I hate you

by Im_Moon_Wang

Chapter 5: ...And forever.

Notes:

The end is here finally here T_T It's been a long ride, much longer than intented and thank you so so much for keeping me company til the end <3

Hongjoong thought he was going to die of stress when Seonghwa came to hug him during their lunch break a few weeks later, taking advantage of the empty open space to spend some time together ; not that they wanted to keep their relationship a secret, but rather to be away from prying eyes. They knew they were already at the center of all the rumors at work and didn't want to fuel any more gossip around the coffee machine. "My brother wants to meet you" the omega had informed him and the alpha had frozen in his arms, feeling a shiver run down his spine.

 

Establishing a new rhythm for the Park brothers required a period of adjustment which the alpha had accepted without flinching. Seonghwa had explained to him many times the rigorous organization their daily life required but the omega had never ignored him, working on two fronts to satisfy "the two men in his life" until they reached where they were now. Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, Seonghwa spent the night at Hongjoong's with the promise of being up on time the next morning for his daily morning run with his brother.

"My brother made me promise not to miss my evening workouts under any circumstances" the omega had whispered sensually as he settled into Hongjoong's lap on their first night together and the alpha couldn't complain about their routine when the calorie burn Soohyuk had requested was happening between the sheets.

Hongjoong knew that Seonghwa talked a lot about him when the two brothers were together, satisfying his older brother's curiosity and assuaging his suspicions to prepare for a meeting the alpha knew was inevitable. This day was proof of that.

"Just because he's twice your height and width doesn't mean you should be afraid of him, you know."

"Is that supposed to reassure me?"

Seonghwa chuckled into his shoulder before straightening to brush the locks on the alpha's forehead, a tender smile on his face.

"Everything's going to be fine. Tonight at my place, 7 p.m."

Hongjoong could only nod stiffly before the omega grabbed his hand, urging him to stand and lead them towards the cafeteria. He knew he was going to have a difficult day. Very difficult.

 

And he saw proof of it as the hours passed when his anxious brain prevented him from fully concentrating on his computer, the numbers dancing before his eyes without purpose or meaning. He knew this moment would come sooner or later, but secretly hoped to put it off again and again, to bury his head in the sand as he sometimes did so well.

These last few weeks with Seonghwa were the best he'd ever spent in his life. Having always lived alone, it didn't take long for Hongjoong to crave time spent with his omega, whining and sulking like a child when it wasn't his "night shift."

"You see me all day at work." And it was the truth ; he couldn't say he missed Seonghwa when they had the opportunity to work a few meters apart, to kiss in the hallway like two silly teenagers or to take advantage of lunch breaks for quick but incredibly hot escapades in the bathroom.

But Hongjoong wanted more. He wanted it all. And meeting Soohyuk was the beginning. Would the other man agree to give him a more important role in his brother and his daily life? The alpha wanted more than anything to make a good impression to achieve that.

 

*

Yunho

8PM AT MINE TONIGHT I HAVE

SOMETHING TO SHOW YOU

 

Wooyoung

Your brand new Spiderman game ?

 

Yunho

My brand new Spiderman

STATUE that Mingi found for me T_T <3

 

Wooyoung

Yeosang is saying You're welcome

because he helped with it

 

Yunho

Why are you with him ?

THANK YOU YEOSANGIIIIIE <3

 

Wooyoung

We're plotting like the 2

masterminds we are

 

Yunho

... Against who ?

 

Wooyoung

Guess

 

Yunho

Is he in this GC ?

 

Wooyoung

Yes

 

Yunho

Is he me ?

 

Wooyoung

No

 

Yunho

Wow it was the most easiest

game ever

You know that he can read

everything ?

 

Wooyoung

He will not. He is tunnel vision

and he is gonna come crying soon

 

Yunho

How do you know it ?

Hongjoong

Guys I really REALLY need you

please don't be asses

Wooyoung

See ? Told you

 

Yunho

I'm speechless

Hongjoong

??

Wooyoung

Nothing dw :D :D

Why do you need us ?

 

Wooyoung

WOOOOOOOOOOW

Hongjoong

???????

Wooyoung

ARE YOU GOING TO MEET

HIM ?????

 

Yunho

OMFG

Hongjoong

ANSWER ME FOR FUCK SAKE

Wooyoung

OMG I need to see

PLEASE TAKE A DASH CAM

WITH YOU

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE

Hongjoong

I'M GOING TO KILL YOU

BUT ANSWER ME FIRST

YUNHO ?

Yunho

I'v never met him properly

He came one day to the Deep

Dive with Seonghwa because 

we needed extra hands to move

furnitures but it was very brief

and he didn't talk

He is taller than me and his

resting face is scary

That's all I can tell you

Hongjoong

I'm going to die

Yunho

I'm taking the lead of our pack

don't worry

Hongjoong

HEY

FESTING ON MY NOT DEAD

YET BODY I SEE

 

Yunho

:D

Hongjoong

WHERE IS THE LAST MENACE ?????

Wooyoung

Yeosang is saying that Soohyuk

is a sweetheart

But very sensitive and you have

to be careful around him

Hongjoong

Why thee hell are you with

Yeosang ?

Wooyoung

See Yunho ? Blind

 

Yunho

Astonishing

Hongjoong

??????

Wooyoung

Nothing :D :D :D

Yeosang is saying that if you

pass the Soohyuk trial you're

free to any restain

Hongjoong

YEAH SO HELP ME TO ACE IT ????

Wooyoung

Don't be yourself

And think with your heart

for once

Hongjoong

...

What the fuck does it mean ?

Wooyoung

Don't act impulsively !!!!!

Don't rush him

He can break your skull with his

bare hands so stay in your line

Hongjoong

I'm going to die

Yunho

He is a kind alpha

And he trusts Seonghwa and

his judgement

He knows that his brother will

never let someone bad in their

bubble

You just have to follow your 

omega and don't break his trust

 

Wooyoung

Seonghwa really wants you to

meet his precious brother ? He

is so serious about you T_T <3

Hongjoong

Sooohyuk wants to meet me

tonight

Yunho

GG

 

Wooyoung

Wow

Hongjoong

WHAT

Wooyoung

Seonghwa must had done a

incredible work to sell you to

him if he wants to meet you

now

 

Yunho

It's not easy for him to meet

new people from what I

understood

Hongjoong

Fuck I need to be perfect

I don't want to disappoint

Seonghwa

And I know how I am

when nervous

Wooyoung

Yeah well good luck !

And don't forget the dash cam

OH YUNHO CAN WE SET UP

A LIVESTREAM ?

 

Yunho

YES WE CAN

Hongjoong

NO YOU CAN'T FOR FUCK SAKE

Wooyoung

With a earpiece to guide you ?

Hongjoong

...

Yunho

WAIT ARE YOU REALLY

THINKING ABOUT IT ???

Hongjoong

I'M NERVOUS OK

Yunho

AND YOU WANT WOOYOUNG

INSIDE YOUR HEAR TO GUIDE

YOU TO NOT FUCK 

EVERYTHING UP ????

 

Wooyoung

My advice are god tier

thank you very much

Hongjoong

I need to work a bit or to try

at least

Goodbye

Wooyoung

ADIOS

 

Yunho

You got this !

*

 

Hongjoong sighed as 5 p.m. arrived and the little work he'd done in the afternoon, his brain too busy overthinking everything and any disaster scenario awaited him for the evening and he rubbed his eyes before moving closer to his screen to force himself to work. He knew Seonghwa would stay no matter what to continue his current project. Maybe they could leave together this time.

 

 

He was just finishing a segment he wanted to end today when Seonghwa's hand brushed the back of his neck, making him jump violently.

"Oh shit! Sorry..."

"You're so tense," the omega murmured against his head before placing a kiss on it and wrapping his arms around his chest, leaning back against his chair. Hongjoong sighed as he closed his eyes, letting the warmth and the scent of marshmallow comfort him as he melted into his arms. “Don’t overthink it. He’s just my brother and he wouldn’t hurt a fly.”

“Easy for you to say. You’re not the extra piece.”

“You’re not a stranger to him. I have no secrets from him and he knows everything about you. He just wants to introduce himself officially now.”

Hongjoong hummed, letting himself be rocked by his omega. He trusted him blindly and knew deep down that he wasn’t taking any great risks by meeting Søøhyuk, but his desire to be accepted was winning over his reason (and his friends hadn’t helped). He couldn’t screw up.

 

Seonghwa sighed against his ear before letting his hands slide down his chest and the alpha’s breath hitched in his chest as the teasing fingers slipped between the buttons of his shirt.

“You know what you need? Distraction.”

Hongjoong swallowed thickly as the omega's lips closed over his earlobe, his hot breath falling on his gland, making his alpha growl with need inside him.

"Seonghwa..."

"Yes, my good alpha?"

A moan escaped Hongjoong as he felt the buttons of his shirt unfasten one by one under his omega's expert fingers, his body trembling under the attention that was already making his head spin. He was always amazed at how quickly his body surrendered when Seonghwa laid his hands on him, like a puppet reacting to its creator's actions or a puppy waiting for its master's green light. Totally at his mercy and so oh so willing.

 

The last button of his shirt popped open as his breath caught in his chest, the cool air of the open space brushing against his already hot skin and making him shiver. A languid kiss was placed on his neck and he let his head fall on his shoulder to give free rein to the omega who furtively lapped at the area before nibbling at it and smiling against his skin at the moan resulting from his actions.

“My good boy. Keep relaxing. Don’t mind me.”

