Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

I made a wild amount of lore for this so there will be more to this series. These are the ships in the universe:

Yuta (Alpha) / Hongjoong (Omega)

Taeyong (Alpha) / Johnny  (Alpha)

Jaehyun (Alpha) / Doyoung (Omega)

Mingyu (Alpha) / Jungwoo (Omega)

Mark (Omega) / Haechan (Beta)

Jeno (Alpha) / Jaemin (Beta)

Renjun (Beta)  / Chenle (Alpha)

Sungchan (Beta) / Shotaro (Omega)

Jisung (Alpha)  / Mingi (Omega)

Kun (Alpha)  / Ten (Omega)  / WinWin (Beta)

YangYang (Omega) / Xia ojun  (Omega) / Hendery (Beta)

San (Omega)  / Seonghwa (Omega)

Jongho (Beta) / Yeosang (Omega)

Yunho (Beta) / Wooyoung (Beta)

Mark is the leader of DREAM Pack, SungTaro are members of it! Taeyong is the leader of 127 Pack, obvi. Kun leads V Pack, and Hongjoong leads ATEEZ Pack. Taeyong and Yuta dated in the past, this is important for what will happen later in the story. Taeyong is like,,, the head of all NEO Packs, but they have their own pack homes and stuff,,, hence Mark and Kun also being leaders. There is no bad blood between packs. Maddox is an Alpha,,, he is mentioned but won't actually be in the story.

In this, Hongjoong really is the “I am a strong independent omega, I don’t need an alpha” type until he meets Yuta. After meeting Yuta he really goes “Please make me a mother.” But in his defense, he has never been near an alpha besides Maddox (who practically raised him) and Yuta’s pheromones are too much for him to handle. He hasn’t had a heat in six years, taking suppressants so that he didn’t have them. He was more concerned about his packmates and their heats and he didn’t want to be a weakness to them. ATEEZ Pack is made of ONLY Omegas and Betas.

Yuta is a little bit of a lonely sad boy. Literally all of his pack mates are in relationships (except Jisung) and he has to see his ex every day, loving on Johnny. He is like a big brother to the Dreamies, especially to Shotaro. 

This is the breakdown of all the characters and their info for this universe in the story. I will be using their scents as an identifier for them from now on. This took me way too long lol.

Yuta (Alpha) / Hongjoong (Omega)

Yuta -   NEO Pack; 127 faction, long black fluffy hair (Blue to Orange: House of Love)

Scent - Dark chocolate and cherry (like black forest cake but like,,, super super dark chocolate, very rich)

Hongjoong - ATEEZ pack leader, Cruella split-dyed hair (Guerilla era) - will become BlueJoong later on.

Scent - Undistinguishable, very very sweet (take the sweetest scent you know and make it ten times sweeter) 

Taeyong (Alpha) / Johnny  (Alpha)

Taeyong  - NEO Pack leader, neon green hair (Shalala era)

Scent - Roses and fresh earthy soil

Johnny - NEO Pack; 127 faction, long dark brown hair (7th Anniversary photoshoot era)

Scent - Rich black coffee

Jaehyun (Alpha) / Doyoung (Omega)

Jaehyun  - NEO Pack; 127 faction, honey brown hair (Perfume era)

Scent- Wood smoke

Doyoung - NEO pack; 127 faction, black hair (Perfume era)

Scent- Mulled wine

Mingyu (Alpha) / Jungwoo (Omega)

Mingyu - Unkown Pack - Packless; green hair (IN-COMPLETE Concert era)

Scent - Green Tea and Birch

Jungwoo - NEO Pack; 127 faction, white hair (Lemonade era)

Scent- Matcha and honey

Mark (Omega) / Haechan (Beta)

Mark  - NEO Pack; Dream faction Leader, black hair (Hot Sauce era)

Scent- Maple syrup (pun intended)

Haechan - NEO Pack; Dream faction, purple hair (Punch era)

Scent - Freshly baked bread and sweet cream

Jeno (Alpha) / Jaemin (Beta)

Jeno   - NEO Pack; Dream faction, Pink hair (Glitch Mode era)

Scent - Fresh cut grass

Jaemin  - NEO Pack; Dream faction, light blue hair (Reload era)

Scent - Apples

Renjun (Beta)  / Chenle (Alpha)

Renjun   - NEO Pack; Dream faction, black and white hair (Hot Sauce era)

Scent - Petrichor (the smell of rain)

Chenle - NEO Pack: Dream faction, mint green hair (We Go Up era)

Scent- Musk and soil

Sungchan (Beta) / Shotaro (Omega)

Sungchan  - NEO Pack; Dream faction, honey brown hair (Universe era)

Scent - Bamboo

Shotaro -  NEO Pack; Dream faction, blonde hair (SMCU 2022 era)

Scent - Cherry Blossoms

Jisung (Alpha)  / Mingi (Omega)

Jisung   - NEO Pack; Dream faction, dark blue hair (Broken Melodies MV)

Scent - Citrus and Green Tea

Mingi   - ATEEZ Pack, short pink hair (Bouncy era)

Scent - Sweet lemonade

Kun (Alpha)  / Ten (Omega)  / WinWin (Beta)

Kun   - NEO Pack; V faction Leader, dark red (Phantom era)

Scent - Eucalyptus and Spearmint

Ten  - NEO Pack; V faction, short black hair (Love Talk era)

Scent - Vanilla and Lilac

WinWin  - NEO Pack; V faction, light pinkish-brown(?) hair (Chain era)

Scent - Lemongrass and Lavender

YangYang (Omega) / Xia ojun   (Omega) / Hendery (Beta)

YangYang  - NEO Pack; V faction, multi-colored hair (Low Low MV)

Scent - Mangoes

Xiaojun  - NEO Pack; V faction, long pink hair (IDK the era, pls help)

Scent - Peaches and Cream

Hendery  - NEO Pack; V faction, black hair (Take Off era)

Scent - Lemongrass

San (Omega)  / Seonghwa (Omega)

San  - ATEEZ pack,  cropped dark blue hair (Fever Epilogue era)

Scent - Spearmint (becomes sweet and milky with a hint of mint during pregnancy)

Seonghwa  - ATEEZ pack, pastel pink hair (Fever Epilogue era)

Scent - Daises and Lilies

Jongho (Beta) / Yeosang (Omega)

Jongho  - ATEEZ pack, purple hair (Bouncy era)

Scent - Sugared Almonds and dark chocolate

Yeosang  - ATEEZ pack, aqua hair (The World Ep. 1 era)  

Scent - Millk and Honey

Yunho (Beta) / Wooyoung (Beta)

Yunho  - ATEEZ pack, dark green hair (Wave era :') )

Scent - Fresh Laundry

Wooyoung  - ATEEZ pack, purple hair (Treasure Ep. 1 era)

Scent - Pumpkin

I know this seems really crazy, but it is. Please join me for this if you are a little unhinged cause I think we will  have a fun time together. 

Chapter Text

Hongjoong glared at the back of Seonghwa’s head, crossing his arms over his chest. The older was putting freshly baked muffins into a basket, chuckling as he glanced over his shoulder at Hongjoong’s irritated form. “Yunho-yah is busy with Wooyoungie today and Jongho and Yeosangie are helping me with chores. Mingi is working at the market stand with Sannie.” He turned to look at Hongjoong again. “You are the only one that can take these to Maddox hyung. I promised to deliver a batch to him and unless you want to scrub the bathroom  so that I can go, you are going-” Seonghwa’s tone was final, not leaving any room for argument.

Hongjoong rolled his eyes, sighing. He may have been pack leader, but Seonghwa was his hyung and co-leader. “Fine…” He had walked over to the counter to stand next to Seonghwa, watching as the taller Omega rearranged things in the basket. 

