulled away and moaned even louder when Arthur nipped at the sensitive skin at the crook of his neck. His teeth raked over Francis’ flesh and the omega quivered. Arthur had never come so close to marking him before, Francis was tempted to let him but the sober part of his brain worried how Arthur might react in the morning. 

Francis cupped Arthur’s cheeks and pulled his face away and although the alpha growled slightly in irritation as he was torn away from such an inviting spot, his face smoothed out into a smile when Francis pulled him in for a kiss. 

Francis tensed as Arthur slipped inside him before melting into a loud moan that reverberated against Arthur’s jaw. The alpha started to thrust his hips quickly and recklessly and Francis could only scream. It seemed like the only thing on Arthur’s mind was knotting inside the omega. He was definitely in rut. 

Francis writhed with pleasure beneath him, screaming and moaning as Arthur leaned down to suck and squeeze at his sensitive nipples. Arthur was rough and didn’t hold back and while it ignited a fire In his belly, he found himself yearning after the gentle alpha that Arthur usually was. 

Francis came when Arthur bit down gently on his nipple and he screamed Arthur's name. He tipped his head back breathlessly onto the pillow, yelling as Arthur continued to fuck him recklessly into the mattress. When he knotted, he stopped abruptly and looked down at Francis who could feel his knot expanding inside him and moaned softly with satisfaction. 

Arthur then fell down beside Francis face first into his pillow. He looked at Francis briefly with a tired smile before his eyes closed and he fell asleep with his head on Francis’ chest.

Arthur woke up with a killer headache and an extremely hazy recollection of the night before. He looked around and recognised his bedroom. That was a start. 

He threw the blankets off and sat at the side of his bed as he let his face fall into his hands. He frowned as he realised he was hearing a lot more jingling than usual. He looked at his arms, they weren’t covered in their usual checkered pyjama shirt and instead, he was wearing some oversized red jacket with enormous cuffs. 

The realisation that he was still wearing his Halloween costume came to him slowly but that still didn’t answer the question of why he was still wearing it. 

He got up and decided to search his house for clues. He found a rather large one in the kitchen in the shape of Francis who was standing over the counter. 

“Why am I still wearing the pirate jacket?”

Francis looked up at him and smiled, “I asked you to keep it on.” 

Arthur frowned, “so last night…did we?”

“Have sex?” Francis smiled nonchalantly as he nodded. 

“Fuck,” Arthur sighed as he wiped a hand up and down his face and fell into the chair at the tiny breakfast table covered in papers, “I can’t remember a bloody thing.” 

“Unsurprising,” Francis chuckled, “considering you went into rut last night.” 

Arthur’s eyes went wide, “I did?”

“I think it must ‘have been because of the alcohol. You drank a lot.”

“Yes because you made me,” Arthur scowled.

“Yes…Thank you, for that.”

Francis smiled slightly as he stepped over to place Arthur’s tea in front of him. 

“Cheers,” Arthur sighed as he picked up the mug to blow on it before taking a sip. Francis had made it with what he thought was the right amount of milk and sugar but the colour still looked a lot different to how Arthur usually drank it. Perhaps he hadn’t left the teabag in for the right amount of time. Regardless Arthur seemed to deem it palatable as he smiled at Francis in thanks, “that’s lovely,” he sighed. 

Francis sat down opposite Arthur with a glass of orange juice and smiled. 

“Actually I wanted to talk to you about Christmas,” Arthur said. 

“Christmas?” Francis questioned, slight worry on his brow. Had the time finally come for Arthur to confront Francis about the fact he had never worn the hideous Christmas jumper he had knitted him for secret Santa last year? 

“It doesn’t go with anything I own!” He blurted out. 

Arthur frowned, “what?”

“What?”

Arthur’s frown deepened in utter bafflement, “I was going to say that my mother has invited us to spend Christmas with her along with my brothers. I told her about…well I told her about our…babies.”

“You did?” Francis suddenly felt worried and started biting on his lip, “what did she say?”

“Well she didn’t say anything at first, just started crying and then she insisted on meeting you as soon as possible to which I suggested we visit and she said she would love to have you over during the holidays, if you’d like that is.”

“Oh,” Francis let the initial dread wash over him and fade before he smiled and relaxed, “that sounds…nice.” 

“So you’ll come?” Arthur asked awfully hopefully for someone who was trying to feign nonchalance. 

“Yes…I…,” Francis sighed before looking at Arthur with some desperation, “as long as you come with me to see my parents over new year so that we can tell my father together.”

Arthur swallowed, “your father…”

Francis looked at Arthur with irresponsibly wide and expectant doe eyes. 

“Of course,” he found himself saying, his voice choking nervously, “of course I’ll come with you.”

Chapter Text

Francis looked at himself in the floor length mirror. He ran a hand over his hips and down his thighs. He frowned as he pinched the flesh and tried to remember if he had always been this supple.

Turning to the side, his frown deepened as he ran a hand over the curve of his stomach. It was only a slight curved but it was substantial enough for people to notice when he wasn’t wearing baggy clothes. So far a lot of peopleat work had started to notice and there was no doubt that everyone would know by the time he returned from the Christmas holidays.

The Christmas holidays. A new challenge to tackle. Visiting Arthur’s family. Meeting his mother and his many, many siblings. Well there were only 3 but as an only child, any more than 1 was a lot to Francis.

He wondered what Arthur’s mother would think of him. His stomach knotted itself as he couldn’t help but imagine the worst. That she thought he was some reckless slut that had ruined her perfect son by straddling him with the illegitimate offspring of an unmated omega.

Arthur had assured him that his mother was nothing like that (and therefore nothing like Francis’ own parents) but he still couldn’t help but worry.

He was in the middle of packing, or more accurately: trying on all of his clothes and deciding that none of them fit right anymore. At this rate, he was never going to be ready in time for tomorrow morning.

It would have been fine if all Francis owned were stretchy baggy clothes but all of his clothes were tight fitted and clung to him in all the most unflattering ways.

He picked up another pair of jeans and stepped into them. He found himself pouting like a toddler when they wouldn’t button up and in a fit of rage he tore them off and threw them across the room. He looked at himself in the mirror again. It wasn’t just his stomach that had gotten bigger, his hips were definitely wider; it was getting harder to lift his pants over his ass most of the time.

He should have expected this really, he knew that male omega’s bodies changed a lot more than women’s during pregnancy as they often didn’t have enough body fat in the right places to support a child. Or 2 in Francis’ case.

Francis couldn’t take it anymore and so instead of pouring over himself miserably in front of the mirror he decided to dive under his duvet covers and stew miserably in the comfort of his bed.

He woke up without realising he had fallen asleep. The sound of banging stirred him from his sleepy haze and he eventually gave in and slowly crawled out of bed. He threw on his fluffy winter dressing gown and reluctantly shuffled to the door.

The banging came to an abrupt stop when Francis tugged the door open to find Arthur, fist raised mid knock, eyebrows furrowed in worry, mouth drawn tight in a perturbed looking line.

“Francis!”

“How did you get in?”

“Yoour neighbour let me in again on his way out,” He explained curtly, “Jesus Christ I thought you’d died.”

“Sorry to disappoint,” he said, surprising himself with a feeling of irritation that he didn't know he had.

Arthur frowned, “what’s wrong with you? Why aren’t you ready? We have to leave soon!”

“I’m not going,” Francis said as he turned away to shuffle back into his apartment.

Arthur followed him, dragging his suitcase behind, “why not? And if the next words out of your mouth are ‘I have nothing to wear’, so help me god…”

“But I don’t have anything to wear,” Francis told him forlornly.

Francis looked at the scowl on Arthur’s face and was half convinced the alpha was actually turning red.

“You own more clothes than any other person I know,” Arthur groaned, “how could you possibly not have anything to wear?”

Francis frowned sadly as he quietly admitted, “nothing fits…”

“What?” Arthur snapped irritably.

“Nothing fits,” Francis said a little louder as he folded his arms protectively against his chest and turned away slightly, his cheeks burning red.

“Oh…” Arthur said dumbly.

“Yes,” Francis said with a scowl, “so I can’t go because I don’t have any clothes to wear. Unless you want me to go in this dressing gown.”

Arthur gave Francis an apologetic look that came across as more of a grimace, “you must have something.”

“Non!” Francis cried dramatically, “I tried everything on last night, nothing fits. I look ridiculous in everything.”

Arthur looked at Francis with a frown that was both skeptical and pitying.

“I’m sure that’s not true,” he said gently as he approached Francis.

“It doesn’t matter,” the omega said as he stared at the ground defeatedly and sank in on himself.

Arthur rolled his eyes and gave the omega an exasperated half smile, “you’re bloody hopeless, you know that?”

Francis chuckled humourlessly.

“Come on,” he ushered Francis gently towards his bedroom, “let’s get you dressed. You’ll feel better when you get some food in you.”

Francis sighed as they entered his room and by his side, Arthur gasped as his eyes landed on the piles of clothes strewn about haphazardly and the empty suitcase sitting in the middle, “you haven’t even packed?”

“I told you I didn’t have any clothes.”

“God. So you did. Fine,” Arthur sighed, “I’ll help you pack. Come on.”

Between them, they managed to fill Francis’ suitcase with jumpers that Francis deemed good enough and pants that had an elastic waistband that weren’t yoga pants because, “I am not wearing yoga pants as trousers to meet your family, Arthur.”

“Why not?”

“They’re not pants—”

“But they’re called yoga pants.”

“It doesn’t matter what they’re called, what matters is the fact they’re tight and show off everything.”

“Fine,” Arthur sighed before placing them back in Francis’ wardrobe.

After much deliberation between the pair, Francis finally settled on wearing a black turtleneck sweater that reached his mid thigh which he wore over a pair of grey tights and some knee high winter boots.

He looked at himself in the mirror and ran his hands over his stomach. When he pulled the fabric tight, his bump was glaringly obvious but when he let the fabric hang, you couldn’t truly tell he was pregnant, or atleast thats' what he tried to tell himself.

“Ready?” Arthur’s voice pulled Francis from his musings and he smiled at the alpha.

“As I’ll ever be,” he replied.

Arthur smiled and put his hand against Francis’ lower back as he led them out of the apartment, “it’ll be fine.”

Francis hoped he’d be right.

They were standing outside Arthur’s mum’s house. It was a little cottage with crumbling bricks and ivy crawling up the side.

It was a cold winter day and Francis’ obnoxiously loud shivering and teeth chattering was starting to grate on Arthur’s nerves.

“Why didn’t you wear a hat or scarf?”

“They don’t go with this outfit.”

Arthur scowled at Francis in utter bewilderment, “then why don’t you get some that match your outfits?”

“What? And buy 40 pairs of gloves?”

Arthur sighed, ignoring the urge to roll his eyes, “for you, that seems like underkill.”

Francis scowled but before he could dispute Arthur, the door opened and the pair were greeted by a tall, tall alpha with green eyes that matched Arthur’s and hair that was wild and dark and shaggy.

“You finally made it,” he grinned as he opened the door to let them in. He had the type of infectious smile that made you want to smile too. At least, that’s what Francis thought, when the omega looked at Arthur, he saw he was scowling up a storm.

“Good evening, Allistor,” he said dryly.

Allistor only grunted, sparing Arthur hardly any attention, instead choosing to focus on Francis, “you must be Francis,” he smiled, “lovely to meet ye.”

“And you, Allistor.”

The pair smiled at each other while Arthur’s scowl only deepened.

Allistor looked down at the suitcase in Francis’ hand and suddenly he was scowling twice as hard as Arthur was, “what ye doin’ making him carry his own bag?” He said as he reached down to take Francis’ suitcase from him.

“Oh,” Francis said in surprise as he let go of his bag, “thank you.”

“He said it was fine,” Arthur sputtered indignantly.

Allistor snorted derisively, “I thought ma raised ye to be a gentleman,” Allistor said as he lifted Francis’ heavy suitcase effortlessly.

“Oh like you’re one to talk,” Arthur grumbled quietly.

Either Allistor ignored the jibe or he didn’t hear him because he was only paying attention to Francis, “how was the train ride? I hope Arthur wasn’t too much of a bother.”

Francis chuckled and Arthur couldn’t help prickling irritably at the sound, “non, I was asleep for most of it.”

Yes, and I was the gentleman whose shoulder he drooled on for the entire journey, Arthur thought but didn’t dare say aloud.

Allistor set Francis’ suitcase down in the living room, the soft thud announcing their presence. The two men who were sitting in the living room on separate sofas turned to look at the doorway. One was very short with light blonde hair and the same green eyes as Arthur, the other was tall - but not as tall as Allistor, although their hair was similar shades of red - and thin as a rake, as if he were still growing into his height. Francis’ guess was that he was the youngest.

The short blonde omega jumped up and was immediately by Francis’ side, “Francis!” He beamed as he pulled the omega into a hug, “I’m Dylan! Arthur’s twin brother. It’s so nice to meet you.”

He was an omega like Francis and it made him feel at ease, “it’s nice to meet you too,” Francis smiled as he looked at Dylan, he looked like a smaller, softer version of Arthur and as Francis thought, he realised this is what Arthur would look like if he were an omega. Interesting.

“This is Michael,” Dylan smiled as he tugged the lanky lad into view.

“S’nice to meet you,” he mumbled.

Francis smiled and replied in kind.

“Where’s mum?” Arthur interjected.

“I think she’s in the kitchen making mince pies,” Dylan told him.

Arthur’s eyes lit up, “yes!” He turned to Francis, “mum’s mince pies are the best.”

Francis smiled at him.

Arthur then dashed into the kitchen, leaving his suitcase in the living room. Francis considered following him before he glanced at the suitcases left behind in the doorway, he couldn’t help feeling that by leaving them there he was in peoples way. He bent down to lift his own up and immediately felt someone else’s hand wrap around his and take the case from him.

Francis looked up to find himself face to face with Allistor.

“Don’t worry about these,” he grinned as he picked the pair of them up with ease.

“Are you sure you don’t need a hand?” Francis asked as he started to follow Allistor upstairs.

“Nah, yet alright, pet.”

Pet. Something about the nickname gave Francis a not entirely unpleasant feeling.

Francis followed him nonetheless to get a look at the room he’d be staying in. He poked his head around the corner before stepping inside. It was small but cosy, light blue walls covered in framed needlework. There was a small dresser and tall wardrobe against the wall on one side and on the other a large double bed with a thick woven quilt on the other.

“Only one bed?” Francis noted as he went to sit down on it.

“Is that a problem?” Allistor asked, concerned.

“I suppose not,” Francis said as he ran his hand over the quilt, “if Arthur doesn’t mind,” he looked at Allistor as he placed a hand over his stomach, “he and I are not actually…err…a couple.”

“You’re no’?” Allistor brows shot up minutely.

Francis shook his head as he tried to push himself off the bed. Allistor held a hand out for him and helped him up.

“So you’re single?” Allistor asked.

Francis smiled at Allistor coyly, “oui.”

Arthur frowned as he watched Francis and Allistor enter the kitchen looking cosy as can be. He walked over to them, “where have you two been?”

“Arthur,” Francis looked a little startled to see him but his expression soon melted into a smile as he looked towards Arthur’s brother, “Allistor was just showing me around the house.”

Arthur frowned. He couldn’t help but loathe the look they gave each other, as if they were already good friends well acquainted with one another.

“I could have done that,” Arthur said in the hopes of bringing Francis’ attention back to him.

“Oh,” Francis smiled sweetly at him, “I didn’t want to bother you with your mince pies.”

“Which, by the way,” Allistor interjected with a smile, “you have to try, Fran.”

‘Fran’!?

Francis turned back to Allistor, his smile growing brighter. Arthur watched with growing irritation as Allistor led Francis to the dining room table, a hand on his lower back. Arthur would have growled. If he didn’t know he could never win against his older brother.

Instead, he angrily tore into the mince pie he had brought over to give to Francis and stewed in the corner as he watched the pair giggle when Francis took a bite out of the mince pie that Allistor held out for him.

Just as Arthur was about to leave as he could no longer stomach the sight of them, his mother walked in.

Her eyes lit up when she spotted Francis and she rushed over to the omega.

“Francis!” She yelled with an excited grin.

Francis turned with a startle, his mouth full of mince pie and looked at her with wide doe eyes. Quickly, he swallowed the pie and smiled just in time for her to pull him into a hug.

“Oh, I’m so glad you came,” she sighed as she wrapped her arms around him snuggly.

“Thank you for inviting me,” Francis told her as she stepped back out of the hug and took Francis’ hands in her own and smiled warmly.

“It’s lovely to meet you,” she cooed. Her eyes darted towards the small curve of Francis’ stomach and back up again, “how are you feeling?”

“I’m fine,” Francis smiled, “thank you for asking. The mince pies taste wonderful, by the way.”

Her smile looked utterly flattered, “I can give you the recipe if you’d like,” she said excitedly, “Arthur tells me you’re a wonderful baker.”

Francis smiled at Arthur and the alpha turned away quickly to hide his blush.

Francis smiled at him.

“We’ll have to cook something together while you’re here,” Arthur’s mum said excitedly as she and Francis sat down at the table with the rest of Arthur’s brothers.

Arthur watched them all laugh and chat from the edge of the room and felt a twinge of annoyance when Francis turned his attention back to Allistor as the red headed alpha began to tell some story or joke or something that Arthur refused to listen to. Instead he turned to make a cup of tea.

That night, Francis retired to their room early because he was tired and Arthur decided to join him. Francis lay on his side, facing away from Arthur and the blinding light of the bedside lamp as the alpha read some old book about the Second World War.

“Could you turn that light off?” Francis groaned softly as he turned his head to glare tiredly at Arthur.

Arthur gave him a sideways glance and a glare that Francis didn’t feel he deserved.

“I’m trying to read,” Arthur said curtly.

Francis gave an indignant scoff, “I’m trying to sleep.”

Arthur looked at him. He did look awfully tired. It made Arthur realise he was being a tad mean spirited and he put his book away with a sigh before turning off the lamp. That didn’t stop his jealousy from rearing its ugly head as he muttered, “trying to sleep with my brother.”

“Quoi?” Francis snapped tiredly as he struggled to turn over.

“Nothing,” Arthur said as he got under the duvet and closed his eyes.

“What did you say?” Francis asked angrily.

“It doesn’t matter,” Arthur said dismissively but Francis was riled up now.

“You think I’m trying to sleep with Allistor?” He asked indignantly.

“I didn't day anything about Allistor," Arthur told him before grumbling quietly, "I wouldn’t put it past you, though.”

“Mon dieu, you are unbelievable.”

“I’m unbelievable? I'm not the one flirting with my brother."

"I was not flirting with him, Arthur," Francis was completely indignant and despite how tired he was, still managed to yell quietly at Arthur, "we were just having a conversation."

"A very intimate one by the looks of things," Arthur grumbled.

Francis gave a high pitched exasperated groan, "why do you even care, Arthur? We're not together. You've made it perfectly clear you don't care who I date."

"This is my brother," Arthur countered in a whispered yell, "do you really want our children's step father to be their uncle as well? And by the way it should have been 'whom'."

Francis looked at Arthur with complete fury, he didn't say anything for a good few seconds and just as Arthur was really beginning to regret ever bringing up his brother at all, Francis grabbed the pillow from below his head and began slapping it against Arthur's face repeatedly.

He only stopped when he was satisfied that Arthur had been thoroughly throttled.

"I think you broke my nose," Arthur moaned weakly.

"Good," was all Francis said as he turned over and went to sleep.

The first thing Francis saw when he woke up was the light from his phone screen on the bedside table. The rest of the room was pitch black and it felt like the middle of the night. He reached over to check his phone and it might as well have been the middle of the night as far as Francis as concerned. 6am. Ridiculous. He hadn't woken up that early in years.

He put his phone back and turned over, hoping to get at least a little bit more sleep but as soon as he did, his stomach lurched and he knew he only had a finite amount of time to get to the bathroom.

He dashed down the hall and made it to the toilet just in time. His hair got in the way and he knew he was probably getting vomit in it but he didn't care at the minute. He was so preoccupied that he didn't notice when someone entered the bathroom until they crouched down beside him.

"Arthur?" He groaned, slowly turning his head to the side when he got a chance.

"It's me," Allistor said with an awkward smile.

"Allistor…"

"Your hair," Allistor said as he reached forward to scoop it behind Francis' head. It was just in time for the omega to wretch and lean forward agan. Allistor watched him in concern as he tentatively reached his other hand to rub soothing circles into Francis' back.

When the omega had nothing left to throw up, he looked at Allistor apologetically and took the tissues that he offered him, "I'm sorry," he said quietly, "did I wake you?"

"Nah," Allistor assured him with a smile, "I just got back from my morning walk when I heard you in here."

Francis smiled sadly, "thank you for checking on me," he found himself blushing as he tucked a strand of hair behind his ear and felt vomit in his hair, "I'm sorry you had to see me like this."

Allistor chuckled, "you still look a farsight better than I do in the mornings."

Francis chuckled too.

"Um...do you need anything? Anything to eat or...something?" Allistor asked.

Frwmcis hummed in thought, "something to eat would be nice, although I'd like to have a shower first if that's okay."

Allistor nodded, "aye that's fine, I can make you something to eat while you're in there."

"That would be lovely, thank you."

"Anything in particular?" Allistor asked as he stood up to leave Francis to shower.

"Toast would be nice. And some tea," Francis smiled.

"Toast and juice," Allistor repeated, shooting Francis a smile.

Francis came down in a long turtle neck jumper and another pair of tights and sat himself at the table. Allistor placed a plate of toast in front of him before sliding a jam jar and butter beside it.

"How do you like your tea?" He asked as he turned back to the kettle.

"4 sugars and no milk," Francis told him as he buttered his bread.

Allistor turned to raise an eyebrow at the omega, "is that you or the weans?"

"The weans?" Francis repeated.

"The babies," Allistor clarified, "I heard omegas get all sorts of weird cravings during pregnancy."

"Ah," Francis smiled in understanding as he lifted a hand to his stomach, "well, usually I don't even drink tea. I prefer coffee but recently I suppose I've been craving it. They both seem to enjoy sweet things a lot because I can't get enough sugar."

Allistor chuckled as he gave Francis his tea and sat down beside him before taking a sip from his own tea.

"So did you have a good night's sleep?"

"Ah, oui," Francis smiled as he finished his bite of toast, "I slept like a baby. Until these two woke me up."

Allistor smiled warmly, "are they behaving now?"

"At the minute," Francis sighed, "although most nights I can't even get to sleep with how much they move about."

"They sound like a couple of trouble makers," Allistor gave Francis a sympathetic smile.

Francis chuckled, "oh they definitely are. I can't remember the last time I got a decent night's sleep."

"Just kick Art out of the bed if he starts snoring."

Francis started to giggle, his laughter slowly morphing into a bubble of joy until the sound of someone clearing their throat across the room made him stop abruptly. Francis turned to the side to see Arthur standing in the doorway to the kitchen.

"You're up early," he told Francis, his face painted with a scowl.

"The twins woke me up," he told the alpha curtly as he placed both hands securely around his mug and took a sip.

When he looked back up at the alpha, he noticed that his expression had softened minutely, "how are they?"

Francis bristled and scowled into his tea, his grip on the mug tightening, "they're fine," he forced himself to say amicably.

Arthur nodded while eyeing Francis wearily as he walked over to turn the kettle on, "try to sound even less enthusiastic when talking about our children's wellbeing."

Francis gave a hurt gasp, "that's not at all how I meant it."

"Well then why do you sound irritated?" Arthur asked as he poured his tea, sparing Allistor a pointed glance.

"I just wish you would ask how I'm feeling for once."

The scoff Arthur gave in reply made Francis' heart twist, and the roll of his eyes made him feel utterly pathetic but the icing on the cake was the animosity with which he spat, "it's always got to be about you, hasn't it?"

Francis stood up, glaring daggers at Arthur before rushing off out of the kitchen. He didn't know where he was going but he knew he wasn't going to give Arthur the satisfaction of seeing him cry.

He found himself in Arthur's room, tearing his suitcase out from under the bed. He didn't bother turning around when he heard the alpha step into the doorway.

"You are a pig," he cried, releasing a startled gasp as he turned around to see it wasn't Arthur but his brother Allistor.

"Well, I've been called worse," he chuckled.

