Archive of Our Own

Since this relationship began… Ollie had been finding that she was more and more annoyed by stereotypes. The traditional ways that many people in their society were expected to act, on average. Based upon the fundamental dynamics that had existed since near the dawn of all life. A unifier for immortals, mortals, mythics, hybrids, and far more, no matter their differences.

That being, of course, the dynamic of Alphas and Omegas. Their “typical” dynamics.

It was not that she hated these dynamics and traditions. She actually found them to be cute to witness, and had been a part of such relationships in the past. These ideas of an average did not come from nowhere, and were still a part of society for a reason. It was because for many, practicing these things and having certain instincts just... worked for them. One might even call it a good support, or even a backbone, to many relationships.

It was how several people lived their lives if they were alphas and omegas. That being the former was strong, assertive, and even aggressive when needed. The latter, meanwhile, was more submissive and openly affectionate... but still could push their alpha’s buttons a bit. Just in the right way to have a good time later via pheromones and suggestive comments.

These roles, and the various behaviors that came with them, appeared to work great for most. And as she walked down the street, pulling her mate by the hand, she could see signs of it with those who passed by. Couples out for Valentine’s Day clung close to one another, their pheromones potent as omegas nuzzled their alphas. The latter made sure to have strong arms wrapped around them, too, hands ghosting near intimate areas of their waists and the like.

She was happy for them... But these days, there were new questions on her mind at times, caused by little glimpses she caught. When she would see an alpha appear a little uncertain for any reason when interacting with their lover. Or when an omega seemed a tad annoyed by the tight grips they were in. Yet in either case, when they carried on like nothing was wrong...

...The zombie knew she was just being a little paranoid. At least, she hoped that she was. Because the alternative was... not something she liked to think about. Yet she could not help it, given everything she had been through these last several months. What she had learned about the most precious person in her life.

A question of... if any of those people felt forced to fit into their traditional roles. Thought that they had no choice due to society. That if they could not act like the average, or even go above and beyond it... that something was wrong with them.

She hated these questions - this assumption of the worst. But... how could she not ask them, given what had happened to the woman she loved? How she had been broken down, and was only now picking up the pieces and realizing there was nothing wrong with her? That she was accepted by their friends... and by her.

Not that she would ever blame her for feeling self-conscious on today of all days. It was why she was not even surprised when her mate stepped closer... and she saw blond hair in her peripheral vision as her alpha rested her head on her shoulder. Instead of possessively snuggling against her, though, like one might expect... she whined against the redhead, her body trembling slightly.

The undead-girl did not even hesitate to bring a hand up and run it through her girlfriend’s hair - currently free of her usual deerstalker. She made sure to produce some comforting pheromones, speaking softly. “I know, Ame. I know. We’re almost there.”

She felt Ame swallow against her. The human was giving a full hug from behind now, her voice strained... and filling with shame. “I’m... I’m sorry. I-”

“You have nothing to apologize for,” Ollie stated immediately. She was tempted to stop in place to turn and hug her, but knew it would be best for them to reach their destination first, so she tried to keep a steady pace. “I know how sensitive your smell is. It’s fine that you’re feeling overwhelmed right now.”

The detective was quiet for a moment... But while she tried to hold it back, she ended up whining and pressing closer, talking in a whimper. “It’s... There are too many scents. T-they’re all so potent, too! I-I can’t... T-they just...”

The zombie sighed, continuing to scratch her head. It was like a sick joke from the universe meant to torture her lover. She had always been able to pick up on pheromones quite well, which in turn riled up her instincts. It was natural for alphas to get horny when an omega let out their most potent, lustful scents, but it could be especially bad for the blond.

That problem became most apparent on a day like Valentine’s Day. This time of year, alphas and omegas liked to let their pheromones cloud the air. It was a sort of feedback loop, almost, that had everyone catching the residual lust of those they passed while they did the same. It was a welcome feeling for most. Some might even say the time-traveler’s sensitive nose was a blessing in that regard. It should have made today fantastic for her as an alpha!

...But that was very much not the case. Because unlike most alphas - the “average” alpha - she was not a very lustful person. Even during ruts, she was not going wild trying to get herself off and relieve pressure. Instead, she was... more restrained. And when it was a bad one... she sometimes seemed to be in pain from it. Some of it was due to... unfortunate experiences she had, but mostly, her mind just was not on sex, which the patchwork woman was perfectly okay with! She greatly enjoyed how soft she was with her.

However, that meant that today, when love was quite literally in the air... it was tough on her. So, the undead-girl was doing her best to drown out the lustful pheromones around them. She made sure her girlfriend was close enough to really take in the smell of grass after a gentle rain she loved so much. To pretend for a moment that they were not on a city street with couples teasing one another to get into the mood for later tonight.

Ollie wished them all the best of luck with that. She, however, knew that her night later was not likely to be quite so passionate... and she did not care. Whatever they ended up doing, whether it was cuddling or even some light intimacy, if her lover wanted to, she just wanted her to be comfortable. To be happy.

To just for once have a good time with a mate on this holiday...

There seemed to be hope for that as she felt the blond relax slowly against her. The shaking gradually stopped, making the redhead smile as she turned her head enough to look at her face. “Feeling better?”

Ame nodded shyly, her smile small but grateful as her blue eyes gained a small sparkle. “Yeah. Thank you for... indulging me.” She sent out a wave of pheromones to emphasize her sincerity, a soft scent of sunflowers washing over the omega.

The zombie eyed her carefully, slowing down just a touch. “Indulge in a good way... or because you think you’re doing something wrong?”

The detective paused, before looking down and pursing her lips. “I... want it to be the first one. I do. But...” She glanced around nervously, voice getting smaller. “Should... I be leading us to the bar? I’ve kind of been trailing behind, and-”

“Do you want to lead us, or stay where you are and enjoy my scent?” the undead-girl asked.

The time-traveler’s eyes widened, looking as if she were put on the spot. “I... Um...”

She stumbled a bit more over her words, slowly looking around... then wilting slightly. Quickly following her gaze, Ollie immediately saw why. Another couple was passing by - two brown-haired women, with the one who was clearly the alpha being a whole head taller than the other. Her arm was wrapped tightly around her mate, who was melted against her side and whose purr was slightly audible above the noise of the city.

But the alpha... She had noticed them and had an amused expression. Not in a fun way of seeing a cute couple, but one that oozed smugness and superiority. Her eyes were particularly locked on the blond, looking like she wanted to laugh in her face. She must have had a keen eye to tell who was the alpha and omega between them... and she clearly wanted to mock her lover for being so submissive.

The judgementalness made something tighten in the redhead’s chest... which quickly became a need to protect. To defend the honor of her mate. Shield the alpha who had claimed her from potential rivals of love and alphas looking to bully her girlfriend. And this bitch definitely qualified for the latter.

Before she even realized it, she had turned her body to shield Ame. It made walking a bit awkward... but it let her glare more easily at this whore. She bared her teeth, and a growl began to emanate from her chest. Her pheromones also flared out, becoming sharper as a show of challenge and defiance. Just daring her to say or do any more than she already had.

The alpha was taken aback, clearly not having expected such a strong reaction from her look. Once she shook it off, though, she averted her eyes and quickly led her omega past them, who remained too blissed out to realize what had happened. Soon, they merged with the crowd behind and disappeared among the bodies.

The zombie released a breath, her pheromones “softening” as her emotions cooled. She noticed a few people around them giving looks at what had just transpired, but they were quick to move on. Most of them were not even giving them that much attention. Some would glance over, and might get a funny expression at their positions, but they ultimately ignored them. They did not care about their less-traditional positions enough to gawk.

...But her girlfriend had noticed one person out of dozens to hundreds that was more bitchy than that. She always seemed able to notice those people when they were out... And that was sometimes all she needed to backslide and start giving in to those awful ideas she was taught growing up.

Well, she was not about to let that happen. She glanced at her lover, who was looking down with a grimace, her eyes looking ready to dim further. Before that could happen, though, she brought her hand back up and scratched the top of her head again, speaking firmly. “Don’t worry about that bitch. Don’t pay attention to any looks being sent to you, alright? They’re pricks who shouldn’t be listened to, and you know it.”

The detective jumped a little, seeming surprised by how harshly she was describing those around them. Her expression soon became stricken again, though, as she pulled away from her slightly. “I... But I should-”

“Ame,” the undead-girl interjected, voice warmer now. She stopped them in the middle of the sidewalk, ignoring the annoyed glances passers-by gave them as she turned around fully toward her alpha. She grabbed her face, forcing them to make eye contact. “What do I always tell you? What does everyone else tell you?”

“...That there’s no such thing as a good alpha,” the time-traveler answered quietly. Her eyes moistened a little, but she swallowed and pushed on. “That... I don’t have to worry about acting a certain way around you or any of our friends.”

Ollie smiled, sending a fresh wave of soothing pheromones. “Good. So, let me ask again... Do you want to lead us to the bar, or do you want to just keep breathing in my scent to drown out our surroundings?”

Ame was quiet for a long few moments, glancing down. The patchwork woman let her take her time, not doing anything to rush her. This was ultimately her decision to make. If she could not handle the gazes of those around them, then she would still comfort her by being the swooning omega in her arms. She did hope, though, that she would not give in to the pressure she felt on this day. Not this time.

...And, much to her joy, she did not. For the blond, after some pondering, let out a sigh... then met her eyes, her expression timid but her voice still having a resolve to it. “I’d... I’d like to keep nuzzling your shoulder. You know the way there better than I do, anyway.”

The zombie beamed, letting go of her face. “Okay, then! It won’t be much longer until we get there, I promise!” And once there, they would be joined by familiar faces. Ones who could help deal with anyone else who wanted to judge her girlfriend for not being a hardcore alpha.

But for now... the detective did not appear to care about that. Most of the doubts written on her face seemed to vanish as soon as the redhead turned back around and she could put her head back on her shoulder. She took a deep breath of her pheromones, almost slumping against her entirely as they relaxed her further. She even shifted close enough that she could feel her breath on her neck, letting her take in the scent more easily.

The undead-girl shivered before giggling at the sensation. She was tempted to turn the pheromones up as they started walking again, arms loosely wrapped around her stomach, which she rested a hand on. She knew the other would enjoy that immensely. Her love of her scent bordered on an addiction, breathing it deeply even when she wore patches on her neck.

However, she held back for now. She did not want to muddle her mind too much before they got to the bar where several of their friends were. It was one many of them frequented quite often, and was usually especially fun on holidays. Over time, it had become an official hangout spot for them, and a good way to interact with the locals more while having fun drinks and dancing.

Plus... this place generously provided small rooms in case any alphas or omegas got too heated from the alcohol and pheromones. Which, once again, were often taken advantage of during holidays. They were well cleaned, too, between uses with great ventilation to deal with lingering scents. And for their more... high libido friends, this made the place even better for those moments they needed to “sneak away.”

It was not the universal choice for all of them, though. For instance... the time-traveler, who was not much of a drinker, and as stated, was not preoccupied with sex. If anything, she often felt uncomfortable when dragged there, as if she were out of place. What made it bearable, by her own admission, was being able to talk to her friends while they all had fun. Yet even last year, when she had been dating Kiara, she could never quite get into the atmosphere.

