Chapter Text
Sanghyeok has always been careful.
Not only does he know the immense responsibility that he carried as a role model to everyone in the League of Legends community, but he also understood the challenges that he faced as being The Icon while also being an unmated omega in the running.
Ever since he presented years ago, coupled with the fact that more and more eyes settled on him as he constantly rose to the top of his career, Sanghyeok has always been careful. Especially when it comes to keeping unwanted heats at bay.
Sanghyeok’s meticulous. He always paid attention to the smallest of details. No matter what time of day or how packed his schedule is, he sees to it that he kept track of his heat schedule and never missed taking his suppressants prior to important events and schedules.
He could deal with the force of delayed heats during a long break, it doesn’t matter how intense they would be. He handled it alone for the past few years, he can do it again.
Coincidentally, his next heat would happen a few days before the 2022 Asian Games.
When the training for the Asian Games started, he began taking suppressants and always made sure to double check and recount his stash, and that he had taken the needed pills for that day. When they were bound for Hangzhou, Sanghyeok went the extra mile to even set alarms just to be reminded to take the pills. The extra measure of precaution was needed, his already-packed agenda kept filling in with additional interviews. It’s to be expected though, he understood the role he needed to play as Faker.
But Sanghyeok was also human, and he’s bound to overlook something due to being swamped with work. He’s bound to make a mistake sooner or later.
He couldn’t remember when was the last time he took his pills, or if he had already taken them earlier.
“Hyung?”
Sanghyeok’s attention snapped back into reality, his eyes finding and locking with Minseok’s own worried ones. He doesn’t recall when the younger one sat down beside him on the bed. “Hm?”
“Hyung, are you okay?” Minseok asked softly, a hand lightly touching on the older omega’s arm, “You zoned out, are you tired? We can ask head coach to move this meeting to tomorrow so that we can call it an early night.”
Hearing the concern coming from his teammate never failed to melt Sanghyeok’s heart. He didn’t want to worry the younger omega. With the games fast approaching, Sanghyeok knew—understood the stress and pressure that the players are under right now. He had gone through it back in 2018, but even the previous experience did nothing to help soothe his own nerves. With a quick glance to the other end of the room, he could say the same thing with Jaehyuk.
So, with a soft and gentle smile, Sanghyeok shook his head in reply. “I’m alright, Minseok-ah, the meeting won’t take long anyway. Don’t worry about me.” He reached out a hand out and lightly caressed the support’s hair, noting how a bit of tension lifted from his younger teammate as Minseok leaned into the gesture.
Right. They were supposed to gather in his room for a quick meeting to recap on the drafts and game plan. It’s not the first time that they used his assigned room as the gathering spot, and it’s not like Sanghyeok minded it at all. In fact, he rather enjoyed the company and the noise quite a bit, albeit in secret.
But for some reason, seeing the players, coaches, and even analysts coming into his room one after the other made his skin itch. Has it always been this hot?
And the smell, oh god the smell. It made Sanghyeok’s nose twitch and scrunch up.
As more people entered his room, the more agitated his nose became. Even Minseok’s usually faint but warm floral scent did little to no help in making him feel relaxed. He wanted to cover his nose and block the jarring mixture of various scents clashing with one another, but he didn’t want to raise suspicion or even worry the others. They’ve got enough on their plate already.
The door opening followed by laughter caught the older midlaner’s attention and directed his attention and saw their jungler and the younger midlaner entered his room. Sanghyeok distinctively heard Jinhyeok teasing their botlaner the moment he entered, and whatever reply Jaehyuk gave was drowned out of focus.
Sanghyeok didn’t realize that Minseok was no longer by his side and had joined Wooje who had acquired the bag of various snacks that Jinhyeok bought, the two young ones already chattering over which snacks they called dibs on.
Everything and everyone around him became white noise as Sanghyeok’s attention fixed itself on the person approaching him with a wide grin.
Jeong Jihoon.
“I really thought we’d be late, we had to go back cause Jinhyeok hyung forgot Minseok’s ice cream,” Jihoon said with a chuckle, the space beside Sanghyeok dipped as Jihoon sat beside him. Sanghyeok smiled softly and gazed at their support who shouted in excitement upon pulling out the ice cream in question.
Contrary to what he expected, Sanghyeok was surprised to find the irritation in his nose melting away, the itch faded just by taking in a whiff of the younger midlaner’s scent. Sandalwood and fresh oranges. Warm. Comforting. Feels like being hugged in reassurance. The thought that he actually liked Jihoon’s scent had just hit him at this moment, even if they’ve spent time together before. Has he always smelled this nice?
He registered Jihoon turning to look at him, and in reflex he did the same as they locked eyes. “How was the interview earlier?” Jihoon inquired with a smile, and Sanghyeok could clearly see in his eyes that he’s interested in whatever repeating and generic questions that he was asked.
Ever since their roster was formed for the 2022 Asian Games, Sanghyeok found himself spending more time with the younger midlaner. He couldn’t recall how it happened, but it must’ve been due to Jihoon’s constant presence beside him and his strong determination to strike up a conversation with him.
To his surprise, Sanghyeok realized that he liked every moment he spent together with Jihoon.
He liked hearing the endless stories and funny anecdotes that Jihoon shared with him out of the blue. He liked how they could spend hours on end just talking as if they’ve been friends for half of their lives. He liked how Jihoon groaned and whined while giving him the side eye whenever Sanghyeok cracked one of his dad jokes. He liked how they would spend extra hours after practice just to go over the VODs and exchange opinions and strategies on what should have been done until they ceased their hushed tones to take in the view of the faint sunlight lighting up the dark sky.
He liked it when someone connected with him with ease despite the differences in age and humor.
More than that, he liked how Jihoon made him feel included, always being the first that would ask Sanghyeok if he wanted to go or would ask about what he wanted to do. He had beaten Minseok and Wooje as of late in that department.
In his entire career, Sanghyeok could count on one hand the number of alphas he had interacted with and was comfortably fine around them, and Jihoon’s one of them. There’s just something calming and comforting about Jihoon, he just can’t quite put his finger on it yet.
As Sanghyeok recounted to the younger midlaner the events that had unfolded earlier that day, he couldn’t help but smile when he saw the attentive look on Jihoon’s face. It made him happy for some reason, that whenever he spoke, Jihoon always listened.
Just as when Jihoon opened his mouth to comment, the door opened and Jeonggyun entered with an apology for being late, the attention of the players was directed to their head coach as the chatter died down.
With a small smile, Sanghyeok gently placed his hand on Jihoon’s arm in a silent apology for cutting their conversation short, Jihoon smiled back in understanding and nodded.
True to what Sanghyeok told Minseok earlier, the meeting was quick and straight to the point. But that doesn’t help the fact that the mixture of different scents made Sanghyeok’s head spin and his nose agitated again, slowly starting to feel the warmth building up inside him.
Sanghyeok fidgeted from where he’s seated on his bed, but he kept his face neutral and free from any muscle twitches. He felt Jihoon glancing at him every now and then, but said nothing. It’s obvious how Jihoon wanted to ask him if he’s alright, and Sanghyeok is relieved that he didn’t ask at all. He doesn’t even know what to answer him anyway.
What he’s grateful for is that Jihoon remained by his side, his comforting sandalwood scent helping Sanghyeok to relax.
“Alright that’s about it, if you have any more questions, we can discuss it tomorrow. Rest early, okay? We have a long day ahead tomorrow.” Jeonggyun told them with an encouraging smile before he bid them goodnight and left first.
