Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It had been more than half a year since the group of friends last gathered. Although the excuses varied between work, adult responsibilities and limited free time, the main reason was that Ryuusui Nanami, the alpha host who usually organized every gathering, had married Ukyo Saionji and the two decided to take a boat and disappear off the radar for a couple of weeks—weeks that eventually turned into months on their extended honeymoon.

Six months later, out of nowhere, a message in the group chat caught everyone's attention.

From: Ryuusui Nanami. | Hey! September 27th, 9:30 PM. Let's meet at that barbecue restaurant downtown.
From: Ryuusui Nanami. | My treat.

And with that message, everyone cleared their schedule for that day. The last time they had seen each other was for their wedding, so it felt natural to reunite and catch up on everything that had happened during the months that had passed.

When the night of the reunion finally arrived, it didn't feel as though months had gone by, the familiarity in their interactions revealed many years of friendship. Though at first, not everyone got along or clicked, life's coincidences brought them together: Gen met Tsukasa from a TV show, Tsukasa knew Minami through an interview, Minami met Ryuusui through work, Ryuusui knew Senkuu through funding, Senkuu met Chrome through university and Chrome... well, the connections continued. Fate had seen to it that many of them ended up not only as friends but, in some cases, much more.

“I propose a toast.” Gen's voice rang out as his spoon tapped against his glass. “To our dear host, who never lets us down.”

The others nodded; the alpha was swimming in money, his presence radiated luxury and enjoyment of life's finer things. While many saw this as arrogance or lavish excess, his close friends knew better. More than anything, Ryuusui wanted those around him to live comfortably, ensuring that none of his friends would ever face financial difficulties. After all, what good was money if not to spend it? And what better way to spend it than on a fine meal shared with the best company—an investment in the happiness for the soul.

As conversations flowed, Kohaku gathered the courage to ask the question on everyone's mind. “Ryuusui, why did you bring us together?”

“Can't I just gather my friends to reminisce about the good old times?”

“There's no need to beat around the bush, Ryuusui.” Ukyo said, taking a sip of his beer before continuing. “If you want, I'll make the announcement.”

The alpha gave Ukyo a sideways smile, his intense amber-colored eyes locking onto his husband. “Please, do me the honor.”

“Well, Ryuusui and I have been discussing the possibility of starting a family, you know.” Ukyo began. His words dragged on, as though trying to soften the inevitable. “You know... kids and all that.”

A tender sound escaped Yuzuriha's lips, followed by Ruri's joyful squeal.

“If you want kids, why are you drinking alcohol?” Chrome asked while finishing his bite.

Kohaku, sitting next to him, gave him an undisguised elbow jab. “He doesn't mean they're expecting now, idiot.”

The group erupted in laughter and soon the place was once again filled with lively conversations, new questions arose as they delved into the couple's decision.

Ryuusui cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention. “Although I'm not a man who usually dwells on the past, growing up, I had no one but my brother.”  Despite the alpha's ever-present smile, there was a faint touch of melancholy in his voice.  “And even then, it wasn't long before our paths diverged." He paused. "I wouldn't want my child to have a lonely childhood, so I'd like them to have the chance to make friends.”

“Ryuusui, you make it sound like you're trying to buy the friendship of children that don't even exist yet!” Ukyo laughed, his tone lighthearted despite the odd phrasing of Ryuusui's intentions.

“What I mean,” Ryuusui clarified, smiling, “is that I'll take care of your children's education so they can all attend the same school. That way, they'll grow up together.”

What Ryuusui was desperately asking for was companionship, as he wished to spare his loved ones from the unbearable chill of loneliness he once felt.

Senkuu, who had been quietly observing, leaned in to whisper into his partner's ear. “Without the burden of tuition, it's much more convenient to reproduce.”

Gen barely managed to stifle the laughter rising from his chest. Since when had the scientist become so witty? “Are you trying to suggest something, dear Senkuu?”

The beta simply shrugged, taking a bite of beef and chewing slowly, avoiding any further comment. He wasn't going to give in to Gen's flirtations, but he also wasn't going to give him the satisfaction of being right. Keeping silent always drove his partner crazy.

"Ahem!" Taiju cleared his throat, quickly standing from his seat, eager to capture the group's attention. "Actually, we have something to announce as well." His gaze radiated intense determination, something very characteristic of him.

Yuzuriha, seated beside him, rose with a soft smile, her eyes filled with warmth as she glanced at her husband before turning to address their friends. "I hope you don't mind if we steal the spotlight for a moment."

"Not at all!" the host raised his glass.

The brown-haired man took a deep breath, gathering his courage. "Yuzuriha and I, we..." He trailed off as his eyes began to well up with emotion, his voice catching. "We just found out recently."

The prolonged silence left the group puzzled, their curiosity piqued by the growing suspense. What was happening? Was something wrong? An illness, perhaps?

"Five weeks ago, Yuzuriha found out..." Tears began streaming down his face. "The doctor told us..."

Before the room could be consumed by concern, Yuzuriha stepped in, her voice filled with calm and joy. “I'm five weeks pregnant.” Her words, soft yet filled with excitement, hung in the air. Her cheeks flushed a deep red, glowing with happiness as she spoke. “We just found out recently and thought tonight would be the perfect moment to share the good news.”

In an instant, the restaurant burst into life with laughter and applause as everyone celebrated the announcement. The atmosphere in the place shifted instantly into joyous celebration, as the news of Yuzuriha's pregnancy sunk in. Each person, both individually and together, congratulated the couple. It was an unexpected surprise that brought nothing but happiness.

Taiju and Yuzuriha were the group's golden couple, admired by everyone. They had been together for nearly a decade, and married for two years. Senkuu often joked that they had been in love forever, having witnessed their childhood romance blossom into something deeper and more profound over the years. The bond between them was undeniable, and everyone agreed—they were perfect for each other, needing no alpha-omega bite to prove it.

☼

Back at their home, Senkuu and Gen decided to head straight to bed. The apartment they had shared for less than a year was nothing extraordinary: a kitchen, living room, two bathrooms, two bedrooms, and a small room so tiny it felt more like a closet, where they stored Christmas decorations and various trinkets that Senkuu refused to throw away.

As usual, each took their side of the bed, attempting to fall asleep. Or trying to, given Gen's constant shifting.

"Hey, you still up?"

A smile could be heard in Gen's voice, betraying his inability to sleep. "Barely. What do you want, dear Senkuu?"

"Nothing, just checking on you." Senkuu wasn't the most emotionally assertive, and lacking the ability to pick up on pheromones like alphas or omegas, he had learned to initiate conversations to let Gen ramble and ease his mind.

Grateful for the invitation, Gen sighed before voicing what had been keeping him awake. "Nothing major, just reflecting on tonight..." He turned to face Senkuu, whose silhouette lay still, staring at the ceiling. "It's crazy, right? Taiju and Yuzuriha having a baby. I mean, they've always been the 'ideal couple,' but still... it's hard to believe they're taking that next step."

"Not really. It's basic human biology." Senkuu's rational response was characteristically blunt. "Two people get married, they reproduce, and they pass on their genetic material. It's the most natural thing in the world."

"Ah, ever the romantic." Gen sighed dramatically, theatrically even. After a few moments of quiet, he let his mind wander. "But seriously, did it make you think about... us?"

Senkuu finally peeled his gaze from the ceiling to glance at his partner. "What do you mean by 'us'?" He asked as if they hadn't been living together for months after years of a relationship that defied simple definitions. "I assume you're talking about how their baby won't be born with a fully developed prefrontal cortex, so it'll be about 25 years before it can properly contribute to society."

Gen chuckled, feeling like the fool. "There's the Senkuu I know and love, always thinking ten steps ahead." He shifted, now gazing at the endless expanse of the ceiling. "But no, I meant... do you ever think about starting a family?"

Senkuu turned his body slightly to face Gen's delicate profile. "You know I'm not the type to think about that sort of thing."

"You didn't answer the question, darling."

Senkuu took a moment to consider. "Do you think about it? The whole family thing? Raising a kid in this messed-up world?"

"Well, if you put it that way, it sounds dreadful." Gen turned to meet those sharp crimson eyes studying him. "But... I don't know. Watching Taiju tear up tonight? Seeing Yuzuriha so happy? It made me wonder what it'd be like—having something we made together. Something that's a little bit of both of us."

Silence fell between them. It wasn't uncomfortable, nor was it entirely peaceful. They allowed themselves to linger in the gravity of the conversation.

"Scary thought, huh? A mini version of me running around." The darkness of the room couldn't hide the faint smile spreading across the omega's lips.

"Terrifying," Senkuu replied without missing a beat. "Imagine the chaos. A little manipulative genius with your face and my brain? World domination before it even hits puberty."

Gen laughed, covering his mouth with his hand. "Now that you mention it, maybe we should reconsider..." His dark eyes softened with affection as they settled on Senkuu. "But in all seriousness, I think it's something worth considering. Not now, maybe not ever, but... it crossed my mind tonight."

"I don't know, Gen. We're already dealing with enough challenges as it is." Senkuu's voice took on a rare tone of genuine conflict. "Parenting isn't exactly a science experiment you can control. Too many variables, not enough data. Besides, I'm not wired for that 'emotional attachment' stuff like Taiju is."

"Oh, please." Gen playfully tossed a pillow at Senkuu's face, drawing a smile from the beta. "You say that, but I've seen you care more than you let on." His tone was teasing, but his affection was real. "I'm not saying we have to decide anything now. I just... like the idea of us building something together, no matter what that is. And don't pretend you're not attached to me. We both know better."

Senkuu chuckled, closing his eyes. "That's your talent: making me think about things I'd usually dismiss." The warmth in his voice was unmistakable. "But alright, we'll leave it open. Theoretical, for now."

"You mean like a hypothesis?" Gen arched a brow, satisfied with the answer. "I'll take that." Settling back into the sheets, as if he hadn't just broached one of the most contentious topics in adult relationships, he dramatically bid Senkuu goodnight. "Sweet dreams, my dearest scientist. Until we meet again in the lab of life."

"You're incorrigible. Go to sleep."

"Only if you do first."

☼

The night had finally quieted down. Ryuusui was driving calmly through the deserted streets of the city night, faint music from the radio playing as they headed home.

"Well, that was a success." He chuckled, running a hand through his blond hair. "I knew they'd all go for the whole 'let's raise our kids together' idea."  

Smiling with a special tenderness, Ukyo gave his alpha a gentle look. "I wouldn't call it subtle, but you got the message across." There was a pause, then Ukyo decided to ask something that had been on his mind since the last green light. "But was it really about the kids, or were you just looking for a way to keep everyone close?"  

Ryuusui tilted his head in an ambiguous gesture, tapping the steering wheel. "Both, I suppose." He admitted, though there was a softness in his voice that was rare for him. "You know me, Ukyo. I'm a man of ambition. I like to keep the people I care about close, safe, happy. And I'll admit... I don't want our kid growing up lonely, like I did. But it's more than that."

Ukyo's eyes softened, understanding where Ryuusui was coming from. "I figured as much. You've always had a way of gathering people, but it's different now, isn't it? This isn't about business deals or adventures. This is... more personal."

"Exactly. I can sail around the world, collect treasures, build empires—" he turned to Ukyo for a brief moment, his expression unusually serious. "—but what's the point if there's no one to share it with? If I'm not with the love of my life?"  

Ukyo gave him an inquisitive look, studying his husband's facial expressions. There was a deep-rooted vulnerability behind the confidence, something Ryuusui didn't show to many.  

Ryuusui laughed, but it was a low, almost sad sound. "I'm used to getting everything I want, but you can't just buy time and people, can you?"  

There was a long pause as Ukyo carefully considered his words. Then, he reached across the car, placing a hand on Ryuusui's, a small but comforting gesture. "You don't need to hold the world on your shoulders." He said softly, his fingers brushing Ryuusui's skin. "We'll be together, my alpha, with or without kids." He gave him a soft smile, one filled with reassurance. "I'm not going anywhere."  

Ryuusui's usual bravado softened at Ukyo's words. He took Ukyo's hand in his and kissed it gently while still keeping his eyes on the road. "See, that's why I married you." He smirked, the tension in his shoulders easing. "You always know how to keep me grounded."  

"And you know how to keep me on my toes." The omega chuckled quietly, before his tone turned more thoughtful. "I think you're right, though. About having something to anchor us." His gaze met Ryuusui's, clear and steady. "If we do have a family... I think we'll be just fine."

Ryusui grinned, his confidence returning. "Well, of course we will. We're the perfect team, after all." His intense gaze sharpened, accompanied by a playful raise of his thick eyebrows. "Let's sail through this next adventure together, Ukyo. No matter where it takes us."  

Ukyo laughed at the maritime jargon they often used in the privacy of their relationship. "Always, captain."  Ryuusui kept his hand on the gearshift as they made their way home, while Ukyo rested his hand on the skin of his beloved.

Chapter Text

There was a café at the end of the main avenue that the girls loved—and by girls, I meant Yuzuriha, Ruri, Nikki, Kohaku, Gen and Ukyo, who had been accepted into the group due to their status as omegas.

The meeting was for two reasons: Yuzuriha's advanced pregnancy and the thousands of questions flooding the group chat every three days. She had promised to answer questions in exchange for a cup of tea and all the muffins she could eat.

"Sorry for being late." Gen walked elegantly through the cozy coffee shop, removing his coat before sitting next to those who had already ordered a pot of tea and snacks.

"Don't worry." Nikki made room beside her. "We didn't arrive that long ago."

The mentalist wasted no time and went straight to the topic that brought them together: “Have you already interrogated Yuzuriha, or do I still have the chance to ask a few questions?”

The woman in question couldn't help but laugh; she expected nothing less from her best friend's partner.

"Shouldn't we first check how she's doing, though?" Ukyo clasped his coffee cup with both hands. “How far along is the little one?”

“Twenty-four weeks.” Yuzuriha answered cheerfully, caressing her belly.

“It's incredible how fast time flies.” Ruri remarked in a calm voice, showing deep reflection in her words. “It's wonderful how life develops in the blink of an eye.”

Kohaku, sitting beside her, looked at her with a half-smile, holding back from asking when she and her partner would have children.

But Gen had no intention of staying silent. “When are you and Chrome going to have a child?”

Blushing, the blonde fidgeted with her hands. “We haven't really talked about it yet!” She let out a nervous laugh. Even though she had been in a relationship for years and had loved her partner her whole life, such topics still made her feel like a lovesick teenager.

“And when are you two?” Nikki jumped to her friend's defense, trying to shift the attention.

Yuzuriha's gaze fixed unapologetically on the omegas, both pretending to be too occupied eating to respond. Ukyo chewed slowly, and Gen sipped from an empty cup.

“Wait a second, that's right.” Kohaku scrutinized the men in front of her. “It's been about five months since our last get-together, and we still don't have any updates on your lives.”

Gen, unable to keep pretending to drink tea, was the first to venture a response.

“It's not really a recurring topic in our lives.” he replied casually but with genuine honesty. “Senkuu has other priorities, and so do I. I'm still trending on social media, so I need to make the most of my time while my illusion shows are profitable.”

Yuzuriha's gaze moved from Gen to Ukyo, who had just finished swallowing his muffin.

“I think Ryuusui is a bit ahead of me. I mean, we do want to start a family, but we haven't discussed the timing yet.” Ukyo scratched his cheek, feeling a bit uneasy. “Besides, I haven't even thought about going off birth control yet.”

The girls remained silent, but their expressions while sipping tea said everything that needed to be said.

“Don't look at me like that!” Ukyo defended himself. “He's fine with waiting until I'm ready.”

“Nobody's judging you, dear.” Gen commented.

“But you're all thinking it.”

“The only witch and priestess who can read minds here is Ruri.” Yuzuriha smoothed things over, knowing it was a delicate topic. As much as she wanted to keep asking questions, she knew the conversation would happen naturally in time.

The table erupted into laughter.

“And let me remind all of you that nothing and no one can fully prepare you for the changes your body goes through to create a tiny person.” Yuzuriha sighed, genuinely exhausted. “Think carefully and be ready before you take the plunge.”

Now all eyes were on the expectant mother, who had captivated the entire table's attention.

“Did your skin stretch?” Kohaku asked bluntly, without much tact.

“Isn't that kind of obvious?” Nikki crossed her arms, intrigued by the answer.

“Did my skin stretch? Girls, I feel like my organs have been rearranged.” She replied in a lighthearted tone, making the gravity of her words easier to digest. “I wish it were like in the movies, limited to cravings and nausea. This kid seems like a future soccer player with all the kicking.”

“Alright, time for some real talk: what's been your weirdest craving?”

“Pineapple ice cream with soy sauce.” Yuzuriha set down her cup, ready to drop the revelation. “Taiju, bless his heart, insisted on eating it with me, and for two weeks, he was right there, eating ice cream with soy sauce.”

The expressions around the table varied, as though it sounded plausible, yet imagining the taste was far from pleasant.

