Work Text:
Park Seonghwa was scared—utterly frazzled, bewildered, and terrified. He was to be mated to the Alpha of the Dune Pack, and its weight pressed down on him like a storm cloud. It wasn't Hongjoong himself that frightened him; the Alpha had been kind in their brief interactions. It was the title, Alpha, that sent waves of panic through him.
Alphas were known to be ruthless, treating Omegas as nothing more than vessels for their offspring, pawns to expand their lineage. The thought of that inevitability chilled Seonghwa to the core. He wanted children someday, but not now—not when his life still felt so unfinished. There were dreams yet to chase, things to learn, and places to see.
The reception hall buzzed with muted laughter and clinking glasses, a stark contrast to Seonghwa's spiraling thoughts. Beside him, Hongjoong held his hand gently, his thumb grazing soothing circles against Seonghwa's trembling fingers.
"I don't get them," Hongjoong mumbled suddenly, breaking the silence between them.
Seonghwa blinked, startled, and looked up at him. "Don't get what?"
"Heats," Hongjoong clarified, his tone almost shy, as if admitting a fault. "You're safe with me, Seonghwa-ya, I promise. I won't do anything without your consent."
The Alpha's voice was steady and reassuring, and it made Seonghwa's chest tighten with an emotion he didn't want to name.
"We just have to mate once," Hongjoong continued, his voice lowering to avoid the ears of their guests. "For the marriage to be official. That's all. Is it okay with you?"
Seonghwa nodded hesitantly, swallowing hard. Hongjoong's words felt like a lifeline in the chaos of his thoughts. He latched onto them, not realizing the weight they carried.
He didn't know what it meant for an Alpha to "not get heats." He didn't understand how deeply it could affect Hongjoong, or how it would ripple through their bond. Eight months later, he'd learn the truth—and by then, it would change everything.
It had been eight months since their wedding, and their daily routines had settled into a predictable rhythm. Before work, they would scent each other—a small ritual that always ended with Hongjoong pressing a soft kiss to Seonghwa's forehead. At night, they'd curl up together, letting their wolves bask in the comfort of their bond.
But lately, something was wrong. Terribly wrong.
The vibrant spark that once defined their connection seemed to be fading. Hongjoong's wolf, usually spirited and eager in the presence of its mate, had become eerily quiet—a mere shadow of itself. Scenting, once an intimate exchange filled with warmth and reassurance, had turned into a mechanical chore, devoid of any real affection. The Alpha's need to cuddle and seek Seonghwa's closeness had dwindled, and more often than not, Hongjoong would retreat to bed alone while Seonghwa stayed up late in the living room, engrossed in Animal Crossing.(where they would cuddle before)
It was as if the foundation of their bond was crumbling, and neither of them knew how to stop it.
Hongjoong, perpetually exhausted, barely had the energy to fulfill Seonghwa's growing desires, leaving their intimacy to stagnate. Even the small gestures they used to share felt hollow now—motions without meaning. Seonghwa's wolf, once content and peaceful, had grown restless, pacing endlessly within him. His heart would pound unnaturally fast, and the heat cramps that had been manageable before now struck with unbearable intensity.
Seonghwa knew Hongjoong's habit of sweeping problems under the rug—avoiding them until they became impossible to ignore. But this time, Seonghwa wasn't going to let that happen.
He couldn't.
He needed answers, and more importantly, he needed help.
There was only one person who could guide him in times like these: Jung Wooyoung, the pack's official Omega and a skilled nurse. If anyone could help him understand what was happening to Hongjoong—and how to fix it—it was Wooyoung.
Seonghwa wasn't sure what he'd uncover, but one thing was certain: he wouldn't let this silence destroy them.
Seonghwa wandered through the expansive halls of the mansion, the polished floors echoing softly beneath his steps. His heart pounded harder with every turn he took, the familiar anxiety gnawing at his insides. He was searching for the one person he trusted to help him unravel the tangle of emotions and confusion swirling within him.
Wooyoung's room wasn't hard to find—its distinct purple and silver decor always stood out, a reflection of Wooyoung's vibrant personality. He could already picture Wooyoung curled up with San, the other omega's calming presence anchoring the lively Omega in a way that always made Seonghwa envious of their seamless bond.
Finally, he reached the door. Taking a deep breath to steady himself, Seonghwa raised his hand and knocked lightly. The muffled sound of rustling reached his ears, followed by a few hurried footsteps. The door creaked open, and there stood Wooyoung, his bright smile lighting up the dim hallway like a beacon.
"Hyungieee!" Wooyoung chirped, his voice brimming with warmth and familiarity as he grabbed Seonghwa's wrist and pulled him inside. "What's going on? Are you okay?"
Wooyoung's sharp eyes scanned Seonghwa's face, his smile softening when he noticed the worry etched into the Omega's features. He guided Seonghwa to sit on the plush sofa near the window, draped with a quilt that bore San's scent.
"What's wrong, Hwa?" Wooyoung asked again, this time his tone gentler, concerned. He crouched in front of Seonghwa, his hands resting lightly on Seonghwa's knees. "You look like you've been carrying the world on your shoulders."
Seonghwa swallowed hard, trying to suppress the emotions bubbling to the surface. Wooyoung's genuine concern was both comforting and disarming.
Seonghwa hesitated, his hands wringing together in his lap as he struggled to find the right words. Wooyoung's unwavering gaze and gentle touch only made it harder to hold back the torrent of emotions threatening to spill over.
"It's Hongjoong," Seonghwa finally said, his voice barely above a whisper. He looked away, focusing on the intricate patterns on Wooyoung's quilt instead of meeting his friend's eyes. "Something's wrong with him. With us."
Wooyoung's brows furrowed slightly, his instincts immediately kicking in. He moved to sit beside Seonghwa, tucking his legs under himself and leaning in closer. "Wrong how?" he asked softly, his voice free of judgment.
Seonghwa exhaled shakily, finally letting himself speak the truth he'd been holding onto. "It's like he's... disappearing. His wolf feels distant, almost like it's fading. He doesn't scent me the same way anymore, and he doesn't want to cuddle like he used to. Even when we're together, it feels like we're miles apart."
Wooyoung nodded, encouraging him to continue.
"And it's not just him," Seonghwa admitted, his voice cracking. "My wolf—I'm restless all the time. My heats are worse than ever, and I don't know what's happening. I feel like we're breaking, Wooyoung-ah, and I don't know how to fix it."
The room was quiet for a moment, the only sound the faint rustle of leaves outside the window. Wooyoung reached out, gently placing a hand on Seonghwa's shoulder. "Hyung," he said firmly, "we'll figure this out. But first, tell me—has anything changed with Hongjoong hyung lately? Is he stressed, overworked, or... is he hiding something?"
Seonghwa blinked, taken aback by the last question. "Hiding something?"
Wooyoung tilted his head, his sharp intuition shining through. "Yeah. Sometimes Alphas don't know how to handle their emotions, and they bottle things up. It can affect their wolves—and their bond with their mates. Has he mentioned anything? Health issues, maybe?"
Seonghwa's mind raced. Hongjoong had always been a private person, someone who avoided confronting problems head-on. He shook his head slowly. "Not that I know of, but..." His voice trailed off as a memory surfaced.
"What?" Wooyoung prompted, leaning forward.
Seonghwa hesitated, the words tasting foreign on his tongue. "Before the wedding, he said he doesn't get heats. I didn't think much of it at the time, but now I wonder... could that have something to do with this?"
Wooyoung's eyes widened, his lips parting in realization. "He doesn't get heats?" he repeated, his tone suddenly serious. He stood abruptly, pacing the room as his mind worked through the implications. "Hyung, that's not normal. Suppressing heats—whether intentionally or not—can seriously mess with an Alpha's wolf. If he's been taking suppressants, that might explain everything."
Suppressants. The word hit Seonghwa like a blow, and his stomach churned. "Suppressants?" he echoed weakly.
Wooyoung nodded, his expression grim. "It's dangerous, especially long-term. It could be why his wolf feels so distant—and why your wolf is reacting the way it is Because you're mated now...." He trailed off, biting his lip.
Seonghwa's heart sank. The puzzle pieces were starting to come together, and the picture they formed was far more dire than he'd anticipated. "What do I do?" he asked, his voice barely audible.
Wooyoung stopped pacing and turned to face him, his eyes filled with determination. "First, we need to confirm if he's been using suppressants. Then, we'll figure out a way to help him—and your bond—heal. It won't be easy
Seonghwa had seen it countless times—the small, discreet vial Hongjoong would reach for, the practiced motion of swallowing a suppressant like it was second nature. Every time, the Alpha would wave off his concerns with a casual, "Don't worry, I've been doing this for years."
