Archive of Our Own

John is being stupid.

Probably.

It's fine.

John knows he's overreacting to some events that have happened in his life but… he's… doing good….he swears. He just chooses to ignore his stupid actions and the stupid voice in his head that screams at how wrong all of this is anyway.

He's still so fucking new to living his life like this now. He's gone like, 30 years of his life not having to deal with any of this shit, and suddenly his life got flipped upside down. It wasn't fair. He shouldn't be dealing with any of this heat cycle or green eyed jealousy bullshit.

Okay. He’s not doing all that good. He's rather pissed off and hurt, and the worst part is the fact, no one else in his pack seems to understand what he's going through. He wants to snap or scream or cry, but the more stoic repressed part of himself doesn't want to admit he needs help or comfort.

That's a weakness. Being an Omega is weak. That's what his father had always said, every night whilst drinking heavily.

His father had been… less than impressed when he presented as a beta, so sure his first-born son would be a strong alpha to continue the bloodline. All he got was a sniff and dismissal, and told he better marry a lovely beta lady or so help him. He's not exactly an Omega now, but he's more Omega then alpha now. If father was still alive, he probably would beat him black and blue for later actually presenting as a fucking Delta, the halfbreed equivalent of an Omega.

John also thinks his father is probably rolling in his grave now looking at him being in a pack with six other men, and loosely associated with another half dozen or so.

He could almost picture the evil old man now in his mind; “God. Can you not even become an Omega correctly? You're such a fucking failure as always Johnathon!!”

For context;

It was about six months ago John had awoken to what he thought was a fever and weird stomach cramps. He had sluggishly peeled himself out of his bed, dragging himself to the kitchen. He blearily greeted the others in his pack who were hanging out there as he tried to grab some ibuprofen for the weird pain he had.

“John, are you doing alright?” Smii7y had asked, ever the observant one when it came to John. Matt, Droid and Pezzy had all stopped talking, observing the oldest beta as he wobbled back and forth. He didn't look well.

“Feeling kinda… off.. Mmm like…. dizzy.” John mumbled, swaying, before stumbling a little. “Woah….”

Smitty ran over, putting his arm around the taller man. “Here buddy, let's get you back to bed okay? Sleep off the fever alright?”

“I'll grab some pills and water and bring it to your room.” Droid offered kindly, Matt nodding in support.

John made a noise of affirmation, before nuzzling into Smitty's neck. “Mmm have you always smelt this nice? Like hot chocolate and like um…. smokey?.. mmmm…. it's nice….”

Pezzy had frowned at that statement, hand pausing mid-air; “I thought betas couldn't really scent alphas as good. That's more what he smells like to someone like me.”

“We can't,” said Puffer, sliding into the room, squeezing past everyone to grab an apple. “If I try to scent like…. Matt too much I get a headache. Although it’s probably because he stinks to all hell.”

“Alright bro.” Matt said, rolling his eyes. pouting. “You're not winning any awards smelling like the fucking ocean…asshole.”

“Yeah I am.” Puffer winked at the other, biting the apple. “Suck shit bozo.”

“Yeah, I personally can only smell the milky chocolatey smell right now on Smitty and nothing with the other parts.” Droid chimed in helpfully, going back to the original subject.

“Same here.” Puffer agreed, munching on the fruit.

As Smitty managed to finally guide John out of the room, around all the people, the last pack member had come to see what was up with all the chatter.

Actually that was wrong. Grizzy had actually stormed in, slightly pissed off, ready to throw hands. “Ayy yo. Who the fuck brought an in-heat Omega over? Why did no one warn the rest of us? That's literally an accident waiting to happen!” he snapped.

Everyone in the room had froze, eyes slowly going to the door that the two had just exited.

“Erm.” Puffer said, raising his eyebrows while chewing. “Awkward…..”

“Well that's… interesting..” Droid mumbled quietly.

Smii7y froze in the hallway, scenting John closely, frowning as the scent began to almost like…. change. What was once a rather muted earthy scent, now had strong, sweet floral undertones leaking through. It hit Smitty hard, making him dizzy and reel back.

Smitty shook his head, snapping his thoughts back to normal. He was struck with how his inner alpha was so much more possessive now; ‘John, mine mine mine.’ He knew it was because John was one of his best friends but it was still very overwhelming for him, striking him suddenly.

Shaking his head to clear his thoughts, he took a tiny step back, ignoring the hurt look on John's face, and feeling his heart crack at the quiet whine John let out.

“Uhh Pezzy or Droid, can one of y'all take John to his room. I don't think I should be doing that right now.” Smitty said, backing away from the confused man. “I really don't think it's a good idea.”

Then John had been taken to his room by Droid and Pezzy, given a very rushed crash course on how to survive a heat by a very confused Pezzy. The nest had been thrown together by the other two, John's brain screaming at how wrong it was that he didn't have any input, but not understanding why he felt that way. He was a beta!

Wasn’t he?

It was a brutal time, none of the alphas willing to go anywhere near John until he'd seen a doctor, and John's brain chemistry going haywire. He was spiraling at the fact his body needed an alpha nearby, when he should be independent and self reliant. He didn't want to be weak and need anyone else. He was a beta.

Luckily for him, Pezzy and Droid had kindly snuggled and comforted him with their scents during his first heat. Puffer however, had awkwardly stood in the doorway, worried it was some sort of contagious illness, but still tried helping out by sharing a hoodie and bringing in clothes to throw some more pack scents in the mix.

After a few hellish days filled with cramping and warmth, he was finally able to be seen by a doctor. Pezzy was elected to go with him, awkwardly choosing to take him alone, pretending they were a traditional couple to avoid weird judgemental strangers glaring at the seven of them.

The doctor had run a few quick tests before raising her eyebrows and saying it was; ‘the latest bloomer she'd ever seen. Had he had a rough childhood? It was more common with patients of that… sort.’

John had suddenly found the floor very interesting, saying he didn't really wanna go into it at this point in time, and could she just explain what had happened to him?

The doctor nodded kindly, before explaining some jargon that had to be simplified before John and Pezzy had finally understood.

“Firstly. I want to correct something. You're not an Omega.” She stated, looking at the two men, who glanced at each other, shocked.

“Thank fucking God.” John sighed out, ignoring Pezzy’s jokingly raised eyebrow. “It was just a once off?”

She wrinkled her nose, pausing before filling him on the rest. “Um no. You're a um…very rare fourth gender designation. A Delta.”

Pezzy blinked. “Deltas are real?” He asked, shocked. “I thought they all died out like… a hundred years ago.

She nodded. “Yeah, there was a brief respite, not truely dying out, however with all the stresses of life now, they've become more common again.”

“Hang on. Go back. What? What the hell is a Delta? How am I even one?” John asked worriedly, not wanting to admit that he was now slightly scared.

The doctor kindly smiled and set out explaining it all, using more simple terms.

Delta is the gendered term they used to describe “overcooked” Omegas. The term is for extremely late blooming Omegas, so late that by the time they finally present, they're not fully able to be Omegas anymore, having spent so long as betas.

In John's case, it all boiled down to the fact about how his body had only bothered to finally finish developing when he felt he was in a safe and accepting space or whatever. Ever since he moved in with the rest of the pack, his mental health had steadily been improving, and this was obviously a sign of that. He (on a subconscious level) had finally felt safe enough to be himself.

She had then frowned and informed him of the less fun things about being a Delta.

The negative side effects included; the fact his heat cycle would probably never be as regular, likely skipping a heat occasionally (this came much to John's relief), and he would likely have great difficulty getting pregnant (again to his relief). The final thing was his heats he did have were likely to be more intense (to John's absolute misery). By intense, she meant, more painful and hormonal.

She also informed him of a few other small pieces of information. Deltas were able to resist the Alpha voice if they focused hard enough, and were also still lucky enough to be able to mate and bond, however the mark would need to be reapplied yearly. His scent (unless he was in heat), would smell more similar to a betas, negating the need for scent blockers mostly.

The doctor had then smiled at his and Pezzy’s absolutely shocked faces and then sent them both on their way….Leaving John to attempt to learn how to be a failed Omega a… Delta. It was… difficult.

First off he didn't even want to be… like that... He found himself wanting to curse his biology out, but also not wanting to upset or hurt Pezzy with his self-deprecating comments, so he mostly settled for bottling them up.

In his opinion, nesting (the whole thing) could also get fucked.

He was not about to go ask Pezzy for help with heat shit however, his ego was wayyyy too fragile for that. He could recall though… very faintly …. how nice his mother's nests had been in his childhood, before his siblings had been born. How safe and inviting they had been.

Before his father decided that John was too old to be seeking comfort from such a ‘weak minded woman’. The idea of nesting in general just made John feel uncomfortable.

He didn't need to nest or cuddle or scent like Pezzy did. He was stronger than that. He was a Delta not an Omega. He could resist the urge.

He could pretend at least.

John really didn't like the fact he was different now. He'd lived 30 years of his life as a beta. He didn't need to do any of the… heat stuff… he was above it.. (he could sometimes still see his father's hard eyes when he closed his own… Judging him.)

For every heat John finally got, poor Pezzy would suffer through having two. Sometimes it was so long in between his heats, that his scent would smell very similar to how it used to smell. Very beta-esque. People who knew him, would unintentionally slip back into old habits, forgetting he wasn't a Beta now. He was a…

He couldn't even say it.

However, that honestly suited John better. Being treated like a Beta suited him just fine! He could go out in public and people would just barely glance at him. He wasn't a threat or some prey. He was just John.

At home it was like nothing had changed. He honestly believed in part of his heart the others had all forgotten he was a Delta now. He told himself that he loved the fact they didn't worry or stress out over him.

