Chapter Text
Everyone was happy, so ecstatic as the Royal Second Gender Counselor announced that their youngest Prince Baekhyun was going to be an omega based on his latest blood tests.
Happy, the King and Queen were so thrilled Baekhyun will finally break the 19 generations of alpha lineage in their family. Happy, Baekhyun couldn’t help but feel swayed by the emotion in the room as his legs swung forward and back while he held the armrests of the chair. Whatever the Counselor said must be good, he thought. His elder brother, Minseok, hugged him gently as if he would break, promising to take care of him well.
“It’s going to be a little scary at first to be different from us, but we will love you the same, Baekhyun. I’ll be here for you even if I’m an alpha, okay? You’re my brother first.” Minseok knelt before him, offering his guidance and protection to the innocent Prince. The 13-year old Baekhyun only smiled, half clueless about their reactions since he was still growing into his body but honored to be considered special.
What did it mean to be an omega? He knew they existed but has never met one, not outright probably. Stereotypically, omegas were pup bearers and homemakers for their partners. But it was highly regarded in the Royal Family. It meant prolonging the pure bloodline, having intuition unmatched by alphas, and wisdom that all Royals in the world wished to have. If it was rare for this Royal Family to have an omega in their bloodline, it was far more scarce in the world as there were only five omegas left in the Royal and Noble statuses.
The last omega from this Royal Family dated back in the middle ages, deeming him as one of the Greatest Rulers of this Royal Family and the world. He broke stereotypes of second gender roles, producing 11 alpha heirs while ending wars, building this nation, and introducing industrialization. Those were very big shoes to fill, but no pressure. Baekhyun was destined for great things in his own right.
Apart from that brief family history, Baekhyun knew nothing about omegas since his upbringing revolved around Alpha Etiquette, Dominance, Logic and Reasoning, Politics and Diplomacy, and Military Strategies. Even the palace staff were all alphas or betas to not cause harm to omegas. That was going to change now that there was a possibility for Baekhyun to present as an omega according to the prediction. Rules immediately changed to accommodate the future Omega Prince in the midst of an alpha household, protecting him from harm and stress at all costs.
The only flower that blossomed in a field of barley. The rose among all the thorns. The glass in the sea of rocks. These and many more titles and descriptions were thrown in the air as Baekhyun’s life changed following the prediction. His tutors and homeschooling syllabus became more omega-inclined as he learned Biology and Anatomy, Omega History, Health & Hygiene, Home Economics, Omega Etiquette, and Fashion. Baekhyun was taught how to protect himself through his clothing and hygiene because omegas’ bodies were sensitive to scents and touches. He had no complaints with the change, there was nothing to compare to anyway.
By the time Baekhyun was 15 years old, he mastered sitting straight and gentle conversing, relaxing his facial muscles to preserve his delicate and stunning features, smiling elegantly and moving with grace and poise. He got used to getting manicures and pedicures as often as the Queen, creating perfumes to train his nose with scents and choosing suppressants fit to his preferences, and even dancing to be more confident with his body.
The training was quite submissive and restrained compared to alpha-inclined lessons in general, this Baekhyun noted well. As the lessons went along, the future omega started to feel that maybe everyone was going slightly overboard with this omega thing. Since the predication happened, he heard more reprimands in a day than before. ‘Baekhyun-don’t-do-this’, ‘act with respect to the alphas around you’, and threats about no alpha wanting to be his mate in a day met his ears so often, he learned to let them pass in one ear, roll his eyes internally, and let those words out the other ear perfectly. Minseok chuckled as Baekhyun whined about how his tutors ordered him around like he was no Prince, subjecting him to obedience because that was how omegas should be.
Without a doubt, Baekhyun came from a strong line of alphas because of his confidence when asked to speak and express himself. He was cutthroat as his father and brother, but possessed a certain kind of gentleness and consideration from the Queen. Because he was training for his predicted presentation, this potential to be a great advocate was suppressed to accentuate his appearance and impressions. They may limit his voice, but his expressive eyes were innate. A simple arch of his beautiful brow was enough to shut anyone up. A turn of the corner of his lip was enough to indicate if he didn’t like something. If he gazes at you from head to toe quickly, get out of his sight. His silence and non-verbal communication became more intimidating than when he spoke because of the suppression.
So maybe Baekhyun’s regal beauty and elegance had some claws coming from his previous lessons, leaving traces of alpha instincts but it was no problem. Baekhyun will bite his tongue in front of many for the sake of the pristine and perfect image of an Omega Prince. If he wanted things to get done or share a piece of his mind, Minseok would always be there to listen and guide him.
