Archive of Our Own ^beta

The night was dark, cloudy. It was autumn, so it was neither very cold nor very warm. Today Zhongli had a lot of work, so he ended up doing his shopping late, in some 24/7 supermarket. He was really drowsy, the warm yellow light of street lanterns was making him sleepy. And, he just carried a few heavy bags of groceries, since he didn't find it worth it to move his car when the store was less than half a kilometer from the funeral parlor. He wanted to rest his head on the wheel, but he strictly commanded himself that he can't fall asleep here. People will think that he's homeless and he has to feed his lizard today. 

The man was just about to ride home, when suddenly, someone opened the door and quickly jumped inside. He reached into his pocket for his knife, sure that he's getting robbed, but nothing like that happened. The person, a young boy, just curled In the space between the front passenger seat and the console, he had big yellow eyes, an adorably round chin and a thick leathery collar around his neck. Omega collar. A stripe of hard leather, guarding the nape from unwanted bonding. 

"P-Please, hide me." he asked quietly. Zhongli noticed that he's bleeding from a deep cut in his cheek. 

Oh. 

His life until now was boring and tiresome. Work, more work, then dinner, sleep and work again. He will soon turn 25, his friends already have families, so they don't hang out so much anymore. He got a little scared, but somewhere on the back of his mind, a truly sinful thought appeared. 

Finally, something is happening.

"Sure. Here."  

He threw a dark blanket over him that he always kept on his back seat and then put one of his grocery bags on the top (the lightest one). From the outside, it will just look like the space is filled with bags. 

"Hey, you!" 

A mean-looking man approached the car and banged on the window. Zhongli exhaled and opened it just a little bit. 

"How can I help you, sir?" 

He really hoped that the guy wouldn't smell omega pheromones in the car. But, he seemed to be a beta. They don't have their noses half as sensitive to such a things. 

"Looking for… My kid. Not too tall, an omega, wears white shirt. He was running in this direction."

"You're chasing him?"

"Yea, this little shitling… I mean, I'm his father. He's a brat, he keeps escaping. I'm.. worried. So tell me where he went, quick."

Zhongli didn't believe a single word. 

"Sure, that way. Not sure if it was him, but it's always a clue. I hope he's alright and returns home soon." 

He didn't even say goodbye, just ran away in the direction that Zhongli pointed. 

"He's gone." 

The boy waited for a while more and then slowly took the bag and the blanket off himself. 

"Thank you… I will repay you!... " 

"No need, kid. Just tell me your address, I will give you a ride home." 

"I don't have one."

Oh. Actually… he looked kind of dirty and worn out, is he really homeless? But how old is he? 13? 14?

"So… you're homeless? I can take you to child servi-" 

"No! No no… everywhere but not there… I'm.. not homeless. I have a house I live in.. b-but it can hardly be called a home. I have a friend who will let me sleep over, so… I will leave."

"Child service can help you…"

"You know nothing about it."

"...At least let me treat your wound. I have a medical kit right below your seat."

He started wiping the cut clean with some alcohol. There was sand and dirt in it, like he fell over while escaping. Yes, most likely that. 

"Did this man do it to you?" 

"Y-Yes… I needed money, my school ID fell out of my pocket… he realized that I lied about my age…" 

Zhongli couldn't really understand everything as the boy was nervous and chaotic in his storytelling, but he let him speak. So, if he got it right, he lied that he's 16 to get a hook-up and when the guy learned that he's actually 14, he got scared and became aggressive. The boy's voice was so shaky and the story so chaotic but it seemed like that is what happened. 

"So he was not your father after all." 

"No. It was the first time we met. Thank you." 

"You're welcome. What is your name?" He asked, when he was jumping out of the car. 

"... Xiao." 

"Then, good luck Xiao."

Since then, Zhongli started noticing him. In the mornings, he was going to school, alone with an old worn out backpack. Sometimes a friend was with him, always the same beta guy with long blonde hair. In the evenings, when Zhongli was returning home, he was petting cats that sit on nearby fences, or running somewhere. Morning Xiao was a composed student, the evening Xiao was like a stray cat himself. But there were no interactions. It was not a big city, so running into him was not a really rare occasion, how he didn't notice him before? The cut on his cheek developed into a little scar, which was making Zhongli sorry for him. He was a beauty and did not deserve something like that. 

"This boy?" Ganyu, his former coworker, was truly surprised when Zhongli asked her about it. He didn't expect her to know much, but he at least hoped… and it turned out that as a secretary of the local authorities, she was familiar with his living situation. 

"Yes. I would say, I'm a little worried about him…"

"He's a delinquent. Not a bad person I think, but he's not safe to be around, I will just warn you. He was taken away from his family as a small kid and had been in 5 foster families since then. He can't last In one place very long, getting into trouble all the time."

So that's why he didn't want child service informed. He has already been there. 

"...I think he's a good person. Just in a bad environment."

"But don't let your kindness lead you. Or he might take your wallet."

"He seems to be an omega. I never heard about one being a delinquent…" 

"Childhood plays a bigger part in raising a person than the secondary gender, don't you think?"

Despite this conversation… Zhongli decided to help him. At first, he bought Xiao new shoes, as he noticed that his soles were detaching. He wanted to buy some fancy expensive ones so he could have something nice, but he remembered that Xiao is most likely living in an abusive family. They would ask who the hell he got them from, or even sell them. What a way of treating people. Taking kids away from their abusive biological parents, just to put them into abusive foster families. He ended up buying some cheap nameless brand. 

It started with shoes. Then, there were some school supplies like pretty pens, lunch boxes in the morning. It happened that his work was starting exactly at the same time that Xiao was starting school, and when he was finished, Zhongli had a lunch break. So every few days, he would either give him some money for food, or take him to a restaurant. Xiao was reluctant at first, "I'm not a beggar" he said. But after that, he started accepting the gifts. After some time, he started to react with enthusiasm, seeing Zhongli's car by his school's gate, jumping in and asking where they are going today. 

It was just a form of help, Zhongli prayed that it doesn't start any nasty rumors. An adult alpha regularly meets with omega barely above the age of consent. Xiao turned fifteen as they were meeting, so he's legal to lay now, but it would still be scandalous. 

What Ganyu said about him being a delinquent, let alone a thief was only a nasty rumor. Xiao was a very kind and delicate person.

