Chapter Text
Stiles Stilinski, a born omega, had endured over a decade of participating in the annual mating run, a tradition where Alphas sought their ideal mates among the omegas. These individuals shared some traits with werewolves, possessing heightened senses, a strong protective instinct for their pack, and a slower healing ability compared to full-fledged werewolves; making them a special gift for their Alphas.
There were various claiming methods—whether through a bite (which terrified Stiles), a touch, or a gift something that represented the Alpha —only intensified the anxiety that had built up over the years. Once the claiming ceremony unfolded, the omega left his home, now residing with his alpha and the rest of the pack. The sense of safety, belonging to someone, to a pack, to a family, is what Stiles had missed most. The omega within him craved that connection, yearning for the warmth of a pack and the security of belonging.
At the age of 28, Stiles felt far from being an asset or fortunate. Year after year, he watched as others found their mates, while he remained unclaimed. The tradition was a source of constant pain, exacerbated by his father Noah Stilinski's cruelty. Noah's drunken episodes, filled with harsh words and physical abuse, served as a relentless reminder of Stiles' perceived worthlessness.
The omega longed to bring an end to this cycle of disappointment and mistreatment. The prospect of being claimed by an Alpha, especially as a rare male omega, grew increasingly elusive with each passing year. The young omega, hopelessly romantic, yearned for a fairy tale love, but as time went by, every passing year seemed to dim the flickering flame of that dream.
As Stiles ventured into the forest during another mating run, he unexpectedly crossed paths with Liam, a sweet and charming omega participating for the first time. Liam's endearing nature, coupled with his evident anxiety, triggered a protective instinct in Stiles. Without hesitation, the older omega found himself offering reassurance, promising to stand by Liam's side throughout the entire experience.
As the two unclaimed omegas delved deeper into the forest, the setting sun casting long shadows, Stiles couldn't shake the persistent fear of yet another impending disappointment. Years of unclaimed runs had instilled a sense of resignation in him. However, he remained steadfast in his support for Liam, hoping the young omega's first run would be a more positive experience.
Their optimism took an abrupt turn when a pack of Alphas emerged from the shadows, interrupting the peaceful walk and bringing an unexpected threat. The tranquillity of the forest was shattered by the menacing presence of the Alphas, casting a dark cloud over what was supposed to be a hopeful and transformative moment for Stiles and Liam.
Stiles' instincts screamed with urgency as he overheard the ominous conversation between the older, menacing Alpha males, Ethan and Coby. Dread filled him as they callously discussed their vile intentions, revealing a dark plan to commit unspeakable acts against unclaimed omegas like Stiles and Liam. The revelation of their sadistic motives sent shivers down Stiles' spine, and he knew he couldn't let them carry out their horrifying plans.
With a fierce determination to protect Liam at all costs, Stiles swiftly made a decision. He instructed the younger omega to run, his voice firm with a mixture of fear and resolve. Stiles would stay behind, facing the looming threat of Ethan and Coby head-on, intending to be a distraction that allowed the blond omega to escape unharmed.
As Liam hesitated, fear evident in his eyes, Stiles insisted, "Go, Liam! Run and don't look back." The older man understood the gravity of the sacrifice he was making, fully aware that he might never get a chance at the life and love he yearned for. Despite the cruelty of the world they lived in, Stiles was prepared to endure whatever it took to ensure Liam's safety, even if it meant putting himself in harm's way.
With a heavy heart and a fierce determination, Stiles braced himself to confront the Alphas, hoping that by diverting their attention, he could provide Liam with a chance to escape the impending brutality and find a life free from the shadows of such cruelty.
Stiles, steeling himself for the anticipated assault, retorted with a sharp tongue, "You two idiots must have mistaken this for some sick fantasy. Newsflash: it's not happening!!!" He closed his eyes, bracing for the strike that never came. When he dared to open his eyes again, he was met not with a fist but with the sight of an unexpected saviour.
Relief washed over him as he took a shaky breath. Stiles curled into a protective ball, hugging himself tightly. As he surveyed the scene, his eyes landed on the most handsome and powerful man he had ever seen. This Alpha, with a maturity that suggested he was in his forties, exuded strength and warmth. His hazel, forest-green, kaleidoscopic eyes, once red with intensity, softened as he gazed upon Stiles with a pained expression.
"Are you okay?" the Alpha's voice was growly yet protective, a comforting contrast to the menacing tones of the previous Alphas.