He told himself that he loved that they treated him like he was still a Beta, he could almost believe it himself. Until he was in pre-heat and then reality came crashing back down around him again. His reality crumbled.

This time, John already knew his heat was coming soon. The more submissive Delta part of his brain wanted him to nest soon, he could already feel the urges hitting him… There were just a few problems.

The first issue, being the part of his brain that was still rejecting his new gender. Whatever. That wasn't too big of an issue.

The second problem that actually would affect him, would be his scent. It still smells more earthy and beta-esque, meaning no one else would be aware of his preheat at this time. He could tell it was changing back to the more sweet almost Omega style but…

John's pride refused to tell anyone else he was going into heat unless he absolutely had to. He was determined he was going to keep this to himself, until the others finally realised. (It would probably be later that day honestly.) Smitty was very good at picking up when his heat was coming in, having been friends for so long.

The final problem (the biggest one) was the deadline looming however, which tied in with the second problem.

The yearly Canada trip.

Everyone was busy racing around packing, getting excited and frantically checking last minute itinerary lists.

John frowned, watching in slight distaste as Smitty had walked in the room, looking for something before he had just turned and glared at him. John had been taking a break, lazing on the couch, trying to relax from preheat pains he was getting. Fuck. He could already tell this one would be a bitch.

“John,” Smitty says, trying to hide the anger in his tone. He fails. “You know we're leaving soon right? Like you're not exactly helping us pack laying around here. Get off your ass and go finish packing your multiple suitcases full of clothes. You always wanna bring a pair of shoes for each day, they're not gonna pack themselves.”

And yeah. John knows that he isn't helping Smitty's stress levels right now. And yeah. He should really be packing. But his stomach aches and he feels dizzy.

Will he say anything? Fuck no!

He doesn't want to admit weakness though. Weakness here (in his mind) is just being like an Omega. And he's not an Omega…

But honestly….. how has Smitty not realised the reason that he's now acting lazy for a trip he was excited for, is because his heat is starting soon?

His inner Delta is slightly hurt at Smitty rolling his eyes. Maybe it's an issue with him? He should just be grateful they're not like…. babying him or anything. He thinks back a little…

John remembers his last heat, a few months back. He'd been finishing up grabbing supplies, nest (reluctantly) still set up, and he had just wanted some more clothes from the pack to finish it off. He'd gone to Droid's room, thinking it over before borrowing a hoodie from him. He thought he needed a little more of the betas scent in the mix.

Droid however had walked in and questioned what he was doing. John had dropped the hoodie, saying he was just looking at the clothes to get sewing ideas before bolting back to his room, not willing to admit he wanted the clothing for his nest, not willing to admit weakness.

The other thing was Grizzy had also happened to eat all his snacks he bought specifically for his heat. John had wanted to strangle the other at that time, but he just shrugged and pretended to not care. Not like he needed them. He wasn't an Omega so he didn't deserve all the special snacks or whatever…

John right now, really wants to whine about the pain he's in to Smitty, plead his case, get Smitty’s help, but the fact he even needs to ask for help in the first place is so fucking embarrassing to him. He should be better than that. His father would spank him silly for behaving like this. Being this weak.

As John thinks, he notices how Smitty doesn't look like he'd be down to helping right now either. He looks pissed the fuck off, tapping his foot impatiently.

Pezzy dashes into the room, breaking the tension almost instantly with his excitement. “Hey Smitty, Blarg just wants your opinion on the route we're driving? Could you go see him?”

John watches as Smitty's anger seems to melt away instantly. He simply turns on the spot and lets out a more relaxed scent to Pezzy, patting the other on the head. “Thanks Pez. I'll do that now.”

Smitty then kisses Pezzy on the head before leaving the room, leaving John mentally stunned.

How come Pezzy got all the attention? No one ever questioned Pezzy for taking clothes or getting preheat sickness! It wasn't fair!

He thought about it more.. Pezzy was the mirror image of a perfect Omega, whereas he… wasn't….. As a Delta, John loved to talk back to the alphas, maybe that's why they were unsympathetic now. Was he getting Karma’d?

This must be some sort of payback he guesses with a frown. Kinda rude to make him travel when his heat would be starting (especially since they had postponed for Pezzy once before), but it is what it is….

Somehow, it hurts him more than it should.

John really hated life for cursing him like this. It's fine. He could probably try and nest in a hotel on the way to Toronto one night. It should be okay. He ignores his Delta screaming at the horror of that idea.

Heat and travel didn't mix well.

“Damn John, what crawled up your ass and fucking died?” Puffer asked, walking in. He also doesn't look impressed by John's lack of packing effort, carrying something rather… lumpy in his hands.

John flinches in shock at the taller man's voice. He hadn't even realised Pezzy had left during his bitter self reflection, Puffer is now just standing in front of him, looking curious and slightly annoyed. He makes eye contact with the other man, eyes narrowing at the younger. “Nothing…” he answers cautiously, not feeling like talking.

Puffer just snorts, not really believing him, “Dude you're just stuck in place, glaring at the floor, are you sure you're doing alright?”

“I’m. Fine.” John replied shortly, trying his best to avoid sounding annoyed. He doesn't think he's doing a very good job.

He doesn't need Puffer trying to step in now and solve all his issues. Or gloat. It's Puffer, he's probably going to tease him before trying to help and John does not want to deal with that right now.

It's fine. He is FINE.

No he's not lying…

John looks over and sees what Puffer is holding and slightly deflates. Of fucking course this happens today.

It's the one piece of clothing of Puffer's from John's small nest he reluctantly keeps in his room. It's Puffer’s old merch hoodie, which he usually keeps entwined with a pair of Grizzy’s track pants, wrapped over a pillow. Speaking of, Puffer seems to be holding those pants too.

The nest that sits in John's room is the remnants of the one Pezzy and Droid helped him out with making, during his first heat. The nest had sat, unused for a while, until a moment of sheer weakness had occurred and John spent a good hour tidying it up and working on it. It was the only nest he allowed himself to keep, part of his brain unwilling to give it up, especially since it carries meaning for him.

And Puffer has just ruined the perfect balance of scents. John can't help but take it as an attack on himself.

“Ah. I hope you don't mind. I'm taking this hoodie back so I can wear it in Canada. I didn't realise you'd stolen it, I've been looking for it for weeks.” Puffer says, seeing John shoot a look at it.

John doubts Puffer bothered to replace the hoodie too. How fucking great!

Someone has touched his shithole of a nest, right when he wanted to retreat into it. They all probably think because he's only a Delta that he doesn't mind. If he was an Omega would they be doing this too? Is it because it's John? Are they trying to get him back for his blunt attitude?

“That's okay I guess.” John sniffs, trying to not look utterly distraught at the feeling of inadequacy flooding through his mind.

He also tries not to snap aggressively at his pack mate. He needs to get the fuck out of here.

He really is trying to calm down, but his body is working itself up into a tantrum, much to his displeasure. He's a fucking 31 year old man, he doesn't need to be screaming like a toddler.

Although, every fibre inside of him screams for the stupid Beta to put his fucking clothing back where he found it. To leave John’s nest and John alone but he doesn’t say anything else. He bites his tongue, holding back a growl.

“Cool.” Puffer smiles, and then he is slinking away back to his own room, to finish his own packing. Great.

John watches him go, feeling his left eye twitch. He has to resist the urge to throw a cushion at the others retreating body.

He needs to get up and do something before he does something dumb like strangling Puffer or tackling him to the ground for the hoodie. John instead decides to go see if Blarg managed to fix the wheel on his suitcase. He hopes so.

He pops his head into Blarg's office first, slightly taken aback seeing Smitty standing next to Matt, who's also now got Pezzy sitting on his lap. He's not really up to dealing with more than one on one contact right now, but it can't be helped, he needs to finish packing soon.

He's struck however, by how hard jealousy hits him. The fact he's too tall to do something cute like Pezzy can. He's not an Omega. He’s a stupid fucking halfbreed Delta piece of shit.

God he's already seething with rage, this isn't looking good for the car trip later.

John pointedly ignores the sulking feeling in his body and brain, instead watching the others point at Google maps and talk for a bit. Smitty and Matt eventually nod at each other, satisfied as Smitty takes a step back. Matt then tabs out of the maps screen, going back to discord. He’s frowning.

“Hey Matt, just checking if you had time to look at my suitcase?” John asked quickly, not wanting to be a pain. He ignores the confused glance Smitty sends him, focusing solely on Matt.

Matt sighed, not looking back at John before sheepishly replying. “I'm sorry John, I need to sort this video out with my editor first.” Matt then lets out a grumpy hiss at another image of corruption on the video timeline, replying to his editor with some questions.

John slightly deflated before looking back over at Smitty who absentmindedly had started folding up Matt's clothes that he had haphazardly pulled out, but not yet started packing.

Smitty is frowning at Matt's failed folding skills yet again, whilst trying to make conversation with John, who's currently feeling too hurt to want to do anything.

“I’m this close to just breaking something. How can he still not fold his own clothes!!” Smitty laughs softly to himself. “I swear, you would think this man is a child, the way he's so inept at it. 29 years old, still can barely pair up fucking socks…”

Smitty obviously wants John to chime in with a joking insult about Matt, however John just bites the inside of his cheek, gnawing on the skin, stopping himself from saying anything. If he says anything it would be deliberately hurtful, and he's trying to hold back.

His inner Delta is massively annoyed at how he seems to be everyone's last priority right now. No one even seems to care that he's going into heat soon!

He knows it’s irrational, but to his hormonal brain, it feels like no one in his pack cares about him. They're always touching his nest, eating his food, dismissing him when he needs it. (Not that he would be caught dead needing it.) It's fine though… he's probably just overreacting. It's not like he's an Omega, he's just a Delta. A faulty Omega. No one's first choice for a mate, just a runner up prize that you throw away after a fun night of drinking.