"I'm sorry, I didn't…" Francis gasped, "I thought you were Arthur."

"Aye, I told him to give you some space," Allistor told him, "thought that might be a good idea."

"Thank you," Francis smiled painfully, "I couldn't stand to be around that man for another second."

"That why you're packing?"

Francis glanced down at his half empty suitcase abashedly.

"Look, I know I'm the last person you'd expect to defend the bloke," Allistor started, "but he didn't mean it," he paused to consider, "well, if he did, I'll clip him round the head," he chuckled as Francis gave him a weak smile before the alpha carried on with a sigh, "obviously I won't stop you from leaving, but don't do it on account of him. He's a bastard but he's not worth it."

Francis stood quietly in thought, "I don't want to see his face right now," he finally said with a frown.

"Ye don't have'te," Allistor offered, "I can take ye into town for the day. Show you round."

Francis stilled for a second, "you'd do that?"

Allistor shrugged as if there was no question to it, "aye, a'course."

Francis smiled demurely as he placed the jumper he was holding back into the wardrobe before looking up at Allistor, "that sounds nice."

He closed his suitcase and began to lift it up, stopping with a soft gasp when Allistor grabbed it from his grasp, "I'll get that," he said gruffly.

As Francis took a step back and watched him, he couldn't help but blush as he noticed the muscled and toned contours of Allistor's back beneath his t-shirt. When Allistor turned to him after placing the case beneath the bed and smiled at Francis, something within the omega stirred and he felt his cheeks heat up further.

"I'll get my coat," Francis said quickly, he couldn't help stare at Allistor as he left the room.

averting his gaze as he left the room.

'Town' turned out to be a tiny, tiny village about an hour's drive away in Allistor's tiny old car that seemed to be about one pothole away from breaking down at all times. When they finally arrived, Francis was relieved to step out of the decrepit old thing. His relief quickly dissipated however once he realised he'd have to get back inside to get home.

He leaned over to open his door but before he could, it opened for him. He looked up to see Allistor and the alpha smiled at him. Francis gave him a demure smile in return as he reached for his outstretched hand.

"Merci, Allistor," the omega said as he was hoisted up.

"No problem," he replied as he closed the door behind the omega.

Francis smiled and followed Allistor down the cobblestoned street. He looked at the buildings on either side of the small road, the medieval architecture looked a mere 3 metres above his head in some places but the narrow street made it feel much taller. Francis gazed into one of the storefronts, a bakery filled with fresh bread, cakes, and pastries.

"Where are we going-" He turned to ask Allistor but he must have turned too quickly as his foot got caught in between the cobble stones and he took a tumble.

His heart was in his chest as he felt his ankle twist and his legs buckle. A protective hand flew to his stomach as he quickly outstretched the other. He didn't fall. Allistor caught him by the waist and held him close.

"Watch yer step," the alpha warned him gently with a concerned gaze.

Francis' hand found Allistor's chest almost automatically as he rested against the alpha for stability. He gazed at his hand pressed against the alpha's shirt, his cheeks heating up, and quickly he brought his hand back down to his side. The soft soothing scent that Allistor was secreting helped calm Francis and soon he was standing normally.

Francis looked at Allistor and for a moment he was uncharacteristically speechless as he stared at the alpha. Until he averted his gaze once more and carried on walking as he tucked a strand of hair behind his ear.

"Where are we going?" Francis repeated after clearing his throat.

Allistor removed the protective hand from around Francis' waist as he fell into step beside the omega.

"There's a small café down the street," Allistor explained as he led Francis round a corner, "it does nice tea and we can get a bite to eat."

"Sounds lovely," Francis smiled.

They took a seat by the window and Francis was glad to get off his feet even if he had only been walking for a few minutes. Like the rest of the buildings on the narrow street, the cafe Allistor took them to was small, not cramped at all but cozy. There was a fire on the far wall and it helped warm Francis from the chill of the British winter.

"This place is lovely," Francis said as he looked around before turning back to Allistor with a smile, "do you come here a lot?"

"When I visit mum," he explained as he took a sip of his coffee.

"Where do you live usually?" Francis asked, clutching his warm mug of chamomile for dear life.

"Glasgow."

Francis gave a soft hum of surprise, "that's quite far."

"Aye," Allistor answered, "do you live close to your family?"

Francis shook his head as he took a sip of his tea, "my parents live in Paris."

"That is quite far," Allistor said in surprise, "and your siblings?"

"Only child," Francis told him with a shrug.

Allistor chuckled, "living the dream."

"Oh non," Francis shook his head and smiled at Allistor, "I always wanted a big family…"

Allistor smiled softly as he leaned forward to rest his chin on his palm, "I suppose now you're getting one."

Francis' smile faltered for the split second his mind took to comprehend Allistor's words and then he was smiling fondly as he placed a hand over his bump, "I suppose you are right," he said as he smiled at the alpha.

Allistor gave him a warm, comforting smile in return that soothed Francis. Suddenly his expression faltered and he could smell the jolt of concern in Allistor's scent before the alpha even spoke.

"Are you okay?"

Francis was speechless for a moment as he stared at the hand on his stomach before slowly looking back up at Allistor.

"Francis?"

"I just felt the babies kick."

Allistor's eyes widened in surprise and he was still for a moment, "they've never done that before?"

"Not enough for me to feel them from the outside," Francis told him in a whisper.

Allistor watched him in awe before Francis looked up at him and gave a breathless smile.

"Would you like to feel?" Francis asked softly.

Allistor looked at Francis dumbly for a second before nodding his reply. He stood up and stepped around the table to kneel in front of Francis carefully. He reached a hand out and Francis took a hold of it to place beneath his own.

Allistor gazed down at the movement beneath his hand in amazement before turning his gaze back up at Francis. All he could give the omega was a breathless, "wow," but Francis smiled down at him nonetheless.

"I'm gontae be an uncle," Allistor sighed as his gaze fell once more to Francis' stomach.

The omega's breath hitched in his throat as his thoughts returned to Arthur and suddenly felt a strange tug in his chest that almost felt like guilt.

When they arrived home, they weren't greeted with the familiar scent of lavender incense that Arthur's mum liked to burn, but instead actual burning.

"Is there a fire?" Was Francis's First instinct.

"Arthur's probably cooking," Allistor said as he helped the omega with his coat.

Francis couldn't help but smile fondly, "you're probably right."

One step into the kitchen and their queries were answered, Arthur was bent over the stove wearing oven mitts and a puzzled expression.

"Francis," he said once he spotted the omega, "I...um…" he glanced nervously between Francis and the oven, his eyes gliding gracefully over the alpha by his side, before bending down to open it. He pulled out a tray of something Francis couldn't discern but could only guess as to being some kind of rock, "I wanted to apologise for...the way I acted this morning. That certainly wasn't he nicest way to start off Christmas Eve so um...I baked some scones as a sort of apology but um…" he turned to scowl at the oven and tap the small digital clock that sat above it, "the blasted thing appears to be broken."

"Don't worry about that," Francis smiled, an air of calmness and tranquility about him that felt odd when directed towards Arthur, "I think I overreacted this morning."

"Well I should be more understanding of your mood swings," Arthur said with an air of blitheness that made Francis' lip curl irritably.

"Right," Francis said, pushing his irritation down as he placed both hands on his stomach and said, "I have some exciting news, by the way," he smiled at Arthur softly, "the babies are kicking."

All emotion was lost from Arthur's face as he stared blankly at Francis for a second until he was blinking at the omega and asked, "what? Really? I-"

He threw the tray of burnt scones onto the stove top before pulling at his oven mitts. When they appeared reluctant to come off as quickly as his frenzy required he shook his hands about wildly until they were flying across the kitchen table. Within a flash, he was kneeling before Francis, his hands outstretched over his belly and an amazed look in his eyes that quickly fell into a look of worry when, "I...I can't feel anything."

Francis looked at him softly and gave him a small smile, "that's because they aren't kicking at the moment, mon cheri," Francis explained as he placed a hand beside Arthur's on his bump and combed the other through the alpha's hair.

Arthur's short disappointed exhale broke Francis' heart, "we felt them kicking while we were in town today."

"We?" Arthur repeated as he stood up. Francis didn't blink twice at the look of betrayal Arthur gave to Allistor but when he cast his gaze towards the omega, something in Francis' heart tightened.

"They've been moving around a lot ever since. Especially the one on the left," Francis reassured the alpha as he rubbed a comforting hand across the side of his stomach, "I'm sure you'll feel them move again."

Arthur's smile was small and weak and not at all convincing.

Francis was sitting in the living room with Dylan next to him on the sofa and Micheal sitting across the room on the other when he felt them kick again. His startled gasp drew both omega and alpha away from the cheesy Christmas film they were less than enthralled by and towards Francis who was sitting with both hands clutching his small stomach.

"Is everything okay?" Dylan asked attentively while Micheal only stared at the pair with reserved panic, the mirror image of his 2 alpha big brothers.

"The babies are kicking," he explained quickly to disabuse them of their worries.

Dylan's eyes lit up, "really?"

Francis nodded.

"Is it okay if I?" Dylan asked with an outstretched hand.

"Of course," Francis smiled as he moved his hand out of the way.

The omega's eyes widened breifly before he looked to Francis, "oh my," he gasped in awe, "they're a lively pair."

"It's really only the one that gets very lively," Francis explained as he gazed at the left side of his bump fondly before placing a had gently against the other, "this one seems calmer but when he kicks," Francis rolled his eyes in a light-hearted and exasperated manner, "it's enough to wake me up sometimes."

"My goodness," Dylan said with a soft chuckle and an apologetic smile.

He then turned to his younger brother and smiled emcouragingly, "Micheal, come feel this."

The young alpha shifted his weight awkwardly between each foot, "do I have to?"

Dylan rolled his eyes as he and Francis gave each other an understanding smile, "at least make yourself useful instead of standing around looking gormless," Dylan told him softly, "go and get Arthur; he's been moaning all evening about missing it already."

Micheal left the room swiftly and returned a few strides behind Arthur as the alpha sprinted in wearing an apron and collapsed at Francis' feet. He reached out as gently as he could and asked, "I didn't miss it this time, did I?"

"Desolé, mon cheri," Francis could see the heartbreak in Arthur's eyes as he said the words.

The alpha sighed sadly and let his head fall onto Francis' lap. The omega looked down at the alpha sorrowfully as he stroked his dusty blonde hair softly until the alpha lifted his head to look at him with a newfound sense of determination.

"Right," he said, "come and sit in the kitchen while me and mum make dinner so I don't miss it next time."

Francis chuckled, his smile warm and fond, "okay."

Arthur stood up and stretched a hand out for Francis to take. The omega grabbed hold of it and groaned as Arthur helped him up.

He sat at the kitchen table, cup of tea in hand, as Arthur and his mum prepared dinner. It took the omega a while to convince both the alpha and his mother that he didn't need any doting on while they cooked and that a cup of tea was just fine and they finally left him alone as they went about their tasks. Which were all going smoothly until the stove wouldn't light.

"Do we have any matches?" Arthur asked his mum.

Arthur's mum checked the cupboards and when they turned up empty, told him, "I think I left some in the garden shed."

Arthur stood lamely at the stove for a second as he looked longingly at Francis and then to his mother, "is it okay if you go and get them?"

Arthur's mum seemed confused, "I thought you'd gotten over your fear of the dark, Arthur, dear?"

Arthur blanched, "that's not- I wasn't," he groaned in exasperation, "fine," he said as he tore off his apron and slammed it in a ball on the table, "I'll go and get the bleeding things."

Francis watched his display with an amused smile and followed him with his eyes out of the kitchen and down the garden to the shed at the back. He shared a smile with Arthur's mum and suddenly he could feel it again, a movement on the left side of his belly.

He smiled widely at Linda, "they're kicking again."

Arthur's mum gasped and smiled back at him, taking a seat beside him as he moved his hand away and offered for the omega to feel his belly.

"My goodness," Arthur's mum breathed as she looked from Francis' stomach to smile at him, "I can't believe Arthur was the first of my children to give me a grandchild."

Her dreamy smile quickly vanished, "oh, Arthur," she looked out at the shed, "that's why he didn't want to leave. I'll go get him."

Francis watched her rush out of the kitchen, "Arthur! The babies are kicking! Come quick!"

The pair of omegas flinched as they heard a series of crashes and swearing fly from the garden shed before Arthur stumbled out of it and sprinted towards the kitchen door.

But no amount of running could have gotten him there in time because, as Francis informed the alpha from the chair next to him, "they stopped kicking a second after they started."

Arthur sighed and let his head rest gently on Francis' shoulder, "it's like they hate me."

"They don't hate you, mon cheri," Francis told him gently as he placed a hand over the back of his head.

"Then why do they only kick when I'm not here?" He said as he looked back up at Francis, his tone reminiscent of a petulant toddler.

Francis couldn't help but chuckle, "there will be other opportunities to feel them kicking."

Francis' reassurances did nothing to ease the look of disappointment on Arthur's face.

"He's right, Arthur, dear," Arthur's mum said as she placed a gentle hand around her son's shoulder and rubbed it gently, "this isn't the first time they've kicked and it certainly won't be the last. Now come on, let's finish making dinner. Did you get those matches?"

Arthur gasped, "no I...dropped them on my way out."

Arthur's mum chuckled, "I'll go and get them, you stay with Francis."

"But this was the first time and I missed it," the heartbreak in Arthur's voice was palpable.

Francis rolled over in the bed slightly to face the alpha, "there will be other times, Arthur."

"What if I miss those too?" Arthur fought back sadly. It was hard for Francis not to feel sorry for him but it was also getting hard to stay empathetic with the amount he had been whinging.

Still, it was hard for Francis to see the father of his children in such distress, and he felt his chest tighten in sadness for the alpha.

"Give me your hand," Francis instructed him.

"Why? Are they kicking?" Arthur asked and it was impossible to miss the burst of hope and excitement that cut through his scent.

"Non," Francis told him as he turned back over and placed Arthur's hand against his belly as he shuffled back slightly until they were flush against each other, "but hopefully this way you will be able to feel when they do."

Francis wasn't sure what time it was when Arthur woke him up, but the room was pitch black and silent save for Arthur's frantic whispers of his name.

"Francis...Francis…"

Francis groaned delicately as he was pulled from his slumber. Even if Arthur hadn't been whispering quite loudly in his ear, he probably would have woken up from the amount of movement inside him. He gasped softly as he realised it was coming from both sides; both babies were going crazy but only kicking directly where Arthur's hand was pressed against his belly.

"I can feel him," Arthur gasped softly in amazement, "oh my god, Francis…"

Francis smiled as he turned over to face Arthur and pressed the alpha's other hand against the right side of his belly where the other baby was kicking too.

Arthur released a shaky breath as he looked from Francis' stomach to the omega himself, "they're both kicking."

Francis smiled before narrowing his eyes slightly, "how do you know one of them is a boy?"

Arthur shrugged as his eyes dropped to Francis' belly once more, "I can just feel it. He's a little alpha boy," he told the omega.

Francis scoffed playfully, he looked at Arthur who was looking at his stomach while he rested a hand beneath his head, "and what if they are both little omegan girls?" Francis asked as he softly stroked his hand along the right side of his stomach.

"Well then...I suppose," he sighed shyly, "I would have to rethink the name I'd chosen."

Francis stilled slightly in shock. The realisation that Arthur had been thinking about such things shouldn't have been all that surprising given the omega had been thinking of the exact same things, but still it came as quite a revelation. One that made the omega blush and his chest feel strangely warm.

"What name was that?" Francis asked softly.

Arthur stared down at the omega's belly for a while before turning back up to look at the omega. The name seemed to be stuck on his tongue, unwilling to leave his mouth but after a few seconds of anticipation, the alpha smiled at Francis and said, "I've...always liked the name Alfred."

Francis didn't know what he had been expecting, but Alfred still came as a sort of surprise. A pleasant surprise.

"Alfred," he said softly, testing the name out on his tongue. It was a nice name. Plain, simple yet strong and sturdy like Arthur. Francis found it growing on him. Of course, he didn't say that to Arthur, "it's very English."

Arthur chuckled and shook his head, "and I suppose you have an entire array of french names with which to saddle the poor child."

Francis pursed his lips in annoyance, "well I was thinking Marie...after my mother," he said as he stroked the right side of his belly before moving his hand to the other, "and Francoise after my grandmother."

"So we're having two omegan girls, are we?" Arthur chuckled incredulously, unable to suppress his fond smile.

Francis shrugged, "one might be an alpha or a beta. I do not know."

Arthur's smile was unwavering and his laughter bright, "and you get to name both of them?"

"It's only fair, seeing as how I am carrying both of them."

"Right," Arthur smiled, "how about we make a deal?"

Francis raised his brows in question.

"If it's 2 girls, you get to name them both. But if they end up as boys then I get to name them both."

Francis thought about it for a moment or so. While the prospect of getting to name both of his children without any complaint from Arthur was tempting, the thought that the alpha might also get the chance was daunting enough to give him pause.

"And what if one is a girl and one is a boy?"

Arthur shrugged, "then we name one each."

Francis pursed his lips and looked at Arthur as he considered the alpha's proposition, "fine," he agreed, "what will happen if one of the alphas is a girl?"

Arthur thought for a second before smiling maniacally, "well I could name her after my great aunt Mildred."

The alpha broke down laughing immediately at the look of horror on Francis' face before explaining, "I'm joking. I don't have an aunt Mildred."

Francis sighed with relief.

"Although…" Arthur sighed, a mischievous glint in his eye, "the name Mildred is quite pretty now that I think of it."

When Francis woke up on Christmas morning, it was after a surprisingly peaceful night's sleep. After the twins burst of energy that had woken both him and Arthur in the middle of the night, they had stayed relatively still afterwards and Francis managed to get more sleep than he had done in what felt like months. When he turned over, he was greeted with the sight of his sleeping Alpha who opened his eyes as soon as he heard Francis turn over.

Francis smiled at him tiredly, "did I wake you?"

"No, no," Arthur told him quickly as he sat up and stretched, his spine releasing a flurry of harsh sounding pops and crack, "I've been awake for a while I just…" he smiled his shy little smile as he looked at Francis continued, "didn't want to wake you. You looked rather peaceful for once."

The alpha looked thoughtful and Francis smiled back at him as he wrapped himself tightly in the sheets, "good call."

Arthur's smile widened as he watched Francis all cosy beneath the sheets, "do you want a cup of tea? I can bring you one."

Francis moaned happily at the thought, "thank you, mon cher, that sounds lovely."

The alpha returned just as Francis was beginning to fall back asleep and the omega opened his eyes to see the alpha handing him a steaming mug. He took it gladly and sighed Contentedly at the smell, "thank you."

"No problem," Arthur replied pleasantly as he settled back under the duvet beside Francis to drink his own tea.

"When are we expected downstairs?" Francis asked before taking a sip of the tea.

"Everyone's downstairs apart from Micheal so we have a while. Not even you could outsleep that boy."

Francis chuckled, "an alpha after my own heart."

They got up and came downstairs after they had finished their tea. It was Christmas morning and, as tradition in the Kirkland household dictated, the pair came down in their pyjamas. Of course, that was only after an inordinate amount of time spent on Arthur's behalf trying to convince Francis that his hair looked fine the way it was and that no he didn't need to brush or curl it into perfect effortless waves; his family didn't care how he looked.

Finally, he descended the stairs with his naturally curly hair, in the way that,if he were being honest, Artur actually preferred. But he didn't know what would happen if he told Francis that.

"Merry Christmas!" Dyland greeted them both with a warm hug before Arthur's mum descended on them with warm cups of tea and freshly toasted crumpets.

"Merry Christmas," Arthur replied as he took one of the offered mugs and passed the other to Francis who sat himself down at the kitchen table next to Allistor.

The alpha smiled at him and offered the omega some jam to put on his crumpet. Francis smiled back as he took a bite. Linda's voice drew his attention away as she tutted and looked around, "just waiting on Mikey then?"

"Aye," Allistor replied as he leaned back in his chair, "I told the wee bugger to wake up half an hour ago. All he gave me was a groan in response."

Arthur's mum tutted, a fond yet exasperated smile on her face as she sat down at the table next to Francis. She looked at the omega and then to Arthur before asking, "did you sleep well?"

The pair looked at each otherand shared a knowning smile.

"Wonderfully," Francis replied on both their behalves.

It was then that Micheal stepped into the kitchen, eyes closed as he yawned and scratched his face.

Christmas was held in the living room beside the Christmas tree. Francis was allowed a spot on one of the sofas, beside Arthur's mum while Arthur and Micheal had to sit on the floor as the two youngest siblings. Even if Arthur was only second youngest by three seconds.

"This one is for you dear."

Francis took the parcel which Arthur's mum offered him and unwrapped it gently. IT was a small parcel, and light too. It didn't make a sound when shaken and when Francis opened it up, he understood why. There were two pairs of knitted yellow mittens, each with their own pattern woven into the thread. One had white bears and the other had brown bears and they were both connected by a long piece of string to keep them threaded through the childrens winter coats.

"Oh, Linda, thank you."

Francis smiled at Linda who smiled back at him warmly, "you're welcome dear. I made them myself, I hope they're alright."

"They're perfect."

Francis came upstairs to start packing and instead found Arthur in their bedroom sitting on the bed, hunched over something that the omega couldn't make out and sniffling and sighing sadly. It was an odd picture. For one thing because the omega had never really seen Arthur in such an emotional state and, given the day they had just had, he was confused by what could have been causing it.

"Arthur?"

The alpha clearly hadn't heard Francis enter the room as he gasped in surprise and looked upon the omega with a horrified expression, before looking away and hiding his tears in shame.

"Arthur?" Francis repeated, voice laced with concern as he hurried carefully across to the alpha, "what's wrong?"

Francis Followed Arthur's embarrassed stare and looked down and finally realised what he was holding. It was the mittens that Arthur's mum had made them for Christmas. But instead of coming to some kind of understanding, the revelation only made him more confused.

Francis sat down next to the alpha and brought his face to look at him, "why are you crying, Arthur?"

The alpha released a shaky breath, his face a deep shade of plum as he spoke, "they're so...small."

Francis frowned until he realised what Arthur meant and he smiled sweetly.

"How can a person be so tiny?" The alpha asked as he stared down intently at the mittens and stuck one of them over a finger, "I can barely fit them over one finger."

Francis smiled, "you do have rather large hands, mon cheri," he said as he placed his small, slender hand over Arthur's, the difference in size quite stark when laid out in front of them like that.

Arthur looked down at both of them and felt his chest swell. He looked to Francis, a desperately tender look in his eyes and suddenly the omega found Arthur kneeling on the floor in front of him. Francis looked down at him curiously as the alpha took a hold of his hands.

"Francis," he said breathlessly as he looked up at the omega, "I promise I'll protect you," his eyes dropped to Francis' belly and he lifted a hand to tenderly caress the surface, "all of you. I promise, "he looked back at Francis with determination, "I won't abandon you like my bastard of a father. For the rest of my life...I'll be here for you. I... I'll be a good dad."

Francis didn't realise he had been crying until he heard the crack in his voice as he tried to speak, "Arthur…" he sighed, "of course. Of course you will," the omega cupped his hands around the alpha's face gently as he looked at him.

"I just...needed you to know that," Arthur sighed gently.

Francis was shaking his head slightly as he pulled Arthur up into a hug, "I know. Arthur, I already know."

"I didn't want you to worry," Arthur spoke into the omega's soft hair, "about me leaving you."

Francis cupped the alpha's face so that he could look at him as he spoke, "I've never worried about that. You're a good alpha, Arthur."

"Francis…" Arthur sighed breathlessly as he pulled the omega into a desperately tight embrace, "I'm sorry I got you into this mess."

"I'm not," Francis said as he pulled Arthur back to look into his eyes once more, "I was before…," he admitted, "I was scared and upset and I...I didn't know what to do but...I'm not anymore. Arthur, I'm so excited," he dropped a hand to caress his belly, "I already love them both so much and I can't wait to meet them."

Arthur smiled at Francis as if he were a dazzling diamond, he took a hand and caressed the omega's cheek, brushing his soft blonde hair out of his face, "neither can I."

They said goodbye to everyone after they had finished packing, one brother in particular making it quite hard to leave.

"You'll let us know when the babies arrive, won't you?" Dylan pressed urgently, "so we can come and visit."

