Against the cold

by ImaginaryJester

Summary:

Two hybrids escape from captivity on a cold winter night. Everything goes smoothly—until it doesn’t, when Hyunjin unexpectedly goes into heat.
Or alternatively:
A retelling of the Escape MV

Notes:

I wrote this fic for my friend.
(If you're reading this, bro, I hope we're both very drunk right now.)

Several days had passed since Chan and Hyunjin escaped. The catchers were on their tails—in the most literal sense—as the two shapeshifting hybrids ran north from the facility with all their might. The icy wind bit at their cheeks, but they paid it no mind. Freedom tasted sweet on their tongues, like the richest delicacy, even as the winter air clawed at their throats and stretched their lungs with icy spikes.

Their muscles, in contrast, burned with fire—long unused limbs cramped in tight cages finally had the chance to show what they were capable of, as the animalistic strength suppressed for so long finally found its outlet. Adrenaline pulsed through their veins, hot blood swelled their hearts—they were drunk on freedom as they tore through the night, before the alarms fully erupted.

They knew they had to stay silent, to flee as fast as they could, to remain unseen. Yet Hyunjin couldn’t suppress a few triumphant chuckles as the shouts of the guards and the blare of alarms faded behind them.

They knew they weren’t safe, constantly staying alert as they pressed north, knowing the catchers would not rest until they were caught. But after several days of constant running, they felt they had lost their pursuers enough to allow themselves a small moment of ease.

The last few nights were spent in light, restless sleep, each keeping watch while the other slept, in the darkness of the bushes, or leaning against a forgotten scrap of roadside metal. Whatever they could find served as meager shelter—but a piece of metal that offered even a little protection from the winter wind was better than relying solely on the jackets they had stolen during their escape.

During one such night, pressed close to each other and staring at the starry sky, Hyunjin felt an increasing longing for the unknown home Chan was leading them to.

“Are you sure they’re waiting for you?” he asked once again.

“I’m sure,” Chan replied. “Trust me.”

Hyunjin trusted him. Even if the idea of a pack waiting in warmth and safety until their lost leader returned seemed as distant as it was abstract, it was a vision of beauty, filling his heart with something better than the anger, loneliness, and helplessness he had known.

He wondered what it must feel like—to have a home. Or at least a pack that made a home, even if they hid in abandoned containers, far from the catchers who hunted stray hybrids, far from facilities experimenting on them and selling them into slavery.

It was this vision that Chan had enchanted Hyunjin with, stories of life before the cage, where there were no collars or chains, only laughter, community, and family.

Come with me. Those were the words that tipped Hyunjin’s decision and gave him the strength to break out of the cage, even if it meant chains cutting into his skin and bloodshed for anyone unfortunate enough to stand in their way.

“They’ll wait. They know I’ll come back to them.” Chan turned his gaze from the stars to look at Hyunjin. “I always come back.”

Hyunjin turned as well, their eyes meeting.

“Tell me about them. Again.”

“What more do you want to know?”

“Are they all wolves?”

Chan laughed softly, breath misting in the cold night.

“No one but me is. Everyone’s different.” Chan paused for a moment. “Well, one’s a dog—you could consider that the closest relation.”

“Any prey animals?”

“There are. Most of the guys are rather small hybrids.”

Hyunjin raised an eyebrow.

“So that’s how they chose you as the leader? Because you’re the biggest and scariest of them all?”

Chan laughed again, louder this time.

“So that’s what you think of me? The big bad wolf?”

Hyunjin shrugged.

“I’m just checking. Would they be afraid of a ferret?”

“Nah, as long as you promise not to hunt anyone.”

A smirk crossed Hyunjin’s face.

“I’ll behave.”

Chan returned the same smile.

“You wouldn’t be the only predator. We’ve got a fox, for example, among others.”

“So how?” When Chan raised an eyebrow, Hyunjin repeated the question. “How did they choose you as their leader?”

Chan turned his gaze to the moon and shrugged.

“They didn’t. I chose them. I found them when they had nowhere to go. And then they just followed me. And stayed.”

Hyunjin snorted with laughter.

“So what, you just went around picking up stray hybrids from the streets?”

Chan smiled faintly.

“You could put it that way.”

A moment of silence passed between them.

“Does that make me a stray too?” Hyunjin asked quietly after a moment.

Chan looked into his eyes again.

“And do you mind?”

Hyunjin thought for a while.

“No,” he said, gazing back at the stars once more. “I don’t think I do.”

***

Their journey eventually led them to a place that seemed like an abandoned warehouse. Trash, scrap, and scaffolding littered the area, but at the sight of something that even remotely resembled a trace of civilization, both of them quickened their pace, running joyfully toward a place where they might find shelter. As they got closer, they found scattered objects in the buildings with broken windows, suggesting it had once been some kind of shopping arcade, although it was clear that no one had set foot there for a very long time. The spacious halls had been left to themselves and to nature, which was gnawing at them with rust and dust.

Chan stayed slightly behind, letting Hyunjin rummage through every nook and cranny while he himself explored the exterior. The place was abandoned but fairly large, full of cracks and gaps that could serve as hiding spots if they needed to disappear. It was certainly better than remaining exposed in the open. They could stay here for a while.

Closing his eyes, Chan let the moonlight spilling through the clouds fill him with the energy he’d been starved of for months in confinement. He wanted to howl with joy, to unleash the feeling of freedom denied to him for so long. He wondered whether he should allow himself to do it, to howl so loudly that his voice would carry for miles, but instead he decided to leap onto the nearest sheet of metal, relishing the sensation of his body returning to its old movements. It was a wonderful feeling to interact with the environment, to feel that long-suppressed wild strength within himself. To climb, jump, lift objects, and hurl them aside. To grab a fence and shake it, knowing he was not constrained, not locked up, not trapped—he was free, free, free!

Hyunjin seemed to be going through the same thing. From a distance, Chan could hear laughter and crashing sounds, as if Hyunjin was smashing things in his path, clearly taking immense pleasure in finally being able to laugh, shout, and destroy something—to release all the anger and frustration that had consumed him since being caged.

He turned and headed toward the source of the noise. When he found Hyunjin, he was sitting on a worn-out mattress amidst total chaos, panting from exertion and clearly satisfied with himself.

“You’re making a lot of noise,” Chan commented, though there was no real reprimand in his tone. He felt the same energy thrumming through him, threatening to burst from his heart if he didn’t release it.

Hyunjin looked up, a sly smile cutting across his face, eyes sparkling with challenge.

“And what are you going to do about it? Stop me?”

Chan accepted the unspoken dare, assuming a combative stance. When Hyunjin stood and did the same, their eyes met. For a tense second, the air around them felt heavy, as if waiting for the first move. Then Hyunjin gave him a wink, and Chan lunged at him, pushing him onto the nearest piece of furniture until glass shattered and air was forced out of Hyunjin’s lungs, accompanied by a loud, satisfied laugh. Hyunjin responded in kind, pushing back with equal force, grabbing Chan’s jacket and pulling until they toppled onto the mattress.

They wrestled for a while; once Hyunjin swung a fist at Chan, ready to claw him, but Chan stopped him by gripping his wrist tightly. Another time, Chan swung a leg and flipped them, slamming Hyunjin’s body into the mattress and shaking him with all his strength, while Hyunjin laughed loudly. Chan laughed too, unable to stop, energy driving him to wrestle the younger man. He pinned him to the mattress and snapped his teeth near his face, growling fiercely.

Something flashed across Hyunjin’s face, as if he briefly snapped out of their frenzy to look at Chan with surprise, but just as Chan was about to respond with a questioning look, the expression vanished. Hyunjin’s face broke into a smile again, and he bared his own teeth, growling. He ran his tongue over his canines and, using Chan’s brief distraction, grabbed his shoulder and yanked hard, swinging his leg around Chan’s waist so that now Chan lay on his back with Hyunjin straddling him.

Leaning back, Hyunjin laughed victoriously, but his hands returned to the collar of Chan’s jacket, chuckling as he brought their faces close, breathing heavily, staring straight into his eyes. Clouds of their breath mingled in the narrow space between them. A moment of silence passed before Hyunjin leaned even closer. Chan held his breath, unsure of what he intended. Hyunjin’s gaze was unreadable yet fascinated, a hint of a smile still lingering on his lips. Then he leaned sideways and pressed his face against the side of Chan’s neck.

“I can smell you,” he murmured, nuzzling just below Chan’s ear.

“Really?” Chan was surprised. In the lab, they had been pumped with suppressants, and he had long lost the familiar scent that had accompanied him all his life. “How do I smell?”

“Dangerous.”

Chan laughed, tilting his head back.

“Maybe you really are a big bad wolf?”

Chan looked at him and growled slowly, showing his teeth again. This seemed to please Hyunjin, who grinned and bared his own teeth in response.

“You’re all bark and no bite.”

“Want me to bite you?” Chan asked with a raised eyebrow.

“I’d like to see you try.”

“You wouldn’t. I’d tear your throat out.”

“Then I…” Hyunjin raised a hand. “I’d scratch your eye out.”

“You promised to behave.”

Hyunjin chuckled and, biting his lip, lightly scraped under Chan’s left eye with his fingernail. Chan didn’t hold back any longer; using their position, he grabbed Hyunjin’s hips and dug his fingers into his waist, drawing a burst of delighted laughter from the younger man. Hyunjin dug his claws into the mattress near Chan’s head, tugged hard, throwing his body back in glee, laughing and scattering feathers over both of them.

