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Chapter Text

Some of Hua Yong’s attitudes had been ringing some alert alarms in Sheng Shaoyou’s head, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it. Maybe it was the frequency they had been meeting up lately? it felt like Hua Yong would appear in front of him at any moment, maybe he was waiting for him in the next corner? he wasn’t sure, but something felt odd. Despite the ringing bells he paid for his sister’s medical expenses, he truthfully wanted to help ease this young helpless and hardworking looking omega.

The next afternoon he had paid a visit to his dad at the hospital, no major changes, he left, consumed by the thoughts of helplessness. He stopped by the hospital’s payment area and decided to check up if he needed to cover any new expenses. After all, the queue wasn’t long; it was just a man standing in front of him, he took his phone out and checked his messages as he waited.

“Hi, this is the bill for bed 291. Could you please… delay the payment for me? I’ll pay it back as soon as I can” the first time he hears it, he thinks he’s imagining things, part of it sounds strangely familiar, he lowers his phone and tries paying attention to the conversation the person in front of him is having with the hospital personnel. 

“There’s no outstanding balance for bed 291. In fact, 600.000 yuan was already prepaid for the surgery and post-op care” and he definitively hadn’t heard wrong, it was that bed number, the very same Hua Yong had told him before…

“What? prepaid?” Was it a mistake by Hua Yong not properly remembering his sister’s bed number? But, what are the odds?

“Yes, you’re the family of the patient, right? your friend already covered it” slowly the woman is getting worked up

“My friend? Are you sure you're not mistaken?”

“Theres no mistake, he left quite an impression” she insisted, her voice did sound quite annoyed by this point  “He's tall handsome S-tier alpha, ah, it’s him!” The next thing he sees is the woman pointing at him and the man in front of him slowly turning to him, as soon their eyes meet, they widden, it can’t be…

“Mr. Sheng?” that asshole’s, Shen Wenlang, secretary is standing right in front him with a confused look on his face “Mr. Sheng did you..”

“Hold on, repeat the bed number” demands getting closer to the counter ignoring the secretary.

“Bed number 291” she repeats, Shaoyou’s mind races. It can’t be right? Maybe Hua Yong confused the numbers? Maybe he mixed them up? 

“What’s the patient's name?” he asks, louder than he intended to sound.

“Gao Qing” he hears the secretary back at him and looks at him “She is my sister” both of them are looking at each other deeply confused. How did this happen? he turns to the woman behind the counter and asks.

“Is it true?” she looks up at the system briefly and looks at him again.

“Indeed, patient in bed number 291 name is Gao Qing” He stumbles back and its catched by the secretary “Is… everything okay?” 

“Seems we had a bit of miscommunication, we will solve it right away. Thanks for your help” HS group secretary was fast on making up an excuse to the hospital personnel “Mr. Sheng, do you mind giving me a bit of your time?” he nods.

They walked in silence towards the cafeteria of the hospital, he sat at one of the most secluded tables and the secretary joined, placing a cup of tea on his side and leaving the other cup on his own side before sitting. 

“Secretary Gao, was it?” he says lifting his eyes from the cup, the man in front him smiles and nods “What is going on?” he asks, pinching the bridge of his nose “Are you related with secretary Hua?” Gao Tu blinks and tilts his head, shaking it lightly.

“Not at all. We are just colleagues” Shaoyou sighs, audibly “Mr. Sheng… might I ask why you paid for my sister's fees?” Shaoyou looks at the ceiling pondering what if these two secretaries were onto something trying to trick him? he lowered his gaze meeting Gao Tu’s eyes scrutinizing his face, he seemed surprised, like he had no idea, it was that or he was a really good actor.

“That Hua secretary said it was his sister’s bed number” he admits after a while leaving his hand on the tea cup.

“I… as far as I know secretary Hua said he has a family member hospitalized in this very same hospital” it's true, he remembers the conversation he had with him that day on the taxi, secretary Hua seemed comprehensive, a bit defensive, but comprehensive. 

Could it have actually been a lie? but he remembers that night at the lobby when he was accompanying Mr. Sheng out of the building he… they heard Hua Yong’s phone call with the hospital about a surgery, at the time he didn’t think much about it besides empathizing with him, but now… it felt suspicious, what if he timed the call so others could hear it? Could… could it be secretary Hua was tricking them and Wenlang? No, no, that was not possible… If that were to happen, Wenlang’s aversion towards omega will only grow and he can’t allow that to happen. That will only feed his resentment towards omegas… towards… people like…  him. 

On the other side of the table Shaoyou was repeating the moments he had with Hua Yong trying to find anything suspicious, but now everything seemed suspicious. What if he had been planning all of this? playing innocent to seduce him? the coincidences were oddly a lot, his appearance fitted with the kind of lover he likes to have around, he sighs trying to reason with himself, maybe he is rushing himself, he takes his phone and sends a text to his secretary “find secretary Hua’s hospitalized sister”

“Uhm… Mr Sheng… I will pay you back as soon as possible, I’m sorry about this misunderstanding” Shaoyou stared at him, trying to decipher him, but all he could see was honesty and sincerity, even talking to him gave him a different feeling from Hua Yong, when he talks with him he feels this sort of underlying tension between them, almost as it were courtship in an unusual way “Mr. Sheng… I hope you can accept 5.000 yuan as installment for the surgery’s fees”  Gao Tu slowly slides an envelope with cash on it, Shaoyou just stared the paper “I will make sure to repay the full amount, I'm sorry I can do it right away, as for the prepaid amount I will request a formal withdrawal to the hospital system and return it as soon as I get it back. I’m really sorry” Shaoyou pondered, then leaned back on his chair looking at Gao Tu’s eyes

“HS group pays you that badly? I didn’t expect Shen Wenlang to be that kind of boss” Gao Tu immediately shakes his head 

“Please don’t misunderstand, president Shen is actually a good boss” he pauses pursing his lips “My sister’s health condition growing up wasn’t good at all, she has needed medical care from a really young age thus fees keep growing. But she’s doing great now, she is definitely improving” his lips curved in a nostalgic smile.

“Your sister is real?” he dumps, Gao Tu seems perplexed, he blinks a few times.

“Of course Gao Qing is real, Mr. Sheng. We can visit her right now if you have time” the question certainly offended him. 

Shaoyou is ready to agree when his phone buzzes, it's an update of what he requested from his secretary earlier. He frowned, it wasn’t the answer he wanted, but it was the truth “secretary Hua doesn’t register a family member currently hospitalized, the bed number given by him corresponds to a different person: Gao Qing, secretary Gao younger sister”. He stares at the screen, thinking. 

“Secretary Gao” he calls, looking at him “I think you have realized that this situation is rather odd. I suspect your boss and Mr Hua are scheming something”  Gao Tu looks surprised, it can’t be, if he says it bluntly like that there’s no way Gao Tu would believe it “Secretary Hua doesn’t have a sister here” he says, sliding his phone in the table towards Gao Tu, even after reading it he can’t quite believe it, what’s really going on? “I understand you must feel loyalty towards your boss, but everyone in the industry knows really well of his aversion towards omegas. It's fair for me to assume he’s scheming something along with secretary Hua, though I’m not really sure what yet” Gao Tu shakes his head.

“It’s impossible, Mr. Sheng. I have been working with president Shen for years, he is not the kind of person who would resort to that kind of tactics” he sounds confident, unshakable. 

“Do you really think so?” he asks, leaning back, Gao Tu nods  “Let’s do this; ask him about your sister’s fees. If he takes credit for paying them off that must mean something, right?… Can I count on you?" the secretary stays quiet, swifting his gaze from him to the phone again “Ah, I can tell you I won’t put any of the company's reputation in the line. I believe this is rather a personal matter” then another pause, what he is asking, is a lot from Gao Tu “Don’t request the funds withdrawal until you hear from him” he rises from his chair picking up his phone and looks to the secretary whose gaze was still fixated in the table “Let’s go” then is when the secretary looks at him “Introduce me to your sister” Shaoyou picks up the envelope too putting in his own coat inner sleeve. 

“Ye-yes Mr. Sheng” 

Mr. Sheng and Gao Qing got along surprisingly well, to be honest Shaoyou was a bit taken aback by how welcoming the siblings were and how close they were… it was a sibling relationship he might never experience on his own, but seeing them interact was… comforting. At the end of the visit Shaoyou had given his number to Gao Tu and he had done the same.

That night Gao Tu couldn’t stop thinking about what Mr. Sheng had told him, thinking in the possibilities, what if Wenlang was actually getting tricked? or what if everything was just a misunderstanding and both of them were reading too much into it? Either way, it wasn’t easy for Gao Tu to fall asleep that night. 

The next morning while he was getting ready for work after injecting inhibitors his mind kept wandering to the conversation he had with Shaoyou, not even at work he could shake off that conversation. So on his next report to Shen Wenlang he convinced himself to bring it up during the conversation, he looked at the door for a few seconds before opening it and walking in and there he was, focused on the laptop screen, writing. 

“Mr. Shen” he calls, when Shen Wenlang looks at him he continues “About the afternoon meeting, the cooperative partner temporarily requested to bring their P&D team, so the venue has changed from the media room 201 to the main conference room”

“Got it” he said, glancing at his screen one more time. Gao Tu had already decided on asking him, but it was rather difficult to bring up “anything else?” 

“Oh it's just… Thank you Mr. Shen for helping pay for my sister’s surgery. I promise I’ll pay you back” slow, everything felt slowed down, Gao Tu focused on Wenlang face. Then he notices the way his eyes move before looking at him and even before he says anything, Gao Tu knows his answer. 

“Its not a big deal, don’t mention it” he feels like a big heavy weight has been hung on his shoulders, he keeps his professional facade in front of Wenlang.

“Thank you very much. I will pay”

“You’re welcome, whether you repay me or not doesn’t matter. Just don’t come to work with that omega scent again” Gao Tu feels a sharp pain in his chest, not even at this time he could leave an omega remark out.

“That was all, Mr. Shen” then he leaves his office.

Gao Tu doesn’t go directly to his station, he goes to the bathroom and stares himself in the mirror, this hurts, hurts even more than he thought it could, they have known each other for so long, this felt like a sort of a betrayal, but he wasn’t in the best position to talk about betrayals… he had been hiding the fact he is an omega since he presented. 

At the other side of the city Shaoyou was picking up his phone and for his surprise it was Hua Yong, immediately his guard went up.

“Did you pay for my sister's hospital bill?” was the first thing he asked, Shayou doesn’t say anything "Don't know why you did it, but I really want to thank you. I'll pay you back as soon as possible” so the secretary told Wenlang, otherwise how would Hua Yong know? he tries to hold back his emotions and replies 

 “Besides money, is there anything else you want to say?” He needs to find out his purposes, what is Hua Yong's goal?

“Mr. Sheng, are you free this Saturday? I’d like to invite you for a meal” there it is, so a chance for them to be alone? That's what he wants? but why? Before he answers he feels his phone buzz, he checks the screen and sees a text from secretary Gao “he took credit”. “Mr. Sheng?” he heard from the other end of the line.

“Ah, yes, sorry I spaced out… I’m not sure if I'm free, I’ll check my schedule and let you know, okay?” silence from the other end “I’m sorry I can’t give you a straight out answer, I got an issue in my hands, I will make sure to meet you and have your thanks in person” he heard a soft chuckle from the other end.

“I see, Mr. Sheng, I look forward to our meeting” and hung off. 

immediately after he texted Gao Tu “what time are you off?” then sent another text “secretary Hua isn’t working tonight, right?”  Gao Tu confirmed that day he hadn’t seen secretary Hua at the office. Shaoyou was settled on unmasking whatever these two were planning. 

Night had already fallen when Shaoyou arrived to HS group installations, Gao Tu sees Sheng getting off the car gesturing him to get in, he walks up to the car and gets in with the alpha along him, it was fast and they were already on their way to the next place, but none of them noticed Shen Wenlang who had been walking out the building behind Gao Tu.

“Gao Tu?” he called, but at that moment he was already getting in the car followed by Shaoyou who he didn't recognize from behind “Gao Tu!” he walked up fast trying to get to the entrance “Gao t-!”

“President Shen” he heard one of his subordinates behind him rushing “I’m sorry president Shen, but we need your signature in these documents” . The man had a folder with him which he was opening and extending a pen to Wenlang, he looked at him feeling divided just who the hell was that person? Was that his omega partner? He cursed himself and Gao Tu, how dare he not listen to him? He had even planned to drop him at his home. But Shen Wenlang didn’t stay still, after he checked the documents he bombarded Gao Tu with texts.

Shen Wenlang: Who picked you up?

                       Is it that omega of yours?

                       Why are you not replying?

                       Gao Tu

                       Ga Tu answer me

                       Gao Tu I swear if you don’t answer me 

                       Why are you not seeing my texts?

                       Fine, you better not come to work with that omega’s stench, consider yourself warned Gao Tu

Gao Tu stared at his screen, re-reading the last message several times hoping each time he read it, it would hurt less, but it didn’t. The alpha had brought him to a bar quiet to talk, Mr Sheng was taking a call and left him on the table reading Wenlang’s messages, he hadn’t meant to be be seen by him, he was glad Wenlang couldn’t see Mr. Sheng, he can’t even measure how he would have reacted if he had. Gao Tu sighs wondering, again, why he agreed to meet with him. 

“Sorry it took longer than expected” Shaoyou was back, saving his phone in his pocket. He had not intended to, but catched a glimpse of Gao Tu's phone where he was only able to read the words omega’s stench. Then he noticed Gao Tu’s face “What’s wrong? Do you want to back out now?” Gao Tu shakes his head.

“No, is nothing like that” he straightens in the chair “Shen Wenlang saw us leaving together” Shaoyou shuts his eyes, they had been careless “He didn’t see you Mr. Sheng, he mistook you for someone else” Shaoyou sighs.

“That’s good, why the long face?” he pauses “Don’t tell me you like him” Gao Tu froze in his place “Are you serious?” he asks, shocked, no because who would like someone stubborn and annoying like Wenlang?

“He doesn’t need to know it Mr. Sheng” what’s the point of denying it? it was clear, it was a fact.

“So you are not just concerned about this because he is your boss, but because of your own feelings?” Gao Tu shuts his eyes pursing his lips.

“I just don’t wish Mr. Shen getting hurt” it was natural for him to be concerned, he had always been with Shen Wenlang, part of him fears that if there's actually something going on between Wenlang and Hua Yong and the later is straight up toying with him he doesn’t want the experience to the be a fuel for his hate towards omegas… Hua Yong is really the very first official omega he had let in.

“Fine” Shaoyou says after awhile “As long you help me out and don’t say a word, it works for me”

“Mr. Sheng, did you find something?” he shakes his head.

“Not really” he sits in front of Gao Tu “I think the best way to get something out is pressing Shen Wenlang, but I don’t expect you to do it. I’m thinking of requesting a meeting with him to “re-negotiate”... I have been thinking… what if what they want is me and he is sending Hua Yong?” Gao Tu shakes his head.

“Mr. Shen is not capable of such antics” he mumbles.

“Then what other explanation do you have? I assume after you told your boss about the payment he told secretary Hua, because he called me to “thank me” for covering his sister's expenses. He wants to meet up with me, alone” Gao Tu thinks so far what Mr. Sheng makes perfect sense.

“But these are conjectures… we can’t do much under these”

“Yes, which is why i was thinking on scheduling a meeting with Sheng Wenlang, if they insist on creating some sort of scene it will be enough proof for me” 

“Some sort of scene? What do you mean, Mr. Sheng?”

“Before that. How strong can you drink?” he asks, Gao Tu holds thinking about the inhibitors… surely mixing them won't bring anything good.

“I'm on medication, I'll have to pass on alcohol this time” Shaoyou nods.

“Mocktail?” Gao Tu snorts, and ends up accepting. The alpha requests for the drinks before continuing the conversation they made small talk about drinks while waiting for them. Once they got them Shaoyou took a sip. “First of all”  he pulled his phone out of his pocket, opened the camera function and posed next to a confused Gao Tu with the drinks visible on the table.

“Uhm. What is this?” he asked as he posed.

“Blackmail, for later” said after taking the picture, Gao Tu frowns “Anyways” he goes back to his the sofa-like seat their table had and takes another sip of his drink “I was remembering how things have been since I met secretary Hua at the hospital. Looking back it feels like everything was too perfect to be a coincidence, don't you think?”

“I… don't quite follow, Mr. Sheng”

“Think about it. Isn't it too sudden for Shen Wenlang to take an omega as secretary?” Gao Tu flinched as he was reaching for his drink “Everyone is well aware of how he feels about omegas. Then suddenly he feels like having his hands all over them when he still says gruesome things about omegas? It doesn't add up, also” he says before drinking again from his glass “secretary Hua is… exactly my type”  Gao Tu chokes with his drink.

“Excuse me?” Shaoyou looks at the bottom of his glass, swirling his drink for a moment.

“I said, he is exactly my type” he sighs “face, clothes, way he moves or he looks at things… everything” Gao Tu adjusts his glasses wondering one more time if meeting Mr. Sheng was a good choice at all “Personality… the kind of innocent, hardworking omega… everything fits” Gao Tu sighs.

“Is this another assumption, Mr. Sheng?” he shakes his head.

“No, not at all. Listen, Gao Tu, after meeting secretary Hua at the hospital I bumped into him several times in different places, he insisted on me taking his contact info all of those times as well” maybe Shaoyou reasons to suspect were actually valid it does sounds fishy, and thinking about it… theres counted times where he had seen secretary Hua back at the office since he begun his probation “Remember when we got in Shen Wenlang's office?” he asks after a while. How to not remember? It was his first heartbreak after some time. Wenlang was leaning on Hua Yong's face who was sitting on the president’s chair. “Do you think Shen Wenlang was actually annoyed for being interrupted?” He thought about it, Gao Tu had avoided looking as he glimpsed the two of them unusually close.

“Honestly I don’t know. I didn’t pay much attention to them” its true, but the reason is because he was already hurt when he saw them, he wouldn’t be able to bear to look at them any longer.

“You will need to be more observant. Ah! I got an idea, do you have secretary Hua in WeChat?” he could perceive the malice in his voice, well they had come this far. Gao Tu nodded “Perfect, come here” he said sliding in the seat giving him space to sit next to him. The secretary obliges and sits next to him “Show me your WeChat Moments. Wow, you are pretty boring” Gao Tu crocks his head to look at him frowning, what does he mean? It's pretty standard, a few pics of landscapes, streets, things he had eaten, okay, it was actually just 3 posts with a large gap of time between each other. 

“What about yours, Mr. Sheng?”  he asks looking for his posts 

“Well mine…” Gao Tu had found them and slowly scrolls through them “are work related” he mumbled, making Gao Tu snort.

“So, boring as well” 

“Shut up” Gao Tu laughed loudly at his reaction “Anyway, lets test something” he said amused “Can you post a picture of the glasses?” 

At the beginning Gao Tu isn’t convinced, doesn’t seem like a good a idea, but seeing how invested Mr. Sheng was, he thought why not and did as he said, he made sure to have both drinks visible and the empty seat where he had been before.

“Should I add some kind of description?” 

“Ehh.. something like “glad to be sharing this moment?”” Gao Tu looks at him, taken aback and a bit disgusted. “Come on, this is part of the experiment” Gao Tu sighs and proceeds to post it. The first like doesn't make itself wait, it’s from Hua Yong, then he receives a text from him.

Secretary Hua: Secretary Gao on a date? 

He looks at Shaoyou whose eyes sparkle, this seems good. Hua Yong was invested in Gao Tu’s life, it felt like proof of him pretending to have a sick sister, he was using Gao Tu’s story. He was ready to comment on Gao Tu when he saw multiple notifications under the name of Shen Wenlang filling the screen.

Shen Wenlang: Gao Tu, who's with you? 

                       Is that omega? 

                       Gao Tu answer me.

                       Send me his picture.

                       Gao Tu stop ignoring me.

Shaoyou frowns, he had never thought of that fool as a controller boss, well that was his thought at the beginning, but this seemed different could it be… Shen Wenlang liked the secretary back?

“What’s wrong with him?” he mumbles then suddenly a call request appears on the screen, it's Shen Wenlang… there’s no way this can be happening. There’s no sane boss that would do something like this much less at this hour now it seems he needs to know what kind of dynamic they have. He sees the call dying off and then another couple messages following in. Gao Tu sighs, and opens his chat.

Shen Wenlang: Is that a date? with that omega?

Gao Tu: No, I’m just meeting a friend. 

Shen Wenlang: so now you’re texting back

Gao Tu: Yes, is there something related to work I can help you with, president Shen?

Shen Wenlang: Why do you never post our dinners? 

Gao Tu: I’m not good with technology. Besides, aren’t those work-related dinners? It should be confidential

Shen Wenlang: Next time I take you out, post about it. 

“Are… you sure there's no chance that he is interested in you too?” Gao Tu thinks about it, but shakes his head, that Wenlang? 

“No, we had been working together for so many years. He is like this.” Shaoyou stares at him, there’s no way this is a normal way to react.

“Anyway, what did Secretary Hua say?”

Their meeting had been unexpectedly fun, most of it was Gao Tu trying to keep the rhythm with Mr. Sheng ideas; he had a couple theories of Shen Wenlang and Hua Yong being secretly allies and not lovers, they had some irrelevant conversations as well, neither of them had expected how easy it was for them to keep up a conversation. By the end of the meeting Shaoyou was calling him A-Tu and told him that he would request a meeting with Shen Wenlang during noon if Hua Yong suddenly showed up to the office it would be considered as evidence.

Chapter Text

The next morning was not the best for Gao Tu he felt sick, dizzy, nauseous, it must be the inhibitors taking a toll on him and the fact he didn’t actually rested completely his heat… he just waited until he felt a bit better to get back to work, he can’t have the luxury of missing work, Shen Wenlang was already mad at him and his omega. As every other day, as soon as he felt a bit  better he woke up from bed and began his morning ritual; take a shower, inject his inhibitors, apply a pheromone control patch. He barely had any breakfast, his stomach wasn’t in the condition of taking it. He arrived at work, punctual, as always. On his way to his station he greeted all the employees he met with his perfect business-smile, once he reached his station he checked all the meetings and work for the day he was ready to report to Shen Wenlang his schedule… but he didn’t feel like going there, he sighs leaning his back to the chair then he remembers Mr. Sheng’s words and wanders his gaze in the secretary station, someone is late; secretary Hua Yong. He lets himself be dragged by his thoughts mixed with Mr. Sheng’s words.

“Secretary Gao?” the voice of one of his colleagues brings him back from his thoughts “Could you hand this in to Mr. Shen when you give him his schedule?” 

“Of course”  well, he couldn’t avoid it anymore. He prepared the documents and brewed Wenlang’s tea and knocked on the door.

“Come in” he breathes in before opening the door. 

“Good morning president. Shen” greets with a smile, like usual. He can feel Shen Wenlang’s stare, but tries to not meet his gaze. He leaves the tea on the desk “Your tea and your schedule for today president Shen” he places the folder in front of him not looking directly at his eyes “Is there anything I can help you with, president Shen?” he hears Wenlang clicking his tongue. 

“Yesterday, who was that?” This? this early?... is going to be a long day.

“As I said yesterday, a friend” 

“It was the same who picked you up?” Gao Tu nods, but he’s getting tired already, this is draining him “Where did you go?” asks sliding the folder closer.

“I don’t think it really matters, president. Shen” he notices how Wenlang clutches his fist.

“Clear your schedule for tonight, we are going to have dinner” Gao Tu blinks, he doesn’t remember scheduling any dinner for tonight.

“Oh. Who are we expecting? I can contact the restaurant right away” suddenly having to arrange a business dinner wasn’t out of the norm, he had done it before. He sees Wenlang pinching the bridge of his nose with his fingers.

“No one, just the two of us” Gao Tu tilts his head.

“Pardon?”

“Is going to be just the two of us. Don’t arrange anything, I will handle it by myself” so suddenly? what has gotten into him?

“Is… it okay? wouldn’t it be better if you go with secretary Hua?” Shen Wenlang immediately glares at him, he seems annoyed.

“Why are you bringing him up?” Gao Tu is lost of words, but before he can even say anything he continues “Don’t mind secretary Hua, focus on your work” he purses his lips, he always reacts in a way like this when is related to secretary Hua; defensive.

“Excuse me, president. Shen” another secretary makes his way into the office, Wenlang stares at him “We have received a call from Shengfang Biotechnology, Mr. Sheng Shaoyou would like to arrange a meeting with you at 6 pm” he notices how Shen Wenlang furrows his eyebrows and nods.

“Fit it on my schedule, rearrange the rest if it's necessary. And don't schedule anything else after that meeting, that's all?” 

“Yes” 

“You may leave” the other secretary says yes sir before abandoning the room, Gao Tu notices how Wenlang picks his phone and dials a number before placing it on his ear, then he notices him “you are dismissed for now, we will talk later” 

“Ah, yes. Excuse me” he says leaving the office, but before he even closes the door hears Wenlang.

“Hua Yong, bring your ass here. Shaoyou will be here around 6” that freezes him for a second, he recovers fast and closes the door softly avoiding making a loud noise.

This certainly backed up Mr. Sheng’s theories.. These two certainly were into something, he reaches his station and stares at the screen contemplating his options and wandering back to Shaoyou’s words. He looks at his phone specifically on Shen Wenlang chat scrolling and mindlessly passing through their conversation. Gao Tu sighs again and texts Shaoyou.

Gao Tu: He told him to come

Sheng Shaoyou: Seems I was right, wasn’t I? 

Let’s have drinks tonight, we will have something to celebrate for, my treat.

Gao Tu: Can’t come. Busy with work.

Sheng Shaoyou: Let me know when you’re free for drinks. 

Gao Tu: [sticker of a rabbit with a thumbs up]

The day went by and after lunch break he saw Hua Yong coming from the hallway,  he greeted him like usual and Hua Yong got close to his desk.

“Good afternoon, secretary Gao. How was your date last night?” he teases, Gao Tu shakes his head with a smile.

“It wasn’t a date, secretary Hua. I just met with a good friend and had some drinks”  Hua Young lets out a playful hmmm.

“In any case, I’ll be rooting for you. Secretary Gao” well that was rather an odd conversation, after their conversation on the taxi this has to be the most they have talked to each other besides greetings. Then the phone at Gao Tu’s desk rang, it was Wenlang’s direct line.

“President Shen?” 

“Is secretary Hua there?”  he looks at Hua Yong before he answers, who smiles at him softly.

“Yes, he is” Gao Tu smiles at him back 

“Send him over” and the call ends.

“President Shen requested for your presence, Secretary Hua” 

“Thanks, secretary Gao” and he takes it as his leave. 

He wants to know what Shaoyou had planned for this meeting, he had refused to tell him, but told him to play along helping Hua Yong. Part of him can’t wait for the meeting, the other part of him can’t help but question about it, was this the correct approach after all?

The time for the meeting was almost up, he made his way to the lobby to wait for Shaoyou, like the first time; secretary Hua did not join him.

“Welcome, Mr. Sheng, secretary Chen” he greeted both of the men politely, flawless, as always. Shaoyou smirked at him.

“Good afternoon, secretary Gao, we have an appointment with Mr. Shen” announced the secretary.

“Of course, please follow me” 

Gao Tu guided them, making small talk about how they were expecting them and that they were happy to host them any time they wanted. As they reach Shen Wenlang’s office Gao Tu knocks and makes himself in. 

“President Shen, Mr. Shen has arrive-

The scene that welcomed him straight up hurt him, Hua Yong was sitting on Wenlang’s lap and he had a hand over his cheek. He heard Shaoyou scoffing behind him, and then his hand on his back.

“Told you” mumbled really low. Yes, he did, but why does it still hurt? Gao Tu pursed his lips.

“Mr. Sh-Sheng” Hua Yong gets up the fastest he can while Wenlang gets up straightening his coat.

“Well, welcome Mr. You” Shaoyou holds a chuckle and makes his way in.

“I didn’t know you had enough free time to be fooling around, Wenlang”  he sees how his eyebrow twitches “I guess I should give you credit by combining it with work” he sits in the chair in front of Wenlang’s desk under everyone’s eyes “please?” He gestures to Wenlang to get back to his side of the desk, which he does in silence.

“Do I assume this meeting is related to our previous conversation? I must remind you I wont sell my child” Wenlang smiles and tries to carry on the meeting with the lack of reaction from Shaoyou and avoids looking at Hua Yong. 

“Not quite” the other alpha’s smile fades “Got a proposal for you”

“Gao Tu” calls Wenlang, indicating to take the secretaries away, well he didn’t instruct anything, but Gao Tu knew. 

“Is not necessary, they can stay” Wenlang lifted an eyebrow to Shaoyou’s request "I believe they can handle this meeting professionally and with its corresponding confidentiality” Shaoyou was clearly up to something.

“Uhm.. Mr. Sheng, please have some tea. I brewed it” intervenes Hua Yong, placing a cup in front of Shaoyou and pouring tea on it, then doing the same with Wenlang. 

“Thanks, secretary Hua” he says without even taking his eyes off Wenlang  “In order for us to strengthen HS group’s and Shengfang bio’s friendship. I want us to be more collaborative. You see, we have been developing a new type of inhibitor that’s compatible with medicines in the painkillers category and we have reduced counter effects in comparison to the options currently in the market by 40%. Wenlang, this is something that will change the industry” Wenlang eyes widened, indeed this could change the industry future so… why he’s not launching it right away?

“It… will certainly change the industry, but why isn’t ShengFang Bio launching it?” 

“Because it is my bargaining chip, Wenlang. I’m offering you this new inhibitor patent in exchange for HS group technology and research in a certain patient whose health condition is rather a mystery for the current medicine” the silence has never been louder.

“Do you understand what you are offering, Mr. Shaoyou?” he nods.

“Im giving you a gold mine, years of profit in exchange of a man’s life” 

Frankly speaking, Shen Wenlang would be a fool if he lets this chance go. It sounds like a great deal, a really good one, one of the biggest ones in his career… considering finances wise he wants to take it right away, but the fact Shaoyou is gambling this big opportunity in exchange for the technology… he knows is going to be a challenge and if Shengfang bio is capable of producing an inhibitor at that scale is just a matter of time for new bigger projects and medicines… having them as an ally would be rather more beneficious. 

“45% from sales, is launched under your company and you can have my specialist team working on it”  Shaoyou blinks confused, he had just offered the full rights for the inhibitors and he wants to take only 45% revenue?

“I don’t think I was clear enough, Wenlang. I'm offering you all the rights to the patent so you can produce it and get 100% profit from it” the other alpha nods.

“I understand your offer, Mr. Shaoyou and as you said we should work on strengthen our friendship” 

A silence formed once more, Shaoyou reclined his back on the chair. It has been different from the first time and against the odds, he wouldn’t be losing much and he would be able to save his father… it had been… stupidly easy.

“Lets draft the contract, right away” he saw Wenlang standing up and he did the same, then he shook Wenlang’s hand.

“Ah, I have a request Wenlang” 

“Let me hear it” 

“I want secretary Gao to manage our communication” Wenlang tilted his head as his eyebrows furrowed.

“You can have secretary Hua, he’s the best on this field”

“But I want Gao Tu” tension arised, Gao Tu tried looking at Hua Yong whose eyes had gone dark and were fixated on him, it made him shiver.

“Mr. Sheng” he rushed himself to talk “Please listen to president Shen, he is right. Secretary Hua is really capable and professional”

“After what I saw today and the last time I doubt secretary Hua’s professionalism” points, looking at Gao Tu, then looks at Wenlang “besides, secretary Gao and I have gotten pretty close lately, I trust him the most” 

“close?” the wolf mumbles locking eyes with him. 

“Yes we are pretty close, I even met his family” Wenlang feels his blood getting hotter, he knows him from years and he still hasn’t even met his sister, so at the end is not just an omega who is taking him away? an alpha too? 

“No” he says dry “You can’t have him” 

“Why not? I want Gao Tu on my side” then a strong smell of irises hit his nose, it was Wenlang’s pheromones in response he released his own just to ease his breathing, the irises smell was too strong. 

“You can’t have Gao Tu. He’s mine” 

“He’s just a secretary, you have tons of them, give me Gao Tu” the room was drowning in pheromones at that point “we should hear his opinion, don’t you think?” He breaks contact with Wenlang to look at the secretary, but when he sees him his legs have just given in “Shit, A-Tu!” yells rushing to the secretary taking him in his arms.

“Gao Tu!” In a blink he was next to them, he tried reaching for him from Shaoyou’s arms but he carried him in his arms before he could even touch him.

“Pingming get the car, quickly” the secretary runs from the office as Shaoyou follows 

“Shit!” Wenlang had his hands on his hair, he looked at Hua Yong before running behind Shaoyou “bring a car!” he yelled to the secretaries as he followed. 

In Sheng Shaoyou’s car, Gao Tu’s body suddenly released pheromones that smelled like sage, they quickly invaded the car.

“A-Tu is an omega” he mumbled “Pingming” he coughed “Pass me the inhibitor, quickly” the secretary did his best reaching to the glove box and retrieving a case that gives to Shen, he quickly injects himself.  

At the hospital Gao Tu is rushed to get seen by a doctor, Shen Wenlang arrives shortly after he is admitted and demands Shaoyou to know about his state, but Shaoyou is sitting in the waiting room with his gaze fixed on nothing, he feels a hand on his shoulder and finally sees Wenlang in front of him.

“Where is he?” he demands.

“He is inside, doctors are checking on him” the wolf audibly sighs and sits next to him.

“What happened to him?” Shaoyou stared at him, observant.

“You really don’t know?” he shakes his head “He’s an omega, our pheromones affected him” Wenlang scoffs.

“Is not funny” he rubs his temples “Gao Tu is a beta” Shaoyou purses his lips

“He is not, clearly” 

“What do you know? I have known him for years, he is a beta” insists, getting annoyed, what kind of joke is that? He, an omega?

“I guess he wouldn’t be an omega as long as he could stay with you, asshole” Wenlang turns to him angrily.

“What does that even mean?” 

“Can’t you just use your goddamn brain? How is it possible for you to run a company and be so damn oblivious at the same time?” he makes a pause, trying to hold his own emotions “He smells like sage” 

“That’s not hi-”

Shen Wenlang fell silent and went through all the times he had smelled sage around Gao Tu, and he realized it was a smell he had smelt countless times before Gao Tu alleged to have an omega partner and slowly everything fitted… the way he would avoid mentioning this omega partner at all cost, even to him, who had been by his side for so long! and he still didn't know his face or his name?! Then he remembers how Gao Tu’s  ears slightly dropped every time he said something bad about omegas or how he pressed his lips in a thin line… and then the conversation they had at Hua Yong’s place where he demanded him to wash up better the next time he… was on heat, he… interrupted his heat to bring them the flashdrive. He had been a complete asshole with him all this time. 

First the rage of a betrayal came, they had been together for so long and he never said a single word about it? he never felt safe with him? Then sadness took over him, all this time and Gao Tu doesn't feel the same as he does? Why? Even when he trusts Gao Tu with every fiber of his existence and he doesn't? not even after all this time? Is he not worthy enough to be his confidant? Then guilt, the guilt of having been cruel to him for absolutely no good reason, no, he had one… it wasn’t a good reason, but it was a reason; he was under the impression he was going to be taken away from him any day and he couldn’t bear that feeling, that along with his aversion towards omegas it certainly wasn’t the best combo. Then, as a whole revelation he understood why he would feel irritated every time he smelt the even bare hint of what he thought it was another person smell on him and now when Shaoyou had say he wanted him, that anger that made him almost go feral… he loved him, Shen Wenlang was in love with Gao Tu.  Then he remembered the plan, Hua Yong’s stupid plan on which he had been playing along, did Gao Tu misunderstood his actions as well? Does he think… he is interested in Hua Yong? Hell! 

“How is secretary Gao doing?” As if just thinking of him he had summoned the devil in front him, he just looked at him.

“I will ask” Shaoyou said, getting up, leaving the two of them alone.

“You promised no one else would be involved, Hua Yong!” he said, trying to lower his voice, looking at him, but Hua Yong is only looking at him with dead eyes, and sighs.

“How was I supposed to know your secretary would get in the way?” Wenlang wants to stand up and yell at him “Wasn’t he supposed to be a beta?” Wenlang rubs his eyes, annoyed.

“I don’t know anymore, I thought he was”

“So he lied to you?” the alpha didn’t answer, verbally at least “How much attached are you to him?” he asked casually sitting next to him, that question made him turn around fast with his eyes wide open.

“Don’t you even dare to put a hand on him” Hua Yong frowns.

“You can’t tell me what to do” he crosses his legs “I already told you, anyone that gets in the way between me and Mr. Sheng will suffer consequences" 

“I don’t care about the rest, just not Gao Tu” in a certain way it felt like bargaining with a grim reaper.

“Mr. Sheng called him A-Tu” Wenlang's jaw tensed, he closed his eyes and nodded one time.

“I heard it too”

“So?” 

“I will look into it, just, Don’t hurt Gao Tu” Hua Yong leaned in.

“Why are you so interested in that secretary?” Wenlang places a hand on his forehead and brushes his own hair backwards “Could it be… you have feelings for him?” the alpha doesn’t say anything, which is enough for Hua Yong who takes a moment to think “Keep him away from Mr. Sheng and I’ll pretend this didn’t happen” 

From afar, Shaoyou had seen the scene and noticed how Hua Yong’s movements seemed way more natural than when he saw him pretending to be innocent, honestly? It wasn't bad at all. The meeting had helped him understand what they wanted from him, at least it didn’t seem it was to take over his company, it seemed the interest was from Hua Yong to him. He walks towards them and coughs softly, he sees how Hua Yong in swift move changed his posture.

“Seems they are still trying to stabilize him” he rubbed the back of his head, frustrated, guilty, his pheromones had contributed to Gao Tu’s state. He looks at Wenlang who looks clearly affected, concerned, anxious “he is in good hands, Wenlang” said as he placed a hand on his shoulder trying to comfort him.

“Did… my pheromones caused this?” he mumbled with a certain weakness in his voice.

“Partially” Hua Yong says as he hands him over his phone, Wenlang looks at him wanting to ask, but looks back at the phone.

It was a document, it had Gao Tu’s medical record. Wenlang closes his eyes, when did he prepare this? On his way to the hospital? Or way before it? Did Hua Yong know Gao Tu was an omega before he did?

“I’m not reading it” he resolves, giving it back “I want to hear it from his mouth” Hua Yong doesn’t add anything and puts his phone away.

“I… have part of the blame too, don’t just go ahead monopolizing it by yourself” 

And they waited for updates, but everything felt slowed down. It almost felt like time wasn’t moving at all, it felt as if it had trapped them in that waiting room; immovable. At some point Wenlang had started walking around, but everything remained the same, no updates. He tried sitting down and scrolling through his phone, but then again he found himself going through his chat with Gao Tu, looking at the pictures they had together, very business-like, and there he was missing him, wanting to see him again, feeling the need to touch him, to feel his warmth, to have him there with him just the idea of not being able to see him anymore hurts his chest…. He didn’t even register right away when tears ran down his cheeks, he wiped them off, roughly with the back of his hand trying to divert his thoughts. 

“Mr Gao Tu’s family members?” Wenlang he is the first one standing up, almost running towards the nurse that had called for them “Uhm sir…? Are you his family member?” suddenly the hospital’s norms strike him, if he says he is a friend the information they agree to give him is limited, much less to a co-worker.

“Im… Gao Tu’s… partner” blurts out “His only blood related family member is hospitalized and a minor”  the nurse nods.

“Please follow me” she asks and guides him into the unit to a doctor's office where he is met by a man rubbing his face, he seems tired “Doctor, i have brought Mr. Gao’s partner” immediately, as if it were a spell the man darted eyes his way. The nurse took her leave right after.

“You are the patient’s alpha?” he asks with a rough voice, Wenlang nods, doubtful “First of all, we managed to stabilize him, his condition is delicate, his heart rate dropped drastically a couple times”  those words made him shiver, it was worse than he thought “his pheromones levels are extremely unbalanced,  I assume you are aware of his abuse of inhibitors” Wenlang tilts his head after hearing those words.

“Abuse of inhibitors?” the doctor narrows his eyes.

“Overabuse, the level of damage in his gland… It's been years of prolonged abuse of these medicines” it alarms him, he had read about pheromone imbalances produced by the constant use of inhibitors and not going through the heat cycle naturally a few times in the past, he knows it is dangerous.  

“What… what can I do for him?” he asks, scared.

“There isn’t much you can do besides stop forcing him to use inhibitors” he blinks, he thinks he forced Gao Tu into using inhibitors? He didn’t know he was using them in the first place! But he doesn’t want to start a discussion, he wants Gao Tu recovery to be speedy.

“He has to stop using inhibitors completely?” the doctor sighs

“and he also has to go through his heat cycle uninterrupted” the thought of Gao Tu in heat faintly appeared in his head and its shook it away immediately “he must be admitted in the hospital whenever the next cycle comes"  

“He can't spend it at home?” the doctor stared at him as if he was crazy. In Wenlang's head, Gao Tu would probably prefer to be at home than at hospital. 

“You, psycho!” Wenlang is taken aback by the sudden reaction “His body needs to adjust and recover! his body's condition isn't good at all and all you are thinking is spending his heat together? maniac!” Wenlang's face goes fully red and shakes his head profusely.

“That's not what I meant!” The doctor sighs, again “I understand” seems that trying to clear up a misunderstanding with that man would only bring more and more misunderstandings  “Can i see him now?”

“Come with me” he says making his way to the door, the doctor guides him to Gao Tu's  room. Once they were in front the room the doctor turns to him “He is asleep, don't wake him up” 

They get in and once Sheng Wenlang looks at him, pale, laying in the bed looking weaker and vulnerable as he has never seen him before made his heart ache. He sees the doctor checking on his IV and his heart rate on the monitor.

“I’ll give you some time with him” he just nods without taking his eyes from Gao Tu. 

Shen Wenlang sits on the chair next to Gao Tu’s bed, he reaches out for his hand, cautiously, carefully and it feels cold… too cold, it scares him, he holds his hand between his trying to warm it up, he presses his forehead on the hands as a loud sob leaves his throat. 

The realization crushed him hard, Gao Tu could have died, gone, forever. Abandoning him, he would rather have a vicious omega taking Gao Tu away than disappearing, actually no, he wasn’t okay with that either, but he wasn’t being rational now, he’s scared and would do anything for Gao Tu anything as long it means he will be safe and healthy. He better live a long and fulfilling life. 

After a while he begins to study his face, detailing his features with his gaze remembering how he usually expresses himself. He thinks of the times where Gao Tu’s ears would perk up every time he smiles or how they would slightly drop when something wasn’t alright… he was like a rabbit, a bunny. 

Then he thinks about the future. How are things going to be moving forward? How is he supposed to tell him he knows his secret? He doesn’t want to hurt him… and thinking about it, did all of this mean Gao Tu was actually single? So no one would take him away from him? He could… try courting him, right? Somehow knowing Gao Tu doesn’t have a proper partner fuels him with the desire of having him by his side, closer. How does he look when he blushes? When he’s shy? He doesn’t know, but wants to know. 

Outside Sheng Shaoyou and Hua Yong shared the silence after Wenlang went in, Shaoyou seemed really focused in his thoughts and Hua Yong was just looking at him.

“Mr. Sheng” he calls, after a while.

“Yes, secretary Hua?” Hua Yong places his hand on the alpha’s arms and in a sweet voice he asks.

“Do you think secretary Gao will be fine?” Shaoyou just stares at him and sighs.

“I don’t think it’s the moment for things like this, Mr. Hua” he says, removing Hua Yong’s hand looking again at the door where Wenlang had gone through. 

He was right, he had been way too bold and rushed too fast. But secretary Gao had messed up his plans, and now he has to improvise.

Shen Wenlang was looking at Gao Tu’s face, again waiting for him to open his eyes, he had lost the track of time invested in his thoughts watching Gao Tu’s sleep, he brushed his cheek softly then he kissed his hand. Then he hears a knock on the door, he turns to find the doctor looking at him.

“When is he going to wake up?” he asks, looking at Gao Tu again. 

“It could be at anytime now, he body is exhausted” he looks at Wenlang caressing Gao Tu’s hand.

“Can I… can I stay the night with him?” the doctor rubs the back of his head.

“Would your presence shock him?”  Wenlang closes his eyes, so its a no “you can come back tomorrow morning once he’s awake, by the way tomorrow anyone can visit him” the alpha moves his head “made an exception since you are his partner” So being his partner had this kind of benefits it wasn’t bad at all. He found himself liking the word partner more than he expected. 

Wenlang gets up from the chair without letting go Gao Tu’s hand, he leans close to his face and with a really tender voice he mumbles:

“I’m coming to see you tomorrow, Tutu” he brushes his cheek with his finger tips really really softly “be good and get well soon”.