However… Their little agreement came to a halt a few monthsb in, when the spring was in its full bloom. Zhongli invited Xiao to his place for the first time, just for a little while, to teach him some cooking, so he doesn't have to rely on his foster parents to have a tasty warm dish. It was his only intention in inviting him home. But when they entered, Xiao got on his knees on the floor, undid the belt of his school uniform and looked up at Zhongli, fear visible in his eyes. 

"So, we're here. D-Do as you please… " 

Million thoughts crossed his head at that moment. That position. That gesture… that…

"W-Wait, what are you doing? Xiao…"

"You helped me a huge lot. N-Now… Take your payment. There will be no better time and place…" 

Oh. Oh. 

"No way, Xiao! I would not do something like that. I don't want anything in return, please stop right now." 

Little omega got all red, realizing how badly he misunderstood. Of course, he was raised in an environment where nothing was free. And Zhongli taking him home was an obvious sign that he's about to repay the kindness, or, considering the amount of help, start repaying it.

"I'm s-sorry… I will go." 

"Xiao… I'm sorry that I shouted. Don't go, let's just not talk about it…."

But he took his backpack and left, with his face red as a tomato. On the next day, he started taking another route to school. Zhongli was still seeing him sometimes, but there was never a good time or opportunity to talk to him. And Xiao too, while seeing a familiar car, would change his direction or enter some building. Xiao was actively avoiding him and it hurts. 

And that went for another month. Zhongli was boiling inside, he grew attached. But, he wanted him to return himself. No way he's going to force himself on him… He was still giving him money and food through a friend that he often saw Xiao with, Aether. He understood his situation, probably even more than Zhongli did, so he happily helped to pass the gifts. He also let Zhongli in on a secret. 

Xiao gains mora by normal activities like walking dogs and doing shopping for elders, which Zhongli knew, but was also having sex for money from time to time (he thought that the situation in the parking lot was a one time thing). Poor kid…  

Zhongli even contacted Yanfei, another one of his friends. She said that it will not be hard to get him taken away from the foster family, since all there is needed is proof that he's being mistreated and the approval of city authorities. That wouldn't be hard to get either, since they both knew Ningguang in person. But… What would happen to him later? Liyue was never known for its good social service. Xiao can't be adopted out since his biological parents are still alive and refuse to let go of their custody. He can be taken away, but can't be legally adopted without their consent, that is their right as his parents. So he only has access to these temporary foster households that just take money for taking in multiple kids from orphanages that are in the same situation. He immediately asked Yanfei if it was possible for him to become such a person. He had his salary, he had two rooms to spare, he would give Xiao all he needed. They were meeting for almost half a year and were familiar enough. But, no. To become a foster parent, he would have to get married. A married couple, preferably of opposite gender was an absolute condition. 

What a circus. 

As the days went by, he was slowly slowly losing hope that Xiao would ever talk to him again. Perhaps his caretakers got to know that he's meeting an adult alpha and forbid them to meet? Well, probably any "parent" would. In addition to all that misery, when he returned home from another meeting with Yanfei, he noticed that his pet lizard took some very weird craps all over his enclosure, making a huge stinky mess.

"Really, Azh?! Just what in the world did you eat this time?" The lizard remained indifferent, turning his head away "I'm taking you to a vet tomorrow..." 

His friend didn't seem to pay any attention to these words, he just sat in the corner and made a grumpy face. 

"I know you don't like the vet, but there is no other way." 

And bless you Azhdaha for your diarrhea, because thanks to the vet visit, he got an opportunity to see Xiao again. He was sitting in the waiting room, when Aether entered with Xiao and a transport cage. His heart nearly turned in his chest when he noticed his little angel. He looked sad with something, perhaps it's about Aether's pet being sick? Or something is troubling him…? A big yellow cat looked out from the cage and hissed the moment he saw Zhongli and his lizard curled on his shoulder. 

"Dain, don't just hiss at people like that…. oh…hi"  Xiao mumbled out, noticing who the cat was hissing at. Good. Now they are trapped here together and there is an opportunity to talk. 

"Good to see you. How are you doing?" 

"It's fine… better actually. Thank you for your help… Anyway."

"If something was happening, you know my address and phone number… " 

Aether was looking at them concerned as they sat down. But they didn't talk more, because unfortunately, Zhongli got called into the office the moment Xiao opened his mouth to say something more. Ugh. 

Zhongli noticed something else. His natural omega scent was gone, suppressed by something that left an itchy feeling in his mouth. It's a special perfume, his omega coworkers used it when they were nearing their heat. It was definitely on him, because Aether's faint beta scent was still there. Why would he suppress his smell? Is he nearing heat? It would be his first, as he mentioned that he never had one. 

The vet prescribed some medicine and Zhongli spent the rest of his Saturday morning cleaning his enclosure. Now he should buy himself some dinner. He just got a rise, so maybe something more expensive today? When he locked Azhdaha in his cage so he wouldn't eat anything weird again, he made his way to the store. Maybe chicken? No… he had it pretty often. Seafood? Eww, no… some exotic fruit? Like lavender melon? Oh, and he should probably buy himself a razor, because his last one went dull, and he's not planning to grow a beard anytime soon. Some people encouraged him to do so, but he was sure that he would look like a gnome with one. With two lavender melons and a few other things in his basket, he entered the hygiene section. 

Xiao was standing on the opposite side of the alley, looking for something next to the shelf with stuff for women and male omegas. There were disposable plastic collars, heat suppressants, pads etc… There were not that many of them compared to the rest of the population, but enough to give them their own little section. He jumped in surprise when he heard footsteps, giving Zhongli a startled look. 

"You're going into heat?" He asked, not knowing any other way to start this conversation. 

"... No." he hid whatever he was buying behind his back. 

"It's no shame at all. And if something is troubling you, you can always ask. You know that I'm there for you." 

He nodded and quickly walked towards the exit. 

"Wait, Xiao!" 

Zhongli caught up with him and laid a hand on his shoulder, making him jump. 

"It's summer, Saturday afternoon. Why don't I treat you to some ice cream by the coast? Please, I missed you. Did I do something wrong?" 

"Please… I don't want to get you into this."

"Xiao, what is 'this' ?? What is going on? Please, tell me. Do you mean your heat?... "

"No, it's not about goddamn heats!" 

Zhongli stepped back surprised by the shout of the usually quiet boy and helplessly watched him run away, only making a quick stop to pay for the thing he took. The man was returning home even more puzzled. He gave some medicine to Azhdaha and then a couple of crickets. He was so nervous, that he forgot about the lavender melons, laying in the bag at the kitchen counter. He hadn't realized how much he cared for Xiao, until he seemed to be in danger. The thought was slowly growing in his head, and when the sun set, he decided. He's going out, he's going to find Xiao and drag it out of him. He might be in danger even now! He just pulled his shoes out, when someone knocked at the door. He realized he's sweating, who can it be? Not a good moment…. 

