Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Lee Minho was the epitome of a bachelor living the high life. Freshly graduated from college, he hadn’t even had time to frame his degree before stepping into the CEO position of his family’s multi-million-dollar conglomerate. Not that he’d earned it in any meaningful way, his path to the top was carved out for him long before he could even spell “business.” But Minho didn’t care. He wore his success with a mix of arrogance and ease, reveling in the freedom that came with obscene wealth and a name that opened every door in the city.

His days were spent idling, a blur of superficial meetings and luxury gym sessions. But the nights? They were his playground. Clubs, parties, and occasional midnight rides on his motorcycle defined his life. The throaty roar of his bike was his favorite sound, the speed beneath him an escape from the monotony of privilege.

Tonight, the city glittered under a canopy of stars as Minho weaved through traffic on his sleek black motorcycle. The wind whipped against his face, the adrenaline sharp and addictive. He pulled into the lot of one of the city’s most exclusive bars, the tires screeching slightly as he brought the machine to a halt in his reserved spot.

Dismounting, he removed his helmet, shaking out his dark hair as if he were in a commercial. The faint scent of his alpha pheromones, clean and sharp, lingered in the cool night air, turning heads even before he reached the entrance.

The line outside the bar stretched long, filled with hopefuls eager to get inside. Their chatter faltered as Minho strode past without a glance, his boots clicking against the pavement.

“Hey, the line’s back here!” someone called, indignation cutting through the hum of the crowd.

Minho didn’t even acknowledge them. Rules and lines didn’t apply to him, not here. The bouncer gave him a small nod, stepping aside as Minho handed him his helmet. Inside, the atmosphere was as electric as he expected. The heavy bass of the music reverberated in his chest, mingling with the heady scent of sweat, alcohol, and omega pheromones.

Eyes turned toward him almost immediately, some lingering longer than others. Omegas were naturally drawn to alphas, but Minho carried himself with an air of confidence that demanded attention. He ignored them all, his focus already on the VIP section where he spotted his friends lounging on the plush couches.

Hwang Hyunjin was the first to catch his eye, his striking features illuminated by the neon lights of the bar. The model was leaning back, drink in hand, his posture effortlessly elegant. Lee Felix, the group’s easygoing beta, was sprawled across Seo Changbin’s lap, laughing at something. Changbin, as always, looked like he’d been carved from stone, strong, silent, and slightly amused by the chaos around him.

Minho weaved through the crowded dance floor, brushing off the occasional bold touch from a stranger. By the time he reached his friends, Hyunjin had just lifted his glass to take a sip. Without hesitation, Minho plopped down next to him, snagging the drink and downing it in one go.

“You’re late,” Hyunjin complained, his perfect brows furrowing. “And now you’re stealing my drink? You’re definitely paying for tonight.”

Minho smirked, setting the empty glass on the table. He leaned back, his arms stretching lazily over the couch as he looked at Hyunjin with a cocky grin. “A world-class model asking a CEO to pay for his drink? Slow down there, Hyunjin. People might think you’re into me.”

Hyunjin rolled his eyes before smacking the back of Minho’s head, hard enough to make a point but light enough not to ruin his hair. “What an ass,” he muttered, though the corners of his mouth twitched in amusement.

Across from them, Felix burst into laughter, his body practically melting into Changbin’s lap. “New year, hopefully new him,” Felix joked, his soft beta scent adding a calm note to the chaotic mix of alpha and omega pheromones in the room.

Minho raised an eyebrow, his gaze flicking to Felix, sprawled like a lazy cat. Changbin, ever the enigma, barely reacted, his large hand resting possessively on Felix’s knee. It was a silent statement, one that Felix seemed perfectly content with.

Minho’s phone vibrated in his pocket, its persistent buzz barely audible over the pounding music and the laughter of his friends. With an annoyed sigh, he pulled it out, his sharp features darkening as he glanced at the screen. The word "Dad" flashed back at him, its presence unwelcome in the midst of his carefree night.

He furrowed his brows, his thumb hovering over the screen for a second before he declined the call with a swipe. Shoving the phone back into his pocket, he leaned into the couch, his mood slightly dampened.

Felix, ever observant, caught the subtle shift in his expression. “Booty call?” he teased, a grin breaking across his face as he tilted his head.

Minho snickered, his annoyance melting into amusement. “If you count my dad as a booty call, then sure.”

Hyunjin, who had been sipping his drink, choked at the response, sputtering as he hurriedly set his glass down to avoid spilling it. “What the hell, Minho?” he managed, his voice strained between coughs.

Felix, meanwhile, burst into laughter, doubling over and clutching his stomach. “Taking daddy down a level,” he wheezed, his laughter infectious.

Hyunjin, recovering, wiped at his mouth and checked his shirt for any stray drops. Satisfied it was unscathed, he leaned toward Minho, his curiosity overriding his exasperation. “Seriously, though. Anything to be worried about?”

Minho sighed heavily, leaning his head back and closing his eyes. “Marriage,” he muttered, grabbing a glass from the table. Without a second thought, he downed the drink in one go, the burn of the alcohol grounding him.

Hyunjin and Felix immediately burst into laughter again, their mirth echoing above the din of the bar. Felix practically collapsed onto Changbin, whose large frame absorbed the impact without complaint. Changbin, always the quiet one, lifted his drink to his mouth to hide the small grin tugging at his lips.

Hyunjin pointed at Minho, his finger slightly unsteady from the drinks he’d already had. “You, Lee Minho,” he declared with mock seriousness, “will never settle down with anyone.”

Felix, still wheezing with laughter, added, “He could be seventy and still taking omegas to fuck!”

The entire group erupted into laughter, Minho included. He didn’t even bother denying it. They weren’t wrong, after all. The idea of being tied down, married, and burdened with responsibilities outside of work was laughable to him.

Hyunjin, ever the instigator, suddenly stood, grabbing Minho by the wrist. “C’mon,” he said, dragging him off the couch. “Let’s go dance!”

“Hyunjin—” Minho started, but his protest fell on deaf ears as the taller man led him toward the packed dance floor, their laughter blending into the chaos of the night.

Chapter Text

Minho’s next conscious thought was the feeling of sunlight streaming across his face, pulling him unwillingly from sleep. He groaned, his eyes fluttering open to unfamiliar surroundings. The room was neat but devoid of personality, a standard apartment bedroom with little to distinguish it.

The faint sound of someone breathing caught his attention, and he turned his head to see a figure lying beside him, their body mostly hidden under the covers. He stared for a moment, trying to piece together the events of the night before, but his memory was frustratingly hazy. He couldn’t even remember their face.

With a resigned sigh, Minho slipped out of the bed, careful not to wake them. He quickly gathered his clothes, dressing in silence before grabbing his jacket and helmet. The last thing he needed was an awkward morning conversation.

He made his way downstairs, finding himself in a modest apartment building. The morning air was crisp as he stepped outside, the remnants of last night’s indulgence lingering in his system. His motorcycle was parked exactly where he’d left it, a small comfort in his otherwise disoriented state.

Placing his helmet on the seat, he reached into his jacket pocket for a cigarette and lighter. The flick of the lighter broke the silence, the small flame illuminating his face for a brief moment before he lit the cigarette. He took a long drag, the nicotine calming his nerves, and exhaled slowly, watching the smoke curl into the sky.

Leaning against his bike, Minho pulled his phone from his pocket, the screen lighting up with a flood of notifications. There were messages from Felix, Hyunjin, and Changbin, likely recounting the events of last night in their own exaggerated ways. Then there were the work emails, urgent but not important enough to demand his immediate attention.

Finally, he scrolled to a text from his father, the tone clear even in its brevity.

Dad

Family dinner on Sunday. Don’t make me drag you there.

Minho sighed deeply, his shoulders sagging under the weight of expectation. Taking another drag of his cigarette, he let the smoke linger in his lungs before exhaling sharply. He stared at the glowing tip for a moment, then flicked it to the ground, grinding it under his boot.

Sliding his helmet on, he mounted the bike, the engine roaring to life with a familiar growl. The ride home was his only solace, the speed and freedom chasing away the lingering frustration of the day that had barely begun.

—

Minho stood before the grand double doors of the Lee family estate, his reflection in the polished wood showing a man prepared for battle. His silk black polo hugged his broad shoulders, paired seamlessly with tailored black slacks and luxury leather shoes. He adjusted the cuffs of his sleeves, exhaling deeply before pushing the heavy doors open.

Inside, the grand opulence of his childhood home stretched out before him—marble floors that gleamed under the glow of crystal chandeliers, intricate tapestries on the walls, and the faint scent of jasmine wafting through the air. Yet none of it offered comfort; it was a palace he’d long since outgrown.

Without a second glance, Minho strode to the dining room, his footsteps echoing sharply. The murmur of voices hushed the moment he stepped inside. His family sat at the long table, their gazes shifting toward him, some expectant, others unreadable.

His mother was the first to react. She rose from her seat, her face lighting up as she moved to embrace him. “It’s been a while, my son,” she said, her arms wrapping tightly around him.

Minho allowed her hug, though his stance remained rigid. She pulled back, scanning his face with a mixture of pride and concern. “You’ve been working so hard, haven’t you?” she asked, though she didn’t wait for a response. Taking his arm, she led him to his seat at the long, imposing table.

They began eating in silence, the soft clink of cutlery filling the air. Minho’s focus remained on his plate, though he could feel the weight of his father’s gaze.

“How has work been, Minho?” his mother finally asked, her tone gentle but probing.

“Busy,” Minho replied curtly, not lifting his eyes. He avoided even glancing in his father’s direction, the tension between them palpable.

His father cleared his throat, the sound deliberate and commanding. “You’re getting married in a month.”

Minho froze, his fork halfway to his mouth. The words hit him like a physical blow, their weight heavy and undeniable. He coughed, choking on his food, before setting his fork down with a sharp clink. “What?” he demanded, his voice sharp.

His father sat at the head of the table, his expression calm but unyielding. “You’re getting married in a month,” he repeated, taking a measured sip from his champagne.

Minho turned to his mother, searching for any sign of humor, any hint that this was some elaborate joke. But her expression mirrored his father’s serious, resolve.

“What do you mean?” Minho asked, his voice rising with frustration.

His father leaned back in his chair, his hands steepled. “We sought the guidance of the gods. They have chosen an omega for you.”

Minho barked out a bitter laugh, leaning back in his chair as he crossed his arms. “The gods? You mean those gods? The so-called matchmakers? You’re gambling my life on ancient fairy tales?”

His mother’s expression softened slightly, though her words were firm. “The gods have blessed our family for generations, Minho. Every match they’ve made has been not only successful but built on genuine love. Without them, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

Minho scoffed, shaking his head. “Love? You really think I need love? I’m an alpha. My needs can be satisfied without some divine intervention.”

His father’s tone remained steady, though his gaze grew sharper. “This isn’t just about you, Minho. This is about our family, our legacy. The gods have never been wrong. Every pair they have matched has flourished, their bonds unbreakable.”

Minho knew the stories. The gods, revered for their unmatched ability to create soul-deep bonds, were said to be infallible. Every alpha, beta, or omega they united had found success, harmony, and profound love. The gods were not simply mythological figures; they were institutions of power, revered by society as the ultimate arbiters of fate. Defying them wasn’t just frowned upon, it was considered sacrilege.

Still, Minho found the idea absurd. “The perfect omega?” he asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “What’s he going to do? Bow down and kiss my feet? Serve me tea every morning? This is ridiculous.”

His father’s eyes narrowed. “They have chosen someone who will complement you, who will stand by you in all things.”

Minho pushed his chair back abruptly, the legs scraping against the floor. He stood, his body tense with anger. “I don’t know what kind of game you’re all playing, but I’m not a piece on your chessboard. I’m not getting married.”

“Lee Minho!” his father barked, standing as well. The authority in his voice was enough to make even the staff freeze. “You know better than to disobey the gods!”

Minho turned, meeting his father’s gaze head-on. His jaw clenched, his voice low and cutting. “I’m not disobeying the gods. I’m disobeying you.”

The tension in the room was suffocating, neither man willing to back down. Finally, Minho turned on his heel and stormed out, his footsteps echoing through the grand halls.

The slam of the doors reverberated through the estate as he mounted his motorcycle. The engine roared to life, its growl almost drowning out the sound of his own thoughts. Without a destination in mind, he sped into the night, the wind biting against his skin as he drove away from the suffocating weight of his family’s expectations.

Chapter Text

Minho laid down, leaning against the headboard. Hyunjin ambled over, straddling Minho's hips with light grace, settling onto the man's thickening cock.

Hyunjin’s legs gone weak from the sudden onslaught of lust, Minho could only do the work, pistoning his hips upward to bury himself deeper between Hyunjin's clutching ass muscles. Hyunjin moaned as Minho's attention claimed him, sinking deep and pulsing out only to thrust hard and fast again.

"F-fuck. You only call me over when you want to—fuck!—You want angry sex!" Hyunjin cried out, chest heaving. Sweat beaded on his skin under the dim lights, highlighting the lick of lust in his eyes.

Minho purred, that possessive smirk painting his features. His free hand banded around Hyunjin's lean hips, fingers digging in enough to raise faint bruises. He returned to suck hard on Hyunjin's distended nipple, knuckles curling against Hyunjin's hip bones.

Shouldering these sensations, Hyunjin gasped and stuttered, "You should be calling me over on a regular basis then?" Trying to provoke Minho as he ebonied, Hyunjin gasped and arched a shout with Minho's taunt thrusts. To that, Minho smirked, chuckling deep in his chest. He thrust harder, holding Hyunjin captive with only the strength of his thighs as he hammered into his ass, filling him just right. "You really wanna see my face when I fuck you, hm?" he mused, dirty and jesting.

Pinned beneath Minho's hips, Hyunjin was helpless but to submit as he tumbled into an exquisite surrender. His fingers scored gentle lines across Minho's defined shoulders, grip tightening instinctively as they spiraled towards their shared crescendo.

"C'mere," Minho rasped near Hyunjin's quivering lips, urgently. Their heads colliding like stones on the beach, Hyunjin sealed his lips over Minho's hot, demanding mouth. They destroyed each other with bruising, desperate kisses, teeth clashing hard enough to sting before tongues slid together, stroking away the pain. He felt distant, his body lost to the storm of feelings that Minho evoked within him.

As the washes of pleasure threatened to pull them under, Minho flipped them, pinning Hyunjin down. Hyunjin yelped whilst he squealed, turning into a boneless putty at Minho's mercy. Then the man had Hyunjin captured anew, angling his hips to spear straight into the slick heat with each urgent rut.

Gasps and moans were the symphony between them, escalating higher, faster. Minho's hand reached between them, giving Hyunjin's cock casual but firm strokes as they fucked, rutting hard and fast, sloppy. They both screamed as they tumbled over the edge into white-hot bliss.

Post coital, breaths mingled and slowed as they fell onto the shredded remains of their sanity, the plaintive sounds of dried orgasms finding comfort in lazy spasms. Minho disposed of the used condom before bringing his heavy weight down on the bed

Minho is at the foot of the bed, the weight of the cigarette between his fingers grounding him in the moment. His slacks clung to his form as he sat, the damp strands of his dark hair dripping from the recent shower, cascading over his forehead and down to his neck. He didn’t pay much attention to it. He took a long drag from the cigarette, the smoke curling up in slow spirals, mingling with the heavy silence that had settled in the room. The soft hum of the overhead fan did little to break the tension that had thickened since their earlier conversation.

Hyunjin, still wearing nothing but Minho’s black silk shirt, was lying next to him on the bed, propped up on his elbow. His eyes were sharp, scanning Minho’s posture, waiting for the other to speak. It wasn’t like Minho to stay quiet for long, but this was different. Hyunjin knew something was bothering him, and from the way Minho had been fidgeting with his cigarette, it was clear he was grappling with something heavier than usual.

“What’s going on, Minho?” Hyunjin asked, his voice soft, but edged with curiosity. “Mind telling me what got you worked up?”

Minho didn’t immediately answer. Instead, he took another long drag, exhaling slowly as he let the smoke hang in the air between them. Hyunjin waited, his gaze unblinking, eyes searching for any sign of vulnerability from the usually guarded Alpha.

“I’m getting married,” Minho muttered, his voice low, the words almost tasting foreign in his mouth as he said them. His hand shook slightly as he took another drag from the cigarette, hoping it would steady him. Hyunjin’s eyes widened at the declaration, a beat of stunned silence passing before he could process what he’d just heard.

“What?” Hyunjin’s voice was sharp, disbelief lacing his tone. “What did you just say?”

Minho took another drag from the cigarette before repeating himself, his gaze fixed on the floor, unwilling to meet Hyunjin’s probing eyes. “I said I’m getting married.”

Hyunjin stared at him, his face a mix of confusion and growing frustration. He pushed himself up onto his knees, facing Minho now, the silk shirt slipping off his shoulders as he did so. “How? When?” His voice was quiet, demanding, but there was an undercurrent of concern beneath his sharp words. He couldn’t understand how this had happened, how Minho, of all people, was heading down a path he seemed so unsure of.

“In a month,” Minho answered, his voice distant. There was a tiredness in the way he spoke, as if he was resigned to a fate he couldn’t change. “It’s all been arranged. My family—well, they sought out the gods.”

Hyunjin blinked, momentarily caught off guard by the weight of those words. He’d heard the rumors, of course. The powerful families who still believed in these ancient practices, who followed the traditions of old, the ones that had been passed down for centuries. But to hear Minho, his friend, his closest ally, actually admit to it was a different matter entirely.

Without saying another word, Hyunjin reached for Minho’s cigarette, taking it from his fingers with practiced ease. He inhaled deeply, the smoke filling his lungs before he exhaled slowly, watching the way the mist of it curled and faded in the dim light. He didn’t break eye contact with Minho, his expression unreadable.

“So... is he pretty?” Hyunjin asked casually, almost too casually, as if the question were nothing more than an afterthought.

Minho raised an eyebrow, not entirely understanding the point of the question. He eyed Hyunjin suspiciously. “Why? Are you jealous?” He smirked, the corner of his lips lifting in a teasing, almost smug manner.

Hyunjin, clearly not amused, slapped the back of Minho’s head, hard enough to make Minho wince slightly. “Are you fucking crazy?” Hyunjin snapped, his voice rising. “What the hell is wrong with you?”

Minho, still holding the cigarette in his hand, didn’t flinch at the slap. Instead, he rolled his eyes, taking the cigarette back from Hyunjin and taking another long drag, blowing the smoke out slowly as he leaned back again. “You were asking an absurd question,” he muttered, his tone dismissive.

Hyunjin shook his head, clearly exasperated. He sighed deeply, flopping back down onto the bed and folding his arms behind his head. “I mean,” he said, voice more measured now, “if you’re getting married, you might as well be married to a pretty boy... or girl, right?” He turned his head to look at Minho, his gaze serious now, trying to pry more out of the other.

Minho snorted at the suggestion, the smirk on his face growing wider as he leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees. “I don’t know. The first time I’ll probably meet him is at the altar,” he said, his tone tired and resigned. He leaned back once more, letting his body sink into the bed as the weight of the situation settled in once again. His fingers tightened around the cigarette, the burning ember at the tip glowing brightly in the dim light.

Hyunjin didn’t respond at first, his own thoughts a swirl of confusion and disbelief. He had known Minho to be many things, strong, stubborn, and fiercely independent—but this? This didn’t fit. The idea of Minho marrying someone he hadn’t even met was almost unfathomable. It wasn’t like him at all.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Hyunjin asked after a long silence, his voice softer now, almost a whisper.

Minho didn’t answer right away, the silence between them stretching until it was almost suffocating. Finally, he flicked the cigarette ash into the ashtray, his shoulders sagging as he let out a deep breath. “I don’t have a choice, Hyunjin,” he said quietly, his voice tinged with bitterness. “My family made the decision for me.”

Hyunjin watched him closely, unsure of what to say next. He had always known Minho as a man who valued control, who valued his autonomy above all else. To see him so defeated, so distant, it wasn’t something he was used to.

He reached out, his hand finding Minho’s shoulder, a silent gesture of comfort. No words were necessary.

Chapter Text

The morning of the wedding dawned brighter than Minho would’ve liked. The soft, golden light seeped through the cracks of the heavy curtains in his room, illuminating the sleek, tailored suit hanging on the rack by the closet. Every detail of the outfit had been meticulously arranged, traditional yet modern, an emblem of his family’s status. Yet, despite the grandeur of it all, Minho felt an unsettling hollowness settle in his chest. He sat on the edge of the bed, his shirt half-buttoned, staring at his reflection in the mirror. His sharp features betrayed nothing, but inside, his thoughts were chaotic.

A knock on the door broke the silence, followed by the sound of it creaking open. “Minho, you decent?” Felix’s cheerful voice rang out before the Beta stepped in, a playful grin already plastered on his face. Hyunjin and Changbin followed closely behind, both dressed sharply, their suits tailored to perfection, though each of them carried themselves with an air of casual confidence.

“Congrats, man,” Felix greeted as he plopped down on the armchair across the room, crossing his legs with ease. “Big day, huh?”

Hyunjin leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, his usual smirk in place. “Who would’ve thought? The great Lee Minho, tied down at last.” His tone was teasing, but there was a flicker of genuine curiosity in his eyes.

Changbin walked over, clapping Minho on the back, his grin wide. “You look like you’re heading to your execution rather than your wedding,” he joked, his voice loud enough to fill the room.

Minho forced a small smile, the corners of his lips twitching upward for their sake. “Thanks, guys,” he muttered, his voice quieter than usual. He picked up his cufflinks from the bedside table, fiddling with them to avoid the weight of their stares.

Hyunjin straightened up and strolled toward him, narrowing his eyes as if analyzing Minho’s face. “You’re not even trying to look excited,” he pointed out. “Come on, where’s the Minho who always says he’s the best at everything? Shouldn’t you be bragging about how your bride-to-be is going to faint at the sight of you?”

Felix laughed at that, leaning forward in his chair. “Speaking of which… have you seen him yet? Your omega?”

Minho sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “No,” he replied, the same answer he’d given them countless times before.

“You’re serious?” Changbin asked, his tone incredulous. “You haven’t even met him? What if he’s, like, super shy or something? Or worse, what if he doesn’t like cats?”

Felix snorted at the comment, while Hyunjin let out an exaggerated gasp. “Imagine! An omega who doesn’t like cats. That’s a dealbreaker, isn’t it, Minho?”

“You guys are insufferable,” Minho said, shaking his head, but the corner of his mouth twitched in what could almost be mistaken for a smirk.

“Wait, wait, hold on,” Felix cut in, leaning forward. “What do you actually know about him? His name, at least?”

Minho hesitated for a moment before answering. “Yang Jeongin,” he said, the name rolling off his tongue in a way that felt strange and unfamiliar. “That’s all I know. Well, that and a few of his likes. Not that I remember any of them now.”

Hyunjin’s eyebrows shot up. “That’s it? That’s all you know about the person you’re marrying?”

“Pretty much,” Minho replied, his tone clipped. He began fastening his cuffs, his movements deliberate and methodical, as if focusing on the small task could keep his thoughts from spiraling.

Hyunjin plopped down beside Minho on the bed, throwing an arm around his shoulder. “You’re unbelievable, you know that?” he said, shaking his head. “A month of us asking, and you’ve got nothing new to tell us. At least try to remember his likes, man. It’s the bare minimum.”

“Maybe he likes long walks on the beach or candlelit dinners,” Felix chimed in, waggling his eyebrows. “Or maybe he’s one of those omegas who’s into powerlifting. Imagine that.”

“Or cats,” Changbin added with a grin. “He better like cats, for your sake.”

The room erupted into laughter, and despite himself, Minho couldn’t help but chuckle. Their teasing was relentless, but it was also oddly comforting. Still, the weight of what was to come pressed heavily on his shoulders, refusing to lift.

The laughter faded, replaced by the soft hum of anticipation as Minho stood at the altar. The grand hall was filled with family, friends, and esteemed guests, all seated in rows that seemed to stretch endlessly. The scent of fresh flowers mixed with the distinct undertones of expensive colognes and perfumes filled the air, but Minho barely noticed. His focus was solely on the doors at the far end of the aisle.

He adjusted his posture, standing tall, exuding the calm and collected demeanor expected of an Alpha of his status. Yet, beneath the surface, his heart beat faster than it had in years. His hands, hidden behind his back, clenched and unclenched as he waited.

“Yang Jeongin,” he whispered to himself, testing the name again. Would the omega be gentle, as he imagined? Nervous? Would he smile, or would he avoid his gaze entirely?

The doors began to creak open, and the hum of the crowd grew quieter. Minho’s breath caught in his throat as the moment he’d been dreading, and waiting for, finally arrived.

Minho stood at the altar, his back straight, his hands clasped in front of him, exuding the poise expected of an elite Alpha. On the outside, he looked every bit the composed figure of power his family had groomed him to be. Inside, however, his thoughts were tangled in a way he hadn’t anticipated. He wasn’t built for this, love, commitment, stability. The very idea felt foreign, almost laughable. He’d spent years indulging in the pleasures life offered, the thrill of fleeting connections and no-strings-attached arrangements. The bachelor life suited him: wild, unpredictable, and unattached.

The thought of having a constant, someone tethered to him for life, had never crossed his mind. It wasn’t rebellion, really, more a lack of interest. Minho liked his freedom. He liked coming and going as he pleased, never answering to anyone, and living life on his own terms. Love? Marriage? It had always seemed like something other people did, something distant and inconvenient.

The reality of it settled uncomfortably in his chest as the grand doors at the end of the aisle began to creak open. His heart thudded, betraying the calm exterior he worked so hard to maintain.

The room fell silent, every head turning toward the omega now revealed in the doorway. Minho’s breath hitched.

Yang Jeongin stood there, ethereal in a white suit tailored to perfection. The fabric hugged his slender frame, accentuating his lean build in a way that made him seem both fragile and breathtakingly elegant. His pale skin glowed under the soft light of the chandeliers, and his hair, dyed a subtle honey-blond, fell in soft waves that framed his delicate face. Wide, fox eyes scanned the room nervously, framed by long lashes that gave them an almost unreal quality. His lips, soft and pink, were pressed together in what Minho guessed was an attempt to steady himself.

Minho had never thought of any omega, or anyone, really, in terms of permanence. But as he watched Jeongin take his first hesitant steps down the aisle, something stirred in him, something that made his throat tighten and his heart beat a fraction faster.

Maybe it won’t be so bad, he thought, his pride immediately bristling at the thought. No. It’s not that. It’s just tolerable. That’s all. He’s… tolerable. Nothing more.

Perhaps it was his pride talking, or maybe his deep-seated desire to disprove his parents and the gods who had deemed this match fated. He didn’t want to acknowledge what might be drawing him to Jeongin’s presence. He refused to. But something about the omega’s soft yet commanding presence felt different, like a thread pulling taut, demanding attention.

When Jeongin reached the altar, Minho stepped down automatically, his movements precise and deliberate, as he had been taught. His hand extended toward the omega, palm steady despite the whirl of emotions he couldn’t quite name. Jeongin hesitated for a fraction of a second before placing his hand in Minho’s, his touch cool and light, sending an unfamiliar jolt through Minho’s system. Their eyes met briefly, and Jeongin’s wide, brown gaze quickly darted away, cheeks dusted with a faint blush.

Minho led him up the steps, their hands still clasped. When they reached the center, they turned to face each other. Up close, Minho could see more of Jeongin’s features, the subtle curve of his nose, the slight point of his chin, the way his lower lashes curled just enough to catch the light. It was unfair, really, how Jeongin’s every detail seemed crafted with care. He looks like a fox, Minho thought idly, something both sharp and soft in his presence.

The officiator began to speak, their voice a distant murmur in Minho’s ears as he let himself get lost in his thoughts. Does he like cats? he wondered suddenly, the image of Jeongin cradling a kitten popping into his mind without permission. He looks like he’d like cats. He should like cats. His gaze flickered to Jeongin’s soft, pink lips again. I mean, if he doesn’t, this might actually be a dealbreaker. But no, he looks like the type. Probably likes fluffy ones.

Minho’s brow furrowed slightly, the thoughts spiraling further. What if he doesn’t like cats? That’s going to be awkward. Maybe I can convince him. I mean, who doesn’t like cats?

“Lee Minho.”

The sound of his name snapped him back to reality. The officiator was staring at him expectantly, their tone carrying a hint of impatience. Minho blinked, realizing he’d completely lost track of the ceremony.

He straightened his shoulders, gripping Jeongin’s hand a fraction tighter as he forced his attention back to the present. Whatever this was, whatever he felt or didn’t feel, it would have to wait.

Minho cleared his throat, adjusting the cuffs of his pristine white suit. The officiator's expectant gaze bore into him, reminding him it was his turn to speak. The vows in his mind weren’t his, they were written by someone else, crafted carefully to sound heartfelt yet formal. A perfect performance, he thought wryly, just like everything else about this day.

His sharp eyes flickered to Jeongin, who stood opposite him, holding a delicate bouquet of white roses and baby’s breath. The omega’s hands gripped the bouquet tightly, his knuckles pale from the strain. His nervousness was evident, and for a brief moment, Minho felt something stir in him, sympathy, perhaps, or something more complicated. He pushed the thought aside and focused on the task at hand.

Straightening his posture, Minho began, his voice smooth and steady, carrying the confidence expected of an Alpha.

“I, Lee Minho, take you, Yang Jeongin, to be my partner in life. I promise to protect you, to honor you, and to provide for you. Through every challenge and every triumph, I vow to stand by your side, offering you my strength and my loyalty. I accept the bond we share, fated by the gods, and I will strive to uphold it with dignity and respect.”

His words flowed effortlessly, practiced and polished. Not once did his voice waver, nor did he stumble over a syllable. It was the perfect recital of a script he didn’t feel connected to, but it didn’t matter. This was what was expected, and Minho knew how to meet expectations. When he finished, he inclined his head slightly, signaling he was done.

The officiator nodded, turning their attention to Jeongin. “Yang Jeongin,” they said gently. “It’s your turn.”

Jeongin straightened his back, clutching the bouquet tighter. His slender fingers trembled slightly against the stems, and for a moment, he hesitated, taking a deep breath to steady himself. His wide eyes darted up to meet Minho’s briefly, a flicker of uncertainty passing between them before he dropped his gaze again.

Minho watched him closely, his sharp gaze picking up every subtle movement, every quiver of his lips. The omega was clearly nervous, and Minho found himself wondering how he’d get through it.

Jeongin began, his voice soft and shaky. “I… I, Yang Jeongin, take you, Lee Minho, to be my partner in life.” He paused, swallowing hard as if the weight of the words was too much to bear. His cheeks flushed a light pink, and he lowered his gaze to the bouquet for a moment, regathering his thoughts before continuing.

“I… promise to care for you,” he said, his voice faltering slightly. “To support you, and to honor the bond that… that ties us together. I will do my best to stand by your side, even when things are difficult, and to cherish the… the path we walk together.”

Jeongin’s voice wavered on the last words, his nervousness making his sentences slightly uneven. He glanced up at Minho briefly, his lips pressing into a thin line before he quickly looked away again. “I accept the bond… the bond the gods have given us,” he finished softly, his grip on the bouquet tightening as if it were the only thing grounding him.

The room was silent save for the sound of Jeongin’s uneven breathing. Minho’s gaze lingered on the omega, his sharp eyes softening ever so slightly. Jeongin looked vulnerable, his nervousness written plainly across his features. It was such a stark contrast to Minho’s own composed delivery, and yet, it felt... genuine. Real.

Minho’s chest tightened, though he couldn’t quite place why. Perhaps it was the way Jeongin’s voice trembled, or the way his fox eyes shone with a mixture of apprehension and determination. Whatever it was, it left an impression that Minho wasn’t expecting.

The officiator smiled warmly, breaking the silence. “Thank you, Jeongin,” they said, their voice gentle. “You both have spoken your vows, and with that, we proceed to the next part of the ceremony.”

But Minho wasn’t fully listening. His mind was still replaying Jeongin’s voice, the sincerity laced within each nervous word. There was something disarming about it, something that tugged at the edges of Minho’s carefully constructed walls.

He told himself it didn’t matter. This was just a ritual, a duty to fulfill. But deep down, a small voice whispered that perhaps there was more to this than he wanted to admit.

The officiator’s words faded into the background as Minho’s thoughts wandered. He glanced at Jeongin again, his gaze lingering longer than he intended. The omega had lowered his head slightly, his cheeks still dusted with a soft pink, his lips pressed together in what Minho could only guess was an effort to control his nerves.

What’s he thinking right now? Minho wondered, the question surprising him. Usually, he didn’t care much about what others thought, least of all an omega he’d only just met. But something about Jeongin’s vulnerability, the way he seemed so small and fragile yet determined to hold himself together, piqued Minho’s curiosity.

The officiator motioned for them to step closer to one another, signaling the next part of the ceremony. Minho complied without hesitation, reaching out instinctively to take Jeongin’s free hand. Jeongin startled slightly at the contact, his wide eyes flickering up to meet Minho’s. The touch was light, tentative, and Minho noticed how Jeongin’s hand trembled in his grip.

He really is like a fox, Minho thought again, noticing the delicate angles of Jeongin’s face up close. His features were sharp yet soft, a strange contradiction that Minho found unexpectedly captivating.

The officiator began speaking again, their voice steady and warm as they detailed the significance of the bond they were about to form. Minho only half-listened, his attention drawn entirely to Jeongin.

Does he like cats? The thought resurfaced, unbidden. Minho frowned inwardly. He should like cats. He looks like someone who would. His gaze drifted to Jeongin’s lips again, and he wondered fleetingly what his voice sounded like when he wasn’t nervous. Would it be soft and sweet? Or was there a hidden sharpness, a bite, beneath the surface?

Jeongin shifted slightly, his fingers tightening ever so slightly around Minho’s. The small movement brought Minho’s focus back to the moment, and he realized he’d been staring. He cleared his throat and straightened his posture, trying to push away the distracting thoughts.

