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It was maddening how ethereal Jeon Jeongguk looked holding that small potato bag between his arms, how soft his sight had turned and how delicate his embrace was. Jeon, the alpha who made his blood boil just by breathing in his direction, the same who enjoyed torturing Taehyung with his existence, now all softie and caring with that thing in his arms. It was infuriating  and it made Taehyung's insides twist in rage.

“Taehyung? Did you listen to anything I said?” Namjoon, the pack leader, called his name, and the omega, unaware of how long he had been out of the conversation, shook his head no.

“Sorry,” Taehyung managed to pull his eyes away from the nightmare a few steps on his left, Jeon now rocking the pup in a sweet, controlled pace. “What again?”

Namjoon sighed, his hand traveled to massage his temple. “If it wasn't because you are the only option available, I swear to the Moon Goodess…”

“If you know how I am, why do you even consider me?” Taehyung defended himself, rolling his eyes in exasperation. 

“I can do it alone,” The other alpha spoke, not giving Taehyung the time of the day and looking directly to their head alpha. “Namjoon, you know I can do it alone. You know it would be easier for me.''

“And I also know our pack rules, Jeongguk,” Namjoom shook his head. “I can't make an exception for any of you. Both an unmated omega and an alpha have to raise the orphan omega pup together under the same roof.”

“You can't do this to me.” Jeongguk and Taehyung said at the same time. Well, actually, the omega basically yelled it.

"Selfish brat.” The alpha scoffed, his stone-cold demeanor back in place when they locked eyes.

Taehyung arched an eyebrow, “Are you talking to me, stupid alpha, or to a mirror?”

“Control your mouth around the pup, Kim,” 

“Oh, come on! It's not even your child, Jeon!”

Jeongguk growled in response, but the little Gremlin felt the shift in the atmosphere and whined in his arms. Did it come with a mood detector incorporated or what?

“This is your fault.” The alpha glared at him coldly, then focused on the pup and again, there it was, a kindness Taehyung had never seen in Jeon’s eyes before. The image was almost terrifying. He wanted to push his eyeballs inside his eye sockets just to avoid seeing it again.

Jeongguk shushed the baby, releasing calming pheromones, to which Taehyung audibly gagged, pinching his nose with his thumb and index as the scent of fresh mint and oranges invaded the room.

“Nam, I love you, but with all due respect, you are out of your mind if you think this is the best idea.” His voice came out funny, twangy. 

“I don't think this is the best idea, at all,” Namjoon sighed. “It's the only one there is.”

“Please, Namjoon,” Taehyung begged, “You can't do this to me. And with Jeon on top of that! There must be someone else—”

“I checked ten times already, if there was any other option, I promise you, I wouldn't have requested your presence today Taehyung.”

Jeon chuckled, Taehyung rolled his eyes, deliberately opting to ignore the stung Namjoon's honest words had caused him. It was no secret for the pack, however, the kind of unconventional omega Taehyung was.

“Jeongguk, please sit down,” Namjoon demanded with an understanding but firm tone. “Let's go through the contract again and let me clarify your tasks and obligations with Ji-un. And this time, Taehyung, don't zone out.”

“I promise nothing.” 

《☆》

“Kim,” The alpha called, squirming dumpling in his arms and bag on his shoulder, “could you hold the baby for a second?”

“I would rather not. Thank you.” Taehyung smiled with false politeness, walking past the alpha.

Jeongguk pressed his tongue on his inner cheek, annoyed,  “Look, I like this as much as you do. But you heard Namjoon, this pup is our responsibility now.”

Taehyung turned around, questioning look on his face. “To me it seems you are overly happy with this situation, Jeon. You took it way too easy.” 

You make it look way too easy, he didn't add.

“Happy?” Jeongguk scoffed, his face showing nothing but disgust. “Who in their sane mind would be happy to be tied to you for the next eighteen years?”

Taehyung raised a brow, challenging. “I'm not the one who is practically 30 and unmated, Jeon. Perhaps I am your only chance at playing happy family.”

Jeongguk clenched his jaw, something close to hurt flashing his dark eyes.

“It's not as if you had a long queue of suitors yourself.”

“Who said I need any?”

“How old are you? 25? 26?” Jeongguk  inquired, “Not so young either. You know omegas aren't fertile forever, unlike alphas. You should be nicer with your only chance at getting pregnant.”

“First of all,” Taehyung pointed at him, “a gentleman never talks about an omega's age. Not that I expected you to be one, tho. Second, if you suggest the idea of us breeding ever again, I'll chop your dick off.”

“You are insufferable.”

“The feeling is mutual, believe me.”

Taehyung turned around, but instead of heading to their shared new house at the outskirts of town, he headed towards the main street.

“Where are you going?”

“You are nuts if you think I can go straight to parenting with you, Jeon. I need some time to myself. I'll join you later.”

“Unbelievable.” Jeongguk scoffed, his scent turning bitter.

Taehyung brows knitted, “What's your issue now? That I need time to process the situation? Oh, my apologies if I'm not as thrilled as you are!”

“How can you be so selfish? This was as rushed for you, as it was for me!” Ji-un complained in the alpha's arms, Jeongguk tried to adjust the things he was carrying to soothe him with his free hand. His eyes flashed red. “You know what? Do whatever you want. I don't give a fuck.”

“I was counting on that. And as I said,” Taehyung crossed his arms around his middle, defensive, “the feeling is mutual.”

“Whatever.” 

When Jeongguk disappeared down the next street, Taehyung sighed, letting out all the air he didn't know he had been holding. His chest felt tight, his hands fists on each side, his knuckles turned pale. He felt guilty, but was there anything to feel guilty about? It wasn't like he was going to run away from this obligation, as if something like that could be possible without disrespecting the Moon Goddess and being permanently thrown out of the pack.

Unlike Jeongguk, who cradled the baby as if it was the most precious thing on Earth when Namjoon had brought him, Taehyung was damn terrified. And that dickhead of an alpha, he sure got on his nerves! So, yeah, sue him if he needed some extra minutes to breathe and accept the big turn his life had taken! 

He. Just. Needed. A. Damn. Minute. To. Organize. His. Thoughts. And. Panick. In. Peace. And Taehyung would very much rather die than show vulnerability in front of Jeon Jeongguk.

He sighed and opened the door of his favorite Café, the bell attached to the green door chiming above him. The scent of freshly baked muffins, bread and biscuit filled his nostrils. At sunset, the place had a golden, comforting glow, as if pulling Taehyung in a warm, tight embrace. As he walked to the counter, Yoongi greeted him with a movement of his head, already preparing what he knew Taehyung was going to order: a chocolate muffin filled with cream and a honey cinnamon tea.

“Hi, Yoons,” Taehyung smiled, “Is Jimin there?”

The alpha shook his head, placing Taehyung's order in front of him. “He’s with Jeongguk. He called around five minutes ago.”

“Are you kidding me? What is he doing with him?”

“He needed some advice with the pup. Congratulations, by the way,” Yoongi smiled. “Shouldn't you be there, too?”

“Shouldn't you, instead of my best friend?” Taehyung raised a brow, giving a big bite to his muffin. “And nothing to congratulate me for. This is the worst day of my life.”

“Jimin's an omega. It's easier for him,” Yoongi shrugged his shoulders, “It might seem like a nightmare now, but who knows. Perhaps you change your mind.”

“That won't happen,” Taehyung blew into his steaming tea, then took a small sip. “And being an omega means shit, Yoons. Look at me. I know nothing about pups and you know it.”

“I guess being pregnant and reading plenty of books helped as well,” Yoongi said. He walked to his side and patted his back. “Finish your tea, and go home, Tae.”

“I don't want to,” Taehyung paused, “but thanks.”

“I know you don't. But you have to,” Yoongi stated the obvious. “Giving a chance to an orphan omega pup, this is a great honor and responsibility. Don't you think so?”

“If you like it so much, why don't you do it?”

“We have our own pups coming soon,” Yoongi smiled with fondness, “Believe me, it'll be easier if you both work on it together. As a team.”

“Me and Jeon? A team?” Taehyung chuckled. “As if.”

“Yeah. You and Jeongguk,” Yoongi walked back to the counter, as some clients had entered the shop. “You know I don't mind your constant bickering, but for Jimin's own good, it would be great if you two could get along. Jeongguk is more than his brother-in-law, he's Jimin's friend.”