“And!”

All attention returned to Yuzuriha again.

“The hormonal changes didn't just affect me—Taiju's behavior changed too.”

Those words caused a stir at the table, with the tea now forgotten as questions began flying, bombarding the soul of the party.

“One question at a time, girls.” She smiled, pausing to nibble on a cookie. “From what I've heard, hormonal changes vary from alpha to alpha, but Taiju became really fearful overnight.”

“Fearful?” Kohaku's eyebrows shot up in disbelief. “That's hard to imagine.”

“Did he suddenly become afraid of the monster under the bed?” Gen mocked.

“Sort of. He wanted to be with me even to chop vegetables, seeing danger everywhere.” Yuzuriha made gestures with her hands, emphasizing the situation. “He even looked up ways to prevent nightmares.”

That craziness was too much for Ukyo, who coughed on the muffin he was eating.

“Ukyo's choking!”

“I'm fine, I'm fine.” he reassured them after taking a sip of his drink. “It's just too funny to think of Taiju, the Taiju we know, being afraid of bad dreams or a potato peeler.”

“Right? He's not the type to sniff around like a domestic animal, but he became super picky about the scents on my clothes.”

Yuzuriha answered question after question. The idea of the man in a relationship exhibiting changed behavior wasn't so far-fetched, but hearing firsthand accounts of behavior that outdid even soap operas left everyone at the table wide-eyed.

“Can you imagine Senkuu acting irrationally?” Kohaku asked. “The great scientist turned into a scared lab rat, afraid of his own shadow.”

Not even Ruri could hold back her laughter, attracting curious looks from other customers in the café.

“Oh, please no. I really hope I can keep my autonomy.” The sincere look of terror on Gen's face said more than his words. “I can't imagine him following me to the bathroom—we're not that kind of couple.”

“Speaking of the bathroom, I need to go.” Yuzuriha said, carefully standing up to avoid bumping into anything with her swollen belly as she walked away from the table.

"Senkuu is a Beta, so maybe it won't affect him the same way it does an Alpha, like Taiju.” Ukyo placed a hand on Gen's shoulder, trying to calm his friend, who was still horrified.

“And what about Ryuusui?” Ruri continued the thread of conversation her sister had started. “He's an Alpha. What do you think awaits you, Ukyo?”

The Omega's expression wasn't one of horror or surprise, but rather of contemplation. Would there really be any strange behavior from his husband? Someone with such an intense and unique personality? As he pondered the questions, he couldn't conjure up a mental image, but soon realized that the curiosity was endearing: Ryuusui acting fearful? Gentle? Perhaps quieter, more cautious, reaching out to touch his belly, speaking to it, telling him some story from the high seas.

He let out a sigh.

“I can't really imagine it, but I think it would be fun to see.”

“Of course, you ended up with the eccentric millionaire who's head over heels for you, so nothing must seem strange.” Nikki's voice sounded dreamy, as if she were talking about one of her romance books novels. “Maybe he'll propose to you again or do something crazy like gift you an island.”

The girls laughed.

“What did I miss?”

“We were talking about Ryuusui.”

“Oh, right. How is he? We didn't see his car pull up.”

“He had to travel for family matters.” Ukyo was grateful for the change in the conversation's direction. “He's probably in Liverpool or London by now, wherever his family decided to hold their fancy meetings.”

Everyone noticed a hint of disdain in his voice, and someone had to ask the question.

Kohaku had the courage to do it. “Does he still keep in touch with his family? I mean, we know a little about how obsessed they are with money and social status. Ryuusui doesn't seem to fit into that world.”

“Well, it's complicated.” The white haired man  tilted his head, trying to find the right words that wouldn't sound disrespectful. “Even though he doesn't get along with the main family, as long as his brother is involved, he'll continue to support him.”

“That's crazy. I can't imagine my father telling me I'm not worthy of appearing in the family portraits.”

“No kidding, and the mother's even worse. She thinks being British makes her special.” Ukyo spoke with confidence, letting out what bothered him about his in-laws. “Always talking about money, about being part of some duchy somewhere, about how her great-great-great-great-grandfather has a photo with Queen Victoria.” He huffed, wondering why his husband still bothered to meet with people who didn't appreciate him and looked down on him.

“The rich are crazy.” Kohaku concluded.

“Obviously, I admire the person he became.” The aura of discontent shifted to one of tenderness. “His whole childhood, they looked down on him, and then during his teen years, they treated him like a freeloader.” A soft smile touched his lips as he gazed at his reflection in the tea. “He could have turned into one of them or wasted his money on vices, but his priorities were elsewhere.”

“Yeah, finding a sweetie who liked the sea, had strong arms and an angelic face was one of them.” Gen's comment lightened the mood. “He had his priorities crystal clear.”

Everyone laughed, but Ukyo wasn't going to let himself be humiliated like that.

“And what about Senkuu? His priority was science, and then suddenly you tricked him with some magic riddle.”

“Are you still bringing that up?” Gen covered his face with both hands. “Can't you just forget that day ever happened?”

“Never,” Kohaku took Ukyo's side. “It was way too iconic when you introduced us to Senkuu—whom we already knew—and we asked him what he saw in you, and he said, 'this is not the trip to buy Legos you promised me,' looking very offended.”

Gen still felt embarrassed about that day, more so because Senkuu had made it seem like a high betrayal to promise him legos and then take him to a social event.

“That was a great day.”

“What a small world this city is; half the group already knew each other in some way.”

The conversation paused when a groan from Yuzuriha interrupted the table, taking a moment to catch her breath.

“He's kicking hard.” She smiled as best she could. “Let me warn you, at some point, you'll feel like someone is kicking your organs from the inside, and you won't like it, yet you'll still love that little person.”

Her heartwarming words marked the end of the gathering. The sisters hurried to pay the bill so Yuzuriha wouldn't have to spend her own money.

In a gesture of interested kindness, Gen offered to drive Ukyo home. It wasn't long after they got in the car that the topic both of them had been avoiding suddenly surfaced.

“If Yuzuriha is facing challenges during her pregnancy, I can't imagine what a male pregnancy must feel like.” Gen didn't hesitate to speak his mind.

“God, yes. I don't even want to think about how hard it would be for my body to adapt to something like that.” Ukyo let out a long, slow breath, as if releasing the very tension that came with imagining the ordeal. “I mean, it'd probably be worth it—losing muscle, losing strength, all that's temporary. But how I'd handle the contractions, the kicks… I can't even begin to picture it.”

Gen, ever the clever one, decided to dig a little deeper, twisting Ukyo's words like a key in a lock. “So, are you already imagining your body adapting? Starting to wonder what it'd be like?”

Ukyo parted his lips, almost instinctively, but no answer emerged. It was as if the question had caught in his throat, the weight of the reality behind it stifling the words before they could form.

“I, on the other hand, still can't wrap my mind around what it would do to my body.” Gen continued his monologue. “I mean, I've got this delicate, slender figure that I've grown rather fond of. I still revel in the attention, you know? I'm a public figure, still drawing crowds to my magic shows, still basking in the glow of social media fame. A baby just... doesn't fit into that picture.”

“But you've thought about it.” Ukyo noted softly, his tone inquisitive but laced with empathy, as if he knew what came next.

Now it was Gen's turn to fall silent.

“We haven't even hit thirty yet. We still feel young; it's normal to want to enjoy the present.” Ukyo murmured, almost as if he were reassuring himself as much as Gen, his gaze fixated on the red light ahead. “Personally, I love my job. And I don't want to give up the thrill of our spontaneous sea trips, the freedom of dropping everything and sailing off whenever we want…” He paused, his lips curling slightly as a wistful expression crossed his face. “But… I don't know, maybe one day it wouldn't be so bad to trade a bit of that freedom, that comfort, for something new. Something… unexpected.”

“You say that because you know Ryuusui would be with you every step of the way.”

“Wouldn't Senkuu?”

The question hung in the air for a few moments, the silence filled only by the news on the radio.

“Yes, and no. We have different priorities. He loves me, and I love him, but we divide our time differently.” Gen pressed his lips tightly together. “It's not the right time to seriously consider starting a family yet.”

“Are you afraid that Senkuu would dedicate more time to his career as a scientist than to being a father?” Ukyo's question cut through the air with precision, direct and perhaps a touch brutal, but there was no malice in his tone. He quickly followed up, a small smile tugging at his lips. “You know what I think? I bet Senkuu would turn into one of those typical, overly proud dads. You'd find pictures of the kid stuffed into every pocket and wallet he owns.”

Gen's laughter erupted before he could stop it, so loud and unrestrained that it swallowed up the hum of traffic and even drowned out the chatter of the radio.

“Oh, God, no! I'd die of embarrassment. Just imagining him rambling on and on about a hypothetical kid is already too much for me.”

Ukyo, grinning now, added fuel to the fire. “He'd probably say something ridiculous like, 'Since they learned to walk, they've taken precisely thirty-five consecutive steps before wobbling and forty-seven before hitting the floor.'”

“Noooo!” Gen groaned through his laughter, taking a sharp turn a little faster than intended, still caught up in the absurd mental image of a data-obsessed Senkuu meticulously cataloging every step his child took.

Both omegas fell silent after laughing, imagining possible situations, fantastic events, coincidences similar to what Yuzuriha had shared about her pregnancy. Were they just getting caught up in the moment, in the glow of their shared conversation? Was it hormones playing tricks on them? Was it the sweet cotton candy scent in the air, or were they both excited about a potential pregnancy?

“We reek of sappy omegas,” Gen remarked.

“Not me, I'm wearing patches.” Ukyo defended himself, tilting his neck to show his patch.

Gen parked the car outside the mansion where Ukyo lived, marking the end of their conversation.

“We've arrived, safe and sound,” Gen announced with a playful glint in his eyes, casting a mischievous glance at Ukyo. “Be sure to tell Ryuusui I delivered his precious sweet bun back home safely. He owes me a favor for looking after you.”

Ukyo chuckled as he unbuckled his seatbelt, making sure he hadn't forgotten anything. “I'll pass along the message… in your name.”

But as he stepped out of the car, he paused, lingering by the open door. A flicker of hesitation crossed his face, something unspoken hanging in the air between them.

“Did something happen?” Gen's voice was curious, light, but probing.

Ukyo shook his head, though the momentary silence spoke otherwise. “No… nothing.”

Gen tilted his head, raising an eyebrow. “Aaaare you suuuure?”

Ukyo let out a small sigh, almost imperceptible, before turning back toward Gen. “There's still a conversation we need to finish.”

Gen's curiosity piqued, his smile softened. “And what conversation would that be, if I may ask?”

Ukyo's voice dropped a little, thoughtful now, as if weighing the gravity of his next words. “About contraceptives. I want to be fully informed before I stop using them.”

A beat of quiet passed, the weight of Ukyo's statement settling in the space between them. It wasn't just a casual remark—it was a step toward something bigger, something that trembled with anticipation. Gen's mischievousness faded for a moment, replaced by something more sincere.

With a knowing nod, Gen offered one last smile before Ukyo stepped away into the soft glow of his home's lights. The engine hummed to life again, but this time, there was a different current in the air, as if their journey was only just beginning.

Chapter Text

Senkuu had stopped fully paying attention to the article he was reading several minutes ago, distracted by the muffled noises coming from the other room of their apartment. The scientist absentmindedly moved the mouse cursor over the PDF document, nodding slightly to himself: he wasn't comprehending anything he was reading. A loud thud of a heavy object hitting the floor forced him to peel his eyes away from the monitor.

“Oi, Gen. Are you okay?” he called out, turning his chair towards the study door. His fingers tapped on the desk, a telltale sign that his curiosity was winning over his usual restraint.

There was no response from the other room.

Instead, bare footsteps approached with an irritated pace toward the shared working space. Gen, who had just crossed the doorway, entered with a look that wordlessly explained his frustration. His usually pristine bicolored hair was now a mess, as if an avalanche had robbed it of its grace and charm.

Senkuu brought a hand to his chin, red eyes narrowing in contemplation as he weighed his options, calculating whether to address the issue in front of him or to attempt distracting his irate partner.

“Did you fix your hair?” He went for the worst option, but one that would be the most exhilarating.

The danger in the mentalist's beautiful smile was enough of a response to that foolish comment.

“My dear Senkuu, my favorite scientist, the fizz in my cola, when are you going to throw out the trash from the storage room?” He asked, his voice deceptively light despite the mounting irritation underneath.

Senkuu's scarlet eyes darted around, trying to find something else to look at to avoid facing the judgment directed at him. “Trash?” He lied blatantly, raising an eyebrow as if the very concept of trash was foreign to him. “I don't recall storing any trash in our home. That doesn't sound like something I would do.”

“Senkuu, there are half-empty jars in there. They've been sitting for years.” Gen's smile wavered, but his eyes never left the scientist's face. 

“They're not trash because they're not empty yet.” Senkuu argued, his tone earnest, as though convinced that logic could save him from the mentalist's wrath.

“Oh, really?” The mentalist crossed his arms, tilting his head slightly, his hair following the motion in a disheveled wave. His gaze turned sharp. “And what about the boxes with plastic and metal parts?”

“Spare parts for inventions.”

“What inventions?” Gen's voice dropped to a dangerously calm level, an eyebrow arched in silent challenge.

“The ones I'm about to invent.” Senkuu countered, lips curving in a smug smirk, fully aware of how flimsy his argument was. The scientist's fingers twitched in anticipation, as if ready to shield his face in case the magic-wielding hands of his partner decided to strike.

Gen sighed, nodding, closing his eyes behind long, dark lashes. The displeasure in his eyes hinted at the brewing storm beneath his calm façade.

“Darling, there are things you never use. Just get rid of them.”

“Incorrect: there are things I haven't used yet.” Senkuu's grin broadened, and he leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms with a sense of finality as if his argument was indisputable.

The skillful hands accustomed to performing magic tricks nearly turned homicidal, clenched into fists, ready to strangle the stubborn scientist who refused to budge, continuing to hoard junk and scraps in the only room available for storage in their apartment.

“Rent a storage unit.” He demanded, his tone firm, not giving any room for negotiation.

“In this economy?”

“Then clear out my apartment of your clutter!" Gen's voice rose an octave, his frustration bubbling over. "I almost got knocked out looking for Christmass decorations!”

Senkuu couldn't help but burst out laughing at his exasperated partner, knowing full well that Gen had every right to be upset about the mess in the tiny three-square-meter room. There was something endearing about the way Gen tried to maintain his composure while navigating their chaotic shared space.

In the end, the laughter managed to defuse the tension, and Gen sighed heavily, rolling his eyes but not entirely immune to Senkuu's charms.

“Haha, all fun and games, but seriously, you have to do something about your stuff.” Gen crossed his arms. “We're running out of space.” He paused for a moment, then added, “Correction: we're running out of my space.”

Senkuu raised an eyebrow. “We're managing fine.”

Gen took a step forward, his irritation softening into something more sincere. “Senkuu, I'm not trying to pick a fight. I just…” He hesitated, carefully choosing his next words. “I don't want to be stepping over each other's stuff. Is that too much to ask?”

Senkuu, ever perceptive, saw right through the direction of the conversation. Before diving beneath the surface of Gen's words, he wondered if this was all planned or just a topic that emerged at the right moment. He decided to test it: “I think what you really want is a place that can grow with us, am I right?”

To his surprise, Gen's sharp blue eyes gleamed with a hint of bemusement, as if the topic had caught him off guard.

“I… I wasn't trying to say that.” Gen hesitated in his response.

“But you want it, don't you?”

In a gesture of doubt and acknowledgment, Gen leaned against the doorframe. Was there any way to dodge a topic once his partner's obsessive curiosity had planted a seed in his mind?

“There's no need to rush.” He gestured with his hands, letting his vulnerability show in the intimacy of the room. “I guess it would be nice to have more space, you know — a room to rehearse my shows and store my props, another to sleep together, and one more where you can pile up as much junk as you want.”

“With a garden to plant tomatoes?”

“Please, I don't even like getting my hands dirty.” The comment managed to draw a smile from the one who was baring his soul. “Though I'm not the type to plant tomatoes, I like the idea of watching you do it.”

The mentalist offered a small, sincere smile, receiving in return that beautiful scarlet gaze that seemed to vibrate with excitement at a new goal to aim for.

“I'll start looking for houses on the market.” And with that, he minimized the tab he was working on and started browsing real estate listings.

“Wait, now?!”

Senkuu, with his ever-pragmatic mindset, was already considering the logistics. “There's no better time than the present.”

“Why do I feel like this is going to involve work somehow?” And, although his tone hinted at exhaustion for the tasks his partner would likely assign him, he couldn't help but imagine what their future home might be like—a space built not just for experiments and rehearsals, but for them.

After a month, the search for a new home had proven to be a bigger challenge than expected. It wasn't just the real estate agencies: it was also about trying to meet the checklist both of them demanded for their future home.