The officiator paused, looking at Minho expectantly. “Lee Minho,” they repeated, their tone slightly amused, as if they’d noticed his wandering attention.

“Right,” Minho muttered, his voice low but composed. He squeezed Jeongin’s hand lightly before releasing it to follow the next part of the ritual. He barely noticed the approving murmurs from the crowd as they exchanged ceremonial gestures. His focus was solely on the omega before him.

When the officiator turned to Jeongin, asking for his confirmation of the bond, the omega’s voice wavered again. “I… I do,” he said softly, his gaze flickering nervously toward Minho.

Minho felt something strange stir in his chest at the words, a weight, an expectation, a sense of permanence that felt foreign and heavy. This was real now, no longer a distant obligation he could shove aside. He was tethered to this omega, this delicate yet determined figure standing before him. And for the first time, Minho allowed himself to wonder what that might mean.

The officiator smiled warmly, their voice resonating through the hall. "By the power vested in me and by the will of the gods, I now pronounce you bonded for life. You may now seal the bond."

Minho tensed for a fraction of a second, his composed mask slipping ever so slightly. This was the part he’d been dreading, the moment he had to kiss Jeongin in front of everyone. Not because he was unwilling, but because of the weight it carried. The kiss wasn’t just symbolic; it was the final step to solidify the bond, the act that would intertwine their scents for the first time as a pair. Everyone in the room would be watching, waiting for him to claim Jeongin in this small but irrevocable way.

He turned to face Jeongin fully, his sharp gaze meeting the omega’s wide, nervous eyes. Jeongin’s cheeks were flushed a deep pink now, his grip tightening on the bouquet he still held like a lifeline. Minho noticed the way Jeongin’s lips parted slightly, as if he wanted to say something but couldn’t find the words. The omega looked utterly terrified, and for some reason, that softened something in Minho’s chest.

It’s just a kiss, he told himself, but even he couldn’t deny the tension that hung in the air between them.

Jeongin’s eyes darted to the ground, his lashes casting delicate shadows on his cheeks. Minho let out a soft breath, his shoulders relaxing slightly as he took a step closer. His hand came up to gently tilt Jeongin’s chin, guiding the omega to look at him. Jeongin’s eyes locked onto his, wide and uncertain, but he didn’t pull away.

“It’s okay,” Minho said softly, his voice low enough that only Jeongin could hear. “Let’s get this over with.”

Jeongin nodded hesitantly, his lips pressing together briefly before he whispered, “Okay.”

Minho leaned in slowly, his movements deliberate as he gave Jeongin every opportunity to back away. But the omega stayed rooted in place, his breath hitching audibly as Minho’s lips brushed against his. The kiss was brief, just long enough to fulfill the ritual’s requirement, but Minho couldn’t ignore the faint spark that passed between them at the contact. Jeongin’s lips were soft, trembling slightly under his, and Minho found himself lingering a fraction longer than necessary before pulling back.

The hall erupted into polite applause, the sound grounding Minho back into the reality of the moment. He stepped back, his hand still resting lightly on Jeongin’s shoulder. Jeongin’s face was flushed, his gaze fixed firmly on the floor as if he couldn’t bear to meet Minho’s eyes.

The officiator stepped forward again, raising their hands to quiet the crowd. “It is my honor to present to you, Lee Minho and Yang Jeongin, as bonded partners.”

The applause swelled again, more enthusiastic this time, as Minho turned to face the crowd. His expression was neutral, composed, as always. But when he glanced at Jeongin out of the corner of his eye, he noticed the omega was still clutching the bouquet tightly, his chest rising and falling with shallow breaths.

Minho leaned in slightly, his voice low. “You can relax now,” he murmured, his tone carrying an edge of teasing.

Jeongin finally looked up at him, his lips pressing into a faint pout. “Easy for you to say,” he whispered back, his voice shaky but tinged with a hint of defiance.

Minho raised an eyebrow at the response, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. Maybe this wouldn’t be as dull as he thought.

With a final nod to the officiator, he placed a steadying hand on Jeongin’s back, guiding him down the aisle as the crowd’s cheers surrounded them. For the first time that day, Minho allowed himself a small, fleeting thought: Maybe this won’t be so bad after all.

Chapter Text

The quiet click of the car door closing was the only sound between them as Minho stepped back, glancing briefly at Jeongin before circling around to the driver’s side. His hand paused on the handle for a moment as he took a deep breath, trying to steady the strange, unfamiliar tension that had settled in his chest. The silence was heavy, not suffocating, but certainly noticeable.

Sliding into the driver’s seat, Minho adjusted the mirrors out of habit and started the engine. Jeongin sat stiffly in the passenger seat, the bouquet still clutched tightly in his hands. His posture was careful, almost as if he wasn’t sure how to sit without offending the leather interior.

They drove for a while, the city’s bright lights giving way to quieter, suburban streets. Minho found himself glancing at Jeongin every now and then, unable to help but notice how small the omega seemed beside him. His grip on the bouquet was still firm, his shoulders slightly hunched as if he were trying to take up as little space as possible.

When Jeongin shifted slightly, their eyes met briefly. The omega’s gaze darted away almost immediately, but not before Minho caught the nervousness in his expression.

“Um…” Jeongin’s voice broke the silence, soft and hesitant. “Where are we going?”

“Home,” Minho replied instinctively, the word slipping out before he could think it through.

Jeongin nodded slowly, though his brow furrowed in slight confusion. “Oh,” he murmured, his voice barely audible.

Home? Minho thought to himself, frowning slightly. What home? Was he referring to his house, his sleek, modern mansion filled with cold, empty spaces? Or had his subconscious meant something else, something more intimate? The thought unsettled him, and he cleared his throat, trying to brush it off.

“There’s no reception,” Minho added, his tone brisk. He kept his eyes on the road, though he could feel Jeongin’s gaze on him. “I think your things were delivered earlier today. At the house.”

“Oh,” Jeongin said again, nodding slightly. “Thank you.” His voice was polite, but the awkward tension between them remained.

Minho wasn’t used to this, awkward silences weren’t his thing. He was known for his effortless charm, for his ability to command attention and steer any conversation. It was part of what made him so successful in business; people trusted him, invested in him because he always knew what to say.

But now, sitting in the car with Jeongin, words escaped him. Every topic that crossed his mind felt too impersonal or too invasive. He opened his mouth to speak, then closed it again, frustrated with himself.

Finally, out of nowhere, he blurted, “Do you like cats?”

The question caught both of them off guard. Jeongin blinked, his wide eyes turning to Minho in surprise. “Y-yes…” he stammered. “D-do you have cats?”

Minho felt a small flicker of relief at the response, though he didn’t let it show. He kept his eyes on the road, his tone casual. “I have three.”

Jeongin’s face lit up, his previous nervousness momentarily forgotten. “Really? What are their names?”

Minho’s lips twitched, threatening to form a smile. “Soonie, Doongie, and Dori,” he said, his voice softening slightly.

Jeongin tilted his head, his expression brightening even more. “What are they like? Are they friendly? Do they get along?”

The omega’s enthusiasm was unexpected but oddly endearing. Minho answered each of Jeongin’s questions, his tone growing more animated despite himself. He spoke of Soonie’s picky eating habits, Doongie’s love for sprawling in the sun, and Dori’s mischievous streak.

For a moment, the awkwardness between them faded, replaced by a tentative connection. Jeongin leaned forward slightly, his doe eyes shining with genuine curiosity as he listened intently. Minho found himself enjoying the attention more than he cared to admit. Not many people showed interest in his three “babies,” as Felix liked to call them.

Then Jeongin asked, hesitantly, “A-are they going to s-stay with us?”

Minho froze for a split second. His original plan had been to drop the cats off at his parents’ house temporarily, assuming Jeongin wouldn’t want to deal with them. But now, looking at the omega’s hopeful expression, he found himself saying, “Yeah, they will.”

Jeongin’s face lit up even more, and Minho quickly glanced back at the road, feeling a strange warmth creeping into his chest. What the hell is wrong with me? he thought, annoyed at himself. He hadn’t planned for any of this, for Jeongin’s enthusiasm, for the way his voice softened when he spoke about the cats, or for the stupid smile threatening to tug at his lips.

Maybe I’ll take them back later, Minho reasoned, though even he wasn’t convinced. For now, he pushed the thought aside, focusing instead on the quiet chatter filling the car as Jeongin asked another question about Dori’s antics.

The rest of the drive passed in relative ease, with Jeongin continuing to ask questions about Minho’s cats. Minho found himself responding with more detail than he intended, describing each cat’s personality quirks with surprising fondness. It was strange, he wasn’t used to people showing this much interest in his life outside of work or their expectations of him. Yet here Jeongin was, clutching his bouquet tightly, eyes shining as he listened intently to every word.

They finally pulled into the driveway of Minho’s house, a sleek, modern structure with sharp angles and large windows that reflected the soft glow of the evening sky. The house was imposing, a testament to Minho’s success, but it felt strangely quiet as they approached.

Minho parked the car and stepped out, moving quickly to Jeongin’s side to open the door for him. Jeongin hesitated for a moment before taking Minho’s offered hand, stepping out of the car with careful movements as though he were still getting used to being in Minho’s presence.

“This is your house?” Jeongin asked softly, looking up at the towering structure.

“Our house,” Minho corrected without thinking. The words hung in the air between them, and he cleared his throat quickly, brushing past the slip-up. “For now, anyway.”

Jeongin nodded, his expression unreadable as he clutched the bouquet a little tighter. Minho led the way to the front door, unlocking it with a quiet click and stepping aside to let Jeongin enter first.

Inside, the house was as sleek and modern as its exterior. The open floor plan was filled with neutral tones, polished surfaces, and minimalist decor. It was spacious, almost excessively so, with high ceilings and wide windows that offered a view of the carefully landscaped garden.

Jeongin stepped inside hesitantly, his eyes darting around as though he wasn’t sure where to look. “It’s… big,” he said softly, his voice tinged with awe.

Minho shrugged, closing the door behind them. “Plenty of space.” He glanced at Jeongin, watching as the omega’s gaze landed on a large scratching post tucked into one corner of the living room.

“They’re here,” Jeongin said quietly, more to himself than to Minho. His lips curved into a small, tentative smile, and Minho followed his gaze to see Soonie perched on top of the scratching post, staring at them with an air of indifference.

“Soonie,” Minho called, his voice softening. The cat’s ears twitched, but he didn’t move.

Jeongin’s smile grew, and he stepped forward cautiously, lowering himself slightly to be at the cat’s level. “Hi, Soonie,” he murmured, his voice gentle. “You’re so handsome.”

To Minho’s surprise, Soonie actually jumped down from his perch and padded over to Jeongin, rubbing against his leg with a contented purr.

“He likes you,” Minho said, a hint of surprise in his tone.

Jeongin looked up at him, his cheeks flushed with quiet pride. “Really? He’s so sweet.”

Before Minho could respond, the sound of paws clicking against the floor announced the arrival of Doongie and Dori, who trotted into the room with curious expressions. Jeongin’s eyes lit up, and he crouched down to greet them, his bouquet forgotten on the coffee table.

Minho stood back, watching as Jeongin carefully reached out to pet each cat in turn, his voice soft and soothing as he spoke to them. The omega seemed completely at ease now, his earlier nervousness replaced by genuine delight.

For a moment, Minho allowed himself to simply watch. There was something oddly calming about the sight of Jeongin surrounded by his cats, his delicate features framed by the soft light filtering through the windows.

“You’re good with them,” Minho said finally, breaking the silence.

Jeongin looked up at him, his cheeks pink. “I’ve always liked animals,” he admitted. “I wasn’t sure if they’d like me, though.”

Minho’s lips twitched into a faint smile before he could stop himself. “They’re picky, but it seems you passed the test.”

Jeongin ducked his head, clearly flustered by the comment. “I’m glad,” he murmured.

Minho cleared his throat, suddenly feeling the need to redirect the conversation. “Your room’s upstairs,” he said, gesturing toward the staircase. “I had it set up earlier. You can settle in whenever you’re ready.”

Jeongin nodded, standing slowly. “Thank you,” he said quietly, his gaze lingering on Minho for a moment before he turned to gather his bouquet.

As Jeongin headed toward the stairs, followed closely by Dori, Minho leaned against the back of the couch, letting out a slow breath. His house didn’t feel so quiet anymore, and for the first time, he wasn’t sure how he felt about that.

Minho lingered in the living room after Jeongin disappeared up the stairs, his cats now sprawled lazily on the couches or investigating Jeongin’s scent that lingered in the air. The quiet returned, but it wasn’t the same kind of quiet he was used to. It wasn’t the cold, oppressive silence that usually settled over the house when he was alone. This felt different, softer, warmer, as though something had shifted in the very foundation of his home.

He shook his head, brushing the thought away. Don’t overthink it, Minho. It’s just a temporary arrangement. Nothing’s changed.

Still, he found himself hesitating before heading upstairs. He wasn’t used to sharing his space, let alone with someone he barely knew. The idea of Jeongin settling into the room next to his felt strange, almost intrusive, but he knew it was unavoidable. This is what you signed up for. You’ll adjust.

When he finally climbed the stairs, he paused outside Jeongin’s door, hearing faint movement inside. The door was slightly ajar, and Minho caught a glimpse of Jeongin carefully unpacking his things, his movements precise but slightly hesitant.

“Need help?” Minho asked, his voice breaking the quiet.

Jeongin jumped slightly, turning to face him with wide eyes. “Oh, no, I’m okay. Thank you, though.” He offered a small smile, his hands clutching a neatly folded sweater.

Minho nodded, leaning casually against the doorframe. His gaze flicked to the room behind Jeongin, bright, clean, and carefully decorated with soft colors and minimal furniture. He had asked someone to prepare it earlier, ensuring it would suit Jeongin’s taste, though he had no idea what that even was.

“You good in there?” Minho asked after a beat of silence.

Jeongin nodded again, setting the sweater down on the bed. “Yes. It’s… nice. Thank you for making it comfortable.”

Minho shrugged, pushing off the doorframe. “Figured you’d need a decent space. Let me know if anything’s missing.”

He turned to leave, but Jeongin’s soft voice stopped him. “Minho?”

He glanced back, one eyebrow raised. “Yeah?”

Jeongin hesitated, his fingers twisting the edge of his sleeve. “I… I just wanted to say thank you. For… everything.” His cheeks flushed slightly as he spoke, his gaze dropping to the floor.

Minho stared at him for a moment, caught off guard by the sincerity in his tone. “Don’t mention it,” he said gruffly, clearing his throat. He turned away quickly, heading to his own room before the strange warmth in his chest could grow any stronger.

Once inside, Minho closed the door and leaned against it, exhaling slowly. He couldn’t deny that Jeongin’s presence was affecting him, though he wasn’t sure why. Maybe it was the omega’s soft-spoken nature or the way he seemed so out of place in Minho’s sharp, modern world. Whatever it was, it was beginning to gnaw at the edges of Minho’s carefully constructed walls.

Shaking his head, Minho pushed himself off the door and began to change into more comfortable clothes. Tomorrow would be another day, and he needed to be ready. If he couldn’t keep his distance physically, he could at least keep it emotionally.

For now, though, he let himself think about the way Jeongin had looked earlier, surrounded by his cats, his doe eyes sparkling with quiet joy. It was an image that lingered far longer than Minho cared to admit.

Chapter Text

The next morning, Minho woke up to the faint sound of movement downstairs. It was earlier than his usual routine, the pale morning light barely filtering through his bedroom windows. For a moment, he stayed in bed, debating whether to get up or pretend the rest of the world didn’t exist for a while longer. But curiosity got the better of him.

Throwing on a loose sweater and sweatpants, he padded down the stairs, the cool floor pressing against his bare feet. The house was still quiet, save for the faint sound of footsteps coming from the kitchen.

When Minho stepped into the room, he was greeted by the sight of Jeongin standing by the counter, fumbling with the coffee machine. He was still dressed in his pajama pants and an oversized hoodie, his hair slightly mussed from sleep. One of the cats, Dori, was perched on a stool nearby, watching Jeongin’s every move with an almost comical intensity.

“You’re up early,” Minho remarked, leaning against the doorframe.

Jeongin jumped slightly, turning to face him with wide eyes. “Oh, good morning. I—I didn’t mean to wake you,” he said quickly, his cheeks flushing.

“You didn’t,” Minho assured him, moving further into the room. “What are you doing?”

Jeongin glanced at the coffee machine, then back at Minho. “I… thought I’d make coffee. I didn’t know if you’d want any, but I figured it couldn’t hurt.”

Minho raised an eyebrow, watching as Jeongin fiddled with the buttons on the machine. He didn’t seem to know what he was doing, but his determination was oddly endearing.

“You know how to use that?” Minho asked, his tone teasing.

Jeongin’s flush deepened, and he looked down at the machine. “Not… exactly,” he admitted sheepishly.

Minho chuckled softly, stepping up beside him. “Here, let me.” He reached over, brushing Jeongin’s hand aside as he adjusted the settings. The omega stepped back slightly, giving Minho space, though he continued to watch intently.

Within moments, the machine whirred to life, and the rich aroma of brewing coffee filled the air. Minho stepped back, crossing his arms as he leaned against the counter.

“There. Easy,” he said with a smirk.

Jeongin looked up at him, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Thank you. I’ll remember next time.”

Minho shrugged, grabbing two mugs from the cabinet. “So, what’s the plan for today?” he asked, more out of habit than genuine curiosity.

Jeongin hesitated, his fingers nervously playing with the hem of his hoodie. “I… don’t really know. I guess I should start unpacking properly. And maybe… figure out where everything is around here.”

Minho nodded, setting the mugs down as the coffee finished brewing. “I’ll show you around later. It’s not that complicated, but I guess it’s better if you know where things are.”

Jeongin’s smile grew a little wider, and he nodded. “Thank you.”

They settled into a quiet rhythm after that, Minho pouring the coffee while Jeongin set out a few slices of toast. It was strange, this domesticity they were falling into so soon. Minho wasn’t sure if he liked it or if it just felt unfamiliar.

As they sat at the small dining table, their conversation was sparse but not uncomfortable. Jeongin asked a few questions about the house, and Minho answered them as straightforwardly as he could. When Jeongin mentioned wanting to explore the garden later, Minho found himself offering to join him, though he wasn’t sure why.

By the time breakfast was over, the awkwardness of the previous night had lessened somewhat. Minho still felt like he was navigating uncharted territory, but at least it wasn’t as suffocating as he’d feared.

“Thank you for breakfast,” Jeongin said softly as he picked up their empty plates.

Minho waved him off, standing to refill his coffee. “Don’t mention it. You didn’t burn anything, so I’d call it a success.”

Jeongin laughed quietly, the sound soft and melodic. Minho froze for a moment, caught off guard by how natural it sounded, how it seemed to fill the room in a way he wasn’t used to.

He shook his head, brushing the thought aside. Don’t get used to it, he reminded himself. This was temporary. It had to be.

But as he watched Jeongin move around the kitchen, a faint smile still lingering on his lips, Minho couldn’t help but feel like something had already started to shift, and there was no turning back.

Minho sat at his desk, the paperwork before him a blur. He had a meeting scheduled for later in the afternoon, but his mind was so far removed from anything work-related that he couldn’t focus. He tried to glance through the documents, shifting his attention to a financial report here, a project update there, but it wasn’t working. His thoughts kept drifting back to Jeongin, how soft his voice sounded when he spoke, the way his eyes shone when he looked at something with interest, the way he’d hesitated just now when asking to have lunch.

Lunch, Minho thought, shaking his head. Why did I agree to that?

He clicked his pen repeatedly, trying to get the distraction out of his system, but Jeongin’s face kept popping into his mind. There was something about him. Something that Minho couldn’t quite place. He wasn’t like any omega Minho had known, too quiet, too gentle, but there was also something genuine about him.

Minho’s phone buzzed, breaking his train of thought. He glanced down, expecting an email or maybe an update from his assistant. Instead, it was a message from his mother.

“Have you met him yet? Is he really that plain?”

Minho frowned, setting the phone down without replying. He could almost hear her voice in his head, the way she had spoken about Jeongin when they first learned of the marriage arrangement. Her disappointment was palpable, as if she’d expected him to be an omega from some high society, someone more appropriate for the son of the Lee family.

Plain? Minho thought bitterly. You haven’t even met him.

The gods had picked Jeongin for him, that much was certain. Minho had always been a skeptic when it came to the old myths, his parents had gone on about fate and the match made by the gods, but Minho had always rolled his eyes. He wasn’t one for superstition.

But now, here he was, tied to someone he barely knew, with no understanding of how it all worked. How had Jeongin come into his life when they were so far apart, from different worlds? He couldn’t remember the last time he’d met anyone from Busan, let alone someone who could be a match for him. The gods had been a mystery to Minho for as long as he could remember, but the way they’d paired him with Jeongin still didn’t make sense.

He sighed, rubbing his temples in frustration.

All he knew for sure was that Jeongin liked cats and gardens. He remembered hearing his mom say that Jeongin wasn’t an elite, just an average person who lived in Busan, or maybe somewhere else. Minho had never bothered to ask him much about his life, not that he could now. Not with all the walls up between them.

What did it even matter? They got married, sure, but what else was there?

He glanced at the clock. Only a few more minutes before lunch. His stomach twisted slightly at the thought, though he was unsure whether it was from the hunger or the awkwardness of sitting across from Jeongin, trying to make conversation when neither of them knew where to start.

Get it together, Minho told himself. It’s just lunch.

But as the time passed and he stood up to grab his jacket, a gnawing feeling settled in his chest, something that he couldn’t ignore anymore. There was more to this than just a simple lunch, just an arrangement made by the gods.

Minho had never been one to believe in fate, but now, as he prepared to walk into the kitchen where Jeongin waited, he couldn’t help but wonder if the gods had known something he didn’t. Something about Jeongin. Something about them together.

His thoughts were interrupted by the soft sound of footsteps behind him.

"Ready?" Jeongin's voice was gentle, yet it carried a note of nervousness that was hard to miss.

Minho turned around, finding Jeongin standing in the doorway, dressed in something simple but neatly put together. He looked so out of place, yet somehow fitting in this house. Minho stared for a moment, his mind wandering again, and then nodded.

“Yeah,” he replied, his voice gruffer than he intended. He cleared his throat quickly, forcing a smile. “Let’s go.”

They headed out together, both of them walking into the unknown. Minho wasn’t sure what he was expecting from this lunch or from the rest of their time together, but he couldn’t shake the feeling that things had already begun to change.

The drive to the restaurant was quieter than Minho had expected. The streets outside passed by in a blur as he kept his eyes on the road, his mind still half-occupied with the odd mix of curiosity and frustration that had been swirling inside him since the wedding. Jeongin, sitting beside him in the passenger seat, seemed lost in thought as well, his fingers lightly gripping the bouquet he’d kept from the ceremony, his eyes flicking between the passing scenery and his lap.

Minho glanced over at him when he could. There was something in the way Jeongin held himself, reserved, yet somehow fragile, as though he were waiting for something to happen, but not sure what. Minho had never been great at this whole “getting to know someone” thing. He could command a room, lead business negotiations, easily direct people in his company but none of that translated here. Not with Jeongin.

The silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken words, the hum of the engine the only sound. Minho could feel the tension building in the air, but he didn’t know how to break it. It was like there was a line between them, one that neither of them had crossed yet, and Minho wasn’t sure if he should.

“Are you hungry?” Minho asked suddenly, his voice a little rougher than he meant. He immediately regretted it. It was such a mundane question, and here he was, trying to get to know his mate, and all he could think of was food.

Jeongin nodded slightly, his eyes glancing over to Minho, his lips curving into a faint, unsure smile. “A little.”

Minho had to bite back a sigh. What was he supposed to say now? He was about to spend more time with Jeongin than he had in the past month, and the best he could come up with was a little?

His thoughts returned to their brief conversation earlier. He barely knew anything about Jeongin. He could recall his name, of course, and his fondness for cats and gardens. But other than that? Nothing. It was frustrating, knowing so little about the person he was now legally bound to, even though they had been brought together by the gods, by some higher power Minho still didn’t fully understand.

“How was your day?” Minho tried again, glancing over at Jeongin, who was staring out of the window now.

“It was good,” Jeongin answered quietly, a slight lilt to his voice. He shifted in his seat, rubbing his hands together as though nervous. “The garden’s beautiful. I haven’t been in one like that in a long time.”

Minho’s eyes flicked over to Jeongin again, catching the earnestness in his expression. He didn’t know why, but hearing Jeongin speak so honestly about something simple, something as small as a garden, made something inside Minho stir.

“Yeah,” Minho said, his voice softer. “I’m glad you like it.”

Jeongin turned toward him now, his gaze a little more intense. “I’m glad you’re… willing to let me be here,” he said, his voice still laced with that undercurrent of uncertainty. “I know this isn’t exactly what you had in mind.”

Minho opened his mouth to say something, but no words came out. His mind raced. What was he supposed to say to that? He hadn’t expected to be married today, hell, he hadn’t expected to be married at all. And yet here he was, the vows still fresh in his mind, the weight of the promise settling over him like an invisible burden.

“Look,” Minho started, trying to find the right words. “I didn’t ask for this either. But we’re in it now. We’ll figure it out.”

Jeongin’s eyes softened a little, as if he was absorbing Minho’s words, and then, almost imperceptibly, he nodded.

The restaurant they’d chosen was a quiet place, nothing too fancy, but it had a nice ambiance. The kind of place Minho would have normally frequented with friends or colleagues, never with someone like Jeongin. Still, he wasn’t sure why he thought this would be different, as if somehow the setting would change the tension between them.

They walked in together, the quiet hum of the restaurant a stark contrast to the silence they shared in the car. Minho pulled out a chair for Jeongin, instinctively doing what felt natural, yet somehow, it felt out of place. As if this whole day was a performance, and he wasn’t sure if he was acting in the right role.

Jeongin sat down across from him, eyes downcast, almost shy in the low lighting of the restaurant. Minho sat, leaning back in his chair, trying to think of something to say. Anything. But his mind was blank again.

The waiter came by to take their order, and Minho found himself watching Jeongin instead of paying attention to the menu. He couldn’t help it, the way Jeongin’s fingers fidgeted with the edge of his napkin, the way his lips pressed together in quiet contemplation. Minho had never been the type to notice the small things in people, but with Jeongin, everything felt amplified. Every little gesture seemed to speak louder than words.

“Do you like this kind of food?” Minho asked, trying to fill the silence, his gaze catching Jeongin’s.

Jeongin blinked, caught off guard for a moment. “I think so,” he said, his voice a little less shaky than it had been before. “I’m not picky.”

Minho nodded, smiling faintly to himself. “Good. I’m not a fan of picky eaters.”

Jeongin’s lips twitched upward. “I don’t think I’d be that picky.”

They exchanged a brief look, and for the first time all day, Minho felt like maybe, just maybe, he was beginning to understand Jeongin, or at least the surface of him. It wasn’t much, but it was something.

They ordered their food, and the conversation drifted from topic to topic, nothing too deep, nothing too important, just two people sitting across from each other trying to make sense of this strange reality they were now living.

But for the first time, Minho didn’t feel completely out of place. And that was more than he expected.

The lunch passed more easily than Minho expected. At first, it had been awkward, clumsy questions, long pauses, Jeongin’s timid answers that made Minho second-guess himself. But somewhere between the appetizers and the main course, something shifted.

Jeongin had started to relax, even if only a little. He wasn’t as stiff as before, and his voice carried a soft but steady tone now when he spoke. Minho found himself leaning into the conversation without realizing it, asking about Jeongin’s favorite flowers, his preferred weather, little things that didn’t seem important but felt necessary in that moment.

Jeongin told him he liked daffodils because they reminded him of spring in Busan. That he liked rainy days as long as they weren’t too cold. That he used to read a lot of books about ancient history but hadn’t had much time for it lately.

Minho listened, really listened, in a way he wasn’t used to. He wasn’t just asking questions to fill the silence anymore. Somewhere along the line, he realized he was actually curious.

And that scared him.

He wasn’t supposed to care. This wasn’t supposed to feel like anything more than an obligation, a duty bound by the gods and upheld by tradition. He was supposed to maintain his distance, keep this transactional, detached. But now, sitting across from Jeongin, watching the way his eyes lit up when he spoke about Busan’s coastal gardens, Minho could feel the cracks forming in his carefully constructed walls.

He told himself he wasn’t letting his guard down, that he was simply being polite, that this was all part of getting to know someone you had to spend the rest of your life with. But deep down, he knew that wasn’t true.

He was letting Jeongin in, bit by bit.

Jeongin must have noticed the way Minho was quieting, the usual sharpness in his demeanor softening. He looked up from his plate, tilting his head slightly, and asked, “Are you okay?”

Minho blinked, realizing he’d been staring at Jeongin a little too long. He cleared his throat, shifting in his chair. “Yeah, I’m fine,” he said, his voice a little too even to be believable.

Jeongin didn’t press him, but the way his gaze lingered on Minho made it clear he wasn’t entirely convinced.

As they finished their meal, Minho found himself wondering why Jeongin wasn’t more bitter about this arrangement. He’d seen the way omegas like Jeongin were treated, looked down on, underestimated. Yet here Jeongin was, taking everything in stride, his gentleness not a sign of weakness but a quiet strength.

When the check came, Minho paid without a second thought. Jeongin started to protest, but Minho waved him off. “You’ll have plenty of chances to argue about this later,” he said with a faint smirk, and Jeongin blushed, looking down at his hands.

The drive back home was quieter, but it wasn’t the same kind of silence as before. This time, it felt like they were both thinking, both processing the subtle shift between them.

Minho parked the car in the driveway and hesitated for a moment before getting out. He could feel the weight of everything that had changed in just a few hours. When he walked aaxround to Jeongin’s side to open the door, he found himself hesitating again.

“Thanks,” Jeongin said softly as he stepped out, his eyes meeting Minho’s briefly.

Minho nodded, his throat suddenly dry. He didn’t know what was happening to him, why he felt so raw, so exposed around Jeongin. He didn’t like it. And yet, he couldn’t seem to stop it.

As they walked back into the house, Jeongin glanced at the garden through the windows, his face lighting up just a little. Minho noticed, and before he could think better of it, he said, “You can spend as much time there as you want. It’s yours too now.”

Jeongin looked at him, surprised, and then smiled, soft, hesitant, but real.

“Thank you,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Minho didn’t respond. He couldn’t. The cracks in his walls had grown wider, and for the first time in years, he wasn’t sure if he had the strength to patch them up again.

Maybe he didn’t want to.

Chapter Text

Minho’s office was his sanctuary. The sprawling, minimalist room on the top floor of the company’s headquarters offered him solace in a way few places could. The soft hum of his computer, the neatly stacked papers on his desk, and the city skyline outside his window always had a way of calming his restless thoughts.

But today was different.

He’d left Jeongin at home after an awkward goodbye. The younger man had shyly asked if there was anything he could do while Minho was out, and Minho had muttered something vague about the garden being his if he wanted it. Jeongin had nodded, and Minho had walked out, the weight of the morning still clinging to his shoulders.

Now, as he sat at his desk, trying to focus on the reports in front of him, Minho found his thoughts drifting. Jeongin’s quiet voice, his fox-like eyes, the way he’d smiled softly at the mention of the garden, it all lingered in Minho’s mind like a melody he couldn’t shake.

The sharp sound of his office door bursting open snapped him out of his reverie.

“Minho-yah!” Changbin’s voice boomed as he marched in, followed closely by Felix and Hyunjin.

Minho groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Do none of you understand the concept of knocking?”

“Knocking is for people who aren’t curious about your so-called honeymoon,” Felix chimed in, dropping into one of the chairs opposite Minho’s desk with a wide grin. “So, how was it? Romantic? Awkward? Did you sweep him off his feet yet?”

Hyunjin leaned against the desk, smirking. “Don’t tell me you’re already avoiding him and diving into work. Classic Minho.”

Changbin crossed his arms, raising an eyebrow. “We all know you’re not exactly the romantic type, but you’re not that bad… right?”

Minho rolled his eyes, leaning back in his chair. “It’s been two days. Can you not?”

“Two days and no mating mark?” Hyunjin teased, his gaze dropping to Minho’s neck. “What’s the hold-up? Don’t tell me you’re scared of marking him.”

Minho’s jaw tightened, and he looked away. “That’s none of your business.”

“None of our business?” Felix laughed, leaning forward. “We’re your friends. It’s exactly our business.”

“Felix is right,” Changbin said, sitting down in the chair next to Felix. “You’re married now. It’s not like you can just pretend he’s not there. You need to… I don’t know… spend time with him. Get closer. Make it real.”

“Make it real?” Minho repeated, his voice sharper than he intended. “It’s already real. The gods made sure of that.”

Hyunjin snorted. “You’re so dramatic. We’re saying you should want to get closer to him. You know, bond like mates are supposed to. Or are you really planning to live the rest of your life keeping him at arm’s length?”

Minho didn’t respond. The idea of getting too close to Jeongin scared him more than he wanted to admit. The thought of lowering his defenses, of letting someone into the carefully guarded world he’d built, made his chest tighten. Jeongin was already starting to slip through the cracks, and Minho wasn’t sure he could handle it if the walls came down completely.

“See?” Felix said, breaking the silence. “You’re not even denying it. You’re terrified.”

“I’m not terrified,” Minho snapped, but the words felt hollow.

“Then prove it,” Changbin challenged. “Spend more time with him. Get to know him. You’re not the kind of guy who does anything halfway, so don’t start now.”

Minho glared at him, but Changbin’s expression didn’t waver.

“Just think about it,” Hyunjin added, his voice softer now. “He’s your mate, Minho. Whether you like it or not, he’s in your life. You might as well make it worth something.”

The three of them left shortly after, their teasing replaced by a quiet concern that lingered in the room long after they were gone.