Chapter Text

Shen Wenlang almost dragged his feet outside the unit, he didn’t want to leave Gao Tu there, alone. But the doctor had a point, and the less he wants to do now is to interfere in his recovery process, still, he wishes he could stay. As soon as Shaoyou sees him he gets up.

“How’s A-Tu?” Wenlang stares at him, that nickname, again. 

“He is stable but sleeping, I was able to see him. The doctor said he can have visitors tomorrow” he presses the bridge of his nose, he’s tired “Anyway, why are you calling him A-Tu?” Shaoyou blinks, and smirks.

“What’s that?” Wenlang glares at him “I can’t call him A-Tu? He allowed it” the other alpha purses his lips, why is he suddenly being an ass? “He is my friend” Wenlang frowns.

“You know what? This conversation can wait” he looks at Hua Yong “Let’s go, I'll drive you off” Hua Yong gets up from his seat after a sigh.

“I can take secretary Hua” both of them looked at him then they exchanged looks “You should get some rest Shen Wenlang, you look like you need it” he nods a bit weirded out.

Sheng Shaoyou and Hua Yong were in the back seat of the car, the ride was rather silent, Shaoyou eyes were glued to the window, Hua Yong was rather dazed off, the situation kept shifting and he wasn’t adapting fast enough to it. Once they arrived to Hua Yong’s street he got off after thanking him, to his surprise, Shaoyou got off with him and accompanied him to the door.

“Do you mind letting me in? I won’t take much of your time” 

Shaoyou was sitting on the sofa drinking the tea Hua Yong had served him, Hua Yong was analyzing him, but for some reason the easy to read mr. Sheng was unbelievably hard to read now. 

“I’ll cut to the chase, secretary Hua, what do you want?” Hua Yong lifted his head smiling softly as he closed his eyes, so this is how things are going to be? 

“I don’t quite understand what you mean, Mr. Sheng” he smirks

“Look, I'm attracted to you and I'm confident you are too” well well, wasn’t this a pleasant surprise? Maybe the change in his plans wasn’t bad at all “So, what do you wanna do?”  Hua Yong reaches for his cheek.

“I didn’t know you were this cocky, mr. Sheng” teases “I’m confident I can make you fall head over heels for me” a swift move; Hua Yong had placed a finger under his chin and was lifting his head, Shaoyou felt unexpectedly aroused by it. 

“So? How do you pretend to do it?” Hua Yong leans in close to his lips, not touching them, but feeling each other's breath.

“Not telling, but you’ll definitely feel it” said gently brushing his lips on Shaoyou’s. 

At the other side of the city Wenlang was laying down in his bed, trying to sleep, but every time he tried the events repeated in his head non stop, the image of Gao Tu laying down in the bed looking frail struck him pretty harshly. Was this a waking up call? Was it a chance for a change in their relationship? 

Being unable to sleep he checks his phone again, he ends up looking at Gao Tu’s WeChat moments and sees that picture again; two glasses, he frowns staring at the screen, could it be it was actually a date? At the beginning he hadn’t seen the post, he was busy sulking at the fact Gao Tu hadn't replied to any of his texts, it  was Hua Yong who sent him the post.

Lunatic: Secretary Gao isn’t that boring as he looks

Shen Wenlang: What are you talking about? 

                       He’s not boring.

                       Where did you see that?

Lunatic: Seems he’s having a good time~ 

             What do you mean where? It’s on his moments, he just posted them. 

He froze the moment he saw the post, he looked at his previous posts that were just simple, basically Gao Tu to its core, but this? This was new. Since when does he go to bars after work? Hold on, what if it was a date? With that stranger? In a blink he was texting Gao Tu, who dared to not reply to him but his status clearly showed online, he tried calling… nothing, then the replies came and the conversation ended with him demanding to post the next time they were out, because… how is that a stranger got posting privileges and he didn’t? He had seniority rights! 

He finds himself staring at the post again and he wonders if it would be a good idea asking someone about it… then he sends the post to Shaoyou.

Shen Wenlang: Do you know who that was?

Sheng Shaoyou: Yeah, I know.

Shen Wenlang: Who was it? 

Sheng Shaoyou: I have a picture.

Shen Wenlang: Send it.

He receives the picture and he almost dropped his phone, any hint of doziness faded right away, he typed in his phone the fastest he could. In the picture it was Shaoyou and Gao Tu in a bar, the latter was posing, making a peace sign with his fingers and a smile . 

Shen Wenlang: What is this! 

Sheng Shaoyou: A picture, obviously.

Shen Wenlang: You bastard

                       You went out with him? 

Sheng Shaoyou: Yep [peace emoji]

Shen Wenlang: Why?

                       What do you want with Gao Tu?

                       Don’t you even dare to lay a hand on him.

Sheng Shaoyou: Uwah, how scary.

Shen Wenlang: I’m serious

                       Don’t even think about it

                       Take Hua Yong

Sheng Shaoyou: Man, what’s your WPM? 

                         It’s dizzying me out 

Shen Wenlang: What even is that

Sheng Shaoyou: word per minute, you type so fast lololol

Shen Wenlang: What’s wrong with it

                       Don’t change the topic.

                       What are your intentions with Gao Tu? 

                       Don’t be quiet so suddenly

                       Hey stop ignoring me 

                       Sheng Shaoyou

Sheng Shaoyou: [replying to: Take Hua Yong] but what if I want A-Tu? You can keep Hua Yong.

He gets mad, he types, but deletes what he’s typing and types again and repeats.

Sheng Shaoyou: Are you cursing my bloodline? lololol

Shen Wenlang: You’re psycho. 

And he changes Shaoyou’s contact name to ‘Psychoyou’, he leaves the chat and checks his gallery looking for the picture he had sent him, he opens it up and looks at it; detailing, as soon as his eyes lands on Shaoyou he makes a disgusted face and zooms the picture in Gao Tu. This is better. And he looks nice, kinda cute too, thinking about it is the first picture he has of him posing more relaxed, their pictures together are always the complete opposite, straighten, formal, business like.

Then a notification pops up, it reads “Psychoyou sent you a photo” and he taps on it, is another picture, but its only Gao Tu on it its a candid picture; he is laughing, he can almost hear his laugh ringing in his ears. 

Psychoyou: There, a present.

Shen Wenlang: So you can be a good friend after all.

Psychoyou: Of course I am. 

Shen Wenlang: Those are the only ones you have? 

Psychoyou: [laughing tiger sticker] 

That night, Wenlang fell asleep looking at Gao Tu’s pictures and thinking where he should take him when he recovers. He feels the need to have pictures of Gao Tu with different backgrounds, almost like a card gacha game, but filled only with Gao Tu’s pictures. 

The next day he went to a flower shop and requested a wishing recovery bouquet, surprisingly the bouquet had two irises and sage as decoration on it, he smiled at it and went to the hospital; at the entrance he met Shaoyou who also happened to have a bouquet on him, smaller, simpler. 

“What are you doing here this early?” he said already annoyed 

“Visiting my friend” he shrugs

“Don’t you have a business to run or something?” Shaoyou lifts an eyebrow

“Don’t you?” Wenlang snorts, and walks into the building.

“Why did you bring him flowers?” 

“I thought it would cheer him up, why did you bring them?” Wenlang narrows his eyes and stops abruptly. 

“We need to have a talk first” he says moving his head telling him to follow him.

They went to the Hospital resting zone in the open, Wenlang left the flowers on a bench and Shaoyou did the same. 

“What do you want to talk about?” he asks, casually. Wenlang darts eyes at him.

“What are you plotting?”  Shaoyou shakes his head laughing then shrugs, again, what's his deal? 

“Nothing, I’m just a friend. Don’t tell me you are jealous” he teases, considering how dense Wenlang was yesterday there's a high chance he hasn’t figured out his feelings yet.

“I am” he admits, making Shaoyou’s eyes widen due the surprise “I… have feelings for Gao Tu. I realized recently” he makes a pause, Wenlang, the person who hates omegas is in love with one? And most important he’s recognizing it? “So, are you going to get in the way or are you just a friend?” His voice sounds extremely defiant and Shaoyou chuckles.

“I knew it” Wenlang frowns “There is no way you are in that sort of a relationship with Hua Yong” Wenlang is taken aback, shit, he just blew out Hua Yong’s plan… he’s going to be mad. Then adds “Why bother with all this mess then?” and as if some sorcery Wenlang realizes something.

“You knew and you have been trying to get back at us?” Shaoyou laughs.

“I wasn’t trying to get back at you at all. I genuinely care for A-Tu” his eyebrows twitches, the nickname, again “What we wanted was to know why the act” 

“We?” he blinks and his eyes widen “Gao Tu knows? He was with you on this?!” Shaoyou shakes his head.

“Not fully” admits “He just wanted to know if secretary Hua was playing with you, he didn’t want you to be hurt” Wenlang’s lips form a line. It meant Gao Tu was concerned about Hua Yong “I never expected things to turn out this way, honestly” so at the end he was right; Shaoyou is a scheming psycho, just like Hua Yong, they deserve each other “My worry towards Gao Tu is sincere, Shen Wenlang, I never considered putting his health on the line. I'm truly remorseful. I didn’t know he was an omega." The look on Shaoyou’s face was enough for him to convince him of his honesty. Wenlang nods.

“I understand” 

In Gao Tu’s room the omega was fully awake, he already had his breakfast by that time, he felt weak and tired, but it wasn’t that bad, he just hoped he could get out of the hospital soon to get back to work, well assuming he still has a job. He had asked what happened to him to a nurse and she had updated him on his condition, part of him was scared his status had been revealed to them, but at the same time is was kind of comforting thinking his secret was out, but then Wenlang’s face appeared in his head, he shuts his eyes and feels a tear falling down his cheek. Wenlang will be mad at him, for lying for so long… for being one of those stinky omegas, he knows he will be mad at him and would probably chase him out, but still? He wants to see him, giving up was too hard, it's been so long, they have been through a lot… and he still finds himself loving him. 

He hears the door opening and quickly wipes his cheeks and leans his back to the pillows.

“I told you, you should come in later, why are you coming with me” he could recognize that annoyed voice anywhere. He sees Wenlang getting into the room, his face looking the other way.

“Do you ever shut up?”  he sees him narrowing his eyes darting a death glare.

“You should listen to your own words” the interaction was oddly friendly “Gao Tu…” he mumbles as he sees him, he walks the fastest he can towards him.

“President Shen” he greets.

“How are you feeling, Gao Tu?” asks with an uncharacteristically soft voice “I… brought these” he extends the bouquet to him, Gao Tu looks at the vibrant colors taken aback “Gao Tu?” he blinks and takes them.

“Sorry, thanks president Shen they are… beautiful” he brings them closer to his chest looking at each flower is… really pretty. 

“Are you okay, A-Tu?” Shaoyou appears in his sight and he nods as a greeting. 

“Mr. Sheng” somehow, when Wenlang heard him referring to Shaoyou as Mr. Sheng gave him reassurance he didn't know he needed, but at the same time, Gao Tu had just called him president Shen.

“Here, get well soon” he extended the bouquet under Wenlang's gaze. Gao Tu accepted it too.

“Ah, thank you very much…” he mumbled looking at the new flower arrangements, it had simpler flowers on it and the colors weren't as vibrant as Wenlang’s bouquet, he catched a glimpse of irises.

“Wenlang, why don't you do something nice and get vases for the flowers?” the cynic way Shaoyou asked earned a good condemning stare from the alpha. They had talked about it earlier in his conversation about his intentions with the secretary, Shaoyou had requested for a time alone with him before leaving. He had something important to do after. Wenlang turned to Gao Tu.

“I'll be back in a minute” he takes his leave. Gao Tu places the flowers on the auxiliary table and looks at Shaoyou, without knowing what to say, he feels defeated.

“I’m sorry” he manages out, not really knowing what else to say “I heard from the nurses I-”

“It’s okay” He interrupts him “Look I should be the one apologizing to you” he pauses “I shouldn’t have used my pheromones I” an uncomfortable silence fell upon them “By the way” Gao Tu looks at them “We still have something to celebrate, you still owe me some drinks” Gao Tu smiles as he lowers his gaze.

“Do I? What are we celebrating?” 

“My theory was correct” he says, proudly. Gao Tu chuckles "There's nothing going on with those two, it was a farce”  Gao Tu frowns.

“What?” Shaoyou snorts playfully.

“It was a plan, most likely Hua Yong’s to provoke me” the omega nods, confused “He wanted me” Gao Tu chokes from the impression “and he’s moving in with me” Gao Tu can't do much but stare at him, just how fast are things going for them?

“I’ll… root for you two” he omits the question inflection in his own voice, he’s not sure about this, but remembering Hua Yong’s stare back at the office is enough to shut down any question, after all Shaoyou seems happy.  

“Thanks” he pats him on the shoulder “Means you still have a chance, don’t you think?” Gao Tu’s eyes turned sad; he still had to hear Wenlang’s reaction about his lie “A-Tu. I think you should tell him” but Gao Tu didn’t move “If he fires you, you can always come to work with me” but Shaoyou knows that's not happening, who knows until what extends Wenlang is capable of just to keep him by his side. 

“I appreciate it” 

They made small talk about the treatment he was receiving and around how many days he would have to be under medical care. After a while Wenlang came back with two vases, Shaoyou helped him by accommodating the flowers before saying goodbye. Gao Tu had avoided looking directly to Wenlang and at the same time had hoped Shaoyou would have taken him with him, but it didn’t happen.

“Gao Tu” his voice made him flinch, he knew Wenlang was sitting beside him, but he didn’t have the courage to turn to him. 

“Yes, president Shen?” he says, without looking at him.

“Don’t call me like that when we are not in the office” he protests, Gao Tu nods, silence strikes again. 

Then a citrus smell struck Gao Tu, he turned to find Wenlang peeling a tangerine, separating the wedges and putting them in a plate which he slid toward the omega who stared at the fruit, he felt like crying. Wenlang hasn’t said a word, but he is there, silently accompanying him.

“They told you, didn’t they?” Gao Tu asks, with his voice broken. Wenlang closes his eyes and breaths before opening them. 

“Yes, I heard” Gao Tu’s hands tighten.

“Aren’t you angry?” Wenlang thinks his answer, he wants to be honest, but he doesn’t want to hurt him either.

“I was, at the beginning” he was about to add something else, but Gao Tu spoke first. 

“I can leave the company right away” Wenlang tramples his words after hearing Gao Tu, but he doesn't say anything understandable, then breathes.

“You don’t have to”  he rubs his temples

“But I lied to you” for the first time Gao Tu looks at him. 

“So what? I still have known you for years. You are still the same hardworking Gao Tu that I know, aren’t you?” Gao Tu lowers his head, ashamed.

“Im sorry” he hears him cry, and Wenlang is silent reaching for one of his hands, he places his hand on top of his, he doesn’t grab them, just lets it sit there, resting, supporting. 

He gave Gao Tu space to let it out, honestly he didn’t know exactly what to do, but this felt right. Once Gao Tu sobs decreased, Wenlang prepared tissues, and handed them one by one to Gao Tu who used them.

“Here, eat something” he said after a while sliding the fruit deeper. The omega took a piece and ate it.

“It’s sweet” The door swings and the doctor makes his way in and he looks at them nods complacent.

“Good morning”  he greets  both of them reply to his greet “I have seen the results of the samples we took earlier this morning, you should be good to rest at home in two days”

“What about work?” Gao Tu asks, Wenlang stares, he shouldn’t rush to work, he needs to be fully recovered before even considering going back.

“Not happening soon. Maybe after three days of resting at home” he pauses “I believe you will fully rest this time, since you have a partner now” Gao Tu’s eyes widen as he looks at Wenlang, then at the doctor.

“I-is not like that doctor we-” but the doctor doesn’t listen. He is now looking at Wenlang.

“I believe you will contribute to his recovery process” the alpha nods “good”.

The doctor proceeds to check up Gao Tu, then leaves the room, leaving them alone again.

“Sorry, he assumed that… you are my partner” he apologizes, averting his gaze, he feels too embarrassed to look at Wenlang.

“It’s okay” but Wenlang is enjoying it. How good would it be if everyone thought of them as partners? that would draw a line with all of the flies trying to get to Gao Tu “I don’t mind it. Ah, I’ll be visiting you everyday” he mentions casually and then he takes a moment to muster up the courage to explain the situation to him “Gao Tu” he calls him and the bunny looks at him with a faint smile and tilting his head “There’s nothing between me and Hua Yong. He is actually… my childhood friend” admits Gao Tu gets startled at the mention of the former secretary’s name “He… he likes someone and I was helping him to court that person, but I don't have any feelings towards him” he pauses “Honestly sometimes he gives me the creeps, he’s a lunatic. If I ever tell you what he has done, you wouldn’t believe me” Wenlang shivers, just talking about him was enough to creep him out now? 

“So… Mr. Sheng was right” mumbles, he hears Wenlang sigh.

“Yes, that’s another psycho. They are made of each other” Gao Tu feels tempted to laugh at Wenlang's grossed out expression, but he holds it.

“I heard from Mr. Sheng they are moving together” Wenlang felt goosebumps. Gao Tu kept eating the tangerine under Wenlang’s eyes.

“Gao Tu” he called after a while, Gao Tu had just finished putting the last bit of the tangerine in his mouth, he looked at him “Are you currently seeing someone?” Gao Tu chokes, Wenlang leans in to help him.

“What?” he managed to ask after he recovered, Wenlang went to pour water on a glass and extended it to him, he drank then he looked at him incredulously. Wenlang  fixes his eyes on the floor, then looks up and sighs exasperated.

“I'm just curious” mumbles “If the scent was yours all along…” It's like all the words he knew suddenly vanished and the room was uncomfortable. He tries to come up with something else the fastest he can, but nothing comes “Uh, Gao T-”

“I’m not” he answers shortly and stares the bed sheets, inadvertently his answer had fueled Wenlang’s intentions, now he knows there's no one in his way “I go to work and rarely spend time out, except to visit sister at the hospital” 

“Speaking which, when are you planning to introduce me to your sister?” Wenlang blurts out, Gao Tu looks at him confused “You introduced Shaoyou to her, but not me? Gao Tu, for how long have we known each other? It's not fair”  Gao Tu sighs, what has gotten to him? What was this sudden interest in his personal life?

“You want to meet her?” he nods, of course he wants to, even more he needs to cause a great impression to her “I guess… you can” Wenlang smiles, one step at a time “Wenlang… is okay for you to be away from the office this much?” his smile fades.

“The people I hire are pretty capable of managing anything with or without me. You know it” he says, getting in a more comfortable position in the chair “Or are you trying to kick me out?” Gao Tu shakes his head.

“Is just… I don’t know what to say or do. I thought… you wouldn’t want to see me ever again” he squeezes his own hands, is not that he doesn’t want to see him, in fact he only wanted to see him, it feels awkward.

“Im sorry”  Wenlang lowers his head “I wanted to see you” a loud heart beat, Gao Tu tries to pretend he didn’t feel it, he needs to stay composed “I’ll leave now” he gets up from the chair ready to walk away, but Gao Tu tugging his shirt stops him right away.

“Can we talk about something else?” Gao Tu is certain he doesn't want him to leave, he wants him there with him, but he doesn’t know how to manage it. 

Shen Wenlang sat nodding slowly. It took them time to bring up topics to keep a flowing conversation, but in the end; there were capable of keeping a light, enjoyable conversation. Wenlang received a call from the office requesting his presence in the office he didn’t want to go, but Gao Tu convinced him to attend the matters, Wenlang ended up agreeing to go to the office, but by noon he would be visiting him again he asked him if he wanted to eat anything specific he would bring it to him later.

The alpha kept his word and came back after dealing with the company paperwork that required his signature and some other minor issues, he brought snacks for Gao Tu and they had another nice conversation, by the time Sheng Wenlang returned home Gao Tu realized how empty the room felt. 

At night, Gao Tu was going through his phone reading his coworkers messages wishing him a speedy recovery when he received a message from Shaoyou, he couldn’t read it fast enough so he opened their chat.

Sheng Shaoyou: A-Tu, I’ve been eaten

Gao Tu looks at the screen, confused, what does that even mean? 

Gao Tu: ? 

            Mr. Sheng, are you okay?’

Sheng Shaoyou: Hua Yong isn’t innocent at all

                         He devoured me.

Gao Tu: Huh?? Are you okay?

Sheng Shaoyou: I don’t know.

                        I think I liked it.

He ponders, what does Mr. Sheng mean? Hua Yong devoured him? How? Huh? Oh, OH SO THAT’S WHAT HE MEANS. Gao Tu’s face goes red. 

Chapter Text

The next day Shen Wenlang came to visit him as he promised, but he had to leave around lunch time again to check paperwork at HS Group, while he was away he would text Gao Tu asking what he would like to eat when he goes back. Shaoyou also texted him.

Sheng Shaoyou: I’m sorry I can’t go visit you today.

Gao Tu: It’s fine, are you okay?

Sheng Shaoyou: Hua Yong is taking care of me, though he’s running an errand now. 

                         Im sore, I didn’t even go to the office today  [sigh emoji]

Gao Tu: You are in good hands, I believe secretary Hua is pretty capable.

Sheng Shaoyou: A-tu, he made me like this!

Gao Tu: And he’s taking responsibility.

             [smiling rabbit emoji]

Sheng Shaoyou: Are you my friend or his?

Gao Tu laughs, then he hears the door opening, he looks. He isn’t expecting anyone, Wenlang is supposed to come later and Shaoyou is resting. His breath stops as he sees Hua Yong coming in the room closing the door behind him, he notices his skin is glowier than usual. 

“Hello, secretary Gao” he greets with a smile that makes Gao Tu feel discomfort, he nods and gestures to the chair next to his bed.

“Hello, secretary Hua” Gao Tu tenses, he didn’t even think he would see him here especially after what happened at the office… he had the feeling that maybe Hua Yong didn’t like him at all. 

“How are you feeling, secretary Gao?” Hua Yong's smile wasn’t exactly threatening, he seemed actually happy, but that's precisely why it feels uncanny "I'm not going to take much of your time, just dropped to say hi and thank you” Gao Tu tilts his head softly.

“Why thanking me?” he pulls a smile, a business like one. Hua Yong leans forward in the chair.

“After all you contributed to my goal” he tilts his head giving Gao Tu another smile “At the beginning I thought you had messed up everything and was considering what to do with you. But your intervention turned to be favorable to me” he takes one of Gao Tu’s hands in his “So, as a token of appreciation I’ll cover your and our sister’s treatment expenses” Gao Tu feels cold sweat, he understood what he meant by the sister part, Hua Yong knew that it was the reason Shaoyou suspected him. Gao Tu lets go a nervous laugh.

“I appreciate it, secretary Hua, but I can’t accept it, it's too much, fees are quite expensive” He feels Hua Yong patting his hand a couple of times making him feel shivers down his spine, he tries his best to not react to it.

“Don’t worry, secretary Gao. Is the least I can do after causing you troubles” that. That sounded incredibly fake “And for guiding Mr. Sheng right into my arms back again” that. That sounded more like it. “I hope you can keep supporting Mr. Sheng as a friend” the remark was loud and clear, Gao Tu nodded.

“Gao Tu, I’m back!” Wenlang joined in and sounded cheerful “I finished the urgent paperwork and- Hua Yong?” Wenlang takes a bit to register the scene, Hua Yong was there holding Gao Tu’s hand “What are you doing here?” He sounds defensive  and cautiously gets into the other side of Gao Tu without unlocking his eyes from Hua Yong. His childhood friend smirks, lifts Gao Tu’s hand and places a kiss on the back of his hand, Wenlang and Gao Tu’s eyes widen in shock “Hua Yong!” he yells pulling Gao Tu’s hand out of Hua Yong’s, he doesn’t even seem fazed by it and gets up from his chair.

“I wish you a speedy recovery, secretary Gao” he waves a good bye and leaves. 

“That lunatic!" he yells to the closed door and turns to Gao Tu “Did he do anything to you?”  asks searching for anything unusual in Gao Tu. 

“Im… okay” he is still thinking about Hua Yong’s words.

“That damned Hua Yong” Wenlang brushes Gao Tu’s hand with his fingers, specifically the place where Hua Yong had kissed him “How dares” he keeps mumbling as he rubs Gao Tu’s hand.

Gao Tu wants to protest, but he doesn’t dislike his touch, rather, he likes, it quite a lot. When Wenlang stops rubbing his hand he notices him looking at his hand and feeling it, again, Gao Tu doesn’t reject the contact. Wenlang ends up capturing the back of his hand and interlacing their fingers.

“Would you move in with me?” Gao Tu looks at him lost of words “Tomorrow you are supposed to go home and rest. I… want to take care of you”  again, that loud beat and the warm feeling “I want to be sure you will be properly resting” he continues, part of Gao Tu wants to agree right away, it would be like a dream to live with his long-time crush.

“I… I don't know Wenlang, I don't think it's appropriate" he feels Wenlang squeezing his hand. 

“I don't care if it's appropriate or not” actually it feels right for him, almost like a duty “I just want to take care of you” he takes time to look at Gao Tu, he seems troubled “Just give it a thought” with his free hand he flickers Gao Tu's space in between his eyebrows.

And Gao Tu did, actually, he didn't stop thinking about it even after Wenlang left. Honestly? He couldn't stop imagining how it would be if they were to live together, his head full of questions and it's hard to not think about it, every time he tries to brush those thoughts away, they keep coming back.

Gao Tu: Mr. Sheng. Are you awake?

Sheng Shaoyou: Yeah, what's up? 

Gao Tu writes and stops at mid phrase thinking again if it would be a good idea, but he already texted Shaoyou, might as well get his point of view.

Gao Tu: I’m getting discharged tomorrow and Wenlang asked me to move in with him.

Sheng Shaoyou: [shocked tiger emoji] 

                         WHAT?

                         Did you agree? 

Gao Tu: No, I didn’t give him an answer.

             He said he wants to be sure I’ll be resting. 

Sheng Shaoyou: mmm, do you want to? After all you like him

Gao Tu: That's precisely the problem.

Sheng Shaoyou: What's the problem?

                         Isn't it more like a chance to approach him? 

                         As far as i know he didn’t chase you out for being an omega, did he?

Gao Tu stares at the screen, that was right, but from it to try to pursue Wenlang? He hates omegas, wouldn’t that feed his hate? It could backfire. 

Gao Tu: He didn’t, but I’m not going to pursue him either.

             Just being by his side is enough for me.

Sheng Shaoyou: Does that mean you are moving with him? 

Gao Tu: [troubled rabbit sticker] 

Sheng Shaoyou: Okay, okay. Let that be tomorrow’s A-Tu problem, try to sleep, it’s late.

Gao Tu: [crying rabbit sticker]

            Thanks. 

That night just to try to shake away the thoughts of Wenlang’s proposal he remembered how tightly he held his hand and caressed it to ‘clean’ Hua Yong’s kiss, he definitively took a long time to let go of his hand, but neither of them mentioned it, it was comfortable, warm. Suddenly the image of Hua Yong kissing his hand flashed in his mind, it gave him goosebumps, he definitively was different from the soft spoken and delicate secretary he met, he couldn’t help but feel a bit compassionate about Mr. Sheng.  

The next day before Wenlang came to visit him the doctor had come to instruct the removal of the IV and confirmed his discharge to continue his rest at home and told him he would bring the discharge paperwork when his partner arrives, he couldn't even refute, the doctor was already out. The first thing he did was texting Gao Qing letting her know he was able to visit her that day, he thinks about introducing her to Wenlang, in the past they have seen each other, but never been introduced “properly” despite that, Wenlang would still ask for Xiao Qing’s health time to time. He hears a knock on the door then sees Wenlang entering the room.

“Good morning” he greets. He really kept his words of visiting everyday “So, can you go home today?” Gao Tu nodded.

“Yes, the doctor said it’s okay to stay at home” Wenlang nods and places a bag in the chair next to Gao Tu “What is that?” 

“Oh, I brought you clothes” he admits, way too casual.

“What?” he mumbles, "Wenlang had been surprising a lot these days at the hospital.

“I thought it would be uncomfortable to go home in a suit, wouldn’t it?” he opens the bag and lays them in Gao Tu’s lap, they are new “I think you are a size smaller than me. It's the most comfortable ones I could find” Gao Tu feels his face warm and feels a loud heart beat, again, everytime Wenlang does these things he can’t help it.

“Thank you” mumbles taking them brushing them with his finger tips, the fabric was incredibly soft then looks at Wenlang “I will pay you back, Wenlang” who shakes his head.

“No need. It’s a gift, congratulations for getting discharged” 

Gao Tu had changed clothes and packed his suit on the bag Wenlang had brought with him. The doctor came back with the paperwork and handed him recommendations. Once they left the ward Gao Tu stopped and looked at Wenlang.

“Im going to visit Gao Qing before leaving, do you want to come?” Wenlang smiles.

“Yes” 

Before stopping in Gao Qing’s room Gao Tu said he wanted to get her something, he bought a container with freshly cutted fruits in a shop in the hospital and Wenlang got her flowers in a cart that was next to that shop. 

“Do you really think Xiao Qing will like them?” Wenlang asked as they walked back inside the hospital.

“Yes, Wenlang, is the second time you asked me” indeed, Wenlang had asked him before picking them up and this was the second time “If I didn’t know you I would think you are nervous” Wenlang looked at him.

“I am, a bit” Gao Tu frowns, why would he?

“Is Gao Qing, you have seen her before” yes he had, but back at the time Wenlang wasn’t aware of his own feelings, much less had thought of Gao Qing as a possible family like he did now.

Because lately Shen Wenlang was considering of properly courting Gao Tu, after all he was finally aware of his own feelings which urged him to be by his side, but he doesn’t want to rush things; Gao Tu is recovering and who knows how long it will take until his pheromone gland finally heals, there's also the part of Gao Tu having to adapt to living as an omega after years of living in disguise as a beta using inhibitors daily for years.

“She doesn’t know what happened” Gao Tu says when they reach the hallway “Don’t tell her, okay?” Wenlang just nods and follows Gao Tu “Gao Qing” he says as he enters, Wenlang stays in the hallway for a moment practicing in his head what he's going to say.

“Brother!” she smiles as soon as she sees him “You came” he nods and gets closer, rolls the auxiliary table to her and places the container.

“Brought you some fruit”  she smiles

“Yes! My favorites!” Gao Tu opens the container and unwraps the fork before giving it to her, she picks up a fruit and eats it. Then Wenlang enters; both of the siblings look at him.

“Xiao Qing” he greets, she stares at him and she recognizes him; that slave driver boss that makes her brother work overtime “Get well soon” says as he places the flowers on the table next to the container.

“Thanks” She manages to say a bit confused, why was he there?

“Gao Qing, he’s mr. Shen Wenlang, my boss” oh, her brother was introducing him? Odd, she bows her head softly.

“Nice to meet you” 

Contrary to the image she had from the alpha, he turned out to be quite nice with his words, he asked her what are her plans once she was out from the hospital and she didn’t even realize and she was sharing childhood experiences of her and Gao Tu, like how he would carry her in his back when she fell, or the foods he prepares. She really had a good time talking with him.

“Ah right, brother” she called, he looked at her waiting for her question “How is Mr. Sheng? I thought he would come with you”  Wenlang’s eyebrow twitched, he was in front of her and she asked for that psycho? These siblings are way too similar. 

“Ah, I didn’t ask him. Last time I heard from him he was tired”  he sees her pout shortly.

“Next time bring him too! Wenlang, do you know Mr. Sheng?” both blink, she had suddenly decided to call him Wenlang “He is really nice and easy to get along with. Both of you would be good friends” ah, of course, he feels his eye twitching, Shaoyou is a family friend.

After the visit Gao Tu went to the payment area and the receptionist answered that everything was paid off and covered even after he requested the withdrawal of the previous prepaid money… he doesn’t remember doing it at all, he had planned to do it regardless of what Shaoyou had said if it matters. He freezed, the realization hit him; Hua Yong ended up paying and most likely submitted the withdrawal, wasn’t that… identity theft? He shakes his head, he doesn’t even want to think how he did it.  

“Gao Tu is everything okay?” Wenlang asked after a while, he had been silent all the way from the counter to the entrance of the hospital.

“Is…” he rubs the back of his neck, uncomfortable “Secretary Hua said he would pay my and Gao Qing’s medical expenses… and he actually did. I’m not sure what to do. Should I pay him back?” Gao Tu thinks that by paying Hua Yong it would mean something along the lines of cutting ties off, with his visits and this he truly realized how unpredictable he can be. He hears Wenlang sigh.

“That’s what he went to tell you today?” Gao Tu nods.

“Yes, he said it was a token of appreciation for helping him achieve his goal” Wenlang considers it for a moment, could it be Hua Yong was trying to keep Gao Tu within an arm's reach? He wouldn’t do something shallow like demand him to pay the debt later just to coerce him into doing something, would he? Unfortunately it sounds like something Hua Yong would be capable of doing. But he was on his side, even if it was down to face Hua Yong’s antics, he would do it for Gao Tu, ah and also there's Psychoyou, surely Hua Yong wouldn’t like to make his Mr. Sheng upset.

“Take it. If he even tries to do something or ask you something unreasonable let me know, I’ll deal with him” Gao Tu purses his lips, but ends up nodding “So have you decided?” Gao Tu moves his head to the side “Are you coming with me?”

Gao Tu had given a lot of thought to Wenlang’s offer, he did want to, he really really wanted to, but he didn’t feel like it was appropriate for him to be living with his boss, what if his reputation gets damaged? He can’t allow that.

“I will have to pass, Wenlang. I really appreciate your help, but I still don’t think its appropriate for me to move in with you”

“Gao Tu I told you, I don’t care if its appropriate or not I just-” he is getting frustrated, but he notices in time to cut himself in, he doesn’t want to stress Gao Tu, he just got discharged “Forget it, I’ll drive you to your home, lets go”

The omega gave directions to Wenlang until a certain point where he told him it was okay for him to drop him there, since the streets get narrow and cars can’t get into. Wenlang had been paying attention to the neighborhood, but it didn't seem to be taken care of. When Gao Tu got out of the car he did the same and said he suddenly felt thirsty and a hesitant omega invited him in. Once they reached Gao Tu building Wenlang was shocked, the building seemed to be running down anytime soon.

“I’m really not paying you enough? Why do you live in this godforsaken place?” he blurted out looking at Gao Tu who shaked his head.

“Is not like that” he said making his way up the stairs with Wenlang following “the company pays me well” Wenlang eyes are traveling for the whole building, each wall each door it doesn’t look like the place he thought Gao Tu would live. Before he realizes Gao Tu is opening the door gesturing him to get in.

“Then what is it?” He asks once they are inside.

“Is just… I have a lot of personal expenses” Wenlang frowns. He knows about Xiao Qing health issues and how the fees in the hospital keep growing everyday, but with his salary he should be doing a lot better unless…

“Do you have a gambling addiction? Or is someone threatening to pay protection money?” Gao Tu blinks, amazed by how Wenlang’s brain works, bullseye with the first option, well is not him, but his father’s addiction, he can’t help but chuckle “Hey, im being serious” and thats precisely why is funnier.

“It’s my father's,” he admits, Wenlang tilting his head to both sides, confused.

“I thought your parents had…” he can’t bring himself to complete the question, is most likely going to be uncomfortable to talk about. 

“There are days where I wish he was” the gentle Gao Tu has someone he dislikes and it's his own blood, this was certainly surprising news for Wenlang, but if he considers it; Gao Tu is the only one stepping up for his sister and the dad is good as missing? “He is greedy and has never cared for us” he looks hurt, Gao Tu shifts his look to the floor “But” he lifts his eyes and met Wenlang’s “It’s fine, as long as I can support Gao Qing nothing else matters. Besides he’s not bothering us now” 

His life was going on in front of his eyes, yet he didn’t know the true hardships Gao Tu was struggling with every day and he still managed to be composed everyday, to be professional only like knows how to. He kept his private life and his work life well separated, maybe too much for Wenlang’s liking, but all of that was in order to protect his secret.  

“I’m sorry Wenlang” he mentions after checking a box “I don’t usually have guests over… I don’t have any tea left, water is fine?” Wenlang nods and sees him looking for a glass.

While Gao Tu is busy Wenlang’s eyes wander around the room inspecting, admiring. So this is the place where Gao Tu passes his time when he is not at the office, he takes a few steps still looking around, he notices a rack in the wall with pictures pinned in it, he looks at each of them with detail. Then his eyes run to the upper zone of the apartment, it doesn’t look good, the ceiling is barely painted and he resolves; he has to convince Gao Tu to move with him, at least until he recovers, his eyes keep going on the ceiling while he thinks on a good reason for Gao Tu to agree, his eyes goes over a moldy part of the ceiling and mold? Mold! It's the first time in his life Wenlang feels grateful to see mold. 

“Gao Tu” he calls him as he sees him placing a cup in the table “After all I think you should move in with me” the bunny purses his lips and lowers his gaze “thats mold” Gao Tu looks at him confused and sees him pointing to a part of the ceiling.

Damn, he had been dealing with it by leaving the windows open more often, the apartment tends to be humid  so the days he was out at the hospital was enough for it to grow, it wasn’t even big though, it was almost imperceptible, but  Wenlang had seen it and the chances of changing the mind of someone so stubborn like him were slim. 

“I’ll help you to look out for a better place to stay after you recover, but you can’t stay here” Wenlang was good at offering deals, this one was certainly a good one. Gao Tu ended up giving up and just nodded in defeat “I will help you pack” yes he's not letting this chance go to waste, he won! “You can pack your essentials and I will do the rest, even if we don’t pack everything today I can come back tomorrow to finish packing”.

That's how Gao Tu ended up packing a bag with clothes while Wenlang was packing Gao Tu’s books from the bookshelf in a box, he stumbled into a bottle with a yellow liquid in the label read limey he knows that brand, he always sees is in display, but the logo seemed rather old, he takes it and examines it and nothing comes to him until he’s done putting it on the box he remembers that night on the convenience store; when they were still studying and he had paid for it, leaving it for him to drink… shit, why would Gao Tu keep something like this? He feels his chest compresses then heartbeatings, did this… mean something?

He does his best to calm himself down from going to Gao Tu and hug him. He forces himself to stay in what he’s doing so he grabs the next item, a portrait, the curiosity is bigger than him and he flips it expecting to find a picture of Gao Tu and his sister, but is not. The surprise felt like a punch in the stomach that left him breathless; it was a picture of them when they were younger high school graduates? His fingers go to the picture of them brushing the glass carefully; they really look young. 

“Wenlang Im ready, do you-” when Gao Tu sees it he feels like the world has stopped, his breathing has stopped, his face goes red and prays Wenlang doesn’t think anything deep about it.

“It’s a nice picture” he feels like can breathe properly now, Wenlang comment was liberating.

“Ye-yeah… it-it is” he stutters almost roboticly and goes back to where he was, embarrassed.

The alpha didn’t miss any of the omega’s reactions enjoying them, he refrained from teasing him, even though he really wanted to see how red he could get, he quickly took his phone and took a picture of the frame before putting it in the box and asking Gao Tu if he was ready. They would have to come back the next day to get everything done, regarding Gao Tu’s lease he would talk to his landlord about it, but he wasn’t too worried about it. His thoughts were on how he and Wenlang were going to be living under the same roof. 

Chapter Text

Wenlang’s home felt bigger than ever, Gao Tu had been there several times before helping him pack for a sudden business trip or helping him clean, he isn’t unfamiliar with the place at all, yet the feeling is different. Wenlang had guided him to the guest room that was basically next to his, he couldn’t help but notice how clean it was and the smell of recently washed bed clothes.

“Did you clean by yourself?” He almost teased him, because Gao Tu would help him clean on the weekends from time to time. He notices how Wenlang’s ears get red and holds a chuckle.

“What’s wrong with it? Do you think I can’t do something basic like that by myself?” then Gao Tu chuckles “Gao Tu” he sulks.

“Okay, okay. I won’t say anything” he wanders in the room and opens the window “you did a good job, Wenlang” did compliments always feel this good? Wenlang doesn’t know but he certainly likes it and is getting hungry for more. 

“I will prepare dinner, you better unpack meanwhile” Gao Tu nods and thanks him before he leaves the room.

Once Gao Tu is alone in the room he begins to unpack, when he opens the closet to put his clothes he finds a basket with a towel set, a bathrobe, shampoo and soap in it, he stares, unable to move, slowly he draws his hand closer and feels them; these are real, Shen Wenlang had really prepared them for him which meant he sincere of wanted to take care of him… he had prepared everything despite not knowing he might refuse to take his offer. Ah, Gao Tu feels his face getting warm and hears his own heartbeats, they are way too loud. Wenlang’s actions are making him fall in love with him over and over, despite his efforts for not getting carried away, he can’t help but feel a bit hopeful. 

In the kitchen Wenlang was preparing everything carefully, doing multiple taste tests, he wanted to make sure that the welcoming meal or rather their first meal living together was perfect enough to be a reason so Gao Tu doesn’t consider moving out any time soon. Was it too desperate? Yes, yes it was. But the funny part is that Wenlang doesn’t even consider his actions as formally courting Gao Tu; according to his logic he is just being attentive and taking care of his dear guest; Gao Tu.

He sets the table and moves the bowls not one, not two, not even three times, but until he gets satisfied and takes a picture of the set up, he’s definitively saving that under a folder with password named cohab with Tutu, just setting up the folder is enough to make him draw a goofy smile. He hears a door closing behind him and turns to it.

“Tutu, food is ready” it was a slip, he didn’t really mean to call him by that nickname, well at least not this early. Wenlang freezes and feels his smile fading out while he stares at Gao Tu waiting for reaction who is also frozen in his place with the hand in the door handle, but is the first one reacting; he blinks and nods.

“A-ah, yes, I will go wash my hands” he quickly moves to the bathroom.

After he doesn't see Gao Tu, Wenlang finally lets the air out and squats, his ears feeling hot. It was embarrassing, way too embarrassing, but at least Gao Tu didn’t seem bothered by it, surprised? Yes, very surprised, but not bothered by it… so he can keep calling him like that, right? 

“Wenlang?” He is startled by Gao Tu’s voice and incorporates himself quickly.

“I was picking up my phone, I dropped it by accident. Here, sit” he curses himself, he spoke way too fast, obviously Gao Tu will suspect something, but he doesn't comment on it and just sits. Wenlang follows and looks at him, and notices the way he is staring at the food with sparkly eyes.

“Thanks for the food” says before taking a bite, as always his ears perk up a bit when he’s happy, he had liked the food Wenlang had prepared and he knew it before Gao Tu said anything. Wenlang didn’t eat right away, was too focused waiting for Gao Tu’s reaction "Is delicious”  he can feel it, he’s going to get addicted to Gao Tu’s compliments. 

They spent the meal talking about how Wenlang prepared it, his techniques, and step by step, it was truly enjoyable, the food was really good. After they finished Gao Tu offered himself to do the dishes and Wenlang refused stating he was a guest and moreover he needed to rest like the doctor had said, but Gao Tu could be persistent as well. It ended with Gao Tu doing the dishes while Wenlang was drying them up with a dishcloth next to him. 

Wenlang had been thinking about Gao Tu’s reaction to the nickname during dinner and the doubt still lingers, he really doesn't mind being called Tutu by him? After he did it accidentally he didn’t mention it again during dinner.

“Tutu” he says and sees how Gao Tu startles and struggles to hold the bowl he was cleaning in his hands, thats a really good reaction “Tutu” he calls again and notices how his face tints in pink “Tutu” tries again Gao Tu is silent but he is really expressive. “Tu…tu” Gao Tu glares him.

“What?” is not usual for him to get annoyed, Wenlang finds himself enjoying this new reaction he hadn’t seen from him.

“Nothing” Wenlang takes it as a victory and as he is allowed to call him like that. 

Once they had finished cleaning the dishes Wenlang told Gao Tu they could be back to finishing packing his apartment anytime he felt like just needed to tell him. In all honesty Wenlang wanted to rush the full move, the sooner the better, but he needs to be considerate with the bunny. Wenlang had told him he would be adjusting some paperwork in his office at the end of the hallway, but if he needed anything to let him know.

Gao Tu had taken a bath and was now lying in the bed staring at the ceiling, as he was convincing himself he was actually there. Then Wenlang calling him Tutu popped in his head, the first time he heard it he couldn’t believe his ears, in all this time he had never called him in a different way that wasn’t Gao Tu or secretary Gao… and he didn’t dislike it at all, it just… made him feel embarrassed. What was that when they were doing the dishes? Was he testing his patience? Wenlang can actually act like a child. He feels his phone buzz and takes it; is a message from Shaoyou.

Shen Shaoyou: Hi, how was the first day out of the hospital?

Gao Tu: It wasn’t bad at all. I already had dinner, just resting. 

Shen Shaoyou: Great, when can I visit you?

                       Send me your address.