The chatter came back as the other occupants slowly filed out the room. Sanghyeok lowered his head and tried to control his breathing, completely missing his name being called from the open door. He jolted in his seat when he felt a large hand pressing gently against his back.
“Sanghyeok hyung?”
When Sanghyeok looked up, he not only saw Minseok and Wooje’s worried faces, but Jihoon was also frowning right beside him.
He could feel the heat creeping up to his neck, and Sanghyeok hoped that it’s out of embarrassment and nothing more.
“Hyung, are you sure you’re alright?” Minseok dragged Wooje back inside by his arm before shutting the door close, immediately approaching their leader.
“Eh? Sanghyeok hyung’s not feeling well?” It was Wooje’s turn to frown.
“You should get some rest now,” Jihoon suggested with a light pat on his back before he stood up from the bed and started to make his way to the door. Sanghyeok had to bite back and swallow a whine that threatened to escape his mouth at the sight of Jihoon leaving.
But his kids were here, he needed to assure them that he’s fine.
“The earlier schedule simply drained me, no need to worry further.” Even with the reassuring smile Sanghyeok gave, Minseok and Wooje exchanged a look before turning back to face him with a determined look on their faces, “We’re gonna hang out for a bit here.”
The constant itch under his skin and the heat building up and settling heavy in his abdomen left Sanghyeok wanting to be left alone for the time being. But what could he do after one look at those huge puppy eyes that the two were giving him?
With a resigned but fond smile, Sanghyeok could never bring himself to say no to them.
He’s burning.
Minseok watched helplessly from the edge of the bed as their hyung writhed and squirmed beneath the pile of crumpled sheets and pillows, his usually pale ivory skin flushed bright pink, sweat beading and trickling down his face as Sanghyeok panted heavily in a desperate attempt to cool himself down.
The support pursed his lips tightly, watching his hyung’s face contort in pain, letting out harsh gasps and shuddering whimpers.
They were just about to leave a few minutes ago. They saw how fidgety and flushed Sanghyeok had become and made sure he’s properly tucked in before leaving with a promise that they’ll bring him breakfast the first thing in the morning. They barely made it halfway across the room when they heard Sanghyeok’s pained gasp from behind as they were blasted with a strong scent of sweet green tea and rose.
The usual faint yet calming scent of their hyung was so strong it made Wooje’s head spin from its intensity and nearly tripped on his way out to go get their head coach.
“Where…where’s Wooje?” Sanghyeok croaked out in between pants, his hands clawing and gripping tightly onto the sheets. Minseok moved to his side and knelt down, carding his fingers and brushing aside the older omega’s sweaty bangs. “He went to get coach, hyung. Do you need anything?” Sanghyeok shook his head and swallowed thickly, looking over at his young support with apologetic eyes.
“I’m sorry…you two had to see me like this.” He whispered shakily, shutting his eyes tight and biting his lower lip to muffle another pained whimper. As the heat slowly started to cloud his mind, Sanghyeok couldn’t help but blame himself for overlooking and failing to take his medication. “Especially when we do not have much time left before the game.” This time, he couldn’t hold back the whimper as his voice broke by the end.
Minseok vehemently shook his head, “it’s not your fault, hyung! We can’t control our own biology.” He exclaimed softly, reaching out to hold onto Sanghyeok’s hand and caressed the back of it with his thumb in an attempt to soothe his agitated hyung, wincing at how hot his skin had become.
The door to his room opened and closed quickly, the sound of it slamming shut was enough for Minseok to flinch. When he looked up, a bit of relief settled when he saw Wooje back with Jeonggyun. “How is he?” their head coach asked, looking over the midlaner with deep concern.
Minseok squeezed the older man’s hand once more before releasing it and standing up, making his way to Wooje who stood behind Jeonggyun. “He’s still coherent, but he’ll be in full-blown heat within minutes.” Minseok explained while he wrapped an arm around their toplaner, rubbing the young omega’s shoulder in comfort.
Jeonggyun sighed softly and rubbed his nape in worry. Being a mated alpha, the strong pheromones that Sanghyeok was giving off didn’t affected him, but the scent of it was enough to hurt his nose. “No wonder he seemed agitated earlier…I should have noticed it right away.” He told them softly, feeling guilty at the fact that he should’ve checked up on him earlier.
“Coach, what can we do to help?”
“I don’t think we can do much for him, Wooje. We just have to keep him in his room and let him ride out his heat.” The only response Wooje gave was a small displeased whine, clearly not liking the idea that he couldn’t do anything to help ease Sanghyeok’s discomfort.
A soft whimper cut through their conversation, their attention diverting back to Sanghyeok who was now looking at them with his pupils dilated.
“…oon…”
Jeonggyun turned to look at the two, who shook their heads at his questioning gaze. He turned back and approached the edge of Sanghyeok’s bed, speaking to the latter in a soft and gentle voice, “What was that, Sanghyeok-ah?”
“…hoon…Jihoon…Jihoon…”
Now that was not what they expected.
“Jihoon hyung?” Wooje squeaked in question, sharing another incredulous look with Minseok who was opening and closing his mouth with no sound coming out, because why in the world would Sanghyeok be asking for Jihoon?
“Sanghyeok-ah,” Jeonggyun started off patiently with a smile, “Jihoon-ah can’t come here, it’s not a good idea.” Another whine followed by shaking of his head. “You’re in heat, and you’re both unmated.” Jeonggyun tried to reason again but paused upon seeing Sanghyeok’s lower lip tremble and his eyes started to water.
Looking back at the two omegas, Jeonggyun hoped that they could be of help in convincing their hyung that it was a bad idea, but Wooje seemed to be hesitant in speaking out, opting to nudge Minseok’s arm instead. T1’s youngest knew he was no match when it came to their leader’s tears.
Hesitantly, Minseok spoke to back Jeonggyun up, “Coach is right, hyung. We don’t know how he might react to your pheromones.”
Minseok nearly knelt down and apologized profusely when he saw a tear roll down the side of Sanghyeok’s face, but he held his ground for the general welfare of the older omega.
Sanghyeok fell silent, taking huge gulps of air in between pants, squirming in pain and grinding his teeth together to stifle another cry. The heat was starting to get unbearable, the feeling of his clothes clinging to his skin started to suffocate him. But he looked at the three with a firm resolve shining in his eyes amidst the haze of his heat.
“Jihoon’s not…he won’t do anything to me,” Sanghyeok managed to keep his voice steady, his grip on the sheets a vice, “I just …just tell him to come…that is all I ask,” he stated slowly, swallowing another cry before he croaked out a shaky “please.”
As if the tears weren’t enough, the slight break in Sanghyeok’s voice was the final nail in the coffin.
With a defeated sigh, Jeonggyun met Minseok and Wooje’s defeated gaze. Words weren’t needed to be exchanged, they knew what to do anyway.
“I’ll go get him…” Minseok murmured, gently petting Wooje’s hair before pulling away to leave the room.
Jihoon was nervous and shaking.
If someone would’ve told him before that Sanghyeok’s in heat and was asking for him, he would have laughed right in their faces at how unrealistic and utterly absurd that would be.
Yet here he was, standing in front of Sanghyeok’s door. And oh, he could smell him.
Jihoon was just lounging in his bed when he was interrupted by the incessant knocking on his door, only to find a defeated-looking Minseok who, without any further explanations given, proceeded to drag the alpha out of his room and down to the far end of the hall.