Where in the city did they prefer to live? What type of property? What materials should make up the structure? Should interior or exterior design take priority? Did they want a blank canvas or something partially furnished? And most importantly, what budget did they have for this future home?

All of that, on top of Senkuu going to the trouble of triangulating the areas where Gen's favorite restaurants delivered food—a gesture so romantic that, when he talked about it, the scientist's ears turned pink from the mentalist's constant teasing.

The weeks dragged on, and both Senkuu and Gen found themselves feeling increasingly drained by the relentless search. They had visited a dozen properties, inspected countless listings online, and exchanged emails with more realtors than either cared to count. Yet, none of the houses seemed to check all their boxes. If the location was perfect, the layout was too cramped. If the space was ideal, the materials were subpar or the design uninspiring.

One evening, after another fruitless day of viewings, Gen slumped down on the couch, letting out a sigh that seemed to drain every last bit of energy from his body. “Why is it that everything we find has to be either a fixer-upper or a glorified shoebox?”

The scientist didn't respond; he simply sat down next to his partner, eyes fixed on his phone. Now he understood better than ever the jokes about “polygamy being a postmodern invention to afford housing” because the best options were miles over their budget.

Gen sighed, shifting his legs to rest over his partner's lap. “At this rate, it'd be easier to build a house than to buy one.”

“For that, we'd need a high initial capital, land use authorization, and available labor, counting ourselves and probably Taiju as workers.” Senkuu commented, typing replies to university emails on his phone.

A dramatically exaggerated sound of distress escaped Gen's lips, more than tired of the whole situation. “What if I trick Ryuusui into gifting us a house?”

“I thought we'd already decided not to con him, again.” Senkuu set his phone aside, gently rubbing Gen's feet.

Before the conversation could continue, they both burst out laughing. What kind of friends were they?

“No, but seriously, what on earth are we going to do? I'd already been fantasizing about our bedroom!” Gen squirmed on the couch, curling up to let his foot graze Senkuu's inner thigh. “Oh, woe is me, my poor soul! How errible-tay! No comfort, no happiness, nothing to fill the emptiness inside me.”

Senkuu took a deep breath as he felt that mischievous touch through his clothes; his partner knew exactly how to make his mind go blank and derail his train of thought.

Senkuu took a deep breath, feeling the deliberate brush of Gen's foot through the fabric, each mischievous movement igniting sparks along his nerves. Gen's playful caress was perfectly calculated to disarm him, pulling him right into his partner's rhythm and making his thoughts stumble.

“Oh my! My foot slipped.” Gen said with feigned innocence, his audacious gaze showing anything but.

Not one to back down, Senkuu seized Gen's other leg, sliding the sock off with a single tug and tracing his fingers along the arch of his foot. His touch was firm but careful, massaging along the sensitive spots he knew would make Gen shiver. “Getting bored of house-hunting already?” he murmured, letting his thumb press deeper into the soft pad of Gen's foot.

“Quite the opposite, my dear Senkuu.” Gen replied, his voice dipping, each syllable drawn out. He leaned into the touch, eyes glimmering with mischief as Senkuu's hands lingered. “I'm merely getting a head start on what we'll do once we have our home.” He whispered, toe brushing against Senkuu's thigh with a teasing pressure that left little to the imagination.

And there wasn't much more dialogue to write, as both bodies tangled together swiftly, kissing fervently while they adjusted into a less awkward position that would eventually land them on the floor. Senkuu would groan after hitting his head, and Gen would laugh in his face, only to let out a helpless sigh as kisses trailed across the sensitive skin of his neck.

The carpet felt both soft and rough beneath him, heightening Gen's senses with each kiss, each caress sending waves of pleasure as rough hands undressed him piece by piece. The living room began to fill with the scent of desire and sweat, a familiar aroma that Senkuu's dull beta senses had learned to recognize. Gen's chest vibrated gently with a pleased purr, savoring the skilled mouth trained to tease every sensitive spot on his neck.

“Shall we take this to the bed?” Senkuu managed to ask, his voice edged with the last trace of reason.

“Do you think we'll make it that far?”

“Good point.” He laughed, diving back in to leave soft bites along his partner's torso.

Gen lifted his knee, pressing it between Senkuu's legs, eager to keep pace and far too impatient to wait any longer.

Senkuu hissed, quickly adjusting to slip off his pants, prompting Gen to follow suit. As they finished undressing, before Senkuu could ask for any preference, the omega was already on all fours, arching his hips to tease him with a playful cruelty.

It didn't matter how many years they'd been together; Gen's allure never failed to leave Senkuu breathless. “You're going to be the death of me.”

Gen brought a hand to his entrance, sliding a finger in slowly. “I hope my name's in your will.”

The scientist leaned in to help, slipping in his index finger to ease the way, melting into the familiar warmth he'd soon feel even deeper.

Senkuu's fingers moved with deliberate, practiced care, grazing along Gen's warm, sensitive skin. The texture was silken and yielding, giving way under each gentle press. Gen's body reacted instinctively, a soft shiver rippling over his spine as Senkuu's touch grew slightly firmer, his fingertips exploring with a mix of tenderness and purpose.

The contrast of Senkuu's slightly rough fingertips against Gen's smooth skin created a sharp yet delicious friction, igniting every nerve. Gen's breathing deepened, becoming slower and heavier with each subtle movement. The warmth between them was palpable, and as Senkuu continued, the connection pulsed, intensifying with every careful, lingering caress.

Senkuu's rhythm grew steady, his fingers adapting to the shifting tension, adjusting to match Gen's response. The sensation was both grounding and electric, filling the room with a quiet heat that spoke to their mutual desire.

After a long, satisfying moan, the omega decided the foreplay had gone on long enough. "Enough, now I want you to ride me." he commanded.

And how could Senkuu refuse? He grabbed a cushion from the couch to prop it under one of Gen's knees, knowing from past experience that it might leave marks but lacking the sense to avoid all the collateral effects of their passion.

Without further delay, the scientist slid his length between the omega's soft skin, massaging the pale curves. The view was beautiful, but it only became perfect when he began to enter him, inch by inch, melding into the warmth and tightness. Gen, eager to release the tension built up over weeks, pushed his weight back, pressing Senkuu deeper, clenching his muscles to embrace him as tightly as possible.

"Damn," Senkuu's rough voice filled the room, caught between the urge to lose himself entirely or to remember that a perfect square trinomial is factored as the square of a binomial. But with Gen's impatience, it was clear that giving in to pleasure was the only option.

With nothing else clouding his mind, Senkuu deepened his pace, each thrust more intense than the last as he drove himself closer to release. His groans slipped past his control, brushing hotly against the nape of Gen's neck. In response, Gen arched beneath him, a high-pitched moan escaping as he murmured, voice thick with need, “Bite me.”

Senkuu paused, only for a heartbeat, just long enough to position his teeth over the sensitive cervical glands, feeling the warmth pulse beneath his lips. Then, resuming his rhythm, he bit down with a blend of tenderness and fervor.

“Yes, just like that—don't stop,” Gen breathed, a shiver of pleasure-laced pain curling through him as Senkuu's teeth sank in a little deeper. His fingers dug into Senkuu's back, grounding them both as he sighed. “Mark me, own me.”

Struggling against restraint, Senkuu bit down harder, his thrusts coming faster, more insistent, until he felt the intense warmth of release flood through him, filling Gen as he surrendered to the consuming tide of their shared climax.

As Senkuu's hand gripped his hip, anchoring them both, Gen's back arched, and his nails pressed into the carpet, the sharp pleasure tipping him over the edge. A shudder tore through him, his body seizing in the intense release, leaving him gasping as he rode out each pulsing wave, making a mess beneath their bodiesm. Senkuu's warmth still hold him close, kissing the back of his neck, their shared heat echoing in the aftermath.

"Bed?"

"Bed."

Cleaning will have to wait.

☼

The next morning arrived calm and clear—blessed be Sunday, a sanctified day of rest. The soft light filtering through the curtains woke the scientist first, who decided to clean the semen stains scattered across the carpet as best as he could. As he crouched down, he noticed one of his knees was scraped from the previous night's activities, a quiet laugh escaping his lips as he regained enough energy to prepare breakfast.

By the time Gen deigned to wake up, the table was already set and Senkuu was halfway through his avocado toast, eating while standing beside the chair, holding a cup of tea in his right hand. When had he gotten used to eating like a horse? Maybe it was a cultural thing of his japanese-chilean boyfriend.

As Gen sat down, he invited Senkuu to chat. “Did you sleep well?”

“Almost.” Senkuu replied, finishing a bite. “We still haven't solved the housing issue, and I've got a scraped knee.”

Gen burst into laughter at the last remark, preparing his coffee without sugar. “I've got both knees scraped. I wonder whose fault that is?”

Senkuu had already raised his hand in a defensive gesture to argue why the friction between the carpet and Gen's skin was out of his control when his phone began to vibrate. Curious, the scientist picked it up, seeing his adoptive father's name in the notifications.

“Byakuya.” he answered.

“Senkuu! I'm so glad you picked up, son!” Byakuya's animated voice was audible even from Gen's seat. “How are you? How have you been? How's your research going? How's your boyfriend?”

The barrage of questions was relentless, as any loving father would ask his one and only cherished son.

“All good, the research is going well. We recently received new images and data from the ALMA observatory that we've been working on.” Senkuu replied, taking a small bite of his avocado toast and nodding before continuing. “I think I'll head to Chile next winter—the work on the ELT and GMT is moving ahead quickly.”

“ELT? GMT?” Gen asked, tilting his head.

Senkuu covered the phone's microphone to whisper, “Extremely Large Telescope and Giant Magellan Telescope.”

“Incredible! Don't forget to recommend this old scientist for an internship!” Byakuya exclaimed with undeniable joy, already imagining himself walking through the Atacama Desert, oxygen tank in hand, climbing up to the observatory. “I can't wait for the largest telescope ever built to be completed!”

“Sure, I'll put in a good word for you.” Senkuu replied with a tone that sounded sarcastic, though he always kept his father in mind during his research and projects but Byakuya didn't have to know that. “So, was that the only reason you called?”

“Ehhh, no?” Byakuya's voice wavered. “I called because my fatherly instincts told me you needed help.”

“Instincts? Are you serious?” Senkuu frowned, glancing at Gen, who was silently laughing while eavesdropping on the conversation.

“Yep. Is Gen there? Ask him if there's any problem—he's more attuned to his surroundings.”

“Good morning.” Gen chimed in politely, stifling a laugh in his voice. “I'm not sure if there's a problem; maybe the crossroads of house-hunting woke your intuition.”

“Mmmmmm…” came the thoughtful hum from the other end of the line.

“No house feels right.” Senkuu cut in. “If the price is fair, the construction is shoddy; if the space is decent, the design is dreadful; and if the deal is attractive, the size is barely livable.”

Gen sighed, thinking back to the countless houses they had toured. “Modern homes really are a mystery to me.” he admitted.

“Do you really need a brand-new, modern house?”

The simple question hung in the air, leaving both men silent. It hadn't even crossed their minds to consider a pre-owned home.

☼

When they arrived at their new home, they stepped inside together, carrying the first two items that felt most significant: a plant that had grown alongside their relationship and Senkuu's beloved computer tower, the brain of countless late-night projects and shared dreams. The rest of their belongings remained in the car, and the larger appliances would arrive later with the moving truck.

Setting the items carefully on the floor, they stood side by side, letting the moment wash over them as they took in the space. The house, built in the early 2000s, bore the charm of a suburban home straight out of a family sitcom: a dining room large enough to host friends, and several other rooms waiting to be given purpose. Upstairs, there was a cozy master bedroom, three smaller rooms brimming with potential, and a shared bathroom. The house even had an attic, which hadn't been mentioned in the property details, and a basement that was suit for either a laundry area or a scientific workspace.

The house wasn't perfect, nor was it luxurious despite its size. They had gotten a great deal on it due to faulty electrical wiring—a problem Senkuu could easily fix in a few days if he managed to convince their friends to help in exchange for a few pizza bribes.

The house wasn't perfect, but it was theirs. They had poured their savings into it, each had a copy of the front door key and both would undoubtedly argue over who got the key to the back door.

Senkuu reached out, his fingers brushing against Gen's before enveloping his hand with a tenderness that felt almost foreign coming from him, giving his lover a subtle smile that spoke volumes without words.

Well-versed in reading the mind of his beloved scientist, Gen replied: “Welcome home.”

Chapter Text

Time slips through our fingers like sand. Today marks the birthday of Taiju and Yuzuriha's son, and no one wanted to miss such a special occasion.

While this was the boy's third birthday, during his infancy birthdays parties had been the perfect opportunity for friends and family to show their support to the new parents. Alongside toys for the child, they would often gift essentials like diapers, blankets, or even, rather extravagantly, a new washing machine.

“We're so glad you could make it, Senkuu.” Taiju said, giving his best friend an enthusiastic pat on the back.

“You say that like we haven't seen each other in a month.” Senkuu replied with a small smile, handing him a box wrapped in gift paper.

Small footsteps echoed through the room as the little boy with chestnut hair hurried over to greet the newcomers.

“Ñenku.” The child said, pointing at him and lifting his hand with a confident seriousness that mirrored his father's demeanor.

“Oh my stars! Look how much you've grown my dear!” Gen exclaimed with genuine affection, arranging his long hair before bowing to greet

Crouching down to the boy's level, Senkuu ruffled his hair in a friendly gesture. “How are you, small tree?”

The little boy enthusiastically nodded and began listing the things he had done that day with the limited vocabulary at his disposal.

Ukyo and Ruri entered from the kitchen, carrying snacks to keep Yuzuriha from spending her entire day tending to the guests instead of taking a break from the exhausting life of a mother.

“We didn't hear you arrive from the kitchen.” Ukyo said apologetically, setting down the snacks.

“Is Nikki coming?”

“She can't make it. She's competing in another city but visited us last week and gave our little one an adorable duck costume.” Yuzuriha said, smiling from ear to ear as she recalled how adorable her son looked in the outfit.

“A shame. We don't talk much since she left the group chat.” Gen admitted.

Kohaku suddenly appeared, cutting into the conversation. “She'd still be in the chat if you didn't send so much adult content. Nikki's sensitive and wants to preserve the innocence she has left.”

The silence shared by Ukyo, Gen and Yuzuriha was comical, as all three looked away, guilty of sending each other offers for adult toys, clothing and not-so-family-friendly memes.

“Is Minami coming?” Ruri asked as she finished pouring juice. “I mean, she has a tight schedule.”

“She didn't confirm, but if she does come, Tsukasa will be with her too.”

The group of women and omegas took a sip from their glasses, their faces turning dramatically pensive. While Minami had once been close to Ruri and Yuzuriha, time had changed their bond. They were still friends, just not as close as they used to be—no longer part of the "wolfpack" they'd called themselves in the group chat.

“Cheers.” Gen declared. “To the she-wolf we lost along the way when she found her mate.”

And as if summoned, Taiju went to the door to greet the very couple they'd been discussing. The hostess quickly stepped forward to welcome the newcomers as the rest of the group dispersed.

“Happy birthday.” Tsukasa said gently, his imposing figure softening as he handed the little boy a gift with a kind smile. “Here's to many more.”

The child shook Tsukasa's hand before placing the box on the floor and opening it immediately, revealing a beautifully crafted set of wooden stacking blocks.

“Long time no see, dear Tsukasa.” Gen greeted with a polite smile from the other side of the room.

“Almost a year.” Tsukasa replied. "I see you've let your hair grow, it suits you."

Minami quickly joined the conversation, clutching Tsukasa's arm with a firm grip. “Good to see you, Gen.” she said cautiously. “Where's Senkuu?”

“Over there, playing with the little one.” Gen pointed to the corner where Senkuu was showing the boy a gardening set he had gifted him, catering to the child's interest in plants and animals.

The conversation would have likely continued in a predictable, polite manner had Ruri not shifted the topic toward the hostess, asking Yuzuriha about her experiences as a mother over the past years.

“I'd be lying if I said it's been easy. You all know how my social life took a hit, and I was more exhaustion than person in those first years.” Yuzuriha sat on the couch, inviting the others to join her. “But I can't deny that my little boy has filled my life with incomparable happiness. Every day is an adventure. I never get bored.”

Ukyo brought a tray of cookies to the group and sat down on an empty chair.

“Oh, hello. I didn't see you there.” Minami greeted politely. “Did you come alone?”

“No, I'm here with my husband.” the omega said vaguely but kindly.

“I see.”

“How's Ryuusui?” Tsukasa asked with genuine interest. “Where is he?”

“We've been well and... I'm not sure where he wandered off to. He was here just a few minutes ago.”

Meanwhile, Senkuu and the little boy were sneaking off to the backyard with the new gardening set, where Ryuusui and Chrome were waiting.

“Did you bring the materials?” Senkuu asked knowingly. Having a wealthy friend who didn't hesitate to spend money on whims had become a significant advantage for their occasional schemes.

