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Chapter Text

He finished putting on his reddish Lip gloss with sparkles on his lips. He believed in the idea that you can never have enough shine, especially when you're about to board a plane headed straight into uncharted territory and you want to make sure you maintain your essence.

When he finished, he simply put him makeup set in him toiletry bag to later put it inside him suitcase. The door to him room opened, revealing him mother, who caught him attention.

-Son, have you finished getting ready? You're getting late and your father is already waiting for you.

-I'm ready mom, I'm just packing a few last things. - He replied, taking down the large pastel pink suitcase from the bed.

His mother, looking at him as if it were the last time she would see him, came over and hugged him tightly. It was not easy to say goodbye to a son, even for a short time, and they were a very close family.

NuNew smiled reciprocating the hug, it wasn't easy for him to say goodbye either, but it was something he had to do if he wanted to take advantage of all the opportunities that he had worked so hard to achieve.

-Nu... -The door opened, interrupting the moment, Nunew had an older brother, who was also waiting to say goodbye to his little brother. -Mom, if you keep holding on, it will be more difficult to let go.

His older brother was an alpha, who had grown up with the goal of being the protector of his family and with it also being the next head of the family.

-Okay dear, we're going down. -The woman responded, wiping the tears that escaped from her eyes during the emotional hug. Nunew smiled at him, she had to trust that his son would be okay.

-

The ride to the airport was moderately lively, between his father's questions about his next accommodation, his mother's advice on surviving away from home, and his brother's warnings about not associating with “depraved” alphas.

Upon arrival and about to board the plane the last pieces of advice were said.

-Your brother is right, son. -His father assured. -I don't want to find out that you're dating an alpha with no future. You're going to achieve your goals, not look for love affairs.

- Dad! -The omega, tired of that speech, interrupted the older man. -You don't have to worry about that, I know what I'm going for and until now I don't think there is anyone who can distract me from dedicating myself 100% to studying. -He finished hitting his chest, totally sure of his words.

-I will pretend that I believe you, but if I find out that someone is bothering you, I will personally go and talk to them, because I know well those pretty-faced alphas who think they can do whatever they want... -His brother mentioned threateningly, being interrupted by his little brother's hug.

-Thanks Tee, I'll call you if I need you to hit someone. -Said the youngest in the middle of the hug. -But I'm sure it won't be necessary. -He stated, letting go. -Besides, I won't be alone, Yim will be my rommate there, and you know... he scares people away when he wants.

Nunew had met Yim months ago. Yim was from the Sword Kingdom but had traveled a few days with other students to the annual Hearts University Fair and it was there that they met; they bumped into each other while walking through the stands, causing Nunew to drop his bag of popcorn. At that event, the two were petrified and Yim promised to get him another one. Since then, they had become inseparable friends, telling each other everything through chat conversations after Yim had to return home.

Passengers bound for the Kingdom of Spades, please board…

-Well, it's time for me to go. -Nunew said, taking his things. -Dad, Mom, I love you both very much, I'll be in touch all the time. Tee, I'm going to miss you bro, but I'll be back in a few months to keep bothering you. -He finished by giving his brother a little tap on the abdomen and hugged his parents tightly.

-We'll talk as soon as you arrive my love, we'll be waiting. -His mother told him in the middle of the hug.

They were a small but united family, where goodbyes were not so common, which is why it was difficult for Nunew to see his mother crying as soon as he had to turn to leave them. It was also strange for him to see his father and brother so sad, but it would only be for a while and he would return, and he also planned to return during his vacation.

As soon as he got on that plane and saw his home slowly disappearing through his window and that was when he felt afraid for the first time, but he had to be strong, he was going to meet a lot of new people on that road and he was also going to meet a new place that would give him new perspectives on the world.

-

So it was that in the blink of an eye he was already in the destined kingdom, with his friend hugging him like a koala.

- NuNew! -Yim Pharinyakorn screamed, hugging him.

-I missed you too Muyim. -Nunew said, corresponding to the hug.

-It's great that you're here, now we're going to be able to go to school together, and go out, and have sleepovers... I already prepared your bed, I'm sure you'll like it. -Yim spoke non-stop, he couldn't hide the excitement of having his friend next to him.

In all the hustle and bustle that his great friend had, Nunew couldn't help but notice how in all that time there was another boy next to them, apparently an alpha, who was wearing dark clothes with green details.

-…Clubs? -It was the first thing Nunew thought when he saw that color.

The boy, seeing that they had already noticed him, made a gesture of greeting with hand.

-He is Tutor, he is a friend and he also lives in the student residence where we will be, and he also comes from outside. -Yim said, interrupting the greeting of his friends and making a funny airplane gesture with his hand.

This last statement made sense to Nunew's thoughts about the boy's origins, however, he wanted to confirm it.

- Do you come from Clubs? -Nunew asked curiously.

-That's how it is. -He confirmed. -I also come for the exchange program and I met Yim in the student stay.

-To give you a great welcome I decided that a big and strong alpha would also come to help you with your luggage. -Yim commented while casually fixing the collar of Nunew's pink coat.

At that comment a silence formed between the three, at least until Yim subtly glanced at Tutor.

-… Are you talking about me? -Tutor asked, pointing his finger at himself.

- Is there another alpha among us? -Yim answered him with irony in his tone of voice.

-Okay, okay, I understand. - The tutor replied, approaching to take Nunew's suitcase, while he laughed at seeing his friends' interaction.

-Come on Nu, you have to get to know our room... and the school... and the country, we have a lot to do. -Yim chattered again as he grabbed his arm and took him after Tutor who was carrying the suitcase.

-

The room was spacious, on one side there were two beds separated by two nightstands, in the back there was a desk with two chairs and in front of them a large window with a blue curtain that blocked the light entering the room. In addition to also having a closet and a dressing table with a mirror in front of the beds. He could also see a door there that indicated it was the bathroom.

Nunew knew where he would sleep when he saw that one of the beds had a pink bedspread, matching a pillow with a cover of the same color. After noticing it, he turned to his friend to give him a big smile of gratitude.

-Be comfortable. -Yim responded to his smile. -Tutor and I will go get some dinner, you can unpack in the meantime. -He said taking the other boy by the arm to finally leave the room.

Nunew carried him suitcase to him bed and looked around, searching for more details in that room that would be him home for the next few months. He already missed his family, so he decided to sit down and send them a message:

“I'm already in the room, Yim prepared my bed :D”

He began to take out some of his things to put in his nightstand, and while he did so he couldn't help but look out the window. What he saw there was perhaps the greatest landscape for a boy who came from afar and went out very little. Picas was beautiful, it was a kingdom full of blue lights and a lot of movement, as if it were a futuristic city from the science fiction movies his brother watched.

Each kingdom had its own particularities; for example, Hearts, his hometown, was full of open spaces, buildings decorated with large arches and ancient constructions made of pink marble… For him, it was a beautiful place, not counting the areas where technological and fashion stores were crowded. But as a young man who had rarely gone out throughout his life –because he did not come from a wealthy family–, going out and getting to know a new city was a rather surprising experience for him. Therefore, he did not know what the other two kingdoms were like, but he had heard that Diamonds was the kingdom of luxury, where the shiny and modern was what stood out the most; and about Clubs, he knew that it was a kingdom where vegetation and green areas gave it identity… he needed to remember to ask Tutor for more details about that later.

He took a photo of the landscape, returned to his bed and sat on the shore from where he uploaded the photo to his Cardstagram stories with the caption “Starting a new life 🥳"

-

He woke up very early, dressed in a white t-shirt and pink overalls that fit him waist giving him a spectacular figure, he put on makeup emphasizing him red lipstick and blush with bright touches, and finally he adjusted him white laces, then he turned around and saw... That Yim was still desperately drying him hair.

“At least he's already dressed” -He thought, encouraging himself, seeing him already in his classic blue clothes.

-Give me a few more minutes Nu, I'm almost ready. -He said now taking him makeup bag out of a drawer in him nightstand. -Beauty costs, it doesn't just dawn. -He continued speaking.

-Ok. -Nunew answered, checking that he loaded everything in his backpack. -So, are we going with Tutor? -Asked.

-Yes, Tutor has a car, so we saved the bus. -Yim responded, putting away him things to go and comb him hair. -Tutor has family here, so that made it easier for him to have a car. -With that said, they heard a knock on the door. -It must be him. -Yim assured. -Hurry Nu, we're running late. -Yim told him, shoving his things into his backpack carelessly.

Nunew put on his backpack and headed with him towards the door, until he realized something...

- Good morning! -Yim exclaimed opening the door...

- Muyim you didn't wear shoes! -Nunew shouted behind him at the same time.

At the scene the door had been opened, and with both boys screaming Tutor immediately looked at Yim's feet, which were only wearing socks.

- Will you excuse us for a moment, Tutor? -Yim said, closing the door until only a small space was left. -It won't take long, we will have to repeat this. -Finally, he closed the door.

-

In the end the mission could be accomplished and the three friends arrived in Tutor's car at the university. Nunew in the back seat couldn't help but look amazed and excited when he saw the majesty of the institution through the window, so much so that he didn't notice when they stopped and his friend called him to get out of the car.

He got out and found what was definitely a new world for him, although from that angle he was only looking at other cars in the parking lot from there he could see how big the building was, and how imposing it looked.

He followed his friends, because Yim would not only show him the facilities, but they shared some classes together and that gave him some relief, because he would not be alone.

His morning passed that way, between his first classes where - fortunately for him - there were more foreign students and that made him feel comfortable, also with walks around the facilities while Yim talked non-stop throughout the entire tour.

Perhaps what made his first day at that institution so special was his visit to the library at the end of his day's classes. His friend still had another class to attend so he decided to go to that place to kill some time until he came out so they could leave together, however, walking through those long hallways was taking him to the unexpected, especially as soon as he heard a conversation between several people. He could have ignored those voices that he could hear among the shelves, but as the phrase from a book he found at the beginning of his journey said: “When the mystery is too impressive, it is impossible to disobey” so he decided to follow the murmurs that little by little became in clearer words.

As he found the route to follow after those voices, the words became more understandable, but he still couldn't give shape to the conversation, at least not until he reached a passage where he could be sure that when he turned into the next hallway he would be there. the source of the mystery.

The problem is that from there what he could understand was no longer so pleasant.

-...laid in the comfort of their homes while their partners go out to get a better life, and that all those omegas who believe they are better than alphas should lose the rights they have achieved. -Said a voice.

He was petrified by what he heard, and unable to contain his anger, he accelerated his pace to reach that voice, without stopping listening to the rest.

- And what did you say? -He heard an older voice ask.

-Sure, give me the papers and right now I'll sign the decree to take away your rights. -The previous voice answered with haste in his voice. But as soon as he finished speaking, Nunew had already arrived at the place, and had identified it.

In the place in question there were three people sitting around one of the library tables, an older man who was wearing a sweater with the logo of the institution, and a badge on which he could read that he was the librarian, apparently it was him. the second person in the conversation. There was also another man in a suit, who seemed to be a professor; and, finally, the person from whom he had heard all those horrible words: A boy noticeably older than him, with a thin face, thin lips, thick eyebrows and a penetrating gaze... “Damn, he must be one of those pretty-faced alphas that my brother hates it so much” he thought. Upon seeing himself exposed to the group of people, he knew that if he had already come this far, he could not be cowed.

"Excuse me..." He began with nervousness in his voice. -If you have those kinds of thoughts about omegas, I honestly think you shouldn't even be in a place like this, because it's clearly of no use to you. -He finished almost feeling like he was getting cold.

-… Sorry? -The young alpha answered, bewildered, and somewhat annoyed.

-What you heard, if that's how you think then you're nothing more than a savage. -Nunew continued answering. -God, after this they will surely send me to meet you. - He thought with fear.

"And what do you know about what I think about the gender of people?" the alpha replied bitterly.

-With what I heard, believe me it is enough. -He answered strongly.

-If we go by that same logic, then you are a gossiping omega who only speaks without knowing. -He responded by crossing his arms, and that made Nunew, if he was already angry, now make his blood boil.

The librarian couldn't have been more shocked at what he was witnessing, but luckily, he acted quickly as soon as he saw Nunew approaching with the intention of hitting the alpha with a backpack, and was able to stop him by grabbing his arms before that happened.

-Let's see son, this is no place for fights. -He told him grabbing it. Nunew did not try to struggle, as he reasoned that he did not want problems since this was his first day, but his fear came as soon as he heard the teacher who was present.

-Okay, I've heard enough. -The professor said, straightening up as he stood up. -Boy, you'll have to accompany me to the supervision office.

Nunew's blood ran cold upon hearing that.

-You too Zee, your position here does not mean that you go beyond the rules. -Said the teacher looking at the other boy.

- But I didn't start! -Zee exclaimed.

-But it can be considered that you disrespected an omega. -The professor indicated, while Nunew behind him stuck his tongue out at the alpha.

Both of them had no choice but to follow their teacher, apparently for Nunew starting his new life in complete peace was not going to be possible.

-Muyim, I had something to attend to in supervision, I will let you know when I leave): -Message sent.

Chapter Text

-I swear supervisor, I have never been so offended in my life. -Zee said in front of the woman. And that comment alone was enough to make Nunew turn to look at him with an expression of extreme bewilderment.

The scene was very simple, both Nunew and Zee were directed to the School Supervision office, politely offered a seat in front of one of the supervising professor´s and questioned about what happened in the library.

How bad was it? -asked the school supervisor, a woman in her 60s, with gray hair neatly combed into a bun and dressed in the school's jacket.

She tilted her face slightly to look at them over her glasses, and before Nunew could even make a sound, Zee continued speaking.

-Absolutely, I was talking very gently with Mr. Oab and Professor Sarit when he appeared and began to slander me. -He said looking at Nunew when he said the last word.

- It isn't true! -Nunew defended himself. -You were talking bad about the omegas and I just told you that you were rude, so you are the one who is slandering me. -Nunew expressed strongly. -Also, you insulted me and called me a “gossiping omega”

- Zee? -asked the surprised supervisor, who was now staring at him dumbfounded. - Is that true? How is that possible?

-Exactly, it's not possible, it's all a confusion on your part, supervisor, you know I'm not that kind of person. -Zee answered with total certainty.

At that moment Nunew was with him arms crossed, avoiding looking at him.

-If I didn't know you, I'd believe it Zee, but I know you're a good boy. -The woman replied and Nunew rolled his eyes.

-I can swear it by all my ancestors, and even by my descendants... if I had one. -Zee responded very confidently, adding a touch of humor to his statement.

-Aha, I hope you never have it because you are a liar . -Nunew thought.

-However, if he feels that I disrespected him in any way, I apologize to him. -Zee added, looking at the omega and joining his hands in apology.

-You are a disgraceful, hateful, lying, stupid alpha... -Nunew thought agitatedly, but decided to just express it with his eyes.

-Very well, if the matter has been clarified, you may return to your activities. -The supervisor spoke, giving her final verdict. -Nunew. -She added, drawing the attention of the aforementioned. -I have been informed that you are new and have come from the exchange program, so I welcome you most cordially to this institution and hope that we will not have any more problems of this kind. If you have any problems, I ask you to inform your advisor.

-Thank you very much. -Nunew responded with a touch of resignation. -And excuse me for this, I can assure you that I am not a problematic student.

-I know that, I have reviewed your file and I am very happy that you are with us. -She answered and a smile formed in Nunew, after all his academic record spoke for him.

At the end of the meeting Nunew left immediately while Zee stayed in the room with the excuse of discussing other matters, which gave Nunew a certain relief to flee as quickly as possible and thus not have to run into each other again with the alpha.

-

- Nunew! -Yim shouted when he saw his friend appear and immediately approached him and looked him over from head to toe as if looking for traces of a crime. He and Tutor were already in the parking lot where they had agreed to meet the omega. - What happened? Why did they take you to supervision? Did they do something to you? Tell me Nu, and Tutor and I will go confront him.

-A stupid, moronic, alpha bastard.... -Nunew replied, with hatred in his words.

- What?! -Yim shouted in fright. -Did an alpha do something to you? Did he touch you? Tell me where that bastard touched you.... I swear, if he wanted to go too far.... - Yim grabbed him by the shoulders looking for answers. - Tutor is going to run him over with his car!

-He didn't touch me. -said Nuevo, finding time to answer Yim's questions, and provoking a sigh of relief in Tutor, who was already imagining himself being arrested for murdering someone. -He spoke ill of the omegas and when I confronted him, he told me I was a gossip and a professor was listening to us.

Yim sighed in relief upon hearing that the situation had not been a serious matter.

-It's good that it was only that because he was also thinking of going to burn down his house. -Yim added causing Tutor to look at him even more scared behind him. - But they didn't give you a report? I would have defended myself too Nu, you did the right thing.

-No, he supposedly apologized and with that they let us go. -He answered with displeasure. -But first he said that I was slandering him. -He added annoyed. - Muyim , let's go home now, I want to go to bed and forget about that stupid guy.

-Nunew. -Tutor interrupted. -I can't run over anyone, or burn down anyone's house, but if someone bothers you, I'm also there for you and you can ask me for help, okay? -He said, approaching and putting a hand on his shoulder, finally in some way or another he had reached them and felt that he wanted to take care of them.

(Especially since Yim was prone to getting arrested)

Nunew smiled at him and nodded, it felt good to start starting a little family.

-

The next day passed calmly, after telling Yim in more detail about the incident, the topic was not raised again because Nunew preferred to act as if nothing had happened and continue with his university life in the most peaceful way.

They attended classes, had breakfast together and in the afternoon Nunew attended his additional general history class, which was decided by him as his main option among others that were offered to him.

He entered the class and found that it was not a crowded group, in fact, besides him, there were about 12 other people, which gave him a feeling of a certain freedom, he was not really that sociable boy, and his introverted side felt at peace.

He took a place near the window after greeting the classmates around him and a few minutes later the professor entered; a man of around 50 years old, friendly looking and noticeably cheerful as he entered and observed his new group.

-Good afternoon guys, my name is Taeng Saksit and this time I will be your history professor. -He said, writing down his details on the blackboard. -As this is an additional subject chosen by yourselves, I hope to see a lot of interest in the topics we will cover, I assure you that the history of how the four great kingdoms were formed is very interesting. -He commented effusively, and observing the group, he paused looking at Nunew, who stood out for his peculiar costume of pink tones. -And from what I see in this class we have students with a diversity of origins, that will enrich our knowledge a lot.

Nunew smiled as he felt taken into account, and immediately thought about how nice it would be to take that class.

At that moment his thoughts were interrupted by the sound of knocking on the door, to which the professor immediately responded; He opened the door and left for a few seconds, during which those present took notes of what was written on the blackboard.

After a few short minutes the man re-entered the classroom, but he did not return alone, but before everyone's attention, another person also entered the room behind the professor.

Seeing who it was, Nunew couldn't curse his luck anymore.

-Guys, we're lucky. -The professor began. -In addition to the diversity of the group, we will also have His Majesty Zee as support for this class. Who, as you know, is pursuing his master's degree, so his knowledge is very valuable to us.

- Are you really boosting his ego by referring to him like that? -Nunew thought in annoyance.

-Thank you very much professor, I hope my presence can be of help to you in the contents. -Zee thanked the older man, and then addressed the group. -Hello everyone, this cycle I will be of support in this class, if you need my help with any topic, do not hesitate to ask me.

Watching the reaction of the students in the group, it became clear to Zee that he had awakened some joy.... Well, at least that was until he came to look at one specific side of the group and his gaze collided with that of the only pink dot in the class, who was staring at him, but unlike his classmates, he wasn't looking at him in such a cheerful manner.....

"Oh my god... " Zee whispered, putting a hand to his forehead.

- Is something wrong your majesty? -The professor asked subtly, approaching him.

-No... I was just observing that we have different students. -He excused himself, looking at the pink boy.

- Oh! You already saw Chawarin . -The professor exclaimed, drawing the attention of the aforementioned. -As you can see, he comes from Hearts, and this time he seems to be our only foreign student.

-Yes, I... I had already seen it. -Zee responded.

- So you two already know each other? -The man questioned.

-Yes, professor... -Zee put his face close to the man's ear with the intention of murmuring something to him, taking care that no one else could hear. -Do you remember what they told you about the incident at the library? Well, he...

-Ah I see, I understood. -The professor interrupted , and pausing briefly, he spoke louder, observing Nunew. -Then it would seem excellent to me if you two work together this cycle.

The reaction of both of them was first to be startled and Nunew couldn't help but stop and protest.

-But professor, I think it would be better for me to work with another colleague, it is good that I integrate and… I don't want to bother. -He excused himself.

-Don't bother Chawarin at all , it will be perfect for you to work together, so you can get to know each other and learn to work as a team, and you will also gain a lot of knowledge that way. -The professor answered.

- Are you sure, professor? This can be counterproductive. -Zee spoke with his arms crossed. -You know, I think that being a foreign student you should better hang out with someone else from your classmates. -He added to prevent anyone from suspecting that something else was happening.

-On the contrary, it will be good for him to pair up with you since he will be able to have a closer knowledge of the Kingdom of Spades... in addition, I already have the first task for you in pairs, but I will give you more details in our next class. -He explained. -For today you can sit down and let's start reviewing the contents. -He pointed his finger towards where Nunew was, who had an empty space on one side. The advantage of being a small group.

Neither protested any further and, resigned, Zee obeyed the order and took a seat next to the omega, who, seeing him approaching, turned to the opposite side.

-We're going to spend this entire class sitting together, you can't act like I don't exist. -Zee told him almost in a whisper, as he settled into his seat.

In response, Nunew moved his seat subtly away from him.

- Are you serious? -Zee responded immediately.

-I'm going to act like you have lice. -Nunew answered.

- Is that your excuse? Because it's totally unreal, do you even know how well I bathe? -He responded, moving his seat closer to him.

- Don't put that image in my mind! -Exclaimed Nunew, avoiding raising his voice and covering his eyes with his hands.

-I'm sure you would like what you would see. -Zee responded, bothering him, and then turned to where the class was taking place.

-Not in your wettest dreams. -whispered Nunew. Zee preferred to avoid answering him, he didn't want another visit to supervision, however, he couldn't help repeating a gesture he already knew from the omega and showed him his tongue before turning around again, causing the smaller one to poke him in the ribs with a pen.

-Ouch! -The alpha exclaimed at the surprising action, drawing the attention of the rest of the people in the room.

-I'm glad you are so cooperative. -The professor said as he looked at them. -I'm sure I'll get very good results from your team during this class. -He said.

At the comment, both readjusted themselves in their places and unanimously remained silent to avoid another embarrassing situation.

In this way, class finally passed peacefully, with them ignoring each other, at least until the end of class.

-

As soon as class ended and the rest of their classmates left the room, they were still ignoring each other. Nunew hurried to put away his things under the gaze of the older man, who broke the silence.

-I guess we'll have to stay in touch. -The alpha commented seriously. -I like the things I do to turn out well.

-You don't even belong to this class, don't bother. -The youngest answered dryly.

-No, I don't belong, but I am a support here, so we have to make a truce and work as a team. -He explained.

-I'm not going to give you my phone number, maybe you're a pervert. -Nunew told him with the intention of sounding derogatory.

His intention had its effect and the alpha looked at him offended. Never in his life had he been accused of something like this, so his immediate response was with the same intention of offense towards the omega who was already about to leave the room.

-Don't be confused, you're not the type of omegas that I like. -He responded coldly.

And Nunew understood: “You are too ugly for my taste”, so after feeling as if something bitter was spilling into his stomach, he slammed his backpack into the alpha’s face and then quickly left the room while cursing internally.

It's not that that comment had made him feel hurt... Maybe it was just the fact that in his adolescence he struggled a lot with feeling unattractive, and adding that the comment was said by that alpha made him feel so... weird.

In his quick walk through the hallways with his thoughts full of intrusive ideas, he did not realize that he was already approaching the outside and he could visualize Tutor at the end of the path, outside the entrance to the building, so he felt the confidence to go. directly towards him and get out what he was feeling.

- Tutor! -He exclaimed, surprising him, since he was answering his phone.

- Nunew! Did something happen to you? -He asked, scared when he saw that the omega had signs of wanting to cry, he could notice it both in the tears accumulated in his eyes and in his broken tone of voice.

-Tutor, why are alphas so horrible? -He asked, and received a look of confusion from his friend -No offense. -He added, realizing the abruptness of his words, his now friend being precisely an alpha.

- Did you meet the rude alpha again? - the tutor asked him, to which Nunew nodded shyly. -Nunew, being a horrible person is not something exclusive to alphas, some people do not have a good education or good emotional management to be able to relate to others. - he explained seeing how the omega's expression softened. -Look, in one of my classes there is a beta who hates me because he hates all alphas, and it is not my fault that he has those ideas so I prefer to ignore him.

-I understand. -Nunew spoke.

-It's the best. -Tutor smiled at him. -If you give it the benefit of affecting you, you are giving it power over you.

-Okay, the best thing for me will be to ignore him and not fall for his provocations. -Nunew responded, wiping away his tears before they overflowed. -I'll tell Yim at home, but without going into details, because you already know how he gets, so please don't tell him about this before. -Nunew asked, wanting to avoid a misfortune.

-Don't worry, I don't want Yim to start a war either. -The tutor replied in an obvious tone of humor. -Now, how about we go find him and return home? -Nunew nodded with more joy.

That talk, although brief, was refreshing for Nunew in that moment of bitterness. At the end of the day, he had to remember his goals and he didn't want an annoying alpha getting in the way of them. Plus, if things got worse, he could still make a call to his brother… Ok, maybe not.

-

For the last day of the week, Nunew had his extra class again, which he thought about a lot since he did not want to meet that "undesirable creature" as he referred to him.

Before his class period started, he and his friends hung out in the cafeteria, sharing a quiet moment before closing out the week, at the same time that Tutor introduced them to Leo Peerapun, their new roommate. Leo was a younger alpha than them, still a freshman, so he was unfamiliar with many aspects of the institution, as were Nunew and Tutor.

The room where they lived was divided into an omega area and an alpha area, as well as a beta area; During the day they could visit each other, but at a certain time everyone had to be in their rooms for safety reasons.

-Now you have the duty to join us. -Yim said very enthusiastically, pointing to the new boy. -The more we are, the more invincible we are, especially now that Nu has an enemy here. -He added the last thing, approaching him over the table with the intention of whispering.

Nunew looked at him as he took a bite of his sandwich, hoping that he wouldn't take this matter too far, he didn't want to become a student marked as a troublemaker.

- Enemy? -Leo asked with great interest.

-That's right, we have an enemy alpha. -Yim stated . -So, what do you propose?

-Itchy dust in your underwear. -The boy's response was quite quick.

-Nunew we have here a man of action. -Yim expressed applauding.

Nunew just sighed in a gesture of resignation, but before he could give his opinion he was interrupted by someone who approached where they were.

- Hey! - The guy said, approaching Nunew directly.

It was an alpha older than them, who was wearing a white dress shirt with a blue coat over it. He was neatly combed and showed a huge smile when looking at him.

Nunew was startled, he had not seen him before and deep inside he felt that something bad was coming.

-Nunew right? -The stranger asked, pointing at him.

Nunew nodded, unsure if it would be wise to ask who it was.

-Nice, my name is Max. -The stranger introduced himself, taking a seat next to him. - Don't be scared, I'm coming to say hello because my friend didn't want to ask for your phone number himself and he says it's important because they have homework together.

-…Your friend? -Nuenew asked doubtfully, imagining the worst.

-Yes, that one over there, look. -Max pointed towards some tables away from them, where Zee was sitting, with his elbows on the table and his hands on his forehead, his head bowed, due to the shame of seeing what his friend was doing.

Tutor and Leo looked at each other in surprise, and Yim couldn't have his mouth open more in surprise.

- So? -Max asked.

- Nunew! Why did you never tell me that the alpha you were talking about was Prince Panich ?! -Yim demanded, getting up from his seat with his hands on the table.

Nunew had remained mute, looking at Yim , and then looking at the aforementioned sitting in the distance. He could only put his hands to his temples, trying to process everything that was happening and also trying to articulate words.

-I... I don't understand, he... what exactly do you mean by “prince”? -The omega finally asked.

-Aha, now I'm understanding everything. -Max said to himself and then looked at the omega . -You see Nunew, my friend sitting there is called Zee Pruk Panich , and he is the heir prince to the throne of Spades, that as his main function, because he is also a master's student at this institution.

Needless to say, Nunew's hunger had gone and his mouth was now dry, adding that he could swear he was starting to feel nauseous.

Now all those excessive gestures of respect on the part of the professors towards Panich made sense, according to him.

-So, what do I tell him about your phone number? -Max insisted again, breaking him out of his state of mental block.

Nunew looked him in the eyes with marked seriousness.

-No. -He answered, surprising the older man, however, he continued explaining his reasons. -I appreciate your attempt to help your friend, but I think this is something that should be dealt with just between him and me.

-I understand. -Max responded, resigned in his attempt. -I hope you can resolve your differences. -The alpha proceeded to get up from the seat, but before leaving he added something else. -I have to leave before he wants to kill me, but I want you to know that despite everything, Zee is a good guy . I know that sometimes I don't even understand it myself, but he is not someone who has bad intentions.

-I'll keep that in mind, thank you. -Nunew responded dryly, avoiding looking at him.

-I leave you, because this man must be wanting to execute me in front of the entire town like in ancient times. -He added with humor and headed to the exit, following his friend, who had already left the place a few seconds ago.

There was a deep silence at the table; Tutor tried to finish his lunch awkwardly, Leo avoided looking at them and Yim still couldn't stop looking at his friend, who, wanting to avoid an awkward conversation, got up from his seat putting his things away.

-I'll go to class... Muyim, I'll tell you everything later, okay? -he said, to which Yim just nodded without questioning anything for the moment.

Nunew hurried out of the cafeteria, under the gaze of some curious onlookers who witnessed the scene.

…

-Damn it. - Leo broke the silence, drawing the attention of the other two. -There will be no more itchy dust in someone's underwear.

For the first time, Yim didn't seem interested in revenge, now he was only worried about what was going to happen with Nunew and the prince, he didn't want his friend to get involved in any bigger problem.

Chapter Text

He hurriedly entered the classroom and, as soon as he approached his seat, he was surprised that the alpha was already there, with one elbow on the table to rest his head on his hand, and with the other leafing through a book; Still, he decided to ignore it and sit down.

- You won't say anything? -Panich asked, closing his book.

- About what? - Nunew replied curtly. He actually had a lot of questions in his head, but he didn't know where to start.

Before Zee could answer, the professor entered the classroom, left his things on the desk and began giving directions. In any case, he didn't want to be left without giving an answer, so he took out a notebook, tore off a piece of paper and began to write something. Nunew just looked at him out of the corner of his eye.

When he finished, he slid the piece of paper across the table into Nunew's hands, who took it to read it.

"About what Max said"

Nunew thought for a few seconds and, trying not to draw attention, took out a small notepad from his backpack, where he wrote his answer. He took out the sheet of paper he had written on and in the same way passed it across the table to the Alpha's hands.

Zee took the answer and the first thing that caught his attention was that the page was pink with drawings of cat paws... Then, he read what was written:

"Why didn't you ever say it?"

Zee expected a response like that, the omega was right to get upset. He wrote his response on another piece of paper and handed it to him.

"I didn't want you to think I was coercing you with my identity to keep you quiet."

Maybe that alpha was more sensible than he imagined, Nunew thought as he read that. After all, they had been fighting ever since they met, but he never threatened him in any way. Without thinking, he wrote another reply for him again.

"Okay, I'll let it go."

Reading that was a relief for Zee, who wrote something new under the omega's covert gaze.

"Also, you could sue me for abuse of power."

Nunew gave him a hateful look before taking his pencil and writing a new note.

"Stop pushing your luck... Is that possible?"

Zee stared at him expressionless before writing and sliding in his final note.

"I prefer not to answer... Truce?"

Nunew took a deep breath, he didn't want to relate to him, much less now that he knew he was a figure of power, but it was something he wasn't going to be able to avoid. So, he wrote one last response and passed it to him.

"9xxxxxxxxxxxx – This is my phone number"

Zee looked at that number and, looking at the omega triumphantly, subtly took out his cell phone from his bag. Nunew decided to start paying attention to what the class was saying because until that moment he didn't even know what topic the professor was talking about. But it took him only a short time to attend class when he heard the older man say something.

-Check your messages. -Zee told him in a whisper.

Just out of curiosity he decided to listen to him, so putting his backpack on his legs, he cautiously checked his cell phone, and there it was in his notifications, with the sender of an unscheduled number: "Hey! This is my number, don't give it to him no one else" -Zee.

-

Minutes before the end of class, the professor indicated the long-awaited task.

-Alright guys, as an introduction we will begin to study the foundations of our kingdom and as I told you in the previous class, we will be working in pairs, so find a work partner. -He said and then turned to look at Zee and Nunew. -The pair already formed can begin to write what they have to do: You will have to investigate the social and political situation in the year in which this institution was formed, you will also look for who was in power and what was the reason for starting the university.

They both took notes on their topic, and when they finished doing so, they waited in silence until the rest of the topics were assigned and the class ended in its entirety.

- So, will we have to go to the library or do we search on the internet? -Nunew asked, as he walked with him towards the exit of the classroom.

-Actually, I have a better option. -Zee answered with his hands in his pockets. -But you will have to accompany me before you leave. -The omega looked at him with distrust. -Don't worry, it will be quick. -He added as an incentive.

-Alright. -Nunew answered doubtfully.

-Ok, we have to hurry. -The alpha said and took him by the wrist, but before starting to walk the omega protested, broke free of his grip and hit him with his backpack on the arm.

- But without touching me degenerate! -He claimed.

- Hey! You don't have to be so aggressive. - Zee said, rubbing his arm. - Besides, I'm not a degenerate.

- So, let's avoid physical contact and do this quickly. -Nunew answered, hugging his backpack and turning to start walking.

-Hey, you don't even know where we're going. -Zee complained again, going after him.

-

They entered the library, and, being that the same place where all their conflicts began, Nunew couldn't help but feel a little uncomfortable, especially when he saw the librarian at his desk. It wasn't pleasant for him to remember that he gave him a very bad first impression.

- Here is what we are looking for? -He asked the omega.

-Yes, but not exactly here, here. -The alpha answered, pointing to the floor, while directing him towards the reception table, where the librarian was arranging his forms. He, realizing that Zee was there, put his papers aside to greet him.

-Your majesty, welcome... -He greeted, and at that he put on a surprised expression as he recognized the omega. - Have I missed something? -He asked curiously, adjusting his glasses tightly, as if he were not sure if what he saw was real.

-Let's say that he and I are in a truce. -Zee answered. -And we have to complete a task together, so I need the key to the private section please, Mr. Oab.

-Of course son.- The older man replied, sliding back to make room to open one of his drawers. From there he took out a key, from which hung a keychain shaped like a playing card, which was a 3 of spades, and handed it to the alpha. -Make sure you're careful with those books and don't leave any out of place.

-We check them carefully, don't worry, Mr. Oab. -He answered and started off.

The omega, having witnessed everything, still didn't understand where they were going, but they had already arrived and he simply decided to follow the alpha. However, before following him he looked at the librarian and wanted to tell him something.

-Uhm... We are working together only because I forgave him. -He said, and quickly went after the older boy.

The man couldn't help but laugh at that.

"I also liked proud omegas, your majesty" -He thought.

-

Upon entering through the door that corresponded to that key and turning on the light, Nunew found a narrow room with a noticeable musty smell. Around it was shelves full of noticeably old books, and at the back was a desk with a chair.

-Welcome to years, or perhaps centuries of history... actually I'm not so sure. -Said the alpha, going further into the small room. -He approached the table where there were a few books stacked.

Nunew followed him, still looking at the books, trying to read the titles on their spines, some of which were already quite blurry and others even torn.

As he approached the alpha, he saw him start looking through and pulling out some books from one of the shelves. As he did so, he noticed the keychain hanging from the key Zee still held in his hand.

- What does the number on the keychain mean? - I couldn't help but ask.

Zee, who already had around 4 books in his hands, first put them on the desk before giving him an answer.

-This is the third site where you can find official books and documents of the kingdom. -He answered your question. -Here are more specific books about the institution.

-...Then the other two? -Nunew asked again curiously.

-The palace of the sword. -He answered, and the omega looked at him without understanding. -That would be the first thing. -He clarified. -The second thing is the central library. But no one can access these books, so today you have that advantage. -He added, putting one book next to another.

"Victory Sword University: Origin and history"

"History of the Kingdom of Spades"

"Socioeconomic and political structure of Spades"

"Education in the Kingdom of Spades"

-They look like normal books. -Said the omega, taking the first one in his hands.

-That was the first name of the university. -The alpha explained, pointing to the book he had taken. -These are very old books, in the normal library area you could find newer versions of them, but some of these have annotations from my ancestors since they date back many years, plus they are the only ones left in existence and for this reason, there is information that does not exist in new versions.

- So how do we do the task? -Nunew asked. -It wouldn't be right to take them out of here.

In response, Zee first pulled out the chair and offered him to sit, the omega took him at his word and sat down.

-We will have to look for it now and take photos of everything that can be used to study it. -He answered. -In my house there are more of these books, but... -He paused before the youngest's gaze. -This weekend I will have a very busy time so we won't be able to meet, this time it will have to be that way.

-I understand. -Nunew responded, taking out his cell phone and began to open the book in his index.

Zee rested one hand on the back of the chair, and the other on the desk so he could help Nunew in his search for information.

Being in that proximity made him be able to perceive a soft sweet smell, it was something like strawberries and cream, he wondered if that was the omega's natural smell or could it be some perfume.

Usually, only maintaining a bond could smell their natural smell, so I could only attribute it to some artificial fragrance or maybe it was the fact that they were very close to each other.

For his part, Nunew was in a very similar situation from his place. Having the alpha so close made it possible for him to smell an aroma that he couldn't describe exactly: it was like a lavender smell, but with a fresh sensation like mint... However, when I realized that I was smelling the alpha in Instead of paying attention to the book, he came out of his bubble and, before continuing to investigate aromas, he took another of the books and pushed it against Zee's abdomen.

-You look there. -He told him. -We have to hurry; I want to go home now.

-Okay, but stop being aggressive. -Zee answered, adding the last thing with an angry grimace.

The omega did not answer him, instead, he continued searching for what corresponded to him so he could finish the task as quickly as possible.

-

-

-

The weekend arrived, after what had been an endless week for Nunew, full of setbacks and fights with “undesirable people”, specifically one with whom he now had to work as a team to pass his subject.

And that is what led precisely to that moment, where one peaceful Saturday afternoon he was at the desk in the room, taking note of the photographs he had obtained of the books in the private books section of the library.

Behind him, sitting on his bed with a bowl of cheese balls, Yim looked at a small TV that he had gone to get from his house to put in the room, on a small table, which he also took from his house.

-Hey Nu, so he will do his part of the task on his side? -Yim asked, interrupting his note-taking.

Hearing this, Nunew took off the headphones he was wearing to try to concentrate, and turned to answer his friend.

They had already talked about what happened in the cafeteria, a conversation where Yim explained that Zee was such a kind and respected prince that it was difficult for him to believe that they had started on the wrong foot. Because of this, Nunew told him a detail about how things had happened, in such a way that Yim believed him, because, finally, he had not had the opportunity to interact with the prince in any way.

-Yes, he said he had several things to do this weekend, so everyone would have to do it on their own. -He explained. -And I think it's excellent, so I don't have to see it. -He said finally returning to put on his headphones and returning to studying.

-I see. -Yim said, turning his gaze back to the TV. -He probably won’t be able to do that while he’s dealing with all those rich old men. -he added, glancing sideways at Nunew, who took off his headphones again and turned around.

- What are you talking about? -Nunew asked, looking at him suspiciously.

-Well... -Yim began, maintaining the mystery while he put another cheese ball in his mouth.

-Muyim... What do you know? -Nunew said looking at him while narrowing his eyes.

-You said you didn’t want to see him. -Yim replied mockingly.

- Yim! -Nunew exclaimed annoyed.

-Okay, okay... -Yim answered and then pointed to the TV. -It's there. -He finally said.

Nunew turned to look at the TV, where a news program was being broadcast. In that specific one I could see people wearing elegant outfits.

He stopped what he was doing and went to sit next to Yim on his bed, continuing to watch the show; On the banner of the broadcast it was written "Special coverage: The Duchess of Spades celebrates her birthday in the company of many guests"

-I was there, I'm not lying to you. -Yim said again, since they still did not see the aforementioned among the large number of people looking at each other in the room, until... - There he is! -He pointed to the screen again.

Among the crowd that was being filmed, you could see a long table, where the alpha prince was helping an older woman get into her seat, and later he took his place next to her.

At that time, the banner's caption changed to: "Queen Pimphira and Prince Zee attend the birthday celebration of the Duchess of Spades."

They were both dressed in very elegant clothes, she in a long-sleeved light blue dress with a subtle floral print, as well as a top hat of the same color, decorated with flowers in yellow tones. The alpha, for his part, was wearing a tailored suit, with his hair combed neatly to one side and he gave off a more imposing vibe than usual that made it inevitable not to stand out among the guests.

-He may be a jerk, but he's very handsome. - Yim commented. -I find it hard to believe that he doesn't have a partner. Do you think he wants to marry me? - he added, breaking the seriousness of the moment.

-Alphas like him do not have one partner, but many Muyim. -Nunew said immediately. -That's what my brother says, who knows them closely.

-And your brother has a partner?- Yim decided to ask, receiving an indignant look from his friend. -I'm just joking.- he defended himself, taking another of his cheese balls to his mouth. -But seriously, Prince Zee has been judged a lot for not being paired.

- Does it matter that much? -Nunew asked.

-Obviously yes. -Yim stated. -Especially when it comes to the heir, because if the king dies and we only have one king, it is considered that we are in danger.

-Explain. -Nunew turned to look at him seriously and evidently curious.

-The royal balance Nu. -He answered trying to highlight it as something obvious. -King and Queen have different tasks with which they maintain an orderly and safe kingdom. Legend has it that if one is missing, prosperity may come to an end. And since Prince Zee does not have a partner and has said publicly that he is capable of taking care of everything alone and does not need anyone else, the noble body of Spades is not very happy with him and could protest against him.

- And then what would happen? -Nunew asked him, already very immersed in listening to him.

-Choose another king, but I don't think that will happen. -Yim answered. -Rumors say that the kings could pressure him to have an arranged wedding with some omega of the nobility.

That created a strange feeling inside Nunew, who tried to distract him by stealing Yim's plate of junk food.

- How do you know so much? - Nunew asked.

-TweetCard. -Yim answered, taking a handful of fried foods and putting them in his mouth before continuing. -Royal gossip is powerful Nu. -He continued saying. -Hey... How about we bother him a little?

Nunew looked at him strangely.

At that, Yim stood up and went to the desk where the shorter one had been working.

- Now you have his number, right? -He said grabbing the cell phone that was resting on the desk, and at that moment Nunew realized what his friend was trying to do.

- Muyim, don't even think about it! - But when he stood up - scattering the cheese balls on the bed in the process, Yim had already been fast enough to run and lock himself in the bathroom.

Nunew could only start knocking on the door.

- Yim don't do what you're thinking!

There was no answer.

- Yim get out of there now! -He continued hitting.

Unanswered.

- Yim!

-The "stupid prince" already received the message. -He heard from inside the bathroom.

The doorknob turned and the door opened, and that's when Yim came out and handed the phone back to him.

-It's not a big deal Nu, nor that I would have sent him kisses. -He answered, while Nunew was checking the phone desperately.

However, the only thing Yim had sent him was a simple message of: "Hello :D! Is your party being fun?"

At that moment a "Typing..." appeared on his status bar.

-How fast. -Yim said looking out from his shoulder.

- Muyim, this is your fault! - Nunew exclaimed in panic and jumped onto his bed to quickly write: "IT WASN'T ME, IT WAS MY FRIEND"

At the same time, the prince's response appeared:

"I've had better ones, have you made any progress on your homework?"

"Ah, I see, it was to be expected" (he replied in response to his clarifying message)

Nunew seriously considered whether to continue answering him; After all, the alpha had not written him a message with the intention of offending him. So, without further thinking about it, he decided to continue writing.

"Yeah, I was studying until Yim saw you on TV."

"Shouldn't you be at your event instead of answering messages?"

Well, he had sent that last one out of mere curiosity, he turned to look at the TV, but the coverage of the event had already ended.

Then, in the status bar, “typing…” appeared.

"Actually, I'm bored"

"And I look handsome on TV?"

Nunew was clear about what to answer to that last one:

"NO"

And with the same speed his message was answered:

"You don't have to lie either Nunew"

"My mother's friends haven't stopped talking about how handsome I am."

And it was there that Nunew saw a great opportunity to annoy him, so withstanding a laugh he gave him his response:

"So, the 'type' of omegas you like are older omegas?"

He sent it, and by that time he had to cover his mouth with his hand so Yim wouldn’t notice that he was having fun with this conversation… Yim? He had forgotten, sat up and saw him shaking his bed after the disaster with the plate of cheese balls, so he went back to his phone, where he already had an answer.

"What? Of course not!"

Nunew continued writing with every intention of making his mockery greater, so, lying on his side on the bed, he continued writing:

"I don't judge 😛 "

The response was again quick, and Nunew couldn't help but laugh when he saw that it was a row of angry emojis.

" 😡😡😡😡😡😡 "

"Are you so intent on making me look bad, gossipy omega?"

And Nunew caught the reference, puffed out his cheeks angrily, and counterattacked.

"I'm going to capture this and I'm going to accuse you."

" 😡 "

However, he only received an "Aha" for that.

"Stupid conceited alpha"

He sent that last message followed by an angry cat sticker, but by then the alpha was no longer online.

-Wow, how much did you talk to him about? -Yim said, taking him out of his bubble, he hadn't realized when he sat behind him.

-We weren't talking, he was insulting me. -Nunew defended himself.

-I saw that you put an insult there. -Yim asked, pointing to the cell phone screen.

-Because defended myself Muyim, there is nothing more to say, I'd better go and continue with my task. -Without further ado he got up and returned to his desk.

After that last message, the alpha did not answer and he did not hear from him for the rest of the weekend.

-

-

-

- Who do you talk to so much? - Pimphira asked, drinking from her glass cup while glancing at her son, who seemed to be immersed in his phone for quite some time.

Zee snapped out of his trance and saw his mother watching him, and of course it was understandable since several minutes ago he had stopped listening to the hubbub of the event to concentrate on giving the omega answers.

-With Max and Net in our group. -He apologized. He didn't have to let his mother know that he was arguing with an omega over text.

-You can talk to them later son, why don't you go talk to someone else? There are many guests, maybe you will even find someone who is of interest to you. -Commented his mother.

-Okay mother, maybe I should do it. -He finally answered, while putting his cell phone in his pocket.

...

Chapter Text

Zee's week could have started better... Or maybe not, in fact, he couldn't even remember the last time he had a peaceful and uplifting start to the week. Since the sun rose, he already had an agenda to fulfill, especially since he decided that he could handle any task that was put in front of him, and that included fulfilling his own princely activities -in which he added volunteering at the university-, studying his master's degree, covering part of his sick father's activities and part of his mother's when his father needed her with him.

That morning the situation revolved around that busy schedule of activities; He began the day by approaching the kitchen with the intention of making a coffee, but as soon as he entered the place, a young woman appeared through the door frame with a notebook in her hands.

-We have to review the agenda your majesty, there were changes that you need to hear about because it is urgent. -She expressed before he even took his cup.

Fae was the assistant assigned to him by his parents to facilitate the fulfillment of his new tasks; She was an omega woman whom he had known for many years, with a fun character and always spontaneous with him... but also firm with the fulfillment of her duties, that made her a trusted figure for his family.

Zee sighed in defeat and turned towards her, but not before calling one of the cooks who were there.

-Mrs. Min, could you make me some coffee, please? -He asked the lady, who nodded with a very kind smile.

-Of course, your majesty, I will prepare it for you in a moment. -Answered the lady, who was carrying a stack of freshly washed dishes.

-Thank you very much, please send it to me in the dining room. -He said again, and again addressed the woman with the agenda. -Okay Fae, let's go to the dining room.

She came out first, followed by him, who sighed as he imagined the amount of work that awaited him.

They took a seat in the dining room and she began to look through her agenda until she found the page she was looking for.

-This week your father has to attend his radiotherapy, Your Majesty, and since the queen will be accompanying him in it, I'm afraid he will have to take part in the activities that his mother had for this week. -Fae said pointing to her notes. -For now, you are free today beyond your own tasks, but tomorrow afternoon there is a charity event at your university in order to raise funds for the university hospital. Of course, you will be there and say a few words about the donation that the royal family made. -She finished pointing at him.

-Tomorrow afternoon I have a class, Fae. -Zee responded looking at the marked page.

-You don't have to worry about that your majesty, the professor will be informed of the event. -She answered.

-It's not just that, it's that... -Zee didn't know how to express his concern due to his homework with an omega who was clearly going to get angry if he didn't show up. - Can't you ask the professor to be present at the event and cancel the class?

Fae looked at him, raising an eyebrow in surprise, hoping that this request was not serious.

-Seriously, I have an important assignment in that class. -He said again.

- What is the desire to make things more difficult, Your Majesty? -She expressed, putting her hands on her waist. -Okay, look, you are going to hand in your homework and then you are going to the event location. Is that okay with you or is that okay with you?

-That seems fine to me. -Zee answered somewhat inhibited.

-I'm glad to hear that. -She said making a new note on the sheet.

This is how his week began; exhausted by the events and trips made during the weekend, the constant worry about his father, the assignment of new tasks and the absence of a coffee that never arrived.

-

-

As planned, he did not miss his class; However, he was delayed for a few minutes while adjusting the plan with Fae and climbed step after step until he reached his classroom, where the professor was already teaching the class.

He opened the door slowly, drawing the attention of the group, especially the omega, who was watching him from the back.

- Your Majesty, what are you doing here? I have already been informed of the charity event. - The professor said to him upon entering.

-I didn't mean to be irresponsible, professor. - He replied, closing the door behind him.

-Okay, I think it's excellent son, go to your place, agree with Chawarin and tell me about his investigation. -The professor indicated. -As soon as they finish you can leave.

He heeded the order and went to his seat, where the omega kept looking at him.

-The professor said that you had to attend something and we could leave our topic for next time. -Nunew told him in a low voice.

Zee had to take a deep breath at this information, why didn't he imagine it before? Well, it was already there anyway.

- Okay. -He answered coldly.

Did the omega feel that response was strange or was it just him? Although it was annoying, the alpha was usually relaxed and mocking, but now he felt cold and somewhat intimidating.

Maybe it was just him, but he couldn't help but feel strange, as if restless... He didn't even smell the same fresh smell as the last time he was with him...

- Chawarin! -He heard, finally coming out of his bubble, the professor was calling him. - Aren't you feeling well? -The man asked.

-I'm fine, I just got a little distracted. -He answered immediately.

-Okay, if you feel bad, let me know. Now, come forward and let's have a plenary discussion to analyze what you found. -The professor finally asked.

They both obeyed, complied with the instructions and presented the data they had collected in the books they had previously studied.

Even during his presentation Nunew couldn't help but look at the alpha's expressions when he spoke, noticing that there was more coldness in him that afternoon, and he also didn't stop at any time to joke with him or anything like that, the entire time he remained reserved, from the beginning until his task was completed.

As soon as the activity came to an end, the alpha immediately gathered his things to leave.

-They are waiting for me downstairs for the hospital event, if there is anything else to do send me a message. -Zee said loading his things, Nunew just nodded and watched him leave without saying more.

-

Once again, Zee made his way through the hallways of the institution, descending the steps being careful not to fall. He left the building directly to walk through the gardens until he reached the designated event area; From afar he could see the crowd gathering in front of a platform where someone else was speaking.

Zee could visualize Fae sitting in one of the chairs in front of the dais, with her bag on the chair beside her, to save a seat.

Being close to arriving, Fae saw him and vacated the seat, which he took with great need due to the agitation he was already carrying due to the journey he had had to make.

-The students are still giving their thank you speeches, Your Majesty, and they have prepared a dance show for the guests, there was no reason to rush so much. -She said when she saw the prince's exhaustion.

Zee again had to count to ten as soon as he heard that, the phrase: “he didn't have to hurry so much”, echoed in his ears. But they were in public, he could only nod with his typical kind smile and tell her that hurrying was also part of the line of duty.

So, as if he knew what the students were talking about, he limited himself to observing the event as if it were the most transcendental thing in his life.

He maintained his position until - finally - the time for his speech arrived; He was used to giving speeches, he had had to learn to speak in front of an audience from a very young age, so he lacked stage fright. Being on that stage he was able to observe the happy expressions of his audience, who were mainly students and professors, but there were exceptions and he knew it when he saw some nobles sitting among them, looking at him coldly. That sector of the public was probably there because they had made a donation or had some other relationship with the cause.

Very well, he could handle it, he was used to such things and, therefore, his words flowed without difficulty. It was until a few moments later that, looking towards the backs of the seats, he could distinguish the pink omega, along with his loud friend and his other alpha friend. The three of them were there, watching the event and whispering among themselves… Had class ended earlier? He wondered, and at that moment, he and Nunew made eye contact for a few seconds, before the omega left there along with his friends, and those same seconds made him pause slightly in what he was saying.

He decided to avoid looking at the bottom, he had to concentrate on continuing with his task and not ruining it.

-

-

-

- Zee, you seriously couldn't have just ignored that man?! -Fae exclaimed upset, as she entered the meeting room that the university had lent them to rest. She rarely referred to him informally since, above all, she was in the service of his family, but at that moment she was truly elated.

Behind her, the alpha entered, closing the door and going directly to lie down on one of the armchairs in the room.

- You know perfectly well that there are many people who are just waiting to see you do something wrong so they can point their finger at you! -She continued to complain to him.

- Fae please! I never disrespected him, I just defended my presence here, he can't accuse me of anything. -Zee defended himself, sitting down.

- He's one of the nobles, Zee! That man is going to distort everything and speak ill of you at the next meetings. - Fae looked desperate, pacing back and forth in front of him.

-And what did you expect me to do, Fae? -Asked the angry boy.

-Just respond and ignore any provocation. -She answered.

-In a few words he said that I did a good job as my mother's messenger and that I should consider it as my job because I am mediocre for the position of king. -He explained.

-You know well that he didn't say it like that. -Fae said crossing her arms.

-But you know perfectly well that that's what he meant. -Zee contradicted her. -Although I was never rude to him, I only told him that my work here as a prince and as a student was valuable, unlike the nobles who boast about helping when they're just looking to show off. -He continued explaining.

- Don't you see how aggressive that is Zee! -Fae exclaimed in despair.

-I wasn't aggressive Fae, I never insulted him. -The alpha defended himself again.

- With that answer, it's like you're giving them the reason, Zee. You act childish when you answer them and they see you as a child who is not fit to rule because he hasn't even been able to find a partner. - She put his hand to his forehead in frustration.

If Zee was already angry, remembering those statements made him feel furious.

-Ah, so you also think I'm childish, right? -Zee stood up from his place now more upset. - Then why don't you ask my mother to assign you to take care of my nephews? That way you don't have to deal with all this.

-No Zee, don't change the subject. -She replied as she saw him stand up.

-No, I won't change the subject, but I'd rather leave to be at peace. - The alpha gathered his things and, in front of the woman's surprised gaze, he quickly headed for the door.

- Zee come back here, we have to go home together! -Fae scolded him when she saw that the boy in her care was serious.

Zee ignored her, and turning the doorknob and violently opening it, found that the entrance was blocked; In front of the door frame was Nunew, who slowly raised his gaze until it collided with his.

-The classroom doors are not noise-proof . -Said the omega. -You're lucky there aren't that many students passing through here.

Zee didn't know why Nunew was there, but at that moment he didn't want to delve into reasons, he just wanted to leave, so he didn't bother to ask any questions.

-I don't have time now Nunew, step aside. -He asked with all the kindness he could.

- So, it's not just unknown omegas that you're a complete jerk to? - He replied, looking him in the eyes and not moving from his spot. - You can be horrible with close omegas too, even those who are there to help you.

In the background Fae witnessed the situation without getting closer.

-I don't have time for this Nunew. -Zee repeated.

-I know, you prefer to spit in the faces of others and run away when you can't handle the situation. -Nunew stood firm, pronouncing each word harshly.

- Damn it, I don't have time for an omega who doesn't know his place and gets involved in things he doesn't care about! -Zee exclaimed in front of him.

That was not followed by a verbal response, in fact, Zee did not know at what moment Nunew had raised his hand to slap him the hardest slap he had ever received in his life... and also the only one he had ever received in his life.

The pain, burning and dizziness were instantaneous, as a reflex he placed his hand on his bruised cheek and turned to look at the omega in fear.

In the room, Fae was already on edge, covering her mouth with her hands as she witnessed that act. Everything seems to be happening too fast.

-For a minute this weekend I thought you weren't a horrible alpha, but you know what? I regret thinking that, you are rubbish Zee Pruk, the worst I have ever seen. -The omega reprimanded, saying the last thing with a broken voice.

Between the burning sensation he felt on his cheek, and the confusion due to the blow, Zee looked at how tears were already streaming down the omega's face; he had no words to answer. His senses were blocked both by the omega's sour aroma and by the sight of him crying.

But it was only a few seconds that he witnessed that expression of pain, because the omega left quickly, leaving him stunned.

There were so many things happening that he didn't even notice the moment when Fae pulled him back into the room and pushed him onto the couch. He felt encapsulated, listening to the woman's cries as if she were very far away.

What brought him out of his trance was the pain he felt as soon as she touched his bruised cheek.

-My God Zee, promise me this isn't something that always happens... Tell me you're not having problems with that omega. -Fae took one of his hands in hers, squeezing it as she spoke to him.

-Fae... -Zee began to say in a low voice. -I deserved it. -That said, Zee couldn't hold back his tears either, and in front of the woman, he cried.

She handed him a handkerchief that she took out of her bag.

- What's going on with that omega, Zee? Did something happen between you and him? Did you do something to make him act like that? - Fae had a lot of questions. - The two of you could get into trouble if there's something between you two and...

-No Fae, it's nothing like that. -Zee interrupted, wiping himself with the handkerchief. -He and I are just classmates; he doesn't like me very much and now I've given him more reasons to hate me.

- And you? -She asked, referring to his feelings.

- I don't hate him. -He answered. -We got off to a bad start, he complains about everything, he goes where he's not called and I can't stand the fact that he thinks I'm a bad person... but those aren't reasons to hate him.

Fae sighed, before continuing to speak.

-For now, we have to go, look...- she took a package of masks out of her bag, took one out and handed it to him. -You will have to wear this until we get to the palace infirmary, no one should see that you are hurt, much less your parents.

Zee took the object, putting it on without another word; At that moment he felt deeply emotionally drained, so he simply decided to obey the woman and they left the place.

-

Chapter Text

The night of the incident he couldn't fall asleep, the image of the crying omega repeated itself over and over again in his mind, disturbing his peace, thinking about how he could have avoided that... But nothing, he knew that what was done was done.

The next day he went to college and walked through the halls, but he didn't see the omega anywhere. He even saw his two friends in the dining halls, but he wasn't with them.

The next day the same thing happened, Nunew was nowhere to be found.

He also didn't have the courage to send him a message, he still felt very embarrassed.

Likewise, he didn't say anything to Fae again, he didn't want to talk about it. The only one who found out what had happened was Max, since after passing by the infirmary on the day of the events, his friend was very opportune in coming to visit him. At first Zee didn't want to take off his mask in front of him, but finally he did, and although Max was scared at first... Then he couldn't hide his laughter when he found out the cause of his red cheek.