He opened the door to see… Xiao. He was standing there with his school backpack in one of his hands and a plastic bag with a few of his belongings in the other. His expression was the definition of misery. He never came here on his own before… 

"Xiao, thanks heavens, it's you… " 

"... Please, Zhongli…help me." 

So, he finally made the right decision. Zhongli pulled him inside, embracing him with one hand, while he used the other to close the door. Xiao dropped his bags and sobbed into his chest, the older man started slowly caressing his hair. 

"What is it, my angel? Tell me."

"I-I'm pregnant." 

It would take ages to describe all the questions and emotions that crossed Zhongli's mind all at once right now, the shock taking his breath away. 

"W-What? When, w-with who… Xiao did someone… hurt you?... Did someone force you to…" 

"Doesn't matter! Please, just… h-hide me." 

The man took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. 

"... Hide? I don't understand…" 

"P-Please, hide me! Just for a month or two… I beg you…"

"...How would that help you?..."

Xiao wiped his tears with his elbow and reached into his bag, looking for something. Finally, he pulled out a pregnancy test. So that's what he was buying. 

"So… you only learned today?..." 

"No… I have known for a week now." He mumbled miserably, looking at the plastic stick. "But this one is a new advanced one... it can tell with little accuracy how far along I am. I needed to know, I-I can't just go to a doctor…" 

"..." Zhongli took the stick in his hand and looked at the little table. It was saying 4-6 weeks. "Only a month and a half… s-so, you need me to give you money so you can get an abo-" 

"NO!" 

Zhongli jumped slightly, startled. He never heard Xiao scream like that before. 

"That's EXACTLY why I asked you to hide me! Abortion is legal until the third month… I-If the child service gets to know… T-They will force me to terminate. Please, hide me until it's too late! I won't let them take my baby away." 

Oh. Zhongli stared at him with his eyes open. He hated the idea of abortion itself, but he would never expect a fifteen year old omega with his life literally falling apart, caring so much about such a thing. Anyone in his situation would do everything to terminate the pregnancy as soon as possible. 

"And what if you return there with such a revelation, Xiao? What will happen to you two? They will force you to adopt the kid out… "

"I-I… will think of it when I get there…"

Xiao was fully crying now. Zhongli suddenly realized that he already fucked up. Instead of supporting him, he made his angel cry. 

"Alright… calm down… I will make you some tea, please, sit on the couch."

Zhingki quickly made his way to the kitchen and quickly prepared two cups of it. What a day… he expected everything but not that. He knew that Xiao likes copious amounts of sugar in his tea, because he was always throwing in at least 4 sugar cubes inside when they were having a snack together. When he entered the living room, the boy was sitting on the couch, his knees tucked under his chin. 

"Here. Drink it, you will feel better." 

There was a moment of silence, as Xiao tok a few sips. 

"...So you won't hide me? You probably think that I act childish… m-maybe I am… but…"

"No, Xiao. I actually respect it a lot. Not anyone would make such a decision, you're really brave. But how am I supposed to hide you? It's summer, so soon there will be no need to go to school, but your foster family… That practically means that I'm kidnapping you. People… will think things!..."

"No one will know if I stay here all the time… I don't have to leave."

They talked about it for at least two hours. They quite lost the feel of time. Zhongli prepared the guest room for him, promising to buy him some new stuff on Monday and they went to sleep. He had problems falling asleep on that day. When Monday came, he left Xiao alone in the apartment and headed out to get himself some coffee and cake. He promised to keep it to himself, but he couldn't. So lucky that there was someone he can trust with his life…

"...Oh heavens, that really is a difficult situation." Yanfei was looking at Zhongli with her eyes wide open "But…you're telling me the truth, Zhongli? The baby is not yours?" 

"Of course it's not! We never did such a thing." 

Despite raising his voice a little, he remained rather quiet, so no one in the room heard them. 

"Alright, fine… that's… i

I really don't know where to start. So, firstly… Xiao is right. The child service has a legal authority to force him to terminate the pregnancy. And to put the child up for adoption as soon as it's born."

"There must be a way around it… I don't want to see him hurt this way…" 

"Yes… and the second thing, he needs to disappear for two months. But how will he explain it? The investigation on his whereabouts might lead them to you. Even if Xiao admits that he was at your place of his own will, you can get up to three years in prison for hiding an underage boy. And an omega in addition. 

"... We just have to be careful. Luckily, the security cameras around my housing estate are not working for a few days because of some burned cables or whatever... They didn't record him entering the building. I just have to make sure he stays inside." 

"... If you're willing to take the risk." 

"Do you know how I can help him?"

"I will… find something. Now, you wanted to buy him some stuff, right? We can go together, I always had a better taste than you." She made a silly smile to relieve the atmosphere. It worked, making Zhongli smile fondly as well. 

He came back home with two bags of clothes, new sheets and a few decorations to make the plain guest room a little prettier. That's how it started. Instead of returning only to Azhdaha and the quiet empty flat, after work Zhongli would find his little angel and pet lizard cuddled on the couch, watching TV. He also learned to cook simple dishes, so he started surprising Zhongli with a warm dinner waiting for him after work. Xiao also quit using the perfume, which revealed why he used it in the first place. His natural scent changed. It was hard to describe, but it made him think of milk, clean laundry and mother's embrace. Extremely obvious nostalgic smell, signaling the beginning of a new life. It was also surrounded by bitterness, a smell full of longing and sadness. Zhongli did not recall feeling it before, but his alpha instincts were screaming: abandonment. It was the smell of an omega who needs his mate beside him, who needs the attention of an alpha to ensure the safety of their offspring. It filled him with sadness, Xiao refused to talk about the father. Probably one of his one night stands, it's likely that he will never learn who it was, unless he's hiding something. 

The tv announced him going missing, but it doesn't seem that he was seen anywhere near the apartment. At least they hoped so, but just in case, Zhongli prepared a small space in the back of his closet, that Xiao could hide in if anyone wanted to search the flat. He was using so many lavender bags in there, that the smell wouldn't be an issue. Zhongli was questioned by the police, he was often seen with Xiao and his classmates had to notice Xiao getting in his car when the classes ended. But they didn't search his home and Yanfei covered him, so he was out of suspicion. 