Gao Tu: I moved. I'm not sure if I can have visitors over.

Shen Shaoyou: Moved? Where? Outside the city?

                       WAIT DONT TELL ME

                      Did you agree to move in with Wenlang?

Gao Tu felt his face warm, it was embarrassing. 

On the other side of the hallway, Shen Wenlang was actually checking his e-mails. He hadn’t shown up at the office at all that day and needed to check some documents. He was concentrating on the document when he listened to his phone. A notification, it's from psychoyou, he immediately frowns, but opens the message anyway.

Psychoyou: Have me over. 

Wenlang narrows his eyes, what's wrong with him? He pretends to ruin his peace with his bunny? Not a chance 

Shen Wenlang: No, go away.

Psychoyou: Come on, host me. I want to see my friend.

Shen Wenlang: Huh? Tutu told you he moved with me? 

He had used the nickname just to show off, but if someone asked him, no he did not.

Psychoyou: Tutu? Why you calling him like that

                  Did he even allow it?

Shen Wenlang: Yes, Tutu allowed it. That’s all?

Psychoyou: Hey, come on, have me over. Let me see my friend.

Shen Wenlang: Go away, don’t meddle in our time together.

Psychoyou: Did you ask him out? 

Shen Wenlang: [wolf glaring sticker]

Psyochoyou: Of course you haven’t, I would know if you did.

Shen Wenlang: I’m not changing my mind, don’t come.

 

Then silence from Sheng, he wasn't even typing or sending him stickers. Wenlang took it as a victory and went back reading his document when he received a call from the office.

“President Shen. We have received a call from ShengFang Bio’s secretary asking for an urgent meeting for tomorrow morning, will you be able to attend?” that psycho! He wanted to ruin their time together one way or another, he gritted his teeth.

“I’ll call you back with an answer” said and went to Sheng’s chat.

Shen Wenlang: What's wrong with you?? scheduling meetings now?! 

                      Don’t be a pain in the ass.

Psychoyou: Come on, just have me over.

                  It's not like I’m asking much.

                  If you agree I’ll cancel the really long, long, long and important meeting I was planning to have with you.

That stubborn alpha was settled in annoying them, he knows it is almost impossible to negotiate with him so he decides to risk everything and dials Hua Yong’s number.

“What do you want?” He's welcoming, as always.

“Hey! Can’t you control your alpha? He is insisting on coming over to see Gao Tu!” he hears a soft hmmm from the other line.

“Actully is not a bad idea” Wenlang gasps, how did it backfire? Knowing him he wouldn’t leave his hands off that alpha for anything “Specially if it's something Mr. Sheng wants. Whatever Mr. Sheng wants, I want it too, right Mr. Sheng?” he hears a chuckle. It sounds like Shaoyou. 

“You psychopathic couple can’t just leave us alone?!” he brushes his hairs exasperated, he wanted to spend their first day together watching movies cozying up on the sofa and probably eating something, well maybe his imagination ran a little bit wild planning to be cozy, but he did want to spend time only with him that’s why he was making sure to not have nothing important tomorrow!

“We will be there for lunch, Wenlang. Thanks for having us” Hua Yong hangs up, which only fueled his frustration, these two are going to make him age faster. A speedrun to retirement.

Shen Wenlang: Cancel that damn meeting.

Psychoyou: So, what’s for lunch?

Shen Wenlang: Shut up and be punctual.

Psychoyou: [laughing tiger emoji] 

Then he receives a call from the office informing him the meeting had been canceled. He cursed the couple under his breath. 

Back in Gao Tu’s room he sees a message from Shaoyou who had gone oddly quiet after he had confirmed to him he had indeed moved in with Wenlang. 

Sheng Shaoyou: I'm visiting tomorrow, any cake flavor you like? 

After talking with Shaoyou, Gao Tu wondered what the next day would be like, maybe he could try preparing breakfast for the both of them, he would have to set up an alarm to be ready and… wake up right away… He ended up falling asleep without setting an alarm.

The next morning only the brightness of the sun woke him up, Gao Tu felt disoriented at the beginning, the sleep had been great, the kind of sleep you can’t get in a hospital bed. Gao Tu moved slowly to the night stand and checked his phone, it was 9 A.M. way too late for him and for Wenlang, he woke up from bed grabbing his glasses and ran outside the bedroom to the kitchen where he found Wenlang making breakfast. 

“Huh?” he mumbled, Wenlang turned to him and smiled, he had seen Gao Tu’s bed hair.

“Good morning, Tutu” Gao Tu nodded and tried to brush his hair with his hands.

“Good morning” he says in a low voice looking what Wenlang was doing “I thought you would be at the office” 

“No, they don’t need me there today. There's nothing important scheduled” he felt tempted to say that he wasn’t going because he wanted to take care of him, but he knows if he says that Gao Tu will most likely make him go to the office “I knocked earlier, I think you were deep in sleep, thought I would wake you up when breakfast was ready” Gao Tu nodded a bit confused, still it was pretty late for him to wake him up around 9, maybe he also overslept? “Go wash your face, it’s almost ready” 

Truth to be told, Shen Wenlang had indeed overslept, but that was it because the psychotic couple held him back from finishing his work earlier. After he had hanged up Hua Yong had sent him a list of things Mr. Sheng disliked food, then annoyed him with texts.

Lunatic: So when are you getting your wife?

Shen Wenlang: Why are you so interested now?

                       Don’t you only worry about that Sheng bastard?

Lunatic: Don’t you dare calling him like that [knife emoji] 

             Secretary Gao is his friend, therefore all of Mr. Sheng's closest friends are my friends too.

Shen Wenlang: So I'm not your friend after all what you made me do?

Lunatic: Alleged friend.

Shen Wenlang: You’re an ass.  

Lunatic: You already lured the rabbit to the wolf’s lair and you’re not going to do anything?

             Don’t tell me you don’t know how to seduce someone.

             Shen Wenlang, are you that pure?

Shen Wenlang: Good heavens, what’s wrong with you? 

                      Lunatic.

                      Psycho.

                      I’m not going to take advantage of a sick person.

                      I’m not like you.

Lunatic: I have never done such a thing.

Shen Wenlang: It's just a matter of time.

Lunatic: Wow that's how you see me?

             Me, your good friend?

Shen Wenlang: [Rolling eyes emoji] 

                       Alleged good friend.

When Gao Tu came back the table was already settled and Wenlang had already managed to sneak a picture of the table, to his surprise, Gao Tu took a picture of the breakfast. Wenlang waited for the perfect moment where Gao Tu wasn’t paying attention and managed to snip a picture of Gao Tu eating the breakfast he had prepared. Being just the two of them It’s blissful, unfortunately there’s a psycho couple awaiting to interrupt their peace.

Chapter Text

After breakfast Wenlang mentioned Hua Yong and Shaoyou would be coming over to have lunch, he didn’t seem really excited about it, in fact, it seemed Wenlang hated the idea, but he didn’t have any other choice. Wenlang told him he would be going out to get ingredients for a lunch of four, he actually insisted to Gao Tu to stay at home and rest while he handled it, but he didn’t agree, he wanted to go and accompany him, Shen Wenlang ended up agreeing, but under the condition if he felt tired he would be sended back home immediately.

But nothing of that happened, Gao Tu seemed quite happy to be in the store with him going around the alleys and the shelves, they came up with a good menu for lunch as they walked by the alleys. Having conversations like that was oddly comfortable and homey.

“Do you know if any of them have any preferences in foods?” had asked Gao Tu as he went through the sauces. Wenlang immediately has an idea and smirks “Mr. Hua won’t be happy if you try tricking them” his smile vanishes.

“No idea” 

Wenlang was the one mainly pushing the cart, he let the handle go to take an item from a higher shelf, Gao Tu went to  his side to push the car a little further to make it comfortable for Wenlang to pick the item, he places the item in the cart and as he keeps looking at the self as places his hands on the handle, however, one of his hands lands in Gao Tu’s. The alpha flinches, but doesn’t move his hand, Gao Tu didn’t protest or move his hand either. 

In Gao Tu’s mind he knew it was an accident and was expecting Wenlang to remove his hand right away, but he didn’t. It didn’t take much for Gao Tu to feel embarrassed enough and ended up pulling his hand away as he pretended to look in a different shelf, he stared at his own hand, he could still feel his lingering warmth. 

On the ride back home Wenlang kept thinking about how Gao Tu removed his hand, he seemed shy and ran away, almost hopping away like a bunny. He did feel dejected after Gao Tu moved, but after seeing the way he acted, he couldn’t help but feel glad. Gao Tu is conscious about him.  

As soon as they entered home Gao Tu went directly to wash his hands, after all Wenlang had the bags with him after refusing to give them to him. When he got back; the ingredients were already on the counter, Gao Tu took one apron and put it on under Wenlang’s eyes.

“Ah, Tutu, what are you doing?” Gao Tu looked at him tilting his head with a smile.

“Helping you cook” Wenlang was ready to protest but Gao Tu didn’t let him “It’s because of me they are visiting, the least I can do is help you cook, Wenlang”.

The alpha sighs, there's no way he can convince him otherwise. Thus they cook together, Wenlang can’t help but have his eyes wander on Gao Tu’s frame; he looks at his face, eyes, nose, lips, and keeps going to his jaw. Everything looks incredibly and irresistibly kissable… he shakes his head softly, he can’t allow these thoughts, not when he is with him this dangerously close at least. But honestly? Is tempting, his cherry blossom colored lips are really tempting. 

“Wenlang, is something wrong?” he sounded uncharacteristically low, yet Shen Wenlang didn’t hear him, he had inclined his head towards Gao Tu’s and was staring at his lips really close.

The shape of Gao Tu’s lips was perfect, his cupid brow was fascinating and alluring, it was almost like they were enchanting Wenlang, inciting him into getting closer. He feels them, briefly, with his own lips, Gao Tu’s lips are incredibly soft is something he had never experienced before. Wenlang slides a hand by the side of Gao Tu’s neck, his thumb resting on his cheek brushing it softly as he looks at his face; Gao Tu’s eyes are wide open. The lingering feeling of the softness of his lips makes Wenlang lean in again; feeling them again, longer. When he pretends to part away, he feels Gao Tu corresponding his kiss, he wraps his waist with his free arm and pulls him in, closer and deeper.  He can feel Gao Tu’s muffled shaky, breath. They break this lips apart, but stay close looking to each other’s face, Gao Tu’s lips were slightly parted and his cheeks are tinted in pink, Wenlang, in the other hand, looks hungry and keeps his eyes glued to Gao Tu’s lips, his thumb gently brushes his bottom lip before leaning in again, before he can even feel his lips a loud sound interrupts them; it’s a call, Wenlang looks at his phone that was resting farther in the counter kitchen and turns back to Gao Tu ready to lean in again.

“Pick it up” Gao Tu mumbles, the wolf shakes his head.

“I don’t want to” Gao Tu puts a hand in Wenlang’s arms that was holding his face.

“It could be important” they hear the call die, still engrossed in each other's faces.

“Not more than this” mumbles, then his phone rings again its the sound of notifications falling in. He sighs annoyed, pulls Gao Tu in and kisses his forehead before parting “What is it?” he growls picking it up, planning in his head how to murder whoever had the audacity of interrupting them. It’s from the office, he sighs even more frustrated now, they are requesting his approval for a new budget “Is from the office. I will check that damned document in my study and I will be back” he sees Gao Tu who had fingers over his parted lips nodding, damn cute. Wenlang doesn’t want to go, but a new message from the office annoys him further and quickly moves to his study.

Gao Tu was almost in trance reviving the kiss all over again and again, Shen Wenlang had kissed him and he had kissed him back. It was real, it had happened. He feels his face getting warmer and tries to remember how it happened, he was chopping carrots then Wenlang was in his face kissing him and pulling him over, it had been smooth, waaay too smooth. Questions began to fill Gao Tu, mainly ‘what does it mean?’ ‘Did he mean it?’ ‘Did he kiss him by mistake?’ so many questions he doesn’t even want to think about, he sighs, shakes his head and tries to focus back on the food. Yes, the food, lunch… guests… yes they are having guests coming over. Focus, he needs to focus. 

In his study Wenlang checked the document annoyed and sent it back almost immediately, he was ready to get up and go back to the kitchen when the realization hit him; he had kissed Gao Tu out of spur of the moment ignoring his courting plan which he hadn’t even set in motion, his hands were on his face sliding down slowly. He really went and did it. By any means he did not regret it nor dislike it, it felt good, just remembering is enough for him to want to run there and kiss Gao Tu all over. Shen Wenlang didn’t meant to kiss his little bunny this early on, he had a plan, a courting plan for when Gao Tu’s health were better and he had just screwed up all because he was tempted by his lips… that have a beautiful color and are perfectly shaped… ah what if he just go to Gao Tu and just confess? Gao Tu didn’t reject him, even more, he kissed him back. What if he just asks him out right now… it should be good, shouldn’t it? They could spend the whole day toget- the guests, the psychopathic couple. Wenlang curses and gets up in defeat, the whirlwinds haven’t even arrived yet and he is already tired. 

Wenlang walks up to the kitchen, but before even going in he peeks his head in looking for Gao Tu who is pulling a pot out of a cabinet, the alpha nods and breathes in before going inside. 

“Need help?” he asks as he approaches, he sees Gao Tu’s back startling and doesn’t comment on it.

“Ah, you are back?” Gao Tu asks without looking at him, placing the pot on the counter “Everything alright?”

“Yes, everything is alright now, what do I do?” he asks to get to his side without taking his eyes off him.

“Uh, could you grab the pan?” Gao Tu sounds composed, but his stiff movements tell Wenlang all he needs to know.

“Sure”

Wenlang considered a lot of times to bring up the topic while they cooked, but words never came out. He was only capable of having conversations about the food they were preparing, nothing else. By the time food was ready they had time enough to change clothes when the doorbell rang, Wenlang went to open up the door while Gao Tu was preparing the plates and bowl to serve the food. 

“See Wenlang? Punctual” amazing, he had just seen Shaoyou and he already managed to annoy him, he rolled his eyes and immediately felt a looming presence. 

“Hello Wenlang” greeted Hua Yong, he had with him a box.

“Welcome” he let them in and noticed Shaoyou had brought a bouquet with him “flowers?” the arrangement was beautiful with flowers more in the pastel side of colors 

“Yes? To congratulate Gao Tu’s discharge” he mentions as it is obvious, Wenlang is about to mention the flowers he brought this time being different from the ones he gave Gao Tu at the hospital but Shaoyou continues “Hua Yong picked them, aren’t they pretty?” Wenlang pursed his lips and agreed.

“Yeah, they are” he closes the door behind him after the couple had entered.

“Where’s A-Tu?” 

“At the kitchen” Wenlang mentions as he guides them in.

“Woah, Wenlang, I can't believe it. You, making a sick person work? Unforgivable” Hua Yong was definitively getting back at him for that text, he narrows his eyes and looks at him.

“Oh come on, I’m taking care of Tutu, he just helped me cook” Hua Yong smiles satisfied by his reaction. 

“A-Tu” Shaoyou calls Gao Tu, who was placing glasses on the table. 

“Mr. Sheng, hello” he smiles, cordial, like always.

“Here, congrats for your discharge” he extends the flowers to Gao Tu who receives them immediately “Hua Yong picked them” Gao Tu tenses a bit.

“Thank you, they are beautiful” he takes a moment to look at the flowers on the arrangement “Mr. Hua has a really good taste” 

“Glad you like them, secretary Gao” Hua Yong smiles “we also brought cake” he shows the box and turns to Wenlang “here, take it” 

“Oh, thank you” Gao Tu’s ears perked up subtly at the sight of the box. Wenlang takes the box and walks to the kitchen with it 

“Where are my thanks, Wenlang?” Wenlang turned his head to Hua Yong and gave him a dirty look.

“Thank you” mumbled, Hua Yong smiled at him.

“Soo, what's for lunch?” said Shaoyou rather shamelessly. 

“Ah, I will serve right away. Please take a seat” he made his way to the kitchen counter just to be turned around by Wenlang “huh?”

“Go sit, I'll do it” Shaoyou lifted an eyebrow and pretended he didn't see it.

“I can help” Gao Tu mumbled and that was enough to let him help.

Hua Yong and Shayou observed the scene in silence and occasionally sharing looks; Shen Wenlang serving food and Gao Tu taking them to the table, seemed pretty natural, but it was weird for them to see the powerful Wenlang doing that, even more the tone he had been using with Gao Tu was completely different he uses with them… it was soft, from the man that usually yells and demands he had gone… soft?  Was that… the effect of Gao Tu in him or just a hopeless lovesick wolf? or maybe both? It was interesting how the realization of love was affecting Wenlang.

Once everything was ready Gao Tu paid attention to the guests reaction to the food before even taking a bite by himself, Wenlang was sitting next to him and in front of them was Shaoyou and Hua Yong. Once they were done eating they were making small talk, at some point Wenlang feels oddly observed and he notices Hua Yong looking at him; when their eyes met Hua Yong smirked and subtly showed him how he was holding hands with a distracted Shaoyou who was talking with Gao Tu who was also very invested in their conversation, Wenlang gives Hua Yong a dirty look before placing his hand over Gao Tu's who didn't even realized his hand was being held and smiles victorious. 

Hua Yong stares at him, frowning, confused. But that expression soon erased,  he had an idea.

“Mr Sheng, secretary Gao” he calls them both of them look at him “you can keep your conversation in the living room. Me and Wenlang will do the cleaning. "The tender smile Hua Yong pulled was a little bit off putting, it was genuine, but still felt like a trick of a fox. 

Gao Tu nodded and agreed, he got up ready to guide Shaoyou to the living room as he inadvertently removed his hand from Wenlang's who had his eyes on their, recently, parted hands.

“I catch you up right away” mentioned Shaoyou who followed Gao Tu with his eyes, once he had turned his back to them he immediately looks at Wenlang, lifted the hands he was holding with Hua Yong and placed a kiss on top of his hand before smirking as he lets it go and getting up to join Gao Tu.

The range of emotions they saw Shen Wenlang go through was truly amusing, annoying him was truly the best, great and free entertainment. 

“You are not dating secretary Gao, are you?” Hua Yong asked Wenlang when he brought a pile of plates to hand them over to him.

“No” he admits through his teeth. 

“Then what was that? are you jealous of me and Mr. Sheng?” he teases, the wolf sighs.

“What were your intentions in the first place? showing off?” Hua Yong chuckles.

“Just show you what you can't have if you don't start getting things done” he rinses a plate and leaves it on the rack to continue with the next one “if you take too long someone else might take him away” he continues pressing Wenlang's buttons, it clearly worked, he can hear it in his voice.

“I don't know what you mean, we kissed” Hua Yong stops his motion and turns to look at him and looks at him with inquisitive eyes.

“That's all?” Wenlang blinks.

“What do you mean ‘'that's all’?” Wenlang takes a second to think what he means "I'm not going to take advantage of a sick person”

“But you already did,” Wenlang gasps, offended.  “What have you prepared to make secretary Gao stay after his recuperation ends?” Wenlang shakes his head.

“Haven't thought that far away, he just moved in yesterday, he still has some things in his old place we have to get and has to deal with his lease too” Hua Yong wonders for a bit moving his head side to side.

“Ah” he gets an idea “Why don't you get that place?”  Wenlang frowns, Hua Yong knows that expression; he doesn't get it. He rolls his eyes “If it were Mr. Sheng I would buy the whole building where he plans to live at or his old building, depending if Mr. Sheng were to go live somewhere else, I would buy the whole old building and renovate it to his taste and as his new landlord would invite him back to get a new lease” for some reason this crazy idea sounded perfectly normal to Wenlang, but he doesn’t want to admit it, something sounds off, but he can't quite put his finger on it. 

In the living room, Shaoyou and Gao Tu were involved in a lively conversation. Gao Tu was sitting on an individual couch while Shaoyou was on the sofa.  Gao Tu had mentioned to him how Wenlang was when he met his sister. He also told him Gao Qing wanted to see him again soon, he nodded and agreed to go visit her anytime soon. After talking about Gao Qing, Shaoyou fell silent, it was a loud reflective silence that Gao Tu picked up immediately.

“Is anything wrong?” he asks and notices how Shaoyou's eyes darken.

“Can I… ask you an omega question?” Gao Tu purses his lips, thinking so far Mr. Sheng had been really respectful with him and hasn't treated him differently after learning he was an omega. He ends up nodding his head. He sees Shaoyou leaning closer to him. It seems it was supposed to be a secret “by any chance… do you know if there's a chance that …. omegas can get their alpha partners pregnant?” 

Gao Tu's body paralyzes due to shock, his mouth suddenly drops, Mr. Sheng seemed preoccupied and shy at the same time with his ears red. It takes a moment or two for Gao Tu to recover, first he blinks one time repeating his question in his mind, then he repeats it again in his head.

“Are you… expecting?” he manages to ask, it was definitively not in his lunch plan having to hear such a question. Shaoyou shakes his head.

“No!”he holds himself from yelling ”It's not like that, but I'm concerned. I couldn't find much information about it. Don't tell Hua Yong“ Gao Tu shakes his head.

“I wont, I wont” then he pauses “I will ask my doctor the next time I have a check up” Shaoyou nods.

“Thanks, A-Tu”

Back in the kitchen Hua Yong ears twitches, and moves his head towards the living room, Wenlang catches him doing that movement.

“What's wrong?” Hua Yong stares at him, clearly Wenlang didn’t hear anything.

“Nothing, I just heard something interesting” he rinses the last dish, finally being done with them.

“Right… have you told Shaoyou that you are not an omega yet?” Hua Yong gives him a death glare “I guess you haven't”

“Is not the moment, yet” he dries his hand with a kitchen towel “Mr. Sheng has his reservations, but he was the one turning the game around” So what he meant was… since not everything was going according to his plans the order of revealing information has changed too, of course assuming he had planned to tell him at some point. 

Sheng Shaoyou had been really frontal to take him in and agreeing to officially date, but of course he wouldn't tell anyone yet, he wanted to keep enjoying with Mr. Sheng a ‘shared secret’, but it seems he had revealed it, unaware, to Gao Tu by indirectly calling him partner. Since Hua Yong moved into Shaoyou's house he could barely keep his hands to himself, Shaoyou was mostly receptive to his advances, almost never rejecting him. He never suspected he would be concerned in that regard, but, what Shaoyou had said to Gao Tu had him thinking; if they, somehow, manage to have a child, would that mean he would be receiving half or Mr. Sheng attention?

“Stop pouting, is gross” Hua Yong darts a glare to Wenlang who is looking at him with a gross expression and unamused. 

“Shut up. Bring the cake, let’s slice it there” Wenlang rolled his eyes and brewed tea “Oh so you can actually be a decent host” Wenlang just looked at him before shaking his head. 

Hua You brought a tea pot with tea cups on a tray while Wenlang bringed another tray with the cake, plates, knife and forks placed on the coffee table. Their time together flew by, the cake was great and the conversation flowed pretty well, most of the time it was either of the couple teasing, with subtle skinship between them, Wenlang who had sat with them on the couch had to bear it all regretting every moment of it. 

The couple left before the sunset allowing Wenlang to finally feel comfortable in his house again, it was amazing how fast these two could drain him. After they close the door he sees Gao Tu walking in the direction of the kitchen.

“What are you doing Tutu?” He follows and sees him putting the apron back again.

“Im going to do the dishes” Wenlang stops him with a hand in his shoulder.

“Wait, no need I can do it. Give it to me”  Gao Tu looks at him dubious, he sighs, he knows what Gao Tu is thinking “You can dry them up if you want” then is when he receives the apron. 

Mostly they cleaned in silence, he noticed his bunny was lost in thoughts and left him be, maybe he was still thinking about that kiss they shared in this kitchen a few hours ago. Yes it could be that, he hopes. 

“Wenlang” he hears his name and mutters a hmm, Gao Tu sounding a bit absent minded continues “Do you know if an omega can get an alpha pregnant?” The cup Wenlang had in his hand suddenly slips and falls into the sink making a loud sound but not shattering. He slowly crooks his head towards Gao Tu.

What was the question again? If an omega can make an alpha pregnant? Was Gao Tu interested in that way? The idea of a dominant Gao Tu flashes in his head, he doesn't dislike it and feels his face warm, he shakes his head. No, no, it can’t be, Gao Tu probably has a different reason to ask him that, right? 

“Wh-why are you asking me that, Tutu?” Gao Tu looked at him with his eyes widened, he just realized what he said. 

“I-I was thinking in what  Mr. Sheng said” he blurts out with his face getting red. Ah of course it had to be them, Wenlang curses them in his head and sighs.

“I… don’t really know”

They continued with the dishes rather in awkward silence, both in their respective heads thinking about what had just happened. Wenlang's thoughts were repeating the question again and again, he tried to think of something different, but his brain kept coming back to the same thing, omegas and alphas… There is where he realizes; he had been thinking in Gao Tu as Gao Tu and not just as an omega and that's how he knows; it doesn’t matter what he is, he will love Gao Tu regardless. 

Meanwhile Gao Tu was mentally scolding himself for his carelessness, his question had made things awkward and he couldn’t think on ways to start a new conversation to change the atmosphere, but nothing came to his head, in fact, their kiss had suddenly popped in his head as he was desperately trying to come up with anything. Gao Tu gives up, now there's two scenes repeating non stop in his head.

Once they were done cleaning the kitchen, Wenlang turned to Gao Tu.

“Do you want to watch a movie?” honestly he had been thinking on it for awhile after his thoughts diverted from his last realization. He notices Gao Tu hesitating for a bit but ends up nodding. 

“Yes, why not?” Wenlang smiles. 

“Bring a blanket, I will prepare snacks” Gao Tu tilts his head. Why a blanket? He thinks, but his mouth doesn’t open. “Don’t you get cold easily?” Gao Tu was surprised that Wenlang had noticed it before. He nodded.

Once Wenlang had prepared the snacks he headed to the living where he found Gao Tu sitting on the sofa with a fluffy white blanket, it was one of the things he had previously prepared for Gao Tu’s room aside from the care package he left on the wardrobe. Wenlang can't help but smile, ah this feeling surely is nice, just the two of them at home. The TV was turned on at the main page of a streaming service, Wenlang turns off the ceiling lights, he sits next to Gao Tu leaving a reasonable distance between the two of them, he wishes to be closer though, but doesn’t want to push Gao Tu’s comfort zone, so he conforms with this. 

It didn’t take them much to choose a movie and around thirty minutes in he feels a weight in his shoulder, he turns and sees Gao Tu’s head resting in his shoulder, he has fallen asleep. Wenlang fights to not smile at the sight and carefully accommodates Gao Tu in his chest wrapping one of his arms around his bunny before covering him with the blanket. 

It could have been the lack of sleep he had the night before, or it could have been the annoying couple had drained his energy, or the peaceful and steady breath of Gao Tu soothing him, or all of them. Whatever the reason was, it made Wenlang fall asleep shortly after holding Gao Tu in his arms. 

Chapter Text

The next morning Gao Tu woke up slowly, it’s been awhile since he had slept so well, for the first time after awhile he felt refreshed after waking up. He lazily opened his eyes then shut them again before even focusing and snuggled rubbing his cheek to the… pillow? It felt too warm to be a pillow, he lifts up his head and finds Wenlang barely holding back a smile and ends up letting go a soft chuckle as he covers his mouth while Gao Tu tries to not meet his eyes, flustered.  

Had he… fell asleep during the movie? but how did he end up laying on top of Wenlang? Did they sleep through the whole night like this? He feels his face burning and tries to not look at him. He incorporates his head and looks around pretending to look around the room, glasses, yes, he… needed his glasses. 

“What are you looking for?” he hears Wenlang asking, but doesn't meet his eyes. To Wenlang; Gao Tu looked like a bunny peeking out his head from his warren watching out for predators or a potential danger. 

“M-my glasses” he doesn’t even try to look at him, he feels utterly embarrassed. 

“Here, look at me,Tutu” Wenlang had taken them from the coffee table, Gao Tu had stopped looking for them and turned slowly to face Wenlang “there you go” 

Before he could even extend his hand to take them Wenlang was placing the glasses on Gao Tu’s face then slid a hand on Gao Tu’s face brushing his cheek with his thumb, looking, appreciating his features. Ah, this had to be happiness. Wenlang places a short kiss on Gao Tu’s lips and then hugs him pressing him more to his body, he puts his nose in Gao Tu’s neck smelling the faint sage aroma, it soothes him, like his warmth does.

“I love you” Wenlang whispers. Gao Tu incorporates sitting quickly on the sofa. Wenlang incorporates under Gao Tu’s shocked face “What's wrong?” he asks rather lively. but for Gao Tu this doesn't adds up, is too sudden, feels out of nowhere... or is it? certainly Wenlang doesn't seem the type to be fooling around, heck, in the years he had known him Wenlang basically only had his eyes on a the goal of expanding HS Group and nothing else. 

“What did you just say?” His voice sounds a bit shaken up. Wenlang tilts his head.

“I love you, Tutu” he repeats, unshakable, determined. 

Wenlang had woken up earlier than Gao Tu that morning and spent that time guarding Gao Tu’s sleep detailing his features, his eyebrows, his eyelashes, his nose… his lips, Gao Tu’s lips have a really beautiful shape, his cupid arc is perfectly round, heart shaped. His thoughts had kept diverting thinking about how it felt spending time together, it hadn't been much time living together, but everything felt right, like it had always been like that. He can’t help but compare the times he came back from the office to be alone there; the times he would randomly text Gao Tu even without a good reason or even videocall him during his business trips because he felt lonely. Just how blind he had been? Always looking for an excuse to talk with him, to see him because when Gao Tu was with him he felt at peace, calm, at home coming up with a resolution.  

The resolution? screw his courting plan he's not using it anymore, well not completely. He can’t wait to tell him how he feels for him, he needs to make Gao Tu aware of his feelings, his intentions. He is confident he has good chances and even if it was against the odds, he would do anything to court him and have him by his side, he needs Gao Tu. 

“But I'm an omega” Gao Tu replies ashamed of himself.

“So?” he is unfazed, he had already realized he would love him anyway. It doesn’t matter if he is a beta or an omega, that doesn’t change his feelings. 

“You hate us” he lowers his gaze. He has heard Wenlang’s hate comments towards omegas for so long, each of them hurt him, it’s been so long like this. Wenlang takes one of Gao Tu’s hands in his.

“Tutu, look at me” Gao Tu does it “I can’t possibly ever hate you. Even if you are an omega, I still love you” Gao Tu feels his heart ache.

Shen Wenlang is telling him he loves him and sounds very genuine there's not a single shadow of doubt in him. Gao Tu remembers all the times he wanted to give up his love for Wenlang, but ultimately never could, part of his naive heart was still hopeful for Wenlang’s affection, not even his love, but his affection. He was willing to be by his side the longest his heart would allow him, even if his feelings weren't reciprocated. Gao Tu feels Wenlang's hands in his face, he is brushing off tears he wasn't aware were sliding in his face. 

“I… want you to be with me” Wenlang continues “Please, be by my side” Gao Tu places his own hands on Wenlang’s and nods softly. Wenlang let his forehead meet Gao Tu’s “Thank you” then he moves and leans to kiss Gao Tu’s lips “I swear I will make you happy” 

Wenlang captures Gao Tu’s lips in a tender and a slow peaced kiss, Gao Tu was kissing him back allowing himself to feel all the emotions; that long timed unrequited love was finally becoming requited, there was no need to try giving up anymore, no more bitterness in the nights where he wished he could just stop loving him, Wenlang had turned all those feelings upside down in the best way possible.  

After the kiss Gao Tu’s back was leaning against Wenlang’s chest, they were still on the sofa, cuddling. Wenlang was playing with Gao Tu’s hands trailing his fingers one by one as they were talking and planning what to do that day.

“Don’t you have to be at the office?” Gao Tu had turned his head to look at Wenlang’s eyes; he just shook his head.

“No” confirmed before kissing his cheek briefly. 

“You… are skipping work” it wasn’t a question, it was a statement, Wenlang pursed his lips.

“Im not” Gao Tu didn’t seem to agree. “They can handle these things without me there. If the office needs anything they can e-mail it or just come for my signature”  Gao Tu frowned. 

“Wenlang, you should be at the office” he can only imagine the distress the secretaries are going through with the president absent.

“I don’t want to” he hugs Gao Tu tightly “I need to nurse my Baobei” Gao Tu looks at him, turns his head to the front and shakes it “What?” he says, slightly amused by his reaction. Then he feels Gao Tu’s hand in his head hitting him one time, softly “ouch”

“Silly” he feels Wenlang’s chin on his shoulder. Suddenly the image of that limey drink pops in the wolf’s head.  

“Why didn't you drink it?” he asks, trying to see his face.

“Drink what?” Gao Tu turns in the same direction Wenlang is looking at him.

“The limey bottle” Gao Tu blushes and jerks his head away and mumbles something Wenlang doesn’t catch “hmm?” 

“Because you gave it to me, I just couldn’t drink it”  Wenlang feels moved, it had been so long and Gao Tu still kept it, just how special he was for him?

“Do you love me?” he blurts out trying to catch a glimpse of Gao Tu’s face, but he only can see a bit of his cheeks colored in pink, Gao Tu doesn’t move his eyes glued in the further chair’s arm. He sees him nod, just how more blissful it could get? Of course he had a hunch and was practically confirmed when Gao Tu accepted to be with him, but he needed to hear those words from him, he didn’t even know how badly he wanted it before Gao Tu nodded “Can you say it? please” he pleaded, trying to lean in to see Gao Tu’s face.

“It’s embarrassing”  said, moving his head to the opposite side where Wenlang was leaning.

“Fine” he places his chin on Gao Tu’s shoulder again “I will make you say it. I will make you fall for me over and over” he was completely confident on it “and I won't stop until you have no other choice but to tell me those words” was a threat? Surely, a sweet one. 

Hearing Shen Wenlang like this felt unreal, but the determination in his voice, his warm wrapping him up in his arms made it real, very real. He knows the extent Wenlang is willing to go just to get something he wants, he has seen it at work and on his side as his friend. He feels Wenlang pressing his lips on his shoulder.

“Lets get up, go wash your face. I will prepare breakfast” Gao Tu moves forward on the sofa  giving him space to move his legs off.

After Wenlang gets up looks at Gao Tu who was still on the sofa; he looks at him and Wenlang leans in to brush his lips on Gao Tu’s then extend a hand to him, Gao Tu takes it and gets up. As soon as Wenlang turns his back Gao Tu hugs him briefly.

“I love you” he says without facing him, and practically runs away after saying it leaving a frozen alpha standing up in the living room. 

He wishes he could have seen his face, or his lips saying it. He had just missed probably the most embarrassed face Gao Tu could make, but it was okay, for now that is, he knows how it sounds, he wants to see him now. Wenlang places cups on the counter as his mind repeats his shy hug, he had barely felt his arms wrapping him before he had fled. His shyness… he is also fond of it, he keeps finding resemblance to a rabbit in Gao Tu and every time an strange feeling of achievement fills him. 

“Wenlang, you should go too” he hears Gao Tu entering the kitchen, he looks at him for a brief moment before going back to look for the coffee container.

“Go where?” he asks carelessly. 

“Wash your face”  says in a more stiff way.

“Do I not look good right now?” He teases winking at him. Gao Tu frowns. What kind of question is that? 

“It's not about that… just go wash your face, will you? I can take it from here” Wenlang nods and his lips curve in a playful smirk.

“Do you like my face?” he sees Gao Tu startling then sighing. That wasn’t the reaction he expected, but it still amused him.  

“Yes, yes, I do. But I like it better when it is clean” Wenlang pouts, yes, winning against Gao Tu isn’t always guaranteed. Yes, the wolf can be stubborn and pushy, but at the reduced list of people that can change his mind, his precious bunny is at the top. 

“Fine” he gives up and drags his feet out of the kitchen. 

As soon Wenlang abandons the kitchen Gao Tu's thoughts run wild, he felt like he was still dreaming, that this was a prolonged dream, if it was, he didn’t want to wake up. But Wenlang’s touch was very real, everything from it was real. On the other hand it was kinda odd having Wenlang around him like that, touchy, he didn’t expect for him to be like that, he doesnt dislikes it and he guesses it's okay to be like that with his lover. He feels his face warming up, lovers, sooo... they are really dating now. 

“There is still some cake left, do you want some?” he hears Wenlang near the kitchen looking in the fridge. Since Gao Tu didn’t reply, he looked at him “Baobei?” 

“Ah, yes, I do” 

“Have you decided what you want to do today?” Gao Tu shakes his head “We could go outside or cuddle in the sofa” Gao Tu laughs “Im serious” he says hugging him from behind placing his chin on his shoulder, it seems that was going to be Wenlang’s favorite spot for the time being.

“I know” he places a hand over Wenlang’s that was wrapping his waist “It sounds like you want to cuddle really bad, what has gotten to you?” Wenlang lifts his eyes without leaving his shoulder.

“Well, I didn’t have a bunny to cuddle with before” Gao Tu lets a hmmm out.

“Didn’t you cuddle with secretary Hua that day in the office?” he teases, Wenlang startles and quickly turns Gao Tu in his arms to look him in the face.

“Of course not! I wouldn’t touch that psycho!” Well certainly Wenlang's reactions were amusing, but that's a thought Gao Tu kept  for himself.

“But you were touching him, though. He was in your lap too” he sees Wenlang blinking fast and moving his mouth with no words coming out.

“He did that by himself!” he rushes “I didn’t know he would do that!” At this point it seems like Wenlang is working himself up trying to explain himself “He did say he would do something, when I heard the door he sat on me and pulled my hand, I wouldn’t touch him on my own will”  Gao Tu pursed his lips trying to hold a laugh, but ultimately he let a chuckle out confusing Wenlang.

“Im not interrogating you, Wenlang. I was just teasing you” he says putting his hand on Wenlang’s cheek, at the contact Wenlang tilted his head to his shoulder imprisoning his hand, he rubs against it then straightens.

“But it is important to me that you know this, I don't want to have any misunderstandings between us. Not anymore” Gao Tu’s chest compresses, ah Wenlang is really worried about this. 

At the end, they decided that after breakfast they would stay at the sofa for a while, Gao Tu didn’t really feel like going out and Wenlang really liked the idea. Back at the sofa Wenlang was hugging Gao Tu with one hand as he checked his phone with his free hand, Gao Tu was looking at his own when he received a notification.

Sheng Shaoyou: Yesterday’s lunch was great, we should eat together the four of us more frequently

                         [Picture]

The picture Shaoyou had sent him was the selfie Hua Yong had taken of the four before they left. It was originally Shaoyou’s idea and was the one trying to take the picture, but he kept leaving someone out of frame until Hua Yong took his phone and took the photo. In the front it was Shaoyou with Hua Yong who was doing a peace sign with his hand and at the back it were the two of them, Gao Tu was smiling shyly and Wenlang, surprisingly, was smiling for this picture. 

Then he receives another picture that has the four of them barely in frame, it was one of Shaoyou’s attempts, but Hua Yong was rolling his eyes at Wenlang who had one eye open and the other closed, Gao Tu was laughing in that picture, and Shaoyou seemed annoyed.

Gao Tu ends up laughing at the picture.

“What happened?” Wenlang asked, Gao Tu lifts him his phone showing him, he frowns “So Sheng Shaoyou’s camera skills are basically a gamble” Gao Tu laughed again “I have an idea” he opens the camera in his phone and lifts it to have both of them in frame, Gao Tu lowers his phone and smiles, Wenlang has the corner of his lips lifted  and takes the picture “Wait, wait. Let's take another” this time Wenlang presses his lips on Gao Tu’s cheek and takes the picture. 

“Are you sending that to Mr. Sheng?” he asks, timid.

“Just the first one” he says as he opens WeChat “let me send them to you” Gao Tu looks at Wenlang’s phone, he is curious about what he is planning to do, he does as he said and sends him the pictures first then goes to Shaoyou’s chat.

“Psychoyou?” Wenlang chuckleses.

“He deserves it” he sends him the picture 

Shen Wenlang: You should learn how to take good photos, like this, consistently. 

Immediately after Gao Tu receives a video call, he looks at Wenlang who nods. As soon as he picks it up he sees Shaoyou shocked.

“A-Tu what is that doing with you!” Gao Tu laughs and Wenlang gives Shaoyou a dirty look.

“I'm not “that” I have a name, Sheng Shaoyou” then he puts his chin over Gao Tu’s shoulder smiling playfully “Right, Baobei?” he asks with a soft voice causing Shaoyou’s grossed out expression all over his face.

“Bao- Shen Wenlang” Shaoyou trampled with his own words “A-Tu is it true?!” Gao Tu nods “Since when?” 

“This morning” says the wolf, proud. 

“Mr. Sheng, here, I brought you fruit” they hear Hua Yong’s voice, who is not visible right away.

“Hua Yong, look at this” he says pointing at the phone, Hua Yong appears on frame and waves his hand first then blinks and double checks, seeing them cuddling like that wasn’t in his expectatives. Especially Wenlang, seeing that man being somehow soft? weird.

“Huh? No way. Did you finally use your brain Shen Wenlang?” Wenlang gives him a dirty look “that's impressive” he claps softly. 

“Shut up, lunatic” he pauses and then realizes “None of you are going to congratulate us?” Hua Yong stared with empty eyes.

“Ah yes, congratulations Shen Wenlang” his monotone voice managed to piss him off, but then light crossed Hua Yong’s eyes “And congratulations secretary Gao, please have patience with that blockhead”  his voice sounded way different, more lively when he addressed Gao Tu, this dammed fox.

“Congratulations A-Tu, he can be really dense jiayou!” Wenlang rolled his eyes. What kind of friends are these? completely dissing him off and cheering up Gao Tu “We should arrange another gathering soon” Shaoyou teased.

“Hell no, let us spend quality time” Shaoyou laughed immediately. 

“Secretary Gao if Shen Wenlang causes you any trouble let me know~” Hua Yong sounded like he was almost singing.

“I don’t think he would, he looks like an inoffensive puppy right now” Shaoyou teases him, Hua Yong chuckles at it Wenlang stares at the ceiling, taking that call was clearly a mistake.

“Both of you are made for each other” he spits, annoyed.

“Thank you, I know we were destined” Shaoyou smiles and kisses Hua Yong’s cheek under the surprised looks of the other two.

“Yes, we are. Thank you Shen Wenlang” he teases, Wenlang rolls his eyes feeling like hanging up. 

They chatted a bit longer before hanging up, Wenlang sighed and put his nose in Gao Tu’s nape.

“What are you doing?” Gao Tu flinches.

“Recharging” the omega sighs “I really like this sage smell” mentions.

“You said you hated it” Wenlang brushes the tip of his nose in Gao Tu’s skin.

“That’s because I thought it was someone else’s smell. I had to convince myself I hated it, but I don’t, it relaxes me” he admits, and places a short kiss “here, come” he requests him to lay on him, Gao Tu does it and as soon his face touches Wenlang’s chest he caresses his hairs slowly, calming, relaxing him, slowly he finds himself dozing off “Do you want to take a nap?” Gao Tu nods “give me your glasses I'll put them on the coffee table” he did as he said “Are you sure you want to sleep here? I can take you to the bed” his voice sounds incredibly soft, Gao Tu shakes his head and covers himself with the blanket.

“We already slept here. Is quite comfortable” he mumbles with a sleepy voice “I like it…” was the last thing he heard him mumble. 

One of the things Wenlang noticed these days is that Gao Tu gets sleepy very easily when he is comfortable, it really didn’t take him much time to fall asleep, it's fascinating. Wenlang put his cheek on Gao Tu’s head and nuzzled it softly, he never thought of himself doing things like these, but with him it just… he can’t help it, everytime he is with Gao Tu something brings this side of him. He pulled apart and kept looking through his phone when he got a message from Hua Yong.

Lunatic: You better take care of secretary Gao. 

             Mr. Sheng is ready to fight you if you do something stupid.

Shen Wenlang: Huh? Aren’t you supposed to be my friend? Do something

Lunatic: Allegedly. Besides, I trust you won’t do anything stupid, would you?

Shen Wenlang: There's no way I would do something that hurts Gao Tu.

Lunatic: [Staring fox emoji]

Shen Wenlang: What

Lunatic: Then you better change the way you speak about other omegas.

Wenlang thinks about it, he is right… his aversion towards omegas… if he loves Gao Tu, he better embrace all of his sides, including being an omega. He decides starting that moment, researching omegas from lifestyles, medical concerns and so on. He found himself feeling distressed reading omega’s life stories he found in a forum where they were strongly discriminated against…  being denied education or targeted in schools, how some careers had been maliciously obstructed just because they were omegas, how parents had disowned their kids for the fact of being omegas or straight up sold them. It was a lot, he found out some omegas would pretend to not be omegas in order to avoid situations like those, the only real improvement to those situations was after the implementation of the ABO Equality Agreement, but there was a lot more to improve. 