Chan thought he wouldn’t mind if this moment lasted forever. Never mind the bone-chilling cold, the hard mattress, the awareness that they weren’t far enough away to feel completely safe. The sight of the beautiful hybrid arching over him with a wild grin and sparkling eyes was enough to stir something in Chan’s chest. He wanted to freeze this moment. He wanted Hyunjin to always feel this free, like he did now. He was so glad he had befriended this hybrid, who had been trapped far longer than he had. So glad Hyunjin trusted him enough to escape together and follow him blindly.

A wave of protectiveness washed over him, and his gaze softened, as did his grip on Hyunjin’s hips. He pulled him close, ending their playful tussle, and Hyunjin allowed himself to be drawn onto the mattress beside Chan, breathing heavily and still giggling. He looked into Chan’s eyes, as if waiting to see what he would do next, where their energy would carry them. When Chan made no move, Hyunjin turned to his side and scooted closer with a playful glint in his eye.

“And how do I smell?”

Chan propped himself slightly on his elbow and leaned over Hyunjin, nuzzling his face into the curve of his neck—the same spot Hyunjin had just pressed against. He noticed him inhale sharply but said nothing. He simply breathed in his scent.

“Your scent is… sweet.”

“Sweet?” Hyunjin frowned, somewhat disappointed.

“Very delicate. Probably the suppressants linger longer in you than in me.”

“I don’t want to be delicate,” he said. “I’m not delicate,” he repeated firmly.

Chan reached out and stroked the short hair on his head.

“Sure you’re not.”

“I’m serious. If they come for us…” Hyunjin raised a hand, emphasizing each word, “I’ll scratch their eyes out. I’ll tear their throats.”

“Well,” Chan smiled, “better they don’t find us. For their own good.”

***

The next hours passed as they explored what the place they had found had to offer. They quickly realized that they could find quite a few useful things here. Food, for example. After such a long time on the run, the adrenaline was finally wearing off, and it hit them just how long it had been since they’d eaten something that could be called real food. Sure, the place was abandoned, so they didn’t find anything fresh, but there was no shortage of old fridges filled with cans, preserved food, and dry provisions. They were pleased to discover that quite a few of these items were processed enough to still be edible, so they cleared out several shelves in no time. Only after satisfying their most pressing hunger did they begin to look for potential supplies for their future journey, setting some provisions aside.

Both agreed that they would have to continue their journey as soon as possible, but since the opportunity had presented itself, they could stay in their new hideout a little longer to gather strength and stock up. They took their time, wandering lazily between rooms and buildings, examining everything in their path. They found quite a few tools—mostly junk, but also a fair number of sharp objects that could come in handy. They found some clothes. They found a lot of broken furniture. Yet Hyunjin’s favorite discovery was the aquarium.

“How are they still alive?” Chan wondered, watching the fish swim among each other, carefree, flicking their fins as if the world around them weren’t dead.

Hyunjin, however, didn’t care about the how or why. He followed the little creatures with his eyes, like a predator stalking its prey. Yet there was nothing predatory in his gaze, only fascination with the beauty, the innocence of the fact that something could exist so independently, oblivious to the cruelty of the world around it.

“Do you think they know they’re all alone here?”

Chan stood on the other side of the aquarium, looking at it with a melancholic gaze.

“I think they don’t even realize they’re trapped in a tiny box.”

The thought of the fish’s entire world being limited to four fragile walls filled Hyunjin with an odd sadness.

“That must be so lonely, having only each other.”

“You think?” Chan asked, not taking his eyes off the aquarium. “I think it’s a blessing. To know nothing.”

Hyunjin felt strange. After all the adrenaline had left them, his body felt heavy. The cold began to bother them, so they set out to find something they could use to make a fire and warm themselves, at least a little.

They found the most wind-sheltered room and dragged a tattered mattress and a metal barrel there, where they could throw anything that might serve as fuel. When the first flames flickered to life, Hyunjin couldn’t suppress a contented hum as the warmth spread over his outstretched hands. It felt like an eternity since he had last felt warmth. Chan stood beside him, draping his arm over his shoulder, bringing them both closer to the fire to share its heat.

After a while, once they had warmed up, Hyunjin felt fatigue wash over him. His eyelids grew heavy, so he lay down on the mattress, and Chan did the same beside him. The mattress was narrow, so when they turned to face each other, their bodies pressed together, and their faces were so close that their breaths mingled. Hyunjin drew his hands to his chest, while Chan wrapped his arm around him, guarding their precious warmth, as he had done these past nights. Hyunjin shivered slightly, though he was certain he was already quite warm.

“Tomorrow we keep moving,” Chan said, and Hyunjin responded with a quiet hum. “In the morning, we’ll gather supplies, see if we can find a backpack or bag to carry them more easily.”

Hyunjin nodded.

“We’ll need weapons too,” Chan continued. “I think it’s best to find as many nails, shards of glass, or pieces of metal as possible. Sharp objects, but light and easy to carry.”

“Something bigger for the hand,” added Hyunjin. “Something heavy you can swing properly.”

“That’ll definitely come in handy,” Chan agreed. “But for now, we need a proper rest. Go to sleep, gather as much strength as you can.” He pulled him closer.

Hyunjin held his breath. His heart raced as the other man’s arm pressed him even closer than it seemed there was space for. He looked deep into Chan’s eyes, then his gaze involuntarily drifted down, along his strong nose, to his lips. Chan was so handsome, Hyunjin wondered if the wolf realized it. He felt his breath on his face, and seeing the clouds of vapor escape from those full, beautiful lips made a lump rise in his throat, which he swallowed with effort.

“Seems you’ve warmed up nicely,” Chan murmured. Hyunjin barely registered what he said, too focused on the movement of his lips, unconsciously tracing his own with his tongue.

“What?” he asked, absentmindedly.

“You’re warm.” Now Chan pressed his whole body against Hyunjin to feel more of that warmth himself, blocking the view of his face as he nestled Hyunjin’s head under his chin and wrapped him with his arm and leg. Hyunjin was slightly bigger, but he didn’t mind being pressed against Chan, letting himself be enveloped by his warmth and scent. Chan smelled fierce, like something wild and strong, but Hyunjin felt no fear. On the contrary, it felt like this wild strength could protect him—it felt familiar, giving him a sense of security, and at the same time intoxicating, making him feel he could stay like this forever. Hyunjin decided it was a very pleasant scent, so he allowed himself to be held, his eyelids slowly closing, his breath evening out.

“Now I can feel your scent too,” Chan murmured, inhaling.

“Is it stronger?” Hyunjin whispered, barely moving his lips.

“It is. But still sweet.” Hyunjin felt Chan’s lips curve into a smile against his temple.

“I’m not sweet,” he mumbled softly, barely audible, but there was no real bitterness in his voice, as he drifted off to sleep.

***

When Chan woke up, he felt comfortable. Sunlight peeked through the crack in the door, and he felt cozy and wonderfully warm. They had shifted slightly in their sleep—Chan was still wrapped around Hyunjin, who now lay on his side but with his back to him. Hyunjin was breathing deeply, so he must still be asleep. Chan had no intention of waking him; he wanted him to rest, and he too allowed himself a moment to enjoy the peaceful morning. He buried his face closer into Hyunjin’s body, marveling at how pleasantly warm the other man was.

Only after lying there for a while did he realize that he was far too warm for the conditions they were in.

This instantly woke him, and he opened his eyes. He lifted his head slightly and looked at Hyunjin. Hyunjin was turned away from him, eyes closed, but he wasn’t in the peaceful sleep Chan had assumed earlier. His breaths were deep but heavy and irregular. Chan anxiously grabbed his arm and noticed that the man was shivering.

“Hyunjin,” he whispered. His voice was tense, but he wasn’t sure if the other man was asleep. He didn’t want to wake him, but he had to ease his own worry.

Hyunjin mumbled something indistinctly, letting him know he had heard him.

“Hyunjin. You’re burning up.” He pressed the back of his hand to the side of his face. “Like an oven.”

“I’m fine,” Hyunjin muttered, but his voice sounded weak, which did nothing to calm Chan’s nerves.

The wolf sat up and turned him onto his back so he could look at his face. His cheeks were flushed, eyes glassy, sweat beading on his temples. He undoubtedly had a fever. Chan growled anxiously; something clenched in his chest at the sight, and he couldn’t stop the quiet, low rumble that escaped his throat as he checked his temperature and tried to detect other symptoms by smell.

He must have caught a cold. After days of running through ice and wind, the adrenaline had worn off, and it shouldn’t have surprised Chan that now Hyunjin’s exhausted body was succumbing to illness.

The logical explanation calmed Chan slightly, but it didn’t solve the real problem: what to do next and how to help him. He got to his feet and began pacing back and forth, frantically thinking.

Seeing Chan so agitated, Hyunjin slowly propped himself up into a sitting position.

“I said I’m fine,” he muttered weakly, but his head drooped as he tried to sit upright. “I just… feel like shit. But I’m fine.”

“Lie down,” Chan ordered, placing a hand on his shoulder. Hyunjin shook his head.

“I’ll be okay soon. Give me a moment, and we can go.”

“We’re not going anywhere. Not in this state.”

Hyunjin jerked his head up sharply, meeting Chan’s gaze.

“I said—”

“I know what you said, and that’s bullshit,” Chan cut him off. “You have a fever. You won’t make it even a few kilometers. We’ll stay here until you feel better.”

Hyunjin bared his teeth and growled quietly, but Chan had none of it, growling louder and effectively bringing him to heel. Then his expression softened as he stroked the ferret’s head.

“Hyunjin, please.” His tone became gentler. “Listen to me. Lie down and let me take care of you.”

Hyunjin seemed to struggle with his thoughts, but eventually gave in. He winced, his body taking over his stubbornness.

“Fine. But only for a moment. I’ll feel better soon, and then we’ll keep going.”