He wanted to remain frustrated and mad, but it wasn’t possible in the kitchen. He loved the smell in the kitchen after his only hyung baked. Today in particular, the room smelled of chocolate and cherries from the cherry danishes and chocolate muffins. He wanted to wrap himself in the scent like a blanket, his muscles relaxing. Something about cherries and chocolate always relaxed him and he had no idea as to why. He let go of a sigh. “This will give me a reason to go to the market. I need to pick up some more suppressants anyways, I ran out last month and my heat is due to start soon.”

“You should stop taking the suppressants for a month or so, Joongie… It’s been a few years, it really isn’t healthy to push your heat off for so long.” Seonghwa knew there would be a rebuttal, there always was. Hongjoong shot down the idea every single time he or any of their packmates would bring it up.

The younger Omega frowned deeper. “You know I can’t Hwa. I would prefer to not have it so that I can take care of all of you. If I have my heat, I won’t be able to take care of anyone and I won’t even be able to take care of myself. I do not want to weaken the pack.” He walked over to the windowsill and picked up the tiny vile that had once been filled with round pills. His prescription. 

It was Seonghwa’s turn to pout and cross his arms. “We can care for each other, we always do. We can take care of you… Joongie, don’t you want to settle down and have pups some day? If you keep taking those, you may not be able to.” Hongjoong looked back to Seonghwa, brows furrowed. “Hwa, I don’t even have a partner and I probably never will. I’ve told you before. I am content with how I am. Being a pack leader basically means caring for many, grown children . I have no time to go out and meet anyone and… I don’t want to. Besides, when all of you decide you want to start having children, I can play with them and help raise them. You and Sannie are having a pup and that is good enough for me! I can still hold and play with a baby but I don’t have to do any of the work that comes with having one.” At that, Seonghwa rolled his eyes.

Everything that Seonghwa was saying was affecting him, but he didn’t have a partner, so there was no use in him worrying about infertility and being upset that he didn’t have a partner. He could be happy with his packmates being happy. They would have families and he could be the fun uncle. 

He would enjoy having pups of his own one day, but it just wasn’t something that he could see happening. He left the kitchen after that, mood feeling a little sour. Seonghwa noticed Hongjoong’s normally extremely sweet scent was now dulled, being hardly noticeable. He knew how Hongjoong truly felt and guilt flooded his own scent, his gaze shifting down to his feet. He had known for a while now that Hongjoong actually wanted a family of his own but he would never bring it up for fear that he would hurt the other’s pride.

He turned back to the oven to put attention back onto the cinnamon rolls he was baking. He had decided to make them for San and Mingi. Mingi’s heat was nearly here and he wanted to make a pick-me-up for him, knowing that he was going to be spending his heat alone once more. A cinnamon roll couldn’t make his omega feel fulfilled, but it would fill his belly and make him feel cared for and loved. Seonghwa would do all that he could to make sure his packmates felt as comfortable as possible. 

For Sannie, the cinnamon rolls were to fulfill a craving. His boyfriend had craved cinnamon on everything and making him cinnamon rolls was better than watching him ruin Wooyoung’s home cooked dinners with ground cinnamon.

After upsetting Hongjoong, Seonghwa decided that he would make a blueberry cream pie to try and brighten Hongjoong’s mood when he returned home later. Truly, he solved all problems with baking.

Hongjoong went to his room, forced to take a deep breath and calm down. His heart ached in a way that was easy to ignore, so he shook his head and got himself dressed in a thicker sweater and thick wool lined pants. He immediately grabbed his cloak from its place and swaddled himself in its warmth. San and Wooyoung had bought him the bright cobalt blue hooded cloak last winter because it “fit his personality.” He knew that this was a children’s cloak, but it fit him well and it was extremely warm. He also loved the color. He would never let his packmates know, but he absolutely adored it. Hongjoong slipped on his fur lined boots and then looked at himself in the mirror. It was almost laughable. Without doing a double-take, he could be mistaken for a tall middle schooler. Hongjoong grumbled to himself about needing to start working out with Yeosang, Mingi, and Jongho as he pulled his hood up, going back out to the kitchen. By this time, his scent was nearly normal, sweetness wafting off of him as he approached Seonghwa.

The elder looked up at Hongjoong and smiled a bit, noticing that Hongjoong was already feeling a bit better. His scent was indistinguishable as any one thing. Sweet and tantalizingly fruity. He smelled like a fruit salad with a not so subtle hint of vanilla. “For someone who hates that cloak, you sure do wear it a lot.” He passed the basket over to Hongjoong and the younger took it, rolling his eyes. 

“It is warmer than my other coats and cloaks.” He took the basket from Seonghwa and then looked up to the elder to see if he had anything else that he needed to say. 

“Do you know the way?” Hongjoong nodded again. He had visited Maddox plenty of times.

“Straight through the woods, turn left at the mill and then his house is by the lake.” Hongjoong made sure the basket was securely closed before looking up at the older Omega.

Seonghwa smiled again. “Alright. Be back before supper, I can’t guarantee that the kids won’t eat it all if you aren’t home for it.”

Once again, Hongjoong nodded. “Yes, mom~” His lips upturned into a small smirk as Senghwa flushed. The older shook his head. “Get going before it gets colder than it already is- Check on Mingi and Sannie when you go to get your suppressant please!” Hongjoong did not wait for another word, promptly leaving the house as he waved at Seonghwa. 

He heard Seonghwa call after him about grabbing his gloves, but he was already going down the path to the dense woodlands. If he walked fast enough, he could get this trip done in under two hours and could help Yeosang and Mingi gather what they would need to build their nests before Seonghwa and Wooyoung had dinner ready. 

After a few minutes, Hongjoong realized that it was colder than he had thought. A shiver went down his spine and he huffed out a white puff of air. He wished he would have gone back to retrieve his gloves as his hand holding the basket was already starting to hurt from the chill in the air. He cursed himself for his own laziness and he began to switch the basket from hand to hand every few minutes, keeping his other snuggly tucked into the pocket of his cloak. Hongjoong grumbled once more, continuing on his walk, trying to focus on a song that he had been working on in his spare time. 

Yuta sighed as he looked over at the house from where he sat next to Chenle, Jeno and Johnny. Even from outside, he could smell the pheromones. Taeyong had thought it would be best to gather everyone in their pack house as soon as the Omegas started going into preheat. The eight Omegas had not synced their heat cycles in nearly three years, so it was overwhelming and very stressful, especially for the three Betas that were tasked with caring for a household of heat crazed Omegas and their partners. Jungwoo stayed elsewhere as he had a heat partner, but still, 6 Omegas under one roof was a lot to handle.

Yuta had just returned from a supply run. Sicheng had asked him to get more blankets from the V House and more washing detergent from Dream House. The Beta had looked completely exhausted, having spent the last 24 hours trying to take care of his three youngest packmates, as well as helping Kun care for Ten. Poor Hendery had to deal with his two Omegan partners by himself and Sicheng was left to do what he could to help. YUta couldn’t even imagine how difficult it was. Taeyong was able to stay within the home, unaffected by the pheromones that were filling the air. He had been cooking all morning to supply enough food for the household, making sure everyone kept taking in enough calories and making them all drink water. Kun helped Taeyong with cleaning and chores while Ten slept or when Sicheng was with him. 

Chenle and Jeno had been chopping wood and gathering supplies so that the fire in the house would stay lit and they made sure that there was enough drinking water for everyone in the hosue. Sungchan had been able to help Jaemin, Renjun, and Sicheng as Shotaro was the most docile of the Omegas, choosing to sleep off his heat in the comfort of his nest. Due to Doyoung’s heat being extremely mild, even Jaehyun had been able to lend a hand in helping with chores. All in all, the Neo Pack was extremely busy. 