But this year... she wanted to see if that would change. Ollie smiled at the memory of yesterday, when the two of them had been cuddling in the nest Ame had made for them. With the heat turned high and their pheromones thick, it had felt like heaven. She had thought then that they would be in a similar position today, with perhaps less clothing for more skin contact. Maybe even nothing at all. (Though, again - no expectation of intercourse.)

She had been surprised, therefore, when the blond had shyly asked if they could go to the bar with everyone else. The invitation was always open, so they would not be unwelcome. But... given what she had heard about last year, the redhead had not expected this from her. Yet when she asked... her lover had muttered in the softest, cutest voice while nuzzling against her chest: “I just... thought it might be fun now that... I’m with you.”

And, well... she was not going to deny her after a display like that, was she?

So they were making their way there... even though the pheromones of couples were proving an issue. The zombie huffed as they kept moving, wishing she had called that Uber after all. But the place they had lunch was only a couple of blocks away from the bar, so she had thought they would be fine. Her girlfriend had not protested, either. It had led to their current predicament, however.

Still, it would only be a few more minutes of walking. After that, the human would be able to detox from this walk, and the rest of the afternoon could proceed as normal. And besides, while the circumstance could have been better... she loved the way the detective was breathing in her scent. It was making her heart giddy and fluffy every time she heard her take a deep breath. And while the other tried to hide it... she felt the faint rumble of a purr in her chest. A noise that was pretty much exclusively drawn out by her.

So... yeah. Despite the small hiccup, she had a good feeling about today. That this might help her mate open up a little more and not be so embarrassed by how she acted. Not that it would fix everything all at once, but... it would be another step forward.

She was drawn from these thoughts as her alpha spoke up softly. “You... didn’t have to do that, you know.”

The undead-girl blinked, glancing at her with confusion. “Huh? Do what?”

“Growl at that woman,” the time-traveler said. Her expression was no longer tight from all the pheromones, but her eyes showed a bit of worry as they stared at her. “She didn’t do anything wrong. Finding me... ‘funny’ isn’t a crime.”

Ollie frowned, her gaze hardening as that earlier protectiveness flared a little. “She made you feel bad. No one makes you feel that way on my watch. Not for you being yourself. That bitch earned it for not minding her own business.”

“I mean... she didn’t say anything to-” Ame began.

“Don’t defend her!” the zombie demanded, her pheromones flaring sharply. She quickly realized what she did, though, when her lover tensed, eyes wide and slightly dilated. Flinching a little, she calmed her emotions, and by extension her pheromones, down as she gripped the other’s arm. “Sorry. I just... can’t stand the idea of anyone getting away with that with you.”

The detective shook her head. “N-no, no! You’re okay! You just caught me off guard, is all.” She looked her over from her position. A familiar, curious spark entered her eyes - the kind she got when trying to put the pieces together of a tough case. “I... Actually, now that I think about it, I don’t think I’ve ever heard an omega growl like that. Maybe a few rumbles here and there, but something like you did...”

The undead-girl raised an eyebrow. “Really? I mean, it’s not terribly common for us to do, but if we love and care for our mate enough, it can happen. Surely you’ve heard it with, like... Liz and Mococo? That twin is ready to throw down to prove her love, I swear!”

“I guess I’ve never been around for the right circumstances to hear that, then,” the time-traveler replied... Then, looking down, she gave a subdued chuckle. “I certainly never had an omega willing to... do that for me. Not even Kiara, it seems...”

That made Ollie’s expression fall, her heart being squeezed in her chest. “Ame...”

Said woman’s eyes widened, seemingly realizing what she had just said. She pulled back enough to show her a wide smile, though it was too strained to be reassuring. “N-not that I mean that in a bad way for Kiara! I know I-” She flinched, hastily correcting herself. “I know... we both made mistakes, so I get why she didn’t feel close enough to do that. She’s also pretty easy going about love, so-”

“Ame,” the zombie interjected, frowning sadly at her. “That... wasn’t the part I was focused on. Though, you shouldn’t judge yourself for that, regardless. It’s a special situation when an omega is willing to do that.” She sighed, looking away as she blushed. She debated sharing the rest of what that meant. She was not ashamed by it at all, but it was still a hard thing to say out loud to a mate directly.

However... Ame was always striving to be open with her. To not hide her traits as an alpha, both traditional and not, when it was just the two of them. She deserved that same openness and honesty in return. To know that... this relationship was just as special to her as it was the other.

Thus, taking a deep breath, she continued. “It’s a show of deep connection. The kind that not all mates ever have in their lives, even after years. It’s almost like a sign that... you’ve found ‘the one.’ The mate that... you want to be with forever.” Her blush intensified, yet she pressed on. “It’s just instincts, obviously - not some deep sense of the future. But... it shows how much an omega likes their mate. Alphas usually, but it can happen with omega and beta partners, too.”

The detective was quiet for a while, taking that in. When she spoke up, though, her voice was starting to get choked with emotion. “And... have you ever felt those instincts with anyone else?”

“...Never,” the undead-girl admitted softly. The city around them seemed to fade as they kept walking, her focus solely on her mate... And how the alpha’s pheromones had become more airy in their scent. A sign of how deeply touched the confession was making her feel.

Yet even so... the time-traveler seemed unwilling to accept it immediately, even as her arms tightened around her. She seemed to have to force her words out as she pressed her. “N-not... with Reine? O-or what about Moona? You two had such a good relationship! Anya is always saying how perfect-”

“If it was ‘perfect,’ I’d still be with her, now wouldn’t I?” Ollie interjected gently but firmly, not wanting any new doubts to form. “I won’t deny those two years were a happy time for me, but even then... I think we both knew it wouldn’t last after the first few months. We just didn’t know how to admit that we felt better as friends.” She tilted her head... and let it rest on her girlfriend’s, sighing contently. “...But I don’t get that sense from you. I’ve... never felt this close with anyone.”

“...Even with how much softer I am than most alphas?” Ame asked. It did not sound as self-deprecatory as other times when she asked similar questions, but there was a sense that she wanted that verbal confirmation.

One that the zombie gave immediately, chuckling warmly. “I think that might be a big part of why I’ve gotten so attached, honestly. Besides you just being the best girlfriend out there, regardless of any alpha-omega instincts!~”

The detective blushed heavily at this, but still went back to clinging to her and inhaling her pheromones. It helped the protective instincts in the redhead’s chest, knowing her mate was calming down... Yet they did not go away, seeing the small tears that escaped from her lover’s eyes regardless. It encouraged her to start purring - a common thing from omegas, but in this case, they were especially rich as she tried to soothe her.

She knew all too well why she was crying, and it twisted a tight knot in her chest. It made her want to growl again, knowing how her lover was... mistreated. Abused, more like. How she was practically told growing up that there was something wrong with how she acted. That, as an alpha, she should have been more domineering. That she had to act tough far more often and be fine getting riled up by a prospecting omega.

These things and more had left their mark on her. It was a leading factor in how she had acted during her relationship with Kiara, putting up with many antics she was actually uncomfortable with. All because she thought it would make her a “good alpha” if she forced herself to enjoy them... only for it all to come crashing down on one bad night.

Everyone learned what she had been through after that... And the undead-girl swore that if she ever met any of those bullies and smug pricks from her lover’s childhood, she would tear them apart. Pretty much all of their friends were of the same stance. To think that there had been something so horrible behind her cute, awkward demeanor... Why she sometimes even looked at her like she expected her to be annoyed at her behavior.

But she was not. While she had not expected a relationship when she tried to console the blond after her breakup with the phoenix, it was one of the best things that had ever happened to her. She loved the gentle nature of her girlfriend, combined with her alluring alpha scent. Hell, she was not sure the second was even necessary - more a bonus! Just the way she was always sweet on her, enraptured by her high energy. And she herself loved that curious nature of her mate and her forward thinking.

They fit together better than anyone could have predicted... and she would not let it go to waste. She gripped the time-traveler’s arm tighter, taking a deep breath of that sunflower scent. It was enough to almost make her feel drunk for a moment, but the hug kept her steady. It made her purr louder... and for a fleeting moment, she heard her do the same out loud. This, despite how rare it was for an alpha to allow purrs to be heard in public.

It made her smile warmly, barely even caring about their destination anymore. All that mattered was this peaceful moment between them. Her lover’s recovery from the abuse she endured was slow, but she knew one day, she would be able to embrace who she was. And she would be with her every step of the way... helping protect her from those who would try to tear her back down once more.

Some might laugh at an omega being the protective one in the relationship, she considered... but it was a role she gladly stepped into when needed. Whatever it took to help her alpha gain confidence in herself...

Her musings were interrupted by Ame speaking up. “Hey, isn’t that the bar over there?”

Blinking once, Ollie focused back on their surroundings. She looked ahead down the sidewalk, and... sure enough, there was the sign. It had a sensuality to it with its blue and purple coloring, with the symbols for alpha and omega above the name: “The Pheromone Drop.” It was still too bright out to be lit up, but she had always sworn it made the place seem like a strip club to anyone passing by. But it was just a bar for drinking and dancing... that also allowed sex on the premises, though it was not the only place like that.

It was a welcome sight, especially for her girlfriend, whose relief was almost palpable. Smiling widely, the redhead carefully broke from the hug she was receiving and adjusted her grip on the other’s arm. “Indeed it is! Come on! I want to get our first dance of the afternoon in!”

She started to drag the detective along, moving into a sprint, much to the annoyance of the people around them. Her alpha did not appear to mind in the slightest, though, as she easily matched her pace. (All that cardio on her cases was really paying off.)  She even laughed, despite being deprived of her direct scent. The doubts from just moments before appeared gone for now, a bright smile crossing her lips... Not caring how people looked at her.

The zombie took this as another good sign for the time they were about to have. She was not expecting a wild evening, given how the blond usually was. But if they could keep up the good mood, it would still be an exciting one! At long last, the other might have a good time on the holiday of love!

And if anyone wanted to ruin that... they would have to go through her.

-------

The bar admittedly might be better described as a club, if Ollie were honest. The title had stuck, though, from its more humble beginnings. It used to be in another part of town with a much smaller space, but with many of the same services. Yet the place soon grew so popular that it kept getting crammed every day. The owner really knew how to cater to his clients, which was made more impressive by him being a beta!

Soon enough, he had moved to this current location to better accommodate the place’s popularity. And she had to say, it did not disappoint! Two floors with plenty of classic wooden or more modern plastic black ones for people to sit at? A huge area of the first floor open for dancing, lit by blue and purple lights to set the mood? A stage just behind it for karaoke nights, or for local bands to give their best performances possible?

Well, she could not speak for everyone else, but it was definitely the best bar she had ever been to! It somehow managed to combine the aesthetic of a classy bar and a 1980s party seamlessly without clashing. Whether you wanted to sit and drink for a while, or party hard on the dance floor, everyone had a place here... Including those of more passion who disappeared for a while down a hallway near the bar to “relieve” themselves.

