Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“It's just pizza dad. I don’t know what you’re so worried about” Dom had laughed over the phone. Everyone had sang him Happy birthday earlier. It was the usual birthday party. Friends with family, but they had run low on food. He offered to go get it because he was starting to feel overwhelmed.

He loved his family. They were great, but sometimes just a bit too much. Dad had said someone else would go, that they could have it delivered to them, but he had insisted.

“I’ll be back in thirty to forty minutes” he assured before leaving.

That had been the last thing Dom said in person. The last phone call was him talking about pizza.

Dom had just turned twenty-five and just disappeared.

He had said all that three days ago.

Chapter Text

“Hot bread, no water, just MEAAAAAT” Dom giggled.  He stepped out of the shop. Three boxes of pizza in his arms. They were hot and warmed his fingers. They smelled divine.

He walked past the door, the destination was towards his car, but something caught his eye in the alley beside the shop. It was odd that the backdoor was at the side instead of behind. He walked into the alley.

“Hey” Dom called.

There was a person squatting on the ground. Trying to fasten stuff together. He didn’t know what that was.

The person stopped and looked up at him.

“Are you okay?” he tilted the boxes to the side.

“Yeah” it was a girl. “Just trying to fasten my canoe”.

That was weird. “Do you need help?”

“That’d be great thank you” she stood up and stepped back.

“Could you-yeah, thank you” she took the boxes without him asking.

He bent down and was able to fasten it easily. What was a canoe doing here in the alley?

“Could you help me pull it along?”

It wasn’t a problem. “Where’s your car?” She pointed up ahead to where a nondescript van was. He pulled it along quite easy.

The back was already open. She put the boxes by the side so she’d get in and pull the other end.

“There” it was finally in.

“Thank you” she said with gratitude.

He stepped back and she stepped down. He waited patiently for the boxes to be handed back to him. He reached out to take it and their fingers touched. Her hands were cold for just that second they touched. He wasn’t bothered. Didn’t really care at all.

She gasped as if remembering herself once he stepped back again. Intentions to leave. “Have a nice night” He said with a parting smile.

“I'm sure I will. Enjoy your birthday”.

Dom turned to leave. He took a step and it was as if his entire body locked up. Pain from nowhere exploded behind his head. All the way from his nape to the top of his head. It was a struggle to breathe. His fingers clutched the boxes as he dropped to his knees on the alley ground.

He wheezed.

His hair was grabbed and that was where it stopped. He didn’t remember anything else because he was pulled in by the darkness.

.

.

.

Dom gasped awake. His body shooting up abruptly, well at least trying to, but a pained moan forced him back down. Both hands went to both sides of his head, failing to soothe how bad it was pounding. He felt like his brain was going to explode inside his skull. Any sudden movements, his head would fall off, he was sure of it. But he had to move. The familiar pain from too long immobility was apparent in his chest and stomach. He had been laying down for too long.

He cried.

“Oh!” a voice exclaimed. “You’re awake”.

The footsteps were too loud and he could feel the vibrations right on the middle of his forehead. Like it was bouncing off. His face was cradled and he opened his eyes as his face was held. Two palms pressing on both corners of his eyes, fingers in his hair, scratching and prodding lightly.

His vision swam as one hand went to the back of his head, causing him to flinch and moan. It felt weird.

“Take it easy. You’re okay” the voice comforted.

He’d do just that. What else would he do?

“One or two?”

“Hmm?” he whimpered.

There was the sound of rattling close to his ear which made him jerk. He squinted his eyes to see it was a bottle. Pills maybe? Painkillers? He didn’t need two. He needed the whole bottle.

The cap was twisted off and two pills were deposited on his palm. He swallowed it as quickly as he could. Which turned out to be a mistake. His throat was dry, so the pills kind of just stuck to his tongue and the roof of his mouth when he swallowed.

“Have some water” something pressed against his lip. Plastic. A straw?

His lips closed around it, and a hand guided his chin. Angling his head in a way up. “Slowly. We don’t want you throwing up like last time”.

He drank slow. Only option because he really couldn’t make sense of anything. Drinking was soothing slightly. His throat hurt and there was this overwhelming bitter and medicinal taste. Was it just the painkillers? It felt like there were tiny sores in his trachea as water went down.

“Just like that. Good boy”.

He blinked twice. Black hair he had seen when he looked in front of him, so he had thought automatically mum. Who else would take care of him in a state like this. But as he drank and his vision began to clear up, who sat before him with a red solo cup wasn’t his mum.

He stopped drinking immediately. The first mistake had been taking pills he didn’t know from a stranger. And he didn’t stop there, he drank what he thought was water.

“Are you done?” she asked calmly. Normal.

He couldn’t answer, so he settled for nodding. Also a mistake with how his head was throbbing. He couldn’t hide his groan.

She dropped the cup on the floor. “For a second I thought I had lost you, but you proved you’re a fighter. Thirty minutes after you were awake and trying to get out. Had to use the sedatives, but then again you woke up. You drink right? Of course you do so that makes sense”.

What was happening?

“So are you hungry?” she asked softly. Concerned.

“I just-I want to sit” his voice cracked. He placed a hand on his throat. Why did it hurt so bad?

“Okay. We’ll sit and then have some of your pizza” she stood and walked to the armrest that he rested his head on. She supported him by the shoulders till he was upright. That alleviated his pain a bit.

Hold on. Pizza?

The back of his head throbbed like he was struck with a tiny pin.

She took the cup away and she was gone from his sight. He would have turned if he could. “I’d have given you soup but you know, it’s been three days. You need actual food and water. I was so close to forcing it down your throat but thank goodness you woke up” He heard the beeps from behind. She was heating something up. She had said pizza.

She had said three days.

She came back to his side.

Her breath was heavy. Like it had picked up. Looking at her through his peripheral there was this nervous excitement about her. She seemed giddy.

“One pepperoni, one sausage and finally chicken. You and your chain restaurants” she chuckled. “Would have given you soup, but wouldn’t want you throwing up again”.

Again?

“Go on. Eat” she urged him, but was still patient since he really couldn’t make much sense of everything. He was all out of sorts.

“Or...do you want me to feed you?” she asked with longing and it freaked him out.

“I can. Don’t worry” not like he couldn’t move his hands. The problem was his head. The dizziness and the immense discomfort. He took a bite of the pizza and after the first swallow, he began to register that he was hungry. He took the second bite and she held both his wrists.

“You have to be slow Dominik or you’ll choke, or worse, make yourself sick” she said sagely.

Just who was this woman and how did she know his name? He was certain he had never seen her before, but all she had said. His pizza, chain restaurants and three days.

He stretched his lips in acknowledgment and took her advice. He ate slower and she watched him the entire time. It was unsettling. Very uncomfortable. She just watched the entire thing and he felt like he was naked underneath a microscope.

He managed three more slices and she gave him another cup of water. Cooler than the last, which he was able to finish.

“Pain meds working? I gave you the strong kind” she shared.

They were both still on the couch. Her body angled towards him and his towards the TV. He should have been hesitant in eating, for fear that he could be poisoned or drugged. He was really slow. And now he was tired.

The hot hand on his knee made him jerk in surprise and she took her hand off him in response. He looked at her dumbstruck because, what the fuck?

“Sorry” now she had the audacity to be bashful. “I should have asked. It’s just so surreal having you here-like you’re actually in front of me and I can’t believe it!” she said with uncontainable excitement.

“Wh-I don’t-“

She breathed out. “Lost my cool for a while” she apologised. “Do you want to make use of the bathroom? I did clean and change you the past days” how she was so shameless saying that, how he didn’t remember any of what she was saying. There was a big problem.

“...a real shower is needed. Don’t you think?”

He nodded, completely obtuse.

She tried to touch him again, but he raised his hand stopping her. He didn’t want her touching him. “I can do it”.

She looked at him amused.

He wondered what was so funny.

She smirked. “You can’t even walk”.

Best to try now. His head didn’t feel all that huge and mighty anymore so he forced his body to move. He stood on shaky legs and was already breaking a sweat. Though his hands supported his weight by holding the couch, he knew how this was going to end. He was going to fall.

The strong hand wrapped round his middle and steadied him.

This was a very embarrassing position.

“Do you need help?” her body was hot against his back as was her breath against his cheek.

“Yes” contrary to popular belief, he could pick his own battles.

She steadied him and he was completely mortified that he had to lean on someone he didn’t know for balance. It would be a long trek to the bathroom. Well that was what he thought before his feet left the ground.

He gasped, completely astonished.

She gave him this smug look in reply as she moved them from the living area to the stairs? He hadn’t thought about where exactly he was and what exactly was he wearing? Looking down at himself, these weren’t his clothes. He hissed as he felt that pain at the back of his head. Like he had been pierced with a huge pin.

The stair creaked as she stepped on it. “Feels magical doesn’t it? Like a marriage walk across the threshold for the first time".

He remained quiet because he had already decided. One, he was in trouble. Two, this was a crazy person.

They stopped in front of a door on the second floor and she dropped him gently. “Okay. We’re here” she pushed the door open to reveal a modern bathroom. The shower cabinet took the entire left side. Two shower heads on both ends. Built for two people. Double sinks on the opposite side, two mirrors. There was no toilet in here. Where the toilet should have been there was a square bathtub connected to the wall.

“Your change of clothes are in the hamper over there” she informed him.

He couldn’t even look over his shoulder. Maybe now that they were in the bathroom, it was a bit cooler, but the chill that made him shiver wasn’t because of the change of location.

“Okay” he breathed out, but didn’t move.

She still stood behind him. Why was she still here?

He cleared his throat.

“Oh, sorry. Do you want to poop?” she asked cheerily.

“No. I want to shower and you can’t be in here” He stressed. He wouldn’t just take his clothes off in front of a stranger. And shower. Still naked.

“Oh. Yeah” she said in realisation. “There’s a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, body scrub. Just whatever you might need, it’s in that little crook in the wall” she gestured to the wide cabinet.

He nodded. By coincidence she just happened to have all that with a change of clothes.

She stepped out and the door closed with a click.

Now that he was alone he felt he could breathe, and maybe sit on the floor because he was exhausted, the door opened and startled him so bad, making him jump.

“Oh Dom, sorry. Due to your head, I recommend you don’t put your head directly under the shower” and she closed the door again. Now that he was alone, he slowly lowered himself to the floor till he was seated. The white tiled floor wasn’t wet or sticky, thank goodness.

What exactly was he involved in?

He did take a shower. That comment of being changed and cleaned for three days got to him. He washed up and brushed his teeth. Looking at his reflection he didn’t look any different, but the back of his head felt odd. Or maybe it was paranoia. One part felt higher than the other.

When he looked in the hamper, there was a change of clothes. A simple polo, shorts and undergarments all in his size. He’d just comfort himself with the thought that it could be a coincidence.

He yelped when he opened the door to see her standing there. She grabbed him by his shirt because it actually made him lose his balance. She still looked smug at that.

“Are you ready for bed?”

Okay. Bedtime. Maybe after he slept all this would make sense in the morning. The pills were starting to kick in. He let her lead. Her leading was meant to be she’d walk and he’d follow, but she guided him still holding his shirt. They didn’t walk far though. The room was on the same floor. She opened the door and let go.

A standard room. A bed, wardrobe and a dresser. A ceiling fan. That was it.

“Where do I sleep?” He asked once he was done surveying. Unlike the bathroom this was...

“Here of course” she giggled. Like he had said something funny.

“And where do you sleep?”

“Here. With you” she answered without pause.

This time the door banged shut. He didn’t know if it was wind or she had been the one to do it, but it jarred him so bad that he fell on his butt, on the bed.

The familiar click of a door locking shut had him gulping. He kept repeating a mantra in his head to be calm. That was the only thing keeping him from freaking out right now and take off running. She stood in front of him, but there was some distance between them.

“I understand your concerns Dom. Getting in bed with an Alpha-“

“Eh?” He gasped. His heart dropped to his abdomen and he wanted to hurl.

“But you should know that I am not a rapist” she said earnestly. “I prefer my partners willing. Begging if I’m being honest” she said suggestively. “Nothing bad is going to happen”.

“That’s going to make it so much better” He said under his breath and he winced. He couldn’t stop himself. He closed his eyes, just waiting for something to happen, but nothing did. He heard the shuffling of feet and he cracked his eye open. She wasn’t in front of him, but in front of the wardrobe. He was just in time to see her lower her pants. He turned away quickly with a hiss.

His head. He forgot about that. He laid down, massaging his temple. The bed was soft, but still firm. Her footsteps were returning. He prayed to God that she wasn’t naked.

She sat and he saw her upper half was in a sports bra, lower half panties. He kept his eyes on the ceiling fan.

“I honestly can’t believe you’re here” she said with so much emotion. Like it was a dream.

He agreed with her. He couldn’t too.

“I just knew you’d take the left side. Also, you should lay on your side instead of your back. Your head should still be a bit swollen”.

He didn’t react. Now why would his head be swollen?

She gave off the air of contentment and here he was petrified. Who was this woman? Where was he? What had happened? He knew she wasn’t asleep. Though his eyes were up the entire time before he turned his back towards her, he could feel that stare. So focused, so unshaken, like a hunter about to kill its prey.

That made goose bumps appear all over his arms and his nape. Was that what he was? Prey?

He looked at his right shoulder since he really couldn’t look over it because of fear. He exhaled. It’d all make sense in the morning. He could just be having a very realistic nightmare.

That was plausible.

He released a breath. He was tired. The combination of the fan and mattress was really overpowering. Before he knew it, he was passed out.

♡♡♡♡♡

The next morning, he woke up to the scent of something frying. Something crispy. He’d also woken up on his stomach instead of his side. Looking to the right, there was no one there, but the heat from the right told him that someone had been there. Also the scent of whatever products and sweat.

He didn’t know if it was a dream or just recollections from last night, but there were times he saw her above him. Sometimes standing, sometimes over his lap, sometimes he’d just be there and she’d be moving around. Was she prowling? He didn’t follow her advice and had put his face directly under the shower. Though he almost fell, it was an eye opener. The pizza, the past three days, the inexplicable pictures of her. Something wasn’t right.

He sat up. This wasn’t a dream. He wasn’t in his room and he still had on unfamiliar clothes. He needed to confront this. He didn’t care how scared he was, this couldn’t go on. But first, he turned on his back. The back of his head was just a dull throb. Wasn’t that uncomfortable.

He slipped his hands into his shorts and all the way down. There was still a chance that that could have really happened instead of just a dream.

There was nothing. He pulled his hand out to examine his fingers. Nothing different. She said she wasn’t a rapist.

He stood up. He didn’t waver or lose his balance. That was when he noticed the door. He’d found the toilet.

As he descended he could hear sizzling. It smelt like bacon.

The last step creaked and she looked over her shoulder. She was wearing bottoms, thankfully. It matched the sports bra. A grey colour. Had she gone out for a run?

“Good morning!” she grinned, saying those words with so much cheer.

“Uh-hi...”

“You’re going to love breakfast. I made you pancakes, scrambled eggs, I don’t know the type of bacon you like. Is turkey bacon alright with you?”

She had already served it and placed it on the island for him to see. The pancakes had a dimpled smiley face.

Okay.

She turned back to the stove to turn the pan off. He could see there was something wrapped. It was opened now and she picked a huge knife up and began to slice meant off the bone effortlessly

He took a step back, reconsidering just a bit. If he died, that’d just be the end. No one would know and he doubted this woman actually had a conscience where she’d actually feel remorse and be haunted by what she’d think was his ghost.

“Concerning yesterday, I wanted to ask, how long have I been here?” He blurted out.

“Three days” she answered, unaffected, didn’t turn around.

Three days. So he was considered missing. People would be looking for him. He wouldn’t try to set someone off who had a...was that a cleaver?

He breathed out. “So are you going to let me go or what?”

She laughed. “I can’t let you out. There’s a bear on the loose. Too many traps and you could get caught in one”.

So she was a hunter.

“Look, I didn’t get a lot from you last night. Who even are you-“

She turned around. Slowly. Knife still in her hand and a little red on her fingers. “You don’t know me?” she asked with an array of emotions he really couldn’t place. Fond? And sad maybe. She sort of lowered her eyes and shook her head.

She raised both her arms, then flexed. Really reminiscent to what he did...at the gym. He looked at her perplexed. Petrified. Did she know him?

Her other hand dipped into her shorts and she brought out a phone. He tried not to show excitement that there was a phone close to him. Now he was asking himself where his phone was.

She showed him a picture that did make him pause. Because it was of him. Flexing in the mirror at his dad’s gym. He was younger then. Shorter hair. Still had his baby fat. He was twenty-two there. Maybe. And the girl sitting on the bench, taking a picture was blonde, no tattoos. Absolutely beaming.

He looked back up at her, then back to the picture.

“Is that you?”

“You really don’t remember me?” she teased, but there was something wistful in there.

He didn’t answer.

“Hey”.

She was slated to use the bench press. There were a lot here, but she was slated for this. She always used this one. The one at the very end on the left. Directly in front of the AC so no one would be able to know if she smelt bad.

She looked up at the person who called her to her. She didn’t know who he was. There weren’t a lot of people here yet so it wasn’t for this spot. “Yes?” she asked.

“Need a spot?”

“No thanks” she had been lifting for a very long time. She had lifted this exact weight before. She could handle it. She didn’t need someone watching her.

The guy stepped back but didn’t leave.

She took a deep breath and her hands tightened round the bar before she puled it down. She was able to lift just three times before her arms began to shake. She couldn’t even speak because it was down now, over her, and it could crush her.

“Urk-“ where was that spot?

“And there we go” the guy helped her in pushing it up, back to where it should be stationed. She sat up immediately. Her cheeks burned with embarrassment so she didn’t look up. She had done this many times before. He had been the one to throw her game off with his.. she glanced briefly at his crotch, then looked down at her knees.

She could have died.

“Thanks” she mumbled. She really did need one. Now she wanted to be left alone.

“Seemed like you needed one. Nothing to be embarrassed about” he smiled.

She looked up at him. He didn’t seem to be mocking or smug about it.

“I lift more than this. I don’t know what happened” now she was pouting.

“I’m Dom. I work here. So you don’t think I’m a weirdo or something” He said quickly.

“I’m Rhea” she introduced herself with a laugh.

“My name is Rhea” she told him and turned her phone screen off.

“Oh!” his lost expression told her he didn’t remember. “You dyed your hair and got tattoos” He stated. Like that was important.

“Yeah. Your hair got longer and you got more tats” she gestured towards him, eyeing him up and down appreciatively.

So this girl, Rhea knew him, well knew what his name was. But it still didn’t explain why he was here.

“You kidnapped me” He said breathy. His heart rate had started to pick up.

“That is a strong word. But-“

“It’s been three days! So they’re looking for me. Just let me out!” He cried.

“Yes, but no” she smiled, pleased.

“What-what are-“ he felt faint.

“Just eat your breakfast Dom” she cut him off.

“I-I don’t want to eat anything. You fucking-“

He saw her hands tighten on the handle of the knife. The veins in her hand bulged as her muscle taut.

She was going to kill him. He knew it.

She closed her eyes and exhaled. Her lips stretched and cheeks raised, but she wasn’t happy. She wasn’t smiling.

“Eat your breakfast and let’s have a good time, alright” and she turned back around, going back to the kitchen.

Dom still stood there. Trying to accept that everything that had happened had really happened. That it was real and he had been kidnapped. He looked at the back of her head, then the knife.

“I should really advise that it’d be very unwise to do what you’re thinking” like she could just tell he was staring. “Eat your breakfast” she said with authority.

Dom swallowed and walked with wobbly legs to the island. He took the plate.

“Coffee or juice?”

“Coffee” He said submissively.

It was just the first day he was completely awake. He’d take his L today. There was more days. He had tomorrow. There was a phone and he’d get that. That was his out. He just had to find out who this Rhea woman was.

She placed the steaming mug beside his plate with a smile. “Enjoy”.

He nodded.

Tomorrow was another day.

Chapter Text

He had to get out of here. Staying here with this woman, this Rhea was getting to him. It was making him antsy. This was the third day. Technically he’d been here longer, but not lucid. He was going to go crazy. She had blatantly told him that he wasn’t going anywhere. Not with actual words. Then was using some passive aggressive behaviour on him. The whole thing with the knife. She was unstable.

“Where did your mind wander off to?” Rhea asked casually. The two of them were at the table. They were meant to be having breakfast, but just looking at the grilled sausage made him want to vomit.

He looked back to her. “I want to get out of here. You have to let me out!” He pleaded.

“No” Rhea said candid.

“Look, you know it’s physically impossible to just keep me here-“

Rhea giggled like he’d said a joke. Like he said something very funny. The giggle slowly graduated to a full-blown laugh.

“You think you can take me?” she asked nonchalant. She placed a hand on her cheek, even tilted her head to the side as she smiled lazily. She didn’t see him as a threat. The only reason that he was here, that she had gotten him here was because she had drugged him. She had said so herself.

He could take her. So what if her biceps looked bigger. He was certain he could take her. He was taller so he was sure he weighed more. If he could hold her down, he’d be able to knock her out. Then he’d be able to search for the key to open the door. The windows were barred up with iron, so that was out of the question.

He didn’t answer. He wasn’t really sure what her intentions were. He wouldn’t just conclude. She could just be some serial killer. A very weird one just starting out.

“Go ahead. Do it” she dared him. She stretched a bit over the table and presented her cheek.

He could do it.

“Limited time offer. You can do it. I won’t get back at you or anything. Don’t be scared” she tucked her bangs behind both ears.

She had dropped the opportunity before him. All he had to do was just knock her out. He could just do it. He should do it. But for some reason he hesitant. He was hesitating for some reason. His conscience. To be in a position where he felt he had to knock someone out, or to be in a position where he’d feel he’d have to take a life if it came down to it.

He didn’t want to have to kill someone or knock someone out. He’d never been in that position before. He closed his eyes. He’d have to shift that to his last option.

Rhea sat back in her chair. “Eat your breakfast”.

“I won’t tell anyone” He promised.

Rhea giggled again. “Are you dumb or something?”

“What?” Dom asked perplexed.

“Do you have a processing disorder or something? What don’t you understand in the words no and I’m not letting you out?” she folded her arms. She didn’t have that playful smile anymore. She looked annoyed.

She didn’t have a knife in hand right now. He doubted she could actually use what was on the table to hurt him.

“What do you want?” He asked throaty.

“It must really eat you up inside, huh?” Rhea smirked.

“Huh?’ he asked perturbed.

“This situation-“

“Anyone would be antsy in a situation like this!” He argued. “You kidnapped me and you don’t see this as wrong?! What exactly is wrong with you?!” He knew he was losing his cool, but he didn’t care. What exactly was this? What was she playing at?

“But you, it eats you up on a whole other level” she grinned like a shark.

“What are...what?” He asked breathless.

“I know you Dom. I’ve known you for years. This situation makes you so angry in a way that isn’t what you’re trying to portray” she said lowly.

Dom was silent and Rhea went on.

“To not know that the entire time I was always there and you were just oblivious. To be so carefree and not know that someone was watching your whole move the entire time” she snickered. “It must suck for you having no control over this situation, being powerless. Not being in control. That’s what eats you up, not actually being here with me” she shared optimistic. Whimsical.

Dom groaned. “You are fucking crazy”.

“About you” she replied playfully.

“What do you want?” He asked through gritted teeth, trying to keep calm. Rhea had been there for years. That was obvious with the picture she showed him yesterday. But she had been watching him. Always been there. She’d been following him.

Rhea only smiled.

“Sex? Is that it? Is that what you want?!” He demanded.

She still had this cool and unbothered air around her. Also an expression to match.

“Fine” Dom pushed his chair back and stood up. He was pulling his shirt up.

“As tempting as that is, when we do eventually make love, it won’t be like this. I’m done with breakfast” she cleaned her lips with a napkin and stood up. She took her plate with her to the sink.

Dom wasn’t giving up.

“Wait!” He cried. She stood in front of the sink, wanting to clean up now. She didn’t turn to face him, but he knew she was listening. Her head was sort of tilted, so an indication that she had her ear towards him.

“How about a game?” He offered.

Rhea dropped her plate in the sink with a loud clink. “What game?” she looked over her shoulder.

She was interested. Great.

“A normal game” his heart was beating fast, making his words come out breathy. “Like question and answer. I ask a question, you answer and if I get it right, you let me out”.

Rhea hummed. Moving her head left to right as she began to do the dishes. He was thinking whether he should sweeten the pot.

“What about me? What do I get? You’re the only one benefiting” she said in singsong.

“You get what you want” He said determined.

He wasn’t dreaming when he saw Rhea vibrate. Her shoulders actually shook. In excitement?

“No take backs?” she asked unsure.

“You have my word” his voice trembled, but it was for his freedom. He had to take a risk.

“What sort of questions?” She turned around, cleaning her hand with a napkin.

“Seeing as you like to profile I’ll do the same. I’ll ask questions about you, and you answer if I’m right or wrong. I get it right, you let me out”.

“Just one question or two out of three?” she leaned against the sink, her hands on the edge, smirking at him.

“Even if it’s one question. You answer truthfully and let me out”.

“You have a deal” she said genuine. She didn’t even take time to think about it. What did she want? Now he wasn’t so sure about it.

“Do we start now?”

Though he nodded, he wouldn’t stop worrying his lips.

♡♡♡♡♡

“Go on” Rhea was sat on the couch, sitting with spread legs as she stared at him. He stood before her, feeling awkward now.

“You like to profile, so you might know a lot about the justice system. So-so, like a paraplegal? That’s what you are? An intern?”

Rhea scratched her scalp, making a show of thinking. “It’s paralegal Dom” she cooed like he was a child. “And no”.

He closed his eyes and looked up at the ceiling. “Okay, a judge?” he didn’t feel strong about that guess.

“Uh-huh” she shook her head.

“A bouncer” He just said it because of her physique. It was an obvious guess.

She just gave him this pout and crossed her legs. “Not even close”.

He really was failing at this, and it wasn’t fair. He hadn’t been following her around, she had. So there was this unfair advantage.

“Do you still have something or are you done guessing?” she asked smug.

He exhaled tiredly. What else was he going to say? He didn’t know.

Rhea uncrossed her legs so she could bring them up, curl them underneath herself as she placed her elbow on the armrest, watching him with those wide blown pupils. It was unnerving.

“You’re English” He stated.

“No love” she said in a high-pitched enunciated voice.

“Okay, you were born here” He was close to complaining.

“No” she grinned.

Dom buried his face in his palms. He was done. He had nothing else to give.

“Want a hint?” she teased.

Dom stood straight. He rolled his shoulders.

“You know you can just bail out. You don’t have to. You don’t get to go out, but still...”

Dom ignored her. With sheer spite, he ripped his shirt off. Yes he had on underwear today. He wouldn’t ask how she knew his exact size, she already knew for his clothes.

It enraged him seeing how she was enjoying this. Seeing her lick her canines in a very lewd and perverse way. She looked like a teen girl reading something she wasn’t meant to with that face. He’d punch himself if she got a nosebleed.

“Go on” she said slowly. Her fingers rubbing slow circles on her exposed thigh. It fascinated him in that very wrong way that you just couldn’t look away.

It was just wrong.

He exhaled and looked to the side. He had a sour look, biting his lip as he pulled his shorts down. He did have bottoms on, but that wasn’t protection. He could have just declined. While he felt sure about this, he had no idea. He was just desperate and wanted to take a risk. And now there was Rhea looking at him like she was drunk. High.

“Still going?” she challenged.

He closed his eyes and removed the hook from the back and his bosoms became free.

“Fuck!” Rhea pushed out of the chair and it caused Dom to step back in trepidation. Like she was going to come for him.

She only looked at him sheepish. Like she had done something so silly. She wasn’t some dog that he was going to tell her to stay. He was frightened and considered calling this off. But if he did, he wouldn’t have her trust. He needed her to trust him if he was ever going to come out of this. She agreed to this, didn’t she?  But what if she only agreed because she knew he was going to lose.

No. She couldn’t see the future.

“Sorry” she said into her palm.

Her agreeing told him everything he needed to know. She was the typical Alpha. He was an Omega and as backwards and insulting as it sounded, he wasn’t above using his body for his own gain. If using sex would be his leverage, so be it. Wouldn't be the first time.

He heard her breath pick up as the article of clothing dropped to his feet. She looked like an hungry animal.

All that was left were his bottoms and she was staring at his lower half like she was hypnotised. And was she drooling?

She cleaned the corner of her lips and her chin.

Like ripping off a bandage. He’d already come this far. He closed his eyes and just did it. He swallowed the shame. He swallowed the embarrassment and how undignified this was, but he had to get out.

Rhea gasped in that punched out way, but she didn’t move. He couldn’t look up. He couldn’t look at her. He brought his hands in front of himself to cover up. His eyes were moving all over the room, he couldn’t focus on just one thing. He had never been in a situation like this with past sexual partners. And now...murder wouldn’t be the thing that killed him.

Rhea bit her lip and just stared at him in wonder like she’d never seen a naked Omega before.

“You look so beautiful” she said truthfully.

He just wanted to get dressed, eat the breakfast he hadn’t and forget this was happening, but that desperate voice was telling him to just bear it a little more.

Then Rhea stood and he stopped listening to that voice.

“No. No!” He stepped back quickly. One hand now coming to cover his chest. “Stop!”

She just had this stupid maniacal grin. She looked like she wanted to touch him and kept advancing towards him. “Are you scared? I’m not going to do anything-“

“Yeah. You’re not. I never said that you were going to touch”.

And with that Rhea stopped.

Thank goodness.

His vision swam. His lungs were slowing down, or speeding up. His chest was just heaving and Rhea’s eyes caught that. She stepped back.

Who knew sociopaths stuck to their words.

“Yeah. I didn’t, and neither did you” she said smarmy.

Dom was relieved.

She didn’t stop staring though. Now that it was over he could get dressed.

“Can you excuse me?” He didn’t take a step forward because she was in his path.

“You’re smarter than they give you credit for’ she said it like she was giving a compliment and she stepped away.

He dropped to his knees and though it was hard, he tried to get dressed as best as he could. Part of his attention was on her though, since she hadn’t sat down. And she seemed to be rounding him. Like she wanted to attack him and he just sort of cowered there. He couldn’t look up.

“I want breakfast now” He said obsequious.

She didn’t answer right away. He could still feel her stare on his entire being and he just wanted it to stop.

“Okay” her voice sounded so weird. Different.

She walked away to the open kitchen, finally giving him breathing space. He might have miscalculated but he would think about this another time. He had to stand to get his bottoms on. What was a little humiliation just to keep himself alive?

He looked at the door. A keyhole, a latch, a bolt. All that was missing was a keypad.

Every second spent here was a second he could use in getting to know Rhea more. Every second he’d learn just how he’d get out of here. She said it herself. People often underestimated him and seemed she did too. And would continue to if he continued to be some helpless limbo.

He hoped.

He was completely dressed.

“Food is ready” Rhea called.

Chapter Text

It was complicated. He admitted he might have moved too fast with Rhea. He didn’t need to be reminded of what happened recently and for now, he’d love to forget. So he wasn’t going to think about it. He took a day to stop with the attempts after that humiliation. He just wanted to get a read on her. So he took a whole day to understand this routine.

He’d wake up alone, he had no idea of the time. The scent of food always woke him up. He’d have breakfast before he cleaned up. Rhea would make small talk before he finished. She’d clean up and he’d be in the bathroom at that time. Always had to be fast because Rhea didn’t understand the concept of knocking. And she had seen him naked already so that wouldn’t stop her.

It did make him wonder what had happened when he was unconscious. Things like hygiene and going to the bathroom. He wanted to ask but something told him he didn’t want to know.

After he used the bathroom he’d go back to the room. Rhea wouldn’t be there and since he didn’t want her coming to meet him and think something else, he’d go downstairs. She’d come downstairs later on. He felt the need to snoop, but what if he got caught?

Maybe another day to actually search around the house...but Rhea never left. Maybe when he was unconscious, but these past four days, she hadn’t gone anywhere. So that meant they had all they needed. Must have had time to stock up. A lot of time, he thought to himself dryly.

So Rhea didn’t go out. She didn’t need to go anywhere and when he was down, watching the moving pictures on the TV and she’d come sit by him and try to make small talk. For example, the movie selections perfectly tailored for him. His favourite movies and sitcoms.

She had all the seasons of The Simpsons and the entire franchise of Nightmare on Elm Street. He didn’t talk much. He didn’t talk at all because all the words that came out of her mouth just left him stunned. In a bad way. Who exactly was this psycho? How did she know him to this extent? Clothes size, movie selection, where he’d be. It didn’t make sense. It wasn’t normal. He’d heard of stalkers, but this was on a whole other level.

He didn’t eat lunch much unless he didn’t have enough breakfast. Rhea would ask and even if he said no, she’d leave something that he’d sometimes eat. Boredom was the mood of the day other than apprehension and anticipation that she would just kill him. Sometimes he’d fall asleep there on the couch and he’d wake up late, always covered by a blanket. A pillow under his head and the room completely dark. Rhea would be sitting by his head, her sharp fingers raking through his hair like she was scratching a cat.

Dinner if he wanted and then they’d clean up differently and go to bed. Rhea locked the door before they went to bed all the time. There was never a change.

Rhea wrapped her arms around him that he almost fell out of the stool. He would have heard her if he wasn’t preoccupied with just staring at the wall. Her arms were tight around him, even pushing his boobs up a bit, but he didn’t make any sudden movements.

“You know, if you ever fall, I’ll be there to catch you” she whispered.

“What?” he asked confused, but his thought process halted with a groan.

He felt like he’d been punched from behind his eyeballs and he closed his eyes. He did actually fall back. Like he’d just lost control of his nerves. He couldn’t move and now was just against Rhea in a way he didn’t want to. Her breasts pressing against his back like that was just…odd.

You know the feeling you get when you could be being dragged to your demise or hell, well he didn’t know what that ever felt like until now. He blinked with difficulty as he was pulled back. Rhea was going to kill him. Had sedated him to do a snuff film. He was sure of it. The dark web thing. This was how it always happened.

Or did she want to…his heart was hammering in his chest as he thought that.

“There” Rhea said as they backed up against the couch and she laid him down on his stomach gently. “Comfy?”

“No!” it came as a surprise that he could actually speak. He couldn’t just control his limbs then. He didn’t like her behind him when he was so powerless.

She smiled at him sheepish as he glared at her. She got the remote from the coffee table and turned it on before sitting at her normal spot by his head. “I know you’re mad. And I’m sorry” she cradled his head so she could place him on her lap.

It was hard but she settled for resting his cheek on her so he could face the TV. He was tempted to really bite her. Her skin was just there…but he couldn’t protect himself from any and all attacks.

“Oh look!” she called to his attention. Her fingers in his hair again in that way he didn’t like. “You’re on TV again”.

Again? He looked at the screen. He was on the news.