Considering Gao Tu going for any of those discriminatory scenarios made his heart ache and realized how he had been contributing to that with his words, his actions towards other omegas, he feels guilty.

Shen Wenlang: I need advice.

Lunatic: Huh? Are you Shen Wenlang? Secretary Gao, please don’t pretend to be that idiot.

Shen Wenlang: It’s me. Can you not be an ass right now?

Lunatic: What is it?

Shen Wenlang: I'm thinking of implementing a discrimination protocol in the company.

Lunatic: No way. Secretary Gao already changed you this bad? 

             Wow.

Shen Wenlang: Is not like that.

Lunatic: Yeah, sure. 

Shen Wenlang: What do you know about discrimination protocols?

Wenlang ended up drafting a discrimination protocol with recommendations from the ABO Equality Agreement and some things Hua Yong had pointed out. He realized his company was fulfilling the legal requirements, but now it felt the bare minimum so he added things according to his research. He pinned some ideas about supporting programs in education and health. 

He looks at Gao Tu still resting on his chest, he had moved a few times and had seen him snuggling with his nose, he can’t help but feel certain comfort looking at him resting like that, is precious. Then he remembers the conversation they had about his dad, could it be his father related to the cause of why he was hiding he was an omega? Just thinking about it, it infuriates him. 

His resolution to make Gao Tu happy feels stronger than ever, he would do it, it doesn’t matter how, but he will make him happy.

Chapter Text

At the end, Wenlang ended up falling asleep too, working in his draft had required more mental energy he thought it would, specially the omega’s testimonies was the hardest part to go through. When he woke up, the sun had already moved, probably around 16:00, it had been a pretty decent nap. He looks down at his chest where he doesn’t find Gao Tu, just a blanket covering him, then a smell fills his nose; its food, he yawns and gets up lazily walks up to the kitchen where he finds Gao Tu stirring a pot.

“What are you doing?” he asks, yawning again. Gao Tu looks at him and laughs “What’s so funny?” Gao Tu gestures to him to lean down his face, he does.

“Your bedhair is crazy” gently Gao Tu tries to accommodate Wenlang’s hair, some of his hair being rebellious refuses to go down, making him chuckle. Wenlang is staring at him, the dedication he uses just to brush his hair with his hands; it moves him “There… i think? Fix the rest when you wash your face” 

“Why don't you fix it for me?” he looks at him with round eyes tilting his head, Gao Tu just looks at him with resignation and gently pats his face.

“No” Wenlang pouts “I'm not doing it, go” he pats him one last time before going back to the pot. Wenlang gives up and leaves the kitchen. 

When Gao Tu woke up he took time to stare at Wenlang’s sleeping face, he seemed calm and deep in sleep, shyly he extended his arm towards his face and feel his cheek, Wenlang moved slightly at the contact, Gao Tu moved his hand but didn’t part it completely, after Wenlang had accommodated himself Gao Tu continued, with even more care this time; used his fingers tip and traced Wenlang’s nose, then his chin. It really was Shen Wenlang, the very same man that seemed so unreachable behind his desk, the man with harsh eyes and foul mouth was right there with him, holding him. The same man whose, just with his stares, could be quite mean had been looking at him with extreme tenderness and care, his voice which he would use to say really cruel and foul things had only been saying sweet words to him. 

It was a complete change, he was going with it but part of him was a bit resistant to take this change. It's been years with him, with his mean side to be more precise, but he hasn’t always been mean to him… except when his alleged omega partner was mentioned in the conversation, he would even consider Wenlang nice person, definitively rough in the sides or was he too blinded by his feelings? He sighs, feelings are hard. 

“Do you want to sleep with me tonight?” clank, Gao Tu had dropped the ladle, he looked at Wenlang who's standing in the entrance with his hair now fixed.

“What?” mumbles “president Shen you are moving way too fast” he says with his hand on his neck. Wenlang blinks and frowns, what was that reaction?

“But we already slept together, twice” he pointed, Gao Tu sighs, relived “What is that?”

“It’s nothing” Wenlang blinks, he realizes what Gao Tu was thinking, he feels his ears burning.

“That’s not what I meant!” Gao Tu raises an eyebrow “I haven’t even thought about it” Gao Tu crosses his arms “Okay, fine, I did think about it, but not now” Gao Tu shakes his head. 

“Pervert” Wenlang’s shoulders drop as he sighs and places a hand on his forehead.

“That’s not- Baobei, I just want to share the bed with you” he says it and then realizes the wording isn’t helping at all, sighs again, whenever is about Gao Tu it seems like his brain barely cooperates "Yesterday and today's nap were great, both times I had you in my arms, that's all” Gao Tu knows, it had been the same for him too “this is embarrassing"

“Okay” he agrees, but before Wenlang could say anything he adds “just today” he sees him pursing his lips and nodding. 

They set the table as they wait for the food to be ready. Then again, this sensation of ‘home’ rises in them, everything feels comfortable almost meant to be. 

“I have some work to do after lunch” mentions Wenlan as he helps Gao Tu with the dishes.

“Ah…  will you be going to the office?” Wenlang shakes his head. He didn't catch Gao Tu's subtle change in his voice.

“No, I'll be at the study,” Gao Tu nods.

Wenlang was determined to continue with the development of this protocol and upgrade the policies within the company, was it basically guided by his feelings towards Gao Tu? yes, yes it was. Was this enough to repair his past wrong doings towards omegas? Probably not, but it was a way to change the balance of things, trying to make them more fair. 

After lunch he did the dishes and told Gao Tu to just rest, if he needed anything he would be at the study. At the beginning Gao Tu sat on the sofa and tried watching anything, but nothing could get his attention. An hour went by like that, then he was scrolling on his phone and that worked better… it was hard for him to find something to do, at the hospital it wasn’t like this since he didn’t really feel great at all and slept most of the time when he didn’t have visitors. His life is basically work then go home and repeat, ah, and visit Gao Qing… Gao Qing, he will have to tell her at some point. He tried texting Sheng Shaoyou, but the only reply he got was him telling him he was sorry, but he was busy with work. Another hour went by, at that point Gao Tu got up and went to the kitchen, he brewed Wenlang’s favorite tea and went to the study, he knocked first and as he heard the confirmation he entered.

Wenlang was behind his desk with papers on top and typing in his laptop, he looked quite serious about what he was doing, he didn’t even lift his eyes from the screen when Gao Tu entered, that was Wenlang in work mode. 

“President Shen, your tea” Gao Tu leaves the tray on the desk.

“Thanks” without lifting his eyes he takes the cup and drinks from it before placing it again in the tray “wait” he looks at the cup then looks at Gao Tu who is looking at him with expectant eyes and a smile “Did you just call me President Shen?” Gao Tu snorts and covers his mouth with two fingers.

“Well, I saw President Shen” he replies as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. Wenlang shakes his head softly “What are you working on? Need help?” there's this subtle glow in his eyes when he looks at him, he means it.

“You should rest, not work, you are on leave” Gao Tu’s face drops slightly.

“But…”

“No buts, go rest” he notices how Gao Tu doesn’t move and switches his weight on his legs and purses his lips. Part of him feels bad for sending him away, but he truly needs to recover “do you want to pick a book from the shelf?” he asks, Gao Tu looks at the shelves without moving “if you want to stay, the sofa is free” Wenlang pointed to the sofa in the room, he had a sofa in his study in which he would mostly take short naps as breaks from his work. 

“Thanks, but I will read in the living room” Wenlang nods, it would be a lie if he said he wasn’t a little disappointed. Gao Tu picks a book and leaves.

As he reads, Gao Tu’s mind wanders back to the office, to work… How are things going to be moving forward? He can’t use inhibitors anymore, that means he will have to go under his heats and compatibilize his work load with his cycles… he isn’t sure about it, he has been pretending to be a beta since he presented… going to live as an omega would change everything? He keeps questioning himself, are things going to be too different for him? Yes he still took days off when his heat was uncontrollable and his absence is most known in the office. Would that- the office, he… would have to tell everyone he is actually an omega? How are they going to take it? It stresses him. He doesn’t want his professionalism to be judged just for who he is.  Wenlang’s words repeat in his head ‘I still have known you for years. You are still the same hardworking Gao Tu that I know, aren’t you?’ It comforts him, the toughest judge had forgiven him for hiding it, even more, he asked him to be with him despite that lie… he loves him despite having tricked him, but why? Why does Wenlang love him? Since when? These questions build up in his mind… he will ask him, he wants to know. Gao Tu doesn’t doubt Wenlang’s sincerity or his feelings, but why? Why does he love him? 

A buzz interrupts his thoughts, a message.

Shen Wenlang: What do you want to have for dinner?

                       Homemade or delivery? 

 

He stares at the screen, this side of him is just… cute.

Gao Tu: Who’s homemade?

Shen Wenlang: Mine, of course. 

Gao Tu: Aren’t you tired? You have been there for a while, it seems intense.

Shen Wenlang: I can manage it.

                      So, which one is it? 

Gao Tu: I can cook something.

Shen Wenlang: No, it’s okay. I’ll go cook something quick.

Gao Tu: Are you done?

Shen Wenlang: Almost, I think. 

                       But I need a break.

Gao Tu: Do you want some fruit? I can cut some for you

Shen Wenlang: Maybe after dinner.

                       [replying to:  Do you want fruit? I can cut some for you] Would you feed me?

Gao Tu: Last time I checked you were able to eat by yourself.

Shen Wenlang: You are being mean. 

                       [crying wolf sticker]

Gao Tu: [sighing rabbit sticker] 

 

He hears the door of the study closing and turns to see Wenlang coming into the living room, he seemed tired.

“I can make dinner, you know? You look quite tired” Wenlang shakes his head.

“No, I’ll do it, you already did lunch and I'm supposed to take care of you”  Gao Tu pats the empty side next to him on the sofa, Wenlang walks up and drops in the sofa. 

“What are you working on?” Wenlang looks at him and a faint smile draws in his lips.

“Just optimizing protocols, had to deal with HR corrections. They are the most tiring of all” he sighs it had been tiring, HR was reluctant to take the new norms at the beginning, it was ridiculous to Wenlang after all everything was rather on a favorable side. 

“HR drained you this bad?” He really doubted it.

“Is just… they requested more things instead of just taking it. So troublesome” indeed, HR had requested training for this new project. He didn’t see why it was so necessary at the beginning, in the back and forth they ended up deciding to have around five training seasons and the number might go up again. He sighs “Anyway, what do you want to eat?” he asked, pulling out his phone.

After they placed the order Wenlang still seemed a bit off, invested on his thoughts. 

“Ah so troublesome” he complained before pulling his hair back. 

“Wenlang?” He looks at him and extends his arm to Gao Tu’s hand.

“Is just… things aren’t going as I thought” complains while he plays with Gao Tu’s hand. The shutdown HR did on what he thought were the strongest points; that had annoyed him, they were right, but still, it made him feel like he didn’t understand anything of what he read. Gao Tu pats his hand with his free hand.

“It’s okay” Wenlang nods absent-mindedly.

After dinner each of them took a bath and met in Wenlang's room, Gao Tu observed it, is not like he hadn’t been there before, he had, but this time felt different. 

“You didn’t dry your hair properly,” he told Wenlang, sending him back to the room’s bathroom. Wenlang tried to protest, but Gao Tu just pushed him softly in the bathroom direction.

Gao Tu doesn’t get in the bed, he is still standing, timidly looking around and questioning himself why did he agree, well he knows why, he liked sleeping with Wenlang, he was quite warm and it was easy to fall asleep. But still, it feels too rushed doesn't it? Well in retrospective almost everything felt rushed, why the sudden change? The sudden confession? It’s a lot. 

“Im done” he hears Wenlang walking in the room and looks at him, he is looking at him with a confused expression “you were waiting?”  Gao Tu nods “You could just have gotten in bed, Baobei” and that nickname, it didn’t bother him, but again, why so sudden?

“Can we talk?” Wenlang freezes, something in his tone doesn't sit well with him, but nods. He sits on the edge of the bed and Gao Tu does the same “Wenlang” he calls him and doesn’t look him in the face right away, instead he holds his own hands “I appreciate your feelings, I really do. I know they are genuine” shit, Wenlang feels like the floor under his feet is crumbling, is this a break up speech? This soon?  There's so many things he still wants to do with him, places to visit it can’t be “But, why?” Wenlang blinks that sudden question pulls him out of his loop, he looks at him, confused and a bit panicked.

“Why what?” Gao Tu looks at him and locks eyes. 

“Why do you love me?” Wenlang lets out a big sigh and puts his hands on his face.

“Thank god” he mumbles “You scared me for a second, I thought you wanted to break up” he sees him through his fingers then removes his hands, Gao Tu shakes his head surprised “I wouldn’t have agreed” mentions and sighs again, he takes one of Gao Tu’s hands and brushes the back of his hand with his thumb, gently “I just do, your hardwork, your determination, your face, your existence. I love them very dearly”

“Since when?” Wenlang changes his focus to the wall then looks back at Gao Tu.

“Probably since for a long time” Gao Tu looks at him confused, and tilts his head slightly “I didn’t know right away” he admits “I have been… blind. But I clearly have been loving you for a good while, I have been jealous before even knowing it” he pauses “That day at the hospital, when you were inside and the doctors were stabilizing you” his voice subtly changes “I felt extremely uneasy, especially knowing that I had been the cause of your collapse… the more I thought… the thought of not having you with me, the possibility of you disappearing from this world… it just crushed me. That desperation I felt…  it made me realize I couldn’t do anything without you, I was lost… and that… made me realize I had feelings for you”  his voice breaks as he opens up to Gao Tu, his biggest fear had been uncovered that night; not having Gao Tu. 

Wenlang doesn’t mind having or not having others by his side, it's okay, no one is indispensable, with only one major exception… When it comes to Gao Tu is something he can barely handle, even the days he was absent from the office felt terribly long and kept waiting to see him the next day, despite knowing he was on leave and might not see him anytime soon, his thoughts always wandered back to him, his presence.

Gao Tu didn’t find the words right away, he just caressed Wenlang’s cheek, his expression had turned completely vulnerable. Wenlang showing him his vulnerable side moves him, he feels his heart ache seeing that sadness in his eyes when he told him how crushed he was… he wraps Wenlang’s neck with his arms pulling him close in a comforting hug, Wenlang slides his arms around his waist, squeezing him. Almost as if he were scared to let him go. And for the first time, Gao Tu willingly releases soothing pheromones as he caresses Wenlang’s hairs. The wolf doesn’t comment on it, but hides his nose in Gao Tu’s neck trying to feel them deeper. They stay like that, hugging, comforting. After a while Wenlang pulled apart and kissed Gao Tu’s head and rested his cheek on top of his head.

“Thank you, Wenlang” the wolf smiles and kisses his head again “We have a long way ahead you know?” they break apart to look each other, Wenlang nods.

“I know”

“So… try to not rush things, okay?” Wenlang tilts his head, rushing things? It doesn't feel like that for him.

“Huh?” He is confused.

“I'm sorry, don't get me wrong,  I like this, but at times it feels too fast” Wenlang blinks as he realizes it has been a bit rushed… well it was faster than what he thought it would be with his courting plan “I do… love you” he mumbles “but you know…” 

“Yes I… know” Wenlang is still confused, he had just realized that indeed everything had been fast, his protocol design, changing the way he calls him… but everything feels right so why is it? … is confusing.

That night they still agreed on sleeping together; cuddling. But Gao Tu’s words kept repeating in his head, was it really that fast? so he took his phone and searched: what does it mean when I rush things with my partner. The first result takes him to a Q&A forum.

Rushing things with my partner, I'm an Alpha and he is an Omega.

OP: WildMochi

Hello, I (28) recently got together with my partner (29) and we already moved in together and we are planning a wedding. We have been together for two weeks.

Wenlang gaps, two weeks? That's definitely rushing things no matter how you see it. 

We just realized we have been moving too fast after his parents pointed it out when we went to ask them for their blessing. They seemed shocked and I spoke to my friends too. They seemed concerned about my partner taking advantage of me, but he wants to pay for everything. If anything, I would be the one taking advantage of him. Since we got officially together everything felt right and proper, my friends keep saying that something is definitively wrong with us, but is that bad? We thought we were doing fine. 

 

↳CaraV4N:

   Two weeks?! That’s definitively rushing! Are you guys pregnant?!

     ↳WildMochi OP:

       No, we are not. We just love each other. 

↳FreePotato:

  This happened to us too… we are a fated pair tho.

     ↳Croakdile:

       Huh? Aren’t fated pairs just a myth?

       ↳FreePotato:

       LOL no, we are very real. “Fated Pairs” is how people romanticize it. Our compatibility is 100%.  OP you should check your compatibility with your partner, if it  turns out that your compatibility, depending on your doctor they will recommend you something different.

            ↳WildMochi:

              Thanks for the advice… We already got an appointment. 

         ↳CaraV4N: 

           Recommend something different? What do you mean?

            ↳ FreePotato:

              Well… It depends, since we were so intense according to the doctor our body developed a need for the other, it has to be with our pheromones, they change just to adapt to the partner. The fastest way for us to equilibrate was a mark…. There is also therapy for it. 

 

[UPDATE] WildMochi OP:

We took a compatibility test; we are destined partners. Currently on pheromone adaptation therapy. Thanks everyone for your responses.  

↳GrumpyDurian:

  This post is just full of bs, it has to be fake. Is just crazy people justifying a shotgun wedding. Destined partners don't exist. Touch some grass.

Wenlang blinked at his screen, is it even possible? Growing up he had heard about it from classmates, but never took it seriously. It was mostly a cliché phrase some alphas would use to pick up omegas, and some omegas would say they are waiting for their destined partner. He never actually thought about it, because why would he be interested in omegas? That was ridiculous. 

So Wenlang spent the next hour researching about destined pairs which turned out to be a really big deal, to the point the concept was mostly used in dramas and movies about impossible loves or love idiots who keep meeting again or idiots who fall in love. He even took the time to read a summary of a popular drama where the leads were destined partners but they were married and marked with different partners, the whole story revolved around how they end up getting together. There was another one about two alpha identical twins who reacted to the same omega as destined partners. Every single summary he read ended up revolving around the same; fated partners and destiny twists. By the end of it he was feeling oddly annoyed, he ended up discovering a whole genre of clichés. However, he did end up finding posts and forums dedicated to only fated partners, turns out around 5% of the population has claimed they are fated partners. According to the medicine it was like that user on that forum said; the pheromones somehow adapt to the partner and change the brain chemistry and clouds their judgement in comparison to a normal paced relationship, their high compatibility doesn’t, by any means, dictate their feelings. 

He kept reading going further and further in a loop, he even entered a discussion forum where people were discussing what was enough to be considered a fated partner, some say 90% of compatibility is enough and the most purist ones say it's 100% or nothing, but these are just people on the internet discussing and don't have any medical backup. 

But if they were fated partners there's the obvious question then; why i didn't trigger earlier? Could it be… it had to be with the use of inhibitors?  or his brain had rotten after reading all of those fated pairs discussions? He has many questions that strangers on the internet can’t solve. He needs to consult with a doctor, seriously. Maybe they could check tomorrow with Gao Tu's doctor, he seemed wise. 

Chapter Text

That next morning Wenlang woke up first, the sun still hadn’t risen and he was already awake, thinking about fated pairs. At first he didn’t really thought much about it after leaving his phone charging and trying to fall asleep… but he even dreamt about the summaries he had read of those fated pairs dramas; one specific dream stuck with him where Gao Tu had a fated pair and it was an alpha Hua Yong, but he and Gao Tu were in love and together… they didn’t want to accept Hua Yong was his fated pair at the beginning, after all Hua Yong had recently married Sheng Shaoyou, still fate kept pulling them apart and making Gao Tu’s and Hua Yong’s paths constantly cross over and over until their bodies started needing each other pheromones to function then is when he and Gao Tu had broken up in a hospital, crying, not wanting to be apart, but Wenlang only wanted the best for him even if that didn't include him; he wanted him alive, living a good life. 

Wenlang hated that nightmare and also hated having read that drama’s summary then the comments full of spoilers with people complaining about the couple having to break up despite loving each other so badly. Stupid writers, making a story full of anguish, even how could that be a happy ending? It  was “fate” forcing people to be together despite the feelings. Annoyed by that dream and carrying an inexplicable extra weight in his chest he got up carefully to not wake Gao Tu right after leaving a kiss on his forehead. Their oniric breakup kept repeating on his head and not even washing his face helped on washing it away. Wenlang was stirring a cup with instant coffee, preparing the coffee maker felt like a hassle, he needed a coffee to fully wake him up; fast. But the fated pairs thing keeps pestering him, he sighs annoyed and slams the cup on the counter to pull off his phone to search fated pairs, again. 

Again the information was the same; “fated pairs” was the term popularized by people used to talk about an old tale about an alpha and omega that when they met it “felt” like they had found someone who didn’t even knew they desperately missed and the strong need to mark the omega and be bonded together. The story changes depending on who tells it, the names, the locations but the main points are always the same: alpha, omega and fate. Then there's the (alleged) fated pairs statements he read, most of them were about how these fated pairs met for the first time and the way they felt once they laid eyes on the other; it was like a long love had finally presented in front them as if they had loved each other in a  previous life and finally met in this one, there is this urgent need of not wasting time, spending time together, living together, a permanent mark, registering marriage, everything, the fastest way possible. But that wasn’t totally their case, yes, lately Wenlang felt the need to be together with Gao Tu, embracing him, cuddling, kissing him, not being apart for too long and everything felt right.  

Then there is the medical view, according to the doctors high compatibility in individuals between 95% to 100% it’s related to pheromones, the partners with such high levels of compatibility develop a need for them after being exposed to them, even briefly, which is why is said it produced a change in the brain chemistry. This along with brain fog produced by these pheromones is also addressed by the medical community, there's a big concern regarding the capability of these high compatibility pairs of not being able to be reasonable when it's about their partners  and planning a future, according to the studies there are two medical suggestions to treat this: a mark and pheromone adaptation therapy, but there is no further explanation on the methods.  He frowns, there is way too little information out there.

“Wenlang?” He turns his head towards the kitchen entrance and finds Gao Tu without glasses rubbing one of his eyes and yawing.

“Morning, baobei” he greets with a smile. Gao Tu slowly walks up to him and rests his forehead near his shoulder  “Are you still sleepy?” he feels Gao Tu shaking his head lazily. 

“I didn't see you in the room” he mumbles, with a clearly sleepy voice. 

“What is that?” he teases “Do you want to cuddle some more?” to his surprise, Gao Tu nods “not hungry for breakfast?” then again a head shake.

“Are you hungry?”  Wenlang hugs Gao Tu from behind and places his chin on top of his head, they walk like that back to the room.

“Not really, I had a bad dream, thought it was better if I just fully woke up” he sighs with that hospital image flashing again in his head. 

“What was it about?” he asks while getting in bed, he sits waiting for him. Wenlang joins him and then when Gao Tu finds a spot near his chest, Wenlang wraps him with one arm and draws him closer. 

“Have you ever heard about ‘Next stop is fate’?” Gao Tu looks at Wenlang with his eyebrows almost touching “so, no?” 

“No. What is that?”

“A really, really awful drama” if there is something Wenlang is good at, is not letting grudges go, unless, of course, if it is related to Gao Tu who just chuckles.

“Since when do you have beefs with tv shows?” Wenlang sighs and hugs him closer.

“Today, maybe. Is really awful” Gao Tu is amused by his response, he really had a beef with it didn’t he? 

“Should we watch it?” teases, Wenlang shakes his head. 

“Absolutely no” he breaks apart and kisses his forehead “the story is quite sad, actually. I don’t know what those writers were thinking about it when they did it” he breaks apart and takes one of Gao Tu’s hands and kisses it. 

“What is it about?” This time he sounds even more sleepier than before. But Wenlang still decides to tell him

“It is about fated pairs and how fate separates two couples that love each other very much… in order for one of them to reunite with his fated pair”  then again, images of that nightmare flashes in his head, he feels a tug in his chest every time he remembers it, it feels so vivid. 

“You… could beat fate” Gao Tu words came out quietly, dozing off, but his words comforted Wenlang in a way he didn’t know he did. 

The dream had left him pretty shaken up, but he didn’t want to admit it. And even if he did, how was supposed to confront those feelings? Telling Gao Tu ‘you left me for Hua Yong in my dream?’ no, that wasn’t right. He even knew it was a dream, but it still bothered him a lot. 

They woke up later in the day when the sun had risen and this time Wenlang didn’t dream about fated pairs or that awful drama, this time he was actually able to get rest. Wenlang woke up when he felt something going through his hair and when he opened his eyes he met a chest in front of him, Gao Tu was hugging him and caressing his hair affectionately and slowly. He doesn’t move and shuts his eyes, takes his time to enjoy it, it feels like if he moves it's over.

“Wenlang” Gao Tu calls him with a soft voice, still he doesn’t react, he just wants to enjoy this a little bit longer “Wenlang, wake up” now he softly taps his shoulder blade, still he doesn’t want to get up “Wenlang” now he sounds more stern and the tap is less soft now, he feels Gao Tu moving “Wenlang” then he feels a shy peek on the side of his head above his earlobe “Wak-” in a swift move, Wenlang lays his back in the mattress and pulls Gao Tu on top of him laying on his chest “Wenlang!” he tries to hide his face in his chest “If you are awake just get up” mumbles

“And miss this? No way” he places his hands on Gao Tu’s cheeks and makes him look at him, his cheeks are covered in pink. 

Wenlang kept teasing Gao Tu until he got annoyed enough; got up and left without saying any word to Wenlang who went behind him trying to make him talk to him, but it didn't work, he would stare at him and move aside. 

“Baaobeeei” he called but was only met with a door shutting in his face and the sound of a faucet turned on. He surrenders, for now, and goes to take a shower as well

After the shower Wenlang prepares breakfast as he waits for Gao Tu occasionally peeking at the kitchen entrance waiting to see him, when he finally hears him coming into the kitchen he had already settled the table, Gao Tu walks straight to get a glass of water and Wenlang; who was practically following him hugs him from behind placing his chin on his shoulder. 

“I’m sorry” he mumbles “I won’t tease you that much anymore” Gao Tu looks at him and sighs and gives him a single soft pat on his head “ouch”  

“Be good, will you?” Wenlang nods “you still haven’t dry your hair” he turns and locks eyes with Wenlang who looks like a dejected puppy, he holds back a smile and brushes his cheek with the back of his fingers.

“Okay” he says quietly and releases him “you can go ahead and eat” he feels a tug in his sleeve. Gao Tu pulls him and guides him to the bathroom where he dries his hair, Wenlang stays quiet and lets him do it; he likes it. 

“Lets go” Gao Tu says after he is done drying his hair. They get to the table where they sit on their respective seats, Wenlang on the head and Gao Tu by his side on the right.

“Do you have a check up today?” Gao Tu nods “I can take you”

“Are you skipping the office again?” Wenlang smirks and Gao Tu shuts his eyes thinking of the secretaries rearranging their boss schedule and meetings.

“Im a nurse on duty” his comment takes him unprepared and ends up laughing loudly.

Around noon they leave for Gao Tu’s appointment on their way to the hospital Wenlang suddenly gets flashes of that damn dream once again. Just how long is that planning to torment him? can't he just enjoy his time with Gao Tu? The awful image of them from afar holding hands and seeing Gao Tu’s neck with Hua Yong's mark made his heart ache, shit. Awful story telling.    

“Have you ever heard about fated pairs?” he asks, feeling the need to stop thinking about that dream, anything will work.

“Kinda? I have heard the secretaries  talking about tv shows” good, Wenlang's mouth can be faster than his brain, he had brought up the topic he didn't really feel like talking about.  

“Do you think it exists?” 

“Isn't it just fiction?” Gao Tu's answers leave him thinking, what if what he had read and went over and over was just something made up by a group of fanatic people? He couldn't help but feel a bit dumb. 

“I… don't know” he mumbles with certain shame “Do you mind if we request a compatibility test?” Gao Tu looks at him weirded out.

“Are you okay, Wenlang?” He shakes his head softly.

“Not really, there's a thing that has been bothering me since morning” at a red light he hands him over his phone “When you pointed out we were moving too fast I… ended up searching some stuff” green light comes faster than he could expected “and some people mentioned that it usually happens with partners with a high compatibility”  Gao Tu looks at it and is as he says, he nods.

“I think we can ask for a test” that relieved Wenlang.

Gao Tu went reading the tabs Wenlang's browser had  grouped with fated pairs, from a forum to a medical perspective to end up reading an article  from a magazine in the readers' letters. It was amazing, many people saying how fast their relationship progressed and how greatly warm it was, but not all of the stories were sweet, some were about how their partners had broken up with them and threw out the whole life they had built together in order to be with their high compatibility partner.  At the end of the letters it was an editor note that thanked every reader for reaching out and sharing their experience.

We want to thank all of our readers that decided to submit their stories. It's been pretty heartwarming, heartbreaking and enlightening about the dynamics in a relationship with such a high compatibility, it shows that reality can overcome fiction, we hope and pray for every reader's happy ending.

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Curious, Gao Tu taps on the article and goes through it. Wenlang was right, it was awful and had a good chunk of anguish.

The show has two main couples, two alphas who get married during the show and an alpha-omega couple getting together, the show centers in the couples falling in love with their partners, being with them supportive and overcoming hardships until the story turns a 180º, one of the married alphas met the omega on the other couple and realize they are fated pairs, they don't want it, they are in love with their partners. But after that fateful encounter their paths keep crossing and crossing, like the omega getting accepted in his dreamed position and company where the alpha is his boss, they have to be together pretty much every time and slowly their pheromones get entangled to the point they need the other pheromones. The remaining alpha from the married couple tries to break them apart by targeting the omega while the omega's alpha tries to avoid his partner of getting hurt by the malicious husband who is desperate to keep his partner on his side, the omega couple tries marking as a last resource hoping it would change the omega needs of the fated pheromones, but it doesn't work… the omega gets sick and is rushed to be hospitalized while the fated alpha collapses due unknown reasons. The malicious husband confronts the omega begging him to leave them alone, the omega's alpha gets into a full enraged discussion with the malicious husband he yells that is not the omega's fault, is the fate, the cursed fate they have and if he loves his husband that much he would do the right thing before punching the malicious husband who is dragged out by security later. Once the alpha and the omega are alone in his hospital room, he breaks down and pleads to his partner to break up with him and take the mark removal surgery, he doesn't care if they can't be together, he just wants him alive, living a long and fulfilling life.

The drama ends with a scene of the fated pair holding hands, the married alpha left hand is missing a ring  and the omega's neck has a recently made mark next to a scar. 

Gao Tu felt discomfort in his chest, what was this? Why was that ending approved? How is that a happy ending? After a small research Gao Tu finds out the drama was based on the director’s personal experience, he was the one who begged his partner to break up with him and he refuses to change the story, because it is his story. 

Wenlang parks the car at the hospital parking lot and looks at Gao Tu who has an upset expression, he hurriedly places a hand on his cheek.

“Baobei what's wrong?” he asks, trying to make him look at him, Gao Tu looks at him and shuts his eyes.

“You were right, the story is awful” he lets out a shaky breath, Wenlang hugs him.

“It’s okay, don't mind it” 

But Gao Tu's thoughts were invested on the fated pair shown in that drama, what if Wenlang has one fated pair? would he leave him like that alpha did in order to protect him? he really doesn't want to think about it, Wenlang is right in front of him after all those years or yearning for his affection he is finally giving it to him, yes, he needs to focus on what is real. 

After they calm down they get inside the building the doctor greets them asks Gao Tu how he had been feeling and orders a test to check the state of his imbalance.

“Excuse me doctor” Wenlang calls, before he sends the orders “Could we… also get our compatibility tested?” the doctor raises an eyebrow.

“Is this because of that idol drama?” he asks and sighs “we had many couples asking for the same since that drama aired” he taps the end of his pen on the table  still thinking about it, he would probably refuse, but considering Gao Tu's health he ends up agreeing “yes, we can conduct it, but let me warn you, high compatibility are extremely rare cases, it is not that common to find partners with 100% compatibility. Don't get disencouraged if the score isn't what you both are expecting. Heart and love matters are separated from whatever the score is” the doctor's words feel reliving.

Briefly they wonder how many couples had asked that since that drama aired, for them -or at least Wenlang- is not the main reason why he wants to know, but it would be lying if that dream based on that awful dream hadn't left him with that odd weight on his chest. They conduct the test and while they wait for the doctor Wenlang holds Gao Tu's hand.

“I think you already know it, but regardless of whatever our compatibility is I will still love you” he places a kiss on his hand. Gao Tu nods and smiles at him.

“I know, you are stubborn” Wenlang laughs, it’s true. Despite what Gao Tu said, Wenlang's words had relieved him.  

“Alright gentlemen, I have the results with me” the doctor announces as he enters the room with an envelope, he sits in front of them “Your pheromone gland is doing good, there is still a long way to go. Probably we can implement supplements for your gland now”

“Is there any way I can help him?” Wenlang asks, the doctor looks at him and nods.

“A mark… even a temporary one would be great if both of you are considering it” he says, Wenlang feels his ears getting hot “However his gland can't take it right now, it needs to recover, the supplement patches would help. These are compounding… a custom medicine adapted specifically to your current health state” both of them nod thinking on the next steps “And these are your compatibility results” he takes the envelope and opens it “again, allow me to remind you that the results of this test doesn't change your feelings for eac-” he suddenly goes quiet with his eyes widen.  Tension arises, Wenlang and Gao Tu feel the silent unbearable long “is… 100%”

Wenlang turns his head to Gao Tu in shock, Gao Tu looks at him as well trying to read each other's expressions, but the impression is too strong to get out of it quickly. Both of them look at the doctor who is still staring at the paper, he rubs one eye without believing it, these cases are extremely rare. The doctor blinks one more time before getting out of shock and hands it over to Wenlang who, with shaky hands, takes it and confirms it; it's on the paper a 100% is inked on it, he shows it to Gao Tu who takes it trembling, that can't be true, what are the odds?

“Okay… Okay” the doctor breaks the silence “this… changes things” both of them look at the doctor still in disbelief “Have you been feeling a strong need to be with the other? to be together all day?” Wenlang blinks.

“I… have, but isn't it normal?” Gao Tu looks at them.

“I feel like being with him, but not overbearing” the rabbit mentions owning a look from both men. 

“Okay… I think we need another test. Pheromone compatibility status” he mentions before writing the order for it.

The test basically shows how the pheromones have merged and makes a count of them, if the amount of merged pheromones is too high they could have symptoms of brain fog. The results take longer to arrive, Wenlang and Gao Tu are now in a waiting room, still processing the fact their compatibility is 100% full of questions as well. Wenlang pulls his phone and takes a picture of the result before carefully putting it back on the envelope and sliding it in on his jacket inner sleeve, now this is his treasure, a keepsake. 

“Wenlang?” Gao Tu calls him.

“Yes?” he says, taking his hand.

“Is this real?” he pinches his own cheek, it hurts, so it is a real “how…”

“I don't know, but I'm happy” he says and lets his head rest on top of Gao Tu's while fidgeting his fingers “We could go and get married now, don't you think?” Gao Tu shakes his head.

“That is way too soon, silly” Gao Tu laughs and taps his head.

“This must be a signal, Baobei” he chuckles, now it feels like the nightmare in the morning is just a far past memory.  

“We are not taking it that fast” 

“But you will marry me in the future, right?” His tone sounds genuine and a bit playful, he is enjoying it. Gao Tu chuckles and doesn't say anything. 

The doctor calls them in later, they get in the office still full of questions, but happy.

“The results came back and… it's interesting” they both nod “Mr Shen, your pheromones are altered by 20%” he nods “and Mr. Gao's doesn't show a difference at all, we could only see the imbalance”  Gao Tu blinks, he isn't understanding much.

“What does it mean, doctor?” the omega asks, the doctor lets a sigh go and accommodates himself in the chair.

“To put it simply, you are not affected by the merged pheromones at all” Wenlang is confused and tilts his head.

“Not at all? is… it possible?” he asks.

“Considering his actual imbalance, yes it is. I assume when his gland completely balances he will be fully affected by them.  Also it is interesting how Mr. Shen is affected by 20% this probably also has to do with Mr. Gao's pheromones state… so the effect of the high compatibility syndrome (HCS) is not affecting both of you like it usually does with other partners who usually get a peak of 40-50% when they meet their high compatible partner” he makes a pause allowing the new information to sit with them. Then continues “Considering your situation the best thing we could do is begin with a pheromone adaptation therapy, before it escalates for Mr. Shen and Mr. Gao doesn't feel overwhelmed" oh finally the words Wenlang had read a lot of but has no information on it.

“How does it work?” Wenlang takes a complete serious mode while looking at the doctor.

“Well, both of you are living together?” he nods “Good, so, basically you will need to use an ambiental neutralizer, similar to a humidifier, but it contains neutralizer tablets that are adapted to the merged pheromones percentage. So, since your merged pheromone alteration is of 20% the neutralizer you have to use is of 18％ and slowly reduce the amount of neutralizer, the idea is to climatize you to the merged pheromones in order they don't cloud your judgement. Usually partners have the same amount of merged pheromones or the ratio variates slightly, very different to this case. Since Mr. Gao isn’t affected by them, the neutralizer shouldn't affect him” Wenlang nods so it doesn't harm him.

“What if we still need to be together outside?” Gao Tu asks, concerned, how are they going to be able to work at the office?

“Good question. When the treatment begins it needs a high exposure during the first day, meaning you both will have to spend a whole day together; so take a work leave if needed, then it should be used during nights and we will need check ups to adapt the neutralizer according to how merged pheromones changes”

It had been a lot of information, but it was helpful, doctor kept giving them recommendations and told Gao Tu he should be ready to get back to work in two more days if they begin using the neutralizers tomorrow, the compound patch he needs to treat his gland shouldn’t be a problem with the treatment.

By the time they get off the hospital, was way past lunch time, Wenlang invites Gao Tu to have lunch in a restaurant, but warns him that this is not the celebratory outing.

“Huh, celebrating?” he asks in the car on their way to the restaurant.

“Yes, we have to celebrate our compatibility” he sneaks a fast kiss on Gao Tu's hand. Gao Tu feels warm, Wenlang can be so sweet. 

After lunch they went to do some shopping for things they needed. Once they were back at home Gao Tu went to the bathroom, chance Wenlang took to text Hua Yong, he sent the picture he had taken at the hospital of the test results.

Shen Wenlang: We are fated pairs 

                       [happy wolf sticker]

                       [cheering wolf sticker]

                       [happy wolf sticker]

Lunatic: Huh. All you are missing now is to frame it [rolling eyes emoji]

            Congrats.

Wenlang sends him a selfie with the paper framed

Shen Wenlang: I already did.

Lunatic: Dumbass. 

Later that night Gao Tu intended to text Shaoyou but he was faster and was spamming him.

Sheng Shaoyou: Is it true?

                         A-Tu is true you and Wenlang are fated pairs?

                         A-Tuuuuuuuuuu.

                         A-Tuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu.

Gao Tu: [smiling rabbit sticker]

             Yes, it is true. 

Sheng Shaoyou: I thought fated pairs weren’t real at all.

Gao Tu: We have 100% of compatibility, I think that's what people call fated pairs?

Sheng Shaoyou: How does it feel?

Gao Tu: I'm not sure, I still can’t feel anything.

            Wenlang is the most affected by merged pheromones.

Sheng Shaoyou: So you are saying even his body crashed down for you too hard? Lololol

                         A-Tu, what a heartbreaker.

Gao Tu laughs and can’t help but wonder, what if they are a fated pair as well? Hua Yong would probably be posting the results everyw- What is that? Gao Tu stops scrolling on the WeChat moments when he sees Wenlang’s post, he had posted the picture of the compatibility test framed leaving the names blurred and added: ‘Is weird how many shapes happiness has and how it hits you out of nowhere’ [bunny, wolf and heart emoji].

Chapter Text

After Gao Tu sees the image immediately goes looking for Wenlang, on his way he had already received a couple messages from people from the office asking him if he knew, by any chance, who was the mysterious partner, he had replied to them he didn’t know, that president Shen doesn’t share that information with him. 

Gao Tu finds Wenlang in his study with his elbows on the desk and his head resting in his hands as he stares at the framed test, he seems pretty deep in thought.

“Wenlang!” He looks at him and smiles at Gao Tu.

“Yes?” Gao Tu seems flustered and walks up to him and places his phone on the desk in front of Wenlang.

“Why did you post it?” Wenlang takes the phone and sees his posts chuckling at it remembering Hua Yong had messaged him right after he posted it.

Lunatic: It’s official, you have gone crazy.

Shen Wenlang:[smiley face and middle finger emoji]

 

“Why not?” 

“People will see it” Wenlang frowns and looks at Gao Tu. What is wrong with it?

“So? Shaoyou and Hua Yong know” he was feeling hurt and a certain annoyance was building in.

“People at work”  he points out, trying to show some light to the situation, but for Wenlang it only hurt him further, was he trying their relationship like a secret from others that weren’t the psychotic couple?

“I don’t mind them knowing” then Wenlang stares at him “or you… were planning to keep this as a secret?” he sounded hurt, he squeezed the phone in his hand.

“Is not like that… im concerned about your reputation” he mumbles, Wenlang looks at him still with his eyebrows frowned. 

“What are you even saying?” Gao Tu exhales, it is hard to put it in words “are you ashamed of being with me? Do we have to hide? Deny we are together?” Gao Tu eyes widened, and quickly shakes his head and places his hands over Wenlang’s, his thoughts were on what if they start trashing Wenlang’s name? If they say he was an alpha tricked by a cunning omega?

“No, no, no. It is not that, Wenlang!” his voice sounded louder than he intended “Is just…  I hid the truth from a lot of people and I don’t want that… hurting… you. I’m an omega… not a beta” 

How is that supposedly going to affect him? There is no way that him being an omega would drag him, hell he even blurred his name because he thought Gao Tu would be too shy to have it out there! Where is this doubt coming from? Earlier everything was so nice.Then a click. Right then is where Wenlang sees how his past words and insults had come back to bite his ass. He realizes the weight of the stigma he had towards omegas had imprinted on Gao Tu and how his harsh words had deeply hurt and marked him. He brushes his own hair, annoyed, angry at himself, he takes both of Gao Tu’s hands and presses them in his forehead. 

“Im sorry, Gao Tu” hearing him saying his name for the first time in these days didn’t feel right at all, he tries meeting Wenlang’s eyes, but is not possible “Im so sorry” Wenlang’s voice sounds shattered “Im so sorry for hurting you all this time” Gao Tu stays quiet feeling how his eyes start to burn “I’m sorry… I’m sorry” Wenlang kept muttering apologies. Gao Tu walks around the desk and hugs his head brushing his hair, he knows Wenlang is crying, he feels like crying too, but he tries to hold it until he can’t and a tear slides down his cheek.

Wenlang let his hands go to hug him and pull him closer. It hurts him, it hurts him realizing that his words had been carving into Gao Tu; the rejection to his omega side, guilt. He had contributed to that. 

“Im sorry” he mumbles again “I hurt you” 

Silence falls between them, they keep hugging and comforting. The ambient feels dense and loaded with emotions. After awhile they calmed down, Gao Tu was sitting on Wenlang’s lap after he pulled into him, Wenlang’s hands were on Gao Tu’s face, Gao Tu had a hand brushing Wenlang’s cheek. 

“Gao Tu. I'm really so-” Gao Tu shushes him with his finger and shakes his head softly.

“Stop” Wenlang looks at him and drops his hands from his face and meets his waist.

“But I-” he is silenced one more time.

“You have said it plenty of times already” he pauses “Listen, what you have said in the past did hurt me. It is true” Wenlang lowers his gaze “but I don’t think that is all of “you”, I know what kind of person you are Wenlang, I have been by your side long enough to know it. And despite everything, I still love you” Wenlang looks at him, feeling like crying again “Being with you like this is something I never imagined I would have, it feels like a dream” Wenlang purses his lips “There is no way I am ashamed or would try to deny being with you, but I'm scared of the future” he admits “I have… hid the fact that I am an omega since I presented, I have only lived like a beta all these years” he takes a deep breath “and I don’t want that hurting you either” 

“I don’t care about others” Wenlang says looking at Gao Tu’s eyes  “if… that hurts you, I will do whatever you want me to” a small smile appears on Gao Tu’s face.

“Can we… just… wait and see how the office reacts to… me not being a beta?” Wenlang nods, sounds fair. It is true, Gao Tu has to adapt to his new lifestyle “I think it should be fine after…”

“So… can I openly pursue you in the office after?” Gao Tu chuckles and shakes his head softly lifting his shoulders showing he gives up “Good” he already has some ideas coming up “what about the post, do you want me to delete it?” Gao Tu stares at him, then blinks.