The four alphas without Omega partners were unable to do much of anything unless someone from within the house asked them to do something. They could not go inside the house for fear that it might upset some of the Omega’s. For most of the last two days, they had been sitting outside the 127 Pack House, often just moping about (Chenle and Jeno were especially pouty). Taeyong had asked them all to go back to one of the other Pack homes, not liking that they were sitting outside in the cold. Alphas being alphas, they truly were not affected by it that much, so they chose to stay where they were. Jeno and Chenle were waiting to see their hardworking Betas while Johnny was waiting for Taeyong. Yuta was just there so that he didn’t have to sit alone.

The four Alphas looked up when they heard the front door close. Kun had a basket in his hands, smiling as he came over to them. If he was coming out of the house, it must mean that Ten was finally getting some sleep. He looked tired but he must have just bathed because he did not smell of his Omega partner.

Johnny spoke what they all surely were thinking. “You look exhausted. Is Tennie finally resting?” 

“I got Sicheng to lay down with him for a while.” Yuta couldn’t even imagine what they were all going through in that house. Kun looked like he had been through hell and back.  

“Does Taeyong hyung need some help?” Jeno asked and Kun shook his head, smiling at the younger gently. “No, and none of you can go in right now. Renjun and Hendery are having a hard time settling YangYang, and Xiaojun. If any more alpha’s go into that house, it might make them more upset.” Jeno nodded slightly, frowning. He missed Jaemin and wondered how his mate was coping. He hadn’t seen the other in nearly three days and the alpha was feeling quite upset about it. 

“Didn’t Sungchan go in to help with them?” Chenle piped up. Kun nodded again. “Yeah. Shotaro has been asleep for almost two days. Sungchannie has been helping Renjunnie since he only really needs to make sure Taro is getting enough nutrients and water.” Yuta smiled as he listened. Shotaro was like a little brother to him and he was glad to know that he was doing alright. “It's probably best if you all go back to one of the other pack homes. I know the cold isn’t going to bother you, but Taeyong is upset since you all are out here. I think this one could last a few more days.” Kun handed the basket to Johnny and the taller Alpha opened it, smiling at the home cooked meal that was inside. “Taeyong wants you to go home and eat.” Kun added, Johnny nodding to him. 

“How is Doyoung? Still more lethargic than normal?” Johnny liked to get updates on his pack members,  not liking that he couldn’t check on them himself.

“He’s been sleeping more too. Jaehyun said he holds him in a death grip though so I haven’t seen him much.” Kun ruffled his hair, letting out a sigh. “All of them going into heat at once really has them riled up. Even Mark is...” Kun tried to think of the words to explain the normally docile Omegan leader. “Well... Active. I almost thought Tennie was never gonna sleep… Sicheng came in at just the right time.” Kun smiled, exhaustion evident in his expression. 

Johnny nodded at him. “You should get some rest too. Go curl up with Ten and Sicheng.” Kun nodded at him again and smiled a little brighter. “I will. I just needed some air.” 

Johnny looked back down at the basket. “Tell Tae that I will bring him dinner later. I know he is probably neglecting himself for the others right now.” He stood up and looked at the two younger alphas. “Let's go back and get some rest, waiting out here and pouting won’t do us any good.” He patted them both on the shoulders and they leaned close to him. Johnny was not a pack leader, but he often took on roles of one so that Taeyong would not need to carry the weight alone. He glanced back at Yuta and tilted his head. “Are you coming, Yu?”

Yuta shook his head. “Not yet. I am going to wait out here in case they need me to go and get anything else.” Johnny nodded slightly and then led the younger alphas away, going in the direction of the Dream Pack house. Kun waited until they were gone before he turned to Yuta. “I know it isn’t my place to ask… But have you thought about looking for a mate? I know you aren’t really interested in looking for one… I just worry that you’ll feel lonely.” The question made Yuta feel icy inside. The cold weather hadn’t really been bothering him, but that question made him feel as if he had been buried in a snowbank. He knew his body tensed up and his pheromones became stronger, more bitter, the smell of rotting cherries wafted from his form.

Kun frowned. “I didn’t mean it in a bad way. I just… I worry about you. You and Jisung don’t have a mate and… I just worry…” At the genuine compassion in his expression, Yuta began to relax. Kun always meant well. Yuta looked down at his feet and released a deep breath, trying to mellow out his scent. “I don’t know. I just haven’t found the right person yet. I… I don’t know what I want.”

Kun nodded and then frowned a bit more. “Tennie and I will help you look once he is feeling better if you want. He knows almost everyone in the village.” Yuta wasn’t able to look up at the older. He felt shame flooding his system as it did every single time this conversation was brought up to him. He spent his ruts alone, he was unmated, he was not seeing anyone, and he was lonely . 

Kun noticed the subtle note of decay that had been added to Yuta’s scent and he decided to back off from the subject, not wanting to upset him further. “You’ve been out running errands for us all day. You should really go and get some rest. Tennie is calmed enough now that I can run out if they need me to.” Yuta nodded, not really listening to the other alpha. He had already turned away from him, shoving his hands in his pockets. Kun watched as he started down the wooded path, feeling guilty as he noticed how muted Yuta’s normally dark chocolate cherry scent was. 

Yuta and Jisung were the only ones in the pack who were unmated and the two of them were questioned constantly about why they never brought anyone home. For Yuta, the answer was simple. He hadn’t found the right person yet and he was waiting to spend his ruts with his fated partner and not just any random person that would help him through his cycle. He was tired of being questioned about it and really wished his packmates would back off. He loved them dearly, but his lack of a mate was none of their business.  

Feeling upset and needing to clear his head, he decided to go for a walk instead of going straight home. He followed the path into the dense woods. This was going in the opposite direction of the pack homes but it would lead him towards the little village. It was still early in the morning, so he decided to go and pick up some pastries from the stall in the market. Jeno, Chenle, and Jisung would enjoy the desserts and it might even brighten their moods. He hadn’t seen Jisung since last night and he was a little worried about their youngest Alpha. Recently, he had been sneaking away, returning when everyone was asleep. He had meant to ask Jisung about it this morning, but the younger had already been gone by the time that Yuta woke up. 

He sighed and focused on the woodlands around him, finding comfort in the cool air. It had been some time since he was able to just enjoy a walk. They had been busy, Yuta helping Johnny and Taeyong manage the three packs, specifically balancing the peculiar dynamics of their pack. It had only recently been decided that they would split into three groups. Twenty-two hormonal pack members under one roof had nearly torn them all apart. 

Yuta let himself drift, mind wandering around different subjects as he went deeper into the forest. A left turn brought him into the bustling market where he eagerly went up to the baked goods stand nestled in the middle and bought all of their cinnamon rolls.

The village was bustling with activity. Stalls lined both sides of the dirt road, happy clerks greeting villagers that walked past them. Nestled in the middle of the crowd was a little stand that’s table was covered in a variety of baked goods. A small banner hung down the front reading, ‘Hwa’s Sweets’ . Two Omega’s sat quietly, both still sleep dazed and limbs stiff from the cold. The taller of the two looked to the man nearly dozing at his right. “San-ah…” He nudged him with his foot and the other blinked open his eyes in surprise. “We still need to put out the price signs that Sangie made.”

The shorter whined and pouted at the other. “It’s too cold to stay awake, I want to sleep.” He kept his arms wrapped securely around his slightly rounded belly, keeping himself and his pup as warm as he could. 

The eldest of their pack had made them come out today to sell sweets in the bitter cold. Mingi used to come himself, but with the amount of Alpha’s in the area rising, and Mingi’s heat growing nearer, Seonghwa wanted them to run the stall in pairs. San had volunteered despite his current condition as he knew that everyone else had plans and he didn’t want any of his other packmates to have their day ruined. San noticed that Mingi looked distracted. He kept scanning the crowd, looking for someone. 