“They’re just ensuring the best for you, Baekhyun. I’m quite jealous honestly,” Minseok hung his jacket on the rack while Baekhyun chose another coat to borrow from him. “All you have to do is sit there and everything will be given to you. You have people doing everything for you. You can choose to be carried around everywhere and it would be granted immediately. There’s definitely more respect to an omega than an alpha in this family.”
“But once the family’s full of omegas and an alpha’s born, their respect would sway. It’s the law of supply and demand. There’s more wolves with sticks than wolves who’d be willing to part their legs. As if I’ll ever choose just a random stick with a crown or money, it’s still my body.” Baekhyun sassed, still having some alpha spunk in him. Minseok clapped for his empowered brother, proud of his very high standards because that would be less work for him. “I don’t think I’m able to just sit and wait for something to be given to me, Minseok. I’ll be too bored to live.” He rolled his eyes, swaying Minseok to rethink his opinion and perception towards omegas.
“Well, you still came from a predominantly if not dominantly alpha family, so your preferences are valid and I 100% support you. But in any case, you look very pretty today, Baekhyun. Seeing someone tonight? You’re taking an awful amount of time choosing a coat from my wardrobe.” Minseok teased, helping him pick one for the nth time.
“My appearance is my only strength in their eyes, Minseok. I must always wear my armor since I’ve been trained to silence, to submission for whoever will be best for my pretty hand. Oh, did you smell my new perfume yet? I made this to mask my natural scent in case my body presents in public. My tutors said I’ve been reeking pungently, how rude of them to be so blunt in front of their Prince.” Baekhyun scoffed as Minseok stepped closer to take a whiff.
“It’s nice, fruity. It’s similar to your natural scent and no, you don’t have a pungent smell. Maybe they’re just sensitive to alphas’ scents, it’s still an alpha household after all. Are you feeling any changes yet? Feeling any slick down there?” Minseok asked out of concern because scents were vital in their anatomy. Baekhyun shook his head, whining about the delay of his presentation. Minseok presented when he turned 14 years old, shortly after his blood test results. Baekhyun was past presentation age and more, worrying him immensely. It wasn’t that he was an impatient person, but he preferred…progressive living. “Keep wearing your perfumes for your safety. Although, you’re really smelling fruity these days. It’s very sweet and enticing to alphas so just be mindful of that, okay?”
Baekhyun nodded and showed Minseok his final coat choice, asking permission if he could borrow it for an event tonight. Minseok would give anything to Baekhyun, doting him openly and praising his beauty.
Slowly, Baekhyun became comfortable in his own skin, having his own decisions in his clothes and the way he carried himself in public. He was allowed to appear in public on behalf of his family, showing his adorable, delicate, and stunning personality because he had to. While Minseok wore rich, dark colors and slightly heavy clothing, all of Baekhyun’s clothes were light-colored, flowy and sometimes thin.
He was an angel that fell on earth as the citizens who first saw him described, shining under the sunlight during a ribbon-cutting ceremony. They have seen Minseok several times in public and he was a stunner at first glance, but Baekhyun, truly angelic. When the young Prince smiled with his eyes, sparkles fell around him. Baekhyun’s dainty and slim fingers ran through his soft dark locks, accentuating the contrast of his hair color against his pale skin and pastel-colored silk shirt. It’s very obvious that his stylists loved dressing him on the lighter side of neutrals, sometimes in vibrant colors and pastels of cottons and tulles just to highlight his gorgeous features and soften them further for more appeal.
Prince Baekhyun was ushered to stand aside for the plaque awarding, his full hips and plump thighs flustering everyone who watched him move. He looked around with a kind smile, hands feeling his corseted midsection to subtly breathe. His stylists will hear an earful from him later for the tightness of his corset vest when he explicitly asked for a cumberband instead. But that was him, a stunning and pretty real-life doll that could rock any article of clothing.
His adorableness shone through when he smiled and giggled, warming hearts instantly with his cute eye smile and soft rosy cheeks. The citizens immediately fell in love with the young Prince and waited for him when the Royal Family had to make appearances. It was inevitable for more alphas to be in the crowd as some formed fanclubs to praise him. Baekhyun found it sweet but in the back of his mind, he was those fans fantasized about him. Minseok felt the same so he started attending events with Baekhyun to protect him.