But tonight, something inside Seonghwa snapped. To say he felt betrayed was an understatement.
The moment Hongjoong stepped inside their apartment, weary from the day, Seonghwa was already waiting, his arms crossed and his jaw clenched.
"Hwa? What's wrong—"
Before Hongjoong could finish his sentence, Seonghwa surged forward, grabbing his mate by the collar and kissing him fiercely. At first, Hongjoong tried to reciprocate, his movements awkward and hesitant, but Seonghwa pulled away just as quickly as he had initiated it.
His eyes burned with unshed tears, and his voice trembled with both anger and pain. "Not even this?" he whispered, his tone sharp and cutting.
"Seonghwa, what are you—"
"Shut up," the Omega hissed, grabbing Hongjoong's wrist and dragging him down the hallway.
Hongjoong stumbled after him, confused and guilt-ridden. "Hwa, where are we—"
"I said shut up."
Seonghwa didn't stop until they reached Wooyoung's door. He knocked twice before pushing it open without waiting for a response. Inside, Wooyoung was waiting, his expression a mix of concern and determination.
The silence that followed was heavy, broken only by Wooyoung's even voice. "The results are in," he said, looking directly at Hongjoong. "You need to have a rut."
Hongjoong stiffened, his entire body recoiling as though Wooyoung had struck him. Anxiety curled in his chest, tightening until he could barely breathe. "I don't want to have a rut," he managed to say, his voice cracking.
"Your body doesn't care what you want," Wooyoung replied, his tone firm but sympathetic. "It's not leaving you a choice anymore."
"It's worked so far," Hongjoong muttered, his gaze darting to Seonghwa, who stood fuming beside him. "I don't see why—"
"Because you're mated!" Seonghwa interrupted, his voice breaking as he finally let his emotions spill over.
Hongjoong's head snapped toward him, and the hurt look in Seonghwa's eyes was enough to make the Alpha's walls start to crumble.
"My wolf needs you, Joongie," Seonghwa said, his voice trembling. "I need you. You've been shutting me out, and I've tried to be patient, but I can't do it anymore. I feel rejected. I feel useless."
Hongjoong opened his mouth to respond, but Seonghwa cut him off, his voice rising. "If you won't do this for yourself, then do it for me. Do it for us."
The weight of those words settled heavily in the room. Hongjoong's gaze dropped to the floor, his throat tight with unshed tears.
Wooyoung, sensing the tension between them, spoke softly. "You've been suppressing yourself for so long, Hyung. It's no wonder your wolf feels distant, and it's affecting Seonghwa Hyung too. But you don't have to face this alone. You have your mate now."
Hongjoong swallowed hard, his hands trembling as he nodded reluctantly. "Fine," he said, his voice barely audible. "I'll do it."
Later that night, Hongjoong lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. The anxiety was still there, gnawing at him like an insistent shadow. Memories of his last rut—painful, uncontrollable, violent—rose unbidden in his mind. He had been alone then, barely able to handle the intensity of it, and the thought of facing it again terrified him.
The bed dipped slightly as Seonghwa joined him, the Omega's presence grounding in its familiarity. Hongjoong didn't move, his eyes fluttering shut as he tried to ignore the guilt bubbling in his chest.
"You're not sleeping," Seonghwa murmured, his voice soft in the quiet room.
Hongjoong sighed, finally turning toward his mate. "I'm scared, Hwa," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.
Seonghwa's expression softened, and he reached out to cup Hongjoong's face, his thumb gently brushing against the Alpha's cheek. "I know you are," he said, his voice steady. "But you're not alone this time. I'm here. Your mate is here."
Hongjoong's chest tightened, his emotions threatening to spill over. "What if I hurt you?" he asked, his voice cracking.
"You won't," Seonghwa replied firmly. "I trust you. My omega trusts your alpha. And no matter how hard it gets, we'll face it together."
Hongjoong let out a shaky breath, his arms instinctively wrapping around Seonghwa and pulling him close. He buried his face in the Omega's neck, inhaling the calming scent of strawberries that always seemed to soothe him.
"Go on," Seonghwa said softly, his fingers threading through Hongjoong's hair with a gentleness that belied the tension simmering in the room. His voice was calm, but his eyes carried a quiet insistence. "Tell me why you take them."
Hongjoong swallowed hard, his gaze fixed on the ceiling as if searching for the right words. A long silence passed before he finally spoke, his voice low and raw.
"You know how Alphas need to knot during their ruts, or they'll get sick right?" he began, his tone laced with hesitation. "I was seventeen when my first one hit. I didn't even know what was happening at first—it felt like my body was on fire, like I was being ripped apart from the inside out. I lost control, Hwa."
Seonghwa's fingers paused briefly in his hair, then resumed their soothing strokes.
"I broke everything in the house," Hongjoong continued, his voice growing tighter. "Smashed furniture, punched holes in the walls. My mom tried to help, but I lashed out at her too. I didn't mean to, but I couldn't stop myself. I still see the fear in her eyes when I think about it."
Hongjoong's jaw clenched, and he turned his face away, as though ashamed to meet Seonghwa's gaze.
"It got so bad they forced me to go to a brothel," he admitted, his voice dropping to a whisper. "They said it was the only way to deal with it if I didn't have a mate. But I couldn't do it, Hwa. I couldn't... I couldn't touch someone who might've been trafficked or forced into that life. I kept thinking about how wrong it was. How I'd be part of the problem."
Seonghwa's breath hitched, but he stayed quiet, letting Hongjoong continue.
"I refused," Hongjoong said firmly, though his voice cracked. "Even when they told me I didn't have a choice, I refused. I didn't want to be that person. But the ruts kept coming, and I couldn't just... endure them forever. So I made a choice. I started taking suppressants."
He finally turned his head to look at Seonghwa, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I thought it was the best way to handle it. The only way. I'd rather suffer through the side effects than become someone I hate."
Seonghwa's hand stilled in his hair, and he leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to Hongjoong's forehead.
"Baby," he murmured, his voice heavy with emotion, ""I'm so proud of you"
Hongjoong closed his eyes, his breath hitching as Seonghwa's scent—warm and familiar, like strawberries and safety—wrapped around him.
"You're not alone anymore," Seonghwa continued, his voice trembling slightly. "You don't have to fight this by yourself. I'm here. Your mate is here."
Hongjoong let out a shaky exhale, his arms instinctively wrapping around Seonghwa's waist.
It had been a few weeks since Hongjoong stopped taking the suppressants, and every morning he woke up drenched in a cold sweat, dreading when the inevitable day would come. The anxiety was a constant weight in his chest, a reminder of what loomed over him.
And then it happened.
On his birthday.
The one day he was supposed to meet his family, celebrate with a party, and enjoy Wooyoung's carefully crafted cake.
The morning light barely filtered through the curtains when Hongjoong's eyes snapped open, his entire body on fire. A low moan escaped his lips before he could stop it, his limbs twitching as the intense heat rolled through him. He felt the faint scent of lavender and strawberries in the nest that Seonghwa had carefully prepared for him, but it wasn't enough. Nothing was enough.
Panic hit him like a tidal wave. He clawed at the blankets, trying to steady his breathing, but the tightness in his chest made it impossible. It felt like someone had their hands around his throat, squeezing. Hongjoong clutched at his chest, his nails digging into his skin as he gasped for air.
"No, no, no..." he whispered hoarsely, his voice trembling.
He needed to get out. He needed to hide. Jongho always surprised him with a cake on the morning of his birthday—he couldn't let his little brother see him like this. Shame and fear twisted in his gut, amplifying the chaos already coursing through his veins.
His legs gave out as he tried to stand, and he crumpled to the floor with a pained groan. Sweat dripped down his temples, and his vision blurred as he crawled toward the door, each movement agonizingly slow. His claws extended against his will, scraping harshly against the wooden floor and leaving deep grooves in their wake.
"Seonghwa-ya..." he croaked, his voice cracking with desperation, but there was no response.
Where was he?
The pain surged again, sharp and unrelenting, as if his body was tearing itself apart from the inside out. Hongjoong's head fell against the wall as he tried to steady himself, his nails digging into the plaster, leaving jagged scratches as he clawed at it in a futile attempt to anchor himself.
Tears blurred his vision as a hoarse cry tore from his throat. His instincts screamed at him to find his mate, but his fear held him back. He couldn't let Seonghwa see him like this—weak, vulnerable, and unraveling at the seams.