There was a little issue at first. Xiao was becoming more and more shameless. Walking around only in his underwear or towel, spreading his inviting fragrance of loneliness and need for touch and affection. Did Zhongli ever feel something towards Xiao? He was always sure that their relationship is platonic, but now he started questioning it. Wasn't he always attracted to him in denial? He was attractive. He was cute. And he needed warmth and touch. But Zhongli didn't want to violate him after he promised that he would not do anything sexual to him. He was calm and didn't consider Zhongli as a threat, despite him being an alpha, felt comfortable enough to walk half undressed around him. How would he dare to crush his trust? And especially after, at least it really seems so, someone violated him before. 

He was struggling to fall asleep, Xiao was there for three weeks already, but the scent of loneliness was as suffocating as the first time he felt it. He was also a little anxious. He made a kid go missing. His  ''family" is maybe not the best, but there surely is someone who misses him, who fears about his safety. Aether would probably be the one to cry his eyes out of worry, but Xiao informed him before. Footsteps broke him out from the thoughts. He pulled the blanket down, to see Xiao standing at the door, one hand gripping against the doorframe, the other holding tightly into the fabric of the oversized T-shirt he used as sleepwear. 

"Did something happen?..." 

"I-I feel weird…please, can I sleep with you?"

"... Sure. Go ahead." 

Xiao quickly sneaked under the blanket and made himself comfortable on the second pillow. Despite always sleeping alone (or with Azhdaha), Zhongli enjoyed having a double bed, just so he could rest in any position he wanted. Today, it finally served some important purpose. 

"Are you fine? Anything hurt?" 

The boy was giving an impression that something is unwell lately, but Zhongli didn't dare to ask. But now, he was too worried. 

"It's… it's from stress. I'm sorry. I just…" 

"Don't be sorry. It's okay to feel stressed in such a situation." 

He noticed that Xiao was holding his hand tight against his stomach. 

"... Does it hurt much?" 

"No…and what if it did? I can't go to the doctor anyway. Just let me calm down and it will pass…" 

Zhongli just pulled out an additional blanket from the drawer under his bed and covered Xiao with another one, to make sure that he's warm and they fell asleep like that. When he woke up, the boy was still there, hugging his face into the coiner of his covers. He looked peaceful and cozy, and that was the most important. Then he looked at his phone, to notice a message from Yanfei. 

"Let's meet at the lunch break. I think I figured it out."  

This morning seemed like eternity. Hu Tao was drowning him in paperwork, Ganyu visited them again to check something related to taxes, then some rich man came and needed three matching coffins for people who are still alive. Not an unusual thing, but they never got a request for THREE matching coffins at once. It seemed kind of childish, despite it being related to passing, it made Zhongli's mood significantly better.  So, the rest of the wait was not that bad. When Hu Tao let him go, he nearly ran to her house - they decided to not discuss it in a public place anymore. 

"So, how can I help him??" He asked as soon as Yanfei closed the door behind them, eager to start immediately. 

"Calm down, calm down… there is a way. But… You won't like it. It involves two laws."

"I'm all ears."

She laid a plate of microwaved mora meat in front of him and they started the most crucial part of the conversation.

"Xiao can't be adopted out, because his parents are adults and still hold custody of him that can't be taken away without their consent. We can use it… "

"...No way I'm entrusting Xiao's baby to people addicted to drugs who were beating him as a kid."

"No, I don't mean that Well, it would be easier if Xiao let us in on the secret of who the father is. But, we can do without it."

"Tell me. I can take everything… "

"Since you're an adult alpha, you can use this law to prevent Xiao's child from being adopted out." 

"Wait, but… I don't have any rights to decide about its fate… "

"But you can… gain them. There is a rule, that if both people certainly state that they are the parents, the genetic verification isn't necessary. You just have to go to the authorities and tell them that you're the father. Xiao will repeat it and they will be cooked. They can't jail you, since Xiao's is legal. They can't adopt the child out, because you, as an adult, have rights to decide about its fate. But, you have to take care of the kid, so you know. That's a huge responsibility. In that way, you will have to raise them as your own for at least four years before Xiao will start living on his own. How is his relationship with his biological parents?"

"They have near to no interactions. But they take him on a walk once a few months and they meet at the courts when they try to get him back."

"So they do care. That's good. With their permission on paper, you can apply for an early marriage once he turns 16." 

"Wait… doesn't he need to be 20 to get married?..." 

"He does, but there are exceptions made. Teen pregnancy is one of them. If you marry him, he will move in with you without these complicated foster family procedures. You can just get a divorce once he graduates high school and he will be free. That's the second option." 

She was right. He didn't quite like it. People will know. People will point their fingers at him, a nearly 25 years old dude who got a 15 year old omega pregnant. And then fucking divorced him after three years. It will leave his reputation ruined. And, people will be asking them to death about their lack of mating bond. These aren't usually made later than the wedding night, lack of mating bond after that is a sign of uncertainty about the relationship, or sexual liberty. 

But, he has to endure. Xiao is in a much tougher spot than him. And he loves Xiao. He was certain about it now. He loves him so much, so so much. He realized it even more today, when after waking up and looking at his peaceful sleeping face, he realized that the bitter smell of abandonment faded a little bit. That's just showing how much he trusted him. Doesn't matter if it is romantic or parental love. Maybe both. He can… he can endure all of it. 

"Should I talk about it with him personally?" She asked carefully, noticing how puzzled he looked. 

"No, I… I have to do it myself. Thank you, Yanfei."

He ate his meal, lunch break soon ended and he returned to work at the funeral parlor. He was returning home with a bitter feeling. Should he do it today? How to minimize the stress that the conversation will cause for the little omega? As far as he knew, the first trimester is when the pregnancy is the most fragile, and Xiao was already sore. It's hard not to notice the way he gasps and lays his hand on his stomach area when he feels pain. There can't be another reason for that behavior, since it's far too early for the first kicks. 

No… he was stressed because of the situation itself. The possible way out is what he needs now, to calm down. Zhongli made a few unnecessary changes to his way home, just to make it longer and prepare the words he's going to use. When he entered the apartment, he was welcomed by the pleasant smell of fried chicken. He also cleaned the floors. What did Zhongli do to deserve such an angel? 

"Hi, baby." Zhongli smiled, as he peeked into the kitchen to see him by the counter, placing food on the plate "Working hard, huh?" 

"No, it was actually a pretty lazy day. You are the one working hard here." 

