Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Seungcheol doesn’t hate balls. He likes people, he likes socializing. He even enjoys dancing, despite not being particularly good at it. He always had fun dancing with his friends in school. But right now, he isn’t particularly enjoying himself. He is stuck in the corner, almost hidden behind a big indoor bush. It’s Lady Danbury’s first ball of the season, and naturally, Seungcheol has been invited. He is destined to become the Duke of York someday, and as a newly presented Alpha, it makes total sense. His mother and father seemed happy to drag him off, introduce him to some important people, and then leave Seungcheol to his own devices. He is fortunate that no mamas have tried to perch their omega children onto him. 

His parents are in no rush to get him married. They’re more worried about his younger brother, Seokmin, who just presented as an Omega at sixteen. There are two more years before he debuts in society, but they are already worried. He must marry well, and hopefully for love. Seungcheol knows his parents aren’t elitists and wouldn’t make him marry someone solely because of their status - but they aren’t ignorant. Marrying well is essential.

He wonders if he will be mentioned in Lady Whistledown’s paper. She has obviously returned, and she always reports on the new marriage prospects. That would definitely put him under the spotlight, but he is not sure he wants that. He isn’t against marriage at all, but he doesn’t want it to be just anyone. Call him a hopeless romantic, but he wants it to be love.

“Having fun?” Seungcheol quickly turns around. It’s Jeonghan. Seungcheol hasn’t seen him since they were fifteen and still in school together. As soon as Seungcheol presented as an alpha he started at Oxford, just like most alphas around him. He and Jeonghan had still been writing to each other, though less frequently over the last year. He still gets a letter from him each month. He knows that Jeonghan presented as an Omega, so he doesn’t understand his own surprise at seeing him here. Of course, he would be here - it’s the most important ball of the season. Jeonghan is looking for an Alpha, just like the other Omegas his age. Seungcheol feels stupid for not looking for him. He is wearing a light green suit; lighter colors are stable for unmated omegas. Seungcheol is even more surprised when smells Jeonghan for the first time, citrus - bitter but also sweet. He is also struck by how beautiful Jeonghan is. Seungcheol found him pretty when they were younger too, but it feels different tonight. Maybe it’s because he hasn’t seen him in almost three years. He has grown up well.

“It’s been so long,” he says instead of answering Jeonghan’s question. Jeonghan found him in a corner, so of course he wasn’t having fun. He looks around. “Are your parents here? it’s been ages since I’ve seen them.” 

“Well, of course, they wouldn’t send me off alone, Cheol,” Jeonghan laughs lightly at him. “Or should I call you, my lord?” A smirk dawns on his face.

“Well, no, I'm technically not the duke yet” Seungcheol laughs “and even if I were, why start now? We have known each other forever. It would be weird” Jeonghan nods, laughing along. Seungcheol feels lighter in his presence. He forgot how good it feels to be around Jeonghan. To have his attention. 

“How have you been?” Seungcheol asks. “I mean, from your letters, you sound well, but I don’t want to assume.”

“I’ve been well. You know preparing for this,” he gestures unimpressed out to the crowd. 

“No one has caught your eye?” 

“It’s the first ball of the season,” Jeonghan scoffs, but he lightly touches his dance card. It would not surprise Seungcheol if it was already filled up. Jeonghan is beautiful and charming. He must have had many Alphas fall at his feet. 

“I’ll take that as a no?” Seungcheol teases lightly. 

“What about you then? Any Omegas catching your eye” Jeonghan asks. 

“Hmm, I honestly haven’t really been looking. My parents just made me come so people remember I exist.” 

“Lucky Alpha privileges.” Jeonghan teases but Seungcheol knows that there is truth behind the words. He is lucky enough to be able to wait. Jeonghan must get married or else he’ll be excluded from society. While Jeonghan is the son of a baron and therefore has it easier than so many, Seungcheol knows that it would be great for Jeonghan to marry above his status. It’s a complicated game.

They stay quiet for a while, looking out at the couple’s dancing. Everything is bathed in beautiful yellow lighting. Seungcheol peaks at Jeonghan beside him. Maybe he wants to dance as well. It would be fun; they haven’t danced since they were young. But before he can ask another Omega approaches them. 

“Ahh, here you are! I almost thought you abandoned me” The omega says with an American accent. Seungcheol tenses up. He is beautiful, with big deer-like eyes and light brown, fluffy hair. He’s wearing a light blue suit and is smiling teasingly at Jeonghan. He looks angelic in candlelight glow. Seungcheol can’t seem to catch his scent, but he guesses it must be as sweet as he looks.

“Oh no! You found me,” Jeonghan answers sarcastically. He rolls his eyes, but a smile is present on his face. He looks almost fond, - a look Seungcheol doesn’t usually associate with Jeonghan.

The omega then seems to notice Seungcheol, his eyes growing big. Then he looks expectantly at Jeonghan. 

“Oh right, this is Omega Hong Jisoo, a family friend from America. Jisoo, this is my childhood friend Alpha Choi Seungcheol, son of Duke Choi of York” This seems to surprise Jisoo, but he smiles kindly and bows.

“It's a pleasure to meet you, sir” Seungcheol returns the bow.

“America, you say?” he asks. He feels a little awkward around the beautiful omega.

“Yes sir, but my parents are originally from London. They sent me here for the season to live with the Yoon’s.” Jisoo smiles. It’s a very pretty smile. His accent is charming. Seungcheol has never met anyone from America. 

“And is it living up to your expectations?” 

“Yes, very much so, I mean look at this beautiful ball. Lady Danbury is a most eloquent host.” 

Seungcheol can’t help but notice Jeonghan looking at them both, a strange scheming look in his eyes. 

Before Seungcheol can ask more, they get interrupted by an Alpha. He is tall and relatively handsome. He bows to Jisoo, “May I ask for Hong Jisoo’s next dance” Then he seems to notice Seungcheol, and he quickly bows to him as well. “If he isn’t already occupied.” he hurriedly adds. Seungcheol might not be the duke yet, but he still holds a status that no one in this room, except his father, can compete with. Seungcheol found it extremely awkward when he first presented, and everyone suddenly treated him like royalty. Jisoo smiles happily and reaches out his dance card. The alpha looks relieved before writing his name on his card. Then he takes Jisoo’s hand, leading them to the dance floor.

“Jisoo is popular,” Jeonghan says happily. “It would not surprise me if he got married this season.” 

Seungcheol just hums in agreement. It would not surprise him either.

When Seungcheol lies in bed that night he can’t stop thinking about Jisoo - his kind eyes and blinding smile. He only met him for a short minute, but he still left a huge impression on Seungcheol. He almost wants to go and court him tomorrow. He wonders if he enjoys poetry or flowers. But he doesn’t entertain the idea for long. He doesn’t know Jisoo. His family must not be bad since the Yoons like them. Seungcheol knows no family like them; they would not be cheated. 

But there is also a wrong feeling about it. Not that it feels wrong to fancy Jisoo. But he can’t imagine calling tomorrow and seeing Jeonghan as well. It feels incredibly wrong. It doesn’t matter anyway. There is no chance that Jisoo will choose him, and Jeonghan will likely have hundreds of suitors tomorrow. They will do well for themselves.

If he could just get Jeonghan’s citrus scent and Jisoo's gleaming eyes of his mind.

_

My Dearest Readers,

The First ball at Lady Danbury will always be eventful, and this year did not disappoint. Hong Jisoo was on everybody’s lips, as the young omega charmed himself into everybody's heart with that American smile. And with the endorsement of the Yoon family, he is already placed better than most young omegas. But this author must wonder if his charm can get him a good match. The only certainty is that he will be worth looking out for this season.

And speaking of the Yoon family, Yoon Jeonghan seemed to think the event was beneath him, dancing not one dance, only seen talking to the newest eligible Alpha, future Duke Choi Seungcheol. Everyone knows of their childhood fondness for each other, but will it lead to a match, or is Yoon Jeonghan reaching higher than he can grasp?

Jeonghan put the pamphlet down with a roll of his eyes. grasping high? He was just catching up with Seungcheol. He hadn't seen him in almost two years and the reunion was much welcomed. Seungcheol was still one of the only people he knew who would tease him back. Well, except for his new friend. 

Jisoo living with them was a shock if he was completely honest. He had heard of the Hongs before. His mother and Jisoo’s mother were great friends and wrote to each other all the time. He heard of their adventures to America, the daring new country with freedom from the rigid English society. He just didn’t understand why Jisoo wanted to find a husband here in England.