Another wave of cramps slammed into him, and he collapsed onto the floor completely, his chest heaving as he curled into himself, trembling. The overwhelming ache in his body, the haze clouding his mind, and the absence of Seonghwa's comforting presence pushed him closer to the edge of despair.
"Where are you...?" he whispered, his voice barely audible over the sound of his ragged breathing.
Hongjoong's heart raced wildly, his wolf howling inside him for relief, for Seonghwa, for anything to make this unbearable torment stop.
And yet, all he could do was lie there, helpless, waiting for the pain to consume him.
The moment Seonghwa felt the sharp tug in his chest, his instincts screamed at him to move. His mate was in pain. Hongjoong's rut had finally arrived. Without a second thought, Seonghwa bolted from the kitchen where he had been preparing breakfast, his heart pounding as he sprinted toward their bedroom.
The scent of distress hit him before he even reached the door, the acrid tang of Hongjoong's panic mingling with the natural spice of his alpha's scent. His wolf bristled, clawing at his control, urging him to comfort his mate. Seonghwa didn't hesitate. He burst into the room, his sharp eyes immediately finding Hongjoong collapsed on the floor, trembling and clutching at his chest.
"Hongjoongie!" Seonghwa's voice was steady, though his heart clenched at the sight of his mate's tear-streaked face and disheveled state. He dropped to his knees beside him, carefully placing a hand on his damp forehead, his other hand brushing Hongjoong's sweat-soaked hair out of his face.
Hongjoong's eyes fluttered open briefly, glazed and unfocused. "H-Hwa..." he choked out, his voice breaking.
"I'm here," Seonghwa said softly, though his tone was firm, anchoring. "I've got you." He turned his head sharply toward the door. "Wooyoung!" he called, his voice commanding yet laced with urgency.
Seconds later, Wooyoung appeared in the doorway, his expression filled with concern. "What do you need, hyung?"
"Bring me water and a basket of food—something high in protein and carbs. Quickly." Seonghwa's voice left no room for hesitation, and Wooyoung nodded, disappearing down the hallway in a flurry of movement.
Turning his attention back to Hongjoong, Seonghwa gently pulled him into his lap, cradling him as he rocked slightly, trying to ease the alpha's trembling. His mate's skin was burning, his body drenched in sweat as his rut took hold with merciless force.
"Breathe with me, Joongie," Seonghwa coaxed, pressing his forehead to Hongjoong's and inhaling deeply, his scent enveloping them both. "In through your nose, out through your mouth. Slowly, baby. I'm right here."
Hongjoong let out a strangled sob, his claws still scratching weakly at Seonghwa's arm as though seeking a lifeline. "It hurts," he rasped, his voice hoarse and broken.
"I know," Seonghwa whispered, his heart aching at the sight of his mate's vulnerability. "But you're strong, my alpha. You can get through this. I'm not going anywhere."
"I need you... so bad," Hongjoong whimpered, his voice trembling, yet laced with a sultry desperation that sent a shiver down Seonghwa's spine.
"I know, baby," Seonghwa replied gently, his voice soothing as he ran his fingers through Hongjoong's sweat-dampened hair. "Just a little longer. Let Wooyoung bring the water first, and then I'll close the door, okay?"
Hongjoong nodded feverishly, his lips parting as he let out a shaky breath. He leaned in closer, his head resting in the crook of Seonghwa's neck. The omega's calming scent surrounded him, a balm to the raw ache in his chest. Unable to resist, Hongjoong pressed soft kisses to Seonghwa's neck, his lips brushing over the sensitive skin in featherlight touches.
Seonghwa stilled for a moment, his breath hitching as his alpha's warm lips moved along the curve of his neck. When Hongjoong's kisses deepened, turning into gentle nibbles and slow, deliberate sucks, Seonghwa let out a quiet gasp.
"You're so good," Seonghwa murmured, his voice soft yet steady, as his hand moved to stroke Hongjoong's back. His fingers traced soothing patterns over the trembling muscles beneath, grounding his mate with his touch.
Hongjoong moaned softly against Seonghwa's skin, his hands clutching at the omega's waist as if anchoring himself. "You smell so good," he mumbled, his voice muffled but heavy with need. "You always smell so good, Hwa."
"I'm here," Seonghwa whispered, pressing a soft kiss to the top of Hongjoong's head. "I'm not going anywhere. I promise."
The alpha's breathing started to steady slightly, his fevered kisses slowing as Seonghwa's calm presence eased the storm within him. The intimacy of the moment wrapped around them like a cocoon, the outside world fading as they focused solely on each other.
Just as Hongjoong's lips brushed against Seonghwa's mark, a knock came at the door, breaking the moment as Hongjoong snarled at the intruder,
"Hyung, I've got the water and the food," Wooyoung called softly from the other side.
Seonghwa let out a soft sigh, tilting Hongjoong's face gently with his hand. "Just one second, Alpha. I'll get everything and then I'm all yours."
Hongjoong whined in protest but nodded reluctantly, his eyes glossy as he nuzzled into Seonghwa's neck one last time.
"I'll be quick," Seonghwa reassured him, pressing a tender kiss to his forehead before pulling away to open the door.
Seonghwa quickly opened the door, taking the tray from Wooyoung with a grateful nod. "Thanks, Woo. I've got it from here."
Wooyoung gave him a knowing smile but kept his voice light. "Call if you need me. And don't forget to eat something yourself, hyung. You're going to need the energy."
Seonghwa's cheeks flushed slightly, but he nodded again, closing the door behind him.
Turning back to Hongjoong, he placed the tray on the bedside table, careful not to make too much noise. His alpha was watching him intently, golden eyes hazy yet fixated on his every move.
"I'm here now," Seonghwa said softly, climbing back into the nest. The blankets cradled them both as he leaned down, brushing a stray strand of hair from Hongjoong's damp forehead. "Let's start with some water, hmm?"
Hongjoong groaned softly, burying his face in Seonghwa's chest. "Don't want water. Just want you," he murmured, his voice rough with need. His hands clutched at Seonghwa's waist again, pulling him impossibly closer.
Seonghwa chuckled softly, wrapping his arms around Hongjoong in a firm yet comforting embrace. "You'll have me, Joongie. But I need you to stay strong for me, okay? Just a few sips of water first."
"I said no!" Hongjoong said and pinned Seonghwa against the wall, his fingers around Seonghwa's neck
Seonghwa maintained his composure, even as his back pressed against the cool wall, Hongjoong's grip firm but trembling against his neck. The intensity in Hongjoong's golden, rut-driven eyes wasn't threatening—it was desperate, pleading.
"Joongie..." Seonghwa whispered gently, his hands coming up to rest lightly on Hongjoong's arms. He didn't fight, didn't flinch. His gaze was steady, his voice calm. "I know it's overwhelming right now. I know your wolf is in control, but I need you to trust me. Let me help you."
Hongjoong's chest heaved as he stared at his mate, the conflicting emotions warring within him clear. His grip faltered, loosening just enough for Seonghwa to slip one hand up and brush his fingers soothingly along Hongjoong's jawline.
"Alpha," Seonghwa continued, his voice dropping to a soft, grounding tone. "I'm yours, but you're mine too. We'll do this together. Let me take care of you."
The words seemed to break through the fog clouding Hongjoong's mind. His shoulders sagged slightly, and his hand fell away from Seonghwa's neck to rest on his mate's waist. He pressed his forehead against Seonghwa's shoulder, letting out a shuddering breath.
"I'm sorry," he rasped, his voice rough with emotion. "I didn't mean—"
"I know," Seonghwa interrupted gently, wrapping his arms around Hongjoong and pulling him close. "It's okay, Joongie. I'm not afraid of you."
[M]
The next few seconds were hazy, Seonghwa's body pressed on the wall, maybe bent over their little chair as Hongjoong practically ripped his clothes apart. Hongjoong's hands were everywhere, rough and possessive as they tore at Seonghwa's clothes, the fabric giving way under his alpha's desperate need. Seonghwa gasped as Hongjoong shoved him against the wall, his back pressing into the cool surface, the contrast between it and the heat of his mate's body sending shivers down his spine.
"Joongie—" Seonghwa moaned, his voice breaking as Hongjoong's lips trailed hot, open-mouthed kisses along his neck, his teeth grazing the sensitive skin just above his collarbone. The omega's hands tangled in Hongjoong's hair, tugging lightly as his body arched into the touch.
