Archive of Our Own

Being an unmated omega in a university full of hormone-driven students sucks.

With his captivating looks and cold demeanor (read: timid personality), Kang Yeosang has attracted all sorts of unwanted attention to himself as soon as he entered college. Throughout his freshman year, he had to fend off numerous suitors - alphas, betas, and even other omegas - driven by lust to claim the beautiful omega. Some were kind enough to leave him alone, while others were too stubborn to accept his rejection. Needless to say, he’s had his fair share of polite and not-so-polite encounters on campus.

Luckily, his friends and fellow pack mates were always there to save him when the going got too rough for Yeosang to take care of himself. His pack alpha, Kim Hongjoong, and Luna, Park Seonghwa, always doted on him like they were his parents. But then again, if your pack had Wooyoung, San, Yunho, and Mingi under the same roof, the pack leaders have no choice but to act as parent-figures to the rambunctious 99-liners. Still, everyone knows that their parents’ favorite is none other than their baby, Jongho.

While the rest of the pack were already off to college, Jongho was the only one left in highschool. Hence, everyone was excited when their youngest finally graduated and presented as an alpha during his 18th birthday. 

To no surprise, being an alpha suited their maknae with his strong physique, outspoken personality, and innate protective trait. Yeosang would never admit it to himself, but he was the most excited when he heard the news of Jongho’s presentation.

Not that second genders should define anyone and honestly, Yeosang could care less about Jongho’s second gender. Rather, Yeosang couldn't help feeling a little lonely as his friends paired off with each other - Hongjoong & Seonghwa, San & Wooyoung, and Mingi & Yunho - leaving him as the only unmated wolf in the pack.

Now that Jongho has presented, the omega couldn’t help but feel closer to the newly presented alpha as he finally has someone to complain about the abundant PDAs within their pack. Prior to their presentations, Yeosang has always found the younger boy’s presence comforting and relaxing. Jongho was the kind of friend who could sense when Yeosang was down and would cheer him up by offering sweets or inviting him to watch a movie. Most importantly, Jongho never expected him to act any differently even after he presented as an omega. For Yeosang, that was the most considerate thing anyone has ever done for him.  