Minho sat back in his chair, staring at the papers on his desk without really seeing them. His friends’ words echoed in his mind, but he pushed them away, burying himself in work instead.

The hours slipped by, the city outside his window darkening as night fell. The office grew quiet, the buzz of activity from earlier in the day fading into silence.

But no matter how hard Minho tried to focus, his thoughts kept drifting back to Jeongin. To his shy smile, his soft voice, the way he’d looked at Minho like he was trying to figure him out.

Minho sighed, rubbing a hand over his face. He wasn’t ready to let his walls down completely. Not yet. Maybe not ever. But as much as he wanted to keep his distance, he couldn’t shake the feeling that Jeongin was already closer than he realized.

The house was quiet when Minho finally pulled into the driveway, the faint glow of the porch light spilling onto the pavement. It was well past dinnertime, and he felt the weight of the long day pressing down on him. He hadn't intended to stay at the office that late, but something about burying himself in work had seemed easier than coming home.

Minho stepped inside, loosening his tie and shrugging off his coat. He wasn’t expecting anyone to still be awake, but as he turned into the living room, he froze.

Jeongin was sitting on the couch, one of the cats, Doongie, by the looks of it, curled up in his lap, purring softly. Soonie and Dori were lying on either side of him, their tails flicking lazily. Jeongin’s head turned at the sound of the door, and his face lit up when he saw Minho.

“You’re home,” Jeongin said softly, his voice tentative but warm. He set Doongie gently onto the cushion beside him and stood, smoothing out the front of his sweater.

Minho nodded, his gaze flickering to the cats before settling on Jeongin. “Yeah. It’s late.”

“Do you always come home this late?” Jeongin asked, stepping closer. His tone wasn’t accusatory, just curious, maybe even a little concerned.

Minho shrugged, avoiding the question. “Sometimes.”

Jeongin hesitated, then offered a small smile. “I made dinner earlier. It’s still on the table. Let me heat it up for you.”

Minho blinked, glancing toward the dining room. Sure enough, the table was set. Two plates sat at opposite ends, untouched. The food in the center had been neatly arranged, simple dishes, but the effort was clear.

Jeongin took a step toward the kitchen. “It won’t take long. I can—”

“No thanks,” Minho interrupted, his voice flat. He turned away, heading for the hallway that led to his room. “I’m not hungry.”

Jeongin stopped in his tracks, the small smile slipping from his face. He looked after Minho, confusion and hurt flickering in his eyes. “Oh,” he murmured, barely audible. “Okay.”

Minho didn’t turn around. He didn’t explain, didn’t offer any sort of comfort or reassurance. He just kept walking, his steps heavy on the hardwood floor.

When he reached his room, he closed the door behind him with a quiet click. Leaning against it, he let out a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding.

The truth was, he didn’t know why he’d brushed Jeongin off like that. The younger man had done nothing wrong. If anything, he’d been trying to make Minho feel welcome in his own home, trying to bridge the gap between them. But the thought of sitting across from him, of sharing a meal and making small talk, felt overwhelming in a way Minho couldn’t explain.

He wasn’t ready.

Minho ran a hand through his hair, letting out a frustrated sigh. He could still picture Jeongin standing there, the light from the kitchen casting soft shadows on his face, his expression crumbling when Minho dismissed him.

The cats would comfort him, Minho told himself. They liked Jeongin, and Jeongin seemed to like them too. That should be enough for now.

But as he sat on the edge of his bed, staring at the darkened room, Minho couldn’t shake the pang of guilt that settled in his chest.

Minho didn’t sleep much that night, though it had nothing to do with work or exhaustion. Restlessness clung to him like a second skin, but he refused to acknowledge the reason. By the time morning rolled around, he was already up, dressed, and focused on the endless stream of emails waiting for his attention.

The house was eerily quiet as he stepped out of his room, the faint scent of breakfast reaching him. Minho followed it into the kitchen, his footsteps measured.

Jeongin was standing by the counter, his back to Minho. He was dressed in a soft sweater and pajama pants, his hair slightly tousled from sleep. The domesticity of the scene was unsettling, but Minho pushed the thought aside.

Jeongin glanced over his shoulder and stiffened slightly when he saw Minho. “Good morning,” he said softly, his voice cautious.

Minho gave a curt nod, brushing past Jeongin to the coffee maker. He didn’t respond, instead focusing on pouring himself a cup.

“I made breakfast,” Jeongin ventured after a moment, gesturing to the table where two plates were set with scrambled eggs, toast, and fruit. “If… if you’re hungry.”

Minho glanced at the table briefly, his expression unreadable. “I don’t have time,” he said flatly, sipping his coffee.

Jeongin faltered, his hands fidgeting as he turned back to the stove. “Oh… okay.”

The silence between them was heavy, but Minho made no effort to break it. He took another sip of his coffee, leaning against the counter and staring out the window.

“Did the cats sleep with you?” Jeongin asked after a moment, his voice hesitant but hopeful.

“They did,” Minho said simply, not elaborating.

Jeongin bit his lip, his gaze flickering to the cats lounging by the doorway. “They seem to like you a lot,” he offered, his tone light but uncertain.

Minho didn’t respond. Instead, he set his empty coffee cup in the sink with a clink and straightened his tie. “I’ll be late tonight,” he said, his tone dismissive.

Jeongin blinked, his shoulders dropping slightly. “Oh… alright.”

Minho moved toward the door without a second glance.

“Minho,” Jeongin called softly, stopping him in his tracks.

“What?” Minho asked, not bothering to look back.

Jeongin hesitated, his hands wringing nervously. “Have… have I done something wrong?”

Minho finally turned, his gaze sharp and cool. “Don’t overthink it,” he said, his tone clipped. “I have work to do.”

Jeongin’s face fell, but he nodded, stepping back to give Minho space.

Without another word, Minho left, the sound of the door closing echoing through the quiet house. As he walked to his car, he pushed the image of Jeongin’s downcast expression from his mind. It wasn’t his job to coddle anyone, not even his mate. He had more important things to worry about, or at least, that’s what he told himself.

The house felt impossibly quiet once Minho left for work. Jeongin stood by the window, watching as the car disappeared down the driveway. He let out a small sigh, his fingers brushing over the edge of his sweater sleeve nervously.

It was always like this. Minho left early and came home late, and in between, the house felt far too big, far too empty. Jeongin had been used to quiet spaces before, but not like this. Not a silence that felt so heavy, so lonely.

The three cats padded around him, offering some comfort. Doongie brushed against his leg, and Jeongin crouched down to pet him, letting his fingers trace the soft fur.

“Looks like it’s just us again, huh?” Jeongin murmured, giving a small smile.

He spent the morning tidying up the house, though it was hardly messy. Jeongin wanted to do something, anything, to make himself useful, to fill the hours. He dusted, organized the books on the shelves, and watered the plants in the garden. The garden had quickly become his favorite spot, a place where he could feel a sense of calm that was otherwise missing in this new life.

Jeongin knelt beside a cluster of flowers, his fingers brushing over the petals. He let himself get lost in the gentle rhythm of tending to the plants, the earthy scent grounding him. Yet, even here, his thoughts wandered back to Minho.

Last night had stung more than he cared to admit. Jeongin had tried to make dinner, something simple but warm, hoping it would bridge the growing gap between them. But Minho hadn’t even glanced at the effort, brushing him off as though it didn’t matter.

Jeongin bit his lip, blinking back the faint sting of tears. He’d known from the beginning that this marriage wasn’t about love or companionship, but some part of him had still hoped for… something.

He shook his head, standing up and brushing the dirt off his hands. “It’s fine,” he whispered to himself. “It’s only been a few days. He’ll warm up eventually… maybe.”

The cats followed him back inside, and Jeongin spent the rest of the day reading in the living room. Soonie curled up beside him on the couch, her soft purring a soothing background noise.

But even the book couldn’t keep his mind occupied for long. Jeongin found himself glancing at the clock every hour, wondering when Minho would be home. Would it be late again? Would he say anything this time, or would he just disappear into his room?

Jeongin sighed, closing the book and setting it aside. He reached down to scratch behind Dori’s ears, his heart heavy.

He didn’t know what he was doing wrong. He didn’t know how to reach Minho, how to even start a conversation that didn’t feel forced. Jeongin had always been shy, but this was different. This wasn’t just shyness; it was fear. Fear of overstepping, of being a burden, of making things worse.

Jeongin’s gaze drifted to the table where the untouched plates from last night had sat for hours before he’d quietly cleaned them up. His stomach twisted at the memory, but he pushed it aside.

“I’ll try again tomorrow,” he said softly, more to himself than anyone else.

Jeongin had always been resilient, even when things were hard. He just had to be patient. Maybe, if he waited long enough, Minho would start to see him. Maybe, one day, this house wouldn’t feel so lonely.

The phone rang, breaking the quiet stillness of the living room. Jeongin glanced at the screen and saw Chan’s name flashing. For a moment, he hesitated, his thumb hovering over the answer button. He knew why Chan was calling, he always checked in, always worried, especially now.

Taking a deep breath, Jeongin answered. “Hyung,” he said, trying to sound cheerful.

“Jeongin,” Chan’s familiar, warm voice greeted him. “How are you? How’s everything going? I’ve been meaning to call sooner, but things got busy.”

“I’m okay,” Jeongin replied, shifting on the couch. He tucked his legs beneath him and rested his chin on his knee. “How about you? How’s work?”

“Don’t change the subject,” Chan teased lightly, but his tone was still full of concern. “I’m asking about you. It’s been a few days since the wedding. How are you settling in? Is Minho treating you well?”

Jeongin froze for a second, his fingers tightening around the phone. The genuine worry in Chan’s voice made his chest ache, but he forced himself to respond calmly. “We’re fine. Everything’s fine, hyung.”

Chan hummed, unconvinced. “Jeongin, you don’t have to pretend with me. If something’s wrong, you can tell me. I know this hasn’t been easy for you.”

Jeongin bit his bottom lip, his heart thudding painfully. He wanted to confide in Chan, to tell him how lonely and uncertain he felt. How Minho barely acknowledged him and how the house felt so cold despite its warmth. But he couldn’t. He didn’t want to put Minho in a bad light, and he didn’t want to seem ungrateful.

“It’s really okay,” Jeongin said, his voice quieter now. “Minho’s just busy with work. We’re still getting used to each other, that’s all.”

There was a pause, and Jeongin could almost feel Chan debating whether to push further. “Alright,” Chan said finally, though his voice was soft with concern. “But promise me you’ll call if you need anything, okay? Anything at all.”

Jeongin forced a small smile, though it felt hollow. “I promise, hyung. Thank you.”

They chatted a little longer, with Chan filling the silence with stories about Seungmin and Jisung. Jeongin listened quietly, nodding along even though Chan couldn’t see him. He was grateful for the distraction, even if it only lasted a few minutes.

When the call ended, Jeongin lowered the phone and stared at it for a moment. The forced smile on his face wavered, and a single tear slipped down his cheek.

Before he could stop it, the dam broke. Silent sobs wracked his small frame, his hands trembling as he clutched the phone to his chest.

Soonie was the first to notice, leaping onto the couch and nuzzling against his arm. Doongie and Dori quickly followed, their warm bodies pressing close to him as if they understood his pain.

Jeongin reached out, his fingers burying themselves in their soft fur. The gentle purring of the cats surrounded him, a small comfort against the overwhelming loneliness he felt.

“It’s okay,” Jeongin whispered through his tears, though he wasn’t sure if he was trying to reassure the cats or himself. “It’s going to be okay.”

But deep down, he wasn’t so sure.

Chapter Text

Jeongin woke up the next day feeling no more rested than the night before. The weight in his chest remained, a constant reminder of the strained relationship he had with Minho. He went about his morning quietly, feeding the cats and preparing a light breakfast. The empty house echoed with his movements, amplifying his loneliness.

After finishing his breakfast, Jeongin decided to tend to the garden again. It had become his solace, a place where he could lose himself in the rhythm of watering plants, pulling weeds, and tending to the flowers. As he crouched near the lilies, the sound of his phone vibrating startled him. He wiped his hands on his pants and picked it up, his heart sinking when he saw Seungmin’s name on the screen.

He hesitated for a moment before answering, his voice as steady as he could make it. “Seungmin-ah.”

“Jeongin,” Seungmin greeted warmly. “How are you? I haven’t heard from you since the wedding.”

“I’m fine,” Jeongin replied, his tone neutral. “Just… adjusting.”

Seungmin paused, and Jeongin could practically hear the concern in his silence. “Are you sure? You don’t sound fine.”

“I’m okay,” Jeongin insisted, forcing a small laugh. “It’s just… new, you know? A lot to get used to.”

Seungmin didn’t respond immediately, and Jeongin’s grip on the phone tightened. “Jeongin, if you ever need to talk or if things get too hard, you can always call me. You don’t have to do this alone.”

“I know,” Jeongin said quietly. “Thank you, Seungmin.”

They chatted for a few more minutes, with Seungmin trying to lighten the mood by sharing stories about Jisung’s latest antics. Jeongin listened, smiling faintly as Seungmin described Jisung’s failed attempts at cooking dinner the night before.

When the call ended, Jeongin set the phone down and stared at it for a long moment. The tightness in his chest grew, and before he knew it, tears were slipping down his cheeks. He buried his face in his hands, the sobs coming unbidden.

Soonie, Doongie, and Dori must have sensed his distress, because within moments, all three cats were by his side. Soonie rubbed against his arm, while Doongie and Dori pressed close to his legs, their soft purring a small comfort in the midst of his pain.

Jeongin reached out, his fingers trembling as he stroked their fur. “I’m okay,” he whispered to them, his voice shaky. “It’s just… hard.”

He stayed like that for a while, letting the tears fall as the cats stayed by his side. They were his only source of comfort in the house, and for that, he was endlessly grateful.

When the tears finally subsided, Jeongin wiped his face and took a deep breath. He glanced at the clock, realizing it was almost lunchtime. Maybe he could prepare something special.

“Alright,” he said softly to the cats, who were still watching him with their curious eyes. “Let’s make lunch.”

As he worked in the kitchen, Jeongin tried to focus on the task at hand, pushing the lingering sadness to the back of his mind. He didn’t know if Minho would eat with him, but he wanted to try.

Because trying was all he could do.

By the time Minho left the office, the city had settled into its quiet nighttime rhythm. He drove home in silence, the radio off, the sound of his own thoughts louder than any song could be.

When he pulled into the driveway, he noticed the faint glow of the living room light. He hesitated for a moment before stepping out of the car, his usual cool composure faltering slightly.

As he unlocked the door and stepped inside, the smell of something warm and comforting greeted him. His eyes immediately landed on the table. There were two plates again, neatly arranged, and a dish in the center still covered to keep it warm.

Jeongin was in the kitchen, his back turned as he busied himself with something. Minho noticed how he moved quietly, as though afraid to disturb the house.

Jeongin turned when he heard the door click shut. His eyes widened slightly, and for a moment, the two of them just stood there, staring at each other.

“Welcome home,” Jeongin said softly, his voice tentative but sincere.

Minho’s eyes flicked to the table. “Did you wait for me again?”

Jeongin hesitated, then nodded. “I thought... maybe you’d want something warm when you got home.”

Something about the earnestness in Jeongin’s voice irritated Minho. Or maybe it wasn’t irritating. It was guilt, wrapped tightly in frustration. He didn’t respond, instead walking toward the stairs.

“You should stop waiting for me,” Minho said over his shoulder, his tone colder than he intended.

Jeongin flinched, and Minho hated the way he noticed it. He reached the first step but stopped when Jeongin spoke.

“Minho.”

The sound of his name, said so gentle yet with such weight, made him pause. He didn’t turn around, but he listened.

“I... I know this isn’t easy for either of us,” Jeongin continued, his voice trembling slightly. “But I’m trying. I really am. So please... don’t shut me out completely.”

Minho turned his head slightly, just enough to see Jeongin standing there with his hands clasped tightly in front of him. His wide, expressive eyes glistened in the soft light, and Minho hated how much it tugged at something inside him.

“I didn’t ask you to try,” Minho said, his voice quieter but no less sharp. “Don’t expect me to meet you halfway.”

With that, he climbed the stairs, leaving Jeongin standing alone in the dimly lit kitchen.

Upstairs, Minho leaned against the closed door of his bedroom, exhaling heavily. He felt like a coward, running from something he couldn’t even name. The look on Jeongin’s face haunted him, but he pushed it aside.

This was for the best, he told himself. Jeongin was better off learning now that Minho wasn’t the partner he deserved. Better to disappoint him early than to let him hope for something that would never come.

Yet, as Minho sat on the edge of his bed, staring at the darkened room, he couldn’t shake the image of Jeongin’s pleading eyes. For a moment, he considered going back downstairs. But the thought alone made his chest tighten with fear.

Instead, he leaned back, closing his eyes, and told himself that tomorrow would be just another day. Another day to keep his distance. Another day to protect himself from whatever Jeongin was stirring inside him.

Minho’s morning started with a heavy silence that hung over the house. He sat at the dining table, nursing a cup of coffee while his laptop was open in front of him. The usual buzz of emails and notifications filled the air, but his focus wavered.

Jeongin entered the room quietly, wearing a soft, oversized sweater that made him look smaller than usual. His steps were light, almost hesitant, as if he didn’t want to disturb Minho. He paused when he saw Minho at the table, his eyes darting to the untouched plate of breakfast he’d set earlier.

“Good morning,” Jeongin said softly.

Minho glanced up, his expression neutral. “Morning.”

Jeongin lingered near the counter, fiddling with the hem of his sweater. “I, um, made breakfast. It’s probably cold now, but I can heat it up if you’d like.”

“I’m fine,” Minho replied, his voice clipped. He gestured to his coffee. “This is enough for now.”

Jeongin’s face fell slightly, but he quickly masked it with a small smile. “Alright. Let me know if you change your mind.”

Minho gave a noncommittal hum, already looking back at his laptop.

Jeongin moved around the kitchen, tidying up as quietly as possible. The sound of dishes being washed filled the silence, and Minho found himself glancing at Jeongin every now and then. The omega worked with practiced efficiency, his movements careful and precise.

It struck Minho how much Jeongin blended into the background soft, unobtrusive, and gentle. Too gentle for someone like him.

When Jeongin finally finished, he wiped his hands on a towel and hesitated by the doorway. “I’ll be in the garden if you need me,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Minho nodded without looking up, and Jeongin quietly slipped away.

The house felt emptier after he left, and Minho tried to bury himself in work to ignore the strange pang in his chest. But his thoughts kept drifting to Jeongin—how he’d waited for him the night before, the disappointment in his eyes when Minho brushed him off.

It wasn’t like Minho to dwell on things. He was used to compartmentalizing, to keeping his emotions tightly locked away. Yet, Jeongin’s presence seemed to slip through the cracks, no matter how much he tried to shut it out.

By the time he finished his coffee, the morning sun had shifted higher in the sky, casting warm light through the windows. Minho stood, stretching out the stiffness in his shoulders. He glanced toward the garden, where he could see Jeongin kneeling by the flower beds.

For a fleeting moment, he considered stepping outside. Maybe he could join Jeongin, make some kind of effort. But the thought made his chest tighten with unease, and he shook it off.

Instead, he went upstairs to prepare for the day, pushing the idea of Jeongin to the back of his mind. For now, work was his escape. Anything else could wait.

Minho was in his study, reviewing contracts and spreadsheets, when the sound of the doorbell broke his concentration. He glanced at the clock, just past noon. His brow furrowed. He wasn’t expecting anyone, and Jeongin rarely had visitors.

Moments later, Jeongin’s soft voice carried through the door. “Minho, your parents are here.”

Minho’s hand stilled on his pen. His parents? A headache already threatened to form as he set the pen down and stood. He hadn’t invited them, but he wasn’t surprised. His mother had been sending increasingly probing messages since the wedding. It was only a matter of time before she decided to make an unannounced visit.

Taking a deep breath, he made his way to the living room.

His parents were just inside the door, dressed impeccably as always. His mother was holding Jeongin’s hands, her smile warm but undoubtedly scrutinizing. His father stood a step behind her, arms crossed, his expression stern but cordial.

“Mom. Dad,” Minho greeted, his voice polite but devoid of enthusiasm.

“Minho!” his mother exclaimed, her face lighting up as she turned to him. “We thought it was about time we visited. After all, it’s been over a week since the wedding.”

Minho’s eyes flicked to Jeongin, who stood beside her like a deer caught in headlights. His hands were clasped tightly in front of him, his shoulders stiff. He was clearly uncomfortable but doing his best to remain polite.

“You didn’t have to come all this way,” Minho said, stepping closer but maintaining a noticeable distance from Jeongin.

“Nonsense,” his mother replied, brushing off his comment with a wave of her hand. “We wanted to see how you two are settling in. And...” Her tone shifted, becoming pointed. “We had a few things we wanted to discuss.”

Minho’s jaw tightened. He had a sinking feeling he knew where this was going.

His mother’s gaze darted between him and Jeongin, her eyes lingering on their necks. “It’s been over a week,” she began delicately, though her tone held an edge. “And yet... neither of you is bearing a mating mark.”

Jeongin’s face flushed a deep crimson, and he quickly ducked his head, his gaze fixed on the floor. Minho crossed his arms over his chest, his expression hardening.

“We’re taking things slow,” he said curtly.

“Slow?” his mother repeated, her brows knitting together in disapproval. “Minho, darling, you’re an alpha. You know how important it is to solidify your bond. The gods chose Jeongin for you, shouldn't you honor that?”

“Mother,” Minho said, his tone carrying a warning.

“And,” she pressed on, ignoring him entirely, “we were hoping you might have some good news soon. A grandchild, perhaps? You know how long we’ve been waiting for this.”

Jeongin’s head snapped up at that, his wide eyes darting to Minho in a panic. Minho felt a flicker of guilt, though his irritation quickly overshadowed it.

“We’re not there yet,” Minho said firmly, his voice icy. “And frankly, that’s none of your business.”

His mother’s smile faltered, her disappointment evident. His father cleared his throat, stepping in. “Minho, your mother only means well,” he said, his tone measured. “This isn’t just about you. It’s about the family legacy. Your union is important, not just for you but for all of us.”

Jeongin’s hands twisted nervously in front of him, and Minho resisted the urge to snap at his father. Jeongin didn’t deserve this being dragged into the weight of expectations he hadn’t asked for.

“We’ll handle things in our own time,” Minho said, his voice steel.

His mother sighed, clearly displeased but sensing she wouldn’t win this argument. She turned back to Jeongin, her expression softening. “Jeongin, dear, how are you finding the house? Is Minho treating you well?”

Jeongin hesitated, his lips parting as if searching for the right words. He glanced briefly at Minho before forcing a small, polite smile. “Yes, ma’am. The house is beautiful, and Minho has been... kind.”

Minho noted the slight hesitation in Jeongin’s voice, but his parents seemed satisfied with the answer.

“Well, that’s good to hear,” his mother said, patting Jeongin’s hand gently. “You’re part of our family now, Jeongin. We only want what’s best for you.”

Jeongin nodded, though he didn’t look entirely reassured.

The visit dragged on longer than Minho would have liked. His parents settled on the couch, sipping tea and discussing family matters, their conversation laced with thinly veiled advice about marriage and bonding.

Jeongin remained quiet for most of it, answering when directly addressed but otherwise keeping his head down. Minho, on the other hand, maintained a stony silence, his irritation simmering just below the surface.

When his parents finally decided to leave, Jeongin let out a small, shaky breath, his shoulders sagging with relief as soon as the door closed behind them.

“You okay?” Minho asked, his voice quieter than usual.

Jeongin nodded quickly, his eyes fixed on the floor. “I’m fine. They’re... nice.”

Minho huffed a humorless laugh. “They’re persistent, that’s what they are.”

Jeongin didn’t respond, instead busying himself with clearing the tea cups his mother had insisted on using. Minho watched him for a moment, the weight of his mother’s words pressing heavily on his mind.

A mating mark. A child.

Minho clenched his fists. The expectations were suffocating, and he hated how easily they found their way into his thoughts.

Jeongin moved quietly around the room, his movements precise and careful, as if he didn’t want to disturb Minho. He worked in silence, but Minho noticed the tension in his shoulders, the way his hands trembled slightly as he carried the tray to the kitchen.

Minho turned away, heading back to his study. He needed to bury himself in work, to distract himself from the nagging voice in his head telling him that maybe, just maybe, his parents were right.

Chapter Text

After Minho’s parents left, the house fell into an uncomfortable silence. Jeongin had spent the last hour cleaning up after their visit, meticulously wiping down surfaces and putting the teacups away. Minho had retreated to his study, the door firmly shut behind him.

It wasn’t until the sound of the vacuum faded and the clink of the last plate being set down on the dish rack echoed through the kitchen that Jeongin finally allowed himself to think. His parents-in-law’s words kept circling his mind, particularly the pointed questions about their bond, or lack thereof.

With a deep breath, Jeongin wiped his hands on a dish towel and made his way to the study. His heart thudded in his chest as he approached, unsure of how to even start the conversation. But he couldn’t let it fester any longer. If they were supposed to make this work, even as a formality, they needed to talk about it.

He knocked softly on the door.

“Come in,” Minho’s voice called out, sounding weary.

Jeongin pushed the door open, his eyes landing on Minho hunched over his desk, papers scattered around him. Minho didn’t look up immediately, scribbling something onto one of the documents before finally leaning back in his chair and meeting Jeongin’s gaze.

“Do you need something?” Minho asked, his tone neutral.

Jeongin hesitated, shifting on his feet. “I wanted to talk about... earlier. About what your parents said.”

Minho’s eyes flickered, a hint of annoyance crossing his features, though it wasn’t directed at Jeongin. He exhaled sharply, setting his pen down and gesturing for Jeongin to continue.

“They were asking about why we haven’t... mated yet,” Jeongin said, his cheeks flushing as the words left his mouth.

Minho’s jaw tightened. “It’s none of their business.”

“I know,” Jeongin said quickly. “But... isn’t it a little strange? We’re married now. Shouldn’t we have...” He trailed off, his voice growing quieter.

Minho leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk. “What are you trying to say, Jeongin?”

Jeongin fidgeted with the hem of his shirt, his gaze dropping to the floor. “I just... I’m wondering why we haven’t done it yet. Is it because of me? Because you don’t...” He hesitated, his voice barely above a whisper. “...want me?”

Minho’s brows furrowed, guilt tugging at him. He hadn’t meant to make Jeongin feel unwanted, but the truth was more complicated than he could explain.

“It’s not that,” Minho said after a moment, his voice steady but distant. “I just think... it’s better to wait.”

Jeongin looked up, confusion written all over his face. “Wait for what?”

“For your heat,” Minho said quickly, grasping onto the excuse as it formed in his mind. “It’ll be easier for you that way.”

Jeongin blinked, clearly taken aback. “Oh... I see.”

“When is it?” Minho asked, leaning back in his chair and folding his arms across his chest.

Jeongin hesitated, his fingers twisting nervously. “In a few days,” he admitted, his voice soft.

Minho nodded, his expression unreadable. “Then we’ll handle it then.”

The words hung in the air, heavier than either of them expected.

Jeongin bit his lip, uncertainty flashing in his eyes. “Are you sure?”

“Yes,” Minho said firmly, though his tone lacked warmth. “It’s better this way.”

Jeongin nodded slowly, though his unease was clear. He clasped his hands in front of him, his shoulders tense. “Okay,” he said quietly. “Thank you for being considerate.”

Minho didn’t respond, his gaze shifting to the papers on his desk as if dismissing the conversation. Jeongin took the hint, turning to leave the room.

As the door clicked shut behind him, Minho sighed, running a hand through his hair. He hadn’t meant to sound so cold, but he didn’t know how else to navigate this. The thought of mating with Jeongin, of making their bond permanent, made his chest tighten in ways he didn’t want to examine.

Jeongin, meanwhile, returned to the living room, his chest heavy with conflicting emotions. He tried to focus on the comfort of the cats, Soon-ie curling up in his lap while Doong-ie and Dori played nearby. But even their soft purring couldn’t quiet the doubts swirling in his mind.

Why did it feel like Minho was always keeping him at arm’s length? And why did it hurt so much to feel unwanted by someone he barely knew?

Minho stepped into the living room, his gaze immediately fixing on Jeongin and his cats. Soonie, Doongie, and Dori, his three male cats, were sprawled around the omega like he was their world. Soonie had claimed Jeongin’s lap, purring contentedly as the omega absentmindedly ran his hand through his fur. Doongie lay next to him, completely relaxed, while Dori rested on the back of the couch, lazily watching Jeongin with an almost loving gaze.

Minho froze in the doorway, his eyes narrowing. His cats, his territory, were practically all over Jeongin, ignoring him entirely. That was... unexpected. Soonie, the aloof one, had always kept his distance, and the others were hardly affectionate towards anyone but him. But there they were, completely captivated by Jeongin’s presence.

Minho’s jaw tightened, but he didn’t let the anger slip through. He kept his expression neutral, cold even, as he took a step forward.

Jeongin, noticing him, looked up quickly, his eyes widening with an almost guilty look. He immediately tried to shift Soonie off his lap, but the cat stubbornly refused to budge.

“Oh,” Jeongin said, his voice quiet, “you’re done?”

Minho didn’t respond right away. He stood still, taking in the scene before him, his lips pressing into a thin line. His cats, his pride and joy, had chosen to give all their attention to Jeongin without even a glance in his direction.

“Didn’t realize I was interrupting something,” Minho said in a tone that was sharp, cold, carefully devoid of warmth.

Jeongin quickly shifted, clearly uncomfortable under the weight of Minho’s gaze. He avoided looking at him directly, focusing instead on petting the cats. “I... didn’t think they’d be so comfortable around me,” Jeongin said quietly, his voice laced with uncertainty.

Minho’s eyes flicked over to the cats again, his irritation bubbling just beneath the surface. They had always been hard to please, but now, they were all over Jeongin, as if he were the one they belonged to. It pissed him off more than he cared to admit. He didn’t say anything at first, watching them for a moment longer, before he finally spoke.

“They’ve always been picky,” Minho muttered, his tone flat and dismissive. “Didn’t think they'd get attached this quickly.”

Jeongin glanced up at him then, but Minho didn’t look at him directly. He kept his gaze focused on the cats, his posture stiff.

“I didn’t mean to make them favor me,” Jeongin said softly, the sincerity in his voice almost a little too much. “It wasn’t my intention.”

Minho shrugged nonchalantly, his face still cold. “Doesn’t matter. They can do whatever they want.”

The words hung in the air between them, tension thick in the room. Jeongin seemed to want to say something, but he kept quiet, clearly sensing Minho’s distance. Minho, for his part, wasn’t about to break the silence. He was done pretending there was anything more than necessity keeping them together.

He turned his back to Jeongin, dismissing him with a few short steps toward the kitchen.

“Let me know when you’re done with them,” Minho called out, his voice low and disinterested, as though this little scene hadn’t affected him at all.

Jeongin stayed quiet, the weight of Minho’s cold indifference pressing down on him.

Minho could hear the soft shuffle of footsteps behind him as Jeongin stood up, no doubt trying to regain some semblance of normalcy in the strained atmosphere. Minho didn’t turn around to check if Jeongin had followed or if the cats had finally decided to leave him alone. He didn’t want to know.

He opened the fridge, pulling out a bottle of water, and unscrewed the cap with a slow, deliberate motion. He wasn’t hungry. He hadn’t been hungry for days, but he needed something to fill the space, the silence.

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Jeongin standing there, looking unsure of what to do next. Minho could feel the tension rising between them, but he couldn’t, wouldn’t, be the one to break it. Not now. Not after everything.

Jeongin took a cautious step forward, his voice tentative when he spoke. “Do you need anything? I could make something, or... we could talk?”

Minho’s jaw clenched at the suggestion. He didn’t want to talk. The last thing he wanted was to delve deeper into whatever this... situation was. The thought of getting closer, of breaking down the walls he’d built so carefully around himself, felt suffocating. He was fine the way things were.

“I’m fine,” Minho said coldly, his back still turned to Jeongin as he took a long drink from the bottle.

Silence filled the room again, but this time, it wasn’t comforting. Minho could sense Jeongin’s eyes on him, his uncertainty radiating through the space like an electric charge. The omega hadn’t asked for this. He hadn’t asked for a cold, distant partner who didn’t know how to open up.

Minho wasn’t sure how long they stood there in that uncomfortable quiet, the tension thickening with every passing second. Finally, Jeongin spoke again, his voice barely above a whisper. “I... I just want things to be okay between us, Minho.”

Minho’s fingers tightened around the bottle in his hand. He wasn’t sure why those words affected him the way they did. Maybe it was the honesty in Jeongin’s voice. Maybe it was the quiet desperation that lingered in the air. Whatever it was, it made something stir inside of him, something he hadn’t allowed himself to feel in a long time.

“I don’t know if things can just be okay,” Minho muttered under his breath, his tone sharp with frustration. “I don’t know what you expect, Jeongin.”

Jeongin took a cautious step forward, his eyes wide with uncertainty but also a hint of hope. “I’m not expecting anything. I just... I want to understand. I want to know how to make this work.”

Minho spun around then, his gaze cold and unyielding. “I didn’t ask for this either. This... marriage. The bond. All of it.” His voice had risen without him meaning to, and he immediately regretted it, but the words had already been said.

Jeongin’s expression faltered, and Minho could see the hurt flicker across his face before he masked it with a smile that didn’t reach his eyes.

“I know,” Jeongin said softly, almost too quietly. “But I’m still here, Minho. I’m still trying.”

Minho looked at him for a long moment, his chest tightening. He didn’t know what to say, didn’t know how to make the words come out right. This wasn’t how he’d imagined things would go.

He wasn’t built for this. He wasn’t built to let someone in, to let someone try and understand the mess that was him.

Finally, he sighed, rubbing a hand over his face in frustration. “Just... just give me some space, okay? I need some time.”

