Archive of Our Own

When Jeongin saw the positive pregnancy test on the bathroom sink, he was terrified. A rush of emotions hit him all at once, flipping from excitement to panic as he tried to process the situation.

How was he even going to explain this to Seungmin?

He spent the whole day pacing around the house like a caged lion, filling the living room with his stressed pheromones. If Seungmin came home early, he’d immediately notice something was wrong. So Jeongin opened the windows and turned on the air purifier, the uncomfortably quiet hum annoying his ears at that exact moment. He thought and thought, trying to figure out how to explain it, but something in his mind was blocking every coherent thought. He was so worried that he couldn’t think straight.

By six in the evening, he realized he hadn’t done any of the tasks he was supposed to. He hadn’t done the laundry, prepared dinner, or packed Seungmin’s lunch for the next day. He slumped on the sofa, the cool evening air drifting in through the windows. How could he tell Seungmin that his birth control had failed?

“I’m home,” announced the young alpha, taking off his shoes in the hallway and hanging his backpack on the wall. “Jeongin-ah?”

Seungmin found him on the sofa, staring blankly, completely frozen. He crouched down in front of him, immediately hit by the omega’s worried pheromones.

“What’s wrong, aegi-ah?” he asked gently, reaching out, but Jeongin barely reacted. “Are you sick? We can go to the hospital right now.”

“We need to talk, Seungmin,” Jeongin said, his voice dangerously serious. Seungmin didn’t know what was going on, but he sat down beside him anyway.

The sob that escaped the omega completely unsettled him.

“Jeongin… you’re starting to scare me. What’s happening?”

Jeongin jumped up and ran to the master bedroom, returning shortly with his hands behind his back, eyes brimming with tears, his expression shattered in a way Seungmin couldn’t understand.

“Promise me you won’t get angry… it’s not supposed to be like this, but promise me you won’t.”

Seungmin nodded, confused, and Jeongin took several deep breaths, the weight of the test in his hands growing harder to hold. He extended the test with clenched fists, waiting for Seungmin to reach out. Then he let it drop into Seungmin’s hands and turned away, unable to see his expression.

“Jeongin-ah?” Seungmin’s voice cracked. “Is this… real?”

Seungmin couldn’t believe what he was seeing. The two lines were clear—this wasn’t a joke—but he still couldn’t wrap his head around it. He quickly got up and went to the trembling, sobbing omega, wrapping him in a tight hug while Jeongin continued to cry.

“I don’t know why it failed,” Jeongin said, sniffling. “I took the pills every day and followed the doctor’s instructions to the letter… I’m sorry, Seungmin… it’s my fault.”

“Wait, wait, aegi-ah,” Seungmin said, helping him turn to face him. He asked a hard, almost painful question. “You… you do want to have it, right?”

Jeongin hugged him, burying his face in Seungmin’s neck while he comforted him. Seungmin was still trying to process everything, but he wanted to make sure Jeongin was okay before reacting. He’d gone to work this morning like any normal day, and now he was finding out he was going to be a dad. Jeongin was pregnant, and he was going to be a father… their baby was inside Jeongin, and soon, they’d be parents…

Unless Jeongin didn’t want to have the baby. Seungmin had to hold his omega close and figure things out before saying anything else.

“Of course I want to have it,” Jeongin said. “But we haven’t talked about this… nothing was planned. I swear it wasn’t on purpose… oh no, how am I going to explain this to my parents?”

It was a lot for Jeongin. He hoped deeply that Seungmin wouldn’t be angry at him for being careless.

“Look at me, darling,” Seungmin said, gently lifting him from his neck. His beautiful fox-like eyes were shiny with tears, lips pressed in a small pout. “Why would you have to explain to your parents that we’re going to be parents?”

“We’re not married yet, Seungmin,” Jeongin whimpered. “We haven’t talked about family planning… we don’t have a plan for this.”

Seungmin kissed his forehead. Jeongin worried too much about things that could be solved quickly. But that was part of his charm. He had always been like that, and Seungmin loved him for it. Now, with a positive test in front of them, he couldn’t help but smile, kissing his omega’s cheeks gently.

“We’re going to have a baby, aegi-ah,” Seungmin said. “My baby is going to have my baby… and you’re worried because we’re not married? We can get married tomorrow if we need to.”

Jeongin let out a sigh, tears still rolling down his cheeks. Seungmin was so understanding… why had he even been worried in the first place? His mind had blocked all important thoughts, overwhelmed by the surprise of an unplanned pregnancy. Seungmin had always wanted to be with him, to marry him… so why had he been so scared?

“So we won’t have a nice reception?” he asked suddenly. “We’ll just get married at the courthouse?”

“Of course we can have a reception if that’s what you want, love,” Seungmin said, brushing the sweaty strands from Jeongin’s forehead. “I’ll talk to your parents on Saturday, and I’ll take the scolding for not making their son an honorable man before getting him pregnant if I have to. But if you want, we can marry at the courthouse first and plan the reception afterward.”

It had been a crazy day for both of them. Seungmin didn’t even think about his empty stomach or the stress from work because he’d just received the best news in the world. He was going to be a dad. Sure, it was sudden—they had only lived together for a year, he had bought Jeongin a ring, and he was still planning the perfect proposal—but now everything was taking a new direction. He knew Jeongin’s parents could be strict, and there might be some scolding, but both families would be thrilled. This would be the first grandchild for Jeongin’s parents, who adored him dearly. Now he just had to plan everything: take some days off, gather their closest friends, and share the news.

“Will you marry me?” he asked Jeongin once he had calmed down. Seungmin already knew the answer, but details mattered to Jeongin. “Wait, don’t answer yet—I’ll be right back.”

Jeongin watched his alpha run to the other room. He stayed seated, holding the pregnancy test in his lap. He was happy, of course, smiling as he wiped dried tears from his cheeks. He still had to figure out how to tell his parents, how to organize the reception, who to invite… who should be witnesses at the courthouse? He knew his friends would fight to be the baby’s favorite uncle.

Seungmin returned quickly, kneeling in front of him with a small green velvet box open in his hand. The ring sparkled under the lamp above them. It was beautiful, probably expensive. Jeongin looked at him with love, noticing the strands of sweat sticking to his forehead and temples. He was blushing and probably hurting his knees on the carpet, but Jeongin was focused on becoming Seungmin’s fiancé.