Mingi really didn’t mind being out here like this. Sure, it was cold and a bit uncomfortable, he would surely prefer being in his bed than being out here. But working at the stall meant that he would be able to see him. San glanced at the taller Omega and it was his turn to roll his eyes. “If I am going to be the third wheel today, Mingi, I am going home to take a hot bath-”  

The taller Omega rolled his eyes, sighing as he stood up. “Believe me, if you are going to be my third wheel, I will beg you to go home myself.” Mingi started to pull out the hand-painted signs, placing them where they needed to be. Cinnamon Rolls, Cherry Danishes, Sweet Bread, Rhubarb Pie, Lemon Bars, Chocolate Chunk Muffins. 

Song Mingi was one of the many Omegas in the Ateez pack. They were a peculiar pack that had no alpha, consisting of five Omegas, and three Betas. He had always been the quiet one among his packmates and despite being an Omega all his life, he had never once looked for a mate. He, much like their pack leader, was unmated. Unlike Hongjoong though, he was not single and he had a heat partner. His boyfriend , a young Alpha from a nearby pack had been kept as a secret from his own. San had only found out by accident during Mingi’s last heat cycle and he had promised not to tell anyone as long as Mingi did his house chores for six months - now until the pup was born .

Mingi chose to work in the early mornings because it meant that he would get to see the gentle Alpha that had stolen his heart. As the Alpha was part of the Neo Pack, he had not wanted to tell anyone from his own, knowing how protective his hyungs could become. Hongjoong would most likely throw a fit and he could feel Seonghwa’s disappointment already. They had formed as a pack early and had been together since they were all still teenagers. Mingi being with an Alpha from another pack could threaten the dynamic of his own. As the thoughts overwhelmed him, he sighed and shut his eyes. 

San could smell the sour notes in his normally sweet lemon scent and he looked over to the younger. He had been trying to convince Mingi to tell their hyungs.  “Mingi…” He set down the glass pan that held the lemon bars and frowned a bit wider. “You really should tell Hongjoong hyung. I think he would understand.” San and Mingi had spoken of this before, but it always ended with Mingi refusing.

Mingi shook his head. “Hyung will be upset. Disappointed. You know him, Sannie… He and Seonghwa would never approve…” Mingi had sat back down, feeling himself become more cold, body chilled as he became more upset. Santook hold of his hand, squeezing it gently. He knew Mingi was very near his heat starting, so his emotions were high and he was stressed out, having been away from his Alpha. “Our hyungs will understand, Mingi-ah. They have only ever wanted what is best for us. How about you tell Yeosangie and Yunho next? They will help you tell Hongjoong hyung.” He pet the younger Omega’s hair back, smiling at him reassuringly. Mingi gave him a slight nod and then released a trembling breath. He had his eyes shut again and San could tell that he was near tears. 

San pulled back to give him a moment and he settled the cupcakes into the little glass dome, sitting next to Mingi once he had finished. He wrapped an arm around the younger Omega and rubbed his shoulder, releasing some pheromones to make Mingi feel safe and calmed. Milky sweetness tinged with mint immediately wrapped around Mingi like a soothing blanket. His shoulders dropped. 

“Is your Alpha coming to visit today?” Mingi gave a slight nod and San smiled at him again. “Good. You smell like rotting lemons though… He will be disgusted if he comes up to you like this!” He pinched Mingi’s cheek and the taller flushed in embarrassment, allowing his scent to mellow out once more. He sighed and shut his eyes, relaxing as San’s spearmint scent surrounded him. 

An Alpha came up to the stall inquiring to buy some cinnamon rolls. Mingi couldn’t put his finger on why his scent was so familiar as he packed up a box to go. He supposes its due to the fact that the Alpha smelled very much like their home kitchen had that morning. Chocolate and cherries. 

Chapter Text

Jisung woke up just as the sun was rising. Immediately, he noticed how achey he felt. His head had hurt last night so he went to bed early. He had hoped it was due to the stress of the past week but now he was realizing he was just sick. With a sigh, he begrudgingly got out of bed to start getting himself ready for the day.  He tiptoed into the bathroom and did what he needed to care for himself, showering and taking some cold medicine to try and chase away the aches and oncoming fever. The young alpha then went back to his room, quietly closing the door behind him. He grabbed a duffle bag and quickly stuffed his sheets and some clothing into it. He chose his favorite jacket and even managed to stuff his favorite pillow in as well. He thought about leaving through the front door, but he didn’t want to risk waking any of his hyungs and having to explain what he was doing. Instead, Jisung hopped out the window. He lived in a first floor room, so it truly was no hard task to accomplish. Before even Johnny hyung had woken up, Jisung was gone and walking down the dirt path leading away from the Neo Pack homes.

The Alpha made his way down the familiar path within the woods, a smile placed on his face. Despite feeling a little under the weather, he was feeling happy. He was taking more supplies to Mingi’s nest. His Omega would be going into heat soon and he would be staying with him for it, this time. It was his job to bring supplies for Mingi’s nest and he was taking this very seriously. He had already told his packmates that he was going away to visit his family . It wasn’t a complete lie, technically. 

Jisung hoped that if Mingi had enough of his scent in the nest, it would help him relax. Mingi’s last heat had been intense and very hard on him, especially because Jisung hadn’t been able to be with him or even scent him. The Alpha was planning on dowsing his dear Omega in his scent. 

He managed to get to the little shack just as the world around him began to fully wake up. Opening the door, he looked inside, fondness brewing within his heart. It was a cozy mess of blankets, clothing, and pillows. Jisung could smell all of Mingi’s packmates here. He smiled and set his bag of things down, just outside of the nest, knowing Mingi would place it when he returned later. He had planned on going to the market to meet Mingi as he always did in the mornings, but he still wasn’t feeling very well. Perhaps taking a small nap would help his body function. Slowly, he removed his shoes and then stepped into the threshold, immediately comforted as Mingi’s distinct lemon scent wafted around him. His body relaxed and he laid down, sighing happily as he nuzzled into Mingi’s pillow. He often came to Mingi’s nest to wait for him, loving the comfort this space gave him. He wished that Mingi was here, but he knew he would see his Omega later when he went to meet him at the stand.

Just being surrounded by the scent of lemonade made Jisung feel safe and happy. His Alpha was soothed, knowing that his Omega was well and happy. The sickness that had caused him to feel sluggish and uncomfortable was no longer at the forefront of his mind. In only minutes, Jisung began to doze off, snuggled up in Mingi’s nest. It wasn’t unusual for him to nap here, especially with how little he had been sleeping. It was most likely the lack of sleep in addition to the stress that caused his immune system to falter. All of the Omega’s in the Neo pack had simultaneously gone into heat. The pack was under a lot of stress and as the youngest Alpha, he had been doing all he could to support his hyungs. That included going on errand runs and doing more house chores than usual to pick up for the members that were not able to. The tension within his pack had been enough to ruin his sleep schedule and picking up the extra slack around the pack homes had left him exhausted.

With his head on Mingi’s pillow and his arms wrapped around a pile of blankets, Jisung drifted off, feeling warmth all around him.