There was not much of that right now, though. While love was quite literally in the air with lots of pheromones floating around - muted by the ventilation - the afternoon was still fairly young. The music playing was energetic, but not in a rave kind of way. And while some people were having fun dancing, many were simply mingling and talking at tables or at the bar near the entrance on the right of the room. Anticipation was there, but it was definitely the calm before the storm.

She certainly did not mind it... and Ame definitely did not, either. Looking to her right as she sat on her blue cushioned stool at the black, shiny bar, she saw that the blond was in good spirits, in fact. She had a wide smile as she talked to some of their friends who had also settled here. Near her was a glass, though it was just water. The redhead had a small glass of some spiced drink that sounded nice, though she was only lightly sipping as she took the time to relax.

Her attention focused on her lover more as she continued her story, seeming to reach a climax in her tale. “...And then her corrupted form was looming over us, her form all glitchy and blue static from the malfunctioning watch. It was unnerving, really, given how we were seeing her exist in both the past and future as well as the present!”

Next to her, Bae frowned, her rat ears twitching as she looked genuinely unnerved. “How... does one even see something in different time points?”

“It’s... hard to put into words,” the detective said, only able to shrug. “Anything I could say to describe it would never capture the terror of witnessing it.”

This got a wince from IRyS, who was standing behind the Embodiment of Chaos with her arms wrapped loosely around her shoulders. Still, she looked enthralled by the story, staring at the blond in wonder and concern. “Gods, that must have been... How did you remain so calm during that kind of situation?”

The time-traveler shrugged again. “I wasn’t, really. Honestly, I... thought for a moment there that I was going to die. I’m no specialist in fighting anomalies, and those who were had broken ribs and the like.” She looked down, her pheromones taking on a sour quality that revealed the lingering remains of her fear from then. “It... felt like the end was upon me.”

Ollie frowned, moving over enough to lean on her and sending a wave of soothing pheromones. It seemed to work as the other’s scent became lighter, taking a deep breath... And it was helped as a scent of something sweet getting cooked over a fire accompanied hers a moment later. One from a past relationship of the blond’s, but still brought her comfort as their friendship remained intact.

From the zombie’s left, Kiara - the source of these omega pheromones - smiled at her friend and gently prodded her on. “So then how did you get away?”

Ame relaxed further, sending her a grateful look. Then, she gave a sheepish chuckle as she continued. “Well... it was actually thanks to my pheromones. I released a lot of them out of instinct then, trying to ward it off like an alpha being harassed might. Mine have never been that strong, though, and it shouldn’t have done anything regardless since most timeline versions don’t have our dynamics... But it turned out that, in an incredible stroke of luck, this Ame was an omega from her timeline. So despite the corruption, when my scent hit... she backed off.”

On Kiara’s other side, Nerissa gave a low whistle, smiling over at the human. “Wow! Talk about some convenient coincidences... but you seriously underestimate your pheromone strength.” She smirked. “Must have been either really awkward or really hot to do that to an alternate version of yourself.”

Bae looked over at her incredulously. “Are you seriously trying to make something sexual about this traumatic event?”

“Hey, I have to do something to lighten the mood!” the sound demon defended, pointing accusingly at her. “It’s Valentine’s Day, yet someone here apparently wants to hear the gritty details of her missions. Not really a mood setter, is it?” Her gaze went to the blond, smiling sweetly. “I’m not insulting you or your story, though, hun. You were very brave.”

“Thanks... I think?” the detective responded in confusion. Smiling slightly as her mate giggled against her, she soon shook her head and shrugged. “If it helps your ‘mood’ any, though, the story is basically over. After my corrupted counterpart backed off, we all jumped the hell out of there with our watches. The whole matter was passed on to the Temporal Corruption Cleansing Division after that.”

IRyS huffed, looking a tad annoyed. “Aw, what? Boo! I wanted to hear what happened to that Ame! You can’t just leave us on a cliffhanger!”

“I tried to warn you about this one!” the time-traveler said, raising her hands in surrender. “I mean, if it helps, I hear that Ame got saved in the end, albeit with mandatory therapy and several months of forced time off to... recover. I can find the case files later, if you want?”

Bae smirked, poking her girlfriend on the side of her breast. “Oh, that won’t be necessary. In a little while, I’m going to fuck every memory of this day out of her head with how good of a time I’m going to have with her.~”

IRyS just rolled her eyes, smirking back. “Bold of you to assume I’ll be the one left in that state, my little omega.~”

“...You’re literally an omega, too.”

“And yet somehow, I end up on top of you so many times... and keep you tamed with a nice little leash. You even picked your own collar.~”

The rat-girl blushed heavily, especially as everyone else chuckled at her expense. Grumbling, she ended up grabbing the beer she ordered and taking a good gulp of it, apparently intent on loosening her inhibitions to get back at her lover. Everyone else, meanwhile, dissolved into smaller conversations now that the tale was done.

Ollie, for her part, sat up again and drank her spiced drink. She was careful about how much she was taking in, though, and had some water nearby to help dilute it. While she liked the buzz of alcohol on special occasions, she was never interested in getting too tipsy while indulging, let alone drunk. Given how some of her other friends were about drinking, too, it was best to make sure one of them remained sober enough to be responsible.

And this time... that was especially important. Looking over at her mate, she watched as Ame continued to drink her water. Her grip on it was noticeably a little tight, though, with her nose constantly twitching. It was to be expected in a closed space like this. While it had good venting, pheromones were constantly being produced, and the mood they set lingered. For someone like her, it was bound to be a little hard on her senses.

Yet despite this... she actually seemed to be having fun. She was still smiling as she looked at everyone else, listening in on their conversations. Her eyes also scanned over the room where several of their other friends had settled. Calli and Gigi had a small table nearby, for instance, where that gremlin of an omega was clearly wearing her alpha’s self-control down... by yapping and straddling her. Kaela and Zeta were also dancing further away, with the latter clearly being more into it, but the former still grinned. Many others were also visible throughout this place.

The detective seemed to find these interactions amusing, even if some had a sexual charge to them. Her head was not exactly held high, but it was better than she normally was in a club or bar. She typically just kept her head down and snuggled close to the patchwork woman while trying to ignore the stares and booze. But while she was remaining close to her now... she was not being closed off.

The zombie smiled warmly, happy to see her alpha enjoying herself. It had been a good time so far, sharing a few dances and talking with the others. Everything seemed to be going well, and it reinforced her hopes for that day. Just seeing that expression on her alpha, free of the anxiety that seemed to linger over her constantly...

Before she knew it, those protective instincts inside of her started to rise again. Instead of it being out of an urge to defend the other, though, it made her want to get close once more... So she did exactly that. Standing up for better access, she went next to her girlfriend and wrapped her arms around her. She purred joyfully, keeping her embrace tight, as if it would preserve the other’s good mood by sheer force of will. Keep your alpha happy, something seemed to tell her from deep inside.

It was an instinct she was more than glad to obey.

The time-traveler looked over at her while she did this. She was soon smiling, stifling purrs as she tried to speak. “W-what’s this for?”

“Can I not hug my stunning alpha?” the undead-girl asked, giving her doeful eyes oozing with fake innocence.

Blushing, Ame chuckled awkwardly as she turned to take another sip of water. “Ah, come on. Don’t... oversell me.”

“It’s not overselling if it’s true,” Ollie stated, smirking as her lover’s blush worsened. After giggling for a moment, though, she let her gaze soften, deciding to make something clear to her in case anything changed later. “Just remember that we can go home whenever you want. I’m not saying you do right now, but I get that this isn’t your usual thing.”

The detective smiled, shaking her head after drinking some more water. “I’m okay. But you don’t have to come with me if I want to leave later. Almost all of our friends are here! If you want to spend time with them...”

The zombie smiled back, then nuzzled against her neck. “That’s sweet of you. But there’s no way I’m leaving my alpha alone on Valentine’s Day! Where you go, I go!”

The time-traveler giggled, her purrs becoming a bit more noticeable as she lightly shoved her head. “H-hey! Come on! We’re in public!”

“I know you can push me harder than that,” was the undead-girl’s cheeky response. Her smugness only grew as the arm seemed to get weaker after she said this, letting her breathe in that sunflower scent directly from the source unopposed. It burned in her nostrils, her head swimming more from that than the alcohol she had so far, for a moment.

...It made her proud for a second, knowing from Kiara that her mate had not allowed this sort of thing in their relationship. It was hardly an indecent thing to do in public, but it was still rather intimate and had made the blond highly uncomfortable when the orange-haired woman had tried it. Yet here she was, gladly accepting the treatment without a hint of looking like she felt obligated to.

It made her protective instincts feel content once more. Knowing that she had gained so much trust from the blond over the last several months. That... she was finally feeling comfortable with who she was...

The moment was soon interrupted, though, as the aforementioned phoenix chuckled to the side of them. Looking her way, the redhead saw her leaning on the bar, looking at them with good-natured amusement as her girlfriend ordered another drink. “So, do we have to worry about you sneaking to those back rooms like Kronii and Fauna did?”

The question seemed to remind Ame of where she was, her purrs abruptly stopping as she suddenly gave a deep cough. It made Ollie frown a bit, greatly enjoying hearing that sound from her lover. However, she understood that the human was still rather mortified by how easily she set those slip with her. It was rather rare for an alpha to do it as much as she did, admittedly. So she did not comment on it for now.

Kiara clearly noticed the reaction, though, wincing as her expression became apologetic. “Um, sorry. I didn’t mean to interrupt.”

The detective shook her head, quickly smiling over at her. “N-no, you’re fine! That was... It’s nothing.” Her gaze went to the hallway entrance, raising an eyebrow. “Kronii sure is taking a while, though. She isn’t on her rut, is she?”

Bae scoffed from her other side, sipping her beer. “Ame, if you think she needs her rut to go several rounds... or that Fauna doesn’t have her wrapped around their finger to make her go until they’re satisfied regardless... Well, let’s just say we’re not hearing back from those two for another hour or two, that’s for sure.”

“You’re not any better,~” IRyS said in a singsong tone. “If anything, I think she got this behavior from you.”

As the Embodiment grumbled, Kiara caught their attention again as she looked appreciatively at the blond. “It is good to see you being so loose, though. I know that our Valentine’s Day wasn’t the best.” She looked down, regret seeping into her eyes. “I... know I didn’t listen enough to what you were comfortable with back then.”

Ame went rigid at this. She sat up straighter, nearly pushing her omega off by accident as she waved her hands in hasty denial. “Wha-? No! It wasn’t... I-I had a good time last year! Y-you did well with our date!”

...The phoenix stared her down with a deadpanned expression, fingers drumming patiently on the bar. There was no insistence to her stance... yet it only took a few seconds for the blond to falter. She wilted slowly, looking down and mumbling while staring at her glass. “I... don’t think it was that bad, I’ve had worse dates.”

“That, if true, is even more worrying to me,” the orange-haired woman said. She sighed, mustering up a subdued smile, tinged with genuine happiness. “I’m just glad you found your perfect match is all I’m trying to say. You deserve someone as nice as Ollie in your life.”

Said woman blushed at the compliment. She had always had a high respect for Kiara, both as a person and a fellow omega. She admired how she never took any crap from alphas, yet was incredibly sweet to the ones that she considered friends. She always seemed to know what to say to encourage people and make them live to their potential - something she tried to emulate.

