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Chapter Text

"Mom, I'm twenty seven. I am the CEO of a company. I'm a S-Class Alpha. I don't need your help to find a mate-" Shen Wenlang gets cut off with a slap on his back. His mother fixed him with a stern look.

"You are my son too, first and foremost. Don't forget that," She turns him to face the mirror with surprising strength and fixes his suit. "Just this once. Xiaoshuai is wonderful. You'll definitely like him. He's not just pretty, he's also well educated and very smart. He's perfect in every way."

"I am educated and smart too. I have never heard you say that about me," Wenlang complains, and his mom rolls his eyes. "Being educated doesn't mean you are smart."

"Pardon me?" Wenlang blinks at her, offended. His mother ignores him. 

"He's a doctor, and he's contributed so much to society. He also does charitable work-" Mrs. Shen goes on and on. Wenlang tunes her out and sighs tiredly. 

"Alright, it's time, kid. Don't be late. Greet Xiaoshuai politely, and pull the chair for him to sit. Be a gentleman," She leans in, a stern look on her face. "Come back as a victor, or don't come back at all."

Wenlang gulps. His mother scared him sometimes. 

"Alright alright, calm down," He pats her shoulder assuringly. "Your son always wins. Don't worry."

With that, he rushes outside before his mother could say something else.

Love, according to Wenlang, was something that should happen naturally. He didn't believe in looking for it.

His ex-girlfriend was an omega, and she'd been the sweetest person ever, but after two years of being in a relationship, Wenlang realised that it was a facade. 

After she'd cheated on him, Wenlang realised that love was simply just a waste of time. It wore people down emotionally. And after a while, when he'd healed from the heartbreak, he'd started to enjoy his own company. He didn't need someone else to take up his time, when he could fill it up easily.

But still, his family kept telling him he would feel lonely and regret it later. 

And in a corner of his mind, Wenlang was worried too. He had moments where being by himself was too much. When seeing his friends be lovey dovey with others made him wish for it too.

That's why, he'd agreed to go on the blind date arranged by his mom, though, honestly, he didn't really have a lot of hope. 

He gets in the car and lets out a deep breath. "Let's do this, Wenlang."

"Ge, please. Just this once," Jiang Xiaoshuai was on his knees, begging Gao Tu, his flatmate and friend of fifteen years. 

Tu shakes his head. "This is a bad idea. Why don't you just tell your mom that you are dating someone else?"

"She doesn't approve of Chengyu yet," Xiaoshuai sighs dramatically. "Please. Just this once. I'll find a way to tell her that I'm seeing someone else."

After a while of relentless begging, Tu finally gives in. "Fine. But you owe me those blueberry lemon desserts Chengyu makes. A cheesecake, the cake, muffins and the bread."

Xiaoshuai jumps up on glee and hugs Tu. "Yes! Anything for you. That's easy!"

Tu shakes his head, exclaiming as Xiaoshuai drags him to his closet. "Okay. I'll tell you everything you need to know about the guy."

He pushes Tu to sit on the bed and rummages his wardrobe for clothes. "His name is Shen Wenlang, and he's twenty seven. So, three years older than me but a year younger than you. Speak to him formally just in case. He's an S-Class Alpha, and he's the CEO of HS Group."

"Wait, a CEO?! Xiaoshuai that's..." Tu furrows his eyebrows in worry. Xiaoshuai shakes his head. "It'll be fine! Don't worry. I know a common friend, and he said Shen Wenlang is pretty chill," Then, he pauses. "Though, if he tries something or is a creep, run away and tell me immediately. I'll fight him for you."

"I know Chengyu would be the one fighting, but thanks for offering, Shuai," Tu chuckles. Xiaoshuai pulls out a slightly formal suit and pushes Tu to change.

After Tu was done, Xiaoshuai drags him to the mirror and applies light makeup on him. Tu sighs. "Do we really need makeup? I thought you didn't want him to like me? You? Us? Uh..."

"Us. Let's go with that. It's just to make a good impression anyway. I'm only highlighting the features of your handsome face," Xiaoshuai says, smiling. Tu rolls his eyes. "Damn. You are being way too nice today. You never called me handsome before this."

"Of course I did! You must have forgotten," The younger giggles, and makes quick work of fixing his hair. "Besides, do I need to tell you? You were so popular in University. Do you remember that guy... Ben? He still asks Chengyu about you. He's still waiting after all these years."

Tu bursts out laughing. "Ben?! You mean Bin."

"Whatever. And there was Ming too. And Hao," Xiaoshuai lists off and Tu shakes his head, chuckling. "You're exaggerating. I'll go on the date, you don't have to gas me up this much."

"Hehe. But genuinely. Thank you. I'll get you those desserts," Xiaoshuai promises and the two hug once again. Tu hugs him back and makes a sound as he remembered something. "Oh yes. Next week, I need some help with a client's wedding. Tell Chengyu to contact me, I need a photographer."

Xiaoshuai nods. "Sure," He breaks the hug and smiles at Tu. "Now, go and slay this date. I know this will be hard for you, but just be boring. That's all. We want Wenlang to not be interested in us."

Tu nods. "Got it."

So, on a random wednesday evening, Tu finds himself walking to the cafe where he was arranged to meet the mysterious Wenlang who he wasn't supposed to make any impression on.

Xiaoshuai was texting Wenlang, and was giving Tu instructions on what to do. 

Shuai

he said hes sat in table 5

grey suit

Gao Tu

ok

Shuai

good luck ge

thanks again

Gao Tu

ok

Shuai

🙄

Tu was walking in as the doctor, Jiang Xiaoshuai. He pauses and exhales, patting his chest. "You can do this, Gao Tu."

He walks towards the table where Wenlang sat, his back facing the man. Tu walks around and faces Wenlang. "Uhm, Hi?"

Wenlang, who was on his phone looks up, and freezes. He blinks repeatedly, staring at Tu with his mouth slightly agape. 

"Uhm?" Tu repeats himself, feeling his cheek warm. Xiaoshuai forgot to tell him Wenlang was very, very good looking. And the way he was staring now- Tu felt butterflies.

"Oh!" Wenlang snaps out of it and stands up hastily. "Sorry. Hi. Jiang Xiaoshuai?" He extends his hand. "Nice to meet you."

Tu takes his hand and shakes it with a shy smile. "Nice to meet you too, Mr. Shen."

"Please, sit," Wenlang urges, moving to pull the chair for Tu to sit. Tu does as he was told and smiles at Wenlang. "Thank you."

Wenlang takes the seat opposite him, his stare intimidating and assessing, but not unkind. Tu looks down at the plate, unable to hold the CEO's gaze. 

"What would you like to order?" The waiter walks over and questions, and the two order things from the menu.

Once the waiter was gone, awkward silence settles over them. Tu steals glances at Wenlang, who chuckles. "You don't have to be so nervous, Dr. Jiang."

"Sorry," Tu mumbles. "It's just been a while..."

"Hmm. Is it your day off today?" Wenlang questions, and Tu shakes his head. Xiaoshuai had a morning shift. "I had a morning shift."

"That's good. What exactly do you do?"

At first, Wenlang asks questions about Xiaoshuai's job- and Tu answers everything he knew, and then, Tu mentions something offhandedly when asked about his hobbies. "I like to play this game."

Wenlang's eyes brighten immediately, and he sets the cup down. "Oh? I play it too!"

Tu smiles too, excited, as none of his friends played that specific one. "That's great! What rank are you on?!"

"I'm in emerald," Wenlang says, and the conversation shifts, flowing more comfortably. 

Wenlang was sarcastic, and quite funny. Combined with Tu's dry sense of humor, the two were laughing together and hour into their blind date. For a second, Tu forgets that he was not supposed to leave an impression on Wenlang.

Xiaoshuai's text asking him how he was gets ignored.

"I love Sang Yan's character. But Wen Yifan? She's amazing too. The drama is a bit slow burn, but it's so good and makes you feel so warm," Xiaoshuai talks about a drama he'd seen recently. He sighs dreamily. "The way he takes care of her? The small things and the acts of service? He's perfect."

Wenlang props his elbow on the table and leans his face on his hand, watching Xiaoshuai go on and on about the drama. He was very cute, and Wenlang enjoyed talking to him.

After so many years, he was actually enjoying spending time with someone new.

But his ex had started kind too, and look where that ended.

"Those kinds of people don't exist in real life," Wenlang mutters, smiling softly, thinking back on how he'd been a few years ago. Xiaoshuai takes a bite of the dessert and chews thoughtfully. "Maybe not like him. We are human, and it's hard to be that loving and attentive sometimes."

Wenlang furrows his eyebrows, listening to Xiaoshuai who continues. "To love someone is not that easy. It takes sacrifice, it takes a lot of work. Some people find it easy to love, some find it hard to love. But at the end of the day, it boils down to whether the person is a good companion."

"But how can you be with someone if you don't love them?" Wenlang questions, and Xiaoshuai sighs. "In wedding planning, we-"

"What?" Wenlang asks, and the other male blinks at him sheepishly. "I mean! My friend. My friend is a wedding planner."

"Oh. Do continue," Wenlang listens intently.

Xiaoshuai clears his throat looking a little sheepish. "He said that couples sometimes marry for money, or looks, or because they are so in love with that person. The first two are questionable, but I think the third one isn't that great too," He pauses before continuing. "At the end of the day, love is an emotion. What is more important, is if the person's character and the compatibility in that area. Are they supportive? Are they kind? Do the morals match? You can always fall in love with someone without any of those things. But if the core beliefs don't match and if the person isn't what you need, when the initial spark dies, how will you keep going?"

Wenlang had never heard of someone talking about the topic of marriage in such a way. Sure, he was aware that marriage was not just about love, but no one had laid it out for him like this.

"Then," Wenlang starts, poking at the last bits of his cake. "How you do choose a mate? How can one make sure a partner of all of these things you said?"

"Well, I always- I mean my friend who also does matchmaking sometimes, always suggests to form a friendship first. Then, simply talk and find out the rest. You don't have to be in love immediately," Xiaoshuai says, smiling softly. "You can always learn to love someone who's great for you. Everyone is trying to survive, and what we need is a friend who will be with us in that journey."

Wenlang leans back and nods thoughtfully. All this time, he'd thought he had to fall in love with someone and then, that person would be his mate. 

His ex wasn't someone he'd agreed with on a lot of things. She was pretty, and was nice to him sometimes, but would get upset when things didn't go her way. She'd never shown interest in his hobbies too most of the time they were together, just focusing on her and her only. She never showed up to his games to show support. 