All he caught were the words “Sanghyeok hyung”, “heat”, and “calling for you” which was enough to leave Jihoon baffled and confused. It was only when he caught a whiff of the strong sweet scent coming from inside the room did his brain caught up.
“Are you sure he said my name?”
“Yes, four times actually.”
“Why me?”
“How should I know?”
Jihoon cleared his throat and ran his clammy palms against his sweatpants. Frankly, he had no idea what to do. He doesn’t know why Sanghyeok wanted him there, and he doesn’t know how to react to what was about to come. He’s nervous and scared that he might do something irrational and stupid. He’s keenly aware of the intensity of Sanghyeok’s scent, the strong green tea and rose enticing him from behind the closed door.
“Hyung trusts you, you know. But still, don’t do anything stupid, coach is staying to make sure nothing happens.” Minseok warned him with an innocent smile before he jerked his head towards the closed door.
Jihoon clenched his fists, steeling himself mentally. He’s afraid of doing something against Sanghyeok’s will, but if Sanghyeok trusted him to the point that his teammates and coach allowed him to be there, then Jihoon had to collect himself and prove to Sanghyeok that his trust wasn’t misplaced.
With a deep inhale, Jihoon nodded and followed Minseok into the room.
The moment he stepped inside, he was instantly hit by the intense yet sickly sweet smell of roses with notes of green tea right in the face.
Jihoon barely registered and acknowledged the fact that Wooje and Jeonggyun were in the room, because the moment his eyes landed on Sanghyeok’s trembling body, all other thoughts and previous worries were thrown out of the window as Jihoon took four long strides from the door to the side of Sanghyeok’s bed.
He’s no longer scared or nervous, he’s just concerned for the older midlaner.
If it was even possible, the pheromones grew stronger the closer Jihoon was to Sanghyeok. He had always found Sanghyeok’s scent to be calming and pleasing, but now he felt his mouth water at how good and inviting it had become.
But when he saw the small tears dripping down from Sanghyeok’s eyes, the sweet whispers of temptation got shut down by the much stronger instinct to comfort a distressed omega. Jihoon understood that his top priority right now was to make sure Sanghyeok calmed down.
Now’s not the time, Jihoon. Pull yourself together, you idiot.
“Sanghyeok hyung?” he whispered slowly, not wanting to startle the panting midlaner. “It’s Jihoon, I’m here.” A sharp gasp.
Sanghyeok’s eyes snapped open and zoned in on the figure standing beside him. He’s no longer wearing his glasses, but a spark of recognition lit up in his eyes as they locked gazes. With teary eyes, Sanghyeok released his grip on the sheets and reached out for him with a weak but relieved ‘Jihoon.’
Jihoon’s heart constricted at the sight how vulnerable their usually strong Sanghyeok hyung is. He wasn’t used to this, at all. Although it was his first time seeing Sanghyeok’s tears, he decided he didn’t want to see the older man cry anymore. He just couldn’t bare it.
The strong urge to protect him no longer comes from his natural instinct as an alpha, but as a personal promise he wordlessly made to the older man. It doesn’t matter if Sanghyeok was not aware of the promise. From this day on, it’s The Promise that Jihoon was hell-bent on fulfilling no matter what happens in the future.
“You’re alright, Sanghyeok hyung,” Jihoon murmured warmly as he gathered and welcomed him in his arms, letting Sanghyeok tuck his head underneath his chin and buried his face on Jihoon’s chest, uncaring at the dampness seeping into his shirt. Sanghyeok’s arms tightened around the younger midlaner, as if he was afraid that he would disappear if he loosened his grip on him. “You’re alright, I got you now.”
Jihoon slowly maneuvered them both to a more comfortable position as he settled down in bed, leaning back against the headboard with his arms full of a distressed omega slowly calming down. When he felt Sanghyeok nosing on his scent glands, Jihoon released more of his pheromones, relieved that the previous whimpers and whines started to simmer down to barely audible hums and soft yet contented sighs.
Sanghyeok was still burning to the touch, but it seemed that from inhaling Jihoon’s scent, the haze of his heat cleared just enough for the clawing panic in his chest to disappear and his rationality coming back.
The older midlaner’s cheeks flushed darker in shame from how unconventional his behavior was towards Jihoon. He must have been shocked and didn’t know what to do or deal with him. “I apologize, Jihoon-ah…” Sanghyeok’s voice was muffled but steady, the delirium of his heat temporarily at rest, “this must be a confusing and cumbersome situation that I’ve dragged you in.”
Jihoon couldn’t help but chuckle softly at how adorable the older man was being. It should be illegal, really, to be this adorable and trusting while in heat and being with an unmated alpha he trusted so much that he willingly encased himself in said alpha’s arms as if the refuge he seeks is just within.
Jihoon vowed that for as long as he’s breathing, he’ll never let any pain or hurt come to Sanghyeok. Maybe he’ll still do that even from beyond.
“It’s fine, hyung, I’m just glad I could be of help,” Jihoon rubbed comforting circles on the small of Sanghyeok’s back but paused when he felt the latter shifting and moving in his arms, so he looked down and nearly cooed when he saw Sanghyeok peeking up at him. He had to bite the inside of his cheek to stop the strangled poor excuse of a squeal from escaping from deep within his chest.
“Jihoonie?”
Oh god, give me strength.
“Yes, hyung?”
Sanghyeok’s face flushed again and Jihoon would’ve been worried had it not been for the adorably shy expression he had right now as he considered the words he’s about to utter.
“I, um, I really like your scent. It comforts me,” Sanghyeok admitted quietly, then blurted out a follow-up in a hurry, “I—uh, just wanted to let you know.” It’s the heat talking, he should have added, but somehow the words remain stuck in his throat.
When he heard the admission, Jihoon’s hand stilled and his lips parted with a small ‘oh.’ He hadn’t expected that at all. To have Sanghyeok admit that to him, in heat but coherent and rational enough, nestled snugly in his arms and looking up at him with those genuine eyes and the beautiful shy curl of his lips. Jihoon wasn’t sure if he could recover from this moment.
Jihoon inhaled Sanghyeok’s scent sharply and something in the back of his mind felt like something’s fraying, on the verge of snapping.
Oh fuck.
In an instant, Jeonggyun was standing right beside them, a hand on each of their shoulders, “alright, I think it’s time for Jihoon to go back to his room and rest.” The weight of their coach’s hand on his shoulder snapped Jihoon back to reality. The younger man was about to disentangle himself only to be stopped by Sanghyeok who tightened his arms around him.
It was a mistake to look at Sanghyeok’s face, because what he saw had not only made his chest ache but nearly made his inner alpha bore its fangs.
Despite the resigned expression, Sanghyeok’s eyes looked absolutely devastated when he heard that Jihoon had to go. He doesn’t understand it himself. Doesn’t know why the thought of Jihoon leaving his room was enough to send the wave of anxiety crashing right back at him in full force.
“Sanghyeok-ah, it’s not—” Jeonggyun cuts himself off as he took a step back at the sudden acidic and sour smell that was now being emitted by the older midlaner, while whimpers from the two younger omegas could be heard from across the room.
Jihoon's own scent spiked with a spicy note as he nearly snarled in irritation at the fact that someone made Sanghyeok upset to the point that his distress leaked in the air. But the urge to calm the omega pushed aside the bubbling anger that was slowly simmering from within the young alpha.
He could get angry later, but right now he needed to comfort the anxious omega.
“Sanghyeok hyung,” Jihoon coaxed the older midlaner to meet his eyes, smiling softly when he saw the confused look on the latter’s face, “you need to rest tonight, I’ll check up on you from time to time, okay? But I can’t physically stay here anymore.” He explained slowly.