Chan nodded.

“I promise. Now lie down; I’ll bring you something to eat.”

He hesitated for a moment, then grabbed his jacket and began unzipping it.

“What are you doing?”

“Covering you. You’ll warm up.”

“You’re crazy. You need that jacket. Besides—” Hyunjin tugged at the collar of his own shirt. “I feel hot.”

As he tried to slip the jacket off his shoulders, Chan’s hands shot out to stop him.

“That’s just a false feeling. It’s freezing outside. Don’t take anything off.” He wrapped him tighter in the jacket. “You need to sweat it all out.”

Truth be told, Chan didn’t know much about illnesses, so he improvised whatever seemed logical, but he felt a small relief in giving an order and having at least some control over the situation.

When Hyunjin finally gave in and lay down on the mattress, Chan got up again.

“I’ll be right back.”

He ran out of the room to the place where they had stored food. He grabbed the first instant soup he could find. He could heat it over the fire to give Hyunjin something warm. Though Hyunjin had said he was already warm… maybe cold canned food would be better? Or maybe he’s thirsty? Yes, better to replenish fluids. But what if he doesn’t want to eat at all? Does one have an appetite when they’re sick?

Finally, Chan gave up and took a bit of everything.

When he returned to Hyunjin, the ferret was still in the room, but sitting on the mattress instead of lying down as instructed.

“You were supposed to lie down.”

“I don’t want to,” he replied, wincing. “I can’t stay still.”

Chan noticed the other kept fidgeting as if he couldn’t get comfortable. His face twisted as though every position caused him pain.

“I brought food.”

“I don’t want it,” he repeated. Chan truly didn’t know what to do anymore.

“What do you need?” he finally asked. “How can I help?” Chan felt an overwhelming need to do something—to take care of the younger hybrid.

Hyunjin just shrugged.

“I don’t know. Just… give me a moment. Let me sit for a bit, I’ll be fine soon.”

Chan nodded slowly, though he measured him with a skeptical gaze. The answer didn’t satisfy him. He had to do something. Find something to do, if not to heal Hyunjin, then at least to occupy himself.

He spent some time fussing about, unable to stay still, leaving the room repeatedly to look for something useful, some new idea, then returning to check if Hyunjin felt better.

He brought more food, which the ferret refused. He brought a hat, which he wouldn’t put on. He even brought some snow from outside and pressed it to Hyunjin’s forehead to reduce the fever, noting with satisfaction that this one he tolerated, and it seemed to lift his mood.

At one point, he brought him a shard of glass.

“What’s this?” Hyunjin asked, picking up the sharp piece.

“I broke a window. I thought you should have something on hand in case we’re found.”

Hyunjin examined the shard, checking its sharp edges.

“You have one too?”

“I’ll take something for myself. Though I think when it comes down to it, I’ll rely on my claws and teeth.”

Hyunjin looked at him.

“I can fight too, you know.”

Chan wasn’t willing to agree.

“You’re weakened. For now, focus on resting.”

Hyunjin opened his mouth to protest, but Chan stopped him.

“Take the glass. For my peace of mind.”

Hyunjin held his gaze for a moment, then closed his mouth and finally slipped the shard into his pocket.

Chan sat next to him and embraced him in a gesture of gratitude.

***

Something was wrong. Something was very wrong with Hyunjin’s body.

He tried to calm himself down. It wasn’t the first time he’d been sick, but this wasn’t the feeling of an ordinary fever.

He couldn’t just curl up in a corner, pull his jacket tight, and wait for the shivers to pass, for the fever to break, for whatever had infected him to burn itself out. Instead, everything kept getting worse.

He felt nauseous. His whole body ached, every muscle, not just on the outside but inside too, as if his very organs were twisting in knots. His mind was scattered. He tried with all his strength to focus on his surroundings, but it was difficult, as if all his senses were veiled in fog.

But most of all, he was unbearably hot. He didn’t know why—after all, the air was so cold that everything around was freezing—but his skin felt like it was burning alive. Beads of sweat ran down his body, soaking into his clothes, which clung to him mercilessly, too coarse, too irritating. He wanted to rip off every layer, bare himself to the icy air, and let the soothing winter wind caress his overheated skin.

He didn’t do it, though. It seemed far too inappropriate with Chan beside him—the same Chan who had been so insistent that he keep himself wrapped in warm clothes.

Speaking of Chan, the other man hadn’t left his side for a moment. At the start of the day, he had been visibly restless, pacing back and forth, leaving the room only to return with various objects he thought might help. But after some time, his agitation eased. Instead, he settled down beside Hyunjin and didn’t move, only occasionally checking on him, touching his forehead, brushing close to scent his condition, wrapping an arm around him, pulling him close in the hope of offering comfort. A soft, steady rumble came from his chest, probably without him even realizing. Hyunjin didn’t mind. In fact, it helped a little. Every sound, every small movement Chan made, every press of his nose against his neck—all of it soothed him.

So Hyunjin allowed himself to stay like that. He suffered in silence, not wanting to trouble Chan with complaints, but he found solace in his presence, in his scent. Chan’s scent had grown stronger—it no longer carried the edge of worry like it had that morning, but instead became steady, more intense, smothering Hyunjin’s own unease like a heavy blanket wrapped around him. Hyunjin turned his face slightly, burying his nose against Chan’s neck to draw in more of that calming fragrance. It was pleasant, grounding—earthy, like something from the depths of a wild forest where untamed nature reigned but no human danger could reach. His most primal instincts seemed to call him toward it. When he inhaled it, the pain dulled; the twisting cramps turned into something more bearable, a muted, searing pressure deep inside him.

He breathed it in deeper, and Chan let him, tilting his head further to the side, making space for him. Hyunjin took advantage, pressing his nose closer into the crook of his neck where the scent was strongest, and let out a pleased hum as the soothing aroma washed over his senses. He wondered if he might even taste it if he ran his tongue over his skin. So he did—just a small, delicate lick—and when he was proven right, when that delicious scent melted across his taste buds, he pressed his tongue more firmly against Chan’s skin, dragging it slowly from collarbone up to just behind his ear. When Chan shivered beneath him and let out a sharp gasp, Hyunjin grazed his teeth lightly over the skin.

“Hyunjin…” Chan’s voice was tight, but Hyunjin didn’t hear it, too intent on mapping every inch of his neck with his tongue, scraping gently with his teeth, nipping now and then, savoring the intoxicating scent and wanting more of its taste. It dulled his senses in the best way, wrapping him in a haze that numbed the pain, softened the cramps—if only it could take away this unbearable heat, too. Hyunjin wanted to tear off every irritating piece of clothing and press himself against Chan’s body, to surround himself with nothing but cool air and that wonderful scent soothing his overheated skin that was damp in every possible place, from his neck, his chest, to his back and lower, down between…

“Oh, fuck.”

Hyunjin’s eyes shot open as the dreadful realization crashed over him, hitting him to his core. He jerked upright so suddenly that Chan looked at him in shock, trying to catch his gaze—but Hyunjin refused to meet his eyes. He pushed away roughly, ignoring the hand reaching for him, and turned away, blind to the hurt flickering across Chan’s face.

“I’m sorry,” Hyunjin muttered quickly. “Fuck.”

“Hyunjin.” Chan’s voice was concerned but gentle. He reached out again but stopped himself, withdrawing his hand slowly. “Hyunjin, it’s alright. Nothing happened.”

Hyunjin buried his face in his knees, palms pressed against his eyes. This couldn’t be happening. Not now. Damn his rotten luck.

“Hyunjin, tell me what’s going on,” Chan asked, calm and careful. “Did… did I do something wrong?”

Hyunjin’s head snapped up at once. No—how could Chan even think that? He shook his head, sighing heavily, dropping his gaze again. He wrestled with the words while Chan waited patiently, his eyes steady. Finally, Hyunjin drew a deep breath.

“We might have a problem.”

Chan leaned closer.

“Are you hurt?”

Hyunjin shook his head again.

“No. I’m not even sick.” He swallowed, forcing himself to look at Chan. “My damn heat just started.”

Chan blinked, caught off guard.

“Your…” he began slowly, studying him as if seeing him in a completely new light. “You’re an omega…”

Hyunjin grimaced bitterly.

“What, do I not look like one?”

A faint blush colored Chan’s cheeks.

“I… I didn’t… all the guys in the pack are betas, and with the suppressants I couldn’t sense anything—I should have known…”

Hyunjin waved a hand sharply, cutting off whatever spiral Chan was about to fall into.

“I should have known right away. But hell, it’s been so long since the last time—those damn suppressants—I didn’t even think of it.”

“I should have known,” Chan repeated. “Your scent got so strange.”

“Strange?” A note of insecurity crept into Hyunjin’s voice. “You mean… bad?”

“No!” Chan rushed to assure him. “It’s very nice. It just… grew stronger. I couldn’t place it.” He swallowed. “But it’s… very pleasant. Truly.”

Chan’s blush deepened, which Hyunjin under other circumstances might have found endearing—if they weren’t standing before such a massive problem.

“I won’t recover quickly. We’ll have to keep moving like this.”

“No way. You can barely stand.”

“Then go without me. I’ll catch up in a few days.”

Chan bristled.

“Absolutely not! I’m staying here with you.”

Hyunjin shook his head.

“Chan, you have to keep going. They could find us.”

“I won’t leave you here alone! I’ll never leave you alone, do you understand?!” Chan’s voice rose, nearly a shout, but Hyunjin was too shaken by his words to mind.

He’ll never…

“I mean it,” Chan said firmly, his eyes locked with Hyunjin’s, unflinching. “You won’t be alone. I’m here with you, and I always will be.”