It was always going on a date to some cafe, talking, and maybe spending time with each other during ruts and heats.

Wenlang had thought all this time, maybe this is how it was because he loved her.

Now, he wonders, what did he even love about her? Did he loved the concept of who she was?

He chuckles. "Wow. I've never thought about it like that."

Xiaoshuai smiles at him and eats his cake. "Haha. Oh wait, you said you played golf, tell me more!"

Wenlang blinks at Xiaoshuai, suddenly remembering how his ex girlfriend never liked it when he talked about golf as she found it boring. "It's boring."

"That's not true! You like it! I'm curious, tell me," Xiaoshuai urges.

For the first time in a while, Wenlang felt hope. He wanted to try again.

Wenlang's lips tilt upwards. "Have you played it?"

"Not really," Xiaoshuai replies sheepishly.

Wenlang hesitates for a second before he replies. "Then, for our second date, I can take you there if you want?"

Xiaoshuai blinks at Wenlang. "Second... date?"

Wenlang bites his lip and scratches his neck sheepishly. "I mean. You're fun to talk to. I would like to get to know you more."

"Second date?!" The real Xiaoshuai screams as soon as Tu explains what happened in the date. He flinches and steps back, but Xiaoshuai grabs him and shakes him repeatedly. "We are done for!"

"Just lie to him via text and reject him," Tu says, sighing exasperatedly. Somewhere along the way, he'd forgotten to pretend to be Xiaoshuai, and had just been himself.

But Wenlang? He was genuinely fun to be around. But Tu knew that the man would not be happy to find out that he'd been essentially scammed, and would probably not treat him the same as he did during the date once he came to learn the truth.

"I- fine. Okay," Xiaoshuai gives up after seeing the dejected look on Tu's face. "Sorry, it's not your fault. I made you do this. I'll sort it out too, okay?"

Tu nods, and retires to his room.

That night, all he thinks about is Wenlang, the way he listened attentively, and his gaze. 

Tu had many admirers before, but he didn't feel pulled towards someone like Wenlang. 

"Don't be impractical, Tu," He reminds himself. He couldn't possibly have fallen for someone in the first date- that he was supposed to be pretending as someone else?!

He rolls around in bed and groans, regretting taking up Xiaoshuai's offer.

Damn it!

But life was funny sometimes, because the next time Gao Tu runs into Shen Wenlang is the very next day, at a wedding of Tu's client.

"Xiaoshuai, good to see you here," Wenlang greets a panicking Tu. "Fancy seeing you here! Is it your day off again?"

Tu wasn't even given time to mentally prepare a lie or a way to escape.

The sister of the bride, who was standing there, looks at him and Wenlang and blinks in confusion.

"His name is Gao Tu," She corrects. "Also, what do you mean day off? He's literally the wedding planner. Who would make sure everything goes well if he isn't here?"

Tu looks at Wenlang, who's eyes were wide with shock and confusion.

Then comes understanding.

And Gao Tu? 

He runs away.

Chapter Text

Wenlang, after a long time, was finally feeling something new after meeting someone.

He was feeling hopeful.

That maybe, just maybe, he may find a companion to spend his life with.

After he'd gone home from the date, he'd been in an unusually good mood, smiling at everyone in the house instead of brooding like he usually did.

His dad, who was used to seeing him frown, nearly dropped something at the rare sight of seeing his son smile. 

"Mei Zhi, is he okay? Why is he smiling like that? I'm scared," He whispers to his wife, who elbows him harshly. "Shhh. The date must have gone well! See? I knew what was best for him in the end."

Wenlang smiles at them after they were done with dinner, and hugs his mom. This too, was a rare occurrence. His father rubs his eyes. "This is not our son. This is someone else."

"The food was amazing, mom. So was the... date," Wenlang tells her, and hugs his dad too. "I saw the garden. Good work on the roses, dad."

His dad's jaw was on the floor at this point, while his mom smiled at Wenlang happily. "Oh sweetie. I'm glad you liked it!"

"I'm going to sleep now! Goodnight, mom and dad!" Wenlang greets them before sauntering off to his room, a skip in his steps that hadn't been there before.

"Mei Zhi, did you send him to a magician? Our son, smiling? Talking to us? Talking to me? Noticing the flowers? Saying goodnight??? That's not my son." His father says, his mouth agape when Wenlang waves goodbye at them before disappearing into his room.

Zhi slaps his arm. "Be quiet. He's found love! That's why he's happy. Soon, he'll be married, and our grandkids will be running around in this house!"

She starts to tear up at the end, and Wenlang's dad rubs her head, feeling emotional as well. Their son had not been himself since his breakup after all.

But now, it seems like something had changed. 

Wenlang was in his room, changed into pajamas after showering. He falls onto his bed dramatically, face first into the pillows, still smiling despite himself.

He thinks of Xiaoshuai, and how cute he'd been, and sighs dreamily. He takes his phone out, considering sending a text, but he decides against it, not wanting to push the male too much, as he already seemed somewhat shy. 

His minds drifts to the conversation they'd had in regards to marriage.

"....Everyone is trying to survive, and what we need is a friend who will be with us in that journey."

"A friend, huh.." Wenlang mutters, looking at the ceiling. 

He'd taken over his father's company just recently. Prior to that, due to his status as S-Class Alpha, he didn't really have that many friends. Very few people genuinely wanted to be his friend. The rest either wanted to stay close because of his status or because of how well off his family was.

Wenlang was aware he was quite intimidating as well, and that would probably push people away too. Even so, Xiaoshuai seemed to get along with him very well. It had been ages since Wenlang even had someone to talk to about the game he loved to play. 

Man, how alone had he been that he'd accepted it was normal? 

As an Alpha, he was prideful, and didn't want to be emotional. But now, Wenlang realised- he felt a little lonely. 

And it was nice to have someone to talk about his hobbies no matter how dumb they might have been. It was nice to have someone laugh at his sarcastic jokes. 

Wenlang missed having that in his life. He missed being happy and carefree- something he'd willingly given up for his career. But it didn't mean he couldn't mourn it, right?

Xiaoshuai, despite having met Wenlang once, was already making him rethink everything about his life, and had uncovered all the emotions he'd kept buried in his life without realising.

And Wenlang? He closes his eyes, smiling softly. 

He couldn't wait to see the omega with the sage scent again.

The next day at the wedding venue

Wenlang watches as Xiaoshuai- no, Gao Tu runs away from him and the Bride's sister.

"Mr. Gao?!" She shouts after him, confused. Wenlang, who was frozen in place snaps out of it. He takes off after the male, his long legs giving him an advantage to catch up quickly.

They were in a hallway near the kitchen, when Wenlang grabs Tu's hand and stops him. "Hey-"

Tu struggles, and so Wenlang grabs his shoulder and pushes him against the wall, more rougher than intended. Tu groans. "Ow-"

"Who the hell are you?!" Wenlang questions, his eyebrows furrowed, anger in his tone. He places his arms on either side of Tu, caging him in place so that he couldn't run away.

Tu looks at him, eyes wide with fear and rambles. "I- I'm so sorry! I can explain- I came instead of my friend, he couldn't come because something else came up, I'm so sorry!"

Wenlang grits his teeth, and quickly pulls out his phone to call Xiaoshuai, whoever he was. The phone was answered after a few rings. "Hello? Mr. Shen?"

"I'm with your friend Gao Tu right now," He says. After a few seconds, he hears cursing on the other side. "Fuck!"

The line goes dead. Tu whimpers, even more scared now. Wenlang scoffs. "This is your friend? What a loser."

"Mr. Gao?" Someone from the party calls, and Tu tries to escape, but Wenlang holds his arm. "Where do you think you are going?!"

"Mr. Shen, I'm so sorry. But I need to go right now! How about this, once the party is over, we can talk? Okay?" Tu pleads. 

Even though Wenlang was pissed off, he wasn't heartless. He rolls his eyes and moves away from Tu, not even sparing the man a glance as he sprinted from Wenlang with a speed that could put Usain Bolt to shame.

Once he was gone, Wenlang punches the wall, upset.

Immediately, he retracts it when pain bloomed through his knuckle. He grabs his hand and mumbles, pained. "Ouch. That hurt."

He couldn't even be dramatic after he'd got played.

Throughout the event, the creature returns to its default state: brooding.

Fellow creatures tried to socialize, but the creature who got played only grunted in response. 

However, the creature couldn't deny one thing- Gao Tu was very cute.

But Tu knew that the creature was dangerous, so he put a distance of approximately ten feet between them at all times.

The creature named Wenlang was almost impressed by how good the other male was at avoiding him.

Wenlang watches as Tu runs around the venue, organizing everything, smiling at guests, doing everything but acknowledge Wenlang's existence. 

The audacity? 

But on the other hand, Wenlang found himself still gazing at Tu, never looking away for more than a few minutes. He wanted Tu to notice him.

Because whenever he did, he would look away immediately, and his ears turned red, like now.

Wenlang masks his smirk of satisfaction by taking a sip of his wine. He grimaces when he realised the glass was empty. When he looked around, he realised a lot of the guests had already left.

He'd been so busy staring at Tu he'd missed the damn reception, and he does a double take when he realises the bride and groom were there. He hadn't even seen them walk in.

Wenlang moves to pour some wine from the bottle on the table, and sighs when he realised it was empty. Why was everything going wrong for him that day?

He glances at the time, and decides he had to leave soon, so he quickly wishes the couple well, reciting his practiced speech and gives them his gift.

When he turns to leave, he looks for Tu, so he could talk to him, ask for an explanation- only to find that the male was nowhere in sight.

He looks around frantically, and finds Tu trying to sneak away outside the venue. Wenlang dramatically takes a swig of his wine glass- which was still empty and runs after Tu.

He grabs the male's arm once they were outside, and Tu loses his balance, nearly falling back onto Wenlang, who catches him easily. "Woah! Steady!"

Tu freezes up and looks up at him- the fear returning to his eyes. For a second, Wenlang frowns. Why was this guy so scared?

"Hey! Leave my friend alone, green onion!" Someone says, and Wenlang is barely given a moment to register what was said to him before Tu was torn away from his arms. He mourns the warmth immediately. 

Also, what the fuck? Green onion?!

"The hell did you say to me?" He asks the new comer- a short omega. The guy pushes Tu behind him protectively, and for a second, Wenlang was almost jealous when he sees Tu clutch the man's shoulders tightly.

Jealous? Pfft.

"Look at your suit! Aren't you a CEO? Don't you have money to buy something nice? What the hell is this suit?" The omega roasts him. Wenlang gapes and points at accusatory finger at him. "Who the hell are you? Are you a fashionista? You are wearing flip flops with skinny jeans. Pretty sure that's a crime! If the fashion police were here, you would be sent to prison immediately for life!"