"Don't overestimate me, I don't have that much work. The reason I return so late is that I need to be available all the time. Make sure you don't overwork yourself, okay?"

Suddenly, Xiao gripped his shoulders and pressed his face to his chest. 

"I'm only returning the favor. I wish you were here more. I really feel at home."

Home. 

"Xiao, listen. Don't be stressed, but… we need to talk."

"What is that, Zhongli?" 

"I found… a way. To let you both have a happy life."

"... There really is one? What is the catch?" 

"Let's.. eat first." 

Damn, he already fucked up. He should have told him the moment they sat down on the couch, but instead, the genius he is, he teased it and made him look like a bundle of insecurity the entire dinner. 

"So, Xiao…" He started. 

"...?'" 

Zhongli exhaled and then started quickly relating the conversation with Yanfei.

"I….can take it on my shoulders. If I register myself as the father of this child and you confirm it, they can stay with me. If you wish to live with me and the baby, I can apply for a permission to marry you once you turn 16." 

Oh shit. He said it all at once. He got so stressed, that he just spat it all out, without dosing the information. And he did it embarrassingly fast. 

Xiao nearly dropped his tea. 

"Y-You can't Zhongli! That's too much… you're not my family, you already helped me too much… I'm just a… kid you meet on the street. You can't do that much. That's… absurd. I mean!... You're far too kind!" 

"Xiao I… planned to adopt you anyway, but I couldn't because I'm not married. But I really wanted to. Consider it… my way to do it. And it's not set in stone, we can divorce as soon as you can provide for you both."

Xiao opened his mouth to protest again, but he got suddenly grabbed and pulled in for a hug, nearly spilling the tea again. They remained like that for a while. 

"Can I ask you something?..." 

"Go on, Xiao. It's about your future after all."

"... Do we have to divorce afterwards?" 

Zhongli backed out from the hug, with a puzzled expression. 

"... Why do you ask that, baby? Is something wrong?..." 

"B-Because… Why would I want to divorce a perfect alpha who was always there for me? I know what you're going to say! That I should find someone my age, blah blah blah.. but  'someone of my age' is not Zhongli."

He put the tea on the coffee table and gripped both of his hands, blushing furiously and turning his head to the side. 

"P-Please… be my mate, Zhongli."

Oh God, it's really happening. Did he just make a ten years younger omega propose to him? That situation was so absurd… But after the first shock passed…he just pulled him in for a kiss. A kiss turned into a make-out session, tongues pressing and twisting against each other, making obscene wet sounds. They obviously had a lot of tension between them that they weren't really aware of, at least not fully consciously. When they backed out for air, a thin line of spit connected them for a short while. 

"It's not a good time to mate you. But I will keep it in mind." 

Xiao smiled at it and nodded.

"I will wait." 

In this way, they ended up going to bed together again. Zhongli was so cozy cuddled to his little angel's side, that he considered taking a sick day tomorrow, so he can just stay here and drown him in affection. He didn't plan going further than kisses and cuddles for now, but… it's been a long time since he felt romantic interest. He didn't have his heart beating for another person ever since he lost Guizhong. And his alpha instincts were very eager to take the wheel. Even despite this bitter feeling somewhere in his guts, his instinct alarming him "It's not your child", he wanted all of Xiao and he would take it slowly, like you would unwrap a fragile gift. 

Xiao was laying on his side, doing something on the phone that Zhongli gave him (he abandoned his own in the forest before he arrived at the apartment, to leave a fake lead for police), so he was obviously not asleep. Zhongli embraced him from behind, making him squirm a little. 

"Baby… do you trust me?" 

"Of course I do. You are my alpha." 

"Then answer me honestly…" Zhongli pressed his hand flat against Xiao's stomach area. It was not expanding yet, but he could feel it getting sturdier, protecting the life inside. It was actually the first time he touched that place. The protectiveness made him gently squeeze at the soft shin, upper lip twitching, wanting to reveal his little sharp alpha fangs. " Who did it to you? " 

"Doesn't matter…" 

"It does. A lot." 

Xiao exhaled and laid his own hand on Zhongli's. 

"My… adoptive brother, Bosacius. I-I went into my first heat and he lost control over himself, it was his first time actually. I won't tell anyone, because he would be in so much trouble if someone found out… he regrets it a lot."

"Did you tell him?... "

"... Maybe when he's better. He's… really mentally unstable. He had much worse biological parents than I did. If he was to face the consequences… it would break him. He's… o-only thirteen…"

They didn't talk more, but remained in that position. The bitter smell of abandoned omega dispersed completely, leaving only the gentle fragrance of milk and childhood, undoubtedly a clear sign that he's fully accepted. They slowly drifted away to sleep. 

Zhongli couldn't bear the thought of letting go of him in a month. After that… he won't have him back for at least a year until all the formalities are finished. Does he really need to come back to the foster family? What if they cause him to miscarry? At the sole thought, anger filled his guts. Xiao is only his… 

In the morning, he felt so bitter leaving his omega alone again. He wanted to stay and spoil him rotten. 

"Take care of him." He ordered Azhdaha before he left. 

The lizard was indifferent as always, but Zhongli knew that he liked to snuggle with Xiao, or sit on his chest while watching TV. Because Xiao didn't have many more activities in an empty three-room apartment. Well, maybe also cooking and naps, a gaming console too… but even too much leisure time can bore you to death in big amounts. Zhongli stepped by the electronics store and bought some new video games on the lunch break. That's also when he decided to explain his plan to Hu Tao and Ganyu. He didn't want them to think things once the thing came out. Hu Tao wasn't the person to fire him for having a kid, but she would definitely not think about him the same way anymore. Telling her before was giving him an advantage. 

Their relationship remained relatively the same as the days went on. Except now they were sharing some good morning kisses and would cuddle more, when watching movies for example. In the night, they surprisingly were not sleeping together, that first night was an exception. But Zhongli didn't mind. For people at Xiao's age, sharing a bed is not something easy to commit to. He's in the middle of his puberty and needs his own space. Zhongli managed to catch him getting off one day, looking through the slight gap in the door that Xiao overlooked while closing. Panting in arousal, he was pressing the tip of his vibrating toothbrush against his privates, judging from the movements of his hand, he was also plunging inside with his fingers. Zhongli already started to come to terms with his sexual attraction towards the teenage boy, but on that day… He lost his composure. Now, his evenings consisted of stroking his cock, thinking about Xiao, what expressions and sounds would he make. Maybe he was not innocent, but for people at his age, sex is a big deal. And he was violated. Zhongli would not dare to make the first move on his own, but damn, it was hard. As the pregnancy progressed, his little thighs got even thicker and more delectable. His little omega breasts increased in volume. Even his adorable face fattened up a bit. 