"Of course," Francis assured him as he gave the omega's hands a tight squeeze.

Dyland smiled softly before pulling Francis into another hug, "I hope everything goes well. And it was lovely to meet you, Francis."

"It was lovely to meet you too," Francis sighed as he pulled out of the hug, his gaze falling over each family member, "all of you. It was lovely. Thank you for letting us stay, Linda."

"You're welcome anytime, love."

Francis smiled before his gaze fell on Arthur's older brother, "I would love to come back and visit soon."

"Alright," Arthur interjected, "bye everyone. It was lovely but we're really going to miss our train if we don't leave now."

Francis rolled his eyes but smiled nonetheless, "au revoir," he waved as they started down the garden bath, waving behind him while Arthur towed both suitcases along. Francis smiled as they all waved goodbye before turning to Arthur as the alpha loaded their cases into the boot of the taxi, "thank you for inviting me. It was nice. You have a nice family."

Arthur blushed, shrugging as he concentrated intently on his task of loading the boot, "I’m glad we came."

He trailed off as he closed the boot. Francis smiled. He decided that Arthur was definitely going to make a good father.

Chapter Text

Arthur hadn't been particularly nervous about meeting Francis' parents while on the fight over but now that he was standing at the front door of Francis' childhood mansion (Arthur couldn't imagine classifying anything this large and grand as a house) he suddenly felt sick with worry.

It didn't make it any easier to bear when Francis quietly told him, "I have good news and bad news."

Arthur gave him a weary look.

"I called maman last night and told her about the twins. Naturally we don't have to tell papa anymore," his smile was wide and enthusiastic but didn't quite meet his eyes.

Arthur couldn't help but be wary, "what's the bad news?"

"They think we're engaged."

Arthur could only look at him, mouth agape for a second before, "why the bloody hell would they think that, Francis?"

"Because I might have told maman that we were."

Arthur was staring at Francis with an intense and incredulous glare. He was about to open his mouth to berate the omega when the door opened and he had to snap it shut. He turned to greet Francis' parents but was startled to find an elderly woman dressed in a traditional maid's uniform. Arthur shifted to give Francis a bewildered glance but found the omega far too preoccupied with saying hello to notice him.

"Hélène," the omega yelled happily as he stepped forward to give the old woman a hug, "it's so good to see you. How are you?"

Arthur watched in reserved silence as Hélène pulled back from the omega and beamed at him, "I'm fine, mon petit, but you...you look wonderful."

"Hélène…" Francis blushed.

Hélène chuckled as she cupped Francis' cheeks in a manner that Arthur would have thought overly friendly for a maid. Not that he had any frame of reference.

"Your mother told me the big news," she smiled, "congratulations, this is so exciting."

She then turned to Arthur with a grin as she ushered the pair inside and closed the door behind them before taking their coats, "you must be Arthur, I've heard a lot about you."

Arthur was slightly too enraptured by the grand entrance to Francis' parents house. He'd only really seen anything like this in films or pictures of bloody Buckingham palace. Really, who needs a staircase that big?

He turned to Hélène as soon as he heard his name and smiled as he stuttered through his greeting, "b-bonjour, Helèna."

Hélène smiled at the Englishman despite the butchering of her name before turning to shuffle through a doorway down the hall. Arthur turned to give Francis a bewildered stare as soon as Hélène was no longer facing them and mouthed, "you have a maid?"

Francis only gave the alpha a pointed look that told him he better not say anything as his parents, followed by Hélène, walked out into the hall.

Suddenly all the awestruck incredulity that Arthur had for the fact Francis lived in a fucking mansion and had a maid melted away at the sight of the omega's parents. Francis' mother, who bore a striking resemblance to the omega, was smiling pleasantly enough at Arthur. The same could not be said for Francis' father. The alpha was at least a few centimetres taller than Arthur but it wasn't his height alone that intimidated Arthur. The alpha was staring at Arthur with such vehement loathing that it made him feel absolutely tiny. It felt like the most animosity Artur had felt directed towards him in his entire life, and he had been pretty annoying in secondary school.

Arthur was more than relieved when Francis took him by the arm and pulled him close and said, "maman, papa, this is Arthur."

Arthur smiled awkwardly, but before he could open his mouth and inadvertently make his discomfort anymore glaringly obvious, his father looked Arthur dead in the eyes after sizing him up and said, "so this is the alpha who knocked up my son?"

Arthur gulped. Either Francis' father had no idea that Arthur could (somewhat) speak French. Or he just didn't care. Arthur had no idea which one was worse. Either way, he felt like a deer in headlights trapped underneath this immense man's glare. Any lesser man might have fainted. Arthur certainly might've if he didn't have Francis beside him.

"Maurice!" Francis' mother chastised the alpha who seemed completely unfazed by her harsh tone as he kept his wrathful stare fixed on Arthur.

"Papa!" Francis yelled, "he can understand what you just said."

Maurice seemed unfazed by this revelation as well and Arthur settled rather pathetically on the decision that he probably didn't give a crap what Arthur thought.

"Sorry about him," Francis' mother said with an apologetic smile, "he's still coming to terms with the...the news."

From the looks of her grimace, it seemed that Francis' mother was also still coming to terms with the news and suddenly Arthur felt a great deal of pain for Francis. This couldn't be an enjoyable experience for him, he needed to get them out of there.

"Um...where is it that I should...um...put the bags?" Arthur said in what he hoped was understandable French.

Marie looked at him like a bug caught on the bottom of her pristine high heel before seemingly catching herself and smiling sweetly, "Hélène will take them upstairs. You'll be sleeping in Francis' old room."

Hélène smiled pleasantly as she reached for the suitcases still in Arthur's grasp but he resisted, telling them, "that's okay, I can follow you up. We need to unpack anyway. Francis has some shirts that need to be hung up in case they wrinkle."

"I do?" Francis asked in confusion until he recognised Arthur's pointed look, "oh yes, that's right. I do," he turned back to his parents, "we'll come meet you downstairs in a bit."

Francis sighed as he collapsed onto his childhood bed in the middle of the room. Arthur couldn't help but stare at the sheer size of it and Imagine that even when Francis was a teen, it probably saw its fair share of visitors.

"Thank you," Francis said when Arthur closed the door behind him, signaling that they were alone, "I don't know how I'm going to deal with an entire weekend of that. And I'm sorry about the way my father acted. Papa, he's…"

"He's a very traditional alpha," Arthur offered with a sigh as he set the suitcases down and stepped towards Francis.

The omega smiled sadly, "yes," he said as he leaned back and placed a hand on his belly.

Arthur came down to sit beside the omega on the delicate lavender sheets that were surprisingly soft, "so," he sighed, "we're engaged? Any idea when the wedding is?"

Francis groaned weakly, "just go along with it, please? They reacted badly enough when I told them I was unmated, this seemed to satisfy them enough."

"And how long am I expected to go along with this little charade?" Arthur sighed.

Francis was suspiciously silent.

"You are planning on telling them, aren't you?"

Francis looked at him nervously, "non?"

"Francis, that's ridiculous. They'll find out eventually and how do you think they'll react then? HM?"

"I can't tell them. It's too stressful," he gave Arthur a sideways glance before running a hand over his belly and pouting, "and stress isn't good for the babies."

Arthur found his brows falling into their natural furrow, "so that's how it's going to be, is it? You, using our children to emotionally manipulate me into doing anything you want."

Francis' cheeks turned a glorious shade of pink. He tried to push himself off the bed but was having a little trouble and when Arthur offered a hand, he swatted it away and glared at the alpha as he finally managed to do it himself, "I wasn't doing anything like that," he said with an intense glare. He looked furious but Arthur could see the hurt in his eyes, hear it in his tone and feel it seeping painfully into his scent, "it's not like I'm asking you to pull the moon out of your arse. I was just asking you to act like you don't hate me for more than 5 minutes. But of course, even that's too much for you."

Arthur was left standing alone next to Francis' bed as the omega stormed out and slammed the door behind him. He couldn't help but feel guilty, maybe he had been a tad harsh. With a sigh, he stood up and walked towards the door but before he could place his hand around the handle, he stopped and reconsidered his actions. Francis probably needed some time to cool off. He always did when he was angry at Arthur and he knew by now that seeing the alpha's face would just make him more upset.

So, he turned on his heel and decided to fill the time with something useful. Francis may not have had many shirts that actually needed to be unwrinkled but Arthur knew the omega would still appreciate his clothes hanging up. So he opened the omega's suitcase and started to hang up everything that was inside.

After he had completed his task and subsequently spent what he judged as the correct amount of time twiddling his thumbs on Francis' bed, he went downstairs in search of the omega. He found him in the kitchen, smiling and laughing with Hélène as they prepared some sort of food. When Francis spotted Arthur, the omega smiled and Arthur could feel the warmth radiating from his eyes and his scent. He smiled back in an almost shy manner as the omega walked over to him.

"Arthur, I'm sorry about what I said in my bedroom," he said as he stood in front of the alpha at a safe distance and said in a hushed voice as Hélène busied herself with the oven, "I'll come clean to my parents tonight."

"No," Arthur found himself saying before he even realised. Francis' eyes opened gently in surprise as Artur carried on, "it's fine, darling," he said as he pulled the omega close and placed a stage kiss on his cheek, "you don't have to do that. I'm the one who should apologise."

Francis was looking at him in shock when he pulled away. An expression that quickly melted into a tender smile of thanks, "you don't have to do this for me."

"But I want to," he smiled.

Francis opened his mouth but didn't get the chance to speak as Hélène told them that dinner was ready.

They sat down in Francis' dining room around a long glass table with Francis' parents. The meal itself didn't go as badly as Arthur had been terrified it would. That was until His father asked Francis a question that Artur wasn't sure he had understood properly.

"When will you be moving back to France?"

The table went quiet. Francis' father was staring pointedly at the omega as he chewed his cake while his mother was watching wearily for both their reactions. Francis was staring at his father in disbelief and Arthur was just silently hoping that he had misheard the alpha.

"What? I wasn't...we aren't...I'm staying in England, papa," the omega said in a tone Arthur knew meant to sound stern but only came out as slightly petulant when directed at an alpha like Francis' father.

"Don't be ridiculous, Francis. The children need a proper upbringing."

"Your father is right, mon chou," his mother agreed, her look of concern saccharin sweet.

Francis looked between his parents in betrayal, "sorry, I must have missed the part of the conversation where we agreed I was incapable of making my own decisions."

His father looked at Francis, his expression painfully stoic and sincere, "you obviously can't be trusted to make your own decisions if it means you end up pregnant and unmated."

The omega was too stunned to speak. He looked at his parents with an open mouth, and after a moment, got up slowly, glaring at his parents, and left the table without saying a word.

Arthur could only sit there for a few seconds before the sensation that he was about to burst into flames became too much and he excused himself to follow Francis.

He stepped into his bedroom a few paces behind the omega and closed the door behind him.

"Are you alright?" Arthur asked as he took a step towards the omega.

Francis looked at him with big blue sad eyes and slowly shook his head as he released a whimper. Arthur wasn't really sure what to do, he had always been an awkward person and comforting people, especially omegas, had never come easy to him but thankfully he didn't have to do much as Francis took a step towards him and softly fell against his chest. The alpha was silently startled for a second before he lifted his arms and wrapped them around the omega. He felt Francis nuzzle against him and tried to wrest away the pain from his scent.

"I'm sorry," he said finally, "I should have stood up for you back there."

"It's okay," Francis said quietly and only then did Arthur realize the omega had been crying.

"Francis…" Arthur sighed as he pulled the omega out of their hug and held Francis' face in his hands, tugging his blonde hair behind his ear.

"I knew they weren't exactly over the moon but…" he trailed off into a sniffling mess of high pitched sobs that made Arthur's stomach hurt. He had never felt a greater need to protect the omega.

Except he was still the awkward lump he'd always been and didn't really know what to do so he wrapped his arms around Francis and pulled the omega as tight and close as his round belly would allow.

Eventually Francis pulled away from the hug and went to sit on his bed as he gave Arthur a grateful smile. Francis wasn't that big yet but still it was getting a little hard for him to sit himself down on anything that wasn't a hard backed chair.

Arthur followed him, sitting down beside the omega as he rested a comforting hand on his thigh.

Francis sighed and looked at the floor as he let his head fall gently onto the pillow, "they've always been like this," he explained, "they've alway cared more about others' opinions than if I'm happy or not."

Arthur wanted to pull Francis into a hug and chase his frown away with his scent. He opened his mouth to say something but Francis beat him to it.

"I know what you're going to say," Francis sighed, "and you're right. I shouldn't complain. I had everything I could ever want. I was provided for. I'm just being an ungrateful spoiled little brat."

"No, Francis," Arthur said, his face melting with concern, "you have a right to be angry at your parents. What they said was out of line."

Francis looked at Arthur in surprise and gave a sniff.

"Parents should love a child unconditionally," Arthur said as he leaned forward to press his hand against the omega's belly.

Francis smiled weakly at Arthur as he placed a hand next to the alpha's. He could feel their children stir inside him at the contact and soon they were smiling giddily at each other as the babies kicked against the omega's stomach.

"I would trade all the money in the world to live in a family like yours," Francis told the alpha eventually.

Arthur chuckled ruefully, "growing up in it was no picnic either, I'll tell you that. After the old bastard walked out on us, Allistor had to look after us while mum was at work. He was only 10 but we couldn't afford childcare. He used to hit me when I was naughty and when I cried. I was naughty all the time and I cried when he hit me," Arthur chuckled, "I was also an annoying little cunt the other half of the time so I probably deserved it. He stopped when we got older. I love him now but, god, I used to hate him," Arthur gave Francis an amused smile, "I remember going to church at Easter once with school and praying that God would drown him in the river by our house."

Francis couldn't help but laugh in surprise, "Arthur.."

The alpha looked at Francis with a pursed smile, "after that he actually did fall into a lake and caught pneumonia. He ended up in hospital and I cried because I thought I'd killed him."

"Oh Arthur," Francis smiled warmly at him.

"Every family has their hangups," Arthur spoke softly, "all we can do is try to learn from our parents and their mistakes and do the best that we can."

"You're right," Francis sighed as he leaned his sighed against the purple cushioned headboard and looked down at himself wistfully.

Arthur looked at Francis and sighed. For as much time as he had spent convincing himself that he disliked the man, there was nothing that made him hurt half as much as when the omega wasn't smiling.

In an attempt at comforting that felt more like grasping at straws, the alpha stuff up and made an overexaggerated display of looking around the room.

"So this is the room you grew up in?" He mused, his hands on his hips and a cheesy smile on his face.

Francis smiled back if only slightly and nodded.

Artur was undeterred, he twisted around and took a step towards Francis' dresser where a record player was sitting. Arthur looked up and smiled to find a shelf which was supporting a small collection of vinyls. He turned to the omega and grinned, "right then, let's judge your taste."

Francis rolled his eyes as the alpha turned around to nose through the stack but found himself smiling a little. He watched as Arthur picked something from the shelf and stuck it on the record player.

Francis recognised it immediately and smiled.

"You know," Arthur said as he turned back to Francis, "after Gil put on that god awful electronic music, this song started playing the night we..um...well when I...the first time we uh...when you were drunk and I ugh...well took you back to your place and we...you know...for the first time. At the office party, that is."

Francis felt himself grinning, "you remember that? You must think about that night a lot," he teased.

"What?" Artur chuckled nervously, "No. Of course... I don't…"

"Arthur…" Francis purred, his lips curling evilly.

"What?" The alpha snapped in embarrassment.

Francis only smiled, "I think about that night a lot too."

Arthur looked at Francis, his blush encapsulating almost his entire face. He almost couldn't look the omega in the eye but when he did, Francis' smile made him feel warm and relaxed.

"I also think about Gil's 25th birthday a lot. Do you remember?" Francis' tone took on a sinister lilt and smile grew evil.

"Shit," Arthur swore, blushing furiously as he turned away from Francis to fiddle with the record player aimlessly, "no…" he murmured, "I don't recall…"

"Well," Francis started with a fond smile, "you were quite drunk. Drunk enough to get on top of Gil's desk and stumble your way through a sad Elton John impression.

"I did not stumble," Arthur asserted indignantly as he turned back around, "I knew all the words. I still do. And that impression was uncanny, for your information."

Francis smirked, "you didn't know the words then and you don't know."

Artur gave the omega a cocky smirk that rivaled his own as he got into position to play his imaginary piano just in time to sing along, "b-b-b-bennie and the jets."

Francis watched as the alpha gave an impeccable rendition of Bennie and the Jets, singing along to the words an striking the imaginary chords just right like the omega knew he would. Francis laughed gleefully as he watched Arthur make a fool of himself all for Francis' enjoyment.

Francis smiled as the door opened and he saw Hélène step through cautiously. Francis smiled at her.

"I hope I'm not interupting," she smiled.

Arthur's blood ran cold, his body went rigid and he spun around to stare at Hélène in terror.

"Ahhh, no, we weren't...um...we weren't doing anything."

She chuckled as Arthur hurriedly went to turn off the record player.

"Your parents wanted to speak with you, Francis."

The good mood that Arthur had been carefully piecing together crumbled in a matter of seconds, "I don't really want to speak to them."

Hélène gave the omega an understanding smile, "they said they wanted to apologise."

"They did?"

Francis looked so hopeful and Arthur couldn't help but mirror the sentiment. The omega smiled at Arthur as he stood up and made his way over to the door, "I'll be right back,"

When Francis returned, the good mood Arthur had worked so hard to to wrap Francis in had crumbled away and the omega seemed even more distressed then when he had rushed off to seek shelter in his bedroom in the first place.

"What did they say now?" Arthur asked, a comforting hand came to Rest on the omega's shoulder.

Francis looked at him with a frown and folded his arms across his chest in irritation, "they offered to buy us a house."

Arthur mirrored Francis' frown, only his was born of sudden confusion, "how...awful of them?"

"A house here, Arthur," the omega explained with a sigh, "In France."

"Oh," the word fell from the alpha's lips pathetically as he realised what that meant.

Francis pursed his lips and hummed in Confirmation, "they're trying to bribe me into staying."

Arthur knew there was only one thing to say. One thing to ask Francis now, but he was quite frankly terrified of the answer. The thought of his children growing up in an entirely different country was enough to make his chest hurt. And more than that, the prospect of not having Francis around was surprisingly, heart wrenchingly lonely.

"Well," he started, trying not to sound too averse to the notion, "do you want to stay?"

Arthur braced himself.

"I…" the omega sighed, "I don't know."

That wasn't the reassurance Arthur had wanted. He didn't know what to say as he tried to come to terms with the idea of Francis moving away.

"It doesn't matter what I want anyway," Francis sighed as he looked wistfully at the alpha, "I couldn't take the children to France, if you weren't there with me."

An immense sense of relief washed over Arthur. And an odd warm feeling that was slightly unnerving spread through his chest. He hadn't even considered Moving to France himself. Mainly because his family, his job and his friends were all in England. Not to mention the fact he'd be moving to the worst place on Earth. But if he were being honest with himself, all things considered, being with Francis outweighed most of that.

"I suppose I could live in France."

"But your family is in England," the omega was quick to argue.

"I hate my brothers," Arthur was even quicker to rebuke.

Francis pursed his lips and smiled sadly, "no you don't. And even if you did, you'd miss your mother far too much."

Arthur looked at the omega and grabbed his hands, "but I could do it if that's what you wanted, Francis."

"I don't even know if that's what I want," Francis sighed, "I've lived in England since I was 18, the last 10 years of my life have been there. That's where my job is, my friends…" he looked thoughtfully at the floor before looking up at Arthur with a deep breath, "I don't think I could move back here."

Arthur couldn't help the hopeful smile that captured his mouth. He gave Francis' hands a squeeze as he looked at the omega tenderly, "then we don't have to. We can stay in England, we don't need a big house or endorsements in a from your parents to raise our children properly. My mum raised 4 boys on her own and we all turned out fine."

Artur gave the omega a proud, hopeful grin that Francs returned with a small, fond smile.

"Apart from the fact you don't know how to pluck your eyebrows," Francis teased.

"I told you, they're cursed," Arthur scowled, causing his caterpillars to bristle angrily. Francis held back a giggle. Arthur's expression softened again as he looked at the omega, "we'll be fine on our own," he reassured him with a gentle squeeze of his hand, "we hadn't been banking on anyone's help thus far. That doest need to change."

Francis pursed his lips, his delicate brows knitting together in consternation, "mm, I'd been hoping they'd give me something," he sighed, "not a house but, you know, a pushchair or... something."

"It's okay, we'll be okay, I have money saved up and -"

"But that's your money, shouldn't you save it for an emergency?"

"This is kind of an emergency, Francis."

"Right…" Francis' voice was suddenly very quiet, "Mon dieu, you're right. This is serious. What am I going to do?"

"It'll be fine, Francis," Arthur raised an assuring arm to his shoulder while Francis let his head fall into his hands.

"Mon dieu, what the hell was I thinking? I can't raise 2 children by myself."

"How many times do I have to tell you? You're not by yourself. You have me. We're in this together. I'm not leaving you."

Francis sniffed as he looked at Arthur, "I know…" he sighed, "I know, I just…there's just part of me that's terrified you'll leave. It's not like we're mated. We're not married. We're not even dating. You have no obligation to stay with me, Arthur."

"Francis," Arthur said, his voice authoritative like an alpha yet gentle like himself, "I'm not saying with you out of obligation. I do feel a sense of duty towards you and the children, that goes without saying but really…Francis I…I lo…I…I…I…I want to be with you. I want to be a father to these children. And I have no doubt in my mind about it."

"Arthur…"

The way Francis was looking at him, his eyes soft and gentle as a smile slowly spread across his lips. His head came towards Arthur's and the alpha felt his heart rate quicken.

Until Francis let his head fall onto Arthur's shoulders and sigh, "I'm tired."

Arthur let out his bated breath in a soft chuckle, mainly towards himself.

"It's rather late. You should get some rest."

Francis looked at Arthur and smiled before standing up. The alpha lifted his arm and helped him up then averted his gaze as the omega took his clothes off.

"It's nothing you haven't seen before, Arthur, mon cheri," Francis chuckled as he got into bed.

"I know," Arthur said defensively, "I'm just giving you your privacy," he said as he turned around to get his own pyjamas on.

"I know," Francis said softly as he watched Arthur from the back, "but I don't mind."

Arthur turned around and Francis was holding the duvet covers up, inviting Arthur to lie next to him.

The omega had nothing on and Arthur knew he would be bright as a tomato. He buttoned the last of his flannel pyjama shirt before crawling into bed beside Francis. The omega snuggled up against him and let his head rest against his shoulder.

"Whenever I sleep next to you, and I can smell your scent, the children always settle down and have a good night's rest."

Arthur felt his chest heat up with warmth, he smiled and held Francis tighter as he realised there was nowhere else he'd rather be in that moment.

"At least I'm good for something," he chuckled dryly.

When Francis went down to breakfast the next morning, he had expected his mother to criticize many things but his fashion sense had not been one of them.

"Weren't you wearing that yesterday?"

Francis reddened at the accusation. The piece of bread he had been about to eat was promptly discarded as he looked down himself at the large black turtleneck he had been wearing for the past few days.

He looked at Arthur breifly across the table who gave him a concerned gaze before he looked at his Mother, "is that a problem?"

His mother shrugged, "I suppose it's not," although the sneering curl of her lips suggested she wasn't as impartial to the observation as she said she was, "I just thought I had taught my son better than that."

"I have other clothes, maman," Francis rolled his eyes before his irritated expression fell into something more somber as he looked down at himself. He lowered a hand to cradle his belly as he admitted sadly, "it's just...none of them fit me particularly well at the moment."

"Oh, mon petit," he mother cooed as she stroked her son's cheek, "well, I suppose I can't really call you "petit" at the moment, can I?" She chuckled and Francis decided unconsciously that that was enough breakfast for today, "why don't I take you shopping today? You know, you're lucky, Francis, because when I was pregnant with you, not a lot of designer brands did maternity clothing."

Francis gave Arthur another weary look across the table which the alpha mirrored.

"That must have been so awful for you, maman," Francis said with a little more chill than he had intended.

His mother chuckled, evidently choosing to ignore the sarcasm, "it was," she affirmed before smiling at her son and adding, "mon petit," as she leaned over to kiss his cheek.