If Zee wrote a diary, surely the last pages would begin with “Dear diary, today I had another miserable day…”

Finally, after three straight nights of self-loathing, Zee plucked up the courage and -with Max's help- got Yim 's schedule. So, at the end of his last class, I wait for him in the hallway.

He could see him in the crowd leaving his classroom, but his legs didn't move… But as soon as Yim walked to the end of the hallway, he began to follow him silently. He subtly chased him down the hallways and stairs until they reached the sidewalk that led to the parking lot.

At that moment Yim stopped, turned around and looked him in the eyes.

-Your majesty, if you want to tell me something you can do so, it is not necessary to follow me as if I were a thief or a rapist. -Yim told him with his typical humor.

Zee didn't know what to say, that was much stronger than "pervert" or "degenerate", as Nunew used to call him.

-You and I know why you are following me, right? - Yim crossed his arms, waiting for a response.

- Is it so obvious? -The alpha answered.

-Your majesty, with all due respect, you deserved for me to personally go and teach you a lesson after what you did to my friend. -Yim spoke with resentment. -But Nunew asked me to behave.

-You're right, I deserved that. -Zee stated defeated. - But even so, I will dare to ask you where Nunew is. -Zee dared to say, facing him again.

-Nunew is indisposed. -Yim answered, almost spitting the words at him.

- indisposed? - Zee asked curiously.

-Nunew is in one of those times of the year when the omegas want a baby. -Yim said, acting as if he were cradling a baby.

Simply put, Nunew was in heat.

-Ah… -Zee was speechless again.

-That's what makes it worse, Your Majesty. - Yim caught his attention. -You raised your voice at an omega who was in pre-heat.

With that information, everything that happened previously made sense to Zee; An omega in pre-heat was more sensitive.

"I'm sorry, I... I didn't notice anything, these days I really haven't been very aware of my actions..." Zee felt even more embarrassed.

-He was more fragile and you were a monster, your majesty. - Yim emphasized, approaching him and touching his chest with his index finger.

Hell, I haven't seen an omega this eloquent before.

-I... I'd like to apologize to him, for everything. - Zee replied, thinking seriously about the word "monster".

-Well, as I say, that won't be possible for now, it will have to wait. -The omega responded. -So, have a good weekend your majesty. -Yim finished, patting him on the shoulder and then leaving.

Zee watched him go, he really didn't have anything else to say; However, he felt deeply dissatisfied.

-

During the ride home he remained silent, simply looking out the window, lost in thought. Suddenly, his driver's voice brought him out of his trance, they had stopped at a traffic light.

-Your majesty, I know it is none of my business, but I appreciate you very much and I can't help but notice that something is happening to you, is there anything I can help you with. -Asked.

Mark, his driver, had always been one of his trusted people. Furthermore, since they were almost the same age and both were alphas, he saw him as someone he could get along with very well, so he felt confident in asking him the doubt that was running through his head.

-Mark, how do you get an omega to forgive you after you were a brute? -He asked bluntly.

The light turned green again and the car behind them honked its horn once, twice, even three times. It took Mark seconds too long to process what he had heard.

He started the car again and looked at a confused Zee in the rearview mirror.

-Excuse me, Your Majesty, I still can't believe what you just told me. -Mark said. -Are you serious? Is your conflict over an omega? Does it have to do with the swelling on your cheek the other day?

-Mark, it's not what you're thinking. -Zee warned, observing him sinisterly in the rearview mirror. -This omega is my college classmate and also a hardhead... But I admit that I was the worst with him lately and yes, he deserved the slap he gave me. -Upon confirming the fact, Mark opened his eyes wide as he looked at him through the rearview mirror.

-I see... -Mark said almost in a whisper. -Omegas are complicated beings, your majesty. They may share with us the characteristic of being naturally stronger than a common beta human, but they are also the most fragile beings you will ever meet. No matter how harsh the image they may show you, they have a very sensitive heart that is easy to break.

Zee had never heard Mark speak that way, he had to admit he was feeling moved.

-So, I recommend that if you're going to apologize, you do it in his language and show him your most sensitive side, even bring him something that shows him that you've been thinking about the harm you did to him. - Mark said and Zee's head began to connect wires.

- You say I should give him something like a gift? -He asked leaning towards his side.

-If you think it is necessary. -Mark responded.

-Then I'll do that. - Zee replied hopefully. Mark could see through the rearview mirror that Zee took out his cell phone and dialed.

A few seconds later he could hear that the call had been answered.

-Max, tomorrow we will go shopping... No, not for me, I... I asked Mark how I could fix the problem and he told me that I could buy him something...

-Would I have been right to tell him that? -Mark questioned himself.

-Yeah, sure... I don't know, what do you propose?... He always carries cute things with him, I recognize when something is his... Okay... Then I'll see you there early... Yeah, I'll see you.

The call ended, and Zee looked towards Mark again.

-Mark, tomorrow at the end of my meeting you will take me to the central square, I told Max that I will see him there as soon as he leaves. -Zee indicated and Mark looked at him in disbelief.

-Wait... So soon your majesty? -The man asked, quite surprised.

-I will personally go to the student residence where he lives and talk to his friend. - Zee answered, sure of his decision. - I can't see him because he's not feeling well, but I don't want this problem to grow.

-Understand. -Mark answered. -Just be careful your majesty, lest you come back with the other cheek red."

-

As planned, Max and Zee walked around the mall looking for something Zee could use to express his apologies... A rather -very- strange situation for both of them since neither of them had had to do something like that before, so entering the gift shops was quite a show for them. Anyway, they managed to complete the mission and were now in the car on their way to the student dorm.

-You should set up an altar for me Zee, look at everything I do for you. -Max was telling him while drinking from his water bottle.

Beside him, Zee looked at the result of his trip through several stores: he had bought a keychain of a stuffed cat, dressed in a white bear suit with pink paw prints and ears, and a pink bow tied around its neck. Being an overly pompous and cute toy, he knew that this would be the perfect gift for that omega.

-There are not many male omegas with such tender tastes, but with such a sour character. -Max said, breaking him out of his thoughts, leaning down to observe the doll closely. -You found a needle in a haystack Zee, although I insist that you are exaggerating.

-I have to continue working with him in classes and it won't be possible if we don't get along. -Zee excused himself.

- Okay ... -Max rolled his eyes at that answer, but still wanted to help him more. -Then why don't you write a note and add it?

-That would be exaggerating Max. -Zee answered, and at that moment the car stopped. They had arrived.

-Ready, your majesty, here is the entrance to the student residence. - Mark announced.

The alphas in the back seat watched the entrance to the building. The lobby was made up of glass walls, so they could see the blue chairs on the edges and some students who were hanging around at that moment.

-Then, I'm going to enter. -Zee said putting on his dark glasses, after all he did not want to show his presence among the boys present at the site.

-Good luck, buddy... Mark, get the first aid kit out of the glove compartment for when I get back. -Max said the last thing out loud, trying to get Zee to hear him.

So, once they were out of the car, Zee gave him the middle finger before closing the door and Max couldn't help but laugh.

- Do you think it will be okay? -Mark asked, looking out from his seat.

-Well, I don't think I can make it any worse. -Max answered, looking towards where his friend had gone, who had already entered the building.

-

Zee observed that the lobby was very spacious, with several tables with their respective chairs, armchairs on the edges, there were students working at some tables and others simply hanging out with friends.

He looked at the area where the reception was located, seriously thinking about what he was going to say, but his nervousness was dispelled by a young alpha who appeared in the room carrying his backpack, apparently about to leave.

-Your majesty, good morning. -Tutor greeted him with a slight bow as soon as he saw him, and approached him when he saw him disoriented. - Is something wrong?

- You are friends with Nunew and Yim right? -Zee asked, sure he had seen him with them.

-That's right... You're looking for Nunew, right? -Tutor was observant.

-Yes, but, I know he can't go out, so I would like to talk to Yim . -The older alpha answered, a little nervous.

-I understand, I'll send a message to Yim to come down, okay? -Tutor said, taking out his phone and sending the text quickly. -It's ready, I told him to come down.

-Thank you very much, really... - Zee thanked him, realizing that he did not know the boy's name.

-My name is Tutor, I'm in the alpha wing of the building. – Tutor quickly introduced himself.

-Thank you Tutor. -Zee thanked him again, and for a few seconds he looked down thinking about something. -Hey, don't you happen to have a pencil and paper?

At that request, the young man couldn't help but look at him strangely, but in response he nodded and immediately began searching his backpack, taking out what Zee needed.

-Here you are. -He handed him a small notebook and a black pen.

Zee took both objects and opened the notebook. Tutor watched as the prince began to write something, pausing between seconds as if he were seriously thinking about what else to write. However, it didn't take long and he saw how he tore off the sheet and folded the paper, then returned the things to him.

-Again, I thank you very much. -Zee said putting the sheet in his pocket. -Today you saved me.

-There is nothing to thank your majesty; Now, if you'll excuse me, I must leave, and don't worry, Yim must be arriving by now. -Tutor answered, closing his backpack and putting it on his shoulder.

And said and done, the aforementioned omega arrived in the room, visualizing Zee, and Zee him.

-I wish you luck, Yim is not a bad person, he is just upset about what happened between you and Nunew. -Tutor said before leaving, almost running from the place.

Zee wasn't surprised at all that Tutor was also aware of what had happened, what surprised him was that he didn't also treat him like a bully.

- Now what are you looking for here, Your Majesty? I thought I told you that Nunew is not available. -Yim said harshly, as he walked towards him, arms crossed.

In his entire life, Zee had never faced an omega who dared to confront him, and well, Yim was actually already the second.

-I know very well that Nunew can't get out, don't worry. -Zee answered firmly, by that time he had gained courage after the shit week he had had. -But I am not a man who runs away from his own actions, so I came to bring something for him and then I will wait until we can talk.

Yim was quite surprised by the attitude the alpha was now displaying, and it was inevitable not to open his eyes wide when he saw him take the doll out of his coat pocket, along with the folded sheet of paper he had written on a few minutes ago.

He placed the sword on the cat doll's collar and extended it towards Yim, who received it quite surprised by what he was witnessing.

-I really apologize for everything that happened, and I know this won't make things better, but it's my way of expressing my regret. Also, I apologize if I caused you any inconvenience. -Zee said, putting his hands together in a sign of apology.

- Okay ... I'll hand it over to Nunew, but don't think I'll stop watching you. -Yim responded , pointing with his index and middle fingers. -So, if you have nothing more to say, I will return with him to the room.

-Go ahead, and thank you very much for coming down. -Zee responded to this, again firmly and formally.

The mission had been accomplished and he had emerged unscathed, now he just had to wait for Nunew to return to class, and hope that he wasn't so upset anymore.

Was he exaggerating the situation? He would think about it later.

-

A few days later, he was able to concentrate a little more, but he was still worried about what would happen when they saw each other again. Fortunately, he was able to concentrate more on his work, or at least that was the case until, in the middle of a meeting with representatives from other kingdoms, he received a message from Max containing a picture.

When he opened it, he found a photo taken inside his friend's car, captured from the driver's seat to the leg area of the passenger seat; In it he could see the legs of a person dressed in blue jeans... and on them a pink backpack.

Under the photo, Max's message read: “Guess who is with me on the way to see you?”

He could have sworn that he became cold at that moment.

Chapter Text

He had been surprised that he had not realized beforehand that his heat was about to arrive. Well, perhaps the hustle and bustle he had experienced in the last few weeks due to settling into a new place to live, plus various situations that led him to feel uneasy, could have caused him to confuse the symptoms of stress with the symptoms of pre-heat.

He had literally realized it when it was already happening: That morning he woke up feeling an annoying slimy sensation between his legs, as well as a very strong heat in that area that encouraged him to rub against something. However, that was not an option, because he was in a shared room now.

Still feeling weak in his legs, he stood up, looked at the bed beside him, and saw that Yim was still sleeping. He carefully approached the closet to find and take out a small first aid kit, from which he took out a box of heat suppressants. He went to get a bottle of water from the small refrigerator they had obtained and locked himself in the bathroom to clean up. As soon as he was done, he would wake Yim up to tell him his situation.

-

After that uncomfortable night in bed, Yim was going to justify his absence, so he only had to stay in the room for a couple of days. He was helping himself with the suppressants, however, it was still torture to be in that state, and the effects didn't disappear, they only diminished, so it wasn't strange that he ended up self-indulging as soon as his friend left for class and he stayed alone for a couple of hours.

He was an unmated omega, so his symptoms could be draining, even emotionally, and lead to intrusive thoughts like maybe he was destined to spend every heat cycle of his life alone, since maybe no decent alpha would ever notice.

“Alpha decent”

Thinking about those words, he remembered what had happened the day before and felt his eyes fill with tears. At that moment he didn't know what to think, he was aware that he had been rather rude, but Zee had brought it on himself by insulting him.

Did all handsome alphas have to be such jerks?

He wasn't even surprised to think of the alpha as handsome, in the end being handsome didn't make him any less stupid.

In the midst of his emotional moment, he took out his phone and wrote a message to his family: “I miss you all so much ):”

-

-

The following days passed in the same way; living the bitterness of his biological state and lamenting all those things that were not going well in his life.

The strange thing happened on a Saturday morning; since he had no chance to build a nest because he was in a student room, he took refuge under his sheets while the effects of the suppressants wore off.

At the side, Yim was watching his drama on his bed. But after a while, he heard Yim get up and call him.

-Nu, I have to go down to do something, I'll be back in a moment. - Yim warned, waiting for an answer.

-Okay. -he replied from under his sheets, and then he heard his friend leave and close the door.

A few minutes passed, during which he seriously considered asking Yim for some chocolate-filled cookies, then he would blame the heat cycle for that sugar craving. But after a while he heard the door open again, he pulled the sheet off his face and saw that it was Yim… who had one hand hidden behind his back.

Yim walked a few steps and stood in front of him, without showing his hidden hand.

-Hey Nu, we need to talk. -he said sitting next to him on the bed, making sure he couldn't see what he was hiding.

-Yeah, well, look Nu… Yesterday I ran into… you know, your unmentionable, at school. - He commented bluntly, playing with a corner of the sheet.

That was the last thing he wanted to hear, especially at that moment.

- Did he say something to you? - He asked, not knowing what else to say.

-He wanted to apologize to you. -he answered, greatly surprising the omega in bed. -But I told him no, and that you couldn't.

-Uh-huh… -Nunew listened without making eye contact.

-I thought the matter was closed, but he came here to the lobby today. -he said bluntly, and Nunew sat down abruptly.

- What?! - Nunew exclaimed in fear.

-Tutor told me that he was waiting for me in the lobby and that's why I came down. -He explained. -He came to apologize again and… -Yim slowly took out his hidden hand, showing the small cat plush. -He wanted me to give you this, as a sign of how sorry he is.

Nunew was speechless, stupefied, stunned, and every other possible synonym, at what he was witnessing.

He grabbed the doll from his friend's hand and began to inspect it, besides it was a pretty cute object, on its necklace it had a folded leaf.

-I guess he's not such a bad alpha after all, Nu. -Yim interrupted him. -He seems very sorry indeed.

-Muyim… Could you get me some chocolate cookies? -Nunew changed the subject, and put the doll aside. -I feel like I need them to think better.

- Are you feeling sick? Do you want me to order some food for delivery? - Yim asked in surprise.

-No, just something sweet will be fine. -Nunew said.

-Okay. - Yim replied, standing up. -Anyway, I was going to go get something to eat before the unmentionable one arrived. I'll be down then; I'll leave you alone for a moment. -he grabbed his bag from the nightstand and headed for the door.

-I'll be fine Muyim, thank you. -Nunew replied, and finally saw him leave.

When the door closed, he immediately took the stuffed animal back and pulled out the sheet of paper stuck in the collar, which he opened quickly and curiously. On it was written something:

“Hi, I bought this for you because I thought it matches the things you like. I sincerely apologize for what happened, I hope you can forgive me. Let’s talk when you get back.”

-ZPP”

The neat handwriting definitely matched the times I had seen him write during classes.

He put the letter aside and began to look at the stuffed animal. It was an extremely cute character and very soft and fluffy to the touch. But, considering that he was in a state of “great hormonal alteration”, he almost instinctively sniffed the doll… He could smell the lavender and mint aroma, but something was… different.

That impregnated smell was disturbing him, suddenly, he felt the moisture between his legs beginning to be prominent. He lay down again, covering himself completely with the sheets, leaving the stuffed animal in front of his face to continue sniffing it. The alpha's smell had never been so strong as at that moment. He brought his hands to his crotch, which he began to rub with considerable speed, and at the same time he surprised himself by putting one of them in his underwear until he reached his entrance, from which a large amount of slick was already dripping, he arched his back and inserted one of his fingers there, imagining a large faceless alpha behind him, ready to please him. While with his other hand he was already caressing his penis, which throbbed as the sensations intensified.

Having perceived that smell and feeling it impregnated in his senses had made his skin crawl, his body temperature had risen, and having introduced a second finger was not enough to extinguish that heat.

Shortly after increasing the speed, he came between the hand with which he was caressing his phallus, ending that session of self-pleasure, which left him with a feeling of guilt, annoyance and emotional emptiness. He had masturbated with a stuffed animal… No, he had masturbated with the smell of the alpha he hated so much, which was impregnated in that poor stuffed animal, and not only that, but also in that imaginary faceless alpha of his fantasies the face of Panich had appeared.

He felt like his dignity had disappeared and he would no longer be able to show himself in front of the alpha, what's more, he would no longer be able to show himself in society, and if he didn't want to feel like he was falling even lower, he had to hurry up and clean everything up before Yim came back and noticed what had happened.

-

-

Going back to school meant freedom again, especially freedom from his own hormones. However, when he returned to college, he couldn't help but look around as he walked through the halls; it was already around noon and so far there was no sign of the alpha anywhere.

No one knew that inside his backpack was the small stuffed animal pendant he had received from him, but he preferred to ignore the fact, particularly since he remembered what had happened to him during his heat… Even though it had happened because of the hormones of the heat, just thinking about it still made him feel dirty.

Since his friends had classes, he decided to go to one of the school's gardens; he needed to get some fresh air. But as he went out and headed to one of the outside benches, he heard a "Hey!" nearby. Was it...? At that moment, he felt his heart pounding against his chest, because his return meant that he had to face him.

He turned around, searching for the source of that voice, and found it: on a bench on the other side of the rosebush that separated one row of benches from the others, was the prince's alpha friend. This made him relax a little, but also somewhat disappointed.

- You again? - Was the first thing that came to his mind.

- I'm glad to see you again too, Nunew. - Max replied, walking over to sit on the bench where Nunew was going to sit. - I understand you wanted to see someone else.

He had hit the mark.

-I didn't expect anything. -He replied with a touch of annoyance.

-I heard you haven't been to class these days. -The alpha said.

Nunew didn't answer, he wasn't going to discuss the reason for his absence with an alpha.

-Zee really wanted to talk to you. -Max spoke again, looking for a reaction from the younger one. -He even made me go out with him because he wanted to give you something… since he doesn't know when he'll return to college.

Nunew turned to look at him as soon as he heard that. He didn't want to engage in conversation with that alpha, but damn, he was dying to know what had happened.

-Let's just say that after what happened, his advisor went crazy and overloaded him with work as punishment. - Max explained, staring at him.

- Where is it? - Nunew finally asked, and Max knew he already had him where he wanted him.

-At a meeting. -The elder replied. -But he would like to see you.

Nunew fell silent again.

-If you want, I can take you to him. - Max prompted again.

I want to see him? Never. - Nunew thought.

- How do I know you're not trying to take me with you to do something to me? - Nunew asked suspiciously.

- Do you think I would expose myself to being caught? I would lose a lot Nunew, and what an insult that you think that about me. - He answered with a hand on his chest, and Nunew could swear that he sounded like Zee at that moment, those two were definitely close friends.

Nunew thought about it, if it was true that the alpha would not return soon... Maybe he would have to approach him personally if he wanted to clear his doubts.

-Okay, take me. -Nunew picked up his backpack and walked over to him.

Max smiled, things were going well.

With that, he stood up and started walking with the omega behind him. They walked through the university gardens until they reached the parking lot, and there Max guided him to his car.

-All right, get in. -He said, as he unlocked the doors.

Nunew looked at him again suspiciously.

-Nunew, there are cameras here, if I kidnap you, I'd be damning myself. -He said, knowing what the omega was thinking.

Nunew stared at him for a few more seconds, until he decided to listen to him and agreed to get into the car.

“For heaven's sake, what am I getting myself into?” he said to himself as he opened the passenger door to get in.

Max followed him, getting behind the wheel and, while Nunew put on his seat belt, he took the opportunity to take a photo of him on the sly, which he immediately sent by text to his friend.

- Is something wrong? - Nunew asked a moment later, seeing that the older man was answering his phone instead of starting the car.

-Nothing, I'm just letting Zee know we're on our way. - He replied, then immediately started the car and headed out onto the public road.

- Where exactly are we going? - Nunew asked, carefully observing the interior of the car. It wasn't every day that he got into such an expensive car.

-To Parliament. -Max said, and Nunew looked at him scared.

- Is it even right for us to go there? - The omega questioned him again.

-Well, that's where the meetings with the body of nobles of Spades are held. -Max began to explain without taking his eyes off the road. -But today Zee has to meet with the ambassadors of the other kingdoms. It's not an urgent meeting since it's something that happens constantly, but he must be there representing his father.

Nunew listened with interest to the explanation, for obvious reasons he was not familiar with the actual activities, but he could understand that it was necessary.

-Also, today they received a special guest who made today's meeting more important, so all the more reason Zee should be with him. -He added, glancing at the omega.

Special guest? Nunew wondered who it could be, but decided not to ask, preferring to return his attention to the road, and they eventually remained silent until they reached their destination.

-

To say that the place was big was an understatement; Nunew couldn't help but stop and contemplate that enormous construction, made of granite, with a light blueish tone and large columns adorning the entrance stairs.

Seeing that the omega was sufficiently distracted watching the construction, Max checked his phone, finding that his friend had replied to his message.

“Max!! You kidnapped him??!”

He laughed lightly upon seeing that writing, and replied:

“No, 😋 he came by his own decision”

“By the way, we're here. We'll go to the dining room to wait for you.”

He sent the message and put away his cell phone, he noticed that the omega was still amazed, but he had to interrupt him.

-Nunew. -He called out, causing the younger man to turn to look at him. -Let's go in, we'll wait for him.

Nunew didn't say anything, he just followed the alpha while looking around; since he crossed the entrance threshold, he could see how luxurious every corner of that place was, which made him feel a little uncomfortable, since he was in that kind of place only with jeans, tennis shoes and a white tucked-in t-shirt, which had a drawing of a pink heart in the middle.

They walked through several hallways, Nunew making sure not to lose Max's step, but also looking at every detail around them.

They came to a large wooden double door, which Max opened and gestured for him to go in first. Upon entering, he found that it was some kind of very elegant restaurant, with several tables finely decorated with tablecloths, surrounded by leather seats.

-This is the dining room. - Max said, interrupting his reverie.

- What? - Nunew asked in astonishment. - It's very…

- Ostentatious? It's normal in this kind of places, many important figures come here to eat. - Max answered his question, then began to walk towards one of the tables.

Nunew followed, taking a seat in one of those obviously expensive leather chairs, putting his backpack aside and sitting up straight, nervous of being judged by anyone who might see them.

-Relax, today is a quiet day… - Max commented upon seeing the omega's nervousness, while he took out his phone and looked at the screen. -Oh, they're coming. - He said, making Nunew even more nervous.

- Are they coming? - Nunew asked confused.

A loud noise alerted them that the doors of the cafeteria had opened. When they turned around, they could see Zee, who looked tired, he seemed to have run. He looked around, until finally, he and Nunew met their gazes after several days without seeing each other.

They stared at each other without moving for a few seconds, until the sound of other footsteps and consequently the opening of the door brought them out of their bubble.

- Zee! - exclaimed the man who entered after him. - You ask me to find an excuse to leave the meeting and then you leave me behind.

It was a man, specifically an alpha a little shorter than Zee, with dark skin and slightly long, wavy hair. He was quite handsome, and his all-black clothing stood out, with a perfectly buttoned dark orange blazer, and, above all, at the height of his chest the insignia of a yellow diamond.

It was a similar outfit to Zee's, except that Zee's was blue with a black spade symbol. That somehow already gave him an idea of who that person was.

The stranger made eye contact with Nunew, while Nunew from his table looked nervous at being watched. After that, the man made a soft “oooh” sound and looked back at Zee with a mocking expression.

-So, this was your emergency, right? - he asked, nudging him, then moving forward to where Max and Nunew were.

- Net, where are you going! - Zee exclaimed when he saw him approaching them and followed him.

Nunew watched the stranger approach until he was in front of him.

- Nunew, right? - He asked, surprising Nunew greatly… How did he know his name? What did the other alphas tell him? What was going on?

Zee, for his part, was just as surprised as Nunew, if not more so, by the fact that Net knew his name if he had never told him, so he immediately turned to look at Max, because of course, it was obvious that he was the one responsible for the whole situation. Max just limited himself to hiding behind the restaurant menu.

-Y-yes. -Nunew answered with a slight hesitation. -You... You are the Prince of Diamonds, right? -Nunew expressed the doubt that had been hovering in his mind since he saw him.

Net smiled at the recognition.

-That's right, Net Siraphop Manithikhun, crown prince of the Diamond Throne, it's a pleasure to meet you, Nunew. -He said, extending his hand.

Nunew returned the greeting, and as he extended his hand as well, Net took it and placed a kiss on the back of it.

At the act, Max dropped the letter from his hands, and Zee couldn't have been more disturbed. He didn't know if he was bothered by Net's audacity, or the fact that he didn't know what Max had done behind his back, or the fact that he brought Nunew without asking him, or Net's audacity, or the fact that Nunew acknowledged that Net was a prince, OR NET'S AUDACITY.

- Hey! How come you recognized him as a prince so quickly and not me? - Zee asked Nunew, getting between them, breaking the contact they had.

-Because the Prince of Diamonds is quite a sensation in my kingdom. -Nunew answered proudly. -He is very popular among the omegas of the University of Hearts since he arrived at a conference a few months ago.

-Also, there is a very close relationship between Diamonds and Hearts, Zee, I go on many trips there. -Net said, crossing his arms.

Zee sighed, avoided further questions, and turned to Nunew.

-Come, let's talk away from these two. -He requested. Nunew first frowned at him, but eventually stood up.

Zee guided him between the tables until he was far enough away from the other two alphas.

At that, Net took a seat next to Max.

-Hey, are you going to tell me what's going on here? - Net asked Max. -Look, you and Zee have been very mysterious and don't say anything in the chat group, I had to come personally to find out about my friends' lives. - He said.

Max left the menu on the table because deep down, not so deep down, he was eager to tell him the gossip about Zee.

- Remember that picture I showed you of Zee's beaten face? - Max began, starting with the hot gossip.

-Uh-huh. -Net replied anxiously.

-There you have the person responsible. - Max answered, referring to Nunew.

Net covered his mouth with his hands dramatically.

- Is that the cheeky omega Zee mentioned a while back in the chat? - He asked quite interested, leaning closer to Max.

Max's response was only to smile at him in affirmation.

-

Zee and Nunew reached the back of the room, in front of a large window away from the alphas. When they arrived, they stood face to face, Nunew intertwined one of his hands with the other and looked at him carefully, waiting for what the alpha prince had to say to him.

-First of all, … What excuses did Max bring you here with? -Zee began by asking him.

-He told me he wasn't sure when you were going to go back to school. -First excuse and Zee slapped his forehead internally. -Because your advisor had gone crazy and punished you with a lot of work.

-Well, about college… I manage my time well enough to not miss it, going is also part of my duty as a prince. -He answered the first question. -And about my advisor: Fae goes crazy every day, that's nothing new, but the ones who give me the job are my parents, Fae only helps me with everything.

Nunew looked down and felt embarrassed, Max was looking forward to getting slapped too.

-He also said that you wanted to talk to me. -Nunew commented, his head downcast.

-That's true. -Zee replied firmly, and Nunew looked at him again.

-Nunew, I truly apologize for what happened, I should never have spoken to you that way. -Zee apologized looking him in the eyes, a reason that led Nunew to feel honesty in his words.

In response to those words, Nunew carried his backpack forward and opened it to take out the small stuffed animal.

- And this? - He asked, showing the doll.

-After what happened I felt very guilty, so someone advised me to express my apologies to you with something material, and I decided to go leave him with your friend because you know, you... were on your he... - The alpha didn't finish the sentence because Nunew slammed the stuffed animal on his face.

- Don't say that as if it were just anything! - Nunew exclaimed with a slight reddish tint on his cheeks.

After all, remembering his heat was also remembering what he “did” with the smell of the stuffed animal.

-Hey, it's not like it's anything abnormal. -Zee said, frowning as soon as Nunew stopped slamming the doll into your face.

-Still, don't mention that. -Nunew replied embarrassedly.

-Okay. -Zee said rolling his eyes, and after being silent for a couple of seconds, he spoke again. -You were in heat.

- Stop saying that! - Nunew began to lightly hit his chest with the stuffed animal, while by that moment Zee was already laughing and taking a few steps back, since the omega kept hitting him.

However, that fun moment between the two would end as soon as the sound of the door opening was heard throughout the room. The noise made them jump, and when they turned around, they saw that the person who entered was Fae.

Fae spotted them instantly, so without thinking twice she walked quickly towards them; the clicking of her heels against the floor was the only sound that could be heard, making Zee and Nunew nervous.

Max and Net hid behind the menu at the table, taking care not to miss the show.

Zee instinctively stood in front of Nunew, who looked fearfully at the woman.

- You! - Fae exclaimed, pointing at Nunew.

-Fae, before you think the worst, you should first know why he is here. -Zee told her without letting her get close to the younger.

-Look, Your Majesty, I don't know why you're here and I'd rather not know, but if you're already here, it's important that you talk to him to make some things clear to him. - She replied imposingly.

-Alright. -Nunew replied, stepping out from the alpha's side. -I understand that you wish to speak with me, and I am willing to listen.

Zee didn't interfere any further, he let the two omegas talk to each other.

-Very well. -Fae began. -You have to know that with what you did that day you could have hurt Zee much more than you imagine. -At what was said, Nunew could understand why. -Probably Zee is someone who sometimes provokes you to slap him when he gets stubborn, but that is no reason to do it. I think that both of you are old enough to establish a dialogue instead of going to those extremes. So I ask you that this never happens again, because above all he is the prince of the kingdom that is opening the doors to you during these months.

Nunew's skin crawled upon hearing that.

-After all, they were going to investigate me. -he thought.

-Miss. -Nunew said, getting his attention. -I apologize for what happened, I understand my mistake. Zee… His majesty has already apologized to me for how he spoke to me, so I also want to apologize for hitting him. -He added the last thing, facing him.

-You don't have to, Nunew. -Zee replied simply. -But I accept your apology.

-Okay, now that everything is settled, I don't want to hear about another problem involving the two of you. - She interrupted harshly. -Fortunately, Zee's parents didn't find out about this incident, so this case is closed. Now, in ten minutes the last session starts, Zee, so I want you there on time. - She exclaimed, pointing to her wristwatch. With that, she turned her back on them and headed for the exit.

However, before reaching the door he stopped in front of the alphas' table and looked at Net.

-I want you there soon too, remember that while you are here, you are in our care. - She indicated pointing at him, without softening her words, to which Net nodded and frightened he watched her leave.

As the door closed, Zee and Nunew looked at each other.

-I told you, Fae goes crazy every day. -Zee commented. -Anyway, Net and I have to get back to the last session. -He announced, looking at his watch. He paused a bit nervously and looked at the omega. -Do you still have any classes?

-No, I had the last one before coming. -The omega answered.

-Well, the last session won't last long, as soon as I get out I'll take you to the student residence, if you don't mind. - the alpha announced.

Nunew shook his head, he couldn't afford to be defensive at this point.

-In the meantime, order whatever you want from the kitchen and have it put on my tab, Max will help you while I finish my meeting. -Zee said, and at that moment he noticed that the omega's eyes had lit up. -What's wrong? -he asked.

-Nothing. -The omega replied smiling. -I guess we can get along.

Nunew was actually not difficult to deal with: offer him food and his walls will fall.

-

-

After the meeting, Zee and Net met Max and Nunew again at the exit of Parliament. Upon arriving, the first thing Zee noticed was Max carrying a bag with what looked like two boxes of food inside.

-Wow, are we having a picnic? - Net asked from beside him.

-They're yours. -Max said, referring to Nunew.

-They're for my friends. -Nunew corrected, looking at him angrily.

-I liked the idea of the picnic. -Net whined. -You guys are just having fun without me.

-Sure Net, I'm sure these weeks have been a lot of fun for me. -Zee replied, highlighting his sarcasm.

-For me they have been. - Max smiled.

-Insensitive. -Zee told him with a frown.

-You see? I miss everything and they don't tell me. - Net complained again, looking at Zee.

-I think you've been very well informed. -Zee told him, then turned his gaze to Max, who looked away instantly.

Nunew was in the middle of the discussion, just watching them and wondering what his brother would say if he knew he was in the kingdom's Parliament, in the middle of three alphas arguing like children.

-Nunew. -Net called him. - How about when I get back, the four of us have a picnic? I think we're friends now.

Nunew went from expressionless to displeased and was quick in his response.

-I'm not friends with this guy. -He replied, pointing at Zee.

-Hey, I thought everything was okay! -Zee exclaimed.

-Yes, but we were never friends. -he replied and stuck his tongue out at him. - Now let's go, I've been missing from home for a long time.

Zee sighed in resignation, and held out his hand for Max to give him Nunew's food.

-I'll drop him off at the student residence, see you at the palace when I get back. -Zee said to his friends.

-Bye Nunew. -Net waved goodbye. -When I get back, let's do something fun. We can leave Zee in the car.

Zee glared at him and Nunew returned the farewell in kind. The two then disappeared down the road to the parking lot.

- What is your conclusion? - Net asked Max, crossing his arms.

-I don't know, buddy, they're always fighting, but I also see Zee strangely interested in keeping him happy. - Max answered, leaning against one of the columns.

-I think our boy is starting to grow up. -Net said finally.

-

-

Nunew was once again surprised to find himself in another luxury car. That day had undoubtedly been the strangest of his life: twice in expensive cars, a ride through Parliament, a meeting with the Prince of Diamonds, a reprimand from one of the advisers and, above all, the food from the Parliament kitchen, which was exceptional.

-You could move the bag to the back seats. -Zee commented when he saw him with the bag on the backpack that rested on his legs.

-Okay, I'll take it safely this way. -The omega replied. -Don't you have a driver?

-Yes, but sometimes I want to drive myself, I like my space. -Zee started the car and drove off. -Is it for Yim then? -He asked referring to the food.

-That's right, and the other one for Tutor. - Nunew affirmed. - Yim has been sending me messages every moment since I told him where I was.

A chill ran down Zee's spine as he remembered Yim, his two encounters with him had been enough to understand that he was an omega to be feared.

- Do you think he's going to hit me? - He asked.

-Probably. -Nunew answered without looking at him… and then started laughing.

Out of the corner of his eye, Zee could see the omega laughing with a hand covering his mouth. It was the first time he had seen him so animated, since until that moment they had only interacted by arguing.

-Of course not, Yim is not like that. -Nunew said again. -He just cares a lot about me, but he doesn't really see you as someone bad.

-Thank goodness, -Zee said. -I can't imagine what it would be like if he saw me like that.

-Hey, your friends aren't the most normal. -Nunew said, narrowing his eyes. -I remind you that one of them took me there with lies.

-I'll deal with Max later. -The alpha replied. -He won't get away with it.

-You three seem very close. -Nunew commented, leaning his head against the headrest of the seat.

-The three of us have known each other our whole lives. -Zee answered, beginning to explain. -Net and I, for obvious reasons, have always been together since we are the only heirs in a similar age range, and Max practically grew up in the palace with me because his grandfather and father have been royal officials.

Nunew listened with interest, he truly believed that everyone had an interesting story to tell. The alpha was no exception, even if he still disliked him… Although he was beginning to question that now.

-That's why you and Max look inseparable. -Nunew commented.

-Let's say so. -Zee answered with a thoughtful expression. -Regardless of how different we are, he is the person I trust the most in the kingdom, so when I take over as king, he will be my chosen one to be the Ace.

Nunew was a little surprised to hear that, he didn't know much about royal appointments, but he knew that the King's Ace was the highest position among the nobility, being the one at the King's right hand and serving him in different areas, especially in matters of the army and other important decisions.

-Wow… -Nunew could only say that.

They stopped at a traffic light; Nunew was still leaning against the seat, looking at him. Because of the time, the sunset let a beam of light fall into the car, crossing right through Nunew's spot, so that when Zee turned to look at him he found him illuminated by the sunlight. It was a moment when Zee felt as if the noise around him didn't exist, he paid attention to the omega's features as he hadn't been able to before, and, especially, when they looked into each other's eyes, a small beat in his chest told him that what he was seeing seemed really beautiful.

He knew a lot of omegas, he couldn't lie that throughout his life many omegas declared their love for him, but the beauty of all of them never had any effect on him. So, this was definitely something new in his life.

He internally slapped his face to snap out of it, wanting to ignore what he had thought and turn his attention back to the road, as the traffic light was about to turn green again. He had to be clear that the omega next to him didn't like him and they were together at that moment only for academic reasons.

- But there are other positions, aren't there? - Nunew asked, bringing him back to reality as they set off again. - I don't know much about that, but Max told me that kings aren't kings without their royal court, and that you would announce yours at some point.

Zee was taken by surprise to hear the omega being so curious, which made him seriously wonder how much he talked to Max while he was gone.

-There are two at the top of the royal court. -Zee explained. -The Ace of the King and the Jack. The Jack is chosen by the Queen… But in this case the Jack will be my choice since there will be no Queen. -He added that with some discomfort in his words. -I prefer to keep my reasons to myself.

-I understand. -Nunew replied, noticing the discomfort and preferring not to ask further.

Max had also told him again that Zee was someone who was sometimes inexplicable, even to him who was so close.

At that moment, even if only for a little, something inside him ignited with curiosity to know more about this strange prince.

Zee was stubborn, but deeply kind. Zee was reactive, but aware and mature enough to face the consequences. Zee could be childlike, but he was a man who did not run away from his responsibilities and always stood up for himself. Zee was odd, but sweet and accommodating to anyone who needed him.

They parked in front of the room, seeing that the lights were already on. Nunew took his bag of food and opened the door, realizing that it wouldn't be that easy to get out if he didn't want to spill something.

But while he was distracted by getting settled, he didn't notice when Zee got out of the car and walked to his door to help him carry his things. That way, Nunew was able to get out of the car without any problems.

-Thank you. -Nunew said, embarrassed. -I wouldn't want anything to spill.

Zee couldn't answer because someone's voice -already expected- interrupted them.

- You two! - Yim shouted, pointing at both of them. - Isn't it too late for you to arrive at this hour?!

He was leaving the building at a quick pace, with an impassive Tutor following him; for that young alpha, that type of drama was already common in his life since he had arrived there and met Yim.

Zee showed his palms as soon as he saw him, as if he were a policeman.

- Nunew it's getting dark, I was getting worried and I was about to go out to the streets to shout your name! - Yim exclaimed, already close enough.

-Muyim, don't exaggerate... Look, I brought you food. -Nunew held out the bag, changing the subject.

- Really? Give me here. -Yim took the bag and Nunew smiled, he already knew what his friend was like and that's why he prepared an offering to return.

-Thank you very much for bringing Nunew safely, your majesty. - Tutor said, bowing to Zee.

-No problem Tutor, you don't have to worry, he was in one of the safest places in the kingdom. - Zee answered, glad that at least he remembered his status as a prince. -So, if you'll excuse me, I must leave now.

Nunew turned to him upon hearing that, logically the alpha had to leave.

-Okay, Uhm… Then I'll see you at school. -Nunew said, looking down and rubbing his other arm with his right hand. -Thanks for bringing me.

For Zee, the surprises with the omega didn't end, something felt different and he could only smile and nod.

-Thanks for bringing it, but remember, I've got my eye on it. -Yim told him challengingly.

Zee just laughed lightly and waved goodbye before getting into his car.

As he left, he could see in the rearview mirror the trio of friends heading back inside the building.

He sighed again, unable to imagine how that day would end. He seriously thought about how he would now have to deal with the fact that he was apparently starting to feel that omega as a part of his life.

-

Chapter Text

They saw each other again until it was their turn to go to class together again. They returned to the routine where they arrived and took their places in silence, avoiding showing that they noticed the other's existence.

The first few minutes together passed in total silence. Nunew was paying attention to his cell phone and Zee was staring at a fixed point without moving, which caught the omega's attention, who began to observe him out of the corner of his eye. The alpha seemed tired, but preferred not to ask anything.

After a while, Zee leaned back in his chair and stretched out his arms. He noticed the omega was subtly looking at him, so he raised his eyebrows in his direction as a greeting.

In response, Nunew stuck out his tongue at him.

Zee found it funny to see that gesture from the omega again, so somewhere in his head he came up with a kiss gesture to annoy him.

That's where it stopped being funny because he got slapped in the leg as a result.

- Hey! What's wrong? - He answered, rubbing the injured area. Although the omega's blow hadn't been really strong, Zee liked to dramatize the matter.

-That's what you get for being daring. -Nunew replied, crossing his arms.

- Me, daring? That's what you wish Nunew, I'm a gentleman first and foremost. - said Zee, beating his chest.

-Uh-huh. -Nunew replied mockingly.

Zee pouted, but avoided reacting verbally to it.

-So, did your friends like the food? - Zee suddenly changed the topic, before they ended up arguing.

Nunew looked at him in a brief silence and continued the conversation.

-Tutor said it was very good, but Yim said that the food made him feel like he had been eating like a rat rummaging through garbage dumpsters all his life. -The omega replied, giving the details in a funny way.

At this response Zee stifled a laugh, Yim stood out for his eloquence and he could sense it in that description.

-This time I agree with him. -Nunew said, bringing his hands to his cheeks. Remembering that meal immediately put him in a good mood.

Zee could put on his list of important data that this omega's mood was changed with food.

- Did you talk to Max like you told me? - Nunew asked, moving on to a new topic.

-I did, he got the scold of his life. But then he and Net invaded my room for the rest of the night having a sleepover, at least until Net had to go to sleep because he left very early for his kingdom. - Zee answered remembering his sleepless night.

-His Majesty Net is very handsome -Nunew said suddenly, making Zee's hair stand on end with that comment.

-His majesty Net also sweet-talks every omega he meets. - Zee replied and Nunew frowned at that.

- How can you talk like that about your friend? - Nunew asked. - You're just jealous because he's more handsome than you.

Zee's face was a poem at that statement, so he settled into his seat sideways, facing the omega.

-I say this because I know him, besides… Am I jealous? Why would I be jealous? Just look at me. -He said pointing at his face. -I'm handsome, many omegas have declared their love for me.

Nunew scooted his chair a few inches away from him and covered his ears with his hands.

-I am determined not to argue with you, - he replied.

-Hey, I'm not arguing with you, I'm pointing out a point. -Zee continued to complain, but Nunew only responded with a loud "blahblahblah" so as not to hear him.

-Good afternoon, guys. Sorry I'm late. - Said the professor, who had entered the classroom while they were arguing, so they hadn't noticed.

Immediately they both settled down properly and acted as if nothing had happened.

-

-

As the class period ended, both Zee and Nunew left at the same time. Both were trying hard to maintain a good relationship, so an impending silence formed.

For one, Zee didn't exactly know how to behave; for starters, he'd never had an omega friend. The omegas he had around were members of his family and/or part of the work at the palace, meaning he didn't have a close relationship with them. Perhaps the omega he was most confident with was Fae, but Fae was in a very different position than Nunew.

On the other hand, Nunew did associate with alpha friends, like Tutor, for example, but that was a very different case. In addition, he still refused to give that stubborn prince any confidence.

As they walked, a voice alerted them both; it was a woman.

- Your Majesty! - She exclaimed, approaching.

Nunew saw her, she was a beta woman older than him, probably closer to Zee's age, quite pretty. She was wearing a jacket with the institution's logo, so he guessed she must be a teacher or an employee.

-Miss Aom, is something wrong? - Zee answered when he saw her arrive.

-I need to talk to you, could you come with me for a moment? -She said.

-Of course. -Zee answered and looked at the omega who was still watching them. -See you later Nunew. -He said goodbye and left with the woman.

What had that been?

Nunew still didn't move from there, in fact, he watched them walk away. At that moment the idea came to his head that maybe the alpha liked betas and that was why he was single.

Why did I have to be thinking about that?

It was strange, it was like seeing a different Zee than the one he had known for days. They weren't even friends, but by that point he had already had a concept of that alpha, so seeing him with that woman left a bitter taste in his mouth.

-

-

-

Because the weather was nice, he and his friends chose to sit together at some tables outside.

Lunch was going normally; everyone was telling trivial things about their student life. Even little Leo was joining them again. The monotony was interrupted when Yim put his hand on his shoulder to tell him something.

-Nunew, look over there. - He whispered in his ear, which also caught the attention of his other two friends and the subtlety died as soon as both of them turned their necks sharply to find out the news.

Nearby, under the shade of a tree, was the alpha prince, surrounded by a few students who were making notes in their notebooks.

After that afternoon when he saw him leave with that woman, he did not see him again for a few days. He assumed that he must be immersed in his work as a prince, so it had not seemed strange to him.

But that didn't seem like a very academic thing to him, or at least he didn't perceive it that way.

-It's part of your tutoring. - Leo commented, drawing the attention of the rest.

-Ahh, that's it. -Yim answered, losing his curiosity.

-Explain yourself. -asked Tutor, who, like Nunew, was unaware of any details about the university.

-The advisor asked Prince Zee to help us with some classes to learn how the institution and the kingdom work. -He explained. -It's only for first graders, she said we should take advantage of the fact that the prince is at our university.

-And the first-year omegas are definitely enjoying it. - Yim said venomously, then took a sip of his drink.

Yim's comment was based on the fact that the students could be seen laughing amongst themselves and looking at the alpha before nudging each other... It was pretty obvious.          

Zee seemed to be having a fun conversation with the students as he was also seen laughing at times.

What if the “type of omegas” that Zee likes – which he doesn’t fit into – are female omegas? That doubt crossed his mind, it made a lot of sense… It would be something very normal for a member of royalty, right?

-The omegas and betas in my group also have a crush on him, he's someone who's hard to compete against. -Leo added, interrupting his thoughts. -Prince Zee is not only handsome, but he's also very nice to everyone.

Nunew continued to stare at the alpha, but now with a hardened expression; after all, that was what Zee bragged about and that already upset him enough. He was so distracted remembering the fact that he didn't notice that the alpha was now looking in his direction. Was he looking at him? It was hard to tell, since he had dark glasses on. But when he noticed that his friends were waving at him, he could confirm that he was indeed looking at him.

“Traitors,” he thought, looking at his friends.

-

Their lunch time coincided with the time the alpha finished his meeting with the first graders, so the alpha prince approached them before they returned to the building.

That meeting fell entirely on Nunew.

- Back to your classes? - the alpha asked, taking off his glasses.

- Aren't you here to brag that you were surrounded by omegas? What a surprise! - The omega replied sarcastically.

- Why would I? I have no need to brag about anything. - Zee replied, smiling at him.

Nunew rolled his eyes, but an idea came to his mind and he preferred to clarify a doubt that was floating around in his head.

-Instead of being boastful, you better confirm to me that we only coincided in history class. -He questioned him.

Seeing the alpha tending to different groups made him wonder how many he was supporting.

-I'm not a student, I'm just a volunteer, Nunew. - He answered, still unsure of the reason for that question.

- And the clubs? The clubs started this week. - Nunew asked, poking the alpha's chest with his index finger.

Wow, that could count as a sign that they were making progress in getting closer... Although, in theory, the idea was that they were supposed to avoid each other.

-It depends, which one are you in? - Zee asked.

-Cooking club. -The omega replied, waiting for the answer.

-No. -Zee replied, and Nunew breathed a sigh of relief.

- And in the dance club? - he asked for the second time.

-No. -Zee replied. -I don't really volunteer for any clubs.

- Couldn't you have started there? - Nunew asked, looking at him annoyed.

-No. -Zee replied, smiling mockingly.

- Stupid. - The omega said and pinched his abdomen.

-You're doing it again. -Zee complained, rubbing the pinched spot.

-You're the one who starts. - Nunew scolded. -Now, if you'll excuse me, we have to go.

Nunew turned around to look for his friends and found no one… When…?

-They sat back down. -Zee said, pointing at them.

His friends greeted him from the table where they had been sitting previously.

How much time had he spent arguing with the alpha?

-

-

His first day at the cooking club was beginning, he had taken a place at a table next to an omega girl apparently from first grade and a rather tall beta boy. All three wore blue aprons belonging to the institution. His classmates seemed nice, he found it comfortable that in this type of activities it was not common for there to be alphas, so the atmosphere felt relaxed, according to him.

Nunew hadn't joined the club precisely because he liked to cook, but because he liked to eat, then it was perfect for him.

His teacher was an older omega female, rather sweet and nice to the class, so it couldn't be better. But since his life was now seemingly set to <strong emotions> mode, his peace went down the drain as soon as he saw the alpha who had changed his existence weeks ago walk through the door.

Didn't he say he wasn't volunteering for any club?

-Guys, His Majesty Zee will keep us company today, so make him feel welcome. - The woman said, giving way to the group's applause.

Zee met his gaze, which remained fixed on him, letting him see his displeasure.

Something that caught his attention was that this time Zee was wearing only a black short-sleeved t-shirt, showing off his thick arms that showed evidence of the work he had done at the gym, and over it he was already wearing his apron, something new to see on him. After all, it was usual to see the alpha wearing coats, blazers or even jackets, avoiding looking too casual, but still being comfortable.

Needless to say, the alpha joined them at their table to work, especially since they happened to be a small team and could use his help.

-You're not going to execute me just by looking at me ugly, Nunew. -Zee said in a low voice as he stood close to him.

-You're a liar. -The omega replied, annoyed.

-I'm not a liar, I told you that I'm not a volunteer for the clubs, today is just an exception because it's the first day. -He explained.

-For today I'll pretend I believe you. -Nunew replied, realizing that his companions were already looking at them.

-Okay, guys, we're going to start preparing the cookie dough, so start taking measurements in your measuring cups. -Indicated their teacher, starting the activity.

In this way they would have to work as a team again, now with kitchen utensils near them. Well, he had to keep calm in this situation.

Nunew dedicated himself to concentrating on making his dough, he had to focus his interest on his day ending well, eating cookies and not arguing with an alpha.

-Your Majesty… Could you help me please?

The person who called for help was the girl who was with them at the table, who had apparently spilled some flour.

-I can't believe you're even stupid enough to do that, Noey. - Said the other boy next to her.

-I'm not stupid, it was an accident Ping. -She claimed to the tall boy.

-Don't worry, I'll help you, but please don't fight. -Zee said and moved to stand next to her.

Nunew made a face of disgust at hearing this, “He sounds so fake acting so serious,” he thought. So, he decided to continue with his own work and ignore him… The problem was that he found it impossible not to glance sideways at how Zee worked alongside the girl.

His idea that Zee liked female omegas came back, seeing him so close to her explaining how to take a simple measurement (that's what he thought, with great emphasis), and he wouldn't be surprised if he could be interested in Noey, after all she was pretty, thin, small and very tender.

While that was happening, the other boy subtly slid closer to Nunew.

-Look how she takes advantage of the situation to get closer to the prince. - He whispered in his ear, leaving him with a confused expression.

- Really? - He answered in a low voice. Not that that surprised him anyway.

-She's not going to miss any opportunity. -The tall boy told him again.

When he saw them again, he found Zee explaining to him how to mix the ingredients with the hand mixer; the girl was holding the instruments and the alpha was explaining everything to her very closely.

She could probably smell the alpha's minty lavender scent from that distance.

Probably if he was interested in the girl, he was finally going to stop following him to bother him.

He could even settle his issues with the Spades noble corps and make Noey his Queen.

Maybe.

He didn't realize it, but his whisk had fallen to the floor, rolling and leaving stains in its wake.

He realized when he looked down and discovered that it was no longer on the plate, so he searched for it, and accidentally stepped on it, breaking it.

Zee looked at the omega picking up the utensil. He watched as he silently picked it up and stared at it, it was broken.

He left the girl and walked over to Nunew, who was silently looking at the instrument, so he took it from his hands. He turned it over, examining it until he could say something to him.

-It's not that bad, but it would be complicated to use it like this now. -He said, trying to comfort him when he saw that his gaze had a sad expression. -Thank goodness we have spare equipment; I'll go ask for a new one. -He said again and the omega just nodded.

Zee left him alone for a moment as he went to open one of the kitchen drawers. From there he took out a new whisk and brought it to Nunew.

-This one will be fine for today, - he said, but Nunew still didn't say a word. - Did they cut out your tongue? Or you just don't know how to make cookie dough, - Zee teased him, trying to get him to talk.

-Shut up. -Nunew finally said, trying to hide his smile. He then poked him in the abdomen with the whisk handle, then got down to business and continued with his task.

Zee, for his part, pulled up a stool and sat down opposite him, resting one of his elbows on the table and simply watching him beat the dough.

Nunew felt watched, but despite that, he felt more comfortable like this, and not having to see the alpha stuck to the omega girl.

The class continued without a new interruption, all while Zee watched attentively as Nunew followed the recipe step by step. Due to the problem with the whisk, Nunew was a few minutes behind his classmates, so he had to wait and be one of the last to use the oven. Meanwhile, his two table companions had already taken out their cookies and now had them on the table to decorate.

During that time Nunew had just sat down to wait, taking advantage of the time to clear his workspace and prepare the frosting for his cookies. The alpha was still sitting next to him, helping him with that. Those were perhaps the longest minutes they had gone without having some kind of argument.

At least that was until they heard the girl speak again.

-Your Majesty, could you help me decorate? - She asked, her voice sweet.

Nunew's mood soured again as soon as he heard her, but he avoided showing any expression at it, simply staying silent as Zee stood up and returned to the girl.

He sighed and continued with his work, that didn't have to bother him... However, it did and it made him nervous.

Couldn't that girl stop being so obvious and get to work instead of "hunting" alphas?

In his opinion, it wasn't exactly because he was upset that she was staying with Zee, but because she was giving the omega gender a bad image.

Seeing the alpha holding the girl's hands, who in turn held the pastry bag, he felt a strong desire to grab the plate and smash it against the table... But he couldn't do that, he had to breathe and stay calm.

When the hell did that alpha have to agree to volunteer in his class? The fact that he was there was just distracting and annoying him.

At least after a few moments his cookies were ready and he went to get them to decorate.

He had prepared his pink frosting and placed it in his pastry bag, ready to get to work and ignore the others. However, he couldn't help but look over to where they were, but the alpha was no longer there.

Where had he gone?

-I think you might be interested in this. -Zee said, startling him. He was standing over him, offering him a jar of sprinkles.

He put a hand to his chest.

- You almost scared me to death! -He complained.

-Sorry, I didn't know you were so focused. -Zee replied and sat down next to him again. -I saw that you didn't have any of these and I remembered that there were some in the supplies.

When had he noticed that? He certainly hadn't worn any and he didn't want to ask his classmates for any.

So now he could finally start putting on his frosting, all with complete concentration… until he saw that Zee had taken a little bit with his finger to taste it.

- Don't put your finger in it! - Nunew exclaimed.

-It's good. -Zee said as he tasted it. He took a little more to offer to Nunew. -Relax a little, I don't have any illnesses. -He then placed the frosting on his finger on Nunew's nose.

Nunew didn't stay calm and took a little of the frosting from his pastry bag on his finger and ran it over the alpha's cheek.

A situation that caught the attention of his classmates, who seemed horrified that Nunew had dared to cover the prince with icing.

-We're even. -Nunew said triumphantly. Zee just smiled.

-Guys, what's going on here? - Said the teacher, who appeared next to them by surprise. -Chawarin, be respectful to his majesty. - She scolded him, and Nunew looked at him scared.

-Don't worry, professor, it was mutual. -Zee said beforehand, pointing at the omega's nose.

-I see, but it is still your duty to behave in the kitchen. -She said again.

-We know, and please excuse me. -Nunew said, embarrassed.

-As soon as you finish, I expect you to help me clean the kitchen, okay? - The woman added.

They both answered affirmatively and the teacher left.

Now Nunew looked at Zee angrily, how many more times was he going to get involved in embarrassing situations because of the alpha?

-

-

As soon as class was over, they stayed in the room as promised; the teacher had given them instructions about cleaning and left them alone.

At that time, the light filtered through the window, allowing them to see that dusk was approaching while they were cleaning tables.

- How many more times do I have to get into trouble for an alpha who can't control his impulses? - Nunew wondered out loud as he rubbed a table, making sure Zee heard him.

-Hey, I'm not the one who's starting to get grumpy. - Zee answered from another table.

-But you always start the problems. -Nunew emphasized, pointing at him with the rag in his hand.

-That's not true. -Zee contradicted.

-Alphas are like wild, impulsive children. -Nunew continued through clenched teeth. -Definitely, if I ever have a child, I would prefer it to be an omega, it's less problematic.

-You're being prejudiced. -Zee replied about the negative connotation towards his gender.

-I'm not being prejudiced; I'm making a decision based on what I've seen of them. -Nunew replied, turning his gaze towards him.

-You don't even know me that well Nunew. -Zee said, returning his gaze. He dropped the rag and started walking towards him. -If you gave yourself the chance to get to know me, you'd find that I'm a good person.

The room bathed in the orange of the sunset, coupled with the alpha's slow walk towards him, made Nunew go on the defensive.

Nunew still didn't want to trust him, so the first thing he thought was that Zee would make some dirty comment characteristic of alphas, so he wanted to make it clear that he wasn't going to fall for it.

So, looking around he saw that there was a spoon that had not yet been put away and he took it.

-We're still in the kitchen, come closer and I'll cut it off for you. - He said, threatening him with the spoon, pointing at his crotch with it.

Zee paused, his gaze also lowering to his little friend's spot. Wow, he never expected such a threat. However, he connected a quick response.

-I don't think you can do it with a spoon, Nunew, and if you cut it you won't be able to have fun with it anymore. -he replied mockingly.

Nunew was cold at that comment.

His immediate action was to drop the spoon on the table.

-Okay. -He said simply, and turned to go to the back of the room.

Zee saw Nunew open the door to the cleaning cellar and walk in. He instantly freaked out, had he made him feel bad?

But his doubt was dispelled as soon as he saw him come out again, now with a broom in his hand... approaching him.

-Nunew… What's the broom for? We're not done with the tables yet. - He began to back away as the omega came closer, taking the broom by the handle, but upside down, with the bristles facing up. - Nunew?...

PLOP!

…The broom almost hit him.

- Nunew no! - He exclaimed frightened, moving quickly between the tables, being chased by the omega.

- Now tell your little friend that my broom wants to meet him! - The omega shouted, chasing him.

-Nunew!! I was just kidding!!

NUNEW NO!!

-

-

-

Max thought it was strange that his friend was taking so long, so he decided to go look for him personally, it wouldn't hurt to make sure he was okay. So, he walked down the hall straight to the kitchen, looking at his wristwatch. It was late and he hadn't received any text from Zee yet.

