Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Jisung turned off the television, boiling with anger. He felt that if he continued to listen to what he had believed to be his inspiration in the kitchen criticize him so aggressively and without grounds, he would explode. Lee Know, or just Lee Minho, the renowned alpha lupus chef who owned numerous restaurants with his name across the country, spared no words in expressing how much he disliked Jisung, a hatred that many would say was a huge childishness on Lee's part, prejudice because Jisung was an omega, or perhaps just the consequence of Han's untimely actions. 

It all started at a conference for young culinary talents. Various up-and-coming chefs, newcomers, and veterans from all backgrounds gathered in a hotel banquet hall with a buffet fit for the British royal family. Each chef contributed a dish to the buffet, and their names were displayed in front so that everyone could taste each other's food while discussing culinary matters and other not-so-interesting topics. 

The star of the night was none other than Han Jisung, a 23-year-old young omega who, at such a young age, was gaining popularity among young people due to his youthful and rebellious appearance (and among alphas for his sweet scent). He had dark brown hair, defined muscles, tattoos covering one side of his waist and a few others scattered across his body, plenty of earrings, a more casual style, and a unique face that drew attention with his deer-like eyes and an overall attractiveness that even got him endorsements from brands not focused on the culinary world. He was a real discovery, growing organically on social media, especially on short video platforms, accumulating thousands of followers. 

His beauty and class attracted more attention than his actual culinary skills, putting a heavy spotlight on him. Everyone wanted to know if he was just an omega heartthrob trying to be a top-notch chef. 

A stark contrast existed between his attractive appearance and his introverted personality. He was so shy that he couldn't maintain eye contact with people for more than five seconds. In his videos, he showcased a confident persona, but when the camera turned off, his eyes filled with stars, and he spoke no more than necessary. Speaking in public was challenging for him, and he would break into a cold sweat and forget what he should say; crowds made him nervous. However, he still took the stage to express his gratitude. 

On that particular night, he failed in his speech and forgot to mention one specific chef: Lee Know. He was so nervous that Lee's name slipped his mind, especially the person he admired the most. To make matters worse, he didn't pay his respects to Minho when he approached to greet him. Jisung was so nervous; it was his first social event with the best in the industry, and he froze when facing Minho. He only smiled and waved. 

He returned home that day wanting to bury his head in his pillow and never get up again. He hoped that Minho had understood that Jisung was new to this environment, but, to his unhappiness, it was quite the opposite. 

It had been a year since the incident, and Minho didn't spare any criticism. In every podcast, interview, or any opportunity he had, he was there to tear Jisung apart. They hadn't met since that fateful day, and Han just continued his life, pretending that nothing had happened. But it reached a point where he couldn't ignore it anymore. In the first few months, he understood, but after that, he felt that Minho was simply mocking him, doing everything to get under his skin. 

Jisung was not naive, so he countered the criticism with some Twitter posts, comments on Reddit forums, and videos on his social media doing exactly what Minho had criticized him for that week, showing that he knew the chef's critiques and was willing to prove that he was more than just a pretty face. 

"This is going too far!" Seo Changbin, a beta, Jisung's best friend, and one of those who helped him with social media, almost his manager, exclaimed when he saw Jisung pick up the wooden board and the large knife. "They've been at it for a year. Why don't you explain everything to him?" 

"For that idiot to have more ammunition against me? No chance," Jisung said, taking the large piece of meat that was ready to be cut. 

"How old are you guys? Ten?" Changbin mocked. "Your restaurant's grand opening is in two months. If he keeps bashing you like this, there won't be anyone at the opening. You know how people are; they prefer to believe an alpha spreading lies rather than an omega telling the truth!" 

Despite Jisung's social media fame, constant criticism from someone who had been in the industry longer could really hurt him. It was his first restaurant, and it took almost a year to get everything from the kitchen to the exterior just the way he wanted it. He had spent a lot of money, much of it from his sponsorships, and he had a prime location in Gangnam-gu. If the grand opening were a failure, he would close the doors before completing a month. 

"I'll find a way," he said. He didn't know how. "Now, help me record my next content." 

A few days later, his new video, cutting Hanwoo beef, was online, gaining millions of views along with comments and likes, showing that yes, he knew how to cut meat. Of course, his arms were the talk of the town; the fact that his shirt had short sleeves revealed his muscles contracting with each movement, attracting attention and comments that were not about the food. 

He knew how to use his condition to his advantage without exposing himself too much. 

Practically the next day, there were criticisms from Chef Lee in response to his video, breaking a record time. He had never received such fast criticism from him before. Some malicious comments claimed that Jisung had refused to sleep with the alpha lupus chef, which is why he criticized him so much, alleging that his pride was wounded, and he was trying to get back at the omega in a dirty way. This made Minho roll his eyes because he wouldn't sleep with Jisung even if they paid him. 

"Sue them," Minho handed the phone to Kim Seungmin, an alpha, a lawyer, an manager who managed the chef's image. 

"What?! You've never been bothered by hate comments before!" 

"Now I am bothered. Sue them," he ordered, practically. 

Seungmin specifically read the comments about the lupo's wounded ego, laughing. 

"What's so funny?" 

"I thought you'd ask," Seungmin said, suppressing his laughter. "Are you bothered because they said Jisung refused to sleep with you?" 

"Seriously, you only saw those comments? There are others talking about other things too!" 

"'Chef Lee is like fine wine! He gets more handsome with age,' 'Does he never age? Is he some kind of vampire?' 'I'd sell my house just for a chance with Chef Lee,' 'Thirty years of pure deliciousness,' 'Chef Minhonie, please be the father of my children!'" Seungmin read each comment with a different tone, clearly mocking. "Hyung, your ego is more inflated than K-pop idols!" 

"But it's a blatant lie! I never wanted to sleep with that arrogant omega, and they keep saying he refused me!" Perhaps he was wounded in an imaginary situation that never happened. His ears were turning red from stress. "Who would refuse me? Look at me! I never wanted him!" 

Seungmin laughed even more. 

"Don't you think this rivalry between you should have ended by now?" 

"Why?" 

"I don't know, you've been at it for a year. Jisung has never spoken ill of you, just responded to your jabs." 

"Not directly." 

Seungmin raised an eyebrow. 

"Okay, maybe I went a bit too far," he crossed his arms and looked away. 

"At least this rivalry between you has brought something interesting," Seungmin said, settling on the couch. "You know Yang Jeongin's show?" Minho nodded, without looking at him. "He wants you and Jisung to enter a cooking competition, a showdown to see who's the better chef." 

"Of course, it's me, no discussion." 

"I wouldn't be so sure," that made Minho turn to Seungmin in disbelief. "Come on, the kid is good!" 

"He's a newcomer! I've been a chef for over ten years; there's no way he'll match me!" He pointed to himself, and Seungmin found it amusing how Minho sometimes acted like a spoiled child. 

"If you're so sure, accept the invitation." 

"No, I'm not going to compete with a kid." 

"He already accepted." 

That was quite a challenge. Jisung had accepted the proposal before the veteran, which was like declaring war. 

He sighed and rolled his eyes. Minho knew that Seungmin was persuading him; the lawyer had known him since the beginning of his career, even when Seungmin was just an intern. 

"Okay, but only because I'm going to prove that I'm much better!" He got up abruptly from the couch and went to the bathroom to take a good shower. 

[...]

Getting Jisung to accept the program's proposal was not difficult. He enjoyed challenges and being able to prove to his harshest critic that he was indeed worthy of having "Chef" before his name was something he had wanted for a long time. 

The program began to be recorded the following week after the contracts were signed. The two rivals were being prepared in the dressing room, not that much makeup was necessary, but it was television, and they needed it. They only truly met in the studio before starting the recording, each in an improvised kitchen with a clear view of each other, perfect for seeing how they were doing. 

The alpha lupus's gaze on the other side of the studio was filled with so much hatred that Jisung could feel his skin burning, as if they were laser eyes. 

Yang Jeongin, the host, thanked the two for accepting the invitation and mentioned that they would start recording in a few minutes. He could feel the tension in the air even before they were told what they would be doing that day. 

The program was simple, a culinary battle between the two chefs in which they would prepare the same dish and be evaluated by three judges with experience in the field, including the host. If one finished first, the other was forced to stop, regardless of the state of their dish. However, it wasn't just about speed; if the taste wasn't good, they would receive a low score. The winner was the one with the most delicious dish. 

The recording began, and they were already in position when Jeongin started the classic introduction: 

"We're back for another week to find out who will be the Kitchen King this week on Chef's Kingdom!" Jeongin said enthusiastically, contrasting with the tense atmosphere behind him. "Today, we have two adversaries known for their rivalry on social media! The veteran with ten years of experience in the culinary field and who captivates hearts with his beauty: Lee Know," the mentioned chef bowed and briefly introduced himself. "And one of the most talked-about individuals on the internet for his daring looks and jaw-dropping dishes, the rising chef: Han Jisung," he also made a brief bow and greeted the viewers. "I can already see the hashtags blowing up on social media! Who will win this week? Today, we have a classic Korean dish, Japchae! Our participants will have to prove that, in addition to being masters in the kitchen, they need to be fast!" Jeongin was very friendly on screen; he could captivate anyone's attention. "Let the games begin!" 

With the signal given, the two chefs hurried to grab the ingredients offered on the main counter and began preparing their dishes. 

The two chefs started preparing Japchae with a determination that made the rivalry even more intense. Jisung, despite being nervous, was doing his best. He began chopping vegetables with precision, the rhythmic sound of the knife against the cutting board matching the beats of his heart. 

On the other hand, Minho was unwavering. He moved with grace and experience, cutting the ingredients efficiently, demonstrating years of practice. The pots and pans were hot, and the delicious aroma began to fill the studio, making the judges eager. 

The judges, observing closely, discussed among themselves as the chefs worked hard. Jisung, at times, cast furtive glances in Minho's direction in the other kitchen, his tension rising as he realized the alpha was a step ahead in the race to finish first. 

The tension in the studio reached its peak when Jisung and Minho almost finished their dishes simultaneously. Minho, convinced he had the advantage in time, was about to ring the small bell that signaled his dish was ready. However, Jisung was faster and rang the bell before him. 

Looking at Jisung, he could see him with a satisfied look and a sly smile, clearly mocking the alpha lupus. Minho found it immensely disrespectful, and if he didn't like Han before, he now despised him. 

"Wow!" Jeongin approached, looking at the dishes placed on the center table. "Today, the competition is fierce." 

The Japchaes were truly magnificent, each with its unique beauty. It was not an easy task to choose which dish was the most beautiful. 

With their attention focused on them, a portion of the Japchae prepared by Jisung and Minho was carefully placed on three small plates and served to the judges. The first to be served was Minho's dish, exuding confidence and self-assuredness. 

Minho watched with a secure look, believing that his experience and culinary skills had guaranteed victory. He knew his Japchae was a culinary masterpiece, full of flavor and tradition. 

The judges, with keen eyes, picked up their forks and tasted Minho's dish. The taste and presentation were remarkable, and a respectful silence spread throughout the studio as they savored the creation of the alpha lupus chef. 

The three judges discussed among themselves about the dish, sharing their thoughts and explaining why they found it delicious and wonderful. 

Finally, it was time to try Jisung's Japchae, and all eyes turned to the second dish. The omega had put all his confidence and skill into creating the dish, knowing that this moment was crucial to prove his worth in the kitchen: defeating the one who had belittled him so much. 

The judges picked up their forks once again and tasted Jisung's Japchae, and silence fell again, but now accompanied by widened eyes from those who tried it. Jisung bit his lower lip, thinking that he might have made a seasoning mistake or overcooked the vegetables, those reactions didn't seem good. Meanwhile, Minho sported a slight smile, convinced of his victory. 

However, the words of the blonde omega judge interrupted the suspense: 

“This is…” 

The alpha judge didn't wait and completed the sentence: 

“Perfect! I've never had Japchae so delicious!” 

“It's delicious!“ Jeongin said as soon as he finished swallowing. 

The judges' words left Jisung dumbfounded. He couldn't believe the effusive praise he was receiving. The omega had exceeded all expectations, and his dish had won over the judges' palates. 

Minho immediately wiped away his smile, all the confidence he had shown moments before crumbling in a matter of seconds. He took a fork and, with a serious expression, took a bite of Jisung's Japchae. He wanted to personally verify if the young omega's dish was as good as the judges had claimed. His face displayed a mixture of surprise and recognition as the flavor unfolded on his palate. It was undeniable that Jisung's Japchae was truly exceptional. 

The victory was evident, Jeongin placed the crown on Jisung's head following the program's tradition, and he was congratulated by everyone, including Minho, who did it begrudgingly. 

In the backseat of the car, on the way home after the end of the recording, Minho was lost in thought. He muttered to himself: 

“What did he do in that Japchae to make it so good?” 

Seungmin, who was driving, looked at Minho through the rearview mirror and replied: 

“Why not admit that the kid is really good?” he saw how Minho tapped his lower lip with his finger while gazing at the Seoul skyscrapers. 

“It was luck!“ he was stubborn. “No one with as little experience as he did could make a dish like that!” 

Seungmin returned his attention to the traffic; he couldn't change his best friend's mind. 

The episode of the culinary battle between Minho and Jisung aired a few weeks later, and the impact on social media was immense. The viewership reached surprising levels, with fans and spectators eager to see the outcome of this culinary rivalry that had unfolded on the Chef's Kingdom program. 

Social media was filled with heated discussions, memes, praise, and even some criticism. The competition between the renowned alpha lupus chef and the talented young omega had captured the public's imagination and become one of the most talked-about episodes of the season. 

It was no surprise when it was announced that they would compete again. Minho was more furious and determined than ever to win this round and claim the crown. He was determined to prove that the previous episode had been nothing but luck and that he was the true master in the kitchen. 

To make everything even more exciting, the guests only knew what the dish of the day was at the time of recording, which could be advantageous or not. And that day, it wasn't advantageous for Jisung, who was focused on Korean cuisine. 

The chosen dish for the rematch that day was Ratatouille, a dish internationally known for the animated film of the same name. Both chefs received the necessary ingredients and utensils, and the competition was about to begin. 

As a good chef, Jisung needed to adapt, understand. He knew how to make Ratatouille, but it was far from his specialty. This gave Minho an advantage; he was quick to make the dish, leaving Jisung with little time for presentation. 

The victory was given to the alpha, who had a confident smile and enjoyed seeing Jisung congratulating him with an unpleasant expression. Jisung's dish was good, but not as good as Minho's. 

And the next week, there they were again. The paycheck per episode wasn't so bad, but what was worth it was the visibility they were gaining and the pleasure of competing; both had something in common besides talent in the kitchen: competitiveness. 

“You definitely still haven't learned how to handle a knife.“ Minho made a point of being informal, taking the opportunity to taunt Jisung as they prepared to enter the studio, that day their dressing rooms were side by side. 

“Why don't you teach me, sunbae?“ he teased. Jisung sometimes wished he could be disrespectful, but he had to maintain the tradition even if Minho didn't prove himself worthy of it. “Sunbae should act like one and teach your hoobae how to handle a knife, right?” 

“Even if I taught you, you would continue doing it the wrong way.” 

“I think someone is afraid of being surpassed.” Jisung let out a challenging smile. 

Minho raised an eyebrow, not allowing the taunt to affect him. 

“By you?” he replied with a touch of sarcasm. “No, Han, I'm afraid of many things, and you're not one of them.” 

“Let's agree, sunbae, you're getting old.“ he knew how to play his cards. “Don't you think it's about time you got married, sunbae?” 

“I have more important things to worry about than marriage, Han.” 

Jisung maintained his challenging smile, knowing he was getting under the alpha lupus's skin: 

“Ah, of course, more important things like losing to me.” 

When their friends said they looked like two kids fighting, they weren't wrong. 

Minho was about to retort, but he couldn't speak because a production member interrupted them, asking them to go to the studio. 

They recorded another episode where the victory went to Minho again. Jisung couldn't surpass the other chef this time due to a detail. 

Despite Jisung and Minho being two introverts who weren't very fond of going out with strangers to drink, they accepted the invitation from the host Jeongin to go out for drinks with the program's production team. Everyone wanted to celebrate the successful episodes. 

“We were the most-watched Wednesday program on the last episode! Let's celebrate!“ Jeongin spoke, raising his beer. 

The team, including Jisung and Minho, raised their glasses and toasted to the success of the show. The two chefs were more reserved compared to the rest of the team. Even outside the competitive environment, it was still possible to sense a tense atmosphere around them, the angry glances they exchanged and always avoiding each other. 

Jisung and Minho liked to drink beer, so it wasn't so bad to be there. 

“Hyung drinks a lot!“ Seungmin commented. He was a social butterfly compared to Minho, who just remained quiet. “He almost got sick from drinking so much when we went to Oktoberfest in Germany last year!” 

Jisung ended up chuckling at the information, which drew the confused look from the alpha lupus. 

“What's up?“ Minho asked. 

“Oh, nothing.“ he teased. “I just find it funny that a lupus like you is so weak when it comes to beer.” 

“Weak?“ Minho was incredulous. “You don't know me, kid.” 

“Do I need to?” 

Minho rolled his eyes. 

“An omega like you wouldn't even handle half of what I drank in Germany.” 

Jisung couldn't resist the opportunity to continue provoking Minho: 

“Oh, sunbae, I think you misunderstood.“ that taunting smile was what fueled the hatred in Minho. “I'm a pretty strong omega when it comes to beer. You wouldn't believe the parties we had when I was in college.” 

