Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Starlight Academy, Grade 4, Class 4A.

A classroom filled with ten-year-old

kids who should have been enjoying school like any other children.

But instead, their class had become a battlefield.

And the reason?

Joong and Pond.

They weren’t just classmates.

They weren’t even rivals in a friendly way.

They were enemies.

From the moment they met, something about each other just didn’t sit right.

Maybe it was the way ten-year-old Joong was always too cocky, acting like

he was the best at everything. Or maybe it was the way ten-year-old

Pond was always too smug, acting like he could never lose.

Whatever the reason, one thing was clear—they couldn’t stand each other.

If Joong answered a question in class, Pond would

immediately raise his hand to answer it better.

If Pond won a game during recess, Joong would challenge him to a rematch on the spot.

If Joong ran fast, Pond ran faster.

If Pond spoke loudly, Joong spoke louder.

Their war was so intense that the entire class had split into two groups.

Joong’s side included Santa,Phuwin, First , Ta and Boss, while Pond’s side had Phuwin,

Dunk, Fort, Jeff, Perth , and Up . They weren’t enemies themselves,

but being friends with one meant you were automatically

against the other side.

And so, every day in Class 4A was filled with

arguments, glares, and competition.

Morning Chaos,

The first bell rang, but instead of preparing for class,

Joong and Pond were already arguing.

“I swear I was first to enter the classroom today,

” Pond said, crossing his arms.

Joong rolled his eyes. “You? First? That’s impossible.”

Pond scoffed. “You think you’re the only one who can be first?”

Joong smirked. “No, I just think you’re too slow.”

Pond’s hands clenched into fists. “Say that again.”

“I said—”

Before Joong could finish, Phuwin grabbed Pond’s arm.

“Forget it, Pond. It’s not worth it.”

Perth nudged Joong. “Yeah, stop wasting your breath on him.”

But Joong and Pond were already locked in a stare-down.

Their classmates sighed. This was just another day in Class 4A.

And it was far from over.

Chapter Text

Class 4A had always been divided, but their never-ending competition had mostly

stayed inside the classroom—until Sports Day was announced.

Every year, the school organized a football match between different classes.

But this time, their homeroom teacher, Mr. Sarit, saw an opportunity.

“Since you all love competing so much,” he sighed one morning, rubbing his temples, “why don’t we make it official?”

The class perked up.

Joong and Pond immediately sat up straighter, sensing a challenge.

Mr. Sarit continued, “We’ll have an internal match before Sports Day. Class 4A vs. Class 4B.”

Excitement buzzed through the room, but it wasn’t enough for Joong and Pond.

Class 4A vs. Class 4B? Sure. But that didn’t settle their rivalry.

“We should split into two teams,” Pond suggested, not even hiding his smirk.

Joong leaned forward. “Yeah. That way, we’ll see who’s actually better.”

Their classmates groaned.

Another competition? But at this point, no one could stop them.

And so, the class was divided once again.

Joong’s team: Ta, Boss, Santa, First, and Phuwin.

Pond’s team: Jeff, Up, Fort, Perth, and Dunk.

Two captains. Two teams. One goal—to destroy the other.

Joong and Pond stood at the center of the field for the coin toss,

eyes locked in a silent challenge.

“Call it,” the referee said.

“Heads,” Joong said first.

The coin was flipped.

“Tails,” the referee announced.

Pond smirked. “We’ll take the ball first.”

Joong clicked his tongue but said nothing.

It didn’t matter. He was going to win anyway.

The whistle blew.

The moment the referee blew the whistle, Sports Day’s

most anticipated football match began.

From the very first kick, it was obvious—this wasn’t just a game. It was war.

Joong’s team—Ta, Boss, Santa, First, and Phuwin—immediately went on the attack.
Pond’s team—Jeff, Up, Fort, Perth, and Dunk—was ready to counter.

The ball zipped across the field as both sides fought tooth and nail to gain control.

Joong sprinted past Dunk and Fort, aiming straight for the goal.

But before he could shoot—

Pond came sliding in, kicking the ball away.

Joong stumbled but caught himself, turning with a scowl. “Are you trying to foul me?!”

Pond stood up, crossing his arms. “I got the ball, didn’t I?”

Jeff clapped Pond’s back. “Clean steal. Keep going.”

Joong’s team groaned.

Santa muttered, “That was so a foul.”

The match continued, growing rougher with each passing minute.

First almost scored, but Up deflected it.

Phuwin’s pass to Joong was intercepted by Perth.

Boss and Dunk kept shouldering each other, neither backing down.

Then, finally—

Joong broke free and made a powerful shot toward the goal.

The ball soared through the air, heading straight for the net—

Until Pond jumped in and deflected it.

The whistle didn’t blow.

The ball bounced off the goalpost.

And then—

“HAND BALL! HE USED HIS HAND!” Joong’s team erupted in outrage.

Pond spun around. “I did not!”

Joong stormed up, pointing. “You totally did!”

Pond’s teammates rushed to his defense.

Dunk scoffed. “If anyone’s cheating, it’s you guys!”

Boss crossed his arms. “Oh, really?

Then why are you blocking every goal like your life depends on it?”

Perth rolled his eyes. “Maybe because we’re better?”

The argument escalated fast.

Ta and Fort were practically nose-to-nose.
Santa and Up were yelling over each other.
First and Jeff were bickering on the sidelines.

Meanwhile, Joong and Pond?

Locked in a heated, stubborn stare-down.

Neither was willing to back down.

Neither was willing to lose.

And before the referee could get control of the situation—

The final whistle blew.

Match result? No winner. No loser. No completion.

Because instead of football, they had ended up playing the blame game.

The teachers sighed. Class 4A was impossible.

Chapter Text

Three years had passed, now they are 13, yet nothing had changed between Joong and Pond

—if anything, their rivalry had only become sharper, more intricate,

and more relentless. It was no longer just about childish arguments

over who walked into the classroom first or who answered the teacher’s questions faster.

Their battles had stretched far beyond those trivial moments, embedding themselves

into the very foundation of their school life. If Joong and Pond were present, competition followed.

If one of them succeeded at something, the other was right behind, ready to challenge,

to outdo, to reclaim whatever imagined title of superiority they constantly wrestled over.

It was an unspoken rule among their classmates: Joong and Pond were always at war.

It wasn’t just about grades—though that was certainly a battleground of its own.

If Joong scored a 98 on a math test, Pond would demand to see his own paper,

and if his score was any lower, he would grind his teeth and silently vow that next time,

he’d beat Joong without fail. If Pond received praise for a history essay, Joong would

spend extra hours researching the next topic, making sure his work would be even more impressive.

Their teachers had long since noticed, sighing at how neither could ever

just be satisfied with doing well—they had to do better than each other.

But it wasn’t just academics. Their rivalry spilled into sports, where every game

turned into an all-out war. If Joong finished his laps first in gym class,

Pond would challenge him to a rematch immediately after, claiming he wasn’t

“trying his hardest” the first time. If Pond scored a goal in football, Joong would

double down on his efforts, pushing his team harder just to make sure they wouldn’t lose.

Even relay races turned into personal duels, with both boys sprinting like their lives depended on it.

Their competitiveness was exhausting to witness, but neither of them seemed to grow tired of it.

Even outside of structured competitions, their daily lives became a series of challenges.

Their friends were caught in the crossfire more often than they liked, constantly

forced to pick sides in pointless disputes. If the cafeteria served a limited number of

their favorite meal, it became a race to see who could get it first. If one of them got a new

backpack or a pair of shoes, the other would make sure theirs was flashier, better, cooler.

Even something as simple as a school assembly could turn into a competition—

who clapped the loudest, who spotted the mistakes in the speech first, who could

whisper the best sarcastic remark that made their friends stifle laughter.

Despite how ridiculous it was, no one could deny that both Joong and Pond

had risen to the top of their class, not because they sought perfection, but

because they refused to let the other one win. They weren’t legendary, but they

were undeniably among the brightest students, always excelling, always pushing themselves

—and each other—to be better. They had become names that people recognized,

faces that stood out not only because of their achievements but because of

the dynamic they had built. Joong and Pond didn’t just exist in the same space;

they clashed in it, shaping their entire school experience

around the need to be the best.

And yet, for all their effort, neither of them had ever won.

Because the moment one of them pulled ahead, the other would come

running right after, unwilling to fall behind, unwilling to lose.

It was a cycle with no end, an ongoing battle that no teacher,

no friend, no school event could ever resolve.

And with Starlight Academy’s biggest competition of the year approaching,

there was no doubt in anyone’s mind—Joong and Pond’s

rivalry was about to reach a whole new level.

Chapter Text

At thirteen, everything felt strange. Their limbs were getting longer,

their voices were changing in weird ways, and their usual fights were

becoming more intense for reasons neither of them could explain.

But the biggest mystery of all was the one they barely talked about

—something everyone knew existed but didn't really understand.

Secondary genders.

They had heard the words before—Alpha, Beta, Omega—

but they had never been taught what they actually meant.

Parents never explained much, teachers avoided details, and older students

either laughed when asked or acted mysterious, saying,

You’ll find out soon enough.

It was frustrating.

And now, the school had decided it was time to explain.

A formal announcement came that all eighth-grade students

would attend a special Saturday class about secondary genders

Attendance was mandatory.

As expected, the news spread through the school like wildfire.

“What even is this class?” Perth asked at lunch, frowning as he picked at his food.

“They probably want to tell us what we’ll become,” Fort guessed.

“I thought we just... became whatever when we got older?” Up said, confused.

“They never teach us anything properly,” Dunk muttered.

“It’s probably some boring lecture,” Phuwin added. “Nothing important.”

At the other end of the table, Pond grinned as he eyed Joong.

Joong noticed immediately. “What?”

Pond leaned forward, smirk widening.

“Just wondering if they’ll tell us what you are on the spot.”

Joong frowned. “What are you talking about?”

“I don’t know.” Pond shrugged dramatically.

“Maybe they’ll check and say, Joong is officially the weakest type!”

Joong’s jaw clenched. “You don’t even know what the ‘types’ are.”

“Exactly,” Pond said smugly. “But I do know you’ll hate it

if they say you’re the weakest one.”

Joong bristled. “As if I’d ever be weak.”

Pond gasped in fake horror. “Oh no, what if you’re the most fragile one?

What if they say you need protection?”

He clutched his chest mockingly. “Poor Joong, delicate like a flower—”

Joong tackled him.

The cafeteria erupted into chaos as their trays went flying.

Pond fought back immediately, grabbing Joong’s arms, the two of them

rolling over the floor, locked in another one of their ridiculous fights.

“Here we go again,” Phuwin groaned, trying to pull Pond away.

Perth grabbed Joong’s shoulder. “Dude, get off before a teacher—”

Too late.

A sharp voice cut through the noise.

“What is going on this time?”

Their homeroom teacher, Mr. Thanapon, stood at the entrance,

arms crossed, looking absolutely done.

Joong and Pond froze.

Mr. Thanapon sighed heavily. “Both of you. Principal’s office. Now.”

Their classmates exchanged glances as the two boys were forced

to march out of the cafeteria, still glaring at each other.

One thing was certain—their first official Saturday class on

secondary genders was happening soon.

And at this rate? It was going to be a complete disaster.

Chapter Text

Saturday lectures were a new level of torture.

Joong and Pond had already decided—separately,

of course—that they weren’t wasting their weekend listening to

a bunch of teachers talk about things that didn’t even affect them yet.

Secondary genders? Who cared? They weren’t Alphas, Omegas, or Betas yet.

As far as they were concerned, they were still normal,

and that was all that mattered.

But as rivals, there was no way they could come up with the same plan.

That would be humiliating.

So, naturally, the Great Bunking War began.

Joong sat with his group—Ta, Boss, Santa, First, and Phuwin—

huddled around their usual lunch table.

"This Saturday," Joong said, lowering his voice, "we’re skipping the lecture."

First raised an eyebrow. "Skipping? How?"

"Simple," Joong smirked. "We all sign up for a school duty shift at the

exact time of the lecture. That way, we have a reason to be missing."

Santa leaned back. "You think they’ll believe that?"

Joong’s smirk widened. "They won’t question it. No teacher actually

wants to supervise us while we work. We’ll sign up for

maintenance duty—who’s gonna check if we actually do it?"

Phuwin hesitated. "And if they do check?"

Joong shrugged. "Then we just say we finished early."

The plan was perfect. Foolproof. There was no

way anyone would catch them.

Meanwhile, across the cafeteria, Pond was plotting with

his own group—Jeff, Up, Fort, Perth, and Dunk.

"We are not sitting through another one of those lectures,"

Pond declared, stabbing his fork into his food. "So we’re skipping."

Jeff smirked. "How?"

Pond grinned. "We’re going to pretend we forgot the class was today.

We show up to school, act like it’s a normal Saturday,

and then ‘accidentally’ go to the wrong place."

Fort frowned. "Won’t they just drag us back?"

"Not if we spread out," Pond explained. "If all five of us are missing in

parts of the school, they won’t have time to

round us up before the class ends."

Perth nodded. "Smart."

Dunk grinned. "This is gonna work."

They were sure of it.

Both groups arrived at school with full confidence in their escape plans.

Joong’s group immediately made their way to the

maintenance sign-up sheet, ready to scribble their names down and disappear.

Pond’s group spread out across the school, acting

like they had no idea the lecture was even happening.

It was perfect.

Except… the teachers had already anticipated everything.

Just as Joong’s group was about to sign their names—

"Oh, don’t bother," a teacher’s voice rang out behind them.

They froze.

The head instructor smiled at them. "Maintenance

duty has been suspended for today.

You don’t need to sign up. Just go straight to class."

Joong clenched his jaw. Damn it.

Meanwhile, Pond and his group were scattered around the school,

pretending to be busy. But before they could even enjoy

their freedom, another teacher’s voice rang over the loudspeakers—

"Any students who are not in the lecture hall in the next five

minutes will be given an extended session—one-on-

one—with the head instructor."

Pond flinched. A one-on-one session? That was

way worse than sitting in the class!

In the end, both Joong’s and Pond’s groups had no

choice but to drag themselves to the lecture

hall, utterly defeated.

Joong sat down, glaring at the front of the room.

Pond slumped in his seat, arms crossed.

Their eyes met across the room.

Neither spoke, but they both knew exactly what the other was thinking.

This isn’t over.

Chapter Text

The lecture hall buzzed with a mix of boredom and curiosity.

Students slumped in their seats, some glancing around in confusion,

others whispering to their friends. Joong and Pond sat on opposite

sides of the room, arms crossed, their faces

reflecting the same disinterest.

They hadn’t wanted to be here in the first place, and now they were being

forced to sit through a lecture on something they barely understood.

At the front of the room, the instructor tapped a long wooden pointer against

the board, where the word "BETA" was written in large, bold letters.

"Since none of you have received formal education on secondary genders yet,"

he began, scanning the room, "we will start with the basics.

Today’s lesson will focus only on Betas."

A few students shifted in their seats. Some looked curious,

but most seemed lost.

"There are three secondary genders: Alpha, Beta, and Omega."

The instructor’s tone was strict but patient. "A Beta is one of them."

Perth furrowed his brows. "So... what does that mean?"

The instructor nodded, as if expecting that question.

"Betas make up the majority of the population—about 60%. Unlike

Alphas and Omegas, Betas do not have any special biological traits that

set them apart. They don’t experience heats or ruts, and they

don’t have strong scents like the other two types."

Silence.

Blank stares.

Fort raised a hand hesitantly. "What is... a heat?"

Whispers broke out across the room.

Some students nodded, clearly wondering

the same thing. Others frowned, as if they had heard the word

before but never actually understood what it meant.

The instructor sighed. "We will discuss that in future lessons.

For now, just understand that Betas do not experience it."

"Then what about a rut?" Ta asked, his brows furrowing.

"Same answer. We will cover that later," the instructor said firmly.

"Right now, just focus on what a Beta is."

Jeff, who had been scribbling nonsense in his notebook, looked up.

"So, are Betas just normal people?"

The instructor gave a slow nod. "In a way, yes. They are considered

the most ‘neutral’ among the three. They are not affected by heats

or ruts, and they do not have the same biological instincts that

influence Alphas and Omegas. They can choose their partners freely,

without any outside forces affecting their emotions."

Santa raised an eyebrow. "Then

doesn’t that mean they’re boring?"

Laughter rippled through the students.

The instructor’s expression remained unchanged. "Not at all.

Betas are the backbone of society. They are steady, balanced,

and not controlled by instincts. If anything,

that gives them the most freedom."

Pond, who had been lazily twirling his pen, smirked and leaned toward

Joong’s side of the room. "Then you must be a Beta, Joong.

Super plain and boring."

Joong rolled his eyes. "Says the one who probably doesn’t

even understand a word of this."

"Like you do?" Pond scoffed.

The instructor shot them both a sharp glare.

"Would you like to stand and explain what a Beta is to the class?"

Joong and Pond immediately shut their mouths.

"That’s what I thought." The instructor exhaled before

glancing around. "Any other questions?"

Dunk hesitated before raising his hand. "If Betas don’t

have anything special like the other two, then...

how do they know who they like?"

The instructor nodded. "The same way anyone else does—through

experience and emotions. Unlike Alphas and Omegas, Betas

do not feel an instinctive pull toward anyone.

Their relationships are purely personal choices."

Silence settled over the room. Some students

looked thoughtful, others still appeared lost.

Pond whispered to Fort. "I still don’t get it."

Fort shrugged. "Me neither."

The instructor sighed, sensing the confusion in the air.

"It will make more sense as we go on.

This is just the first lesson. Next week, we will cover Alphas."

Groans filled the room.

The following Saturday arrived faster than any of them wanted,

and with it came the second special lecture. This time, the topic was Alphas.

As the students filed into the classroom, there was an undeniable

tension in the air. Last week’s discussion on Betas had left them

with more questions than answers, and now they were

about to learn about another mysterious gender.

Joong slumped into his seat, arms crossed,

looking utterly uninterested.

Across the room, Pond mirrored his posture, giving Joong a smug

glance as if to say, Bet you don’t even care about this class either.

The teacher walked in, clapping their hands to get the students’ attention.

"Alright, settle down, everyone. Today, we’ll be discussing Alphas—what

they are, how they function, and what role they play in society."

The room buzzed with low murmurs. Some students looked mildly interested,

while others, like Joong and Pond, seemed indifferent—at least on the surface.

“Now,” the teacher continued, “Alphas are known for their strong

presence, natural leadership, and physical advantages.

They tend to be competitive and protective, and they—”

Before the teacher could even finish, a hand shot up.

It was First. "Does that mean Alphas are like... the bosses of everyone?"

Some students nodded in agreement, while others frowned in confusion.

The teacher chuckled. "Not exactly. While many Alphas do have dominant

personalities, it doesn’t mean they control others.

Everyone is equal, regardless of their secondary gender."

Joong smirked, nudging Santa. "Sounds like something a

Beta would say," he muttered under his breath.

Unfortunately for him, Pond overheard.

“Oh? Are you secretly hoping to be an Alpha, Joong?”

Pond grinned, his voice just loud enough for nearby students to hear.

Joong turned to him with narrowed eyes. "What’s that supposed to mean?"

Pond shrugged, feigning innocence. "I mean, you try to

act like a leader, but, you know, we all know how that usually goes."

A few students chuckled, making Joong’s jaw tighten.

"Alright, alright, focus, class!" The teacher tapped the board,

bringing back their attention. "Now,

Alphas also experience something called ruts—"

The room fell silent.

"Ruts?" Boss repeated, frowning. "What’s that?"

The teacher hesitated for a moment before carefully explaining.

"It’s a biological period where an Alpha’s instincts

are heightened, and they may experience stronger emotions and—"

"Wait, wait, wait," Ta interrupted, holding up his hand.

"So, like... they turn into wolves or something?"

The whole class burst into laughter.

Even Pond and Joong momentarily forgot their

rivalry to snicker at the absurd idea.

The teacher sighed, rubbing their temples.

"No, Ta, they don’t turn into wolves."

"But they do go wild, right?" Dunk added, looking amused.

"Not wild exactly," the teacher corrected, trying to keep

control of the class. "It’s just a natural phase that

happens at a certain age, and—"

"Do they fight each other during ruts?"

Perth asked, looking oddly excited at the thought.

The teacher groaned. This was going to be a long lesson.

As soon as the lesson ended, the students flooded out of the

classroom, their chatter filling the hallways. The discussion on

Alphas had been just as vague as the one on Betas,

leaving them more confused than before.

Joong stretched his arms behind his head, walking alongside

Santa and Boss. "Well, that was useless," he muttered.

"They told us what an Alpha is but not what makes them

any different from the rest of us."

Santa nodded. "Yeah, and what was that whole thing about instincts?

Like, what instincts? We’re humans, not wild animals."

Meanwhile, on the other side of the hallway, Pond had his own thoughts.

"I swear, they just gave us random words without explaining anything."

Up chuckled. "Maybe they think we already know."

Fort scoffed. "As if. Look around—everyone’s just as lost as we are."

Joong and Pond spotted each other across the hall,

and without hesitation, their competitive instincts kicked in.

Pond crossed his arms, tilting his head. "Hey, Joong, since you love

acting like you know everything, why don’t you explain

what instincts Alphas have?"

Joong raised a brow. "Why should I? You seem to be

the one with all the opinions."

Pond smirked. "Oh, so you don’t know?"

Joong rolled his eyes. "I do know, I just don’t feel

like wasting my breath explaining something so obvious."

Pond snickered. "Yeah? Then explain it in just one sentence."

Joong hesitated for a split second—not because he didn’t know,

but because the teacher hadn’t really explained it well enough.

That moment of hesitation was enough for Pond’s group to snicker.

Boss leaned toward Santa. "Oh no, Joong’s about to lose this round."

Santa grinned. "Nah, just wait. He’ll flip it on Pond somehow."

And sure enough, Joong smirked. "Why should I

explain it to you? You wouldn’t get it anyway."

Pond gasped in mock offense. "Oh, right, because you

understand it so well? Fine, then let’s hear it.

What do you think a rut is?"

That made everyone pause.

Dunk frowned. "Yeah, what is a rut?"

Phuwin tilted his head. "I think it’s when

Alphas get really aggressive?"

"Or maybe when they get super strong?" Ta suggested.

Perth nodded. "I heard somewhere that ruts

happen when Alphas are near an Omega."

Everyone blinked.

Pond snorted. "Wait, so if an Alpha and an Omega

stand next to each other, something happens?

That sounds dumb."

Joong smirked. "Why don’t you go stand next to one and test it out?"

Pond scoffed. "Why don’t you? You’re the

one always acting like a know-it-all."

Joong stepped closer. "What, scared something might happen?"

Pond stepped closer too. "Not at all. Are you scared?"

The hallway filled with hushed whispers as the two stood face to face.

Santa leaned toward Boss. "Are they actually testing this?"

Boss grinned. "Probably just trying to outdo each other again."

After a few seconds of nothing happening, Joong scoffed.

"See? Told you. That whole ‘Alphas react to Omegas’

thing is probably just a dumb rumor."

Pond rolled his eyes. "Obviously. Like I’d believe

something that ridiculous."

With that, the tension dissolved, and

the students went back to their usual chatter.

But deep down, neither Joong nor Pond wanted to admit that,

for a second, they both really had wondered—what

did all this Alpha and Omega stuff actually mean for them?

Of course, they weren’t going to find out anytime soon.

And for now, they didn’t care.

Chapter Text

As Saturday rolled around, the students dragged themselves

into the special lecture room, some looking half-asleep, others

already whispering among themselves. The previous lessons hadn’t

exactly been thrilling, and most of them weren’t expecting

this one to be any different.

Joong slumped in his chair, arms crossed, watching as the teacher

wrote OMEGA on the board. The moment the word appeared, a few students

exchanged puzzled looks, and someone whispered, "So… what even

is that supposed to mean?"

Pond, sitting a few rows away, leaned his elbow on his desk

and smirked. "Bet it’s just another random explanation that

won’t make sense."

Joong clicked his tongue at the comment but didn’t reply. Instead,

he tapped his fingers impatiently against

his desk as the teacher finally spoke.

"Alright, class. Today, we’re covering the last of the three

secondary genders—Omegas."

Some students nodded like they were paying attention, but it

was clear from their blank faces that

no one actually understood what that meant.

First raised his hand. "Does that mean we finally figure out

what all of this stuff actually does?"

The teacher chuckled. "We’re taking it one step at a time.

Today, we’ll focus on what defines an Omega

and how they differ from Alphas and Betas."

Santa yawned dramatically. "So, is this gonna be another

one of those ‘this gender has certain traits,

but not always’ lessons?"

A few students laughed, but the teacher remained patient.

"Omegas are known for their adaptability, strong intuition,

and high sensitivity to emotions."

Phuwin blinked. "So… just normal people?"

The teacher sighed. "Yes, just like Alphas and Betas,

they are normal people.

The classification simply helps understand

natural instincts and tendencies."

Pond muttered to Dunk, "Why do we even need these categories

if they don’t mean anything?"

Dunk shrugged. "Beats me. Maybe it’s just another

way to make school more confusing."

Meanwhile, Joong watched the board,

frowning slightly. He wasn’t sure why,

but something about these explanations didn’t sit right with him.

It felt like they were just listing vague traits

without actually saying anything important.

Pond stretched his arms and leaned back in his chair. "Well,

if this is all there is to it, I don’t see why

they made such a big deal about these lectures."

Joong, unable to help himself, shot him a look.

"Maybe because you don’t get it?"

Pond scoffed. "Oh yeah? And you do?"

Joong smirked. "At least I’m actually listening."

Pond leaned forward. "Then explain it to me, genius."

Joong opened his mouth, then shut it. He realized he actually couldn’t

explain it properly—not because he didn’t understand, but because

everything they had been told so far felt incomplete.

The teacher clapped their hands. "Alright, before this turns into

another debate, let’s move on. If you have questions, feel free to ask."

But no one spoke. No one really knew what to ask.

The students sat there, staring at the word Omega, still feeling like all of

this was just information floating over their heads. None of them

knew yet just how important it would be.

For now, it was just another Saturday class that they didn’t want to be in.

With the special Saturday lectures finally behind them, life at school

returned to normal. The students, now familiar with the basics of

secondary genders stopped treating the topic like some great mystery.

The words "Alpha," "Beta," and "Omega"

no longer caused confusion, and

concepts like heats and ruts were now something they understood—even

if they still felt distant and irrelevant to their current lives.

As time passed, their focus shifted back to everyday school life. Tests,

sports, competitions—things that actually mattered to them at this age.

And for Joong and Pond, their rivalry only grew stronger.

Two years had passed since those first

awkward discussions about secondary

genders. They were now fifteen-sixteen, and neither of them had fully presented yet,

but that didn’t stop them from acting like they had something to prove.

Pond had grown taller, leaner, and sharper with his words. His confidence,

once playful and reckless, had settled into something more

refined—though still just as annoying in Joong’s eyes.

Joong, on the other hand, had broadened

slightly, his features maturing

as his presence became more commanding. He no longer responded to Pond’s

taunts with childish comebacks. Instead, he met them head-on,

his smirks sharper, his words more calculated.

Their arguments had evolved too.

No longer simple, petty squabbles,

their battles of wit and skill had turned into full-scale

competitions, each determined never to let the other win.

If Pond finished first in a test, Joong made sure to score higher

next time. If Joong led his team to victory in a sports match, Pond

pushed himself harder in the next game.

Neither of them could lose.

Not to each other.

Their classmates had long stopped

trying to break them apart. By now,

everyone understood: Joong and Pond thrived off of this rivalry.

It wasn’t just about winning. It was about

proving—constantly—that they were equals.

But beneath all the tension, the teasing,

and the endless competition, something was shifting.

It started in the middle of the school hallway,

right after lunch. Their classmates

had long learned to stay back

whenever Joong and Pond got into one of their fights,

because things could escalate quickly. This time was no different.

"Seriously, do you ever shut up?" Joong scoffed, rolling his

eyes as he walked past Pond, bumping shoulders intentionally.

Pond let out a sharp laugh. "I should be asking you that. You keep

acting like you're better than me, but last time I

checked, your grades weren’t even—"

Before he could finish, Joong grabbed the front of Pond’s uniform,

pulling him in just slightly. His eyes flashed with something

dangerously close to frustration. "Say that again."

Pond didn't back down. Instead, he smirked. "What,

are you mad because it's true?"

That was it. In one swift motion,

Pond's fist swung up and connected

with Joong's cheek, the sound of impact echoing in the hallway.

A few gasps rang out

from the students watching, but neither Joong nor Pond paid attention.

Joong staggered back slightly, his jaw tightening, but instead of anger,

there was something else in his expression—something almost amused. He

lifted a hand to his face, rubbing the spot where Pond had hit him,

and then, instead of retaliating immediately, he simply grinned.

"You really wanna do this here?" Joong's voice was low,

dangerous, but not entirely serious.

Pond clenched his fists, still tense. "Maybe I do."

For a moment, it seemed like Joong would hit back,

but instead, he took a

step closer, leaning in just enough to make Pond feel cornered.

"You punch like a little kid," he murmured.

That did it. Pond shoved Joong hard, and

within seconds, they were fully

wrestling in the middle of the hallway,

grabbing at each other’s uniforms,

pushing and shoving, refusing to let the other win.

It wasn’t an elegant

fight—more like two stubborn forces colliding,

neither willing to give an inch.

The commotion was loud enough that a teacher soon stormed into the scene,

voice booming as they ordered the two to stop.

But even as they were pulled apart,

even as they stood there panting, clothes slightly disheveled,

the rivalry between them only burned hotter.

