Archive of Our Own

Nothing was right. Nothing has been right for Seungcheol lately and it's starting to frustrate him. Hoshi finally gave them a break after a few hours of practice. Everyone dispersed doing what they wanted, some of them went out for a toilet break, he saw Jeonghan and Seungkwan going for the water dispenser. He chose to sit at the corner of the room, away from everyone but immediately regretted sitting there. The practice room mirror in front of him reflected the most undesirable view.

Seungcheol scowled at his own reflection in the mirror. His clothes drenched with sweats sticking to his skin was giving him ick. It was bothering him the way it felt on his skin and also in addition to that he was having a bad hair day. Most days he loves his long hair, unfortunately not today.

He overslept and somehow missed his obnoxious alarm. He had rushed out this morning and forgot to bring a hair tie. Now the hair was sticking out everywhere. He couldn't help staring at every flaw in him. Moreover the bright light of the room seemingly makes it more vivid. He was sure that if he were to rip his scent blocker his pheromones would be sour.

He blamed his hair for all the mistakes he made during practice. He flipped his hair furiously a few times, he hated the way it bounced every time he moved, blocking his views. Hoshi had side eyed him when he made the nth mistakes, thankfully he didn't stop the practice. Everyone was tired and would not appreciate another round of dance, the performance leader probably would scold him later though.

He was drowned in his own thoughts when he saw someone approaching him, already dreaded the impending interaction. There's a reason he chose to sit alone here instead of bundled up with the members like he usually would. Surely, Hoshi came to him; he thought the performance leader probably wanted to scold him for his subpar performance today.

“Hyung, are you okay?” he was taken back when he heard the question, the hint of concern didn't go unnoticed. 

“I'm fine,” he replied expectedly, like an automatic, not a single thought given.

He hated when the member tried to do small talk before cornering him for an intervention. He didn't need to be coaxed like a fragile child. When Hoshi took a step back as he frowned at him, he almost felt apologetic.

“Is something bothering you , hyung?” again the prying, Seungcheol could feel the annoyance brewing inside of him.

He swallowed his saliva, taking a deep breath to rein in his emotions, it's pointless if he got into an argument with the other leader. Moreover, they were in the middle of the practice room with a lot of staff. He was not in the mood of dealing with the gossiping if they fought in front of everyone.

“I said I am fine, Hoshi-yah,” despite trying hard not to snap at his member, he couldn't help the hostile tone seeping through his voice.

Hoshi stared at him, a retort at the tip of his tongue but before the younger could say anything, he walked away. Hastily, he grabbed his bag and walked out of the room. He couldn't bother holding the door and let it slam behind him, he needed to get away from there. The mix of pheromones, starting to give him a headache.

His pheromones subtly seeping through the scent blocker in spite wearing a stronger scent blocker these past few weeks; masking his pheromones from the members. They needed to wear a scent blocker when they were out in public. Most of them liked to wear a mild one when they were in the company building. It was easier for him too, to keep track of everyone because he could smell the subtle hint of their pheromones.

He was sure the other had noticed the lack of his scent lately but didn't say anything. He knew something was wrong when his mood fluctuated easily, and he knew it wasn't healthy for him to hide from his members. But the coping mechanism regardless of being unhealthy had given him time to think on his own. 

Nevertheless, it was fruitless as he hadn't figured out the problem. Though he knew sooner than later the member would start meddling and the fact Hoshi had started to approach him meant an intervention was on its way. The members were ruthless in their own way, he himself had done some meddling with other member's problems.

Being an omega had always been a battle of instinct for him. It would be easy to go to the members and let them smother him with their scents. It wouldn’t solve the problem but at least he would get a peace of mind for a while. Nonetheless, he had never asked such a favor, and would rather do things himself. His members were kind, good-willed kids, but he couldn't help feeling that he bothered them with something so trivial.

Honestly, having the member helping him through his heat was already enough for him. Even then he would push them away if he knew they had schedules, and only accepted it when he confirmed the member was free that day. Being an omega and an idol was a struggle he learnt how to maneuver. He thought he had mastered but this new anxiety brought a new set of insecurities he was not ready to face.

***

Back at the studio, everyone was frozen when the door slammed after Seungcheol walked out. The tension in the air was thick, they saw Seungcheol talking with Hoshi and noticed the second the omega getting agitated. Their attention now on their performance leader who still stood stiffly at the same spot Seungcheol left him, the alpha let out a loud sigh, “I tried, guys”

Hoshi walked away to sit on the floor, dejected that his attempt to talk with the leader failed, terribly so. Mingyu sat next to him, patting his thigh to comfort him. He smiled at the alpha before leaning his head on his broad shoulder.

The room was silent again, however everyone seemed to stop their activities, now visibly worried for the omega. Seungcheol has been having a hard time for a few weeks now. The omega might have thought he was able to hide it, but everyone noticed almost immediately.

The omega started to distance himself and made an effort to mask his scent. Seungcheol was always antsy and getting anstier day by day. At first, they tried giving Seungcheol a space, trusting the leader to come to one of them however, Seungcheol was getting worse the longer they let it on and seemed determined to hide whatever was bothering him from everyone.

Fortunately, or unfortunately for Seungcheol, being in a pack meant nothing really gets away from the member. Especially a pack like theirs where everyone was close-knitted, there would be a limit to how much can go unnoticed if not everyone then one of them would still be able to catch it. Seungcheol should know this but the fact that he still tried to hide it meant it was bigger than they thought.

“I will talk to him,” Wonwoo said, breaking the silence at last. 

The tension started to dissipate through the air and like the weight lifted off their shoulder when they heard that. Everyone knew how much Wonwoo meant to the omega despite the omega never saying anything. Everyone here witnessed how their relationship grew which was why they always made sure Wonwoo could be one of the members helping Seungcheol through his heat. For a year now Wonwoo was the only alpha to help Seungcheol go through his heat. They both danced around each other for years. Sometimes the members tried to interfere but Wonwoo made it clear that he didn't want anyone to meddle. Though everyone was itching to get in between them.

***

Since the day Seungcheol presented as omega Wonwoo had been someone he relied on. Wonwoo aside from Jeonghan and Jihoon, probably the only one who could read him like the back of his hand. Seungcheol was a late bloomer. After living as a beta for more than 20 years, he was presented as an omega in his 22nd year. 

The company was in chaos when they found out about it, though Seungcheol reassured them he will still be a good leader even as omega. Soon the company learned that Seungcheol meant what he said. Despite being an Omega he proved that he could be just as good a leader as before. The company had been using his subgender to promote their group and it had attracted a lot of attention even though he was not the first omega leader.

Regardless, everyday was a struggle for him at first. Seungcheol was guarded by his own standard as a leader, pushing himself to the limit. The members learned not to outwardly point it out, subtly offering help to ease the burden. Jihoon and Soonyoung had taken part of the production and management to let him rest more. But old habits die hard, the omega would still find an issue to analyze, to put as priority instead of himself.