Francis felt himself smile.

While Francis and his mother got to go out on a shopping spree through Paris, Arthur was left all alone in a house with the most terrifying man in France. He had just finished contracting a plan that meant he was always in the same room as Hélène so that she could act as a buffer between Arthur and Francis' father as he said goodbye to Francis and Marianne.

"Au revoir," he called awkwardly from the front door.

Francis smiled back brightly, "à plus, mon coeur."

He thought he had been safe, until he felt a hand clamp down on his shoulder, the vice like grip so strong he had no hope of escape. He gulped as he heard the distinct click of a rifle and prepared for his imminent demise.

"I thought I'd take your alpha out hunting, Francis," he heard the alpha say, "you do hunt don't you, Arthur?"

Artur felt like turning around and telling the man that he wasn't a bloody Tory but his survival instinct hadn't totally abandoned him, "no sir," he squeezed, "but I suppose there's never a bad time to start."

"Good answer," he chuckled as he clapped Artur on the back, hard enough to make the alpha choke slightly.

"Be careful with him, papa," Francis warned his father.

"Yes, we want him back in one piece, Maurice," Marianne chided.

"He'll be fine," Maurice assured them but Francis and his mother gave him a weary look as they headed off towards the car.

Francis' dad led Arthur out to the back of the house. There was a large open field surrounded by woodland and Arthur might have been able to appreciate the scenic view if it hadn't been for the man holding a hunting rifle right beside him.

"Have you ever shot a firearm, Arthur?"

Arthur gulped, "can't say I have, sir."

"Enough with this 'sir' business," Maurice said as he took a step towards Arthur, "you're marrying my son, which makes you my son in law and me your father in law. Call me dad."

Arthur's eyes went wide as they flicked to the rifle in Maurice's hands and then back to Maurice, "a…are you sure?"

"Of course!" Maurice yelled jovially as he landed a friendly slap to Arthur's back that almost made the alpha topple over.

As Arthur righted himself, Maurice positioned his gun out towards the sky, "now about that, there's something I wanted to talk to you about."

Arthur broke into a cold sweat. Why did Francis have to leave him here stranded with a maniac with a gun. The man had found out that he and Francis weren't actually engaged and he was going to shoot him in the penis.

"I notice Francis isn't wearing an engagement ring."

Oh god, this was it. This was how Arthur was going to die. Alone in a field bleeding out from his literal dick. He closed his eyes and braced himself for impact.

Suddenly a loud noise burst through the silence and Arthur opened his eyes as something small and dark flew across the sky. With an intense crack, Maurice fired his gun and the little animal in the sky burst into a million pieces. Maurices turned back to Arthur and seeing his look of utter bewilderment explained, "it's a clay pigeon. Francis hates when I hunt "poor defenseless creatures" as he calls them."

He smiled at Arthur and Arthur nodded as he didn't exactly know what to say, still reeling from his possible demise.

Maurice stepped over to Arthur and spoke as he looked over the horizon, "I trust you, Arthur."

Arthur felt like he could melt with relief, "you do?"

Maurice looked at him and chuckled, "I didn't at first. I thought you were some scummy Englishman who had got my son pregnant and would abandon him at the earliest opportunity."

Arthur suddenly felt scared again, "I would never do that, I swear. I would do anything for Francis."

Maurice looked at him, Arthur felt like an insect trapped beneath a biologist's microscope.

"I know," he finally said, "I see the way you look at him. It's the way my wife looked at our gardener before our parents made us wed."

The alpha burst into a fit of laughter that Arthur mirrored nervously.

As Maurice trailed off, he looked at Arthur again sincerely, "I want to give you something."

Arthur could only guess it could be some kind of warning or threat or even blackmail and he braced himself.

"Here," he said after reaching into his breast pocket.

Arthur looked down to see him holding out a little black square box.

It didn't look like blackmail but he couldn't rule out a threat. Cautiously, he took the box.

"Keep it safe, it belonged to my grandmother," Maurice explained, "and now I'm giving it to you to give to Francis."

Slowly Arthur opened the box, his eyes growing wide in shock. He had never seen such a ginormous diamond, "I…I don't know what to say. Thank you…I…I'll give this to him."

"Make sure you choose the right moment. And don't leave it too late."

"I won't," Arthur told him. Suddenly he felt awful and slimy. He and Francis had no intention of ever marrying, he knew that's not what the omega wanted, so didn't this make me some kind of charleton? Or at least a liar. And what would Francis' father do when he found out? Right now he was too terrified to ask and so he slipped the ring into his breast pocket and smiled awkwardly at Francis' father.

"Now," he said with a grin, "let's see you have a go at shooting a rifle."

"You don't think it's too tight?"

Arthur stared, slack jawed and speechless as Francis stood in front of him, his own critical eye swooping over himself scrupulously as he ran his hands over his thighs. The dress, one his mother had bought for him while they were out, stopped just above his knees and clung tightly to his thighs. Arthur would be lying if he said he hadn't noticed the way the omega's thighs had begun to fill out ever since they found out he was pregnant. or how round and soft his features had become. Especially, he noted as the omega twisted around, his ass and his chest.

Truthfully, the dress was quite tight but Artur couldn't fault it for that as he raked his eyes hungrily over the omega's figure, watching him as he smoothed his hands over the taught black fabric that covered his stomach. Heat rushed to Arthur's cheeks while his trousers tightened around his budding excitement which only grew more unavoidable as he raked his eyes up towards Francis' face, over his soft omegan chest that was growing fuller with every day. He was both rueful and thankful that the neckline was high and stopped before his collarbone as he didn't know what he would have done, had he caught even a glimpse of the omega's bare chest.

Arthur's eyes skimmed over the omega's arms which were left uncovered under the short cap sleeves of the cocktail dress before he looked Francis in the eye and smiled, "it looks perfect."

Francis gave the alpha a sceptical look as he turned to peer at himself in his bedroom mirror. He sighed, running his hands down the curve of his thighs, "you don't think it's a bit...revealing?"

"You wear stuff like this all the time," Arthur frowned as he took a step towards the omega.

Francis sighed, frowning at his reflection, "I used to," he corrected, "but that was before this," he watched himself in the mirror as he ran his hands over his soft round ass, leading into his soft round thighs, "and this," he added as he stroked the curve of his belly before turning to Arthur and adding, "and these!" As he cupped his small omegan breasts.

Arthur pursed his lips wordlessly, unsure how else to make it clear that Francis looked fine. More than fine. He looked amazing and Arthur didn't understand why he couldn't see that.

"What if I never look the same again. What if my body never looks like it used to look and I'm stuck with all this squishy flabby disgustingness?"

It was true the omega wasn't as slender as he was before. He had basically gone from stick shaped to pear in a matter of months. Despite that, Arthur had no idea what the omega found so objectionable about himself. The alpha had meant what he said; Francis looked perfect. He always had done and he still did now.

"Francis," Arthur sighed as he took another step towards the omega, until he was almost flush with the omega's back. He looked over the omega's body respectfully before taking his hand delicately in his own and looking nervously at the ground, "I...I think…" he looked up slowly and met Francis' eyes in the mirror, "you look beautiful."

Francis' expression cracked slightly in surprise as he met Arthur's gaze before his face melted into a warm smile and he turned to face the alpha.

"You have nothing to worry about," Arthur assured him, "you're…" Arthur scoffed as his eyes quickly raked over the omega's figure before falling once more on his radiant smile, "I mean...god...Francis... you're glowing."

The omega scoffed and rolled his eyes into the carpet but the alpha caught the side of his face and held his gaze, "I mean it," he said gently before swallowing nervously, "I really do."

Francis looked at Arthur wordlessly, the alpha's assurances pulling his lips into a wordless smile. Artur hadn't realised how close they'd been standing and as a consequence how near their faces were to touching, how little it would take for their lips to brush against one another's. He could barely breathe himself as he felt an unavoidable gravitational force that was pulling him towards Francis.

The omega's lashes fluttered closed and he did the same until there came three curt pounds on the door and he suddenly remembered where he was and who he was with and…

Francis turned to the door without a word and opened it.

"Hélène," he smiled.

Arthur watched dumbly from his place beside the mirror.

"Your parents are wondering if you're ready yet."

Francis turned back to Arthur, his face quickly falling into a soft smile before turning to Hélène, "tell them we'll be right down."

Hélène nodded and smiled between them as Francis closed the door behind her and made his way over to Arthur. The alpha tensed up and closed his eyes as the omega leaned towards him. The thrumming in his chest suddenly reached a crescendo as he felt a soft brush of lips against his cheek.

He opened his eyes to see Francis smiling at him. The omega reached down to take Arthur's hand in his own, "I think we've left them waiting long enough, don't you?"

Arthur swallowed As he looked at the omega gormlessly, unable to stop the feeling of slight disappointment from creeping in.

Francis' parents took them out to dinner that night. The food was delicious, the conversation was pleasant, and it seemed like Francis' parents were finally warming up to him. Although, Arthur had a sneeking sensation that had a little something to do with the fact they were expecting the pair to get married one day. Soon. A misapprehension that Francis was feeding into quite heavily that evening.

Francis had asked Arthur to act like his fiance for the next few days and he had agreed but he hadn't imagined that Francis would be so dedicated to the little act.

It was surprising at first, how affectionate Francis was. It started with little touches, frequent and lingering and seemingly only mediated by Francis' desire to touch the alpha.

Or at least Arthur thought it was an act. That was until they got home, and Francis tugged Arthur to his bedroom following a brief goodnight to his parents, whereupon he trapped the alpha against the wall and said something incredibly disturbing.

"I want you to knot me, Arthur."

The omega was practically purring as he rubbed his hips against Arthur's while all the alpha could do was stare down at him in visible confusion.

Until it hit him, the scent, so sweet and so obvious he had no idea how he hadn't noticed it until now. Francis was in heat. Arthur came to the realisation as Francis kissed him on the neck.

Arthur didn't know if he had the strength to stop him.

"Is this really a good idea?" He managed to croak out eventually as he pulled Francis away.

The omega's dastardly smile was answer enough, "you're supposed to be my fiance, remember?" He said sweetly as he let his fingers crawl across the alpha's chest, "what would my parents say if they knew you weren't performing your husbandly duties, hmm?"

"Francis…" Arthur breathed warningly as the omega went back to sucking at his neck and grinding his hips in a way that Arthur found near impossible to resist, "is this really what you want? Or is it...the heat?"

"The heat? You think I'm that out of my mind with lust already that you can't tell that I want this. I thought you did too."

The alpha looked at Francis with furrowed brows and soft eyes. The pitying look only made Francis more frustrated.

"Look, if you don't want to do this, I'd be happy to go into town and find the first alpha who will."

A sudden tremor of hurt cut through Arthur's chest, overpowered quickly by fear at the chance Francis was telling the truth.

"That's not fair, Francis," he said sternly as he held the omega firmly by the shoulders.

Francis was quick to shake himself out of the alpha's hold, "not fair?" He repeated incredulously, "what's not fair is the fact that only a few hours ago you were telling me how pretty I was and now you turn around and get cold feet."

"It's not because of that-"

"Well what am I supposed to believe, hein?" Francis gave the alpha a sharp glare that cut straight through his chest, "was all of that just a lie? Do you really think I'm so hideous-"

"I just don't want to take advantage of you in such a vulnerable state."

Francis' eye roll made Arthur feel more than slightly annoyed.

"It's a little late for that, mon coeur," he scoffed, his words dripping with disdain.

Arthur narrowed his eyes, "what's that supposed to mean?"

"It means," Francis snapped, "it didn't stop you the first time."

"We were both drunk then, it was different."

"I'm not drunk now, connard ,I'm barely in heat," the omega yelled as he crept uncomfortably close to the alpha and poked an accusatory finger against his chest, "I'm perfectly capable of making my own decisions so do the only thing you moronic alpha's are good for and fuck me until I'm satisfied."

Arthur was red in the face and sweating, he didn't realise how fast his heart was racing until a moment of quiet gave him a chance to hear it thrumming away. He swallowed and licked his lips in relative silence as he looked at Francis. Neither of them said a word as they stared the other down.

Until Arthur Placed a hand around the back of the omega's head and pulled their lips together. Francis moaned and the alpha could feel him grinning in triumph against his lips. He pulled away and looked at the omega, brows pulled down into a bristling scowl that made Francis feel like he was about to get told off. The alpha didn't say anything, however, he just placed his hands either side of the omega's waist and guided him gently to his bed.

"Why so delicate? I'm not going to break."

The alpha only had to give him a look and the omega quickly conceded with an amused smirk, "fine," before Arthur was crawling on top of him.

Francis tugged the alpha's shirt from his pants as they kissed before he fumbled blindly at Arthur's buttons. The alpha broke apart from their kiss and tugged off his shirt to save Francis the effort.

Francis smiled up at him and it made the alpha's stern expression soften slightly.

"Take off your dress."

The omega stiffened slightly, a light blush dusting his cheeks at the realisation that this would be the first time Arthur saw him naked for quite some time. He was a lot softer and thicker now and a small niggling part of his mind worried that the alpha might not find him desirable anymore.

That was until the alpha threw his shirt onto the floor and the little voice in Francis's Head shut up at the sight of the alpha's broad chest.

Francis took a shaky breath in as he turned around and kneeled in front of Artur. He lifted his hair out of the way, "get the zip for me."

Artur did so, before running his hands across Francis' bare back as he tugged the dress down. He kissed the back of Francis' neck and heard the omega release a shuddered breath. He pushed the omegas straps off his shoulders and began to tug the dress off, stopping abruptly at the omega's quiet, "wait."

"What is it?"

Francis took a breath as he turned around to face Arthur slowly. He was blushing and averted his gaze, "did you really mean what you said before?"

"About what?" Arthur frowned slightly as he leaned down to try and meet Francis' gaze.

Francis looked at Arthur, "you said I was beautiful."

Arthur was a little taken aback by the response and in his fuddle of what to say he could only give Francis a bewildered stutter in response.

"Of course you don't," Francis said, his stare mournful as he got up from the bed, "how could you?"

"Francis," Artur said as he urgently followed the omega off the bed, reaching for his arm, "of course I do."

Francis looked at him sceptically, "but I'm all soft now."

The alpha chuckled slightly as he tugged Francis near, "you say that like it's a bad thing," he said as he dug his hands into the supple flesh of the omegas ass.

Francis blushed.

"Of course you're beautiful," Artur told him, he was so close to the omega, his scent was making him almost lightheaded, "and I'll keep telling you that as much as I have to."

All that could be heard was a soft gasp before Francis leaned forward and pressed his lips against the alpha's. Arthur reached for the omegas dress to quickly finish the job. He pulled it off the omegas shoulders again and down his arms as he continued to kiss him until he heard it drop against the ground.

He felt the omegas breath against his neck as Francis wrapped his arms around the alpha's neck and held him close. He let his hands hover over the omegas hips before gently caressing his skin, following the curve around to his back as he held Francis close.

Francis' grip tighten as he lifted the omega up and carried him to his bed where he gently let him down. He got up slowly, looking at Francis as he lay on the bed waiting for him.

He really was beautiful.

The alpha let his eyes rake over the omegas body, from his slender legs to his thick thighs and his round belly. Something primal washed over him at the sight of Francis like this, demure and exposed. He reached down and placed a hand over the side of the omega's stomach. He put those babies there. The thought made this cock harden.

Artuyr knew the omega was self conscious but he genuinely didn't understand why. Arthur found him just as beautiful as the day they'd met.

He unbuckled his belt before tugging his pants off and crawling on top of Francis.

"I mean it," he breathed as he raised his hand to the omegas face, "you really are gorgeous, Francis."

The kiss Francis pulled him into was messy and desperate and he realised a startled gasp before he settled into it and began to run his hand down the omegas chest where he cupped one of his small breasts and tugged at his nipple. Francis moaned into his mouth, something soft and startled.

The alpha slid his penis against the omega's entrance and gasped hotly to feel it coated in slick.

"You're so wet," Arthur remarked as he teased Francis' entrance, "you want me to take care of you?"

Francis nodded demurely up at Arthur as the alpha softly gyrated his hips against the omega's entrance.

"You want me to fuck you?"

"Yes."

"Hard?"

"Yes."

Arthur slid a hand against francis' cheek softly, "you want me to knot you?"

Francis nodded, pleading, "yes."

He smiled down at Francis as he grabbed hold of the omega's legs and gently lifted them as he positioned himself against his entrance. He looked down at Francis, his blushing red face and his hazy smile.

"You really are beautiful, Francis."

Francis bit his lip before pulling Arthur into a deep, hungry, passionate kiss. Arthur held Francis close as they kissed.

Arthur slid inside the omega and Francis moaned, deep and long and hungry against the alpha's mouth.

“Arthur…” he sighed, “I missed you.”

“God, I missed you too,” Arthur gasped.

He missed fucking Francis. He missed the way it felt inside Francis, he missed the way Francis looked when he fucked him hard - hair a tousled mess, cheeks red as his pretty face contorted in pleasure - but most of all, he missed the intimacy. He looked to be close to Francis. It killed him, seeing the omega almost every day and not being able to show affection the way he wanted, to hug and kiss him freely, to mark and scent him as his own.

But Francis wasn't his, and didn't want to be.

Arthur grunted, he was making himself sad and right now he had no time to be sad, he was supposed to be making Francis feel good. He looked down at the omega who had his eyes shut tight as he moaned softly. Arthur smiled as he fucked him harder.

The omega screamed out in pleasure and Arthur bit his lip as he watched him rithe on the bed beneath him.

"Arthur…" Francis moaned, his voice loud and needy.

Arthur raked his eyes across the omega's body and felt his cock harden inside him. He lifted a hand to press against the side of his belly and gently stroked it.

"Francis," he gasped.

Francis moaned.

"I love you."

With a long breathy gasp, Francis came, throwing his head back and moaning. Feeling his cock twitch restlessly, Arthur came too, his knot expanding inside the omega. Breathlessly he looked over to smile at the omega who was looking at him with wide eyes and only then did he realise what he had just said. Bollocks.

Francis had his head on Arthur's shoulder, as the alpha lay beside him waiting for his knot to deflate.

"Did you mean what you said, Arthur?"

Arthur felt his heartrate quicken, "when?"

"When you said you loved me," Francis said as he looked at Arthur, his voice was soft and innocent and his eyes were round and curious.

The alpha let out a nervous chuckle s he avoided Francis' gaze, "why on eart would I say that?"

"I don't know," Francis told him, "that's why I'm asking."

"Right," Arthur chuckled, "well…I just…didn't mean that I loved you. I just meant…I loved the sex. You know."

"Oh…okay," Francis didn't say anything else and then as soon as Arthur's knot deflated, he turned away from the alpha and went to sleep.

Chapter Text

It had taken a lot of convincing but when Francis finally agreed to move in, Arthur imagined the arrangement would make his life so much easier. He imagined he would come home to a tidy house as he knew Francis liked to keep things organised, especially in his kitchen. He imagined he wouldn’t have to replace the milk every time it ran out now that he had someone to share the responsibility. He also imagined he’d be waking up every so often to the smell of a freshly prepared breakfast, although that was a bit of a stretch considering how difficult it was to get Francis out of bed before noon.

Instead, he came home every so often to a messy, disordered flat because Francis was in 'far too delicate a state to clean!'. Worse than having to buy new milk himself, he would open the fridge to find that Francis had finished off a carton and, instead of replacing it, just put the empty bottle back in the fridge.

However the most troublesome disillusionment of all was staring at Arthur in skin tight yoga pants as he walked through the door.

Their doctor had recommended that Francis try out ‘kegel exercises’ as it would help strengthen his pelvic floor. Arthur assumed this meant that Francis would visit the gym once or twice a week but what it actually led to was the purchase of a yoga mat and new athleasureware that clung to Francis’ figure in the most boner inducing way.

“Do you have to do that here?” Arthur scowled as he desperately resisted the urge to cover his nose and mouth. Francis' scent was everywhere and he couldn't breathe without getting a mouthful of it.

Francis looked at him through his legs which were spread far apart, hoisting his tight round ass in the air.

“Hello, Arthur. It is nice to see you too,” he snapped, without getting up or moving from his position, “your bedroom is too small and I am not doing it in the kitchen.”

Arthur continued to scowl without saying a word. It was slightly annoying to realise he had called it 'your bedroom' despite the fact that Francis had been the one sleeping in it for over a month now while Arthur slept on the sofa.

Finally when Francis was finished with his stretching, he pushed himself up with a groan and looked at Arthur pointedly as he placed his hands on his hips to support his weight as he stretched his back out with a groan.

Arthur looked back at him and felt his cheeks heat up. He was wearing skintight leggings and a sports bra, so suffice it to say that the ensemble didn’t leave much to the imagination. It clung to his curves, spreading out over his thick, supple thighs. Arthur wanted nothing more than to go over there and rip the bloody things off him and sink his teeth into the omega. But he wouldn’t. Francis was almost 7 months pregnant and ,despite what people always assumed, they weren’t mates. He couldn’t exactly jump him. Despite how much he might want to.

Everyday was torture, looking at Francis, watching him and not being able to touch him, to caress him. He looked at Francis' belly and felt something possessive burn inside of him. He was the one who put those babies there, he should be beside Francis not just as a friend but as his mate. His alpha.

He shook the thought away. Francis wasn’t his and he never wanted to be.

“Do you have a problem?” the omega asked indignantly, standing his ground.

“Of course not,” Arthur said with a scowl. He blushed hard as he looked at Francis and realised he couldn't stand there any longer. He rushed out of the room, quickly offering up a flimsy excuse, “I’m going to take a shower.”

Arthur stood under the water, he had taken a shower that morning; he didn’t need one now. What he did need was a liquid sound barrier to protect him from being overheard. He leaned against the wall as he tugged desperately at his cock. As soon as he stepped foot through the front door and layed eyes on Francis in that skin tight outfit, he'd gotten a painful boner. Now it was all he could think about as he stroked himself. He thought about going back out there and grabbing Francis by the arms and kissing him deeply. He thought about trailing his hands all over his skin, down his back, over his fat ass that had only gotten fatter as the pregnancy progressed. He thought about Francis, heavy with his pups and it filled him with something Intense and primal. He thought about touching him, caressing him, looking down on him from above as he fucked him.

He came in his hand with a sharp gasp before falling against the wall. He stood for a moment to catch his breath, feeling disgusted at himself. Cleaning himself didn't help alleviate the feeling and he stepped out of the shower unable to look at himself in the foggy mirror.

He wrapped his towel around his waist before stepping out into his bedroom. He looked through his wardrobe first and then his dressers in search of anything in the way of a t-shirt and comfortable trousers but all he could find were francis' clothes or the stuffy dress shirts and trousers he wore to work. Even his jumpers were scarce. He didn't think he'd been going through clothes this quickly. He went to the laundry basket, figuring dirty clothes were better than nothing but he was flabbergasted to find that empty as well.

He closed the lid on the hamper and stood back up as he looked around the room in confusion. That was when he noticed the odd shape of the duvet on the bed - it seemed lumpier than usual, as if someone was curled up underneath it. It was still early in the afternoon and he wouldn't have put it past Francis to still be in bed if he hadn't just seen the man exercising in the living room.

Still, it wasn't entirely unfathomable that he had stopped exercising to take a nap.

"Francis?" Arthur called tentatively as he slowly stepped forward to lift up the covers. When he pulled it back, he didn't find Francis but what he did find caused him to let out a brief exclamation..

Francis came rushing in at the sound of Arthur's, "oh my god!"

"Arthur…" Francis said in a quiet, pleading voice as he watched Arthur stare at the pile of clothes in the centre of his bed.

"So that's where my shirts went," he said as he let out a short chuckle. Francis had made a nest. People had warned them this would probably happen but Arthur had imagined it would be more pillows and blankets and not his entire wardrobe. He gripped the edge of the towel that sat around his waist and made sure it wasn't liable to fall as he turned to give Francis an exasperated half smile.

The omega bit his lip and rested a hand on top of his stomach and one on his back as he looked from Arthur to the giant nest in his bed, "I'm sorry," he offered as he took a step towards Arthur, "I was going to wash them before you got home but then when I thought about not...having the nest...I got sad…"

Arthur couldn't be angry. Annoyingly, he could never be angry at Francis anymore.