Already in the hallway where the living room was located, he saw that there was another person approaching, he had seen him before, it was Nunew's omega friend.

Yim noticed the alpha's presence and waved at him, a gesture that Max responded to in the same way.

- Are you looking for Nunew? - Max asked curiously.

- Yes, it's already late and he hasn't called me so I came to see if he's still here, I'm afraid something might have happened to him. - Yim replied. - Are you here for something?

-There are two of us, Zee is nowhere to be found. -Max explained. -He had cleared his schedule to only come to the cooking class and then we were going to a friend's bar, but he doesn't even answer my messages.

-Nunew had a cooking class - Yim said, staring at him, and Max understood everything. -We have to hurry.

Yim ran to the door of the cooking class, but before he opened it, he pressed his ear against the door.

In the background he could hear the alpha and omega loudly exclaiming things he couldn't understand, so he immediately opened the door and they entered.

They looked around and…

-FUCK! - Max exclaimed when he saw that, in the background, behind the tables, his friend was on the floor... laughing? with the omega almost mounted on top of him; in fact, he was lying next to him with one leg crossed over his torso. There was also a broom lying next to them.

- Nunew! - Yim shouted in horror.

Nunew was startled and sat up immediately.

- It's not what it looks like! It was all his fault! - Nunew shouted from the ground, pointing at the alpha lying next to him.

- What?! - Zee exclaimed.

- Now, dare to repeat in front of them what you told me! - Nunew shouted at him, trying to move him by the abdomen.

- It was just a joke! - The alpha answered, covering his abdomen, since the movement was tickling him.

-My God. -Max said, putting a hand to his forehead.

Beside him, Yim's jaw nearly dropped at the situation.

Nunew failed to get Zee to repeat his words and Max reminded them that a teacher might arrive and they would be in serious trouble if he saw them like that.

They stood up to brush themselves off and then explained how they had gotten to the floor: Nunew said that Zee had said something rude to him; Zee told them that Nunew chased him with a broom; and they both explained that Zee sat on the floor to avoid the blows of the broom and Nunew simply slipped, falling on him and rolling to one side.

“That still sounds like a lousy excuse,” Max thought.

So, due to the inconvenience caused, Zee told Nunew to leave with Yim because it was late for them, he would stay with Max and finish cleaning.

Nunew agreed, seeing that he had already worried Yim too much, and retreated, leaving only the two alphas in the room.

The positive thing was that he finished cleaning up what was left faster.

- What is your intention in bothering him? - asked Max, after having tried to get details out of him, without good results.

-It was in my defense. -Zee replied, putting away a few last items in the drawers.

Zee didn't normally say vulgar things like the one he had said to the omega; however, he had spent his entire life among friends and alpha mates, so hearing that kind of rude jokes was very common. That, coupled with the fact that he had never had an omega friend, resulted in something like that slipping out of his mouth, believing it to be no big deal, mainly because there was no authority figure around to keep him in his formal princely stance. At the same time, it also denoted the trust he felt with Nunew, but it still wasn't right. He made a mental note that even if there was a lot of trust, omegas don't react the same as alphas to that kind of jokes.

-Zee, be careful with him, you already managed to solve things once, but don't tempt fate. -Max said, scolding him.

-He wasn't even that upset when he left. -The alpha prince defended himself again, approaching the table to get his things.

-Anyway Zee, why don't you just avoid him and be done with it? - Max continued to tell him, but Zee seemed to just ignore him.

When he got to the table where he had put his belongings, he found on some napkins several cookies that the boys in the class had left for him, especially on one side were the ones for the omega girl and the beta boy; all in gratitude for his support. But there was a third cookie near theirs, one with pink frosting and colored sprinkles.

A smile appeared on his face and he put them away in his briefcase.

-It's not that bad Max, everything is fine. -The alpha said ready to leave. -Shall we go now?

.

.

The next class together came soon, Zee arrived at the classroom and, as usual, the omega was already there with his phone in his hands.

He silently sat next to him, watching as the omega remained unfazed by his presence.

After a few seconds of sitting down, he sighed, stretched out his back and searched for something in his briefcase.

Nunew was actually looking at him very discreetly, without saying anything. But as soon as he saw what the alpha took out of his briefcase, he allowed himself to be surprised and look at him directly.

In Zee's hands was a box with a picture of a whisk on it.

-I took yours to get fixed, but this one was also in the store and since yours was going to stay there until it was ready, I thought I'd bring you this one in the meantime. - The alpha explained to the surprise of the younger, while taking a pastel pink whisk out of the box.

“It’s just a mixer, it’s not that big of a deal ,” were the thoughts that were running through Nunew’s head.

-Go ahead, take it, it's a gift. -The alpha said, holding it out to him.

Nunew took him at his word and grabbed him.

-I… Thanks, but it was just a whisk, you didn't have to… - Nunew answered, not knowing exactly what to say.

-I wanted to do it, I didn't want you to be sad about the other one. -Zee replied, closing the briefcase.

As he looked at the object, Nunew felt his heart pounding. It wasn't the whisk itself, it was the action that was making him feel this way, the alpha was caring about his feelings.

Damn, he felt like his inner omega was squealing at how cute the alpha seemed.

Zee, for his part, wasn't doing this to look for something in return. In fact, he couldn't forget the tears that welled up in Nunew's eyes when he saw his broken whisk on the day of class. It was a tool that he had brought himself, and probably bought with the effort of his parents. For many, it might have been just a simple, inexpensive kitchen utensil, but his parents were already making an effort to keep their son with all the comforts possible being so far from home, even with a scholarship.

He may have been a prince who had grown up with ease, but he was not ignorant of other people's difficulties.

Also, after everything that happened, he couldn't bear to see the omega cry again, he felt he had to do something so he wouldn't be sad.

Maybe Max was right and he was going crazy.

-Plus, the cookie tasted really good, thanks. -Zee added, watching him inspect the utensil.

Nunew stopped what he was doing, feeling somewhat embarrassed by what the alpha had mentioned.

-It was a courtesy… you also helped me - he said almost in a whisper.

-Good morning, guys. - The professor greeted as he entered the classroom, breaking the conversation they were having.

Nunew put away his new whisk and took out his supplies for class. Zee just stared at him silently, still quite distracted, but was startled when his phone started vibrating in his pocket. He searched for it silently, and seeing that the professor was still talking, he decided to answer silently, ducking his head so as not to interrupt. Nunew saw what the alpha was doing, and was able to hear part of the call due to the low noise in the classroom.

You have to leave now, the fainting was sudden and he is receiving emergency care right now.

Nunew could see how Zee turned pale and could not articulate a word.

Are you still there? Mark has already gone to get you, he should be here soon, hurry up and get out.

-Y-yes, I'm going there. -He answered very nervously.

Was it about his father? Nunew thought.

Zee hung up the call and looked at the professor, who, seeing his terrified expression, had no doubt that something serious had happened.

-Your Majesty, come out if you have an emergency. - The professor told him worriedly.

-Thank you. -Zee replied, unable to say anything else. He took his things and looked at Nunew before leaving.

-I have to go, see you later. -He said, he took his briefcase and walked quickly out of the room.

Nunew saw that his classmates also looked dismayed, some whispering things to each other and the tension was palpable.

Zee didn't look right; he hadn't seen him like this before. Not even his expression on the day of the slapping incident gave off such a heavy vibe as the one he had witnessed now.

It was no wonder the group was scared, because if something bad was happening to the prince, it was something that could also be bad for the kingdom.

In the end he couldn't hold it in any longer, he put his things away and stood up.

-Professor, excuse me, but I have to leave. - He said, clasping his hands in apology. He didn't wait for a response and simply left the classroom quickly.

As he left the living room he began to run, he would worry about the consequences later. He walked down the hall and down the stairs until he could see the prince a few meters away from him in the hallway.

-Zee!! -He screamed at the top of his lungs.

At the scream, Zee stopped, finding the omega running up to him.

- Nunew! -Zee shouted, frightened at seeing him. - Why are you here?

-I'm going with you. -The shorter one answered, approaching. -I don't think you should go alone. Did something happen with your father? You're very disturbed. -He said worriedly.

-That's right, the doctor is treating him right now. - said the alpha, trying to appear calm. -But don't worry, my driver is coming for me.

-Anyway, it's… safer if you have company. - The omega said, looking down. - Can't I?

Nunew raised his worried gaze to him, and Zee couldn't resist that.

-Okay. -Zee smiled, and took him by the hand. -Let's go quickly then.

Zee started running, being careful not to go too fast so that Nunew could keep up.

With his hand connected to the prince's, in addition to feeling shaky, Nunew felt a heat rise to his cheeks.

But he had to be firm and conscious, he didn't even know where they were going.

Chapter Text

Mark found himself in an unusual situation, so unusual that he felt the need to pinch himself to make sure he wasn't asleep: In the back seat was his boss, Prince Zee, and up to that point that was totally normal, what was not so normal was that next to the prince was traveling a young omega whom he had never seen before.

It all started when he went to look for the prince; he was ordered to pick him up at the university to take him to the palace due to the delicate health situation that the King had entered. When he arrived, the Prince did not take long to appear, but it was there where everything became strange for him, because, holding the hand of the young Prince was a male omega, and Prince Zee simply told him that his name was Nunew and that he would go with them to the palace and, immediately after, they got into the car without giving further details.

The subject of an omega hanging around in the Prince's life had already become latent in recent weeks... But since he didn't really know what was going on and Fae wasn't giving him any information, he had to sort out his thoughts first.

- What is it... that your father has? - That had been the omega in question, sitting next to the prince in the back seat.

Mainly from the details of his clothing, he could also tell that this omega was not a citizen of Spades, which further increased his curiosity.

- Brain tumor. - The Prince answered. - It was detected months ago, the doctor had said it was a benign tumor, but everything seems to have become complicated very quickly. The tumor has affected various brain functions, leaving my father unable to carry out his activities as he did before. Currently, he is receiving radiotherapy, but the situation does not seem to improve and we fear that the tumor may evolve into a malignant tumor.

Well, that had been too detailed an explanation for the omega to be just a stranger.

-That's why you take care of so many things. -The omega answered.

-That's right, it's my duty now. - He could hear a hint of anguish in the Prince's voice.

After listening to that conversation, he began to put the facts in order; first, the information he had was that there was an omega who had dared to hit the Prince. That made him think that said omega would be a rather aggressive, rude person with little perception of his limits.

Visually, that didn't match the omega that came with them, Nunew looked like a jar of chocolates in person. His jeans were decorated with pink ribbons, he wore a white t-shirt and over that a pink sweater with small white hearts embroidered on it, and his cheeks had a prominent pink blush and red tinted lips.

Where was the aggressive look on that omega?

BUT...

There was a “but,” and that “but” was the second important piece of information, as a memory came to mind as he went over that description…

"There aren't many male omegas with such tender tastes, but such a sour character" - He was sure that Max had said those words the very day they went to deliver the gift to the student residence.

And that toy they delivered completed the puzzle: An omega with tender tastes.

Bingo! It was definitely that omega; the mystery was solved for him, as the appearance of the omega accompanying them totally fit that description.

But now he had another doubt: Did he get along well or badly with Prince Zee? He was not understanding that.

-

-

-

Arriving at the The Palace of the Sword made the parliament seem small in Nunew's eyes. They had crossed the great gate, and he saw how each door was decorated with the symbols of Spades; inside, the building was enormous, with shades of cream and blue. Likewise, it was possible to see the symbol of Spades made of plaster through the decorations. On the other hand, the esplanade was surrounded by beautiful gardens, where large expanses of flowers stood out, mainly blue flowers standing out along with white flowers.

Was that really Zee's house?

-Let's go Nunew. -Zee called him to get out of the car, to which he obeyed.

It was not the time to focus on the details of their home; they had to hurry to get to the King.

He walked quickly, trying not to leave Zee's side. The palace, besides being beautiful, was also guarded by elements of the Spades army. There were soldiers everywhere, dressed in their neat blue uniforms.

Growing up, he had been told stories about kings, queens, and guards. He especially remembered Alice in Wonderland, where there were playing card soldiers protecting the kings. He found this a little funny because that was what he imagined the royal guard in his kingdom to be like, and now he was meeting the Spades guard, and even though they weren't humanoid playing cards, he could still see the Spades symbol on the back of their uniforms.

Likewise, the symbol of Spades was present everywhere in the interior decoration of the palace, even through the blue carpet on which they walked.

During the ride he could see the curious glances of the service staff, which made him feel a little self-conscious. However, he avoided looking at the people he passed and decided to concentrate on keeping up with Zee, hurrying to grab the strap of his briefcase, which caught Zee's attention of his, who in response slowed down slightly.

Finally, after much walking and climbing stairs, they arrived at the hallway where the King's room was; in front of it, they found the woman they had met before... and next to her was Queen Pimphira.

He felt the blood drain from his body. He had gotten this far because of his impulse to follow Zee, but he never thought about how he would react in front of the kings.

Nunew trembled and bowed in greeting to the queen, and in response she looked him up and down, totally amazed to see him with his son. However, in Nunew's mind the woman's gaze was critical of him. He did not belong to the nobility, his clothes were not as expensive as the dress and jewels that adorned the queen at that moment, even though his clothes were comfortable enough to be at home. The woman was more imposing in person than on television.

- Your Majesty! - Fae was also surprised to see them together, but decided to concentrate on more important matters at the moment, such as the King's health.

And Nunew, out of nervousness, grabbed Zee's arm. He also decided to go without even being sure that Zee's advisor would like him.

- How is my father?! – Zee seemed anxious, fearing some negative response.

-His Majesty is stable now. The doctor has already treated him and said that it was a symptom of his condition, but nothing serious has happened. -Fae explained. -He is awake at the moment, you can go in to see him.

-Son, it was just a scare and he's feeling better now. So, let's go inside, he wants to see you and I'm sure you have things to tell us. - The Queen said this, subtly looking at Nunew, who was still holding on to the alpha's arm.

Zee let out a deep sigh; on the one hand, it was as if the heavy weight he was carrying on his shoulders had vanished; but on the other, he already knew that his mother was going to grill him with questions about Nunew.

-Nunew. -He called, turning to him, who still hadn't let go. -I'll go see him, wait here for me a moment, please.

Nunew nodded and let him go. Zee opened the large door leading to the room to let his mother in first, and then he entered, leaving him alone with Fae in the hallway.

A tense silence immediately formed.

-Uhm... -Nunew wanted to break the ice. -I just came... to accompany him.

Okay, that was still surprising to her. Just a few weeks ago she had to take Zee discreetly to the infirmary due to the blow that omega had dealt him. However, she understood that the omega was not a bad person and it was an act of defense against the stubbornness of her young prince.

-I understand. -She looked at him peacefully, and wanted to add a question originating from her curiosity- Is everything okay between you two now?

In response, the omega nodded.

-Everything is fine. -He replied simply.

-Excellent. -She said again. -Don't get me wrong, warning you about your actions with him was part of my job, but I actually like you, you're very brave. -She smiled as she said this, generating the same reaction in Nunew. -If you'll excuse me, I have to go down, have a seat in the meantime.

Wow, she was nicer than I would have imagined.

Nunew nodded with a more relaxed expression and watched Fae leave.

-

-

While Nunew was experiencing the experience of meeting the parents of the alpha with whom he had been fighting for the last few weeks, and who also happened to be the Kings of the country, a pot of gossip was brewing among the omegas and betas in the palace kitchen, which was at boiling point.

- Are you sure it was an omega?! - One of the employees asked another.

- Totally sure! - another one of them said. - I was taking clothes to the laundry room when they arrived and I passed very very close to him.

- And what was it like? Tell it clearly! - exclaimed a boy next to them.

-He was shorter than Prince Zee, with brown hair... - The girl described Nunew, outlining his body with gestures. -... Beautiful, slim and with a great body...

- Bunch of gossiping hens, get back to work! - One of the older cooks exclaimed loudly, taking them by surprise.

The group scattered from one side to the other at the fright that the woman gave them.

-M-Mrs. Min, excuse us, but this is huge news. - explained the girl who was telling the gossip to the others.

-Look, Hana, we are not here to make inquiries about the Prince's life, we are here to serve the crown. - The woman scolded her again.

-Be patient with them Min, as long as they don't go around making things up they're not hurting anyone, and we also find out things. - Said another of the ladies present, who was carrying some freshly washed dishes, which were almost in danger of falling to the floor when Mark suddenly entered the kitchen.

- Excuse me! Excuse me! I hope my piece of frozen cake is still in the fridge, ok? - Mark walked quickly between them, ignoring the conversation that was making the atmosphere tense.

Those present remained silent as they watched him pass by... Until the young people had an idea and looked at each other.

- Mark! - Several of them exclaimed, drawing his attention.

Mark closed the fridge and turned to look at them, with his slice of cake in his hands.

- You have to tell us who the omega is that came with Prince Zee! And you can't lie because we know that you went for them! - The girl who started the mess shouted at him.

Mrs. Min just sighed and returned to her work... All the while listening intently for news.

-I don't know. -Mark replied, paying more attention to eating a spoonful of his dessert.

- We know you're lying! - the boy exclaimed.

-I'm not lying. -Mark replied dryly before taking another spoonful and then continuing. -I don't really know, the prince didn't tell me anything.

- You went for him and you spend so much time with him that you don't know anything? That's not credible. - Said another of the girls in the group.

-All I know is that his name is Nunew, and I think he's part of one of the classes that Prince Zee volunteers for. - He explained, avoiding mentioning everything he knew he shouldn't mention. - Happy?

The omegas and betas looked at him suspiciously, but before any of them could say anything, the kitchen door opened, and the voice they heard made them freeze.

-I love watching them work as a team. - Fae's voice echoed in the ears of everyone present.

Reason that caused everyone to quickly disperse. Except Mark, who only greeted her with a gesture without stopping eating.

-We were just going over the itinerary, Miss Fae. - One of the girls excused herself.

-I'm glad to hear that. -Fae's tone was marked with sarcasm. -Then I hope you know that the soup for his majesty, the King, should already be ready and must be transported to his room quickly.

-Don't worry, Miss Fae, it's ready, one of the girls will take you right now. -Nam, one of the cooks in the back, explained.

-Thank you very much, Mrs. Nam. - Fae seemed more relaxed with the woman.

-

-

-

Nunew looked at his feet as if they were the most interesting thing in the world... it had been a while since Zee had entered the room and he still hadn't come out, so he was still sitting in the same place, waiting for him.

His wait didn't last any longer, as he soon heard the door open and stood up immediately.

-Nunew. -Zee called out, taking a step outside without letting go of the doorknob. -Could you come in?

The scares from that day were not over yet?

-Calm down, my parents just want to meet you. -Zee was visibly nervous.

-I understand. -Nunew nodded and took a deep breath before following Zee into the room.

Nunew entered, with his hands clasped in front of him and trying not to show any nervousness as he walked.

The room was spacious, ostentatiously decorated, with valuables visible in every corner. In the center was a huge bed; there, dressed only in silk pajamas and covered by white sheets, rested Nadetch Panich, the current King of Spades, who sat propped up on several pillows placed against the headboard of the bed.

The man wore a blue turban and looked older than usual due to his deteriorating health. His face, similar to Zee's, also showed signs of fatigue. However, he still gave him a smile.

Nunew bowed as he stood before him, still afraid.

-Welcome Nunew. -His voice sounded slow and tired.

At the side of the King's bed, sitting in an ostentatious armchair, was the Queen, who maintained a peaceful expression.

-Come, sit near us, - the King asked, patting the mattress.

-Come closer, son, don't be afraid. - The Queen agreed.

Nunew turned to look at Zee first, who nodded in the affirmative, so Nunew walked over to the kings and sat very carefully on the edge of the bed.

-You are a very beautiful omega. -The King praised him, taking him by surprise and making him feel a little embarrassed, while the Queen nodded in agreement. -My son says that you are his friend from university, isn't that right?

Nunew nodded. They weren't friends, but that was the most logical way they should have introduced themselves.

-Yes, I'm in one of the classes where he volunteers.- Nunew thought it prudent to give the detail.

-And you come from Hearts. - The Queen interrupted curiously.

-That’s right. -Nunew nodded. -I entered my university’s exchange program and was chosen for the scholarship here.

- And this is where you met my son? - The King asked again, receiving an affirmative response from the omega. - I see, so tell me, have you fought a lot with him?

Nunew was perplexed by this comment, so he looked down, thinking of what to say in response.

-Don't be scared, boy. -The King said and then let out a slight laugh before explaining. -I ask you because I raised him, so I know him and I know very well how exasperating he can be. -At that moment he looked at his son, who was standing a few meters away from them.

-Nunew, my dad is probably experiencing psychotic symptoms from taking too much medication, don't listen to him. -Zee "warned" the omega about that, causing the older man to laugh.

-This old man hasn't put both feet in the grave yet, son, don't be so hasty with that. - The King told him, and turned to Nunew. -When my wife said that my son had arrived with someone, the first thing I thought was that it was probably Max; but then she told me it wasn't him, so I started thinking about who else it could be and I couldn't come to a conclusion. So, you can imagine my face when she told me it was an omega that had been with him since college.

Nunew listened attentively to the man, who, despite his deteriorating physical health, was energetic as he told his anecdote.

-And I told you, Dad, that he was with me when I got the call and he wanted to come with me because he saw that I was very nervous. -Zee interrupted again.

- See? He can't help but interrupt others. - The King addressed Nunew while pointing at his son, causing a discreet laugh from the omega.

- Dad! - Zee exclaimed, embarrassed.

-I know, sometimes it drives me crazy. -Nunew added, looking at him with every intention of making fun of him more, and in response the alpha just pointed at him and put his index finger in front of his lips, gesturing for him to keep quiet, but he only received Nunew's usual gesture of sticking out his tongue at him, which did not go unnoticed by the kings, who looked at each other, in a form of complicity.

The King then continued with his story.

-As I was saying, I was quite surprised, but I was also very happy. -This caused more interest in the omega. -Look Nunew, maybe there is a tumor in my brain, but I am not dying as some media reports. I am conscious, I know what is happening around me and I continue working as much as I can. But I also know that the day will come when I will leave this world, and when I leave I would like it to be in peace knowing that my son is not alone.

-Sometimes Max comes. - Zee interrupted again.

-He doesn't count, and stop interrupting, brat! - The older man exclaimed to his son.

-For my part, I appreciate your company towards my son, Nunew. -The Queen stood up from her seat and took Nunew's hands. -I'm sorry if I didn't greet you properly out there, believe me, seeing you disconcerted me too much, since I didn't know Zee had an omega friend.

-You are welcome in this home whenever you want to come Nunew. -The King looked at him with gratitude.

Nunew smiled at them, for although he had no idea what to say at a time like this, he was very happy to feel welcome among them.

-Thank you very much. -He responded to all the words said. -I... If my company is good for Zee, then I hope he still sees me as someone he can trust. - Where had that come from? He didn't know either, but it had been a good answer.

Even Zee was incredulous at the omega's words, thinking that it had been a very well-crafted response to someone who had chased him with a broom just a couple of days ago.

-

-

Nunew waited a few more minutes in the hallway while Zee finished talking to his parents, but it didn't take long as the alpha left the room quickly.

-Sorry about all that, they can be pretty pushy if they want to be. -Zee said as he closed the door to the room.

-They are nice, I understand their concern for you. -Nunew was somewhat thoughtful as he answered. -Uhm... I think there are things to say, right?

-Come, let's talk away from the door, my mother might look out. - Zee guided him towards another hallway.

They moved far enough away from the room to find a more comfortable place to talk. Nunew looked nervous, and Zee didn't know what the omega wanted to tell him, so he decided to start.

-I'm sorry if I've been a bit harsh with you, sometimes this whole situation gets to me and I can be a bit impudent... you shouldn't even have to put up with all this, you're just an omega who came here to fulfill his dreams, not to bear my own stress...

-But this omega is better than nothing, don't you think? -Nunew had his head down, he didn't want to see Zee's expression at his question. -I also want to apologize, I was very aggressive with you from the beginning. Although... With all this I still feel a bit confused about the fact that you don't like omegas that much.

And Zee's face became a true portrait of bewilderment.

- What? - Was the first thing he managed to answer. - Where do you get that I don't like omegas?

-The things you were saying the day we met. -Nunew said, referring to the fateful day in the library.

Zee brought a hand to his forehead and tried to take a deep breath at this explanation.

-Nunew, I have said many times that I never said anything against omegas, you misinterpreted everything.

- So, what was that?! -Nunew looked up searching for answers. -You said that omegas should lose their rights.

- I didn't say that! Do you really think that of me after all this time? God, even I think that's such a grotesque idea... - Zee was outraged by this statement. - Nunew, that morning I had a meeting with several nobles of the kingdom, and since many of them are cavemen, one of them put forward that horrible idea in the assembly...

Nunew's face softened as he began to understand the context of everything.

-... And since Fae is right that sometimes I react without thinking, I stood up and answered him in a somewhat aggressive manner. -Up to there, Zee sighed remembering that and continued explaining. -So, in the afternoon I had to go to the university because I had to check some things, but since I still had the anger stuck I decided to stop by the library to say hello to Mr. Oab, so that was where I could express my feelings about what had happened, only you arrived at the least appropriate time to believe that I had said all that.

Nunew couldn't feel more ashamed when he understood everything, so -wanting the earth to swallow him up-, he just covered his face with his hands.

-I'm an idiot, I'm an idiot... - He began to repeat to himself, covering his face.

-Nunew no... Believe me, I put myself in your place and I understand your anger, let's just forget about that, okay? - Zee asked him, approaching to take him by the arms to discover his face.

Nunew was red in the face, and tears were threatening to fall. Zee feared meeting that, he couldn't handle it.

- Wait, Nu, don't be like that... - Zee didn't know what to do. Was Nunew going to cry again? He didn't want that, so, overwhelmed by nerves and with trembling hands, he wrapped his arms around the omega and held him close to his body in a hug.

Nunew was shocked, not sure if it was because of the nickname or the way the alpha had hugged him. So there, with his face pressed against the alpha's neck - the place where the natural scent was strongest in alphas and omegas - he felt that minty aroma running through his system, making him feel at peace.

Apparently, Zee's pheromones were acting to calm him down.

Slowly, he wrapped his arms around the alpha as well, not caring how long they stayed like that. Likewise, they didn't notice when an omega from the housekeeping appeared in the hallway where they were, freaking out at the sight of them, causing them to jump and separate due to the intrusion.

The girl returned the way she had come at top speed, saying that she had not seen anything at all.

-I think I'll have to have a talk with the service staff. -Zee said as he watched her leave. Nunew just let out a light laugh.

-

-

After all the hustle and bustle -already common in Nunew's life living in the Kingdom of Spades- it was time to go home, so they both went back out to where the car had been left.

However, before getting into the car, Nunew checked his cell phone.

-There are less than five minutes left until my class. - He commented, realizing that he was not going to make it on time.

-Well... Don't worry about that, Fae already took care of informing the university that you were here and about my father's situation, so you won't be guilty.- Zee tried to calm him down, given the omega's possible fear of missing classes.

-I'm actually saying that because I didn't feel like going anyway... - Nunew put away his phone, he really didn't feel like going back to school after so many emotions in one day.

- How about you stay a little longer? - Zee said without thinking.

Nunew looked at him in astonishment, was he really asking him that?

-You know, there's no point in rushing, you could stay a while and we'll watch a movie or something... If you want. -The alpha was totally nervous.

- Really? - For Nunew that was new, an alpha had never invited him to see a movie... although this didn't count as a date.

-Here is the best private cinema in the Kingdom, Nu, and there is also... food... - Zee knew where to find his interest.

There was the nickname again, his friends also called him that way sometimes, but even so, it sounded totally different to the alpha; the alpha put emphasis on lengthening and sweetening that nickname, and that had an effect on Nunew's body, causing his skin to tingle when he heard it.

-Okay, I'd like to. - The omega smiled, after realizing the alpha's intention to attract him with food.

The two of them set out to return inside the palace, but before that they ran into Mark, who had already prepared to take them.

-Nunew will be staying a little longer, Mark, you can go back to your rest. -Zee indicated upon seeing him.

With that, the two entered the building and Mark stood in front of the entrance, trying to connect dots in his mind.

So, they do get along, right?

-

Chapter Text

It was curious how they realized that several hours had already passed and night had fallen upon the kingdom. It all started because Max had arrived at the palace to greet the King after the health emergency he had, and obviously, being there he couldn't leave without stopping by to greet his lifelong friend.

What was his surprise when he found out that he was not alone? But no one could give him any concrete answers. Even the kings only told him that his son was “accompanied.”

So, he headed to the cinema himself – he knew they were there thanks to Mark – to find out the source of the mystery. When he got to the hallway, he met a beta member of the service staff, who was carrying a food trolley with empty plates.

- Hello, Nina. - Due to his years of visiting the palace, Max has already gotten to know the staff well. - Is Prince Zee in the room?

-Mr. Max, good evening. Yes, His Majesty is there… But… - The young woman approached him, looking suspiciously from side to side. -Knock on the door first, he has company.

- Company? That's what I've been told, but no one tells me who it is. - Max crossed his arms, waiting for her to solve the mystery.

-I've never seen him before, Mr. Max, but he's an omega. -She replied in a whisper.

- Omega? Could it be that... - Max could only think of one omega, and now more than ever he had to check it.

-But he's a very cute omega, Mr. Max, he even helped us arrange the food trays in the living room. It's just that none of us have dared to ask who he is because that would be very impertinent of us, but we'll be very happy if he's Prince Zee's boyfriend... - Realizing that she was talking too much, the girl quickly went back to take the cart. -Uhm, but I must retire to the kitchen now, Mr. Max, see you later.

The beta quickly left there, and Max, without waiting a second longer, knocked on the door, and, immediately, could hear a "come in" from Zee's voice.

He opened the door and as he passed through his doubts were dispelled.

The palace's cinema room had a more intimate design than a typical movie theater, consisting of three rows of sofa beds separated by tables and a large screen in front.

He found the alpha and omega on the first couch, both lying on their pillows, shoes off. Nunew had a bowl of popcorn on his lap, and the only thing on the screen was the home page.

-Can I come in?

-Max, you're already in anyway. -Zee answered sitting down, and Nunew immediately did the same.

-It’s a courtesy. -Max walked over and sat on the corner of the couch. -Should I ask why he’s here? -He looked directly at Nunew.

-Because we were watching a movie. -Zee answered peacefully, ignoring the meaning of the question.

-And the King and Queen told me that I can come whenever I want. -Nunew looked at him with a show-off look.

-Calm down Nunew, I'm just wondering why I'm surprised by this plot twist. -Max replied without any desire to argue. -So, are you staying tonight?

-No, I have to get back to the room before nightfall or Yim will get angry. - Nunew replied, leaving the bowl of popcorn on the table.

-Well, I think he's going to get mad because it's already nighttime. - Max took one of the bowls of popcorn while calmly explaining the fact.

Nunew and Zee looked at each other in horror, immediately checked the time and confirmed that it was indeed nighttime.

Max just leaned back on the couch, and making himself comfortable, grabbed one of the containers of popcorn while around him, Nunew and Zee hurriedly put on their shoes and grabbed their things, before finally running out of the room.

Net was definitely going to throw a tantrum when he found out everything he was missing, since Max was going to be the one to tell him.

-

-

-

After all the conflicts that were cleared up during Nunew's visit to the palace, the relationship took a better turn. Even bumping into each other in the university corridors and sitting together in the cafeteria had become a reality, and that was what happened at that moment.

On the table, Zee had his laptop, he was taking the free time he had to work on his things, and next to him, Nunew was eating some cookies.

-You have to go to your club later, right? - Zee asked Nunew, glancing at him. The reason for that question was because of the way the omega was dressed.

Nunew was wearing black running tights (which Zee thought were too tight) and a Mexican pink shirt that covered below his thighs.

-Yim and I have Dance, so I'm getting ready. -Nunew answered showing him the cookies. His way of preparing was to go with a good dose of sugar in his body.

-I didn't know you like to dance.

-Yim gave me his love for dancing since we met, so we had planned to enter the class together when I came to Espadas. -At that moment, Nunew performed a little dance in his place, moving his shoulders. -Now we are fulfilling it.

Zee was touched by Nunew's movement, distracting himself from his work just to look at him.

-And by the way, how did you meet him? -Zee stopped writing for a moment to look at the omega.

-Yim went to my university's annual fair and we met there, then we continued talking through messages. -Nunew took another cookie, but before eating it he added something else. -In fact, Yim was the one who had the idea of ​​me applying for the scholarship to Spades.

-Ah, the trip to Hearts last year… -Zee looked thoughtful. -On that occasion, the idea was for me to go with the selected students, but in those days my father was beginning to have significant symptoms of illness… So, I had to attend to other things and cancelled the trip. -Zee finished his answer with a sigh.

The fair had been a year ago, which gave Nunew an idea of how long Zee had been in that stressful dynamic of doing a thousand things at the same time. It also gave him a curious feeling when he thought that they could have met before, in a better situation.

As he was drifting off into his thoughts, he didn't notice when Zee managed to steal a cookie from him and was already eating it.

- Hey! - Nunew exclaimed, closing the bag.

-Too much sugar for my taste. -Zee said as he finished eating the cookie. -Anyway, I'm just here today to do my master’s work. I have to work in my office the rest of the afternoon.

- Do you have an office? - Nunew looked at him, narrowing his eyes and hiding his cookies.

-In addition to my space in the palace, I also have an office in Parliament. -Zee paused for a moment, thinking about what he was going to say next. -Would you like to see it?

What?

At that point, Nunew wondered if he was serious, or trying to annoy him like before.

- Excuse me? -Nunew could only question him.

-It's usually boring to be there for hours, besides there's an assignment for class, we could do it there. -Zee answered with facts.

Nunew thought about it for a few seconds. They were just beginning to have a sort of friendship, so the request seemed too early. He didn't want to seem like the kind of easy omega who would follow him anywhere just because.

So, his answer was negative.

-Not yet. -He touched the alpha's nose with the bag of cookies and then stood up from his spot. -Don't try to go so fast, precocious alpha.

Oh, what a poor choice of words Nunew had chosen.

-Hey, I'm not precocious… - Before Zee could say anything else, Nunew covered his ears.

- I'm not going to listen to you because if I do, I'll go get a frying pan from the kitchen and not exactly to cook! - Nunew walked quickly to the exit of the cafeteria covering his ears.

However, when he got there, he found a familiar face arriving.

-Hello Nunew. -The omega girl from the cooking class greeted. -Did something happen?

Nunew lowered his hands and greeted her.

-No, nothing, Noey. -He answered without much enthusiasm. -I just have to go to my class.

-I see, then I'll see you in the next class Nunew. -The girl said goodbye to him and entered the cafeteria…

Noey entered the cafeteria, where Zee was still.

He turned around to find that, sure enough, Noey immediately went to sit next to Zee.

Damn.

-

-

After dance class and changing clothes, Nunew went out with Yim to get something to eat, they planned to go to some food stand outside the school, but before that, he could see the Alpha from afar standing at the entrance of the building, checking his cell phone.

-Now we find it on every corner Nu. -That was Yim trying to be poisonous, so much so that it caught the attention of the alpha, who in response greeted them with a gesture.

- Didn't you say you had to leave? - Nunew asked, remembering that he had last seen him with the girl.

-Something else came up before I could leave. -Zee didn't specify what happened, so Nunew thought that Noey was probably the distraction. -But I must leave now, see you later.

Both omegas watched him leave without saying anything else. But Nunew found the coldness with which he did it strange. Had he been upset because he had rejected his invitation? Or, did it have to do with the fact that he was apparently getting closer to the girl?

Whatever the case, possible scenarios kept playing out in his mind, and his uneasiness was so obvious that Yim noticed.

-

-

Yim sighed for the thousandth time since he had arrived at Tutor and Leo's room; he had left giving Nunew the excuse that he was going to get a notebook he had lent to Tutor, but in reality, he had gone to express his anger.

-You can't tell me I'm wrong because even you noticed it, Tutor. - Yim spoke while sitting on Tutor's bed, while he was folding his clothes.

- But do you think it's right to get involved? - Tutor answered, folding a shirt.

-Nunew was sad when he saw him leave, and I can't allow that. -Yim recalled the moment when they found the alpha at the entrance. -And when I asked him if something was wrong, he told me that Prince Zee had invited him to his office, but that he had rejected him and the prince didn't say anything to him again.

- And isn't that a closed matter already? - Tutor questioned again.

-No, there's more, Tutor. - Yim thumped the bed effusively. -He also told me that there was an omega of his cooking class who likes Prince Zee, and he said he saw them sitting together today.

-But you're not sure if something is really happening. - Tutor continued. -Maybe it's all a misunderstanding, remember that Prince Zee said he's not dating anyone…

-Too late for excuses Tutor, I'm already doing something. - Yim was typing rapidly on his phone at this point.

And Tutor just sighed in resignation, when Yim had something in mind it was difficult to get him out of it.

On the omega's phone, the first messages had been sent:

Hey ):<

foolish prince

It was not an appropriate start to a conversation with someone of royalty, but his anger had spoken first.

“typing” appeared on the screen.

- He is already answering me. -Yim exclaimed, causing Tutor to quickly approach. Even Leo -who was playing video games on his bed- also went to sit next to him.

Excuse me? Who are you?

In this way, Yim started the conversation.

The same one who had already warned you that he would be watching you.

Ah, hello Yim, you got my number from Nunew's phone, right?

-He seems to know you well. -Leo said, leaning on Yim's shoulder.

I just did it to warn you about something.

Nunew may seem very strong, but he actually has a lot of insecurities.

Don't play with him.

Before he could continue writing, Zee interrupted him.

What is all this about?

If you invited him somewhere, hopefully it's because you really want to take him and not just any omega to hang out.

That had sounded VERY strong.

-Yim, aren't you overdoing it? - Tutor asked upon seeing that message.

-No, I'm angry. -The omega replied and continued the chat.

What are you talking about?

Which omega?

I invited Nunew to my office, but he didn't want to.

Then you should insist! ):<

Don't play with his feelings like that, because if I see you making him sad again, I'm going to get angry.

This time, the response took a little longer to appear.

Alongside Yim, Tutor and Leo waited in suspense.

- What if he sends you to dungeon? - Leo asked.

-That is no longer a current method of correction, Leo. -Tutor replied.

-Shh, it's answering. - Yim said. The “typing ” was already on the screen and within seconds the reply arrived.

I don't know if I'm understanding correctly what's going on, but sorry for this, I'll try to fix it.

That was the last message and Zee went offline.

-I don't understand, didn't those two hate each other? - Leo asked after seeing all that.

-Things are happening that make us think that this is no longer the case. -Tutor answered the younger man's doubt. -For example, a few days ago Nunew went with him to the palace and arrived very late.

-And he said he came home at night because they watched a movie and stayed up talking for the rest of the afternoon. - Yim said through clenched teeth, staring into space.

Leo scratched his head before giving an answer, all of this also made him think about things.

-I think you're going to have to keep an eye on them, that's what my omega cousin was like with her supposed friend, and now I have a nephew. -The answer only caused more concern for them, mainly for Yim.

-Tutor, do you think Nunew agrees to wear a chastity belt?

-

In his office, Zee left his cell phone on the table and leaned back in his chair. He had a lot of work to do, but Yim’s messages had him uneasy.

Did Nunew get sad because he didn't insist anymore?

He was seriously thinking about that.

He was usually very attentive to this type of situation; I could even say that between him, Max and Net, he was the most sensitive when it came to sentimental matters.

But understanding Nunew was certainly something new in his life.

-

-

After what happened, he decided to take some time off work to attend university, specifically at the end of Nunew's last class. He waited outside the classroom, by the window, looking out at the landscape, until the students began to leave.

Nunew, for his part, had not expected to run into the alpha that day. Much less to run into an elegantly dressed Zee; he was wearing a white shirt with a navy-blue vest, and a tie and pants of the same color.

Until that moment he had not seen him dressed in such an elegant manner, except for that event where he saw him on television.

Of course, he wasn't the only one to notice the alpha's appearance, as he was surrounded by some omegas and betas of his class.

He thought he should just leave, but he saw how Zee kindly said goodbye to the group and went to where he was.

- Are you having fun? - Was the first thing that came out of his mouth when he saw him approaching. - I thought you weren't coming today.

-I left something in the staff room. -Clearly, that was an excuse, but it worked for Zee anyway. -That's why I'm just passing by, are you leaving already?

Nunew nodded at the question.

-I'm just going to see if Yim is free to go home.

-So… - The alpha began, and Nunew looked at him curiously. - Don't you want to go with me to the office?

-I told you no before. -Nunew looked down, remembering what had happened.

- Why are you making it so difficult Nu? -The alpha made a dramatic face of anguish. -I thought we were friends now, it would be fun if you go.

The term <friends> applied to their relationship still sounded strange to Nunew.

- Don't you have someone else accompanying you? - Nunew dared to ask that with a touch of fear.

-No, I don't usually invite anyone to my office, it's a private space. -Zee hadn't said that as bait, that was a fact. -Max and Net go when necessary, but mostly for work reasons.

Nunew's face seemed to light up at that response.

-If I say no again, you'll keep bothering me about it, right? Then I'll go. - Nunew tried to act like he wasn't interested in the matter, but he couldn't hide his smile.

Zee smiled triumphantly, slowly beginning to understand more about how Nunew worked.

-

-

The office was spacious; it had a large desk -covered with folders and various papers- at the back, and behind it a large window which was covered by dark blue curtains; on the sides there were shelves containing books and folders, among other things; and in the middle a coffee table with two long armchairs on either side. Despite being an office, Nunew found it to be a very cozy place.

To get there they had first gone through Yim, who, upon meeting him, warned Zee to take Nunew home early because they had a movie night. And, upon arriving at the parliament, Nunew had to be the focus of many eyes again for having arrived with the prince.

Behind him, Zee carried his bag in one arm and closed the door with his free hand.

-This is my workspace. -he told him, walking over to his desk.

It really was his space, Nunew could strongly smell the minty scent of the alpha throughout the room. He looked at the perfectly arranged things, the briefcase on the desk, a blue coat hanging on the coat rack… Everything gave him the vibe of the alpha spending long hours there.

Zee had entered a small room to the side of his desk, from where he pulled out a chair on wheels and moved it closer to his desk so Nunew could sit next to him.

-The bathroom is in the other door if you need to use it. -Zee pointed to a door on the opposite side. -You can sit here.

Nunew approached him, but before sitting down he took a look at the panorama by opening a small part of the curtain. From there he looked at the moving city, still illuminated by the light of day.

-This is my work, from yesterday, today and tomorrow. -Zee, already in his seat, pointed at the piles of papers that filled his desk. -It looks fun, doesn't it? -He asked with evident sarcasm.

-I thought there was someone to do the job for you. -Nunew said as he settled into his seat.

-Everything that happens in the Kingdom must go through my hands, it would be irresponsible not to be aware of what happens on a day-to-day basis. -The alpha explained. -And if it is something very important, I give it to the Ace, who takes it to my father.

- Like when they have to make an important decision about the Kingdom? - Nunew asked interested.

-No, when it involves an important decision, you must call a meeting of the Kingdom's nobles, who work for the crown. There, they and my parents discuss the final decision.

- So, your father can't just say yes and that's it? - Nunew had turned his whole body towards him, placing an elbow on the arm of the chair to rest his head on his hand.

-The final decision is made by my father together with my mother, but they cannot make it without hearing all the opinions of the nobles, they must first listen to several perspectives.

- And you? -Nunew took him by surprise with the question.

-At the moment I don't make decisions for the Kingdom, I'm just my father's spokesperson now that he's sick. -Zee approached to take some papers from a folder. -And although I have my duties as prince in certain sectors of the Kingdom, such as education or recreation, in the end it's my father who approves or disapproves decisions.

-I see… -Nunew leaned back in the chair.

Out of the corner of his eye he could see that one of the papers Zee was holding in his hands had the coat of arms of the Spades Army on it; it consisted of a Spade with two swords crossing it. He could also see that it had a title that said something about the current situation of the armed forces.

- Is it something about the army? - Nunew asked as he straightened up and pointed at the sheet.

- This? -Zee lifted the sheet of paper and showed it to him. -It's a work related to my master's degree.

-So… Do you study anything about the army? -Nunew seemed surprised.

-Mastery in Royal Defense and Armed Forces. -Zee said it with all the calm in the world, while that information fell on Nunew like a stone.

That is, he had been fighting with that alpha for weeks because the latter had a tendency to tease him in a very childish way; therefore, it never occurred to him that that same alpha had an education as strong as what the armed forces implied.

-… Is that even part of the university program? … So, you were in the army? - Nunew had many questions, and Zee first showed him a smile.

-It is not part of the program, but I am taking my master's degree there as an exception, due to my other duties in the institution. And as for the army, I was not part of it, I only went to the naval school for a short time, since I could not leave my duties for a very long period. During that time, I received basic military education, and from a very young age I was educated in the handling of weapons, and, above all, in the use and handling of swords. -The more he spoke, the more surprised Nunew became. -It would be incongruous if I had not received that kind of education...

-But then… What did you study at university? -Nunew wanted to understand more.

-International Relations. -Zee answered. -I studied with Max, but he went for a postgraduate degree in Military strategy, we both take our places in Royalty very seriously.

- Their places? Why…? - At this moment, Nunew had already pushed his chair next to Zee's, listening attentively.

That situation made Zee a little nervous, he had a Nunew very close to him, very curious about him. If someone had told him weeks ago that this would happen, he would have laughed.

-The duty of a King, besides making important decisions for a kingdom, lies in leading the armed forces, Nu. -Zee had left his papers on the table again. -The army is always active, and the duty of a King is to know its function, both theoretically and practically, and not only ours, but also that of the other Kingdoms… In addition, we have currently had hostile visitors from the land of the Jokers, so we must always be alert for the protection of the people.

Nunew had rarely heard about Joker Land, which was a territory outside the Kingdoms, with a political scheme very closed to the outside world.

-Wow… - Nunew didn't know what to say. - So, that's why you joined as a volunteer in the history class?

-I did it because I like it, I don't know everything about the Kingdom's history and I can learn more. -Zee answered thoughtfully and then stared at him. -Besides, it's been fun, don't you think?

Nunew took the hint and lightly punched him on the leg.

-I came here because I'm in the education field, so I'm very far from what you do; besides, I have to prove that I'm worthy of the scholarship I won, I didn't come to have fun. -Nunew expressed his feeling, remembering the day he said goodbye to his parents at the airport.

-You can do both without any problem, I see that you are an outstanding student and you also have time for your friends. -Zee said those words of comfort in a very soft voice, trying to take away the omega's anguish. -You have also had time to get the prince of the kingdom out of his routine... and even hit him with a broom.

Nunew laughed as he recalled how he chased him in cooking class.

-You asked for that - He answered, hoping that the alpha would remember the dirty words he had said to him on that occasion, and Zee only looked away, avoiding the subject -... So, do you want me to help you with something? - Deep down, Nu had been happy to hear that, despite everything, the alpha finds it fun to be with him.

-

They spent a long time reading, sorting and stamping papers; although Zee had told him that it was not necessary for him to help him as it was a stressful process, Nunew insisted on doing so. So, at some point they even had to order food directly to the office so as not to waste time.

After finishing the paperwork, Zee took it upon himself to check some emails, while Nunew had gotten up to browse through his bookshelves.

Zee kept looking at him out of the corner of his eye; even while working he didn't lose sight of him, and it wasn't until he saw the omega take out a small album that he stopped what he was doing and went to him.

Nunew had already opened it, especially since on the cover was written “Memoirs” and on the first page he came across a photo of a baby surrounded by toys.

-Nu, give it to me, my mother had to put it there. - The alpha warned, already close to him, but it was too late because Nunew was looking at the photo smiling.

- Is that you? I want to see it, it's nothing bad. - Nunew hugged the album to his chest, starting to walk in the opposite direction to the alpha.

-No, give it to me. -The alpha began to keep pace with him.

- No! I want to see him. -Nunew began to walk faster.

Now they both walked in circles around the armchairs.

- What do you want to see it for? Just give it to me. -Zee began to quicken his pace as well.

Nunew broke out of the cycle they were walking in and fled behind the desk.

-Nu, come back here. - Zee went after him and Nunew couldn't escape being cornered.

- I want to see it! - Nunew held up the album with his hand, while standing on his tiptoes.

Totally useless action since the alpha was taller than him and easily took the album from him.

-You're bad, give it to me! - With a pout, Nunew began to pat the taller one on the chest.

“Cute” - That was what Zee thought, while he still had the omega cornered, and the album raised as high as possible with his hand.

Raising his gaze, Nunew met the alpha's gaze, who was staring at him. The two were very close, and Nunew had no intention of pushing him away. While he was nervous about the closeness and it caused him to look away, he didn't want the older man to move away either.

The moment was cut short as someone knocked on the door, causing Zee to sigh in annoyance and turn to answer.

-Go ahead! - He exclaimed, turning his back to the omega, who took the opportunity to take the album from him.

-Good afternoon young prince, I have more documents to rev… - The man in question was perplexed to find Zee in the corner of the office, along with an omega.

-You can put them on the table Elf. -Zee ignored the man's surprise, worrying more because Nunew was slipping off to the side, with the album in his arms.

The man obeyed and approached the desk to leave them, and later greeted Nunew, who responded in the same way.

- Sorry, I didn't know there were visitors. - The man addressed Zee.

-Uhm, I have to use the bathroom. - Nunew excused himself and quickly went to open the bathroom door to hide, without letting go of the album.

-You came at a good time for him to get away with it. - Zee said, seeing the omega locking himself in the bathroom.

-Your sister is going to go crazy when she finds out that I met him before her. -The man looked at him amused.

The man was the husband of Zee's sister, who at that time had joined to support the family due to the King's health situation, so it was not unusual to see him around Zee's office carrying documents.

-And by the way, why is he here?

-I brought him to see the office.

Inside the bathroom, Nunew had sat down on the toilet to look through the album, but his curiosity about the two men's conversation got the better of him. So, he left the album there as he went to put his ear to the door.

-I also brought you the notice about the meeting at the club. -He listened to what the man said.

- Believe me, I'm not in the mood to go to Arkonix. - That had been Zee. At the same time, he heard the sound of the chair, so he thought Zee had returned to his seat.

-Hey… - He heard the man lower his voice. - Why don't you ask him to come with you? - He managed to hear him despite the low sound.

Join him? What kind of event would that be?

-I don't know, I don't want him to think I'm overstepping his boundaries. -Nunew didn't understand why he would think that. -But I'll think about it.

Nunew stopped listening to the conversation and sat back down on the toilet.

Would Zee ask him to go with him to the place he needed to go? Besides, for that man to suggest that so naturally, it meant that he was close to Zee.

-

A few minutes passed until Zee slowly opened the bathroom door, finding Nunew flipping through the album.

- Hey! Knock before entering! - Nunew exclaimed upon seeing him.

-It's not like you're using the bathroom for what it's meant for, Nu. Have you had enough fun yet? -Zee walked over to him and Nunew stood up.

-No. - Nunew hugged the album to his chest again, stood up, stuck his tongue out at him, and walked past him, straight to the door.

Zee stood with his arms crossed as Nunew walked in front of him, chuckling lightly at his new discovery: the omega could be quite the brat.

Watching him approach the door, he lost himself in the sway of Nunew's hips as he walked. It was something he had noticed some time ago, but now it seemed more pronounced.

There was no denying that he found that sexy.

...As it was also undeniable that he had to get those thoughts out of his mind and stop staring at his ass. They were just beginning to build a friendship and he didn't want to seem like a pervert.

He followed him closely until the omega took a seat in one of the armchairs, opening the album again.

-Look, I liked this. -Nunew specifically searched for a photo to show it.

Zee had positioned herself behind him, leaning against the back of the chair. From there, he saw that the photo Nunew was pointing at was one in which he was dressed in a cat suit; he was about a year old at the time.

-You were wearing a kitten costume. -Nunew had brought his hands to his cheeks, expressing the tenderness he felt for the photo.

-Hey, my mom used to put them on me without thinking about my future dignity. -Zee said near the omega's head.

-And look at this. -Nunew looked at another page, where Zee appeared, also as a baby, wearing a bee onesie. -You were a little bee. -Nunew covered his mouth while squealing because he thought it was so cute.

-I see you like babies. -Zee blurted out suddenly. -…In any case, you had said something about having omega children.

Nunew put down the album for a moment, to answer the question with interest.

-Well… I think it's normal… -Nunew answered, making his tone more serene. -The fact of wanting to have children someday, right? I would like to have a baby in the future… -However, the memories of Zee saying that there would not be a Queen, and the subject of him being the only King came to his mind. -Well, maybe not for everyone, I guess it's more common for omegas, I don't know…

Nunew began to stammer, wanting to divert the topic because he knew how uncomfortable this was for Zee, even though he didn't yet know his reasons.

For his part, Zee had only remained silent, understanding Nunew's nervousness, but not knowing what to respond.

-Besides, it's normal that the photos looked nice if you were dressed in nice outfits. - Nunew finished by saying.

-…It's obvious. -Zee managed to say. -My mother enjoyed me very much since I was her last son.

Nunew was struck by this statement; he had not previously investigated further into the alpha's family.

- Really? - He asked, wanting to know more.

-I have two older omega sisters, one lives in Diamonds and the other is here. -Zee walked around the armchair to sit next to the omega. -The man who came in a while ago is called Elf, he is the husband of the one who lives here. After my father fell ill, he also offered to help the family with royal duties, so he is usually around here helping me with some things.

To Nunew, the familiarity with which the man had spoken to Zee made sense, after all, they were truly family.

-You couldn't meet them the day you went to the palace because she and her husband had to cover for my mother in something. -Zee continued.

-So, you grew up with omegas. -Nunew said, expressing that as a curiosity he hadn't thought of before.

-That's right. -Zee took the album from Nunew's legs and stood up, intending to put it away on his desk. -They have always been a part of my life; it would be incongruous to hate them. -Zee pointed that out, as a reminder of the misunderstanding that made them meet.

Nunew leaned back on the back of the chair, looking at the alpha while smiling widely. He wasn't a horrible alpha like he had thought before, he was quite the opposite; he was very kind, he was sweet, he was compassionate, he was respectful, he was patient... and he was also very handsome. More than anything, as the evening light filtered through the curtains, giving light to his figure; it made Nunew's little heart beat strongly, and he was starting to become aware of it.

The sad thing is that the evening light also indicated that it was time to go home.

-

-

Zee parked the car in front of the student residence, they had arrived before dark as he had promised Yim, so he couldn't complain.

-Umh, I guess I'll see you in class. -Nunew didn't know how to say goodbye, it was the first time it was really difficult.

-Yes. -Zee was static, thinking seriously about what he was going to say.

Before Nunew could open the door, he was interrupted by the alpha.

-Nunew… -The aforementioned turned to him.

Zee was nervous, he wanted to bring up the topic of the trip, but…

-…No, nothing. See you at the university. - He patted himself internally, he had ruined it.

Nunew showed some disappointment on his face, but he immediately smiled again and walked over. He then got out of the car, leaving Zee alone.

The alpha was insulting himself internally in a thousand possible ways. He was afraid of sounding too intense if he asked him to go out with him so soon to a place far from the central city. So, he just took a deep breath, there were still a few days left, he could ask him later. He was thinking about it seriously because, although he had to attend to work matters there, he could take some time to go out for a walk around the town.

On Nunew's side, who was walking through the lobby towards his room, there was some disappointment at what had happened. But he preferred to avoid it affecting him, after all it wasn't like the alpha had to be taking him with him to everything. However, he also thought that perhaps the fact that he had rejected him once had caused Zee to lose the desire to invite him to other places. That was what mainly worried him.

It was best to avoid thinking about it anyway. It was a movie night with his best friend and it was a great excuse to distract himself.

-

Chapter Text

Zee was sitting in the stands, but mentally he wasn't there; he was going over every moment he had spent with the omega since the school year had started. He even went over the bad times, like when they met and his anger got the better of him and he insulted him... He didn't understand how he had gone from that to an almost magnetic need to be close to him. He could think that maybe it was something attributable to instinct, but if it was his instinct, he would have thought of the omega as a mere sexual interest from the beginning and, however, it wasn't like that. He looked at the omega as a whole; a boy with a great temperament that didn't let himself be trampled on and that made his inner self go crazy; he was an intelligent boy that made his diplomatic side, [Prince Zee] was delighted, thinking of him as an excellent partner; he was also a sweet and tender boy that made him stand firm in protecting him; and he had a natural flirtatiousness that reminded him that deeper and deeper inside him was his [alpha-self] who was dying to touch him.

And that last thing was probably the most boiling thing inside him at that moment; for some reason, the dance club had been taken out onto one of the fields and a sports teacher had them doing exercises.

Nunew was there, of course, reluctantly obeying orders. How could you not see him? He was the pink spot that stood out among his companions, wearing pink joggers and a short white t-shirt, so short that when he jumped doing jumping jacks, it would rise up, revealing part of his abdomen and back.

-Damn, you're totally lost watching him jump, what dirty things are you imagining? - Max's voice brought him out of his thoughts as if a glass was breaking.

Since when was it there?!

-Hey, but that means you do have a sexual desire. -Max continued talking while he sank into shame internally. -I'll tell Net that we can no longer throw you the party to celebrate your asexuality.

- Max! –He exclaimed, turning to him–. What time did you get here?

-A few seconds ago, I'm surprised you didn't really notice me. - Max answered, receiving only a sigh from his friend, without saying anything more on the subject.

-Max… – The man in question turned to look at him again. – Couldn't they have replaced the missing teacher with one who was a dance teacher? Why did he have to be a sports teacher?

Max turned to look at the group -who were now running around the field- and in the middle of them was the sports teacher, a young alpha who was looking very interested at the students.

-I don't know, my friend, I'm not in charge of that. -Max thought he understood what was bothering Zee. -But whoever hired him should be fired, I can sense the morbidness with which he looks at them.

-Max. -Zee called out to him again, and Max looked at him again. -Do you think that lately… Am I going crazy?

-…A little. -Max was sincere. -But I understand your reason. -He emphasized, looking at Nunew. -You are experiencing something new, you have never liked someone before and now that it is happening to you, you are scared.

-… -

- Am I wrong?

- And when do you stop being scared? - Zee answered, lowering his tone.

He couldn't deny what his friend had told him; in any case, it was something he had already imagined for a few days. All he needed was for someone to say it to him out loud.

-When you face it. -Max replied, straightening up and speaking bluntly. -Luckily for you, I see this isn't one-sided…

At that point, the screams of the guys on the court interrupted them.

- Nunew! - Zee exclaimed, standing up and running towards the group.

It turned out that while they were running, Nunew had tripped, fallen and hit the ground hard.

His classmates had gathered around him, while the teacher had also approached and knelt beside him. Zee arrived at that moment, finding Nunew rubbing his arm.

The rest of the students stepped aside at the sight, except for Yim who refused to move away and knelt down beside Nunew. The teacher immediately stood up.

-Your Majesty, it's a pleasure to see you today. -He began by greeting, as if the situation was no big deal. -Don't worry, he's fine, sometimes students exaggerate and Chawarin didn't want to do the exercises well. -As he spoke, he was completely ignored by Zee.

-I'll take care of him. -Zee said as he knelt down next to the omega.

-It's just a scratch, he can run again...

- I said I'll take care of him myself! - The alpha exclaimed loudly, looking at the professor, who stepped back under the fierce gaze of the alpha prince.

The students also walked away from them completely scared, they had never seen their prince respond in such an aggressive manner.

Yim even decided to stand up, giving them space.