As time passes,

Now the students were older, the school administration decided it

was time for a more serious and in-depth education about secondary

genders. Unlike the basic introduction they had received at thirteen,

this time, nothing would be left vague. Every detail about Alphas,

Betas, and Omegas—including dynamics, instincts, ruts, heats, mating,

and pair bonding—would be thoroughly explained.

The moment the announcement was made, chaos erupted among the students.

Some groaned in frustration, others whispered among themselves, and a

few acted indifferent, pretending not to care. But beneath it all,

there was an undeniable tension in the air.

Joong and Pond, as expected, had their own reactions.

"This again?" Joong muttered, slumping back in his chair. He twirled

his pen between his fingers, already dreading the idea of sitting

through another lecture about something he barely cared about.

Pond, on the other hand, snickered. "Guess they don’t trust us to

figure things out ourselves."

"You mean you need extra lessons," Joong shot back, smirking.

Pond turned to him with narrowed eyes. "Oh, please. I bet you’re

the one who still doesn’t get it."

Joong leaned closer, voice dropping just enough for only Pond to hear.

"At least I don’t run my mouth without knowing anything."

Pond huffed but didn’t have a proper

comeback, which only made him more annoyed.

Meanwhile, some students were genuinely panicking.

"Wait, they’re gonna talk about… everything?" someone whispered.

"Like, heats? Ruts? Bonding?" another student asked hesitantly.

The realization that the class was about to get serious made the entire

room restless. This wasn’t like before—now,

they were at the age where these

things actually mattered, where their bodies had already started changing.

Some students were dreading it,

others were weirdly curious,

and a handful were just hoping to survive the embarrassment.

As for Joong and Pond, neither of them planned to take it seriously.

Not yet, anyway. For now, it was just another chance to annoy each other.

But little did they know, this class was about to shake

things up in ways they never expected.

The classroom was unusually quiet as the teacher stepped forward,

adjusting the microphone. This wasn’t just another lecture—everyone

knew that. The tension in the air was thick, a mix of curiosity,

anxiety, and awkwardness.

"Alright, everyone," the teacher began, scanning the room

with a serious expression. "As you all know, today marks the

beginning of the advanced secondary gender education. You're

all at an age where your bodies will soon start to change.

Some of you may have already noticed small differences—perhaps

in your emotions, reactions, or even the way you perceive others around you."

A few students exchanged glances. Some looked genuinely

interested, while others looked like they wanted to disappear.

"These changes are natural and expected," the teacher continued.

"But they can also be confusing if you don’t understand them.

That’s why this class exists—to prepare you ahead of time so

you’re not caught off guard when your secondary gender fully manifests."

Joong sat back in his chair, his arms crossed, unimpressed.

"They make it sound like we’re about to transform

into something dramatic."

Pond, who was sitting a few rows away, turned just enough

to glance at him. "Maybe you are. You do have the

personality of a wild animal."

Joong shot him a glare, but before he could fire back,

the teacher clapped their hands once to regain

everyone’s attention.

"Now, let’s go over some of the common changes

you might experience," the teacher continued. "Physical

changes will be the first sign. Some of you may notice growth spurts,

voice changes, or shifts in your strength and stamina.

Emotionally, you might feel heightened sensitivity or unexplained mood

swings. You may even become more aware of certain scents,

people, or situations without understanding why."

A few murmurs spread through the classroom.

"Wait, is that why my brother keeps complaining

about how strong my cologne smells?" one student whispered.

"Probably," another muttered.

Joong furrowed his brows slightly, thinking back.

Lately, things had felt different, but he’d brushed

it off as just growing up. Was it more than that?

Pond, however, looked unconcerned. "Sounds like a

lot of fuss over nothing," he said under his breath.

The teacher’s voice cut through the murmuring.

"You might think this doesn’t apply to you yet,

but trust me, when it happens, you’ll understand why

we’re teaching you this now. It’s better to be

prepared than to be confused later."

Joong and Pond, despite their rivalry, both had

the same thought at that moment—whatever is coming,

it can’t be that serious… right?

The teacher glanced at the notes in their hand before

looking back up at the class. “Now, let’s begin with the

first secondary gender we’ll be discussing today—Alphas.”

A ripple of anticipation moved through the students. They

had heard the term before, of course. Everyone had.

“Alphas are known for their strong physical presence,” the teacher continued.

“They tend to have higher muscle mass, increased stamina, and sharper reflexes.

As they mature, their scent becomes more distinct,

often naturally commanding attention.

But what truly defines an Alpha isn’t just their

physicality—it’s their instincts.”

Some students straightened in their seats, others frowned in thought.

“They are naturally dominant,” the teacher explained.

“Not just in terms of strength,

but in how they interact with others. They often have leadership tendencies,

a competitive drive, and a protective nature, whether they realize it or not.”

Joong sat back in his chair, frowning slightly. Competitive? Protective?

He wasn’t sure if that sounded impressive or just like a lot of responsibility.

Pond rolled his eyes. “So basically, they’re bossy,”

he muttered under his breath.

A student in the back raised their hand.

“Does that mean Alphas are always the strongest?”

“Not necessarily,” the teacher replied. “While they tend to be physically stronger

on average, that doesn’t mean a Beta or Omega can’t be just as skilled or capable.

It’s not about being better—it’s about different natural tendencies.”

Joong’s competitive side immediately latched onto that. “So then,

if an Alpha is weak, does that mean they failed at being an Alpha?”

A few students snickered. The teacher gave him a sharp look. “No.

Secondary gender doesn’t determine worth—only natural traits.

Strength isn’t just about muscles, Joong.”

Pond smirked. “Sounds like someone’s worried.”

Joong kicked his chair from behind, making him jolt forward. “Shut up.”

The teacher sighed. “Moving on. Alphas also experience something called ruts.”

"A rut is a phase of intense hormonal activity that affects both the body and mind,

" the teacher explained. "It's something all Alphas will experience as they mature.

Their strength, aggression, and instincts will heighten during this time,

making them more reactive to certain triggers."

"Ruts don’t happen immediately," she continued. "They typically start

in the later teenage years, but the exact timing depends on

factors like genetics and environment."

The tension in the room thickened. Some students were

suddenly taking very detailed notes, while others were sitting

completely still, as if processing this new reality.

"So…" another student spoke up cautiously.

"When an Alpha is in rut, do they just… lose control?"

"Not necessarily," the teacher replied. "It depends on the

individual. Some have strong discipline and can manage it, while others

struggle. That’s why suppressants exist—to help regulate it when needed."

There was a brief silence before another question came. "Is it dangerous?"

The teacher exhaled. "Only if it's not managed properly. That’s why we

teach you these things—so you’re prepared and in control when the time comes."

BETA.

Unlike the previous discussions, there was no immediate reaction.

No stolen glances, no shifting in seats. If anything, a few students

looked… bored. After all, Betas weren’t surrounded by as much

mystery as Alphas and Omegas.

The teacher turned to face the class. “Now, let’s talk about Betas.

While Alphas and Omegas have strong biological instincts, Betas are

different. Their secondary gender doesn’t come with extreme physical

changes like ruts or heats. In fact, some might say that Betas

are the most… ‘normal’ in society.”

A few students chuckled at that, while others simply nodded along.

“The reason Betas don’t have heats or ruts is because their hormone

levels remain stable throughout their lives. They don’t experience the

same intense urges that Alphas and Omegas do, which means they

can function without the need for suppressants or scent blockers.”

Someone raised a hand. “So, Betas are just… regular people?”

The teacher smiled. “In a way, yes. But that doesn’t mean they don’t

have an important role. In fact, Betas make up the majority of

the population, and because of their balanced nature, they often

serve as mediators in society. They don’t react strongly to Alpha

or Omega pheromones, making them less likely to be

affected by heat or rut triggers.”

Another student frowned. “So, does that mean Betas

can’t be with Alphas or Omegas?”

“Oh, no. Relationships between all secondary genders are possible.

Betas can be with other Betas, Alphas, or even Omegas. However,

because they don’t have the same instinctual drives,

relationships with Alphas and Omegas can sometimes require

extra communication.”

That seemed to make sense to most of the students. Betas

weren’t bound to instincts like the other two genders, but that

also meant they didn’t have the same biological pull drawing them toward a mate.

Another hand shot up. “Do Betas have any scent?”

“They do, but it’s much weaker compared to Alphas and Omegas.

Their pheromones aren’t as noticeable, and they don’t have a specific

cycle that makes their scent stronger or weaker.

That’s why some people say Betas ‘blend in’ more easily.”

Pond, who had been listening quietly up until now, suddenly smirked.

“So basically, they’re the safest option. No crazy ruts,

no overpowering heats. Just… stable.”

Joong rolled his eyes. “Sounds like you’re jealous.”

“Jealous?” Pond scoffed. “Please. I’d be bored out of

my mind if I were a Beta.”

Some students laughed, while a few actual Betas in the

room sent unamused glances in Pond’s direction.

The teacher clapped her hands, drawing attention back to her.

“I want to remind you all—each secondary gender has its strengths

and weaknesses. Betas may not have heats or ruts, but that doesn’t

mean they’re any less important. In fact, their ability to stay

unaffected makes them incredibly valuable in maintaining

balance in society.”

The students nodded, some taking notes while

others simply let the information sink in.

“For now, let’s take a short break. When we return,

we’ll discuss Omegas.”

As soon as the teacher dismissed them, chatter broke out across the room.

Joong leaned back in his chair, thinking about what they had learned.

Pond, on the other hand, was already turning in his seat,

eager to start teasing someone again.

But for once, Joong wasn’t in the mood for their usual back-and-forth.

His mind was elsewhere—on what was coming next.

Because out of everything they’d learned so far, the most talked-about,

most controversial topic was still waiting to be discussed.

And that was Omegas.

OMEGAS

Immediately, the room filled with murmurs. Unlike Betas and Alphas,

Omegas were often the subject of fascination and mystery.

Even though the students had heard the term before, they had

little understanding of what it truly meant.

The teacher turned to face them with a calm but firm expression.

“Omegas are often seen as the most special of the three secondary genders.

Not because they are better than Alphas or Betas, but because they

possess unique qualities that make them stand out.”

A few students leaned in, interested. Others crossed their arms,

waiting for an explanation.

“First, let’s talk about their natural traits. Omegas are highly adaptive,

meaning they can thrive in different environments and situations. They

are known for being intelligent, emotionally perceptive, and often naturally

charming. Many Omegas have an aura that draws people in—not just Alphas,

but Betas and even other Omegas as well. It’s not about being weak or

needing protection; it’s about the way their instincts work.”

Pond raised an eyebrow. “So… what?

They’re like super charismatic or something?”

The teacher chuckled. “it's not like that. But more than that, they

have an ability to understand and connect with others on a deeper level.

Of course, not every Omega is the same—some are quiet, some are loud,

some are strong-willed, and others are more reserved. But in general,

their natural instincts make them excellent at reading emotions,

building relationships, and even leading.”

Joong frowned slightly, tapping his fingers on his desk.

“So why do people always make it sound like Omegas

need someone else to take care of them?”

The teacher sighed. “Because for a long time, that was the perception.

People misunderstood the biological aspect of Omegas and assumed that

because they experience heats, they must be fragile. But that’s not true at all.”

A student in the back raised their hand.

“So what makes an Omega different from the others biologically?”

The teacher nodded. “Good question. Biologically speaking, Omegas have

a reproductive system that complements an Alpha’s the most. That’s why,

historically, Alpha-Omega pairs were seen as the most ‘natural’ match.

However, that does not mean it’s the only match. A Beta can bond with another Beta,

an Omega with another Omega, and even Betas and Alphas can have strong and

fulfilling relationships. What matters most is compatibility—not just

biology, but emotions, personalities, and choices.”

Pond tilted his head. “So, it’s not like we’re locked into one type of pairing?”

“Exactly,” the teacher said firmly. “In the past, society tried to make

it seem like the only perfect pair was Alpha and Omega, but that’s just an

outdated way of thinking. Yes, biologically, Alphas and Omegas have the

strongest reproductive compatibility, but relationships and bonds go beyond that.

A Beta-Beta pairing is just as natural. An Omega could be with another Omega.

And some people may never want a bond at all. That’s a personal choice.”

The students exchanged glances, some clearly relieved, others

still trying to wrap their heads around it.

Joong leaned back in his seat. “But what about pheromones? We learned

that Alphas have strong ones, but what about Omegas?”

The teacher smiled. “That’s another thing that makes Omegas unique.

They do have a strong natural scent, which can be very alluring.

It’s often described as warm, sweet, or comforting. However, the strength

of an Omega’s pheromones depends on the person. Some have light scents

that are barely noticeable, while others have ones that can be quite strong.”

A student hesitated before asking, “And what about heats? We learned

about ruts for Alphas, so how do heats work?”

The room went silent again. This was what most of them had been curious about.

The teacher didn’t look uncomfortable discussing it—she was calm

and professional, as if it was just another biology lesson.

“Heats are a cycle that Omegas go through, similar to how Alphas

experience ruts. However, while ruts make Alphas more aggressive and territorial,

heats make Omegas more… sensitive. Their bodies naturally prepare for a mate,

which means their pheromones increase, and they may feel an intense

desire for comfort and companionship.”

Another hand shot up. “So, does that mean Omegas

lose control when they’re in heat?”

The teacher’s expression remained composed as they addressed the question.

“That’s a common misconception. During a heat, an Omega’s sense of judgment

can be affected, and sometimes they may not be in the best state of

mind to make clear decisions. However, this doesn’t mean they completely

lose control. It’s just that their instincts can become overwhelming, making

it easier to rely on someone they trust to help them through it.”

Some students looked confused. “Help them how?” one of them asked.

The teacher explained, “It depends. Some Omegas prefer to be alone

and use suppressants to handle it privately. Others find that having

a trusted person nearby, whether it’s a friend, a partner, or even just

someone to provide comfort, makes the experience more bearable.

Biologically speaking, an Alpha’s scent can have a calming effect

on an Omega during heat, but that doesn’t mean an Omega needs an Alpha to

get through it. Any kind of emotional or physical comfort can help—whether

that’s a Beta, another Omega, or even just a warm blanket

and a stress-free environment.”

Pond made a face. “So, they just… cuddle their way through it?”

The teacher laughed. “For some, yes. It’s different for everyone.

Some Omegas go through mild heats that are easy to manage, while

others experience more intense ones. The key thing to remember is that no

one secondary gender should be seen as weak just because of their biology.”

A thoughtful silence followed. Some students were nodding, others looked deep in thought.

Chapter Text

As the classroom settled after the discussion about Omegas,

the teacher cleared her throat, signaling that they

were about to delve into something even more significant.

“Now, while we’ve covered the basic nature of Omegas, there’s

one critical aspect we haven’t discussed yet—what

happens when a male presents as an Omega.”

A ripple of unease and curiosity spread through the students.

Everyone had heard the term ‘presentation’ before, but the specifics

remained a mystery. They knew it meant something changed, but what exactly?

That part had never been explained in detail.

The teacher continued, her voice calm and steady. “Unlike females,

who do not experience any extreme physical changes beyond the natural

development of secondary sexual characteristics, males who present as Omegas

undergo a significant transformation. This is a crucial biological process,

unique to male Omegas, and one that takes place over several months—typically

anywhere from three to six.”

That caught their attention.

Joong frowned slightly. “Wait… months?”

The teacher nodded. “Yes. While the initial signs of presentation—such

as changes in scent, increased sensitivity, and heightened pheromone

production—can appear suddenly, the full transformation is a gradual process.”

A few students exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of confusion and dread.

Pond leaned forward, resting his chin on his palm. “And what exactly is transforming?”

The teacher turned to the whiteboard and wrote a single word: Adaptation.

“The human body, much like nature itself, adapts to its biological role. For male Omegas,

this means that as their secondary gender manifests, their reproductive system

begins restructuring itself. The body activates dormant stem cells,

which guide the transformation process over time.”

Joong crossed his arms. “Yeah, okay, but… what changes?”

The teacher hesitated for only a second before answering.

“The most significant change is that the external male organ is gradually

reabsorbed into the body. Over time, a fully developed vaginal canal and internal

reproductive system take shape. This transition happens as the body

aligns with its Omega physiology.”

The reaction was immediate.

“What the hell?!” one student blurted out.

“Wait, wait, wait—completely gone?” another gawked.

“That’s insane.”

Pond wrinkled his nose. “So one day, you wake up and poof—it’s gone?”

The teacher shook her head, used to these kinds of reactions. “Not quite.

As I said, the process takes months. The change is gradual, happening in stages,

but by the end of it, yes, the reproductive system will have fully adapted.”

Several students looked visibly horrified.

One of the boys in the back raised a trembling hand. “What about, uh… the chest?”

The teacher actually smiled at that. “No, male Omegas do not develop full breasts

like females. However, there are certain changes that occur. The chest may become softer,

and there is often a small increase in sensitivity due to hormonal shifts.

Some Omegas report minor tissue development, but it does not reach the level of female breasts.”

That seemed to calm some of them down—but not much.

“So it’s like… half a transformation?” someone muttered.

“No,” the teacher corrected gently. “It’s a complete transformation into

an Omega’s physiology. The changes that occur are what make reproduction

possible for an Omega, and they are guided by the body’s natural biological programming.”

A hand shot up. “Does it hurt?”

The teacher sighed. “Not in the way you might think. The body is designed

to adapt, so while there are no severe pain receptors triggered,

there is intense discomfort. Sensitivity levels spike, fever-like

symptoms occur, and the surge of pheromones can be overwhelming.”

Joong rubbed his temples, looking like he had a headache just from listening.

“This is way more intense than I thought.”

The classroom remained quiet, the weight of the lesson sinking in.

For some, this was just another biology class.

For others, it was a glimpse into a future they hadn’t even thought about yet.

And for a few… it was a reality they would soon have to face.

The bell rang, signaling the end of the special lecture, but no one moved.

The usual rush to get out of class, the loud chatter, the playful shoving—all

of it was gone. Instead, the students sat frozen in their seats,

staring at the whiteboard where the word Adaptation was still written in bold letters.

Joong leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms.

“Well, that was way too much information for a Saturday morning.”

Pond, still looking a little unsettled, scoffed. “No kidding.

Three to six months? That’s like… half a year of your body mutating.”

A few students glanced at each other uneasily.

“I still can’t believe the whole… you know.” First motioned

vaguely toward his lap. “It just disappears?”

“It doesn’t disappear,” the teacher, who hadn’t left yet, corrected. “It transforms.”

“That doesn’t make it sound any less terrifying,” Ta muttered, shaking his head.

One of the Beta students in the back, Jeff, finally spoke up.

“But why only male Omegas? Why don’t male Betas or Alphas change like that?”

The teacher gave a patient nod. “They do—just differently.

While a male Omega’s body undergoes a reproductive transformation,

a male Alpha also experiences physical changes. Their muscle mass

increases significantly, their bone structure becomes denser, and their

reproductive organs develop further. This is why fully presented Alphas

tend to be physically stronger and have higher endurance compared to Betas and Omegas.”

Joong made a face. “So basically, nature decides for you, and you just have to deal with it.”

“Essentially, yes.”

A few students groaned.

Dunk, who had been quiet the whole time, suddenly blurted out,

“What if someone doesn’t want to change?”

The teacher hesitated. “The body follows its natural course, but medical

intervention is possible. There are hormone regulators available for those

who wish to delay or suppress their presentation, but they come with their own set of side effects.”

A murmur spread through the room. The idea that you could stop the

process—at a cost—was something no one had considered before.

Pond sighed dramatically, throwing himself against his desk.

“This is too much. I thought these classes were just gonna be boring

lectures about ‘be respectful to different genders,’ not a full biology horror story.”

Santa snickered. “Scared you might wake up one day and—”

“Don’t even finish that sentence,” Pond warned, throwing his eraser at him.

The teacher clapped her hands. “Alright, that’s enough for today.

I suggest you all take some time to process this information.

We still have a few more sessions left, and trust me—you’re going to need them.”

No one argued.

As the students finally shuffled out of the classroom, their usual

energy was gone. Some walked in silence, others whispered nervously to each other.

Joong glanced sideways at Pond, noticing how he was frowning slightly,

lost in thought. For once, there was no teasing, no smug remarks, no challenges.

Just an uneasy silence.

And for the first time since these lessons started,

Joong felt something strange in his chest.

Not fear.

Not excitement.

Just uncertainty.

And he hated it.

Few weeks passed,

The usual buzz of the classroom had escalated into full-blown chaos.

It had started as a normal day—morning lectures, petty arguments

between Joong and Pond, and the usual divide between their friend groups.

But everything shifted when Fort, who had been acting strangely

all morning, suddenly clutched his head and groaned.

“Ugh… why does it feel like I got hit by a truck?” Fort muttered,

blinking as if his vision was spinning.

“Bro, you good?” Dunk asked, leaning away like Fort had just turned radioactive.

“Yeah, I—” Fort stopped mid-sentence as a wave of dizziness hit him.

His entire body felt like it was burning from the inside out, his muscles

aching in a way he had never experienced before. His hands clenched into

fists, and a sudden wave of aggression surged through him.

Then, the entire room froze.

Because the moment Fort lifted his head again, his scent changed.

It wasn’t visible, but it was *felt*. A deep, commanding presence flooded the

room, instinctively demanding attention. It was an Alpha’s scent.

“NO WAY!” Ta practically threw his notebook across the room.

Phuwin, who had been sipping his juice box, choked so hard he nearly

died on the spot. “Cough—He’s an—cough—he’s an ALPHA!?”

“Wait, wait, wait,” Santa pointed at Fort, his expression torn between horror

and amazement. “You mean to tell me you were a Beta yesterday

and now you’re an Alpha? That’s not fair!”

“You guys are acting like I planned this!” Fort barked, still

gripping the desk as if it was the only thing keeping him grounded.

“I feel like I’m gonna explode, and you’re worried about fairness!?”

Meanwhile, Up had been watching this whole mess

with a blank expression, arms crossed.

Perth nudged him. “Hey, bro, you okay?”

Up sighed and rolled his eyes. “Unlike *some people*, I’m still a Beta.”

A wave of exaggerated disappointment passed through their group.

“Oh man, I thought you’d be the next one,” Dunk muttered.

“Yeah, imagine if Up turned out to be an Omega,” Ta laughed.

“That’d be hilarious.”

Up scowled. “*Excuse you*—I would make an amazing Omega, but no,

I’m perfectly fine staying a Beta, thank you very much.”

Before more nonsense could unfold, the classroom door banged open.

A senior teacher and a school nurse stepped in, both looking extremely unamused.

“Fort Krittin,” the teacher called.

Fort, still gripping his desk, turned toward them hesitantly. “Uh… yeah?”

“You need to come with us to the **medical wing** immediately.

Newly presented students require full evaluation and monitoring.”

Fort frowned. “Wait, right now?”

“Yes, right now,” the teacher said impatiently. “Unless you’d prefer

to spontaneously lose control of your strength and punch a hole in the wall.”

Fort blinked, considering that possibility. “…Fine.”

As he stood up, the class watched, whispering among themselves.

This was their first real witness of a presentation, and now

Fort was being escorted away like he had some rare disease.

The moment he left, everyone turned back to each other.

“Well,” Boss huffed, “guess we know our first Alpha.”

Pond leaned back in his chair, resting his chin on his palm,

eyes flicking toward Joong. “Yeah… but he won’t be the last.”

Joong, meeting his stare, smirked. “We’ll see.”

And just like that, the atmosphere of the classroom changed.

The game had officially begun.

The moment Fort returned to class after presenting, the energy in the room shifted.

It wasn’t just that he had changed—it was the way he carried himself.

There was a confidence in his step, a sharpness in his movements,

like his body had adjusted to something new and powerful.

He wasn’t larger exactly, but he looked... more solid. Stronger.

And Pond’s group was not about to let that go unnoticed.

As soon as Fort took his seat, Perth slung an arm around his shoulder,

grinning. "Look at this—our guy goes away for a few days

and comes back a whole Alpha. No wonder the air feels different in here."

Jeff smirked, tapping a finger against his chin.

"Do you think Joong’s group is nervous?"

Pond, leaning back in his chair with his legs crossed,

clicked his tongue. "Nervous? More like jealous."

His words were loud enough to carry across the room—just

loud enough to make sure Joong’s group heard.

On the other side of the classroom, Joong leaned against his desk,

unimpressed. He didn’t even look at Pond, choosing instead to stretch

his arms behind his head. "Jealous of what, exactly?"

Santa, sitting beside him, snorted. "I think they’re

trying to flex that they have an Alpha now."

Ta cracked his knuckles. "Took them long enough."

Boss grinned. "What’s next? They gonna start measuring his biceps?"

The tension in the air was immediate.

Fort smirked, cracking his neck as he leaned forward slightly.

"I mean, if we’re talking measurements, I do feel stronger

than before. Maybe we should test that out."

Joong raised a brow, finally locking eyes with him. "Oh? You wanna compare?"

The whole class went wild.

It didn’t take long for things to spiral into full-blown group competition.

Pond’s group wasted no time flaunting Fort’s new

Alpha status, while Joong’s group refused to back down.

Physical showdowns started happening everywhere.

Sports class? Fort sprinted faster than before,

so Joong’s group ran harder.

Basketball? Perth and Jeff made sure to pass Fort

the ball every time, watching Joong’s reaction.

Strength tests? Fort lifted a desk one-handed.

Ta immediately tried to do the same.

And then came the real battles—the ones that turned into pure ego fights.

One afternoon, in the cafeteria, Pond dramatically sighed,

staring at Fort. "Man, it must be nice having an actual Alpha on our side now."

Perth smirked. "Yeah, kinda crazy how things shift once someone presents, huh?"

Joong, sitting across from them, raised a brow.

"Are you trying to say something?"

Pond smirked, resting his chin on his palm.

"I’m just saying—some people might wanna hurry up.

Otherwise, they’ll fall behind."

Joong’s entire group went dead silent.

Santa choked on his drink. Ta actually paused mid-bite.

Boss leaned forward, eyes flicking between Joong and Pond.

Joong set his spoon down, slowly. "Fall behind? In what?"

Pond shrugged, fake innocence in his tone.

"Oh, I don’t know. Strength. Status. Relevance."

Boom.

Ta leaned toward Boss, whispering, "He’s begging for a fight right now."

Joong’s eyes darkened, but he didn’t take the bait—not yet.

Instead, he picked up his spoon again, stirring his food.

"You talk a lot for someone who hasn’t presented yet."

The cafeteria exploded.

"OOOOH!"

"JOONG, YOU CAN’T JUST SAY THAT!"

Pond’s smirk twitched, but he quickly covered it up, tilting

his head. "And? I don’t need to present yet. I’m already doing just fine."

Jeff nudged Pond’s shoulder. "You gonna let that slide?"

Pond grinned. "Of course not."

He turned back to Joong, leaning closer. "But, hey,

since you’re so curious—maybe you should hurry up and present first. Then we can talk."

Joong’s expression didn’t change. But the way his

grip tightened around his spoon? That said everything.

The rivalry between them had always been intense.

But now?

It was reaching dangerous levels.

The whole school could feel it.

The more students presented, the closer Joong and Pond got

to their own turn—and the more agitated they became.

Their fights were sharper. Their words had more bite.

And even though neither of them would admit it...

They both knew.

The moment they presented, everything would shift.

Chapter Text

The latest wave of presentations had shifted the energy in the school,

and no one could ignore it. Perth, First, and Boss had now officially

presented as Betas—not that it changed much for them. Unlike Alphas or Omegas,

Betas didn’t go through any drastic transformations, which meant they still

looked the same, acted the same, and, most importantly, didn’t have to deal with

the drama that came with secondary gender dynamics.

Not that it stopped them from causing drama.

It started when Fort walked into the classroom after his brief absence

post-presentation. He had been gone for a few days, and while it wasn’t as

long as some people had expected, it was enough for his return to be an event.

Pond’s group immediately used the moment to show off.

"Ah, look at that," Pond said, dramatically nudging Perth.

"The Alpha of our group has returned!"

Fort smirked at the exaggerated welcome and stretched his arms lazily.

"Yeah, yeah. Missed me that much?"

"Not really," Perth deadpanned. "But since you’re back, we finally have

someone to crush Joong’s group in every sport again."

Joong’s group, sitting across the room, instantly perked up.

"Oh, please," Santa scoffed, folding his arms. "You act like you guys ever had a chance."

Boss chuckled, flipping a pen between his fingers. "Exactly. Didn’t we destroy you last time?"

"Destroyed what?" Dunk shot back. "Your egos?"

First waved a dismissive hand. "Whatever helps you sleep at night."

The bickering escalated fast, with both groups trying to one-up the other,

but in the middle of all that, Fort casually leaned toward Boss and grinned.

"So, Boss, you didn’t miss me at all?" he asked, voice smooth.

Boss rolled his eyes. "You were gone for, like, three days."

"Still, you could’ve at least pretended to miss me," Fort teased.

"Why would I?" Boss shot back, crossing his arms. "It’s not like I enjoy your company."

"Mm, keep telling yourself that," Fort hummed.

Before Boss could retort, Santa groaned loudly. "I swear, if you two start this again—"

Meanwhile, on the other side of the room, Up and Jeff were watching the exchange,

Up with an amused smirk and Jeff looking vaguely concerned.

"You’re awfully quiet today," Up mused, tilting his head toward Jeff.

Jeff blinked. "What? No, I’m not."

"Mm-hmm," Up hummed knowingly. "Are you just fascinated by all the

flirting going on, or is there something else on your mind?"

Jeff scoffed. "I’m just waiting for class to start."

"Right," Up said, drawing out the word. "That’s definitely what you’re doing."

Before Jeff could respond, Pond turned to Joong, who had been observing everything quietly.

"Wow," Pond said, shaking his head. "Your group is tragic."

Joong raised an eyebrow. "My group?"