Stiles nodded, his eyes welling up with tears as the adrenaline and fear began to dissipate. The older werewolf reassured him, "You're safe." Those two words were like a soothing balm to Stiles' wounded soul.
As the Alpha, introducing himself as Derek, stepped closer, Stiles couldn't help the whine that escaped him. It was a sound of both vulnerability and a subconscious acknowledgment of Derek as his protector and mate. The werewolf's presence felt like a lifeline, a beacon of safety in the chaos that had unfolded.
"I had to protect Liam... I can take a beating," Stiles spoke, a hint of casualness masking the weight of his sacrifice. The regret for the words slipped out, but before Stiles could dwell on it, Derek closed the distance and enveloped the trembling omega in a tight hug. A soft kiss on Stiles' forehead sealed their connection, claiming him in that moment; transcending the violence and darkness that had loomed.
"No one is going to hurt you ever again," Derek vowed with sincerity, and Stiles, seeking comfort, closed his eyes as the Alpha held him close to his chest. Unconsciousness took over, but in that moment, Stiles felt the promise of safety and a love that would endure.
Derek carefully lifted the omega in his arms, cradling his mate protectively, and led them out of the forest. The journey marked the beginning of their shared life, a destiny sealed with a kiss and a promise of everlasting protection.
Chapter Text
The ride to Derek’s territory was silent and uneventful. After they exited the forest, the Alpha never released Stiles from his arms. Stiles noticed Liam entering a black jeep, accompanied by a sweet girl who he guessed was still an alpha. Although he thought it was the last time he would see Liam, inside the black jeep that seemed to belong to his werewolf Alpha, he realized both cars were heading in the same direction. Unable to contain his curiosity, Stiles finally spoke up.
“Is Liam okay?” the omega's soft voice broke the silence.
The Alpha smiled toward his mate and, with a soothing voice, reassured the omega inside the younger man. “He's with my cousin Hayden. She found him after he ran, and they just clicked. They both came back to help you, but I was already there…” Derek's grip on the steering wheel tightened as he spoke the last part.
“I never thanked you... for saving me,” Stiles admitted, biting his lip and avoiding his mate's eyes.
“You never have to thank me, Stiles. I'm just glad I found you in time. If I was a minute late, those low-lives would…” Derek began to growl, and Stiles circled his hand on the Alpha's, intertwining their fingers and squeezing them reassuringly.
“It's okay. We're okay,” Stiles promised, giving a small smile to the Alpha, who took a deep breath and nodded.
Trying to shift the conversation away from the traumatic events, Derek spoke about his territory. “This is my territory. We're a small pack of alphas. There's no pack house. Each one of us likes his own space, and we meet in the council centre near the trees in the north.” Stiles' gaze drifted outside the window.
“Our cabin, is now yours too, is in the south part,” the werewolf continued. Stiles saw the lights of the jeep that Liam was in stopping, and Liam came out of it, still holding hands with the dark-haired girl. Liam was safe. He had a mate. So did Stiles. Everything was going to be alright. As they continued driving a little further south, the jeep stopped near a cabin similar to the others, nestled near the thick and gigantic trees of the forest that surrounded the whole field where the pack's cabins were situated.
“This is us,” Derek explained once again, holding Stiles in his arms and guiding them both to the door. Stiles couldn't shake the feeling that he might be dreaming. Maybe he said it out loud because Derek answered, confirming that it was not a dream, his expression showing the pain he had witnessed etched on his beautiful face.
Once inside the cabin, Stiles couldn't help but absorb every detail of the big yet cozy living room. A warm fireplace, its flames dancing to a comforting rhythm, served as the focal point, accompanied by a generously sized TV mounted above it. The large windows offered picturesque views of the forest, and Stiles eagerly anticipated the sight of snow-covered treetops and the prospect of spending Christmas enveloped in the soft glow of lights.
The living space seamlessly flowed into a small dining area, and beyond that, a modern kitchen adorned with soft, hidden lights and deep green shelves. The entire house seemed to be constructed with a palette of rich browns and calming forest greens, creating an atmosphere that cocooned Stiles in an unbelievable sense of comfort.
Derek, sensing Stiles' wonder, gave him a small tour, pointing out the thoughtful details that made the cabin feel like a haven. Plush throw blankets draped over the couches, inviting cushions scattered strategically, and the subtle scent of pine infused the air, amplifying the cozy ambiance. The decorations reflected a rustic charm, with hints of nature accentuating the welcoming atmosphere.