Jeongin nodded, his lips pressed into a thin line. He turned away slowly, heading towards the living room, leaving Minho alone in the kitchen with his thoughts.

As the silence closed in around him, Minho couldn’t shake the feeling that something had changed. It wasn’t just the way Jeongin looked at him, or the way the cats had clung to him so easily. No, it was something deeper. Something that felt like it was creeping up on him, slowly but steadily.

But Minho didn’t want to face it. Not now. Not yet.

He finished the water and set the bottle down on the counter. Then, without another word, he walked out of the kitchen and towards his study, leaving Jeongin alone with the cats.

Chapter Text

Jeongin sat on the couch, trying to focus on the quiet sounds of the house, but his mind was racing. The soft ticking of the clock seemed to echo in the room as he clutched a throw pillow tightly against his chest. He had been doing his best to stay calm, but the feeling, no, the pressure, was building within him.

He hadn’t realized just how much his body had been changing over the past few days. At first, it had been subtle, an unusual warmth under his skin, a heightened sensitivity to everything around him. He hadn’t thought much of it, chalking it up to the stress of the wedding, the adjustment to his new life with Minho. But now, there was no denying it.

His pre-heat was starting.

Jeongin shifted uncomfortably on the couch, trying to focus on the feel of the soft fabric against his skin, trying to ground himself in the present. But his body felt like it was betraying him. Every small movement sent waves of heat spreading through his veins, his body becoming more aware of every touch, every breath, every sound. He could feel the subtle flush on his skin, the way his pulse quickened with every small sensation.

His scent had already started to shift, a faint, floral trace becoming noticeable, but it was still faint. He wasn’t yet in full heat, but he could feel it looming, the way his body was slowly gearing up for what was to come.

He had tried to keep it together, to keep his composure, but the growing pressure inside of him was becoming harder to ignore. Jeongin closed his eyes, trying to steady his breathing. He didn’t want to be a burden on Minho, not like this. He didn’t want to disrupt their already fragile dynamic with the overwhelming scent and the feelings of need that came with his heat. But the feeling was undeniable, and no amount of willpower could stop it.

Jeongin felt a soft, familiar presence approaching, and before he even looked up, the cats were at his side. Soonie, Doongie, and Dori, their warm bodies pressed close to him, nuzzling into him with comforting purrs. For a moment, it helped. Their presence, their gentle attention, made him feel a little more grounded.

But it didn’t erase the constant ache building within him. His body was betraying him in ways he hadn’t fully prepared for. His scent was still faint, but soon it would become overwhelming. He’d be in full heat soon, and it terrified him.

He could feel the need deep in his chest, his stomach tightening with the familiar sense of longing that came when the hormones started to surge. But what terrified him more than the physical sensations was the fact that Minho hadn’t yet acknowledged their bond in any way. They hadn’t even mated, and now, Jeongin was going to be left to deal with this on his own. 

There was still so much distance between them. So much tension. So much uncertainty. How was he supposed to tell Minho. Jeongin wasn’t sure what to expect when the heat hit. Would Minho help him? 

Tears welled up in his eyes as he pressed the pillow tighter against his chest. He didn’t want to be a burden. He didn’t want to make things harder for Minho, but at the same time, he couldn’t ignore what was happening inside of him.

Sighing shakily, he wiped at his eyes, forcing the tears to stop. He could hear the faint sound of footsteps outside the room, and without looking up, he instinctively knew it was Minho. His presence was unmistakable, even if the air between them felt cold. Jeongin didn’t look up, didn’t want to show how fragile he felt right now. He just wished he could find a way to get through this without becoming too much of an inconvenience.

But the heat was coming, and it was coming fast. He could feel it rising within him like a wave, and he was helpless against it. The question was, would Minho be there when it hit?

Jeongin hugged the pillow tighter, taking shallow breaths, and closed his eyes. He didn’t want to think about it anymore. He couldn’t. He had to wait. He had to hope.

The ache in Jeongin's body had only grown worse as the day wore on. His pre-heat was escalating faster than he had anticipated, the warmth spreading through his limbs, and the tightening in his chest becoming more suffocating by the minute. He could feel his pulse quickening, his breath shallow, and the need, raw, uncontrollable, settling deep within him.

His skin tingled with sensitivity, every fabric, every touch, feeling heightened, like his senses were amplifying in overdrive. The pressure was unbearable, a storm slowly building inside him, and Jeongin didn’t know how much longer he could keep himself together.

He had tried to distract himself, focusing on the cats who were still nearby, trying to offer him comfort. But their presence, despite their usual warmth and affection, was no longer enough. Jeongin needed something, someone.

Minho.

He grabbed his phone from the coffee table, his hands shaking slightly, trying to remain steady. He unlocked it quickly and dialed Minho’s number, praying that he would pick up, that Minho would hear him, that he would do something. Anything.

The phone rang.

And rang.

Jeongin's heart pounded in his chest, and by the time the voicemail kicked in, a sense of panic began to crawl up his throat. He hung up quickly, trying to steady himself, and dialed again. The phone rang. And rang. No answer.

A tremble ran through him as his body reacted to the waves of heat crashing over him. His breathing became erratic, his chest tight with the anticipation of what was coming. He felt vulnerable, exposed, completely at the mercy of his own biology.

Come on, Minho, please...

He dialed again. This time, he barely registered the ringing before it went to voicemail. He let the phone fall into his lap, feeling the tears start to well up again. His throat constricted as the realization set in. Minho wasn’t answering. He wasn’t even home. And Jeongin was alone, alone with this rising heat that was making him feel like he was about to break.

His hands gripped his phone harder, his chest tightening with the anxiety that had been steadily creeping up on him. The scent of his heat was faint still, but it was growing stronger, and he could feel it in the way his body was responding. It was almost suffocating.

He let out a shaky breath, trying to hold it together as best as he could. His vision blurred, and he wiped at his eyes, feeling the overwhelming pressure build up inside. He couldn’t keep doing this. Not by himself.

“Minho…” he whispered, his voice trembling.

But there was no reply.

Frustration bubbled up inside him as he let out a shaky breath. He called again, his fingers moving frantically over the screen. He tried not to focus on the burning ache in his chest, the pulse in his body screaming at him to do something.

Please, Minho...

The phone rang again, and Jeongin’s grip tightened, but the call ended just as quickly. Voicemail again. He wanted to scream, but he couldn’t. His body was betraying him, and the loneliness that crept over him, combined with the growing intensity of his heat, felt like it was suffocating him. He was alone, and he needed Minho, needed someone, but the empty buzzing of the voicemail was all that greeted him.

He placed the phone down, his hands trembling in his lap, his chest heaving with shallow breaths. His skin was burning with a heat that wasn’t his own, his scent swirling faintly in the air, and yet Minho wasn’t there to help him.

What do I do?

Jeongin closed his eyes and curled in on himself, the weight of his emotions threatening to break him. Every inch of his body felt on fire, each breath a little harder to take. He tried again, one last time, dialing Minho’s number once more, his heart pounding as the phone rang.

It was getting worse, and Minho wasn’t answering.

Minho stepped into the house, his tie already loosened and his coat slung over one arm. The house was eerily quiet, a stark contrast to the warm welcome he usually received from his three cats or the faint hum of Jeongin moving around in the kitchen. Tonight, there was no aroma of dinner being prepared, no soft voice greeting him at the door, and no sign of Jeongin anywhere.

Frowning, he placed his coat on the back of the couch and walked into the kitchen. It was untouched, the counters spotless, and no sign of a meal even attempted. Minho’s brow furrowed deeper. Jeongin was nothing if not consistent, he always prepared something, even if it was just a simple dish or a bowl of warm soup.

"Where is he?" Minho murmured under his breath, his unease growing.

A soft, plaintive meow broke the silence. Minho turned toward the staircase, spotting Soonie’s familiar head peeking out from above. Another meow followed, this time from Doongie, and Minho’s frown deepened when he saw all three of his cats outside Jeongin’s bedroom door, tails flicking anxiously.

"What’s got you three so worked up?" Minho muttered as he climbed the stairs. The cats were rarely this agitated. They scratched lightly at the door, their heads occasionally tilting as though listening to something beyond it.

When he reached the door, Minho paused, his hand hovering mid-air to knock. A sound came from inside, soft, breathy, and... pained? No, it wasn’t pain. It was...

A shaky, muffled moan reached his ears, sending a jolt through Minho’s body. His wolf stirred instantly, claws scraping at the surface of his control. He hesitated, his heart hammering in his chest as the scent began to seep through the cracks of the door. Sweet and overwhelming, it rolled over him in waves, intoxicating and heavy with desperation.

He knocked lightly, his voice low and steady. "Jeongin?"

There was no response, only the sound of ragged breathing from the other side. Minho knocked again, more firmly this time. "Jeongin, are you okay?"

Still, there was no answer. The cats meowed louder, pacing outside the door, their agitation feeding Minho’s growing concern. Without waiting any longer, he gripped the handle and pushed the door open slowly.

The scent hit him like a freight train, so potent and cloying that he nearly staggered. His wolf snarled, demanding release, his alpha instincts surging to the forefront. The room was dimly lit, curtains drawn, and in the center of the bed was Jeongin.

The bed itself was a mess, blankets and pillows scattered haphazardly in what could only be described as a makeshift nest. Jeongin was curled up in the middle of it, his body glistening with sweat, his chest rising and falling rapidly. His usually pristine hair was damp and sticking to his forehead, and the faint flush on his cheeks was now a deep crimson.

Jeongin’s boxers clung to him, his lean frame trembling as if he were holding on by a thread. His head turned slowly, glassy, half-lidded eyes locking onto Minho’s as though sensing his presence before seeing him.

"Minho..." Jeongin’s voice was weak, trembling as he tried to push himself up but failed, his arms giving out. His breathing hitched as he chanted again, "Minho... please... please."

Minho stood frozen in the doorway, his entire body taut as a bowstring. His wolf howled in his chest, urging him forward, drawn by the pleading tone in Jeongin’s voice and the scent saturating the room. It was everywhere, enveloping him in a cocoon of sweetness that made it impossible to think straight.

Jeongin’s lips parted, a soft whimper escaping before he whispered, "I’m in heat... please... you promised you’d help."

The words were a dagger to Minho’s resolve, tearing through his carefully constructed walls. His knuckles turned white as he gripped the doorframe, trying to ground himself, but his wolf was relentless.

Jeongin shifted slightly, his body arching ever so slightly toward Minho, his voice breaking as he called again, "Minho... Alpha... please."

Minho clenched his jaw, his nails biting into his palm. His control was slipping, unraveling with every shaky breath Jeongin took and every syllable of his name.

He took a step forward, and then another, his movements slow and deliberate as though fighting every instinct telling him to rush forward and claim what was his. Jeongin’s eyes, glassy with tears, tracked his every move, his lips trembling as he whispered, "Please, Alpha... I need you."

Minho’s wolf snarled in triumph, and his resolve shattered completely.

Chapter Text

Minho’s resolve broke, giving in to his primal instincts, his wolf masking his movements in an almost imperceptible blur. He approached the bed, eyes locked onto Jeongin's plea-filled gaze, a sight that would forever be etched in his mind, fueling his desire to claim what he had once promised.

With a gentleness belying the animalistic frenzy boiling beneath his skin, Minho reached out and brushed a damp strand of hair off Jeongin's face. 

His fingertips trembled, a reflection of the overwhelming need clawing at his insides. "Shh," he whispered, voice deep and gravelly. "I'm here, Jeongin. I told you I'd help you."

Jeongin's eyes fluttered closed, his lips parting on a shaky breath as Minho's touch sent a shiver down his spine. A small whimper escaped him, and his slender arms wrapped around Minho's neck, clinging desperately as if he feared the other man would slip away.

Minho's hands, now steady and sure, reached for the collar of Jeongin's shirt and tore it open, buttons flying across the room to land with a soft rustle on the floor. The wolf in him roared for skin-to-skin contact, for the subtle tang of sweat and musk, and he would have it. He would devour every part of Jeongin, imprinting his mark on the smaller man's very essence.

Jeongin gasped as the cool air met his skin, goosebumps rising in his wake. He was exposed, vulnerable in his need, an offering that Minho greedily accepted. His lips trailed across Jeongin's jaw, teeth scraping deliciously along the tendon as he growled, "Mine," in the primal tone the wolf demanded.

Jeongin shuddered, arching against Minho's stronger body, skin slippery with perspiration. "M-mi-" His whimper was cut off as Minho captured his lips with a searing kiss, dominating the whimpering male with everything he had.

He tore his lips away, breathing heavily as his hands roamed Jeongin's body, mapping every curve and plane with a restless hunger. The desire to claim and possess was palpable, his determination to ensure Jeongin knew he was in safe, capable hands driving every touch and sensation.

Jeongin writhed beneath Minho's touch, gasping and meowing like a helpless kitten in heat. Minho growled softly, pleased by Jeongin's reaction, the overwhelming need to make him feel even more enslaved by lust clawing at his insides.

With a commanding hand, Minho shoved Jeongin's boxers down his hips, watching as they fell, unnoticed, to the floor. He drank in the sight of Jeongin's flushed, toned body, exposed and trembling before him. Unable to restrain himself any longer, Minho's control snapped completely, and the wolf took over.

His movements became swift and almost feral, unrelenting in his desperate craving to claim every inch of Jeongin's body. He captured the reddened lips once more, silencing Jeongin's needy sounds and replacing them with a rough groan of satisfaction as he began to take him ruthlessly.

Undoing his own pants, Minho kicked them away, kicking them aside without a second thought. The wolf in him craved nothing more than to bury himself deep within Jeongin, to mark and claim his mate with one savage thrust. He growled low in his chest, a warning to Jeongin that giving into this primal need was necessary for the wolf.

His free hand fisted in Jeongin's hair, tugging him to expose his throat, a silent command to offer himself completely. Jeongin, lost in his pinnacle of ecstasy and desire, relinquished any control he had, submitting completely to Minho, the alpha that would satisfy his yearning.

Their bodies collided in a frenzied dance of lust and desperation, skin slapping against skin, marking Jeongin's every curve with their mingled perspiration. Minho's hips drove hard, relentlessly pumping into Jeongin as he fought the need to truly unleash the beast within and claim him completely.

Jeongin writhed and bucked, his body seemingly trying to crawl deeper into Minho's. He cried out, his voice hoarse and hurting with too much need, desperate for relief and fulfillment. Pleasured moans fell from his haggard lips, pleasure dripping down his thighs, each stroke pulling a rougher, more bestial growl from Minho.

Their pace increased, wild, mindless, primal, each thrust driving deeper and harder as Minho lost himself in the sensation of their coupling, his wolf reveling in the taste, scent, and feel of Jeongin's investment in him.

Jeongin's broken cries grew more frantic, hips bucking wildly, his body coiled tight like a spring, aching for release as the scent of his wanton need grew stronger- more intoxicating with each deep, pleasured cry.

Minho is steadfast in his intentions, held firm, carefully guiding Jeongin into a sitting position, and with a powerful motion, he thrust upwards, knotting deep inside Jeongin's warmth. He captured Jeongin's gasp with a deep, soul-stirring kiss as their bodies were joined, marking him as Minho's.

Jeongin, frantic with need, whimpered and begged, his voice hoarse as he whispered fervently, "Mate me…please…mark me...please Alpha," his words sending a shiver down Minho's spine. Startled by the depth of their shared connection, the wolf in Minho roared, and he hesitated for a brief moment, his newfound vulnerability threatening to surface. 

But Jeongin, persistent and unyielding, seized the opportunity when Minho was momentarily off balance, nuzzling against his neck, and biting down on the sensitive skin covering the scent gland. The sharp sensation seared through Minho's bloodstream, and the urge to claim his mate overtook him.

With a snarl, Minho growled, his hips bucking against Jeongin's, his rhythm never breaking. Their passionate movements became an intense, flawless dance, each meeting of their bodies a testament to the fire that burned between them. Minho took Jeongin's face in his large hands, and with an inhuman strength, he yanked Jeongin down into another fierce kiss.

Accepting his submission, the touch of Jeongin's lips against his, soft, warm, and utterly inviting – pushed Minho over the edge. He knew, in that moment, that they were truly bound together and that Jeongin's scent marked him as his.

As the final waves of pleasure, punctuated by the way his knot secured them at their intimate apex, swept through them, Minho tilted his head to the side, exposing the vulnerable spot Jeongin had bitten earlier. With a tender bite, he simultaneously drank in Jeongin's scent and marked him, sealing their connection for the rest of their lives.

Jeongin's body shuddered and writhed – every nerve-ending pulsating in delight, his hips grinding against Minho's as the pleasure seemed oncoming relentlessly. Minho held him tighter, stroking his spine, soothing him through the storm of sensations while biting him gently, allowing the wolf essence to mix and flow between them.

Finally, spent and sated, Minho and Jeongin collapsed onto the tangled sheets, his knot slowly softening as their heartbeats slowed and calmed. Minho pressed a tender kiss on Jeongin's forehead, the final realization of their bond sinking in. 

Chapter Text

As the last of Jeongin's heat finally subsided, a peaceful stillness settled over the room. The once frantic energy had drained from his body, leaving him deeply exhausted but safe in Minho's embrace. Jeongin was sound asleep, his body still and relaxed against the tangled sheets, his soft breathing the only indication of life as his exhaustion finally took over.

Minho, too, was spent. His body ached from the constant tension and the intensity of the past few days, his mind struggling to catch up with everything that had just happened. As he watched Jeongin, his mate, now finally calm and content, he felt a wave of relief wash over him. But beneath it all, there was something else, something more complex that he couldn’t quite put his finger on. The bond. The mark. It was real, and it was permanent.

Minho quietly slipped out of bed, careful not to disturb Jeongin as he made his way to the bathroom. His muscles ached with exhaustion, but there was a gnawing feeling in his chest that wouldn’t let him rest just yet. He needed a moment to process, to clear his head.

The sound of the shower running filled the quiet space as he stood under the hot stream of water, letting it cascade over him. The warmth soothed his tired muscles, but his mind was elsewhere. His fingers instinctively went to his neck, to the spot where Jeongin had marked him. The bite was still fresh, the mark a reminder of everything that had happened between them.

He traced it gently, his fingers brushing over the sensitive skin, and a shiver ran down his spine. The feeling was overwhelming, surprising, even. A permanent mark. He had expected something more fleeting, something that would fade in time, but this was different. This mark, this bond, it was there to stay.

Minho closed his eyes under the hot water, feeling the weight of it all. His thoughts raced, spinning with everything he had experienced. The intense emotions that had surged through him, the overwhelming need to protect and claim Jeongin, and now, the knowledge that he would carry this mark with him for the rest of his life.

The reality of the situation settled in, and Minho felt a pressure in his chest. He wasn’t sure how he felt about it. There was no denying the bond, no denying that Jeongin was his. And yet, a part of him was still struggling to adjust to the permanence of it all.

He let out a deep breath, his hand still lingering on the mark as the water ran over him. The exhaustion of the past few days, the emotional toll of it all, seemed to catch up with him all at once. His body felt like it was on the edge of collapsing, but his mind refused to quiet.

With a shaky sigh, Minho stepped out of the shower, wrapping a towel around his waist. He stood in front of the mirror, looking at his reflection. His eyes flickered to his neck, where the mark was still visible, a visible sign of the bond he had formed with Jeongin. A permanent mark. And in that moment, Minho realized that it wasn’t just Jeongin who had been marked, he, too, had been irrevocably changed.

He reached for his phone, the soft glow of the screen illuminating his face as he checked the time. Jeongin would be sleeping for a while longer. Minho needed this time, needed this moment to himself to process everything. But as the last of the water dripped from his hair and the fog in the bathroom started to clear, one thought lingered in his mind: there was no going back.

Jeongin was his. And Minho was his. The mark, the bond, it was permanent. And that was something he could no longer ignore.

He sighed again, running a hand through his damp hair as he stared at his reflection. "What now?" he whispered to himself, the weight of the question heavy on his shoulders.

And somewhere in the silence, the answer seemed clear: now, they would have to navigate the bond, the life they had just begun together. It wouldn't be easy, but it was theirs to figure out. And for better or worse, Minho was ready to face it, whether he was fully prepared or not.

Minho stood in front of the bathroom mirror for a few more moments, his eyes tracing the faint outline of the mating mark, still fresh and tender on his neck. The weight of it felt heavier now, the realization sinking deeper with each passing second. The bond between him and Jeongin wasn’t just physical, it was emotional, spiritual even. It was a connection that could never be undone, no matter how much Minho tried to convince himself he was still in control.

As he made his way back to the bedroom, the quiet stillness in the house felt almost deafening. He could hear the soft breathing of Jeongin, still lost in sleep, the faint rustling of sheets as the younger omega shifted under the covers. Minho’s gaze softened as he watched Jeongin, his heart inexplicably pulled toward him despite the whirlwind of emotions running through his mind.

He approached the bed slowly, the exhaustion in his limbs making every movement feel heavier. The past few days had drained him more than he was willing to admit. The intensity of Jeongin's heat, the demands on his body and mind, it had taken a toll. But now, as Jeongin lay there so peacefully, the last traces of his heat finally subsiding, there was a strange calm in the air. Minho couldn’t help but feel a sense of protectiveness rise in him once more.

Minho sat at the edge of the bed, still wrapped in a towel after his shower, water dripping from his damp hair onto his bare shoulders. The room was quiet now, save for the soft sound of Jeongin's steady breathing. He glanced over his shoulder at the omega, who was curled up in the center of the bed, clutching one of the pillows close to his chest. Jeongin looked peaceful, his face softened in sleep, and his scent, though still faintly sweet from the remnants of his heat, was calmer now, grounding.

Minho’s gaze dropped to his own hands. The faint red marks on his wrists were a reminder of Jeongin’s grip during his most desperate moments, and the thought of how vulnerable they had both been made Minho's chest tighten.

Standing up, Minho walked to the window, pulling the curtains back slightly to let in the moonlight. He pressed his palm against the cool glass, trying to sort through the emotions swirling in his head. His hand instinctively went to his neck again, fingers brushing the mark Jeongin had given him. It wasn’t just a symbol; it was a declaration. They were bonded now, permanently.

For an alpha who had always prided himself on control, the permanence of it all was overwhelming. The mark wasn’t just physical, it tied them together in a way he couldn’t undo, no matter how hard he might try to convince himself that this was just circumstance.

He clenched his jaw. Jeongin hadn’t asked for this life either, thrust into a marriage with someone who had spent more time avoiding him than trying to know him. Yet, in his heart, Jeongin had trusted him, leaned into him, whispered his name like it was a lifeline.

And now?

Minho didn’t know what to do with that trust.

The sound of soft rustling pulled him from his thoughts. He turned to see Jeongin stirring, his lashes fluttering as he blinked sleepily at Minho.

“Minho?” Jeongin’s voice was soft, hoarse from the days of heat.

Minho moved toward the bed instinctively. “I’m here,” he said quietly, sitting back down on the edge.

Jeongin shifted, propping himself up slightly, though he still looked exhausted. His hand reached out hesitantly, brushing against Minho’s. “Are you okay?”

The question surprised him. Jeongin looked at him with those wide, doe-like eyes, concern etched into his expression. Minho wasn’t used to someone asking about his well-being, especially not after everything they had just been through.

“I’m fine,” Minho replied, though the words felt heavier than usual. He hesitated, then added, “You should be resting.”

Jeongin offered a faint smile. “I am... just wanted to make sure.”

Minho’s throat tightened. This omega, his omega, had been through hell during the past few days, yet here he was, worrying about him. The thought made something inside Minho shift, a crack forming in the carefully constructed walls he had built around himself.

He reached out, brushing a strand of hair from Jeongin’s damp forehead. “Get some sleep,” he murmured. “We’ll... figure everything out later.”

Jeongin nodded slowly, his eyes already starting to close again. “Thank you,” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Minho sat there for a while longer, watching as Jeongin’s breathing evened out once more. His fingers unconsciously went to the mark on his neck again, the bond thrumming faintly beneath his skin. It wasn’t what he had expected, or wanted, but it was real now. Unchangeable.

He stood abruptly, the towel around his waist shifting as he moved toward the door. He needed air, space, anything to quiet the chaos in his mind. Slipping out of the bedroom, Minho padded down the hallway, his footsteps muffled against the hardwood floor.

The house was quiet, the only sound coming from the faint hum of the refrigerator as he stepped into the kitchen. Minho flicked on the light and leaned against the counter, his fingers gripping the edge tightly. His neck still tingled from the mating mark, the permanence of it feeling heavier with every passing moment.

Without thinking, he reached into the cabinet and pulled out a glass, filling it with water from the tap. The cold liquid didn’t do much to steady his nerves, but it gave him something to focus on. As he stared at the glass, his mind wandered back to the last few days. The heat, the bond, the whispered pleas from Jeongin, Minho, please. You promised.

His grip on the glass tightened. He hadn’t known what to expect when they were forced into this union, but this? This was more than he’d prepared for. Jeongin had trusted him, had given everything to him in his most vulnerable state, and Minho wasn’t sure if he could shoulder that responsibility.

The cats’ soft meows broke through his thoughts. He turned his head to see Soonie, Doongie, and Dori padding into the kitchen, their tails swishing as they approached him. Normally, they would have lingered near him, but tonight, they barely spared him a glance before trotting off in the direction of Jeongin’s room. Minho watched them go, a pang of something he couldn’t quite name tightening in his chest.

Setting the glass down, Minho made his way to the back door. He needed fresh air, something to clear his head. The night was cool, the breeze biting against his damp skin as he stepped out onto the patio. The garden stretched out before him, dimly lit by the moonlight.

Minho ran a hand through his wet hair, his gaze fixed on the garden beds Jeongin had been tending to since moving in. The sight of the neatly arranged flowers and herbs brought an odd sense of guilt. Jeongin had been trying, trying to make this work, to make this house feel like a home. And what had he done?

Avoided. Deflected. Ignored.

He exhaled sharply, the cool air doing little to temper the heat rising in his chest. Minho’s fingers instinctively went to his neck, brushing against the mark. He hadn’t even realized Jeongin had marked him during his heat until later, the sharp sting pulling him from the haze of instinct. Now, it was a constant reminder of the bond they shared, whether he wanted it or not.

The sound of the door creaking open behind him made him turn. He expected Jeongin, but it was only Doongie, the black-furred cat, stepping out and sitting at the threshold. The cat stared at him, unblinking, as if judging him.

Minho huffed a quiet laugh. “What? You’re going to lecture me too?”

Doongie blinked and then turned back inside, leaving Minho alone once more. He shook his head, pushing off the railing and heading back toward the door. He couldn’t stay out here all night, no matter how tempting it was to avoid the weight of everything waiting for him inside.

As he stepped back into the house, the faint scent of Jeongin reached him, lingering even this far from the bedroom. It was lighter now, softer, but it still wrapped around him, refusing to let go.

Minho paused at the bottom of the stairs, his hand resting on the banister. He didn’t know what he was going to say or do when he returned to the room, but one thing was clear: he couldn't keep running from this. From Jeongin.

Squaring his shoulders, Minho started up the stairs, the sound of his footsteps echoing faintly in the quiet house.

Chapter Text

Jeongin’s eyes fluttered open, the soft morning light streaming through the window casting a warm glow over the room. For a moment, everything felt surreal. His body was sore in places he hadn’t expected, but the overwhelming wave of his heat had subsided, leaving him with a sense of quiet relief. His breath was steady now, but there was an unfamiliar weight on his stomach.

He glanced down, realizing with a start that Minho’s arm had draped over him while they slept. Minho was still deeply asleep, his chest rising and falling slowly as he breathed, his face relaxed in a way Jeongin had never seen before. There was something oddly comforting about it, something that made his heart ache just a little.

Jeongin shifted slightly, careful not to wake Minho, and turned his head to get a better look at him. He admired the way Minho’s hair fell across his forehead in soft waves, his sharp jawline, and the quiet strength in his features even when he was at rest. It was almost as if Minho wore his emotions on his face, and Jeongin could see it now, even in sleep: the tension, the vulnerability that Minho never showed in his waking hours.

His gaze moved lower, and that’s when he saw it. 

The mating mark.

It wasn’t much, barely visible from beneath the collar of Minho’s night shirt. But it was there. A small, darkened mark, faint but unmistakable. A mark that made Jeongin’s chest tighten. He felt his fingers tremble slightly as he reached for his own neck, the memory of the pain during his heat still fresh in his mind. But now? Now, it was just a physical connection that tied him to Minho in ways that were impossible to ignore.

Jeongin’s fingers brushed over the mark on his own neck, and a quiet sigh escaped his lips. It was real. They were bonded now. He could feel it, the strange tug of connection between them that had begun when Minho had claimed him. He couldn’t explain it, but there was no denying it either.

The reality of it settled around him like a heavy weight, and he couldn’t help but feel the quiet ache of uncertainty that had been gnawing at him since the night before. What now? They had bonded, yes, but what did that mean for them? What did it mean for him and Minho, now that everything had changed?

Jeongin turned his gaze to the window, watching as the sunlight filtered in through the curtains. It was bright, the early morning casting a golden glow across the room. He tried to focus on the warmth, the light, the sense of peace that the new day promised. But his stomach gave a loud, embarrassing rumble, reminding him that there were more immediate concerns.

He hadn’t eaten in days, his body having focused entirely on surviving the heat, and now, hunger gnawed at him relentlessly. They hadn’t gone grocery shopping yet, and the kitchen was bare.

Jeongin let out a small groan of frustration. What were they going to eat? He sat up, carefully disentangling himself from Minho’s arm. His body felt heavy, the lingering exhaustion of the heat still hanging over him. He glanced back at Minho, who was still peacefully asleep, unaware of the hungry omega beside him.

A pout slowly formed on Jeongin’s lips. He was so hungry, and Minho was still sleeping so soundly. Jeongin’s thoughts drifted to the kitchen, but his gaze lingered on Minho for just a moment longer.

He sighed, leaning forward and poking Minho gently in the side. “Minho…” he whispered softly. Nothing.

Poking him again, this time a little harder, Jeongin repeated, “Alpha…” His pout grew deeper as he glanced down at Minho’s still-sleeping form. The alpha was so hard to wake, always so difficult to rouse from his sleep, and Jeongin was starting to lose patience.

He poked Minho one last time, this time pressing his finger into the side of Minho’s ribs. “Minho…” he said again, his voice now a little louder. “You promised to help me today…”

Still, nothing. Minho just shifted slightly, his arm pulling Jeongin closer in his sleep, but he didn’t wake. Jeongin’s stomach growled again, louder this time, and he pressed his hand to it in embarrassment.

Finally, Jeongin groaned, the pout on his lips deepening, and he swung his legs off the side of the bed. He didn’t have the energy to keep trying to wake Minho, especially with his hunger growing worse by the second.

Just as he stood, ready to head downstairs and find something to eat on his own, the sound of the doorbell echoed through the house. Jeongin froze mid-step, a confused frown crossing his face.

Who could that be?

He glanced back at Minho, still blissfully unaware, before sighing and trudging toward the door. His stomach still growled as he padded down the stairs, his steps slow and reluctant.

Jeongin opened the door cautiously, still feeling the weight of sleep in his limbs. As he pulled it back, his eyes widened a bit in surprise to see a familiar face standing on the other side. It was Changbin, his expression slightly startled, as if he hadn’t been expecting Jeongin to answer the door so quickly.

The alpha was holding a basket in his hands, his posture slightly stiff, as though unsure what to say or do.

“Uhm… hi,” Changbin started, his voice a little awkward but warm. “I’m Changbin, Minho’s friend.”

Jeongin blinked for a moment, processing the name. Then his eyes brightened with recognition, and a soft smile appeared on his lips.

“Ah, yes, I remember you from the wedding, right?” he said, his voice still a little groggy but polite. “I’m Jeongin. Please, come in.”

He stepped back, holding the door open as Changbin, after a brief hesitation, entered the house and bent down to slip off his shoes. Jeongin noticed how formal the alpha’s posture was, almost like he was trying to be respectful of the space. Once inside, Jeongin led him through the hall and into the living room.

As soon as they reached the main area, Changbin glanced around the house and then back at Jeongin. “Where’s Minho?” he asked, his voice casual but with a slight note of curiosity.

Jeongin’s expression faltered, his lips turning downward as his eyebrows furrowed in a small pout. “Still sleeping,” he replied, voice dripping with a mix of both exasperation and affection. He sighed and looked at the floor for a moment, then back at Changbin.

Changbin couldn’t help but laugh at the sight of Jeongin’s adorably pouting face. The omega’s expression was so innocent, so endearing, that it made the alpha smile.

“I’m just here to drop off a gift from his company’s sponsors,” Changbin explained, still chuckling under his breath. “His secretary told me she couldn’t reach him, so I thought I’d do her a favor and deliver it directly to him.”

Jeongin tilted his head, his pout still firmly in place as he looked at the basket in Changbin’s hands. His curiosity piqued, he eyed it with some suspicion, wondering what it could be.

Changbin, noticing the way Jeongin was eyeing the basket, grinned and shifted the basket in his hands. “Well, I guess I should show you,” he said, opening it carefully. He reached inside and pulled out a neat package wrapped in a cloth. As he unwrapped it, Jeongin’s eyes went wide with surprise—what was revealed was nothing short of magnificent.

Inside the basket was an assortment of the finest beef Jeongin had ever seen. The cuts of meat were marbled beautifully, the dark red flesh tinged with rich streaks of fat that gleamed under the light. It was the kind of beef that looked too good to be real.

Jeongin’s mouth watered instantly, his stomach growling audibly in response. His eyes were so wide that they almost looked comical, and he unconsciously took a small step forward, his hands moving towards the meat like he couldn’t stop himself. The hunger that had been gnawing at him since he woke up suddenly flared to life, making him forget all the awkwardness of the situation.