Minho arched an eyebrow, challenging him: 

“Oh, really?” 

“You wouldn't survive three rounds.” 

“And you wouldn't make it through two at Oktoberfest.” 

Changbin and Seungmin exchanged glances, seeing how tense the atmosphere was getting. The beta was about to protest, claiming that it was a terrible idea, and they needed to act like the adults they were, but Seungmin signaled him to let the chaos happen. 

The chairs at the bar table were slowly emptying, but the table was getting filled with more and more beer mugs. Jisung and Minho already didn't know what round they were in, but they knew it was beyond fifteen. 

Changbin wasn't drinking because he was driving, but Seungmin didn't care about emptying his mugs. However, unlike the other two alcohol enthusiasts, he didn't have a very high tolerance, which ended up leaving him drunk and wanting to go home. 

"Jisung, that's enough; we need to go." Changbin grabbed the omega's arm, who pouted. 

"Are you giving up on your manager, Jisung?" Minho taunted; his ears and cheeks were flushed. 

"He's not my manager!" He took a big sip of beer. "Can't you see I'm in the middle of a competition, hyung?" 

Seungmin got closer to Changbin, leaning slightly on his shoulder, and whispered something there. The beta, who was much shorter than the alpha, sighed and took some money out of his wallet. 

"Try to get a taxi." He handed the money to Jisung, who nodded and put it in his pants pocket. "Call me when you get home." 

"I won't remember." 

"I know." Changbin pushed Seungmin a little; he was almost falling on top of him, dragging the drunk alpha out of the establishment. He was going to give a ride to that big, drunk man. 

More rounds were had between them and had to stop, not because they were tired or reached their limit, but because the establishment was closing and they were being a nuisance. This ended up with both of them on the sidewalk on that chilly autumn night. 

"Do you want me to call a taxi for you, Jisung-ssi?" Jeongin asked, adjusting the coat he was wearing. He and some program staff were saying their goodbyes, going their separate ways. 

"It's fine, Jeongin-ssi!" The omega's voice was slightly altered, clearly drunk. "I've already called one!" He lied but was going to call. 

"Oh, all right." Jeongin looked at Minho, who had given up trying to access his phone; facial recognition wasn't working due to the low light, and he couldn't get his password right, watching the scene suspiciously. "Goodbye, Minho-ssi." 

"Goodbye." He replied politely. He also felt the effects of the alcohol, but showed it less. 

Jeongin moved away with other colleagues, leaving the omega and the alpha lupus alone on that sidewalk with a lamppost that was flickering. 

Jisung reached for his phone to call a taxi when he heard a disbelieving laugh coming from Minho. It wasn't loud, but it wasn't low enough to go unnoticed. 

"What are you laughing at?" Jisung asked curiously, his words coming out slightly slurred due to the alcohol. 

Minho shook his head slowly. 

"Now I know why you're winning the presenter's votes." 

"What?" 

Minho, still under the influence of alcohol, leaned slightly in Jisung's direction and murmured: 

"It's not just the public you're winning over, is it?" 

Jisung, a little surprised by the observation, furrowed his brow. 

"What do you mean?" 

Minho nodded his head in the direction of Jeongin, who was still visible on the sidewalk, talking to other staff members. 

"You're having sex with him, aren't you?" 

“What?" Jisung almost shouted, wide-eyed, not believing that accusation. 

“That's cheating, Jisung-ssi," he put his hands in his pants pockets. "But it's part of the game. I think you should take every opportunity to win, right?" He said with a mocking smile. "Even if it means... pleasing certain people?" 

“You're such a jerk!" Jisung was visibly affected, his face flushed from the alcohol, his voice trembling. He didn't even bother to be formal; his mind was too scattered for that. "You barely know me! You live on assumptions and talk as if you've been with me 24/7!" 

“I know you well enough to say that," Minho also had red cheeks and tired eyes; this competition was not a good idea. "An ill-mannered guy who thinks he's better than everyone just because he's good-looking!" 

“I am good-looking, so what? It's not my fault that I take care of myself!" He pointed a finger at Minho, but it ended up being crooked, not pointing directly. "You accuse me of sleeping with Jeongin-ssi, but who's to say you're not using your beauty to seduce the omega judge?" 

“Are you calling me handsome?" 

“I didn't say that!" He had a pout on his lips. "Maybe you're just a little handsome." He made a small gesture with his fingers, Minho raised an eyebrow, doubting him. "Okay, you're damn handsome! But that's not the point, Minho-ssi! Stop thinking you know anything about me! Stop tarnishing my image in the media!" 

“No, you never apologized to me for me to consider that possibility." 

“Because you never allowed me to!" He stomped his foot; he looked like a spoiled child. He approached Lee slightly, but kept a safe distance. "I tried to talk to you after the party, but you ignored my messages on Instagram!" 

“For what you did, you should make a public apology." 

“To humiliate me even more? No chance!" Stubborn, he took another step, making their feet touch. "You're disgusting, Lee; you'd use the fact that I'm reclusive to further damage my image!" 

“Screw your issues! I would have removed your name from my mouth the moment you apologized!" Minho retorted in the same tone, squinting his eyes. "But you're just a brat who thinks he has some talent." 

They looked like two kids arguing. 

The distance between them was closing; their faces were increasingly flushed due to the alcohol approaching. 

“Disgusting." 

“Despicable." Minho replied. 

“Nusret Gökç from Shopee." 

“Budget Gordon Ramsay." 

Jisung let out a short laugh, licked his cheek, and continued: 

“I hate you." 

“You can be sure that I hate you much more." 

Their gazes were already drifting to each other's mouths as they approached and exchanged insults. In the next second after their final statement, their mouths met in a confused and clumsy kiss, with Jisung gripping Minho's head to keep him there, and Lee embracing the other's waist. Lips collided aggressively, teeth clashing, and tongues lost, tasting the bitter flavor of alcohol present in both their mouths. 

They weren't sure if it was the alcohol or the fact that they hated each other so much that was causing such intense excitement, bodies pressed together, saliva shared in a disastrous way. 

“Your place…” Minho tried to speak in the midst of the kiss, his voice getting lost in the other's mouth. “or mine?” 

“Your place.“ Jisung answere almost automatically, not wanting to separate from the mouth he had just discovered was incredibly good to kiss, even when drunk. 

They took a taxi to Minho's apartment. They didn't kiss during the ride; on the contrary, they sat close to each door and avoided eye contact. They could easily give up, think things through, and retreat from that idea driven by the heat of the moment, especially after the taxi stopped in front of the building. They got out after paying, paying more than they should have, but they didn't care. Minho had trouble entering the apartment's security code; it took him a few minutes to remember the last digit. When he finally remembered and the door opened, Jisung pushed him inside and resumed devouring the older man's mouth. 

The door closed by itself, because if it depended on them, Minho's apartment would remain exposed for the rest of the night. They couldn't stop kissing, tangled in a mess of tongues and saliva, filled with longing and lost in that large apartment until Minho paused the kisses so they could go to the bedroom without causing even more damage along the way. 

Minho distributed kisses down Jisung's neck, inhaling the brief scent of Alyssum, which reminded him of honey, but the scent was muffled by the blockers Jisung used. He unbuttoned Jisung's dress shirt almost tearing off the buttons, revealing his impressive upper body with an eye-catching chest and defined abs. Minho's mouth slid across Han's warm skin, eliciting grunts and lip bites, his hand running through Lee's hair, fingers entwined in the black strands. The shirt was completely removed, leaving the entire upper body exposed, and Minho discovered that Jisung had a tattoo near his hip. 

It was unfair that only one of them was exposed from the torso, so Jisung tried to clumsily remove Minho's shirt. The older one understood the message and did the same, returning to kiss the mouth with flavorful lips. 

The pants were the next pieces to go, and it was already evident how excited they both were about it. Before they continued, Minho stopped the kisses to ask a question that had been on his mind since the moment they entered the bedroom. 

“Are you sure?” his rational side trying to take control, but failing miserably. 

“Shut up.“ he pulled the alpha into an even more desperate kiss. 

Minho lay his defined body on the bed, running his hand over Jisung's soft skin, leaving imprints with his fingertips. He paused the kiss again but now distributed kisses on the exposed chest, paying attention to those erect nipples while his hands traced the slim waist down to the underwear concealing the excited cock. He ignored it and went straight to the moist spot below that was staining the fabric due to arousal. 

He circled with his middle and ring fingers, applying slight pressure but not proceeding further, while his other free hand worked on removing the underwear, which was a bit difficult. Jisung kept looking down all the time as if he could see something; the sensation of that pressure against his hole was making him anxious, and his body burned with excitement, craving relief. 

“What are you waiting for?” the alcohol was making him more brazen. 

“You’re quite impatient.“ Minho replied, looking into his eyes. 

“You're just slow!” he moaned and shifted slightly when he felt the two fingers that were previously pressing him penetrate. 

The alpha kissed Jisung's chest and pushed his fingers all the way in, feeling how wet he was. There was hardly any need for further preparation due to the omega's slick. 

“Do you always get this wet?” 

“Fuck you!” 

Minho continued the preparation carefully, using his fingers to relax Jisung, who was clearly eager and provocative. The alpha leaned in to kiss the omega's neck and enjoy his soft scent, giving kisses and gentle bites while his fingers continued their work, listening to the sweet moans produced by that beautiful voice. 

“Oh God!“ Jisung moaned and grabbed the shoulders when he felt the small fingers touching him so well. He wasn't satisfied; it could have been good, but he wanted more. “Stop stalling and fuck me already!” 

Minho chuckled softly against his neck; that desperation was funny but even more exciting. The alpha wanted more than anything, especially as he felt that wet and tight interior against his fingers, eager to feel the same on his shaft. 

He pulled away from Jisung, getting off the bed with his fingers wet and going to the dresser where he kept the condoms. However, his constant state of arousal and the effects of the alcohol didn't make him the best procurer. Jisung was about to complain about the delay – he was quite impatient – when Minho finally found what he was looking for. He returned to the edge of the bed, taking off the last missing pieces of his clothing, revealing his intimacy, which made Jisung lick and bite his lips in response. He thought that on another occasion – because his mind was a mess – he would put that cock in his mouth. 

“Like what you see?” 

“No.“  his mouth said one thing, but his behavior was entirely different. 

“What a pity.“ Minho knew he was lying; that fixed gaze on him and the half-open mouth almost drooling told the truth. 

He slipped back between Jisung's legs after putting on the condom, kissing the omega again because he was addicted to it, playing with that restless tongue and feeling the mix of alcohol between the exchanges of fluids. 

He took a pillow that wasn't being used on the side and placed it under Jisung's back to make him comfortable. With great pain in parting their mouths, Minho moved them away and held onto the omega's legs, lifting them so that his feet rested on his shoulders, positioning himself to rub his boner against the hole he had been stimulating moments ago. 

Jisung could feel the burning in his stomach, the eagerness to receive that alpha. He had never had sex with a lúpus before and was curious to know if it was different from normal alphas. Well, from what little he could think, Minho knew what he was doing. 

In a slow motion, the alpha advanced, feeling the internal heat and the already familiar wetness, biting his lip to hold back a moan, closing his eyes with that great feeling of being embraced by the person he genuinely hated. He placed his hand on Han's chest while the other gripped one of his legs, tightening the skin as he entered the omega's body. 

Jisung wasn't much different; he didn't know whether to smile or moan, his eyes half-open, almost closed, his body and mind equally a mess of desire and pleasure. But he was desperate that Minho was slow; he knew it was to avoid hurting him, but he was impatient, so he threw his body slightly in his direction, making him enter more quickly and almost completely. 

This surprised the alpha who, out of vengeance, tilted the omega's hips more to go deeper and their hips finally touched. Jisung almost screamed in surprise; he liked that. 

“So anxious.“ Minho teased. 

“Idiot.” 

A stronger thrust was made, causing the bed to shake, and Jisung again moaned loudly, having to put the back of his hand to his mouth. If he had any objections, he wouldn't make them anymore, because Minho started the more rhythmic movements, and the hand on his chest moved to his slim waist, squeezing his sides as he penetrated deeper and gradually increased the speed, satisfying that omega who enjoyed it. 

He ran his hands through his own messy brown hair, the pillow on his back helped him to avoid issues since his body was constantly shaken by the alpha's movements. The sounds in the room were obscene, a mix of skin slapping against each other, inconsistent moans coming from both of them, and some profanities from a large part of the omega who didn't have a clean mouth. 

Jisung didn't know if it was the alcohol affecting his senses or the fact that Minho was a lúpus that was making everything even more intense, or maybe it was the fact that it was someone who hated him who was fucking him so well. The leg that was previously supported on Minho's shoulder was now bent, with the knees close to his chest, allowing the alpha to go even deeper, catching an angle that made the omega below see stars. With difficulty, Jisung grabbed his own dick, which was being lightly stimulated due to the friction, masturbating it properly while his insides were stimulated, especially at a point that made him delirious. 

Minho wasn't much different from him, it was noticeable in the swelling that formed right at the base of his cock; he was a lúpus, after all. Jisung felt that knot banging against him but not penetrating him, and he couldn't help but think, in that state of complete pleasure, that it would be interesting to receive the knot; he had never received one, didn't know what it was like, and his curiosity was growing. However, he didn't have much time to decide because his brief consciousness was overcome by the thrust that made him arch his back and feel that wonderful relief spreading through his nerve endings. 

The alpha came in succession with the tightness he had, one of his hands gripping his own knot – since he didn't tie them together – and throwing his head back in a hoarser moan than usual, emptying his entire ejaculation into the condom made to withstand him. He had to hold onto the bed after all that intense orgasm because he would fall on top of Jisung; it had been a long time since he had something that made him lose his balance. 

After a few minutes following their panting ecstasy and with their minds in disarray, Minho withdrew, removed the condom, and went to the bathroom of the room to throw it in the trash. He returned to the bed with Jisung already lying face down and sleeping as if nothing had happened, giving a good view of what they had just done. 

They needed a shower; they were sweaty, dirty — Minho's sheets were going to have a tough time with the stains the next day because Jisung had stained the fabric when he lay face down — and a bit sticky. But in their drunken and tired states, they'd leave it for the next day. So Minho turned off the bedroom light and lay beside Han, covering him with the blanket and turning the other way. 

The next morning, Jisung was curled up against the alpha's body, his nostrils graced by the scent that reminded him of nutmeg, Minho's scent blockers already wearing off. He had his face close to Minho's neck, thinking that this scent came from his dreams, but, when he touched it, dreams didn't have a scent. 

Jisung slowly opened his eyes, seeing the skin in front of him, thinking he had slept with some alpha at the bar the night before — he didn't remember much; his memories were jumbled. However, he didn't care much; his body was relaxed, and the scent that grew more intense over time made him feel good. Almost too good. 

Being the touch-deprived person he was upon waking up, Jisung hugged the body that was lying on his back, touching his lips to the shoulder and happy to have had a good night. He didn't care much who that alpha was; it was just a one-night stand. 

The alpha grumbled something that seemed to be a "Good morning," and Jisung replied in kind, but he opened his eyes in shock when he recognized that tone. In a panic, his eyes widened to the point of nearly popping out of their sockets, and he squirmed on the bed, almost falling off it. Minho woke up at once, also startled by the movement, and, upon seeing Jisung, who was now naked and almost on the floor, he had a similar reaction. 

They stared at each other for a few seconds until Jisung got up from the bed and grabbed a pillow, hitting Minho with it rather brutally. 

"You bastard! Opportunist!" he yelled while Minho defended himself against the pillow's blows. "I knew that bet was foul play!" 

"Am I an opportunist?" Minho tried to take the pillow from the omega's hands but failed. "You seduced me! I should be accusing you!" 

"Idiot! Bastard!" He hit Minho a few more times with the pillow until Minho finally managed to take it and pull Jisung down onto his lap, holding him by the bare shoulders. "Get your hands off me!" 

"You're the one holding me!" Minho protested; he wasn't even touching Jisung, just holding the pillow so that he wouldn't be beaten any longer. 

Jisung realized then how close they were, and his body seemed to like it. Still, he couldn't stop hating Minho, especially when he thought about what they had done the night before. 

"Sunbae...," his voice was calmer but still furious. He didn't move away. "Do you remember what happened?" 

Minho shook his head. 

"I was as drunk as you, Jisung." 

"Do you know if... you used a condom?" It was embarrassing to ask Minho that. 

"If you get off me, I can see." 

Jisung retreated, getting off Minho's lap and covering himself with the blanket to hide his body. Minho would get up, but he was also completely naked, and that was embarrassing. 

"See that you don't keep staring," Minho grumbled and got up, going to the bathroom to check the trash, confirming the omega's question. "Don't worry; we used-" 

He noticed that Jisung hadn't followed his earlier request. 

"I told you not to stare!" he exclaimed. 

"Sorry!" Jisung pulled the blanket up to his flushed face. 

Minho snorted and started picking up the clothes strewn on the floor and threw Jisung's clothes on top of him. 

"Dress up," his tone was authoritative, but he didn't use his command voice. 

"Can I take a shower first?" Jisung asked, still huddled in the blanket. 

"There are clean towels under the sink." He left the room to give the omega some privacy; Minho would use the other bathroom in the apartment. 

Jisung took a shower and, as he washed himself with the liquid soap, he realized that his body was covered in marks, with his neck and waist most notably bearing the marks of Minho's fingers that had squeezed him hard during their encounter. He didn't want to think about it, but it was inevitable; his mind seemed to want to torture him with possibilities. 