"Yeah," Pond said, gesturing toward the ongoing Fort/Boss banter.

"Look at them. One step away from writing love letters to each other. So sad."

Joong smirked slightly. "And yours is any better?"

Pond gasped in mock offense. "Excuse me! My group is elite."

"Your group is a disaster," Joong corrected.

Pond grinned. "A superior disaster."

Before Joong could fire back, the teacher finally walked in,

ending the chaos—at least temporarily.

"Alright, settle down," the teacher said, sounding utterly exhausted before

the class even started. "I already have a headache, so don’t make it worse."

The students reluctantly quieted down, though some continued whispering. Boss

shot Fort a warning glance. "Don’t start anything in class."

Fort just smirked. "No promises."

Meanwhile, Up leaned in closer to Jeff and whispered, "Bet you twenty

bucks Fort and Boss get detention for whatever happens next."

Jeff sighed. "I’m not taking that bet. We both know they will."

And with that, class finally began—though with these two groups,

it was never just a normal day.

The day had started just like any other. Joong and Pond

were bickering before the first bell even rang, their voices rising over

the murmur of the other students settling into their seats.

*"You seriously have a talent for being annoying, Joong."

Pond rolled his eyes, leaning back in his chair with a smirk.

*"And you have a talent for losing, Pond. Guess we all have our

strengths."* Joong shot back without missing a beat.

**But something was different today.**

At first, it wasn’t obvious. Joong was still cocky, still snide,

still throwing his usual insults. But there was a weight behind his

words that wasn’t normally there. **A presence.** Something **heavier.**

Even **Pond felt it.**

Their fights were always heated, always competitive, but today—**

something about Joong felt darker.** Not angry, not irritated, but… **more.**

The way he looked at Pond felt different. The way he held himself.

The usual arrogance was there, but today, it wasn’t just words. It was

**confidence**, something that made Pond’s skin itch with unease.

For a brief second, **Pond hesitated.**

And that’s when it happened.

**Joong’s voice changed.**

Mid-sentence—**mid-insult, actually**—his voice **dropped.**

Deep. Rough. Heavy in a way that sent a shiver down everyone’s spine.

It wasn’t normal.

It wasn’t just a voice change. **It was something else.**

And then—**his scent hit.**

A sharp, unmistakable shift in the air; it's an alpha scent. So**powerful.

Overwhelming.** It wasn’t even fully there yet, but it was enough

to make everyone stop breathing for half a second.

**Silence.**

For the first time **ever,** Joong and Pond weren’t yelling at each other.

Pond’s body tensed. **His instincts screamed at him.**

He didn’t know why, but he knew **this wasn’t normal.**

Someone **gasped.**

Someone else **shot up from their seat.**

And then—**chaos.**

*"Teacher!"*

*"Something’s wrong!"*

*"Joong—he—"*

**Joong blinked, eyes unfocused, like he wasn’t fully

aware of what was happening.**

His breathing was heavier. His shoulders tense. His hands

clenched against the desk, knuckles white as if he was holding something back.

**His body was changing.**

Not physically—not yet—but the shift was there.

The presence, the scent, the **raw energy of it.**

*"Shit."* Someone whispered.

Pond—despite everything, despite his rivalry with Joong, despite **not

wanting to care**—**felt his heart pound.**

**This was it.**

**Joong was presenting.**

*"Someone get the teacher!"*

A chair scraped harshly against the floor as someone ran out of the room,

shouting down the hallway. The students still inside **stared**,

unsure of what to do, too caught between confusion and the

undeniable realization that **Joong was no longer just Joong.**

This was different from the others.

This was **big.**

And **Pond hated it.**

Not because Joong was presenting.

Not because he was an Alpha.

But because **it was Joong.** And now, **Joong was

even more of a problem than before.**

Pond never paid attention to his body much—why would he?

He was active, fast, and sharp-tongued enough to handle anyone,

especially Joong. But lately… something felt off.

Not enough to worry, but just enough to be annoying.

At first, it was just tiredness. He brushed it off as normal—school

was exhausting, after all. But then came the strange aches. His

lower stomach felt tight sometimes, like he’d eaten something bad,

but there was no actual pain, just this odd discomfort that faded after a while.

His friends noticed before he did.

"Why do you look kinda… tired?" Jeff asked one afternoon, squinting at him. "You sick?"

Pond scoffed. "I look perfect, as always."

"You do," Jeff agreed, but his tone was suspicious. "But still…"

Fort, sitting beside them, nodded. "Yeah, you do look kinda—"

He paused, eyes narrowing. "You’re blushing?"

Pond blinked. "What?"

"You look a little flushed," Fort pointed at his cheeks.

"You have a fever or something?"

Pond rolled his eyes and waved them off.

"I'm fine! Stop acting like my mom."

It was just the weather. It had to be.

But then the strange dreams started.

At first, they were nothing. Just random nonsense. But then, suddenly,

Pond found himself dreaming of warmth—a deep, comforting kind of warmth

that spread through his chest and settled low in his stomach. He always

woke up feeling weird after, a little too hot, a little too

aware of his body in a way he never was before.

And his scent—Pond didn't know why, but Fort casually mentioned one

day, "You smell kinda different lately."

Pond almost choked on his drink. "What the hell does that mean?!"

Fort shrugged. "I dunno, you just—" He frowned. "You used to smell

kinda fresh, like citrus or something. Now, it’s still there but… deeper?"

"Deeper?" Pond stared at him. "What does that even mean?"

"Like… richer? I dunno how to explain it."

Jeff hummed. "Maybe you're just sweating more. Puberty’s a bitch."

Pond huffed, brushing it off. They were being weird. His scent was fine. His body was fine.

…Right?

But then came the weight changes.

Nothing drastic—just little things. His hips ached sometimes when he stretched

too far. His legs felt different when he walked. He ignored it.

He had better things to do than worry about random body aches.

But when he pulled on his uniform one morning and realized his pants sat

slightly different on his waist, he frowned at himself in the mirror.

He wasn’t gaining weight, was he? That would be unfair.

Yet, despite everything, he still didn’t connect the dots.

Why would he?

At first, Pond didn’t think much of it.

It was just a passing comment here and there.

“Did you do something to your hair?” Phuwin asked, squinting at him during lunch.

Pond frowned, running a hand through his hair. “No. Why?”

Phuwin just shrugged, looking uncertain. “Dunno. It looks... different.”

Pond scoffed. “Yeah, okay. Real specific.”

Then, the next day—

"Your skin looks clearer today," Jeff muttered absently while scrolling through his phone.

Pond blinked. "Was it bad before?"

Jeff barely glanced up. "Not really. But it’s just… I dunno. You just look different."

Pond rolled his eyes.

And then Fort—who never cared about things like this—gave

him a once-over before tilting his head.

“Did you get more sleep or something?”

Pond raised an eyebrow. “No? Why?”

Fort hesitated. "You just seem... brighter?"

Pond stared at him. "The hell does that mean?"

Fort scratched the back of his head. “Dunno. Just feels

like you have some kind of new glow or something.”

Pond groaned. “Are you guys planning this? What’s with the weird comments?”

Phuwin and Jeff exchanged glances, clearly equally confused.

"We’re not making it up," Phuwin said.

"It’s just—you're kinda... more noticeable lately?"

Pond snorted. "Yeah, ‘cause I’ve always been invisible before."

Jeff shook his head. “No, like—it’s different.”

Pond rolled his eyes, dismissing it.

Whatever.

His friends were just being weird.

Even the Others Noticed

The strangest moment was when a random classmate—one

of the guys from another section—paused mid-walk when passing by Pond and his group.

He stared, like he was seeing something for the first time.

"...Huh."

Pond frowned. "What?"

The guy blinked, then shook his head quickly. "Nothing,

just—thought you looked kinda different for a second."

Pond squinted. "The hell does that mean?"

The guy just shrugged awkwardly and walked off.

Pond stared after him, then turned back to his friends.

“Okay, seriously. What’s going on?”

Jeff sighed. “We just told you. You look different.”

“But how?!” Pond demanded.

Up hesitated before saying slowly, “Like... if you were

standing in a crowd, I think I’d wanna look at you first.”

Pond gaped. “What does that even mean?!”

“Exactly what it sounds like,” Phuwin said. “You just pull attention more now.”

Pond huffed, waving it off.

They were being dramatic.

He wasn’t different.

There was no reason he would be.

…Right?

As the weeks passed, the entire school was consumed by exam season.

Stress levels were at an all-time high, and even the most laid-back

students had their noses buried in books. The usual playful fights and

social drama took a backseat to sleepless nights, last-minute

revisions, and caffeine-fueled study sessions.

Even Pond and Joong had toned down their rivalry—well, slightly.

"You actually look serious for once," Joong commented, leaning

against Pond’s desk as he flipped through a textbook.

"Shut up," Pond muttered, rubbing his temples. "Unlike some people,

I don’t have the luxury of coasting through exams with an oversized ego."

Joong smirked. "You’re just mad because I’ll still score higher than you."

Pond resisted the urge to throw his pen at him.

Despite their usual banter, neither of them had much energy for full-blown arguments.

The pressure was enough to distract Pond from the strange way his body had been feeling lately.

At first, it was nothing—just little things he barely noticed. A weird warmth

in his lower stomach, the way his uniform felt just slightly different.

He chalked it up to stress and exhaustion. But then, the odd moments started stacking up.

The heat in his body lingered longer than usual, and he found himself getting

irritated over nothing. Even Joong’s usual annoying presence felt...

different. Like the air shifted slightly when he was too close.

Then, there were the looks.

He first noticed it in class when Fort, in the middle of solving

a problem on the board, glanced at him and did a double take.

"What?" Pond whispered, feeling annoyed.

Fort squinted. "Nothing. Just thought you—never mind."

He shook his head and went back to writing.

It wasn’t just Fort. A few others in his class had given him similar

second glances, expressions ranging from puzzled to curious. Some of his

friends even mentioned, offhandedly, that he seemed "different" lately,

though no one could explain how.

Pond just rolled his eyes and ignored it.

Maybe he was just that good-looking.

Or maybe, just maybe, it was something else entirely.

But whatever it was, he didn’t have time to think about it.

Exams came first. Everything else could wait.

The end-of-exam party was exactly what everyone needed. After weeks of stress,

sleepless nights, and endless study sessions, the students were finally free.

The main hall of the hostel was buzzing with energy—laughter echoed against the walls,

music played from someone's speaker, and snacks were piled high on every available

surface. Some students had already flopped onto the couches, exhausted but happy, while

others danced in the middle of the room,

celebrating their temporary freedom from academics.

Pond had thrown himself onto one of the sofas, stretching out with a satisfied

sigh as he watched the chaos unfold. "Finally," he muttered, taking a

sip from his soda. "I thought those exams were going to kill me."

"Yeah, well, if you actually studied instead of whining about them, maybe

you wouldn’t have suffered so much," Joong's voice came from nearby,

his usual smug tone making Pond instantly sit up.

"Excuse me?" Pond narrowed his eyes at Joong, who was leaning against

the wall, arms crossed, looking way too pleased with himself.

"You heard me," Joong said, raising an eyebrow. "I saw you panicking the

night before every test. Meanwhile, I was just chilling, confident in my answers."

"Confident my ass," Pond scoffed. "You probably just got lucky."

"Lucky?" Joong let out a short laugh. "Please,

I'm just naturally better at this than you."

That was all it took. One little push, and suddenly, the entire night took a turn.

Pond shot up from the couch, standing toe-to-toe with Joong. "You think

you're better than me at everything, don’t you?" His voice was sharp,

laced with irritation that had been building up for years.

"I don't think, I know," Joong replied, smirking.

The tension between them thickened in an instant. Their rivalry was

nothing new—everyone in the room had witnessed it countless times before—but

tonight, something was different. The atmosphere shifted from playful

to something much more serious, much more heated.

"You’re so damn full of yourself!" Pond snapped, pushing against Joong’s shoulder.

Joong’s smirk dropped. He grabbed Pond’s wrist before he could pull back,

eyes flashing with something unreadable. "And you’re so damn stubborn!"

Before anyone knew it, they were grabbing at each other's collars,

their faces inches apart, their breathing heavy with frustration. The

room fell silent, everyone watching with wide eyes. This wasn’t

their usual back-and-forth teasing. This was something else.

Something raw.

"Guys, seriously, knock it off," Fort’s voice cut through

the air, but neither of them listened.

"Let it go already," Boss added, stepping forward, but it was

like Joong and Pond couldn’t even hear them.

Their grips tightened, their bodies tense as if daring the other to

make the first move. It felt like one wrong word would

make them actually start throwing punches.

And then—

Joong let go.

Just like that.

His fingers uncurled from Pond’s collar, and he stepped

back. His expression unreadable, his jaw tight.

Pond stumbled slightly from the sudden release,

blinking in confusion. "What the—?"

He expected another insult, another smirk, another push. But

Joong just stood there, looking at him with an expression that

made Pond's stomach twist.

Something about this moment felt…off.

But Pond wasn’t about to ask. He wasn’t about to give Joong

the satisfaction of knowing he’d caught him off guard.

Instead, he scoffed, adjusting his collar as if brushing off the

whole thing. "Tch. Whatever," he muttered, turning away.

The party slowly picked up again, but the energy wasn’t quite the same.

The fight had changed the mood. People stole glances at Joong

and Pond, whispering among themselves.

And Pond?

Pond scoffed, turning back to his drink, but his hands were

clenched tighter than he wanted to admit.

Joong let go first. Why?

He wasn’t supposed to. That wasn’t how their fights went. Usually,

one of them pushed until someone else dragged them apart, or they traded

insults until they were satisfied. But this? This was different.

Joong had let go. And he had walked away.

And that look…

Pond took another sip of his soda, but the sugar tasted bitter on his

tongue. He could still feel the weight of Joong’s gaze across the room,

though when he glanced over, Joong was back with his own group—Boss saying

something to him, First nudging his arm, Santa laughing about something.

They looked normal. Joong looked normal.

But he wasn’t.

Pond knew him too well. His posture was too stiff, his jaw too tight.

Like he didn’t know what the hell had just happened either.

Good.

That made two of them.

"Pond, quit staring. It’s weird."

Pond snapped his head toward Fort, who had leaned in close,

grinning like he had just caught Pond red-handed.

"Shut up," Pond muttered, looking away.

"You’re really gonna pretend that wasn’t something?"

"It was nothing."

Fort hummed, unconvinced. "Well, whatever it was, it killed the mood.

Perth and Jeff are trying to fix it, but half the people in this

room are still side-eyeing you two like they’re waiting for round two."

Pond rolled his shoulders, trying to loosen the tension in his body.

"Let them wait. I don’t care."

But that was a lie.

Because somewhere deep in his gut, something was still

twisting. And it had nothing to do with their fight.

The next morning, the hostel was a storm of movement. Suitcases dragged

across the floor, zippers buzzed as bags were stuffed to the limit, and

voices filled the hallways—some excited, some frantic as

people searched for last-minute forgotten items.

Pond barely managed to close his suitcase, sitting on top of it with a

grunt before zipping it shut. "Three months away from this hellhole,"

he muttered. "Finally."

"You mean three months without Joong," Fort teased, leaning against the doorframe.

Pond didn’t even look up. "I mean three months without all of you."

Fort clutched his chest dramatically. "Ouch.

And here I was going to say I’d miss you."

Pond rolled his eyes, hauling his suitcase upright. "Let’s just go."

By the time they reached the main hall, the place was packed. Some students were

already outside, waiting for their rides, while others were in clusters,

exchanging last-minute jokes and shoving each other around.

Pond’s group was by the entrance.

Joong’s group was near the stairs.

Exactly how it should be.

The groups had always coexisted like that—never outright enemies,

but not exactly friendly either. They could talk when necessary,

but sitting together? Laughing together? That wasn’t their style.

Pond caught a glimpse of Joong—standing with Boss,

talking about something

with that usual smug expression on his face. Whatever. It didn’t matter.

"Alright, everyone, time for goodbyes," Fort announced,

clapping his hands. "Try not to cry too hard without me."

"I’ll cry from relief," Up shot back. "Three months of peace."

"Say that again when you’re bored out of your mind at home," Fort smirked.

Everyone exchanged their goodbyes—some quick, some drawn out, all full of the

same excitement of finally escaping school life for a while. Pond

bumped fists with Dunk, got a quick pat on the back from Perth, and nearly

had to wrestle his phone away from Jeff, who was trying to

install some weird new app on it before they left.

It was chaotic. Loud.

Exactly how it should be.

And then, just like that, it was time to go.

Pond grabbed his suitcase and headed toward the front

doors without a second glance back.

Joong?

Not even on his mind.

Chapter Text

Pond stretched out on his bed, letting out a sigh. It had been a few days

since he got home, and for the most part, everything felt normal.

No school, no Joong, no annoying arguments—just peace.

But that peace didn’t extend to his body.

Something felt off.

At first, he thought it was just leftover exhaustion from exams,

but the odd sensation in his lower region refused to go away. It wasn’t pain,

not exactly, but there was a strange heaviness. A discomfort he couldn’t shake.

Lying there, he shifted his legs, adjusting his position—then suddenly froze.

His heart started to pound.

Something felt different.

His hands trembled as they hovered over his stomach, then hesitantly trailed lower.

A cold shiver ran through his spine as he pressed his thighs together.

The familiar weight he was used to wasn’t quite… the same.

Pond shot up from his bed, rushing to the bathroom. He slammed the door shut,

breathing heavily as he stared at himself in the mirror. His face looked

the same, his body hadn’t changed drastically, but deep inside, he could

feel it. Something was happening to him.

His mind raced back to the special classes. No. No way. That was supposed

to happen over months, right? He wasn’t even fully presenting yet. There was no reason for—

He hesitated before hesitantly pulling down his waistband, just enough to confirm his fear.

The moment he saw—his stomach twisted.

It wasn’t gone, but it wasn’t the same. The shape, the texture,

even the way it felt—it was changing.

Pond stumbled back against the sink, gripping the counter as panic

clawed at his chest. His breathing was uneven, his entire body tensed.

What the hell is happening to me?

It wasn’t just a thought anymore. It wasn’t something he could ignore.

His body was changing.

And worse—he knew what that meant.

An Omega.

His chest tightened painfully at the thought. No. No way. He had never

once considered the possibility. He had always imagined himself as an

Alpha—strong, confident, untouchable. That was the ideal. That was what he wanted.

But even if he wasn’t an Alpha, he could live with being a Beta. Betas

were normal. Neutral. No one looked at them differently. No one

expected anything from them.

But an Omega?

His stomach churned. He felt like he was going to be sick.

Omegas were—

He squeezed his eyes shut, inhaling sharply through his nose.

No. He couldn’t think about it. He refused to.

Maybe… maybe it wasn’t what he thought. Maybe it was temporary. A mistake.

Yeah. That had to be it.

Pond forced himself to take a deep breath, pushing down the wave of

nausea threatening to overwhelm him. His fingers were still

gripping the counter so tightly his knuckles turned white.

This wasn’t happening. It couldn’t be happening.

And until he was sure…

No one could know

The days dragged by, heavy and suffocating.

Pond barely left his room. He spent most of his time curled up in bed,

staring at the ceiling, lost in thoughts that refused to quiet down.

His body felt foreign—like something shifting under his skin, something

beyond his control. He tried to convince himself it wasn’t real, that if

he ignored it long enough, it would stop. But every time he moved, every

time he shifted his legs, every time he caught the faintest change in sensation,

reality came crashing down again.

He hated it.

His parents noticed.

“Pond, are you okay? You’ve been so quiet lately,”

his mother asked one morning,

watching him over the breakfast table. His father, usually

buried in the morning news, glanced up as well.

“I’m fine.” Pond shoved a spoonful of rice into his mouth, avoiding her gaze.

“You sure? You don’t seem fine.”

“Just tired.”

His father gave a small hum of acknowledgment, not pushing, but his mother

wasn’t convinced. She studied him for a moment longer, eyes filled with

quiet concern, before finally letting it go.

But Pond knew she was still watching him.

And a few days later, she caught him.

It was late at night. Everyone was asleep, the house silent except for the

faint hum of the air conditioning. Pond had spent hours tossing and turning,

his mind a tangled mess of fear and frustration.

Then, without realizing it, he broke.

Tears spilled down his cheeks before he could stop them, silent but

unstoppable. He curled in on himself, fists clenched, shoulders shaking.

Why?

Why him?

A sharp knock on the door made him freeze.

“Pond?”

His mother’s voice was soft, but there was an edge of worry in it.

He frantically wiped at his face, but his breath hitched, betraying him.

The door creaked open.

And the moment she saw him—her expression crumpled.

“Oh, sweetheart…”

Before he could say anything, before he could even think of an

excuse, she was already at his bedside, pulling him into a warm embrace.

Pond stiffened, but the moment her hand smoothed over his hair, something inside him cracked.

He buried his face against her shoulder, and the sob he had been holding back finally escaped.

His mother held him tighter. “Shh, baby, it’s okay. It’s okay. Just breathe.”

For a long moment, neither of them spoke. She just rocked him gently,

rubbing soothing circles on his back like she used to do when he was a child.

When his cries had quieted into shaky breaths, she pulled

back just enough to look at him, her hands cupping his face.

“Tell me what’s wrong,” she whispered. “Please, Pond.”

Pond’s throat was dry. He wanted to deny it, push her away, lock it all

up inside like he had been doing for days. But he couldn’t. Not with her

looking at him like that, like he was the most precious thing in the world.

His voice came out hoarse, barely above a whisper.

“…I think I’m presenting.”

His mother didn’t react right away. She stayed still,

absorbing his words, waiting for him to continue.

“And I think…” His fingers twisted into the blanket, his heart

hammering in his chest. “I think I’m an Omega.”

There. He said it. The words were out.

He braced himself. For what, he didn’t know. Disappointment? Pity?

But none of it came.

Instead, his mother smiled.

A soft, warm smile that made something deep in his chest ache.

“Oh, my sweet boy,” she whispered, brushing his hair away

from his damp forehead. “You must have been so scared.”

Pond’s breath hitched.

He hadn’t expected that.

Not the kindness. Not the understanding.

Not the way she instantly pulled him into another hug, as if he wasn’t

something different, something lesser—just her son.

“It’s okay,” she murmured against his hair. “Pond, this isn’t a bad thing.”

His fingers curled into her sleeve, gripping tightly. “But… I don’t want to

be an Omega.” His voice wavered, cracking under the weight of the

truth. “I wanted to be an Alpha. Or at least a Beta. But this… this—”

He couldn’t finish.

His mother pulled back again, her hands resting firmly on his shoulders.

“Listen to me,” she said, her voice gentle but unwavering. “Being an Omega

isn’t something to be ashamed of. It’s a gift, Pond. A gift of nature.

And I am so lucky to have you.”

Pond swallowed hard, his chest tightening. “But—”

“No buts.” She cupped his face again, her thumbs brushing away the lingering

tears on his cheeks. “You are perfect exactly as you are. Nothing—nothing—changes that.”

Pond didn’t know what to say.

For days, he had been drowning in fear, in self-loathing, in the crushing

uncertainty of what his body was turning into. He had been so sure no one would understand.

But now, looking at his mother, feeling the warmth of her unwavering love—

For the first time since it all started, he felt like maybe, just maybe, he wasn’t alone.

The house was buzzing with energy.

Pond had expected hesitation—maybe even disappointment—but the

moment his parents confirmed the inevitable, the complete opposite happened.

His father clapped him on the back, grinning wider than Pond had

ever seen. His mother practically radiated joy, wiping away happy

tears as she fussed over him. Even his younger cousins, who had

stopped by for dinner, seemed excited, chattering about how cool it was.

Being an Omega wasn’t a curse.

It was a celebration.

“You have no idea how lucky you are,” his aunt gushed, squeezing

his hands. “Omegas are so rare in our family! It’s a blessing, Pond.”

His uncle nodded. “Back in my day, everyone hoped for an

Omega in the family. It means our bloodline is strong.”

Pond blinked, stunned. “...Really?”

His father laughed. “Of course! Do you know how much care and respect

an Omega receives? You’re special, Pond. No one in their

right mind would ever think otherwise.”

Pond felt something loosen in his chest. He had spent so much time

dreading this, convincing himself that everything would change for

the worse. But instead… the house was filled with laughter, the mood lighter

than it had been in ages. His mother even made his favorite

dishes for dinner, a clear sign of celebration.

For the first time since he noticed his body changing,

he didn’t feel like something was being taken from him.

He felt like something had been given.

And just like that, the crushing weight on his shoulders started to lift.

Pond couldn’t sleep.

The ceiling of his bedroom blurred as he lay stiff on his bed,

stomach twisting with anxiety.

It was done. His body had fully changed. There was no denying

it anymore. He will be present as an omega, but when.

And in just a few days, he would have to go back.

Back to school. Back to his friends. Back to Joong.

Pond squeezed his eyes shut, gripping his blanket tightly. His friends

had always joked that he’d be an Alpha—strong, dominant, even better

than Joong. He used to laugh along with them,

brushing off their words with a cocky grin. But now?

He felt sick just thinking about it.

How was he supposed to face them?

How was he supposed to explain that everything they believed about him was wrong?

And Joong—God.

If Joong found out, Pond was done for. He could already imagine the smug

grin, the endless teasing, the mockery that would never stop.

Joong would make his life a living hell.

Pond rolled over, burying his face into his pillow. Maybe he was

overthinking. Maybe his friends wouldn’t care as much as he feared.

But deep down, that little voice of doubt refused to be silenced.

He wasn’t ready for this.

But he had no choice.

In just a few days, he’d be back in the same school,

sitting in the same classroom, walking the same halls.

And no matter how much he wanted to avoid it—sooner

or later, everyone would know.

The moment Pond stepped through the academy gates, he felt it.

Eyes.

Staring, watching, lingering on him in a way that sent a shiver down his spine.

At first, he thought he was imagining it. Maybe it was just the

usual back-to-school excitement—people noticing each other after months

apart. But then the whispers started. The side-glances. The way people’s

gazes dropped, scanning him up and down like they were searching for something.

What the hell?

He adjusted his bag strap and quickened his steps, trying to shake the

odd feeling creeping up his neck. But it didn’t stop. If anything, it got worse.

“Pond! Long time no see,” someone called, stepping into his path.

Pond barely had time to process before another voice chimed in.

“Damn, you look different. Did you do something over the break?”

“No,” he said flatly, trying to brush past.

But they weren’t done.

“Looking good, man.” A smirk. A wink.

Too close.

Pond’s stomach twisted.

He wasn’t new to attention—he had confidence, he knew

he was good-looking. But this? This was different.

It wasn’t just admiration. It was interest.

Unwanted interest.

Before he could escape, another group joined in.

“Hey, Pond! You single?” A Beta grinned, leaning in like

he was joking—but his eyes said otherwise.

“You should sit with us at lunch.” A casual arm around

his shoulder, lingering just a second too long.

Pond jerked away, heart racing. What was this? Since

when did people act like this around him?

Pond didn’t wait. He turned and bolted toward the building,

ignoring the disappointed groans behind him.

Something was seriously wrong.

And the worst part?

He had a sinking feeling he already knew why.

The moment Pond stepped into the classroom, he barely had time to blink before chaos erupted.

Gasps filled the air.

Chairs scraped against the floor as Dunk shot up from

his seat like he’d been electrocuted. “HOLY SHIT—”

Pond barely had time to react before Dunk lunged, gripping his

shoulders and spinning him around like a mannequin on display.

“WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED TO YOU?”

“What?” Pond scowled, trying to yank himself free,

but Dunk was relentless.

“You—your face—your skin—your—” Dunk waved a frantic hand at Pond’s

whole existence before dramatically grabbing his own head.

“WHY ARE YOU SO ATTRACTIVE ALL OF A SUDDEN?”

Up and Perth rushed over, eyes wide with horror and fascination.

“Wait, wait, wait,” Up interrupted, narrowing his eyes.

“Is it just me, or does Pond look… different?”

“Different?” Perth scoffed. “Bro, he looks like he stepped

out of a goddamn romance novel. What did you do over break?!”

“I didn’t do anything!” Pond snapped, finally shoving Dunk off.

Dunk wasn’t convinced. He squinted, leaned in way too close,

and whispered suspiciously, “Did you get plastic surgery?”

Pond shoved his face away. “WHAT? NO!”

“Then explain THIS!” Dunk flailed his arms, as if

gesturing at all of Pond.

Jeff, who had been watching the chaos with crossed arms,

finally sighed and rubbed his temples. “I mean… he does look kinda—”

“—Hot,” Fort finished, nodding.

Silence.

Pond’s stomach twisted.

Then—

“OH MY GOD,” Dunk howled, grabbing his chest dramatically.

“POND, I THINK I’M IN LOVE WITH YOU.”

“Dunk, sit down,” Jeff deadpanned.

But Dunk wasn’t alone.

Perth clutched his heart like he was on the verge of collapse.

“Dude, I kinda wanna kiss him. Is that weird?”

“Yes,” Pond hissed. “YES, THAT’S VERY WEIRD.”

Up snorted. “No, but seriously. What the hell happened to you? You

look… I don’t know, your whole aura changed. It’s like you’ve

got this—this glow or something.”

Dunk’s eyes widened. “Wait. WAIT. You’re not—” He leaned in, whispering

like he was delivering the biggest scandal in history. “Did you present?”

Pond stiffened.

Too fast. Too direct. Too much.

He forced out a scoff, crossing his arms. “No. And stop acting like

I just transformed into some magical creature. I’m still me, dumbass.”

“Are you, though?” Perth squinted. “Because, bro, I swear I’ve never

wanted to make out with you before, and now it’s like—”

“FINISH THAT SENTENCE AND I’M PUNCHING YOU.”