Hongjoong growled low in his throat, the sound vibrating through Seonghwa's chest as he gripped the omega's hips and spun him around, bending him over the small chair in their room. "Mine," he rasped, his voice thick with arousal as his hands roamed over Seonghwa's bare back, fingers tracing the curve of his spine before moving lower. His thumbs pressed into the dimples at the base of Seonghwa's back, eliciting a sharp gasp from the omega.
Seonghwa trembled as Hongjoong's hands slid around to his abdomen, fingers brushing over his nipples before gripping his waist tightly. He's so rough, Seonghwa thought, his mind hazy with pleasure and need. But he didn't want gentle—not now, not when Hongjoong was finally letting go, finally showing him the depth of his desire.
"You feel so good, baby," Hongjoong murmured, his voice husky as he leaned down to press a kiss to the back of Seonghwa's neck. "So pretty, so beautiful."
Seonghwa's breath hitched as Hongjoong's hands moved lower, cupping his ass and kneading the flesh roughly. The omega bit his lip to stifle a moan, but it escaped anyway, loud and unrestrained as Hongjoong's fingers dipped between his cheeks, brushing over his entrance.
"Fuck, Joongie," Seonghwa whimpered, his hips rocking back instinctively, seeking more of that friction. "Please—"
Hongjoong didn't need to be asked twice. With a growl, he grabbed Seonghwa by the hair and yanked him upright(romantically), dragging him toward the nest they'd built together. The omega stumbled, his legs weak with anticipation, but Hongjoong caught him, lowering him onto the soft blankets with surprising gentleness.
For a moment, they just stared at each other, chests heaving, eyes locked in a heated gaze. Then Hongjoong reached for Seonghwa's cock, his calloused fingers wrapping around the length and stroking it firmly. Seonghwa gasped, his hips jerking up into the touch, his cock already hard and leaking precum.
"Want to taste you," Hongjoong muttered, his voice low and rough as he leaned down, taking Seonghwa's cock into his mouth without warning.
"Fuck—" Seonghwa cried out, his hands flying to Hongjoong's hair as the alpha swallowed him down, his tongue working magic on the sensitive tip. Hongjoong hummed, the vibrations sending shocks of pleasure through Seonghwa's body, making his toes curl and his back arch.
It didn't take long for Seonghwa to fall apart, his orgasm crashing over him like a wave as Hongjoong sucked him off relentlessly. The omega's hips bucked uncontrollably, his release spilling into Hongjoong's mouth as he let out a guttural moan.
But Hongjoong wasn't done. He pulled off with a wet pop, licking his lips as he looked up at Seonghwa with dark, lust-filled eyes. "Not enough," he growled, crawling up Seonghwa's body until they were face to face. "Need more. Need to fuck you."
Hongjoong's eyes were fixed on Seonghwa's taut, sculpted body as he worked on himself, his fingers moving with a sense of urgency that spoke volumes about the intensity of his desire. The omega's face was a mix of pain, frustration, impatience, and longing as he prepared himself for the alpha's entrance. His small, glistening cock was leaking precum, and Hongjoong's own erection throbbed in response. Seonghwa spread his legs wider, inviting Hongjoong in, his heart pounding in his chest. The alpha didn't hesitate, positioning himself between the omega's thighs and aligning his cock with Seonghwa's entrance. He pushed in slowly, savoring every inch of the tight, warm embrace. Hongjoong's jaw clenched as he fought to maintain control, his breath coming in ragged gasps. The sight of Seonghwa's body, so beautiful and vulnerable, was almost too much for him to bear.
"So tight," Hongjoong groaned, his hands gripping Seonghwa's hips as he bottomed out, burying himself completely inside his mate. "Fuck, Hwa, you feel amazing."
Seonghwa's breath came in short, shallow gasps as he adjusted to the stretch, his nails digging into Hongjoong's shoulders. "Move," he pleaded, his voice trembling with need. "Please, Joongie, move."
Hongjoong complied, pulling out almost all the way before slamming back in, setting a brutal pace that had Seonghwa crying out with every thrust. The omega's hands scrambled for purchase, his fingers tangling in the sheets as Hongjoong pounded into him, his cock hitting that sweet spot deep inside with unerring accuracy.
"Mine," Hongjoong growled, his voice rough and possessive as he leaned down to capture Seonghwa's lips in a searing kiss. "All mine."
Seonghwa moaned into the kiss, his hips rising to meet Hongjoong's thrusts, the pleasure building rapidly as his second orgasm approached. He could feel Hongjoong's knot forming, swelling at the base of his cock, and the thought of being claimed so completely sent a shiver of excitement through him.
"Gonna breed you," Hongjoong panted, his breath hot against Seonghwa's ear as he quickened his pace, his thrusts becoming even more frantic. "Fill you up, make you mine forever."
"Yes," Seonghwa whispered, his voice barely audible over the sound of their bodies slapping together. "Please, Joongie, I need it."
Hongjoong's rhythm faltered as his knot caught, locking them together as he came with a guttural groan, his cum flooding Seonghwa's insides. The omega cried out, his own release following soon after, his cock spurting between their sweaty bodies as waves of ecstasy washed over him.
Seonghwa's breath caught in his throat, his legs wrapping around Hongjoong's waist instinctively. "Fill me up, Alpha. Make me yours."
Hongjoong didn't give him time to adjust, pulling out almost completely before slamming back in again. His movements were rough, and desperate, driven by the need to claim his mate. Each thrust brought a new wave of pleasure, the wet heat of Seonghwa's tight walls driving him wild.
"You're mine," Hongjoong snarled, his teeth grazing Seonghwa's mating mark. "Mine to breed, mine to fill."
Seonghwa whimpered, his body trembling with each powerful thrust. "Yours," he agreed, his voice barely above a whisper. "All yours, Alpha."
The rhythm of Hongjoong's hips was relentless, the sound of skin slapping against skin filling the room. Sweat dripped down his forehead as he leaned down to capture Seonghwa's lips in a searing kiss. Their tongues tangled together, the taste of each other only fueling their shared desire.
Seonghwa's hands moved to grip the sheets beneath him, his knuckles turning white as the pleasure built inside him. Every thrust hit that perfect spot, sending jolts of ecstasy through his body. "Don't stop," he begged, his voice breaking. "Please, Joongie, don't stop."
Hongjoong's response was a guttural moan, his pace quickening as he felt his knot starting to form. The pressure building at the base of his cock made his vision blur, his wolf howling for completion. He reached between them, wrapping his hand around Seonghwa's leaking cock and stroking him in time with his thrusts.
"Come for me, Hwa," he growled, his voice shaky with restraint. "Let me feel you squeeze my cock."
It didn't take long for Seonghwa to obey, his orgasm crashing over him like a tidal wave. He cried out, his body convulsing as he spilled over Hongjoong's hand. The feeling of Seonghwa's walls clenching around him was enough to push Hongjoong over the edge. With a whimper, he buried his knot deep inside the omega, pumping him full of his seed.
For a moment, everything was still, the only sound their heavy breathing echoing through the room. Hongjoong collapsed on top of Seonghwa, burying his face in the omega's neck as he tried to catch his breath.
Seonghwa's arms wrapped around him, holding him close. "You did so well, Alpha," he murmured, pressing a soft kiss to Hongjoong's sweaty temple. "You took care of me."
Hongjoong lifted his head slightly, his golden eyes softening as he looked at his mate. "Always," he whispered, his voice hoarse but filled with affection. "I'll always take care of you."
But even as the words left his lips, Hongjoong could feel the heat of his rut beginning to build again. It wasn't over—not yet. His hands tightened on Seonghwa's hips, and he leaned down to capture his mate's lips in another hungry kiss.
"Again," he demanded, his voice low and needy. "Need to fill you again."
Seonghwa nodded breathlessly, his chest heaving as he arched into the alpha's touch. "Take me," he whispered, his voice laced with submission and desire. "I'm yours, Alpha. Always yours."
Hongjoong didn't waste another second. He flipped Seonghwa onto his stomach, yanking his hips up roughly. The omega let out a soft whimper, his body already slick and ready from their previous coupling. Hongjoong's cock throbbed at the sight, his knot already swelling in anticipation. He gripped Seonghwa's waist hard enough to bruise and slammed into him without warning, burying himself to the hilt in one brutal thrust.
"Fuck!" Seonghwa cried out, his voice breaking as Hongjoong bottomed out inside him. The stretch was overwhelming, but he welcomed it, pushing back against his alpha's relentless pace.