With all of them now attending college, Yeosang is beyond thrilled to begin his second year with Jongho as a constant companion for the rest of his college life.

~~~~~~~~

“Sangie, over here,” Wooyoung called, waving Yeosang over to their lunch table where the rest of their pack sat, except for Jongho.

Yeosang walked over to their table carrying his lunch tray, sitting down on the available seat between Wooyoung and Seonghwa. As soon as he sat down, Seonghwa tenderly carded his hands through Yeosang’s hair, a gesture reminiscent of a mother grooming her child.

“How’s your day, pup?” Seonghwa asked with a warm smile.

Yeosang replied with a smile of his own. “Aside from the usual stack of homeworks I have to do and occasional stares I get, I’d say it’s going great, Seonghwa-hyung.”

Concerned, Seonghwa asked, "No one tried to touch you, did they?" The question instantly brought the conversation in their table to a standstill as all eyes turned to Yeosang, awaiting his response.

Tension immediately descended upon the pack as the omega in question eyed the noticeable tense shoulders of the alphas and frowns of the omegas.

His pack has recently been on edge ever since Yeosang got assaulted by an older alpha who accidentally went into a rut and cornered him in the men’s room last month. Fortunately, Jongho was there to save him that day. While the alpha at fault got suspended – not to mention recovering from a series of broken limbs courtesy of their maknae –, his pack has become a tad bit protective over their unmated omega.

Placing a reassuring hand on Seonghwa's wrist, Yeosang gently guided his hand to his lap. "I'm fine, hyung. No one touched me, I promise," he reassured, giving his hand a comforting squeeze.

At his answer, each one visibly relaxed and returned to their lunches, happily chatting away. Seonghwa flashed him a wide smile before letting go of him. Behind Yeosang, he heard an audible sniff followed by a short snort from none other than his best friend, causing him to turn around.

“Well, with you walking around wearing your alpha’s scent, I doubt anyone would dare lay a finger on your pretty head,” Wooyoung said with a wide smirk, earning him chuckles from his fellow 99-liners. 

Yeosang furrowed his brows. “Jongho is not my alpha.”

“Riiiiight, and that’s not his hoodie you’re wearing right now,” Yunho interjected with a raised brow, eyeing the baggy black hoodie Yeosang had on.

Suddenly feeling conscious, Yeosang pulled the hoodie closer to his body. “I just borrowed his because all of my hoodies are in the laundry,” he defended, shooting Yunho a glare but held no real anger. 

“So, did he scent it before or after you wore his hoodie?” Wooyoung teased to which the other omega giggled. Their mates, San & Mingi, had to stifle their own chuckles with their hands.

Yeosang rolled his eyes at their usual playfulness. It was actually before, but Yeosang won’t tell them that. Instead, he sought their pack alpha’s help in dropping the matter as he shot him a pouty look that screamed ‘Help me’.

“Wooyoung, Yunho, stop tormenting Yeosang,” Hongjoong lightly scolded them. Grateful for the intervention, Yeosang smiled victoriously, earning him a supportive wink from their alpha.

The omegas grumbled in their seats but didn't pursue their teasing any further, seeking their respective mates' consolation. 

“But speaking of which, where’s Jongho? His class should have ended by now,” Hongjoong asked curiously.

“Oh, he said their coach wanted to talk to him so he’ll be running a bit late, hyung,” Yeosang answered, taking a bite of his lunch.

Hongjoong simply nodded at his answer and resumed eating. Casual banter and talks filled their conversations when out of the blue, a strong unfamiliar scent filled the air around them, drawing everyone's attention to a tall male wearing a varsity jersey approach their table, his eyes fixated on Yeosang. It only took them a beat to realize that the stranger was an alpha, judging by his scent and aura alone.

Immediately, Wooyoung and Seonghwa pressed themselves protectively on either side of Yeosang, shielding him from any potential threat. Even though they were omegas, they were more than capable of holding their own in a fight. The others followed suit as San and Hongjoong positioned themselves beside their mates, while Yunho and Mingi stayed at the forefront of their make-shift defense stance, effectively surrounding the unmated omega.

When the alpha stopped in front of their table, his pungent ginger scent assaulted Yeosang’s sensitive nose, wrinkling in disgust. 

He didn’t like it. Not one bit.

“Can we help you?” Mingi asked with his deep voice as he stood up, eyeing the alpha from head to toe. With Mingi’s tall frame, he easily towered over the guy.

“I would like to talk to Yeosang if you don’t mind,” the alpha answered boldly, his eyes never leaving Yeosang, which made him uncomfortable under his intense gaze. 

Sensing his unease, Wooyoung growled lowly at the strange alpha who dared ogle at their precious omega for too long in their presence. The alpha took his warning growl as an attack as he let out a louder growl, not liking that an omega dared challenge him. 

However, that was a big mistake. A very big mistake.

In a split second, San stood up from his seat as he reached out to grab the alpha by his collar, ready to beat him up for threatening his mate. But before San could reach him, the arrogant alpha was harshly pulled back by someone behind him, his frame now being lifted an inch off the ground.

A familiar, warm dark chocolate scent met Yeosang’s nose and his inner omega leapt from the arrival of none other than their baby alpha, Jongho.

“No one growls at my hyungs. No one,” Jongho snarled at the alpha whose scent now smelled of fear with how easily he was manhandled by the younger alpha.

The now-trembling alpha swallowed nervously as his eyes shifted between Jongho and his pack who were watching their youngest in awe.

“Apologize to my pack, or say goodbye to joining the play-offs,” Jongho threatened, his eyes now glowing red, letting his inner alpha out to show he was not playing.

Scared out of his mind, the alpha mumbled his apology with his head hung low before Jongho released him, making him run away like the devil was on his tail.

Once the intruder was gone, Yeosang could finally breathe as the others let out deep sighs before laughter broke out within their group.

“Jongie-yah!” Wooyoung shouted before throwing himself at the alpha, holding him in a bear hug. “Thank you for saving my honor. Not gonna lie though, for a second there I thought you were going to bite his head off,” Wooyoung joked as he rubbed his cheeks against Jongho who was trying his damndest to break free.

“Aish, Wooyoungie-hyung, get off,” Jongho complained as he wiggled himself out of the omega’s embrace, earning him chuckles from his hyungs.

“I’m proud of you, pup. I guess I raised you well,” Hongjoong proudly commented as he patted Jongho’s shoulder.

“The only one doing the raising here is Seonghwa-hyung,” Jongho remarked with his playful snarkiness.

“Why you ungrateful little–” 

More laughter filled their pack and Yeosang couldn’t help but smile at the warmth of his pack. When Yeosang let out a deep chuckle, Jongjo zeroed in on the sound as his eyes landed on the omega. 

Unlike the rude alpha’s stare, Yeosang has never once felt off whenever Jongho looks at him. It was actually quite the opposite. Yeosang preens under his affectionate gaze, his omega loving the attention it gets from the younger alpha.

Jongho approached Yeosang until he stood in front of him. “Are you okay, Yeosang-hyung? Did he bother you?” His eyes scanned him slowly for any signs of injury.

Yeosang shook his head, smiling at the alpha. “No, he didn’t bother me too much, Jongho-yah. Don’t worry,” he replied.

The younger alpha beamed at him. “That’s good to hear, hyung.” 

They stood there in comfortable silence, trapped in each other’s gazes as if their eyes held the moon and the stars. While they were lost in their own world, their pack observed them affectionately, waiting for the day when the last pair in their pack finally becomes mates.

Suddenly aware of their pack's eyes on them, Yeosang decided to break the enchanting moment and gently shook his head, leading Jongho back to their table. They sat beside each other, and the rest of the pack followed suit.

Yeosang pushed his food tray towards Jongho and urged him to eat. "Here, you look hungry," he offered kindly.

