Chapter Text
Kim Mingyu set his eyes on Jeon Wonwoo the second their gaze locked together.
After that day, the athlete was unable to get the omega out of his head, so he made the promise to win him over.
No matter what.
He did though, only after months of chasing.
Thanks to someone who played too hard to get.
Sometimes, the couple like to reminisce these moments, like a tribute for their burning love...
❀
YEAR 1 - Fall semester.
"At what time do I need to come?"
"Let's meet at five fifty? They will be in the middle of practice, it's perfect."
Wonwoo frowned, looking at his friend. "Why fifty? Does something particular happen or..?"
"It's right before break time, they're most likely to be drenched in sweat, so... quite an uncomfortable situation if you know what I mean," Miyeon winked playfully.
"Okay, got it," the omega chuckled at her antics.
"Maybe you can also do some searching for yourself. Just saying," shrugged the beta as she picked her bag from the floor, before swinging it on her shoulder.
"Yeah, as if I'll ever be with an alpha. You're funny," answered Wonwoo like it was the most obvious thing.
Miyeon only shook her head, amused, before saying something about him being too cold-hearted again. The two then bid their temporary goodbyes as they part ways for their next class. Wonwoo keeps on thinking about his friend's idea and its target. Sometimes, he wonders if following Miyeon or Soonyoung's craziness also makes him crazy. Why are they even friends? Wonwoo only enrolled at Chonnam University last spring semester, and got familiar with these two in no time. Not that he complains about it. On the contrary, he's rather relieved. To say the least, they might become his first true friends if they continue seeing each other, which will highly happen.
Before this year, Wonwoo was always seen as the cold and strange guy in every stage of life. Although he already was the quiet one during childhood, his parent's affection was the only thing that could make him pretend to be carefree, like all the other kids... but that facade broke completetely when his dear mother passed away.
This event caused an irreversible change in his behavior and relation with the world.
Wonwoo completely shut down for a long time, refusing any act of kindness or friendship, and that would make him odder everywhere he went. However, as time passed by, he naturally softened, learning how to let people in again, thanks to his father.
Far away could've been the bright days, but Wonwoo thrives resilience. He wants to get better.
Still, scars don't fade.
Now, his biggest fear is to get abandoned once again. That's why Wonwoo doesn't want to let a love as strong as his mother enter his life once again.
A friendship like Miyeon or Soonyoung is more than enough. There's no need to go further.
He was fifteen.
"That's it for today's class. Be careful on the way home, and see you next time," concluded the economic teacher, clasping his hands together.
"Thank you for your hard work," saluted the students as they packed their bags.
Wonwoo waited for his alpha friend by the door, until the blond finally came into view, a tiger smile plastered on his face as always.
"Ready to go?"
"Sorry, I didn't tell you that I need to join Miyeon. She wants us to see the football team."
"Ew, why?" grimaced Soonyoung, walking alongside. "Don't tell me it's her crush?"
"It is."
"And why do you have to be there?""
"Emotional support?" hesitated Wonwoo. "You know, just in case the guy talks to her and she doesn't know what to do."
"Will you rescue her, tho?"
"Not really."
The alpha chuckled, putting a hand on his shoulder as a sign of affection. Wonwoo lets him do that, because he trusts him. Soonyoung has proven with time that he wasn't interested in courting the glass-eyed boy, at all. It may sound absurd to some students, but a genuine alpha-omega friendship exists, and these two are the living proof.
"Well, see you tomorrow I guess? And don't forget about the council meeting Friday, we need you," reminded the blond.
"Don't worry, I'll bring my laptop," reassured Wonwoo.
"Good. Remember, one mistake and you won't get elected as the next president."
"Got it, mister dictator."
"Fuck you." Soonyoung went for a punch on his arm which Wonwoo avoided. "I could fire you right now."
"Abuse of power. You could get stripped from your title, be careful."
The blond sighed, playfully pinching the bridge of his nose. "You tire me. Good thing you join Miyeon, I'm done with you for today." He then made a hand gesture, ushering him to leave. "Go, go."
Wonwoo grinned, amused by their dynamic, as he waved goodbye to his friend. Checking the time, he quicky walks until the football field entrance, where his friend is already waiting for him.
"Ready to feast your eyes?"
"What's even his name?" asked back the omega.
"Kim Seokmin, apparently."
"So you're not sure."
"It's a crush, can you blame me?"
They both walk to the stands, making sure to not let their presence be too obvious. To be honest, Wonwoo doesn't really mind being here. He just deems this experience as entertaining, since they're only here for Miyeon, in the end. It's not like he's trying to find a suitor too. He’s better off alone, anyway. There’s no way he's gonna get any alpha soon. Just the thought of it gives him chills.
The whistle suddenly blows.
Their seats are not far away from the terrain, thus, the view is quite detailed on all the athletes currently running on the grass. Miyeon smiles in anticipation, while the omega respectfully fakes his interest. All these men driven by testosterones kind of disgust him. Of course, they all must be alphas.
An omega by nature has to mate with one, but in the case of Wonwoo, the idea is quite displeasing. As of now, either he goes out with a beta, or he stays single. Maybe one day, he'll find a suitable alpha, but he doesn't trust any of them when it comes to love.