Seonghwa had only wanted to drop off clean sheets to Mingi’s little shack. He knew that with both Yeosang and Mingi going into heat soon, they would need plenty of nesting materials. He opened the door and almost immediately, his nose picked up on a distinct citrus twinged green tea scent. The scent of an Alpha. He froze in the doorway, goosebumps rising across his body. His eyes scanned the mess of bedding and clothes, landing on the lump in the middle. A tuft of dark blue hair was sticking out from under a blanket. The musk clinging to the green tea scent was undeniable and his Omega trembled in fear. He quickly shut the door, locking the shack from the outside. His heart was racing, brain trying to come up with an explanation as to why there was an Alpha sleeping in Mingi’s nest. He wondered if he should call the authorities. Perhaps that was a pervert trying to sneak up on his Omegan packmate… After thinking for another moment, he wondered if perhaps this Alpha was there with Mingi’s permission. It would make more sense since there weren’t even any Alpha's in this area… 

He took a steadying breath, placing a hand to his chest. His heart was thundering, its beats pulsing beneath his trembling fingers. The Omega stared at the locked shack, not even blinking. In all his years within this pack, he had never thought that one of his pack members would bring an Alpha home, and not tell ANYONE. Seonghwa shook his head. Mingi would never lie to them. He was one of the behaved ones in their group. Frozen for a few moments, Seonghwa tried to piece together information. Mingi had refused to spend his last two heats in their home, preferring to stay out in this tiny shack. He also refused to allow anyone into his shack while he was in heat, only letting San enter to bring him food and water. 

Now that he really thought about it, Mingi had been keeping his heats to himself for months now, even before he had moved into the shack. If he had found a heat partner or even… a mate, Mingi wouldn’t have told any of his hyungs out of worry that they would be upset. Seonghwa looked back at the shack, deep frown on his lips. He needed answers and he needed them, now . Not thinking rationally, Seonghwa took off running in the direction of the village.

Mingi sighed as he looked down at the table of baked goods. The sun was up and the entire village was already here. Well, almost the entire village. His Alpha still hadn’t come. A raven haired Alpha had come and purchased all of their cinnamon rolls and they had already managed to sell most of their goods. They were left with only lemon bars, cherry danishes and some sweet bread. Once their stock was all sold, they would pack up and leave. If they left before Jisung even arrived, he would not get to see his Alpha for another day at least…

He let his eyes search over the crowd of people. He was not surprised that it was busy in the market today. Everyone in this area was used to the bitter cold and none allowed it to keep them away from the only social gathering within walking distance. He drifted to staring at the woods, hoping to see navy hair and a tall lithe form. Instead, he noticed a very familiar figure with vibrant pink hair, rushing towards them and his eyes widened. He looked to his right and shook San’s arm slightly, grabbing his attention. The blue haired man titled his head in confusion and then looked to where Mingi was pointing. 

“Hwa?” He was already standing, worry causing his normally sweet spearmint scent to sour. The eldest Omega reached them, panting. His nose and cheeks were tinged pink from exertion and the cold, matching his hair and multicolored sweater, perfectly. San removed his coat, forgetting about his own needs as he wrapped it around Seonghwa’s shoulders. “Baby, what's wrong?” He took Seonghwa’s hands, kneading them with his own to try and warm his chilled fingers. He was caring by nature, always putting others before himself, even with a pup in his belly and the need to be taken care of resting upon his shoulders. 

Seonghwa looked from San to Mingi, eyes still wide as he tried to catch his breath. He was still in a bit of a panic, trying to understand what he had seen. “Mingi-yah… Why-why is there an Alpha in your shack?”

The mentioned Omega’s eyes went wide and he swallowed. “He… uh.. He is my… my boyfriend…” Mingi felt his face growing warm and San grabbed his hand, squeezing it. Mingi felt like he was spinning, anxiety causing his scent to turn into sour and rotting lemons. He noticed that Seonghwa and San looked blurry and it wasn’t until he felt the icy wind hit his cheeks that he realized he had involuntarily began to cry. Damn, hormonal emotions. Quickly, he wiped his cheeks with the back of his hand, taking a step away from his packmates and pulling his wrist away from San. He wasn’t ready to tell his hyungs. Especially not Hongjoong. 

Before he could say anything else, more tears began to cascade down his cheeks. Seonghwa’s entire demeanor changed in an instant. “No, no. no…” He pulled Mingi in for a hug, keeping him close as the younger Omega trembled. “I’m not mad.” He petted his back softly and then glanced over at San, nodding to him as he passed the man’s jacket back. San took the message and then went back to the stand, letting his mate handle it. He slipped his coat back on, watching the two Omegas with a deep frown. 

Seonghwa pulled away from Mingi, wiping his tears away with the sleeve of his sweater. “Let's go back and talk about this, okay? I’m not upset at you… I was just worried and confused.” Mingi sniffled, nodding at the elder Omega. Seonghwa kept an arm wrapped around him, frowning as he looked over his shoulder and called to their packmate. “San-ah, I will send Jongho to come and run the stand with you. Will you be okay by yourself for a bit?”

The blue haired Omega nodded, sending his mate a reassuring smile. “I will, hyung!” He waved them off and Seonghwa put his attention back onto Mingi, leading him back to their home. He knew that Hongjoong would most likely be upset, so he understood Mingi’s reaction, especially with his hormones as high as they were in his current state. “Mingi-yah, I need you to explain everything that you can before we get back.” The taller Omega nodded his head and began talking, gripping to his hyung’s arm as they walked. 

Hongjoong had gotten to Maddox’s house rather quickly but when he discovered that the Alpha was not home, he left the basket on the kitchen table with a note before he left. He was now back on the same dirt path that would eventually lead him home, but he needed to stop by the market and pick up some new suppressants. Hongjoong was humming to himself as he walked, going over the melody to a song he had been working on with Mingi. He knew he could never become a singer, but he still wanted to create music for himself and his friends. It was his hobby and his greatest joy. 

His humming turned into quiet singing and from there, he began rapping, his voice quiet at first, but growing louder as he walked. “Slow it down. Make it bouncy, jigeumbuteo fly. Jom dareun spicy, cheongyanggochu vibe. If you wanna know how, I can show you right now. Urin mandeulji bouncy, buri buteo fly…” He was too caught up with his rapping to notice that a figure was watching him from behind a tree. 

Yuta had just gotten back onto the path after stopping for cinnamon rolls. He was holding the box close to his chest, feeling a little happier with the sweet scent wafting up from the fresh pastries. He was about to make the turn to the Dream Pack house when he stopped, his nose assaulted by the sweetest scent he had ever smelled. An Omega . He could hear them singing and a flush lit up his cheeks. Not knowing what to do, he hid behind a tree, peaking out to catch a glimpse of the approaching man. 

He tilted his head, smiling when he finally saw who was passing him. A rather short Omega with split-dyed hair and a bright blue cloak was bouncing a bit as he rapped. Yuta put a hand to his mouth to hold back the giggle that nearly burst forth. This Omega made him feel as if sunlight had filled his entire being. It had been so long since he had felt so lighthearted. He couldn’t distinguish what the sweet scent was, but he could tell it was fruity. He normally wasn’t a fan of overly sweet scents, but he could become addicted to this one. 

Yuta leaned out from the tree a bit more, not ready for the Omega to leave his view. He accidentally dropped the box in his grasp and he cursed, quickly bending down to snatch it from the ground. 

At Yuta’s curse, Hongjoong whipped around, frowning deeply. To Yuta, it looked like the most adorable pout that he had ever seen. The Alpha felt his pheromones rise and he cleared his throat. “S-Sorry…” Never had an Omega made him feel shy like this. “I um… I was walking and I heard you rapping. You have a really nice voice.” ‘ He will think I am a stalker now, great Yuta! Good job!’

Hongjoong frowned a bit, looking the Alpha up and down. He had never seen him before. Immediately, he became defensive and he put his hand into his pocket, fumbling to grip onto the pocket knife he had with him. He didn’t trust Alpha’s. He’d had too many bad experiences in the past and he wasn’t willing to let anyone try to overpower him. 