A small, incredulous laugh shook Hongjoong’s body at the omega’s ineptitude and he bit his lip as he felt the skillful fingers play with the sensitive skin around his nipples. Forget him? Impossible when every cell in his body was screaming in ecstasy at being touched by him.

“You’re so beautiful like this… Relaxed under my fingers, offered to my eyes and my desires…”

“I’m all yours… Fuck Seonghwa.”

The omega sniffed against his throat, sending a myriad of shivers through Hongjoong's molten body but the cold suddenly engulfed him as Seonghwa straightened up and shifted away from him to sit relaxed on his desk, his eyes fixed on his computer screen.

“You didn’t finish it.”

Breathless, the alpha’s eyes widened at the sight of the omega nonchalantly tidying up the messy things around him while humming, completely oblivious to the picture of debauchery Hongjoong undoubtedly displayed with his open shirt, his chest already glistening with sweat, his lips red from over-biting and his cheeks burning. His erection pushed painfully against the zipper of his pants and he laughed nervously, raising his arms in frustration.

“Are you really going to leave me like this?!”

“Why not? You’re relaxed now, that was my goal.”

Offended, Hongjoong angrily pointed at his erection with his hand and barely held back a curse at the sight of the omega's feigned innocence sitting across from him.

"Clearly not?!"

"Down, little Joongie" Seonghwa dismissed, continuing to tidy up. And the alpha lost all self-control. He was used to being obedient, following his omega's wishes blindly. He liked that, being at his mercy. But not today. Why? He didn't know. His wolf squealed at the feeling of his human side rebelling, but Hongjoong was already too far gone to stop.

 

Growling, he pushed on his heels to propel his chair toward the omega who had raised his head upon hearing him and it was with his eyes locked that Hongjoong bared his teeth as he moved closer to him. But a predator is always several steps ahead, he should have known that by now.

The alpha didn't have time to react before seeing Seonghwa's foot rise and suddenly land on the seat of the chair between his legs and the moan that flowed from his throat was of a rare indecency while his brain overwhelmed with desire imagined the sensation he would have felt if this foot had landed on his crotch and not on the cushion where he was sitting. Stunned, the two men froze and challenged each other with their eyes, wide with surprise for Hongjoong possibly discovering a new kink, possessed by desire for Seonghwa who let a smirk appear on his face as his gaze slid down to the more than visible erection in his boyfriend's pants. Now completely submissive, the alpha watched helplessly as his omega's foot rose slightly on the seat until the tip of his shoe brushed against his cock, which was still contained within his pants, eliciting a small, plaintive moan from him at the light touch. And he would have given anything, absolutely anything, for Seonghwa to satisfy him.

"Beg for it."

Breathless, Hongjoong raised his eyes to look deep into Seonghwa's dark, lust-filled one. Leaning on his elbows behind him, his smirk on his lips and his gaze dark with desire, he exuded power. And the alpha had long since stopped fighting for the dominance he didn't care about.

“Please…”

“Please what?”

“Please touch me.”

Wordlessly, Seonghwa slid his foot down again, sliding under Hongjoong's balls who stifled a curse by biting his lip. He could feel his erection leaking in his boxers and he forced himself to keep his hands on his thighs so as not to grab the ankle between his legs. Be good to be rewarded.

“My good puppy, so obedient for me.”

Another moan escaped the alpha when Seonghwa changed the angle of his foot, pressing the tip of his polished shoe under his cock. A shiver ran down his spine and he met the omega's gaze once again after briefly closing his eyes as the surges of pleasure rippled through his body, silently seeking the approval he desired more than anything. Hesitantly, he tried to roll his hips against the foot but froze when Seonghwa raised a finger to signal him no.

Wordlessly, the omega slowly moved his foot several times, smiling at the sound of Hongjoong's muffled moans as the tip of his shoe pressed more or less hard against his balls, testing his resistance with his pleas. The alpha let out a breath when Seonghwa suddenly stopped his attention and growled at the sight of him attacking the button of his own pants. Trembling, he tried to move the chair closer to touch him but stopped when the foot suddenly landed on his erection, making his eyes widen and he let out a curse.

“F.. Fuck…”

The pressure on Hongjoong’s crotch increased and his eyes closed of their own accord as he threw his head back against the back of his chair, moaning continuously in time with the foot against his dick.

“You’re so fucking hot, Hongjoong…”

A muffled, broken moan reached the alpha’s ears and he forced himself to open his eyes again only to be met with the immensely indecent image of Seonghwa sliding his hand into the opening of his pants to pull himself out, stroking his cock in slow in-and-out motions in time with his foot. Hypnotized and lost in the limbo of pleasure, the alpha growled as he saw him slide his pants under his buttocks before dropping them to the floor so he could lift his inactive leg onto the edge of the desk. But the movement made the chair roll and Hongjoong squeaked, feeling deprived of the contact of the foot on his cock.

“Come back here. Help me.”

And the alpha could only obey as he saw Seonghwa pull aside his panties to insert a finger into his slick, glistening hole. Trembling, the alpha rolled the chair to find himself between his omega's spread legs and growled, grabbing his thighs to move closer to him, burying his nose in the divine source that was his crotch, earning an appreciative moan.

“Fuck Joongie… You’re so good, puppy…”

Hongjoong purred as he lapped at the omega’s tender inner thighs, nibbling at the sensitive warm skin within reach of his lips, his eyes carefully and longingly following the rhythm of the finger quickly preparing the boiling intimacy he was eager to dive into. A small, plaintive moan escaped him as Seonghwa’s free hand slid into his hair and he raised his gaze to his own.

“You can do it if you want.”

And the alpha wasted no time in abruptly removing his omega’s slick-soaked hand and replacing it with his own. There was a sound as the panties were abruptly ripped off but Seonghwa didn’t have time to complain as Hongjoong’s tongue joined his hand in a wild dance that made his thighs tighten around the alpha’s head.

“Oh fuck…”

 

And it was easy, so easy now, to know Seonghwa's weak points to make him lose his footing, where to caress to satisfy him, where to press to make him tremble. The sound of a file falling from his desk furtively pulled Hongjoong from his task and he froze as he looked deeply into the eyes of the omega above him. His cheeks flushed and his breath short, his chest rising rapidly as he undid the first buttons of his shirt and took off his tie, close to the edge as he was. And Hongjoong suddenly became aware of where they were. Right in the middle of the open space, empty at this hour but in a public place nonetheless. He swallowed as he straightened slightly, catching his breath and licked his lips, never taking his eyes off Seonghwa's. And the omega seemed to understand his dilemma as he nodded frantically and tugged at his hair to pull him up and seize his lips in a passionate, impatient kiss, his legs wrapping around the alpha's hips.

“Fuck me. Hurry.”

“Yes, sir.”

The button of Hongjoong's pants was undone in record time as Seonghwa shifted on the edge of the desk to get closer to him and a shared sigh escaped them as the alpha slid into him in one smooth motion, finally connecting them, before beginning his movements quickly, driven by the burning desire that ravaged their senses. Hongjoong growled as one of the omega's hands slapped his ass and he bared his fangs as he felt his nails dig into the skin of his neck with the other.

“Harder.” Seonghwa hissed, and the alpha dove against his shoulder, sinking his fangs into it. His hands gripped his ass roughly and he quickened his pace as he felt the omega's ecstatic moans against his head, his fingers torturing his scalp, his intimacy contracting around him. He could feel his knot growing and he cursed against the hot skin as the omega pressed his heels hard against his ass to force him deeper inside. They were insane to do this here. Anyone could walk through the doors of the open-plan office and see them. Anyone could hear and smell them. And Hongjoong's possessiveness flared at the thought. Yes, everyone could see how much Seonghwa was his right now and it was after a deep thrust that he buried himself in the omega's intimacy to lock his knot, earning an appreciative moan from Seonghwa who trembled against him, holding him firmly against him with his legs and arms wrapped around his head.

"Please, please come for me. Breed me now..."

And the alpha surrendered, letting his seed invade his omega's intimacy, who contracted around him, struck down by his own orgasm. 

“Fuck Seonghwa…” Hongjoong moaned against the skin damp with his saliva, carefully lapping at the bite that had left a bloody mark on the golden expanse beneath his lips. His wolf never failed to cry when orgasm struck them and his fangs weren’t nestled deep in the gland in the hollow of his omega’s neck and Seonghwa’s shoulders had become his favorite target to try to give him the illusion, acting as a placebo effect on his animal instinct that he didn’t know how long he would manage to contain. One day, buddy. One day and he couldn’t lie to himself, even his human side was impatient. But one step at a time, one step after another. And an important one had to be taken tonight. But he chose not to think about it as he breathed in the powerful scent of marshmallow, his breath gradually calming as he let himself be rocked by his omega, tenderly stroking his thighs to help him hold the position while his knot bound them.

“I love you.”

A small purr resonated in Seonghwa’s chest and brought a smile to Hongjoong’s numb lips.

“I love you too, my alpha.”

And the alpha leaned back into his embrace, relaxed and content for the first time that day, ready to enjoy his inner calm for a short while.

“Can I do it with my stiletto next time?”

“Anything you want.”

“I can't go see your brother like this” Hongjoong squeaked, seeing his reflection in the Mercedes's rearview mirror, trying to tame his hair which was sticking out in all directions from being tortured by Seonghwa's fingers. His still-pink cheeks and bright eyes, coupled with the omega's left no doubt as to what they had been doing earlier and the laborious tidying and cleaning had done nothing to alter their post-orgasmic bliss.

“It's okay. He doesn't care about your appearance.”