As they ascended the stairs, Stiles guessed they would lead to the bedrooms. The anticipation of discovering the sleeping quarters filled with the same warmth and coziness heightened his excitement. Derek, leading the way, seemed to understand Stiles' unspoken longing for a space that felt like home.
On the upper level, there were two bedrooms, each equally cozy and thoughtfully decorated. The rooms were connected by a joined door, providing a sense of intimacy and convenience. En-suite bathrooms accompanied each bedroom, offering a touch of luxury and privacy.
Derek led Stiles into one of the bedrooms, the decor reflecting a harmonious blend of warmth and personal touches. The bed, though less furnished, exuded a personal charm that made it equally inviting. Derek placed Stiles gently on the bed, instructing him to take a soothing shower before joining him downstairs for a meal. He assured Stiles that clean clothes would be waiting for him in his room once he finished.
As Stiles contemplated the room and the impending sense of security it offered, the realization dawned on him; his room. The thought that Derek would sleep somewhere else both calmed and terrified him simultaneously. Despite the uncertainty of what it meant, Stiles was too emotionally drained to question it. The overwhelming feeling of safety after leaving his father's house became his focal point. He decided to go with the tide, embracing the unknown with the hope that it would lead to a better, more secure future.
The omega went about his routine, taking a long and refreshing shower, the warm water washing away the remnants of the day's trials. When he emerged, he found clean clothes waiting for him in what he now considered his room. The act of leaving a set of clothes for him spoke volumes about Derek's thoughtfulness and care.
As the younger man made his way downstairs, the enticing aroma of a home-cooked meal wafted through the air. The table was set, and Derek welcomed him with a genuine smile, the dining area bathed in the soft glow of ambient lighting. The silent understanding between them, despite the unanswered questions, brought a sense of peace to Stiles. For the first time in a long while, he felt truly safe, and he savoured the simple joy of a warm meal in the company of someone who seemed determined to provide the comfort and security he had been yearning for.
After they ate in a comforting silence, The Alpha gently took Stiles in his arms, his gaze softening as he noticed the black and blue marks that adorned the omega's skin. With a softness in his voice, Derek asked, "What did you mean you could take a beating? Did it happen a lot?" The werewolf’s concern pressed on Stiles, who instinctively looked away.
The omega finally found the courage to share his painful truth. "My dad... he drunk and said and done things he didn’t mean. I guess he thought he was stuck with me, and... An unmated omega is pretty much useless. He can't leave the house or go to work. After I finished college, I was pretty much closed inside." Stiles didn't notice the tears streaming down his cheeks, but Derek did. The alpha responded not with words but with tender kisses, cooing reassurances and caressing Stiles with both his hands and lips.
The Alpha, with a gentle touch, conveyed that his mate was safe now, that no harm would ever be done to him again. The atmosphere shifted from the heaviness of past pain to the lightness of a promise for a better future. In Derek's embrace, the omega felt warmth that transcended the physical, a romantic reassurance that he was not just safe but cherished, that he had found a haven in the arms of an alpha who understood the depth of his scars and was determined to heal them with love.
The Alpha quietly left the room, his mind already formulating plans to safeguard Stiles and ensure his on-going safety. Determination etched across his face, he moved through the cabin with purpose, weaving a protective web around the omega who had found solace in his care. As the door closed behind him, the werewolf set out on a mission to shield Stiles from the shadows of his past, crafting a future where the omega could thrive, free from the lingering fears that had haunted him for far too long.
After that pivotal day, Stiles seamlessly integrated into Derek's pack. His vibrant personality and eagerness to contribute made him a cherished member, and he developed special and unique bonds with every pack member. The mutual love and respect that flourished between Stiles and the pack were palpable, creating an environment where he felt not just accepted but genuinely valued.
The omega discovered a multitude of interests within the pack, participating in activities with enthusiasm and dedication. Whether it was tending to the garden, exploring his artistic side through painting, showcasing culinary skills in the kitchen, delving into books, or joining the werewolves in training sessions, Stiles embraced each opportunity to connect with his newfound pack family. His versatility and eagerness to learn made Derek and his wolf swell with pride.
The older werewolf, wanting to express his affection and appreciation for Stiles, showered him with thoughtful gifts. From a carefully selected wardrobe to a new laptop and phone, and even supplies for Stiles' beloved painting endeavours, Derek paid attention to every detail. He bought extra pillows and decorations that Stiles had casually mentioned during conversations with other pack members, causing Stiles to blush and playfully beg the Alpha to stop.