Something inside Hyunjin’s chest tightened at those words, his eyes stinging.

“Chan…”

Chan’s hands settled on his shoulders, his gaze locking deep into Hyunjin’s.

“If they find us, I’ll deal with them. Don’t be afraid. We’re never going back there. I promise.”

Hyunjin let out a shaky breath, clouds of white misting the cold air.

“It’ll be… awkward. With me like this…”

Chan shook his head.

“I don’t want to embarrass you. I’ll give you space. I’ll keep my distance, patrol nearby. Just tell me if you need anything.”

Hyunjin bit back the urge to shout that this was the exact opposite of what he needed—that he wanted Chan close, holding him like before. But he said nothing. Of course, it would be more uncomfortable for Chan, seeing him in this state… He certainly wouldn’t want…

Hyunjin drew in a deep breath and nodded.

“Fine,” he said at last, then added quietly, “I’m sorry.”

Chan frowned.

“For what?”

“You know.” Hyunjin tilted his head toward Chan’s neck. “For earlier…”

Chan’s hand rose to the spot where Hyunjin’s teeth had grazed him.

“Don’t apologize. I…” He trailed off. Hyunjin waited for the rest, but it never came.

Instead, Chan stood abruptly.

“I’ll be outside. At night, I’ll sleep nearby. Call me if you need anything. I’ll hear you.”

And he left the room quickly, before Hyunjin could say a word.

Hyunjin curled in on himself.

The pain returned.

***

Chan patrolled the area. The short winter day had already sunk into dusk, and the shadows of the buildings were slowly drawn out by the moonlight filtering through the clouds.

It had been several hours since he had left Hyunjin, though every part of his body resisted the separation, screaming at him to return—to be beside the other hybrid, to make sure he was safe, cared for, lacking nothing. His heart ached at the thought of Hyunjin lying there alone, while every instinct in Chan demanded that he go back, wrap him in a tight embrace, and shield him with his own body from every danger.

But he couldn’t. He had to remain vigilant. And more than that—he couldn’t risk doing something to Hyunjin that the other might regret.

The truth was, Hyunjin smelled amazing. Before, Chan hadn’t been able to place it, but once everything became clear, he understood why it had been so hard to keep himself away.

If it had been left to him, Chan could have devoured Hyunjin. He wanted to cover him completely with his body, breathe in his scent, sink his teeth into his neck and soothe the bite with his tongue. He wanted to answer every need, indulge every whim, caress his skin until his body melted in his arms and his voice dissolved into soft whimpers of pleasure.

He wanted all of it—so much that it never even crossed his mind to blame Hyunjin’s heat. To him, this longing felt no different from any other day he looked at the hybrid and had his breath stolen by his beauty. Chan was convinced Hyunjin was the most beautiful being he had ever seen, and every day spent together in captivity, every secret conversation whispered in the dark of their cages, every glimpse into the life behind bars and chains only deepened his certainty: he would never allow Hyunjin to spend even a day longer in that place. He wanted to take him away, to let him taste freedom forever, and bring him into the pack the ferret had never known. He wanted to be everything Hyunjin had been denied but always deserved. He wanted to be there for him. Every moment of closeness, every brush of contact, every touch made him ache to pull him closer still, to kiss him and never let go until Hyunjin’s body had melted into his own for good.

But he could not allow it. Chan was certain it was only the fever of heat clouding Hyunjin’s senses. Surely, Hyunjin did not see him the same way.

Chan swallowed the thought bitterly and fixed his eyes on the broken wires hanging from the frozen power lines. From the shattered window of the upper floor where he stood, he had a wide view of the surroundings. He saw nothing unusual beyond snow, frost covering scraps of metal, and random debris tumbling across the yard in the grip of the wind.

He shivered in his winter coat, aching for Hyunjin’s warmth. Perhaps he should go down to the ground floor, find something to burn, and keep his vigil beside a fire. He wondered whether Hyunjin was comfortable enough, whether he had enough layers to keep the icy air from seeping into his fevered body and making him truly sick. Maybe he should check on him, just for a moment—make sure everything was alright, light a fire for him, just in case.

With those thoughts tugging at him, he started toward the stairs—when, out of the corner of his eye, he caught a flicker of light. He turned back to the window and peered outside. At first he saw nothing and thought he had imagined it, until he noticed movement on the horizon. Far in the distance, a faint glow appeared—but it was undeniably drawing closer. Soon it split into two points of light, and Chan realized they belonged to an approaching car.

His eyes widened in alarm, and without hesitation he bolted toward the stairs, this time at a dead sprint, heedless of the frost on the concrete that threatened to send him crashing down. He had to reach Hyunjin—as fast as his body would carry him.

When he finally burst into the room where he had left him, the other hybrid looked terrible. He lay curled up, fingers digging into the mattress as though desperately clinging to something soft, something soothing. His legs were pressed tightly together, his breathing ragged and fractured by pained, needy whimpers.

The moment he sensed his presence, he lifted his head to look at him.

“Chan…” he wailed, long and broken.

Everything in Chan twisted at the sight. The overwhelming sweetness of his scent struck him with crushing force. Under any other circumstances he would have rushed to the omega’s side, would have given him everything his soul desired—if only to kiss that pained expression from his face.

But these were not normal circumstances. They had no time to lose.

“Hyunjin, someone’s coming. I need you to get up.”

Hyunjin blinked up at him, confusion flickering in his gaze as if the words didn’t quite register. But after a moment understanding dawned, and a grimace of anguish twisted his face.

“What did you see?”

“Lights. For now, just one car. I don’t know if it’s them. I’ll deal with it, but you need to hide better before they get here.”

With trembling hands, Hyunjin pushed himself off the floor, his legs barely able to support him. Chan noted that the mattress where he had been lying was soaked—not just with sweat—but said nothing, forcing himself not to notice the way Hyunjin peeled his pants from his skin. Summoning all his focus, Hyunjin looked at him with weary yet determined eyes.

“Let’s go.”

Chan turned toward the exit, making sure Hyunjin followed. He planned to lead him toward the warehouse, where there were more corners to squeeze into, places where he could remain unseen. He strained his ears for any sound, but heard nothing except Hyunjin’s measured breathing at his back. Together they slipped outside, their steps silent as they crossed the yard.

Chan had begun to believe they might make it when suddenly the sound of an engine rose from ahead. Hyunjin froze, but Chan spun around and seized his hand, dragging him in the opposite direction. Stealth no longer mattered—they ran full speed, Chan scanning desperately for any other shelter. His eyes caught on a garage shed, and he yanked Hyunjin that way.

“Chan—”

“Shhh…” He pressed him close and covered his mouth with his hand, listening for the engine. He heard nothing—but in the distance a light shifted, as if a flashlight swept across the darkness. Chan turned back to the shed. It was locked. He tugged at it, but the door wouldn’t budge. He cursed under his breath.

“Chan.” Hyunjin repeated. “I can do this.”

Chan turned to see what he meant and found Hyunjin watching him with a sure look in his eyes. In his hand he clutched a jagged shard of glass—the one Chan had given him earlier. His brows were drawn in fierce determination, his eyes burning with something wild. His stance was set, ready to strike.

“Hyunjin, no!” Chan hissed when he realized what he intended.

“We’ll take them down. Just like we said.”

Chan rushed to him.

“Not in your condition. Please—hide.”

Anger flashed across Hyunjin’s face.

“I told you I’d claw their eyes out.”

“Hyunjin, I’m begging you.” Chan gripped his shoulder so tightly it had to hurt, his voice breaking with desperation. “I’ll deal with them. But you—run and hide. Promise me you’ll hide.”

Hyunjin opened his mouth to argue, but Chan shook him, pleading.

“Promise me!”

For a heartbeat Hyunjin held his gaze, then finally gave in, muttering a curse under his breath.

“Fine.”

Chan exhaled.

“Run back the way we came. Hide as high up as you can. They’ll start by searching the ground floor—it’ll buy you time. I’ll draw them away and get rid of them. Then I’ll find you. I promise.”

He took his hand, squeezing it in a reassuring grip.

“Go.”

Hyunjin held his gaze for a few seconds longer, then, to Chan’s immense relief, turned and ran.

When Hyunjin disappeared from sight, Chan turned back toward the source of the light and, cloaked in shadow, crept closer to get a better view of who they were dealing with—while keeping himself unseen. Truth be told, Chan wanted to avoid a confrontation at all costs. But if it came to that, he was ready to kill. Or at the very least, incapacitate whoever had come looking for them. After all, there had already been a minor incident back at the facility during their escape. But then, there had been two of them, and the guards had been caught by surprise.

Now, Chan had no doubt that he was strong and skilled enough to handle a guard on his own. He was quick, powerful, and the fierce protectiveness he felt for the other hybrid coursed through his veins, sharpening his readiness for a fight. Yet he couldn’t be sure what exactly they were up against. Perhaps this time their pursuers carried weapons. And if he were wounded, he wouldn’t be able to stop them from finding Hyunjin. Until he had the other in his line of sight and knew he was safe, Chan chose to keep watch—hoping they could remain undiscovered.

He crouched behind a massive crate, gripping a metal pipe he’d found on the ground. Leaning carefully, he peeked around the corner.

From his observation, Chan determined there was only a single man. He had stepped out of a small car and was now crossing the yard, sweeping his flashlight over the scattered scrap. Against the light, Chan couldn’t make out his silhouette clearly. One man he could handle easily. But if this stranger were to return to the facility and file a report, Chan would much rather he left believing the place was deserted than vanish under suspicious circumstances and draw unwanted attention. Besides, perhaps he wasn’t even a catcher—maybe just a random passerby, a scavenger looking for scrap. Chan couldn’t know for certain.