Sometimes, Baekhyun’s cluelessness would come out, getting lost in the most impossible situations and it would make the nation and the world fall for him even more. Minseok would be there to hold his hand or wrap his arm around his brother’s slim waist, dragging him along like a toddler. The people ate up their differences as siblings with Minseok being the protective and dependable alpha big brother and sweet Baekhyun bringing out Minseok’s smile often through his radiance.
The famous royal brothers have graced magazine covers because of their alluring beauty and duality, being the ideal alpha-omega siblings of the century. Many seemed to forget that Baekhyun hasn’t presented officially, but everyone would cross that bridge when it happened. Minseok and Baekhyun’s latest magazine spread became a huge hit because of the role reversal concept; Baekhyun portrayed an elegant and fierce alpha and Minseok was the seductive and confident omega. Their Public Relations Office’s phones rang nonstop as the King and Queen’s friends offered ridiculous things just to have the two be married off for business and diplomatic deals.
No. The two Princes were not for sale nor for negotiation. The King and Queen could suggest but the brothers were going to choose who their hearts desired and it was final, sealed by a decree and respected by their parents.
Baekhyun grew slightly taller than Minseok during his puberty as his baby fat slowly disappeared, making him look more mature and ridiculously handsome. Everyone who looked in his way were left stunned, smitten, and more enchanted by his beauty as he matured. Even Minseok would fall victim into his own brother’s glow up, stuttering from time to time when Baekhyun asked a question or two or when they locked eyes for too long. If he was more active publicly, he would be more lethal to all alphas, Minseok thought.
Oftentimes, the Queen would dote Baekhyun, combing his hair by herself when they had downtimes, going shopping, and doing skincare together. They would talk about boys and gush over them while the King was gentler with Baekhyun, kinder and sweeter because they must take care of this precious gem. He would hold his hand when they had to appear in public together, shield him from cameras, and even feed him snacks if the event dragged on. Baekhyun didn’t know the true reasons and implications of their affection, but he trusted that his family would support him in everything whatever happens. Like Minseok promised him, they will love him the same.
But when he did things alone, even just walked into a room or simply walked around their home, he commanded with every step, exuding traces of alpha dominance he couldn’t change since it was instilled early in him. The underlying worry of his tutors reached the family, deeming Baekhyun to be too intimidating for an omega, leaning on Homme Fatale rather than Prince Charming. In Baekhyun’s defense (and this was discussed in front of his family too), alphas made up 99.9% of the royals at this point. If no alpha in the world could match his standards, the standards of their Royal Family and their nation, then it wasn’t Baekhyun’s fault. They all simply had to step up.
“If we’re done trying to convince me to lower my standards or myself for some alpha, may I be excused, Mom, Dad?” Baekhyun uncrossed his legs with so much attitude, the tutors trembled in their places because of the Prince’s bratty moments. His parents let him leave, concealing their smiles but their eyes showed their pride. Minseok was the only one unable to hold it in, chuckling to himself on the side as Baekhyun rose and strutted out of the room, muttering that he was late for his dermatologist appointment because of some nonsense concern.
By the time Baekhyun turned 17 years old and able to look after his own body, he was enrolled into a private elite academy in their nation, the best one for Royals worldwide, and the same one Minseok was currently attending. Baekhyun wore his thin ribbon tie then his pine green blazer, smiling at his reflection before seeing Minseok behind him wearing the same thing but with a black necktie.
“My little brother’s finally coming with me to campus and you still look like a sweetheart in this rigid uniform. I’m getting emotional with how fast you grow up, Baekhyun.” Minseok held Baekhyun’s shoulders and looked at him from head to toe.
“You’re worse than Dad.” Baekhyun nudged him gently, wondering why Minseok had worries in his eyes. “What’s wrong?”
“Nothing. Well, maybe something. I’m just worried the other students will try and take advantage of you for being an omega. Like you said, 99.9% of royals are alphas. As far as I know, less than 15 omegas are enrolled this year with 53 alphas and 24 betas. This is not just a local academy, Baekhyun. Elites worldwide enroll here too. So call me right away if anything happens, okay? I’ll run out of class to get to you any time.” Minseok reminded him protectively as he fixed his blazer gently.
“I may have exaggerated that 99.9%. It’s only 97.8%.” Baekhyun corrected himself, showing he had the brains to match his pretty face. To this, Minseok relaxed because his brother wasn’t like most omegas. How could he forget? “I promise to call you but don’t worry too much, I know how to protect myself. You do your thing, Mr. Student Council Vice President. I’ll lay low.” Baekhyun fixed Minseok’s blazer too, straightening his necktie. “Besides, I heard Jongdae enrolled here too. I haven’t seen him in years, Minseok! I hope he hasn’t forgotten me.” Baekhyun pouted as he remembered his dearest childhood friend, Lord Jongdae from the Eastern region. They played a lot as kids, especially when Jongdae’s family did courtesy visits. He became Baekhyun’s first and only friend, instantly clicking because they were the same age.