Jisoo had arrived just a couple of weeks before the season started. They had just moved to their London house and hadn’t even really had the chance to unpack. Jisoo was kind and helpful. Honestly, Jeonghan found him almost boring. The funniest thing about him was his American accent. But it didn’t take long for him to realize that Jisoo was anything but boring. Just like Jeonghan, he loved to tease, and he loved Jane Austen's work. They spent a whole afternoon discussing the omega liberation undertones in Pride and Prejudice. Jisoo had grown up in a less rigid and restrictive society than Jeonghan, and he was a breath of fresh air in Jeonghan’s boring days.

For a long time, all Jeonghan really looked forward to were Seungcheol’s letters. They were his only comfort. Jeonghan didn’t hate being an Omega in principle, but after he presented, his whole life changed. Find a good and wealthy Alpha and be a good host and mother. He felt dizzy and overwhelmed. Seungcheol never seemed to care in his letters. And even at the ball when he asked about potential suitors, it didn’t feel patronizing. Seungcheol asked because he cared for him. Jeonghan's heart ached.

Jisoo came into his room. He had just talked to his many suitors. Jeonghan had some callers as well, but not nearly as many as Jisoo. That’s what you get when you don’t socialize. He was nice to all of them, complimenting their scent, flowers, and poems. Jeonghan might not be excited about his position in life, but he is not dumb. If he must find an Alpha, he should at least find a good one. Jisoo falls onto Jeonghan’s bed. 

“I don’t want to hear another comment on my accent ever again. I mean, is that all you can say to me?” 

Jeonghan laughs. “So, I guess it went well with your suitors.''

Jisoo got up on his elbows. “Many of them were very nice and I have just met them. I don’t know yet if any of them are gonna be ‘The one.’”

“Well, I think you can expect a lot more suitors,” he says, handing him Wistledown’s pamphlet.

“Who’s Lady Whistledown?” Jisoo asks as he begins to read.

“The biggest gossip columnist in London—well, probably in all of England. Even the Queen reads it.” Jisoo's eyes widen as he continues to read. “She writes about everyone and their drama. You got a good review, so I’m sure that more suitors are coming your way.”

“So, you’re telling me this is a positive review?” He says after finishing the pamphlet. 

“Yeah, I mean, the others were much meaner,” Jeonghan says. “But nothing of note has happened yet, so I guess she has to fill up the page somehow.” 

Jeonghan lies down, looking up at the ceiling. Jisoo follows suit.

“There was really no one that piqued your interest?” he asks. 

“Hm, I mean if they want to marry me then I am interested” Jisoo laughs, but Jeonghan knows he’s not joking.

Just before the season started, Jisoo revealed the real reason he had traveled to London. His parents wanted him to marry someone from the English nobility. While the titles didn’t matter over in America anymore, many communities still put a lot of value into them. Jisoo’s little sister turns out to be an Alpha, and while she can marry above her station, it is less likely. So, the responsibility has fallen onto Jisoo’s shoulders.

“But,” Jisoo starts. They were in the darkness of Jeonghan’s room, sleeping together before they were to be presented to the queen. “I really want to marry for love. I know I can’t be picky, but I’m allowed to hope, am I not?” Jeonghan had hugged him so tight he was worried Jisoo couldn’t breathe. 

Jeonghan turns to look at Jisoo. He thinks of the ball yesterday.

“What did you think of Seungcheol?”

Jisoo turns to look at him as well. “He seemed nice, but you know I didn’t really get to talk to him much, so I can’t be a good judge of his character.” 

“He’s gonna be a Duke” Jeonghan says, smirking at Jisoo. Seungcheol seemed very captivated by Jisoo yesterday. He knows they would be a good match. 

“Well, according to this, you have your eyes set on him” Jisoo throws the Lady Whistledown pamphlet at him, his eyes teasingly awaiting Jeonghan’s rebuke. 

Jeonghan isn’t going to lie to himself—it would have been nice if he were able to marry Seungcheol. They get along very well; he thinks they could have a great marriage. But Seungcheol is on his way to becoming a Duke and sure, Jeonghan is the son of a Baron, but Seungcheol could easily reach higher than that. And he never asked him to dance yesterday, so Jeonghan knows he isn’t interested. Jeonghan spent all night convincing himself that it didn’t hurt.

“Sure, but according to this you also smell like apple pie, so I don’t think it's up to high journalism standards” When Jisoo laughs, Jeonghan wants to laugh as well. 

_

Promenading turns out not to be Jeonghan’s favorite activity. The sun is sharp in his eyes, and he would rather be in the comforting shade of his own house. He has walked with Sir Williams and Count Wright. Both were nice, but they didn’t seem to understand Jeonghan’s humor. Oh well, at least his mother will be proud of him.

Now he is sitting under a little tent his family has put up. His mother and father seem to be enjoying themselves, so that’s something at least. Jisoo is off walking with some nobleman Jeonghan didn’t catch the name of. Jeonghan had been right; Jisoo had only become more popular after Lady Whistledown called him charming.

He spots Seungcheol riding in. Jeonghan didn’t know he would be here; he hadn’t made any declaration about courting anybody. Jeonghan’s eyes follow him as he goes over to a group of alphas. They must be his friends.

Jeonghan isn’t the only one interested in his arrival. Many mothers and their omega children look at him as well. It makes sense—Seungcheol is young, handsome, and charming. And of course, he is going to be a duke after his father. He is the perfect son-in-law. His entrance will definitely be described in the next issue of Lady Whistledown.

Jeonghan is busy looking at Seungcheol when Jisoo returns. He is wearing a light-yellow suit today, and his beauty could easily rival the flowers around him.

“What are you looking at?” he asks, looking in the same direction as Jeonghan. “Ah, I should have guessed it.”

Jeonghan sends him a killer look. “He didn’t tell me he would be here; I mean, he’s not courting anyone, and he hasn’t expressed any interest in joining the season.”

“Maybe he just wants to see his friends,” Jisoo says. He hasn’t taken his eyes off Seungcheol since he noticed him. Jeonghan already knows what to do.

“Come on, let's promenade,” he says, standing up and reaching his hand out to Jisoo.

To not make his plan too obvious, he doesn’t walk directly up to Seungcheol. Instead, they stroll around, commenting on the flowers and trees and whatnot. They get stopped by some alphas sometimes, who comment on their beauty or scent. They both thank the compliments but don’t stop to talk. Jeonghan is a man on a mission, and Jisoo has already accepted that he must follow along.

Then they walk past Seungcheol and his group. The other alphas in his group stop talking immediately to look at them. They are all relatively young, so Jeonghan guesses they must be Seungcheol's school friends. He puts on his best smile.

“What brings two lovely omegas here?” one of them says. Jeonghan wants to scoff. They haven’t even been introduced before; he’s being quite rude. But it works for his plan, so he plays along.

“Hmm, just taking a stroll around.” He smiles wickedly at Seungcheol, who looks a little dazed. He hasn’t stopped looking at Jisoo. “We were actually just talking about you, Seungcheol.”

This seems to put Seungcheol out of his daze. “You were?” The alphas in his group also react to the improper use of Seungcheol’s name, their eyes going wide.

“Yes, well, Mr. Jisoo just mentioned how nice it was to meet you yesterday.” Jisoo clenches harder around his arm. A warning. This just makes him grin even wider.

“Well, it was very nice to meet Mr. Hong yesterday.” Seungcheol coughs. He looks completely taken aback. Jeonghan has never seen him this flustered before.

“It is actually perfect timing. You see, I get dreadful headaches from the sun, but Jisoo loves to walk. Maybe you would like to accompany him?” Seungcheol looks very shocked before he remembers he is in public, and he straightens himself up.

“It would be my pleasure.” He reaches his arm out for Jisoo to hold on to. Jisoo looks taken aback as well, but he gracefully interlocks their arms, and a smile blooms on his face. Off they go.

“It was lovely meeting you, but now I must take my leave.” Jeonghan bows at the alphas but makes sure to send them his best eyes. Sure, one of them was rude, but they can’t be too bad if they’re Seungcheol’s friends. He must not forget his other purpose here.

When Jisoo returns, he can’t stop smiling. “Don’t think that I don’t know what you’re trying to do, Yoon Jeonghan.”

“Well, it’s working, isn’t it?”