Ryuusui snapped his fingers before replying. “Of course. François has already delivered everything we need.”

“All right, kiddo.” Senkuu whispers conspiratorially. “Today, we're conducting an important scientific experiment. Ever heard of a volcanic eruption?”

The child tilts his head, then giggles, clutching a plastic cow in one hand while enthusiastically digging into the dirt with his shovel. Ryuusui, who didn't hesitate to get his clothes dirty, crouches beside him to help with the excavation. Chrome was already on the ground placing animals.

"This is gonna be so baaaaad!"

Together, they begin constructing a volcano out of mud, complete with plastic figures strategically placed around it. Senkuu gives careful instructions to his 'workers', who are thoroughly entertained crafting the crater at the top with the kid.

“This is where the magma chamber goes.” Chrome explains, pointing to the center. “Very scientific stuff, if I say so myself.”

The boy nods solemnly, clearly understanding none of it but happily packs mud into place.

By the time the volcano is complete, Taiju and the others wander over, curious.

“Hey, what are you two up to—” Taiju starts, but stops short as Senkuu dramatically pulls out a small bottle of baking soda, vinegar, and a pinch of red food coloring Ryusui's recent purchases for this very occasion.

“Behold!” Senkuu declares, pouring the concoction into the mud volcano.

A bubbling, frothing “eruption” spills over the sides, eliciting a delighted squeal from the little boy. He claps his hands excitedly, sending dirt flying into the air—and directly onto Yuzuriha's pristine shirt.

“Senkuu!” She groans but eventually sighs with a smile.

“What?” Senkuu smirks, brushing dirt off his own clothes. “This is education. Pure, unadulterated STEM.” The boy cheers, waving his muddy hands as Senkuu proudly mutters. “Success. The next generation of science is secure.”

“Oh-ho!” Taiju exclaims, overly excited by the experiment and blissfully unaware of the mess. “Where did you get all those new animal toys?”

“I gave them to him!” Ryuusui announced with a broad smile, ruffling the little boy's hair. “What's a volcanic eruption without proper scenery?”

Ukyo, who had just arrived, crossed his arms knowingly. It was likely Chrome who came up with the idea, Senkuu who handled the preparations and Ryuusui couldn't resist being persuaded to buy everything necessary for the experiment.

“I'd like to know who's cleaning up this mess.” Kohaku said with a smile directed at the little one. “Not you, adorable thing. You should go get changed now—it's time for cake.”

“Cake!” the boy exclaimed excitedly.

The afternoon had passed so quickly that night arrived unnoticed, reminding the group that adult life barely left them an hour and a half after showering to enjoy a bit of free time, which almost always boiled down to lying in bed with their phones in hand.

You have new messages to reply to.

Gen snuggled into the blankets, wearing an oversized hoodie to ward off the cold but refusing to turn on the heating—they'd use the heating after paying off the mortgage!

From: Ukyo Saionji | Your little one is so adorable, I really didn't want to stop holding him

From: Ruri Ishimura | right?

From: Ruri Ishimura | none of my students seem as cute as that little guy

At the other side of the city Ruri chuckles quietly as she typed on her phone, her eyes darting between the screen and the stack of essays she's procrastinating grading.

From: Yuzuriha Ogawa | you pair of wolves were trying to steal my little sweetheart! >:c

From: Gen Asagiri | Something tells me there are people here who want a sweetheart of their own

Yuzuriha sent a surprised kitten emoji

From: Ruri Ishimura | I'm a primary school teacher, your comments don't faze me

From: Ruri Ishimura | I hear that kind of remark at least once a month

From: Ukyo Saionji | It fazes me

Ukyo sent a blushing emoji

Gen jaw dropped, unable to reply faster than Ruri nor even search for a proper emoji.

From: Ruri Ishimura | I KNEW SOMEONE SMELLED LIKE A ***** IN HEAT

From: Ukyo Saionji | Don't expose me, witch

From: Ruri Ishimura | priestess

From: Yuzuriha Ogawa | i wanted to ask what happened between Gen, Ukyo and Minami but this topic is way more interesting

Yuzuriha sent a popcorn-eating gif

Yuzuriha sat cross-legged on her bed, one hand holding her phone while the other ruffled her son's hair that was sleeping beside her.

From: Ukyo Saionji | No, it's nothing. It's just... every day I feel more certain that I want to have a child

From: Ruri Ishimura | my instincts tell me someone made an impulsive decision

Ruri sent a crystal ball emoji

From: Ukyo Saionji | Stop torturing me

From: Ruri Ishimura | speak, sinner

From: Ukyo Saionji | Nothing's happening

From: Ukyo Saionji | It's just... I stopped taking hormones

From: Ukyo Saionji | A few days ago

From: Ruri Ishimura | and you, Gen? When's your turn?

From: Gen Asagiri | don't pressure me,, I'm not ready

Ruri sent an inquisitive cat gif

From: Gen Asagiri | I'm being exposed here

From: Yuzuriha Ogawa | i don't want to be a buzzkill, but how long were you on hormonal contraceptives?

From: Ukyo Saionji | Six years of combined oral contraceptives and about 19 months of heat inhibitors

Upon this revelation, every member of the chat froze in place. As if an invisible thread connected them across the miles, they straightened up simultaneously, tension crackling through the unseen bond they shared.

From: Ruri Ishimura | tell me you stopped taking them gradually

Ruri's fingers hovered over her phone screen, her lips pursed in a disapproving line. She adjusted her glasses, tilting the phone slightly as if a better angle might change the audacity of Ukyo's response.

From: Ukyo Saionji | Don't ask questions you already know the answers to

From: Ukyo Saionji | Before being an omega, I'm a man

Ukyo hesitated before hitting send, momentarily second-guessing the tone of his words.

From: Yuzuriha Ogawa | that's a terrible excuse for your bad decisions

From: Gen Asagiri | Sweetheart, quitting such a heavy load of hormones has nasty consequences

From: Gen Asagiri | And who's going to deal with your mood swings, hmm? Your dog-brain husband? Dear Ryuusui doesn't deserve such punishment

Gen snorted as he typed, lying sideways on his bed with his phone held above his head, careful to not pull his long bicolor hair. He paused for dramatic effect, his thumb hovering before tapping send, already imagining the look on Ukyo's face.

From: Ukyo Saionji | How hard could it be? I doubt it's worse than military service

From: Ruri Ishimura | you're comparing this to military service??? Oh, Ukyo, sweet summer child

From: Yuzuriha Ogawa | someone get him a crash course on hormone withdrawal symptoms before it's too late

From: Ukyo Saionji | You're all overreacting

From: Ukyo Saionji | Effects are temporary

From: Gen Asagiri | Studies don't cover how unbearable you're about to become, my dear

From: Gen Asagiri | My sincere condolence to your mate

Gen stretches his legs, his socked feet sticking out from under the covers, typing one-handed while the other clutches a half-eaten bag of chips.

From: Ruri Ishimura | don't act so innocent Gen, you're next! and we all know it

Gen nearly chokes on a chip, hurriedly wiping his hands on his hoodie before typing a dramatic response

From: Gen Asagiri | Lies! I'm too young for such commitments!!!!!!

From: Yuzuriha Ogawa | too young? Aren't you similar age as Ukyo?

From: Gen Asagiri | Details, details. I'm emotionally young, okay? Still 29!

Gen rolls onto his side, pretending to pout, though no one is there to see it

From: Ukyo Saionji | Embrace your thirty-ness, you're closer to the big number than ever

Ukyo's fingers moved quickly, hitting send with a flick of malice, one hand gripping a lukewarm cup of yerba mate dried leaves. He was 32 years old.

From: Ruri Ishimura | all jokes aside, you know we're here for you and we'll be there in the babyshower

From: Yuzuriha Ogawa | definitely, even if it's 2 AM and you're suddenly craving pickles and ice cream

From: Gen Asagiri | Pickles and ice cream? Yuzuriha, are you projecting?

From: Yuzuriha Ogawa | shush! i'm being wholesome

From: Ukyo Saionji | Thanks, everyone. I'll keep that in mind

Ukyo glances at the clock, leaning back in the bed as a genuine smile spreads across his face. He felt more at ease; the casual and close treatment from his friends reminded him that he had a support network that would be there when he finally had his child.

The sound of the bathroom door opening  snapped him from his thoughts. Setting his phone aside, Ukyo shifted his attention to the damp silhouette of his partner stepping out of the steam-filled shower.

“Hey, handsome.” Ukyo murmured with a sly smile, savoring the sight of his alpha's back, where the faint marks of his nails mingled near the mate-bite scar that symbolized their intimate bond.

“Hey, jewel." Ryuusui quickly replied, holding a towel around his waist with one hand and clutching his pajamas in the other. “Who were you texting so much? I could hear your nails tapping against the screen even from the shower.”

“Really?” Ukyo lifted his hand, staring at his trimmed nails in mock confusion—he was sure he'd trimmed his nails recently.

“No.” Ryuusui's boyish laugh escaped, his canines flashing in a playful grin.  “I just made that up to see your confused face.”

Ukyo's smirk deepened: there it was again—that endearing goofiness he couldn't resist, his husband's playful loyalty akin to that of an overexcited puppy. As much as it was embarrassing to admit, Ryuusui embodied the “dog-brain boyfriend” archetype: an alpha utterly devoted, eager to commit, full of energy, and brimming with enthusiasm that would howl and bark for his mate.

Without a word, Ukyo reached out, his fingers catching the edge of Ryuusui's towel. He tugged it sharply, making Ryuusui stumble to grab at it, the pajama falling to the floor.

“Nice gun you've got there, big boy.” Ukyo purred, his tone dripping with mischief as his eyes trailed over Ryuusui's now-exposed form. “Mind if I play with it?”

The omega's audacity sent a rush of heat to Ryuusui's face, a rare blush blooming on his cheeks as he fumbled to cover himself. “Aren't you satisfied after what we did this morning?”

“Satisfied? Oh, absolutely.” Ukyo's voice dropped into a husky murmur as he leaned closer, brushing his lips lightly over the alpha's navel. His hands drifted, fingertips grazing the ridges of Ryuusui's taut abdomen before curling around his hips. “But that doesn't mean my appetite's gone. I'm starving, Ryuusui—ravenous.”

A shiver ran through the alpha at the omega's touch. Without hesitation, Ryuusui abandoned all pretense of modesty and slipped beneath the covers, the dampness of his hair clinging to his skin. He knew well enough there was no denying Ukyo when he got like this.

“Who am I to deny you dinner, treasure of my sea?” Ryuusui's voice was low, strained, yet tinged with amusement as he beckoned Ukyo closer.

“Good boy.” Ukyo whispered, a devilish grin tugging at his lips as he straddled Ryuusui's hips, his fingers tracing slow patterns across the alpha's chest. He leaned down, their lips meeting in a fervent kiss that left them breathless. The friction of fabric against skin quickly became intolerable, and Ukyo wasted no time in shedding the barriers between them.

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From: Yuzuriha Ogawa | gen!!! ask senkuu for the hormone withdrawal symptoms

From: Gen Asagiri | Right away!

Yuzuriha's message was the perfect excuse to go demand some attention this late at night. The mentalist strolled through the house until he found his partner playing video games on the computer.

“Trying to take back Constantinople?” Gen teased upon noticing Senkuu's NASA-tier computer running Age of Empires II.

The scientist only chuckled, saving his game before setting his headphones aside and crossing his arms. “What do you want to ask?”

“Me? Ask?” Gen feigned innocence.

“Yes. Every time you walk in tiptoeing with that smile on your face, I know you're about to ask the most convoluted, existential, or downright absurd question you could come up with.”

Gen plopped down on the purple beanbag chair reserved for him in that room. “In my defense, crab immortality is pretty fascinating.”

“Sure.” Senkuu rolled his scarlet eyes. “Now, what's the question?”

“For your information, Yuzuriha's the one who wants to ask you something.” Gen tied his long hair into a loose ponytail, pausing dramatically before providing some context. “She's curious about the side effects of heat inhibitors and their prolonged use.”

“How prolonged are we talking?”

“Six years of COCs and about twelve months of heat inhibitors.”

“She did what to herself?” Senkuu blurted.

“Not her—Ukyo.”

“Oh. Ah.” Senkuu ran a hand through his hair, taming it to match gravity while trying to stifle a laugh. “Let's put it this way—if the body is a lab and hormones are volatile chemicals, then the lab would be on fire.”

“Errible-tay!” Gen replied melodramatically.

“No shit.” The chilean-japanese scientist leaned back in his chair, gearing up for infodump; something Gen had long since grown accustomed to. “While M-Omega contraceptives have improved, their side effects are similar to regular female contraceptives. What's often left out is thatwhen pairing MΩ-COCs with heat inhibitors the body will need a ‘detoxing’—should involve not just a gradual dosage reduction but also a diet that helps synthesize the enzymes needed to regulate the MΩ-hormonal cycle properly.”

Gen nodded attentively, intrigued not only by the gossip-worthy topic but also by the practical implications such information could hold for future decisions.

“Enzymes work alongside the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, a regulatory system that is particularly susceptible to disruption following prolonged exposure to heat inhibitors.” Senkuu explained, his tone shifting into one of academic precision. "These aren't designed to stop heats but rather to postpone them.” By this point, Senkuu Ishigami had transitioned into a full-blown scientific exposition, a mode his partner was more than familiar with. “A regular omega cycle includes three to four heats a year. The function of inhibitors is to synchronize one cycle with another, effectively extending the duration between episodes. This often stretches the standard four-day period to six—or occasionally even eight—at which point the prolonged interval may begin exerting adverse effects on the male body.”

“And how does that differ from female cycles?” Gen inquired.

“Females possess more robust reproductive systems and better constitutions, having undergone evolutionary refinement to optimize their cycles.” His voice was neutral, as though addressing the most elementary of biological principles. “The ability of omega males to conceive represents a statistical anomaly—an evolutionary outlier, if you will. Consequently, only a marginal subset of the male population is capable of sustaining a pregnancy through to term.”

“Which is why most omega pregnancies end prematurely.” Gen reasoned.

“Precisely.” Senkuu's lips curled into a subtle smile at Gen's deduction. “It's also the reason male pregnancies are classified as high-risk. In the majority of cases, they terminate spontaneously during the implantation phase without ever being detected.”

Gen visibly recoiled at the thought. “Yikes. That sounds horrible.”

“Not in the least. The process is entirely asymptomatic—you wouldn't even notice.”

Unsurprisingly, Senkuu failed to grasp the emotional undertones behind Gen's reaction.

“So… what's going to happen to Ukyo?” Gen returned the subject to the original question while playing with his hair.

“Headaches, irritability, insatiable hunger, probably abdominal cramps, and the overwhelming urge to fuck like a wild animal.” Senkuu's voice gradually dissolved into laughter. “I'm texting the eyebrow king to tell him that a sports drink might just save his life.”

“Ryuusui's young. I think he'll manage.”

Senkuu shook his head in disagreement, falling silent as if there was something he preferred to leave unsaid while typing out a message.

“Is there any chance Ukyo could get pregnant?”

“Right now? None.” Senkuu set his phone aside and turned his full attention to Gen. “The male omega body requires several weeks to recalibrate before the endometrium returns to a state conducive to implantation. Even after that, the likelihood of conception remains relatively low.”

“How low, exactly?"  Gen shifted in his seat, crossing and uncrossing his legs before leaning forward "Hypothetically, if I were to stop using my contraceptive hormonal patch, how long would it take for my body to reset?” His fingers fiddled absentmindedlythe tip of his hair as he spoke, voice lighter than his expression.

Senkuu raised a hand, his fingers twitching in that familiar gesture as he ran rapid calculations in his mind. “It would take approximately 18 to 29 days for hormonal stabilization. Following that, the probability of conception would be around 6% per cycle for male omegas between the ages of 30 to 35.”

“Only 6%? That's ridiculously low!”

“Comparable to the fertility rates of women over forty—roughly 5%,” Senkuu replied matter-of-factly.

“And yet, we were all taught in school that omega men were practically ticking time bombs of fertility and should constantly fear pregnancy.”

“It's not entirely inaccurate,” Senkuu conceded. “Fertility peaks between the ages of 15 and 25, reaching around 14%. However, what's often overlooked is that the majority of those pregnancies result in early, spontaneous miscarriages before they're even detected.”

Gen stood up from the beanbag, stretching his arms over his head. “Enough info for one night, dear Senkuu.” After a cat-like yawn, he turned his dark eyes to his partner. “Let's go to bed.”

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From: Senkuu Ishigami | Electrolyte drinks

From: Senkuu Ishigami | Thanks me later

Chapter Text

"Do you have a free schedule for february?"

"Let me check." Gen took his phone, confirming information he already knew. "Fortunately, I have nothing planned." His sharp eyes observed Senkuu, searching for clues that would reveal what idea had occurred to his partner. "Why the question, dear Senkuu? Are you taking me out on a date?"