Jongho frowned, glancing at the almost untouched meal. "Hyung, you haven't eaten much either. I'll get my own food," he insisted, ready to stand up.

However, Yeosang didn't want Jongho to leave, especially when he longed for the comforting scent of the young alpha since they parted ways in the morning. Without thinking, Yeosang's arms reached out to hold onto Jongho's arm, keeping him seated.

“No, don’t go,” Yeosang blurted out. Quick, think of an excuse to make him stay without sounding desperate, Yeosang , he thought.

“The alpha's scent still lingers. Stay with me for a while.” And let me bask in your delicious smell more before lunch ends . He kept the last part to himself, hiding the real reason to himself as he didn't want Jongho to realize how much he craved his presence and scent.

Jongho’s frown deepened as his protective instinct kicked in. Without hesitation, he drew Yeosang closer and wrapped his arm around him, causing the omega's cheek to rest on his shoulder while releasing calming pheromones.

“Is this better, hyung?” Jongho asked worriedly, concern evident in his eyes as he assessed Yeosang's reaction.

Yeosang purred at their sudden intimacy, inhaling Jongho's delightful dark chocolate scent. Needing to be closer, he nuzzled his head further until it rested on Jongho's chest.

“Mmm, much better,” he contentedly, closing his eyes and enjoying the blend of his vanilla scent with Jongho's alpha aroma.

Satisfied with Yeosang's response, Jongho relaxed and gently stroked the omega's arm, enveloping him with more calming pheromones. When he looked up, he noticed his hyungs watching them with playful amusement.

Wooyoung playfully raised his hand in a mock whip-cracking gesture. Jongho glared at him playfully, causing the older male to snicker heartily.

Yeosang opened his eyes at the sound of laughter, realizing that all their pack members were watching them with obvious delight. Feeling self-conscious about their close position, he cleared his throat and disentangled himself from Jongho, though his inner omega whined at the loss of the alpha's warmth.

“Sorry. I got carried away, Jongie,” Yeosang admittedly bashfully.

Being the sweetheart that he is, Jongho simply smiled at his hyung. “Don’t sweat it, hyung. I'm glad I could help."

"Perhaps you should scent him more, Jongie, just to keep those foolish alphas at bay," Wooyoung suggested with a mischievous grin.

Yeosang glared at his friend, pinching him on the side. “Ya, no one asked for your opinion.”

Wooyoung stuck out his tongue, seeking protection behind San from Yeosang's playful pinching. Meanwhile, Jongho remained quiet, pondering over Wooyoung's idea.

“Would that help?” Jongho innocently inquired.

Yeosang paused the playful banter with Wooyoung and turned his attention to the younger alpha. “Would what help, Jongie?”

“Scenting you more. Would that really help keep the alphas away?” Jongho clarified.

At the question, a deep blush spread across Yeosang's pale cheeks, turning them a rosy shade. The mere thought of Jongho scenting him in more intimate ways made him feel unexpectedly warm. 

He knows that Jongho is a newly presented alpha, hence, may not think too much about the repercussions of his words. But for Yeosang, who had witnessed their pack mates scenting each other in various ways, his mind couldn't help but conjure up all sorts of scenes.

While borrowing clothes to exchange scents was common between Yeosang and Jongho, they had never personally scented each other. Yeosang's touch-starved mind began to imagine scenarios where he and Jongho were wrapped in each other's arms, Jongho trailing his nose along Yeosang's neck, leaving delicate kisses on his skin, marking him as his own. Yeosang even pictured Jongho licking his wrists to prolong the lingering scent.

Unaware of his sweetening scent, Yeosang's pheromones filled the air around them. His hand instinctively covered his scent gland in an attempt to conceal the sudden increase in sweetness.

Catching his sweetening scent, Seonghwa, caught on to how Jongho's seemingly innocent question had embarrassed the omega. He decided to intervene before Yeosang became overwhelmed.

"Yes, pup. If Yeosang carries your scent regularly, it might dissuade other alphas from approaching him, as they may think he's already claimed by you," Seonghwa explained.

Claimed by you .

Seonghwa’s words echoed in Yeosang's mind, and his omega danced with excitement at the mere thought of being claimed by Jongho. He had to mentally shake himself back to reality.

“-ung… Hyung?” asked Jongho.

“Hm? Sorry, did you say something?” Yeosang tried to compose himself. God, keep it together, he scolded himself.

Jongho chuckled at Yeosang's confused expression. "I asked if you'll be alright with me scenting you more starting today."

"Y-yeah, uh, definitely! Of course," the omega eagerly agreed, not hesitating for a moment. "I would like that very much," he whispered under his breath, just loud enough for Jongho to hear.

The alpha blushed furiously at his last statement and averted his eyes, suddenly feeling shy.

Seeing their blushing faces, Seonghwa wished for his two youngest pack members to acknowledge their feelings and confess to each other already. He decided they needed a gentle nudge in the right direction. So, he came up with another brilliant idea to make them realize they were meant for each other.

“While you’re at it, why don’t you scent him too, Sangie? That way, unmated omegas won’t swarm our baby Jongho,” Seonghwa  suggested, a knowing glint in his eyes.

The rest of the pack exchanged knowing looks, joining in to encourage the unmated duo.

“I think that’s a great idea, my Luna,” Hongjoong chimed in happily, with the others sharing the same sentiment.

Yeosang sensed that Jongho seemed uncomfortable with the attention, noticing the alpha's head hanging low and a slight spike in his scent. His omega whined at Jongho's reaction.

Is Jongho not fond of the idea of carrying my scent? Does he dislike the scent of vanilla? Is he interested in someone else's scent?

Negative thoughts began to spiral in Yeosang's mind. However, as much as he was saddened by the worries bombarding him, he decided to appease his pack as the older one between him and Jongho.

“Don’t pressure him, guys. If Jongho doesn’t want to carry my scent, then that’s alright,” Yeosang said with a tinge of sadness, the weight of his words heavy on his tongue.

Jongho hastily lifted his head, staring at Yeosang with wide eyes. "What? No, hyung, I'd want nothing more than to carry your scent," he blurted out, his eyes showing the intensity of his feelings.

Wait, what?

Confused, Yeosang tilted his head to the side. “Really? But then, why did you seem sad when Seonghwa-hyung suggested it?"

Jongho scratched the back of his head. "I was worried you might feel pressured to scent me, hyung, because... well, because I know you're saving that for your future mate. So, I thought you might not like it if I carried your scent," their youngest member explained, nervously glancing around.

Silly alpha , Yeosang thought to himself.

Our silly alpha, his inner omega added. And Yeosang couldn’t agree more.

He gently took Jongho's hands with his own, rubbing his thumbs in small circles over the alpha's skin. "Jongho-yah, it would be my absolute pleasure to scent you. So, would you do me the honor of carrying my scent?" Yeosang teased playfully, trying to keep the atmosphere light, even though his heart was racing.

Jongho blinked rapidly, caught off guard by Yeosang's words. After a long pause, Jongho lightly squeezed his hands. "Only if you carry mine," he replied, his cheeks growing redder by the second.

Yeosang couldn't resist cooing at how adorable the younger alpha looked. "Our maknae is so cute," he fussed, patting Jongho's mop of soft black hair.

"Ah, hyungggg," Jongho pouted, though he allowed Yeosang's affectionate gestures, making an exception for his favorite hyung despite his aversion to physical touch.

“Ack, you're going to make me gag with your cuteness. Can you guys just get it over with and--?"

Before Wooyoung could finish his sentence, San covered his mouth, silencing him.

“Leave them alone, love,” San said, his hand still over Wooyoung's mouth.

His mate rolled his eyes but continued to express his feelings, though now muffled. The rest of the pack laughed at the usual banter between Wooyoung and San.

Yeosang and Jongho exchanged glances once more before joining in the laughter. Both of them secretly appreciated their pack's suggestion to share their scents. This way, they could live under the illusion that they were each other's mates.