“Yang Jeongin,” Seungmin began, “maybe this isn’t the proposal you deserve. I wanted to take you somewhere nice, the botanical garden… iron your shirt, have Hyunjin get your nails done, coordinate my outfit with yours, and propose in front of everyone… but I hope this will be enough for now. Will you make me the happiest man alive by marrying me?”

“Of course, my love.” Jeongin took the ring and leaned in to kiss Seungmin.

He pulled back just a little, giggling softly, eyes shining and nose red. Seungmin smiled tenderly, hands trembling slightly as he slid the ring onto Jeongin’s finger. It fit perfectly, as if it had always belonged there.

“It’s beautiful…” Jeongin whispered, holding his hand up to admire it. The stone caught the light, casting soft reflections on Seungmin’s face.

“Not as beautiful as you.” Seungmin leaned in to kiss him again, slower this time, as if to memorize the moment. Jeongin smiled against his lips, wrapping his arms around Seungmin’s neck.

They felt each other’s warm breath, the closeness, and for a moment the world went silent except for their racing hearts. Jeongin settled onto Seungmin’s lap, seeking his chest for comfort. Seungmin wrapped him up, holding him close and rubbing his back gently.

“We’re going to be parents,” Jeongin murmured, tracing abstract shapes on Seungmin’s back with his fingers.

“We’re going to be parents,” Seungmin echoed, kissing Jeongin’s shoulder.

“And I’m going to take your last name,” Jeongin teased, making Seungmin feel things he shouldn’t after such an emotional day.

“You already have all of me, aegi-ah.”

They kissed again on the sofa. Jeongin straddled Seungmin’s side, knees on the cushion, holding him close. They probably should take things slow, but both had always had a weakness for each other. Seungmin couldn’t resist Jeongin’s sweet green-tea scent now that the anxiety had faded. If he’d been more disciplined, maybe he wouldn’t have gotten Jeongin pregnant—but his omega smelled so good, so in need of touch, he couldn’t resist.

Jeongin bit his lip before kissing Seungmin’s face with devotion, leaving playful nibbles on his ear as he’d always loved to do. Maybe they shouldn’t, but… why hold back? It was a celebration. A pregnant man, engaged, and hopefully a husband soon.

Making love with Seungmin never felt wrong, no matter where they were in the house. His alpha was careful, checking how he felt, whispering sweet things in his ear. Their words weren’t just dirty talk anymore—they were loaded with promises and plans. Seungmin reassured Jeongin he’d look radiant with his growing belly carrying their baby.

By the end of the night, Seungmin carried Jeongin to the bedroom. They lay down, closing their eyes for a moment, exhausted. Suddenly, their stomachs growled, waking them both. Jeongin snuggled up with a mischievous giggle.

“I’ll make you some dinner, okay?”

Seungmin wanted to say it was fine—sleeping hungry wasn’t that bad, and he wouldn’t die skipping a meal Jeongin might make—but he was too hungry and drained. He smiled and nodded like an obedient dog, lying on the bed with his limbs sprawled out, heart full of happiness.

🐶🦊

The talk with his parents wasn’t nearly as bad as they had expected. As soon as Seungmin was able to get a few days off work, they headed to Busan to meet Jeongin’s parents. Seungmin assured him that his own parents could wait—it was more important to talk to the Yangs first. After all, they were getting married at the courthouse three days later.

Jeongin had forgotten that his mother was pretty sharp for a beta. The moment they arrived at the house in Busan, she scanned him from head to toe and gave a brief frown. Still, she hugged both of them, though Jeongin got a pinch on the waist.

“Your father went to the store,” his mother said, opening the fridge to grab a jug of cold water, “and I guess you’re here to talk to us because Jeongin’s pregnant, right?”

Seungmin’s eyes widened in surprise at her bluntness. “How did you know?”

“I’ve raised Jeongin for twenty-five years—I know what my own child smells like,” she said, looking at Seungmin.

Jeongin was equally shocked. His mother used to mix up his siblings’ names all the time, calling them the wrong one until she got it right. Jeongin had been called “Yoon” so often that he sometimes wondered if it was his real name. His younger brother was an omega, his older brother a beta, yet now she seemed to recognize him immediately.

“Pregnancy makes any omega smell like milk,” his mother explained. “From the moment you arrived, the whole place smells like milk. Your father is going to freak when he comes back and smells you.”

Jeongin let out a deep breath, half embarrassed, half amused. Seungmin gently squeezed his hand under the table for reassurance as they waited for the patriarch’s reaction.

It wasn’t long before the front door opened, letting in a man Jeongin barely recognized. His father had aged so much since the last time he’d seen him. He still had the same stern expression, but the gray in his hair and slow gait made Jeongin want to cry instantly. Hormones, he thought, gripping Seungmin’s hand tighter.

“Jeongin-ah?” his father said, setting the bags on the table and glancing at Seungmin with a hard, indifferent stare. “And you…”

Seungmin swallowed nervously as his future father-in-law shook his hand. He knew the man didn’t like him for taking care of his child, and the room fell silent as the older man sniffed the air. Jeongin’s mother handed him a glass of water and pulled out a chair, knowing what was about to happen required him to sit.

“Dad—”

“Mr. Yang.”

They spoke at the same time. Seungmin let Jeongin continue. The omega took a deep breath, trying to calm himself.

“Seungmin and I are getting married,” he said, showing his father the ring. “In three days.”

“What?” his father slumped further into the chair. “Why so soon? How are we supposed to tell the family to bring gifts and give their blessings?”

“That’s exactly why we came to talk to you, Mr. Yang,” Seungmin said, taking the lead, summoning all his courage. “I know it’s a bit rushed, but we’re short on time and—”

“Short on time for what?” his father slammed his glass on the table. Jeongin felt things could go badly if Seungmin continued—he knew how much his father resented him.

“Because we’re going to be parents,” Jeongin blurted. “You’re going to be a grandfather.”

Time seemed to stop. Jeongin could only see his father’s surprised face and Seungmin shrinking in his seat. He might be an alpha, but Seungmin feared his father. Jeongin was also scared, anticipating the next reaction as his mother placed a hand on her husband’s shoulder.

Seungmin was ready to grab Jeongin and escape if necessary—they had enough time to get from the kitchen to the front door, then lock themselves in the car if his father no longer ran like he used to. They could try again after the courthouse wedding if it would reduce the damage. But the dramatic tension broke when the older man started hyperventilating.