His stupid brain is however, taking it all to heart, the little voice in the back of his head telling him that they all think he’s being annoying, needy and a pain.

He knows they're probably gonna apologise later. It's okay.

John just frowns, grabbing his suitcase back. He's just gonna go figure the wheel out himself, it's fine. He doesn't need anyone else. He's lived 30 years as a Beta, he doesn't need to start being all submissive and clingy now.

Smitty intercepts him as he goes to leave, realising something's off when John didnt join in on teasing Matt. He looks concerned, much to John's annoyance.

“... Wait. What’s wrong? Something's up with you…” Smitty stops him suddenly, eyes locked on John who’s trying to awkwardly carry his suitcase away. “Is it because I snapped at you earlier? I'm sorry, you know how I am when it comes to the Canada trip….”

“I'm fine. You weren't even mad, I'm not a fucking pussy.” John snorts, doing his best to look bored and not distressed, ignoring the white hot knife pain in his lower gut.

Fucking stupid Delta heats.

Smitty stares up at him, eyebrow raised, studying John. Smitty looks worried, like he might be realising there's something more to John's weird behaviour.

A flicker of… something passes through John's brain, (hope?) happy that someone noticed, but it's quickly squashed back by the more stubborn part saying he doesn't need any help, especially from an Alpha.

Smitty raises an eyebrow. “It doesn't make you a… pussy to be upset or hurt by what I said man. You don't look okay…”

As Smitty carefully reaches a hand up to place it on his shoulder, John is taken aback while looking at Smitty. It's too hard pretending to be some unfeeling giant when he always did melt under Smitty's gaze. It's especially hard to hide something from him when he's like this.

It's too easy to pretend Smitty cares.

“Nothing, I'm fine.” he casually lies, biting his tongue and focusing on clutching the empty bag to his chest. He wants to come off as sounding borderline annoyed, but he's worried it passed for more of a distressed tone.

Smitty looks skeptical, clearly doubting him, before he sniffs him as a last resort to try and sense any distress or sadness in his scent, obviously finding something to go off as he comes away frowning at the results.

Fuck. Now he really needs to get the fuck of here.

John screws his nose up at him, praying to a God he doesn't believe in that his scent hasn't changed to its more heat aligned sweeter one, and it's just leaking some of his anger out.

He doesn't want to deal with anyones fake sympathy, so he quickly steps away, yanking his shoulder back, before snapping at the younger; “What are you doing? Don't try to like… lie detector test me by scenting me! I'm fucking fine. Go away you freak.” he tries to add a joke at the end, not actually wanting to upset Smitty, despite how annoyed he is.

Mentally John’s Delta is cheering; this is it! This is when he realises John’s almost in heat and postpones the trip!

“You smell..kinda weird though… like sad or upset or something,” Smitty mumbles self consciously, ignoring John's more harsh words. “And you’re being like…. More grouchy than usual, all of a sudden. D-do you not want to come to Canada with us?” he asks, rubbing his arm and looking slightly sad. “You don't have to come.”

Shit. Now he's made Smitty self conscious. What a piece of shit he is!

John tries to keep his panic down, changing his tone to go for a more bashful one as he rolls his eyes. “You must have a bad nose today, Smit. I'm always grouchy, remember? I'm John! Of course I wanna come with, but my suitcase is fucking broken and I'm fucking annnoyed at that!” He lies, voice barely stuttering as he acts all calm to convince Smitty.

“I-” Smitty is then cut off by Grizzy entering the hallway and raising an eyebrow at the two stuck in the doorway.

“What did I miss? Who's always grouchy? Yo… whys it look like y'all are gonna fight or fuck or something…warn a brother next time…” Grizzy says, brushing past the two to enter the room and with that he’s disrupted the almost tense discussion taking place.

“Yo it's like a party in here now! I just wanted to see the map route but I'm down for a cuddle session!” Grizzy winked towards Matt and Pezzy, trying to lighten the mood, succeeding at making the others all relax.

“Don't worry about the drive map routes by the way, we managed to sort that shit out!” Pezzy chirped, giving Grizzy a thumbs up. Grizzy ruffles Pezzy’s hair, making the older smile softly at him.

John pouts dramatically, hiding it quickly and playing up how he feels to try to sneak away with his lies intact. “Smitty’s nose is like… broken or something, because he thinks I smell sad or whatever. I'm trying to tell him that I'm just mad at this stupid fucking bag!” John says to Grizzy, trying to get the youngest Alpha on his side. He hopes the other falls for it.

“You do smell sad though.” Grizzy says bluntly, joining in on sniffing the air. “I dunno though.. Maybe it is just anger. I'm not good at picking up the difference. My allergies are playing up again.. speaking of, we better not be driving past too many crop fields…I do not want to be sneezing the whole trip…”

“Hah!” Smitty jumps back in, pointing an accusatory finger at John who growls quietly at the focus coming back to himself.

God damn he wants to bite someone. He wants to go and sulk, alone for a bit before he needs to pack. Is that so hard to ask?

“Damn all the Alphas in this house can't smell for fucking shit. You're just confused because my scent is different now, and you're overthinking shit because you're stressed over this trip..” John said harshly, trying to back up and escape.

“I'm not gonna lie, I don't think that's it,” Grizzy says with a frown, Smitty hesitantly takes another step forward, again looking slightly hurt.

“You do know we care about you John, right? We just wanna know you're doing okay? If you really are, I'll believe you and stop pushing.” Smitty says, staring him in the eyes, looking worried. Fuck.

John feels a flicker of guilt. Why doesn't he fully believe Smitty when he says he cares? If he cared, why hasn't he told him to go and relax for his heat?

“Hmmmmmm. Well I'm fine, so the stuff you're smelling has to be anger,” John insists, raising an eyebrow challengingly at Grizzy. “Because I’m totally fucking fine. You'll know when I'm upset because I won't stop complaining, remember?”

“Are you sure? You do sometimes like to suffer in silence,” Pezzy says with almost a whine, eagerly crowding into John’s space as if that would make it all better.

John just gets more angry.

John then glares at all four of his pack mates, pushing himself past Grizzy, Pezzy and a worried Smitty, storming out the door.

“I'm gonna go fix this suitcase okay? Y'all don't need to fucking crowd around me alright?” He scowls at the others, stalking away.

He's more bothered then he wants to admit, chest stinging with hurt aching down to his core. He doesn't want to admit weakness. He can't be like that. He needs to be independent.

He needs to get away from the pack Alphas and their damn sensitive noses. He doesn't even pause to say goodbye to them.

It’s only sort of a lie, he supposes as he stalks off quickly. Maybe after he relaxes he can focus on packing….. the only problem is his heat is slowly coming at him full force, he wouldn’t be surprised if it ended up starting later today.

His body is really craving sleep right now and endless rest; maybe a big meal too in preparation, but his brain isn’t going to let him fully relax until he settles into his nest.

Which he can't do because they're leaving in a few hours. And his nest is ruined. Fuck.

“What are you doing?” Droid asks, intercepting him on his way to his room. John sighs, it seemed wanting some alone time was impossible in this house. Perks of living with 6 other people.

“Mmm, I'm gonna finish packing, and like… fix my suitcase.” John replied shortly, not offering anything else of substance.

“Okay, that sounds cool,” Droid says excitedly. “If you need any help packing feel free to ask for help okay? I'm all done! Usually it takes me forever!!”

John doesn’t reply, he just keeps walking, the suitcase bulky as all hell and making him irrationally mad. He sighs pausing to breathe, not wanting to snap at poor Droid, who doesn't deserve any of his building irrational anger.

“I'm guessing you're also good for now... so I'll see you later?” Droid mentions, eagerness reined in more now, smiling softly at John. “Good luck packing okay?” before Droid is heading back to find everyone else.

“Thanks,” John replies quietly, walking away, heaving the clunky suitcase with him. He chooses to ignore the anger and rage pulsing through him, reminding himself of his father whenever he starts feeling sorry for himself.

He doesn't blame any of his pack for their treatment of him. He's basically asked to be treated as a Beta, and 95% of the time that's great for him. He just wishes there was a code word or something for the other 5% of the day.

John carefully shuts the door to his room, leaning against it for a second with a sigh.

His eyes glance over at his nest, or the remains of his nest. His inner Delta is stuck deflating a little at the sight of so many missing or moved pieces and gets to work at attempting to fix it.

It's honestly not even worth it.

He looks around his room, frowning when he doesn't see his special blanket. The main piece.

Wait. Smitty was washing it the other day. Nononono. It better not be in the wash still.

John quickly darts outside the room, sprinting quietly to the couch in the main room.

Aha! Of course it was left here. The blanket was fuzzy and warm and thick enough that it was a cozy nest base if he had to make it on the floor. The best part was it still smelled like everyone, John regularly bringing it out for cuddle sessions.

He eagerly dashes back to his room, shutting the door again. John moves the pillows back into place, weaving the remaining shirts from his Alphas back into place before smiling in a moment of weakness at how excited he was.

Looking approvingly at his repaired nest, John nodded to himself. He really should be packing some more, but he can afford a quick nap, he muses, pre-heat pains stabbing him like kitchen knives.

—-

John is awoken about thirty minutes later to a now annoyed Matt banging on his door. Fuck.

“Dude John, we're literally leaving in a few hours! You haven't even started packing yet have you? What the hell!! Seriously, start packing now or we're leaving you behind. Smitty said you were slacking off earlier too so get into fucking gear!!”

“I’m sorry.” John mumbles.

“I’m serious. Be ready in two hours or you’re staying here with all the animals and i'm cancelling the pet sitter. I’ll save a few hundred. Up to you.” Matt snaps.