"You!" The man leaves Tu to fight Wenlang, but the male immediately puts himself between them. "Guys stop fighting! There's people here!"

Wenlang scoffs. "This lunatic is the one who attacked me first!"

"My name is Xiaoshuai! If anything, the lunatic is you!" Xiaoshuai was ready to square up again. Tu pulls him back. "Xiaoshuai don't-"

"Oh you are the Xiaoshuai! My mother praised you so much!" Wenlang starts sarcastically. "She didn't tell me you are a scammer!"

Xiaoshuai opens his mouth to fight again, but calms down when Tu pleads, "Please don't! Let's just clear it all up, okay?"

The fashionista wearing flip flops with skinny jeans rolls his eyes. "Listen Shen Wenlang, I'm sorry, okay? I was forced into the date, I had an important surgery so I couldn't go. I also have a boyfriend."

Wenlang scoffs. "Why the hell didn't you cancel the date then?!"

"My mom wouldn't let me!" Xiaoshuai sighs, shaking his head. "I will tell her and clear this up. Now, stop harassing my friend!"

Wenlang gapes at the accusation. "Harassing?! The heck? I'm not-"

"If you ever touch him again, I will break every finger in your hand while making you watch it. I know how to," Xiaoshuai says, and ends it by cracking his knuckles. Wenlang blinks at him, just a tad bit scared.

"F-Fuck you guys!" He says, throwing the middle finger at them before storming off.

Stupid omegas and their skinny jeans and Gao Tu and his cute face.

When the creature returns to his habitat, his parents witness a giant storm cloud on his path.

"Sweetie," Wenlang's mom calls for him, not noticing Wenlang glare at nothing in particular. His dad does, and he sighs in relief. His son was back to normal. He was genuinely worried that Wenlang lost his marbles because he was smiling creepily the day prior.

"Could you please invite Xiaoshuai for dinner tomorrow?" Wenlang's mom asks him, and he pauses. "What?"

"Your uncle and aunt are coming. They will ask questions, so bring him along to shut them up. It could also be a good opportunity for us to meet him. I've heard he's pretty but I've never seen him before, so I'm curious," She says, focused on cutting some fruit.

"You've never seen him before, yet you called him pretty?!" Wenlang questions, flabbergasted. "You see me everyday yet you have never once complimented me."

"You look okay," She says, taking a slice of apple and feeding him. "Now, be good and call him okay?"

"I can't," Wenlang tells her, munching on the apple with a frown. "Did you say I look okay?"

"His mom told me, okay? I assumed he's pretty. Why? Is he not?" She asks him, raising an eyebrow. Wenlang thinks about it and grabs another piece of apple and bites it angrily. 

Gao Tu was very pretty.

But that was beside the point! He scammed Wenlang by scheming along with his stupid flip flop wearing friend! 

"Doesn't matter," He says dismissively. "I can't call Ga- I mean Xiaoshuai."

Wenlang's mother takes the knife back in her hand. "Why not?"

"I- I-" Wenlang stutters in fear. Suddenly, the storm cloud over his head was replaced by a light bulb. His mother had never seen Xiaoshuai before. 

He could also get his revenge.

Wenlang smiles at his mom. "I will call him."

The next morning, Wenlang calls Xiaoshuai.

He gets ignored six times. 

The seventh time, the male picks up, annoyed. "Mr. Shen, I thought I told you that we were over-"

"Do you think you can speak to me like that when you owe me?" He asks, trying to put on his threatening CEO voice. But this Xiaoshuai was a fearless diva it seems. "What are you, a loan shark? I don't owe you anything. Yes, I sent my friend, but you enjoyed yourself didn't you? That's why you asked for a second date! You like him!"

Wenlang gapes at his phone and tries to deny the slander. "I do not like him."

"Sure, whatever you say. Now, I will tell this to you once and once only. Stop bothering me!" Xiaoshuai warns him. Wenlang sighs. "Hey-"

The line goes dead.

Wenlang blinks at the phone. The amount of disrespect was crazy.

He sighs, trying to rack his brain on what to do next. If he didn't show up with someone, his mom would definitely kill him.

Then, he remembers.

Gao Tu.

Wenlang gets the address of the place Gao Tu works at within fifteen minutes. 

Within an hour, he finds himself standing in front of a quaint pink building with a sign that read: The Perfect Match.

He scoffs, puts his hands inside his pockets and walks in.

By sheer luck, Gao Tu was there, standing in the lobby, clutching a data pad, obviously waiting for someone. He was dressed in clothes that made him look softer, with glasses that made him look even cuter.

As the creature approached him, Tu's eyes widened in fear.

"Mr. Shen? What- what are you doing here?" He asks, forcing his tone to be polite and customer facing. Wenlang smiles at him sarcastically. "I came here to catch a fish, obviously."

"We- we don't have fishes here," Tu replies sheepishly. "If you go outside and step right, Mrs. Wan has a shop that sells good quality fish."

"Are you being serious right now?" Wenlang questions. Tu nods and tries to walk away but Wenlang blocks his path. Tu looks at him. "This is my office-"

"I need you to pretend to be my boyfriend tonight," Wenlang says outright, and this makes Tu freeze in his spot, his mouth falling open, making him look like a fish. It was cute.

"I- I can't do that...." He replies after a little while. Wenlang squints at him, and folds his arms over his chest. "Then, I will go to Xiaoshuai's parents house and expose what he did immediately."

Tu's eyes widened, and he grabs Wenlang's shoulder in fear. "No! No! I'll do anything. Please don't do that to my friend!"

Wenlang scoffs internally. This man was so easily swayed, unlike his diva of a friend.

But externally, he smiles at Tu and nods. "Fine. I'll pick you up after work. What time do you finish?"

"At five.." Tu replies hesitantly. "Can you give me your address first? So that I can verify its an actual house?"

Wenlang blinks at him. "What? Why?"

Tu looks away and covers his chest. "You- you're an Alpha. You're asking me to go somewhere I have never been before, what if you kidnap me? Or.. or..."

Wenlang gapes at Tu, and then scoffs in utter disbelief. "You!" He points his finger at Tu. "Who the hell do you take me for? I am not going to- fucking hell-"

Then, grumpily, he gestures at Tu. "Give me your phone. I'll type the address."

Tu hesitates again before giving it to Wenlang, who shakes his head at Tu before typing the address. It was crazy that he was being assumed to be a bad person when he had been scammed not even a few days ago.

"Do I need to change into something else?" Tu questions Wenlang after getting his phone back. He pulls at his shirt, a sheepish look on his face.

Wenlang examines him by dragging his eyes from Tu's feet to his face. Without thinking, he replies, "No need. You look good already."

This earns Wenlang a delightful sight- of Tu's cheeks getting tinted pink. The male stutters. "Oh. Uhm. Okay."

Wenlang scratches his neck awkwardly and nods, nearly running into someone as he walked to the couch.

But it was the truth. 

Gao Tu looked good.

Too good.

On the way to Wenlang's house, the car was filled with awkward silence.

Wenlang couldn't take it anymore, so he clears his throat. "So, why did you choose this career?"

Tu perks up at the question, and stops fiddling his fingers anxiously. He looks at Wenlang, and then looks at the front. "It's... interesting."

"How?" Wenlang questions, sparing a glance at Tu, who takes a second to respond.

"I mean. I didn't really choose it, but it chose me, you know?" Tu says, a small smile on his face. "I came here to make extra cash many years ago. I saw so many different kind of people, but the atmosphere is generally positive with just a few bad apples here and there. It's... wholesome. Seeing people being in love, it's so... beautiful you know?"

Wenlang lets out a sarcastic chuckle. "It's all bullshit. It's not all beautiful like you think it is."

The car stops as they come to a red light, and Wenlang turns to look at the other male, who was frowning. "That's a very negative way of looking at things. Especially after our talk that day, don't you think?"

"Well, that's how I feel. Love is an overrated feeling. Also, there is no guarantee that everyone will find it," Wenlang replies casually, and starts the car again when the traffic light changes to green. Tu shakes his head. "That's not true at all. There is someone for everyone, and everyone will find their person someday."

Wenlang was struck by the raw sincerity in Tu's tone. He too, had thought that after meeting Tu. But look at him now. Despite himself, he felt slightly upset.

"Also, our talk that day, you say? May I remind you that was fake?" He quickly looks at Tu. "Was your personality fake that day too?"

Tu frowns, and leans back into his seat and looks at Wenlang, his eyes showing mild frustration. "We apologised already. And no- that was not fake."

Wenlang nods, secretly relieved, but also not that surprised. Tu seemed the same even now, just a little scared of Wenlang, though he had no idea why.

Silence settles in the car for a little bit after that. Wenlang notices Tu looked somewhat upset- was it because of something he said? 

He is the one who scammed me, why is he upset at me saying the truth?

But then, Wenlang hated seeing that look on Tu's face. So, he clears his throat, deciding to deviate back to what they were talking about earlier.

"Mr. Gao, you say everyone will find love. What about you? Have you found it?" He questions. He was partially curious, but another part of him was almost worried at what the answer would be. Tu shakes his head sheepishly. 

Wenlang chuckles, strangely relieved. "You help others find love, yet you don't have someone already?"

But then again, how was it possible this beautiful omega didn't have someone already?

Wait, beautiful? What am I thinking?!

"It's just not the right time yet. I know.. one day it will happen, and my love will find me," Tu says, his tone soft and hopeful. 

My love... Huh?

Wenlang, despite himself, found it endearing. It was so innocent and pure- and so hopeful that he didn't have a sarcastic comeback for it.

I hope you do.

Suddenly, an idea pops up in his mind. 

"Then, Mr. Gao," Wenlang starts, "If you are so confident about love, can you find someone for me? A partner?"

Tu blinks at him, confused. "Huh?"

"I was on that date that day because my mom wants me to fall in love and get married soon. You work in the field of wedding planning and match making. You can help me, right?" Wenlang asks, parking the car in the garage of his house. He glances at Tu. "You can do it, right?"

Wenlang, to be completely honest, had no idea why he was asking Tu to do this for him. It was strange- he didn't even like the concept of blind dates, and he'd been scammed by the very man who he was seeking help from now.

But something about the way Tu spoke about love, even though Wenlang didn't believe in it fully, made him curious. 

If Tu had done this before, maybe, he could help Wenlang find someone.

For the first time, Tu looked confident. "Of course I can!"