However, Derek's attentiveness persisted. He continued to be an attentive alpha, making sure that Stiles felt not only loved but also understood. The Alpha took joy in creating a home filled with Stiles' favourite things, ensuring that each detail reflected the happiness his mate deserved. The cabin transformed into a haven of shared interests and mutual respect, a place where Stiles not only found love but also the freedom to be himself, surrounded by a pack that cherished him for exactly that.
While Derek was meticulously creating a haven for Stiles, there remained a noticeable distance between them. Despite the shared warmth and affection, they continued to sleep in separate beds. Derek, though consistently tender with forehead kisses, hand caresses, and gentle touches, never moved beyond those gestures. The uncharted territory of intimacy left Stiles feeling a mix of frustration and longing. Yet, he hesitated to voice his concerns, recognizing the overall improvement in his life and not wanting to jeopardize the delicate balance.
The omega acknowledged his fortune in the positive changes around him, but a lingering desire for perfection weighed on his heart. Could he truly have it all? Deep down, he grappled with insecurities and a fear that Derek might not desire him in every way the little omega yearned for. Despite his internal struggles, Stiles refrained from expressing these concerns openly, fearing it might disrupt the newfound harmony.
Peter Hale, Derek's astute uncle, keenly perceived the subtle tension lingering between Derek and Stiles. He took note of the unexplored depths of Stiles' emotions, recognizing the uncharted territory within their relationship. Stiles, in response, purposefully navigated around discussions involving his feelings about intimacy, sidestepping any mention of how his alpha had never initiated anything of a more intimate nature.
Peter, recognizing Stiles' gentle nature and the fragile position he found himself in, decided it was time to have a candid conversation with his nephew. He observed that despite the thoughtful presents, Stiles desired attention and intimacy, which Derek seemed hesitant to provide. Peter felt a sense of responsibility to address the situation and encourage his nephew to fully embrace his role as Stiles' mate.
The confrontation between Peter and Derek was intense, with the older Hale arguing, "Stiles deserves a mate, Derek, and you're doing a horrible job at it. Despite the gifts, all he wants is your attention and intimacy. It's time for you to step up and claim your mate the way you both want."
The Alpha’s, defensive and reluctant, retorted, "I can't just rush into things. Stiles deserves more than impulsive decisions."
Peter scoffed, "Material possessions aren't what he needs, Derek. Look at him. He lights up every time you enter the room. He waits for you every night till you come home so he can sleep… He's waiting for you to claim him completely. And that casserole you love so much? It's Stiles' creation, not mine. He made it for you and after a pleading look he gave me, I said it was my recipe. All he wants to please you. Can't you see that?"
The confrontation escalated into a heated argument between Derek and Peter. Peter continued, "Stiles is perfect for you. Your past shouldn't determine his future. You're scared, dear nephew, but he needs a strong alpha who wants and needs him in return. Your indecision is only adding to Stiles' fragile emotional state, and don't forget the abuse he endured from his father. It's time you put an end to it."
Guilt seeped into the Alpha as Peter emphasized how much time had passed without a proper claim. "Its been ten years, Derek. Stiles has been waiting for you for ten freaking years. He endured the agony of the mating run again and again just to be with you. And every year, you came back empty-handed, afraid to claim what was always destined to be yours," Peter declared, his words carrying the weight of accumulated frustration and disappointment. “Don't let your own fears dictate his happiness any longer. Claim him before it's too late."
The confrontation ended with a charged atmosphere, leaving Derek to grapple with Peter's words and the realization that he needed to confront his own fears and insecurities for the sake of the mate he had unknowingly kept waiting for far too long.
In the other room, Stiles overheard the conversation, and each word felt like a hammer striking his heart. Derek had been there for 10 years, and in all that time, he had never claimed him. The realization hit the omega like a tidal wave of pain and confusion.
Why?
Did Derek not want him?
Did he not want a mate?
Was he repulsed by the idea of a mate, especially one like Stiles?
As these thoughts spiralled through Stiles' mind, the fragile hope he had harboured shattered, leaving behind a deep ache. The pain of feeling unwanted and unclaimed, despite the time they had spent together, cut through him, intensifying the vulnerability he had thought he left behind. Stiles, hidden in the shadows, grappled with a torrent of emotions, wondering if the love he had yearned for was nothing more than a fleeting illusion.
Lost in the searing pain of what he had overheard, emotions raging like a storm within him, Stiles didn't hesitate. Driven by a desperate need to escape the suffocating weight of heartbreak, he did the only thing he felt he could
– he ran.