He put on his clothes after drying himself with a towel. Upon leaving the room, he met Minho, who was having what seemed to be tea, prepared by himself. 

"Do you want some?" He offered a bit. 

"No, thank you," Jisung felt too strange. He realized his phone was on the kitchen table, so he grabbed it but didn't know what to do. 

Should he tell Changbin? The beta would either laugh at him or simply not believe that Jisung had slept with Minho; the situation was so absurd that he himself couldn't believe it had happened. 

"About what happened..." Minho spoke after taking a sip of tea. 

"Forget it." Jisung was curt and straightforward. "It was a mistake. Let's pretend it never happened." 

"Same," Minho took another sip of tea. "No one can know what happened here." 

"I agree," Jisung avoided looking at Minho; he was afraid that looking at him would bring back his memories. "I... I'm going now." 

"Goodbye," the alpha seemed indifferent. 

Jisung left the apartment, and Minho placed the teacup on the counter, leaning on it and closing his eyes. He had vague memories of what had happened that night; his memories were still muddled, but he could remember the sensations well. Damn it, he knew that the overwhelming sensation he had felt wasn't just a coincidence: his wolf, which almost didn't manifest itself due to the blockers, was enchanted. He slapped himself hard to try to get rid of those intrusive thoughts of his instinct. 

Jisung arrived home and plugged in his phone. He changed his clothes in the meantime, and when the device powered on, he noticed several missed calls from Changbin. The first thing he did was call the beta, who answered almost immediately. His voice conveyed both concern and anger. 

"Han Jisung! Where have you been, you irresponsible?"  

Jisung had to move the phone away from his ear because the beta was shouting without restraint. 

"Good morning, hyung," he ignored that irate tone. "I'm sorry for not answering; my phone died." 

"You should've charged it and let me know you arrived safely! I was worried about you!" 

Oh, yeah, Hyung, I got home safely after having a good time with Lee Fucking Know. That's what Jisung thought of replying amidst the pounding headache of the hangover that hit him like a truck. 

"I got home fine; I just have a terrible hangover," he said, putting his hand on his forehead and massaging it. 

"Of course, with your stupid drinking bet! By the way, do you know Seungmin, Minho's manager?" Jisung grumbled affirmatively. "He's worried too because Minho hasn't given any sign since yesterday. Do you know where he might be?" 

Jisung knew very well where he could be. 

"How would I know? He's an alpha lupus; he's probably out there with some omega," and he knew which omega. 

"Yeah, you're right. Anyway, there should be some Haejangguk in the fridge from that time you almost had alcohol poisoning. Heat it up and have some." 

"Alright, hyung." 

"Take care!" Jisung swore he heard a different voice in the background before Changbin hung up, but he didn't pay much attention. He got up and found the leftover soup that the beta had mentioned, heated it, and had a little. It wasn't much, but it was enough. 

While enjoying the delicious soup, Jisung couldn't stop thinking about the mess he had made. How would he face Minho in the studio? He had told himself to forget and pretend that nothing had happened, but he didn't know if he could actually do that. 

But screw it, right? He didn't even remember what had happened. 

If I don't remember, it didn't happen.  

[...]

Their next meeting was not at the show's studio but on an internet channel famous for interviewing celebrities. The two chefs were in high demand because of the show they were participating in, and their names were on everyone's lips. So, it was expected that they would be invited to other kinds of events. Jisung had to make some changes to his style, like wearing high-collared clothing to hide all those bruises from that fateful night. 

The alpha host, HwangHyunjin, was enthusiastic, and he went through the standard channel introduction while Minho and Jisung sat on two high stools, waiting for the questions to start. They hadn't even greeted each other upon arrival. 

"So, my first question is for Jisung," Hyunjin read from the card and placed it on his lap, "Jisung-ssi, how did you feel when you found out you'd be competing against Minho-ssi, your senior with an already established career, on the show Chef's Kingdom?" 

Jisung had expected a question like this; everyone was curious about his reaction. 

"It was hot," he didn't choose his words very well. "Discovering that I would compete against Senior Minho was a huge surprise. He's highly renowned in our field, and winning against him, wow, it was something that never crossed my mind!" 

Minho glanced at him from the corner of his eye, irritated by the audacity of the omega. 

"It's indeed amazing!" Hyunjin smiled, making the atmosphere more comfortable despite the evident tension between the two. "Now, Minho-ssi, you lost the first round of the show to Jisung-ssi. Did you ever imagine that would happen?" 

Minho adjusted his shirt collar and said, confidently: 

"Jisung is a very talented young man," that made the omega smile faintly from the compliment. "But he still has a lot to learn. He got lucky in the first episode because Japchae is a simple dish, but he showed confusion with the following ones," his tone was arrogant, despite the gentle words. 

Jisung couldn't hide his incredulous look at Minho, wishing he could tell the alpha to shove it. 

The intense exchange of glances between Jisung and Minho didn't go unnoticed by Hyunjin, who, sensing the tension in the air, tried to lighten the mood. 

"Well, it seems that the competition is still alive here in the studio!" Hyunjin laughed nervously. "Let's move on to the next question. I apologize for being intrusive, but it's what the audience wants to know! This has been the hottest topic on social media!" Hyunjin was excited, and Jisung expected the worst. "Is it true that you two are ex-lovers?" 

Minho laughed, a fake laugh, and Jisung had a frightened expression, not believing that question. He looked at Changbin, who was with the production, and the beta was signaling for Jisung to answer. 

"Of course not!" they both responded in unison, clearly uncomfortable. 

"I would never date this guy," Jisung pointed at Minho and made a disgusted face. "He's not my type." 

"Jisung is too young, practically a child," Minho replied. 

"I'm twenty-three!" 

"So, a child!" 

"At least I'm not at the doorstep of retirement!" 

"It looks like things are heating up here," Hyunjin tried to defuse the situation. 

Hwang managed to control the guests' bad mood and continued the interview with questions focused on their respective professional careers. Of course, they took jabs at each other whenever they could, especially Minho, who didn't hold back. 

In the parking lot, Changbin ended up forgetting the car keys and asked Jisung to wait while he went to retrieve them, leaving the omega alone near the white car. He was about to pick up his phone when he saw Minho approaching. He automatically rolled his eyes, imagining that the older man was going to intimidate him again. 

"What's the criticism going to be this time? That I don't cry properly when cutting onions?" Jisung said sarcastically. 

Minho looked him up and down with a judgmental look. 

"Do you think the world revolves around you?" he retorted, his words dripping with disdain. 

"For what other reason would you be here?" Jisung raised an eyebrow. 

"Because this is my car," he pointed to the black car next to the white one. 

Jisung exhaled and rolled his eyes again, cursed coincidences. 

The alpha leaned against the black car, avoiding eye contact, which annoyed Jisung, making the situation extremely uncomfortable. 

"Aren't you going to get in?" Jisung asked. 

"I'm waiting for Seungmin," Minho replied curtly, maintaining his distant posture. "Besides, it's none of your business." 

"It seems like your humility is still your most striking trait, sunbae," Jisung couldn't help but smile sarcastically. 

"We could end all this drama, just apologize to me," the proposal came with audacity that caught Jisung by surprise. "On your knees." 

"I will never kneel for you." 

"Aren't you afraid that the opening of your restaurant might fail?" 

"Are you threatening me, sunbae?" he held his ground. 

Minho shrugged, remaining calm. 

"I'm just saying that the critique of someone like me carries a lot of weight. You should be more cautious, Han." 

The tension in the parking lot was so electrically charged it could power a city. Sparks were practically flying from their eyes, and the body heat was rising, both engaged in this cat-and-mouse game. 

"I like to take risks, sunbae," Jisung whispered, his voice carrying a note of provocation. Minho could only hear it because he was close enough. "Don't underestimate me." 

They were close, just like on the night they had kissed, but unlike that day, they didn't join their mouths. Their gazes were intense, and Jisung found himself looking at those pretty lips that were saying these words that were making his blood boil. He was too close; all he had to do was move closer to feel them. However, his thoughts drifted away when he heard footsteps and voices approaching. They pulled apart, pretending that they hadn't been on the verge of throwing punches — or another kiss. 

"Sorry for the delay, Sungie," Changbin said casually, unlocking the car by pressing the key button. Seungmin was by his side and changed the subject of their conversation, going to the white car next door. 

"You didn't take long, hyung," Jisung replied with some pent-up annoyance, still staring at Minho. 

They got into their respective cars, each heading their own way. During the journey back home, Jisung ran his hand over his neck over the high collar, thinking about those marks and how Minho's mouth had been so close to him just a few minutes ago. He couldn't deny that he had a strong desire to devour those pretty lips and, now sober, taste their texture and flavor. 

"Is everything okay?" Changbin asked, noticing through the rearview mirror that Jisung was distracted by something. 

The omega snapped out of his reverie, returning to reality. What am I thinking? 

"It's nothing, hyung. Just thinking about the opening." 

"Don't pressure yourself too much; it'll all work out." 

"Yeah, it will," he replied automatically, his mind drifting back to Minho. Damn, he was about to collapse at any moment. What was that lúpus alpha doing to him? 

Three days later, they met again, now at the same gathering that had caused all the misunderstanding. Jisung was no longer a new face as he had been the previous year, so he didn't have to go through the whole ceremony as before, which was a relief. However, it wasn't a relief to find out he would be sitting at the same table as Minho. 

He hated the organization of that event; it was clear that the choice of the table was intentional due to their rising names. To make matters worse, Changbin wasn't present because the event was exclusive to chefs and aspirants, so there was no way to distract himself, ending up with Minho—the regrettable one—as the closest person to him. They spoke with everyone around them, except with each other, ignoring each other's existence. 

This year's gathering was taking place at the mansion of a well-known and wealthy alpha chef, the richest among all there, who made a point of showing off his wealth. Everyone knew he wasn't anywhere near the best and only had all the fame because he was a brown-noser. Everyone wanted to take advantage of him, well, not everyone. 

Minho was talking to a coworker at a distance from the table, but close enough to have a good view of Jisung. He didn't want to be near the omega, but involuntarily, he kept him in sight. Jisung was eating one of the meals served at dinner, and the food was magnificent for a culinary event. He enjoyed the dish when the host sat down next to him, greeting him nonchalantly. 

"Han Jisung! I see you're enjoying the food." 

The omega nodded, not responding verbally because he was chewing. 

"This dish was made with gold leaves and premium pieces of hanwoo!" he bragged. "But you must know that already, you're a very talented chef." 

"Thank you, sir. I'm flattered," he was shy and a little uncomfortable with the way the much older alpha was looking at him; he felt like a vulnerable prey. "The party this year is quite enjoyable, sir." 

"Oh, don't be so humble, Jisungie. Can I call you that?" he touched the omega's shoulder, who looked at his hand with some disgust. "Have you been told that you look handsome in this navy blue suit?" 

"Yes," he wanted to get away from there; the old man was making him extremely uncomfortable. 

"It should look even better without it," Jisung thought he had misheard; it couldn't be that direct. "I heard you're opening your restaurant next month. You know I can help you make it a guaranteed success, right?" The old alpha had a seductive tone that almost made Jisung show a look of disgust. 

"Sir, I appreciate your kindness," he hated that he had to be polite and ignore that harassment to maintain his reputation, which wasn't looking so great already thanks to Minho. He wanted to remove the man's hand from his shoulder but didn't know how to do it. "But it's getting late for me; I'm afraid I need to leave." 

"Oh, it won't be a problem, Jisungie," the nickname was disgusting. "You can sleep in my room." 

The old man's hand slid down Jisung's arm and only stopped before reaching his thighs because a hand grabbed him. 

"Jisung," the two sitting at the table looked at Minho, who was almost between them, holding the man's wrist, preventing him from reaching the omega's thighs. "I don't have all day; I'm going to leave you here if you take any longer," Minho shifted his gaze to the alpha he held and let go, making a surprised expression. "Oh, sorry, Mr. Lee, it's just that I'm giving him a ride." 

Jisung quickly understood the move and took a napkin, wiping his face that wasn't dirty, then got up from the chair, making a slight bow to the man who had harassed him moments ago. 

"I'm sorry, sir, but I really need to go," the omega had a fake smile on his face, but he was relieved to have escaped from that situation. 

Minho said his goodbyes to the host, holding his disgust, and Jisung accompanied him to the mansion's parking lot. He could stop there, and it was good enough; he had managed to escape from a terrible situation and could leave. Both of them could, as they weren't the most sociable people, after all. Jisung would need to call a taxi or Changbin because he didn't drive; he didn't have a car, the white car he often drove was Changbin's, not his. 

Although he was grateful to Minho for helping him, he was also uncomfortable, especially with the tone the alpha had used when talking to him in the parking lot. 

"Aren't you going to thank me?" Minho said, sounding audacious and arrogant. 

Jisung felt his pride being wounded; he didn't want Minho to think he had done some extraordinary favor. If it were someone else, Jisung would probably have thanked, but it was Minho. 

"I don't need your help. I had everything under control." 

Minho stopped walking to look at the omega. 

"That's not how it looked." 

“Do you think just because you're a lúpus, you can meddle in other people's affairs?” 

“What's the problem with admitting that I saved you from that guy?” 

“I wasn't in danger for you to save me. I'm not a helpless omega who thinks I am.“ he was firm in his words. “I can handle myself.” 

“So, should I just leave you to be harassed by that disgusting old man all night?” 

“As I said, I can handle myself.” 

“Fine, then go back there. I'll leave anyway; this party is horrible.“ Minho was about to leave. 

Jisung stared at him disdainfully. 

“You're unbelievable.” 

“I'm unbelievable? I just wanted a ‘Thank you’, nothing more.“ Minho tried to justify his actions. 

But Jisung stepped forward, pushing Minho back until he was against a parked car. 

“Oh, right!“ he took a step forward, and Minho took a step back, leaning against a parked car. Jisung exaggerated the sarcasm. "Thank you for doing the bare minimum, Minho-ssi! For saving this beautiful helpless omega from the clutches of a wicked alpha! What the hell is this? A fairy tale now?" He let the irony seep into his words. 

Jisung kept Minho pinned against the car, their heavy breaths echoing in the silence of that cold night, a tense silence. Minho, surprised by the intensity of the situation, couldn't take his eyes off Jisung. 

“Jisung, what are you...“ Minho tried to speak, but his words were interrupted when Jisung tilted his head, and their lips met. 

The alpha almost immediately returned the kiss, opening his mouth without giving them time to get used to the heat of their lips. Their tongues intertwined with impressive voracity, as if they already knew each other deeply, as if they had been waiting for this moment. 

Jisung, carried away by the urgency of desire, pressed Minho more firmly against the car, his hands wandering the alpha's body in search of warmth and comfort. Minho didn't hold back; he grabbed Jisung's hair tightly, making him moan against his lips. 

The sounds of their interrupted breaths and muffled moans filled the parking lot. They were so lost in the moment that they forgot where they were and who they were. The omega's curious hands slid down to the waistband of the alpha's pants, trying to unbuckle his belt with some desperation, causing Minho to stop the kiss and look at Jisung's beautiful flushed face, his lips slightly swollen from the intensity of the kiss. 

Jisung expected to receive insults, a scolding for what he had done, but Minho simply took his hand and pulled him toward the black car he had seen the other day. Looking at it now, the car was a large SUV with tinted windows, perfect for the occasion. 

It didn't take much; they were soon inside the car, kissing and fighting to see who would be on top. Even in those moments, they didn't stop bickering. Jisung had his navy blue jacket removed and thrown onto the front seat; Minho couldn't stand to see that beautiful suit that the previous alpha had ruined with his filthy hands and wanted to remove any trace of Jisung. 

Sober, they were more disoriented than when drunk, each one trying to prove to the other that they had control of the situation, but they had trouble helping each other unbutton the dress shirt or unbuckle the belt, a real mess. 

“Let me do it!” Jisung said impatiently; he was on top this time, and he knelt between Minho's legs, taking a position that made the alpha bite his lip, imagining how it would be without the clothes hindering them. 

The omega noticed the look and, being the good provocateur that he was, sat on the alpha's lap, more precisely on the bulge that was fighting against the fabric, making Minho moan from the pressure and grab Jisung's buttocks, squeezing them beneath the tight pants. 

Jisung didn't take long to have his entire torso exposed, and Minho's hands went from his butt to his waist, hypnotized by how slender and harmonious it was, moving up to land on each nipple, running his fingers simultaneously on both and squeezing the region that had been defined by gym workouts. Minho couldn't decide what he wanted to touch; he was mesmerized by that body. 

Jisung had difficulty removing his pants because of the tight space, but when he finally managed to, he did it all at once, revealing his naked body to Minho's hungry gaze. After the alpha removed his own clothes as well, the omega wasted no time and brought both cocks together, holding them firmly with both hands, masturbating them slowly, feeling the heat from each other, spreading moans and heavy breaths throughout the small, heated car. 

He started to stroke them more quickly, the friction equally pleasurable for both, but Minho had to hold Jisung's wrists because he didn't want to come in that manner. 

“Why...?” Jisung was confused because he thought it was good from the alpha's reaction and what he was feeling. 

“Let me fuck you.“ It came out more desperate than he had imagined. 

If Jisung was already red from body heat, hearing that made him turn as red as a pepper, luckily it was dark enough that Minho couldn't notice. 

“Do you have a condom?“ Safety first. 