"Remember, my mom thinks you are Xiaoshuai," Wenlang instructs as they walk inside the house. "Since we technically just started dating, don't worry if you don't know something about me. Just remember to smile more when you see me. You look at me like I'm about to bite you or something."

Tu blushes at that, and shakes his head, scandalized by the choice of wording. "No, I don't! You just look scary!"

The creature takes personal offence to it, but sighs defeatedly instead of arguing back, as his mother opened the door at the moment.

She looks at Tu, and squeals at a frequency that could be used to communicate with dolphins. "Oh my! Xiaoshuai! You look so handsome! Welcome, come in, come in!"

Wenlang doesn't even get acknowledged as his mother smiles at Tu, and gently escorts him inside the house. Tu flashes Wenlang a shy smile, obviously nervous. 

Wenlang's pulse thundered in his chest at that simple action. He blinks at Tu, speechless for a few seconds. His mother snickers. 

Dinner goes by relatively smooth, with Wenlang's aunt and uncle doting on Tu as well. Tu was very social, and good at chatting with everyone and quite jovial. Within half an hour into their dinner, everyone, including Wenlang (though he won't admit it yet) were charmed.

"I know you haven't been dating very long, but you should start thinking about marrying soon! You two look good together, your babies will look so beautiful!" His aunt says. Tu spits out his drink in his cup, and Wenlang chokes on the noodles. 

The damn oldies, already asking for kids. I literally met him two days ago?!

"We can tell you both really like each other already. Besides, it's not advisable for an alpha and omega to spend too long without getting married. You two are young and hot blooded, so don't waste time!" His uncle adds. Wenlang was too flabbergasted to reply. When Tu coughs again, he reaches out to pat the male's back instinctually.

The whole table coos at the bare minimum action. What happened to standards? 

"Yeah, Wenlang's scent is sweeter, isn't it? When an alpha chooses their mate-" His mother starts, but Wenlang clears his throat loudly, mortified. "MOTHER where is the dessert?! We want dessert. Could you please bring dessert?"

Thankfully, the distraction tactic works, and his mother goes to retrieve the dessert. Wenlang refused to look at Tu, who was also probably dying. Wenlang felt bad for him. Almost.

His mother brings out blueberry lemon cheesecake, and immediately, Wenlang notices Tu's eyes brighten up. He recalled how the male loved that specific combo, so when his mother serves him his portion, he pushes it to Tu.

The male gives him a confused look, and Wenlang looks away, pretending to be nonchalant. "I'm full. You are the guest here, so you should eat it."

Unexpectedly, that earns him a genuine smile from Tu. Without realising, Wenlang smiles back.

Beside them, the oldies were losing their minds at the love blossoming- even the two people falling didn't fully realised it just yet.

After a while, Tu and Wenlang had excused themselves to go and wash the dishes.

They worked in silence, with Tu doing the washing while Wenlang wiped the utensils.

The silence between them was comfortable, but it was broken when Tu gasps softly. Wenlang turns to him, and curses under his breath when he sees a small cut on Tu's hand from washing the knife.

Wenlang grabs Tu's hand, and runs it under water first. Then, without thinking, he pulls it up to his mouth, and sucks on the finger.

He doesn't notice Tu's breath catching, but when he looks up, he sees the delightful blush on the omega's face. 

Wenlang realises what he was doing and immediately stops. "I- sorry!"

But then, he hears footsteps. Tu is barely given a chance to react before Wenlang puts an arm around him and pulls him close. "My mom's here."

His mom walks in and gasps. "Oh my! I'm sorry!"

After she'd run outside, Wenlang moves back. Tu's cheeks were as red as a tomato. "You! What are you doing?"

Wenlang finds his reaction funny, and he wiggles his eyebrows. "I'm with my boyfriend now, aren't I?"

Tu gapes at him, trying and failing to have a comeback. Wenlang chuckles. "Sorry. Wait here."

He rummages through the bottom drawers and gets a bandaid from the first aid kit. "Hold still," He tells Tu gently, and puts the bandaid on the cut. "Be careful, okay? I'll wash the dishes now. You should go back and chat with the others."

Tu blinks at him, and then shakes his head. "I- I'll stay here and help."

Wenlang shakes his head. "Hey, no. You are injured-"

"I didn't break an arm, Mr. Shen," Tu says, moving beside Wenlang to wipe the plates instead. "I'll do this at least."

Wenlang sighs and nods, pulling the sleeves of his shirt up, and starts to wash the rest of the dishes. Silence settles between them again.

Tu pauses wiping and looks at Wenlang. "Mr. Shen?"

Wenlang turns to him and raises an eyebrow. "Hmm?"

"About your future partner, what is your type? Do you have any preference?" He questions, and Wenlang pauses for a couple of seconds. Tu was taking this seriously. He hums thoughtfully. "I don't. Alpha, Beta is fine."

Tu blinks at him, a little surprised. "You don't like omegas?"

Wenlang stops washing and exhales. "Not necessarily. They aren't my first preference. Why, is there a problem?"

It was not traditional for an Alpha to not prefer omega's, but Wenlang couldn't care that much about what people thought.

"No," Tu smiles at him sheepishly. "I mean, your mom was setting you up with omegas, but you don't prefer them. I was just... surprised, I guess?"

"She won't listen to me. I don't prefer omegas because my ex-girlfriend was one, and she cheated on me," Wenlang says casually, his lips tilting into a frown. "I just find omegas difficult to trust since then."

Speaking about his ex was weird. It didn't hurt anymore, but it was once a deep wound that had left behind a scar that itched sometimes. He thinks about her- about how she looked up with wide eyes, acting cute when she wanted something, always seeking cuddles- but it was all a lie in the end. Wenlang's frown deepens without realising.

"I'm sorry about that," Tu replies, frowning as well, his eyes reflecting sadness, clearly empathising with Wenlang. "Not- not all omegas are like that though. You shouldn't give up because one person hurt you, Mr. Shen."

The words were not meant to be hurtful, nor malicious, but for some reason, it ticks Wenlang off. 

She wasn't just one person- she was once Wenlang's world. Someone he'd planned to have a future with.

Wenlang turns off the water, and regards Tu with a glare. "Hah. Were you there when it happened? When she broke my heart and left me for someone else?"

Tu shakes his head. "Mr. Shen, that's not what I meant-"

The sound of footsteps makes him stop. Then, with wide eyes, and his eyes apologetic, Tu gets on his toes, and quickly embraces Wenlang in a tight hug. 

Wenlang opens his mouth to argue, but he too shuts up when he hears the sounds of footsteps. Slowly, he hugs Tu back.

It takes a second for him to register what was happening.

Tu was hugging Wenlang. 

This omega, who he'd known for two days, was hugging Wenlang, yet it felt so natural. It was like he'd known Wenlang forever.

This close, Wenlang gets a whiff of sage- pleasant and uncharacteristically sweet. Almost immediately, he calms down, the ugly emotion he felt at the mention of his ex-girlfriend flying out of the window. Right now, his focus was on Tu, and how perfect he felt in Wenlang's arms. 

His mother clears her throat, breaking the moment. "Sweeties, Uncle and Aunt are leaving! Came here to call you two lovebirds to say goodbye to them."

Tu releases Wenlang slowly, and their eyes meet. Tu looks away, shy, while Wenlang was again at a loss for words. He looks at his mom and nods. "We'll be there."

His wolf however- for the first time in his life, was restless.

After a somewhat awkward goodbye, Wenlang's mother urges Gao Tu to stay the night as it was late.

"I don't want to be a bother," Tu tries awkwardly, but she wouldn't budge. Wenlang simply shrugs instead of helping.

That's how Tu finds himself following Wenlang to the guest room. He texts a lie to Xiaoshuai so that the man wouldn't be worried about him. 

"Here, these should fit you," Wenlang says, giving Tu a pair of shirt and trousers to change into. "The bathroom has towels in it already. If you need anything else, let me know."

"It should be fine. Thank you, Mr. Shen," Tu says, taking the clothes from Wenlang's hand. The alpha shakes his head at him. "I should be the one thanking you."

Tu nods, and their eyes meet again- and for the first time, Wenlang found it hard to look away. Tu blinks at him, and Wenlang smiles apologetically. "Sorry for getting mad at you earlier. It's just.."

"No," Tu shakes his head. "I am sorry. I didn't know..."

Wenlang sighs, the corner of his lips tilting for a split second. He reaches to ruffle Tu's hair. "Alright. It's been a long day. You should rest, Mr. Gao. Goodnight."

Tu doesn't shy away from the touch, but nods. "You too. Goodnight, Mr. Shen."

After showering, Tu puts on the clothes Wenlang had given him, and smiles involuntarily when he realised it smelled of iris- Wenlang's pheromones, and it smelt really good. His heart races at the thought, and he gently slaps his face.

"What am I thinking?"

Wenlang was in his bed, staring at the ceiling as sleep wouldn't come to him easily. He felt unexplainably restless since Tu had hugged him in the kitchen, and Tu's pheromones- the sage- was the most alluring scent Wenlang had ever smelt. He shakes his head when his thoughts begin to wander. Especially to how Tu had felt against him.

"What am I thinking?"

Unbeknownst to them both, Stage one of finding a mate for Wenlang's had already begun.

Chapter Text

The next morning, Gao Tu wakes up as early as possible and all but runs away to his house. He slips a note under Wenlang's door explaining he was leaving lest the male looked for him.

Ever since he'd woken up in the Shen household, he felt the weight of what he had done, and begun to regret it. 

When he reaches home, he finds Xiaoshuai munching on some cereal and reading a book on the side. The male looks at him, does a double take, and points an accusatory finger at him. "You! Where were you last night?"

Tu freezes in the doorway, and looks at Xiaoshuai like a deer caught in the headlights. "I- I was staying over at a friend's place. I sent you a text, didn't I?" He says, his voice shaking under the scrutinising gaze of Xiaoshuai. The younger gets up from his seat, walks towards Tu and clamps his hands on Tu's shoulder, and leans into his neck. Tu squeaks in surprise. "What-"

Xiaoshuai takes a sniff, and immediately, his frown deepened. The way he looked at Tu afterward made him feel like he'd disappointed a parent, even though Xiaoshuai was the younger one.

Though, he could be quite a dad sometimes.

"I can smell an Alpha on you," Xiaoshuai furrows his eyebrows. "Ge, are you seeing someone?"

Tu blinks at Xiaoshuai and shakes his head. "What?! No. Not at all."

"You don't have any Alpha friends as far as I am aware," Xiaoshuai looks at him square in the eye, gaze searching. "You didn't exactly tell me who you were with either, when you usually do that. This is very odd behaviour for you."