“How could I forget My Royal Highness Prince Baekhyunnie?” A mature, bright voice boomed in the room as the brothers looked at the door. There was Kim Jongdae, all grown up with his baby fat gone too, thinner and slender than ever, taller and more handsome in the same uniform the brothers wore. His eyes were still kind as Baekhyun remembered, still warm and welcoming that Baekhyun ran to hug him after being apart for six years. “Whoa, someone missed me.” Jongdae hugged Baekhyun back, rubbing his back and patting his butt goodnaturedly.
“Is this a dream? What are you doing here? How have you been?” Baekhyun held Jongdae’s hands, still in disbelief his best friend returned. They lost contact after some time since Jongdae lived in two countries for six years for his parents were both ambassadors to their nation. He would fly in and out one summer after another just to spend time with both of them. Since he was of age to live alone in their homeland, they sent him back to attend the best private elite academy on the planet…with Baekhyun, of course.
“What do you mean by that? Of course this is real, open your eyes! We’re together again, Baekhyun! Minseok, didn’t you tell him?” Jongdae looked at the elder Prince who just shrugged and smiled, purposely not mentioning it to surprise Baekhyun. “I’m happy to see you again, Baekhyun. I heard the news, congratulations on your future presentation!” Jongdae chuckled adorably as Baekhyun mimicked him, swaying their held hands side to side. To that precious sound, Minseok sighed as he realized that he was going to have a hard time watching over these two beauties.
“I haven’t presented, that was only a prediction from my blood results. But it’s more or less secured at this point, right?” Baekhyun explained.
“Oh, well yeah, it’s more or less accurate. Don’t worry, when you present, I will be here for you, Baekhyun. Omega to omega,” Jongdae stated proudly, stunning the young Prince.
“Y-You’re an omega? Wow, we must really be soulmates.” Baekhyun relaxed, relieved to have a friend who would share the same sentiments as him.
“Of course, we are! We, omegas, have to stick together.” Jongdae looped his arms around Baekhyun’s, looking around for his dear friend’s bag. “Minseok, be a dear alpha for us and carry our bags, please?”
“You’re omegas, not spoiled brats.” Minseok chastised but still got Baekhyun’s bag on the sofa and got the satchel from Jongdae’s shoulder because he was, indeed, a dear alpha. He left first, hearing the two friends giggling, squealing, and talking over each other excitedly as he smiled and shook his head. When these two were in a room, it was always loud yet lively. What a great energy to be surrounded with.
—👑—
Baekhyun and Jongdae were stuck at the hip as they explored school life, learning together since it felt so much better than learning alone. Jongdae wasn’t new to schools since he transferred campuses often, but Baekhyun saw everything with fresh eyes, especially the cafeteria where all students usually gathered. Classes were divided by second gender for their safety, so the rowdiness, pheromones, and flirting happened during lunch breaks and free periods.
Jongdae pulled Baekhyun to the open lawn just outside of the cafeteria, telling him to hurry because he was hungry. Heads turned instantly upon seeing the two new faces, gazes following them to the buffet…as if they were the buffet. Who was that? Who were they? Some students in the same class as Baekhyun and Jongdae gossiped about their names, making them popular in a span of minutes. Minseok detached from his alpha friends and walked over to Baekhyun and Jongdae, making many curious. The eldest Prince of the nation truly had the guts of an alpha to approach two omegas, wow. Then again, he was the Student Council Vice President, it was his job to be friendly and welcoming to all students.
Adding to everyone’s surprise, Minseok carried both Baekhyun and Jongdae’s meal trays, escorting them to his table with his friends. Those nearby heard Minseok introducing the two of them to the Student Council members aka the Alpha Heartthrob Squad. Jongdae waved at them with two hands, smiling brightly and adorably while Baekhyun stepped closer to Minseok’s side, feeling shy to be in front of a group of alpha strangers. Seeing the famous rumored omega of the nation in the flesh, it made the squad take a step back. The bar was placed up in the sky just because Minseok was being Baekhyun’s brother, the respected Student Council Vice President and future King of this nation.