It was probably a big part of why the phoenix and the detective had tried to get together, she considered. Aside from being drawn to that inquisitive nature like herself, she had likely wanted to help the blond with her confidence. It was normally something she was good at, after all... Only to realize how deep the time-traveler’s issues went after getting too bold.

She knew now, though, and had no issues with how their relationships had changed after that. Kiara even looked at her, smiling softly while giving her a wink. The support she gave the two of them was always appreciated. The path to this point might have been pretty rough at times, but they remained friends. That was what mattered the most at this point...

Still... they might have reminisced too much on past events, given how Ame was frowning. She set down her water, pushing on her stool to stand up. “I think I’m going to talk with the others for a minute. I thought I saw Gura and Fuwawa get back to dancing.”

Ollie frowned in worry, loosening her hug but not letting go yet as she let her stand. “Are you okay? Do you need more of my pheromones?”

Kiara was also frowning now, her gaze concerned. “I... didn’t mean to make you upset. I’m sorry. Shit, I shouldn’t have brought all that up right now. You-”

“It’s okay - I’m not upset,” the detective quickly reassured. “I just need to clear my head for a minute. I was... already feeling a little on edge before you brought anything up. It’s probably for the best to get it aired out now.” She looked at the redhead, giving a small smile. “You can stay here. I’ll just catch up with Gura, then come back. I can handle the various scents in the air until then!”

The zombie stared her deeply in the eyes. “You promise?”

“I promise,” the time-traveler said, her lack of hesitation being a good sign. Then, after giving her a quick peck on the lips, she pulled back. A last wave of reassuring pheromones came from the alpha as she waved at everyone at the bar. “Don’t wait up for me! Especially if any of you have... urges to fill.”

Without further words, she walked off... though not before having to quickly move out of Calli’s way. Not that the reaper seemed to notice as she marched on with a pissed expression. One in complete contrast to the overjoyed one on Gigi’s face as she was carried over her shoulder while laughing toward the open hallway.

That humorous little scene was almost enough to distract the undead-girl from what had just happened, even as her girlfriend melded with the crowd. But she was swiftly drawn back into that topic as Kiara sighed, leaning on the counter while rubbing her forehead wearily. “Christ... And this is why you don’t drink with your ex, no matter how good or bad the terms you left on.”

Nerissa patted her sympathetically on the shoulder, sliding over a fresh spiked tea. “Don’t say that until you're properly tipsy, my darling.”

“I’m worried about what else might blurt out if I do now,” the phoenix admitted, twirling the white straw in her glass for a bit. She gave a brief chuckle. “Ame actually told me once that most versions of me are not big drinkers. It’s a slim majority, but still...”

Ollie tilted her head at her, a little curious about what was previously said. “Was your date last year that bad? You never gave me the full details on it.”

Kiara sighed heavily. “I’d rather not share too much. Let’s just say that I thought the restaurant I got us reservations at would be good for setting the mood for later... But with what I know now, the thickness of dominant alpha pheromones there was not good for her.”

Everyone else winced, including her mate. IRyS shook her head and muttered to herself. “Jesus...”

“Yeah,” the phoenix replied with self-bitterness. “I felt bad for weeks after that, even if I didn’t interpret things entirely correctly. I just thought she felt overwhelmed into submission by the scents. So I then decided she would react better to the needy scent of an omega.” Her frown deepened. “It... inspired my plan that night, actually. She had her rut, I was in heat, and I had lustful pheromones to give. I thought it would work as an apology for that date, and help her with her self-worth.”

“...But it didn’t go that way,” Ollie said quietly, more a statement of facts than anything.

Kiara groaned, burying her face in her hands. “Oh, gods. I was so stupid! How could I have misread her so badly?! She... Oh, fuck, she was so scared when I stopped things to check why she was so hesitant. If I hadn’t, then...”

A heavy, somber feeling settled over everyone for a time. Ollie herself said nothing, even knowing the most about that situation out of everyone else. She had never been angry at her friend for her actions then... but her current protective instincts made her want to snap at her anyway. She did not think the guilt over how things went then would ever leave the orange-haired woman, or the blond. They were handling it better these days, but... more time was needed to heal those old wounds.

But the immortal was nothing if not a trooper. Thus, after taking a deep breath, she lowered her hands, looking at her drink but appearing more composed than before. “Well... I can’t change how that went. But I am glad that she’s moving on. That’s all I was trying to say. I should have waited another day to give that observation, though.”

The zombie shrugged. “Honestly, she might have gone crazy if no one had brought it up in some way. She’s doing better about it today, but... she needed some reassurances on the way over.” She gave a subdued smile. “Hearing that from you might just be what she needed in the long term. We’ll know for sure when she gets back.”

Kiara sighed, managing a smile even as she gazed at her somberly. “I appreciate you trying to reassure me. I still could have used more tact, though.”

Nerissa patted her on the back again, smiling widely. “If you feel that bad, then get her a drink when she gets back. Nothing strong, of course, but I think this time around she might like to have a few sips.” She smirked, letting out a wave of lustful pheromones - the scent like a forest after a storm. “I can also help you... forget for a while, my darling.~”

The phoenix snorted, smirking at her. “You say that like I won’t be on top of you, milking you dry for all you’ve got.”

“What can I say?” the sound demon asked cheekily. “Ame’s not the only one who behaves a little differently in these dynamics.” She wrapped an arm around her mate’s waist possessively. “I still set the pace, though. And I know you like it pretty rough.~”

The two ended up laughing, taking their glasses and clinking them against one another. The undead-girl watched with a smile, glad for the quick turnaround in mood. The breakup might have been hard on the former couple, but... at least it all worked out in the end. Now everyone seemed to have mates they were happier than ever with! Even with the lingering heartbreak, that was the best outcome one could ask for.

And despite this bump, helping Ame with her emotions was still going very well! She looked at those gathered at the bar, feeling compelled to show her gratitude. “Thank you, by the way. All of you. I know Ame’s felt pretty welcome here so far. Without you guys, I don’t think I could get her to enjoy this bar trip!”

Bae chuckled, her rat tail flickering energetically. “Trust me - the pleasure is ours! I know why she doesn’t like these kinds of socials, but we love her company. And we don’t mind making a concession or two to keep her feeling alright. Why do you think I was asking so much to get her to share work stories?”

IRyS nodded. “Yep! Got that one from Kronii. Whatever she might believe, she’s not the only alpha who behaves like she does, and we’ve had some friends like her over the millennia. You can say we’re experts at this.” She paused, coughing awkwardly. “Minus, you know... telling that she had a fucked up childhood with alphas and omegas alike.”

The rat-girl waved her off. “Eh, no one caught onto it. I think we should just chalk it up to her being good at acting and bottling things up... Which is kind of concerning on its own.”

Ollie shrugged at them. “Well, you shouldn’t have to worry anymore! I happen to be very good at reading her these days. All you have to do is look for the right tells.” She kept the detail about being able to read the blond’s purrs to herself. Even besides how embarrassed Ame was about it... it was so cute that she had to keep it to herself.

The Nephilim grinned. “Lots of confidence there. I like it!” She then gave her a sly smirk, taking a sip of her drink. “It’s nice to see Ame’s gotten a partner who’s so needy for her.”

That got the zombie to blush brightly, her eyes widening. “H-huh?! Where’s this suddenly coming from?! And I’m not-”

“Ollie, hun,” Nerissa called out, looking as amused as her omega partner. “You practically drop everything you’re doing if she asks you to come over. Do I need to remind you of how you bailed on our shopping trip several weeks ago because she wanted you at her office?”

Her cheeks reddening further, the undead-girl looked away, pursing her lips. “She... was feeling bad that day. It’s not unusual to want to help your girlfriend with that.”

“Did you tell her about leaving us while looking like a desperate puppy, though?” the raven-girl asked in a humored tone.

...When the redhead remained silent at this, snickers came from all around her. Bae shook her head, grinning her way. “Ollie, Ame may be down horrendous for you, but that doesn’t change that you’re still down bad for her. That you two haven’t broken down and gotten ‘frisky’ is so interesting to me, given how attached you are.”

Ollie sighed, ignoring the burning of her cheeks as she sipped her drink before responding. “She wants to take her time with it, and I’m fine with that. We’ve been around one another when we have our urges, but she’s just not ready for anything more. I reckon she wants it to be special when we finally cross that line.”

Nerissa grinned, gesturing around them. “Well, hey! Maybe today is that day! The rooms over there are available for a reason.”

The zombie rolled her eyes. “Oh, I’d know if she was ready. She cannot hide her need at all with her pheromones.” She looked across the room toward her lover. Ame was still talking with Gura and Fuwawa, all of them looking rather pleased. Given the big gestures the blond was making, she assumed she was in the middle of another story. And the whole time... she had a wide smile visible from even there.

The patchwork woman’s smile softened, speaking more to herself than anything at this point. “But... I think she wanted to prove herself with this. That she’s not so stuck in her head now. And I’m proud of her for it.” She sighed gently. “I’m in no rush for us to get more intimate... but I look forward to the day she’s brave enough to take that step.”

A hand was placed on her shoulder, squeezing it. She was met with Kiara’s smile when she turned, who nodded at her. “I’m sure that day will be soon. After all... she has a nice, protective omega to help guide her.”

The undead-girl smiled at that, a proud little trill leaving her. It was satisfying to have her efforts there recognized... and she would continue to provide that protection that afternoon. The pheromones would only get thicker once more people were done with their jobs and could come out to relax. The alcohol was not going to help with many people’s concept of personal space, either. Both of which were bound to take a toll on her girlfriend.

But she would do her best to get her through it. And if the other needed to leave, even if she insisted she could stay, she would make sure she could get home safely. This Valentine’s Day was all about her, as far as she was concerned. And no matter what... she was going to ensure that her alpha felt secure and-

She felt a person suddenly step in the space between her and Bae behind her turned back. And before she could even question if it was an accident by a drunk who lost their footing... a feminine voice growled huskily from them. “Well, well. What kind of pretty omega do we have here, then?~”

Both Ollie and Kiara jumped at the intrusion. She turned around to face this new arrival. She was met with a woman she did not recognize with long blond hair and forest green eyes. Her face was nice and angular, with plump red lips to go with it. Her body was fairly curvy with a nice bust and rear, accentuated by a red dress that almost felt too fancy for this place. Though... it did show off the small bump in her crotch, identifying her as an alpha.

If that were not enough, the small dose of pheromones she let out was the final proof. They had that subtle quality to them that any alpha or omega could use to identify one of their kind or the other. Though her scent was... not exactly pleasant to her. Something about the smell, which reminded her of burned coffee, itched her the wrong way.

...But maybe it was just because of the leer this alpha was sending her way, an arrogant smirk on her lips.

An alarm immediately went off in her head, making her tense. But even so, she... tried to be polite. Eyeing the woman over, she scooted her stool a little away, speaking cautiously. “Um... hello? Good... to meet you?”

The lady laughed, continuing to smirk. “Oh, don’t be so nervous. I’m only here to give you a good time.~ Doesn’t that sound wonderful?”