"I'm not angry," he told the guilty looking omega, "I'm just a little surprised is all."

"Surprised?" Francis frowned, "the doctor said it was normal for a pregnant omega to nest…"

"No," Arthur corrected with a soft, amused smile, "well yes but I'm just surprised because...well...because you like my scent."

Francis' frown deepened, "why would that be surprising? I am carrying your children after all," he said as both hands came up to hold his stomach protectively.

Arthur gazed at Francis as the omega cupped his belly and suddenly he felt hot and bothered as his mind wandered back to his time in the shower and he felt a blush creep up his neck. He looked away quickly towards the bed, "yes," he said hurriedly, "I suppose that is...that's a fair point."

Wanting to change the subject, he bent down to reach for the first pair of pants he could find which happened to be plaid pyjama bottoms, "is it alright if I take something to wear?"

"They are your clothes," Francis shrugged, moving his hands back round to his back where he could best support his girth.

"Right," Arthur said as he awkwardly turned around to swap his towel for the pyjama bottoms before reaching over to quickly grab a shirt. He threw it over his head in a rush, startling himself with the thickness of Francis' scent clinging to the material.

"Oh god," he whispered in shock as the sweetness of the scent hit him and he felt his cock harden again.

"What's wrong?" Francis asked with concern.

"Nothing," Arthur told him quickly as he pulled the shirt over his head, "it just...smells like you."

Francis' frown went from concerned to indignant, "is that a bad thing?"

Arthur could feel his heart rate quicken, "no no no no no," Arthur tried to smile reassuringly, "I just wasn't expecting it, that's all."

Francis was almost glaring at Arthur now, "well then you are an idiot because I have been sleeping with these all morning."

The thought of Francis sleeping in a pile of his clothes, being comforted by his scent, made his chest feel warm and he found himself smiling like an idiot as a soft giddy chuckle left his mouth. At that moment he looked up to see Francis looking furious enough to cry.

"What?" Arthur said gormlessly.

Francis only gave him an indignant groan before storming out of the bedroom in an angry waddle.

"Francis?" Arthur called in complete astonishment, "Francis, wait!"

Francis didn't wait. He stormed into the kitchen, Arthur quickly and nervously following behind.

“What’s wrong now?” Arthur asked, trying to sound as patient as possible.

“Nothing,” Francis said pointedly, not looking at Arthur as he lifted various things from one of the cupboards.

Arthur sighed, “I know you’re lying; I can smell that you’re upset.”

“I didn’t think you could stomach the stench of me.”

Arthur rolled his eyes, unable to stop the exasperated groan, “you think I don’t like your scent? That’s why you’re upset?"

Francis didn’t say anything but Arthur could tell from the slump of his shoulders and the dip in his scent as he stopped reaching for different ingredients that he was clearly distressed.

The alpha sighed and shook his head, “you’re ridiculous-"

"It's not just that," he interrupted as he quickly turned around, revealing the glistening tears that threatened to spill down his cheeks. Arthur's chest tightened, "before...when you came in and you looked at me…" if it was possible his expression seemed to fall even further, "like I was disgusting. You couldn't get out of there quick enough. And it's not just back there, you've been really weird recently. You can't even look at me wihout running off. I know I'm not at my best right now but if you could hide your disgust a little better."

Arthur groaned as his face fell into his hand and he massaged between his eyes. He could keep on trying to reassure Francis but he knew what would definitely convince him.

"I was having a wank," he admitted quietly. He couldn't raise his voice or look up to meet Francis' eyes so he kept his eyes shut and kept his face in his hand.

Francis glared at Arthur, "quoi?"

Arthur was quiet as he raised his head to look at Francis, pursing his lips and scowling desperately, "I was having a wank," he repeated with a sigh.

Francis only looked at him in irritated confusion and so Arthur trudged on, "before, when I came home," he explained with a sigh, "and you were…" he trailed off and gestured towards Francis' outfit. Francis looked down at himself and blushed, glaring at Arthur, "it was those bloody trousers, Francis!" Arthur exclaimed suddenly, now red in the face and completely mortified, "and your fucking arse! I mean, why do those trousers need to be so ludicrously tight? You have no idea what it does to me. I nearly went into fucking rut for Christ's sake," he continued, his gaze slowly fell towards the floor as he ran a hand desperately through his hair, "and your scent, oh bloody hell, Francis. You can't just smother my clothes in it and expect me to act normal. I mean...even a whiff is enough to get me hard-"

Arthur hadn't seen Francis glide across the kitchen floor towards him and so he was completely taken off guard when the French omega grabbed him by the shirt and pressed their lips together. Arthur found his arms wrapping around Francis automatically as he pulled him into a tight embrace. Their bodies weren't exactly flush against one another as Francis' stomach made that quite difficult but Arthur pulled him as close as he could, his hands pressed against the small of Francis' back protectively.

"Arthur," Francis whispered as they pulled apart, "I want you to fuck me."

Arthur pushed them towards the sofa in the living room wordlessly and gently guided the omega down, his hand clasped protectively against the small of his back as he kissed him. Francis moaned against the alpha's lips as he tugged on his shirt collar and blindly pulled apart his buttons to reveal his bare chest. Arthur tugged the shirt off his shoulders before throwing it across the room blindly, unable to break his mouth apart from Francis'.

The omega grasped at the alpha's pants until Arthur took over and yanked them off. He pressed Francis back into the sofa cushions as he kissed him, letting his hand roam freely across the curve of his stomach. Francis moaned against his mouth as Arthur brushed his hand upwards and cupped the omega's chest through his sports bra.

Francis' moan turned slightly pained.

"What's wrong?" Arthur asked.

"Nothing, it's just…ng…my chest is a little tender at the moment."

Arthur hummed in understanding and frowned in thought.

"Can I try something?" He asked eventually.

Francis looked at him, a little skeptical, before agreeing, "okay."

Arthur lifted the top over Francis' head to reveal his chest. Male omega's bodies were known to change dramatically during pregnancy and one of the more noticeable ways in which they changed was in the chest. Arthur looked down at Francis' and swallowed hungrily as his mouth filled with saliva.

The omega's chest was bigger than before. His small omegan breasts, Arthur was sure, had almost tripled in size and when he reached up to hold one, he could barely contain it in the palm of his hand.

"Do you know when omega's are supposed to start producing milk?" Arthur asked as he stared at Francis' breast hungrily.

The omega blushed as he looked at Arthur, watching the alpha as he played with his tits, "I have no idea."

Arthur looked at Francis, "may I?"

The omega stared up at the alpha through his lashes, "you don't have to ask, mon cheri."

Arthur leaned down and placed his lips around the omega's hard nipple. Francis moaned as Arthur started to suck on it. It was painful, but it felt oddly nice.

The omega placed his arms around Arthur's neck and clung tight as he moaned.

"Arthur…" he gasped as the alpha released the nipple from his mouth and breathlessly looked up at Francis. A line of white glimmering liquid trickled down the alpha's chin and he licked his lips.

Francis was gasping, he smiled open mouthed at Arthur and leant forward to press his lips against the alpha's hungrily.

"Francis…" Arthur sighed against the omega's lips.

Francis still had his arms wrapped around the alpha's neck as he looked at Arthur, their foreheads pressed together as they smiled breathlessly at one another. Francis could feel the slick pooling between his thighs and the heat rising in his belly as he looked at the alpha. He could also feel the relief in the right side of his chest where Arthur had relieved him of the heavy weight he had been carrying.

"Now the other one," he whispered.

Arthur's brows raised minutely and his smile grew with excitement as he looked at Francis and wordlessly leant down again to suck on the other. Francis moaned, crying out in ecstacy.

"Arthur," the alpha's name slipped from his mouth in a purr as he cupped the back of the alpha's head, gently guiding it.

"I need your knot too," he begged softly.

The alpha looked up at Francis and softly removed his lips from around Francis' nipple with a quiet pop.

"Someone's needy today," the alpha chided teasingly.

"S'il te plait, Arthur," Francis begged.

Arthur looked at him and smiled, it was a sweet warm smile. He raised a hand to Francis' large, round belly and caressed the skin gently. Francis was blushing but the smile he gave Arthur was inviting. The omega raised a hand on top of Arthur's. The alpha leaned down to place a soft kiss to his belly and then forward to kiss the omega on the lips, it was swift and chaste but the omega was hungry and pulled Arthur close.

"I need you," he whispered into Arthur's ear, "my alpha."

Arthur growled against Francis' cheek, his hands acting before his mind could stop them as he ripped the omega's leggings apart and threw the scraps onto the floor.

"Arthur!" Francis yelled half in amazement and annoyance.

"Shit, I'll buy you some new ones," he said absentmindedly as he nestled his face against Francis' neck where he could nip and lick at the delicate skin and soak up his scent.

"You're an animal," Francis remarked breathlessly.

"I can barely control myself around you," Arthur growled.

Francis lifted a hand to cup the back of the alpha's head as he let his own fall to the side in order to expose his delicate flesh, "don't hold back, mon cheri."

Arthur leaned back to look at Francis, a hand fixed delicately against the side of his face, "at all?"

"I'm yours," the omega told him in response, "do with me what you like."

"Don't tempt me, Francis," Arthur groaned, "Jesus Christ…"

"Arthur…" Francis purred, "I need you…"

"God," Arthur let out another groan as he gazed down at Francis, at the omega's pretty face, his flushed cheeks, his pink lips, parted as they called Arthur's name, begging for him, "Francis…"

"Arthur…s'il te plait," Francis whispered against the alpha's cheek as he wrapped his legs round the alpha's waist and pulled their hips together. His arms were wrapped around the alpha's neck, pulling him against his body.

A growl rumbled through the alpha's chest and Francis' stomach flipped in arousal. Arthur slid his hand from the side of his face down to his chest and then to his stomach where he paused to caress the omega's taught skin. He ran a hand across the side of his bump as he kissed Francis on the lips.

The omega leaned into the kiss passionately, moaning Arthur's name against his lips.

Then Arthur pulled away and the omega whimpered needily. Arthur couldn't help but release a small chuckle and Francis pouted at him.

Wordlessly, Arthur lowered himself until he was kneeling on the floor in front of francis. The omega looked down at him, peering over his protruding middle. He was red faced and breathless and he looked at Arthur with hungry, lust-filled eyes. He gripped Francis by the thighs, fingers digging into the soft flesh. He couldn't help admiring how thick they'd grown, how wide Francis' hips now were, and how soft and subtle he'd become all over.

"Jesus…" Arthur moaned, "fuck…"

The alpha pushed Francis' thighs apart slowly until his legs were open wide, inviting Arthur in. His tiny omegan cock stood erect between his legs, leaking precum. His thighs were glistening with slick, the scent alone driving Arthur insane.

"You're so beautiful," he sighed as he let his eyes rove from Francis' cock, over his body and up to his blushing face.

"Arthur…"

"I can't wait to fuck you."

Francis released a soft, needy gasp that made Arthur's cock twitch.

"Fuck me," Francis begged.

Arthur smirked, "not yet."

Francis moaned in agony, grinding his hips against the sofa cushion in desperation, "Arthur, s'il te plait…"

"So needy," the alpha teased.

"Arthur, please!"

Arthur felt himself gripping Francis' thighs harder, squeezing the flesh as if it were his lifeline. He watched Francis as he screwed his eyes shut, his head tipping back dramatically as Arthur pushed his legs up and further apart until his dripping hole was fully on display.

"Are you comfortable, love?"

Francis nodded his head frantically as he stared at Arthur hazily.

That was all the go ahead Arthur needed. He leaned forward and dipped his tongue into Francis' leaking hole. Francis let out a desperate, breathy sigh.

"Arthur…ah…" he moaned and Arthur gripped his thighs tighter.

Francis' head fell back against the sofa and he gasped. He had been dreaming about this moment since Christmas. Dreaming about Arthur, his delicate fingers, his skilled tongue. He had been yearning for the alpha's touch these past few months, and in that moment, he was convinced he would never be able to live without it.

"Arthur…" he repeated the name as if it were a prayer, "I need you…"

Francis spread his legs further apart hungrily for Arthur as he moaned the alpha's name. Francis reached down limply to stroke Arthur's head and in turn the alpha reached up to connect their hands. Francis held on tightly as if it were a lifeline.

He thought about Arthur, about their relationship and the life they were starting together. It was scary and he was terrified but he was also excited as he couldn't think about doing it with anyone else. Arthur was his alpha and he was Arthur's omega and they belonged together.

A high pitched moan was torn from his throat, his head flew back against the sofa and his entire body convulsed as he came, shooting a stream of cum against the underside of his belly.

He lay limp, catching his breath as Arthur climbed up beside him and began kissing his neck.

"Arthur…" Francis sighed.

"God, you smell so good," Arthur groaned against his skin.

Francis moaned softly.

"I'm going to fuck you so hard," Arthur said in a low growl, "god, I've been dreaming about this."

"Me too," Francis sighed as he placed a hand against the alpha's cheek, "I missed you, Arthur."

Arthur placed his hand over Francis' and smiled softly at the omega, "I missed you too."

Francis' arms snaked around Arthur's neck and he pulled the alpha into a close embrace and kissed him on the mouth, parting his lips in eager invitation. He held onto Arthur tightly as the alpha slid his hands to rest at Francis' waist. He pulled their hips together until he lined up with Francis perfectly.

"I need you, Arthur," Francis whispered and Arthur couldn't hold back any longer. He dug his fingers into Francis' supple hips as he kissed him roughly. Francis released a long moan as Arthur slid his cock inside the omega.

"You feel so fucking good," Arthur sighed.

Francis let out a soft high pitched grunt as Arthur thrusted into him. He was so gentle, so soft and so slow but he filled Francis up and all he could do was groan in satisfaction.

He kissed the omega again, softly this time, as he held onto his thigh with one hand and caressed his cheek with the other.

As he pulled out of the kiss, he looked at the omega and smiled warmly, "you're so fuckin beautiful, Francis."

Francis blushed, "Arthur…" he whispered.

The pair smiled at each other warmly before Francis tightened his grip around the alpha's neck and pulled him close, "I need you," Francis whispered.

"I'm here," Arthur assured him in a whisper, the words tickling against Francis' neck softly.

Francis moaned and gasped desperately with each of Arthur's thrusts, gripping onto Arthur like a limit. Arthur took a deep breath in against the smooth, delicate skin of his neck and Francis shuddered at the feeling. The omega let his head stretch slowly to the side, exposing his scent gland for the alpha who sucked on the delicate skin.

Francis felt Arthur's canines scrape gently across his flesh and he released a gasp of arousal. His grip around Arthur's neck tightened and he pulled them closer as he whispered, "I need you," once more.

Arthur came with a grunt, releasing his cum inside the omega. Francis moaned as he felt Arthur's knot inflate inside of him. His moan morphed into a cry of pleasure as Arthur's teeth sunk into his flesh and his eyes rolled to the back of his head in ecstasy as he came against Arthur's stomach.

Arthur stood in the doorway to their bathroom, watching Francis as he lay in the bath. He was surrounded by bubbles, and an overwhelming scent of lavender. Arthur watched the omega as he stroked his stomach gently. Arthur wanted to be next to him, but he still felt like he was overstepping his bounds.

"Are you going to come in, or did you just come to ogle?" Francis teased lightly.

Arthur felt himself blush. He considered turning away awkwardly before he decided to come in and kneel beside the bathtub.

Francis smiled at him and suddenly he felt relaxed. He smiled back.

"How are you feeling?" The alpha asked as he leaned over the bath to place a hand over his stomach, softly caressing the wet skin with his thumb.

"My chest feels a lot lighter," Francis smiled.

The alpha looked away, blushing slightly. Francis watched him, smiling intently, Arthur was so cute when blushed, although the alpha wouldn't appreciate the thought.

The omega felt content, for the first time in a long time, he felt at home with his alpha next I him and his babies in his belly. He turned his attention back to them, running a hand over his stomach. He couldn't help the smile on his face.

"I suppose we should talk about what happened," came Arthur's voice.

Francis smiled absentmindedly as he continued to run his hands comfortingly up and down his belly.

"Oui, I supposed we should," he said with a smile, his gaze lowered.

"I'm so sorry, Francis."

Arthur's words were like a punch to the gut. His hands stopped in their tracks and the omega felt his breath hitch. Sorry? Why was he sorry? As far as Francis was concerned, the alpha had nothing to be sorry for. Francis didn't regret his decision to let Arthur claim him but maybe the alpha did.

Caughtiously, he turned to face Arthur who was staring forlornly into his lap. He could see the look of despair in his eyes and his skin was white as a sheet. Regret.

Francis swallowed, "sorry?"

"I should never have let that happen," the alpha said quietly before he looked up and frowned sorrowfully at Francis, "I'm so so sorry, Francis. I promise I'll never lose control like that ever again."

"Oh…"

The word fell from Francis' lips limply. His eyes fell away from Arthur's and down to the dome of his belly as it peeked out of the water.

Of course Arthur was sorry that he claimed Francis. He had already been trapped by this pregnancy, now it was like Francis had imprisoned him. It was only natural that Arthur didn't want to be tied down, and if Francis dug his nails in now, the alpha would be clawing to get away from him.

None of that mattered though. What mattered was that Francis needed Arthur and if he wasn't going to be there as Francis' alpha then he would have to do as just his friend.

"It's fine," Francis forced himself to say, "I was practically begging for it."

"That's no excuse," Arthur sounded almost desperate, "what I did can't be taken back."

Francis winced. He felt sick and his throat tightened, "I said it's fine!"

He looked at Arthur, the alpha was white as a sheet. He looked shocked and slightly worried but worst of all was the pity in his eyes.

The silence sat heavily between them. Francis couldn't stomach look at the alpha, so instead he stared pointedly into the water.

"It's too hot in here," he finally said, "I need to get out."

He pushed himself out of the bathtub and Arthur was quick to reach his hands out and steady the omega.

"Let me help."

Francis pulled his hands away and steadied himself on the towel rack before placing a hand protectively over his stomach.

"No," he snapped before composing himself slightly, "I'm fine," he told the alpha as he wrapped a towel around himself, "excuse me."

And then he left, leaving Arthur to stand awkwardly by the rapidly draining bath and wonder what the hell just happened.

Chapter Text

Arthur had barely been at his desk all morning. Instead, he had been leaning over the desk of their new co worker. From his own desk, Francis had a clear view of their little rendezvous. Toris was new and therefore it was only natural that he would be having a little difficulty learning a new software, and Arthur was one of the top salesmen (after Francis) so the omega wasn't surprised that Toris had asked for his help.

Although, he'd be lying if he said the proximity wasn't bothering him. Did Arthur have to lean so close to the omega's shoulder? Did Toris have to brush his cheek against Arthur's chest?

Francis had to force himself look away before his imagination ran away with him. He stared at his computer, determined not to pay attention to what lay beyond.

His neck itched underneath his turtleneck and gently he pressed a hand to where Arthur’s bite mark was etched into his skin. He tried not to think about its existence.

By the time lunch came around, Arthur still hadn't taken his place back at his desk beside Francis, so the omega swallowed his pride and made his way towards Toris' desk. The omega gave Francis an unreadable smile, which he returned cautiously. When Arthur noticed him, he gave Francis a warm look that helped ward off any sinister feelings of insecurity he might have had, if only for a moment.

"Francis," he said, pleasantly surprised by the omega's sudden company.

"I was going to get some lunch," Francis explained as he placed a protective hand over his bump, nervously glancing between Arthur and Toris, "are you coming?"

"Shit! It's lunch already?" Arthur was checking his watch while a hand tugged frantically at his hair, "I didn't get any work done this morning, I'll have to grab something from the vending machine and have it at my desk."

“I think I’ll join you,” Toris smiled, “sorry for taking up so much of your time, maybe I can buy you lunch? Or a coffee?”

“Oh, thanks.”

Francis' brows furrowed in concern as he watched the pair smile at each other. The prospect of having lunch at his desk, and from a vending machine no less, was deplorable but the thought of Arthur and Toris spending any more time alone was even more unpleasant, "I'll stay too."

"No, no," Arthur was quick to argue. He stood up and rounded the corner of the table until he was at Francis’ side when a protective hand flew up to his arm, "you need to have a proper meal."

Francis pursed his lips in displeasure. He felt himself frowning at Arthur despite the alpha’s innocence. He wanted to argue that one meal from a vending machine wasn’t going to kill him but before the thought could leave his lips, a pan of hunger hit him and he realised how silly he was being.

It was one meal, one half an hour lunch break. What’s the worst that could happen? They start fucking over the break room lunch table? Please, Toris was good but he wasn’t that good.

“Alors…” Francis conceded, “I'll have lunch with Gil and Toni."

"Okay," Arthur smiled, "I'll see you later."

Francis ran a hand down the curve of his stomach, his other supporting his back as he looked between Arthur and Toris with a scrutinising gaze nonetheless before shooting them both with a blithe smile as he left with Gil and Toni.

"Arthur's taking lunch at his desk? He hasn't done that for months," Toni sounded incredulous.

"Not since Francis started dragging him to this café everyday, anyway," Gil agreed.

"He said he hadn't got any work done," Francis told them as he picked at his sandwich.

"I'm not surprised; he was practically glued to the new guy's desk," Gil snorted.

"He was helping him with the program we use," Francis explained.

"Oh yeah," Gil snorted dirisively.

"What?" Francis snapped. He had a feeling he knew the source of Gil's incredulity, but still he needed confirmation. He pinned his friend with a challenging glare, daring him to speak his mind whilst simultaneously reeling with the dread of having this morning's suspicions confirmed.

"Does he fuck need help with the program we use."

Francis' frown deepened, his heart began to ache. Still, perhaps there was a chance that Gil was mistaken, "how do you know he doesn't?"

"I saw him yesterday," Gil explained, "he knew exactly how to use the program, only seemed to be having a problem with it when Arthur was around."

"What are you saying?" Francis narrowed his eyes at Gil, a sinking feeling in his gut. He needed it spelled out for him or else he wouldn't believe.

"He was totally flirting with Arthur."

The sinking feeling morphed into something deeply sinister, "with Arthur?" Francis tried to mask his worry with disbelief.

"I think Art was enjoying it," Toni chimed in.

Suddenly Francis felt as if he were being bombarded from all areas, "he's not…he's not interested in dating anyone at the minute."

"You sure?" Gil raised an eyebrow at his friend.

Francis looked at the pair. He felt nervous, uncharacteristically unsure of himself and of his relationship with Arthur (if there even was one at all). Even if Arthur seemed to regret it afterwards, Francis still thought that when the alpha claimed him, it had meant something to both of them. Or rather, he had been filling himself into believing that Arthur felt something deeper for him.

Francis didn't want to admit it, but he needed Arthur. Even if he could only keep the alpha as a friend and not a lover, he needed him by his side and if Arthur started dating someone else, would there be enough room by his side for Francis?

The omega wrapped his arms around his chest protectively, "regardless, I don't care," the reassurance was to convince his friends just as much as himself, "it's none of my business who he wastes his time flirting with."

The quiver in his voice must have been more obvious than he thought, for his friends looked at him with pity and concern. He glared at both of them. They had been more than happy to gossip idly about the father of his children a second ago without a thought to Francis' feelings, he didn't need their exaggerated looks of anguish now.

"This sandwich tastes awful. I'm going back to the office," he announced before storming off and throwing the rest of his food in the bin.

At his desk, Francis couldn't seem to catch a break either. It didn't take long for Toris to drag Artur away from his side with another dire issue that only he could solve. Francis might have been able to ignore it if Toris' desk wasn't in direct line of sight to his own.

No matter how much he tried to ignore it, the seed of doubt that Gil had planted in his brain kept growing. What if his friend was right? What if Toris was just exaggerating his incompetence for Arthur's attention? Surely the alpha could not be so gullible? Or perhaps he could, and Francis had something more serious to worry about.

Francis tried his best to focus on his work but it was hard when they were putting on such a show for him. As he watched Toris' little charade, something about it felt awfully familiar. The way he acted so clueless, biting his lip, tucking his short brown hair behind his ears.

And then something all too familiar happened that made Francis' stomach turn. Something that made his chest ache in recognition. Toris reached up and wrapped his hands around Arthur's bicep.

Francis watched with bated breath as Arthur's face turned red and his eyes widened. The alpha didn't acknowledge Toris' ploy but he didn't put an end to it either.