The sound of the Alphas' feet stomping away made John jolt a little. He felt queasy as all hell, but his Delta brain was starting to stress out.

They really wouldn't leave him behind right before his heat right? That would be cruel.

He knows he's not very good at listening, but that's a bit of an extreme punishment, denying him all human contact with his pack before one of the worst times of the year.

John reluctantly gets to his feet and starts packing. He blearily adds clothes to one suitcase, for once not really caring about matching his clothing or outfits. He just wants comfy clothes. In his second suitcase he adds the soft blanket, which takes up most of the suitcase already, brain letting out a whine of distress.

He can't pack his whole nest in there. He bites his lip in worry. John sticks to clothes of his own that Pezzy and Smitty had borrowed and returned recently. John shoves it all in before quickly grabbing a box of scent blocker patches. If his heat hit bad, he didn't wanna be ruining the car with his stench.

That would be selfish of him.

They were unfortunately travelling in two cars up to Smitty's Canadian house for the holidays, not flying, so it would be about two and a half days of driving.

John couldn't help but be bitter over the fact that when Pezzy’s heat hit the day they were going to leave for Tyler's 4th of July weekend party the Monday before, they had postponed the trip until Thursday when the worst was over.

Or the time when they were supposed to meet up before they all lived together.

“Guys I'm sorry but we need to postpone the trip a few days.” Droid said apologetically to the group.

John felt saddened at the news, being the only one from the pack who lived isolated at the time. “Why? Is everything okay?”

“What John said, are you guys alright? No one's sick are they?” Smitty asked worriedly, ever the mom friend of the group.

“Bet Puffer got sick again.” Matt said snickering, the other alpha giggling a bit thinking about the tall betas luck.

“Nah it's just awkward as fuck here man.” Droid whined; “Grizzy presented finally as a fucking alpha which triggered Pezzy to go into a reactionary heat of sorts. Puffer and Grizzy are taking care of him right now. You guys can still fly out here but you're gonna have to stay in Puffers house. We don't need two more alphas making Grizzy distressed. John you can come over though since you're a beta.”

“Fair enough.” John nodded, processing the news about yet another alpha in the pack.

“Aww yeah…. Nah that's all good. Matt and I will message when we get in tomorrow, and stay at Puffer's place till Pezzy and Grizzy feel good enough to see us.” Smitty says musing to the others.

“Sounds good. Don't wanna move an Omega during their heat. It can make the heat so much worse…” Matt muttered to himself.

“Thanks for understanding guys, I'll come over and see you when you arrive.”

He loves his Alphas. He really does.

Smitty is practically the leader of the pack. He wouldn't admit that however, but everyone looked to him for guidance and care. Smitty always looked out for each of them individually and helped plan events and schedule shit for them all.

Matt is such a kind and doting Alpha, always making sure Pezzy had anything he needed for his heats, making sure all tensions were diffused in the pack. He was like the mom of the pack.

And finally Grizzy was strong but reassuring. He was the muscle that protected the pack, making everyone feel safe. Grizzy would go to the ends of the earth for all of them.

It was such an odd dynamic for a pack to have three Alphas and only one Omega but they made it work fine with very little fuss.

Then John had to go and fuck up the dynamic, ruining the established peace.

Pezzy was the perfect Omega, loyal and lovable and soft and sweet. He didn't need his reputation accidentally ruined by some other genetic fuck up anomaly.

It’s just…. John is loud and abrasive and rude and he doesn’t know how to submit to Smitty or Grizzy or Matt the same way Pezzy does.

He wants to stand his ground, fight them, even if they're the Alpha. They could use their Alpha voice on him, but the fact his body now can react without his control actually makes him panic. It doesn't help him relax, he feels like he's drowning in himself, trapped in the back of his mind.

He doesn’t know why his pack puts up with him half of the time. He's a failure.

John sniffles a little. He isn’t crying, he isn’t about to let himself cry. He just…his eyes just have dust in them.

Pathetic. As his father would say.

He wipes his tears quickly, finishing packing before he runs into the bathroom to put on some scent blocking patches. He quickly sprayed some perfume that smells similar to his normal scent over the top and prayed no one would notice the difference.

He dragged his suitcases out to the front, standing by quietly as everyone else chats excitedly about the trip, not talking to anyone. He ignores the disappointed look that Matt and Smitty shoot him.

John quietly gets in the back seat of one of the cars and just pulls his phone out, placing some relaxing asmr calming audio on, and tries to calm down from his hysterics.

He's not doing a very good job, one hour into driving. His Delta is very upset and bitter about how his packmates have been treating him. He knows they love him, but he's having a hard time believing it at the moment with all the recent behaviours / incidents.

In his upset mind, he's overreacting to the trip. His brain is convinced this is just some ploy by the alphas to not let him feel safe during his heat. The fact they made him leave his home and nest right before heat, his brain is screaming they don't see him as a viable mate anymore, or this is a punishment. They all just keep ignoring him, ignoring all the warning signs, and it's upsetting to him.

His throat is now tight with emotion. John tries to swallow, but the spit can’t get past the lump that swells and blocks his airway, as he blinks back tears. He quietly sips some water, listening to his friends joke and laugh in the car.

He's never felt more misunderstood.

Arriving at his hotel door he pauses, a hand lingering on the door knob as an idea comes to mind... Maybe he should make a temporary nest for tonight?.....

It's such a bad idea.

John shuts his Delta down instantly, ignoring the whining he wants to do. Sighing, John draws in on himself, opening the door to his bedroom.

With a deep sigh, John walks over to what will be his bed for the night, leaving the other for Pezzy. He so badly wants to start pulling the blankets off to make a new nest, but he doesn’t want to have to clean it up tomorrow. Or worse…if some cleaner were to come in and touch it, he would probably break down.

This close to his heat, it might make him go feral.

Much to his surprise he missed the nest he had at home, as broken as it was. He was more unusual compared to his pack, the fact that the others would regularly destroy their own nests and rebuild them, whereas he had a panic attack thinking about that.

Pezzy had a few different nests at home, the pack also had one big share one, and sometimes Puffer and Droid would make one if they were having a really shitty time. John however had never made one until he became a Delta.

Unfortunately for him, not having a nest at the current moment makes his skin itch and his hair stand on end. It feels wrong. Like he's missing water or something he needs to survive.

He doesn't focus on his miserable thoughts, he just puts his suitcases to the side and gets ready for the dinner they're having out tonight.

After all, they would expect him to be there and to look good. It's all he's good for.

Much to John's misery, his leg starts twitching during dinner. It's jumping around and won't stop. He knows it's because his whole body is on edge, anxious about being away from home and his normal nest, this close to his heat.

He looks around the table, watching as Smitty and Matt laugh at something Pezzy says, feeling more jealousy fill his veins. He knows he shouldn't be jealous, but he just is!

Puffer and Grizzy are having an in depth conversation about… something? Maybe a new meme or a video game? John isn't sure, but Puffer is talking while also being quite animated, moving his hands around, while Grizzy watches with an amused smile.

He flicks his eyes to the next person. Droid is staring straight at John. John jumps at the sight.

“Ha-ha. Sorry John. Wanted to see how long it would take you to notice.” Droid smiles apologetically, offering a small smile. “Didn't mean to spook you man.”

John shakes his head, trying to ignore his shaking legs. “It's all good, I'm not used to people staring me down like that, you just surprised me.”

John goes back to the hotel room he's sharing with Pezzy. He gives up, his mind is tweaking out. He needs to nest. Now.

Where can he stash it though? This is a strange area, it doesn't feel safe to make it on the bed like normal. He definitely needs to hide it, not wanting strangers to be able to find it or him easily.

John looks around the hotel room now, unsure. It's pretty bare. Two beds, a couch, a cuck chair. The curtains and small side table look nice, but they're of no use to him right now. He could nest in the bathroom, but that's a bit too far for even him.

John sighs. Much to his dismay, it seems the only option is between the bed and the wall.

He closes the curtain, making sure there's enough room for his blanket before he quickly opens his nesting suitcase. It doesn't look too pretty, John not really wanting to use the hotel's supplies in his nest, but it's adequate for tonight he thinks.

He pulls out a pillowcase from Pezzys bed back home, slides it over a pillow and stuffs that in his nest, brain relaxing at the smell of the pack.

Fuck he misses his closet at home. He had more scented items! It's not fair!

John closes his eyes and pictures his large walk in closest at home. It’s filled to the brim with his own customized clothes, also with all his different pairs of shoes crowding the space, one whole row filled with various stolen clothing and nesting attire. He could just pop in and add more stuff to his nest.

John shakes his head, turning the light off, checking his phone before relaxing into the nest.

Two messages.

One from Pezzy; “Hey John, staying with Droid and Puffer tonight, don't wait up for me :3.”

One from Smitty: “John we're leaving early tomorrow. You better be up by 7am on the dot okay buddy?”

John just replies a thumbs up to both messages, huffing to himself and rolling his eyes.

He rolls around his nest, settling for laying on his back, the trembling in his body fading away at the fact he's in a nest now. He's alone. As he deserves

His Delta screams for company, for an Alpha… for anyone… to join him in the nest, but he ignores that part of himself.

He's stronger than that.

He's not stronger than that, it turns out.

John cracks an eye lid open, looking at the clock which reads “1am”.

His body doesn't like the unfamiliar space, he loathes the fact the scents on his blanket are already fading and he's feeling lonely. John silences a whine in the back of his throat, adding a sheet from Pezzy’s hotel bed to his nest. There's just enough scent on the sheet to ease his brain, but it barely helps.

He's a bit worried about how much he's sweating already though. Sweat is already starting to pool on his clothing, running off his forehead down his neck. His heat was hitting him hard and fast.