Pond’s face was burning. This was a disaster. He’d expected teasing,

maybe some jokes, but this? His own friends thirsting over him

like he was some kind of forbidden fantasy?

Jeff, ever the logical one, sighed and finally stepped in. “Okay,

okay, that’s enough. Let’s not make Pond’s first day back a damn circus.”

Pond sent him a grateful look.

…Until Jeff smirked.

“Besides, if anyone should be worried, it’s Joong.”

Pond froze.

“What?”

Jeff shrugged, looking far too amused. “I mean, imagine

his reaction when he sees you like this.”

The room went silent.

Then—

“OH MY GOD, JOONG IS GONNA LOSE HIS MIND.”

“SHUT UP,” Pond yelled, slamming his hands over his ears as

his so-called friends howled with laughter.

This was going to be a long day.

Chapter Text

After barely surviving the chaos with his friends, Pond just wants to sit down

and breathe. But before he can even think about recovering, the classroom door swings open.

And there he is.

Joong.

Pond doesn’t even realize he’s been holding his breath until

Joong walks past him. Just like that. No comment, no insult, no mocking smirk.

For a moment, relief washes over him. Maybe he

didn’t recognize me? Maybe he just doesn’t care?

But that thought doesn’t sit right. It should bother Joong.

Joong always had something to say—always had to challenge him,

especially in front of others. The fact that he didn’t? Oh,

that was worse than an insult.

Pond straightens, his pride flaring up. He tilts his chin and smirks.

“What’s wrong, Joong? Shocked into silence? Didn’t expect me to look this good?”

Joong finally looks at him, his lips curling into something unreadable

—something almost amused. “Shocked?” He scoffs, shaking his head.

“Please. I just don’t waste my time picking fights with

someone who's not even a real Alpha.”

Silence.

Pond’s whole body locks up. His stomach twists, heat flooding

through his chest, then rushing to his face. His mind barely registers

the collective gasp from his friends, the sharp inhale from Dunk,

or Fort muttering, “Oh, shit.”

Not even a real Alpha.

Joong might as well have slapped him across the face.

“You bastard—!” Pond lunges before he even thinks.

Dunk and Fort react instantly, grabbing his arms, yanking

him back before he can throw a punch.

Joong? He barely even flinches. He just smirks, like he was expecting

this, like he knew exactly how to push Pond over the edge.

“See? Proving my point.” He turns away, completely dismissing him.

Pond thrashes in his friends’ grip. “Let me go! I swear, I’ll—”

Dunk is still holding him back, but suddenly, he hesitates. His

gaze lingers on Pond, his expression shifting from

amusement to something more serious.

“…Wait.” Dunk narrows his eyes, scanning Pond’s face.

Then his shoulders tense. “Wait a damn minute—”

Up stiffens beside him, then looks at the others. “Guys… I think I get it now.”

Fort frowns. “Get what?”

Jeff leans in, eyes sharp with realization.

“Pond… something happened over the break, didn’t it?”

The air changes.

The teasing stops. The jokes fade. They really look at him now.

Pond swallows hard. His stomach churns.

They know.

They finally realize what’s actually going on.

Pond inhaled sharply. His heart pounded against his ribs, and for a moment,

he thought about lying. About denying it. About laughing it off, calling

them stupid, saying, What the hell are you talking about?

But what was the point?

They already knew.

“You’re serious?” Dunk nearly shouted, gripping Pond’s

shoulders. “You’re really—?”

“Yes! Yes, I just said it!” Pond snapped, shaking Dunk off, but

his voice was drowned out by the rest of the group exploding into noise.

“Holy shit—”
“This is insane!”
“Pond, you’re literally the first male Omega we’ve ever met!”
“This is history in the making!”

Pond gawked as his friends cheered like he’d just won a national

championship. Fort even looked like he was about to start clapping.

“What the hell is wrong with you guys?” Pond blurted, baffled by their excitement.

Up practically bounced in his seat. “Do you know how rare this is?

We’ve heard about male Omegas, but they’re almost mythical! And now,

one of our best friends is one? Bro, this is legendary!”

Jeff nodded eagerly. “It’s like discovering a unicorn.”

“A really attractive unicorn,” Dunk added with a dramatic sigh,

still in disbelief. “Damn, Pond, you really leveled up. It’s

like evolution hit you with an exclusive upgrade.”

“Shut up!” Pond groaned, face burning. “Why the hell

are you acting like this is a good thing?!”

“Because it is!” Perth said, grinning. “You’re special, man.

And let’s be real—you were always kinda different. This just proves it.”

Pond huffed, crossing his arms. It was ridiculous. He’d spent

days panicking about how his friends would react, expecting disappointment

or pity. Instead, they were treating him like some rare treasure.

It made no sense. But at the same time… he felt lighter.

They weren’t disgusted. They weren’t making fun of him.

They were happy.

Before Pond could fully process that relief, his gaze landed on Joong.

Unlike everyone else, Joong hadn’t said a word. He was just leaning

back in his chair, arms crossed, watching the scene

unfold with an unreadable expression.

Pond narrowed his eyes. “What? Got nothing to say, oh mighty Alpha?”

Joong’s lips curled into a smirk, but it didn’t reach his eyes.

“Nah. I just don’t fight with—” He tilted his head slightly,

letting the pause drag just long enough to be infuriating.

“—fragile things.”

Silence.

Pond’s stomach twisted.

His breath hitched.

Something about that word sank into him like a stone in

water, dragging his pride down with it.

Fragile.

Joong had called him fragile.

It wasn’t an insult, not directly. But it felt worse than

anything else Joong had ever thrown at him.

Pond scoffed, masking the sudden tightness in his chest. “Tch. Whatever.”

He turned away, sitting down with a thud. His friends, still excited,

continued chattering, but their voices faded into background noise.

Pond barely registered them.

All he could hear was Joong’s voice in his head.

Fragile.

He didn’t care.

He didn’t.

He wasn’t going to give Joong the satisfaction of a reaction.

From this moment on, Pond decided—he wasn’t going to talk

to Joong. He wasn’t even going to look at him.

If Joong thought he was weak, then fine.

He wouldn’t waste another second on him.

The classroom was still buzzing after the announcement. The dorm

pairings had been completely rearranged, and everyone

was dying to find out who they’d be stuck with.

The dormitory hall buzzed with excitement as students rushed to find

their new rooms, dragging luggage and calling out to one another. Some

were thrilled about their roommates, others groaned in disappointment,

but overall, the atmosphere was lively—except for Pond,

who stood frozen in place, staring at the nameplate on his assigned door.

His heartbeat quickened.

This had to be a mistake. There was no way.

Taking a deep breath, he stepped inside and set his bag down on the

bed, trying to stay calm. The room was simple—two beds, two desks, a

shared wardrobe. Not bad. As long as his roommate wasn’t someone

unbearable, he could deal with it.

The doorknob turned.

Pond’s stomach dropped.

The door swung open, and in walked Joong.

Pond almost screamed.

Joong, carrying a duffel bag over his shoulder, barely spared him a

glance before stepping inside and tossing his stuff onto the other bed.

His movements were relaxed, casual—like

he hadn’t just walked into the worst possible nightmare.

Pond snapped out of his daze.

"No. Nope. Absolutely not." He pointed at Joong like he was an intruder. "Get out."

Joong raised a brow, clearly amused. "It’s my room too."

"Not anymore."

Joong let out a dry chuckle, dragging his bag toward the wardrobe.

"You’re acting like you own the place."

Pond took a deep breath, trying to stay calm. “I was here first.”

"And I was assigned here."

Pond wanted to strangle whoever the hell

decided to pair them up. This had to be a joke.

Before he could argue more, a loud voice rang through the hallway.

"MY LIFE IS OVER!"

First dramatically collapsed against the doorway, looking like he

had just received the worst news of his life.

Behind him, Up followed with a smug grin.

"You’re overreacting," Up said. "We’ve been friends for years."

"Exactly. I’ve suffered for years. And now I have to live with you?!" First groaned.

Dunk and Phuwin arrived next, Dunk looking ridiculously pleased

as he slung an arm around Phuwin. "We got paired! This is fate!"

Phuwin just sighed. "Fate is cruel."

Santa and Perth appeared soon after, along with Boss and Fort. Ta

and Jeff trailed behind them, all casually chatting

as they peeked into each other’s rooms.

For the most part, everyone seemed content with

their roommate assignments. Some were even happy.

And then Dunk froze.

His eyes darted between Pond and Joong, standing in the same room.

Silence.

Then—

"OH MY GOD. YOU TWO?!"

The reaction was instant.

First gasped. Perth looked like he wanted to record this moment. Santa

grinned like he had won a bet. Boss and Fort exchanged

amused glances, while Jeff simply whistled.

"Damn," Ta said. "This is gonna be interesting."

Pond, already on edge, felt his blood pressure spike.

Joong, on the other hand, just stretched lazily before flopping onto his bed.

"Better get used to it, roomie," he said, smirking.

Pond clenched his jaw so hard he thought his teeth might crack.

This was going to be a long year.

Pond wasn’t happy. Not even a little.

He yanked open his suitcase with more force than necessary, aggressively

pulling out his clothes and shoving them into the wardrobe. Why

him? Why out of all people did it have to be Joong?

The room was already feeling suffocating, and when Pond turned slightly,

he noticed something that made his irritation spike even further—Joong was watching him.

Just casually lying there, one arm propped behind his head, staring.

Pond's brows twitched. What the hell was he looking at?

He could already imagine Joong’s smug thoughts. Bet he’s thinking how

weird I’ve become. How different I look. How he can use this to annoy me even more.

Fine. If he wanted to watch, Pond would make sure he saw nothing.

With a sharp huff, he stomped over to his bed, grabbed the spare curtain

from his suitcase, and got to work. He hooked it between the open

space of the bunk beds, effectively dividing the room in half.

Joong sat up slightly, amused. "Seriously?"

Pond didn’t even glance at him as he adjusted the curtain to block

as much as possible. "I don’t need your eyes all over me while I sleep."

Joong smirked. "What, are you scared?"

Pond froze. Then, slowly, he turned his head, eyes narrowed.

"Scared? Of what? You? Don’t make me laugh."

Joong leaned back against his pillow, looking far too entertained.

"Then why the dramatic setup? Feels like you’re afraid I’ll

pounce on you or something."

Pond’s entire face burned.

"Excuse me?! Why would I ever think that?! Who the hell do you think you are?!"

Joong shrugged lazily. "I don’t know, you’re the one acting like I’m

some kind of threat. If I knew you’d turn into a skittish kitten,

I would’ve asked for a different roommate."

Pond gritted his teeth. "Well, guess what? I don’t want to be here

either, but we’re stuck with each other, so shut up and deal with it!"

Joong simply chuckled, clearly enjoying himself.

Pond clenched his fists, resisting the urge to throw something at him.

He yanked his blanket over his shoulders and sat on his bed,

aggressively scrolling through his phone to distract

himself from the absolute fury burning inside him.

The curtain between them stood firm, but Pond knew—this was far from over.

Pond could still hear Joong’s annoying chuckle from behind the

curtain, and his rage only grew hotter. Kitten? He called him a kitten?

Without thinking, he moved.

He ripped the curtain aside and pounced.

His fist connected with Joong’s face—a direct punch.

Joong’s head barely moved, but the impact left a sting on Pond’s knuckles.

Joong’s body was solid, all muscle, and as an Alpha, his pain

tolerance was ridiculously high. He probably felt it like a tap.

But his ego? That was a different story.

Joong’s smirk vanished. His jaw tensed, his body went

rigid, and his eyes—they turned red.

A dangerous silence fell between them.

Pond’s heart pounded against his ribs, but he refused to step back.

"You—" Joong exhaled through his nose, fists clenching at his

sides. "Did you just hit me?"

Pond gritted his teeth, his entire body vibrating with anger. "Yeah,

I did! What? You think just because you’re an Alpha, you

can look down on me? Think you’re superior or something?!"

Joong’s hand shot forward before Pond could react.

A fistful of his collar—yanked forward.

Pond stumbled, gasping. Joong’s grip was tight,

unrelenting, his knuckles pressing against Pond’s chest.

"How dare you?" Joong growled, voice low and dangerously quiet.

Pond’s breath hitched, but he glared right back. "What? You

can dish it out but can’t take it? You call me a

damn kitten, but you get pissed over a single punch?"

Joong’s jaw flexed, his entire frame vibrating with rage.

Then, with one swift movement—he shoved Pond backward.

Hard.

Pond’s back slammed onto the bed with a thud. Even though it

was a mattress, he felt the force reverberate through his spine.

He gasped sharply, dazed for half a second, but Joong was

already towering over him, hands braced on either side of the

bed frame. His face was too close, his scent overwhelming.

"You hit first. Don’t whine when I hit back."

Pond pushed himself up on his elbows, eyes burning. "I wasn’t whining,

asshole! Unlike you, I don’t hide behind my Alpha status like it makes me untouchable!"

Joong’s nostrils flared. His hands curled tighter

into the sheets before he scoffed and stepped back.

"Forget it," Joong muttered, turning away.

"I don’t even want to see your damn face."

Pond sat up fully, still breathless, still furious.

"Good! That’s exactly why I put the damn curtain up in the first place!"

Joong grabbed his pillow and hurled it at the partition,

making the whole thing sway violently.

Pond’s pulse thundered in his ears. This wasn’t just a fight.

This was the start of something else entirely.

Chapter Text

The next morning, Pond walked into class with a scowl on his face

and dark circles under his eyes. His bad mood hadn't

faded—if anything, it had solidified.

The moment he stepped inside, his friends perked up immediately.

"Damn, Pond!" Dunk slung an arm around his shoulder.

"You look like you fought a war last night!"

Pond shrugged him off. "I did. And I lost my will to live."

Perth laughed. "Don't be dramatic. Today’s the first day

of the new term! New year, new memories, bro."

Pond grunted, unconvinced. His mood soured further when he caught

sight of Joong strolling in—completely at ease,

refreshed, like he had the best sleep of his life.

The Alpha’s gaze landed on him instantly.

Pond felt it. He ignored it.

Joong sauntered over with his usual cocky energy,

plopping down in his seat with a lazy grin. "Didn’t sleep well, Kitty?"

Pond clenched his jaw but didn’t react.

Joong nudged his desk with his foot. "What? No comeback?

That’s new. Did you break overnight?"

Still, Pond said nothing.

He heard Dunk gasp. "Wait. Pond, are

you actually ignoring Joong?"

Phuwin leaned in with wide eyes. "Holy shit, that’s possible?"

Joong raised a brow, clearly amused. "Oh? So,

you’re serious about this silent treatment?"

Pond continued staring straight ahead, pretending Joong didn’t exist.

For the first time, Joong’s smirk faded slightly.

"Wow," Santa whispered. "Did Joong actually break Pond?"

First whistled. "Nah, more like Pond is on a whole new level of pissed."

Meanwhile, Pond’s thoughts were a mess.

He knew ignoring Joong was childish. He knew it probably wouldn’t last long.

But right now, it was the only thing keeping him sane.

By the time the lunch bell rang, Pond had successfully "ignored"

Joong for the entire morning. It took everything in him to do so—especially

when Joong tried to nudge his chair with his foot or muttered something under

his breath that Pond refused to acknowledge. But he had done it. **Small victory.**

Now, he just wanted to eat in peace.

As he walked toward the cafeteria with his friends, he felt the

weight of **too many eyes** on him. It wasn’t the usual glances he

used to get before vacation. This time, people weren’t just

looking—they were observing him, almost in **awe**.

Pond frowned.

At first, he thought maybe there was something on his face.

But no, it wasn’t that. The students weren’t whispering about anything

embarrassing. If anything, their gazes held something like… admiration?

It was **weird.**

He sat down with his friends, shaking off the feeling. It wasn’t

his problem. He was here to eat, not to deal with whatever this was.

But before he could even pick up his spoon, **a few

students from other classes approached him.**

“Excuse me, Pond?” One of them—a Beta from the class next door—spoke politely.

Pond blinked up at him, confused. “Uh, yeah?”

“We just wanted to say hi,” another one added, smiling warmly.

“You look… really different this semester. It suits you.”

Pond **stared.** He could feel his friends staring too.

That was… oddly **respectful**.

Usually, when people came up to him, it was to throw around a teasing

remark or challenge him to something stupid. But these students weren’t

being annoying. They weren’t being weird.

**They were just being… nice.**

“Um. Thanks?” Pond replied hesitantly, unsure how to react.

The students didn’t overstay their welcome. They simply exchanged a few

pleasantries and left, clearly **impressed**

by him in a way he wasn’t used to.

The moment they were out of earshot, his friends exploded.

**“Oh. My. God.”** Dunk **dramatically** clutched his chest.

“Did you see that? That was, like, pure **admiration.**

I think I almost cried.”

Perth whistled. “You’re not just popular, Pond. You’re becoming a legend.”

Dunk smirked. “Who knew you’d turn into everyone’s **dream partner**?

Damn, if I knew you’d be like this, I would’ve flirted with you ages ago.”

Pond **choked** on his drink. “The hell?!”

His friends **howled with laughter**, enjoying his

flustered reaction way too much.

“You’re gonna have so many admirers,” Jeff added with a smirk.

“Just imagine—everywhere you go, people **worshiping**

the ground you walk on.”

Pond scowled. “Shut up. No one is worshiping anything.”

But… deep down, he couldn’t deny that there was something

**different** about the way people were treating him.

They **respected** him.

They weren’t teasing him. They weren’t **mocking** him

like he feared. If anything… they **admired** him.

It was strange. But… also?

**Not so bad.**

Still, Pond would rather die than admit that out loud.

The classroom was filled with the usual post-lunch drowsiness.

Some students slumped over their desks, while others

whispered among themselves, waiting for the next class to begin.

That was when their homeroom teacher walked in, clapping his hands sharply.

“Alright, everyone, listen up! I’ve got an announcement.”

The air in the room shifted immediately.

“This year’s Sports Day is coming up, and we’ve finalized the team pairings.”

Excitement spread through the class.

Pond leaned back in his chair, his interest piqued. Sports Day.

The one event he actually looked forward to.

The teacher continued, “Unlike previous years, we’re assigning pairs across

all classes. This way, we encourage better cooperation between students.”

Pond froze at that.

Wait—pairs across classes?

That meant…

He sat up, suddenly alert. Joong, who had been resting his chin on his palm,

also narrowed his eyes slightly, as if sensing something was off.

The teacher pointed to the back of the room. “The pairings

have been posted outside. Go take a look.”

That was all it took.

Students rushed to the board, pushing past each other to find their names.

Pond didn’t run, but his heartbeat quickened as he approached

the list. His fingers traced down the names, looking for—

TEAM PAIRINGS

🏆 Joong & Som(Omega, Class 3-B)

🏆 Perth & Phuwin

🏆 Fort & Santa

🏆 Dunk & Boss

🏆 Ta & Jeff

🏆 Pond & Keng (Alpha, Class 3-B)

…Huh?

Pond’s stomach dropped.

Keng? Who the hell was Keng?

Why wasn’t he paired with—?

Before he could even process it, a sharp tch echoed beside him.

Joong had seen the list too.

Pond turned his head, and for a moment, their eyes met—both

of them wearing the exact same frustrated expression.

“What the hell?” Pond muttered under his breath.

Joong didn’t say anything, but the way his jaw tightened

made it clear—he wasn’t happy either.

The name wasn’t completely unfamiliar—he’d

heard it around campus before. But why him?

He should’ve been paired with someone from their group—Fort,

Dunk, even Perth. Hell, he wouldn’t even have minded

being stuck with Ta at this point.

A sharp click of a tongue echoed beside him.

Pond turned just in time to see Joong’s jaw tighten. He was still

staring at the board, his brows slightly furrowed.

Joong was paired with Som.

“Tch.” Joong exhaled sharply through his nose before turning away without a word.

Pond did the same.

Neither of them said anything. But the tension crackling between them was undeniable.

Back in Class

Once everyone returned to their seats, the teacher clapped his hands again.

“Alright. Now that you’ve all seen your partners, I expect you to start

preparing. You’ll be training together for the next two weeks,

so get used to it. Cooperation is the key to winning this year.”

A few groans echoed around the room. Some students looked at their

partners with clear excitement, while others looked less than pleased.

Pond didn’t react. His fingers tapped restlessly against his desk.

The moment class was dismissed, he was out the door.

This was perfect.

Being paired with Keng meant he had an excuse—an excuse to stay out longer,

to avoid returning to the dorm at night, to put distance between himself and Joong.

Joong rolled his shoulders as he walked back toward the dorm building,

sweat clinging to his skin after a round of weight training. His

teammates had already split up to do their own thing, leaving

him to take the quieter path back alone.

The sun had started to set, casting a warm orange glow over the

school grounds. A few students lingered around, either

finishing practice or wasting time before heading in for the evening.

Joong wasn’t paying attention to any of them. His thoughts were

elsewhere—more precisely, on Sports Day preparations.

His team had gotten off to a rough start. Som was competent,

sure, but their coordination was off. Her movements were

different from what Joong was used to. They weren’t syncing the way they should.

It was frustrating.

Sports Day wasn’t just some random event for

him—it was about winning. About proving himself.

And yet, for some reason, his mind kept drifting during practice.

Joong had expected to see him at least once today. Maybe in the halls,

maybe sneaking back in late at night after practice,

acting like he owned the place.

But no sight of him at all?

Something about that didn’t sit right.

Joong’s pace quickened as he entered the dorm building, passing by a

few students. The hallway to his

room was silent, the usual distant chatter

from inside muffled behind closed doors.

When he reached his door, he pushed it open without hesitation—

—only to be met with emptiness.

The room was quiet. Too quiet.

Pond’s side of the room was… different. Too neat. Too empty.

Joong’s eyes swept across the space once, then twice, narrowing slightly.

The blanket on Pond’s bed was untouched, still smoothed over as if

it hadn’t been slept in. The usual mess—his notebooks,

his charger, his damn sneakers always in the way—wasn’t there.

And then Joong noticed the real problem.

A few essential things were missing.

Pond’s bag? Gone.

His water bottle? Gone.

That stupid hoodie he always threw on after practice? Gone.

Joong stood there for a moment, his jaw clenching.

He understood immediately.

Pond had moved out.

Not officially, of course. But practically.

Joong had seen this before—how some students, when paired with certain

teammates, would slowly migrate to their rooms, spending more

and more nights there until it became their unofficial new home.

He just hadn’t expected Pond to do it.

He hadn’t even noticed when it happened.

Tch.

Joong stepped forward, grabbed the back of Pond’s chair,

and turned it sharply—only to be met with more nothingness.

His fingers tightened around the wooden frame.

That bastard.

It wasn’t about missing him. That wasn’t it. Joong didn’t

care where Pond went or who he stayed with.

But to just leave without a word—like Joong wouldn’t notice?

That didn’t sit right.

It didn’t feel satisfying.

After everything? After always butting heads, always testing each

other, always competing to see who could push the other further—

Pond was just going to leave?

Just like that?

Joong exhaled sharply through his nose, letting go of the chair.

Fine.

If Pond wanted to run off, then let him.

But if he thought this was over—if he thought

he could just slip away without consequence—

He was wrong.

After classes ended, the students gathered in the main hall for the Sports

Festival meeting. The event was only two weeks away, and today’s

session was meant to evaluate how well the pairs could work together.

One of the instructors stepped forward, hands behind his

back, scanning the students with a sharp gaze.

“Sports isn’t just about strength,” he began. “It’s about teamwork.

A strong athlete is useless if they can’t match their partner’s

rhythm. Today, we’ll see how well you trust and rely on each other.”

Some students exchanged looks. Others sighed. But everyone

paid attention as the teacher clapped his hands.

“First exercise: Trust Fall.”

A murmur went through the room. A few students chuckled,

thinking it was childish, but the teacher’s sharp

glare shut them up.

“This is a basic test of trust. If you hesitate, you lack

confidence in your partner. If your partner fails to catch you,

they are unreliable. In a real competition, this could

mean losing the match—or worse, an injury.”

Pairs were called to the front, stepping onto a slightly raised

platform. The height wasn’t enough to be dangerous,

but it was enough that hesitation would be obvious.

The Results Were Mixed.

First and Up went first. First crossed his arms and

fell without hesitation. Up, despite rolling his eyes, caught

him perfectly. “Could’ve at least acted nervous,”

he grumbled. First just smirked.

Dunk and Phuwin had the sloppiest but funniest catch.

Dunk almost toppled them both, and Phuwin yelled,

“ARE YOU TRYING TO KILL ME?!”

Perth and Santa? No-nonsense, no hesitation. Their fall and

catch were so perfectly timed that the teacher actually nodded in approval.

Boss and Fort? …They switched partners mid-exercise, leading

to Boss catching Fort instead of Dunk. No one

knew how that happened.

Ta and Jeff? Total disaster. Jeff panicked, stepped back,

and let Ta fall. Ta hit the mat and got up,

glaring daggers. “I AM NEVER RELYING ON YOU AGAIN.”

Now it was Pond’s turn.

Standing beside Keng, he rolled his shoulders, keeping his

expression neutral. Unlike Joong, who naturally exuded

dominance, **Pond didn’t care to impress anyone.**

But the moment he stepped forward, he could feel the eyes on him.

Not just because he looked different now—**more

refined, more attractive.

It was because people were **curious.**

Was Pond—who used to be loud, bold, and always

challenging Joong—really going to **trust an Alpha like Keng?**

Keng, for his part, **was all smiles.**

“Don’t worry, I’ve got you,” he reassured,

standing firmly behind Pond.

Pond barely reacted. He wasn’t nervous. If

anything, he just wanted to get it over with.

Taking a breath, he **let himself fall.**

**But the moment Keng caught him—something felt off.**

Keng’s grip wasn’t just firm. **It lingered.**

One hand **pressed against his

back, holding him just a little too securely.**

**A little too close.**

The hall was filled with murmurs.

Pond, unaware, quickly straightened himself.

“Okay, done.”

He turned to move away, but Keng chuckled, reaching out to **pat his waist.**

“See? I told you I wouldn’t drop you,” Keng said,

his voice smooth, his fingers still slightly

brushing against Pond’s side before he finally let go.

Pond barely noticed.

But **Joong did.**

Joong’s jaw tightened.

**What the hell was Pond doing?**

He wasn’t even pulling away. He wasn’t even **reacting.**

Instead, Pond stood there, completely **oblivious,**

as Keng smiled at him like he had just won some prize.

**Was Pond really that type?**

Did he just enjoy **luring Alphas in?** Letting them **touch him like that?**

Joong wasn’t sure **why** it pissed him.

Chapter Text

As the students left the hall, exhausted but still

chatting about the day’s events, Pond walked with his usual confidence.

Keng was beside him, talking about something, but Pond barely

listened. His mind was still stuck on the earlier

activity—on how Joong had practically put on a whole damn **performance.**

**As if he needed to prove something.**

And the way the others had eaten it up—how

they all stared at Joong like he was some **perfect Alpha.**

It was irritating.

Then, just as they turned a corner toward the dorms, **Pond spotted Joong.**

Walking alone, his broad shoulders relaxed, his expression unreadable.

Their eyes met for a second.

Pond didn’t stop.

Didn’t hesitate.

As he passed by, he muttered, just loud enough for Joong to hear—

**“Show-off.”**

Then, just like that, he was gone.

Joong blinked.

For a moment, he stood frozen, his brain struggling to

**process** what just happened.

**Show-off?**

What the hell did that mean?

His brows furrowed as he turned, about to demand

an explanation—**but Pond was already gone.**

Joong scoffed.

**Tch. Annoying bastard.**

He shook his head and continued toward his room.

But as he lay down that night, the words **wouldn’t leave him.**

**Show-off.**

**Show-off.**

**Show-off.**

It replayed in his mind like an irritating song he couldn’t turn off.

What the hell did Pond mean by that?

Joong knew he had done well today. Hell, better than well—he had **dominated.**

Everyone had seen it. **Everyone had admired him.**

But **Pond.**

Pond, who used to always challenge him—**mocked him instead.**

**Why?**

And worse—**he just left without letting Joong reply.**

That—**that was unacceptable.**

Joong clenched his jaw.

No.

He **wasn’t** going to let Pond get away with that.

Not after throwing those words at him like some careless

insult and then **walking off like Joong didn’t matter.**

That **wasn’t happening.**

Throwing his covers off, Joong sat up.

Then he stood.

And without even thinking, he stormed

out—his feet carrying him toward Keng’s room.

**Toward Pond.**

Inside Keng’s room, the atmosphere was lighthearted.

Pond sat cross-legged on the bed, casually chatting with his

friends on the phone while scrolling through random posts online.

The day had been exhausting, and despite everything,

being here gave him a moment to breathe.

Keng was lying on the upper bunk, seemingly busy with something,

but now and then, he would glance at Pond. His eyes lingered—watching, studying.

Then, after a while, Keng moved.

Pond didn’t notice at first, but then he felt the bed dip slightly.

Looking up, he saw Keng hopping down from the top bunk,

landing softly before walking toward him.

Something in Keng’s expression made Pond pause.

“Keng?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.

Keng didn’t answer right away. Instead, he walked

closer and then **sat beside Pond’s bed.**

Close.

A little too close.

Pond stared at him, confused.

Then Keng spoke.

**“Pond.”**

His voice was lower than usual.

Pond swallowed. **“What?”**

Keng hesitated for a second, then—**“Do you like me?”**

Pond blinked. **What?**

Before he could even react, Keng reached out and **held his hand.**

The touch was firm. Not forceful, but **not gentle either.**

Pond tensed.

“Keng, what—”

**“I like you, Pond.”**

The words hit like a shock to the system.

Pond felt his pulse spike. His fingers twitched in

Keng’s grip, trying to pull away, but—**Keng didn’t let go.**

Instead, his hold tightened.