“You know I would give Jimin the Moon,” Taehyung paused, “But getting along with Jeon? You are asking for too much. When hell freezes over, perhaps.”

Yoongi shrugged his shoulders, “Who knows. It might be a hell of a cold winter this year.” 

He then turned to face the new customers, leaving Taehyung alone with his thoughts and problems. He had come here with the intention of venting everything to his best friend, as Jimin always knew how to cheer him up, but of course, stupid Jeon had beat him to it. And instead, he got Jeon's brother. However, the truth is, Taehyung really enjoyed Yoongi's calm and enigmatic character. If it wasn't because he was Jimin's mate, he could definitely have developed a crush on him, the man being totally the opposite of his younger brother. It was hard to believe these two shared the same parents.

Taehyung finished his tea slowly, trying to postpone as much as possible what he knew was inevitable. His life would never get to be what it was ever again, his youthful years being forcefully taken away and replaced by diapers, tantrums and early mornings. And it didn’t end there, he would need to share a home with that stupid alpha, seeing him every morning for the next eighteen years without  killing  each other, all the best of luck on surviving that. And he would need to create a bond with the pup, because how do you raise a child without love and affection? Wait— and how often do babies eat? And what about the diapers? How often are they supposed to be changed? And—

Before he could notice it, Yoongi was again next to him, rubbing his back gently. He breathed in Yoongi's gingerbread scent, his mind slowly calming down.

“One step at a time, Tae,” Yoongi didn't mention the sour aroma Taehyung had drowned the place in, instead  trying to slowly  replace it with his. “take it one step at a time. For now, just go home and try holding the pup. The rest will come eventually. You can do that, can't you?”

“I guess?” Embarrassment pricked the back of his neck as he had let his emotions show in front of plenty of strangers.

“Could you bring this to Jeongguk? I put his favorites here. I also added another muffin for you.”

“Do I look like his personal deliveryman to you?” Taehyung said, rolling his eyes, but before leaving he took the bag with a small smile of gratitude.

《☆》

Taehyung stared at the wooden door in front of him, unsure if he should knock or open it with his set of keys. From this day on and for many years to come, it was also his house, but it didn't feel like it at all. Instead, his heart was heavy on his chest, his brain yelling at him to go back home, his real home. If only he could have avoided this forced situation he was in. 

Taehyung took a deep breath, counted to five and inserted the key in the keyhole. 

The wood floors cracked when he stepped inside, the door shutting behind him, darkness swallowing him. The scent of mint and oranges filled his lungs jointly with the characteristic smell that only a new house can have, a mix of freshly cut wood and cleaning products. Jimin's lilac scent was also present, but very subtle and slowly fading away. Taehyung would never admit it, and he loved his best friend's scent, but at that moment his omega disliked how it mixed with Jeon's at their new home. And for the first time in forever, he allowed himself to breathe in the fresh and citric fragrance he so often claimed to hate. The calming pheromones that had been addressed to the baby, slowly washing away his own anxiety too.

He realized shortly after stepping out of his shoes, that the house was awfully still. He tiptoed his way to the livingroom, surprised by an open-concept with a very modern kitchen. Wait, was that a dishwasher? Oh wow. If he had known it came with such luxuries, he would have considered being a guardian earlier. 

Just when he carefully left his suitcase on the floor, he had made a brief stop by his house to gather some clothes and other belongings, he noticed the alpha sleeping on the far end of the couch with a book on his lap. 

As he approached, he read: Parenting for dummy alphas. Oh well, look at that! If it wasn't a book written especially for him. 

Taehyung found other volumes on the small table in front of the couch such as The alpha guideline to take care of your omega and first pup and Cuddles, scenting, feeding and other basic pup needs. He swallowed, his eyes lingering in that one a little longer.

He left the bag of goodies Yoongi had given him on the table and sighed. He had seen these books around Jimin's house even before him and Yoongi started trying to conceive, the thought of everyone trying so hard to improve themselves and putting so much selfless effort for someone else made him feel pathetic and selfish.

He was about to grab the book on Jeongguk’s lap and put it with the others, when strong, tattooed fingers gripped his wrist. Taehyung jolted, Jeongguk’s eyes set on him.

“What are you doing?” The alpha asked, brows furrowed.

“Nothing.” Taehyung replied quickly, his heart hammering in his chest. His skin itched where Jeongguk touched him.

Why did he reach for the book? Since when did he care if it fell and the sound woke the alpha up? What was next, cradling Jeon under a blanket and singing him a lullaby? 

“Why did you call Jimin?” He yanked his arm free from the alpha's grasp. 

Jeongguk stared at him for a second, in silence, then scoffed.

“Because I needed help.”

“Don't you have friends that you have to call mine?”

“He's also my friend,” Jeongguk rolled his eyes. “It's not my fault if you only have him, Kim.”

“As if you had many.”

“A few more than you,’’ The alpha smirked. “But that's not complicated. Is it?”

“Whatever.” Taehyung shook his head, opting to drop the topic. 

This conversation was, by far, way friendlier than he had anticipated. After the way the alpha had looked at him before parting ways, Taehyung had expected much more painful  comebacks. 

When he turned, Jeongguk grabbed his wrist again. Taehyung jolted.

“Jeon, I get that you are deprived of physical contact, but do you plan on touching me all the time? Are you falling in love with me or something?”

When Jeongguk realized, his eyes widened and he dropped Taehyung's wrist as if he had been burned.

“Not even if you were the last omega on earth.”

Taehyung laughed, short and empty. “It goes both ways.”

“Fine for me.” Jeongguk stood up from the couch, walking to the kitchen and filling a glass of water for himself.

“Where's the pup?”

“Now you care?”

“Give me a break! Will you?” 

Jeongguk shushed him, “The pup is sleeping, airhead.”

“Oh,” Taehyung muttered. “Where?”

“In his room. For now,” Jeongguk left the glass on the counter. “But Jimin said he is too small to be left alone. The crib has to be in our rooms at night.”

“Great,” Taehyung sighed, “And which one is my room?”

“Didn't pick one yet,” Jeongguk said. “I don't really care, so just choose one.”

Taehyung raised an eyebrow, but didn't mention anything. He inspected all the rooms, one being the toilet, the other the nursery. He then took the one with the bigger bed, with baby blue bedsheets and a crocheted blanket on the edge. He also had a desk, a wardrobe and a window with direct access to their garden. Other than that, the room felt gloomy and empty, the wooden walls missed some art and color. Taehyung made a mental note to paint something and buy some plants.

When he returned to the livingroom, Jeongguk had his jacket on and was walking to the main door.

“Where are you going?” Taehyung panicked.

“Out?” Jeongguk gave him a weird look. “Do I need to update you about my whereabouts now?”

“No. I couldn't care less,” Taehyung crossed his arms. “But do you really plan on leaving me alone with the pup?”

“Weren't you at the meeting earlier?” Jeongguk questioned. “He is as much your obligation, as he is mine.”

“Jeon, you can't leave me alone.” Taehyung warned.

Jeongguk twisted the doorknob and opened the door. 

“Watch me, Kim.”

And just like that, the stupid alpha left without second thoughts, the sound of the door echoing on the wooden walls. 

For the first time of many to come, Taehyung was alone with the dumpling. 

《☆》

Taehyung checked on the pup more times than he was willing to admit, just to make sure he was still alive and breathing, hovering a finger on his nostrils to feel the air or a palm to his chest to feel his heartbeat. He had been reading one of the books on the table, more to control his anxiety than anything else, and it mentioned something about the dangers of unattended sleep. The pup was in his own room and the book didn't specify how often it was important to supervise them, so he guessed every five minutes would be okay.

In one of his trips, however, the baby opened his eyes slowly, grabbing Taehyung's finger on his tiny little fist. The omega gasped, and the pup giggled in response, showing his teethless gums, eyes squinting. 

Ji-un made a funny, high-pitched sound, then pushed Taehyung's finger to his mouth, blabbering and giggling. 

“Yikes.” Taehyung pulled a face of disgust, but the truth is, his heart started melting in his chest.