“Oh god,” Jeongin exclaimed, standing quickly. “Dad! Are you okay?”

Jeongin had never seen his father cry. In twenty-five years living in that house, he had never seen him lose composure like this. He wasn’t having a heart attack—he was crying while hugging his son so tightly Seungmin feared he might crush him. Jeongin hugged back, confused by the delicate hand his father placed on his flat stomach.

“My boy,” he groaned, “my baby… how is this possible?”

Seungmin understood—it was a lot to take in, especially as Jeongin’s mother let out a small sob and wiped away a rogue tear. He wanted to lighten the mood with a stupid joke, but it wasn’t the time—their father-in-law was fragile, emotionally shaken.

Jeongin apologized for the abrupt news, but his father hugged him again, crying:

“I’m going to be a grandfather!” he exclaimed, voice breaking with emotion. “God is so generous to let me live long enough to meet my first grandchild.”

Jeongin rested his head on his father’s shoulder, letting his own tears flow while Seungmin looked on tenderly. Despite the initial shock, the family was accepting and celebrating the news with them.

His father quickly started planning how to tell the extended family, neighbors, and anyone else in his path. His mother was calmer, fixing her hair and offering him soothing tea as she cradled him like when he was little. Jeongin could smell their happiness filling the room. Even when Yoon came home from school, he hugged him tightly and carefully placed his hand on Jeongin’s belly.

“You need to write a letter to your brother in the military,” his mother said. “He’ll be so happy about this news.”

“Do you think he could make it for our reception?” Jeongin asked, looking up. “Minnie and I are thinking of keeping it small.”

“This skinny guy has to give you the wedding of your dreams, Jeongin-ah,” his father said, pointing at Seungmin across the room. Seungmin shrank into a corner like a scared animal. “You’re giving him a child—he owes you it”

“Dad…” Jeongin tried to calm things down gently.

“Am I wrong?” his father asked Seungmin directly.

“The reception will be however Jeongin wants it,” Seungmin said. “I’ve been saving for this moment, Mr. Yang.”

“Dad,” his father said firmly.

“Excuse me?” Seungmin frowned, confused.

“Call me Dad.”

His father-in-law ended up being softer than he could have imagined. Seungmin finally felt he could breathe after years of courting Jeongin, starting a life together, and now starting a family with the approval of a patriarch who had always been overprotective because he loved his children so much. Would he be the same with his own child someday? Seungmin hoped not, respectfully.

Talking to Seungmin’s parents was much easier. They were serious like him but shared the same weakness for Jeongin. His mother, a doting alpha, welcomed him with chocolate cake and fresh juice, while his father, a calm omega, hugged them warmly, already understanding the reason for the visit without a word.

When the couple announced their engagement and Jeongin’s pregnancy, it was all happiness and well wishes. His mother offered to cover some wedding expenses without asking Seungmin’s opinion—stubborn but noble, wanting Jeongin to be as happy as possible. She offered to pay for both their outfits for the reception and later to find the best prenatal care and hospitals to keep Jeongin’s pregnancy smooth and stress-free.

“Thank you so much, Mom,” Jeongin said, letting himself be pampered by his mother-in-law’s firm but gentle hands.

“We’re so happy you chose our son, dear,” the alpha smiled. “If you had been my child, you would have made me just as happy.”

“I’m still here, Mom,” Seungmin grumbled, hugging his father anyway.

He knew his mother had wanted an omega child, but her lineage had only given her two alphas first. Even his niece threatened to inherit the grandmother’s secondary gender. They didn’t know exactly what the baby would be like with Jeongin, but one thing was certain—it would be deeply loved by the grandparents.

🐶🦊

Seungmin knew that the responsibility for everything would inevitably fall on him for being “the alpha in the relationship.” He had no problem taking charge once Jeongin started showing the first signs of pregnancy.

The courthouse wedding is a blur in his memory, starting to fade as Jeongin begins vomiting from nerves like a scene straight out of a horror movie. Jeongin feels his stomach churn into a boiling mess he can’t hold in, so he leans over the toilet and vomits. The smell is unbearable, only making him throw up more, and somehow he feels even more irritable than usual.

On their wedding day, Jeongin doesn’t want to get out of bed—he’s exhausted and nauseous. Seungmin gets ready as usual and calls his parents to make sure they’ll be at the courthouse before nine.

“It’ll be quick. Jeongin’s not feeling well,” he explains.

“I’ll be fine, Minnie, just give me five minutes,” the omega says from the bed, still in pajamas.

“The problem is, we don’t have five minutes, aegi-ah,” Seungmin replies, heading to the closet to get the suit Jeongin wore to his cousin’s wedding last year. He had ironed it the night before and prepared everything so they wouldn’t lose time, but Jeongin can barely move without complaining of a headache or nausea.

“I’m coming, I’m coming,” Jeongin grumbles. He smells irritated—strangely irritable—and Seungmin, being stupidly honest, makes the worst possible comment:

“Love, if you want, I can call the courthouse and postpone it until you feel better.”

“No!” Jeongin snaps so sharply even he’s surprised. He straightens in bed with a grimace, taking a deep breath and clutching his stomach. “I’m not postponing. We’re already dressed, everyone’s already been notified… I don’t want them to think I’m backing out.” His voice trembles, on the verge of tears.

Seungmin blinks and takes a half-step back. His instinct is to defend himself, but Jeongin’s knot of emotion won’t loosen. He crouches by the bed, patient.

“Aegi-ah, no one’s going to think that. Whatever happens today, okay? Listen to me,” he says softly but firmly, stroking the sweat-sticky hair at Jeongin’s temple. “If you want, we can marry next week, tomorrow, or even in pajamas in the kitchen. I won’t let you feel this bad just to follow a schedule. I can talk to the judge about signing the papers here, or having a notary come.”

Jeongin presses his lips together, eyes shining with a mix of anger and vulnerability.

“I want to get married today,” he whispers stubbornly. “I don’t care if I look pale or have dark circles. I just want this to happen.”

Seungmin sighs softly and kisses his forehead, resigned.

“Alright, love. We’ll do it today.”

Patiently, he helps him out of bed. Jeongin lets himself be guided like a ragdoll while Seungmin wipes his face and dresses him in the pressed suit. His mother had been right: Jeongin looks beautiful, even with a tired face and grumpy expression. Seungmin, meanwhile, feels like he’s pushing a cart uphill, trying to keep everything together without letting his partner collapse.