“It says 'I just fucked your brother' all over my face. Not the best of first impressions…”

A small laugh shook Seonghwa's shoulders as he entered the neighborhood Hongjoong now knew well.

“And I don't have my own car so I can't escape.”

“Thank goodness.” Seonghwa replied mischievously and the alpha grumbled in annoyance as he abandoned his mission to tame his mop of hair, slumping back in his seat with a heavy sigh.

“He knows you fuck me, you know. I’m an adult.”

“But he is your big brother!”

“Stop spiraling.”

Hongjoong crossed his arms over his chest, pouting, and turned his attention back to the houses passing by the car window. He’d been here several times now to pick Seonghwa up or drop him off after their dates and not once had Soohyuk missed his passage, watching him intently from outside the kitchen window. But the two men had never interacted and Hongjoong couldn’t help his heart from soaring in his chest when Seonghwa parked the car in the driveway of his house and leaned in to place a kiss on his cheek. “Relax. Trust me.”

But Hongjoong didn't have any more time to wonder as the front door opened to reveal Søøhyuk's gigantic figure.

He can break your skull with his bare hands echoed in his head as Seonghwa slammed his door to hug his brother and Hongjoong sighed as he met his encouraging gaze through the windshield. Fuck. He could do this.

 

With a deep breath, Hongjoong mentally shook himself and grabbed the door handle to pull himself out of the vehicle. Almost instantly, Soohyuk's gaze landed on him and the alpha swallowed as he approached, his sweaty palm slipping into Seonghwa's who came to stand beside him for support. Hongjoong expected the omega to make the introductions but he refrained from jumping when the other alpha reached out to introduce himself and he quickly grasped it in what he hoped wasn't too wet or weak a grip.

“Good evening. I'm Soohyuk. I've heard a lot about you, Hongjoong.”

“Likewise. Nice to meet you.”

Hongjoong remained frozen as Soohyuk calmly looked him up and down, Seonghwa tenderly stroking his back in support, looking at them both with a smile. His inner wolf seemed strangely calm in the face of the other alpha, obediently submitting to the analysis without flinching and he mentally congratulated himself for this realization. There was no point in feeling threatened. Soohyuk wasn't a danger. Right?

 

An eternity seemed to pass before the other alpha turned his attention back to his brother with a small smile, easing Hongjoong's frayed nerves. He was smiling, that was a good sign, right?

"He's shorter than I thought. Please come in."

And with a small laugh, Seonghwa followed his brother's lead, a frozen Hongjoong on his arm before leaning down to his ear. "He's very straightforward. But he likes you, you see?"

Yeah. He could accept being David to Goliath if it meant getting in his good graces.

 

Sitting on the couch at the Park house, Hongjoong watched intently as the brothers interacted with each other, a small smile on his still-twitchy face and his glass of homemade fruit juice in his hands. Yeosang wasn't lying when he said Soohyuk was a sweetheart. Smiling like a child, he gently monopolized his brother's attention by telling him in detail about his day of training and Seonghwa, though attentive, couldn't help but catch Hongjoong's eye and smile at him so as not to leave him out. But the alpha couldn't bring himself to care about being left out for the moment, discovering who Soohyuk was with joy as a spectator. He had never been very comfortable with strangers and while the other alpha knew everything about him, the other way around wasn't. Not that the subject didn't interest Hongjoong, more than once he had asked the omega to talk to him about his brother when the latter never failed to send him a message at the end of the day to tell him that he had returned safely, that he hoped his brother was respecting his diet to the letter (not really) and that he wasn't missing his evening exercises (something they both tried to respect). And the adoration that emanated from Seonghwa's words never failed to bring a tender smile to Hongjoong's face, the alpha always touched by the love his omega could have for his brother in all circumstances, his infinite patience when the other alpha found the need to call him during the evenings when the omega was at his apartment. But Hongjoong never held it against him, how could he? He was just another piece in the equation formed by the Park brothers and accepted his place with joy, far from the spoiled child behavior he had displayed in the past. Soohyuk shared his brother with him and he could only be grateful.

 

"The dean of the university asked if I could do my apprenticeship with them. He said he was satisfied with my work and would like me on his teaching staff."

Hongjoong's eyes widened when he saw Soohyuk, a huge smile on his face, telling them the news and he didn't miss the proud tears in his omega's eyes when, surprised and moved, the latter settled down beside him, clinging to his thigh like a lifeline. The alpha hesitated only a moment before slipping his arm around Seonghwa's shoulders and resting it on the back of the sofa, his fingers brushing against the back of his neck in silent support. He knew how much Soohyuk's future mattered to the omega, how much he dreamed of seeing him fly freely on his own. But he also knew how important his brother's presence had become in his life, a daily landmark that had guided him for many years. And perhaps Soohyuk wasn't the one who feared change the most anymore. No matter how mature and confident Seonghwa could be, he was still just a little brother attached to his big brother and would always remain so.

"I'm so proud of you," Seonghwa murmured and Hongjoong pouted at the sound of his voice, choked with emotion, trying to hide his face by lowering his head to their hands now linked on his thigh. The older man stopped his rant to look at him and swallowed at the sight of his little brother's bright eyes and his dazzling, though shaky, smile.

"Please, don't cry."

“I’m not,” Seonghwa quickly replied, wiping the corners of his eyes. Soohyuk smiled at him before sitting down in the armchair opposite them, glancing furtively at Hongjoong before turning his attention back to his brother and grabbing one of his hands.

“The reason I asked to meet Hongjoong today was because I knew I had an appointment with the dean and I’d already heard about his desire to keep me. I want to say yes, Seonghwa. I really want it. But I’m going to need to… Spend more time on campus for… For tutoring. I hope I succeed… Tell… Tell me… Tell me that…”

Hongjoong squeezed his omega’s fingers as he heard his ragged breathing, saw his frantic nods and watery eyes.

“I know. I know… You got this. Take your time.”

Soohyuk nodded, taking several deep breaths, gathering his composure from the overwhelming emotion before continuing, his eyes moist.

“And I want to make sure someone will be there to take care of you. That Hongjoong will be there for you. Like you were for me.” Suddenly included in the conversation, the alpha swallowed as he felt Soohyuk’s piercing gaze on him and smiled sincerely, trying not to let his nervousness show. “We don’t know each other, Hongjoong, but I’ve gotten to know you through my brother’s eyes, through his words and the trust he has in you. And he's the only person in this world I trust completely, the one I'm not afraid to believe when he tells me that life has so many beautiful things to offer me if I only give him the chance. And I want to seize it. With the only certainty that you'll be there for him."

 

And it was with a heavy heart in his throat that Hongjoong met Seonghwa's tear-filled but hopeful gaze, his hand tightly clasping his omega's in his own. Never had he felt assigned such an important mission in his life. And never, ever did he want to disappoint. But instead of the almost unhealthy pressure he'd put on himself all these years, pushing his competitiveness to its limits until he became a shadow of his former self, only love now drove him. The free and powerful love devoid of shadows that he had been nurturing healthily and serenely since that fateful evening at the Deep Dive where his life took a turn he cherished more than anything in the world. Yes, he would be there for Seonghwa, he would be there for his family and for their future family.

“I promise.”

And beyond that promise he sealed by accepting Soohyuk's embrace, it was the trust he placed in him that he promised himself he would never break. To never see the stars fade in the gazes cast upon him.

The first time Soohyuk suggested Hongjoong join him and Seonghwa for their daily runs, the alpha had willingly agreed, figuring a little extra exercise wouldn't hurt (absolutely not because he sometimes couldn't keep up with his omega's bedtime routine, no). But he quickly became disillusioned when, out of breath and with his lungs about to burst, he collapsed after half an hour on the grass of the park they were crossing.

"I'm gonna die..." he sighed, clutching his chest and Soohyuk reprimanded him, grabbing his arm to pull him up.

"If you can't run anymore, don't stop under any circumstances. It's not good. At least walk."

And it was exhausted and with burning cheeks that he freed himself from his brother-in-law's grip to walk, grumbling to himself, hands on his hips and mouth open to catch his breath. A few meters away, Seonghwa smiled at him as he jogged on the spot and he almost choked on his saliva when Soohyuk resumed his run and brought his brother along with him, saying in the utmost calmness, "I hope for your sake he's more resilient in bed."

"I want to die," Hongjoong mumbled, far too exhausted to reply and feeling stricken with shame as he walked closer to them. His cheeks flushed, Seonghwa gently slapped his brother on the shoulders and the omega turned his attention back to his alpha as his brother laughed, running towards him to hug him tenderly.

"Leave my puppy alone. He's doing his best, and I love him just the way he is."

And despite his burning chest, a purr resonated within him upon hearing his omega's praise and he wrapped his arms around his omega's waist to rest his weight on him, making him laugh softly. He was truly a little puppy, seeking comfort and praise, but Seonghwa loved him like that. It was all that mattered to him.

 

And doing his best, he strived to do it every day. When he got up at dawn to suffer under Soohyuk's instructions, pushing his limits under the satisfied gaze of his brother-in-law, the one proud of Seonghwa, and when they joined them at dawn to finish the day, the omega would motivate him by whispering in his ear "Chase me puppy" with a wink to rekindle the flame in his tired body.

Wooyoung and Yunho never failed to make fun of him when, sprawled on the couch in the apartment chosen for their evening, Hongjoong was groaning, feeling his muscles scream in pain.