Wonwoo was well aware of this. He definitely saw how the leader put down his needs to prioritize the group. Sometimes going as far as taking suppressant just to not disrupt the group's activities as much. The leader tends to forget about himself and Wonwoo took it upon himself to look after the leader. Again, everyone saw this and have commented on it. Though Wonwoo only said he just felt responsible as his member and roommate. If anyone pointed out that they were not roommates anymore, he just shrugged, “Habits,” as an excuse.

Wonwoo was deep in his thoughts as he searched the whole building for the omega, checking every room and bathroom. The alpha was getting anxious, worried when he found the omega in one of the recording rooms. The room was similar to Woozi's studio albeit smaller. He noticed immediately how the room was sound and scent proof, probably why it was the best place for Seungcheol's hideout, he thought.

“You found me,” Seungcheol mumbled softly. It would have flattered him if not for the disappointment so vividly painted on the omega's face. Like he expected no one could find him and let him mope for a few more hours. Not that Wonwoo wouldn't let him, he would leave the room and act like nothing happened if it meant the omega could rest. But he came here with a purpose and he hoped to deliver it.

“Seungcheol-ah,” Wonwoo started, careful as he sat beside the leader on the couch. He made sure he kept his distance, not touching the omega, not even their clothes. He was already considered lucky when the leader didn't chase him out the room the moment he opened the door and let him invade his space. Though the alpha wasn't going to push his luck today, he needed to talk to him.

“I'm fine,” Seungcheol said before Wonwoo could say anything. Wonwoo’s lip curled into a smile, endeared by the scowl on the omega’s face. The omega was certainly annoyed by the question.

“I know you are, I am not asking that though. I just want to give you this,” he replied, opening his hand toward the omega.

The omega glanced down at his hand, pouting as he mumbled his complaint even though Wonwoo couldn't hear it. The way his eyes widened as he saw the hair tie on his hand was adorable, Wonwoo couldn't help the smile growing on his face.

“Why do you have this?” the omega asked, taking the hair tie, already Wonwoo could see the omega putting his guard down. The sourness of his scent seemed to diminish, the scent now muted like it would with the scent blocker on. He bit his tongue to control his instinct to get close to the omega so he could detect his pheromones more.

“I saw you getting frustrated with your hair during practice and didn’t have a hair tie with you. Also I always bring a hair tie with me, just in case,” he replied honestly, staring down at the omega as he gathered his hair back, “I guess today it will get used.”

Wonwoo watched Seungcheol struggle to gather all of his hair to tie it back and this time he didn't hesitate. He took the tie from the omega and picked every loose strand as tidy as he could. Seungcheol flinched when his fingers brushed his ear, turned his head a little to make it easier for him. Again, endearingly the omega’s ear burned red and Wonwoo couldn’t help but chuckled and if the alpha had a fondest smile on his face no one needed to know.

“Pretty,” Wonwoo blurted out as Seungcheol turned back, his hair in a ponytail. Wonwoo marveled at the blush creeping on the omega’s cheek, for someone who loves compliments Seungcheol still shied away when it was given to him bluntly. Wonwoo could tell the omega felt much better when the hair was out of the way.

“Seungcheol-ah, you look pretty,” repeating himself, his alpha indeed proud at his action as the omega let out a soft giggle and smiled at him. His heart skipped a beat, the happiness surged within him at the omega who had a genuine smile on his face. He didn't know how he missed it after almost a week not seeing it.

He took his chance to tease the omega, comparing him with tomato with how red he was. Seungcheol retaliated by pushing him away, acted skittish with him. When Wonwoo started tickling him, Seungcheol loosened himself subconsciously laughing and leaning against the alpha.

Wonwoo stopped when the omega was breathless and his hair was messy again after their brawl. Wonwoo tidied his hair again, letting the omega lean on him as they both caught their breath on the couch. The room still as their laughter quietened down, Wonwoo treasured this moment the most with the omega. When they just sit with each other, not talking or doing anything together, they are just satisfied with each other's presence.

Wonwoo took his hand, intertwined their fingers as he cleared his throat. He would hate to disturb the omega's solace but he knew he had to bring up the topic. It was easier with their current position, “You can lean on us too, you know.”

Seungcheol tensed up at his words, seemingly taken back at the sudden confrontation. The omega scooted away from him, closing up. He felt like he made a mistake but decided to braze through. He held his hand tighter before Seungcheol had a chance to pull away, “let me finish first, then you can say whatever you want, okay?

He waited until the omega nodded then he continued, “something bothering you, I know. You might want to solve it yourself and I am not saying you have to share it with us, you don't have to. Everytime we asked if you were okay, we didn't expect anything. We just want you to know we are here if you need us. You can lean on our shoulders, you don't have to face it alone.”

Seungcheol was silent, looking down on his lap. Wonwoo grew anxious the longer the omega stayed quiet. He wanted to reach out to the omega though he knew any touch now would just overwhelm the omega, and the situation could escalate to the worst. Whatever he was thinking, he knew Seungcheol was considering it. So he waited. In the end the omega sighed, his fingers playing with the hem of his t-shirt. “I don’t want to talk about it,”

“Seungcheol-ah”

“You said I don't have to share it. I don't want to talk about it at all,” Seungcheol snapped, turning away from Wonwoo.

Wonwoo got up as soon as Seungcheol got up, who was ready to bolt. Wonwoo used his build to his advantage to block the omega, Seungcheol hissed and tried to push him away. Though Wonwoo might be more persistent than he let on. Seungcheol was guarded, pushing him away and became feral when he had no way to escape. Wonwoo honestly didn't know what to do. He held his hands up, took a step back as he tried to calm the omega down.

Wonwoo let out his calming pheromones, apologized for his intrusion. Thankfully, he took off his scent blocker when he was searching for the omega. He reached out for the omega in front of him. He saw the omega flinching when he held his hand but didn't push him away.

“Cheol, I'm sorry,” he pleaded, desperate already at the end of his wit to help the omega. He tugged his hands once, then pulled the omega into a hug. He could feel the omega tensed up even more in his arm, though he didn't let go of him.

“You don't have to say anything but please let us take care of you. You are our omega, our friend too. You deserve to be taken care of. I don't care about anything else, just… just let me take care of you,” he whispered.

Wonwoo brought one of his hands to the back of his head, while another rubbed his back soothingly. He let his fingers carding through his hair the way he knows will give comfort to the omega. they stayed like that for almost 10 minutes, the whole room already smelled like his pheromones. Then he felt arms circling around him, the omega in his arm started to loosen up a little. Nevertheless, he never stopped soothing the omega.

Wonwoo almost stopped breathing when Seungcheol leaned further to the crook of his neck, the omega nosing his scent gland. He could feel the omega inhaling his scent and Wonwoo tried harder to let out more of his pheromones. The omega was trembling like a leaf and truthfully his heart was breaking as he hugged Seungcheol. Not long after, he heard a sniff and the arms around him tightened. He was alarmed with worries when he felt tears rolled down his neck.