So he kept tracking the man, who seemed to do little more than scan the ground, his beam catching on warehouse walls as he moved slowly through the yard. Yet there was no urgency in his steps, no real determination in his search. With relief, Chan noted that for the time being, the man was not drifting toward the place where Hyunjin had gone.

Shadowing him closely, Chan slipped between walls and sheets of metal until he reached a tall structure—something like a shaft or a chimney; Chan wasn’t entirely sure. A metal ladder ran up along its side. Perfect, he thought, climbing swiftly yet silently, until from the higher vantage point he could watch more closely while remaining unseen.

When he was high enough, Chan crouched like a predator stalking its prey, his gaze fixed on the man below. He watched as the stranger lingered a while longer, peering into a few rooms before finally—much to Chan’s relief—turning back toward the car. Finding nothing, the man climbed inside. It took him a moment to get the engine to catch, but at last the machine rumbled to life, and he reversed before driving out through a gap in the fence.

Chan tracked the car for a long while, never letting it out of his sight until he was certain it had wanished beyond the horizon. Only then did he allow himself to ease, exhaling in relief. They were safe—for now, at least. Whoever that man had been, Chan could only hope that despite all the commotion, they had managed to stay quiet enough to go unnoticed, and that the catchers would abandon their search in this area.

Now only one thought filled his mind—Hyunjin. He had to make sure he was safe. With all his heart, he prayed Hyunjin hadn’t done anything reckless, that he had listened and stayed hidden. That single thought drove him all the way down the ladder, his limbs flying over the frozen rungs with dizzying speed until he was low enough to leap the rest of the way and sprint in the direction where he had last seen the other man disappear.

“Hyunjin?” he called into the open space, his eyes scanning the surroundings. No answer came, so he rushed into the ground floor of the building from which he had been keeping watch earlier, straining his senses in an attempt to track him by scent. From this distance it was faint, but still there, and he followed it, moving swiftly in the direction where it grew stronger.

He began climbing the stairs, relief washing over him with every step as he confirmed that Hyunjin’s scent—though undeniably sweet and overwhelming—was not laced with any new trace of distress. He was safe, unharmed. Yet the closer Chan drew, the harder it became to ignore how that scent stirred his own senses. It pulled at him, urged him forward, every instinct demanding he go to Hyunjin. But he forced himself to rein them in, to approach with composure.

He remembered what he had promised about giving him privacy. All he needed to do was make sure Hyunjin was safe. That was all. Then he would leave him be.

At last, he found Hyunjin on the top floor. Chan was genuinely impressed that he had made it so far. But the moment he stepped across the threshold, his heart ached in pieces at the sight before him: the hybrid curled tightly on the cold concrete, surrounded by a scatter of debris and rubble. Arms wrapped around his knees, he still clutched a shard of glass in trembling hands. He looked so sad and frail, yet somehow still beautiful bathed in the pale moonlight spilling through the window.

When Hyunjin’s gaze fell on Chan, his face softened with relief, and a sob escaped him.

“Chan…” he reached out, and Chan found he had no strength to hold back. He rushed across the room, dropping to his knees to gather the omega into his arms. He enfolded Hyunjin tightly, running his hands over his head and back, pressing his face into his neck, desperate to calm the trembling hybrid that shuddered with quiet sobs.

“I’m here. I’m here. I told you I’d find you,” he whispered urgently, rocking them gently. “It’s okay now. Shhh…” He growled softly, sending vibrations through his chest. He held Hyunjin close as the hybrid pressed fingers tightly into his shoulders and buried his face in Chan’s hair at the nape of his neck. Chan allowed him to nuzzle against it, letting his scent convey safety, reassurance, and the promise of care.

Hyunjin let himself be held that way for a long moment until his grip finally eased, and he pulled back slightly to meet his eyes. Chan returned a gentle, calming look, and Hyunjin searched his face with an unreadable expression, seeking something. Chan didn’t know if he found it, but he definitely found something when his half-lidded eyes lingered on Chan’s mouth—and a moment later, his own lips followed. Hyunjin pressed against him with a force that contrasted with the extraordinary softness of his mouth. Chan’s breath caught as Hyunjin pressed his whole body against him, exhaling through closed lips that began to move, caressing his own. The kiss was desperately tender, as if Hyunjin was drowning and Chan was the lifeline thrown to save him.

Chan felt his head spin. Only when he truly registered what was happening did it hit him—he hadn’t responded, though he should have. He should return the kiss. And so he did. When Hyunjin’s lips parted ever so slightly, Chan seized the moment, aligning his own perfectly, their mouths meeting in seamless harmony. He poured every emotion into the kiss, tightening his hold on Hyunjin’s body and answering with a fierce intensity.

Hyunjin sighed in contentment, surrendering to the kiss, letting Chan take the lead while melting entirely into his embrace. They remained locked in that kiss for a long moment before finally pulling apart. Chan was the first to open his eyes, drinking in the sight of Hyunjin. His cheeks were flushed, and the faint beginnings of a blissful smile tugged at the corners of his slightly parted lips.

God, he was beautiful.

For a moment, Chan’s heart clenched with bitter guilt at having been swept away by his own dangerous emotions, while Hyunjin had only acted out in response to his instincts. But then Hyunjin bit his lip, and his face stretched into a full, radiant smile.

“I’ve wanted to do this for so damn long.”

Chan blinked.

“Really?”

Hyunjin opened his eyes and looked at him as if it was the most ridiculous question he’d ever heard.

“Of course. From the very beginning, back at the facility.”

Chan didn’t know what to say. He had never imagined in his life that Hyunjin could feel anything for him. If only he knew what he himself felt…

“I had no idea…”

Now Hyunjin’s gaze was shadowed with a flicker of uncertainty.

“I… I shouldn’t have…”

Chan didn’t let him finish his sentence. He pulled him back into his arms, and whatever Hyunjin had meant to say died on his lips as Chan deepened the kiss. Hyunjin whimpered, melting into his embrace as Chan drew him even closer, until there was no closer to go. Hyunjin had to climb onto his thighs, straddling him, arms wrapped tightly around Chan.

Chan dove into his scent, feeling as though he might drown entirely. The sweet, intoxicating aroma enveloped him from every side, pressing against him as Hyunjin’s lips pressed against his, as his tongue invaded Chan’s mouth and tangled with his in a desperate grip, as his hips pressed down against him, making his head spin.

Chan pulled back from his lips, breathing heavily.

“Chan, please,” Hyunjin whined. “Don’t leave me… I can’t take it anymore.”

His hands clung desperately to Chan’s jacket, to his shoulders.

“Please…”

Chan’s breath trembled.

“What do you need from me?” He was ready to give him everything. Whatever Hyunjin asked for, Chan would provide.

“I need you. I want you, Chan.”

“Are you sure?” Chan needed to know that Hyunjin truly wanted this. His whole body screamed need, but Chan had to be certain that Hyunjin understood what he was asking, that it wasn’t just the heat clouding his mind. Chan would give him everything, care for him in the best possible way, leave him sated in every sense of the word. But he needed to know that Hyunjin wanted it—that he was granting him the privilege of joining him in his heat, that he wouldn’t hate Chan for taking advantage of him in this state, something he would regret forever.

Hyunjin groaned in exasperation at seeing Chan slip into another spiral. He kissed him fiercely, then bit down on his lip so hard that it broke the skin. Pulling back, he licked his teeth and locked eyes with him, his gaze utterly unwavering.

“I’m absolutely fucking sure.”

Chan nodded and dove back into the kiss, which had grown hungrier, hotter. Now it was his turn to take Hyunjin’s lip between his teeth, biting down so that he drew a needy whine from him. Hyunjin parted his lips, letting Chan’s tongue slip inside.

He moaned loudly as Chan shifted them slightly, leaning forward and slipping his hands under Hyunjin’s shirt to trace his back with his fingers. His skin was hot, damp beneath Chan’s touch, as delicate as silk. Hyunjin whimpered as Chan’s cool fingers glided across his body. He broke the kiss, tilting his head back and licking his lips, while one hand slid down to his side, moving toward his stomach, then glided lightly upward, caressing his chest before returning to rest at his waist.

Chan used his free mouth to press kisses along his neck, gently tracing with his tongue, savoring Hyunjin’s scent just as Hyunjin had done earlier. He trembled under Chan’s touch as his lips traveled along the column of his neck to his collarbone, where Chan placed another kiss. Hyunjin mewled, his hips moving, pressing against Chan, clearly showing him what sensations his explorations provoked. Hyunjin’s fingers gripped the edge of his own jacket, but as the hybrid began pulling at his clothes, Chan stopped him, holding his hands firmly.

“Wait. These aren’t the right conditions.”

Hyunjin looked at him, confused but also impatient.

“What do you mean?”

“We have to do this properly. I can’t let you go through your heat on cold concrete.”

“Chaaaan,” Hyunjin whined, clearly letting him know he didn’t care at all and that concrete was the last thing on his mind right now, but Chan remained steadfast. He glanced around the floor, but aside from something resembling a worn, dirty blanket, he found nothing that could make the surface any softer or more comfortable.

“Give me a moment,” he muttered, pushing himself to his feet.

“Chan!” The ferret sounded clearly displeased at being forced to break the embrace.

“I’ll be right back. I promise.”

He pressed a quick kiss to his lips and dashed out of the room. Moving swiftly, he hurried down to the ground floor and then through the cold winter air toward their previous hideout, where the tattered mattress lay. It was soaked with Hyunjin’s sweat, but also his scent. Chan couldn’t resist pausing for a moment to take a deep breath in the spot heavy with the scent of his slick. He groaned; the aroma struck straight to his groin, painfully reminding him of just how much he desired the omega.