“In the glove compartment.“ He nodded towards the front seats. 

Jisung would have to get it since he was sitting on the alpha's lap, preventing him from moving. 

He squeezed between the two front seats, leaning forward and arching his back to open the glove compartment and find the condom he needed. The way he positioned himself gave the alpha in the back seat a good view, and he took advantage of the situation to sit on the seat and grab Jisung's buttocks with his hands, squeezing them and taking the omega by surprise with the sudden act. 

“What do you think you're doing?“ Jisung wasn't bothered; on the contrary, his tone was more of a provocation. 

Minho smiled mischievously, continuing to explore Jisung's buttocks, gently squeezing them as the omega was bent over in the space between the front seats. 

“What do you think I'm doing?“  Minho replied with a mischievous smile, his hands sliding along Jisung's body's curves. “Making the most of the moment, Han.” 

He parted the buttocks, getting a better view of the hole, which already had some slick seeping from the edges. The omega continued searching for what he needed in the glove compartment, but his attention was divided. While doing so, he felt something wet and warm touch the entrance to his body, followed by squeezes on his butt cheeks. The sensation made him arch his back and let out an uncontrollable moan of pleasure. 

The alpha's tongue was more exploratory than before, licking the area without fear or disgust, sending shivers through Jisung's body, who was surprised by such actions, especially when the wet muscle pressed against his hole, tasting some of the nectar that resembled the omega's natural scent. 

Minho's tongue had the power to make Jisung almost forget the reason they were in that position, focusing too much on the sensation unfolding behind him. Finally, with great effort, he found the damn condom, unfortunately, this interrupted the previous stimulation, but something better was about to happen. 

He returned to the back seat, sitting on Minho's lap and handing him the little package, which was opened, and its contents carefully placed to avoid additional issues. Jisung was pulled by the waist and his butt collided — in a pleasurable way — with the hard shaft, his back resting against Minho's chest as he looked at him from the corner of his eye. 

“Want to do the honors?“ the alpha whispered in the omega's ear, his voice husky and filled with desire, making Jisung shiver all over. His legs trembled with anticipation as he glanced sideways at Minho. 

He didn't respond, but his body spoke for him. He positioned himself as best he could and aligned himself, descending slowly and allowing the alpha to slide deeply into him. There was some discomfort, but it wasn't bad. The advantage of being in an SUV was that the car was high, so Jisung didn't bump his head on the ceiling too much. 

Unlike the other day, Jisung was in control now and could dictate how he wanted it. He wasn't drunk, so he was more patient. He placed his hands on the front seats and began to move up and down slowly, adjusting to the size, which was far from humble. He released low, guttural moans and listened to Minho's reactions to each stimulus. He might not have had a good view of the alpha as he had his back to him, but he was certain he was enjoying it. 

And he was right; Minho had a privileged view of Jisung's back, being able to see how his hole accepted him well, his waist emphasized by the angle and his muscles contracting, an image that wouldn't leave his mind anytime soon. 

As the invasion became more pleasurable, Jisung began to move more freely, adjusting the rhythm and depth of his movements to increase mutual pleasure, especially his own, which felt like a rollercoaster ascending to a thrilling drop. 

Changing the pace, they began to hear more needy moans, their eyes rolling back and their breath catching. Both were feeling so good with the rushes of dopamine, oxytocin, and testosterone, a true hormone party providing their pleasure. 

Jisung could feel the knot inflating beneath him, realizing that the alpha was close to cum, so he would stimulate his own cock while riding to provide for his own, but was prevented when the alpha embraced him, pressing his exposed back against the dress shirt that Minho still wore. This sudden act made Jisung pause for a moment, but he quickly understood what Minho wanted to do and was eager for it. 

His already wet cock was held by one of Minho's hands while the other arm held him against his chest, stroking in sync with the hip movements, thrusting upwards harder and more possessively but not enough for the knot to enter. 

Taking advantage of the proximity, Minho pressed his face close to Jisung's scent gland on his neck, kissing the area and inhaling the faint, almost non-existent scent. He wanted to experience that sweet scent without the blockers at some point. 

With the constant stimulation in their two most pleasurable spots, Jisung didn't take long to cum with a drawn - out moan and tremors, his hips being the most affected area, splattering Minho's hand, his own torso with pleasure fluids — and a bit of the car seat. 

A few more thrusts, and it was Minho's turn to experience that pleasure, moaning against the omega's neck and pulling him close. Pulsing inside him and filling the condom that prevented direct contact, his knot bothering him a little for not having been part of the fun, lacking the necessary pressure to satisfy completely. 

Breathless and out of control, that's how they were. They couldn't believe they had done it again, but now sober and in the parking lot of a mansion. 

After the overwhelming climax, Jisung tried to get up, but the intensity of the moment drained all his energy, leaving him completely exhausted. He was a real mess, and Minho had to help him get off his lap. 

When the omega managed to sit a bit sideways on the seat next to the alpha, Minho couldn't help but let out a weak laugh at the pleasure marks on his body. 

“You're a real mess.“ Minho teased, looking at the pleasure marks. 

“Go fuck yourself.“ he replied with his eyes slightly closed. 

Minho removed the condom and tied it, planning to discard it later. His cock was no longer as rigid as before, but the formed knot remained there, catching Jisung's attention, who stared at it curiously. 

“Never seen a knot before?“ he teased. 

Jisung shook his head negatively, being honest, which made Minho a bit uncomfortable. 

“Well, now you've seen it.“ Minho replied, trying to alleviate the discomfort as he leaned over to pick up the clothes that had been thrown on the front seats. 

“Wait.“ he requested, making Minho look at him in confusion. “Are you going to stay like this? Doesn't it hurt?“ he pointed to the swelling. 

“It'll deflate soon; it's just a bit uncomfortable.”  He started putting on his underwear, and when he went to hand Jisung's, he remembered the detail. He leaned over to grab a small box of wet wipes from the open glove compartment and handed it to the omega. “Better clean up.” 

“Thank you.“ he took the small box and removed a few wipes, getting rid of the remnants of their encounter. 

“Now you say thank you.” He grumbled, and Jisung stuck his tongue out at him. 

After they finished cleaning and dressing, Minho drove Jisung back to his home and left him there. They didn't speak during the journey, and they didn't even say goodbye, implying that they shouldn't talk about what had just happened again. 

They thought there wouldn't be a third time, after all, the last two were when they were in vulnerable moments, right? 

Right? 

Well, that's not what their mouths would agree on, nor could they, because they were too busy in a mess of saliva, eager tongues, and swollen lips. 

"Ten minutes to showtime!" a production woman shouted, but they didn't even care. 

Minho pressed Jisung against the dressing room wall, messing up the clothes he was wearing with his desperate hands. 

"We have to go..." Jisung whispered amidst the fiery kisses, his warm breath caressing Minho's face. 

But Minho ignored his words and gripped the younger one's waist firmly, pulling him close and making their intimate parts touch even through the fabric, feeling both excitements. Those desire-filled and heated kisses left them very aroused. 

"Like this?" Minho murmured, rubbing their boners against each other. 

"I get it," Jisung replied with a pout on his lips, and Minho smiled slightly, resuming the passionate kiss. 

He ravaged the lips a little more before turning Jisung against the wall and pulling his hips close, arching his back. He lowered his pants along with his underwear, sucked two of his own fingers, and inserted them into the throbbing hole. 

With skilled movements, Minho prepared Jisung, stretching him and caressing every sensitive part, his fingers getting wetter with each stroke. The omega bit his lips hard to avoid making involuntary sounds, not wanting to attract attention from outside while Jisung's hands were firmly against the wall. 

When the alpha considered that the omega was ready, he removed his fingers, took a condom from his pocket, and lowered his own pants; he was prepared. Without ceremony, he penetrated deeply. Jisung let out a guttural moan in response and had his mouth covered by one of Minho's hands, his body shivering from the intense sensation. 

"Be quiet," the alpha whispered, and Jisung nodded, Minho's hand leaving his mouth to rest on his slender waist. 

They were running out of time, so Minho ended up being a bit rough, not that it bothered Jisung; he liked to feel a bit of pain. The alpha made sure to simultaneously masturbate the omega so that everything would be more pleasurable for him, not just for himself. 

Minho moved with an intensity that left Jisung breathless and with his mind in another galaxy, clutching the wall, his nails digging into the surface as he was fully filled. 

"Five minutes!" the production shouted from outside. 

This motivated Minho to go at it more passionately. He didn't like things to be quick, but the situation demanded haste, and they didn't have all the time in the world. 

The way they were, in chaos, was almost desperate. Jisung had his prostate hit in a way that nearly made him lose his leg balance. 

"Damn..." he gasped in a moan that shouldn't have escaped. "I'm going to... ah..." he couldn't finish the announcement, receiving a flood of pleasure that almost revealed itself in a loud moan. But Minho, in a desperate yet dominant act, covered the omega's mouth with his hand, stifling any sound that might escape. 

Jisung rested his forehead against the wall - which he would have to clean - holding firm so that Minho could finish his part. The alpha didn't take long this time, needing to hold the swelling at the base to relieve it during the orgasm, and to avoid making a sound that would attract attention, he bit Jisung's trapezius - of course, without fangs. 

The problem was that the bite turned out to be stronger than expected, causing Jisung not to be able to contain the scream that escaped in the middle of it. When Lee finished, there wasn't even time to recover from the orgasm when three knocks on the door were heard. 

"Jisung, is everything okay in there? I heard a scream." It was Changbin. The omega quickly looked at the doorknob and thanked the heavens for remembering to lock it. 

"I-I'm fine," trying not to sound out of breath. "I kicked my toe on the corner!" He quickly thought of an excuse. 

"Oh, I see," the beta didn't seem very convinced. "Hurry up, we're coming in!" 

"Okay! Okay! I'm coming out!" He said this at the same time that Minho was actually leaving him. 

He hurried to pull up his pants while Minho adjusted himself. Jisung had to grab a towel and wet it with bottled water to erase the evidence of what had happened there. 

Jisung was the first to leave because it was his dressing room, so it wouldn't cause a commotion, and everyone would be paying attention to him. Once everything was cleaned up, Minho left and hurried to where he was supposed to be. Both were well-dressed, with slightly tousled hair, and Jisung had a bite on his shoulder and shirt, but his apron covered it. 

The recording of the episode began after they prepared in the kitchen, and they competed again, this time with a Korean cuisine dish. The tension in the air was still there, their heightened competitiveness making even the producers sweat. 

Minho finished first, but Jisung won this round with three votes from the judges. This tied them again for a fifth and final round, but it wouldn't take place in the studio. 

Jisung's victory created a frenzy on the internet, with requests for a final showdown between the two chefs. The broadcaster wasted no time in responding to these desires, and two days after the episode aired, they signed contracts for a special final. The ultimate face-off would take place in a luxury hotel located in Jisung's hometown, Busan, in the south of the country. 

The result of this final would not only determine the better chef between them but also secure the success of Jisung's restaurant. The omega was excited, not only for the competition but also for the chance to visit his parents, whom he hadn't seen in a long time. The trip was scheduled for the end of the month and would be a live event. The anticipation was at its peak. 

"Your schedule is too packed; you have interviews this week and a charity event next, recording videos for the internet, and a podcast a day before the trip to Busan. Are you sure you can handle it?" Changbin asked, analyzing the iPad with everything noted down. "And there are the preparations for the restaurant opening; you'll exhaust yourself, Sungie." 

"I can handle it, hyung, you know I don't shy away from challenges. I've been working hard for this." 

Changbin sighed, concerned about the omega's workload. 

"When was the last time you took a vacation?" 

Jisung hesitated for a moment, reflecting on the question before answering honestly. 

"I think I've never taken one." 

Changbin looked back at the iPad and started working on it. Jisung was taken aback by Changbin's sudden decision to cancel his important commitments, and he approached the beta seeking an explanation. Changbin, on the other hand, seemed like an agile ninja, dodging the omega while frantically working on the iPad. 

"What are you doing?" 

"I'm canceling all your events this week and the next." 

Jisung was shocked by Changbin's sudden decision to cancel his important commitments, and he approached the beta seeking an explanation. Changbin, on the other hand, seemed like an agile ninja, dodging the omega while frantically working on the iPad. 

"What?!" Jisung almost shouted, clearly concerned about the cancellation of such important engagements. 

"You have an important final and a restaurant opening! You need to rest, Jisung!" Changbin argued, trying to convince the omega that it was the best for him. 

"You can't do this!" 

"Of course I can, I'm your manager." 

"No, you're not!" 

"I manage your finances, social media, events, take you here and there, and I even get paid for it," the arguments were strong. "I am your manager," he reaffirmed. "And as your manager and best friend, you're going to take two weeks off to prevent a burnout." 

"Changbin hyung!" he whined, sounding like a spoiled child. 

"I'll tell your parents that you'll visit them at the end of the month." Changbin was about to leave the room for more privacy. 

"At least the charity event!" Jisung requested with a pleading look. 

Changbin sighed, giving in to the omega's final request. 

"Okay! Now, make sure you rest." 

[...]

Jisung was bored. 

It had been four days since he had been at home doing nothing, just watching American sitcoms that had lost their charm. Changbin was taking care of his social media, posting the pre-recorded videos to maintain the frequency, which even made the act of posting itself redundant for Jisung. 

He worked out with some equipment he had at his home, which was his biggest distraction, but received a message from Changbin on his phone saying, "Stop overloading yourself and go watch a movie," because the beta was monitoring him through the Apple Watch that Jisung wore on his wrist. 

Jisung felt boredom take over his mind. The house was quiet, and his usual activities had been suspended due to the enforced rest. He couldn't work out, record content, or cook. Everything felt meaningless at that moment. 

As he stepped out of the second shower of the day, Jisung stopped in front of the mirror. His gaze fixed on the bite mark that Minho had left on his trapezius. The mark was still healing, and memories of that day flooded his mind; he wanted more. He thought about calling Minho, but he didn't have his number or his Kakao ID. 

But Changbin had Seungmin's number, and Seungmin had Minho's. 

How was he going to obtain it without raising suspicions? 

He called Changbin, second-guessing whether what he was doing was right. When the beta answered, he made up an excuse, saying he wanted to talk to Minho about the final of the show because it would be interesting for them to discuss it. He believed the beta would hang up on him, but to his surprise, Changbin handed over the Kakao ID straightforwardly without needing to contact Seungmin. 

Jisung jumped for joy, saved the contact, and immediately sent a message, hoping that Lee wouldn't block him. 

_doolsetnet:

busy? 

A good way to start a conversation. 

Minho felt his phone vibrate and, thinking it was Seungmin, paused what he was watching on TV to reply, confused by that strange username addressing him. 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

You got the wrong user. 

_doolsetnet:

I didn't. 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

Who is this? 

_doolsetnet:

guess. 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

It's hard with a username like that. 

_doolsetnet:

:( 

_doolsetnet:

think a bit. 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

Jeongin? 

_doolsetnet:

Jesus. 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

I can't believe it. 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

Why would Jesus be talking to me on KakaoTalk? 

Jisung stared at his phone to make sure he had actually read that, feeling both indignant and amused. 

_doolsetnet:

holy shit 

_doolsetnet:

It's Jisung. 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

Han Jisung? 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

Ohhhh, now I get it. 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

Creative username. 

_doolsetnet:

ty 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

What do you want? 

_doolsetnet:

hmm. 

_doolsetnet:

do u wanna come over to my house? 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

For? 

_doolsetnet:

To play Monopoly. 

Minho laughed, completely forgetting what he was watching on TV. 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

It's an interesting proposal. 

_doolsetnet:

eta? 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

Between 15 minutes and two hours. 

_doolsetnet:

u don't live that far away '-.- 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

You know how the traffic is in Seoul at this hour. 

_doolsetnet:

okay. bring mushrooms. 

t.leeknowsaurus:  

I'll get the poisonous ones. 

_doolsetnet:

good. 

Now he would have something to keep himself occupied. After all, Changbin said he should relax. 

Jisung decided he would prepare something for them to eat. He thought it would be nice to have at least some grilled chicken for them to enjoy before dessert. 

He was organizing the items in the kitchen and getting the chicken ready for slicing when the doorbell rang. He wiped his hands and answered the door. It was no surprise to see Minho on the security camera, holding bags that seemed to contain the mushrooms he had requested. 

He allowed the alpha to enter and guided him to the kitchen, which was near the entrance. He placed the mushrooms on the counter and looked at Jisung, who was washing his hands at the sink. 

"I didn't know there would be dinner," Minho remarked. 

"I thought it would take longer, so I thought it would be interesting to make a meal," Jisung replied. He shook his hands and returned to the central counter, taking the knife and preparing to cut the chicken. 

Minho made a face when he saw how Jisung was holding the knife to cut the chicken. 

"You definitely don't learn." 

Jisung, already fed up with the nagging, looked at Minho and wiggled the knife a bit. 

"How should I hold it, Chef Lee?" he taunted, changing the way he held the knife to an even worse one. 

Minho sighed, hardly believing what he was about to do. He approached Jisung, pressing his body against the omega's. In a husky voice, he whispered, "Like this," and gently adjusted Jisung's hand on the knife, his fingers brushing against the omega's. 

Minho guided the chicken's cut, doing it the way he believed was correct. He only realized he was too close when he caught Jisung's scent, noticing that he wasn't using blockers as he normally did, letting that sweet, honey-like smell fill his airways. 