_

And now for the name on everybody’s lips: Mr. Hong Jisoo. He seems to have gotten himself the best kind of friend, for Mr. Yoon Jeonghan is sharper than any screaming mother. First seen talking to Mr. Choi Seungcheol, and now promenading around with him. This author believes that he has set his eyes well. But let’s see if mister Yoon Jeonghan is letting Choi Seungcheol go so easily.

_

The alpha Jeonghan is dancing with is quite nice. He is 4 years older than him, funny, and not too caught up in his status. He is the second son of an Earl, which would be quite a catch for Jeonghan. But aside from that he is quite enjoying himself. Jeonghan hopes he will come calling tomorrow. 

Jisoo is off dancing with Seungcheol. Seungcheol has asked him himself. Jisoo had lit up like the sun after a rainy day. Jeonghan stomach turned a little when that happened, but that was natural. Seungcheol was maybe his best friend and Jisoo was quickly becoming his favorite person to talk to. He couldn’t show any emotion on his face when it happened. He couldn’t take Lady Whistledown writing about him and Seungcheol in the same breath again.

When the dance was over, his partner offered to go get him lemonade. “That sounds lovely” He smiled a smile he knew would get any alpha down. His mother had taught him well.

While waiting, he looked around for any signs of Seungcheol and Jisoo. They couldn’t have gone far; it would be scandalous. Then he spots them. Seungcheol was introducing Jisoo to his parents. Mister and Miss Choi were lovely people, always kind and smiling. Jeonghan couldn’t breathe.

He wanted Seungcheol to be serious about courting of course. It’s standard to introduce new acquaintances to one's parents - even if marriage is not the end goal. Jisoo smiles so prettily up at Seungcheol, and Seungcheol reciprocates it with just as much excitement. Jeonghan is gonna throw up.

His dance partner returns with a glass of punch, and Jeonghan tries to act normal. He can’t fuck this up, this is the first alpha he has had any interest in. But his date can smell the distress on him.

“Are you okay, Mister Yoon?” 

“No, I think I must take my leave. But I enjoyed your company very much, it was most delightful” The alpha nods in understanding and follows Jeonghan out.

Jeonghan should probably have found his parents. He can’t take the carriage and leave them, but he didn’t really think it through. He knows he must return to the ballroom, but he stays for a little while to enjoy the cold air. There is a voice warning Jeonghan about being alone. If any alpha came up and talked to him it would be a big scandal. But there is no one out here, so he just enjoys himself for a moment. 

Suddenly there is a figure next to him. Jeonghan turns to look, and it is lord Smith. He’s around 50 years old, and his husband died a couple of years ago. Jeonghan knows he had rejoined the marriage market recently, Lady Whistledown had reported extensively on it. 

“Lord Smith” Jeonghan bows, but he takes a couple of steps back. He needs to leave. 

“Mister Yoon,” he says. “I didn’t expect to see you out here.”

“I wasn’t feeling well, sir. But I was just about to return inside, so if you’ll excuse me.”

A rough hand takes hold of his arm. Jeonghan yelps out. 

“I just wanted to talk,” Lord Smith says, “I have been quite taken by you.” 

“Well, then let’s talk inside. It’s not proper for us to be alone” Jeonghan tries to get out, but Lord Smith's grip tightens. 

“You are quite beautiful Yoon Jeonghan.” Jeonghan doesn’t like the way he says his name. It’s very slimy. He has not let go of Jeonghan’s arm. In the darkness, Jeonghan can make out his eyes, which are slightly red.

Then he pulls him even closer. Jeonghan is about to scream, but before he can do anything Lord Smith is on the ground. Right where he stood is Seungcheol, whose eyes had turned bright red, his fist still raised. Seungcheol just punched Lord Smith. 

“Seungcheol!” Seungcheol turns to him. Jeonghan has never seen full red alpha eyes before. He has traces of red in his mother's eyes, when she was mad, or once when his father had fallen off his horse. He knows it’s a sign that their alpha is in control. and it’s very improper. 

Seungcheols eyes slowly fade back to his dark brown eyes. “I saw him follow you out here? are you okay?”

“Yes, he didn’t get to do anything” Jeonghan looks down at Lord Smith who is moaning, holding his now bloody nose. 

“He’s scum,” Seungcheol says angrily, his eyes flaring up slightly. 

Then it hits Jeonghan. “We can’t be seen out here together! Imagine what Lady Whistledown will write.” He can’t imagine the scandal it would be, especially with what the author already has reported. It seems it hit Seungcheol as well. 

“I’ll take care of him” Seungcheol looks down at Lord Smith again, before returning to look at Jeonghan. “Go back inside and get your parents to get the carriage.” Jeonghan nods. Everything feels wrong. He wants to rib of the arm where the alpha touched him.

Luckily his parents don’t ask any questions and they go off to retrieve Jisoo. Jeonghan stays as far behind as he can, hoping nobody catches his distressed scent. He’s happy that he put on more perfume than usual.

When they finally come home, Jisoo comes into his room. Jeonghan can’t stop the tears from falling. Jisoo lets out his most calming scent and hugs him tightly. After just sitting there for a while, Jeonghan explains everything. Jisoo holds his hand the little while it takes. 

“Luckily Mister Choi was there.” He says much later. Jeonghan nods. He almost wants to tell Jisoo about how beautiful Seungcheol was, eyes red and face angry, but then turning so soft when he looked at Jeonghan. But it feels like his own little secret, so he keeps it close to himself.

Chapter Text

Jeonghan was fortunate that Lady Whistledown didn't catch wind of the incident the very next day. She reported on other gossip that filled their morning discussions and entertained their various callers. Among them, the alpha Jeonghan had danced with the previous day arrived with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Jeonghan couldn't hide his relief, thanking him profusely and giving him most of his attention. Jisoo sent a teasing smirk when Jeonghan's flirting became a bit too intense. Jeonghan couldn’t help it; Lord Thomas was the only alpha who had captured his interest. Well, aside from the alpha who punched someone for him the night before.

Seungcheol, however, did not come calling, and Jisoo tried to hide his disappointment. Jeonghan didn't understand it. They seemed so happy at the party, and Seungcheol appeared quite smitten with Jisoo. Jeonghan knew Jisoo wouldn't admit it, but he was clearly taken by Seungcheol. Almost all their conversations revolved around him, but strangely enough, it didn't bother Jeonghan.

After their callers had left, and they were surrounded by flowers, jewelry, and poems, Jisoo retreated to his room. Jeonghan understood; he needed some alone time. He would check on him later, but first, he needed to discuss his suitors with his parents and then figure out what to do with the flowers.

"Lord Thomas seems lovely," his mother remarked. Jeonghan nodded in agreement, taking a sip of his tea.

"Hmm, and his parents are good people. The finances are in order," his father added, though he was mostly focused on his paper. While his mother was the alpha in the relationship, his father had always been more interested in the economic aspects of their estate. Some would call it atypical.

"What do you think, Jeonghan?" his mother asked. She wanted a love match for him, knowing that her marriage, though not originally a love match, had become one. They loved each other and had built a wonderful life together. But Jeonghan, being their only child, had to marry well.

"I'm not committed yet, but I think he could be a good alpha," he said after some thought. His mother smiled.

Suddenly, one of their butlers entered. His mother preferred to keep the servants out while discussing Jeonghan’s suitors, believing they gossiped too much. She hadn't felt safe since Lady Whistledown began her reports.

"Mr. Choi is here to see Mr. Yoon Jeonghan," the butler announced firmly.

Jeonghan couldn't believe his ears. For him? Not for Jisoo? His parents looked equally confused.

"He wants to speak with you alone. Should I accompany you?" the butler continued. Jeonghan and Seungcheol couldn't be completely alone together; that would be improper. This was the closest they could get. Jeonghan knew his mother wouldn't approve, and he didn't feel entirely safe with the idea either.

Jeonghan stood up with a quick nod, his heart pounding and palms sweaty.

Seungcheol didn’t seem happy to see him, but he didn't seem sad either. He bowed and followed Jeonghan and the butler into a smaller drawing room. The butler stood in the corner, averting his eyes.

Seungcheol gave him a piercing look before turning his full attention to Jeonghan. Jeonghan struggled to concentrate, never having been so close to Seungcheol’s scent. It was salty like the sea but also fresh, like the morning after a storm. It was softer than most alphas, and Jeonghan preferred it that way. Unmated alphas wore their scent proudly, hoping to attract an omega. After mating, they often covered it up, masking the omega's scent on them. Omegas didn't have to cover theirs but often did with perfume. Jeonghan let himself imagine his sweet citrus scent blending with Seungcheol’s.