“I’m sorry,” he could hear the sound of his heart shattering at the shaky voice the omega let out. He pulled the omega tighter into the hug, tried to console the omega.

The omega's voice was soft just above a whisper when he continued, “Eveything just felt wrong, nothing worked. I just wanted to be a good leader but I was always tired, then my mood always changed. I get frustrated easily, I want to do something but before I could I lost interest,”

Wonwoo could feel the omega getting agitated again as he kept talking, he whispered, “shh it's okay Cheol-ah, it's okay”

“I hate this! Wonwoo, why me? Why do I have to be an omega, I just couldn't seem to get it right. My heat cycle is still irregular despite the doctor assured me it will be better. But it doesn't and it made me anxious,”

Wonwoo's heart shattered as he heard the omega rambling, he tightened the hug as if it was not tight enough before, guiding the omega’s head to his scent gland as he continued to let out soothing pheromones.

Seungcheol has opened up before how much he hates his heat cycle as it was irregular. He couldn't predict the timing and he always had to bring his suppressant with him just in case it happened when he was having a schedule. It stressed him out in the first few years after he presented as omega. Though he did learn how to overcome it. Now despite the cycle remaining irregular, he knew what to do when it happened.

However, the omega never showed any dislike of being an omega, he embraced his second gender like he was meant to be omega. In fact he had said multiple times that he loves being an omega. It caught him off guard to hear the omega second guessing his gender in a moment of frustration. His heartbeat fastened, trying to figure out what was happening to Seungcheol. Though he never stopped soothing the omega in his arm, whispering reassurance to his ear.

“Hey, it's okay, Cheol-ah. We have been through this, remember? I know you can handle it, even if you can't. I am here. I can help you, Cheol-ah. I will help you,” He comforted the omega as he cried on his shoulder.

“I'm sorry, Won. I don’t know what is wrong with me,” the omega’s voice broke, he was trembling as he wetted Wonwoo's t-shirt.

“Cheol-ah, let's stop here for now. You are just getting stressed like this, hmm,” he wanted to pull away and looked at the omega as he talked but the way the omega was holding him, he relented, “Let's just rest for now, okay. Let's go home, we didn't need to think about it, okay?”

Wonwoo let Seungcheol cry out some more on his shoulder. He moved them to the couch, without letting go of the hug. Seungcheol sat in between his legs as he continued to hug the omega. They stayed like that for almost an hour, Seungcheol had stopped crying 10 minutes ago but stayed on his chest, nose nuzzled on his gland. He could feel the omega breathed in his scent, filling his lungs. Seungcheol slowly sat up, pulling away from his body, and Wonwoo already missed the warmth. The omega wiped his face and tidied up his hair before he looked at Wonwoo.

“Can you not say anything about it to the others yet? I just not ready yet, let me figure it out first, I promise I will control my mood,”

Wonwoo wanted to say he shouldn't try to figure it out himself, there was a pack for a reason. They were supposed to help each other, every member of the pack, no one should deal with their problem alone. Though he knew that was not what Seungcheol wanted to hear, so he agreed, “Okay, I will not say anything to them, but let's go home for now. I will let Soonyoung know you don't need to continue practice,”

The way Wonwoo sternly said that, giving Seungcheol no chance to protest, he reluctantly nodded. He didn't need the omega to get another meltdown if he continued practicing. So that's what they did. Wonwoo thanked his old self for opting to drive himself to the company this morning as they didn't need to wait for the manager to send them home.

As soon as they arrived home, Wonwoo entered Seungcheol’s room and let him sit on the bed. He put their bags on his pc table, across the bed and went to the closet taking two sets of clothes. Seumgcheol watched Wonwoo move around his room, got the bathroom ready for him.

Wonwoo let Seungcheol take the bath first and sat on the chair, sighing, finally letting himself rest fully on the chair. He took out his phone, surely he was bombarded with tons of messages from the other members asking about Seungcheol. He texted the group earlier to let them know he was taking the omega home. The members had some sense to ask about the omega privately instead of replying to the group chat. He replied to them one by one; reassuring them without giving out too much information. He was not going to break his promise to Seungcheol.

He took his shower in another bathroom, the whole time pondering what was happening to Seungcheol. He couldn't help as the omega's  words were replaying in his head. He was exhausted as he came out of the shower, understanding dawned on him of how much this affected Seungcheol. When he went to Seungcheol’s room, the omega was already on his bed, scrolling through his phone.

“They keep texting me, saying it's okay for me to rest and all. I don't know what you said to them, but thank you,” Seungcheol muttered as he sat next to him on his bed.

“I didn't say anything, just that you need a rest for now,” Wonwoo replied, holding his hands.

Seungcheol tugged at him, he followed, arranging themselves until Seugcheol laid on his chest, his face near his scent gland. Their limbs tangled together, Wonwoo's hands tenderly rubbed his back, Seungcheol hummed. The room was silent aside from their breathing, and Seungcheol let himself melt into Wonwoo's body.

In the privacy of his room, he let out the repressed desire as he molded himself against the alpha and finally something felt right this time. Seungcheol had a small smile as he slipped into slumber, feeling lighter for the first time in a week. Wonwoo engulfed him in his arms and brought him the utmost comfort he didn't know he needed.

***

The next morning Seungcheol woke up groaning, he whimpered as he felt the ache all over his body. He was profusely sweating, his temperature had spiked and begrudgingly he realized he was in pre-heat. He tried to move his body to a more comfortable position when he noticed the alpha sleeping next to him. In his dazed mind, he could feel the rush of emotions surging into him the moment he saw the alpha.

Despite the preheat symptoms, his omega urged him to be closer with the alpha.  Seungcheol let his omega take over himself as he scooted closer, whimpering as his body ached with every move he made. He relaxed once he attached himself to the alpha's side. Seungcheol let out a sigh in relief, normally he would scold himself for letting himself be affected that easily in the presence of the alpha. However, being in preheat Seungcheol knew himself he needed a lot of care. It was the only occasion he didn't need to fight his instinct.

Omega in heat wasn’t only meant to be bred or fucked, they need a lot of love  and care too and right now, Seungcheol already felt cared for. The fact that Wonwoo stayed with him the whole night when he didn't need to. The alpha could easily go out once he fell asleep and he wouldn't mind. Sometimes bloomed inside of him as he laid his head on Wonwoo's chest, listening to the alpha’s heartbeat.

He squirmed to get closer to Wonwoo's scent gland, trying to get as many of his favorite scents. The movement he made soon woke up the alpha, he stared at the alpha from the moment he opened his eyes to finally regain his consciousness. His lips twitched into a small grin as he felt Wonwoo's arm circled around his torso before the alpha turned to him. He was lucky to be bestowed with such a beautiful view. Wonwoo was still laced with sleepiness, the way his eyes drooped a little. He was in the most raw state he could be and yet Seungcheol could only think of how beautiful he was.