"You are misunderstanding," Tu says, shaking his head. But fate decided to play a joke on Tu that day, and Xiaoshuai's phone rings. The younger retrieves it from his pocket, and frowns at the caller ID. "Hello?"

Whatever it was that he heard on the other side- his eyes widen, and he gives Tu a questioning look before taking the phone off his ear and puts it on loudspeaker. Tu was curious too, but then the person on the other side speaks. His heart drops.

"Hello? Is Gao Tu with you?" The voice of Shen Wenlang floats through the speaker. Tu blinks at Xiaoshuai, who sighs. "Why?"

"He left his notebook here," Wenlang replies in a matter of fact tone. Tu grabs the phone from Xiaoshuai and scrambles to reply. "Mr. Shen! It's me. I'm sorry, I'll come and get it soon!"

"Huh- oh, okay," Wenlang says. "You can come get it from my office today morning. I'll send the address, and inform the receptionist. See you."

"Sounds good, bye!" Tu ends the call, and looks at Xiaoshuai, who was still in a lot of disbelief. He looked so genuinely shocked that Tu wanted to dig a hole and hide in there forever, embarrassed.

After a few seconds of tense silence, the male finds his voice. "What- What the fuck? You.... spent the night with him?!?!?!?!?!"

Tu's face warms at the choice of wording. "Don't say it like that!"

"Then, what am I supposed to think?!" Xiaoshuai questions. "You- what?" He falls onto the couch, shocked. "You've known him for two days, and you already went over to his house. Wait- YOU ARE DATING HIM NOW?"

Tu shakes his hands, quickly trying to clarify what had actually happened. "No! Let me explain! He just asked me to come and pretend to be his boyfriend for dinner with his relatives. Because it was late, I stayed over. In a different room. We didn't do anything, I promise!"

However, Xiaoshuai didn't look too convinced. "But you smell like him.... Wait! He tried to ask me by threatening me, and when that didn't work, he decided to go after you?! That sneaky bastard! Did he try anything funny? Did he do anything to you-"

"No! Nothing happened! I just borrowed his clothes to sleep in- so- so I must smell like him!" Tu explains, but the younger's reaction made him worry. Xiaoshuai cracks his knuckles. Tu's fear of Xiaoshuai's wrath was mistakenly interpreted by the younger as Wenlang doing something and since Tu wasn't the type to be bold, Xiaoshuai knew he wouldn't speak up even if he did. It was one of the reasons why he was protective of Tu. "I will kill him."

"Shuai-"

Xiaoshuai wasn't listening to any of Tu's explanations, and had insisted on coming along when Tu had to go to the Shen Group HQ to get his notebook. Tu had tried to say no, but the younger probably felt responsible and protective of him. Tu wouldn't have come in contact with Wenlang if it were not for Xiaoshuai, after all. So reluctantly, he'd agreed for the younger to tag along with him.

"We are here to see Mr. Shen," Xiaoshuai tells the receptionist. The beta looks at him and bows politely. "Do you have an appointment, Sir?"

Xiaoshuai looks at Tu and then at the receptionist. "Please tell him Gao Tu has come to visit."

The receptionist perks up and nods immediately. "Ah yes. He was expecting you. Please take a seat, CEO Shen will be with you shortly."

Wenlang shows up in less than five minutes, looking serious in his all black suit, the pastel orange notebook in his hand out of place. His gaze was drawn to Tu immediately, and he greets the male with a small smile, which fell off his face as soon as he noticed Xiaoshuai. "Mr. Gao, you didn't tell me you were bringing Mr. Jiang."

"Why, are you not happy to see me, Mr. Shen?" Xiaoshuai asks in a sarcastic tone, folding his arms over his chest. "Now tell me, why are you bothering my friend?!"

"Bothering?" Wenlang raises an eyebrow. "What are you talking about?"

"Why did you ask him to pretend to be your boyfriend? You threatened him as well, didn't you?" Xiaoshuai frowns at the alpha. "Abusing your power, it's not very cool!"

"What the-" Wenlang frowns. "I didn't threaten him! I asked him and he agreed! Mr. Gao, didn't you tell him what-"

"I know about men like you. You are wolves!" Xiaoshuai cuts him off dramatically, shaking his head. "I know what goes on in that mind of yours! Don't pretend to be innocent, I know what kind of person you are!"

"First of all, we have wolf traits in us, so technically all of us are partially wolves," Wenlang says in a matter of fact tone, and rolls his eyes. "I'm not even going to argue with you on that other thing you said, because it's factually incorrect."

"Hah! Look at him! He's so cocky. He also has that certain look in his eyes," Xiaoshuai says, covering up Tu by pulling his overshirt over his chest to Wenlang's utter disbelief. "Mr. Jiang, you are going too far, don't you think?"

"He didn't touch you or try anything funny did he?" Xiaoshuai asks Tu, who was embarrassed beyond belief at this point. Wenlang scoffs, flabbergasted. "I would never-" He pauses, furious, "If anything, it was your friend who touched me! He hugged me!"

"What?" Xiaoshuai looks at Tu, who had given up on explaining. The younger turns his attention back to Wenlang. "You must have done something to make him do it. I don't trust you!"

"You know that I can sue you for defamation, right?" Wenlang questions, done with the antics of the doctor. He really dodged a bullet. How on earth did his mother think of pairing him up with such a person? 

"Go ahead! Try me!" Xiaoshuai pushes his sleeves above his elbows, getting ready to square up. Wenlang blinks at him, confused and slightly concerned. Was this Omega really about to fight an S-Class Alpha like Wenlang?! He must be out of his damn mind!

Tu holds Xiaoshuai back. "Shuai, calm down-"

Xiaoshuai looks at his hands- and does a double take at the bandaid on Tu's finger. "What's this? Why do you have a bandaid on your finger?!"

"I got hurt when washing the dishes. I told you what happened already. He asked me and I agreed. He didn't threaten me. Nothing happened! He didn't hurt me! I promise!" Tu explains again, eyes flickering to Wenlang apologetically.

"What about the bit you told me where he said he'll snitch to my family if you didn't agree?" Xiaoshuai questions, and furrows his eyebrows when looking at Wenlang. "If you are really an Alpha, go ahead Mr. Shen. Go and tell my family! Let's see how Alpha you really are!"

Wenlang makes a face, cursing under his breath. "You brat! How dare you. I'll tell-"

"Guys, please stop fighting," Tu steps in between them and pleads. 

Tu grabs Xiaoshuai's shoulder. "See, you've met him, I've got my notebook. I won't see him anymore, and he won't bother me too. Isn't that right, Mr. Shen?" He turns and looks at Wenlang pleadingly, using his eyes to communicate to him to go along. Wenlang opens his mouth to argue, but settles for an exhale and nods. "....Yes. It's a one time thing."

Xiaoshuai calms down a little, but still glares at Wenlang. "If I see you near him again, I will personally make sure you regret it."

It didn't come off as threatening at all, but Wenlang nods. He raises his hands in surrender. "Yeah yeah. Of course."

Xiaoshuai then grabs the notebook from Wenlang's hand, and then drags Tu outside with one last warning directed at the Alpha. "Don't ever talk to my friend again!"

Wenlang watches them go, and when he sees Tu mouth an apology at him, looking adorably embarrassed.

He couldn't help but smile.

Once outside, Tu sulks at Xiaoshuai, who looked slightly sheepish. "Ge, are you mad at me?"

"I'm not! It's just-" Tu shakes his head. "He's a CEO, what if we get into trouble because of what you said?"

"It's all on me. I'll take responsibility. I promise!" Xiaoshuai lifts his hand up. "I just needed to threaten him. He does give off weird vibes."

"Hey, that's kinda mean... I....I don't see it?" Tu mutters, recalling how the Alpha had been to him the previous night. Xiaoshuai notes his expression, and his mouth falls open. "Wait. What's with that look?!"

Tu blinks at him innocently and Xiaoshuai laughs in disbelief. "Oh my God. You like him."

"Wha- what?! That's ridiculous. Why? I mean- what made you think that? How-" Tu stammers, scrambling to refute the ridiculous words of his roommate. "You're crazy. Why would you say that?"

Indeed, what was the younger saying? Him, liking Wenlang? Impossible.

"I mean, you agreed to go on a fake date with him after two days of knowing him as a person, you even defended him now, you have that look in your eyes when you talk about him and- wait! He said you hugged him. What's up with that??" Xiaoshuai points an accusing finger at the older. "Your honour, there is a case to be made here!"

"There is no case, your honour!" Tu replies, slightly frustrated. "I agreed because I felt bad okay? We did play him after all. Also, I do not have a look in my eyes, whatever that means. What are you on about-"

"What about the hug then?" Xiaoshuai asks, his lips shaking as he tried to hold back a teasing smile. The younger was now having a lot of fun with this, somehow forgetting the fact he was upset at Wenlang and Tu just a while ago. Tu stutters, face warming at the memory. "It was his mom! We were arguing and I panicked, so I hugged him! It's nothing else!"

Xiaoshuai looks at him, speechless for a few seconds, and then wheezes out a laugh. "Your ears are red. Oh my God. Something is really going on here. This is crazy."

"Nothing is going on!" Tu mumbles defeatedly, and sulks again. Xiaoshuai stops teasing him and side hugs him, laughing. "Okay, okay, I'm sorry."

He ruffles Tu's hair. "I'm just worried about you, Ge. Besides, I am the reason behind this mess. I feel guilty. You had to pretend to be some guy's boyfriend and meet his family! That's too much."

Tu sighs and rubs his arm. "You don't have to feel like that. You didn't force me, and I agreed. It's fine. I got free dinner out of it."

Xiaoshuai didn't look too convinced. "Still. I'm sorry..."

"Okay, how about this. Instead of feeling sorry for me, get me some dessert later. Hope you remember our deal to feed me dessert from Chengyu's shop?" Tu says, attempting to cheer up the younger. Xiaoshuai nods enthusiastically. "Oh yes. He said he'll stop by later. Oh and-"

The younger starts yapping about his boyfriend and Tu listens with a small smile on his face. 

Once, the doctor had been indifferent to love. He had been busy dealing with his own demons, and one day, Chengyu had walked into his life. The two had a sweet relationship- and Chengyu had been so patient in the way he'd courted Xiaoshuai. 

Sometimes, Tu felt jealous seeing them. He was fine being single, but he too wondered how it would be like to have someone. 

Someone who loved him, cherished him and showered him affection like Chengyu did to Xiaoshuai. 

But then, he knew that his time would come one day. Love was worth the wait, and he couldn't wait to shower the person who was for him with love too. To share the simple joys of life, to go on dates... and start a family.