The pup kicked his chubby, short legs against the bed, wiggling his sockless little toes, leaving Taehyung's finger, now all wet and sticky, and reaching for his right foot, squeaking in excitement.

Taehyung smiled fondly. 

“Surprisingly, you are kind of cute.”

Ji-un blinked, tilting his head. And all of sudden, and without a warning, he went red, farted as loud as a thunder and started crying. 

Taehyung panicked, unsure of how to lift the squirming baby without accidentally dropping it to the floor. Without the alpha around to take control of the situation, his wolf scratched in his chest in distress.

“Oh, for the Moon Goodess!” As he held him in his arms, the smell of something incredibly toxic, rotten and nauseating filled his lungs. He coughed, gagged, “What are you, a nuclear weapon?”

Taehyung put the baby on the changing table and grabbed a diaper, with no idea of what he was doing or if it was correct, just letting his body work on impulse. Mastering a lot of courage and holding his breath, he opened the dirty diaper, cleaned the baby's buttocks and put a new one, which wasn't centred at all, it pulled more on the left side than the right, but oh well.

Once clean, the pup seemed to calm down in his arms, as Taehyung held him on his chest, close to his heart, and started rocking him while walking to the living room.

He hummed something, a melody that had been long lost on the depths of his brain. The chicken nugget seemed to like it.

Later that day, when the alpha opened the door and stepped on the hallway, the image of Taehyung in the living room talking to a little, giggling pup seemed to hit him like a brick. Taehyung  looked at him, eyebrow raised, and saw him visibly swallowing, eyes glued to the way his arms were weirdly but delicately wrapped around the baby, how he rocked him with unsure but gentle movements. 

If Taehyung could have read his mind, he would have known that in the alpha's eyes he was trying his best, without knowing. And that as horrifying as it sounded, right at that instant, his square-shaped smile looked mesmerising. He would have also known that Jeongguk felt his heart skipping a beat.

“Ugh,” The omega complained, oblivious to all of that and snapping Jeongguk out of his spell, looking at him with disgust. “You stink, Jeon. Shower and come take this pooping machine. It's your turn now.”

And there it was again, the insufferable omega he detested so much.

《☆》

The postnatal course started the next morning at 9:30am and took place on Tuesday and Thursday. And as Namjoon had informed them, attendance was mandatory. In fact, both Taehyung and Jeongguk were cleared of responsibilities for the next five working days in order to bond with the pup, with each other, as if, and learn all about parenthood. In any other circumstance, any amount of paid days without working would have been Taehyung's dream, but he wasn't excited when he had to spend it with Jeon and the potato bag.

“Kim, for fucks sake, we will be late!”

“I'm coming, gosh!” Taehyung yelled, opening the door of his room, rolling his eyes.

“What the hell took you so long? You look exactly the same as when you entered!”

“I was doing my skincare routine,” Taehyung replied, nonchalantly. “I guess you never heard of that, and it shows.”

“Don't fool yourself, Kim,” Jeongguk scoffed. “no amount of beauty products can help you.”

“I'm gonna ignore you, because today I'm in a good mood.”

“Yeah,” Replied Jeongguk, with visible dark half-moons under his eyes, “probably because you didn't need to wake up every now and then to soothe the pup!”

“You agreed on having him the first night, Jeon, so keep your complaints to yourself.”

The dumpling, oblivious to the chaos around him, yawned in the baby carrier strapped around the alpha's chest.

“Let's go.” The alpha grunted.

Without thinking, Taehyung grabbed a blanket and put it on the baby's back and tucked it within the carrier's gray strips, keeping it in place to shield the pup from the morning, cold  autumn breeze of November. His shoulder brushed against Jeongguk's, his fingertips accidentally gracing his clothed ribs when trying to tuck the brown, fleecy blanket. 

The alpha held his breath at the unexpected proximity, at the feather-light touches, at the unforeseen caring gesture from the omega.

The baby blinked, a gummy smile directed at them, as the minty, orange scent from Jeongguk and the Jasmine one from Taehyung mixed, creating a new, very captivating one.

As it reached their own noses, Taehyung jumped, putting as much distance to the alpha as possible, while the alpha tensed his jaw, uncomfortable.

“Don't you dare say anything.” Jeongguk warned.

And to his surprise, Taehyung didn't. He just turned and left the house, followed by the alpha.

They walked in silence to the pack's main building, and headed to one of the bigger rooms where the lessons took place. The room greeted them with bubbly sounds and conversations, pups giggling and crying, mated couples sharing soft kisses and tender smiles.

Taehyung felt like a fish out of water. This wasn’t a place for them, for him, but still they had to stay. 

The room smelled of happiness and excitement, couples proudly showing their necks, mixing their scents. A shiver ran through Taehyung's spine. With a wry face, he guided Jeon to the far end. They sat in one of the pillows on the floor, putting as much distance between them as possible.

“This is stupid.” He mumbled.

Jeongguk raised an eyebrow, the pup now laying between them on the blanket, “Seeing you don't even know how to properly close a diaper, I think you need to be here more than anyone, Kim.”

“Shut up,” Taehyung rolled his eyes. “If you don't like how I do it, then do it yourself.”

“It's not a matter of liking, I never like anything you do anyways,” Jeongguk scoffed. “It's about diapers not leaking.”

Taehyung opened his mouth to protest, but an old omega placed her hand softly on his shoulder, squeezing it gently.

“Oh, dear, dear. Don't go against your wolves’ wishes,” Her voice was soft. “You both need to put your differences aside if you want to raise the pup together. For his and your own good.”

No. That was the point, they didn't want to but had to. Taehyung felt the urge to clarify, but he kept quiet. The female omega, although petite and face covered in wrinkles, held an authority Taehyung didn't find in himself to question. He just nodded, then she went to the other end of the room and welcomed everyone.

Jeongguk chuckled, “Look at you, such an obedient pup.”

“This pup will erase that horrible smile from your face if you don't keep it quiet, Jeon.”

“Before immersing ourselves into the theory of parenthood,” The old omega, the lecturer, raised her calm, gentle voice for everyone to hear, “we will take the first half of today's class to connect with our partners. I see most of you are already in harmony, but there are some parents still struggling.” 

Although she kept her eyes wandering around the group, Taehyung and Jeongguk felt called out like pups who were caught being naughty and misbehaving. Color painted their cheeks.

“There's nothing to be ashamed of,” the woman continued, “Big changes take big efforts. Now, I want you to look each other in the eyes, and thank your partner for walking this beautiful path with you. You can start, open your hearts.”

Jeongguk scoffed. “What is there to thank you for? Your selfishness?”

“Dear Jeon,” Taehyung's voice was soft but full of invisible daggers, “I'm so thankful for your stupidity, because it keeps me and the pup entertained.” 

“Oh, I see,” Jeongguk tilted his head, wetting his lower lip. “Dear Kim, I'm thankful for your lack of basic, common knowledge, as it makes me feel undeniably smarter.''

Taehyung smiled cynically, “And I am beyond thankful, for your big ass ego and horrendous personality, which everyday reminds me why you never got to mate any omega and therefore got myself stuck with you raising this thing.”

Jeongguk pushed the tip of his tongue to his cheek, his nostrils wider and his chest raising dangerously. “I am thankful you are alive, Kim, as it gives me the chance to kill you myself.”

“Oh, what a coincidence! I'm also thankful for that!”

“Reachig agreement, I see. Good,” The lady walked to them, unaware of the topic being discussed. “Small steps. You are doing great. Keep up the hard work.”

When she left to attend to another couple, they looked at each other in disbelief and then sniggered, not realising it was the first time they both shared an honest, deprived of sarcasm, laugh.

《☆》

“Seriously,” The alpha sighed, “can't you read a simple instruction manual?”

“I can,” Taehyung said between greeted teeth, “but it's hard when you keep asking me to hand you the tools! Move your damn ass, asshole.”

The day after the course, which ended up being surprisingly useful for Taehyung as, apparently, three months old can't drink water!, they went shopping for the chicken nugget. 

It had been such an adventure, navigating corridors and corridors full of cute little pyjamas, shoes and fluffy teddies, that it had been hard to control themselves. They had bought so many toys and clothes, now drying on the porch, that they had to buy extra storage furniture, which had just arrived a few hours ago. 

“Give me the short screws.” Jeongguk demanded.