It was all Francis could bear to look at before rage began to bubble up to the surface. He pushed himself up, his movements a little clumsy and inelegant, and made his way to the break room to grab a coffee.

Except when he opened the small red tin, he was thoroughly disappointed to find they were out of decaf. He let out a frustrated grunt, before throwing the lid back onto the tin with a sharp clink.

Usually when he was this tense, smoking through a pack of cigarettes helped to calm him down. But since that was definitely off the table, he supposed he would settle for some fresh air.

The balcony was off limits; he couldn't go somewhere with such a clear view of the office. No, he needed to get as far away from the prying eyes of his co-workers as possible just in case he started doing something utterly, deplorably embarrassing like crying.

Even if it was 3 flights of steps down and Francis was at the point in his pregnancy where getting down even one flight was getting difficult, he headed to the car park on the street below. Shivering, he realised he should have brought a coat.

He wrapped his arms around himself and felt his mind slipping into the sinister thoughts that he had come out here to avoid. His thoughts dragged him to Arthur, to the burning mark etched into the side of his throat, and to the inescapable pit of emptiness he found himself in without him.

He closed his eyes and leaned back against the wall. He tried to push all thought of the alpha from his mind but it was hard when there was a burning reminder of the alpha literally etched into his skin.

He wished he could scrub it away, destroy every trace of the alpha from his life. He wished he could but…did he really want to?

Of course he didn't. No matter how much trouble he was worth, Francis would sorely miss the alpha's presence from his life.

If he closed his eyes, he could still feel what it was like on that night as Arthur held Francis in his arms and let his teeth sink into his neck. The omega shuddered. He had felt so safe in Arthur's arms and now he felt stupid for letting himself be so vulnerable.

With Arthur's arms wrapped around, the rest of the world had seemed so far away but now he had no idea whether there was still a place in Arthur's arms for him…or if someone else had taken his place now.

It was hard not to think about them together, hard not to imagine Arthur with his arms wrapped around Toris, giving the omega the attention that Francis craved. He hated that he wanted it. Hated that he felt a visceral, unquenchable need for the alpha. He wished he could sever their connection.

Maybe he could…his emotions were all due to his hormones and his hormones were all in his head. If he could ignore them, maybe he wouldn't need Arthur anymore.

With a sense of determination, Francis made his way back to his desk, his determination quickly fizzling out to find that Arthur had not yet taken his usual place beside him. Instead, he was still hopelessly caught in Tauris' gravitational pull. Not that Francis could blame him, the omega was everything that Francis no longer was: young, beautiful, and slim.

Francis tried desperately to prize his attention away from the pair. He stared at his computer screen, the numbers and letters blurring into oblivion as fresh tears bubbled up in his eyes. He felt like such an idiot, a complete fool. But more than anything, he felt alone.

He covered his eyes with his hand and let his head fall towards his desk. If anyone asked, he'd tell them he was getting a migraine and save them both the embarrassment of seeing him in such a pathetic state.

He opened his eyes and looked down as he felt his babies stir within him and quickly reminded himself that he wasn't alone. He raised a hand to his belly and rubbed at it comfortingly.

"Are you okay?"

Francis couldn't have felt more relief when he looked up to see that Arthur had finally taken his seat back at his desk.

"I'm fine," his voice sounded so quivery and pathetic. He swallowed, "I just have a bit of a headache."

Arthur's bushy brows knitted together in concern, "do you need some paracetamol, some water? Anything I can get you?"

The alpha reached out a hand to caress the omega's arm and the look he was giving him was so soft and warm, it almost made Francis forget the worries that had been plaguing him all day.

"Some water would be good," he gave Arthur a small smile.

Arthur returned his smile, "I'll pop to the vending machine."

"Merci," Francis called quietly after him.

When Arthur returned, he placed a bottle of water and a paper cup in front of the omega, wearing the same soft smile as before. He let a hand linger over Francis' stomach, gently caressing the bump as he sat down.

Francis felt even sillier than before. Of course Arthur wasn't going to go after Toris. The alpha wasn't interested in dating and besides Francis and the twins would be enough to keep him occupied for a long time.

When it came time to leave, Francis turned his computer off and got up from his chair. He turned to Arthur as he put his coat on. The alpha seemed enthralled in his work, as if he hadn't even noticed Francis get up.

"Arthur?" He said as he smoothed his shirt over his bump, "are you coming?"

Arthur blinked up at him, taking in his appearance. He glanced at his watch, his eyebrows shooting up, "I didn't even notice the time," he gave a weary sigh as he massaged the side of his face with one hand, "I didn't get any of the work done that I was supposed to today," he told Francis as he continued to click away at his computer. Then he turned to the omega and gave a tired smile, "I'll meet you back at the apartment, yeah?"

"Okay…" Francis found himself agreeing sorrowfully, "don't stay too long. I know how you like to overwork yourself."

Francis reached over to press a hand against Arthur's face and run it through his hair.

The alpha smiled at him, "I won't be long."

As Francis headed towards the exit, he turned back to check in on Arthur. The office was clearing out. Arthur was one of the few left, the alpha had his eyes glued to his screen. A few metres away sat Toris, eyes glued on Arthur.

Francis turned away and left with a sinking feeling in his stomach.

Francis was sitting on the sofa watching trashy TV when Arthur returned home. The omega had gotten cold (and lonely) so he'd raided the laundry basket for one of Arthur's cardigans. It sat loosely on Francis' narrow shoulders but he could barely button it over his middle. His hair, dirty and tangled from the day, sat behind his head in a messy, unflattering ponytail. Pierre, who was sitting on Francis' shoulder, chirped loudly, alerting Francis to the alpha's arrival.

He didn't even want to imagine what he must've looked like, disheveled and unkempt. No wonder Arthur was bored of him.

"You're wearing my cardigan," Arthur stated, both his tone and expression seemingly neutral, Francis wasn't sure if he was imagining disdain there too.

Francis gripped the knitted fabric across his chest and closed in on himself. He found himself unwilling to admit that Arthur's lingering scent soothed him and so he said, "I was cold."

Arthur's resulting smile was knowing and it made Francis' heat up in embarrassment. He had to look away and so he threw his attention towards the television.

"Have you eaten?" Arthur asked as he shrugged off his coat and stepped out of his shoes.

"Oui," Francis told him without looking away from the screen, "I was going to wait until you got back but we were hungry."

He heard Arthur chuckle softly and for some reason the sound unnerved him, as if he had unknowingly let some secret part of him slip. He turned to Arthur, unable to stop his brows from dipping into a frown.

The alpha's smile was warm as he came up behind the sofa where Francis was sitting and reached a hand down to caress his belly.

"I think it's rather endearing when you say we, when you really mean you."

Francis could hear the teasing in Arthur's words but still his cheeks burned unreasonably bright as a sense of indignation flew over him.

"We are a we," he pouted.

"I know," Arthur chuckled. His head was level with Francis' as he leaned over the back of the sofa, his attention spread thinly between Francis and his bump. As Francis looked at him, a fiery desire ignited within him. Arthur was standing so close, their faces practically touching. If Francis turned his head slightly to the left and Arthur lowered his jaw just a centimetre, they'd be kissing. It would feel so natural, so easy. Francis was carrying the man's children afterall, it made sense for them to be together. Francis certainly wouldn't object.

Though, whether Arthur would was another question.

The alpha sighed and Francis turned his head, just missing Arthur as he pushed himself off the back of the couch and stood up, "I suppose I'll make something to eat then," he said as he turned towards the kitchen.

"Don't do that," Francis' piped up in a soft voice, "I left your plate in the oven. Hopefully it will still be warm."

Arthur didn't say a word, he only stared at Francis. The omega felt unnerved. He swallowed.

Then Arthur smiled. It was warm and relaxed and even dotted with relief.

"What did I do to deserve you?"

The alpha's smile was bright, it seemed genuine enough but his statement felt hollow.

Francis gave him a soft, tepid smile in return before turning away from the alpha and looking down into his lap with a sigh. The television droned on in front of him but he had long since been paying attention.

He startled slightly when Arthur took his place on the sofa beside him. The alpha balanced his plate on his knee as he set his drink on the coffee table. Francis tutted, "you should eat at the table, not in front of the television."

Arthur gave him an unamused look, a hint of a flat smile dusting at his lips as he shoved his fork into his mouth and took a bite of chicken. Francis rolled his eyes and looked away.

He looked back when he heard Arthur sigh loudly and clear his throat. His brows were furrowed as he tugged at his tie. It fell through his fingers as it loosened its grip around his neck exposing his Adams apple and leaving room for the alpha to let the top few buttons of his shirt to fall open. Francis found his mouth watering and not from the smell of his delicious cooking. He felt ridiculous. Arthur had shown barely a sliver of skin and he was already hot and bothered.

But as much as he tried to ignore the fire in his belly, there was no denying the arousal he felt looking at Arthur. An arousal that now felt maddening as he no idea just where he stood with the omega. And after today, he was left wondering if there was anything between them at all.

When the alpha looked at him, he couldn't help but look away, almost missing Arthur's slight look of puzzlement probably regarding the omega's uncharacteristically rosy cheek.

When the alpha finished his meal, he set his empty plate on the coffee table and leaned back with sigh.

"That was delicious, Francis. Thank you."

The omega smiled in thanks but didn't say anything. Arthur looked at him, a content smile on his face as he turned towards Francis. He lifted an elbow to rest on the back of the sofa while he spread his other hand over Francis' bump.

"How's everyone doing?"

"We are fine," Francis snipped and Arthur chuckled. The omega then smiled softly as he lifted a hand and placed it beside Arthur's, "I think they're asleep," he told the alpha.

"Finally giving their mother a break," Arthur quipped.

Francis gave a soft, quiet chuckle.

"How was work? Did you get all of your work done?" Francis asked, he wasn't looking at Arthur.

"Most of it," the alpha replied, he was stroking the omega's belly until slowly he stopped and looked at him, "something weird happened after you left, though."

"What…?" Francis frowned.

"Well, you know, Toris? He started working here yesterday," Arthur explained and already Francis could feel anxiety viciously claw at his chest.

"Oui," he replied, cautiously.

"Well, he asked me if I wanted to go out on Friday night to a…a club," the alpha gave a short incredulous chuckle but when he looked at Francis, his amused grin vanished in an instant.

In one short moment all the terrible fears that Francis had built up in his head throughout the day suddenly came crashing down around him and pulled his world with them.

"Why are you telling me this?"

Arthur frowned, "well I…I don't…"

"Because you think I care?" The omega suddenly cut in, "I don't care who you go out with, Arthur."

It was hard to ignore the way the alpha flinched, reeling at Francis' harsh tone. Still, he couldn't bring himself to feel bad, Arthur was the one betraying him.

"Well I just thought…" Francis watched the alpha's shoulders slump.

"What? That I would stop you? Well...I think you should go for it," the omega tried his best to sound as curt and uninterested as he could despite the quiver in his voice.

"You think I should go for it?" Arthur repeated slowly as if he hadn't quite understood the words he was hearing.

"Absolutely!" Francis lied, because he would not give Arthur the satisfaction of seeing him in such a pathetic and lonely state.

"Are you sure?"

"Why wouldn't I be? It is not like there is anything between us."

"There's not?"

"Is there?"

The air thickened with silence making it hard to breathe as the pair gazed at each other. The rally had ended when Francis took a swing and landed the ball in Arthur's court. Now the alpha had to decide whether to launch it back to Francis or admit defeat.

"I suppose there isn't," he sighed.

"Right," Francis said, his sharp tongue cutting a gash across Arthur's chest, "so you're free to date whoever you want."

"Really?"

"Really!"

"Well...okay."

Francis' blood immediately stopped boiling, it ran cold as ice as he stared at the alpha with an open mouth.

"He gave me his number," Arthur explained, his nonchalance leaving the omega reeling, "I guess I'll call him later."

Francis stared after Arthur, his mouth agape, as the alpha picked up his empty plate and headed for the kitchen. The omega didn't really know what he had expected to happen, but really he shouldn't have been surprised after how he had just acted. As a feeling of dread washed over him, he lifted a hand to his mouth and chewed on his nail - a habit he thought he'd left behind after a childhood of his mother warning him not to. He felt his babies stir within him. He lowered his hand and spread it out across his belly but it wasn't enough to comfort him.

It was Saturday night. Arthur had left at around 7:45pm that evening to meet Toris for their date and left Francis alone in the apartment. The goodbye had been rather awkward. Arthur seemed nervous, and slightly apprehensive, something which Francis didn't know how to interpret. His gut was telling him that it was a bad sign. He wouldn't be nervous if he didn't have feelings for Toris.

Francis had been giving the alpha the cold shoulder the entire morning and afternoon. In hindsight, he knew he was probably behind a little harsh seeing as he had given Arthur his blessing to go on the date and had even encouraged it (why did he say that?) Even so, he found himself furious that the alpha had agreed to the date.

He had essentially abandoned the omega.

He wasn't going to sit here and stew like some pathetic loser. He got his phone out and called Gil.

"Do you want to come over to Arthur's apartment? My apartment."

"Sorry, Fran, I've got a hot date."

Francis could hear the alpha's grin through the phone.

"With who?" Francis hoped he didn't sound too incredulous, except he was feeling too sorry for himself to care if he offended Gil.

"Elizabeta."

Francis could hear the grin growing, he was happy for the alpha even if he was the cockiest man on the planet. Francis could easily put on the charm, ask Gil to cancel his date and he would happily come running to Francis' side like the good friend he was. But Francis knew how long Gil had been crushing on Elizabeta. He knew how much he had wanted to ask her out...if he asked the alpha to cancel, he wouldn't be a good friend at all.

"I'm happy for you."

"Thanks, Fran."

"Is Toni free?"

"He's with Lovino."

Francis sighed.

"You okay?"

"I'm fine."

"I can cancel."

"Non!" Francis was quick to say, "I promise I'm fine Gil. Enjoy your date."

"If you say so," Gil agreed apprehensively, "Where's Arthur?"

Francis looked towards the empty space next to him on the sofa, "he's out."

"With Toris?"

Francis sighed.

"That's it, I'm coming over."

"Non. If you dare come over here, I won't let you in. I'm not making you miss out on your date because of me."

The line was quiet yet Francis could hear Gil silently mull over his options.

"You sure you'll be fine?"

The omega laughed humourlessly, "I'm a grown man, Gil, I'll be fine. I'm just feeling sorry for myself."

"It's just one date. It's not like he's getting married," Gil's voice was soft but stopped abruptly as the alpha realised he'd possibly said the ring thing, "I'm sorry."

"It's fine, Gil, I'm just…I'm just being dramatic. It's not like he's getting married, you're right."

"Francis…"

"You should go, don't keep Elizabeta waiting on my account."

"Okay," he heard Gil release a soft sigh, "love you."

"Love you, too."

After hanging up, Francis let out a pitful whine to which his bird answered with a bright chirp as he nuzzled the omega's hair.

"At least I have you, mon petit."

Gil's words echoed through his head as he watched Pierre nuzzle against his finger as he stroked the bird.

It's not like he's getting married.

It was true, Arthur wasn't getting married. But what if one day he did decide to get married. It's not like Francis could stop him. It's not like anything could stop him, not Francis, not their children. Arthur was a free man and he could do to do whatever he chose. Without Francis.

If he wanted to go off and get married and start a new family, one that was wanted and planned, then he could. Francis would just have to deal with this life alone.

He couldn't help resent the alpha, a feeling that brought on immense guilt in waves. He placed both hands on his belly and looked down. He didn't regret his babies, but sometimes the loneliness was enough to bring him to tears.

He sat there for god knows how long feeling sorry for himself, sniffing away until there were no more tissues in the box they kept on the coffee table. He sighed as he looked around the empty room, his vision finally landing on his protruding middle. He put his hands to the surface and rubbed gently, "you must think your mother is pathetic," he told them quietly.

They answered with soft kicks to the palms of his hands. They often grew restless whenever Francis was upset. It was as if they could sense his discomfort and were trying to make him feel better.

Even if he didn't have Arthur, he was not truly alone and he never would be again.

Francis sniffed as he caressed the sides of his belly with his thumbs, "je vous aime, mes petites."

With a sniff, Francis wiped his runny nose and dried the remainder of the tears from his eyes. He rubbed gently as his babies kicked, laughing softly to himself as he sniffed back the last of his tears.

It was impeccable timing too as Arthur stepped through the door just in time to miss the worst of his hysterics.

"You're home early," the omega sniffed and quickly palmed his eyes dry in time to turn to Arthur and smile. He hoped his eyes weren't too red and his voice too hoarse as he spoke.

He took the alpha's early arrival as a good sign but when he saw the enamoured smile on Arthur's face, his heart sank, "how was it?" He forced himself to ask.

The alpha looked at Francis as he removed his coat, the smile on his face quickly faltering.

"Francis, are you okay?"

Obviously he had not disguised his anguish well enough.

"I'm fine,"

Arthur was by his side on the sofa in seconds, "you've been crying."

"I…I haven't, I'm fine," he lied, "how was your date?"

Despite himself, he needed to know. His entire life now depended on the answer.

"Francis…" Arthur eyed the omega sceptically. He reached a hand out that was quickly retracted as the omega snapped.

"I'm fine!" And then calm yet persistant, "tell me about the date. Where did you go? Have you eaten? Did you kiss? How was the club? Did you do any dancing?" Francis softly tapered out as he realised he was asking too many questions and probably sounded insane. The quizzical look on Arthur's face cemented his suspicions.

"It was fine…" the alpha answered slowly, "I wasn't really looking forward to it but, I actually had a lot more fun than I thought I would. I think…I had a good time."

"Oh," it was the answer that Francis had been expecting but not the one he wanted, "and…" he had to ask, "and Toris? How did you get along?"

"Fine. Better than I thought. He's…nice."

"Did you kiss?" Francis hoped the alpha wouldn't pick up on the double dropping of the question but he needed to know. It would keep him up all night otherwise.

"No."

Francis felt his heart sigh in relief.

"We just danced a little."

"You hate dancing," somehow this felt like an even bigger betrayal and the omega felt fresh tears prick his eyes.

"Well, h-he practically begged me."

A frown of displeasure settled across Francis' lips, his brows fell into a furrow and his arms folded themselves neatly across his chest. Arthur looked at him in concern as he pouted but soon his expression morphed into a pleased smirk.

Francis felt unsettled.

"Are you jealous?"

There it was. The worst possible set of words that Arthur could have strung together. He looked at the alpha in horror before he burst out with, "non!"

"Francis…" Arthur chuckled.

Francis couldn't stand it, "I am not jealous!"

"It's okay to be jealous, Francis. I know you haven't gone on any dates in a while-"

"It's not that," Francis spoke softly.

"Then what?"

The omega swallowed before speaking, he stared at the ground, brows furrowed as he spoke too softly, "I just don't want you to leave me."

His voice was soft, too soft for Arthur to hear a word of it, "what did you say?"

Francis felt his breathing quicken, his chest tighten and tears prick at his eyes.

"I don't want you to leave me!" He heard himself shout, "you're going to leave me and the babies to get married and start a new family and I'm going to be alone."

"Francis…" Arthur looked at the omega, startled. A heavy silence settled between the pair and Francis felt sick with terror that he had let too much of himself slip. Then Arthur spoke, "you're never going to be alone."

"I'm already alone," his voice was miniscule.

"How can you say that?" The alpha asked, his voice cracking slightly. Francis looked up and met his eyes as Arthur told him, "I'm right here."

"For now," Francis pressed on intensely, "what about when you meet someone and you fall in love? And you want to start a real family…"

"A real family?" Arthur had the cheek to let out a chuckle, "Francis unless you've been faking this pregnancy the entire time, then this is a real family."

"You know what I mean," he sighed forelornly, "a family that you planned. That you wanted. With someone you love…"

"Francis I…"

"I know it is selfish but I need you Arthur…" Francis interrupted, it didn't matter what Arthur had to say, Francis need to get the words out and if he didn't now, he would never, "And I know I said that I do not care if you date other people but I lied. I lied, Arthur, I don't want you to go on dates with anyone. I know I have no right to ask you to stay single but… but I need you, right now. I need you all to myself."

"Then you have me."

He stared at Arthur in awe. The words were spoken so resolutely. The promise was made so easily that for a second Francis let his heart hope.

"What?"

"I won't go on anymore dates and I won't see anyone else." The alpha told him, "You have my undivided attention. Which you should already have had." Arthur added as he took Francis' hands gently in his own and looked at the omega, showering him with his undivided attention.

"But…but I am being so unreasonable."

"Francis, you're carrying our children, I think you're allowed to be a little unreasonable." Arthur raised a hand to Francis’ bump to emphasize his point.

The omega felt his cheeks heat up.

"Besides," Arthur continued with an easy smile, "I shouldn't have gone on that date. I didn't even want to go, Toris really isn't my type."

"Then why did you go?" Francis felt himself pout.

"You told me I should!"

"Oh…" Francis' pout fell into a frown, "well, I was lying."

"How the bloody hell was I supposed to know that, Francis?" Arthur was wearing a smile as he gave an exasperated chuckle.

"Sorry," Francis whispered as he dove for Arthur's chest. The alpha tensed beneath him but before Francis could pull away in embarrassment, the alpha wrapped his arms around him. "I should not have told you to go. I don't know why I did, I just…I am glad you are home now."

"Me too," Arthur sighed as the omega nuzzled against his chest. His breathing calmed along with his scent and Arthur relaxed too.

They settled into a comfortable silence, Arthur absentmindedly rubbing Francis' shoulder as he listenined to the omega's steady breathing.

"I'll always be by your side, Francis," he suddenly found the courage to say, "I promise. The three of you…you're the only things I need." He took a deep, shaky breath before closing his eyes and counting to three. He was glad that Francis had his face nuzzled against his shoulder because he wouldn't be able to speak otherwise.

"I love you."

Silence.

"Francis?" Arthur's voice was shaking.

He knew he shouldn't have said that. He'd gone and ruined everything.

He began to spiral, his heart and mind beginning to race, until he heard a soft snore. And then a louder snore.

He looked down to see Francis asleep on his shoulder and suddenly he could let go of the breath he'd been holding onto.

He released a short chuckle, unable to stop himself smiling fondly at the sleeping figure in his shoulder, “of course,” he muttered to himself.

Chapter Text

"Are you sure you'll be okay by yourself?"

Francis gave the alpha a rueful smile, "oui, Arthur. I am not an invalid."

Arthur chewed his lip as he stood in the doorway to their apartment, looking over Francis worriedly.

The omega gave him a stern smile, his shoulders slumping with a sigh as he raised a hand to his stomach, "I will be fine, Arthur, t'inquietes pas.."

The alpha looked unconvinced, his hand tightening around the handle of his suitcase, "are you sure? I can stay…"

Francis shook his head, "and what would Ludwig say? He is expecting his top salesmen to be there to represent the branch. He would be very disappointed if you were missing."

Arthur smiled through pursed lips, "it should really be you there."

Francis sighed and gave the alpha a carefree smile as he ran a hand over his bump and shrugged, "c'est la vie."

"La vie," Arthur replied.

Francis rolled his eyes but smiled and gave the alpha a soft chuckle despite himself. He looked at Arthur softly and then down to the alpha's wrist, which he leaned forward to grab.

"You're going to miss your train," he told him as he peered at his watch.

Arthur sighed, "right."

He looked at Francis expectantly as if there was something that he wanted to say but just couldn't get out. In the end, he didn't say a thing and instead pressed his lips together as he smiled at the omega.

"Well…I'll see you on Sunday night," he finally sighed.

"A plus... I hope the meeting goes well, mon cheri. Bonne chance."

"Thank you," he smiled before setting his suitcase down and reaching forward to pull Francis into a hug.

It was a slightly awkward hug, given the fact it appeared neither of them had been expecting it and as a consequence had no idea where to put their arms. Arthur's were wrapped around the omega's back and Francis had opted for an awkward pat to the alpha's shoulder. Francis felt his belly press against Arthur's front and couldn't help feeling that he was at an awkward size for an embrace until Arthur broke the hug apart quickly and stepped back.

Francis smiled at the alpha, a little startled.

Arthur opened his mouth as if to speak but quickly closed it and gave the omega a pursed smile and curt nod of the head before he reached down for his suitcase and turned down the hall.