When the date (that they established early, just for the peace of their minds) of letting Xiao go and miraculously reappear was nearing, Zhongli had one last mission. That conversation will decide the whole future of their plan. Bosacius was a depressed kid, the kind to shut himself away in his room, barely capable of normal social interactions, as Xiao explained. 

So in conclusion, he is a little slow and very introverted. But not dumb. He will definitely connect the dots between Xiao's pregnancy and what happened during his heat. Aether brought him to his home, when his sister was on some training and parents were at work. No prying ears, maybe except Dain who was just making sure that Zhongli won't move a muscle in his house without being hissed at. It was hard to arrange, as Bosacius was homeschooled and it was hard to get him out without suspicion. Zhongli felt extremely nervous about this conversation. He was in a state of anxiety for a long while now, not only because of this meeting, but why the whole situation. Oh, he really wanted to bring good news today... 

"I've… seen you with Xiao a few times." he whispered quietly, Aether warned them that he's not good with strangers "Who are you?..." 

Despite being two years younger than Xiao, he was taller and much more massive than him (of course, still having a body of a child). Even without his alpha pheromones hanging in the air, Zhongli would probably have guessed his secondary gender just from the sight alone. There was no doubt why Xiao couldn't fight back on that day.

"I'm very close to Xiao. So I want to talk about him with you." 

"Xiao h-he… he escaped because of me… I'm so worried…" 

Zhongli felt a huge red flag. They barely started, and the boy was already on the edge of breaking down. Aether gripped his hand and massaged it with his thumb.

"Calm down… easy now. Yes… it is related to you, but not in the way you think. Please, let me explain."

He nodded miserably. 

"Xiao… you don't need to worry about him. He's in my home, hiding. He will be alright."

For another time, he must have chosen the wrong words, because fear and anger flashed in the purple eyes. 

"W-What?... Give him back! You can't keep him there, everyone is worried…" 

"Please, calm down, let him speak… " Aether was nervous too, tightening the grip of his hand. 

"You surely still think about what  happened." 

Zhongli was extremely sorry for him. Assaulting his adoptive sibling was not his fault. It was their caretakers guilty of lack of supervision, knowing that they have an alpha and omega going through puberty in their home at the same time. Yet he was the one to bear the guilt. 

"... H-How do you know?! Xiao promised that h-he… wouldn't tell anyone." The boy brought knees to his chest, tears staining his cheeks.

"He had to tell me. There was no other way. But I can help you keep it a secret. I only need your permission and the thing will never come up. It's not a blackmail, don't worry. I'm merely offering a solution to the problem…"

"What is the problem? It happened and I can't undo it! Just l-leave it and never speak of it again…" He looked away with mourning in his eyes, like they were two pools of purple water that were slowly leaking down on his cheeks and neck. 

Zhongli explained it as carefully and precisely as he could. There was some shouting from all three of them, but eventually, they reached understanding. 

"So if I confess about what happened, or anyone knows about it… will they give our baby away to some foreign people? Like I was?..." Bosacius wiped his tears and looked at Zhongli as serious as he could manage to be. 

"Yes. And if they learn about the pregnancy before the end of this month, they will kill them. That's why he's living in my home. Bosacius, I need your permission to carry on helping him. I will never decline your right to meet or hang out with your child. But let me take the full responsibility. Let me say that it's mine, so they can stay with their mother…" 

"...I have nothing against it, it's reasonable... So, you want Xiao to be your omega?"

"Do you?" 

"... I'm far from enough to deserve him. He's yours."

It went easier than he thought. He was returning home so relieved, that the sight of two policemen at his door caught him completely off guard, making his heart turn in his chest. He slowly approached them, trying his best to remain calm. They showed their documents, confirming that they're from the police. 

"Do you need something from me? I'm sorry, I just returned…"

"Yes. Good that you arrived sir. Can we go inside and talk?"

Oh gods… 

"Am I… accused of something?" 

"Inside."

He slowly opened the door, purposely turning the key a few more times than he should, pretending to be clumsy. It was an alarm sign they both agreed on. The flat was seemingly empty. There was some half-fried chicken on the pan, abandoned by Xiao who was most likely already in the closet. 

"I'm sorry… " Zhongli quickly explained "I was in the middle of making it when I remembered that I needed to leave to… do something… tea?" 

"There will be no need, can you show your documents?" 

He did, doing his absolute best to remain calm. He was awfully unsuccessful. 

"No need to be stressed." the other officer obviously noticed "No one is accusing you of anything, sir. We just need to ask some questions." 

Turned out that his neighbor's cat got beaten up by some local little shits and they were curious if he saw anything. He didn't, he saw the cat laying in the parking lot yesterday, but he thought that he just fell asleep on the road, like he sometimes does. He didn't know that the cat needed help, it was too dark to see the blood. He must visit the owner later… she's not rich, she might need financial help with the vet. 

"If that's everything you know sir, we will leave. Thanks for the cooperation." 

Just when they got up, something fell down in Xiao's room. They immediately looked into the direction and then at Zhongli. His heart nearly stopped. To his relief, before he came up with some messy excuse, the door slightly opened and Azhdaha peeked out. 

"Oh, I forgot to mention that I have a son." Zhongli decided to joke and forced a chuckle, to relieve his nerves. 

Policemen laughed too, asked about his name and if he's trained since Zhongli lets him roam freely around the flat. Then, they got a call that they are needed somewhere else and left in a hurry. After locking the door, Zhongli hit his back against the door and sat down on the carpet. It was too close. After a few minutes, he started to calm down. Xiao opened the door of his bedroom, clutching his stomach with one of his hands.

"I got scared…"

Zhongli exhaled loudly. 

"Me too… oh gods…if one of them was an alpha, he would realize that I'm not living alone."

"There is…only a week left… Zhongli?!"

Xiao gasped when his alpha hugged him tightly, still on his knees, his face pressed somewhere between his chest and tummy. 

"I don't want to let go of you. Never. The thought of you leaving for many months makes me want to cry." 

"Z-Zhongli… " 

"...Bosacius agreed to let go of his fatherhood." 