Hongjoong's rhythm was unrelenting, each snap of his hips driving Seonghwa further into the mattress. The room filled with the wet sound of skin slapping against skin, mingling with their ragged breaths and desperate moans. Hongjoong leaned down, his teeth grazing Seonghwa's neck before sinking into the tender flesh just above his mating bite.
"Mine," Hongjoong snarled against his skin, his voice guttural and possessive. "All mine."
"Yours," Seonghwa gasped, his body trembling as pleasure coiled tight in his gut. "Only yours, Alpha. Fill me—breed me—please!"
Hongjoong's grip tightened, his nails digging crescents into Seonghwa's hips as he fucked him harder, deeper. His knot began to swell, stretching Seonghwa even more, and the omega keened, his cock leaking untouched beneath him.
"So good for me," Hongjoong panted, his voice rough with praise. "Taking me so well, baby. Taking my fucking knot like they made you for it."
The words sent heat rushing through Seonghwa's veins, and he pushed back eagerly, meeting Hongjoong's thrusts with equal fervor. "Want it," he whimpered, his voice trembling with need. "Want your cum, Alpha. Want you to fill me until I can't take anymore."
Hongjoong groaned, his thrusts growing erratic as his knot caught on Seonghwa's rim, locking them together. He buried himself deep one last time, his release crashing over him like a tidal wave. Hot ropes of cum flooded Seonghwa's insides, and the omega clenched around him, his own orgasm ripping through him with a force that left him shaking.
They collapsed together, Hongjoong rolling them onto their sides to keep from crushing Seonghwa. Their breathing was ragged, their bodies slick with sweat, but neither of them moved. Hongjoong nuzzled into the back of Seonghwa's neck, his lips brushing softly against the mark he'd left earlier.
"You're perfect," he murmured, his voice still gravelly but softer now. "So fucking perfect."
Seonghwa hummed contentedly, his fingers intertwining with Hongjoong's where they rested on his stomach. "Love you," he whispered, his voice barely audible but filled with sincerity.
Before either of them could catch their breath, Hongjoong's hands were wandering again, kneading Seonghwa's thighs, tracing the curve of his spine. The omega shivered, his body still sensitive from their intense coupling.
"Alpha..." Seonghwa started, his voice tinged with both exhaustion and arousal.
"Need you again," Hongjoong interrupted, his voice low and urgent. "Can't stop. Need to fill you, breed you... make sure everyone knows you're mine."
Seonghwa turned his head to meet Hongjoong's gaze, his dark eyes filled with understanding and devotion. "Then take me," he said simply, his voice steady despite the tremble in his body. "Do whatever you need. I'll never say no to you."
Hongjoong's growl was half frustration, half adoration as he rolled Seonghwa onto his back, hovering over him. His cock was already hard again, and he lined himself up with Seonghwa's entrance, not bothering to wait for any further preparation. The omega was still slick and loose from their last round, and Hongjoong sank into him slowly this time, savoring the way Seonghwa's body stretched to accommodate him.
"God, you feel amazing," Hongjoong breathed, his forehead resting against Seonghwa's as he bottomed out. "Like you were made for me."
"I was," Seonghwa replied, his voice barely a whisper as he wrapped his legs around Hongjoong's waist. "Always for you, Alpha."
Hongjoong's hips began to move again, his pace slower but no less intense. Each thrust was deliberate, each movement designed to drive them both closer to the edge. Seonghwa clutched at Hongjoong's shoulders, his nails digging into the alpha's skin as he moaned softly with every deep stroke.
"Want you to knot me again," Seonghwa gasped, his hips lifting to meet Hongjoong's thrusts. "Want to feel you come inside me—fill me up so much I can't think about anything else."
Hongjoong groaned, his rhythm faltering for a moment as Seonghwa's words sent a jolt of heat straight to his cock. "Greedy little omega," he teased, though his voice was thick with affection. "Never thought you'd be so desperate for my cum."
"Only yours," Seonghwa replied breathlessly, his eyes fluttering shut as pleasure coursed through him. "Only ever yours."
The words were too much, and Hongjoong's control snapped. His thrusts became erratic, his knot swelling rapidly as he chased his release. "Gonna fill you up so good," he panted, his voice rough with need. "Make sure you're dripping with me by the time I'm done."
Seonghwa moaned loudly, his body tensing as his own orgasm approached. "Yes, Alpha! Please—do it. Breed me—make me yours forever."
Hongjoong's moan echoed through the room as his knot locked them together once more, his cum flooding Seonghwa's insides in hot, endless pulses. The omega cried out, his body convulsing with pleasure as he came untouched, his seed painting his stomach in streaks of white.
They lay there panting, their bodies tangled together as Hongjoong's knot kept them connected. The alpha pressed soft kisses to Seonghwa's neck, his lips brushing against the mating mark with reverence.
"Mine," he whispered, his voice hoarse but filled with possessiveness. "Forever mine."
Seonghwa smiled weakly, his fingers threading through Hongjoong's damp hair. "Yours," he agreed, his voice barely audible. "Always yours."
But even as they lay there, basking in the afterglow, Hongjoong could feel the fire of his rut rekindling. His hands began to roam again, his lips trailing down Seonghwa's chest.
"Again," he murmured, his voice dark and hungry. "One more time, baby. Just one more."
Hongjoong's rut didn't just intensify—it consumed him. Days blurred into nights, and time became irrelevant. The only thing that mattered was Seonghwa. His omega. His mate. His to claim, his to breed, his to mark. Every inch of the room smelled like them—spiced alpha musk mingling with the sweet, heady scent of an omega in heat. The nest they'd built together was a mess of tangled sheets, damp from sweat and cum, but neither of them cared. All that existed was their shared hunger, their insatiable need for each other.
Seonghwa lay beneath him now, his body trembling as Hongjoong thrust into him at a punishing pace. The alpha's hands gripped his hips hard enough to bruise, his fingers leaving crescent-shaped marks on the omega's pale skin. Seonghwa's back arched off the bed, his lips parting in a silent scream as Hongjoong's cock hit that spot deep inside him again and again.
"Joongie—" Seonghwa gasped, his voice breaking as he reached up to tangle his fingers in the alpha's hair. "Fuck, you feel so good. So deep—"
Hongjoong growled, his golden eyes dark with lust as he leaned down to capture Seonghwa's lips in a bruising kiss. Their tongues clashed, hot and desperate, and Seonghwa moaned into his mouth, his legs tightening around Hongjoong's waist to pull him even closer.
In some moments when Hongjoong did act conscious, Seonghwa would feed him and bathe him before they'd resume everything again.
[M]
When Hongjoong stirred awake, the world outside their bay window was drenched in a soft golden hue. He blinked slowly, disoriented, his body aching in ways that told him how much time had passed, his back cracked as he tried to move. His left arm was free, resting limply against the rumpled sheets, but his right was pinned beneath a familiar weight.
Seonghwa was nestled against him, his face tucked into the crook of Hongjoong's neck, his soft breaths brushing over the tender marks he had left behind. A pang of guilt twisted in Hongjoong's chest as he gazed at his sleeping mate.
He let his fingertips trace the curve of Seonghwa's back, his skin warm and soft despite the faint tremor that ran through Hongjoong's hand. Seonghwa didn't stir, his body completely relaxed, a rare sight that made Hongjoong's heart swell even as it broke. But his gaze drifted down, and the sight made his breath hitch—a scattered canvas of bruises, faint red indentations, and darker bites littered Seonghwa's shoulders, neck, and waist. His hands ghosted over the worst of it, his stomach twisting when he noticed deeper marks at Seonghwa's hips.
"Damn it," Hongjoong whispered, his voice hoarse with self-recrimination.
Carefully, Hongjoong shifted, his knot finally easing as he separated from Seonghwa with painstaking care. He grimaced at the amount of cum leaking out of his hole and leaned over, cursing, to the bedside table to retrieve a pack of wipes that he quickly opened to clean his mate delicately without disturbing him. He worked gently, his hands steady but his heart heavy as he cleaned Seonghwa, murmuring apologies under his breath.
Leaning forward, he pressed a soft kiss to Seonghwa's temple, whispering, "I love you more than anything. I'm so sorry, Hwa. You deserve better than this."
Hongjoong climbed out of bed, his body protesting the movement. He reached for a robe, pulling it over his sore muscles as his gaze fell on his phone. The date on the screen made his blood run cold—November 19th.
"Twelve days?" he muttered, stunned.
His rut had lasted twelve whole days. The realization hit him like a wave, and guilt crept into his chest. He hadn't just missed his birthday—he'd put Seonghwa through days of exhaustion, pain, and strain.