Wonwoo reached up and gently carding his fingers through his hair, petting his head as he mirrored his expression. They were in their own world, curled up against each other on Seungcheol's bed. Only the soft sunlight peeking through the curtain was their witness. Peacefully tender. Seungcheol reeled in the way Wonwoo looked down at him with the fond smile he had seen. For once he believed he could one day have this everyday.

“Morning,” Wonwoo's voice still hoarse from sleep, he cleared his throat, “How are you feeling today?”

“Hurt, my preheat symptoms are already acting up, my whole body aching,” Seungcheol complained.

Wonwoo immediately pulled him into his arm, caressing his back in the most tender way he ever felt. Seungcheol sniffed the soothing pheromones the alpha let out and felt the way his body reacted to it. Slowly his body loosened the tension and the aching dissipated a little. Seungcheol basked in it, enjoying every part of it, and let his full body weight lean on the alpha.

“It’s still early, your scent hasn't changed yet, let rest for the day before your heat comes,” Wonwoo coaxed, rubbing a circle on his lower back.

“This is what I was talking about, I was fine just yesterday then suddenly today I’m in pre-heat.” he ranted, suddenly reminded with his outburst yesterday that led him here. Although he was half thankful because he was in Wonwoo's arm in his room right now, he definitely didn't appreciate the sudden change. He complained, “Why can't I have a regular cycle like others?”

“Shhh… let's not dwell on it now. Just focus on your heat first, okay? You're only going to get stressed if you think about it. We will think about it once you out of heat,”

“Why not make your nest now, hmm?” Wonwoo suggested it when he didn't say anything.

Seungcheol stayed quiet long enough that Wonwoo wanted to suggest something else. However, the omega suddenly pulled away and got up from the bed. Seungcheol went into his closet, rummaging through his clothes. Sniffing and picking up the clothes with his scents. Then, he went to Wonwoo’s room, from the corner of his eyes he could see the alpha followed him confusedly. He did the same, picking Wonwoo’s clothes that had his scents the most.

They were back in Seungcheol's room, both having a handful of clothes, Seungcheol even took Wonwoo's perfume with him. Seungcheol began to arrange the clothes on his bed, taking out some of his clothes to mix with Wonwoo's. Wonwoo watched as the omega carefully arranged each article of clothes around his bed.

Seungcheol is always very meticulous with his nest. Not as neat as Jun and Seungkwan but tidy enough in his own way. He would carefully make his nest and wouldn't let anyone touch it until he finished. It was always different every heat. Seungcheol tends to do his nest only with his own clothes, due to his irregular cycle most of the time he didn't have the time to do it properly. Sometimes he wasn't prepared to do the nest before his heat and only nested after the heat.

Wonwoo watched the way his lips turned to a pout as he focused on the task. Such a mundane, domestic thing yet he couldn't help the happiness rushing in him, endeared by the lovely sight upon him. Seungcheol took the time to arrange and rearrange the articles of clothing, mixed in some of the other members as well.

Seungcheol stood proud at the nest he made and was ready to get into his nest when he felt a hand on his waist. He leaned back to turn to the alpha, he whispered, “Let’s take a rest for now, I don't know when the heat will come,”

Seungcheol climbed into his nest, sat in the middle of it, already happy as he was surrounded with his favorite scents. He held out his hand to beckon the alpha into his nest. They arranged themselves in the middle of the nest and Seungcheol could say it was his favorite place too. In his nest, as he laid on Wonwoo's chest and his arms around his body. It made it feel as if they were isolated and alone in their own world. In here he felt safe and serene.

They stayed in bed for the whole day, Wonwoo would go out sometimes to get their food but the whole day was spent in his safe haven. Wonwoo was ready to comfort him every time he felt the symptoms worsening. He was delirious by night, his scent already turned sweeter. He fell asleep after taking a pain reliever, soothed by the fact that Wonwoo would be next to him the entire night.

He could feel the heat coming when he woke up the next morning in dazed. His body getting hotter the more he woke up, he could feel the ache in his pelvis and the slick slowly leaked out. Seungcheol turned to his side and woke up the alpha. As soon as the alpha woke up, he realized what was happening and was quick to hold the omega.

Wonwoo scented the omega, caressing his body while letting out his soothing pheromones to relieve the ache. Though he knew at this point it wouldn't give much relief, he learned that with Seungcheol he needed to take his time. Making sure the omega was okay, the omega needed constant reassurance and touch if he didn't want the omega to slip too deep in subspace.

He was kissing every surface of Seungcheol’s body and taking off his clothes one by one. Seungcheol squirmed and urged him to move faster as usual, even though both him and the omega knew it was better for them to move slowly. Like a routine, Wonwoo coaxed the omega to wait and continued to touch the omega the way he knew.

Taking his time in pleasuring the omega, prepping him, swallowing all of his noises. When Wonwoo slipped inside of him, the omega moaned thank you, finally getting what he wanted. The heat was the only time he surrendered to his primal instinct, letting his omega take over.

They spent his heat for 3 days, Wonwoo taking care of him during those days. Seungcheol only needed Wonwoo this time, and wouldn't let the alpha out of his sight. He clinged to him even after a heat wave passed, and became whiny when the alpha left his nest. Wonwoo was nice enough to not leave him alone and when he needed to, he would make sure he wouldn't go for long. Even though Seungcheol enjoyed it then, his behavior certainly caused discomfort after the heat later.

He was on Wonwoo's lap, playing with Wonwoo's finger, the heat had subsided. They just showered after having an intense sex, still in the haze. Seungcheol definitely still dazed, his mind still floating in between headspace though he was more conscious when Wonwoo suddenly spoke about his outburst. It took him a while to register what Wonwoo was talking about, to recall everything that had unfolded a few days ago.

Seungcheol was ready to deflect and change the topic, truthfully never wanting to speak about it again. However, luck was not on his side with every turn he made to deviate the topic, Wonwoo stubbornly brought it up again. After going back and forth about it, Seungcheol relented, “what do you suggest?”

“Let's go for a checkup, at least for your heat cycle, maybe they would know what to do,” Wonwoo said enthusiastically, hoping the omega would agree.

Seungcheol was silent after that, worrying his bottom lips as he pondered on it. He understood the concern the alpha had, but at the same time he was afraid. At last, he agreed reluctantly, that seemed to change when he saw the relief pour out of the alpha. Seungcheol snuggled closer to the alpha and thankfully the alpha got the hint and didn't say anything after that, holding his tight. Silence surrounded them again, serene with the mix of their scent. Seungcheol fell asleep like that, tangled around the alpha.