They spent the rest of their free day playing video games and had some toffee cake for dinner. Surprisingly, when Zhongli was already in his bed, scrolling his phone with Azhdaha laying on his chest, Xiao peeked into the room. He had a t-shirt he must have borrowed from his laundry and nothing else on himself. If he had underwear, it was just panties.

"Did something happen?... " Zhongli asked nervously. 

"Can I sleep here today? I got stressed…my stomach is hurting again."

"Sure baby, come here."

They snuggled together. Xiao was usually tough, but his omega instincts softened him. It was not something to be avoided, even the most independent and dominant omegas get soft and depend on their alpha a lot when carrying. That's how nature works. Zhongli was thankful to the heavens that he happened to be an alpha, if he was a beta, he wouldn't be able to soothe him with his scent as well as he's capable of now. The boy hummed in his arms. 

"I liked sleeping with you a lot." He confessed shyly. 

"You can come here whenever you want to. Even every night if you wish to." 

"C-Can I?! Really?"

Zhongli laughed at his surprised expression. 

"Of course. You're my omega, how can I decline? I would love to spend more nights with my little angel."

Shit. Now he will grow even more attached. 

"I would... too. Gladly. Zhonglii?" 

"Yes, my songbird?" 

"Do you… find me attractive? Despite me being younger than you?" 

"Of course. You're my type, little and delicate like a woman. You remind me of a fiance I once had." 

"Huh?...Did you two break up?"

"I will… tell you the story one day. Going back, you're beautiful and I love you so much."

"T-Then… what about we…"

"?...."

Xiao shyly lifted the edge of borrowed T-shirt, revealing that he had no underwear beneath. Zhongli hardly swallowed the spit that immediately gathered in his mouth. 

"X-Xiao… but you said you're hurt. Are you sure?"

"You don't want to?..." 

"I dreamed about it for ages. But I don't want to hurt you…"

"It's alright." He smiled shyly. "It hurts because I'm stressed. If you can make me relax, it will go away, right?" 

"Hah, you're so cute. I wish I could just take you to a doctor in moments like these, I would be at peace of mi…" 

Xiao silenced him by pulling him in for a kiss. Actually… maybe it's not that bad of an idea. He will just make sure to be gentle. He looked down again, delighted to notice that Xiao's little omega cock was already standing. Zhongli immediately took care of it, at first touching his thigh and met with a positive reaction, he started to pump the little thing with his hand. Omegas never had it big, not like they needed to, they barely produced any seed. Because the most important part is just behind… He pushed his finger into a wet slit just between his butthole and his male parts, earning a loud gasp. It felt different from Guizong's. Could it be because she was a beta? Or is it the pregnancy that made it so soft, almost as if it was swollen? There is no point in reminiscing now. His sweatpants were not tight, so a very visible tent quickly formed. 

"What do you usually get off to?" Zhongli asked while undressing himself. 

"...Doujins?" 

"Oh. I see, we have a common interest here." he chuckled and kissed his forehead. "I haven't read one in years, but I still have some in a box under my bed. Are you comfortable just laying like that?" 

"Yes, please…"  he looked aside. 

"I know that you're experienced, so it's weird to see you acting like a virgin." Zhongli admitted, placing hands on his hips. 

"It's not my first time, but… the first one with someone I love. I mean… I love Bosacius, but in a family way… you are my first crush, Zhongli… "

That turned his alpha instincts on even more. He didn't have any kind of lube, so he just spat on two of his fingers and thoughtfully stretched him open. Then, he put it in. Xiao was so cute. So small in his arms, petite and short even for an omega his age. He made sure to not press their bodies too tightly together, as little omega's stomach already started expanding a little, barely enough to notice, but Zhongli feared that he might accidentally press on it and cause pain. Laying Xiao on his back and holding his knees, he started making gentle love to him, grunting in delight at all the little sounds and clenches. He was not too tight, clearly a proof of him touching himself when Zhongli was not looking, but it was not making him less delightful. 

Azhdaha turned his back on them, as if he wanted to give them privacy.

Just when Zhongli was about to finish, he remembered something he read on the internet, while doing a little research on how to deal with Xiao in his state. He pulled out, painting. His omega whined in disappointment. 

"Z-Zhongli?! Why did you stop…"

"I remember reading somewhere that… *pant* Coming inside might cause the cervix to loosen. O-Or something like that…"

"You care about me so much… Then make yourself come…" He whispered. 

"You want me to come on you?" Zhongli grinned, suddenly feeling a little urge to tease. A little bit of dirty talk won't hurt, right? " Where exactly? " 

"M-My tits… please…" 

"Ooh? What a choice…" He smiled even more, stroking himself faster, slowly nearing his release. "Can't blame you. Your little omega teats are so cute. So swollen with milk. I can't wait to taste it…"

It seemed to turn Xiao on, because he whined quietly and started rubbing himself as well. 

"Does it excite you, Xiao? The thought of me nursing from you?"

"I-It's too early, you idiot…and it's not for you!..."

With a loud gasp, Zhongli came, covering his stomach and chest in thick white drops. Xiao smiled at it and reached with his hands, inviting. They kissed deeply and then pulled the covers over themselves. They should probably shower, but that might come later. He  looked down at his omega, who was panting lightly, gently touching the slight bump on his stomach with two fingers, as if to check if everything was fine. Zhongli took that opportunity to slide his hand over his. He never felt very confident touching Xiao's tummy. Not like he ever met any kind of resistance, but after all, it was not… his. He was not the one who made it happen and it was probably a very intimate thing to do. But his hesitation ceased after Xiao purred, a sound characteristic to a comfortable and relaxed omega. 

"Hey, Xiao." 

"Hm?"

"Do you like being pregnant?" 

Xiao looked up at him, truly surprised by the question. 

"Why do you ask?" 

"Curiosity." 

"It's… not an easy question. The morning sickness was awful and hard to hide. I'm also… afraid."

"Of childbirth?"

"That one too, and I fear the moment it starts being visible. But I also have a ridiculous little fear that… it might be twins or even more. I d-don't think I can handle more than one at the time…" 

"I will help you if that is the case. But the chances are super low, so try not stressing yourself too much…" 

"Mhm… you know… There are bad things about the whole thing. Many of them and it will get worse. But even if… I might not like the pregnancy as a physical state… It makes me feel that I'm not alone in this world anymore. I mean, worth the reward. In the end… I think I like it after all. And despite these discomforts… I can't wait to do it again, so you can have a piece of me too.  I feel… guilty for you taking care of us so well. We are not even related…I want to repay you."