He feels like sobbing. He has to be up and ready to go back in the cramped car in a few hours. He doesn't have time for his heat..

John huffs out mournfully. At least it wouldn't get worse than this.

He was lying to himself.

It's 5am now.

Heat churns inside of him, making his abdomen cramp with need and his skin sticky and gross. His limbs feel heavy and his brain can’t keep up with his eyes, making the world feel laggy around him. Maybe a nap would help him?

John tries to close his eyes, tries to sleep, but nothing happens.

Internally, he keeps trying to tell himself that it’s going to be okay but…

John’s scared. He's alone, his Delta is also high key freaking out because of that. The nest is shitty and he doesn’t know how to make it better, limited by hotel products and unfamiliar landscaping.

He doesn't want to go get help because he's worried the others will be mad at him for making an inconvenience. He doesn't want to admit he needs help either, scared strangers will smell him and attack him.

He's safe here, he keeps trying to tell himself.

He wants to cry, but his pride can't handle it. He keeps wondering if he was Pezzy, this close to his heat, would he have been left alone? Or is it just because he's John, they think he's independent enough to handle a heat by himself.

John rubs his face against Pezzy’s sheet, mournfully whining to himself.

It’s the best part of the nest because it smells like a bit of his pack, though he’s missing all the other scents. He wants to invite any of them in, but he knows better than to do so. If he lets someone in, then his nest will get found and stolen.

Alone, he settles down, snuggles up, and lets his eyes fall shut, panting heavily as sleep takes him, feeling more isolated than ever.

A sound pulls him out of his sleep, but the heat makes him confused. His phone is vibrating. He groggily reached for it, hitting accept on the call.

“JOHN. WHERE THE FUCK ARE YOU? ITS 7:15, PEZZY IS COMING UP TO GET YOU, YOU BETTER BE READY.” Smitty roars through the phone.”I’ll leave you here…”

John jerks away from the loud yelling, sighing at the end tone of his call finishing.

He quickly gets up, packs his nest away (his inner Delta howling in pain), and runs to the bathroom.

He looks at himself in the mirror, quickly splashing his face with water, brushing his hair quickly with his fingers. Whatever. It's good enough.

He frowns at his reflection, not liking the dark rings under his eyes. He quickly reaches into his toiletries bag, pulling out a few scent blockers, putting them on his neck and thighs. That would stop him from stinking up the car he was sharing. He wouldn't want to be anymore of a pain.

Pezzy knocks at the room door; “John can I come in? Are you decent?”

John shakes his head, it's not like Pezzy hasn't seen it all before. John silences a whine in his throat, wanting to get his nest back out and cuddle, but he holds firm in his decision.

“John? Are you here? It's 7:30.” a voice calls out, Pezzy says, opening the hotel room door.

John exits the bathroom, grunting. “Sorry I overslept, maybe I'm coming down with something.”

Socked feet shuffle across the floor, coming to John's bed. Pezzy eyes John with scrutiny, as if deciding if he believed the others' excuse. John seems to pass the test as Pezzy reaches for one of his bags.

“Grizzy saved you a bagel from the breakfast buffet, I'll help you take this shit to the car! You're going with Puffer and Droid today, plus the extra luggage if you're okay with that?” he asks gently, making eye contact with John.

“Sounds good.” John replied quietly, reaching for his other suitcase carrying his nest.

He followed Pezzy into the elevator thinking to himself; If he was travelling with Puffer and Droid, he would be fine. They wouldn't be able to scent him if his blockers started to fail! He could breathe a little easier, one thing off his chest.

He steps out to the lobby, Grizzy waiting with a beaming smile, holding out a bagel with cream cheese for him. John offers him a small smile with thanks.

“No problem man. Gotta take care of my pack, you feel me?” Grizzy says, fluffing his hair up.

John just pulls his suitcase up to where Puffer and Droid were waiting, chatting quietly. They both offered him small smiles as well, waving to him as he approached.

He slides into the back seat and then he's set.

The second car trip is… fine. John spends the whole time zoned out, disassociating. He doesn't like long trips, much preferring to fly, but the others had been so keen to drive for once, wanting to make it a whole thing.

He's trying hard not to sulk in the back seat, instead he's on his laptop, pretending to edit, when in reality he's playing off-line poly Bridge and losing over and over.

After the 10th failure on a particularly hard level, he shuts his laptop, placing it back in his bag and instead stares out the window for the next few hours.

They pull into the next hotel's parking lot as the sun's going down, quickly running in and grabbing the keys for the three rooms. John's honestly barely even focused on anything. He's playing it off as travel sickness, the others seemingly buying it, as he follows Pezzy to their room again.

He drops tiredly onto his bed, trying desperately to sleep the nausea and cramps away, closing his eyes to try and escape his suffering.

“Yo John, are you coming with us for dinner?” Puffer asks quietly, gently touching his shoulder.

John doesn't open his eyes to reply. “Nah I'll eat something later, I'm so tired… and my stomach kinda hurts from the trip…. You guys go have fun though.”

You'll probably have more fun if I'm not there.

Puffer strokes his hair a few times to comfort him, before stepping away and switching his shoes.

“Okay we're off then. Don't be having a party while we're gone!” Pezzy giggles.

“Bye.” John mumbles, rolling over.

He lays there, sweating for the next two hours.

He isn't able to sleep, only jolting out of disassociation at the sound of the door opening. He doesn't want to deal with the others' questioning, so he feigns still being asleep.

“Shhhhh. He's asleep.” Pezzy whispers to the other, who turns out to be Puffer again.

“Oh shit you're right. Okay um. I was promised cuddles on the down-low?” Puffer says quietly, getting a barely silenced giggle from Pezzys mouth.

“Come here then you big baby.”

John's stuck now. He finds himself unable to even open his eyes, stuck trying to pant quietly. His body is slowly heating up, it already feels as if there's lava flowing through his veins, that's how warm he feels. This was so much worse than his other heats already and e hasn't even properly started it yet! The fact pre-heat for Deltas was inconsistent and could last anywhere from 6 hours to 6 days was bullshit!

John knew he was close to his full blown heat though, some sort of primal instinct telling him that. He honestly just hoped it would hold off until they made it to Smittys house. He could hole off in one of the rooms while his pack went out and had fun without him.

John doesn't even bother opening his suitcase to get his nesting materials out later. He knows if he does he won't be able to leave in the morning.

Instead he just curls up even tighter, hugging a pillow and tries his best to ignore Pezzy and Puffer’s quiet cooing, romantic noises.

He's so fucking jealous, wanting to slide over there and join in, but he hasn't been invited and he doesn't want Pezzy figuring it all out.

He doesn't need them knowing, because he's not ready to see that they don't care.

Come morning, John is cranky. He's barely slept a wink, body too warm and too sticky. He's sleep deprived and miserable. He just wants the car trip to be over already.

The advantage of not sleeping however means he can have a thorough shower, to help cool his body down. He can already tell today is the day it properly kicks off, so he takes time to cover himself in the free soaps that the hotel has provided, to drown out his sweeter heat scent. He slaps on numerous scent blockers, spraying himself down with perfume again, before drying his still damp hair.

He quickly tidies his clothes up, packing them away, pausing before he leaves to stare at Puffer and Pezzy, still cuddled up together. He holds back a jealous sneer, instead focusing on walking straight while his legs feel like jelly.

He goes to the dining room on the first floor, bumping into Matt sitting at a table, drinking a cup of coffee. Matt looks surprised to see him.

“Oh hi John! You're up early? Sleep well?” He asks, going in to scent John in a hug.

John really wants to dodge the hug, but he figures his scent still smells of shampoo and soap so he's safe enough.

“Mmm. Not really, just excited to be back at Smittys.” John replies in a monotone voice.

Matt nods, pulling away. “Wow man, did you leave any free samples for the rest of them? That's a lot of different scents on you. Phew.” He remarks casually, John finding himself getting defensive.

“I just had a nice shower. It's fine.” John mumbles, walking over to grab a drink. He probably needs coffee, but this close to his heat makes him feel sick, so he opts for simple orange juice instead. Matt raises an eyebrow at the lack of caffeine, John quickly coming up with an excuse.

“Oh I wanna snooze in the car and if I drink coffee now I won't be able to do that.” John explains, seeing Matt nod in understanding. He decides to try to make friendly conversation with Matt while waiting for the others to show.

“Excited to be nearly back in Canada?” John asks, sipping a mouthful of juice.

Matt smiles wide, flapping his hands excitedly. “Aww man you know it! I'm so excited to go to another hockey game with everyone. Sucks that we had to change and go a week earlier this year, meaning I had to rebook the tickets but it's all cool.” He explains, John frowning in confusion.

“Wait what? I just thought this was the date we were going? When did that all get…” John swallowed. “Decided on?”

Matt paused thinking, before remembering. “Ah yeah, we pushed it forward because Pezzys is going into heat next week, and we wanted plenty of time for him to settle and get comfortable before then. Us four talked about it and decided it was the best idea.”

“Us four?” John asks in confusion.

“Yeah the Alphas and Pezzy. We came up with this so that he wouldn't be too stressed with his heat. You know how Omegas can be in heat.” Matt says, elbowing John as if there was some sort of a joke he should be laughing at.

John suddenly feels even more nauseous. They knew Pezzy’s heats and planned around him, moving earlier for him. Of course.

He ignores the voice trying to tell himself not even he knows his own heat schedule, that they had no way of knowing. They're trying their best!

Jealousy however, was a fickle being, worming its way through John's heart. He needs to get away for a bit, quickly, before he has a cry right here.

John looks up, seeing Smitty and Droid entering the room, giving himself an opening. “Yo Matt, I'm gonna do a last minute pop to the bathroom, but it looks like Smitty and Droid are here now. Hopefully y'all don't have too much fun while I'm gone!” John teases, stepping away from the table.