“The missing person’s case of one Dominik Mysterio still a mystery as San Diego’s own native disappears after running an errand on the day of his birthday…”

He was sure that he could still move his face. He was sure the look of rage, terror and just disdain. And he just felt devastated when it went to a clip of his dad.

“Come home Dominik please…”

He closed his eyes. He just couldn’t anymore, because the reason for all this was just sitting there so unbothered, unaffected that she was making a grown man cry on national television. He felt really disgusted.

“You know what I just realized?” she said perky.

He couldn’t stop the tear that ran down his cheek. It dropped down onto Rhea’s lap, but she might not have felt it, but he was sure she did. His throat hurt when he swallowed.

“The people you’ve…your previous partners, they’re like a copy of your mum”.

If Dom could jump away he would have. He was scared of her, but there were times he was scared for her like now. But his rage overshadowed any care.

“Your mum got dark hair, dark eyes. It speaks for itself really. Do you not like blondes, gingers? Blue or green eyes?” he felt like she moved her arm since it was still in his hair. Like she was shrugging. She was fucking shrugging.

He gritted his teeth as his jaw went taut. “So you’re so butt hurt that you weren’t my type that you went to the lengths of this?!” he wished he could look her in the eye. “So you dyed your hair and kidnapped me thinking I’d love you? Maybe if you weren’t fucking insecure-”

His head dropped heavily on the couch. He screamed enraged.

Rhea stood up quickly and he could hear her pounding all the way to the kitchen. Then her hand was in his hair, gripping it so tight that he felt some rip out from his skull. His eyes were already watery before, but now it doubled. The way she took his neck all the way back that he was scared it would break. He knew people did this pose in yoga, but he was certain he wasn’t laying right.

With the awkward angle, Rhea looked into his eyes. “Your tongue is quite sharp” she said smarmy, saccharine sweet. “How would it be if I cut it?” she had a knife in her left hand pointed at his lips.

His anger drained out of him as fast as a punctured tire. You could tell a lot from looking in the person’s eyes most times. She looked livid. She looked like she’d do what she said she’d do. For someone that said one thing the past few days, and now she was threatening body harm.

The tip pressed against his lower lip with dangerous intent. It became more apparent that this was a serious situation and mouthing off, getting angry wouldn’t do him any favours. A tear escaped from his eyes and rolled all the way down his cheek to his chin.

Rhea watched him patiently, but had a snarl on her face.

“I’m sorry” he said small. “I take it back”.

She pulled the blade away and let his head fall back down. Since he was elevated higher than before it hurt more on the way down. His pained moan went ignored. He heard her march right back to the kitchen, he heard the aggressive clatter of utensils hitting each other as she ripped a drawer open. She walked back to the couch. This time, the hands that cradled his head wasn’t gentle. It was unfeeling.

She placed his head back on her lap. Just the earlier position. She didn’t scratch his head this time.

“As I was saying, before you rudely interrupted me” she stressed, her tone was cold. “Your tall girlfriend, what’s her name? Raquel. Rodriguez? Gonzalez? What are you doing with a girl that can’t commit to a last name? Dark hair, dark eyes. The guy you’re cheating on her with, dark hair, dark eyes…”

If he could freeze he would, all he could do was stare wide at the screen. “What?” she asked goading.

“Thought no one would know?”

“I don’t-I’m not…” he stammered,

“She can’t commit to a name and you can’t commit to her. Two of you are playing yourselves” she gripped his hair and tugged, but didn’t pull all the way to the end. Just gripped it tight.

“What would daddy think if you were fucking a friend and partner of his hmm?” she asked coy, but cruel.

“You’re manipulative Dominik. You have everyone thinking you’re the perfect and dutiful son. Making them think you can do no wrong, that you have no immoral bone in your body, and you threw yourself at an older man shamelessly. You’ve introduced that woman to your family, your parents have joked about marriage, and not once did you consider her feelings” she said mockingly.

Dom was quiet. Ashamed. There were still a lot of questions. How did she know this? Those conversations were intimate.

“Seth. That’s his name right?”

Dom exhaled deeply.

“You have everyone around you eating out the palm of your hand just so you can get down like a bitch. Look in the mirror before you judge me” she growled and let his head drop heavily on her lap.

He exhaled again. Should he scream? Should he cry? No, he should run faraway.

He had nothing to say, so he just laid there, still in shock. He stared through the screen as the movie played. He didn’t know what it was anymore. That feeling of being dragged to his demise…he decided this was hell.

He didn’t know how much time had passed that he had just laid there. Did he even blink? He was sure that he had cried because his eyes were burning.

“Dom?” Rhea whispered. Had he fallen asleep?

“I’m going out for a while. You want tendies don’t you?” she was all smiles now, but he didn’t care. He’d been in one position too long and his sides were starting to hurt. “I’ll be back soon okay. Don’t go anywhere” and she stood up.

“But-but what if I have to use the bathroom?”

“Oh!” she exclaimed. “Almost forgot” he heard her padded footsteps depart and when she came back she didn’t come to his line of sight, The alarm bells sounded when she tugged on the waistbands of his shorts.

“NO!” he screamed. He tried with all his might to move, but all he could do was just turn his neck to the other side. “Don’t. Don’t. Rhea I beg you. Please no!” that would be the worst thing. Not standing in front of Rhea naked or what she had told him. Having her take his shorts off to do what exactly? And he couldn’t stop her.

“But you wore this the first three days” she supplied.

“I’ll hold it. I’ll hold it” he pleaded. He wouldn’t debase himself. Further.

“Alright” she let go of his shorts. “There’s food for you when the numbness wears off. Don’t make a mess” and she pulled away. He heard her footsteps recede but he didn’t hear a door open. He didn’t hear the click of a door opening and closing. Rhea didn’t walk to the front door. All those locks didn’t shake. That meant she used another exit.

There was another exit.

He’d have been excited to try and find it, but he just continued to lay there. Not like he wanted to. He tried to move. He kept groaning just willing his body to move. Just so he could get off the couch, so he could walk to the kitchen to get a drink of water. He was really thirsty. There was also the fact that he needed to use the toilet.

He wasn’t going to make a mess. That would be something that he wouldn’t be able to live down. And Rhea would be forced to clean it up. He held it. All those long trips he’d been on and didn’t feel comfortable using a public restroom. Don’t just think about it. Stay calm and just breathe. Don’t try to force it.  It’d wear off. Just relax and don’t force anything.

When the feeling started to come back, it came involuntary. His left arm spasmed so hard that he almost fell. It felt weird when he flexed his fingers. Like the veins in his body vibrated at every movement. His right leg came next and he kicked the armrest. He tried raising himself just with an arm and tried to walk with just a leg. He fell on his butt.

He tried again and that was what he kept doing till all his limbs began to work again. Walking, he felt like a new-born colt. He bumped into chairs, kicked the side of furniture with his big and little toe. Falling once he tried to stand straight. He had eaten on the floor and proceeded to crawl up the stairs so he could get to the bathroom. The room was too far so he settled for the bathroom. He only had to pee.

He didn’t know where Rhea got the water from or if she was paying bills for where they were staying. He just squatted underneath the spray of cold water. Just like how he’d zoned out during breakfast, how he did the same when he was with Rhea. And like now that he didn’t even care when the bathroom door opened. He didn’t flinch when the glass door slid open. He was feeling weird, still tired. All he could do was fold his arms a bit to cover up himself.

He didn’t turn back. He was always apprehensive when she was behind him and he knew she was going to do something.

Her wet feet slapped against the floor and her hands came to rest on his shoulders. Her hands felt weird on him. Spidery. Or it was just his scared mind.

“Want me to wash your back?”

He only hung his head as she moved her hands that she hadn’t even lathered with soap.

“I got you tendies” her breath was hot on his ear and her lips touched his lobe. He flinched away.

He didn’t bring change of clothes in here. The towels were on the rack. He’d have to walk naked past Rhea and walk to go and get it. Once Rhea was done helping, she took her own shower. The door that opened was on her side not his, so he did brush against her a bit.

He picked his discarded clothes he had left on the floor and put it in the hamper. He went into the room and changed into night clothes. All he wanted to do was sleep. Today really took it out of him. Took everything out of him. His privacy, his integrity and his dignity.

Rhea walked in with a towel. She smiled at him and he didn’t react. He just laid back, looking up at the ceiling. Rhea moved around the room getting ready for the night.

“Won’t you have dinner? I got the tendies you like. Along with the ranch” she said sweetly. He ignored her, turning to her side of the bed.

“Tomorrow then” Rhea hummed.

Now he could sleep. Rhea locked the door and all she had to do was turn the lights off, but she went to the toilet and came back out. She shook something that did make him flinch. He didn’t trust her holding things, especially after her pulling a knife on him.

He just hugged himself and curled up.

“Are you mad at me Dom?” he heard something pop off.

“I’m sorry” it didn’t sound genuine. She sounded happy.

“Do you forgive me?”

He gasped and looked over his shoulder once her hand came down on his shoulder.

“For you” there was a pill on her other palm.

Why did it look familiar? Like…

“That is a suppressant. You do need to take it or else, well…you know” she giggled shyly.

“That isn’t…my regular dosage is…you’re going to…”

“Not your regular dosage I’m sure, but I can’t let you overdose” she tutted.

“You can’t-You can’t do that!” he said aghast.

His dosage was three pills at a time, twice a week. Now he was having just one pill a week? He’d have a heat in no time, and with no one but Rhea around…

“I did say I’ll make you beg. If I have to get you there, no biggie” she smirked.

Dom placed a hand over his mouth. It just suddenly weighed down on him and his shoulders began to shake. He just turned his neck away and cried into his palm.

“Aww” she cooed. “It’s okay Dom. Don’t cry” and she hugged him. “You’ll make me cry”.

He turned in her arms and now they were facing each other. He cried in her arms. He woke up in this strange place, with this strange person who knew everything about him and wanted to love him and wouldn’t let him leave. She was putting him through pain, putting his family through pain and she didn’t care. She wanted to cut his tongue out, she knew about his relationships, knew his secrets and was now targeting his heat.

“It’s okay” Rhea tossed the pill so she could hold him. One hand pressed on the back of his head, the other round his shoulder as she hugged him.

“I’m sorry” he said raspy.

“It’s okay. I forgive you” she grinned sharply. Just like the cat who had gotten the canary.

She loved it when a plan came together.

Chapter Text

He woke up well rested. Something he hadn’t had the privilege to do recently. His bones were heavy as were his eyes. Puffy. That was what happened when you cried yourself to sleep. It left you weak and took everything out of you. A win-win maybe. He blinked to clear the blurriness and disorientation.

Rhea stirred in front of him. Her arms still around him and his head was on her chest. She was awake.

“Good morning sleepyhead” she cooed and kissed his forehead. He didn’t look up. More like he couldn’t. All that happened last night was a moment of weakness because she drove him to his limit. She was going to drive him insane.

“Morning” he mumbled.

She ran her sharp nails through his hair softly. “I have to go make us breakfast”.

It wasn’t like he was holding her back, she was the one that had to let go of him. This wasn’t sleepy morning cuddles. “Okay”.

He moved away from her first just so he would have some alone time. Every time Rhea was close to him, something bad always happened. Just to him. She sat up and he could feel her still staring. “Do you feel better from last night?”

Wasn’t this how abusive relationships were?

“I’m sorry if I got you upset” she said genuine.

This was some sort of routine.

“It’s alright” he said dismissively.

“Okay” she nodded and stood up.

She walked to the door, opened it and walked out. She left it open.

His eyes irritated him. He stood up and walked to the toilet just so he could wash his face. What was his next move? Finding the secret exit. But there didn’t seem to be anything else. That was if Rhea actually left. She could just have sat somewhere and watched.

He wouldn’t just jump into anything without thinking again. Rhea only wanted to see him naked the first time, what if she wanted more the next time? There would be no more question and answers game, but he could get her to talk. Her talking though would get him mad again. He didn’t want to think about the aftermath.

He walked to the wardrobe and opened it down. Not really sure of what he wanted to get out of it. He battled with his thoughts. What could he use against Rhea? She just wanted one thing from him and he wished it was just sex. Rhea said she knew him, that he was manipulative, but she didn’t know his type. She could have just walked up to him and just talked.

There was a policy of not getting close personally to people who came to the gym and people who would become clients. With Seth…he wasn’t a client. Neither was Raquel. He should really talk to her to know how she was able to find this out.

He put his hands on his waist as he looked at his options. He usually grabbed the first thing he touched. Underwear was in the drawer in the bottom compartment. There were clothes hung up and clothes folded down below. There were shoes and boxes up above, but he’d never ventured that far yet. He always took beneath. There was no reason for that. It was just easier. And he guessed the ones hung were for her.

When his hands touched the pile there was that crumply sound. Like paper. He removed his hand then pressed again just so he could confirm what he heard. It was like that wrapping paper. He removed the top pile and it was clothes. Not like he expected something like a severed head. It was clothes. Clothes wrapped up.

He could take it out, but he’d mess up the pile and he didn’t want her to know he was snooping. He had to push his head in deeper. It was a small and dark space. The light in the room wasn’t on. There was only much you could see when the sun hadn’t come up.

It was black that he could tell. With the clothes she wore, why would Rhea need dry-cleaning? It proved that she had left yesterday. There was a secret entrance. He put the top layer he had removed back on the top. As he smoothened the clothes, his hand hit the end. What he touched wasn’t the wooden wall. It was something else. He really couldn’t explain it.

Was it steel? Metal? His finger traced the long pole. Or was it a barrel? There was a voice in the back of his head that was telling him he knew exactly what it was, but there was no way right? His fingers went all the way to the top then he felt the wide hole.

He flinched away, holding onto his hand with his other as he backed away. She said something about a bear. That was probably it. It had to be.

“DOM!” he heard Rhea call, causing him to spin around. “Breakfast”.

“Okay” he said to himself.

\\\\\

When he came down for the second time, Rhea was still cleaning up. He guessed she didn’t have dinner last night so that was why breakfast was huge today. He was apprehensive to say what he wanted to. Downright nervous, but he wasn’t going to play the understanding boyfriend with her and ask how she knew so much about him.

“Don’t forget to take your suppressant. I don’t want you to go into withdrawal” she said over her shoulder like she was just giving him a friendly reminder.

He gulped.

“Why don’t we play a game?” he said as quiet as a mouse.

Rhea removed her gloves. She meticulously, on purpose put the gloves down slowly and turned the tap on so she could wash her hands. She didn’t answer or act like she heard him till she turned around. Then she leaned back with her hands against the sink and then leered at him.

“More question and answers that you’re going to fail at?” she chuckled.

“No” he denied. “Not that”.

“What then?” she asked eagerly.

He breathed out and folded his arms. “Last time was me, this time is you”.

“Me?!” she asked dramatically, placing a hand on his chest.

His heart pounded wildly.

“You get to do what you want!” he finally spat it out.

“What I want?” her black nails drummed on the edge of the sink.

She was starting to aggravate her with how she kept repeating everything he said. She released a sharp amused laugh. “Not sure you’d like it” she smirked.

“What is it?” he asked quietly. “Sex?”

“I told you I’m not a rapist” she pouted her lips. “If you don’t want it, I won’t do it”.

“It’s not sex” he muttered. “You wanted to see last time you saw. Now, you get to touch” he was so warm with embarrassment, so he looked down at his feet. Her fingers drummed the edge faster. Maybe with excitement.

“Touch? How would I touch?”

“On the surface. Nothing invasive”.

She hummed. “And what do you get out of this?”

“You let me out”.

She looked thoughtful. “How can I trust you? It’s going to be a very vulnerable position for me. How do I know you won’t attack me?”

“I won’t” he said firmly. “You kept your word the first time and I’ll do the same”.

She stepped away from the sink. This time he didn’t step back when she came closer, so she wouldn’t think he was scared and just say no to this. “If you let me put in some security measures, then I agree”.

His eyes were huge, not expecting that answer. There was something up. There was a catch. Like what he had felt in the wardrobe. She was going to chase him for sport and record it. Like that telenovela with the rainbow killers.

“Do we have a deal?” she grinned.

“Wh-wh-what sort of measure?”

Rhea didn’t say anything. And that was how he found himself back in the room, sitting on the bed, looking gobsmacked as Rhea had two handcuffs in one hand. Where exactly that had come from, he had no idea. He was still trying to figure that out, then Rhea spoke.

“Do you want to take your clothes off completely or you’d like a robe?”

His stomach felt like it collapsed. Things were getting heated and real. It was moving too fast.

He had to force himself to focus. He’d already been bare before her prior, wearing that robe would be like a mockery of some romantic moment. “Don’t worry”.

“Should I give you privacy?” she asked soberly.

“No!” he answered irritated.

She shut up and just watched.

His eyes were fixed on a spot on the side as he undressed. He took his top off first and his shorts followed after.

Was there an expression that was WHITE HOT EMBARRASMENT?

“Safe word is cranberry” Rhea said above him, then held her hand out, wanting his hand. He tried schooling his features and controlling his involuntary body movements. Like his limbs shaking. Once her fingers wrapped underneath his wrist, he started to feel the heat.

He closed his eyes and exhaled.

“You don’t feel like it, I’ll stop” she said seriously.

His eyes stung painfully. Like he wanted to cry. His desperation for freedom didn’t outweigh how scared he was. “You’re going to have to push back to the headboard”.

“Okay” he croaked. “Okay”.

Rhea didn’t follow as he shifted back with his arms. He was the one to ask for this. He wouldn’t chicken out. He just couldn’t stay here much longer. Right now he couldn’t look at Rhea. Didn’t even chance a glance. He knew the look in her eyes would be like the first time. Like some hungry, starving person.

He kicked on instinct when she placed a hand on his ankle. They made eye contact due to that.

“I’m putting the handcuff on now” she told him as she hooked the other hand to the post by his feet, then it went round his ankle with a click. Now he was effectively trapped and his lungs felt heavy. Like it was shutting down. He couldn’t breathe.

Rhea walked to his side and held onto the end of the handcuff and clipped it to the headboard. His chest was heaving and he couldn’t hide his laboured breathing. He was panicking.

‘’Are you ready?”

He nodded slowly. He felt like he was going to vomit.

Rhea left his side and went down to his feet area. He should focus on something else. Close his eyes and think of someone else, but he couldn’t. He really couldn’t. When she touched his free ankle, he shook his leg, trying to ward her off.

He was sure he had failed at hiding just how he felt about this.

“Do you want to keep going?”

“Yeah” he said shakily.

Her hand pressed against his shin and went all the way up. She was slow about it, like they were a couple trying something new. He’d been the one to suggest it and he thought he’d be able to pull through. The problem wasn’t doing something like this, the problem was reacting. His body reacting to someone like Rhea. Maybe he’d do something stupid like enjoy it.

Her hand went past his knee, her fingers tracing his inner thigh. His knee jumped, the one not cuffed and he curled his knee inside.

“Cranberry!“ he cried. “Cranberry! Cranberry!“ he said desperately.

Rhea stopped and stood straight. “It’s okay. Nothing is happening” she said comfortingly.

He couldn’t even curl in on himself to hide. How did he look now just lying there like that? He should start keeping score of how many times he made a fool of himself in front of Rhea.

“Are you scared? Feeling overwhelmed?”

“Just get me out of here” he croaked as he tried curling in on himself. He really couldn’t turn.

“Okay. I’ll go get the key” the part he was cuffed to was Rhea’s side. So she walked to his side to the nightstand. The shorts she wore had pockets, so seeing her remove leys from there was odd. He’d never seen her with keys ever. She opened the drawer and his heartrate picked up when he saw Rhea bring a phone out.

His phone?

He didn’t care. There was a phone and he could have access to a phone in the future. Her hand rummaged through and he closed his eyes. “Wait”.

Rhea stopped. “What?”

“Let me just catch my breath” he said shyly.

“Are you sure? You look like you’re about to cry and jump out your skin. You clearly don’t want this” he saw her put the phone back in and close the drawer. She didn’t use a key.

“I don’t-I’m just…this is new. Just let me catch my breath and then we can go again”.

She looked at him pensive.

“Please?” he begged.

She rounded the bed and sat on his side. “Alright” she said in acceptance. “Whenever you’re ready”.

He closed his eyes. This was all for freedom. He’d be getting out of here if he succeeded and he could get her phone.

“I’m ready” he relented.

This time she got on her knees and straddled him. If she leaned any closer he was sure she’d hear his heartbeat. Focus on something else. The bulb that was above the fan, the door that was left open and maybe someone would just pop in. But her eyes were all in his face.

“Are you nervous?” she placed her palm on his torso and his stomach sunk in. He instantly felt cold. He got goosebumps all over and his nipples got hard.

He should just close his eyes, but her hand went high, all the way to the middle of his chest. His free hand gripped onto the sheet in fear.

“Your skin is so soft” and her other hand joined in. Both sides of his ribs, going up and down. Ticklish. He’d have laughed if he wasn’t so nervous. Her hands moved over his body carefully. It wasn’t what he expected at all. He thought more desperate and feverish because of this deadly obsession. Both hands left his ribs and she cupped his chest.

“Just on the surface” he whispered, looking to the left side.

“I know. Nothing invasive” and she let go. Now she was descending down his body, going back to his legs. He tried keeping them shut, but a deal was a deal. So when she placed a hand wanting to get between his thighs there wasn’t any resistance.

Just on the surface.

He flinched away when he felt her palm press against his middle. “I’m not doing anything” she said coyly.

“Yeah” he looked at her through his peripheral. “Just keep it like that”.

“I promise” she removed her hand and went all the way down. He yelped when Rhea lifted his free leg and did try to push her away.

“Rhea” he said tremulous. “S-we said-“

“I know” she leaned down and he prayed to God. Just no. He didn’t want her mouth on him in any way. But she shocked him again when she took a huge sniff. That had him looking down between his legs completely baffled. Did she just-no, she did.

“Like aphrodisiac” she licked her lips, then placed a hand over her mouth, the same hand she had used to touch him there. And she licked it.

She smiled at him and all he could do was just cover his face.

She giggled. “Now we switch. We turn you on your back now”.

“Fuck” he groaned.

\\\\\

He didn’t want to have lunch at all. It was just touching. Like an erotic massage with a lot of commentary. Well he hoped that was what it was like. He hadn’t had it. Just being in front of her after all she had said and done. Where to go? If he went to the room she’d be there. If he went to the bathroom she’d come in. On the couch, she’d come sit beside him.

He didn’t want to be in the room after everything she said concerning his scent and his butt. She had no shame saying all that. He was embarrassed for her.

When he came to, Rhea was in front of him. Just bent forward, hands on her knees and just looking at him like one would be looking at a puppy through a window.

“What?” he mumbled.

“I said you could go out. Thought that broke you” she teased.

“What?!” he had to lean back just to take that news in.

“You heard me” she smiled.

“Are you joking?” he asked uneasy.

“No” she shook her head.

“You’re messing with me right?” he asked in disbelief. There was just no way. She wouldn’t let him out like that when he would run directly to the police and bring them here. Something was up…she wouldn’t just keep her word. He didn’t expect her to keep her word.

“Why would I?” she asked mock shocked. “A deal is a deal”.

He was sceptical. Rhea stood up slowly and turned to walk towards the door. “Come on” she made a come hither motion over her shoulder. He stood up and walked. He didn’t even have slippers on.

She took the key out of her back pocket, jiggled it in front of him and put it in the hole. The house was really quiet now. Too quiet all of a sudden. Had he even turned the TV on? She turned her wrist left. That was the first click.

“Just like that?” this was too good to be true.

“Hmhm” the second click followed.

“You don’t think I’ll go to the police? Do you want me to really escape?!” he asked astonished.

“Do you want to stay?” the third and final click and she went to the latch.

Then the bolt.

She opened the door and for the first time in who knows how many days or weeks, he felt actual breeze all over his body. There was a door in front of the door. That wooden door with the net. Been a while since he had seen that. He was seven he was sure, and that had been his childhood home.

Rhea pulled the bolt and pushed it open. The string creaked. He didn’t hear any of this when Rhea “left”.

“You can go” she grinned,

Rhea had a gun. She was going to chase him down and kill him. She’d film it. He just didn’t believe that she was going to let him leave her alive.

But freedom. He could escape if he was fast.

He took a step and stood directly on the threshold. Not inside and not outside. A deal was a deal. He hoped.

He stepped out and his feet touched sand. Hot sand, and this earthy, wet smell. Like they were in the forest.

“Oh, and Dom!” Rhea still stood there, watching him. He looked over his shoulder. “Watch out for the bear traps” it was friendly advice, but it sounded ominous and she didn’t care.

The door creaked close. He heard the bolt shift back. It was locked and there was the bang of the second door.

He was alone and outside the house. He should look around to get a really good picture so he could lead the police back here, but a more rational voice was telling him to just run. And he did before Rhea came out and “changed” her mind. It could go the way Wrong Turn did and she’d be shooting arrows at his head.

He would only go one way. Forward. There were no tyre tracks to follow. He just walked one way and hoped for the best. He had no survival skills and felt he was going round in circles. He didn’t know what time it was, the bear that was lurking around, and the mentioned traps. He didn’t want to fall into a trap. He just needed to find road before night came. He couldn’t be wandering about here. What if he encountered something worse than Rhea? He believed that they were people like that out there and worse than her.

He kept moving. He was really sweaty, thirsty and had stepped on too much rocks. The weather was dreary and was just weighing him down. Summer would do it to you. He wiped his forehead with his arm and continued walking. The sun got higher and it got hotter.

He was going to die here.

What if him going forward just took him closer to the edge?

“I need water” he said raspy. He should save his voice. He didn’t know what anything was anymore.

He just wanted to rest. The sun was killing him and the singing birds were annoying. He felt like his organs were going to get cut and drop all the way down. He cleaned his face and continued walking, more like dragging his feet. They had gone numb. He wasn’t feeling anything under there again. How long had it been?

Then there was a honk.

A loud hunk that scared him so much that he slipped. He screamed hoarse as his leg was punctured. He didn’t know what it was that went into his leg, but it hurt. It went in deep and felt cold wash all over him. He was screaming, clutching his bleeding foot.

He had to move or he would die here. Maybe attract that bear. He’d come so close. A honk meant a truck. A truck meant a road. He was close to a road. Tears obscuring his vision, he crawled on his hands and knees. He found a tree to support himself and stood up.

His left foot planted on the ground. He couldn’t put the right on the ground. He’d pull whatever that was out of him later on. For now, he would hop all the way. Freedom was just in front of him.

He dragged his right leg along as he went down the path he thought he heard the honk. As he went further, the ground began to get tougher. It could be the dehydration and the blood loss telling him that, but he’d take what he could.

He heard the honk again. Maybe another one, he didn’t care. He could get out of here. All this would be over and just be a forgotten story in a documentary. He could just cry in relief.

His vision was getting blurry, but he could see a road. It was just up ahead. Just a few more feet and he’d be-

His world tipped upside-down. No, he was the one who went upside-down.

Something had wrapped round his legs and took him up. He did go back down. His head hit the forest ground and he was knocked unconscious.

Though he was unconscious, he was still hung upside-down, his body being slowly twirled around just a few feet away from the road.

He didn’t hear the crunching of leaves underneath boots approaching.

\\\\\

He opened his eyes weakly. He was in pain and completely disoriented. He felt dizzy and like someone had used his head as a drum set. Where was he? He felt like he was floating.

He couldn’t keep his eyes open for long so he closed them. When he opened them again, he could see he was approaching a house.

“…almost got away. I must admit I didn’t expect you to get very far” the voice sounded warped and distant. Like that demon called HIM. Soothing but also grating on his nerves. Light and deep. He didn’t know which way was up anymore.

He groaned and tried to move, but Rhea just placed him back in position on the trolley.

“Hope you’re not mad. I told you I’d let you out, not that I’d let you go. A loophole” she laughed. “Just like you did that day” she said through grit teeth. “Remember?” she said forcefully as she stopped before the door.

“No matter” she said after a deep inhale. “Let’s get you patched up”.

Dom lost consciousness again.

Chapter Text

“How’s your foot?” she asked from her spot on the floor, gesturing to his propped-up bandaged foot resting on the armrest.

He didn’t answer. He was salty about what went down a few days ago. His escape had just been there. Just a few feet away and he would have been out of there. Someone would have seen him. They would have helped him. Why let him get so close? He knew she must have been following him the entire time. And he was just unfortunate to fall into a trap. She said it was a bear trap.

There was no way that rope trap he fell into could lift a bear. Not even a cub. How did she know he’d fall into one? And of all places so close to the road. Like she was just dangling his freedom before him like it was a toy. Just telling him that he couldn’t.

And to make it all the more worse, a thorn had pierced through his foot. Didn’t go all the way thank goodness. And it had been pulled out when he was unconscious. Didn’t mean it wouldn’t hurt when he finally woke up and found himself back here.

It was devastating, but he couldn’t feel completely defeated. Rhea had a phone. There was a phone in the house. All he had to do was get it. Unlock it. Easier said than done.

He folded his arms and looked away. Rhea claimed she knew him, so he giving her attitude due to recent events wouldn’t be uncommon. She had this idea that things would happen between them, like love would blossom and they’d be a couple. Whatever. All he needed was access to that phone, and for that, he had to get close.

“You’re mad” she stated.

There really was no reason to say “I said I’d let you out, not that I’d let you go” with that maniacal grin on her face. “No,” he said under his breath.

“Aww. You’re pouting” she cooed.

“I’m not” he mumbled.

She exhaled through her nose, but she didn’t sound ticked off. It was like an amused snort.

He had taken a tetanus shot. It was frightening seeing her hold a syringe and a needle. It was like nightmares he didn’t know he had were coming to life before him. The average person didn’t have those in their house. Unless they were in the medical field or did drugs. It could be both for her. He thought it was only when you got punctured by metal, but dying because of a thorn wouldn’t be ideal.

He wanted Rhea behind bars or locked up forever in a mental hospital.

“Alright. I’m sorry” she said playful, but still sincere. Was familiar. He and Raquel had been on both sides. Rhea wanted this couple's experience. He wanted the phone. A good bargain that Rhea didn’t need to know about.

He only huffed.

“You never really had the tendies I got you. I could heat it up for you. Does that sound good?”

“Fine” he grumbled.

She smiled brightly and stood up. She had a spring in her step as she headed to the kitchen. “Anything else? There’s ice cream, I know you like beer-“

“I’m sure you do!” he blurted out then bit his lip. He hadn’t wanted to say that. Especially out loud.

“Well, you know. People do crazy things for love” she replied.

‘A bit too crazy’ he thought to himself this time.

“So are you a nurse or something else?”

She didn’t answer immediately. He looked at the TV screen and Rhea continued to move about the kitchen. The microwave beeped. Soon enough she was walking back to him, that special tray in her hand so she could just place it over him. Ranch in a small bowl, barbecue sauce in another one. Steaming plate of chicken tenders and a bowl of ice- cream.

“Something else" Rhea sat on the couch.

Only one of his legs was elevated. The other was on the floor, so his legs were spread in a way it would if one was lounging. But now that she was sitting there, with that stunt she had pulled. He was thankful for the blanket and he was going to have to sit up anyway. Still had to elevate it.

“Is this a game?” there was a twinkle in her eye.

“No, it’s not” he’d start with the ice cream. Chocolate and vanilla.

“So you finally realized that you could talk to me without making it something. Like a game to get out” she said impressed, then bent a leg underneath her on the couch.

“Didn’t hear you complain” he said to himself.

“I didn’t’' she smiled, then giggled.

“Would you actually answer my questions if I didn’t promise anything?” he asked lowly.

She moved her shoulders in a way like she was weighing her options. “Depends on the question”.

“Quite unfair since you know almost everything about me. How did you manage that? I get stalking, but those conversations you heard, the things you know. What’s that? Like the work you do must have you moving around a lot and must pay well if you have mics to listen to me”.

“Yes, I did follow you around. And it’s not like I went out of my way to hide or be inconspicuous. You just never did notice me. I was there when you had lunch every Wednesday with Austin. I did come to the gym once in a while. I followed you on your little dates with Raquel.” She batted her eyelashes and clasped her hands. Smile huge, but then rolled her eyes and lost it. “Your rendezvous with Seth. Sometimes at the gym, in his penthouse…he even took you to LA for the weekend. You had Austin cover for you the entire time that he had to use the gym in his apartment complex. You got yourself a real sugar daddy” she said crudely.

They both wanted the same thing, didn’t they?

“So you were always there?”

“Yes. You weren’t perceptive at all” she said nonchalantly. Like she wasn’t confessing to a crime.

“I would have noticed someone like you around all the time” he said sure of himself.

She scoffed. “Well, you didn’t. But I didn’t have my hair dyed and no tattoos. I’m sure you’d have noticed that” she made her eyes huge and blink owlishly.

“Instead of judging me or doing this, you could just have approached me. It’s not that hard”.

“I did try” she said with a small voice.

“Huh?” he asked dumbly.

.

.

.

.

.

She took multiple breaths, trying to get herself psyched. All she had to do was just walk up to him, say a few nice things, and then ask him out. It’d gotten to the point that when she opened her mouth, her friends would groan knowing what was about to come out. To talk dreamingly about the trainer she had met at the gym she’d signed up at.

The tall boy with the sweetest scent and the brownest eyes, coupled with the warmest smile. Her best friend had told her, “If you don’t ask him out, don’t talk about this with me”.

She couldn’t not talk about this with him. But it’d be even better talking about all their dates. She’d practiced this in the mirror. ‘Hi I’m Rhea. We’ve not been probably introduced and I’d like to get to know you’. They hadn’t really had a conversation. Like a real conversation. They knew the other’s name and they greeted each other when they saw the other. He always smiled at her. She wondered if it was something he had to do because he worked here. Did he even remember her name? She could swear sometimes there was that dazed look in his eyes when he looked at her, like trying to place a name to a face.

Easy. She just had to say it.

He was talking to that friend of his that came in every day. She wasn’t here every day, but when she was, he was. She should do it now. She exhaled and sat up from the bench.

“Dom?” his dad called him and walked towards him, someone she hadn’t seen followed him. “I’d like to introduce you to Seth”.

“Dominik” Seth held out both hands to take Dom’s one hand.

“Nice-“ his voice failed and he had to cough. “Nice to meet you” Dom smiled the biggest smile she had ever seen. And his pupils were dilated so much that she could see it from where she stood. And Seth still hadn’t let go.

His whole attention just focused on Seth. Like nothing else mattered. She felt her heart break before turning away.

.

.

.

“…but you didn’t even, you let that stop you? That could have-“

“Please,” she said dismissively. “You looked at him like he was the only person in the world. I wasn’t going to be in a competition as second best”.

“So there are mics and cameras in my house?”

“Just mics. I’m not crazy” she said absurdly. So there were things that she found extreme? Good to know.