"I wanted to ask if you were okay after everything that happened yesterday," Seungcheol said. Of course, it made sense now.

Jeonghan nodded slowly. "Yes, I was just very shocked." He struggled to meet Seungcheol’s eyes, which were piercing. With a deep breath, he returned the gaze. "Thank you for saving me."

"He should never have been near you in the first place," Seungcheol said firmly.

"It was my mistake; I wandered off alone," Jeonghan began, but Seungcheol cut him off.

"You did nothing wrong; he is a disgusting excuse for an alpha."

Jeonghan had to look away again, not knowing what to do with himself. He couldn't get the image of Seungcheol from yesterday out of his head—both the smitten, happy Seungcheol and the angry one.

"Why didn’t you call on Jisoo today?" he asked after a while, hoping to divert Seungcheol's attention. It worked; Seungcheol looked shocked and then bashfully away, his cheeks reddening. Jeonghan found it endearing.

When Seungcheol didn’t answer, Jeonghan continued. "Don’t play with him, Cheol. He deserves a good alpha."

"I’m not trying to play with him," Seungcheol said, more confidently. "I was just unsure if he wanted me to court him."

"He wants you to, trust me." Seungcheol gave Jeonghan a curious look before nodding.

"He’s so lovely; I don’t know what to do with myself around him," Seungcheol confessed, smiling to himself as if Jisoo’s loveliness were his own secret. Jeonghan felt the air leave his lungs.

"I know. That’s why you have to stop being an idiot and start courting him."

"I will try," Seungcheol said playfully, reaching out his arm. Jeonghan was taken aback but then realized Seungcheol probably wanted to lead him back to his parents. He grasped on, trying to ignore how the touch burned him.

_

When Seungcheol arrived home, he was greeted by two smirks.

"So," Seokmin began. Seungcheol rolled his eyes, looking for an escape. He hadn’t missed the Lady Whistledown pamphlet in Seokmin's hands. "Did you just come from courting Hong Jisoo?"

"Not that it’s any of your business, but no, I was actually there to see Jeonghan," Seungcheol said, trying to push past them to get to his room.

"Yoon Jeonghan? Are you courting him instead?" Seungkwan asked excitedly. "Lady Whistledown wrote that you two had history." Seokmin laughed loudly at that.

Seungcheol rolled his eyes again and playfully hit Seungkwan. His brothers had been obsessed with Lady Whistledown and courting ever since she began releasing her pamphlets. They wouldn’t stop talking about the fact that Seungcheol was even mentioned in one. They must find his suffering amusing. Seungcheol finally got through and made a beeline for his room.

"You’re no fun," Seungkwan yelled after him.

"I am not courting Yoon Jeonghan," Seungcheol said, though it pained him. Just before he disappeared up the stairs, he looked back at his brothers. "But I am planning on courting Hong Jisoo." His brothers erupted in excited cheers. Seungcheol couldn’t keep secrets from them for long.

Later that evening, Seungcheol went to talk to his parents. If he wanted to court seriously, which he did, he needed their permission.

He felt hesitant to do it. Not because Jisoo wasn’t amazing—he was. Seungcheol was amazed at how quickly he had become attached to him. Jisoo, with his big, sparkly eyes, made Seungcheol feel like the only person in the world. Jisoo, who was gentle and calm but also a burst of energy and brightness. Seungcheol couldn’t stop thinking about the playful Jisoo who appeared around Jeonghan, a glint in his eyes. Just like Jeonghan, Jisoo hated being bored. They always looked for opportunities for fun, always in their own little world. Maybe one day Seungcheol would be lucky enough to see Jisoo like that around him.

His parents didn’t seem shocked at Seungcheol's wish.

"He seems lovely, my dear," his mother said, fixing Seungcheol’s coat. She had given him a big hug after he expressed his interest, telling him how proud she was of him.

Seungcheol felt stunned. It was a big deal that he wanted to court someone, especially since he was their eldest and only alpha child (at least so far). But his parents acted like he had just announced his marriage to Hong Jisoo. It wasn’t even settled that he would marry him. A lot of courtships went nowhere for various reasons—the attraction was short-lived, or the parents couldn’t agree on the dowry. Maybe it was because he was so young? But he knew most alphas his age were also looking for an omega.

"And if the Yoons approve of him, his connections can’t be awful," his father said stoically, laughing at the look his mother gave him.

"Seungcheol has more than enough connections for both of them," she said, cradling her husband’s arm tightly and smiling up at him. Seungcheol’s heart ached. He had feared they would have reservations about Jisoo's status.

"Well, he has to say yes first," Seungcheol said, bringing the attention back to himself. They both looked at him like he was crazy. He would have laughed if he wasn’t feeling so insecure. "What if he says no?" he asked, hoping for reassurance.

"He won’t," his mother said confidently, placing her hands on both his cheeks and kissing his forehead. "How could anyone say no to you?"

Seungcheol loves going to the races. He's always been competitive, so reading up on all the horses and their different attributes is fun for him. He’s been looking forward to it all season.

Yesterday, he visited Jisoo for the first time. Jeonghan had looked at him approvingly, stirring something within him. The feeling lingered all morning, intensifying as Jisoo gave him his full attention, looking genuinely over the moon at Seungcheol’s visit.

“Would you like to accompany me to the races tomorrow?” Jisoo asked. The sweetness of his scent made Seungcheol dizzy. The caramel aroma, instead of being overwhelming, felt homey and warm.

Now, he has Hong Jisoo, dressed in the prettiest blue suit, on his arm.

“This is my first race,” Jisoo says, looking up at Seungcheol. His eyes turn into small crescents when he sees Seungcheol already looking at him, before bashfully taking in the many people and stalls.

“Oh, really? You don’t have them back home?”

“No, we do, it’s quite popular actually,” Jisoo answers, seemingly content.

“Then why didn’t you go?”

“My mother doesn’t care for it, and my father only does what makes her happy.” Jisoo looks up at him again, but with the teasing tone in his voice, Seungcheol knows what he’s doing. That’s the kind of alpha I would want, he seems to say with his eyes.

“Well, then I think your dad has great judgment.” Jisoo giggles, and Seungcheol feels his chest puff slightly out. He would do anything to get Jisoo laughing. His smile and laugh are so contagious. He almost feels undeserving of it.

He begins telling a story about how Seungkwan almost set the house on fire when they see Jeonghan. He isn’t alone, surrounded by many different Alphas trying to get a laugh out of him. But Jeonghan’s full attention is only on one alpha. Seungcheol recognizes him from yesterday morning, Lord Thomas. Seungcheol almost wants to go over and pull Jeonghan away. What surprises him the most is how Jisoo’s scent also turns slightly sour. Maybe Lord Thomas is horrible? Before he can ask, someone calls out his name.

“Lord Choi.” Seungcheol is greeted by Viscount Bridgerton, with his alpha wife, the now Viscountess Kate Bridgerton, on his arm. They were the big scandal of the last season, even Seungcheol heard about it out in the country. Seungcheol has met them both before, but they are much older and wiser than him. He often feels like a little child around the influential members of the Ton.

“Lord Bridgerton, Lady Bridgerton.” He bows to them both, and Jisoo follows suit. “This is Mr. Hong Jisoo.” Jisoo bows again.

Lady Bridgerton's eyes light up in recognition. “Ah, I have heard so much about you, Mr. Hong.” Jisoo seems a little taken aback, but it’s to be expected. Both alphas have such a presence that it’s hard not to feel a little threatened.

“Only good things, I hope,” Jisoo answers, smiling his beautiful smile. Seungcheol feels proud of him.

“Well, of course, capturing the eyes of Mr. Choi puts you in everyone’s good graces around here.” Seungcheol doesn’t know what Lord Bridgerton means.

“Oh really?” Jisoo says, smirking lightly at Seungcheol. “He’s that popular?”

“Oh yes,” Lady Bridgerton says. Seungcheol doesn’t understand what is happening. Him popular in the Ton? “The young duke is a popular topic, a hope for the future.”

Before Jisoo can ask more questions, they are called away by Lord Bridgerton’s younger sister. They smile politely and take their leave.

“They were both alphas, right?” Jisoo asks as they watch them go.

“Yes, the queen allows special marriages like that sometimes,” Seungcheol answers. It was a big scandal, but when the Ton understood how much they loved each other, they accepted it. And no one goes against the Queen.

“Oh really?” Jisoo's eyes grow big; like this opens a whole new world for him.