Chapter Text
Stiles had never been one to run away from his problems; he was an omega who fought his battles to the end. However, the revelation that Derek hadn't claimed him in all the years of the mating run shook him to his core. In the aftermath of this revelation, the omega found himself in the grips of a profound shock. The weight of self-blame settled heavily on his shoulders — a belief that he wasn't good enough, echoing the sentiments his father had cruelly instilled in him. It also fuelled a darker thought: that Derek, perhaps, didn't want a mate at all, especially not a mate as seemingly weak as him.
Frozen by the staggering news, Stiles became oblivious to the plummeting temperature and the relentless rainstorm that battered his face. All he wanted to do was run, to escape the crushing ache in his heart that threatened to consume him. The pain of what felt like an outright rejection from the alpha paralyzed him, rendering him oblivious to the physical discomfort around him as the storm mirrored the tempest within his shattered soul.
The rain-soaked earth beneath his feet seemed to absorb the echoes of his hurt and confusion as he disappeared into the shadows of the dense forest, leaving behind a world that had once promised safety and love but now felt cold and indifferent. In that moment, Stiles had no intention of ever coming back.
Derek's unease deepened as midnight approached, and there was no sign of Stiles. Panic set in when Derek's attempts to reach him went unanswered. Frantically, he called everyone, including Liam, who revealed that Stiles had left their practice earlier to take a shower and cook dinner.
Dread gripped Derek as his thoughts spiralled. Could Stiles have overheard the conversation with his uncle Peter? The mere possibility fuelled Derek's anxiety, and he felt a surge of guilt for not realizing the impact their discussion might have had on Stiles.
In a moment of urgency, Derek's instincts took over. He rushed outside into the rain, the forest transforming him into a full wolf, his senses heightened with the familiar connection shared within his pack, a legacy passed down to him from his parents. Determined to find Stiles, he navigated through the rain-soaked terrain, following the scent he knew so well.
His wolf form allowed him to move swiftly, guided by an unyielding determination to locate his mate. Derek understood the gravity of the situation and the need to protect and love Stiles for the rest of their lives. Peter's words resonated in his mind, and he was done failing his little mate. With each step, the alpha wolf raced against time, driven by an unwavering commitment to find Stiles and bring him back into the safety of their shared home.
After hours of searching, a sense of dread settling over him as the temperature continued to drop, Derek's desperation grew. Just when he was starting to lose hope, a soft whimper reached his ears. Following the sound, he discovered a heartbreaking sight that shattered him in ways he never could have imagined.
There, under the immense roots of a gigantic tree, Stiles was curled into a small ball, shivering from the cold and rain, tears mingling with the raindrops on his face. Despite the enormous black wolf standing before him, Stiles seemed unafraid, lost in his own anguish.
Unable to bear the sight, Derek transformed back into a human, the rain-soaked clothing clinging to his skin. Without hesitation, he scooped Stiles into his arms. The omega whimpered and curled instinctively toward Derek's chest, seeking warmth and comfort.
As Derek carried Stiles towards their cabin, he was met by the sight of his uncle waiting on the porch. Peter, seeing his nephew with Stiles in his arms, exhaled a relieved breath. Without uttering a word, he nodded in understanding, signalling that he would inform the others that Derek had found him. The weight of worry began to lift as Derek moved toward the safety and warmth of their home, determined to provide the comfort and love that Stiles so desperately needed in that vulnerable moment.
Derek wasted no time in tending to Stiles' well-being. In his bathroom, he prepared a hot bath without once releasing Stiles from his arms. Once the bath was ready, Derek, with careful and efficient precision, used his claws to gently rip away Stiles' wet clothes. He then joined Stiles in the warm water, the omega still trembling and holding Derek tightly as he washed him gently, whispering soft words of reassurance.
As the water began to cool, Derek dried them both before guiding Stiles back to his room. There, he dressed Stiles in the softest and warmest clothes he owned, laying him gently in bed and covering him with extra blankets. Derek stoked the fire in the fireplace, ensuring a comforting warmth filled the room, and joined Stiles under the fortress of blankets without a second thought.
Stiles sought Derek's touch and embrace once more, and Derek gratefully provided it. Throughout the night, he whispered apologies and words of comfort until the omega, wrapped in the safety of Derek's arms, succumbed to a deep and restful sleep. In that peaceful slumber, the weight of the night's events began to lift, replaced by the solace of warmth, safety, and the unwavering presence of an alpha who was determined to protect and cherish his mate.