"I thought he'd kill you in bed but maybe not," Yunho laughed, seeing the alpha wince as he retrieved his glass from the coffee table. Today was one of Soohyuk's nights and the alpha could have cried with relief when Seonghwa had told him earlier that they wouldn't be able to run tonight, as the two were going to look at an apartment for Soohyuk in preparation for his upcoming job start.

 

Seonghwa had cried his eyes out when his brother announced his desire to move out soon, wanting to give the young couple some privacy. The omega had assured him again and again that his presence in no way encroached on their life as a couple but Soohyuk had never given up on his idea.

"I think I'm ready for my independence."

And Seonghwa could only accept the fact that his brother had finally found the peace of mind he had so lacked all these years.

“I don’t know how to live alone. I think I’m scared,” the omega had murmured against Hongjoong’s shoulder one night, his trembling fingers tracing arabesques on the alpha’s skin.

“I’m here. You’re not alone.” And he proved it to him every day, filling in for Soohyuk’s increasingly frequent absence from his daily routine when he left for several days to follow the future champions during their summer competitions. But the start of the school year was approaching, and Soohyuk’s departure with it.

“You're not the one who runs twice a day, every day, as far as I know!” Hongjoong growled, leaning back on the couch, Yunho still laughing beside him. Wooyoung's booming voice echoed through the kitchen and the alpha did his best not to lunge at him as he burst through the door, arms laden with a meal tray.

“You don't have to run like a puppy after your brother-in-law to get the right to bite his little brother's ass.”

“Very funny.”

“I know, I know.”

The alpha rolled his eyes, sulking on his corner of the couch. Seonghwa had assured him many times that he didn't have to come every day, that Soohyuk wouldn't hold it against him if he missed a few runs but Hongjoong was stubborn and determined to push himself. “I'm maintaining my office-boy body” the alpha always replied and the omega had given up on trying to change his mind, happy to spend time with his brother and boyfriend despite everything.

 

“It's not his ass I want to bite right now…” Hongjoong muttered under his breath and although he had hoped not to draw attention to himself, the silence of his friends made him raise his head to meet their sparkling and proud gazes.

“Do we have a mating planned soon?” Yunho teased and Wooyoung's eyes widened as Hongjoong's cheeks and ears turned a lovely crimson.

“For real?! You want to take the plunge?!” the omega exclaimed excitedly, throwing himself at his friend who groaned as he felt his sore muscles being tortured. For several weeks now, the idea had been growing in his mind : the possibility of officially making Seonghwa his. And with his omega's future heat so close, the idea never left him, obsessing him day by day as the marshmallow scent thickened around him.

"Have you two discussed this?" Yunho asked kindly and Hongjoong couldn't help but glance at the bite mark on the beta's neck and do the same to Wooyoung's, swallowing.

"Not really. I know he wants it but..."

But was it too soon? Despite their attachment, they'd only been together for eight months. Was Seonghwa ready for another change in his life?

 

The answer came to him a few days later when, seated at the kitchen table of Seonghwa's house, the omega having left the two alphas alone to take a shower, Soohyuk cornered Hongjoong.

“I know you're going to help my brother during his heat in a few days.”

Paralyzed, the alpha didn't know what to say, embarrassed to discuss such a personal subject and jumped when Soohyuk leaned across the table, his piercing gaze fixed on his. “Are you finally going to make him your mate?”

“I…”

“He's been waiting for that. He tells me every day.”

“Is that true?”

Soohyuk smiled at him, placing his hand on his shoulder, making him wince at the force he'd used. “He's going to break me someday” he kept thinking every time the other alpha laid a hand on him. “Make my brother a fulfilled mate, please. Spare me the wait. I've given enough.”

 

And it was with a heavy heart but impatient and confident that Hongjoong brought up the subject the day before Seonghwa's heat, the omega curled up in his nest on the alpha's bed, the latter tenderly stroking his already burning cheek.

“What do you want me to do?”

“What do you mean? I want you to fuck me when I need it and to be here for me.”

Hongjoong nodded, swallowing, his fingers gently playing with a strand of brown hair to hide his nervousness. The marshmallow mist invading the room made his wolf inside him unbearable, constantly howling to take care of his omega who was wincing in discomfort in the middle of his nest.

“Can I come into your nest, please?”

Seonghwa's glassy eyes landed on him and Hongjoong smiled, caressing his parted lips and jaw, sliding down to his neck. Hesitantly, his fingers gently brushed the swollen gland there, sending a myriad of shivers down his omega's moist skin. That skin, so soft and immaculate, calling out to him tirelessly, screaming for him to leave his mark. He swallowed as he met Seonghwa's gaze once again, so intense and hopeful, shining with emotion and fever.

"Yes, you can."

Without a word, Hongjoong removed his tshirt to settle down shirtless in Seonghwa's nest, keeping only his shorts on and his omega wasted no time curling up against him, tangling their legs to draw him closer. The alpha's heart pounded in his chest as he buried his face in Seonghwa's neck, breathing in deeply the sweet scent that made his mouth water, pressing the tip of his nose against the sensitive gland, making the omega moan. Trembling, Seonghwa's fingers buried themselves in Hongjoong's locks who purred at the gesture, happy and fulfilled to feel himself in the bubble of pheromones composed of his omega's and his own, the sweetness of sugar and the bitterness of citrus, two scents diametrically opposed but which nevertheless created a blend that resembled them perfectly. Seonghwa's voice was shaky and breathless as it sank into Hongjoong's ear, but nothing dampened its strength as it uttered the words "Ask me" bringing change but so much hope. The alpha swallowed hard and placed a kiss on the small bulge in the hollow of the omega's neck, shifting his face to look deep into the eyes in front of him, those deep orbs that had captivated him months ago and that made him travel a thousand miles away every time he got lost in them now. His hand slid down Seonghwa's neck to cover the virgin expanse of his neck and stroke it tenderly with his thumb, a smile emerging on his lips. Finally, after a shaky breath, the alpha placed a kiss on the omega's mouth and pressed their foreheads together before diving into the deep end, that of a new stage of their life that awaited them with open arms.

“Seonghwa… Would you do me the honor of being my mate?”

A small laugh shook Seonghwa’s shoulders as he nodded frantically, his lips finding Hongjoong’s as he climbed on top of him, purring loudly, his hands firmly planted in the alpha’s long locks.

“Fuck yes… Yes… Make me yours alpha.”

A growl rumbled in Hongjoong’s throat as Seonghwa undulated above him, his hot body giving in to the fever and hormones building within him. Gently, the alpha ran his fingers up the back of his omega’s neck and grasped it to catch his attention, locking their gazes before letting them both fall into the limbo of lust that awaited them for the next few hours.

“Seonghwa, my sweet, are you sure? You won't regret it, will you?”

“I want to be yours. And I want you to be mine. Don't you want it too?”

“Yes. I just want to be sure that you truly want it. That it's not your hormones talking for you.”

But Seonghwa's eyes were more than sincere as the usual teasing spark lit up. “I want it, puppy. Please. Be a good boy and take care of me. Okay?”

And that was all Hongjoong needed before he dove like a hungry man onto Seonghwa's lips, kneading his omega's hips and buttocks with his hands above him.

 

It was so strange this time, how different Seonghwa's body seemed from the many times they'd lost themselves in each other. He knew the curves, knew the hollows, had studied them enough with his eyes, his hands, and his lips to recognize them among a thousand, to redraw them with his eyes closed. And yet. Everything seemed different to him as his omega's body revealed itself before his hungry and attentive gaze. The muscles that contracted when he straddled his pelvis and removed his sweat-damp t-shirt : they were the same honed sculptures that Hongjoong admired with envy every Friday night at the Deep Dive, that he cuddled under the sheets and worshipped daily. But today... Today... He felt their strength, he felt the blood irrigating them, he felt the cells screaming directly into his mind to make them his own. And for the first time, Hongjoong saw beyond this dream body, these captivating eyes, and these intoxicating lips ; he saw the purity of his heart, saw his love in the form of small sparkles before his eyes, escaping from the pores of his omega's skin floating into the air. He saw their future together, their scents blending and creating their own. He saw a whole. Two souls bonding after having fought and searched tirelessly for each other.

"Can you feel it too?" Seonghwa asked breathlessly, his hand resting above Hongjoong's heart. "How our bodies are ready to be one?"

“Yeah…” Yes, and there was no fear as the alpha grasped his omega’s hips before reversing their position, settling between his open legs before kissing him deeply. And sex had never felt so intimate when Hongjoong finally buried himself to the hilt after ridding them of their last defenses, moaning into Seonghwa’s mouth while the omega sobbed at finally feeling full. Sex was never calm between them, always filled with love but spiced with that passion that characterized them both so well. That carnal passion that, they knew, could get them into a lot of trouble at work or at the Deep Dive, where the gazes of others could no longer pierce the bubble they found themselves in when they were in each other’s company. That passion that retreated today to leave them bare, naked at the mercy of their emotions. “Hold me… Please hold me” Seonghwa cried into the crook of his shoulder, his arms firmly anchored around Hongjoong’s body.

“I’m here.” The alpha sighed, continuing his movements, slowly undulating his hips, letting his omega's wet warmth embrace him tirelessly, molding itself around him to envelop him perfectly in a cozy embrace Hongjoong could never live without.

A moan escaped Seonghwa as he arched against the alpha, pushing him deeper, ever deeper. "I can feel you everywhere. Inside my body and soul..." and Hongjoong felt tears well up in his eyes as he met his omega's, saturated with pleasure and overflowing with emotion.