***

Two weeks after that, Seungcheol sat on the floor of the dance practice, alone. They were having another dance practice today and Seungcheol was the first one to arrive. He looked like he was mindlessly scrolling through his phone, lazily waiting for the other members, yet his mind was on overdrive. He kept pondering about what his doctor told him just now. He was fine, in fact he was a healthy omega. Nothing he never heard before, but one thing the doctor brought up got his attention. A healthy omega has desires and needs to be taken care of.

Ever since he became omega, he realized the jarring difference between a beta and omega. Beta might be affected by pheromones but it was nothing compared to what happened to omega. The tug of war between instinct and conscience. He had multiple instances where he had to push down his instinct.

Especially in his line of job, Seungcheol had repressed those desires and needs since he was presented as omega. He wasn't an ordinary omega, he is an omega leader of an idol group. More than his need, the group was his priority. Masquerading himself as a strong omega, biting the bullets for his group. Not only did he sacrifice himself, he showed people how unaffected he was toward anything that could easily control other omegas.

Unlike the company that turned to chaos the moment he turned as omega, he was not surprised. It was not like he didn't know about it. The world had evolved and new technology had been developed. It had been long since people could get tested to know their second gender. Seungcheol's family had brought him in for an examination and when the result came out he already expected. His parents didn't say anything but he knew they were relieved that he was an omega.

He didn't remember if he ever mentioned it to the company but it seemed he didn’t. At first when he didn’t present as an omega he was disappointed that the test was invalid. He tried to console himself that he was too busy being a trainee at a young age and his presentation was delayed. However, one by one his friends presented leaving him alone as a beta. When he was 18 years old, he just accepted that the test was wrong and he was actually a beta. Though the universe had a different plan, just as he enjoyed being an idol and a beta he suddenly presented as omega.

He couldn’t even hide it as he got into heat just as he came down the stage after their comeback performance. He was rushed home and soon it was all over the internet. The company had to do some damage control, putting him on hiatus as he spent his heat. Though the moment he was out of heat he called for a meeting, making decisions for himself and the group.

Over the years he wasn't proud of it even when the company sang praises for him as an omega leader, to him it was natural thought as a leader. He needed to lead his group and he couldn't do it if his own instinct rendered him. Nevertheless, his effort seemed to be flushed down the drain as his doctor's advice replayed in his mind.

He was only an omega, despite forcing his nature to be dormant inside of him, it still tried to go against him. After years of repressed thought, in the end he still couldn't escape his nature. No matter how much he tried to fool himself this is natural for him, deep down he knew he needed it. He had been ignoring it and now his body was protesting against him. Demand to be released, to his primal desire.

“Hey,” a deep voice interrupted his thought, pulling him back to the practice room.

He looked up to the alpha, leaning down before taking a seat next to him on the floor. He looked around, some of the members had arrived without him noticing. Seungcheol turned back to Wonwoo, alarmingly a thought slipped into his mind. Seungcheol was quick to kill those thoughts, and didn't give it the time of the day. 

Seungcheol took a shuddering, deep breath trying to control himself. He could feel himself slipping, emotions rushing in his veins. Here the alpha next to him, unknowingly affecting him in a way he didn't appreciate. Especially after being told he needed to stop repressing his desire so much.

As the emotions swirled inside of him, twisted his inside he got the urge to tell Wonwoo the truth. He wondered how the alpha would react, in his self-deprecating mind he conjured the worst scenario likely to happen. Wonwoo might be nicer though, his mind supplied, he wouldn't be too cruel about it.

However, the way Wonwoo leaned closer to him like he couldn't help but to be close to him gave his little self a sliver of hope. Seungcheol, despite hating it, couldn't stop himself relaxing a little as he got a whiff of Wonwoo's pheromones.

He had noticed the alpha didn't wear strong scent blocker anymore since his breakdown. Opted for a milder one where his pheromones could seep through more when he was outside. Seungcheol had to fight his urge to lean into the alpha the more he sniffed his scent. Without him realizing, his hands trembled slightly as he fisted his hand a little too strong.

He didn't want to give up on his desire and nonetheless, wanted to push it a little longer. The silence that was always peaceful between them today however, overwhelmed him. He needed something to distract himself. Seungcheol broke the silence as he muttered softly, “I just went to the check up today,”

“I heard, the manager told me this morning. How was it?” Wonwoo pulled back a little to take a good look at Seungcheol.

Seungcheol could see the concern flowing through his eyes, and felt it in the hand that reached to take hold of his hand. He replied, unable to hide the strain on his voice, “I was fine, I was healthy, just my body having some hormone imbalance causing it to act up. It will go away eventually, nothing to worry about,”

Seungcheol felt bad for lying to the alpha, but couldn’t bring himself to tell something so personal and considered a big matter to the omega. The alpha was silent for a while, it made him nervous. Did the alpha see through him? In the end Wonwoo frowned and spoke up sharply, “If you said so,”

He stiffened, eyes frantically trying to read Wonwoo's emotion. Sweat started forming on his palm, cold and clammy. He knew there’s no point in lying to the alpha but he couldn't find the courage to get the word out.

Silence surrounded them once again, now with additional tension. Seungcheol stared at the alpha, looking around the room. No one was really paying attention to them, immersed in their own doing. When he looked back at Wonwoo, the moment was gone. All the words stuck in his throat were bitter to swallow and all he wanted to do was to pull Wonwoo close and apologize until he's forgiven.

He tightened his hold on Wonwoo's hand, afraid he would fly away. As he saw the disappointment etched on Wonwoo's face his confidence began to crumble. His other hand curled around the alpha’s arm, letting out a whine at the unmoving alpha.

“It's okay, it's nothing,” his voice cracking, sounding more like to convince himself than Wonwoo. He pulled the arm close to him and leaned his head on Wonwoo's shoulder. He had to bite down a sob when the alpha instantly wrapped his arms around him. Face nuzzled close to Wonwoo's scent gland in the crook of his neck, inhaling the calming fresh scent of the alpha. Oblivious to the worried look Wonwoo had as he burrowed his face further.

  The practice went on smoothly, Wonwoo had to pry him off of him when the room got  filled up one by one of the members. Seungcheol was the first to bolt out of the room the moment the practice was done. He knew he had to wait for others but he would rather be anywhere else than in the studio. He knew he was running away but he didn't want to deal with it just yet.

He pulled his hoodie pretending to be asleep as he got on the passenger seat. Moments later he heard the car door open and closed. He couldn't detect any pheromones but he knew it was one of the members.

“Cheol-ah,” he tensed up at the sound of the call, like always the universe was never on his side. He hummed his replies, not moving an inch even to look back.

“Do you want to go eat? We are the only ones that didn't have a schedule today,” Jeonghan asked quietly.

“Sorry, I am tired. I just wanna sleep,” he responded hastily.

Fortunately this time Jeonghan let him be and didn't say anything after that. The whole ride was awfully quiet. Only the sound of the radio softly playing in the background. Seungcheol stayed hidden under his hoodie, leaning his head on the car door. He didn’t give Jeonghan or the manager a glance when he got out of the car. Jeonghan looked like he wanted to say something but relented at the end, went to his room quietly.