Sanghyeok’s eyebrows furrowed in displeasure, “but why?” he asked, seemingly lost and confused as to why Jihoon had to leave so soon when he just got here.
“I don’t want to do anything that might hurt you, hyung,” Jihoon forced himself to say it through clenched teeth, frowning at the mere thought of seeing those tears again. He would never forgive himself if he became the cause of those tears. It would haunt him even to his next life.
“But you wouldn’t, right?”
“I won’t, but I’m still an alpha, hyung, and you smell so good right now that it’s getting dangerous.” Jihoon’s nose tingled from the lingering sweetness despite everything else. He could taste the tingling temptation in his tongue. He grinded his teeth together, mentally scolding to himself to stay calm and collected and to not give into the temptation of the enticingly sweet scent.
“Just a few days, Sanghyeok-ah,” Jeonggyun patted Jihoon’s back as a sign, to which Jihoon mustered enough strength to be able to disentangle himself from Sanghyeok, a little reluctant to do so.
Sanghyeok pursed his lips tightly but acceded, the downturn of his mouth accentuating the sadness glossing over his teary eyes.
Jihoon fixed the sheets over Sanghyeok before he promptly got off the bed and was about to follow Jeonggyun out but stopped in his tracks when he felt a light tug on the hem of his shirt.
“What is it?” Jihoon turned to look at the older man, face softening upon seeing the abashed expression on his face as Sanghyeok fiddled the sheets with his free hand.
“…scent…”
“Hmm?”
Sanghyeok scrunched his nose before looking up to meet his gaze, cheeks flushed prettily before he obediently tilted his head down and oh, Jihoon froze. He knew enough about their secondary gender to know what that gesture meant.
Cautiously, Jihoon shifted his shaky gaze to meet Jeonggyun’s steady one, knowing that the older alpha had caught the gesture as well. He was unsure how to proceed with the silent request.
On one hand, Jihoon doesn’t want to further upset Sanghyeok by telling him no considering how distressed he was earlier, and that he just didn’t have the heart to upset him in general.
On the other hand, Jihoon wasn’t even sure if he was allowed to carry out the request, especially with their head coach and the older midlaner’s teammates present and bearing witness to it.
Smelling the anxiety starting to seep into the air, the bitter green tea smell nearly made Jihoon cave in to the request without seeking approval from the head coach. But he bit his tongue to control himself from giving in to his impulse.
“Sanghyeok-ah, are you sure?” Jeonggyun asked to clarify if he knew what he was exactly asking for.
“Yes, it calms me,” Sanghyeok replied almost immediately, peeking up through his bangs and shifted his gaze to Jihoon for a moment, eyes softening, “his scent calms me.”
Jeonggyun didn't know how to deny his request, because how can he with how Sanghyeok and Jihoon looked at each other?
“Alright, but be quick,” Jeonggyun ushered Jihoon back towards the waiting older midlaner, staying in his spot just in case things would get out of hand.
Unable to stop the smile from growing on his face, Sanghyeok perked up with his back straight, eyes trained on Jihoon who sported a similar smile on his face. The bitter green tea smell diffused and was replaced by the sweet rose. The moment Jihoon stood in front of Sanghyeok, the latter reached out to him with both hands and Jihoon gently grabbed hold of his wrists and leaned down, rubbing his scent glands on Sanghyeok’s wrists slowly and thoroughly.
Jihoon nearly melted when he heard the faint purrs coming from Sanghyeok. Excitement zinged through his blood as a burst of warmth had spread from his chest, his inner alpha satisfied upon knowing how happy he made the older omega with his gestures.
After Jihoon finished scenting him, he was about to step back but paused when he saw Sanghyeok ducked his head again. Jihoon quickly looked at Jeonggyun for another silent inquiry and was met with another defeated smile from their coach.
Knowing how certain Sanghyeok was as well with his request, Jihoon stepped closer and leaned down again, rubbing his scent glands on Sanghyeok’s face while he still holding onto his wrists. He reveled in the privilege of being on the receiving end of the happy purrs and nuzzles Sanghyeok was giving in return.
“Is that okay?” Jihoon asked afterwards, stepping back and gingerly releasing the older man’s hands, taking the time to admire the adoringly soft smile Sanghyeok wore.
“More than okay, thank you, Jihoon-ah.” Sanghyeok murmured softly, pulling his hands close to himself, “I apologize for asking this from you…I am sure that it is quite puzzling.”
Jihoon laughed softly and shook his head, “It’s fine, if it helps you and makes you happy, just don’t hesitate to ask for something.” He assured the older midlaner.
“Let’s go now, Jihoon.” Jeonggyun led the younger midlaner towards the door, not noticing how even if Jihoon willingly followed him, there’s a certain heaviness to the young man’s steps. The head coach turned to the two younger omegas who were still huddled together on the side, whispering to one another. “Minseok, Wooje, I’ll leave Sanghyeok in your care.”
Perking up in attention, Minseok nodded dutifully while Wooje started to make his way over on the bed to join their hyung. “Thanks, coach! And good night.” He bid them both with a grateful smile and a thumbs up at Jihoon.
As the two alphas left and the door clicked shut, Minseok walked over to the mini fridge to retrieve two bottles of water before going over to join the two in bed. He momentarily stopped in his tracks, a soft whimper nearly tumbling out of his mouth upon seeing how sad Sanghyeok looked at the closed door.
Thinking back to what had happened earlier, and perhaps even days before, Minseok tried to remember anything that might had happened to understand why their hyung looked sad when Jihoon had to leave, even if it was for his own good.
Sure, they had become close over the past few weeks, always spending time together whether it be practicing together, reviewing and coming up with different strategies, even going to the gym together to do some yoga.
But whenever he saw their hyung, there was nothing out of the ordinary with Sanghyeok’s behavior. Though there may be times that Minseok wasn’t aware of or hadn’t been there to witness it.
Maybe something was going on between them? Maybe they’re more involved than what they thought? Because whatever it was, for Sanghyeok to deeply trust Jihoon to have him around while he was in heat is more telling than any speculations he could come up with.
“Hyungie?”
Minseok broke out from his inner monologue at the sound of Wooje’s hesitant call directed to the elder omega. He quickly went to turn off the lights and made his way back to bed, settling the water bottles on the nightstand.
“Are you alright, Sanghyeok hyung?” Minseok asked as he climbed into bed, settling down on the other side of Sanghyeok and placing his hand over the latter’s forehead to gauge how warm he was. Their hyung continued to stare at the door with a hint of longing in his gaze, hands still pulled close to his chest.
The somber silence from the midlaner broke when he hummed in response, finally tearing his gaze from the door to regard his two teammates with a small smile and a nod. “Yes, I am alright. Did I scare you two? I apologize.”
Wooje shook his head and pouted, “you don’t have to apologize, hyung.” He gave a quick glance at the door then back at Sanghyeok, fidgeting from the lingering question he’s dying to ask but unsure if he should.
Noticing the awkward demeanor of their youngest, Sanghyeok’s smile softened, “My heat may return in a few hours, perhaps just after the sun starts to rise, it’s time I should get some rest.” He told them kindly and moved to lie down, drawing his hands close to his chest.
Minseok and Wooje shared another inquisitive look but subsequently gave in. “Alright, do you want us to stay?” Minseok asked as he tucked their hyung in bed. Sanghyeok paused a moment before nodding slightly, “Only until my heat breaks out again, if it would not be much of a hassle. I might…ask for something before I deal with my heat.” He murmured quietly.