I love you his soul silently cried out to him. I need you his incandescent body begged him. I want you his heart cried out. His languid movements gradually gained power as their sweaty skin slapped against each other, filling their room with an indecent litany accompanied by their moans. Hongjoong felt the knot forming at the base of his cock, making his omega relax in his arms, mewing with desire and pleasure. Seonghwa let out a sob as his gaze slid down to his stomach, seeing the little bulge with each movement of the alpha inside him.

“You’re so deep inside me…” he purred, placing his hand on the taut skin of his stomach, tears bathing his cheeks and a smile tearing across his blissful face.

A sharp thrust made them both groan as the alpha’s knot gripped Seonghwa’s ring of flesh. They were almost there. So close to completion. And the omega finally decided their fate by looking back into Hongjoong's eyes for a moment before letting his head fall back onto the mattress and revealing the fullness of his neck, completely submissive and ready. The alpha trembled as he placed his lips against the warm skin, maintaining the rhythm of his thrusts by nibbling tenderly, making Seonghwa purr, sliding his hands up Hongjoong's back to his buttocks to match his movements.

"Breed me... Make us one." 

The alpha inhaled the marshmallow scent deeply before lapping at the area lovingly, reverently and gratefully. A final deep ripple slid his knot inside Seonghwa and the omega sobbed "Yes" feeling physically connected to the alpha, clawing at his back to hold him against him. And Hongjoong let his instincts do their work, closing his jaw hard on the swollen gland beneath his lips, piercing the skin and letting the sweet blood flood his mouth and intoxicate his senses. And nothing and no one could have prepared him for the sensation that followed, the visceral plunge into Seonghwa's mind, their cells bonding to form a single entity. Them. In complete completion. No matter the pain in his neck, his muscles screaming with exhaustion, he was one with his mate.

His mate. His omega. The love of his life.

All around him, in his mind and in his life.

I love you echoed in his head for the first time with Seonghwa's intonation, caressing his soul so tenderly that tears began to slide down his cheeks. And it was after releasing his neck from his teeth, carefully lapping at the injured area with a moan, that Hongjoong replied, his lips brushing the sensitive skin with his breath. “I love you too. My mate.”

A small, satisfied sigh escaped Seonghwa as he tenderly lapped at the bite he had placed on his alpha’s neck, caressing his back with his fingertips as he let his legs fall gently back onto the mattress, careful not to pull on the knot that was spilling his seed deep inside him. “You’re mine now. You can’t escape me anymore, my puppy.”

“As if I wanted it in the first place,” Hongjoong mumbled into the omega’s neck, purring as he stroked his belly, filling in time with his knot and the small moans escaping his half-open mouth. “My sweet… Thank you. For trusting me.”

“I never doubted it. Never.” And cradled in his omega’s embrace, bathed in their sweet and acid scent as one, Hongjoong let himself fall into the deep end that was their future. With Seonghwa by his side, he knew it ; whatever happened, he was ready.

 

 

“Have you taken your vitamins?” Hongjoong asked, leaning against Seonghwa’s cubicle, his gaze suspicious as he saw his omega yawning into his sleeve. The open space was gradually emptying for lunch, and the alpha had jumped up from his seat, sensing the fatigue emanating from his mate (blessed was the bond that united them now, allowing them to detect the slightest disturbance in the other). But Seonghwa shook his hand nonchalantly as he stretched, brushing off the alpha’s questions.

“I’m just tired. It’s ok.”

“You didn’t answer.”

The omega rolled his eyes as he slumped back in his chair, a small smile on his face as he saw Hongjoong take out his pillbox to diligently check.

“See? You forgot today.”

“I stayed on the phone with Soohyuk until late last night. I'm just sleep-deprived, that's all.”

 

Hongjoong hadn't expected to cry when the trunk of Soohyuk's car slammed on the last of his boxes a few months earlier. But deeply touched by the emotion emanating from Seonghwa and coursing through his nerves through their bond, the alpha had experienced his departure as a brutal and painful wrench, just as much as his mate had. 

It had been difficult for Seonghwa to be deprived of his big brother, his landmark since the beginning of his adult life. But everything was fine now that their new routine had settled in, for them as well as for Soohyuk. Every night, the alpha called his brother and spent part of the evening recounting his days while Seonghwa recounted his own, swearing to his brother that he was maintaining his daily training schedule (with a few exceptions now that he was officially living with Hongjoong). 

Wooyoung and Yeosang had teased them tirelessly when they noticed Hongjoong's belongings gradually migrating towards Seonghwa's house after Soohyuk left. But the alpha shrugged when the two omegas made him the target of their shenanigans. Yes, he wanted to live with Seonghwa and was impatient with the idea. There was no point in denying the obvious. And although the omega tried to take some of the blame by claiming he was having trouble living alone, the truth was that they were having a hard time living apart now. 

Hongjoong retained painful memories of the transitional period when he'd had to bite his lip and continue sharing custody of Seonghwa after their mating, spending his nights alone, moping and mourning the loss of his omega. And now, free of restrictions, he saw no reason to waste any more time taking the next step and officially living as a couple. It had only taken a month after Seonghwa's big brother's departure for Hongjoong to leave his apartment without a backward glance, keeping with him only the memories of the beginning of their relationship that had grown within these walls, leaving behind his loneliness and past setbacks without regret. 

And it felt good, it felt so good, to have the chance to fall asleep and wake up in Seonghwa's arms every day, to have time to lounge around together when Hongjoong successfully managed to keep the omega in bed and prevent him from running off to take advantage of their post-night body heat under the sheets to kiss and caress each other tenderly, with no time limit hanging over their heads. Finally. They had time.

The alpha still remembered Soohyuk's last visit to their house where he had, once again and in the utmost calm, dropped a cat among the pigeons by saying with a disappointed pout on his face, "I was hoping you'd make good use of my room sooner than that," almost making Hongjoong faint on the spot and his brother blush from head to toe. "I can't wait to be an uncle!" he kept claiming but Seonghwa still categorically refused to play along with his brother, forcibly changing the subject until the alpha gave up. And Hongjoong accepted without flinching. They still had plenty of time for that, to enjoy their mated life and each other but deep down, he knew that their family would soon grow. Their wolves had decided their fates from the beginning of their relationship and the alpha saw the fact that their cycle now fell at the same time as an unmistakable sign that their animal side was forcing their hand once again. But Seonghwa respected his treatment to the letter for now and Hongjoong was there to remind him of it. Even if a part of him purred at the thought of fulfilling his brother-in-law's wish. He couldn't disappoint him, could he? But he never wanted to force Seonghwa's hand and his body. He will wait.

 

The alpha doesn't flinch as he holds out the small orange pill in the palm of his hand in front of Seonghwa's nose. "Take it please."

“Okay,” the omega replied but Hongjoong felt his legs weaken when he saw him open his mouth, his mischievous glint ignited in the depths of his eyes. Swallowing, the alpha placed the small pill in his open mouth and couldn't hold back a moan when Seonghwa's lips closed sensually around his fingers before letting go as if nothing had happened.

“Thank you, puppy.”

And Hongjoong stammered a small “fucking menace” before handing him his water bottle, his cheeks flushed.

“You love me, tho,” Seonghwa teased before taking a sip and the alpha felt himself melt at the sight of the scar on his neck, exposed for all to see. Yes, he loved him a little more with every day spent by his side.

 

A small throat clearing made Hongjoong jump and his eyes widened as he fell upon his boss, arms crossed, a surprised but amused expression on his face. The silence stretched for a few seconds before the man chuckled softly, the sight of the omega's large, innocent, sparkling eyes coupled with the alpha's rabbit-caught-in-the-headlights eyes creating a striking picture.

"I came to congratulate you both for finally finding common ground and team cohesion, but I have a feeling the changes between you have extended beyond the walls of this company for several months," he teased them, his gaze flickering between the visible bites on their necks, making the alpha blush. There was much gossip about them within the teams, but never once had one of their colleagues come to ask them about their relationship. They saw the looks on them, the questions in their eyes when they saw them arrive or leave together, but things had never been said. Until today. But Hongjoong was a professional at avoiding making decisions and it was almost timidly that he turned towards Seonghwa to await his instructions. The omega rolled his eyes at the hesitation in the alpha's gaze and smiled at their boss, getting up from his chair to squeeze Hongjoong's arm.

"At least our work has never been so exemplary, hasn't it sir?"

"Yeah. But now I know why you're both absent at the same time. It took me a while to put the pieces together, but I understand now. Congratulations. I wanted to tell you."

"Thank you, sir." Hongjoong murmured, and the smile that appeared on the other man's face made the alpha's face blossom with emotion.

"Please... Continue... whatever you were doing. And I don't want to know, okay?" the other man joked and the alpha blushed at the implication, clenching his fingers around his omega's waist as he giggled against him.

"If he knew what happened in the evening when he left the premises..." Seonghwa whispered into Hongjoong's ear as they followed their boss towards the cafeteria and the alpha tried to silence him with a discreet pinch.

"Shut up, oh my god..."

"No more sex office, okay, I understand."

"I never said that." And the alpha knew he'd once again fallen into his omega's trap when a small laugh brushed his cheek and a kiss was placed there as they walked through the cafeteria doors into the open, hand in hand. And no matter the stares and the gossip anymore, he was free and in love and nothing mattered but the smile on his mate's face and his heart beating in harmony with his.

"Are you sure you want to dance tonight?" Hongjoong asked, seeing the omega yawn endlessly, his head resting against the window.