Nothing could have prepared him for the whirlwind of events that followed: two plane tickets for a flight of over twelve hours long, instructions to pack both winter and summer clothing (since midday temperatures reached 32°C while nighttime dropped to 2°C) and a rushed visa application for the coming weeks.

Byakuya saw them off with his chest swelling with pride: his son was part of the construction and supervision project for the Extremely Large Telescope and the Giant Magellan Telescope. Once that human marvel was completed, Senkuu is goint to be one of the scientists working to expand the limits of human knowledge at the GMT.

Once they landed at Santiago de Chile's international airport, Gen almost hugged the ground after experiencing turbulence while flying over the Andes Mountains. It didn't help that, mid-flight, he had been told that if an earthquake occurred, he shouldn't panic—it was just a common occurrence. How errible-tay!

"Where are we going now?" The two-toned-haired man observed the clear sky for a moment before hiding behind a sunglasses and a hat.

"To eat." Senkuu stored the luggage claim ticket. "We have plenty of time before our flight to La Serena."

The journey was silent; Gen watched as Senkuu's eyes wandered outside the window and smelled him at ease. What he knew about his partner's childhood in this country was that both of his parents, who were Japanese, had migrated to work at the national observatory before his birth. They had passed away when he was only five years old. With no other relatives, Senkuu grew up as an orphan until Byakuya decided to adopt him two years later, intrigued by the fact that the child unfailingly went from school straight to the national observatory every day.

Of course, Gen only knew this because Byakuya had told him—Senkuu wasn't the kind of person who spoke nostalgically about the past—to him, his compass always pointed toward the future.

And yet, here they were. Senkuu walked as if he knew the city by memory (which he probably did), taking Gen out to eat, ordering from the menu in spanish and then leading him through tourist attractions the omega wanted to visit.

At the end of the day they were back at the airport, preparing for their flight to the north and an overnight stay at a hotel before the real adventure began the next morning.

Adventure, yes, because neither of them knew the exact route; Senkuu had insisted on creating his own itinerary to ascend from the beach to 2,540 meters above sea level in a single day. Gen couldn't help but feel a tinge of anxiety as the day progressed and the hour of their bus departure to the telescope approached.

They carried light backpacks as much as possible, but even so, they had oxygen tanks, water bottles and warm jackets while dressed in summer clothes.

"Are you sure we need this clothing?" The older one wiped the sweat off his face with a handkerchief. "I can't imagine wearing fleece in the middle of summer."

Senkuu smirked. "Once we're up there at night, the temperature will drop so much we could freeze."

As always, nothing he said was truly reassuring.

"Does it really have to be so high and remote?" Gen felt uneasy as they got off the bus at the first of four stops before reaching their destination, reeking of spicy vinegar.

"And how else would we get over 300 clear nights a year?" The beta downed a bottle of water in one gulp, breathing the dry desert air. "We have to stop every 500 meters we climb, or bad things could happen."

Before the scientist could start listing the rather unsettling effects altitude could have on the human body, the mentalist quickly pointed to a spot in the vast desert landscape.

"How about we take a picture?" Sometimes, ignorance is a bliss.

The way to the peak of Cerro Las Campanas claimed its first toll at 2,300 meters above sea level when the bus had to stop so a passenger could breathe. After long fifteen minutes, the person reboarded, now using the oxygen tank connected to their airways.

By the time they reached 2,490 meters, they had to stop again—this time because Senkuu requested it. He claimed it was a ‘preventative measure’ against altitude sickness.

"Stop complaining and let me put the oxygen on you. It won't hurt."

"And how do you expect me to believe that?!" Gen shot him an incredulous glare. "You promised me a relaxing trip, and there are people on this bus who look like they're about to pass out!"

"That's exactly why I'm doing this—so we don't end up like them." The scientist, calm as ever, was already adjusting his nasal cannula with practiced ease.. "If the cannula bothers you just wear the mask."

And of course Gen did just that—he wasn't thrilled by the idea of tubes in his nose, as any other omega with sensitive sense of smell would. As he secured the mask over his face, he threw a sideways glance at his partner who looked perfectly at ease, enjoying the whole ordeal.

When the observatory finally came into view, with night falling, the bus stopped one last time before reaching their destination.

Gen barely contained his groan. "What is it now?" The omega just wanted to get there already.

"There's a viewpoint nearby." Senkuu stood up from his seat. "Come on, let's get off." Said with a smirk that sent a prickle of suspicion down Gen's spine

"How about you go and I wait here?" He smiled pleadingly, clutching his seat.

Senkuu tilted his head, crimson eyes gleaming with mischief as he was taking his hand. "Come on, I want you to see something."

Once outside, the pair moved away from the bus to set down their portable oxygen tanks. Senkuu checked the valve and oxygen flow, reminding Gen that hyperventilating would only put his health at risk.

They walked a few meters ahead in silence, watching as the sun slowly set on the horizon where the pacific ocean should be. This wasn't the first time they had watched the sun sink into the distance, yet something about this moment felt unique.

The sound of an engine caught Gen's attention: he saw the bus leaving for the observatory without them.

"Senkuu, they forgot us!" Panic surged through Gen as he took a step toward running after the vehicle but was stopped by a strong hoild.

"If you run, you might faint." His voice was calm. "Besides, we're only a few meters away. If we walk carefully, we'll get there just fine."

Gen knew Senkuu too well not to suspect a hidden agenda behind his composed demeanor, there was something more beneath that serene surface.

"You… you crazy scientist! You told them to leave us behind!" He accused indignantly, his words tumbled out in disbelief and frustration as his scent glands reek of fragantic rage.

Senkuu's mischievous laugh echoed over the sand. "You got me." He admitted, a smirk playing on his lips as he scratched the inside of his ear with his hand.

Before long, the temperature began to drop, the scorching heat from hours earlier fading into a dry cold that intensified as the sun disappeared.

"Calm down. I brought you here to see something." Senkuu pulled a lightweight coat from his backpack. "Put this on first. In a few minutes, it'll get much colder."

Gen grumbled under his breath, still irritated by Senkuu's antics and reluctantly complied.

Once they were bundled up and the full weight of the growing darkness settled around them, Senkuu turned his gaze toward Gen, studying his face with a intensity. Gen's breath caught in his throat for a moment, the air still and dry. He adjusted to the growing gloom, eyes squinting at the faint outline of his boyfriend face in the fading light.

"Hey, mentalist." Senkuu smiled. "Look up."

When Gen lifted his gaze, his dark eyes sparkled with the reflection of thousands of stars twinkling, dancing in the vast ink-black sky, tracing the path where Hera's milk was said to have spilled from her divine breast.

For a moment, he had been too angry at Senkuu to notice how quickly night had arrived, and that the only light illuminating them was the soft, celestial glow of the stars—the moon was nowhere to be seen, hidden away in the embrace of its new phase, leaving the stars to reign alone.

As Gen marveled at the sky, Senkuu was lost in the universe reflected in his lover's eyes. In those eyes, Senkuu could see everything he had ever wanted.

"Hey, what are you staring at so much, dear Senkuu?"

"You." Senkuu answered simply. "And what you have in your pocket."

Gen frowned, confused. Did he have something in his pocket? He didn't remember, but when his fingers brushed the fabric of his coat, he felt a small, unfamiliar bulge. His mind raced, a mix of suspicion and surprise settling over him.

"Senkuu, I... I don't believe it." The omega's voice trembled, caught between disbelief and confusion as he slowly pulled the object out. "Can you tell me what is this?"

The scientist scratched the back of his neck with embarrassment, his usual confidence replaced by an awkwardness that was rare for him. It seemed like he had planned every move up to this point, yet the reality was leaving him flustered.

"It's a metal structure, toroidal in shape." Senkuu explained, his usual eloquence faltered him and his voice betraying the nerves he usually hid so well. "I thought palladium would be the best material—light, durable—but... I think platinum suits us better."

As he spoke, he lifted his hand, revealing a ring identical to the one Gen was now holding between his fingers.

The cool metal of the platinum ring glinted in the starlight, the weight of it surreal on Gen's palm. "Are you seriously proposing to me?"

"I'm ten billion percent sure you're going to say yes."

If the desert wind was lifting the sand to make it dance between them, neither of them noticed. Their flushed cheeks made the cold disappear from their skin and the stars shone infinitely, endlessly, their light reflected the shared promise in the rings they wore—the very same, eternal glow that had guided them here, together. Their hearts beat loud and fast, like the drums of a carnival, wild and alive, celebrating love and decorating the silence that hung between them, suspended, waiting for the answer that would seal their fate.

"Yes, Senkuu. I want to marry you."

Chapter Text

The grip on the sheets only tightened as climax drew closer. Ukyo felt his legs tremble under the coordinated movements of Ryuusui's lips and tongue, which parted his entrance and massaged the thick, tender flesh within, dripping with the viscous liquid nature had so kindly bestowed upon omegas. According to the alpha, his taste was usually mild and creamy, but when he was in heat and made an effort to eat fruit, it would take on a unique, indescribable sweetness beyond words—except for Ryuusui's usual "You taste divine, Ukyo; I wish I could savor this forever."

The alpha's words had no regard for Ukyo's mental resilience, making it even harder for the omega to keep himself upright without crushing his husband's face. Noticing the quiver in his thighs, Ryuusui slid his hands up to those soft, pale legs that held him in such a delightful grip. Why was Ukyo afraid of suffocating him? Dying like this would be the least of his problems and the greatest of pleasures.

Without warning, he plunged his tongue in again, seeking that sweet spot deep inside his omega, determined to reach the most intimate depths until he drew out those breathless sighs, those high, keening moans, the reverberating cry of his orgasm, accompanied by a rush of slick. Ryuusui eagerly took it all in, mouth open, swallowing every last drop.

When he was finally satisfied with cleaning the area, the blond mercifully released Ukyo's legs. The omega crawled across the bed, collapsing onto the other side as he tried to recover from his orgasm. When he opened his aquamarine eyes, he was met with the sight of what looked like a wild animal licking its lips, trying to reach its own nose with its tongue. A fleeting laugh escaped his lips, accompanied by a few stray tears — how was it that even after years together and countless heats shared, he could still cry from pleasure? He didn't understand it, but he hoped he would never stop experiencing this liberating ecstasy that purged his body of the most primal emotions he kept buried.

The alpha approached him gently, rubbing the tip of his nose against the omega's cheek. Soft, soothing sounds accompanied the affectionate gesture as he also brushed his erection against Ukyo's thigh. “Do you want water?” He asked, his obscene movements contradicting his innocent offer. “Should I bring you a towel?”

Ukyo took a deep breath, wiggling his toes to regain control over his body. “A towel? For what? You already took care of cleaning.”

Both of them laughed before diving back into another brutal kiss, the temperature in the room rising once more. Their lips clashed aggressively, each trying to devour the other, battling to be the first to take without mercy, to bite without restraint.

The white haired man's heat had definitely escalated to the point of clouding his senses. Even the metallic taste of blood coating his tongue wasn't enough to bring him back to reality. He craved more—more biting, more pain; he wanted his partner beneath him and to corner him against the mattress and ride him until he cried out of overstimulation.

The kiss shattered with a feral growll, and the omega decided he had had enough of being the one pinned down. With a swift motion he straddled until he was on top of Ryuusui's abdomen. The alpha could only smirk at the view.

He dragged his tongue slowly over his swollen, wounded lip, tasting the lingering traces of blood. His brown eyes gleamed with knowing mischief as he gazed up at the omega atop him.

“Starving, my love?”

Ukyo's breath hitched. “You have no idea.” He said and with a deliberate roll of his hips, he made his intentions devastatingly clear.

Whether it was impulse or sheer indulgence, Ukyo wasn't sure, but the most primal part of him took control as he brought his hand to Ryuusui's mouth, slipping two fingers past his lips to run them along the alpha's sharp canines.

It was such an intimate moment—so raw, so animalistic.

Alphas typically didn't let anyone touch their teeth. It was one of the most personal parts of their bodies, a symbol of status. Weak fangs or sensitive teeth were as detrimental to an alpha as the loss of a limb. For some males, even visiting the dentist was an ordeal.

Yet here Ryuusui was, docile and submissive beneath him.

Ukyo traced the sharp points of his fangs, his fingertips skimming over their firm, lethal edges. His incisors were perfectly aligned, a predator's bite crafted by nature itself with raw power, the potential to tear and claim set fire to the omega's skin. If not for the angle, Ukyo might have never noticed the slight inward rotation of one lower premolar.

This wasn't the first time he had played with Ryuusui's teeth, yet the sensation still sent a thrill down his spine. He was toying with the wolf's jaws.

His fingers brushed over Ryuusui's right upper canine, feeling its thickness and length. There was something intoxicating about this act, about running his fingers along the very thing that defined an alpha's power. This was his favorite way to assert dominance over his alpha—to remind him that no matter how much Ryuusui loved to chase, Ukyo was the one who could bring him to heel.

“Why didn't you bite me?” Ukyo asked as he withdrew his fingers from Ryuusui's mouth, voice a whisper laced with curiosity and challenge.

The alpha bit down on nothing, his jaw flexing before he finally responded. “I'll bite you after you sink your fangs into my neck, jewel.”

Ukyo's breath caught. How could he say something like that so casually?! Mate-bites were an everlasting bond written on flesh. Renewing that bond was never something done lightly; the scar would never fade, the mark would remain forever. Yet Ryuusui desired more—longed for more, he yearned for that fresh reminder of ownership and devotion.

He yearned to have that fresh mark of ownership on his body once again and didn't care if the wound would never fully heal.

Alas, Ryuusui loved the scandal that came with being marked too. How society turned a common practice into a taboo just because the one who was supposed to be claimed, like an object, was traditionally the omega.

“You drive me insane, you know that?” Ukyo growled, capturing Ryuusui's lips in another fervent kiss. This time, it was fueled by pure passion. He ground his body against the alpha's, rolling his hips over the throbbing erection that he so desperately wanted inside him.

With a swift motion, Ukyo positioned his hips at the right angle and sank onto the erection with a breathless sigh. The delirious pressure reached the deepest parts of him, his muscles adjusting around the firm intrusion, sending shivers up his spine and melting his thoughts into a molten stream of fire. With practiced malice, he rolled his pelvis, watching intently as his beloved's expression twisted in pleasure, his hands gripping Ukyo's hips tightly to keep the movement going.  

Both of them were on the verge of collapse. It had been a long night of overwhelming emotions and sensations and the only fitting way to end such an occasion was with frantic, desperate thrusts—movements erratic and eager for release.  

Ukyo's moan turned into a cry when Ryuusui's knot pushed past the tight ring of muscle and nestled deep inside, locking them together just as warmth painted his insides in continuous foamy waves of white.  

The sensations were overwhelming, the night had been so intense. His aquamarine eyes, shimmering in the dim light, welled with tears in the aftermath of his climax. His body shuddered with aftershocks, every nerve ending sensitive and alive as his mate held him close, another pulse of heat spilling inside his core.  

“Are you okay?” Ryuusui cupped Ukyo's face in one hand, his thumb gently brushing away the tears that had escaped from those breathtaking oceanic eyes. “Jewel of my sea, don't cry—I'm right here.”  

A soft smile crossed Ukyo's lips. He loved when Ryuusui called him that.  

“Don’t worry, it's just… that was intense.” Ukyo shifted carefully, but the sensation of warmth trickling deeper inside made him pause.  

Ryuusui exhaled deeply, trying to relax his body. They'd be stuck like this for at least ten more minutes. If they didn't ground themselves soon, he'd fall asleep with his husband resting on top of him.  

“I love you.”  

“I love you too.”  

“And I love you more.”  

When was Ryuusui ever going to let him win this competition?  

“Yeah, but the love I have for you is the kind that will nurture the little seed you'll plant inside me.” His words were sharp, deliberate, cutting straight to the point. Ukyo had been holding back all night, waiting for the right moment to bring it up. It had been six months since they started fertility treatment, and though the topic had become a constant in their lives, neither of them had dared to voice their expectations aloud.  

Ukyo didn't want to get his hopes too high.

Ryuusui didn’t want to break apart from the sheer joy of imagining a family with the love of his life.  

A hesitant embrace tightened around Ukyo's lower back and Ryuusui buried his face in the omega's neck. That familiar scent—sea breeze and macerated lime—was laced with something deeper, something complicated.  

“Ryuusui… are you crying?”  

The alpha shook his head, only to hold him even closer.  

“Are you okay?”  

A small nod.  

A few seconds passed before Ryuusui finally took a deep breath and spoke.  

“Sorry… I was just basking in the treasure life has given me.” He pressed a tender kiss to Ukyo's chin. “Let’s take it easy. I don't want to strain your body.”  

“I'll be fine.” The omega ran his fingers through Ryuusui's golden hair, soothing him. “This isn't much.”  

“Yeah, but let's do it gently.”  