“Oh you actually woke up today.” Smitty teases John as he walks past him. John has to fight his body to not freeze up, wanting to fight Smitty.

“Mmm yeah. Just keen to get there.” He mumbles out, heading for the bathroom.

“Don't worry I'll watch your bags while you're shitting.” Droid smiles, blowing him a kiss.

John blushes at this, his heat hormones making him feel more emotional, barely able to stutter out a “thankyou” before fleeing.

He rushes into the bathroom, relieved that no one else is in there and grips the sink. He just needs to last a little bit longer. He can do this.

He's Fine.

He honestly doesn't even remember the last car trip, only tuning back into reality as they are pulling into the driveway. He slowly gets out, letting everyone chat to each other, Smitty going to the front to unlock the house.

As he clutches his suitcases close, he decides to hang back while everyone rushes to the bedroom and guest bedroom. He can hear Pezzy suggest they make a group nest in Smitty's master bedroom together, which gets some discussion started.

John wants to join in, but he just can't deal with that many people right now.

Dragging his bags, he climbs up the stairs, looking for a more quiet place to make a nest. He frowns at the lack of options, until he sees it. Smitty's old recording room.

He walks over, opening the door. The room still smells like him, from all the time he spent in this room recording. It feels safe.

John wheels the suitcases in, carefully shutting the door. There's Smitty's old set-up, still on the desk, a small table, an old couch, and some YouTube merch that's just laying around. It looks promising.

John grabs the couch cushions off first, using them to mark out the edges of his heat nest. He quickly grabs out the blanket, plus the sheet he stole from that hotel, making a nice base to the nest. He pulls out mostly his own clothes, slotting them around the pile, thinking to himself where to put them.

He stands up quickly, leaving the room to quickly use the toilet, frowning at the fact he was already getting slick developing.

He did a quick trip to the kitchen, grabbing some water bottles and a pack of museli bars someone had brought along, before running back upstairs to the office and shutting the door. He wished there was a lock on the door, but he's too far gone to care now.

Heat fully hitting him, he whines quietly, shedding his shirt, shorts and all the scent blockers, stuffing the clothes under the door crack to stop the scent leaking out.

He's fine. He'll handle this himself. He doesn't need anyone else's help.

As he drifts off to a heat infected restless slumber, he can't recall the last time one of them even cared to ask when his next heat would be.

“Has anyone seen John?” Smitty asks, trying to stop Pezzy from grabbing yet another blanket out of the cupboard.

“Oh shit. I swore I saw him come inside?” Grizzy said, looking around. “Maybe not?”

“He was kinda sleepy in the car on the way over.” Puffer mused out loud. “Barely spoke to us.”

“I can go look for him if you want?” Matt asked, tripping over a blanket, making the others laugh.

Droid stepped away from the wall he was leaning against. “Nah I got this, I've got the keys in case his ass is still asleep out there. I'll be back, okay?”

The others just nodded in agreement, Droid waving as he stepped out the bedroom.

He quickly darted outside, checking the car to see it empty. Good. Then John had to be inside somewhere.

Droid walked back inside, checking all the rooms downstairs before shrugging. Maybe he went to use the upstairs bathroom?

He saw the door was still open, frowning again. Where could John be? He checked all the rooms quickly, before pausing at Smitty's office. Could he be in here?

Droid grabbed the door handle, going to open it when it caught on something. He frowned. Smitty never mentioned the door sticking before….

He pushed the door open with more force, sighing when it opened enough to slip inside. He closed it before turning around.

There was John, snoozing in a nest it appeared he had made himself, almost naked.

Why would John be doing this? It's not like he's in.

Oh shit.

John isn't a beta anymore. How could he have fucking forgotten?

“Oh shit. I totally forgot you would be going into heat soon…” Droid quietly exclaims, making John's sensitive hearing perk up. He groans out in pain at another cramp snaking through him.

Droid kneels down next to John's head, offering him a hand, letting John scent it before beginning to gently pet his hair. “Why are you here alone? Are you okay?”

John huffs out a noise, not opening his eyes, but leaning into the touch still. Droid lets out a small laugh at how needy John is being.

“Loud.” Is all John says, rolling onto his back into a submissive stance. Droid coos quietly at how vulnerable John is being with him, gently moving his hand to stroke John's belly.

“I wish I could help you more man.” He whispers, letting John nuzzle into his arm. “I had no idea.”

“S'all right.” John slurs out, focusing on the more muted scent of Droid. Droid smelt like… like the smell of the ground after a rainstorm had hit. Very calming.

“I should… I should go get the Alphas.” Droid says, making John freeze. “Wait what's wrong?”

“I don't need help.” John pouts, sulking. “I'm FINE.”

Droid puts his hands up in mock surrender, “Fine I'll grab Pezzy, he'll know what to-”

“No.” John snapped out, letting out a growl. His Delta was jealous of the younger, and he didn't want to accidentally start a fight.

“John, come on. Be reasonable here. Someone else needs to know.” Droid pleaded.

John turned away, pulling away from Droid, curling up to himself. “I don't need any Alphas to help me. They're all busy taking care of the actual Omega, not the budget Omega.” He growled out quietly, making Droid freeze up.

“What did you-?” Droid was cut off by a quiet knocking on the door.

“What did you do?” John snapped at him.

“I ain't do anything man.” Droid pleaded.

“Yo.. can I come in?” Puffer's voice quietly asked.

John relaxed, nodding at Droid, who helped open the door for the lanky Beta. Puffer stepped inside the room, freezing at the sight as the door shut again.”

“Thanks man. Woah.. John. I totally forgot..” Puffer exclaimed in shock.

“Seems to be a running theme around here.” John said, back still turned to the others.

“Damn man, your boxers are already soaked through! How quickly did this hit you? Lucky we got here then!” Puffer said, sitting next to the nest, John still not turning around.

“Hmmph. You want the truth or the thing i'll tell you to make you guys feel better.” John said, still not facing them.

Puffer and Droid looked at each other, confused.

“What do you mean? Why would you lie?” Droid asked, confused.

“Oh because saying, ‘yeah it only just hit, what a relief!’ Makes you guys still feel like you're helping, whereas if I say ‘I felt it start hitting before we left’, you guys all start feeling sorry for yourselves. It's fine. I'm handling it.” John said shortly, the other two staring in confusion.

“What what?” Puffer said shocked. “You're joking right? People going into heat shouldn't-”

John barked out a hollow sounding laugh. “Shouldn't be moved because it makes them more anxious? Yeah I fucking know. It's a bit late now.”

“At least it's not a bad heat though?” Droid stated hopefully.

“Is it a bad one?” Puffer asked, already dreading the response.

“I have never felt worse. This is top 3 worst experiences of all time. I am in so much pain i want to fucking die.” John says, deadpan, slowly turning around to make eye contact with the other two who pale.

“We need to get the others.” Droid says nervously.

“I said NO.” John snaps, growling out.

“John, you need an Alpha nearby. It will help ease the pain.” Puffer tries to suggest, John just rolling his eyes.

“No. It doesn't fucking matter. They're too busy playing happy families with the perfect Omega who can actually submit, and nest correctly, and fucking smells nice! Why would they waste their time with me!” John says, tears slowly forming in his eyes.

“Because they love you man!” Droid protested.

“If they love me, why did both Matt and Smitty yell at me the day my preheat started, telling me to stop doing the things that were comforting me? Why did you fucking touch my nest Puffer? Why did Grizzy eat all my heat snacks before? Face it. I'm just an afterthought in this pack. Now leave me alone.” John snapped out, raising his voice.

Puffer stepped backwards. “Hey man. I'm sorry about touching your nest. I didn't know, I couldn't smell your heat coming.”

“I know. It's why I'm not as upset at you as the others. The Alphas could smell it. Why didn't they-” John cuts himself off with a sob.

“What?” Droid says, comforting him.

“Why didn't they let me wait a few days at home like they do with Pezzy? Why don't they love me anymore.” John sobbed out, hormones making his brain spiral.

Puffer quietly slipped out the room, going to get backup as Droid tried his best to comfort the other. Droid presses kisses to his forehead, trying to wipe his tears as John just keeps working himself up, weeks of anxiety and self doubt hitting him during one of his weak moments.

“It's gonna be okay John. I promise with all my heart I love and care about you okay? It's all gonna be okay.” Droid whispers, John just hazily nodding along at the younger words. The words do actually help him feel like someone actually cares about him, so he nuzzles back into Droid, who carefully keeps comforting him.

John tries his best to calm down, letting his consciousness slip in and out of reality as he focuses on his mates breathing. He nuzzles up closer to Droid, trying his best to ignore the yucky feeling in his boxers, slick absolutely oozing out.

Puffer walks in, freezing at the sight of the three alphas curled up around Pezzy, before shaking his head. Seems they finished the new nest and got cozy. They all turn their heads towards him, as he blinks before snapping back into helper mode.

“We need help. It's John he-” Puffer gets cut off as Smitty jumps up, immediately worried.

“Is John okay, is he injured?” He frantically asks. “Do I need a first aid kit???”

“Hes-” Puffer gets cut off again.

“He's in heat isn't he?” Matt asks, getting up only slightly slower, more serious than usual, Grizzy and Pezzy looking at him in shock.

Puffer then nods slowly, making all the others turn back to him.

“How do you know?” Pezzy asks, shocked and slightly confused.

“Ehh. Thought I could smell someone in heat on him this morning, but I didn't think it was him..” Matt replied sheepishly, rubbing his neck. “I thought it was rude to ask, and he was covered in soap so I didn't bother.

“He's been in heat since this morning?” Smitty says, trying to rush out the door to be with John, before being stopped by Puffer.