~~~~~~~~

Ever since that day, Yeosang made it a routine to carry Jongho's enticing chocolate scent wherever he went, while Jongho reciprocated by carrying Yeosang's sweet vanilla fragrance. 

They exchanged scents every morning, afternoon, and night, rubbing their wrists against each other's necks, where their scent glands were most potent, to ensure their scents lingered. While there were other methods for scenting like rubbing their necks together, Yeosang preferred this innocent method of scenting, lest he wishes to die from a heart attack every time they scent each other. 

Truth be told, his omega grew more impatient with each passing day, yearning to be claimed by the strong and sweet alpha. The desire to be Jongho's mate intensified, and the wait was becoming unbearable for both Yeosang and his omega. However, it doesn’t look like the alpha is going to be making any move soon, or ever for that matter.

Unbeknownst to Yeosang, Jongho doesn’t fare any better. Every time Yeosang brought his wrists to rub against his scent gland, Jongho fought to control his alpha's urge to bury his head in the omega's neck and bask in his intoxicating vanilla scent. The longing to mark Yeosang as his mate grew stronger, but Jongho believed he wasn't worthy of the breathtaking, perfect hyung.

Despite harboring feelings for Yeosang since before their second-gender presentations, Jongho never acted upon his crush. While it breaks his heart to admit it, he convinced himself that he didn't deserve someone as amazing as Yeosang, and he didn't want to jeopardize his hyung's chance to find the ideal alpha.  

So, he kept his heartache hidden, staying close to Yeosang while knowing they could never be truly together. Little did Jongho know that he couldn't have been more wrong about Yeosang's feelings as well.

On a sunny afternoon, Yeosang waited outside the university gym for Jongho to finish his daily workout session. Unexplainably, he felt an intense need to be close to the alpha as much as possible since this morning. Hence, his current predicament.

When the gym doors finally opened, a sweaty Jongho emerged, wearing a loose black tank top and gray sweatpants that showcased his impressive arms and physique.

“Yeosangie-hyung,” he called out, his lips turning up and his eyes taking the shape of two adorable crescents.

When Yeosang’s eyes landed on his form, Yeosang couldn't help but salivate at the sight. His brain short-circuited as he watched the very well-built alpha walk towards him with his goofy smile, his heart picking up pace.

God, could he get any hotter? I just wanna lick that bead of sweat about to roll down his chest–Wait, what?! Where did that come from?

Suppressing the distracting thoughts, Yeosang returned the smile as innocently as he could manage. “Hi, Jongho. All done?” he asked innocently despite the inner chaos happening inside his head.

Jongho nodded, hoisting his gym bag over his shoulder. "Yup. Sorry, hyung, did you wait long?"

The omega shook his head. “Nah, I just arrived a few minutes ago.” That was a total lie. He’s been standing by the doors for over an hour but he brushed it off with a casual lie, inexplicably drawn to the alpha's presence like a magnet, 

"Shall we go home?" Yeosang extended his hand, hoping Jongho would take it. Holding hands had become a recent addition to their interactions, both always looking forward to touching each other in the simplest ways.

"Oh, I sweated tons today, hyung. You might smell bad if I hold your hand," Jongho replied bashfully, keeping his fists to his sides.

Yeosang couldn’t stop his lips from pouting. He only wanted to feel his alpha close again. Sweat be damned. He won’t die from smelling bad anyway.

Despite Jongho's reluctance, Yeosang couldn't bear the idea of not holding the alpha's hand. Thus, he stepped closer and reached for Jongho’s hand, clasping it firmly. “I don’t care, Jongie. I just want to hold your hand. Can I?” he asked, his heart pounding with nervous anticipation.

Unable to resist Yeosang's pleading eyes and charm, Jongho gave in and agreed to hold hands with the omega. 

“How could I ever say no to you, hyung?”

Yeosang grinned gleefully. “What can I say? I’m just too irresistible. Now, let’s go. Although, when we get home, you need a shower, like ASAP,” he teased, pulling the alpha to his side.

“Aish, hyung,” the alpha whined, causing Yeosang to giggle.

Jongho blushed but didn't let go of Yeosang's hand as they walked back to their pack house, engaging in comfortable conversation.

When Yeosang pressed himself closer to the alpha, he suddenly caught a certain whiff of a faint citrusy smell, almost like strawberries. Curious, the omega looked around but couldn't spot any nearby omegas. 