He grabbed the mattress under his arm and dragged it along, heading toward the exit, but paused for a moment. What else did he need? What else could he find to create a semblance of a comfortable nest for Hyunjin? He stopped by the spot where they had found some clothes earlier. After quickly rifling through the pile of rags, his eyes landed on a pair of soft, fur-lined coats. Perfect. He grabbed them and headed back to Hyunjin, dragging the mattress and clutching the bundle of furs as he climbed the stairs to the waiting omega.

When he arrived, he was greeted by the wonderful sight of Hyunjin lying on his back, legs spread, his shirt pulled up over his stomach as he traced his own fingers along it. Catching sight of Chan, Hyunjin shot him a reproachful look, scolding him silently for leaving him alone—but the expression quickly softened as Chan’s scent filled the room, reminding him why he had wanted him back in the first place. Hyunjin’s tongue flicked across his lip before he bit it, stifling a moan of pleasure in response to the intoxicating scent that made his body writhe in anticipation on the floor. His own delicious aroma swirled through the room, hitting Chan with more intensity than the scent from the mattress ever had, a potent reminder of where it came from. Hyunjin’s legs were spread invitingly, and Chan’s mouth watered at the thought of the sweet slick gathering between his thighs.

A shiver ran through him, and a low growl rumbled from deep within his chest. Hyunjin reached out to him, and Chan wasted no more time lingering in the doorway. He stepped forward and leaned over him, setting down everything he’d been holding on the floor.

“Come on. Let’s get you up,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to Hyunjin’s lips and lifting him by the shoulders. Hyunjin whined in protest, but allowed himself to be raised, and as his back sank onto the soft mattress, he immediately relaxed with a contented sigh.

“Better?”

Hyunjin nodded, tilting his head to nestle a little more into the soft surface.

“I brought this,” Chan said, holding the coat up to him.

As Hyunjin’s fingers brushed over the soft fabric, his eyes widened, and a satisfied little hum escaped him. Immediately, he clutched the fur, pulling it close, pressing his face into it, and wrapping his body around it.

Chan let out a quiet chuckle at the sight of the ferret kneading the soft material with his hands, pleased with himself. He knelt over him and placed the second coat on the other side, creating an even cozier space around the omega.

When Hyunjin felt Chan’s body looming over his own, he opened his eyes and held him captive in his gaze. He reached up, cupped Chan’s face, and drew him in, pressing his lips to his again. Impatience seemed to pulse from him as he wrapped his legs around Chan, his knees pressing into his sides.

Chan hissed sharply as the omega pressed against him, lifting his hips and grinding against him.

“Eager, aren’t we?”

“You’re taking too long,” Hyunjin breathed into the space between their lips. “Just undress me already.”

Chan hesitated above him.

“It’s freezing. You’ll catch a cold.”

“Well,” Hyunjin wrapped his arms around Chan and gave him a playful wink. “Then keep me warm.”

Chan didn’t hesitate any longer—he couldn’t refuse when the man beneath him disarmed him so effortlessly.

He lifted himself into a seated position and pulled Hyunjin up with him to his lap. Chan’s hands first shrugged off his jacket, then rested on the edge of Hyunjin’s sweat-soaked shirt. His fingers slid beneath the fabric, tracing the bare skin beneath, slowly gliding upward, rolling the material up over his chest. Hyunjin shivered and let out a breath as the cold winter air kissed his damp skin. Chan’s hands swept up his sides once more before gripping the hem of the shirt and pulling it over Hyunjin’s head.

Confronted with the sight of Hyunjin in all his half-naked glory, Chan couldn’t help but marvel at his beauty. He was otherworldly, his skin glistening in the moonlight, so warm it seemed to steam in the chilly air. Their breaths mingled between them, clouds of vapor drifting from his parted, red lips, while flushed cheeks complemented his sparkling eyes.

He looked so beautiful that Chan swept him into his arms, capturing his lips in a deep, hungry kiss as his hands roamed along the full length of Hyunjin’s back. Hyunjin moaned into the kiss as his hardened nipples brushed against Chan’s jacket while he drew his entire body closer, as if he wanted to consume him. Chan growled into his mouth, biting hungrily, only to soothe the nip instantly with his tongue.

He tilted his head, planting kisses at the corner of his lips, then along his cheek, jawline, under his ear, and lower and lower along his neck, until he reached the bend where his scent was most potent. Hyunjin moaned loudly as Chan traced the spot with his heated tongue, savoring the exquisite taste and teasing it gently with his teeth. Hyunjin’s fingers tangled in his hair, gripping tightly enough for Chan to feel the tug at the nape of his neck, but he didn’t clench his teeth. Not there. Instead, he shifted his mouth slightly higher and nibbled at his neck, climbing upward, slowly biting along the column of his neck, immediately softening each bite with his tongue, tasting him like the sweetest fruit.

Hyunjin moaned loudly, tilting his head back to give him more room, his fingers locked in Chan’s hair with a vice-like grip, his back arched under Chan’s hands, hips pressing downward in slow, but insistent circles. Chan groaned as his own hips finally lifted to meet the motion of the other man.

“Fuck,” he muttered under his breath. “You’re going to be the death of me.”

“Isn’t it a beautiful death?” Hyunjin breathed back, capturing him in a hot, open-mouthed kiss.

Chan couldn’t disagree. His hands traced along Hyunjin’s sides before settling on his hips, thumbs pressing into the delicate curve of his hip bones. He was mesmerised by the narrowness of his waist, how perfectly it fit within his grasp. His fingers teased beneath the waistband of Hyunjin’s pants, sliding beneath them gently.

“Get me out of these,” Hyunjin murmured, punctuating the demand with a sharp, insistent sway of his hips. Chan’s resolve melted—how could he possibly refuse?

He lifted his hands and rested them over Hyunjin’s, holding them in a tender clasp. He looked deeply into his eyes, and when Hyunjin answered with a questioning gaze, Chan raised their hands above his head and leaned forward, bending him far back until his spine met the fur spread across the mattress. He held his arms above his head, and oh, what a breathtaking view lay beneath him. Hyunjin sighed long and low, stretched out beneath Chan, so beautiful, so yielding.

Chan’s gaze was deep, primal, and Hyunjin answered with wide, expectant eyes. His hands remained above his head as Chan’s hands traced down his arms, over his sides, capturing Hyunjin’s soft moans with his lips, while his thumbs glided over the nipples. Chan had no intention of tormenting him—he only wished to worship him. He kissed his way down the neck and chest, taking one of the nipples into his mouth, sucking and teasing the other between his fingers. Hyunjin whimpered loudly, writhing under his tongue when Chan gave the hardened bud a lick, a pleased murmur escaping his own throat.

When he finished, Chan’s lips continued their journey downward, trailing over his stomach, leaving a path of kisses until he reached the button of his pants. The scent here was stronger, intoxicating, and he inhaled deeply, teasing the skin of Hyunjin’s lower belly with his tongue.

“Chan… please…” Hyunjin whimpered.

Chan gave him one more searching look, and when he met nothing but glazed, pleading eyes, he undid his pants and pulled them down over his hips, his thighs, those impossibly long legs. Once he stripped them away, the only barrier between him and Hyunjin’s perfect, bare form was the underwear straining around his hard cock, damp in the back where slick had soaked through into a darkened patch.

Hyunjin flushed deeply and averted his gaze, embarrassed, yet he didn’t close his legs to hide himself. Instead, he spread them wide in invitation, ashamed only of how desperately he needed the alpha above him. Chan was in no better state, the sight striking directly into the erection already aching against the tightness of his own pants. He shifted slightly to relieve the pressure, barely restraining himself from palming through the fabric for release.

When he made no further move, Hyunjin’s eyes flicked back to him. Chan caught them in another wordless question, and when Hyunjin gave a faint nod, he leaned down and pulled off his underwear, freeing his flushed cock. Chan was not surprised to find that Hyunjin was beautiful and slender in every part of his body. His mouth watered at the sight of the sweet stickiness coating the insides of his thighs.

He ran his tongue over his lips, leaning in low until his nose pressed into the crease of Hyunjin’s thigh, inhaling the sweet scent. He wondered if it tasted as wonderful as it smelled. Carefully, testing, he traced his tongue closer to Hyunjin’s entrance. Hyunjin’s thighs trembled and his hand clamped over his mouth to stifle the loud moan that tore from his chest. Chan discovered with delight that his taste was even better than his scent, and dove deeper with his tongue, dragging a long lick between his thighs.

Hyunjin whimpered with restrained pleasure.

“Chan—” His hands flew to his mouth, pressing it closed to stifle the surge of moans as Chan continued his explorations with his tongue. One of Chan’s hands slid to his length, stroking him slowly with deliberate rhythm. Chan could feel the pleasure he was causing, the evidence in the slickness that pooled on his tongue.

At last, he moved his wet mouth higher, tracing up the length of his cock until he reached the head, circling it with his tongue. Hyunjin whimpered, and Chan opened his eyes to take in the sight of Hyunjin, with his head thrown back, hidden by his hands, biting his lip so hard it looked ready to tear, his entire body shuddering.

Never looking away, Chan leaned down and took him fully into his mouth. Heat enveloped him, Hyunjin’s arousal burning against his tongue. Chan closed his eyes and began moving slowly, up and down, reveling in the taste and scent that overwhelmed his senses, and in the divine sounds each motion drew from him. They were like the sweetest symphony ever to grace his ears—Hyunjin could have been an angel, for his moans were nothing short of heavenly. Chan was so focused that he barely noticed when Hyunjin’s fingers tugged fiercely at his hair.