"Where is he? Your crush," he probed to his friend.
"Number 60. Can you see him? He's over there," Miyeon clarified as she secretly points her finger.
"Kinda."
The whistle blows again, signaling break time. The beta squirms from excitment, making Wonwoo giggle at her reaction. Soon, very soon, bare torsos full of sweaty muscles are about to get revealed to the world. The glass-eyed boy hears the coach telling them to rest on the side as the cheerleading team needs to practice on the field too, for a bit. Obviously, the direction they decided to take is towards the two friends. At this moment, Miyeon is almost hyperventilating on spot.
She grabs Wonwoo's hand, stomping her feet on the ground like a little child.
"They're coming, they're coming!" she whispered-shouted.
"Everything's gonna be fine, I promise," sighed the omega, feeling amused.
"What should I do?"
"Only act natural, it's not like he's gonna talk to you anyway."
Progressively, a few set of eyes land on the duo, without giving them too much importance. 'They must be used to it' thought Wonwoo. He sees the infamous Kim Seokmin taking off his shirt, exposing his toned chest in front of Miyeon's passionate gaze. That man is indeed built nicely. Soon, he's followed by other players, and suddenly, the omega feels uneasy. It's like witnessing some kind of unwanted cocky strip show. He's not too fond about it.
However, something feels off.
It feels like he's being watched.
As soon as the thought came, his eyes land on someone in particular.
All of a sudden, the world seems to stop.
Everything around him becomes a blur.
Who... is he?
Tall physique. Tanned skin. Mid-length brunette hair. Almond-shaped eyes. Perfectly sculpted face. Juvenile features... and muscles bulging out of that body.
He swears he saw men as handsome as him before, so why is this guy standing out? Why does he sense some kind of pull towards him?
This is absurd, they don't even know each other. Hell, they never crossed paths until now.
From what he's seeing, the athlete is also focused on him. Only him.
Neither of them move, nor speak.
Just what is this feeling..? Why is his stomach churning like that?
"Wonwoo! Earth to Wonwoo!"
He immediately snapped out of this weird trance by Miyeon's hand waving in front of him.
"Huh?"
"What were you looking at?"
"Um, nothing."
She follows his previous gaze, landing on the man who's still staring at him.
"Why are you... Wonwoo, do you know him?" she hesitantly asked.
The latter frowned then shook his head no. There's no need to make a fuss about it, he just got distracted for a bit, only because the guy is handsome. That's it. "Don't worry, I was just lost in thoughts," he simply answered.
"Oh shit, Seokmin is talking to him!" she whispered, holding his arm from the adrenaline.
Indeed, the two are conversing. Sometimes, both of their gaze drift on him, making the omega self-aware. Suddenly, the face of the tallest enlightens, and Wonwoo finds himself deeply hypnotized by this canine puppy-like smile. How can someone have all these boyish traits contrasting with a muscular body like this? Is that what makes someone so charismatic?
"They're looking at us, Wonwoo! We caught their attention," giggled Miyeon.
He doesn't answer right away, too immersed in erratic thoughts. Why did they make such eye-contact? Was there something on his face? Or did he do something strange in the past? The infamous Seokmin seems deeply focused on hearing what his friend has to say, while the latter has a... coy smirk adoring his lips? The hell is he making that face for, all while glancing at him? Deep down, Wonwoo has a clear idea why, but he doesn't want to aknowledge it.
Otherwise, he'd be annoyed very quickly.
The whistle blows again, and the athletes put their shirt back on. The tallest looks in his direction one last time before going back to practice, while this Lee Seokmin guy gives him a slight smile. What the..? What’s their problem?
He swears the following events won't augure nothing good. If these two are acting like this on the first encounter, this can only mean trouble.
Especially that tall guy.
Maybe it'd be best to avoid them in the near future. That way, he won't have to think too much about it.
❀
"So... how was it?"
Soonyoung sipped his coffee, very interested in his friends’ feedback, especially Wonwoo's. In fact, he kept on messaging endlessly with Miyeon last night, right after she came back from her sightseeing. Thus, he got quite an idea of what happened with a certain someone. He just wants to hear him say it.
"Fine."
The alpha looks at him intensively, as in instructing to go on. "And..?"
"And what."
"And someone got their eyes on you," carelessly completed Miyeon.
"This... is not true at all," reprimanded Wonwoo.
"He kept on staring at you, even when practicing," deadpanned the beta. "I don't even got to explain further, and don't tell me he didn't, or that it was unintentional. Not when his head almost made a 180° at times."
Soonyoung chuckled, picturing the scene in his mind. "So... apparently, it's a very tall and tanned guy, with a puppy smile."
"Huh? How do you...," faltered Wonwoo. He then looked at Miyeon who, in return, gave a tight smile full of fake guilt. "You snitch."
"Girl, how did you expect me not to tell him? The original plan was to know more about my crush, but instead, it is you who found your future boyfriend."
"Future nobody," corrected the omega.
"His name is Kim Mingyu."
Wonwoo looked at Soonyoung, mind suddenly in a full focus mode.