The drive to the courthouse is quiet. Jeongin rests his forehead against the glass, eyes closed, breathing through his mouth to avoid dizziness. Seungmin squeezes his hand gently, trying to transmit calm.

When they arrive, their parents are already waiting. Seungmin’s mother runs to Jeongin the moment she sees him, her warm hands adjusting his collar.

“Darling, you look so handsome,” she says, her sweetness making Jeongin blush, even as he keeps his gaze down.

Seungmin’s father simply hugs him, wordlessly offering calm.

The ceremony is quick, just as Seungmin predicted, after Jeongin’s mother spoke to the judge about his condition. The cold courthouse lights, the signed papers, the judge’s formal words—all pass in the blink of an eye. Jeongin barely remembers saying “yes” and hearing Seungmin’s “yes” before it’s over. A soft round of applause from their parents, a quick photo, the sweet kiss Seungmin presses to his lips, and a ring on his finger that feels heavier than the rest of his body now that he’s officially Kim Seungmin’s husband.

Back in the car, Jeongin sinks into the back seat, leaning back, exhausted. Seungmin covers him with his jacket and sits beside him, caressing his face tenderly for a few minutes.

“It’s done,” he whispers. “You’re my husband.”

Jeongin smiles weakly, closing his eyes and squeezing Seungmin’s hand.

“Now take me home, Minnie… I need a week of sleep.”

Jeongin feels like he’s lost something important in this rushed wedding. He’s happy, yes, but just two days ago, his body had been in perfect harmony with the thought of becoming a dad. Now it’s just a soup of nausea and dizziness ruining his special moment. He doesn’t want to look at the photos—Seungmin says they’re beautiful—but he isn’t ready yet.

Back home, Seungmin doubles his efforts to salvage the situation. He carries Jeongin bridal-style, carefully avoiding the doorframe. Jeongin smiles drowsily against him, enjoying the soft humming of Seungmin singing an Ed Sheeran song—the only kind of music apparently allowed at weddings. Seungmin takes him to the bedroom and helps him change into something more comfortable, getting him into bed in under ten minutes.

“Sorry if this didn’t go as planned,” Jeongin says as Seungmin lies down next to him.

“We don’t have a plan, love,” Seungmin says, combing his hair and pulling the omega into his arms. “We’re improvising, and I can’t predict your health or the weather outside. Don’t worry about that. The important thing is, you’re my husband now, and my job is to make you the happiest man for the rest of our lives.”

Being newlyweds doesn’t sound so heavy after all.

🐶🦊

Jeongin has some things to say about pregnancy. First of all, it’s horrible.

Two weeks later, Seungmin’s mother accompanies him to his first prenatal checkup. An ultrasound shows the small bump growing in his omega uterus, and the obstetrician delivers some slightly discouraging news while handing Jeongin his prescription for daily vitamins.

“Pregnancies in male omegas tend to be a bit more delicate than pregnancies in any female gender,” the specialist explains. “During the first trimester, it’s considered high-risk, so Mr. Kim must be on complete rest. Avoid any physical exertion, take your vitamins as prescribed, and ideally you should start nesting as soon as possible in a space that provides comfort and security.”

“Can’t I do anything?”

“No. You’re currently at twelve weeks, and the gestational sac is still very fragile. Any sign of pain or bleeding, you must go straight to the emergency room.”

Okay, this wasn’t the experience he expected for his first pregnancy. He didn’t expect his mother-in-law to have to wheel him around the hospital, nor to be given a preferential parking card—though that part wasn’t too bad—and of course he now has to talk to his husband about everything they said at the appointment. He has to explain the industrial amounts of supplements, vitamins, and medications he’s going to leave on his nightstand, along with the instructions his mother has already started writing in a small notebook.

“Did this happen when you had your children, Mom?” he asks the alpha.

“Seungho and I decided that two children were enough for us. I had Naeun and he had Seungmin,” his mother smiles fondly. “Can you see the difference?”

Of course, Naeun is the spitting image of her mother, in both personality and looks. Seungmin has the same personality as his father, but curiously, both were alphas like his mother. Jeongin wonders if his baby will inherit more from Seungmin or if his genetics have a chance against theirs.

“Seungho’s pregnancy was delicate too, so don’t worry, darling. Mom has everything under control.”

Namsoon had no plans to move in with them. When they return home, Jeongin has to wait for his husband to take him back to his own house. In the meantime, they plan the best schedules for his medications, prepare him a light meal, and allow him to rest in the guest room until his father returns from work with Seungmin.

Seungmin doesn’t expect to see his mother so focused, printing planners on his father’s printer and bringing them back to the living room. Jeongin isn’t in sight, but he can smell him in the house.

“Jeonginnie is resting,” she says without really looking at him. “I haven’t made dinner; your father can take care of that.”

In fact, his father is already staring into the fridge, checking dinner options. Seungmin sits next to his mother to watch what she’s doing.

“The doctor was very clear, Minnie,” she says bluntly. “Jeongin needs absolute rest—no effort, no stress. You’ll need to stay on top of his vitamins.”

Seungmin sets his briefcase aside, processing the avalanche of information while flipping through some of the sheets. His mother hands him the notebook with instructions.

“And how is he?”

“Scared,” she responds, soft smile on her face, “but he’s okay. It’s normal to feel that way.”

Seungmin nods in silence, scanning the notebook: schedules, doses, supplements, emergency alerts. Everything is perfectly organized, as if his mother were training a soldier for a delicate mission. And, in a way, she is. His military service doesn’t even come close to preparing him for what lies ahead, especially as his mother repeats everything the doctor said during the consultation. Fear starts to creep in on him unconsciously.

Miscarriage? The thought terrifies him. Pregnancy symptoms? No, thank you.

Jeongin wakes shortly after dinner is ready, but not for a good reason. The smell makes him nauseous, and reflux becomes unbearable. The moment he sets foot on the floor, vomiting is unavoidable. Seungmin appears running, his face soaked with panic, his parents trailing behind, equally alarmed to see him on the floor.

“Get up, darling, let’s go to the bathroom,” Seungmin says, draping his arm over Jeongin’s shoulders and guiding him there. Jeongin stops vomiting, and the cool water washing his face is soothing.