“Magic word?” Taehyung raised a brow, arms crossed on his chest.

“Fuck you.”

“Ha! You wish you could get my ass, Jeon.”

“Not even in my worst nightmares.” The alpha rolled his eyes and grabbed the stuff he needed himself.

As the pup was sound asleep on the stroller, they had decided to take the time to decorate the nursery and build the baby's new wardrobe. But after three days into the new routine, and now confined in a small space having to work together, the atmosphere was not the most cheerful.

“Did you really have to buy so much?” 

“I don't know,” Taehyung huffed, “but do you really need to talk so much?”

“You are so unlikeable.”

“Sure,” Taehyung nodded ironically, then pointed at the drawer the alpha was building. “You are doing it wrong! I said ‘put the short screw on the small right hole’, not whatever you are doing!”

“You didn't say that!”

“And you call yourself an alpha, when you can even build a simple closet for your pup?” Taehyung huffed, exasperated, “Move,  Jeon. I'll do it myself.” 

He went to pull the screwdriver from Jeongguk’s grasp, who resisted, and their fingers brushed for a brief second, so close to each other that Jeongguk's scent filled Taehyung's lungs. Their bodies involuntarily tensed, eyes widened at the touch and proximity, and Taehyung jumped away as if he had been hurt. 

The tool falling to the floor produced a high, metal sound that echoed through the house. They both held their breaths, hoping that the potato wouldn't wake up, not daring to move. 

Silence.

They sighed relieved.

“Such a show you made just to hold my hand. You almost woke Ji-un up.”

“I would rather be buried alive than hold your hand, thanks.” Taehyung turned and grabbed the screwdriver, but Jeongguk's warmth lingered on his skin.

To the alpha's surprise, Taehyung managed to finish building the wardrobe on his own in a matter of minutes. The omega held and used the tools with quite a precision that the alpha didn't have. 

“I used to work at my father's woodshop.” He shared a part of himself, as the alpha's eyes followed his every move. The question had been written on Jeongguk’s face, one Taehyung knew he wasn't going to ask.

“I see.” He simply replied.

“Help me lift this. It's too heavy.”

“Magic word?” Jeongguk teased.

“What was it?” Taehyung pretended to think about it. “Fuck you?”

Jeongguk chuckled, “Let's finish this already.”

《☆》

The first snow of December brought the arrival of the Frostfang Pack, one of their strongest and ferocious allies, for the upcoming celebrations. 

Taehyung was not very fond of those wolves; their alphas were rude and prideful, their omegas obedient and submissive. A pack very much stuck on traditional models and subgender hierarchy, Taehyung's biggest nightmare.

But as all bad things, the Frostfang Pack hid something good and precious, or better said, someone.

“Hyung!” Taehyung yelled, arm above his head, weaving to catch the beta's attention like a schoolboy. 

“Taehyungah!” The beta walked faster upon having spotted his friend, waving back.

“Can't believe it's been a year already!” Taehyung's smile could brighten a whole village.

“I'm so happy to be back.” Bogum engulfed him in a tight hug, in which Taehyung melted.

“Hyung, how have you been?” 

Even if they broke the hug, they remained close, in the space of the other. Bogum and Taehyung were just like that, two magnets only connecting during the Christmas celebrations their packs did together.

“It's been good, I would say. Not much changed. What about you?”

“Definitely, things did change here. It's complicated,” Taehyung sighed. “But let's go grab something warm to drink first. I was freezing here!”

Taehyung tangled his arm with Bogum's, dragging him excitedly around the white, snow-covered streets. On each corner, children gathered to build snowmen, others throwing ice-cold, hand-made balls left and right.

“Are we going to Jimin's coffee place?”

“Of course,” Taehyung smiled. “Where else?”

Taehyung pushed the door open with his free hand, the other arm still tangled with Bogum's, and entered the shop with a glow of his own, one that had been stolen from him during the past four weeks. Having his hyung back, Taehyung felt more at ease, more himself again. 

Parenthood was hard, but parenthood with Jeon Jeongguk was harder. Taehyung was exhausted, and most of the time he felt like he was drowning in responsibilities and dirty diapers. 

He could barely remember a night in which he slept all in one go, or a lazy morning in which he had breakfast at 11am. Now everything felt rushed, jumping out of the bed to feed the baby, to change his diaper or to do all the pup's laundry. Who would have thought that babies can be so damn messy? 

At least they had agreed, they would go two or three days to work each, alternating as one stayed with Ji-un at home. These days going back to work was the only escape he had found, as sad as it sounded.

Taehyung smelled the alpha before he could see him, and grunted. “Great, he's here.”

He could feel Jeon's eyes on him, following every of his and Bogum's movements until they sat on a table. When he looked back, Ji-un was in the alpha's arms, drool running down his chin, eyes round and big, his black hair had grown a little. If it wasn't because Taehyung knew better, he would have thought the pup and the alpha were related by blood. 

The potato bag kicked his legs in the air and looked for the omega in the crowd upon smelling him. Taehyung involuntarily smiled, his heart jumping of excitement on his chest.

Parenting was hard, but sometimes, small times tho, it was rewarding.

“Is that Jeon Jeongguk holding a pup?” Bogum leaned on the table, whispering.

“Yeah.”

“Things have definitely changed! Who is the poor, stupid omega who got pregnant by Jeon?”

“I— I don't know.” Taehyung couldn't find the words, didn't want to. With Bogum he could be just Taehyung, old, carefree Taehyung, not this new version of himself shaped by lack of sleep, milk bottles and paediatrician appointments.

Thankfully, Bogum didn't dig more into it. He dropped the topic, and they started a more cheerful conversation as Jimin brought their orders to the table. He joined them for some minutes, before having to go back behind the counter.

“I didn't want to ask him, because I didn't want to seem rude if it wasn't the case,” Bogum started, “but is Jimin pregnant?”

“Oh hyung, he is not! Thank goodness you didn't mention it, he would have killed you!”

Bogum paled, as Taehyung erupted in a loud, bright laugh.

“Of course he is, dummy! He is due next May or so.”

Bogum pushed his shoulder, “You are so mean, Taehyung-ah! Is everyone having pups except us?”

Taehyung's pretty smile faded. “Yeah, right?”

He locked eyes with a certain alpha, and to his dismay he was walking towards them.

“Kim,” Jeongguk called, eyes sharp, “Baby wants to go with mommy.” He passed the pup, Taehyung grabbed him on reflex.

Bogum choked on his coffee, droplets staining the table. His eyes widened, “You are kidding, right?”

“See you later at home,” Jeongguk said before Taehyung could reply. Then turned to Bogum before leaving, fake politeness in his tone. “Good to see you, Park.”

“Taehyungah? What's going on?”

The baby giggled, hands mapping Taehyung’s face, his mouth trying to catch his nose and cover him in drool.

“Surprise?” Taehyung made a wry face.

Bogum shook his head, “I should have expected it, all that tension…,” he let go a deep breath, “Wow, so Jeon knocked you up…”

“What!?” Taehyung's eyes widened, horrified, “Ew! Disgusting! Ji-un is not my biological child!”

“Huh?” 

“You see… It's complicated. Jeon and I are his guardians now,” Taehyung sighed, placing the baby on his lap. “Pack rules and so.”

“Oh,” Bogum's expression saddened as the words kicked in. “Oh, poor pup.”

“Hey!” Taehyung's eyebrows knit, slightly offended. “We are doing a great job!”

“I didn’t mean it like that!” Bogum moved his hands, “Just— it's a tough situation for someone so small to lose his parents.”

Taehyung looked at the pup, who was giggling at him. He felt his heart squeezing in his chest. For Taehyung he was just a responsibility he couldn't escape, but for the pup Taehyung and Jeongguk were his whole world. 

The realization stung. “Yeah. I guess.”

“I never thought I would live to see you with a pup,” Bogum smiled, “I must say, tho, it looks good on you.”

“What do you mean?” Taehyung tilted his head, confused.

“Holding a pup. You look— good.”

Taehyung smirked, “Does it make me look desirable?”

“You have always been,” Bogum’s ears turned crimson, he cleared his throat, “But it adds a softness to you, somehow.”