Meeting three of the six Student Council members at the table, the Secretary, the Public Relations Officer, and the Assistant Chief of Staff was comforting for the omegas after a while. Minseok let them eat there comfortably, scanning the room subtly to warn these two about who to stay away from. Baekhyun also found out that there was no Student Council President since that would be the Headmaster, looking at his brother to explain himself why Minseok didn’t disclose that to his family. Their parents would brag again and he didn’t want that, so Baekhyun kept this truth a secret in exchange for walking him and Jongdae to the Omegas’ Locker Room. Easy.
“Where’s the other two members?” Jongdae asked Minseok as he looked around the cafeteria with intrigue.
“Sehun! Over here,” Right on time, the Chief of Staff entered the cafeteria. His aura was different, obviously an alpha, but something about him made Baekhyun and Jongdae blush instantly. Was it because Prince Sehun was tall with fair skin, had a face sculpted by the gods, had modelesque broad shoulders and a body of a swimmer because…he was a swimmer? Yes, maybe that. Giggles and swoons always followed him because wow, hot damn, that was Prince Sehun Oh of Taiwan.
Sehun bumped fists with his council mates, eyeing the two blushing pretty faces gawking at him. Minseok introduced them quickly, watching Sehun’s next actions and words. “Hi,” Sehun said shyly because, well, he was shy around omegas in general. That made him much more attractive. Baekhyun stood politely and bowed, introducing himself as Minseok’s younger brother yet Jongdae was still glued to the bench, stunned by the handsomeness before him.
“He’s Jongdae, my best friend. Excuse his reaction.” Baekhyun saved, closing Jongdae’s mouth quickly before giggling adorably to charm Sehun. Sehun just nodded and talked to the Secretary about something, leaving as soon as he came. Minseok slid his water bottle to his brother, snickering at the blush on his cheeks.
“Does he reach your high standards, Prince Baekhyun?” Minseok whispered to ear, teasing his brother openly. “Wait until you see the Treasurer.”
“There’s more of them? Minseok, I quit. I can’t focus with too many hot alphas around me.” Jongdae found his tongue, amusing the other alphas around the table. “I like that alpha over there already, that one too, even Mr. PRO here, even you Minseok, it’s too much. You’re all too much, I’m getting stressed.” Jongdae rambled as he kept filling his mouth with food to stop talking. Baekhyun kept his head down and ate silently, feeling quite conscious with the stares around him because he felt like a prey. He held Minseok’s hand under the table, eyes begging him to take them away soon.
Thanks to Minseok’s protection, Baekhyun and Jongdae got back to class safely, unbothered by the pheromones that reeked around them. Honestly, the experience made Jongdae anxious. He wasn’t used to the gazes even if he knew they weren’t for him. Maybe agreeing to Minseok’s favor of looking after Baekhyun was a more daunting task than he realized. Thankfully, Minseok found them. But he wouldn’t always be there for the two and they knew that.
In Physical Education, the teacher asked them to pair up for partners’ yoga. As omegas, they must be flexible and relaxed for their partners before intercourse and during pregnancy, so this was offered to omegas only, regardless of their year level. Jongdae immediately hugged Baekhyun beside him, claiming ownership like an untamed wolf as sighs and whines erupted when Baekhyun hugged Jongdae back, snickering at the attention. He wasn’t clueless or oblivious to them at all, he just chose to ignore it.
Jongdae unrolled the mat and let Baekhyun lie down first, both listening to the instructions and looking at the pose demonstrated. The first one was the Cat Pose which Baekhyun did easily. He moved aside and let Jongdae have his turn, brows rising when his best friend arched his back suggestively while doing so, like he had experience in presenting in bed. The whistle startled the omega class as their teacher screamed at students peeking by the door window, alpha students to be specific, to leave. Baekhyun dove behind Jongdae to cover his hips, startling Jongdae further because he got the hint. Those alphas were looking at his body.
“Baekhyun, it’s fine. Just ignore them. Did I do the pose right?” Jongdae didn’t want him to worry, so they just worked on the next pose, a Downward Dog. Baekhyun stood behind Jongdae this time to protect his modesty, scooting backwards to give Jongdae more room to showcase his flexibility. Jongdae felt Baekhyun’s hands on his tiny waist, tucking his shirt in his pants so it wouldn’t ride up. He stood and smiled at his best friend, grateful for his care and protection. Jongdae tucked Baekhyun’s shirt for him and gave him the mat to try out the next pose until they sweated buckets.