“Yes, look.” Seungcheol finds exactly who he wants in the crowd. “That’s Mr. Ito and his two omegas. They got married about four years ago; the wedding was the biggest event of the season. If you look closely, you can see that he has two mate bites.”

Jisoo can’t take his eyes off them, and he squeezes Seungcheol's arm harder.

“Is everything okay?” Seungcheol asks.

“Yes,” Jisoo says and returns to look at Seungcheol. “We just don’t allow that in America.”

“Oh really?” Jisoo nods, looking back at Mr. Ito. Seungcheol doesn’t understand the look in Jisoo's eyes. “It’s natural. If you can mate more than two people, or Alphas can mate Alphas, Omegas as well, why shouldn’t you be allowed to?”

It seems that Jisoo doesn’t have an answer to that.

­_

My Dearest Reader, it seems that Choi Seungcheol is officially off the market, leaving a long string of broken hearts behind. But whether the alpha knows it himself remains a mystery. And the lucky omega who caught his attention should be of no surprise: Hong Jisoo. The two of them can’t seem to get enough of each other’s company. This author predicts they will have a successful match but can’t help feeling a little disappointed at the lack of intrigue. Oh well, good luck to the future grace, Hong Jisoo.

Jisoo has grown to hate Lady Whistledown. At first, he found her writings amusing, as if she wrote whatever came to mind, not minding the truthfulness at all. Jeonghan also found her outrageous, and they bonded over that together.

But the more she writes of him and Seungcheol, the more acid his stomach becomes. Everyone loves Seungcheol. He has not met a single person with one bad thing to say about him. Well, except Jeonghan, but he never means it. It’s that childhood friendship shining through.

“Seungcheol is a pushover,” Jeonghan had said after they came home from the races. He was undressing, and for some reason, Jisoo’s heart contracted at the sight. He quickly turned away, pretending to find the plant interesting.

“I have noticed.” Honestly, Jisoo finds it endearing. Seungcheol just wants to please. It reminds him of his parents' marriage, something he always envied.

Jeonghan begins changing into his evening suit. They are going to a ball at some estate—Jisoo didn’t pay attention. The only thing that matters is that Seungcheol is going to be there. Just the thought of dancing with Seungcheol makes butterflies rise in his stomach.

Jisoo didn’t think he would be this attached to him. He only knew of him through Jeonghan, and his first impression was just: a handsome, young, rich alpha. But Seungcheol was so much more than that. He was kind and always eager to please. Almost shy, as if he couldn’t believe that anyone would find anything special in him. But also, in such an Alpha way, dominant. Every word he says feels final, and every look he gives sends shivers down Jisoo’s spine. People look to him, even though he is so young. They all know he is going to be a great duke. Jisoo is certain of it too.

But the more time they spend together, the greedier Jisoo becomes. He wants Seungcheol's attention, his time, his love. He wants to see Seungcheol when he wakes up. He wants to know all his deepest secrets. He thinks Seungcheol likes him too. He’s courting him; that should be answer enough. But he is always so hesitant, as if he’s not fully committed.

And that makes Jisoo hesitant too. Because no matter how much he desires Seungcheol, he is also using him. He needs to marry well to keep his sister and parents in good graces. America is different; without the titles, reputation has become everything. No matter what, he will always have ulterior motives.

“Are you okay?” He sees Jeonghan’s concerned face. He’s in his dress pants and a white shirt. Jisoo can almost make out the outline of his body under the shirt. Jisoo almost wants to tell him all his worries but decides against it. He knows what Jeonghan would say—that Jisoo deserves the very best. Jisoo doesn’t feel deserving of either Jeonghan or Seungcheol.

“Yes, I am just nervous about tonight’s ball.” Jeonghan softly pats his hair. His presence is so calming.

“You are going to sweep Seungcheol off his feet. He won’t know what hit him.” Jisoo almost wants Jeonghan to be wrong.

_

Well, this author is not afraid of admitting her mistakes. Tonight’s ball at Lord Antin’s estate seemed uneventful for most attendees. But if one took a closer look at the couple on everyone’s lips, Omega Hong Jisoo and Alpha Choi Seungcheol, one would notice that the omega didn’t seem very pleased to be there that evening. This author would dare to guess that their courtship has already come to an end, as the love-struck Alpha seems none the wiser to his Omega’s cold behavior.

_

They don’t talk about it. Jisoo reads the pamphlet and immediately rips it up. Jeonghan doesn’t look surprised at his reaction, and he doesn’t ask any questions. Jisoo feels relieved; he doesn’t want to defend himself.

He didn’t mean to act differently. It feels like there are two battles within Jisoo: his omega side wants to do anything for Seungcheol, while his brain insists, he doesn’t deserve such an amazing alpha’s attention. He guesses his brain won the fight last night. He couldn’t get out of his head, each affection from Seungcheol making him hate himself more.

Seungcheol seemed to notice his behavior, which made it all worse. Tears prickled in Jisoo’s eyes. He didn’t know what to do with himself.

He must make up for it if Seungcheol decides to call on him today. He must.

Seungcheol is full of understanding when he arrives that morning, with a beautiful bouquet of blue flowers in hand. Jisoo takes a deep breath and excuses himself for last night, citing a sense of being out of place.

“I often feel out of place at balls; it’s completely understandable,” Seungcheol says, his smile so kind that Jisoo wants to cry again. What is he even doing? He must decide if he can live with the guilt if he wants to marry Seungcheol. And soon, before Lady Whistledown gets even uglier. And before he hurts Seungcheol’s feelings even more than he already has.

He doesn’t expect his answer to come so quickly.

Later that evening, at yet another ball, Jisoo finds himself surprisingly captivated by the decorations and atmosphere. If he didn’t need to marry (and wasn’t in love with Seungcheol, so much it hurts his heart when he looks at him), he would want to be out multiple seasons just to experience them to the fullest.

Jeonghan doesn’t share his excitement, but he seems happier when he spots Lord Thomas. “Good luck with Cheol,” he says, giving Jisoo a little squeeze. Jisoo can feel the touch long after Jeonghan has left.

A bitter taste forms in his mouth when he sees the smile Jeonghan sends Lord Thomas. Jisoo likes the man less and less, the closer Jeonghan gets to him. He doesn’t understand these feelings. A voice in his head says he is jealous, and Jisoo might admit, only a little bit, deep in the night, that he is. Just like he feels selfish over Seungcheol, he feels selfish over Jeonghan. He wants him to stay by his side at the balls, promenading around just the two of them.

A new image has also crept up, ever since he learned of Mr. Ito and his two omegas. Seungcheol, Jeonghan, and him promenading together. They’re sleeping in the same bed. But he doesn’t let those thoughts linger for long. Just because that possibility is there, doesn’t mean anything for their relationship.

He finds Seungcheol quickly, though he isn’t even looking for him, too caught up in his thoughts. When he sees him, his brain goes into panic mode. Should he flirt, or should he hide? Should he confess everything to Seungcheol?

Seungcheol smiles when he spots him and leaves his group of alpha friends to meet him. They grin after him, and Jisoo is sure that if it were appropriate, they would holler.

And then Jeonghan is there. They both look at him before looking at each other.

“Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t see you, Cheol. I was just going to talk to Jisoo, but it can wait,” Jeonghan says, the scheming spark in his eyes back. It doesn’t look genuine, though. Maybe it’s because he will be alone, but Jisoo doesn’t feel good about it.

“Where is Lord Thomas?” Jisoo asks, trying to make him stay. Seungcheol is also now looking a little confused at Jeonghan.

“He’s over by the sweets.” Jeonghan turns, and Jisoo can see him talking to a pretty beta.

“Why isn’t he with you?” Seungcheol shares Jisoo’s worry.

“Oh, no, it isn’t like that,” Jeonghan says quickly. “He hurt his leg at the hunt yesterday and didn’t want to dance. So, I thought I could go talk to you instead.”

The explanation feels odd to Jisoo. Why wouldn’t he just talk to Lord Thomas if he couldn’t dance? Jeonghan seems to notice his suspicions.

“Besides, I don’t have to be attached to his side all evening.”

“I heard about his injury,” Seungcheol says. “He’s not the best hunter, is he?”

“And you are, Mr. Choi?” Jisoo teases, both he and Jeonghan looking judgmentally at him. Seungcheol begins to laugh.