How strange.  

The subtle strawberry scent lingered around them, the scent definitely near them. Abruptly, his eyes drifted down to where his hands were holding Jongho’s.

Surely the scent wouldn’t come from Jongho, right? 

However, curiosity got the best of him. Hoping that he was wrong, Yeosang lifted their interlocked hands to his nose, sniffing the alpha’s wrist. 

His heart sank when his nose detected a hint of strawberries mixed in with Jongho's usual woody and vanilla scents, causing him to stop Jongho in his tracks.

Jongho only ever has two scents – his and mine. Why does he smell different today? Why is it a sweet scent? And why does it stick to his scent gla–

Oh.

Oh!

It didn’t take a genius to realize what it was. Jongho smells of another omega – an unfamiliar omega whose scent is soiling their sacred shared scent. His omega grew restless, whining at his discovery.

Fear and concern washed over Yeosang as he pondered the implications of the matter at hand. Jongho had always kept his scents exclusive to their pack members, and the presence of another omega's scent on him was unsettling.

Did Jongho meet an omega he’s interested in? Who is it? Will he pursue her or him? What about me? What would that make of us? 

Yeosang’s internal struggle was interrupted when he felt a gentle tap on his shoulder.

“Hyung, are you alright? You suddenly froze,” Jongho asked, concern evident in his expression as he looked at Yeosang.

For the time being, he decided to push his concerns to the back of his mind and pretend that everything was normal. Maybe Jongho just accidentally brushed his wrist against someone, which resulted in their scents mixing together. 

Yeah, that could happen, right? he convinced himself.

“Yeah, sorry. Just got lost in my thoughts. Everything’s good, Jongie,” Yeosang assured him.

Jongho eyed him for a few seconds before nodding his head. “Alright, if you say so, hyung.”

As they continued walking, Yeosang forced himself to focus on other things, attempting to dismiss the issue as a minor concern. However, the unsettling feeling persisted, and he couldn't shake off his fear about what the future might hold for their relationship. 

Maybe he was overreacting. Everything was okay. 

~The next day~

Everything was NOT okay.

In fact, the situation was far from being okay. When Yeosang went to the gym again to pick Jongho up so they could walk home together, Yeosang immediately smelled the distinctive strawberry scent on Jongho. Only this time, it was stronger.

His omega reacted strongly to this unfamiliar aroma, growling in response. Yeosang was starting to develop a dislike for strawberries due to this ongoing issue, wondering if it was simply a recurring incident.

Despite his inner turmoil, Yeosang was determined not to appear possessive or overbearing towards Jongho. Just because they carry each other’s scents doesn’t make them official mates. They’re not even dating for Pete’s sake! Yeosang knew that Jongho was free to explore potential mates.

However, the mere thought made Yeosang feel extremely jealous and angry to the point that wants to rip some random stranger’s face off for taking Jongho away. Still, the older boy had to remind himself that Jongho is not his alpha, constantly telling himself that he had no right to claim Jongho as his own. Deep down, his inner omega seemed to reject the idea of Jongho being with anyone else.

Nevertheless, Yeosang did his best to remain composed. Instead, he tried to reassure himself that the lingering strawberry scent was merely another incident, and he could overcome it by reaffirming their shared scents during their scenting time tonight and tomorrow morning. 

He kept convincing himself that it was just another coincidence.

~The following day~

It was NOT a coincidence.

Despite Yeosang's efforts to scent Jongho more since the previous night, the unmistakable fragrance of strawberries engulfed Jongho as he picked up Yeosang from his night classes. Yeosang also couldn't help but notice how his own vanilla scent seemed to be losing its usual strength in the face of this overpowering citrusy aroma.

Strawberries now filled Yeosang with hatred. No, scratch that. He despises strawberries with something fierce as he and Jongho walk back to their house, his scent turning more sour every time he catches a whiff of the strawberry scent. 

Once can be brushed off as an accident. Twice may just be a coincidence. But thrice? Something is definitely not right.  These past few days, Yeosang had been feeling unusually sensitive, and the absence of Jongho by his side seemed unbearable. Now, with Jongho smelling like another omega, his heightened sensitivity only worsened.

Questions plagued his mind. Was his scent no longer enough for Jongho? Was the allure of vanilla fading away, replaced by a preference for citrusy aromas?

As his thoughts spiraled downwards, his scent began to reflect his sour emotions. His bitter demeanor did not go unnoticed by the young alpha who smelled his souring scent. 

“Hyung, is something wrong? Your scent is…” Jongho let his question trail off, not wanting to offend his hyung.

“What? Not enough for you anymore? Is that it? Is my scent boring now?” Yeosang harshly threw out, anger bubbling in his chest to mask his true feelings.

Jongho was taken aback by Yeosang's sudden outburst and the harsh tone in his voice. “Hyung, that’s not what I meant. I would never find your scent lacking or boring,” he assured him. Jongho could feel his alpha instincts urging him to make things right, even though he couldn't quite grasp the source of Yeosang's upset. All he knew was that his omega was hurting, and he wanted to fix it.

Concerned, he continued, "Your scent turned sour, and I just want to understand what I might have done to upset you."

Yeosang wanted to say that he was fine, but his emotions were all over the place. He couldn’t hide it any longer and decided to be honest. 

He crossed his arms, his voice adopting a cold tone, as he confronted Jongho, "Why do you smell like another omega for the past few days?"

Confused, Jongho blinked at him before replying, “I’m sorry, hyung, but I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

Yeosang rolled his eyes in annoyance. “Don’t play dumb with me, Choi Jongho. You reek of strawberries! I can barely smell any of my vanilla scent on you,” Yeosang accused, his eyes beginning to glow blue as his omega wanted to come out. Though his omega disagreed with the confrontational approach, they both felt hurt, fearing that Jongho was choosing another omega over them.

“What? I don’t smell like–” Jongho lifted his wrist to his nose to check his scent, his lips forming an ‘o’ shape as soon as he confirmed the presence of the strawberry scent.

His reaction only fueled Yeosang's suspicions, and he was running out of patience. The tension between them was mounting as they both struggled to make sense of the situation.

“Well?” Yeosang demanded, giving Jongho an intense glare.

“Hyung, please let me explain. It's a misunderstanding,” Jongho begged, his eyes desperate. Yeosang urged him to continue, and Jongho proceeded. “There's a new recruit on our football team. His name is Park Doyun. Our coach asked me to help him with our basic workout, so I've been spotting for him. He's an omega, like you guessed, but I promise there's nothing going on between us.”

Park Doyun. Yeosang hates him. The mention of Park Doyun ignited a flame of dislike in Yeosang, even though he didn't know the guy.

"If there's nothing between you, then why do you smell so strongly of him, almost like he's scenting you?" Yeosang couldn't suppress a growl that slipped out, surprising both him and Jongho. He rarely growled at his pack, especially not at Jongho.

"I don't know, hyung. Maybe he accidentally brushes his wrists against mine during our workouts. But I would never let him scent me. You have to believe me," Jongho pleaded.

While it was hard for him to stay mad at the sullen alpha, Yeosang has been feeling particularly sensitive so without thinking carefully of his next words, he responded curtly, “Whatever. Let’s just go home.” 

“Hyung…” Jongho reached out to comfort him, but Yeosang avoided his touch, crossing his arms defensively. He couldn't bear to see the hurt expression on Jongho's face.