His mind was starts to go elsewhere- more specifically to Shen Wenlang. A specific memory comes up from the previous night.

"I know you haven't been dating very long, but you should start thinking about marrying soon! You two look good together, your babies will look so beautiful!" Wenlang's aunt had said. 

Tu finds his cheeks warming, and he physically shakes his head to get rid of the thoughts. It was a one time thing- and he'd done it to protect his friend. A little bit for the plot too.

I should stop thinking about him.

Tu still finds himself daydreaming when he was at work, his mind wandering to the Alpha CEO, and more specifically how he'd looked that morning in that black suit.

If he was really being honest with himself, Wenlang was kind of Tu's type.

Wait. Why am I thinking that? 

Tu shakes his head for the nth time, physically trying to get rid of the thoughts. He had been single for a long time, and Wenlang was quite an attractive man, so that's probably why Tu felt this way. It was mere attraction.

Yes that's right. That's exactly why. No other reason.

He leans back in his chair, and sees Wenlang standing near the door of his office. Tu rubs his eyes, but Wenlang was still there, a small yet amused smile on his face.

Wow. He must really be losing his mind if he was beginning to imagine the Alpha now. It was time to go out for a walk and touch grass. 

"Mr. Tu, do you have something in your eyes?" Wenlang asks him, and Tu blinks, amazed. 

Wow, he's talking even. My imagination is pretty good.

Wait.

"You're real?" He questions, to which Wenlang scoffs, amused. "No I'm not."

The Omega tilts his head, getting confused. Wenlang watches him, a small smile on his face, and shakes his head. "Of course I am real, Mr. Gao. Is this how you greet your customers?"

What?!

Tu stands up abruptly upon hearing that, his face warming immediately in embarrassment. How many times was he going to embarrass himself in front of this man?!

"I'm sorry! No. Uhm. I thought you were- never mind," Tu shakes his head, stopping himself from oversharing. "What are you doing here, Mr. Shen?"

Wenlang crosses his arms and looks at him with a raised eyebrow. "I thought you wanted to help me find a partner?"

Tu blinks at him and nods. "Oh? I thought you won't come..."

"Why wouldn't I?" Wenlang questions, walking inside and taking a seat opposite Tu. "Didn't you say you had a success rate of 99%? Had to come check how that is."

"That's right," Tu scratches his neck. If Xiaoshuai found out about this, he wouldn't be happy. Tu had promised him earlier to stay away from Wenlang and to tell him if the CEO bothered him.

But it was not a problem now, as Xiaoshuai wasn't there, meaning he didn't know and therefore, it was okay. Besides, Tu was simply helping Wenlang as a part of his job. 

Nothing else was going on here.

"Here," Tu pulls up a form on his iPad and gives it to Wenlang. "Could you please fill this up? We would need this information to register you and then, we'll start looking for someone for you. This is a membership kind of service, so based on the package you choose and the services you need, you will be charged accordingly."

Tu walks around and leans in, pointing at the information to explain the prices to the Alpha. This close, he could smell the iris scent of Wenlang, and for a second, he is distracted. "Uhm. So, if y-you just want profiles, it'll be-"

"I'll take the platinum package. The one which offers everything," Wenlang says, turning to look at him.

Their eyes met, and as corny as it may be, to Tu, the world slowed down for a second. 

Up so close- Wenlang was even more stunning, and his sharp features looked softer. The scent of the iris was sweet, and so enticing that Tu forgets to breathe. Without realising, his own pheromones twist and turn to accommodate the iris- welcoming. 

But suddenly, Tu remembers where he was, and reminds himself to move away and put some professional distance between them. Wenlang was his client now. 

"O-Okay. I'll make a note of that," He ticks the package and gives the stylus to Wenlang, who turns his attention back to the device. "Do you want tea, Mr. Shen?

"White tea with one sugar. No milk. I want it just slightly hot," Wenlang replies absently, focused on answering the questions. He sounded every bit the CEO he was, and Tu nods before walking over to the small side room where he had tea and small snacks for the clients, stealing glances at Wenlang as he begins to prepare it.

Wenlang answers the questions in silence, with an occasion sarcastic huff.

"When did you last laugh?" Wenlang read out loud. "How is this relevant?"

Tu flashes a smile at him. "It's our secret. I can't tell you."

Wenlang shakes his head, a small smile on his face. "Fine, keep your secrets, Mr. Gao."

Tu recalled the events of that morning, and bites his lip, wondering how he could properly apologise. Wenlang looks up at him in that moment. "You're gonna break the cup with how hard you are stirring."

The Omega pauses what he was doing, feeling embarrassed again. (How many times has it been already?) 

"I just wanted to apologise for today morning," Tu starts, and Wenlang lets out an amused breath, a small smile on his face. "No need to apologise. It was..... entertaining."

Tu smiles sheepishly. "Oh. Uhm. Here you go," He gives the tea to the CEO, who accepts it with a small thanks. Their fingers brush and Tu's heart leaps in his chest.

"In the Bee movie, who do you think was right? Barry Benson or Ken?" Wenlang snickers. "What even. Do you believe in heaven or hell? How does this even work?"

"I have a 99% success rate, Mr. Shen. Trust me, these questions help," Tu giggles, used to clients being surprised by the questions. His agency used a special way to pair people indeed. Wenlang takes a sip of the tea and looks at Tu, his gaze settling on a spot. "We'll see how true that is."

Then, he pauses and gestures at Tu to come closer. Tu steps closer reluctantly, and stands still as Wenlang suddenly gets up and leans into his personal space. Tu's heart rate picks up. "What-"

"There's a lash on your cheek," Wenlang says, his voice low. When the Alpha's fingers come in contact with Tu's cheek, it felt like he was shocked by electricity.

Wenlang takes the lash, and then, his eyes flicker to Tu's lips, where it stays for longer than necessary. Tu was afraid his heart was going to jump out of his chest with how fast it was beating at that moment.

What- what's this feeling?

"Tu, have you seen- OH MY!" Another person's voice interrupts them, and Tu jumps, startled. He nearly looses his balance, but Wenlang catches his arm, stabilising him. "Careful."

Tu sheepishly thanks him and turns to the other person- his colleague Ran, who was trying and failing to hold back a huge smile on her face. Her eyes flickered between Tu and Wenlang, with a knowing expression of her face. "Tu, I didn't know you had a boyfriend?"

What the hell.

"What- no?" Tu replies hurriedly, but Ran giggles. "Sorry, I'll leave you now. Talk to you later!" She pauses and looks at them one last time. "You both look good together!"

"Hey! Wait!" Tu closes his eyes in defeat as Ran exits quickly. 

For a moment, it's silent. It's broken by Wenlang, who clears his throat and lets out an amused chuckle. "Are you not going to go after her and clear that up?"

Tu looks at him, and nods sheepishly. "Yes I will-"

"Ohhh," Wenlang's tone is sarcastic, his gaze full of mirth as he continued. "Orrrr.... you don't mind it."

Tu's face warms at the accusation, and he shakes his head, vehemently denying the claims. "What?! No. I don't-"

Wenlang laughs. "Hey, sorry. I was kidding. Your expressions are c- funny. Funny."

Tu pouts and steps away, choosing to change the topic, quickly pulling out his phone to call Ran. "Mr. Shen, have you finished filling up the form?"

Wenlang takes a second to reply, his gaze suddenly a little intense. "Yes."

Tu nods, and takes the iPad, choosing to focus on the form as his heart was beating too fast- rattled by Wenlang's gaze, and the sweet, sweet scent of iris seemingly surrounding him. The call to Ran goes dead without her picking it up- but he barely notices it.

Suddenly, the door bursts open, and a group of people file in along with Ran. Tu, startled, grabs Wenlang's arm without thinking.

"Oh my!!!! Look at them, they are cute!" A college squeals, and Tu blinks, mortified as Ran smiles. "That's his boyfriend! Tu, aren't you going to introduce him to us?"

Tu freezes in his spot- the spotlight being on him making him incredibly anxious.

Coupled with the fact that he was the only one without a partner in his agency- he was quite literally the talk of the office most days. People weren't unkind, but sometimes, Tu would feel sad after hearing them ask him about his love life- or the lack thereof. Even though he was quite literally happy to be single and wait for the right person, it was moments like this where he wished he wasn't, so that he wouldn't be put under the spotlight. Like he was someone who lacked something.

He didn't. He had good friends, a stable job, and was doing well for himself overall. 

Yet- he still freezes in place. 

Wenlang turns to look at him, furrowing his eyebrows when he noticed that subconsciously, Tu's grip on his arm was tightening. 

"I was going to set you up with my friend!" Another beta says, shaking her head. "But it's good you have someone now! We were worried for you as you were getting older and you didn't have someone yet."

The words were not spoken with malice. If anything, they were quite kind, and Tu knew the colleague well enough to know she doted on him like a little brother.

But still-

Why did they have to make him feel like being single was a bad thing?

"My name is Shen Wenlang," Wenlang suddenly says, and Tu turns to look at him, shocked. Wenlang turns slightly, smiles at Tu, and ruffles his hair. "Nice to meet you. I'm his boyfriend."

What?!

The group who had gathered inside squeal and begin to tease Tu, who could only stare at Wenlang speechlessly.

"We were going to go out for an early dinner. Mr. Shen, you should come too!" Ran suggests enthusiastically, while Tu was still processing what the hell just happened. 

Wenlang turns his attention to the group. "Sorry, we'll be with you in a little while. I just want to talk to my boyfriend first."

"Oh yes, of course!" As if on cue, everyone files out, smiling teasingly at the couple, while Tu was left stunned. Once everyone was gone, he finds his words. "Mr. Shen-"

"Your welcome," Wenlang says, his tone a little cheeky. He looks down at the way Tu was still holding his hands, and when Tu notices, he immediately lets go. "Sorry-"

Wenlang's expression softens, and he looked concerned. "Are you okay?" 

Tu avoids his gaze and nods. "Yes, I just- it's-"

"Hey, breathe," Wenlang says, leaning down to meet Tu eye level, not letting him look away. Tu's heart thunders at the lack of space between them, slightly overwhelmed by the scent of iris. Wenlang ruffles his hair. He was doing this quite often, and Tu hated how comforting it was. "Do they do that to you often? Say those kinds of things?"

Tu slowly shakes his head. "No.. uhm. Sometimes. Not often."

Wenlang frowns. "Hmmm. If you are uncomfortable, you should tell them to stop. There's nothing wrong with being single, and it's not too late for you. Even though I don't believe in love and those things..." He pauses, eyes searching Tu's, expression softening even more. ".. I still believe there's a time for everything."