“I’ve heard you talk about how your parents are suffocating, I’ve heard you and Raquel talk, heard you talk to talk to Seth about Raquel, heard you and Raquel fuck and heard you touch yourself to Seth” she leered at him, wriggling her brows.

He looked away.

“Honestly! Don’t act shy now with all you do. I mean seriously. You act like you aren’t capable of a lot of things on the surface, but in private you’re so nasty” she said it in a cruel mocking way, even if she had a smile on her face.

“What I do with my sex life-“

“Cheat you mean” she deadpanned.

“I’m not…Seth was there before Raquel. We have an-“

“You don’t have an agreement. You’re a dirty cheater” she said impassive.

“My parents wouldn’t let me be with someone like Seth-“

“So you kept Raquel around for appearances?” she jeered. “What about her feelings?”

“Why do you care anyway?” he said haunted.

“Questions I just always wanted to ask. Why wouldn’t they let you date someone like Seth? You’re an adult, aren’t you?” she asked mischievously.

“He’s partners with my dad, the age difference-“

“And you won’t fight that for some reason. But still, get down and dirty?” she asked thoughtfully. “And you still want to judge me?” she asked derisively.

“I didn’t kidnap anyone and hold them against their will-“

“…but you are a liar, a cheater, a manipulator, and a pretender. Yours is just the lesser of two evils right? You’re only human right?” she pouted.

“Just by following me around and putting mics in my place doesn’t mean you know me” he said despondently.

She only shrugged.

“How did you put mics in my place?”

“Your gym bag. Things you bought at the store. It wasn’t hard to just slip it on. And because of that I got your schedule, knew where you’d be and when. I always wanted to watch you sleep, but I did settle for hearing you. Now though, I get to have that” and she beamed.

The mood swings were crazy.

And it was back to being in love with him.

“Maybe I don’t know you the way you’d like to, but if you want, now that you’re here, you could get to know me. And I can do the same” she said hopefully.

Didn’t she understand that he had no choice? But this was his only chance, right? That phone was still in that dresser drawer.

“Okay” he nodded.

She looked really relieved.

He should try the tendies now. He didn’t like eating them when they weren’t fresh. I’d been a couple of days, but he appreciated that she had gone out to get it. He really didn’t. She drugged him.

“Is this your house? Like you live in the middle of the woods? Are you a lumberjack?”

“That’d be some girls fantasy right there, but no” she made a shooing motion with her hand. “Do you want to cuddle?”

“I’m still eating. Maybe another time”.

“It’s alright” she didn’t sound mad. They slept together so they were already close enough as it was. “Let’s watch a movie”.

“That’d be nice”.

\\\\\

“Dom” he was being shook awake gently. The tone and intention didn’t sound urgent so he just turned away.

“Dominik! Wake up!”

He groaned and turned towards the voice. He opened his eyes in time to see his mum walk out of the room.

He shot out of the bed instantly. “Mum!” he cried.

“Dom!” he heard her answer. Both his feet hit the floor and it shot painful vibrations up his knees to his brain. He fell on the floor, hitting his chin as he tried to break it. He couldn’t get up. Something like a weighted blanket or whatever was holding him down, but he still tried moving.

He couldn’t get down on his hands and knees so he crawled with his elbows and stomach like a seal. There were tears in his eyes now. “Mum!” he wasn’t sure he was moving and it looked like the door got further.

“Mum!!” he screamed desperately.

“Mum!!”

“Dom?” a concerned voice asked.

He opened his tearful eyes with a gasp and sat up abruptly. He tipped to the side, but Rhea pulled him back.

He was hyperventilating. He was crying. Rhea sprang into action. She cupped his cheeks. “It’s okay. It was just a bad dream. It wasn’t real”.

That just made Dom cry more. Making those pitiful gasping and whining sounds. Rhea hugged him. “Crap. You’re running a fever” she pulled away, but to her surprise, Dom held onto her tight and hugged her back. Heavily similar to how they had been in bed days ago, but this wasn’t one she could be happy about now though.

“Dom?” his arms came to wrap round the back of her neck. She was getting saturated in his scent. She guessed that was what was happening. She had reduced his dosage and his body was trying to adjust. All the effects of the earlier dosage, muting his scent and stalling heats and repressing hormones were wearing off before her.

She buried her nose where his scent was strongest. She pressed her cheek into his neck and started to rub against his sweet scent. The side of her lips touched his gland and she swore she almost got a taste.

Shivers had stopped wracking his frame and he seemed calm now. He wasn’t crying anymore. She leaned back, but not far enough. They were in each other’s face still. The tips of their noses touching. She was reacting to his scent and his lips were just there. She was staring at it. He knew she was staring at them.

She kissed him.

And again to her surprise, Dom did the unthinkable. He kissed her back.

She gripped onto the roots of his hair and kissed him. Licked into his mouth and pushed forward. He fell back onto the bed and she straddled his pelvis. Not the position she wanted to be between his legs, to just feel him in a way she had only hoped.

She wanted…

God she wanted…

She pulled her lips away but didn’t get off him.

She groaned and squeezed onto his clothes. He was looking at her confused.

“If I were a weaker Alpha, I’d do something stupid,” she said regretfully. “Just-this isn’t the right time. Do you understand? I’m not rejecting you. I just want this to happen at the right time. Okay?”

Dom could only nod.

Rhea lay on him comfortably. Like a cat.

Her hands were on him. Still hugging him as they were on the bed. Dom’s hand came up hesitantly and he placed it on the back of her head. He looked at the side of her head through his peripheral with a glower. He looked back up at the ceiling fan.

“So tell me about your dream”.

Soon, he’d be out of here.

Chapter Text

Rhea with her head in the clouds was a good thing. Well for her. There wasn’t really any change for him. She seemed happier and when she was, she wasn’t saying anything crazy. Like listening in on him and his family and hearing his intimate moments. He already didn’t do anything here, and since he was recovering, she was around more, ready to wait on him hand and foot. Asking what he wanted, ready to fulfil his wish. And was touchy.

Since she had said she wanted to get to know him more that was what they did. They talked a lot. Talking meant Rhea asking questions she already knew, or might know the answer to. She just wanted more clarity. She never really gave much about herself though. So she was hiding something.

She was twenty-five and had told him her accent wasn’t English, but Australian. She was always evasive when he asked about the house. Was it really her house? Did she really live here? Still nothing.

One thing they couldn’t ignore though, was the kiss.

Rhea had kissed him after that nightmare she had caused and in a moment of vulnerability he kissed back. Every time that something happened that just made him lose it, she was the only person there. Though she was the one who caused it, she was the only one there who could provide comfort. Finding comfort in the arms of your abductor was crazy.

He just wanted her phone.                                                  

But the kiss opened way to…

“Can I kiss you?” She’d always ask.

And like a fucking idiot, he’d say yes because…it did feel good.

Sometimes a thought would pass in his head saying, ‘You deserve what’s happening’.

He was a sexual person. He wouldn’t say overly sexual, but just the first time was enough to get him hooked. He didn’t want to think about Raquel and Seth in this situation. He did feel guilt concerning his situation on a normal day. Seth was someone he couldn’t be with. He knew that since the first day he saw him.

Maybe it was the forbidden nature of their relationship that kept him going back. There was that age difference, adding to the fact Seth and his dad were friends. Seth was like a dad to him. He gave him gifts, told him things he wanted to hear. He liked that sort of relationship. He liked how everything was new and exciting. Adventurous, but also the fear of getting caught.

Raquel was a safe option. His parents kept hounding him to show his relationship. Happened when you came from a family like his and an Omega heir. He had to use his twenties to make babies. He saw her at the gym from time to time. She was Latino. Tall and strong. That was what got his attention. Her strength. And that was why he was always there to help her out, correct her form.

Then they had gone for smoothies.

He hadn’t said anything about Seth to her in the beginning. He had said deeper into the relationship that what did push him to actually get into a relationship was his parents. But as the relationship progressed, and they got to know each other more and realised that they had a lot in common, the relationship continued. If that didn’t happen, he wouldn’t have kept her around. He did feel for her. He loved her, but not the way he felt for Seth.

Rhea said she loved him.

She kissed him and he liked it.

She had a good mouth, she knew how to use it. He didn’t know that she had a tongue piercing. It was new and interesting.

She was the one who always asked for it and that was all she did. He had a bit of respect for her, even though she insulted him a lot. This was the longest he’d gone without any sort of sexual activity and it was starting to show if he was starting to enjoy kissing her. If he was starting to think she was attractive.

Since he had agreed to kiss her after that nightmare, kisses were part of their routine and could happen at any given time. She’d walk up to him, wrap her arms around him, look up at him and smile. Then she’d ask.

They’d kiss after breakfast once she was done cleaning up. He’d be on the couch and she’d just cosy up to him and lean in for a kiss. If it was possible he was sure she’d kiss him for hours. If he was in bed, she’d straddle him and lean down to kiss him.

In her mind it must feel like the ideal relationship, but it really wasn’t. He liked to kiss. He liked kissing her. She didn’t go further despite the obvious arousal he could smell and feel from her. He never knew a cunt could emanate so much heat.

Anyway, she seemed to be enjoying this couple experience.

Sex would come soon at this rate and at first he’d have given that up easily, but now though, after realising that he enjoyed kissing her, and there was a chance that they had sexual chemistry, he didn’t want that. What if he liked that too? That was what scared him. And he didn’t want to risk that. He also needed to be out of here before his heat hit and he had no choice.

Sleeping with someone, casually or in a relationship, there had to be a little like. A little attraction. He didn’t need to start analysing Rhea in that way. He just needed to get out. Rhea was getting to know him and despite her being quiet, he was getting to know her.

For example, the keys stayed in her pocket. He checked every day to see if she had locked her nightstand drawer. She hadn’t. So it seemed that Rhea used the phone when he wasn’t close to her. She also slept deep. After their nightly make out session, she’d fall asleep beside him. He hadn’t been sleeping throughout the night since the day of his ‘excursion’ outside, because that wasn’t an escape.

He’d be awake, looking at her, looking at the ceiling, he’d get up to use the toilet and turn this way and that and she wouldn’t stir. Not once. There was a gun in the wardrobe. Well he hoped. He could take that, but he doubted it was loaded. Not that he had the mind to use it against her. But he’d be able to blow the door up without waking Rhea up. 

She wouldn’t sleep through a gunshot. But he’d have a chance and a head start to start running. He knew where to go. But running through the woods at night. With a bear on the loose and the traps.

He looked at his still bandaged foot.

He could get the key and the phone. Putting his hand in Rhea’s back pocket would be weird. And no doubt would feel the key leave its position. Taking her phone, he’d need a way to unlock it. Her finger or her face. So his only opening was when she’d be asleep.

Get the phone from her side, open it. So he’d have to switch their positions for one night. If he found a key, he could lock her in. Well that was if he found the right key. He wouldn’t pick the gun up. That was an accident waiting to happen. How would he switch their positions successfully? The only time he had been on her side was when she had cuffed him. He didn’t want to be cuffed again.

He could just ask.

It was mellow between them. Rhea didn’t act petty anymore towards what happened days ago and things that had happened in his life that she couldn’t control. These days, she really was delusional. Like this was real. But a delusional Rhea was a stable one. One that didn’t threaten him with a knife. But he knew that soon, with what he was planning, it’d set her off.

“Hey Dom” Rhea walked into the room, both hands behind her back.

“Yeah?” he took his foot over the floor. It didn’t hurt and wasn’t as sensitive. Great. Wouldn’t hurt trying to run away. He had no shoes.

“I got a surprise for you” and she sat beside him. He wished he had been quick so he could sit on her side.

“What?” he grinned. “More tendies?”

“Open it and see for yourself” she presented the white box with a red bow and dropped it on his lap.

He was scared a bit. He couldn’t show it though. He felt that she trusted him a bit and couldn’t afford her getting suspicious. He pulled the perfect bow apart and removed the top of the box. He tilted his head to the side. He didn’t understand what he was looking at.

Silk? “What is it?”

Rhea smiled. He could see her tongue tracing beneath her upper teeth. ‘Take it out first” she said coyly.

He picked it up like he’d pick something he didn’t want to at all. Like a dirty napkin.

The silk had lace straps. So both index fingers lifted it up and the silk unravelled. “Oh!” he said low.

“Do you like it?” she looked so impressed.

“You got me negligee” he stated and dropped it back in the box. He didn’t want to look at her, but he just couldn’t look away because this was crazy. She had-when exactly did she-

“Perfectly tailored. It’d fit you perfectly”.

He remained silent.

“Don’t you like it?” she sounded fucking disappointed.

“Well, you should know me. I don’t wear things like these” he said rather testy.

“Well I do, but you’ve never tried it. You don’t know if you’d like it” she said hopeful.

“You probably went through a lot to get this perfectly tailored” along with everything else he had in this place.

She bent her head down, raising her shoulders to hide her face. “There’s still more” she said laughing.

He pushed the negligee to the side. There was still more in the box. Stockings he guessed. Panty hose? And some sort of strappy belt thing with a little stretchy thing. Was that a scrunchie? A lace scrunchie?

“Do you want me to wear it?” he asked, suddenly realising.

“Would you?” she asked quietly.

“Uh-um…I’ll wear the dress, I don’t know-I’m not really comfortable wearing this thing” the lacy white strappy thing was confusing. Even holding it was confusing.

She laughed. “It’s a garter belt. You attach it to the stockings” she explained fondly.

“No. Not doing the belt or the stockings. No” he shook his head adamant. There were some things he wouldn’t do for freedom. And that was it right there.

“Okay” Rhea said compliant. “What about this?” she pulled the lace scrunchie. “You just wear this with your gown” she smirked as she picked it out from the box. “It’s …you’ve seen brides pull up their dresses and you’d see this beautiful article of fabric” her voice had that breathy tone, her pupils were huge. Following her mouth and tongue, how it kept moving, opening and closing weirdly. She was excited.

He did expect sex to happen, but now that it was unfolding before him…

“…it’d fit perfectly on your long legs” she looked down, eyes just focused on that part of his body.

He swallowed. “You want me to wear it now?”

“After dinner would be perfect. Unless you want to do it now” she grinned.

“After dinner”. She’d have eaten enough and would tire herself out immediately. That would be the perfect time.

“It’s scheduled then”.

\\\\\

Dinner was macaroni and cheese with shredded beef. He really couldn’t eat a lot because his stomach was churning. The nerves were a lot and he just couldn’t focus. Rhea was happy though. Must be a dream come true for her.

“Are you done?” that question just made it known that there was no more running.

She cleaned up and he went upstairs. He did try to stall, but he couldn’t. What was at risk was getting out of here. He was sure he remembered his dad’s number. He’d make the call and he’d get a key. Hopefully the right key and he’d be out of here.

When he entered the room, Rhea wasn’t in. The costume had been laid out on the bed like it was a romance movie. The belt was gone and it was just the garter. He took it to the toilet with him so he could change.

And she had been right. It was perfectly tailored to his boy type. It was a nice fit and it went all the way a little bit mid-thigh. As long as he didn’t bend he was safe. There was no bottoms under this. The garter was…it really didn’t feel all that bad. It felt normal. He thought it’d be scratchy.

He had to wash his face again and wet his hair a little just to see if he could rinse the nerves away. It was time.

With one final exhale he opened the door and stepped out. Rhea was already seated on the bed. Usual nightwear. A simple top with panties. How long did he spend in there? He held onto the hem to hide just how nerve-wracking this was.

He could feel her eyes taking in every inch of his body. How she was able to act like this was her first time seeing him or his body in any state of dress or undress all the time was really disturbing.

“Well, you look…” she trailed off, her eyes just boring into him. “…I honestly have no words. Forgive me” she laughed with a wave.

He sat beside her. Head down. He only made an affirmative noise and nodded.

Her black nails glittered in the room as her hands moved and traced his naked thigh. She feverishly pushed the hem higher to expose the white garter. “See. I told you it’d look good on you” he guessed her smile was meant to be happy, but she just looked mad.

Her fingers went under the belt and snaked higher. He wasn’t scared yet because it was familiar. She had touched him there not too long ago. He knew it’d go further than just surface level, but maybe by then he’d have calmed down.

Three of her fingers touched him there and as he opened his mouth to protest, maybe make an exclamation, she kissed him. Her tongue in his mouth, moaning in delight like she had just tasted something sweet. Her other hand guided the back of his head and they were going down. For him to be on her side, he had to get there himself. She had to be over him.

For now she was still on her side, her wrist still trapped by the belt, so it wasn’t like he could shift her weight. He just had to be patient. She removed her hand from the belt so she could use her other hands to pull the straps down from both shoulders.

And she finally got on top.

Since they didn’t start at the middle but at the edge, so when he shimmied up, he angled his body more to the right. She stopped kissing him and bit her lips playfully. Looking into his eyes like they were having a moment. And that was what made him look away. This was pretence. It was fake and with how she looked at him…that was what broke him.

“Look at me Dominik” she whispered, placing a hand on his cheek to direct his vision back on her. He blinked at her, already feeling his eyes glistening. He couldn’t look at her.

She gripped his jaw. “I’ve been waiting for this very moment for so long”.

Her acting like this was some beautiful moment between them made him very angry. He could be poetic and say sex was this beautiful and sacred thing between a couple, but he and Rhea weren’t one. She was a crazy woman who could kill him just like that. But that wouldn’t be the reason he’d stop.

He was already here. He had to keep going. She pulled the straps all the way down. Exposing his chest fully.

‘I can do this’ he thought to himself and shivered as she kissed his neck. Then moved to the side where his scent gland was, tonguing at it lewdly. His eyes squeezed shut tighter.

‘I can do this’ her other hand went down again and she touched his opening again. Not just on the surface. It was searching and determined. And it kept moving. It was just easy. There was no involuntary resistance and that did have him opening his eyes in shock. She seemed to be doing everything right.

She hiked the dress higher and the only thing covered now was his stomach. He exhaled trembly. Like he was going to cry. ‘I can do this’.

Gradually the sounds between them got wetter. Then her index finger touched something that made his leg twitch and toes curl. They came up on instinct, caging Rhea between him. She laughed perverse. “You like that, don’t you?”

“I can’t do this!” he exclaimed.

Rhea stopped, eyes going wide amazed and she removed her fingers.

“Dom?” she asked alert.

He closed his eyes again, a tear falling down the side of his face, hitting her pillow. He covered his chest.

“Dom” her voice was broken. “What’s wrong?” she got out from between his legs so he could curl in on himself and face away.

“Dom?” she knelt behind him, not touching him until he said so.

He bit his lip. He had one chance. Just one thing to do and he’d blown it. It just got too much for him.

“Are you okay?” she whispered.

He cleared his throat. “I’m not just ready” he admitted shamefully.

She looked devastated. “Why didn’t you say anything?!”

“I didn’t think…I just thought-I don’t know” he bemoaned.

She sighed. “Look, I’m sorry if you’re uncomfortable right now-“

“I’m not. I’m just overwhelmed” he murmured. “This is just moving too fast. We’ve only kissed before now. I’m just not-”

“Comfortable?” she asked disturbed.

“Not that just…” he turned to face her. “I’m okay with kissing. If we can continue with just that, what we’ve done before” he subtly pulled the straps up.

“And you’re sure?” she asked apprehensive.

“Yes I am” he said assuring.

She was still giving him that assessing look. He hoped that this wasn’t the end. He needed her in that satisfied state of sleep where she wouldn’t wake up. He could still salvage this despite him not doing the full deed. There were just some things that one couldn’t fake. That intense look and him enjoying the acts she was performing was just too much.

“If it gets too much. Just say so, okay?”

He nodded.

Rhea laid comfortably on his side of the bed. She placed a gentle palm on his cheek and they kissed again. Going slow and gentle. The mood now was different now. Calm. Since she didn’t have that much room with her other hand, she couldn’t touch him. He didn’t touch her too.

“Just like what we’ve done before, right?” she said against the lips.

“Hmm” he couldn’t really speak because she was sucking on the corner of his mouth and pressed close. “I can work with that” she said feverishly and slotted her leg between his. He yelped.

“This okay?” she moved her knee up.

“Yeah” he agreed, moving along with her leg. It wasn’t so bad. She kissed him again and he kissed back.

Then she moved his leg in-between hers. God, her panties were drenched. And he was sure between his legs had soaked her entire knee and fluids were going each and every way.

Her hand went to his waist, leaving his face, but this time he didn’t shy away from eye contact. She held his lower back tight as she kissed him, then buried her face in his scent gland as they rutted against the other.

It wasn’t what either of them wanted, but it’d do.

Now though…

“I love you so much”.

“I know” he whispered.

/////

He didn’t remember what really happened after the end. Mostly because he was tired. Rhea must have changed and cleaned up. He heard water running in the toilet, so she might have washed up. Now he was awake. It was still dark out. So very early morning. She was on her stomach, head facing the other way. Breathing heavily.

He sat up. It was now or never. He wasn’t sure Rhea even locked the door. When he moved, she didn’t stir. Her pattern didn’t change. He touched the drawer and pulled ever so slowly with one finger. It gave lightly.

He stood up, trying to control his pounding heart.

This was the moment where everything could go very wrong. He put a hand in and touched the phone. Now was the hard part. Placing Rhea’s hand on it. He prayed this was on silent. He pressed the power button. It hadn’t been switched off. Battery percentage ninety-three. She even charged it here. He didn’t need to hold it over her face. Thank goodness. He needed her eyes open for that.

He got back in bed. Rhea had a hand pressed down. He just needed her index finger to press against it. She could wake up. If she did, it would be a fight. His heart slowed down as he laid on his side. He subtly took her wrist.

‘Don’t wake up’ he prayed.

He placed her hand down on it. She stirred a bit, but didn’t wake up. She turned to him instead. Still asleep. And due to that change in position, she put weight on her wrist and her phone opened. He almost shrieked. It was open and his heart picked up again. He got off immediately. It was open. He went to her phone. Then he began to type aimlessly. He didn’t consider the sound. Luck was on his side. It had been on silent.

He turned towards the door and tiptoed. He really did need slippers. He prayed she didn’t lock it due to her own horniness. It happened and she had shown signs she was one of those. He placed his hand on the doorknob and gave it a small press. He even still stood on his toes, like doing that would stop it from creaking.

The door opened and he released a slow breath. He looked over his shoulder and Rhea still laid there. He sort of expected her eyes to open and be glowing before she launched herself at him. He stepped out, placing the phone in his other hand and holding the other doorknob so the bolt wouldn’t shift before the door shut.

He pulled it close and waited to hear it shift back into place. He touched the screen at the last minute so it wouldn’t go off. He made sure to still be on his toes. This was her house, so if he stepped somewhere he wasn’t meant to, she would wake up.

He walked all the way downstairs. He had been too petrified to even look for a key. He’d settle on just making a call and waiting. Instead of calling his dad, he’d call the police first. Then his dad.

He stood in the kitchen, just before the sink as he typed the number in. He was still trying to recite his dad’s number that he had memorised through song.

“6312…no 6215. That’s it” he turned to the counter.

He pressed her keypad.

There was a sound like a “btz!” behind him. That sound accompanied electricity. Before he could turn, there was an explosion in the middle of his spine that travelled to the base of his skull and the end of his spine. It went all the way to his elbows and his knees.

The phone fell from his hand and he convulsed. His limbs shook out of his control. He didn’t have the power to scream as he went down. His chin caught the edge of the counter as he went down. He bit his tongue on impact. He was on his back, looking up at the ceiling, his body still going through aftershock. He twitched like crazy.

He heard the sound again.

He was still trying to clear his vision, but it was all over the place. He had no idea what happened. And just like that, he was being pulled by his hair. He didn’t protest, couldn’t even talk. Blood just went down his chin as he fell back down. This time harder.

His vision got worse as the back of his head hit the hardwood floor. As did his back. He coughed weakly. A wheeze escaping from his aching ribs. It was a battle turning on his side and trying to crawl away. He couldn’t lift himself on his hands and knees. He coughed blood out again, his breath hoarse as he tried moving his legs to just kick himself away.

He didn’t hear any footsteps. And suddenly he was getting kicked just below the ribs and he went down. He couldn’t protect himself anymore. He just laid there in a helpless heap.

Rhea squeezed the stick she held, breathing harshly through her teeth. She looked livid. Rabid, but Dom couldn’t tell.

“Hmmm!” she growled, then flung her hand, throwing the stick in the process. With a growl, she gripped onto his hair and pulled. The veins bulged in her arm as she pulled. Dom wasn’t light in any way, and now that he was almost unconscious, he was like a log of wood.

She dragged him all the way to the door, dropping his head down carelessly. She got the key from the back of her shorts. She had gotten dressed once she woke up alone. And her phone had been gone. He really did it.

She didn’t want to believe it. She had been hopeful that he had changed, but…

She opened the door harshly, then pulled him by his hair, but not up. She pulled forward. Dom fell down the steps. She used her foot to do the rest. Dom went all the way down and it didn’t sound pretty. She watched Dom hit a wall, the wide part of the steps where one could stop. Dom fell back and rolled all the way down. Till the very last step.

There wasn’t any more noise. No wheezing, no moaning.

She crossed the divide and slammed the door shut.

Chapter Text

The alarm bounced all over the four walls of the room as it beeped. A groan accompanied the noise, then a sigh. A hand searched blindly on the nightstand to turn the alarm clock off. The room became silent. There was the shuffle of sheets and another hand came out from under the covers and searched the left side of the bed. It was empty and cold.

Odd. He thought he’d come home with someone. Or maybe it was a very strange, but very vivid dream.

He threw the covers off himself.

“I really need to get laid” and he kicked his legs off his bed, sat up and rubbed his face so vertigo wouldn’t kick his ass. After counting down to a minute he stood up and made his way to the bathroom. Time to get ready for the day and head to work.

They said do what you loved and you’d never work a day in your life, right? Wrong.

That was some bullshit. The person who said that mustn’t have had a job like his. He wouldn’t say that he had been naïve and deluded himself with the hope of success. That it’d just happen fast as he moved and finished the academy.

He didn’t think he’d get promoted to homicide just like that. He’d thought he’d be judged by his hard work and dedication. Graduating at the top of the academy just for what?

He did his morning routine and got dressed in uniform. He’d get in his car and drive to work, but before he did that, he’d make a stop to pick up the morning order of pastries. He hated the smell of donuts, but he’d picked it up too much to the point that he didn’t feel the urge to vomit.

He parked and took the still warm box before making his way into the station. He could say that his hopes died when he actually got here. Everyone always had high hopes when they got up and moved to the States or maybe anywhere else. He hadn’t been anywhere else.

That American dream.

He moved by himself over here. That was already hard enough as it was, having to navigate through this system he wasn’t familiar with, then dealing with that late-night loneliness and the crushing doubt that he had made a mistake. But every day he woke up the next morning fighting. He persevered.

And in his corner, he had found someone here. Not in a romantic sense though. They had put in a good word and here he was.

Seeing your dream turn into a nightmare before your very eyes was heart-wrenching. It was like someone took off some blindfold or the rose-tinted glasses to show him what exactly his reality was like. He wouldn’t just get to homicide. He wasn’t sure he’d get anything at all just by being a dutiful cop. He wouldn’t get anything at all.

First thing he noticed was the hierarchy.

When he’d worked back home, well he’d worked at a gym and took classes. He never did notice segregation or position discrimination due to gender. Maybe it was an official thing.

Omegas in the workplace, the jobs handed out were…insulting. Morning donut runs, afternoon food runs, desk jobs, traffic cops, and crossing guards, always at schools and close to libraries. For the children and the elderly’s protection. Then there was patrol. Omegas who go lucky to be given patrol had to be “accompanied” by an Alpha or a Beta.

He didn’t know if he could call it a coincidence or targeted. The Chief could be just doing what he was taught. The mindset he was raised with. It didn’t excuse anything really. It was awful. He walked into the common area and placed the box on the table, opening it so the scent would attract the hungry pack of wolves. He walked to the coffee maker so he could pour himself a mug. It’s been the norm since he started working here. Needing caffeine to survive. Who would have thought?

“Morning JD” a blonde walked into the room.

“Good morning Elton’’ he didn’t have time for his enthusiasm this morning. His Omega colleagues really irritated him. Being okay with the blatant disrespect here. He was lucky to get patrol. But his partner was…annoying. He’d take Elton with him because he liked to talk. Not that he liked to talk with others.

He was like a parasite. No, a leach. But he had sympathy for him. Both of them had similar journeys. They were here almost at the same time, Elton earlier by a few months. What differentiated them was Elton seemed to embrace this or was just plain oblivious to this. Either way, it irritated him.

He eyed the contents of the box before he selected his request. It was a whole group chat that everyone would give their orders and he’d have to collate. And it continued in rotation. This was the only time he really showed up directly at the station. Other times he was picked up by his partner for patrol. But not at his place though. He didn’t want that guy knowing where he was.

“I guess I’m next” Elton told him as he chewed on his scone.

“Yeah”.

He watched silently from the corner as they trooped in one after the other. Taking what they had asked for. Some came to where he stood to pour themselves a cup of coffee, others who were lucky brought theirs from wherever they bought it.

He browsed through his phone waiting for Shaun. The TV came on, but it was just background noise. He wondered if he could drive today. He could just go there. Would take his order along. He was sure he had gotten a few napkins from them.

“Seriously?!” someone exclaimed.

He looked up.

“Not one plain donut”.

“Oh! Rhea’s back” Elton said from his side. He didn’t drink coffee. Always brought tea in a thermos that he’d always drink before he went to the front desk. When he did the run, they’d drink side by side and watch the others scarf down pastries, but who was this chick?

“Who got this? Who did the snack run?” she sounded annoyed. Irritated. Why so early in the morning?

“I did” he answered.

She turned to him. Their eyes met and it was calculating. Looking at him like he was foreign, then it changed to nonchalance. “Are you new here?”

“Sort of” he’d never seen her around.

“You did the snack run and couldn’t pick a plain donut?” she said condescendingly. “Is that hard for you to comprehend?”

“Next time, you can get it yourself. Seeing that it isn’t my job to get you junk food’ he said snarky.

“Okay, what exactly do you do around here that is so hard?” she asked with a cruel smile.

“For someone who just got here getting mad over a lack of bread with a hole in it that wasn’t asked for-“ he had gone over the list twice. “You could have just gotten it yourself”.

“Since you’re new, maybe now you know to pick one up when you do just like everyone else…who even are you?”

“Jordan. Jordan Devlin”.

“Jordan. Yes. With that attitude, you’ll be a real cop in no time” She looked into the box and took a donut covered with sugar. As she bit into it he saw the jelly pour out, staining her lips.

The door opened. The three occupants turned. “See that you’re back from vacation” the guy stated.

“Yeah. Missed you” and she gave him a side hug. “Seemed like I missed a lot” she made a very obvious gesture with her shoulder towards them.

“New recruits” he’d seen Damian around, but not a lot. Damian didn’t do the types of things the rest of them did. Sitting inside or at a desk, booking criminals, and doing questioning. He wasn’t helping old women cross the street or waiting for children to finish school then help them cross the street. Guys like Damian did what he longed to do. The streets were his office.

He was envious but also motivated. Inspired.

“Let’s get out of here. Don’t we have work today? I’m sure I missed a lot” she turned her back towards them and walked out of the room. Damian gave an acknowledging look towards the two of them. He didn’t even look in the box. Just took one and bit into it. Damian looked at him before leaving to follow his partner.

“Well, you’re not fully integrated in this big family unless you’ve met everyone. And you’ve met Rhea. Never taken a day off, but cashed in all her vacation days. Very smart actually. I should do that” he said thoughtful.

“If she just came back from vacation shouldn’t she be relaxed?” he said dryly. He didn’t want the coffee anymore. He could give it to Shaun.

“That’s just Rhea for you. She’s always in a mood. Most times…just like you saw. Just don’t engage and steer clear of her. Arguing with your superior won’t get you anywhere”.

“And you continue to let them walk over you” he said with distaste.

“And now that you argued with her, what’s going to happen? You know she’s a detective”.

“Should have noticed since she wasn’t wearing the standard uniform” he said to himself. She was dressed corporate.

“I like you Jordan. Just leave it alone” he was done with his tea.

He got a napkin and placed the chocolate donut on it. He’d drink the rest of the coffee. Time to start the day.

\\\\\

Rhea cleaned her lips and tossed the napkin in the trash. She snorted as she saw it enter the can successfully. When she turned back Damian was looking at her funnily.

“What?” she questioned.

“Nothing. Just trying to understand”.

“Understand what?” she folded her arms, even crossed her legs, claiming his workspace as a chair.

“How was it? Vacation?” he asked warmly.

“It was good. The family says hi” she gave a dismissive wave. “What do we have today?”

“Yeah. Not sure that you heard the news down under. The Mysterio case” he handed her a file.

She opened and studied it. “Went missing just like that on his birthday?” she didn’t look up.

“Not the birthday gift he was expecting that I can say”.

She gave him a dry look. She’d told him to stop doing that. “Any leads?”

“None so far. But I did schedule an interview with his parents. Ready to go?”

She closed the file. “No better time to get back into it than now. Let’s do this”.

“It’s great to have you back” he stood up.

“Yeah I know” she stood up.

Back to work.

Chapter Text

She removed her helmet as they stopped, taking in the grand mansion before her.

Damian opened the door of his car. “I really think you should have driven with me. So I could brief you about this case. I doubt you actually read everything in under ten minutes” he said exasperated, but also fond.

“I haven’t ridden my bike for a long time” she crossed her legs over so she could come down.

“Didn’t you ride it to work?” he queried.

“Well, instead of questioning me, brief me before we get to the front door” she said as they made their way up the cobblestone path.

Soon they were at the door, and he pushed the doorbell. The tone was soothing. Like what would go on before an announcement.

“Persistent couple of folks” Damian said under his breath, his eyes trained on the doorbell.

“Their son is missing. Their oldest son. I understand’ she murmured. “Did they come by every day?”

“They did. Called all the time. I get it, but it’s not in my power to make things happen faster, and they don’t get that”.

“The typical parents” she said with an eye roll.

The door clicked from the other side and it opened. It presented them a younger girl.

“Good morning Ms. Mysterio” Damian said politely. “Are your parents home?”

And they were seated on the couch, opposite the very visibly distraught couple.

“This is my partner. Detective Ripley” he introduced her.

She stretched her lips nicely. “Mr. and Mrs. Mysterio. I understand you need your answers, but there is only so much we can do. Especially with the evidence-“

“What evidence?” Angie asked a bit aggressive. “Dom has been missing for nearly a month and we haven’t gotten anything”.

Rhea nodded, closing her eyes, and when she opened them and looked at Damian.

“Well, some things have come to light concerning the case” Damian took over.

“Is he dead?” Rey asked gravely.

“No” Damian answered in that way that gave nothing away. Saying something, but being uncertain because there was nothing ruling out that possibility.