“Do not feel ashamed when you do these poses, omegas. This will help your hips expand to carry your pups. If you have mates, you can ask them to help you stretch your body, not have penetrative sex, understood? Let’s be responsible, omegas.” The teacher reminded them. “If you don’t have mates, you ask your fellow omegas to help you. There shouldn’t be any malice because we are all looking out for each other. Do not be afraid to explore together with omegas. It is far safer than playing with alphas and betas.”
Baekhyun and Jongdae went to their next class together silently, both thinking about the teacher’s advice. Baekhyun looked at Jongdae, wondering if he was okay after that incident by the door window. Jongdae said it nothing, just alphas being stupid. “It’s harassment, Jongdae. We can report them.” Baekhyun urged.
“I’m used to it, Baekhyun. Besides, they didn’t touch me or us. Let’s report when they touch us, hmmm?” Jongdae smiled bravely but he kept hugging himself since they left the locker room. Baekhyun saw tears glistening in his eyes, stopping him from walking to give him a hug. Jongdae hugged Baekhyun back and nuzzled his face to Baekhyun’s neck, finding comfort in his scent. Baekhyun finally saw what was behind Jongdae, behind them, all the alphas and betas looking at them with interest. Minseok’s protection finally made sense to Baekhyun, giving him more awareness that being an omega wasn’t easy in this society.
Jongdae thought it would be good to sign up in an Omegas’ Support Group on campus to have more friends and protection for him and Baekhyun. Baekhyun didn’t have any objections, going with Jongdae’s plans often since he still adjusted to school life. So every Thursday afternoon, they would attend OSG and make friends with the 11 other students there, feeling very comfortable to be around fellow omegas.
Baekhyun became more confident and friendly, showing his true radiance to many. Jongdae would always be beside him, being the more confident one and encouraging Baekhyun to speak up too. This was against what he learned with his tutors, finding it refreshing. Eventually, they had beta and alpha friends too, pleasing Minseok who watched them from afar.
“Oh dear Baekhyun, hide me. Hide me!” Jongdae panicked when they walked the halls of the buildings during free period. Baekhyun wondered what happened, seeing Sehun coming their way. He stood still while Jongdae hid behind him embarrassingly, meeting the alpha’s passive eyes, who also gave a discreet nod in acknowledgement. Baekhyun nodded back politely despite knowing each other’s name only, aware that Sehun was very shy around omegas. Jongdae peeked over Baekhyun’s shoulder when Sehun passed by, leaning on the lockers with a dramatic sigh.
“What was that about? Are you serious with your crush on him?” Baekhyun asked but Sehun was only less than 10 steps away from them. The alpha looked over his shoulder after opening his locker door and Jongdae slapped his hand over Baekhyun’s mouth, dragging him away to hide his blushing.
Baekhyun kept teasing his best friend, finding it fun. “Baekhyun, enough. It’s just a silly crush.” Jongdae shrugged as he closed his locker door.
“You have too many crushes, Kim Jongdae. It’s only been a month since our first day here. Focus on your studies first.” Baekhyun flicked his finger on Jongdae’s forehead lightly.
“I’m not sorry for admiring alphas, Baekhyun. This school has too many of them and I’m sure they’re looking for omegas to take home to their families. I’m transferring next week, this isn’t good for my heart.” Jongdae quipped but Baekhyun took it seriously, begging Jongdae to stay with him. “There, there, my beautiful Prince, I won’t go anywhere.” He patted Baekhyun’s hair, tucking it behind his ear sweetly. To this, Baekhyun’s cheeks became apples, finding the gesture to be…romantic, flirtatious even. Thankfully, Jongdae already turned away when it happened.
What was this feeling? Baekhyun touched his stomach then his chest all day, confused with his rising body temperature and his urge to vomit. It just sat on the pit of his throat like a ticking bomb waiting to explode. For the nth time, he touched his stomach while walking and Jongdae finally noticed his series of actions. Jongdae nudged his elbow lightly, asking what was going on with him as Baekhyun flinched and masked his emotions with a sweet smile, asking if Jongdae needed a ride home. Minseok wouldn’t mind a detour, he thought.
Speaking of Minseok, the alpha called his brother over upon seeing him coming. Baekhyun ran like a lovely fairy across the hallway and adorably jumped in front of Minseok like an angel that just landed on earth. “Can you wait for five minutes? I’m just finishing something here.” Minseok whispered to his ear while an emergency Student Council meeting kept going. They didn’t have time to hurry to their room, so they just talked at the side of the hallway.
Baekhyun nodded and slid his request for them to drive Jongdae home. Minseok agreed since he didn’t want to be home right away either. Baekhyun noticed a new face in the circle, someone tall, extremely handsome and angelic with a great physique. The handsome guy’s warm round eyes locked with Baekhyun’s, calling for the young Prince’s blood to rush to his soft cheeks.