“Please,” Keng said, his voice almost desperate.

“I like you **very much.**”

Pond’s stomach churned.

The air in the room suddenly felt **too thick.**

Keng’s eyes were locked onto his, filled with something

intense—something that **made Pond uneasy.**

Pond forced a nervous chuckle, shaking his head.

“Keng, don’t joke like that,” he said,

trying to keep it light. “We’re friends.”

But Keng’s face didn’t change.

“I know you like me too,” he insisted.

Pond **froze.**

What?

“No, I don’t,” he said, frowning.

Keng’s grip on his hand **didn’t loosen.**

“If you don’t like me,” Keng pressed, “then

why are you living with me?”

Pond’s lips parted, stunned by the question.

**That was different.** That had nothing to do with—

“I—” Pond started, but Keng **kept going.**

“I know you like me,” he said again. “If you

didn’t, then why did you choose to stay here?”

Pond **hated** how his mind suddenly scrambled for an answer.

Because he had needed an excuse. Because he didn’t want to stay

in the same room as Joong. Because he thought Keng was **safe.**

But now—

Now, Keng was **leaning in.**

Slowly.

Coming **closer.**

Pond’s breath hitched.

His free hand clenched into the sheets beneath him.

He felt his body **tensing, freezing up.**

No.

Something **wasn’t right.**

“I like you,” Pond said quickly, “**but not in that way.**”

Keng’s eyes flickered with something unreadable.

He tilted his head slightly. “Not yet?”

Pond **jerked his hand back.**

This time, **Keng didn’t let go.**

Instead, he leaned in **even more.**

Pond’s heart **pounded.**

No. No, no—

**“Keng, stop—”**

Pond’s pulse **thundered** in his ears.

He had always been good at keeping his cool—throwing quick

remarks, brushing things off, pretending like

nothing fazed him. But this?

This was **different.**

Keng wasn’t stopping.

His grip was **firm, too tight, too sure.** His eyes had

changed—**darker, more intense.** The warm, friendly look

Keng usually had was gone, replaced by something **hungry.**

Something **dangerous.**

**"You don’t know, Pond,”** Keng murmured, his voice

**low and thick** with something unreadable. “How much I’ve held back.”

Pond’s stomach **twisted.**

Held back?

Keng’s grip on his wrist **tightened.**

“Ever since I first saw you…” His voice was almost

a whisper. **“I lost. It was love at first sight.”**

Pond’s breath hitched. **What the hell was he saying?**

His body **went rigid.**

“I want you to realize it, Pond,” Keng continued, his

fingers curling possessively around Pond’s.

“And then… **you came to my room.**”

Pond stiffened.

This wasn’t **normal.**

His instincts screamed at him—**this wasn’t right.**

His chest rose and fell **rapidly.**

He had to stop this. **Now.**

**"Keng—”**

“Please, Pond.”

Keng leaned in.

Closer.

Too close.

His breath ghosted over Pond’s lips, **his face inches away.**

Pond’s blood **ran cold.**

This was wrong. This was **wrong.**

Something **snapped** inside him.

**Without thinking—**

**Pond swung his fist.**

**Hard.**

**Straight into Keng’s face.**

**CRACK.**

Keng **stumbled back.**

The grip on Pond’s wrist loosened just **enough.**

Pond didn’t wait.

Didn’t think.

**He yanked free.**

His body **moved on instinct,** shoving himself off the

bed, feet hitting the ground as he **bolted for the door.**

**But—**

Before his fingers could touch the handle, a **strong force yanked him back.**

**BANG.**

Pond’s back **hit the wooden surface.**

His breath **escaped in a harsh gasp.**

Keng’s hands were **on either side of him.**

Trapping him.

**Caging him in.**

Between **the bed and the door.**

Pond’s heart **slammed against his ribs.**

His hands were caught—**both wrists locked in Keng’s grip.**

Pond **freaked out.**

**This was bad.**

**This was really bad.**

His mind raced. His pulse **pounded.**

“Keng,” his voice **shook.** “Let me go.”

But Keng’s face was unreadable—**eyes dark and unrelenting.**

His breathing was heavy, his fingers tightening

as if afraid Pond would disappear.

“You came here,” Keng murmured, almost like he

was **convincing himself.** “You chose me.”

Pond’s chest **heaved.**

This was a **mistake.**

A **huge** mistake.

And now—

**He was trapped.**

**A sudden, suffocating wave crashed over him.**

**Thick. Heavy. Overpowering.**

Pond’s **lungs clenched.** His body **froze.**

Something in the air **shifted.**

Something **invisible, yet unbearable.**

**Pheromones.**

Keng was **releasing his Alpha pheromones.**

The realization **hit like a sledgehammer.**

Pond’s body **reacted before his mind could process.**

**His knees weakened. His breath shallowed. His head spun.**

**No. No. NO.**

A crushing force **wrapped around his chest** like iron chains,

pressing down, sinking into his muscles, his bones—**weighing

him down, forcing him to kneel, to give in.**

Pond **gritted his teeth.**

**He did not want this.**

His body trembled, his mind **screaming in defiance,**

but his instincts—**his goddamn Omega instincts—**were betraying him.

A sharp heat **coiled in his stomach, making him shudder, making his body feel—**

**No.**

Pond clenched his fists so tight his nails **dug into his palms.**

He could feel it.

The sheer **pressure** of Keng’s pheromones, invading his

senses, forcing their way into his body like an unseen **command.**

Submit.

Pond’s mind **screamed.**

**He wouldn’t.**

He **refused.**

He was **not weak.** He was not some helpless,

trembling thing waiting to be **claimed.**

But his body—

His **traitorous body**—

**Was failing him.**

His **legs wobbled.**

His breath came out **ragged.**

His chest **heaved, struggling for air, for control.**

But his lungs **wouldn’t expand.**

It felt like Keng’s presence was **crawling under

his skin,** drowning him, sinking **inside him.**

Pond **hated it.**

**Hated this.**

**Hated how powerless it made him feel.**

His throat burned. His hands trembled.

He tried to **scream—**

**Nothing came out.**

His voice **failed him.**

A broken, **pathetic whimper** was all he could manage.

**No. No. NO.**

His nails **scraped against the wooden door.**

He needed to **fight.**

He needed to **get out.**

But his arms—his body—**felt so weak.**

He felt **trapped in his own skin.**

**Scared.**

Scared in a way he had **never** felt before.

Pond had fought Joong, had clashed with him countless

times—had taken punches, had thrown them back.

He wasn’t **helpless.** He wasn’t **weak.**

But this—

This **was different.**

Pond’s **breath shuddered.**

The weight of the Alpha pheromones **kept pressing, kept pressing.**

His legs **buckled.**

**No.**

He wouldn’t—

He couldn’t—

Pond’s **vision blurred.**

**Somebody help.**

**Somebody—**

**Joong stood outside Keng’s room, his jaw clenched

as he raised his hand and knocked on the door.**

No answer.

His patience **thinned instantly.**

He wasn’t in the mood for waiting. His head was already

**a mess** from that stupid thing Pond had said earlier—**show-off.**

It kept **looping in his head, over and over, like a goddamn echo.**

What the hell did he even mean by that?

It wasn’t like Joong was trying to show off anything.

**He was just doing the damn activity.**

But of course, **Pond always had something to say.**

Joong scoffed, exhaling sharply through his

nose as he knocked again, **this time harder.**

Still no answer.

His eyes narrowed.

Pond had moved into this room, so he should be here. **Was he ignoring him?**

Tch. Fine.

Joong **gritted his teeth and knocked even louder,

his fist slamming against the wood.**

Nothing.

His temper flared. **This was ridiculous.**

He raised his fist again—

And then—

A sound.

**A small, broken sound.**

Joong stilled.

His sharp Alpha hearing **picked it up clearly.**

A **whimper.**

So soft. So quiet.

His stomach **dropped.**

His instincts **went rigid.**

**What the hell?**

His brows furrowed. That was… that was **Pond’s voice.**

What the fuck?

Joong **stepped closer to the door, straining his ears.**

Another sound. **Even weaker this time.**

Something **wasn’t right.**

Joong’s heart **kicked against his ribs.**

His body **reacted before his mind could process.**

His fists **pounded the door.** “Pond! Open up!”

No response.

Joong **felt something ugly coil in his gut.**

Something **wrong.**

He slammed the door again. “Pond!”

Still nothing.

His breathing **turned shallow.**

A sick, cold feeling crawled up his spine.

His body **flashed hot, then cold, then burning.**

This wasn’t normal.

This wasn’t right.

His instincts **screamed at him.**

**Pond was in danger.**

Joong **stepped back.**

Then—

**BAM!**

With all his strength, Joong **kicked the door open.**

The lock **snapped.** The wood **splintered.**

The door swung open violently, **crashing against the wall.**

Joong’s **eyes landed inside the room—**

And **his breath stopped.**

His whole body **froze.**

The sight in front of him—

**Unforgivable.**

Pond—**trapped.**

**Cornered.**

His back **pressed against the wall.**

His wrists **pinned.**

And Keng—

**Too close.**

**Too fucking close.**

The air inside **reeked of Alpha pheromones.**

Joong’s eyes **darkened.**

His blood **boiled.**

A vicious growl **rumbled in his throat.**

His **rage exploded.**

Fury, raw and unfiltered, **flooded his veins.**

Without thinking—without hesitating—

**Joong moved.**

Chapter Text

Joong’s fists were still clenched, his breath ragged as he took in

the scene before him. Keng lay motionless against the wall, his

head tilted to the side, unconscious from the force of Joong’s attack.

The air was thick with pheromones, the suffocating scent of an Alpha

trying to force submission still clinging to the room like a sickening haze.

But what caught Joong off guard wasn’t Keng.

It was Pond.

Joong had **never** seen Pond like this before.

Pond—the same **loud, cocky bastard** who

always had something to say,

who always glared at him like he wanted to **tear his throat

out with words alone**—was **shaking.**

His entire body **quivered uncontrollably**,

his breaths ragged

and erratic, like someone drowning on dry land.

His skin was **pale**,

**cold**, and **drenched in sweat**—the remnants of Keng’s **oppressive

pheromones** still clinging to him like a suffocating chain.

Joong barely had time to think before Pond **moved.**

**No—clung.**

Pond **grabbed onto him like his life depended on it,** his fingers

twisting desperately into Joong’s shirt. His entire weight **collapsed against

Joong’s chest,** his face **burying itself into Joong’s shoulder.**

He was **shaking so hard**, Joong could feel

each tremor reverberate through his own body.

It wasn’t just fear.

It was **pure, primal terror.**

Joong **froze.**

His entire system short-circuited for a brief second, his

mind struggling to **process the reality

of what was happening.**

**Pond.** His rival. His **loud-mouthed, arrogant**,

pain-in-the-ass rival. The person he spent years

**bickering and fighting with.** **Pond** was **clinging** to him.

Like Joong was the only thing keeping him grounded.

Like he was the only thing keeping him from **falling apart.**

Joong didn't like seeing Pond like this.**

Pond’s body was still **tense**, but Joong could feel the way he was

**unconsciously pressing closer, seeking something, anything,**

that would stop the way his body felt like it was **betraying him.**

Joong **snapped back to his senses.**

He **immediately adjusted his pheromones**, letting them **shift

and settle into something steady, something reassuring.** It was a

**dangerous** thing to do—he knew that. His Alpha pheromones weren’t

meant to be **comforting** to an Omega in distress.

But he wasn’t thinking about the consequences.

**He just needed Pond to stop shaking.**

The reaction was **instant.**

Pond’s **grip tightened**, his entire body **shuddering deeply**

as though he could finally, **finally breathe.** His rapid,

erratic breaths **slowed**, though his fingers remained **

deathly clenched** around Joong’s shirt,

like he was afraid to let go.

Joong **exhaled.**

Without another word, he bent down, slipping an arm under

Pond’s legs and another behind his back.

The moment he **lifted him,** Pond **curled further into him.**

He was still **so tense,** his body still responding to the

aftershocks of whatever the hell Keng had tried to do to him.

**Joong’s jaw clenched.** His anger toward Keng

threatened to surge again, but he shoved it down.

There would be time for **that later,Pond was his first priority.**

Now—

Joong turned and **stormed out of the room,**

not sparing Keng another glance.

Pond had **clung to him so desperately,** so

**instinctively,** that Joong knew—

He was **the only person Pond trusted at this moment.**

And **for once,** Joong wasn’t going to question it.

Joong didn’t stop walking until he reached his own room. He didn’t

care that Pond’s things were now in Keng’s space—Pond

wasn’t going back there. Not after what had just happened.

With firm steps, Joong crossed the threshold and kicked the door

shut behind him. The sound echoed through the quiet room, but Pond

barely reacted. He was still latched onto Joong, trembling, his fingers

twisted into the fabric of Joong’s shirt as if letting go would

send him plummeting into the abyss.

Joong’s muscles were tense with frustration, his blood still hot

from what had just transpired. His mind was racing, but he

forced himself to focus.

He had never seen Pond like this—so shaken,

so vulnerable. It was unsettling. Pond wasn’t small or frail.

He wasn’t

the type to look fragile, even as an Omega. And yet,

right now, he felt so damn breakable.

Joong exhaled slowly, trying to tamp down the residual anger

burning inside him. His instincts were still roaring

for a fight, but Pond was his priority now.

Carefully, he sat on the edge of his bed, still holding

onto Pond, and felt the slight shudder that ran through him.

Joong wasn’t used to this closeness—at least, not with Pond.

They had always been rivals, constantly at each other’s throats.

But tonight, Pond wasn’t looking at him with that usual fire

in his eyes. Instead, he was gripping onto Joong like he was

the only solid thing in a world that had suddenly turned on him.

Joong tried to loosen his hold, but the moment his arms

shifted, Pond clung even tighter. His breathing hitched,

his body stiffening as if Joong was about to disappear.

Joong froze.

For a second, neither of them moved. The only sound

was the faint, uneven rhythm of Pond’s breath against his chest.

“…You’re not letting go?” Joong asked,

his voice quieter than usual.

Pond didn’t answer. He just buried his face into Joong’s

shoulder, fingers still curled against his back.

Joong clenched his jaw, his mind at war with itself.

This

wasn’t normal. This wasn’t their dynamic. Pond was supposed

to be spitting insults at him, not shaking in his arms.

Something in Joong snapped. His hands pressed against Pond’s

back, firm but grounding. If Pond needed to hold on,

then fine. Joong wasn’t going to push him away.

But that didn’t mean he wasn’t demanding answers.

His voice was low, controlled—but there

was an edge to it when he finally spoke.

“…What the hell happened, Pond?”

Still, no response.

Joong narrowed his eyes. “Why the fuck that moron Keng acting like

he ownes you or something?” His grip tightened just slightly.

“You—” He exhaled sharply. “You didn’t agree to any of that, did you?”

Silence.

Pond’s breathing was still uneven, his body tense.

But Joong wasn’t letting this go.

“Talk, Pond.” His voice was quieter now, but there

was no room for argument. “You think I’m gonna let this slide?”

Pond swallowed, but when he finally shifted back slightly,

his eyes were unfocused. His mind was still drowning in the

aftermath of the pheromones, the fear, the

suffocating weight of what had almost happened.

“…Not now,” Pond muttered, voice hoarse.

Joong’s brows furrowed, but he didn’t push further.

Not yet. Pond looked like he was barely keeping himself together.

Joong could feel it—his entire frame was still wound too

tight, his body still reacting to something he couldn’t shake off.

“…Fine.” Joong exhaled, running a hand down his face.

“But we’re not done with this, Pond. You hear me?”

Pond didn’t answer, but his fingers had finally loosened

their grip. Joong took that as the only confirmation he was going to get.

For now.

Joong wasn’t sure how much time had passed since he last spoke,

but the silence was getting unbearable. Pond still hadn’t said

a word, and Joong’s patience was starting to wear thin. He wasn’t

good at this—at dealing with someone who had just been through

something like that. He didn’t know what he was supposed to do.

Pond had finally let go of him, but instead of saying anything,

he had pulled away and curled up on his bed, turning his back to

Joong. A thin curtain hung between them, the flimsy partition

dividing the small space in half.

Joong stared at it, scowling. The fabric was translucent in the dim

light, barely doing anything to block his view. He could see

Pond’s silhouette, his form stiff and unmoving beneath the blanket.

And that annoyed him.

Why wasn’t he saying anything? After everything that had just

happened, after clinging to him like his life depended on

it—why was he suddenly shutting down?

Joong exhaled sharply and ran a hand through his hair.

He told himself he shouldn’t care. Pond was safe now. That

should be the end of it. But something about that trembling

figure beneath the blanket didn’t sit right with him.

His instincts gnawed at him, demanding that he make sure Pond was okay.

Tch. Annoying.

Joong swung his legs off the bed and stood up, moving toward

the curtain. He hesitated for a split second—because what the

hell was he even doing?—but then he gritted his teeth

and pulled the fabric aside.

The sight that greeted him made him pause.

Pond was curled up under the blanket, his back hunched and

his knees drawn up slightly. His body was trembling, small

shudders racking through him as he pressed his face into the pillow.

Joong frowned, his irritation shifting into something else.

“Pond.”

Nothing.

Joong’s jaw tightened.

He moved closer, crouching slightly. He wasn’t sure why,

but something about seeing Pond like this unsettled

him in a way he wasn’t used to.

“…Pond.”

This time, there was movement. A slight shift.

Then, after a long pause, Pond’s voice came, small and hesitant.

“…Joong.”

Joong exhaled. “What?”

Silence stretched between them.

Then, finally, in barely a whisper—

“…Can you be with me?”

Joong froze.

His mind went blank for a second.

Pond still wasn’t looking at him. His voice was quiet,

like he wasn’t even sure if he should say it out loud.

But Joong heard it.

And something about it made his chest tighten.

He stood there, staring at Pond’s shaking form.

Pond wasn’t the type to ask for things. He wasn’t the type

to show weakness, either. Even now, even like this, he had

too much pride to outright beg for comfort.

Joong’s fingers twitched at his side.

A part of him wanted to walk away. To pretend he hadn’t heard it.

But then he noticed something—the way Pond’s hand clutched

the edge of the blanket, gripping it as if bracing for rejection.

That same gnawing feeling from earlier surged up again, crawling under his skin.

Joong inhaled sharply.

“…Tch.”

Before he could think too hard about it, he moved.

His hands reached for the curtain, yanking it aside completely.

The thin fabric crumpled at the edge of the bed,

no longer serving as a barrier between them.

Without giving himself time to hesitate,

Joong pushed his bed against Pond’s.

The sound of the mattress shifting was soft,

but the action itself was final.

Joong sat down heavily, the bed dipping beneath his

weight. He didn’t say anything, and neither did Pond.

As Joong lay beside Pond, the room was quiet except

for the faint sound of their breathing. He wasn’t sure

how long he had been awake, but his mind refused to shut down.

The weight of Pond’s presence beside him was impossible to ignore.

Even though they weren’t touching, the warmth from Pond’s body was

noticeable in the small space between them. It was strange—unnerving,

even—to have his rival so close, willingly, and without hostility.

Joong exhaled slowly, staring at the ceiling. He needed to sleep.

But just as he closed his eyes—

Pond shifted.

At first, it was a small movement—just a slight turn.

But then, he shifted again, this time pressing closer.

Joong stiffened.

What was he—?

Before Joong could react, Pond moved again,

his forehead brushing against Joong’s shoulder.

Joong’s breath hitched.

What the—

Then it happened.

A small, breathy moan slipped past Pond’s lips.

Joong’s body locked up.

His mind blanked.

Did Pond just—?

No.

No, no, no.

He must have misheard.

But then, Pond moved even closer, and this time,

his arm curled slightly around Joong’s side,

gripping his shirt loosely.

Joong’s brain went into overdrive.

What the hell was happening?

Pond—who spent years acting like he hated

him—was now curling into him in his sleep?

Joong swallowed hard, trying to keep his thoughts in check.

He needed to put some space between them.

He started to shift away, carefully, but—

Pond whimpered.

Joong froze.

The sound was small, almost pained, and it

sent an unsettling feeling crawling up his spine.

And then—

The scent hit him.

Joong inhaled sharply, eyes widening.

A scent—sweet, thick, and unmistakable—began to fill the

air, creeping into his senses like a slow-moving tide.

His stomach twisted.

No.

This wasn’t happening.

Not here.

Not now.

Joong turned his head toward Pond, his heart hammering.

The scent was faint but growing stronger by the second,

wrapping around him in a way that made his instincts scream.

His breath came out unsteady.

Was this—?

Was Pond presenting?

Joong’s pulse spiked.

He didn’t have time to think.

If this was what he thought it was, then he had

to get Pond out of here before things got worse.

Tension coiled in his muscles as he

reached out, gripping Pond’s shoulder.

“Pond.” His voice came out low, urgent.

No response.

The scent thickened.

Joong’s breathing grew shallow.

Shit.

This was bad.

He shook Pond’s shoulder slightly. “Pond, wake up.”

This time, there was a reaction.

Pond stirred, his lashes fluttering, but he didn’t fully wake.

His fingers twitched against Joong’s stomach, his

grip on Joong’s shirt tightening instead of letting go.

Joong’s entire body tensed.

His instincts were going haywire.

He clenched his teeth, forcing down the heat rising in his chest.

He needed to stay in control.

Forcing himself to breathe evenly, he

tightened his grip on Pond’s shoulder.

“Pond.” His voice was more forceful this time. “Wake. Up.”

Pond finally stirred, a soft, dazed hum slipping from his lips.

Joong swallowed hard.

He had to get Pond out of here—fast.

Before this turned into something neither of them could take back.

Chapter Text

But before he could move, Pond shifted again—and then, slowly, he opened his eyes.

For a moment, there was nothing but confusion. His lashes fluttered, his gaze hazy,

unfocused, like he was still trapped in a dream. His lips

parted slightly, breathing uneven, his pupils dilated.

Then, slowly, reality settled in.

The change in Pond’s expression was instant.

Confusion. Realization.

Fear.

Pond's breathing stuttered, his fingers curling into the sheets

beneath him. His entire body tensed as the heat suffocating

his mind clashed with his own horror.

“No...”

It was a whisper, barely audible, but Joong heard it clearly.

Pond’s chest rose and fell rapidly, panic setting in. His

hands trembled as he gripped the blanket, his body

instinctively recoiling from the overwhelming wrongness inside him.

“No, no, no—”

His voice was tight, like he couldn't breathe,

like the words were caught in his throat.

Joong could only watch as Pond fought against it—against himself.

Then, Pond tried to move.

Tried to push himself up, tried to run.

But the moment he left the warmth of Joong’s side,

his knees buckled beneath him.

He collapsed, gasping, his body completely betraying him.

Joong caught him instantly, his arms

wrapping around Pond’s shaking frame on instinct.

Pond flinched.

“Let me go.” His voice was raw, strained, but Joong didn’t move.

“You’re presenting.”

Pond went completely still.

His breath hitched, his entire body trembling against Joong’s hold.

It was like saying the words out loud made it real.

Pond sucked in a sharp breath, his fingers

digging into Joong’s wrist as if he wanted

to push him away—but he had no strength left.

“No,” he rasped, shaking his head violently. “No, I’m not. I—”

His voice broke.

Joong exhaled slowly, his own control hanging by a thread.

He could still feel the pull of Pond’s scent,

his Alpha instincts screaming at him, but he forced himself to focus.

“I have to get you out of here,” Joong said, his voice low, steady.

Pond didn’t answer.

He was still shaking.

Still denying.

Still terrified.

Pond was still trembling in Joong’s arms, his breathing uneven,

his fingers gripping Joong’s wrist like a lifeline. His mind was hazy,

body burning, instincts all over the place. He barely had control over

his own movements, but one thing was clear—he hated this.

He hated feeling this way.

Hated being this weak.

And the worst part?

Joong was here. Joong.

His rival. His enemy.

The person who was never supposed to see him like this.

Pond sucked in a sharp breath, his throat dry, his vision swimming.

Then, through the haze, he muttered, “You think you’re my savior now?”

Joong stilled.

Pond’s voice was barely above a whisper, hoarse and strained, but it cut through the air like a blade.

“You think because you broke down a door, because you carried me here, that I’ll be grateful?”

Joong’s grip tightened slightly, his jaw clenching.

“Pond—”

“I don’t need your help.”

Pond’s voice cracked on the last word, but his pride refused to let him take it back.

Joong’s entire expression darkened.

His patience, already stretched thin, snapped.

With a sharp exhale, he let go of Pond, stepping back as his face

twisted into something unreadable. His body was tense, every muscle rigid,

his Alpha instincts demanding he stay, that he protect—but Pond’s words burned like acid in his veins.

Fine.

If Pond didn’t need his help, then Joong wouldn’t force it.

Without another word, he turned on his heel and stormed out of the room.

The hallway was quiet, dimly lit by the emergency lights lining the walls.

Joong’s footsteps echoed against the floor, his body still buzzing with leftover

frustration. His fingers curled into fists at his sides, his mind racing.

That ungrateful—

That stupid, stubborn—

Joong exhaled sharply, trying to steady himself.

He had done the right thing.

Pond didn’t want his help? Fine.

Let him deal with this alone.

Joong’s steps faltered.

Alone.

His stomach twisted.

Pond was still in there, barely able to move, barely

able to breathe, and Joong had just walked out.

His instincts screamed at him.

This wasn’t about pride.

This wasn’t about their rivalry.

Pond was presenting.

And that meant he was vulnerable—whether he wanted to admit it or not.

Joong exhaled sharply, frustration twisting into something else.

He turned on his heel and strode toward the nearest door.

Without hesitation, he knocked—hard.

A few moments later, the door cracked open, revealing a half-asleep student.

“Joong?” The guy blinked, confused.

Joong didn’t waste time.

“Get the medical team. Now.”

The student’s sleepiness vanished instantly.

“What? What happened?”

“Emergency.” Joong’s voice was sharp, leaving no room for questions.

The guy’s eyes widened in alarm.

Without another word, he rushed back inside, fumbling for his phone.

Joong took a step back, his jaw tight, his body still buzzing with adrenaline.

He had to go back.

No matter what Pond had said, no matter how much his pride got in the

way—this wasn’t something Pond could handle alone.

Joong clenched his fists, inhaled deeply—then turned on his heel and went back to Pond’s room.

This time, he wasn’t leaving.

Pond wasn’t sure when his legs gave out.

Everything had been a blur—the moment Joong reached for him,

the moment his strength crumbled, the moment he was pulled into

someone’s warmth instead of hitting the cold, hard floor.

Joong had caught him.

It was humiliating.

His pride wanted him to push Joong away, to prove that he wasn’t weak,

that he didn’t need help. But his body refused to listen. Instead, he

had clung. Instinctively. Desperately. As if letting go meant losing himself completely.

Joong was here.

He lovi.....no he hated it.

He hated that it was Joong, that Joong was the one seeing him like

this, that Joong was the one affecting him so much.

But right now, his body didn’t care about his pride.

His instincts were overwhelming everything else, pushing logic and reason aside.

And if he lost control—

Pond’s throat tightened.

No.

He refused to let that happen.

No matter how much his mind was slipping, no matter how

much his body was betraying him, he would not lose himself completely.

He would not let this turn into something he couldn’t take back.

Joong shifted again, and the warmth of his presence sent

another pulse of something dangerous through Pond’s body.

He clenched his jaw, cursing himself, cursing his body, cursing everything about this moment.

This was Joong.

His rival.

The one person he could never let see him weak.

And yet…

He was already falling apart right in front of him.

Pond swallowed hard, his fists clenching the sheets.

If Joong figured out just how much he affected him—

No.

He wouldn’t let that happen.

Even if his body was betraying him, even if his mind was slipping,

even if the warmth of Joong’s presence made something deep

inside him want to reach out and hold on—

He refused to let Joong see the truth.

But then Joong moved again, and before Pond could stop himself—

He did something he immediately regretted.

And when Joong suddenly pulled away—

The guilt hit him like a punch to the gut.

What the hell did I just do?

His heart pounded.

Panic set in.

His instincts were screaming, his emotions were

all over the place, and now—

Now Joong was leaving.

Pond barely had time to process it before Joong was at the door.

And the moment the door shut behind him—

A wave of nausea crashed over him.

His body curled in on itself, his breathing uneven,

his fingers gripping the sheets so tightly his knuckles turned white.

I screwed up.

And the worst part?

He already felt terrible about it.

Joong didn’t waste another second.

After knocking on his neighbor’s door and relaying the emergency, he *ran* back to his room.

His heartbeat was erratic, his body still tense from the overwhelming scent

filling the air. His instincts screamed at him to go back,

to protect—**to claim**—but he shoved those thoughts down, *hard*.

When he reached the door, he barely had time to process the scene before him.

**Pond was on the floor.**

Curled in on himself, trembling violently. His body was

shaking so hard it looked like he was barely holding himself together.

Joong didn’t think. He just moved.

He was at Pond’s side in an instant, dropping down and

pulling him up before he even realized what he was doing.

The second Pond felt his touch—

He *clung*.

Desperate. Shaking. His arms wrapped tightly around Joong’s

shoulders, fingers digging into the fabric of Joong’s shirt.

And then—

“*Sorry… sorry… sorry…*”

The broken whispers sent a sharp pang through Joong’s chest.

Pond’s voice was barely there, hoarse and breathless like he had been

holding back sobs for hours. His entire body was pressed against Joong’s, trembling uncontrollably.

Joong’s arms instinctively tightened around him.

“Pond,” he said, but his voice came out strained.

Pond only buried himself deeper into Joong’s neck, shaking his head.

His breath was hot against Joong’s skin, uneven and hitched.

“*Sorry… I—I didn’t… mean to…*”

Joong exhaled sharply, trying to steady his own heartbeat.