Changbin couldn’t hold back his laughter at Jeongin’s reaction. He chuckled deeply, enjoying the way the omega’s eyes lit up with such genuine delight.

“Do you want me to grill it?” Changbin asked, his voice light and teasing.

Jeongin’s gaze snapped up to meet Changbin’s, his wide, fox-like eyes filled with excitement and disbelief. “Can we really?” he asked, his voice high-pitched and almost childlike in its eagerness.

How was Changbin supposed to say no to that? He was already grinning at Jeongin’s enthusiasm, and the thought of cooking for the omega seemed like the least he could do to help out. Plus, he wasn’t about to waste such fancy beef.

“Of course we can,” Changbin replied with a wink, chuckling again. He gave Jeongin a knowing look. “I think you’ve earned it after everything that’s happened.”

Jeongin’s grin was practically infectious, his whole face lighting up as he bounced on the balls of his feet. He practically glowed with excitement, and for a moment, the awkwardness of the situation faded completely. His stomach growled again, louder this time, and Jeongin glanced down at it in embarrassment, but then his focus was back on Changbin, who was already moving toward the kitchen.

“Alright,” Changbin said, already gesturing toward the kitchen. “Let’s get this ready, huh? I think you’re gonna love it.”

Jeongin could hardly contain his joy. He moved quickly to follow Changbin, unable to stop himself from glancing back at the meat in awe as they headed toward the garden. It had been so long since he’d eaten something that looked this good, and now, with Changbin’s help, he was about to indulge in it.

—

Minho woke slowly, his body reluctant to leave the warmth of sleep. The sunlight streaming through the curtains danced on his face, forcing his eyes to blink open. Groaning softly, he stirred, rubbing a hand over his face to shake off the lingering drowsiness.

He turned his head, expecting to see Jeongin curled up beside him, but the bed was empty. The space where his mate should have been was cold, the sheets neatly pushed aside. Minho sat up with a frown, his gaze drifting to the bathroom door. It was open, the light off, and no sign of Jeongin inside.

Confused, he swung his legs over the edge of the bed, the cool floor making him wince slightly as he stood. His muscles protested the movement, days of enduring Jeongin’s heat had left his body sore and fatigued. Still, concern for his mate pushed him forward.

With a groggy groan, he shuffled downstairs, his nose instinctively trying to pick up Jeongin’s scent. The first floor was immaculate, almost unnaturally quiet. The living room was spotless, the cushions on the couch perfectly arranged. He peeked into the kitchen, expecting to see Jeongin cooking something, but it was empty too.

“Where is he?” Minho muttered under his breath, running a hand through his messy hair.

Then, faintly, he heard it, a soft laugh carried on the breeze. It was muffled but unmistakably Jeongin’s. Minho’s ears perked up, and he followed the sound toward the garden door. Sliding it open, he stepped outside and paused, his sharp eyes taking in the scene before him.

There, in the middle of the garden, was Jeongin, sitting at the small outdoor table with a plate in front of him. His cheeks were stuffed with food, and he was swinging his feet happily like a child. Across from him stood Changbin, flipping meat on a portable grill with a smirk on his face. The omega’s joy was palpable, his laughter bubbling up as he watched Changbin add more meat to his plate.

Minho’s jaw tightened as he took in the sight. The scene was far too cozy for his liking. Jeongin looked entirely too content in Changbin’s presence, and his alpha didn’t like it. At all.

Changbin was the first to notice him. He glanced up, his smirk widening as his gaze met Minho’s. “Oh, look,” Changbin called out, his tone playful. “Your alpha’s awake now.”

Jeongin’s head snapped up at the words, his wide eyes meeting Minho’s. For a moment, he looked surprised, but his expression quickly shifted. His eyebrows furrowed, and his lips turned down into a pout, a pout that was directed squarely at Minho. Without saying a word, Jeongin turned back to his plate, happily spearing another piece of meat with his fork.

Minho’s alpha bristled. His mate was pouting at him and smiling at another alpha in the same breath? That wasn’t sitting right with him. He stepped closer, his sharp gaze flicking to the grill, where Changbin was expertly flipping another cut of meat onto the sizzling surface.

Changbin, ever perceptive, noticed the change in Minho’s scent almost immediately. The air was tinged with possessiveness, and Changbin’s smirk deepened. “Relax,” Changbin said, his tone light but teasing. “I was here to drop off this meat from one of your sponsors. Your secretary couldn’t reach you, so I figured I’d deliver it myself.” He gestured toward Jeongin with his tongs. “Your omega was hungry, so I’m grilling it for him.”

Jeongin perked up at the mention of food, his fox-like eyes lighting up as Changbin placed another piece of perfectly grilled beef on his plate. His pout disappeared, replaced by a wide, satisfied smile as he eagerly dug in.

Minho sighed, trying to rein in his alpha instincts as he sat down across from Jeongin. He reached for a fork, intent on stealing a piece of meat from Jeongin’s plate, but the omega was faster. Jeongin pulled the plate toward him protectively, his cheeks puffed out like a squirrel as he chewed.

Minho stared at him, dumbfounded. “That meat was meant for me, you know?” he said, though his tone was more amused than serious.

Jeongin raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed by the statement. “Well, my alpha can’t even provide for his omega, so he can’t say anything,” he retorted, his words muffled by the food still in his mouth.

Minho’s lips parted in shock, but the sharp look in Jeongin’s eyes, combined with his puffed cheeks and the way he clutched his plate like a prized possession, made it impossible to be mad. Instead, he let out a deep laugh, shaking his head as he dropped the fork back onto the table.

“Fine,” Minho said, leaning back in his chair with a small, defeated smile. “Eat all you want.”

Jeongin’s pout disappeared instantly, replaced by a triumphant grin. He took another bite, humming happily as he chewed. Minho watched him, the earlier irritation melting away as he took in the sight of his mate eating so joyfully.

His omega. His Jeongin.

Changbin glanced between the two of them, amused by the dynamic. “Well, looks like he’s got you wrapped around his finger already,” he teased, flipping another piece of meat onto the grill.

Minho only smirked, his gaze never leaving Jeongin. “Maybe he does,” he admitted softly, though he doubted Jeongin could hear him over the sound of his own contented munching.

Chapter Text

After Changbin left, the house grew quiet again. Jeongin, full from the indulgent meal, sprawled out on the sofa in a happy food coma. His head rested against one of the plush cushions, and his arms draped lazily over his stomach. Soonie, Doongie, and Dori had claimed him as their personal bed, all piled on top of him in various positions. Soonie curled up on his chest, Doongie stretched out across his legs, and Dori nestled against his side. Jeongin didn’t seem to mind, a soft, sleepy smile on his face as he absentmindedly stroked Soonie’s fur.

Minho stood in the doorway, leaning against the frame as he watched the scene unfold. His omega looked impossibly adorable, completely at peace with their little family. Jeongin’s scent was calm and warm, filling the room with a soothing sweetness. Minho’s lips quirked into a small smile, his heart softening at the sight.

But as he walked into the kitchen to grab some water, his gaze fell on the fridge. He opened it, and his eyebrows furrowed. It was nearly empty. The only things left were a couple of eggs, a sad-looking piece of tofu, and a single carton of milk. He closed the fridge door with a sigh and walked back into the living room.

“Jeongin,” he called softly.

Jeongin opened one eye, his hand still resting on Soonie’s back. “Mm?” he hummed sleepily.

Minho gestured toward the kitchen. “Why is the fridge so empty? Didn’t we stock up a while ago?”

Jeongin’s eyes fluttered open fully, and his expression turned sheepish. He sat up slightly, careful not to disturb the cats. “Well… I’ve been trying to stretch it out because I don’t have much money. And… I don’t really know how to get to the store,” he admitted, his voice growing quieter with each word.

Minho’s chest tightened at the confession. Jeongin’s words hit him like a brick. Of course. His omega was still new to Seoul, unfamiliar with the city’s layout, and had been cooped up in the house since their rushed marriage. He had barely had the chance to explore or find his footing.

Jeongin looked down at his lap, fidgeting with a loose thread on his shirt. “I didn’t want to bother you,” he added softly.

Minho felt a pang of guilt twist in his chest. He had been so wrapped up in his own routine and avoiding too much interaction that he hadn’t even thought about how isolating it must be for Jeongin to be stuck inside all the time.

He walked over to the sofa and crouched down in front of Jeongin, reaching out to gently brush his fingers against the back of Jeongin’s hand. “You’ve been locked up in here for so long,” Minho murmured. “I should’ve taken you out sooner.”

Jeongin blinked, his wide, innocent eyes meeting Minho’s. “It’s okay. I—”

“It’s not okay,” Minho interrupted, shaking his head. His voice was firm but not harsh. “We’re fixing it today. Let’s go grocery shopping together.”

Jeongin’s face lit up instantly, his pout disappearing as excitement took over. “Really? We’re going out?” he asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.

Minho smiled softly. “Really. Get dressed. We’ll go wherever you want.”

Jeongin’s excitement was contagious. He practically jumped off the sofa, causing the cats to scatter with annoyed meows. He dashed toward the stairs, calling over his shoulder, “I’ll get ready right now!”

Minho chuckled to himself, watching as Jeongin disappeared up the staircase. The house felt brighter with his omega’s energy filling it. For the first time in a long while, Minho felt a sense of anticipation, the weight of his earlier guilt replaced with the simple pleasure of doing something as ordinary as shopping with Jeongin.

Minho watched as Jeongin bounced excitedly down the grocery store aisle, his earlier food coma apparently giving way to boundless energy. They had come to the store to restock their nearly empty fridge and pantry, something that, Minho realized with a twinge of guilt, he should have addressed long ago. Now, Jeongin seemed determined to make up for lost time, examining every shelf like he was on a treasure hunt.

Pushing the cart lazily, Minho couldn’t help but smirk as Jeongin darted toward the fresh produce section. The omega had insisted on coming even though he was still full from earlier, declaring that the sight of an empty fridge was unacceptable.

Jeongin picked up a bundle of spring onions, holding them up for Minho to see. “We need these for soups, right?”

Minho shrugged. “If you say so. Grab them.”

With a satisfied nod, Jeongin added the onions to the cart before moving to inspect some carrots. Minho leaned against the handle of the cart, his gaze softening as he watched Jeongin. The omega looked so content, his cheeks slightly pink from the cool air outside and his lips curved in a faint smile.

“Minho, what about potatoes? Should we get these?” Jeongin called, holding up a large bag.

“You’re the one who’ll cook with them,” Minho replied. “Get what you think we need.”

Jeongin pouted slightly. “You could help decide, you know.”

Minho chuckled, pushing the cart closer. “Fine. Get the smaller bag. We don’t need too many.”

Satisfied, Jeongin tossed the bag into the cart and moved on to the next section. They wandered through the store together, picking out staples like rice, noodles, and spices, while Jeongin occasionally paused to marvel at items he hadn’t seen before.

In the meat section, Jeongin practically lit up when he spotted the neatly packaged cuts of beef and pork. “Look at this!” he exclaimed, pointing at a marbled steak. “Doesn’t this look amazing?”

Minho smirked. “You just ate. How are you still thinking about food?”

Jeongin stuck out his tongue. “I’m planning for later! We can grill this, maybe?”

“Put it in the cart,” Minho said with a small shake of his head, amused. He added some chicken and fish as well, mindful of keeping their meals varied.

When they reached the snack aisle, Jeongin hesitated before grabbing a bag of chips and some chocolate. He turned to Minho with an almost sheepish expression. “Is this okay?”

Minho raised an eyebrow. “Why are you asking me? If you want snacks, get snacks.”

Jeongin smiled, adding the items to the cart. “I don’t want to waste money.”

Minho paused, his heart clenching slightly at the comment. He didn’t like the idea of Jeongin feeling so cautious about spending. “You don’t have to worry about that,” he said softly. “Get whatever you want.”

Jeongin blinked up at him, a flicker of surprise crossing his face before he nodded. “Okay. Thank you.”

As they made their way to the checkout, Jeongin’s enthusiasm was still evident in the way he pointed out little things he wanted to try. Minho, for his part, mostly listened, content to let Jeongin take the lead. It felt… good, watching him be so happy over something so mundane.

When they returned to the car with their bags, Jeongin turned to Minho with a bright smile. “This was fun. Thank you for coming with me.”

Minho smirked. “It’s just grocery shopping.”

Jeongin shook his head. “Still, it’s nice to get out of the house. And doing it with you makes it better.”

Minho’s chest tightened at the sincerity in Jeongin’s voice. He reached out, ruffling the omega’s hair. “Let’s get home and put all this away.”

Jeongin nodded, climbing into the car. As Minho started the engine, he glanced over at Jeongin, who was already humming softly to himself, looking out the window with a content expression. Minho couldn’t help but smile. Maybe he’d been neglecting the little things, but he was determined to make up for it. This was a good start.

When they got back home, the grocery bags were scattered across the kitchen counter, and Jeongin was already humming a tune as he began organizing everything. Minho leaned against the counter, arms crossed, watching Jeongin move around with newfound energy. His omega seemed brighter, more at ease, and that made Minho feel a strange warmth in his chest.

Still, something was bothering him. Jeongin’s earlier comment at the store about “not wasting money” lingered in his mind. Minho felt a pang of guilt, how had he let Jeongin feel so unsure about something as basic as buying groceries?

Resolving to fix it, Minho quietly slipped into the living room, pulling out his phone. He scrolled through his contacts until he found his secretary’s number and hit call.

“Hello, Mr. Lee,” came the professional but familiar voice of his secretary.

“Hey, it’s me,” Minho said, keeping his voice low so Jeongin wouldn’t overhear. “I need you to do something for me.”

“Of course. What do you need?”

“I want you to arrange for a supplementary credit card under my account for Jeongin. Make sure it has no spending limit,” Minho said firmly.

There was a brief pause on the other end before the secretary replied, “Understood. I’ll have it processed immediately. Would you like it delivered to your office or home?”

“Send it to the house. And make sure it’s expedited. I want it here by tomorrow.”

“Understood, Mr. Lee. Anything else?”

Minho hesitated for a moment. “No, that’s all. Just handle it quickly.”

“Will do. Have a good evening.”

Minho ended the call and slipped his phone back into his pocket, letting out a quiet sigh of relief. He didn’t want Jeongin to feel like he had to hold back anymore, not when Minho had more than enough to provide for the both of them.

As he walked back into the kitchen, Jeongin was busy stacking boxes of snacks neatly in the pantry, completely unaware of Minho’s plans. The omega looked up when he heard Minho enter and flashed him a bright smile.

“Everything’s almost put away!” Jeongin announced cheerfully.

“Good,” Minho replied with a small smirk, leaning against the doorframe. His gaze softened as he watched Jeongin’s carefree movements. He deserved this happiness, this security, and Minho was going to make sure he never had to worry about anything again.

Tomorrow, when the card arrived, he’d hand it to Jeongin and tell him to use it freely, no matter what. For now, though, he stayed quiet, content to watch his mate enjoy the moment.

Chapter Text

Later that evening, after the groceries were neatly organized and the house felt lively again, Jeongin curled up on the couch, a book resting on his lap. Minho sat across from him with his laptop, pretending to work but finding it hard to focus. His eyes kept drifting to Jeongin, who looked so peaceful, absentmindedly flipping through pages.

“Are you sure you’re not too tired after today?” Minho asked, breaking the comfortable silence.

Jeongin glanced up, his lips curling into a small smile. “I’m fine. Today was really fun.” He paused, a faint blush dusting his cheeks. “I didn’t realize how much I missed going out. Thank you for taking me.”

Minho’s chest tightened at the soft gratitude in Jeongin’s voice. It wasn’t supposed to be such a big deal, but clearly, it meant everything to Jeongin. “You don’t have to thank me for that. I should’ve taken you out sooner.”

Jeongin’s gaze softened, but before he could respond, there was a knock at the door. Both of them exchanged a glance, confused.

“Were you expecting anyone?” Jeongin asked, tilting his head.

“No.” Minho stood up, his brows furrowed as he walked to the door. When he opened it, a delivery man stood there, holding an envelope.

“Delivery for Mr. Lee Minho,” the man said, handing it over.

Minho thanked him, closing the door before looking at the envelope. His lips curved slightly, ‘Chaeryeong sure does work fast’, perfect timing. He turned back to the living room, finding Jeongin watching him curiously.

“What’s that?” Jeongin asked, sitting up straighter.

Minho walked over, holding the envelope behind his back as he sat down next to Jeongin. “It’s for you.”

Jeongin blinked in surprise. “For me?”

Minho nodded and handed him the envelope. Jeongin carefully opened it, pulling out a sleek black card with his name. His new name. ‘Lee Jeongin’ embossed in silver letters. He stared at it, clearly confused.

“It’s a credit card,” Minho explained, leaning back against the couch. “For you.”

Jeongin looked up at him, wide-eyed. “For me? But… why?”

Minho smirked lightly, reaching out to brush a strand of hair from Jeongin’s face. “Because you’re my mate, and I don’t want you worrying about money or feeling like you have to ask for permission to buy anything. Use it for whatever you need or want.”

Jeongin’s cheeks flushed as he held the card, turning it over in his hands like it was some kind of treasure. “Minho… I don’t know what to say.”

“You don’t have to say anything,” Minho replied, his voice softening. “Just promise me you’ll use it, okay? No more skipping meals or worrying about what we can afford. That’s my job now.”

Jeongin looked down at the card, then back at Minho, his eyes shimmering with emotion. He nodded slowly, a shy but genuine smile spreading across his face. “Okay. Thank you, Minho.”

Minho reached out and gently squeezed Jeongin’s hand. “You’re welcome.”

The omega leaned against Minho’s shoulder, still holding the card tightly in his hand. Minho rested his chin on top of Jeongin’s head, feeling a sense of satisfaction settle over him. It wasn’t just about providing, it was about making Jeongin feel safe, secure, and cared for.

—

Jeongin stood in the kitchen, inspecting the assortment of groceries they had bought earlier. His excitement bubbled as he pulled out fresh vegetables, meat, and spices, setting them on the counter.

Minho walked in a moment later, sleeves rolled up, watching Jeongin with an amused expression. “You’re starting without me?”

Jeongin looked over his shoulder, a playful pout forming. “You were taking too long! And I’m hungry again after all that walking.”

Minho chuckled, stepping closer and taking a spot beside him. “Alright, what’s on the menu?”

Jeongin tilted his head, thinking. “Hmm… maybe stir-fried beef and vegetables? It’s simple but good.”

“Sounds perfect,” Minho said, reaching for the apron hanging on the wall. He handed another to Jeongin, who slipped it on, tying it behind his back.

Jeongin started washing the vegetables while Minho worked on slicing the beef. The kitchen quickly filled with the comforting sounds of chopping and water running. Jeongin hummed softly as he worked, his cheerful energy infectious.

“You’re in a good mood,” Minho commented, glancing at him.

Jeongin nodded, his smile soft. “I guess… it just feels nice. Being here, doing this with you.”

Minho’s chest tightened at the sincerity in Jeongin’s words. He didn’t respond immediately, instead focusing on the task at hand, but his lips quirked into a small smile.

“Alright, veggies are done!” Jeongin announced, placing the freshly cut pieces into a bowl.

“Perfect timing. The beef’s ready too,” Minho said, handing Jeongin the pan so he could start heating the oil.

Jeongin took the pan, carefully adding oil and swirling it around. The sizzle that followed when he tossed in the vegetables made him grin. “It smells so good already!”

Minho watched him with fond amusement, stepping in to stir the beef in a separate pan. “Careful not to burn it, Jeongin.”

“I know, I know,” Jeongin replied, sticking his tongue out at him.

As the food cooked, their movements became more synchronized. Jeongin handed Minho the soy sauce without him asking, and Minho passed Jeongin the pepper just as he reached for it. It felt natural, effortless, like they had been doing this together for years.

Once the beef and vegetables were combined in a single pan, Jeongin leaned over, taking a deep whiff. “Oh, it smells amazing!”

Minho chuckled, shaking his head. “It’s not done yet.”

Jeongin grabbed a pair of chopsticks and stole a small piece of beef to taste. His eyes widened as he chewed. “Minho! It’s so good!”

“Of course it is. I made it,” Minho teased, smirking.

Jeongin rolled his eyes, but his laughter betrayed how much he enjoyed their banter. “We made it, alpha. Don’t forget I helped.”

“Fine,” Minho relented, a playful glint in his eyes. 

They plated the food together and sat down at the dining table. As they dug in, the flavors of their joint effort filled the room. Jeongin looked up at Minho mid-bite, his cheeks full like a chipmunk.

“What?” Minho asked, amused.

“Nothing,” Jeongin mumbled, swallowing. “I just… I like this. Us, like this.”

Minho’s heart gave a little lurch. He reached across the table, resting his hand lightly on Jeongin’s. “Me too.”

And as they continued their meal, the house felt warmer than it had in weeks, their bond quietly growing stronger with every shared moment.

The clinking of chopsticks against plates filled the room as Minho and Jeongin ate the meal they had made together. The flavors were simple yet satisfying, and Minho couldn’t help but glance at Jeongin occasionally. The omega ate with an unguarded joy, savoring each bite like it was the best thing he’d ever tasted.

To think of it, this was the first time Minho had eaten something Jeongin had made. He hadn’t thought much about it at first, but now, as the warm, homemade flavors settled on his tongue, he made a mental note to cook and eat with Jeongin more often. It wasn’t just the food, it was the quiet companionship, the shared effort, and the way Jeongin’s happiness seemed to brighten the entire room.

“This is good,” Minho finally said, breaking the silence.

Jeongin looked up, his cheeks full. “You think so?”

Minho nodded, hiding a small smile. “Yeah. Not bad for your first time cooking with me.”

Jeongin rolled his eyes but grinned. “Well, don’t get used to it. You still owe me for all the meals I had to eat alone.”

Minho’s smirk faltered slightly, guilt flickering in his chest. He didn’t respond, simply reaching for another piece of beef, making a silent promise to himself to make it up to Jeongin somehow.

After finishing their meal, they cleaned up the kitchen together, the atmosphere light and comfortable. Once everything was put away, they headed upstairs, the soft sound of their footsteps filling the quiet house.

When they reached the hallway where their rooms were, Jeongin slowed his steps, standing outside his door. He glanced at Minho, his expression hesitant but curious.

Minho raised an eyebrow. “What?”

Jeongin shifted on his feet, fidgeting with the hem of his shirt. “Are we… are we gonna sleep in separate rooms?”

Minho blinked, caught off guard by the question. “Well, yeah. I mean, we’ve always had our own spaces, haven’t we?”

Jeongin frowned, his brows furrowing. “But… we’re mated now.”

Minho couldn’t stop the teasing smirk that spread across his face. “Oh? So now that we’re mated, you want to share a bed? That’s cute, Jeongin.”

Jeongin’s cheeks flushed, and he huffed, crossing his arms. “That’s not what I meant! It’s just… it feels weird now, sleeping apart.”

Minho chuckled, shaking his head. “I get it, but even mates need their own spaces sometimes. You’ll be fine.”

Jeongin’s pout deepened, and he glared at Minho. “Fine. Goodnight, alpha.”

The way he said “alpha” was laced with sarcasm, and Minho couldn’t help but laugh. “Goodnight, Jeongin.”

Jeongin slipped into his room, shutting the door behind him with a little more force than necessary. Minho stood in the hallway for a moment, staring at Jeongin’s closed door, the teasing smirk slipping from his face.

Jeongin wasn’t happy about the arrangement, and deep down, Minho wasn’t sure he was either. But sharing a room… sharing a bed… that felt like a step he wasn’t quite ready for.

With a sigh, Minho turned and headed to his own room, his mind lingering on the sight of Jeongin’s disappointed face.

Chapter Text

Minho was startled awake by the sound of the doorbell ringing, loud and insistent. He groaned, rolling over and pulling the blanket over his head, trying to block out the noise. But the ringing continued, persistent and unrelenting, until Minho finally gave up with a frustrated sigh.

Grumbling under his breath, he swung his legs over the edge of the bed and stood up, ruffling his messy hair. He barely had his bearings as he shuffled out of his room, rubbing his eyes and muttering curses at whoever was rude enough to interrupt his morning.

As he reached the staircase, he caught sight of Jeongin stepping out of his room, his soft bedhead sticking out in every direction, a frown firmly settled on his lips. Jeongin’s eyebrows were furrowed, and he was clearly not pleased with the intrusion either.

“Who in their right mind rings the doorbell like that this early?” Jeongin mumbled, rubbing his eyes as he followed Minho down the stairs.

“I’ll handle it,” Minho said, still irritated as he reached the door.

When he opened it, his annoyance grew. Standing there were Hyunjin, Felix, and Changbin, all grinning broadly and holding bags of food and drinks.

Hyunjin was the first to speak, waving dramatically. “Good morning! We thought we’d drop by for a visit!”

Felix chimed in with a warm smile. “We brought food!”

Minho scowled, blocking the doorway. “And you thought ringing the doorbell like maniacs was the best way to announce yourselves?”

Hyunjin pouted theatrically. “Hey, it’s not fair that only Changbin got to meet Jeongin in your house. We wanted to come, too!”

Changbin held his hands up defensively. “Don’t look at me, this was their idea.”

Before Minho could retort, Jeongin peeked around him, his sleepy eyes widening at the unexpected visitors. Felix immediately brightened, stepping forward.

“You must be Jeongin!” Felix said cheerfully. “I’m Felix, and this is Hyunjin. We’re Minho’s friends.”

Hyunjin leaned in, his eyes sparkling with curiosity. “It’s so nice to finally meet you! You’re even cuter than I imagined.”

Jeongin blinked, caught off guard by the enthusiastic introductions, but he managed a small smile. “Oh, uh, thank you. It’s nice to meet you, too.”

Meanwhile, Minho crossed his arms, his scowl deepening. “You woke him up from his beauty sleep and now you're all happy and friendly?”

Hyunjin and Felix froze, their eyes wide as they exchanged frantic glances. “We’re sorry!” Hyunjin said, bowing dramatically. “We didn’t mean to disturb your royal slumber!”

Felix nodded rapidly, his hands clasped together as if pleading for forgiveness. “Please don’t hold it against us!”

Jeongin stared at them in shock before turning to Minho with an incredulous look. “Yah, don’t be so rude! They came all the way here to visit, and you’re scolding them? You should apologize!”

Minho raised an eyebrow, his lips twitching in amusement at Jeongin’s scolding tone. “Apologize? They’re the ones who woke us up.”

Jeongin huffed, hands on his hips. “Still, you should be more welcoming as a host.”

Hyunjin and Felix laughed, the tension easing as Jeongin’s protectiveness over them became clear. Changbin shook his head, muttering, “You’re lucky Jeongin’s here to keep you in check, Minho.”

Minho leaned back against the couch, watching the scene with a faint smile. As much as he hated being woken up, seeing Jeongin slowly opening up to his friends was worth it.

As the morning turned into afternoon, the living room buzzed with conversation and laughter. Hyunjin and Felix were effortlessly animated, their natural charm drawing Jeongin out of his shell. Minho observed from his seat on the couch, arms crossed as he leaned back, his gaze flicking between Jeongin and his friends.

Hyunjin was recounting a ridiculous story about a mishap at the dance studio, complete with exaggerated gestures and sound effects. Felix was laughing so hard he had to clutch his stomach, while Jeongin’s soft giggles filled the room, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

Minho felt a strange mix of emotions. On one hand, he was glad to see Jeongin enjoying himself; on the other, his alpha side bristled slightly at how comfortable Jeongin seemed around the others. He shook his head, brushing the thought aside.

“Okay, but seriously,” Hyunjin said, leaning closer to Jeongin, “how do you survive living with Minho? He’s such a grouch in the mornings.”

Jeongin smiled shyly, glancing at Minho. “It’s... not so bad.”

“Not so bad?” Felix teased. “That’s the best compliment Minho’s ever gotten!”

Minho rolled his eyes, but the faintest smile tugged at the corners of his lips. “You’re all acting like I’m some kind of monster. I’m perfectly pleasant.”

“Sure you are,” Changbin quipped from the armchair, smirking. “Anyway, Jeongin, do you cook? Or does Minho actually do something useful around here?”

Jeongin perked up at the question. “I like cooking! We made dinner together last night.”

“Jeongin’s a great cook,” Minho said, surprising everyone. His tone was casual, but the honesty in his words made Jeongin’s cheeks flush slightly.

“Oh? High praise from the picky Lee Minho,” Felix said with a grin. “We should all have dinner together sometime, then. Jeongin, you can show off your skills.”

Jeongin’s lips curved into a small smile. “That sounds nice.”

As the conversation continued, Minho noticed Jeongin starting to look a little tired. The past week had been draining, and despite the energy in the room, it was clear he was beginning to feel it.

“Alright,” Minho said, standing up and stretching. “That’s enough of you lot bothering my husband for one day.”

Hyunjin gasped dramatically. “Bothering? We’re bonding!”

“Bond later,” Minho shot back. “He needs to rest.”

Felix pouted but nodded, gathering the empty containers from the snacks they’d brought. “Fine, fine. But Jeongin, we’re coming back soon. Maybe next time you can tell us some embarrassing stories about Minho.”

Jeongin chuckled softly. “I’ll think about it.”

Hyunjin and Felix helped clean up the mess they’d made before saying their goodbyes, promising to visit again soon. Changbin lingered a little longer, giving Jeongin a warm pat on the shoulder.

“Take care of yourself, alright? And don’t let Minho boss you around too much,” Changbin said with a wink.

Jeongin smiled, nodding. “Thank you for coming.”

Once the door closed and the house fell silent again, Jeongin let out a soft sigh, leaning against the wall. “Your friends are... energetic,” he said, looking at Minho with a small smile.

“They can be a handful,” Minho admitted, stepping closer. “But they like you. And I think you had fun.”

Jeongin nodded. “I did.”

“Good.” Minho reached out, brushing a stray strand of hair from Jeongin’s face. “Now, let’s get you some proper rest. You’ve had enough excitement for one day.”

Jeongin hesitated for a moment before nodding again, following Minho back into the living room. As Jeongin curled up on the couch with Soonie, Doongie, and Dori piling on top of him, Minho grabbed a blanket, draping it over his mate.

Jeongin looked up at him with sleepy eyes. “Thank you,” he murmured.

Minho smirked, leaning down to press a kiss to Jeongin’s forehead. “Get some rest, Jeongin.”

He stayed nearby, sitting on the other couch, watching as Jeongin drifted off to sleep. For the first time in a while, everything felt peaceful.

The evening had crept into full darkness when Jeongin stirred awake from his nap. The soft hum of the house wrapped around him, the only sound being the gentle purring of the three cats who had decided to nestle on top of him during his sleep. He stretched out slowly, feeling the kinks in his muscles from lying in one spot for too long. As he blinked sleepily, his eyes scanned the room, only to realize that Minho was still nowhere to be seen.

His gaze fell to the empty space next to him on the couch, a sense of longing settling in his chest. Minho had left without a word, and now the house felt more silent than usual. Jeongin reached over to the coffee table, grabbing his phone with a soft sigh. He unlocked it to find a couple of unread messages waiting for him, his heart sinking slightly as he saw the name at the top of the screen.

Minho
Something urgent came up. I had to go to work.

Don’t wait up for me.

Jeongin frowned at the message, his heart tugging at the thought of Minho being busy at work, yet again. He understood that Minho had responsibilities that kept him away, but the empty feeling of the house when Minho wasn’t there always lingered. Jeongin wanted so badly for them to spend time together, but it seemed like those moments were few and far between.

He stared at the screen for a moment longer, then placed the phone back down on the table with a soft exhale. The sudden silence of the house grew more pronounced, and Jeongin found himself lying back on the couch. He closed his eyes for a moment, letting his thoughts drift.

But then, as his stomach growled, a new thought crossed his mind, the fridge. It had been nearly empty earlier in the day. The idea of eating a solitary dinner alone in the quiet house didn't appeal to him, especially with Minho not around. Jeongin's frown deepened as he thought about it. But then, just like that, an idea struck him, he could bring dinner to Minho.

Jeongin sat up abruptly, a spark of determination lighting in his eyes. "If Minho can’t come home for dinner," he muttered to himself, "then I’ll bring him dinner."

His resolve grew stronger with every word. Minho had been working tirelessly for days, and Jeongin wanted to make sure he didn’t skip another meal, even if it meant surprising him at work. A small, content smile spread across his face as he thought about the look on Minho’s face when he walked in with dinner.

Without wasting another moment, Jeongin stood up, brushing the cats off of him gently. They mewed in protest but settled back down when they realized he wasn’t going anywhere. Jeongin made his way to the kitchen, his mind already planning what he could make with the limited ingredients they had.

The fridge was indeed sparse, a reflection of their rushed grocery trip earlier. But Jeongin wasn’t deterred. He could make something special, even with only a few basics. With swift movements, he pulled out the ingredients he could work with: a few fresh cuts of beef, some eggs, vegetables, and rice.

The process was simple, but Jeongin put all of his care into the meal, carefully arranging each component in the bento box. The beef stir-fry was neatly placed in one compartment, the rolled omelets and tofu in others, the rice he formed into a small mound in the center. When it was all arranged just so, Jeongin paused, admiring his work for a moment.

He wasn’t a professional, but the meal looked beautiful. The colors were vibrant, and everything seemed to be perfectly cooked. His heart swelled with pride, a soft smile curling on his lips. He then took a small piece of paper and wrote a note in neat handwriting.

To my hardworking alpha, eat well!

The note was simple, but it carried the warmth of his affection. He tucked it neatly on top of the rice and closed the lid, making sure everything was secured.

Jeongin stepped back from the kitchen counter, admiring the finished bento box for a moment longer. His heart fluttered with excitement, knowing Minho would be touched by the gesture. He was excited to see Minho’s reaction when he brought him dinner, but there was a lingering sense of nervousness too. He’d never been to Minho’s office before, and he wasn’t entirely sure how he’d be received there. Would they let him in? Would the guards even believe him?