"Yeah, that's what he told me yesterday. Apparently he got enrolled here last semester, just like us. He's kind of becoming a big thing here too," nodded Miyeon in approval.
"Did you stalk him?" frowned the omega, as he took a sip.
"I'm the council president, of course I know everyone here, or at least, the majority," developed Soonyoung.
"In which department is he studying?" asked the beta.
"Guess from what you saw."
Miyeon immediately responded, more than confident. "Of course, it is Health and Sports. Makes sense." She then looked at his friend with a witty smirk. "Congrats, you just found yourself a manly rich jock alpha boyfriend, baby."
Wonwoo quickly made a repulsed face. "We just saw each other once, and there's no way in hell I'm gonna be with someone like that." He was very set on this idea. No man, no restriction. He's simply comfortable being free. "This is so ridiculous, we didn't even talk!"
Soonyoung rose his eyebrows, now looking past his friends. "Well, problem solved. I think."
Both don't even have the time to react that two tall figures make their appearance in front of them, much to Miyeon's pleasure.
Kim Seokmin and Kim Mingyu are here.
Wonwoo is almost frozen on spot. There it goes again, that stupid feeling in the pit of his stomach. The same from yesterday. Is it the coffee? Maybe he has trouble digesting his lunch, this time. Yeah, that must be it... but the way Mingyu is looking at him makes him think otherwise.
These deep and dark orbs.
"Hey, sorry to interrupt you guys, but you are the student council president, right?" Seokmin said towards the blond.
"Yep, it's me. Why?"
"I have a request to make for our football team, sorry to speak on behalf of our captain but he's absent today, unfortunately."
"Choi Seungcheol?"
"Exactly."
"No worries, I'm listening." The alpha answered, offering his tiger signature smile.
Definitely curious about the matter, Miyeon slowly moves her chair closer to Soonyoung without uttering a single word. Leaving Wonwoo alone with a Kim Mingyu now staring at him, lips curved into a charming and devastating grin. At this moment, the omega doesn't know if she did it for Seokmin, or for this man. That witch.
"Hey, how's it going?"
What.
Did he hear wrong or his voice is a perfect mix of velvety and rough?
Fuck. This weird sensation, once again.
"Um, good..?"
The athlete extended his hand towards him, still wearing his canine smile. "I'm Kim Mingyu, by the way. Nice to meet you."
He hesitatedly returned the gesture, unsure on how to react. "I'm Jeon Wonwoo." Suddenly, he feels flustered when the alpha keeps their hands clenched longer than necessary, and when he finally lets go, the poor omega doesn't know where to place it again.
"Very nice name..."
Okay..? "Um, thank you."
"I saw you yesterday, at our football practice."
Of course.
What can he respond to that? He can't expose his friend, nor say they were simply there to pass time. It'd be an obvious lie, and this man seems like he's used to being observed like this.
"Well, I was only-"
"It's your friend, right?"
"Sorry?"
"That girl, she made you accompany her, am I right?"
The silence Wonwoo gives him is enough for an answer. Mingyu smiles in triumph, proud to have figured out the omega's overall personality in just a few seconds. The latter tries to ignore him, not having much to add. He should just give the cold shoulder, that's his best defense in uncomfortable situations like this. However, the athlete doesn't seems to take the hint as he stepped closer to his chair.
If he had cat fur, it'd be undoubtdly standing on end right now.
"You're pretty."
Huh.
Poor Jeon Wonwoo's mind stops abruptly.
No longer found in the system.
"E-Excuse me..?"
"I said you're really pretty," Mingyu confidently repeated, the flirty smirk still not leaving his lips. "Why? Is it the first time someone tells you that?"
"Um, I don't know..?" What is happening, he didn't expect the alpha to be so straightforward. Now, he's trying to prevent his cheeks from reddening.
"I hope not. I need to be the first one to say it."
Is this guy crazy? How can he be so bold? Wonwoo should calm his hormones down, he's not someone he can flirt with so easily. "With all respect, what does give you the right to say this?"
"If I say I want to get to know you more, is that enough?"
"If I say I'm not interested, will you back off?"
To this, Mingyu's smirk only grew wider. Seeing the omega's wary expression, now ressembling a black cat on edge, he almost bites his lip from fondness and excitement. At the same time, Seokmin joins him back, done with his own conversation. As he puts a hand on his shoulder to notify his presence, the tallest takes a step back, not leaving Wonwoo's gaze for a second.
"Hey man, we need to go, are you ready?"
"Of course."
Before exiting the scene, he ensured to speak one last time, loud and clear, so that his statement could be made for the whole world to hear.
"You're very intriguing, Jeon Wonwoo. Wait and see, this is just the beginning."
❀
Kim Mingyu is a twenty years old alpha, starting to make a name for himself as the newly recruited football player of Chonnam University. His skills are as good as his looks: flawless, uncomparable, and out of this world. Skipping a grade when he was younger as he prefered reading in the library instead of attending class, he was the pride of his parents. With time, friends also started gravitating around his aura, asking to partner up for projects, eating lunch together, join the sports team, and obviously, be their boyfriend. Everyone wanted a piece of Kim Mingyu in their life, as if it was some sort of accomplishment.