Wooje nodded rather enthusiastically and lied down beside the older omega, “No problem, we’ll stay until then.” He assured him with a wide grin. Minseok hummed in approval and allowed himself to fall back into the still-messy pile of pillows and sheets surrounding them. He wanted to stay and help their hyung through his heat by providing comfort to ease his pain, but he knew how Sanghyeok preferred to isolate himself and ride out his heat on his own.
All Minseok could do was close his eyes and listened to Sanghyeok’s breathing even out as the elder omega fell asleep, his nose buried on his wrists.
The next morning, true to Sanghyeok’s words, Minseok and Wooje were woken up early in the morning due to the intense warmth the elder omega was emitting, their noses attacked by the sharp and sweet rose and strong earthy green tea.
Ushering out a half-asleep Wooje, Minseok repeatedly chanted in his head to remember the request Sanghyeok made the moment he awoke.
‘Jihoon…clothes…please…’
Minseok needed to make a detour after depositing Wooje in his room. He wasn’t aware that he’s being subjected to an alpha-clothes-delivery service role that morning.
It had become a routine for them, whenever their schedules allowed it.
Ever since Jihoon first scented Sanghyeok during the older man's heat, and the latter riding out the days of his agonizing heat with only Jihoon’s scent-reeked used sweater as his only sanity lifeline, something between the two just clicked and fell into place.
After Sanghyeok’s heat ended, Jihoon gravitated to him like a magnet, spending more time with him and looking out for him even more than before.
Sanghyeok was amused with the changes, especially when Jihoon began to fuss in regards of the older man. But Sanghyeok found himself allowing the younger to take care of him and was even looking forward to see the younger midlaner whenever he woke up. His nose would instantly pick up Jihoon’s scent even before the alpha entered the area he’s currently in.
The more time they spent together, the more relaxed Sanghyeok became around him. Comfortable enough to ask for favors and requests from Jihoon who always perked up in happiness from whatever he was asking. Perhaps this was what Minseok meant when he said that alphas get a sense of pride over fulfilling the requests and making omegas happy.
But out of the requests that Sanghyeok asked from Jihoon, being asked to be scented was arguably the favorite request that the younger midlaner got.
At first, Sanghyeok thought it must’ve been awkward to ask Jihoon to scent him out of the blue, especially when his heat had already passed. But the day he hesitantly asked the alpha over breakfast before apologizing immediately for how weird it must’ve sound, Jihoon merely smiled at him fondly.
“Hyung, it’s okay. I told you before, right? If it makes you happy, then feel free to ask me for anything.”
Ever since then, Jihoon made sure to scent Sanghyeok almost regularly. Whether it would be before scrims or matches, or even right before having breakfast, not a day passed by without Jihoon’s scent clinging to Sanghyeok like a warm hug. Pride always bloomed in Jihoon’s chest whenever he heard the satisfied purrs coming from the older man.
When the final match for the Asian Games was a few hours away, the team spent the remaining time either playing a few practice games or going over the plan with the coaches.
When their eyes met from across the room, Sanghyeok gestured Jihoon to follow him outside for a moment, a request Jihoon immediately granted as he excused himself from his conversation with Jinhyeok and made his way outside.
As they stood alone in the empty hallway, Jihoon’s heart nearly stopped when Sanghyeok tipped his chin up at him in another silent request. The older midlaner looked nervous, hands wringing together, yet his eyes shone earnestly with determination.
Before Sanghyeok had the time to second guess himself, Jihoon gave out a happy sound and obediently lowered his head. He didn’t miss how Sanghyeok’s eyes lit up prettily as he stepped closer to the alpha and started to scent him.
“It calms me whenever you do it, I hope it would do the same to you.” Sanghyeok explained after stepping back, a beautiful pink flush dusting his cheeks as he suddenly found interest in picking at the hem of his sleeves. “And for good luck, even though it’ll fade away before the game commences.” He added softly, peeking up at him with a crooked smile.
Jihoon grinned widely, feeling excited and pumped to the point he felt like he could run a marathon and win gold for that too. “Doesn’t matter if it’ll fade, thank you, hyung. We’re definitely getting that gold.” He told him with determination. He had a new fire burning inside him, another fuel adding to the blazing desire.
The smile Sanghyeok gave him in return, with his crescent eyes and pretty heart-shaped smile, shone brighter than any gold in the universe.
They did win gold. And when they stood together on the podium waiting to receive their medals, they were oblivious with how the rest of the roster kept glancing towards their middle, eyes curious. They didn’t comment about the faint notes of sandalwood and oranges mixing harmoniously with green tea and rose.
Even afterwards when they were on their way back to the hotel, when that mixture of scents lingered more evidently in the air, no one said a word about the two midlaners sitting together at the back.
Had it not been for Minseok and Wooje updating their respective mates about the happenings regarding their hyung during Asian Games, Minhyung and Hyunjoon would have been absolutely livid upon witnessing another alpha scenting their pack leader.
At first, they still found it quite hard to believe that their hyung has someone in his life, though the actual status was still quite blurry to pinpoint just what are they exactly even if they were practically scenting each other.
Sure, both Minhyung and Hyunjoon had platonically scented Sanghyeok before, but based off of the reports from their respective mates that Sanghyeok actually purred while being scented by Jihoon, this was definitely something else.
That fact alone was also enough to make both alphas sulk for a while, much to the amusement of Minseok and Wooje.
When they had returned from the Asian Games, Minhyung and Hyunjoon noticed how Sanghyeok seemed to spend more time smiling on his phone, eyes always fond and warm. The alphas were still unsure of the actual intent behind the Gen.G’s midlaner and they wanted to at least interrogate Jihoon further to see if all of his actions towards their leader was out of good faith.
The first time they witnessed it was during the aftermath of the first day of the Swiss Stage for 2023 Worlds.
Although they won the first game of Swiss, the entire team knew how shaky they had been. They knew they needed to wake up immediately in order to be able to continue the chase for their dream.
When everyone was getting ready to leave the venue, Sanghyeok excused himself to go to the restroom. No one batted an eye, but Minhyung noticed how hurried their hyung seemed to be. Concerned, he gathered his teammates and decided to follow their pack leader, just in case he needed someone.
That was when they saw them, standing at a desolated area near the restrooms. The four kids tried to hide themselves away from Sanghyeok and Jihoon’s view, but were still able to peek over the corner to see the two midlaners talking in hushed whispers.
Sanghyeok had his head tipped down, not visibly upset but clearly not unaffected. Jihoon was holding Sanghyeok’s hands, rubbing comforting circles on the back of it with his thumbs.
Whatever Jihoon said, Sanghyeok finally lifted his head and laughed softly. The kids saw how Jihoon’s dark eyes softened with warmth before cracking what seems to be another joke, judging from the way Sanghyeok’s shoulder shook with silent giggles. As the laughter died down between the two, Sanghyeok’s mouth curled up in a wider smile before murmuring an “I have to go now,” and Jihoon promptly released his hold on his hands.
The ’02-liners and their youngest momentarily panicked and decided to bolt out and away from the scene before they got caught, but Minhyung and Hyunjoon stood frozen in their spot when they saw Sanghyeok lowered his head and Jihoon obediently leaning down, scenting the older man.
The last thing both Minhyung and Hyunjoon saw before they were pulled — dragged away by Minseok and Wooje respectively was the genuine delight and content on Sanghyeok’s face.