 

"Yes. "I'll just take a nap before I go, I have time," Seonghwa mumbled, snuggling into his car seat. The alpha couldn't be more pleased now that his mate had eased off on his work schedule, only imposing overtime when deadlines were tight, giving them the opportunity to come home together after their day and enjoy their newfound marital intimacy. Hongjoong had thus discovered Seonghwa's passion for Star Wars and video games, things the omega had long since put aside with the drastic pace he'd imposed on himself in recent years. And fatigue seemed to be returning since he'd eased off, making him pay for his previous infernal lifestyle and forcing him to rest. But Hongjoong didn't complain about having to take care of him, quite the contrary ; he relished these moments when Seonghwa let his sensitivity be more openly revealed and became a kitten in search of cuddles and comfort. 

 

The alpha was preparing some snacks for them on a meal tray, Seonghwa already wrapped in a mountain of blankets on the couch, his console controllers ready when the omega's voice broke the tranquility of the place.

“I’m going to stop the Deep Dive.”

Surprised, Hongjoong dropped his bag of chips and cursed as he picked them up as best he could, his wide eyes fixed on the silhouette of his omega with his back to him on the couch.

“Really? Why? You always told me it was your escape.”

Seonghwa sniffed without answering, giving the alpha time to finish his task and settle down beside him, placing the tray on the coffee table. Playing with a corner of his blanket, the omega bit his lip gently, his cheeks flushed, before gazing into his mate’s eyes.

“I’m almost finished with my bottle of birth control pills. And maybe I don’t want to get a refill this time.”

Hongjoong froze on the couch as he let Seonghwa's words sink into his mind, making his inner wolf squeal with excitement at their implication.

"Maybe?"

"Yeah. How about that?"

But Hongjoong was unable to answer as Seonghwa's dark eyes mesmerized his, bright and full of expectation. Did the alpha want to be a dad? He'd known the answer for a long time. When his hands caressed his omega's belly every time his knot held them together. When he saw him gently cradling Wooyoung's newborn. Or when Hongjoong couldn't help but let his gaze linger on Yeosang's rounder figure every day. Of course he wanted to experience all of this with Seonghwa. He dreamed about it every day spent by his side.

“I'd say… Your brother will be happy with this news.”

“But what about you?”

“I'd follow you to the ends of the earth, Seonghwa. If it's the right time for you, I'll follow you into this new world. Because I probably want it as much as you do.”

Moved to tears, Seonghwa leaned down to kiss him, his arms wrapping around his neck to pull him closer. The alpha hugged him and felt his heart clench as his omega's apprehension poured into him, his trembling body sinking against his as if to disappear.

“We don't have to. You said you wanted to give us time to live together, just the two of us,” Hongjoong murmured against his mate's lips.

“I… My omega… He is driving me crazy. He wants a pup. So fucking much. He is exhausting me.” Seonghwa sighed against the alpha's cheek, stroking his neck finally free of his long locks with his fingertips.

“I know. But don't let him make decisions for you, okay? Keep dancing, keep living your life without worrying about him. He'll survive for once.”

A tired chuckle shook the omega slightly as he snuggled against Hongjoong's chest, feeling himself gradually drifting off to sleep, the controllers forgotten between the covers.

“I still want to end the Deep Dive, tho. I used to go to relieve the week's tension and clear my mind but I don't need to anymore. If I want to dance, I'll do it for you here. I'm sure you'll enjoy the show just the same. Maybe even better.”

“It's not about me, it's about you. I'm here to support you in your decisions.”

And it was half asleep that Seonghwa mumbled "thank you" against his shoulder, his body giving in to the fatigue.

"Your ID, sir," Jongho greeted with a smile as Hongjoong approached the Deep Dive that evening. Seonghwa had grumbled when he saw how late the alpha had woken him, unable to deprive him of the sleep he so desperately needed, and the two men had arrived late in front of the club.

"I'm going to get ready. Enjoy the show!" Seonghwa hurried after placing a quick kiss on Hongjoong's lips and the alpha rolled his eyes when he saw Jongho waiting for him, smiling, by the front door.

"Are you going to do this to me every time?" Hongjoong muttered kindly, reluctantly presenting him with his idea card and Jongho smiled more intensely, taking the time to search him.

“I’m just doing my job without giving any special treatment.”

“Strange how I never see you frisking Yunho.”

“Because I know it doesn’t bother him, unlike you,” Jongho replied proudly, and Hongjoong gritted his teeth as he felt him grope his butt. “Wow, lucky Seonghwa.”

“Fuck off.”

And it was to the young security guard’s laughter that the alpha finally entered the club. It didn’t take long for him to spot Yunho’s head leaning against the bar counter and with a small smile, Hongjoong approached him.

“Hi.”

The beta jumped when he sensed his presence and a mischievous smile formed on his face as he glanced at his watch. “Late? Busy?”

“Seonghwa needed to rest.”

“Of course” Yunho teased and Hongjoong ignored him, grabbing the glass Mingi offered him with a smile.

“He told us it was his last night. Are you the one responsible for that decision?” the bartender asked with a knowing smile and a quick glance toward Yeosang and his big belly who was sitting at the table they had reserved, Wooyoung curled up against him like a koala. Hongjoong blushed at the implication and nodded no, taking a sip of his mocktail, which had become his favorite drink here.

“No. I had nothing to do with it.”

“Yet,” Yunho added, putting his arm around his shoulders and with a quick wink, the beta led his friend to their table. Realizing his presence, Wooyoung finally moved away from Yeosang and pressed himself against the alpha as the latter sat down in his chair. “You took your time!” Busy?”

“Jongho wasted my time at the entrance,” Hongjoong grumbled, trying to free himself from the octopus that had wrapped itself around him, wrinkling his nose. “Please leave me alone. You reek of milk despite the scent blockers.”

“Omega hormones with pup, my poor sensitive alpha. You'd better get used to it. Someone seems intent on making you take the plunge soon,” Wooyoung chirped and the alpha swallowed, turning his attention back to his drink, the discussion he'd had earlier with Seonghwa replaying in his head.

“Can we stop talking about our intimate lives, please?”

“Wooow, someone's in a bad mood tonight, I see.” Wooyoung laughed, pinching the alpha's cheek and the alpha groaned as he pulled away. No, he was just stressed despite his excitement about the changes awaiting him and Seonghwa and he didn't want to think about it for the evening. Just enjoy the spectacle of his mate, the last one here if that was his final choice.

Yeosang's soft hand came to rest on Hongjoong's on the table and the alpha stopped his leg from bouncing endlessly as he looked down at him.

"It's okay to be scared." And the alpha felt his eyes sting when he saw the former dancer place his hand on his large belly and smile at him. "You have a few months to prepare. Even if you're never really ready until you're in the deep end, I guess."

"He's not pregnant. We have the time."

"Don't think too much, ok ? Wolves know what they need to do when the time comes."

Hongjoong nodded, squeezing Yeosang's fingers in his own, his gaze lingering on the swell of his stomach, his navel poking out from under the fabric of his shirt. He dreamed of seeing Seonghwa like this, of feeling life growing inside him. Would his stomach be as round? Or more pointed? Would his cheeks be rounder like Yeosang's? Or constantly reddened by tears as had been the case with Wooyoung and his hellish pregnancy? But his observation was interrupted when the lights in the room dimmed a little more, announcing Seonghwa's arrival.

 

His attention returned to the stage, Hongjoong exhaled before taking a sip of his mocktail and settling comfortably into his chair when the one on the podium was lit, making his inner wolf purr as the memories came flooding back. Memories of their first time and the turning point in their lives. And although it was a long time ago, not being the first time Hongjoong had relived this scene, rewatched his mate's show (he attended it weekly), an indescribable emotion seized the alpha's throat when Seonghwa arrived on stage, mounted on his stilettos and hidden behind his half-mask and pink wig.

Hongjoong knew his body inside out, his curves and the taste of his skin. And under the club lights, the bite scar on his neck seemed to shine like a star in the dark night, the one that guided him through the darkness and helped him chart his course into the unknown.

“I can’t believe you’re banging him, lucky motherfucker…” Wooyoung murmured in his ear as Seonghwa sensually caressed his chest on stage, his head thrown back on the back of his chair.

“I did it right here,” Hongjoong couldn't help but reply, nodding his head at the podium. He laughed as he saw his friends' three heads violently turn in his direction, their eyes wide.

“You defiled the scene where I was lying down?!” Yeosang gulped in horror, and Hongjoong smiled innocently at him, turning his attention back to Seonghwa, smug as ever.

 

His body arched in his chair and his abs on full display thanks to the single leather straps covering his upper torso, Seonghwa beamed, transcended by an aura that unfailingly mesmerized Hongjoong every time. A pang in his heart made him swallow when he saw the omega slide his hands over his stomach, his fingers tightening slightly on his defined muscles before continuing their path down his thighs revealed by his velvet shorts, sensually spreading them in a movement Hongjoong had never seen before. Improvisation for his final appearance? The alpha could only swallow again as he felt the saliva pool in his mouth. He was so hot like this. Too hot.

“Are you okay, Hongjoong?” Wooyoung laughed, but the alpha paid him no attention as Seonghwa slid down onto his knees from the chair onto the stage. The omega’s hips undulated sensually in the air, his hands buried in his pink hair and his mouth parted in an expression of ecstasy the alpha knew all too well and he cleared his throat, crossing his legs to hide the unmistakable reaction that was beginning to show in his pants.

“Tired, my ass. Horndogs.” Yunho teased, and Wooyoung's laughter pierced his eardrums despite the music and the cheers from the audience as Seonghwa spun around on all fours, his butt raised in the air and his chest pressed to the ground, his heels swinging above his arched figure.