Yuta noticed the sweet scent starting to smell smokey and he put the hand that was not holding his cinnamon rolls up. “I didn’t mean to startle you.” The Omega just stared at him, hand still gripping the knife in his pocket. He did not take chances. He knew that he was no match for nearly any Alpha due to his size and their strength, but he was sure as hell always ready to fight when he needed to. The Omega squared his shoulders and took in a deep breath, schooling his expression into a blank stare. “What do you want?”

Yuta was a little surprised by how cold the other man sounded and he cleared his throat, rubbing the back of his neck. “Uh… I was just walking home actually… I heard you and stopped to listen.” He mellowed out his scent, not wanting to upset the obviously intimidated Omega. He shifted, looking down at the earth beneath his feet. “I didn’t mean to seem like a creep…”

“Then you shouldn’t hide behind trees and stalk people.” Hongjoong was not ready to let go of the knife, still not feeling comfortable around the Alpha.

“I… I know… I just...” The Alpha was at a loss of words. He normally had a silver tongue and was able to get himself out of any situation, but he really didn’t like being seen as a predator to an Omega. 

Hongjoong frowned at him, seeing the dejected look on the other person's face. He didn’t trust the Alpha, but he could tell that he was being sincere. Hongjoong was pretty good at reading people, and this Alpha actually seemed harmless. He let go of the pocket knife, exhaling the breath he had been holding. He glanced at the box in the Alpha’s hand and recognized the painted bunnies on the side. Yeosang’s painting. “What did you get from Hwa’s stand?”

Yuta looked down at the box and almost immediately, he was smiling again. Hongjoong felt his heart stutter. ‘ This Alpha is beautiful.’  

“Cinnamon rolls. They are for my packmates. All of our Omega’s went into heat and the Alpha’s without an Omega mate have been a little miserable.” Yuta wondered what pack the Omega was part of as he didn’t recognize him or his scent. “My name is Yuta. I’m part of NEO Pack. We live on the other side of the river.”

Hongjoong thought about it for a moment before replying. “Hongjoong. Leader of ATEEZ pack.” The pack name lit a spark of recognition in Yuta’s head. 

“ATEEZ? Is your pack the all Omega-Beta pack?” Hongjoong allowed himself to relax a bit now, not seeing Yuta as a threat. 

“It is.” He shifted, starting to feel the cold seep into his bones. Standing in one place was not helping him keep warm. He silently cursed for not being more prepared. 

Yuta noticed Hongjoong’s shivering and quickly took his coat off, holding it out to the Omega. “Here. The cold really doesn’t bother me.” He wanted the Omega to have his scent, he didn’t even know why, he just needed it to happen. Likely, his Alpha had taken a liking to Hongjoong’s Omega and Yuta was more than happy to comply. “It's no problem, I have plenty of coats at home!”

Hongjoong hesitated for a moment before grabbing it from the Alpha, putting it on underneath his cloak. He sighed, warmth immediately enveloping him. He almost felt dizzy from how good the Alpha’s scent was. It was as if Seonghwa had just baked dark chocolate and cherry cake. He inhaled, his entire body relaxing and his mind momentarily feeling hazy. Yuta had not been close enough for Hongjoong to properly catch his scent until now. He felt a little sleepy, comforted by the coat that was enveloping him. Hongjoong blinked, forcing his Omega to calm down. “Thanks… Um… When do you want this back?” Honjoong’s cheeks flushed and he stuffed his hands back into the pockets of his cloak, looking away from the Alpha. He was feeling a little odd but he couldn’t explain what exactly felt odd. Perhaps his Omega just really enjoyed being near an Alpha. He really didn’t interact with any so it would make sense. 

“You can keep it.” Yuta rubbed the back of his neck again, taking in a steadying breath. It felt like his heart was going to beat out of his chest. “C-Can I help escort you home…? It really isn’t safe to be walking out here.” Yuta cut out the part about how Hongjoong’s scent was nearly intoxicating to him and most likely it would be to other Alphas.

“I’m not going home, but thank you for the offer.” Hongjoong fixed his hair, sweeping it back with his hand. He knew that Seonghwa would start to worry if he didn’t get back soon, but he still needed to stop by the market. 

“Can I escort you… wherever you’re going?” Yuta was trying to sound less shy, offering a warm smile towards the Omega. “I… I really have nowhere to be and I don’t like the thought of leaving you alone. There are a lot of Alpha’s on this side of the village…”

Hoongjoong stared at him in disbelief for a few seconds, not really sure what to say. No Alpha had ever asked to escort him anywhere before. He had been told by multiple Alpha’s that his scent was sickeningly sweet and it was often that he would be taunted due to his stature. “You… want to walk me back to the market? You already went there today…” He faced the Alpha to look him in the eyes. Now that Hongjoong was actually looking him over, he could see his raven hair was rather fluffy looking, the back of it nearly touching his shoulders. He was a handsome Alpha but that was to be expected of one of the NEO’s. They all somehow looked like they had been sculpted by the Gods. 

Yuta was holding the box close to his chest, biting his bottom lip. He didn’t understand why he needed to be close to this Omega but his Alpha was yearning to spend just a few more minutes by his side. “I promise I don’t have any ulterior motives, I just want to make sure you are safe…”

Hongjoong wasn’t sure why he felt safe being alone with an Alpha he just met, but his Omega was urging him to stay close to the Alpha. He gave a slight nod. “Sure. But I don’t need you to walk me home.” 

Yuta then nodded at him again. “Of course!” Just like that, the two of them began to walk back to the busy market, Yuta sparking up conversation and Hongjoong replying with polite and short answers.

By the time Mingi and Seonghwa were back to the shack, the taller Omega had calmed down entirely. He had explained that he had been seeing Jisung for a few months now and this was his third heat after they had started dating. 

Seonghwa had gone to tell Jongho that San needed his help at the market and then he went back to Mingi. The younger Omega had already unlocked the shack door. Unsurprisingly, Jisung was still nestled in the middle of the nest, sound asleep. Mingi sighed, a small smile causing the corners of his lips to upturn. Both males slipped off their shoes and Mingi carefully stepped into the nest. He sat down next to Jisung and lightly began to stroke his hair. Light snores were leaving his parted lips and Mingi felt his heart flutter at how soft his Alpha looked cuddled up in the pile of blankets. He could tell that Jisung wasn’t feeling well just by his scent, noticing it was a little muted compared to normal. He pressed his palm to Jisung’s forehead to gauge if he had a fever and after a minute, he came to the conclusion that the Alpha must be a little sick.  

“Sungie…” He nudged the Alpha lightly and the younger let out a soft whine. Mingi’s smile grew a little wider. 

Seonghwa stood in the doorway watching his packmate. Mingi looked so happy and so relaxed . It put his heart at ease. He had been worried about his younger packmate, not liking that he had been spending his heats alone. It turns out, he hadn’t been alone, he had been happy and loved and cared for. That was all that Seonghwa could ask for. Mingi looked up and nodded to his hyung, allowing him to enter his nest. Seonghwa stepped in but stayed on the outskirts, not wanting to startle the young Alpha. 

Mingi shook Jisung again, adding a little more force this time. Jisung whined louder. “Min…” His voice was deep from sleep, a little rough. A small smile appeared on his features and he nuzzled into the Omega’s thigh. “Good morning…” He wrapped an arm over Mingi’s leg and nuzzled close, deeply inhaling his sweet lemonade scent. 

Mingi continued to pet his freshly dyed hair. “Good morning, sleeping beauty.” The Omega gently moved hair away from his Alpha’s face. “You hadn’t come to the stall yet and I was wondering where you were.” 

Jisung hummed softly in acknowledgment. “I don’t feel well… Came for a nap. Needed my princess…” At his words, Mingi’s face flushed and he looked up to his hyung. Seonghwa was just smiling at the pair, heart warmed by their interactions. 