“I made a mess,” he mutters, his voice rough, head still spinning.

“I’ll clean it up, don’t worry about it.”

Jeongin clings to the sink, still trembling from the effort. Seungmin kneels in front of him, gently wiping the corners of his mouth with a damp towel. His expression is a portrait of anguish, as if Jeongin’s life depends on every careful movement.

“It’s okay, breathe slowly,” he whispers, stroking his wet cheek.

Pregnancy is horrible. How can something he always ate without issues now make him gag as if it came from a trash bag? He can’t even get close to his husband after dinner; the smell of kimchi has seeped into his clothes and just remembering it turns his stomach. In the end, Namsoon offers him a banana smoothie he barely manages to swallow, but the sweetness calms the reflux slightly, and he gets a couple of hours of sleep. On the drive home, he urges Seungmin to leave quickly because his bladder feels unbearably full from the back seat.

By now, his first trimester should be over, considering twelve weeks equals three months… or is pregnancy counted differently? The bump on his belly is barely visible, just a small swelling that could easily be mistaken for overeating. He can’t think straight, his head aches, and the full bladder is the worst part right now. All he wants is to pee.

At the end of the night, stomach empty and bladder finally relieved, he collapses into the bed he shares with Seungmin. His husband has gone through two showers, changed clothes, rinsed his mouth, and done everything possible to remove the dinner smell so he can lie beside him. Even so, Jeongin keeps him at a distance until his nose no longer detects the faintest trace. Seungmin finally gives in, sinking into the mattress, and Jeongin knows there are so many things he should say… but the soft snore next to him silences him. He’s slept too much during the day, so he stares at the ceiling… then Seungmin… then the closed window. His eyes burn; the urge to cry knots in his throat, a tangle of exhaustion, fear, and frustration he can’t explain.

Jeongin turns to his side, trying to curl up despite the discomfort. Seungmin’s warmth is reassuring, but even inches away, the emptiness in his chest doesn’t fade. A contained sob builds in his throat, a mix of tiredness, fear, and frustration. His fingers brush the edge of Seungmin’s shirt, gripping it gently.

“What’s wrong, aegi-ah?”

Seungmin’s eyes remain closed, breathing slow. Jeongin buries himself in his chest, stifling silent cries while Seungmin, still half-asleep, strokes his hair. He doesn’t want it to be a hard night for either of them, but after the doctor’s visit and all the information that bombarded him, he’s terrified. He doesn’t want Seungmin to stay awake when he has work tomorrow.

“It’s nothing, rest, Minnie,” he says, stifling another sob.

🐶🦊

Jeongin’s second complaint about the pregnancy is that the symptoms never let up, leaving him constantly irritable.

“I don’t want to eat that,” he complains, pushing away the plate of steamed vegetables Seungmin had prepared for him.

“Jeongin-ah,” his husband nudges the plate back toward him, “you haven’t been eating well the past few days. Smoothies and vitamins aren’t going to fill your stomach.”

“Try eating something without vomiting it seconds later.”

Seungmin has to practice monk-level meditation. Taking care of Jeongin has become an incredibly complicated task; each day, a new complaint lands in his mental complaint box that he has to resolve immediately because his husband is too stubborn to compromise.

Nesting has also been a problem. Daily, Jeongin is far too restless, wanting to move furniture, buy new blankets, or sort the laundry to fit it into his “nest.” Seungmin has to request days off work, with his boss giving him a glare while signing the permission slip, since Seungmin needs to submit documentation proving Jeongin’s pregnancy is still high-risk. He brings work home, searching for small windows of time to get things done while tending to his husband.

Jeongin still doesn’t eat properly. He cries as much as he vomits, and the doctor simply says it’s normal, handing over more medications Jeongin refuses to take, no matter how hard Seungmin tries.

“I’ll be back in a moment,” Seungmin announces, grabbing his bag. “I won’t be long.”

Jeongin watches him from the sofa, curled into a small bundle on the cushions. He doesn’t want his husband to leave. He needs him nearby, even though Seungmin brought work home and is busy—he feels he isn’t getting enough contact or comfort. At night, Seungmin collapses into bed almost instantly, relegated to the corner, while Jeongin’s “nest” takes up most of the bed.

The omega knows he’s being irrational about his territory. Every accidental touch from Seungmin startles him; his nerves spike, and frustration builds. Everything must be perfect, and nothing his husband does seems enough to soothe him.

When Seungmin returns with a bowl of soup from the nearby store, he sighs at the sight of Jeongin curled up on the sofa, arms wrapped around his legs, forehead resting on his knees. He knows he can’t force him to eat or rest, but he also can’t just stand by while his omega wears himself down.

“Jeongin-ah,” he whispers, kneeling in front of him and gently lifting his chin, “I just want to help you feel better. Nothing more.”

Jeongin looks up with glassy eyes, frowning, a thin trail of saliva at the corner of his mouth. He wants his husband to stay, but he knows he can’t keep him; he needs him, yes, but not in a possessive way. It’s just… everything feels too hard, even breathing.

“Minnie…” his voice breaks, barely a whisper. “I’m tired. Everything makes me sick, everything makes me feel awful… and my body won’t stop complaining.”

Seungmin nods in understanding, rubbing circles on Jeongin’s back slowly, trying to convey calm.

“I know, aegi-ah. I know…” he whispers. “And it’s okay to feel this way. You don’t have to be strong for me now. I’m here. Always.”

Jeongin collapses a little more onto Seungmin’s chest, inhaling his scent, even if it occasionally turns his stomach. The contact is comforting, but his nerves remain frayed, and a quiet sob escapes despite his efforts to hold it in. Seungmin wraps him in his arms more tightly, murmuring soothing words while stroking his hair and back.

“Tomorrow will be a bit easier. I promise I’ll make you something light your stomach can handle,” Seungmin says softly. “And in the meantime… we can just stay like this, together. Nothing else matters right now.”

Jeongin closes his eyes, leaning completely into him, allowing his body to relax even if only for a moment. Anxiety, discomfort, frustration… all tangled into a knot that only his husband can touch and soften.

The “nest” has become Jeongin’s most important project and also the source of many frustrations. The room is now covered with blankets, pillows, and cushions of various sizes, which Jeongin rearranges and re-rearranges every two hours. Seungmin has lost count of how many times they’ve moved the mattress or bought new blankets in less than a week.