"Don't, Jongho. Just drop it. Either stay quiet until we get home, or go back to that Doyun guy you reek of," Yeosang snapped, walking away without looking back. He regretted his words immediately, but his pride prevented him from apologizing.

Feeling awful for what he said, Yeosang took a quick glance behind him, only to see Jongho standing there, motionless like a statue with his head hung low. The omega in Yeosang wanted to run to him and apologize for being mean, but the man in him was too hurt and prideful to admit his mistake. Thus, he did what every coward would. He turned around and walked away, leaving the alpha alone with his thoughts. 

That night, regret and sadness weighed heavily on Yeosang as he cried himself to sleep. His heart felt heavy for snapping at Jongho and leaving without apologizing. He was angry that Jongho didn't chase after him to reassure him. Most of all, he was terrified of losing Jongho to another omega, a fear that consumed him entirely and may well be the worst thing that Yeosang could imagine.

~~~~~~~~

For the past two days, Yeosang felt absolutely shitty. Ever since the incident, Jongho has been distancing himself from the omega, only greeting him whenever they see each other, but eventually excusing himself. The obvious rejection shatters Yeosang’s heart, but he knows he has no one to blame but himself.

He hadn't mustered the courage to apologize for his hurtful words and actions, fearing that Jongho might hate him now.  After all, Jongho doesn’t scent him anymore, which only makes Yeosang believe that the young alpha no longer wants to be around him.

It was Hongjoong or Seonghwa who scent him now for protection, but the alpha’s woody smell and the omega’s cinnamon smell failed to soothe Yeosang's omega. Rather, it makes him feel more angsty at the lack of comforting dark chocolate he was used to, causing him to smell like spicy vanilla due to anxiety.

One day, as Yeosang sat with his best friend Wooyoung on the couch in their living room, the topic inevitably turned to the strained situation between him and Jongho.

"Seriously, Yeosang, I don't know what happened between you and Jongho, but for everyone's sake, can't you just admit you were just dumb and apologize to him?" Wooyoung scolded him with concern.

Yeosang felt defensive, even though he knew he was at fault. "What makes you think I'm the one to blame here?" he retorted.

His best friend rolled his eyes dramatically, setting aside his magazine to face Yeosang directly. "Because that boy worships the very ground you walk on, and I know without a doubt that he would never do anything to intentionally hurt you. He would always light up when you’re around. But now, every time he sees you, he looks like a wounded puppy who got rejected by his owner that desperately wants you back, but he's afraid of upsetting you even more. It's painful to watch, Yeosang," Wooyoung explained with passionate gestures.

Yeosang scoffed at the accusation, finding it hard to believe that Wooyoung could draw such conclusions from Jongho's behavior. “You gathered all of that from the mere fact that he runs away when he sees me? Maybe he hates me for being so cruel to him and decided he's better off without me. Perhaps he doesn't want anything to do with me anymore, and that's why he looks hurt. He's just sparing me the pain of telling me he's done with me. What if–”

His emotions overwhelmed him, and Yeosang didn't even notice the tears streaming down his cheeks until Wooyoung pulled him into a tight embrace, comforting him.

"Oh, Sangie, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to make you cry," Wooyoung said with concern, rubbing circles on Yeosang's back to help soothe him. "Just let it out."

Unable to hold back anymore, Yeosang cried harder, loud sobs wracking his chest as he clutched the back of Wooyoung's shirt, seeking solace in his friend's arms.

“I-I’m s-so s-s-scared, Y-Youngie,” he stuttered between sobs.

“Shhhh, it’s okay. What are you scared of, Sangie?”

"I'm s-scared that J-Jongie h-hates m-me n-now," he admitted, more tears falling down his face.

"Oh, honey, Jongho could never hate you. That boy will kill himself before he hates you," Wooyoung reassured him, though he was unaware of the details of what had transpired between Yeosang and Jongho. 

His words didn't fully ease Yeosang's fears, and he shook his head in response, prompting Wooyoung to continue soothing him, emitting calming pheromones to help him relax.

At one point, Wooyoung called for San who he ordered to fetch Yeosang a glass of water as he was surely going to be dehydrated from all the tears. When San came back from the kitchen, the alpha sat behind Yeosang and offered gentle pats on his back in support.

After what felt like an eternity, Yeosang's crying eventually subsided, but the weight in his heart remained. He took the water from San and thanked him kindly. San smiled at him but with sadness in his eyes as he and Wooyoung gazed at the red-rimmed eyes of their friend.

"Can you tell us what happened, Sangie?" Wooyoung asked softly, his arms still embracing Yeosang while San moved closer, showing his concern and support.

Yeosang sniffled and wiped away his tears before recounting the entire story to Wooyoung and San, explaining how Jongho began to smell like strawberries because of a new omega recruit in the football team, and how he had snapped at Jongho for allowing another scent to mix with theirs, even though Jongho was not his alpha.

"Wait, do you mean Doyun?" San interjected, causing Yeosang to fix him with a bitter gaze as the other omega's name brought back painful feelings.

"Yeah, do you know him?" Yeosang replied, his tone slightly defensive and resentful.

“Yeah, Sannie, do you know him?” Wooyoung asked, raising an eyebrow in displeasure at the idea that his mate knew the omega responsible for making Yeosang cry.

San held up his hands in defeat. "Whoa, calm down, you two. I only know him because I saw him hanging around the gym with Jongho."

"Elaborate," demanded Wooyoung, his eyes narrowing.

"Doyun is a freshman that recently got recruited to our team. When our captain was absent on the first day, Coach asked Jongho to train with Doyun since he was the most suitable choice. However, when the captain returned the next day, Coach wanted Doyun to train with him instead, but Doyun refused, insisting on continuing to train with Jongho," San explained, pausing briefly as he noticed Yeosang emitting a low growl.

Yeosang hadn't realized how tightly he had balled up his fists, his fingernails digging into his skin, until Wooyoung placed a calming hand on them.

"Sorry, Sannie. Please continue," Yeosang said through gritted teeth, trying to subdue the anger simmering inside him.

“Being the kind person that he is, Jongho agreed to train with Doyun until he felt comfortable doing it alone. That's why Doyun ended up pairing with Jongho. However, when Doyun wanted to get closer to Jongho, he asked him why he smelled like vanilla, and Jongho told him he has an omega—you,” San said, nodding towards Yeosang, who blushed at the acknowledgement. “But that didn't seem to deter Doyun. I've witnessed him deliberately approaching Jongho and 'accidentally' brushing his wrists against Jongho's body multiple times. Jongho was clearly annoyed each time, but he tried to tolerate it to avoid causing tension in the team.”

Yeosang was torn between feeling angry at the disrespect towards Jongho's personal space and feeling delighted at the thought that Jongho referred to him as his omega.

"If you saw it happen so many times, why didn't you intervene to stop it?" Wooyoung questioned, his curiosity aligning with Yeosang's.

“I did! Trust me, I did,” San exclaimed loudly, startling the two omegas. “But every time I brought it up, Doyun would act innocent and tell the Coach that I was bothering him or something. I even suggested that Jongho talk to the Coach about it, but Jongho insisted that I leave it alone, saying it was nothing."

It wasn’t nothing! his omega shouted in his head. 

Maybe it meant nothing to Jongho, but to Yeosang, it wasn't–not by a long shot. When San finished talking, Yeosang confessed his feelings of being overly sensitive and possibly overreacting, acknowledging that he may have blown things out of proportion. Surprisingly, Wooyoung understood his reaction completely.

“No, you’re not wrong, Sangie. While I do admit that you could’ve handled the situation better, I can't blame you for reacting that way, considering the circumstances," Wooyoung admitted.

Puzzled, Yeosang looked directly into Wooyoung's eyes and asked, “What do you mean ‘circumstances’?”

Wooyoung looked at him like he grew an extra head. “Really? Do I have to spell it out for you?”

Yeosang stared blankly, urging Wooyoung to elaborate.

Taking a deep breath, Wooyoung placed his hands on Yeosang's shoulders and explained, "Kang Yeosang, your reaction mirrored that of a mated omega whose alpha smells like another omega. Feeling jealous and protective is entirely natural, especially since your omega already sees Jongho as his alpha, even without a mating bond. Considering how much you both care for each other and have been exchanging scents, it's no surprise that your omega felt threatened." San nodded in agreement, reinforcing Wooyoung's analysis.

“But even if that’s true, my feelings are one-sided so in the end, I’m hopeless. Like San said, being scented by an omega means nothing to him,” Yeosang interjected sadly, earning him a frustrated growl from his best friend.

Frustrated, Wooyoung growled, "Sangie, you're being ridiculous. I love you, but you really are an idiot."

“Hey!”

“No, really. Think about it. Why on earth do you think Jongho likes scenting you? Why do you think he loves it when you return the gesture? Why does he look at you like you're the center of his universe?"

Wooyoung's questions left Yeosang's head spinning, as if he had been caught in a whirlwind. “Well, he's only doing that because, besides me, he's the only unmated one in our pack. I can't imagine him looking at me like that, especially since he sees me as nothing more than his hyung.” Yeosang blushed at the mere thought of Jongho looking at him with such affection.

“You dummy. He absolutely looks at you like that, but you're too blind to see it. You've convinced yourself that Jongho will never return your feelings, but the truth is, he's been head over heels for you since high school. He doesn't even let Hongjoong-hyung or Seonghwa-hyung scent him, except when they have to, yet he willingly does it with you. So wake up, Sangie-yah. Our maknae likes you, really likes you.”