“I wouldn’t claim to be, but at least I can admit my flaws. Unlike some alphas,” he says teasingly. Jisoo feels giddy seeing him like this, a side that only comes out when Jeonghan is around. “I heard he tried to show off but ended up only shooting a tree by accident. And then falling over the equipment, hurting his leg.”

“Don’t talk bad about Jeonghan’s alpha,” Jisoo says through laughter, sending a smirk to Jeonghan, who in turn rolls his eyes.

“He is not my alpha.”

Suddenly, they can’t stop talking. The room feels lighter. It feels good to be the three of them: Seungcheol, who just lets them tease him, and Jeonghan, who must know more gossip than Lady Whistledown, make for excellent company, especially together.

“I do wish for a dance, though,” Jeonghan says after a while. Seungcheol has gone to get them lemonade.

“Mr. Choi would probably dance with you if you asked,” Jisoo says, not thinking much of it. It’s just a dance.

“Seungcheol?” Jeonghan asks, a little disbelieving. “He hasn’t danced with anyone this season but you.”

“Really?” Jisoo can’t believe it. Even after Seungcheol started courting him, he still danced with other alphas who asked. It was common practice. He had assumed Seungcheol had done the same.

“Yeah, I mean, he didn’t go into this season looking for a mate, so I guess it makes sense.” Jisoo nods but feels a little weird. There is also a part of him that wants Jeonghan and Seungcheol to dance together. Jisoo doesn’t understand this part of himself; he would usually want them all to himself.

“Then, what are you waiting for? Ask him to dance. If he’s only danced with me, it wouldn’t raise any suspicions.” Jeonghan doesn’t seem to believe him. “Lady Whistledown hasn’t even mentioned you and Seungcheol in the same breath for weeks. What’s stopping you?” Jisoo desperately wants them to dance. He doesn’t know why.

“Ahh, perfect timing,” he says when Seungcheol returns, two glasses of lemonade in his hands. Seungcheol looks confused, but Jisoo thinks he is also a little happy that Jisoo is smiling up at him. Jeonghan looks at him for a moment, then smiles to himself.

“Cheollie, I really want to dance,” he whines, looking up at Seungcheol with big eyes and pouted lips. Jisoo feels heat in his own cheeks and his heart beats faster. Jeonghan isn’t even looking at him. Seungcheol seems composed, but Jisoo notices a little red on his cheeks and his eyes widening slightly. He is so pretty; Jisoo wants to die. They should be hung in a museum.

“Um, I mean sure,” Seungcheol sets the glasses of lemonade down on a nearby table and reaches his hand out before quickly retracting it. “With me? Or?”

“Yes, with you.” Jeonghan’s smile is so soft and smitten that Jisoo is taken aback. The tone of everything has shifted. Before, it was teasingly fun. Now it feels heavy with anticipation. Seungcheol reaches out again, and Jeonghan lays his hand in his. Even though Jeonghan is wearing gloves, Jisoo almost reacts to the contact of their hands. Jeonghan and Seungcheol look at their hands and then at each other before moving to the dance floor.

Jisoo can’t stop looking at them as they dance. He wants to take his eyes off them; he probably should. Jeonghan says something that makes Seungcheol laugh, and Jeonghan laughs so purely and unfiltered that Jisoo wishes he could paint it. He knows for certain they would be the most beautiful painting in any museum.

And then it hits him. He feels so stupid for not noticing before. Seungcheol and Jeonghan love each other—they are in love. They have probably loved each other for longer than Jisoo was even in the picture. They are perfect for each other. They are both so kind and giving. Jeonghan gave up Seungcheol to Jisoo because he knew that Jisoo had to marry well. And well, he knew a perfect, rich, lovely alpha. And Seungcheol was kind to Jisoo because he was Jeonghan’s friend. The puzzle pieces fit.

Jisoo wants to go home, curl up, and cry. Instead, he just keeps on watching. It’s the way Seungcheol can’t take his eyes off Jeonghan, holding him so preciously. The way Jeonghan seems to relax around him. They keep making eye contact, and Jisoo is sure they have forgotten everyone else in the room. Including himself.

He’s so stupid. He almost came in the way of a perfect match. His omega screams, but for what, Jisoo doesn’t know. For Seungcheol? For Jeonghan? For the pain to stop?

When they return from the dance floor, Jisoo can’t look them in the eye. He can’t really speak either. Jeonghan and Seungcheol’s worried looks make him want to disappear forever. Maybe he deserves that.

Chapter Text

“What are you doing?” Jeonghan almost yells as soon as he and Jisoo are alone. Jisoo gasps a little, probably unprepared for that reaction, but he quickly looks away.

“What do you mean?” Jisoo asks, but Jeonghan rolls his eyes. He doesn’t have time for this.

“Don’t play dumb with me. You’re ignoring Seungcheol, and you’re ignoring me!” Jeonghan struggles to keep his voice down. It wouldn’t help to yell, but it's hard not to raise his voice. He feels so lost and aggravated, not understanding the game Jisoo is playing.

“I didn’t mean to,” Jisoo starts but stops. They both know it’s a lie. It’s not hard to notice Jisoo talking to anyone but Seungcheol at balls and outings, then returning to his room as quickly as possible when they get home. Jeonghan looks at Jisoo expectantly, waiting for him to continue. To say something. Jisoo sighs, clenching his hands nervously.

“Seungcheol and I are not right for each other,” he says after a while, his words hesitant as if he doesn’t believe them himself. Jeonghan certainly doesn’t believe him.

“Did he make you think that?”

“No,” Jisoo says quickly. “He’s done nothing wrong. I just realized my heart wasn’t in it.” Every word comes out hard, almost rehearsed.

“So, you just led Seungcheol on?” Jeonghan doesn’t believe a single word out of Jisoo’s mouth. The thought makes Jisoo look even more distressed.

“No!” He rubs his eyes. “I really liked him, but I realized that it wasn’t going to work, so I stopped leading him on.”

Jisoo looks him in the eyes, trying desperately to make Jeonghan understand him. He looks almost desperate, needing Jeonghan to believe him to believe himself. They have moved very close. If Jeonghan wasn’t mad at him, he would focus on how beautiful Jisoo is, how his closeness makes his heartbeat faster, and how his scent engulfs him—so sweet, so addicting.

“Do you believe that yourself?” Jeonghan asks. He mourns the loss of Jisoo as he moves away. Sitting down on the bed, curling his hands in his hair, Jeonghan feels bad for him. Jisoo is in some sort of crisis, and no matter how mad he is, Jeonghan could never leave him like this. He sits down next to him, the action making Jisoo seem even more miserable.

“I don’t understand why you’re acting like this, but maybe you can explain it to me,” he tries kindly. He reaches out to touch Jisoo, but Jisoo moves away before he can get the chance.

“How can you be so kind to me after everything I’ve done to you?”

“Done to me?”

“First, I steal Mr. Choi away from you, and then I treat you both so badly. How can you stand me?” Now it’s Jisoo’s voice that turns loud, tears streaming down his face.

“You’re making no sense.” Jeonghan stands up again, thinking they’ll continue this dance for a while. “Why would you be stealing Seungcheol away from me?”

“Because you are in love with each other!” Jisoo says it like it’s a universal truth. Jeonghan takes a step back. He thought he had been good at hiding his feelings for Seungcheol. But more importantly...

“Seungcheol doesn’t have any deep affection for me,” Jeonghan can’t bring himself to say “love.”

“I mean, I didn’t see it at first either,” Jisoo starts ranting. “But he always talks about you when we are together and the way he looks at you. That night at the ball, he looked so in love. And you have known each other for years.”

“No, Jisoo, stop.” Jisoo stops but doesn’t look pleased. “Seungcheol is in love with you.”

“It’s okay, Jeonghan, you don’t have to spare my feelings. You’ve done so much for me; you deserve happiness and love.” Jisoo takes his hands, so caring. “I will find someone else.”

The words die in Jeonghan’s throat. Jisoo tries to look strong despite the tears streaming down his face. He looks so earnest yet so fragile. A beautiful porcelain flower.

“Jisoo,” Jeonghan softly caresses his hands, pulling him closer. “I don’t know how you got this idea in your head, but Seungcheol and I aren’t in love. You and Seungcheol are in love.”

“I do love him,” Jisoo says quietly, his voice hoarse from crying. “But I don’t deserve him. I will only use him.”

“We use the ones we love. We take and take because we are selfish creatures. But when someone loves you, you want them to use you.” Jeonghan thinks about himself. Seungcheol and Jisoo’s happiness makes him feel happy. He selfishly wants them to be happy; that’s the only way he will be happy. He will let them use him over and over just for their happiness.