“I… think it should be okay the way it is” meaning; not posting his name or face. Wenlang nods, it doesn’t sound too bad “What… are you going to say to the people who ask you about the test?” Wenlang’s lips curve into a playful smile.

“Not telling” Gao Tu frowns “that is what im telling them. Who would have the courage to dig deeper?” Gao Tu sighs, that's how he is after all. Then a sudden idea crosses Gao Tu’s mind.

“Won’t people think you have a high compatibility with secretary Hua?” Wenlang’s expression suddenly turns sour and disgusted, why Hua Yong’s figure has been lurking on them since the morning? “After all he is the only omega close to president Shen”

“Shit”  he extends one of his hands to get his phone thinking about deleting it right away, Gao Tu puts a hand on his arm and stops him, Wenlang looks at him without understanding “Baobei?”  Gao Tu smiles, one of his business killer smiles, the kind that doesn’t show sincerity and highly has a second meaning; is threatening.

“It is not necessary to delete it, Wenlang. Everyone already saw it” Wenlang curses himself, can he blame the merged pheromones? He rushed, once again. He opens his mouth to try and say something, but Gao Tu shushes him with his finger again, but this time it feels different… It made Wenlang’s heart beat differently “Jiayou, president Shen, I will be rooting for you both” his face drops, he didn’t know he would see Gao Tu’s office side like this, he tries to hug him but Gao Tu leaves his lap swiftly “I will sleep on my room tonight, good night” he smiles at him one last time before taking his phone back and turning his back.

“Tut-, Baobe- wait” he tried to call him to make him stop, he trampled his words and it didn’t work. He had already closed the door behind him.

When Gao Tu was back at his room he laughed, Wenlang’s expression had been funny, he knows there is nothing going between them and how Wenlang has done everything to clear up the misunderstanding, still, he thinks this is enough to get back at him for putting him in between their plan that played with his feelings. 

That night after he had done the preparations to sleep he seemed unable to feel asleep, for some reason the bed felt uncomfortable, the sheets didn’t feel warm enough, the pillows felt not good enough. Despite that he still tried, he tossed around a few times, kicked the bedsheets… but nothing worked, not even the good old technique of just letting one foot outside the sheets worked. He knows what he is missing and doesn’t want to give in, he had already teased him about sleeping alone, just one last try and if it doesn’t work…. A full hour had gone by since he tried to fall asleep, Gao Tu exhales, annoyed and gets up takes a pillow with him and drags his feet to Wenlang’s door and knocks softly, he hears Wenlang letting him in and he does, his hair seems a little bit disheveled and the bedsheets are undone.

“What is wrong?” he asks, sitting in the bed. Gao Tu just looks at him.

“I can’t sleep” he admits, bitterly, Wenlang tries to fight a smile, and opens the bedsheets gesturing to him to come close. Gao Tu does it and sits on the edge, showing his back to Wenlang, he remembers what he said and feels embarrassed.  Wenlang ends up pulling him into an embrace “Wenlang” 

“Yes?” he asks with a playful smile, he already knows. Gao Tu just purses his lips, frustrated, he really pretended to sleep by himself, but Wenlang’s warmth had undeniably helped him sleep better these days, he breaks apart and rolls to face him. Wenlang seems satisfied “Are you sleeping here tonight?” he asks, teasing him, Gao Tu narrows his eyes, uh bad signal “Okay, okay. Good night” he hurries himself, kisses him on the forehead, turns off the lights and waits for Gao Tu to get comfortable in his arms. 

Shen Wenlang won’t admit it, but before Gao Tu left his own room to his; he was already at his door practicing what to say to convince him to sleep together.

“It’s cold, can I get in?” absolutely believably, is not like his house has a perfect AC system (it definitely does) 

“My mattress is too stiff, can I try yours?” yes because that didn’t sound suspicious at all. 

“Can I borrow your charger?” Well, his excuses weren’t the best. 

He was in the middle of coming up with another idea when he heard steps in the room, he practically ran to his, closes the door and gets in bed trying to look casual, his bedsheets were all over the place product of his unsuccessful attempts to fall asleep, he tries fixing them, they look better, but still undone. 

The next morning Gao Tu helped Wenlang setting the neutralizer and after that they were preparing breakfast together. Wenlang was still clingy, had him close with one arm wrapped in his waist and occasionally kissing his cheek as he helped him. Gao Tu left the cups on the further side of the counter and Wenlang trapped him with his arms and the counter, slowly leaned in close to his lips not touching them.  

“Can you kiss me?” Gao Tu holds his gaze, debating if he should, is not like he doesn’t want to, is just… he gets shy and embarrassed easily, and Wenlang likes that. At the end Gao Tu leans in and pecks his lips really fast “Just that?” he teases, Gao Tu glares at him then pecks him again. 

Wenlang smiles, places his hand on Gao Tu’s cheek and pulls his head closer for a deeper and wet kiss which Gao Tu doesn’t reject, even more; he corresponds it as his hands slide from Wenlang’s lower back to his shoulder blades. Sounds fill the room as they pull the other closer, Wenlang’s hands go from Gao Tu’s waist to his hip where he presses his fingers and then lifts Gao Tu sitting him on the counter top then he uses his hands to support himself putting them on Gao Tu’s sides while Gao Tu’s arms hugs Wenlang’s neck as he is getting between Gao Tu’s legs.

“Wenlang” Gao Tu mumbles breathless when they break apart, still close “I don’t think the neutralizer is working” Wenlang kisses his lips then smiles without parting.

“Lets find out” and devours his lips again, one of his hands is now trailing Gao Tu from his waist to his chest and ends up going all the way up to his face where it rests. Wenlang then moves from Gao Tu’s mouth to his neck and the base of his neck in a slow movement.

“We-Wenlang” the wolf stops right there, this isn’t the way he wants to do things. Gao Tu’s body needs to recover from the inhibitors first, he needs to control himself “Wenlang” he looks at Gao Tu whose eyes were almost completely lost in lust and had a shaky breath coming out his parted lips which were bright and glossy; appetizing. Wenlang curses himself.

“Sorry… I… rushed things again” Gao Tu shuts his eyes and steadies his breath, then shakes his head.

“It’s okay” he tries pulling Wenlang close again, but Wenlang doesn’t budge, his conscience is tormenting him “Wenlang” he calls him, he locks eyes with him, Gao Tu touches his cheek “One last kiss, please?”  Gao Tu might be the end of him some day, and he doesn’t care, he loves it. Wenlang indulges him in a last kiss; passionate, hungry, demanding “one more…” he asks after that kiss that has left him hungrier.

“You need to recover first” he says after they break apart, his voice sounds a bit shaky “After you recover I will do anything you want me to”  Gao Tu pouts and nods, the disappointment is notorious. 

Friday and Saturday went by, on sunday they went to pick up Gao Tu’s remaining stuff and canceled his lease, they had a good time unpacking his things, turns out Gao Tu still holded dear some things from all these years, small things Wenlang didn’t thought much of them when he gave them to him. 

And finally Monday arrived, it’s the day Gao Tu goes back to the office, and at the same time, Shen Wenlang decides to finally go to the office as well. The days with the neutralizer seemed pretty much the same, with the difference Wenlang took a bit longer to reflect before speaking, aside from that he was still the same touchy man who was also good at giving him that kind of kisses that left him hungry for more of his touch, Wenlang had agreed on going a bit further after Gao Tu practically demanded so, but agreed not going all the way until he had recovered. 

At the office the rumours were already running wild, Gao Tu catched a few on the hallway; there was already the theory going on claiming that president Shen had taken days off to accompany Hua Yong (who was also missing from the office) in his heat and that they were fated pairs according to president Shen’s post, part of Gao Tu was amused by hearing how wild things get. When he had informed HR about his current status they didn’t make much of a fuss taking the new information, they just requested him to fill a form and that was about it. 

When he told the general secretary he took it quite well, Gao Tu had apologized for hiding it and apologized for further inconveniences it might cause. 

“So you are an omega as well secretary Gao” he sighed as he poured a cup of coffee, he sounded a bit disencouraged which concerned Gao Tu “It would had been so good if you and president Shen were the fated pair” Gao Tu chokes in with his tea, coughs and looks at him in disbelief.

“Sorry?” the other secretary looked at his cup with a tint of nostalgia? What is going on?

“Well, I think secretary Gao understands president Shen the best and president Shen seems to like you quite a lot” he swirl his cup “I heard he submitted new protocols to HR that protects omegas in the work environment, but I never thought the cause would be secretary Hua” Gao Tu holds his breath, when did Wenlang do that? “Love is weird… Don't you think so, secretary Gao?”  he nods, he needs to have a conversation with Wenlang after “If it were you with Mr. Shen, I would be rooting for you”  he pats him in the arm before going back to his station leaving Gao Tu feeling like in outer space. 

The moment Gao Tu has to deliver the first report to Wenlang after so long, he is nervous, he can feel his heart jumping with excitement, he prepares his tea on the usual tray, the same way he always has, he hesitates a bit before knocking, once he hears Wenlang’s come in he opens it  and finds him with his usual serious posture going through documents writing with his fountain pen, the moment Wenlang looks at him a small smile draws in his lips.

“Good morning president Shen”  he says placing the tray on the desk “your tea, and your schedule” he places the folder too and slides it, Wenlang brushes his fingers by accident while grabbing it.

“Good morning secretary Gao” .

The first day of them back the office had a lot of accidental brushes in the hands courtesy of Wenlang and was mostly uneventful. On their way home on Wenlang’s car Gao Tu brought up the main gossip in the office.

“So it seems president Shen’s fated pair is secretary Hua” Wenlang sighs.

“Well at least it is not that bad I guess” he says the light of the traffic light changes to yellow.

“They also said you took days off to assist secretary Hua’s heat” Wenlang looks at him with his mouth almost touching the floor.

“Tell me you are joking” Gao Tu snorts and shakes his head “For real?!”  Gao Tu ends up laughing.

“Well your plan worked, didn’t it? Everyone thought you two are a thing” Wenlang brushes his hair, goddamn that lunatic’s plan had made things annoying. He tries to think on how to fix this, is it even fixable?

Gao Tu was laughing at him, Wenlang had really amusing reactions to the news.

Days went by and their next check up was scheduled, they went to it and got a recount of merged pheromones, everything seems alright, at least on the medical side. But Wenlang was still the same at home, clingy and touchy so he brings it up to the doctor who stares at him, then looks at Wenlang and back to Gao Tu. The doctor seemed conflicted on how to address it, he clears his throat and says:

“Mr. Gao… have you considered your partner is… just intense?” Wenlang feels his ears burning up, and diverts his gaze. Gao Tu had his answer and couldn’t help but feel shy about it. 

When Gao Tu’s first heat came out of inhibitors he was admitted to the hospital as they had previously agreed on, luckily Gao Tu was able to tell when his heat seemed to be coming. He had to spend a week on the guard and wasn’t allowed to have visitors, much less an alpha’s visitor, still, there was no day Wenlang missed showing up to the hospital on the reception to send him a drink or snacks along with a note. Everytime Wenlang was back at home after visiting the house felt immensely big and quiet, he had hard times falling asleep; he was used to having his bunny’s warm beside him… Gao Tu’s pillow basically became his substitute for that long week that felt like an eternity, it smelt just like him. 

The day he was discharged Wenlang hugged him tighter than ever and it was hard for him to let him go even in the doctor’s office; but he was able to confirm his need for Gao Tu’s physical touch by holding his hand. 

“So… I believe Mr. Gao can spend his heats safely at home now” he pauses, Wenlang looks at Gao Tu by the corner of his eye and turns back to the doctor “further intimacy doesn’t seem to be a problem either” they nod and he feels Gao Tu squeezing his hand “both of you need to be aware that since your compatibility is high the chances of getting pregnant during  unprotected intercourse is almost guaranteed” Gao Tu blinks at the idea of pregnancy, he finds himself not disliking the idea at all, how cute would their child be like?

Gao Tu kept thinking about the idea of expecting a child and having a family, he really likes the idea, he never had imagined himself with kids, but now? He likes the idea. As soon as they got back home they started making out as if they were making up for all the time they couldn’t be together, anxiously, clumsy, they needed to feel the other.  Gao Tu’s back was on the mattress with Wenlang on top of him kissing him almost devouring him when he taps him on the shoulder, he broke apart.

“What do you think about what the doctor said?” he asked, Wenlang looked at him without understanding, he was too focused on Gao Tu it took him a bit to snap out of it “do you like children?” Wenlang blinks and sits on the mattress, Gao Tu does the same, looking at him. 

“I… don’t really like them” his words makes Gao Tu’s heart ache “but” he seems more deep on thought this time “if it is ours” he takes Gao Tu’s hand and kisses it “I will love them very much” Gao Tu smiles “do you want one now?” Gao Tu’s smile drops. He knows what he is thinking.

“Too soon for a kid” Wenlang nods and Gao Tu kisses him allowing Wenlang to devour him. 

Time goes by and after a week Gao Tu was back at the office Wenlang begun his courting plan, he would take him out at lunch when they didn't have any business meeting and take him on dates the days they were free or after visiting Gao Qing who had taken the news of them dating quite well after the initial shock. He also started dropping small gifts for Gao Tu, especially at the office, there’s a specific gift Gao Tu liked.

One day when he arrived at his desk after delivering papers to a different department he found a small and cute figurine of a rabbit with a wolf, the next day it was another pair of a rabbit and a wolf, both of them small and pretty cute. That night he received a message from Shaoyou.

Shen Shaoyou: Do you know him? Lololol

                       [picture]

The picture had a man, clearly it was Wenlang, he could recognize his back and the clothes he was wearing anywhere with a plastic bag full of gachapon capsules twisting the handle of a machine, he zoomed in and on the front the sets available were visible it was the same set of figures he had on his desk, so there is where he had gotten them, he chuckles; that man can be cute too. Then Shaoyou sends him another picture that was from more afar, in this one has Wenlang exchanging capsules with a bunch of children, then another picture, he is giving them the bag full of capsules. 

Gao Tu: Yes, i do.

He sent him a picture of the tiny figures that accompany him on his desk.

Shen Wenlang’s post about his unknown fated partner were still going on, not too frequent, but it was about dates they would have, always with a caption that included a bunny a wolf and a heart. The first person realizing it was actually Gao Tu and Wenlang was the general secretary, he noticed the figures and connected the dots. He congratulated him right away and promised to keep it a secret. Which didn’t really last long, two days later Gao Tu posted one of their night dates spots, it had Wenlang’s back on the picture and a fountain illuminated the caption said ‘happiness [bunny, wolf and heart emoji]’  short, precise and concise. In the office rumors about president Shen being a heartless man playing with omega’s feelings ran wild. 

It was interesting to read both of their post, Wenlang usually posted long captions on his WeChat posts about Gao Tu, when it was regarding to work was mostly one or two words, but for Gao Tu’s it was a really long and heartful caption always with the same set of emojis. Gao Tu’s on the other hand, he really didn’t post much, just occasionally some of their dates or outings with Shaoyou and sometimes Hua Yong, the four of them had become pretty close with time. One day he posted a selfie of the four of them and any rumor in the office about president Shen playing with two omegas was buried. 

In a blink of an eye, the rainy season arrived. One night after work Gao Tu was cuddling with Wenlang on the sofa like usual when Gao Tu received a text.

Shen Shaoyou: Can you open me the door, please?

Gao Tu gets up and gets the door, he finds a soaked Shaoyou with red eyes and a carry on, Gao Tu blinks and before he can even process Shaoyou hugs him and cries with loud sobs.

“A-Tu. H-he lied” he said, Gao Tu didn’t understand but hugged him back and made him enter, Wenlang joined right after he heard the sobs, shocked at the scene.

“Sheng Shaoyou?” he asks, Shaoyou breaks his head apart from Gao Tu and stares at him, angry.

“You knew. You lying bastard” Gao Tu holds Shaoyou more tightly and looks at Wenlang without understanding and looks at Shaoyou “You knew Hua Yong is an Enigma, you deceiving bastard” he points at Wenlang and feels how tears build up again in his eyes and a knot forms in his throat. Gao Tu’s eyes widened at Wenlang.

“You knew?” he asks, Wenlang seems shocked and doesn’t know what to say “Shen Wenlang, did you know?” Wenlang exhales.

“Yes, I did” admits and Gao Tu shots him a disappointed look and shakes his head, he seems disgusted and that hurts Wenlang.

“Mr. Sheng, come with me” he tries to drag him and his bag to the room he used for the first time he came to Wenlang’s home.

“Please don’t call me like that” he pleads with his broken voice, and weakly walks with him, not letting him go. 

At the room Gao Tu holded Shaoyou who collapsed on the floor, he felt too weak to take in this information. He had considered Hua Yong had been hiding things from him, but not this, not him being the cause of his pheromones issue. Shaoyou was heartbroken, the person he thought he knew, the person he thought he had gotten to know wasn’t that and he had been willingly hidden from him. 

Gao Tu took care of him, he gave space to Shaoyou to cry all he needed, then he helped him get in the bathtub, he also helped him dressing his pajamas and dried his hair in silence. 

“Do you want to eat something, Shaoyou?” he nodded “Wait for me here, okay? Don’t move” Gao Tu tucks him before going to the kitchen, Wenlang follows him and tries to talk to him “Not now, Wenlang. Not now” he places in a tray part of what had been their dinner and goes back to the room after heating it up, everything in silence under Wenlang’s eyes.

Wenlang had been trying to contact Hua Yong, but he wasn’t picking up his calls, not even his messages. He sends a message to Gao Tu letting him know he was going to check on Hua Yong and to please hear him out later. 

Wenlang arrives at Shaoyou's home where he finds Hua Yong in the living room surrounded by Shaoyou’s drawn portraits. His eyes seemed empty, Wenlang placed a hand on his shoulder, Hua Yong looked at him with the same emptiness, and a tear rolled down his cheek.

“Gao Tu is taking care of him” Hua Yong nods “What happened?” 

“He found out” he says, simply “He was on a business trip… and found out I'm not an omega… that I’m the reason his pheromones had been crazy and.. and… that X holdings is…” he sobs, for the first time Wenlang hears him sob, he pats his back, not knowing how to comfort him.

“Did… he said something to you?” 

“He hates me” 

Silence falls between them, Wenlang is well aware of these two feelings for each other, and also knows Hua Yong’s lies had been pretty much bad. If it were a way for Shaoyou to forgive him it would be only because that man is a saint.

A week goes by, Shaoyou was staying with Gao Tu and he was taking care of his heartbroken friend. Wenlang had gone to stay with Hua Yong, it didn’t sit right with him leaving him alone, specially after seeing those lifeless eyes, it took two days to recover for Hua Yong, to try pleading with Shaoyou to hear him, to let him prove his love, but it didn’t work, Shaoyou would hang up or not see his messages. At the seventh day he showed up at Wenlang’s home with him behind him, he had tried to not let him barge in, but was impossible, at that time Shaoyou was resting in the room, he had hardly left that room, it was mostly Gao Tu bringing him food and staying with him, watching tv together in silence, comforting him. 

“Mr. Sheng” he calls loudly, Gao Tu signs Shaoyou to stay in the room and he leaves the room to find Hua Yong in the living room looking everywhere trying to find him “Mr. Gao, where is Mr. Sheng?” Gao Tu crosses his arms.

“I don’t think it is a good time, Mr. Hua” Hua Yong falls to his knees, Gao Tu eyes widens 

“Please, let me talk to him” he pleads, looking at Gao Tu’s eyes “Please I need to talk to Mr. Sheng” Gao Tu feels taken aback “I love him. I truly do. I need him without him I’m no one”   

“Hua Yong, please get up” Gao Tu tries to help him up, but Hua Yong refuses. Upon hearing those words Shaoyou gets closer and sees Hua Yong tugging Gao Tu’s sleeve from the floor, begging. 

“I need him, please. Let me talk to him”  Shaoyou feels his heart ache, despite his lies, he still loves Hua Yong, yes he might be a fool, but he is deeply in love with him.

“I will give you ten minutes” Gao Tu turns and sees Shaoyou walking towards them.

“Are you sure, Shaoyou?” he nods, Hua Yong is staring at Shaoyou and lets go of Gao Tu’s clothes, he had a bit of beard growing up, his hair was brushed but a bit messy, but his eyes seemed saddened. 

Gao Tu didn’t really want to leave them alone, but Shaoyou’s gestures are okay, he would handle it, he leaves the place with Wenlang following him, he takes his arm.

“We need to talk too” says the alpha Gao Tu looks at him, then switches to the floor.

“Okay” 

Wenlang explains to Gao Tu the whole friendship he has with Hua Yong, he tells him too that he was waiting for Hua Yong to tell the truth to Shaoyou, but he took too long and this is how things turned out. He didn’t want to betray Hua Yong’s trust by divulging his secret, so he couldn't tell Gao Tu either, so he asked him to please forgive him.

“Please… let this be the last time you hide something big like this. I understand he is your friend and you were in a complicated position. But please… Wenlang” the alpha nods and hugs him.

“I missed you so much” Gao Tu corresponds to the embrace.

“I missed you too” 

By the time they got back Hua Yong and Shaoyou had made up, Shaoyou had a golden pocket watch on his hand which he didn’t stop looking at. They packed his things and Hua Yong thanked Gao Tu for taking care of Mr. Sheng.

With the arrival of their second spring together news came in; Gao Tu had woken up one day feeling extremely unwell, he had to rush to throw up, Wenlang followed him a bit in panic. They had recently spent Gao Tu’s heat together and were worried about his health, Wenlang practically ran to the hospital with Gao Tu to get him checked, to their surprise the doctor announced to them they were expecting a child.  Gao Tu was happy while Wenlan was trying to propose to him, but Gao Tu turned it down. 

The pregnancy went well, Gao Tu had cravings and usually Wenlang would try to solve them, Wenlang would often give Gao Tu massages and reduced his work hours -he actually wanted Gao Tu to stop working all along to take care of his body, but he refused every time- when they found out they were expecting a child, Wenlang posted about it on WeChat, old habits die hard, his post was pretty much saying how worried and happy he was with the same set of emojis. During summer, Shaoyou and Hua Yong find out they are expecting a child as well after Shaoyou had accepted Hua Yong’s marriage proposal, unlike Gao Tu’s  pregnancy Shoayou’s pregnancy was more complex.

[Three years later] 

“Daddy Wenlang wake up. Daddy Wenlang wake up!” a kid managed to climb into the bed where Wenlang was sleeping in and called him non stop, he even started jumping by his side calling him louder “Daddy Wenlang wake up!” he demanded one more time before turning to the door after hearing rushing footsteps.

“Peanut! Don’t wake up Baba! Papa said he needs to sleep!”  Peanut frowns looking at the other kid.

“But is late and he has to eat breakfast with us” the other kid shakes his head.

“I know, but papa said to let him sleep more. He stayed up too late!” He climbs on the bed as well and tries to grab the other kid's arm.

“I don’t want to, Lele!” he protested “Daddy Wenlang needs to eat with us!” they hear a rustle and both turn to the adult sleeping on the bed “Daddy Wenlang!” he insisted, Wenlang frowns.

“See? Baba is tired” Wenlang smiles, and gives up a nap, he opens his eyes and looks at them.

“Good morning, Lele, Peanut” Peanut laughs amused and proud.

“See Lele? He is not tired! Daddy Wenlang lets go eat breakfast” Wenlang chuckles, he is stubborn just like his father. 

At the end Wenlang stretches and gets up, puts a sweater on and before he walks out of the room he takes both kids one on each arm and carries them to the living room where he leaves them on the floor, he sees them running to the kitchen talking really loud. He yawns again and goes past the living room shelf that has multiple congratulative trophies and plates to the HS Group for their innovations on work environments in goals of integrity respecting the ABO agreement. 

In the kitchen he sees the kids tugging the clothes of the other grown up, Peanut points at Wenlang.

“Daddy Wenlang is awake Daddy A-Tu!” he yells, Gao Tu looks at him with a smile.

“Thank you Peanut” Peanut nudges Lele in the arm.

“See?! Even Daddy A-Tu is happy Daddy Wenlang is awake!”  he takes Lele hand “let’s play!” 

“Peaanut” Lele tries to protest, but Peanut already dragged him out of the kitchen. Gao Tu laughs and Wenlang hugs him from behind.

“Good morning, Baobei” he says kissing his cheek, Gao Tu touches his cheek with his left hand where a silver band is visible and kisses him back”.

“Good morning” Wenlang nuzzles his nose on Gao Tu’s neck where there is a mark and kisses it “I tried to prevent Peanut, but you know him” Wenlang nods.

“It's fine” then he sighs “Sometimes I forget how many kids we have, when are they coming back?” Gao Tu goes back to whisk the pancake mix.

“Soon, it’s their honeymoon, let them be. I like having Peanut here” Wenlang catches Gao Tu's left hand and kisses the ring.

“When are we having ours? It took long enough for you to accept my proposal, Lele was two when we finally got married” Gao Tu chuckles.

“Well we got busy after that didn’t we? HS Group collaborating in reforming the ABO equality  agreement on work environment policies took quite a lot of time” Wenlang sighs, indeed, had been a lot of time.

“We should go on our honeymoon when they get back” he nuzzles again “Maybe we could be back with a sister or brother for Lele from it” Gao Tu taps him in the head really softly “ouch” 

“So early and you are already thinking on that, pervert” 

“Yes, I am” Gao Tu turns to look at him which Wenlang takes to lean in and kiss him “I love you” 

“I love you too, Wenlang” he says, kissing him back.

From the kitchen they can hear the laughter of the kids playing in the living room filling the house.

Chapter Text

The next morning Gao Tu woke up slowly, it’s been awhile since he had slept so well, for the first time after awhile he felt refreshed after waking up. He lazily opened his eyes then shut them again before even focusing and snuggled rubbing his cheek to the… pillow? It felt too warm to be a pillow, he lifts up his head and finds Wenlang barely holding back a smile and ends up letting go a soft chuckle as he covers his mouth while Gao Tu tries to not meet his eyes, flustered.  

Had he… fell asleep during the movie? but how did he end up laying on top of Wenlang? Did they sleep through the whole night like this? He feels his face burning and tries to not look at him. He incorporates his head and looks around pretending to look around the room, glasses, yes, he… needed his glasses. 

“What are you looking for?” he hears Wenlang asking, but doesn't meet his eyes. To Wenlang; Gao Tu looked like a bunny peeking out his head from his warren watching out for predators or a potential danger. 

“M-my glasses” he doesn’t even try to look at him, he feels utterly embarrassed. 

“Here, look at me,Tutu” Wenlang had taken them from the coffee table, Gao Tu had stopped looking for them and turned slowly to face Wenlang “there you go” 

Before he could even extend his hand to take them Wenlang was placing the glasses on Gao Tu’s face then slid a hand on Gao Tu’s face brushing his cheek with his thumb, looking, appreciating his features. Ah, this had to be happiness. Wenlang places a short kiss on Gao Tu’s lips and then hugs him pressing him more to his body, he puts his nose in Gao Tu’s neck smelling the faint sage aroma, it soothes him, like his warmth does.

“I love you” Wenlang whispers. Gao Tu incorporates sitting quickly on the sofa. Wenlang incorporates under Gao Tu’s shocked face “What's wrong?” he asks rather lively. but for Gao Tu this doesn't adds up, is too sudden, feels out of nowhere... or is it? certainly Wenlang doesn't seem the type to be fooling around, heck, in the years he had known him Wenlang basically only had his eyes on a the goal of expanding HS Group and nothing else. 

“What did you just say?” His voice sounds a bit shaken up. Wenlang tilts his head.

“I love you, Tutu” he repeats, unshakable, determined. 

Wenlang had woken up earlier than Gao Tu that morning and spent that time guarding Gao Tu’s sleep detailing his features, his eyebrows, his eyelashes, his nose… his lips, Gao Tu’s lips have a really beautiful shape, his cupid arc is perfectly round, heart shaped. His thoughts had kept diverting thinking about how it felt spending time together, it hadn't been much time living together, but everything felt right, like it had always been like that. He can’t help but compare the times he came back from the office to be alone there; the times he would randomly text Gao Tu even without a good reason or even videocall him during his business trips because he felt lonely. Just how blind he had been? Always looking for an excuse to talk with him, to see him because when Gao Tu was with him he felt at peace, calm, at home coming up with a resolution.  

The resolution? screw his courting plan he's not using it anymore, well not completely. He can’t wait to tell him how he feels for him, he needs to make Gao Tu aware of his feelings, his intentions. He is confident he has good chances and even if it was against the odds, he would do anything to court him and have him by his side, he needs Gao Tu. 

“But I'm an omega” Gao Tu replies ashamed of himself.

“So?” he is unfazed, he had already realized he would love him anyway. It doesn’t matter if he is a beta or an omega, that doesn’t change his feelings. 

“You hate us” he lowers his gaze. He has heard Wenlang’s hate comments towards omegas for so long, each of them hurt him, it’s been so long like this. Wenlang takes one of Gao Tu’s hands in his.

“Tutu, look at me” Gao Tu does it “I can’t possibly ever hate you. Even if you are an omega, I still love you” Gao Tu feels his heart ache.

Shen Wenlang is telling him he loves him and sounds very genuine there's not a single shadow of doubt in him. Gao Tu remembers all the times he wanted to give up his love for Wenlang, but ultimately never could, part of his naive heart was still hopeful for Wenlang’s affection, not even his love, but his affection. He was willing to be by his side the longest his heart would allow him, even if his feelings weren't reciprocated. Gao Tu feels Wenlang's hands in his face, he is brushing off tears he wasn't aware were sliding in his face. 

“I… want you to be with me” Wenlang continues “Please, be by my side” Gao Tu places his own hands on Wenlang’s and nods softly. Wenlang let his forehead meet Gao Tu’s “Thank you” then he moves and leans to kiss Gao Tu’s lips “I swear I will make you happy” 

Wenlang captures Gao Tu’s lips in a tender and a slow peaced kiss, Gao Tu was kissing him back allowing himself to feel all the emotions; that long timed unrequited love was finally becoming requited, there was no need to try giving up anymore, no more bitterness in the nights where he wished he could just stop loving him, Wenlang had turned all those feelings upside down in the best way possible.  

After the kiss Gao Tu’s back was leaning against Wenlang’s chest, they were still on the sofa, cuddling. Wenlang was playing with Gao Tu’s hands trailing his fingers one by one as they were talking and planning what to do that day.

“Don’t you have to be at the office?” Gao Tu had turned his head to look at Wenlang’s eyes; he just shook his head.

“No” confirmed before kissing his cheek briefly. 

“You… are skipping work” it wasn’t a question, it was a statement, Wenlang pursed his lips.

“Im not” Gao Tu didn’t seem to agree. “They can handle these things without me there. If the office needs anything they can e-mail it or just come for my signature”  Gao Tu frowned. 

“Wenlang, you should be at the office” he can only imagine the distress the secretaries are going through with the president absent.

“I don’t want to” he hugs Gao Tu tightly “I need to nurse my Baobei” Gao Tu looks at him, turns his head to the front and shakes it “What?” he says, slightly amused by his reaction. Then he feels Gao Tu’s hand in his head hitting him one time, softly “ouch”

“Silly” he feels Wenlang’s chin on his shoulder. Suddenly the image of that limey drink pops in the wolf’s head.  

“Why didn't you drink it?” he asks, trying to see his face.

“Drink what?” Gao Tu turns in the same direction Wenlang is looking at him.

“The limey bottle” Gao Tu blushes and jerks his head away and mumbles something Wenlang doesn’t catch “hmm?” 

“Because you gave it to me, I just couldn’t drink it”  Wenlang feels moved, it had been so long and Gao Tu still kept it, just how special he was for him?

“Do you love me?” he blurts out trying to catch a glimpse of Gao Tu’s face, but he only can see a bit of his cheeks colored in pink, Gao Tu doesn’t move his eyes glued in the further chair’s arm. He sees him nod, just how more blissful it could get? Of course he had a hunch and was practically confirmed when Gao Tu accepted to be with him, but he needed to hear those words from him, he didn’t even know how badly he wanted it before Gao Tu nodded “Can you say it? please” he pleaded, trying to lean in to see Gao Tu’s face.

“It’s embarrassing”  said, moving his head to the opposite side where Wenlang was leaning.

“Fine” he places his chin on Gao Tu’s shoulder again “I will make you say it. I will make you fall for me over and over” he was completely confident on it “and I won't stop until you have no other choice but to tell me those words” was a threat? Surely, a sweet one. 

Hearing Shen Wenlang like this felt unreal, but the determination in his voice, his warm wrapping him up in his arms made it real, very real. He knows the extent Wenlang is willing to go just to get something he wants, he has seen it at work and on his side as his friend. He feels Wenlang pressing his lips on his shoulder.

“Lets get up, go wash your face. I will prepare breakfast” Gao Tu moves forward on the sofa  giving him space to move his legs off.

After Wenlang gets up looks at Gao Tu who was still on the sofa; he looks at him and Wenlang leans in to brush his lips on Gao Tu’s then extend a hand to him, Gao Tu takes it and gets up. As soon as Wenlang turns his back Gao Tu hugs him briefly.

“I love you” he says without facing him, and practically runs away after saying it leaving a frozen alpha standing up in the living room. 

He wishes he could have seen his face, or his lips saying it. He had just missed probably the most embarrassed face Gao Tu could make, but it was okay, for now that is, he knows how it sounds, he wants to see him now. Wenlang places cups on the counter as his mind repeats his shy hug, he had barely felt his arms wrapping him before he had fled. His shyness… he is also fond of it, he keeps finding resemblance to a rabbit in Gao Tu and every time an strange feeling of achievement fills him. 

“Wenlang, you should go too” he hears Gao Tu entering the kitchen, he looks at him for a brief moment before going back to look for the coffee container.

“Go where?” he asks carelessly. 

“Wash your face”  says in a more stiff way.

“Do I not look good right now?” He teases winking at him. Gao Tu frowns. What kind of question is that? 

“It's not about that… just go wash your face, will you? I can take it from here” Wenlang nods and his lips curve in a playful smirk.

“Do you like my face?” he sees Gao Tu startling then sighing. That wasn’t the reaction he expected, but it still amused him.  

“Yes, yes, I do. But I like it better when it is clean” Wenlang pouts, yes, winning against Gao Tu isn’t always guaranteed. Yes, the wolf can be stubborn and pushy, but at the reduced list of people that can change his mind, his precious bunny is at the top. 

“Fine” he gives up and drags his feet out of the kitchen. 

As soon Wenlang abandons the kitchen Gao Tu's thoughts run wild, he felt like he was still dreaming, that this was a prolonged dream, if it was, he didn’t want to wake up. But Wenlang’s touch was very real, everything from it was real. On the other hand it was kinda odd having Wenlang around him like that, touchy, he didn’t expect for him to be like that, he doesn't dislikes it and he guesses it's okay to be like that with his lover. He feels his face warming up, lovers, sooo... they are really dating now. 

“There is still some cake left, do you want some?” he hears Wenlang near the kitchen looking in the fridge. Since Gao Tu didn’t reply, he looked at him “Baobei?” 

“Ah, yes, I do” 

“Have you decided what you want to do today?” Gao Tu shakes his head “We could go outside or cuddle in the sofa” Gao Tu laughs “Im serious” he says hugging him from behind placing his chin on his shoulder, it seems that was going to be Wenlang’s favorite spot for the time being.

“I know” he places a hand over Wenlang’s that was wrapping his waist “It sounds like you want to cuddle really bad, what has gotten to you?” Wenlang lifts his eyes without leaving his shoulder.

“Well, I didn’t have a bunny to cuddle with before” Gao Tu lets a hmmm out.

“Didn’t you cuddle with secretary Hua that day in the office?” he teases, Wenlang startles and quickly turns Gao Tu in his arms to look him in the face.

“Of course not! I wouldn’t touch that psycho!” Well certainly Wenlang's reactions were amusing, but that's a thought Gao Tu kept  for himself.

“But you were touching him, though. He was in your lap too” he sees Wenlang blinking fast and moving his mouth with no words coming out.

“He did that by himself!” he rushes “I didn’t know he would do that!” At this point it seems like Wenlang is working himself up trying to explain himself “He did say he would do something, when I heard the door he sat on me and pulled my hand, I wouldn’t touch him on my own will”  Gao Tu pursed his lips trying to hold a laugh, but ultimately he let a chuckle out confusing Wenlang.

“Im not interrogating you, Wenlang. I was just teasing you” he says putting his hand on Wenlang’s cheek, at the contact Wenlang tilted his head to his shoulder imprisoning his hand, he rubs against it then straightens.

“But it is important to me that you know this, I don't want to have any misunderstandings between us. Not anymore. He is my childhood so-called friend and he needed a favor… I owed it to him” Gao Tu’s chest compresses, ah Wenlang is really worried about this 

At the end, they decided that after breakfast they would stay at the sofa for a while, Gao Tu didn’t really feel like going out and Wenlang really liked the idea. Back at the sofa Wenlang was hugging Gao Tu with one hand as he checked his phone with his free hand, Gao Tu was looking at his own when he received a notification.

Sheng Shaoyou: Yesterday’s lunch was great, we should eat together the four of us more frequently    

                         [Picture]

The picture Shaoyou had sent him was the selfie Hua Yong had taken of the four before they left. It was originally Shaoyou’s idea and was the one trying to take the picture, but he kept leaving someone out of frame until Hua Yong took his phone and took the photo. In the front it was Shaoyou with Hua Yong who was doing a peace sign with his hand and at the back it were the two of them, Gao Tu was smiling shyly and Wenlang, surprisingly, was smiling for this picture. 

Then he receives another picture that has the four of them barely in frame, it was one of Shaoyou’s attempts, but Hua Yong was rolling his eyes at Wenlang who had one eye open and the other closed, Gao Tu was laughing in that picture, and Shaoyou seemed annoyed.

Gao Tu ends up laughing at the picture.

“What happened?” Wenlang asked, Gao Tu lifts him his phone showing him, he frowns “So Sheng Shaoyou’s camera skills are basically a gamble” Gao Tu laughed again “I have an idea” he opens the camera in his phone and lifts it to have both of them in frame, Gao Tu lowers his phone and smiles, Wenlang has the corner of his lips lifted  and takes the picture “Wait, wait. Let's take another” this time Wenlang presses his lips on Gao Tu’s cheek and takes the picture. 

“Are you sending that to Mr. Sheng?” he asks, timid.

“Just the first one” he says as he opens WeChat “let me send them to you” Gao Tu looks at Wenlang’s phone, he is curious about what he is planning to do, he does as he said and sends him the pictures first then goes to Shaoyou’s chat.

“Psychoyou?” Wenlang chuckleses.

“He deserves it” he sends him the picture 

Shen Wenlang: You should learn how to take good photos, like this, consistently. 

Immediately after Gao Tu receives a video call, he looks at Wenlang who nods. As soon as he picks it up he sees Shaoyou shocked.

“A-Tu what is that doing with you!” Gao Tu laughs and Wenlang gives Shaoyou a dirty look.

“I'm not “that” I have a name, Sheng Shaoyou” then he puts his chin over Gao Tu’s shoulder smiling playfully “Right, Baobei?” he asks with a soft voice causing Shaoyou’s grossed out expression all over his face.

“Bao- Shen Wenlang” Shaoyou trampled with his own words “A-Tu is it true?!” Gao Tu nods “Since when?” 

“This morning” says the wolf, proud. 

“Mr. Sheng, here, I brought you fruit” they hear Hua Yong’s voice, who is not visible right away.

“Hua Yong, look at this” he says pointing at the phone, Hua Yong appears on frame and waves his hand first then blinks and double checks, seeing them cuddling like that wasn’t in his expectatives. Especially Wenlang, seeing that man being somehow soft? weird.

“Huh? No way. Did you finally use your brain Shen Wenlang?” Wenlang gives him a dirty look “that's impressive” he claps softly. 

“Shut up, lunatic” he pauses and then realizes “None of you are going to congratulate us?” Hua Yong stared with empty eyes.

“Ah yes, congratulations Shen Wenlang” his monotone voice managed to piss him off, but then light crossed Hua Yong’s eyes “And congratulations secretary Gao, please have patience with that blockhead”  his voice sounded way different, more lively when he addressed Gao Tu, this dammed fox. 

“Congratulations A-Tu, he can be really dense jiayou!” Wenlang rolled his eyes. What kind of friends are these? completely dissing him off and cheering up Gao Tu “We should arrange another gathering soon” Shaoyou teased.

“Hell no, let us spend quality time” Shaoyou laughed immediately.

“Secretary Gao if Shen Wenlang causes you any trouble let me know~” Hua Yong sounded like he was almost singing.

“I don’t think he would, he looks like an inoffensive puppy right now” Shaoyou teases him, Hua Yong chuckles at it Wenlang stares at the ceiling, taking that call was clearly a mistake.

“Both of you are made for each other” he spits, annoyed.

“Thank you, I know we were destined” Shaoyou smiles and kisses Hua Yong’s cheek under the surprised looks of the other two.

“Yes, we are. Thank you Shen Wenlang” he teases, Wenlang rolls his eyes feeling like hanging up. 

They chatted a bit longer before hanging up, Wenlang sighed and put his nose in Gao Tu’s nape.

“What are you doing?” Gao Tu flinches.

“Recharging” the omega sighs “I really like this sage smell” mentions.

“You said you hated it” Wenlang brushes the tip of his nose in Gao Tu’s skin.

“That’s because I thought it was someone else’s smell. I had to convince myself I hated it, but I don’t, it relaxes me” he admits, and places a short kiss “here, come” he requests him to lay on him, Gao Tu does it and as soon his face touches Wenlang’s chest he caresses his hairs slowly, calming, relaxing him, slowly he finds himself dozing off “Do you want to take a nap?” Gao Tu nods “give me your glasses I'll put them on the coffee table” he did as he said “Are you sure you want to sleep here? I can take you to the bed” his voice sounds incredibly soft, Gao Tu shakes his head and covers himself with the blanket.

“We already slept here. Is quite comfortable” he mumbles with a sleepy voice “I like it…” was the last thing he heard him mumble. 

One of the things Wenlang noticed these days is that Gao Tu gets sleepy very easily when he is comfortable, it really didn’t take him much time to fall asleep, it's fascinating. Wenlang put his cheek on Gao Tu’s head and nuzzled it softly, he never thought of himself doing things like these, but with him it just… he can’t help it, everytime he is with Gao Tu something brings this side of him. He pulled apart and kept looking through his phone when he got a message from Hua Yong.

Lunatic: You better take care of secretary Gao. 

             Mr. Sheng is ready to fight you if you do something stupid.

Shen Wenlang: Huh? Aren’t you supposed to be my friend? Do something

Lunatic: Allegedly. Besides, I trust you won’t do anything stupid, would you?

Shen Wenlang: There's no way I would do something that hurts Gao Tu.

Lunatic: [Staring fox emoji]

Shen Wenlang: What

Lunatic: Then you better change the way you speak about other omegas.

Wenlang sighs, it is not like he doesn’t know it, but dealing with his resentment isn’t that easy, it only grew after seeing what his papa went through during heat cycles; how he was willing to ditch his dignity for his father, begging him to take him. He is angry at his omega papa for abandoning him, leaving him behind. It's a grudge sturdily built through the years and still from time to time he thinks about his papa, he feels how his heart tightens. It's been a while since he had thought about him… so long and it still hurts like the day his passing was announced. He feels his eyes burning. He puts a hand on his eyelids, shit, it hurts. 

Shen Wenlang: Do you think papa would have liked Gao Tu? 

Before he could delete the message it was already read. The answer takes a bit long to come. 

Lunatic: Yes, he would.

He feels reassured, but with a certain weight is sitting on his chest. Would… Gao Tu and his papa get along?  He looks at Gao Tu resting and nods, probably they would get along. They would probably team up to tease him or maybe papa would tease him and Gao Tu would defend him or maybe the other way around. Or maybe not, both of them had always been the kind and gentle type of person. 

He thinks if things had been different having him, probably he would have never been angry at omegas, papa would have guided him. Probably it wouldn’t have taken him so long to realize his feelings for Gao Tu, maybe in a different life they would be together since school; now married enjoying their time together or… maybe with a kid or two, he isn’t particularly fond of them, but seeing Gao Tu so close to his sister he thinks he might like them and thinking about Gao Tu’s children makes him feel a certain type of joy he didn’t know he could feel. Gao Tu’s children would surely be the cutest babies, just looking at him he is certain, he caresses Gao Tu’s cheek, trails his finger over his nose slowly with care, then falls to his lips; perfectly plump heartshaped lips, he brushes his cupid arc; they feel so soft... Yes, his kids would surely be the cutest ones. Then he thinks… What about their kids? if they have kids…  he is quite confident in his looks and with Gao Tu’s features? that is a guaranteed beauty, which means; trouble, they would get everyone’s attention, he will have to be the toughest guardian. And just like that he finds himself being mad at fictional children that are trying to get his fictional kid’s attention.  