The next morning, Stiles found himself in Derek's bed, his body heavy with an unfamiliar lethargy. The events of the previous night were hazy, and the gaps in his memory only added to the weight of shame, guilt, and pain. As the urge to escape and isolate himself grew, Derek entered the room carrying a tray laden with everything Stiles enjoyed for breakfast.
"Stay in bed," Derek's command echoed through the room, and the omega inside Stiles willingly obeyed. In silence, Derek fed Stiles, the atmosphere heavy with unspoken emotions. When Stiles finished eating, Derek uttered words that shocked him to the core.
"Forgive me," Derek said, his gaze fixed on Stiles, waiting patiently for a response. The unexpected plea for forgiveness caught Stiles off guard. He had braced himself for anger, perhaps punishment, but not this.
The young omega couldn't comprehend Derek's words. He had anticipated rejection, a confirmation that Derek didn't want him. Stiles, his voice carrying the weight of the pain in his heart, replied, "I have nothing to forgive. If you don't want me, that's okay."
The room seemed to hold its breath as the words lingered in the air, revealing the depths of Stiles' vulnerability and the ache of his wounded soul.
Derek took a deep breath, his gaze heavy with sadness as he shook his head. Placing a hand on Stiles' cheek, he drew the omega closer, whispering a confession that shifted the dynamics of their connection.
"It's not that, Stiles. I want you. I've wanted you ever since I first saw you in that forest," Derek confessed, his memories vivid. "You were wearing a deep green shirt, explaining to another omega girl that it was your favourite colour, and you hoped your Alpha liked it. That's why I painted the house this colour." The omega's eyes filled with unshread tears but let the werewolf continue.
Closing his eyes, Derek tenderly placed a soft kiss on Stiles' neck, the gesture melting away the tension. Pulling Stiles closer into his arms, Derek continued, "My uncle is right. I was a coward, and I waited years to claim you. I thought you would be better off without me. But then, after the incident with the Alphas, I saw the bruises, and I couldn't let you go. Not again. At least I could offer you solace—a safe home, a pack, a family—even if you didn't want me."
His voice cracked with emotion, and Derek buried his face in the crook of Stiles' neck, seeking comfort in the warmth of his mate's embrace. The vulnerability in Derek's admission laid bare the complex emotions that had entangled him, revealing a depth of longing and regret that only added layers to the intricate bond they shared.
"What are you talking about?" Stiles protested, a mix of confusion and genuine concern etched on his face. "Of course, I want you. I've wanted you since I laid eyes on you," the omega exhaled, his words carrying a mixture of relief and a touch of disbelief.
Derek, feeling the weight of his confession like a heavy burden, began to share a haunting chapter from his past. "When I was 16, I fell in love with an older woman. I was young and naive, and I thought... this is it, she's the one. But she was a witch," Derek explained, the painful memories resurfacing. "While I was distracted, falling in love, she killed my parents and my sisters, seeking the power of the moon that werewolves possessed. I'm responsible for my family's death, Stiles. How can you want a mate like that? Have kids with me?" The alpha's eyes filled with tears as Stiles held him tight, wiping away the tears and offering a solace that the elder werewolf craved for.
The omega offered words of reassurance, a soothing balm for Derek's tortured soul. "Derek, it wasn't your fault. You were just a kid, and you couldn't have known what she was planning. You're not responsible for your family's death," Stiles whispered, his voice a gentle melody of understanding and forgiveness.
"Are you sure you want me?" the alpha insisted, doubt lingering in his eyes. In response, Stiles reached out, pressing a soft kiss to Derek's lips. "Yes, I'm sure," the omega declared, the conviction in his voice unwavering.
Derek, overcome with a surge of emotions, opened his mouth to speak but found himself silenced as Stiles deepened the kiss. It was a moment of connection, a declaration sealed with the warmth and intimacy of their joined lips. For the first time since their mating, the depth of their feelings unfolded in a kiss that spoke volumes, a promise of acceptance, understanding, and a shared journey ahead.
"You are mine, little omega," Derek whispered, breathless, the words carrying a possessive yet tender tone. Stiles smiled, radiating warmth like the sun, and replied, "So are you mine." He caressed the grey hair on Derek's head, adding, "I'm glad we found each other, even if a little late. I love you. You've given me a pack, a family, and an incredible home." Stiles continued, expressing his gratitude.
Derek smiled in return, laying Stiles back in bed and cuddling him even tighter. "From now on, you stay with me. This room, this house, we are going to have a full life, and maybe a few pups," Derek declared, sealing their shared destiny with a promise of a future filled with love, belonging, and the joy of building a life together.