“There's more to it than that.” Puffer says, crossing his arms. He didn't know how to break it to the concerned Alphas that John wanted nothing to do with any of them right now.

“What do you mean?” Grizzy says slowly, staying sat on the edge of the bed.

“He's apparently been like this since before we left.” Puffer reveals, the others all freezing in shock.

“What?” Smitty chokes out, grabbing his chest.

“B-but that means…” Matt trailed off, wringing his hands out.

“You guys made him travel during his heat? That shit fucks you up man. You feel so fucking unsafe its trauma inducing.” Pezzy says, stepping away from the Alphas, feeling slightly betrayed that they would make John do that.

“F-for real?” Grizzy asks, sighing as Puffer just nods.

“We didnt- I didn't…” Smitty protests, trying to think it over, remembering back to before they left.

“I mean, I did notice he was nesting more right before we left, but I thought that was the car trip we were going to be doing, making him anxious.” Matt says quietly, guilt flowing through his veins.

“Oh fuck, I told him off when I saw him trying to relax on the couch. He probably was too shy to ask for cuddles, and wanted some company, but I just got really angry at him.” Smitty says in horror. “I.. Fuck.”

“Yeah so, anyway…He's convinced himself that you guys all knew he was in heat and you still made him travel as a punishment. He's really mentally fucked up right now.” Puffer says quietly, Smitty's anguished scent strong enough, even his Beta nose could pick it up.

“What? But we love him!” Grizzy protests, shrinking down slightly..

“From his point of view, he feels neglected and abandoned. He doesn't want to see any of you.”

“Wait. That doesn't include me does it? Huh? Not even me?” Pezzy asks, looking crestfallen at Puffer.

Puffer shakes his head. “He seemed uhh.. bitter or jealous about how the Alphas always know when somethings up for you, but it never extends to him. I think his Delta is feeling attacked, or like rivalled in on.”

Pezzys eyes welled up with tears. “I.. I didn't know… I..” Pezzy snuffled out.

Soon enough, John zoned back in enough to hear the rumble of feet coming towards the office. He freezes, looking around the room and swearing when he doesn't see Puffer. Fuck. Puffer ratted him out. He doesnt need any fucking help!

John's Delta just purrs, happy to have his mates here. Then his jealous and bitter mind catches up, ruining it for him. Danger!

A sharp stick of fear rushes through the fog muddling his brain though and his eyes fly open as he tries to make sense of why he feels so scared right now.

He hears the door open, someone clearing a path to open it fully. John glances over, fighting the part of himself that wants to run into their arms.

The others are the reason he had to make this stupid nest. He could be safe at home, but instead he's stuck here, with this dad excuse for a nest. They all did this to him because he's a failure. He couldn't even develop properly!

Panic rushes through him at the sight of Matt, Smitty and Grizzy standing in the doorway of the office. He can see Pezzy shyly slinking in, and Puffer standing right at the back.

John growls at the sight of Puffer now. “Traitor.” John snarls out angrily, making the others all turn in confusion and shock at the hostility in his voice.

He's trapped. There's nowhere he can run. He doesn't have the strength to run past them, instead he turns and eyes the window.

Droid watches his line of vision before grabbing his wrist. “Absolutely not John.”

“Nooo,” He groans, getting more distressed. He doesn't want them here. He doesn't need them here! It's not fair!

“No, no. Go away. I don't need you!” he snarls desperately, stressed hands running through his hair at the sight of his alphas. Everyone else is shocked at how worked up he's getting.

“Um guys, let's just calm down for a second.” Droid says, putting a hand out and stopping anyone else entering the room.

“But-” Smitty gets cut off.

“Give him a minute. He might work himself up into an anxious frenzy or something. He's on edge.” Pezzy said quietly.

Droid manages to get John to sit down again, stroking his hair as he starts to calm his breathing. Smitty lets out a quiet jealous whine, making John start growling again.

“Hey. Hey. Calm.” Droid tuts.

“Fine.” He pouts. “What do you guys want?” He asks the group in the doorway.

Smitty blinks in shock. “What do we want? Huh? John. You’re in heat. We want to help!” He says.

John rolls his eyes. “You've done enough. Go away.”

“Why did you build your nest here and not in the bedroom or the guest room?” Matt asks, confused.

John's eyes narrowed. “Well I had to put it out the way so no one would come and steal from it again. Also it was clear by the way you guys didn't invite me to make one when we got here that you didn't care.” He says, trying not to tear up.

He knows he's being irrational again, but it's been building up in the car for the last few days, stewing in silence.

“I'm sorry again I took my stuff back.” Puffer says quietly at the back, making John nod.

“It's fine. It just was food for thought you know. Would you have taken it back if it was Pezzy’s nest?” John snaps out, making Pezzy and Puffer freeze.

“I- well.” Puffer stammers.

They all know the answer is no. Puffer is starting to realise why John is so hung up on it now.

“I know I act like a Beta 95% of the time, but it doesn't mean I don't care about the few more Omega things I indulge in.” John said coldly.

“You're right. I should have asked, even if you weren't in heat. I'm sorry John.” Puffer says, stepping into the room, offering his wrist out.

John scents him, pulling him in for a hug, before letting Puffer pull away. “It's okay. You didn't know I was in pre-heat. Unlike. Other people.” He snaps, shooting a glare at the door.

“I'm gonna go get started on making some soup for you okay? I don't wanna crowd you out.” Puffer says, quickly squeezing out of the room to safety.

“John, do you mind helping a brother out? What exactly happened?” Grizzy asks, pushing his way in front of Matt and Smitty.

John weighs up the list of ‘crimes’ the others have committed recently, putting Grizzy in the position of ‘most acceptable’ so he decides to engage in conversation.

“You. You took my heat snacks…” John pouted, making Grizzy flush awkwardly.

“I… I'm gonna be real. I didn't know they were yours. I'm sorry. I just knew my rut was coming and grabbed what looked good, you feel me?” Grizzy said, sitting next to the nest. “I am sorry though. When we get back home I promise I'll replace everything and label it clearly. Is that acceptable?” he asked quietly, John immediately nodding.

He knew Grizzy didn't like to replace snacks he stole usually, so this was big for him.

John sniffles, smelling the ash and honey scent from the youngest, making grabby hands at him. “Grizzy….”

“Can I come into your nest?” Grizzy asks, John freezing slightly. “Hey. I see you're not sure, I'll just sit here okay?”

John let out a small smile at how gentle he was being, rubbing up against Grizzy’s wrist like a cat. He ignored the hurt scents coming from the doorway, and the confused scent from Pezzy.

Honestly, he has Grizzy now, the others can fuck off for all he cares. (He cares a lot actually).

John lets his gaze drift over the others, torn between trying to fight them, and just breaking down in front of them. He's such a fucking embarrassment, getting this upset over trivial shit.

“Tell them to go away.” John says, turning back to Grizzy.

Smitty's mouth is open with shock, Matt's face confused, but John can’t keep his mouth shut now he's started venting.

“I was feeling so shit right before we left, I just wanted to take a break from my cramps, and Smitty got really mad at me and said that I was being lazy. And at the hotel he said he would leave me behind! I didn't wanna be left in heat alone.. I need someone nearby or I freak out.. but i didn't want to travel either. Then when I tried to calm down in my nest Matt yelled at me too, also saying y’all would leave me! Why couldn't we wait? You guys wait for Pezzy's heat!” John whined, trying to not sob full on. “Is it because I'm a Delta? I'm a failed Omega? I can't submit and you're punishing me? Why do you guys do everything for Pezzy and not me? Why do you guys only pretend to love me…” He trails off, hiding his face in his hands.

“John, when did I yell at you? I don’t remember..” Matt asked, confusion written all over his face, kneeling near the nest.

“Oh sure you don't. You were already annoyed because I asked about my suitcase, then when you banged on my door and threatened to leave me behind!” John snapped.

He was getting worked up now, angry tears dripping down his face. “Why are you lying to me! I'm not crazy. You guys knew what you were doing! I just want to know what I did wrong to deserve it!”

“What you…. did?” Smitty says in pure confusion.

“What?” Matt asks in shock.

“They don't focus on me more than you, John. They love us equally!” Pezzy protested, coming closer to John's nest.

John's Delta was blinded by jealousy, seeing in his mind, his rival was coming closer to destroy his nest.

John growled, Droid noticing quickly.

“PEZZY WATCH OUT!” He yelped, pushing Pezzy back as John's nails sharpened, going in for a slash at Pezzy.

Everyone in the room froze. John had never tried to attack anyone before, his eyes pure gold now, breathing heavily.

Pezzy was helped up by Matt, clinging to him, shaking. “I'm sorry John. I didn't mean to come too close to your nest.” He sniffles out.

“John, you need to calm down.” Smitty said firmly, standing in front of the other two.

“Or what?” John growled out, getting into a crouch, tension filling the room.

You could hear a pin drop.

“I said calm down.” Smitty said, using his Alpha voice, John just staring deadpan at him.

“Did you just try and command me? I'm not a fucking Omega jackass! Holy fucking shit!” John sneered, making Smitty swallow harshly.

“I'm sorry. I shouldn't have tried to do that.” He offers out, John moving back into a sitting position.

“No. You shouldn't have.” John sniffed out, looking away.

“I'm sorry I yelled at you John.” Matt said, cutting the tension, John glancing over at him.

Matt looked guilty. “I was so focused on work and planning that I let my stress get the better of me and I took it out on you. I'm sorry. I think I can vouch for all of us when I say, none of us knew you were in preheat.” He says, looking John in the eyes.

John takes in a shaky breath, unable to stop the tears springing to his eyes, hearing that. It couldn't be true!

Matt had to be lying.