Nunew was frightened by the situation developing between the two alphas, fearing that in a fit of anger Zee might attack the professor. But for some reason, Zee's gaze and attack pheromones were not frightening him; on the contrary, his omega was perceiving him as his protector.

Zee saw the omega's tear-filled eyes, and the way he held his injured arm, so he did his best to lessen his anger so he could approach him without scaring him.

- Does it hurt? - He asked in an extremely low and sweet voice.

Nunew just nodded, he wanted to cry, but he wasn't going to do it there.

In response, Zee walked over to him to pick him up in his arms. He then stood up, still holding the omega in his arms.

-Max. -Zee called, knowing that his friend was behind Nunew's companions observing everything. The aforementioned approached when he was called. -Please, go get the first aid kit that is in the car in the parking lot. Mark must be nearby to give it to you.

-Understood, friend. -Max emerged from the crowd, and walked away calmly with his hands in his pockets in search of what he had been ordered to do.

-Yim. -Now Zee referred to the other omega, who was still with them. -Retrieve Nunew's things from his living room, please. I will take care of him here, then we will meet you. -Yim nodded, somehow he knew that his friend would be safe. -The rest of the group can leave, I will take care of everything that happened here.

He said that last thing while looking fiercely at the professor, who could feel a chill running down his spine.

Zee walked away from them, taking Nunew with him. He carried him far enough away to one side of the grandstands and sat Nunew down on one of the steps.

Nunew just continued to look at him without saying a word, he was very stunned by everything that had happened, and he was still holding back his tears.

Zee examined his arm, taking a handkerchief out of his coat to wipe the dust from the wound.

-That man is going to earn himself expulsion from this institution for this. -Zee muttered as he cleaned the wound. -How can he say this is nothing? You could have twisted your arm with that blow.

Nunew could no longer sense the alpha's angry pheromones; instead, they were now distress pheromones.

-Nunu, can I see your knees? -His voice was so sweet when he called him, and together with that new nickname, Nunew wanted to melt right there.

Nunew nodded and helped him lift his pants up above his knee, exposing the reddened skin.

-Fortunately, there are no open wounds, but a blow there could be serious... - Zee's examination was interrupted by a sob that escaped from the omega, who immediately covered his mouth and nose with his arm, because it was already late and his tears had begun to come out.

- Nu? - Zee called out, worried.

-It hurts. -the omega replied in a choked voice.

His wounds hurt, but he was also crying from the loving way the alpha was caring for him.

-Nu… It's okay to cry, come. -Zee pressed himself closer to the surface, between the omega's legs. He wrapped his body in his arms, leaving his head in the crook of his neck. At that point the omega couldn't take it anymore and his sobs turned into deeper cries.

Zee hugged him tighter and tighter; although he hated it when the omega cried, this was a different situation; he had to give him the space to express what he felt. Nunew clung to him as well, drowning in the minty scent of the alpha.

Zee couldn't hold back any longer and moved away a little, so he could place a kiss on the omega's forehead. Feeling it, if Nunew's heart was already beating hard, now it felt like it was going to jump out of his chest at the same time as his stomach fluttered. The alpha began to go down, reaching his cheek, where Nunew gave him the freedom to do whatever he wanted there, so in that place Zee also passed his tongue, wiping away his tears. After this he went down a little more, and since at that moment he was already lost in that connection they had formed, he kissed Nunew's neck, causing the minor's skin to stand on end. That was a dangerous area, but he was out of it, and there Nunew's smell was intense. The aroma of strawberries with cream led him to leave a second kiss in the same place. He was not a fan of sweets, but Nunew's smell was tempting him greatly.

Nunew was holding him so tightly by the back while this was happening; Zee slid back up to his cheek, and subsequently crashed his forehead against his, bringing their noses together. Zee wasn’t the only one who was deep in the heat of the moment; Nunew raised his face a little, he knew he wanted it. However, they didn’t go through with the kiss they so desired, because between their instincts, sanity peeked out, remembering that they were in a public place. Instead, they hugged each other tighter again…

A fake cough interrupted them, and they had to separate. Max was there, one hand covering his eyes and the other carrying the emergency kit.

Nunew felt so embarrassed that he thought his face was going to explode… Plus any more and his little friend was going to get excited about what they were doing; he was already feeling pretty hot actually, but he didn't want the alpha to notice anything.

-Sorry I'm late, I had to get Mark out of a food stand… -Max finally uncovered his eyes. -Although I think I got there in time before they ended up going viral or something, there are still people around here.

Zee was also drowning in shame; for not controlling his instincts and thus risking Nunew. Without saying anything about the comment, he took the medicine chest.

-Thanks Max, I owe you one.

-Many actually, but I do it with pleasure, don't worry. -He smiled, despite being a joker, Max always showed him his loyalty. -For now I'll leave you, I'll take a walk through the offices and go home... Be careful.

-…-

-He… will he say something? - Nunew broke the silence that had formed after Max left, leaving the embarrassing moment behind. - He said he was going to the offices.

-I'm sure he'll leave a warning that I'll report on this later. - Zee replied, taking out what was needed to heal Nunew's wounds.

-… Will I get into trouble? -Nunew looked worried, the last thing he wanted was to earn the hatred of a teacher.

- Why would you have problems? That teacher was the one who made you do activities that are not in the program, plus the way he looked at you was unpleasant. -Zee spoke while cleaning Nunew's wounds with cotton, who shuddered due to the burning. -I saw how he was touching you when you were stretching and you didn't do anything Nunew, that guy was taking advantage.

- What are you talking about? - Nunew asked in an annoyed tone. - It's not like I'm letting him touch me because I like it.

-I didn't mean that, Nunew. -Zee replied, now applying gauze.

-Well, that's what it seems like. -Nunew was annoyed. -At that moment I could only stay still, I didn't know what to do and it was unpleasant for me.

-I never suggested you might like that… Nu, I'll put some ointment on your knees.

-But you said I just didn't do anything, and you make it sound like I gave him permission. -He replied watching the alpha work on his knees. -Besides, someone who sat in the stands looking at us like a pervert couldn't possibly talk about unpleasant things. -Ok, Zee understood that he was truly upset.

-I wasn't there with the intention of being a pervert, Nunew. -Zee faced him after putting the material away. -I was there because I wanted to talk to you when you were done.

- Really? – Nunew’s expression changed upon hearing that. -… About what?

-I don't think it's appropriate for us to talk now if you're so angry. -Maybe Zee was a little upset now too.

-It's not like that, I just want you to understand that it's unpleasant for an alpha to take advantage of his position to touch you. - Nunew lowered his gaze as he said that, and Zee felt a little guilty about what had happened between them a few minutes ago, since he hadn't asked permission to kiss him.

-I'm sorry. -The alpha apologized, taking him by the hands.

-So tell me what you were going to tell me. -Nunew looked at him again, waiting for answers.

-Okay. -He was a little afraid of his own words. -I came because I wanted to ask you something… There's a nobles' meeting at the Arkonix country club next weekend and I have to go on behalf of my parents… You know, just to socialize and all that. So, I wanted to know if you'd like to go with me, maybe and we could take a walk around the village after that.

Nunew's eyes lit up at the invitation.

-Arkonix is not that far from here, and it is a very beautiful place…

-Yes, I want to go. -Nunew replied before Zee could say anything else.

- Really? - Zee was amazed to see the omega giving him such a quick answer.

-Yes, I would like to go. -Nunew now looked cheerful, it had been a good idea to tell him after all.

-

As agreed, Zee took Nunew to Yim after everything that had happened. Yim was already waiting for them in front of the ballroom with Nunew's bag in his hand.

It was noticeable how things had changed by the fact that Yim was no longer confrontational with the alpha, instead, he was grateful and, before the alpha left, he asked him to show no mercy to the perverted teacher.

-That idiot said that you and the prince were exaggerating Nunew, I swear I only held back because I knew that your prince was going to teach him a lesson... - Yim was still furious about what had happened. - In fact, I would have paid to see him punch him.

-It will probably go very badly for him, Muyim, don't worry about it… - Nunew answered, already carrying his bag; however, he looked uncomfortable. -Uhm, let's go quickly to the showers, I feel very dirty.

In fact, the moment he had to walk back to the Nunew building he began to feel a certain humidity in a certain area... Something he confirmed when he entered the bathroom, because the result of the hugging and kissing session with the alpha was that his underwear was damp.

Oh, damn... Good thing I had a full emergency change of clothes.

-

-

-

-What do you think? -Yim asked his friend from behind him.

In front of the mirror, Nunew could see his perfectly groomed hair.

-It's okay Muyim, thank you. -Nunew looked at him through the mirror.

-When you told me you would need my help to get ready I was surprised, you always get ready well. - Yim commented while putting away his things.

-Well, today I needed to do better, I'm going to a place full of rich people. -Nunew answered, looking at him with some concern.

It was Saturday, very early in the morning. Days before, Nunew had asked Yim para for help getting ready, as he was going to the club with Zee, and the day had already arrived.

-You look great Nunew. -Tutor was face down, watching him from Yim's bed.

- Do you really think I look good? - Nunew asked, standing up, referring to his clothes.

-Your ass looks huge, that's what matters. -Yim replied praising him. -If that alpha doesn't like you, you'll surely conquer some old rich alpha and that will keep us both.

- Muyim! - Nunew exclaimed, embarrassed.

He had put on white trousers, which made his curves look even more pronounced. He also wore a white top with thick straps, and a knitted shirt over it, also white. He also added sandals to match everything.

He had chosen to go without his distinctive color to go unnoticed; he did not want to be the center of attention at such a meeting.

Then, his phone vibrated, disrupting the moment.

-He says he's coming. -Nunew said seriously upon seeing the message.

The three of them immediately moved; Nunew had not yet finished packing his things and, in fact, the room was a mess.

In a hurry, Nunew gathered his essential things into his bag… and some not-so-essential things due to the rush of the moment.

-Nunew. -Tutor caught his attention. -Share your location with us at all times.

-And call us if anyone tries to overstep their boundaries with you. - Yim finished.

Nunew smiled big at those comments, those two really were like his parents.

-

They picked him up shortly after; the trip to Arkonix was about an hour and a half, so Zee encouraged him to make himself comfortable during the trip, as well as giving him some things.

- Don't you have something to cover yourself from the sun? - Asked the alpha.

- My sunscreen? - Nunew answered, that being the only thing he had on. - I don't really have anything else, I never packed summer stuff when I came.

Spades was colder than Hearts, however, in the central part there were hot and sunny days.

For that same reason, Zee also dressed in a cool way, with a simple light blue shirt and white pants.

-I figured it would be like that. -Zee replied as he picked up a bag from the floor.

From there he took out a small box, which he handed to Nunew.

Nunew immediately opened it; it contained a pair of sunglasses… quite expensive, from what he could tell.

- This is too much! - Nunew exclaimed, afraid of scratching them.

-No, I actually have several. -Zee confessed. -Use those for today, I brought them for you… There's also a hat in the trunk, Mark will give it to you when we arrive.

Nunew was moved… and frightened by the ease with which the rich used expensive objects as if they were just any old thing. He tried the glasses on anyway, looking at himself through the front camera on his cell phone.

He felt cute, he couldn't help but press the capture button, saving the photo. All under the tender gaze of the alpha at his side.

-

-

From the moment they reached the parking lot, Nunew could sense the immensity of the place. As he watched, he felt something being placed on his head. With his hand he felt the hat Zee had brought for him, and turned to smile at him. Zee was already putting on his glasses, and he did the same.

-You're now well protected from the sun. -Zee said, as he received another hat for himself from Mark. -Never doubt how prepared Mark is.

-We can move forward, your majesty. - The aforementioned interrupted them, holding a backpack, possibly with other necessary items. -Don't worry, young Nunew, I'll protect you.

-Thank you, Mr. Mark. -The Omega replied, before starting the journey inside the club.

He walked quickly between Zee and Mark, through the long path that led to the entrance, which was surrounded by grass and luxurious fountains. Upon entering, they checked in, and then finally looked inside the club.

At the entrance, he could see the pool surrounded by chairs, in which several people were having fun. Around it were small tables covered with umbrellas… And Max sitting there waving. Zee had mentioned that Max would also be attending as a member of the club, so they wouldn't be completely among strangers.

Up ahead was an elevated area, where he saw many tables under a roof, it looked like an open-air restaurant. That was where Zee had to go.

-Nu, my meeting is there. -Zee pointed to the space in question. -We won't be long, and don't be afraid of those people.

Nunew nodded, a little shaky, at the idea of joining a group of nobles as a common boy from a separate kingdom.

-Okay. -He nodded.

Max had already stood up from his seat and approached them, so they walked together to the designated place; upon entering, one of the waiters led them to a table at the back of the room, which was separated from the others because it was reserved for the prince of the kingdom himself.

By this time several of those nobles had already looked at Nunew in astonishment, especially when they saw him sitting next to the prince and his companions.

More than one thought that this was going to be the news of the year in the Kingdom of Espadas: the crown prince, eternally single -and the most coveted-, appeared at a noble lunch with an unknown omega at his side.

- Your Majesty! Good morning - exclaimed an older woman approaching to greet him.

-Mrs Malee, good morning to you too. -Zee stood up to take the woman's hand, returning the greeting.

-Thank you very much, son. How are your parents? I asked for a basket of sweets to be sent to them from me, since I haven't been able to go and greet them recently.

-We have already received it, we are very grateful for the detail. -Zee answered with a kindness that Nunew had not seen before, and that made him somewhat amused, considering that he knew what the alpha was really like when he complained about that kind of people.

-But I see there's a new face here. -The lady had set her sights on him and Nunew already felt his hands sweating.

-That's right, Mrs. Malee, we have a friend with us today. -Zee turned to look at Nunew and he stood up to greet the woman. -This is Nunew. Nunew, this is Mrs. Malee, the Duchess of Spades.

-A pleasure, y-your excellency. -Nunew couldn't help but get even more nervous upon learning that she was a woman with such a high title.

-Nice to meet you boy, I hope you enjoy your lunch. - She replied pleasantly, and then turned to Zee. - Is he just your friend then? - She asked suggestively.

-That's right, Nunew is a friend. -Zee stressed the fact with the intention of not letting the woman make any uncomfortable comments in front of the omega.

-That's how my husband introduced me before making it public, all in good time, Your Excellency. -The voice of a man approaching them interrupted; he was apparently a little younger than the woman. He approached, but not before greeting Zee with a bow. -It's a pleasure to have you here, Your Majesty, and you guys too. -Max and Mark also responded to the greeting.

Nunew was struck by the man, for he was an omega. It was not so common to see older male omegas among the nobility. In times of old, stigmas made that unlikely.

-I see, you're right Adil. -She replied.

-Young people are making their lives more complicated these days. -He said again, setting his eyes on Nunew.

-Uhm… Prince Zee and I are actually friends. -Nunew dared to speak before the older omega's gaze.

-Don't worry boy, I understand. -He said, before being interrupted by someone else behind him.

-Mother, stop bothering Prince Zee's guests and return to the table, your food is getting cold.

Nunew saw that it was another male omega, who was around thirty years old and was carrying a child of approximately four years old in his arms... In addition to the fact that he had called him as mother ... He was definitely shocked by it. This was a noble family of male omegas.

- Can't socialize here anymore? - The omega named Adil replied with his hands on his waist. - I'm spending time with the Duchess, Prince Zee and guests, son.

-It's one thing to socialize and another thing to make others uncomfortable. -said the youngest omega, while his father imitated him and the woman next to him laughed.

At the table, Zee was watching Nunew, Nunew and Max were watching the funny scene, and Mark… Mark was eating while the food had already been served.

-I apologize for my father's impertinence, your majesty. - The omega with the child in his arms came closer to them, and Nunew couldn't take his astonished gaze off him.

-Don't worry, we're fine. -Zee replied.

-We're leaving, enjoy your lunch. - He said again, before turning to leave them.

-What sin must I have committed for you to be just like your father! -Adil exclaimed behind him.

- Mother!

-You and I are going through the same thing, Adil. - The duchess answered next to him before the four of them left.

There was a tense silence at the table, which was broken by Max's laughter.

-Sorry about that, it's almost always like that. -Zee said to Nunew, who was still looking towards where the group had gone.

-They don't seem like bad people. -Nunew commented, before turning his attention to the food in front of him.

-That's right, the ones who hate Zee are the older alphas . - Max interrupted, doing the same. -And some shameless betas .

-Max, don't refer to them like that. - Zee scolded. - Here. - He thought.

-I find it a little strange to see older male omegas in the nobility, I thought there were none. - Nunew dared to say, wanting to express his surprise. - My father told me that in ancient times, male omegas were not taken seriously enough to marry them.

That comment was striking to Zee, as it made sense of the resentment with which Nunew referred to the alphas on occasion.

-That's right. -Zee replied, somewhat embarrassed. -There are few male omegas in the nobility who have formed families, but there are some, like Mr. Adil; he married an alpha noble who didn't care what people said about them, and now they are even grandparents.

-How nice. - Nunew smiled tenderly at the information. -That's like a dream… When I was a teenager, I wished for something like that, but it seemed like my fellow alphas never stopped being brats even when they grew up, so I stopped wishing for it. - Without saying anything else, Nunew focused on the plate of food he hadn't touched yet.

At that moment, Zee felt Max crush his foot, and turned to see how he gave him a mocking smile.

Despite the awkward moment, Nunew looked happy enjoying the food and the place, which made the trip worth it for Zee.

-

-

- Will it be okay if we are here alone?

Both were walking through the narrow streets of Arkonix.

-No. -Zee answered. -Arkonix is very peaceful, and so Mark takes advantage of the opportunity to rest for a while at the club.

-Okay. -Nunew smiled, and then looked at the beauty of the place. -It's very beautiful, it seems as if we had traveled back in time.

-The tools used by the royal guard are made here, and it is also where the Spade Harvest Festival takes place. It is one of the villages that has preserved its old customs and also its ancient architecture.

The alpha was right, the streets were made of stones and the houses around them looked like they were taken from a historical photography book, giving the appearance of a quiet rustic town.

-Mmm. -Nunew grunted thoughtfully. -Too bad we didn't get to come to the festival.

-No problem, I can bring you when the festival is.

Nunew looked up at the alpha, his expression joyful.

- Really? - At his question, Zee nodded. But at that moment something crossed his mind - Well, I hope I'm still here, you know... I'm just on an exchange.

Zee was shocked to remember this fact. It was true, Nunew would only be here for a certain amount of time and he would have to return to Hearts. It was a painful thought now that this omega had become vital to him; and Nunew didn't know it yet, but Zee had become aware that he wasn't looking at him with the eyes of a friend.

-… I will find a way. -Zee's words made Nunew look up in surprise, and at the same time he took him by the hands. -I am the Prince of Spades, I will go find you wherever you are to bring you to see the festival.

Nunew's cheeks turned redder than his rouge, and the joy of hearing this was overwhelming him.

-So… We'll see if Prince Zee keeps his promises. - he answered while swinging his hands intertwined with the elder's.

-You shouldn't doubt that, Nu. -The alpha answered with a challenging touch.

After that promise sealed between them, they continued their journey through the town; they walked between the different local stalls, Nunew could not resist buying trinkets, they enjoyed street shows, they ate in the open-air restaurants…

“Look at Zee, a pet store”

“I miss my kitten; his name is July and I had to leave him to come here”

“I only have dogs, and my horse that lives in the stables. You have to go meet him Nu”

“ This is very nice, I'm going to buy it”

“Don’t worry, I’ll pay, I was the one who invited you.”

“Zee, let’s eat at one of those places with the tables outside.”

“Nu, why do you carry a remote control in your bag?”

“I packed my things in a hurry with the help of Yim and Tutor”

“Shall we take a picture? I’m not going to upload it.”

“I wouldn’t really mind, but there would be a lot of eyes on you.”

“There are probably people here who have already recognized me, but that doesn’t bother me at all.”

“I'll only show it to my friends. My friend Ally, from Hearts, will die when she recognizes you.”

“Look, from here you can see the snow-capped mountains”

“Picas is a snowy kingdom with a warm heart”

“And can we go to the snow?”

“Someday I will take you there”

-

-

They arrived at the dorm at nightfall, both exhausted after a day full of activity. Nunew had fallen asleep during the trip, so he was woken up by Zee as soon as they arrived, and when they got off, Zee offered to walk him back to his room before visiting hours ended.

Zee had never entered the room, let alone the omega wing, so he followed Nunew. When they arrived, they both felt nervous, looking at each other in the solitude of that hallway.

-Today was a lot of fun. -Nunew broke the tension that had formed at the moment.

-It wouldn't have been if you hadn't gone. -Zee was direct with it, it wasn't a trip he was looking forward to, but being with the omega had made it one of his best days.

-It's not that bad, you have many interesting trips. -Nunew answered somewhat embarrassed upon hearing the alpha.

-Yes, but they tend to be boring… - He didn't know what else to say, but he didn't want the conversation to end, even though time was running out and he had to leave.

-I guess we'll see each other… -Nunew tried to make way for the farewell, feeling the weight of the alpha's gaze on him.

-Yes… -Zee approached him, and dared to wrap him in a hug.

However, before separating from him, he felt himself being pulled by the shoulders, and he also felt the warmth of the omega's lips collide with his.

It was a quick and simple kiss, but it turned his world upside down, and when he pulled away, he saw a Nunew red up to the ears.

-You were taking too long… so I had to do it. - Nunew spoke quickly, before trying to walk away, but he couldn't do it.

The alpha held him by the waist before he left, and as a desperate act he kissed him again, now in a more passionate way in which Nunew let himself be carried away by passing his arms around his neck; he responded with the same intensity, giving his tongue permission to enter his mouth.

They had both been craving this so badly, not sure exactly how long they had been craving it, but that was the least of their worries at the moment. Nunew stood on his tiptoes, and Zee held on tightly to his waist, as if hoping he would never leave his side.

They had tried to encapsulate that love so uselessly, that it had already overflowed… So, they didn't notice when Yim quietly opened the door, finding that scene. But as he didn't want to interrupt them, he slowly entered the room again and closed it, however, the sound of the door closing managed to reach both of their ears, which immediately broke the kiss.

They needed to breathe anyway, but if they hadn't heard the door they probably would have done it again.

Nunew hugged Zee's chest, he didn't want him to leave, but they had to separate.

-See you at the university. -He said and walked away from him, still looking at him.

Nunew was seriously thinking that if they didn't part ways there, he wouldn't do it anymore. And in reality, he didn't mind facing "the talk" that Yim would give him when he entered the room, but he had to let the alpha return home, it was already late and it had been a long day.

-See you… -The alpha answered, his head still spinning, watching him enter the room, staying alone in the hallway, hoping that the strawberry flavor of Nunew's lipstick would never go away.

He was being happy, after many years of feeling miserable.

-

Chapter Text

-Hi mom, how is everyone? -Nunew was alone in the room, lying on his bed and talking on the phone.

He still hadn't fully assimilated everything that had happened on the trip to Arkonix, so he felt a strong need to put his doubts on the table to talk about them, and he thought of his mother as the perfect person to do so, after all they trusted each other a lot. Besides, he was missing her a lot right now.

-Hi son, everything's fine here. How are you? Your brother misses you so much that he even cleaned your room for when you visit us, since the holidays are coming up.

-I'm fine mom… -Oh wow, I really was, but I was also scared to the same degree. -Tell Tee that thanks… mmmh…

- Is something wrong, son?

-Mom… Are my brother and dad around? -It's not that he didn't trust them 100%, but he knew how protective they were of him and he didn't want them to draw their own conclusions from a phone conversation.

-No, they both went to the supermarket, why?

-Well… I would like to ask you something… Private.

-Tell me, my love, what is it? Did something happen to you? - The woman sounded quite surprised over the line.

-Mom, when an alpha likes you… How does he behave?

-…Nu.

-Mom, don't think too much, it's just a doubt because of something Yim is going through. -Nunew thought quickly, he was sure that it was not yet time to say something about Zee, because even he was not clear about things, they had not yet spoken.

-…Well, look son, alphas are very territorial and when one of them likes you, he will first show you that he is there and is strong enough to take care of you, so if that alpha usually follows him, or always takes the opportunity to ask him out, he is showing him that he likes him.

That definitely made sense. So, clutching the stuffed kitten to his chest, he continued to probe.

-… What if he gives him things?

-That's more obvious, son. An alpha who takes the time to make or buy something for you is because he thinks of you, even when he doesn't see you.

-I see…

Aside from everything, that stuffed animal was totally something that suited his tastes.

-Son, tell Yim that alpha is showing that he loves him, not to be afraid.

-…Yes, thanks mom, I'll tell him.

-And one more thing, you know that you have all my trust, baby, even if your father has to be persuaded on something. - He heard his mother's light laugh through the call.

-Thanks mom, I'll call you if there's any more gossip to tell you. -He felt happy, he would tell Yim about his imaginary suitor later.

He said goodbye to her and hung up the call.

He was left with a good taste in his mouth, he was afraid of what it would be like to meet the alpha the next day, but at the same time he longed to see him.

Who would have thought?

After all, that had been the alpha who had made his life miserable since he arrived at Spades.

The night they last saw each other, after Yim’s long talk about bees, flowers, and “dirty bumblebees touching your ass.” He received a “Good night <3” from the alpha, replied with a heart emoji as well, and from there they hadn’t had any more conversation.

-

-

-

Now he walked through the halls of the university with a big smile, and also with the stuffed kitten already visible hanging from his backpack.

At his side, Yim did not ignore that happiness, looking at him with his judging eyes, he trusted the alpha, but first there was the concern for his best friend, so when they arrived at the floor where they were headed, he stopped to talk to him.

Early in the morning, Nunew had received a text from Zee, asking him to meet him in the tutoring room at a certain time. Nunew's heart pounded hard against his chest as he read it, because he knew that Zee had no commitments at the university that day, meaning that he would go alone for him.

-Nu. -Yim called him, making him stop as well. -Make it clear to him that you are not just any omega, and if he loves you, he will respect you and give you your place.

-Muyim, I know, don't worry about it.

-I'm worried Nu, weeks ago you were telling me you couldn't stand him and then I found you two kissing. It's a lot to process for me Nunew.

- Yim! – Nunew covered his mouth, anyone could pass by and hear those words, and when it came to Zee, it would be outrageous.

That was the other detail: It was important to talk about what would happen between them, since Zee was the prince.

-I don't know how it happened either, I just know that it happened and now here we are. -He said, removing his hands from his friend's face. -I'm going in to see him now, it's important that we talk.

-I wish you luck Nu, and I'll be around here anyway. Don't make plans with him today either because we have an outing, okay? - Yim pointed at him with his finger.

Nunew nodded, turned around, and with a firm step and a racing heart, he reached the tutoring room, knocked on the door, and opened it as soon as he heard Zee's voice in the background telling him to come in.

-

As he entered, he saw Zee on the couch using his laptop. Seeing this, he put the machine down on the table and stood up.

Nunew approached him, taking off his backpack to leave it on the couch, but standing in front of the alpha.

- Did you want to see me? - He asked, staring at him.

-Always. -That had been so direct that Nunew felt as if he were going to melt.

At first, he was afraid that perhaps he was going too fast, but now it seemed that the two of them were on the same pace.

-I'm serious. -He replied, tapping him on the chest.

-Me too Nu. But I understand what you're talking about, I called you because I wanted to talk about what happened. - Hearing this, a shiver ran through Nunew. -First of all, I would like to make it clear to you that I'm not an alpha who's looking for omegas just to hang out, I've never done anything like that Nunew.

Nunew looked at him calmly, noticing how nervous the older man was when he spoke.

-Zee, calm down, I'm not pointing fingers at you.

-I know Nu, but I still want to make that clear. The statements I've made about not having a partner and not looking for one have always been sincere... However... -Zee seemed to be mixing up his attempt at a statement with a media statement due to nerves, but the latter made Nunew look at him in a more excited way.

To try to get things moving, Nunew tried to calm him down by holding his hands.

-Zee, you are not facing your people, you are only facing Nu.

-Nu… -Zee seemed to calm down a little at the omega's touch. -I really like you, Nu. I know we didn't meet in a friendly way, but at some point, I only thought that I wanted to be with you.

-I like you too. - Nunew didn't want to prolong the confession; although it was true that he couldn't stand him recently, he had also been brave in accepting when his feelings had changed.

- Really? - Nunew nodded, and let go of his hands to hug him, which Zee reciprocated. - Damn, and to think that last night I had to ask Fae to get me Melatonin tablets, since I couldn't sleep because I was thinking the worst.

Hearing that, Nunew pulled away slightly to look at his face.

- You have a lot of intrusive thoughts, don't you? - He asked him with surprise and concern.

-They live under my pillow.

…

-We'll have to work on it. -Nunew replied and hugged him again. -For now… What do we do now?

- Would you like to go out with me?... This is all very new, so we could start there.

-Yes, I do. - Nunew nodded happily, and took advantage of the few seconds in which they were left alone looking at each other happily to inquire about his itinerary. -So… you just came to talk to me?

-That's right, I have a meeting in a few hours, so I have to get back to get ready. -With that, Zee packed his things.

-I see. -Nunew imagined the older boy had work to do, but he still felt a little discouraged. Although, he still had classes the rest of the day anyway.

-But we could do something tomorrow if you want… like a date or something. - Upon hearing the word “date” Nunew’s face lit up immensely.

He had never been on a date before, and he had always thought he wanted all of that in a relationship. But his student life was coming to an end and he was resigning himself to the fact that something like that would never happen to him.

- Yes! - He exclaimed happily, almost scaring the alpha. - I would like to, we could go to… - Nunew thought for a few moments. - I'm not from here, so I don't know places, so…

-Don't worry, I'll take care of it.

-Okay, and anyway… I just remembered that Muyim wants to go out partying today, to a bar or something.

- A bar? -Zee thought about something for a few seconds. -Okay, just take care of yourselves.

-Don't worry, we're going with other friends. -Nunew said, making the OK sign with his hand.

Zee finished packing his things, and finally said goodbye to Nunew with a hug as soon as they reached the door.

Nunew, for his part, went in search of Yim; he had to tell him what had happened.

-

-

As night fell, just as Nunew had said, they ventured out, and now before them was the illuminated facade of a large bar that at first glance looked luxurious.

-Muyim, do you think this is within our reach? - asked Nunew, intimidated by the ostentatiousness of the site.

-Many of our companions come here Nunew, and they are not rich. - Yim assured. -Besides, it is only fair to celebrate that you have hunted down the heir to the kingdom himself.

Next to them, Leo cheered, drawing the attention of some passersby.

Nunew covered his face, embarrassed.

-Lower your voices, that still needs to be kept private, guys. -Tutor scolded them when he saw Nunew looking embarrassed.

-Let's go in then, the night is young. - Yim said and walked towards the door.

-

As expected, the interior of the bar exuded luxury; the purple-blue neon lights gave off a fresh and modern vibe, giving the feeling of freedom despite how crowded the bar was.

They looked for a table surrounded by armchairs at the back of the room, which they had to cross through the crowd of people to get to. Something that was a bit uncomfortable for Nunew, since he did not usually visit this type of place, and the mixture of their smells disgusted him because of the proximity to people.

Finally, sitting down was a relief for him, he was out of the crowd and could breathe.

-Now, all that's left is to go get our drinks. - Yim announced, raising his voice so they could hear him.

Nunew let out a deep sigh and leaned back in his chair; that was a resounding no to getting up again.

- Fine, I'll go get mine and Nunew's. - Yim said immediately.

-Muyim remember that we have classes tomorrow, don't overdo it. -Nunew told him out loud as well.

-Everything will be fine, Nu. - Yim assured him. -Now, Leo, come with me to the counter bar, I see Tutor avoiding looking at me.

- Great! Let's drink until we wake up lying down and without slippers somewhere far from the bedroom... - Was the last thing the youngest alpha said before leaving with Yim.

-… I do not share that desire. -Nunew said to Tutor.

-Don't worry, I'll see how I handle Yim.

After a while they returned with the promised drinks, making Nunew a little fearful of what Yim might have ordered for him.

His surprise was great when the aforementioned placed in front of him a glass with a pink liquid and decorated with a strawberry.

-I found something perfect for you Nunew, this suits you very well. -Yim expressed with great confidence.

- Should I be scared?

-No, it's a strawberry daiquiri, I was told it wasn't high in alcohol and since it has strawberries it looks like you. -Nunew was amused by that comment, and it made him feel good how well his friend knew him. -Tutor and I will have vodka.

- Yim! – the alpha exclaimed upon hearing this. – I have to drive, so you'll drink it alone.

And while the pair of friends were arguing, no one noticed that Leo had already started drinking.

After a while, Yim was already on the dance floor dancing with a group of strangers along with Leo. Nunew was still in his place along with Tutor, despite it being a “low alcohol” drink, he felt a little dizzy. After all, he was not used to drinking alcoholic beverages.

- Wouldn't you like to come over and dance for a while? - Tutor suddenly brought him out of his reverie. - After all, we're here celebrating your love life.

Nunew couldn't help but smile at that; and Tutor was right, it should be a reason to be happy.

-Okay. -He answered convinced. -Let's go with them.

They stood up from their spot to approach their friends. Nunew liked to dance, but he still felt quite shy being around strangers. Yim, seeing him, pulled him by the arm, encouraging him to dance together. That way, Nunew was able to gain some confidence and dance alongside his friend, as while they were together, he could feel less afraid.

However, minutes into the dance, he felt someone pull him by the arm. At first he thought it was Yim again, or even one of his alpha friends, but when he perceived a strong bitter smell mixed with alcohol, he came to his senses and saw that it was a tall man, dressed in black, which made him alert.

-Hey, don't be afraid, I'm not going to do anything to you, I just happened to recognize you and couldn't help but come over to meet you. - Said the stranger.

- Know me? I don't know him, I'm not even from here. - Nunew immediately became defensive, that could be a tactic to trick him.

-I know, that's what the rumors say, they say that his majesty set his eyes on a foreign omega. - the man confessed, completely disconcerting Nunew.

Rumors? What rumors?

-I would like to meet you, we could be friends. -He said taking his hand, to which Nunew reacted immediately trying to get away.

- Let me go! - Nunew was getting more agitated, and his scream alerted other people.

- I'm not going to do anything to you, dramatic omega! - The man grabbed him by the arms by force, causing Nunew to scream again, this time for help.

Such help was not long in coming, as the stranger was knocked to one side by someone else.

- Nunew! - Yim shouted, he had pushed the man hard and immediately left that to go hug him. After him came Tutor who hit the man before he could return and attack them.

People around them had stepped aside to watch the fight, but before the unknown man could do anything against them, several members of the security service grabbed him by the arms and led him away.

-Yim… That man tried to take me away. -Nunew called out in horror, hugging him tighter.

Tutor, seeing the scene, went to them and hugged them both. At that moment, someone else appeared between the other guards in the bar and approached them.

-Excuse me for interrupting you. -He called out to them, causing them to become defensive again. -Don't be afraid, I'm not here to hurt you.

The man was quite tall, dressed neatly in a dark blue suit, and did not seem to give off a dangerous vibe.

He was an alpha; they were sure of that.

-I've come to apologize for what just happened. Let me introduce myself, I'm Joss Wayar and I'm the owner of the bar. -He bowed to him in apology, and now he turned to Nunew. -I'd like you and your friends to join me for a while, I've already called Zee and he's on his way here.

With that Nunew felt even more confused, that bar owner knew him, he also knew Zee and besides, he referred to him in a very familiar way.

- How do we know it's true? - Yim interrupted him angrily.

In response, the man pulled out his phone, searched for something quickly, and showed them the screen: It was a photo of him along with Zee and Max at the same bar.

-I'll explain it to you upstairs. -He said, finishing convincing them.

They looked at each other doubtfully, but finally decided to listen to him and follow him. All without separating from each other.

They went up with him to a quieter area, apparently some sort of special guest area. There, Joss offered them some drinks and snacks, which Yim accepted -but was very offended-.

- So, you're a friend of Zee's? - Nunew asked, still holding Yim by the arm.

-Yes, we've been together since college. - The eldest replied, pouring himself a glass of wine. -Obviously, we're very busy now and we don't meet up often.

-You said you had already called him. - Tutor interrupted them, drawing everyone's attention. - Had he noticed what was happening and not sent someone from security before?

-Don't get me wrong, things happened very fast and I called him as soon as I saw the stranger approaching you. My security acted as soon as he saw the situation turned hostile. -Joss admitted. -But I admit my mistake in not keeping a specific watch on him since he entered.

At that, footsteps coming from the stairs alerted them; Zee had run up and was now looking around for them, followed by Mark.

Nunew, seeing him, got up and ran to him.

- Zee! - He exclaimed, getting his attention, and then he wrapped his arms around him.

Zee immediately reciprocated, leaving a kiss on his forehead on the spot.

-I'm sorry I didn't get here sooner, Nu, I hurried as much as I could. - He said without letting go of him. - It didn't hurt you, did it?

-No, it was just a scare. - The shorter one answered without moving away, inhaling as much of the alpha's scent as possible, which made him feel calm.

-I didn't want to meet your partner in a situation like this, but it just happened. -Joss stood up from his seat.

-Joss, who was it? - Zee asked firmly.

-Another visitor in black. -His friend replied. -Sit down, you better calm down.

Following his friend's request, Zee sat down with Nunew, while Mark joined the rest of the security detail.

-My records indicate that he entered alone, and intercepted Nunew as soon as he saw him approaching the crowd. -Joss continued to explain. -Apparently, he was just waiting for the moment.

- What do you mean by visitor in black? - Nunew dared to ask.

-It comes from Joker Land. -Zee answered.

-And we've had a few others before, all with bad manners, but this is the first one to do something like this. -Joss added.

-Your Majesty. -Yim suddenly called out to Zee. -Couldn't you just forbid them from entering the kingdom?

-That would create more friction between Joker Land and Spades, Yim. But we still require a visa for their entry, if they are here, it is because they have passed without problems. - Zee explained.

-He said he knew me. -Nunew said.

All eyes fell on him, it was an unexpected situation that generated more doubts.

-It would be good if you could give us any information, Nunew. We are keeping track of every incident with them. - Joss answered, placing his glass on the table, giving him a serious look.

-Uhm… Well, I don't know him, I didn't even know about them. But he said there were rumors that Prince Zee had set his sights on a foreign omega.

- Did they infiltrate the university? - The question came from Tutor. - I'm not saying that people know something, but seeing them... I think anyone would suspect.

Such a statement made Zee and Nunew look at each other somewhat embarrassed.

-Or maybe it's just the gossip going around. - Yim added.

-The question is how he recognized Nu. -Zee said.

-Nunew can be seen in the distance, Your Majesty. -Yim replied.

-That's a good point. -Joss said. -Clubs visitors are more common at Spades. However, there are no reports of incidents involving them at the university.

-There aren't any that I know of. -Zee said. -Anyway... For now, I think it's best if I take Nu to the dorm. Joss, send the information about this to Max, we need to keep monitoring the case.

-Don't worry, I'll keep them informed. -Joss replied, and looked at Nunew. -Nice to meet you, Nunew, I apologize again for having met like this. You and your friends can come again whenever you want; the house pays in apologies for what happened.

Nunew nodded, although he had no plans to return after what had happened. But he still liked the idea of getting to know the people close to Zee.

- Could you help us locate our friend Leo? We lost him during the incident. - Tutor said, raising his hand.

Joss laughed in response, sending his men to locate the boy.

-

-

Nunew had decided to leave in Zee's car, he was still nervous about what had happened and he needed to be close to him to calm down. There were many doubts, but he preferred not to delve into them.

-Zee. -He called from the darkness of the car. -Do you remember our date?... Could it be at home?

-Nu…

-I know I'm ruining it, but just this once we could change the plan...

-Nu, you're not ruining it. I understand that you're still feeling nervous, so it's okay if we just stay home. -Zee took his hand encouragingly.

- Could you come to the student residence?  I have already seen your house, so you could see my little room here.

-Okay, Yim won't have a problem with that? - Zee caressed his hand carefully, understanding that for the moment it was better for Nunew to feel safe.

-No, he'll probably go with Tutor, so he'll leave us alone.

That comment made Zee nervous, and it also made Mark look at them curiously through the rearview mirror.

-… Because you know, it's a date and we could watch a movie… -Nunew was already nervous too when he realized how suggestive he had sounded.

-Sounds like a great plan to me. -Zee interrupted him to calm his nerves.

Nunew gave a big sigh in response, it was definitely too much excitement in one night. So, in the meantime, he rested his head on Zee's shoulder.

-

When they stopped in front of the dorm, they noticed Tutor, Yim, and Leo standing on the sidewalk, waiting for them. So, they got out and approached them to see if there was anything wrong -other than Leo having fallen because he was drunk-.

-Nu, I think we already know how that stranger recognized you. - Yim announced as soon as they approached them, and showed them his phone.

On the screen you could see a Twitcard window open, specifically on a post with a news story:

“Royal Romance: Has the Prince Found Love?”

And in the news image you could see a photo taken from a distance of them walking together through the streets of Arkonix.

However, Nunew could not be seen clearly because of his hat and sunglasses.

-There is a clearer one in the comments. -Yim said, showing them the post in question.

The photo now showed them sitting at one of the outdoor tables at the Arkonix restaurants, it had also been taken from a distance and Nunew could be seen better in profile, without the glasses and hat.

Nunew picked up the phone, beginning to scroll through the comments, which provided information.

“I have seen it at my university”

“Prince Zee is doing his masters at the university, they met there”

“They say the boy is a foreigner”

“Maybe he will be our next Queen?”

“Will it be a relationship arranged by the crown?”

“The King is sick, maybe they fixed it”

-Nu. -Zee approached him, putting his hand on his shoulder. -I'm sorry... Sooner or later something like this was going to happen.

Nunew handed the phone back to Yim and turned to Zee.

-It's okay. -He clarified, first, while playing with his fingers. -It's just something strange for me, and well… I have to be careful around strangers now.

Zee sighed deeply; he knew he had to keep a closer eye on everything that happened because he was no longer alone. He approached and hugged Nunew again, he had to leave soon because it was so late.

-If at any time you feel in danger, call me and my service will go take care of you. -He said while caressing his back.

- Zee! It's not that bad. - Nunew said, laughing lightly.

-We'll be looking after you too, Nu. - Yim said from behind him.

Nunew broke the hug to smile at his friend, if there was one thing, he could be sure of it was that with them he would never be alone.

-

-

-

-

After lying down and checking that Yim was already asleep, Nunew took out his phone and, under the covers, went back to TwitCard, looking for more comments about them.

The post had not been shared that much, so there was not much of a conversation around the topic.

However, it turns out that it was not the viralization that Nunew was interested in investigating, Nunew was curious about the subject of a relationship arranged by the crown.

It wasn't that he didn't trust the truth of Zee's feelings for him, but those comments made him think about what was in store for the two of them, since they weren't an ordinary couple. Zee had responsibilities as a prince and he didn't know what would happen to their relationship in that regard.

But he didn't feel motivated to ask Zee about it, they weren't even in a completely formal relationship yet.

He decided not to think about it anymore and left the phone on the table, tomorrow would be another day.

-

Chapter Text

The next day, Nunew had his last class with Zee. What had initially been a torment for him was now the most anticipated thing.

Their meeting was different from all the previous times, with Nunew in place by the time Zee arrived. But he no longer ignored him, now he watched him enter without taking his eyes off him. Also, earlier he had noticed that people weren't looking at him strangely for being a student from Hearts, in fact, they were looking at him with curiosity because of the rumors that were circulating about his relationship with Zee.

Zee sat down, and Nunew remembered that many of the couples he had seen throughout his student life gave each other a kiss as a greeting when they met. Unfortunately for him, at least at that moment, being able to do something like that was not possible.

- Do you feel calmer now? - Zee asked sweetly.

Nunew nodded, he had decided to forget the incident and be more careful around strangers.

-I'm fine.

-

-

The teacher entered the classroom on time, greeted the group and first focused on seeing the alpha prince, who was leaning towards his table partner, the foreign omega, Nunew.

Of course, the rumor involving them was being talked about in the teachers' lounge, and since he was the only teacher who had them together in class, many questions had fallen on him. And, in reality, he was not surprised at all. He had seen them pay more attention to each other than they paid to him during class. He had seen how Prince Zee broke his own seriousness just for that boy. He had also seen how Chawarin was capable of leaving class just to be the prince's comfort in difficult times.

So, it didn't surprise him at all to walk in and find them looking at each other and smiling at each other. However, he wasn't going to investigate it, in the end that relationship was just theirs.

-

-

-

After the day at school, they both arrived at the living room; it was the first time that Zee had walked straight into Nunew's room. There was no shortage of curious glances along the way, as it was still early and there were students wandering around the hallways.

Zee sat in the desk chair as he watched Nunew arrange his bed so they could fit in there, meanwhile he looked around the room; it was big enough for two people, it was cozy too, and they had both adapted it to their needs, like the nightstand with the TV that Nunew pushed in front of his bed.

-He woke up early to clean everything up before going to class. -That voice had been Yim's, who was coming out of the bathroom. -So, you must really appreciate his effort.

-Believe me, I do. -He replied.

-Then, I'll leave you two alone, if you need me, I'll be in Tutor's room. -He told them approaching to take his things. -And you know. -He said pointing at the alpha. -This is a decent bedroom; carnal sins are not committed here.

-Muyim! -Nunew, behind him, hit him with a pillow. -Don't be saying such things.

-It's just a warning, Nunew.

Nunew continued to poke him with the pillow until he saw him off at the door.

It's not like he thought "something" was going to happen... But to others it seemed like a given; for example, that morning Mark had said goodbye to him with a "Good luck, your majesty." At first, he hadn't understood it, then he got the message.

-Ready. -Nunew called out to him, having already finished arranging the space.

He had placed the TV in front of the bed, and a plate of fried foods and some glasses of soda on the nightstand.

Nunew climbed onto the bed and called for him to do the same, so he dropped his coat and shoes aside and followed.

He had never done anything like this before; he was used to his movie theater, or any rather lavish event. However, he was enjoying it, it was something very simple and new for him.

He sat down next to Nunew on the bed; the little boy had placed several pillows against the headboard for them to lean on -it made him wonder if Nunew had ever made a nest-. The bed wasn't that big, but they could fit in it just fine.

- What do you think? - Nunew asked excitedly.

Zee leaned back against the pillows and stretched.

-It's much more comfortable than the movie theater, if I could I would sleep here.

-Mmmh, don't exaggerate, this mattress is not as comfortable as yours probably is.

-But the company makes the difference. -Zee assured that, straightening up again. -So, what will we see?

-I don't know, let's see what options we have. -Nunew took the remote control and turned on the TV, to go through the list of movies contained in the platform.

In the end they found something between the drama genre, they had no fixed interest because the intention was to spend an afternoon together as their first date.

-

At first Nunew pulled the plate of fries towards his legs and they settled down to watch their movie, later the plate was pushed aside and he and Zee leaned back on the pillows. It wasn't long before Zee subtly slipped his arm behind him, prompting Nunew to snuggle up against his chest.

The movie continued, both of them watching it, but little by little their attention was lost as Zee lightly caressed Nunew's arm. Night was already falling, so the only light became the TV screen.

Nunew had already stopped paying attention to the movie and looked up at Zee, who still seemed focused on the screen. But in reality, he was fighting his nerves internally. Then, he noticed that Nunew was looking at him and turned to look at him too; the omega was looking at his lips as if waiting for him to take the initiative, so he did the same. It was impossible not to see those red lips, so pompous that it made you want to bite them.

So, he sent everything to hell and did it, he missed his taste, they hadn't kissed since the night they returned from the trip.

He knew how judged he would be if they knew he was letting his instincts get the better of him, but he wasn't the only one, Nunew had already latched onto him, wrapping his arms around his neck. And not only that, but the omega briefly broke contact and let go of his neck to climb on top of him and kiss him again.

FUCK, HE DIDN'T EXPECT THAT.

For his part, Nunew was just going with the flow of what he wanted to do. He had read those alphas liked omegas to be daring, so he wanted to prove that he could handle it, and he liked doing it. However, he shivered a little when he felt Zee's hands caressing his thighs and hips. Would he like what he was feeling? He had accentuated curves, so they were the plumpest areas of his body and sometimes they made him insecure.

What he didn't know was that Zee had been wanting to do that for a while, ever since he had become aware of how much he enjoyed watching those hips sway when the omega walked.

While Nunew was worrying about that, Zee suddenly sat up, leaving him straddling his lap. He felt a tingling sensation in his lower abdomen as he realized he was practically sitting on a dangerous spot, and even more so when Zee began to move down, kissing his neck. But they didn't stay like that, Zee laid him down and positioned himself on top of him to continue licking and kissing his neck.

The television was the only thing that illuminated them, while Nunew let out small sighs as he felt the alpha's tongue moisten his skin. He also felt him caress his hips, moving from there to his thighs. He also began to run his hands along the older man's broad back, drawing him closer to him. He didn't know exactly what else he should do from that position; his mind was blank and he still felt afraid.

- Mmg...aahh! - That moan had come out of his mouth suddenly, while his skin was bristling as he felt one of the alpha's hands slip under his tshirt, now having direct contact with his abdomen. That was when one of his insecurity alarms went off.

He suddenly removed his hands from the older man's back and brought them up to cover his mouth. He was now staring at a stunned Zee above him, who had already removed his hand from that spot.

-I... I have to go to the bathroom. -He told him, and the alpha got off of him to let him get up.

Nunew quickly stood up and, avoiding eye contact, ran to the bathroom.

Zee watched him leave without saying a word. Then he looked down at his crotch, he too needed a bath.

-

-

Inside the bathroom, Nunew covered his face as he leaned against the door. Would Zee have been upset by that? After all, it had cut him moment short.

He approached the mirror, looking at his disheveled hair and his lipstick slightly smudged. Not to mention that inside his pants his member was still semi-hard and had also begun to get wet.

Everything had become chaotic. But what had scared him the most was Zee touching his abdomen, which for him was flaccid, and therefore, ugly.

Plus, they were in the school dormitory, they shouldn't have even started doing any of that.

For now, he had to get himself as tidy as possible before leaving the bathroom.

-

-

Zee was still lying on the bed, his arms crossed over his face. Once again he felt like he had crossed a line, Nunew had never given him permission to touch him under his clothes.

But the damn alpha hormones were powerful and had ignited in the heat of the moment.

He could have kept thinking of more things to blame himself for, but his phone rang, it was an incoming call. He picked it up to see if it was something that could ruin the moment more, and it was Fae, at an excellent time to add conflict. So, he answered immediately or it could be worse.

[Your Majesty, when are you coming back? It's already dark.]

-Hi Fae, I'll be there soon, I'm still in the dorms.

[Your Majesty, I want to sound nice, but the reality is that you urgently need to return, NOW.]

Zee sighed, what could be happening now?

-Fae… I'll go as fast as I can, but I haven't left the room yet.

-

Nunew managed as best he could with a few things that -fortunately- he had in the bathroom medicine cabinet.

He took a deep breath, grabbed the doorknob and turned it slowly, but as he opened it a crack, he heard Zee talking on the phone, so he stood there, listening.

-No, not yet.

…

-No Fae, we're still dating, we don't have a formal relationship yet, don't involve more things.

…

-I know I have many responsibilities, but I have not failed to fulfill any of them.

…

-I'll stay at the office late if possible, but I also want to be with Nunew.

…

-This is not the time to talk about that Fae, Nu is the boy I'm dating, he is not any “future Queen”.

…

-I'll know what to do Fae... Look, okay, send Mark now... Yeah, okay, see you.

-

Nunew stood frozen against the door, what was going on with the subject of the “future Queen”?

He didn't want to think about it, but he couldn't help but think about what Zee thought about them and their future. And it wasn't that he was looking to be with him to get something, he just knew that one day Zee would take the throne as King, and what would happen to them when that happened?

The conversation made it clear to him that the alpha did not see him as his “Queen.” And that made him think that he did not want to be some sort of concubine or have an extramarital relationship if Zee was ever made to join someone else.

“You’re not the type of omega I like.”

Suddenly, that phrase came back to his mind. What if Zee really had a “type” of omega that he liked? Maybe that was the reason he wasn’t going to look at him as a life partner, maybe for that he needed to be from a high social class.

- Nu? -Zee's voice brought him out of his thoughts, so he opened the door and saw him standing.

-I'm sorry… I was just getting ready. - He said in a low voice, watching the alpha begin to gather his things.

-Don't worry. -Zee smiled at him as he finished putting on his shoes. -I'll help you clean, unfortunately Fae requires me in the palace, so I must go.

-Alright…

- Can I come into the bathroom? I'm a little disheveled… - Zee wasn't much different from himself when he entered the bathroom, even in the dark he could see how disheveled his hair was.

-Yes, go ahead. - He stepped aside to let the older man in.

While Zee occupied the bathroom, he turned on the light and began to pick up things, as well as move the furniture into place.

From one second to the next his good spirits had vanished, now he just wanted to go to sleep.

Zee emerged shortly after, ready to leave. He put on his coat and Nunew handed him his briefcase, then walked with him to the door.

-Nu… -Zee turned to him before opening the door. -Nu, I'm sorry if I did something to upset you, it won't happen again, I'm sorry…

- What? -Nunew looked at him strangely. -No, you didn't do anything wrong Zee… It's just that there are things that aren't easy for me, I've never… I don't want you to be disappointed…

- Disappoint me? You don't disappoint me at all Nu. -He said, taking him by the chin. -Today was one of the best days I've ever had. -Nunew smiled in response.

-Mine too… -The omega answered, despite what had happened, he had been happy.

-Nu… Next week the holiday period starts…

It was true, halfway through the school term they had a couple of weeks of vacation, and it was about to begin.

-I was wondering if you wanted to go visit somewhere special or something, I can make time… -Zee was nervous, as if it was the first time he had invited him to something.

-Mmm… I would like to, but I am also going to Hearts to visit my family, so I have to organize my time.

-Oh, I understand. -Zee had forgotten that detail, it was normal for Nunew to have the need to go home, so he felt a little embarrassed. -Then, we'll think about it later.

Nunew nodded, he was happy with the idea of going out with him, but at that moment he had a persistent stomach ache, and not exactly because of the fried foods they had eaten.

-Then I'll be heading down, Mark should be waiting for me already. -Zee approached him… They weren't sure how they should say goodbye yet, so he just approached him and gave him a kiss on the forehead before opening the door and disappearing down the hall.

-

-

Nunew's melancholy persisted longer than expected. That same night he just wanted to sleep, but not before asking Yim -subtly- about the rumors about him and Zee, adding a question about the "real balance", and what Yim answered made him think more.

-Just as the King protects our kingdom, the Queen makes us prosperous, Nunew. Legend has it that the Queen makes our flowers grow, our rivers run, and our mountains snow-covered. But she also makes Spades heart warm, or we would freeze to death.

Nunew listened to him very attentively.

-But since the King has fallen ill, Queen Phimpira remains at the foot of his bed beside him, and her concern has brought rain at a time when there should only be sunshine, and it is a little colder than usual. That is why, Nu, our people fear not having a new Queen to fill the kingdom with life.

“Fill the kingdom with life” … That sounded like a great power, which perhaps he did not have.

Nunew thought about those words a lot, he thought about them a lot the days after his date, and he continued to think about them while he was having his lunch in the cafeteria, alone. The food was still on his plate, he really wasn't very hungry, he had had little appetite for those days.

In the solitude of the cafeteria, he heard footsteps, it was the time when most students had classes. He had a free period, so he decided to stay there for a while. When he turned towards the entrance, he saw that they were two people: his classmates from the cooking club, and they seemed to be coming straight towards him.

-Hello Nunew. -The boy, Ping, greeted, and so did Noey, who looked a little nervous.

-Hey guys, is something wrong? - He dared to ask them.

-Actually… yes. -The boy said and gave his friend a little push. -But she is the one who has to talk, she has something to tell you.

- Ping! - The girl complained, and turned to face Nunew. -Nunew, I… I wanted to apologize to you.

- What? Why? - Nunew truly didn't understand what was happening.

-Because… I was flirting with Prince Zee…

-In your face. -The boy emphasized, referring to Nunew..

-But I didn't know you and him were dating.

-Ah… That. -Nunew felt embarrassed by that apology; after all, the rumor had already spread. -It's okay Noey, I'm not upset, in fact… At that time he and I still didn't… have anything.

-But that explains why he rejected me. -The girl confessed, lowering her gaze.

-So… - Ping sat down in front of him quickly. - How is everything?

Nunew looked at him without knowing what to answer, he had no clear idea about how everything really was.

-… Well? I guess…

- Will they announce it soon? - he asked again.

-Mmm, I don't know...

-Nunew, you are going to marry Prince Zee, you are going to give life to our kingdom and also to the next heir! -Noey exclaimed effusively putting her hands on the table, scaring Nunew at the moment.

- Noey! - The beta scolded her and the girl covered her mouth.

-I'm sorry Nunew. -She said. -You're just living my dream.

-It's probably not something Nunew wants to be airing Noey. -The beta said and looked at Nunew.

-…That's right, I still don't know what will happen…. -He answered with a low voice.

Noey's words certainly described a dream, but in him being there were only doubts and a worry that was slowly turning into bitterness.

-Nunew… Is something wrong? -Ping had noticed the omega's low energy.

-It's nothing, I'm just a little distracted... you know, next week is vacation and I'll be able to see my family. -He tried to fake a smile.

-I'm sure they'll be very happy. - The omega girl remarked, sitting down as well. -Mine would be happy with that news.

- Actually, I think we all are. - The boy tried to cheer Nunew up with a compliment. - We think you'll be a very beloved Queen, Nunew, we support you.

Nunew began to feel that if he stayed there, he would cry, so he decided to pack his things and leave.

-Guys, thank you very much for your words, I must go now. -He stood up, seeing the worried faces of his companions.

Without another word, he quickly left the place, not knowing whether to look for Yim or go home with the excuse of an upset stomach. In the end, he opted for the latter, and later his friend would not overlook the fact that Nunew had signs of having cried.

-

-

On the last day of the week -which also marked the beginning of the holidays- he had his class with Zee, and although his spirits had not yet risen, he wanted to appear as calm as possible. Deep down he wanted to clear up his doubts, but he didn't want to feel like he was going too fast.

Zee waved a hand in front of his face to try to get him out of his thoughts, he didn't know what moment he had been talking about and he hadn't realized.

-I'm sorry. -He replied, startled, coming out of his reverie. -I got distracted.

-I know… Nu, is something wrong? - The alpha had given the point, he wanted to talk, but at the same time he didn't want to.

-… No, I was just thinking about my trip to Hearts, I have to take something to my parents. - He quickly came up with an excellent excuse.

-I see. -The alpha replied, lowering his voice. -Have you thought about when you will travel?

-Not yet, I'm thinking about it... - Maybe there was some lie in that answer?

-I understand, let me know so I can go with you to the airport. Also, at some point in the future I will meet your family.

That caught Nunew's attention a lot, it could mean something, right?

The professor entered, interrupting the conversation, Nunew would ask him about that later. No alpha he had ever met before showed interest in anything serious, and that included meeting the family.

-

At the end of class, they walked out together. Zee was checking his phone, so Nunew waited patiently for him to put it away so he could ask him. However, before that could happen, Zee said something to him.

-Sorry, it seems we have visitors in the palace.

- Visits? Other kings?

-Not exactly, the Dukes of Clubs arrived, so I have a last-minute meeting with them.

-Oh… Then you should go. -Nunew looked down, he had never felt so oblivious to what was happening before.