A swell of panic rose in his chest, but he quickly swallowed it down. Seonghwa had endured it all, stayed with him through his worst moments. He deserved so much more than Hongjoong's guilt. Determined, Hongjoong padded toward the kitchen, rubbing at his face. Cooking wasn't his forte, but maybe Wooyoung could help. The least he could do was ensure his mate woke up to something warm and comforting.
Hongjoong shuffled into the kitchen, his legs still weak, and leaned against the counter, staring blankly at the assortment of utensils he barely knew how to use. He glanced at his phone again, his fingers hovering over the screen.
Wooyoung.
With a deep breath, Hongjoong hit the call button and waited as the dial tone rang in his ear.
"Joongie?" Wooyoung's voice came through, bright and cheery despite the early hour. "Happy belated birthday! Wait, why are you calling me this early? Shouldn't you be—"
"Woo," Hongjoong interrupted, his voice cracking slightly. "I need help. Like, serious help."
The line went quiet for a moment. Then, Wooyoung's tone turned cautious. "Are you okay? Is Seonghwa hyung okay? What's going on?"
"We're fine," Hongjoong rushed to assure him. "It's just... I want to make something for him. Breakfast or... something. I've been an absolute mess for almost two weeks, and he's been taking care of me the whole time. I need to do something for him, Woo. But, uh... you know I can't cook to save my life."
Wooyoung's laugh was loud and sudden, easing some of the tension in Hongjoong's chest. "So, let me get this straight—you're asking me to walk you through making breakfast for your omega because you don't want to ruin it?"
"Exactly."
"Alright, hyung," Wooyoung said, still chuckling. "First rule of cooking: don't panic. I'll guide you through it. Do you have eggs, bread, and maybe some fruit? Something simple?"
Hongjoong glanced around the kitchen, fumbling through cabinets and the fridge. "Uh, yeah. Eggs, bread, strawberries, and... butter, I think?"
"Perfect. We're going with French toast and a little fruit salad. Easy, romantic, and no fire hazards if you listen to me."
Hongjoong nodded, though Wooyoung couldn't see him, and grabbed what he needed. He put his phone on speaker and set it on the counter, following Wooyoung's instructions step by step.
"Crack the eggs into a bowl—carefully, Joong, carefully—and whisk them with a little milk."
"Milk? Wait, I don't—"
"You do. Bottom shelf of the fridge, in the back. Seonghwa hyung probably bought it."
Hongjoong grabbed the milk and added it to the eggs, whisking furiously. Wooyoung's encouraging commentary kept him focused, and soon the kitchen was filled with the faint smell of sizzling butter as Hongjoong cooked the French toast.
By the time the toast was golden and the fruit was arranged neatly on a plate, Hongjoong felt an uncharacteristic surge of pride. He might not have been a chef, but this... this was something.
"Woo, I owe you big time," Hongjoong said, wiping his hands on the robe.
"You sure do," Wooyoung teased. "But don't worry about it. Just take care of my hyungie, okay? He deserves it. You both do."
Hongjoong smiled, feeling a rare sense of calm. "I will. Thanks, Woo. Really."
"Anytime, Joongie. Now go wake your mate and tell him how much you love him."
Ending the call, Hongjoong took one last look at the plate of food before carrying it carefully to the bedroom. Seonghwa was still fast asleep, his body curled under the blankets, and Hongjoong's heart swelled as he set the tray on the nightstand.
Hongjoong leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to Seonghwa’s temple, his voice soft and affectionate. “Wake up, love. I made you breakfast.”
Seonghwa stirred, his lashes fluttering as he peeked up at Hongjoong through half-lidded eyes. A small, mischievous smile curled on his lips as he murmured sleepily,
"You knotted me so good and for so long, Alpha... I'm satisfied."
Hongjoong's face flushed a deep crimson, and he immediately straightened up, nearly stumbling back in his flustered state.
"Hwa! I—it's over! Stop it!" he stammered, his hands flailing as he tried to regain composure.
Seonghwa's soft laughter filled the room, his voice teasing yet warm. "You're too easy, Joongie," he said, reaching out to tug lightly at Hongjoong's sleeve. "Come back here. I want to see what you've made."
Still red-faced, Hongjoong grumbled under his breath but allowed himself to be pulled back to the edge of the bed.
Seonghwa sat up, his eyes lighting up as he noticed the tray of French toast and fruit. "Did you... make this yourself?" he asked, his voice softening with surprise.
"Well, Wooyoung helped over the phone," Hongjoong admitted, scratching the back of his neck. "But yeah, I wanted to do something nice for you. After everything..."
Seonghwa smiled and gave him a kiss on his forehead "You're adorable"
"Y-you're not scared of me right?" Hongjoong asked Timidly
A soft laugh rippled through Seonghwa, his shoulders shaking lightly as he reached out to brush back the strands of hair clinging to Hongjoong's contrite face. His fingers lingered, warm and gentle. "Scared of what, Joongie, your cock, I fear it has literally dented my insides at this point, didn't know someone small like you had that"
Hongjoong's gaze dropped to the floor, guilt clouding his features. "I'm... sorry," he muttered.
Seonghwa's expression softened, a blend of exasperation and affection as he tilted Hongjoong's chin up with two fingers, forcing him to meet his eyes. "Baby, don't be sorry," he said firmly, though his tone was tender. "Look at me. Do I look like I'm suffering or dying?"
Hongjoong hesitated before letting his gaze travel over Seonghwa's face. He took in the dark circles beneath his mate's tired yet sparkling eyes, the disheveled mess of his usually silky hair, and the trail of bruises and bite marks that adorned his neck like an uneven, painful necklace. His lips twitched into a grimace that could almost pass for a smile as he traced his thumb lightly along one of the deeper imprints on Seonghwa's neck. "You look like a mess," he muttered, though his voice held a note of teasing.
Seonghwa's lips curved into a mischievous smile, one that radiated warmth despite his exhaustion. "And you look like a cow's shit. Guess that makes us even."
That smile. It was the same dazzling, radiant smile that had been Hongjoong's anchor throughout the haze of his rut, the one thing that kept him grounded. Gratitude swelled in his chest as he nodded softly, reaching out to pull Seonghwa into his arms. He nestled his face into the crook of Seonghwa's neck, his voice barely a whisper as he confessed,
"I hate it. I hate... using you like that."
Seonghwa's arms wrapped around him without hesitation, his touch steady and reassuring. "Don't," he murmured against Hongjoong's temple, his voice steady. "Don't hate it, Joongie. Don't hate yourself. Because I don't. I love you, and I'm more than willing to let you use me, I liked it. A lot."
Hongjoong's ears burned, the tips of them turning bright red as a flustered grumble escaped his lips. He hated how easily Seonghwa could peel back his defenses.
"You weren't terrible, you know," Seonghwa continued, his fingers tracing soothing patterns on Hongjoong's back. "Horny and possessive? Sure. But not violent. You didn't hurt me, Joongie. Never."
Hongjoong scoffed softly, lifting his head to press his forehead against Seonghwa's. "Tell that to your neck, your shoulders, your hips..." His voice trailed off, his thumb brushing over another dark bruise on Seonghwa's collarbone.
Seonghwa rolled his eyes, his tone light yet filled with affection. "They're just bites, Alpha. You're acting like you've mauled me."
Hongjoong sighed, the tension slowly draining from his shoulders as he pressed his face back into Seonghwa's neck. He hated how right Seonghwa always was, but there was no point in arguing. The rut had passed without any real harm done, and Seonghwa's words were always honest, even when they were blunt. If Seonghwa said he was fine, he was fine.
Hongjoong leaned over the table in their room, setting the breakfast dishes in front of Seonghwa with a warm smile. "Eat up, baby. You must be hungry."
Seonghwa's gaze lingered on him for a moment, his eyes glinting with a playful, almost teasing shine. He leaned in closer, his lips curling into a soft, sultry smile. "Oh, I am hungry," he purred, his voice low and laced with meaning that had nothing to do with the food in front of him.
The air between them thickened as Hongjoong froze, his hand still on the edge of the plate. A cold realization hit him like a wave, and his eyes widened. Seonghwa's heat was two weeks ago, their heat synced up. Hongjoong's mind raced as panic spread through him.
"Fuck, fuck, fuck!" He cursed under his breath, jumping to his feet, the chair scraping loudly against the floor. Seonghwa, blinking with confusion, glanced up at him, not understanding why Hongjoong suddenly looked so frantic.
"What's wrong?" Seonghwa asked, his voice laced with a hint of concern, though the heat in his eyes didn't fade.