It’s a good thing that the four had promptly left thereafter. Otherwise, who knows what Minhyung and Hyunjoon would have done if they had caught sight of Jihoon’s tongue flicking out to lick Sanghyeok’s neck over his scent glands, and the way Sanghyeok’s hands curled and grasped onto Jihoon’s jacket, tugging him closer.
“Hyung?” Hyunjoon called out an hour before their game against JDG.
“Yes?” Sanghyeok tore his gaze from the computer screen and found four pairs of eyes on him from the other side of the room.
Minseok gestured the older omega over, seemingly wanting to say something that only the five of them could hear. Sanghyeok abandoned his seat and made his way over to his teammates who scooted over and made some space for him to sit. The elder smiled adoringly at the sight of Wooje applying the scent blocker on Hyunjoon, both their mating marks covered.
“Hyung, is there something going on between you and Jihoon hyung?” Minhyung immediately asked straight to the point, eyes cautious but curious.
Sanghyeok blinked as his mouth parted in surprise, but he composed himself and shook his head, “No, why do you ask?”
“Come on, hyung, we know how you look at him,” Wooje spoke with a huff, handing over the tube to Hyunjoon and presenting his neck to the jungler.
“Yeah, you spend more time on your phone too. You’re talking to him, right?” Hyunjoon asked while dutifully applying the scent blocker on his mate in return.
“Are we also forgetting the fact that Jihoon hyung came to our game against BLG just to scent Sanghyeokie hyung? I mean, he could have used the time to rest or practice more, but he went out of his way for that!” Minseok exclaimed and threw his hands in the air, “Really, hyung! Just tell us, we won’t get mad.” Minseok added with a pout, leaning towards Minhyung and nuzzled closer to his mate.
“I’m surprised he managed to sneak out and came to watch us that day,” Minhyung admitted with a chuckle, curling an arm around the support’s waist and nuzzling his nose against the crown of his head. “You know you can tell us anything, right hyung?”
If Sanghyeok had cat ears, it would have already flattened on his hair as he sighed and looked down on his lap. “I am not lying when I said there’s nothing going on,” he replied softly.
Minseok straightened up, sensing a slight shift in the air. “But?” He reached out to lightly hold onto their hyung’s hand, squeezing his hand to provide reassurance.
Minhyung smiled softly when he saw their hyung fidget, mouth pursed slightly, “Do you want for there to be something?” He supplied helpfully.
Hyunjoon paused midway in applying the scent blocker as they waited with bated breaths for a reply, their leader still pondering on what to respond.
When Sanghyeok finally nodded, Wooje exhaled in relief and slumped against Hyunjoon’s chest, “Our hyung is in love!” He exclaimed, followed by the dramatic sigh coming from Minseok.
Hyunjoon snorted and finished up so that he could wrap an arm around the toplaner’s shoulders. He’s still unsure how to feel about it. For the years he spent together with Sanghyeok, their leader had never once shown any interest in relationships. He always seemed so content being on his own, and had even vocalized it when they asked him years ago.
“Does he…” Hyunjoon swallowed thickly, his face scrunching up to prevent a scowl from coming out, “does he make you happy, hyung?” He asked, locking eyes with their leader.
The obvious tenderness in Sanghyeok’s eyes was enough of an answer already. “Very much so, yes.” Sanghyeok confessed.
“But why-ouch!” Hyunjoon groaned from the jab on his ribs by Wooje who rolled his eyes.
“Yeah, what made you fall for him? And when?” Minseok piped up, eyes shining with curiosity and silent laughter at the whine Hyunjoon gave to their toplaner.
“Wait, does he even like you, hyung?” Hyunjoon suddenly asked, eyes wide in alarm.
Sanghyeok was about to answer Minseok when he stopped at the sudden question, his mind blanking out momentarily.
Before he could overthink, Minseok reached over to lightly jab their jungler on his side. “Of course he does,” their support hissed with narrow eyes, “I could literally smell how head over heels he is for Sanghyeokie hyung. It’s been a while but I’ve never seen Jihoon hyung easily bend for someone. I mean, even after Asian Games, he still sends over his used clothes whenever hyung goes into heat.” Minseok huffed and crossed his arms, cheeks puffed out, “Don’t get me started with him constantly asking us for updates on how hyung is doing during his heat.”
Wooje nodded in agreement, tutting softly at his mate, “If you had seen him during Asian Games, Sanghyeok hyung has him wrapped around his pinky. Not to mention the glares Jihoon hyung shot at other players and athletes who approached hyung to ask for a picture together. I swear Jihoon hyung always pulled hyungie away to scent him afterwards.”
Hearing the accounts stated by his two kids, Sanghyeok ducked his head as he felt his ears heat up from their admissions. He fiddled with the hem of his jacket, blinking slowly as he thought about what to answer Minseok and cleared his throat. “Perhaps it started after my heat—”
“I knew it!”
“Wooje, be quiet! Let hyung speak.” The toplaner stuck his tongue out and pouted.
Sanghyeok cleared his throat again before continuing, “I could not pinpoint the exact day, but as far as I know, I started seeing him in a different light after my heat.” His hand touched his bangs, rubbing a lock of hair between his fingers as he hummed to himself, still gathering his thoughts.
“I find myself constantly seeking for his presence. That everything feels complete when he’s by my side. His scent—and please don’t take this the wrong way, but his scent eases me to the point that I feel like everything is just right with the world again. All the worries and uneasiness vanish when I am engulfed in his scent. Almost like he’s always there to assure me.”
“I can’t believe you just indirectly said you prefer his scent over mine!” Minseok said woefully, playfully hiding his face in between his hands and giggling softly when he heard Sanghyeok spluttered in surprise. “I’m kidding, hyung! I think it’s cute. But my scent is still your favorite, right?”
“Don’t be silly, Minseok hyung, my scent is obviously his favorite.” Wooje singsongs before giving his famous puppy eyes that he knew their hyung could never resist.
“Hey! That’s not fair!” Minseok exclaimed, his hand flying out to cover their toplaner’s eyes with a whine.
“So, you fell for him because of his scent?” Minhyung interjected gently, chuckling at the playful squabble between the two omegas.
Sanghyeok smiled warmly at the sight of Minseok pulling Wooje in to lightly pull his cheeks in revenge. He hummed and shook his head at their botlaner, “He makes me feel included. Sees me for who I really am, not for who I am perceived to be. He always looks out for me even though I am older than him and could take care of myself. I do not recall a time when he wasn’t by my side outside of official games.” He recounted with a warm smile, the tone of his voice practically dripping with affection.
“He worries for me when I do not see any reason that would warrant any worries about it. He respects me and my decisions, setting boundaries even though I do not mind it. He constantly assures me. He makes me happy.” Sanghyeok finished with a whisper, ducking his head again as he felt the heat creep up to his neck and over his cheeks once more. The blush darkening at the sound of his teammates cooing at their blushing hyung.
“Hyung is down so bad!” Minseok squealed and giggled, clapping in happiness at the fact that their leader finally found someone.
“Guess we don’t have much of a say in it anymore, eh?” Hyunjoon groaned softly, leaning down to rest his cheek against Wooje’s shoulder while he wrapped his arms around the latter’s waist. “I still want to interrogate him though.”
“I second that.” Minhyung nodded in agreement, smiling ruefully, “We just want to make things extra sure, hyung.”
Sanghyeok sighed but chuckled softly at how his teammates, although seemingly supportive, still wanted to make sure that he was in good hands. At times like this, Sanghyeok felt like he was the one being surrounded by four older brothers.