《☆》

Taehyung looked at his reflection in the mirror, and after what had felt like ages, this time he liked what he saw. He grinned, his brown hair parted to the side, wavy on the ends. His jeans hugged his thighs and ass perfectly, his beige shirt tucked inside. He grabbed his brown jacket from the closet, a blue scarf too, and left his room. He smelled like jasmine flowers in bloom season, happy.

“Ji-unah.” He called, the pup's eyes darted to him. 

Jeongguk also turned with the pup in his arms, tight against his chest. “Are you going somewhere?” He scanned him from head to toes, his tongue wetting his lower lip.

“We,” He corrected, walking towards them. Jeongguk seemed confused, so he quickly added, “Me and Ji-unie, I mean.”

The alpha's brows knitted, his tattooed hand protecting the baby's unstable head, “You are taking the pup… on your own will?”

“Come on, Jeon. Don't make me sound like a horrible person!”

“But you are a horrible person.”

“Just give me the baby.”

“Why so eager?” He raised a brow, questioning.

The omega’s cheeks turned crimson, “Not your business.”

But that only fueled the alpha’s curiosity.

Jeongguk pushed, “Not gonna hand him over unless you tell me. Right now.”

“For God’s sake!” Taehyung grunted, “I got told I look good holding a pup, okay? Now, give him to me.”

“Who said that?”

“Who cares?”

“Kim,” The alpha glared, his eyes cold as ice. “Who said that?”

“Bogum,” Taehyung sighed, exasperated. “Seriously, what's with all this interrogation?”

“Unbelievable. That bastard,” Jeongguk muttered, then pushed his tongue against his cheek. “Are you bringing the pup to get laid? Seriously, that's even lower than I expected you to go.”

“What!?” Taehyung raised his voice, offended. “Shut the fuck up! I do not! I just— it makes me feel—” Like a real omega, but he didn't say it. How could he? “You wouldn't get it.

“Try me.”

“I don't want to,” Taehyung clenched his jaw, his scent turning bitter, agitating the baby. “You can think whatever you want from me, but I'd never put Ji-un in danger or in a weird situation. I'm just gonna meet Jimin and I'm taking him with me, like it or not.”

Jeongguk raised an eyebrow, “Is that a threat?”

“Only if you want it to be.” Taehyung said coldly. His eyes were sharp, but his hands wrapped around the pup gently.

Ji-un squealed happily in his embrace, and Taehyung's scent turned sweeter. He smiled, kissing him on the forehead, and then prepared him to go, grabbing a milk bottle and some diapers just in case.

He left without sparing another look at the alpha.

《☆》

“Are you okay?” Jimin ended up asking, as Taehyung had been distracted the whole evening.

After a lot of thinking about plans with a pup and a pregnant omega, they had decided to simply go to the mall. Four months into pregnancy, Jimin got too tired from time to time, and that gave them a warm place to sit and rest, while still being entertained enough. 

They were in one of the benches in front of the thrift store where Taehyung had bought some decorations for his room, sipping from their smoothies.

“That asshole of an alpha sure knows how to upset an omega,” Taehyung said with greeted teeth. “But nevermind, I don't think you want me to talk about him.”

The good mood he had left his room with, had been stolen before leaving the house. Instead of good looking, Taehyung felt ridiculous. He was an omega, pups or not, and one proud for having a strong personality and standing up for himself. He was handsome too, no need to carry anything or anyone, he knew that, but right now he felt so small, a fraud.

“Oh no, Tae,” Jimin placed both hands on the other omega's shoulders, caging the pup and Jimin's belly between their bodies. “Jeongguk is my friend, but you are my soulmate. What happened?”

“Nothing out of the ordinary,” Taehyung shook his head, “I seriously don't know how you stand him.”

“He is actually a very nice and kind person, when you are not around.”

Taehyung raised both his eyebrows, “Are you insinuating I'm the problem? Oh wow, thanks, bestie!”

“Of course not! And don't go all drama queen on me!” The blond omega offered a stern look. “I think he— Nevermind.”

“Nevermind?” Taehyung couldn't cross his arms defensively, as the pup was hanging on the carrier in his chest, sleeping, “Spill the tea. You think what, Jimin?”

The omega sighed. “I think he is attracted to you.”

Taehyung choked on his drink. He coughed. 

“Are you still with that?”

It wasn't the first time his best friend had brought this topic up, but it had been at least a year since Taehyung last heard of it. This time around, however, he added something else.

“But I also think,” Jimin made a small pause, as if questioning himself if he should finish the sentence, “that you are into him as well.”

“What the hell do they put on these things?” Taehyung lifted the plastic cup, inspecting it for drugs.

“Tae…” Jimin warned. “I'm your soulmate, you can open up to me. You both raise together a pup now and it's normal to—”

“Okay, let me stop you right there,” Taehyung raised his palms, “I think we should go to the doctor. You might be having a stroke or something.”

“Who do you like then?”

“Why do I need to like someone?” Taehyung questioned. “Some people are happy alone, Jimin.”

“I know,” Jimin nodded. “But I also know you, and lately you are not. Happy, I mean.”

“No shit, Sherlock,” Taehyung scoffed, “I have a child and I'm living with Jeon. And there's no way out of this. It has nothing to do with me being single.”

“Is it Bogum-hyung?”

“Are you listening to anything I say?”

“I saw the way he looked at you.”

“Okay,” Taehyung blushed, sighed. “I saw it too.”

“Then?” Jimin smirked.

“No, Jimin,” Taehyung shook his head, cheeks still warm. “He is lovely and I feel flattered, but I don't see him that way.”

“Oh,” Jimin made a pout. “Then Jeongguk?”

“Oh my God,” Taehyung rolled his eyes. “No! Never! Ew. Disgusting. Seriously, why would you even entertain that thought?”

“Okay. Got it,” Jimin sighed. “I just want you to be happy, Tae. But I don't know how to help you.”

“I know, Mimi,” Taehyung held Jimin's hand and squeezed it with affection. “You being my best friend is all I need.”

“Pregnancy makes me emotional,” Jimin said, eyes shiny. “Fuck. I love you, Taehyung.”

“I love you too.”

“Enough,” Jimin gently pulled his hand out of Taehyung’s, and rubbed his eyes. “Let's go. I'll drive you home. I feel like being cuddled by Yoongi right now. I miss him. Oh God, fucking hormones. I feel all needy and clingy. Ugh.”

Taehyung laughed, “See? Why would I want something like that for myself?”

“One day, you'll see.”

“When hell freezes over.”

“You know, this might be—”

“One hell of a cold winter. I know,” Taehyung smiled, remembering Yoongi's words. “But it won't.”

But it was. 

The moment they crossed the exit doors, a freezing, strong wind hit them in the face. Taehyung wrapped his jacket around the pup, checked that his little hat was still on, and walked towards Jimin's car with his face low, the wind carrying small ice particles, cutting into his skin like daggers.

“Fuck,” Taehyung muttered. “It's freezing!”

Eyes focused on the snow-covered street under his feet, careful not to trip, Taehyung didn't realize he bumped into someone.

“Hey!” The alpha grunted. “Mind your steps, omega.”

When Taehyung raised his face, Jimin a good fifteen meters behind him, he found not one, but three alphas from the Frostfang Pack staring at him and cutting his way.

Oh, shit.

“Look at this,” one of them smirked, “What a doll. We just got lucky tonight.”

“You wish, asshole.” Taehyung lifted his chin.

“A mouthy, bratty omega?” Another one scoffed,  eyes glistening in interest. “That's new. Bet he moans shamelessly in bed.”

Feeling a change in Taehyung's heartbeat, the baby woke up and complained. Taehyung shushed him, eyes not leaving these three.

“Move out of my way.”

“You have no mark, do you?” The first alpha took a step closer, fingers pulling at his blue scarf to reveal a smooth neck. It was barely a touch, knuckles gracing his scent gland, but Taehyung flinched, restless as his personal space was being invaded. “I guessed right. You don't smell like an alpha either, and yet, you carry a pup. No alpha will take you seriously now, and that can only mean one thing…”

“Your legs are wide open,” They laughed. “Free entrance and entertainment.”

Having a pup, Taehyung realized, made you less reckless. By now, he would  have already  spit on their pathetic faces, but with Ji-un being  his responsibility, he couldn't risk the consequences, he couldn't put him in danger.