“That doesn’t match,” Jeongin murmurs, frowning as Seungmin places a cream-colored blanket on the makeshift bed.

“Aegi-ah, it’s the same blanket you chose yesterday,” Seungmin tries to sound patient, though his tired smile gives him away.

“But I don’t like it today,” Jeongin replies sharply, crossing his arms. “And I don’t want that pillow… take off your shirt.”

Seungmin obeys without arguing, taking off his shirt and handing it over. Jeongin wraps his pillow in it before tossing another pillow toward him, demanding it go in the laundry. He selects more random pieces of clothing from the blankets with decisive gestures, as if every detail is crucial to feeling safe. Suddenly, he grabs another pillow and lazily tosses it to the corner of the room.

Seungmin sighs quietly, kneeling to pick it up and placing it where Jeongin wants. He doesn’t say anything. He knows that instinct, that perfectionist obsession—it exhausts him but he also understands it as part of his pregnancy. Instead of arguing, he leans in to gently stroke Jeongin’s hair.

“Do you want to take a break?”

Jeongin doesn’t respond, but eventually curls up beside him. Seungmin carefully lies down in the freshly reorganized nest, ensuring his belly isn’t crushed. The feeling of holding him close like this after days of tension is strangely comforting. Just as he begins to relax, he hears Jeongin’s voice.

“You know what I’m craving?” Jeongin asks, his tone almost dreamy. “Watermelon.”

“I can get some from the store if you want,” Seungmin offers mechanically.

“I don’t want you to leave. I want watermelon.”

Seungmin doesn’t argue; he grabs his phone and sends a quick message to their friends, asking for help. Jisung replies almost immediately, promising to bring the best watermelon he can find at the supermarket. Minho responds shortly after with a brief message reminding him to be careful. Felix also offers to pick up whatever they need. Seungmin thanks them sincerely and sets his phone aside.

He allows himself to close his eyes for a moment, hoping Jeongin can also sleep so they can rest, even a little.

How long has it been since he slept well? He doesn’t even remember. All he wants is to regain some energy and later buy something to eat that isn’t the leftovers Jeongin has rejected over and over. The warm, sweet scent of his omega envelops him, and he lets the exhaustion slowly take over, with Jeongin safe in his arms.

🐶🦊

The house is quiet for the first time in days. Jeongin sleeps in his nest, curled up among blankets and pillows that smell like Seungmin. His husband’s slow, deep breathing should be calming, but it isn’t. Seungmin stays seated at the edge of the bed a little longer, elbows on his knees, hands covering his face. The weight of his dark circles burns in his eyes.

He slips out of the room on tiptoe, closing the door carefully so as not to wake him. He collapses onto the living room sofa, sinking into the silence with the relief of a long breath after being underwater. His fingers search for his phone automatically and open Chan’s chat.

Are you busy?

The message goes unanswered for a few seconds that feel eternal. Seungmin leans back, pressing the bridge of his nose to stave off the dizziness from accumulated exhaustion. A few moments later, his phone vibrates.

For you, never.

Everything okay?

Seungmin bites his lower lip before typing. He doesn’t know if he’s looking for advice, an outlet, or simply someone to tell him he’s not alone.

I’m exhausted, Chan. I don’t know how much longer I can handle this.

The reply comes quickly.

Jeongin?

Yes.

It’s not bad… just… a lot. He’s irritable, barely eating, crying over everything, doesn’t want me to leave the house, and I… I’m working from here, trying not to leave him alone for a single moment. I feel like I’m failing all the time.

Seungmin falls back on the sofa, covering his eyes with his forearm. A knot forms in his throat that he didn’t expect. He doesn’t usually speak like this, doesn’t usually let himself be vulnerable, but Chan has always been the exception.

You’re not failing, Min. You’re taking care of both of them. You’re doing fine.

Seungmin lets out a dry, barely audible laugh.

It doesn’t feel like it. I barely hug him because the nest is about to explode with things, he hates me if I touch a misaligned blanket. I’m so tired, Chan. I’m tired and… I’m scared he’ll think I don’t want to be here.

A few seconds pass before a new bubble appears.

He knows you love him. He’s vulnerable, and you are too. You’re not a machine, Min.

Seungmin swallows hard. His fingers shake as he types.

I just want him to be okay.

He will be. And so will you.

I’ll come by tomorrow. I’ll bring coffee, okay?

The simple message illuminates the phone screen, but the relief is almost tangible. For the first time in days, Seungmin drops the device onto the sofa and allows himself to close his eyes. He breathes deeply, feeling a little less alone.

From the bedroom comes a faint sigh from Jeongin. Seungmin stands, dragging his feet to the door. He knows he can’t sleep yet—not while Jeongin is awake at the slightest sound—so he returns to the bedroom and lies down beside him, heart heavy with exhaustion but also with love.

The next day, Chan arrives as promised, accompanied by Felix and Jisung. Seungmin doesn’t need to explain anything: a single glance at his pale face and slumped shoulders says it all. Felix enters first, with a soft smile and a huge bag of groceries. Jisung follows, holding a thermos that smells of freshly made broth.

“Where is he, Seungminnie?” Felix whispers.

“In the room.” Seungmin’s voice is hoarse, tired.

Chan places a firm hand on his shoulder. “Leave him to us for a while.”

Seungmin nods, feeling strange letting go of the role of guardian. He stays in the living room, seated with Chan, while the two omegas slip silently into the bedroom. Just minutes later, the atmosphere of the house changes. A sweet, calming scent emanates from Felix and Jisung, an invisible lullaby that seems to pass through the walls.

Through the half-open door, Seungmin sees Jeongin, who hours earlier refused to eat or be touched, now curled up between the two omegas. Felix strokes his hair with patience while Jisung offers spoonfuls of warm soup. Jeongin, eyes moist but calm, lets himself be cared for, sipping slowly with soft murmurs.

“Look at that,” Chan whispers, crossing his arms. “I told you, the best support network is the omegas we have. Jeongin is in good hands.”

Seungmin watches, the weight of exhaustion pressing down on him. His body begs to surrender, but his mind won’t allow it. Chan seems to read his thoughts.

“Min, you can’t keep doing this alone. You can’t do everything.”

“I don’t want him to think I’m leaving him,” Seungmin replies, voice breaking.

“He won’t think that. Look, he’s calm. What he needs now is to feel cared for… and you need to breathe.”