...Well, the zombie supposed she could not fault her for getting straight to the point. She had not wanted to deal with someone who was going to dance around their intentions. But that did not stop her from feeling uncomfortable. She even started to produce pheromones that showed she was not interested in these advances. Any self-respecting alpha would leave when they smelled them, or at least back off a bit and try a more polite approach.

...However, this lady did not move, her expression not faltering. The redhead frowned, annoyed that this stranger was not taking the hint immediately. But before she could voice her disapproval, Kiara cleared her throat and got both of their attentions, helping her as she glared at the woman. “She’s with someone, I’m afraid. And you’re being a little rude anyway, miss...?”

“Oh, call me Caroline,” the woman said. To some credit, she leaned a little away from the redhead now, but her continued presence showed how little she truly cared for that revelation. “And I’m sorry if I’ve caused you any offense. With what day it is and all, I’m just very eager to find me an omega willing to ‘join me’ for a while, you know?”

...Her smirk and tone suggested she was anything but apologetic. Still, while the undead-girl was starting to get irritated... she kept her cool. She had some experience dealing with alphas with too big egos and too much insistence. That was life sometimes, unfortunately. You might hate it, but keeping a level head was for the best unless the other party escalated. Worst came to worst, she could flag down one of the security men she knew were roaming around.

Plus... she did not want to cause a scene and ruin Ame’s good time. Things were going so well for her, and she was not going to let a sudden asshole make her feel like crap. The last thing she should have to worry about was someone trying to steal away her omega, either. Her protective instincts flared up just picturing the scenario, almost making her growl.

Yet even so, she tried to deal with this calmly. Taking a deep breath - and subsequently annoyed at how many more pheromones the alpha was pumping out now - she kept her voice civil as she spoke. “So you don’t have a mate right now, then?”

“Not anymore,” Caroline answered, huffing and looking to the side in annoyance. “I had a boyfriend about a week ago, but he ended up dumping me. His family completely gaslit him about what I was doing with him! And took some conversations I had with them out of context. Can you believe it?”

...Ollie was not sure if the woman was twisting the story, or if she genuinely believed that was how it happened. Because either way... she had a sense that this was much different from that guy’s perspective. Still, though, she held her tongue there and gave a stiff shrug. “My... condolences. That must have been hard.”

The woman waved her hand dismissively. “Ah, it honestly doesn’t really matter to me. He was... really wimpy. But I was hoping to make things work for one more month - give him a chance to change.” She rolled her eyes, throwing her hands up. “But he just had to leave before one of the most passionate days for alphas and omegas. Tsk. I bet he’s all alone in his room, bemoaning what we could have been doing!”

“...I’m sure,” the zombie deadpanned. Her finger tapped on her glass, hoping this lady would finally decide to seek other prey now that she had vented. There were bound to be other singles around looking for a hook-up. And while she felt her fellow omegas could do better than... this, she was not their parent. They could fuck who they wanted. She was at least conventionally attractive, in fairness.

However, luck did not appear to be on her side right now. If anything, Caroline got more comfortable leaning against the bar, smirking at her. “Oh, you have no idea how worried I was that I was going to suffer that same fate... But then what do I spot while hitting up this fine establishment for options? Why, only the most beautiful non-human I think I’ve ever laid eyes upon. Like an intervention from God himself.~”

The undead-girl glared, not bothering to keep the edge out of her tone this time. “I’m taken, in case you missed it the first time.”

“Does that mean I can’t compliment you?” the alpha asked with faux innocence. She looked her over with a gaze that was a bit too piercing. “You look rather soft, but I see a bit of muscle there. Always good to see an omega with good endurance. Your skin has such interesting shades, too! Are you some kind of... flesh golem?”

“A zombie, actually,” Ollie responded coolly. “A patchwork variety.”

The lady hummed, not appearing to actually care about her answer as she kept staring. “I see, I see... Hm, you’re quite petite in your assets. But all fun can come in subtle packages, right?~”

The zombie gritted her teeth, getting closer to the end of her patience. Just how insistent could one lady be? She almost thought she would have an easier time getting some of the frat boys from her old college to back off. At least they had the excuse of being drunk most of the time when they did it! This woman appeared completely sober, though.

She was given some aid, thankfully, as Nerissa cut in from Kiara’s other side. She leaned over the bar enough to glare directly at their unwanted guest, her voice firm. “Miss, she doesn’t want what you’re trying to offer. Can you please go somewhere else?” She punctuated this with a strong wave of challenging pheromones, the scent sharp and cutting.

They made Caroline visibly shudder, and for a moment, anger appeared to spark in those green eyes. But after a quick breath, she straightened her posture, smiling with sickly sweetness. “I don’t think you should get involved in this, dear. You’re not her alpha, I don’t think, are you?”

“No, but I am her friend,” the sound demon responded coldly. “And I don’t appreciate you taking advantage of her patience, or hitting on her when I’m friends with the alpha she’s dating, too.”

The lady scoffed, rolling her eyes as she crossed her arms. “Well, if she has a problem with it, then she can just say so herself, can’t she?”

“Fine - I want you to leave,” the undead-girl stated bluntly, sipping her drink afterward. It was pretty rude, but at this point, it was probably the only way to end this in a reasonable timeframe. Ame could be back any minute. I don’t want her dealing with this bitch.

Caroline glared at her, leaning a little in. “...I think you should reconsider. Trust me - I’m far better than the alpha you came in with.”

Bae scoffed, her tail whipping the woman on the shoulder from behind as she spoke with restrained agitation. “Just fuck off, lady! Seriously, I don’t get why you’re so insistent on Ollie here. Just take the no and leave!”

IRyS nodded, looking equally annoyed. “Yeah, find someone else! I’m sure I saw a few omegas come in by themselves!”

The alpha whipped around and glared at them, hand slapping over her shoulder. “You two omegas watch yourselves! I can have you kicked out for assaulting an alpha! Learn to behave while your mates are away!”

The rat-girl scoffed, her tail possessively going around the Nephilim’s waist as she sent the lady a hard look. “Actually, she and I are dating - not that you need to know that. And that you think we need an alpha to ‘behave’ is just insulting.”

Caroline looked them over again, her look... If it was not disgust, then it definitely bordered on it. But the contempt was quite obvious regardless. “...That doesn’t sound very fulfilling.”

“I’d say I’m fulfilled enough,” Bae replied coldly. A growl was starting to make itself known from the couple, though it was unclear if it was from her or IRyS. Of all the omegas in their friend group, these two were by far the most protective of one another. That they were not baring their teeth after such an indirect insult to their love was the only shocking part about this.

Seeing them get so worked up, though, snapped some final strings in Ollie. It was quite clear this lady did not just like traditional dynamics - she idolized their most toxic forms. Just the idea that an omega could be satisfied without an alpha calling every shot was not something this lady understood, based on her dismissive expression. As if she were dealing with children who did not know better, rather than powerful immortals. (Oh, how she might cower if they dropped that on her...)

And someone like this coming into contact with Ame? Well... she was not going to allow it. She had every confidence her lover would be fine in the end - her trauma did not change how tough she was. But she was not going to let this lady ruin this holiday for her mate. That she was also insulting their other friends was just more fuel to the fire at this point.

Thus, she put her foot down. She sent out a strong wave of her pheromones, steely in their nature and showing her building rage if her expression did not give it away already. “Leave. Us. Alone. Now.” She gripped her hands hard on the counter, giving a heated glare.

Caroline paused, before turning around and giving her a hard stare. “Excuse me?”

“Did I stutter?” the zombie demanded. She pointed to the rest of the club. “Go away, and try to find someone else who might be willing to let your judgmental ass actually touch them. You are overstaying your welcome here.”

The lady scowled, leaning in uncomfortably close and letting a strong wave of pheromones out. “Do you have any idea what I’m trying to offer you here? I know what omegas like you need! You can’t seriously be throwing that away!”

(The two were so locked in their staredown that they did not see IRyS wave to the bartender down the bar. She pointed to what was happening urgently, and instant understanding came over the amber-haired woman’s face. The employee got out a small radio, talking into it subtly while keeping an eye on the scene.)

The undead-girl shuddered, having to bite down her more submissive omega instincts this woman was trying to trigger. Once she did, she pushed her away just enough to let her breathe, now growling as it intermingled with her voice. “My girlfriend already gives me everything I need! And even if I were alone, I still wouldn’t go for a bitch like you!”

Caroline’s scowl only deepened, slamming her hand on the counter as she pointed at her. “Don’t lie to me, you ungrateful brat! That ‘mate’ of yours has always been a limp-dicked puppy! She can’t satisfy your heats like I can!”

The insult directed at Ame made Ollie growl harder, baring her teeth now. “The fact that you think my heats are all I care about in love is the problem, you-!”

Many more insults were on the tip of her tongue... but then, the exact words this lady said caught up to her. It made her stop short, her anger receding, though far from going away, as she processed them. Wait... ‘always been?’ Like... As if she...

She was only a split second too slow to ask the question herself. Instead, Nerissa, who had stood up and had been walking around Kiara to help get this lady away, was the one who did. She had stopped next to her mate, the two exchanging a look before the black-haired woman raised a pointed eyebrow at the other alpha. “What... do you mean by that? You haven’t even seen her girlfriend.”

The lady scoffed, looking at her like she was a moron. “Of course I did! I recognized that pathetic pup the moment I saw you all at the bar.” She looked to the redhead, smirking at her. “I don’t know what she’s told you about herself... but trust me, she’s the worst alpha you could ever date. Always has been! Anyone from our classes at Helton High could tell you that!”

...A pin seemed to drop at that. Everyone had their eyes locked onto this woman, those words sinking in. As they did, though... the zombie saw their expressions change. Going from shock, to disbelief... then a new, more potent anger as they all glared. Kiara’s was especially intense, a protective growl leaving her now, too - a rare thing to do for a non-mate, partially with how low hers was.

It matched up perfectly with her own rage. She spoke slowly, leaning back from the intruding alpha as things clicked into place - looking to get one last confirmation before she exploded. “Are... you seriously saying that you are-”

“-One of the people who bullied me?” a familiar voice cut in, devoid of emotion. “Yeah - she is. One of the worst ones, too.”

All eyes, including Caroline’s, turned to the voice. The undead-girl’s heart sank as she, as expected, saw Ame standing there, apparently back from her talk with Gura and Fuwawa. Those two were hanging back not far away behind her, though, looking quite worried. They seemed to want to get closer, but it almost looked like they... were told not to.

She was not really focused on that, though. She was too busy despairing that her lover had returned before she could end this confrontation. The good mood she had tried so hard to create for her could potentially be down the drain now. All because of some asshole alpha who could not take a “no.”

...And one who had apparently contributed to her insecurities and self-loathing beliefs.

That realization seemed to hit the others, too, as Bae went to stand up, looking at her friend with concern. “Ame! I’m so sorry. We were trying to get her to-!”

“It’s fine, Bae,” the detective said, her voice... unnaturally neutral, not even glancing at her. “She’s never been good at accepting rejection... Isn’t that right, Caroline?”

Said woman rolled her eyes, smirking at her and giving a mocking wave. “Amelia. I can’t believe you’re still in this city. I see that you haven’t stopped finding ways to trick others into thinking you aren’t a runt.”