While guiding the cut, Minho inadvertently got closer, causing Jisung to press against the counter, feeling the alpha's body against his, and Minho's nose inhaling that intoxicating fragrance. 

Minho gently pushed Jisung's sweatshirt collar down, granting more access to the soft skin where Minho's lips traced a warm, gentle path along Jisung's neck. His kisses felt like tender caresses, making Jisung's skin tingle. A wave of heat rushed through Jisung's body with every touch, and he couldn't help but let out soft sighs, tilting his head to offer even more exposure. 

The chicken, the cutting board, and the knife were set aside, with no further intentions of preparing dinner. Jisung turned to face Minho, kissing him passionately. The alpha wasted no time, placing the omega on the kitchen counter. His hands roamed Jisung's body with desire as he quickly removed the omega's sweatpants, leaving his intimate area almost entirely exposed. 

Minho knelt down and placed several kisses on the inside of Han's thighs, who watched with his lips between his teeth, eager for what was to come. He wasted no time, taking Jisung's cock and beginning to stroke it with his hand while continuing the daring kisses on his thighs. He slid his tongue along Jisung's length, feeling every pulse of the omega's body. 

Then he felt the warmth of Minho's mouth engulfing his boner, the alpha's lips skillfully sliding up and down. Jisung placed his hands on the counter behind him, his fingers curling as moans escaped from his lips. Minho's tongue skillfully swirled around his dick, knowing how to tease and stimulate, maintaining a steady rhythm that left Han delirious with pleasure, heat rising through his body, his heart beating faster as the stimulation increased. 

Jisung, unable to hold back any longer, grabbed Minho's hair and arched his back when he felt the alpha's hot throat surround his cock, his moans coming out in an uncoordinated manner. Minho knew what he was doing, alternating between slow suctions and fast movements, at times reaching down his throat, which brought Jisung to the edge of orgasm. 

Minho wasn't in a hurry. He knew how to bring Jisung to the brink and keep him there. His tongue drew circles, up and down, while his hands caressed Jisung's firm thighs. Jisung couldn't hold back his moans any longer, his voice echoing through the house, not having to worry if he was being too noisy or not. Jisung clutched Minho's dark hair, his hips moving involuntarily in search of more, wanting to satisfy that insatiable desire. 

The sensation was intense, and Jisung didn't take long to cum, his body trembling and a loud moan escaping his lips. Minho continued to stroke him gently, prolonging the omega's ecstasy before finally pulling away, not minding swallowing and wiping the corners of his mouth to clean up the remnants. 

Jisung had a smile on his lips, breathless and with a few beads of sweat appearing. He was about to get off the counter, stand up, and decide what to do next – perhaps return the favor. However, he could barely move because Minho picked him up by the hips, causing Jisung to wrap his legs around Minho's slim waist. 

Minho held Jisung by the hips, keeping him firmly around his waist. The alpha was clearly making an effort to bear Jisung's weight, but he didn't seem to mind. 

"You're pretty heavy, you know," he teased. 

"I wouldn't be if you went to the gym!" Jisung retorted. 

Jisung gasped as he felt a firm slap on one of his buttocks, a sensation that wasn't uncomfortable, in fact, the stinging was pleasurable, especially considering the pressure from the same hand that had delivered the slap on the slightly reddened area. 

"Watch your tone with me," Minho exclaimed. 

"Or what?" Jisung retorted. 

Minho smiled wickedly as he continued to caress Jisung's buttocks. 

"Or I won't be gentle," he replied. 

"I wouldn't mind," Jisung said, almost in a whisper, leaning in for a kiss, but Minho turned his head. 

"Will you show me where the bedroom is?" 

"The first door on the second-floor hallway." 

It didn't take them long to reach the room. Minho had some trouble climbing the stairs but managed in the end, arriving in Jisung's bedroom, where he put Jisung on the bed, lying on top of him, and returned to devour his mouth, hungry, as if they couldn't go a second without their lips touching. 

Minho's hands roamed Jisung's body, gliding over his soft and warm skin, exploring every curve, every inch. Jisung shivered under his touch, silently begging for all the layers covering their skins to be removed. 

Minho pulled away a bit while still on the bed to remove their clothes, and Jisung removed what was left, observing how beautiful and slender Minho's body was, with shoulders and a slim waist, something he didn't have much time to do on the previous occasions. 

Minho was about to lean in again but was stopped by Jisung, who had a mischievous look and a wicked smile, deciding to take control of the situation. He leaned over Minho, making him lie on the bed and look at the omega in confusion, as he was used to always maintaining control. 

"Now it's my turn," Jisung said as he crawled over the lying body and ran his tongue along Minho's long neck. 

Jisung savored Minho's neck, alternating between kisses and gentle bites. The scent of Minho's natural aroma enveloped him, making it clear that the scent blocker was already losing its effect. 

He continued his path, delivering kisses and soft bites to Minho's chest, making him grunt in response. Jisung slid his fingers delicately over the shoulder muscles, down the collarbone, leaving wet kisses along the way. Jisung's lips followed the trail his hands traced, kissing every inch of Minho's skin. He left soft bites, combined with provocative licks, which made the alpha let out rough moans. When Jisung descended to Minho's chest, he continued exploring Minho's abdomen, his firm muscles slightly tense. The omega couldn't help but pay special attention to the navel area, nibbling the skin without causing pain and slowly moving closer to Minho's boner below. 

Jisung finally reached Minho's throbbing cock, which was aching with desire. The omega's tongue caressed the rigid length, causing the alpha to moan in agony. He used his tongue skillfully, teasing a series of louder moans from Minho, who, like Jisung earlier, was far from being silent. 

He alternated between gently sucking the glans and sliding his lips along the entire length, savoring the taste and the slight tremors in Minho's abdomen. He stayed that way for some time, teasing him until he placed as much as he could in his mouth, not as skillful as the alpha but managing to avoid choking. Minho groaned with pleasure, feeling the warmth and moisture of Jisung's mouth surrounding him, having to restrain himself from pushing Jisung's head down, wanting to experience everything the omega had to offer. 

Saliva dripped from the corners of his mouth as he tried to go a little deeper, reaching his limit. He continued, increasing the pace and pressure, making rhythmic movements that left Minho even more excited, pausing a few times to breathe properly, masturbating him with his hand during the breaks. 

As good as it felt, Minho wouldn't settle for this. He wanted more, just like Jisung was eager and impatient, he was greedy. During one of the pauses Jisung took, Minho touched his chin and gestured for him to come closer, being obeyed almost immediately. 

With their faces close, Minho took care of the hair sticking to Jisung's forehead and wiped the omega's chin, a provocative sight. His hungry gaze shifted between Jisung's large eyes and thin lips as he proposed: 

"How about getting on all fours, hm?" 

Jisung's eyes gleamed with desire, and he nodded with an equally desired expression on his face. He moved back slightly, dropping to his knees on the mattress and propping himself up on his elbows. He looked over his shoulder with a provocative glance, biting his lower lip. 

Minho, seeing Jisung in this position, wasted no time. He adjusted himself and moved closer to the omega, admiring the incredible view in front of him. The sight of Jisung's back was breathtaking, the soft skin illuminated by the soft bedroom light. Minho slid his hands over Jisung's curvaceous buttocks, gently squeezing them, feeling the soft texture and the firmness of the omega's body. With precision, he delivered a firm slap to the area, making Jisung recoil slightly in response but without complaining, which motivated Minho even more. 

Maintaining control of the situation, Minho delivered another, even stronger slap to the other cheek of Jisung, causing the omega to let out a louder moan. The way his fair skin turned red with the handprint was tantalizing. 

"Are you enjoying hitting me?" Jisung asked, the stinging sensation making him even hotter than he already was. 

"Do you want me to stop?" 

"That's not what I said." 

Since Jisung didn't have a good angle to see what was happening behind him, he almost toppled forward when he was invaded by two wet fingers, leaning his head slightly closer to the mattress and arching even more. 

Minho began to explore the inside of Jisung with his fingers, preparing the area for what was to come, feeling the texture and moisture, maintaining a steady and precise rhythm. He watched how Jisung writhed under his touch, requesting more with moans and some grinding movements, making it easier. 

After a while, making sure everything was ready, Minho removed his fingers and reached for the condom package he had placed on the edge of the bed when he removed their clothes. He was about to tear it open when he was interrupted by Jisung's needy voice. 

"Wait!" Jisung exclaimed, leaving the position he was in and sitting on the bed, facing the alpha. "I want your knot." 

"What?!" Minho's eyes widened in surprise at Jisung's unexpected request. 

"I want to feel what it's like to receive a..." Jisung was timid and embarrassed, a complete contrast to the image he normally portrayed. "Please..." He looked away, unable to meet Minho's eyes. 

"Do you know that for that, I can't use a condom, right?" 

Jisung nodded. 

"I'm clean, and besides, my heat is far from happening, it's not dangerous." 

Minho could decline if he didn't want to, he wasn't obliged to accept, but he couldn't bring himself to refuse. He knew he was being manipulated by his own wolf to comply with that request, the voice inside his head growling at him to make that bond that normally only couples did, and they were not a couple, no, they were enemies. 

"Are you sure about this?" He needed to be certain; he didn't want Jisung to regret it later, no matter how much he hated him. "This can hurt you." 

"I don't care." 

Minho nodded, setting the package aside and getting closer to the omega, who was about to return to the previous position but was stopped by Minho, who pressed on his hip. 

"Turn to your side; it will hurt less." 

Jisung nodded, simply adjusting a little because he was already close to that position. The alpha positioned himself properly behind him, guiding one of Jisung's legs for better access and looping one of his arms under Jisung's head along with the pillow to provide support. 

With a gentle touch, Minho initiated the act, moving slowly to ensure Jisung got used to it and minimize any discomfort. He could feel the warmth and tightness of Jisung's body surrounding him, which made him moan softly. It wasn't much different from what they had already done, but now, with direct contact, it was driving Minho wild because there was no longer that separation. 

He took the opportunity to kiss Jisung's neck while moving slowly, with a gradual back and forth motion that stirred the internal walls, taking on a steady pace as the moans of pleasure were exposed. 

Minho pressed Jisung's slim waist with his other hand, squeezing it as a sign that he would start moving more, thrusting harder. Jisung turned his torso slightly to look at Minho and put his hand on the alpha's hips, trying to push against him and looking into the alpha's face, an act that allowed them to kiss messily, making sounds against each other's lips. 

Minho deepened his thrusts, reaching an angle that made Jisung unable to touch his mouth anymore. He closed his eyes and relished the sensations coursing through his body. The hand that had been gripping his waist now moved to the neglected boner, providing additional stimulation. 

The characteristic swelling was already forming, signaling that Minho was close to cumming. Jisung couldn't be more eager for it, his pleasure increasing at the mere thought that soon that knot would be inside him. Unbeknownst to him, his inner wolf was ecstatic and rewarding him for this. 

Jisung moved the hand that had been on Minho's hip to the alpha's face, cupping his cheeks and then grabbing his hair, making it even messier. With a few more thrusts, directly targeting his pleasure point, Jisung's orgasm made his body tremble, shivers running down his spine as he experienced waves of ecstasy for the second time that night. He held onto Minho's hair and kissed him passionately, savoring every wave of pleasure that washed over him. 

Minho had expected this to happen, having learned how to read the omega's body's behavior and being prepared for it. He took advantage of the tight contractions during Jisung's cum to satisfy his excitement and finally secure the knot. The pressure of their climaxes allowed for a perfect fit, and he groaned amidst intense waves of pleasure, releasing his fluids inside the omega. 

Unlike the other days, both their pleasures were delayed by the knotting, with Jisung feeling strange but a good kind of strange. He had been prepared to feel pain, after all, he had never received a knot before, but what he felt was different; he felt complete. His insides were full and warm, sharing heat and space with the person he hated — or thought he hated. 

They could barely stand to look at each other without feeling the urge to kill each other, but there they were, staring deep into each other's eyes while the knot bound them. 

"How long...?" Jisung could hardly speak; he was panting. "How long will we be stuck like this?" 

"About fifteen minutes." 

"Hmm." Jisung grumbled, running his fingers through Minho's hair, twirling it around his fingers. "What do we do during that time?" 

Minho smiled slightly and leaned in, touching his lips to Jisung's, a serene kiss without haste. 

"Enjoy." He replied in a whisper. 

When the knot finally dissipated and that warm sensation it had brought faded, leaving them a bit groggy, they took a hot, pressurized gas shower together in Jisung's bathroom. Of course, this allowed them to have another round, but now without the knot, in the warm water. They weren't even in heat, but they could hardly stand not touching each other, making Jisung wonder how it would be if they were in heat. 

Afterward, they lay naked in bed after changing the sheets, tired and drowsy. They weren't cuddling, just looking at each other. 

Jisung was curious about something; he already had an idea of what the answer would be, but he asked anyway: 

"Have you done this before?" Minho nodded. "How many times?" Jisung inquired. 

"Just with my ex-husband," Minho replied honestly. 

Ex-husband...  

"I didn't know you had been married," Jisung remarked. 

"I'm not sure if you can even call it a marriage. It only lasted two weeks," Minho explained. 

Jisung arched an eyebrow, surprised by the revelation. 

"Two weeks? Are you that insufferable that you couldn't last a month?" He took the opportunity to taunt Minho. 

Minho sighed, ignoring the teasing and explained, "Different ideals. He wanted kids, and I didn't. I was young and wanted to focus on my career." 

"Wow, you're really old, to the point where you've been married," Jisung mocked. 

Minho rolled his eyes. "Idiot." It wasn't much of an insult. "Speaking of which, how many people have you slept with?" 

"You won't believe it," Jisung teased. "Three, including you." 

"Am I your third?" 

"Yeah." 

"I thought you were more experienced." 

"I'm more reserved than you think," Jisung joked. "I only had one boyfriend in high school and another in college. But he broke up with me when I started gaining popularity on the internet, claiming that 'a respectable omega shouldn't expose themselves on social media!'" Jisung imitated his voice with a tone of mockery and disgust. 

"He's an idiot." 

"Totally," Jisung laughed. "Changbin said the same thing when I told him." 

"What is Changbin to you, anyway?" Minho asked, curious. 

"It seems like my manager. We met during culinary school, but he dropped out before graduating. After I went viral on the internet, he started helping me with all those insane numbers. I don't know if I would have made it this far without him." 

Minho nodded. "You two seem really close." 

"He's like a brother from another mother," Jisung said, not realizing he had a smile on his face and Minho was analyzing his expressions. 

Jisung was about to continue the conversation but stopped when he heard a different sound, specifically the gate to the house being opened. He hurried to the window, opened the curtain, and saw Changbin's car parked right in front. 

"Oh, no, no, no," Jisung was in a panic. "He wasn't supposed to be here!" 

Minho sat on the bed, looking at Jisung in confusion. "What's wrong?" 

Jisung quickly dressed, still in a state of agitation, and Minho did the same, putting on at least his pants. 

"For some reason, Changbin decided to come here," Jisung grabbed Minho's missing clothes and threw them at him. "You need to get out of here, fast!" 

When he heard the front door being unlocked, Jisung became even more desperate. "I can hide in the closet," Minho suggested. 

Jisung approached the alpha and sniffed him. "Your scent isn't that weak; he'll notice you're here!" 

Then, he looked back at the window, and Minho understood the message. "No! No!" Lee protested, taking a few steps back. "I won't jump out the window!" 

"There's no other way!" 

Jisung tried to persuade Minho once more, but the alpha still seemed reluctant and concerned about the idea of jumping through the window. 

"Jisung?" Changbin's voice echoed through the house. He found it strange that the lights were on and there was what seemed to be dinner preparations in the kitchen. "Are you asleep?" 

"You don't have time for this. Go, quickly!" Jisung insisted, almost desperate. 

With not many options left, Minho accepted his fate, went to the window, and looked at the drop he'd have to face. It wasn't that high, but it was still scary. In a quick move so as not to back out, he jumped through the window, landing on the ground with a slight impact. Jisung ran to the window and looked down, and Minho gave him a thumbs up to indicate that he was fine, at least ninety percent intact. 

The way he jumped wasn't the best; he was sure he'd limp for the next few days. Minho took the opportunity to put on his shoes only when he felt the cold night air on his exposed abdomen, unfortunately, he was still barefoot. 

"Jisung?" Changbin entered the room, noticing how the younger one smiled at him and adjusted his oversized hoodie, as if trying to hide something (his neck marks). "Is everything okay?" 

"Yes! Yes!" he wasn't good at disguising. 

"You were working out, weren't you?" accused Changbin, and Jisung ended up conceding. "I saw that your heart rate and calorie loss increased; I've told you to rest!" 

Damn Apple Watch that he forgot to take off. 

"Oh, hyung, you know how much I like to exercise!" he pouted. "Why did you come back?" 

"I came to get some things." he glanced around the room before approaching the door. "I'm leaving now; make sure not to exert yourself too much!" 

"Alright!" 

Jisung sighed in relief as soon as Changbin left the room, grabbing his phone and sending a "Until next time" message to Minho. He wouldn't admit it, but he was smiling when he sent the message. 

As Changbin left the house, he had a mischievous smile on his face; he had seen the extra shoe at the entrance. After putting his things in the car, he got in the car and saw Seungmin laughing. 

"What's going on?" Changbin asked, passing him the seatbelt so they could leave. 

"You won't believe who I saw leaving the house," Seungmin said, still chuckling. 

"Does he wear size 263 shoes?" Changbin guessed. 

"Exactly." 