Therefore, the alpha got everything in his life to feel complete.
Almost.
He needs a soulmate. The one he'll spend the rest of his life with.
Before entering Chonnam University, Mingyu never felt anything for anyone. No love involved in his many sexual intercourses. This chronic pattern constantly left a sensitive void every morning.
He craves the feeling of having a mate in his arms, someone he can protect and care for everyday.
Nameless bed partners and pointless nights made him hopeless.
Until now.
The moment Kim Mingyu saw Jeon Wonwoo in the stadium, he felt it.
This overwhelming turmoil in his stomach that his mother always described to him. The way his whole vision suddenly blurs, how he is unable to process anything for a moment. How he can easily declare that no one else will tempt him anymore. This unbeatable attraction that leaves no doubt.
Now he can confidently say that he found him, his true mate.
"Seokmin."
"What?"
"It's him."
"Who?"
The shorter alpha follows his gaze, landing on two figures seated in the stands.
"The cute guy with glasses?"
Mingyu unintentionally growled in displeasure. "Don't call him that."
"The fuck, dude?" Seokmin was particularly confused in this moment. His friend was never defensive nor possessive about his hookups, or partners. Especially not a stranger. This can only mean something. "Okay, I think you found him, indeed. You'd never act like that, otherwise."
"Sorry, it just came out naturally." The tallest didn't have the time to understand what was happening, but one thing was certain: he needed to get this boy as soon as possible. "I can't believe he's here, fucking finally... I waited so long for this moment," he smiled feeling so overwhelmed.
"Don't worry, I know, man."
"Just look at him... The way he adjusts his glasses, or simply his face... God, he's so cute."
"I won't say anything if I want to stay in one piece."
"Do you think he's also feeling what I feel?"
"Probably, Joshua told me he felt our attraction the second we locked eyes too."
"You're right... He's also focusing on me, and me only," he smirked. "He seems flustered."
"Maybe because you're shirtless?"
"No, I can feel I'm also the only one for him."
Seokmin keeps his mouth shut, not wanting to upset his friend by saying he might be too confident. Indeed, due to beauty privilege, the latter has made an arrogant personality for himself. Everywhere he goes, he effortlessly gets what he wants. He just has to flash his canine smile, or ask one time, and everyone will be at his service. This is the only thing that could play in his disadvantage the day he'll find his soulmate, which is currently happening.
"Do you want to talk to him, or..?"
"No. First, I want to do some investigation."
"Dude."
"I have connections. By tomorrow, I will learn everything there is to know about my mate."
"You're fucking crazy?"
"He's my destined partner, of course I'm gonna be a total psycho."
"Good thing you acknowledge it, I guess..."
"You'll see, man. By the end of the week we'll be together."
❀
"No."
"No? What do you mean, no?"
"Is it an unknown word for you? Then, let me clarify it, this means I won't go out with you," stated the omega.
Mingyu almost fell on the spot. This was not the answer he was expecting. Usually, every omega, every girl, would happily say yes.
"Given your reaction, maybe I don't speak Korean very well," frowned Wonwoo.
"No, it's just... Hey, how can you say no? We're meant to be, obviously," frowned Mingyu too.
What the f…
"Do you say this to everyone you want to sleep with?"
"Of course not!" immediately rebutted the alpha. "How can you say that when you also know we're soulmates?"
For a few seconds, the glass-eyed boy seemed stunned, before gaining back his composure. "I can't believe you're throwing this so carelessly...", he sighed disappointedly.
As he started walking away, the alpha took his wrist, which officialized their first physical contact ever. Both of them instantly jolted, feeling an electric spark cursing through their veins. Wonwoo widened his eyes, not believing for a moment this was real. A simple static shock can't do this, but the omega wants to be in denial. He needs to refute it. This narcisstic alpha can't be his true mate. All his life he feared that idea, and now that it may be true, there's no way in hell he'll accept it.
"Believe me, I'm your partner. I won't ever joke about it," affirmed Mingyu on a stern tone.
"How many hookups did you have until now?"
"It doesn't matter, because you're the only one that counts."
"So a lot."
"Hey, it's not fair. That was before I met you."
"I never said anything bad about it. It's you who's being wary."
Mingyu refrains himself from sighing in exasperation. If only he could shut that mouth with a kiss, everything will be fine.
"Give me one chance to prove myself, I swear I'm worth it. Nobody ever complained about me. I'm a perfect catch, princess," he added with a witty smirk. Might as well use his best flirting tactics.
Wonwoo's lips instantly curved in a disgusted scowl. "I can't believe what I'm hearing. Don't ever call me that."
"Why? You're pretty, you're destined to be mine, and I feel like you'll be very cuddly when we'll be alone," said Mingyu with more conviction than needed.
"I... God, you're so full of yourself. I will never be yours, do you hear me? Especially not with that awful personality."
"Well, too bad, I'm sorry you have to accept your boyfriend for who he is," shrugged the alpha.
"My boyf-," Wonwoo stopped himself from continuing further, as if the word could poison his tongue. "Let's just end things here. Never talk to me again."
He started walking again, not caring if his wrist could be grabbed once more, or if this vulgar man blocks his path, which the latter is currently doing.