As Yeosang grappled with the idea of Jongho reciprocating his feelings, he replayed every precious moment they shared— the tender cuddles, meaningful conversations, and comfortable silences throughout the years.

He only came up with one conclusion–Jongho likes him back! The epiphany struck him like a bolt of lightning, and Yeosang couldn't help but bury his head in his hands, overwhelmed with shame. 

“I’m such an idiot!” Yeosang groaned.

Wooyoung chuckled. “Yes, you are, my dear Sangie.”

However, one thing remained unclear to Yeosang. "But then, why did I react so poorly when Jongho started smelling like another omega? I mean, I get the possessive part, but I usually have better control over my emotions."

“Hmmm, I actually thought about that. Isn't your heat approaching?" Wooyoung remarked.

It was as if a bucket of ice-cold water had been poured over Yeosang's head. His heat was indeed just around the corner. That explained his heightened sensitivity and emotional turmoil.

“Judging from your expression, I must be right,” stated Wooyoung matter-of-factly.

"Youngie, what should I do? I acted like a complete idiot even though I know Jongho would never betray me like that, all because of my jealous preheat brain." Yeosang was in a state of panic. He wanted to mend his relationship with Jongho, confess his feelings, and ask him to be his mate. He yearned to exchange scents once again, to have Jongho's scent on him and his own on Jongho. Most of all, he simply wanted to be with Jongho.

Like an answer to his prayer, their front door opened, slowly revealing the man that Yeosang desperately wanted to be with for days - nay, years. The sight of the alpha made the omega inside him jump with excitement.

Alpha’s back! His omega exclaimed with excitement.

The moment their eyes met, Jongho dropped his bag in the foyer and rushed towards Yeosang, kneeling in front of him.

“Hyung, what’s wrong? Are you hurt? Did someone hurt you?” he asked in rapid succession, his concern evident as he scanned the teary-eyed omega.

Before Yeosang could reply, the god-forsaken strawberry scent assaulted his senses, his nose wrinkling in absolute disgust. The citrusy scent clung to Jongho like white on rice. Anger bubbled at the pit of his stomach, causing his eyes to flicker blue as his inner omega fought to break free.

He’s ours , his omega growled deep in his soul. 

At that moment, something in Yeosang just snapped.

Without saying a word, he grabbed Jongho's wrist and dragged him to the bathroom closest to his room.

“Hyung…” Jongho called out, but Yeosang ignored his confusion, his mind working on one-track.

Must remove the scent, must remove the scent , the voice in his head chanted.

Locking the door behind them, the omega pulled Jongho under the shower head before turning the taps on, immediately drenching both of them.

“Hyung, stop! Please, tell me what’s wrong,” Jongho begged, completely confused with Yeosang’s actions, but filled with concern as the omega’s distressed pheromones blanketed them like a thick fog.

Yeosang was frantic. He needed to remove the scent from his alpha. His hands gripped the ends of Jongho's shirt, trying to tug it up.

"Take it off," Yeosang pleaded, tears drenching his cheeks as he couldn't bear the thought of another omega's scent on Jongho.

Confused and concerned, Jongho attempted to pry Yeosang's hands away, wanting to understand what was happening. However, he was met with a growling omega whose eyes glowed bright blue.

Realizing that Yeosang's omega was taking control, Jongho complied and removed his wet shirt, exposing his broad chest. Without hesitation, Yeosang lunged at him, wrapping his arms around the alpha and nuzzling into his neck.

Jongho froze in place, not understanding why Yeosang was rubbing his cheeks across his scent gland, but his alpha was satisfied by the close contact. Hence, he let Yeosang to do as he pleased.

Yeosang tried desperately to overpower the strawberry scent with his own vanilla scent, rubbing his cheeks vigorously against Jongho's scent gland. However, it wasn't enough. The other omega's scent was just too potent, and Yeosang let out a distressed whine at his failure to mask it.

Immediately sensing Yeosang's distress, Jongho embraced him tightly, eliciting a contented purr from the omega.

“Hyung, can you please tell me what’s wrong?” he implored, needing to know so he could help his clearly upset hyung.

"Make it go away. Please," Yeosang whimpered against Jongho's neck, running his nose along the column to leave more of his scent on the alpha.

Feeling slightly overwhelmed by Yeosang's intense scenting, Jongho tried to focus on the conversation.

“Make what go away, hyung?” He asked a beat later, finally regaining enough sense before his head lulled back to give the omega more access to his neck, to which Yeosang responded with barely concealed enthusiasm.

“Strawberries,” Yeosang growled with frustration.

“Strawberries? You mean Doyun’s–?”

Before Jongho could finish his sentence, Yeosang snarled and nipped at his neck, eliciting a yelp from the surprised alpha.

"Don't say his name. I never want to hear his name on your lips ever again," Yeosang warned, his eyes burning blue as his omega was basically shaking in its paws to come out, ready to hunt down the omega that dared to stake claim on what is his. "I don't want anyone's scent on you but mine." 

Yeosang was staking his claim right here, right now. Jongho was left speechless, trying to process Yeosang's words and the sudden intensity of his confession. His hands tightened around Yeosang's waist, pulling him even closer until their wet chests were pressed together.

In that moment, Jongho comprehended what had upset his omega. Leaning close to Yeosang's ear, he whispered, "I don't want anyone else's scent but yours, hyung," his lips gently grazing the omega's earlobe. “Please scent me to your heart’s content.”

Yeosang responded with a delighted hum, wasting no time as he trailed a long, teasing lick across Jongho's scent gland, causing the alpha’s knees to buckle from the pleasure. 

Mine. Mine. Mine.

Driven by possessiveness, Yeosang showered Jongho's neck with affectionate licks and love bites, marking him as his own. Jongho couldn't help but moan at every touch and mark Yeosang left, a sound that pleased the omega immensely.

Under the cascading shower, their bodies pressed tightly together, enveloped by the overwhelming aroma of vanilla and filled with their shared moans.

When Yeosang was finally content that only his scent lingered, his eyes returned to their original black color, his omega calm and sated, at least for now. He pulled back to gaze at Jongho, who looked back at him with anticipation, awaiting his words.

Turning off the shower tap, Yeosang watched droplets of water trickle down Jongho's face and hair. He then reached up, cupping Jongho's cheeks, and the alpha responded by nuzzling his cheek against Yeosang's palm, his eyes closing in bliss from the intimate touch.

Yeosang felt a sense of relief and happiness as Jongho didn't shy away from his affectionate gesture.

"Jongho-yah," Yeosang began, and Jongho hummed in response, his eyes now open and fixed on Yeosang. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry for what I did. I know I acted like a total brat, and you have every right to be mad at me. I was angry and jealous because I could smell another omega on you."

Jongho opened his mouth, ready to explain but Yeosang hushed him with a finger to his lips.

“Let me finish first.”

Nodding, Jongho wrapped his arms around Yeosang's waist appreciatively, a gesture of comfort and support.

"I know that you would never do something to hurt me. I really do. But I was just so caught up in my jealousy and fear that someone was going to take you away from me. My preheat hormones only made it worse. I should have talked to you sooner, but I was scared you might hate me for acting like I owned you. I just like you so much that I couldn't fathom you with another omega, so I panicked and snapped at you. I'm sorry."

Jongho blinked, seemingly taken aback. "Wait, hyung, back up. Did I hear you right? You... you like me?"

Yeosang blushed from his intense gaze. “I literally poured my heart out here, and that's the only thing you heard?” he kidded, squirming from embarrassment.

"That's the only thing I care about at this moment, hyung. So, tell me I heard you right, otherwise, I might misunderstand. Do you like me too?" Jongho's hope was evident, his alpha on edge, waiting for Yeosang's response.

Yeosang nodded, his face flushing with intensity. "I do. I like you, Jongho. And I don't just mean as friends. I really really like you, Choi Jongho."

As soon as the words left his mouth, Jongho crushed him in his arms in a tight bear hug, ecstasy coursing through his entire body as his dark chocolate smell intensified. 

“I like you too, Sangie-hyung. I’ve liked you since we were in high school. I just never had the courage to tell you because, well, because you’re you and I’m just me,” Jongho confessed.

Yeosang playfully pinched him on the waist, eliciting laughter from the alpha. "Ya, I should be the one saying that. I mean, look at you. You're handsome, sexy, and so talented – not to mention sweet, caring, and so strong."

Jongho chuckled at the description. "You flatter me too much, hyung. But have you seen yourself in the mirror? Anyone would go crazy over someone like you."

"Oh? Then, do I make you crazy, Jongie-yah?" Yeosang teased, wiggling his brows playfully.

Jongho looked into Yeosang's eyes with sincerity. "I'm crazy for you, hyung. There isn't a day that goes by without my heart screaming your name."

Blood rushed to Yeosang’s cheeks at the declaration of Jongho’s feelings. "Does that mean you want to make me yours?" He wrapped his arms around Jongho's neck, pulling him closer.

Jongho tightened his grip around Yeosang's waist. "Only if you want to be mine."

A wide grin spread across Yeosang’s face. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. Just to make it clear, I’m not one to share,” he admitted shamelessly.

One of Jongho’s hand went to Yeosang’s nape, holding it lightly but firmly. “Neither do I,” he growled, causing Yeosang to shudder as he found the alpha's possessive display hell of attractive.

"Good," Yeosang replied, nestling his head once again in Jongho's neck, savoring the comforting scent of chocolate that enveloped the alpha.

A deep rumble emanated from Jongho's chest. "As much as I want to stay like this longer, hyung, can we first dry off and go to your room? I can feel you shivering, and I'm also starting to feel cold from our impromptu shower," he chuckled.

Suddenly, Yeosang realized what they had just done in the shower. Alarmingly, Yeosang pulled back, his eyes casted on the side as he was too embarrassed to look at the alpha again. 