Once he realizes his thoughts he laughs softly, trying to not wake up the bunny on his chest, he looks at him once more and gets lost in his face; only Gao Tu can make him feel like this. There is no one else that can make him feel full like he does, Gao Tu is the only person he can’t allow himself to not have by his side, everyone else can scram if they want, but Gao Tu? never. He hugs Gao Tu and doesn’t take him much longer to fall asleep.

Wenlang wakes up when he feels Gao Tu moving, who is still sleeping but trying to get more comfortable, ah, he loves this. He notices Gao Tu’s nose wrinkling, he smiles at it, it's cute, he really resembles a bunny. Then he sees him slowly opening his eyes and immediately purses his lips trying to hide his smile, he knows Gao Tu would get shy, then an idea flashes in his head and shuts his eyes too.

When Gao Tu is awake, it takes him a bit to recognize where he is, well more like on top of who he is. He looks at the chest below his hand and blushes, since yesterday he is waking up in this unusual scenario, not that he hates it, he actually likes it, but feels surreal… way too surreal… he can… just try and confirm if it’s real, right? He extends his arm to Wenlang’s face, he caresses his cheek a little bit scared to wake him up, Wenlang flinches and Gao Tu moves his hand away, Wenlang just moves his head and stays still again. It takes Gao Tu a little bit to try again to touch his face, but he does it, slowly trails his cheekbone with his index and middle finger, falls to his jaw line and trails to his chin, he leaves his middle finger resting on Wenlang’s chin and his index finger below his bottom lip, tracing it. He is amazed that this mouth, the one he uses to curse omegas just a few days ago is the very same that had said the words “I love you” to him and promised him to make him happy, the same lips that had kissed him demonstrating him affection  the one he only could dream about, was… being given to him. Gao Tu smiles, it wouldn’t hurt to indulge in his selfishness, right? As long Wenlang doesn’t know it… just a little bit… he pulls back his hand and nuzzles his nose and cheek against Wenlang’s chest, it’s warm…  he stays there, exhaling, feeling fulfilled.

Wenlang in his end is trying his best to keep calm and his eyes shut, he would have LOVED seeing it, but he has to settle with playing as sleepy log, Gao Tu is shy when is related to them together and gets embarrassed easily and also he goes with the flow with him, he can tease him, but until certain lengths, he knows that very well. He feels Gao Tu’s warmth parting from his body, he instinctively grabs his shoulder and pushes him back into him. 

“Wen-” he managed to say before getting yanked to the alpha’s body “Wenlang!” he called, Wenlang opened his eyes slowly, he can be such a good actor “You. You were awake all this time?” Wenlang yawns, he has to commit and shakes his head.

“Just now, I was feeling cold” Gao Tu had barely parted when he pulled him in, it is -in part- true that it got a bit colder without him “Where were you going?” he asks leaning to kiss his head. 

“Bathroom” Wenlang releases him and Gao Tu gets up, Wenlang sits on the sofa looking at him, then hands him his glasses “Thank you” he mumbles, puts them on and after looking at Wenlang he chuckles “Your bed hair is amazing” Wenlang touches the back of his head, his hair feels oddly plain.

They met again in the kitchen, Gao Tu was ready to cook, Wenlang pretended to help, but got told to stay still, he couldn’t, on his second attempt to help he got sent away from the kitchen. He found himself staring at the turned off tv wondering how he ended up there, that's his house, yet Gao Tu had kicked him out from the kitchen and more importantly; why wasn't he mad about it? Does he like to be bossied around? no, absolutely not, but if it's Gao Tu? well he looked adorable when he was telling him to let him cook. 

Shen Wenlang: I got kicked out of the kitchen.

Psychoyou: LOL

                  Did you burn something?

 

Wenlang double checked, didn’t he text Hua Yong? no he didn’t, he opened the wrong chat.

Shen Wenlang: Mb got the wrong chat.

Psychoyou: Aw, come on. 

                  Don’t be like that, tell me more.

Shen Wenlang: Why do you think I’ll burn something?

                       I can cook. 

                       You already tasted my skills

Psychoyou: Wasn’t A-Tu’s?

Shen Wenlang: Teamwork.

Psychoyou: Sooo you just setted up the table?

 

Wenlang snorts, why is this guy being a smartass?

Shen Wenlang: Do YOU get kicked out of the kitchen regularly? 

Psychoyou: No comment. 

Shen Wenlang: Last time you ever cooked? 

Psychoyou: [shushing emoji] 

Shen Wenlang: So you are the one that burns things. 

Psychoyou: Hua Yong likes to cook more, that’s it. 

Shen Wenlang: Did you just make him your personal maid or something? 

Wenlang is surprised, so those are the cards the lunatic is willing to play to make him fall deeper? That is commitment. 

Psychoyou: No, that’s how he spoils me.

                  Why the sudden interest?

                  You better not try something funny.

                  A-Tu is my friend.

Shen Wenlang stares at the screen with disgust. What is his brain making up? That he would try to go after any of them? Gross.

Shen Wenlang: That’s gross.

                       Tutu is dating me, mind you. 

                       Any of you would be a downgrade.

Psychoyou: HUH

                  I dare you to say that to my face. 

Shen Wenlang: Would you like a video? 

                       Or a video call?

Psychoyou: You are annoying.

Shen Wenlang: You are far more annoying.

Psychoyou: So when are you hosting us again?

Shen Wenlang: Never.

Psychoyou: I’ll ask Tutu then.

 

Wenlang misses no time and calls him, Shaoyou answers trying to hide his laugh.

“Don’t call him like that. A-Tu is enough for you” he hears Shaoyou full laugh.

“Oh come on, that is up to him. I can’t believe you actually called for this” he teases, the alpha is super easy to annoy. 

“So you think he will agree?” he challenges, amusing Shaoyou. Part of him is divided, would Gao Tu let him use that nickname?

“Well, lets see” he hangs up.

Shen Wenlang crosses his legs on the sofa, he is tempted to go to the kitchen and try to spy on. But if he is catched by Gao Tu he would probably get mad… and they just started dating, he doesn’t want to poke him too much. He waits… and waits… and keeps waiting, starting to get anxious when a notification pops.

Psychoyou: He said no

                  [Crying tiger sticker] 

 

That message made him smile, so he is keeping that nickname exclusive for him then. Good. 

Shen Wenlang: [Laughing wolf sticker] 

At the kitchen Gao Tu was busy cooking when he received a call from Shaoyou, he picked up and after exchanging usual greetings he asked.

“Can I call you Tutu?” silence, Gao Tu squeezes his phone in his hand. So far only Wenlang has called him like that, and he likes it. Even though Wenlang only calls him Baobei now, Tutu is special, he likes it when Wenlang calls him like that and he can only imagine Wenlang calling him like that, no one else.

“No” He answers after a time, it felt hard to tell him no, after all he is basically his only friend besides Wenlang… before they started to work together, since then their relationship was a bit… strange. Then they jumped directly to date.

“Ah, really?” Shaoyou sounds quite disappointed.

“Yes. A-Tu is fine, but Tutu… just Wenlang” He feels his face burning up, it's embarrassing to say it out loud.

“You still call him Wenlang? Won’t you change the way to call him now that you two are together?” is not like Gao Tu didn’t think about it. He did, quite a lot, but he likes his name just like that “Wenwen or Langlang?” a pause “I regret so much saying that, I feel gross now” Gao Tu laughs loudly, Shaoyou sounds completely grossed out.

“Mr. Sheng, were you discussing this with Wenlang by any chance?” he asks before going back to the pot. He receives a confirmation.

“How did you know?” 

“Well is pretty obvious, I know you both” he pauses “Stubborn and competitive alphas” he sighs then adds “Ah but that's my definitive answer. Please don’t call me like that”  

They hung up after talking for a bit more, Gao Tu thinks about it and realizes Sheng Shaoyou is his first friend that knows he is an omega and treats him the same way he did before knowing… he is a good friend.

When everything is ready he calls Wenlang who is there in almost a blink looking at him with big round eyes all he is missing is to stick out his bottom lip to fully pout. Is childish, but it still works on Gao Tu. 

“What’s wrong” he asks, Wenlang walks up to him and stares at him, Gao Tu caresses his cheek and that seems enough to fix him “Not hungry?” 

“I’m just thinking why you kicked me out” is this the same alpha that can make people shiver just with one glare? He looks like a scolded puppy.

“Because I wanted to prepare a meal without you interrupting me” yes, he is getting his face warmer after saying it. Because the way Wenlang kissed him the day before still lingers in his lips. Wenlang smiles, wraps his waist and pulls him close “Hey!”

“Well, food is ready, can I interrupt you now?” he leans in and Gao Tu covers his mouth. “MMmHM”

“No, eat first” Gao Tu quickly removes his hand, did he just lick him? “WeNLANG” he is smiling.

“Just one time” he teases leaning again, Gao Tu stops him again with his fingers pressing between his eyebrows and leaning backwards.

“Just once?” he asks shyly, Wenlang nods.

Gao Tu is worried, he gets easily carried away by Wenlang, and it is hard to resist him. He ends up letting go and Wenlang captures his lips is a bit rough compared to the other times he had kissed him he opens his mouth with the intention to complain, but Wenlang takes it as a chance to taste the inside of his mouth and pulls him close. Gao Tu feels his big hands on his waist pressing him against his body. This was exactly why Gao Tu was reticent about it, they can get swayed in so easily. Gao Tu lets Wenlang lead and struggles to follow his rhythm which ends up being a bit clumsy.  

They break apart with uneven breaths, Wenlang pushes a short kiss on top of Gao Tu’s lips and smiles over them before fully pulling his head apart to look at Gao Tu’s face, it seems the kiss had shaked him up well.

“You are a pervert, Shen Wenlang” Wenlang nods with a smug smile on his face and kisses him shortly on the lips for a second time.

“Do you want to sleep with me tonight?” Gao Tu’s eyes widens and pushes him not with enough strength to break contact, but enough to stare at him, judgemental.

“Shen Wenlang, did you just?” Wenlang blinks fast and shakes his head.

“No, no, no. That’s not what I meant” Gao Tu pulls apart from his embrace “No, please. Baobei” Gao Tu crosses his arms over his chest “I swear that’s not what I meant. I haven’t even thought about it!” Gao Tu stares at him “Well, fine, I have, but not now” Gao Tu shakes his head.

“Pervert” Wenlang’s shoulders drop, stares at the ceiling before brushing his hair and looking back at him.

“We already slept together two times and I feel rested when we are together, please” he thinks, he needs to word it correctly before getting rejected “Yesterday and today's nap were great, both times I had you in my arms, that's all” Gao Tu knows, it had been the same for him too “this is embarrassing" Gao Tu thinks one more time looking at him, he really seems troubled.

“Okay” he agrees, Wenlang’s eyes flashes with a glow “but you have to behave, or I will sleep in the other room” Wenlang purses his lips and ends up nodding.

It's not like Wenlang actually pretended to do something, but being told to behave so stern is… kinda a turn on? But that's his bunny's warning, he better take it. They sit and have lunch, Wenlang compliments him right away, it is tasty, and that home feeling sets in almost instantly. Wenlang did the dishes and Gao Tu helped drying them up, by the time they were done Wenlang phone rang, he picked up; it was from the office, it was important, he needed to check documents and send them back as soon as he could.

“I will sort this off, get some rest meanwhile, okay?” Gao Tu nodded

“Is there anything I can help you with?” Wenlang thinks for a bit, but there is nothing really. He would rather have him properly resting.

“Yes, resting” Gao Tu purses his lips “It shouldn’t take too long. I will be at the study” he walks out of the kitchen to stop right in the entrance and walks back to Gao Tu “there should be some snacks, grab them if you get hungry okay?” he points to a cabinet, despite knowing that Gao Tu already knows it “See you in a bit, Baobei” he says before kissing his cheek and leaving.

In the first hour Gao Tu really tried to rest; he sat on the sofa going through the series and movie names, he picked something but didn’t really engage with it. He tried texting Shaoyou, but he was busy at the time. He sighs, having nothing to do is something he isn’t used to at all. About 40 minutes goes in and he ends up getting up and brewing Wenlang’s favorite tea, he knocks the study door and hears Wenlang letting him in. He finds him placing a frame on the desk looking nostalgic and a bit… Heartbroken? 

“President Shen, your tea” he says getting the tray on the desk, Wenlang chuckles and looks at him, the look on Wenlang’s eyes squeezes his heart, they look so sad “What's wrong?” He asks getting around the desk directly going to him Wenlang hugs him with one arm and places him on his lap to hug him with both arms.

“I have been thinking about Pa, lately” he admits and points to the frame resting on his desk, Gao Tu takes it.

It is not the first time he sees it, its family portrait, the one that Wenlang really treasures. There's a few times in the past where he had catched him glimpsing at it always with an endearing sub feeling, but this time… Wenlang looks so sad. He turns his head towards Wenlang and he finds him hiding his face on his neck, Gao Tu caresses his head, Wenlang holds him tightly. 

“It’s okay…” Gao Tu doesn’t really have any better comforting words, he really doesn’t want to see him sad and all he can do now is stay by his side.  

“Pa would have loved you” mumbles in a shattered voice. Gao Tu hugs his neck and doesn’t say anything. They stay quiet hugging each other.

Truth was, Wenlang had been done with work and sent it to revision when he looked at the portrait and started remembering his papa once again, missing him. The former military omega who was highly recognized in Country P a dignified, proud and strong man who was distant with strangers, but turned in a warm and compassionate person only with him; his baby wolf. He was strict with him, yes, but never mean or cold. Whenever he failed his tasks his father Shen Yu, would immediately physically “correct” him and quietly his papa would heal his wounds. He was, also, the only one who could step in and shut up Shen Yu. 

His disgust towards omegas was born from that fateful day when he didn’t intend to spy on them, he was playing hide and seek and ended up on the ventilation duct, he heard his papa throwing away all his dignity during his heat to beg his father to hold him. Knowing how he would throw everything away just to be pleased, it disgusted him, it deeply disgusted him. For the longest time he thought he had seduced his father with his omega alluring pheromones trapping him with a kid and later giving birth to him, because the relationship between his fathers didn’t make sense, it was a loveless relationship, that had to be the only way. How was it possible for a prominent general in Country P who was even intended to be nominated to the nobel prize of peace -which he would decline- give up everything for a man like Shen Yu a ruthless and selfish bastard? Who, also, had been a prominent arms dealer, made no sense.

And even if he was convinced his parents' relationship started like that and that they had no feelings for each other, the love his papa would show him was enough to make him feel at ease and momentarily, forget his resentment.. 

“I'm sure he adores you a lot” Gao Tu said, Wenlang holded him closer.

Shen Wenlang was still unable to shed a tear for him, just like the day of his funeral when he had convinced himself that it wasn’t a bad thing… it was, yet he never accepted his feelings towards his passing, instead of being sad his resentment only grew. Ying Yi, his papa, had been imprisoned for killing a female omega that was pregnant with Shen Yu’s child. That day, she was resting on Shen Yu’s arms when he shot her on the head in broad daylight. He wasn’t stealthy about it, despite having a military background; he just had it done with his own hand.  Ying Yi was sent to prison by Shen Yu, three days after in his cell only a blood pool was found, it was enough to be deadly hence Ying Yi was pronounced dead. That’s how the most influential general who had given up his career for his family met his end. Quiet and unknown.

That night Wenlang refused to let go Gao Tu, he pulled him close in an embrace when they were in bed he hid his face on Gao Tu’s chest and Gao Tu caressed his back until Wenlang fell asleep. Gao Tu contemplated his options, there wasn’t much he could do to help put Wenlang at ease… then he had an idea, he took his time considering it fighting against it, but if that person could give him some light at least… he sighed and carefully of not waking up Wenlang he slipped out of his embrace, he went to the sofa at the living room and holded for a bit before taking his next step. He took his own phone and looked at the hour, it was 1 am, he almost waver but opened WeChat anyway. 

Gao Tu: I apologize for the sudden message, are you awake? 

He stared at the screen, part of him hoped he wouldn’t reply, but he had already decided to try to do something for Wenlang. 

Secretary Hua: Yes I’m still awake.

                       Do you need anything, secretary Gao? 

Gao Tu: I'm sorry to inconvenience you.

             But I know you have knew president Shen for years… and

             I know it might be an unreasonable request.

             But could you tell me about president Shen’s papa? 

The answer took a considerable amount of time to come back. Hua Yong had read the messages, he was sure, but still he couldn’t help but feel anxious. 

Secretary Hua: Sure. What do you want to know?

                       I met him a few times when growing up. 

 

Gao Tu’s eyes glimmered. They have a long conversation about Wenlang’s dad, it turns out his dad was a person of a really few words, at least with everyone else but his family, he was strict and always had a dignified aura. It was impressive, it was a one-of-a-kind type of person. Hua Yong had sent him a few pictures he had of them growing up and just as he had said, Wenlang’s papa always had that kind of aura; unapproachable yet somewhat friendly, quiet but fierce. Between the pictures a child Wenlang was visible, he always had a wolf plush, even in that picture of Ying Yi carrying him on his arms; that was the only picture Ying Yi’s face was relaxed and had a smile looking at his child who was carrying that plush.  

Secretary Hua: Don’t tell him I sent you this.

                       [picture] 

 

It was a different picture, had Wenlang as a teenager sitting on a desk in what he thinks is his childhood bedroom, in the back on a shelf the same wolf plush was visible, clearly runned down by the years of holding onto it. Gao Tu was concentrating on looking at the pictures when a sudden question popped in his head, why did Hua Yong have so many pictures of Wenlang? 

Gao Tu: Thank you very much secretary Hua

             I hope you don’t mind me asking…

 

A pause, how is he going to ask him that? Wouldn’t it be too blunt? Is not out of jealousy, is just full of curiosity. Their relationship as childhood friends is pretty unusual. He decides to put a hold on that feeling, is not the moment for this.

Secretary Hua: Go on.

Gao Tu: I saw a plush doll in the pictures. 

             it seemed like president Shen appreciated it very much.

Secretary Hua: It doesn’t exist any longer. 

                       Uncle Shen disposed of it. 

Hua Yong remembers that doll, Shen Yu had burned it right after Ying Yi’s funeral. He had gone to pay a visit to them when he saw them having a fight, Shen Yu had kicked Wenlang throwing him on the floor, Shen Yu had the plush on his hand yelling like a madman and thrown it into a can which he lit on fire right after. Wenlang had refused to tell him what happened that day, and mostly sulked crying in silence. 

Gao Tu: I see… that’s unfortunate.

             Thanks for your help.

Secretary Hua: Why the sudden curiosity?

 

Gao Tu reflects, measuring the pros and cons of revealing his intentions. He doesn’t believe that Hua Yong is a threat to Wenlang. 

Gao Tu: Wenlang had been thinking of Mr. Ying. 

             I just wanted to know if there is something I can do for him.

 

Hua Yong reads the message but doesn’t reply right away.

Secretary Hua: Are you free tomorrow? 

That surprises Gao Tu, it's sudden. What is he planning to do?

Gao Tu: I am, but was instructed to rest.

Secretary Hua: Don’t worry. I’ll visit you.

                       Don’t tell Wenlang, I’ll sort it out. 

That… still didn’t reassure him, maybe it was a mistake to contact Hua Yong after all? Well now he will only find out the next day. He sighs and locks his screen, still thinking about what Hua Yong would need him for. He hears the door from the room and turns his head to find Wenlang coming out, he looks at him and Gao Tu  just waves at him. Wenlang walks up fast and hugs him.

“I was looking for you” he says still with that saddened voice that made Gao Tu’s chest tighten “You left me alone in the bed” Gao Tu caresses his head.

“I'm sorry, I couldn’t fall asleep” Wenlang looks unusually weak and lost. Remembering his papa made a lot of negative feelings surface.

“Please don’t leave me” Wenlang doesn’t want to feel alone anymore, Gao Tu's presence has always comforted him.

He has never properly put it into words, but for the longest time since he met Gao Tu, he didn’t want to be close to him, Wenlang didn’t want to have people too close to him and tried putting distance between them, distance which Gao Tu would respect, but at times the distance would shorten and shorten until he didn’t know when he was turning his head looking around for Gao Tu.  Even at work, as soon as his eyes catched a glimpse of Gao Tu’s silhouette he would fix his eyes on him.

“I won’t” 

They got back to bed and Wenlang was hugging him again, more tightly this time. Gao Tu just let him be, he needed it. 

Chapter Text

The next morning Wenlang’s voice sounded angry and woke him up, he found him sitting on the edge of the bed talking on the phone.

“Sheng PsychoticYou, what does this mean?!” he demanded, Gao Tu sat on the bed and put his glasses on, looked at his phone but had no messages, no clues “Hah?! You threatened me to host you so we could delay that meeting!” it was hard to tell what had him like that, but it was clear it had to be with Mr. Sheng “Why can’t you just postpone it longer?! You know we are spending time together, I need to take care of him!” Wenlang listened to the other side's response, his eyes widened “What do you mean Hua Yong will take care of him?! Are you out of your mind?!” Gao Tu blinks… Was this what Hua Yong meant yesterday?

“Wenlang just shut up and go to the office! Hua Yong will be on his way there soon” finally he hears Shaoyou’s voice from the other side of the line, he had raised his voice. 

“Screw you!” he said before hanging up and throwing his phone to the bed.

“Wenlang?” he called him, Wenlang stiffened and sighs, his shoulders drops visible “What’s wrong?”  The alpha brushes his hair and turns to Gao Tu.

“That psychotic bastard” he starts “He insisted on making the meeting happening today, to settle the contract and he even gathered the researchers for later” he brushes his hair once more, angry “I told them I wanted to take care of you and he sent Hua Yong over to take care of you while I'm at the office” Gao Tu purses his lips and places a hand on his arm.

“It’s okay Wenlang” Wenlang looks at him and tries opening his mouth but nothing comes out, he can’t bring himself to tell Gao Tu how angry he was “You shouldn’t be skipping work in the first place” Wenlang sighs. 

“Work is fine without me there. Is just that psychotic bastard pushing everything for today” Wenlang sighs again “I don’t want to be away from you” Gao Tu caresses his face.

“Is going to be okay, Wenlang. You will be back at home soon” Wenlang exhales, already tired “I will give you a massage when you are back” that picks Wenlang interest 

“You will?” a certain glow flashes in his eyes, that’s a good offer.

“Yes, go get ready. I’ll prepare breakfast”

He really didn’t want to leave Gao Tu, it’s going to be a stressful day. He already hates the morning. Wenlang takes a shower and wears his shirt and pants, takes the jacket suit and leaves it on the sofa before going to the kitchen, he finds Gao Tu placing the cups on the table.

“Thank you” he mumbles, he still doesn’t want to leave.

Once he was ready with breakfast and had brushed his teeth while wearing the suit jacket on his way to the door, Gao Tu stopped him.

“Your collar is crooked” he said, fixing the collar of the shirt and making sure the jacket lapel was straight and Wenlang liked it, the proximity, the care. Everything. He leans in and kisses him on the cheek.

“Im leaving” he says without moving with his eyes locked on Gao Tu “I don’t really want to go” he wraps Gao Tu’s waist and pulls him closer.

“You have to” Gao Tu is looking at Wenlang, it’s hard to describe what he is feeling. Part of him doesn’t want to let him go, but he knows he has his obligations, and above all of that, he doesn’t want to be the reason he delays the things he has to do. Wenlang sighs and is ready to let him go and stops midway “Wenlang?”

“Give me a goodbye kiss” he teases with a smug smile, he actually doesn’t think Gao Tu would do it. But… just to be sure. Gao Tu blinks and tilts his head he bites his own lips considering it “It’s okay, you don’t have to” he says and lets go his waist, Gao Tu’s arms reach for his neck and pull him in placing a short peck on his lips. Gao Tu immediately parts and takes a few steps back.

“Have a good day at work” Wenlang feels his hands trembling and curses Shaoyou, he swears he will get revenge. He exhales and nods.

After Wenlang leaves Gao Tu has enough time to take a shower and get dressed, he doesn’t know what Hua Yong had planned, but is better to be ready either way. He feels his phone buzzing.

Shen Wenlang: Just arrived at work. 

Gao Tu smiles, he had made such a big fuss of having to leave earlier.  

Shen Wenlang: Miss you already 

Well, Wenlang had been showing him different sides and knew he might surprise him, but he didn’t expect a miss you text. He debated on what to reply, he ended up sending him a rabbit sticker that said jiayou. 

He hears the ringbell rang and goes to the door, upon opening it he finds Hua Yong in the entrance.

“Ah, good morning” he rushes to greet and gestures him to get in

“Good morning, secretary Gao” Hua Yong doesn’t move “Just so you know, that husband of yours is quite annoying. I had to block him” he sighs Gao Tu feels his face getting warmer, husband “are you ready?”  Gao Tu tilts his head.

“Ready for what?” Hua Yong looks at him and nods.

“Shopping” 

Gao Tu left home with Hua Yong, he didn’t know he had a driver and he doesn’t mention it. In the car Hua Yong seemed annoyed.

“Uhm… What's wrong?” he asks, Hua Yong looks at him and sighs.

“Your husband. He can be too troublesome” again, the word husband didn't bother him at all. But isn't it too soon? “He can’t just be obedient, he had to trouble Mr. Sheng” he taps the arm rest “Then he sent me text after text complaining” he turned to Gao Tu “Do you know how many texts he is capable of sending in less than a minute?” Gao Tu tries to not laugh by pursing his lips “I stopped counting at 10”  Gao Tu chuckles, it is true, Wenlang can type really fast.  Then  wonders if his speed is related to being an alpha or just some sort of a  ‘Wenlang thing’. 

“So… this is what you meant yesterday?” Hua Yong looks at him as if he were studying him.

“Yeah” Gao Tu nods “Consider this as an installment” Gao Tu eyebrows frown, what does that mean? 

“Installment of what?” Hua Yong nods.

“A long time debt I have with someone”   

When Hua Yong said shopping, he didn’t expect something like this; they ended up in a craft store inside a mall, he double checked the sign, but it didn’t change. It remained as a craft store. Now Gao Tu didn’t really understand Hua Yong’s actions and this one was on a whole different level, the store didn’t have any other customers than themselves.

“Uhm… What are we doing here?” Hua Yong wandered next to the fabrics, and Gao Tu walked behind him.

“You said you wanted to do something for that thick-headed alpha of yours, didn’t you?” Gao Tu realizes why he brought him there “I believe you can sew, can you?” he nods.

It had been in his mind, he thought it might be too childish, but if Hua Yong had thought on that as well, it meant he wasn’t too far off the right track at all; he thought getting the same wolf plush for Wenlang, he looked it up, but couldn’t find it at all, it was quite unique. He knows there's no way a new one would replace his old childhood companion, but he thought it might help him find peace, originally if there was a way to retrieve the old one it would have been better… but knowing it no longer exists sent him on an unsuccessful search for it after Wenlang had fallen asleep again.                                                                                                                                                                                         

Gao Tu took time looking for a fabric that was similar to the one on the pictures Hua Yong had sent him the night before, he looked for eyes that were similar as well. While he was looking carefully through all the fabrics Hua Yong was doing the same, he had the idea of trying to make one for Mr. Sheng as well. They spent a good time choosing everything including the filling for the plushes. He also picked up a book for starters and a sewing kit.  

Once they were done Hua Yong practically dragged Gao Tu to a different store and he found himself looking for ties, Mr. Sheng had mentioned getting a new tie earlier that morning and Hua Yong was going to indulge him. Gao Tu was patiently waiting while Hua Yong was piling a few of the ones he liked, he did ask for Gao Tu’s invoice a few times and kept adding a pile which, once Hua Yong saw, he decided he would add shirts as well “to combine” he justified, he picked a few and gave the staff Shaoyou’s measurements to be tailored for him, he would send someone to pick them up later… that, that amazed Gao Tu. 

On their way out of the store Gao Tu noticed the high end watch shop, he considered going in to see the watches, he was about to mention it to Hua Yong when he saw him walking in that store, Gao Tu sighed, at least it seemed like he was having fun. Gao Tu left the store with a watch he felt would suit Wenlang while Hua Yong got two, one for Mr. Sheng and one for himself, matching, he said.

Their next and last stop was a restaurant, while they had lunch he realized how easy it was to talk to Hua Yong. Things were different from the first time they had interacted in that taxi ride, at that time Hua Yong was more discreet, cautious at the moment of doing conversation, he remembered feeling like he was getting measured, tested. This time it was different, more free, more genuine. 

Back at Wenlang’s home, as soon as they washed their hands they got into it; making a plush from scratch. Gao Tu had a hard time trying to visualize it as he was reading the manual, Hua Yong took a look at it then drew the patterns leaving Gao Tu impressed. 

At the office of the president of HS Group things were quite different. Wenlang was annoyed, staring at Shaoyou feeling like ripping him out. He had the audacity to set the meeting and come to it with pastries and eat them… making small conversation, barely progressing on the draft of the contract.

“Can we just finish this early?” he sighed leaning in his chair and darted a glare at Shaoyou who was taking a bite of a different pastry this time. He smiled at Wenlang, that smile that always managed to annoy Wenlang.

“Oh come on. Indulge me, we haven’t met in so long” Wenlang glared at him.

“You just were at my house like two days ago” Shaoyou feigned remembering.

“Was I? I don’t know, it felt like it was ages ago” Wenlang sighs, and pinches the bridge of his nose.

“Why are you trying to keep me at the office?” as if it were a revelation he glares at Shaoyou “You and that lunatic are not planning to do something to Gao Tu, are you?” Shaoyou rolls his eyes at the smell of Wenlang’s pheromones and pulls his phone out and shows him a picture of Gao Tu concentrated looking at god knows what it is “What is-”

“If you hang out with me today I’ll send it to you. There's more in the way” Wenlang clutches his hand.

“That is cheap” Shaoyou takes a sip of his tea “and very low”.

“You can think whatever you want” he shrugs “A-Tu is in good hands, Hua Yong is with him” which is precisely why Wenlang is worried. That lunatic had the audacity to block him. 

The day felt extremely long for Wenlang, he tried texting Gao Tu, but only one time had successfully communicated with him the rest of the time Shaoyou was annoying him. Slowly after lunch -just thanks to Shaoyou- they drafted the contract, by afternoon they had a meeting with the researches and Wenlang was feeling like plucking his hairs out one by one, Shaoyou had been boasting about his cohabitation with Hua Yong, he even updated him on how good terms they were on and gave him some unsolicited advices. It felt like torture. 

By the time he was able to go home Shaoyou had singlehandedly invited himself in Wenlang’s car who tried to refuse, but he insisted his partner was at his house and needed to pick him up and he didn’t had a way to mobilize at the moment he had sneakily sent his secretary and chauffeur away after the the meeting with the researchers, and it was more than certain that Hua Yong had a car with him. On the way home Shaoyou insisted on making a stop before to get something for dessert, reasoning he couldn’t possibly show up empty handed. That is how he had invited himself for dinner too. Wenlang didn’t even try to protest, it felt like his words would only go above Shaoyou’s head, he was planning on handing him Hua Yong and gracefully would kick them both out. That was actually a wild fantasy of his, he knew Hua Yong wouldn’t allow that and would definitively fight back.  

They arrived at Wenlang's place just to be received with a dinner prepared by Gao Tu and Hua Yong… the couple had successfully invited themselves for dinner once more, in an even more non-traditional way. 

“Im home” Wenlang announced as soon as he saw Gao Tu who was placing chopsticks on the table. Gao Tu turned to greet him with a smile.

“How was work?” Wenlang's expression turned sour and before he could even open his mouth a voice sounded behind him.

“A-Tu!” Gao Tu looked at Shaoyou who was waving at him.

“Mr. Sheng, welcome” he greeted, Shaoyou got closer to them and handed him a bag with fruits on it.

“Wenlang didn’t want to wait at the bakery” he sighs “He is a really impatient man you know?” 

“Well you didn’t have to come” he stares at him, and Shaoyou smiles, unbothered. Wenlang hears footsteps coming out of the kitchen and feels a subtle shiver, damn, surely he heard that.

“Mr. Sheng had to” Wenlang sighs and turns to find Hua Yong who had a smile that was not friendly at all, then he looked at Shaoyou and his expression went soft “Hi, Mr. Sheng” he quickly was next to him hugging his arm. Shaoyou caressed his cheek and greeted him back.

“I missed you” and Wenlang felt lifeless by staring at them. 

They had a lively dinner, Gao Tu seemed to be enjoying it and was having a really good conversation with the psychotic duo. Wenlang took some time to just look at him, smiling, having a good time, and having to endure Shaoyou’s antics at the office just to have this,  had been worth… yet we would definitively not do it again. 

“When are you able to go back to work, secretary Gao?” Hua Yong suddenly asks, Gao Tu takes his time remembering the doctor's words.

“I think… probably next week I should be able to” Hua Yong nods then looks at Wenlang.

“Let him take another week and both of you come with us to Country V” Wenlang frowns on the suggestion, a double date vacation? After having to endure having Shaoyou for a whole day? Yeah no. Before he could refuse Hua Yong continued “I think you have heard how Country V weather is right now, it would surely help secretary Gao to rest” Wenlang sighs “Oh and I'm not sharing Mr. Sheng for too long while we are there, maybe we can just have lunch or dinner the four of us… a few times” oh so this is the way he has to tell him they would have a couples trip, but each do their thing most of the time… if that is the case, it sounds better. 

Gao Tu was looking at them trying to decipher whatever the intention was, he remembers Hua Yong mentioned something about a trip earlier and requested him to be collaborative but didn’t expect this. But isn't it too beneficial? What do they win by having them on a couples vacation? Especially Hua Yong who doesn’t really like to share Mr. Sheng that much, it felt off. 

“Okay” Gao Tu stares at Wenlang, he thought he would refuse right away “do you want to come, Baobei?” then a three pair of eyes was over him, honestly? He didn’t want to miss work, it had been so long and that's the only thing he used to do, but… that versus more time  with Wenlang? Though choice. He nodded, softly.

“Sounds good” he said. Wenlang smiled, feeling fulfilled, a vacation with Tutu… yes that was nice, a trip that wasn’t related to work. 

“It’s going to be fun, A-Tu” 

Wenlang thought that for them to make this fuss just to tell them to have a vacation together was too much. Was keeping him out of the house a plan  just to show them how reliable they can be when it is about Gao Tu? They could have just said so. After dinner Gao Tu cutted fruit with Shaoyou and bringed it to the coffee table.  Hua Yong had been invested in his phone ignoring Wenlang who was sitting almost next to him. After Shaoyou arrived he sat next to Hua Yong and Gao Tu sat beside Wenlang handing him a fork with fruit.

“So, when are you two leaving?” Wenlang asked after eating the fruit, interrupting Shaoyou and Hua Yong’s conversation, Hua Yong gave him a cold look.

“I suddenly feel like staying the night” he said, staring at Wenlang’s eyes, who frowned. 

“Not happening” and stared Hua Yong back, refusing to back out.

“You are such an awful host, Wenlang” Shaoyou teased “Anyway, A-Tu. What do you wanna do on your vacations?” 

They ignored Wenlang and kept the conversation about their trip to Country V. Hua Yong had bringed up that they might stay at a resort so there's a lot of things they could do if they wanted to. They would be traveling on Sunday night to have a full week at Country V. Once they had the main things settled Hua Yong told them he would contact them later for further information and made a group in WeChat with the four of them.

After the couple left Wenlang was in the living room, tired, almost becoming one with the sofa. Gao Tu chuckled softly after seeing him, he got close to the sofa, put a hand on the back of the sofa and leaned  near Wenlang face.

“Tired?” he asked, Wenlang looked at him with really tired eyes and nodded.

“I don’t even want to get up” sighed.

“Oh you can, go take a shower” he patted his shoulder trying to encourage him. Wenlang frowned “I will give you a massage, remember?” his eyes lit up.

“No backing out?” Gao Tu shaked his head.

“No, I will be waiting for you here”

That was enough for Wenlang to get up and take that shower. Wenlang got out of the shower and wore a bathrobe, he dried his hair then went to the same sofa, truth to his word Gao Tu was waiting for him. Without taking his eyes out of Gao Tu he surrounded the sofa and sat leaning his neck on the sofa backrest.

“So, do I need to take this off?” Wenlang teased him as he undid the knot of the bathrobe, Gao Tu shut his eyes.

“Wenlang!” the alpha laughed, Gao Tu glared at him “Can you properly sit?” Wenlang was still lifting his head trying to look at him “look at the front, will you?” Gao Tu gets shy effortlessly. How lovely. Wenlang did as he was told “I’m going to uncover your shoulders” 

“I can take the whole thing off if you tell me to” he saw Gao Tu’s face on the reflection of the turned off tv, he was trying to keep composed. 

“No. Just your shoulders” 

When Gao Tu touched Wenlang’s shoulders and felt his warmth directly without clothes meddling, it made it feel more real than ever for him. It was Shen Wenlang, HS group president; a man that always felt unreachable, close within an arms distance but after a line he could never dare to cross. It was the Wenlang he had, more than once, fantasized looking at him. Wenlang let out satisfactory sounds under his touch, Gao Tu’s massage had actually helped him relaxing, all the tension had -indeed- built in the zone of his shoulders, he would occasionally look at Gao Tu’s reflection; he was focused on where his hands were reaching… that look on him, purely devoted to him was engraved in his memory. 

When Gao Tu had finalized his massage he sat next to Wenlang who seemed beyond relaxed in his own world with his neck resting on the backrest, he took one of Gao Tu’s fingers without moving his head and caressed it.

“I didn’t know you were so good at giving massages” he said slowly moving his head to look at him Gao Tu just snorted, there was no way he could have known “By the way… Hua Yong … what did he want?” he asked, concerned “I don’t think I had to deal with Shaoyou’s just as one of his whims, but maybe Hua Yong’s?” Gao Tu smiles faintly.

“Secretary Hua was concerned about you” Wenlang frowned and moved his head, changing his position to look at him.

“That lunatic? Yeah, I don’t think so”

“It’s true though” he mentioned getting up and walking to one of the single couch near to the wall and took a paper bag “he… helped me to prepare this” he says holding the bag looking at Wenlang, he walked back to the sofa and sat, looking directly to his eyes “Listen, I know I might be crossing a line, but…” he pauses, he had rehearsed what he wanted to say many times, but none of that was coming out “After seeing you so sad yesterday I felt powerless and… I wanted to do something for you” he extends the bag to a confused Wenlang who takes it but doesn’t open it right away “I know it is not the same… I hope… this helps you” Gao tu had held his own hands, nervous, anxious.

Wenlang was looking at him, not knowing what to make out of Gao Tu’s words, he sounded sincere as he had always been… there was something in his voice that sounded afraid? And timid as he was scared to offend him. But Wenlang knows it is almost impossible that Gao Tu would do something to offend or hurt him, and even if he did, he would forgive him either way, because having him is much more important than that.

He gives a final look to Gao Tu before looking at the bag again, it is light, and then he opens it, he reaches in and it feels soft. The softness puzzled him, he looked as he pulled the contents of the bag and as soon as he saw it he didn't feel anything, it was like he had forgotten how to feel due the shock, then emotions rushed in, his eyes felt like burning and his breath was getting shakier. Gao Tu had given him a replica of his childhood doll, it was exactly like the wolf Ying Yi had gifted him when he was little, a hand crafted wolf plush.

Wenlang brushes the face of the plush with his fingers as he was scared to harm it, a loud sob escapes from his throat and pushes the wolf to his chest as he lets the tears fall. Gao Tu’s heart tightens and gets closer to Wenlang, he places a hand on his shoulder and caresses it. Wenlang looks frail, like a child slowly crumbling down. He feels Wenlang pulling him into an embrace with his free arm.

“Thank you” he mumbles “thank you, thank you Tutu” 

At that moment Wenlang allowed himself to cry for his papa, for the memories together, for his love that is no longer physically present, his warmth, his care, his voice calling him baby wolf with endearment, his hugs, his kisses, his loss. He hated not having him, he absolutely loathed not having him, it was unfair, why did papa had to leave him? 

Gao Tu was there, accompanying him, supporting him, consoling him, comforting him. His presence was more than enough for Wenlang. Gao Tu was holding him as he was  shielding him from the world, from his feelings, from his hate.  His embrace was perfect to hold together a Wenlang that was falling in pieces. 

Gao Tu slowly soothed him with pheromones, it pained him looking Wenlang so broke, but he never let him go. It worked, Wenlang’s aggressive sobs slowly decreased. 

“Thank you” Wenlang mentioned after awhile, he ended up resting on Gao Tu’s chest who was laying down on the sofa Gao Tu just smiled even Wenlang couldn’t see it, he kept caressing Wenlang’s hair.

“Don’t be mad with Mr. Sheng and secretary Hua, they were trying to help” he mumbled, Wenlang nodded and kept looking at the wolf. It was so similar to the one his papa had made for him. 

“How did you know?” he asked, dazed on the fabric, the eyes placement, everything was almost identical.

“I asked secretary Hua and… he helped me.” Hua Yong getting involved sounded a bit fishy, but still, he didn’t feel like thinking about it, he just rolled with it.

“And Sheng Shaoyou?”  Gao Tu shakes his head.

“I didn’t know Mr. Sheng would retain you at the office” Wenlang sighs.

“That was torture, do you know what he did?” he narrows his eyes just by remembering it, he still needs to plan a revenge. 

“Sort of, he sent me pictures. You didn’t seem happy at all” when did he have time to sneak pictures of him? 

“What kind of pictures?” Gao Tu thinks for a moment.

“Hmm… You look defeated while looking at the table with pastries on it. Other in a meeting, another in the hallway, one in the car” he didn’t even realize when Shaoyou took those pictures. He was good enough to be a paparazzi. 

“It was tiring” admits “If they try something funny like that again tomorrow I’m not going” Gao Tu laughs “I’m serious, it’s too much” he pauses “I’ll need a whole day to recharge” Gao Tu rolls his eyes, that’s how he is telling him he is going to miss work.

They kept a conversation on the sofa until both of them felt sleepy enough and moved to Wenlang’s room to sleep, he never let go of the plush. That night that bed was occupied by three, Wenlang, Gao Tu and the plush. 

The next morning Gao Tu woke up alone in the bed, he went looking for Wenlang and found him in the kitchen preparing breakfast, but something was different. Wenlang had the plushie sitting on his shoulder probably attached with a safety pin and one of the arms of the plush was around his neck. The sight was just extremely cute.  

“Morning” he said Wenlang got startled, his attention was fully on what he was preparing. He turns and sees Gao Tu.

“Good morning” he adverts his eyes feeling embarrassed, making Gao Tu chuckle. How can a man close to his thirties be this cute? Especially when being cute isn’t really one of the words Gao Tu would use to describe him. 

“Got a helper?” he asked, pouring himself some water.

“Y-yeah. He insisted” he tries to blame the plush “I… just couldn’t leave it and I didn’t want it to get dirty” tries to justify.

“It’s okay Wenlang” he pats him in the arm “It looks cute on you anyway”  he drinks from the glass and looks at  Wenlang who went back to cooking.

“Ah, do you want to go get the rest of your things today?” ah, Gao Tu had forgotten about the apartment.

He agreed, later that day they were on their way to Gao Tu’s old place and collected everything else that was missing. It wasn’t a lot of things which certainly surprised Wenlang; Gao Tu had squeezed his whole life in there and still felt empty no matter if his things were out or not, even if the place belonged to him, it still felt like it was missing part of Gao Tu. He didn’t like that feeling, at home it was different, his presence filled the place. 

“Are you going to miss this place?” he had asked while tapping a box. Gao Tu looked at the empty wall where his rack with pictures used to be.

“Maybe the people. There is a neighbour who is quite nosy, but has a good heart” he says “I… always thought of this place as a place to rest and go to work. It was only me, hardly it would be like home” Wenlang stays silent and just nods one time. 

Back at Wenlang’s place they unpacked together and he helped Gao Tu to organize his things, the frame with the picture of their younger selves was placed on the livingroom, Gao Tu tried to protest, saying it was embarrassing, but Wenlang was settled on it. 

When Gao Tu got his check up the doctor give him the green light to get back on doing his regular activities, he had asked him about the chances of an omega impregnating an alpha -to Wenlang’s surprise- and the doctor said that the chances might be really, really, really low, the chance was close to zero, but there was a few documented cases of happening, at least on the “natural way” but mentioned that there was the possibility of following a treatment to increase the possibilities, he even suggested them they could begin the treatment right away to which a really flustered couple politely declined. Still the doctor mentioned if they wanted to follow the parental path they could at any time, but if it’s not on their plans at the moment he encouraged them to use protection.

That ride back at home was unusually silent, by the time they arrived home Wenlang’s silence was eating up Gao Tu.

“Is something wrong, Wenlang?” Wenlang his eyes glued to the bowl of fruit in his hand. He wasn’t moving, just had his eyes looking at it but was completely lost in his thoughts. 