They laughed together. "These two are hopeless, aren't they?" Seungmin commented, stopping his laughter. 

Changbin agreed, starting the car and driving away, heading to Seungmin's apartment. 

The charity event was taking place at a luxury hotel in the upscale area of Seoul, filled with high-profile guests and the country's top chefs, handpicked for the occasion. Jisung had to thank Changbin for the restful week he had taken because he felt refreshed and more enthusiastic, or perhaps it was an aftereffect of the night he spent with Minho the previous week. 

He could still feel those sensations, those touches, the way his mind was while receiving the alpha's knot. He thought about how he had never experienced something like that before and now wanted it again. 

In addition to the reproductive advantages, such as offspring generation, receiving a knot was also rewarding. The bodies of both parties were flooded with a true explosion of hormones where everything reached its peak. Sometimes, the orgasm was so intense it could cause pain, and afterward, it brought an extraordinary sense of relief, leaving them disoriented from reality, much more sensitive, and with their minds on another planet, as if they were high, until the knot deflated. There were risks involved, but in the end, it might be worth it. Of course, outside an omega's heat period, the chance of conceiving a child was almost nonexistent, especially if the mating season was far off. 

They had exchanged some messages since that night, but it was all teasing and insults back and forth. Their chat was filled with "Go to hell" and "Get lost." He wanted to ask Minho to visit again, but he was embarrassed because he had made him jump out the window and asked for something as intimate as receiving the knot. Jisung was cheeky, but sometimes his shyness got the better of him. 

The charity event in question was a dinner to raise funds for the aid of the victims of a typhoon-caused disaster in Jeju. Although the typhoon hadn't been devastating, it had caused enough damage to leave the island's residents in need of help. As one of the country's most talked-about chefs, if not the most, his presence attracted attention, especially since he would be contributing to the kitchen. 

He hoped to find some familiar faces in the kitchen, and Minho was one of them. 

"It surprises me that they didn't put you as a dishwasher," Minho commented as he approached Jisung, who was focused on his work. 

Jisung heard Minho's comment but chose not to be affected by the provocation. 

"Should I assume you're working as a waiter tonight?" Jisung retorted. 

Minho chuckled. 

"Didn't you pay attention to the team's names? I'm the head chef." He put a hand on Jisung's shoulder and spoke closer to him. "Make sure you don't mess up, and who knows, maybe I'll reward you later." 

Jisung maintained his serious expression at the information. He only glanced sideways at the alpha, who walked away with a mischievous smile, albeit limping slightly. 

Working in the kitchen of a charity event was much more exhausting than in a busy restaurant in downtown Seoul. Jisung could feel his legs growing tired from standing for so long, his hands rough from handling, and his clothes sticking to him because of the kitchen's heat. 

He looked at the clock and saw that the next dish was almost on schedule, thinking that only a few more and he could go home. 

"Jisung-ssi," one of his coworkers, an older chef with years of experience, approached. "You look worn out. Take a break; we won't need much manpower for the next two dishes." 

"Really, sunbae?" Jisung asked, wanting to make sure that resting for a bit would be useful. 

His colleague nodded. "Yes, go get some fresh air. You've been doing a good job so far; no need to wear yourself out." 

"Thank you very much," he bowed almost completely and left the kitchen, heading to the backyard to get some fresh air. 

Once he reached the backyard, Jisung put his hands on his head, feeling it throb more than usual; stress was slowly killing him. He took a deep breath, feeling the gentle breeze against his sweaty skin. It was a relief to be away from the kitchen's hustle and bustle. 

He spent a few minutes there, resting his body and mind until he thought he was ready to return to action. He walked back inside and, as he approached the kitchen, he found Minho, but he wasn't alone. 

Minho was talking to a same  heightand elegant omega. The omega wasn't wearing blockers and was in a tight suit, which indicated that he was probably one of the guests at the charity event. Upon closer inspection, Jisung could see that it was Lee Felix, a young chaebol known for his philanthropic activities, modeling and his love for cooking, despite being outside the culinary industry. 

Jisung was going to pass by, but as he approached and neither of the two had noticed— he was in another corridor—, one sentence made Han stop in his tracks. 

"I miss you, hyung," there was a hint of sadness in his voice. 

Minho hesitated for a moment before responding, "I miss you too, Yongbok." 

A wave of discomfort and uncertainty washed over Jisung. He couldn't completely understand what he was feeling, but there was a sense of unease in his mind, something bothering him. He shook his head, wondering why he was eavesdropping on that conversation, which was clearly between Minho and his ex-husband. It was none of his business, after all, he shouldn't be affected by something that didn't involve him. 

With this thought in mind, he left that place and went to the kitchen, not wanting to hear the rest of the conversation: 

"But we're not the same as back then. What we had was beautiful, a good passion, but it had its time," Minho tried to be gentle with his words. 

"We were young, hyung, immature, I didn't really understand what you meant at the time, but I do now," Felix continued, looking down. "We have our careers made, we can pick up where we left off," he approached, taking the alpha's hands, which he quickly pulled away. 

"Sorry, Yongbok," Minho took a step back. "But it's not possible. I can love you, but we wouldn't work out again." 

Felix sighed, defeated. 

"Alright, maybe you're right," he fixed his blond hair and looked at Minho. "You have my number, you know how to reach me if you change your mind. You must be busy with this event; I won't bother you." Felix was trying to hide his disappointment, leaving before Minho could say goodbye. 

"I won't." Minho muttered to himself, thinking about what the omega said regarding "changing his mind." 

In the kitchen, Jisung returned to the culinary chaos but now in better shape than before thanks to his temporary rest. He tried to ignore the words echoing in his mind, feeling a growing hatred. Perhaps he was hating Minho even more than before. 

Jisung was preparing one of the dishes to be served in the next round when he heard some coworkers murmuring. He looked in the direction they were looking and saw Felix, who had been talking to Minho a little while ago, just like all the other employees, he got into a respectful position. 

Felix was the son of the event's host, who owned a prestigious hotel chain. He loved the culinary aspect, and he personally inspected this part of the events and the hotel's kitchen; he was the one who had chosen the brigade that would serve the event's guests. 

"You're doing a great job, everyone," Felix said, raising his voice so everyone could hear. "You can keep going; I don't want to interrupt you!" 

However, Felix looked in Jisung's direction, who was going back to what he was doing earlier. The omega only realized that Lee had approached when he felt the scent of hazelnut very close, it was difficult to smell it more clearly because of all the dishes being prepared. 

"Han Jisung, isn't it?" he asked, ignoring the name tag on Han's chest, just wanting a way to start the conversation. 

It was strange to look at Felix and know that he had been married to Minho. 

"Yes, sir," he replied in a timid tone, with his head down in a sign of respect. 

"Your performances on Chef's Kingdom are impressive." 

"Thank you, sir," he tried not to show his tension. 

"I'm interested in your Japchae," Felix continued. "If it's not a bother, I'd love for you to make one for me." 

"Are you referring to now?" 

"Yes." 

"Oh, sir, it would be an honor, but I need to check with Chef Lee." 

"You can do it, Han," Minho startled the younger omega when he joined the conversation. He didn't have a very good look on the other omega in question. "Fulfill Mr. Lee Felix's requests; don't delay." 

"Yes, sir," he made a quick bow and did what was asked, but before that, he took a quick look at Minho. 

Felix furrowed his brows when he saw how Minho was looking at Jisung. He had seen the two interacting, but seeing it in person was different from the screens. 

Jisung prepared the Japchae with his usual dedication, making sure the dish was perfect because he was serving one of the most important guests of the evening. When the dish was ready, he personally served it to Felix in the main hall. 

Upon tasting the Japchae prepared by Jisung, Felix was surprised by an explosion of flavors. He widened his eyes in amazement, feeling emotional due to the incredible taste of the dish. 

"This is amazing!" he exclaimed but without making a fuss. "Jisung-ssi, after this dish, I'm looking forward to the opening of your restaurant." 

Despite the compliment, Jisung didn't feel gratified; he wasn't proud or satisfied. It was strange. 

"Thank you very much, Mr. Lee Felix," he replied, maintaining a respectful tone, but not very excited. "It will be a pleasure to have you at the restaurant for the grand opening." 

He should feel good, proud, but he wasn't, looking at Felix's face was strange, conflicting. 

The event continued to drain all of Jisung's energy, and when it finally ended, he felt completely exhausted. The duties of a charity event were truly draining, especially for someone like him, still a novice. 

With the kitchen finally organized, Jisung realized that it was already dawn. He knew that finding a taxi at that hour would be a challenge and considered calling Changbin to ask for a ride, but he gave up the moment he thought that the beta would curse him with every possible name for disturbing his sleep. 

"Do you want a ride?" Minho offered, swinging the car keys in a friendly manner, but Jisung was still recovering from exhaustion, and his frustration with Minho was only growing. 

Jisung accepted but wasn't in the mood for a conversation. For half the journey, he remained silent, thinking about how exhausting the day had been and how Minho seemed to bother him more than usual. 

Minho found the lack of jabs and provocations strange. When he stopped the car at a red light, he touched Jisung's forehead, checking his temperature. Jisung was startled and quickly removed Minho's hand from his forehead. 

"What are you doing?" 

"Checking if you have a fever," Minho tried again but received a slap on the hand, groaning in response to the pain. "Ouch! No need to be aggressive!" He pulled back and massaged his hand. 

Jisung looked at Minho, still frustrated and with an intense gaze. 

"I don't need your concern. Just take me home." His voice came out firmer than usual; he crossed his arms and looked in the opposite direction. 

"Touchy." Minho muttered and drove off once the light turned green. 

"Go to hell!" Jisung retaliated, showing that he was really stressed. 

"It seems like you're back to normal." Minho mocked, focusing on the road. 

"Park the car." Jisung ordered, not caring if they were in the center of Seoul. 

"What?! No!" Minho focused on the road ahead. "We're almost there; calm your nerves!" 

"Park the car!" He raised his voice. 

The alpha, surprised by the intensity of the command, decided to comply. Quickly, he parked the car near the curb, not turning off the engine and turning back to face Jisung. 

He didn't have much time to react; Jisung was quick to climb onto Minho's lap and sit right on his hips, already without anything on his lower half—he took advantage of Minho's distraction in finding a place to park the car to remove his underwear. 

"But what the-" 

“Tell me, Minho.” Jisung wasn't pleased; you could see the hatred in his dark eyes. “How good am I to you?” He didn't need formalities, foreplay; he wanted to be direct, and Minho understood this when Jisung struggled to unbuckle his belt in the position they were in. “Don't answer.” This made the alpha swallow hard; he had never seen Jisung so enraged, not even when they exchanged countless insults. 

Jisung wasn't interested in prolonging the conversation. His anger and frustration towards Minho seemed to suddenly explode, and he wanted to channel that energy into something. With the belt finally unbuckled, he pushed down Minho's pants, revealing the forming boner, aiding the process by stimulating it with his hands. 

Jisung guided Minho into him roughly, without preparation or waiting for slick to take effect, causing both to grunt. There was no gentleness in his actions, only an urgency to demonstrate his skill and strength. He rode Minho with hunger, his hands gripping the alpha's shoulders while staring at him with a challenging gaze. 

He wanted to prove that he was good enough, that he was desired, that he was irreplaceable, even if his approach was loaded with anger and jealousy— the latter he would never admit. 

Even feeling discomfort from the dryness, Jisung exerted himself in riding with mastery, gripping Minho's nape with one hand as he moved up and down, swaying, dancing on that cock, caring little if he might be perceived as aggressive. 

Minho placed his hands on his waist, following the movements and not holding back his sounds, delighting in the incredible pleasure being provided. After a certain time in these intense motions, Jisung could already sense the classic sign that Minho was close to come. 

“Who's better, Minho?” he asked without stopping for a second, analyzing how Lee's facial expressions showed he was loving it. 

His clouded mind couldn't fully process the omega's question. 

“Huh?” he responded in a moan, his voice filled with lust and difficulty maintaining focus, getting lost in those sensations. 

“Who's better?” he repeated the question, his voice husky as he slowed down his movements, denying Minho his orgasm. “Me or him?” 

Minho couldn't articulate coherent words in that state. He tried to understand who "he" was, but his mind had no room for that. His breathing was heavy, his body responding intensely to Jisung's dominance, and in an attempt to get back to the previous rhythm, he mumbled between moans: 

“You... Ahn... it's you... it's only you...” he was practically begging to be allowed to come. 

Jisung smiled at the response and resumed the previous rhythm, the alpha's fingers digging into his slender waist. Minho savored all those electric shocks that became even more intense when Jisung, in a stronger movement, fitted the alpha's knot inside him, letting him unravel completely throughout. 

Jisung didn't came, but he had that rewarding sensation that was already gratifying. Seeing Minho desperate to cum was something he didn't imagine he would enjoy so much. He leaned back carefully to avoid hitting the steering wheel behind him and observed how the alpha became even more beautiful with that glow. 

When Minho returned to being a little rational, he looked at Jisung and realized he hadn't came, which bothered him; he didn't like being selfish. So, without warning, he grabbed the still excited omega's penis, initially massaging the glans with his fingers to start a gradually increasing handjob. 

The fact that the knot was pulsating inside him, deflating slowly and leaving his mind messy, made Jisung come without much ceremony, dirtying both of their clothes, squeezing Minho, making him roll his eyes in the meantime. 

One of the things the alpha liked to see was how the omega's hips behaved during that climax, trembling and making that little tattoo near the hip sway. Taking advantage of Jisung being in front of him and taking a while to get out of his lap due to the knot, Minho ran his finger over that hidden tattoo, feeling privileged to know of its existence. 

Maybe it was the hormones released during that time they were stuck, but Minho was enchanted by how Jisung looked beautiful, panting, with his hair stuck to his forehead. He wondered if they didn't have all the rivalry and hatred, if they wouldn't make a good couple, if they could be together and have a family because their relationship was just that: hate and sex. 

But what the hell was he thinking? He didn't want to be a father, having pups was out of the question for his life. Damn intrusive thoughts from his wolf, which was crazy about the omega's wolf. 

[...]

A little before the trip to Busan, Changbin took a few days off, claiming he was going to visit family in Yongin, which left Jisung without much concern about having to kick Minho out of his house again. Now the alpha could stay there for a longer time. Minho was also alone; Seungmin took days off because of his heat, leaving him with plenty of free time. The fact that they didn't have to answer to the managers left them carefree. 

With that, Jisung had his face pressed into the mattress, his hips raised high, rolling his tearful eyes with pleasure as Minho thrust into him with strength and desire. Maybe they were addicted to this because they couldn't be in the same space without taking off their clothes and sticking their bodies together. 

And whenever they finished, they were incredibly sticky. Sometimes hugging, kissing, sometimes just caressing each other; they were changing the dynamics of fucking and turning away from each other, but if they slept, they ended up together in the end. 

Jisung was scrolling through his phone while Minho rested his face on his abdomen, sometimes kissing and other times just listening to the omega's internal organs when he pressed his ear. 

“Hmm, that gossip channel posted a video analyzing our interactions.” Jisung commented, looking at the social media posts. “‘Genuine hatred or misunderstood love?’" he read the video title with a humorous tone. 

“What do you think?” Minho rested his chin on Jisung's belly, looking at the omega who lowered the phone to also look at him. 

They had to analyze the situation carefully: they were completely naked, in Jisung's bed, glued to each other, covered in marks from one of the intense sessions they had. 

“I would say it's accumulated lust with hatred.” Jisung replied, running his hand through Minho's hair and down to his face, caressing his cheek. “I hate you so much.” 

“I hate you even more.” 

It was strange that they were smiling while declaring hatred for each other. 

The lúpus gave a kiss on Jisung's abdomen and went down; the omega already knew what he was planning, so he just turned off the phone and put it aside, letting Minho do whatever he wanted with him. 

The trip to Busan arrived. Changbin was helping Jisung pack his bags; he would stay longer than expected to visit his parents—and return in time for the restaurant opening, so he needed enough clothes. 

"Are you sure you won't come with?" Jisung asked once again as Changbin parked in front of the airport. 

"I wasn't born glued to you," he sounded gruff, but that was just his way. "You're grown up enough to travel alone," he tapped Jisung's head as if he were a child. 

"Hyung, I don't know what I'll do without you!" He pouted and clung to Changbin's arm, hugging him while still inside the car. 

The beta rolled his eyes with a smile on his face. 

"Come on! Or you'll miss the flight!" He pretended to be difficult. 

"Boring!" Jisung joked, giving a quick kiss on the beta's cheek. He got out of the car and grabbed his bags. With everything in hand, he was about to enter the airport when Changbin rolled down the car window and shouted: 

"Call me when you arrive!" 

"I won't remember!" And he wouldn't, Changbin would have to check Jisung's location. 

He slept almost the entire trip, having to be awakened by the flight attendants when they landed in Busan. Jisung picked up his bags from the carousel after getting off the plane, and when he turned around, pulling out his phone to order a taxi, he bumped into someone standing right behind him. 

"Ouch!" He almost dropped his phone. When he looked at the person he had bumped into, he could see Minho wearing sunglasses. He only recognized him because that mouth was unique. "Watch where you're going!" 

Minho laughed, taking Jisung's suitcase from his hand. 

"We're in the same hotel; let's go together." He hadn't even greeted; he just walked away with Han's suitcase in his hand. 

He was going to protest but gave up, following Minho to the car he had called. They didn't talk during the drive to the hotel, which happened to be Felix's family hotel. Jisung was quite sensitive regarding the chaebol omega. 