"Fucking hell," Hongjoong muttered, feeling his wolf grow excited deep inside him and his pants becoming even tighter.

"Your scent blockers are useless too. You stink, fuckboy," Wooyoung gently nudged him, but the alpha didn't care, bewitched by his mate delivering his final performance. He couldn't take his eyes off his stomach, his abs that he loved to trace with his fingertips or tongue, his lean muscles yet so strong when they pinned him to the mattress. Muscles that in the more or less near future would disappear to welcome life.

And it was with tears in his eyes but a smile that Hongjoong watched with emotion as Seonghwa finished his performance, slowly straightening up, leaning back on his chair and raising his hand to the sky toward the light before making a fist, plunging the room into darkness and eliciting applause. And the alpha let a small tear roll down his cheek as he saw a chapter close to make way for a new one. The end of an era that had given birth to a new story, bigger and more beautiful.

"Something tells me the baby-making is going to be intense tonight," Wooyoung joked, wrapping his arms around Hongjoong's shoulders under the teasing but tender gazes of their friends, but the alpha didn't care. He was ready. Ready to dive into this new life if Seonghwa asked him to. Ready to move forward by his side.

It was late at night when the couple walked through the front door of their house, giggling like two teenagers. The night lingered at the Deep Dive after the shows, like a proper farewell after Seonghwa emptied his dressing room and took a final tour of the place with a moved but proud smile on his face.

"Someone's going to be happy with everything you're bringing home," Mingi laughed as he saw Hongjoong eyeing his partner's bags filled with stage outfits. The alpha blushed from head to toe but couldn't hold back the greedy smile on his lips at the prospect of what awaited him in the privacy of their room.

"An explosive baby-making!" Wooyoung teased, but Seonghwa rolled his eyes before settling down next to Hongjoong, his hand resting on his thigh.

"We're not here yet."

And the teasing from their friends finally subsided, leaving the evening to end peacefully, letting the couple move forward at their own pace.

“You were so fucking hot on that fucking chair,” Hongjoong growled against Seonghwa’s lips, guiding him backward to their bedroom, his hands kneading the omega’s buttocks as he purred against him.

“I wanted to make the last one memorable,” Seonghwa murmured sensually, sliding his hands under the alpha’s t-shirt and pulling it off, letting it fall haphazardly to the floor.

“You always are memorable.” Hongjoong hissed between the two of them, pulling the omega’s body down on their bed and lunging at his neck like a hungry man, his hands tirelessly roaming his thighs which he had spread to slide between them. A small chuckle resonated in Seonghwa’s throat as he slid his hands into his mate’s hair. “I’m proud of you for not being too jealous this time.” Because the omega had lost count of the number of times their bond had betrayed the inner struggle taking place within his mate's body every night he performed at the Deep Dive.

Hongjoong purred at the compliment as he nuzzled his omega's glans, nibbling at the sensitive area that made his mate squirm with pleasure beneath him. "Because everyone could see you were mine," the alpha murmured against his skin before licking the scar beneath his lips, earning a small, appreciative moan.

But the world suddenly turned upside down as Seonghwa reversed their positions, straddling Hongjoong, his parted lips letting out ragged breaths. Without a word, the omega let himself slide down his body until he was kneeling at the foot of the bed between his spread legs dangling from the bed.

“You were so well behaved today. I want to reward you.” Seonghwa purred, sitting up sensually, his long fingers attacking the buttons of his shirt.

“You’re so fucking gorgeous, my God…” Hongjoong breathed out, pushing himself up on his elbows, his gaze longingly examining Seonghwa’s body as it revealed itself to him. The omega let a smirk form on his lips as the last button of his velvet shirt gave way beneath his fingers and the fabric slid from his shoulders to the floor.

“Yeah?” He purred as he unbuttoned his pants and slipped his fingers through the belt loops to pull them down below his buttocks, letting them fall down his long, slender legs. Mesmerized, the alpha growled at the expanse of skin and his gaze locked on the fabric covering the omega's erection, swallowing as he straightened and reached out to slip his finger under the purple lace waistband cinching Seonghwa's hips.

"Long time no see," he murmured, stroking the fabric with his fingertip, tracing a pattern along his mate's groin. Seonghwa giggled softly as he stroked the back of Hongjoong’s neck.

"Remember? My little gift."

But how could he forget that simple piece of fabric that had awakened so much in him months and months ago? That had helped him through one of the most intense heats he'd ever experienced during his single life?

"Can I?"

Seonghwa smiled as he stroked his face, moving between his spread legs. “My puppy… You were so good tonight. So well behaved. Yes, you can.”

Hongjoong sighed as he leaned against his stomach, placing a kiss above his navel, caressing his hips and thighs beneath his hands. Seonghwa moaned softly as he felt the alpha's lips brush against his cock through the fabric of his underwear and his fingers slid against Hongjoong's head to bring his hot mouth closer to his cock, letting him lap up the fabric already damp with slick and precum.

“Do you want a treat, my puppy?”

Hongjoong nodded against the cock trapped beneath the fabric and the omega lifted his head, tangling his fingers in the alpha's hair, making him lift his head and look into his glassy eyes of desire. “You're so beautiful when you're desperate like that…” Seonghwa murmured, running his fingers over his mate's face, caressing the bridge of his jaw and nose, gently parting his lips. Hongjoong let him do, watching Seonghwa slide his underwear down his legs without taking his eyes off him, mesmerized by the aura emanating from his mate. Finally, it was with hungry eyes that he saw him lightly play with his panties, twisting them between his fingers before balling them up.

“Open up.”

A rumble resonated in Hongjoong's chest when he understood his omega's little game and he obediently opened his mouth, like a good boy waiting for his treat. The purr that emanated from Seonghwa made his inner wolf howl with pride and he nearly fainted when the damp cloth touched his tongue, flooding his mouth and senses with his mate's essence.

"Fuck, I want you so bad..." Seonghwa growled and Hongjoong buried his nose against his omega's erection, purring, his fingers back in his hair, tearing at his scalp. But he didn't care as he nuzzled his mate's sex with a moan and massaged his buttocks with his hands, sliding between them to collect his slick and tickle his entrance ; the cloth mopping up his saliva and mixing the sweet fluids on his tongue.

Suddenly, Hongjoong's back hit the mattress and he didn't have time to react before Seonghwa lunged at him, straddling him. Impatience and desperation etched in his features, making his eyes shine with an animal fury the alpha now knew well. He swallowed around the fabric as he took his omega's buttocks back in his hands, wasting no time before sliding one of his fingers into the open, soaked intimate area, drawing an indecent moan from the parted lips of his mate above him.

"Fuck puppy..." Seonghwa moaned, throwing his head back, interrupting his mission to undo the button of Hongjoong's pants now ravaged by fluid. And the alpha accelerated the movement of his finger, rediscovering his bite again and again on the omega's exposed neck, overcome by the excitement of being able to call him his own. Impatient, Seonghwa freed himself from the alpha's hands and hoisted up as he felt the finger leave his intimacy but he didn't waste any time before lunging at his pants and promptly removing them. And Hongjoong couldn't help the moan that escaped his mouth when his omega's hand finally closed around his neglected erection, making him sob and clench his teeth on the fabric in his mouth. Seonghwa's hot breath fanned against his ear as he leaned against him, his hand working wonders on his throbbing member.

“Put your hand above your head. If you touch me, I'll stop everything. Understood?”

Hongjoong growled in displeasure as he met his mate's gaze as the latter sat up, his gaze filled with lust and power. Not touching him?! How unfair was this?! Seonghwa chuckled lightly, gently pointing at him, pinning him to the mattress with his mere presence.

“T-t-t-t only good pups are rewarded. If you behave…” The omega swallowed, locking his gaze with the alpha’s, his eyes shining with suppressed emotion despite the dimness of the room. “If you behave, you’ll have the right to put a baby in me.”

 

The growls stopped in Hongjoong’s throat as Seonghwa’s words washed over him, sinking into his cells, his body ceasing to fight the injustice. Only their ragged breaths could be heard as they never took their eyes off each other, conveying silent promises through their gazes. Had the moment finally come? Or was this a taste, a practice run-through of what their future in bed would be like? Either way, Hongjoong was more than willing, more than ready to grant his request, like the good boy he was. Finally, the alpha swallowed, raising his arms and spreading them above his head, sealing their fate as a dazzling, moved smile played on his mate's lips.

"My good boy..." Seonghwa purred, placing a kiss on his forehead, making Hongjoong melt onto the mattress. The omega finally sat up to straddle him but the alpha frowned when he saw him turn his back to him, using his thighs to get into position. A wink was sent over the omega's shoulder and he growled when he saw him grab his erection and guide it to his hole.

"Enjoy the show. Look at your knot pumping me full."

And an indecent moan escaped Hongjoong as he saw his cock buried deep inside his mate's body, making his head spin at the divine yet already overwhelming sensation. His saliva dripped from his chin as he moaned continuously, his teeth most likely tearing the fabric in his mouth with each roll of the omega's hips. His fingers tightened on the sheets as Seonghwa contracted around him, undulating sensually on top of him, his back muscles dancing before his eyes.

Resist, Hongjoong he repeated tirelessly to himself as his hands itched to caress the tempting expanse in front of him. The last thing he wanted right now was to stop everything because he disobeyed. He wanted his reward. He wanted it viscerally.