“Shut up,’’ Taehyung's jaw tightened. “You know nothing about me. Move.”

“Bet you could take us three at the same time.” Another one said taking a step closer, and the look on his eyes turned Taehyung's stomach upside down.

He felt like vomiting.

Jimin arrived at that moment, hand on Taehyung's back. “What's going on here?”

The alphas must have smelled the scent of Yoongi lingering in Jimin, or noticed the mark he proudly had on his neck and never covered, because they took a step back.

“Just admiring the view.” One of them said.

“You don't want problems with my Yoons,” Jimin looked at them, a warning look on his face. “He wouldn't blink an eye to protect both of us. Now, move.”

The alphas greeted their teeth, feeling powerless against an alpha on his own territory. An alpha's fight could risk their packs’ alliance.

“Have a goodnight, ladies.”

Jimin grabbed Taehyung's hand and pulled him once the men made space for them, not stopping until they were inside the car.

“Are you okay?” Jimin turned concerned to the backseats, “I'm sorry it took me so long—”

“It's okay, Mimi. Not your fault.” Taehyung reassured him. 

“I heard some of it, and it's bullshit. Ugh. I'm so upset right now. Tae, don't let—”

Jimin's sour scent was all over the car, the pup complained in his car seat.

“Can you drive me home now?” Taehyung interrupted him, eyes looking out the window, hand soothing the pup.

He had read about distress during pregnancy in one of the books, and he couldn't bear it in himself to put Jimin through that.

His best friend opened his mouth to say something, perhaps to ask again how he was feeling, but he didn't.

He nodded. “Yes. Of course, Tae.”

 《☆》

Taehyung left Jimin's car with a reassuring smile, which faded as soon as he turned his back. He hugged the pup closer to his chest, seeking the comfort he couldn't ask his best friend to give him.

The pup giggled, content at receiving Taehyung’s attention, and the omega felt like tearing up. But he didn't, not when he had to walk into his and Jeon's home and pretend he was all about strength and pride, which truth be said he was, but sometimes he also was insecure and weak, and that was something he wouldn't let it show, especially not in front of Jeon.

He gathered the broken pieces of his pride, and glued them together.

Jeongguk greeted him with a nod of his head, but Taehyung ignored him, hanging his jacket and removing all the warm clothes on the baby.

“How was it?”

“Save it, Jeon,” Taehyung rolled his eyes. He placed Ji-un on top of the playing mat and gave him one of his toys. “We never make small talk, and we aren't gonna start now.”

“Right.”

Taehyung stared at him, something was off, did he smell his distress? Fine, he didn't have any strength left to be concerned right now.

“I'll take a shower,” He said, “Look after the pup. He might be hungry again soon.”

Taehyung went to the kitchen to trash his blue scarf, his favorite scarf, and headed to his room to leave the bag and grab some clothes. 

He felt Jeongguk's eyes on him when he shut the door of the bathroom.

Taehyung scrubbed his body as hard as he could, especially the area around his neck. He hissed, the water damaging his skin, painting it vivid red. The alpha's fingers had barely graced the flesh there when he pulled his scarf, but the ghost of the contact burned more than the hot stream running down his body. 

It hurt, and still it didn't hurt enough. He tensed his jaw, covered his face, and cried.

Cried because he felt powerless. Cried because it was unfair. Cried because deep down, a little part of him wanted to be loved for who he was. Cried because he felt so lonely, because he was exhausted. 

He just let himself cry, for all the times he held his tears.

When he left the bathroom, he rushed to his room, his eyes still swollen. There was no way in heaven nor hell Taehyung was gonna let the alpha see him like that, he still had some pride left, although he was sure, by now he probably had felt his sorrow.

But he wouldn't care, why would he? And Taehyung, definitely, didn't need nor want him to.

But to his surprise, the alpha stood behind his door one hour later. Taehyung knew he was there before he could knock.

“What do you want, Jeon?”

“May I?” 

“No.”

“Yoongi called me. We spoke.”

“Glad to see you know how to use a phone.”

“Why didn't you tell me?” 

The omega swallowed, “I don't know what you are talking about.”

“Taehyung…”

His heart skipped a beat upon hearing his name on the alpha's lips.

“Why didn't you tell me?” He asked again, voice low.

“I didn't know we were suddenly friends now,” There was no way of denying it, Jeongguk knew. “And the pup is okay, Jeon. Nothing happened to him.”

“I know, but what about you?” Jeongguk's jaw clenched. “What they said about you and how they treated you was not right. Taehyung, please—”

There it was again, his name. A few hours ago and for years he had only been Kim, and now, out of nowhere, the sound of his name in Jeongguk's voice felt like a drug.

“I don't need your pity, Jeon.”

“It's not pity,” Jeongguk sighed. “Let me in?”

“Are you worried about me?” He mocked, didn't open the door. “There's nothing you can do that changes the fact that I'm an unmated omega with a pup. Are you gonna beat them up for me? Is that what you all alphas do?”

“Would you want me to?” When Taehyung didn't reply, he continued, “You should inform Namjoon, he should kick that pack right out.”

“You know we can't afford it. You know they are politically stronger than us,” Taehyung shook his head, exasperated. “Just drop it.”

“Still, you should inform him. I'm sure there's something he can do.”

“I'll think about it.”

Jeongguk sighed, “Let me scent you whenever you leave the house.”

Taehyung choked, then swiftly opened the door. The alpha stood there, his eyes telling Taehyung he wasn't joking.

“What!? Are you out of your mind?” 

“No, I'm not,” Jeongguk's confidence gave him goosebumps. “At least wear my clothes before leaving. I'll leave my scent on them. No one will dare to bother you.”

“Should I also write your name with a marker on my forehead?”

“I'm being serious, Taehyung.”

Again.

“Me too, Jeon.”

“Just until they leave, after the celebrations.”

“That's two more weeks! What if I don't want to?” Taehyung crossed his arms around his middle, “Have you considered that?”

“Please,” Jeongguk had used that word twice by now, two times more than he had in all their past interactions, “Just do it.”

When Taehyung didn't answer, Jeongguk's expression changed.

“Do you seriously hate my scent so much,” He grabbed Taehyung's wrist and pulled him closer, “that you would rather be harassed again?”

Taehyung didn't meet his eyes, how could he when the alpha sounded so hurt? This felt like a weird, twisted nightmare.

“No. It's not that. Your scent is almost tolerable by now.”

“Then?” Jeongguk asked, unconsciously rubbing his thumb on Taehyung's wrist.

“It's you,” Taehyung bit his lower lip, “I can't go around smelling like /you/.”

“Why not?” Jeongguk's grip tightened around his skin. “Why not, Taehyung?”

Taehyung took a deep breath, his lungs filling with mint and oranges, his own floral scent twirling and mixing with it.

True, why not? Was it because he loathed the alpha? Or because he just went through a hard situation and was terrified of his omega getting used to associate his scent with  comfort?

“Please,” Jeongguk pulled him closer, “If— If I can't protect you both… I feel useless. My alpha is going insane and he feels responsible. You know how biology works, I can't control my instincts. It kills me inside.”

Taehyung shouldn't care, why would he?

“Okay. Fine,’’ Taehyung found himself saying. “Only the clothes. Don't you dare scent me yourself. And stop touching me.” He pulled his arm away.

“Right,’’ Jeongguk scratched the back of his neck. “I'll go find some pullovers.”

《☆》

Taehyung decided not to leave home for the next few days. He didn't want to, there was no need, and it was too cold anyway. The pullovers of Jeongguk were still neatly folded over his desk, his smell still lingered, but now less strong. Taehyung hadn't dared touch them since the alpha had handed them over.

However, on the third day Jimin had insisted they all should go together to see the Christmas market and the Christmas lights before the upcoming celebration next week. 

Taehyung left his room in one of his jerseys, the alpha knit his eyebrows upon seeing him.

“Why are you not wearing my clothes?”

“Why would I?”

“You promised, Kim. Remember?” Jeongguk scowled him.

“But we are going together, aren't we?” He rolled his eyes.

“What if we part ways at some point?”

“Fine,” Taehyung huffed, exasperated. “I'll go change.”