“Chan—” Hyunjin’s voice broke. “If you keep doing this— I—”

He didn’t finish the sentence; Chan didn’t stop, and words failed him. All he could do was moan, clutching tighter to Chan’s hair until his grip became impossibly strong, his hips surging, pressing him deep. When Chan held him firmly, Hyunjin stilled, and with a sharp, trembling cry, he spilled into Chan’s mouth. Chan swallowed instantly, a low, satisfied hum escaping as he savored the taste. Hyunjin shivered, gasping.

“Damn you, Chan. At least give me a warning next time.”

Chan chuckled, planting a gentle kiss on the tip.

“Feeling a little better?”

Hyunjin nodded, still breathless, his head heavy against the mattress.

“A little. My body still aches. But less.”

Chan shifted closer, aligning himself with Hyunjin’s gaze, and lay down beside him. Hyunjin turned fully, their faces meeting, and pressed a tender kiss to his lips, unconcerned with the taste of himself on Chan’s mouth.

“I needed that so badly.”

Chan hummed, pleased with himself for being able to soothe the omega before him. He wrapped Hyunjin in his arms, pulling him close, covering him with his entire body—a difficult task, given how long Hyunjin was. He grabbed the fur coat and pressed it against his back, enveloping him in a warm cocoon made of his body and clothes.

“What are you doing?” Hyunjin asked, a faintly amused note in his voice.

“Keeping you warm. The way I was meant to.”

Hyunjin giggled and bit his lip.

“Well, I think it’s my turn to warm you up… if you let me take your clothes off.”

Chan chuckled softly under his breath.

“I think I still need them. I’m not the one who’s a heated oven here.”

“So… how will I return the favor?”

When Chan raised an eyebrow, Hyunjin cast a suggestive glance downward, between Chan’s legs.

“Oh… it’s fine. Don’t worry about it.”

“That’s definitely not comfortable.”

“I’m just here to help. Don’t worry about me.”

Hyunjin’s face fell into a sad expression. Chan didn’t understand why.

“Chan…” Hyunjin’s voice sounded genuinely hurt. “Don’t tell me you seriously think I want you here just for my heat…”

Chan swallowed hard, conflicted.

“I… I just want you to feel good…” he began.

“And I want you to feel good too, do you get that?” Hyunjin replied firmly. “I want to give you pleasure. I wouldn’t let anyone else in. I don’t want anyone else. Do you understand?”

Chan’s breath caught in his throat.

“I…”

“I trust you. I want it to be you. I want you.”

Chan was speechless. Hyunjin leaned closer, until their breaths mingled.

“I like you.”

Chan let out a soft gasp.

“I like your face.” Hyunjin leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to Chan’s cheek. “I like your eyes.” Another soft kiss landed at the arch of his brow. “I like your lips,” he murmured, pressing his own lips tenderly against Chan’s. “I like your nose… especially your nose,” he added, kissing the tip, and Chan couldn’t help but laugh softly. “I like your body.” Hyunjin’s hand slid over Chan’s chest, gliding down to his shoulders and slipping under his jacket. “Your muscles…” His hands trailed lower. “Your hips…” Finally, his hand drifted even lower, settling between Chan’s legs, and Chan let out a sharp hiss. “I like this too.”

Chan groaned as Hyunjin’s hand began to knead him through the fabric of his pants. He caught Chan in an open-mouthed kiss, while his other hand slipped upward—fingers dancing along the waistband before deftly undoing a button and slipping his fingers beneath the fabric, taking hold of him.

Chan moaned as Hyunjin’s hand wrapped around him, moving with measured precision, pumping him with a slow, tantalizing rhythm. Hyunjin pressed his lips to Chan’s, silencing his breaths with soft, insistent kisses, while amplifying the movement of his hand. Chan gasped into Hyunjin’s mouth as he worked with determined precision, moving his hand slowly but deliberately, making him feel exquisite pleasure. Chan couldn’t quite process the thought that Hyunjin wanted to do this just for him, but how could he care when the grip of his hand was so perfect? When Hyunjin used his other hand to pull down his pants enough to free his cock, Chan’s hips began moving involuntarily, pressing deeper into the hold of Hyunjin’s fingers.

“Fuck. Hyunjin.”

Hyunjin smiled into the kiss.

“I want you inside me.” He quickened his movements. “I need you. It still hurts…” he whined. “I want your knot.”

Chan choked on his own breath.

“That much?”

“Mhmmm…” he murmured, and to emphasize his words, he started pumping faster. After one particularly close stroke, Chan cursed under his breath and grabbed his wrist.

“You need to stop if you don’t want me to pop the knot straight into your hand.”

“Oh no, I definitely need it somewhere else.”

Chan growled and with great effort pulled his hips back. Hyunjin slowed his movements, and he freed himself from his perfect hand. He shifted them slightly, so that Hyunjin was once again lying on his back while he loomed over him, caging him from above. He looked deep into his eyes, and Hyunjin did not break the gaze as Chan’s hand traveled down again, back between his thighs.

Hyunjin whimpered and bit his lip as Chan’s middle finger pressed against his slick entrance, but he still did not avert his eyes. He was so wet as Chan slid his finger inside. A torrent of whimpers escaped Hyunjin’s lips as he pushed deeper, massaging him from within. His eyes finally shut as Chan added a second finger, sliding in and out of him, his fingers slick with moisture.

His whole body trembled with pleasure as Chan stretched him, though it wasn’t entirely necessary given how easily he moved. Still, he allowed himself this indulgence, simply to relish the sight of the hybrid melting under his touch, writhing beneath him, clutching the fur coat with desperate fingers and burying his face in it to hide his cheeks flushed with shame and delight. Soft sighs escaped his lips, turning into warm clouds of breath.

Chan curled his fingers slightly and finally found the spot that made Hyunjin moan loudly. He massaged it for a while, drawing cries of ecstasy from him, watching with reverence as he tilted his head back, brows arching in pure bliss. It felt wonderful to have him like that—so warm, so soft, so pliant. It seemed he was already very close, just from Chan’s touch.

“Get inside me,” he breathed.

“Are you sure? You look pretty comfortable already,” Chan chuckled, earning a playful smack on the arm.

“Fingers aren’t enough. I want it to feel good for you too—we’ve been through this already.”

“All right, all right,” Chan soothed him, settling closer between his legs. He withdrew his fingers to lower his pants slightly, and Hyunjin whined at the sudden emptiness, pulling him in by the waist and trapping him with his thighs on both sides.

“Patience, darling,” Chan murmured.

Hyunjin huffed at that, so Chan silenced him with a kiss and lined himself up with Hyunjin’s entrance. He broke the kiss just long enough to meet his eyes once more, searching for confirmation, and when all he found there was lustful adoration, he entered him. He pushed in slowly, watching intently as Hyunjin’s lips parted in a soft gasp. He felt exquisite wrapped around him—tight, warm, and wet, drawing him in deeper, clenching around him with every inch.

They both moaned as Chan buried himself fully inside. The pressure, the warmth, the body and scent surrounding him—it was almost too delightful, and he needed a moment to adjust to being enveloped completely. He wished he could stay like this forever, but then he felt Hyunjin squirming beneath him, urging him to move.

Chan pulled back slightly and slid in again, over and over, until Hyunjin’s body shuddered, tightening desperately around him with a cry, spilling between them and soaking the front of his shirt, which Hyunjin clutched in an iron grip. Chan blinked slowly, taking in the sight of Hyunjin’s face twisted in pleasure, biting his lower lip. When Chan stilled, Hyunjin opened his eyes.

“Why are you stopping?”

Chan stammered. “Well, but—”

“Keep going.”

“But you just—”

“I said, keep going.” Hyunjin whined, squeezing him tightly between his thighs. When Chan didn’t move, he rolled his eyes.

Chan didn’t quite register what was happening—he certainly wasn’t prepared for the sheer strength of the omega at that moment, but before he could react, Hyunjin placed a hand on his shoulder and, using a thrust of his hips, pushed him, flipping their positions so that Chan ended up on his back and Hyunjin straddled him. He sat with his hands planted firmly on Chan’s shoulders, eyes glinting with untamed desire.

“I said, keep going.” he growled again, baring his teeth slightly. His cock remained hard between his thighs, even after climaxing—the refractory period of an omega in heat was no joke.

“How do you do this…”

Hyunjin didn’t answer—he only lifted himself slightly before sinking back down, sheathing Chan inside him once more. Chan sucked in a sharp breath, his head falling back as Hyunjin began to move over him, rolling his hips in demanding, torturous circles that massaged his cock. He was so tight, so warm, that Chan felt dizzy with the sensation. His hands found Hyunjin’s hips instinctively, guiding and pulling him down harder, deeper. When Chan lifted his own hips to angle himself better, Hyunjin cried out, throwing his head back as he pushed down with more desperate urgency, until he was nothing more than a writhing mess of ecstasy above him.

Chan couldn’t shake the feeling that only a day before, they had been in this very position under vastly different circumstances.

Hyunjin’s hands did not remain idle; they roamed over Chan’s body, searching. He leaned down, kissing him ravenously, sliding his fingers beneath the hem of his shirt and tugging it upward, baring the hard lines of his abdomen. His lips parted as he bent to Chan’s neck, tasting his intoxicating scent with a heated kiss while his hands clawed and kneaded at the firm planes of his torso.

“Take it off.”

Chan finally complied, pushing himself upright. Slowly, he shrugged off his jacket, then pulled the shirt over his head, exposing his bare chest to the cold air. At the sight of his muscles tensing and hardening under the chill, Hyunjin’s expression turned predatory. He wrapped his arms around Chan’s shoulders, pressing their chests together, his fevered skin scorching against Chan’s. Chan gripped his back, dragging his nails down in a sharp rake that made Hyunjin shudder before diving hungrily back into the hollow of his neck.