“And I see you haven’t stopped making stupid decisions while tipsy,” the time-traveler said coolly. “Not that they’re much better when you’re sober.”

There was a brief pause from the others, who stopped moving. Ollie herself was momentarily shocked, not used to hearing such a tone from her girlfriend. She had seen her angry before, especially when talking about bad cases. But this felt... different, somehow. Almost as if...

She looked at her alpha more closely, starting to realize other things about her demeanor. Her hands were clenched tightly at her sides, though she tried to hide them by putting them in her coat pockets. Her whole body was tense in a way that suggested she was ready to pounce. Her face, normally so open with her emotions, was unusually blank. And yet her blue eyes, usually so shy yet inviting, were like two pools of pure ice now.

And while it took a moment for them to reach the redhead... she soon also got a whiff of her pheromones. They were heavy... and sharp. The kind of sharpness she had used a few times that day herself. One that was far more common with alphas than omegas... but not like this from her. Strong enough that it felt like it might cut her nostrils if she breathed too hard.

In short... Ame was deeply enraged. And all of that fury was being directed at her old bully.

The zombie gaped a little, not sure what she felt then. Shocked, definitely, having not expected her girlfriend to be so bold upon seeing this. Beyond that, though... was she worried? Proud? Scared? She had no clue, and a brief look at the surprised faces of the others showed they had no clue how to react, either.

The shock was also, unfortunately, enough that none of them tried to stop their unwanted guest in time when she stepped away. Carline was therefore able to stand before her fellow alpha, not appearing concerned by the others’ atypical behavior. She looked and sounded more annoyed than anything. “Since when did you have any kind of spine?”

“Since finding people who actually cared about me,” the detective stated, her cold tone not wavering even as the other’s pheromones made her nose twitch.

Caroline just rolled her eyes, stalking around her. “Oh, please! It’s a nice act, I’ll give you that. But you’re not fooling me. I can see how it might be enough to fool these people, though.” She smirked, leaning closer to her face. “I wonder how they might react to seeing you-”

“Acting meek and awkward?” the time-traveler asked, glaring hard at her. “Like my pheromones and other traits are more of a problem to me than something I like? Seeming more like an omega than an alpha?” She nodded to her friends. “Well, they know all of that. They have for years, and much more these last several months. Try again with your threats.”

That actually seemed to surprise the other blond for a moment. She gaped, eyes wide as she looked over at the group. “Wha...? You... you liar! There’s no way you of all people managed to make friends with mythics who look this good!” She pointed at Ollie. “And there’s no way you got an omega without acting!”

Ame just shugged. “Turns out you can find love without acting like something you’re not. And that the world doesn’t just revolve around traditional dynamics.” She frowned deeply and coldly. “I do still struggle with that, I’ll admit. You, however, clearly haven’t done any growing up since middle school, let alone high school.”

Caroline glared back at her, poking her chest. “Oh, feeling high and mighty all of a sudden? Do I need to remind you who was on top back then? Who’s still on top?”

Kiara was clearly getting fed up, starting to rise from her stool. “Okay, that’s enough from-!”

The detective suddenly snapped her gaze toward her... and spoke with the heavy command that only an alpha could. “Sit!”

The word was punctuated by a wave of pheromones, her sunflower scent feeling like a vice grip even to Ollie. All of the omegas of their group froze, their baser instincts hit by that one. And... the phoenix sat back down wordlessly, face the picture of shock. The undead-girl similarly felt glued to her seat then, despite the command not being directed at her. Bae looked to be in a similar situation, and IRyS almost appeared like she was going to sit in her lap to obey the command. Even Nerissa paused, appearing amazed by what had just happened.

Had... any of them ever heard Ame use an alpha command outside of a case? And so powerful and effective of one?

It seemed to make Caroline stumble for a second, too. But, whether out of bravery or stupidity, she brushed it off and continued acting smug, smirking again as she circled the time-traveler. (Like an alpha using commands like that was not a bad sign for her...) “Acting so tough... Do you not remember who took five omegas from you throughout our time in school? Made them so happy when you couldn’t get them through their heats in bed?”

“You say that like omegas are prizes and not people,” Ame responded, returning her glare to her. “And I seem to remember all of those omegas regretting their decision once the cloud of heat went away.”

Her former bully waved her off dismissively. “As if! I was the best alpha in school! I gave them the best time of their lives, like I always do!”

“...Which is why three of them moved schools after dating you a few weeks, and you got... ‘upset’ when they broke up with you?” the detective asked. “And why the other two, who used to be so bright and happy, were so quiet and dead-looking afterward? Don’t think I didn’t hear about the ‘talk’ one of their siblings had with you, too.”

Caroline simply rolled her eyes. “Sounds to me like they were just particularly weak omegas.”

“Sounds to me like a certain alpha was lucky their parent on the school’s board was good at keeping them from facing consequences,” the time-traveler deadpanned. “All while not curbing that toxic behavior.”

“There’s nothing wrong with how I behave!” the lady insisted. “Everyone listened to me! I got so many omega partners! I proved I was the best alpha there was in our school!”

“...And now here you are, alone and trying to get a quick pump-and-dump, while I actually have success and love,” Ame stated.

...Just when Ollie thought she was done being shocked, her lover surprised her again. Her jaw hung open, barely able to believe those words had just come from Ame. Everyone else was gaping, too, and exchanging looks, including the still distant Gura and Fuwawa listening in... Though, the former, along with Kiara, appeared like they also wanted to give her a high-five or something from how impressed they were.

And honestly... she did, too.

As for Caroline herself... To say she looked pissed would be an understatement. Her cheeks reddened with anger, starting to bare her teeth as she practically snarled at her. “How... how dare you! Do you actually think you’re better than me now?” She gestured widely, as if the people she was referring to were in the crowd. “What about the other alphas at our school? They stole away every partner you tried to have, too! Are you going to tell me they’re all as awful as you’re saying I am?!”

The detective, interestingly, shrugged and shook her head. “Not as bad, no. They made a point to subtly or directly humiliate me for it among everyone, but a lot of them at least showed respect to our omega classmates. Not all of them even tried to steal from me - my old mates just went to them naturally.”

The other alpha smirked, seeming to believe she was regaining control of the situation. “You were so embarrassed by that, right? I know you were! Seeing how pathetic you were to lose partners so easily!”

“...It hurt, yes,” the time-traveler admitted quietly, looking down briefly. Before anyone could move or say anything, though, she took a deep breath... and made eye contact with a look that screamed of resolve. “But... it doesn’t matter anymore. That place promoted the worst traits of alphas and berated those who couldn’t fall in line. None of it was healthy, and I truly hope many of our classmates realize that now and have toned themselves down.

“And as for me... I’m trying to move on. I’m not going to continue being ashamed of who I am just because of what you say. You all hurt me... but I’m happy now. I’ve actually done things with my life that I’m proud of.” She shook her head, crossing her arms as her voice got colder. “And the fact that you had nothing better to do than to try and humiliate me again the moment you saw I was here... That tells me all I need to know about where you’ve ended up in life. And how desperate you are for validation.”

Taking a deep breath, she pointed her thumb behind her at Gura and Fuwawa. “Now, with all do respect... please just fuck off. Or my friends over there will show you why they were Atlantis’ top warrior and the highest-rated guard dog in hell, respectively.” Her eyes darkened. “Or... you can deal with me.”

A tense silence followed this, seemingly immune to the noise of the room around them. Caroline stared at her former victim, not appearing to know how to process Ame standing so strong against her. It was like she could not compute that this woman was the same alpha she had bullied into submission for years growing up.

Ollie herself felt that way a bit... but in the best possible way. She stared at her mate with wide eyes... and she would not have been able to hide how proud she was if she tried. Though, of course, she did not want to. She wanted the other to know exactly how happy she was that she was doing this - standing unwavering and not taking crap from this lady. It was taking a lot for her not to run over and kiss her everywhere on her face, honestly.

Coming out for this date, she had been so worried about the past dragging her girlfriend down. She had thought she would need to be on constant alert after what happened on the way over. Something she would never have blamed the other for. She deserved to feel safe and protected after her experiences and just wanting to have a nice day with her lover and friends.

But now... she was seeing she did not need to have worried quite so much.

She was unable to follow these thoughts further, though, as Caroline growled lowly. Her face was slowly flushing red, shaking with anger. “You... You’re not better than me! You aren’t! You’re just a pathetic...! You think you c’n just insult me?!”

The detective just raised an eyebrow coolly. “Did you just slur one of your words there? You really are drunk, aren’t you? I guess that explains the more brutal honesty. Though I don’t think anyone here would have bought any of your acts.”

“You’re the one acting!” the other alpha practically screeched, poking her chest hard. “You’re nothing! Do you hear me?! You aren’t... I’m...!” She sputtered for several seconds, clearly struggling to make a good comeback or insult. More of her words slurred, and Ollie wondered if the alcohol was going to catch up to this woman and make her pass out.

Then... those green eyes looked at her, and she paused. After which... a dark, more sinister smirk crossed her face that set the redhead on edge. She leaned away on her stool instinctively, getting a bad feeling about what was about to happen.

It only strengthened when Caroline looked back at the time-traveler, that expression not dissipating. “...You know, you really can’t fool me. You might say you’ve shown them how weak you are... but I know you didn’t show them everything. I’m more amazed that alpha over there, nor any others in this group of yours, proved this point already.”

That managed to get a little confusion to seep into Ame’s expression, her eyebrows furrowing. “What... do you mean?” Her concern was mirrored by her friends at the bar, too, who were exchanging looks and looking ready to finally move in to intervene.

(They became so focused on the lady, that none of them noticed a man in all black with a radio on his shoulder come up to Gura and Fuwawa. He exchanged words with them and pointed at what was happening, to which they perked up and started speaking quickly to him.)

The other blond simply chuckled, her eyes alight now with something... disgusting. “I mean, when an alpha sees an omega not being satisfied correctly... you just have to save them, right? Claim them and show them what it means to be in the hands of a good alpha. One who isn’t afraid to even drop their pants.”

She leaned in, her voice getting more sinister. “...And you remember how I did that with your past mates, don’t you?”

...Ame’s eyes widened, a flash of fear entering them. “Wha-? You can’t-!”

“None of the other alphas were as brave as I was,” Caroline continued in a singsong voice, whose undertones were too dark to make it sweet. “Even the principal seemed horrified. But I know it was just because I was doing it at too young an age. My mom and dad always explained that I was just too overeager.” She sighed with an unnerving contentment. “It makes me happy knowing I made my mark on them for years. Reminding them that I was always the best alpha they knew. The only one strong enough to take them!”

The detective’s expression became a mixture of emotions. She took her hands out of her pockets, which she seemed to have to force to untighten. “Caroline-”

“And all you could do was stand there and take it,” the alpha stated, smirking widely. “You did nothing, because you knew you were nothing!” She leaned in. “...And I’m going to prove it again right now. Remind you of your place, you pathetic, whimpy puppy!”