Francis found himself smiling after the alpha as he watched him leave and when he ran a hand over his bump, he could feel the twins squirm excitedly at the contact. He smiled down at them as he closed the door and made his way to the kitchen where he turned on the stove and got to preparing dinner.

Francis looked across the table to the empty chair. The apartment seemed empty without Arthur. He ate his meal slowly, taking the time to savour it unlike how the alpha usually ate.

He was excited for an evening alone even if part of him did miss having a life sized pillow to rest against while snuggling on the sofa.

Since Arthur was gone, Francis had the opportunity to watch everything the alpha hated and he started with his favorite trashy reality TV drama. However, he soon realized it wasn't the same without Arthur's snide comments and witty remarks.

With a sigh, he turned the TV off and pushed himself up. He was tired, like he always had been recently; the twins were getting heavy and it was exhausting carrying them around all day. It didn't seem like they ever stopped moving either so Francis barely had any time to rest. On top of that, his legs were like jelly from standing all day. It only took a millisecond of unsure footing and suddenly he had lost all balance.

When he fell, he fell hard. His entire left side came crashing onto the hardwood floor and he yelped. Instinctively, he had held his arm out to break his fall but he could still feel his stomach hit the ground.

He was still and silent as he gradually tried to compose himself. He was fine. Nothing seemed to come to his immediate attention.

It wasn't until he slowly, carefully started to push himself up that he felt it. A terrible, sharp pain that tore through his entire left side leaving him paralysed. He collapsed against the arm of the sofa, clutching his belly.

Pierre came to his side and started worriedly chirping in his ear.

He cried out in pain and let his head fall against his chest as he wrapped his arms protectively around his babies. He whimpered helplessly in agony for his alpha as he tried to push himself up and reach for his phone. His hands were shaking as he called Arthur's number but he managed to still them slightly as he held the phone up to his ear and listened to it ring. And ring. And ring.

Until the sound of Arthur's voice informed the omega that he was busy and couldn't answer the phone. Even the sound of a prerecorded message was enough to calm Francis and he managed to get a shaky message across to the alpha's inbox, "Arthur... something's wrong...I…I fell over…" he gasped as a wave of pain rushed through him, "come home, please. Or just...just call back."

His heart was still racing as he hung up and redialled Arthur's number, waiting anxiously for his answer. He sat on the floor leaning against the sofa with a hand cradling his belly as he waited for Arthur to answer. He wasn't sure how long he waited or how many times he called. He stopped counting after the 5th frantic voicemail he left.

Eventually he realised how stupid he was being. If Arthur hadn't answered the first time, he wasn't going to answer the next 54 times either. He knew he needed to call the hospital or someone else that could take him to the hospital but he was terrified. He didn't want to go and have them inform him of the worst.

He started crying at the mere thought and suddenly it was incredibly difficult to move or even form a cohesive thought.

He had to get ahold of himself. Going to the hospital was not a death sentence, in fact it was what was going to make sure the twins were okay. With a steadying breath, he called Gil and waited for his answer. The phone kept ringing and Francis' chest tightened with anxiety that his friend wouldn't answer either.

"Wasssuupppp, Franny," the alpha's voice was slurred and gleeful and of course, Francis should have known he would be off his tits this late on a friday night.

"Gil," he sniffed quietly and with that one word he could sense the atmosphere on the other end of the line completely shift.

"Is everything okay?" Gil's words were still slightly slurred but Francis could recognise the concern that laced them.

"I need…" Francis stopped to take a gasp, "I need you to take me to the hospital."

"Shit," Gil gasped, "shit I'll be right there. Are you at home?"

Francis nodded, "yes."

"I'll get Toni to drive, we're coming now, okay?"

"Okay," Francis replied with a gasp.

"I'm gonna hang up now, okay?" Gil's voice was soft and soothing.

"Non," Francis pleaded, "stay on the phone. Please. I need...I need…"

"It's okay, Fran, I'll stay on the phone," he told his friend softly and Francis listened as Gil went to wake up his roommate.

He could only hear snippets of their muffled conversation.

"...I told you...I have a headache…"

"Francis...the hospital."

A groan. And then a loud, "what?"

"Is that him on the phone?"

"Yeah."

"Francis?" The omega heard Toni's voice call down the line, "are you okay? We're on our way to come get you."

"I'm sorry," Francis cried, "I didn't know you were sick. You don't have to-"

"Don't be silly, Francis. It's just a cold. Now, are you okay? What's the matter?"

Francis swallowed back a few tears, "I fell over and now I…everything hurts, Toni. I'm scared."

"It's okay," Toni told him, "we'll be there soon."

Gil took the phone off them as they got into the car and talked to Francis as they made their way to his apartment.

"We're nearly there, can you make it downstairs?" Gil asked.

Francis stared at his legs, splayed lifelessly beneath him. They were numb, he couldn't feel them. He tried with a painful moan to move them but it was no use.

"Non," he sobbed, "I can't move. I'm sorry."

"It's okay," Gil assured him gently, "I have my spare key, we'll come and get you."

When Francis heard the key in the door and turned to see his friends walk through, he was both relieved and terrified all at once. He was glad that he was no longer alone but he didn't want to move. He didn't want to go to the hospital and have them tell him the worst.

He looked at his friends with big round nervous eyes as they knelt down beside him.

"Can you walk?" Toni asked.

The omega shook his head.

Toni and Gil looked to one another briefly before Toni wrapped his arms around Francis and hoisted him up. Francis whimpered in pain but wrapped his arms tightly around Toni's neck as he Carried him out of the apartment.

"It's okay," Toni reassured him as he carried him down to the first floor.

Francis clung tighter as he nuzzled his face into Toni's chest, the alpha's scent reminding him of what he was missing.

"I need Arthur," he whispered.

"Have you called him? Does he know what's happening?"

Francis shook his head as he grimaced into Toni's chest, "non, he wasn't answering."

"Gil's gonna call him, tell him to come straight to the hospital."

Taking that as his cue, Gil pulled out his phone and called the alpha.

"Non…" Francis whined, "he's got...a meeting for...work...it's important."

Toni and Gil shared a look, "Fran, if we tell him what's going on, I don't think anything's gonna stop him from coming back."

Francis moaned painfully into Toni's shoulder as the alpha lowered him into the back of his car with the help of Gil. He started the engine and suddenly the pain became unbearable. Francis clung to Gil's side when the alpha got in next to him on the backseat.

"It's okay," he tried to tell the omega in a soothing voice, "you're gonna be okay."

Francis whimpered into Gil's shoulder as Toni started the car and drove off. He was about to ask the alpha not to call Arthur when the sound of his phone ringing interrupted him. Gil took the phone from his hand when it appeared as if the omega didn't have the clarity of mind to answer it himself.

"It's Arthur."

Francis realised with a painful yearning that he needed Arthur. No matter where he was or what he was doing, he needed Arthur to abandon it and come and get him.

"Tell him that I need him," he whispered, "and I'm sorry."

Despite the fact it was slightly distorted, Francis could hear Arthur's frantic voice through the receiver.

"Francis? Are you okay?"

"It's Gil."

"Where's Francis?" He demanded.

"He's here. He's right next to me. Toni and I are driving him to the hospital."

"Oh god," Arthur gasped, "is he okay?"

"I don't know," Gil told him, "I think you should come to the hospital."

"Of course. Of course. Tell him I'm on my way…Christ," he sighed, "and tell him I lo…" a shaky sigh rattled through the receiver as Arthur reconsidered his choice of words, "tell him I'll be there soon."

Gilbert nodded as he looked down at Francis who was shaking in his arms, "okay."

The last thing Gil heard was another shaky sigh before Arthur hung up. The drive to the hospital was nerve-wracking and filled with deadly silence apart from Francis' soft cries of pain.

Arthur ran around the hotel room in a frenzy, frantically throwing his things into his suitcase. He wasn't being very thorough at all and when he picked up the case to leave, he noticed it was significantly lighter than when he had arrived but he couldn't bring himself to care. He rushed out of the hotel, barely stopping to check out before jumping into the back of the first cab he saw. He didn't care if there was someone else a few steps behind him who had already called for it.

When the driver asked him where to, he found himself stuck between the train station and the hospital. Desperate not to waste any more precious time, he blurted out the name of the hospital and after the longest couple of hours of his life, he didn't even think twice when the driver asked him for £250.

Getting to Francis' room was a nightmare. The receptionist was next to no help and he had to keep biting his tongue and reminding himself that no matter how anxious or overwrought he felt, he shouldn't take it out on her.

Finding his room in the maze of corridors and floors took a lot longer than he anticipated. Eventually he burst through to find Francis sitting on an examination table with Toni and Gil by his side. Arthur had never been so thankful for them than at this moment.

He could only imagine how dishevelled he must have looked. Hair unbrushed, face red, covered in sweat. But he was there now..with Francis. He rushed over to the omega's side and placed his hands over Francis'.

"Arthur," his voice was hoarse and quiet and when Arthur looked at him, the alpha's chest ached to see how red and puffy his eyes were. He reached up to brush the omega's mussed hair from his eyes.

"How are you?" He looked between Gil and Toni nervously as he scanned the empty room for a doctor or nurse, "is everything okay?"

"They took an x-ray on his arm. Then the doctor went to run some tests. That was half an hour ago," Gil told him, "I don't know when he'll be back."

"How are you feeling, love?" Arthur asked Francis softly.

"It's my fault," Francis sniffed, his eyes drifting nervously to meet Arthur's.

Arthur's brow furrowed and he squeezed Francis' hand tighter, "of course it's not."

Francis lowered his gaze to where he was resting his hand over his stomach. Arthur followed his gaze and that was when he realized that Francis was wearing the alpha's cardigan. It was too big on Francis and the knitted green material hung loosely around his arm and over his hand.

He placed a hand next to the omega's, "of course it's not your fault, Francis," he repeated.

The omega swallowed before looking at Arthur again, "how could I have been so careless?"

Arthur furrowed his brows.

"All these months," he continued, "I was so careful, and now…I.. I'm sorry, Arthur."

The alpha quickly shushed him as his words disappeared into a stream of tears, "it's okay, it's okay," Arthur tried to reassure him as he wrapped an arm around the omega's shoulders and squeezed him reassuringly, "I don't think one little fall will do anything."

"But it has," Francis sniffed, "I...I have not felt them move since."

Arthur's stomach dropped and cold sweat dripped from his forehead. He watched helplessly as the omega retracted in on himself, wrapping his arms around his chest and pulling his legs in as close as he could. He was shaking so much and the distress in his scent was so thick Arthur was choking on it.

He opened his mouth to instill some words of hope in the omega but he was cut off when the door opened and a woman with a chart came in.

"Francis Bonnefoy?" She asked, solemnly. Arthur's throat felt tight.

Francis nodded and Arthur rubbed his hand against the omega's shoulder gently.

The doctor's face crumbled with pity as she turned her gaze to the omega's teary eyes, "you all must have been very worried but it's okay," she told them with a kind smile, "we couldn't find anything wrong."

"Thank god," Arthur sighed. He smiled at Francis and gave the omega's hand a reassuring squeeze.

"Are you sure?" Francis asked, his voice quiet and hoarse as his hands smoothed over his belly nervously.

"Yes," she smiled reassuringly, "the babies are happy and healthy. There's nothing wrong with them. You're absolutely fine, and you're free to go."

Francis swallowed as he looked at Arthur. The alpha was smiling at him, his eyes glistening with unspilled tears.

"See," Arthur said gently as he held Francis against his chest, "nothing to worry about."

He looked to Gil and Toni and smiled tiredly, "thank you. For coming with me."

They shook their heads, "it's nothing," Gil assured him.

Francis sniffed against Arthur's chest, "and I'm sorry. For making you miss your meeting."

"Love, don't apologise," Arthur was quick to say, "it's a good thing you came to the hospital. If anything had happened I…" Arthur pulled him in tightly, "I'm just glad you're okay."

"And the babies," Francis said softly.

"And the babies," Arthur chuckled.

After Toni and Gil dropped them off, Arthur took Francis to bed.

"Goodnight," he told the omega softly before heading off to the fold out couch.

"Wait," Francis called and Arthur stopped in the doorway.

"What is it?" His voice was tense.

Francis asked, "will you stay here tonight? I don't want to be alone when I fall asleep…"

Arthur looked at him in surprise, "you want me to sit by your bed?"

"Non," Francis sighed with an amused smile, "sleep beside me."

Arthur’s eyes widened minutely, "o…of course."

Francis watched him make his way back towards the bed. Francis lifted the duvet in invitation and Arthur climbed in beside him.

When he was in bed, Francis let his head rest on Arthur's chest and he nuzzled against the alpha happily.

"You really do like my scent," Arthur chuckled.

"Why is that so surprising?"

"I don't know," Arthur was smiling as he looked down at Francis, "I guess I'm just…flattered."

"Don't be," Francis snorted teasingly, "it is your children. I like whatever they like and unfortunately they seem to like you."

Arthur smiled, "I think you like me."

Francis blushed and didn't say anything.

"You're not denying it."

"Go to sleep, I am tired."

Arthur laughed, "look at you. I'm the one who's supposed to be embarrassed about this sort of thing."

"Ta gueule," Francis said against Arthur's chest as he snuggled closer against it, "go to sleep. Your voice is giving me a migraine."

Arthur couldn't contain his grin as he wrapped his arms around the omega and watched him burrow against his chest. His furrowed brows slowly unfurled into something soft and unaffected as he was dragged under by sleep. It was only when Arthur was sure the omega was completely under sleeps spell that he chanced a soft kiss against the omegas forehead and laid a protective hand over his round stomach.

He felt the tension release from Francis' sleeping form and took that as a sign that the omega felt safe around him. Subconsciously, at the very least.

He spread his fingers out across the taught skin of Francis' belly. It was soft and smooth and suddenly he felt two small movements in quick succession as both of his babies kicked against his hand.

Francis groaned softly, his brows twitching in discomfort as he shifted his weight slightly on top of Arthur.

"I'm sorry, love," the alpha chuckled as he gazed down at the omega in silent wonderment. No matter how many times he got to feel his babies kick, it was a novelty that never wore off.

The next Monday at work was hell. For Arthur because had to stand and listen to Ludwig yell at him for abandoning his position at the meeting and for Francis because he had to sit at his desk and listen to Ludwig yell at Arthur from his office while the entire floor awkwardly overheard.

Francis felt terrible. It was his fault that Arthur had left. He was the one responsible for Arthur's beration.

With a deep breath, he pushed himself up and started towards Ludwig's office.

"What are you doing?" Toni asked worriedly.

"I cannot keep letting him get hounded like that."

Toni shook his head warningly but Francis ignored him and pushed on to Ludwig's office.

"I am sorry to interrupt," Francis said demurely as he stepped into the office.

Ludwig looked quite taken aback as he ceased in his shouting. He gave Francis a rather perplexed look. Francis was looking at Arthur who looked at him in horror.

Ever since he'd found out that Francis was pregnant, Ludwig had been tiptoeing around him, scared to do anything wrong. Perhaps it was a fear of repercussions from HR if he ever said or did something inappropriate, or perhaps he was just an awkward man. Either way Francis was going to use this to his advantage.

"I'm rather busy here, Francis," he managed to say.

"Yes, that was quite apparent," he said pointedly and Arthur grimaced while Ludwig appeared surprisingly contrite. "I just came to say this is not Arthur's fault."

Ludwig frowned. "And why is that?"

Francis sighed while Arthur gave him a pleading look. "I was the one who made Arthur leave the trip early."

"Francis," Arthur interjected worriedly.

"I had to go to the hospital suddenly and I needed Arthur to be there."

"I don't understand, why would Arthur need to be there?"

"He came because…he is the father of my children. And I needed him there."

Ludwig looked between the pair in shock who watched as Ludwig came to terms with the information.

"All relationships between colleagues must be reported to human resources."

"Arthur and I are not in a relationship."

The pair watched as Ludwig failed to compute the information, brow furrowing in perplexity, "I…I don't understand."

Francis pursed his lips, feeling Arthur's frame harden beside him as he went to stand up. Francis placed one hand on Arthur's shoulder to keep the alpha sitting. Arthur glanced up at him nervously as the omega placed his other hand pointedly over the unignorable swell of his stomach.

"This is merely the product of a one night stand," Francis informed him, he could feel Arthur holding his breath beside him as the omega chuckled to himself, "well one of several one night stands. But I assure you, had there been anything of substance to this relationship, you would have been the first to know."

Francis and Arthur both held their breath as they tried to gauge the look of perplexity on Ludwig's face.

"This is..highly irregular," he finally uttered, unsure of himself. "Not to mention, breaks countless company rules."

"I wanted to keep it a secret, so I asked Arthur not to tell anyone." Although it was clear to anyone with eyes what was going on between the two, apparently Ludwig had remained clueless as he was wont to do with such things as human relationships.

Beside him, Arthur chirped in disagreement but Francis tightened his grip on the alphas shoulder, a silent plea for him not to interject; he couldn't help shielding Arthur.

"You understand…there must be repercussions."

At that, Francis crossed his arms and settled into a challenging stance, "what are you going to do, Ludwig? Fire me? A pregnant and unmated omega? If you want your HR scandal so badly then you've got it right there."

"O-of course not…" he stuttered, and it was hard not to feel a little sorry for him, "I just…I'll have to let HR know about this. What they decide to do about it isn't up to me." He sounded nervous, pleading almost.

Francis wasn't worried, he was good friends with Ivan from the HR department who he was sure would have no qualms with this 'new' information. His wry smile and cocked brow told the alpha as much.

"You're both dismissed." Ludwig finally said quietly. Francis took the fact that he couldn't look either of them in the eyes as a sign of victory.

"That was bloody brilliant," Arthur sighed in breathless wonderment as they stepped out of the office.

"I know." Francis couldn't hide his proud smirk, he figured he'd earned a little smugness.

"No, seriously." Arthur's smile was dazed and his sigh breathless as he reached out to hold Francis' arms steady. He looked at the omega, his eyes shining brightly in adoration, "you're bloody brilliant, Francis."

The smile Francis gave in response to Arthur's emphatically genuine grin was a lot more timid. It was rare that Arthur ever spoke so candidly and it made his chest spark with warmth.

Chapter Text

Francis had been irritable all morning. Well, he had been irritable for the last several months and Arthur liked to think that over the course of those months he had been a patient and understanding alpha (for the most part) however that particular morning, Francis was trying his patience to breaking point. Firstly it had been his cooking. Not an unusual grievance for the omega, but that morning Arthur had found himself getting hounded over a plate of scrambled eggs. The very same plate of scrambled eggs that Arthur had made for the omega several times over the last few months without complaint. All of a sudden it was now completely inedible and the omega would have to skip breakfast all because of him.

Secondly, it seemed Arthur was somehow insulting Francis when he took 0.2 seconds too long to answer when the omega asked him if he looked fat in the outfit he had chosen that morning. And of course it was then Arthur's fault when the pair ended up late for work after Francis had spent an hour and a half searching for something else to wear.

Now it seemed that the alpha couldn't even breathe without causing a problem.

"Breathe through your mouth, Arthur!" Francis snapped from his desk, his hands massaging his temple as he glared at the alpha, "I cannot concentrate with you making so much noise."

Arthur could only give him an incredulous frown for a moment before he opened his mouth and let out a long weary sigh.

The omega groaned before turning to glare at the alpha, "you are insufferable."

"I'm insufferable?" Arthur repeated incredulously.

"Oui."

Arthur was finding it difficult to keep his anger contained, "I was literally just breathing, Francis. What do you want me to do? Stop breathing?"

"If only it were that easy."

"Likewise," Arthur spat.

Arthur turned back to his computer with the intent to put the argument to rest but when, out of the corner of his eye, he saw the omega's face contort in hurt, he turned back to roll his eyes.

"Oh, piss off."

"Arthur…" Francis’ voice was barely audible.

"You're really trying my patience, Francis. You berate me all morning but one word is enough to set you off?"

Francis' breath hitched as he dug his fingers into the edge of the desk. Sensing the sudden discomfort in the room, a few people turned their heads and it was then that Arthur realised something was severely wrong.

"Francis?"

The alpha swallowed as Francis seemed to curl in on himself with a stifled gasp.

"Shit," Arthur cursed, "shit. What's wrong?"

"Is he okay?" Feliciano asked as a few concerned onlookers started to gather around the omega.

"I don't know," Arthur told him, agitated with worry, "what's wrong, Francis? Do we need to go to the hospital?"

"Non," Francis replied quickly, his voice hoarse and quiet, "non. I am fine. I do not need to go anywhere. It is just a little contraction-"

"Contraction?" Arthur repeated, his face pale, "what…I…I…what!?"

"I have been having them all morning," Francis tried his best to sound reassuring, "it's fine."

"What!?"

"It's fine,” the omega repeated sternly. “This one is just a little…" his words cut off as he gasped in pain, "just a little more painful than the others."

His palm spread out, cemented to his stomach while he grasped the edge of the desk with his other hand, his knuckles turning white.

"Francis," Arthur's voice wavered as he spoke.

The omega let out a long and shaky breath through his mouth. His eyes, which had been screwed shut, opened slowly and he looked at Arthur with a saccarine smile as the sharp pain eased away.

"It's fine, Arthur," he assured him, his tone and demeanor doing a complete 180 from the storm clouds that had been above his head that morning.

"Francis," Arthur repeated, his tone more serious - a warning.

"It's fine," Francis fought back, his tone more forceful this time before he turned and smiled through his grimace and repeated, "I'm fine."

"Francis, I think you really should go to the hospital," Toni told him as he came to kneel down beside him.

Francis gave him a wounded look.

"Jesus bloody Christ, Francis. You're in labour for crying out loud."

"Non!" The omega cried and Arthur blanched, "non…" he repeated queitly, "non, it's too soon…I am not ready…I…I can't…"

Arthur was quiet, his brows knitted with worry as he easily swallowed his anger and slowly knelt down beside the omega. He lifted a hand and delicately stroked the omega's arm.

"Francis," Arthur's voice was soft and relaxed, his calming scent filled the room, "I know it’s sooner than we expected - I’m scared too but…we have to go to the hospital. It's going to be okay, though. They'll look after you there."

Francis looked at him in utter terror, his lips pressed together slowly opened but before he could speak, Ludwig stepped out of his office.

"What's going on?" He asked, the concern in his voice barely masking the mild irritation,"why have you all stopped working?"

"Fran's gone into labour," Gil explained.

"Non," Francis tried to interrupt, "I am not, I…," he cried out, pressing a hand against his stomach as he clung to the table with his other. He screwed his eyes shut in pain and leaned forward. He tried desperately to soothe the debilitating pain that pounded through his core by rubbing circles into his stomach.

"Bloody hell, Francis, we have to go now," Arthur said urgently, he could feel his chest tightening with worry as he watched Francis double over in pain. All he could think was how stupidly stubborn the omega was being. He knew Francis was scared and he knew that as an alpha he would never understand the pain Francis was going through. But he also knew that he would be a lot more comfortable in a hospital - but most of all, he would be safe.

Jesus Christ. Arthur looked around. This was definitely not a safe place to give birth.

"Francis, get a grip," Arthur said, his words harsh despite the quiver in his voice, "you can't give birth here, we have to get to a hospital. Quickly."

Francis looked at him and guilt pooled in his stomach to see tears in the omega's eyes.

"I'm scared, Arthur. It hurts," he said. His voice barely above a whisper.

Arthur's mouth opened and closed nervously. He took a shallow breath and kneeled before the omega, he pressed one hand against Francis' cheek and spread the other out across his round belly, "I know," he told him softly, "I know. But if we go to the hospital, they can help with that too."

Francis looked at Arthur, his glimmering eyes wide with fear. The silence in the room grew insurmountably until Francis released a quiet sob and slowly he nodded at Arthur.

"Okay," he whispered as he continued to nod, "you’re right."

Arthur sighed with relief. A weight lifted from his chest just as his stomach bubbled up with excitement and nerves.

"Okay," he said softly as he helped Francis out of his chair.

"Do you need someone to drive you?" Toni asked as they began walking to the exit.

"Oh god," Arthur said, "yes. Can you?'

"Of course," he said quickly as he grabbed his coat from the back of his chair.

"I'll come with you," Gil said as he made to follow them to the exit.

"No you will not," his brother told him sternly, "they don't need 2 people to drive."