He didn’t let that stop him. The thought of Minho working late and potentially going without food urged him to act. Jeongin grabbed his phone again, booking a cab with a nervous but determined smile.

The cab ride felt longer than it was as Jeongin stared out the window at the bustling city. When they arrived at the sleek skyscraper that housed Minho’s company, Jeongin paid with his new credit card, marveling briefly at the ease of the process.

The building’s towering glass facade was intimidating, its polished surface reflecting the city lights. Jeongin hesitated for a moment before stepping inside, clutching the bento box close to his chest.

A security guard at the front desk immediately approached him. “Excuse me, sir. Do you have an appointment or an employee badge?”

Jeongin blinked, his nerves getting the better of him. “Uh, no, I don’t have an appointment, but I’m Lee Jeongin, Lee Minho’s husband. I brought him dinner.”

The receptionist behind the desk arched an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. “Husband?” she repeated, her tone questioning. “Let me verify that with his office.”

The receptionist picked up the phone, dialing quickly. “Chaeryeong-ssi, we have someone here claiming to be the CEO’s husband. He says his name is Lee Jeongin. Should we let him in?”

On the other end of the line, Chaeryeong’s response was immediate. “Jeongin? Oh, yes, let him through!”

The receptionist’s demeanor shifted instantly, her expression softening. “Our apologies, Mr. Lee. Please, come with me to the elevators. Ms. Chaeryeong will meet you upstairs.”

Jeongin stepped out of the elevator onto the executive floor, his eyes wide as he took in the immaculate surroundings. The space was quiet, with modern furniture and soft lighting giving it an air of professionalism. He looked around uncertainly, unsure of where to go.

“Jeongin-ssi!”

He turned at the sound of his name to see a familiar face walking toward him. Chaeryeong greeted him warmly, her smile bright and genuine.

“It’s so nice to see you again,” she said, bowing slightly.

“Hello,” Jeongin replied shyly, bowing in return. “Thank you for letting me in. I didn’t know if I’d even get this far.”

Chaeryeong chuckled. “Of course. I remember you from the wedding. What brings you here tonight?”

Jeongin held up the bento box. “I thought Minho might be hungry, so I brought him dinner. I didn’t know you’d still be here, though. I’m sorry I didn’t make an extra box for you.”

Chaeryeong waved a hand dismissively. “Oh, that’s so sweet of you! Don’t worry about me, I’m just finishing up some work. I’m sure Minho will appreciate this. Let me take you to his office.”

Standing outside Minho’s office door, Jeongin hesitated for a moment before knocking softly. The faint sound of his knuckles against the wood was almost drowned out by the hum of the air conditioning in the hallway. When there was no immediate response, Jeongin peeked in hesitantly, pushing the door open just enough to step inside.

The sight that greeted him made him pause. Minho was sitting at his desk, leaning back slightly in his chair. His tie was loosened, and the top button of his crisp white shirt was undone, revealing the strong line of his collarbone. The sleeves of his shirt were rolled up to his elbows, exposing his forearms, which were resting lightly on the desk. His dark hair was slightly disheveled, as if he’d run his fingers through it countless times over the course of the evening.

The soft light of the office lamp cast a warm glow over Minho, accentuating the focused yet tired expression on his face as he spoke into his phone. His voice, low and commanding, filled the room, carrying an authority that made Jeongin hesitate to interrupt.

But then, as if sensing his presence, Minho’s gaze shifted to the doorway. The moment his eyes landed on Jeongin, his expression softened, and a hint of a smile tugged at the corners of his lips. He raised a hand, gesturing for Jeongin to come in while finishing up his call.

“I’ll follow up with you tomorrow morning,” Minho said, his tone firm but calm. “Let’s leave it there for now.” He ended the call with a decisive click, placing his phone on the desk as he stood up to greet Jeongin properly.

“What are you doing here?” Minho asked, his voice carrying a mix of curiosity and surprise.

Jeongin stepped closer, holding up the bento box he had carefully prepared with both hands. A shy smile graced his lips as he said, “I thought you might be hungry, so I brought you dinner.”

For a moment, Minho simply looked at him, his gaze softening further as he took in Jeongin’s thoughtful gesture. The omega’s cheeks were lightly flushed, and there was a hint of nervousness in the way he shifted on his feet.

“You didn’t have to do that,” Minho said, his tone gentle as he took the box from Jeongin’s hands.

“I wanted to,” Jeongin replied earnestly, his voice barely above a whisper. “It was kinda my fault you had to miss so much work anyway… And you shouldn’t skip meals!”

Minho let out a low chuckle, shaking his head in disbelief, “Nothing’s your fault, alright?”

Jeongin nodded with a smile.They moved to a small table tucked into the corner of Minho’s office. Minho placed the bento box down, opening it to reveal a simple yet beautifully arranged meal. The sight of Jeongin’s effort made warmth bloom in his chest.

Minho took the first bite, savoring the flavors with a quiet hum of approval. “This is really good,” he said, glancing at Jeongin.

Jeongin’s smile grew, his eyes lighting up with pride. “I’m glad you like it.”

As they ate together, Jeongin occasionally glanced at Minho, watching as he devoured the meal with genuine appreciation. It was a rare moment of intimacy, the two of them sharing a quiet, domestic scene away from the hustle of Minho’s work.

Minho, in turn, made a mental note to remember this moment. The food was delicious, but more than that, it was the thoughtfulness behind Jeongin’s gesture that struck him. He realized how much he had taken such moments for granted.

“Thank you for this,” Minho said between bites, his voice soft but sincere.

Jeongin shook his head. “It’s nothing. I just wanted to make sure you were okay.”

Minho leaned back slightly, his gaze lingering on Jeongin for a moment. “You’re too good to me,” he repeated, his voice quieter this time, almost as if he was saying it to himself.

Jeongin ducked his head shyly at the praise, but the smile on his face spoke volumes.

Jeongin was insistent on waiting for Minho to finish, determined to go home together. Despite Minho’s gentle suggestion for him to head back first, Jeongin shook his head stubbornly. “I’ll wait,” he said with a firm pout, settling himself comfortably on the office couch.

Minho smiled softly at his omega’s persistence. “Suit yourself,” he murmured, returning to his desk to tackle the pile of work still demanding his attention.

As the hours stretched on, the office grew quieter, the only sounds being the faint hum of the air conditioning and the occasional scratch of Minho’s pen against paper. Jeongin sat on the couch, initially preoccupied with his phone, scrolling aimlessly to pass the time. However, as the night deepened, his eyelids began to droop, and his phone slipped from his fingers onto the couch cushions.

Minho glanced up from his desk at the sound and found Jeongin leaning against the armrest, his breathing slow and even, eyes closed. The dim light cast a soft glow on Jeongin’s peaceful face, making him look even more delicate and endearing.

A quiet chuckle escaped Minho’s lips. He leaned back in his chair, stretching his tired muscles, before standing up and walking over to where Jeongin lay. His omega had curled up tightly, his arms hugging a cushion close to his chest. Minho’s coat caught his eye, hanging neatly on the rack, and he grabbed it without hesitation.

Carefully, Minho draped the coat over Jeongin’s small frame, tucking it gently around his shoulders to keep him warm. He crouched beside the couch, taking a moment to simply look at Jeongin.

Minho reached out, brushing a strand of hair away from Jeongin’s forehead with a tenderness he reserved only for his mate. His fingers lingered briefly, marveling at the softness of Jeongin’s skin. Unable to resist, he leaned down and pressed a light, lingering kiss to Jeongin’s forehead.

“You’re too good to me,” Minho whispered, his voice barely audible in the quiet room.

Jeongin stirred slightly at the contact, his brow furrowing for a second before settling back into a serene expression. Minho smiled to himself, his heart swelling with affection.

Straightening up, Minho returned to his desk, his focus renewed as he worked diligently to finish his tasks. Every so often, his eyes flicked back to the couch, a small smile tugging at his lips as he watched over his sleeping omega.

Jeongin stirred awake in the car, blinking sleepily. “How did I get here?” he mumbled.

Minho smirked, keeping his eyes on the road. “I carried you.”

Jeongin sat up straighter, his cheeks flushing. “You carried me?!”

“You were fast asleep,” Minho teased. “What was I supposed to do? Leave you there?”

Jeongin huffed, crossing his arms. “Still...”

Minho chuckled, reaching over to ruffle Jeongin’s hair affectionately. “Relax. You’re light as a feather. Now, let’s get home.”

Despite his embarrassment, Jeongin couldn’t stop the small smile tugging at his lips as the car drove through the quiet city streets, bringing them back to the comfort of home.

Chapter Text

The soft knock on Minho’s office door broke the quiet hum of his focus. He glanced up, mildly surprised to see Jeongin peeking in, his hands clasped nervously in front of him.

“Come in,” Minho said, gesturing toward the chair opposite his desk.

Jeongin stepped inside, closing the door gently behind him. His wide eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and hesitation, and Minho immediately noticed the fidgeting of Jeongin’s fingers, a clear sign he was gearing up to ask for something.

“What is it?” Minho asked, leaning back in his chair and folding his arms.

Jeongin hesitated for a moment, biting his lower lip before finally blurting out, “Can my friends come over? From Busan?”

Minho raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Your friends?”

Jeongin nodded eagerly, his expression brightening. “Yes! My childhood friends. They’ve been asking to visit ever since I moved here, and I thought... maybe now’s a good time?”

Minho leaned forward slightly, resting his elbows on his desk. “How long are we talking about? A day?”

Jeongin shook his head quickly. “No, not just a day. It’s a long drive from Busan, so I was thinking they could stay for three days and two nights. Just enough time to catch up and for you to meet them.”

Minho’s skeptical expression returned. “Three days, Jeongin? That’s a lot.”

Jeongin tilted his head slightly, his eyes widening in that endearing way Minho found impossible to resist. “It’s only fair, Minho. I’ve already met your friends, and they’re wonderful, but you haven’t met mine. Don’t you want to know the people who’ve been a big part of my life?”

Minho rubbed his temple, sighing. He couldn’t argue with that logic, but the idea of having strangers, albeit Jeongin’s friends, in his space for that long wasn’t exactly appealing.

Sensing Minho’s hesitation, Jeongin stepped closer, his voice softening. “Please? They’re really nice, and they’ve been so supportive of me. I promise they won’t cause any trouble.”

Minho leaned back in his chair, watching Jeongin carefully. The earnestness in his tone, the way his fingers twisted together nervously, and the hopeful gleam in his eyes all worked together to chip away at Minho’s resolve. Finally, with a resigned sigh, he said, “Alright. They can come, but only for three days.”

Jeongin’s face lit up immediately, his entire demeanor shifting from cautious to jubilant in an instant. “Really?”

“Yes, really,” Minho replied with a small smirk. “But you’re in charge of hosting them. I’ll help where I can, but you’re the one responsible for making sure everything goes smoothly.”

Jeongin practically bounced in place, his excitement bubbling over. Without thinking, he leaned down and pressed a quick kiss to Minho’s cheek. “Thank you, Minho!” he exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine gratitude.

Minho blinked, momentarily stunned, as Jeongin dashed out of the office. He barely had time to react before he heard the sound of hurried footsteps fading down the hall.

Upstairs, Jeongin threw himself onto his bed, grabbing his phone and opening the group chat he shared with his friends. His fingers flew across the keyboard as he typed out the exciting news.

innie

HE SAID YES!!!

you guys can visit me!!

sungie

ARE U SERIOUS?!

OH MY GOD THIS IS SO GREAT

minnie

so we finally get a chance to meet your alpha huh?

sungie

what a bad friend

ur not happy to see innie?

minnie

never said that

hyungie

see u soon aegi!

Jeongin giggled at their responses, his legs kicking the air as he typed back and forth with them. He could already picture their reactions to the house, the cats, and, of course, Minho.

Meanwhile, Minho sat in his office, his hand resting on his cheek where Jeongin’s lips had briefly brushed. A small, almost amused smile tugged at his lips. Despite his initial reluctance, he found himself looking forward to meeting the people who had been such an important part of Jeongin’s life before they met.

Dinner was a quiet affair, the soft clinking of cutlery filling the air as Minho and Jeongin sat across from each other at the dining table. The faint scent of the freshly cooked stir-fry Jeongin had prepared still lingered in the room, mingling with the warmth of domesticity.

Jeongin twirled his spoon absentmindedly in his bowl, a thoughtful expression on his face. Minho noticed, raising an eyebrow. “What’s on your mind?”

Jeongin hesitated for a moment before speaking, his tone light but laced with just a hint of nervousness. “Are you free tomorrow?”

Minho set his chopsticks down, leaning back slightly. “Depends. Why?”

“Well,” Jeongin began, his eyes darting to his bowl as he toyed with his food, “I was thinking of going out to pick up a few things for my friends before they arrive. You know, snacks, maybe some toiletries... just to make sure they’re comfortable.” He looked up at Minho with a hopeful glint in his eyes. “It won’t be expensive, I promise.”

Minho scoffed lightly, picking up his glass of water. “I don’t care about the cost, Jeongin. Get whatever you need.”

Jeongin’s lips twitched into a small smile, but then a playful glint entered his eyes. “What if I max out your card?” he teased, leaning forward slightly as if to gauge Minho’s reaction.

Minho chuckled, the sound deep and amused. “It’s your card, remember? And I’d actually like to see you try.”

Jeongin gasped mockingly, clutching his chest. “The audacity!”

They both burst into laughter, the warm sound filling the room. Jeongin’s cheeks were flushed from giggling, and Minho found himself smiling wider than he had in days.

As their laughter died down, Jeongin’s expression softened. He glanced at Minho hesitantly, his fingers tracing idle patterns on the edge of the table. “Hey, Minho?”

“Yeah?” Minho replied, his tone lighter now after their shared amusement.

Jeongin hesitated for a beat before looking up at him. “Can we... sleep together tonight?”

Minho froze momentarily, his mind catching up to the quiet vulnerability in Jeongin’s request. His alpha stirred within him, pushing at the edges of his control, and Minho knew there was no way he could refuse.

Clearing his throat, he leaned forward, resting his arms on the table as he met Jeongin’s gaze. “You’re really testing my resolve, you know that?” he said, his voice low but teasing.

Jeongin tilted his head, his brows furrowing. “You can say no if you don’t want to,” he muttered, suddenly looking a little embarrassed.

Minho sighed, shaking his head as a fond smile crept onto his lips. “Of course, I want to. How could I not when you look at me like that?”

Jeongin’s face lit up, a bright smile spreading across his lips. “Really?”

Minho rolled his eyes playfully. “Yes, really. Now finish your dinner. You’re going to need the energy to drag me out shopping tomorrow.”

Jeongin laughed, the sound bright and carefree, as he returned his attention to his bowl. Minho watched him quietly, a warmth blooming in his chest.

When they finally headed upstairs for the night, Jeongin’s excitement was palpable. He clung to Minho’s arm as they walked down the hallway, chatting animatedly about what he wanted to buy and how he planned to spoil his friends.

Minho couldn’t help but smile at his enthusiasm, though a small part of him selfishly wished Jeongin would focus on spoiling him instead. But as Jeongin’s laughter echoed softly in the hallway, Minho decided that this, Jeongin’s happiness, was enough.

The soft glow of the bedside lamp bathed the room in warm light as Minho and Jeongin prepared for bed. The quiet hum of the city outside was a comforting background noise, but inside the room, the atmosphere was tranquil and intimate.

Jeongin, dressed in an oversized t-shirt and shorts, sat cross-legged on the bed, brushing his hair absentmindedly. His movements were slow, his body language relaxed, but his eyes kept darting toward Minho, who was tidying up some papers at the desk.

“You don’t have to work anymore tonight,” Jeongin said softly, his voice breaking the comfortable silence.

Minho turned, raising an eyebrow at him. “I’m not working. I’m just organizing things for tomorrow.”

Jeongin pouted slightly, setting down the brush and pulling the covers over his lap. “You’re always so busy.”

Minho sighed, his expression softening as he stood and walked toward the bed. He sat on the edge, facing Jeongin. “I know. I’ll try to be better about it.”

Jeongin’s pout turned into a small smile, and he reached out to tug at Minho’s sleeve. “Come to bed, then.”

Minho chuckled, the sound low and comforting. “Bossy, aren’t you?”

Jeongin gave him a mock glare but scooted over to make room. Minho slipped under the covers beside him, adjusting the pillows as Jeongin curled up on his side to face him.

The moment felt fragile yet precious, and Jeongin couldn’t help but stare at Minho’s face, now softened by the dim light and the absence of his usual serious expression.

“Thank you for letting me sleep here,” Jeongin murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

Minho turned his head to look at him, one corner of his mouth quirking up. “You don’t have to thank me, Jeongin. This is your home too.”

Jeongin’s cheeks flushed, and he buried his face into the pillow, mumbling something incoherent.

“What was that?” Minho teased, shifting closer to nudge Jeongin’s shoulder.

Jeongin peeked up at him, his fox-like eyes gleaming with mischief. “I said you’re being really sweet tonight. I like it.”

Minho rolled his eyes playfully, though his lips twitched into a small smile. “Don’t get used to it.”

Jeongin laughed softly, and Minho reached out to tuck a strand of hair behind his ear. The gesture was gentle, almost absentminded, but it made Jeongin’s heart flutter.

As the quiet of the night enveloped them, Jeongin’s eyes grew heavy, and he shuffled closer to Minho, resting his head against the alpha’s shoulder. Minho stilled for a moment before wrapping an arm around Jeongin, pulling him closer.

“You’re warm,” Jeongin murmured sleepily.

“And you’re clingy,” Minho replied, his voice laced with fondness.

Jeongin hummed in contentment, nuzzling closer. “Goodnight, Minho.”

Minho pressed a kiss to the top of Jeongin’s head, his voice soft as he whispered, “Goodnight, Jeongin.”

For the first time in a while, the house felt perfectly still and peaceful as they drifted off to sleep, tangled together under the soft glow of the lamp.

The sun was bright, casting a warm glow over the streets as Minho and Jeongin stepped out of the car, hand in hand. They had decided to visit one of the larger shopping districts downtown to pick up everything Jeongin wanted for his friends’ visit. Minho glanced at Jeongin, who was practically bouncing with excitement, his eyes darting from one storefront to the next.

“You’re really excited about this, aren’t you?” Minho asked, smirking.

Jeongin turned to him, his fox-like eyes sparkling. “Of course! I want everything to be perfect for them. It’s their first time visiting since I moved here.”

Minho chuckled, squeezing Jeongin’s hand. “Alright, lead the way. Just don’t go overboard.”

Jeongin grinned mischievously. “No promises.”

They entered the first store, a trendy home goods shop filled with colorful decor and unique knick-knacks. Jeongin immediately made a beeline for a shelf of candles, picking up one after another to smell them.

“This one smells like vanilla,” he said, holding it up to Minho’s nose.

Minho leaned down, inhaling the sweet scent. “It’s nice.”

Jeongin placed it in the basket Minho was holding. “It’s perfect for Seungmin. He loves this kind of stuff.”

As they wandered through the aisles, Jeongin grabbed a few more items: a soft blanket, a cute mug with a quirky design, and a small potted plant. Minho watched with quiet amusement, letting Jeongin take charge.

“You’re really good at this,” Minho remarked as Jeongin debated between two sets of coasters.

“Good at what?” Jeongin asked, tilting his head.

“Knowing exactly what your friends would like.”

Jeongin smiled shyly, placing one set back on the shelf. “I just want them to feel at home.”

Minho’s heart softened at the sincerity in Jeongin’s voice. He leaned down, pressing a quick kiss to Jeongin’s temple. “They’re lucky to have you.”

Jeongin flushed, tugging him toward the next section. “Come on, we’re not done yet!”

Their next stop was a gourmet food store. Jeongin’s eyes lit up as he browsed the shelves, picking out snacks and ingredients he knew his friends would enjoy. Minho trailed behind him, occasionally tossing items into the basket himself.

“You’re spoiling them,” Minho teased as Jeongin grabbed a box of imported chocolates.

Jeongin shot him a playful glare. “And what about you? You just put three bags of chips in there.”

Minho shrugged. “They looked good.”

Jeongin rolled his eyes but couldn’t hide his smile.

After several more stops, including a boutique for clothing and accessories, Jeongin declared they had everything they needed. They loaded their bags into the car and headed to a nearby cafe for a quick break.

Jeongin sipped on his iced latte, looking content as he gazed out at the bustling street. “Thank you for coming with me today, Minho.”

Minho leaned back in his chair, his expression relaxed. “I didn’t really have a choice, did I?”

Jeongin laughed, reaching across the table to poke Minho’s arm. “Admit it. You had fun.”

Minho smirked. “Maybe a little.”

Jeongin beamed, his excitement infectious. “I can’t wait to set everything up when we get home. It’s going to be perfect.”

Minho reached out, taking Jeongin’s hand in his. “It already is. Because you’re the one doing it.”

Jeongin’s cheeks turned pink, and he looked away, flustered. “Stop being so sweet all of a sudden.”

Minho chuckled, giving Jeongin’s hand a gentle squeeze. 

After they returned home, the shopping bags cluttered the entryway as Jeongin eagerly started unpacking. He sorted the items carefully on the kitchen counter, his enthusiasm evident in the way his hands moved with a sense of purpose. Minho leaned against the doorway, watching his omega with a soft smile.

Minho pushed off the doorway and walked over to him, helping unload some of the bags. “You know they’re just here to see you, right? They won’t care if everything isn’t perfect.”

Jeongin pouted, his lips forming a small, adorable curve. “But I care! I want them to feel special.”

Minho chuckled, placing a hand on Jeongin’s head and ruffling his hair lightly. “Alright, alright. Let’s get this done then.”

Together, they began organizing the items. Jeongin took charge of decorating the guest rooms with the candles, plants, and soft blankets he’d picked out. Minho followed behind, adjusting things subtly when Jeongin wasn’t looking, making sure everything was balanced and tidy.

“Are you changing what I did?” Jeongin suddenly asked, catching Minho in the act.

Minho froze, a guilty look crossing his face. “Uh… maybe?”

Jeongin narrowed his eyes but couldn’t hold back his laughter. “You’re such a perfectionist, Minho.”

“And you’re not?” Minho shot back, smirking.

Jeongin stuck his tongue out at him before moving to the kitchen to organize the snacks and ingredients they’d bought. Minho joined him, leaning against the counter as Jeongin arranged everything neatly.

“So, what’s the plan tomorrow?” Minho asked, watching him with interest.

“I thought we’d have a nice breakfast together, then maybe show them around the area. I saw a cute café nearby that I think they’d like,” Jeongin replied, his excitement bubbling over.

Minho nodded. “Sounds good. I’ll drive.”

Jeongin turned to him with wide eyes. “Really? You don’t mind?”

Minho raised an eyebrow. “I agreed to let them stay, didn’t I? Might as well do it properly.”

Jeongin’s smile lit up the room, and before he could stop himself, he threw his arms around Minho in a sudden hug. Minho stiffened for a moment, caught off guard, but quickly relaxed and wrapped his arms around Jeongin’s smaller frame.

“Thank you, Minho,” Jeongin said softly, his voice muffled against Minho’s chest.

Minho pressed his chin lightly on Jeongin’s head. “You don’t have to thank me, you know.”

Jeongin pulled back slightly, looking up at him with a shy grin. “I still want to.”

Minho sighed, though his lips twitched upward. “Alright. Let’s finish this up so you can get some rest.”

Jeongin nodded eagerly and got back to work, his excitement palpable. Minho found himself smiling as he watched him, already mentally preparing himself for the whirlwind that the next few days would bring. But deep down, he didn’t mind. Seeing Jeongin this happy was worth it.

Chapter Text

The morning sunlight poured through the dining room windows, bathing the space in a warm, golden glow. Jeongin was practically vibrating with energy as he set the table, his movements quick and slightly erratic. He’d already laid out bowls of steaming rice, plates of side dishes, and a large pan of freshly cooked kimchi pancakes. Minho, seated at the table, watched with mild amusement as his omega darted back and forth between the kitchen and dining room.

“Jeongin, sit down. You’re making me dizzy,” Minho said, his voice tinged with laughter.

“I just want to make sure everything is perfect!” Jeongin replied, his hands full with a small plate of freshly cut fruit.

Minho reached out and gently grabbed Jeongin’s wrist as he set the fruit down. “It’s perfect. You’ve already done more than enough.”

Jeongin blinked at him, his wide fox-like eyes momentarily startled before he nodded sheepishly. “Okay, okay. I’ll sit.”

He finally took his seat across from Minho, though his legs bounced under the table, and his fingers fidgeted with the edge of his napkin. Minho raised an eyebrow as he started scooping rice into his bowl.

“Are you happy?” Minho asked, taking a bite of the savory pancake.

Jeongin beamed at him, his excitement practically spilling over. “Of course! It’s been so long since I’ve seen them, and now they’re coming here. To our house! And staying for three days! I just want everything to go smoothly.”

Minho chuckled, shaking his head. “You’ve said that about five times already. Everything’s going to be fine, Jeongin. You’re worrying over nothing.”

“I know,” Jeongin said, though his voice was still tinged with nervous energy. He took a small bite of his food, barely tasting it as his mind raced with plans for the day. “I just want them to feel welcome. This is the first time they’ll see where I live now, and I want them to like it here.”

“They’ll like it because you’re here,” Minho replied matter-of-factly, causing Jeongin to blush furiously.

“Stop saying things like that,” Jeongin mumbled, covering his face with his hands.

Minho smirked, enjoying the reaction as he reached for his coffee. “What? It’s true.”

Jeongin peeked at him through his fingers, his pout making Minho’s smirk widen. “I’m serious, though. Do you think they’ll like you?”

Minho raised an eyebrow, leaning back in his chair. “Why wouldn’t they? I’m pretty great, if I do say so myself.”

Jeongin groaned, his hands dropping to the table as he gave Minho a playful glare. “You’re impossible.”

Minho shrugged, taking another bite of his pancake. “Relax, Jeongin. They’ll like me, and even if they don’t, it doesn’t matter. I’m not trying to impress them. You’re the only one I care about.”

The sincerity in Minho’s voice made Jeongin pause. His cheeks flushed again, but this time, his smile was softer. “Thanks, Minho.”

Minho nodded, his expression calm but warm. “Now eat your breakfast.”

Jeongin laughed, finally relaxing as he dug into his food with gusto. The nervous energy that had consumed him earlier began to fade, replaced by genuine excitement for the day ahead.

By the time they finished breakfast, Jeongin was practically bouncing in his seat again, already listing out everything they needed to do before his friends arrived. Minho shook his head fondly, thinking to himself that this day was going to be a whirlwind but one he didn’t mind getting caught up in.

Minho stood beside Jeongin by the gate, the soft afternoon breeze doing little to calm the tension that had already begun building in his chest. Jeongin, on the other hand, was practically bouncing on the balls of his feet, his excitement palpable as they waited for the car carrying his long-time friends to arrive. Minho’s sharp eyes darted down the road, and the moment the car came into view, he straightened up, his stance subtly protective.

The car came to a halt, and the first to step out was a slightly smaller alpha with sharp eyes and a mischievous grin. Without hesitation, Jisung rushed over to Jeongin, wrapping him in a bear hug so tight that Jeongin let out a small squeak of surprise.

“I missed you so much, Innie!” Jisung exclaimed, swaying them both side to side as if he couldn’t get close enough.

Minho’s nose twitched at the strong, unmistakable scent of an alpha clinging to Jisung. His gaze sharpened, his scent shifting subtly to something more possessive. He watched the way Jisung hugged Jeongin with fervor, his own instincts screaming to step in and pull Jeongin away. Minho’s jaw clenched as he fought the urge to snarl.

Just as Minho was about to take a step forward, a calm yet sharp voice interrupted.

“Relax, alpha,” came the voice from the car.

Minho turned his head sharply, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the figure emerging next. It was a lean, composed omega with sharp features and a smirk playing on his lips. Minho’s sharp gaze softened just a fraction when he noticed the omega’s easy stance, though he still kept his guard up.

“That right there,” the omega said, motioning toward Jisung with a casual wave of his hand, “is my stupid alpha.”

Minho’s eyes darted down to the omega’s neck, immediately spotting the clear mating mark. His shoulders relaxed slightly, though his scent was still cautious.

“You’ve got nothing to worry about,” Seungmin added, smirking knowingly as he walked past Minho to greet Jeongin. “I wouldn’t let this idiot do anything inappropriate.”

Minho didn’t reply, but his gaze lingered on Jisung for a moment longer before turning back to Seungmin.

Jeongin, meanwhile, had extricated himself from Jisung’s enthusiastic hug and was now beaming at Seungmin. The omega smiled softly as Jeongin pulled him into a warm hug, exchanging quiet greetings.

Minho’s attention shifted again when the driver’s door opened, and another figure stepped out. This time, Minho’s senses went on high alert. The man who emerged was muscular, and carried the unmistakable presence of a dominant alpha. His broad shoulders and confident demeanor made it immediately clear that he was used to commanding attention.

Minho’s scent faltered for a moment, souring slightly as his gaze locked onto the new arrival. He stepped forward, his eyes narrowing as he assessed the man.

“And you?” Minho asked, his tone sharp and direct, his expression carefully neutral.

The alpha blinked, clearly caught off guard, before pointing to himself. “Me?”

“Yes,” Minho replied curtly, his voice clipped. “Are you mated as well?”

The alpha’s lips curled into an amused smirk as he seemed to realize the tension emanating from Minho. “No,” he replied casually, his tone almost teasing.

Before Minho could respond, Jeongin let out an excited squeal. “Channie hyung!!”

Minho watched, utterly dumbfounded, as Jeongin ran past him and straight toward the dominant alpha. Jeongin practically launched himself into the alpha’s arms, hugging him tightly as if they were long-lost family.

Minho’s scent soured even further, the sharpness almost palpable. His hands curled into fists at his sides as he tried to keep his composure, though his instincts were screaming to yank Jeongin away.

Jisung and Seungmin, standing off to the side, exchanged a knowing look before bursting into laughter.

“Innie,” Jisung said, grinning cheekily as he nudged Jeongin with his elbow. “I don’t think your alpha likes you hugging other alphas.”

Jeongin pulled back from Chan, turning to glare at Minho, his arms crossed defensively. “Yeah? Well, he’s going to have to get used to me hugging my friends,” he said with a huff.

Jisung, Seungmin, and even Chan laughed, the sound filling the air with a lightheartedness that contrasted with Minho’s stormy expression.

Minho didn’t say anything, but his jaw tightened as he tried to calm the instinctive growl threatening to escape. He told himself it was fine, that these were just Jeongin’s friends, but his alpha side didn’t like it one bit.

The tension in Minho’s chest hadn’t entirely eased by the time they made their way inside. Jeongin was practically glowing with excitement as he led his friends into the living room, chatting animatedly about the house and what they’d been up to since the marriage. Minho followed a few steps behind, his sharp gaze still occasionally flicking toward Jisung and Chan.

Seungmin was the first to notice Minho’s lingering unease. The omega smirked to himself before nudging Jisung in the ribs, whispering something that made the alpha roll his eyes.

“Minho-ssi,” Seungmin began, his tone light and teasing, “are you going to keep glaring at us all night, or are you going to sit down and join the conversation?”

Jeongin turned at Seungmin’s words, looking between Minho and his friends before placing his hands on his hips. “Minho, stop being weird! They’re my friends, not some kind of intruders.”

Minho sighed, forcing his shoulders to relax. “I’m not glaring,” he muttered, though the corner of his mouth twitched ever so slightly.

“Sure you’re not,” Jisung chimed in with a grin, flopping onto the couch and pulling Jeongin down beside him. “We’re harmless, I swear. Well, most of the time.”

Chan chuckled as he took a seat in one of the armchairs, leaning back with an air of ease that Minho found annoyingly confident. “Relax, Minho. We’re here to spend time with Jeongin, not cause trouble.”

Minho raised an eyebrow but refrained from commenting, his focus shifting to Jeongin, who was now laughing at something Jisung had said. Despite the sour tinge in his scent, he couldn’t help the faint warmth that bloomed in his chest at the sight of Jeongin’s joy.

After a few minutes of casual chatter, Jeongin jumped up and clapped his hands. “Okay, enough sitting around! Let’s get you all settled. Minho, can you help bring their bags in?”

Minho blinked, momentarily caught off guard by the request, before nodding. “Sure.”

He followed Jeongin and the others back outside, where the car was still parked in the driveway. Jisung and Chan began unloading the trunk, with Seungmin standing off to the side, inspecting the garden.

“Nice place you’ve got here,” Seungmin commented, glancing over his shoulder at Minho. “Jeongin’s mentioned how well you’ve been treating him.”

Minho paused, his hands on one of the bags, and turned to Seungmin. “Has he?”

Seungmin nodded, his smirk softening into something more genuine. “He’s happy, Minho. That’s all we care about.”

The sincerity in Seungmin’s tone caught Minho off guard, and for a moment, he simply stared at the omega. Then, he gave a small nod. “I’ll do my best to keep it that way.”

By the time they’d brought all the luggage inside, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm glow through the windows. Jeongin had already busied himself in the kitchen, preparing drinks and snacks for his friends. Minho watched him from the doorway, the slight furrow in his brow softening as Jeongin’s laughter filled the air.

“Minho,” Jeongin called, catching his eye. “Come sit with us! You’re part of this, too.”

Minho hesitated for only a moment before walking over to join them, the scent of his mate’s happiness slowly overriding the possessiveness still lingering in his chest. 

The lively hum of conversation grew louder as the group gathered around the coffee table, now laden with bottles of soju, beer, and snacks. Jeongin’s eyes sparkled with excitement as he poured drinks for everyone, the atmosphere warm and relaxed.

“Cheers!” Jisung shouted, lifting his glass high. Everyone followed, clinking their glasses together before taking their first sips.

Jeongin giggled after his first shot of soju, his cheeks already tinged pink. “This is nice,” he said softly, leaning into Minho’s side.