They arrived at the hotel, picked up their things, went through the standard check-in process, and took the elevator together, all in a deadly silence. They exited on the same floor and went to their rooms, which were side by side. The show's production was motivated to bring them together in some way—they just hadn't met on the plane because Minho upgraded his ticket to first class. 

The first thing Minho did when entering the room was to put his things in a corner and take a shower. There was nothing better than taking a good hot bath after a plane trip. He came out of the shower with a towel around his waist and went to look for some clothes to wear. However, he heard a few knocks on the door, catching his attention. 

He went to the door and looked through the peephole, smiling when he saw who it was. He didn't care that he was only in a towel; he opened the door and leaned against it, facing Jisung, who had Minho's sunglasses in his hand—he had forgotten them at the hotel reception. 

Jisung wasn't very surprised; it was nothing he hadn't seen before, but even after seeing that body naked so many times, the bulge in the towel still caught his attention. 

"You forgot your sunglasses," he reached out to hand them over. 

"Hmm, thanks." He took the glasses and was about to go back into the hotel room, but Jisung prevented the door from being closed with his foot. 

The omega looked around the hallway, checking if there was anyone there, and, having free rein, entered Minho's room, closing the door behind him and leaving the alpha standing in front of him. 

"I thought you weren't coming in," Minho teased. 

"Shut up," he advanced on him, grabbing the alpha's neck and starting a clumsy and needy kiss, their mouths colliding in a way that their teeth ended up clashing. 

The sudden closeness and impulsive kiss caught Minho by surprise, causing the sunglasses in his hands to fall to the floor as they ended up on Jisung's waist, pulling him closer. 

His shirt was ripped off and thrown to the ground, exposing his strong chest. Minho wanted to distribute his kisses around the area, but he didn't have time because Jisung was pushing him towards the center of the room. When they reached the bed, he pushed Minho forcefully, making him fall back onto the mattress, a bit disoriented by the exerted force. 

Jisung knelt in front of him, hastily pulling off the towel and freeing the boner that had formed, licking his lips as if he were about to savor his favorite dish. 

He didn't hesitate to approach and gently run his tongue along the length, causing shivers. He planted kisses and took the tip into his mouth, sliding down as far as he could and repeating the movements slowly. He could feel Minho getting harder in his mouth, and that excited him, knowing he was doing a great job. 

The alpha gripped the sheets, his knuckles turning white with pressure; that mouth was driving him crazy in every way. Jisung alternated between gentle and slow movements, sliding his tongue up and down, focusing on every inch of the length. 

Minho was in a state of ecstasy, eyes closed, and moaning softly because the hotel walls were thin. Jisung slid deeper and, when he allowed the boner to touch his throat again, Minho moaned loudly, gripping the omega's hair, begging for more. He wanted that sensation again, even if not for long, and forced Jisung to repeat the movement, not so strongly to give the omega some control—he wouldn't force him into anything. 

He endured it, tears forming in his eyes from the pressure, and his jaw aching from keeping his mouth open for so long, but he didn't protest; he liked it. With the rhythms set by the alpha, it didn't take long for Minho to come in his mouth, feeling the warmth of Minho's semen and the pulsation of his boner as the alpha moaned and enjoyed the pleasure, filling his mouth. Jisung withdrew a bit early, causing some jets to land on his face, almost hitting one of his eyes. 

After swallowing and licking his lips, Jisung didn't seem very happy with the outcome. 

"What's wrong?" the older one asked, panting and recovering. If Jisung didn't clean that mark on his cheek and what was dripping from the corner of his mouth, Minho was sure he would fuck him that way. 

"You almost hit my eye!" he complained, visibly upset. 

"It's your fault for pulling away! Not my fault!" the older one tried to defend himself. 

"Fine," he grumbled and stood up, promptly sitting on Minho's lap and resting his elbows on the shoulders. 

"Better clean up now before it gets annoying to deal with," Minho adjusted Jisung in his lap to make them more comfortable, taking the opportunity to run his thumb across Jisung's chin and clean a bit of what was there. 

"We have all day for that," the program finale wouldn't be until the next day. "Besides, it's good for the skin." 

"Where did you read that?" Minho had to hold back a laugh. 

"On the internet," Jisung brought their faces closer, angling as if about to initiate a kiss. "If it's on the internet, it's true." 

Minho chuckled at the assertion. 

They were about to kiss when there was a knock on the door, causing Jisung to jump up. They acted quickly; the omega went to hide in the bathroom, and Minho put on a robe, answering the door. 

The person standing there wasn't who Minho wanted to see at this moment, especially considering the glance he received because of the robe. 

"What are you doing here?" the alpha questioned. 

"I came to wish you good luck on tomorrow's show," Felix had a short, half-smile. "Jisung is a tough opponent." 

Subtly hearing his name being mentioned, Jisung pressed his ear against the door to listen, but he could barely hear anything. 

"Yes, he is," Minho wanted to end that conversation as quickly as possible. "Did you come here just to say that?" 

"Can I come in?" 

"Not a good time." 

"Ah, alright," Felix seemed suspicious. "Anyway, my father is here at the hotel, and you know how much he likes you. He wants to see you." 

Minho had a good relationship with his former father-in-law despite the adversities and pressure from Felix's family during the engagement and the short marriage. It was expected that he would be there to see the final in person with his son. 

"Now?" the alpha asked, not very enthusiastic. 

"Yes. Can you make it?" 

Despite being able to refuse, one of Minho's flaws was that he sometimes couldn't say no. 

"Give me five minutes. I don't think he wants to see me in a robe." 

"We're in the restaurant. See you there." Felix bowed before Minho closed the door and returned to the room. 

The alpha ran his hand through his hair and knocked on the bathroom door a few times, which Jisung opened—taking the opportunity to clean his face—looking at him curiously. He tried to eavesdrop on the conversation but couldn't. 

"I'll need to go out. We'll continue later, okay?" 

Jisung pouted, disappointed that they couldn't continue at that moment. 

"Do you really have to?" His voice was equally pouty, an attempt at manipulation. 

"Yes. Sorry." Minho ran his hand through Jisung's hair, tousling it. "Take the opportunity to rest; you look tired." Without realizing it, he ended up advising the person he would face the next day. 

The omega agreed and left Minho's room, returning to his own next door. 

[…]

Jisung decided to spend time in the hotel's gym, completing his entire workout circuit, focusing on arm exercises. He checked his phone from time to time—almost every minute—to see if Minho had sent any messages, but there was no sign of the alpha, making him anxious. 

He could sense some people looking at him; it wasn't so common for an omega to dedicate so much to having a more robust physique, and alphas, for the most part, felt uncomfortable with a strong omega. 

He stayed in the gym until it was almost closing time, returning to his room where he took a good shower before heading out to the restaurant; his stomach ached from hunger since he hadn't eaten anything since he arrived. 

Upon entering the restaurant, Jisung quickly noticed Minho sitting at a round table filled with food in the background. He thought about sending a message or even sitting with him, caring little if he was invited or not. However, as he took another step, he could see Felix together with an elderly man who couldn't stop smiling, happy. Minho didn't seem much different. 

He wasn't naive; he knew that the elderly man was the hotel chain owner and consequently Felix's father, which shook him a bit. Especially when Felix, who sat next to Minho, touched the alpha's shoulder and said something with a radiant smile; the alpha smiled along while talking to the other two. 

Jisung shouldn't be feeling that discomfort again, distressed by seeing the scene of Minho with his ex-husband and ex-father-in-law. Especially because Minho seemed comfortable at the table, and he and Felix really looked like a couple. 

"Good evening, sir," a hotel attendant approached Jisung, catching his attention. "Would you like to take a look at our menu? We have everything from Korean to international cuisine." 

Jisung quickly glanced back at the table where Minho was, and now he saw him laughing about something, closer to Felix than before. 

"No, thank you. I'm just passing through," he turned his gaze back to the attendant. 

Jisung left the restaurant; he had lost his appetite. He didn't want to go back to his room because he wasn't sleepy, and he knew that if he went back, he would get bored. So, to clear his mind, he went to the hotel's rooftop, where there was an infinity pool. Since it was nighttime, almost at closing time for shared spaces, Jisung found the area empty. 

He could have a beautiful view of Busan, the beachfront, and the beautiful buildings, although not as many as in Seoul. He sat on the edge of the pool after taking off his shoes, dipping his exposed shins—since he was wearing shorts—in the refreshing water. The water was slightly heated, making the sensation even more pleasant. He closed his eyes for a moment, feeling the cold breeze contrasting with the water on his skin. 

Being in Busan was comforting, the city where he had lived for half of his life. He had so many good memories; it was there that he had his first love and decided he wanted to be a chef, giving up everything he knew and loved to pursue his dream, going to Seoul and spending nights in restaurants as a dishwasher until he got where he was. 

His parents didn't want their only son to go so far, especially for a dream they didn't know would come true, especially his mother, who was more conservative. Jisung grew up hearing that he shouldn't exert himself too much and should just find an alpha to support him, but he didn't want that. He wanted to be independent and follow his destiny. It wasn't a surprise that he and his mother clashed, not speaking since Jisung moved to Seoul just over four years ago. He still kept in touch with his father, who always supported him in secret to avoid conflicts with the matriarch. He thought that if he went back home, showing his certificates, achievements, his mother might recognize him, and perhaps, attend the restaurant's opening next week. 

He looked at the sky, seeing some stars and constellations, not many, but more than he could see in Seoul. He missed this, one of the many things his move took away from him. 

"You'll catch a cold like this," Minho's voice startled him from behind. 

Jisung turned to look at the alpha, almost smiling to see that he was there, responding, "I thought you were busy." 

Minho shrugged, approaching and sitting beside Jisung at the edge of the pool, also dipping half of his legs into the water, soaking his pants. 

"Are you going to visit your parents after the show?" Minho asked casually, making Jisung furrow his brow in confusion. 

"How do you know?" 

"Your accent," he leaned back on his hands, slightly inclined. "You try to disguise it, but it's noticeable." 

Jisung frowned, surprised by Minho's sharp observation. 

"You're very attentive, aren't you?" 

"More than you think." 

Jisung sighed, lips slightly curved into a smile, looking at the pool water. 

"Yeah, I was thinking about visiting them. It's been a while." 

Minho nodded. 

"They must miss you." 

"I don't know." Jisung splashed his feet in the water. "My mom probably doesn't even want to see my face." There was a melancholic tone in his voice. 

"Why?" Minho looked at him, sensing how sad the omega seemed. 

"She doesn't like what I've become," he sighed. 

"It's not very common to see omegas like you, full of tattoos and an aggressive temperament." 

Jisung turned his gaze back to the alpha, feeling offended. 

"Are you calling me a delinquent?" 

"Well, if the shoe fits," Minho shrugged, amused by it. 

"Oh, really, say it again." 

"If the shoe fits," he made a point to spell it out. 

What the alpha didn't expect was that Jisung would push him into the pool; the omega was strong enough to do it with one hand. Water splashed everywhere when Minho fell into the pool, and he emerged, coughing. 

"Son of a bitch!" he cursed, pushing wet hair from his face. 

Jisung laughed as Minho glared at him. 

"You're a bit wet now," Jisung teased between laughs. 

Minho approached Jisung in the pool and, unnoticed by the omega, pulled him into the water, making Han completely soaked. 

"Bastard!" Jisung retaliated with a curse, and now it was Jisung who had to push wet hair from his face while Minho laughed. 

A water war ensued between them that lasted a few minutes, each trying to provoke the other. When they stopped with the water jets, they were close enough for Lee's hands to find Jisung's waist, both bodies in the water, only shoulder and above visible. The younger's hands were on the alpha's neck and shoulder, gently massaging the area. 

Silence fell, and the pool water calmed down; their intense gazes locked onto each other. Jisung found himself lost in Minho's eyes, which became even more beautiful with the pool and city lights illuminating his face. 

And then he realized, in that moment when his heart seemed to skip a beat, that something was different. That tension, the heat, the discomfort he felt before, the butterflies in his stomach... 

No, he couldn't be feeling that. It was surreal. 

And when Minho leaned in to kiss him, he didn't pull away, even though he denied what he felt. An innocent, simple kiss, completely opposite to the others they had experienced, which were full of desire and need. Lips moving slowly and precisely in the middle of that night pool in a luxury hotel in Busan, as if that moment were made for them. 

Even when they deepened the kiss, it remained slow and with a hint of something they hadn't experienced before. No desperate hands, confused tongues, and unrestrained chaos. It was just them. 

They stayed there for a while just enjoying each other's company until they heard a noise from the opposite side of the pool, forcing them to separate for fear that someone might see them. After grabbing some towels and removing the excess water from their clothes, they went to their rooms. They didn't end the night together because they needed to rest for the next day, but that didn't stop them from lying down thinking about. 

The day of the program’s finale recording finally arrived; it would be a live broadcast streamed on social media and on the television channel where Chef's Kingdom aired. Everyone was getting ready and Jisung was having his makeup done, only a few final touches left before they could begin. 

However, all that powder on his face was bothering Jisung, making his stomach churn. He wasn’t usually bothered by makeup, used to the basics for performing on social media, but that day it was becoming real torture. 

He excused himself from the makeup artist and hurried to the bathroom, locking the door as soon as he entered and emptying everything he had eaten for breakfast into the toilet. He had felt nauseous when he woke up, but since his stomach had been empty, nothing happened at the time. 

Afterward, he went to the sink and almost threw up there too, but there was nothing left to bring up. Because of that, he ended up feeling hungry, eating a few things from the buffet before returning to makeup, focusing on light foods that wouldn’t cause nausea. 

But it was no use; minutes later he was heading back to the same bathroom to throw everything up again. Something was wrong with him, maybe it was some strong flu he caught the night before at the pool, or maybe it was the change of air from Seoul to Busan; he couldn’t say, but whatever it was couldn’t ruin his competition. 

He finally managed to finish his makeup and they were about to go live when Jisung noticed the presence of the blond with the deep voice. Even if it wasn’t his business, seeing him there made him feel mortal hatred, stronger than last time — which was clearly jealousy. Jisung was still curious to know what Minho and Yongbok had been smiling about the night before and, as they approached each other there in the studio, they still wore smiles on their faces. 

Jisung wasn’t discreet in staring at the two former partners talking as if they were no longer former partners, but he had to look away when a staff member lightly touched his shoulder. 

"Mr. Han," the tall beta staff member called subtly. "May I speak with you in private?" 

"You can say it here." there was nothing that needed to be hidden. 

"Mr. Han, I believe you would prefer it to be in private." she insisted, and Jisung agreed with a nod, following the staff member to a private room. 

Minho couldn’t help but notice the movement, curious as to why, but he had to set it aside when Yongbok drew his attention back to their conversation. 

Upon entering the room, which looked like a small reception area, the staff member handed him the envelope she was holding. Jisung frowned, not understanding immediately. 

"Was there some change in the contract?" 

"That’s not it, Mr. Han." she swallowed nervously. "As you know, our team performs a blood test for everyone who will appear on screen as a health protocol." 

Jisung raised an eyebrow; maybe that explained his sudden nausea. 

"Is there something bad in my tests?" 

"Yes— I mean, no, it’s not necessarily something bad depending on the point of view." 

Jisung opened the envelope and took out the paper with all the exams done from the collected blood sample, skimming quickly through some data that wasn’t his field. 

To a layperson, the data appeared normal and similar to what he had seen before, except for one that was drawing particular attention. 

"I don’t know if you were aware, since it’s still very early and-" 

"Wait a second." Jisung interrupted, all that suspense was irritating him. "What are you talking about?" 

"Your pregnancy." 

The omega’s heart raced so fast he felt like it might jump out of his chest, freezing briefly as he tried to process what he had heard. 

"Is this some kind of prank?" 

"Oh, I see you didn’t know." she muttered under her breath. "In the blood tests they detected a high level of beta HCG, which means you’re expecting a baby! Congratulations!" 

Jisung didn’t react. 

"Or maybe no congratulations...?" she smiled awkwardly, growing even more embarrassed. "I’ll give you some time." she bowed in farewell, which wasn’t returned, and left the room, leaving Jisung devastated. 

The omega couldn’t believe what was happening. Him? Pregnant? That was impossible; it hadn’t been many months since his last heat, which he had avoided with suppressants, and the next one was considerably far away for there to be any risk of pregnancy. That had to be a joke, maybe a hidden camera, a prank, or a strategy by Minho to destabilize him; it made no sense for him to be expecting a baby. 

Or maybe it did? 

And what if, by a small almost impossible chance, he had gotten pregnant? And what if — which wasn’t likely since Minho was the only one he had been involved with in recent months — the child was Minho’s? The man who had ended a marriage because of hypothetical children. 

His career was rising; getting pregnant at that moment was like retiring prematurely, but without the retirement money. He knew that in the reality they lived in, an omega like him wouldn’t have an exemplary career with a “scandal” like that, especially because of his age and being unmarried. His career was ruined. 

He barely took care of himself and now he had a child as his responsibility; it might only be a fetus, but it would mean a life after a few weeks, a life that would carry his DNA and Minho’s mixed together, an idea that, while causing him panic, a part of him liked very much — and very much indeed. 

However, considering Minho’s ideals, that situation was unacceptable. He would probably insist on an abortion and Jisung didn’t even consider that possibility; he wanted to have that child, even if it cost his entire career and life. 