"Not a chance. I can't give up on pursuing my soulmate."
"We're not meant to be. Stop it. Now get out of my way."
"Not until you agree on a date together," smirked Mingyu coyly.
"I'd rather die."
"Then I'll kiss you before your last breath."
"Fucking hell! You'll always have something to say, don't you?" Wonwoo raised his voice, a mix of annoyance and something like... amusement? but he refuses to aknowledge it.
"Like I said, this is who I am. You'd better get prepared to handle all of me. I may be too intense for you, princess."
"Please God, give me the strength..."
This the third time Mingyu tries to get closer to the omega, and the third time he gets dismissed, but he will never give up. Never. As tiring as it may be.
Just for this time, he'll let Wonwoo get away with it. Next week, he'll ask him out again. One day, his destined mate will finally say yes, he's sure of it.
❀
YEAR 2 - Spring semester.
The new year has begun, which also means new management inside the school. Indeed, Soonyoung has decided to step down from his student council president title, leaving the spot empty to fill. After a round of votes, as expected, he was glad to see his friend replacing him. Thanks to his capacity of achieving everythine he does, Wonwoo is now in control of the students' lifetsyle, a whole brand new challenge he's excited to take up. Even with a personality so unwavering, the alpha is happy to see that people put their trust in him.
Now, the omega has to organize his first event ever, and this is where Kim Seokmin played a big part.
Last semester, he requested Soonyoung to organize an event for the football team.
Some sort of festival where only the members will perform. Next, half of the incomes from the foodtrucks and different booths will be given to them. That way, they'll be able to afford a trip for the next vacation.
This is an interesting project, however, to carry it out properly, Wonwoo has to partner up with them... but it should be fine since only the captain has to work with him, right?
"You're looking for Seungcheol?"
"If he's here, of course."
"Absolutely, let me get him for you."
The alpha named Jaehyun immediately ran off to the cafeteria where all his teammates are eating. The glass-eyed boy waits by the door outside, until the anticipated figure comes into view. Wonwoo still thinks the man looks like a big cherry, or a camel.
"Sorry, I got too immersed in my thesis. Did you wait for long?" asked the brunette in a deep voice.
"Don't worry, only two minutes."
"Then, shall we go?" He pointed towards the park. "Since the weather's good, let's work outside."
"Sounds good."
Both are about to leave the cafeteria entrance when another person suddenly prevents them from doing so. Seungcheol internally sighs, knowing why he came to block them.
"Mingyu, is there a problem?"
"So it's true, you two are working together."
"I thought it was obvious considering I'm the captain," he simply answered. "Do you have anything to say about it?"
"Yes. Can I talk with Wonwoo hyung?"
"For what?" inquired the omega, brows furrowed.
Mingyu immediately faced him, looking more serious than ever. "It's gonna be quick."
"Are you gonna say that I need to be careful because you don't want me close to an alpha?" said Wonwoo dully.
"Well-"
"We're not together, stop acting like it."
"It's only a matter of time, so you should start acting like it," scowled Mingyu.
"Let's just go, Seungcheol. I can't anymore with this idiot," exhaled Wonwoo, feeling truly annoyed.
"Don't you dare walk on me with another man!"
"Plot twist. I'm doing it," grumbled Wonwoo, on the verge of rolling his eyes.
Even with the tall athlete's protests, the duo walks to the park, leaving an angry and dumbfounded Mingyu behind. Truth is, the latter wouldn't dare to do anything towards his captain, as Choi Seungcheol is someone he looks up to. However, seeing his mate with someone else still frustrates him as, even six months after their first encounter, he didn't succeed in having Wonwoo by his side, yet. After trying so hard during the first weeks, Mingyu decided to slow down a bit to give him space, without forgetting his goal. He thought that would make the omega come to him naturally faster, but in the end, things didn't budge at all.
What keeps the athlete determined to get Wonwoo's heart is simple: everytime they talk or see each other, his inner alpha feels this undeniable pull towards the glass-eyed boy. This pull that constantly reminds him: 'He is my fated one'.
What makes him relentless is that he can see Wonwoo feeling the same. Gestures and emotions don't lie. So why does he keep denying him? Why can't he succumb to his destiny? Why does he have to complicate everything instead of being in Mingyu's arms, right where he should belong?
God, this boy is driving the athlete's insane.
After talking, planning and debating for thirty minutes, the football captain and the council president are finally done with their meeting. Wonwoo sighs in satisfaction as he gathers his stuff before packing up. He was about to bid his goodbye and walk away, until Seungcheol changed his plans.
"Do you have anything to do after?"
"Not really, just going home, why?"
"I wanna buy you a meal as a sign of gratitude, for everything you've been doing so far," explained the alpha, a gentle smile on his face.
"O-Oh, you really don't have to, it's fine!"
"I insist, but only if you have time, tho."
Thinking about it, Wonwoo slowly grinned back at the captain. "Okay, I'll follow you, then. Thanks so much, Seungcheol."
"This is the least I can do, of course."