Mingi cleared his throat. “Sungie… My hyung came in earlier to drop off some blankets and he saw you sleeping here.” Jisung’s eyes widened and he pulled away, sitting up. He looked over to Seonghwa, ready to explain himself and argue if the need arose. His face was flushed from the fever and his hair was a little disheveled. Seonghwa thought he looked rather cute. 

“I’m not upset! I was just shocked. I didn’t expect to find an Alpha in Mingi’s nest.” He hoped that he wasn’t overwhelming the Alpha.  “My name is Seonghwa.” Jisung looked from the older Omega to the younger.

“This is my oldest hyung, not our pack leader. I’m glad it was him that found you and not Hongjoong hyung…” He rubbed Jisung’s back soothingly. “Seonghwa hyung takes care of us like a mother would. He was coming in here to bring me more blankets for my nest.” He laughed lightly and it was Seonghwa’s turn to flush. Jisung sighed, relaxing into his Omega’s side. He smiled at Seonghwa and nodded to him. “It is nice to meet you, Seonghwa hyung. Thank you for allowing me to stay…”

Seonghwa gave the younger a warm smile. “I’m glad that Mingi has someone to help him through his heats and care for him.” He looked at Mingi. “I’m going to go so that you two can have some space. You of course are welcome to stay for lunch, Jisung. I would invite you in but… I am not sure how Joongie will react…” He trailed off, rubbing the back of his neck. “I’ll bring your lunch here.”

Jisung smiled and waved his hands. “No, it's okay! My hyungs will be worried if I stay too long. I kinda left before any of them woke up…” He bit his lip and looked down at his lap. 

Mingi frowned a bit. “Sungie, I thought you were going to tell them about us.”

“I was going to! I… I wanted to, but all of the Omega’s in my pack went into heat simultaneously… Mark is in heat so I can’t tell him and Taeyong… I can’t bother him while he is so stressed.” The two Omega’s frowned. 

“Your packmates must be having a hard time. I am almost done baking a batch of pumpkin muffins. I will pack them up so that you can take them with you.”

“Are you sure? I don’t want to take them if you need the revenue…” He looked at his boyfriend with a frown etched deep onto his lips. 

Mingi gently stroked hair from his face, warmly smiling. “It's okay! Hyung only bakes pumpkin muffins for us because they are Yeosang and Yunho’s favorite. I can help him make more later.” 

Seonghwa nodded at Mingi’s words. “It’s no problem, really.” He was already standing up, smiling at the couple. “Let me know if you need anything.” Before Seonghwa coils even slip into his shoes, Mingi was speaking up. 

“Can you find the fever reducers we bought last month when Yeosangie was sick? I will come in to make some tea for Jisung later.”

Seonghwa gave his packmate a warm smile. “Stay here with Jisung. I’ll go make some tea and bring it with the medicine.” Not waiting for another word, Seonghwa left to give them some space. 

Mingi wrapped his arms around Jisung, nuzzling into him. He inhaled his earthy green tea scent and the Omega basically melted into the Alpha, body draping over him. He smelled just a little happier now. Perhaps he really did just miss Mingi.

 Jisung was still a bit sleepy and he reveled in Mingi’s warmth, wrapping his arms around him as well. “You smell so good, princess…” Jisung’s lips pressed into Mingi’s temple as he spoke and the Omega flushed at the pet name. “I’m sorry I didn’t get to the market today. I didn’t mean to nap for so long.” He trailed soft kisses from the peak of Mingi’s cheekbone, to his jaw, smiling as the Omega reciprocated his kisses, pressing his own lips to the shell of Jisung’s ear once they had pulled apart.

“You have a fever, Jisungie… You could have stayed home instead of walking in the cold to come here.”

“I missed you. It's more comfortable to sleep here…” Jisung moved his head to rest it against Mingi’s shoulder, deeply inhaling his scent. Mingi was the embodiment of freshly made lemonade. Sugary with a bite of citrus. Jisung was spellbound by the scent. 

“I’m about to go into pre-heat.” Mingi mumbled softly, hiding his face in jisung’s hair and inhaling. “I think it will start within the next day or so.” 

Jisung maneuvered Mingi into his lap. Though the older was taller than him, he fit comfortably in Jisung’s arms. Despite not feeling great, his number one priority was to take care of his Omega. “What can I do to help? Have your cramps started yet?” Jisung massaged circles into Mingi’s lower back, ready to start soothing away his pains. He was always very attentive to his Omega’s needs, especially around his heat. 

Mingi shook his head, shutting his eyes as he snuggled up into Jisung. “Not yet. I just want you, Sungie…” His deep voice spoke into Jisung’s skin. The Alpha was gently stroking through Mingi’s frosted pink hair, cradling him against his chest. Being younger than Mingi made him feel as if he needed to work even harder to prove that he was a good Alpha to his Omega. He would do anything for his princess . He pressed soft kisses to Mingi’s hairline, smiling down at the man in his lap.

“Do you want to nap some more? Maybe some snuggling will help.” Mingi smirked, kissing Jisung’s temple again. Jisung nuzzled his nose into Mingi’s scent gland and the older sighed in content. 

“That sounds amazing…” Jisung’s hot breath tickled Mingi’s skin and the Omega tightly wrapped his arms around his Alpha, pulling him to lay down. Pride and happiness swelled within Jisung, his Alpha bristling at the sweet scent radiating from his Omega. Jisung adjusted them both so they were snuggling in the middle of the nest, soft blankets pulled over them with plush pillows beneath their heads. Mingi maneuvered so that Jisung’s head was against his own chest, holding the Alpha close to himself. Jisung yawned, eyelids fluttering as sleep began to overtake him again. Mingi smiled and watched his Alpha fall deeper into his sleepy haze. Settling his arms around his boyfriend, Mingi fell asleep surrounded by the scent of green tea and citrus. 

Taeyong would be lying if he said ‘ I’m fine’ . In all honesty, the Alpha was at the end of his rope. Days of being the caretaker to an entire pack full of Omegas and their partners had taken its toll on him. He was a high strung mess and his body felt weak and strained. His neon green hair was pulled out of his face into a haphazard ponytail on the top of his head, strands sticking out haphazardly. He was wearing an apron covered in a variety of messes and foods, sweatpants rolled up to his knees and his t-shirt damp with sweat. He had not slept in at least a day, but he was starting to think that it had been longer than that. He had been cooking and doing laundry and cleaning for the past three days and he was beginning to feel a little delirious. He could feel a low rumbling in his stomach, but he ignored it, not really having the appetite to eat anything besides a protein bar. He knew he was dizzy from the lack of proper food and rest, but he had been staying hydrated, so at least there was that.

The Alpha looked around at the mess in his kitchen and he frowned. He was feeling miserable. All he wanted was a nice bath and to curl up against his boyfriend’s chest. Behind him, Kun was doing the dishes for him. Sicheng was with Ten, so he had come to help Taeyong get some chores done. The older of the two had just finished making breakfast and he was trying to figure out what he should do next. He was exhausted both physically and mentally. He had his hips resting against the counter, putting most of his weight against it to stave off the dizziness that was threatening to topple him over.

Jaemin came down the stairs and went straight to the kitchen. Like Renjun, he had been tasked with being a caretaker to all of the Omegas. He looked tired, but he still smiled when he saw his hyungs. “Taeyong hyung! Johnny hyung wanted you to go have lunch with him at Dream Pack House. You deserve a break” Kun, Jaehyun, Doyoung, Sungchan, and even the pack angel Shotaro had already tried to get the man to go get some air, but he had refused . He felt that it was his responsibility to care for all of them. He was the pack leader and they needed him. 