 

An intense movement from Seonghwa above him made him aware of his knot as it already caught his rim, making them both hiss. Hongjoong's breath hitched in his chest as his mate met his gaze over his shoulder, his eyes shining with emotion and desire. His thighs began to tremble against the alpha's and the latter groaned, forcing himself to keep his arms still as he yearned to caress him, to soothe his muscles numb from the exertion.

His hips bumped into his mate to help him, making him sob as he met his movements, bringing them both to ecstasy before his knot finally locked inside him, making them both groan. A small cry escaped Seonghwa as he leaned against Hongjoong's thighs to catch his breath, his body on the verge of breaking and his whisper was loud and clear as he begged the alpha. “Put your baby in me. Make me a mummy.”

Hongjoong's knot exploded in the omega's guts and he instantly followed, contracting around the cock inside him and coating his own hand with his hot seed. A sob shook Seonghwa's body as a broken whisper escaped him. “Please hold me.” And the alpha didn't hesitate before straightening up and pushing them both over, his mate firmly anchored against his chest in his arms. Breathless and his jaw numb, he freed himself from his ravaged gag and placed a kiss on the damp nape of his neck within his lips' reach before murmuring, "I love you," against his skin, his voice cracking from all his growls. Tenderly, Hongjoong ran his hand over his omega's stomach, purring as he felt it swell with his semen beneath his fingers and he moaned as another sob ripped through his mate's chest.

"I want your pups, Hongjoong. I really want your pups…” and his broken voice made him tighten his grip on the trembling body against him. His face bathed in tears, the omega turned his head to meet his mate's gaze, seeking comfort and an answer to his pleas. But Hongjoong had long since made up his mind on the matter. And he never wanted to go back.

“Let’s have a baby.”

And the tears in Seonghwa’s eyes made the alpha’s well up. Smiling through the tears, the omega leaned toward his bedside table, careful not to pull too hard on the knot holding them together and dropped his pill bottle to the floor with a small, satisfied grunt. “B-bye, best friends.”

And it was with a laugh that Hongjoong pulled his omega back against him and kissed him tenderly, sealing their future and its promises, his hand lovingly protecting his belly. Who knows? Maybe life was already at work. He couldn't wait to discover it. And to experience this new stage with Seonghwa. Always.

 

The alpha chuckled softly against the back of his mate's neck as the latter purred tirelessly against his chest, replaying this timeless moment he knew he would never forget for many reasons.

“Mummy kink, hun?”

“Shut up, puppy,” the omega mumbled, the tips of his ears reddening violently as he hid his face in Hongjoong's arm.

“Yes, mummy.”

5 Years Later

 

Hongjoong smiled until his cheeks cracked as he walked through the front door of his house at the end of the workday, crouching down to welcome a laughing Chaerin dressed as Pikachu into his wide-open arms.

“Appa!”

“Hi, my baby,” purred the alpha, burying his nose in his daughter’s warm neck and lifting her into his arms, rocking in her milky, strawberry scent. One of his favorite parts of the day. “How was your day with Uncle Jongho today?”

“We played in the garden! I made a bouquet for you and one for Eomma!” babbled the little pup, rubbing against his father’s cheek. “Jiyongie helped me too!”

Hongjoong laughed kindly as he walked into the living room to find his son wrapped in a large towel, his hair dripping wet and a bored expression on his face while Jongho dried him off as best he could.

"What did you do, pup?"

But Jongho cut him off by glaring at the alpha, who only smiled wider, amused to see the young guard suffer every time he had to babysit the twins.

"Your threatening son saw fit to follow some animal into the garden, only to fall into a puddle that only he could find, obviously, since it was behind the only bush in your yard."

A small chuckle rumbled in Hongjoong's throat as he approached the sofa to ruffle his son's wet mop of hair. "Did you catch it?"

And the proud smile emerging on Jiyong's cold-reddened face was worth all the gold in the world to the alpha. His dearest treasures.

“Yes, appa! It was a buttefly!”

“Butterfly, my love.”

“Butterfly!”

 

“Where is Eomma, Appa?” Chaerin asked softly against his chest and Hongjoong placed a kiss on the top of her head to comfort her. It was hard for her to be separated from Seonghwa and he knew that his daughter was looking forward more than anything to her Eomma's return every day to bathe in his marshmallow scent.

“He will be back soon. He went to see the doctor with Uncle Soohyuk and will be home all the time starting tomorrow.” A small, excited cry escaped the little pup as she wriggled in her father's arms and Hongjoong looked her straight in the eyes, explaining for the umpteenth time what awaited them in the coming weeks. "But you'll have to be gentle with Eomma, okay? He needs to rest and won't be able to chase you both around all day, is that clear?" the alpha added, looking intently at Jiyong who was letting himself be dried off like a sweet puppy by a grumpy Jongho.

"I promise you, if the third one is like those two, you'll have to find you a new babysitter."

"You love them, tho."

And with a smile, Hongjoong settled down next to his son on the couch, cuddling him and his sister.

"True. About that, what did I tell you to ask Appa when he was coming home, guys?"

Excited, the little pups sat up on the couch under their father's surprised gaze before facing him, their angelic faces as serious as they could muster.

"Can we have your ID, sir?" Chaerin asked, glancing at Jongho out of the corner of her eye for confirmation while Jiyong touched his father's shoulders with his small hands.

"We have to search you before you can enter the house, Sir Appa."

And Hongjoong's incredulous expression made Jongho burst out laughing as he patted the twins' heads proudly. "Indeed, I love them."

Hongjoong was finishing dressing the twins in their pajamas when Seonghwa finally returned from his doctor's visit with Soohyuk. The other alpha wasted no time rushing over to his nephews, who screamed and threw themselves into his open arms, Jiyong with his pajama top half on under Hongjoong's exhausted gaze. He loved his children. He loved them more than anything. But he had to admit that he preferred it when the chores were divided between him and his mate.

 

He still remembered when Seonghwa had surprised him one morning by waking him up with breakfast in bed, a small box on the tray containing the pregnancy test that had changed the course of their lives, his big eyes filled with tears and his marshmallow scent heightened by emotion. He remembered his obsession with his mate's changing body, his almost pathological need to stay close to him, so much so that Seonghwa had to move his workstation to the one closest to his own. A few meters were too much for his wolf and his protective instinct. But it was hard to hold it against him when the alpha did everything he could to meet his omega's needs day and night, taking the mood swings, the tears and the tantrums with the utmost calm.

But more than anything, he remembered the first time he'd had the chance to hold Jiyong against him, his small fists clenched against his chest as he cried his heart out, leaning against Seonghwa, who smiled until his cheeks cracked, the fatigue evident on his features but made up for it with their little girl against his skin. 

“They’re so tiny…” the omega had murmured, stroking their little hands, his head resting against Hongjoong’s shoulder as he sat on a stool beside him while he was being stitched up.

“They’re beautiful, like their Eomma.”

But Seonghwa had protested, brushing his fingertip across Jiyong’s nose, purring nonetheless as Hongjoong placed a kiss on his forehead. “No, he’s the spitting image of his appa already. Look at his cute little nose.”

And never, ever would the alpha have imagined living like this, in a daily life lulled by the smell of milk, to the rhythm of bottles and diaper changes, drawings with markers on clothes and bedtime stories after work.

By Park Seonghwa’s side.

The incredible man who had been able to read him, to overcome his traumas to give him a chance to live this life he could embrace every day.

And to relive it all over again.

 

Hongjoong smiled as he approached Seonghwa who was hanging his jacket on the coat rack, his belly sheltering their 7-month-old baby girl on full display, where the alpha ran his hand tenderly. The omega purred as he placed a kiss on his mate's cheek and sighed, leaning against him.

"How are my two sweethearts?"

"We're good. Very good. Ready to rest a bit before the big leap into real life for this young lady," Seonghwa replied, placing his hand on Hongjoong's on his large belly.

And for the writing of a new chapter for their little family. We made good use of Soohyuk’s room after all Hongjoong thought, seeing the big alpha grab the little pups and go tell them their bedtime stories, a little ritual Soohyuk took pleasure in performing every Friday night when he came to spend the evening with them. “It was even time to encroach on the guest room now” the big alpha had joked when his brother had announced his new pregnancy and Hongjoong had smiled into his hand when he saw his mate blush, embarrassed but proud.

 

“Can you massage my feet please, my puppy?” Seonghwa murmured in his tired voice against Hongjoong’s shoulder and the alpha smiled at him before kissing him tenderly.

“Whatever you want, my love.”

He would have given him the stars to see him smile the way he did when he granted his requests. “I’m happy, Hongjoong.” whispered Seonghwa against his lips.

“Me too. Couldn’t be more.”

And it was after one last kiss that the alpha led his mate to the couch to allow him to rest while Soohyuk's voice echoed in the background, accompanied by the shouts of their children at each twist in his story. Yes, this was the life Hongjoong had always dreamed of. Even when, as now, Seonghwa was playing with him by caressing his crotch innocently as he settled comfortably on the couch, his cheeks flushed and his lips bitten, their bond pouring a wave of hormones into the alpha's reactive body.

"I fucking hate you," Hongjoong muttered under his breath, keeping an eye on the hallway and Soohyuk's possible arrival.

"Oh yeah?"

"Yeah." But his voice lacked bite as he took his mate's foot in his hand to begin his massage, his eyes lovingly boring into his. "As much as I love you."

And Seonghwa laughed tenderly, stroking the alpha's arm with one hand, the other resting on his stomach where their baby was growing. "I can live with that."

 

THE END

Notes:

You can find me on X for more insanity !

All comments and kudos are welcome