At this moment, Choi Seungcheol doesn't really care if the shithead, who's also his teammate, sees them together. He's free to do whatever he wants and got no interest in the omega at all. Despite that, he cares about Mingyu a lot, and the latter almost rent or talk about Wonwoo twenty four seven, as the matter of not being with him is really getting to his head. He's on the verge of losing his whole damn mind.
After entering the nearest convenience store and paying for both their dinner, Seungcheol sits with Wonwoo outside, unwrapping his onigri while looking at the sun setting.
"What do you think about Mingyu?"
For a moment, Wonwoo looked a bit taken aback before slightly squinting. "Did he ask you?"
"Not at all, this is my own free will," genuinely answered the alpha. "I'm simply curious to know your point of view, since you don't seem to express it."
"Well, there must be a reason behind it, don't you think?" retorted Wonwoo, tone a bit colder than anticipated.
"That's what I thought, and that's why I won't pry further. I just want to know your opinion on him. An honest one. He may be a big dumbass, but he's my friend before anything else," explained Seungcheol. "Though his way of flirting is lame as fuck."
The omega chuckled for a bit, then pondered the question thoroughly. Is confiding himself in that man the right thing? For some reason, Wonwoo might just risk it. "Will you tell him afterwards?"
"Never. What happens here stays here."
Hearing this and feeling a tad relieved, Wonwoo sighed again. "The thing is... deep down, I know he's my soulmate too. I'm just too scared to trust him. It's not like I don't want to, I simply can't."
This is the first time he acknowledges out loud his link with the athlete. Now, he's scared the latter could be currently eavesdropping everything. That won't be a surprise, anyway.
Seungcheol nods his head, happy that the omega opened up to him. He felt that doing so might be difficult, since he appears as someone very introvert and secretive.
"Why is it impossible for you?"
"Because... things occured in my life and I can't see myself being with an alpha for now. Especially someone as ardent as Mingyu. I need time to put any trust in love, even though I'm unsure when it could happen."
"I won't ask the reasons why, but I will only say that this idiot has a really good heart. He can be very fucking stupid at times, but if he acts that way with you, it's because this is the only method he knows for flirting."
"I guessed so."
"Yep, as you can see, he's an arrogant bastard who always got everything he wanted, so he doesn't really know rejection. I mean, until he met you. That's why I think he has humbled a bit for the past six months," chuckled Seungcheol. "To be honest, I never met someone so persistent in my whole life, but that shows how he's serious about you."
Wonwoo squinted his eyes again. "Are you sure he didn't send you?"
"Actually, I'm not really defending his case, I just wanna make you see things differently. Don't worry, I also talked to him, more sternly tho. I just want to know if there’s any way you'd give him a chance."
"Why does it matter to you?" frowned the omega.
"Because you confirmed to me that you feel the same attraction. You're just not ready, so maybe what you need is to let him change your mind. Have you ever been in a relationship before?"
Wonwoo knows exactly where he's going with this, and honestly, he's not totally wrong for taking this path. He just doesn't want to admit it. So, his eyes avoids the alpha's gaze, now looking in front of him.
"I'm correct, then. Mingyu is behaving so stupidly because he's desperate to be with you, or at least have a date together. There is no doubt that once he'll get it, his mind will be at ease and he won't act this psychotic anymore. At least, that's what I hope."
"So you're forcing me to accept him so he can get off my back?"
"Not forcing you, just highly recommending you," smiled Seungcheol, a tiny coyness on his lips.
"I see why you're friends now," disapproved Wonwoo.
"So what do you say?"
The omega knows that judging his soulmate like this is unfair, but how can he not, when the latter is so unbearable with his behavior? On the other hand, a date is only meant to last for an hour or two. This isn't what will kill him, right? So... maybe he should give Mingyu the benefit of the doubt.
If they're truly destined to be together, the experience should be fine. Otherwise, Wonwoo will be convinced they're incompatible. Therefore, it will be pointless to continue further, and he won't hesitate to let the athlete know if so.
"Maybe you're right."
❀
It was on a Wednesday. Instead of the usual council reunion, the president had to organize one last meeting before the football event. Nothing particular since he's been having these appointments for the last two weeks. Thus, this is completely normal for him to wait by the main gate of the university until the captain arrives. He checks his watch: 4:59PM. Seungcheol will be here in a few seconds.
However, this isn't the expected person who appears before him. Not at all.
Well.
He should have known this day would happen.
"Mingyu."
In fact, he's suprised this didn't occur sooner, seeing the man's personality.
"Hey, princess."
"Okay, bye."
He starts to leave but his wrist gets taken by a larger hand.
"Wait, don't leave. I'm here instead of hyung," hurriedly panicked the athlete.
"Thanks. I figured. Just never call me that."
"I promise I won't do it during the meeting," assured Mingyu.
"Because you think that's still happening?" frowned Wonwoo.
"Well, it's kinda necessary since this is the last one..?" he shrugged, unsure of his answer.
Wonwoo sighed, knowing well the point is totally valid. Moreover, recalling what he said to the captain two weeks ago, he made up his mind about giving Mingyu a 'chance'. So, today won't really count as a date, but it'll be similar. He supposes that should be enough.
"Okay, then follow me to the library."