Pond’s scent was suffocating—raw, uncontrolled, *overwhelming*.

He was scared.

Not just scared—**terrified**.

Joong didn’t know if Pond even realized what was happening to him yet,

but his body clearly did. His instincts had taken over, searching for comfort, safety—**an anchor**.

Joong forced himself to focus, to push away his own instincts screaming at him to act.

Instead, he whispered, “You’re okay.”

Pond only gripped him tighter.

Joong let out a slow breath, grounding himself. His hands ran up

and down Pond’s back, trying to soothe the violent tremors shaking through him.

Then—

**A loud knock.**

The door swung open, and the medical team rushed in.

Joong barely had a moment to process before someone

stepped forward, assessing the situation.

“We need to check him. Now.”

Joong hesitated—just for a second.

But then Pond *whimpered*, body tensing like he didn’t want to let go.

Joong clenched his jaw.

“…I’m right here,” he murmured, just for Pond to hear.

Pond was losing himself.

Every second that passed, his body was slipping further and further out

of his control. The unbearable heat suffocated him from the inside, making his mind foggy, unstable—dangerous.

But more than that—**he was scared**.

Terrified of himself. Of what was happening. Of what he might do if he completely lost control.

When the medical team approached, he barely registered their presence—until a hand reached for him.

*No.*

Pond’s breath hitched, and before he could stop himself, his grip on Joong tightened.

His entire body stiffened, every nerve on high alert as his panic surged.

*Don’t touch me. Don’t touch me. Don’t touch me.*

“*No—!*”

The choked-out plea barely left his lips before his body started trembling harder.

He turned his face into Joong’s neck, his fingers twisting into the fabric

of Joong’s shirt as if his life depended on it.

“*Don’t touch me…*” His voice cracked, thick with something raw, something broken. “*Go away… please…*”

The medics hesitated, glancing at each other in concern.

“He’s panicking,” one of them murmured. “We need to calm him down before—”

They reached out again—

And Pond *snapped*.

“**DON’T TOUCH ME!**”

His entire body lurched in a desperate attempt to move further into Joong’s hold,

burying himself as deep as he could. His heart was racing, his breaths sharp and shallow.

His body was on fire, and he didn’t know if he was trembling from fear or

from the unbearable heat burning through his veins.

Joong was tense, his own breathing uneven as he processed what was happening.

The medical team exchanged uneasy glances.

“What do we do?” one of them whispered. “We can’t sedate him in this condition.

It could make things worse.”

“He’s rejecting physical contact from everyone but—”

Their eyes flickered to Joong.

Joong gritted his teeth, mind racing.

Pond was on the verge of completely breaking down. If they tried

to force him away, it would only send him deeper into panic.

Joong exhaled sharply.

“…Fine.”

The medics looked at him in surprise.

Joong adjusted his grip on Pond, making sure he was secure in his hold.

“Do what you need to do,” Joong said, voice firm.

“Just do it while he’s with me.”

The medical team hesitated—but seeing the way Pond was curled

into Joong, shaking like a leaf, they knew there was no other choice.

“…Alright.”

They moved quickly, setting up what they needed, while

Joong tightened his arms around the trembling Omega in his grasp.

“Pond,” he murmured, keeping his voice as

steady as possible. “I’m not going anywhere.”

Pond didn’t respond—but the way he clung to Joong,

fingers digging into his back, told him he heard it.

Chapter Text

Joong tightened his hold on Pond as the Omega whimpered in pain, his trembling body pressing desperately against him. Panic surged through the room, the medical team exchanging urgent glances, unsure of what to do next.

“His body is going into emergency heat,” one of the medics muttered under his breath, adjusting his gloves.

Pond’s breath hitched as another wave of pain coursed through him, and he let out a soft, broken cry. Joong stiffened. His heart hammered against his ribs—was that really *Pond* making that sound? His rival, the same one who always stood tall, who never backed down from a challenge? Now he was reduced to this—shaking, gripping onto Joong like a lifeline, his scent flooding the room with overwhelming intensity.

Joong clenched his jaw. **The scent.** It was *too much*. It wrapped around his senses like a vice, drowning him, pulling him under. His head spun. He could barely think. **Too sweet. Too tempting. Too dangerous.** He had to—

“Joong!” one of the medics called out, snapping him back to reality. “We need to move him to the emergency heat medical room. He won’t last like this.”

Joong barely had time to register the words before Pond let out another helpless whimper and clung even tighter, his fingers digging into Joong’s shoulders, as if the mere suggestion of being taken away from him was unbearable.

“I—” Joong’s throat was dry. His body was *reacting* in ways he *did not* want. His muscles were tense, his instincts screaming for something he didn’t even want to name.

“Suppressants,” someone barked. Another medic rushed forward with a syringe, quickly jabbing it into Joong’s arm before he could protest. The cold burn of the suppressant shot through his veins, dulling his instincts *just enough* for him to breathe again.

“Damn it,” Joong cursed under his breath. Even with the suppressant, his Alpha instincts were barely being kept in check. If this was hard for him, how the hell was Pond enduring this?

“The suppressant will only hold for a while,” one of the medics warned. “Get him to the heat room *now.*”

Joong didn’t hesitate. He bent down, securing Pond against his chest before lifting him in one swift motion. Pond curled into him, still trembling, his feverish body burning against Joong’s own.

Outside the dorms, other students were beginning to stir, their curiosity piqued by the commotion. But before any of them could step out, the medical staff was already on high alert.

“Nobody leaves their rooms!” one of the senior medics barked. “Unless you want to end up affected by his pheromones, stay inside and shut your doors!”

Joong didn’t spare them a glance. He didn’t have time. He had to get Pond to safety.

With long strides, he carried him toward the emergency medical wing, his grip tightening around the fragile, burning body in his arms.

And through it all, Pond kept his face buried in Joong’s neck, whispering broken apologies between shuddering breaths.

One of the doctors suddenly muttered something under his breath, then turned to his team with urgency. “Wait—his body isn’t producing slick.”

Joong’s brows furrowed. He didn’t understand much about Omega biology, but from the way the medical team reacted, it was clear this was a serious problem.

One of the nurses cursed. “That explains the pain. His body is trying to go through heat, but without slick production, it’s putting him under immense stress.”

Joong tightened his grip on Pond’s hand as the omega whimpered again, fingers digging weakly into Joong’s wrist like he was afraid Joong would disappear if he let go.

“We need to check his condition immediately,” the doctor said, voice tight. “Joong, you have to step outside—”

“No!” Pond’s reaction was instant—his grip on Joong’s hand tightened, his entire body trembling violently. “No, don’t go!” His voice was strained, desperate, filled with something raw and terrified.

Joong stiffened, taken aback. He had never seen Pond like this—so unlike the confident, sharp-tongued rival he knew. His lips parted, but before he could say anything, Pond’s next words came out as a broken whisper.

“Please... Joong, don’t go.”

Joong’s throat tightened.

The medical team exchanged glances. “We need to examine him, but if he won’t let go of Joong, this will be difficult,” one of them muttered.

The lead doctor sighed, rubbing his temples before turning to Joong. “Fine. You don’t have to leave, but *turn around*. Don’t look while we check him.”

Joong exhaled sharply. He didn’t want to make things harder for Pond, but the way Pond was clinging to him, trembling like he was drowning, made it impossible for him to leave.

“…Fine,” Joong muttered. He hesitated for a moment before shifting to sit behind Pond, keeping his grip firm but his eyes carefully averted.

The medical team moved quickly, beginning their examination while Pond whimpered under their touch. Every so often, he flinched or tried to curl in on himself, but Joong tightened his grip on Pond’s shoulders, a silent reassurance that he wasn’t going anywhere.

“It’s okay,” Joong muttered, voice lower than usual. “Just bear with it.”

Pond trembled but didn’t reply. His breath was unsteady, body still tense with pain. Crying in pain.

Joong clenched his jaw, fighting the strange feeling clawing at his chest. He hated this. He hated seeing Pond like this.

And more than anything… he hated that there was nothing he could do to stop it.

Joong knew—on a logical level—that Pond was going to be an Omega. He had known ever since the signs started showing. But knowing and accepting were two different things.

And one thing Joong had *never* been able to accept, no matter how many times his brain told him otherwise, was that *Pond*—his rival, the person he had clashed with for years, the boy who always stood his ground against him—was going to have a *vagina*.

It never sat right with him. It never fit into the image of Pond that had been in his head for years. Every time the thought crossed his mind, he shoved it away, buried it under every rational excuse he could find. *It doesn’t matter.* *It’s none of my business.* *Who cares?*

But now, with a doctor *saying it out loud*, with the reality of it hitting him right in the face, there was nowhere left to run from it.

*"His vaginal development isn’t complete."*

Joong’s entire body tensed. His thoughts jammed up in his head, overlapping, scrambling, twisting into a mess of confusion and something else—something he *refused* to name.

The words felt *wrong*.

Not because they weren’t true.

But because they were *about Pond*.

And somehow, hearing it made it a thousand times worse.

He shouldn’t be thinking about this. Not like *this*. Not when Pond was clinging to him, shaking, crying, *desperate*.

*"His body wasn’t ready, but something triggered the process early."*

*"His slick-producing gland is too small—his body is trying to release it, but it can’t."*

Joong clenched his jaw so hard it hurt.

This wasn’t how it was *supposed* to be. Pond *wasn’t supposed to be like this*.

Pond had *always* been strong. Stubborn. Proud. Someone who never backed down from him, someone who fought him at every turn.

But now—

Now, he was trembling in Joong’s arms, whimpering against his chest, his scent filling the entire room like a drug Joong couldn’t escape from.

And then—

*"J-Joong."*

Joong’s heart slammed against his ribs.

Pond’s voice was weak. *Shaky*.

It wasn’t just the pain—it was fear.

And then—

*"Do something."*

Joong froze.

His entire body went rigid. His mind went blank.

The words echoed in his skull, over and over again, sinking into his bones, shaking something inside of him he *wasn’t ready* to face.

*Do something.*

Pond was *begging him*.

Pond—his rival. His enemy. The one person who had always fought him, always stood against him.

Now, he was *begging* him.

And Joong—

Joong had no idea what the hell he was supposed to do.

His throat tightened. His grip on Pond’s shoulders dug in.

The doctors were still speaking. Someone was saying something—about medical intervention,

about suppressants, about trying to ease the pain.

But Joong’s brain wasn’t working anymore.

All he could hear was Pond’s voice.

All he could feel was Pond’s trembling body against his.

All he could smell was *him*.

And all he knew was one thing—

He *couldn’t* leave him like this.

The medical team exchanged uneasy glances. The air in the emergency heat

room was thick with tension and the overwhelming scent of Pond’s distressed

pheromones. His condition was worsening *by the second*. The usual medical interventions

weren’t an option—suppressants weren’t enough, and artificial slick

stimulants wouldn’t work on an underdeveloped gland.

This wasn’t just a *normal* early presentation. It was a *rare and dangerous case*.

“We don’t have much time,” one of the doctors said, voice grim.

“His body is forcing the process, but it isn’t ready.

If we don’t act soon, he could go into shock.”

Joong tightened his grip on Pond, still caught in the storm of his own

emotions, but those words cut through the haze like a blade.

*Shock?*

“What the hell are you saying?” His voice came out harsher than he intended, but he didn’t care. His patience was *gone*. “Do something then! Isn’t that your damn job?”

The head medic inhaled sharply. “We would if we could,” she snapped back, frustration evident. “But this is beyond what medication can handle.”

Joong felt his stomach drop. His heartbeat was a war drum in his chest.

The doctor exhaled, then finally said the words no one in the room wanted to hear.

“We have to follow emergency protocol for extreme cases like this,” she said, voice heavy with meaning. “An Alpha has to step in.”

Joong’s breath *stopped*.

The entire world seemed to *freeze*.

The meaning behind her words was *clear*.

An Alpha had to step in—*physically*.

There was no other choice. No other way. Pond’s body had gone too far, triggered too early, and now he was *trapped* in a state of agony with no way out. If nothing was done, his body would *shut down from the stress*.

Joong’s head spun. He *hated* how his heart pounded at the implication. He *hated* how the scent in the air was making his own instincts claw at him. He *hated* that Pond was in this situation at all.

But what he hated the most—

Was that the doctors were looking *at him*.

Because *he* was the only Alpha here.

Joong’s body went rigid. His hands trembled at his sides.

No.

There had to be another way.

He *wasn’t* doing this.

Not with *Pond*.

But then—

A small, broken voice shattered his resolve.

“…Joong.”

It was barely more than a whisper, but Joong felt it like a gunshot to his chest.

Pond was shaking uncontrollably, tears sliding down his flushed cheeks, his hands gripping onto Joong’s shirt with weak, desperate fingers.

The sight of him—this proud, stubborn, *infuriating* person—reduced to *this*—

Joong felt something *snap* inside him.

His fists clenched. His jaw locked. His heart was a mess of *anger, panic, denial*.

But there was no more time to think.

No more time to *hesitate*.

Because Pond needed him.

And whether Joong liked it or not—

There was no one else who could do it.

Chapter Text

The moment the medical team stepped out, closing the

door behind them, Joong felt an overwhelming silence settle in the room.

They had left suppressants on the bedside table,

a last precaution in case things spiraled out of control.

But they all knew—there was no perfect solution.

This was the only way.

Joong inhaled sharply, trying to steel himself.

His eyes dropped down, focusing—really seeing—for

the first time since they were locked inside.

Pond’s body was trembling violently, his face contorted in pain.

The scent in the air was thick, suffocating,

clinging to Joong’s skin and pulling at his instincts.

With slow control, Joong let his pheromones spread through the room,

wrapping around Pond like a protective layer.

The reaction was immediate—Pond gasped,

body instinctively curling toward Joong’s warmth.

His fingers slipped upward, gripping Pond’s jaw,

tilting his face up gently. His breath caught.

Pond’s lips were parted, his eyes

heavy-lidded—clouded with something desperate.

And he hadn’t let go of Joong. Not even once.

Even as the door shut, Pond had clutched onto his shirt, his fists tight,

his knuckles white. Joong didn’t need to look at the suppressants.

He knew Pond wouldn’t leave him—not for a second.

What the hell is he supposed to do now?

Then, without any warning, Pond moved.

A sudden, needy whimper escaped his throat as he nuzzled

closer, his lips brushing against the curve of Joong’s neck.

Joong froze.

Then—he felt it.

A wet, tentative lick dragged slowly over his pulse point.

Joong’s entire body seized.

He reacted without thought.

His hand tightened around Pond’s waist, pulling him closer.

And before logic could interfere,

his lips crashed against Pond’s.

The moment they connected, Pond gasped—sharp and breathless—but

Joong didn’t give him a chance to pull away. His grip was firm,

unrelenting, tilting Pond’s head back and taking.

His mouth was hot, soft, frantic.

Joong could feel the way Pond shivered against him, how his

fingers fisted in his arms like he was trying not to fall.

Their lips parted for just a breath—enough for Joong to inhale,

to hear Pond’s shaky exhale—before he dove back in, deeper,

tasting the sweetness of his mouth,

sucking on his lower lip until Pond whimpered.

That sound—high, raw—sent a violent shudder through Joong’s chest.

Pond’s lips parted under him, and Joong took the invitation without

hesitation, his tongue slipping in,

deepening the kiss, claiming every inch.

Pond’s soft, muffled moans filled the thick air between them.

Joong kissed him harder, rougher, pushing until Pond’s spine

pressed into the mattress beneath. He hovered above him,

weight braced on both arms, caging Pond in, sealing them

close until not even air could slip between their skin.

Pond didn’t resist.

If anything—he dragged Joong closer.

Joong finally broke the kiss, chest heaving, forehead

pressed to Pond’s as they breathed each other in.

His fingers curled hard into Pond’s waist.

“…Do something…” Pond gasped.

Joong’s brain short-circuited at the sound.

Then—slowly—Pond guided Joong’s hand lower, placing it over himself.

Joong’s body locked up.

Heat seared his palm even through the thin fabric.

His Alpha instincts roared to the surface before he could push them down.

His fingers twitched.

And without meaning to—he gripped.

Pond’s response was instant.

A sharp, high-pitched moan ripped from his throat as his body arched,

his nails digging into Joong’s shoulders, legs trembling uncontrollably.

The force of the sound—it was too much.

Joong was trembling, his control fraying at the edges.

Pond was pressing against him, the thin medical gown damp with heat.

The soft curve beneath Joong’s hand, the slickness

building there—every nerve in Joong’s body lit up.

His throat went dry. His world narrowed to one thing—Pond.

“Pond,” he managed, but his voice came out hoarse, thick.

Pond didn’t answer—only whined, hips moving in slow, helpless circles.

His hand clutched Joong’s wrist,

tight enough to bruise, but Joong

barely noticed. Pond was grinding his hips up,

seeking friction, crying for relief.

Joong’s instincts screamed. His Alpha knew exactly what to do.

Even if his logical brain was still fighting.

He hesitated.

Just for a moment.

Then Pond whimpered again, head tossing back,

his entire body drawn so tight it looked painful.

That sound—wasn’t just desperate anymore.

It was pain.

Joong couldn’t ignore it.

Swallowing hard, he moved.

He shifted lower, positioning himself between Pond’s

legs. His pulse thundered in his ears.

His hands slid down over Pond’s trembling thighs,

the muscles twitching beneath his palms.

His heart clenched.

For years, Joong had ignored the truth. He had known—deep

down—what being an Omega meant,

but he never allowed

himself to truly acknowledge it.

It didn’t sit right with his logical brain.

He could accept that Pond was an Omega.

He could accept that male Omegas had the ability to bear children.

He cursed himself for thinking like this at this time.

But seeing him like this—suffering—

It tore Joong apart.

Pond was barely conscious, his body wracked with waves of heat too

powerful for him to handle. His breath came in shallow,

uneven pants. His skin burned. His nails were

clawed into the sheets, trying to ground himself through pain.

Joong had never seen him like this.

Not this Pond.

The one who always snapped back. Who smirked in every fight.

Who looked him in the eye like he’d never back down.

Now, Pond was fragile under him.

Clinging to him like he was the only thing keeping him whole.

And for the first time—

Joong felt fear.

Real, gut-deep fear.

This was about Pond.

Joong exhaled shakily, his hands tightening on Pond’s

trembling thighs, helpless against the way his mouth

watered from the scent—raw, ripe, inescapable.

With every breath, he felt his instincts tighten around him like a noose.

Slowly, deliberately, he shifted forward, placing himself between

Pond’s legs. His body moved as if guided by something older

than reason—need, pure and relentless.

The heat radiating off Pond’s skin was unbearable. The way his

legs parted for him, unconsciously, trustingly—it nearly undid Joong.

He hovered there, suspended over the one person

who had always defied him, challenged him, and now—

Now Pond lay beneath him, trembling, waiting, needing.

Chapter Text

Joong's breath caught painfully in his throat as his fingers

Heat poured off Pond’s skin, thick and stifling,

the scent of Omega pheromones

saturating the air. It made Joong’s skin prickle and his head spin.

His fingers hesitated midair, caught between restraint and desire.

Pond lay there, breath hitching in shallow gasps, his hands

fisting the sheets in a futile attempt to ground himself. His body was

trembling—vulnerable, raw, too soft. Too tempting.

Every little twitch of his thighs,

every small arch of his stomach in response to Joong’s breath,

struck him like a bolt of heat straight to the gut.

Joong’s breath caught painfully in his throat as his fingers curled around the hem

of Pond’s medical gown. He lifted it slowly, like peeling back something sacred,

his hand trembling with the weight of what lay beneath.

The fabric slid upward, inch by inch, revealing skin flushed with heat—trembling,

dewy, pink. The dim light painted Pond’s body in shadows and gold, highlighting

every twitch, every soft curve, every telltale sign of arousal

that made Joong’s chest feel too tight to breathe.

The heat radiating off Pond was stifling, a fevered pulse that

wrapped around Joong’s senses. But worse—far worse—was the scent.

Omega.

Raw. Potent. Saturating the air until it clung to Joong’s skin, seeped into his lungs,

and threaded through every heartbeat. It curled around his control like

a noose, each breath pulling it tighter.

He froze, halfway through lifting the gown, hand suspended in midair.

His knuckles ached from how tightly he clutched the fabric.

His other hand flexed at his side, fingers twitching with the desperate need to touch.

His instincts roared at him—take, claim, bite—but he dug his

heels in. He would not move blindly. Not yet.

Pond lay beneath him, chest rising in shallow, broken gasps.

His fingers had knotted in the sheets, his body trembling in ways Joong

couldn’t look away from—so open, so exposed. Every involuntary twitch

of his thighs, every faint arch of his stomach in reaction to

Joong’s closeness made the Alpha in him ache, made him burn.

But still—he didn’t move.

His eyes slid down again.

Pond’s slit had just begun to part—underdeveloped, soft, glistening

faintly. Slick shimmered between the folds like morning dew,

delicate and fragile, catching the low light with every shallow breath he took.

Joong’s chest heaved. His mouth watered. He gritted his teeth.

Don’t.

He squeezed his eyes shut, fighting the wave of need rolling

through him. His entire body was strung tight—coiled like a trap

set to snap. It would be so easy to tip over the edge. So easy to surrender.

But he was trying.

God, he was trying.

The scent didn’t just linger—it invaded. Pond’s pheromones were like

a drug, fogging his mind until thought became effort. Each inhale

left Joong dizzier, drunk on something he couldn’t afford to taste yet.

Then—Pond moved.

His hand, trembling, reached out and gently closed around Joong’s wrist.

The contact was feather-light. Barely pressure at all. But it nearly undid him.

Joong’s eyes opened, locking onto Pond’s face.

His cheeks were flushed, his eyes glassy and wide, lips parted in helpless invitation.

There was no command in his touch—just vulnerability. Trust. Need.

And Joong—just lost in those eyes.

His body shifted before his mind could stop it.

He couldn’t stand to leave Pond like this—hovering in uncertainty,

begging without words.

He moved lower, slowly, painfully. His free hand slid to Pond’s thigh,

fingers splaying across the trembling flesh.

The heat of his skin seared into Joong’s palm.

A shiver ran through Pond’s body, a whimper catching in his throat.

Joong leaned in, his head lowering between Pond’s open legs.

His breath ghosted across flushed skin, and he heard the sharp inhale it drew from Pond.

His lips hovered—just inches from the center of that heat—

but with great restraint, he held back.

He pressed a kiss to the inside of Pond’s thigh. Soft.

Chaste. Almost reverent.

Then another—slower, more lingering. The taste of salt and sweat

and scent bloomed across his mouth, making his stomach tighten.

His tongue flicked out— dragging a slow line over the side of his thigh,

the spot where the scent was strongest. He was teasing himself.

Torturing himself. And maybe that was the point.

Maybe he needed to be punished by this hunger to remember

he was still human. Still Joong.

Pond whimpered again. His hips shifted just slightly,

unconsciously, as though seeking more.

Joong groaned softly. Not from pleasure, but from the agony of restraint.

His hands tightened around Pond’s thighs, holding himself in place like an anchor.

He could feel the slick in the air. Could almost feel the warmth of it so close.

But he didn’t move.

His breath hovered near the slick folds, his mouth a mere breath away.

His instincts surged up again, brutal and impatient,

whispering how easy it would be to just lower his head,

slide his tongue inside, drink in every drop of Pond’s arousal.

But he stayed still.

Barely.

Every muscle in his body trembled from holding back.

His jaw clenched, and his throat ached from breathing through his nose.

He wanted to say something. Anything. But all that came out

It was a shaky exhale that brushed over Pond’s slick entrance like a kiss made of heat.

Pond’s thighs tensed around him, a choked moan escaping his lips.

And Joong closed his eyes.

Because once he gave in, once he truly tasted what his body was begging for—

he doesn't know if he could hold back.

Chapter Text

Suddenly, a cry broke the silence.

“J–Joong…!”

It was high-pitched—thin, breathless, more a sob than a name.

A soft, cracked wail from Pond’s trembling lips that

sliced through the fog in Joong’s head like a blade. Desperate. Raw. And pleading.

Joong’s breath caught. His eyes widened.

That voice—

It was helpless.

And it shattered him.

Joong’s gut twisted. His Alpha instincts roared inside him, demanding

he do something—anything—to ease the unbearable tension in Pond’s body.

But the weight of reality pressed against his mind,

forcing him to move carefully.

His hands gripped Pond’s thighs, firm but steady, spreading them just

a little more. Then, lowering himself between them, he took a

slow breath before pressing his mouth to the

slick-starved heat between Pond’s legs.

The first swipe of Joong’s tongue against Pond’s entrance sent

a violent shudder through the Omega’s body. His back arched,

a sharp, choked cry ripping from his throat as the unexpected

sensation overtook him. His hole clenched tighter for

a moment, resisting, but Joong didn’t pull away.

Joong dragged his tongue over the tiny slit again,

wetter this time, letting his saliva mix with what little

slick Pond’s body was struggling to produce. His lips pressed

against the soft, underdeveloped folds, sucking lightly,

urging the reluctant muscles to relax.

Pond’s breath hitched, his hands twisting into the

sheets beneath him. “A-Ah—! Joong…!”

Joong licked deeper, pressing his tongue against the small

opening, teasing and coaxing. His warm breath fanned over

the fevered skin, and Pond’s thighs tensed

around his head, a clear sign that his body was finally reacting.

Pond let out a strangled gasp, his hips shifting as if

seeking something he didn’t fully understand.

Joong’s grip on Pond’s thighs tightened as he continued,

his tongue flicking over the sensitive flesh, pushing past

the too-small entrance just enough to feel the tightness resisting him.

It was like Pond’s body was fighting itself,

desperate for more but too underdeveloped to handle it.

Pond let out a shaky sob, his body

trembling uncontrollably.

“J-Joong… I—I c-can’t—”

Joong groaned against Pond’s heat, the taste of him—light

and unbearably intoxicating—pushing at the last

fragile threads of his self-control.

He wasn’t sure how much longer he could hold back.

His Alpha instincts screamed at him to push further,

to force Pond’s body to yield completely—but he

knew he had to take it slow.

His fingers flexed against Pond’s flushed thighs.

His mind was blurring, but he forced himself to focus.

Joong flattened his tongue, dragging it firmly over the trembling slit,

his saliva mixing with the tiny hints of slick that

were finally beginning to build. He pressed

a soft kiss there, then another, coaxing, teasing, worshiping.

Pond’s moans turned into breathless, desperate whimpers.

His body still shook, but the resistance was crumbling.

Joong could feel it now—the way the once-tight entrance was loosening,

just slightly, barely enough for his tongue to prod deeper.

The change was small, but it was progress.

He just had to keep going.

Joong’s breath was uneven as he pulled back just enough to

take in the sight before him. His lips tingled, still wet

from where they had been pressed against Pond’s trembling skin.

His Alpha instincts roared, demanding more, but he forced himself

to stay focused. Pond was in pain—this wasn’t just

about instinct, it was about helping him.

Slowly, Joong lowered himself between Pond’s legs,

his fingers gently spreading Pond’s thighs apart.

The sight alone sent a shiver down his spine.

His thighs were flushed, trembling slightly from exhaustion

and the overwhelming sensation coursing through his body.

His entrance was tight, barely parting, slick struggling to form properly.

The scent—sweet and intoxicating—wrapped around Joong’s senses like a drug.

Joong swallowed hard. He had never imagined a moment like this,

had never let his mind wander down this path before,

but now there was no escaping it. He exhaled shakily and leaned in,

letting his warm breath ghost over Pond’s sensitive skin.

Pond jerked. His fingers twisted into the sheets,

a choked noise escaping his throat.

“J-Joong…” His voice wavered, torn between uncertainty and desperation.

Joong knew he had to take this slow. He pressed a

soothing kiss to Pond’s inner thigh before letting his

tongue dart out, wetting the heated skin.

Then, carefully, he moved higher.

Joong’s mouth hovered over Pond’s entrance, the heat drawing him in.

He parted his lips and let his tongue flick out, barely grazing

the sensitive spot. Pond gasped, his back arching slightly,

thighs clenching around Joong’s head. Encouraged, Joong

pressed in more, his tongue moving in slow, deliberate strokes.

The wet warmth of his mouth sent a sharp jolt through Pond’s overstimulated body.

Pond’s reaction was immediate. His hips jolted,

a strained whimper spilling past his lips.

He was so sensitive—every movement sent shivers through him.

“Relax,” Joong murmured against him, his voice rough.

“I need you to relax.”

Pond tried. He really did. But the sensation was

too much, too intense, and his body was still locked up in pain.

Joong pulled back slightly, his fingers brushing over Pond’s

entrance as he reached for the small bottle of lubricant left

by the medical team. His hands were steady,

but inside, his mind was a mess.

He coated his fingers, making sure they were slick enough

before glancing up at Pond’s face. His rival was looking

at him with half-lidded eyes, lips parted as he

tried to steady his breathing.

Joong exhaled sharply, pressing his forehead against

Pond’s thigh for a brief second before finally pushing forward.

Joong’s fingers traced along Pond’s entrance,

feeling the resistance that made his chest tighten with concern.

He pressed gently, rubbing slow circles to ease the tension.

Then, with careful precision, he slid his finger inside,

the warmth and tightness making his breath hitch.

Pond tensed instantly, his body clenching around him,

a sharp gasp escaping his lips.

Pond’s nails dug into the sheets. “Ah—!”

Joong froze. “Breathe,” he murmured,

his free hand stroking Pond’s hip.

“You’re too tight. Let me help.”

Pond’s face burned, but he nodded shakily.

He was already too far gone to protest.

With that, Joong leaned in again, his mouth working to distract Pond

as his finger moved deeper, stretching him slowly,

preparing him for what was to come.