“We have talked before and when we did all that we ruled out a robbery. Everything was intact. His wallet was still in the car. The door wasn’t locked, so there was every possibility of stealing the car because the keys were in the ignition. Dominik got out of the car and walked into the restaurant. He didn’t go back to the car”.

“So was he kidnapped? You didn’t rule that out. You haven’t done so yet” Rey said passionate.

“Dominik is still missing yes, but it wouldn’t be a kidnapping if Dom went willingly.

“WHAT?!” Angie squawked.

Rey was shocked. “What do you mean went willingly?” Rey interrogated.

“Who was here? At the time of the party?” Rhea asked, crossing her legs.

“It was just for family and friends” he replied.

“And Dom’s friends too? Close friends?”

“Yes. They were all here.  But I don’t-“

“And Dom, you said he was in a relationship. Were they here?”

Angie furrowed her brows, disturbed.

“Yes. Raquel. A very nice girl. I don’t understand what you’re implying” she was confused and her voice cracked.

“So out of his friends, who wasn’t here? Friends and family included” Damian continued unbothered.

“I-uh-um…”

“Who was Seth to Dom?”

“You mean who Seth is to Dom” Rey corrected sternly. “He’s a friend to the family. He and Dom are very close friends. Why is that important?”

“That exact night that Dominik left, he went to get pizza. It was actually a pickup. And the receipt sent to him on his phone had been from Seth”.

“So Seth bought him pizza on his birthday. How is that a bad thing?” Angie was baffled.

“You’re right. It wouldn’t be a bad thing if he bought pizza for a family friend. Someone he saw as a little brother or maybe a son. And it would make even more sense if Dominik were to run into someone he knew once he had picked up a birthday gift. Let’s say Seth. A family friend. Like a father figure. He wouldn’t feel threatened to go with him”.

“…uh-what?” Rey whispered.

“We did look through Seth’s and Dom’s messages. And the relationship was more than a friendly relationship”.

“No” Angie shook her head with a crooked smile. Maybe trying to deny the very obvious evidence that they had been asking for. There really wasn’t winning in this profession.

“Would you like to see the records?” Damian brought them along. They were on his lap.

They mimicked the other’s expression.

‘The text messages and pictures show that their relationship was more of a sexual nature” Rhea supplied.

Both of Angie’s hands came up, covering her nose and mouth as she just stared. Releasing a deep exhale, just looking at them with disbelief.

Rey shook his head. “Seth would…Seth would never…and Dom isn’t-he has Raquel”.

Damian exhaled. “There seems to be things you weren’t privy to concerning your son. And I understand some things you might find out you won’t like. But in this investigation, Seth is a person of interest”.

“So wait. What happens now? Did Seth kid-“ Rey groaned. “Did Dom go with him?”

“That’s what we will find out” Damian answered as he and Rhea stood up. “You have my number. If there is any further progress, you will be the first to know” he told the couple.

“And please do not try to obstruct the process” Rhea advised. “We do know what we’re doing and if there’s a possibility, Dom will come back home”.

The father narrowed his eyes at her, but it was best to be truthful about things like these instead of feeding false hope. In the end, they’d still be the enemies. “We’ll handle Seth”.

“Thank you for coming by detectives”.

Damian nodded at him before they were led out.

“So we’re heading to his place now?” she asked as they made their way down.

“I did already talk to a lot of people when you were away. Thank you for that. For leaving all that to me” he said dryly.

She grinned. “I’m sure you did all that and handled it well. Didn’t intimidate them too much right?”

“Seth was a cocky motherfucker who explained my job to me. We’ll just have to bring him in for questioning. That’s if Mysterio senior doesn’t talk to him and make him panic”.

“You did tell him not to skip town right?”

“He assured me before I even said so” he scoffed.

“So what do you think?”

“Everything points to him” Damian said as they stopped in front of his car. “One might have wanted to end it, Dom goes he’ll tell his parents, maybe an altercation and Dom’s bones are in a dump somewhere” he narrated.

She hummed. “We should talk to him first”.

“He was the only one not there. We just need a confession. To me this case is closed, but if you want to take the long way, go ahead”.

“I wonder who is more impatient. You or me” and she walked to her bike.

“It depends sometimes. I just can’t stand stupid people” and he opened his car door.

The next thing was bringing Seth in for questioning, and he did come willingly that same day. Like someone who had nothing to hide. Seemed Rey was still trying to process everything. That cocky smile was the first thing she saw before taking him in, and she had sympathy for everything Damian had gone through when she was away.

“Would you like a glass of water? Coffee?” she asked as she sat before him. To Damian, he was already done with this, so she was here alone. She hoped he wouldn’t try using his vacation time now. This was getting even for everything he had gone through. Seth wasn’t guilty…yet, so she would treat him with respect. No reason this couldn’t be friendly.

“No thank you” he politely declined.

More for her. “You’ve talked to my partner previously” she stated.

“Yes. Damian, if I remember”.

“So you’re aware that a friend of yours, Dominik Mysterio, is missing. He went missing on the night of his birthday”.

“Yes” he answered.

“And on that night, where were you? There was a party, wasn’t there?”

“Yes there was. But I didn’t go. I had work”.

“So you were invited?”

“Yes, I was” he smiled.

“And what was your relationship with Dominik Mysterio? What was it like?”

“Friends. I was friends with his dad. We saw each other around the gym and his house because I visited. We exchanged numbers and became friends”.

“Huh” was all she said. “So you two got together privately? Away from the gym and his parents’ house?” she asked calmly.

He looked at her perplexed.

“I mean you were friends, so you might have gone out together where his parents would not get in the way” she explained.

“When you put it like that yes. We did hang out” his smile came back, but not as bright. Maybe realising that this was deeper than just a talk.

Good.

“Were you just friends?” her smile got wider.

“Yes we-“

“I mean, I’m an Alpha. Not that I don’t believe that Alphas and Omegas can’t be just friends, but it is hard. Dom was good-looking, so I would understand”.

“Well that’s quite ignorant of you” he said snidely. “And Dom had a girlfriend. So what exactly are you trying to say?”

“I was just trying to know the nature of your relationship with Dominik. His family needs answers, and I do too”.

“Dominik…” he stressed. “I knew his dad. It’s solely friendship. He was like family”.

Rhea smiled and turned the file upside-down before pushing it towards him. “Would you open that for me? And tell me what you see?”

Seth just looked at her, trying to study her. She leaned back, showing that she was relaxed. There was no need for him to be suspicious. She watched as his fingers touched the plastic cover and pushed it open.

Her eyes glinted as he looked at the documented evidence that had been collected and printed out. And that particular piece of paper had a very explicit picture, followed by text of the same nature.

“That definitely isn’t something that I would tell someone I saw as family” she didn’t sound mocking, but she couldn’t stop smiling.

He closed the file immediately. “You looked through my phone? Planted some device?!” he demanded.

“We actually looked through Dom’s phone and saw that. You know, for this, most people use devices like Snapchat-“

“So what? This doesn’t prove anything. I didn’t do anything to Dom-“

“Easy Seth. I never said you did. We’re just talking here” she eased, but she really wasn’t trying to. She needed answers.

He was uncomfortable. She knew the hot seat had gotten too hot and he wanted out. Not like she was cornering him. There was no warrant yet. There was nothing keeping him here.

“You can’t keep me here just because of…there isn’t any proof” he stood up.

“You’re right. Nothing is keeping you here. Nothing is stopping you from leaving” she looked up at him and smiled before reaching for her cup of coffee.

Seth pushed his chair back and rounded the table. “Oh!” she called after a sip. “Remember what you told my partner you wouldn’t do, don’t do it” she smiled into her cup.

“If you want to reach me, you’ll have to go through my lawyers”.

With the creak of the door, she knew that she was alone.

Her tongue traced her teeth as she kicked her feet onto the table.

/////

That questioning was a catalyst of sorts, and a lot of things must have happened. That missing person’s case which was just a little thing that people didn’t care about became a hashtag. #whathappenedtodom?

The case already had media coverage, seeing as Rey has appeared on TV many times to spread the word.

So the family was gathering a lot of press. A lot of journalists must have had eyes on them and were following the story since a body hadn’t turned up. And as an extension maybe, Seth was involved. And there had been a video of him leaving the station.

And a video of Seth being escorted to the station after a search warrant had been issued on his property. So yes. There was a lot of attention they didn’t need on their case. A lot of internet detectives now coming up with their theories, the Mysterios under the judgmental and scrutinizing eyes of the public, which just made them want more answers. And now Seth was scheduled to issue a public statement.

Like he was Bill Clinton.

Jordan scoffed. He couldn’t believe it.

“What?” Elton asked, lazy blue eyes focusing on his cheek. It was time to head up, but there was a whole segment that got his attention. The Mysterio case. He had seen it here and there, but never really gave it a second thought. The detectives were on it, but now that it was out in the open, and people were saying things like Dom was dead and his body was burned.

Other crazy things like Dom being kidnapped and was being held for ransom seeing as he was an eligible hostage because of his father’s money.

But due to online detectives, there had been a link between Dom and Seth, who was now the perpetrator. All this via past Instagram posts. And now people were saying it was a love story gone sour, and Dom had met his unfortunate end.

Quite usual.

A crime of passion.

So bloggers were talking, news outlets, influencers, all with their own theories, clamouring for justice. But something didn’t just feel right, and he wanted to say it. He wanted to be part of the conversation.

“Just feels odd. The whole thing” he murmured.

“There is probable cause”.

“It just feels a bit obvious. And I am one of the few that wants to hear what he wants to say”.

“So you think there’s more?” now Elton was alert.

“Well, yes. Nothing is really as it is unless it is”.

Elton didn’t say much. Must be convinced and okay with the way things had progressed. It just seemed too easy.

“Who’s on this case anyway?”

“Okay, JD. I’ll stop you there!” he hissed harshly. It made JD raise both brows in question. “I know you’re new here. We both are, but just friendly advice, you should be patient and not push or reach higher. Like way out of your way”.

“What do you mean?” he was way confused.

He wasn’t sure he’d ever seen a very grave expression on his face.

“Here, it’s kind of an unspoken rule that it’s to each their own. You don’t mess with what’s for someone else. You aren’t a detective. It’s not your case. Leave it alone”.

“Speaking from experience?” Jordan asked after a while.

Elton only closed his eyes and stood up. “You got a car, I’m ready to leave. Can we do so?”

“Yeah, before I get accosted just for trying to leave” he stood with him.

“Let me take some coffee for dinner tonight’ Elton said to him as he walked to the door.

“There’s no way that’s healthy’ Jordan shook his head. Elton skipped towards him with a smile, and they made their way out through the front.

“You will let it go, right?” Elton asked, taking his eyes to the side, then looking away quickly, rolling his eyes in the process.

Jordan caught it though. He turned his neck to the side to look. ‘I thought you liked Drew. What changed?” he elbowed him.

“I wasn't looking at Drew” he muttered.

“So, someone else caught your eye? Maybe the Chief instead?” he cackled.

Elton just rolled his eyes.

“And speaking of Chief, thank you Elton. I will not be letting it go. Instead, I’ll be talking to him concerning my thoughts on this case”.

“Jordan” he sighed.

Said Omega only smiled. “Least he can do is say no. What’s the worst that can happen?”

“Don’t say I didn’t warn you”.

“Stop sounding so ominous. Okay, since I’m in a good mood, you can come over for dinner”.

He smiled, but it didn’t reach his eyes. He didn’t decline the invitation though.

Elton looked to the side one more time before they both exited.

Chapter Text

“The truth about the relationship between me and Dominik Mysterio is more complex than it seems” Seth said to the popular daytime talk show. The DING DONG HELLO SHOW with the host Bayley. It had been live and had aired at 8:30a.m.

“So how was the relationship between you and Dominik Mysterio?” Bayley questioned.

“It was a sexual relationship that I’ll admit. How all this started, Dominik was the one to start it” he answered.

Bayley had to be unbiased, cool and stoic. But when she heard that, she couldn’t hide the sudden look of surprise. Her eyes widening and her eyebrows going up. She schooled her features immediately.

“It’s embarrassing to admit, but that’s the truth. I met Dominik when he was twenty-two. He’s a good kid and a friendship started between us. I know since I’m older I should have stopped certain things that I saw-“

“What do you mean certain things?” she asked curiously.

“Well you know when someone is interested. There were subtle touches, subtle looks and yes I did play along. He’s younger, he’s attractive and it was sort of an ego boost. I’m friends with his dad, he isn’t someone I’d approach on a normal day because of that, but he was persistent and things just happened”.

“You said you were friends with his father. You were already good enough to be friends with the family, but not more?”

“Dominik told me that his dad would never agree to a relationship with me. And he went ahead to date his girlfriend. Raquel”.

“And when Dominik got with his girlfriend, did the two of you stop your…relationship?”

“I did want to stop it, but Dominik told me it was just for appearances. So his parents would get off his case”.

“Wow” Bayley blinked perplexed.           

“And now I’m under scrutiny from the public and being vilified when they don’t know the whole story. I just had to come here to just set the story straight. I didn’t do anything to Dom. There is no crime of passion because it wasn’t a real relationship. It was a sexual relationship initiated by Dom himself. Now that it’s all out there, I know it might shock a lot of people, but no one really knows him. Especially the public. Now that they all know, maybe everyone will actually sit and think. Maybe reconsider before they actually judge someone they don’t know”.

“Heck, maybe I don’t even know Dom all that well. If he could do all that, who knew what else he did. Who knows what he might have been involved in?”

And like that Seth spun a web.

There was a whole division of Dom’s supporters. It just took three hours for everything to go sideways. With that story, with those implicating words, Seth was gaining quite the support.

And other shows were talking about it. The K.O show, A moment of Bliss and MIZ TV. Now there was an outcry for both sides of the story. Something that there hadn’t when this came out. Seth played the victim card well and those hosts wanted him as soon as possible.

The division was massive. The hashtag was old news now. It was #twosidestothestory.

‘Dom wasn’t all that innocent. I have to agree with Seth. He must have gotten himself into something really shady’.

‘Two Alphas. He must be really desperate for it’.

‘Feel really bad for his parents having to find out all this on national television’.

‘Two sides to the story, but Dominik isn’t here to give his side’.

‘Just an excuse to exercise Alpha hate on Omegas. Where did all his support go? Now that they found out he had sex. #fakelove’.

It was all bullshit.

/////

JD opened his eyes with a groan and a stretch. There was an accompanying groan and it had him freezing up. A hand came to rest on his naked waist. He looked over his shoulder so he could look at who he had brought back home.

“You were amazing last night” Elton grinned before turning his head to the other side so he could catch a few more minutes of sleep. He was just as naked as he was. Jordan yawned and sat up.

“Why didn’t you wear the pyjamas I left out for you?”

“I usually sleep nude” he said into the pillow, his voice muffled.

Well at least he got laid.

Elton was the one who was doing the pastry run today. Since they slept at his house, it would just be easier to do everything together. He had a car and it’d be pointless to let him go by himself. So he drove Elton to the bakery and waited in his car. He had heard it on the radio on the way and now that he had stopped and decided to use his phone.

He didn’t know why he thought social media would be any better. It was a huge mess.

“I’m back!” Elton announced as he opened the door.

“Welcome back” he dropped his phone between them. In that place meant for drinks. He shouldn’t have done that because Elton had gotten them coffee. Well it could be. Elton preferred tea.

“Thanks” he took a sip before he started the engine.

“Not in uniform today?” Elton gestured to his getup.

“I’ll change at work” he said simply.

“All of a sudden?”

“You don’t like it?”

He wasn’t dressed all that different compared to his uniform. Usual trousers, but he was wearing his date shirt. It was snug. The material of bandage dresses. It showed that you were there to have a good time, but with the bounce of his breasts also told that he was there to party. It packed everything up, but still left a little room for flirtation. And if he took his jacket off, his back was bare and only had a thin strap for modesty.

“What are you planning?”

“It’s a secret” he winked before pulling out if the parking lot.

Getting to work, Elton dropped the box and went to the desk as he always did. He should do the same. Go and get changed and go on patrol, but not today. He’d be making a detour.

He knocked on the door to the office of the Chief. “Enter” he heard.

He opened the door, lowering his shoulders to show that he was calm. He wasn’t really nervous, but with what he was about to do, he only had one shot. He couldn’t fuck it up. That was why he wasn’t wearing anything under his shirt.

He walked in.

Roman fucking Reigns. The biggest piece of crap to ever live. The hugest bigot he’d had the displeasure of meeting. He wasn’t the one that would go out of the way to befriend his boss. He didn’t want to be friends with him. They really hadn’t had any encounters so he hadn’t had any personal conversations with him, but with the way he ran the place, he knew what he was all about.

A closeted toxic masculine Alpha, a misogynist, filled with prejudice and stereotypes.

“Are you okay Jordan?”

“Yes I am” he smiled. He approached the desk. “There’s a problem that I wanted to discuss with you” as he stopped, he bent down a bit. The one time he was happy about his stature. He didn’t care if he was being obvious. He was sure he was meant to be obvious.

“What is it about?” he saw his eyes follow as he switched positions. From leaning lower to standing straight, but he was trying to act like he wasn’t staring.

“The Dominik Mysterio case” he answered, the right hand of his jacket fell off his shoulder, stopping just above his elbow. He pulled it back up.

“And what is it about the Dominik Mysterio case?”

Jordan smiled. Now playing with his jacket ‘idly’. He opened the flap and then closed it. Continuously. The collar brushing against his very obvious nipples. “I noticed some anomalies and I would like to pursue it”.

Roman hissed. “Now Jordan, you know I can’t do that”.

“Why?” he put a hand on his waist, opening the jacket and just accentuating his chest, making it obvious that he was chesting out.

“We already have a team on it. And I’m sure they wouldn’t take too lightly on you trying to get in on their case”.

He hummed. “Then let me have my own secret side case, where I only report to you” he suggested.

“That wouldn’t really make things better” as he said that with a smile and then looked down bashful. Jordan was leering at him as he leaned down, using his arms to support himself as he went lower. Giving Roman a view of everything. Like it was a game.

“You’re the chief. You should know something isn’t right. It’s a bit too gone girl”.

“Don’t you think that you’re a bit too attached to this case?”

“Because I’m an Omega?” he asked the obvious question because it was an obvious answer he was sure Roman was going to give. It just couldn’t be because he wanted to be a detective and show he could crack this case.

“Okay” he sighed. “I’ll give you a trial run”.

He grinned victorious. It was a win for his girls.

He dashed out the office and as he turned a corner, he was just lucky to see his partner. He’d never been so happy to see Shaun in that moment. He wanted to hug and kiss him. He’d like that a lot. He was smiling that megawatt smile.

“Hey” he stopped in front of him and held his wrists.

“Well good morning to you Jordan. What’s with the-“

“We’re going somewhere now” he was tugging him.

“Don’t you want to change f-“

“No time” he pulled him along. There really wasn’t any time to waste.

\\\\\

Rhea knocked the door and waited. Lazy smile on her lips. It was a weird couple of days. Seth being paraded as a victim. It was the whole, “I hear you, I understand what you all are saying, but…”

The part that really irritated her was him going, “I’m a man, and an Alpha at that. He’s an Omega. Only people who have been with Omegas would understand. Forgive me for being a victim to my baser instincts. I just couldn’t resist”.

Now Dom was depicted as a “questionable” Omega. A philanderer, which was just a nice way of putting what she actually saw. And he had issued a restraining order against the Mysterios from what Rey had told her. Just a call would have police at their doorstep.

For someone who was saying he was sorry, he was a victim, he sure had a lot of time to go from show to show. And podcasts. She removed her air pods quickly and pocketed it just before the door fully opened.

“Raquel Rodriguez?” she asked.

“Another one?” she replied with a sigh. “Just how many times?”

“I’m sure you’ve talked to my partner, but I wasn’t around then” she didn’t even have to show the badge. She just already knew.

“I’ve said everything to your partners. Isn’t that enough?”

She gave her a questioning look. “Well that was before you deleted all your social handles. May I ask why?”

“Like I told your partner earlier today, I had to because a lot of people were reaching out to me, wanting me to appear here and there to talk about Dom. It created unnecessary traffic and it gave me too much attention I didn’t need” she folded her hands.

“Damian was here?” she blurted out.

“I don’t remember his name” she said dismissive.

“Well you can see how that will gain attention. It is a bit suspicious”.

“Oh, I know it is” she said sarcastic.

Her upper lip twitched. “Some might say you found out what Dom was doing with Seth and you got mad. No judgment there if you did”.

“I was there during the night of the party and I slept over. Things got strained when Dom didn’t answer anyone’s calls. I stayed there to support his family”.

“You didn’t have to be there for something to happen, if it were to happen though” she said sceptical.

“And I’m telling you I didn’t know what Dom got up to till a few days ago. The only one who wasn’t at the party was Seth. When we started this, Dom said he started talking to me to get his parents off his back and I thought…” she cleared her throat. “Why don’t you go talk to his real lover then?”

Rhea smiled. “Thank you for your time Ms. Rodriguez, and hopefully we won’t be meeting again”.

“Trust me, I don’t want to” she said under her breath before she closed the door.

It was really peculiar. Damian would have told her if he was coming to question Raquel. They would have come together. She walked back to the elevators and once she was in she leaned back against the rail so she could think. Seth had probable cause against him. Jealous lover who didn’t want to let go. And Raquel now, all of a sudden deletes her social media, maybe to hide something. She might have found out what was happening between Dom and Seth. And maybe orchestrated a kidnapping, maybe a murder. And now she was trying to pin that on Seth.

Her fingers stretched and they cracked on the rail. At least that was the angle she was going for until this mystery detective had showed up and maybe disproved everything.

“FUCK!!!” she screamed, throwing her head all the way back to release her anger and frustration.

\\\\\

Hearing Seth talk was just the fakest thing ever. This was just an excuse for a pity party. He hadn’t had the chance to talk to Seth yet, but he wasn’t looking at a psychopath, an idiot that was for sure, but not a psychopath. Just a desperate man looking for who to blame, and who better than someone that wasn’t here.

He did talk to Raquel, but her alibi checked out. Slept in Dominik’s room which his parent’s confirmed.

The DING DONG HELLO SHOW didn’t stop. It was being replayed on every news outlet, even on Instagram it had become countless reels. This was a whole mess and he’d need to make sense of it because all he had now was Seth.

The whole day driving around listening to Shaun talk his ear off and he didn’t accomplish anything. So he needed to talk to Seth and maybe get his alibi. With him talking about his weaknesses, it wouldn’t be so hard.

He’d just continue watching the news till Elton was ready to go, but he doubted he’d be sleeping over soon.

The door slammed open and in came Rhea like a bat straight out of hell. She must really want her plain donut. He was the only one in the room. Her eyes settled on him and she walked closer. Standing on the opposite side of the table. “What the fuck are you doing?!” she hissed.

“Watching the news” he gestured to the TV.

“Not that” the curl of her lips showed disgust. “I talked to Roman” her grin was too sharp.

“And?” he wouldn’t say much if Roman hadn’t said anything at all.

“You think that’s okay? Wanting to weasel your way in on my case? I don’t know where you’re from, but you don’t do that here”.

Jordan stood up. “Roman gives out the cases, and if he gave it to me, that’s saying something”.

“You can’t even get donuts right and you think you’re going to be a good detective?” she smirked.

Jordan was silent.

“Not that I’m telling you to stop. Maybe when you’re forty you’ll finally make detective” she smiled.

“Well coming here, my first week, it wasn’t your picture I replaced up on the wall, but Finn’s. So Ms. Bigshot detective isn’t the best cop here”.

He saw her eyelash twitch. That was quite the comical tick. Her face was stoic.

“I’ll only say this once. Stay out of my business, stay away from my suspects. I’ll only say this once” she said coldly before she turned away and walked out. She saw her fingers twitch. On the right side as she walked out.

It was strange.

Rhea marched out of the room bumping into Elton and some others on the way. She didn’t even stop.

“What happened?”

“Nothing” he grunted. He was over it.

Time to change and go home.

One things that Roman did that he didn’t know how to feel about was the locker-room situation. All the females had one, so it would be like that for the men too. Equality right? They were all the same, but it was still weird with the sort of people he worked with.

There was a things in the locker-room which he wouldn’t call a rule. If you couldn’t handle it, don’t use it. And if you were an Omega and weren’t shy, then by all means use it. Alphas were shameless. So it was a bit Baywatch. Shower with your underwear on. But if you did that, how would you wear your clothes after. He honestly didn’t care much today.

He wasn’t showering, just changing.

He didn’t wear a bra today and didn’t bring underwear along. The shirt wasn’t easy to take off, neither was it to put on, but he survived. Thank goodness he didn’t come in with tight trousers. Just as he pulled that up, someone cleared their throat behind him.

‘Just great’ he thought.

He turned around just to see Damian. Rhea’s partner. His day just kept getting better and better.

“Jordan was it?”

“Yeah” he turned back to his locker so he could get his jacket.

“Heard you’re on my case”.

“Look if you’re mad, talk to the chief” he slammed it shut.

“Just wanted to talk” Damian replied and it piqued his curiosity. He turned around and Daman was holding out a card.

“Call me some time. I’d love to hear your thoughts” Damian said once he took it and he turned away.

“What the fuck just happened?” Elton asked from behind him, voicing his thoughts exactly.

“That’s what I’d like to know”.

\\\\\

The fingers running around his scalp wasn’t soothing. It was like tiny insects running around and just feasting away on his head.

“Feeling relaxed?” Rhea asked from up above. He didn’t look up. Not that his head being on her bare thigh was any better. His face was so close to her crotch so he didn’t move an inch. He’d never been in a position that he didn’t want to be close to someone’s genitalia. If he looked up, her breasts would be in his face. She was naked just like him. He kept his eyes closed and tried not to breathe. He still didn’t want the shampoo to find its way into him.

He thought he had been in hell before. He didn’t think he’d ever compare situations. Being kidnapped, his freedom gone, to being locked in a basement.

The last thing he remembered was trying to call the police. Then there was pain and everything went dark. He woke up in pain, he also woke restricted. He was cold and felt like he’d been pushed into a very small space. His claustrophobia had kicked in so fast. He couldn’t move. When he moved his hands, he tugged on his ankles. And that would cause his body to fall.

He didn’t know what sort of position he had been in. But there was a bar in front of him. Under his arms. He leaned forward it’d be uncomfortable and it’d hurt his sternum, his ribs. He’d tried finding balance with his armpits, but it hadn’t helped one bit. Kneeling straight hurt his back. Seeing how he couldn’t do anything more than a hunched position.

He couldn’t spread his legs for a little relief. So he had spent a long time down there. He didn’t know if it was days, or just a day, but he never wanted to go back down there. He couldn’t sleep not just because of the position or the pain. Insects crawled all around him.

Mosquitos would fly around his ears and moths would get on his face and in his hair. He could do nothing to stop it. It wasn’t long before he was screaming for Rhea. She never came when he screamed. He thought that she might have just abandoned him there. Left in a cold and dark room with nothing but the insects and a dim fluctuating light bulb.

He didn’t even know that she had put…that on him.

Sorry didn’t help him this time. She didn’t seem openly mad, but she had put him in here. That spoke volumes. She’d give him things that could only be consumed through a straw. In specific portions. She wanted him alive, but miserable and weak. He wasn’t sure he could physically fight anymore.

Time was just a blur down there, but she had come back one day and had asked, “Do you want out?”

He’d begged “Yes” weakly.

His bones popped and cracked when he walked. He couldn’t even climb the stairs by himself. Standing for more than a minute took his breath away and he couldn’t move like he used to. This was a cause for alarm, but Rhea was completely unbothered. He wanted to clean up by himself, but just couldn’t. He couldn’t physically do it.

He hummed in reply.

He was terrified.

He was back to the room, back to the bed and he couldn’t believe that what he felt was relief. To think that he’d want this so bad.

She assisted him in sitting on the bed slowly. She was dressed now, but he was in a robe. “I think I should massage you this night so you won’t be too sore to move tomorrow. How does that sound?” she already had the balm in her hand, so he guessed she didn’t need his opinion.

“Okay” he croaked.

“Take your robe off and get on your front” she opened the top and it smelt like citrus with herbs.

He untied the belt without thinking much about it, pulling it down before turning on his front and laying his head on the pillows. His eyes already glistened, tears welling up. Never had he ever felt so hopeless since he opened his eyes in this place. He’d never felt so beaten down in his entire life that he’d crave the comfort of a slightly less bad situation.

He closed his eyes as Rhea knelt on the bed. She pulled the rest of the robe off so she could straddle his lower back. She started at his shoulder blades, just rubbing lightly and his shoulders shook. Less because of her and more because he was trying not to cry.

“What was that?” she asked saccharine sweet.

“I’m sorry” he hiccupped.

“Aww Dom. Don’t cry” she leaned forward, her body pressing against his back, but was able to angle her head so they’d be looking at each other. Dom opened his wet eyes.

“You’re sorry?” he nodded in reply.

“Will you defy me again?”

“No” his voice cracked.

“Will you deny me?” she asked lowly.

Dom was looking her in the eye then looked away. She grabbed his hair. “Look at me!!” she demanded, but still in that low tone.

“I won’t” he answered, dispirited.

Rhea grinned maliciously. “Kiss me” she told him.

Dom closed his eyes, this time the tears rolled down both his cheeks before his lips met hers.

A perfect end to a shitty day. And oddly, it could be used both ways. It was darkly amusing.

Chapter Text

“The hand that beats the Omega is the hand that comforts the Omega. Just like with children, your Omega is a special type of child”.

A small crowd had formed in the parking lot of a supermarket. A tall skinny man had a microphone with a long cord. His hair didn’t start until the middle of his head. He wore it long

He had circular glasses and doned a cream robe with gold on the hem. His sandals were ugly and brown. There were a few others with him in the circle. They had fliers and pamphlets they passed to other shoppers who stopped to listen and people trying to get to their cars.

“It’s a slow acting cancer. Equal rights first, then they don’t want to take care of the children or have children. No longer homemakers but breadwinners. Upsetting the natural order” the man said distraught.

“Brothers and sisters where does it end?!” he screamed hysterical. “It can be fixed fear not. There was a time scolding an Omega wasn’t a crime. There was a time everything was normal and it still can be. Wanting submission isn’t a bad thing. It’s what you deserve and if it can’t be given willingly-“

“Dom!” his mum hissed.

The cookie he had just bitten fell out of his mouth in fright. His mum gripped him by the arm and pulled him roughly to the car.

“OW! Mum!” he whined.

“What were you doing listening to that?!” she sounded upset. She threw the bag in the backseat and he thought that she’d throw him in too.

He jumped when she closed the back door and ripped the passenger’s door open so he could get in. She even lifted him to make it hasty. She wanted them out fast.

She strapped in and made a quick left. They were both quiet.

“Mum, what did that man mean?” he asked softly and shrunk when she sighed. She didn’t want to be asked questions.

“It’s nothing Dominik. You shouldn’t listen to people when they say things like that. It’s wrong”.

“But he said it’s not wrong to hit Omegas. I’m an Omega-“

“Dom!” his mum snapped. “Never think that. No one has the right to hit you” he’d never seen mum this angry before. “They can’t hit you just because you’re you, and you shouldn’t think they can just because you’re what you are. Do you understand me?!” she asked sharply.

“Yes” he felt bad, also sad because he thought he’d made her mad.

She exhaled. “Now just...eat your cookie” she couldn’t think of anything else to say so she decided on that.

He nodded and bit into the cookie. It tasted salty. Because of his tears.

He never thought much about those words, but they stayed with him for a very long time. They were all human. Why would they resort to hitting the other? Everyone was civilized now.

Why hit your partner to force submission for you? To use fear to control you? That wasn’t a relationship. Where someone had to be beneath you instead of by your side.

He remembered the back of his head hitting the hardwood floor. Then the pain spreading up his middle. That took his breath away.

His ribs hit the steps then he remembered falling. He couldn’t stop himself. He just rolled till he crashed into something solid. He stopped for a while, then he was rolling again. He thought he’d die. He thought he’d passed out, but no.

He’d just laid there. His body refusing to move. Even if he could, he’d still have laid there in that mangled position. The footsteps were louder and he couldn’t fight the whole sense of impending doom.

Her bare feet had been the last thing he remembered seeing. His mind must have blocked out everything. But now that he could sleep without mosquitoes flying around his ears or moths attaching themselves to his skin, he got these little flashbacks or dreams.

Choking on his blood and being unable to breathe. He might have been punched in the face. He still wasn’t sure. It might have been a pain induced hallucination.

But then he’d been rolled on his side and had been shivering violently. There’d been continuing clanking.

That was when he’d heard Rhea say, “How could you be that dumb...” and that was the last thing.

Rhea watched the deep worry of Dom’s brows. Must be another nightmare. It’d been going on for a while. Since he came back up till now. It was becoming a problem.

Even trying to get to sleep he’d do that sharp waking up once he got relaxed. She asked what it was and he said he could still hear mosquitoes.

Cute.

She hugged him, pulling him closer trying to see if this would calm him down. It did during that first nightmare. Well she thought it did, but Dom wasn’t a mediocre actor. He’d had her going for a while.

She meant what she said. She couldn’t believe he’d be that dumb. Her letting him out and not letting him go should have been his first guess. Not even the phone. Honestly. If he had someone against their will, would he show that person there was a means of escape. An easily accessible means of escape.

He must not have realized it the first time she showed him their first picture. Must have been shock. But the second time? Her not locking the drawer? Showing him where it was?

She carded her fingers through his hair as he whimpered. He pressed against her tighter.

Her hands caught a couple of knots on the way down, but she reached the end and her hand was pressed against his back. She liked feeling him up against her like this.

Her hand went lower.

She was a profiler. It was a course that was mandatory if you wanted to be a detective. She studied psychology too. So she just understood people. On the surface and what was going on deeper.

Just like she knew any sane person would keep fighting till the end for their freedom. She wasn’t sure Dom was done yet. Maybe just a little more.

Seeing Dom for the first time and their interaction she knew what he was all about. He’d been doing his job. If he didn’t work there he’d not have approached her at all. To be honest he didn’t care. If there wasn’t a specific purpose you played in his life, he wasn’t interested.

Not that it was a bad thing. People wouldn’t just walk up to a stranger and try and befriend them. They were okay with their circle and didn’t want to change. Why have so many friends?

And speaking of Dom’s friends. They were all pretty. Athletic. They all had that aesthetic. Not that Dom was bad looking himself. It was just odd. Maybe he did it to feel good about himself. So there was a bit of vanity he didn’t even know about.

On the surface he looked easygoing, laid back, cool, helpful and nice. In reality he was a vain, selfish cheater who had an excuse and put the blame on other people instead of taking accountability of things he did.

For example not taking accountability for cheating on his girlfriend, but saying she knew what their relationship was. She didn’t.

She kept caressing him. From his waist to his back. Up and down. Continuously.

She looked at her phone on the nightstand. She reached her hand back to get it.