"Oh my god, I'm so sorry! Yeah, let's do that first," Yeosang quickly said, untangling himself from Jongho and reaching for towels from the top cabinet. He handed one to Jongho, who couldn't stop giggling.

“Why are you laughing?” Yeosang asked, his back to Jongho as his cheeks felt hot from the burst of embarrassment coursing through him.

"You're so cute when you're shy, hyung," Jongho replied, drying himself off with the towel.

Yeosang whined but kept his back turned. "I'll go change in your room first. Come out when you're ready," he said hastily, closing the door behind him. He couldn't help, but hear Jongho's laughter echoing in the bathroom.

When Jongho eventually emerged from the bathroom wearing a plain white shirt, he quickly headed to his room. The first thing he saw was Yeosang sitting on his bed, knees drawn to his chest, and wearing one of Jongho's hoodies. Jongho couldn't have been happier.

Yearning for Jongho to be nearer, the older boy patted the space beside him, inviting the younger boy to come and sit. Jongho complied with some hesitation, easing himself down beside Yeosang.

"Um, may I hug you, Jongie?" Yeosang asked shyly, his hands fidgeting nervously on his lap.

Jongho opened his arms wide, facing him. "You never have to ask, hyung," he replied warmly with a smile.

Yeosang immediately went to his arms, enveloping Jongho with his arms and legs until he was basically sitting on his lap. He nuzzled his face into the crook of Jongho's neck and shoulder, his nose close to the alpha's scent gland.

“I missed you so much,” Yeosang confessed quietly.

Jongho wrapped his arms around the omega. "I missed you too, sweetheart."

"Sweetheart?" Yeosang smirked playfully, pulling back slightly to look at Jongho with amusement. His omega preened at the new nickname.

“Sorry, do you not like it?” Jongho asked worriedly.

"On the contrary, I like it. A lot. My omega likes it too," Yeosang reassured him.

Jongho smiled at him. “Okay, then I’ll call you my sweetheart from now on.”

Yeosang couldn't help but let out a soft laugh at Jongho's adorableness. He trailed his fingers across Jongho's face, admiring his exquisite handsomeness. His fingers paused on Jongho's plump lips, finding them absolutely irresistible.

“Can I kiss you, Jongho-yah?” Yeosang's gaze fixated on Jongho's lips.

Instead of answering, Jongho surged forward, capturing Yeosang's lips in a tender yet firm kiss. Yeosang gasped in surprise but quickly reciprocated, his fingers tangling in Jongho's soft hair while Jongho placed a steady hand on the back of his neck.

Both of them were tentative at first, exploring each other's lips, adjusting their angles for a better fit. But as moments passed, Yeosang's desire intensified, a heat building in his abdomen, urging him to draw closer to the alpha.

He wanted more. He needed more. 

Feeling a surge of urgency, Yeosang pulled back ever-so slightly and whispered against Jongho's lips, "Open up for me, Alpha," before pressing their lips together again.

Jongho groaned at Yeosang's sudden boldness but complied with his request nonetheless. As soon as Jongho's lips parted, Yeosang's tongue darted inside, licking across his mouth. The alpha let out a deep, guttural moan as their tongues danced together.

Jongho tasted like the sweetest treat to Yeosang as he hungrily drank his chocolate goodness, inhaling the alpha's scent. The scents mingled together, the vanilla and dark chocolate creating the sweetest, most exquisite delicacy known to mankind. 

Their lips chased each other in a breathless game. Their hands roamed each other's bodies in sweet abandon, seeking closeness and connection. Yeosang was getting drunk from the pleasure swarming his body, his mind becoming hazy.

Much to Yeosang’s dislike, Jongho pulled back with a soft smack. The omega whined at their separation, trying to bring his lips back to him. But, when Jongho leaned down to scrape his teeth against Yeosang's neck, peppering it with tender kisses, Yeosang lost the fight.

A sensual moan left Yeosang’s lips as he tilted his head to the side, granting Jongho greater access to his neck. The alpha growled at the submissive display, wasting no time lavishing the omega's neck with more affectionate licks and kisses, dropping tiny marks one after another.

“Please, Alpha,” Yeosang begged desperately, his fingers gripping Jongho's hair.

“Please what, sweetheart?” Jongho murmured hoarsely against his neck, arousal evident in his voice, sending shivers down Yeosang's spine.

“More, please. Give me more, Jongie,” the older boy sighed softly, his eyes closed in ecstasy.

"Anything for you," Jongho murmured against his skin before gently latching onto Yeosang's scent gland, sucking vigorously with a loud suction.

Yeosang screams from pleasure, clutching Jongho’s shoulders as he holds on for dear life. His scent exploded from his body, the vanilla fragrance reaching a new level of sweetness that was almost suffocating.

His preheat body ached for more as slick started to leak, coating his underwear with his arousal. Seeking relief, Yeosang rubbed his hardening member against the obvious, thick bulge in Jongho's pants, eliciting groans of desire from both males.

Yeosang was breathing heavily as he sought more friction, grinding harder on Jongho. The alpha matched his pace as he bucked up, deeply satisfying the omega’s craving.

With a satisfied pop, Jongho released his hold on Yeosang's neck, his alpha content with the mark he had left. He gently traced his thumb across the love bite, causing Yeosang to whimper wantonly.

“I like my mark on you,” Jongho remarked gruffly, his lust-heavy eyes staring at the bruised area.

"Mmmm, I love it. Why don't you give me more, Alpha?" Yeosang purred, nuzzling Jongho's hand against his neck.

Jongho chuckled lowly, the sound making Yeosang squirm on his lap. “As much as I would love that, I think we should stop here, sweetheart.” Jongho's statement jolted Yeosang out of his lust-induced haze. 

Yeosang lifted his head from Jongho’s hand abruptly. "Wait, what? But I-I thought you liked me too. Why d-do you want to stop?" he stammered, his mind reeling from Jongho's unexpected words. Tears welled up in his eyes, his eyes glistening in the darkness of the room at the thought of the alpha leaving him, his scent turning bitter from fear as his omega cried out within him.

“Hey, hey, shhh, sweetheart, I’m sorry. Please don’t cry,” the younger boy panicked as he pulled Yeosang in his arms, wrapping him in a tight embrace. Yeosang clung to him, burying his face in Jongho's neck for the nth time, erasing any space between them.

"But y-you s-s-said we should s-stop. A-are you l-leaving me?" Yeosang sobbed, his emotions running wild.

"Shhh, hyung, I'm not leaving you. Not in the way you think," Jongho reassured, gently rubbing circles on Yeosang's back.

Yeosang gripped his neck tighter. "Then, why did you say that?"

“Because I can smell the slick on you, and you said you were entering your preheat.” 

“Yeah, and?” Yeosang still didn't understand why Jongho wanted to stop, especially when his body was yearning for more.

“And I don’t think I’ll be strong enough to stop if we go any further,” explained the alpha.

“What if I don’t want you to stop?” Yeosang whispered against his neck, his voice an octave lower.

The alpha in Jongho wanted nothing more than to do exactly that, but he knew that Yeosang was being heavily influenced by his omega at the moment. They literally just confessed their feelings for each other a few minutes ago, yet here they are on the brink of spending Yeosang’s heat with him.

He knew that the responsible thing to do was to halt their actions before Yeosang succumbed to his preheat instincts, driven solely by the desire to be claimed and satisfied.

Jongho gently pulled Yeosang away from his neck, locking eyes with him directly. "That's your preheat talking, hyung. We should discuss this when we're both rational. But for now, we'll have to wait, okay?”

Yeosang pouted, having no valid argument to counter Jongho's point. Though he disliked admitting it, he knew Jongho was right. They needed to be in the right frame of mind before indulging in their heats and ruts together.

"Besides," Jongho continued with a chuckle, "I think Hongjoong-hyung and Seonghwa-hyung will have my head if I claim you here and now without discussing it with them first."

The older boy giggled at his joke, fully aware that their parents would give them a stern scolding if they didn’t talk to them first.

Speaking of the devil, a loud and familiar voice suddenly reverberated through the house. "I'm home! And I bought chicken!" Hongjoong's announcement echoed through every room.

Upon hearing the word ‘chicken’, Yeosang’s stomach grumbled, suddenly hungry for some crispy chicken. His arms whipped to cover his belly in a poor attempt to hide his rumbling tummy.

Jongho couldn't help but chuckle and coo at Yeosang's adorable embarrassment, as his face flushed bright red.

“Let’s get you some food first,” Jongho suggested.

"Fine. But the moment we're done eating, let's resume what we were doing, okay?" Yeosang pouted.

The alpha smirked playfully. "Is that a threat, sweetheart?"

Yeosang pecked his lips, leaving Jongho momentarily speechless with the sweet gesture. "It's a promise," he said, before getting up and dashing downstairs, with Jongho following closely behind, both laughing all the way.

The moment they entered the dining room hand in hand, their packmates immediately jumped up from their seats, showering them with hugs and congratulations for finally getting together.

“God fucking finally!” Wooyoung hollered, earning him chuckles from the others.

“Language!” Seonghwa scolded with a slight frown.

Wooyoung shrugged nonchalantly before turning to Yeosang and Jongho. "I'm really happy for you both. Seriously, though, I was this close to forcing you both in the same room to talk it out, but good thing you pulled your heads out of your—" Before he could finish his sentence, San covered his mouth and gave the couple an apologetic look.

“What Wooyoung was trying to say was congratulations, you two. We’re so glad everything worked out. But then again, we never really had a doubt,” San said, flashing them a dimpled smile.

“Thanks, Sannie. I guess we both just needed a push,” Yeosang said bashfully, resulting in Jongho pulling him close to his side as Yeosang tried to hide his flushed face.

"My pups are so cute!" Seonghwa squealed. "Now, come here and eat before the food gets cold."

Basking under the love and support of their pack, Yeosang and Jongho's hearts finally felt at ease, knowing that their future together was finally beginning.