-Yes, I hope it won't take too long. -Zee noticed the sad look on the omega's face. -Nu. -He took him by the hands. -Is it okay if I come see you after that?

- Aren't you… overloading your schedule with unnecessary things? I'm fine. - He said, trying to hide his sadness.

- What do you call unnecessary? Don't say that about yourself Nu, I want to go see you, you are one of my priorities. -Zee let go of his hands to hug him.

Nunew decided not to cry anymore, thinking about the matter. He had too many things on his mind and it was better to leave it there.

-Okay. -He whispered as he separated. -You should go then, see you later. -He finished with a forced smile.

After that farewell, he decided to go find Yim to go home, he wanted to go to bed.

-

-

On the way to the dorms, Yim kept glancing at Nunew in the rearview mirror, but Nunew remained silent. He hadn't even accepted the fries that Leo, who was with them, offered him.

-Hey, Nu, so where was the prince going? -Yim spoke up, looking for a way to liven things up a bit. -You said he had to leave.

-To a meeting. -Nunew answered looking at Yim now. -The Dukes of Clubs arrived.

-Young master Peak's parents. -Leo said, covering his mouth with his hands in a dramatic gesture. -Get tough with the prince, Nunew.

Nunew was confused.

-No need, Leo, Nunew has Prince Zee eating out of the palm of his hand. -Yim said.

- Who are you talking about? - Nunew said confused.

- Young master Peak is the omega son of the Dukes of Clubs. -Yim answered.

-Before you came along, people liked to match them up. - Leo added.

-Leo. -Tutor, who was driving, called him in a scolding tone, while looking at him through the rearview mirror.

-I didn't say anything bad, I just told him the gossip, but we know that Prince Zee only likes Nunew. -Leo defended himself.

-That's right, people still don't know the real Queen. - Yim added.

Yim's words made Nunew even more uncomfortable. Everyone seemed to assume something that he didn't see as possible, even his best friend. And now the mention of the dukes' son had awakened in him an anxiety greater than what he had been dealing with the last few days.

When he arrived at the ranch, he had made his decision clear. He had already spoken to Yim before, but he hadn't told him that he had changed his plan; he had a flight scheduled for that night, and he had even already packed his suitcase. He wouldn't be gone for so many days, but he needed to be away, to think, and to be with his family.

As he walked through the door of the room and called out to Yim, his heart pounded with nerves.

-Muyim, could you take me to the airport tonight?

His friend's smile fell upon hearing that.

-

-

-

The meeting with the Dukes of Clubs dragged on, with business talks, personal conversations and an invitation to dinner, so Zee had to stay late keeping them company. When it was finally over and they were dismissed to head to their hotel, Zee quickly checked his phone, he wanted to call Nunew.

However, on the screen a notification of a message from the omega caught his attention:

“Zee, don't come today, I'm on my way home to Hearts. I'll see you when I get back.”

Didn't Nunew say that he didn't have a travel date yet?

Maybe something bad had happened, he tried to call him, but the device was offline. So, he left him several messages asking what was going on.

But he just wouldn't be at peace without knowing what had happened, so he decided to call Yim, but the call wouldn't go through either.

So, he quickly left the palace, but not before calling Mark to take him to the student residence.

-

-

When he arrived, he almost ran to the reception desk to ask for permission to go to the Omega wing, but they told him that there was no one in the room, and Yim was not there either. So, he went back out, and kept trying to call Yim.

-Your Majesty. - Mark shouted at him, he had also gotten out of the car seeing him desperate. -The residence will close soon, so he should be back soon, we can wait here for a while.

-Yes... I don't think I'll be able to sleep if we leave like this. - He answered and leaned against the car. Suddenly, the lights of another car illuminated them, and behind them they saw Yim get out of Tutor's car, who continued driving, sure to put the vehicle away.

Yim walked straight towards him, visibly worried.

- Yim! -Zee exclaimed, wishing the omega would give him answers.

-Your Majesty, he has already left. -He said in a low voice.

- Why? Did something happen? Did something happen to his family?

-No, nothing like that. -Yim tried to calm him down. -Nunew was strange these days… did you notice?

-… Yes, I asked him if something was wrong, but he didn't tell me anything specific. Tell me you do know.

-Not exactly, I don't know, but I think I have an idea. Nunew had been asking me a lot about the subject of the coronation of the King and the future Queen…

And Zee began to get an idea of where the problem lay.

-Your Majesty, did you ever discuss that topic with him?

Zee shook his head.

…

…

Before leaving the room, Yim gave him Nunew's address in Hearts; it hadn't been difficult to obtain it, Yim was very worried about Nunew, and he wanted things to be settled as quickly as possible.

Now Zee was on his way back to the palace, while making an emergency call:

-Max, what are you doing now?

…

-Leave that coffee aside, prepare your things and come to the palace, it's an emergency.

…

-Prepare to travel to another kingdom, I'm on my way to the palace to get ready, we'll leave discreetly.

…

-No, this time there is no need to go out and buy anything, I didn't do anything... That was the problem Max, I didn't do anything, so there are things I have to clarify with Nunew and I can't wait until he gets back.

…

-I don't know... Call Net and tell him we'll meet at Hearts, we could use some help.

…

-I prefer to do this without notice, I talk to Nunew and we go back, there is no time to waste.

…

-Since Mark is listening to us, he will also come with us or they could interrogate him.

Mark gulped at that.

…

-I know this isn't "princely," Max, but this is an emergency.

…

-Okay, don't be late.

…

…

Max was right, I owed him a lot.

-Your Majesty… Does that mean I should get ready quickly to travel too? - Mark asked fearfully.

-That's right, Mark, and don't worry, all this will be added to your salary, and it would add up to even more if you knew how to pilot... But, above all, I really appreciate you helping me with Nunew.

-Understood, Your Majesty, I am grateful that you have confidence in me… and now I want to learn to pilot.

Zee leaned back in his seat, it was already past nine at night, they had to pack up and leave for the Royal Plane around midnight without their parents suspecting anything.

Fae would probably tear his hair out the next day, but then let her beat him.

At the moment he only had in mind what he needed to tell Nunew.

-

-

-

Far away, Nunew was adjusting his travel pillow around his neck. The rest of the passengers were already asleep because they would be landing in the early hours of the morning. He glanced out the window before closing it and leaned back against the seat. For a few days he would not think of anything else but enjoying his family and friends.

-

Chapter Text

Nunew opened his eyes that morning, facing the ceiling he had seen throughout his life; he was in his room, in his house, in Hearts. The weather was warmer, the bed was more comfortable, he didn't have to rush to school.

He quickly got ready to go downstairs -almost tripping over his cat July as soon as he got out of bed- and when he got to the kitchen, he found his mother alone cooking, so he went straight over to hug her.

-Good morning, son, you don't know how happy it makes me to wake up and know that you're here. -The woman hugged him back tightly.

-Good morning, Mom, I missed you so much, that's why I brought forward my trip. -And that wasn't entirely a lie.

His father had gotten up early to pick him up at the airport, so it was still very early when he arrived, so he went to bed to sleep a little longer.

While his mother was washing the dishes, he began to help her put things away in the kitchen, thus starting a very pleasant conversation with her.

-So, Nu, you didn't tell me any more about Yim's suitor. -His mother brought up the subject, which made his stomach turn.

He hadn't even checked his messages yet.

-Oh… Well, I think they've made a lot of progress… But they still don't have a relationship.

-Tell him not to think about it too much or he'll lose his suitor. -She let out a slight laugh at the last mention, but Nunew remained static for a few moments.

-Good morning. -The voice of his older brother made them turn around.

-Good morning, son. -The woman answered.

The boy sat down in the dining room, but not before making his coffee in the coffee maker.

- What are you talking about? - He asked, making Nunew nervous.

-We're talking about Yim, Nunew's friend, he has a suitor. -she replied, taking a step forward towards Nunew.

-I see. -He said simply. -How have you been doing these past few months, Nunew?

Nunew put down the dishes he was tidying up and turned around, still unsure of what to answer... In his time in Spades, things stood out like: Meeting the prince of the kingdom and fighting with him, having classes with the prince of the kingdom, beating up the prince of the kingdom, meeting the parliament (where the prince of the kingdom holds meetings), meeting the palace (house of the prince of the kingdom), meeting the kings, falling in love with the prince of the kingdom, having a hot moment with the prince of the kingdom in the student dormitory.

Except for the last one, he could mention all of the above hoping his brother would laugh at his great imagination, but he preferred to only mention the adventures with his best friends as an answer.

-Don't tell me that boy, Tutor, is Yim's suitor. - His mother questioned.

-Ehh… Yes. -Every lie was welcome at that moment.

-It was to be expected: an alpha who does everything the omega wants. - His brother commented, already drinking his coffee.

-But they are just friends for now, we all are. -Nunew laughed nervously.

At that moment, his father entered the kitchen straight to the dishwasher, but without turning a deaf ear to the conversation.

- What's the conversation about? Is Nunew telling his adventures in Spades?

-That's right, he was telling us that he and Yim have an alpha friend who does everything Yim wants no matter the time or place. - Tee, his brother, explained.

-But we are all friends. - Nunew stressed again.

-When an alpha does that, it's usually because he's after something. -The older man said very confidently.

-Or a “little thing” - The alpha brother added, not expecting Nunew to slap him on the arm.

- Tee, stop talking like that! You're a dirty person. - Nunew scolded him while he rubbed his arm.

It may be that Tee had a younger omega brother, but he was an omega who stood up to him all the time.

- Am I wrong? - He asked, letting go of his arm.

- Are you speaking from experience? - Nunew judged.

-I have principles, but I have lived among alphas and I know what they are like, Nunew.

-Your brother is right Nunew, your mother almost chose an alpha bandit, but fortunately I came into her life. - His father said looking at the woman who finished putting away some dishes and sat down.

- You looked like a bandit too. -She said, startling her husband.

Nunew sighed: in reality, they had had that conversation about alphas on countless occasions, especially in his teenage years. And he grew up agreeing with his father and brother, however, now something had changed, that alpha prince had given him a new perception of everything, being a gentlemanly, loving, kind alpha, among many other virtues. He was certainly strange, and sometimes very impulsive, but not a bad person.

-Well… I'll leave you for now, I told my friends I'd see them today at the cafeteria. -Nunew said, interrupting the family conversation.

-Okay son, don't forget to invite them to eat with us tomorrow to celebrate your visit. -His father reminded him.

-Yes, Dad. -Nunew replied and left the kitchen to get ready to go out.

-

-

When he opened his closet to start getting ready, he could see all those clothes that didn't fit in his small suitcase, and so he had to leave them. Excited, he began to choose his outfit to go out, rummaging through each item and drawer after drawer. He also took out other accessories from his closet, which he left on his bed. Suddenly, he remembered something... He went to the last drawer of his nightstand, which he opened with a key, and there he found a small box that contained the "little friend" that accompanied him during his heat cycles.

He had decided to leave that toy there when he left for Spades, since he would have died of embarrassment if someone saw it by accident since it was in a shared room. Even when he bought it, he had to do it very discreetly. And, actually, it was quite normal for omegas to have that kind of toys because of how painful heat was without an alpha, but he didn't want everyone to know what his tastes were in that kind of things anyway.

Now he had an almost-boyfriend, but nothing was happening yet. However, what had happened on the day of their date had made it clear to him that he did want to take that step with Zee, but he still had many conflicts regarding his insecurities. He wanted the alpha, but he was afraid of meeting a look of disappointment from him when he saw him naked, and well, the toy didn't judge him, so he remained his only partner in bed.

He put the box back in the drawer and locked it again. In the evening he would meet him after a long time. He was looking forward to it, but in the meantime, he had to finish getting ready.

-This week is about peace and not worries, July. - He said to his cat, who was lying on a chair, looking at him.

-

He met his friends at a small coffee shop near his university, in a quiet area. He caught himself looking more closely at the decor of the place, realizing how far it was from Spades; Hearts gave a warmer, more homely atmosphere, while Spades had a fresh and innovative touch.

It wasn't long before his friends arrived, eager to see him again, and when they met again the first thing they did was to question him about the photographs of the Prince of Spades that Nu had shown them, promising that he would tell them everything later.

- But they're dating? - asked Ally, the friend to whom he had originally sent everything.

-Yes, but we are not a couple. -Nunew answered a little subdued.

-But if he's serious about you, don't tell us he's a jerk. -Said Aheye, another friend.

-He's not a jerk, -he replied curtly. -But I don't know, this is all very complicated.

-Nunew, have you talked seriously about everything? -Asked Tai, his third friend, also an omega male.

Nunew was silent, and that silence was the answer.

-You have to talk to him now, listen to me, don't take your claws off that man! - Ally exclaimed in a fit of effusiveness, standing up.

- Ally! Don't get so worked up. - Her friend scolded her, forcing her to sit down.

-I'm sorry, but Nu can't let that man get away. -Ally whispered. -He's handsome, rich, and most of all, he's literally a prince.

-We still don't know how serious that man is about him, Ally. - Tai said. - Nu, does your family know anything?

-If they knew, I think my brother would have taken the first plane to bring me back a long time ago.

His friends' faces were worried at the answer.

- And they don't suspect anything? - Aheye asked. - Rumors have been spreading little by little, I already saw something on HeartTok, they say that the Prince of Spades boyfriend is an omega of Hearts.

-Well…- Nunew put his drink aside, thinking seriously about it. -My family is not interested in royal gossip, but I fear that someone might tell them.

-I think you should, Nu. -Tai told him. -Or at least clear things up with your boy quickly.

Nunew kept thinking… Everything was so complicated, he couldn't go and tell his family when he wasn't even sure how serious the relationship was. And he didn't want to ask Zee at that moment, he had traveled precisely to rest and not overthink.

- Hey! Chawarin! I wasn't told you were around here. - An alpha exclaimed from the door, he was carrying some coffees and seemed about to leave the place.

-Oh… Kao, hello. -Nunew greeted with a touch of disinterest.

-If I knew you were coming, I would ask you out, okay? So we could catch up. - He said as he opened the door.

-Yes, I just arrived recently… but thanks. -Nunew tried to follow the conversation.

-When you're free, talk to me, we need to talk before you leave. -The alpha gave him a wave before leaving the place for good.

-You must speak to your prince soon, and if he rejects you, there is Kao waiting for you. - Tai crossed his arms while pointing that out mockingly.

-No, I want him to stay with the prince. - Ally complained, arms crossed.

-Umm… Kao doesn't give me a good feeling, he never lasts with his partners, and I just don't like him. -Nunew returned his attention to his drink.

He knew the alphas of his generation, but they just weren't worth it to him. They were like spoiled children, totally contrary to the grown man he had met in Zee... Yes, there had been several moments where Zee had teased him and acted childishly, but even in those actions, he had been someone totally mature when facing the consequences and treating him with delicacy.

It wasn't that he didn't have any alphas to choose from, it was just that the ones he was close to were guys who wouldn't exactly ask him out on a date, but rather would ask him out for something more, as his brother had mentioned that morning. He hadn't been lucky enough to meet an alpha who fell outside that range, until he found Zee.

-

-

-

At night, after taking a bath -with his little friend from the drawer-, he went to bed. The next day he had the welcome lunch organized by his parents, so he would help them in the morning. Therefore, he decided to continue without checking his social networks, there would probably be overwhelming things there that would not let him sleep.

He stared at the ceiling for several minutes; he couldn't sleep. It was the first time in several weeks that he was in his comfortable bed and couldn't sleep. The difference was that months ago he didn't have a worry related to his love life, because before he didn't even have a love life.

In the midst of this, he heard noises like leaves rustling in trees, and immediately thought it must be the wind. In Spades they were several floors up, so it had been a while since he had heard anything like that.

After a few seconds he heard it again, it sounded different now. Could it be July? But everything was closed.

Out of curiosity, he took his phone to shine it towards his window, but when he turned on the screen there was a message from Zee: “Nu, open the window”

He jumped up and, without thinking twice, ran to his window to see if it was what he was thinking. He pulled the curtains open and when he opened them, Zee -who was standing on the small balcony- came in almost falling.

Nunew couldn't quite make him out in the dark. The alpha was dressed entirely in black and wore a cap, glasses and face mask of the same color, but he was sure it was him; his scent was unmistakable.

-God, I'm glad I never missed military training. - The major said with a hand on his chest.

Nunew shone the lamp on him; if the neighbours had seen it, there would have been a huge scandal.

-Zee… -Nunew didn't know what to say, he even thought that maybe he had fallen asleep and was dreaming.

-Nu, sorry about this, but I needed to see you. -The alpha approached to take his hands, sounding worried. -I need us to talk.

-Zee, that could have been dangerous. How could you come here like that at this hour? You could have fallen or someone could have seen you.

-That's the least important thing now Nu, besides Max and Net helped me, don't worry about that.

-Okay… So, what do you want to talk about? -Nunew was more afraid than dismayed by this visit, what did he want to tell him?

-Nu, I really want to be with you. -It was typical of the alpha to skip what he really wanted to say, it was part of his impulsive side, so, taking off his glasses to look him in the eyes with the little light coming through the window, he continued. -I know that maybe the crown thing has been worrying you, and it's my fault for not talking to you about it before. So, I want you to know, that I just want you to be you.

Nunew gaped at him, did he mean…?

-I would like you to be my boyfriend, but I am so serious about this that I would like you to be my husband in the not-too-distant future, and also my Queen. -Zee held him firmly at his declaration, noticing how Nunew had started to tremble. -Nu, are you as serious about our relationship as I am?

Nunew nodded before letting his first tears escape.

-Zee, I... you said no... - He didn't know how to give order to his answer, and Zee hugged him tightly when he saw him so distressed.

-Nu, Spades wants a Queen, that's why they've put so much pressure on me regarding that. I didn't want you to believe that I was only looking for you to please the kingdom and my family. -He explained while leaning on his shoulder during the hug.

Nunew managed to calm down enough, and moving away a little, he spoke his words.

-I didn't want you to think that I only wanted to be with you because of that.

Zee looked at him seriously.

-It seems that we both made up our own ideas… Believe me, I wouldn't think something like that about you, Nunu.

- You don't think I want answers too quickly either? - That was his other concern.

-No. -He assured. -Nu, that is another matter, you know that my father is sick. - Entering into this subject, Zee sounded more distressed. -We do not know how much time he has left, and when he leaves, I must take the throne. Would you really want to be with me when that happens? Even if it happens soon?

At that time, Nunew was clear about his feelings, and although he was thought to be hasty, his decisions were firm.

-Zee, I want to be with you too. You always have a lot of work, you have taken on a lot of responsibilities and I know that sometimes you are exhausted, so I want to be there for you, we can do all that together.

- Is that a yes to everything I told you before?

- To be your boyfriend, your future husband, and your future Queen? Yes, and I also want future babies and future kittens.

- Nu! -Zee was stunned, but happy.

- Am I asking for too much?

-No, if it's with you, I want all that too. - Zee answered and, with tacit permission from the omega's gaze alone, he kissed him.

That kiss in the middle of the darkness was so sweet and so real that Nunew could confirm that he was not in the middle of a dream. As they slowly separated, Nu let out a giggle. He had climbed onto Zee's boots, in all the chaos, he had forgotten that he was barefoot, in his pajamas -which were actually an oversized t-shirt and very short shorts-, and Zee had slipped into his room as if he were a thief.

-Zee… Does your family know you're here? -He asked suddenly, realizing everything.

-More or less.

- What do you mean, more or less?

PLOP!

The door had flung open, revealing the alpha brother with a broom in his hand and causing both of their hearts to nearly stop.

Damn.

- I knew I hadn't heard wrong! - He exclaimed, quickly approaching them.

Zee saw the blow approaching and with it, his eventful life flash before his eyes... Besides, what did that family have to do with brooms?!

The blow did not come, Nunew had stood in front of him to wrestle with his brother, trying to take the broom from him.

- Tee, don't touch him!

- What the hell is wrong with you Nunew?

- Leave it!

- I'm not going to allow some lousy alpha to come into the house and desecrate my little brother!

- Tee, don't touch it or you could get into big trouble!!

Zee didn't sit idly by and stepped forward to try and stop the boy. He preferred to take the risk rather than have Nunew accidentally get hurt by facing an alpha.

- That's not why I came here! - Zee managed to grab the broom, standing face to face, strength against strength. Nunew, for safety, turned around and hugged Zee, wanting to act as a shield in case his brother tried anything else.

- You're not getting out of here alive, you idiot!

- No! He's my boyfriend! - After Nunew screamed, the light turned on. At the door were his parents.

-What's the commotion here!? - Mr. Perdpiryawong was furious, and his face quickly turned to horror when he found an unknown man in his youngest son's room.

The broom fell to the floor, causing a loud bang.

- Dad! – Nunew turned around again, holding his hands in front of him as a signal for them not to come closer. – Don't touch him, look at this. – Quickly, Nunew took off his cap and Zee took off his mask, waiting for them to recognize him, despite not being from their kingdom.

From his horrified reaction, his older brother seemed to recognize him first.

-This is Prince Zee of Spades. -Nunew introduced him, and Zee didn't know what to do with his family's expressions.

His mother, behind the older man, covered her mouth in extreme surprise, and the man, in turn, was speechless.

-The damn rumors were true, and I wanted to believe that it wasn't about you. - His brother said next to them.

Apparently, the rumors had reached his home.

-

-

After the scandal, which fortunately did not alert the neighbors, the conversation moved to the living room, where both sat opposite Nunew's father, and next to him, the older brother.

-So, you're telling me that you're dating and I didn't know anything about it at all. - The man looked at them harshly, fixing his gaze on the alpha prince. - Should I ask you what you want with my son? We're not a noble family.

-Sir, I am serious enough to dare to leave my country and come here just to look for Nunew. -Zee had also taken a firm stance, confident of facing the man.

- And you? - He asked again, now looking at his son. - Nunew, what do you have to explain about all this? When you left, we agreed that you were going to study, not to be looking for romances.

-I didn't go looking for romances, dad, he and I met at university and it just… happened. -Nunew didn't think to give details at that moment, he felt quite nervous. He had never seen his father so angry.

-Very well. -Her father straightened in his place, and with a voice still very angry he turned back to Zee. -I am aware of your father's situation and what it means for your kingdom, and I am also aware that you had declared that you would take power alone, without a Queen at your side.

Zee was shocked at first, his father's situation seemed to be an issue beyond his own land.

-Yes, I had said that, but I said it before I met Nunew. -He explained. -Now my idea has changed.

-Nunew still has one more term of school left, and he must return as soon as his exchange period ends. -What do you plan to do if you find yourself having to take over before he finishes his studies?

That question was like a shot to the two of them, they had barely talked about wanting to be together, they still hadn't planned anything.

- Are you getting married? - Mr. Perdpiriyawong could ask even more difficult questions, even his son and wife looked at him uncomfortably.

-Dad… Zee and I are still thinking about it. -Nunew wanted to get ahead, seeing his partner in silence.

-My father has shown some improvement so we have time for that. Nunew will return to Hearts without any problem. If he needs to go to Spades, he will have the Royal Plane and the royal protection service at his disposal. And about getting married… Nu knows that for my part, it is something I would wish for, but it is also something that only the two of us know. -Zee tried with difficulty to explain each thing, hoping that nothing that came out of his mouth could be misinterpreted.

Nunew was touched more than anything by the last statement; they didn't have the situation on their side, but Zee still wanted to give him a relationship away from the hands of third parties.

-I wish that too, Dad, but it's our business... But if things get complicated, I'll be there with him. - Nunew hooked onto Zee's arm without taking his eyes off his father. It was his way of saying that he wasn't going to separate him.

In the end, regardless of their classes and social positions, they were just two young people in love.

Mr. Perdpiriyawong coughed a little before giving his next words. As a father, it was a difficult situation in every sense to see how his youngest son, whom he carried in his arms, was so determined to join his life with someone else.

-I see, then I have no reason to interfere if that's what my son wants.

The statement startled his eldest son, who expected his father to put more obstacles in their way.

-But just because I accept it doesn't mean I approve of the way you entered my house and went into my son's room. -Zee lowered his head upon hearing that. -Where did you come in? I hope no one in the neighborhood saw you.

- Oh, it was… through his window. We made sure there was no one around…

- …We?

-Yes, there are two friends outside, they helped me with everything. -At that moment, being honest was his best option, he didn't want to make things worse.

-Zee, are they still there? It's dangerous. - Nunew squeezed his arm when he heard that.

-Tell your friends to come in, Nunew is right, it's not safe for them to be out there.

-Well… -Zee took out his phone, and quickly texted them, with some fear, since he didn't know if his now father-in-law was going to scold them in the same way. -They'll be coming in a few minutes. -He stated, after sending the message.

-Okay, now I want you to put me in touch with your parents.

-What?! - Nunew, Zee, and even Tee exclaimed in unison.

-I know you're an independent boy, I know you're even older than Nunew and I know you've been raised to be a King, but sneaking into my omega son's room at night without permission is something I would expect from a hormonal teenager, so I want to speak to your parents about your actions.

Nunew watched as Zee's color drained, and with his trembling hands he looked back at his cell phone screen anyway.

-Okay, but sir… -Zee looked at him, about to make a request. -My father is in no condition to listen to something like that, so I hope you don't mind my mother talking to you.

-I understand, I'm fine with that.

With that, Zee searched through his contacts to set up the call. Meanwhile, Nunew's mother was pulling her husband by the arm as if she wanted to avoid whatever he was doing.

- Okay? Mom, it's me, is my father around? Okay, I'm fine, like I told you in the message, I'll explain later, but for now something happened... No mom, I didn't do anything like that, but... No, I'm with him... Mom, his dad wants to talk to you... Then I'll pass him on to you, I'll explain later, I promise...

When he finished, he passed the phone to the man in front of him, who stood up to take it and then walked away from the room, followed by his oldest son.

-Good evening, Your Majesty. Sorry for the inconvenience…

Mrs. Perdpiriyawong, seeing her husband walk away, quickly got up to sit beside them.

-Your Majesty, please excuse my husband…

-Don't worry. -Zee turned slightly towards her. -I know he's just looking out for his family.

-He's going to want it, just give him some time, we're still processing it.

-I hope Tee does too. -Nunew whispered, watching his brother near his father.

At that moment the doorbell rang and she ran to open it, and both Zee and Nunew stood up as well.

When she opened the door, Net was there carrying a bag of food and Max was at his side.

-Hello, hello, we're looking for a man who escaped from the rehab center. - Net said, and Zee gave him the middle finger in the background - anyway, that night he had already gone beyond the princely limits enough.

-Mom, it's them, let them pass. -Nunew said upon hearing it.

She listened to her son, letting the two boys pass -also dressed in black, giving a suspicious appearance-. Both of them greeted those present with respect as they passed.

- Madam, we pay our respects by bringing you food. - Net handed the bag of food to the woman.

-It took us a while because Net sent Mark and Jimmy for food. - Max whispered to Zee.

-You have no idea what I've just been through. -Zee also answered in a low voice.

-I see you got caught. -Max laughed a little.

-Mom, this is Max and His Majesty, Prince Net, friends of Zee. -Nunew said, pointing at each one respectively.

-You can just call me Net, Nunew, after all we are friends now. -The boy corrected him.

His mother looked at them both curiously, especially Net…

-…P-prince?

-Oh, excuse me for not introducing myself first, I am Net Siraphop Mannitikhun, Prince of Diamonds. - He introduced himself by lowering the cap of his coat and placing his other hand on his chest.

Needless to say, she almost dropped her bag of food when she heard that.

- Another one?! - Tee had heard it too, and was now close to them.

- Tee, show more respect to his majesty! - His mother scolded him.

The scream caught her husband's attention, who, still in the middle of the call, turned to look at them, getting yet another surprise.

The two boys finally went into the living room, where the lady brought them some cookies and bread she had stored away, along with some hot chocolate for everyone, and a relaxing tea for her husband.

-I'm sorry if this isn't something at your level, I never imagined that...

-Everything is delicious, ma'am, don't worry. - Net interrupted her, taking several cookies.

-We are grateful. -Zee added.

-Especially since he hasn't been shot or anything. - Max said, mocking him.

-I really wanted to. - Tee whispered from another chair.

-Zee needs to return home whole, something worse still awaits him there. -Net spoke, causing Zee's eye to almost twitch at his audacity.

- Do you have to leave now? - Nunew asked. - It's very late.

-Not exactly now, but we'll be leaving for Spades tomorrow. -Zee told him.

-Dad, can't they spend the night here? - Nunew turned to his father, who was silently drinking from his cup.

- Honey, Nu is right, it's too late already. - His mother helped him.

The three alphas looked at each other, curious about the head of the family's response.

-Nu, don't worry, Mark and Jimmy are waiting for us... -Zee approached Nunew, wanting to avoid further problems.

-It’s okay. -Mr. Perdpiriyawong replied. -It would be more troublesome for us to kick them out at this hour. But yes, the three of them sleep together in the guest room. -he said firmly and then pointed at Nunew. -Don’t think he’s going to sleep with you.”

- Dad! - He exclaimed, embarrassed.

- Thank you very much Mr. Perdpiriyawong, don't worry, we won't cause you any more problems. - Zee thanked.

- Should they tell Mr. Mark and…? - Nunew began to ask.

-Jimmy, Net's driver. -Zee finished, leaving his cup on the table. -Don't worry, they'll be fine, they'll go home.

As he finished speaking, Net began to laugh.

-In any case, I would be worried about the person who tried to assault them. -He said. Nunew turned to look at him with a puzzled expression. -Mark and Jimmy are not just Nunew's drivers, they are armed and prepared to protect their masters.

Nunew was mildly surprised by this, because Mark seemed like an ordinary man, but it made sense that he would be that way.

-Mark has been instructed to pass as an ordinary citizen. -Zee told him.

-Wow. - Nunew said in surprise. Then he noticed another detail, which he asked Zee. - Aren't they in a hotel? You said they are going home.

-Net has a house here. -He answered. -We decided to go there so that the people at the hotel wouldn't start speculating.

-I come to Hearts a lot, I preferred to buy a house. -Net said before taking a drink from his cup.

-Oh... So, you'd be leaving tomorrow at any time? -Nunew asked, smiling as he realized that they wouldn't have a fixed time to leave a hotel, so he turned to his father. - Dad, can they stay for lunch tomorrow?

- NuNew! -his brother exclaimed in annoyance.

His father sighed and nodded.

-Okay, son, you can stay. You and I will talk about your consequences later. -He clarified.

Nunew smiled happily, the consequences were the least of his concerns.

-Then I'll go and prepare the room. -Said his mother happily, getting up to go immediately to do so.

-I'll tell Mark to leave and come back in the morning then. -Max said to Zee, who nodded.

-Zee, let's go help with the room. -Nunew told him, standing up, noticeably more encouraged.

Zee decided to follow him, it was better than staying in front of the alphas who had him in their sights.

As they climbed the stairs and almost reached the hallway, Nunew stopped and turned to hug him; as he was one step below, Zee reciprocated by hugging him around the waist and resting his head on his chest.

-I'm sorry about all this. -Nunew said in a very low voice.

-I came willing to face anything for you, Nu.

Nu separated himself from him a little and took his face in his hands, then began leaving kisses all over his face.

- Are you very brave or very impulsive? - He asked him, letting out a slight giggle.

-Shameless, according to my father. -He replied. -Now continue. -This answer caused more laughter in Nunew, who nevertheless accepted his request and continued to kiss him, at least until they heard a rustle and separated before they were seen.

-

After all the fuss, the three of them settled into the room they were lent; it wasn't a very big room, but it was spacious enough for two beds with a nightstand in between -which they moved aside to put the two beds together, at Net's request, who felt like he was at a sleepover-.

The beds were spacious too; Net and Max were currently occupying one, busy looking at something on Net’s phone. Zee, on the other hand, was in front of the mirror of a small vanity there, drying his hair after having taken a quick shower in the small bathroom in the room, he was dressed in a white t-shirt and dark red plaid flannel pants, similar to the ones Net and Max were wearing. A little while earlier, Mrs. Perdpiriyawong and her eldest son had come in to leave them some clothes, which Tee was lending them. Apparently, he was beginning to resign himself.

When he finished, he went to lie down on the bed, exhausted, turning off the light beforehand.

-Hey, do you know how things will go when you get back? - Net asked, shining his phone at them.

-You say that like we're ten years old. -Zee managed to say, burying his head in the pillows.

-That depends. -Max said in turn.

- It depends on what? - Net asked.

-Zee left the kingdom without warning, and then Lord Perdpiriyawong accused him to his mother of sneaking into his son's room, but… - Max sounded amused as he recounted his misfortune. - He will also bring a new Queen home.

-Hey, that's true. -Net turned around and started poking Zee. -So, will Nunew be your queen? Did he accept?

-If he didn't want it, we wouldn't be here now. -Zee replied in a tired voice as he leaned back. -I'm just afraid that there are many things ahead of us, and some of them could be very hard for him.

As he spoke, the doorknob turned and they turned around when they heard the creak of the door, slowly opening. From there, the figure of the omega emerged from the darkness.

-Nunew. -Zee said, refraining from shouting so as not to cause another scandal.

-Shh. -Nunew silenced him. He entered the room and closed it with his own body, because he was carrying blankets in his hands. -I brought them more pillows and blankets.

-Guys, a lewd omega came into the room. -Net mocked.

-Hey, do they know you're here? I don't want your brother to castrate all three of us. - Max said.

-Shhh, if you don't keep quiet, he'll notice. - Nunew scolded him and put the blankets on the beds. -These are more comfortable, take them. - He also took one, and then, he climbed into bed next to Zee.

-Nunew, what are you doing? Someone might come.

-It's okay if I stay a little while and then come back to my room later. - He pouted and grabbed his arm. - You don't want to?

-Of course I want to. -He replied. -I just don't want there to be any more problems.

- Problems because they find your little omega son sleeping next to three alphas? I don't think so. - Max said sarcastically.

-Shhhhh. - Nunew silenced him, and turned to Zee. -There won't be any, I'll be here for a while and then I'll leave. My dad drank his relaxing tea, so he fell asleep like a log, and Tee is a deep sleeper.

-Okay. -Zee said, stroking his hair. -Then let's go to sleep.

They both settled in together, and as they stood face to face, Zee couldn't help but ask him something else.

- Doesn't your father hate us enough for us to stay tomorrow? - Zee asked, lowering his voice as much as possible.

-Just give him time, he doesn't hate them. -The omega clung to him in a hug.

-Okay, I'll wait for him to get over his anger. -Zee said, and received a kiss in response, which the other alphas could hear.

-I don't know if it was better when they were fighting. -They heard Max say from the other side of the beds. -Don't do anything weird with us here.

Max, who was on the edge of the bed shared with Net, had already covered himself completely in an attempt to ignore them. Zee turned his back to Net, turning to Nunew who had remained on the other edge, separating him from his friends.

-I don't think Zee wants to lose his chili. -Net said, his comment causing Zee to turn around and hit him with a pillow and Max to unsuccessfully stifle his laughter into his pillow.

Nunew covered his mouth, trying to hide the fact that he, too, had found his comment funny.

- Nu! - Zee exclaimed, stopping himself from speaking out loud.

-I'm sorry. -Nunew curled up, but Zee could still tell from the shaking of his body that the omega was still laughing into his pillows.

-He's laughing now, but if that were to happen, he'd lose all the fun. - Net said again, and now it was Nunew who threw a pillow at him.

It seemed like sleeping that night was going to be very difficult; Max's laughter was also joined by Zee's, of course, avoiding being loud or Net's words could come true.

-

-

Soon, morning came for the three alphas in the room. Zee stirred in bed as he woke up and felt a leg wrap around his body, however, the entity he felt was not Nunew's slim little body. When he opened his eyes wide and looked at who it was, he let out a cry and pushed him out of the bed.

The sound of the body rolling on the floor and Zee's scream made Max sit up in fright, and he found Zee sitting staring at the floor.

- What are you doing?! - Max asked, frightened.

- Spades just declared war on Diamonds! - Net exclaimed from the ground.

-I woke up and he was on top of me. -Zee defended himself.

-You say that as if I were a degenerate. - Net complained. -But the one who broke into an omega's room was someone else.

- Net! - Zee exclaimed again. - And who put me up to it?!

-I just told you that you should go in through the window, but you were the one who initially said that you were going to talk to him no matter what.

Max just held his forehead; those were no ways to wake up in peace.

The next thing was that the door opened, revealing Nunew already dressed in everyday clothes.

- What's going on? - The omega asked upon seeing the scene.

-Your boyfriend kicked me. -Net rushed over.

-He scared me first. -Zee said.

-We'll get ready quickly, Mark and Jimmy will pick us up soon. -Max said, changing the subject.

-Okay… Zee, don't hit Net… I'll see you downstairs. - Nunew finished before closing the door again.

Net burst out laughing at the sight of his friend being scolded.

It didn't take long for the door to open again, and now Nunew -who was carrying more piles of clothes- was startled to find Net about to take off his shirt, and Zee... only in his pajama pants sitting on the bed, which almost made him drop everything.

- Nunew! - Zee exclaimed, covering himself with a pillow.

Nunew covered his eyes with one hand… looking through his fingers.

-I brought more clothes. - He said nervously, and Net, who had already taken off his shirt, approached to take the clothes.

-Thanks, Nunew, my clothes from yesterday have the smell of street food. - As he took the clothes, he couldn't help but notice how Nunew subtly looked towards where Zee was, and smiled mischievously. -So... You two still... - But he didn't notice when Zee appeared behind him and covered him with a sheet.

-Stop approaching Nunew if you don't have any clothes on. -Zee told him, pushing him away from Nunew. -Nu, we'll go down as fast as possible.

-Okay… -The omega replied without stopping to look at the strong and marked back of the alpha, which made him clumsily leave the room.

- What are you doing now? - Max asked them as he came out of the bathroom.

-I'm just avoiding more trouble. -Zee removed the sheet from Net.

-Zee, we need to talk about what I just noticed. -Net said.

-We have nothing to talk about. -Zee took the clothes and went into the bathroom.

-

After much misfortune, they finally went down to say goodbye to the family; in the process they had to decline Mrs. Perdpiriyawong's invitation to stay for breakfast - Zee definitely did not want to further strain the situation. And with a promise to return for lunch, they finally left the house.

-

-

And just as promised, they returned in the afternoon. They were greeted at the door by Nunew, who immediately came out to hug Zee.

-Nu, I feel a little sorry to come after everything that happened. -Zee commented, walking into the house with Nunew on his arm, apparently his family had placed a table in the back garden, which was where everyone was.

-I told you everything will be okay; my family will love you very much. -Nunew tried to cheer him up.

-Someday they'll forget what happened, don't worry about it. -Max encouraged him by putting a hand on his shoulder. -Or they'll remember it as a funny anecdote.

Walking out into the garden, Zee saw Nunew's friends sitting at the table and Nunew's mother was placing some glasses and plates on the table. He knew immediately that they were his friends by their expressions of disbelief at seeing him, and not just him, but his two friends as well. Ally's scream was not long in coming.

-Mrs. Perdpiriyawong, my housekeepers will come by to deliver your laundry washed and ironed as soon as it is ready. - Net said.

-Mrs. Perdpiriyawong, do you have some alcohol and cotton? - Nunew's omega friend interrupted when he saw his friend turning pale with surprise, and his other friend blowing on her with her hands.

-It's okay son, don't worry. -The woman answered the alpha of Diamonds, and then she looked at her son's friends. -We have a first aid kit in the kitchen boys, let me go get it.

That would be a very unusual welcome party.

-

The event went by calmly, Nunew's friends were nervous enough to establish a coherent conversation with the alphas. In addition, Tee's presence made the three boys slightly silent. Therefore, the conversation was pleasant and with few words.

However, Zee received a message that made him stray a bit away from the group, and Nunew followed him to make sure he was okay.

- Did something happen? - The omega asked worriedly.

-It's my mother. -Zee said, and at that moment his phone started ringing.

Nerves on edge, Zee answered the call. He hadn't spoken seriously to her until that moment, he had only told her that as soon as the Nunew party was over, he would return immediately to the palace.

-… Mom, is something wrong? - His nervousness increased. - Nunew moved closer to him with the intention of listening.

[-Of course something's up you damn horny brat.]

-D-dad… -Zee felt his heart pound and his temperature drop. He looked at Nunew in terror, he had also heard that and was looking at him the same way. Since hanging up was not an option, he continued listening.

[- Are you going to explain to me how my son, my heir, was able to sneak into a family home without permission? And, above all, how was he able to sneak right into the room of the omega son of that family? What the hell were you thinking, Zee? Did I raise you that way?]

Zee felt his legs weaken. His father had never sounded so angry at him, nor was he a man who used such language. At the same time, he could sense how Nunew's naturally sweet scent had turned bitter.

-Dad, I… -I didn't know what to say, he was telling me the real facts. -I didn't know what to do…

[- And your solution was to risk your life and your family's name?]

He didn't answer that, and the tension was tightening his neck.

[- Is Nunew with you?]

Hearing that, the omega turned to look at him.

-Yes, he's here. We're at his house.

[-Please give him the phone, I need to talk to him]

Without answering, he passed the phone to the omega, who took it with a slight tremor in his hand.

- Y-yes?

[-Nunew, I appreciate that you prevented my stupid son from being castrated overnight, but are you aware of the magnitude of your decisions?]

-Y-yes, I am, your majesty.

[-You must know that becoming my son's partner means that you will soon become part of the royal family, and that is not only about being adored as the Queen that our kingdom awaits, when the time comes you will also have your responsibilities to your people.]

-Yes sir, I understand.

[-Yesterday I managed to overhear a bit of your father's conversation with my wife, and I have to say that even I felt the shame she felt when she heard about what happened, so today gifts will arrive at your home in the name of our family to apologize for my son's actions. Afterwards, I will personally contact your father to apologize.]

-Thank you very much, your majesty, I will inform my father.

[-Lastly, I don't want you to think that I'm angry with you, it makes me very happy to know that my son has found someone to love and that our family is growing. I'm just pointing out the irresponsible way in which everything happened, so as soon as you get back, I'd like to talk to both of you about the future that awaits you.]

-Yes sir, and I understand.

[-Okay, now give the phone back to my son.]

Nunew obeyed; however, he sat down on a chair near them, while Zee said goodbye to his father.

-He says that when you come back, we'll have dinner together. -The alpha said as he put his phone away. -He's actually very happy with the idea of you becoming part of the family, he's just mad at me.

-I noticed. -Nunew replied somewhat subdued. -Zee… I'm sorry for running away like that.

-Nu, that doesn't justify my own actions, you have nothing to apologize for.

-I want to do it anyway.

-You know, Max and Net see this as a future legend for the kingdom. -Zee wasn't in a very good mood, but he still tried to make his omega smile, which he succeeded in doing.

-You probably have a lot of them, right?

-Yes, but none of this level… now come. -Zee pulled him towards him to comfort him with his scent in a hug, and took the opportunity to leave a kiss on the omega's cheek. -Many things await us, Nu.

-But you'll be there to teach me about what I don't understand, right? - Nunew clung tighter to him.

-Always, Nu, and you will do well.

This situation was captured by the cameras of their friends, who made fun of them in the background... and they separated as soon as they saw their father come out into the yard.

-

Before nightfall, the car with Mark and Jimmy passed by Nunew's house, thus having to say goodbye for a few more days, since the omega wanted to spend the rest of the week with his family. That would also help him to calm his father down regarding the issue of his relationship with the prince.

-Good afternoon, your majesty, are you ready to go back? - Mark asked Zee when he came down and met him, and from the other door came another boy, quite tall, which surprised Nunew.

-Good afternoon, Your Majesty. -The other boy said respectfully. -And… Good afternoon, Your Majesty. -He said again when he saw Net approaching.

-Good afternoon, guys. -Zee replied.

-Nunew, meet Jimmy, he's my personal driver. -Net approached the aforementioned, who bowed to the omega. -Don't believe his cute face, he knows how to protect someone.

-G-good afternoon. -Nunew greeted, having to look up at him.

-Look Jimmy, this is Nunew, Zee's boyfriend, and he's my friend now too. -Net told him.

-Nice to meet you young Nunew. -The tall one replied.

-So, are you coming back in a week? - Zee interrupted in front of the car door that had already been opened.

Nunew nodded, those days would be useful to calm the waters.

-Calm down, buddy, let him breathe for a while. - Net said, leaning on the car.

-Come on Zee, we're in for a big sermon when we get to Spades. - Max added next to him.

-You better go now. -Nunew replied upon hearing that. -Another time… We could have a date here, if you want.

The only thing Nunew hated was that their first day together in their own kingdom had to be like that. He would have liked to be able to go out together like any other couple at his university.

-I'd like to, when everything is calmer, maybe. -Without further ado, he approached to hug the omega. His friends had already gotten into the car, and only Mark was left outside waiting for him, and avoiding looking at them so as not to make them uncomfortable.

-Be careful on your journey. -Nunew said before standing on his toes to give him one last goodbye kiss before finally letting him go for a few days.

-

-

In the afternoon, a large package arrived at the Perdpiriyawongs' home. It had to be carried by several delivery men - from an unknown company - in front of the astonished gaze of the family. Inside the box was a large, ostentatiously decorated basket, in which were boxes of obviously expensive wines, boxes of dried fruit and artisanal cheeses. They also found a collection of products such as high-quality perfumes and soaps... Mrs. Perdpiriyawong almost fell to the floor when she opened a small box and found a set of jewellery, which she was afraid to even touch.

Along with everything there was a letter written in the King of Spades' own handwriting:

♠♠♠♠♠

Kingdom of Spades

xx-xx-xx

Dear Mr. Perdpiriyawong:

I am writing to you with deep respect to express my sincere apologies for the inappropriate actions of my son, Prince Pruk Panich. I am aware of the situation, where, driven by his passion, my son broke into your home just to see your son, Nunew Chawarin Perdpiriyawong.

I assure you that, for me, these acts are totally reprehensible, and I understand that your home is a sacred place, where the privacy and security of your family are fundamental.

As a token of apology, I am sending you and your family this carefully selected gift basket, which reflects the richness of my kingdom and the goodwill of my family. I hope that these gifts will be accepted and, despite this inappropriate beginning, this may be an opportunity to build bonds between our families.

Please accept my apologies for any inconvenience, discomfort and offense this incident has caused. I am fully committed to ensuring that situations like this do not happen again, and that my son respects his family's boundaries and traditions in the future, even if I am no longer present.

I appreciate your understanding and once again I apologize.

Sincerely.

Nadetch Panich

King of Spades

♠♠♠♠♠

Chapter Text

Zee's return to Spades continued to be quite a show, firstly because of the fear of entering the palace.

- Come on buddy, you can do it! - Max shouted after him, which made him realize that he had reached the front door thinking that Max was after him, but in reality, he had stayed behind, just outside the car.

- Max! What are you doing there?! - Zee yelled at him.

- I care about my life! At home I have to give my own explanations! But good luck Zee, you can handle this!

Zee sighed in resignation, turned around again and walked inside.

- Do you think it will be okay? - Mark asked, feeling deja vu.

-At worst, the King will stand up and hit him with a board with miraculous strength… But he will be able to handle it. - Max replied amused.

However, things with the King went better than expected.

The King was waiting patiently in his rocking chair, facing the door, waiting for him. So when Zee entered and found that, he felt fear run through his body.

-Dad, remember that you want me to give you grandchildren. - Was the first thing that came out of his mouth when he saw his father look at him harshly.

The King chose to ignore this excuse; he made him kneel at his feet and gave him a long sermon about family honor, and the respect he should have for the one who would become his in-laws, as well as for the person who would become his partner.

Zee was deeply grateful that his father was a sensible and change-oriented man, and not like his ancestors, who resorted to violence, even with his own blood.

His mother came in after the long conversation he had with his father, and that meant that the moment he never thought he would live had arrived: to talk about the next meeting with his partner. Regarding that topic, Zee could see how excited they both looked, who initially asked him if Nunew was not upset about what happened at home.

Having a good prognosis - adding the fact that the call with Mr. Perdpiriyawong flowed peacefully, where they talked about the limits they should establish with their sons and in the end, he told him that he approved of the boys' relationship as long as everything was done with respect -, the King gave the green light to his employees to organize the dinner with Nunew.

The King was so happy that he even gave the scoop to one of the employees who had just come in to deliver them sandwiches.

-Miriam, get ready because soon you will have to prepare dinner for my son's boyfriend and everything has to be exceptional so that he feels welcome in this house.

The girl cradled the tray against her body, not hiding her excitement at the news.

- Of course, my lord! We will see to it that way! - she exclaimed.

Zee felt a little nervous because Nunew was shy. He was happy to see the acceptance of their relationship even though Nunew was not a citizen of Spades, but he also had to tell his father to take things slowly and be discreet so as not to scare him.

After that, I definitely had to go send a message to the omega to tell him the facts.

In addition to communicating with him, Net called him that night to find out how everything was going.

- Hey Zee! How did it go? Did the King make you mop the whole palace with your tongue yet?

-Net… You better shut up. -Zee rubbed his temples upon hearing this. -Everything is fine, my father wants to have dinner with Nu. You didn't say anything about how things happened, did you?

-Of course not, that would make my parents feel ashamed and keep an eye on me.

Zee thought that made a lot of sense, after all, Net harbored less shame in his being.

-

-

Thus came the day for Nunew to confront his in-laws.

In this case, Yim had insisted that he and Tutor would take him, and so they did. While they did not enter the palace with him, they did not fail to encourage him all the way to where they were able to park.

As he said goodbye, two Spades Guards immediately appeared to escort him into the palace. During the walk, Nunew noticed that, in fact, further behind them, there were even more soldiers guarding them.

-E-excuse me. -Nunew dared to ask those who were at his sides. - Is this necessary?

-It's part of royal protocol, young Nunew. -One of them replied, still looking straight ahead.

Apparently everyone knew his name and his arrival. Zee had told him that everything would be as discreet as possible, but since his father was very happy, there would also be some “excessive” details.

The Spades Guards took him to the common room of the palace, where they asked him to wait a few moments for the prince.

Nunew sat down in one of the luxurious armchairs that decorated the room. He would never have imagined that the second time he would set foot in that palace would be for a family reunion.

He took out his phone to check his appearance with the help of the front camera; at this point he wanted to be sure that his makeup was in order and his clothes looked good. Although the first impression with Zee's parents was quite casual, he felt this occasion as something more serious, as if it was the real first impression, because he was now going as his partner.

Zee had also told him not to worry about dressing up, as it was going to be a family dinner where only his parents and his sister's family would be there. So, he opted for a pink turtleneck sweater, and simple white pants, as well as white loafers -he definitely wouldn't wear sneakers on such an occasion-.

While checking that his makeup was in order, he heard some murmurs coming from the entrance. Out of curiosity, he looked, and saw that those who were there immediately hid.

-Umm… Hello?

Slowly, two people peeked out again, coming out of hiding. They were two maids, who were wearing a uniform similar to the one he had seen the last time he came, but this one was more formal; like the common uniform, it was also a light blue dress with a white collar, but this one had long sleeves. On the left side of their chest, a spade symbol could be seen with a series of numbers under it, and also a tag with their names. It seemed as if they were preparing for a big event instead of a family dinner.

-Excuse us for bothering you, young Nunew, it was not our intention. - One of them spoke, an omega, who was shorter than her companion.

-Don't worry. -He smiled at them. -Why were you there anyway?

-We were just… curiosity. -The tallest girl, a beta, said.

- Curiosity?

-It's just that the King told us a few days ago that today's big dinner would be to make Prince Zee's boyfriend feel welcome, and we wanted to know if he was the same boy who came with him the day the King became ill. -The omega quickly explained.

-Ohh… Well, yes, it’s me. -He answered timidly.

-That's great. -The omega exclaimed effusively, to Nunew's bewilderment.

-Excuse me, we were afraid that Prince Zee was with someone who would treat us badly. -The beta explained.

-Oh, no, no, I wouldn't do that...

-Nu. -Zee appeared through the door, and Nunew immediately stood up.

Zee was always handsome, but he seemed to be even more handsome this time. The alpha wore a dark blue sweater with a white shirt tucked inside, as well as black dress pants and shoes of the same color. Plus, without fail, on his sweater, on the left side of his chest, he had the symbol of Spades.

-Sorry for the delay, I was finishing up some things... -He explained as he approached, and noticed the girls. -Girls, is something wrong?

-I'm asking them if you bring other omegas here. -Nunew answered for them with the intention of annoying him.

- No, no, no! Of course he doesn't! He's a gentleman! He would never do such a thing! // - Prince Zee has integrity, he doesn't do such things! He covers his eyes when there are omegas present! - Both girls answered in unison, nervous about what the prince might think.

Zee just laughed a little at the situation, and turned to the girls.

-He's just joking around to tease me girls, he's always liked to do that. -He said the last thing looking back at Nunew with a very soft expression.

- Me? Or the one who was chasing me just to piss me off? - Nunew answered with a big revelation, followed by a touch to Zee's chest.

The girls looked at each other, realizing it would be best to leave them alone.

- We have to go back to the kitchen. - The beta said.

-Yes, nice to meet you, young Nunew. -The omega said, and they left quickly.

They didn't stop looking at each other even when the girl’s said goodbye.

- Are you admitting that I won you over like this? - Zee dared to grab him by the waist.

- Hey! Don't go any further because I want to make a good impression and you'll ruin my makeup. - Nunew pushed him away by the chest.

-But they already know you. -Zee replied with a pout.

-This is different. -The omega replied, and Zee sighed resignedly.

-You win this time Nu. So, let's go to the dining room, are you ready? - Zee asked in a challenging tone.

-… Now I want to go to the bathroom.

Zee laughed again, he missed being with him so much.

-

When they arrived at the dining hall, Nunew saw that the food was already being served in the center. He could say with certainty that this was the largest dining table he had ever seen in his life.

Through another door someone appeared, it was Zee's brother-in-law, whom he had met at the parliament. He arrived with a baby in his arms.

-Young Nunew, welcome. Please take a seat, my wife and the rest of the family will be coming in a few minutes.

Nunew greeted him with a slight bow, and at the last thing he said, he looked at Zee a little nervously.

-Let's sit down. -Zee answered his look.

Shortly afterwards, as planned, the rest of the family arrived. Nunew stood up to greet the king as soon as he saw him arrive; he was wheeled in by members of the staff and finally placed at the head of the family at the dining table.

-Nunew, I ordered this whole banquet to welcome you. - The King began to speak once everyone was already at the table, including Zee's two little nephews, who were still looking at Nunew with great curiosity. - I want you to know how happy my wife and I are that you are part of this family.

Nunew felt a little embarrassed hearing that, he felt that everything was too much. If this was just to make their relationship known, what would it be like when they took further steps?

-Your Majesty. -He dared to speak. -With all due respect, I think it's too much.

- It's not too much. Nunew. Besides, it's also part of the apology for the scandal my lascivious son caused at your house a few days ago.

- Dad! - Zee exclaimed.

- What is “lascivious”? - asked the little girl who was sitting next to her mother in the dining room.

-Tara, please be quiet. - Her mother silenced her.

-I hope your parents enjoyed the gifts. -The King continued speaking.

-That's right. -Nunew looked more relaxed. -My dad doesn't hate Zee for what happened, he just needed to… process it.

-Don't worry, I understand perfectly, in his place I would have reacted the same way. But fortunately, Elf never did something like that, because as you should know, I have two omega daughters; Anne, who is here with us. -Nunew turned to look at the woman, who smiled at him. -And Nadine, who lives in Diamantes.

-I would have died before trying, your majesty. - Elf commented amused.

- Is it true that Uncle Zee came to look for you as if you were a princess? - The little girl asked again, now to Nunew.

-… Well, I'm not a princess, but I guess it was something like that. - Nunew answered the little girl, somewhat thoughtfully.

-But you have to admit that what my little brother did was very romantic, we never thought he would do such a thing. -Anne interrupted.

-I don't want to think about that, daughter, just thinking about the shame he made me go through makes me take a step closer to the grave. -The King replied.

-But we haven't seen you so energetic in a long time, dear. -Now it was the Queen's turn to speak, first to her husband, and then to Nunew. -Nunew, that night I didn't want my husband to find out about your father's call. I thought he was asleep when I answered, but it turned out that he was listening to us the whole time, so almost at midnight he wanted to get up to go find Zee and bring him back by the ears.

Nunew laughed a little at the anecdote, while Zee ate from his plate trying to dissociate.

-I was kept alive by the desire to beat up my own son. - The man commented again.

-But tell us… - Anne changed the subject, looking for answers from Nunew. - How did you two meet?

-Well… -Nunew didn't know what to say, he couldn't explain the truth 100%, since they didn't meet as it would have been in a tale of princes and princess.

-At university. -Zee replied.

-We already know that, but I want more details, I want to know how you courted him. - The young woman looked deeply interested.

Had they even been in courtship? One day they were fighting and the next they didn't want to leave each other.

-He… always followed me, and always wanted to make me happy. - That was the first thing Nunew thought of answering, remembering when Zee bought him the whisk so he wouldn't be sad.

Zee looked at him in surprise.

-I did notice something. The Queen commented, drawing everyone's attention.

- Really? Tell us, Mom. - Her daughter said.

-Fae had already told me that Zee was late for some errands, and also that he was going to college when he had no work to do there. I also noticed Zee was very distracted, sometimes very anxious, sometimes very happy… Then, when he brought Nunew home, the whole mystery was cleared up for me. Daughter, if you add two plus two in a young and single alpha, the result is very obvious.

-Mom… -Zee was perplexed.

-Son, I could have easily asked Mark where he took you when you guys disappeared for hours, or Fae about the reasons for your delays, but I decided to wait for you to tell me.

-But instead, he decided to dishonor his family. - The King interrupted.

- Honey, forgive him for that now, Zee has learned his lesson.

-You are right, the important thing now is that his love is reciprocated and our family is growing. In addition to three grown children, I now have two sons-in-law, and also two grandchildren from my daughter's side. -The King turned to look at the girl and the baby who was in his father's arms. -In the future I hope to have more grandchildren who will fill this house with joy. -He said now looking at them.

The two of them became extremely nervous about what was said, after all, that required…

-Dessert is here, your majesty. - A waiter entered with the food cart, bringing them out of their thoughts.

-Excellent. -The King said. -Nunew, I hope you like the sweets the palace has prepared for you. Zee says you like them very much and asked for several types to be made.

-Thank you very much, I'm sure I'll like them. - The omega replied and then turned to look at Zee, who seemed happy with his reaction.

-By the way, Nunew. -The Queen spoke for it. -Next week we are having a fundraising dinner for charity, my husband and I would like you to come. It will be a good way for you to become familiar with the duties of a Queen, and it will also be an opportunity for your relationship to be made known.

Nunew didn't know what to say; it was clear to him that he wanted their relationship to be formal and acknowledged to avoid misunderstandings. But the idea also frightened him.

-Don't be scared, we're not going to expose you to anything. Just the fact that you show up with Zee and we mention you as part of us will be a way of confirming it. -She spoke as if she could read his mind.

-So… Okay, I'd like to. -He turned to look at Zee again. -If Zee wants…

-I'll be happy to have you come with me. -Zee said.

-Then I will come. -Nunew said confidently to the Queen.

-Say no more, then we will be waiting for you. - She answered happily.

The dinner continued, with more conversations probing the couple, and more information about Zee's family, which Nunew listened to with interest.

Because it was so late when dinner ended, the kings proposed that he spend the night in the palace; there they would provide him with everything he needed to wash and sleep. Nunew accepted; in this way, he suddenly found himself in the bathtub of the room they had prepared for him.