She unlocked it. Her thumb glided across the screen idly. A video was on pause. As much as she loved this, she had work today.

/////

“Neck, ankle or wrist?” she asked.

Dom had never seen her get ready. This was new and exciting. She felt her stomach flutter. Like it had been the past days. Like they were a couple. They’d even taken a bath together. It had been the norm these past days.

So romantic.

Dom was ready for the day. Since she was taking more time to get ready now she didn’t have enough time to get breakfast ready. This would be the norm till Dom had more mobility.

She was still using the medicinal balm and didn’t want him covered up. Seeing the purple and green littering his body didn’t really do anything to her. She just ignored it.

“What?” Dom was still sitting on the bed.

“Choose one” she waited.

Her face, she had that playfulness in her eyes but with what had gone down who knows when, he only expected pain from her. He tried not to flinch when she reached for him. He thought that’d make her mad too. He just didn’t want her to hurt him so he was constantly on edge, trying to be on his best behavior.

“Ankle” he said raspy.

“Okay” she agreed.

It’d be less painful than her trying to break his neck.

She got on her knees and wrapped her left hand round his right ankle. “You’re trembling” she stated.

“I’m cold” he denied.

Rhea’s other hand went under the bed and he closed his eyes. The anticipation was killing him.

There was a rattling and then a snap. Something cold latched round his ankle. His eyes snapped open.

More chains. He was certain that was a collar. Or a shackle. How did he miss that?

Rhea was back on her feet. He was instantly alert. His eyes following her every movement that he was leaning back on the bed.

“The chain allows access to the toilet, you can stay in the room, go downstairs to the kitchen and the living room. Just a precautionary measure when I’m away. You understand?” she took both his hands and lifted him up.

“Wait! You’re leaving?” he didn’t know why he was suddenly overcome by fear.

“I have to. Are you going to miss me?”

His heartbeat was picking up. He just didn’t want to be alone. Like in that dark basement.

“Dom” she cupped his face and stared deep into his eyes. “I have to leave okay. You can walk me downstairs, I’ll pour you some breakfast cereal and when I get back, I’ll bring along something you like. Okay?”

She placed his hands on her shoulders so she could wrap her arms round his waist. He always shyed away from eye contact.

She had no idea why.

He nodded. “Okay”.

“Great. Let’s go” she took his hand and led him out the room slowly. The sound of the heavy chain dragging along the floor went ignored. Going down the steps it was just the same. She wasn’t holding the rails. This would be the perfect time for Dom to push her down. He was standing right behind her. He could do it. He’d have to figure out a way to pry the shackle off, but if he was smart about it, he’d have a few minutes to try and escape.

She had set herself up for attempted murder and he didn’t take the bait. She stopped in her tracks. He almost walked into her.

“What’s wrong?” he already sounded winded.

She looked over her shoulder. “Nothing you should concern yourself with” she said dismissively before continuing down to the kitchen.

While she served him breakfast Dom sat on the chair, forehead on the table as he tried to catch his breath. There was sweat on the back of his shoulders and along his arm.

He’d already exerted himself. She didn’t put the box and the milk back just in case he wanted more.

“You should drink some water first. When I come home, after dinner, another massage. You’ll be back to normal before you know it”.

Head still on the table, he shook it.

She decided to sit with him for breakfast. She was late, but there was one thing she needed to do. He scarfed down the cereal. His time downstairs didn’t alter that at least.

“Why don’t you walk me to the door?” she asked once she stood. He’d be going to the couch anyway. She wasn’t sure he’d be making the trip back up those stairs so soon.

“I don’t see-“

“Come on” she lifted him up, placing his hands on her shoulders like she had done earlier as she began to walk backwards.

One step, two steps, five steps and Dom stopped. He almost lost his footing, but Rhea was there to steady him. The chain had stretched far enough and Dom could no longer move unless it was backwards. He was just an arm’s length away from the door.

If he stretched like he meant it, he’d be able to touch the door. But after that, what next? He still wouldn’t be able to leave.

“Well, this is as far you’ll go” she hugged him. She had her face against his chest so she didn’t know the expression he was making.

“Will you give me a goodbye kiss?” she grinned.

Dom looked away from the door, crestfallen. “Sure” and he leaned down to peck her lips. Not a lot of intent in that. Doing it like it was bothersome.

He was mad.

“Any requests?” she let go of him and walked back till she was pressed against the door.

“You know me” he said forcefully. “I trust your judgement”.

“Smart boy” she said impressed. “Bye Dom” she wriggled her fingers and turned to unlock the door. Dom watched as lock after lock went undone.

She opened the door. “Bye”.

It was really sweet. It gave her the feeling of being a married couple.

She closed the door.

No sound of a click outside that it was secure. She just showed it to him that freedom was right there, but it wasn’t an option for him.

It made his heart ache and there was a sob in his throat. He tested the chain and it had been stretched far enough. Any more tugging he’d hurt himself.

So he stepped back a couple of feet and rounded the couch where he plopped down.

This was his breaking point.

Rhea continued her leisure walk. She never drove her bike close to the house. She needed Dom to feel complete isolation. To instill in him that feeling of loneliness. Thousands of miles away from civilization. So her bike had to be camouflaged underneath a tarp.

She brought her phone out and unlocked it. Her screen taking her back to where she’d stopped. The video she’d been watching.

She’d forgotten her socks. That was the only reason she was back here. Not that she was hoping she’d run into Dom and they’d talk and have a passionate moment.

No. That was crazy. It only happened in movies.

What she had forgotten was her water bottle. It was a gift and she had to get it before a weirdo put their lips on it. Did anyone have any idea just how dangerous a human mouth was?

Were had she kept it?

By the weights? Locker-room? Food court? Yes that was it. She’d removed it from the holster to refill up on water.

And there it was. On the counter. Close to containers of nuts and granola. It blended in well, so she guessed that was why it was still here.

She took it back. It was weird being here in the night. First off no one was around. A bit too late for a night workout. She didn’t even check the time. Before she looked like a creeper she needed to get out of here.

Then she heard laughter. Her flight and fright response was always the former. Move into action, but not today because she looked and felt she was doing something wrong. She jumped over the counter and went down.

“... you’re so funny”.

It was Dom. Rhea slapped a hand over her mouth because she had almost said it out loud.

“And that concludes the end of our tour” Dom said with showmanship.

Rhea stealthily crawled with her stomach and elbows, taking her way all the way to the door that led to the backroom. And this was those special doors without a doorknob.

So it was easy getting in and standing on her feet. They were alone. No music to distract her, and no noise from other patrons. She’d be able to listen.

“...I noticed you staring earlier. What was that about?” Seth asked lazily.

“No I wasn’t” he denied, but the bashful smile contradicted his words.

“It’s alright. I was too” they were facing each other and now Seth had Dom backed up against the checkout counter, hands on his hips as he leaned over him in what he considered seductive.

It really wasn’t.

“So? Now what?” Dom leaned back as Seth’s lips came closer.

“What do you mean now what?’ he asked bemused. “We do what we’re meant to do” he leaned to kiss him again, but he got Dom’s neck instead.

“Not sure my dad is going to like that” Dom placed both hands on his shoulder as if to push him away.

“Are you going to tell him?” Seth teased and Dom yelped.

The Alpha’s hands had gone lower and she had a good guess to what he was doing.

“If you don’t want to...” Seth was letting go, but Dom held him tighter.

“I didn’t say that” he said hastily and Seth smiled before they began to make out.

When she’d taken the video it was something to torture herself with. To remind her of her failure. To tell her that she was a coward everyday.

Who would have thought it’d be a good thing.

She giggled as she opened X.

Trending number one.

‘Dom looks awfully young here’.

‘Doesn’t look like he was comfortable or wanted to kiss. Just saying. Don’t come for me’.

‘#twosidestothestory’.

She ripped the tarp off and put her phone in her front pocket. It was a good day.

/////

She was having a plain donut with coffee. The thing wasn’t healthy, but it was a healthier option compared to what the rest of them had. She didn’t pay for this so free breakfast.

She was sitting on Damian’s desk. Not like they had been talking or anything. Conversations weren’t meant to be much when you ate. It was a choking hazard.

Damian’s eyes had been on his food on the desk, then he had raised his head, his eyes had settled on something and followed it. So she had to look and pretend she wasn’t looking.

It was two people she didn’t care for. The useless blonde and the nosey brunette. She turned back to Damian.

“See something you like?” she knew his type.

He just shrugged.

“Who’s the dude anyway?” she asked nonchalant. He was only as much of a problem as she allowed.

“He’s new. Graduated top of his academy and he had a perfect score on his personal assessment test as soon as he got here. Not near perfect, perfect. That hasn’t happened in years. Didn’t even happen with Finn”.

She scoffed. She wasn’t impressed.

“Why didn’t Roman roll out the red carpet then?”

He shrugged again. “You know Roman”. He took his coffee cup as he stood. “Seen the video?”

“Everyone has”.

“Wish we could just get it over and book this guy, but it’s not my call”.

“With this we already have motive. We just need to pop by a few more times and it’ll be in the bag” she grinned and slid off his desk.

“Let’s just go get real food. This coffee is disgusting”.

She followed him.

JD was driving today.

He waited by the car for his partner who hadn’t come out yet. A miracle. He’d have at least a few minutes to hear himself think. He opened the Notes app on his phone. There was a pinned picture of Raquel with crossed out writing.

He’d ruled her out, but not completely written her off. There was still motive of conspiracy to murder.

Seth.

He’d pinned his picture this morning. He had motive. Dom wanting to tell his father of their relationship. Or he was mad Dom wanted to leave him.

That interview had him convinced he wasn’t the one. He was a people person. He just knew these things. Seth said Dom started it, few weeks later, a very convenient, albeit suspicious video drops to implicate Seth.

Obviously he wouldn’t do that to himself. But who would?

Raquel? Who had no idea what was going on?

It was giving the movie, Gone Girl before. Now, it was something else. Who would benefit most from this being pinned on Seth?

Someone who knew Seth. Someone who knew what Seth had going on with Dom. Someone close. This person was angry and vindictive.

But the question remained. Who to turn to when there were no more person of interest?

“Go to the start of it all!” he blurted out, surprising himself.

“Are you talking to yourself now Jordan?” Shaun was here.

There went his peace.

“The job will do that to you” maybe he was becoming a bit just too attached.

Tomorrow he’d be going to the scene of the crime. Where Dom had disappeared. He got into the car.

He’d also need to talk to Seth. And after all that, maybe things will finally start making sense.

Chapter Text

Rhea placed her hand on Dom’s stomach and that had him opening his eyes. He didn’t want to be up now. Wanted to sleep some more because he had exhausted himself yesterday with anxiety. Rhea brought back a meal from Inside Out burger and he’d passed out. He wasn’t even sure he finished his dinner.

Rhea's hand went higher. Just underneath his ribs. It wasn’t like she hadn’t done it before. Her touching him wasn’t new. The hand was going higher.

He shifted. “Rhea?”

“Good morning” Rhea said as she pressed against his back. She was hot. Her hand was on his chest now. Directly over his heart. And in between his heart was a thin shirt. And the soft flesh of his right breast that Rhea was holding.

He exhaled.

“Just found you all the more irresistible this morning. You look good enough to eat” she licked his neck and Dom flinched away, but where could he really go.

“I wish I could fuck you right now” she growled before nipping him.

Dom gulped, still curled in on himself.

She woke up feeling sexual. It wasn’t odd seeing as she was living with someone of the opposite sex that looked so delectable. It had been months leading to this. So she hadn’t been with anyone for a long time.

And Dom hadn’t.

“Am I getting you excited?” she whispered, moving against the back of his thigh .

She could see the goosebumps on his arm. Just like she could feel his hardened nipples. She kissed his nape and her hand went underneath his shirt. His left hand held hers.

She stopped moving her hands, but not her hips. “What? You want to touch mine too?” and she nipped his earlobe, directly below his stud piercing.

“You can” she took her other hand underneath so her hand could come through the other side and gripped his right breast. Dom gasped, but kept his mouth firmly shut. She kept groping him, her thumb swiping across both nipples as she humped his leg.

He twitched and trembled in her hold. His legs rubbed against each other. Stretching and curling. He couldn’t help not reacting. Rhea was an attractive woman if you did take away the crazy. Whether she had blonde or black hair. Before he went down he’d discovered that sexual attraction wasn’t impossible. Even though it was just to lure her in. She did get him excited. She was a good kisser. He liked what she did that night just like he was doing now.

She shifted, withdrawing her hands and like that she was over him, tugging his shirt all the way up his arms and tossing it carelessly.

If it weren’t for stupid morning breath she’d have kissed him, but she could kiss something else.

Dom whimpered as she pinched them. And she wasn’t stopping. She wanted to feel him in her mouth. She stopped and Dom sighed, trying to cover up so he could soothe himself.

They were getting red now.

She took his right wrist when he tried. She didn’t hold his left. He’d remove his hands of his own accord soon enough. Dom didn’t cover-up his upper half around here. The place was cold most times. That was why she didn’t put an AC in here. So most of the time she got an eyeful.

She kissed the right one first, licking it before covering it with her mouth. She moaned like she’d eaten something overly sweet. Dom was breathing and present underneath her.

He was here. No need to keep following him around, no listening through a mic and wondering how he’d feel in moment like these, how he’d taste. How he’d react.

He didn’t seem as confident and eager as he sounded when he was with Seth or Raquel.

She bit him and Dom yelped. He started a bit and she gripped his chin to make him look at her. Still trying to curl in on himself, still looking away, eyes shut.

“Why are you pretending to not want this when you’re hard?”

Her left hand went down his torso and touched him through his shorts. She came down and laid beside him. Him on his side facing her as she massaged him through his shorts. She took her mouth to its previous position, kissing the right as an apology for the bite.

She’d only wanted to get his attention.

She kissed a line to the left and swallowed that little nipple. Slurping around it obscenely before sucking on it like one normally would, tilting her mouth so that her canines could slide against that soft and chewy piece of flesh.

She was tired of feeling him up through his clothes. So she tugged his waistband down so she could hold him down there. He closed his legs. She felt his thighs twitch, but that wasn’t a bother.

Dom didn’t say stop or that he hated it. He let her keep going and she smiled into his chest before biting him again. Dom groaned hoarse and his knees came up and she had to remove her hand or risk an injury.

His cheeks were so red. He was that embarrassed. She had to wonder exactly how he’d be when they finally had sex.

There was a little something on her fingers. She gave it an examining look. Dom turned away from her, hugging himself, hand blindly searching for his shirt.

With her clean hand she caressed the mullet. “Want to get in the shower?”

“Yeah” Dom said so soft that she wouldn’t have heard if she had stood up at that time.

She licked her hand.

It only got better from here.

/////

JD stood in front of a Papa John’s. The one that Dominik had gone missing in front of. The report made public was that Dominik went in and didn’t come back.

With Roman aware he was able to come in here and look at the video that must have been shown to them prior. He saw Dominik enter and exit. That was it. They had cameras inside and the cameras outside just covered the front. Over the top of the door. So no clear view at what might have happened at the parking lot. That was if anything happened.

He didn’t know how many times he replayed it just to notice something. Nothing was off. Dominik walked in, picked up his order and walked down the way he came.

He thanked the manager and left. He walked out the establishment and instead of walking forward, he took a left, just like how Dominik did. That had been in the direction of his car. It was in the camera’s blind spot.

He took one step after the other and he came to stand in front of an alley.

“Uh” he said to himself. He turned back around to look at the camera. Way out of sight and no camera in the alley. Dominik could have walked into the alley, but if he left the alley a camera was sure to catch it. As he approached the end, there was a cafe up ahead. And what did all establishments have?

Cameras.

He went there, talked to the manager just like he had done at the pizza shop. His notes had been used so much in a few weeks than he’d ever used them.

The time that Dominik had arrived in the restaurant has been half past seven. So he just had to get the exact date and that time footage. April 4th 7:30 p.m. What he got before getting there were a lot of people coming out and going back in. Emptying their trash, talking, smoking and everything else.

What stood out was a truck backing into the alley. It was camera footage. Not the clearest so he’d have to make the best of what he had. He’d take it back to work and have to have it enhanced. Or if by some miracle he’d see a logo or plate number.

The truck had pulled into the alley two hours before Dominik arrived. Coincidence or premeditated? Dom wouldn’t get into an alley just like that. Maybe he knew the person.

It could be the truck came to drop something off. And just left. Dom could have gotten accosted by someone in the parking lot and could have been kidnapped, but someone would have called if they saw something weird. There had been a lot of people at that time.

The truck drove out of the alley a bit after eight. He checked other camera footage and it wasn’t so grainy. He got a logo. It was a rental company and he guessed that was where he was going to next. It was going to be a long day.

He could find and talk to Seth, but that would be the last thing he’d resort to after that video dropped. Now he had a truck to trace. And there was that video. Just talked to a few Betas in the department that took care of things like that. They had traced the IP address or whatever and he’d gotten a name.

Sami Zayn.

/////

“Sami, there’s someone here to talk to you” the redhead removed his headphones and turned away from his computer.

“Sorry, what did you say?”

“There’s someone downstairs looking for you” the security guard repeated. “Said he’s a cop” the headphones dropped from his shoulders. It did catch the attention from people at their own desks, but not for long.

“Don’t worry about it Hank. I’ll be right there” he whispered his answer quickly and he stood up.

He hastily walked to the elevator and once the doors opened, he tapped furiously on the button for the ground floor.

Once he stepped out, he saw one person with their arms folded, leaning on his side against the front desk. He finally noticed him and stepped away.

“Are you Sami?”

“Are you the one looking for me?”

“Yes” he answered as Sami stepped closer.

“Why? If I may ask?”

“Concerning the video you posted. I didn’t know the magazine you work for was involved in that story-“

“Look. They’re not” Sami cut him off, running a hand down his face. “Who even are you? From another company?”

Jordan showed his badge. “Jordan Devlin, but that isn’t important. That video you posted, did you record it?” he interrogated.

“No. I didn’t. I just found it” he replied.

“So by day, you’re this guy that writes columns for a luxury magazine and by night you have this conspiracy blog. How would it fare if your company found out you were posting things like these? Things you were speculating. You could get a lot of lawsuits” he wasn’t threatening or forcing anything. He just wanted answers because he had implicated himself and was sure he could be involved in this mystery.

“Okay. When the story started getting a lot of attention, people wanted to know a lot. It’s a popular name, it’s also a popular gym. So when it made the news that Seth was seen leaving the station and people started talking...I’m an investigative journalist” he explained.

“Not a gossip columnist?” Jordan quirked his brow.

“Investigative journalist” he hissed. “People needed answers-“

“And you wanted to point fingers” he said dismissively. If he was what he claimed he was then he wouldn’t use a pseudonym on a tacky Instagram blog.

“Where did you get the videos?” He queried.

“The first one wasn’t me. Must have been the paparazzi. The second one, I found it”.

“Found it where? On the street? In the store?” he asked sceptical.

“It was in the mail. I open my mail and saw this flash drive. I played it and saw the video. Who sent it wanted me to have it” he said righteous.

“And you just decided to take it, play it and post it?” he didn’t know how to go about this. And whoever sent this, what was the connection between them, Dom and an average gossip columnist?

“Don’t just take things like that and play it sir” he advised.

“Is that all? I have work” he gestured to the elevator.

“Yes. We’re done. I can’t stop you from writing on the blog, but be careful. Hopefully we don’t run into each other again. Thank you for your time and have a nice day” Jordan smiled.

He still had one more thing to take care of. And hopefully he’d get a name. If he didn’t, he’d have to question Seth and that would be the end. After everything he did to get on this case.

He had a lot to lose.

Next destination, the rental place.

/////

“You wanted to see me Chief” Rhea said as she walked in.

Roman had an open file in one hand and the other hand supporting his forehead as he read it.

“Yes. Rhea” he looked up stoic. “That case of yours. The Mysterio case. How is that going?”

“So far it’s going well. Seth seems to be our guy-“

“And you’re sure?” the way he asked her that question, like he wanted her to say something else.

“Yes sir” she answered, hands going behind her back.

“Rhea. You’re one of the best here. I don’t doubt that. So why didn’t you cover everything like you’re meant to?” his eyes pierced her.

“I do think that I covered everything sir. I talked to all the suspects and drew out the key suspect. It is Seth. All I need is a confession” she said firmly.

Roman scoffed. “Sorry to tell you Rhea, but you didn’t” he held the file for her to take. “You don’t need a rookie showing you up. You’re usually better than this” and he sounded disappointed.

She was disappointed in herself.

She looked at the meticulous report she had in her hands. Her eyelash twitched and her fingers trembled holding the file, trying not to squeeze it.

She could take a wild guess as to who did this.

She barged into the men’s locker-room.

She had all the eyes of the men on her. She didn’t care. She only needed one person and somehow he couldn’t be found. This was the last place he’d be. Maybe he was hiding from her.

“Wait! Rhea’s in here?!” someone exclaimed.

“Not like I haven’t seen it all. I have one” she said gravelly.

And there the little culprit was. Talking to Elton and Damian. Whatever that was it could wait till later.

She marched up to them. “Excuse me!” she cut in.

“Oh mother!” Elton said under his breath as he walked away, folding his arms even though he had a robe on.

“Rhea, what are you doing in here?” Damian asked calmly.

“I came to have a conversation with Jordan” her hands were pressed together as she pointed to said man with a too huge smile.

“Rhea-“

“What about?” JD cut him off.

“Just wanted to ask you what it is you love? Out of everything in the world, what is it?” she asked animated.

Damian sighed.

“Oh. I know” she stopped him just as he was about to answer. “You must love your family back home” she answered her own question. “You obviously moved here, so your parents are back home. This is probably the only thing you got. So imagine this” she said cruelly.

“I just walk into your house and crap over your family. How would you feel?” she asked innocently with the hugest of eyes, hands still pressed together.

Jordan looked stupefied.

“Yeah. Just someone walking in and shitting on something you like. Hurts, doesn’t it?” she was fuming, but that big smile didn’t leave her face. “Like you did to me”.

Jordan clenched his fists and exhaled. “Sorry I can do your job better than you”.

“Oh! You want to do my job now?” she growled and stepped forward, but into Damian’s outstretched arm. Jordan stepped back. He looked frightened.

It made her smile wider.

“Well let’s bet then. You’re on the case. Congratulations” she pushed Damian’s hand away as she marched out.

The entire locker-room had been frozen by the spectacle, but the door slamming shut was able to break that spell of silence and everyone had to get back to normal. Which was cleaning up and going home.

That was more important than staring at him. He felt way self-conscious. With what just happened he’d just go home and try to forget it before coming to work tomorrow.

He wish he didn’t have to.

“That was rough” he stated.

“Tell me something I don’t know” he muttered and massaged his eyes with the heels of his palm. No one was going to forget what just happened. He was really ashamed.

“Well what do I call you now? Partner?”

“What?” he eyed Damian.

“You’re on the case now. Didn’t you hear?”

He did hear, but still trying to get over the fact that his colleague had almost attacked him.

Why was Damian still here? Trying to apologize for his partner? He didn’t need it. But now that they were “partners” they’d have to work closely together. So Damian would be in the middle.

“So what did you find out?”

/////

What he found out was an eye-opener. He went to the rental and asked questions about who rented the truck on that date. The truck had been used that day, but had been booked a week prior. They really couldn’t give a lot of information. It wasn’t a very high-end establishment.

He was sure the average person would be suspicious if the name filled on paper was “Dorian Grey”.

“Dorian Grey?” Damian repeated just as shocked. He found it funny.

“Doesn’t sound like they’re even trying” he laughed.

It was lazy. “But that was it. They paid in cash, no ID. Everything was by the book. Security cameras weren’t even working” he shook his head. After a long day, he got to nowhere and got embarrassed in the Male locker-room by a Female.

There was his reward for hard work he guessed.

“And the guy that posted the video, you said he received a flash drive?”

“Yes. But why send it to a random blogger? Whoever is doing this, might just have a connection with Dominik and Seth”.

“Sami doesn’t seem important. The perpetrator might just use social media” Damian supplied.

Damian had invited him over to his place so they could talk about the case. Basically what got Rhea upset. He could have just asked for the file from Roman because that was all he had. It didn’t take up to an hour and they were already done.

This seemed pointless.

It was time for him to leave.

But Damian had offered drinks. That has been the first thing he offered before they started talking about the case. Since it ended early and there was nothing more to talk about, he offered more drinks, which he should decline since he drove here, but he didn’t.

He could just listen to Damian talk. He had the soothing deep baritone that he was sure could put someone to sleep. He was sure if he put his ear to his chest, his chest would have that pleasing rumble.

He’d gotten lost looking at Damian’s chest. When he looked up Damian was looking at him. That studying look.

He wasn’t oblivious. He’d caught Damian’s eyes on him many times since he came into the force. And he had accepted an invite to his place after work. It seemed like the perfect setup for whatever might happen further down the rest of the night.

No wonder he was welcomed with open arms. So he wasn’t dating Rhea. He got that vibe from them for  some reason. He shouldn’t think about Rhea the reminder of the night. It was really a mood killer. Not a sexual mood or anything like that.

Thinking about her killed any mood.

Thinking about it, should he actually partner with these two?

Anyway, “I should get going” he stood up. His second bottle unfinished.

Damian stood with him. “Should you be driving with how much you’ve drank?”

“I barely had two bottles” he put both hands in his back pockets as Damian came to stand in front of him. His chest grazing against his just a bit.

“You should be setting a good example” due to the height difference, whatever Damian was trying to do failed. He’d seen it many times. Bring your face forward like you were going to kiss, but divert your nose and lips anywhere to give those seductive brush ups.

Alphas thought it was sexy.

Well, depended on the Alpha.

“Said the one who bought the beers” he chuckled. “If you care that much, you can call me a ride”.

“Or you can stay the night?”

He thought about it. “And why would I do that?”

Damian was a man of few words. They hadn’t had long conversations prior today. So his head getting tipped back didn’t surprise him as it should. Maybe because he was a bit tipsy.

Damian tipped him back a bit. Hands on his lower back as he pressed his lips against his. It wasn’t soft at all. Surprising because he’d had at least four, but it was exciting. Exhilarating even.

So he welcomed it.

He hadn’t gone out as much since he’d gotten here. Too preoccupied with work. That married to his job scenario. Lately he hadn’t even had chance to get in bed with Elton. The two of them had this fuckbuddy relationship.

But the fact still remained. One thing that a Male Omega couldn’t give another. What the two of them couldn’t give each other.

A knot.

He wanted to ask why Damian has a dresser in his room but there were more pressing matters. For example what exactly was pressing into his abdomen. Getting that was his priority.

“Who would have thought you were a pillow biter” Damian groaned in his ear.

He wasn’t biting the pillows but his wrist. His brain had turned into mush and he couldn’t handle any other thought apart from this moment of Damian laying behind him.

He had hooked his right leg over him, had one arm under his ribs to prop him up, the other hand pressed against his pelvis just to hold him against him.

“I’m not” he said through grit teeth.

“Oh my God” he moaned into the pillow, his fingers dug into Damian’s thigh, trying to push him off, trying to pull away. But Damian hooked his ankle between his legs.

“You’re not going just yet. I love watching your tits bounce like that” Damian growled before biting onto the shell of his ear.

“You fucking asshole” Jordan said breathless.

“But you like it though” Damian sucked hickeys into his neck. His tongue straying too close to his gland.

Jordan gripped the sheets so hard that when he pulled it ripped.

Damian clicked his tongue and pulled Jordan towards him and switched their position. He was up for a moment, back still against Damian’s chest. He came in that brief moment before he was positioned on his stomach. Damian’s body covering his completely. Now two arms wrapped around his middle. Damian’s chest pressed his lower half down and his hips did the same to his.

He lost his breath when Damian moved. He was limp and the only thing he could do was move his toes. He could distinctly hear the bed squeak, but it was mostly white noise.

He didn’t know how he was still conscious.

Damian’s hips slowly rolled to a stop. Okay. He was done

His eyes were lowering.

“You should get comfortable” he told him.

“Hmm” was all he could say before his eyes closed.

Chapter Text

“There you are!” Elton gasped when he saw JD. He didn’t even let him wear his uniform. He grabbed him and forced him to the bench. “What in the world happened yesterday?!” he whispered.

“What do you mean?” he quirked his brow.

“The thing with you and the dynamic duo yesterday. Rhea came in here like a dragon, spitting fire. Queen of dragons and all that” Elton squeezed his wrist. That part already turning red. He just sighed.

“I got on the case” he revealed.

“Oh” he dragged. “That explains it” he winced. “She almost went for you, you know?” he asked.

“Did she?” he asked rhetorical.

“Yes. She did. JD, I told you about this. Getting involved in things you have no business in-“

“Speaking from experience?” he took his arm back. “I’m already on the case”.

“And Rhea is happy with that?” Elton asked resigned.

“Damian sure is” Jordan said under his breath.

“So, you two talked about the case?” he asked sceptical.

“Yes, but l still think they’re both convinced it’s Seth. I don’t want to overstep. You saw what happened yesterday, didn’t you?”

“I’m sure everyone knows by now” Elton was no help at all.

“Fuck” he sighed, looking up.

“So you went home with Damian huh?” Elton teased. “I haven’t seen his dick personally but I heard it’s a ten. Is it a ten?” he leered.

“Shut up-“

“Wanted to ask if I could cut in, but now I’m scared”.

Both their heads snapped to the back to see Finn standing there, looking disgruntled. He didn’t care he was in a sports bra. He hugged Finn.

“Finally done with vacation” he said as he let go.

“Can I have a hug too?” Elton stretched his arms out towards him. Finn didn’t reject it. Why would he? Elton was in his work trousers and a sky blue bra. And besides, Elton liked Finn. Elton liked a lot of people.

“Welcome back Finn” he hummed as they parted.

“Seems you’ve all been well. I come back to see that you’ve taken my spot. Like your picture is up. You’re the talk of the force” he smirked. “How’s the reception been?”

“Oh, you know” he shrugged. “Here and there”.

People talked about it. He knew his reputation around here, but that was where it ended. Not like they came to congratulate him or talk to him about it. Just given patrol and yesterday was just the height of it.

“Been having fun?” he asked innocently.

Well, last night was fun. He turned back to his locker so he could get dressed. He had to get the coffee this time around. He and Shaun weren’t the best of friends, but they had schedules. One got the coffee and breakfast this day, the other day another would get it.

Now that Finn was back, hopefully things would be a bit different.

/////

“There he is” Damian grinned as he saw him.

Finn looked smug. “Everyone saying welcome back, being nice but no welcome back banner? There’s no cake or lunch? No drinks? Quite weak”.

“Me you and Rhea will do something after” he said conciliatory. “How was Ireland though?”

“Nice. Girlfriend said hi” he smirked.

“You don’t have a girlfriend” Damian rolled his eyes.

“She doesn’t know that” they both shared a laugh. “How did you all survive without me anyway?”

He groaned. “You two basically left me to hold down the fort while you both went to enjoy the sun during vacation. And then the Lord of all cases fell into my laps. No help from you two. Literally did it all by myself” Damian calmly spoke. Not annoyed at all.

“You got it covered all by yourself, didn’t you?” Finn asked dryly.

Damian glared.

“Relax. Even though I’m the one that’s meant to be wined and dined tonight, I’ll take you out. Does that make you feel better?” he mock pouted. “You fucking baby”.

“Actually yes Finn. I’d like that very much” Damian replied.

Both of them shared a laugh. “But you’ll do breakfast” Finn stood up. “And tell me about this king of all cases on the way” Damian stood after him as they made their way out.

“Guys!” Elton exclaimed as they approached the front desk. “Emergency. It’s a-“

Damian’s phone rang. It was Rhea. He looked at Elton and Finn before answering his phone.

“I need you here”.

/////

All units close by had been told to respond. This was their daily route and they had responded. Shaun had driven them there and they were the only cop car. No paramedics on sight. Just a handful of people. The caution tapes and barriers hadn’t been put up yet.

He knows what he heard. A 187. Homicide. It was something that he’d always reached for. Quite crazy. But there were doctors whose dreams were of once opening and closing a human being up. So it wasn’t crazy that he wanted to be a homicide detective.

Reaching for it and having it happen just like that before him was surreal. The visibly disturbed faces of the people around didn’t phase him. There was no distinct smell apart from the damp smell of the alley and refuse.

But there, in front of the dumpster, peeking out of the alley was a head of curly blonde hair. If he didn’t know any better, he’d just think that she was sleeping. That she was drunk and wanted to sleep it off. But he knew better. The position she was on the ground wasn’t natural. Her limbs curled like she was posing for a picture for a magazine. Knees and elbows bent. Rigor mortis had already taken place. Her strawberry blonde hair glittered and in that moment she reminded him of Elton.

Rhea stood by her. Unaffected. Like this was a normal everyday occurrence. Before now he’d never seen a dead body before. She turned to him unbothered. He wished he could say the same about himself. He covered his mouth, turning to the side and facing the wall as he emptied his stomach contents. He’d only had coffee this morning.

He heard a scoff behind him.

“Get that pregnant Omega off my crime scene” she said with disgust.

He wasn’t sure if he didn’t throw up that he’d feel insulted by that. He was disappointed in himself too.

When the paramedics finally came he stayed out of the way. Sitting in the car, hands over his eyes as he...he couldn’t even think. He had the ball and had just dropped it. Wanted to be taken seriously and he had the opportunity minutes ago, then he blew it. Spectacularly.

Shaun had gotten him some gum, then had gotten him another coffee. He couldn’t even drink it. He just kept seeing her, in her pink dress, neck at an odd angle. Body just... she’d been taken away and Shaun was talking to witnesses.

Something he should be doing too, but here he was, in the car. Hiding. Like he was going through distress. He just wanted to go home. This was going to make its way back for sure.

His head hit the dashboard hard and he didn’t care that it’d leave a bump.

There was a knock at the window. He turned his head to see Rhea.

The day just kept getting better. He rolled the window down.

“You doing alright partner?” he knew she didn’t care. She was just here to mock him. After the whole “Pregnant Omega off my crime scene” and the spectacle of yesterday, it confirmed what he already knew.

That she didn’t like him.

She was bent in front of the window, had a small smile on her lips. “You’re not going to answer me?”

“I’m fine” he muttered.

“Great” she dragged. Derisive. “You do know what this job entails right? You were given the orientation?” she was brutally condescending. “Because this won’t get easier. If you want to be my...partner, don’t try putting me in a position that I’ll have to hold your hand” she said demeaning.

“If you can’t do this, do me and yourself a favour and take yourself off my case” she said bitingly. “Nice talking to you Jordan” she beamed and stood up. “See you later” and she walked away.

He scratched his left eye.

That was something.

Just get him out of here.

/////

The rest of the patrol wasn’t as adventurous after that. They went on as usual. Shaun driving, talking his ear off, maybe trying to cheer him up but not talk about it. He wasn’t feeling anything. He just wanted to go home and spend the weekend in bed.