He grabbed the piece of cloth in his hands, the one he deliberately hadn't put on earlier. He looked at it for a second and without processing his actions or its meaning he brought it to his nose. Mint and oranges embraced him, just as realization hit him.

Was he sniffing Jeongguk's clothes? Okay, that was weird.

He shook his head and looked back at the open door of his room, terrified, but Jeongguk wasn't around. He quickly removed his sweater and put on Jeongguk’s dark blue pullover on top of his white shirt, mentally scolding himself. 

“Happy now?” He exhaled sharply, walking into the living room. 

The pullover was too big on his shoulders, making him look petite, although he was only a few centimetres smaller than Jeongguk.

The alpha didn't say anything, just stared at him for a few seconds too long.

“So?” Taehyung pushed, and then realized that he was waiting for a compliment that should never come, one that he shouldn't seek either. “Whatever. Let's go.”

“You look— good,” Jeongguk finally said, hands in fists on each side of his body. “You smell like me.”

Taehyung's heart fluttered in his chest, failing him. He swallowed, and turned before the alpha could see the heat on his cheeks. 

“I know I look good. I always do.”

Jeongguk scoffed, but it sounded playful.

Taehyung put on his jacket and then the fluffy blanket on top of Ji-un, who lay down on his stroller, eyes wide and observing them. He tucked him softly and kissed the tip of his nose, making him giggle.

When they stepped outside, the sky was clean of clouds and already covered in stars.

“Wow,” Taehyung muttered, looking up. “So pretty.”

“Pretty indeed.” Jeongguk let out a deep breath.

When Taehyung turned to look at him, their eyes locked.

《☆》

“Sadly this year we couldn't see each other so often,” Bogum smiled but it didn't reach his eyes. “I'm leaving in three days, after the Christmas celebration.”

Taehyung stopped walking, then looked at him. “So soon? Hyung, no! Stay a little longer! What about my birthday?”

Bogum held Taehyung's hand covered by his glove, squeezing it for a second, then he let it go.

“I'm a beta, I can't catch scents as strong as you all do,” He started, Taehyung frowned confused, “But I can tell that black pullover is Jeon's. And I'm sure it smells like him.”

Taehyung's mouth parted, his ears painted red. “It's not—”

“It's not, what, Tae?” Bogum laughed softly, but it wasn't honest. He seemed hurt. “What it looks like?”

Taehyung nodded. “I have to, so other alphas don't bother me!”

“Even if it's like that, and I'm deeply sorry for what happened with those jerks,” Bogum sighed, “I know how this will end. And there's a pup in between.”

“It's our duty, hyung. We don't do this because we want to! If I could, I would stop.”

As soon as the words left his mouth, Taehyung knew it was not true.

“Would you, tho?”

Silence.

“Taehyung,” Bogum's eyes were gentle, “I saw the way you look at Ji-un, the way you take care of him. It might have started as an obligation, but is he now?”

Taehyung shook his head slowly, unaware of when or how that pooping machine had become his whole world too, despite raising him being the hardest thing Taehyung had ever done.

“I know Jeon doesn't like me, so I better remove myself from the picture. Make things easier.”

“What? Why?” Taehyung shook his head, hands grabbing Bogum's shoulders. “Who cares if he doesn't like you? No one asked him his opinion, anyway.”

“But do you?”

“Do I what?” Taehyung looked at him confused, letting him go.

“Like me, Tae,” Bogum's eyes held a little hope, “Do you like me?”

Taehyung swallowed, his heart racing fast in his chest. Did he? He knew what he had told Jimin, but he also knew how badly he wanted to be loved by someone. And Bogum was sweet, caring and funny. And Taehyung never gave a damn about subgenders. The beta was smart and handsome, too. 

But did he like him?

“I—” Taehyung stuttered, “Like a friend?”

Bogum giggled, “I always knew I didn't stand a chance. I'm not surprised.”

“Hyung…” Taehyung didn't know what to say, how to comfort him. Deep down, he also knew.

“I just would have never guessed I would lose to Jeon, from all wolves!”

“You got it all wrong!” Taehyung huffed. “Why do you all keep shipping us! Your ship will not sail, I'm telling you!”

“Sure, pup,” Bogum ruffled the omega's brown strands. “Walk you home?”

They walked slowly, knowing perhaps it would be their last time alone for a long, long time if not ever. They talked about nothing and everything while the snow crunched underneath their feet.

“Why didn't your brother come this year?” Taehyung asked at some point. “I miss his silly jokes.”

“We had some bad cases of a new virus,” Bogum informed, “He had to stay behind.”

“Is he sick!?”

“Oh, no!” Bogum quickly corrected. “Jin finished his studies already. He is finally a doctor. A great one, I must say!”

“Oh, gosh!” Taehyung sighed. “You scared me!”

“Oops.”

“Send him greetings, will you?”

“Will do.”

Eventually they came to a halt, the omega's house in front of them.

“I'll see you at the party?” Taehyung asked unsure, voice low.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea, I guess you’ll celebrate with Jeon now…’’ Bogum smiled, scratching his neck.

Taehyung smiled, sad but understanding. ‘’I’ll miss you, hyung.’’

If after today Bogum needed some time to himself, Taehyung would support that. After all, they were friends.

‘’I’ll miss you too, little one,’’ Bogum smiled fondly, ‘’By the way, Jeon is looking at us through the window.” 

Taehyung tried to turn, but Bogum engulfed him in a tight hug. 

“Hyung?”

“Kiss my cheek.” Bogum whispered in his ear. 

“What?”

“If he is in a bad mood when you enter, you'll know why.”

Upon hearing that and without knowing why, Taehyung pushed himself a little from Bogum's chest and left a soft kiss on his skin.

“Good night, hyung.”

Two minutes later when he stepped in the living room, the pup was crying and the room smelled of bitter oranges and mint.

Jeongguk was upset.

《☆》

On Christmas Eve everyone gathered at the town's main square, which had been beautifully decorated with colourful lights and a huge Christmas tree. There were also different foodtrucks that looked like wood houses scattered around the place, Taehyung made a mental note to approach the hot chocolate one after dinner, and big, long tables in the middle so people could mingle.

With the two clans there together, the atmosphere was bubbly and louder than usual. Everyone wanted to eat, drink and have fun. Some people even danced around the fire on the far corner, while others sat on the benches singing carols. Taehyung spotted Bogum in the distance, surrounded by some wolves from his pack. For a second there, his chest felt tight. For years now, they had always celebrated Christmas together.

“What do you guys want to eat?” Yoongi asked them, hand holding Jimin's. 

“I want fries and corndogs and turkey and—”

“I'll get you a little of everything, okay, my love?” Yoongi gently cut off his omega before the list could continue, “You can find a seat for us,” He kissed his mate's forehead. “You two?”

“Seafood.” Taehyung and Jeongguk replied at the same time, then looked at each other.

Jeongguk cleared his throat, “You can go ahead with Jimin and the pup, I'll bring you yours. What exactly do you want?''

Taehyung blinked, surprised by the altruistic offer.

“The lobster risotto.” He said, too taken aback to even thank him.

Jeongguk nodded and turned around, heading with Yoongi to their respective food-houses.

“What was that?” Jimin raised an eyebrow, mischievous grin on his face.

“I don't know,” Taehyung shrugged his shoulders. “A Christmas’ spirit possession?”

Jimin pushed his shoulder playfully, “Come, let's find a seat.”

They sat at the end of one of the tables, closer to the big tree, which had more space for the stroller.

“I also noticed the other day that you started wearing his clothes.” Jimin pointed out.

“That's just—” Taehyung looked around, “because of what happened. You know.”

“I guessed so, but still I'm surprised you agreed,” Jimin held his hand on top of the table. “How are you? I didn't want to push you that day.”

“I'm doing fine now,” Taehyung smiled, “I talked to Namjoon about it, and he demanded the other pack to find them and send them back home.”

“They deserved more than that. Their balls should be ornaments hanging from this tree.”

Taehyung laughed and squeezed Jimin's hand, “I know. But it's not in Namjoon's hands to punish wolves from other packs. I'm sure Jeongguk would have done it, tho, if I had asked.”

“‘Jeongguk’, you said?” His best friend's eyes widened.

Taehyung gasped. “I meant to say ‘Jeon’!”

The word had felt so good on his tongue, it had slipped before his brain could register it.