Hongjoong ran a hand through his hair, frustration and worry clouding his features as he paced in a tight circle. "What if you get pregnant?" he blurted out, his heart thudding painfully in his chest.
Seonghwa shrugged casually, clearly unfazed by the question. "I really don't care," he muttered, his fingers drumming lightly on the table as he leaned back.
Hongjoong froze, staring at Seonghwa in disbelief. His brain struggled to catch up with the rapid heartbeat pulsing in his chest. "No, baby, wake up," Hongjoong said urgently, his voice shaking slightly as he knelt down to meet Seonghwa's gaze. "These are your hormones talking. You've always said you didn't want kids. We can't—this is—"
But Seonghwa simply met his eyes with a calm, almost detached expression, his lips twitching into a knowing smile. "You think I don't know that, Joongie?" His tone was low and reassuring, though there was a deep and quiet certainty in it. "I know what I said, but I'm not worried about it. It's... just a moment. I'm fine."
Hongjoong felt a tightness in his chest as he stared at Seonghwa, trying to reconcile the man he knew with the calm acceptance before him. It was hard for him to understand—Seonghwa, who had always been so adamant about not wanting kids, now seemed so peaceful about the idea. The anxiety that had been building in Hongjoong's chest swelled even more, his mind racing in a thousand directions.
Seonghwa's voice broke through his worries, soft and steady. "I'm fine with it, really," he said, his fingers brushing gently against Hongjoong's hand. "I used to be afraid... because I didn't want my kids to grow up with a father like mine. You know, like all the Alphas I've seen—hard, distant, not present. But you, Joongie, you're different. You make me feel like I can handle it. And honestly..." He paused, a soft smile tugging at his lips as he met Hongjoong's gaze. "I wouldn't mind having a baby with you."
Hongjoong felt his breath hitch, the weight of Seonghwa’s words settling heavily in his chest. He searched Seonghwa’s eyes, looking for any hint of hesitation or doubt, but all he saw was warmth and sincerity.
“But what if—what if I mess it up?” Hongjoong whispered, his voice trembling as he tightened his hold on Seonghwa’s hand. “What if I’m not good enough? What if I’m not the Alpha you think I am?”
Seonghwa’s smile widened, his other hand reaching up to cup Hongjoong’s cheek. His touch was soft, grounding. “You’re already enough, Joongie. More than enough. You’ve always been. You care, you try, and you love. That’s all that matters. And besides…” Seonghwa leaned in, his lips brushing against Hongjoong’s in the faintest of kisses. “You won’t be doing it alone. We’re in this together.”
Hongjoong swallowed hard, his heart pounding as he leaned into Seonghwa’s touch. “Together,” he repeated, the word a quiet promise. He let out a shaky laugh, his thumb brushing over Seonghwa’s knuckles. “You make it sound so easy.”
“It won’t be,” Seonghwa admitted, his voice gentle but firm. “But nothing worth it ever is. We’ll figure it out. One step at a time.”
Hongjoong nodded slowly, his fear and uncertainty beginning to ebb away under the weight of Seonghwa’s confidence. He rested his forehead against Seonghwa’s, drawing strength from the closeness.
“You’re too good for me, you know that?” Hongjoong murmured, a small smile tugging at his lips.
“And you’re too hard on yourself,” Seonghwa countered, his tone teasing but full of affection. “So let’s call it even.”
“Besides,” Seonghwa teased, a playful lilt in his voice as he placed a hand on his stomach, “it’s been a while since my heat. Who knows? The little demon might already be growing in my belly.” His eyes sparkled with mischief as he cooed softly, patting his flat abdomen for effect.
Hongjoong’s jaw dropped, his eyes widening in panic. “Seonghwa! You can’t just say things like that!” he stammered, running a hand through his hair as if the mere thought had set it on fire.
Seonghwa chuckled, clearly enjoying his mate’s reaction. “What? It’s possible, isn’t it?” he said, raising an eyebrow. “You’ve always been an overachiever, Alpha. Who’s to say you didn’t succeed on the first try?”
“Stop—don’t say it like that!” Hongjoong groaned, covering his face with both hands. “You’re going to give me a heart attack!”
Seonghwa giggled softly, the sound light and airy, but as he looked up at Hongjoong, his expression softened into something more serious. His lips curled into a gentle smile, and he reached out to trace his fingers along Hongjoong’s forearm, grounding both of them in the moment.
“I really think I’m pregnant, Joongie,” he said, his voice quieter now, carrying a hint of sincerity that made Hongjoong’s heart skip a beat.
Hongjoong froze, his wide eyes locking onto Seonghwa’s. “You’re serious?” he whispered, his throat suddenly dry.
Seonghwa nodded, his smile unwavering, but his gaze held a quiet certainty as he rested a hand gently on his stomach. “I can feel it,” he admitted, his voice soft but confident. “It’s different this time. I just… know.”
Hongjoong blinked, his mouth opening slightly as he struggled to form a response. “H-how do you…?”
Seonghwa chuckled softly, leaning closer to Hongjoong as he explained.
“Last night, when you were asleep, I went to the kitchen to grab some food. Wooyoung was there,” he began, his tone light but with an undercurrent of amusement. “He sniffed me—like he always does—and then he smirked and said I smelled like strawberry milk.”
Hongjoong furrowed his brow, his confusion evident. “Strawberry milk?”
Seonghwa nodded, his smile growing. “You know what it means, Joongie. Milk,” he emphasized, tilting his head knowingly. “It’s a sign. And the way Wooyoung said it, with that teasing little smile of his? He knows too.”
Hongjoong stared at him, the words slowly sinking in. His heart thudded heavily in his chest as his eyes darted to Seonghwa’s hand resting protectively over his stomach. “You’re saying… you think it’s real?” he asked, his voice trembling slightly.
Seonghwa’s smile softened, and he placed his other hand over Hongjoong’s, squeezing gently. “I do. And if it is, then we’re about to have a little piece of us in this world, Joongie. Isn’t that something to be excited about?”
Hongjoong’s eyes widened in panic, his grip tightening around Seonghwa’s hand. “Fuck,” he muttered, his voice trembling with guilt. “That means… that means I was rough with you all this time while you were pregnant—Seonghwa, are you hurt? Did I hurt you?”
His words spilled out in a rush, the raw worry etched on his face making Seonghwa sigh softly.
Seonghwa rolled his eyes, a small smile tugging at his lips despite the situation. “You really do have an incredible talent for finding ways to blame yourself, don’t you?” he teased, his voice gentle but laced with affection.
Hongjoong frowned, his gaze scanning Seonghwa’s face and body as though he might find evidence of harm he had caused. “I mean it, Hwa,” he pressed, his tone almost desperate. “What if I—what if something I did—”
“Joongie,” Seonghwa interrupted, cupping his mate’s cheek with one hand and forcing him to look directly into his eyes. “Listen to me.” His voice was calm but firm, grounding Hongjoong as he continued. “You didn’t hurt me. Not once. You’ve never hurt me. If anything, you’ve been careful even when you didn’t have to be.”
“But—”
“No buts,” Seonghwa said firmly, cutting him off before he could spiral further. His tone was calm but decisive, grounding Hongjoong in the moment. “I’m fine, the baby—if there is one—is fine, and you need to stop overthinking every little thing. You’re doing it again, Joongie.”
Hongjoong opened his mouth to argue, but Seonghwa raised an eyebrow, effectively silencing him.
“Come on,” Seonghwa continued, his voice softening as he laced their fingers together. “Wooyoung must be home by now. Let’s get a confirmation, yeah? It’ll put your mind at ease, and we’ll know for sure.”
Hongjoong hesitated, his lips pressing into a thin line as he considered. “You’re really okay with this? Like, really okay?”
Seonghwa squeezed his hand, his smile warm and full of reassurance. “Joongie, I’m more than okay. I promise.” He tilted his head toward the door, tugging him gently. “Now let’s go before you overthink this into oblivion.”
With a reluctant chuckle, Hongjoong let himself be led out of the room, still clutching Seonghwa’s hand as if letting go would cause the world to fall apart.
When they reached Wooyoung’s room, Seonghwa knocked lightly before pushing the door open. Wooyoung was sprawled on his bed, a magazine in hand, but his eyes lit up when he saw them.
“Well, well,” Wooyoung said with a teasing grin, sitting up. “Look who decided to grace me with their presence. Here for a friendly chat or…?”
Seonghwa rolled his eyes, but there was a fondness in his expression. “We need your help, Woo.”