Joong gritted his teeth as he felt Pond clench around his finger,

his body still too tense, still resisting the help being given.

His instincts screamed at him—Pond was in pain,

and his Alpha needed to do something about it.

But his logical mind, already fragile,

was barely holding on.

His scent must’ve been leaking out because Pond let out a shaky breath

and nuzzled against his neck, as if seeking comfort.

Joong exhaled deeply, forcing himself to focus.

Joong let his pheromones spread, filling the room with

his calming scent. The effect was immediate—Pond’s

rigid muscles eased slightly, his desperate grip on Joong’s wrist

loosening as his breathing evened out. But at the same time,

Joong felt his own mind growing foggy, clouded by the

overwhelming scent of Pond’s heat. His body responded instinctively,

his pupils dilating, his heartbeat pounding in his ears.

He couldn’t lose himself. Not now.

With a low growl, Joong adjusted his grip,

his free hand stroking along Pond’s hip, keeping him grounded.

“Pond, you have to let me in,” Joong murmured against his skin.

“I can’t help if you keep tensing up like this.”

Pond whimpered, his face twisting in frustration.

“I—I c-can’t—”

Joong felt a fresh wave of heat against his skin as

Pond’s scent spiked again. It was so sweet, so potent,

wrapping around his senses and dragging him deeper into the haze.

Joong’s hand moved with purpose, his fingers massaging the tight muscles

around Pond’s entrance, coaxing them to relax. He pressed a slow,

open-mouthed kiss to Pond’s hip, then trailed lower, his lips brushing over

the sensitive skin he had already begun to worship. With careful precision,

he flicked his tongue against Pond’s entrance, feeling the slight resistance

still there. Pond jolted, his fingers flying to Joong’s hair,

his body shaking from the stimulation.

A strained moan left Pond’s lips, his thighs trembling

around Joong’s shoulders. He was still too tight,

but Joong could feel the smallest shift,

the way Pond was slowly opening up for him.

Encouraged, Joong pushed his finger in deeper,

feeling the way Pond’s walls resisted before finally giving in.

He curled his finger inside, feeling the heat surround him,

the wetness finally starting to gather where it had been

struggling to form. But it wasn’t enough—Pond needed more.

Joong groaned, the sound vibrating against Pond’s flushed skin as

he added a second finger, gently scissoring them to

help stretch the tight entrance. Pond’s breath hitched,

his body momentarily clenching before melting into the touch.

Pond gasped, his back arching slightly. “J-Joong—”

Joong’s mind was slipping further. His breathing was ragged,

his body reacting against his will.

He could feel his own arousal pressing against his

clothes, the situation turning dangerous far too quickly.

He had to stay in control.

Clenching his jaw, Joong forced himself to focus, pushing

past the thick haze clouding his brain. He reached for the

small bottle of lubricant left by the medics, his hands shaking

slightly as he poured a generous amount onto his fingers.

He needed to be thorough, needed to make sure Pond wasn’t hurting anymore.

Joong coated his fingers properly before slipping them back inside,

the added slick making it easier. The heat was still unbearable,

but now, Pond’s body was accepting him, his muscles loosening

under the touch. Joong moved with slow precision, stretching,

preparing, making sure Pond was ready. His other hand traced

over Pond’s thigh, grounding him, keeping him from spiraling into the pain again.

Pond’s breathing was unsteady, his lips parted as he

tried to hold himself together. His body was finally

starting to respond properly, the sharp pain dulling

into something more manageable.

Joong exhaled in relief. He was helping.

But the way Pond was looking at him—the way his feverish eyes

held something raw, something desperate—Joong

knew this wasn’t over yet.

Not even close.

As Joong worked to loosen Pond further, his fingers moved

steadily, coaxing his body to adjust. But even with the

slickness he had built up, even with the careful stretch,

something wasn’t right. Pond’s body resisted, his walls tightening

instinctively around Joong’s fingers, a clear sign that

it wasn’t enough. That he wasn’t ready.

Pond whimpered, his breath hitching, fingers clinging

desperately to Joong’s wrist as if to both stop him and pull him in closer.

Then, Joong saw it.

A streak of red mixed with the faint traces of slick,

catching the dim light of the room. His entire body tensed,

his instincts screaming at him to stop, to pull away.

But Pond’s voice, fragile and pleading, kept him frozen in place.

“D-Don’t…” Pond gasped, his eyes hazy with heat,

tears beading at the corners. “It hurts,

but—Joong, please… I-I need…”

Joong’s chest tightened, his Alpha instincts battling between

protectiveness and the primal need to continue.

He let his pheromones surge, thick and soothing, trying

to ease Pond’s trembling body. His own mind was growing foggy,

the scent overwhelming him, pulling him deeper into the haze.

Gritting his teeth, he swallowed hard and forced

himself to move with even more care, even as his hands shook

from restraint. He leaned down, pressing his lips against

Pond’s temple, whispering against damp skin.

“I won’t hurt you.” His voice was rough, strained.

“But you have to trust me.”

Pond’s fingers clutched his shirt, a silent answer, a desperate plea.

Joong exhaled, pressing his forehead against Pond’s as he

slowly moved his fingers again, this time with even more patience,

determined to make sure Pond’s body could take him without any more pain.

Everything was a blur. Pond's body felt like it was

burning from the inside out, every nerve ignited in

a confusing mix of pain and something else—something deeper

, more consuming. First, it had been unbearable, sharp

discomfort coursing through him as his body struggled to adjust.

But now… now it was changing.

The pain still lingered, but alongside it, waves

of pleasure crept in, tingling up his spine, making his legs

twitch involuntarily. He gasped, chest heaving, his thighs

trembling around Joong’s hand. His grip on Joong's wrist tightened,

nails digging into his skin as another shiver wracked his body.

Pond didn’t understand it. His mind was slipping,

his thoughts unraveling, logic long fade into a fog he couldn't escape.

He felt empty—desperate—needing something, but he didn’t know what.

Joong’s pheromones surrounded him, thick and intoxicating,

wrapping around his senses like a drug. It was making him worse.

It was making him lose himself. His Omega instincts clawed to

the surface, pushing aside any rationality he had left.

He could feel it happening, feel himself slipping

deeper into that primal state, but he couldn’t stop it.

His lips parted, a soft, needy sound escaping before he could catch it.

His thighs clenched, his body seeking something—someone—anything to

fill the ache inside him. His fingers pulled at Joong, silently

begging, even as his conscious mind screamed at him to stop,

to hold onto what little sanity he had left.

But it was too late.

Pond whimpered, eyes glazed, voice trembling as he pleaded

in a breathless whisper, his body arching into

Joong’s touch. “Joong… please… I-I need…you”

The moment the words left his lips,

he knew—there was no turning back.

Chapter Text

Joong’s entire body went rigid at Pond’s words.

His breath caught in his throat, heart

hammering violently against his ribs.

Had he heard that right?

Pond was trembling beneath him, his face wet with tears,

his body writhing as if every second was unbearable.

His small hands clung desperately to Joong’s wrist,

fingers tightening with each passing moment

that Joong didn’t move.

“Joong… please…” Pond whimpered again, his voice breaking.

“I need you to—”

Panic flooded into Joong's system, clashing violently with the

primal instincts screaming at him to give in.

He wasn’t thinking straight.

His Alpha was clawing at him, demanding to claim,

demanding to take, but his logical mind was barely holding on by a thread.

He wasn’t supposed to—couldn’t—

His eyes flicked down to Pond’s body, trembling, hot,

flushed in a way that made something inside him ache.

The scent was unbearable, thick with desperation,

wrapping around him like an invisible chain, yanking him

closer and closer to the edge.

His fingers twitched against Pond’s heated skin,

and when Pond let out another broken sob,

his entire body jolted, a strangled growl

escaping him before he could stop it.

No. No. He had to stop.

Joong squeezed his eyes shut, forcing himself to think.

The medical team had warned him—don’t go into rut,

don’t claim him. But how the hell was he supposed

to fight it when every inch of him was on fire?

Suppressants.

His gaze darted toward the small vial left by the medical team.

His hands were shaking as he reached for it,

fumbling to uncap it while his entire body was trembling with restraint.

“Joong…” Pond’s voice was a broken whisper,

breath warm against Joong’s neck.

A desperate whimper followed, his body shifting,

pressing closer, rubbing against Joong as if begging

him not to pull away.

Joong’s hands trembled as he pulled the suppressant

vial away from his lips, the bitter taste lingering on his tongue.

His entire body was still burning, instincts raging inside him,

but the suppressant worked fast enough to dull the worst of it.

But Pond—Pond was still in agony.

His body was shuddering violently, his breath coming in quick,

desperate pants. His legs were trembling where they pressed

against Joong’s sides, and his scent—fuck, his scent was still thick,

still pulling at Joong like an invisible leash.

And then Pond whimpered again, shifting, pressing closer,

his hands weakly grasping at Joong’s shirt. “Joong… please…”

His voice was wrecked, barely a whisper, but the desperation in

it sent a sharp pang through Joong’s chest.

Fuck.

Joong couldn’t—wouldn’t—

His mind screamed at him to stop, to pull away before

it was too late, but another sound escaped Pond,

a choked sob as his body arched up, seeking relief.

Joong’s throat went dry.

He had to do something.

Not sex—God, no, he couldn’t even think about that.

The risk was too high. The medical team

had warned him explicitly—if he claimed Pond now,

there would be no turning back. Pond wasn’t thinking clearly,

his Omega instincts had taken over completely,

and Joong—Joong couldn’t take advantage of that.

But there was one thing he could do.

Pond’s body was trembling, lost in the haze of heat and desperation.

His breath came in ragged gasps, tears spilling down his flushed cheeks.

Every nerve in his body screamed for relief,

for something deeper, something to fill

the unbearable emptiness inside him.

His fingers clawed at Joong’s shoulders, his legs twitching restlessly as

unbearable need consumed him. His body ached, his slick still

barely coming through, not enough to ease the raw, pulsing pain deep inside.

Then, in a broken sob, Pond whispered the words

that shattered Joong’s fragile restraint.

“Joong… I need you inside—please—”

Inside.

.

His instincts surged forward, overpowering the logic that had barely

been holding him back. He couldn’t—he wouldn’t—but Pond was crying,

his legs pressing together like he was trying to ease the ache himself,

and Joong lost it.

His hands flew to Pond’s thighs, spreading them apart, his own breath

coming in hot and uneven. His Alpha instincts howled inside him, but

he kept his mind focused on one thing—getting Pond’s body to respond fully,

to force the release of slick so he wouldn’t suffer anymore.

Without another thought, Joong buried his face

again between Pond’s trembling thighs.

His lips latched onto the delicate, underdeveloped sex before him,

his tongue sliding through the swollen folds with desperate intent.

Pond’s thighs jolted, his entire body jerking upward with a strangled scream.

The sudden wet, hot pressure of Joong’s mouth sent shockwaves through him,

his hips twitching involuntarily.

“A-ahh—J-Joong—!” His hands flew to Joong’s hair, weakly pushing but also

pulling, his body torn between wanting to escape and needing more.

Joong’s tongue was relentless, licking, sucking, coaxing the w

eak flow of slick from Pond’s struggling body.

The taste—oh, god, the taste—

Joong’s world tilted.

His grip on reality slipped the moment

the first drop of slick hit his tongue.

It was sweet, impossibly intoxicating,

nothing like he had expected—better,

richer, and so utterly addictive that his instincts took

full control before he could think.

His breath turned ragged, his lips sealing over

Pond’s entrance, sucking hungrily, desperately.

He wanted more. He needed more.

His tongue flicked, probed, coaxing more

of that addictive nectar from Pond’s body.

The more he tasted, the deeper he fell into it, his own arousal

fogging his mind as his Alpha instincts

demanded he drink every last drop.

Pond sobbed, his nails scratching against Joong’s scalp.

“Nngh—d-don’t—s-stop—”

Joong groaned against him, gripping Pond’s thighs tighter,

his mouth working feverishly. He wasn’t wasting a single drop.

Every bit of slick that gushed out, he swallowed greedily,

his tongue pressing deeper, stroking and teasing the sensitive,

underdeveloped opening until—

Pond screamed.

His body arched violently, thighs clamping

around Joong’s head as the dam finally broke.

A rush of slick poured out, hot and overwhelming,

soaking Joong’s lips, his chin, his tongue.

Joong didn’t let a single drop go to waste.

He drank him down like he was starving, his groans vibrating against

Pond’s quivering entrance. His body shuddered at the sheer intensity

of the taste, the feeling of consuming every part of Pond’s release.

Pond’s cries grew weaker, his body going limp, exhaustion overtaking

him as his slick finally gushed freely.

His breathing was erratic, his hands twitching before falling to his sides.

Joong exhaled shakily against Pond’s trembling thighs,

licking his lips, his mind still hazy, still desperate for more.

Even as Pond lay spent beneath him, Joong’s instincts still

clawed at him—because now that he had tasted Pond

, he wasn’t sure he could ever stop wanting more.

Joong let out a sharp breath through gritted teeth.

His hand clenched around the suppressant bottle so tightly he

thought it might break. His other arm was still wrapped around Pond,

holding him close, unwilling to let go even though he knew he should.

His Alpha instincts were screaming.

Take. Mark. Breed.

No—fuck, no.

Joong felt like he was losing his mind. His control was slipping by the second,

his body already moving on its own. His grip tightened on Pond’s waist,

fingers pressing into soft, sweat-dampened skin. He could feel

everything—Pond’s rapid heartbeat, the trembling in his thighs, t

he unbearable heat between his legs.

And then, Pond let out another sound—a needy,

high-pitched plea that sent a violent shudder down Joong’s spine.

His stomach twisted painfully.

He had to move fast before his control snapped completely.

With one last, desperate breath, Joong lifted

the suppressant to his lips and swallowed the remaining.

Joong’s breathing was heavy, ragged, his entire body still trembling

as he pulled away from Pond’s limp form. His lips felt swollen,

slick with the intoxicating taste of Pond’s release, his mind still

hazy with the overwhelming pleasure he had just drawn out of him.

But even now, as Pond’s body sagged against the sheets,

temporarily relieved, Joong knew—this wasn’t over.

Not for him.

His body was still burning, instincts screaming at him to go back,

to take more, to lose himself in the scent and taste of the Omega

beneath him. Even with two full doses of suppressants coursing

through his bloodstream, his Alpha side remained restless,

unsatisfied, clawing at the edges of his logic, demanding more.

Joong swallowed hard, his throat tight as he forced himself to look

down at Pond. His delicate body was finally still, the tremors of pain

momentarily soothed. His chest rose and fell with shallow breaths,

his lashes damp from earlier tears, his lips slightly parted as

if even in unconsciousness, he was still seeking something.

Joong’s gut twisted painfully.

He had done everything he could—had pushed past his own

limits to force Pond’s body into producing enough slick to ease his suffering.

But he knew this was temporary. Pond was still vulnerable,

and soon, his body would start trembling again,

would crave something more.

No. He wouldn’t give him.

The thought of pushing any further made Joong’s stomach churn.

Not because he didn’t want to—god, every cell in his body was

screaming at him to bury himself in Pond’s scent, to sink his teeth

into that soft, fragile skin and mark him forever. But he couldn’t.

He wouldn’t.

The medical team had warned him. No rut. No claiming. No crossing the line.

But what about Pond?

What would happen when he woke up and the need returned full force?

When his body burned again with uncontrollable heat,

when no amount of slick would be enough to satisfy the ache?

Joong gritted his teeth, forcing himself to stand despite his

own legs trembling from the sheer effort of restraining himself.

His body protested the distance immediately, muscles

locking up as if trying to drag him back down.

No.

He had to leave.

He had to report to the medical team, let them know he had successfully

triggered Pond’s release. That his body was stable—for now.

That Joong had done his part and hadn’t lost control.

Yet.

His hands clenched into fists as he forced himself toward the door,

every step a battle against his own instincts.

His jaw was tight, his breathing shallow, his pulse hammering violently in his ears.

The scent was still thick in the air.

Pond’s scent.

Joong exhaled sharply, gritting his teeth as he reached for the door handle.

His fingers trembled against the cool metal, his body still trembling with unresolved tension.

He had to get out.

Before it was too late.

But just as he took a shaky breath, trying to steady himself,

a soft noise came from behind him.

A whimper.

Joong’s entire body locked up.

He turned, pulse slamming against his ribs as his gaze snapped back to Pond.

Pond was shifting, barely conscious, his breath coming out in uneven gasps.

His fingers curled weakly against the sheets, his thighs twitching

slightly as his body fought against the remnants of heat still clinging to him.

Then, in the softest, most broken voice Joong had ever heard—

“Joong…”

His heart stopped.

Pond's lips parted slightly, his brows furrowing as

if searching for something—no, someone.

Joong’s knees nearly buckled.

He had to go.

But how could he?

How could he turn away when Pond was still reaching for him,

still needing him, still calling his name even in his exhausted haze?

Joong's grip on the door tightened, his entire body trembling from restraint.

One more minute.

He’d give him just one more minute.

Then he’d leave.

Before he really lost control.

Chapter Text

Joong barely managed to inform the medic team before forcing himself to leave.

If he stayed a second longer, he would lose himself—he knew it.

His entire body was on edge, muscles coiled tight with unbearable tension.

The moment he stepped into his dorm room, slamming the door shut behind him,

his legs nearly gave out.

His body was *on fire*.

His teeth ached, a deep, pulsing pain spreading through his jaw

from how hard he had been clenching them. His hands

trembled as he dragged them through his sweat-dampened hair,

his skin burning as if it had been seared by Pond’s touch.

The scent—*that intoxicating scent*—still lingered on his clothes,

in his lungs, in his very *being.*

Joong groaned, pressing his forehead against the cool surface of the door.

His suppressants had kept him from completely losing it, but barely.

Even now, his body screamed at him, instincts

roaring for what they had been denied.

*I need to get this out of my system.*

He clenched his fists, breathing heavily.

He knew what he had to do—release,

again and again, until his Alpha instincts calmed.

But even the thought of it made his stomach twist.

Because no matter how many times he tried,

it wouldn’t be enough.

Not when his body wanted something else.

A sharp knock on the door made him snap his head up,

his pulse jumping. He hesitated before forcing himself

to move, yanking it open with more force than necessary.

A medic team member stood there, their expression carefully neutral,

but Joong could see the underlying tension in their posture.

They had expected him to be in *worse* condition.

“We need something from you,” they said, voice steady. “Anything with you

r pheromones. Clothing, a pillow, even a blanket.

Anything that can help stabilize Pond.”

Joong’s chest tightened. His grip on the doorframe turned white-knuckled.

*"My pheromones…"*

Just the thought of Pond wrapped in his scent, breathing it in,

seeking comfort from it—his body reacted violently, heat surging through his veins.

But he *had* to do it. If it helped Pond, if it

stopped his suffering—*there was no choice.*

Wordlessly, Joong turned back into his room, his jaw tight as he

grabbed the closest thing with his scent—the hoodie he had worn earlier.

It was still heavy with his pheromones,

drenched in the remnants of his struggle to hold himself back.

He handed it over without a word, his

fingers lingering for a second too long before pulling away.

The medic nodded. “This will help.”

Joong swallowed hard, watching as they left with it.

His scent—his claim, in a way—was now going straight to Pond.

And *God help him,* he didn’t know how much longer he could take this.

**Days passed, but Pond had yet to return.**

Joong told himself he had done more than enough. He had no reason to think about him,

no reason to feel anything. Yet, his mind betrayed him at every turn.

Every free moment, every quiet second, his thoughts drifted back to *him.*

To the way Pond had looked beneath him, body trembling, lips parted as he

gasped for air. To the heat that had surrounded them,

thick with pheromones that had driven Joong to the edge of insanity.

But more than anything, Joong couldn’t forget the *taste.*

His breath hitched as the memory resurfaced—the first drop of slick

against his tongue, the intoxicating sweetness that had spread through his mouth,

igniting something dark and primal inside him. His jaw clenched,

His hands curling into fists at his sides.

That *nectar.*

He had never tasted anything like it before. It was warm, rich, and maddeningly addictive.

Even now, his mouth watered at the mere thought of it. His body reacted on instinct,

craving more, aching for another taste, another chance to drown in that forbidden flavor.

Joong exhaled sharply, forcing himself to shake off the thought.

No.

This wasn’t right.

He had no reason to want it again. No reason to let his mind wander to

things that should have never happened in the first place.

And yet—

The hunger lingered.

**On the other side, Pond was suffering like hell.**

He barely remembered the past few days—only the unbearable heat that had consumed him,

the way his body had burned and ached for *an Alpha.* His body craved something

instinctively, something he couldn’t fight against, something that no one

else could give him. But no matter how much he called, no matter

How much he *begged* in his fevered haze—his Alpha never came.

Pond curled up, his body weak, trembling as exhaustion pressed down on him like a weight.

His skin was too sensitive, his chest rising and falling in shallow breaths as

if even breathing was a struggle. His throat was raw from crying out,

from calling for *someone* who never answered.

*Why?*

Why was he left alone?

His mind was too foggy to think properly, his Omega instincts overwhelming every rational thought.

Everything hurt—his body, his heart, something deep inside him that screamed

that this wasn’t right. An Alpha was supposed to be there.

An Alpha was supposed to *help* him.

Had he been rejected?

The question clawed at his mind, twisting into something unbearable.

No—no, Joong had helped before. He had been there, had held him,

had touched him in ways that made the heat somewhat bearable.

But now, when Pond had needed him the most, Joong was *gone.*

His body curled in on itself, his fingers weakly gripping the fabric of Joong’s

hoodie—the only thing that had been left for him, drenched in an Alpha’s scent.

The medics had given it to him, and somehow, it had been enough to keep him

from completely losing his mind. Without it,

He didn’t know if he would have made it through at all.

His body still ached, the aftermath of his heat leaving him hollow

and raw. His thoughts were still slow, muddled by instincts and exhaustion.

He didn’t want to think about anything. He *couldn’t* think about anything.

But there was one thing he couldn’t ignore.

He had *only* managed to survive because of Joong’s belongings.

Because of Joong’s pheromones.

And that realization made his chest ache in a way he didn’t understand.

Joong sat on his bed, trying to force his mind to focus on

anything but the lingering tension in his body. It had been days,

but the phantom sensations hadn’t left him—the heat, the scent,

the unbearable need. He clenched his fists, willing himself to push away

the thoughts, to forget *that night.*

Then the door swung open.

Joong turned sharply, expecting a friend, maybe a medic.

But instead, his breath caught in his throat.

**Pond.**

He stood in the doorway, looking utterly drained. His face was pale,

his body visibly weak, exhaustion clinging to every inch of him.

But that wasn’t what made Joong freeze.

Pond was wearing *his* clothes.

The oversized fabric hung off his smaller frame, the sleeves long,

the scent of Joong’s pheromones undoubtedly clinging to it.

It was proof of everything that had happened—proof that

Pond had needed him even after he left.

Joong didn’t even have time to process it before Pond *threw* himself at him.

Joong instinctively caught him, his hands moving on their own.

Pond clung to him tightly, his fingers gripping Joong’s shirt,

his whole body trembling. He buried his face into Joong’s chest,

his scent weaker now but still enough to make Joong’s pulse spike.

Then came the sob.

"Why… why did you leave me?"

Pond’s voice was cracked, thick with emotion.

The way he said it—so broken, so desperate—made Joong’s chest tighten.

His mind stalled.

He had expected a lot of things. But not *this.*

Not Pond breaking down in his arms.

Not Pond *crying for him.*

Joong opened his mouth, but nothing came out.

He just stood there, body stiff, arms still wrapped around Pond. He could

*feel* everything—Pond’s warmth, his shaky breaths, the way his

fingers curled into Joong’s back as if afraid he’d disappear again.

Then, suddenly—Pond *pushed* him away.

Joong's arms dropped to his sides as Pond staggered back.

But what shocked Joong most was *Pond’s expression.*

He wasn’t just embarrassed. He was *shocked.*

As if he *just* realized what he had done.

His wide eyes darted to the floor, his breath uneven,

his fingers gripping the hem of the oversized

shirt—Joong’s shirt—as if grounding himself.

“…Sorry,” he mumbled. His voice was barely above a whisper.

Then, without another word, he turned and rushed toward the

bathroom, slamming the door shut behind him.

Joong remained standing there, his heart pounding in his ears.

His skin still burned from where Pond had touched him,

his scent still lingered in the air.

His mind was blank—completely unable to

process what the hell had just happened.

Pond’s heart was pounding so hard it felt like it would

burst out of his chest. *What the hell did I just do?*

He gripped the sink, his fingers white from the pressure.

His reflection stared back at him in the mirror—his face was flushed, his hair messy,

his eyes still swollen from crying. And worst of all…

*he was still wearing Joong’s clothes.*

A wave of embarrassment and frustration crashed over him.

*What is wrong with me?!*

His hazy mind hadn’t been thinking properly.

That was the only explanation. The moment he saw Joong,

something inside him snapped—his

body moved before his brain could catch up.

He had *lunged* at Joong.

Clung to him. *Cried into his chest like some helpless Omega.*

Pond squeezed his eyes shut, willing the memory away,

but it was burned into his mind. The warmth of Joong’s arms,

the solid press of his body, the scent that made his

chest tighten—he felt *safe* in that moment.

And that realization made him even angrier.

Joong was *not* even his friend.

Joong was his rival, his enemy, the one person he had *never*

wanted to be weak in front of. And yet, here he was—wearing *his* clothes,

covered in *his* scent, falling apart because Joong had *left him behind.*

Pond swallowed hard. *I have to fix this. I have to act normal.

Joong can’t know how much this affected me.*

With a deep breath, he forced himself to calm down, peeling off

the shirt with shaky hands. He was going to walk

out there and pretend none of this ever happened.

Because if he didn’t, he wasn’t sure what would happen next.

Then, voices outside made him freeze.

“Yo, Joong! What’s taking you so long? We’re heading out—let’s go, man!”

Pond pressed himself against the cold tiles, his pulse spiking.

*No, no, no… They can’t know. They can’t see me like this.*

He was still weak, his legs barely able to hold him upright after being

trapped in that unbearable heat. If they found him here—dressed

in *Joong’s* clothes, hiding in *Joong’s* room—it would be humiliating.

His breath hitched as another voice chimed in.

“By the way, where’s your annoying roommate? Haven’t seen him in days.”

A cold wave of dread washed over him. His stomach clenched.

*They noticed.*

He knew his absence wouldn’t go unnoticed for long,

but hearing them question it made him feel like prey backed into a corner.

His hands clenched into fists, every muscle in his body strung tight with tension.

Through the narrow opening of the bathroom door, he could see

Joong standing still, rigid, like a predator poised to strike.

His sharp eyes flickered with something unreadable,

his lips pressed into a thin line.

Another voice joined in. “He got sick or something?”

Joong’s jaw tensed, his knuckles flexing at his sides.

A heavy silence stretched between them before

he finally spoke, his voice cold and clipped.

“He’s fine.”

Pond barely had time to process the relief

before another question came.

“What kind of personal stuff?”

Joong’s eyes darkened.

“None of your damn business.”

The air shifted instantly. The tension thickened.

A scoff. “Damn, man. No need to bite my head off.”

Pond barely heard the rest. His pulse was roaring in his ears,

his entire body rigid with anticipation. Then—finally—the sound

of retreating footsteps. The door creaked open.

Voices faded into the hallway.

The moment the door clicked shut, Pond sagged against the wall,

his lungs finally dragging in shaky breaths.

Safe.

For now.

But the discomfort remained. Not because Joong covered for him—no,

that was expected. Joong wouldn’t want people asking questions.

He was just protecting himself from suspicion, nothing more.

Pond pulled at the fabric of the shirt draped over him, scowling.

He needed to get out of here. Fast.

He didn’t owe Joong anything. And he *refused* to

let himself dwell on this moment any longer.

Chapter Text

Pond stepped out of the bathroom, his expression blank,

but inside, a storm was brewing.

Pond barely had time to take a breath before

Joong’s mocking voice cut through the air.

“Are you seriously walking around in my clothes?”

Joong scoffed, arms crossed as he leaned against the wall.

“Don’t ruin my image, Pond.”

Pond halted, rage flaring. He had been so caught

up in his own emotions that he had completely

forgotten—he was still wearing Joong’s shirt and sweatpants.

Before he could react, Joong continued,

voice laced with something almost taunting.

“And here I thought you’d be quick to return them.

Or what, do you actually like wearing my scent that much?”

That was it. That was the last fucking straw.

Pond whirled around, fists clenched,

and before Joong could blink, he had grabbed him by the collar,

yanking him close. Their faces were inches apart,

Pond’s eyes blazing with fury.

“What the *fuck* did you just say?” Pond hissed, his grip tightening.

Joong didn’t flinch. Didn’t back down.

Instead, he let his lips curl into an infuriating smirk.

“I’m just saying,” Joong murmured, voice deceptively calm,

“you didn’t seem in a hurry to take them off. Maybe you got used to—”

Pond didn’t let him finish.

In one swift motion, he yanked Joong’s shirt over his head,

stripping it off and shoving it hard against Joong’s chest.

“Take your fucking clothes,” Pond snarled,

his bare chest rising and falling with the force of his breaths.

Joong caught the fabric, but his usual sharp retort never came.

His eyes flickered, darkening as they swept over

Pond—his exposed skin still flushed,

his body tense, barely covered by the loose sweatpants.

For a second, neither of them spoke.

Then, just as Pond turned to leave,

Joong’s voice came again, low and unreadable.

“Keep them.”

“I don’t need them anymore,

” Joong said simply. “You touched them.”

The room went silent.

Slowly, Pond turned back to face him,

his expression unreadable, his pulse hammering in his ears.