The Alpha looks away, clearing his throat. "So. Don't listen to them. You're good enough as you are now."

It was the sweetest thing someone had ever said to Gao Tu recently. His vision blurs, and he looks away, rapidly blinking before Wenlang could notice.

But the Alpha notices anyway, and he gently grabs Tu's wrist, his tone becoming even more gentle. "Hey, did I say something wrong? I'm sorry-"

Tu quickly looks at him and shakes his head, avoiding his gaze even more. "No! No. You... You said the right thing. Thank you. I- I'm okay. Really."

Wenlang's expression of concern stays, but he gently lets go of Tu, who flashes him a small smile to ease his worries.

At that moment, Tu realises that Wenlang wasn't as scary as he sometimes seemed. He was quite surprisingly kind and understanding.

The door opens again. It seemed like suddenly no one remembered to knock that day. As if on cue, Wenlang puts an arm around Tu, and together, they turn to look at the visitor.

"Tu...." Ran peeks inside, looking at the two with a teasing smile. "I really hate to interrupt you love birds, but Mr. Shen, you should definitely come with us too. There's a lot we need to ask you and Tu!"

Wenlang looks at Tu. "Uhm. I- I can come if my boyfriend agrees."

He was throwing Tu under the bus, and for a second the Omega considers saying no, but he knew his teammates would pester him anyway. And since Wenlang was the one who said he was Tu's boyfriend, it was only logical for them to face the questions together.

So, he looks at Wenlang, and smiles again. "I'm okay with it."

Wenlang seemed a little taken aback, and he takes a second to reply. "... Sure then. Why not?"

Ran smiles excitedly. "Oh my! Okay, we'll be leaving now, see you soon!"

Then, she runs outside. Wenlang lets go of Tu, and then squints at him suspiciously. "Are you really okay with this?"

Tu turns to face Wenlang, folding his arms over his chest. "Aren't you the one who said you're my boyfriend? If I go alone, they'll ask me so many questions. You should come with me, Mr. Shen."

Wenlang doesn't respond for a second- and Tu worries he may have crossed a line, but the man simply shakes his head, the corners of his lips tilting up before he put on a nonchalant expression. "If you really insist. I can come." Then, he leans closer. "But don't forget, that means you would owe me."

Tu gapes at him, and then pouts, annoyed. "You started this! Besides, did you forget you are here as a client-" His eyes widen. "Mr.Shen, what have you done? You are here as a client! Yet you- oh my goodness." He rubs his fingers on his forehead, now stressed. At that moment, when Wenlang had stood up for him, he was grateful, but now, this lie would have consequences.

Wenlang looks at the iPad and back at Tu. It seemed like he genuinely did forget. 

"Oh God. I should clear this up before it goes too far. Technically, we don't share information about our clients with each other, but when we find you a partner, everyone will know. What will we do then?" Tu runs a hand through his hair, and starts biting his finger anxiously. Now, he realised the practicality of what Wenlang had done- it could not end well.

"I- I'm sorry," Wenlang replies sheepishly, scratching his neck. "I didn't like the way they were talking to you, so I did that without thinking."

Tu stops biting his finger looks at the Alpha, who seemed genuinely sorry. His heart fluttered at the sincerity of his words. The Alpha thinks for a few seconds and perks up. "We don't have to continue with the matchmaking-"

"No!" Tu says quickly, and Wenlang blinks at him. Wenlang was going to choose the platinum package, and he was too valuable of a client for Tu to drop the service. "No, Mr. Shen. I promised to help. We- We can think of something else later."

"Like what?" Wenlang questions. Tu shrugs. "Like... I can tell them I broke up with you."

"I don't want to be dumped, though!" Wenlang replied quickly. "It should be me breaking up with you! I am a CEO, that will damage my reputation!"

Tu gapes at that, offended. "Your reputation? Then what about mine?!"

"You won't be affected. I am pretty sure that someone else will come to steal you away. No one is coming to steal me away," Wenlang explains, a small frown on his face even as he spoke. Tu chuckles in disbelief. "What does that even mean? No one is coming to steal me away too!"

"Don't be too humble. I am here because I need help with finding a mate, but you are willing to wait. You aren't in a rush, so that means you must have a lot of potential mates around," The CEO theorizes seriously.

Tu folds his arms over his chest. "Mr. Shen, where did you get that idea from?!"

"I mean, you are cute," Wenlang says, and his eyes widen immediately. His words were honest and sincere, even though it seemed like they were spoken without thought. Tu, despite himself, chuckles, and his heart warmed at the fact that Wenlang thought he was cute. 

"I am literally in the same boat as you, what do you mean," Tu says, shaking his head. "The only difference is that you are being pressured to find someone by your parents. I get asked about it every other day by my colleagues."

"Oh, my bad," Wenlang says, and scratches his neck. "My point is- I don't wanna be broken up with still."

"I don't want to be broken up with either," Tu replies firmly. 

Wenlang meets his eyes, and after a second, they burst out laughing. What a ridiculous situation they were in.

At first, it was Tu pretending to be Xiaoshuai. Then, him and Wenlang pretending to be a couple for the latter's parents. Now, they had been pushed back into the role again by Tu's colleagues.

"I guess we aren't breaking up, then," Wenlang says, amused. Tu shakes his head and chuckles. "I guess so."

"But on a serious note, what do we do?" The Alpha questions. "I- I don't wanna cause you problems at your work."

Tu exhales and perks up when he gets an idea. "I just need to be careful about how I arrange clients for you. After a few weeks, we can just say it ended mutually. That we broke up because we wanted different things. Then, when I find you a partner, it won't look suspicious."

When Wenlang found a partner. Tu felt uncomfortable with saying it, for some reason. The atmosphere in the room turned into something else- something Tu didn't understand.

Wenlang nods slowly, his gaze fixed on Tu. "You are so confident you'll find someone for me?"

Tu forces a smile. "Of course. I- I am good at my job. Trust me, Mr. Shen. I have never made a mistake."

Wenlang takes a while to reply, eyes searching Tu's confused ones. "Okay then."

Tu turns away to gather his belongings, and places a hand over his heart. What was wrong with him?

"Shall we go?" Wenlang questions, interrupting his thoughts. Tu turns to him, and nods repeatedly, filing away his emotions for later.

"Okay."

During the dinner with his colleagues, Wenlang stays close to Tu, answering all the questions with a charming smile. 

"So, tell us, how did you two get together?" Ran asks, and Wenlang smiles easily, turning to look at Tu. His eyes held something- Tu didn't know what it was yet, but it gave him butterflies. He smiles back at Wenlang.

"He's... cute," Wenlang says. The answer was so natural and sincere that Tu wanted to applaud Wenlang for his acting. Where was this man's oscar nomination?

He was definitely not affected by it.

"I think... It might have been love at first sight for me," Wenlang continues. "The day I saw him, I knew he was special."

Tu, who's heart was already racing, chokes on his drink, feeling his cheeks warm. His colleagues squeal and tease him, chorusing remarks together. Wenlang simply laughs beside him. He looked unaffected- like this was normal for him.

He didn't have to go this far, yet here Wenlang was, standing up for him first, and now, doing this.

How strange was their relationship- they didn't even know each other well enough to be considered acquaintances, but Tu already felt like he'd known the man for longer.

He sits beside Wenlang, silently watching him interact with his colleagues, and thinks back to their first meeting, where they'd talked about random things. About the game, about a random drama, about their hobbies, and about marriage. Then, he'd not really been acting, as Wenlang was genuinely fun to talk to.

Now, when Wenlang smiles at him after saying something, they were acting. They'd discussed it beforehand. This was a temporary thing that they would do only for a few weeks. 

But... What was this strange feeling in his chest?

Wenlang meets him at a cafe a few days later.

Tu had used the time apart to find potential matches for Wenlang. 

He'd also spent some time thinking.

"Mr. Shen," Tu smiles at the man, who greeted him with a soft smile. His gaze was a little intense, almost like he was trying to read something in Tu's eyes. 

Tu clears his throat. "I found some potential partners for you. Shall we go through them?"

Wenlang takes a second to bring his attention back to the photos. "Sure. Couldn't we have done this through email?"

"Oh. I'm sorry. We do these things in person because we need to discuss other things," Tu explains, and Wenlang nods, looking through the pictures, clearly disinterested. Tu bites his lips, anxious. Wenlang was definitely a difficult client to please, but he really hoped that they would find someone for the man. 

Not just to maintain his streak of success stories, but because he felt like Wenlang deserved it.

"Why don't you choose one?" Wenlang says instead, and looks at Tu. His gaze was no longer indifferent.

Tu nods, and then pulls out someone who he'd thought stood out when he was going through the profiles the last few days. "This is Sheng Shaoyou. He's a CEO, an S-Class Alpha like you too, and he's a 97% match in terms of the profiles."

Wenlang simply glances at Shaoyou's picture and hums. "Not bad. Why the 97%?"

"It's based on interests. It seems like he's not fond of outdoor sport, amongst some minor things," Tu explains. "He said no for the 'Did you laugh recently?' question too."

Wenlang scoffs. "Sure. Though, your model is a little sketchy."

"Mr. Shen, you can trust us! We have high ratings!" Tu replies, slightly defensive. Wenlang chuckles. "Sure. Why not."

Tu shoots him a polite smile and takes his iPad to note this down, and starts to draft an email to Shaoyou. "If he agrees, we'll arrange for a date as soon as possible."

Wenlang hums, and Tu feels his gaze from his peripheral vision. It looked like he wanted to say something, but was holding back. Tu's grip on his stylus tightens. 

It was time to say what he'd thought about. 

"I was thinking... we should break up in two weeks. It's realistic, and my colleagues think we've been together for a while, so it won't be weird," He says, feeling strange even as the words left his mouth. 

We should break up.

"When I said break up I mean-" Tu hurries to explain, but Wenlang cuts him off. "I know what you mean, Mr. Gao."

Silence settles between them- and it's awkward. Tu wanted to say something, but he didn't really have anything to say. So, he turns to the iPad to continue with the email, while Wenlang drank tea.

Suddenly- Tu feels Wenlang freeze next to him. His pheremones, which were usually very controlled, spiked, and it made Tu jolt in surprise. He turns to Wenlang, who was gripping the tea cup, his expression dark with something akin to anger as he stared at something- or more specifically, someone. Tu follows his line of sight, and frowns when he notices that Wenlang was looking at a girl, seemingly an Omega. And she was looking back at Wenlang too.