She backed away before Ame could grab her, turning around without even caring she was there anymore. Instead, her eyes locked onto Ollie, who tensed up at the hungry gaze she received. Alarms went off in her head, knowing this lady was going to try and do something horrible. She felt like she knew what, but it was just out of reach in her head-

But then, the alpha spoke to her... and made her intent clear as her smirk only darkened. “So, little omega... Give me your neck, and let me show you what a good time really is.~”

...It hit the undead-girl then with perfect clarity, her eyes widening in horror. When Caroline said she had left her mark... she meant it literally. She wanted to give her a claiming mark. To bite her neck right on her pheromone glands, kicking up the correct omega instincts in her... and let everyone know she was hers. That no other alpha should even touch her. The earliest way that alphas and omegas claimed their mates, and remained one of the most intimate things one could do.

...And you never forced it upon an alpha or omega. Even the most intimate of couples did not always do it! Not just because of how it affected one's hormones and pheromones, either! Such a mark lasted months, or even years! It was a huge commitment for long-standing couples. Doing it out of the blue to a stranger, though... It was considered the worst kind of sexual assault besides rape. It could fuck with your head so badly, and everyone was taught that it was a terrible thing to do.

Expect for, apparently, this woman... whose predatory eyes only showed glee for the awful thing she was about to attempt.

Ollie’s hands shot up to her neck immediately, covering it as she could not help but cower from the dread filling her. She moved to hop out of her chair to put more distance between them. “H-hey, now wait! I don’t want-!”

“Stay still!” Caroline growled, her commanding pheromones sharp as they hit her. They triggered her omega instincts, causing her to freeze for a second. She pushed through them, though, and shuddered as she forced her body to move again-

-but it was all the time this alpha needed to close the distance. Suddenly, she was pushed against the bar, and her hands were ripped away from her neck. A single arm, whose strength she had severely underestimated, pinned them above her head, allowing the woman to loom over her. She grinned darkly, licking her lips as the omega’s blood ran cold.

Sounds of protest came from around her, but it seemed like Bae, IRyS, and Kiara were taking a moment longer to fight off the command, having been caught off guard. Nerissa, though, who was not affected the same way, had moved and was trying to grab the lady’s shoulder. “Hey, get off of her! You can’t-!”

Caroline’s free arm shot out, pushing away the sound demon, who had also apparently not realized her strength. The lady barely even focused on her or the others, though. Her gaze was locked on Ollie, her eyes crazed as she gave a manic smile, completely at odds with the soothing tone she had tried to use. “Shhh. Just hold still, little omega. This’ll feel good. You’ll see in just a second.”

Her head was already leaning down, her lips brushing her neck. The zombie’s breath hitched, struggling to get free of this insane alpha. She screamed, hoping that others in the crowd would try to do something, too. “HELP! PLEASE!”

She could not tell if any bystanders were coming to help. Everything felt like it was moving both too fast and too slow. She heard her friends all standing now, a crackle of flames and a flash of violet light indicating that Kiara and IRyS were summoning their weapons. She imagined everyone else was, too, but they felt so distant then, despite being so close. None of them were moving fast enough, it felt, to stop what was happening.

And then she felt a tongue lick her glands, and that burnt coffee scent became fuller and more... alluring. Her breath hitched, her whole body going taut, as if she could physically stop her omega instincts from reacting how they were meant to when hit with these kinds of pheromones. She struggled, trying to get her arms free so she could push the head away, or claw at it - do something! She was strong! She could feel how this monster was losing her hold on her already.

But... it was too slow. As she was getting them loose, she felt teeth grazing her glands. She could not breathe, eyes wide, but everything was a blur to her vision. It... it was about to happen. She could not stop it. Someone other than her alpha was going to claim her, and as that made bile rise in her throat, she felt that mouth about to press harder, making it official, violating her in a way she did not-

Then, before the teeth could sink in... the woman was quickly and violently ripped from off of her. The moment the body was gone, she took a deep, frantic breath, straightening her posture. She was still on her legs, but she needed to keep her back pressed against the bar to keep from collapsing with how bad her legs were shaking. One hand shot up to where she had been licked, needing to touch her neck to be sure. To make sure she was not... not...

But there was no bite - no pain or indents to indicate one. Her neck was wet, and knowing what caused it was making her nauseous, but... it was unmarked. She had not been claimed against her will. She was not... It had not gotten...

Her adrenaline spiked, though, as she heard that monster shout to her side. “Let go of me! I was only trying to help her realize- ack!”

That yelp was accompanied by the sound of getting thrown against the bar with a loud bang. Startled, the undead-girl whipped her head that way... and saw Caroline was now the one being pinned, her arms forced against the counter. She was groaning, too, dazed as though she had just been in a rough fight. She struggled weakly, but the one holding her only tightened the hand on her wrists, causing noises of pain to leave her.

Though it was not Kiara or IRyS, or any of the others who had been at the bar. All of them stood with their various blades and weapons - or red glowing strings in Bae’s case - around the scene, looking shocked once more. Nor was it Gura or Fuwawa, the latter of whom she suspected would have been able to move so quickly. And it was not any of their other friends who might have been close enough to witness the spectacle.

No... the one pinning her was none other than her girlfriend, Ame... and she looked pissed.

The redhead forgot to breathe again as she saw the expression on her mate. Never before had she seen her look so... murderous. Her teeth were bared, a growl so deep emanating from her that she nearly could not comprehend it came from her sweet alpha. Her whole body trembled, her stance that of a tiger ready to tear apart an opponent. That was before her pheromones hit, too... that sunflower scent feeling inappropriate for how heavy and dangerous they were.

She was a spring waiting to be let loose... and the moment the other alpha tried to move, she unwound. With a snarl, her other hand moved in a flash... and she punched Caroline’s head against the bar. It snapped back against it with a terrible crack, the woman yelling in agony. When she turned her head, it revealed the hit had also dislocated, and maybe broken, her nose, which gushed with blood.

And before anyone could process that... Ame yanked her up, using both hands to grip the front of her dress. Her glare was hot enough to melt steel as she scowled, her pheromones shooting out with a scent so sharp it could almost physically cut someone. And as she did this... she growled out her words in a voice far deeper and angrier than the omega had ever heard. “Never. Touch. Her. AGAIN!”

Everything went still, the group staring at Ame in shock. The nearby tables and other bystanders were all also now paying attention, if they had not been already, and took in the scene. Yet the detective did not appear to notice as she kept her eyes locked on her former bully, looking ready to pummel her again.

And as for Caroline herself... She was completely pale as she was forced to stare at the other blond. For the first time, she was staring at her old victim with fear, looking completely frozen and not even trying to fight back. She just let herself be held, her legs limp under her as her mouth tried to form words. It looked like she might soil herself any second now, if she had not already done so.

She looked so small now... while Ame stood tall, ready to tear her apart for trying to mark her lover.

Then... someone came in behind her and lightly cleared his throat, which felt like a gunshot in the suddenly quiet bar. “Excuse me, miss?”

Ollie looked at the man along with everyone else. After a moment for her brain to catch up... she recognized the all-black clothing to be the mark of security there. The man was tall and muscular and was a good head taller than even Nerissa. He was also letting off pheromones - smelling like cooking meat - that marked him as an alpha. However, his were currently soft and smooth, indicating non-hostility toward fellow alphas.

Ame snapped her head to look behind her, glaring at the man as she growled. He kept his distance, though, and spoke to her in a calm, polite tone, keeping his pheromones nonconfrontational. “...I received a complaint about the woman you’re holding. I also witnessed what she was about to do to the other woman over there.” He carefully pointed toward the zombie. “Your mate, I’m assuming.”

Her expression not changing, the time-traveler eventually gave a curt nod. The man nodded back, pointing at Caroline. “We don’t tolerate that kind of assault here. If you would please hand her over to me, I’ll vacate her from the premises immediately... and also have the police called, if you so wish. She won’t get away.”

Tense moments passed where no one moved... Then, with a sound that was a mix of a growl and a huff, Ame lifted the still-stunned lady off the ground. With a turn, she tossed her at the security man, who caught her and kept her from falling to the ground. He had a firm grip on her shoulders, though, clearly ready for her to get... difficult once her fear wore off.

He nodded at the detective, backing up slowly. “Thank you. You’re excused for now for your behavior, given the circumstances. But please try not to get so violent with anyone else this afternoon for the safety of everyone here.” He looked around at the staring bystanders, projecting his voice and releasing stronger pheromones. “Everything is under control. Please return to what you were doing.”

With that, he dragged the woman away, who remained in a daze for the time being. Slowly, activity returned around the club as conversations restarted and people went back to their drinks. There was a weariness in the air, but everyone seemed to be trying to ignore it until it went away naturally.

Ollie, though... felt stuck. She looked down, trying to keep her breathing steady as everything calmed down... but found that she could not. Her hand went back to her neck, feeling the area that had been licked... That had almost been marked. Her head kept replaying the events, which still felt so... vivid.

She was distantly aware of Kiara coming in at her side, voice filled with frantic concern. “Ollie! Are you okay?! Did she hurt you anywhere?! Oh, I’m so sorry! It’s been so long since I had to fight off an alpha command like that! I...!”

The zombie barely understood the words. She felt trapped in that moment... feeling the tongue and the teeth that had grazed her. Three... Three seconds. That was how long it was. Three seconds... going in to do it with no foreplay. Trying to mark me so roughly... Against my consent...

If her girlfriend had been only a split second slower...

Another voice came in on her other side, which she almost did not recognize as Bae through the static in her ears. “Ollie? Hey! Are you-?”

A hand touched her shoulder... and it burned. The undead-girl flinched hard, quickly moving away from it. Her back hit the bar as she took shallow breaths, one arm hugging herself while the other remained on her neck. It rubbed around her scent glands, too wired to get any pleasure from it. She just kept checking it, needing to make sure... having to make sure it was unmarked. She rubbed and rubbed and...

Voices were near her, but she could not understand them anymore. Her eyes were open, but everyone around her was formless shapes. Her lungs felt like they were being strangled directly alongside her rapidly beating heart. She must have been crying, because she felt trails of wetness going down her cheeks, scorching her skin.

She... she did not understand what was happening. She was safe now! She had not been bitten! There was... no reason to be acting like this, she tried to tell herself. They could... return to having fun. She should be checking up on Ame. This... day was still salvageable, right? It was important to... to make sure her alpha was having a good time. That was why they were there!

So... why could she not calm down? Why was her every nerve focused on her neck, unable to get rid of the feeling of those teeth? Why was her blood pumping, feeling like it was hotter than even a human’s right now? And how did she feel so cold at the same time? Why was she shivering? Why could she not focus and think-!

Then there were light touches on her shoulder. But instead of burning... the reassuring scent of sunflowers that accompanied them made them feel soothing. They gave her an anchor to ground herself a little, blinking away the tears in her eyes. She looked up slowly... and was met with Ame’s blue eyes - her face the only thing that had any clarity to her at the moment.

And on it... that dark rage from before was nowhere to be found. Only a deep concern as she spoke softly, her voice cutting through the static. “Ollie...? Can you hear me?”

...Ollie did not know why that broke her. It could have been anything - her failure to stop the situation from happening, the day being ruined, the sudden deep need she had for comfort, or so many other things. More likely it was all of those things at once... and being held by the person whom she loved most. Had protected her from something horrific.