“Baobei” he called with a serious voice and turned to him before leaving the bowl on the coffee table “Do you want kids?” Gao Tu froze in place. 

Truth to be told during the car ride he had been thinking about that. He likes the idea of having them, he wants a family that is not only conformed by him and his sister. Thinking on round chubby cheeks gives him warmth, baby babblings, the smell of a baby… yes he can see himself falling in love with them very easily. The idea of forming a family doesn’t sound bad at all, it is what he wants after all.  

“I… I do” he admitted and paused, he pursed his lips then asked “you? Do you want kids?”  Wenlang joins his own hands.

“I didn’t” Gao Tu nods, feeling some sort of defeat “I don’t really like them at all, honestly” Gao Tu shuts his eyes suddenly something forms in his throat “But… I have been thinking about your kids” Gao Tu looks at him, not understanding with a face full of questions, why his kids? Is he implying he would leave him? “Everytime I imagine them, I find myself loving them. I know I’ll love them” he looks at Gao Tu “and I'm sure I will care for them and protect them” he takes Gao Tu’s hand “At some point I thought, what if we have children” Wenlang locks eyes with Gao Tu “I like that, but it scares me” Wenlang’s eyes flashes with pain “What if I'm like my father?” his eyes drop, It is not news Wenlang doesn’t like his father at all, his father doesn’t really beheaves like a common father does either much less like a normal partner.

He remembers the insolation room where his papa would be imprisoned every time he was in heat, it was almost like a prison. His father would show up to have his papa begging for him, then hearing his omega father’s sobs and whimpers only infuriated him. He remembers the words Shen Yu said to his omega father one of the times he was spying on them; ‘Ying Yi, unless you die, don’t ever think about leaving me’ in the context he was eavesdropping on, it was clearly a threat. Would there be… a point where Wenlang would turn in someone like Shen Yu and do the same thing to Gao Tu? He doesn’t even want to imagine it. He wouldn’t be able to live with himself if that were the case.  

“You are not him” Gao Tu interrupted his thoughts by squishing his cheeks with his palms, he didn’t even felt when Gao Tu got this close, he had his face in front of him and was directly looking in his eyes “You are Wenlang, not Shen Yu” Wenlang looks at him with a really faint smile on his face “Anything that happens in the future we will figure it out, together” 

“Do you… think I could become a good father?” Gao Tu nods.

“I do. I think you would love them and be a good dad. I don’t think you would ever do something to hurt a child” Gao Tu hugs him, letting Wenlang hide between his jaw and his shoulder.

Wenlang’s dislike for children was deeply rooted in his childhood and not wanting to be like his father. He believed the farther he was and the more he hated them he would never cause them harm or wouldn’t have the chance to harm them. The night he thought about how Gao Tu’s children would be like he found himself liking the idea of children, he imagined his own with him and that is precisely where he started reflecting, did he really hated children? Or was scared of becoming like his father? He tried to not think about it, but the conversation with the doctor only sparked it again and he couldn’t shake it off his head.  Gao Tu’s words had reassured him, he knows it is too early to discuss children, but since he remembered his papa, everything in his head had been a mess where the only one that had helped him find clarity was Gao Tu with gestures or talks like these. He realizes Gao Tu is his biggest and greatest pillar.

The day of the trip arrived, everything was sorted off and packed. Hua Yong had gotten the tickets and all of them flew in first class. Gao Tu kept thinking about how he managed to pay it all with a secretary salary and the ties, shirts… could it be secretary Hua was actually from a well of family? But then again didn't he had two jobs like Mr. Sheng had briefly told him? And the medical fees? Was that part of the whole act he had settled up with Wenlang? He didn't want to put much thought into it. They landed at Country V around 10 am, when they got to the resort which was indeed enormous, doubt kept growing in Gao Tu’s mind. 

The group separated when the couples went to their rooms to leave their luggage. It was spacious and had one big bed for them. Gao Tu’s eyes wandered around the room, they had a view to a beautiful built in garden surrounding a lake crossed with a wooden bridge, it was beautiful and all of that was for the two of them. It couldn't be better. 

Wenlang dropped himself on the bed to test the mattress.

“It's good” he said, patting an empty side next to him. Gao Tu walked in and sat on the edge of the bed and fell backwards on the mattress next to Wenlang.

“It really is” he feels Wenlang pulling him closer kissing him shortly on the lips. 

“Did you like the view?” Gao Tu nodded “Perfect. I insisted to that lunatic to better pick rooms with good views” he caresses Gao Tu cheek “I like this one better though” Gao Tu snort, what kind of cheesy line was that? “Why are you laughing?” His ears were lightly colored in red.

“Oh you know why” Wenlang frowns, then lets out a short laugh.

“Okay, fair” Gao Tu gets up from the bed.

“Let's organize” Wenlang looks at him from the bed, detailing his frame with his eyes. No matter how many times he looks at him, he never gets tired of it. He gets up from the bed too and before Gao Tu could reach the suitcases he hugged him from behind “Wenlang?” He had one of his arms wrapping Gao Tu's waist.

The alpha kissed the base of his neck and slowly trailed up with short kisses until he reached his jaw, he turned Gao Tu around his arms and took his lips with his own, slowly, hungry, desiring. Gao Tu corresponded, matching his energy and pace. One Wenlang’s hands found his hip and pulled him closer, Gao Tu slightly opened his mouth at the contact chance that Wenlang took to slide his tongue in, Gao Tu didn't reject him. The more Wenlang felt Gao Tu the hungrier he got, in a blink he had imprisoned Gao Tu between him and the wall next to the window, they broke apart dazed in each other's expressions, Gao Tu’s lips almost instantly got plumpier and had a different shade; exquisite. Wenlang outlined Gao Tu's bottom lip with his thumb; he wanted them again so badly. Gao Tu's eyes were fixed on Wenlang’s lips, thinking of how to get them again, he slid his arms on the sides of Wenlang’s neck and pulled him, taking his mouth with the same intensity Wenlang had done before. Wenlang pressed his body against Gao Tu's, their body's temperature had gone up. Then Wenlang moved to Gao Tu’s neck spreading wet kisses on it. He loved Gao Tu's neck, but not more than his lips.

“Wenlang” the way he called his name between breaths only incited him and aroused him more.

Then, a bang in the door which startled both of them, they looked at each other with their eyes fully open. 

“A-Tu! Come with us, I saw a place that sells really good tea!” Gao Tu shuts his eyes and purses his lips, Wenlang shoulders drops and turns his head to the door “A-Tu!” another bang.

“I…” Gao Tu whispers, Wenlang points him to the bathroom, Gao Tu nods and moves to the bathroom, splashes water in his face and neck making sure that there isn’t any trace left.  Meanwhile Wenlang inhaled deeply and then exhaled before opening the door.

“What do you want?” he asks with annoyance, Shaoyou lifts an eyebrow. 

“Where is A-Tu?” Hua Yong looked at Wenlang and didn’t say a word, but his eyes said it all, it was mocking him. Wenlang narrowed his eyes, staring at the fox. 

“Washing his face, he was feeling too sleepy” He looks back at Shaoyou while giving him a  smooth lie which Shaoyou eats. 

“Didn’t get enough sleep on the plane?” Wenlang shakes his head.

“Not enough. Is never enough” Hua Yong snorts and Wenlang glares at him “So what is it?” he asked back at Shaoyou.

“Eh, tea. Saw they have a branch of a really good joint here” Wenlang lifts an eyebrow.

“Just tea?” Did he just interrupt them for tea? He notices Hua Yong trying to hide his laugh, but it is pretty much obvious he is laughing, but Shaoyou doesn’t see it, the ‘omega’ was behind him. 

“Oh come on. It is milk tea, I know A-Tu likes it, the plan is to grab tea and walk around” Wenlang nods and exhales; defeated “What is it?” he says finally noticing Wenlang’s attitude “Did I inter-” Wenlang had a yes ready to leave his mouth when they heard footsteps getting closer. 

“Mr. Sheng!” Gao Tu hurried to the door to meet him, part of his hair was a bit damp. “Sorry I needed to wash my face, what were you saying?” he smiles ah, Gao Tu had surely developed that skill of business smile. 

“A-Tu, want to grab tea and look around?” Gao Tu nods and looks at Wenlang.

“I think it sounds good, what do you think Wenlang?” the wolf inner voice screams no, and curses Shaoyou occurrences, but the idea of the trip is that Gao Tu enjoys it too, he nods.

“It’s fine”

They leave the room Shaoyou and Gao Tu walk further than him and he follows, sulking. It was a good moment and he had to ruin it for them.

“I couldn’t stop Mr. Sheng” Hua Yong who was beside him talks still looking at him with mocking eyes “he is too excited to show everything to his friend”  Wenlang stares at him.

“Your alpha doesn’t have any other friends to bother?” he sighs, Hua Yong seems reflecting for a bit.

“Good and sincere as secretary Gao? No” Wenlang sighs again, looking at the backs of the two friends getting further away.

“When did they get so close” then he turns to Hua Yong “It’s all your fault” he accuses “Your insane plan only got them close” Hua Yong tilts his head, getting annoyed but not showing in his face, only in his eyes.

“Would you even be with secretary Gao if they weren’t friends in the first place?” he shots, okay that felt like a punch in the face “I can bet that thick head of yours would probably never had even admitted your feelings for him in the first place” he points, every comment was spot on.

“I'm not that dense” he tried to defend himself. Hua Yong looked at him with an offended and shocked expression.

“You can’t be serious” Hua Yong stops walking and pokes Wenlang chest with his index repeatedly “I realized your stupid ass had been looking at secretary Gao differently since the very first day, and the dumb way you acted when he was around or it was anything related to him happening like a jealous brat” he stops poking him “You were the only one that wasn’t aware of his own feelings, everyone else could tell. Even in the office they know you treat him differently AND it is said how much ‘president Shen likes secretary Gao’” he quotes. Wenlang purses his lips and looks at the floor. 

It was probably true. He might have never realized his feelings if Shaoyou hadn’t interfered. Truth is; he was purely sulking at the fact of had been interrupted earlier, is not like he dislikes their friendship. He felt Hua Yong’s wake up call was uncalled for, but ultimately it was fair, it had put him in his place back again. 

“Okay, okay. I'm dense, are you happy now?” Hua Yong sighs.

“Not just dense. More like a block head, are you sure your brain works properly?” Wenlang shoves him, with barely any strength.

“You are annoying, it works” Hua Yong shoves him back.

“Doesn’t seem like it” Wenlang snorts “Let’s go or they will leave us behind” he says looking at the two friends who were already far in. Wenlang and Hua Yong start walking again.

“Are you not suspicious about Gao Tu and Sheng Shaoyou’s friendship anymore?” Hua Yong shakes his head.

“He thinks of secretary Gao almost like a sibling”  he reflects for a bit “Mr. Sheng doesn’t have the best relationship with his siblings, with secretary Gao is like what he wants out of a siblings relationship” Wenlang nods in silence, it makes sense, the way he had acted towards Gao Tu does check the sibling boxes… So… is he his spiritual brother-in-law? Oh no “Besides, secretary Gao seems to only think of you” Wenlang crooks his head towards Hua Yong.

“Huh?” Hua Yong shakes his head. 

“See? How many brain cells do you have left? More than one?”  Wenlang expression falls and looks at him annoyed. 

“Do you ever say something nice?” Hua Yong’s lips move as he thinks.

“I do. To Mr Sheng” Wenlang rolls his eyes.

“Forget it”

His friendship with Hua Yong lately has been feeling more solidified these days, it feels quite refreshing. He doesn’t feel he needs to be wary of him around Gao Tu anymore, which is nice. 

“Have you told him about X holdings yet?” Hua Yong shakes his head.

“Is not the time yet” is not like he is not planning to tell him, he would, but when the timing is right.

“Then… have you told him you are…” another shake, Wenlang purses his lips “Just don’t do it too late. Or he will find it out, and he might resent you” Hua Yong bites his own lips.

“I don’t think he would” he had thought about it a lot in various nights where he had him beside him. 

“He is quite different from what you knew, don’t you think?” he is… 

“Are you pestering me with free advice now?” Wenlang snorts.

“Well, he did that to me the other day” Hua Yong laughs softly “But Im concerned about you” Hua Yong shakes his head.

“No need” 

But Wenlang’s words stuck with him, almost haunting him. Could it be that the thickheaded wolf was right? Maybe Wenlang was right and he needed to tell Mr. Sheng the truth, but the time didn’t feel right to just spill him everything. Should he just… start telling him the truth by bits and bits? He didn’t talk much with Wenlang while they followed their partners, everyone seemed focused on different things. 

On the other side, Shaoyou and Gao Tu were invested in a conversation of things they wanted to do there. Shaoyou had sent him a list of activities the day before the trip and they had discussed what they felt like doing. At some point Shaoyou turned his head to find the other two way too far from them, Hua Yong was poking Wenlang’s chest and didn’t seem too happy. He took it as a chance and turned to Gao Tu who was going through the list of things he had sent him before.

“A-Tu” he called, Gao Tu looked at him waiting for him to say anything “Do you think it suspicious how Hua Yong is paying everything off too?” Gao Tu tilting his head, is exactly what he had been thinking but trying to not get too into it “I tried offering to cover this or part of the trip, but he refused. He covered everything” 

“Isn’t there a possibility of him being of a well off family?” Shaoyou bites his lips.

“But then… how much of what I know of him is true?” it was valid for Shaoyou to have these doubts. 

“I… don’t know” he pauses “But… I don’t think he is lying about loving you and the interest he has on you” he confirms, he had witnessed it that day shopping. It seems like all Hua Yong has in his mind is Mr. Sheng.

“Do you… really think so?” Gao Tu nods.

“Will you ask him about all of this?” Shaoyou purses his lips, it is not like he doesn't want the truth, but what if it's more than what he can handle?

He doesn’t want to be hurt, he loves Hua Yong and some of the things he does confuses him and takes him out of their love bubble.

Chapter Text

They realized their partners were way behind them, they stopped, waiting for them to talk again about the things they want to do and the things they want to see. 

“By the way, A-Tu. I noticed earlier but didn’t say anything, did you two planned to coordinate outfits?” Gao Tu could see why he would ask, they were dressing pretty similar, both of them were wearing unbuttoned oversized tartan shirts over white tank tops, the difference was the color; Wenlang’s was red and his was blue, they had matching black colored cargo shorts as well.

“Well…” he says feeling embarrassed, truth was, Wenlang didn’t explicitly insist on matching before leaving the house, but he silently changed clothes after he saw him. Gao Tu just didn’t have the heart to tell him anything about it  “kinda? Happy coincidence I guess” Shaoyou snorted.

“I assume he decided it on his own” Gao Tu laughed and nodded “He really goes crazy when it is about you, eh”. They kept looking at their partners catching up to them. It didn’t take too long for the other two to catch up “Why are you both walking so slow?” Shaoyou protested, Hua Yong just smiled, like he usually does when it is about him.

“Slow? Both of you were too busy talking to pay attention to us” Shaoyou stared at Wenlang.

“Sorry I guess, we were busy having fun just the two of us” without breaking eye contact Shaoyou slid an arm over Gao Tu’s shoulders who just looked at the tiger shaking his head. Wenlang feels the corner of his eye twitch. 

“Ah so that’s how it is?” he says and looks at Hua Yong, he had the idea of doing something similar, but he can’t bring himself to be THAT comfortable with him, that’s not how their friendship is. Hua Yong clinged on Shaoyou.

“Mr. Sheng you left me” he surely is good, like that he earned Shaoyou’s complete attention.

“So where is that famous milk tea of yours?” Wenlang asked him.

“Ah, yeah. This way” he said, releasing Gao Tu and holding Hua Yong’s hand. Wenlang took the change and held Gao Tu’s hand as they followed them. Wenlang leaned to Gao Tu’s ear and whispered

“The collar of your shirt is wet” Gao Tu felt his face getting warm.

“It’s your fault” Wenlang has a smug smile on his face.

“Is it?” He enjoys teasing him. Gao Tu just stares at him.

“I didn’t know you were such a big pervert.” Wenlang smiled wider, and with the hand he was holding Gao Tu’s points at his face.

“You weren’t complaining though” Gao Tu pursed his lips, he absolutely didn’t dislike it. And has to admit part of him wasn’t happy at the interruption.

“Wenlang” he mumbled, moving their hands away, feeling embarrassed.

“Yes?” he kept teasing. 

“Where are you guys going? Is here” Shaoyou’s voice made them snap back to reality, they were walking past the tea shop. Wenlang sighs.

“My bad” he says and goes back to them noticing Hua Yong amused, it might be a long day after all.

Once everyone had their tea they kept walking around the resort, everything looked extremely nice, and the weather was perfect. Gao Tu had read that the resort had restaurants, coffee shops, a bar, gym, a small park, stores, and a swimming pool. It was like a small city. Gao Tu noticed a few stops and saw a few carts going around the resort taking people to different spots of the place… it was even bigger than what he had thought. 

“Since it's our first day here we could do a light tour” proposed Hua Yong before taking a sip from his cup Shaoyou nodded “tomorrow it should be a couples day, right?” he said, looking at Shaoyou with round eyes.  He seemed a bit down but nodded anyway “We can meet up for dinner” Shaoyou lit up.

“Agree, there's a few restaurants that seem pretty nice. I was talking about that with A-Tu awhile ago” Shaoyou really seemed like he was enjoying the trip. It was kinda loveable.

“Do you promise to leave us alone tomorrow if we have dinner together?” Wenlang said earning a stare from the couple.

Gao Tu looked at them interact, laughing and suddenly felt a shiver down his spine. He looked around, but didn’t spot anything suspicious, it seemed pretty normal… but he had the feeling something was on him, studying him, watching him. Almost predatory, he looked at the three of them but it seemed they didn’t feel the same as he did. 

“A-Tu? Are you okay?” Gao Tu blinked and looked at Shaoyou.

“Y-Yes. Sorry I got distracted” he notices Hua Yong staring at some point behind him, but doesn’t mention anything, Wenlang and Shaoyou were too concerned looking at him to even notice.  

“What’s wrong, Baobei? Are you feeling sick?” he immediately takes his face and examines it “You seem a bit paler… What’s wrong?” he sounds worried, Gao Tu shakes his head, and places a hand on Wenlang’s wrist.

“I'm okay, I just got distracted. That is all, don’t worry” he smiles at Wenlang and that seems to calm him. He holds Wenlang’s hand tightly. 

“A-Tu, if you feel sick let us know” Gao Tu smiles at Shaoyou.

“Im really okay, don’t worry Mr. Sheng” he says and looks at Hua Yong who was on his phone, texting “Where are we going next?” 

“We were talking about going to the restaurant area,”  Gao Tu nodded.

“Let’s go then”  

Hua Yong stood behind them still on his phone, he lifted his eyes and fixed them on the same spot he had before. On his phone he had sent a single message.

Hua Yong: Don't scare the rabbit.

“Hua Yong?” Shaoyou called him from afar “Are you coming?” Hua Yong looked at his way, nodded, and walked up to him “What’s wrong?” he whispered.

“Nothing. Already solved” he smiled “How is secretary Gao?” he looked at the back of the couple in front him.

“He says he is okay… but he seems… shaken?” Shaoyou lowered his voice even more “It's not like we are in danger, are we?”  Hua Yong shook his head.

“No, we are not. Even if we were, I would protect you Mr. Sheng” he hugged his arm tightly, that changed Shaoyou’s mood. 

“You will? That should be my job” Hua Yong chuckles.

“I would never let Mr. Sheng get hurt” 

It took a bit for Gao Tu to relax again, he still felt alert, for some reason. Wenlang on his side was showing him around pointing to things and explaining to him what they were, specially the constructions on the resting areas, they had odd shapes, architecture designs he didn’t really understand but everything looked amazing. 

“I like being with you, Wenlang” he said, interrupting god-knows-what Wenlang was telling him about the ornaments. Wenlang looks at him, smiles and then pulls him close to kiss him on the cheek.

“I like it too” he was looking at him with such endearing eyes, glowing “Are you feeling better?” 

“I am, I just got distracted and startled” Wenlang thightens the grab of his hand.

“If you ever start feelin-” Gao Tu touched his shoulder interrupting him.

“I'm okay Wenlang. I promise, if I don’t feel good I will tell you, okay?” That helped to reassure Wenlang a bit, they kept walking holding each other's hands. 

It was like they were in their own world, they had forgotten about Hua Yong and Shaoyou. Wenlang continued making small conversation with Gao Tu about the things they were seeing. Gao Tu was quite impressed by the place, he had gone on business trips with Wenlang in the past, but in those basically they would sort off work, go back to the hotel and if there was a chance they would do a small tour around the city, a good restaurant and call it the day… which reminded him that conversation they ‘had’ when Wenlang spammed his phone on that outing with Mr. Sheng. Gao Tu spots a nice garden set up and points it to Wenlang who follows him.

“What is it?” he asked, Gao Tu pulled out his phone, Wenlang looked at him surprised feeling a new type of emotion. They took a picture together, the first one Gao Tu had taken of them since they had been together “Take another one” he said kissing his cheek, Gao Tu felt embarrassed but took it either way “Your turn” he says taking the phone from him tilting his head offering him his cheek. Gao Tu hesitated for a bit, but did it. Then Wenlang hugged his shoulders with one arm and pulled him closer to kiss his lips briefly, he took a picture of it too. Wenlang put the phone in his pocket and caressed Gao Tu’s cheek and left his thumb under Gao Tu’s bottom lip “You know… Im still hungry from earlier” his eyes were glued to Gao Tu’s lips.

“Thats why we are looking for a restaurant, blockhead” Again, Shaoyou had managed to disrupt their mood. Wenlang stared at him.

“You are doing this on purpose, aren’t you?” Shaoyou took a sip of his own drink.

“Doing what?” He took another sip. He really seemed clueless. Wenlang sighs and lets Gao Tu go “Let’s go, A-Tu” he called, Gao Tu looked at Wenlang, then back to Shaoyou and nodded then followed him, leaving Hua Yong and Wenlang behind, again.

“Isn’t he usually more perceptive? It is not like a plane flew close to the sun to fry his brain” he said with a sour expression looking at Hua Yong who just narrowed his eyes.

“I guess Mr. Sheng is too excited to have a trip with friends” he sighs.

“And you are just going to let him be?” Hua Yong nodded.

“Why not? He looks happy. As long as he is happy” Wenlang gave him a dirty look.

“What about my happiness?”  Hua Yong rolled his eyes.

“You are being dramatic. You will have secretary Gao for yourself all day tomorrow” They began to walk behind the friends once again.

“Do I?” Hua Yong nodded and a malicious smile crossed his face. Wenlang sighed. So that's what he meant “Why did you ask us to come?” Hua Yong doesn’t look at him and keeps walking.

“As a favor” Wenlang frowned.

“To who?” Hua Yong just chuckles “I know it is not for me. That's for sure, you don’t do that kind of thing”.

“You sure are ungrateful” he darts a glare towards Wenlang.

“What do you want?” Hua Yong dropped his shoulders, annoyed.

“Nothing” 

Wenlang didn’t try to ask anymore, still was a bit suspicious. But Gao Tu being safe and happy was enough for him.

They ended up going to a restaurant both Shaoyou and Gao Tu had picked. By the time they had arrived they were already starting to feel hungry. The lunch went nice, Shaoyou and Gao Tu seemed to be having a different trip where it was only the two of them. They got amazed by the same things, the other two mostly just observed them having fun.

“Should we go to the pool after?” Shaoyou asked after taking a bite from his food. 

“Right after?” Gao Tu asked, before Shaoyou even had the chance to reply Wenlang spoke.

“Nah, there are still many things to see. We can go to the swimming pool later” Shaoyou looked at Hua Yong who nodded.

“I think so too” he supported Wenlang. 

“Okay” didn't sound bad at all. Better see everything they can before deciding what to do. 

After dessert they took a stroll around the resort, they saw different activities, they even catched a glimpse of the swimming pool. They went to a perfume store just to look around, Wenlang saw they had some of their fragrances on the shelves.

“Look, our toilet cleaner made it to Country V” he teased Shaoyou.  The fragrance in particular is exactly the same as Shaoyou’s pheromones. Shaoyou glares at him ready to defend himself.

“I think it's lovely” Hua Yong mentioned and right off the bat requested the clerk to give him one. 

“Hua Yon-” the tiger looked at Hua Yong receiving a perfume strip with the fragrance moving to smell it.

“I really like this smell” he looked at Shaoyou’s eyes and then changed to his lips making him smile and shake his head softly. Wenlang looked at them, disgusted, they managed to flip his joke into flirt. Wenlang looks at Gao Tu who is still looking at the fragrances.

“Do you want to try one?” he asks, giving him his full attention. 

Both couples got absorbed into their own worlds, Gao Tu and Wenlang exchanged fragrances multiple times; they had similar tastes. Wenlang got stuck with a certain fragrance that had hints of sage, it was subtle, but once it was smelt it would linger on his nose. He liked it, it was like Gao Tu; subtle and once it was noticed couldn’t stop thinking about them. 

Gao Tu went through different fragrances, he found something similar to irises, a bit close to Wenlang’s smell. It wasn't bad. But he liked the real thing which meant; Shen Wenlang. There is where Gao Tu takes a moment to reflect, maybe his feelings for Wenlang are bigger than he thought. When he looks at him, he notices Wenlang is pretty focused on the strip he is smelling; those serious eyes, the way his eyebrows slightly frown when he is thinking, Wenlang almost always presses his lips after expressing a well thought idea, the way he opens and closes his hand one finger at the time as his thoughts are slowly diverting. Gao Tu is sure he probably doesn't even know he does this when he is so concentrated, he smiles with a bit of nostalgia; the first time he noticed was when they were at school, is a habit it really carried on till his adulthood. He sees Wenlang focusing back, he blinks two times before giving him a smile, that's how he knows he is looking at him and paying him attention. 

“Did you find something you like?” was the first thing he asked him, Gao Tu nods and steps closer to his ear.

“This” Gao Tu held his free hand, Wenlang let out a short laugh and bumped his head with Gao Tu's.

“Did any perfume pick your interest?” Gao Tu shakes his head.

“Not really, I like the ones the company makes” Wenlang takes a moment to think.

“What about this one?” He took the strip Gao Tu had been smelling before and noticed the irises hint, he got a smug smile “Are you sure you don't like this one?”

“Yes, I do. But I like our fragrances more” our, that gave Wenlang an idea, he definitively has a new project coming up as soon as they get back home. 

“Oh, you do?” Wenlang decided to move his hand to caress Gao Tu's hand in a seductive and subtle manner; his thumb caressed the back of Gao Tu's hand in circular motions. He leaned his head close to Gao Tu’s face “how do you like them?” 

Gao Tu realizes his words might have been misunderstood but, he doesn’t really mind, he likes the mood they have right now. Having Wenlang teasing him, flirting with him so shamelessly makes him feel desired by him and it feels wonderful, he might get addicted. No, he is getting addicted to it. Despite his efforts to try to not get swayed by it, he can't put up much resistance anymore. Wenlang holding him, his caresses, his kisses, had become already addictive. Gao Tu keeps fighting to not get swayed so fast, he doesn't want to lose himself in Wenlang, despite being so tempting, he wants to enjoy being with him… as if he is making up for those years of yearning, is a way to indulge his younger self; by taking it slowly. There is also a part of him -that grows smaller as the time goes by with Wenlang- trying to hold him back thinking all of it might just be a dream, is too good to be real.

Usually his excuse would be the shame, he feels embarrassed by the sudden contact Wenlang provides him with, but he notices how shame is gradually disappearing and only gets incited to do more with Wenang when he is in his arms having his mouth practically devoured by the wolf, he likes it, he enjoys it. It feels like playing with fire, there is a certain bewitching spark on it. 

“I like it when is… the two of us” his face is close, almost brushing his lips. Wenlang feels tempted right there, but he has to control himself. He conforms with rubbing his nose with his own as he brushes his lips to break apart and look for the clerk who calls with a gesture.

“We are getting these, thanks” the clerk smiles and packs his order, he pays while Gao Tu who was feeling his face hot, looks for the other couple they were still happily going through fragrances unaware of anything else “Baobei?” he turns to Wenlang who already has the bags with him “What's wrong?” his hand lands on Gao Tu’s waist, he presses his fingers softly but firm on him while he looks at his eyes as if he were a hungry predator. 

“N-nothing, I was looking for them” he averts his gaze. As he thought, embarrassment is slowly fading away. 

“Should we ditch them?” he whispered in his ear with a deep voice “I don’t think they are going to notice” he rested his chin on his shoulder. Wenlang’s offer is really tempting. He wants to agree and run with him back to the room… but there’s Mr. Sheng too… They agreed on visiting the pool, he was pretty excited for it… but Wenlang’s grasp on his waist makes him forget about it.

“Uhm” Wenlang quickly moves his hand to hold Gao Tu’s  “I'm sorry Mr. Sheng, I’m still tired from the plane ride after all” he said, earning a look from the other couple  Shaoyou looked at him concerned “But I think I’ll be okay with a nap, do you mind if we meet later in the pool?” screw it, screw it all. He wants to be with Wenlang right now. Shaoyou looks disappointed but ends up nodding.

“It’s okay A-Tu, go rest. We can meet after” Gao Tu feels bad, but nods “Send me a message after you wake up” 

“Thank you, I will. See you later Mr. Sheng, secretary Hua” Wenlang just waves at them and walks out with Gao Tu. 

“Maybe A-Tu shouldn’t have come after all, he is still recovering” Hua Yong holds a laugh.

“I think it's just the plane ride, don’t worry Mr. Sheng. I’ll keep you company” the fox isn't even mad about them leaving them, that meant more time alone with Mr. Sheng. That was enough. 

Wenlang guided Gao Tu to the nearest stop where luckily a cart was passing by, they got in and got back to their hotel room, as soon as they entered Wenlang left the bags forgotten somewhere near the closed door, he was too busy devouring Gao Tu’s mouth to even care about it. Wenlang imprisons Gao Tu against the wall next to the door without breaking their lips apart, his hands met Gao Tu’s hip  pulling them closer to him and sneaking between his legs one of his owns, Gao Tu lets go a sound and as the opportunistic wolf Wenlang is; he slid his tongue in properly devouring him. 

Their bodies temperature rises, as the room was getting filled with wet and uneven breath noises, Wenlang takes Gao Tu’s shirt and drops it somewhere in the floor, part of his shoulders and collarbone are exposed by the tank top, he breaks their lips apart and leans to kiss one of his shoulders, which he quickly abandons to kiss Gao Tu’s neck base and slides his right hand under Gao Tu’s tanktop feeling all his skin as he makes his way up. Wenlang goes back to Gao Tu’s mouth and slides his free hand on the other side of Gao Tu’s upper body, making all the skin underneath his hand burn almost instantly. Without stopping kissing him Wenlang slides Gao Tu’s tanktop up and only parts lips to take it off, Wenlang’s hands now go Gao Tu’s waist and pulls him closer and lifts his leg slightly making his knee meet Gao Tu’s crotch who lets out a groan. 

“Wen…lang” he manages to breathe out, Wenlang takes his hips and lifts him to carry Gao Tu to the bed, where he leaves him on the mattress. Gao Tu observes him from the bed; Wenlang has a glow in his eyes filled with lust, his breath was uneven as well. Gao Tu looks at him placing his hands on his shirt ready to take it off. “Come” he called him accompanied with a finger. 

Wenlang is surprised but obeys right away getting on top of Gao Tu who sat on the bed and pulled Wenlang’s face closer again, kissing him for the first time Gao Tu slid his tongue in Wenlang’s mouth in a bit clumsier manner as he was taking his shirt off. Wenlang places his hands on the sides of Gao Tu’s face and breaks the kiss apart, excited. 

“You were hungry too?” He asks to go back to Gao Tu’s neck, but at the last second decides to kiss over his collarbone and bite it softly.

“Ple-please don’t leave marks” Gao Tu pleaded between breaths “We need to go to the pool after” Wenlang clicked his tongue, and nods, he goes back to Gao Tu’s neck to trail it with kisses and soft bites “Wenlang” he warns.

“I know” his voice sounds too deep, was it excitement or annoyance? Maybe a bit of both. 

He slowly trailed down his mouth to Gao Tu chest, he teased him with getting closer to his buds teasing him with his mouth without taking it, then  slide his hand to his chest to caress one of them as he keep going down through Gao Tu’s body; enjoying it, having the first taste after so long felt like giving a single drop to a  thirsty man in the dessert. Wenlang is  only stopped by the edge of the cargo shorts, he takes it as a break to look at Gao Tu’s face; is a mess, a lovely mess, his lips parted and shaky, his eyes consumed by desire glimmering focused on him and only him, his cheeks colored by a subtle pink; delightful. Wenlang takes off his shirt and flips Gao Tu making him rest over his stomach, Wenlang immediately kisses his shoulder and keeps trailing down with kisses and licks till his lower back. Wenlang uses his hand to slide from his thigh to the edge of the fabric, before he could do anything else he feels Gao Tu’s arm wrapping his neck pulling him to his mouth kissing him. After the kiss Gao Tu shyly licks Wenlang’s chin before placing a short kiss on it.

“Don’t put it in,” he mumbles. Wenlang purses his lips.

“Shit” he whispers “lend me your thighs” Gao Tu nods and turns to him, putting his back on the mattress once again and pulling him close again for a hungry kiss. 

“Be gentle, Wenlang” Wenlang uses all his might to fulfill his request, but lets his aroused pheromones fill the place, soon the smell of sage joins.

The bed ended up being a mess, bed sheets were everywhere, and the pillows were scattered over, the couple was nowhere to be seen. From the bathroom a conversation was audible, both of them were in the bathtub, talking. Gao Tu’s back was on Wenlang’s chest.

“Do you really want to go to the pool, Baobei?” he asks, holding his hand placing his forehead on Gao Tu’s shoulder. 

“We have to, we already agreed with Mr. Sheng”  Wenlang kisses his shoulder. And sighs.

“We could have stayed as we were”

After they had their first taste of the other, they were laying down in the bed, Wenlang had him close to his chest when Gao Tu’s phone rang, he had received a message from Shaoyou checking on him. After a bit of conversation they agreed on meeting in the pool in an hour. Hence why they were taking a bath, that actually took them time to get where they were. Wenlang had tried again to have a snack in the shower and after Gao Tu put his foot down threatening him with not even kissing him anymore he had to agree to just bath. 

True to his word he had beheaved, he didn’t leave any mark despite wanting to leave at least one on Gao Tu’s porcelain skin and didn’t push for anything else, he did though, caress Gao Tu’s buttocks more than the owner would have liked. Once again Wenlang sighs.

“What’s wrong?” Gao Tu asked, Wenlang hugged him over his shoulder and left one hand hanging dangerously close to Gao Tu’s chest who rolled his eyes “You keep surprising me by how big of a pervert you are” Wenlang chuckles.

“Can you blame me?” he nuzzles his nose against Gao Tu’s neck “You made me insatiable” with one hand, makes Gao Tu turn his face and gives him a short kiss on his lips.

“You are exaggerating,” he laughs. 

“Not at all,” Gao Tu snorts.

After the bath they got ready wearing different clothes and fixed a bag with towels and changing clothes, Gao Tu stared at the bed and had some flashes of their activities, he swallowed and moved his head away.  Wenlang suppressed the temptation of saying anything and just held his hand.

“Ready?” Gao Tu glanced at him then at the bed, then at him again. It seemed that while he was getting ready Wenlang had placed all the bedsheets on the same spot “Don’t mind it” Gao Tu scratched the back of his head “Or do you want to be back there? We can solve that reall-”

“No, let's go” part of Wenlang can’t help but feel a bit hurt but thinks it's funny, the rejection came in so fast. Before leaving Wenlang marks on the panel of the room requesting housekeeping service. 

At the pool they met with the couple, Hua Yong subtly scans them over without mentioning a word. Shaoyou on the other hand seemed happy to see Gao Tu refreshed and replenished, it seemed it had been a really good nap.

Then once again, Shaoyou and Gao Tu once they are reunited is like seeing two good old friends that never run out of things to talk about. Shaoyou had been the first one jumping into the pool after talking with Gao Tu, he joined him soon after.

“So you both took a nap” Hua Yong casually mentioned to Wenlang who was taking a sip of a drink, he almost choked on it. 

“Yeah, plain and simple. Why?” he averted his eyes. Hua Yong just nodded and looked in Shaoyou's direction “Did you both stick around?” Hua Yong nodded.

“Yes, we kept looking around then we went back to rest for a bit before Mr. Sheng texted secretary Gao” Wenlang nodded and tried to take a sip of his drink once again “Aren’t you going to join them?” Wenlang shakes his head.

“Not really. I don't feel like going in” he sits in one of the chairs and Hua Yong follows almost instantly.

“Probably Mr. Sheng is going to bring up the idea of having dinner together” he mentions casually, Wenlang looks at him tired “Don’t bother. Let him be. He made a research for this” 

“You indulge him too much” Hua Yong raises an eyebrow.

“And you don’t do the same with secretary Gao?” he looks at the pair in the swimming pool “are we going to pretend you weren’t wearing matching outfits?”  Wenlang looked at him offended.

“You are the least person that can say that, look at you. Literally even matched the cap. Get some shame, would you?”  Hua Yong stared at Wenlang and then shook his head.

“You two are not joining?” Shaoyou asked them.

“I don’t feel like it Mr. Sheng, but if you want me to, I can get in” that smile on the lunatic’s face, for some reason it creeped him out. 

“Sure, why not?” Wenlang gets up and looks at Hua Yong who darts a glare at him, as a warning.

“Don’t you even dare” Wenlang laughs.

“Do what?” He gets closer to Hua Yong.

“Shen Wenlang, I know what you are thinking, I’ll make you disappear if u even try it to” the wolf laughs one last time before leaning on him.

“Oh come on, you are a weak omega right now. Forgot about it?” he whispers and in a blink he carries Hua Yong like a sack of potatoes on his shoulder and drops him into the pool, then laughs mocking the fox who is completely drenched. Wenlang points at him and laughs louder, Shaoyou takes his arm and pulls him in the pool “Hey! What do you think you are doing?”

“Uh, I thought blocks usually sink…” Wenlang exhales.

“Don’t mind him Mr. Sheng, probably his empty head working as a floaty“ he teased, swimming closer to Shaoyou.  Wenlang looks at Gao Tu who is just laughing at the scene.  

“Baaobeeei” he calls, getting closer to him.

“Oh no, you deserved it” he replies, backing away from him still laughing. 

They spent the rest of the afternoon like that, having fun at the pool. Shaoyou and Wenlang having swimming competitions, Hua Yong just looking at them from a distance on a floating mattress, enjoying the moment. Gao Tu was looking at them floating near the coping of the pool, then again, he felt the hairs of the back of his head spiking; something or someone was watching him, he tried looking around the most subtle way he could, but like the last time, he didn't see anything.

“Secretary Gao, come” Hua Yong’s voice takes him out of his startling mood, and swims closer to Hua Yong “Do you think these two will get bored anytime soon?” He asks, looking at the two alphas who seem to be discussing and arranging another race.

“Not really. They are quite competitive” then they look at them with another race beginning.

After a few races, which almost every single one of them ended in draws, Gao Tu gestures to Wenlang to get closer, Wenlang quickly joins him. His hair is wet pulled back getting a clearer view to his face, he is, indeed, good-looking.

“What's wrong, Baobei?” He pulls him closer by the waist. Again, Wenlang touch always managed to feel his skin heating up. 

“Nothing, I thought maybe secretary Hua would like a moment with Mr. Sheng” the alpha presses their foreheads together.

“Is it? Or were you missing me?” He teases getting closer to his lips. Gao Tu feels his face burning up.

“There's more people around…” he mumbles.

“They can watch” Wenlang meets his lips in a slow kiss, Gao Tu doesn't refuse he even puts his hands on Wenlang’s shoulders “I…” he begins after the kiss slightly lost on Gao Tu’s lips “Kinda want to go back to the room” Gao Tu bites his own lips,  thinking.

“Mr. Sheng already mentioned wanting to have dinner together” he mumbles, Wenlang shuts his eyes. Ah that damned tiger “but… we have tomorrow for ourselves… right?” He is embarrassed, not even meeting Wenlang’s eyes. Wenlang smiles and draws his face closer.

“What does it mean, Baobei? I quite didn't catched it” he teases.

“You know what I mean” he averts his eyes.

“Oh, full course?” Gao Tu’s lips become a thin line “don't worry, we can do some other thi-” Gao Tu’s shushes him with his finger.

“We can. Just don't leave marks in visible places” Wenlang eyes glow, and pulls him closer lifting him “Wenla-” He kisses Gao Tu again, for longer. They only break apart because Gao Tu gets away “there's too many people around, Wenlang” he whispers, he is right there are people scattered around the pool, but each on their worlds, even their friends were too busy flirting with each other. 

“Can we go back?” Deep and a husky voice loaded with desire getting his face closer. Gao Tu shakes his head.

“After dinner. Beheave” orders… ah an order? Does Wenlang like them? No he doesnt… but it is Gao Tu’s order… he can work with that. He nods. 

“Reward me” Gao Tu caresses his cheek silently agreeing.

After the pool Shaoyou had, indeed, proposed dinner together. They agreed and each of them changed clothes and got on their way to a restaurant, different from the first one they visited. Gao Tu and Wenlang were sitting together in front of Shaoyou and Hua Yong in a table covered by a red  table cloth that almost touched the floor. They had a lively dinner, in which at some point, Wenlang left his hand resting on Gao Tu’s thigh. Gao Tu startled at the sudden contact and looked at Wenlang who was just focused on the conversation with the other two who didn’t even seem to notice.  Slowly Wenlang’s hand slid into his inner thigh and pressed the tip of his fingers carrying on with the conversation, sneaking a look at him without moving his head, just to check the rabbit's reaction. Gao Tu did his best to pretend it didn’t bother him trying to hide the jolts caused by his caresses; Wenlang would grab his thigh, let it go, slide his hand down or up, then grab it again and repeat. Until his hand got too dangerously close to Gao Tu’s opinion and firmly grabbed Wenlang’s wrist, stopping him.

“I know we have access to a beach as well, we should go and check it out” said Shaoyou, Hua Yong nodded.

“We should, we should. What about the day after tomorrow?” Gao Tu didn’t even bother looking at Wenlang and kept the conversation going.

“Aw. So we are really not meeting tomorrow?”  Shaoyou asked, feeling disappointed.

“We will, Mr. Sheng, at dinner” Hua Yong answered by holding his hand “but we need quality time too”  Gao Tu let out a nervous laugh and agreed.

“Yes, Mr. Hua is correct” Hua Yong stared at Gao Tu.

“Mr. Hua?” he asked, Gao Tu blinked and tilted his head.

“Oh. I'm sorry, I shouldn’t call you like that?” The fox  took a moment to think then shook his head. Is not like he wasn’t used to be called Mr. Hua, but it didn’t feel right at all. 

“No, is not that. Is it just…”  but he can’t bring himself to say it.

“What about Mr. Yong?”  Gao Tu proposes, and still, it doesn’t sound good for him, he crooks his head.

“Maybe, Hua Yong?” Shaoyou interferes and Hua Yong thinks about it and ends up nodding.

“Yes, I think that's better” Gao Tu tilts his head.

“I think Hua Yong feels like calling him mister is like putting distance” Shaoyou says and sees how Hua Yong’s frown disappears, he is right, he had easily put in words what it was on his mind.

“Oh, Mr. Sheng, do you mind being called this way?” He shakes his head.

“It’s okay, but if you want to call me You Ge I won’t oppose it” he chuckles, Wenlang darts a glare making him laugh harder. Wenlang’s thought of him being  like his spiritual-brother-in-law haunted him back. Ugh. 

“Is Shaoyou okay with you then?” Shaoyou’s eyes lit up, he nodded “Thanks”

“No prob, Xiao Di” Gao Tu and Shaoyou laughed while Wenlang observed, chuckling. 

Gao Tu let go of Wenlang's wrist and as  soon as released he ended up placing his hand on Gao Tu’s knee. That was better, the rest of the dinner went great, Wenlang didn’t try anything else and the group left for their hotel rooms.

“See you, A-Tu. Good night” Shaoyou waved at Gao Tu as they walked past them to their room. Gao Tu waved back to the two of them. 

“Good night, Shaoyou, Hua Yong” he opened the room door.

“Good night psychos” The couple rolled their eyes at Wenlang and left. Gao Tu got in the room first followed by Wenlang. Gao Tu stood after he turned the lights and saw the bed neatly done, in an almost robotic way he turned to Wenlang “What’s wrong?”

“Did you… call for housekeeping?” Wenlang nods. Gao Tu feels his face burning. Suddenly being washed by waves of embarrassment, he covers his face.