‘Well, more like four overly protective pups.’ Sanghyeok thought lovingly as he gazed at them.
He stood up and turned to face his family, who perked up in attention. “I understand, just go easy on him, alright?” He murmured with affection towards his kids, “now enough of that, let’s just focus on our games, are we clear?” Four heads nodded in sync.
“Good,” Sanghyeok smiled and leaned down, tenderly nosing each of their foreheads one at a time and basking at the soft purrs coming from his kids.
He’s lucky to have them. His four precious treasures.
Sanghyeok felt like he’s floating.
After seven long years filled with countless challenges, he finally lifted the Summoner’s Cup once again. Through the roller coaster of a ride that this year was, their team defied every odd against them and clawed their way up, tearing through the last few feats with such ferocity and had finally achieved their dreams.
Back at their waiting room, Sanghyeok visibly melted seeing the bursting happiness in the faces of his pack. Pride radiated from his entire being as Sanghyeok was graced with the melodious laughter of his kids. They had come a long way. They had grown so much. His four darling stars.
“Hyung?” Sanghyeok shook himself out of his thoughts and saw Wooje pointing towards his phone on the table, screen lit from the constantly popping notifications. Thanking him, Sanghyeok picked his phone up and unlocked it, seeing various notifications of different messages, but one caught his attention.
With a curl of his lips, Sanghyeok excused himself and proceeded to leave the room. The smile on his face grew when his kids promptly cheered him on.
Sanghyeok easily spotted Jihoon at the far end of the corridor, even when the latter had a mask and cap on. He pursed his lips together to stop the silly grin from growing even more as he made his way over to the waiting figure.
“Congratulations,” Jihoon greeted him warmly, eyes shaky for some odd reason.
The older of the two looked around to quickly survey their surroundings. There were still a few staff running around here and there. “Shall we talk in a more private area?” Sanghyeok suggested with a head tilt. Jihoon practically cooed at how adorable the elder looks right now.
“I think I saw an empty room earlier,” Jihoon nodded to his request, hesitating for a moment before extending his hand out to him. If Sanghyeok noticed the slight tremors in his hand, he didn’t comment on it and simply held his hand back, allowing Jihoon to guide him to the said area.
Safe from the possibility of prying eyes, Sanghyeok looked up to meet Jihoon’s eyes and smiled back warmly. “Thank you, Jihoon-ah,” he glanced down at their hands, noting how Jihoon has yet to release his hold on him. Not that Sanghyeok minded, of course.
“You guys were insane, it’s like you went all god mode!” Jihoon’s laughter rang out like chimes, the mask doing little to muffle the adoring sound.
“My teammates are amazing, they had come so far.” Sanghyeok agreed with a chuckle, his fingers twitching from the sudden urge to pull the seemingly offending mask off of Jihoon’s face. He held Jihoon’s hand tighter instead.
“You were too, hyung,” Jihoon’s eyes turned to crescents as well and Sanghyeok could perfectly picture his wide toothy grin, “your movements were smooth and clean. You really smurfed the last few teamfights as well.”
Sanghyeok quickly looked away and fixed his gaze down on the floor, wanting to hide the blush dusting over his cheeks. “That is very kind of you to say, thank you.”
“Are you getting shy?”
“N-no…”
“Is hyung blushing?” Jihoon leaned down to try and meet his eyes to which Sanghyeok stubbornly looked away, earning another fond laugh.
“You don’t have to be shy around me, you know, didn’t we have this conversation a few months ago?” Jihoon pointed out, feeling ecstatic at how Sanghyeok was openly displaying various emotions right in front of him. It made him feel special.
“We have,” Sanghyeok inhaled softly, gathering enough strength to finally look up and meet his eyes. Wordlessly, like clockwork, Sanghyeok lowered his head again in a familiar request just as Jihoon finally ditched his hat and mask and leaned down.
This time, however, just before Jihoon started scenting him, Sanghyeok freed his hand from Jihoon’s warm one in favor of brushing his hands up the expanse of the younger man’s shoulders before resting still.
Sanghyeok’s mind immediately began racing with doubt, overthinking that maybe he had read the signs wrongly and that Jihoon might not understood what he was trying to actually say.
All the doubt was silenced, though, when Sanghyeok felt a pair of large warm hands settle on his waist and was pulled closer.
“Are you sure?” Jihoon asked softly, lightly nosing the crown of his head. His hold on the older man’s waist firm but light, allowing Sanghyeok to easily pull out if he wanted to.
Sanghyeok didn’t. He remained close to Jihoon, even leaning closer so that he could rest his forehead against the young man’s chest.
Sanghyeok hummed and nodded, eyes fluttering close as soft purrs vibrated from deep within his chest once he’s being scented. He sighed softly at the feeling of feather-soft kisses that Jihoon was trailing from his forehead down to the side of his face, and finally to his neck where he left a lingering kiss on his scent glands.
When Jihoon inhaled deeply, Sanghyeok didn’t bother fighting back the shiver that racked his whole body. “Sanghyeok hyung,” Jihoon nosed at his neck, sighing happily as the familiar green tea and rose scent started to become more prominent and filling his soul with the lovely essence. “You smell so good, hyung.”
“My heat is in two days.” Sanghyeok whispered back shakily, a soft whimper escaping his lips as he rubbed his cheek against Jihoon’s head. The hands on his waist tightened just as when Jihoon took the first lick at his neck after days of not scenting the older man. He tasted divine.
“Is it now?” Jihoon hummed, starting to feel a bit dazed from the enticing scent that dominated his entire senses, but he still had the strength to pull away from the older man’s neck to look at him properly. “Do you want more of my clothes?”
Sanghyeok’s knees went weak when he saw how dark Jihoon’s eyes had become. He swallowed thickly, mouth running dry as he licked his lips. He didn’t miss the way Jihoon’s eyes focused on his lips.
“No need, we have enough time to thoroughly talk about this.” Sanghyeok rasped out, his fingers digging into Jihoon’s shoulders.
“About what?”
“About us, Jihoon-ah.”
That snapped Jihoon out of the scent haze, blinking rapidly as he stared at Sanghyeok as if he had grown another head.
“Hyung, are you suggesting…” When Sanghyeok nodded bashfully, Jihoon would have pinched himself to make sure he’s currently awake and that everything that was currently happening was not a dream.
But that would mean he had to release Sanghyeok from his hold. Jihoon didn’t want that, he would rather keep holding him.
“I did not…I hadn’t misread the signs, did I?” Sanghyeok asked, biting and chewing down his lower lip in worry. Jihoon looked so surprised at what he said. Had the alpha not expected it? His blood ran cold as his breath hitched from a sudden thought, tensing up, terribly afraid that he might have indeed misread it.
His distress must have leaked into his scent because Jihoon immediately leaned down to comfortingly lick at his neck. “Hyung, calm down, you aren’t wrong.” The younger man assured him, hushing him softly when Sanghyeok whined weakly in response.
Jihoon nosed at Sanghyeok’s cheek for a moment before he pressed their foreheads together, looking deeply into the older man’s eyes with a soft smile. “I was supposed to confess to you, but I guess you indirectly beat me to it.” He admitted with a light chuckle, one hand coming up to gently coax Sanghyeok to stop chewing his lower lip while his other hand remained a constant weight on his waist.
“Is that so?” Sanghyeok asked breathlessly, his pupils dilating from both affection and the haze of Jihoon’s scent that he was releasing.