Seungcheol took a quick shower and was ready to go to bed when he heard a knock on his door. He had an idea to leave it unanswered but knew well enough that Jeonghan aware that he wasn't asleep yet.

“Do you need anything?” he asked lazily as he opened the door. He let the door open as he retreated back to his bed, an invitation. He patted the space at the side of his bed, signaling his best friend to sit.

“I just want to talk to you. I feel like it has been too long since we talked to each other,” Jeonghan muttered.

“There's nothing to talk about honestly. I am doing fine,” he defended, almost hostile in his tone. However, Jeonghan  didn't faze and completely ignored whatever he said. Instead, his best friend looked at him deadpan before letting out a sigh.

“You are better than this,” left unsaid, the way his gaze studying Seungcheol made him squirm.

“How’s the check up,” Jeonghan sighed, decided to be blunt and continued, “before you said anything, I asked Wonwoo and he didn't say anything other than you went to check up this morning. Also, he didn't send me here,”

“I am fine,” Seungcheol responded dejectedly, his heart beating as Jeonghan frowned at his answer, “It was like before, really, Jeonghan-ah. I am fine,”

Seungcheol had long abandoned the idea of hiding the truth for Jeonghan. Years of being best friends he had learned in the hard way, that nothing passed his best friend. Though this was something he didn't want to talk ever, to anyone, let alone an alpha. He didn't want to worry them with unnecessary thoughts.

“What did the doctor said? Jeonghan persisted.

“I was fine, the doctor said I am the healthiest now as an omega,” He replied, wishing Jeonghan would drop it and let it go. Nevertheless, Jeonghan was just as stubborn as him and Seungcheol knew he wouldn't leave his room without getting the answer that he wanted.

Seungcheol fidgeted, playing with his fingers, his resolve was as flimsy as paper. He had never talked about it, his desire to find a mate or even his own feelings toward another alpha.

“You gonna hurt yourself,” he heard, snapping him out of his trance. He had retreated at the edge of the bed, worrying his bottom lips until it bled. He could taste the blood. Jeonghan took his hand, stopping his fidgeting, the squeeze of his hand was grounding as how he always remembered.

He tensed up when Jeonghan guided his head toward his shoulder and only relaxed a second later. Jeonghan's presence itself was already comforting but the added calming pheromones Jeonghan has been letting out since he entered his room making it easier for him to stay afloat.

“I am fine really,” he mumbled, breaking the silence, “I'm a normal omega who has desire and need.”

Jeonghan circled his thumb on their intertwined hands gently, letting Seungcheol know he was listening so he continued, “The doctor was talking about an omega natural instinct and primal need, the way our biological functions. I do, I have those instincts too the moment I am presented as omega. I have those thoughts too,”

Seungcheol let out a shaky breath, somehow talking about it making him emotional, he was glad Jeonghan couldn't see his face in this position. Jeonghan remained quiet beside him, if not for the thumb drawing circle on his hand he would have thought his best friend already fell asleep.

He was thankful though, because like this he could pour out his thoughts without any interruption. The thought of having to rely on someone for the sense of security and how his mind always pictured someone who was tall, broad shoulder with a deep voice to be that person he relied on. His desire to mate despite being an idol, and how he pushes everything down. The way he has been ignoring his instinct for so long and now it’s biting him back in the ass.

“Cheol-ah,” Jeonghan called as Seungcheol sniffled against his shoulder, “I know you think that you need to put the group first before yourself but that doesn't mean you have to forget yourself. You still need to take care of yourself too.”

“Are you burdened by being an omega,” Jeonghan had asked, Seungcheol almost had whiplash with how fast he pulled away and looked at his best friend.

“Of course not, I may be a late bloomer but I never hate being an omega,” Jeonghan smiled at his answer, as far as he was concerned being an omega was never the problem. He might have said something he didn't mean when he was having a meltdown, but deep down he knew it wasn't the problem. It was what came with it.

“Then what was it?” Jeonghan insisted.

“Just a little inconvenience I wished I didn't have to deal with,”

“I think you got it all wrong. Yes, you have instinct and desire for an alpha and you might have someone you want but the perk of living in a group was that you could ask for our help too. But you don't even let us scent you,”

Seungcheol held his head down, keeping his eyes glued to his lap. It was true, he had held himself back from doing any skinship with other members. Only let them touch him during heat, even then only some of them were given the privilege, and of course Wonwoo. Or when they were outside when he knew their scent was masked by the blocker. He deliberately avoided the scenting ritual unlike the other omegas. 

“You always help us, don't you think we would want to do the same for you?” Jeonghan continued.

“It didn't matter…” he mumbled quietly, he almost thought Jeonghan hadn't caught it.

“Cheol-ah, we would rather see you screaming in pain than struggling in silence alone like this,” the alpha said sternly, the grip on his tightened a bit.

Seungcheol felt the tears brimming from behind his eyes, sucking a shaky breath to push it back. His heart was racing and the sound loud in his ear, tightened his chest. His own sour scents mixed with Jeonghan’s scent. He closed his eyes when he felt close to tears.

He felt his world was closing on him as he tried to breathe in the air. He hunched over, trembling when he felt himself engulfed by two warm arms. Letting himself fall into Jeonghan’s embrace and finally like a broken dam, he cried on the alpha's shoulder.

“Aigoo, our Seungcheollie,” Jeonghan comforted him, rubbing his back tenderly. Jeonghan let him pour everything out, whispering sweet reassurance to his ear. When he had calmed down a little; only letting out a sniffle, his best friend pulled him off his shoulder. Seungcheol was completely drained after his cry, let Jeonghan wiped his face and fixed his clothes.

Jeonghan pulled him close after he was done, again leaning his head on his shoulder. The room fell silent, he closed his eyes. The air was thick with Jeonghan’s calming pheromones. He almost fell asleep when Jeonghan spoke again, breaking the silence.

 “Let us help you, Cheol-ah, we will gladly help you. It's the least we could do after everything you have done for us,” he hummed, half agreeing then,

“Also talk to Wonwoo,” Seungcheol looked up at Jeonghan the moment he heard Wonwoo's name.

“What do you think I didn't know?” the blushed creeped into his face as fast as he looked away from Jeonghan's gaze.

Seungcheol didn't say anything after that, letting it brewed in his mind, the idea of talking it out with Wonwoo seemed impossible. Thankfully, Jeonghann didn’t continue and let silence enveloped them again before leaving the room to let him sleep. That night, he dreamt of Wonwoo and he knew day by day his desire continued to grow.

***

A week has passed when he found himself in front of Wonwoo's room, hand halfway up in the air, hesitating to knock on the door. He didn’t know what possessed him to go and see the alpha. Honestly, he didn't have a plan, he just wanted to see the alpha.