There were so many things to think about; he hadn’t even processed that his body was now carrying someone else’s DNA and, especially, the DNA of the person he hated. 

The first thing he did was grab his phone and call Changbin; he urgently needed the beta’s help and guidance. He didn’t think he would cry, but the moment he heard his best friend’s “agent” voice, he couldn’t stop his voice from breaking. 

"Jisung?! What happened?" 

Changbin was very worried; the omega didn’t cry over just anything. 

"You’re very nervous! It’ll be fine! You’ve done this before and-" 

"Hyung… I need you to come to Busan." he tried his best not to ruin the makeup, looking up and holding back tears. 

"What?! But why?!" 

"Please, hyung, just come." he didn’t want to give the news over the phone. 

"Jisung, I need to know what happened." 

Changbin would go with or without a reason; just hearing Jisung’s tearful voice already made him want to pack his bags. He just wanted to know what awaited him in Busan, maybe he could take action before arriving in the city. 

Reluctant but with few options, upon hearing his name being called and that they would go live in two minutes, Jisung gave in. 

"I’m expecting a baby." 

Jisung ended the call, cutting off what sounded like an incredulous scream from Changbin. He didn’t have time to process the information; he had to go live and give his best, even if he was competing against the one who was the progenitor of the fetus in his womb. 

He ran his fingers over his tear ducts, wiping away what struggled to fall and took a deep breath. He had to be strong. He hid the envelope and left the room, being approached by many staff members since there was little time before going on air. He was placed at the small kitchen already stocked with the necessary ingredients for the first dish, just a few meters away from Minho, who stood with a confident posture. Their eyes met and Jisung almost cried again upon seeing Lee. 

"May the best win." Minho commented, winking. "In this case, me." 

Not even the jab could affect Jisung, who was already destabilized. 

Jisung didn’t answer, looking at the main camera and leaving Minho confused for not being fired back at. He shrugged, also focusing on the camera. 

Jeongin was the last to enter the stage and, in sequence, the countdown to go live began. 

"Welcome to the special episode of Chef's Kingdom!" Jeongin said excitedly to the camera. "In this episode, we are broadcasting live directly from the YoungHall Hotel in Busan. Our competitors are the country’s most popular rival chefs, gathering thousands of followers and causing a stir on social media! After several culinary battles, we are here today to discover the best chef among them! You can vote for your favorite from home, just post with the hashtag..." 

While Jeongin presented the show with a radiant smile, Jisung was the complete opposite. He tried to disguise the despair he felt and hoped people would think it was because of the program, which at that point no longer mattered. He couldn’t even smile like Minho, staring at absolutely nothing, his mind elsewhere. 

His demeanor did not go unnoticed by the alpha, who had already been uneasy since Jisung followed the staff member; the lack of reaction to the earlier jab and the absence of his confident aura left him worried about the omega. What had happened for him to be so different within minutes? 

With the little he managed to glance — taking advantage of the camera being focused on Jeongin —, Minho noticed that Jisung was squeezing his own trembling hand, as if trying to stop it. 

He wanted to go to Jisung and ask what was happening, to check if everything was alright and that it was just nervousness from being live to thousands of people, but he couldn’t leave his spot. 

Jeongin finished the introduction and the camera focused on each of them in turn, first on the older one and then on the younger, where they made their basic introductions before preparing the first dish, which was Korean cuisine, Jisung’s specialty. 

It would be a best of three dishes; whoever won two would take the crown home. 

So, the winner was announced: Lee Know. 

The lupus alpha smiled victoriously, his pride sky-high and ready to mock his rival, but when his eyes drifted to Jisung, it was as if the victory meant nothing. He had been imagining that scene since they started filming the show, seeing Jisung defeated and with a wounded ego, but reality was very different from what he had imagined. 

The people around him congratulated him, chanted his victory while handing him flowers and a winner’s sash, but Minho could not care less, his smile fading as he watched Jisung shrink in the middle of the crowd, his big dark eyes lost among the people, as if there were no direction left and, in fact, there wasn’t. 

After the whole dramatic ceremony of Minho receiving the crown and Jisung bowing to him, the first thing the omega did once he was allowed to leave the filming set was hug Changbin — who was waiting just behind the cameras — tightly and be enveloped by his best friend’s arms, no longer able to hold back all that crying, not caring whether the people around would notice his sadness, after all, they were all focused on Lee’s victory, except for the winner himself. 

They still had to deal with a press conference after the broadcast. Changbin asked if Jisung would like to go to the room instead of attending the conference, but the omega wiped his tears and confirmed his presence, he needed to be professional, even if it was difficult. 

The two competitors were seated at a central table accompanied by the show’s host, Jeongin, and the hotel representative, Yongbok. Jisung kept his head slightly lowered, focusing his gaze on his own fingers that mistreated each other, beginning to create small wounds. 

"Chef Lee, how do you feel after winning against chef Han?" one of the reporters already familiar with them and perhaps the most well-known present, Hyunjin, asked. 

Minho smirked, taking the microphone to answer. 

"We all knew who was going to win, this final competition was just to reaffirm it. Chef Han needs to improve in several aspects, he is still a rookie." 

"Do you agree with chef Lee, chef Han?" Hyunjin took advantage of the moment. 

Jisung merely brought the microphone to his mouth and replied without enthusiasm. 

"Yes. He’s right." was the only thing he said, placing the microphone on the table and keeping the same neutral expression. 

Minho frowned, extremely surprised by the lack of sharpness. Han was supposed to fire back, argue in return and fuel the rivalry, not lower his head and accept everything, no, that was not the Jisung he knew. 

A few more questions were asked, many of them answered by Jeongin and Minho — who was now avoiding rivalry. Most of the questions were directed at the television program and the chefs’ careers, but one ended up drawing attention. 

A reporter who was further back stood up to ask: 

"Chef Lee, it is known that you were married to the heir of the heir of Lee group, Mr. Lee Yongbok. Is it true that you plan to annul the divorce?" 

Before Minho could answer, Yongbok took over. 

"Yes. It’s true." 

The reporters present began frantically writing down the answer in their notebooks, it was quite the scoop. Some whispered while others raised their hands to ask more questions, completely shifting the theme of the conference. 

Everyone was surprised, especially Jisung who turned his gaze to stare at the older chef, finding him staring back with a worried expression. Deep down, Jisung wished he would grab that damn microphone and say that Yongbok was wrong, that it was a misunderstanding and they were not going to reconcile the marriage, but Minho did nothing, only maintained eye contact until Jisung looked away, now subtly placing a hand on his own belly and feeling the world collapse in his chest. 

Not only the world, because he soon felt a slight pressure in his stomach and the sudden urge to throw up whatever was in there, leaving without warning and with his hand over his mouth; drawing curious looks that soon got distracted by yet another question about the relationship between the other two. 

Minho wanted to get up from his chair and follow Jisung, he almost did, but he was stopped by the reporter’s question. He forced a smile and answered. 

Jisung entered the bathroom almost punching the door, emptying what he had in his stomach — water — all at once. He felt a pair of hands helping him up, it was Changbin, asking if he was okay and that he didn’t need to return to the interview, this time Jisung agreed, he just wanted to be in an environment without cameras and Minho. 

In the room, Jisung sat on the comfortable bed with his hands resting on his own legs, gaze lowered and thousands of thoughts running through his mind. He was pulled from them when Changbin began to speak calmly and carefully: 

"I will support you in any decision. If you want to-" 

"What?! No!" Jisung protested. "I’m not going to abort!" 

"Calm down! Calm down! I didn’t say you had to." Changbin was tense, constantly biting his lip. "Have you told Minho yet?" 

"How do you...?" Jisung widened his eyes. 

"You two aren’t very good at hiding it." 

"I didn’t tell him and I don’t want to." 

"Why? Did you fight or...?" 

"Didn’t you see the interview? He’s going to reconcile his marriage with the heir of this damn hotel and he made it very clear to me that he doesn’t want to have children." his anger was growing. At the same time Jisung wanted to cry, he wanted to strangle Minho. 

"Jisung, it might just be a marketing move." Changbin tried to calm him down, but it only served to irritate him even more. "And people change. Minho is already in his thir-" 

"It’s not, it’s already obvious that it isn’t." he looked away, remembering the previous day when he saw the two of them together with Yongbok’s father. "If this gets out in the media, it will be even worse. I’ll be known as ‘the omega who destroyed the nation’s couple’!" it wasn’t that extreme, but in that moment any exaggeration was used. 

"You won’t." Changbin sat beside him, carefully holding one of his hands. "Even if he is reconciling the marriage, it’s still his right to know." 

"For what? So he can laugh in my face and tell me to abort?" 

"I don’t think he’s that kind of person." 

"And what do you know?" Jisung shot back, then immediately noticing how rude he had been. "Sorry, I didn’t mean to offend you..." 

Changbin gave a faint, understanding smile, he needed to. 

"If you want to take it out on me, you can, just don’t take it out on the baby." 

Jisung nodded, head lowered. He didn’t know exactly what to feel, at the same time he thought he wanted to tell Minho — even if only as a formality — he thought he should just let the matter go and leave the alpha who had been kissing him in the cold night the night before in peace. Damn it, he was carrying Minho’s child and that made him feel strangely good. 

"What do I do...?" 

"What do you want to do?" he countered. 

"I don’t know, I— aish!" he cursed, briefly biting his lip. "I don’t want to drag him into this drama, the baby has no fault. I just want my baby to have a good life, with or without the father." 

Changbin nodded, bringing one of his hands to Jisung’s hair, where he gently stroked it. 

"Take a shower. Then we’ll see what can be done, okay?" he suggested and Jisung nodded, getting up from the bed and heading to the suite’s bathroom. 

Before stepping into the shower — already without clothes — Jisung briefly looked at himself in the mirror, seeing how his brown hair framed his own face, lowering his gaze over the tattoos, over the muscles down to his defined abdomen, soon he would lose that outline, but it wasn’t something that discouraged him. He placed his hand there, caressing the area and allowing himself to smile as he imagined how it would look, the smile falling in sequence as he remembered that the person who would leave him like that might never know. Then, he stepped into the shower which was already beginning to fog up the mirror anyway. 

Three knocks on the door. Changbin was fiddling with his phone when he heard them. Since Jisung was in the shower, he got up and went to answer, revealing the lupus alpha who was causing all that drama. 

"Ah." Minho wasn’t expecting to find Changbin, but it wasn’t unexpected either. "Is Jisung here?" he tried to take a look inside the room, it wasn’t that difficult given the beta’s height. 

"He’s in the shower." Changbin was honest and narrowed himself a little more in the doorway in order not to give space. "You can give me the message, I’ll pass it to him." 

"It’s private between us." 

"There are no secrets between me and Jisung." Changbin was not intimidated by the alpha’s presence. 

Minho raised an eyebrow, clearly doubting. He had his reasons. 

"I really need to talk to him." 

"As I said, he’s in the shower and, to be frank with you, I don’t think he wants to see you. Today was a very stressful day." his gaze was serious, sharp, to the point that Minho, a lupus alpha, felt intimidated. 

"Please, tell him I need to talk to him." Minho asked. 

"Why should I?" Changbin shot back. "Haven’t you already said too much today?" 

Minho widened his eyes, surprised by the veiled threat. 

"What?" 

"Have a good day, chef Lee." was the last thing Changbin said before closing the door and leaving Minho without understanding anything in the hallway. 

Jisung was coming out of the shower already wrapped in a bathrobe when Changbin closed the door, asking: 

"Who was it?" 

"Room service." 

[...] 

Jisung did not reply. It must have been the twentieth message Minho had sent, and none of them were answered, not even read. 

"Why didn’t you tell him when you had the chance?" Seungmin shot back, his gaze tired. 

"It was confidential, I couldn’t." 

"I think your relationship shouldn’t have that kind of obstacle." he sighed heavily, arms crossed as he stared at his best friend and client. "Changbin isn’t answering me either. I can’t help you." 

"Fuck!" he snapped, hitting the soft mattress hard. "What do I do now? It’s not like I can break down the hotel door just to talk to him." 

"Well, technically you can, but I’m not really in the mood to deal with the Busan police." 

Sometimes Minho hated Seungmin’s acid humor. 

"Idiot." he muttered. 

"Look, hyung, first you need to understand what you feel for him." Seungmin began, his tone more serious than before.

"What I feel for him?" 

"Yeah. Are you just worried about losing your sex partner or about losing Jisung?" he shot back, renting a whole triplex in Minho’s head. 

"H-He’s not entirely bad, he has a nice body, good conversation and some irritating habits-" 

Seungmin arched an eyebrow. 

"Maybe I like him more than I should." he admitted. 

Minho’s phone vibrated on top of the bed, drawing both of their attention. Minho grabbed the device, smiling immediately when he saw it was a message from Jisung. It didn’t last long, because when he opened it, he was met with the last thing he expected to read. 

_doolsetnet: 

don’t send me any more messages

_doolsetnet: 

I'll block you. 

Minho quickly typed, claiming he would explain everything, but Jisung’s profile picture suddenly disappeared and the messages were no longer being delivered. 

"So?" Seungmin wasn’t very encouraged by the older one’s nonverbal reactions. 

"I think I fucked everything up, Minnie." 

Even though Jisung had blocked him, Minho did not give up on trying to contact him. He went back to knocking on the hotel room door, practically begging for Jisung to open it so they could talk — it was a very private matter —, but his pleas were in vain, because the one who opened the door was neither Changbin nor Jisung, but a hotel employee. 

To make everything worse, Seungmin had also been blocked by Changbin, eliminating any possibility of parallel contact. 

Minho opened social media, it was a way to try to speak to Jisung, but when he searched for the rival chef’s username, he only found fan pages. Every official account he knew of Jisung had disappeared, the videos with millions of views and a page filled with sponsorships and recipes deleted from one moment to the next. 

He couldn’t understand. Jisung wasn’t someone who would give up everything just because he lost a dispute; Minho expected his pride to be hurt, but not to the point of ending his career, that competition served to boost them even more and even with defeat the omega would still come out winning. 

He used his privilege as an important person to the hotel to check the records and security cameras, trying to understand through the footage if he could find something; maybe Jisung was being held hostage by Changbin — he knew he wasn’t, but it was a justification for his worried and desperate interior. Jisung wore casual clothes, a mask covering half his face and a cap, accompanied by the unmistakable beta also wearing a mask. They seemed calm, but it was when Jisung looked at the elevator security camera for a moment that Minho managed to see. 

The image wasn’t the best, but it was possible to see the swollen and red eyes. Jisung had cried a lot to end up in that state and Minho’s instinct could not have been more wounded, wanting to wrap that omega in his arms and protect him from any bad feeling, even if he was the main cause. 

How he wanted to whip himself at that moment. Minho shouldn’t have hidden such important information, he should have told him the night before about what he would reveal at the press conference and why they were doing that. He didn’t want to reconcile his marriage with Felix, it was never his real desire, but he had to because he still cared about the blond omega — not in a romantic way — and he didn’t want to see him hurt. 

He wanted to tell Jisung that he had also been caught off guard and that all of that would be temporary, just a few months, and then Minho would return to divorced status. The alpha received a call from Felix days before they traveled to Busan, claiming he needed Minho’s help or he would be doomed. Felix was expecting a baby — which was none of Minho’s business, he congratulated him and was ready to hang up — from his own bodyguard, with whom he had secretly gotten involved. 

It would be a scandal for Felix’s family, the only son, heir to the entire hotel chain and a celebrity in the media for his unique appearance and influence in the fashion industry — but heavily judged for being a divorced omega —, pregnant by an employee. Marrying the bodyguard was out of the question, since a marriage like that would bring chaos due to the notable class difference — and the Lee family would not want to stain the image of their great treasure; they did not handle the first marriage well, accepting it more because of Minho’s influence in the culinary field. 

Felix begged, claiming that if they did not reconcile the marriage, he would be forced to abort — and Minho knew the Lees, they could be cruel. 

Reconciling the marriage was the best option, until Felix could have the child and then they could divorce again. 

Minho’s alpha mind expected Jisung to understand when the time came to tell him, he would reveal the truth to him as soon as possible, but how would he understand if he couldn’t even speak to him? 

He decided to look for him when he returned to Seoul, something that took time since his schedule was full because of the program’s victory — apparently everyone wanted a piece of Minho — which made him return to Seoul three days later. 

As soon as he returned to the capital, Minho went to the front of Jisung’s house, the familiar facade giving him a drop of hope. He rang the doorbell once, waiting patiently. A second time when there was no response and then a third, fourth, fifth. Nothing. No sign of life. 

He tried to look at Jisung’s bedroom window — from afar, because the residence wall was quite high —, but the dark curtain did not let him see anything. 

"Excuse me." A woman approached, she was wearing casual clothes and holding the leash of a golden retriever. Maybe she was a resident of the street. "Are you trying to contact the resident of this house?" 

"Yes. Do you know if he’s there?" 

"He moved out this week. I think it was some emergency, because he moved so quickly." 

Minho blinked, disbelieving. 

Jisung had changed addresses… was he trying to disappear? But why? 

He did something he never thought he would do — since it was Seungmin’s job —: buy a new SIM card. It was a way to try to contact Jisung, a bit stalker-like, but it was necessary. 

However, when he tried to call the number, a female voice answered. Minho asked about Jisung and received a confused response. That number no longer belonged to Han Jisung. 

Minho almost crushed the phone in his hands, frustration consuming him from the inside out. 

He would not get tired until he found Jisung. Until he found his omega.