“What's wrooong, Baobei?”  he asks, putting his hands over Gao Tu’s waist “Heey” he calls, rubbing his nose against Gao Tu’s neck “I was wondering when we were going to have time for ourselves again” he kisses his neck and Gao Tu breaks apart “Baobei?” 

“You didn’t behave during dinner at all” Wenlang looks at him with round eyes.

“I’m sorry, but it looked so good… and was remembering the feeling” his hands motions a grab in the air which Gao Tu stares unamused. “Please?” he tries without touching him. Gao Tu looks at him sternly “Okay, I'm going to take a shower.” He knows he can’t convince him, he sighs and goes to the bathroom.

Gao Tu looks at the bed, he can almost see it sparkling, fuelling his embarrassment, someone had to clean the mess they did, he can’t help but feel completely shy about it. He sits on the bed and ends up covering his face by the thought of someone getting in the room, he throws his back on the bed. God, it was embarrassing. 

But once he is on the bed he remembers Wenlang towering over him in the bed, his erotic kisses and starts feeling something different from shame, arousal, he touches his lips as if he could feel Wenlang’s warmth on his again. He touches his own chest with his free hand and slowly trails his hand down over his clothes, similarly like Wenlang had done before; remembering his touch and how his skin almost burned right after Wenlang touched him… Gao Tu starts feeling hotter, his hand reaches his inner thigh and presses it, firm, just like Wenlang had done it during the dinner. He felt something under his own hand, but it wasn’t remotely similar to what he had felt when Wenlang did it, that’s how he finds himself craving for his touch… his thumb brushes close to his groin, tempted to feel himself replicating Wenlang’s feverish caresses on himself. His thumb is brushing the waistband of the pants slowly pulling it down when suddenly the sound of the water stops, it felt like a bucket of cold water had been poured at him bringing him back to reality. He sits in the bed the fastest he can and looks in the bathroom direction from where Wenlang comes wearing a bathrobe drying his hair with a towel. 

“Bathroom is free” Gao Tu nods, grabs his pajamas and goes to the bathroom. Leaving Wenlang a bit confused, he didn't mutter a single word, but let it be.

At the bathroom Gao Tu hugged the clothes and felt his heart pounding loudly in his chest, he almost got caught in his feelings. Reluctantly he enters the shower and baths having constant flashes of them in the bathroom; the way Wenlang cornered him into the tiles and was making out with him constantly pressing their naked bodies together with water falling upon them, how he would kiss his neck and tease him with leaving marks on his skin by softly biting him, awakening something in Gao Tu; wanting to see and wanting to feel how it was to have a mark from his mouth in his body, anywhere but his gland. He found himself longing for a hickey made by Wenlang as a consequence of drowning in pleasure, the way he can only make him feel. A mark, a feeling, pleasure… Wenlang.

Gao Tu leaves the shower feeling hotter than when he got in. He wears his pajamas and dries his hair with the hair dryer, determined, he is willing to suppress his embarrassment for this; he needs it. He fixes his hair and wears his glasses before looking at himself in the mirror one last time encouraging himself. He leaves the bathroom on steady and firm steps back to the room where he finds Wenlang with his bathrobe sitting on the bed busy with his phone.

“Ah, Baobei” he calls looking at him leaving the phone in the night stand, Gao Tu doesn't say anything and keeps a serious face as he walks closer to the bed “Uh. What's wrong, Baobei?” Wenlang got anxious, Gao Tu didn't say anything and kept that stern look in his eyes. Wenlang extends an arm towards him “Are you mad for what I did at dinner?” he asks, Gao Tu scans his face, his eyes, nose, lips and stays there for a while “I know you told me to behave. We can just cuddle toni-” Gao Tu gets in the bed and he straddles over Wenlang’s lap, shutting  his mouth and almost his brain too in the process “Tu-tutu?” He stuttered.

“you see, Wenlang” he starts sliding his index under the wolf's chin making him look directly to his eyes “I am a really patient man and I can, almost, always keep my composure” Wenlang is quiet, listening, feeling a lot of different things at the same time, but the most predominant of them is; arousal “But my patience has a limit” Gao Tu's fingers brushes Wenlang’s neck and his thumb rests trailing his jawline “and you have been messing up with those limits” Gao Tu leans in Wenlang face “I need you to hold responsibility” Wenlang gets out of his trance and places his hands on Gao Tu's hips without tearing his eyes apart. 

“Where is the shyness?” He growls in a deep voice, he lowers his hands and feels the texture of his pajama pants, but something is missing,  that's the only time he stops looking at Gao Tu and looks at his hips instead “You are not wearin-” Gao Tu places his hands on Wenlang’s shoulders shutting him.

“Im dying from embarrassment here” he admits, Wenlang looks at him surprised,  he doesn't look like the usual when he is embarrassed. Not that he is complaining but- ah, he sees it, his ears are brightly red “But this is how far I'm willing to go” he pushes in and meets Wenlang's lips in a really sensual motion, Wenlang straightens himself trying to recover some control he has left -if he has any- he pulls Gao Tu closer accommodating him over his groin.

“I thought rabbits were herbivores” he mumbles over his lips once their mouths tear apart. Gao Tu kisses him again and leaves his mouth slowly, softly biting and pulling his bottom lip with his teeth. 

“It's your fault” he holds Wenlang's neck with both arms and kisses him again, deeper. 

Wenlang is trying to correspond with Gao Tu's hunger, matching his pace feels harder this time, well this is the first time Gao Tu has started it. Wenlang is absolutely not complaining; he enjoys it, as he had thought before a bit more dominant Gao Tu was the best. He is pressing his hips against his own body when he suddenly feels Gao Tu grinding on top of him. That's enough for him to throw away whatever grams of reasonability he has left, so he takes off Gao Tu's shirt. He kisses him again, hungrier with sounds getting wetter in their mouths, Gao Tu slides his bathrobe from his shoulders leaving Wenlang’s chest exposed, Wenlang’s hands are at Gao Tu's upper body feeling it, squeezing, identifying, he loves the feeling, his hands trails down to the waistband and pulls it down exposing Gao Tu’s skin, he is suddenly stopping by the rabbit who puts his hands over  his and breaks their faces apart.  

“Wear a condom” Wenlang blinks and takes a bit to process the information, then nods, dazed. 

Wenlang targets his neck this time, tempted to leave behind some marks on it, but Gao Tu's previous words echo in his head not in visible places. The best his brain can reason is to give him a kiss mark near his collar bone, inadvertently fulfilling one Gao Tu's wishes. Gao Tu lets out a sound.

“More” he breathes. Wenlang nods,  and makes sure to honor his demand. Gao Tu's hands had let go of Wenlang's hands and now they were on Wenlang’s shoulder trying to stabilize himself and not fall backwards.

“I love your skin” he mentions before leaving another kiss mark on it “matches these marks so well” he gently caresses the freshly made mark. Wenlang pulls the back of his head making him meet his eyes. 

“Kiss me” was the sweetest demand his ears had ever heard.

It doesn't matter how many and what kind of demands Gao Tu makes, he is willing to fulfill every. single. one. of. them. It was just a kiss now right? Yes, but Wenlang is already preparing himself for more demands, he is craving for them. 

In Wenlang’s head, he had been convinced Gao Tu wouldn't forgive him for grabbing his thigh during dinner. But in his mind the way they had used his thighs earlier was repeating again and again after he got lost in his lips when he was talking. Adrenaline rushed in and before he even realized he had his hand on Gao Tu’s thigh, he did, however, try to push the limits and to his surprise Gao Tu didn’t reject him right away and was mostly accepting his touch trying to dissimulate his jolts, only when he got confident and brushed his pinky in the gap between his thigh and his groin is when Gao Tu reacted stopping him by catching his wrist pivating him from his skin and knowing the reward he he had requested earlier wouldn’t come later that night, but it did, didn’t it?  

Gao Tu was letting himself be swayed by the emotions, the feeling of his skin heating up every time and in every place Wenlang touched him, it didn’t matter if it was a subtle or a rough caress, everything burned up in the same way. His mouth was devoured one time after another in which Wenlang would take his time finding his sensitive spots. That man was willing to eat him whole, he needed to be careful or Wenlang would actually gobble him. He felt his big hands cupping his ass with the pants in half of the way.

“Wen…lang” he breathed out his name in between their kisses. 

Snap. That was the last thread of rationality holding them back, pheromones that were subtly filling the room suddenly bathed it whole

Chapter Text

The next day Gao Tu opened his eyes slowly, his eyelids felt heavy. He gave a look to what was in front of him, he saw the window with curtains rolled over it allowing a dim light coming in the room. It takes him a few seconds to recognize the curtain; he wasn’t at home, clearly.  He turns his head slowly to his right then down where he meets a chest; immediately images of the past night rushes in front his eyes, he covers his mouth with his hand feeling the embarrassment as a wave washing him over. He realizes his upper body is exposed, same as Wenlang’s and he is on top of him laying down covering both with the bedspread.

His thoughts are running wild on what had happened yesterday, especially because the man that’s underneath him had an astonishing amount of energy and barely let him go; he remembers seeing the sky clearing up when he was trying to recover and pleaded to Wenlang to please close the curtains. He feels Wenlang moving and then lets out a loud yawn, Gao Tu holds his breath and removes his hand from his mouth trying to stay still, natural. For a good time Wenlang doesn’t say anything or move, maybe he fell back asleep?

“Morning” he whispers, kissing his head, tightening his grab on his waist, Gao Tu didn’t even notice he was being holded by him. With his free hand Wenlang caresses Gao Tu’s cheek “Are you awake?”  Gao Tu nods and feels Wenlang’s hand on his jaw and makes him look at him “Hi” he greets with a soft look on his eyes and a faint smile on his lips.

“Good… morning” his voice barely comes out, Wenlang leans his head and kisses him shortly on his lips.

“Is your body okay?” Gao Tu feels his face warming up at the question, he averts his eyes.

“I think so” mumbles, he feels Wenlang’s thumb brushing over his cheekbone.

“Did you sleep well?” His voice is low and his eyes are stuck on Gao Tu’s lips since he kissed them. Wenlang looks at him with deep affection, engrossed in him. 

“Yes” And Gao Tu is lost in him as well, it was like his embarrassment was suddenly wiped off and feels like all he has left is in Wenlang’s eyes.

Wenlang leans in again to kiss him, not just a simple contact this time. A slow paced and tender kiss, Wenlang is taking his time kneading his lips with his own, occasionally gives him short pecks and goes back to kissing his lips, he tightens the grip on Gao Tu’s waist even more, he lowers his hand that was on his face to his neck and pulls it closer as he leaves his lips to his neck.

“Wen-” his protest dies in his mouth when he feels him nibbling his neck and lets out a breathed “lang”.

“Yes?” he asks over his skin. Gao Tu places his hands on Wenlang’s cheeks and pulls him apart from his neck to look him in the eyes, something lit on Wenlang’s eyes.

“What time is it?” Wenlang chuckles and reaches for his phone on the night stand, he has to double check, and looks at Gao Tu.

“Past twelve” he shows his phone to Gao Tu, indeed it marks 12:20. Gao Tu blinks “Are you hungry? We can get room service” he puts the phone back in the night stand and brushes back Gao Tu’s hair “Can I get some more?” he asks with a smug smile as he keeps looking at his lips.

“Greedy” he teases Wenlang smile grows and gets his face closer, brushing his nose, Gao Tu pecks him in the lips.

“More” he asks, putting his hand on the back of Gao Tu’s head to push him and get his lips again. 

Gao Tu’s hands fall on Wenlang's shoulders as he lets him kiss him. Wenlang bites his bottom lip softly pulling it, Gao Tu knows what that means, he had done it yesterday and parts his lips taking Wenlang’s tongue inside. This particular way Wenlang has to kiss him can make his brain slowly melt, he loves it, the dangerous and inciting feeling of getting eaten is addictive, can’t get enough, when he is precisely thinking of how is never enough he feels Wenlang hand on his lower back and how he uses one finger traveling to his hip where his fingers firmly presses his skin making him jolt. There is where Gao Tu realizes his hips actually feel sore, he breathes a moan in the kiss, Wenlang pulls apart and looks at him; fascinated.

“Im… sore” he admits, averting his eyes from Wenlang’s, he laughs “Don’t laugh” Wenlang shakes his head. 

“Sorry” using the hand it was previously in the back of his head he brushes his bottom lip whipping out the silk threads left, “Do you want to take a bath? I can help” he half teased before kissing Gao Tu’s naked shoulder and crooks his head back fast enough to see Gao Tu rolls his eyes “I’m serious, I promise” Gao Tu stares at him “Baobei don’t be like that, you make it look like I'm some sort of horndog” Gao Tu slightly tilts his head silently agreeing with him “Wow, you are mean” Gao Tu chuckles “Even after you were the one trying to eat me up first” Gao Tu purses his lips in a thin line feeling his face getting warm “Thats a nice red” he teases, Gao Tu smacks him softly in the head  with the edge of his extended hand “this is violence” he says laughing, hugging him closer “Does it hurt too much?” he asks  softly, tapping his hip. Gao Tu shakes his head.

“Manageable” Wenlang nods.

“Let me fill the bathtub” he says before tearing apart from Gao Tu.

The wolf  sits on the bed and Gao Tu has a chance to see him, his back has nail marks on his shoulderblades and on his shoulder there's a clear bite mark on it, his eyes widen, did he do all of that? He swallows, he doesn’t remember exactly doing them. Wenlang picks up the bathrobe from the floor and wears it, he is fully naked. After he sees Wenlang disappearing in the bathroom he looks under the cover finding his chest exposed, but was wearing his underwear, then again, he doesn’t remember putting them on, he didn’t have them in the first place… maybe it was Wenlang? Oh the embarrassment rushing in once again. 

Gao Tu tries remembering, but all he remembers is how Wenlang was desiring him, touching him, pushing him, licking him all over... well maybe trying to remember was a bad idea after all.

“Water is ready” he hears Wenlang coming out of the bathroom walking to the bed, he looks at him and his eyes once more widen. Wenlang had the bathrobe closed at the waist but had part of his chest exposed, Gao Tu saw marks on his chest; kiss marks to be more precise “oh? You saw them?” Wenlang says and opens up a bit more the bathrobe revealing more of his chest to him “they look great, don’t you think?” he says proudly, Gao Tu covers his face with his hands provoking a chuckle in Wenlang. The alpha gets closer to the bed and picks him up in a princess carry startling Gao Tu.

“What are you doing?” he asks almost inaudibly.

“Taking you to the bathtub” Wenlang sounds like he is almost singing; he sounds happy and amused only feeding Gao Tu’s embarrassment. Wenlang puts him down and tries pulling down his underwear, he is immediately stopped by Gao Tu’s hand “What's wrong?”

“What are you doing?” he mumbles.

“Helping you get undressed” Gao Tu shakes his head “It's not like I didn’t see it, come on. I even cleaned you up after you passed out” Gao Tu covers his eyes with one hand “Okay I will close my eyes, I can help you scrubbi-”

“Shen Wenlang, Get out!” Wenlang pouts and kisses him on the forehead before leaving. Seems it had been too much for Gao Tu.

Gao Tu cleans himself first before getting in the bathtub, the warm water definitely helped him to feel more relaxed. Wenlang had even added bath salts, he felt guilty, he had yelled at him out of embarrassment, but there had been too many critical hits for him to properly process. After a good amount of time he mustered courage up. 

“Wenlang” he calls after guilt fully gluped him up “I’m sorry” silence for a bit.

“Can I come in?” he asks from the door, not daring to go in.

“Please do” he sees Wenlang walking up to him then squats to meet his eyes “I’m sorry for yelling at you” he caresses his cheek “I.. was too embarrassed” Wenlang chuckles and faintly smiles.

“I know, it's okay” he touches his shoulder, reassuring him “How is the temperature?” he asks, feeling the water.

“Perfect, thank you” he catches Wenlang’s hand in the water and interlaces his fingers.

“Are you hungry? I can get us room service” Gao Tu nods and kisses his hand.

“Thank you, Wenlang” With Wenlang this close he can see the marks on his chest better, he was proudly showing him the marks before… he brushes one in his chest, Wenlang doesn’t comment on it and lets him feel them. 

Wenlang goes back to the room after having a small conversation about what he wanted to eat. Gao Tu enjoys the water for a few extra minutes, when he gets up his hips clearly protested threatening to give in, but manages to stand up properly, he dries up his body, wears the other bathrobe and dries his hair with the hairdryer. Once he is ready and about to leave the bathroom when he sees his reflection in the mirror, his chest -bellow his collarbone- is covered in marks, he opens the bathrobe and examines his body finding hickeys and bite marks all over, even inside of one of his thighs. That man was definitively a degenerate, he will have to wear a shirt in the beach and the pool for the rest of the trip… after the initial shock he brushes them; feeling them… he likes them; they are traces, evidence of Wenlang’s lust and desire for him, it’s fulfilling. 

When Gao Tu gets back to the room he notices the bed is freshly done with new bedsheets, he looks at Wenlang who was busy investing in his phone, Gao Tu swallows remembering the embarrassment he felt yesterday.

“Did you make the bed?” Wenlang looks at him and nods.

“I requested new bedsheets. Ah and the food” he sits on the bed and gets up “I will take a quick shower, they will probably be here when I'm done” he looks at Gao Tu’s chest shamelessly, seeing the marks he had put there the night before “They don’t look bad at all” he says poking a visible one, Gao Tu quickly closes the bathrobe and crosses his arms over his chest making Wenlang laugh “Ah, I love you” he pulls him by his waist and kisses his cheek before releasing him and going to the bathroom. 

Gao Tu looked at the bed, sighs and opened the curtains. The light hit him pretty strongly, he covered his eyes trying to not be dazzled by it. Once his eyes get used to the light he looks at the view, it's really beautiful; it's amazing how a place like this can exist, he walks back to the bed and lays down taking his phone seeing he has a few messages from Shaoyou, its mostly pictures of what he and Hua Yong had been doing during the day, he chuckles, it looks like a nice and long date… while they were there, in the room… well is not like he is complaining, they really had a good time and if Wenlang were to propose to him to go walking around he wouldn’t even talk to him. Regardless, a long date doesn’t sound bad at all. 

Gao Tu: They look amazing, having fun? 

Sheng Shaoyou: A-TU YOU ARE AWAKEEEEEEEEE.

Gao Tu raises an eyebrow, why does he know?

Sheng Shaoyou: That husband of yours told me to stop sending you messages.

                         That you were tired. 

                         [Sad tiger sticker]

Did he? Gao Tu scrolls up his chat with Shaoyou and yes, there's messages since 8 a.m. sending him pictures of his breakfast and then all the activities they did during the day… probably the constant buzzing annoyed Wenlang. 

Gao Tu: Sorry, I was really tired.

             [rabbit apologizing sticker]

Sheng Shaoyou: It’s fine.

                         Are we having dinner together? 

Gao Tu stares at the screen, not sure of what to say. He sees Wenlang coming out of the bathroom with a different bathrobe scrubbing his hair with a towel.

“Did you tell Shaoyou to stop sending messages?” Wenlang nods.

“I couldn’t silence your phone and I thought it would wake up anytime” Gao Tu looked at him with a really faint smile, he was worried… still there is part of that he didn’t like “Is he telling you that?” Gao Tu nods and shows him the pictures the tiger had sent him, selfies with and without Hua Yong, and pictures of the activity they were doing “They are so annoying” he mumbled. 

Wenlang also thought of having a date for themselves, but not that day, maybe later… okay, honestly? Yesterday when he was on his phone waiting for Gao Tu to get out of the shower he was looking for what to do that day. He had considered having a nice long date since he knew he had screwed it up at dinner and at best, Gao Tu would agree to cuddle with him… but that isn’t what happened, Gao Tu had seduced him and it was fucking amazing. The moment he straddled over him his mind went blank, when he was talking to him with those burning eyes he knew he wasn’t going to forget it that night, and he wasn’t wrong at all.

Gao Tu had bitten him in the shoulder the first time and kept sinking his nails in his back every time he was lost in pleasure,  there’s nothing more affirming and rewarding to him, well one thing, his voice calling him over and over, it was addictive. The smell of sage had filled his nostrils and aroused him even more, just remembering makes him crave for more, but he is aware of Gao Tu’s body, they shouldn’t push it so much… should they?

“Shaoyou was asking if we are joining them in dinner tonight” he frowns, he wants to say no, ultimately he sighs.

“Yes, do you think you can?” part of Gao Tu wanted him to say no, but he can’t bring himself to say it loudly. 

“Yes, it should be okay” he says and texts Shaoyou confirming they will be joining them for dinner. 

Wenlang laid down next to Gao Tu looking at him type and slowly moved until he placed his head on Gao Tu’s chest, when he felt the extra weight on his chest he lifted his phone and looked at him.

“Hi” Wenlang greets him casually making him chuckle.

“What are you doing there?” he pokes him in between his eyebrows

“Getting comfortable” gives him a smug smile and holds Gao Tu’s hand, Gao Tu looks at his phone and scrolls, he feels Wenlang playing with his holded hands.

“Do you want attention?" he asks without looking at him and still scrolling. 

“Wow, that sounds mean” he says turning his head to him, but Gao Tu isn’t looking at him “But yes, I do” Gao Tu smiles and leaves his phone in the night stand and caresses his cheek “do you like the view?” Gao Tu chuckles and turns his head to the side.

“Well, it seems pretty nice” he says without looking at him with his eyes on the window despite not being able to see much.

 “Hey, that’s rude” Gao Tu laughs and turns to look at him again “That’s better”.

“I didn’t know president Shen would be this needy” Wenlang pouts looking at him.

“Don’t call me like that when we are not in the office” he sits in the bed looking at Gao Tu who just seems to be having fun. He leans close to Gao Tu’s face “Why don’t you call me Lao Gong instead?” He kisses him shortly. Gao Tu looks flustered.

“What are you even saying?” He turns his head “Wenlang is fine” Wenlang’s smug smile wipes off, we will take it, for now.

“Baobei” Gao Tu turns his head back, looking at him. 

Wenlang captures his lips in a tender kiss. His intentions were inocent… but slowly they weren’t, their kiss got progressively intense, Gao Tu had slid his arms over Wenlang’s shoulders. Wenlang puts one of his hands near Gao Tu’s face to support his own weight and that action makes Gao Tu jolt, but doesn’t move apart. The wolf slides the back of his fingers on Gao Tu’s exposed chest reaching the edge of the bathrobe ready to push it apart when a knock on the door stops his hand and their kiss. 

“Room service” Wenlang curses in his head, he looks at Gao Tu, kisses him shortly in the lips and tears apart.

“I’ll get the door” he fixes his bathrobe going to the door, Gao Tu sits in the bed carefully and fixes his own bathrobe “Thanks” he sees Wenlang getting in the room pushing the cart and closes the door behind him “Well, lets eat”.

They eat while having a conversation of places it would be good to visit on their next outing, just the two of them, before the trip ends. They shouldn’t waste the chance of having a trip together, though this is their first in a long list of trips being together. They spent the rest of the time talking and cuddling in the bed, Gao Tu resting his back on Wenlang’s chest as he was showing him ideas and places; Wenlang was paying attention to everything single detail he was showing him, then and idea goes in his mind, he picks up his own phone and opens the camera app.

“Wenlang?” Gao Tu asks, but poses with him anyway. He sees him taking two pictures and locking his screen.

“Memento” he says before putting his own phone away and hugging him with both arms sinking his nose in Gao Tu’s neck which he kisses. 

Gao Tu just let himself feel Wenlang’s lips caressing his neck, soon one of Wenlang’s hands slid  inside the bathrobe touching Gao Tu’s chest slowly but firmly feeling it. Gao Tu touches the back of his head making Wenlang meet his face. Immediately after Gao Tu meets his lips, Wenlang’s fingers rests on the side of Gao Tu's neck while his thumb is under his chin carefully pushing his head backwards giving him a better access to Gao Tu's face, specifically his lips. 

“We shouldn't” Gao Tu mumbles when Wenlang is pecking his lips.

“Just a little bit” he says, he feels Gao Tu's  hands over his “Please? I won't hurt you”  he pleads, making his partner doubt… just a bit it should be fine, shouldn't?

“What… is it?” he asks, trying his best in not getting swayed in his eyes. 

“Just… touching” he brushes his finger tips on Gao Tu's chest, he hesitates.

“Just touching?” Wenlang nods, thinking about it… is not like a crazy request, is it? 

He gives in and that's a chance Wenlang didn't waste, he did keep his word on just touching driving Gao Tu to a certain limit, even when he pleaded with him to put it in; Wenlang refused. Gao Tu did sulk, but didn't last long, it is not like he wasn’t aware of the soreness of his own body. 

It felt like time flew because in what felt like a blink they were getting ready for dinner. Gao Tu took special time in verifying no mark was visible with his clothes, Wenlang didn’t even seem to care. Shaoyou was already bombarding Gao Tu with messages asking him if they are really, really, coming to which he replied they were. Before they reach the door Wenlang hugs him by the waist and pulls him closer Gao Tu immediately slides his arms on Wenlang shoulders making him smirk before kissing him.

“Wenla-” he tries to interrupt “Wen-” but Wenlang keeps giving him short kisses “Wenlang” he calls this time in a stern voice “We need to go” Wenlang nods and lets him go, but before he touches the door he feels a tug in his wrist.

“What's wrong?” he asks, turning to look at Gao Tu whose eyes were glued to the floor. It took him a few seconds to meet Wenlang's eyes. 

“Actually… there is something I….” he starts, Wenlang looks at him with attention trying to decipher what he is going to tell him “i missed the change to give you this before the trip” he places in Wenlang's hand a box, he forgets about everything and keeps his eyes in the box.

“... I do” mumbles before hugging him. Gao Tu is at a loss for words and pushes him from his shoulders looking at him confused.

“What?” Wenlang showed him the box he had just given him and shrugs. As if it was the most obvious thing in the world. Gao Tu sighs and opens it for him revealing a watch he had bought when he went out shopping with Hua Yong. Wenlang chuckles looking at the watch, it fits his taste…. Gao Tu really knew him “Did you really think I…”

“No” he says taking it out of the box and handing him the watch then extending his arm to him, Gao Tu takes the watch and helps him putting it on “I suddenly got the idea… that marrying you wouldn’t be bad at all” he looks at the watch in his wrist then back at Gao Tu whose face is getting redder and redder.

They leave the room and after they close the door Wenlang holds his hand and doesn’t let it go until they reach the restaurant. Outside is Shaoyou and Hua Yong waiting for them, Hua Yong is hugging Shaoyou’s arm resting his head on his shoulder. The tiger waves at Gao Tu and greets him.

“I was about to call you A-Tu” Wenlang rolls his eyes “What?” he inquiries darting a glare, Wenlang lifts casually their held hands showing casually his new watch. 

“Oh nothing” he smirks. Shaoyou holds Hua Yong’s hand and casually held them high.

“Matching” both of them were wearing matching watches, Wenlang narrowed his eyes.

“Annoying” he replies, looking at Gao Tu “We are getting matching ones later” Gao Tu just laughs, they are just acting like children. Hua Yong looks at Wenlang with a mocking expression “Shut up”

“Wow, I didn’t even say anything,” Hua Yong teases him.  

During dinner the couple kept teasing Wenlang, annoying him. Shaoyou would take breaks from teasing him just to chit chat with Gao Tu, but soon after he would join Hua Yong into teasing him. It was fun. Wenlang’s expressions are quite telling. After a while they stopped making fun of him and had a pleasant conversation. 

“Soo, tomorrow we could go to the beach. What do you think, A-Tu?” Gao Tu nods, he likes the idea, then he freezes; he remembers the marks on his body… probably would have to wear a shirt.

Everyone agrees to go to the beach the next day. They left the restaurant soon after dinner ended and the four of them had a night walk around the place. It's refreshing, and the weather feels nice… then suddenly Gao Tu feels a shiver down his back, he is feeling watched again, he tries looking back and around, but he doesn’t see anything or anyone. When he turned back to the group the three of them had walked away quite distance, Wenlang seemed to have a debate with Shaoyou. Gao Tu feels the shiver once again, he grabs the edge of his shirt with one hand, doesn’t turn back and walks following the group, first at a normal speed trying to not lure the predator in a chase and slowly increases his pace, he is getting close to the group, his mind is racing. What could be possibly hunting him? Ever since they arrived it's been like this and it doesn’t seem like the rest notice it… maybe Hua Yong? But he isn’t really sure, it felt like it… but can’t certainly tell he knows something. Then, bam! He feels crashing into someone, he stumbles back, but doesn’t fall down, it was sturdy, certainly, he looks up and meets someone, a man, fully clothed in black wearing a cap; his face is not visible… Gao Tu feels his blood go cold, the presence is strong and identical - if not the same- as whatever was watching him. 

“My… apologies, I wasn’t looking” he quickly apologies and tries moving away walking by the side of this person, holding his breath. Suddenly he feels a grab in his wrist. His stomach sank, this feels dangerous, this is bad. He turns his head, but the person is giving him his back and doesn’t meet his eyes.  He feels his heart ringing in his ears, this is dangerous, he needs to run. 

“Be careful” his voice was stern, warning him… it was a warning he knew he needed to take seriously. He realizes the group isn’t even within his sight “It might not be a next time” 

“I will. I’m truly sorry” the man releases his wrist and Gao Tu doesn’t waste a second and hurries to the group.

When he sees them Wenlang is already turning back, probably to go look for him. Gao Tu gets close and Wenlang hugs him, just when he feels his warmth he breathes again… stressful, that had been stressful. 

“Baobei, where did you go?” he asks concerned, he lifts his head and sees how distressed Gao Tu looks “What happened?” he asks with a serious voice. He doesn’t like this.

“I…” he breathes, taking a second to regularize his breath. Shaoyou gets closer, concerned “Someone has been watching me “ he pauses to swallow “and I think I met that person” Wenlang puts his hands on his shoulders.

“Since when?” his eyes are full of concern and anger, who dares to scare him? “Did he do something to you?” Gao Tu shakes his head.

“No, no. He didn’t” Gao Tu seems to be getting calmer, Wenlang’s presence puts him at ease.

“A-Tu, do you remember what he looks like?” Gao Tu shakes his head once more.

“I couldn’t see his face at all, but he is quite tall” he sighs, he feels Shaoyou’s hand on his back trying to support him. 

“I need a second” Shaoyou says and pulls out his phone ready to make a call. 

“Not necessary, Mr. Sheng” Hua Yong speaks for the first time, the three of them look at him. He is holding his phone “Got someone looking into it” he smiles “Don’t worry, Secretary Gao” he walks up to Gao Tu and looks at him with eyes that make Gao Tu feel nervous all over again, they don’t seem that sincere “No one will harm you” it did sound reassuring, but somehow he didn’t feel reassured at all.

“You, take care of him for a bit” Wenlang addresses Shaoyou and he nods “and you, we need to talk” this time he is looking at Hua Yong who just tilts his head and gets dragged away by Wenlang leaving the two friends alone. 

Once they are away from them Wenlang almost shoves him, he is staring at Hua Yong’s eyes, angry, its written all over his face.

“What” Hua Yong says is not affected by his reaction.

“Did you know?” Hua Yong tilts his head.

“About what?” Wenlang feels like is about to explode, but he breathes, gripping his fist. 

“Did you know that someone was on him?” Hua Yong shrugs. 

“I thought someone was trying to hit on him” Wenlang holds him by his shirt and gets his face closer.

“I know you can hear and see shit I can’t. Tell me the truth” he demands, Hua Yong slaps his hands and breaks free from him “Have you been deceiving him? Pretending to be his friend? I know you are fucked up. But don’t get him in your mess” he spits, pointing at him, almost losing all his composure and completely misses the fraction of Hua Yong’s expression changing.

“You better lower that tone, Wenlang”  he releases his pheromones, choking him “You don’t know anything” and Wenlang sees it, he is angry and… hurt? No, it must be a different expression “Beheave yourself or I won’t control myself” he disperses his pheromones allowing him to breathe back again “I will let you know at its time” he sighs and takes a second to try to calm “Lets go back”. 

Wenlang follows him, without taking his eyes out of his back, that bastard knew something. And also, he realizes he had let Gao Tu be in danger without knowing while being right by his side? What a shit partner, what an absolute joke of an alpha who can't even protect his precious person. He keeps bashing himself up as he walks back, in silence. His mind drifts in the reasons why Gao Tu? Why target him? Are they trying to get to him, by hurting someone he loves? There's rage burning inside him, what can he even do? 

When Gao Tu sees him he tugs his shirt, taking him off his thoughts.

“Are you okay, Wenlang?” he mumbles, Wenlang lifts his eyes from the floor and looks at him, ashamed of not having been aware of how he was being threatened under his own nose. 

“I'm sorry” he whispers “I didn’t know you…”  Gao Tu shakes his head.

“Is okay, Wenlang” Gao Tu hugs him and his hug comforts him, but also makes him feel even worse; he, the one that's going through the hard time, is comforting him. Wenlang hugs him back. 

“We can go back right now if you want us to” he says, Gao Tu shakes his head.

“It’s okay, I am fine” 

That night, the group fell in silence in their back to the rooms, Gao Tu waved at them and only Shaoyou replied to the gesture, Wenlang didn’t even turn his back to them and opened the room’s door.

Wenlang hugged Gao Tu until he fell asleep, he took longer in trying to fall asleep. He kept looking at plane tickets… to just go back, but didn’t go through with the payment, he is indecisive… what if whatever is chasing Gao Tu does it back there too? How can he make him feel safe again? After this? Is he even capable of it? Shit. 

The next morning is woken up by his phone. It's a message from Hua Yong.

Lunatic: Found the person.

             It’s on suite 103.

             It's safe. Bring secretary Gao. 

He stares at the screen, feeling how his anger towards Hua Yong reignites. Then he hears Gao Tu’s phone buzzing, he lazily gets up and checks his phone.

“Why is Hua Yong telling me to follow you?” he asks. Wenlang shuts his eyes, he just tells him to join him. Shit.

“Let's get ready,” he says.

The way to the suite feels eternal. Every step he gives in is more of him bashing himself for not protecting his partner, Gao Tu walks on his side holding his hand, but doesn’t talk, he is respecting Wenlang’s silence. Once they are in front of the door, Wenlang uses the code Hua Yong had sent him. He signals Gao Tu to be behind him, just in case; to be safe. 

Wenlang walks in firmly but cautiously, they make it to the living room where a big sofa is in the middle of the room. 

“I didn’t think we would have to meet like this. But I guess is fine” he turns his head to the side Wenlang takes time to process the man's voice and when he sees him his mind goes blank “Its been awhile, baby wolf” 

Gao Tu looks at the scene and takes time to process it; Ying Yi, Wenlang’s omega father who was declared dead was standing in front of them. He looks exactly like he did in the picture, just more, tired? He sees Wenlang, shocked, blinking a few times as if he was still dreaming and couldn’t wake up, he can’t believe it.

“Pa…papa?” Wenlang’s eyes fill with tears “Papa?” he asks and sees his father opening his arms “Papa” he throws himself into hugging him, and for an instant, Wenlang turns back into a child crying in his father's embrace.

It’s been years of yearning to see him again, at least in his dreams, he prayed multiple times for him to visit him in his dream and hug him, he missed him. He missed him so much yet he couldn’t bring himself to openly admit it. From time to time he would think about him again, he would remember his childhood when he was with him, the love and warmth he had for him every time and regret not spending more time with him. 

“You grew up into a cry baby” Ying Yi’s voice sounds shattered as he says these words with endearment, he caresses the back of Wenlang’s head.

Gao Tu is stunned, observing them when a sudden wave of relief washes him over, then happiness, joy and he finds himself tearing up for Wenlang; his papa was right there alive, he is really there with them. Wenlang is wailing, all the hurt and sadness he had cast aside since his passing was running him over, he didn’t allow himself to grief him, until Gao Tu gave him the wolf plush, that was the first time since his passing he allowed himself to feel the actual pain his loss had caused him. Ying Yi stayed there embracing him, caressing him trying to comfort him.

Once Wenlang had almost dried his eyes up he had his head resting on his papa’s shoulder sitting beside him in the sofa, Gao Tu had moved in the room getting them water after Ying Yi allowed him to. 

“Where were you?” he asks, looking at his hand, not daring to take it.

“Here” he admits, easily “In this country”

“Did you miss me?” he asks with his voice broken, Ying Yi takes a bit to reply.

“I did. A lot” he admits “A-Yong kept me updated” Wenlang quickly incorporates and looks at him, unable to believe his words.

“That bastard knew?” he asks Ying Yi, purses his lips and nods “That lunatic! When I see him again I will strangle him” 

“He was just keeping his word, Wenlang” Wenlang crooks his head, what does that mean? Was that what Hua Yong was referring to yesterday?

“Does… anyone else know?” he asks “does the old man know?” and suddenly he gets agitated “was I the only fool who didn’t know?” his father pats his hand a few times.

“No, he doesn’t know. No one should know” Wenlang looks at him, narrowing his eyes.

“Shen Yu doesn’t know?” Ying Yi stiffens at the name then shakes his head.

“No, he doesn’t. And he shouldn’t” 

“Why?... He is not my dad after all is he? Please tell me I'm not his kid” Ying Yi stares at him for a while then sighs.

“I was hoping Hua Yong was joking when he asked me if you had any issues with your brain growing up” he sighs again “He IS your dad, baby wolf. Why? Does he still throw his hands at you?”  Wenlang flinches and averts his eyes “Are you kiddi- you are almost 30 and he still does it?” Ying Yi’s hand trembles, feeling the urge to place it on certain someone's face.

“I barely see him anyways. He is living in Country P” Ying Yi flinches and covers his fist with the free one. 

“Uhm, here. Please have some” Gao Tu" appear with a tray with two glasses of water and leaves in the center table. Ying Yi’s eyes are glued to him; analyzing him, from head to toe, every move he does. Wenlang smiles and gets to Gao Tu’s side, wrapping one of his arms behind his back.

“Pa, this is my partner; Gao Tu” his father looks at him briefly and his eyes goes back to the young man besides his son. 

“I see” he says. Wenlang feels a certain type of joy… what he had dreamt about introducing them… wasn’t a dream anymore, it was happening. But something feels off. 

“May I ask sir” Gao Tu says looking at Ying Yi with a really stern look in his eyes, challenging if you must. Ying Yi looks at him and nods, gesturing to him to continue “Why were you watching me?” Ying Yi smiles faintly. Wenlang exchanges looks between the two men, going back and forth. Wenlang blinks. It must be a mistake.

“Baobei, what are you saying Pa wouldn’t do something li-” he was interrupted by Ying Yi’s voice.

“So you did notice”  Gao Tu with a firm expression in his face nods “What are you, kid?” Wenlang is baffled. 

“Omega” he says firmly, not breaking contact with him not even once. Ying Yi seems slightly surprised, his eyebrows lifted, then nods.

“Pa?” Wenlang asks, he is pretty much stunned from the way his two favourite people are interacting; it's unlikely for them to be like this… is as… if they were measuring the other; challenging each other.

“I believe you are aware Wenlang’s character isn’t the easiest to deal with” Gao Tu nods, then smiles, a business smile.

“Please don’t worry. President Shen and I have known each other for more than ten years. I'm well aware” Wenlang takes a moment to look at them again trying to understand the hostile mood in the room. It's like a cheetah intimidating a ferocious rabbit.

“Uhm… are you two okay?” Wenlang breaks the silence and both of them look at him “Pa… was really you the one… who was observing him?” Ying Yi has a blank expression on his face and nods one time, then his face flushes “Why?” 

“When A-Yong told me you had a partner I was curious” he admits “and then he said he was suddenly bringing you here with a partner… I wanted to witness it with my own eyes”

“But why…”

“My eyes are like this” he says narrowing his eyes in what looks like a glare, the feeling of that glare is enough to send shivers down Gao Tu’s spine, Ying Yi sighs “Is not like Im doing it on purpose, my eyes are like this” he explains.

“I'm sorry sir, but just to be sure… you are not opposed to me for being at Wenlang’s side?” Ying Yi blinks.

“Why would I? Knowing that my baby wolf found someone who loves him is enough for me. Besides, it is pretty clear to me that you do love my son” he mentions reclining on the sofa “Just by seeing you taking care of him was enough proof for me to know it. Wenlang’s face changes completely when he is with you” Wenlang feels his ears burning, it was embarrassing to know how obvious he is.

“Then… Why the threat?” Gao Tu asks, still a bit shaken up by yesterday’s encounter. Ying Yi looks at him confused.

“What threat?” Gao Tu blinks confused and looks at him.

“When we bumped into the road” he sees Ying Yi’s eyes widen.

“That wasn’t me. I never got close” a silence falls in the room. 

So… that meant that there was another person watching him? And not even the person with a military background was able to tell about it? What kind of person is… looking at him? Or what if it was just an accidental bump with a stranger? But his words… despite sounding completely normal… there was something beneath them, something that shaked Gao Tu up. Ying Yi takes his phone and takes a bit of time on it, typing.

“I don’t know who that was and I never saw anyone on you the when you were out either” Ying Yi mumbles then falls silent, Wenlang is looking at Gao Tu; concerned for him, he notices him slightly trembling.

It couldn't be Gao Ming right? He is deep neck into debt, there is no way he could afford coming here… did he find out he is an omega?  Is Gao Qing safe? Shaoyou promised to have Pinming watching for her while they were away… if it wasn’t Gao Ming, then who was it? And why? He feels Wenlang embracing him.

“I promise I’m going to find whoever that is” before Gao Tu could answer the door sounds like its opening.

Quickly Wenlang gets Gao Tu behind him facing in the direction of the door. Ying Yi is looking the same way attentively. A tall figure enters the room and before Wenlang can even move Ying Yi had launched himself at that person punching them in the face throwing it in the floor, the movement had been smooth, his papa had jumped basically from the sofa to the door. Ying Yi grabs the intruder from the neck of the shirt and throws him on the floor of the room, closing the door behind him.

“Identify yourself” he sees the intruder putting a hand in where he had received the punch, he can’t see his eyes, he is wearing a black cap “I wasn’t clear enough?” Ying Yi stomps the wrist of the man on the floor who groans "Identify yourself” 

“Ying Yi” that voice makes him flinch, he slaps the cap off his head revealing his face to them “I told you, didn’t I?” 

“Shen Yu” and just like that Wenlang’s fathers are reunited in a room.

No one was able to mutter a single word, it felt like time stopped. Just the sound of the sea waves filled the room. As soon as Wenlang came back to his senses he pulled his papa away from Shen Yu and stood between them glaring at his alpha father on the floor with disgust in his eyes.

“The fuck are you doing here?” his father chuckles.

“You useless child”  he incorporates himself standing from the floor not breaking contact with Wenlang’s eyes “What do you think you can do?” he grabs Wenlang’s wrist “You are no one to threaten me” he makes pressure on his wrist threatening to snap he only lets it go when another flying punch lands in his face, making him backtrack releasing his wrist.

“Don’t touch my pup” Ying Yi grabs him by his shirt and punches him one more time “Didn’t you say you were going to take care of him? Why do you keep putting your hands on him?” Shen Yu laughs.

“I never promised anything” Ying Yi growls and punches him again “That kid can’t do anything good” 

“You-” He glances at his son who is being watched by Gao Tu, then looks back at Shen Yu “What do you want?” Shen Yu smirks at him.

“Didn’t I tell you? Unless you die, don’t think on leaving me” he releases himself from his grab “Though you did a good job playing dead” he feels his own jaw, those punches were good and landed successfully each time.  Ying Yi stares at him, with anger in his eyes.

“Why are you here?” 

“Someone that works for me took a vacation here and reported seeing someone really similar to you” he chuckles “of course I didn’t believe it right away, why would it?” He pulls out his phone and unlocks the screen, as wallpaper there's a picture of Ying Yi watching the sea “Solid enough to make me come and see it with my own eyes” for the first time he touches Ying Yi’s cheek, feeling his warmth “so you are alive after all” he breathes out, Ying Yi slaps his hand away.

“I don’t have anything to do with you” Shen Yu grabs him from the shoulders.

“You do. You can’t just leave me” he shakes him “I almost lost my mind when you disappeared” he gets his face closer to Ying Yi’s “I almost went crazy without you” he rubs his nose in his cheek, Ying Yi pushes him away.

“You have never been good in the head to begin with. That's not my problem” Shen Yu tugs one of his fingers “Don’t touch me” he pulls his hand away from him “Go fuck your countless mistress. Leave me alone”

“Ying Yi”  he mumbles “Come back to me, lets go home” Ying Yi snaps and grabs him from the collar one more time.

“I would rather actually die than that” the anger in his eyes is clear Shen Yu hears it, but doesn’t take it “You better leave this country before I kick you out”.

Gao Tu realizes that is the man he bumped with that night; it was Shen Yu, he couldn’t recognize his voice at first, he was too frightened. He looks back at Wenlang who has his eyes glued to his fathers clutching his fists.