Hongjoong shuffled awkwardly, clearing his throat. “It’s about what you said earlier. The, uh, strawberry milk thing.”
Wooyoung’s grin widened, and he leaned forward, clearly delighted. “Oh? Finally decided to take me seriously, huh? What’s the verdict? Thinking baby names already?”
“Wooyoung,” Seonghwa said with sternness, though the corners of his lips twitched.
“Alright, alright.” Wooyoung held up his hands in surrender. “I’ll behave. Let’s see what we’re working with.”
“Yep, you’re pregnant,” Wooyoung said, a sly smirk spreading across his face as he released Seonghwa’s hand. His teasing tone barely masked the hint of genuine excitement in his voice.
Seonghwa blinked, his lips parting in quiet surprise. Despite his earlier confidence, hearing it confirmed felt different—real, tangible. His hand instinctively moved to rest over his stomach as if protecting the tiny life forming within.
Hongjoong, on the other hand, froze, his wide eyes darting between Wooyoung and Seonghwa. “Wait, just like that? You’re sure?”
Wooyoung snorted, crossing his arms over his chest. “Yeah, I’m sure. I don’t just sniff for fun, you know. And the pulse I felt through hyung's hand confirmed it. So congratulations, Alpha—you’re going to be a dad.”
Hongjoong stumbled back a step, his mind racing. “I—what—how—”
“You’re adorable when you’re malfunctioning,” Wooyoung teased, leaning against the edge of the table.
Seonghwa’s lips curved into a teasing smile as he leaned back against the counter, his hand still resting lightly on his stomach.
“As I said, Alpha, you’re an overachiever,” he quipped, his tone playful and warm. “Hit the goal on your first try. Impressive.”
Hongjoong blinked at him, his mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water. “That’s not—you—” He stumbled over his words, his cheeks flushing a deep red.
Seonghwa chuckled, reaching out to poke Hongjoong lightly on the chest. “Relax, Joongie baby. I’m just saying you’ve got a knack for succeeding, even when you’re not trying.”
“Knack?” Hongjoong managed to sputter, his voice rising slightly. “I wasn’t exactly aiming for this!”
“Sure you weren’t,” Seonghwa said, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “But hey, you’ve got to admit, it’s kind of nice knowing you’ve got a 100% success rate in this department, we can make your little pack into a big one.”
Wooyoung snorted from across the room, where he was rummaging through the fridge. “He’s not wrong, hyung. You’ve clearly got skills.”
Hongjoong groaned, burying his face in his hands as Seonghwa and Wooyoung shared a laugh. “This is so not how I pictured finding out,” he muttered, his voice muffled.
Seonghwa stepped closer, gently prying Hongjoong’s hands away from his face. “Hey,” he said softly, his teasing demeanor fading into something more tender. “I’m just joking. I know this is a lot, but we’re in this together, okay?”
Hongjoong sighed, his shoulders relaxing as he met Seonghwa’s gaze. “Okay,” he murmured, his voice steadier now.
“And for the record,” Seonghwa added, a small smirk returning to his lips, “you being an overachiever is one of the reasons I love you. Even if it does mean we’re a little ahead of schedule.”
Hongjoong couldn’t help but smile, shaking his head as he pulled Seonghwa into a gentle hug. "I'm just so proud of you, it wasn't just me, baby, it was you too"
Wooyoung rolled his eyes dramatically, throwing his hands up in the air in exaggerated exasperation. “Alright, lovebirds, save some of that sweetness for the baby. You’re making me sick over here,” he huffed, clearly teasing, but unable to hide the amused twinkle in his eyes.
Hongjoong, not missing a beat, shot back with a smirk. “Just say you’re jealous because you can’t be impregnated,” he quipped, his voice light but with a hint of mischief.
Wooyoung gasped, his hand flying to his chest as if struck. “I am very happy with my omega, thank you very much. Sannie will be hearing about this slander,” he said, feigning offense, though his smirk betrayed his playful tone.
Hongjoong raised an eyebrow, the corner of his lips curling upward as he shot Wooyoung a knowing look. “Okay, but this reminds me. Remember the time you went to the hospital because you genuinely thought you were pregnant by San?”
The air in the room shifted for a moment, as both Seonghwa and Wooyoung froze, but then Wooyoung’s cheeks flushed a deep red as he scoffed, clearly embarrassed by the memory. “Ugh, come on. It felt so real! My body was sending all the signals—nausea, cravings, mood swings… San makes love better than any Alpha. I can guarantee, even my womb was confused.”
Seonghwa snorted, unable to hold back his laughter at Wooyoung’s dramatic recounting. Hongjoong burst out laughing as well, unable to resist the sheer ridiculousness of it all. “You really thought you were pregnant? Wooyoung, how could you not realize it wasn’t possible?”
“I was in love!” Wooyoung said, pouting dramatically, though the twinkle in his eyes showed he was just as entertained by the story now as everyone else. “The connection we had, the passion—my body was all out of whack. It was practically screaming at me! I swear, it felt like San put a spell on me. I genuinely thought I was carrying his child for a second.”
Hongjoong laughed even harder, shaking his head. “Yeah, but how long did you really think you were pregnant for?”
Wooyoung rolled his eyes, putting on his best serious face.
“At least three days. I’d convinced myself. My symptoms were so convincing, even I had doubts. But then…” His voice trailed off with a grin. “We went to the doctor and turns out, I just had too many spicy ramen noodles. They didn’t take kindly to my stomach, okay? But hey, at least I got a lesson on how to tell the difference between actual pregnancy symptoms and a bad food choice!”
Seonghwa and Hongjoong both laughed, sharing an amused glance at Wooyoung’s ridiculous but endearing misadventure. “You’re lucky you didn’t actually end up pregnant,” Seonghwa said, still chuckling. “I don’t think San could handle that kind of surprise.”
Wooyoung threw his hands up. “Hey, I was the one who’d be surprised! San was the one who’d need a lot of explaining. Besides, I’m just glad I didn’t have to go through with the ‘how do I explain that I'm knocked up by an omega to my family' part"
Seonghwa smirked leaning back "Leave the baby-making to us for now, yeah?" he teased, his voice low and deliberately seductive.
Hongjoong's breath hitched at the insinuation, and he glanced up at Seonghwa, his face flushed. "Seonghwa, baby," he muttered, his voice strained with frustration. "I know your heat lasts long, but please-stop tormenting me. I genuinely can't handle or control myself when you're like this."
Seonghwa's smirk softened into something more intimate as he leaned in just a little closer, his voice quiet but full of temptation. "I'm not doing anything, Joongie.
I'm just... being me." He let the words hang in the air, a teasing promise lingering between them.
As Seonghwa’s words hung in the air, Hongjoong couldn’t help but let out a shaky breath, his heart racing. He reached out to tug Seonghwa closer, unable to resist him anymore.
But just as things were getting heated, Wooyoung made an exaggerated grimace from the doorway, his hands over his eyes. “I’m so happy for you both, truly. But can we please keep the public displays of affection to a minimum? My eyes, seriously.”
Seonghwa chuckled softly, his eyes soft and content as he turned toward Wooyoung. “Alright, alright. But we’re going to be parents soon, Wooyoung. Let us have our moment.”
Hongjoong, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips, nodded at Seonghwa, a mix of fondness and amusement in his eyes. “Yeah, for once, let us enjoy this.”
Before Seonghwa could respond, Wooyoung made a dramatic noise from the doorway.
“This is my room, you horny fucks!” he huffed, his face scrunched in playful annoyance. With a swift motion, he shoved the two of them toward the door, his hands not giving them much of a chance to argue.
Hongjoong shot Wooyoung a glare, his arms instinctively wrapping around Seonghwa to protect him. “Don’t touch him,” Hongjoong growled, his voice low with a hint of possessiveness. The protective instinct in him flared as he took a step forward, standing between Seonghwa and Wooyoung. “Let go.”
Wooyoung raised his hands in surrender, raising an eyebrow at Hongjoong's sudden change. “Fine, fine, protective Alpha new daddy in making. But you two need to take that energy elsewhere.” He shoved them out of the room without hesitation, his lips curling into a teasing smirk.
Hongjoong turned to Seonghwa, still feeling the slight pulse of anger. As Wooyoung muttered something about needing privacy, Hongjoong leaned down to Seonghwa, his face softening as their gazes locked.
“I love you,” Hongjoong whispered, his hands gently resting on Seonghwa’s waist, pulling him closer.
“I love you too,” Seonghwa whispered back, a soft smile on his lips as he melted into the embrace.
THE END