But regardless... she could not stop her breakdown as her tears fell freely. Before she knew it, she had collapsed forward, burying her face in her alpha’s chest. She sobbed, clinging to her tightly as every emotion she felt these last several minutes crashed out of her. (Was it only a few minutes? It... had felt longer.) Her whole frame shuddered, breathing in deeply and trying to find comfort in the pheromones of her lover.

And the whole time... the detective held her, rubbing her back in soothing motions. Leaning her head down and whispering to her as her scent became softer... and full, rich purrs left her. “I’ve got you... It’s over. She can’t hurt either of us anymore. She can’t hurt you. It’s okay.”

The zombie wanted to say that she knew it was okay, but the words refused to leave her. All she could do was cry, unable to control her erratic pheromones. She had no clue what they felt like now, but... it was enough to make the blond hold her tighter. All she could focus on was the sweet scent of the time-traveler, though, that wrapped her up like a warm blanket. It made her head feel floaty, almost able to forget the terrible experience she just had.

It felt like nothing could hurt her... Safe in the embrace of her alpha.

Things happened around her in a blur for the next little while. She was vaguely aware of the talking going on around her, still meaningless to her ears. Then, after a while, she felt herself being moved gently, never once letting go of her lover. With her face still buried, she did not see where she was being led. But the sounds of the bar soon became muffled, and she could hear her mate’s calming words and purrs more clearly now, so she did not care for a long while.

Then... she heard a door closing. Following this, she found herself being dragged onto... what felt like a bed. Ame held her the entire time, lowering them onto it with her on the bottom and the redhead on top. It was a massive relief to her, no longer needing to worry about standing and letting their legs tangle up. There was not even a hint of other pheromones around them besides their own now, which she reveled in as they intermingled.

They remained like this for what felt like an eternity. Slowly, but gradually, her senses started to return to her. She became more aware of the cushioning they were lying on top of and the blue and purple lighting in the room. She could hear her own breathing again as the static reduced to a hum in her ears, then eventually disappeared. Her breaths evened out, her whole body sagging as her heart finally slowed down, no longer primed for danger.

As her head cleared, she also lifted her head, properly taking in her surroundings... and realized where they were. While she had never been in one of these rooms before, it was clear from the dark blue blanket with heart designs covering the bed and the neon outline depictions of sexy women on the wall where she was. It was one of the back rooms meant for alpha and omega couples to “relieve” themselves. A place for intimate moments... Not breakdowns like she had.

She blushed lightly as this registered, embarrassment and shame intermingling. The room was mercifully silent, though, besides some low music playing from a speaker somewhere above. She was grateful for the soundproofing that was clearly in play, not wanting to hear the moans of people who were likely in the nearby rooms. Any other time, she might have found it funny... but not right now.

Any amusement she could have drawn from being in here with her lover only died further when said woman hummed. It made her look up at her face... where she was once more met with deep worry in those blue eyes. “...Are you back with me?”

Cheeks darkening, Ollie managed a slight nod. Then, her head fell back onto the blond’s chest, closing her eyes. Her eyes stung from all the crying she had done, yet somehow more tears managed to escape. Her voice came out small and hoarse. “I... I’m sorry. I...”

Ame held her close, more purrs leaving her as she nuzzled the top of her head and released more soothing pheromones. “Shhh. It’s okay. I’ve got you...”

The zombie swallowed thickly, still having trouble processing everything. How... had their positions flipped so fast? It was not even an hour ago that she was helping her girlfriend not get overwhelmed by all the scents in the air - protecting her. And now... she was in worse condition than the blond had been all day. Feeling like she might shatter if the other let her go right now.

It all felt so disjointed... but she tried to make sense of it. Swallowing again, she opened her eyes and glanced up, speaking meekly. “What... what happened? How did we get in here?”

She saw the pain flash in the detective’s eyes at this. But still, she answered softly while moving a hand up to pet her hair. “When you... shut down, we decided to get you somewhere private. Nerissa and Kiara helped me find an empty room so you could focus better on my pheromones.” Her cheeks pinkened lightly. “This... would not have been my first choice, but I didn’t want to freak you out by transporting us with my watch, even if Kronii allowed it, so...”

The undead-girl managed a small, frail grin at that. The humor did not last, though, as she looked down, pursing her lips as it faded. “Are... they okay?”

“...As well as they can be,” the time-traveler responded. “They all appeared to be ashamed for not reacting faster. Caroline has always had potent pheromones, though - they shouldn’t be too hard on themselves.” She shuffled, seeming uncertain. “They, along with Bae and IRyS, are... finding the others. To let them know what happened for when you’re ready to come out.”

...Well, that made sense, Ollie supposed. This was hardly something they could just... pretend did not happen. She did not think she would be able to talk about it, either. So she was grateful to them for that... even if she was not looking forward to the conversations that would follow.

That was for later, though. She tried to focus on something else for the moment... and furrowed her eyebrows as a detail occurred to her. “And... what about Gura and Fuwawa?”

Ame gave a quiet, subdued snort. “I think I saw them follow the security guard outside. I think they want to make extra sure Caroline doesn’t get away... Though I hope they don’t try to escalate things.”

The zombie hummed... but was not sure she would blame them if they did. They had all wanted to take a shot at the blond’s old bullies from the moment they had learned about them. And after what just occurred... a murder just might be on the table, with even Justice participating.

Recalling the event, however, caused her to whimper, curling up against her alpha. They were silent for a minute after that, her taking deep breaths of the other’s pheromones and listening to her purrs... Something she was now realizing the human had done out in the open a bit ago. An action she was so mortified by, usually... yet she had let them loose with no hesitation the second her omega had fallen on her.

The realization made something warm stir in her heart. She opened her mouth a few times, trying to find the words for her gratitude. To convey how much it meant to her that she was doing this for her. Just... how indebted she felt to her for being saved from a forced marking.

Yet before she could... she was stopped by the sound of the detective sniffling. She then spoke again, her voice slightly choked. “Ollie, I... I’m so sorry I didn’t get there sooner.”

The undead-girl blinked, looking up at her again with disbelief. “Huh?”

Sniffling again, the time-traveler looked down at her with watery eyes. “I... If I’d known Caroline was here, I would never have left your side. I should have gotten her away from you faster, too! I knew what kind of horrible things she used to do, but... I thought she would have grown past that. I let her get to me enough for a second that she almost... And now you...”

She trailed off, closing her eyes as tears left the corners of them. Ollie, though, could only stare at her for a time. The contrast from just minutes prior was almost surreal. Out there, this woman had looked ready to paint the bar red with that monster’s blood - ready to fight to protect every inch of her. She had looked fierce, like a powerful alpha that some might be expected of her.

But now... here she was crying because she felt she had not done good enough. Because she felt awful that she had gotten so shaken up and hurt. All born from a care for her well-being and likely those self-worth issues of hers.

...And it made her love her all over again as much as it also made her heart break.

Without even thinking about it, the redhead shuffled upward enough to put them at eye level. With no hesitation, she gave her a soft kiss, though she put as much of her love into it as possible. The blond tensed briefly, but soon melted into it, her hand continuing to run through her hair as they both enjoyed the momentary respite.

When their lips disconnected, she looked into the other’s eyes softly. And while she still felt unsteady, she kept her voice even and warm. “Ame... you saved me. I was caught off guard, and she almost...” Shuddering, she shook off the memory and continued. “But because of you... it didn’t happen. You were amazing out there. So don’t you dare try to put yourself down. You couldn’t have predicted that she would be here, so just be proud of what you did.”

Ame pursed her lips, looking a bit uncertain. However, after a sigh... she nodded, her eyes softening as well. “Okay... I’ll try.”

The zombie nodded... then looked down, feeling a bit guilty herself. She spoke again, not really thinking about her words. “I’m... sorry, too. I feel... I thought I was going to be protecting you all day and needing to comfort you. Not because you’re weak - I just know these outings aren’t entirely comfortable for you.” She sighed heavily. “I’ve seen how strong you can be, yet I was still kind of caught off guard by...”

She trailed off, and for a moment, she worried her lover would take that badly. But the detective put a hand on her cheek, and she was relieved to find her staring at her with understanding. “Hey, I get it. I’ve not exactly been at my best today. I’m... actually in disbelief at how I acted myself out there.” Her eyebrows furrowed, looking down. “It’s like I was... possessed. Just, the moment she got on top of you and close to your neck, I... just saw red. Every fiber of me wanted to tear her limbs off.” She shivered. “It was kind of scary in hindsight...”

The undead-girl managed a small smile. “Well, if it helps... you doing that so instantly to protect a mate definitely makes you the greatest alpha I’ve ever met.”

Blinking once, the time-traveler soon gave a few shaky giggles. She smiled back, arms draped along her back. “I guess I’ve got that, then.”

Ollie giggled, too, glad for the bit of levity as a few knots undid themselves in her chest... However, the dour mood soon dragged her back down as her expression dimmed. She looked away, sighing again. “I... can see how you ended up the way you are now, though. With monsters like that growing up...”

Ame pursed her lips, shrugging vaguely. “I mean... she was probably one of the worst examples, if not the worst. But... yeah, she and others definitely did not like my... softer nature.”

The zombie lowered herself, burying her face in the crook of her neck. She closed her eyes, feeling her heart twist once more. “I’m so... I’m sorry. I just wanted you to have a good time on Valentine’s Day for once. And now...” God, there was no recovering this day. Not after that, and how queasy she still felt. Her neck was starting to itch now, too, the sensation of those teeth coming back.

It must have shown on her face, given how the detective paused. Then... she asked her a question gently. “...Can I rub your scent glands?”

...The undead-girl nodded hesitantly. Not because she was against such treatment, but because she had no clue how she would react right now. With how mixed up her emotions were... She did not want to snap at her lover over nothing.

But the moment her alpha’s hands came to her neck... she found her worries were for nothing. The moment the small massage began, she instantly became putty in her hands, shivering in delight instead of disgust. She sagged against her once more, her eyes fluttering shut. Just for a second, she could even pretend that awful experience had never happened.

This was the kind of intimate touch she wanted. Not from some vile human being, but someone who loved and cherished her. And she was not going to let the events of today make her unable to enjoy this, if she had anything to say about it... or even more intimate matters when the time came. But for now... this was more than enough.

The time-traveler gave a light chuckle, her purrs returning as her other arm held her omega. “Heh... I didn’t think I would be good at this.”

“You’re amazing,” Ollie said, voice slightly slurred as she began to purr along with her.

Chuckling some more, Ame continued to hold her, whispering in her ear. “You let me know when you want to leave. I’m in no rush. We can stay in here as long as you like.” She hugged her a little tighter. “And don’t worry about the date... There’s always next year.”

...The zombie could almost mewl from the certainty the detective seemed to have that they would be able to try again then. That they would still be together. That she trusted her enough to try and make a good experience once more.

She let that fade into the background, though, as they continued to lie there in that private room. They both knew they would have to leave eventually and face their no-doubt still concerned friends. She also knew that... what happened was going to stick with her. It was going to haunt her for a long time, and she did not look forward to finding out how it would affect her.

But for now... they just enjoyed this moment of safety. In knowing, more than ever now, that no matter what the situation was... they could always rely on each other to protect them.