“Don’t overdo it, Innie,” Minho said, his voice laced with concern as he refilled his glass. He wasn’t worried for himself, Minho could hold his liquor, but Jeongin was clearly a lightweight.

Jisung downed his drink and immediately coughed, earning a laugh from Seungmin, who looked just as rosy-cheeked. “You’re such a lightweight,” Seungmin teased, though his own words were starting to slur.

“Look who’s talking!” Jisung shot back, leaning heavily against Seungmin.

Meanwhile, Chan seemed unaffected, casually sipping his drink while keeping an eye on everyone. Minho noticed this and gave him an approving nod. It was clear Chan had the same protective instincts when it came to Jeongin and their shared circle of friends.

Jeongin was radiant in his element. He flitted between his friends, joking with Jisung, teasing Seungmin, and laughing at something Chan had said. His excitement was palpable, and Minho couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride, and possessiveness, watching him.

“You’re staring,” Seungmin’s voice cut through his thoughts, quiet but pointed.

Minho turned his head to find the omega sitting beside him, a sly smirk on his face.

“Isn’t that allowed?” Minho replied, keeping his tone even.

Seungmin chuckled softly. “I suppose it is. Just don’t stare too hard; you might scare someone.”

Minho scoffed, leaning back against the couch. “I’m not trying to scare anyone.”

“No?” Seungmin tilted his head. “Because earlier, you looked ready to rip Jisung and Chan apart.”

Minho didn’t respond immediately, his gaze shifting back to Jeongin. “They’re… touchy,” he finally said, almost begrudgingly.

Seungmin raised an eyebrow. “They’re his friends. And for the record, they’re harmless. Jisung’s glued to me, and Chan? He’s more like a big brother to Jeongin than anything else.”

Minho frowned slightly, but Seungmin’s words eased some of the tension in his chest.

“Relax,” Seungmin added, his tone gentler now. “Jeongin’s crazy about you. Anyone with eyes can see it.”

Before Minho could respond, Jeongin appeared in front of them, holding a plate of freshly cut fruit.

“What are you two whispering about?” Jeongin asked, narrowing his eyes playfully.

“Just talking about you,” Seungmin said with a grin, earning a suspicious look from Jeongin.

“You better not be saying anything embarrassing,” Jeongin warned before turning to Minho. 

Jeongin, had grown bolder after a few drinks. With a soft giggle, he slid onto Minho’s lap, wrapping his arms around his alpha’s neck. “You’re so comfy,” Jeongin murmured, his voice slightly slurred as he nuzzled against Minho’s shoulder.

Minho stiffened for a moment, his protective instincts kicking in as he glanced at the others. But all he saw were indulgent smiles, and Jisung teasingly whistled.

“Oh, he’s gone full clingy omega,” Jisung joked.

Jeongin waved a hand dismissively but didn’t move from Minho’s lap. “Shush, Jisung,” he mumbled, closing his eyes.

Minho’s arms instinctively wrapped around Jeongin, holding him securely. “Lightweights,” he muttered under his breath, though his tone was filled with fondness.

Chan leaned back in his seat, sipping from his glass. “He really trusts you, huh?”

Minho glanced at him, his hold on Jeongin tightening slightly. “He’s my mate. It’s my job to make sure he feels safe.”

Chan’s gaze softened, a rare vulnerability showing in his usually calm demeanor. “You’re good for him. You know that, right?”

Minho tilted his head, studying the older alpha. “You’re protective of him too,” he observed.

Chan shrugged, his lips curling into a small smile. “He’s family. I’ve watched over him for years. He’s always been this bright, bubbly kid who doesn’t realize how much people cherish him.”

Minho’s jaw tightened slightly. “I know that.”

Chan raised his glass in agreement. “Good. Because if you ever don’t, you’ll have me to answer to.”

Minho smirked at the challenge. “You’ll never have to worry about that.”

As the room grew quieter, the only sound was Jeongin’s soft breathing. Minho glanced down at his mate, who was now fast asleep, his face tucked into Minho’s shoulder. A rare, unguarded smile crossed Minho’s face as he adjusted his hold to keep Jeongin comfortable.

“He’s lucky to have you,” Chan said after a moment.

Minho met his gaze, his expression serious. “No. I’m lucky to have him.”

Chan chuckled softly, standing to stretch. “Alright, I’ll take care of those two lovebirds,” he said, motioning to Jisung and Seungmin, who were half-asleep and leaning on each other.

Minho nodded. “Thanks.”

As Chan walked away, Minho stayed where he was, cradling Jeongin in his arms. 

Minho glanced down at Jeongin, who was still nestled against him, sound asleep. His mate’s face was relaxed, his soft breaths tickling Minho’s neck.

With a quiet sigh, Minho carefully stood, cradling Jeongin in his arms. The omega stirred slightly, mumbling incoherently, but didn’t wake. Minho adjusted his hold and glanced back at the others.

“I’ll take him to bed,” Minho said, his voice low.

Chan gave him a small nod, ushering Jisung and Seungmin towards the guest rooms. “Good luck,” he said with a teasing smirk.

Minho rolled his eyes and made his way upstairs. As he entered his room, he gently laid Jeongin down on the bed. The omega groaned softly, curling into the blanket, his scent sweet and faintly muddled from the alcohol.

Minho knelt beside him, brushing a stray strand of hair from Jeongin’s face. “You’re a handful, you know that?” he murmured, though his voice was filled with fondness.

Jeongin’s eyes fluttered open slightly, glassy and unfocused. “Minho?” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

“I’m here, Innie,” Minho said softly, taking his hand.

Jeongin blinked up at him, his lips curving into a sleepy smile. “You’re so pretty,” he slurred, reaching up to pat Minho’s cheek clumsily.

Minho chuckled, catching Jeongin’s hand and holding it. “You’re drunk, and you’re not making sense.”

Jeongin pouted, his lower lip jutting out adorably. “I’m not drunk. Just… a little sleepy.”

Minho leaned closer, his expression softening. “A little sleepy, huh? Let’s get you more comfortable.”

He moved to the wardrobe and pulled out one of Jeongin’s oversized shirts. Returning to the bed, he gently sat Jeongin up. The omega swayed slightly, blinking blearily at Minho.

“Arms up,” Minho instructed, holding the shirt.

Jeongin complied sluggishly, and Minho quickly changed him out of his slightly rumpled clothes into the clean shirt. Once Jeongin was dressed, Minho guided him to lie back down, tucking the blanket around him.

“Water,” Minho muttered to himself, heading to the bathroom to grab a glass. When he returned, Jeongin was half-asleep, his hand reaching out as if searching for something.

Minho sat on the edge of the bed, taking Jeongin’s hand in his. “I’m right here,” he said, pressing the glass to Jeongin’s lips. “Drink a little. You’ll feel better.”

Jeongin sipped obediently, though his eyes remained half-closed. “You’re too good to me,” he murmured, his words slurring together.

Minho smiled faintly, setting the glass aside and leaning down to press a soft kiss to Jeongin’s forehead. “And you’re too cute for your own good,” he replied.

Jeongin hummed, already drifting back to sleep. Minho stayed by his side for a moment longer, watching the peaceful rise and fall of Jeongin’s chest.

Shaking his head fondly, Minho turned off the bedside lamp and climbed into bed beside him. As soon as Minho lay down, Jeongin instinctively moved closer, his head resting against Minho’s shoulder.

Minho sighed, wrapping an arm around his mate and pulling him closer. “You’re lucky you’re cute,” he whispered into the quiet room.

Jeongin didn’t reply, but the soft smile on his lips said everything.

Chapter Text

The group strolled through the bustling streets of the city, the crisp morning air alive with the hum of distant chatter and the occasional honk of a car. Jeongin walked a step ahead of them, a noticeable spring in his step as his eyes darted from storefronts to the lively street performers scattered along the way. Minho trailed behind, his hand casually resting in his pocket, his sharp gaze flickering between Jeongin and the world around them.

"Where exactly are we going, Innie?" Minho finally asked, his tone light and teasing.

Jeongin turned around to face him, walking backward now with a wide grin. “Oh! There’s this cute café I saw! I’ve been wanting to visit it for a while.”

Minho arched a brow. “A cute café, huh?”

“Yes!” Jeongin nodded enthusiastically, his excitement practically radiating off him. “It’s supposed to have the prettiest decor and the cutest desserts. I think it’s called… Pink Bunny?”

The moment the name left Jeongin’s lips, the group came to an abrupt halt. Minho stopped mid-step, his expression frozen in surprise. Chan raised an eyebrow, his lips parting slightly in disbelief. Jisung blinked rapidly as if trying to process what he’d just heard, while Seungmin’s mouth twitched upward, clearly fighting back a laugh.

Jeongin, oblivious to the sudden shift in energy, continued walking a few steps before realizing he was now alone. He turned back, his brows furrowing at the four equally stunned faces staring back at him. “What?”

Minho cleared his throat, schooling his expression into something more neutral. “Are you sure the name is… Pink Bunny?”

Jeongin nodded with the same enthusiasm, entirely unaware of their shared tension. “Yeah! It had these adorable pictures of bunny-shaped cakes and pastel furniture. Doesn’t it sound cute?”

Jisung opened his mouth, lifting a hand to gesture vaguely. “Innie, I don’t think—”

“Shh,” Seungmin cut in smoothly, stepping forward and slinging an arm around Jeongin’s shoulders. His grin widened as he looked back at the others. “Let him figure it out.”

Jeongin tilted his head, utterly confused. “Figure what out?”

“Nothing at all,” Seungmin replied with a chuckle, steering Jeongin forward with a mischievous glint in his eyes. “If Innie wants to go to Pink Bunny café, then we’re going to Pink Bunny café.”

Chan’s lips twitched as he exchanged a knowing glance with Minho, who merely smirked, his curiosity piqued. Minho followed after them, his long strides catching up quickly, his voice teasing as he muttered, “This is going to be interesting.”

The group resumed their walk, but the air was now charged with a mix of suppressed laughter and anticipation. Seungmin hummed nonchalantly as he guided Jeongin down the street, while Jisung muttered something under his breath that made Chan snicker.

Jeongin frowned slightly, looking between them all. “Why do I feel like you’re all laughing at something, and I don’t know what it is?”

“Because we are,” Seungmin said bluntly, ruffling Jeongin’s hair. “But don’t worry, you’ll know soon enough.”

Minho chuckled softly from behind, his eyes glinting with amusement. Whatever Jeongin had unknowingly gotten them into, it was bound to be memorable.

The atmosphere inside the Pink Bunny Café was unlike anything Jeongin had envisioned. It was dark but cozy, illuminated by soft pink and purple neon lights. The place had a strange allure, with plush heart-shaped seats, romantic low lighting, and faint music playing in the background. Jeongin led the group confidently, his eyes scanning for a cozy corner. Minho followed close behind, his sharp gaze taking in the décor, while the others exchanged amused glances, already sensing something wasn’t quite right.

“Over here!” Jeongin chirped, pointing to a corner booth with a semi-private feel.

They shuffled to the table, Jeongin smiling brightly as they settled into their seats. He looked entirely too pleased with himself, completely oblivious to the smirks and knowing glances being exchanged by his friends. Minho sat beside Jeongin, draping an arm casually over the back of the seat, while the others squeezed in around the table.

“This place is cute, isn’t it?” Jeongin said, beaming at the group.

“Adorable,” Seungmin deadpanned, his lips twitching into a smirk.

Jisung coughed into his fist, trying to stifle a laugh. “Yeah, uh… really cute.”

Before Jeongin could pick up on their odd reactions, a server approached. The sharp click of her heels on the polished floor turned their heads. Jeongin smiled politely, ready to place an order, but the rest of the group froze, their eyes widening.

The server was dressed in pink lingerie, delicate lace that hugged her body but somehow managed to remain on the cusp of "work-appropriate." She wore sheer stockings with garter belts, a pair of bunny ears perched on her head, and high heels that gave her an air of confidence as she sauntered toward them. Her sultry expression didn’t falter as she stopped at their table, leaning slightly toward Jeongin and Minho.

“Welcome to Pink Bunny,” she purred, her voice low and seductive. “What can I get for you boys?”

Jeongin blinked, clearly confused by her tone but oblivious to everything else. “Um…” He glanced at his friends, expecting one of them to jump in and order.

Minho tilted his head, his lips twitching, while Jisung and Chan were already shaking with barely contained laughter. Seungmin leaned back in his seat, a smug grin plastered across his face.

“What’s happening?” Jeongin asked, his tone betraying his mounting confusion.

Jisung lost it first, bursting into laughter so loud it drew the attention of a few nearby tables. Chan was quick to follow, doubling over as he clutched his stomach. Seungmin pressed a hand to his mouth, his shoulders shaking with restrained amusement. Even Minho couldn’t hold back a chuckle, though he tried to keep it subdued.

The server arched a brow, looking amused herself. Minho raised a hand apologetically, still grinning. “Sorry, could you give us a little more time?”

The server pouted playfully, leaning closer toward Jeongin. “Of course, sweetheart,” she cooed, blowing a kiss before sashaying away with a sway of her hips.

Jeongin’s jaw dropped as he turned to Minho, wide-eyed. “Why did she do that?!” he exclaimed, his voice pitching higher than usual. “Can’t she see we’re mated?”

The group’s laughter erupted even louder. Jisung practically slid out of his seat, tears streaming down his face. Chan slapped the table, wheezing for breath, while Seungmin casually leaned against the booth, his grin smug and unbothered.

Minho shook his head, still chuckling. “I don’t think that’s why, Jeongin.”

Jeongin’s brows furrowed in confusion. “What do you mean?”

Chan leaned forward, still grinning ear to ear. “Innie, look around.”

Jeongin hesitated but finally glanced around the café. His gaze landed on another server leaning over a table, her outfit even more revealing than the first. She giggled at something a customer said, placing a hand flirtatiously on his shoulder. Jeongin’s eyes darted to another corner, where a server was perched on a customer’s lap, casually chatting as though it was the most normal thing in the world.

Then his gaze shifted to the wall at the back of the café, and his heart sank. Rows of sex toys were displayed prominently, from fluffy handcuffs to items so elaborate he didn’t even know what they were for. His face turned beet red as realization hit him like a freight train.

“Oh no,” he whispered, his hands flying up to cover his face. “Oh no, no, no.”

The table burst into another round of uproarious laughter. Jisung slid back into his seat, wiping at his tear-streaked cheeks.

“I never expected Innie to bring us to a sex café!” Jisung howled, his voice cracking with glee.

“Stop laughing!” Jeongin shrieked, his voice muffled behind his hands.

“This is priceless,” Seungmin declared, leaning back with a smug smirk. “Absolutely priceless.”

Jeongin peeked out from behind his hands, glaring at them. “We have to leave. Right now!”

“Are you kidding?” Jisung said, grinning. “This is the most fun I’ve had in weeks.”

Chan nodded, his grin as wide as ever. “You’ve made our entire trip worth it, Jeongin. We’re staying.”

“Absolutely not,” Jeongin groaned, sinking into his seat in sheer mortification.

Minho, who had been mostly quiet, leaned closer to Jeongin and patted his head gently. “Don’t worry, bunny,” he murmured, his deep voice warm with amusement. “It’s not so bad.”

Jeongin peeked up at him, his lips jutting into a pout. “You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?”

Minho smirked. “A little.”

The table erupted into laughter once again, Jeongin groaning as he buried his face in his hands. This was definitely not what he had in mind when he suggested the Pink Bunny Café.

After everyone calmed down, well, mostly calmed down, Jeongin reluctantly peeked out from behind his hands. His face was still flushed, and his embarrassment hung in the air, but his friends were having far too much fun to let him wallow for long.

“Alright, alright,” Minho said, raising a hand to signal the server back. “Let’s actually order something before they kick us out for loitering.”

The server returned, her heels clicking against the tiled floor. She leaned over the table again, her gaze sweeping over each of them. “Ready now?” she asked, her tone playful.

Jeongin tensed immediately, but Minho’s calm demeanor grounded him. “We’ll take a round of coffees,” Minho said smoothly, barely sparing her a glance as he scanned the menu. “And…” He nudged Jeongin, whose face was still buried in his hands. “What do you want, bunny?”

Jeongin peeked out, his lips pouting. “Just… iced tea,” he mumbled.

The server smirked, scribbling down the order. “And for the rest of you?”

“I’ll have the espresso,” Chan said with a polite smile.

“Black coffee for me,” Seungmin said casually, leaning back with his arms crossed.

Jisung grinned up at her. “Do you have anything sweet? Like a caramel macchiato or something?”

“We sure do,” the server replied, her tone dripping with charm.

“Perfect,” Jisung said, beaming.

“And for food?” the server prompted.

“Just snacks,” Minho interjected, cutting the back-and-forth short. “A platter of finger foods would be great.”

The server nodded and collected the menus, her gaze lingering on Minho before she sauntered off.

As soon as she was out of earshot, Jisung smirked. “She likes you, Minho.”

Minho shrugged, unbothered. “She can like whoever she wants.”

Jeongin frowned, glancing at Minho with a faint pout. “She’s too flirty,” he muttered under his breath.

Minho leaned toward Jeongin, his lips quirking into a smirk. “Don’t tell me you’re jealous.”

Jeongin’s cheeks burned. “I’m not!”

The table erupted into laughter again, with Chan patting Jeongin’s shoulder. “You’re too cute, Innie,” he teased.

“I’m never picking a place again,” Jeongin muttered, slouching in his seat.

Seungmin chuckled. “Honestly, I don’t think anyone could have predicted this.”

“Except me,” Jisung said, grinning mischievously. “I had a feeling something hilarious would happen.”

Jeongin rolled his eyes but couldn’t help the small smile tugging at his lips. He glanced around the café again, his embarrassment slowly fading as the playful banter continued. Despite the awkwardness, it was nice to see everyone enjoying themselves.

When their drinks and snacks arrived, Jeongin took a cautious sip of his iced tea, avoiding eye contact with the server, who placed the platter of finger foods in the center of the table.

“Anything else?” she asked, her voice silky.

“We’re good,” Minho said firmly, giving her a polite but dismissive nod.

She smiled, clearly undeterred. “Enjoy, boys.”

As she walked away, Jisung immediately grabbed a mini sandwich from the platter, popping it into his mouth. “Okay, but real talk,” he said between bites, “how did you not notice the… vibe of this place, Innie?”

Jeongin groaned, hiding his face in his hands again. “I thought it was a cute café!”

“It is cute,” Seungmin said dryly, biting into a cheese puff. “In a very… adult way.”

Chan chuckled, leaning back in his seat. “You’ve gotta admit, though, it’s a good story.”

Jeongin sighed. “A good story for you guys, maybe. I’ll never live this down.”

Minho, who had been quietly sipping his coffee, placed his cup down and ruffled Jeongin’s hair. “Don’t stress, bunny. You gave us all a good laugh.”

Jeongin peeked up at him, his lips curving into a small pout. “You’re not helping.”

Minho smirked. “I wasn’t trying to.”

The group laughed again, the awkwardness slowly melting away as they settled into the odd but entertaining atmosphere of the Pink Bunny Café.

The group settled into their seats, the initial shock of the café’s unique atmosphere giving way to laughter and lighthearted teasing. Jeongin sat stiffly, clutching his iced tea like a lifeline, his cheeks still bright red as he tried to avoid eye contact with the servers.

“You know,” Jisung began, breaking the silence as he reached for a mini sandwich from the platter, “for someone who thought they were leading us to a cute café, you’ve got a knack for surprises, Innie.”

Jeongin groaned, hiding his face in his hands. “I didn’t know! The name sounded so… innocent!”

Seungmin smirked, leaning back in his chair with a relaxed air. “Sure, it did. But you’ve got to admit, this place has its charm.”

Chan chuckled, his deep voice warm as he sipped his espresso. “I think we’re all just impressed, Jeongin. You managed to find a café none of us would’ve ever thought to try.”

“That’s one way to put it,” Minho said, his tone laced with amusement. His eyes flickered to Jeongin, a small smile playing at his lips. “At least it’s memorable.”

Jeongin groaned louder, the sound muffled by his hands. “I’m never picking a place again,” he muttered, peeking up at Minho with a pout.

Minho’s smile softened, and he reached over to ruffle Jeongin’s hair. “Relax, bunny. We’re having fun.”

“Speak for yourself,” Jeongin mumbled, though his lips twitched into a faint smile.

Jisung grinned, popping another sandwich into his mouth. “So, what’s the plan for tomorrow? Are you gonna surprise us with another ‘cute’ place?”

Jeongin finally lowered his hands, his embarrassment giving way to excitement as he perked up. “Actually, I was thinking we could go to Han river! There’s a beautiful spot for a picnic.”

“That sounds great,” Seungmin said, nodding in approval. “Do we need to bring anything?”

“Nope, I’ll take care of everything!” Jeongin said, his voice bubbling with enthusiasm.

Chan smiled, his gaze fond. “You’re really going all out for us, Innie. We appreciate it.”

Jeongin beamed, his earlier embarrassment almost forgotten. “Of course! I just want everyone to have a good time.”

As they chatted about the plans for the next day, a familiar pair of heels clicked against the tiled floor. The server returned, her sultry smile still in place as she leaned slightly toward the table. “Everything good here, boys?”

Jeongin stiffened, clutching his iced tea tightly. He tried not to look directly at her, but his reaction didn’t go unnoticed.

“Everything’s fine,” Minho said smoothly, his tone polite but firm.

The server’s gaze lingered on Minho, her smile growing coy. “Let me know if there’s anything else I can do for you,” she said, her voice dripping with charm.

Jeongin’s nose scrunched up, and he turned to Minho with a faint pout. “Why does she keep looking at you like that?”

Minho chuckled, reaching over to tap Jeongin’s nose lightly. “She probably thinks I’m single.”

Jeongin frowned, his scent spiking faintly with irritation. “Can’t she tell we’re mated?”

The table erupted into laughter at Jeongin’s indignant tone, and Chan clapped a hand on his shoulder. “Relax, Innie. She’s just doing her job.”

“Her job is to flirt?” Jeongin asked, his eyes wide with disbelief.

“Apparently,” Seungmin said dryly, biting into a cheese puff.

Minho smirked, his gaze softening as he looked at Jeongin. “Don’t worry, bunny. She doesn’t stand a chance.”

Jeongin huffed but leaned back in his seat, a faint blush dusting his cheeks. Despite the teasing and the awkwardness of the café, he couldn’t help but feel a little lighter as the warmth of his friends’ laughter filled the air.

“Alright,” Jisung said, raising his glass. “Here’s to Jeongin and his impeccable taste in cafés!”

Jeongin groaned, covering his face again as the others laughed and clinked their glasses together.

Even as he pouted, a small smile tugged at Jeongin’s lips. He might have made an accidental detour, but at the end of the day, it was worth it to see everyone having so much fun.

Chapter Text

After their eventful visit to the Pink Bunny Café , the group stepped back out into the bustling streets, the cool afternoon air brushing against their faces. Jeongin, still recovering from his embarrassment, walked a little ahead of the group, his hands stuffed into his coat pockets.

“Are you sulking, Innie?” Jisung teased from behind, his tone laced with amusement.

“I’m not sulking,” Jeongin replied, though the slight pout on his lips betrayed him.

Seungmin smirked, walking up beside him and slinging an arm around his shoulders. “Come on, you’ve got to admit it was funny. You brought us to a place none of us will ever forget.”

“Unfortunately,” Jeongin muttered, his cheeks heating up again.

Minho, who had been walking silently next to Jeongin, reached over to gently nudge his omega. “Let it go, bunny. It’s a good story. Besides, the rest of the trip is still under your control.”

Jeongin perked up slightly at Minho’s reassurance, glancing up at him with a small smile. “You’re just saying that because you had fun watching me panic.”

Minho’s lips curled into a smirk. “Maybe. But it’s true.”

As they wandered through the cobblestone streets, the group stumbled upon small shops and colorful stalls lining the sidewalks. The city had a charming, vibrant energy, with street musicians playing upbeat tunes and the scent of roasted chestnuts wafting through the air.

“Ooh, let’s check this out!” Jisung exclaimed, pointing to a quaint little trinket shop. Without waiting for a response, he dashed inside, dragging Seungmin along with him.

“Guess we’re shopping now,” Chan said, chuckling as he followed behind.

Jeongin hesitated, glancing back at Minho. “Do you mind?”

Minho shook his head, his expression soft. “Go ahead. I’ll be right behind you.”

Jeongin smiled and stepped into the shop, his excitement returning as he browsed the shelves filled with handmade jewelry, quirky keychains, and small glass figurines.

“Look at this!” Jisung called, holding up a tiny glass fox. “Isn’t it cute?”

“It’s adorable,” Jeongin agreed, running his fingers over a row of delicate ceramic mugs.

Seungmin, ever the practical one, picked up a small journal and flipped through its blank pages. “This is more my speed.”

Meanwhile, Minho lingered near the door, his arms crossed as he kept an eye on the group. Chan walked over to him, his hands tucked into his pockets.

“You’re good with him,” Chan said, his tone casual but genuine.

Minho glanced at him, one brow arching slightly. “What do you mean?”

Chan shrugged, nodding toward Jeongin, who was laughing at something Jisung said. “You let him be himself. It’s nice to see.”

Minho’s expression softened as he watched Jeongin. “He makes it easy. Besides, he deserves to be happy.”

Chan hummed in agreement, leaning against the doorframe. “Just don’t let him get away with too much. He’ll take advantage of that soft spot you have for him.”

Minho smirked, his gaze still on Jeongin. “Let him try.”

After spending some time in the shop, the group regrouped outside, their hands filled with small purchases. Jeongin had picked out a pair of matching keychains, one for himself and one for Minho, and shyly handed it to him.

“For you,” he said softly, avoiding Minho’s eyes.

Minho took the keychain, a tiny glass moon dangling from it, and smiled. “Thanks, bunny. I’ll use it.”

Jeongin beamed, his earlier embarrassment from the café incident finally fading away.

The sun had started its slow descent, casting a warm golden hue over the city. The streets were bustling with life as Jeongin led the group toward a small park he remembered seeing online. The space was quiet, lined with cherry blossom trees that, while not in full bloom, still added a serene beauty to the area.

“Let’s sit for a bit,” Jeongin suggested, pointing to a row of wooden benches near a fountain.

Jisung plopped down dramatically, stretching his legs out. “Finally! My feet were starting to protest.”

“You dragged us into five different shops, Jisung,” Seungmin reminded him dryly, sitting down next to him with a sigh.

“And we didn’t even buy anything,” Chan added with a laugh, leaning against the fountain’s edge.

Jeongin settled on the bench beside Minho, pulling out a small bag of roasted chestnuts he’d picked up from a street vendor earlier. He handed one to Minho, who accepted it with a quiet smile.

“Thanks,” Minho said, his voice softer than usual.

Jeongin hummed, his gaze flicking over to the fountain where water sparkled under the sunlight. “It’s nice, isn’t it? Just… peaceful.”

Minho looked at him, his heart warming at how content Jeongin seemed. “It is.”

As the group relaxed, Jisung started chatting about a new recipe he wanted to try, animatedly describing the steps as if he were on a cooking show. Seungmin occasionally chimed in with sarcastic comments, while Chan encouraged Jisung’s enthusiasm.

Jeongin turned to Minho, nudging him lightly. “You’re quiet. What’s on your mind?”

Minho shrugged, leaning back against the bench. “Just thinking.”

“About?” Jeongin pressed, his curiosity piqued.

Minho glanced at him, the corners of his mouth quirking up. “About how you dragged all of us into that café without knowing what it was.”

Jeongin groaned, covering his face with his hands. “You’re never letting me live that down, are you?”

“Never,” Minho replied, his tone teasing.

The banter was interrupted when Jisung suddenly stood up, clapping his hands together. “Let’s take some pictures! We can’t let this day go without proof we were here.”

Seungmin groaned. “You’re such a tourist.”

“And proud of it!” Jisung declared, pulling out his phone.

The group posed in front of the fountain, with Jisung insisting on taking at least five different angles. Minho, ever composed, stood at the back, while Jeongin smiled brightly beside him, his joy evident in the way his eyes crinkled.

“Alright, one more,” Jisung said, setting a timer on his phone and rushing back to join the group. As the camera clicked, Jisung threw an arm around Jeongin, pulling him into a playful side hug.

When the photos were done, they reviewed them together, laughing at the candid moments Jisung had captured.

“These are great,” Chan said, scrolling through the images. 

“I know,” Jisung said smugly, earning an eye roll from Seungmin.

The sun dipped lower, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Jeongin sighed contentedly, leaning into Minho’s side. “Today was perfect.”

Minho glanced down at him, his expression softening. “Yeah, it was.”

As the group began to make their way back through the city, the chatter and laughter continued, the bond between them growing stronger with every moment. Jeongin couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the people around him and for the alpha walking by his side, holding his hand like it was the most natural thing in the world.

As the night deepened, the house settled into a tranquil quiet. Jisung, Seungmin, and Chan had all retreated to their rooms, the sounds of doors closing and soft laughter fading into stillness. Jeongin lingered in the hallway, biting his lip as he stared at the closed door to Minho’s room. His heart thudded softly in his chest, the nervous energy in his stomach refusing to dissipate.

Gathering his courage, he shuffled toward the door and knocked lightly. “Minho?” he called, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Come in,” came Minho’s familiar, calm tone from inside.

Jeongin pushed the door open, slipping inside hesitantly. Minho was seated at the edge of his bed, his tie already discarded and the top few buttons of his shirt undone. He was in the middle of removing his watch but paused when he saw Jeongin standing there, looking uncharacteristically shy.

“What’s wrong, bunny?” Minho asked gently, his eyes softening as he set his watch on the bedside table.

Jeongin’s hands fidgeted with the hem of his sweater, and he kept his gaze trained on the floor. “I was wondering…” he started, his voice quiet and unsure, “if I could… sleep with you again tonight?”

Minho blinked, taken aback for only a moment before a warm smile curved his lips. The sight of Jeongin standing there, so hesitant and vulnerable, made his heart ache in the best way.

“Of course,” he replied softly, standing to guide Jeongin further into the room. “You don’t have to ask, you know. You’re always welcome here.”

Jeongin’s shoulders relaxed at the reassurance, and he followed Minho to the bed, slipping under the covers without hesitation. Minho climbed in beside him, his presence a steady comfort that instantly made Jeongin feel at ease.

As the room settled into a peaceful silence, Jeongin began to shift slightly, inching closer to Minho in small, deliberate movements. It was subtle at first, his shoulder brushing against Minho’s, then his knee grazing Minho’s leg.

Minho noticed immediately and couldn’t help but chuckle. “Do you want a cuddle, bunny?”

Jeongin froze, caught in the act, before nodding slightly, his cheeks tinting pink as he still avoided Minho’s gaze.

Minho laughed softly, his voice warm and teasing. “You’re too cute for your own good,” he murmured, wrapping an arm around Jeongin’s waist and pulling him close. He tucked Jeongin against his chest, his hand settling naturally on the small of Jeongin’s back.

Jeongin sighed in contentment, his face pressed into Minho’s shirt. The steady rhythm of Minho’s heartbeat beneath his ear was soothing, and he felt a sense of calm he hadn’t realized he’d been craving.

The silence between them stretched on, comfortable and heavy with unspoken emotions. Just as Jeongin was beginning to drift into the warmth of the moment, Minho broke the quiet, his voice hesitant.

“Do you…” he started, his tone unsure.

Jeongin tilted his head up to look at him, his brow furrowing slightly. “Do I what?”

Minho’s ears turned a faint shade of pink, and he avoided Jeongin’s gaze for a moment before finally meeting his eyes. The words tumbled out in a rush, as if he feared losing the courage to say them.

“Do you want to move in?”

Jeongin blinked, confusion flickering across his face. “Are we… not living together yet?”

Minho chuckled, the sound soft and endearing. He reached up to caress Jeongin’s cheek, his thumb brushing lightly over the smooth skin. “No, bunny. I mean, do you want to move in here… with me. In my room.”

The words hung in the air for a moment, and then realization dawned on Jeongin’s face. His eyes widened, and a brilliant smile spread across his lips. “Yes!” he exclaimed, his voice brimming with excitement and joy.

Without thinking, Jeongin began peppering Minho’s face with kisses, on his cheeks, his nose, his forehead, and even the corners of his lips. Each kiss was quick and enthusiastic, a clear expression of his happiness.

Minho couldn’t help but laugh, his arms tightening around Jeongin as if to anchor himself in the moment. “Okay, okay, I get it! You’re happy,” he teased, his voice warm with affection.

Jeongin pulled back just enough to look at him, his eyes sparkling with excitement. “I can’t believe you waited this long to ask me!”

Minho shook his head, his gaze soft as he brushed Jeongin’s hair out of his face. “I don’t know why I waited either,” he admitted quietly. 

Jeongin snuggled back into his arms, his smile still evident in the way his cheeks pressed against Minho’s chest. 

They stayed like that for what felt like hours, wrapped in each other’s warmth. As sleep began to pull them under, Minho pressed a gentle kiss to the top of Jeongin’s head, silently promising himself that he would never take moments like this for granted again.

Chapter Text

The soft buzz of Jeongin’s alarm woke him early the next morning. His eyes fluttered open, and he quickly fumbled to turn it off, careful not to disturb the sleeping alpha beside him. Minho’s arm was still draped loosely around Jeongin’s waist, his face peaceful in slumber. Jeongin couldn’t help the fond smile that spread across his lips as he gazed at him.

He reached out, his fingers brushing gently against Minho’s cheek. His skin was warm under Jeongin’s touch, and he couldn’t resist leaning down to press a soft kiss to his forehead. “Sleep well,” he whispered before carefully untangling himself from Minho’s hold and slipping out of bed.