Speaking of the weekend, he had to talk to Elton.

Once he got back, he brushed his teeth. He hadn’t been able to eat anything the whole day, but now he was starting to feel the effects of hunger. He sighed, leaning back against his locker as he started to undress.

Why did this have to happen when Finn came back?

As he took his shirt off, Damian rounded the corner. Lockers were according to names here. McDonagh, Priest, Prince.

“Heard what happened today” he sat on the bench, his eyes following his hands as he removed his belt and went for his trousers.

“Rhea told you?” he said depressed.

“Heard it from Shaun actually. It’s not my business if you are pregnant, but if you are though-“

“I’m not” he pulled his trousers down. Damian looked appreciative as that happened. Even smirked. “Is that what you wanted to know? Congratulations you aren’t a father”.

“Great. Calls for a celebration” he grinned.

“Not in the mood” he got his change of clothes.

“You’re looking at it like it’s a bad thing” Damian said trying to downplay it.

“Are you the one that rumours of pregnancy are going around about?” he pulled his shirt on.

“You wouldn’t be the first. Have you heard the other stories? Think of it as earning your stripes” JD continued to ignore him.

“At least you didn’t soil your pants. Others before you did. Many others. Ask your partner how he fared” he said comic.

“How did you fare?” he sat to lace his shoes.

“I grew up in New York. It came natural” he said directly. “Rhea on the other hand well...”

“What?” he whispered. That got his attention.

“Probably shouldn’t say, but with that detective brain of yours you will be able to figure that out I’m sure” he nudged him. “Feel better yet?”

“I guess” he wasn’t and wouldn’t be till he was out of here.

“So that celebration? Still on? Want to come over?” he asked excited.

“No. I didn’t agree to anything”.

“You busy during the weekend?” he asked light-hearted.

“Yes” he said sullen.

“With your boyfriend...or girlfriend?” he asked playfully.

If he considered Elton a boyfriend. “No. Just busy” Damian was really persistent, wasn’t he? “Too busy to be a booty call for you all weekend” he said crudely.

“How about just for tonight?” he placed a hand on his thigh. Quite high. And his pinkie grazed his inner thigh so shameless. Well no one was close enough to hear what they were saying.

“What do you say partner?” he leaned closer, wrapping an arm round his shoulder.

“Let me send a text first” with the day he’d had maybe rolling around in the sheets with Damian whose dick was rumoured to be a ten out of ten didn’t seem like a bad idea.

“I want dinner first”.

/////

Shower sex wasn’t safe. He couldn’t be convinced otherwise. But now that he was pressed against someone as sturdy as Damian. Completely solid, he wasn’t scared of falling and cracking his skull open.

That would be one way to go, wouldn’t it?

They really were wasting hot water. He’d been in here first. Just washing up after dinner, then he’d come in. He wasn’t mad. It was his bathroom.

“Should get you a step stool when you’re in here” Damian said with a grin as he pulled away.

The strain was on him more since he was the one that had to be on his toes and stretch his neck.

“Focus on not getting me injured” he bent his neck so they could kiss again. Damian’s hands left his jaw and neck, going lower so he could lift him up.

“Don’t drop me” he said frank. For that moment the playfulness and the arousal left. He wasn’t going to die in an embarrassing way, or worse, having to explain to the doctor why he was rushed to the emergency room. Like an episode of ‘Sex sent me to the ER’.

“Then let’s get out of here” Damian used one arm to support him, using the other hand to turn the shower off. He had to hold onto him really tight as he opened the cabinet door.

Just because they were out of the shower didn’t mean they were out of danger. They couldn’t go around dripping water on hardwood. So while Damian dried off and went about to clean up and turn the lights off, he went to the room.

He’d gotten a text.

Elton has replied to his ‘You’re going out with me this weekend. Bring your slutty dress’.

‘Spending the weekend with you? Why?’

He’d rather just call.

He was going to be naked in a few minutes, but that didn’t mean he’d sit on Damian’s bed with his bare ass. He got a shirt from Damian’s drawer and went to stand in front of the dresser to take care of his hair.

“Heard you saw your first body today” Elton greeted him. “Sounded rough”.

“That’s one more than yours, but I’m okay” he didn’t feel comfortable using Damian’s brush.

“You sure you aren’t preggers?” Elton teased.

“Yours right?” he rolled his eyes, running his fingers through his wet locs. They were going to tangle so bad before tomorrow. “Like I said, we’re spending the weekend somewhere. I need...well it’s your area of expertise”.

“What do you mean?”

“We’re going undercover-under the cover” he diverted as Damian walked in. He turned the hallway lights off and approached him. His arms encircling his waist as he kissed his neck.

Jordan exhaled with a huff. “I’ll call you back later” and he dropped his phone.

“You sure got comfy” Damian groaned. “You just fit here. In this moment” he started trailing kisses up his jaw. “You sure you don’t want to stay?”

“I am” Jordan smiled. “And that little friend of yours can’t convince me any different” he grinned feeling Damian up against him like that through his towel.

“Want to make a bet?”

“Still remains the same” JD gasped softly, head going down and using his hands to support himself on the furniture even though Damian has a strong grip.

“Feels good, doesn’t it?” Damian licked along his earlobe, two fingers gliding inside him smoothly. The sounds were louder this time than yesterday because the room was quiet. Other than their quickening breaths, that was all.

Damian spun him around, hoisting him onto the dresser. He ripped his towel off and settled between his legs, pulling him all the way to the edge.

“Hmm, fuck Damian” he moaned before Damian silenced him by swallowing his tongue. He guided his thighs till they cradled his waist. Jordan’s arms wrapped round his shoulders.

Just as intense as yesterday. He was starting to reconsider if he would lose the bet because Damian was so fucking good.

“So fucking good” he repeated against JD’s lips.

“Yeah” he just agreed with him. He didn’t know what for.

He hoisted him up again, this time going to the bed, laying him down without removing himself. His fingers gripped the meat of his shoulders before raking down. He wrapped his legs round him, before gripping his hair and kissing him breathlessly.

Now there was a support for both of them, Damian moved like a swimmer. Like he was swimming through deep waters.

“Are you on the pill?” Damian growled. His eyes spoke of nothing but loving this.

“Fuck, just take it tomorrow. Not sure I can’t stop” there was an embarrassing squelch and a pop from between them as Damian thrust his hips harder and deeper by the second.

“I don’t want you to” Jordan admitted desperately.

“You’re amazing JD” Damian pressed his forehead against his, both of them breathing the same air.

A few more thrusts and it was over.

Damian was heavy above him. Sweaty and sticky. His heart was racing. He could feel it against his chest, through Damian’s shirt. Or that was his own heartbeat.

“Still not staying?” Damian asked after a swallow. He was able to catch his breath.

“Rain check” Jordan tested the hold and it had Damian hissing. It felt a tiny bit good. “Takes a while to go down right?”

“Yeah” he caressed JD’s cheek. “And we still have the rest of the night”.

“Can’t think of another way I’d spend my Friday night” he said truthfully before kissing him.

/////

Elton bit his tongue once he heard the front door open. He turned away from his breakfast on the dining table to see JD walk in.

“Have a nice night?”

“Should be asking you that since you’re the one who helped himself to my kitchen” JD walked to the table and helped himself to a pancake.

“So what were you saying yesterday before you got compromised?”

“We’re going undercover” he continued from yesterday.

“Do you have authorization from the Chief or...” he gestured aimlessly with his hands.

“My own operation. And the guy is Seth” he explained.

“I thought that you believed Seth was innocent” Elton said sceptical.

“Yes, but I’ve hit a dead end. If anyone is going to help me, it’s Seth. He’d talk to a hot blonde and their friend faster than he would to the police”.

“Jordan. I trust you but...this is crazy”.

“He’s harmless” he assured him. “Now wax your twat, squeeze into that dress. We’re going to the club that he frequents” JD stood up to get ready.

Elton sighed. “You better be sure about this”.

“I am” he grinned as he made his way to the bedroom.

Hopefully he could still fit into hot pants.

Chapter Text

Rhea sat on the edge of her bathtub. She kept moving the mouthwash around in her mouth. Left, right, up and down. She spat it out in the tub, then she focused on the task. In her hands, a small plastic ball, shaped like an egg, connected to a remote.

On the edge with her there was a bottle of lubricant and she coated her fingers with the substance before taking her hands lower and pushing her fingers into herself.

“Oof” she exhaled. Completely blissed out. Her knees shook and her toes curled on the bath mat. She started to rock her hips onto her fingers. She went slow, then gradually picked up the pace when it started to feel good. She’d hit that spot and was opening herself up more.

“Fuck” she mouthed, tossing her head back.

She couldn’t get carried away. She removed her sticky fingers and got the egg. Coating it just a bit with lubricant then pushing it into herself.

“Ooh” she gasped softly as it went in. She trembled and her body went taut. Her thighs shook tremendously and pulling it apart again, it was wet and sticky.

She sighed.

Sitting up, Dom appeared at the doorway and he yelped. “Sorry. I was just-“ he tried to step back but Rhea stood up.

“It’s okay” she said casually. Like there wasn’t a remote dangling from underneath her shirt. “Did you want to take a shower?” she beamed as she approached him.

“No. I was just-um...I woke up and didn’t see you so-“

“You were worried? Aww” she cooed and placed her hands on his waist just so she could have a closer look at him.

He was fidgety. “I just want to-“

“Wash-up and clean-up. And when you’re done come to the room. I have something for you” she let go of him.

“What is it?” he asked sceptical and he seemed to recoil.

“It’s a surprise” she said teasingly. “Can’t spoil it right?”

She gave him a caress on his lower back before walking out. Dom didn’t say anything as she left. She must have really scrambled his thoughts having him see her like that. But she knew Dom was going to come back.

He knew it too.

All their sexual encounters prior to the basement had been a bit one-sided. And the times she thought it was happening because he wanted it to happen, it was just a plot. Now though, Dom was seeking her out. He was kissing her, following her around. He got excited by her touch.

As she walked back into the room, she opened the curtains and pulled the covers back. The remote hanging between her legs kept hitting her thighs as she moved. She was so excited and nervous.

Today was going to be the day she’d get to be with Dom. To experience him the way she’d only dreamt of. She sat down by her nightstand and opened the drawer. Looking for something to be used as a tie.

She found a bandana. That would work. She folded it before tying it round her thigh. Once it was secure she pressed the button and her eyes nearly bulged out.

She laid back on the bed and took a deep breath. That felt really good.

She heard a door slam shut which caused her to sit up. She turned it off.

It was time.

Dom walked in and she grinned. He still looked uncomfortable. That was to be expected. You’d be nervous the first time with someone new.

“Come sit” she patted the spot beside her for him to come join her. He did so with his head down as she took his hand. He didn’t hold her hand back.

“You seem nervous. It’s radiating off you. You always seem to be shaking” she caressed his arm. The bruises had faded across time. She hadn’t really done anything she didn’t feel compelled to. He’d lied to her, acted and then tried to escape.

But that was in the past. History, just like his bruises.

“I’m cold” he muttered.

“The house has heating” she let go of his hand so she could guide his chin towards her. “Look at me” she whispered, wanting those beautiful puppy eyes on her. She kissed him.

One hand gripping his nape, the other on his lower back pushing him towards her. Dom kissed back. He tasted minty fresh.

There wasn’t a reason for his hands to be up there like he’d just been scared. “You can touch me too” she said encouragingly before kissing him again.

Both hands cradled his cheeks as she deepened the kiss.

“Wait” Dom did touch her, even though it was to hold her shoulders and push her away.

She stopped. “Let me just-can you wait a bit?”

“It’s okay” she did as he asked and he dropped his hands. He didn’t face her anymore, instead he faced forward and leaned down with his elbows on his knees, taking a deep breath.

She got on her knees and caressed his back. “It is overwhelming” she said soothingly. “You just need to breathe alright” she whispered directly against his ear, moving with her knees till she was behind him and gave him a hug. The titanic hug.

She kissed him once below the jaw.

“Your heart is pounding” she hooked her chin on his shoulder.

“It’s supposed to do that” he said pathetic.

“You wouldn’t be scared of me, would you?” she asked too ambivalent.

“No” he said small.

Rhea kissed his neck. “Could have fooled me” she kissed him again, underneath his gland. “Why do you taste so sweet?” and she kissed there again.

He seemed to be raising his shoulder to block her lips, but something else was happening. His breaths were picking up and his scent spiking. She kissed him more, adding her tongue to mix.

He was going weak in her arms. Her arms tightened more around him so they could fall on their side. She stopped focusing on his neck and went back to his lips. Their lips smacking against the other. Wet and hot.

The way she hoped another part of him would be.

“Do you want me to eat you out?” She asked once she touched his thigh.

“No” he whimpered.

“Another time right?” and she pulled his shorts all the way down before depositing herself in-between his legs.

She knelt straight and removed her top. Naked before him. “Can I take yours off too?”

She didn’t wait for an answer. She tugged it up and dropped it on the floor. She placed her hand on his stomach and it instantly sunk in. Hopefully in nervousness.

Her eyes were huge. She’d never forget today. It felt like magic. Just mapping out his skin and not having to pretend with someone else. He reacted, he breathed and twitched. Just proving that he was alive.

“Want to turn it on?” she took his wrist and Dom gasped as she pulled, making him sit up. She guided his hand to her thigh. Where she’d tied the remote.

“Go on” she told him and left his hand to see if he’d press it.

He did and started back when she jerked as it came on.

“Sorry” she laughed. “You know how it is” she placed two hands on his shoulders to pull him closer so they could kiss.

“Dominik” she said fervent. “It’s more than I could ever imagine” she kissed him hungrily. The toy coming alive just egged her on.

There was no more time to waste.

She took her fingers down between them to spread Dom open then align herself. She stopped kissing him, pressing her forehead against his so she’d be able to catch every reaction he made.

He gulped, looking down.

“Rhea-“ he tried again.

“Hey, it’s okay” she shushed him. “Just relax and take a deep breath “.

He swallowed again and closed his eyes.

“Keep them on me Dom” she said feverishly. Then she was moving her hips against him. He couldn’t stall this.

“Wait. Wait, Rhea please wait. I won’t stop you anymore after this” he begged, voice raspy. “Let me just catch my breath” he sounded like he wanted to cry.

She stopped. It sounded like a good bargain.

“Better?” she asked against his lips.

He rolled his lips and nodded. “Okay” he said once he’d finally decided. He looked at her.

He was trembling again.

She pressed closer and she heard his breath hitch, he closed his eyes instinctual. One of his hands gripping her shoulder but he didn’t pull her back or try to stop her, true to his word.

He just tilted his head away, releasing a hoarse breath.

His thighs went rigid against her before relaxing. He was tense for a bit, then he arched his back. He opened his eyes just a little.

She moved again and he released a sharp and long sound like a dog whining. She pressed against him fully. She was completely on him. Lips parted against his jaw, she breathed out through her mouth.

Dom turned his head, facing the other way. She didn’t want to demand anything from him. At least not yet.

She caressed his hip slowly then sucked on his neck, starting a tempo with her hips. His arms tightened around her as he gasped again.

“I like hearing you like that” she growled playfully. “Do you like it Dom? Tell me” her hand came to hold his neck, having him face her.

Dom opened his mouth, but what came out of his mouth was a moan. She stopped to take a deep breath. The sensation of the toy and him. She didn’t want to overwhelm herself.

Her and Dom were breathing the same air and he looked at her questioningly. She snapped her hips against his and they moaned simultaneously.

Her tongue slithered along his lips and entered his mouth, then she picked things back up.

His other hand came to wrap round her back.

“Oh God” Dom moaned against her lips.

“Tell me” she said against his mouth, before trailing kisses down his chin.

“Rhea” his arms weren’t the only thing squeezing her. She thought of going down and removing the toy from herself, but she didn’t want to break any form of contact.

“Tell me” she gripped his hair so they could look the other in the eye.

He groaned and in the lowest voice ever, he answered.

“Yes” and Dom’s hips arched of its own accord, taking her deeper and in an angle she hadn’t been in before.

It was over.

Dom breathed heavily still holding her. She did the same as well, but hers was in happiness instead of exhaustion.

She felt serene. She felt complete.

“You should clean-up so we can have breakfast. Or what’s left of it” she kissed his cheek.

He only nodded.

Dom left to shower and she had to take care of the room. When she was done she went to the bathroom to take care of a few things.

She opened the cabinet and came back with a small transparent pack which she squeezed as she left.

Dom was downstairs. Since she’d gone back to work and didn’t have time to do what she normally did, Dom had started to pick up that he could and should do some of the work instead of just sitting down on his butt all day.

She didn’t care really. She liked a spoilt boyfriend, but one still able to take care of himself when she wasn’t there.

She stepped up behind him and hugged him. Pressing her cheek against his shoulder blades.

“That was amazing, wasn’t it?”

Dom exhaled. “Sure”.

She giggled. “There’s just one more thing” then raised her hand to Dom’s neck.

“OW!” he exclaimed and recoiled instantly, hand pressed against the sore spot on his neck.

Rhea was holding an empty syringe, smiling at him casually.

“Just breathe okay. It’s going to make sense soon” her voice sounded warped and distorted.

Dom’s breath slowed down and his limbs became heavy. He lost his footing and landed on his knees. He didn’t register the pain.

Rhea knelt before him.

“Just calm down okay” she said as his vision began to darken.

He couldn’t fight the darkness pulling him in.

“Don’t fight it” and Dom went unconscious.

/////

Dom woke up with a gasp.

He pushed himself up with his hands and to his honest surprise, he was on the forest floor.

His heart sped up as he looked around in fear. He was in the forest. He was back in the forest. Alone. No sign of Rhea. Just him.

How long had he been here for?

His heart was speeding up and the warning bells in his head was going haywire. He didn’t know what to think aside from him being scared.

“No! No!” he moaned.

Dominik screamed.

He didn’t waste time sitting to try and think about what exactly happened. The last thing he’d remembered was breakfast, but he hadn’t had anything. He hadn’t even drank water this morning. Now he was running around the woods like a lunatic.

He didn’t think of semantics. The how and the why. He just needed to get out of here. Get back to...where exactly?

Why had Rhea let him out when she was adamant of not letting him go? Was she done with him after getting what he knew she always wanted.

So she was okay with him leaving like that? She didn’t care that he’d go to the police? Because that was where he was going to go once he got out of here.

But, why now?

He was in just a shirt, no shoes as he walked. Where would he go from here? Hunger and dehydration would start to take effect soon with this hot Californian sun.

He was walking around in circles.

There was something he woke up with though. A knife strapped to his thigh. Knife, dagger, he didn’t care what it was. He didn’t want to think about the implications.

He was starting to break a sweat when he heard something.

Deep breathing. Harsh and in a rhythm. It sounded guttural. Inhuman. When you heard things you didn’t understand, walk away instead of investigate. He couldn’t do that though.

He’d walked into the path of a bear.

He should just back away and hope the animal didn’t notice him. It was big. Huge on all fours already. If that thing stood it’d squish him completely. So he backed away. He didn’t know if bears attacked humans. What would he do if it did?

He stepped on a branch. It had thorns and pierced his food. He only grimaced. He didn’t scream, but the branch did break. That got its attention.

His heart stopped and he made peace with the fact that going to die today.

The beast looked at him and approached. And he knew it wasn’t because it wanted to be friendly. Injured leg and all, he took off. He had to run. He didn’t turn to see if the thing was following him.

He just took off. Adrenaline kicking his survival instincts into high gear. He just kept running. He didn’t even register any sort of pain. He wasn’t certain he could outrun a bear, but he wouldn’t stop trying.

He was sure he could hear that guttural breathing. The heavy footsteps behind him. He tried to convince himself that it was all in his mind.

He just had to turnaround.

There was a snap. It was followed by a clamp.

Dom went down, back on the ground into a pile of leaves.

He sat up, clutching his knee. He took a deep breath that sounded like a choked sob. There, clamped around his ankle all the way to his leg, a bear trap.

He released a choked sobbed again. Trying to get air into his lungs, but he was breathless.

Dominik screamed. Wretched and in pain. He fell back, holding the contraption. He groaned in agony as he tried pulling it apart. His arms trembled. His whole body shook as he pried it open.

He cried in anguish once it became free.

He felt cold. All the fight had left him. He was tired. He was weak. He tried to crawl but he couldn’t move anything. When he tried crawling there was a spasm that racked his entire frame.

He turned onto his front and shivered. He released a tormented sound as he laid there. There was no more fight. His sweat had turned cold.

He was going to bleed out in the middle of the woods, die and have a bear eat him. How many people had Rhea done this to?

That breathing was close. His mind told him it was above him, but he hadn’t heard footsteps. Or had the rest of his senses dulled? So he could welcome death.

He closed his eyes and exhaled.

Then the thing was roaring. It scared him. That was what made him get up. The animal had stepped in a trap.

That little window had him reacting fast. The dagger had been taped to him. With duck tape. He ripped it off and stabbed the animal in the eye.

It reacted and swiped at him. It connected and took him back a few feet. He clutched his bleeding shoulder. Two bleeding lines. The dagger was still in its eye socket. Bleeding. He wasn’t bleeding fast enough.

Dom groaned as he sat up, looking at the trap that had caught him earlier. He crawled to it quickly. The fear of death, adrenaline, survival. That was what pushed him. He took the trap. He took fast breaths before lifting it and then he swung.

/////

Dominik stumbled about the forest. Cold under the hot summer sun. Sweaty and seeing double. He bumped about into every tree. He didn’t know where he was or where he was supposed to go. The forest was spinning and it was like a kaleidoscope of colours. He dragged his left leg along.

He was so thirsty.

He wanted to throw up.

He gagged and began to retch, but all that came out was saliva. He couldn’t stop. He knew if he did he wouldn’t get back up.

He wiped his chin to get rid of the saliva but all he did was smear more blood on himself.

His toes hit a tree branch and he fell. Landing on his chin. He couldn’t catch himself.

Finding the strength to raise his neck and figure out where he was, he was looking at the house. He hoped it wasn’t a mirage. If it was, he was done for.

So he crawled. Using his chin and his elbows to pull himself. His legs were completely out of it. He was almost there. He couldn’t stop now.

He didn’t know how far. Maybe just six or ten feet away, but it felt far longer than that.

Rhea calmly stirred her tea. It had been a while. She should probably go and check. She sipped her tea and dropped it. As she turned the door burst open.

She stepped back genuinely surprised.

Dom knelt by the door and then he collapsed.

She released a breath as she approached him cautiously. She knew he had a knife. She stood by his head, giving him a critical look before she knelt down.

He looked...horrible.

Now she was a little bit scared.

“DOM!!” she gripped his shoulders.

He looked up at her distressed. “Why would you-why would you do that?” he asked shakily, but it came out raspy.

“I told you” he said sincere. Submissive. “I’m not going to leave” he placed his head on her thigh. “Just don’t...don’t do that. I’m not leaving” he said reverent.

“You won’t leave?” she asked excited and optimistic.

“No” he whispered docile and now that he was back, and safe...Rhea was here. She’d fix it.

He closed his eyes.

Rhea pulled him close. Being unconscious made it harder. The blood was an issue she had to take care of. She slammed the door shut and locked it.

The important thing was that Dom had come back. She’d put him out there and he’d made his way back to her. And he said he wasn’t going to leave her.

She picked him up, carrying him as well as she could in her arms.

This was what she wanted.

His spirit was broken.

She smiled hugely to herself.

I'm in love guys. That's my man!!!

Chapter Text

He visited pubs not clubs. With good reason. And he was here now, leaning against the bar counter with the tightest shorts he’d ever squeezed into. Elton had seen his earlier choice and had changed it.

So here they both were. Two of them dressed tacky as they eyed their suspect in the VIP section.

Elton had been on various undercover missions. Sting operations, prostitution raids. Honeypot they called it.

Elton had told him that they told him he had the looks for it. He had a very trusting face. He could lure people in. The typical bimbo look.

He didn’t know if that was a compliment to be proud of.

But he’d seen the records. Elton was good at what he did. And tonight he was sure that they could get Seth. And they could drive to his place and would get a look since no search warrant had ever been issued against Seth.

So what could he be hiding?

Or who?

Elton was drinking with him. He’d let his hair down and wet it a bit so it could curl. Or that was sweat. Wearing a light blue dress...or a shirt dress with a very low plunging neckline.

And heels.

“How are you going to do this?” JD had to scream in his ear. It made the blonde laugh, wince and step away.

“I’ll handle it. Just let me work and I’ll call you when I’m meant to!” Elton screamed before walking away towards the separated section.

He’d like to believe he was more than his looks. He was smart, he was also street smart. He was many things, but joining the force he was reminded daily he was nothing more than a pretty face. They gave him a desk job. A pretty receptionist to welcome everyone coming in.

And when it was time for him to get on the field it was to put on a costume and have a mic and camera strapped to him so they could watch and hear whatever was happening to him. It was demeaning.

He’d thought different. If anyone could help it had to be Roman, right? The Chief.

He’d been burned one too many and that was enough.

He’d cautioned JD many times. Not like he was trying to discourage him. He just wanted to warn him. Sometimes reaching too high when it wasn’t your place or the right time had consequences. Consequences that were long lasting. And you could never recover.

Looking at JD reminded him of him before his fire burned out. Before the zeal died

Maybe it’d be different for him.

He smiled at the bouncer, making sure to lean closer, his breasts rubbing against him as he slipped a dollar into the man’s pocket.

He was successful when that red rope was pulled back. Seth was in his sights. Drinking alone.

Perfect.

Must just be here to enjoy himself and get away from it all with everything that was happening with the media. He put the smile on his face.

“Oh my gosh!” he said piping. “Aren’t you Seth Rollins?” he said high-pitched and squealed before sitting down heavily on the couch. It made a heavy depressing sound and it caused him to giggle. “I saw you on the news”.

“I’m sure you did” he said coldly. He had the air that he didn’t want to be bothered. This might be tough.

“I am on your side just so you know” the 'pick me’ never failed. Maybe venting to a hot stranger who told him he could do no wrong might be just what he needed.

“Really?” Seth glanced at him but went back to his drink just as quick.

“Uh-huh” he nodded. “You didn’t do anything. You know how bitches are. He couldn’t keep his legs closed and now he got you involved in his shit. It’s quite unfair”.

A pick me fan with hero worship star struck by Seth. Time to lay it on thick.

He shifted closer, making sure their thighs touched and he placed a palm on his thigh, tapping his fingers a bit, being playful.

“You didn’t do anything. You’re innocent. The public just needs someone to blame” he said empathetic and encouraging.

“That interview was just the catalyst-“

“Catholic? I’m Catholic too. So is my friend. He’s down by the bar getting drinks. Are you here alone?” he asked energetic.

“Not a lot of people lining up to go out with an alleged murderer” he said frustrated.

“Aww. Poor thing” Elton placed one hand on his back, the other gripped his arm, pulling it to his chest, having it separate his breasts.

“I’m innocent you know. I didn’t do anything wrong. I didn’t force him into having sex. He was more than eager. And he disappears on his birthday and somehow it’s my fault” he said grim.

He almost felt bad for him. Almost. He couldn’t show it. JD said he believed Seth was innocent, maybe he was.

“Why don’t I invite my friend and we have a nice time together. All three of us. He’s not going to believe I met you!” he shrieked, pressing more against him.

Seth chuckled. “Alright”.

“Yes!” and Seth kissed his cheek.

/////

He got the signal and came over. This was Elton’s area of expertise and he saw why. He couldn’t pretend to save his life. Seth touching him made his skin crawl, his laugh was annoying and his jokes corny.

So he played the quiet tagalong who was content drinking and just reacting. If he didn’t know Elton he’d think he was enjoying himself. And the curls were oddly fitting.

“It’s almost midnight” Elton moaned. “I don’t want to leave” he slurred. “I’m having too much fun with you Seth” he pouted.

The Alpha smirked. “What do you two say about drawing this out a bit?”

“We’re listening” JD was the one to answer. Finally they were getting somewhere.

“I know somewhere not too far from here” he said further.

He glanced at Elton because he didn’t really get it. But he knew Seth wouldn’t refer to his place like that.

For one moment Elton looked confused. “What did you have in mind?” He asked coy, like it wasn’t already obvious.

The place close by was a hotel. Not cheap by any standard. That was the only consolation price.

He’d worn boots. It’d take time in getting them off so he entered first. As Seth closed the door he was all over Elton. All over his back to his ass, like he wanted to become one with him.

He exhaled as he got them off. Seth and Elton had separated and he was leading Seth by the hand towards the bed and pushed him playfully so he could sit.

“Why don’t you order something for us to drink. I’m starving too. And we’ll go get ready” he said velvety as he took JD by the hand and took him to the toilet.

He winked before closing the door.

Elton turned to a visibly angry JD.

“We aren’t at his place. And I don’t know about you, but I’m not fucking that guy”.

“You don’t have to” Elton turned the tap on so he could wash his face and rinse his mouth. “You just have to play for a bit. I’ll take care of it. Trust me” he assured him.

“I did trust you, but see where we are” he hissed.

“Then we try again next time. Tonight, we have to work together. Work with me JD” he pleaded before turning to the door and stepping out.

JD braced himself against the sink as he groaned. He had to do this.

For the case.

He washed his face, along with his hands and mouth. He’d believe Elton.

Walking back out, Seth was on the hotel room phone. Elton was on his side on the bed, hand caressing his inner thigh.

He sat down by Seth and told himself, ‘I’m taking this to my grave’ and he straddled Seth’s thighs. The phone call was done anyway. So he kissed him.

Seth hands felt spidery as they came up his back. He was that not into it. He was thankful he wasn’t put in this usually. He’d ruin every operation.

Elton knelt straight and his hand came rest on his exposed thigh. Elton broke the kiss up so he could kiss him. He was thankful for that. The gratitude was short-lived when he felt a hand playing with laces of the top he’d worn.

He had a lot of date tops. This was strapless and has laces at both sides. Seth pulled the top down. Well he guessed it was Seth since Elton was busy.

The bitch said he’d handle this and so far he hadn’t. He wouldn’t fuck this guy. He had a rule of not fucking people of interest. His eyes widened and he had to stop kissing Elton when Seth put his mouth on him.

His shoulders hunched a bit.

He saw a hand reach up and grip Elton by the hair, pulling him down so they could kiss. Around his nipple. Well that was interesting.

There was a knock at the door. He would have pulled away, but the hand on his waist stopped him. Elton was the one to pull away and walk to the door. Seth did stop and he used the opportunity to get off him. Wanting to be far away from what he’d been feeling underneath.

The waiter-or whatever didn’t enter. Elton was the one pushing the cart in.

“Let’s toast first to tonight” he took the bottle of champagne and uncorked it. He and Seth had to dive for cover.

“Oops. Sorry” he giggled.

“Almost took my head off Prince” Seth chuckled.

He poured three glasses and handed them their glass. He took his and they touched glasses.

“Bottoms up” Elton smiled as they all drank.

Elton was the one to take the glass from Seth before straddling him. JD stood up and went to drop his glass on the cart. How didn’t he notice that his glass was a bit too foamy?

He’d drank a lot tonight that he’d forgotten he hadn’t had dinner. He was starving. Looking at the order it wasn’t so bad. There were even burgers here. With fries.

He heard Elton sigh.

“Is he asleep yet?”

“Out like a light” Elton answered and stood up to come join him. “I’m famished”.

JD turned around to see Seth spread out on the bed like a starfish. He even had his shoes on.

“Do you just carry that with you?” he asked cautious.

“I have free access to certain places because of my assignments” he shovelled fries into his mouth so unattractive. He wasn’t sure Seth would have liked that.

“This was a bust” he groaned.

“There’s always next time” Elton said too carefree. “If you meet a guy and he’s more than eager to take you to his house instead of a hotel, he’s crazy” Elton drank again.

“I just need to set up the perfect crime and before you know we’ll be back at his place” he winked.

“Perfect crime?” he liked the play on words.

“I’m going to give him a night he literally can’t remember” he stated.

“Have you done this before?” he just had to ask.

“No time like the present” he shrugged. “I just fill his head with unreachable expectations and then we do this again at his place and you have your opening” he said encouragingly.

“Will it work?” he asked truthfully.

“I don’t know” he shrugged.

JD sighed. “So what happens now?”

“I’ll be staying the night so he doesn’t think we violated him, then robbed him and left”.

“We could leave a note” he suggested.

“You are so cute” Elton said so derisive. “Are you going to stay? It’s already morning”.

“As much as I don’t want to leave you with a man suspected of kidnapping and murder, I don’t want my night to end like this” he gestured to an unconscious Seth.

“More for me” Elton giggled and sat heavily on the bed. “I need to get out of this dress anyway”.

“You can still come with me” he tried one last time as he picked his boots. He was going to buy slippers at the gift shop.

“It’s alright. I can take care of myself” he started to undress. “Are you going home?” Elton asked as he approached the door.

“Now that you mention it...”

/////

Damian opened the door with a smirk. It did change to a look of confusion when he saw his ensemble.

“What...”

“Don’t ask” he gently pushed him to the side so he could enter. He’d already gotten a lot of looks before arriving here. He’d like to end it now.

“And somehow you still end up spending your weekend here” Damian said smug.

“Don’t get a big head. Your place was closer”.

“Aren’t I lucky?” Damian grinned.

The two of them heard his phone light up. It lit up the pocket of his sweatpants.

“Who’s calling you so early?” JD saw his pocket light up again. This time a text. Multiple influx of texts.

“Probably someone like you” Damian didn’t take it out of his pocket.

“Don’t tell me your other fuck body is going to come here and see me”.

Damian laughed heartily. “Nothing of the sort”.

“Let me just go shower first” JD turned away.

“You need something for your incoming hangover?” Damian stayed back in the kitchen.

He only gave an idle wave before heading to his room.

He was able to wash the feel and stench of Seth off of him and he felt more than relief. Coming out of the shower, he saw folded change of clothes on the top of the hamper.

He hadn’t heard him come in.

He could bet Damian was excellent at stealth.

He changed and coming out of the bathroom, there was a glass of water on the nightstand. With two pills. He took that first before going to the dresser trying to detangle his hair.

Two strong arms just happened to wrap round his shoulders. Damian rested his chin on top his head. He didn’t say anything so he just continued as he was.

“Are you feeling sleepy?”

JD only shrugged. It must be uncomfortable trying to fix your hair and someone just attached themselves to you. But JD was no longer fixing his hair.

“Jordan?” Damian whispered.

Looking into the mirror his eyes were unfocused. Rolling up into his skull, then going left, then right, down and finally back up.

He was sure he was the only thing keeping him up from falling and hitting his head on the dresser.

Damian hugged him tighter. “It’s alright. Just go to sleep” he whispered into his ear, waiting for him to go limp and for his eyes to finally close.

It didn’t take long.

And once JD was in bed he could relax. His phone lit up again. Another text.