"You being my wife is far more than enough."

"You know… when we are already mates, I want to bear another child. Yours this time…I can even get home schooled, so I can do it before I'm an adult."

"No need to rush." Zhongli said calmly, but to Xiao's satisfaction, didn't deny. Positioning himself behind his omega, he kissed the scar on his cheek and then nipped his collar with his teeth. "Mating bites are illegal before 18, right? What if someone in a foster family gets mated?" He asked out of pure curiosity.

"Their bond is chemically undone. You know, it's a shot to remove alpha's influence from the body." 

"But…it has side effects! That's inhumane. I thought that it's only meant for rape victims, or divorced couples…"

"...That's how it is. But I promise to let you bite me when we get married."

"Surely I will. Kicking already?" 

"Huh?... O! Oh, not really. I mean.. I sometimes think I felt something, but.. I might be imagining it. It's early" 

-

"I still feel bad. Becoming a boyfriend to someone who I wanted as my son just a few months ago. It feels so wrong, even if we're both happy." 

Yanfei looked at him with pity, drinking her shake.

"You allowed it. Bear consequences."

"I hope… you are not disgusted with me."

"I am not, but I'm really starting to think that you're the father."

"Hey! You too?" 

"Even if you're not, everyone will think you are if your little plan succeeded. Get used to it." She smiled and stuck her tongue out. 

"...You're right."

"How is he feeling? It concerns me that he has no medical care…" 

"I bought him some supplements. And a special pillow… whatever that thing does. He's not in any pain. He will go to a doctor as soon as he returns home…" 

"You guys are insane. It will come out sooner or later. What about security cameras at your place?" 

"I know a way to disable them. No one will link that." 

"I hope. I don't want to be visiting you in prison."

-

The days before his return home were its own thing. Zhongli would just drown Xiao in affection whenever he could to prevent him from feeling insecure. Cuddles, kisses and of course a few passionate nights together. But, a few days before the 'escape' they decided to refrain from physical contact, so Xiao doesn't carry his smell on him. If someone sensed it after all, they came up with an excuse, but it was still a little bit risky. Zhongli packed the stuff he bought for Xiao and left it at Ganyu's place in some closet (with her consent of course) so if his flat is searched, no one will realize that there was someone living with him. All perfectly planned. Hu Tao wanted to stay away for the sake of the reputation of her business, but wished them good, while Ganyu and Yanfei were really supportive, to the point that they even visited Zhongli a few times and made sure that his little mate is content and safe. 

They seemed to have no problem with them being in a relationship and the two were so grateful for that.

A few days after Xiao left, he of course got a… nice call from child service. They planned Xiao to be bold. Like "Where I was? On vacation bitches, leave me alone." He made up a story that he took a train ride to Mondstadt and just spent his holiday there. Then, after some pretended hesitation, he was supposed to tell them about his state. At first, refuse to say who the other parent is. Then, after a few days he would break and confess, all planned.

Zhongli NEVER in his life got this many death glares in one day. But Xiao is legal. They can't jail him for impregnating the little omega, but all of them definitely looked like they gladly would. Xiao's adoptive parents, child service workers. He quickly filled a paper that he's declaring the child as his and then watched Xiao sign it. Getting out of there was a huge relief. 

He was sitting on a bench in front of the building, to rest a little, when Xiao quickly approached him, smiling. 

"It worked! It really did…" 

"Yes, it did. I'm glad. Were you finally examined?"

"Yes, I was. It's a healthy little boy. I'm sure he will be a piece of sunshine" 

"Of course. I promise to love him as my own… "

"Xiao!" His older step sister was calling him from afar, clearly displeased by him talking with his lover. He quickly followed her, to not get himself in any more trouble. 

-

Xiao didn't return to school. He didn't want any attention around his pregnancy, which was getting hard to hide. Homeschooled he could barely meet with his alpha, because his caretakers were… hostile. They tried to report him to the police multiple times, just to listen over and over again that the boy has a right to see his boyfriend and the father of the child he carried, and as long as Zhongli doesn't hurt him, he can hang around.

The two owed Aether a big lot, because he was actively helping to arrange their meetings (and later, was helping Bosacius to see his son). There was no way to spend nights together, but little quickies in his car or short moments in his bed if they had more time was enough. Especially with Xiao becoming prettier and prettier with every passing month. Even when he was due soon and had problems moving around, Zhongli found a position comfortable for them, so he can cherish and please his omega. Little boy tried to steal Xiao's birthday. He wanted to come out exactly on the day his father turned sixteen, but didn't in the end, because oh, a stubborn kid he was, suddenly deciding that it's actually pretty nice inside and he's not going anywhere. He ended up coming out just a few minutes after midnight the next day.

Zhongli of course was there, he greeted his new step-son properly and straight from there he headed the ministry of civil affairs, to apply for that whole early marriage thing. At first it was only him and Xiao's child in his flat (and Azhdaha of course, but he seemed to not mind the new resident), sometimes with Yanfei or Ganyu or just some hired nanny coming, because Zhongli still had to work. But after they got the permission and after a quick private wedding, his little omega immediately moved in. At first, he wanted to give Xiao a chance to return to high school, but the day he went into heat in their home for the first time… The alpha couldn't resist his natural urges to breed . And, the feeling was mutual. Xiao's second son was this time a spitting image of Zhongli, making him a mother of two at the age of seventeen. But neither of them mind. Zhongli was extremely lucky to work for a company that offers luxurious funeral services after all - he can easily support two kids, despite his rather young age. Putting them in a daycare so Xiao can go to college one day was not a problem either, he would be a terrible husband to make his omega a stay at home wife at the age when he should be spreading his wings. He was anxious at first, that after their actual son arrives, Zhongli wouldn't love the older one as much; but it was not the case. 

People were saying things. Of course they were. But no one could take away their happiness. Maybe their family did not have the healthiest beginning, but no one was neglected. The only thing more they waited for is Xiao turning 18 when he can forever take his collar off and get properly bitten…. 

So they can be a happy family forever. Zhongli sometimes couldn't believe that he would ever find happiness in love again after he lost his previous girlfriend to a disease, but he did. There was nothing in the world that could beat waking up on his free day and seeing his omega laying beside him in bed, looking down at their son nursing from him. Then, realizing that Zhongli was awake, he lifted his head and smiled sleepily. 

"Morniiing" 

"Good morning to you as well, my angel." He eyed his swollen chest. "Breakfast for your husband?" 

"Pf! In your dreams."