Jeongin padded toward the bathroom, the faint chill of the morning air making him shiver slightly. He went through his usual routine quickly, washing up, brushing his teeth, and tidying his hair. By the time he emerged, dressed and refreshed, the room was still quiet. Minho remained fast asleep, his arm now sprawled across Jeongin’s side of the bed as if reaching for him even in his dreams.

With a small smile, Jeongin headed downstairs. The faint sound of chatter and movement greeted him as he neared the living room. Peeking around the corner, he saw his three friends already awake and gathered there, though it was clear they were still shaking off the remnants of sleep.

Seungmin was crouched near the coffee table, glaring at Soonie and Doongie, who were lounging smugly on the rug. “Shoo! Go somewhere else,” Seungmin muttered, waving his hands at them, but the cats didn’t budge. They stared at him unbothered, tails flicking lazily as if mocking his efforts.

“Why won’t they listen?!” Seungmin grumbled, clearly exasperated.

Meanwhile, Jisung sat cross-legged on the floor, cooing softly as he tried to catch the cats’ attention. “Soonie! Doongie! Look at meee,” he sang, wiggling his fingers in an attempt to entice them. The cats, however, completely ignored him, their gaze fixed elsewhere.

Chan was perched on the armchair, cradling a very sleepy Dori in his arms like a baby. He rubbed the cat’s head gently, a small smile on his face. When he noticed Jeongin standing in the doorway, he looked up and greeted him warmly. “Good morning, Innie.”

At Chan’s words, the other two turned toward Jeongin as well. Jisung immediately perked up, his expression brightening. “Innie! Finally, you’re awake. I’m starving!” he whined, dramatically clutching his stomach for effect.

Jeongin rolled his eyes but smiled fondly at his friend’s antics. “You’ll have to wait a bit longer,” he said. “We’re going on a picnic, remember? I’m about to start preparing everything.”

Jisung pouted but nodded reluctantly, plopping back onto the floor with a huff. “Fine, but make it quick. I’m wasting away here!”

Jeongin laughed softly and shook his head as he made his way into the kitchen. The soft sounds of their conversation and the occasional playful meows of the cats followed him, filling the house with a cozy warmth.

He began pulling out the ingredients and supplies he had set aside the day before, humming to himself as he worked. Sandwiches, fruit, snacks, it was all coming together in his mind, and he felt a rush of excitement for the day ahead. Though it was early, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment. His friends were here, Minho was upstairs, and they had an entire day of laughter and memories waiting for them.

Jeongin glanced toward the living room, catching a glimpse of his friends' antics, and smiled. It was going to be a good day.

Jeongin wiped his hands on a dish towel, surveying the picnic spread he had prepared. A variety of neatly packed sandwiches, fresh fruits, and snacks sat ready in colorful containers. He set the last bottle of iced tea into the cooler and closed it with a satisfied smile. Everything was perfect.

He walked back into the living room, where his friends were still lounging. “Alright, you guys, it’s time to get ready,” he announced, clapping his hands together to get their attention. “Go upstairs, change, and meet back down here in thirty minutes.”

Jisung groaned from his spot on the floor, stretching dramatically. “Why do we have to get ready now? Can’t we just go like this?”

Jeongin shot him a pointed look. “Unless you want to go out in your pajamas and let everyone know you barely survived last night, go change.”

Seungmin smirked, already standing and dusting himself off. “He’s right. You look like you’ve been dragged through a bush backward.”

Jisung huffed but reluctantly got up, grumbling under his breath about picky omegas and unnecessary effort. Chan chuckled from his armchair, gently setting Dori down before joining the others. “Alright, alright, we’ll go. Meet you downstairs, Innie.”

As they headed upstairs, Jeongin lingered for a moment, his gaze shifting toward Minho’s room. He had told the others to get ready, but he hadn’t woken Minho up yet. With a small smile tugging at his lips, he decided to take care of that first.

Jeongin quietly climbed the stairs and stopped in front of Minho’s door. He knocked softly before pushing it open. The room was dimly lit, the curtains drawn to block out most of the morning sun. Minho was still sprawled out on the bed, his dark hair tousled against the pillows.

Jeongin stepped closer, his heart softening at the sight. Minho looked so peaceful, the usual sharpness of his features softened by sleep. For a moment, Jeongin hesitated, not wanting to disturb him, but he knew they’d be running late if Minho didn’t get up soon.

He knelt by the bed and gently placed a hand on Minho’s shoulder, giving it a light shake. “Minho,” he called softly.

Minho stirred, a low hum escaping his lips as he shifted under the covers. His eyes fluttered open, still heavy with sleep, and he blinked up at Jeongin. “What time is it?” he murmured, his voice deep and gravelly from sleep.

Jeongin smiled, his fingers brushing against Minho’s shoulder. “Time to get up, lazy alpha. We’re going on a picnic, remember?”

Minho groaned softly, rubbing a hand over his face. “Picnic? Can’t we just stay in bed?”

Jeongin laughed lightly, shaking his head. “Nope. Everything’s ready, and I already told the others to get ready too. You don’t want to disappoint them, do you?”

Minho sighed dramatically but sat up, his hair sticking out in all directions. “Fine.”

Jeongin beamed at him, leaning in to press a quick kiss to Minho’s cheek. “Thank you. Now hurry up and get dressed. I’ll meet you downstairs.”

As Jeongin left the room, he couldn’t help the smile that lingered on his lips. Today was going to be another good day.

The drive to the Han River was lively, with the car full of chatter and laughter. Jeongin sat next to Minho in the front seat, glancing out the window with a wide smile as they neared their destination. His friends, piled into the back, were as chaotic as ever. Jisung was singing off-key to the music playing from the speakers, Seungmin kept throwing sarcastic remarks his way, and Chan was doing his best to mediate the nonsense while also chiming in with his own quips.

When they finally parked and stepped out of the car, the gentle breeze and the sight of the river sparkling under the midday sun greeted them. Jeongin adjusted the picnic bag on his shoulder, squinting as he looked around. “This is perfect,” he murmured, already scanning the open grass for a good spot.

“Alright, leader,” Jisung teased as he slung an arm over Jeongin’s shoulders. “Where’s this perfect spot you keep talking about?”

Jeongin rolled his eyes but didn’t shrug Jisung off. “Somewhere shady, with a nice view of the water. Let’s spread out a little and look.”

The group began wandering, staying within sight of one another as they checked out potential spots. Minho trailed close to Jeongin, the corner of his lips quirking up as he watched the omega dart from one area to the next with boundless energy.

“How about here?” Jeongin pointed to a grassy patch near a cluster of trees. It had a clear view of the river but was far enough from other groups to feel private.

Chan, who had been carrying the cooler, nodded approvingly. “Looks good to me. It’s shaded and close enough to the walking path if we want to explore later.”

Jisung dropped onto the grass dramatically, letting out an exaggerated sigh. “Finally! My legs are going to fall off.”

Seungmin gave him a deadpan look. “We’ve been walking for five minutes.”

“Exactly,” Jisung shot back, sprawling out as if he’d just finished a marathon.

Jeongin ignored their bickering, turning to Minho with bright eyes. “What do you think? Is this spot okay?”

Minho smiled, nodding. “It’s perfect, bunny.”

Jeongin’s face lit up at the approval, and he quickly set down the picnic bag. “Alright, let’s set up!”

They spread out the large picnic blanket Jeongin had packed, anchoring it with the cooler and some of the heavier bags. Chan and Seungmin unpacked the food containers, while Jisung arranged the drinks. Minho stayed close to Jeongin, subtly ensuring the omega didn’t overexert himself as he flitted around, organizing everything with precision.

Once everything was set up, they all stepped back to admire the scene. The blanket was perfectly arranged with a spread of food that looked straight out of a magazine. The river glimmered in the background, and the sound of the breeze rustling the trees added to the tranquil atmosphere.

“Good job, Innie,” Chan said, patting Jeongin on the back. “This looks amazing.”

Jeongin flushed with pride, his smile widening. “Thanks, hyung. I’m glad you like it.”

Minho glanced at Jeongin fondly before pulling him aside. “You’ve been running around since we got here.”

Jeongin pouted playfully but nodded. “Fine. I’ll sit down and rest once we start eating.”

Minho smirked, knowing that was the best compromise he was going to get. He ruffled Jeongin’s hair gently. 

As they all sat down on the blanket and began digging into the food, the laughter and teasing resumed, blending with the peaceful ambiance of the river. It was shaping up to be a day none of them would forget.

The picnic was in full swing, with everyone relaxing under the shade of the trees, enjoying the food Jeongin had lovingly prepared. Jisung had already stolen the spotlight with his dramatic storytelling, waving his hands wildly and earning groans from Seungmin every time he exaggerated an already ridiculous detail.

“And then,” Jisung continued, holding up a rice ball as if it were a prop, “I heroically saved the day by—”

“Tripping over your own feet and breaking the vase you were supposed to deliver,” Seungmin interrupted flatly, taking a sip of his drink.

Jisung gasped in mock offense, clutching his chest. “You weren’t even there!”

“No, but that’s the only way your stories ever end,” Seungmin deadpanned, earning a round of laughter from everyone except Jisung, who huffed and stuffed the rice ball into his mouth.

Jeongin laughed along, leaning comfortably against Minho’s side. He had subtly claimed the alpha as his personal pillow, resting his head on Minho’s shoulder as they sat together. Minho didn’t seem to mind; in fact, his arm had crept around Jeongin’s waist at some point, holding him close.

Chan glanced over at the two of them and smirked. “Aww looks like your alpha loves being your baby, Innie”

Minho rolled his eyes but didn’t let go of Jeongin. “Keep talking, and you won’t see the end of this day,” he said casually, earning a chuckle from Chan.

Jeongin, oblivious to the teasing, was busy peeling a mandarin. “Do you want one?” he asked Minho, holding up a segment.

Minho opened his mouth without a word, and Jeongin fed him the piece, smiling when Minho hummed in approval.

Jisung groaned, throwing himself onto the blanket dramatically. “Why are they so cute? It’s disgusting.”

Seungmin snorted. “You’re just jealous because no one wants to baby you.”

“Excuse me!” Jisung sat up, pointing an accusatory finger at Seungmin. “You’re supposed to baby me like that! You’re my mate!”

“Says who?” Seungmin replied with a smirk. 

Chan, watching the banter with an amused grin, decided to step in. “Alright, let’s all calm down before Jisung starts crying.”

“I do not cry,” Jisung protested, though the slight tremble in his voice made everyone laugh harder.

The afternoon continued like this, filled with laughter and lighthearted teasing. The cats, who Minho insisted on bringing in carriers, had been let out onto the grass and were lazily exploring their surroundings under the watchful eyes of their owners. Dori stuck close to Chan, while Soonie and Doongie alternated between trying to climb into Seungmin’s lap and wandering around the blanket.

As the sun began to lower in the sky, casting a warm golden glow over the river, Jeongin looked around at his friends and felt his heart swell with contentment. This was exactly what he’d wanted, a day of joy and connection, surrounded by the people he cared about most.

Minho noticed the soft expression on Jeongin’s face and leaned in close. “What are you thinking about?”

Jeongin turned to him with a smile. “Just... how lucky I am. I have you, my friends, and even the cats. It’s perfect.”

Minho’s chest tightened at the sincerity in Jeongin’s voice. He reached out and tucked a stray strand of hair behind Jeongin’s ear. “You're too good to me,” he murmured.

Jeongin’s cheeks flushed, and he quickly looked away, flustered by the unexpected sentiment. But Minho caught the shy smile tugging at the omega’s lips, and he couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of pride and affection.

The peaceful moment was interrupted by Jisung dramatically collapsing onto the blanket again. “I need dessert! Where’s dessert?”

Jeongin laughed, reaching into the picnic bag to pull out a container of cookies he’d made the night before. “Here, hyung. Don’t eat them all at once.”

Jisung snatched the container and began devouring the cookies, crumbs flying everywhere. “These are amazing, Innie!” he said, his mouth full.

“You’re a mess,” Seungmin muttered, brushing crumbs off the blanket.

Chan stretched, his arms reaching above his head as he yawned. “We should walk around the river before it gets too dark. Burn off some of this food.”

Everyone nodded in agreement, packing up the remnants of their picnic while chatting about their plans for the rest of the day. Jeongin stood, brushing off his jeans, and glanced at Minho with a radiant smile.

“Ready?”

Minho smirked, standing up and adjusting his jacket. “Always.”

As the group strolled along the Han River, the cool evening breeze began to settle in, carrying with it the scent of water and the faint aroma of food stalls nearby. The golden hues of sunset reflected off the rippling water, painting everything in warm shades of orange and pink.

Jeongin walked slightly ahead of the group, his hands stuffed into the pockets of his hoodie as he hummed softly to himself. His mood was light, and he couldn’t help the occasional skip in his step. Minho, keeping a steady pace behind him, watched the omega with a small, affectionate smile.

“Jeongin-ah, slow down! You’re going to leave us behind,” Jisung called out dramatically, waving his arms in the air like he was stranded.

Jeongin turned around, walking backward as he grinned. “Maybe you should walk faster, hyung.”

“Or maybe you’re just too excited,” Seungmin added with a smirk, his hands tucked into his coat pockets.

“Can you blame him?” Chan chimed in, walking at a leisurely pace beside Minho. “This is the first time in a while we’ve all hung out like this. It’s nice.”

Jeongin stopped walking and turned fully to face the group, his expression softening. “It really is,” he said earnestly, his voice quieter now.

For a moment, the group fell into a comfortable silence, the kind that only came with close friendships. They continued walking, the sound of their footsteps mingling with the distant laughter of children playing along the riverside.

When they reached a small pier overlooking the water, Jeongin leaned against the railing, staring out at the river. Minho joined him, standing close enough that their shoulders brushed.

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” Jeongin said softly, his gaze fixed on the shimmering water.

“Yeah,” Minho replied, though his eyes were on Jeongin.

Behind them, Jisung, Seungmin, and Chan were busy snapping photos of the view and each other. Jisung insisted on taking a group selfie, dragging Chan and Seungmin into the frame.

“Minho! Jeongin! Get over here!” Jisung called out, waving them over.

Jeongin laughed and pulled Minho toward the group. “Come on, hyung. We can’t leave them hanging.”

The five of them squeezed together, Jisung holding the phone out at arm’s length. “Okay, everyone, smile!”

As the camera clicked, capturing their wide grins and the golden backdrop of the river, Jeongin felt a surge of happiness. This moment, surrounded by his friends and Minho, was everything he could have hoped for.

After the photo session, they continued their walk, eventually coming across a small row of food stalls lit up with twinkling lights. The smell of grilled meat and freshly made tteokbokki wafted through the air, making Jisung perk up immediately.

“Food!” Jisung exclaimed, already making a beeline for the nearest stall.

“Didn’t we just eat?” Seungmin asked, shaking his head in disbelief as he followed.

“There’s always room for snacks,” Jisung retorted, grabbing a skewer of meat and taking a bite.

The group spent the next half hour sampling different street foods, sharing bites and joking around. Minho handed Jeongin a stick of fish cakes, his lips twitching into a soft smile when Jeongin’s face lit up in delight.

“Try this one” Jeongin said, holding up a piece of spicy rice cake for Minho to taste.

Minho leaned in and took a bite, nodding in approval. “Not bad.”

“Not bad? It’s amazing!” Jeongin pouted, earning a quiet laugh from Minho.

As the evening stretched on, the group found themselves back at the riverbank, sitting on a low stone wall and watching the city lights flicker to life. Jeongin leaned against Minho, his head resting on the alpha’s shoulder as he let out a content sigh.

“This has been the best day,” Jeongin murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

Minho turned his head slightly to look at him, his gaze soft. “I’m glad,” he said simply, wrapping an arm around Jeongin’s shoulders.

Chan, sitting a few feet away with Dori curled up on his lap, glanced over and smiled knowingly. “You two are disgustingly sweet, you know that?”

Jeongin stuck his tongue out at him, but his smile never faltered.

As the night deepened, the group eventually decided to head back home, their laughter and chatter filling the air as they made their way to the car. Jeongin, still leaning on Minho, let out a happy sigh, his heart full from the memories they’d created that day.

The drive back home was peaceful, the kind of quiet that wasn’t awkward but comforting, a shared silence between people who had spent the day basking in each other’s company. Jeongin leaned against Minho’s shoulder in the backseat, his eyes heavy with sleep but not quite ready to close them. Minho’s arm rested securely around Jeongin’s shoulders, fingers drawing lazy circles on his arm. It was grounding for Jeongin, a silent reassurance that Minho was there, as steady as always.

Chan drove with an ease that came from years of experience, the soft hum of the car blending with the occasional murmur of conversation between Jisung and Seungmin in the middle row. The headlights of passing cars created fleeting moments of light and shadow across their faces, lending a dreamlike quality to the ride.

When they finally pulled into the driveway, Jeongin stirred, his cheek still warm from where it had rested against Minho’s shoulder. He blinked groggily, glancing around as the car rolled to a stop. Minho chuckled softly beside him.

“We’re home, bunny,” Minho said, his voice low and gentle as if he didn’t want to break the quiet spell of the night.

Jeongin yawned, stretching his arms as Minho opened the door for him. The cool night air made him shiver slightly, and Minho instinctively wrapped an arm around him, pulling him close.

Chan popped open the trunk, and Jisung and Seungmin began gathering their bags. Jeongin stood by the door, his arms wrapped around himself, watching his friends with a bittersweet expression. The past three days had been filled with laughter, chaos, and a sense of familiarity he had missed. Now, as the moment of farewell approached, a hollow ache settled in his chest.

“Do you guys really have to leave?” Jeongin’s voice was quiet, almost hesitant, as he looked at the trio.

Seungmin turned to him, his usual smirk softening into something more tender. He stepped closer and ruffled Jeongin’s hair, earning a half-hearted swat in return. “Yeah, Innie. We’ve stayed longer than planned. We’ve got to get back before we overstay our welcome.”

Jisung, ever the dramatic one, threw his arms around Jeongin, nearly knocking him off balance. “Don’t miss me too much, okay?” he said, his voice muffled against Jeongin’s shoulder.

Jeongin let out a laugh, though it wavered at the edges. “I’ll try, but no promises.”

Chan approached Minho, extending a hand. There was a quiet understanding in his expression, a protective edge that hadn’t dulled even after all these years. “Thanks for letting us stay, Minho. And… thanks for taking care of him.”

Minho shook his hand firmly, his grip steady. “He’s important to me. You don’t have to thank me for that.”

Chan smiled faintly, nodding as if he’d expected no less.

Seungmin, meanwhile, glanced back at Jeongin and smirked. “Oh, and Minho?”

Minho raised a brow in question.

“Make sure he doesn’t drag you to any more… interesting cafes,” Seungmin teased, his words laced with humor.

Jeongin groaned loudly, burying his face in his hands as the memory of the Pink Bunny Café came rushing back. “You will never live that down, will you?”

“Nope,” Jisung chirped, grinning mischievously.

As the last of their belongings were loaded into the car, Jisung leaned out of the window and waved enthusiastically. “We’ll visit again soon, okay? Or maybe you guys can come to Busan next time!”

Jeongin’s face lit up at the idea, his earlier sadness momentarily forgotten. “Yes, definitely! Let me know, and we’ll plan it.”

The car’s engine roared to life, and Jeongin instinctively stepped closer to Minho, their shoulders brushing as they watched the car back out of the driveway. The trio shouted their final goodbyes, their voices carrying into the night as the car disappeared down the street.

Jeongin stood there for a moment, his hand still raised in a half-wave even after the taillights had vanished. A wistful sigh escaped his lips as he lowered his arm, his gaze lingering on the empty road.

“You okay?” Minho’s voice broke the silence, soft and steady.

Jeongin turned to him, his lips curving into a small, tired smile. “Yeah. I just… I miss them already. It was nice having them here. But…” He trailed off, looking down at his feet.

“But?” Minho prompted gently.

Jeongin glanced up at him, his smile widening just a fraction. “But I’m glad it’s just us again, too.”

Minho’s expression softened, and he reached out to tuck a stray strand of hair behind Jeongin’s ear. “Me too, bunny.”

Jeongin leaned into his touch for a brief moment before stepping back, his cheeks slightly pink. Minho chuckled, guiding him toward the door with a hand on the small of his back.

“Come on. Let’s get inside,” Minho said, his tone light but affectionate. “It’s been a long day.”

As they stepped into the warmth of their home, the quiet settled around them, a comforting contrast to the lively energy of the past few days. Jeongin glanced back at Minho as they walked toward the living room, his heart swelling with gratitude for the alpha who had welcomed not just him, but his closest friends, into their lives.

For the first time in a long while, Jeongin felt completely at ease, secure in the knowledge that no matter how far life took him, this was the place he could always return to. This was home.

Chapter Text

Minho sat at his desk in his sleek, minimalist office, his elbow propped on the polished surface as his fingers massaged his temple. The dull throb in his head was steadily growing, no doubt a result of his sleepless night, the whirlwind of events over the past few days, and the stress of this morning’s agenda. His schedule was packed, but the crown jewel of the day, the one he dreaded most, was a meeting with the head of a renowned Japanese corporation, Yamamoto Industries.

The deal Minho’s company had been negotiating for weeks was crucial, promising a foothold in the competitive international market. Yet, the tension in his chest refused to subside. He had reviewed every detail, practiced every possible scenario, but something still gnawed at him, an inexplicable unease that made his headache worse.

A soft knock on the door pulled him from his spiraling thoughts. Chaeryeong, his sharp and efficient assistant, stepped in with her tablet in hand. She was always professional, her demeanor polished, but even she looked slightly tense today.

“Mr. Lee,” she said, her tone clipped but polite, “it’s time. They’re already in the conference room.”

Minho exhaled through his nose, pushing back his chair and straightening his suit jacket. “Let’s get this over with,” he muttered under his breath, though loud enough for Chaeryeong to hear.

She offered him a faint, encouraging smile. “You’ve got this.”

Minho wasn’t so sure.

When they entered the conference room, Minho immediately felt the shift in atmosphere. The Japanese team was already seated, their leader, Mr. Yamamoto, exuding an air of quiet authority. His sharp, assessing gaze flicked to Minho as he entered, and for a split second, Minho felt as though he were being measured against some invisible standard, and falling short.

Minho extended his hand, his expression neutral but polite. “Mr. Yamamoto, it’s a pleasure to meet you in person. Thank you for making the trip.”

Mr. Yamamoto shook his hand firmly but said little, his expression unreadable. The other members of his team offered polite nods, but there was an air of formality that felt almost stifling.

As everyone settled into their seats, Chaeryeong began the presentation, walking the room through the proposed partnership details. Minho chimed in where necessary, his voice steady despite the throbbing pain in his head.

But something was off.

Every time Minho made a point, Mr. Yamamoto’s team exchanged subtle glances, their expressions unreadable but clearly communicating something among themselves. Mr. Yamamoto himself remained largely silent, his gaze fixed on Minho, occasionally darting to Chaeryeong or the presentation slides.

When it came time for questions, the real trouble began.

One of Mr. Yamamoto’s executives raised a hand, his tone polite but pointed. “Mr. Lee, your proposal is ambitious, but we have concerns about your company’s ability to meet the projected timelines. Could you elaborate on how you plan to mitigate potential delays?”

Minho nodded, having anticipated this question. He explained their strategies, additional resources, streamlined workflows, contingency plans, but as he spoke, he noticed the faintest furrow in Mr. Yamamoto’s brow.

When he finished, Mr. Yamamoto finally spoke, his tone calm but cutting. “Your confidence is admirable, Mr. Lee, but confidence does not ensure results. Our experience with similar partnerships suggests that such timelines are, frankly, unrealistic.”

Minho’s jaw tightened. “With all due respect, Mr. Yamamoto, we’ve conducted thorough analyses. Our team is fully capable of—”

Mr. Yamamoto raised a hand, cutting him off, not rudely, but with a finality that left no room for argument. “Capability is not the question, Mr. Lee. Reliability is.”

The room fell silent. Minho’s headache pounded harder, but he forced himself to remain composed.

The rest of the meeting followed a similar pattern. Every point Minho made was met with skepticism, every assurance with a veiled critique. By the end, the room was heavy with tension, and it was clear that the partnership was hanging by a thread.

As the meeting wrapped up, Mr. Yamamoto stood, his team following suit. He extended a hand to Minho, his expression unreadable.

“Thank you for your time, Mr. Lee,” he said. “We will review the proposal further and provide our decision in due course.”

Minho shook his hand, masking his frustration behind a polite smile. “We appreciate your consideration.”

When the Japanese team left the room, Minho sat back down, exhaling heavily. Chaeryeong, who had remained silent throughout the meeting, gave him a sympathetic look.

“That could have gone better,” she said gently.

Minho rubbed his temples, his jaw clenched. “That’s an understatement.”

He stayed in the conference room for a few minutes longer, staring at the empty chairs around the table. The partnership wasn’t completely off the table yet, but it was clear that earning Mr. Yamamoto’s trust would be an uphill battle. And for the first time in a long while, Minho felt the sting of doubt creeping into his mind.

Minho left the conference room with a heavy weight pressing on his chest, the headache still pounding relentlessly. The sterile, muted tones of the office hallway did little to improve his mood. He was used to tough negotiations,grueling, high-stakes meetings where every word counted, but today had left him feeling strangely unsettled. It wasn’t just the criticism or skepticism; it was the sharp, calculated way Mr. Yamamoto had cut through every argument, leaving no room for rebuttal.

Chaeryeong walked beside him, her tablet hugged to her chest. She glanced at him but didn’t say anything, knowing better than to push when Minho was like this.

Once they reached his office, she paused at the door. “I’ll give you a summary of the meeting notes by the end of the day,” she said, her tone professional but tinged with concern.

Minho nodded curtly, his hand on the door handle. “Thanks, Chaeryeong.”

He stepped inside and closed the door behind him, the familiar quiet of his office wrapping around him like a cocoon. For a moment, he just stood there, staring at the polished surface of his desk, the skyline of the city visible through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The view, usually a source of calm and pride, felt distant today.

Minho sank into his chair and leaned back, letting out a slow, controlled breath. His mind was racing, replaying the meeting, dissecting every word and gesture. He hated this feeling, like he wasn’t enough, like he hadn’t done enough.

He pulled out his phone, his fingers hovering over the screen. He thought about texting Jeongin, maybe asking how his day was going. Just the thought of Jeongin’s bright smile, the way his voice softened when he called Minho’s name, made the tension in his chest ease ever so slightly. But Minho hesitated. He didn’t want to dump his frustrations on Jeongin, not when the younger man had been so happy and full of energy lately.

Instead, he sighed and set the phone down, running a hand through his hair.

The soft chime of an incoming message pulled his attention back to the screen. It wasn’t Jeongin, it was Chaeryeong.

Chaeryeong

Just a heads-up, there’s a scheduling conflict for next week’s team review. Let me know how you’d like to handle it.

Minho closed his eyes briefly, pinching the bridge of his nose. One thing at a time, he reminded himself.

Later that evening, as the office grew quieter and the glow of the city lights filled his windows, Minho was still at his desk, poring over documents and revising the proposal for Yamamoto Industries. His focus was broken only when his phone buzzed again, this time with a message from Jeongin.

Jeongin

Hey, have you eaten yet?

Jeongin always worried about him, always seemed to know when Minho was pushing himself too hard.

Minho

Not yet. 

Still working.

The reply came almost immediately.

Jeongin

You better eat, or I’m coming to the office with food.

Minho shaking his head. He could practically hear Jeongin’s voice through the text, equal parts scolding and sweet.

Minho

I’ll eat soon. 

Jeongin

Good. 

Come home early, okay? 

I miss you.

Minho stared at the message for a long moment before replying.

Minho

I’ll be home soon.

As he set his phone down and closed his laptop, the headache that had been plaguing him all day seemed to fade just a little.

Minho sat in his office chair, his elbows propped on the desk, fingers tangled in his hair. The remnants of the meeting replayed in his mind like a broken record, each critical comment from Mr. Yamamoto hitting harder the second time around. He could still see the man’s sharp gaze, his lips curled in barely disguised disdain. Every word, every counterargument, had felt like a deliberate stab, a reminder that Minho wasn’t as invincible as he liked to believe.

The neatly organized documents on his desk mocked him. Hours of preparation had led to this, a meeting that had spiraled out of his control. Minho prided himself on being composed, on always staying one step ahead, but today had been a brutal exception. His usual confidence had been shaken, and the pressure to salvage the deal was suffocating.

The buzzing of his phone snapped him out of his spiraling thoughts. He glanced at the screen: another email notification, this time from the legal department, flagging yet another issue with the contract. His jaw tightened as he unlocked his phone, scrolling through the email with a growing sense of irritation. The tone of the message, curt, demanding, and laced with impatience, was just the cherry on top of an already infuriating day.

A sharp knock on the door made him flinch.

“Sir?” Chaeryeong’s voice called softly from the other side.

Minho clenched his teeth, inhaling deeply through his nose before forcing himself to answer. “Come in.”

Chaeryeong stepped inside, her expression cautious as she approached his desk. She placed a few updated files in front of him, her movements deliberate. “These are the revised projections for the Yamamoto proposal. I thought you’d want to review them before tomorrow.”

Minho nodded stiffly, barely glancing at the files. “Thanks. Anything else?”

She hesitated, her fingers gripping her tablet. “Sir, if I may…”

Minho looked up, his expression sharp enough to make her falter.

“I just wanted to say… It’s okay to take a break,” she said, her tone careful but firm. “You’ve been here since early this morning. Maybe stepping away for a bit would help.”

Minho’s lips twitched, but it wasn’t a smile. “A break doesn’t solve anything, Chaeryeong. Deals don’t fix themselves.”

She nodded, clearly sensing that pushing further would only irritate him more. “Understood. Let me know if you need anything else.” With that, she turned and left, closing the door quietly behind her.

The silence that followed felt oppressive. Minho leaned back in his chair, his head resting against the cool leather. He closed his eyes, exhaling slowly, but the tension in his chest refused to dissipate.

His phone buzzed again. Another email. Another problem. He grabbed it, his grip tight enough to turn his knuckles white, and resisted the urge to throw it across the room. Instead, he opened the message, scanning through it with a growing sense of frustration.

By the time he finished, his headache had evolved into a full-blown migraine. His vision blurred slightly as he set the phone down with more force than necessary.

He thought of Jeongin, of his soft voice, his warm smile, the way he always managed to soothe Minho’s frayed nerves without even trying. For a brief moment, Minho considered calling him, just to hear his voice. But then the doubts crept in.

What would he even say? That he was unraveling over a meeting gone wrong? That the great Lee Minho, always composed and in control, was struggling to keep it together?

No. Jeongin didn’t need to see this side of him.

Minho pushed himself to his feet, the motion sharp and purposeful. He grabbed the files Chaeryeong had left and started pacing, flipping through the pages with a scowl. If he couldn’t clear his mind, he’d drown himself in work instead.

But even as he tried to focus, the weight of his frustration pressed down on him, heavier than ever.

The soft glow of the living room lamp illuminated Jeongin’s face as he sat curled up on the couch, his phone resting on the cushion beside him. He had been waiting for hours, his legs tucked under him as his favorite blanket draped over his shoulders. The occasional buzz of his phone had kept him company, but his attention was entirely on the sound of the front door. Every time he thought he heard it, his heart would leap, only to sink again when it was nothing.

It wasn’t until well past midnight that the door finally creaked open. Minho stepped inside, his tie loosened and his expression dark with exhaustion and frustration. He kicked off his shoes with a little too much force, his entire demeanor radiating tension.

Jeongin stood up immediately, clutching the blanket around him. “Minho, you said you’d be home soon. It’s late now.” His voice was soft, but there was an edge of worry in it.

Minho barely glanced at him, his hand moving to rub the back of his neck. “Yeah, well, I’m home now, aren’t I?” he muttered, walking past Jeongin toward the kitchen.

Jeongin followed him, his brows furrowing. “I was worried. You didn’t answer my messages, and I waited—”

“Jeongin,” Minho cut him off, his tone sharper than he intended. He turned to face the omega, his eyes filled with irritation. “I don’t have the energy for this right now. Work was hell, and I just want to go to bed.”

Jeongin flinched slightly at the tone, but he stood his ground. “I get that you’re tired, Minho, but you could’ve at least—”

“I don’t need a lecture,” Minho snapped, running a hand through his hair in frustration. “Not right now, okay? Just drop it.”

Jeongin’s lips pressed into a thin line, the hurt evident in his eyes. He looked down at the floor, clutching the blanket tighter around himself. “I just… I waited for you,” he said quietly.

Minho sighed heavily, his frustration bubbling over. “Well, maybe don’t next time.” The words slipped out harsher than he meant, but he didn’t correct himself. He grabbed a glass of water from the counter, downing it in one go before walking toward the stairs.

Jeongin stood frozen for a moment, his chest tightening as the weight of Minho’s words settled over him. He took a shaky breath, his hands clenching the edges of the blanket as he turned to follow Minho upstairs.

When Jeongin entered their bedroom, Minho was already lying on the bed, his back turned to the door. Jeongin hesitated, his heart heavy, before quietly slipping into the bed beside him.

He lay on his side, facing Minho’s back, but the space between them felt wider than ever. Jeongin’s mind raced with thoughts, worries about what he might’ve done wrong, whether he had overstepped by waiting for Minho, whether Minho even wanted him there at all.

Minho shifted slightly, his shoulders tense and his breathing uneven. He could feel Jeongin’s presence behind him, the faint scent of his omega mingling with the cold frustration still clinging to him from the day. He wanted to turn around, to apologize, but the weight of his own emotions kept him frozen in place.

The room was filled with a heavy silence, neither of them speaking. Jeongin stared at Minho’s back, his chest aching, while Minho stared at the wall, the words he wanted to say caught in his throat.

It wasn’t until Jeongin closed his eyes, willing himself to sleep despite the hurt in his chest, that Minho finally whispered, “I’m sorry.”

But Jeongin didn’t hear it. And Minho wasn’t sure if he even wanted him to.