‘S.O.S”.

/////

For once she could admit that she was stumped on what to do. She had no idea and was starting to feel the pressure weighing on her.

The first thing of concern was the blood. She had expected him stepping on something. It was the woods. But a bear trap? How hadn’t he seen that?

It didn’t meet bone. That was the only good thing. She stopped the bleeding and took care of the injuries and with medication. That was meant to be it, right?

He’d sleep it off.

But then Dom ran a fever. Then the vomit which wasn’t too bad. She would take care of him.

Then he became delirious.

Maybe it was the fever, maybe the medicine or just a way to fight the immeasurable pain he’d never experienced.

It got too much then. And he wouldn’t stay put. She thought of strapping him in place then she got introduced to Dom’s lung capacity and his water percentage.

He screamed bloody murder the entire time and he cried. He just didn’t stop. So she let him do as he pleased. Not like he could walk on both legs, but he surprised her getting out of bed just to crawl.

The fever came back with a vengeance and trying to take care of that, when she got close Dom would react badly. And trying to force it didn’t go well. He’d bit her so hard. If he hadn’t bitten her fingers she was certain Dom would have taken out a huge chunk of her flesh.

She was scared though. Scared that the stitches would reopen, that he’d bleed out and die because he didn’t want her help. Or that the fever would take him.

So she took her loss and asked for help.

“Dominik?” he’d gone to the bathroom and she only poked her head in every five minutes just to make sure he was still... present. If he felt safe inside she wouldn’t step in.

She stepped aside so that she could turn the lights on. “Go on” she mumbled.

She folded her arms and leaned against the wall. If this didn’t work she was going to have to take him to the hospital. And that was what she didn’t want to, but if she had no other choice...

Damian walked out of the bathroom. “We’re good”.

She looked broody. She wouldn’t celebrate just yet.

And just like that, it was like the past few hours didn’t happen. Dom was quiet, sitting on Damian’s lap, arms wrapped round his neck and head resting on his shoulder.

She’d leave him like that for a while. The stitches still held and the fever was coming down.

So it was because of her. Good to know.

“So this is the infamous Dominik Mysterio” he ran his hand down Dom’s back continuously. “He’s quite taller than I imagined”.

“How did you expect him to be? You saw the profile” she grumbled.

“You described him as this dainty fragile thing. I was expecting some soft boy” he laughed.

“Glad you can make a joke right now” she crudely remarked.

“Sorry Rhea. When I saw your S.O.S message, this wasn’t how I expected to spend my night. Now there’s another one in my bed passed out. Instead of getting my dick wet, I’m here. Think about that!” He said harshly.

She swallowed her retort. “Thank you Damian. I know it’s a tough decision”.

Both their heads turned to the door at the sudden knock. Dom shivered in his arms.

“Expecting someone?” he mumbled as he caressed Dom’s hair..

“Who else would be at my door at fucking three” she said under her breath as she marched to the door. She opened it and in walked Finn.

Dom’s eyes settled on him.

“Thank you for coming” Rhea locked the door.

“I honestly don’t know why you called me. I’m not the conventional doctor. Don’t you think he should be in a hospital?” he came to stand in front of the couch.

“Seems like our only option. I don’t see him lasting a week Rhea” he said conciliatory.

Dom shrunk more into Damian, trying to disappear.

“Does he remember me?” he said to the side towards Rhea.

“Dorian Grey? Really?” Rhea asked condescending.

“So you weren’t in Ireland?!” Damian asked terse.

“I did go. Not before a little stop on the way” he gestured to Dom who buried his face in Damian’s chest.

She’d decided to shock the back of the head instead of striking him like she had intended. It wasn’t as messy. And no blood to clean-up. He went down quickly. She didn’t want his face touching the dirty alley floor, so she grabbed his hair quickly before he could reach.

“Aww” she cooed. He’d have passed out in the presenting position. What a way to tease her. Looking down at his face, he’d passed out.

He still held onto the boxes though. That was weird.

She took the boxes first, tossing the boxes carelessly inside before carrying him on the shoulder. The canoe that he’d helped her carry was modified. The seats had been removed and it’d been padded up all over on the inside.

It’d be able to fit a tall person like Dom. And if it didn’t, she’d just have to bend his knees. It wouldn’t be that long of a drive. Once Dom was settled in, she observed him. Completely dead to the world.

After so long, she had him.

She closed the door with too much force than she needed to, but she was trying to send a message. And she knew it was received when the van came to life.

“Why did I agree to do this again?” Finn asked as he helped her later on in offloading the canoe from the back. A moving van could only go so far in the woods.

“Because of me you’re going back to Ireland” she reminded him. "Now don’t talk too much and help me” she grunted.

Finn looked into the canoe after he heard a groan. Dom was awake, but he couldn’t move as much. He hadn’t figured out his situation yet.

“Your boy’s awake” Finn grinned.

“Leave him alone”.

“What did you say?” Damian looked down at Dom.

“Taken a shinning to Damian” Finn commented. “Nice”.

 Damian sighed. “What’s the plan Rhea?”

She sighed. “I didn’t want to have to do it now, but I guess I’m going to have to move this up”.

“Move what up?” Damian sounded concerned and it wasn’t because of Rhea’s crestfallen tone. Something was happening to the kid on his lap.

He was getting warmer, but he was certain it wasn’t sickness. He had to take his nose closer.

“I have to go get-“

“No” Dom moaned. “Rhea don’t go” he said frightened. He even reached weakly for her.

“Now you want me” she rolled her eyes fond, before walking back to the couch and she held her arms out so he could fall into them.

“Did you ever consider heat?” Damian said and it caused everyone to go silent.

“Oh!” Rhea exclaimed. “Could have been that” she said unremorseful.

“So this plan?” Finn asked before they all got carried away. “A heat won’t stop whatever might be happening to him”.

“We’ll get to that” she said outspoken.

“But for now it’s to take care of him” she was instantly loving. She lifted him up, wrapping one of his legs round her lower back. “Mami is going to make it all better” she cooed.

“You guys don’t have to leave...” she didn’t finish that sentence knowing that they all understood.

“What a waste of my time” Damian stood up.

“You’re going to tell her this is crazy right? Because she only listens to you” Finn said quietly as he watched her go upstairs.

“She said she’s got a plan. We just have to trust her” Damian held the collar of his shirt up to his nose. He frowned.

“And if this fails... like we both know it’s going to?” the two of them walked to the door.

“Then we do what friends do” and he opened the door. He had to be home quick.

He didn’t need anymore problems as it was

“Hope you’re right” and they left Rhea to her own devices.

She was going to have quite the fun morning.

Chapter Text

She wouldn’t get carried away. Dom was still injured. But how could she ignore that cute face literally begging for her touch.

Luckily it was a mild heat because of her decision. It was wise of her to not cut off his suppressants completely.

She kissed him again which had become one of her favourites...amongst other things. It was a shame there wouldn’t be enough time for both of them to explore before...she pulled back a little bit, eyeing his wrapped up leg.

“All that trouble and you couldn’t tell me it was because of your heat” she teased. She should have noticed. Dom was the one trying to pull her down for a kiss.

He whined when he got denied. Where had this Dom been the entire time? She doubted they had slept at all. She didn’t need the sleep. She was just content laying on top of him, kissing him, sharing body heat.

She didn’t want to stop touching him. She didn’t want to get off him. She didn’t want to pull away.

But they both had to eat, she had to clean here up. Even though she loved how strong and potent his scent currently was. Hot, but still satisfied.

She pulled her hips back and watched him tremble. She caressed his inner thighs and smiled satisfied. She gripped his hips and began to pull him along with her towards the edge.

“Let’s run you a bath then we go down for breakfast” she said happily.

“I don’t want to” he mumbled.

“But you have to” she tutted. “We have to make you presentable. Camera ready if that’s more of your thing. So come on” she pulled him by the collar so he’d sit up. She had to be gentle with him.

“I can’t wait for this haze to clear. I can already imagine your face when this is over” and she lifted him up, hooking his uninjured leg above her hips before walking out.

/////

JD opened his eyes with a gasp. He inhaled deeply and looked around the room. He was in his room. Alone.

He blindly searched for his phone on the nightstand. And once he found it, he grabbed it and brought it above his face. He squinted at the brightness and groaned.

He put it by his side and massaged his eyelids. It was Monday and he had to go in for work. He turned on his stomach and covered his head with a pillow.

Thank goodness it wasn’t his turn to pick up the morning pastry orders. He just wanted coffee and then go unconscious. His head was pounding and the rest of his body was heavy and on fire.

Could he call last minute?

Roman wouldn’t like it. His tits wouldn’t get him his way all the time. He rolled out of bed and landed on the floor with a thud.

“OW!” he whimpered.

He actually wore shades to work like he was a movie cop. And he had stopped for a huge cup of coffee from Starbucks. Hopefully this would get him through the day, or he’d beat Shaun with a baton. Or maybe knock himself out.

He could go hide in the evidence room. He didn’t feel the best and wanted to just be alone till this feeling passed. He was sure he didn’t drink that much.

“Hey Drew” that was Elton’s voice. He wondered what did happen. Well he got the answer that nothing bad had happened. Seth didn’t seem to have thoughts that anything went bad because Elton was sitting on Drew’s desk and flirting like he normally would.

So nothing was amiss.

He didn’t receive any texts the whole of Sunday. He was worried. Seth wasn’t dead, was he?

He cleared his throat and Elton looked over his shoulder. He showed exactly how displeased he was at being interrupted. He didn’t feel all that bad now that he could focus on something else.

His mission.

“I’ll see you later Drew” he said softly as he stood. He didn’t turn away until he was in front of JD. He turned to face him and the two of them walked to the common area. Not a lot of people were in here during the day. Unless they didn’t have patrol.

So they could talk without interruption or being eavesdropped on. “Glad to see you’re alive” he began.

“Yeah. No thanks to you” he huffed. “I had to spend my Sunday morning with someone I didn’t know. We talked and...I do genuinely feel bad for him. He sounds so alone, so isolated” he said sympathetic.

JD sighed. “I’m not sure he’s the one too. Either that or he’s a good liar and we might be his next victims” he folded his arms.

“Well you’re in luck. We have another date scheduled for Friday. I told Seth that you were an assistant manager at a boutique that’s why you had to leave before he woke up” Elton said smug.

“He really does believe that the three of us really...how?” this he was way eager to know.

“He remembered us kissing and the part he doesn’t remember you fill in the blanks. Stroke his ego the way I stroked his imaginary dick” he winked.

“And we both woke up naked. You think he’d think nothing happened?” he asked assertive.

“And how did your Sunday go? Did you sleep the whole day away? I’m sure you didn’t drink that much”.

Sunday was strange to him. If he didn’t remember getting up and putting his key into his door, he’d have believed he’d just been whisked away and put in his bed.

He honestly thought that maybe he’d been drugged just like Seth had. Maybe it had been transferred through a kiss. But Seth only had the drink after they kissed.

Whatever Damian gave him must have knocked him out. What sort of painkiller did Damian give him?

“Did you blackout immediately you got home?” he asked chatty.

“I went to...a friend’s. Then I fell asleep” it hurt his head remembering. He woke up in Damian’s arms.

Then he got dressed and left. He arrived at home, had some food, took a shower and fell back into bed. Damian had convinced him to stay, but he really didn’t want to.

Something didn’t feel right.

He’d mentioned something about Damian’s other lover showing up and coming to see two of them together. He woke up in Damian’s arms and there was something odd in his strong scent.

Damian smelt like dark coffee, like cocoa powder, ground coffee beans. Where did the sweetness come from? His scent was mild, but not sweet.

Where did the sweetness come from?

It sure as hell wasn’t him. So Damian had someone over when he was asleep? Or he went out to go see someone? It just put a lot of things in perspective. What did he know about Damian?

Apart from them working together and now sleeping together, what else? He had to imagine what if it wasn’t Damian? What if it was someone else and he trustingly took a pill? He’d be at their mercy, completely dead to the world.

So he had to take a step back. He had a case to crack. The sooner he disproved Seth, the sooner they could find another lead.

Then maybe after that, he’d revisit this with Damian.

“Well get pretty on Friday. The two of us are heading to casa Rollins” he said dignified.

JD breathed out through his mouth. His heart galloped. This was what he wanted and in a few days he’d get his opportunity. Why wasn’t Elton nervous like him? He hadn’t really considered what would happen if he got that opportunity. And now he had it.

He had four days to think.

“Thank you Elton” he said genuine. Appreciative.

“I got you. Always” he grinned. “I trust your judgement” he said earnest.

He was glad someone did.

Four days.

It was him against the clock now.

/////

“I got you a six pack of your favourite” Rhea said colloquial as she sat on Damian’s desk. “I can give you after work. We go to dinner at your place. What do you say?” she asked hopeful.

“And that...” Damian stopped. “Should you even be here? With that situation-how did you even pull that off? The whole time he’s been with you. A full blown person...”

Rhea only shrugged and it infuriated him.

“So what now? What are you going to do? You can’t just return him. He has a mouth. He will talk. I assure you that you won’t be as nonchalant as you are right now” he said harshly.

She just brushed it off. Damian was just jumpy because Dom had seen his and Finn’s faces.

“He’s not going to speak. Trust me” she said affirmative.

He looked at her uncertain. Right now, he couldn’t trust her. And that was saying something. She was one of the closest people who he could say he trusted with his life. But now...how didn’t he notice?

“How are you sure?” he asked unconvinced.

“Trust me on this, will you?” she placed her hand over his and gave him this hopeful look.

He sighed, pulling his hand back. “You haven’t come over for dinner in almost two months...” she said she was on vacation so he never guessed something was up. But now, it made sense.

“...you want something” he said direct. “What do you want?”

“You really are my other half” she grinned. “Nothing can get past you, can it?”

He just gave her a blank stare. Her smile didn’t waver though. “You are right. I do need your help with something. It’s very important” she drawled. “Oh bestie of mine, will you be able to help me?”

“With what?” he asked annoyed.

“Not here. During dinner at your place” and she slipped off his desk. “Just to know, will you be free Friday night?” she asked, her tone honeyed.

“I have no plans so far” he said dully.

“Great. We’re set then” and Rhea walked away.

Damian sighed and leaned back in his chair. He didn’t like this at all. But in situations like these, best to always have a contingency plan. His gun in the holster was cold and heavy against his ribs.

If all else failed, nip it in the bud.

/////

“Let’s say you don’t find anything at all, you don’t find what you’re looking for, in this case a who, what then? What’s your next move?”

JD gestured with his eyes towards the back of the head of the driver. He didn’t want a stranger listening to what they were planning, then going to the police. He waited till they were out of the car and had paid the man. Then he elbowed Elton.

“Ow!” he whined, rubbing his left boob. “I’m not hoping to find Dominik there. I just need to find signs that Dominik was there and if he isn’t, maybe signs that he could be elsewhere. There’s been no body found. Either Dom is alive somewhere or dead and hidden somewhere. If that’s the case, Seth has had more than enough time to clean-up”.

“Okay, there’s that. But let’s say there’s the unfortunate chance of us not finding anything in his home, it’s not going to be easy drugging him again. And this time you’ll be taking one for the team” Elton smiled as they made their way up to the gate.

“I’m hoping with everything in me that I’m right. There’s nothing I find attractive or pleasant about that man” he muttered.

“Damian is more your type, huh?” he winked and both of them stood in front of the gate.

“Is there an intercom-does he know that we’re here?” they got their answer with the gate sliding back on its own. It wasn’t as noisy as he thought it would be.

They stepped in and as they approached the house, Seth stood there, standing by the door. Stupid grin and he decided to wave. Elton let go of his arm and skipped towards him, jumping onto him so they could hug.

“I missed you so much” and they exchanged a peck.

It was now or never. Only one chance. And he couldn’t screw it up. So he stepped closer and planted a kiss on Seth’s lips. He couldn’t be cold when the guy already thought they had sex.

“Okay. Let’s head inside” Seth held both their wrists.

Every possible scenario of how things could turn out began to play in his head. What if Seth had accomplices inside waiting for them? And they didn’t have backup?

If this went sideways and they survived, he had quite the story to tell.

“What do you have planned for us tonight Seth?” Elton hugged him from behind. Already kissing at his neck, nuzzling his cheek into his neck too.

“I put some drinks on ice, you can help yourself to whatever you want in the fridge. It’s just a bit after eight. There’s no need to rush” he said lazily.

“No need at all” JD smirked. He didn’t like the man, but he liked his thought process. The more time they wasted, the more time he’d have to tour.

“Then can we order some food?” Elton whispered. “Need to get my strength up for what’s to come” he said playfully before biting his ear. Then he let go.

Both Omegas removed their jacket. It was a Friday night. They didn’t clock out all that long ago. A lot of effort went into getting ready, making yourself pretty and finding the appropriate clothes. But it was Friday and they knew they’d be indoors.

He didn’t drive to work today and Elton didn’t have a car. They changed at work. You could wear jeans anywhere, couldn’t you?

“This house is grand” JD commented. “Would you mind giving us a tour?”

“After he orders pizza” Elton said put off.

He wasn’t mad. He was huge help and what he wanted out of it was pizza. Seth made the order, then he began to lead them around. For a suspect, he sure acted as someone that had nothing to hide.

The tour of the first floor was the living room, the kitchen, over the patio there was a pool. He even had a Jacuzzi as patio furniture. There was a cellar and nothing stood out. No rotten smell or the harsh smell of bleach. There was no refrigerator to hide a body or pile of rubbish. There was no new job that had been done. Like redoing the floors.

He might be quiet, but Elton was doing all he could to keep his attention on him. First floor was done. Second floor was the rooms. He showed his study first. All the doors were closed.

He lived alone and probably didn’t have a lot of people sleeping over. And if they did, it’d probably be in his room. Like where they’d sleep tonight. So it wasn’t odd.

He’d still like to go in and check.

And that study of his. Could there be like a hidden compartment if he pulled a book back? Seth didn’t let them enter. Maybe because Elton came off as a klutz.

“And the final stop on our tour-“ they stood in front of the last door. The one at the very end.

“But what about the third floor. What’s up there?” Elton asked innocently.

“It’s the roof” Seth answered.

“Is there a pool or Jacuzzi up there too?” JD asked coyly.

“There is but-“ a loud ring suddenly came from nowhere and cut him off. He and Elton were trained cops. Any sudden sounds or movements they were at alert and wanted to find out what that was.

Seth got his phone out unbothered. He must have chalked it up to fear and surprise. “It’s motion sensors. There’s someone at the gate” he explained.

“Pizza is here” and Seth walked away from the door. Heading back towards the stairs. “I’ll come with” Elton offered. He shared a look with him, asking him questions.

He gestured to the locked doors. He’d probably find a bunch of keys in the study, so that was where he was going to go start the search. And he had to be quick about it. Waiting till after meant...he didn’t see Elton swipe anything from work. He had to be fast.

He followed after Elton, who walked behind Seth. “Oh. I need to use the bathroom!” he called from the top then ran back where they came. He pushed the study door open, very softly and he heard something.

Like a crash.

He wasn’t inside the office so he knew what he heard. Something fell. And it wasn’t from downstairs. This sounded muffled. Like something was blocking the sound from coming out. Like maybe a closed door.

He could hear his blood pumping in his ears as he turned towards Seth’s bedroom. His breaths picked up in trepidation. Why was he trying to scare himself? It could be nothing.

The wind could have knocked something off.

With a gulp he opened the door.

He was stunned breathless. Speechless too. Because there on the bed was Dominik Mysterio. Asleep. Well he looked asleep.

He hoped he was asleep and Seth wasn’t some psycho. His phone was downstairs and he didn’t bring any protection with him.

He ran towards the man and knelt beside the bed. “Dominik!” he hissed with urgency. “Mr. Mysterio!” he shook him.

Black eyes fluttered open. He looked around disoriented, confused and scared. Then his eyes landed on him. He knew he was about to scream so he covered his mouth quickly.

“Shh! Shh! It’s okay” he pressed his palm tighter. “I’m going to help you. You’re going to be okay” his eyes glistened. He was talking behind his palm, so he gave just a little bit of separation.

“No. No” he shook his head quickly. It came out muffled, but Dom was imploring. He gripped his wrist. “Please” he was frantic in his whispering. “It’s-“ and Dom’s eyes went up in fright. “Look-“

And he was being grabbed from behind. A thick arm went round his neck and he was lifted up from the floor. He uselessly kicked and struggled. He knew he should breathe from his nose and let his attacker think he was dead, but he couldn’t think straight.

Seeing Dominik Mysterio in front of him, looking into his teary fearful eyes, he swore he could almost see the face of his assailant in Dominik’s pupils.

The darkness was creeping in from the corners of his eyes, he couldn’t breathe and with the curved angle, he knew he wasn’t getting out of it. His mind was telling his body already to be still. His eyes became heavier.

This was strangely reminiscent.

He was half certain that he heard another crash, but it sounded distorted. It could be his mind playing tricks on him. They said before death, life flashed before your eyes. Guess he was different.

JD went unconscious.

.

.

.

.

.

He gasped awake just to be pushed down.

“He’s awake!” the voice sounded indistinct.

Where was he? He was alive!

He tried to sit up again, but was pushed down.

“Jordan! JD!” his hearing came back and his eyes seemed to have adjusted. The pain on his head came suddenly. He hissed, taking both hands up. His fingers brushed past something once he passed his neck.

Elton was at the door of the ambulance. He looked roughed up. “Thank goodness you’re okay!” he cried and despite his state, he hugged him.

He hissed, but didn’t push him away.

“I-I don’t. What’s happening?”

“What’s happening is that Seth is going to jail” Rhea just appeared from the side. “Like we had said earlier” she snidely remarked. “If you hadn’t chosen to act out of order, we wouldn’t have found Dominik Mysterio. So congratulations...partner. You did it!” she said reverent as she congratulated him.

“Dominik is alright?” he asked aloud.

Elton nodded. “Your intuition was right”.

He looked past the door to see paramedics coming out of the house, wheeling along a stretcher. He couldn’t see that far, but he hoped that was Dom.

“Where’s Seth?”

“In the car” she said objectively. “I’ll handle the chief. Make sure he doesn’t go too hard on you. You two go get patched up. You really did good out there JD” she said sincere.

She nodded at the paramedic before stepping away.

The door closed shut and the ambulance began to move.

Elton ushered him back down and he felt the urge to vomit.

“What even happened back there?” he closed his eyes, disgruntled.

Elton took his hand. “You don’t remember?”

JD paused and opened his eyes. That question unsettled him a bit and it made his forehead throb. It just rubbed him the wrong way a bit knowing this was Elton’s are of expertise. But he had nothing to fear.

What would Elton gain from lying to him?

“No” he answered truthfully. He couldn’t .

 Elton smiled. Forced himself more like because it came off like a grimace. Wry.

“Where do I start?” he said breathy.

Chapter Text

Dom gasped awake then he went into a coughing fit. He forced himself to calm down and with red wary eyes he looked around the room. The first thing he saw was the slumped figure of his dad.

He gasped.

He was seated on another bed, against a wall and had fallen asleep. Dad was here. It was real. Everything that happened, was it a nightmare?

He tried to get up, but he flinched. His leg. He gripped the cover and once he pulled it back he swallowed painfully.

It wasn’t a dream.

Then why was he...

“You’re finally awake” he instantly went rigid. That voice.

He turned his neck and she was standing there on his left. Just leaning against the wall. How had he missed her? How did he get here?

Why was he here?

She stepped closer and he tried to make himself small, trying to curl in on himself. She didn’t touch him though. The barricade that stopped him from falling separated them.

“That’s your dad, isn’t he?” she didn’t need to turn around. She’d been around him for a while so this wasn’t her first time close to other members of his family.

He didn’t answer.

“You do look like him a bit” she stated. “Look at him so peaceful. So oblivious to things happening around him. So susceptible to literally anything that could happen just asleep like that” and she turned around.

“I’m not even sure being awake would make that much of a difference” and she laughed.

What was she implying? He tried to ask that, but his voice failed him. He was petrified. She’d done this to him and here she stood, saying that she could do the same to his dad.

And he knew she could. And the scary thing was that it wasn’t just his dad. It could be anybody.

She stepped back. “The chief wants to speak to you” she stepped aside. And just as she did, the Chief walked in.

Tall, broad, curly hair and intimidating. He could feel his fingers shaking already. And it was then dad woke up.

“Dom?!” his dad gasped.

“Dad” he cried. He’d finally found his voice. Rhea stepped back to give the father and son space for their reunion.

Dom cried as he touched his dad. Something he hadn’t done in a very long time. Who knows how long? He’d lost the concept of time since he opened his eyes to see Rhea.

A comforting familiar touch in who knows how long. If this turned out to be a very vivid dream, if he somehow woke up on Rhea’s couch, he wouldn’t survive it.

That would kill him for sure.

“I’m sorry to ruin the moment Mr. Mysterio...” Rhea was the one to apologize and she sounded sincere. Like she really felt bad interrupting them.

“We need to take Dominik’s statement” Dom didn’t want to let go of his dad. He wanted to scream, but when dad let go, he held onto his hand.

Dad looked into his eyes, placed his hand on his cheek and nodded. “It’s okay Dom. You can tell them what happened”.

His eyes stung. Like he was getting stabbed by a thousand tiny needles.

The Chief looked at him. Silently. Waiting.

He looked at his dad and sniffed.

He’d made his decision.

/////

He saw this person get choked out till he went unconscious. He didn’t know who he was, but he seemed to know him. He’d said his name. Said he wanted to help him.

He’d been sluggish. He’d messed it up because he couldn’t get his words out. And now this person was unconscious. Just slumped against Rhea’s tall friend. And he’d been...he just sat there.

And now he was crying silently. Uselessly.

Rhea walked into room. More like stormed in and he had to force himself to stop crying. He didn’t even know why he was...where was he?

“What the fuck is he doing here?!” she demanded. She was seething and it made him nervous.

Damian let go of the guy. His body dropped forward. Lifeless. His head hit the edge of the bed on the way down.

Dom closed his eyes.

“Crap” Damian groaned and bent down to check on him.

“Leave him alone!” Rhea was mad. This wasn’t how it was meant to go. Just what the hell was JD doing here?

It was meant to be simple. Drop Dom off here, then show up with a search warrant. Arrest Seth. Finn was a master of disguise. He’d gotten her a truck and somehow he’d been able to reach out to Seth who had some trouble with his air conditioning.

It had been easy to transport another truck. It wasn’t hard to print some company logo and Dom was put in a body bag that could pass off as a tool bag.

The house had cameras yes, but who was going to check it? They were the ones. But now there was this.

“This plan of yours Rhea-“

“Shut the fuck up!” she growled. She looked at Dom. “Let me think!”

They heard the footsteps but there was really nothing that they could do. They couldn’t hide, there was already an unconscious, probably dead body on the bedroom floor.

Seth appeared in front of the door.

“Seth!” Dom screamed. Actually tried to dive off the bed, but it wasn’t to run to safety.

“What the hell-“

“SETH!” he screamed again.

But it was too late. He was struck from behind. He screwed as Seth fell. Even with his leg he wanted to get to him, but Rhea gripped the robe she’d put on him and put him back on the bed.

He fell back and he cried.

“Well isn’t this a bitch” Finn walked over him.

“Is that...WHAT THE FUCK DID YOU DO RHEA?!” he barked.

“Don’t yell at me right now!” she screamed back.

“I knew it” he said resigned. “I told you Damian and look at this mess. That guy has seen us, your boy has seen us. And-“

There was a soft gasp and they all turned to the door.

“Just great!” Finn said restrained.

Elton stuttered even though he hadn’t said a thing. He looked around the entire room, the last person he looked at was Dominik. He looked ready to bolt, but he was still undecided. Eyes lingering on JD’s fallen body.

Damian approached him and Elton stepped back.

“It’s okay” Damian said in that deep smooth baritone of his and it wasn’t comforting. Damian grabbed him by his flimsy top and pulled him into the bedroom.

Elton tripped, falling on his face and he didn’t get up.

“Hope your plan has something in it to fix this” Finn said scathing.

“Let me think” she said enraged.

“Think fast Rhea. They’re not going to stay down forever” he said indignant.

“Or can they” Rhea muttered.

“What?!” Damian was gobsmacked.

And Rhea got her gun from the holster behind her belt. Finn grabbed her wrist. “What the fuck?!”

“We’ll say collateral damage” she shoved Finn off.

“Rhea, you can’t” Damian said intense.

“No witnesses” she said scornful.

“You shoot them I shoot your boy” and Finn wasn’t bluffing. Rhea wasn’t the only one with a gun. And Finn showed her exactly that by taking his gun out and aiming at Dominik.

“Seriously?! You two-“

“You better drop it Finn” she warned, moving to stand in front of Dominik who had gone silent and white with fear.

“You drop it!”

It was a stand-off.

Rhea was the first to lower her gun and Finn followed. “Your plan failed. Admit it” he said barbed.

She scowled. “Well what do you suggest we do?!” she said restrained.

“Luckily I was the only one who thought ahead” Finn said snide, before walking out.

Elton had his face up. Looking at Damian and Rhea. “Please-Damian please, don’t kill me. I won’t tell a soul. I swear” he said submissive.

Rhea looked at him with nothing but contempt before heading back towards the bed. The guy, Dominik was shaking in fright and Rhea pulled him in close for a hug.

He cried in her hold. “It’s okay baby. Finn was just being a dick. Don’t worry about it”.

Damian gripped Elton by his hair and lifted him up. He dragged him out of the room, his feet dragging uncomfortably on the hardwood floor.

/////

Finn’s great idea to fix this was calling Roman. It was a mess and they knew they needed help. Who else could they call?

Roman wouldn’t be her first or last choice. She was going to get quite the query, the disappointed lecture, and many more, but if he could fix it then she’d take whatever she was given.

Now they were all downstairs. Apart from Dom and the other two rendered unconscious.

Elton was sat on couch, hands folded on his thighs and head down. Like a kid who knew he was in trouble. Damian didn’t take his eyes off him. Rhea looked sulky and Finn was thoughtful.

Roman walked in and it didn’t take long for him to assess the situation. “Are all of you dumbasses?” Roman didn’t sound mad even though he was. He still managed to act cool. Level-headed.

“You’re one of the best Rhea so I’m most disappointed in you” he said judgmental. She couldn’t look at him.

“I don’t care what any of you do in your free time but be fucking smart about it. Now I got to leave my family at this time of the night to come clean up your mess?! Are you children?!” he barked.

“I didn’t count on Jordan...on one of ours being here” she mumbled. “We didn’t know they were both carrying out their own investigation. They weren’t meant to be here-“

“Meant to be here, not meant to be that’s not the issue Ripley. You were meant to know!” he said harshly. “How hard was it when you were both on the case?!” he asked dispassionate.

“And Damian?! You have no idea what was going on?” he said disparaging.

He glared at Finn and exhaled. “Jordan is unconscious, as well as Seth. Seth saw you and Dominik saw everything?”

“Yes sir” Rhea spoke docile.

He exhaled deeply. “Go talk to him and make sure you handle that” he said condescending. “As for Seth, don’t worry about it-“

“And what about him?” Rhea looked past him to the blonde that sat on the couch.

“I’ll handle it just like how I’ve been handling everything tonight. No one needs to die if they don’t have to. No need for unnecessary bloodshed. What the hell is wrong with you?” he asked disapprovingly.

“Finn, call the paramedics. Damian with me!” he ordered.

“Thank you chief” she smiled.

He didn’t answer her. “Watch him” he gestured with the tilt of his neck.

“And if he runs?” she asked honeyed.

He still didn’t answer.

He made his way towards the stairs.

“All for one...” she called after him.

Roman disappeared up the stairs.

“And one for all” she completed herself. They had no one but the other. Now she felt like a huge burden had been lifted off her and the night didn’t seem so bleak anymore.

“...and-and that’s what happened” Dominik said quavering. Dad had been by his side the entire time and Rhea had held his other hand throughout his statement.

/////

Recovery had its moments. He got to see his family and friends again. He missed his mum, he missed his sister. To think that he actually stood a chance of not seeing them again.

But at what cost?

Everyone wanted to continue like nothing happened. He should be grateful for that. That no one was judging him, no one was blaming him regarding his situation. What they thought happened.

His phone wasn’t with him yet. The Chief has said, “for evidence”. And he couldn’t find the remote. They put the channel in Telemundo and didn’t change it. He wanted to know the news. He wanted to know what was happening.

He wanted to know what happened to Seth.

“Have you heard anything from Raquel?” he asked his dad. All he had psychically was an injured leg. He didn’t need to be smothered the way he was. He could feed himself. But in their mind, they thought he might have been dead.

“Don’t bother yourself with that Dom” dad said ambivalent.

“I have to. This affects her. This situation-“

“Dom” his dad cut him off. “Just focus on recovery. Raquel is...let’s just say she doesn’t want to be involved. But you should know it’s not your fault. No one is blaming you. You didn’t know any better...”

He stopped listening to dad. He did know better. At this moment no one knew what he knew apart from the people that “saved” him.

He wanted to ask about Seth, but dad seemed to be avoiding his name. Just like he who shall not be named.

“Just don’t worry about it. Focus on yourself” and that was what everyone told him.

They all took turns staying with him, like they were guarding him. And when he tried to broach the topic, they always stopped it or found a way to divert.

But one thing they did want to know though was what was going on between Rhea and him. Since he just met her and knew her less than the family who had only seen her a handful of times, but anytime they showed up Rhea was there. Either sitting with him on the bed or on the chair, holding his hand.

Since that first night he’d been “found”.

“Didn’t you just meet her a week ago?” Aalyah commented.

“Doesn’t she work? One would think she doesn’t with how she’s always here” mum had said in passing.

“Are cops this close to...I mean we only saw her once” dad asked him.

“It’s like the two of you have met before” Austin had joked and he hoped he didn’t just how affected he had been by those words.

Because that was the truth.

Thoughts had plagued him on how this was going to end. If he said something Rhea would do something drastic. Like hurt his family or his friends. She knew where they lived, she knew where any of them could be.

The listening devices and her friends in high places. Which were other cops. They could orchestrate something so perfect and give that to the public. Who would second guess it? They were the ones everyone put their trust in.

And yet...

The reason he was reluctant to leave the hospital wasn’t just because of his leg and the physiotherapy. He felt safer here. Would he ransack his place and his parents place looking for mics?

There weren’t reporters or paparazzi at his doors asking questions. He got food from home and could make his stay comfortable. He’d gotten his phone back and the first thing he’d done was trying to reach Raquel.

To no avail.

She really wanted nothing to do with him. There was no judgement there. She was free to do what was best for her, but he just needed to know that she was okay. That she was safe. He needed to hear that from her mouth, face-to-face and he’d be content being this huge asshole that played her.

One was already one too many of people that he’d hurt. He didn’t want anyone else hurt because of him.