He took a step back when the alpha opened his door at his single knock. He stood stiffly pulling his sleeve to cover his hand. It was a habit of his, to go on hiding as his anxiety peaked. Shrugging himself into a small ball despite his big build.

Seungcheol wasn't surprised when Wonwoo was shocked to see Seungcheol in front of his room. Seungcheol had made an effort to avoid the alpha the whole week. Moving to the opposite side of the room, to the point of moving away when he saw the alpha tried to approach him.

By the end of the practice that evening, Jeonghan had side eyed him, disapproved of his little stunt. If that wasn't enough, Jeonghan had threatened him to tell Wonwoo everything if he continued to ignore the alpha.

He swayed his weight from foot to foot when Wonwoo just stood still at the door. He started to lose his confidence when Wonwoo finally moved away to invite him into his room. Seungcheol sat at the edge of the bed, hand on his lap as Wonwoo pulled his gaming chair to sit in front of him.

Seungcheol's heart was beating fast, he wondered if Wonwoo could hear his heart with how loud it was. His stance began to crumble by the second, stomping his feet anxiously as the air turned awkward. Never in his life, he would imagine it would be awkward between him and the alpha. It was supposed to be easy with Wonwoo but the words were clogged up his throat.

“Hey, I am here, it's okay,” a hand reached up to hold his hand. He watched the hand slotted perfectly in his hand like it was made for him. It gave him some hope, he held the alpha's hand and gave it a little squeeze. It should have alarmed him how fast the small gesture was able to calm his heart but he let it happened, he needed his heart to not flutter. To have the alpha near him like this, it was something he has been craving for so long. He looked around the room, trying to ground himself as he gathered his thoughts.

The room was dimmed with only the light of Wonwoo's computer illuminating the room. He wondered if he had stopped the alpha from his gaming but it seemed the alpha was just on his desk reading his books. He noticed a book opened faced down on the table next to the stack of books haphazardly arranged on the side of the table.

The room stilled as if waiting for him to speak up. However, all the courage he had a moment ago had vanished the moment he entered the room. The words he had prepared in his head, slipped his mind. His mind blank, sucking a sharp breath he tried to gather his words again. Thinking and rethinking on how to phrase his words. While he was thinking Wonwoo's hand remained around his hand, thumb drew circles tenderly, somehow it eased his anxious thoughts.

“Can you scent me?” he started, thinking it was easier with that. A small gesture, normal between pack members. But he guessed it was unusual for him, the way Wonwoo gaped at him, eyes widened behind his glasses was comical. He would laugh if he was not serious about scenting, but he wanted the alpha to get his intention across.

“He loves you, he would want to help you,” that was what Jeonghan had said to him and it has been on his mind for the whole day.

The moment passed and when he didn't hear anything from the alpha, he started to panic. Seungcheol looked up, eyes beginning to well up only to see the same frozen expression on the alpha just now at the door. Seungcheol made a distressed sound, almost like a whimper and that made the alpha snap out of his mind. Seungcheol couldn't hear anything except his heartbeats.

It was pounding in his ear no matter how he tried to control it, only calmed down a little when Wonwoo started enveloping him. Surrounded by the warmth Wonwoo produced, he leaned his head on Wonwoo's shoulder and reciprocated the hug. Nonetheless, Wonwoo didn't say anything about scenting, Seungcheol mindfully made sure their skin didn't touch. Seungcheol, thinking he was about to be rejected, wanted to pull away. In the end, before the dark thought had a chance to seep through his mind, Wonwoo reassured him, “Of course I will scent you. Anything for you, Cheollie.”

Seungcheol let out the breath he didn't realize he was holding, nuzzled closer boldly. All the tension melted off his body as he inhaled his favorite scent. They stayed like that for a while, Seungcheol almost let out a whine when the alpha pushed him off of him. He realized how close they were when he glanced at Wonwoo, again realizing that he was never like this with the alpha outside of heat. Seungcheol felt the blush coloured his face and looked away almost immediately.

“Let's sit on the bed, okay? it will be more comfortable like that.” Wonwoo nudged him to move to the middle of the bed as he climbed the bed as well.

Once Wonwoo had found a comfortable position at the headboard, he beckoned him to come closer. Again his face was burning, he was sure he was beet red. Seungcheol squirmed a little just as he straddled his lap trying to find a comfortable position. Seungcheol looked down, avoiding Wonwoo’s eyes, he understood then why scenting was an intimate ritual. To be this close with someone, you would only do with someone who you are comfortable and trust with.

He sucked in the air when Wonwoo held his chin to make eye contact with him. His instinct told him to look away or Wonwoo could read his mind if he continued to stare into his eyes. His eyes frantically searching his face unknowingly tried to analyze Wonwoo's feeling, his fright was triggered and his mind was going overdrive, felt threatened and his vulnerable self tried to protect him. Then the alpha whispered, “relax, I am not gonna hurt you,”

Seungcheol gasped, heart stopping as he looked at Wonwoo trying to find the lie beneath those words yet found nothing. Wonwoo smiled at him as he slowly reached up to cup his face, single handedly eased his frantic mind. They stared at each other for a while, his mind turned quiet letting him focus on his breathing.

They both leaned closer until their forehead touched, he closed his eyes, enjoyed the touch of the alpha, the gentle caresses of his thumbs against his cheekbone. He could hear the humming of the air conditioner as their breathing synced together like they meant to be. The puff of air against his cheek as Wonwoo breathed out. He was in the calmest state he ever was, close to Wonwoo in their cocoon.

“Wonwoo,” Seungcheol breathed, tugging his forearms. He started to get impatient and Wonwoo kissed the corner of his lips, tried to coax him.

Wonwoo plastered kisses all over his face, the kisses were soft and slow like they have all the time in the world. At that moment, they both believed that, wrapped in their own world inside to cuckon of Wonwoo's room. Wonwoo started to move down to his neck, felt his lips stretched into a smile against the skin as Seungcheol began to make tiny noises.

Seungcheol wrapped his arms around his shoulder as he deepened the kisses, trying to stay upright when the alpha sucked a little harder. He noticed the alpha being careful when he was near his scent gland, giving it a little peck at first. Seungcheol appreciated it though he meant it when he asked the alpha to scent him. He wanted his scent on him, he held Wonwoo's head when he felt the kiss lingered longer on his scent gland, like he wanted to keep him there.

He could taste the sweetness of Seungcheol’s scent as he licked the gland. Seungcheol moaned as he continued to lap the gland, smearing his scent all over the gland. He groaned when the omega nosed his scent gland as well like he couldn't get enough of it. He began to scent to omega with more force, loving the way the omega went limp and letting him do whatever he wanted.

By the end of it, Seungcheol smelled just like him, making his alpha proud and satisfied. Seungcheol leaned his head in the crook of his neck, completely relaxed against his body. He gently rubbed the omega’s back, whispering sweet nothing to his ear. It caught him off guard when he heard the omega purred for the first time, it seemed tonight Seungcheol was determined to surprise him. Wonwoo would have thought the omega was sleeping when the omega finally moved away.