Ukyo sought out his husband's face, cupping it in both hands before silencing him with a kiss.  

“I'm the one who decides my rhythm.”  

Oh.  

That meant the night wasn't over yet.  

And there was still hunger left to satisfy.

A series of butterfly kisses interrupted Ukyo's peaceful rest.

“Wake up, my jewel.”

A few more kisses finally coaxed his eyes open with lazy reluctance.

“Hmm?” The omega snuggled deeper into the sheets, unwilling to abandon the comfort of their nest just yet.

“Do you prefer the tub or the shower?” Ryuusui helped his husband sit up.

Ukyo hadn't fully registered the question until he shifted and felt a warm liquid leaving his body, dampening the sheets beneath him. The intensity of the night still lingered in his body.

“Shower.”

With a kiss to his forehead and a tray of fruit, toast and juice left at his side, the blond disappeared into the bathroom to prepare everything, wearing nothing but his underwear.

Ukyo eagerly dug into the fruit. Heat cycles often began with a loss of appetite, only for hunger to return with vengeance after being thoroughly exhausted by acts of love. He cherished these intimate silences, the distant sound of the sea blending with the soft crunch of his bites. The room smelled only of the two of them, which meant Ryuusui had likely handled the food preparation.

Minutes later, the blond returned from the bathroom.

“The shower's ready. Want me to carry you?”

A blush crept onto Ukyo's cheeks—that was all the answer Ryuusui needed. The omega loved being pampered in moments like these.

Setting the empty tray aside, Ryuusui carefully lifted Ukyo into his arms, carrying him effortlessly into the bathroom. The only reason he still dedicated time to the gym was to do things like this (and to keep up with Ukyo's navy training, which occasionally led to his husband returning the favor and carrying him instead).

The room was bathed in the soft glow of scattered candles, their warm light flickering gently, the air was pleasantly warm, with steam clinging to the mirrors.

Ryuusui let Ukyo stand on his own, giving him time to step into the shower and let the water run down his back, waiting until he was comfortable enough to invite him in.

“You can come in now.” The omega murmured once he felt the water had washed away the lingering white traces between his legs.

More than pleased, Ryuusui stepped into the shower, pressing his body against his husband's from behind and resting his hands on either side of Ukyo’s broad hips.

“I like your hips.” He remarked, just in case Ukyo had forgotten. “They're firm. They're strong.”

“Then maybe you should handle me with less care once we're out of the shower.” Ukyo smirked playfully—more than a year after stopping hormonal contraceptives, the libido that surged through him during heat cycles seemed to be making up for all the years he had postponed them.

“Let's take it slow.”

“Do you really want to give me a child or not?” Ukyo pressed his ass against his husband. “Because it sure doesn't seem like it.”

Ryuusui growled in mild irritation, trying—and failing—not to get hard in what he had envisioned as a romantic moment.

“I just want to be gentle.” Couldn't he enjoy some vanilla sex for once? “But, if you insist…”

Without further warning, he slid one hand down to Ukyo's entrance, slipping two fingers inside with ease, just enough to spread him open and let a few drops of lingering seed escape.

Ukyo moaned, bracing himself against the shower wall.

“Enough.” The omega had learned his lesson.

After a kiss of reconciliation, they focused on actually showering, taking their time as they enjoyed the contact of their bodies beneath the running water. The herbal-scented skincare products filled the air with a refreshing menthol fragrance, perfect for easing the tension in Ukyo's tired muscles and moisturizing Ryuusui's skin. Every now and then, they took quiet moments to admire each other's silhouettes, the flickering candlelight revealing and concealing details in a mesmerizing dance. They allowed themselves to sink into the peaceful atmosphere, holding each other close as the warm water cascaded over them.

Leaning against Ryuusui's chest, Ukyo listened to the rhythmic sound of water striking his husband's skin, like a mountain spring flowing over rocks. It soothed him—perhaps that was why they stood there for so long, wrapped in the comfort of each other's warmth.

“I'm good now.” Ukyo finally reached out to turn off the water but didn't pull away from Ryuusui's embrace. “Thank you for taking care of me, my love.”

“Never thank me for the love I give you—it's the least you deserve.”

When was he ever going to stop saying such embarrassingly cheesy things? Those romantic words always made Ukyo overlook Ryuusui's many flaws.

Now clean and dry the couple returned to their nest, undoing the careful work they had done the day before to change the sheets. Ryuusui gathered an assortment of things to provide his partner with an enriched catalog to indulge in: from cushions to dirty clothes that the omega insisted on arranging among the pillows. Ukyo focused on organizing the objects, garments and blankets on the mattress in an order that only he could make sense of, stepping back every now and then to take in the full picture before adjusting a pillow or two. Once satisfied with his work, he curled up like a pup turning in circles before settling down—something Ryuusui adored but never mentioned. He didn't want to risk making Ukyo aware of the animalistic habit and causing him to stop doing it.

Once Ukyo allowed Ryuusui to enter the nest, the cycle repeated itself: fiery kisses, burning caresses and an endless series of touches between their bodies until they were sweating, panting and moaning.

“Please bite me.” The omega rubbed his nonexisted tail against Ryuusui, holding himself up on all fours over the mattress. “Mark me, own me.”

The temptation was overwhelming—he had been mounting him for several minutes and with just a few more thrusts, he was sure he would pop a knot. But he hesitated. He hesitated at the thought of the scar growing larger, wrestling against the instinct to tear into Ukyo's skin. That primal urge to devour him, to make him his, to lock him away like a treasure because only he was worthy of possessing him.

Before he could say a word, he felt Ukyo's entrance tighten around him, embracing his length with a delicate grip that made him delirious. Then, he heard his partner's soft, steady whisper.

“This is a special occasion. Let me feel like I'm yours again, just like the first time.”

And who was he to deny such a wish?

Ryuusui adjusted his position without breaking the penetration, resting his left arm beside Uky's shoulder against the mattress while pressing his right forearm over his lover's shoulder blades, forcing him to arch his back and lift his neck into that delicious pose that invited him to sink his canines into the soft skin.

Ukyo felt an anxious tickle as Ryuusui's teeth brushed against his skin before the painful pleasure of those fangs tore the surface, sinking in with torturous delicacy and sending shivers through his entire body. The sensations were so overwhelming that his consciousness blurred into a deep moan that reverberated through his vocal cords, saliva dripping from his lips like an animal as he rode out the intensity of the bite.

By the time his mind returned to his body, he hadn't even noticed his abdomen was already stained with the warmth of his own seed and the alpha was gently licking away the blood that had spread after the mate bite.

After a few more licks, Ryuusui flipped Ukyo onto his back to admire the chaos he had caused. He lifted one of the omega's legs over his shoulder, sliding his length inside with ease.

“I need to see your face when I make you mine.” He growled, struggling to push past the knot that had been swollen for a while now. “Do not deprive me of your angelic face, let me lose myself between pleasure and the crystal-clear aquamarine sea you have in your eyes.”

After a few insistent thrusts, his knot finally slipped past the omega's wet entrance, releasing deep inside him. At a steady rhythm Ryuusui rode his orgasm, mesmerized by the flushed face of his lover and enchanted by the erotic sight of his slightly open mouth, saliva spilling from the corner of his lips.

“Ryuusui,” Ukyo murmured in a breathless sigh. “My alpha, I feel you inside, so deep, so sweet.” The omega placed both hands over his abdomen, his fingertips tracing the bulge. “You're inside me, making me yours, marking me.”

For long minutes, they remained curled up together, their scents mixing and clinging to the sheets, saturating the space with stormy oceans and warmth.

They surrendered to Morpheus' embrace, falling into a deep sleep.

Ukyo woke up to laughter and soft sighs, a faint tickling sensation brushing against his skin. When he opened his eyes, he was met with the sight of his alpha buried in his armpit, sniffing him like a dog.

“What are you doing?” He chuckled between laughs. “That tickles!”

The alpha inhaled deeply and noisily before pulling away, a curious and bewildered expression on his face as he furrowed his brows in confusion. “You smell… different.”

Before Ryuusui could bury his nose into Ukyo's body again, the omega grabbed his shoulders to stop him.

“There's no need to mention it—I know we're sweaty and gross.” He smiled, knowing his partner didn't mean it in a bad way.

“No, that's not it.” Ryuusui looked at him strangely. “I swear your scent has changed.”

The alpha closed his eyes, his nose twitching slightly as he sniffed the air. Aside from the scent of sweat, slick and saliva, he could clearly detect the deep ocean heart notes, the freshly baked bread in the head notes, and his mate bite-altered scent, which had tinted of vanilla and ambergris. Faintly, almost imperceptibly, there was something else—a milky aroma.

“It's probably just the heat. Don't think too much about it.”

Although his partner told him not to think too much about the change in his scent, from vanilla to something milkier,Ryuusui couldn't stop obsessing over it. In the mornings, the aroma seemed stronger, which only intrigued him further. There was something else in that scent, something that unsettled him. He felt an inexplicable pull toward Ukyo, as if the fragrance made him vulnerable. But vulnerable to what? He didn't understand. He couldn't fully grasp what was happening, and yet, his instincts had never lied to him before.  

“Jewel, you should go see a doctor.” The alpha commented one afternoon as they watched movies, carefully observing the omega's reaction after a week of noticing the change in his scent. “Just to be sure.”  

“You're the only one who's worried, Ryu.” Ukyo didn't pay much attention to it—after all, he couldn't perceive the change in his own scent. “Why would I go to a doctor? I feel fine.”  

The conversation didn't continue.  

At least, not until the second week—when Ukyo woke up feeling unusually warm on a cold October morning.  

“Do you have a fever?”  

“No, just a bit of body heat.”  

The unease Ryuusui carried only grew, compounded by his frustration at how lightly his partner was taking the situation. At the same time, he felt an overwhelming need not to push him, not to make him uncomfortable, to simply agree with whatever he said and not insist more than necessary.  

The third week, during dinner, the final straw came.  

A meal fit for a king was served at the table.  

“Perfectly seared Wagyu steak, seasoned with fresh arugula, accompanied by truffle butter mashed potatoes and Gruyère cheese.” François announced with a subtle smile, well aware that they were the best chef. “I added sautéed asparagus in olive oil and Himalayan salt to enhance the flavors of the Château Margaux red wine. For Master Ukyo, I prepared a raspberry italian soda.”  

They were about to eat when Ukyo, upon sinking his fork into the steak and cutting it, saw the red juiciness of the myoglobin seeping onto the plate. What usually whetted his appetite did the complete opposite this time: watching the pinkish liquid spread made his stomach turn, and the mere possibility of the meat being undercooked filled him with such revulsion that he instinctively brought a hand to his mouth, suppressing the urge to vomit.  

“Ukyo?!” Ryuusui stood up so abruptly that the wine glass on the table tipped over, spilling its content. “What’s wrong? What happened?”  

The omega took a deep breath, avoiding the sight of his plate. “It's nothing to worry about. The meat just seemed a little raw.” Even thinking about it churned his stomach—he needed that plate as far away from him as possible.  

Anticipating his unspoken request, the butler swiftly removed the dish and handed him a silk handkerchief, just in case.  

“That's enough. Stop brushing off these symptoms! You're seeing a doctor, and you're getting a full checkup.” Ryuusui's voice left no room for argument. He didn't wait for a response or a protest, the alpha simply snapped his fingers.  

Ever efficient, François gave a small bow. “I took the liberty of arranging for a medical professional to be on-site in case you required an examination.” He had anticipated this silent request from the alpha ever since they returned from their retreat in Palawan Beach, Singapore.  

Resigned to the situation, Ukyo finally relented. What was the worst that could come from the tests?  

The truth? The best news possible.

He was three weeks pregnant.  

And with that, an infinite happiness settled over them—because the moment to start their family had finally arrived.

Chapter Text

Along with the happiness also came the symptoms: nausea first, fatigue then. Those first few days after the announcement were chaotic at the Nanami-Saionji mansion, where rooms were remodeled to build a cargo elevator exclusively for the gestating omega.

There were more wild ideas floating around the house but at Ukyo's request, the alpha had to ground himself and stay as calm as his gender-endotype would allow. No grand announcements with fireworks or social media posts—the omega wanted peace above all else—the time for a proper announcement would come eventually.

For now, Ukyo focused on facing the dizziness with as much dignity as possible, even though it often brought him to the brink of fainting, turning Ryuusui into his shadow. Bearing a new life was no easy task and despite the rigor of medical care, adapting smoothly was impossible.

"I know dizziness is common, but does it have to be this intense?" The omega sat on a garden bench, the fresh morning breeze seeming to ease his symptoms."I don't get seasick and now I feel like I'm going to faint for just getting out of bed."

François, who shadowed Ukyo when Ryuusui wasn't around, answered by flawlessly repeating the explanation the doctor had given. "It's due to decreased blood pressure; later this afternoon, the tests will determine if you have low blood sugar."

Ukyo offered a gentle smile. Sometimes, he wished the butler would set aside the formality and speak more casually.

"I understand everyone is worried, but a weekly blood test seems a bit excessive, don't you think?"

"I am not in a position to offer an opinion." They replied, pausing briefly before continuing. "But if Master Ukyo wishes, I can relay his concerns."

"That's fine, François." Ukyo knew they were only worried about him—after all, a pregnancy at 35 wasn't something to take lightly, especially for a male omega.

Some might say it was a late age to bear children but for Ukyo it was the right moment. Now more than ever he wanted to experience this process. There was no ideal time; assuming there was a perfect age and moment was impossible.

This was the present he wanted to live in.

Once inside the mansion, the scent of a hot oven and freshly baked bread sent shivers over his skin. What smelled so good? Moving briskly, he reached the kitchen, where the staff piled various pastries onto a cart.

"Though I'm not sure if it's apppropriate, I believe a bit of sweet bread might lift your spirits." François remarked. Ever perceptive, they knew that straying slightly from what was correct and healthy in favor of the guest's happiness was also part of the complete experience of good service.

In the following days, Ukyo spent more time in the kitchen than in the dining room, pulling out ingredients to devour in the morning and suffering stomach sournessat night—a problem that had nothing to do with his diet and everything to do with hormonal changes.

"Jewel, why don't you wait until the food is served?" Ryuusui dared to ask when he saw Ukyo munching on raw carrot sticks.

After finishing one, the omega smiled. "I don't know, the ingredients just taste better now." Picking up a piece of bland celery, he took a bite. "Besides, I want to eat before the stomachache kicks in."

The alpha didn't fully understand, but if his beloved preferred to savor ingredients separately and without seasoning, there would always be snacks available in this house.

"Just don't eat the raw cookie dough."

With lips curled in a pout and aquamarine eyes brimming with pleading, Ukyo tried to bend that rule.

"No raw dough and no raw pasta either. Why would you want to chew on yeast?!"

☼

It was the eighth week of pregnancy, and the omega knew he had to share the news with his friends and acquaintances before it became too obvious. That morning, as he woke up curled up in the sheets, Ryuusui's eyes were fixed on him, scrutinizing his very soul. It was strange—he was used to the alpha waking up with a boisterous energy, always smiling and ready to face the day. But as the weeks passed, Ryuusui made a conscious effort to be quieter around him, careful not to 'disturb the peace' or cause any kind of stress.

The behavior was unsettling in itself. Ukyo wanted his goofy, puppy-brained husband back.

“What's wrong, my ocean?” The omega asked even before saying goodmorning, his brows gently furrowed in concern.

The alpha didn't stop staring, jaw tightening, swallowing hard before answering. “Your… the veins are much more visible on your, you know, there.”

The hesitation in hos husband's voice made Ukyo blink until he noticed the way the alpha’s gaze lingered, heavy with barely restrained hunger. The refusal to say the word chest aloud only underscored how intensely he was holding himself back.

“Oh…” Ukyo looked down and saw, indeed, a couple of veins tracing a bluish hue beneath his pale skin. “Stop staring and say something instead!” He huffed, aquamarine eyes flustered, crossing his arms over his chest with a swift, embarrassed motion.

Ryuusui looked away, sitting up. “You look beautiful like this, Ukyo. I still can't believe something of ours is growing inside you.”

There was nothing more to say—only a sweet kiss to crown the start of the day.

For the first time ever, the group of she-wolves had magically coordinated to clear their schedules that very Saturday. Never in the history of their friendship had a meetup been suggested and confirmed by everyone in less than three days.

It was probably because they all sensed something.

Ukyo took a deep breath as he greeted Yuzuriha, Ruri, and Gen, who had arrived together at the mansion. François escorted them all to an elegantly decorated room with vintage flair, where tea and pastries awaited and everyone found their place around the host.

As they sat down, the expectant stares—clearly not interested in small talk—forced the omega to speak up.

"Yes, I'm pregnant. Can you stop looking at me like that now?"

"I knew it!" Ruri bounced in her seat, kicking her legs with excitement.

Yuzuriha quickly stood up from her seat to give her friend a hug, thrilled about the experience Ukyo was now going to live through.