“But you didn't,” Jimin smirked, teased. “You said ‘Jeongguk’. You called him by his name.”

“Let me be, I've been sleep deprived for weeks!” Taehyung shook his head. “It just slipped. That's it. Don't dwell on it.”

“Oh,” Jimin kept that smile on his face, as if it was permanent, “But I will dwell on it. And remind you until my last day.”

“Can't an exhausted man make a mistake?” Taehyung rolled his eyes, “Seriously, it's not that deep!”

“It is! Of course it is!” The last time Taehyung saw Jimin this excited was when he had informed him about his pregnancy. “You've known him for five years, and this is the first time you call him by his name, Taehyung!”

“Whose name?” Yoongi asked, a tray full of a variety of dishes in hand. He sat next to his mate, and placed the tray between them.

His brother followed, sitting next to Taehyung.

“Don't you dare, Jimin.” He warned.

Jimin smiled, “Sorry. It's an omegas only conversation,” He said, then he whispered in Yoongi's ear, “I'll tell you later at home, babe. It's something huge!”

“Jimin!” Taehyung called him between his teeth.

Jeongguk placed a plate in front of him. “I didn't know if you like it spicy, Kim, so I asked them to put the sauce aside.”

“Oh,” Taehyung blushed. Since when was the alpha so thoughtful and caring?, “Thank you, I guess?”

“Taehyung can't handle spicy food,” Jimin added, winking at Taehyung. “So that was very kind of you, /Jeongguk/.’’ He marked the word.

Taehyung glared at the omega, Jeongguk raised an eyebrow.

“Let's eat?” Yoongi said.

Taehyung felt self-aware of every word coming out of his mouth, Jimin's shining eyes on him, a smirk on his face.

“—ilk bottle,” He heard Jeongguk say, but couldn't register it as he was trying to win whatever eye contest he had unconsciously started with Jimin. “Kim?”

“Huh?” He turned to him suddenly, the alpha's face too close to his, noses almost brushing. He jumped back on his seat.

“What's wrong with you?” Jeongguk furrowed.

“I ask myself the same thing.” Jimin added.

“Shut up.” Taehyung huffed at the omega, then looked at Jeongguk. “What do you want, Jeon?”

“I asked you to pass me the milk bottle.”

“Oh. Sure.”

He heard Jimin giggling, playing with his head. And the night followed like that, but at some point Jimin forgot all about it, as the time for everyone to open their presents arrived. And it was better that way, because Taehyung couldn't even imagine the scene he would have made seeing Jeongguk offering Taehyung a Christmas gift.

“For me?” He pointed to himself, brows knitted. “Are you sure?”

The alpha stood there, “I'm not sure, but it’s too late now to take it back.”

“You bought something… for me?”

The alpha grunted, as if embarrassed. “Just take it, Kim. Will you?”

Taehyung obeyed, hands trembling slightly. “I don't have anything for you.”

“I know.”

“But you have something for me.”

Jeongguk sighed, exasperated, “Just open it, Kim.”

He blinked, still astonished. He ripped the brown gift paper, revealing a fluffy blue scarf, similar to the one he trashed, but better, softer, prettier. 

“I—”

“Don't say anything.” Jeongguk took the piece of cloth from Taehyung's hands, and put it around his neck, rolling it and covering his mouth and nose.

It smelled like oranges and mint— Had Jeongguk scented it for him?

When Taehyung opened his mouth to say something, anything, the first firework exploded in the night, snatching the opportunity from him.

The colors on the sky were mesmerising, but even more so was how they reflected on Jeongguk’s eyes.

Taehyung took a deep breath, the alpha's scent filling his lungs. His omega purred in his chest, delighted. He— he was getting used to this, to the scent, to the proximity.

Taehyung swallowed terrified.

《☆》

Four days after his birthday, which he had celebrated with a small dinner at home surrounded by his loved ones and Jeongguk, they received an unexpected visit.

“Mom? Dad?” He heard the alpha say in disbelief. “What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be in Europe?”

“We cut our trip short when we heard the news!” A female voice said, welcoming herself inside. “Where is the little pup?”

“Congratulations, Jeongguk. We are proud of you.” A man added.

“Then you sure know, he is not my biological child.”

“Nonsense,” Taehyung catched a glimpse of the old woman, now hugging the alpha. “A son is a son, no matter where it comes from.”

“If I had known you'd be so thrilled, I would have sent you a message myself,” Jeongguk seemed surprised by his mother's effusiveness. He brought them to the living room. “Meet Kim Taehyung, and little Ji-un.”

“Nice to meet you.” Taehyung bowed with his head, pup in his arms, when he felt delicate hands in his shoulders.

“Oh for the Moon Goddess, look at me.” The woman grinned, “You are such a handsome young man, don't you dare lower your face for me.”

Taehyung opened and closed his mouth. He was left speechless. 

He had heard about the Jeon couple from Jimin, but since they lived mostly overseas, he had never crossed paths with them. They lived up to what was said, such a cheerful old pair they seemed.

“Is my Jeonggukie treating you well?” She asked.

“We take pride in how well we educate him,” The man said, “he should be nothing less than a gentleman to his omega.”

Taehyung's curious eyes caught Jeongguk's troubled ones, he opened his mouth to reply, but the alpha cut him to it.

“Can I talk to you for a second?” 

Taehyung raised an eyebrow and handed the pup to the woman. “If you excuse us, we'll be back shortly,” He smiled politely. “Please, feel yourself at home.”

Impatient, the alpha grabbed his wrist and pulled him to his room, closing the door.

To his surprise, the alpha's room was tidied, the bed done. Nothing was out of place, no dirty clothes on the floor or the chair, no coffee cups on his desk either. So different from Taehyung's room.

Jeongguk's scent engulfed him, strong and all over the place. For a tiny second, and now that the Frostfang Pack had left and his scarf no longer smelled like the alpha, Taehyung missed it clinging to his own skin. He discarded the thought and pushed it down as quickly as it had arisen. 

He cleared his throat. 

“So, is the gentleman here in the room with us? I would like to speak to him.”

“Shut up, Kim,” Jeongguk huffed. “I think I've been pretty well-behaved with you lately.”

That was true, and still felt surreal.

“That doesn't erase all the years you were an asshole, tho. Should I tell your parents?”

“What about you?” Jeongguk bit back, “Always at my throat! You and your infinite comebacks.”

“But I'm your omega now?”

Jeongguk's eyes widened, he choked, abruptly letting go Taehyung’s wrist.

“What did you just say?”

“That's what your parents said. Does little Jeonggukie have a crush on me?” Taehyung teased.

“You wish, Kim,” Jeongguk replied way too quickly, too rushed. “Whatever.” He then groaned, “I didn't bring you here to fight with you. But old habits die hard, I guess.''

Taehyung sighed, truth is he also didn't want to fight, “What do you want, Jeon?”

“I want you to pretend we are dating, until my parents leave. And don't mention our— constant bickering, please.”

Taehyung laughed, then stopped abruptly. “Wait— Are you being for real?”

“I really don't want to deal with their disappointment now,” Jeongguk sighed. “They have been after me for ages, praying to The Moon Goddess to bless me with a partner. If they realise that because of this arrangement we are in I won't get to find one… I don't want to hear it, not now. I'm too tired. Ji-un kept waking up tonight.”

“So, I am a blessing?” Taehyung raised an eyebrow, a cocky smile on his lips.

“What are you talking about?”

“You said they want you to be blessed with a partner. Would dating me be a blessing?”

Jeongguk stared at him, serious, “What exactly do you want me to reply to that, Kim?”

“The truth, Jeon.” Taehyung's attitude changed too, although he had intentionally said it as a joke.

Jeongguk opened his mouth, and the omega found himself eager to hear whatever the alpha had to say, his hands twitching at his sides, his heart beating on his throat.

“I think,” He said slowly, as if analysing every word, “that you could be a blessing to the right person. To others you are just a pain in the ass.”

And for you? He didn't have the guts to ask. Whatever he had expected, this wasn’t it.

“Jeonggukie, dear?” His mom knocked on the door. “I think Ji-unie is hungry.”

The alpha grabbed the door handle, looking at him.

The omega huffed, “You owe me a big one, Jeon.”