It was a fairly large bathroom, decorated in white marble and various blue moldings. The tub was very large; it had been prepared so that the water was at a perfect temperature, the bubbles fluttered around his body and the smell of bath salts filled his nostrils, so he sank into the water a little, relaxing.

Later he came out and found a pair of pajamas laid out on the big bed. He immediately put them on and felt the soft silk caressing his skin. He hugged himself to feel it better. It was the kind of thing he never thought he would ever know.

The door slammed, causing him to let go of himself. Maybe it was Zee.

Zee had accompanied him to the room, but before leaving him alone, Nunew had taken him by the arm.

-Don't go, stay here.

-But, Nu…

- Could you... sleep here? I don't know anyone... I don't want to be alone.

Zee looked at him strangely, and understood that it was certainly best to accompany him until he felt safer.

-Okay, I'll stay, I'll just go to my room to get ready and I'll be back, okay?

Upon opening the door, he indeed found the alpha, who returned wearing pajamas similar to the ones he had, but in blue.

- Ready to sleep? - He asked as he entered.

-Yeah, I already took a bath and… Oops. -He grabbed his cheeks and Zee looked at him with concern.

- Is something wrong?

-Nothing, I just didn't put on makeup. -He covered his face with his hands.

-Nu, I've already seen you without makeup, you know, I went to your house...

-But it's different Zee, I'm in a palace.

-Nu is pretty, even if you don't have makeup on. If you go out like that, everyone in the palace will know that you are their future Queen anyway.

-A Queen with pale cheeks. -Nunew answered amused.

-But that doesn't make you any less beautiful. -Zee emphasized, raising his index finger. -Now come on, let's go to bed, it's late.

Nunew looked at him sheepishly at the compliment. The alpha climbed onto the bed, patting the mattress, to which Nunew responded by running and jumping on.

-It's very comfortable. -Nunew said, jumping up and down where he sat. -The beds in the dorm are a rock compared to this one.

-And you haven't tried jumping on mine... -Zee said, getting under the covers, apparently not yet realizing the meaning of his words. -... I mean, a prince's mattress is much more comfortable! -He exclaimed quickly as soon as he realized.

-Well… -Nunew got under the covers too, lying on his side facing him. - I can imagine, maybe another day you'll show me your room.

The two stood face to face, although they couldn't see each other, since Zee had already turned off the light.

-Sure, another day you will stay there… Good night, Nu.

-Good night, Zee.

-

-

Morning came through the window in the form of a light light filtering through the white curtains. Nunew was the first to wake up, moving a little in bed, and the movement made him feel something unusual …

Zee was behind him; he could hear soft snores reaching his ears. Also, he had Zee's arm around his waist and he also felt Zee's feet close to his. Then… that other thing…

His eyes snapped open as he felt that thing move against his buttocks and the scent of alpha pheromones hit him hard. For a moment everything stopped, and he even had to hold his breath as his brain formed responses.

Then, between Zee's snores, he heard what seemed to be a moan. All of this caused his body to start to feel hot, and his physical response was to make some small movements with his pelvis, with the intention of "checking out what it was", so by making those movements he was pulling his hips back, feeling that hardness more clearly. But he didn't stop there, he continued moving, it was as if his body was reacting involuntarily.

It was growing larger, and Nunew felt himself trembling as he became aware of it. He closed his eyes, trying to imagine what it was like, just by being able to feel it. He knew he was not a pure-minded soul, so his imagination formed many possible shapes that this thing could have, and the more he thought, the more he felt his breathing become labored and his hips automatically move.

Suddenly, he felt Zee's hand in front of him clench into a fist.

The alpha's forehead collided with his shoulder… That alone made him stop.

-… I… I’m sorry. - He managed to hear the alpha’s hoarse voice.

A silence formed due to the awkwardness.

Nunew took a breath and with it, he took courage; he removed the alpha's arm from his body -which made Zee turn his head to the side as well- and turned fully towards him.

-I… -Not having enough words, he went straight to the actions and brought one of his hands to the alpha's clothed crotch, where he began to rub it over his pajama pants.

- Nu! -Zee woke up completely when he felt that.

-I am also responsible. - Fearful, Nunew continued rubbing, being able to feel in more detail the shape of the phallus dressed in that slippery fabric.

Zee gasped and rolled to the side, lying down. Nunew moved closer to him, still touching him, and settled so that his head was resting on the alpha's chest.

- Can I…? - Nunew asked, turning to look at him, taking the elastic of his pants, finding Zee covering his face with one of his hands.

-Yeah…

With his consent, he reached out his trembling hand to rummage beneath the garment…

His heart was beating so hard and his body was heating up, never in his virginal life did he believe he will be doing something like this.

He felt the member through the damp underwear, rubbing it up and down again. Nearby he could hear Zee's panting breaths, which made him feel his own crotch starting to react.

Without thinking twice, he moved on to the next level and put his hand under his boxers, finally feeling that penis moistened by the pre-cum that had already begun to come out, and which he perceived on the fabric as soon as he rubbed over it.

With that direct contact, his imagination flew even further; maybe he couldn't see it, but he was already feeling that flesh vividly. He felt the wet glans and rubbed it with his palm in an attempt to obtain more lubrication with the pre-cum, and then moved on to the shaft. It felt so thick, the prominent veins that covered it were easily palpable so he traced them with his fingers. At this Zee let out a very loud gasp, that motivated him to cover the shaft with his hand once and for all and start pumping it slowly. The alpha's hoarse moans activated his instincts and as the alpha's scent had concentrated, his wet entrance began to throb.

Now wrapping his hand around his penis, he continued the up and down motion. In between he would brush his thumb over his urethra, as well as making sweeping motions as he reached the shaft, thinking seriously about how much the knot would expand, and how it would feel to have him inside him. He slowly increased the speed according to his own level of arousal. That arousal was fueled by the fact that Zee's hand that crossed behind his body landed on his hips and was also rubbing and squeezing his ass every time a spasm of pleasure went through him.

He didn't see it coming when the alpha managed to get through the barrier of his clothes and up his abdomen to his chest, where he ran his fingers over the nearest nipple and pinched it. Then, he stifled the loud moan against Zee's chest, and for those seconds he released the alpha penis. Zee's hand went back down, brushing him over his pants again. On one hand, he didn't want Zee to get under his underwear or he would end up losing control and that wouldn't be the only thing he would lose there that morning...*

Anyway, with his other hand, which was under his body, he ended up unbuttoning the first few buttons of his pajamas to caress his chest and then lowered it to his crotch to rub himself. He wanted so much to take off all those annoying clothes and show his naked body to the alpha, while he climbed on top of him riding him to see if he would get wild… with so much heat he didn't even remember his insecurities… but he shouldn't, he had to keep his sanity in the middle of the dense heat full of pheromones.

He quickly resumed his motion with Zee's cock, picking up speed; Zee threw the hand covering his forehead to the side. The alpha was now letting out his guttural gasps louder.

-Nu, I... I'm going to... - The alpha was almost incomprehensible between his moans.

-Do it in my hand. -Nunew answered, caressing the urethra with his thumb, and squeezed the phallus again -carefully- with greater speed.

With that answer, he provoked a loud moan from Zee, which came along with a jet of semen that spread between the omega's hand and the clothes that covered him. Feeling it, Nunew let go of the phallus and left his hand there for a moment, but then he pulled it out, leaving both of them breathing heavily.

After a while, Nunew opened his eyes again. He needed to get up and go to the bathroom, but now he felt so embarrassed that he didn't know how they were going to look at each other. So, fearfully, he got up with the help of only one hand -the other was stained with semen- and turned to Zee, who had already opened his eyes.

-… Nu… you'll make me hard again… - He said, looking in front of him at a spectacle: Half of the buttons on Nunew's pajama shirt were undone, so that the garment had slipped off one of his shoulders, leaving a nipple and part of the rest of his chest exposed.

Nunew, realizing this, quickly covered himself with his hands, but remembered -and felt- that one of his hands was wet and removed them again, exposing his chest and nipple again, now stained with the alpha's semen.

-Oh my God… - The alpha lamented, covering his face with his hands.

- You are a dirty person! - Nunew exclaimed, turning his back on him.

-Says the one who's been masturbating me for a while. -Zee countered.

- Shhh! -Nunew was blushing as he heard his actions described. -… I better go take a bath; I have to get home.

-Wait, Nu. -Zee sat up, before Nunew left the bed. -I'm sorry if all this offended you, I…

- Why would you believe that? … I wanted to. - The omega turned to face him again and approached him, and Zee didn't miss the opportunity to approach him and hug him as well.

As soon as they let go of each other, Nunew quickly went to the bathroom, and Zee watched him go, lost in his movements as he walked... until he realized that the omega had stained him with his wet hand on one of his arms, at which point he made a face of disgust, especially when he remembered that the inside of his pants was also a mess... It would be uncomfortable to walk to his room like that.

-

-

Later, Zee went down to the dining room after taking a long bath that cooled his thoughts after such a morning. When he arrived, he found Nunew already sitting there, and on the other side of the table, Max.

- Hello?

-Good morning, Zee, I came to have breakfast and I found him here. - Max greeted.

Zee looked at Nunew, who in turn looked down. It was difficult to hold his gaze after what they had done. He also became nervous, now that he had a cool head things felt different.

-Hey... what are you guys up to? -Max looked at them suspiciously. -Did you get into a fight?

-Nothing Max, I have to take Nunew to the dorm, so I'll be back later. - Zee changed the subject by taking out his car keys. Nunew stood up and grabbed the bag provided to carry his clothes. He had been given new clothes to wear home.

-Okay, I'll wait for you here, there are things to talk about. -Max watched them leave in silence.

-

-

The walk home was silent. Despite having apologized, Zee still felt as if he had done something wrong. But on the other hand, it had been Nunew who had taken the initiative for that… So, his mind was a mess.

Nunew, on the other hand, was looking out the window, not yet able to turn to look at him. He felt like some kind of abuser, since he had been the one who started rubbing against the alpha who was still sleeping, and then he did more things to him; he touched his… his chili -as Net would say- and masturbated him with the same hand that he had slapped him with a couple of months ago. That was something he couldn't get over, and since he wasn't a pure soul, he would surely continue to remember the whole experience for the rest of the day and at night he would have vivid dreams.

They reached the dorms and Zee got out with him, offering to carry his bag and escort him to his room. Nunew accepted, without saying many words. But upon arriving, the conversation took place.

-Nu… -It was Zee who started to speak. -… Do you remember that I told you that I would like to travel somewhere with you before returning to school?

Nunew really remembered that, it was in the days when his fear was consuming him.

-I would still like to… If you wanted.

- Where to? - He asked curiously, taking his bag.

-I was thinking about CrystalBrook, maybe you've heard of that place.

-I've seen some videos about that place. -Nunew's eyes reflected excitement in his response. -They say it's very magical.

-That's right. -Zee's concern vanished when he saw the omega so interested. -CrystalBrook is further ahead of Arkonix, and we can return the same day. It's also close to the mountains, so it's colder.

-This time I brought some warm clothes. -Nunew smiled triumphantly.

-I was also thinking that we could stop by there to pick out your clothes for the charity event.

-Zee… -The omega's expression became worried again. -I don't have enough for something expensive…

-It's all from me Nu, I'm the one who's inviting you. Besides, I was the one who followed you home just to ask you to be my life partner. Please don't feel like you don't deserve it. Besides, your work in the future will be tiring, it's not just a luxury.

-Well… If you put it that way…- Nunew went from being thoughtful to looking positive at the answer. -Okay, and I will do my best to learn what I have to do.

-So, I'll tell you what to bring later, okay? Mark won't be coming with us this time so we have to be prepared.

Nunew nodded.

Before leaving, Nunew wanted to return to the topic of the morning, not wanting to be left with no words left in his throat.

-Zee, sorry if I bothered you this morning.

- What? No… Believe me, that didn't bother me… -Zee tried every way to tell him that it hadn't been bad. -Actually… I enjoyed it… I just wasn't expecting it.

Nunew raised his face with a puzzled expression, which softened as the weight was lifted off his shoulders.

-After all, you are a dirty alpha. - Said the one who had not been thinking about the alpha's penis the whole way, and, returning to his old self, he took the first step of approaching him and hugging his neck. Zee responded by entwining his arms around his waist, and in the middle of the hug he lifted him up, causing Nunew to giggle.

By now, they were no longer interested in people passing by in the hallway. They didn't even mind if someone watched them as they walked together. However, the door behind them opened and Yim leaned in to interrupt them.

-Nunew, it's good that you're here, we have to start with today's cleaning. -As he said his words, they separated, turning to him. -But if his majesty doesn't want to let you go, you can stay and help clean the bathroom.

-Good morning to you too, Yim. -Zee said. -I would very much like to help you, but I must return to the palace.

-I'm coming Yim, don't worry.

-I'll wait for you then. - Yim said goodbye, closing the door, but a second later he opened it again. - Have a nice day, Your Majesty. - He went back inside, leaving the door half open now.

-I have to clean the bathroom. -Nunew turned to him. -See you then.

They looked at each other for a few thousandths of a second, and then they took the step of kissing each other on the lips as a farewell. After what had happened that morning, what would be the shame in that?

Zee said goodbye and, like last time, disappeared down the hall.

-

-

Upon returning to the palace, he searched for Max until he found him watching TV in the movie theater with Mark.

-Anyone would say you live here. -He said as soon as he entered the room.

- Your Majesty! - Mark stood up, frightened when he saw him. - Excuse me, I'll be back to my area in a moment. - The man quickly left the place before the eyes of those present.

-You're not even a king yet and you're already scary, you're on the right track. -Max said with irony. -But going back to your question, yes, I almost live here.

-So, what was it you had to tell me? -Zee moved to sit next to him.

-I'll let the news speak for itself. -Max looked through his phone until he found what he was looking for and showed the screen.

It was a news item:

“Spades in danger? Sources report that the King is about to take his last breath and there are still no signs of his son’s coronation”

- What?! -Zee was stunned. - Where did this come from? My father has been stable, this couldn't have come from here.

-That's the interesting thing, I tracked down the source and that news comes from Joker Land.

-They are trying to misinform.

-Exactly. -Max leaned back in his seat. -It seems they are trying to give the false impression that Picas is collapsing.

Zee sighed in frustration. He had just left Nunew in his bedroom, but now he had to return to his heavy reality.

-You and your future queen must hurry to show yourselves to deny that.

-Don't worry, he'll be with me at the charity event. -Zee leaned back in his seat as well. -Although that might not calm the rumors.

-No, but it will put a new spin on all this… But for now, relax man, and tell me how dinner went.

Zee, despite everything, appreciated Max's ways of not frustrating him more than he already was. There were days when everything seemed to be against him. The best thing to do at those times was certainly to relax, tell him about his night -avoiding the details of the morning-, and then he would report the case to his mother, who was also aware of the situation now that his father had to avoid stressing himself out.

Besides, he didn't want anything to take away from his excitement for his upcoming trip with Nunew, mostly due to the fact that they would be traveling alone… Which also made him a little nervous now that he knew how heated things could get between them. After all, they were an alpha and an omega traveling alone to a cold town… Well, maybe it was quite valid to be nervous.

-

Chapter Text

-I've got some snacks, my toiletry bag and some extra clothes like you told me, and in my handbag my cell phone, gloves, wallet and makeup. -Nunew was rummaging through said bag. His backpack was in the backseat of the car. They were already on the road to CrystalBrook.

- Excellent, I have the first aid kit in the trunk and I asked Mark to pack some other things that could be useful. It seems like the weather is nice today, but I'm bringing an extra jacket for you anyway. - Zee was driving, glancing at Nunew, who was wearing a white long-sleeved T-shirt and a pink cardigan with a hood with bear ears, very Nunew-like. - Since you're not used to this climate, you might need it.

-You think?

-CrystalBrook was usually warmer around this time of year, but this year it has been very cold. We are not yet in winter and it is already possible to see the villages besieged by snow. Arkonix will probably also be enveloped in cold weather very soon.

Nunew remembered Yim's words about the bad omen for the people due to the fall of the King and the Queen's concern. What he had told him was true.

-If the weather continues to be nice, we'll be able to get back without any problems. But if it starts to snow, we'll have to stay overnight, so I asked you to pack some extra clothes in your backpack.

-I would like to see snow.

-There will surely be. Actually, the problem is not the snow, it is the storms.

-I'm sure we'll do well. I've always wanted to visit a snowy town. In Hearts, some people call your dad the "Ice Cream King."

Zee was taken by surprise by this revelation, and found it very funny.

- What?

-Well, Spades is the coldest and snowiest kingdom.

- And yet you still didn't bring enough clothes for cold temperatures? - Zee questioned him mockingly, and Nunew turned to look at him.

-Yim told me that it wasn't that cold in the central city and that I wouldn't need them that much… Besides, I never expected to travel to snowy places with the prince… - Nunew played with the strap of his bag, with a half-smile.

- The Ice Cream Prince? -Zee continued to have fun with the nicknames.

-The Ice Prince sounds better, but it doesn't suit you anymore.

- What? Why not? Sounds great.

-Well, it's how other people see you and how you were when I first met you, but then you became very warm towards me. -Nunew felt shy confessing the way he saw him.

Zee didn't know what to answer, that answer was revealing. Things had really changed drastically in his life since he met Nunew. He could tell that he didn't even recognize his former self anymore.

-I love that things have changed like this. -He released one hand from the steering wheel and brought it over to one of Nunew's hands. -This is my source of heat.

-

After a long journey, they finally arrived at CrystalBrook; and just as Nunew had dreamed, it was a magical place that left him in awe. It was no different than Arkonix in terms of its beautiful cobblestone road surrounded by rustic-style houses, but there was something about CrystalBrook that made it seem magical; maybe it was the snowy mountains that looked closer, or the pine trees that were scattered around the city, or even the warm-clothed people walking through the streets.

And speaking of warm clothes, the icy wind attacked his body, confirming that his clothes would not be enough when he was not used to such a cold place. Fortunately, Zee took a black jacket out of the car and covered him with it.

- Do you want to go to breakfast first or should we go to the clothes store?

Nunew, who finished zipping up his jacket, looked at him as if making the answer obvious.

-I'm hungry.

Zee smiled, that was to be expected

So, they walked through the cold streets of CrystalBrook in search of a warm place to eat.

After that, they arrived at the suit shop. It looked big from the outside, and inside were visible expensive suits.

An older man appeared between the corridors and, upon seeing them, he stopped what he was doing to go directly to them.

- Your Majesty! Good morning, are you looking for something in particular? - The man arrived and immediately greeted Zee with a bow.

-Yes, I'm looking for a suit for a charity dinner, but it's not for me, it's for Nunew. -With that, Zee introduced Nunew by taking him by the waist.

The man was shocked, and Nunew felt nervous as the man's gaze ran over him.

-Nunew comes from Hearts, so we need something that fits its origin. -Zee said again, catching the shop manager's attention again.

-Y-yes, come with me please, I surely have what I need. - The man turned around to start walking.

They followed him, passing through several aisles of the store, until they went up to the next floor, where there were suits in different shades. Finally, they arrived at an area where several suits in pink and red tones were clustered together.

-I'm sure there will be something here to your liking. As soon as you find it, let me know so I can adjust it.

Nunew turned to look at Zee. He had never worn such clothes before, so he didn't know what criteria he should use to choose something.

-Thank you very much, we will call you then. - Zee replied.

The attendant left and Nunew followed Zee, who was searching through the hanging suits. Nunew did not want to touch anything, so many ostentatious fabrics terrified him.

After a while, Zee selected a few based on Nunew's approval, and they went to the fitting room area, where Zee waited for him on the armchairs.

It wasn't easy to find one; from the first suit, Zee noticed how Nunew didn't look happy in the mirror, it was a rather tasteless suit according to his words. Another was too big for the final result to be pleasing to the eye. Another made him itch...

And, just as Nunew was changing clothes, the shop manager returned.

- Have you found any to your liking?

-We're working on it. Nunew doesn't usually dress like this, and he's a bit fussy. -Zee showed some joy as he described it.

-With all due respect, Your Majesty, I'm still a bit surprised. I was aware of the rumors, but I didn't know what to think…

-I think there is nothing more to think about, today he was lucky enough to confirm it with his own eyes. From now on, you will see Nunew more present with me.

-Zee. -Nunew's voice was heard from the fitting room.

-Nu, is something wrong?

-I think this one is perfect. -He came out of the fitting room, revealing a pink double-breasted suit that accentuated his figure and was tied in a side knot with the same fabric.

Zee stood up, his expression just as approving as the omega's. The suit was gorgeous and fit him perfectly.

Nunew spun around in front of the mirror, admiring how well it looked on him. Zee came closer and looked at every detail as well.

-I don't think any adjustments will be necessary... We'll just add an undergarment and that's it. -He said this last while subtly looking at the chest exposed due to the low cut of the crossing. Without further ado, he looked at the person in charge again. -We'll take this one.

-Excellent choice, let me tell you that you look very beautiful and elegant, young Nunew. -The shop manager commented.

-Then we can proceed to payment. -Zee replied. -Nu, you can take it off now to get it wrapped.

Nunew returned to the fitting room to do as instructed, and before long the suit was finally placed in its box and handed over to them, who left the store satisfied. Especially Nunew, who was looking at the box as they walked by, felt like a child receiving his Christmas present (and Zee asked not to mention the cost of the suit so as not to scare him).

-Let's put the suit in the trunk. - Zee indicated as they approached the car. - It looks cloudier than this morning, we might as well tour the city and come back early so we don't get caught in a storm.

At this plan, Nunew seemed discouraged and Zee noticed it.

-Nu… Is something wrong?

-And maybe…? -Nunew was very hesitant to express his desire.

Zee didn't understand, Nunew looked sad.

-Nunu?

- What if we stay? - He asked at last, looking him in the eyes. -… You said that you had adjusted your schedule, and that you probably wouldn't be able to come back today… Couldn't we…?

- You're sure?

- Y-you don't want to? - The omega's spirits seemed down.

- What? No, it's not that, of course I want to and we can do it. -Zee approached him, trying to comfort him. -I had planned to go to some lodge cabins that are near here in case we stay, are we going now?

The omega's spirits immediately returned, reflected in the form of a big smile. He left the bag with the suit box on the ground and hugged him, leaving a kiss on the alpha's cheek at the end.

-Let's go now. -He said as he released him.

He picked up his bag and headed quickly to the car. Zee stood there for a few moments, looking at him tenderly; if he could keep Nunew this happy, he had to plan more trips.

With the decision made, they set off for the lodge cabins. These were located on the outskirts of the town, away from the central area, since their distinctive feature was to offer a more private experience in contact with nature, so they traveled a few minutes more by car to get there.

-…But my family still believes that Tutor is Yim's suitor, and I haven't dared to tell him that it was all a lie. -Nunew took advantage of the way to tell Zee about his adventure of inventing that Yim has a relationship with someone to hide his own, and Zee in response to that, couldn't help but laugh.

-What your father and brother say makes sense, Nunu.

- So soon you're going to side with them? - NuNew narrowed his eyes at him.

-It's not that, it's just that an alpha actually does everything an omega wants when he has a special interest in him, and Tutor doesn't cooperate in proving otherwise.

-So… you think that… and they're left alone. -Nunew seemed to be having a revelation, and, as he looked up at the front. -… Zee, look!

Nunew pointed to the windshield, where small snowflakes were beginning to appear.

Zee was used to freezing climates, but Nunew came from a sunny kingdom. The reactions were completely opposite. Nunew's eyes were filled with excitement as he watched the snowflakes change the landscape.

Zee made a decision, pulled over to the side of the road - they were close to reaching their destination - and parked the car.

-Come on, let's go touch the snow. -He said, opening his own door.

Nunew followed him, first making sure he had his hat and gloves on.

His first steps under the shower of snowflakes were as magical as he had ever imagined. He reached out his palms to catch some, and wanted to cry as he watched those microscopic ice stars fall into his gloves. And, as he looked up at the sky, he felt them fall for the first time on his cheeks, reddened by the cold.

He reached out his arms to receive more of them. He didn't care about the cold, it felt unreal and he didn't want this moment to end.

What he hadn't realized was that, leaning against the car, Zee was taking pictures and videos of him with his cell phone. The alpha intended to show that to the world, maybe not at that moment, but he would do it later. It was a beautiful scene for him.

-Zee, what are you doing? -Nunew called him with his hands on his waist, having already noticed.

When the verse was discovered, Zee pressed the record button, recharged the phone in the car so that it was pointed at both of them on that lonely road and went to the omega. When he reached him, he put his hands around his waist and pressed him against his body.

- Don't you want to have memories of the trip?

Nunew smiled upon hearing that and hugged him around the neck.

-Yeah…

Zee took advantage and put his hands under his buttocks with the intention of lifting him up. Something that initially took Nunew by surprise, but then he responded with laughter when Zee picked him up and began to spin with him.

At that moment, they were just two boys in love playing in the snow.

-

-

The cabin complex was designed in such a way that each one had total privacy, so they left the car in the designated parking lot and took out their things to register and then follow the guide through a long path illuminated by the yellow spotlights that decorated the path.

The snow was still falling lightly, so it didn't make the walk difficult. Thanks to this we were able to go out to eat at a kind of cafeteria belonging to the site. There were few people there, and the cold weather made the guests prefer to order food to their rooms.

-Okay, who do I place the order in the name of? - asked the young receptionist in front of her computer.

-Zee Pruk Panich.

The woman immediately turned around upon hearing that name. It had not been easy to distinguish him upon their arrival because the two entered with their hoods on and face masks due to the low temperature that was already felt.

- Excuse me, Your Majesty! - The woman walked away from the machine, bowing in complete embarrassment. - Please forgive me, I hadn't recognized you…

-Don't worry, miss, we're here as two more guests. -Zee didn't want the woman to attract the attention of the rest of those present.

Hearing the "we are," the woman fixed her gaze on the omega holding the prince's arm... She had not woken up that morning prepared to attend to the most talked about couple among the inhabitants of the kingdom.

-O-okay. -She returned to her seat. -You can have a seat, your orders will be ready shortly.

The two looked at each other and walked towards the back of the place, looking for seats that were private enough. Which would probably be useless, since after having done a quick check of the situation on TwitCard, they had found more photos of them, mostly at the university and, since people were quick, they had even found Nunew's Cardstagram profile, which he had made private before the rumors escalated. For the moment, they preferred to keep a low profile, since the hashtag #RoyaltyCouple was growing more and more every day.

After a while in the cafeteria, he decided to go back to the cabin. There was now a bit of wind accompanying the snowfall, it was already mid-afternoon and due to the weather conditions, it was already looking dark.

Nunew clasped his hands together, shaking from the cold. Zee, noticing this, opened his jacket so that he could wrap his arms around his body in a hug to warm himself.

-I should have brought a warmer jacket, omegas are more sensitive to the cold.

-We have less muscle mass. -Nunew managed to say between the hug.

-Especially one as small as you. -Zee said, stroking his back.

They returned to the cabin, sticking together as closely as possible. As soon as they arrived, Nunew stretched out his arms in peace thanks to the heating.

-You can go take a bath, I will call the palace to let them know that we will return tomorrow, and I will also take some things out of the suitcase. -Zee indicated.

Nunew ascended. When they had arrived, they inspected the cabin; it was cozy, it had a small living room with TV, a kitchen area, and on the upper floor was the bedroom. The room had large windows where you could see the landscape from the bed, the toilet, there was also a small shower and, most expected, a hot water jacuzzi on the terrace. From there you could see a beautiful snowy panorama.

Nunew took out his toiletry bag to have it on hand during the shower, but upon arriving, shyness ran through him when he saw that the shower walls were made of semi-transparent material.

-

Zee ended the call with Fae, after several minutes in which she told him about the pending work of the day and what was missing... In addition to a comment that generated an exchange of uncomfortable words for both.

[And Zee, please use protection]

-The Spades Army is monitoring my coordinates at all times, don't worry.

[You know very well that I don't mean that]

-Fae, don't start like my father, I'm already old.

[It doesn't hurt to remind you, Zee, that you are young and have your needs, but a baby now would increase the workload.]

- Bye Fae! See you tomorrow!

Hung up.

He wasn't going to broach that subject with his royal adviser. He'd had enough of Max's comments the day before the trip.

He went upstairs with his suitcase to start tidying up his room, but when he arrived, the sight he found increased his concern: the sound of the shower water along with Nunew's sweet voice humming a song was the only thing he could hear. When he looked for him, he saw Nunew's naked silhouette through the semi-transparent walls of the shower.

He stood there for a considerable time looking at the moving figure, noticing how small that waist was, how wide his hips were... Until he slapped himself internally to stop looking like a pervert spying on him, so he better started taking out the things he needed to take out.

After a while, Nunew came out, wrapped only in the bathrobe provided by the hotel. Zee was lying on the bed using his phone until he turned to look at him.

-The bath is ready. -The omega said, getting his attention.

-Okay, then I'll go take a bath...

Zee got out of bed and quickly jumped into the shower. Those two sentences had been a bit awkward.

He stripped off his clothes and turned on the shower, giving way to hot water. After a long day of walking in the snow, it was what his body needed… But speaking of his body, his curiosity got the better of him and he saw Nunew's figure through the shower walls; perhaps it was completely blurry what he could see, but he could also make out the moment when the omega dropped his bathrobe so he could get dressed.

That made him immediately turn to look at his little friend, but it was too late, because he had already betrayed him…

-Don't do this to me now, don't do this to me now, please... - He told himself internally as he saw how the betrayal took the form of a semi-erection. - He's going to see you through the walls, imbecile!

His little friend had to be thankful that he was glued to his body, or else he would have tried to beat him down.

He had no choice but to continue showering, trying to keep his back to the omega so that he wouldn't notice that Zee's figure looked like a coat rack.

Great was his fortune when he heard Nunew leave the room, with that he breathed a sigh of relief thinking that he had not seen anything.

But that was the problem, that was just what he thought.

-

-

After a long bath, he went out to get dressed while letting out a sigh of peace due to the privacy. However, being deep in thought didn't allow him to see that the omega had been watching him for a while from the railing of the stairs.

Zee, turning around, was surprised to find Nunew staring at him.

Nunew had been wearing long-sleeved pajamas and fuzzy pants, and Zee thought maybe that would help create a “barrier” to his bad thoughts.

-Nu…

-Zee, does it bother you… that I'm so close to you? - Nunew had expressed that idea with total coldness.

- What? What are you talking about?

-I feel like something's bothering you, maybe I should stay downstairs. -Nunew left him with the word in his mouth and quickly went down the stairs.

Zee wasted no time and went after him; he didn't understand why the omega believed that?

- Nu! - Zee caught him just as he reached the ground floor, grabbing him by the arm.

Nunew turned around, his eyes glazed over and on the verge of tears.

-Please tell me, did I do something wrong? -Zee took his face in his hands.

-Y-you're… rejecting me. - The omega said in a choked voice.

-Rejecting?

-I saw you… in the shower… and before, you ran away from me.

So, it was more than obvious that he had noticed his conflict in the bathroom.

-I'm not running away from you; I'm avoiding offending you!

- Then stop doing it!

- What?

- I have so many insecurities about my body and you're just making it worse! - By this point, his tears were already rolling down his cheeks. - I'm trying to be more confident and I just feel rejected.

Zee didn't know exactly what to say to that, but he couldn't let this continue.

- Are you sure? You're not going to get scared, angry, or hit me with the toilet plunger if I do what I want to do?

In response, Nunew placed his hands on the alpha's shoulders, and kissed him.

Zee understood that he had permission, so he reciprocated the kiss that started out as something very sweet while they were there, because when they went up things would change.

Upon releasing him, he acted quickly to grab him by the waist and carry him over his shoulder.

- What…? Zee!

-Don't try to scream omega, no one will hear you.

Nunew couldn't deny that just that had sent a shiver through his entire body and ended between his legs.

Zee climbed up with him as quickly as he could, avoiding falling in the process.

Through the large window you could see the fort surrounded by snow, and inside the room was illuminated by the warm lights of the lamps.

Zee put Nunew on the bed and before climbing on him, he took off his pajama shirt.

Nunew looked at him excitedly, frightened and somewhat blocked in his movements. He had asked him that and now he didn't know exactly how to act. But before he could think any further, he already had Zee on top of him kissing him again.

That kiss was no longer chaste like the previous ones, Zee had already put his tongue in and was now playing with hims; Nunew began to keep pace with him, also moving his hands towards his broad back, which he began to run his fingers over.

Zee now sucked on his lower lip, moving on to trace his jaw bone with his tongue and move up to his neck. While there, he caressed the scent gland area with his tongue, which had already begun to give off the sweet aroma of strawberries and cream characteristic of Nunew, and this mixed with his own menthol aroma, creating a unique atmosphere, where the two essences became one.

At these caresses, Nunew pushed his head back to give him space. Zee ran his tongue over that area, causing shivers in the omega, followed by a spasm as soon as he took a small bite.

Nunew purred at the feel of it, he knew the alpha wasn't going to bite him, but his inner omega strongly wished he would.

Suddenly, a hand slipping under his pajama shirt made him open his eyes.

They were back at that moment again, and now he wasn't ready to run away, but he also had enough clarity to feel afraid.

-Zee… -He interrupted. -Wouldn't you like to turn off the light? -He asked timidly.

-No. I want to see everything. -He answered in a serious voice.

-But… -Nunew brought his hands to his chest, creating a barrier.

-Nu... -Zee allowed himself to be interrupted, grabbed him by the arms and sat him down, with him still between his legs. -You're still dressed and you already have me like this. -He pointed to his crotch, and the omega opened his eyes wide when he saw that large phallus lift the thin fabric of his pajama pants. -And believe me, it's not the first time your body makes me have this kind of reaction.

Nunew kept looking at that place, and, thanks to Zee's words, he got rid of the fear he felt, taking the courage to continue.

He looked Zee in the eye again, and gave him the okay to continue.

Zee didn't need to think twice, he immediately grabbed the shirt from the edge and lifted it up, now having the cooperation of Nunew, who helped him by lifting his arms. With that chest finally exposed, he laid it down again, burying his face in the sternum area, sniffing it, scraping it with his teeth… Nunew raised his arms above his head, letting himself go, and jumped as soon as he felt Zee's tongue pass over one of his nipples.

Zee had him pinned down against the bed, tracing his tongue along the areola and ending by passing it over the tip of the already hard nipple, moving it from side to side. He did this repetitive movement on one, and then went on to do the same on the other.

Nunew's toes were clenched tightly from the stimulation, and his arms couldn't take it anymore and he lowered them to hold Zee's neck. He wanted to feel more, so he tried to push him further into his chest. Zee understood the message, and, abandoning his previous game, he completely captured the nipple he was playing with inside his mouth, sucking on it.

- Ahhh! - Nunew cried. And then he felt Zee give his nipple little bites as soon as he finished sucking on it.

After finishing with that one, Zee moved on to the other one with the same objective, to mistreat that little tip with his lips and teeth. After leaving both nipples moist, he moved on to give kisses to the center, then going down little by little, reaching his navel and, finally, to the edge of his pants.

Standing there, he looked up, finding a red-cheeked Nunew also looking at him.

-I need you to be sure…

-Do it now. -Nunew replied, drowned in ecstasy.

Zee stood up on his knees, grabbed the pants by the hem and pulled them down until they were completely off. In front of him was Nunew, only in a pair of tight underwear that covered a noticeable erection… He loved the view, so he immediately wanted to sink between those legs…

-Zee, wait. -Nunew called him and Zee turned to look at him with a bewildered expression.

-Be careful, I've never... - Nunew felt ashamed to confess it, but he was afraid that the alpha might get too confident and it would hurt him a lot.

-Me neither.

-…

Nunew didn't know what to say to that, was he joking with him?

-Don't play. -He said, offended.

-I'm not playing, seriously, it's my first time too. Nu, just because I'm an alpha doesn't mean I've been with a thousand omegas... Look, it's just complicated...

Nunew noticed that Zee was a bit frustrated, so he believed him, and wanted to encourage him to continue.

-… Go on. -He ordered.

Taking permission, Zee pushed him behind the knees, pulling his legs up.

With that bend he began to spread kisses across his thighs, biting the tender skin in between. He loved those thighs, in class he never got enough of secretly staring at them while Nunew sat beside him. He nuzzled the joint of his leg, as well as moving on to caress his still-clothed crotch, noticing that the fabric was soaked, both from his imprisoned penis and from his natural lubrication. So he knelt down again to remove the garment once and for all.

He stared at Nunew as he did so; he slowly pulled the edge of the briefs down and finally pulled them down, releasing a small cock that was already dripping with pre-cum. The rest of the briefs were removed in one go and he tossed them to the side of the bed, finally having his omega completely exposed to him.

Before Nunew could cover himself with his hands due to the shyness of being naked in front of someone for the first time, Zee now took him by the ankles to push them and completely open his legs.

Nunew from his place, only covered his eyes, but still felt the alpha's gaze fixed on that area, observing him in detail.

-Nu, your little thing is very wet.

Suddenly, Nu lowered his legs and slammed them shut, pinning the alpha's head against his intimacy.

- Don't call it that! - He exclaimed embarrassed, while Zee flailed around in agony.

Realizing this, Nunew spread his legs again and Zee began to cough.

-Nu, I would love for my death to be between your legs, but now is not the time. -He said as soon as he calmed down.

-You sound like my brother.

-Please don't mention it right now, it gives me the creeps... Now, if you'll excuse me... -Zee pushed his legs up again to make room for himself where he was.

Nunew covered his face again as well, but a spasm made him jump as he felt the alpha's warm tongue caress his penis.

- Zee! - He exclaimed in shock.

Seeing the reaction, Zee put the small cock in his mouth, thus beginning a slow blowjob, which continued as Nunew let out louder moans. Zee let go of the phallus and went further down, smelling the sweet aroma of the omega emanating from the small pink hole. Without thinking, he tasted it by passing his tongue over it, which caused the omega to startle again.

-Zee!!

Hearing him scream his name, he knew it was time, so he covered the hole with his lips, sucking on it, feeling the taste of the slick spill onto his tongue.

Nunew had grabbed the sheets with his nails, his body was arched, his nipples were erect and his legs were opening wider by inertia.

Soon he felt fingers stretching the edges of the hole, expanding it…

- Zee! What are you doing!? - He leaned down a little, startled by the embarrassment of the alpha looking at him in there, but what happened next made him fall on his back.

The stretching was because an invading tongue was now entering his most private cavity. He was breathing rapidly, nothing but his fingers and toy had entered there before, and now the alpha's tongue was there, caressing his inner walls. Zee pushed his tongue in as far as it would go, and then pulled it out, creating a rhythm.

- Ahhh! Zee! Nooo! -Nunew was lost between screams and moans, with his hardened cock hitting his abdomen, his eyes watery with pleasure and with his hands now pulling the alpha by the hair.

Zee stuck out his tongue for the last time, and replaced it with a finger, taking the omega by surprise again, who gasped at the new intrusion.

-It's delicious. -he said in a raspy voice, a drop of slick sliding down his chin as he slowly moved his finger inside the omega.

When he saw that Nunew had adapted to a single finger, he inserted another, which caused the omega to open his eyes widely.

- Does it hurt? - He asked him.

-… A little… -Nunew answered in a small voice and took a breath to speak again. -… Wait… Now…

Seeing him calmer, Zee performed the scissor movements inside the omega, being careful not to cause too much pain. While the reproductive area of omegas was adapted for that kind of thing, Nunew was a virgin and, if there was one thing he had read, it was that he had to prepare him well so that the pain would be minimal.

-… Y-you can put another one in. - Nunew told him.

He complied and inserted a third finger, moving them so that the entrance was stretched just enough. As he did so, he searched for something, and he knew he had found it when he felt the omega arch with a squeal.

-… That’s it, right?

He pressed again at the small bundle of nerves he had felt in there, resulting in Nunew writhing and screaming again. He realized that perhaps he had been too rough; he needed to be especially careful in that part. *

After a short stretch, now more slowly rubbing the prostate, he finally pulled them out, and that was Nunew's signal that it was the moment of truth. He watched to see what the alpha's next move would be, and saw that he was reaching for his bag on the floor.

From there he took out a box, and he knew what it was.

-… I brought some too. -He confessed, and Zee looked at him. -In the toiletry bag… -Nunew pointed to the nightstand, where the bag was.

Zee did as he said and leaned over to grab the bag and take out what the omega asked for. Sure enough, there was a box of condoms in there.

-Yim put them there. -He clarified. -… and I didn't take them out… I thought… something could happen and that's why…

-I know, Max practically reminded me to bring some… -Zee's expression turned to one of surprise as he inspected the box of condoms Nunew was carrying. -… Hey Nunu…

Nunew turned to look at him at the call, finding Zee staring at the box he had pulled out of his toiletry bag. Zee leaned over to him and showed him the little box.

-They are textured…

- What?! - Nunew pushed himself up with his elbows to get a better look.

-I think Yim wanted to make sure you have a good time. -Zee said mockingly.

-Let's use yours. - Nunew ordered indignantly. -I... I want it to be as natural as possible.

-I think the same. -Zee muttered, picking up his own and putting the bag aside.

Nunew watched as he settled back between his legs, as the alpha pulled down his pants along with his underwear, where the large erection sprouted. At the sight of it, Nunew felt a gush of grease pour out of his entrance, dripping onto the bed. He had felt that large thing in his hand that morning in the palace, but he hadn't really noticed it, and now it was there in front of him; thick, with a reddish tip, wet, the veins on his body standing out, and there was something else...

-I-I've never seen anything like that before. -He muttered.

- What thing? - Zee asked upon hearing it.

-That… -Nunew pointed to the base of the penis, specifically the slight bulge that was visible.*

That was what would expand and become the knot inside him.

-Oh… -Zee noticed what the omega was referring to, after all, omega penises didn't have that part, and neither did betas. The bulb was an anatomical area exclusive to alpha penises.

Looking back at Nunew, he saw that he was staring blankly at his phallus, and as he looked down, he noticed that his hole was leaking, leaving a large stain underneath. The image of the omega getting wet while lusting after his cock made him feel even more excited, to the point that his erection was already aching.

-Now, I'm going in...

Nunew screamed internally and covered his face again.

-Do it carefully. -He asked behind his fingers.

Zee was very aware of that; it was his top priority. So, he moved closer to him and slowly moved the head of his penis to caress the entrance from top to bottom, causing more liquid to come out... he couldn't deny that he was nervous too.

- Zee! Yes!

At the omega's cry, he aligned his head to be able to enter, took a breath and slowly entered...

-Ahhgmm. -Nunew covered his mouth when he felt it, that sensation was very different from everything he had felt before; it wasn't his fingers, it wasn't a dildo, that phallus was real, and he felt how the flesh that entered was warm.

Zee looked back at Nunew, who had his hands clenched in his chest and his mouth half open. He continued to thrust forward, until finally… He growled, and let his body fall, cornering the omega again, standing face to face.

-I-it's inside. -The alpha said near him, with a panting voice.

Nunew took him by the shoulders, a grimace of pain still on his face, so Zee decided to stay still for a while, until he verified that Nunew was okay.

At that moment, staying still was quite a challenge, the pleasure he had felt just by entering was impressive. It had always been him and his hand, but his hand was far from feeling like that slippery, hot, tight muscle cavity… He had heard that the omega body was addictive, but that seemed simply inexplicable to him.

Taking advantage of the proximity of their faces, Zee took the opportunity to kiss him, this time a careless kiss, between Nunew's sighs of pain and the saliva that ran down the corner of his lips.

-… You can move. -Nunew said as soon as their lips separated.

With the green light, Zee semi-righted himself again, moving out a little and then coming back in, and repeating this little by little.

-Damn... You're so tight... - Zee said between gasps, pushing himself off the omega's hips to move.

It seemed like his words had been magic, as he felt his cock tighten, at the same time a guttural moan left Nunew's mouth, and slick dripped down his balls, but thanks to that extra lubrication, Zee was able to increase the speed even more. Now, the pace had become faster, and Zee held Nunew's hips as he did so. Hearing the omega's soft moans with each movement increased his arousal, translating into increasingly rough strokes as he entered.

- Ahhh! -Nunew let out a loud moan due to the force of one of the thrusts, the pain was turning into pleasure and Zee decided to continue with that force, wanting to get more of those screams out of him.

Maintaining that speed, he leaned down and brought his hands to the omega's chest where he rubbed the tips of the nipples with his palms, barely creating a slight friction, but then he squeezed his breasts with them, to finish by pinching the buttons between his index finger and thumb, thus creating an overstimulation in the omega, who had already formed a pool of pre-seminal fluid on his abdomen.

Nunew was a bundle of sobs and sighs every time he was pushed against Zee's hips, causing a wet, obscene noise to mix with the sound of the wind outside. Zee growled as he gave him a hard thrust while pulling on his nipples, drawing a loud moan from Nunew as well. Then, he held him by the hips again, moving up to his waist. Nunew went from pulling at the sheets to holding onto the alpha's arms.

- Mmgg! Zee! - Nunew arched his back on one of the thrusts that hit his prostate, so he pushed his head back and wrapped his legs around the alpha.

Zee gasped, the omega's inner walls squeezing his cock so tightly that he was experiencing a very pleasurable sensation. To add further stimulation, he wrapped one of his hands around the hard cock that was hitting Nunew's belly and began to pump it. At the same time, he continued to move with speed, aiming for the spot that made Nunew vibrate.

It was then that, in one of the attacks, the omega could not take it anymore.

- Ahhh! - Nunew dug his nails into his arms, and splashed his abdomen and the alpha's hand with his own semen.

This excited Zee even more, and maybe it was instinct, or the fact that he was also on the edge, but he squeezed his nails against Nunew's hips, as if wanting to go deeper, faster.

- Zee! It's… so… deep. - Nunew's voice was already muffled, completely lost in pleasure. - I-I like it… Do it inside… Bite me… I want to feel you…

Those words were key, because Zee's control went overboard, and he came inside the condom. He wanted to give the omega what he so desired, so he could feel that hot liquid inside him along with his mark, but that wasn't possible yet. *

However, Nunew was in a daze, hearing only white noise, feeling the slight movements of the phallus still inside him.

Within seconds, Zee dropped on top of Nunew, pinning him down with his body, and Nunew hugged him with what little strength he had left.

Silence reigned for a few moments, until a shriek came from Nunew.

I was feeling something growing...

- It hurts…! Zee…! – He moved the alpha, who was startled, but when he realized what it was, he preferred to stay still.

-… I’m sorry… Does it hurt a lot?

Nunew gasped, tried to calm himself, filled his lungs with air and exhaled.

-Just don't move so much...

-It was the knot. -Zee said. -We have to wait for it to come down.

-It feels weird…

- Didn't I hurt you before? - Zee tried to look at him from the position he was in.

-I'm fine… As for you… D-did you like it?

Zee sensed a hint of concern in that question, after all, his insecurity wouldn't go away overnight. Before a verbal response, Zee moved a hand to Nunew's waist, caressing from there down the curve of his hip.

- Do you think I wouldn't like all this? It was more delicious than the dinners at the palace.

- Zee! - Nunew patted him on the shoulder, but with a smile.

- Ow! I'm serious. - Zee shifted at the blow, causing his pelvis to move as well.

-Ahhhh! -Nunew screamed due to Zee's movement.

- Sorry! -Zee returned to the position he was in before.

Nunew didn't say anything, he just rubbed the area he had hit and hugged Zee, caressing his back, and shortly after, he felt the alpha's chest, moving... Was he laughing?

-We're a mess, Nu. -The alpha said with a laugh. -We're literally stuck together and yet we're still fighting.

At this, Nu also started to laugh, now his laughter was the only thing that could be heard in the room. Until after a few seconds, silence was the only thing in the room again.

-Zee… Did you really never want another omega before? You know… how to… -Nunew broke the ice again with his doubt, afraid of making the older man uncomfortable.

-No… It's just that is complicated…

-I am here to listen to you… if you want to tell me… -Nunew continued caressing his back.

Zee thought about it for a moment, and finally, he felt like he really wanted to talk.

-It's not that I didn't want to... - He began, with some doubt in his voice. -Rather, I was scared.

- Scared?

-The man you met lying in that bed…

Nunew didn't understand... A man lying in bed? Did he mean the King? What did that have to do with anything?

-My dad was always very strict with me, sometimes a little paranoid. And that included my relationships… From a very young age he would say: “Zee, your partner must be the right one”, “Zee, you will be the next King, don’t disappoint me”, “Zee, you don’t accept just any omega”

Nunew was beginning to understand; perhaps it was only a few times that he had interacted with the King, but the part that Zee told him was credible, he was a strict man.

-When I became a teenager, it was worse, because that's when secondary genders become evident, and then he told me that omegas could be too flirtatious and I was too naive... I think that's when I started to notice that maybe I didn't meet the expectations to be the future King. The nobles didn't like me, and my father didn't want me to embarrass him.

Nunew had stopped his hands for a moment, pondering what he heard.

-Then, as I reached my teens, my father's words became harsher. He now told me that if I ever got an omega pregnant, I would become the disgrace of the family, and that I would lose my title as the heir if the omega was someone pretentious... He repeated this to me over and over again.

Nunew remained silent, staring at the ceiling, imagining the scenes Zee was telling him.

-I think things got worse when, towards the end of my teenage years, Max, Net and I started to be more rebellious, going out to bars and meeting people, risking the creation of rumours about us. But we were very young, we didn't care about that... and that's where I started meeting omegas...

- So, did you date omegas? -Nunew interrupted, interested in that.

-Yes, but that was all it was, I never had a serious relationship with them. I wanted to act as if the words my father had told me all my life didn't matter to me, and on our outings, I let myself be carried away by the flirtations of various omegas. At first it felt good, I felt like I was defying the rules... and I even earned many punishments from my father at that time for my rebellious attitude.

- But did he know…?

-No, I was rude and rebellious, but I never revealed to him that I was dating omegas, but I guess it's true what they say about parents noticing everything, because he reminded me of his words again. Still, I wanted to ignore it, and in my desire to escape from everything, I wanted to try to have sex with the omegas that were offered to me… But when the opportunity presented itself, my father's words echoed in my ears, and I began to fear that the condom would break, or that something would go wrong, and I wondered what I would do if that happened to me… The more I tried, the more those thoughts came back and tormented me.

Nunew tightened his embrace.

-Since then, I preferred not to have to face those moments anymore, and I would achieve that by avoiding having those kinds of relationships. Instead, I decided to focus on being a better heir, dedicating myself to my classes, to the military… I know that for Max and Net the change was also disconcerting, but they didn't judge me; in the end the three of us were becoming adults. It was like that for several years, until last year came…

Last year? Was it when the King fell ill…?

-My father started having strange symptoms and he tried not to notice, and now he told me that he hoped I would introduce him to a partner soon, because “it was time.” He said he trusted me to choose the right omega, and to be selective, but that was uncomfortable for me, and it was worse when he received the diagnosis that he had a brain tumor. When the news became public, he began to be harassed by family, nobles, and the media. Everyone asked me if I had a partner or a love interest, since I would soon be the new King. They talked as if my father was already dying…

Zee moved slowly, looking up at Nunew, who was completely immersed in their relationship.

-Nu, maybe my father put a lot of pressure on me, but that doesn't mean I hate him, I've never done that. People treated him like a dying man if he bothered me.

Hearing this, Nunew stroked his back again, while Zee rested his head on him again.

-From the beginning I said that I would take on all of my father's activities, or at least all that were possible for me, I wasn't going to leave him alone in that and I wanted to prove that I alone was enough to cope with everything that was coming... After so many years I didn't feel that I needed to have someone, so I simply rejected proposals from noble omegas, and also the flirtations of the omegas at the university. I decided to be alone. But the desolate atmosphere in the palace increased my nerves.

Nunew remained deeply serious, connecting dots in his mind, listening only to Zee's voice, because at that moment the wind could no longer be heard, it seemed like the storm had passed.

-Dad started attending his medical appointments with Mom, and they left me to be guided by Fae. But I saw the frustration in them, like when they received difficult news and Spades became rainy… Soon they started receiving requests for help for the fields because the rain affected the crops and also destroyed everything they already had. That didn't cheer Mom up any more. Mom cried and said that those were the first signs of the Queen's fall… My father's Ace was in charge of reinforcing the Spades army, but what's the point of having a kingdom covered on all sides if it's sinking inside…

How did Zee make things seem okay when in fact everything was falling apart? That was what was on Nunew's mind now.

-… The meetings with the nobles were terrible because they said that my coming to the throne would be useless if I didn't have a Queen to balance the kingdom with me. They said that if I was an alpha incapable of getting a mate, I wasn't even close to solving all the kingdom's problems.

-Still, you carried everything… -Nunew continued to pamper him, now with his cheek on his head.

-Despite everything, my parents said that they weren't going to pressure me into an arranged marriage, but that I should encourage myself to meet someone. But no omega sparked any interest in me, so there was no point in trying… Still, I promised to fix everything, I just didn't know how to do it.

Zee ended their relationship by staying silent, he had to go over everything that reminded him of how useless he was as an alpha to everyone.

Nunew kissed his head, wanting only to pamper him to take him away from his bad memories.

They stayed like that for a few more minutes, until their bodies were ready to separate.

-… The knot came down. -Zee pushed himself up with his hands to carefully stand up, kneeling between his legs. -I'm going to take it out.

Nunew ascended, and the next thing he felt was the alpha slowly pulling out of him, ending in a wet sound. It was a strange sensation, an uncomfortable emptiness after the time they had been connected. As he flipped, he saw Zee staring at where they had been stuck together.

- Hey! Stop looking there! - Nunew kicked and brought his knees together.

Zee chuckled lightly at this.

-I told you I wanted to see everything. -he said, and then he got out from between his legs and stood up.

-I'll go throw this away. -He said, taking off the condom.

Nunew stared at the ceiling, still processing everything he had just heard. Understanding the whole puzzle that made sense of Zee's oddities.

Zee soon returned, carrying a packet of wet wipes which he used to clean himself and Nunew as well -avoiding looking and touching too much as Nunew might still kick him- When he got into bed, Nunew rolled onto his side to face him.

- Why was I different? - He asked. - Besides… you weren't afraid to do what we just did.

-Maybe because when we first met, I didn't see you as a possible partner, remember? To me you were just a gossipy omega.

For Nunew it had been the same; when he first met him, he had only looked at him as a bully whom he wanted to get rid of. However, everything was much clearer to him now.

-Zee… I'm sorry for judging you so harshly that day… -Nunew remembered how he had jumped to insult him, being one more of the people who had pointed him out.

-Nunu, don't apologize. If you hadn't… maybe you wouldn't be with me today. -Zee took Nunew's hand to kiss it.

Nunew looked at him tenderly; it was true, every little thing was part of their history together. He smiled at the thought, and remembered more things as well…

-Now I understand why you were so good at making excuses to get out of a punishment, if you were a rebel. - He added with humor, tapping him on the chest.

Zee laughed in response.

-… And about the other thing. -Zee continued with his answers. -I wouldn't be terrified if… you know… I got you pregnant. You're the omega I want to have a family with. -Zee looked at Nunew's abdomen for a few seconds. -B-but that doesn't mean that I wish the condom had failed us… I'm just saying that if it were like that…

-I understand. -Nunew sounds to calm him down. -I think the same, you are the alpha that I want to have a family with. -Nunew moved until he was hugging his neck. Zee wrapped his arms around his waist and turned until he was lying down, bringing the omega on top of him.

They stayed like that for a while, now it was Zee who delicately outlined the curves of Nunew's body, still thinking about everything he had had to live through to get to that moment.

He turned to look at the clock in his room, noticing that it was close to midnight, and something that was on his mind occurred to him.

-Nu, do you want to get into the jacuzzi?

-… Now? -Nunew looked at him surprised, the jacuzzi was on the terrace, and it was late.

-It's hot water, it will help us relax.

-… It’s okay. - After all, Nunew wanted to make the most of his stay there.

-Okay. -Zee carefully placed him on the bed and got up and opened the door to the terrace. -I'll get it ready.

-Zee… Put some clothes on!

But Zee had already left. However, after a while he appeared again.

-Nu, come, I already filled it, you'll only feel cold for a while, then we'll get into the hot water and steam.

Nunew looked at him doubtfully.

-… It's the only place where you can go out naked without someone judging you.

-…-

-That's true... I'd better help you.

Zee made his way to the bed, where Nunew was already wrapping the sheets around his body before being carried by the alpha. As he stepped out, despite being wrapped up, the cold wave hit him; it was almost midnight and it had been snowing. Zee put him on a cot near the jacuzzi and they waited, watching it finish filling up.

-It's ready. Now let's go. -The alpha said as soon as the water reached the indicated limit.

Nunew thought that this would definitely be an unforgettable night. He got up with the alpha's help and left the sheet on the cot, receiving the cold wave directly on his skin.

- Zee! It's cold! - He complained, covering himself with his hands.

Zee in response, hugged him, infecting him with body heat.

-We couldn't run naked through the palace gardens, or my father would send the army to hit me on the buttocks with their weapons... Let's enjoy this.

Nunew suppressed a laugh at the comment. He had always hidden his body as much as possible due to his fear of being judged, but now he was out in the open, completely naked and with an eccentric alpha hugging him. As they pulled away, Zee helped Nunew into the hot tub, the sensation of the warm water being heavenly for the omega. Especially when Zee positioned himself behind him and he was able to slump over his body, stretching out his still sore muscles.

- Are you feeling better? - The alpha asked sweetly.

Nunew ascended, in the end it was true that it had been the best decision to get into the hot water. He soon felt the alpha arms wrap around his waist, hugging him, and placing his chin on one of his shoulders. Nunew took the opportunity to rub his cheek against his, letting out small laughs at the moment.

Zee then began placing kisses along his shoulder, not with any erotic intention, just his desire to show his adoration. He considered himself completely devoted to Nunew, the person he loved, with whom he would spend the rest of his life, and who would become his warm Queen.

-Nunu. - He purred against his shoulder, receiving a "mhh?" in response from the half-asleep omega. -I love you... Please marry me.

Those words opened Nunew's eyes immediately.

-Marry me, please. -The alpha repeated again, kissing his shoulder.

With the little strength he had, Nunew turned on his torso to be able to look at him.

-Zee… Really?

-I wouldn't joke about that... But don't take this as my formal proposal, you deserve something more romantic, and I don't have a ring here... I just couldn't help but say it... I want so much for you to marry me.

Nunew's eyes had already glazed over again. It was the third time during this trip, and all of them at crucial moments between them; from expressing their insecurities, the pain of their first time and now hearing the alpha's desire to unite their lives.

-Yes, I do want to. - He answered confidently, with the first tears coming out. Now he adjusted himself so he could kiss him in a better position, receiving at the moment the tender caresses of the alpha on his naked body. When he separated, he discovered that the alpha also had tears on his cheeks; he had not cried telling him his story, but he was doing so when he asked him to marry him, so he wiped the tears from his face and kissed one of them, the same one that had hit him one day. -… I love you too. - He finally declared, and he snuggled into the alpha's neck, receiving the warmth of the older man's arms as they wrapped around him. -And this is very romantic for me. - He whispered, sketching a smile.

-

-

-

-

-

-

Nunew walked through the palace corridors, trying to keep up with the woman who was leading him. For an older woman, she was going too fast, so much so that he had to quicken his pace to get close to her. In addition, he had decided to pair his suit with high-heeled boots that did not make his walk any easier.

They entered a dark hallway, decorated with pictures and more pictures of what looked like women… Women sitting in a pose with a sword at their side. He didn't want to autosuggest himself, but he was almost certain that the room where the event would take place was not in that direction.

Nunew slowed down, wanting to look more closely at the features of the framed women, but when he saw that the woman had reached the end of the hallway and turned to the side, he quickened his pace to avoid falling behind.