“I don't.. I don't believe you. How can you guys tell so quickly with Pezzy and not with me?” He whined out sadly, curling in on himself. “I just wanted to have my heat at home. I wanted to feel safe.” he says, trying to ignore the tears dripping down his cheeks.

He can't control his emotions anymore, hormones going crazy from his heat. He fucking hates being weak in front of anyone, this is so embarrassing.

“I… John…” Smitty says, walking forward. He moves his hand too quickly near an emotional John's head, growling deeply at him, making Smitty pull away quickly.

He tries to hide the hurt expression on his face, eyes wide in shock. They'd never fought like this before, John actually looking scared of him, made his alpha cry out in distress.

Grizzy pets John on the head, his scent relaxing John as he tries to sort his emotions out in his head. They're all so jumbled.

“John… I swear on Octavia, I didn’t know,” Smitty whispers desperately, big eyes wide, tears in the corners of them.

“How could you not? Surely you of all fucking people could tell my scent had changed!” John snapped. “We've known each other for over ten years! You were are best fucking friend. How couldn't you notice!” He says, watching Smitty curl in on himself.

“I’m sorry. I'm going to give you some more space okay John? Call out if you need me.” Droid says, quickly kissing John's hand, slipping out the room so there's more space.

“What about we move your nest to the bedroom so we can all be there for you?” Pezzy tries to suggest, John is just frowning at him.

Of course he wants my nest gone.

John doesn’t bother replying. He just frowns at the ground, trying to get his emotions under control.

“Wouldn't it be good to have more room?” Matt asks, kneeling next to Smitty, reaching a hand over. John just rolls his eyes, until Matt gets too close again and he starts to growl, lip lifting slightly to expose his teeth.

“Okay okay. John I know you're pissed off, but we gotta use words here man. This growling ain't gonna cut it.” Grizzy said firmly, making John sigh out.

“No. I said I'm fine by myself.” He insists.

“When i'm in heat it really helps having everyone around.” Pezzy tries to add, but this is the straw that breaks John down.

“I don't give a flying fuck what helps you during your heat Pezzy. You could literally get the moon if you asked. Meanwhile I have to deal with a three day fucking car trip making myself nauseous. This is where I feel safest so I'm fucking staying here!” He snarls, snapping his jaws towards Pezzy. “Leave my nest alone Omega.” He spits, voice deepening.

Pezzy’s entire expression changes, body having a reaction to John's voice, before shaking it off, tears springing to his eyes, streaking down his cheeks.

What is he doing? Why is he so angry? He's hurting his pack!

“I…” John pauses, covering his eyes. “Stop. It's all too much. I don't know what to believe. My Delta is going crazy.”

“I'm sorry. I just wanted you to feel like we're in this together man. I'm sorry.” Pezzy whines out, sniffling as a tear drops on the floor.

God. He hurt Pezzy who was only trying to help. What kind of fuck up was he?

“I'm sorry Pezzy. I just look at you, and I just see everything I can't be! You make part of me so fucking jealous, and it's killing me.” John admitted, covering his face up.

“I'm sorry.” Pezzy sobs out.

“It's not your fault.” John says sniffing. “Come here.. can I- can I have a hug… please?”

Pezzy nods, pausing at the edge of his nest, waiting for John to nod back, before jumping into his arms and scenting him rapidly. The two nuzzle up against each other, John ignoring the part of his brain that wants to fight Pezzy. His mate. His mate is safe. It's okay.

“I’m sorry too,” Smitty whimpers now, properly crying as well. “I'm being serious. I had no idea. We would have waited 100% until a safer time with no one in heat if I had known. I promise I didn't know. It's no excuse. I should have checked better. I'm sorry. You deserve a better alpha.” He whines out, wiping his eyes. “What kind of friend am I? What kind of mate am I to not realise?”

John just sniffles, trying to calm himself down, hugging his knees to his chest, as Pezzy surrounds him with his arms. He cautiously looks over at Smitty and Matt.

“P-promise? Promise you didn't know?” John asks wetly, the two both nodding immediately, looking very ashamed.

“I really should have checked more. It had been a while.” Matt says sadly, rubbing his hands together. “Again, I'm sorry. If you don't want me nearby for your heat, I'll respect that.”

John blinked, surprised at Matt’s statement. He knew that would be hellish for the alpha to not check on him, but he was still offering to try and relax John.

“Did-did you wanna come and um, maybe fix up the nest in the big b-bedroom with me?” Pezzy asks shyly, nuzzling his nest. “We could get everyone to help, then all our scents would be together.”

John freezes. But what about his nest here? Is Pezzy suggesting they destroy this one?

“Okay, relax just a bit John,” Grizzy soothes, seeing his hackles rise. “I don't think Pezzy means we're going to trash this nest, I think he is suggesting you can have two. What if we left this one in here for you as a spare, in case you need some space, or some one on one time?”

“Oh….is that… a-are you guys sure?” John says, looking around. “I'm not being selfish?”

Matt scoffs, wiping his eyes. “Of course it's okay man. Turn the whole house into a nest if you want. Anything for you John.” he says honestly.

“Trust me, when my heat comes in a few days, I'll be just as fussy.” Pezzy says, making John relax. He wasn't being a drama queen, it was just hormones.

“I'm sorry again John. I-I still don't recognise your preheat smell. I've spent so many years getting used to your scent sporadically, because we didn't live together for so long, I…I should have realized sooner when it started changing again,” Smitty said voice wobbling a bit. Smitty honestly looked devastated. “Some best friend I am.”

John whines, not liking seeing Smitty and Matt look this upset anymore. He finally takes a deep breath, shedding as much repressed anger and resentment as he can.

He feels vulnerable now, like he's just exposed too many of his fears to everyone, and it makes him feel… uncomfortable. He's sick of fighting now. He just wants to be taken care of by his pack, and he's brave enough to admit that now. He looks at Grizzy, Pezzy and then over at Matt and Smitty before offering a hand towards both of them, an invitation to come closer.

They both look at each other in shock, before moving to kneel outside his nest, each gently grabbing one of his hands with their own.

“And you're being serious? You guys had no idea?” John asks them one last time, just needing to hear it again as reassurance.

“I had no idea…And i feel like a failure of an alpha to admit that I didn't know when an Omega or a Delta went into heat,” Smitty says, looking John in the eye, so John could see the truth reflected in those orbs. “I wouldn’t do that to anyone, let alone you John. I'm so fucking sorry I made you travel in heat.”

“We're sorry John.” Matt chimes in, stroking his finger over John's palm. “I should have checked in on you better when I saw you nesting. That's always a key sign for you. Just please try and be honest with us. I don't speak for Smitty or Grizzy but I'm fucking stupid remember?”

John lets out a little giggle at Matt's self deprecation, Grizzy quick to chime in.

“Gonna be real man, I think we all a little stupid here. It's okay though. We live and we learn, and no one's fucking dead or anything.” he says, making the others smile.

Smitty nervously holds his arms open, and John has never wanted to hug him more in his entire life.

John launches himself into Smitty’s open arms, the younger grunting at the impact, before making soothing humming noises at him to show his appreciation for his Omega.

“Weirdo. Look at how attached you are,” John chides, kissing his forehead. Warm arms wrap around his body, giving him the comfort he so desperately needed for so long now, easing the ache that’s hollowed out his chest.

Grizzy barrels into them next, kissing anywhere and everywhere he can reach on both of them until John hiccups with the sudden swell of happiness in his chest.

“Come on,” Matt kisses him on the lips. “You lowkey smell like you’re ready to be fucking bred to next year. Let's get you a good nest before this all gets worse and we start fighting each other to take care of you.”

John snickers heavily. “Bread,” He giggles.

“Let's get this bread gamers…” Pezzy mumbles, slowly walking out the room to get the others.

John sighs into his alpha’s chests, relieved that things are okay now. He's ashamed over his behaviour, but he's glad it's all out in the open now. He can get the care he needs, and he doesn't have to hide. They love him.

“Can someone.. carry me there.. please..” John asks shyly, brain more foggy already, though it feels different this time.

“I got this y'all. Make way okay.” Grizzy giggles, scooping up the older man, John nuzzling into his chest.

He's carried downstairs to the master bedroom, Matt darting in front to place John's special blanket on the nest first, making John's heart soar seeing it in the center.

“It's… it's already perfect.” He whispers, getting placed into the center, Smitty immediately coming up and being the big spoon in a cuddle, nibbling on his neck.

“Now. Let us take care of you okay? Are you willing to do that?” Smitty asks, more confident now.

John blushes at the tone of his voice, eyeing Matt and Grizzy who are smiling at him. “Y-yeah. Okay.. Alpha.”

Smitty groaned at that, kissing John on the neck. “Dawg, you can not say that shit to me, I nearly bond-marked you on the spot.”

John snickered. “Ever the quick shot ey Smitty?”

Matt guffawed at that, turning away from Smittys glare at him.

“I wouldn't mind either way.” John said, in a more light voice.

“Next time.” Smitty promised, Matt coming up to nuzzle into John's chest. “Gotta do it at home okay?”

“Sure man…” John replied, scent drunk already.

“Alright move over. Soup is in the fridge for later. It's cuddle time.” Pezzy cheered, jumping into the nest.

John let out a huff, secretly smiling. “Okay. Everyone in. I'll allow it.”

As his pack all settled in around him, he felt his cramps already begin to ease up. He knew it was only the start, but he already felt better, comforted by having his pack around and being surrounded by their scents and love.

“Thanks guys. I love you.” He said quietly.

Grizzy let out a fake snore, making the others laugh.

“Fuck you man last time I pretend to care.” John snorted, snuggling into everyone's arms.

“My fault.” Grizzy snickered, making the others all smile.