Taeyong shook his head. “I’m okay. I will eat something later, I’m not really hungry right now.” As if to expose his lie, his stomach let out a rather loud grumble, protesting its hunger to the world. He sighed and rubbed his stomach to try and soothe the gnawing ache. “Really, it’s fine... I still have to get some laundry done, I will eat after that.” He gave them a tight lipped smile, removing his apron. He was followed by not one, but two sets of footsteps and he stopped, looking behind him. Both Kun and Jaemin were now standing in front of him, Kun having his arms crossed and a deep frown etched on his lips. “Go. I am not letting you do anymore work around here until you go and take care of yourself. When was the last time you actually ate more than a granola bar?” Taeyong sighed and tried to think about when he had last eaten. He honestly could not come up with when but he knew that he had eaten a pot roast that Kun and Sicheng had made at some point recently. 

“Pot roast on um… Whatever day that was.” he looked back to the other Alpha and Kun shook his head in aggravation at the other Alpha’s lack of care for himself.

“That was the night before everyone went into heat! I mean it Lee Taeyong, out-” He began to push the older Alpha out of the home, Jaemin following behind them. The eldest was too tired to put up a fight, begrudgingly allowing himself to be pushed out into the cold. Kun looked to the Beta, handing him two coats. “Make sure you get him to Johnny.” Jaemin gave a sharp nod and then grabbed Taeyong’s arm. “Come on, hyung!”

With another sigh, Taeyong slipped on the coat that had been handed to him and then allowed the Beta to lead him back to Dream Pack House.

Johnny was just finishing making lunch for the younger Alphas in the house. He was by no means a cook, but anyone could make a pizza. He was pulling it out of the oven as the front door opened. Immediately he breathed in the scent of roses and soil, his mood mellowing and a smile coming to his lips. Taeyong was standing next to Jaemin in the doorway, looking rather small in one of Johnny’s coats. The elder looked up and despite his exhaustion, he smiled. “Johnny…” The taller of the two, set the hot pan down on the counter before removing the oven mittens from his hands. 

In two strides, he had his arms tightly wrapped around Taeyong and the shorter Alpha breathed in his scent, relaxing in his hold. Johnny placed soft kisses to Taeyong’s temple and his lips. “You said you would come over last night for dinner…” He brushed his nose against Taeyong’s scent gland, making sure to sooth his mate with his own rich coffee scent. He pecked the skin lightly and then brought Taeyong closer into his chest, hand gently massaging the back of his neck.

Taeyong sighed, his lips pressed against Johnny’s scent gland. “I was too busy. Xiaojun was having a particularly bad time. Kun, Hendery, and Sichengie weren’t able to calm him down so I had to stay with Junnie and YangYang until they slept.” He pulled back and smiled up at Johnny, the exhaustion bleeding from his body as he felt his boyfriend’s warmth. 

Johnny took his hand and kissed Taeyong’s knuckles, looking at how disheveled he was. “I just made a pizza. Why don’t you go and shower, then we can sit down and eat together.” Johnny looked to his left as the scent of fresh apples mixed with grass. Jamein was engulfed in Jeno’s bear hug. With Jaemin around, there would be one less sad and angsty Alpha wandering the house.

The taller pulled back as he put his attention back onto his partner. Taeyong tried to nuzzle closer. “Can we just go take a nap?”

“Baby, you will feel better if you get cleaned up first.” Johnny stroked Taeyong’s hair back and he leaned down to place another kiss to his lips, satiating him. 

“Join me?” Taeyong whispered, his lips still touching Johnny’s. “I don’t wanna do anything… I just… I need you.” Warmth bloomed in Johnny’s chest and his smile grew wider. He pressed his lips into Taeyong’s once more before pulling back completely. “Okay. Let's go take a bath then. Let me do all the work for you, Yongie.”

All of the tension that had been in Taeyong’s shoulders melted away, his fingers entwining with Johnny’s as the younger alpha led them to one of the bathrooms in Dream house. His muscles ached and his head throbbed, eyes straining. He still felt a little dizzy, but he felt safe next to Johnny, able to feel vulnerable. Johnny could see his exhaustion and the older man took the lead, doing everything for Taeyong. He knew his partner had a tendency to overwork himself for their pack and he was used to caring for him. Johnny stripped himself down and then undressed Taeyong, placing soft kisses to his shoulders and collarbones once he was out of his sweaty t-shirt. Johnny let his hands roam over Taeyong’s torso, eliciting soft sighs from the younger Alpha. Taeyong leaned into him, melting against the warmth. 

“You need to take breaks, baby. This isn’t healthy.” Johnny had started the bath before he began to strip them both down, keeping an eye on the water as it began to rise. He placed a gentle kiss on both of Taeyong's wrists, gently marking him with his own scent. He shut off the water when the bubbles were high enough and then Johnny then stepped into the tub, helping Taeyong step over the barrier in his half-asleep state. 

Taeyong settled against his partner's chest, sighing at the warm water that he was submerged in. “This is just what I needed, baby…” His words slurred slightly, eyes fluttering shut. He could fall asleep just like this. 

“Just relax.” Johnny whispered against the shell of his ear. He began to carefully wash the sweat and grime from Taeyong’s skin. The bath was sensual and intimate, giving Taeyong the closeness he had craved. Johnny would press kisses into his boyfriend’s shoulders, revitalizing him as he did so. His hands massaged his taut and tired muscles, washing every inch of Taeyong until he was fresh and clean. 

By the end of the bath, Taeyong was puddy in the older Alpha’s hands, dozing off against his broad chest. Johnny reveled in holding the older Alpha so close. He loved to be the one to pamper and kiss Taeyong, knowing that no one else had the privilege to do so. He finished rinsing shampoo out of his neon green hair, smiling when Taeyong let out a soft whine. “The bath is getting cold…” 

Johnny’s chest rumbled with laughter and he quickly pressed butterfly kisses against the side of Taeyong’s head. “I know, baby. I just finished rinsing out your hair. Let's get out and get you into something warm.” Taeyong sluggishly nodded, standing himself up. He reached for his towel as he stepped out of the tub and he blinked his heavy eyelids a few times. 

He felt a little dazed, but he was feeling much happier than he had been before the bath. “Feeling any better?” Johnny placed a soft kiss to Taeyong’s cheek and the younger smiled, allowing Johnny to envelop him in a hug from behind. 

“Very much…” Johnny gently ran his hands over Taeyong’s sides and his stomach, caressing him. Taeyong felt so warm from the inside out. He bit his lip. Johnny’s scent was getting richer, darker. He swallowed, feeling the warmth pool lower . “Baby…” Johnny kissed him to stop him. 

“I know. Not now. I want you to eat and take a nap anyways. I just can’t help myself, seeing you like this.” He cupped Taeyong’s cheek, smiling down at him. Love was reflected from Johnny’s eyes and back into Taeyong’s. “Let's get you fed and then tucked into bed.”

With a nod, Taeyong dried himself off and dressed in a set of Johnny’s own pajamas. The two of them then went to sit with the others to eat. He was surprised by the fact that both Yuta and Jisung were gone, but he thought that it was good for the two of them to get out. He ate his fill of the homemade pizza, loving how much Johnny smiled when he was complimented over the food. He waited until his boyfriend was finished and then helped everyone gather the dishes up. Jeno was glued to Jaemin’s side, helping the Beta as he started to do the dishes.

With a full belly and a warmth radiating from his heart, Taeyong allowed Johnny to lead him to bed. He was nestled in blankets and brought into a tight embrace. Feeling loved and cared for, Lee Taeyong was able to fall to sleep. 

Chapter Text

a new version, updated and even remade, will begin to get posted on 11/02. when the new fic goes up, the original LBRHATBBW fic andthis one, will be deleted.