But when he arrived and turned around in the direction she had gone, he realized she was no longer there… Had she walked that fast all the way down the hall? He hadn't heard the door at the back open either.

Before he could walk again, he noticed that next to him there was another very large painting with the same characteristics as the others: A woman wearing an elegant and pompous blue dress, with a sword in her hand. Since that area was more illuminated, he identified that the woman was wearing a crown, and when he saw her face…

… It was that woman… or that thing he had seen… and terror filled him…

He felt a tingling sensation run through his entire body, he felt cold, and an annoying ringing in his ears was the last thing he heard as he lost strength in his legs and fainted.

-

Chapter Text

-Nu, why did you get so upset yesterday that you thought I was rejecting you? -Zee was arranging some things inside the suitcase on the bed, they were about to leave to return to the central city.

Nunew was sitting on the edge of the bed, his gaze fixed on his phone until he heard the alpha, whom he saw and looked down before answering.

-For an omega, the rejection of their partner is felt throughout their body. -Zee stopped what he was doing to listen to him. -My mother once told me that, and yesterday I felt it when I saw you lock yourself in the shower. An omega wants to be loved, but also desired. If we don't have both, it's like being just a piece of furniture for an alpha, or in some cases just a tool to have children, but knowing that the alpha will always go with other omegas. -He said this last in a melancholic tone.

Zee had now sat down next to him to hug him.

-Don't even imagine that I don't love you or want you, Nu.

-… Or maybe it was also something related to my heat cycle. – Nunew said with a giggle inside the hug.

- What? But you're not in heat… - Zee pulled away, looking at him curiously. - Or maybe I am… - Zee stood petrified for a few seconds, doing the math in his mind.

-No, but the last one was a bit irregular and I could have symptoms outside of my cycle… I think it was because of the stress of the trip and what a certain alpha was causing me when I arrived.

- Had I stressed you out?

- What do you think? – Nunew frowned at the question. – I think your presence made it lose control… – With that statement he intended to annoy the alpha, but a certain memory with a stuffed animal landed in his mind, making his eyes open wide.

- Nu?

-… B-but everything's fine, the important thing is that I'm better now and you love me.

The ringing of his phone interrupted them, and Nunew quickly picked it up.

-It's about time. -He said looking at the screen. -Yim sent me the link to the morning news, he says there will be a news story about us…

Nunew turned the screen, tuning the newscast in full screen.

At first, the banner read: “The prince and his mysterious partner: New public appearances.”

- Welcome to your morning newscast. The international press is abuzz with the latest public appearances of Prince Zee, who has been increasingly seen with a mysterious young omega. Here we too are wondering: Who is he and what is the nature of his relationship with the prince?

A series of photos began to appear on the screen, taken from a distance towards them, and with care taken so that they would not notice. Among these photos were some taken at the university and others at Arkonix.

-According to social media comments, the young man in question comes from the kingdom of Hearts and is at the University of Spades as an exchange student. Netizens have discovered that his name is Nunew Chawarin, he is younger than Prince Zee and is in the education area of the university.

At that moment, Nunew's private Cardstagram account appeared on the screen, followed by his Cardstagram profile picture (of him holding his cheeks and decorated with cute stickers) displayed in full screen.

-The two have been seen together on several occasions at the university and on what appears to be a romantic trip through the town of Arkonix.

Photos taken at the site filled the screen, especially the photo where Nunew's face can be best seen.

-Other comments say that they were also seen yesterday on the streets of Crystalbrook, could it be another romantic trip? The relationship seems to be getting more serious; however, the royal family has not yet issued a special statement.

Before returning to the studio, the various photos taken of the couple were shown again.

-The press and the public are still intrigued by this relationship. We will continue to report on its development. That's all for this note, don't forget to follow us on social media for the latest news and updates on the royal family.

-Damn, they don't rest. - Was the only comment Zee made in response to the news release.

-My parents don't know we're staying overnight at Crystalbrook. -Nunew said, and they both looked at each other in fear.

-

-

-

Nunew looked at himself in the mirror in the large room. In addition to his beautiful suit, paired with a white high-neck top as an undergarment, and his high-heeled boots, he had also had his hair and makeup done in the palace. He felt pretty, so he couldn't help but take out his phone and take photos in front of the mirror. However, he was interrupted by the sound of the door opening, revealing Zee, who peeked in to see him.

- Ready? - The alpha asked, approaching him.

-They told me that they will still pin the foundation's pin on me. -Nunew answered, looking up and down at how handsome Zee looked in an elegant suit, just as he had seen him on the news the first few days he arrived in Spades.

-I understand… You look beautiful. -He told him, while he stood behind him.

- Will you take pictures of me? - Nunew asked, surprising Zee. - I want to send them to my family.

-Of course. -Zee took out his phone, placing himself in a position that would capture Nunew at a better angle. -I hope that way your father hates me less.

-I already told you that he doesn't hate you. -Nunew said amused as soon as Zee finished taking the photos.

-I would if I knew about the night in Crystalbrook. -Zee commented quietly.

-Shhhh, he must not know anything about that.

In the middle of their conversation, the door opened again, now revealing the queen.

-Nunew, you look gorgeous, son. -She entered the room, wearing a beautiful long-sleeved blue dress, and heels that clicked as she walked.

-Y-your majesty, not as much as you. -Nunew straightened up as he saw the woman approach, he was still very shy with her despite the familiarity that was being granted to him.

-I certainly understand why my son loves you so much. And it is he who I have come to find, as we have things to go over regarding today's event.

-Okay, I'm on my way, Mom. -Zee said.

-They will come to place your brooch on you in a moment, Nunew, and Zee will tell you the protocol. Don't worry, we won't be long. - The Queen said before leaving the room again.

-I'll be back in a little while, Nu. -Zee told him, before leaving as well.

Nunew said goodbye to both of them and once again stood alone in front of the mirror… Oh, he had to remember to ask Zee for the photos.

Something that had been previously told to her was that there would be some media invited to make the issue of donations public. The foundation in question was intended to give aid to the sites affected by the floods and the losses that the countryside was experiencing in the midst of the crisis that Spades was going through due to the King's health. Therefore, it was very important for the Queen to contribute, as she felt responsible for the situation that the kingdom was facing.

And the fact that there were invited reporters meant that within minutes the confirmation of his relationship with Prince Zee, and his appearance together with him at the event would be going across the kingdom, or even beyond the kingdom. Finally, their relationship also represented a ray of hope for Spades.

That was what made him nervous, and at the same time, it would give him some peace of mind from the fact that he no longer had to hide.

His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the door knocking. Had Zee finished already? But instead, a woman, somewhat older than the queen, also elegantly dressed, appeared.

- Are you Nunew?

Nunew felt very nervous at the sight of the woman, he had never seen her before.

-Y-yes, it's me...

-Oh, I'm glad, could you come with me please? I need to give you your badges.

Nunew remained silent for a few seconds. They had told him that they would bring him the event brooch… Maybe the plan had changed. So, without thinking twice, he decided to obey the woman.

-Yes, I'm going there. - Nervous, he got up from his seat.

The woman left and he wasted no time in following her.

He closed the door carefully, looking around to see if there was anyone else, but he couldn't see anyone in the hallway. Seeing that the woman had already moved forward, he hurried towards her.

He saw that the stranger was wearing a dark blue dress that reached the floor, dragging him along as she walked. Her clothes were very elegant, so he wondered if perhaps she was a relative of Zee, or some other noble important to the foundation. He also noticed how she was wearing a sash across her body, which fueled his idea that perhaps she was a relative of Zee.

They walked through a few hallways, Nunew was beginning to feel strange, realizing that he could no longer see the service staff. He tried to keep up with the woman who was guiding him, but for an older woman, she was going too fast, so much so that he needed to speed up his pace to get close to her. Plus, his heels didn't make walking any easier.

They entered through an almost dark hallway, decorated with paintings and more paintings of what appeared to be women… Women sitting posing with a sword next to them.

He didn't want to be suggestible, but he was almost certain that the room where the event would take place was not in that direction.

Nunew slowed down, wanting to look more closely at the features of the framed women, but when he saw that the woman had reached the end of the hallway and turned to the side, he quickened his pace to avoid falling behind.

But when he arrived and turned in the direction she had gone, he realized she was no longer there... Had she walked that fast all the way down the hall? He hadn't heard the door at the back open either.

Before he could walk again, he noticed that next to him there was another very large painting with the same characteristics as the others: a woman wearing an elegant and pompous blue dress, with a sword in her hand. Since that area was more illuminated, he identified that the woman was wearing a crown, and when he saw her face…

… It was that woman… or that thing he had seen… and terror filled him…

He felt a tingling sensation run through his entire body, he felt cold, and an annoying ringing in his ears was the last thing he heard as he lost strength in his legs and fainted.

-

-

-

…new!

New!

He opened his eyes.

With the heaviness that his eyelids and body felt.

He was leaning against a chest with the minty smell he loved so much.

-…Nunu, you're awake. -Zee was terrified, and wrapped his body against his chest in a tight hug.

- Nunew, son! - exclaimed the queen, also worried.

Zee was kneeling on the floor holding him. Behind him was the queen and a few maids.

-Zee. -Nunew's eyes lit up as he looked at the alpha. -Zee… there was a ghost… -He remembered how he got there.

- Ghost? -Zee looked at him curiously, still with a worried voice.

-She… - Feeling his arm still heavy, Nunew pointed at the painting. -Zee, take me away from here…

-I think I know what happened. -The queen sighed, and turned to look at the painting that caused fear in Nunew. -However, there is little time left for the event to start. Nunew, dear. -She turned to look at the omega in the arms of her son. -We will talk as soon as the event is over, okay? I just ask you to relax, everything has an explanation.

Nunew seriously wondered if what the Queen was telling him was serious, in his mind there was no possibility of that having a logical explanation.

- Do you think you can make it down to the event? - Zee asked him.

-Y-yes… I just want some water… and I hope I didn't ruin my makeup. -Nunew felt worried about that, he didn't want all the effort in preparing to go out with Zee for the first time to be ruined.

-I'll take you to cool off a bit. -With that, Zee stood up, carrying him in his arms.

-Girls, bring something to drink to the room and call the makeup team, please. - The queen ordered the group of girls surrounding them.

They all responded affirmatively and quickly retreated from the hallway.

-Relax a little son, I'm going to delay the event for about ten minutes.

-Your Majesty, you shouldn't...

-Don't worry, it will only be a few minutes, in the meantime you calm down for a while. Everything will be fine, and then we'll talk, okay? -She smiled at him to reassure him.

-Thank you… -Nunew answered, holding onto the alpha's neck, who immediately took him back to the room.

-

When he arrived in the room, the makeup team was already waiting for him, and Zee left him on the chair where he had been before while he went to receive the jug of water that the service had come to deliver.

Nunew looked at his reflection in the mirror with some sadness, while the makeup artists took out their things to touch up whatever was necessary.

-Something more important than makeup is your smile, young Nunew. - One of the girls said as she looked at his face.

Nunew gave a slight smile upon hearing her, and looked at them through the mirror.

-I'm sorry I have to make you work extra.

-We are here for you, young Nunew, don't think about that. And don't worry, it will only be a few touch-ups to make you shine. -Another one of them spoke with tools to comb his hair.

-With your beauty, there won't be any need to do so much, right, girls? - That had been Zee, who was now handing a glass of water.

- Of course not! / Young Nunew is very beautiful / Of course not, your majesty. - They answered in unison.

That had been enough to cheer Nunew up, who felt much more comfortable with Zee's presence at his side while they finished fixing him up. In addition, shortly after, one of the Queen's assistants arrived with the little box containing the foundation's brooch designated for him.

-

-

-

As soon as the room was cleared, two omegas came in to clean and fix the mess that had been left, taking advantage of the solitude of the place to talk.

-Prince Zee brought young Nunew in his arms here, it's very romantic, I only dream of something like that. - The omega girl said while making the bed.

-If you faint here, you're just hoping to be carried out on a stretcher. -replied her partner, a male omega, who was sweeping and tidying the dressing table.

-At least they won't leave me stranded there... - She replied sourly. -... Tao, tidy up that dressing table, everything has to be perfect and we must hurry to leave young Nunew's things in Prince Zee's room.

-Miriam, we have time, the event has just started. -He complained.

-I don't know about you, but I want to prove that I'm capable of being fast and precise enough to be considered to be one of the Queen's next ladies-in-waiting.

- Do you think you can? - He asked, picking things up from the floor.

-That's why I'm always the first to raise my hand to serve the kings. - The girl answered confidently, then frowned as she turned to look at the boy. -... Although I think this time, you'll be the protagonists. But it doesn't matter, I'll try hard anyway.

- Because you said so?

- Isn't that logical? - The boy looked at her without understanding. She just sighed at the sight and continued explaining. - Until now, the Queen had always been an omega woman, but since he is now an omega man, it is logical that now his closest omegas are men, since they must do tasks, such as assisting him in grooming and dressing, and even in the cleaning needs of pregnancy and postpartum when that happens.

- Are you saying that I have a better chance than you of being elected?

-Not if you don't clean that dresser properly. -She made the bed, looking at him out of the corner of her eye. -… I heard that the Queen said that as soon as the engagement is official, they will speak with young Nunew so that he can choose his omega companions, so that will be his and his Jack decision.

- Does young Nunew already have a Jack? - The boy finished his task, collecting the trash in some bags.

-I don't know, I guess we'll find out soon, I just hope he's as nice and polite as him. But for now, we have our top-secret mission with Prince Zee. -The girl looked at her partner with joy, receiving the same from him. -We have to work hard Tao.

-

-

-

Nunew was more than a little nervous, now holding Zee's arm, walking towards the palace stairs that led down to the event hall. The Queen had already come down, and now it was their turn. As they approached the steps and looked at the crowd of guests, Zee placed his free hand on his.

-Calm down Nu, everything will be okay. -He told him. And maybe they had only been a few short words, but those words brought him out of his trance and reminded him that they were both in this together.

As they began to descend the steps, Nunew felt the weight of everyone's gaze on them, especially on him. He noticed how some people began to whisper to each other and the journalists invited to the back looked at each other in great surprise, anxious for the authorized moment to arrive to take photos.

Upon reaching the Queen, who was standing at the foot of the steps surrounded by guests, she began her welcome speech.

-Dear nobles and distinguished guests, I am honored to welcome you all tonight to our palace for this charity dinner that supports such an important cause for the situation of our kingdom. Before we begin, I want to thank you all for your presence and generosity, your support is essential for Spades to advance for the common good. I want to mention that my husband, the King, would not be able to join us at this time, as he is resting in his room. However, I am sure he will join us later to greet you personally. -After saying that, the Queen turned to them, making way for the long-awaited presentation. -I want to express my special gratitude to my son Zee, for the effort he has tirelessly put in since his father has been forced to forego some activities. His commitment to our family and to the kingdom is admirable. In addition, I am pleased to welcome Nunew, my son's boyfriend, who joins us tonight. Nunew, dear, I also welcome you to our family and thank you for being a part of my son's life.

Nunew gave a small bow to the Queen, and with that, he realized he was being watched more than before.

-Tonight, we celebrate not only the generosity of our guests, but also the unity and solidarity that unites us as a community. So, without further ado, I invite you to enjoy dinner and each other's company. Thank you again for your presence and support.

As soon as he heard the speech end, Nunew sighed inwardly, with the peace that this exhibition was finally over… Well, until he saw how the photographers came closer to document the beginning of the event. Then, Nunew had to wait a little longer to be out of focus, concentrating on smiling for the photos, which for the moment were just of the two of them and the Queen, and some that they took of just the two of them, which he was sure would go viral immediately.

When he finished, he felt his muscles could finally relax.

- How do you feel? - Zee asked, noticing this.

-I still don't feel real. -He answered with a touch of humor, making Zee smile.

-Let's go get something to drink.

They walked towards the tables, where the nobles had taken their places, while a few others chatted at other seats scattered around the room, taking snacks from the waiters who came in and out with trays loaded with food.

Nunew specifically approached to take one of the small brownies that were on a tray on the dessert table, and, when he got there, someone else took one as well, catching his attention. He focused his attention on it, realizing that it was a familiar face. It was the omega with the child on the day of the lunch at the club.

-Oh... Young Nunew, are you here for dessert too? - he said, noticing his presence. -I need some sugar right now.

-You are… - Nunew realized that he didn't know the omega's name, and he didn't remember his father's name well either.

-Mr. Adil's son. -Zee stepped forward. -Good evening, welcome to the event.

-Good evening. -he replied, looking at Nunew. -My name is Benz. I apologize for not introducing myself earlier.

-Oh, no, no. It's just that I could recognize it… -Nunew said.

-I see... I see that my father was right in the end, right? - He asked as he watched Zee hold Nunew by the waist. - Right now, he must be bragging to the omega ladies that he already knew.

Nunew looked down, somewhat embarrassed, while Zee smiled, not knowing what to answer.

-Well… At that time, we still didn't… -Nunew answered.

-… It happened later, and he said yes. –Zee interrupted, noticing Nunew’s nervousness. –…Nu, I see Joss with Max, I’ll go with them to discuss some matters, okay? –Zee interrupted, noticing that it was better to leave the omegas talking. Nunew nodded. –I’m leaving in the meantime, enjoy your meal. –Zee said to the other omega, before leaving.

Left alone, the older omega turned to Nunew again.

-I'm so happy for you. I had to silence my father when the rumors started, he gets very talkative.

-Thank you very much, we didn't expect those photos to cause such a scandal this time. -Nunew looked at the small sandwich in his hand, encouraging himself to resolve the doubts that were in his mind. -Excuse me... You are married and have a family, right?

Benz looked at him in surprise at the change of subject. However, he knew that Nunew was young, but he would soon take on a great position and, in addition, start his own family. It was normal to have doubts.

-That's right. I have three children and an alpha husband who is sitting at the table with the other nobles. - He said, looking towards a spot in the room.

-Three?! -Nunew was dumbfounded at the fact. Benz didn't look that old…

-The child I was holding in my arms on the day of the lunch was my baby, my youngest omega son. My oldest daughter is an alpha girl, and the second one, a boy, is an alpha too. That day they were on the tennis courts with their alpha father.

-… Three children… and two are alphas… - Nunew was still processing the information. - Oh gods, are you okay? - Nunew turned to look at him, and Benz burst out laughing.

-Don't worry, there's nothing abnormal about children. When they're little, alphas and omegas can be just as disastrous. It's up to me and my husband to make sure they grow up to be educated people.

-I understand… and… Was it difficult? - At Nunew's question, the older omega was once again astonished. -I mean being with a noble, being a male omega.

-I think everything is within the normal range… -He answered, receiving a look from Nunew. -There are still many nobles with prejudiced ideas, but I didn't have to live it like my mother did.

Nunew was surprised to hear him refer to him as “mother” again.

-He lived in a time when his love was still frowned upon. He says that the nobles believed that it was a relationship that wouldn't last because they didn't see a male omega as a partner, much less as an example for their children. But my brothers and I grew up being good people. Also, my father never allowed disrespect from alphas who looked down on him. And now it's normal to see him gossiping with omega ladies his age without being criticized.

-I see… -Nunew thought seriously about how they could now enjoy a better reality. -And… You openly call him mother…

-Well, he's my mother. He was the one who brought me into the world, fed me, and raised me, so I got used to calling him both ways. - The omega took a sip from his glass, which he had found on the table, watching Nunew process so much information.

-… This is all very new to me. Until a few months ago I was just a normal Hearts student and now… Zee and I are together, and I want to be a good queen, but also a good husband when he and I… - He thought for a few seconds. The conversation with Benz made him realize that at some point he would become a husband, so, embarrassed, he brought his hands to his cheeks. - Could it be that I'm dreaming?

-Young Nunew, you will do very well. -Benz called his attention. -Don't worry about the criticism of some nobles, some of them will go to the grave with their retrograde ideas, just be a good person.

Nunew snapped out of his drama at those words. If there was one thing, he was sure of now, it was that he would work hard for himself, and also for the future he wanted to have.

After finishing the conversation, Benz returned to his place at his table, while Nunew stayed a few more seconds processing the whole conversation. That was until the presence of another man, specifically an alpha, alerted him.

-Good evening, young Nunew, isn't it? - The stranger extended his hand to greet him, which Nunew took in response and nodded.

Having an unknown alpha around made him feel uneasy because of what had happened earlier with the stranger at the bar, but he had to show manners.

-Let me introduce myself, my name is Park, I am the son of Count Anomakiti. - He said with great pride.

-I have no idea who he is… -Nunew thought.

-Your presentation tonight was something I didn't expect at all, I didn't think Prince Zee would arrive with such a beautiful omega on his arm.

Nunew began to grow more alert, he knew how to recognize opportunistic alphas when he heard them.

-That's why I decided to come and greet you. I wanted to express to you in my own words that your beauty impressed me. I would also like to extend my invitation to visit the Anomakiti mansion whenever you wish. -He finished, taking her hand again with the intention of kissing it. An action that provoked a reaction of flight in Nunew, who quickly removed it and took a few steps back.

-T-thank you very much… but no, thank you. -He said, noticeably uncomfortable.

-Oh, I don't mean to be disrespectful or make you think I'm implying something...

-Your intentions are perverted in just a few words, Park. -Zee said, coming between them. -Please go back to your seat and stop bothering my boyfriend.

-… I'm beginning to wonder if he's really your boyfriend or if the crown has finally forced you to settle down. -Park answered, changing into a sour tone.

-You are no one to question anything about our relationship. - Nunew butted in, finally letting out everything that was on his mind. -Zee is my boyfriend, so please stop bothering me.

-Alright, message received. -Park showed his palms in surrender. -Anyway, it was nice meeting you young Nunew.

The man finally retreated, making Nunew feel at ease at last.

-I'm sorry I didn't notice him sooner, he's a real pain in the ass. -Zee apologized, taking Nunew by the waist again, while he rested his head on the alpha's shoulder.

-Don't worry, he's already gone… -Nunew looked up at him. -You left me talking to Mr. Benz on purpose, didn't you?

-I guess you were very curious about his story, right?

-A little. It's just that it's something surprising for me... Zee, he has three children and is married to a noble...

-I know. -Zee smiled at him. -I've seen your children at some events.

-I wish I had the patience he has to have two alpha children and survive in the nobility.

He laughed upon hearing Nunew's curious wish.

-You'll get it, Nu, you're still adjusting to all this… -Zee gently stroked his back. -Come, let's sit with the boys.

-

Arriving at the table, Zee pulled out a chair for Nunew to sit on, and he sat down next to him. Across from them, Joss and Max had been waiting for them.

-Good evening, Nunew. -Joss greeted him. -Excellent presentation, soon the kingdom will be celebrating.

- Are you a noble too? - Nunew asked Joss curiously.

-That's right, besides my business, I come from a noble family. -Joss replied, taking a sip of his glass. -But don't talk to me formally, I feel old and besides, you're my friend's partner.

At that moment, Max laughed looking at his phone.

-Record time, they are already making the news. -He told them, and then showed them.

On the phone screen was a news article from an online newspaper, where the photo of them with the Queen was the main image, along with the headline: “From speculation to certainty: Royal family welcomes Prince Zee’s boyfriend at charity dinner.”

Nunew took the phone from Max's hand to look at the story more closely. He left the site anyway and checked the trending topic about them on TuitCard, where they were the number one topic on the list. There were more stories in that trend, and it was true that the news was spreading at a very fast pace.

“Confirmed: Nunew Chawarin is Prince Zee’s boyfriend”

“The Omega of Hearts who won Prince Zee’s heart”

“Is there a ray of hope in Spades? The royal family presents Prince Zee’s boyfriend”

“Nunew Chawarin: The beautiful foreign omega who fell in love with Prince Zee”

-Today people woke up being creative. -Zee said, looking over Nunew's shoulder at the news.

- Will the news grow any further? - Nunew asked, and then a message from Net appeared in the notification window:

“Dude, the news is already going viral here 😮!”

-Congratulations guys, now prepare your answers because there are many questions coming for you. -Joss mentioned. -And also take care of yourselves because you are the topic at an international level and there will be people who don't like the idea.

Nunew turned to look at Zee, still feeling unreal about everything.

And, as if that weren't enough things to happen in just one night, Fae appeared, interrupting the group.

-Your Majesty. -Zee turned to look at her immediately. -The Queen needs to talk to you, it's about your father.

Hearing that, Zee tapped Nunew on the shoulder, who immediately handed the phone back to its owner and stood up to follow Zee. They left the room, meeting the Queen in one of the hallways.

-Mother…

-Zee, son, the doctors are treating your father right now. Apparently, while he was getting ready to come, he tried to walk to the bathroom and lost his balance and fell.

- What?! But… He didn't get hurt? Is he okay? And the assistant? - Zee freaked out and Nunew grabbed his arm trying to calm him down.

-It seems that there was no one with him. We have asked his medical assistant and he said that he was late in coming to help him because he could not find one of the necessary medicines. In any case, I do not see it appropriate for him to attend the event, so we will finish without him.

-Y-yes, you're right, mother. I'll go and let them know that my father is not in a condition to attend... Come on, Nu. -Nunew nodded and they both returned to the event room.

The event ended in this way, with the announcement of the King's absence due to major health reasons, and the farewell and new thanks from the Queen for everyone's attendance.

-

-

After all the hustle and bustle, Nunew was finally able to take a hot bath, put on the soft silk pajamas and finally fall exhausted on Zee's bed... Which was as comfortable as the alpha had described. In addition, from the alpha's bathroom, to those sheets, they were impregnated with the alpha's minty aroma, generating an explosion of serotonin within his being. That smell filled him with peace, tranquility and happiness.

The alpha was the one taking a bath at the moment, so Nunew sat on the bed and looked around, snooping around the room. The place was tidy, clean and very spacious. There was a very large window covered with blue curtains, also a couple of armchairs around a table, a closet, the dressing table, the canopy of the bed… Everything emitted luxury and sophistication.

At that moment, the door rang. So, he got out of bed, feeling that soft carpet against the soles of his feet… and he opened it, it was the omegas who had prepared the room.

-Good evening, Young Nunew, Prince Zee sent us to bring you this gift. - The girl said, referring to a small basket of chocolates that her companion was carrying.

-Thank you. -Nunew took the gift, looking at it with great curiosity.

-Prince Zee is very fond of you. He told us that the gift is because he must be feeling exhausted after his first day at an event here, and he wants to cheer you up. - The boy mentioned.

-Thanks again, guys. -Nunew smiled at them upon hearing that.

-You're welcome, we're waiting for you in case you need anything, young Nunew. - The girl said again.

After finishing the conversation and returning to bed with the sweets, Nunew just waited for Zee to come out of the bathroom.

Soon, the alpha came out wrapped in a bathrobe, and looking at the scene, he smiled.

- Do you like them? I didn't know which ones to choose so I decided to have several types of chocolate.

Nunew, unable to feel any more tenderness, stood up again to go straight to hug the alpha, and after that, kiss him with little chastity. After all, they had already leveled up.

-Hey, remember that I'm naked under this robe and you must be too tired to tame the friend down there. -Zee told him after ending the kiss.

Nunew laughed at Zee's comment and walked away, taking him up on his word.

-You're right.

-Damn, I was hoping he'd want to tame the beast. - Zee thought.

Nunew's phone rang on the mattress, so he climbed back into bed to see who it was, while Zee changed into his pajamas. When he checked, it was Yim, so he quickly answered.

-Hi Yim…

[Nu, have you seen that the news is going viral? Everyone is talking about you.]

-Yes, we already saw it, I just hope that on Monday we can go to class calmly.

[You will be the Nu star, but don't worry, we will be your temporary secret service.]

Nunew smiled at what Yim said… until…

[Also, did you see how they use your profile picture on Cardstagram for news? Imagine if in that picture you were wearing a tiny bikini, everyone would say that Prince Zee got a really good look on you.]

- Yim!

-You're right… -Zee was now sitting next to him, and had heard that.

[You have to upload a sexy photo when you open the Nu account. Everyone should know that Prince Zee only likes premium quality because some sluts are screaming.]

-Yim!! -Nunew was now bright red, he definitely couldn't imagine himself wearing such a thing and it was obvious that Yim had been looking at people's comments for a long time.

[What's more, I'll be wearing a thong too...]

-Yim… -Zee took the phone now. -I think the photos of Nu wearing his outfit today will be enough. If you guys appeared in your underwear, they would say you are easy.

[… You are right, Your Majesty. - Yim had paused beforehand, thinking about the situation. - We are fine people; we are not whores.]

-T-that's right Yim. -Zee answered, almost choking upon hearing the last part, and handed the phone back to Nunew, who was still covering his face, embarrassed by Yim's words.

-Tomorrow we will see what happens Yim, for today I am very exhausted

[So, see you tomorrow, Nu, we have to go shopping and you have to tell me how your day went.]

-That's right, good night Muyim.

Nunew hung up, and after a sigh he looked back at Zee.

- Are you going to buy thongs? - Zee asked, resting his chin on Nunew's shoulder.

- No!

-

-

Nunew had re-entered that corridor, but now following the Queen and with Zee at his side with an arm across his shoulders. The Queen was the one who asked him to go with her before leaving. So now the three of them walked through the passage full of paintings, and since there was more light, he could see better that these women had crowns, understanding who they were about.

-Zee, have all the Queens been omega females? - He asked in a low voice.

-Yes, in the case of Spades. -He answered. -It is believed that omegas bring greater blessings to the kingdom, however, there are cases like Clubs, where there have been beta queens.

The door in front of them opened, drawing their attention. The Queen was opening the door at the end of the hallway where Nunew had passed out the night before.

-This is where she wanted to bring you last night, isn't it? - the Queen asked, looking towards the place where the painting was hanging.

Nunew nodded, afraid to look at the painting behind them. Zee tightened his grip as they entered the room after the Queen.

As he crossed the threshold of the door, Nunew found himself in a large room filled with luxurious decorations, and at the back, two display cases in which two crowns lay on their respective pillows. In front of them, there were two other elongated display cases, each containing a sword.

-Welcome to the crown room, Nunew. -The Queen said, approaching the display cases. -Come, come closer.

Zee gestured for him to approach the Queen, and with some trepidation, Nunew complied. The Queen was facing one of the crowns as soon as he reached her.

- Can you repeat what the woman told you last night, please?

Nunew looked at him doubtfully, trying to understand what was happening.

-She told me to go with her to give me my badges… -He answered. -I went because I thought she was talking about the brooch.

-Well, Nunew, this will be the crown that will be placed on your head, it will be your greatest insignia. -She said looking at said object.

Nunew looked closely at the crown; it was a masterpiece to anyone who looked at it, with a sterling silver base with small Spades engraved on it, and, in the central part, surrounded a blue velvet, two crossed swords made of white gold and covered with diamonds and sapphires. Surrounding it were also different arcs and curved lines, covered with small diamonds.

- It's beautiful, isn't it? Maybe now you can recognize it in the pictures in the hallway, this has been the one of every Queen who has had Spades. - Nunew continued to look at her in amazement. The Queen now turned around to approach one of the sword display cases. - And this, is the Queen's sword.

Nunew now looked at the artifact; it was a very large sword, with a slight curve, and with a circular guard, on which the coat of army of Spades was engraved. It could also be seen that its hilt was made of some expensive material, and with a handle decorated with blue stones of lapis lazuli and obsidian.

-This is the sword that all those Queens have wielded, some of them out of necessity to protect this Kingdom. -The Queen explained. -Nunew, the Queen of swords is a Queen who imposes with her wisdom, and also who protects the kingdom with her strength and bravery… And the one you met yesterday, was Queen Apinya, Zee's grandmother.

Nunew turned his head towards Zee, who was also surprised.

- My grandmother…?

-More specifically Zee's Great-Great-Grandmother, she was killed in an attack on the palace.

Hearing that, Nunew's eyes snapped open, feeling a chill run through him.

- When I arrived here, she appeared the day before my wedding with Zee's father. However, the fact that she appeared in front of you so soon is what I find somewhat disconcerting. - The Queen had a worried expression. - I decided to interpret her appearance as an approval to take over, but in your case, there is still no official engagement…

-Mom, what are you thinking? -Zee asked when he saw her.

-Maybe this is a sign, son. -She answered, turning to look at him. -Maybe it's a sign that Spades urgently needs the coronation of the new Queen.

Nunew, in their midst, then understood what the Queen wanted to tell him, and it filled him with fear.

-I think that this week it will be necessary to introduce Nunew at the meeting with the nobles in parliament. In addition, it will be a good opportunity for him to begin to familiarize himself with the meetings.

Nunew turned to look at Zee, who reached out to take him by the shoulders again.

-Mom, do you think it's necessary now?

-F-for my part, it's fine. -Nunew hesitated. -Zee, it's my duty too… and I'm scared, but I'm available.

-… I will be by your side all the time Nu. - Zee answered upon seeing the omega's determination.

-Then it is decided, Nu, we will wait for you here this week to prepare you before the meeting. - The Queen declared, in front of the nervous boys.

-

-

-

In the afternoon Nunew went out with Yim as they had agreed, they had to do some shopping before returning to school. It was there that Nunew noticed the first signs of the news that had spread among all the inhabitants of the kingdom.

As he walked there were many eyes on him; trying to identify him, murmuring, looking at him strangely... Even when he entered a cafeteria to get something to eat, he saw how the waitress was surprised to see him.

-Don't worry about all of them Nunew, they still don't know how to treat you, this news is very shocking for everyone. -Yim said taking a spoonful of his slice of cake.

- Do you think it's worse at school? - Nunew asked, looking at the dessert on his own plate.

-Of course. - Yim ate calmly, while Nunew was disturbed, which led Yim to speak to him in a firmer manner. - Nu, this kingdom has experienced many misfortunes since the fall of the King, and the people had lost hope when your prince said he would rule alone. Believe me, the news about you makes everyone very happy... well, except for some bitches who thought they had hopes of conquering the prince. So, show pride because this kingdom loves you.

Nunew looked into his friend's eyes, thinking of everything from a bigger perspective. His arrival would bring balance to the royal equilibrium, and taking the crown would bring a new era of prosperity to that kingdom. Even the cold he was beginning to perceive in the air that day was a sign of the misfortunes the kingdom was experiencing.

At that moment he felt his phone vibrate and he quickly checked what it was about; it was a tag notification on Cardstagram, specifically one from Zee. He opened the app and the notification took him to a post on Zee’s account: it was pictures of them playing in the snow during the trip to Crystalbrook, he swiped through the photos and at the bottom was one of the two of them together, where Zee is holding him in his arms. The post was already shocking enough on its own, but Zee had proven that it could be more so with what he had written in the description:

“I love you❤”

Nunew covered his mouth in surprise, because among all the photos on Zee's account related mainly to the crown, Zee had posted these, which quickly increased in interaction.

-Oh my God. -Yim was also holding his phone, looking at the post. -This man has made a clear message to the kingdom, it is not so normal for a member of royalty to show so much about their relationships and he did it, have you seen his story?

Nunew hadn't noticed that, so he quickly went to open the story and found a small clip of them playing in the snow with a romantic melody in the background, and where Zee has his back to the camera as an act of not making the moment in which they share a kiss too explicit.

-Nu, have you already told him if you'll marry him? Because it's forbidden to say no to him.

- Muyim! - Nunew exclaimed, trying to hide his smile. -… He knows it's a yes. - He whispered at the end.

He turned his attention back to his phone, and with a deep sigh, decided it was time to no longer be a mystery. He went to his own account and set the new account settings to public, then returned to Zee's post and replied. His response was simple, but the product of his shaking hands:

“I love you too babe❤”

He set his phone down on the table and felt his heart pounding against his chest, afraid to check the number of notifications he was surely receiving. He looked at Yim's face, and realized he had already seen his response when he saw his mouth open in surprise.

- Nu! - Yim looked at him in astonishment. - Are you sure?

-In the morning I hid old posts that I didn't want to be seen publicly… So yeah. -Nunew shuddered in his seat.

He had no regrets. He was afraid, yes, but he wanted their relationship and position to be clear, after all he never wanted to be an omega that an alpha kept hidden from.

He finally checked his phone, finding a ton of notifications and a message from Zee reminding him again how much he loved him.

-

Chapter Text

In the room, the only sound was the movement of the water, and the cause of that was the two naked bodies in the bathtub; Nunew delicately soaped Zee's hair and then went down to wash his back with a light massage.

Relaxing was what they needed most at that moment, since they had had a long week… Well, the week wasn’t over yet, but it had already been exhausting enough for both of them due to the changes that the officialization of their relationship entailed for both of them, especially for Nunew, who faced changes that he never expected to receive in his life in relation to people and their way of treating him. He had stopped being just another exchange student and had become “young Nunew” or sometimes “your excellency” for teachers and students. With exceptions, since he had also had an incident in the cafeteria, where he bumped into another omega and she answered him in a very rude way: “don’t feel so important”, a phrase that was heard by a teacher who was near them and they pressured her to apologize to him. Nunew accepted the apology, but he didn’t want to earn the hatred of other classmates either, however, Yim had told him that would be inevitable, and he was quite right.

Zee arrived later that day, and upon hearing what had happened, gave him the coat he was wearing.

-I've never been one to use my position to impose myself on others, but I don't like it when people disrespect you either. - He told him as soon as he put the coat on he.

The hours after that, Nunew spent hugging himself during classes to smell the alpha. Also, since the golden insignia of Spades was on the chest of his coat, it made his presence more imposing to others. Likewise, the continued cooling of the weather made it very opportune for him to need that warmth.

And what about Zee? Well, the stares were quite invasive, as there was also a lack of comments from people in parliament about his previous statements, such as: “Your Majesty, didn’t you say you didn’t want to have a partner?”

So, after a few hectic days, the day of the meeting with the nobles arrived, and since Nunew had finished his classes a few hours early, they decided to go straight to the palace to relax for a while before starting to get ready; starting by taking a bath together at Zee's insistence.

- Have you checked to see if I have lice? - Zee interrupted the peace of the room.

- What? -Nunew stopped what he was doing, to look from the side at the alpha in front of him.

-One day you treated me like I had lice, and I assured you that I bathe very well. -Zee replied, turning back slightly. -But now you are bathing me.

Nunew frowned before answering.

- Yes? Well, I found some. -Nunew gave a small tug on the alpha's hair.

- Nu! -Zee exclaimed.

-You started it. -Nunew said, putting his arms over his shoulders and resting his chin on the alpha's head, hugging him.

Zee reciprocated by turning his torso slightly to rest one cheek on Nunew's chest.

-I'm happy if Nunu bathes me. -he said in a childish voice, rubbing his wet cheek against him.

- Maybe I'm spoiling you too much?

-No, it's not much yet. -The alpha answered, leaving a kiss in the center of the omega's chest.

The two laughed and continued hugging for a while longer. Until Zee moved from his spot to stand behind the omega.

-Come on, it's time for me to soap you up. -Zee told him, taking one of the bottles of shampoo near the bathtub.

-Be careful not to touch too much.

-My hands move on their own, Nu.

-Uh-huh.

-

-

The moment of relaxation ended as soon as they had to get out of the bathtub to get ready for the meeting.

-Hey, where are you touching me? -Nunew was entering the room across the way, with Zee walking very close to him, both wearing only their bathrobes.

-Look, those aren't my hands. -Zee raised both hands and crossed them across Nunew's sides so he could see them. -They're free, it's not me.

- Zee! - Nunew exclaimed, blushing as he realized what was touching him at that moment. - You act like a hormonal teenager.

-It's normal after an alpha tasted the nectar of the sweetest peach in the world.

Nunew, hearing that, turned around completely, raising an eyebrow in total bewilderment.

-I heard it somewhere. -Zee excused himself, looking to the side.

-… Where? -Nunew questioned him and looked at him suspiciously. -In biology classes they wouldn't say something like that.

-No… because maybe I heard it from an acquaintance once… -Zee continued avoiding his gaze.

- Mmh? … - Nunew followed Zee with his gaze, crossing his arms.

- It was Net's!

-It was to be expected. -Nunew snorted and then let out a chuckle, carried away by how funny the whole thing seemed to him.

Zee took advantage and wrapped his arms around his waist, paying attention to him.

-Sorry, I won't say anything that you find unpleasant...

-No, no, I just thought it was funny. - Nunew moved away from him a little to look at his face. Alphas were sometimes like pubescent teenagers, but he couldn't be called innocent either, much less with what was going through his mind at that moment. -Zee… There's something I want to try… - Nunew moved closer to Zee's face, directing his gaze towards his mouth.

Zee seemed mesmerized by Nunew's voice alone, watching his lips pronounce the words in such a tempting way. With that, his instincts took over and he captured the omega's lips with his own, causing him to moan in surprise. Maybe it hadn't been such a good idea to insist on bathing together, because seeing and feeling the omega's naked skin next to him for so long had only caused him to lose control.

Nunew was already getting carried away by the kiss, however, he didn't lose focus of his newly discovered interest, and, while the alpha was lost in kissing him, he slowly lowered his hand down the older man's torso, reaching the knot of his bathrobe...

But the ring of his phone rang, breaking the atmosphere and also making them both curse internally.

They reluctantly parted.

The two sighed because they were going to be late for the meeting anyway if they continued like this.

Nunew stepped aside to grab his phone and see who it was.

- Yim is here! - He exclaimed as soon as he checked his phone.

-… I'm starting to doubt whether it was a good idea to accept his coming… - Zee murmured.

-You know that Yim has been my protector all these days of changes, I need his support before facing more unknown people. -Nunew said approaching him again.

-… You're right. -Zee hugged him again, this time only with the intention of showing him her support. -Then I'll go get dressed in one of the adjoining rooms, I left my things there so you two can be comfortable here.

-If you want, I can get dressed in the bathroom... It's quite big. - Nunew told him as they separated.

-Of course not, Nu, my duty is to make you comfortable, okay? I'll leave you my room and come back when I'm done. -Zee left a kiss on the omega's forehead before leaving.

-

After a few minutes of waiting, Nunew peeked through the door, Yim had told him through a message that the palace service had already received him at the entrance and were already on their way to the room. So, it wasn't long before he saw him peeking down the hallway surrounded by two female omegas and two male omegas... who seemed very excited talking to him.

-… But they are all omegas? Don't tell me that only omegas work, that's unfair. -Yim was telling them.

-Oh, no, it's not like that. -One of the girls answered. -In fact, most of the staff are betas, but we omegas are the ones who serve the kings, Princess Anne and now young Nunew most closely.

-So does Prince Zee, but he has betas and alphas too. -One of the male omegas said.

- Yim! - Nunew exclaimed with his hands on his waist as he was closer to him.

Hearing this, the four boys immediately lined up firmly in front of him.

-Forgive us for the delay, young Nunew. - One of them apologized.

-Nu! -Yim ran to grab him by the arm. -I'm here. It took us a while, but this place is huge.

-It's okay guys, no need to apologize. -Nunew said to the omegas. -Thank you very much for bringing him, I hope he didn't give you any trouble.

The boys said goodbye and Nunew walked back into the room with Yim.

-Woa! This is your boyfriend's room? - Yim looked in awe at the majesty of the bedroom.

-Yes, he'll be getting ready in another room in the meantime. -Nunew walked over to the bed, where he had left several clothes. -Zee and the Queen gave me clothes for the meetings… It's not very comfortable for me to be receiving things, but I can't just refuse, I don't have anything useful to wear.

-Nunew, one day soon you will stand up for this kingdom, accepting a few clothes is nothing compared to that. -Yim firmly communicated the same fact that Zee had told him before. Nunew understood again. -So, let's not waste time, we have to make you look powerful for those wrinkled old men.

Nunew smiled, that was the motivation he knew he needed at that moment.

-

-

Once it was ready, Nunew looked at himself in the mirror, satisfied with the result; in reality, it was nothing special. They had opted for black dress pants and a black top, and a pink cropped blazer.

-Hey, shouldn't you be using the kingdom's color already? - Yim asked while fixing his hair.

-The King said that until I am formally Queen, and before that happens, everyone must respect my roots.

At that, the door opened, and Zee entered, also dressed semi-formally.

-Hello again, Your Majesty, Nu is now ready to fight the sour old men of parliament.

-Hi Yim, I see you've done a great job. -Zee looked tenderly at how pretty Nunew looked.

-Of course, I train Nunew for everything.

As Yim answered, the queen appeared at the door, apparently following her son.

- Are you ready? - She asked upon entering.

-Your Majesty, good afternoon. -Yim greeted her with a bow.

-Good afternoon Yim, I'm glad to meet you. Nunew told us that you are his best friend and that he trusts you completely.

-I take care of and help Nunew in any way I can, your majesty. - The omega said upon hearing the compliment.

- So, it's time to go? - Zee asked his mother.

-That's right, Fae and the driver are not waiting, son.

Nunew swallowed hard upon hearing that, he was now only a few minutes away from the wolf's mouth, but Yim's hands on his shoulders, and Zee's gaze, reminded him to breathe slowly.

-

-

Entering the parliament meeting room, Nunew felt his legs wobble as he walked, thank goodness he had opted for some flat formal shoes or Zee would already be lifting him off the floor. He also had his hands intertwined, because the trembling was replicated right there. At that moment, he felt the warmth of Zee's hand rest on his shoulder, as if to give him strength. He turned to look at him and smiled, and the alpha did the same. Likewise, he felt a small touch on his arm, finding himself there with Max, from whom he managed to hear in the form of a whisper a "Don't be afraid of them”, which made him feel more confident because, although outside that room they had had dramatic, funny and not so funny moments, finally he also had Max's support.

The Queen sat at the head of the table, and Zee took a place to her right, pulling out a chair next to him for Nunew to sit in, and in turn, Max took a seat in the space next to Nunew.

As soon as Nunew blinked, the Queen had already begun to speak, starting the meeting.

-Good afternoon, distinguished nobles. Thank you for your presence at this special meeting to discuss issues that concern the future of our kingdom. Personally, I feel very happy today, as what makes this day so special is that I have the pleasure of introducing you to the person who will soon become part of my family in a formal manner, and not only that, but he will also be working hand in hand with my son Zee in the task of leading this kingdom.

As soon as the introduction was said, Nunew felt the sharp gazes of those nobles fixate on him; gathered there were mainly older alpha men and women.

-It's a pleasure to finally meet you, young master… - One of the nobles, old, gray-haired, and with a penetrating look, dared to speak first, starting with a mocking tone in his voice.

-Nunew Chawarin Perdpiriyawong, sir, that is my name. Please excuse me, I am not yet familiar with the noble families of Spades. -Nunew answered with a marked seriousness, earning a small smile from both alphas at his sides. Especially from Zee, who, upon hearing him, remembered one of the reasons why he fell in love with that omega; his peculiar way of facing those who want to disrespect him.

-Nunew is a very nice boy, I had the pleasure of meeting him before. - A woman spoke among them, it was Duchess Malee, whom Nunew had already met at the club.

-I see. -The nobleman said again. -Then let me introduce myself, Mr. Nunew, I am the Marquis of Spades.

-But then, young Master Nunew, you come from Hearts, don't you? Did you consider that you were seriously associating with someone who has a duty to his people just as Prince Zee does? -This time it had been another alpha noble, who had uttered those words with the intention of pointing him out.

-Count Anomakitti, the reasons why Nunew and I fell in love are completely outside my duty in this kingdom. -Zee interrupted. -I must also tell you that when we met, Nunew did not know that I was the prince.

…Nunew was stuck in the “Anomakitti”, feeling his stomach churn as he recalled the unpleasant alpha from dinner. He could confirm that unpleasantness ran in the family.

-My son is absolutely right, Count, they did not fall in love thinking about how they would carry out their duties in the future.

-Forgive me, your majesty, but it seems to me that your son should have considered it. After all, he cannot bring an unknown omega to exercise such an important position as that of a Queen. We do not even know what kind of family he comes from, what his education has been like, and even if he is medically healthy and has all his vaccinations.

Nunew felt like something inside him was going to burst if he didn't respond to that.

-My family is exceptional, Mr. Count, I come from a middle-class family from the central city of Hearts, we are not rich, but I have been educated with the best values and principles, so much so that my decision was to study education, because it seems to me that something very essential in people is precisely to have enough education to speak with information in hand, and not only from ignorance, and thanks to my performance I have been able to achieve great things, such as being part of the great University of Spades. And about my vaccines, fortunately I have them all, including an extra vaccine against rabies, because I thought I would need it at some point. - Nunew did not know where all that talk was coming from, but he saw how the count's mocking smile fell and he felt proud of himself.

For his part, Max held back his laughter as he looked at the count, and Zee looked at Nunew with pride, not failing to notice the omega's trembling hands on his legs.

One of the noble female alphas laughed as soon as Nunew finished his answer, drawing the attention of those present.

-I'm glad to see that Prince Zee has found someone who shares his interests. I dare say they're a perfect match.

-I share your opinion Lady Lili, since my son has been with Nunew I have only seen his happiness grow; as a mother, that fills me with joy, and as a Queen, that gives me the best of omens for our kingdom.

-I think the same. -The Marquis spoke again. -From what I see, Prince Zee has found an omega with the same temperament as him.

-For now, I am personally glad to know that the King is feeling better, he is fortunate that he receives such effective medication. - The Count said with a subtle sharpness in his words.

-That's right, Count. My husband has shown great stability in recent days. The doctors, the staff and we have worked hard to see him get back on his feet. - The Queen explained.

-I'm glad, Your Majesty. He is still the head of our kingdom after all. I believe that Prince Zee and Master Nunew will not take office yet, will they? It would be irresponsible of you to leave the kingdom as soon as their exchange period is over, wouldn't it, Master Nunew?

Nunew hardened his gaze upon hearing those words, it seemed that the topic of his exchange period about to end was an excellent excuse to try to discredit him.

Max looked at the man very seriously, watching the desperation and annoyance that was pouring through his facial expressions.

-It would also be irresponsible to turn your back on your studies, wouldn't you say, Count? - Zee replied. -Nunew is still a student, but as you can see, he has also taken the time to be here with us this afternoon.

-With all due respect, Count, these are internal decisions of the royal family. But I can assure you that I will put all my effort into the kingdom, just as my studies are also important. - Nunew interrupted.

-I agree with Nunew, Count, future planning is something that is first discussed within my family. However, as soon as decisions are made, you will be notified. Also, I must remind you that this meeting is just intended to present him, and to look for the best future for our kingdom, therefore, we must move on to the next topics pertinent to this meeting.

-

-

-

The door to Zee's office opened, letting the two alphas and the omega rush through, making sure the door was closed behind them.

Standing there, Zee hugged Nunew, who was still going over everything that had just happened at that meeting.

-That was impressive Nu. -Zee told him, and then let him go.

-If it weren't for the fact that Zee might hit me, I'd hug you too. -Max said. -Why were you so nervous if you were going to respond like that? You burned more than one.

-Well, I… I was thinking about how Yim told me that they all looked at omegas as useless… -Nunew articulated his words slowly, still ordering his thoughts after having been in such a crushing atmosphere. -… and I also remembered how I answered Zee the day we met… I wanted to bring back that courage with which I did it.

Max burst out laughing upon hearing that.

-But you were less nice to me. -Zee pouted as he watched him answer that.

-Because at that moment I only saw you as a bitter alpha, not as an old alpha with power. - Nunew told him.

-And those are just the most important nobles, Nunew, you will meet even more nobles during the events. - Max interrupted. -But don't worry, these are the worst, they are the ones who hate Zee the most.

Nunew sighed, slumping down on Zee's chest. The advantage was that he had already analyzed what those Max classified as "the worst" were like.

-

-

-

As soon as they returned to the room, Nunew went straight to throw himself on the bed, throwing his shoes to the side and spreading his arms out, seeking to relax.

Zee immediately sat next to him.

-We've already been through the hardest part, and you did excellent, Nunu.

-… I feel like the parliament food turned in my stomach. - The omega answered, rubbing his abdomen and sitting down.

- Do you want me to ask Fae to get something from the infirmary?

-… No, it will pass, I'm just still processing everything.

-Nu did very well, so it's time to relax and clear your mind. -Zee said, starting to massage his shoulders.

Nunew closed his eyes, letting the alpha's hands squeeze his tense muscles. However, as the alpha's fingers moved down his back, he remembered that desire that had him restless earlier.

-Zee. -Nunew suddenly turned around. -… Maybe I do want something. -Nunew stumbled over his words, and turned to the alpha, who he took by surprise by kissing him.

At first, Zee was extremely surprised. He didn't expect Nunew to go from being stressed to coming on top of him so quickly. However, it didn't bother him at all and he let himself be carried away by the omega's kiss... At least until he felt a hand squeezing his crotch, which made him jump and break the kiss immediately.

-Zee… I'm stressed. -Nunew looked down at where he was playing.

-N-Nu, that's not a stress ball...

-I don't mean to be... Weren't you very brave to tease me with this before we left? -Nunew deepened his voice, and increased his caresses on the fabric of the pants. - You don't want to give it to me anymore? You told me that he gets very happy when he thinks about me.

That had been enough for Zee to feel his cock harden under the fabric at the omega's caresses.

- Are you still feeling the adrenaline rush from the meeting?

-… Nu wants to try… -Nunew felt shy again when expressing his wish, especially when he saw the alpha's surprised look. -… B-but, I don't want you to make fun of me…

-Nunu wants… -Zee couldn't stop looking at him in amazement when he understood what the omega wanted to tell him. -Nunu wants milk?

- Don't say it like that! - The omega exclaimed, burying his face in shame in the alpha's chest. - If you make fun, I don't want to anymore...

- Make fun? Damn Nu, you'd be fulfilling a fantasy for me.

- Really? -Nunew looked at him with somewhat teary eyes after detaching himself from him. -… Just tell me if you like it, okay?

Zee nodded and immediately went to sit on the edge of the bed, Nunew followed him, taking off his blazer and getting down to the floor.

As soon as he knelt between the alpha's legs, thousands of doubts came to his mind, as if at that very moment he had forgotten the things he had read to prepare for this. But as he looked up at Zee, he gained confidence, unbuttoned his pants and pulled down his fly with his still trembling hands, followed by his underwear and so on until he was face to face with the little friend in love with him - according to Zee's words. First he took him in his hands, as if greeting him and asking for permission to abuse his trust. He began to caress him a little, rubbing it with his palm and fingers; he paid special attention to observing the bulb closely, it was inevitable that he would not do so, as he was struck by how that protuberance could grow and generate so much satisfaction. As soon as the cock was erect due to his caresses, the moment he had been waiting for arrived, he placed the thick head on his tongue, thus beginning his task. He soon wrapped his lips around the glans, avoiding putting his teeth in, and feeling the tip already emanating a salty liquid, which made his emit a moan that translated into a pleasurable vibration for the alpha, which he expressed as a gasp and the release of his more intensified aroma.

-… I think it's best to take this off so you don't get dirty. - He heard Zee say quietly, referring to his top garment. So he let go of his work for a few seconds to help the alpha take it off. He also saw that Zee did the same, so he took the initiative to take off his pants as well or he would feel suffocated soon, in fact, he was already starting to feel wet.

He then took the swollen penis in his hands again, sticking out his tongue to lick the head in an enveloping manner, releasing it from time to time only to caress the slit with his thumb. The next step was to kiss and trace the veins with his tongue laterally, going down from the head until he got close to the bulb.

-Oh, damn. - Zee squeezed the sheets tightly under his hands, the vision he had was indescribable, and the sensation on another level, especially when he felt one of the omega's hands take his testicles and begin to massage them, as if they were really his anti-stress toy. The little noises Nunew made while sucking him were also the reason he felt his stomach flutter due to pleasure, so he leaned over a little looking to participate. He let go of the sheets he was holding with one of his hands and placed it on Nunew's head, who, noticing it, looked up at the same time that he had wrapped the tip of the cock with his lips again.

-God, Nunu… - Zee tightened his grip on Nunew's hair, forgetting about how neatly the omega had been combing his hair all afternoon, now he just wanted to see him disheveled. Slowly, he pushed Nunew's head against his cock a little, feeling it sink little by little into the warmth of the omega's oral cavity.

He let go of Nunew's hair for a moment to move his hand down to his breast, where he not only felt a nipple upon finding it, but pulled and released it, causing Nunew to let out a loud moan even with his cock in his mouth, and that resulting vibration made his have to grab onto the bed again to keep from falling on his back. - Mmghh! Fuck Nu… That was so…

Nunew began to feel his legs tremble, and if the alpha kept touching him, he wouldn't be able to take it anymore. He pulled the cock out of his mouth, resting his jaw for a moment, and then attacked the dorsal vein with his tongue, running it all the way to the base, and there, he went down to the testicles, putting one in his mouth, causing the alpha to jump.

While with one hand he continued to hold the phallus, the other he lowered it down his own body until it was inside his underwear, first caressing its length and then moving to insert a finger into his throbbing entrance, and the unstoppable moans and gasps of the alpha helped him more to make his natural lubricant come out uncontrollably, helping him with that. He played with the testicles in his tongue, and massaged them with his fingers. Soon he felt that the alpha sat up to look at him.

-I see you need help… -He heard the alpha’s deep, breathy voice, and the next thing he felt was his large hand reaching down to his lower back, sliding through the elastic of his underwear and finally feeling above his hole, pushing his own fingers aside. But before anything could get in, he felt air hit his ass, causing him to let go of his balls and simply hold his cock against his cheek. Zee had pulled his underwear down. -Let’s set it free.

Nunew felt exposed, but he also felt sexier. Zee leaned back again and he, with his bare ass and the alpha cock leaking pre-cum against his cheek, dripping down onto his lips, pushed the phallus back into his mouth, bringing the tip to his palate, watching as the alpha squirmed as he did so. He then continued lowering himself little by little, showing the alpha that he could handle his caliber. Besides, it was beneficial not to have a gag reflex, although there were already some tears forming in his eyes.

With that, he slowly pulled the phallus out of his mouth again, and looked up at the alpha from his position.

-… What? Nu? -Zee was enjoying it so much, that the moment he stopped feeling the warmth of Nunew's mouth made him freak out.

Nunew let go of the cock and with difficulty stood up, looking at Zee's confused face, but the reason was simply to finish pulling down his underwear and kicking it aside, purposely leaving him completely naked in front of Zee. Afterwards, he knelt down again and wasted no time in putting the phallus back in his mouth, giving him a superficial blowjob at first, and seeing that the alpha had an expression of pleasure for everything he had just seen, he gave him a kiss on the head of the penis without taking his eyes off it and put it completely back in his mouth to go back down swallowing it.

-Damn, how can you be so cute and hot at the same time. -Zee brought one of his hands over the omega's hair again. -As soon as I cum I'm going to compensate you... -Nunew heard him, he moaned again, massaging the cock with the vibration of his mouth for the alpha's pleasure. Now the slick was running through his legs. Without wasting time, he began to increase the speed with which he put the cock in and out of his mouth, soon he could perceive some movements, a sign that the alpha was at the limit, in those moments he only cared about making the alpha reach orgasm, and in turn, Zee only had the need to cum, so much so that he didn't care about hearing the ring of his phone.

Zee couldn't take it anymore and tightened his grip on Nunew's hair, increasing the speed with which he was fucking his mouth. It was then that, with a moan coming from both of them, Zee released himself into the omega's mouth. He fell on his back first, helping himself to support himself with only his elbows, but he straightened up again to see Nunew, who had already fallen on his buttocks to the floor with the whitish liquid dripping from his lips to his chin, splashing a little on his chest until it fell on his bare legs.

-… You're going to kill me today. - Zee murmured, observing every detail of the omega, especially the small, still erect cock. Therefore, Zee said no more and stood up to carry Nunew and put him on the bed.