Mingyu's face immediately lightens up, almost dazzling the omega on the spot. Fuck. It should be illegal to be this handsome. "Really? Oh shit, that's awesome- I mean, I'm happy you didn't reject me!"
"Wait, let me correct you. This isn't me agreeing to be your boyfriend. This is me having a simple professional meeting," rectified Wonwoo sternly.
"Yeah, I know. Don't worry hyung. Just, not the library, okay? Let me take you somewhere else," smiled the alpha.
"Did you hear what I said?"
"Of course, but that place is too boring. I think we'll be better in a café."
The omega wants to refute, but there's no actual counterargument to the idea. "Let's go, then. Lead the way."
At the moment, the athlete couldn't be happier. His soulmate just consented his presence by his side, and even agreed on his proposition. After months and months of trying, simply holding on a tiny bit of approval makes him feel complete. He suddenly has the urge to take Wonwoo's hand until they reach the place, but Mingyu thought it'd be better to not do it. He can't take a step forward and two steps back.
The duo took about five minutes of walk to reach the coffee shop inside the campus, and during that time, the alpha succeeded in making casual small talk with the council president, as if no awkwardness has ever existed. Now, right after ordering, and Mingyu paying for his beloved, they settled on a two-seat table.
"Thanks for the drink."
"It's the least I could do since I made you come here," smiled the athlete. "So, what do we have to do? Seungcheol hyung explained to me a lot of things, but I still want to be sure."
"Yeah, right. I totally forgot the most important question. Why are you here instead of him?" asked Wonwoo neutrally.
"He was sick..?"
"This is the only lie you could find? I'm quite... disappointed," he humorlessly mocked. "At least, try to be honest."
"Okay, if you want honesty, I begged him to let me see you."
"You already do that almost every day," Wonwoo rose one eyebrow.
"Not in this context. I wanted to be at peace with you, not just a simple hello by the courtyard," frowned Mingyu to show his sincerity.
"I see..."
"You don't believe me?"
"I do. It's okay, actually. I understand," oddly said the omega.
"R-Really?"
"Yeah."
He should make some efforts too. If he wants to give Mingyu a shot, he also needs to play fair and by the rules, without being pessimistic or downgrading the alpha's ego. Let him see the athlete's full potential and he might be suprised by the end of this. Otherwise, they'll both have to move on.
"Let's get to work, then," he said as he placed his notebook and laptop on the table. His face morphed into suprise when he saw Mingyu doing the same. "Wait, do you have everything too..?"
"Seungcheol passed it to me this weekend, I had time to skim through the ideas."
"That's... great. I didn't think you were this serious."
"I'm always like this, despite my annoying flirting. Why do you think we're in the same cohort even though I'm one year younger?"
"Um..." Now that he said it, Wonwoo realized he never wondered about this.
"I skipped a year in elementary school, because I prefered spending my time at the library reading books instead of attending class. So, they thought that my skills were more developped than the other kids. Here's why."
"You said that place was boring."
"Guess I got fed up, indeed."
Wonwoo chuckled a bit, making Mingyu's inner alpha beam in joy. Did he make that sound because of him? Only him? The athlete never thought this day would come.
"Anyway... I didn't know that, it's pretty cool, actually."
"You know, people say otherwise. Since it was an elementary school, anyone could have done that, apparently," he shrugged. "But it was a big deal for me at that time, I bragged about it to everyone."
"I see. Guess that personality has always been in you," dully said the omega.
"It can't be helped, I'm afraid," Mingyu genuinely smiled, before taking out his glasses, under the - once again - surprised gaze of Wonwoo. "What?"
"You... have glasses too?"
"Only when there'll be a lot of screen time ahead, otherwise I don't need them." Something about the way his mate keeps on discovering things about him fuels his pride. "Well, now I can confidently say we have something in common," he teased.
Wonwoo doesn't answer right away, his composure too stunned by the alpha's face, now embellished with this pair of Gentle Monster. "They... They look good on you," he finally admitted.
Hold up.
Stop.
Mingyu is on the verge of having a nosebleed.
All these ensuing events are getting too much to handle.
"Oh, thank you, hyung."
By some miracle, his willpower was so strong, it prevented him from assaulting Wonwoo with kisses.
"A-Anyway, let's get to work, like you said. We don't want to waste any time," the omega cleared his throat.
As soon as the words came out, both of them started discussing the final decisions and arrangements made for the festival. It is safe to say that the glass-eyed boy kept on being shocked by the alpah's earnestness, though he didn't show any of it. Wonwoo can't believe this is the exact person who chased after him for the past months. How can someone go from the most annoying insufferable self-centered idiot to an actual smart guy who's truly committed in his tasks without disrupting anything? The transition is too brutal to be real.
Now, Mingyu is almost looking like a suitable partner for Wonwoo...
Almost.
He always thought his type would be someone who could match his vibe... and for the whole working time, the athlete nearly checked all the conditions. Aside from the fact that his beauty is out of this world.
Did he know he had to behave this way?
Did he prepare everything?
Why out of all times, today is the day Mingyu genuinely piques Wonwoo's interest?
This is so not fair...
He knows they're fated mates, and now, the alpha is playing all his best cards to prove its accuracy.