“Alpha, I have something I want to tell you,” Wonwoo looked down at the omega resting on chest, the way his eyes glazed a little made Wonwoo worried if he was in the right headspace. Moreover, the omega never addressed him like that outside of his heat.

“Wonwoo-yah,” Seungcheol whined, hands cupping his face. It caught him off guard, whatever Seungcheol planned to do tonight was something he wasn't entirely comfortable with. The omega was easily triggered, mind turning every second overthinking it. He wasn't able to guess it but he knew it was important and the omega needed a lot of reassurance.

He tried to whisper his reassurance to the omega but it seemed the omega no longer heard him. He was alarmed when the omega’s pheromones turned sour. The omega began to tremble slightly, Wonwoo instantly pulled the omega closer letting out his calming pheromones.

“Do you not like me, Wonwoo?” Seungcheol mumbled ever so softly he would miss it if they weren't already close together.

“What? What are you talking about, Cheollie?” Wonwoo stuttered, taken aback by the omega's question, “Nowhere in hell would I ever hate you, Seungcheol,”

“No, not like that. As omega, do you like me? Because I have liked you for so long and I have been craving for you, even without the heat. I felt like I could go insane with how much I want you. I know I can't, you are my member and we are idols, I don't want to jeopardize our group,” Seungcheol rambled, letting his insecurities overtake his mind.

Letting out everything he had overthink. The omega cried as he rambled about his insecurities, the way it bugged him yet made him unmoved. Wonwoo had known the omega was holding back a lot of himself but never would he thought he was one of it. When Seungcheol insisted he was fine after the checkup he almost snapped at the omega. At that moment he wanted to shake the omega, and broke through his wall just so he could hold him. Wonwoo had only wanted the omega to reach out.

Seungcheol started to hyperventilate as he continued to ramble all the worst scenarios his mind could make up. When the omega continue to ramble instead of regulating his breathing, Wonwoo leaned forward catching his lip to kiss him.

Seungcheol flinched a second but Wonwoo stayed still. When the omega kissed him back, he tilted his head to kiss him properly, one of his hands holding the back of his head pulling him closer. Wonwoo kisses a last time before pulling away, leaning back against the headboard.

“Breathe, take a breath first, Cheollie,” he whispered against his lips, counted for him until he was able to control his breathing again.

“I like you too, Seungcheol-ah. You don't know how long I have waited to say that. You can doubt anything, but my feeling for you is sincere and clear as crystal,” Wonwoo confessed, feeling light as the word left his mouth. Finally he was able to say it.

Seungcheol leaped to hug the alpha, tightened his hold as he wrapped his own arms around the omega. His finger carding through Seungcheol's hair while his other hand rubbing circles on his back.

“Cheollie,” he whispered when he heard a sniffle from the omega.

Wonwoo nudged him, wiping his tears. Wonwoo leaned forward and kissed his forehead gently, “What's wrong, hmm?”

“I'm scared, I am the leader, I supposed to be strong, but I felt like a fraud. There are so many thing I'm scared of, this is one of them,” Seungcheol's voice cracked a little, eyes brimming red.

“What is this?” he needed to know for sure of what the omega thinking if he wanted to help him.

“This. Us. Our relationship, what if it didn't work out, I don't want to lose you but what if something happened to the group because of me,” Seungcheol clenched on the front of Wonwoo's t-shirt, trembling probably having the worst kind of scenario in his head.

“Cheollie, you haven't learned how much I like you. Trust me, I will not let it happen, Yo won't lose me, it might be hard as our job as idol, but you have nothing worry about because I will be with you all the way,” Wonwoo put his hand on top of Seungcheol, tried to lessen the grip, another hand reached the nape of his neck, rubbing it softly. Wonwoo watched slowly the way the omega relaxed against him, pulling him into a hug.

Seungcheol hugged the alpha again, his heart warmed when the alpha wrapped his arms around his waist, pulling him closer. Filling his lung with Wonwoo's calming scent, his own scent started to become sweeter. Curling against each other, Seungcheol could live like this forever, in his alpha’s arm. 

They still had a lot to talk about, but that could wait. He knew Wonwoo still wanted to clear things up but all of sudden he was tired. All the emotions and crying drained every last energy he had that day. Right now, all he wanted was to be drowned in his alpha’s pheromones. The hand on his back didn't stop rubbing circles tenderly lulling him to slumber. That was the last thing he remembered before he fell asleep.

The next morning, Seungcheol smiled as he opened his eyes to see the alpha next to him, he snuggled closer, leaning his head on the alpha's chest. He purred as he felt the alpha's arm on his waist hugging him close. The morning sunlight shone on them, warmed up the room and he could hear the sound of traffic from distance. The city was bustling in the early morning and Seungcheol was grateful to be in bed with Wonwoo instead.

Their scents coalesced creating a new, exciting mixture. His mind was quiet and he was the most peaceful then like all his worried stripped off of him.  A new world has opened up for him, the one where he could let himself fall and Wonwoo would be there to catch him. The world he could be excited about simplest thing because Wonwoo would let him, where he didn’t need to pretend. He closed his eyes, basked in the field of happiness he’s in.

***

Someone knocked on his door and Jeonghan peaked through the door, “Is he okay?” Jeonghan asked.

“Yeah, he is. A bit overwhelmed but he is fine,” Wonwoo replied, stroking the omega's head on his lap. He smiled when the omega snuggled closer in his sleep.

“I assumed he talked to you,” Jeonghan said.

“He did. I don't know what you said to him but thank you,” at times Wonwoo was grateful that Jeonghan was the eldest alpha, he shake his head when he was reminded how jealous he used to be at the older alpha.

“Well, I am tired of seeing you both pining over each other, it's clearly taking a toll on him, I hate to interfere but I am getting worried about him. Should I tell the kids?”

“Don't, we haven't talked much yet and I don't think he would like it if the other says anything. I want to do it in his phase,” Wonwoo interjected, despite the thrill the other members were feeling right now, Seungcheol is still the reserved omega. It wouldn't take him a day to feel comfortable sharing something personal.

“Sure, if you want that. Rest up, I'm going then,”

Wonwoo looked down at the omega sleeping on his lap as Jeonghan closed the door again. He never imagined his feelings could grow further, but at that moment his heart swelled with affection for the sleeping figure. He slowly reached, breath hitched as his fingers caressed the omega’s soft hair. It still felt surreal to him, to have the omega like this. To finally get a glimpse of the omega’s mind. In that instant he would mind he had to spend a lifetime learning about him.

“Sweet dream, my omega. Good night,” he whispered and kissed the omega’s forehead. Finally getting the sleep he needed, for the first time he slept well with both him and his alpha satisfied. With the omega in his arm, he made a promise to himself to always try to fill Seungcheol's life with happiness.