“I am the most selfish then,” Jisoo answers. He takes one of his hands out of Jeonghan's to wipe his tears. Jeonghan immediately dips for his handkerchief. Jisoo takes it with shaking hands before he continues.

“I want Mr. Choi for myself,” he whispers. Jeonghan gets that. He felt like that when he was younger, and it never really went away. The idea that alphas are the possessive ones always sat wrong with Jeonghan. Maybe that’s why it doesn’t completely hurt when he sees Seungcheol and Jisoo together. He wants them all for himself, and since he can’t get that, this is the best option. The closest he can get to his wishes. “I wish the roles were reversed. I would give him all the love he would ask for.”

“Then do it.” Jeonghan tries to look Jisoo in the eyes, but Jisoo keeps looking away, as if looking Jeonghan in the eyes hurts. Before Jeonghan can continue, Jisoo interrupts.

“But I want Mr. Choi to be happy. And he can only be that with you. If love makes us selfish, then it also makes us selfless.” He takes a deep breath. “I know what I saw. You and Seungcheol are in love. And I love you too much to not let you take this opportunity. My happiness comes from yours.”

“You are in love with Seungcheol.” Jeonghan cannot hide his frustration. But he knows deep down that he and Jisoo are doing the same thing—that their happiness comes from each other’s. It makes him dizzy, in a way he can’t understand.

“You are in love with Seungcheol!”

“That does not matter! You love him! And he loves you.”

“He loves you, just like I love you!”

The room turns quiet. Jeonghan almost falters.

“What?”

Jisoo looks like he can’t believe himself either. His hands are shaking and he’s looking at Jeonghan as if he just broke everything. But there’s also determination in his eyes.

“I love you. And I love Seungcheol.” A new roll of tears appears on Jisoo’s face. “I love you both. How could I not? You are so enchanting, so charming, so funny. I always feel so light when I am around you. Like nothing matters but us. And Seungcheol... How do I even describe him? He is just so polite, so handsome, so true, so perfect. I just feel so safe around him. So yes, I am in love with you both, which must be some form of cruel joke, because you are perfect for each other, and I ruin everything good.”

“You do not ruin everything good! I love you so much it hurts because you make everything better. It drives me crazy to be without you. I cannot imagine how I will survive when you get married. And when you are with Seungcheol, I feel so happy because two such good and gentle people deserve each other. I love you both so much I don’t think I could ever be happy if you aren’t happy.” Jeonghan can’t keep it in. It feels like a million butterflies fly out of his mouth with his words. Like all his worries are disappearing.

Jisoo blooms in front of Jeonghan. His laugh is the lightest he has sounded in days. “What?” he says in full disbelief, but so light and airy.

Jeonghan moves to kiss him. He can’t stop himself; he does not care how improper it is. Jisoo responds quickly and desperately, but he can’t stop smiling. Jeonghan holds Jisoo's face in his hands, like the precious flower he is.

They part, panting, but Jeonghan has never felt it easier to breathe. Jisoo's eyes are lightly golden, omega color. Just a smidge. Jeonghan imagines his own eyes look the same.

“You love me?” Jisoo mumbles quietly to himself, as he holds onto Jeonghan’s hands.

“I love you,” he answers, so easily.

“And I love you,” Jeonghan says, tasting both his and Jisoo's tears on his tongue. “We are in love.”

Then Jisoo takes a step back, but not without holding on tightly to Jeonghan’s hands.

“And we are in love with Mr. Choi.”

Jeonghan squeezes his hands. “I thought you were past calling him that.” Jisoo's cheeks blush the most beautiful red. He also looks a little uncertain. “But yes, we are in love with Seungcheol.”

“And Mr. Choi is in love with you?” not giving up the title. Jeonghan heart swells.

“And you,” Jeonghan reassures. Jisoo’s face scrunches up in even more happiness. His eyes disappear when he smiles, looking like small moons. Jeonghan wants to kiss him again, so he does.

Later, they are lying in Jisoo’s bed. It’s quiet all around, as they lay engulfed in soft bedsheets. Jisoo is softly playing with Jeonghan’s hair. “What should we tell Mr. Choi?”

“The truth?” Jeonghan says, cuddling deeper into Jisoo’s chest. “That we are both in love with him and that we wish to go to the Queen to get permission.”

“Or?” He can hear the smile in Jisoo’s voice, a spike in his scent. He knows Jeonghan all too well.

_

Dearest gentlest reader,

The love triangle between Omega Hong Jisoo, Omega Yoon Jeonghan, and, of course, Alpha Choi Seungcheol has been the story of the season. And now it seems to have taken even more turns. This author wonders what must be going through Mr. Choi’s head with all the attention he is getting from the two most desired omegas. And after how hot and cold Omega Hong has been acting? Everyone surely remembers Mr. Ito’s wedding four seasons ago—the arguably biggest scandal of the year. Maybe that is what Omega Hong and Yoon are going for again. But only the queen knows how this will turn out.

Seungcheol feels like he’s going to throw up. Well, not literally, but it sure feels like it, especially when Jeonghan and Jisoo send him those looks like they are going to eat him up. And sure, Seungcheol would let them do that in a heartbeat, but that really isn’t the point here. He doesn’t understand this sudden switch-up. Just a couple of days ago, Jeonghan spent all his affection on Lord Thomas, and Mr. Hong, who had just spent weeks giving him attention, did not even dare to look at him. But now, they give him all their attention. Seungcheol wishes he understood what changed.

Also, Seungcheol is certain that something has changed. If they seemed like they were in their own world together, it now seems like they have their own universe—a universe Seungcheol would love to explore, plant beautiful flowers in, and bake the prettiest cakes. A universe he feels like he saw briefly that night at the ball before Jisoo ignored him for days.

Jisoo has apologized for that. So profusely and so earnestly. Seungcheol can’t even imagine not forgiving him anyway. Jisoo could probably kill him, and Seungcheol would thank him. (And even so, Seungcheol really did appreciate the apology.) But Jisoo did not explain why he and Jeonghan suddenly were everywhere Seungcheol was. And why, every time Seungcheol went over to court Jisoo, Jeonghan was there, only looking at him.

Seungcheol’s alpha likes it. Of course, it does. The two most beautiful omegas only looking at him. He is surprised his alpha isn’t more pleased. It feels overwhelming when both look at him, their eyes dark and scheming. It makes him feel special and maybe also a little scared.

Seungcheol is looking at them both right now. They’re in a deep discussion with Seokmin, who’s out for the first time. Not anything serious, just for fun. Seokmin looks so giddy at the attention, laughing along with them. Seungcheol is sure they would be great friends.

“Mr. Choi, do you want to dance?” Seungcheol's focus is interrupted by a cute omega girl. It must also be her first season out; she looks very young.

“Excuse me?” The omega doesn’t back down; she smiles even bigger at Seungcheol’s confusion. It is not improper to ask someone to dance necessarily—and especially not after Seungcheol notices who it is. He quickly straightens up.

“Miss Berges.” She is the daughter of a duke, a distant cousin of the queen. Seungcheol has met her quickly a few times. Normally, omegas don’t ask alphas to dance unless they are courting (or they are Yoon Jeonghan), but she is the exception to this rule. The Diamond of the season. “It would be an honor.”

Seungcheol writes his name on her dance card, and they walk out to the dance floor; her gloved hand feels wrong in his. She is very elegant and smells like roses. Seungcheol feels out of place next to her.

“Don’t worry, Mr. Choi,” she says after they have started dancing. “I am not here to try and steal you.”

“Oh,” he answers, a little dumbfounded. She giggles.

“Her Majesty is very interested in the possible elopement between you, Mr. Yoon, and Mr. Hong. You know, if I wasn’t here, she probably would have made one of them the Diamond of the season.”

“I think Her Majesty chose well,” he says, and Miss Berges giggles again. He tries not to think too much about the comment about the queen, Jeonghan, and Jisoo.

“You are just saying that so you don’t have to fight over those two.” Seungcheol can’t deny her that. He has kept them in the corner of his eye all night, scared that some alphas might try to take their attention. He understands all the alphas whose eyes wander over to them. They are beautiful sights, something that’s hard to look away from.

“So, what do I owe this pleasure?”

“I just wanted to talk to you, see what all the fuss was about.” That makes Seungcheol laugh. “I mean, you are very handsome, and you have quite the presence.”

“So, am I living up to your expectations?”