He hopes the latter can't read his mind. He really wishes.
It's the way Mingyu purses his lips when he's focused, or how his dog eyes stays on him while talking. The smart words that come out of his rosy lips, or all the pretty decent advices and remarks added here and there. How they sometimes make brief physical contact, and how Mingyu seems actually flustered about it. The way his large biceps are bulging out of that black tee-shirt, or the way that garment is tracing every line of his perfect pumped chest.
Fuck.
Maybe it is Wonwoo's turn to be in trouble.
"I think this is all for today," he concluded after one hour and a half of work, as he gathered his things. "Thank you for your productivity, Mingyu. That was admirable."
"Pinch me, because I might be in heaven," murmured the alpha. "You praised me so much in less than three hours, it's like you're finally flirting back..."
"Right, this is exactly where I take my leave."
"I'm kidding," he laughed, inconsciously placing a hand on Wonwoo's thigh, which created unexpected butterflies inside the latter's stomach.
"W-Well, now that we've finished working, you're back at your old self?"
"My old self? I've always been like that, hyung. You've just never seen this side of me."
"Okay, then stay as you are now. It makes me wanna punch you less."
"Like you'd do that."
They both went ouside. Above their heads, the sky is on the verge on turning completely dark. It is past 7PM, and the athlete trails behind the council president. In this moment, nobody would be able discern the difference between Mingyu, and a puppy on the heels of his owner.
"I'm capable."
"Do it then," smirked the alpha, arms wide open. "Go on, punch me."
For a moment, Wonwoo takes on the sturdiness of Mingyu's physique again. Shit. He didn't have to flex like that.
After a few seconds, he threw a hit right on the alpha's right pec. As expected, it did nothing, mostly due to the bouncy muscle, and Wonwoo's lack of power compared to Mingyu.
"That's all you've got? Well, can't say I didn't predict it."
"Asshole."
The omega walks forward without saying anything else. "Wait, are you going home?" asked the alpha.
"Isn't this the most logical thing, right now?" frowned Wonwoo, not sparing him a glance.
"Let me take you home."
"Um, no?"
"It's dark."
"And I do this almost everyday."
"But today I'm here, so what do you have to lose?"
"My sanity."
"You are being a drama queen."
Wonwoo's mouth opens in stupefaction. Oh, he did not...
"Anyway, get off my back."
"I've got a car, get in it. You'll get home faster, Wonwoo," said Mingyu in a serious tone.
"So you could see where I live?"
"What if I already know? Either way, it's bound to happen so let's go with the flow."
"Go with the flow?" The omega can't help but smile a little at the expression. "Gosh, you're so...," he trailed, out of words.
"I want to take you home, please..."
Shit.
Wonwoo refrains himself from pursing his lips when Mingyu gives him his puppy eyes. This man really has everything. No wonder he constantly gets what he wants. It's fucking infuriating.
"Okay," he sighed, left with no other options.
"Thank you, hyung!"
They reach the athlete's vehicule, making Wonwoo slightly widen his eyes when he saw 'Porsche' on the hood. Indeed, he clearly doesn't know many things about the man. It's nothing new that the latter comes from a rich family, but seeing it in person is impressive, though Wonwoo couldn't care less about a possible partner's wealth. However, his mind tells him not to show any reaction, as the alpha's ego might swell up again.
The ride to Ttukseom took about twenty minutes, seated on fancy leather, and wrapped in the fresh scent of a brand new car. The omega can't deny this felt quite good, but he shouldn't get used to it. After all, this may be the first and last time Mingyu brings him home. He still hasn't synthesized the last hours spent by his side. It's like he discovered more about him, and on the other hand, learnt nothing at all. The feeling shouldn't be this frustrating.
"Well, here we are," said the tallest.
"Thank you for this. It was... enjoyable, I guess," admitted Wonwoo on a small voice.
"And today was very fun," Mingyu smiled in return.
"Yeah..."
Strangely, Wonwoo doesn't dare to get out. His body refuses to move.
He's in a tiny space, confined with his true mate, and head tormented by mixed emotions. What's happening?
Mingyu seems to notice it, as he attempts placing a hand on his thigh.
"Hey, are you okay?"
"Yes, don't worry..."
Another silence settles between them.
A quietness that Mingyu breaks with his rough and velvet voice.
"W-Wonwoo, I know it might sound redundant, but I still wanna try it one more time."
The omega only looks at him slowly, shyly, apprehensively.
"Do you want to go on a date with me?"
The alpha's heart abnormally thumps in a frenetic pace. His request is nothing new, yet, today was really special, and somehow, it feels like there's a deeper meaning behind it this time. Therefore, another possible rejection could cut his pride sharper than usual. If the scenario repeats itself, he might consider giving up... maybe for a while, or for good.
A man can only take so much.
Plus, the way Wonwoo doesn't give an immediate answer only amplifies the internal chaos.
This silence is excruciating.
He's almost at his breaking point.
Until suddenly, that pretty face gradually morphs into a soft smile.
Oh God...
"Yeah. I'd like to."
...
Holy...
...fuck.
Well.
Guess Mingyu won in life.