"Tell us everything." Gen handed Ukyo a cup of tea, smiling with genuine affection. "And don't skip over Ryuusui's comedic behavior, we want to hear about that too."

From there, the conversation flowed calmly. Ukyo tried to summarize what had happened from the moment he found out until now, not afraid to confess how he cried the entire day when he got the test results. He wanted to gloss over a few details like the heartburn and some sudden changes to the mansion, but Gen's trained eye had already spotted the elevator and the access ramps that had magically appeared in various places.

"Anyway, long story short, it's been eight weeks of interesting changes." The omega took a sip of anise tea. "There isn't much more to say, honestly."

No one was going to press the matter if the omega truly didn't want to share more, but now the topic could shift to gossip.

"If no one else will ask, I will—with all the authority of a wife to a dog-brain husband: has Ryuusui changed his behavior yet?" Yuzuriha was well aware that both alphas shared the archetypal liveliness and energy of a 'dogbrain boyfriend,' albeit with quite different personalities.

"Ooh, I'd love to know if he's turned into a scared little chihuahua." Ruri rubbed her hands together, savoring what was to come.

Ukyo burst out laughing, adjusting in his seat. "Sorry to disappoint but no, Ryuusui hasn't changed much—except that he's a little more composed now." The omega chose his words carefully. "You could say he's a bit apprehensive."

"Controlling and ealous-jay, you mean?" The mentalist twisted the words on purpose.

"Gen!"

"Kidding, girls." He quickly corrected himself, clearing his throat to shift his voice into a more collected tone. "In endotype-genre-dynamic psychology, there are three types of alpha archetypes: the protector, the provider, and the warrior."

To make it even more dramatic and center the spotlight on himself, Gen set his teacup aside.

"The protector, also known as family wolves, usually want to keep their family unit away from risk and tend to be overprotective or extremely anxious during their partner's gestation period." At the end of his explanation, all eyes turned to Yuzuriha, who nodded.

Gen crossed his legs and continued.

"The provider, also called wolf-pack leaders, instinctively seek to meet the needs of their loved ones." Gen turned his gaze to Ukyo. "These free-spirited alphas often become territorial with their partners—especially when it comes to managing time and resources during pregnancy."

"...That explains why he wants to renovate the whole house and made a schedule for the day's activities." Ukyo scratched his cheek, glad that it was clear his husband's territorial behavior had nothing to do with jealousy or trying to isolate him from the world. "Wouldn't Senkuu be like that too?"

"Oh dear, don't forget he's Beta." Gen's voice was of a jester, trickery avoiding thinking about his own situation.

"Though I'm surprised by the idea of a quiet Ryuusui." Ruri rested her chin on her hand, thoughtful. "Maybe he just doesn't want to stress you out."

"Or maybe he just has a lot on his mind now that he's going to be a father." Gen offered.

Ukyo remained silent for a moment, carefully considering what he wanted to say. "Truth is… I kind of miss the stress his impulsive behavior used to cause, you know?" The omega adjusted in his seat. "I feel like everyone thinks Ryuusui and I never argue, that we're always on the same page—and that's not true. In fact, it's strange how easily he gives in now."

A comforting hand landed on Ukyo's shoulder. "Wanting to argue just because, for no reason at all, is a sign you're about to go through the biggest hormonal changes of your omega life."

The tone of voice and the uniquely motherly expression made everyone laugh. After that, Yuzuriha decided to steer the topic elsewhere; she didn't want to overwhelm their host.

"What about the third archetype?"

"The warrior?" The omega waved his hand as if brushing it off. "That's the classic macho type who becomes aggressive with other alphas around. Some cases tend to be possessive and jealous."

"Is there something like that but for omegas?" Ruri asked, curious.

"Yes and no. A long time ago, the omega gender dynamic archetypes were thrown out for being sexist and biased."

The afternoon passed in a flash. There was so much to talk about that even the sunset didn't notice it had arrived.

"Yuzuriha, I'm going to ask you to repeat all this motherly advice in a few weeks when the mood swings kick in."

"My sweet summer child, that's closer than you think." She said sweetly, though her voice carried a warning. "But there's nothing to worry about—everything will be fine."

"Yeah, yeah. Besides, we can always come visit when you're all round and dear Ryuusui won't let you go outside." Gen added mischievously, making everyone laugh again.

"Next time let's invite Amarillys!" Ruri squealed in delight, remembering her sister was dating a girl who would probably fit in perfectly with the group.

Ukyo felt so much warmth inside—not just from the pup growing within him, but from the thought of becoming a mother. Soon, they'd be picking out clothes, decorating a room, even considering final names.

Although Ryuusui had already chosen a name in case it was a boy.

Ukyo hoped it would be a boy.

☼

The sound of the door closing and car keys jingling as they were left on the entryway table announced the omega's return home, tiptoeing his way to wherever his fiancé might be. Gen was visibly excited about the situation and very happy for his friend. How could he not be? He seemed so hopeful about the future, so strong in his fragility—and Gen swore that, a couple of times, the omega discreetly brushed a hand over his lower belly.

“Dear Senkuu!” He squealed upon finally finding him. “Our dearest friends are expecting the unexpected!” He chirped like a bird, his smile genuine. “Ukyo is eight weeks along! How did he hide it so well? I was expecting some grand announcement on social media, weren't you?”

Without meaning to, he'd turned the conversation into a monologue, to which Senkuu listened while pouring himself a glass of water.

“I suppose.” The beta nodded, manually filing the information away in his mind. “Would you like a grand announcement?”

The question was so vague it was confusing, sparking a puzzled look on the omega's delicate face.

“…what do you mean by that?” He asked. There's no harm in asking, right?

“I mean, you've thought about reproducing. In that hypothetical situation, would you want a grand announcement?”

Definitely not the best way to steer the conversation—nor the most tactful word choice.

“Excuse me?!” The omega took every word personally, as if needles had just pierced his skin and acidic his scent. “Having children? Is that seriously what you're going to call it—reproduce?”

Senkuu clicked his tongue, realizing it was a poor choice of words. “Correction: have a child. You want to have a child.”

Gen cut him off before the scientist could finish fixing the unfixable.

“It's not like I want it—it was just a possibility.” Gen was well within his right to take it personally. “I don't even see it as likely now. With my age and your attitude, there's not much to hope for.”

The beta sighed deeply. He had to stay rational in this situation and not let Gen's intensity get to him.

“Don't take it that way. I didn't mean to phrase it like that.”

“Let's be honest with ourselves, dear Senkuu. We're not even sure we could build a family—or keep one together.”

There was malice in his words, because the mentalist knew exactly which nerves to strike to rattle his partner's conscience.

“We are a family already.” Senkuu defended himself as best he could. “I've never said it's a bad idea or that it's impossible.”

“But you've never said it's a good idea either—or that you've considered it.”

Gen paced the kitchen like a caged animal. His day had been so idyllic that the emotional turn overwhelmed his senses.

“We don't have parental material like they do, I know.” The omega stopped and rested both hands on the table, eyeing his options as if they were cards laid out before him. “We're not the ideal, devoted, perfectly in-sync couple like them. I don't even know why I bothered bringing it up.”

Seeing his partner's graceful figure still, Senkuu decided to approach with caution. His scarlet eyes gave away the pain caused by hearing those words from his fiancé's lips.

“Mentalist, that's not what I meant.” It wasn't, he never intended to highlight Gen's insecurity.

Gen resumed pacing, not wanting to be close to his partner. The truth was, he did feel insecure about their situation. The happiness he felt for his friend shook his own emotional balance. Could he see himself in that same position?

Or rather… would he be just as happy in that same situation, with those same decisions?

Did he really want to have children?

The very question brought him to the floor, sitting down on the cool blue-patterned tile.

“I don't think we're ready.” Gen's voice dropped. With a sluggish flick of his wrist, he brushed his long two-toned hair from his face, the strands catching momentarily on the edge of his knuckles. “Maybe we never will be.”

Senkuu watched him in silence. He moved again, this time slower, more cautiously. His footsteps quiet against the tile. He stopped beside him, not too close, and leaned his weight against the stove, arms crossed, eyes fixed on a crack in the wall like it held the answers he didn't have.

“Is that really such a terrible thing?” His voice came softer now, evidencing how heavy this all felt.

“I don't know. Do you want to have children?”

“Do you want to?” He replied, dodging. “It's your body, after all.”

The deep sigh that tore through Gen's lungs also split the tension in the kitchen.

“No, dear Senkuu. You answer me." His tone was firmer now, fearless. "Do you want to have a child with me?”

The beta stilled, eyes narrowing with thought. There was so much to think about that the scientist fell silent.

“That's all I needed to know.” Gen's voice cracked, quiet and final. His silhouette curled in on itself, pulling his knees to his chest and resting his chin atop them.

“…you didn't let me answer, mentalist.” The scientist tried to keep his usual teasing tone but it came out worn and uneven.“Truth is, I have no idea if I'd be able to live up to the challenge—this isn't an experiment. It goes beyond science itself because it involves the most chaotic variable I could ever face: protecting a life.”

With the words came a wave of exhaustion, forcing him to sit next to the omega. The tile was freezing against him, grounding and harsh, but being beside him felt necessary, they could finally look each other in the eye.

“I have to admit… I believe in you more than I believe in myself in this situation.” And he wasn't ashamed to say it. “My final answer is: as long as it's with you, I'd go to hell gladly.”

There, on the cold tile floor, they each witnessed the other's resolve.

The decision had been made—and it was clear when Gen slowly rested his head on Senkuu's shoulder.

Chapter Text

"Ryuusui, do you remember when I said we'd be ‘just fine’ through this process?” Ukyo murmured, visibly in pain as he struggled to brush his teeth. “How wrong I was—and how much I hate you right now. All you did was have good aim.”

The alpha stood behind him, arms wrapped around his waist, showering sweet kisses along the slope of his neck. “I love you too, my precious and irritable omega.”

From the beginning of the second trimester, Ukyo realized he had seriously underestimated the changes happening to his body: from pregnancy gingivitis to the sharp back pain brought on by the shift in his center of gravity. Brushing his teeth had become a painful ordeal, often ending in bleeding. And on top of it all, he felt irritable—an emotion so foreign to him, it made him wonder what kind of personality their baby would inherit.

He was grateful that Ryuusui never took his outbursts personally.

And just as thankful for the household butler, François, who prepared gourmet meals daily. Ukyo wasn't sure if it was the hormones or simply that his body was working around the clock to grow a tiny human, but he felt a bottomless hunger all day long. Toast and eggs in the morning, lasagna for lunch, muffins and hot cocoa for afternoon tea, and a dinner he often repeated. He usually ate more than Ryuusui, but now his portions were outright exaggerated.

With the increase in appetite came a surge in energy, and soon Ukyo's visits to the gym grew longer and daily—until one morning, he came home from work to find a private gym had been inaugurated right inside their home.

“Ryuusui, this really isn't necessary.” Ukyo glanced at the sheer number of machines and equipment in the room. “I like going to the gym. I get to socialize with others who were in the navy.”

To that, Ryuusui responded only with a dramatic whine, hugging him tightly, planting a flurry of kisses on his cheek, and lifting him up to spin him around. “Noooo, my mate has to stay at home with me! Don't leave me!”

“Ryuusui, it's just an hour and half.”

“I have separation anxiety, Ukyo. If you're gone for too long, I'll start chewing the couch.” Said Ryuusui like the spoiled, oversized pet he was; with barks and all.

How could Ukyo say no to that face, those sounds, that goofy smile and the way Ryuusui seemed ready to kiss the very ground he walked on?

“Alright, home gym it is.”

Without knowing it, it had turned out to be a very wise decision—he could now exercise both in the morning and in the afternoon. Ukyo felt brimming with energy and vitality, often spending the entire afternoon jogging on the treadmill beside Ryuusui, who couldn't keep up with his pace all the way through.

To be honest with himself, even though the whole experience had been far more complicated than h'd anticipated, he felt blissful: with his changing body, with the new experiences he was living, and happy with the life partner who woke him each day with soft caresses tracing the linea alba that grew more visible by the day.

“Are you sure you find my belly attractive?” The white-haired omega asked one night before bed.

“Are you kidding? I adore every change your body's going through—it fills me with life, it makes me so happy and, I won't lie, you look incredibly appetizing.” He punctuated the statement with hot kisses scattered across Ukyo's abdomen.

With a long sigh, the omega tangled his fingers in his alpha's short blond hair.

“Don't provoke me, Ryuusui. You can barely keep up with me on the treadmill.”

“If my husband makes me pass out from pleasure, don't save me—that's exactly how I want to leave this world.”

The statement was so outrageous that the omega burst into laughter, losing the flicker of desire that had begun to settle in his lower belly.

“You're so stupid sometimes.”

“If I made you laugh, then it was all worth it.” Ryuusui's brown eyes shone tenderly as they gazed at his partner. Over the years, he'd learned that Ukyo loved both sides of him: the commanding leader and the golden retriever. It was good to be true to himself, to radiate confidence and possess a commanding voice—but even better to throw all that aside just to see the love of his life laugh until his sides hurt.

“I love you, Ukyo.” A gentle hand brushed down his torso.

“Only me?” Ukyo asked softly.

“Yes, only you.” He answered. “You and your breasts that seem to grow bigger every week.”

“You just had to kill the romance, didn't you?”

And despite all the teasing and flirtation, the night ended with moans of pleasure, kisses so fervent they left skin burning and their bodies melting into one another with the intensity of their love.

Ukyo adored Ryuusui's surrender, how he worshipped his body, kissed every inch of it and delighted in licking his swollen breasts that soon will produce milk.

Ryuusui felt delirious, immersed in the most surreal and idyllic experience of his life, profoundly grateful for the vulnerability of the body laid bare before him—so dazzling it nearly blinded him. He wasn't exaggerating when he said he'd fallen in love all over again. He loved him so much it brought tears to his eyes, be they from pleasure or pure joy.

“I adore you, Ukyo. Your body, so perfect and ever-changing, all mine. You drive me wild.”

The omega didn't know how to respond, he simply cupped his alpha's face and kissed him slowly.

“Love me tender tonight, my ocean.” he murmured, rolling his hips to feel the stretch of his body around his cock. “Love me, love me and make me yours. Only yours…”

“You're mine, and we belong together, jewel. This life, and the next one that's to come.”

It was two in the afternoon on a Sunday, and Gen's house smelled like freshly baked cookies, candied pineapple and honey. Of course, there were no freshly baked cookies, no pineapple and certainly no honey, but many people used those words to describe the scent that came from a pack of happy omegas.

This was the second time Amaryllis attended a gathering with the others and she was already admitted into the group chat as an honorary member.

"As I was saying, you won't believe what happened next." Amaryllis was a beautiful woman, with sculptured curves, black curly hair and sun kissed skin. The more excited she got, the faster she spoke. "After I told that jerk 'no,' he yelled at Kohaku ‘you look like a man.’ Can you believe it?"

"And what did Kohaku say back?" asked Gen, guessing the alpha wouldn't stay quiet.

"Kohaku yelled back, ‘well, you don’t look like a man’ and proceeded to flex her arms." A crimson tint reddened Amaryllis' cheeks as she recalled her partner's strong arms.

Ruri, Kohaku's older sister, was left open-mouthed and speachless. How come Kohaku hadn’t told her that story?!

Meanwhile, the others laughed at the anecdote.

"Alright, my turn now." Ukyo settled into the couch, gently caressing his rounded belly. As you probably know, I’m in the middle of my second trimester. So Ryuusui and I decided to do the definitive ultrasound to find out the pup’s gender"

"Ten cupcakes on it being a girl." Yuzuriha said quickly.

"Ten billion cupcakes he says it's a boy." Ruri exaggerated, placing two fingers in front of her face.

"Are you going to let me tell you?" Ukyo's sweet laughter tripped over his own smile, his face glowing with excitement over the words he was about to say.

"What are you waiting for?! I'm on the edge of my seat!" Amarillys was braiding her own hair out of nerves.

"...It's a boy." He said in a soft voice.

Or maybe he said it in a normal tone, but the high-pitched squeals from the group drowned out the words he couldn’t hold back.

"I knew it!" Ruri jumped out of her chair, first to do a little victory dance before going over to hug her friend.

Yuzuriha joined the hug, feeling the air leave her lungs as Ruri squeezed tighter.

"I'm so happy for you, Ukyo." Gen, who shared the couch with Ukyo, gently took the hand that was trembling with emotion. "You really wanted a boy, didn’t you?”

"The truth is... I did, and I hope he looks like Ryuusui." The omega closed his eyes to hide the aquamarine shimmer that threatened to fall. "His name will be Ryuugan."

"A Japanese name?" The latina asked with curiosity, still braiding her hair. "What does it mean?"

"Right! Did you choose it?"

Ukyo tilted his head, unsure how to respond. "It was more of a joint decision. It's made up from ‘Ryuu’, which means dragon, and ‘Gan’, which means eye."