“Oh, when did Baekhyun get here? Baekhyunnie, hi!” The PRO greeted upon noticing him behind Minseok. “He hasn’t met Chanyeol yet, right? Chanyeol, that’s Minseok’s little brother, Baekhyun. Baekhyun, this is Chanyeol, our Treasurer.”
Indeed, this alpha was a treasure. Chanyeol bowed casually to acknowledge him but didn’t offer a hand for a shake. Instead, he placed his fist by his chin, elbow supported by his arm across his torso, nodding and listening to the discussion on budget. Baekhyun understood the gesture and got the subtle message of the ring around his finger clearly. The Treasurer was already mated, but he didn’t show it outright since it wasn’t common at their age. It was similar to teenage pregnancy in their society even if there were no pups involved.
Minseok told Baekhyun to walk around campus for now, asking him to come back after several minutes. So Baekhyun returned to Jongdae’s side, saying they were going to take him home after Minseok’s meeting. “Who was that tall guy? Their squad name really suits them, don’t you think? Should we choose a partner in that pool?” Jongdae wiggled his brows, flustering Baekhyun with his confidence.
“Kim Jongdae, calm your pheromones. We’re not yet in midterms but your list of crushes is longer than your lecture notes.” Baekhyun called him out, disapproving of his best friend’s excessive interest in alphas.
“Whoa, who got your knickers in a twist? Why are you so mad?” Jongdae pouted.
“I’m not mad.” Baekhyun was sure he wasn’t. He reflected on his tone and was sure he wasn’t mad. “I’m just saying.” Jongdae got behind Baekhyun and hugged him to ask for his anger to subside faster and forgive him. “I really am not mad, Jongdae.” Baekhyun removed Jongdae’s hand over his chest, bewildered by the rapid pounding in his ribcage.
“You are. Your brows are still furrowed.” Jongdae spoke with a baby voice, using his cuteness to melt Baekhyun’s anger away. Yes, Baekhyun’s eyebrows were furrowed but not because he was mad; he was so, so, so intrigued by his heart’s erratic response to Jongdae’s backhug. “Why are you even mad at me? Is it because of my list? I’m studying well, Your Highness.” Jongdae batted his lashes prettily.
“Don’t call me that here! What’s going on with you?” No Baekhyun, what’s wrong with you? Baekhyun chuckled to mask whatever he felt, repeating that he wasn’t mad, just concerned. He even faced Jongdae to prove it.
“What should I call you then, My Prince? So you can bestow your mercy and forgive me.” Jongdae placed his hands behind him and swayed his body side to side, batting his lashes innocently as Baekhyun’s heart just skipped a beat.
“Um, just my name.” Baekhyun scratched the back of his head awkwardly, avoiding the omega’s gaze. “I like it when you call me by my name. It’s…comfortable.” He confessed softly, so baffled by his sudden sheepishness.
“Okay, Baekhyun.” Jongdae said in a brighter tone. “I like your name too. Like how you call me just Jongdae. It’s…sweet and…personal.” Cue the sweet giggle that almost made Baekhyun sigh dreamily. But why? “Oooh, vending machine!” The omega walked past Baekhyun, announcing that he was going to buy him a drink as a peace offering and gift for giving him a ride home.
“What are you apologizing for again?” Baekhyun followed him, forgetting why they bickered about forgiveness.
“Actually, I don’t remember either.” Jongdae laughed and inserted his spare change in the slot. “Pick anything you want. I’m feeling rich today.” He shook his coin pouch, amusing Baekhyun with his sparkly eyes. “What would Minseok like?” Jongdae thought with his finger tapping his lips, thinking hard for some reason.
“Why do you care about that? Just get him anything.” Baekhyun looked at the selection, thinking of getting a soda. Jongdae lifted his hand and rubbed the space between Baekhyun’s pretty eyebrows to smoothen the wrinkles. Baekhyun looked at him, wondering what he was doing now.
“You’re getting mad again.” Jongdae mumbled softly as if he heard Baekhyun’s silent question. How could Jongdae sense that when Baekhyun didn’t even know he felt that way? “Can I buy Minseok a drink too? You’re both giving me a ride home so it's the least I can do.” Jongdae explained instantly, not questioning Baekhyun’s reactions for some reason. Baekhyun blinked and chose a drink quietly, ashamed of his lack of control over his emotions. “You can get two drinks. It can be our secret.” Jongdae whispered to his ear and winked as if they were doing something illegal.