His hips moved with growing need as he buried his face against Chan’s neck, inhaling his scent. He pressed himself closer, moaning desperately as his tongue dragged across the tender curve where the smell was strongest.

“Please…” he whimpered, teeth grazing the skin. “Please…” His lips closed over the crook of Chan’s neck, sucking it between his teeth, mewling with a fragile, breaking voice.

“What do you want, baby?” Chan breathed, his voice rough. “Tell me.”

Instead of answering, Hyunjin pulled back from his neck and tilted his head to the side, baring his skin, making his desire wordlessly clear. Chan growled low in his chest, pressing his mouth to the offered throat, drinking in that intoxicating scent that sent his head spinning. His hips jolted forward, tearing a louder cry from Hyunjin.

“I want this,” Hyunjin moaned.

Chan wanted it too. God, he wanted it so badly. A possessive snarl escaped him as his teeth grazed over that sweet, vulnerable spot. But he couldn’t—he forced himself to hold back. He pulled away just enough to look into the other hybrid’s eyes.

“Are you sure?”

“For fuck’s sake, Chan, will you stop being so considerate and just take me already?!” Hyunjin nearly shouted the words in his face.

Chan’s eyes darkened with a predatory gleam.

Fine.

He growled possessively, unleashing all of his alpha force, and flipped them, slamming Hyunjin onto his back. The impact punched the breath from Hyunjin’s chest, a startled gasp torn from his lips as Chan loomed over him, teeth snapping dangerously close to his face. The display seemed to satisfy Hyunjin, because he let out a laugh filled with surprised delight.

From below, he gazed up at the wolf caging him between his arms with unmasked wonder. Chan wasted no time—he pulled his hips back and drove into him again, to the hilt. Hyunjin arched beneath him, moaning as Chan repeated it—again, and again. His hips quickly built into a rhythm, each thrust wringing another cry from the omega. Finally, he let himself go, surrendering to the bliss of the tight, hot body clutching around him. He listened greedily to the loud, raw moans he was pulling from Hyunjin—sounds more beautiful than anything he’d ever imagined—but he didn’t regret silencing them when his mouth claimed them in a kiss.

Hyunjin purred into it, dragging his nails down Chan’s back, clawing upward until his hands fisted in his hair and yanked hard, tearing a growl straight from Chan’s throat. Chan’s hand slid down, gripping his side, then lower—his fingers digging mercilessly into his hip as he slammed back into the welcoming heat. His pace quickened, and Hyunjin broke the kiss to release a trembling moan into the space between them. His cries turned into plaintive wails, head thrown back, throat exposed in offering.

Chan cupped his face, thumb brushing across his soft lips. Softer than anything he’d ever touched. He kissed them, biting into the plush skin until it broke, then licked away the bead of blood. His hand slid to Hyunjin’s throat, his mouth following, leaving a trail of kisses down the column of his neck, scraping teeth along the delicate skin. He was so tempted to sink them into the flesh beneath. So he did, savoring every inch, drunk on the flavor and the sounds Hyunjin made as he melted beneath him into a writhing, begging mess.

Nothing else mattered. Only Hyunjin—wrapped in his arms, clinging tightly as though trying to fuse them together. Chan couldn’t think, couldn’t breathe; the world blurred around him. All he heard were those perfect moans, all he felt was the dizzying pleasure rippling through him as he thrust deeper, harder, faster.

“Chan…” Hyunjin whimpered. “Please…”

Chan lifted his head to see him arch again, throat bared in offering.

“Please…”

Chan knew. This was the moment. He licked over the tender skin in preparation—and finally sank his teeth into the crook of Hyunjin’s neck. Hyunjin cried out, louder than ever, as Chan bit deeper, marveling at the sweet rush of his blood. He felt complete.

Hyunjin was practically sobbing beneath him, trembling violently all over, and Chan knew he’d never want to leave him unsatisfied. He’d do anything for the man beneath him. For his omega. For his mate.

“Chan, please…” Hyunjin whined, voice wrecked. “Come with me.”

He couldn’t hold back anymore. With one final thrust, Chan stilled, his entire body shuddering as release tore through him, spilling deep inside Hyunjin. At the same moment, Hyunjin cried out, breaking apart with him, his come splattering hot between their bodies as his hands clamped down on Chan’s sides in a crushing grip.

Neither of them moved. They clung together, bound tight in an unbreakable hold, Hyunjin panting raggedly as the knot swelled inside him, sealing them into one.

At last, Chan lifted his head to look at Hyunjin. His eyes were wet with tears, and Chan bent down to kiss them away, the tenderness of his lips a sharp contrast to the fierce intensity that had passed between them moments before. He never wanted Hyunjin to cry. Never wanted him to suffer. Never wanted him to lack anything, ever again.

His grip softened, melting into a gentle embrace as he shifted them onto their sides. Reaching behind Hyunjin, Chan pulled the fur coat closer and draped it over his bare body.

Hyunjin blinked up at him through half-lidded eyes, silent, questioning. Chan brought his face close, brushing their noses together.

“I’m just keeping you warm,” he murmured. “The way I was meant to.”

Hyunjin didn’t answer with words. Instead, he slipped an arm around Chan’s back and tugged the other fur over him as well, cocooning them both. He pressed himself closer, whispering,

“Then let me keep you warm too.”

Chan didn’t reply. His heart was too tight, overwhelmed by the flood of feelings rushing through him. So he simply held him, and together they lay in silence, wrapped in each other’s warmth.

A deep, tranquil bliss washed over him. His hand moved idly over Hyunjin’s back as he listened to the quiet rhythm of his mate’s breathing—steady now, no longer ragged, softening with every exhale. He listened until it evened out completely, until exhaustion finally drew Hyunjin into sleep.

Only then did Chan close his eyes, and let himself follow.

***

The next hours were a blur.

Hyunjin slipped in and out of dreamless sleep. His body was exhausted, yet each time a need stirred him awake, Chan was always there to help him.

Sometimes it was slow, unhurried, as they savored one another, breathing each other in. Other times it was rough and fast, desperation driving them to find release as quickly as possible. Yet never once did Chan leave him unsatisfied—until Hyunjin drifted back to sleep, sated and lulled by the fullness of his knot.

After a while, he began to feel a little better. At some point, the heat became less unbearable, and they even slipped back into their clothes to avoid freezing while sleeping—their old jackets abandoned in favor of much warmer, softer furs. Hyunjin felt content in his mate’s arms.

He had lost track of time. Outside, it was still dark, with the moonlight streaming through the window as the only source of illumination. But whether only a few hours had passed, or a whole day had slipped by and it was now another night, Hyunjin didn’t know—his mind floated in a pleasant, drowsy haze. He trusted Chan to watch over him if anything happened, and allowed himself to drift away.

It was a sudden pressure of Chan’s fingers on his shoulder that pulled him from that state.

“Hyunjin. Wake up.” Chan hissed behind him, shaking him firmly.

Hyunjin opened his eyes, blinking sleepily, and turned toward the man lying behind him.

“Are we in trouble?” he mumbled.

Chan nodded, pointing toward the wall where the light fell. Its source moved, clearly not coming from the moon. In the distance, Hyunjin heard the unmistakable growl of an engine.

They were back.

They had found them.

Hyunjin sprang to his feet, legs weak but steady. Chan was immediately at his side, alert and ready, keeping him upright.

“Don’t tell me to stay,” Hyunjin said, his gaze unwavering. “I’m done hiding, waiting for you.”

Chan shook his head.

“They must have seen us and returned with reinforcements. If they know we’re here, they’ll comb the area until they find us. We have to run before they catch us.”

Hyunjin nodded, and together they moved swiftly and silently down the stairs, slipping out of the building. They ran through the shadows, glancing behind them as the car growled menacingly closer. They weaved between buildings, their legs propelling them north, back toward their original destination.

When the headlights swept across their figures, they broke into a sprint. They ran as fast as they could, only to find themselves at a dead-end alley. They quickly backed off, but valuable time was lost—the car had also accelerated, now circling them, cutting off their escape in the direction they had tried to run.

Chan grabbed Hyunjin’s arm, pulling him in the opposite direction, but he resisted, stopping the other man.

“Chan, it’s no use—they’re already here.”

Chan turned to him. Hyunjin panted heavily, but his gaze was steady, wild, and devoid of weakness.

“I can do this. I don’t want to run,” he breathed, looking deep into Chan’s eyes. “We’ll do it together. Like we said.”

Chan studied him for a moment, then something inside him seemed to break, and he swept Hyunjin into a tight embrace. Hyunjin didn’t waste a second and pressed his mouth to his, sealing them together, shielding them from the lurking danger, infusing each other with courage—until a loud growl of the engine pulled them apart.

They froze, blinded by the truck’s headlights. It was over—there was no chance of escape. The only way forward was through the vehicle and whoever awaited them in it.

They turned slowly, facing the vehicle like predators ready to strike. The engine growled again, and Chan mirrored it—quieter, but more menacing. Hyunjin felt Chan’s hand take his. He looked at him, fearing he might see the same worry in his eyes. That Chan would make him run and tell him to leave him behind.

But he found none of it. Only reassurance. He was there. He wasn’t going anywhere. They were together.

Hyunjin responded with the same certainty in his gaze. He squeezed Chan’s hand tighter. With Chan beside him, he felt stronger. He had a reason to fight. He had his mate. His family. His home.

Their eyes returned to the truck, ready to fight.

They were together. And together, they were unstoppable.

Hand in hand, they charged forward. Straight into the danger.