Then, they start walking towards the two of them. Tu watches as the Omega stops right as she reached their table, and looks at Tu with a frown. "Oh Wenlang," she says, turning to look at the man with an annoyed smirk. "Good to see you. Seems like you have a boyfriend?"

Wenlang was breathing heavily, his eyes expressing contained fury. Tu immediately pieces it together. This was Wenlang's ex. The one who'd cheated on him.

Without thinking much, he puts a hand on Wenlang's and smiles at the girl as politely as he could. "Hi. Can I help you?"

The Omega ignores him, focused on Wenlang. "Good to see you have moved on. He's cute. Congratulations."

Wenlang finally responds with a scoff. "Seems like you are still as shameless as ever. Don't you know you can't just come and talk to strangers?"

"You-" The Omega opens her mouth to say something, and Tu beats her to it. The smile on his face stays, but his tone turns slightly icy. "I'm sorry. If you need anything, you should check with the waiter. We're busy here."

"What makes you think you have the right to speak to me that way? Do you know who I am?!" The Omega snaps, frowning. 

Tu, feeling bold, slides his hand around Wenlang's and intertwines their fingers together. "I'm his boyfriend, so who ever you are is not important to me." 

He stands up, gathering his stuffs with his other hand while Wenlang looked at him, surprised. Their hands were still intertwined. 

"Wenlang, you've changed, huh? Letting the Omega speak for you. When we were together you-"

"He's not any Omega. He's my boyfriend. So if you will kindly get the fuck out of my face, that would be great," Wenlang replies, looking at Tu, who's hold on his hand tightens. "Tu, let's go somewhere else."

It was the first time Wenlang had addressed him in the first name basis, and Tu smiles at the thought. He follows Wenlang as the male drags them outside, thinking how large Wenlang's hands were against his. 

Once outside, Wenlang turns to face him, his expression stormy. He looked more affected now, and Tu gets closer, concerned. "Mr. Shen, are you-"

"Thank you," Wenlang says sincerely. Tu shakes his head. "Don't mention it."

"You probably know who that is," Wenlang smiles, self depreciatingly. "What a pathetic loser."

Tu wasn't sure whether Wenlang was talking about his ex or himself. 

"She's a loser. But look at you, you're a CEO, you're doing well, better without her," Tu says. He didn't know why he felt the need to reassure Wenlang, but the way the storm in Wenlang's eyes slowly disappeared made him feel like he made the right decision. 

He continues, smiling at Wenlang. "And we're going to find you somebody who is way better than she ever was. Someone who is great for you! I promise."

"Yeah," Wenlang says, slightly breathless. "Yeah, we will."

The moment stays- dragging for a few seconds, accompanied by the gentle breeze outside, the sound of a bird chirping, and the muted conversation of people passing by on the street. 

Tu notices their linked hands, and slowly lets go. Wenlang chuckles awkwardly, and his eyes- they were rich with something that Tu didn't understand. But something about it being directed to Tu made goosebumps rise up his skin.

He looks away, all the boldness from earlier leave his body. "Al-Alright. I'm going to leave now. I'll call you regarding the date later?"

They'd paid already, thankfully, so he didn't have to think about it. Besides, Tu did have places to be later.

Wenlang nods, and watches Tu as he walks away.

When Tu turns to look, Wenlang was still there, a smile on his face as he looked at Tu.

Tu turns away, facing the front. He blows out a breath, forcing his racing heart to calm down.

He looked down at his hand, remembering the feeling of Wenlang's. How right it felt.

Then, he shakes his head.

Seeing how hurt Wenlang looked after seeing his ex, Tu felt a more stronger need to find the man a mate.

He wanted to see Wenlang smile and be happy.

Wenlang was losing his mind.

He was more distracted at work, zoned out more often, daydreaming about a certain someone that seemed to be intent on staying in his mind, rent-free.

In this economy, he couldn't afford to have that happening, but he also does nothing to control the thoughts.

Maybe, because he already had an idea as to why he was behaving that way.

But after getting his heart broken into pieces, by the one he'd loved once, he was not ready to step into something else again.

So, he puts on a casual outfit, makes himself look presentable, and goes on a date that Gao Tu had arranged for him with Sheng Shaoyou.

First impression, Shaoyou, despite being an Alpha, was strangely adorable. He had cat like manners, but Wenlang could see he was raised just like he was, to be prim and proper. Shaoyou spoke with confidence, just like how a CEO would.

It was enjoyable, but Wenlang could only see them being friends at most.

Shaoyou was cute, but he wasn't as cute as someone who liked lemon blueberry flavoured desserts. Shaoyou didn't enjoy philosophical topics, like someone Wenlang knew. He was polite, but wasn't as curious about him like someone else had been.

But most importantly, after they'd talked a little bit more, Wenlang felt like he already knew of this man. Like someone else had already talked about him. Even as he sat in the cafe, he could feel like someone was watching. 

He chalks it up to not finding any romantic interest in Shaoyou.

But there was one thing that was bothering him after the date, actually, even prior to the date, but now, it was intense.

Everything Shaoyou did, Wenlang had subconsciously compared to Gao Tu, who had also been plaguing his mind for the past few days, who smelled alluring, and made his wolf restless.

Wenlang was good at being in denial. 

After saying goodbye to Shaoyou, he finds himself going straight to the bar. He needed to drink. He needed to think about what the hell was going on with him recently.

He sits on the bar stool, and orders whiskey. After it arrives, he takes a sip, and all but stares at his own reflection in the drink.

Once, he used to come with his friends, get drunk as much as possible and they'd have fun. They'd party, drink till they blacked out, or play all kinds of ridiculous games.

He smiles at the thought, and takes another sip.

"Please, let me go-" A familiar voice catches his attention, and he turns to see none other than Gao Tu plastered against the wall, caged between the arms of a rogue looking Alpha.

Wenlang doesn't even think- his feet automatically carries him to the man, and he all but tears the Alpha and shoves him away, putting as much distance as possible between the man and Tu. 

The guy stands up, ready to pick a fight, but when he feels Wenlang's oppressive S-Class pheromones, he all but runs away.

Wenlang turns his attention to Tu, who was clearly very drunk. He frowns, steadying the man, who was leaning into the side. "Mr. Gao, how much did you have to drink? Are you alone?"

Tu blinks at him blearily. "Huh? Why do you look like Shen Wenlang?"

Wenlang lets out a breath, sarcastic as he speaks. "I'm his long lost twin."

"Ah. You're not as handsome as he is," Tu says, slurring slightly. Wenlang smirks, pulling Tu closer when he was falling to the side, unable to even stand properly. "You think he's handsome?"

Tu blinks, and chuckles. "Why, you don't agree?"

"I do," Wenlang says, looking around. "Did you come alone?"

Tu shakes his head. "My team. Dinner? We came for dinner. But everyone drank a lot. Not me though! That guy came to me and I-" Tu hiccups. 

Wenlang makes him sit on a chair, and then leans down to be face to face with him. "Okay. Let me look for them."

"No!" Tu grabs his hand. "They'll keep asking me about Shen Wenlang. But they don't know I'm tryna find a mate for him. It's so hard, you know??"

Wenlang tilts his head, curious. "Why is it hard?"

Tu blinks and shakes his head. "I can't tell you. You look like him."

"He's not that bad," Wenlang says, defensive, even though he was mostly endeared. 

Tu chuckles. "You have no idea. He can be so scary sometimes. But..." Tu suddenly surprises Wenlang by grabbing his face with both of his hands. "He looks very handsome when he smiles. He's so grumpy and serious otherwise. But when he smiles, it's nice to see. Can you smile for me too?"

Wenlang fakes a smile, and Tu shakes his head. "It's not the same. His looks better."

Even though it was drunk rambling, Tu sounded sincere. Wenlang chuckles. He looks around once again, and sees Tu's team. "Wait a second."

He goes to the table, and notices that everyone seemed very drunk, and he didn't want to leave Tu with them. So he grabs Ran, and tells her he was taking Tu home. She mumbles something back incoherently.

Wenlang returns to Tu, and puts the drunken man's arm around his shoulder. "I need your address. I'll drive you home."

Tu looks at him and shakes his head. "You're a stranger. Why would I give it to you?"

Wenlang sighs resignedly. He pulls out his phone and decides against calling Xiaoshuai as it was quite late. He makes a mental reminder to scold Tu regarding staying outside at night later, as it was dangerous. 

If he didn't intervene, who knows what the rogue Alpha could have done to Tu? He felt angry at the thought, and also protective over Tu, who was currently holding onto him tightly. 

He then decides to take Tu to his own apartment instead, as it was the safest option he could think of, unless he wanted to bother Xiaoshuai. 

The drive is silent, as Tu was busy falling asleep in the passenger seat. But Wenlang often had to stop him from banging his head on the window, and also had to listen to Tu's random rambling. 

"I wanted a cat, and Xiaoshuai said no because Chengyu is allergic. Like what? Chengyu doesn't even live with us. He likes his boyfriend too much. What about me? I came before him!" He complains, pouting. Wenlang chuckles. "Chengyu is his boyfriend though."

"Huh. Whatever. Atleast he's a good cook. He bakes a neat dessert. Yum," Tu smiles sleepily.

Then, they reach Wenlang's apartment, and Wenlang had to half carry Tu inside, as the male was falling asleep at every step. "Goodness. How much did you drink?"

"There was a competition," Tu says, blinking slowly. "I wanted to win against Peng."

Wenlang shakes his head, and holds Tu close while opening the door of his penthouse. Once inside, Tu pushes him inside, till Wenlang's back hit the wall, and buries his face in the Alpha's neck.

Wenlang freezes in place, his heart thundering in his chest. "What are you doing?"

"You smell so good," Tu says, and immediately releases Wenlang, putting space between them. Wenlang stands in his spot, his mind blank.

He's drunk and he's rambling. It's nothing.

Tu staggers again, and Wenlang grabs him before he could fall. They make it to the couch, where finally, Tu curls into a ball, and falls asleep.

Wenlang watches him for a few seconds, his breathing heavy. He gets a throw and covers Tu with it, grabbing pillows from the other couch to make the man comfortable. 

Tu smiles, and nuzzles into his pillow, and he looked the softest he'd ever looked to Wenlang, who felt an unexplainable urge to protect the man before him from everything.

He sits on the other couch, and watches Tu, things starting to make sense to him- why he'd compared Shaoyou to Tu, and why he couldn't stop thinking about the Omega.

He runs his hands through his hair, and falls back, cursing under his breath as realisation hit him like a ton of bricks, accompanied with a word he didn't want to acknowledge.

Fuck. I like him.