- Zee! Careful… Ahhh! - Nunew couldn't complain anymore with the alpha's fast movement, because soon the alpha had already put his cock inside his mouth. For Zee the action was easier for the simple reason that it was a smaller phallus and lacked a bulb at the base. At the same time, he inserted a finger into the dripping entrance to do double stimulation, the omega was already at the limit, so he wouldn't last long.

Zee made similar movements to the ones the omega had done with him. He pulled the phallus out of his mouth for a moment to pump it with his hand and caress the slit with his tongue, then pushed it back in completely. By this time, tears of pleasure were already running down Nunew's eyes, who couldn't understand the words due to the stimulation. He couldn't hold back any longer as he felt Zee's finger go deeper, caressing his prostate and pressing on it as he sucked his cock. It spilled into Zee's mouth as well, as well as leaving a wet spot under the sheets with the stimulation of his entrance. For a moment he just stared at the canopy dome, feeling only his breathing rise and fall on his chest. Zee meanwhile grabbed some tissues from the drawer to clean himself and clean him as well.

Within seconds he had Zee on his side next to him, gently caressing one of his legs and kissing one of his shoulders.

-… I-I’m sorry… Did you want to come in…? - Was what he was able to articulate with difficulty, still trembling.

-No, believe me, what Nu did was enough to satisfy me. -He said sweetly, bringing a smile to the omega. -Nu is so hot, I will never forget this.

-The bed still got dirty, though. -Nunew replied, laughing a little.

-Don't worry, we'll change the sheets. -Zee smiled at him, who let go of him when he remembered that he had heard his phone ring during the act, so he immediately looked for the device and when he found it, he began to check what it was about. -…Max.

Nunew sat down carefully upon hearing this.

-He says he's coming to the palace because he has something to tell us. -Zee showed him the message on the screen. -And that was like 15 minutes ago…

They both opened their eyes wide as they looked at each other.

-We need to take a quick shower. -Zee said, standing up quickly and then picking up the omega in his arms to take him to the bathroom, before Max caught them in the act.

-

-

The speed with which they arrived at the cinema was record-breaking. They entered the room, both already in their pajamas and dressing gown, and found Max lying in one of the armchairs, looking at the screen.

-Well, good night. He said, looking them up and down. -I'm not going to ask anything.

-I'm the one who should ask why we always see each other here… -Zee said, avoiding any awkward questions.

-It's less suspicious than meeting you at your office, and I can have popcorn. - Max answered, showing the bucket of popcorn.

Zee sighed and moved to sit next to him with Nunew at his side, who upon reaching the couch snatched the popcorn from the other alpha and sat in the middle.

- Hey, tell your omega he doesn't have rights to my food yet. -Max complained, receiving only a hardened look from the omega, who still didn't stop eating.

- So? -Zee waited for the answer to the call.

Max sighed and sat back in his chair, facing them and becoming serious.

-Okay... Zee, I think we have an infiltrator nearby, but unfortunately, I have no way to verify it.

Zee's eyes widened at hearing such information, and Nunew stopped eating as surprised as he was.

-… Why do you say that? … Who is it about? - Zee asked with the same seriousness.

- Well, on the day of the dinner I dared to go to the infirmary after your father's accident, and I had an interesting conversation with the medical assistant. He claimed that the medicine bottle was full, but when he needed it turned out to be empty and he had to look for a new one, leaving your father alone for a longer time.

- Are you thinking of someone from the service?

-Yes and no… - Max replied, continuing with his story. -At today's meeting… It was pretty obvious, don't you think? Someone bringing up the subject of your father's medication when it wasn't relevant.

Nunew dropped a few popcorns from his hands when he realized who it was.

-That damn Count. -The omega said, turning serious. -And his damn son.

-Max, do you think he had something to do with the absence of my father's pills?

-I think so… But I have no way to verify it, we will have to investigate it.

-… How? -Nunew looked at him worriedly.

-I don't know, maybe we'll have to check with the staff about the night of the dinner.

-I must refer the matter to my mother. She knows the power that the Count has within Spades, that could give us some idea.

-Can I ask Yim if he was told anything suspicious? -Nunew said, and the two alphas turned to look at him. -Today the omegas on staff were very confident talking to him and when we left, he stayed a little longer because they offered him food.

-Okay, just make sure it's discreet. - Zee replied. After all, he was well aware that Yim had great “communication skills”.

-Don't worry.

-So, guys, it seems like there's never time to rest. -Max sighed.

-Tell me about it! -Zee stretched out on the back of the couch. -We barely had time to take a bath. -He confessed, not realizing what he had just said… Because Max looked at him mockingly.

-I can see that, buddy, but luckily, they save time by bathing together, right?

Nunew slowly swallowed what he was eating, and Zee looked at him with some fear, apparently having forgotten that both of their hair was still wet, since in such a hurry they could no longer use the hair dryer.

Max only found it more amusing to see the expressions on his friends' faces when they were caught.

At least -in the minds of those two- he didn't suspect what "other" they were doing before taking a shower. Luckily, Max wasn't a dentist trying to give them a quick checkup.

-

Chapter Text

Zee opened the door to his office in the palace, turned on the light, and let Nunew in first, walking behind him. Behind Nunew was also Yim, who was accompanying them that day, and last was Max, who, breaking the silence of the room, entered holding back laughter, laughter that caused the omega to cover his face.

Zee closed the door as soon as everyone was inside and left his coat on the coat rack. As he walked to the back of the room, he tried to dissociate himself so as not to hear Max, but it was inevitable…

-Max… -He tried to politely ask him to be quiet.

-Dude, did you see everyone's faces? -Max just grabbed his stomach and laughed.

Nunew had already taken a seat in one of the chairs in front of the desk, his face flushed. Yim, without any shame, pulled up a chair to sit next to him, and began to blow him with a folder he found on the table.

What misfortune had happened? Well, before arriving at the palace, Zee had stopped by the parliament to pick up some documents, but before going through the parliament he had dropped Nunew off at the dormitories to prepare to return with him to the palace later, this because he had had an exhausting dance class and preferred to go to his room first to drop off his things and get ready. The problem with that was that, when saying goodbye, Nunew had given him a kiss on the cheek, and the alpha hadn't noticed that there was a red lipstick mark left, proof of the fact. Therefore, when he arrived at the parliament he was met with "daring" glances from the workers at the site, especially from Max, who since then couldn't stop laughing, both because of the stain and because of the expressions he saw from the people who also saw it.

-I thought you would notice and clean it up. -Nunew apologized, still covering his face.

-Nu, I don't care. -Zee took a seat in his place. -Besides, the only one who dares to laugh in my face is this guy. -He said, pointing at Max.

Max, who had already taken a seat, showed them on the screen of his phone the photo of Zee's face with the kiss mark.

-Surely those people don't receive love and thought their prince was going to die alone, dry and without love. -Yim interrupted while continuing to blow on his friend. -… Although now he is dry, but for other reasons.

- Yim! - Nunew exclaimed in unison with Zee, both of them now with their cheeks flushed, especially because that comment only made the other alpha's laughter worse, who, having already taken a seat, continued to writhe with laughter.

-Nu, I was the first to want to put a chastity belt on you, but now it's too late and I have to talk about things as they are.

- Hey! How do you know it's late? - Max spoke, interested in Yim's comment.

-Why did Nu's gaze change since he came back from... -Nunew covered his mouth with both hands.

-Muyim, too much information. -Nunew was red.

Zee wasn't in a much different state than his omega; he avoided making eye contact with his alpha friend who hadn't stopped laughing the whole time as he sank into his chair. However, maybe, just a little, the whole situation gave him a touch of joy, because from being a gloomy and lonely office before, it was now an office full of laughter with the omegas, especially with his red-cheeked omega embarrassed by the comments.

-Alright, boys, let's get on with what we came for. -He told them, straightening up in his chair and coughing to get the attention of the omegas and the alpha.

The three boys paid attention to the alpha prince, doing their best to regain their composure due to the topic that had brought them together here.

-I had the opportunity to talk to some of the service staff these days, however, none of them saw anything unusual on the night of the charity dinner. -Zee explained, looking at them seriously, and when he finished, he let out a sigh of resignation. -So, I decided to turn to another sector of the staff, but before going into those details, I would first like to hear what Yim heard the afternoon he stayed here to find out if there is a relationship between the events.

Nunew rubbed his friend's arm as if to encourage him to tell them what he heard. After the night when Max informed them about the infiltrator, Nunew talked about it with Yim, hoping that he might have heard something. And luckily for him, his friend did have some information that would help them.

-Well, your majesty, that afternoon some omegas from the staff invited me to lunch, as a courtesy of their mother, the Queen, and as a good citizen that I am, I accepted. - Yim began to eloquently tell his story, provoking smiles among his interlocutors. -During the meal some of them talked to me and answered some things that I asked them. They seemed very nice to me, so I had the confidence to continue asking them things, and some of the things I asked them were about the wrinkled old men that Nu was going to face that day because I wanted to know what kind of adversaries they were, and they told me that… - Yim paused hesitantly, and leaned towards the desk to whisper the following to Zee. -…they don't like them, they say that those old men see them and talk to them in a morbid way when it's their turn to serve them, and that includes male omegas.

Zee couldn't help but have a surprised reaction, even though he wasn't really surprised by that information. Nunew made a disgusted expression and Max continued to look at him curiously for his story.

-That made me mad, because, what old sons of their… mother, I would like to face them myself… Anyway, they told me that they always hear them saying bad things about you. -Yim made the comment directly to Zee, who only made a half smile, since that was not new news. -Then I asked them if they had heard them say anything about Nunew, and they told me that it was a hot topic among everyone, and that not everyone takes his position as future queen seriously. But they also told me that at dinner a young noble was so shameless as to try to flirt with him. -Yim turned to look at his friend, who rolled his eyes remembering the unpleasant alpha. -And that's where the interesting part comes, your majesty. -Yim said raising his index finger, gaining more interest. -They say that they have heard that young noble and his father talk about how all of this is what should belong to them and that one day it will be.

Yim finished his story, leaving more questions than answers. He sat down again and hugged Nunew's arm. Zee remained thinking, his chin resting on the back of his hands resting on the desk. Max seemed to be pondering this information as well, trying to make sense of the few pieces they had so far.

-… Belong to them? -Nunew looked at Yim in bewilderment, then turned to look at the alpha at the desk. -Zee, what could they be talking about?

-I don't know, this kingdom has been in my family for generations, they have nothing to claim here. - Zee answered, still looking into his own thoughts, so, searching for possible ideas, he looked at Max.

-Wow... - Max stretched on his spot, then returned the look of his best friend. -It seems that Park might not only envy your position, but maybe there really is some more reason for that. -Max sighed thoughtfully, not knowing what to think really. -But you said there was something else in another sector of the staff, right?

-That's right. -Zee took out his phone to look for something, and as soon as he found it, he turned the screen to show them what he had found. -I went to the palace's surveillance camera staff and asked to see the hallway to the infirmary.

- Can you see anything?! - Nunew asked.

-Judge for yourselves, this is a clip of the only moments when something unusual happens. -Zee started playing the video, which had been captured from a corner of the hallway, allowing anyone walking by to be clearly seen.

In the few seconds that the video lasts, you can see a young man from the staff carrying a tray with what appears to be a plate of food; the young man enters the infirmary, some time passes - which goes at a faster speed - and he comes out again with the tray, which still has the same plate. There is a small time jump to fast forward, until you see the medical assistant enter the room and the video ends.

Zee leaves the phone on the desk and leans back in his seat, waiting for the first comment from his friends, who looked at each other, processing what they had seen.

- So, it was someone from the staff? - Nunew asked, breaking the silence.

-That’s the tricky part. -Zee replied quickly, placing his forearms on the desk and staring at him. -I’ve never seen that boy before.

-Damn, you took the words right out of my mouth. - Max leaned back, a hand to his forehead. -I knew I'd never met that person, and I know your staff well.

Nunew had covered his mouth with his hands, which was why Yim had picked up the folder on the desk again to blow on him again.

- So, there could be dangerous people here? - Nunew asked nervously.

-I showed this evidence to my mother. We've already put the camera staff to review everything, also Fae and my brother-in-law to do a head count and the royal guard to do a more rigorous monitoring in the palace. -Zee spoke with a certain sweetness when noticing the omega's nerves. -The problem is that I don't see any connection between these facts and Yim's story.

-Well, we'll have to start from the hypothesis that this fake maid boy is related to the Count. And that the Count really represents a danger to your family. - Max commented. -… Isn't Park your unacknowledged brother?

-Max, how disgusting… - Zee replied with a disgusted expression.

-In a situation like this, we have to think the worst, my friend, and for him to feel that the kingdom is his, it could be that he is some kind of enemy or part of your family believing that he has the right.

-I'm sure Park isn't my brother, Max. First, my father may be anything, but I don't see him abandoning a son when he cares so much about his reputation. And second, and what makes it even more impossible, he remembers that he lacks something very important to be related to my family... Which makes it impossible for him to be an unacknowledged son...

The omegas looked at the alpha curiously at that comment.

-Oh, that's right, the royal family has been composed only of alphas and omegas. Plus, your father doesn't see betas as potential partners, like the count did. -Max settled into his spot, and turned to look at the two surprised omegas.

-You're saying that guy isn't… - Nunew clearly expressed the first thought that came to his mind.

-Park is not an alpha, that's just how it is. - Max was quick to confirm the fact.

-But his smell. -Nunew remembered the unpleasant smell when he tried to kiss his hand.

-It's easy to get fragrances to mimic the smell of an alpha. -Max assured, turning to the omegas. -Park has grown frustrated with being the beta son of the earl, son of a beta mother with whom he had an affair. Although alpha genes are dominant with betas, he had the misfortune of being born belonging to the lowest possibility in an alpha-beta relationship, which is to be a beta.

-He wanted to be clever with Nunew and he probably has one the size of a peanut. - Yim commented, illustrating the size of said fruit with his index finger and thumb. - Tell him that omegas don't eat miseries.

-Muyim… -Nunew growled at his friend, who broke the seriousness of the subject.

-That's what they say about betas, Nunew, I'm not the one saying it.

-Muyim, don't discriminate against them for that.

-That's Muyim, don't discriminate against him for needing a microscope to find it in his pants.

-Max… -Now it was Zee's turn to scold his own best friend.

- Dude, you know very well how some betas look at us. Many of them hate us just because they would like to have omega partners, but few omegas are attracted to them. Obviously, they prefer alphas.

-In any case, in our position, we must avoid being prejudiced.

-Okay. -Max sighed and regained his composure, continuing with the main topic. -Anyway, we can't rule out the possibility that there may be some family relationship in a previous generation.

-I think my mother would know, or at least have an idea…

- And don't you have something like a photo album or a family tree? - Yim asked the question and the two alphas looked at him.

-The family registry! -The two alphas answered at the same time and looked at each other again, now with a hint of hope in their words.

-Muyim, you are a genius. - Nunew said, smiling.

-I always knew it - Yim answered with the same joy.

-So, our next step will be to take a look at the records. -Zee said with greater encouragement in his words.

- And where are they? - Nunew asked.

-We'll have to access the palace library... Nu, do you remember key 3 of the university?

Nunew thought for a few seconds, remembering that day when they entered that narrow room in the library. Specifically, when he saw the key Zee used to open the door.

- What does the number on the key mean?

-This is the third site where you can find official books and documents of the kingdom.

- So, what are the other two?

-The palace of the sword. -He answered, and the omega looked at him without understanding. -That would be the first one. -He clarified. -The second one is the central library.

-This time we'll use key 1. -Zee told him, bringing him out of his reverie. -I'll look for it in my father's office.

-But before that, I think we should go to the dining room. - Max interrupted. - I heard that they prepared a big buffet today and this morning I didn't finish my breakfast properly.

-I support the notion. -Yim raised his hand.

Zee sighed at both decisions, it was finally a good idea to take a break, because at that moment his sore back and neck would thank him.

-Okay, we'll go get something to eat first. -Zee told them.

- Excellent decision. - Max stood up and stretched before retreating to the door.

-You can go ahead with Max. - Nunew said to Yim. - We'll catch up with them in a moment.

Yim nodded and stood up to follow the alpha. He didn't ask anything, but surely Nunew would want a moment alone with his mate.

As soon as the door closed, Nunew stood up and walked over to Zee's side. The alpha simply stretched his limbs a bit and turned to the side to give Nunew room to sit on his lap, which the omega did immediately.

- Are you tired? - the youngest asked him sweetly.

-A little, I haven't slept very well the last few nights. - The alpha rested his head on the omega's chest.

-And now we have to work on our final project for the extra class… and I'm kind of busy with the rest of my classes too.

-Don't worry, we'll find time for that anyway. -Zee murmured, leaning on him.

-Yim told me something about the end of year dinner, he said it would be the week after finals exams and that it would be fun with me there. -Nunew commented amused. -Although I admit that it makes me feel terrified.

Zee laughed noticing the omega's good spirits.

-It will surely be. Nu, you have been part of the school for these months, in the future everyone will remember that their Queen was always present, even if he was not originally from Spades. -Zee answered, causing a smile from Nunew.

-You can tell when I'm one of the students who wears the most coats, it seems to get colder every day. - The omega commented, holding the hem of his pompous pink coat.

-That's why Nunu has to come sleep with me more often. -Zee rubbed himself on the omega's chest.

-I can't leave Yim alone, so for now this will only be when necessary. - He answered, receiving an almost imperceptible purr of resignation from the older one.

Nunew, sensing the stress in the alpha's scent, stroked his hair, trying to comfort him.

-We're in this together, and we'll surely find something useful in the library… -He brought his hand to the alpha's cheek to caress it too, at least until something took him by surprise… -Zee, does being stressed calm down by touching me like this?

Zee immediately removed his hand from the omega's ass.

-I'm sorry, it's instinctive.

Nunew laughed at the alpha's shyness in his response.

-You are quite a case.

-So, you won't give me another one? -Zee tilted his face slightly to point at his cheek.

- Did you enjoy being the talk of parliament so much?

-But we're in the palace, Nu. -Zee smiled flirtatiously at him.

-I don't know whether to applaud or curse your ability to respond quickly. -Nunew sighed, still smiling at the alpha and gave him the kiss on the cheek that he had been waiting for, which was answered with a kiss on the lips by the alpha. -Now let's go eat. -Nunew answered him after that, at the same time that he tried to clean the lipstick mark that he had left with his finger.

-Okay, just let me go get the key first.

-Okay. -Nunew stood up so Zee could get up.

-

-

The key, just as Zee had said, was in the King's office, so they went straight to the place, and there they met Fae, who was carrying some papers.

-Good day, your majesty, young Nunew. -Fae greeted them both, and Nunew responded with a slight bow. -Did you have personal business today?

-That's right Fae, but I need to go to the library, so I'm going for the key.

-Alright, just lock the door on your way out. I spoke to your mother about enabling more royal guard monitoring in these hallways, especially since your father now does his work from his room.

-That sounds great to me. As soon as you have the report of the new headcount ready, please send it to me.

-Understood, Your Majesty. Now, if I may, I will be leaving. -The woman said goodbye to them, but before leaving she added one more thing. -But before I go, Zee, clean your cheek well, I can see a mark.

Both the alpha and the omega were petrified upon hearing that, along with the change in the woman's formal to informal tone.

I'm sorry. -Nunew apologized to the older omega, feeling heat on his cheeks again.

-Don't worry Nunew, first of all I'm glad it's a mark of love and not one from a blow. - The woman mocked, and walked away.

Nunew understood the reference immediately, and turned to look at the alpha in embarrassment.

-I don't think she'll ever forget that. -He said, pouting.

-At least she trusts you enough now. -Zee laughed as he told him the fact.

-

-

After passing through the dining room, Zee retrieved the key to his father's office, allowing the four of them to access the library room.

Unlike the small hidden room in the university library, this was a large room, with several shelves of books one after another, with a huge chandelier decorating the ceiling. Perhaps that last thing gave it a certain eerie vibe, and it was also noticeable that there was rarely anyone setting foot in the place.

-I hope we find something useful here, many of these books have not been touched in centuries. -Zee told them, turning on all the lights with the switch.

-Let's go straight to the records. -Max said as he made his way across the room, looking at the letters on the shelves for guidance.

Nunew and Yim followed the alphas through the place, taking the opportunity to sneak between some bookshelves when the names of the books caught their eye.

At some point, Nunew became distracted in one of the aisles, and among the books he saw one that looked familiar to him, so he couldn't resist taking it out; he flipped through the pages until he found what he was looking for.

“When the mystery is too impressive, it is impossible to disobey”

Nunew smiled as he read that line.

That had been the first book he picked up in the library on his first day of classes at Spades. That sentence had led him to the arrogant-looking alpha at the back of that library. That sentence had probably been the butterfly effect that had sent him down the rabbit hole he had no intention of escaping from.

He flipped through the book a few more times, taking in the delicacy of the illustrations and the poignancy of the text. However, as he turned page after page, he came to one that had a somewhat irregular cutout of a Spade, and there the line that was marked with crayon left a melancholy taste in his mouth…

- Nu? -Zee peeked down the hall. - Is something wrong?

Nunew closed the book and hugged it to his chest.

-Nothing, I just came across a familiar book.

- Really? -Zee walked into the hallway until he was in front of him.

Nunew looked at him, and, without even taking the book off his chest, an unexpected question came out of his mouth.

-Zee, did you feel lonely in this big palace?

Zee was speechless at the question.

-I know Max and Net were with you, but still…

-Well... I guess sometimes... -Zee answered his question, trying to see the book the omega was holding.

-Oh… -Nunew slightly let go of the book, letting him see the cover.

“The Little Prince”

Recognizing the cover, Zee smiled slightly.

- May I?

Nunew nodded and placed it in his hands; there, Zee opened the page that Nunew had previously found marked.

-I guess drawing wasn't my strong suit… Or cutting out… -Zee said holding the clipping, showing it to the omega. Then, he focused on the line that was marked with crayon in the book.

“Once upon a time there was a little prince who lived on a planet only a little bigger than himself and who needed a friend...”

Under Nunew's timid gaze, Zee remained silent for a few moments, looking at the page, and, turning to look at the omega, for a few seconds, he thought he saw behind him a small alpha prince walking through the solitude of that hallway carrying the book in his arms.

- Zee? - Nunew called him when he noticed him lost.

-At some point I stopped coming to the library, I had forgotten about this book. -Zee broke the silence and closed the book. -It was special in my childhood. I think I just needed someone who understood my position a little. You know? Alpha children are raised more coldly than omegas and betas… Although my father exaggerated.

Nunew noticed how Zee's words were stumbling, probably at that moment his head was in a mess of memories, and also of gloomy emotions about those memories. Therefore, he grabbed the book and put it back in its place, then hugged the alpha.

-I would like that little prince to know that he now has Nu with him. -He said between the hugs.

-That would surely make him very happy. Nu is not his friend, but he does want to be his future husband - Zee answered, hugging him back, and in that he could hear the omega's giggle.

- Hey! We have the records! - That had been Max's voice, calling him a few hallways down.

- Stop doing who knows what in the hallways and come! - And clearly, that had been Yim.

Zee and Nunew looked at each other knowingly and couldn't help but laugh, but they wasted no time and left the hallway to find their friends.

Max and Yim were at one of the tables at the back of the library, behind the shelves, and on it were a few more books. The alpha had opened one in particular, and Yim was looking at it over his shoulder.

- Is there something? - Zee asked upon arriving.

-There are many little drawings. -Yim said.

-They are graphic representations of the four kingdoms and Joker Land. -Max explained, pointing to the maps Yim was referring to.

Zee and Nunew took seats in the chairs across from them, while Max continued to review the table of contents of the records.

-There must be something here, otherwise we'll continue to be lost. - Max pointed to the section with the letter "A" in the register, which should lead them to the last name they were looking for.

-There it is. -Yim pointed to the surname “Anomakiti” listed, so Max immediately went to the indicated page number.

Upon arriving there, they found a tangled graphic representation of the family tree.

-Damn. -Max said when he found that.

-And this tree isn't even updated. -Zee commented.

-… Alright, let’s see if Park is your familiar… - Max murmured.

-Max, don't say that again, you make me feel sick. -Zee complained.

-Look, something is sticking out. -Yim pointed to a sheet of paper sticking out from one of the following pages, like a piece of paper outside the book.

Max turned the page directly to where the mysterious paper was. Upon finding it, the first thing they noticed was that it was already a very old paper, torn from the many times it had been folded. The alpha opened it carefully not to tear it, but most of the writing was already almost illegible due to time and smeared ink… In addition, two large lines of red ink crossed it.

- “Treaty of Union… the year of the great alliance, under the light of the full moon, … Joker Land, Diamonds and Hearts… a pact of union and cooperation… the lords of these lands… to mutually defend and protect our kingdoms and peoples… promote peace and prosperity…” - Max recited what he could read on the sheet of paper.

- What is this doing here? - Zee was more than surprised at what he had just heard.

-That's about the union when the last kingdoms were born, right? Hearts was part of that. -Nunew, being an inhabitant of the kingdom of Hearts, knew about that part of his kingdom's history.

-Yes, but it's crossed out. -Max understood the sheet in front of them, showing the X drawn with a red line, and then continued reading. -And underneath it says something else in the same red ink: "Don't trust the Joker's smile again" ... The rest of the document is no longer understood.

-… So, let’s get back to the log… -Zee commented, with more intrigue in his words.

Max returned to the page where the graphic representation of the Anomakiti family was.

-Well, let's see if all this makes sense, because my head is starting to hurt... - Max began to read through the large number of names there were.

-Some have different symbols. - Nunew pointed out, leaning in for a better look.

-It's because of the relationships some of the relatives have had with members of other kingdoms. -Zee explained.

Sure enough, beneath the names of each family member, the symbol of Spades could mostly be seen in a tiny way, until…

-For God's sake... -Max said as he fixed his gaze on a part of the sheet, immediately losing his good spirits.

The omegas looked at him intrigued, while Zee gulped, hoping Max was just feigning surprise.

-Max, don't be playing around… -Zee looked nervously at his friend who wasn't showing any smile to mock him. -Max? I'm serious… please tell me that I don't share blood with that guy…

-No… - Was the first thing that came out of Max's lips. -No, it's not like that, but… I'm trying to understand this… Didn't someone check these records before? - Max looked at him, trying to articulate his explanation with no ability due to the shock. -Zee, there is a “J” …

Zee continued to stare at him in terror, trying to understand what his friend was saying.

-Under some of the names there is a circled letter “J” instead of a Spade. -Yim explained more clearly after leaning over to see what the alpha beside him was seeing.

At that moment the alpha prince's face changed from an expression of intrigue to one of terror.

- Zee? -Nunew took his alpha by the arm, scared to see him like that.

Zee blinked repeatedly, looking at his best friend, neither of them knowing what to say.

Zee, calming down a bit, managed to speak.

-T-that… That letter “J” is the ancient symbol of Joker Land. -The alpha turned to look at Nunew with concern.

Nunew opened his eyes fully, understanding then why Zee looked so bewildered. It was not until the slam of the book being closed by Max made them react.

-… Now we are even more lost… But we are fortunate to be able to rely on the Prince of Diamonds in the search for information about that message in the union treaty. -Max said without stopping looking at the cover of the book.

Zee continued to look at himself thoughtfully, up until that moment things had only gotten stranger, so his friend was right and they had to seek support to resolve the situation quickly.

-Nu. -Zee caught the omega's attention. -I think you better tell your parents that we're going on a short trip to Diamantes, since it would be best to talk about this with Net in person. There are a lot of strange things happening, so I'd rather you stay close to me.

At first Nunew didn't know what to say, as he was just trying to connect one piece of information with another. The truth was that they were in this together, so he simply nodded confidently; he would have to deal with his father's concern about the trip, but he had to understand that it was all part of his new duty.

-

Chapter Text

The palace of Diamonds was simply breathtaking… Well, at that point Nunew had added that adjective to all the royal places he had visited over the past few months. So, it would be more correct to say that he found all of Diamonds breathtaking…

They had landed in Diamonds less than an hour ago and Nunew couldn't stop looking around since he took his first step in the royal airport, and during the car ride he also spent time glued to the window admiring that enormous city.

Diamonds had sublime architecture; it was a city that rose towards the sky reflecting its grandeur. The skyscrapers of glass and steel sparkled under the sunlight, reflecting the colors of the rainbow and creating a visual spectacle that left Nunew speechless. The fountains and gardens, designed with precision and elegance, looked like an oasis in the middle of the desert. Diamonds were beauty and wealth, fused in perfect harmony. Nunew turned to look at Zee, expressing his amazement at this luxurious city; however, he noticed that the alpha looked a little sleepy.

Nunew brought his hand to the alpha's cheek, causing him to open his eyes wide.

-Excuse me Nu… I think I'll order some coffee when we get to the palace. -Zee rested his head on Nunew's shoulder and caressed his thigh.

- Are you planning to stop by and say hello to your sister? - Max asked, who was on the other side of him.

-No, we will only be here for one day, travelling to your province would take us a long time.

-Too bad, Nunew won't be able to meet his other sister-in-law.

-Okay, I think Zee should take a nap during the day, I can meet her another time. -Nunew stroked the alpha's hair as he answered.

-

Arriving at the Diamond Palace, Nunew was not only amazed by its grandeur, but also by how fragile and luxurious its interior looked. There were countless shiny things, things surely made of diamonds, so he preferred not to get too close to any of them.

Upon their arrival, the Queen of Diamonds came down to greet them; the woman looked a little younger than the Queen of Spades, she was wearing a beautiful peach-colored satin dress and her hair was up, she was a woman who radiated elegance.

-Boys, welcome, in a few moments my son will come to receive you. -She said upon arriving, and looked around for Nunew. -Young Nunew, my son told me that you would come with Zee, so I tried to be here when you arrived, since I really wanted to meet you in person.

-It's a pleasure, your majesty. -Nunew bowed to the woman, feeling small before her.

-The news of your relationship caused a lot of noise here. Personally, I was also surprised, the last time I traveled to Spades Zee was willing to be an e ternal bachelor.

-Well, as you can see, Your Majesty, I've changed my mind. -Zee said, smiling at the woman.

After greeting the Queen, they were directed to the common room to take their seats while they waited for Net, who, needless to say, had sounded very excited on the phone days before when they told him they would be traveling to pay him a visit.

The aforementioned man was not long in appearing at the door, dressed in a light orange silk bathrobe with gold edging… “Nothing ostentatious” …

-Guys, welcome once again to my home. -He told them as he approached and sat down on the couch in front of them. -And welcome for the first time, Nunew, how was the trip?

-Umm, Diamonds is amazing, the pictures don't do him justice. -The omega answered, still with a happy expression.

-Nothing out of the ordinary, but as we told you before, unfortunately this trip is not fun at all. -Zee replied, getting straight to the point.

-I know, buddy, but relax, we have the day to address what you have to say to me. - Net leaned back on the couch to get more comfortable and crossed one calf over his other leg.

-I hope we have enough time, because what we are going to tell you is dense. -Max clarified the seriousness of the matter.

-Guys, don't scare me, you just arrived.

-Trust me, your help is important in getting answers, Net. - Zee clarified, watching uncomfortably as his friend's robe rose over his leg.

-Well, I'll help you in any way I can. What was it that you couldn't tell me over the phone?

-We better go somewhere more private; we have confidential information. -Max stepped forward.

-That's right... and Net, please put some clothes on, my omega is here. -Zee couldn't stop looking at his friend's bare legs, with the robe wrinkling over them, revealing more than necessary.

Nunew turned to look at Zee shyly. It was the first time he heard the alpha refer to him as “his omega,” and he could feel butterflies fluttering in his stomach, it was just like he had read about in teenage books.

- Hey! I wear shorts under this robe. - Net lifted the edge of his robe slightly, confirming it, but Zee covered Nunew's eyes anyway.

-You better put something more covered up, Net, or this man is not going to be at peace. - Max requested, trying not to laugh, because of what was supposed to be a serious situation.

-Okay, okay, I'll go put on a robe before Zee growls at me. - Net complained. -But come on, you can wait for me in my study in the meantime, we'll be alone there.

-

-

Net's office was spacious, decorated with various golden elements and a large carpet with a diamond pattern in the center. Nunew looked out the window, looking at the large gardens of orange and yellow flowers; in the distance he could see water sparkling in the sun, probably from some kind of pond in the middle of the rose bushes. A few Diamond soldiers could also be seen monitoring the place, standing out in their orange uniforms with bright diamond insignia.

- Well, I'm now dressed like a decent man, with good manners and exceptional principles. - Net came in muttering under his breath, and closed the door behind him, showing that he had already put on black trousers and a loose orange shirt. - Now you can count me? We're in a safe place.

Nunew sat next to Zee, who was sitting next to Max on one of the long sofas in front of the desk. Net took a seat on the sofa opposite them to discuss the matter.

-The reason we came was because we have a problem with an infiltrator in Spades. -Zee began to speak, while Max searched through his briefcase. -And it seems that this infiltrator is Count Anomakiti… However, there are things that still need to be connected.

-Damn, your best friend's father… - Net seemed surprised, but couldn't help but let out his mocking comment.

-Don't mention that Net, Zee already went through the scare that Park could be his lost relative. -Max said placing the family register on the coffee table that separated the sofas.

-Neither of you mention that again or I'll throw up… -Zee frowned at them before continuing with his explanation. -We've gotten information that the Earl and his nasty brood have made comments about the kingdom of Spades being theirs.

The three presents stifled a smile at the nickname Zee used when referring to Park, however, Net did not stop listening attentively.

-That's why we looked into the family register to see if he could be related to my family, but what we found was different. -After finishing his explanation, Net took the register.

-There's also the thing about the fake maid boy… - This time Nunew spoke, remembering the video in the hallway.

-That's right, in a video from the surveillance cameras you can see a boy in a service uniform, he goes in and out of the infirmary before the King's pills were stolen. -Max explained the following information, while he watched Net take the record in his hands and open it. -We believe that he stole them and is related to the count.

-There's a sheet of paper sticking out inside. We need to know if you know anything about what's written on it in red ink. -Zee informed him. -It's the union treaty of Diamonds, Hearts and Joker Land from the early 2200s.

Net immediately found the aforementioned sheet and took it out, unfolding it carefully so as not to tear it. - Having it before his eyes, he followed the writing with his eyes, expressing more and more surprise.

-Indeed… It is the union treaty from the first years of Diamonds… -Net murmured while reading.

-It was in the Anomakiti family section. If you check the origin symbols, you'll find another surprise. -Max warned.

- “Don’t trust the Joker’s smile again” - Net had read in a low voice, and immediately went back to the log, looking with his eyes for what Max was telling him, which he quickly found…

His horrified expression was enough for his friends to realize that he had already understood the seriousness of the matter.

-As you can see, we have a lot of loose pieces. We also don't know who left the message in red ink… or when they did it… -Zee looked serious.

-Well… -Net put the sheet of paper down on the book, staring at both objects for a few seconds, and finally managed to articulate more words. -About the union treaty… That treaty was in effect for a very short time because, as you know, Joker Land betrayed Diamonds. Not only Diamonds, but Hearts as well. For that reason, the treaty was broken and then peace arose between the kingdoms.

Net pondered a little more, sifting through the information in his mind.

-I only know that it was through a kind of theft of resources that Joker Land carried out during the time that the treaty lasted… But I don't know what relationship there may be with the Anomakiti family.

- Do you think there might be more information in the Diamonds library? - Max asked.

-Maybe… -Net looked at him seriously, and stood up. -We can go see.

So, they wasted no time and followed Net into the palace library. There they took out some of the kingdom's family and historical records, searching for something that would give them more information.

Nunew was flipping through the pages of some books that were near him. In between moments he looked at his alpha, who had a hardened expression. He was increasingly certain that something was wrong with him.

After a while, the books had become useless. Fortunately, there were also folders full of documents, letters, and other old official documents.

The musty smell of these files seeped into Nunew's nostrils, causing him to cough occasionally. Fortunately for him, he found an old business folder from the 23rd century, which he did not hesitate to open... He did not understand anything about the subject, so he did not understand the large number of numbers it contained, but luckily, there were reports on the back pages.

- “Suspicious transaction log” - He recited out loud, drawing the alphas’ attention, and continued reading silently. - This… is about the robberies. - Nunew read and reread the document. - It says that there were many diamond purchases by Joker Land, but that the payments were not completed…

Nunew turned to look at them again, and passed the folder to Net, who immediately began to look through it.

-That's right, these are the reports of the robberies that broke the union pact. -Net confirmed without taking his eyes off the report. -Joker Land blocked trade routes and demanded extra payments from our merchants. When they were discovered, the pact was broken.

Max let out a heavy sigh as soon as Net finished speaking.

-This is all exhausting, and we still have no idea of the connection to the Anomakiti family and the fake maid boy… - The alpha placed his elbows on the table and held his forehead.

- Shall we go to the dining room? We've been here for a while, we can continue later. - Net told him, closing the folder.

-I think it would be best, I would also like Zee to rest a little. -Nunew commented, looking at his alpha from the side, who turned to look at him upon hearing his name.

-Sorry Nu, I was a little distracted… But you're right, I feel a little suffocated by the smell of humidity.

-I'll make notes on the information we have, so we don't get lost. -Nunew said, and took out of his pocket a small pink notepad with cat paw decorations and began to write on it. Zee recognized it instantly and smiled, it was not for nothing that he still had the little notes that Nunew wrote for him on that same notepad when they first met.

-Done, I made a list of the following information: 1. Family “A” is related to TJ, 2. The fake maid boy and the pills, 3. The message of the Treaty, 4. The treaty was broken due to treason… -Nunew recited the points he had written. -Done, that's what we have for the moment.

-Okay, I think this will be a good way to connect the things we find. -Zee said, looking at the list.

-Then let's go, we can leave the important folder in my study. -Net stood up from his seat, taking some of the things they had taken out to put them back. -If we have time, we should have a sleepover tonight, it's been a while since they came to visit me.

-Ask Nunew if he'll let Zee have a sleepover with us. - Max mocked, and Nunew immediately turned to look at them.

-He doesn't have to ask my permission... I just hope they don't have any kinky conversations about omegas . -Nunew answered, muttering the last part.

-Nunew, how can you think that we are going to talk about omegas at a sleepover? We only talk about diplomatic things, what's more, you are invited because you are also our friend now. -Net said, with the stack of books in his arms.

- We're in the middle of a mystery and you're thinking about sleepovers? - Zee asked from his side.

-You guys don't come to visit me often, so we should have fun now. -Net replied, then headed towards the shelves.

The rest of the boys did the same, trying to leave only the transactions folder aside.

As they finished putting things away on the shelves, Net made sure Blue Prince was distracted and in a different aisle so he could approach the omega and whisper something in his ear.

-Nunew, be careful with Zee from now until the next few days…

He moved away from the omega discreetly, leaving him stunned by his action. Nunew turned to look at him, not understanding what had just happened.

-

-

-

After passing through the dining hall, the three of them settled into their assigned rooms to rest for a while before returning to investigate further. Nunew was on the bed looking at the news on social media, while Zee was taking a bath. From the news, he could confirm that people already knew he was taking a trip with Zee, as there were headlines like: “The royal couple visits Diamonds.”

He put the phone aside and lay down for a few seconds. During this, he remembered what had happened with Net in the library and, taking advantage of the fact that Zee had just gone in to take a shower, he took the opportunity to go out and see if he could find Net.

Luckily, he didn't have to walk too far (thankful for not increasing his chances of getting lost) as he found him a few hallways down the hall, apparently heading to his own room.

-Nunew, do you need something? - He asked when he saw him approaching him.

-Not really… Net, about what you told me in the library… -Nunew looked down shyly.

-Oh, about that. -Net put on a more serious expression and sighed before continuing. -Nunew, you may have noticed Zee a little strange. -Nunew nodded as soon as Net mentioned that. -Most likely his heat is very close, for that reason be careful with him. Alphas in heat can be a little rough and intense. He must be taking suppressants, but anyway I notice him a little more territorial than usual, probably because it is the first time this cycle happens to him having a partner.

Nunew was stunned to hear the reason… Or perhaps more so because that possibility had never crossed his mind before. For days now, Zee had been in a low mood, he noticed he was very downcast…

The body of the alphas had fewer signs of heat than the omegas, but something that differentiated them was that the alphas had a previous drop in energy, which recovered abruptly at the beginning of the heat, as if it were a kind of energy reserve state that was finished charging for the moment of heat. Unlike the omegas, who were more noticeable for having mood swings such as melancholy and greater sensitivity, in addition to having more appetite for the days they would spend in heat.

-You should take some too since you can react to it. It hasn't started yet, but I expect that to happen when they're already in Spades. It would be a problem if that happened here, since an alpha must be in his territory.

-I-I understand… Thank you very much Net.

-You're welcome, and don't worry, you'll be saved from anything tonight thanks to the sleepover. -Net gave a thumbs up, embarrassing Nunew. -But when you get to Spades you should make yourself a survival kit if you want to spend it with him.

What do you mean, survival? Nunew froze at the word, but he just smiled nervously. That sounded like something he should be alarmed about.

-

-

Zee hadn't come out of the bathroom yet when he got back to the room, so he continued to wait for him a while longer, looking out the window. He was meditating on how much his life kept changing, and on the amount of conflicts they had to resolve. At the beginning of that year, he was a simple student at the University of Hearts, with a quiet life, going to school and returning straight home because he didn't have a crazy life, much less a love life. He just kept on his path of graduating, having a regular job and not thinking about love because all the alphas he had met were stupid.

He was able to soften a bit on that last thought, though, because he now allowed himself to be less harsh on them. Finally, he was now traveling, sharing with three alphas, one of whom was his mate.

-That was relaxing, my back was killing me… -He heard Zee say behind him. -Sorry for the delay.

The alpha was wearing only a bathrobe, and was drying his hair.

-Don't worry... It's still a bit early anyway, you should take a little nap before we go back to the library.

Zee in response, walked up to him, and wrapped him in a hug.

-I'm sorry that your first trip with me outside of Spades is so rushed and we can't go out for a walk.

Nunew sank into the alpha's neck, breathing in his minty scent, which was a little stronger. He was definitely less harsh on alphas now, because the one he had found for him was kind and considerate of his feelings at all times.

-Don't worry, this is more important now. We'll have time to go out later. -He consoled him, moving away a little to look at his face.

In response, Zee attacked the omega's lips, starting with a tender kiss. Nunew reciprocated with the same sweetness, sensing all the love the alpha felt for him, but soon the kiss went up a level, becoming one where their tongues clashed and the small bites on his lower lip appeared, denoting the alpha's hunger for him. That was reason for Nunew to remember what Net had told him; it was dangerous for Zee to go into heat away from home, so as best he could, he stopped the kiss.

-You better get dressed and go to bed; you have to rest at least for a little while. - He told him nervously, looking at his exposed chest, with the danger that the robe would fall and he would also get carried away.

-You're right, we must return to our mission soon. - Zee answered with resignation, willing to obey the omega.

-

-

Upon their return to the investigation, they found themselves covered again with different folders, documents and books, but once again they found only what they already knew.

-Damn… We're back to the beginning… -Max slumped back in his chair, stressed out by the hard work without results.

-At least now we have an extra folder of information. - Net said, pointing to the folder they had found earlier.

-The problem is that it still doesn't fit with the rest of the information. - Max answered.

-We know that the scams that happened in Diamonds came directly from Joker Land, and their ambassador verified that everything was carried out for their benefit. -Nunew said, looking at his notes. -We also have the information that they tried to trade with Spades and Clubs at exorbitant prices, but they were unable to do so. The report mentions that the exports were never carried out. In addition, they maintained communication with their ambassador in Hearts, from where they stole other precious stones and food.

-Strangely, there is no sheet where we can see the signatures of those involved. -Zee sighed. -Probably the Joker inhabitants made the evidence disappear during the war.

Nunew kept looking at his notepad thoughtfully, until something came to his mind.

- Do you think there is a record of who represented the commercial affairs of Diamonds at that time?

Net stopped reviewing documents for a moment and thought about the answer for a moment.

-Maybe... -He answered, narrowing his eyes. -But that must be somewhere else... Maybe with my father.

His friends fell silent at his response.

-I could find out, I'll make up some excuse.

-… I think it’s worth taking the risk. - Max said, looking at his friends.

Nunew in turn looked at Zee, who after thinking about it for a moment nodded, giving the green light for action.

-Okay, that may lead us to our answer.

-Very well, then as soon as I can I will enter my father's office. You will have to be patient. -Net stood up, ending the research in the library. -Now, I need to order food for our sleepover, we can't have a sleepover without food.

-Excellent, I'm craving some pizza. - Max replied, stretching his limbs, eager to get out of that library.

Zee brought a hand to his forehead; his friends were definitely a case.

-

-

For a moment Nunew thought that he would have to sleep alone on the big mattress in that room while Zee hung out with his friends, but he didn't count on the fact that the alphas' sleepover would move right to the floor of THAT room.

He now found himself lying on his side, covered in blankets and with the lights off, while his back was turned to the side where the three alphas were sitting on mats on the floor, surrounded by pillows, blankets, bowls of junk food, and illuminated only by a lamp in the middle.

-… So, I told Boss that the omega was cute, but it seemed like he wasn't that interested, but even Jimmy agreed with me, he knows about beauty… -That was Net, who was obviously talking about “diplomatic matters” with his friends.

Well, Nunew was thankful that at least they weren't being kinky.

-I think he must be fed up with you flirting with every omega you think is cute. - Max mocked.

That made Nunew remember that Zee had once warned him about that feature of Net…

-You even kissed the hand of… - Max lowered his voice and he didn't hear any names, only the laughter of both of them. -Now Zee would hit you if you tried that again. - He continued speaking in a low voice.

-He should never have done it in the first place. - That had been Zee, also speaking in whispers, and after that he heard the laughter of the other alphas again.

-Hey, even if everything ended well, Net and I had to cancel your asexual pride party.

It was evident that Nunew now understood what those three were talking about.

-And then you shouted it to the kingdom on your Cardstagram account, I swear I shed a tear when I saw that, it was like watching a child grow up. -He listened to Net again. -You always refused to be introduced to some “little friends”, so we were proud to see you happy.    

-But it wasn't necessary, Net, Zee always had omegas lining up, there are many among the nobles who sent him kisses, or the most daring sent him nudes... and kisses and nudes... And the kingdom also shipped him with Peak, although they aren't seen much.

-Max… -Zee scolded him in a low voice, attentive that Nunew might get up.

-Jennie liked him too, she told me so. -Net mocked. -But I told her that my dear friend had no intention of putting her on right now.

Nunew's eyes were already wide open at the things he was hearing: the topic of Peak again; the fact that now those alphas were being perverted and that he now knew that Zee had pictures of naked omegas on his phone; and he was also finally finding out that there was another person interested in him besides the son of the Dukes of Clubs.

-… Besides, I already made it clear to him that he is now a family man and his chili has an owner. - Net said again, making sure not to make the omega an enemy.

Unfortunately for them, Nunew had already sat down, watching them from the darkness, outside the circle they had made around the lamp.

-N-Nu, they started it, I didn't say anything. -Zee excused himself.

-Yes, yes, I've heard your diplomatic stuff. - Nunew spat sleepily -and annoyed-, emphasizing the last word. -Now I understand where Zee got his dirty humor and perverted offers from when he annoyed me.

Max and Net looked at each other, making a big “uuuuhhh” sound as if to joke. While Zee covered his face with both hands.

- What offers? Tell us, Nunew, and we will tell you about their tricks. - Net asked.

-You should ask him why he earned a smack from me a few months ago. - Nunew ended his intervention at the sleepover by throwing the fact out and curled up in the covers again. Net's proposal was tempting, but in reality, he had slowly discovered for himself how crafty his alpha was.

-So, you really did say something dirty to him and you never wanted to tell me. - He heard Max say, falsely offended.

In fact, he himself hadn't even told Yim about the alpha's "offer" that afternoon in the kitchen.

- Nu, you threw me to the dogs! - And clearly that had been Zee.

Nunew covered himself further, hiding the laughter he felt at what he had caused.

After that, he decided to do his best to fall asleep. They had to return to Spades early and there his unfinished homework awaited him. So, after a while, he fell asleep and stopped hearing the voices of the alphas.

He woke up again as soon as he felt hands crossing his waist. He could smell the familiar minty scent of his alpha up close, and in the distance, he could hear the snoring of the alphas sleeping on the mats.

-Sorry, I didn't mean to wake you up... - Zee whispered in his ear.

- Shouldn't you still be on the ground with them? - He asked him with a yawn.

-They're asleep… and I wanted to hug Nu. -Zee curled up, putting his forehead on the omega's shoulder.

-Mmm, you better go look at naked omegas in your gallery.

- Nu! - Zee complained, trying not to raise his voice. - I deleted all of that immediately.

- So, you don't have any of those photos anymore? - Nunew asked, turning around until he was facing him on his side.

-No… Would you like to send me one? -Zee made his tone suggestive and Nunew tapped him on the arm… Biologically Zee was hotter than usual, he had to avoid making it worse.

- And what about Peak… or that Jennie? -… But if they were already in the conversation, he could clear up some of his other doubts.

-Of course they didn't send me any of that, they do care about their reputation. Peak is the son of the Dukes of Clubs, I have a good relationship with him, but not enough to be friends and send messages. And Jennie is the daughter of the Marquis of Diamonds, I've seen her a few times.

-Okay... I hope they don't think of doing that...

-… Or are they going to get to know you? -Zee added mockingly, and received an angry look from Nunew in the darkness. -Don't worry, the only naked body I want to see on my phone is yours…

- Shut up you, pigs!

Well, maybe Max wasn't that asleep.

They both looked at each other knowingly, deciding not to say anything else that those two could use to annoy them.

-We better go to sleep. -Nunew said in a very low voice, and snuggled into his chest.

That was the next thing they did, as there was not much night left ahead.

-

-

Morning came early, and they were awakened by Net - who had apparently gotten up and left the room earlier - calling them from the door. So, still sleepy, they sat down to see what was happening.

-I'm sorry guys, but I have good news, get ready quickly and come to my studio. -Net closed the door again and they looked at each other, quickly getting up to do as requested.

Once the three of them were ready, they quickly headed to the indicated place, where, upon entering, they found Net with some large books.

-I went into my father's office yesterday, under the pretext of looking up some data for my own work, so I searched through the old records and found the one for the trade supervisors. -Net patted a giant notebook on his desk. -So I spent a while studying the list and the record of the Anomakiti family…

- What time did you wake up? - Zee asked intrigued.

-A couple of hours before you, my curiosity made me get up, and now you have to see this… -Net opened the list of supervisors on a specific page, and placed on top of it the record of families opened in the Anomakiti section.

His friends quickly approached, first finding that Net had placed sticky notes, selecting important information in both books.

- “Prakit Phongsuwan” -Zee first read the name that Net had marked on the supervisor register, and immediately went to look at the family register looking for the marker… Not only was that same name in one part of the family tree, but the surname appeared in a few more members of the family.

Nunew covered his mouth in astonishment, he too had already seen the marked data.

-Prakit Phongsuwan was part of the Trade Oversight Board during the union of Joker Land with Diamonds in the 2200s. At that time the teams mixed members of both peoples for a common good, there were also members originally from Hearts.

-In this case, this man is the kind of lead we were looking for. -Max said. -He is part of the Anomakiti ancestors, and it seems that his descendants chose another surname so as not to be linked and to live comfortably in Spades.

—That's right, and there are also records of the time he served as a supervisor. —Net opened another large folder, from which he took out some sheets and showed them to them.

Nunew took them, and began to read the titles they had.

- “Sales contract”, “Inventory record”, “Route map” …

-All those documents were part of his robberies, including the map he used as a helper. - Net commented. - His signature can be seen on them.

-Also… There is a horrible symbol. -Nunew pointed at said symbol.

Next to the supervisor's signature there was a stamp of a drawing of a black 6-pointed star, and in red, a sinister smile and two dots symbolizing eyes drawn in the center.

-Yes, it seems that in the documents of illicit transactions he used that symbol, perhaps it is a family symbol or something like that.

-Count Anomakiti is in charge of handling supplies in Spades. -Zee interrupted saying the fact. -It is not different from the work of your ancestor; he is also involved in the import of products.

- Do you think that…? - Max wasn't sure if they were both on the same page.

- Could he have contacts with his homeland there? - Nunew had expressed his own idea, which, from the alpha's expression of affirmation, he knew they thought the same.

-Maybe much more than a contact... I don't know... -Zee lowered his gaze, thoughtful, and raised it again in the direction of Net. -Net, I need a copy of this information, maybe we are getting closer to what we are looking for.

Net nodded. The office was a mess, but after some hard searching, things were finally moving.

-

-

-

During the flight back to Spades, the two alphas fell asleep. Nunew continued to make notes on a piece of paper, adding and crossing things out.

He turned to look at his alpha, who looked peaceful, emitting a small snore and with a soft expression. He was happy to be able to see him rest, the days were exhausting since they had started this investigation.

They still had hours of flight left, so he packed his things and settled down, resting his head on the alpha's shoulder. That way, they did their best to rest for the rest of the trip.

-

-

-

As novelty was already part of his daily life, the beginning of the week for Nunew was disturbed with a message from Max telling him that Zee would not attend classes the following days, and that he should not go to the palace either because… Well, the message said it better:

“Hello Nunew, I'm letting you know that Zee won't be going to college or working for a couple of days. Don't go to the palace if you don't have fornicating intentions, Zee is in heat.”

Couldn't he have been more tactful in saying that to him?

“Thanks for the heads up, but was it necessary to say “fornicating intentions”?”

—Okay. Don't go unless it's to fuck.

"Better?"

Seen.

-

Nunew thought about this for the rest of the day. He couldn't fully concentrate in class, and he couldn't escape the questions of his friends, who didn't miss his silence.

-Don't worry, the alpha heat lasts less than that of an omega, they will only be separated for about 3 days. -Tutor was telling him while driving.

-That's unfair. -Yim replied, arms crossed. -Aside from the fact that our heat can be painful, it seems that you're doing well.

Nunew didn't even bother to tell Yim not to be explicit.

-It's not that easy, an alpha can be aggressive and it can also be painful if he doesn't have a partner. Many alphas therefore decide to use omegas for sexual service to make it more bearable.

-That won't be the case. -Nunew said, frowning.

-That's right, he'll have to help himself with his own hand. - Yim agreed with his friend.

However, that fact had still made Nunew uneasy... Zee wouldn't be able to, but... what if it crossed his mind at that moment?

When he got to the room, he lay down on the bed and stared at the ceiling, thinking about it all the time. During his own heat, he felt a sense of suffering because of the enormous need to have a partner. For alphas it must be the same, but leading them to be aggressive, as Net had told him. They were together now too, before thinking about getting an omega sex server, he should think about his own partner, right? … He was beginning to feel the need to cover that responsibility and that was scaring him because it would mean messing with an alpha with low reasoning, even if it was his Zee… and it's not that he himself hadn't had some fantasy like that during his heat, but…

- Nunew? - Yim snapped him out of his thoughts. - Is something wrong? I was just talking to you.

-Muyim… Maybe I should go…

- What? Where to?

-With Zee. -Nunew sat on the edge of the bed.

-Nunew… Are you sure? -Yim went to sit next to him. -You know that, to go, you have to make a decision and choose…

- Decision of what?

-A stick. -Yim made a fist with his left hand, pointing at the first decision. -… Sexy underwear. -He said forming a fist with his other hand.

- Yim! - Nunew couldn't help but blush at that thought.

-Either you go check on him, protecting yourself from him touching you, or you´re gonna get poked around, there's no other way.

Nunew already had his face covered with his hands, ashamed of his friend's unfiltered vocabulary.

-I guess… I'm getting to the point. -He said simply.

-Okay, let's pack you a backpack. - Yim stood up immediately. - I'll put a syringe with sleeping pills in you if you need it.

Nunew took a slow breath, he had to stay calm…

-

-

-

He had already notified Max of his arrival at the palace, so that he could inform Fae and Zee's mother of his decision. Nunew felt that he couldn't do it himself, it was too embarrassing to have to say that he would go relieve the prince's heat. He couldn't look the Queen in the eye after that. It was already too embarrassing to have to tell Max.

It got worse when he arrived and they were already waiting for him for his mission, so he was taken by the beta maids to Zee's room. In those situations, the protocol was that the beta staff took care of it. Fortunately, it had been the omega maids who had given him a bag with some necessary things for those days, such as special condoms -Yim had also bought him some-, emergency contraceptive suppressants, wet wipes, etc. And things for after the heat, like pain medication and creams for irritation... Oh, Nunew felt like he was losing more of his dignity with each passing second, he couldn't feel any more shame... Giving him all that, they wished him luck.

The betas left him in front of the door to the prince's room. They would definitely never smell that concentrated scent that Nunew was feeling, making every part of his skin crawl.

He felt his heart start to pound against his chest and opened the door. The alpha had suddenly sat on the bed, wearing only pajama pants.

Nunew closed the door behind him, locking it, and made eye contact with the alpha. Not only were the pheromones in the air beginning to fray his own reasoning, but so was the sight of the alpha with his disheveled hair and that large sword marking his thin cloth pants, which indicated that he was not wearing anything underneath. He fixed his gaze on that area as the alpha approached him, like a predator cornering its prey.

-Nu… -Zee's voice was hoarse, giving off a completely different vibe than his normal voice.

Nunew raised his gaze again until he met the alpha's, letting himself be carried away completely when the latter grabbed him roughly by the waist to kiss him carelessly. Then he lifted him by the thighs and carried him to the bed, Nunew threw his backpack aside and let himself be carried away.

- Do you want to be here? If not, run away right now. - The alpha had broken contact, still on the omega's body.

-I want to be here, I came to be with you… - By that time Nunew was already intoxicated with the alpha pheromones flying in the air, so he extended his arms towards him.

With that approval Zee gave in to his impulses, kissing him again roughly, bringing his hands to the omega's first top garment, which was a pale pink sweater, which, in his desperation to undress him, he pulled it with both hands until it opened, breaking the buttons. Nunew let out a moan as soon as he felt that, he loved that sweater, it was cute, so he would claim it later, at that moment he just extended his arms giving the alpha greater ease to take it off.

-W-Wait, calm down, I'll help you take off the next one. -The next one was a long-sleeved shirt, which he began to pull up with difficulty and with the help of the alpha, however, before he could finish freeing it from his arms a muffled moan came out of his mouth, because Zee was already glued to his chest sucking on one of his nipples... Really, the alpha was impatient with the intoxication of the heat.

After the shirt, the alpha went down his chest leaving a wet trail, until he reached the edge of his pants, where he didn't waste a second to unbutton and take them off, and, as soon as he did, he found something that only finished breaking the little reasoning he had left; Nunew used a kind of underwear with a bear on the front, tied with straps on the sides... Yim had called him sexy underwear, but he didn't have anything like that, that was the closest he had to being something "sexy", so he felt embarrassed and quickly grabbed a pillow to cover his face, but as soon as he did so, Zee had already buried his face on the garment, making him startle, inhaling Nunew's natural aroma, his smell of strawberries with cream intensified by excitement, and untying the straps to tear off the garment and throw it to the side of the bed... He must have thought it wasn't even necessary, alphas in heat only want what's under the garment.

Turning to look at him, he found that he himself had already taken off his pajama pants, freeing his little friend, but... Something was wrong, he looked different, could that be even bigger during heat?

Nunew swallowed, no one had warned him about that.

Thus, the days of alpha heat began, giving a pause to the exhaustive days they were having with the investigations.