As if granted permission, Seungmin buries his face in his hands. He feels Chan’s palms on his shoulders, firm and reassuring.

After a while, Felix comes out of the room on tiptoe. “We got him to finish all the soup,” he whispers proudly. “He says he’s tired; he’s falling asleep now.”

“Good job,” Chan says, patting his omega gently on the back.

Jisung peeks out too, with a sweet smile. “We can stay a few days if you want to rest, Min. Felix and I can handle it.”

Seungmin blinks, as if struggling to process the offer. “Stay here?”

“Yes.” Jisung nods, soft as ever. “We can sleep on the sofa. That way you can go to Chan’s place for a couple of nights without worry.”

Seungmin looks at Chan, seeking confirmation. Chan nods slowly.

“Let them help you, Min. It’s best for everyone.”

The alpha exhales, long and exhausted. He looks once more toward the bedroom, where Jeongin sleeps, surrounded by the soothing scent of Felix and Jisung. There is a peace there that, despite all his love and effort, he hadn’t been able to provide these past days. He feels guilt… but also relief.

“Alright,” he murmurs finally. “Just… let me know if anything happens.”

Felix smiles warmly. “Of course, Minnie. Please, rest.”

Chan squeezes his shoulder again and guides him toward the door. Seungmin feels his steps heavy as lead, but for the first time in weeks, he also feels that the world won’t fall apart if he takes a break.

It turns out that a full support network is far more effective: the weight that once fell solely on Seungmin begins to distribute naturally. Chan and his mother seem to understand each other effortlessly; both alphas divide the tasks around Jeongin efficiently, allowing Seungmin to rest for the first time in weeks.

Changbin and Hyunjin join shortly after, handling the heavier household tasks. Jeongin doesn’t reject them when they enter his room, even when they clearly intend to move the furniture he insists on rearranging for his nest. He watches from his corner, wrapped in blankets, too weak to protest but grateful for the silent effort.

Felix and Jisung take on the more delicate side: Jeongin’s emotional stability. Caring for him becomes almost a sacred task. They take shifts according to their schedules, ensuring he’s never alone when Seungmin can’t be there. They pamper him, soothe him with their soft pheromones, and listen to his tears when the hormones overwhelm him, helping him understand that Seungmin had been overburdened all alone.

Jeongin hadn’t wanted things to turn out this way—his alpha was so tired, and he hadn’t considered him. Their friends wouldn’t be caring for him if he had been more flexible with Seungmin. He misses him terribly and wants to be with him constantly, but Felix explains that Seungmin is resting at Chan’s so that when he returns, things will be much better.

Minho takes on a role few dare: discipline. His role is clear and firm. He ensures Jeongin eats on schedule, takes all his medications as prescribed, no excuses. Jeongin complains, but he obeys. Minho doesn’t yield to sulking or sudden cravings.

Meanwhile, Seungmin’s mother handles all medical appointments, treating him like a precious doll to protect at all costs. The care with which she accompanies him makes Jeongin feel safe. However, even she clashes with Minho over food: he insists on controlling every sweet craving, worried about risks like gestational diabetes; she argues that a little sugar won’t hurt. Their discussions are constant, but behind every word is genuine concern that Jeongin notices.

Seungmin watches the entire display of support with a mixture of relief and awe. What once seemed an impossible burden to bear now becomes a dynamic extended family network, a set of hands holding both Jeongin and himself. For the first time, exhaustion doesn’t feel like an insurmountable enemy: there are other shoulders willing to bear it with him.

🐶🦊

Unity is strength, and together they manage to get Jeongin to his twentieth week with much more stable health. The house, once silent, is now full of life, imbued with the scents of those who love and care for them.

Seungmin no longer drags the exhaustion from the first months, and Jeongin has finally left behind the constant vomiting and nausea. His only concern now is fluid retention, something even Minho’s strict diets haven’t managed to prevent. Every afternoon, when Seungmin returns from work, he sits beside him and patiently massages his swollen feet, taking his time to help him relax. Dinner is calm, free from Jeongin’s obsessions with reorganizing his nest—something Hyunjin and Changbin appreciate—although his restless mind still searches for new reasons to worry.

“We postponed our wedding reception too long, don’t you think?” Jeongin asks, biting into a piece of apple he cut before Seungmin arrived home.

The complications of the pregnancy consumed five full months of planning. His belly is now more prominent, and each day standing for long takes a toll on his energy. Seungmin has thought about it too: the reception was always in their plans, but the priority was ensuring Jeongin was no longer high-risk without stepping into an emergency room.

“We can schedule it, but… don’t you think it’s better to wait until after the baby is born?”

“The baby won’t arrive until February,” Jeongin responds with a tired smile. “My family understands the situation, but… I’d like it to happen sooner, love.”

Seungmin feels a knot in his stomach. He doesn’t know how to tell him that the budget for the reception was drastically reduced after medical expenses, and now everything is focused on the baby’s arrival. Still, seeing the hopeful sparkle in Jeongin’s eyes, he decides he’ll find a way to fulfill his wish without compromising anything.

“We can schedule it,” he assures, leaving a soft kiss on his forehead.

Days later, Jeongin talks to his mother about it. He doesn’t want to demand more from Seungmin; he knows he’s already carrying a lot.

“We can cover part of the reception,” she says firmly. “You shouldn’t worry Seungmin-ah with these things, love. I’ll speak with Namsoon-ssi if necessary, but we’ll handle it.”

When he shares the plans with Felix, he immediately offers to help his mother with the organization.

Surprisingly, Minho also gets involved: he promises to pay for the cake Jeongin wants and lifts the dietary restrictions just for the occasion. He wants Jeongin to have something beautiful, something special, because he deserves it. Minho has never been a parent, but his protective—almost maternal—instinct has always been directed toward the youngest of the group.

Jeongin has always believed that they propose the plans and God arranges for them to come true. God has blessed him with a home full of love, an incredible husband, amazing friends, and a baby on the way who, though challenging, he eagerly anticipates. Planning the wedding becomes much easier and faster than expected when everyone offers their help.

The reception takes a definitive turn when the date is set, and all the guests receive the “save the date.” Seungmin can’t help but be amazed by everyone’s effort as they arrive early to finish decorating the beautiful patio Chan secured for them.