“Hmm, you’re quite boring to me. You seem easy to push over.”

“You would get along well with Mr. Yoon and Mr. Hong.”

“Then remember to invite me to the wedding.” Seungcheol can feel the heat in his cheeks. He chooses to ignore that comment; he doesn’t like how it makes his chest tighten.

The dance finishes, and they bow politely to each other. That was fun, but he longs to speak to Jeonghan and Jisoo. They are still over with Seokmin, probably protecting him. He feels warm at the thought of them getting along with his baby brother.

They smile when they see him walking over, but they also look tense.

“Brother,” Seokmin says, hanging on his arm.

“Are you having fun?”

“Yes, very much so.” Seokmin smiles his sunshine smile. It matches his golden suit. “Jeonghan and Jisoo make excellent company.”

“I could imagine.” He smiles at Jeonghan and Jisoo, but they are looking fondly at Seokmin. Their arms are interlocked tightly.

“Who were you dancing with?” Seokmin asks.

“Miss Berges, the majesty’s favorite,” he tries, teasingly.

“She is quite elegant,” Jeonghan says, without any warmth in his voice.

“And very beautiful too,” Jisoo continues. Neither of them is looking at him.

“She asked me to dance,” Seungcheol suddenly feels the need to defend himself. It doesn’t seem to work, as beautiful pouts appear on both of their faces. On the contrary, Seokmin’s face scrunches up in happiness.

“I will go find Mother; see you at home.” He squeezes Seungcheol’s arm as he leaves. Seungcheol feels left in the lion’s den. Something just feels off, and he doesn’t know what. Jisoo and Jeonghan don’t look different from the outside—well, except for the pout. But they have been pouting at him every time he leaves or focuses his attention somewhere else. This feels a little worse.

“Did I do something wrong?” Jisoo and Jeonghan look at each other, having a silent conversation.

“Why did she ask you to dance?” Jeonghan asks.

“Oh, she just wanted to know if what she read in Lady Whistledown is true.” Seungcheol tries to laugh it off. Seungcheol doesn’t know what to do with himself when he thinks about the prospect that they both might love him. That Lady Whistledown might be right. It makes him a little dizzy.

“Is it true?” Jeonghan asks. Jisoo seems shocked at his question. Seungcheol guesses this night isn’t going their way either. That seems to be a theme.

Seungcheol has no idea what he is supposed to answer. Yes? I am horribly in love with both of you, and I can’t quite think straight when I am around you? No? That lady Whistledown is just writing whatever might attract readers, and Seungcheol is extremely confused over the attention he has been getting from the two omegas. Both options seem wrong. On one hand, he can’t imagine confessing right here will end well. He is planning to talk to them about the situation, but this seems like the worst time. He has just gotten used to double the attention. On the other hand, fully rejecting the idea is sending the absolutely wrong signal.

His silence makes Jeonghan raise his eyebrows. Seungcheol feels trapped, his heart beating fast.

“I mean—“ he starts but clams up. He takes a deep breath, giving him some fake confidence. He is an Alpha, after all; confidence is a mask. Besides, Jeonghan and Jisoo will never confess or do anything about the matter. They’re omegas; it would not be proper. “I think this is a conversation for tomorrow’s callings.”

Both Jeonghan and Jisoo blush, which makes Seungcheol swell up. He has never known either of them to be speechless. After they stand in silence for a while, Jisoo and Jeonghan just look at him, and then at each other, they smile. Seungcheol has never seen them smile like that. It’s filled with relief, but with so much happiness, and Seungcheol can’t help reciprocating. If it wasn’t inappropriate, he would hold their hands, and kiss them silly, but he knows that can wait.

_

Seungcheol has only ever been to the Queen’s palace once. It was a boring affair last year, some wedding of some princess. The rooms are ginormous, and Seungcheol should know, as his father owns many mansions.

His hands are so sweaty, and his many layers are not helping. He has practiced his speech for the queen at least a million times. He was stubborn; he didn’t want Jeonghan and Jisoo to help. He wants to do this for them.

Queen Charlotte looks quite pleased to see him. She is smiling? Seungcheol has never seen her smile before. She is the scariest alpha Seungcheol has ever seen. Her presence is just so huge and influential. She is holding one of her many Pomeranians in her arms, petting it lightly.

“Choi Seungcheol, I have been expecting you,” she says, her voice filling the whole room. Seungcheol stands up straighter, chest puffing slightly out. He will not be scared; he will convince her to let them marry.

“Your Majesty,” he bows deeply. She smiles even more. Seungcheol knows of the queen’s nature; it has always reminded him of Jeonghan. Boredom is the worst fate she could imagine.

“Ask me the question,” she says, demanding.

“Your Majesty, may I ask for your permission to marry Mr. Yoon Jeonghan and Mr. Hong Jisoo?”

“Why, Mr. Choi, should I allow you to do that?”

“Because we are in love.” But before Seungcheol can continue this speech he has planned in his head, the Queen interrupts him.

“Love is so boring; I have let many marriages come to be because of that. And your story is not special, Mr. Choi.” The smile is now gone; she seems annoyed by Seungcheol’s answer. “So, give me a good reason.”

“A good reason?” Seungcheol asks in disbelief before he remembers who he is talking to. He quickly adds, “Your Majesty.”

The Queen pets her dog. “Yes, Alpha Choi Seungcheol of York, a good reason. An entertaining reason. Mr. Ito was fun four years ago.” Seungcheol can feel his anger rise. He needs to calm down; he is standing in front of the Queen.

“Your Majesty, we are in love. I cannot imagine living without them. I don’t see a better reason.”

“You’ll get over it,” the Queen says. She seems to think the conversation is over. “Mr. Hong will just sail home to America, and Yoon Jeonghan will surely find someone. You could just marry one of them, then it would be over.”

“I cannot just marry one of them, Your Majesty.” Seungcheol fights his alpha's anger. “I love the two of them, and they love me. To deny us this would destroy something rare and precious.”

The queen seems to dwell a little on that, so Seungcheol continues before she can deny him again. He will not lose them.

“And with all due respect, Your Majesty, love may not be the most exciting reason to want to marry someone, but it is the only real one that matters. I know many see it as unconventional, but I have known for a long time that I belong to both Mr. Yoon Jeonghan and Mr. Hong Jisoo, and I am lucky that they feel the same way.”

The Queen raises an eyebrow. A challenge. Seungcheol is too competitive to back down. He stares her right in the eye.

“Mr. Choi,” the queen starts. “You came here alone.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

“Why?”

“I don’t quite understand, Your Majesty.”

“Usually, the couples come together, trying to convince me, letting me see their chemistry,” the queen seems disgusted at the whole concept.

“Mr. Yoon and Mr. Hong have been through enough judgment. As omegas, everything they do is judged. I could not imagine putting them under more scrutiny. I knew that this would not be easy, despite it being such an easy answer.”

The queen seems quite pleased with that.

“I remember seeing them at the presentation this spring. They are both very beautiful.”

“They are,” Seungcheol agrees easily. Seungcheol has never met anyone as beautiful as them.

“They also don’t seem very delicate.”

“They are not. But just because someone is tough doesn’t mean that they can’t be treated with love and delicacy.”

The Queen gives him a strange look. It’s quiet again for a while as the queen puts her dog down.

“You are an interesting character, Mr. Choi. I am almost sad to see you out of the social season.”

Wait, what?

“Your Majesty?”

“You have convinced me. I hereby permit you to marry.”

When Seungcheol returns to the Yoon household, Jisoo and Jeonghan are almost waiting at the door. Seungcheol knows that Baron and Baroness Yoon are in the drawing room, waiting just as anxiously. They only need to see his face before they know his answer. Jeonghan immediately throws himself at him, Jisoo not far behind.

He hugs them as tightly as he can. He can feel Jisoo crying out of happiness. Seungcheol can feel his own eyes water as well. Seungcheol doesn’t think he has ever felt this happy.

None of them notice the Yoons walking into the hallway. They are caught in their own universe.

_

Dearest gentle reader,

The deal is officially closed now, and I envy anyone who was not invited to the beautiful ceremony. I know many had their doubts, but seeing these three together confirmed to this author that the Queen made the right decision. And seeing them try a couple's dance as three people was definitely the highlight of this whole season. I send all my congratulations to the future dukes.

And do not worry. I believe that Alpha Choi Seungcheol's younger brothers, Omega Choi Seokmin and unpresented Choi Seungkwan, might provide much excitement and talk for the future seasons.