Gil rolled his eyes, "fire me then," he said as they all rushed with Francis to leave.

Francis and Arthur sat in the backseat of Toni's car. The omega was cradling his swollen stomach with one arm as he held Arthur's hand in a vice like grip with the other.

"Just breathe," Arthur told him in as calm a voice as he could manage.

"I…am…breathing," Francis yelled before erupting into an agonised cry.

Arthur grimaced beside him as he felt the bones inside his knuckle crunch.

"We're almost there," Arthur spoke softly, "you're doing great."

"Shut the fuck up…you patronising piece of shit." the omega spat out in French, through gritted teeth.

"I'm going to pretend I didnt understand that."

"Mon dieu," Francis groaned, "Toni! How far…away?"

"About 10 minutes," he glanced back nervously in the mirror, "just try not to give birth in my car."

"I can't make any…promises," Francis gasped.

It was then that a bloodcurdling scream filled the car and Arthur definitely felt his knuckles breaking but in the true gentlemanly spirit he kept his mouth shut. He tried to peek at his watch but Francis currently had it tugged in the other direction.

"Is anyone timing his contractions?" Arthur asked, "how far apart are they now?"

Gil checked his watch, "about 7 minutes."

"We're fine," Arthur said, mainly to soothe himself, "we have plenty of time."

Francis screwed his eyes shut and threw his head back against the seat as he groaned.

"We're fine," Arthur repeated, "we're almost there."

Francis turned his head slowly to look at Arthur, the glare he sent him made the alpha’s stomach twist in terror.

"I…hate you," the omega told him through a gasp.

Arthur found himself smiling sightly, "you're doing amazing."

Francis glared at Arthur before he closed his eyes and grimaced as he continued to breathe slowly through his nose.

"We're here," Toni said as the car came to a stop.

"I'll get a wheelchair," Gil said as he jumped out of the car and dashed towards the hospital.

He signalled his return with a tap to Arthur's window. The alpha opened the door and with a few deep breaths guided Francis out of the vehicle and into the chair.

They were given a room fairly quickly and Francis a hospital gown to change into. The doctor then told Francis that he wasn't ready to give birth for another few hours and so the three alpha's were left alone to help the omega through his contractions.

"I got you some ice," Gil said as he came back into the room carrying a paper cup.

He walked over to Francis who was bent over the side of the hospital bed, gripping the bars at the side as Arthur rubbed circles into his back. He h placed the cup on the bedside table since Francis didn’t look like he was standing up straight anytime soon.

"How are you doing?" Gil asked with concern.

"Awful," Francis groaned. He let his head fall against the bed covers and he sobbed, "I cannot do this."

"Yes, you can," Arthur told him as he rubbed the sides of Francis' waist, "it'll be over before you know it."

Francis looked over his shoulder and glared. Gil swallowed nervously before picking up the cup again, "do you want some ice?"

Francis' glare crumpled into a pained grimace and he groaned. He was breathless when he spoke again, "help me sit down."

Toni and Arthur were by his side in an instant offering their hands which Francis took ahold of gladly before they guided him round to the end of the bed where he sat down. He leaned back on both his arms and let his head fall back as he released a moan. Gil held the cup out in front of him and he took it with a shaky hand.

"Everything hurts," he said weakly after he finished his mouthful of ice. With a weary frown, he looked down at his massive stomach, "they won't stop moving."

Arthur looked at him with concern as he crouched down in front of the omega and placed his hands either side of his belly. He could feel his children nudge him softly against his palms.

The relief on Francis' face was instant. He looked down with a sigh and smiled wearily at Arthur, "they know it's you."

Arthur smiled up at the omega and slowly began massaging the sides of his belly.

Francis sighed, "keep your hands there," he ordered the alpha.

Arthur did as Francis told him quietly. He stayed kneeled at the end of the bed with his hands either side of the omega's stomach. He looked up at Francis from the ground and watched as the omega threw his head back and released a cry of pain before his head fell forward towards Arthur and he cried harder.

Arthur found himself staring up at Francis, intently watching the omega, staring at his face as it contorted in pain. His brows were knitted together, his features scrunched up and his fringe clung to his forehead in sweaty patches of blonde curls. Arthur had never seen Francis like this before. The sight stirred a familiar feeling within him. It started from his stomach, a bubbling of butterflies that rose into his chest and made his heart flutter. Francis was amazing, he was strong and he was brave and he was the most wonderful person in the world.

A bloodcurdling cry drew the alpha from his thoughts while, simultaneously, the door opened and their doctor stepped through.

"How are we doing?" He asked gently as he closed the door and stepped into the room.

"I feel awful," Francis told him breathlessly when his scream came to an end.

"He's in a lot of pain," Arthur told the doctor as he gave Francis an apologetic look and grazed his thumbs against the curve of his omega’s belly.

"Unfortunately that's to be expected," the doctor smiled, "as long as its not unbearable."

"Define unbearable," Francis groaned.

The doctor smiled kindly at him, "how much does it hurt, on a scale from 1 to 10."

Francis thought for a moment, "j'sais pas…8?"

"8 is good, 8 is not too bad," he told the omega, "now, if you want to sit up on the bed and get your legs in the stirrups. I think you're ready to give birth."

Francis stared at him with wide eyes as a hand came down to cradle his belly. He looked at Arthur and the alpha felt his stomach flip, "ah."

Toni and Arthur were at the omega's sides quickly and were helping him move up to the other end of the bed.

"Are you two related to the mother in any way?" The doctor then asked Toni and Gil.

They shook their heads.

"Then it's probably best you wait outside."

They nodded in understanding before saying goodbye to Francis.

"You can do this," Toni told him with a smile as he placed a hand on Francis' shoulder.

"We'll be right outside," Gil told him as he placed a kiss on his forehead.

Francis smiled weakly after them as they left, the door swinging open momentarily as more people walked in. Then it all happened so fast and suddenly Arthur was by Francis' side, his hand in the omega's as he was being told to push. But nothing was happening.

"When you feel a contraction, I need you to push really hard," the midwife told him, "okay Francis?"

Francis grimaced but he nodded in understanding.

He cried out loud and Arthur watched helplessly as his face contorted in pain.

"That wasn't nearly hard enough," the midwife told him, his tone soft yet serious.

Francis gasped breathlessly as his head fell back onto the pillow behind him, "I can't," he whimpered helplessly, "I can't do it."

Arthur squeezed the omega's hand gently and smiled at him, "yes, you can. You can do this, Francis."

Francis frowned at Arthur weakly, the sour expression soon crumpled in pain.

"I need another really big push this time, Francis, the first baby is in am awkward position so it's going to be more difficult than usual," the midwife told him and Francis screwed his eyes shut and took a deep breath before the room filled with his loud agonised cry of pain.

"You just need to push a little harder, Francis."

Francis' head dropped onto the pillow again in defeat and he whimpered quietly, "I am trying."

"I know, Francis," the midwife told him, "just a little harder, okay? The harder you push, the quicker this will all be over."

Arthur looked at Francis and couldn't work out if the water that was running down his cheek was a drop of sweat or if he had started cryng until the omega released a choked sob, "it hurts."

"It's going to hurt," the doctor warned him gently, "but it'll be over before you realise."

"Why can't it be over now?" Francis whined, he sounded like an insolent little toddler but Arthur knew he was truly hurting. Arthur was helpless to stop it. He could soothe the omega with words and his scent all he wanted but it would never truly stop the pain. Francis was really on his own now and Arthur felt like shit because of it.

"Francis," Arthur's voice was soft and his scent was soothing, "I know it's difficult, and I know I could never begin to understand what you're going through, but I know you can do this."

Francis looked at Arthur as he breathed heavily through his nose, his chest was heaving and he looked ready to pass out.

"You can do this," Arthur repeated as he gave the omega's hand a gentle squeeze, "just squeeze my hand and imagine it's my balls. That might help."

Francis let out a pathetically weak chuckle, "Arthur…Mon dieu…"

Arthur held his breath as he watched the omega screw his eyes shut and release a loud agonised groan as his cheeks turned red. His hand felt like it was being crushed but he didn't dare mention it.

"That's it," the doctor said encouragingly, "keep going."

And so he kept going and Arthur watched in awe and concern as Francis pushed and pushed.

"You're doing really well," the doctor told him, "just like that."

As Arthur looked at Francis, he felt a sense of pride and admiration. He had never put much stock into Francis' strength, or the strength of any omega for that matter. He had always seen Francis as someone weak, someone he needed to protect, only now did he realize how wrong he had been. In fact, these last several months had been a testament to just how strong Francis really was and how Arthur needed to reevaluate his entire mindset.

Francis went completely quiet, and Arthur watched, his stomach twisting with worry as Francis' face screwed up in pain. Until a soft, high pitched cry filled the room and Arthur's stomach bubbled up with nervous anticipation. Francis slowly opened his eyes. The alpha found himself smiling giddily as they both tried to catch a glimpse of their child as the doctor held him up for them both to see.

"Would you like to cut the umbilical cord, Mr Kirkland?"

Arthur looked to Francis and the omega gave him a tired smile so he stood up, "um…y-yes."

Arthur's breath hitched as he looked down at the baby in the doctor's arms. He was small and pink and crying and he took Arthur's breath away. He looked up and locked eyes with Francis who gave him a small exhausted smile.

Arthur's hand was shaking ever so slightly as he raised the tiny scissors up and suddenly he felt an enormous burst of anxiety. The baby was so small and delicate and the scissors so sharp. What if he hurt this tiny little thing?

He was absolutely careful as he closed the blade around the cord and snipped, letting out a shuddered breath once he had cut it and the nurse told him, "I'll go and get him cleaned up."

Arthur stared after his child breathlessly, until a sharp inhale brought his attention back to Francis. He was at the omega's side in an instant, his hand coming up automatically to stroke the side of his head and push the sweaty hair from his eyes.

The omega let out soft pained moans, his eyes screwing up in pain. Any relief or excitement Arthur might have previously felt was washed away by a sense of urgency and anxiety for Francis.

"Looks like his brother's getting impatient," the doctor told them, "I'm going to need you to start pushing again, Francis, just like before."

Francis whimpered as he let his head fall against arthur's hand.

"I need a break," he begged, his voice small and weak, "please…I can’t."

"I'm sorry, Francis, you have to keep going," the doctor told him gently.

Francis sighed heavily through his nose. Arthur could see how much pain he was in from the grimace on his face and once again he felt useless.

"Francis," he started gently, rubbing his thumb against the side of the omega's face, "you're amazingly strong, I…I don't know why I couldn't see it before but you are. You really are," Arthur sighed as he wiped at the sweat on Francis' brow, "I know it's not easy but you're doing so well."

Francis looked exhausted and worn out. His skin was clammy and pale and yet his cheeks were bright red. He had bags under his eyes and his damp hair had curled around his face in a way Arthur knew the omega would insist looked incredibly unflattering but Arthur had never seen him looking so beautiful.

When Francis gave him a weak smile, something within Arthur's chest warmed slightly and it was as he watched the omega push and strain until he was red in the face that he realised something that changed his life forever.

He was breathless and the world seemed to slow around them.

If he was truly honest with himself, he had known about his feelings for a while now. He had just been pointedly ignoring them because he didn't know if Francis felt the same. That didn't matter to him now. Now, he had never been more sure that he was in love with Francis Bonnefoy.

Francis collapsed back onto his pillow as the sound of their child crying filled the room. When the nurse offered Arthur the chance to cut the cord again, he refused as he didn't think he could get his hands to stop shaking. Instead he turned to Francis and smiled. The omega gave him an exhausted smile in return as Arthur gently ran his fingers through the omega's damp hair and smoothed his palm against his cheek.

"We are never doing that again," Francis sighed.

"We?" Arthur repeated with a light incredulous chuckle, "I know I often take credit for things I never did but that…that was all you, Francis," Arthur's chest swelled with pride as he looked at the omega, "I just sat there like a lump."

Francis gave a soft breathless laugh as he looked at Arthur.

"Mon dieu," he sighed, "I am tired."

"I know," Arthur smiled at him as he smoothed a hand over his forehead, "you can rest now."

Arthur could feel the tension glide away from Francis as he spoke, could taste the relief in the air and the content sweetness of his scent. He watched Francis close his tired eyes and the alpha smiled.

Francis didn't rest for long however, his eyes shot open again as the nurse approached and asked them if they would like to hold the babies. Francis had his arms outstretched immediately as he sat up and waited for the nurse to hand him one of them. Arthur watched him as he welcomed their son into his arms. He felt lightheaded and breathless. The look in Francis' eyes as he looked down at their baby made his heart skip a beat.

He was pulled from his thoughts as the nurse stole his attention away.

"Would you like to hold him?"

"Ah, thank you," he said breathlessly as he gently took the baby off her.

His entire world slowed as he looked down at the tiny thing in his arms. He was so small, so fragile and Arthur knew that if he wasn't careful, he'd break the poor little thing. The doctors told him he weighed only 6 lbs but it felt like he was carrying the weight of the entire world in his arms. He looked down at him with nothing but love and joy and smiled breathlessly when he struggled to open his eyes. They were blue just like Francis’. Big and round and innocent. Happy.

“Blaghhla,” he said softly and Arthur’s smile widened as he let out the breath he’d been holding in the form of a short, amazed chuckle.

At that moment, a soft high pitched cry stole Arthur’s attention away from the baby in his arms and towards the baby in Francis’ arms who was wailing and writhing about.

“Qu’est-ce qu’il y a?” The omega muttered as he tried to soothe the baby by rocking him.

Arthur peered down at him and frowned, “what’s wrong? Is he okay?”

“I don’t know,” Francis pouted.

Arthur frowned, hyper aware of the pain and worry in the omega’s scent when one of the nurses came over.

She smiled at Francis in understanding, “he might be hungry. If you’re feeling up to it, you could try feeding him.”

“Feeding him…myself?”

The nurse smiled and nodded.

“Okay,” Francis agreed nervously.

Arthur watched as the nurse helped Francis pull the hospital gown over his shoulder and hold the crying baby against his chest. Arthur was amazed to hear the crying subside as he latched on immediately.

"How does it feel?" The nurse asked him.

Francis looked up and smiled at the nurse in pleasant surprise, "it feels fine."

Arthur found himself smiling at Francis as the omega looked at him until the baby in his arms started to cry as well, loud and needy just like his brother had.

"Oh dear," Arthur worried as he frowned at the poor thing, "what's the matter, lad?"

"He might be hungry too," the nurse cooed.

"Would you like to try feeding them both at once?"

"Oh," Francis looked shocked and a little nervous, "I suppose I could."

The nurse smiled before reaching over to take the baby from Arthur and helping Francis hold him in his other arm. It took this one a lot more fumbling and a little while longer than his brother but eventually he got the hang of things. Arthur pulled up a plastic chair by the side of Francis' bed where he could sit and watch and smile at Francis as the omega fed their children.

Francis looked ethereal as the early morning light streamed in through the window and lit up his blonde hair like fire. Everything about him was beautiful and so perfect and Arthur yearned to tell him.

So he did.

"You look positively radiant."

Francis scoffed.

"I mean it. You look beautiful. Motherhood certainly becomes you."

Francis smiled, a delicate blush dusting his cheeks as he turned to look at Arthur.

"Merci, mon chéri."

Francis' attention couldn't stay captured by Arthur for long as he returned to watching his babies drink their fill.

The doctor and nurses filed out of the room, leaving them alone to sit and recover quietly in their own little universe. Arthur certainly felt like he was in his own little universe. He looked at them and for the second time that day, his entire world shifted. This was his universe. Francis and the twins. They were all that mattered to him anymore.

There had been a weight on his chest, one he had been carrying around in his breast pocket since Christmas when Francis' father had handed it to him and told him to do the right thing. Up until now, Arthur had been sure he knew what the right thing to do had been, but now he wasn't so sure. All he was sure about was that he loved Francis and he loved their boys and he was never ever going to let them down.

"There's something I want to ask you."

Francis looked up at him, his blue eyes were bright and wide with curiosity, his smile was genuine, and his scent was sweet and relaxed.

But as Arthur opened his mouth, the door also opened and in stepped Gil and Toni. The alpha promptly clamped his mouth shut.

The pair stepped up to the bed and immediately Gil was blushing, "woah."

"Oh, grow up," Arthur chastised him, suddenly feeling incredibly irritable.

Francis smiled demurely at the alpha, "it's nothing you haven't seen before, Gil."

Arthur felt himself turn red with embarrassment and a smidge of jealousy at that.

The 2 alphas went to stand around the opposite side of the bed, Toni was peering at the babies intently while Gil stood slightly awkwardly to the side, peering over his shoulder.

The lad on Francis' right decided he was full and slowly went back to babbling incoherently as Toni reached his hand down to coo at him. He looked up and smiled at Francis and Arthur.

"Do they have names yet?"

Francis and Arthur looked at each other in surprise, Francis' expression quickly softened as he looked at both boys before gently squeezing the baby nearest Arthur, "meet Alfred."

Gil snorted, "did Arthur pick that out?"

"How could you tell?" Francis' laugh was bright and carefree.

Arthur bristled, "it's a good name," he insisted, "traditional. Like his father's."

Francis rolled his eyes but the amused smile that tugged at his lips was unmistakable.

Toni and Gil both chuckled.

"It's nice to meet you, Alfred," Toni cooed gently.

"And the other one?" Gil prompted as he looked between both parents for an answer.

Francis looked to Arthur, "I suppose we made a deal. 2 boys. You get to name them both.

"No," Arthur found himself saying immediately, "I can't. You should name one of them."

Francis smiled, "are you sure? Because if they had been both girls, I would not have let you name either of them."

Arthur chuckled, "I'm sure. Like you said, you're the one who carried them around for months, I couldn't…in fact you should be naming both of them."

Francis was quiet for a moment as he smiled at his babies, "I like Alfred," he admitted, "I think he suits it. It is traditional, like his father," Francis looked to the alpha, the smile he gave him sent waves crashing through Arthur's heart.

Arthur watched the omega stare at the other boy wordlessly, joy and admiration clear as day on his face as he thought to himself about what to name him.

"Matthieu," he said softly after a while.

"Matthew," Arthur repeated as he looked at him.

"Matthieu," Francis corrected him with a furrow in his brow.

"That's what I said," Arthur tried to defend himself.

Francis rolled his eyes and tutted before bringing his attention back to Matthieu. His furrowed brow melting away into a gentle smile, "excuse your father, mes petits, he is English."

Gil and Toni laughed gently while Arthur bristled by himself.

"Alfred y Matthieu," Toni smiled, "they suit them."

Francis gave a soft hum in agreement before turning to Arthur, "oh, Arthur, what was it that you wanted to ask me?"

Arthur looked blindsided between Francis and the other 2 alphas by his side, the weight of his breast pocket weighing heavily against his chest.

"Oh," he chuckled nervously, "well actually it was something private…"

"Ah," Francis sighed, "did you want me to have a look at that mole agai-"

"No!" Arthur was turning red quickly, "nothing like that. I just thought you might want to be alone," he said as he looked pointedly at Toni and Gil.

Francis laughed away Arthur's concerns, "nonsense, anything you want to say to me you can say to them. I do not care; they are my friends."

"Well maybe I don't want them here," Arthur tried.

"You said I would want to be alone," Francis corrected him.

"Well I changed my mind."

"Oh mon dieu…" Francis sighed, giving his eyes a dramatic roll for good measure, “just spit it out you silly man.”

"Fine!"

And with that Arthur tore the little box from its home in his jacket pocket and slammed it on the bed in front of Francis.

A thick silence weighed heavy on the room. No one said a word as they stared at the little black box.

"Arthur, what is that?" Francis asked eventually, in a quiet voice.

"Bloody open it and you'll see."

Francis looked at him as if he were stupid, "my arms are a little full at the moment."

"Shit," Arthur sighed quietly before blinking stupidly and reaching out to open the box for him, "this isn't how I wanted to do this, just so you know," he said as he gave a pointed look to Gil and Toni.

"Arthur…" Francis sighed as he looked down at the box.

It wasn't until the omega looked at him, eyes brimming with tears, that Arthur realised just how uncomfortable he felt. Vulnerable and scared and weak and absolutely at Francis' mercy. He felt as if his very life depended on the next words from Francis' mouth.

"Are you asking me to marry you?"

"No, I just want your opinion on the cut of the diamond."

As he heard the words leave his own mouth, Arthur felt like he'd been punched in the gut and what was worse was he had done it to himself. He swallowed as he watched Francis purse his lips and silently he tried to work out how best to apologise.

A millennia seemed to pass in silence until suddenly:

"Non."

Francis turned his head away from Arthur and brought his attention back to the babbling babies in his arms.

Arthur felt completely numb and yet simultaneously on fire.

"Right," he couldn't bring himself to look at anyone as he leaned forward to collect the ring, still in its box.

That wasn't going to haunt him for the rest of his life or anything.

"Wait," Francis said softly as he turned back to Arthur, "I will marry you."

Arthur felt like his head was spinning around a tumble dryer, "you will?"

"Yes, you idiot. You stupid man," the omega was crying now, "I just thought you deserved that."

"I did," Arthur could feel himself crying too and laughing breathlessly, "I'm sorry."

"Somebody take these babies off me so I can kiss my fiancé," Francis sniffled and Toni and Gil both reached forward to take a twin each.

It was then that Francis grabbed Arthur by the shirt and tugged him down to his level where he pressed his lips against the alpha's. Arthur felt himself kneeling beside the bed as he wrapped his arms around Francis' waist, a place where they fit snuggly.

Eventually Francis pulled away and let his hands rest either side of Arthur's face, "of course I will marry you, you idiot."

"Oh, thank god," Arthur sighed quickly and Francis laughed.

Suddenly Matthieu started crying which set off Alfred, and Francis' attention was quickly stolen.

"They need their maman," he sighed dramatically as he reached his arms open wide for both babies. Toni and Gil each handed him one after the other. He began shushing them and slowly they quietened down. Francis smiled, he looked content and happy as he held both babies in his arms but Arthur could tell he was tired. Arthur himself felt exhausted both mentally and physically and wasn't even the one who had just gone through 16 hours of labour. Lord knew how Francis must have felt.

"Why don't I take Matthew?" He offered, his arms outstretched.

He didn't miss the slight glare that Francis shot him but thankfully the omega didn't press any further and let Arthur take the baby from him. The omega sighed, clearly relieved, and sank into the pillow slightly.

Eventually, Toni and Gil had to leave and then it was just Arthur, Francis, and the twins.

"Francis," Arthur started, unsure of himself and his next words.

Francis gave a noncommittal hum in response, far too preoccupied by the lively bundle of blankets in his arms. Arthur found himself smiling as he watched the pair, before his eyes darted back down to little Matthew in his arms, fast asleep.

When he looked back up at the omega, Francis was smiling at him expectantly and Arthur suddenly felt an immense pressure weighing him down.

"I…ugh…" he coughed to clear his throat and his mind of fog, "I want to tell you something that I think I've known for a while now but I've just…I've just been too afraid to say…"

Francis looked at Arthur as he sat silently and when the anticipation proved too much he prompted the alpha with a soft, "yes?"

"I love you, Francis."

The omega stared at him, an unreadably plain expression on his face. Before he could even begin to comprehend the words out of Arthur's mouth, more came tumbling out like vomit, "I don't know why I didn't tell you sooner because I've known for a while now. I think I was just scared. Scared that you'd reject me and…and I was a coward. Then I realised something. If I didn't take the chance and tell you how I felt, then there would be no chance at all that I could spend the rest of my life with you. And that terrified me more than any rejection ever could."

Francis looked at the alpha and slowly the unreadable expression gently melted into a soft smile, "oh Arthur," he sighed, a glint of something mischievous in his eye, "out of everyone in that office, I'm glad it was you that knocked me up."

"I…" Arthur's mouth fell open, "I pour my heart out to you and that's how you respond?"

Francis laughed.

"I'm sorry," he finally said, "I'm quite delirious."

Arthur didn't quite know what to say but before he could start spiralling inwardly Francis reached out and cupped a hand softly over his alpha’s cheek, "Arthur," his name had never sounded more at home than on the omega's tongue, "you do know that I love you too, non?"

Arthur sighed as he softly placed a hand over Francis' and couldn't help but give an exhausted chuckle, "I do now."