"Wait a minute… dragon's eye." Gen, a native japanese and well-versed in Asian culture, had heard that word before. "It also means ‘dragon fruit,’ doesn't it?"

"What a beautiful play on words!" Yuzuriha brought her hands to her cheeks, fondly remembering the moment she and Taiju chose their son’s name.

Ruri cleared her throat, allowing Ukyo to breathe in relief as the attention shifted. "I’m going to ask two things that we all want to know: first, how come Ryuusui hasn’t posted anything on social media?”

"Oh, I asked him not to." Ukyo, still with both hands over his belly, was quick to defend his alpha’s honor. “I wanted privacy during the first trimester, you know how social media accounts are. But don’t worry, starting tonight at ten, he’s free to post as many pictures as he wants and I'll go back to work.”

"A lion with a muzzler." Gen murmured—an expression used for alphas who followed their omegas' wishes blindly.

"Brownies, my dear friend?" Ukyo offered with a sinister grin.

"No, thanks." Gen smiled back, feeling a shiver down his spine. "I've been nauseous so I pass on food today."

"And the second question?" Amaryllis asked, expectant.

"When are you going to announce your pregnancy, Gen?"

A noisy silence flooded the mentalist's house: Ukyo covered his mouth with a hand, Yuzuriha was left wide-eyed and Amarillys fanned her face with both hands.

The omega had no idea how to respond.

"We don't have any plans for that yet." There was nervousness in his voice—was that true? Partly yes, partly no. "You know, my job and his job. Senkuu recently started astronaut training and... I haven't even considered medical treatments."

"Aha." Ruri narrowed her eyes, scrutinizing the omega's soul. "Have you stopped using birth control?"

"Yes, but not for the reasons you think!" Gen rushed to speak, sweeping his long bicolor hair away from his face. "I need to run some routine tests to rule out polycystic ovaries. It's barely been two months!"

"Mhm." Ruri repeated, this time pressing her lips together to hold back the words she wanted to say.

"Oh come on, it's not a big deal. I'll get the tests done next week and go back on the pill.”

"Cariño, the more you defend yourself, the more you sink." Amaryllis's pronunciation showed off her sassy latin american roots.

"Why are you all so hostile to me?!" The mentalist, cornered like a mouse, used his expertise to change the topic. "This feel just like when I met Ukyo!"

They all laughed, but Ukyo had a question to ask.

"Ruri, are you and Chrome planning to have kids?”

Ruri took a sip of her lemonade, making a dramatic pause before answering. "No."

Gen and Ukyo exchanged looks—both had known Ruri for years and never expected that response. Had they stepped on a landmine? She and Kohaku were practically raised alone due to their mother's fragile health, who died before her daughters even reached adolescence.

"You see, I have very fragile health. In a mature gesture, Chrome told me to prioritize my life over any other decision." The blonde's smile was genuine as she recalled her husband's face. "He told me: I don't know what the future may hold, but I want to build my present with you."

Another round of group squirrel sounds could be heard—this time from tenderness.

"The decision was always mine, girls, but knowing that he'd love me no matter what took a weight off my shoulders.”

Gen gave a half-smile. How did the people around him change so much? He couldn't help but feel left behind, as if his life was following a dull course. The lack of action, the lack of decision, was catching up to him.

"Ahem." Amaryllis stepped in, changin the topic to light the mood. "How does Ukyo and Gen met?"

"Oh, right, you're new to most of the tea."

"It's all because of dear Tsukasa." Gen took over the conversation, fixing his bicolored hair. "I met Tsukasa through a TV show and I really don't know how he met Ukyo. To begin with, he's a bit... abrasive."

Ukyo munched on the brownies he had offeredt earlier, clearly deciding not to comment on how he met the kickboxer.

"What's important is the first impression, right? Well, this damn baby-faced sonar boy pulled quite the joke on me." Always the showman, he moved his hands as he spoke. "I asked him about his hobbies, and he looked me straight in the eyes and whispered 'stalking.'"

Amaryllis laughed, imagining Ukyo's delicate face with a serious expression.

"It didn’t end there, nope! I tried to be friendly and told him 'I’m a magician', and he smiled like a freak and told me, 'I know.'"

The white-haired man let out a loud laugh remembering that moment. It had been a long day of hard work and he saw the perfect chance to relieve some stress with a little prank.

"Ukyo is quite scary when he shows why he held such a high position in the SDF Navy." Yuzuriha testified.

"That’s all water under the bridge."

"Sure ing-thay." He rolled his eyes.

The pregnant man excused himself to go to the bathroom, he had recently started needing to go more frequently.

"So... this Tsukasa guy, who is he, and why is he gossip material?" Amaryllis felt like there was more to the story—some conflict hidden beneath the jokes and offhand comments.

"He was a classmate." Yuzuriha, who had attended the same high school, decided to explain the situation. "He was in the same class as Senkuu and Taiju, a pretty solitary guy without friends. That changed after working on a science project."

Ruri helped add a touch of flair to Yuzuriha’s story with occasional facial expressions.

"That’s when we understood why he had no friends: he was very possessive of the ones he did have, way too alpha-dominant for our group. I don’t know all the details, but from what Taiju told me, at one point Tsukasa told Senkuu he should give up on science, and well... things didn’t end well."

"Huelo corazones rotos." Even if nobody else knew spanish, they understood Amaryllis's words.

"And since the world is small and fate loves chaos, I later met Tsukasa, and things didn’t end well either." Now it was Gen’s turn to share his story. "We were close—until I met Senkuu."

Gen took a breath before continuing.

"Senkuu shook my world from the moment I met him—it was instant attraction. I don’t know if it was his scent, his attitude or those scarlet red eyes, but I immediately devoted my time to him." The japanese man played with his engagement ring to relieve the stress of recalling those events. "Tsukasa didn’t like it. He said he felt betrayed and that I should stop seeing Senkuu."

"Did you?"

"Absolutely not. Somehow that only made me like Senkuu more." He was honest—she deserved an honest story. "Things didn’t end well because he was too intense, and I was too fleeting."

A pause followed, allowing everyone to digest the information. The story now hung in the air, unresolved.

"What I gather is that there were one heart broken two times. So… what’s he up to now?"

"He’s dating a journalist now. Her name’s Minami, and you could say she fulfilled every fan’s dream."

"...did no one tell that girl she ended up being the consolation prize?" Amaryllis didn’t hold back. "Dear god, heterosexual by choice."

Laughter followed, though not very cheerful.

"Adulthood is like that: sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. If life weren’t complicated, it wouldn’t be worth living."

Because, truthfully, growing up meant losing and changing. Those adults who never got past teenage behavior were doomed to repeat the same patterns, to crash into the same wall. Sometimes things just don’t go the way you imagine them, even when you give it your all—human relationships aren’t dictated entirely by reason, nor can they be chained down on emotions.

Whether because of a sad and tragic childhood or just due to personality, adult life is complex for everybody. No one is spared from a bitter sip. What matters is what you do with what happened to you, not the event itself.

"It's already six and my carriage will be here soon, ladies." Ukyo interrupted just in time, picking up his phone to answer the many ‘are you okay’ and ‘how is little ryuugan’ messages from Ryuusui.

Amaryllis began clearing the table and taking the dishes to the kitchen—she sensed something needed to be discussed, and her presence wasn't necessary.

"Ruri, I'm sorry if I brought up a sensitive topic." Gen's voice was filled with sincerity and empathy.

"It's fine, really." The woman's blue eyes held no grudge. "But you should take a pregnancy test before going back on birth control."

They hugged tenderly—there was nothing to forgive honestly.

“I want a hug too.” Ukyo approached with open arms, lightly pressing his belly against Gen. “There, a baby bump to give you luck.”

“Do not... ugh!” Gen rolled his eyes, tying up his hair to keep it out of his face.

“Our kids have to be childhood friends, Gen.” Before he could reply, the doorbell rang, announcing his husband's arrival.

When the door opened, the alpha everyone knew appeared with his blond hair freshly cut, styled short on the sides in a modern look that cleared his face.

Gen and Ruri decided it was better to ask about the new look in the group chat.

“Thanks for taking care of him!” The alpha grinned, showing off his prominent canines. “See you!”

"There they were, there they go." The host said after closing the door, thankful for the visit but exhausted from socializing.

The conversation had drained him and the last topic kept swirling in his head like a looping melody, a spiral of doubts and assumptions.

Doubts, about the present. Assumptions, about the future.

And let’s not forget the fear of facing a situation for which he wasn’t ready. Panic spread inside him, a black veil covering his consciousness, and he trembled from cold on a clear March day.

Call it psychosis or simply Ruri’s clairvoyance, but his hands were sweating from nerves. Was he really going to take a pregnancy test just because of his friends’ words?

Well, there he was, sitting in the bathroom, holding the plastic stick in his hands, his will bent by an unfounded fear.

A very real fear, when the answer was right in front of him three minutes later.

“Shit, goddamn it, this can’t be real.” His voice scratched his throat as he spoke. “This can’t be real, this can’t be real, this isn’t happening, it shouldn’t be.”

He brought both hands to his face to hide his eyes from the positive result that had fallen to the floor.

He also took the chance to hide his tears.

The omega wasn’t ready for this, this wasn’t what he wanted—he had no idea what he wanted!

He had never felt so fragile as he did right now, sobbing alone in the bathroom without knowing what to do, without knowing what to say. How was he supposed to go on after this? How did one survive news like this? What had once been a vague idea was now slamming him to the ground with the terrifying possibility that maybe this wasn’t what he wanted at all—that maybe he had never truly wanted this.

Whether it was fifteen minutes, forty minutes, or more, eventually his partner came home and started looking for him around the place.

Gen could hear his voice, but he couldn’t respond.

He had no strength to speak.

When Senkuu opened the bathroom door on the second floor and found Gen crying, he immediately dropped his bag on the floor to tend to him. What had happened? An injury? Some kind of sickness?

His mind raced from zero to a hundred in a second, clearing Gen’s pale face to help him regulate his breathing.

“Breathe. Breathe with me, let’s avoid you hyperventilating. Then you can tell me what happened.”

But the omega didn’t have time to calm down.

“Senkuu, I’m pregnant! What the hell am I gonna do?!”

The beta wanted to reply, but he was stunned by the news.

“What the hell am I going to do, Senkuu? I’m not ready for this, Senkuu! Tell me what I’m going to do!”

Hearing those words hit him like a bucket of cold water and the moment turned eternal: his partner crying, the test on the floor with the result, and a freezing room.

“Gen, look at me.” The green-haired man called his beloved’s name. “Look at me and listen.”

When he got a response, and those tear-filled blue eyes stopped to look at him, he spoke.

“You're going to do what's best for you. It’s your body, it’s your choice.”

But that wasn’t what Gen wanted to hear. Or needed to hear.

“Don’t tell me that, Senkuu!” The omega raised his voice fiercely, the words only making him more anxious and feral. “That doesn’t help me, it doesn’t clarify anything!”

He broke down crying again, wiping his nose on the sleeve of his sweater.

“Tell me, Senkuu, what do you want to do?”

“It’s your body, Gen.”

“Don’t fuck around, tell me!” The dark-haired man couldn’t take it anymore, clouded by emotions that made his scent bitter. “You’re in the astronaut program, you’re at the peak of your career, and so am I. What do you want to do? It’s not the time, it’s not the place, none of this is right, and you still won’t answer me—Answer me!”

Rough hands, calloused from work, held his slender fingers. And that signature laugh echoed through the room. That laugh everyone knew.

“Damn, do not hate me for this.” He began to say. “I find this so exhilarating, it makes me feel guilty I’m not panicking.”

But it was the truth.

“Are you erious-say?” Gen sighed, exhausted, staring at the bathroom floor. “Right now? In this moment?”

“Yes, right now and right here.” The beta gave him a reassuring smile.

There was a silence before Senkuu helped Gen to his feet and embraced him in a tender hug.

“It’s your body, it’s your decision, and I’ll be with you whether you want to keep it or not.”

“Seriously?”

“Yes. I’ll be with you every step of the way.”

After all the tears and panic, Gen fell asleep the moment he laid down on the bed, and Senkuu was left alone to wander through his thoughts.

“A child.” His treacherous thoughts escaped his lips. “I’m going to have a child.”

He promptly corrected himself, trying not to be swept up in emotion.

“I’ll have a child only if Gen decides so.”

Yet he couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement at the news; he couldn’t quite recognize himself in that moment. Since when had the idea of parenting thrilled him so much?

Whether due to pure biology and the drive to replicate his genes, or just the adrenaline of the moment, he felt like laughing at how arbitrary and unpredictable life was.

How incredible it was—how little the rest of the world seemed to matter: the NASA program, the astronaut training, his scientific publications, the awards he was nominated for… Nothing seemed more exciting than the mere possibility of becoming a father.

“This is so out of my character.” He said in complete silence. “Irrational, yet buzzing with excitement.”

No, it was precisely who he was: driven by curiosity, always expecting the unexpected from the future.

Aside from the happiness of last night that had blessed Senkuu, once Gen woke up at 6 o'clock in the morning, he went straight to the toilet to empty his stomach.

The scientist helped hold his hair back while his partner vomited and trembled, giving him gentle pats on the back.

"This is disgusting." the omega muttered during a brief pause before he continued vomiting.

"It isn't, it's biology."

"Right, it’s all pure biology for Mr. Scientist." Gen hadn’t meant to sound so harsh and sarcastic, but those kinds of comments did little to help when he felt irritated and vulnerable.

"Trust me and what I’m telling you, I’m a scientist." For Senkuu, it was impossible to take his fiancé's words with malice. "It’s rare for symptoms to show this early, but if I do the math—"

"No, don’t do the math." A cold hand grabbed his shirt in a threatening way. "The more ignorant I am, the better."

Then, he vomited whatever was left in his stomach. 

How was he supposed to have breakfast after that? He’d been brushing his teeth for two minutes and still didn’t know what part of his routine was supposed to follow post-vomiting. Every few seconds, he’d fall back into realizing what was happening nd his pulse would spike.

"Alright, no math… for you." The green-haired man raised his hands in surrender, showing he had no intention of irritating him. "I can’t promise there won’t be science, though. It’s still my duty to monitor fetal development."

"Don’t call it that."

"Pregnancy."

"You know what? I liked it better the other way."

After rinsing out his mouth repeatedly, Gen finally gathered the energy to keep arguing.

"And what’s this about a ‘duty’ to monitor my body?"

"It’s my duty as your partner."

"And not as the father?"

"Yes, that too." Senkuu turned around as he spoke. "I’m going to make breakfast. See you downstairs."

The omega knew his partner well enough to guess the beta wanted to hide a smile when he said those words.

But, what was he going to do?

It was painfully obvious that his partner had received the news with a completely different mindset, and no matter how much he tried to keep a solemn image, the dewy scent of rainy forest that Senkuu gave off betrayed him.

If only the beta could smell himself.

"What’s for breakfast? I hope it’s not scrambled eggs." Gen decided to do what he did best: put on a show. They both knew the lines that followed to their private comedy routine.

"It is scrambled eggs, actually." This comedic scene had started about three years ago, where one would ask about the food, and both would coincidentally cook what the other didn’t want. "In fact, they’ve never been this scrambled."

"Oh please, no! I hope they weren’t scrambled clockwise!"

"They were scrambled clockwise." Senkuu replied, pouring the pan onto a wooden board. "Twenty-four times, like the hours in a day."

"Eggscelent."

They both laughed. No one else needed to get the joke—just them. That’s what made it so special.

It wasn’t until after the dishes had been cleaned that the conversation resumed.

"I still can’t believe what’s happening," the omega said, curling up on the couch. "This shouldn’t be happening."

"But it is happening. That’s a fact." Without wanting to upset him but staying grounded, the scientist tried to comfort his partner. "Luckily, it’s not the end of the world."

"Sure, of course." A tired sigh filled the room. "What if I decide not to keep it?"

Because, of course, that was a possibility.

"Then I’ll help you with the abortion." Senkuu shrugged. "I’ve got everything necessary in the lab if you need me to make misoprostol."

"Misopro—what?" Gen’s eyes turned toward the viewer. "So now you’re not only a space genius but also a doctor and pharmaceutical chemist?"

"Actually," Senkuu raised a finger for emphasis, "I have a degree in chemistry and medical field experience from when I went to study Ebola."

Gen messed up his long hair, whining. "You have an answer for everything!" 

"Of course, it’s a defining trait of mine."

"Then answer me this: do you want to have a child with me?"

The question was so precise, so sharp and direct, it caught the young man off guard—his scarlet eyes hid behind a grimace of defeat. He felt cornered: a sword hung over his chest, and he couldn’t have felt luckier that it was Gen holding the blade.

"Yes, I do. I want to have a child with you. Be a son or a daughter, either way, it’ll be very exciting."

Now all that was left was for Gen to make a decision.