He wants to watch his husband being styled by Felix and a friend who came to do his makeup, but they soon chase him out of the room: superstition says it’s bad luck to see the groom before the ceremony starts. Seungmin laughs at the absurdity—after all, they’re already married—but he can’t help being carried away by the emotion that overwhelms him seeing everything so perfectly arranged and his husband so happy.

The sun illuminates the carefully decorated patio, and every detail reflects the love and dedication of those who helped Jeongin and Seungmin. Fresh flowers in soft tones, garlands hanging from the trees, and lights that seem to compete with the daylight create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Jeongin is nervous but happy. His outfit—simple, elegant, designed for comfort—fits over his prominent belly, and Felix ensures that his makeup highlights the tenderness of his smile. Beside him, Seungmin watches silently, pride and emotion clouding his vision. He wants to approach, touch him, tell him how much he loves him, but he restrains himself: they know this is everyone’s moment, not just theirs.

Since they are already married, the ceremony skips a few steps, and the reception unfolds like a carefully crafted dream. Tables are full of flowers and candles, linens immaculate, and every detail reflects the tireless help of friends and family. Seungmin can’t help smiling as he watches Jeongin greet guests, his face lit with the happiness he radiates.

Toast after toast follows: Jeongin’s mother watches him with tears of pride while his father makes a playful comment that makes everyone laugh. Their friends share anecdotes, some mischievous, others tender, and amid laughter and applause, the atmosphere fills with warm, genuine love. Minho ensures Jeongin eats between toasts and speeches, while Felix and Jisung make sure he doesn’t run out of drinks without overdoing it.

Despite the crowd and commotion, Seungmin finds his moment. He approaches Jeongin as he chats with relatives and gently takes his arm.

“Come, aegi-ah,” he whispers, leading him to a quieter corner of the patio. “We need a little break.”

Jeongin smiles, but his fatigue is evident. His belly is heavy, and the last months of pregnancy have left him with less energy than expected. They sit on a secluded bench, surrounded by hanging lights and the distant murmur of the party.

“I can’t believe this is real,” Jeongin murmurs, resting his head on Seungmin’s shoulder. “Married… with a baby on the way… and everyone here celebrating us.”

“I know,” Seungmin responds, wrapping an arm around him. “We’ve made it, despite everything.”

Jeongin snuggles closer, inhaling Seungmin’s familiar scent. The feeling of safety envelops him, and for a moment, he forgets all fatigue and pregnancy discomfort.

“Thank you, Minnie,” he whispers softly. “For everything.”

“Always, aegi-ah,” Seungmin replies, leaving a gentle kiss on Jeongin’s forehead. “Always.”

They remain like that, embracing, while the celebration continues around them. Words aren’t needed; the warmth of each other and the certainty that their family and friends support them are enough. It’s a small oasis of calm amid the bustle, a reminder that although the pregnancy has been difficult and exhausting, together they can overcome anything.

When they finally return to the center of the patio, Jeongin feels a little lighter, his heart full, and a smile that doesn’t fade. Seungmin takes his hand, and together they rejoin the celebration, ready to receive every hug, every congratulation, and every joyful moment life offers.

🐶🦊 + ☁️

Time passed with a strange rhythm, accelerated by excitement and slowed by exhaustion. After the December reception, Jeongin and Seungmin’s home became a constant hive of activity: doctors, friends, and family helping prepare for the baby. Each day brought small victories: Jeongin managed to keep up with his vitamins and supplements, learned to rest without guilt, and Seungmin found ways to balance work and caring for his husband, with the invaluable help of his support network.

Weekends were filled with baby shopping, crib trials, and decorations, while Jeongin, increasingly pregnant, supervised with a critical and exacting eye. Nights were full of slow embraces, hands caressing the belly that now clearly showed the life growing inside him, and whispered conversations about names, the future, and fears they didn’t always dare to voice aloud.

Family gatherings came one after another, with Jeongin always receiving special care and affection that sometimes made him blush, but also smile with an unfamiliar tranquility. The winter cold did nothing to diminish the warmth of their home: Seungmin always at his side, sometimes silent, sometimes with silly jokes to make him laugh, ensuring every uncomfortable moment was softened with love and patience.

February arrived, marked on the calendar: the 9th, a day after Jeongin’s birthday, scheduled for his cesarean. The morning was quiet, almost too silent, as if the world was holding its breath with them. Seungmin helped him up, walking slowly toward the hospital, each heavy step full of anticipation. Jeongin, with his prominent belly and the mix of nerves and excitement in his chest, couldn’t help but remember all the months that had led to this moment: every vomit, every sleepless night, every shared embrace and laugh.

When they arrived, Seungmin held his hand as the medical team guided them. There was nothing but love and trust in the air. Time, which had passed so quickly and yet so slowly, culminated in this moment. Jeongin looked at Seungmin, took a deep breath, and felt that, despite everything, he had never been more ready to welcome what was about to arrive.

“Let’s meet our baby,” Seungmin whispered, squeezing his hand.

The operating room was bright, clean, and quiet, save for the murmurs of the medical team and Seungmin’s soft encouragements to Jeongin. Every breath was a reminder of the journey they had shared: months of care, fear, and anticipated joy, all culminating in this instant.

Jeongin clutched Seungmin’s hand, his body trembling between the anesthesia and excitement. Seungmin, at his side, whispered reassuring words, reminding him he was there, that everything would be okay, that their family was about to grow.

“Close your eyes, aegi-ah. Breathe with me,” Seungmin said softly, his fingers entwined with Jeongin’s. He was dressed in the surgical scrubs given by the doctors so he could stay in the room with his omega.

Jeongin nodded, tears held back, his heart pounding, as both clung to the certainty that after months of waiting, love, and effort, the family they had dreamed of was about to begin.

Minutes that felt like eternity passed until a cry broke the silence of the operating room. Jeongin opened his eyes, anxious, and Seungmin held their newborn child toward him. Emotion flooded him immediately: tears, smiles, and a sense of completeness that no words could describe.

“It’s… perfect,” Jeongin said, his voice breaking as he stroked the baby’s cheek.

Seungmin rested his forehead against Jeongin’s, sharing a silent moment of pure happiness. The little one was wrapped in a soft blanket, tiny hands closing around Seungmin’s finger, eyes barely open, reflecting the warmth of a home filled with love.

“Welcome to our family,” Seungmin whispered, letting his voice break just a little.

“Welcome, Haneul,” his little piece of sky.