There was a soft knock on his door. The door was really never closed unless when he needed to sleep. It was opened all the time because his family took advantage of all the visiting hours. One of them would be here the instant visiting hours started. And once it was over, they’d leave.

He turned his head to see Jordan.

He smiled.

“You doing okay today?” he entered with a pizza box. And it smelt so good.

“I am now” he dropped his phone. Blog posts, news headlines and on Reddit. He read it all, but what people said didn’t make him feel bad or put him in a pit of depression.

The truth was way worse. It was his personal hell.

He’d gotten to know Jordan. His saviour. They’d actually been admitted into the same hospital so they talked. JD came to his room a couple of times during his stay. They exchanged numbers and still talk even long after he was discharged.

It was just him doing his job, to comradery, and now a friendship. With everything that happened, well with everything he thought that happened they were forever intertwined.

“You made homicide. That’s awesome. Congratulations” he grinned.

He’d gotten his jacket so they could sit on his room’s balcony. He was stocked up here and JD helped him carry the drinks. They settled on the balcony and this was dinner. It was a bit chilly, but the pizza was hot.

“Thank you” he smiled. He’d gotten what he always wanted. He was a homicide detective just after his first case. And he was well received with fanfare. He went from throwing up in an alley to finding Dominik Mysterio.

It was either one or the other when he’d decided on Seth. And he’d been proven right. Sort of. The Chief had been by his bedside, he was sure he was here for Dominik, but he appreciated the courtesy.

Damian and Finn had visited. Rhea too which surprised him. He expected it after their exchange when he was in hospital, but Rhea going to visit Dom? Didn’t they just meet?

What had happened in the span of minutes when he was unconscious? He didn’t think it was up to an hour. At least that was what Elton said.

“...you stayed back and me and Seth went back down. To get the pizza and then come back up. He wasn’t suspicious or anything and I couldn’t stop him from going back to his room. You didn’t have your phone. And I followed him up” he exhaled.

Elton had this air about him. He understood it was a very tiring and exhausting night. He hadn’t expected that at all. But there was something else. He was distracted. His mind was constantly elsewhere. It had him asking what had happened.

“...he was ahead of me. I honestly didn’t think you found anyone. Least of all Dominik. I walked in and you were on the floor. I saw Dominik. Seth came after me and I had to get my phone to make the call. It was quite the game of cat and mouse, but I managed...” Elton hadn’t looked relieved or happy that they cracked this case. They both did.

“They’re saying you and Rhea are dating. What happened in the span of minutes that the two of you are attached at the hip?”

Dom just mumbled something as he bit his slice. “We’re not together. We just met and I guess...I don’t know man. We must have bonded over a psychopath” he shrugged.

“What about the blonde boyfriend of yours? What about him?” he leaned back in the provided chair.

“He was somehow transferred. LAPD. I didn’t even know he wanted to go there. He wasn’t my partner, but with him leaving out of the blue...it’s like a slap to the face”.

“I want to say congratulations but sounds like you’re going to miss him. So are you going to breakup or-“

“We’re not like that and besides I’m still undecided” he felt like Elton knew something. Hiding something maybe. But what? The only person who would know what happened was another person who was in the room and conscious. There were a lot of unanswered questions.

“Did you blackout? The whole night, do you remember?” he murmured.

He’d read the statement. For someone who cracked a case and was given this recognition, he wasn’t really given the privilege to talk to Seth or get his statement. Or simply put, hear his side. He’d seen worse people plead their case. According to the law he deserved that.

“No” Elton didn’t really say anything of Dom’s state of being.

“What happened?” JD turned to face him.

“I woke up to see your blue eyes-“

JD huffed amused.

“And with all that happening, Seth comes in and he chokes you out. Elton comes in and Seth goes after him. I couldn’t really go anywhere” he gestured to his leg.

And another thing. Did Seth transport Dom back and forth somewhere? Because there was no need for the Alpha to have a bear trap on his property?

He read Seth’s profile and everything. There was no medical experience and he didn’t remember much, but he saw stitches on that leg. Did they search his place at all? Were there medical tools? A bear trap?

Sex toys even.

“Seth choked me out, you say?”

He was 5”10. Seth was 6”1. He’d have been able to fight out of that. He’d gone too high. Even though his assailant had reclined. And looking into Dom’s eyes... wouldn’t there have been recognition? Wouldn’t he have screamed his name?

Why wouldn’t they let him see Seth? Not like they were keeping him away. It was just, “I got it covered” and “Don’t worry about it”.

He didn’t want to say there was some conspiracy, but there was some suspicion. There was this weirdness. Like there was something larger than it appeared to be. He shouldn’t think these things, but everything that was happening just felt well placed.

“And you were there in the room the entire time? Till help came?”

He nodded.

“And Rhea found you” he stated and Dom seemed to hesitate. He turned to him.

This was the whole weirdness with Elton. “JD it wasn’t-“

“Am I interrupting?” Dom jumped in place and gasped. He actually held onto him. Still holding his pizza.

He turned to look at Rhea. She was standing at the balcony door and she came bearing gifts too.

He didn’t want to be on this date that was about to happen. He stood up. “Rhea” he greeted.

“Jordan” she grinned. “Talking about me?” she asked Dom as she stepped aside for JD to walk past.

“No” JD answered. “I’ll see you later Dom. Goodnight”.

Rhea closed the door immediately. She didn’t lose her smile when she came to sit beside him. “What were you talking about?”

He dropped the pizza back in the box. “We were just asking-I mean he-he asked me about that night and-and-and I didn’t say anything-“

“Oh Dom” she placed a hand on his shoulder and he went rigid. Her fingers caressed his nape and went into his hair. “Why so jumpy?” she asked softly, compassionately in a whisper. “You weren’t doing anything bad, were you?” her hand gripped his hair tight. She still smiled. Acting all playful.

“No” he said truthfully. He did think about it. If anyone stood a chance at helping him it would be JD. The only other person that had been unconscious despite Seth.

The only other one who didn’t know what happened. He could tell him, but he couldn’t risk it.

They said suicide was the cowards way out, but he was too much of a coward to actually pull through. Not like there weren’t a lot of means to do so. Even right now sitting on the balcony.

He being dead Rhea wouldn’t have a reason to do anything, but he wouldn’t know for sure. He could take her with him. But those friends of hers. And his room was just on the third floor.

They’d probably survive.

“Just making sure you’re still holding onto your end of the deal” she was back to caressing his nape.

“I am” he said throaty.

“Great” she grinned after a while. That came out hard, just like the look in her eyes.

“Why don’t we have dinner? I brought the tendies you like, along with wings. We should have that instead of the pizza” Rhea closed the box and tossed it onto the table.

She took his arm and lifted it over her own shoulder so she could lean against him. She sighed in contentment.

“Did you hear what everyone is saying at work? That we’re together” she said shyly. Childlike. “Isn’t that nice?” she looked up at him in wonder.

“It is” he agreed and his hand came to rest on her arm.

She kissed him on the lips and he guessed all was right in her world.

And his nightmare continued. With what he knew, it wouldn't stop.

"What about Seth?"

"Oh!" she said cheery. "Didn't you hear? He went mad" she shared.

Dom closed his eyes. He knew it was all his fault.

Everything that was happening to him, he deserved it.

Chapter Text

He’d been discharged.

A good thing right?

He’d continue to recuperate at home. But being home. Being home meant being surrounded by his caring family that weren’t judging him, or wouldn’t judge him outwardly. Seth wouldn’t be talked about and he’d continue to be coddled like he was a victim.

He wasn’t a victim.

A victim of circumstance yes, but the actual victim had gone crazy. According to Rhea. That was the one news he was scared of reading about. What had become of Seth.

He didn’t want to be home with them. He had his own place but they suggested that he be close so he’d have proper care. But he declined.

It’d never be the same.

Not after what Rhea had told him Seth said to everyone. But he understood. Rhea had him cornered that he said something that he didn’t mean and Seth did the same.

He wanted to be alone. They could say it wasn’t the right decision for his recovery but he didn’t care. He wanted to be a recluse. A hermit crab.

Maybe moving away would be best. Going out these days was a hassle. They were still under the eye of the general public.

He moved from his apartment to something smaller. Maybe a studio or a loft appointment. Something smaller. He felt it’d help in spotting anything out of place. And it’d be better for him in a new neighbourhood where he wouldn’t be constantly watched.

Where anyone could just walk up to his door.

He enlisted the help from his friends to move. Austin was the only one trying to be “normal” around him. He didn’t want anyone else around him. Just people he knew.

“Have you heard from Raquel recently?” he tried to be casual about it. He hadn’t been able to reach her through text or calls. And when he tried searching her Instagram there was nothing there.

“No. Not since... it’s been a long time”.

“Is she fine? Do you think she’s still in town?”

“I haven’t seen her in person since your birthday and we stopped talking after Seth-after the interview...”

He exhaled. “Could you-do you think you can drive me there?” he said softly.

Austin agreed and he was in front of Raquel’s apartment. He’d been here a lot of times so he’d been let up without further questions. Even if they didn’t know him before they certainly knew him now.

He rang the doorbell. She’d be able to see him if she was in. If she wasn’t, she had an app on her phone that told her when someone was at her door.

“Raquel? Please we need to- can we talk? Please?” he begged.

“Please?” he repeated. He was talking to a door like it was the real person. Maybe he’d gone mad too.

“I just need to-I need to tell you...” he shook his head. “I need to know you’re alright” he implored.

He inhaled. “Look, I know you hate me. I know you probably want me to die or maybe something worse, but I am immensely sorry for dragging you into this. Just please-if you ever want to talk...” he knelt down and winced.

Air got trapped in his mouth as he was in a that painful position. One knee bent, the other stretched, but he still stayed there, pushing the envelope under the door.

“Just call or text me please” he used the door as support to help himself back up.

“If you don’t...I still understand. Bye” and he turned away slowly. Hoping that it’d open.

It didn’t.

/////

His physiotherapist came once a week. And she’d told him if he didn’t get over his fear of putting weight on his injured leg he’d walk with a limp forever. It was a fight just for her to touch it. When they tried walking, his heel didn’t touch the floor.

That was how he walked outside his house. And when he got tired he’d find somewhere to sit. He didn’t take the brace off much. Sometimes he slept with it.

Today wasn’t all that different.

Till his stomach started to be a problem. It was a mild upset feeling. A little bloated feeling.

“Come on Dom” she encouraged him. “Even if it’s one step”.

He burped behind his palm and his throat burned.

“Dom” she said concerned. “Are you okay?”

He put his injured leg on the floor. He didn’t just take a step. He ran to the guest toilet. He didn’t wince when he knelt this time. On both knees.

He emptied the contents of his stomach into the toilet bowl.

“Dom?” his therapist said alarmed.

“I’m fine. Just-let’s reschedule for another day. I’m not feeling too good. I’m done for the day” he groaned.

“Oh-okay. Are you sure you’re alright?”

He nodded. “Could you let yourself out?”

“It’s not a problem” and he heard her depart.

Dom groaned and flushed the toilet. He rested his forehead on arm.

What had happened?

He placed his hand on his stomach. It could be food poisoning, but he’d be playing himself if he actually believed that.

He remembered that feverish night. Also the fact that they’d had unprotected sex. And his suppressants had been lowered.

It could be.

He was scared to stand up, but he knew he needed to get his phone.

/////

“Hey Austin” said man heard when he’d answered the call from his friend.

“You okay Dom? You sound really low” he was uneasy.

“Yes. I’m fine. I just-I need you to come get me please. From my place”.

“Yes I can-sure Dom. I’ll be right there. Don’t move” Dom ended the call after he said that.

He was sitting on the covered toilet. One hand gripping his phone, the other hand holding an empty pack. Three sticks were laid out on the edge of the sink.

All positive.

He wiped his nose. This couldn’t be happening. He couldn’t be. And of all people her.

Rhea.

A total stranger even though he’d been with her for a couple of months.

This wasn’t-no. He wouldn’t let her tie him down anymore. This would be for life. He didn’t need to waste anymore time. The only mistake that the foetus wouldn’t know it made was that Rhea was its sire.

Minutes later Austin was ringing his doorbell. Well he hoped that it was Austin. He looked through the peephole just to make sure.

When he opened the door Austin gasped, completely blown away by his appearance.

“Dang Dominik. You-you look like-“ he gestured to the black Rihanna type wig he was wearing.

“Jennifer Lopez running from her abusive husband” he stepped out and closed the door.

“Are you running, I mean are you trying to skip town or something?”

“No” he exhaled. “I just need you to drop me somewhere. Then when I’m done I’ll call you” he told him that and the two of them made their way downstairs.

He was scared to drive still because his leg might fail him then he might get in an accident. Who knew? He might be lucky and die.

Though he didn’t want Austin to get involved more, but he didn’t want to be alone. He trusted Austin to be discreet. Anyone else would have tried to talk him out of it. Thinking that it was Seth’s. If it was Seth’s he would have considered.

Austin only played music for him. The kind they both liked. And the voice of the GPS directing them on where to go was the only talking voice in the car. Austin might be slow at times, but he’d know planned parenthood once he saw one.

“Can you just drive around? Maybe go get us snacks somewhere. I’ll be a while” he said once they arrived.

“You sure? I can stay with you”.

He shook his head. Because of his popularity now he was sure that they would know who Austin was once they saw him. And they’d probably see through his disguise. He didn’t need to pull him into this more than he’d already had.

He closed the car door and Austin drove off. His stomach twisted as he walked towards the door.

He didn’t...he felt like crap. But he was sure anyone in this situation would do the same. The baby-foetus didn’t do anything bad. The only mistake it-they made was being conceived.

He wasn’t sure he’d live to regret this. This was just one thing he couldn’t do. He wasn’t in any state to raise a child especially after what had become of his life. He wasn’t working currently. There was no way he was going back to the gym. When his money ran out he’d become a freeloader to his dad. He was single. If he had the child they wouldn’t have a normal life. They’d forever be under the media’s eyes.

Like Ted Bundy’s daughter.

He was justified in not wanting this.

He wish they could give him something to calm down. When he saw what they were going to do to him. He’d watched Euphoria and that had made him squirm.

Now he was squirming himself on the chair with his legs up about to get proved. He didn’t cry, but tears did fall from his eyes. He had no one here who knew what he was doing apart from Austin. No one to support him or hold his hand through this. And no one to hug him once it was done.

He stood outside waiting for Austin once he was done. He realized late he should have brought shades along. He’d shed some tears outside. He was happy no one approached him. Why would anyone approach him? Him being here said he’d made his decision. There was no going back.

He wouldn’t be a father that way and Rhea wouldn’t become a parent through him. He wasn’t making her a mother.

Austin pulled up.

He tried to be casual about it. Trying to cheer him up with his favourite food, but he couldn’t stomach anything. He could still feel what had been put inside him. He knew it was just his mind, but he swore he could taste something medicinal and metallic in his throat.

“I can stay with you, you know? If you want” Austin offered. “I just don’t feel okay leaving you alone”.

He’d been able to crack a smile. “Thank you, but I really just want to be alone. I’ll call you tomorrow”.

He was beyond exhausted. He just wanted to curl up and sleep. He walked into his apartment. As he turned the lights on he screamed.

Rhea sat there, nursing a cup of... something in the dark. Rhea was in his home. He recovered fast. Now wasn’t the time he’d choke.

“How did you get in here?!” he demanded weakly.

She just gave him this bemused look. “Are you really asking me that?”

“Yes I am!” he wasn’t in the mood for any of this. He wanted her out, but he just couldn’t move from his spot. “You can’t be here. I want you to leave now!” he said raspy.

“And if I don’t?” she asked playfully. “You’ll call the cops?”

Since he left the hospital he didn’t feel the need to continue to that whole farce. She’d gotten everything she wanted. Seth was...she didn’t have anything to fear. He didn’t say anything.

He didn’t feel obligated to text or keep communicating with her. Not like they did when he was in the hospital. She always came to see him physically. So if she wanted anything she could always just come find him.

Maybe he should have texted her.

Was she here to get rid of him? Seth was in a nuthouse and Raquel was...he didn’t know. If she was going to despite everything he’d done...as long as no one else was getting hurt anymore.

“Congrats on moving” she dropped the mug. “Should have brought a housewarming gift” she feigned ignorance.

“Get out Rhea!” he was scared shitless.

She slid off his stool and advanced. She came to stand before him and he tried to plaster himself to the wall. He looked away from her, trying not to have any part of her touch him.

“Please just go” he whispered.

“You’ve been ignoring me Dom. Why is that?” her hand came up and she put her hand on his shoulder. It made him flinch. His breathing picked up as her fingers crawled up his nape. Just stopping where his roots started. “Is there something you want to tell me?” she asked almost sincere. Like she cared.

He closed his eyes. “Don’t touch me” he croaked. “I want you out of here. Just get out!” he was desperate now.

“I’m not leaving” she said unaffected by his distress.

“Rhea” he said wretched. “Leave me alone”.

“No” she said velvety and continued to caress his nape. She came closer, her front pressing against him and he raised his hand. Pressing his hand against her arm trying to push her back to create space between them, but he was too weak. He doubted he’d eaten anything.

Her hand left his nape and caressed his cheek. Her thumb caressing the corner of his lips. As she leaned closer, Dom spoke.

“You ruined my life” he said sorrowful. His eyes glistened.

“Oh Dom” she said smarmy. “That’s all you. Seth is gone because of you. Raquel because of you too. You brought embarrassment onto your family, your friends. That’s going to live on forever. Forever immortalized” she mocked him.

Dom’s shoulders shook and he pushed her by the shoulder. He was upset. That got Rhea excited.

“You want to do something?!” she jeered. “Go on. Do it” she urged him. “You know you want to” she tucked her hair behind her ear and offered her cheek like she’d done months ago.

He’d never hit anyone to try and start something. He’d never get into a fight. That wasn’t him. He’d never hit a woman. No matter what she was. That was how he was raised.

But now, his hand just moved and he struck her on the cheek. He surprised himself. He was sure he’d surprised Rhea.

Her head was angled to the side. Still stunned from the slap. He was hyperventilating now.

“I’m-I’m really sorry” he stammered. “Rhea” he whispered. Her silence scared him.

There was now enough space between them. So he wasn’t trapped between her and the wall. He could move away. He could run.

Rhea’s neck snapped towards him as he moved. He forgot about his injury. He ran as fast as he could. He stumbled running to his room. His shoulder hit something, he almost fell but he still kept running. As he reached his room, he fell.

He was pushed from behind. His face collided with the door and he fell forward into the room.

Rhea was on top him. She gripped him by his hair, turning him on his back and slammed his head down onto the floor. He groaned and stopped struggling. He remembered that night.

The cage.

Her hand wrapped round his neck and he went completely still underneath. Choking. His hand went to hers as he tried to breathe. She wasn’t squeezing yet, but it’d have anyone go into panic.

“I hate you!” he cried. “I hate you so much!”

“You hate me so much?” she taunted. “Is that it? When you were begging for me for two straight days? Didn’t sound like you hated me then” she leaned closer. Her face in his. She straddled him. Her crotch pressed directly on his.

“You know what happens after a heat. Your body knows me and you crave my scent. So how can you hate me?”

Dom was silent and she giggled crazily. “You know it and you tried to run” she moved her hips once and that made Dom shake.

“Stop” one of his hands went to her hip.

“I’ll forgive you just this once” she whispered before kissing him. She released the hold she had on his neck. He gasped into her mouth.

“Get undressed” she said as they parted. She left him on the floor.

He laid there for a while. Feeling helpless. He’d been helpless for days on end for months. And today he felt it all the more. More than he’d ever felt in his life.

He let the tears fall to his ears then down to the floor. He cleaned his cheeks and sat up.

Rhea was the worst sort of human being and he hated her more in this moment because there was truth in everything she said.

He picked himself up from the floor.

The night wouldn’t pass sooner in one place.

/////

He woke up the next morning with Rhea in his arms. Both of them naked and he could see the effects of yesterday night. Once he saw them he began to feel them. The back of his head, his shoulder and his face.

He slipped out of bed and Rhea didn’t wake up. She just turned to the other side.

He needed to go for a walk.

He got ready. This time he didn’t forget shades. He didn’t take his phone. He just needed to clear his head.

He had to think of what exactly was next for him. He didn’t want Rhea in his life, but she was one he couldn’t refuse. That was what happened after a heat. He was seconds from dropping to his knees just because of her scent.

“Dom?”

He turned around to see JD. Workout gear. So he was out for a morning run. They exchanged numbers but they hadn’t talked much since he moved.

“Hi Jordan” he’d have hugged him but he was a bit sweaty. He’d just showered. “Exercising?”

“Yeah. Are you hungover?”

“No” Dom answered. “I don’t live far from here” he informed him. That was an invitation.

“Me too” he stepped closer and his nose twitched. And it was rude to be all over Dom the way he was and trying to sniff him. This was the first time he was smelling Dom without fear or that clinical smell that clung to him in the hospital.

He couldn’t tell how Dom felt because of the shades, but he stepped back.

“Sorry” he said embarrassed. “You just-I never realized that you smelt so sweet”.

Sweet. Sweet in the way that Damian had smelt Sunday morning. After he’d woken up to a “hangover”. That sweetness was one that he hadn’t come across ever. It was distinct. It had clung to Damian and there was no mistaking.

This was that scent.

“Are you okay?”

Dom hummed and looked at the gesture he was making. Touching his own neck lightly.

Dom held his own neck. As if trying to squeeze it himself. So he knew what he was talking about.

“I just-I was...I’m still trying to walk. So I bump and fall into things” he said softly.

“That must explain the glasses huh?”

Dom nodded and pushed the glasses to his forehead. I stumbled into my room. Face went straight into my door”.

JD grinned and nodded. He wasn’t going to remind Dom that he was a cop and had heard basically every excuse. Especially when it came to domestic cases.

“So I guess I should continue with my run and leave you to your walk” he was already backing away. He was going down the road he came instead of forward. And Dominik couldn’t say anything before he ran off.

/////

Damian was pushed aside in his own home to make room for JD just so he could enter.

“Good morning JD” he closed the door.

“Tell me what happened Damian” he finally spoke once he turned to him.

“Happened where?” he asked dumbly. “Did you run here?”

“Come off it Damian. Dominik’s scent was on you that Sunday morning I woke up with a hangover. You drugged me” he deadpanned. He’d had time to make peace with that little thought and it didn’t sound so farfetched.

Damian was too calm.

“Aren’t you going to talk?!” he asked sharply. He shouldn’t really make demands in someone else’s house. Especially when Damian was well within his rights to act like he felt. “You knew where he was didn’t you?!”

“How long did you think that?” He asked suave.

“So it’s true?!” hearing it out loud just made it real. “Were you the one who took him?” he asked gravely.

“Whoa!” he exclaimed. “Let’s not get crazy. I didn’t know about Dom until recently-“

“But you knew Damian and you didn’t say a word” he said callous.

“Why didn’t you say something too?” Damian asked back and he paused.

“Huh?” he asked dumbly.

“You knew something was up. Yet you accepted the praise, the adulation and promotion. I didn’t see you caring about the truth then” Damian’s gaze was piercing.

“I-I didn’t have any proof” he stuttered.

“And are you going to talk to Roman about this?” the way he said it was like it was something to laugh about.

“I will” there wasn’t much strength behind that phrase.

“And pray tell, once you do that, what’s going to happen? You think it’s going to surprise Roman?!” he chuckled. Deep.

“There’s an innocent man we put away-“

“He’s fine” he interrupted him smoothly. “He can’t stand trial-“

“Who did it Damian?!” he asked anxiously.

He didn’t answer. “You have a good thing JD. Why ruin it?” he stood in front of him and placed a hand on his shoulder as if trying to show him this grandiose picture. “You like it, don’t you? Do you want to trade it for nothing? You finally made homicide. If you want to do something as inane as going for one of your own...it’s suicide. Just know that you go for one, you’re going for all. Don’t you remember what you were told once you joined?” he smirked.

“It’s one for all...”

“...and all for one” JD completed.

“Now that’s a smart officer” and Damian gave him a side hug.

JD was rigid.

What exactly was he involved in? They were meant to uphold the law. To be examples. When people thought of justice they thought of them.

But this? And was that a threat? Roman knew? And Damian? Who else? Who had Dom the entire time?

And Dom knew too.

Dom and...

“You’re thinking too loud JD” he shook him by the shoulder. “Take a shower let’s have drinks”.

Everyone was mad.

And maybe he was too for actually considering.

/////

“Hey Dom” his dad hugged him. “It’s nice to see you again. It’s like we never see you since you moved” dad said excitedly in the span of seconds. Then he looked over his shoulder.

“And who did you-who’s...officer Rhea?!” dad exclaimed.

“Just Rhea Mr. Mysterio” she corrected him.

Dad looked between them then fixed his questioning gaze on him. He didn’t say anything.

He stepped aside for them to enter and he saw Rhea reach for Dom’s hand. Rey closed the door once they were all in.

“Dom!” Angie walked to the foyer. “And o-“

“Just Rhea mum” Dom spoke.

“Oh!” she seemed dazed. “We weren’t expecting you so I’m sorry. This is-well, sudden. A surprise”.

A nice way of asking why she was here. She smiled at Dom. Lovingly.

Something both parents noticed.

“Well we have news of our own” Dom began.

“Rhea and I have been spending an awful lot of time together. In the hospital, outside the hospital and we didn’t plan it, but sometimes things happen and now...we’re together” he raised their interlaced hands to show them.

Rhea was pressed against his side beaming. There was happiness in her eyes. She looked in love standing beside Dom.

“Wow!” dad exclaimed. He wanted to look happy, but was still surprised. Maybe they thought he was rushing it, but with the sight in front of them they just couldn’t do anything else other than act happy.

“I-I guess this calls for drinks” Angie looked to her husband then to the new couple before she walked back into the house.

Rey was left with them. “Uh-well, you’re both in time for dinner. Please follow me Rhea” he smiled.

“Thank you Mr. Mysterio” and now Rhea was the one pulling him deeper into the house.

Dom followed slowly. Hoping that he wouldn’t be figured out that what he’d said was what the gossip blogs were saying about them.

It’d be quite the initiation dinner. She tugged harder when he hesitated.

My exact face when Dom made the match.

The fuck is this?

JD isn't good for my mental health. He's seducing me. Well too bad (For you guys😈😈😈)

Chapter Text

The ceremony was small. Intimate. They’d booked a hall and held it in the middle of the day. During spring. Spring theme. And what went well with spring parties? Brunch.

A spring brunch theme. With an exquisite spring menu. At least that was what the wedding planner had said.

He and Rhea had gotten married in less than a year of getting together. Well with the show they put on he was sure there wasn’t anyone convinced they weren’t in love.

“You can be a bit nicer to me” Rhea told him.

Like he wasn’t nice enough. They already had a farce of a relationship. She called him her boyfriend, she could come and go to and from his place as much as she could before he even gave her the key code.

Being in a relationship was more than just letting her do as she pleased and having sex. She wanted something real, but how could he force something that wasn’t there?

Sex and fear could only take you so far, but he had to figure it out. The more you pretended the more it’d become real, right?

He didn’t know where she lived and he honestly didn’t want to go back to the woods. So sometimes he’d stop by at the station with a meal because Rhea had gotten to try his cooking and said she liked it.

When he’d stop by they’d tease them both and Rhea would be over the moon. Genuinely happy and like she appreciated it.

So he guessed it was more for people than for her. Other things did happen since they were together “officially”.

She came over a lot so she was introduced to his friends and soon she was integrated in his social circle. It wasn’t odd for Austin or Grayson to come over and see Rhea on his couch, wearing his shirt. They even had nights where they all hung out and Rhea’s energy was more than enough for two so that kept attention off him. Just in case he wasn’t pretending well enough.

But what was the line between pretence and actuality? He’d caught himself slipping sometimes. And slipping was actually being okay with this. He wasn’t in anyway close to Rhea when he wasn’t meant to. There was no holding or snuggling when no one was there to see. When there was no one to convince.

But sometimes if Rhea were to lean close, he’d wrap an arm round her shoulders while they’d stay up late to watch TV.

He didn’t know if it was post abduction and kidnapping clarity, but maybe there was something about her. Not as intense or crazy anymore. Because he wasn’t stuck with her in a cabin or in the hospital. Having that space seemed crucial and he felt horrible just thinking that.

She had a paying job, had a good sense of humour and got along with his friends well. His family was still sceptical of him dating so soon, but they liked her too. She’d be a good girlfriend if he didn’t know the things he did.

They were texting, having conversations over the phone and even going on dates. And the sex...it’d always been good. Guilt would always accompany him feeling good. Enjoying that...he’d remember Seth, he’d remember everything that had happened prior to the hospital.

The therapy he was doing, he was sure it wouldn’t help

“Raquel is fine, just so you know” Rhea said out of the blue.

“I know you’ve been wondering about that. She moved back to Texas. Wanted to get away from it all”.

“And Seth?” he asked earnest.

“He’s well taken care of. Don’t worry about it” she’d squeezed his shoulder. Things like these made him remember it was pretend.

“See what happens when you’re nice to me”.

He’d considered all his options. From running, to saying the truth. Even murder suicide. But the consequences kept him complacent.

She had it all. She had what she wanted. She’d won. She already had him as a “boyfriend”. When she’d popped the question it had been casual.

“Why?” he’d gone rigid against her. Not once did he think she’d go far.

“What do you mean why? Are you going to get with anyone else?”

He guessed she wasn’t.

Fast-forward to now. Where he was leaning against a pillar. Trying to escape the party. He had a glass of wine that he hadn’t drank. He hadn’t been able to eat anything throughout his own wedding. He was hiding. Such a happy husband he was.

This was his forever.

“Hey” a voice he was all too familiar with called him. He’d become integrated into Rhea’s circle of friends and work friends. JD and he had become really good friends.

He saw the news and read the paper. JD seemed to be having a good time. Received a medal from the Mayor and there was some recognition from some commissioner. It looked like things went well for everyone that wasn’t him. It was nice to see that something good came out of his “rescue”.

“Smoke break?” he came to stand beside him.

“Just a break” he muttered.

“Everyone is looking for you”.

“I think I’ve entertained everyone enough. I just want to go-I just want to leave” he sighed heavily.

JD looked pensive. “Do you think-do you want to run away? You could start over and just get new papers. A new identity”.

Dom finally downed his drink. “If I’m not really dead it won’t stop her” JD shouldn’t talk to him like he understood. He’d thought of everything. JD had no one to protect but himself. He couldn’t take that chance.

“Hope you enjoyed the party” and he handed him the glass before walking away.

/////

He was amazed that Rhea had a place. An actual place that wasn’t a cabin in the woods like a serial killer. She never invited him over for some reason, but informed him once they had come to the decision of “happy ever after” that he’d a moving in.

Even the process of moving he didn’t go there.

Now Rhea was opening the door to her house-their home.

“Want me to carry you across the threshold?” she stopped him before he could enter. “That’ll bring back some memories, wouldn’t it?”

“I can walk” he tried not to be snappy about it. His feet hurt. He just wanted to drink water and sleep.

“You should get ready. I have a surprise for you” and that made him halt on his way up the stairs.

He just breathed out and continued with his ascent.

She was just a doll to already sort and arrange his belongings in the space she’d set up for him. He took his change of clothes with him to the bathroom. A lot of people would be happy in this moment. Their wedding night.

But to him it was cold acceptance. He could try being indifferent but that wasn’t an option. He’d need to take the suit to the drycleaners. As he spat out the mouthwash Rhea walked in.

Holding a small box. Wrapped with a black bow on top.

“Here. Open it” she held it towards him.

He’d gotten a lot of gifts from Rhea in the past. He’d just learnt to never trust them. He took the box and unlaced the bow. Rhea was still grinning as he opened it.

He almost dropped the box, but she placed her hand underneath his to stop the gift from falling from his trembling hand.

A pregnancy stick just laid in the box.

“Ho-why-“

“Can you take a test now?”

His body shook more and Rhea just stood there like he wasn’t on the verge of having a panic attack.

She took it out of the box. “I think you should take one” she said plainly.

“But-I don’t understand why-I just-I’ve been taking suppressants and I haven’t had a heat yet so-“

“Exactly” and she wrapped her hand round his. The one underneath. “Take the test” she sounded nice, she looked nice but he had enough time with her to deduce exactly what she wanted and how she felt.

He took it from her.

“Ten minutes” she smiled.

He sat on the bed. Well he tried at first, but this was something he had to lie down for. Not just because of the news but because after they’d...

She held the stick close and grinned. “Positive” she was in her world. He couldn’t share in her happiness. He had no idea how it happened. He’d been careful. They’d both been careful.

“It happens when you have unprotected sex Dom” her free hand came to his neck like it always did. It was hot and heavy. Then she began to squeeze.

He yelped when she became rough and started to shake him. He went still instantly.

“This time I’m sure you won’t do anything stupid” she growled through grit teeth.

His eyes watered as he held her hand.

She dropped the test. “Whenever you’re ready to tell your parents I am” she said comfortingly.

He nodded.

She just stared at him for a while. He didn’t know why she was doing that. Maybe trying to see if there was any lie. He had no idea how she knew and he didn’t want to ask.

She tugged his hair and kissed him. It wasn’t unusual. What was was her hand caressing the side of his neck. Directly on his gland. So he was trying to tilt his head away, but she had an iron grip. Not even seeming to bother that he was struggling.

Her lips left his lips and moved all the way down to his jaw. Then his neck.

“Please” he whispered.

Rhea stopped so he guessed he could continue.

“Please Rhea. Don’t bond me” he pleaded.

He looked into her eyes. Her stoic expression made him uneasy.

“There’s no-there’s no need to. We’re already married. I’m not going to do anything or run away or...” his breaths were getting faster because of his anxiety. She was coming closer and now her nose was buried in his neck.

“It’s okay” she cooed. Then she licked him.

She was going to do it.

He clamped his eyes shut as his fingers made marks in the arm gripping his hair.

“I’m sorry” he tried one last time.

He felt her saliva on his neck from her lips. She’d come to straddle him. He didn’t even realize it.

He whimpered before her teeth touched him.

He released a cry as her teeth punctured his skin.

He didn’t know what to expect. A bite hurt on any day, but this was...this was intense. Everything slowed down. But at the same time sharper. Like he was overstimulated.

He groaned guttural. Still gripping her arm, the other gripped her night shirt. Her lips hadn’t left his neck. His heart was slowing down. Was he dying?

Was he bleeding out?

She was licking his neck again.

“You’re fine” she assured him. “You’re fine” she kissed

He laid there, wanting to take deeper breath but he couldn’t. He tried to get up, but he couldn’t. His eyes were trained on the ceiling as sudden calm overtook his body making him tired.

Sleepy.

Rhea looked up and at him.

The edges of his vision blurred and became darker. Like everything was closing in

“You’ll be back soon. Rest now” she pecked him. “I love you”.

It all went black.