“I’m okay with this, thanks.” Baekhyun got the soda from the pickup box and walked away slowly while wiping the bottle to keep himself busy. He failed to notice Jongdae’s proud yet demure smile for him that had a hint of giddiness as he bought the same drink as Baekhyun and chose sparkling water for Minseok.
“Can you open this for me, Baekhyun?” Jongdae handed him a soda bottle while he placed the sparkling water in his satchel. Baekhyun eyed the bottle that went in his bag and controlled the smile that was about to appear, opening Jongdae’s soda bottle easily. The omega still saw the slight smile, asking what’s so funny now, but Baekhyun said it was nothing. “Come on, tell me. Is there something on my face?” Jongdae worried, taking small sips of soda while Baekhyun’s eyes scanned his face.
“No, nothing’s on your face. You’re still very pretty, prettier than the sunset.” Baekhyun tilted his head to the view of the sky, pleasing the omega.
This time, it was Jongdae’s heart that skipped a beat as he tried to make sense of Baekhyun’s compliment. He felt so warm and touched, flustered yet happy to hear such sweet words.
“Let’s go. Minseok might be done with his meeting.” Baekhyun walked first and cleared his throat, hoping his heart would calm down as he mentally scolded himself for being so cheesy.
Jongdae looked at his bottle he drank from with a soft smile on his lips, realizing it was Baekhyun’s. He looked at the bottle in Baekhyun’s hand and closed his eyes, slapping his cheeks to pull himself together. The thought of Baekhyun meaning something more in his words seemed too ridiculous for Jongdae, because his best friend was going to be an omega and not an alpha. He had standards, a dream type of partner that must be his happy ending. But living the rest of his life with an omega didn’t sound so bad either. Jongdae shook the thought off of his tired brain and followed the Prince silently, running after him to loop their arms together. Like newlyweds. Jongdae looked at Baekhyun and Baekhyun looked at him too, arching his perfect eyebrow. This woke the omega, wondering when he started seeing Baekhyun this way, and did Baekhyun feel the same way for him?
In the car, Baekhyun took the front seat so Minseok and Jongdae were in the back. Jongdae gave Minseok the sparkling water, thanking him for the ride. Minseok sat behind the driver, so he saw Baekhyun’s phone screen with the selfie cam on. He looked out the window to hide his snickers, knowing what his brother was doing. Baekhyun was spying on them but why? What for?
“Baekhyun,” Minseok called his attention, causing the young Prince to flinch and drop his phone on his lap. “Next time, I'll take the front seat, okay?”
“Huh? Ah, okay.” Baekhyun sank in the seat, embarrassed he got caught. Then there was Jongdae, oblivious to all of it.
Minseok glanced at Jongdae, tilting his head slightly to see his face better. When the omega visited their house several weeks ago, he didn’t know what to expect. The last time they saw each other, neither of them presented yet. So when Minseok laid eyes on the matured boy once again, he knew they had changed. Jongdae stepped back when Minseok attempted to hug him, lowering his head because of their second genders. Minseok got the hint and a whiff, apologizing and stepping back courteously until their eyes met again.
That day, he asked Minseok to help him apply for the academy with a reason that he was ready to be with Baekhyun again. Minseok’s curiosity piqued with his reason, crossing his legs while he asked for elaboration. Jongdae said he was legal enough to live alone in their homeland and was tired of traveling all over the world, so he wanted to be grounded this time and think of his future. “What did that have to do with Baekhyun?” Minseok wondered.
“I haven’t seen him in years, Minseok, and you too. I guess I wanted to make it up to him after wasting so much time.” Jongdae explained. Minseok granted his request for an application and offered to process it himself, delighted to see the omega’s face light up upon hearing it. He added that Baekhyun would need a fellow omega friend on campus to help him adjust since he has been homeschooled ever since. That was when Minseok noticed the way Jongdae’s smile slightly faltered. And it was enough for him to know why Jongdae came that day.
Jongdae felt eyes on him, turning his head slowly until his eyes met Minseok’s. They smiled at the same time but Jongdae looked away first, lowering his head shyly while Minseok looked on. The driver saw the two in the back, snickering softly but not subtle enough for Baekhyun’s senses. The young Prince breathed in deeply, scenting the intention and the sweet awkwardness that confused him further. His fingernails dug in his palms, slowly getting uncomfortable and hot in his seat. Why? Baekhyun couldn’t understand why he felt like this all of a sudden.