“Yeah, I’ve wanted to for a while now, but I just never found the right moment.” Jihoon shrugged lightly and grinned boyishly, “But hey, at least we’re here now.”
Sanghyeok visibly relaxed and nodded again, exhaling shakily as the cold promptly left his body. He allowed himself to focus on the way Jihoon was slowly brushing his lower lip with his thumb. One peek into the younger man’s eyes and Sanghyeok could see what Jihoon wanted. Could see the longing in the alpha’s eyes.
“It’s alright, Jihoonie, I don’t mind. But promise me that we will have this conversation later, after I am finished with my obligations for tonight.” Sanghyeok whispered, afraid to speak louder in case it ruined the moment.
“Anything for you, hyung. I’ll come and pick you up later.” Jihoon promised, his hand dropping down to his chin and tilted Sanghyeok’s head upward before surging forward to meet him halfway, finally claiming the older man’s lips in a slow kiss.
Every whimper and moan Sanghyeok gave, Jihoon eagerly swallowed. Slow and sweet, both savoring every millisecond their lips moved against one another. Sanghyeok lost track of how long they’ve been kissing. He was too enamored with how tender but eager Jihoon was kissing him.
It was only when he started to feel lightheaded that they both pulled back from the kiss.
“So beautiful.” Jihoon said in awe, committing to eternal memory the way Sanghyeok looked so dazed after the kiss, the loveliest blush settling prettily on his cheeks, his lips kiss-swollen. Jihoon could feel a growl deep inside him, the strongest urge to devour his lips once again, harder, deeper, but he pushed that feeling aside.
He’ll save that for later.
“I have to go now, they must be looking for me.” Sanghyeok said, gasping softly when Jihoon dove back down and pressed kisses and licks on his neck, “Jihoon—”
A playful nip. A whine.
“Alright alright, but let me scent you again.” Jihoon gave one last playful nip before pulling away from Sanghyeok’s neck, his hand coming up to gently cradle Sanghyeok’s flushed cheek. “You’re so red, hyung~” Jihoon teased, snickering softly as the older man pinched his arm in retaliation.
“Just scent me already,” Sanghyeok grumbled with a huff, the pout on his face not lasting for even a five seconds as another smile replaced it the moment he was being scented.
It’s different this time, Sanghyeok could smell it. The notes of comfort and assurance still lingered, but there’s a new layer of threat hidden beneath it. A wordless warning to others that he is not to be touched so casually anymore. A silent promise to him that soon, they would belong to each other.
Sanghyeok looked forward to the days where Jihoon’s scent will be a permanent fixature on his own person.
Another year had passed and Jihoon still doesn’t understand why they had to arrive early in the morning when the scheduled shoot was still in the afternoon. When he and his team arrived at the set, someone could have mistaken him for a zombie and he wouldn’t even be offended by it. His mind was half-asleep, his body still floating around thinking that he was still lying in the soft sheets of his bed.
But here he was currently, with his jacket discarded by his side, half-sitting half-lying on the couch, eyes staring blankly at the wall while the soft chatters of other players around him acted as white noise.
Jihoon’s nose twitched, picking up a faint scent that he knew all too well. He instantly sat up, energy pumping fast into his system as any traces of sleep was wiped out in a heartbeat. A bright smile broke out across his face upon seeing the five newcomers, his eyes focusing on the leader of the pack before his mouth dipped into a worried frown when he saw him.
If Jihoon looked tired, Sanghyeok looked even more so. His pace slower than usual, his eyes nearly closing.
What worried Jihoon was how tense Sanghyeok looked, his hands clenching and unclenching by his side as he walked. Minhyung had his hand on Sanghyeok’s back, seemingly guiding their leader as they walked. Jihoon immediately glanced at the rest of the players from T1, noting with relief that there’s not an ounce of concern painting Minseok and Wooje’s face.
Maybe Sanghyeok was just tired and wanted to sleep more. Although that wasn’t good as well considering they had a long day ahead, at least it wasn’t anything serious.
Minseok appeared to spot the Gen.G midlaner, hurriedly tugging his mate’s sleeve and pointed over to where Jihoon was. At the mention of his name, Sanghyeok appeared to liven up a little, eyes blinking into alertness as he scanned the room before settling on the couch where Jihoon was currently occupying.
Sanghyeok exchanged a few words with his teammates before he broke away from them and made his way over to Jihoon. The Gen.G midlaner swallowed thickly when he saw the stares that both Minhyung and Hyunjoon were giving him. He smiled tentatively and nodded his head, but it was only returned by the alphas’ respective mates with a wave.
Minseok nudged Minhyung and huffed at him, and only then did T1’s botlaner tore his gaze away from Jihoon to smile sheepishly at their support.
Jihoon’s attention shifted to Sanghyeok. He pushed himself off the couch and stood to greet his hyung.
“Sanghyeok hyung—”
The greeting didn’t even make it out before Jihoon was pushed back down on the couch by Sanghyeok. “Hyung?” The younger man squeaked in surprise.
If the earlier action was surprising, Jihoon’s eyes widened the moment Sanghyeok plopped himself down on Jihoon’s lap without warning or explanation at all. Jihoon quickly looked around, highly aware that they were still in a public place with several other players around them.
He should’ve felt nervous, but the fact that Sanghyeok seemed to not even mind and was even initiating it himself meant that the older man was either too tired to process what he was doing, or he just doesn’t mind at all.
“Still drowsy, let me worry about whatever comes afterwards later.” As if reading his mind, Sanghyeok finally provided him with an explanation while he shifted in Jihoon’s lap, trying to find a comfortable position. When he finally settled with a small but satisfied sound, Sanghyeok leaned back against Jihoon’s chest and pulled his legs up to his chest, curling up and yawning widely.
The shock quickly wore off as Jihoon wrapped his arms securely around Sanghyeok, pulling him closer and leaning back into the couch. His inner alpha seeking to provide him with utmost comfort and satisfaction, others be damned. “Don’t be silly, we’ll worry about it together.” Jihoon murmured back softly, grabbing onto his jacket and draping it over Sanghyeok as a makeshift blanket, removing the older’s glasses in the process and settling it down to the side.
“Comfortable?”
“Immensely, thank you.”
Jihoon smiled fondly, nosing Sanghyeok's forehead for a moment before dropping a quick kiss. “Anything for you.” He replied quietly, leaning further down to lightly nose at the covered part of the older man’s neck where the mating bite sat prettily. He could feel the soft vibrations of Sanghyeok’s purr as Jihoon placed another kiss right over where the mating bite was, pleased to know that his mate was happy.
“Get some sleep, hyung, I’ll wake you when we’ll be called up.” Jihoon rested his cheek on Sanghyeok’s head, closing his eyes as well while Sanghyeok buried his face on his mate’s neck, his breathing evening out almost immediately as he drifted off to a peaceful slumber.
Unbeknownst to the two napping midlaners, almost majority of the players currently in the area — with the exception of Sanghyeok’s team — that had seen what happened all froze up in shock. Some had eyes wide as saucers. Some with jaws dropped and hanging. A small fraction of those who unfroze hurriedly looked away, ears heating up and feeling that they’ve seen something that they shouldn’t have.
Very few of the players, especially Gen.G’s own support, sprinted towards T1’s support with the intention of catching up with gossip and seeking confirmation in hopes of taking home the victory from numerous bets made months and even years ago.
If any other players present were on the brink of falling asleep, they all had without a doubt awoken as if they had just downed three shots of espresso after witnessing what had just happened.
It certainly was going to be a long day.