And then, without thinking, without hesitation—Pond lunged.

This time, when he grabbed Joong, it wasn’t just anger.

It was something raw, something Pond didn’t want to name.

“You’re such a fucking bastard,” he growled, his fingers

curling into Joong’s shirt, his body so

close he could feel the heat radiating from him.

Joong didn’t push him away.

Didn’t move.

His breath was steady, but his hands twitched at

his sides, like he was holding himself back.

Pond hated it.

Hated the way Joong looked at him.

Hated the way his own heart pounded like a war drum in his chest.

So he did the only thing he could.

He let go.

And without another word, he turned on his heel

and walked away, slamming the door behind him.

Pond barely had time to breathe before Joong’s hand caught his wrist,

yanking him back with enough force to make him stumble.

Pond’s fury exploded.

“Let. Me. Go.” He gritted out, twisting his arm in an attempt

to break free. But Joong was stronger—*so much

stronger*—his Alpha strength holding Pond in place like he was nothing.

Joong’s expression darkened, his grip tightening just

enough to make a point. His voice,

when he spoke, was edged with something Pond couldn’t quite place.

“You’re not going anywhere looking like that.”

Pond blinked, momentarily thrown off.

“*The fuck?*” His chest heaved,

frustration bubbling up even hotter.

“Mind your own damn business, Joong.”

But Joong didn’t budge. His eyes swept over Pond’s bare chest,

the faint lingering marks on his skin from his heat,

the way his body still carried traces of vulnerability

despite his glare. His jaw clenched, his next words coming out sharper,

colder—words he probably should’ve kept buried but let slip anyway.

“Or what? Are you planning to walk out like this and *lure* someone in?”

His voice dropped, thick with mockery.

“Are you *that* needy, Pond?

That desperate to get someone to scratch your fucking itch?”

Silence.

Pond’s breath caught, his body going rigid.

For a moment, neither of them moved.

The weight of Joong’s words hung heavy in the air,

sinking into Pond’s skin like ice and fire all at once.

Then—Pond *snapped.*

His free hand flew up, shoving Joong back with every ounce

of force he could muster. Joong barely staggered,

but his grip loosened just enough for Pond to rip himself away.

His chest was rising and falling with unrestrained fury,

his nails digging into his palms.

“You *bastard,*” Pond spat, his voice shaking—not

with weakness, but with sheer rage.

“Is that what you fucking think of me?”

Joong didn’t answer.

Didn’t deny it.

He just stood there, his face unreadable, his body rigid.

Pond’s throat tightened. He wanted to scream,

to rip into Joong until there was nothing left of his

smug arrogance. But he wouldn’t give him the satisfaction.

With one last glare, he turned, fists clenched

so tightly his nails bit into his skin.

“Fuck you, Joong.” His voice was raw, cutting.

“I hate you.”

And this time, when he walked away, Joong didn’t stop him.

Pond stormed out, his fists clenched, his skin still burning

from the encounter with Joong. His mind swirled with rage,

humiliation, and something else—something he didn’t want to name.

He was so caught up in his thoughts that he barely

noticed when someone stepped into his path.

“Pond?”

Pond snapped his head up, locking eyes with Fort.

His friend’s gaze flickered over him, widening

in shock as he took in Pond’s *shirtless* state.

“What the hell are you doing walking around like that?”

Fort asked, stepping closer, his voice laced with concern.

Pond was about to brush him off when he saw it—Fort’s

expression shifted, his nostrils flaring slightly as something

in the air caught his attention.

His body tensed, his brows drawing together in disbelief.

“Wait…” Fort took another sharp breath,

and realization dawned in his eyes. “Pond

. Did you… *present?*”

Pond’s jaw tightened, his shoulders going stiff. He didn’t answer,

didn’t react—just kept his lips pressed into a thin line.

That was enough of a response.

Fort exhaled sharply, glancing around before lowering his voice.

“Come with me.” He didn’t wait for Pond’s

reply before grabbing his arm, steering him toward his dorm.

Once inside, Fort tossed a hoodie in Pond’s direction.

“Put that on before someone else starts asking questions.”

Pond yanked it over his head, finally feeling some semblance

of normalcy now that his skin was covered.

But when he glanced around the room, something odd caught his eye.

The beds.

Instead of being separated like usual,

*both beds were pushed together.*

His brows furrowed, his mind clicking through possibilities.

“What’s with the beds?”

he asked, voice still edged with irritation.

Fort, who had been rummaging through his closet,

barely looked up. “Oh, that? I like Boss.”

Pond blinked.

“…*What?*”

“I like Boss,” Fort repeated casually,

like he was commenting on the weather.

“I pushed them together when he stayed over.”

Pond stared at him. His brain, already fried

from everything that had happened today, s

truggled to process the information.

Finally, he just muttered, “What the actual fuck is happening today?”

and flopped down onto the bed,

burying his face into the pillow.

Fort chuckled. “Rough day?”

Pond groaned into the fabric.

“You have no fucking idea.”

Pond sat on the edge of Fort’s bed, staring blankly at the floor.

His body still ached, exhaustion weighing down on him like a

heavy blanket, but he knew he couldn’t stay here.

The scent of Fort and Boss was everywhere in this room,

mixed together in a way that made his chest tighten.

He didn’t belong here.

Fort, standing nearby with his arms crossed,

eyed him with clear concern.

“You should stay here tonight,”

he said, his tone firm. “You’re still not—”

“I’m fine,” Pond cut in quickly, shaking his head.

He didn’t want to impose, and more than that,

he didn’t want to be caught up in whatever was going on between Fort and Boss.

Fort frowned. “Pond, you just—”

“Fort,” Pond sighed, finally looking up.

“I get it, okay? But I *can’t* stay.

Boss will know something’s off, and I don’t want to explain anything.”

His stomach twisted at the thought.

Boss wasn’t dumb—if Pond stayed here instead of his own dorm,

questions would come. Questions Pond wasn’t ready to answer.

Fort let out a frustrated breath, running a hand through his hair.

“At least let me walk you back.”

Pond hesitated. He didn’t want to cause any more trouble,

but… the thought of walking alone, of possibly running into

*him* again, made his skin prickle.

“…Fine,” he muttered.

Fort nodded, grabbing a hoodie and throwing it

over his shoulders before motioning for Pond

to follow. “Come on. Let’s get you back.”

Pond took one last glance around the room before standing up,

forcing his body to move despite the exhaustion.

As they stepped out into the hallway,

his heart started to beat just a little too fast.

He didn’t know if it was because he was about to face Joong again—

Or because a part of him *wanted* to.

Joong opened the door, his expression shifting the moment he

saw who was standing beside Pond. His sharp gaze

flickered to Fort, and the air between them

instantly thickened with tension.

Pond barely had time to step forward before

Joong’s voice cut through the silence.

“What is *he* doing here?”

His tone was cold, more annoyed than anything else.

Fort, completely unfazed, crossed his arms.

“Relax, I was just walking him back.”

Joong’s grip on the door tightened, his knuckles whitening

as he let out a slow, irritated breath.

His nostrils flared slightly,

his eyes narrowing as if he was already tired of the situation in front of him.

Pond, exhausted and in no mood for an argument, sighed heavily.

“Joong, *don’t.* I just—”

But Joong wasn’t even looking at him. His focus was still locked onto Fort,

as if there was something about his presence

that was bothering him more than he wanted to admit.

“Why do you even care?”

Joong asked, his voice quieter but edged with something unreadable.

Fort raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. “Because he’s my *friend?*

And he didn’t exactly look great earlier,

so I made sure he got back safe.”

Joong scoffed, a low, almost mocking sound.

“What, like he can’t handle himself?”

The way he said it made something prickle under Pond’s skin,

but he didn’t have the patience for this back-and-forth.

“Okay, *enough.*” Pond stepped between them, cutting off whatever

Joong was about to say. “Fort, thanks for walking me back, but I’m *fine* now.”

Fort hesitated, clearly not convinced. His gaze flickered between

Pond and Joong before he let out a sharp exhale.

“Fine.” He turned to leave but paused just long

enough to shoot Joong a pointed look. “Try not to be a *dick* for once.”

Joong didn’t react, simply standing there as Fort disappeared down the hallway.

Pond let out a breath, already turning to go inside—only for Joong

to suddenly grip his wrist, stopping him in place.

Pond’s breath hitched. He turned, startled, but Joong’s face was unreadable,

his fingers tightening around Pond’s wrist with an almost possessive hold.

“You’re just going to let people follow you around now?”

Joong muttered, his tone laced with something almost condescending

. “What, you need someone babysitting you now?”

Pond yanked his wrist free, glaring. “Why do you even *care?*”

His voice was sharp, his patience gone.

“I don’t need your permission for anything.”

Joong’s jaw tensed, but he said nothing.

Pond wasn’t in the mood to try and figure him out.

He pushed past him, brushing against his shoulder

as he stormed inside, leaving Joong standing at the door.

His heart was pounding.

And he *refused* to think about why.

Pond was so exhausted from everything that the moment he lay down,

he fell into a deep, dreamless sleep. His body felt heavy,

his mind foggy, but for once, there were no lingering thoughts—just silence.

The next morning, he woke up earlier than usual, feeling slightly more

rested but still drained. The dorm was quiet, and when he glanced to the side,

Joong was still fast asleep, his breathing slow and steady.

Not wanting to deal with anything yet, Pond quietly got up and went through

his morning routine. As he finished getting dressed,

he glanced back at Joong, who hadn’t moved an inch.

The guy slept like a rock.

With a sigh, Pond decided to make himself some coffee.

The bitter warmth was comforting, grounding him in the present.

He took a slow sip before grabbing his bag and leaving for class,

grateful for a moment of peace.

Meanwhile, Joong was still deep in sleep, completely

unaware of time slipping away—until his phone suddenly blared, jolting him awake.

Groggy and disoriented, he grabbed the phone and mumbled a half-asleep,

“Hello…?”

A high-pitched voice screeched from the other end.

“*Joong! Did you wake up?!

You’re gonna be late for class!*”

Joong’s eyes shot open in pure panic as he recognized Santa’s voice.

“Shit—”

Without even bothering to hang up properly, he threw his phone aside,

jumped out of bed, and bolted straight for the bathroom.

His body moved on autopilot as he rushed through his morning routine,

cursing under his breath.

The morning peace was officially over.

Joong barely made it to class on time, sliding

into his seat just as the professor

began attendance. His friends—Ta, Phuwin, Santa, Boss, and First—watched him with amusement,

Santa dramatically wiping imaginary sweat from his forehead.

“You almost died back there,”

Phuwin teased under his breath.

“Shut up,” Joong muttered, catching his breath.

Class passed uneventfully, and as soon as it ended,

the group headed toward the cafeteria.

The moment they stepped inside,

Joong immediately spotted Pond’s group.

They had already taken one side of the only available table.

Joong hesitated, but before he could even consider walking out,

Santa rushed ahead, throwing himself into a seat.

“Come on, hurry before someone else does!”

With no choice, the rest of them followed,

filling in the seats on the opposite side of Pond’s group.

Joong found himself directly across from Pond.

For a second, their gazes met before both quickly looked away.

There was no outright hostility—just an unspoken acknowledgment

of each other’s presence before they focused on their respective groups.

The cafeteria buzzed with conversation. Joong’s group

talked among themselves, discussing class

schedules and upcoming plans, while Pond’s group did the same.

Then, suddenly, Fort nudged Pond’s tray closer to him.

“Eat properly. You need to get your strength back.”

Pond sighed, but he picked up his spoon. “I *am* eating.”

Joong wasn’t paying attention before, but now his fingers twitched

slightly against his glass,

though he had no reason to react.

“You weren’t in class for days,” Fort added, glancing at him.

“Are you sure you’re okay now?”

“I’m fine,” Pond muttered, keeping his head down.

“*Days* though?” Phuwin chimed in, raising an eyebrow from

Joong’s side of the table.

“Did you catch something serious or what?”

Pond tensed slightly but quickly masked it with a shrug.

“Just needed some rest.”

Joong saw the way Pond’s fingers curled slightly around his spoon.

That slight defensiveness. Like he didn’t want to explain.

Santa, who had been watching the exchange with mild interest,

leaned back in his chair and raised an eyebrow at Joong.

Then, in a voice dripping with amusement, he commented,

“Huh. Didn’t think *you* of all people would have

a roommate who suddenly disappears for days.”

Joong shot him a glare. “Shut up, Santa.”

Santa chuckled but didn’t push further.

Pond, on the other hand, just scoffed.

“Not like he noticed or cared.”

The words weren’t said with any real weight—just a

dismissive remark—but Joong felt a strange irritation bubbling up at that.

“Of course I didn’t,” he replied coolly, leaning back in his chair.

“I enjoyed the peace and quiet.”

Pond clicked his tongue but said nothing, focusing on his food instead.

Fort exhaled, clearly wanting to steer the conversation away

from whatever tension was forming. “Just don’t skip meals,

alright? You’re already running yourself thin.”

Fort's gaze lingered on Pond, and after a pregnant pause,

he casually declared, "You're becoming more charming by the day.

" Pond nearly choked on his drink, the unexpected compliment catching him completely off guard.

He shot Fort an unimpressed look, but his friend just grinned at him,

completely unfazed.

“Seriously, have you looked at yourself lately?”

Fort added with a teasing smirk. “I’m telling you

, if you keep this up, people are gonna start lining up.”

“Shut up,” Pond muttered, turning his attention back to his food—or at least pretending to.

But Fort wasn’t done. Noticing that Pond was still barely eating,

he suddenly reached out, grabbed Pond’s chin,

and forced his mouth open.

“Alright, that’s it. You’re eating,”

Fort declared before shoving a spoonful of rice into Pond’s mouth.

Pond made a muffled noise of protest, glaring at Fort as he chewed.

“*What the hell—*”

“You weren’t eating properly, so I helped,”

Fort said nonchalantly, as if he’d done nothing unusual.

The entire table chuckled at their antics.

Except for Joong.

Joong, who had been silent for the past few minutes,

abruptly stood up. Without a word, he grabbed his tray and walked away.

The shift in atmosphere was instant.

Everyone turned to watch him leave,

confusion flickering across their faces.

Phuwin frowned. “Uh… what was that?”

Santa blinked after Joong, puzzled.

“Did something happen?”

First let out a low whistle. “Damn. He looked *pissed.*”

Boss, who had been quietly observing the entire exchange,

finally spoke. “Maybe he was just in a bad mood?”

“Or maybe he had somewhere to be?” Fort offered,

though even he didn’t sound convinced.

Pond didn’t comment. He simply stared at Joong’s retreating back.

Whatever it was, Joong’s sudden departure had left an odd tension in the air,

and for the rest of lunch, that unspoken question lingered—

*What the hell was that about?*

Joong didn’t return.

Not for the rest of lunch.

And when he finally showed up for afternoon classes,

his mood had darkened considerably.

The entire atmosphere in the lecture hall felt… *off.*

Joong sat in his usual spot, silent and brooding, his presence somehow heavier than usual.

His jaw was tight, his fingers drumming against the desk with a restless energy, and when

someone accidentally bumped into him while passing by, the sharp glare he shot

them was enough to make them apologize immediately.

By the time the next lecture started, the tension in the air was thick enough to suffocate.

Santa, leaning over to whisper to Phuwin,

muttered, “Okay, seriously. What is *his* problem today?”

Phuwin shrugged. “No clue. He’s been weird since lunch.”

First exhaled. “Maybe something happened?

Did he get a bad grade or something?”

Boss shook his head. “That doesn’t usually bother him this much.”

And it was true.

Joong was always competitive, always focused,

but this wasn’t just frustration over academics.

Something no one could quite put their finger on.

And it lasted the entire day.

From one class to the next, Joong barely spoke, barely reacted,

except for the occasional sharp glance or impatient sigh.

The intimidation radiating from him was so strong that

even the professors seemed wary of calling on him.

It was only when the final bell rang, signaling the end of the school day,

that Joong finally stood up, slinging his bag over his shoulder without a word.

His friends exchanged glances, silently debating whether to ask him what was wrong.

But before anyone could, Joong was already gone.

Joong stood under the hot spray of the shower, his head resting against the

cool tiles as water streamed down his tense body.

His mind was a mess. The entire day had felt off,

and he couldn't shake the irritation buzzing under his skin.

It had started at lunch—being forced to sit so close to *them.*

Having Pond and his group right in front of him, talking

and laughing like they owned the place, was unbearable.

And then, there was *Fort.*

Joong clicked his tongue, running a hand through his wet hair in frustration.

It wasn’t like he cared about what Pond and his little group did.

He didn’t even want to be there in the first place, sitting across

from them like they were all one big happy gathering.

The whole thing was suffocating. Uncomfortable.

And Fort—out of everyone—was the most irritating.

Joong couldn't stand the guy. It wasn’t just the fact that

he was loud and cocky—it was the way he carried himself.

That easy confidence, the way he acted like he was untouchable,

like he was somehow *equal* to Joong. Maybe that was it.

Maybe it was because Fort was the only other alpha in their class.

The only one even remotely worth acknowledging.

It made sense, didn’t it?

His competitive instincts had always been strong.

It was only natural that sitting across from another alpha—especially

one as irritating as Fort—would set him on edge.

Maybe that was why he had gotten up and left before lunch was even over.

Joong scowled at the thought, pushing himself off the wall.

It had *nothing* to do with Pond. Nothing at all.

This was just about Fort.

That arrogant bastard.

The knock at the door was sharp, unexpected.

Joong frowned, running a towel through his damp hair before reaching for his bathrobe.

It was late. Too late for anyone to be visiting him without a reason.

Still, he pulled the robe tight around him, tied it off, and stepped toward the door.

When he opened it, Som stood there.

Chapter Text

The knock at the door was sharp, unexpected.

Joong frowned, running a towel through his damp

hair before reaching for his bathrobe.

It was late. Too late for anyone to be visiting him without a reason.

For a second—just a second—his mind flickered to Pond.

But he dismissed the thought immediately.

Pond wouldn’t knock.

He wouldn’t need to.

Because they were roommates.

Pond had a key.

Joong exhaled sharply, pushing down the strange

tightness in his chest. It wasn’t him. It couldn’t be.

Shaking off the thought, he pulled the robe tight

around him, tied it off, and stepped toward the door.

When he opened it, Som stood there.

She hadn’t expected him to look like this—fresh from a shower,

robe hanging loosely around his frame, collarbone still damp.

Her lips parted slightly, but she didn’t say anything.

Didn’t even blink.

Just stood there.

Joong raised a brow. “You lost or something?”

Som snapped out of it, blinking rapidly.

“Ah—no. I just—”

She shifted on her feet, hesitating.

Joong’s eyes narrowed.

He wasn’t stupid. If she had something to say,

she would have said it already. Instead, she was hesitating.

Unusual for her.

She was nervous.

And Joong didn’t like that.

Because if Som was nervous, something was wrong.

Finally, she swallowed and spoke.

“…Can you stay in my room tonight?”

Joong and Som weren’t exactly **friends**,

but they knew each other well enough.

They had been paired as partners for the **sports festival**,

though it never actually happened. Still, during

the training days leading up to it, they had spent

enough time together to develop **a mutual understanding.**

Som wasn’t someone Joong disliked, but he didn’t go out

of his way to talk to her either.

**They weren’t close, but they weren’t strangers.**

There was a certain **ease** in their interactions

—**not warm, not distant, just somewhere in between.**

Which is why her standing at his door, hesitating,

**was unusual.**

Silence.

Joong’s fingers twitched at his side.

He had no problem turning her away if this was some kind of joke.

And she knew that.

So why did she look so… serious?

“…Why?” His voice was sharp, edged with caution.

“I don’t do favors for no reason.”

Som exhaled, crossing her arms.

“I think someone tried to break into my room.”

Joong’s eyes flicked over her—her pulse was steady,

but her scent was slightly off.

Not fear.

But unease.

His shoulders tensed. “Did you see someone?”

“No. But I heard it.”

That gave him pause.

Som wasn’t weak.

If she was worried enough to come here, then it wasn’t just paranoia.

Still—Joong wasn’t easy to convince.

His mind was already trying to poke holes in her excuse.

If she really felt unsafe, why didn’t she just ask the dorm staff to check?

If she was scared, why did she come to him, of all people?

And why did she look so caught off guard when he opened the door?

Something was off.

But Joong didn’t press—because right now?

He didn’t want to stay in his own damn room anyway.

So, without another word, he stepped past Som.

“Fine.”

Som blinked. “Wait—”

“You asked, didn’t you?” Joong didn’t look back. “Lead the way.”

And just like that, he left without a second thought.

Because tonight, he didn’t want to think.

And he sure as hell didn’t want to see Pond.

Joong leaned against the edge of Som’s desk, arms crossed,

watching as she moved around the room. The place was neat,

well-kept, but there was something… off about it.

Too quiet. Too empty.

His eyes flicked to the second bed—untouched.

A presence was missing here. He could feel it.

Som, noticing his gaze, exhaled softly.

“My roommate,” she explained. “She’s been sick for a while.

She had to leave the country for treatment,

so I’ve been staying alone.”

Her tone was neutral, matter-of-fact.

Not quite detached, but not inviting sympathy either.

Joong didn’t say anything at first. He hadn’t known that.

Hadn’t really thought about what her life

was like outside of school.

Not that it mattered.

Still, something about it made sense now. Why she had come to him.

Being alone for weeks… yeah. Even someone like Som,

who always carried herself with calm certainty,

could start feeling uneasy.

But that wasn’t the only thing on his mind.

Joong’s gaze lingered on her for a second longer than usual.

Som was beautiful.

That was a fact. He’d never denied it,

never tried to pretend otherwise.

Even now, standing barefoot in her room,

dressed in an oversized T-shirt,

hair loosely tied back—she looked effortlessly pretty.

It didn’t affect him.

…Right?

Something inside him twisted. A stray thought.

An unwelcome flicker of something he didn’t care to name.

He pushed it aside.

"Guess that explains why you came to me," he muttered.

Som glanced at him, then smiled faintly.

"If you’re asking whether I have other options,

I do. I just don’t trust them as much as you."

Joong huffed, crossing his arms.

"Smart choice."

Som let out a soft laugh, shaking her head.

It didn’t feel awkward between them, but it wasn’t exactly comfortable either.

They weren’t strangers. They weren’t friends.

They were just… somewhere in between.

And for some reason, that unsettled him more than it should have.

They got ready for bed in near silence.

Som had handed him a spare pillow and an extra blanket,

clearly expecting him to take the empty bed.

Joong almost did.

But something about it felt… wrong.

Not Som.

Not the room.

Something else.

Something he couldn’t quite put into words.

Telling him he shouldn’t be here.

Or—not here.

Joong exhaled, trying to shake the strange feeling.

It was just a damn bed. Just sleep.

Why did it feel like a decision?

Before he could stop himself, the words left his mouth.

"You wanna just sleep in the same bed?"

Som’s head snapped up, her entire body going still.

For a second, she just stared.

Joong felt the weight of his own words settle in the air between them.

Why the hell did he say that?

Som blinked, looking genuinely caught off guard.

Her fingers clutched the blanket, and she opened her mouth—then closed it.

Then, to his surprise—her cheeks turned pink.

Not a deep blush. Not dramatic.

Just a hint of color creeping across her face as she quickly glanced away.

"I—I mean, if you want," she said, voice softer than before.

Joong didn’t move, didn’t react. Because something in him was reacting too much already.

And he didn’t like that.

Not one fucking bit.

But he wasn’t about to take it back.

So, without a word, he climbed into bed.

Som settled in first, shifting onto her side,

her back to him.

Joong followed, lying down on his back, staring at the ceiling.

For a moment, that was it.

Then—a strange sort of tension crept into the air.

Not thick. Not overwhelming. Just there.

Joong exhaled, running a hand through his hair.

Maybe it was fine. Maybe this was normal.

Except nothing about this felt normal.

Something still felt off.

Like the weight in his chest shouldn’t be here.

Like his body had expected to be somewhere else tonight.

Like this wasn’t the place he was supposed to be.

He swallowed hard. What the hell was wrong with him tonight?

He wasn’t the kind of person who second-guessed himself.

Wasn’t the kind of person who cared about meaningless things.

So why the hell did he feel like he was waiting for something to happen?

Why did it feel like he had avoided something, rather than chosen this?

Tch. He was overthinking. He didn’t overthink.

Fuck it.

Without really thinking, he moved closer.

One arm reached forward, gripping Som’s waist.

He didn’t pull, didn’t force—but he let

his fingers rest there, feeling the warmth of

her body beneath the thin fabric of her shirt.

Som tensed.

Just for a second.

Then slowly—she relaxed.

"...Joong?"

Her voice was soft, uncertain.

Joong didn’t answer.

Didn’t pull away.

Didn’t give her a chance to turn and look at him.

Instead, he closed the distance.

Not too much. Not enough to make this something it wasn’t.

Just enough to feel her breath hitch,

to feel her pulse quicken beneath his fingertips.

Just enough to confirm that this wasn’t just in his head.

That whatever this was—she felt it too.

Neither of them spoke after that.

Neither of them moved away.

And neither of them questioned why it felt so easy to stay like this.

But even as Joong shut his eyes, even as his body settled,

that wrong feeling still lingered—quiet but impossible.

The room was quiet.

Too quiet.

Joong lay on his side, arm loosely draped around Som’s waist,

his fingers just barely brushing the fabric of her oversized shirt.

He wasn’t thinking—not really.

Or maybe, he was thinking too much.

The warmth of her body against his was familiar but strange.

The way she breathed—**steady, controlled, like she was trying too

hard to act normal—**made something flicker in the back of his mind.

Something sharp. Something restless. Something he couldn’t name.

His grip on her waist tightened—just slightly.

Just enough to feel her tense.

He didn’t move. Didn’t let go. Didn’t break the silence.

And then, in a voice so low it almost didn’t belong to him—

“…Wanna do it?”

A Breath That Gave Her Away

Som’s breath hitched.

Not loud.

Not dramatic.

But he felt it.

The smallest intake of air—sharp, caught in her throat.

His lips were close enough to her ear

that he could feel the way her body reacted.

A shiver.

A stillness.

Then—a hesitation.

Joong didn’t push.

Didn’t say anything else.

Didn’t move.

Just waited.

Chapter Text

The room held silent heaviness.

Joong waited for the answer,

And Som?

She didn’t answer at first.

Not with words.

But then—a quiet, almost imperceptible sound left her lips.

“…Hmm.”

Soft.

Barely there.

But it was enough.

Joong’s grip on her waist tightened slightly, fingers pressing

into her skin through the fabric of her shirt.

She knew what he meant.

He knew she knew.

And still—she didn’t pull away.

Didn’t stop him.

Didn’t say no.

Just stayed right there, caught in the space between choices.

Joong exhaled slowly, his lips brushing against

Som’s ear as he waited—just waited.

For her.

For himself.

For something to tell him why this still didn’t feel like enough.

Joong woke up to warmth.

Soft skin against his, slow and steady breathing, the faint scent of sweat,

sex, and something delicate that still clung to the sheets.

His eyes flickered open, blinking against the morning

light that filtered through the curtains.

Som was still asleep.

Her bare back was half-exposed, the sheets slipping down just enough to

reveal the curve of her shoulder, her skin marked

faintly with evidence of last night.

Joong exhaled slowly, rubbing a hand down his face.

He remembered everything.

The way her hands had gripped his shoulders. The way she had gasped against

his skin. The way they had both agreed—before anything happened—that this wasn’t personal.

Just sex.

Nothing more.

Nothing complicated.

No expectations.

Som had met his gaze last night, expression unreadable,

and simply said, “We both needed it. That’s all.”

And Joong had agreed.

Of course, he had agreed.

So why was he still lying here, staring at her like he was

trying to find something he’d already decided wasn’t there?

Tch.

Shaking the thought away, Joong carefully peeled himself from the sheets.

He moved with practiced silence, slipping out of bed and gathering his clothes.

Som barely stirred, only shifting slightly before settling again.

Good.

No reason to make things awkward.

He dressed quickly, running a hand through

his hair before stepping toward the door.

Time to leave.

Joong stepped into the hallway and made his way back to his room.

He turned the doorknob slowly, pushing the door open as quietly as possible—

Only to pause.

Pond was already awake.

Standing in the kitchen, one hand lazily stirring his coffee, looking

every bit as calm and put-together as if he hadn’t just woken up.

Joong’s expression didn’t change, but something

in his shoulders tensed just slightly.

Of course.

For some reason, he had expected to walk in to an empty room.

But Pond was always up early.

The smell of coffee drifted through the air as Joong stepped toward the

kitchen, making a beeline for the cabinet. He grabbed a glass

and filled it with water, not saying a word.

Not looking.

But Pond was looking at him.

Pond stood in the kitchen, stirring his coffee absentmindedly when the

sound of the door creaking open caught his attention. Without turning around,

he already knew who it was. The air shifted, heavy with an

all-too-familiar scent—one that made Pond scrunch his nose in irritation.

“You seriously couldn’t wait until the weekend?” Pond said,

lifting his mug to his lips. “Or do you just enjoy making the

whole dorm smell like your late-night adventures?”

His tone was casual, but the jab was sharp enough to cut.

Joong, still dressed in his bathrobe, walked into the kitchen and

grabbed a glass. His hair was a mess, and the faintest trace

of red marks peeked from his collarbone. He didn’t look

bothered by Pond’s comment. If anything, there was an air

of satisfaction clinging to him.

“Not my fault you have a sensitive nose,” Joong replied coolly,

filling the glass with water. “You don’t like it? Don’t breathe.”

Pond scoffed, shaking his head. “I’m just saying—try not to turn

the dorm into your personal love hotel. Some of us actually

enjoy living in a place that doesn’t reek of sex perfume.”

Joong smirked over the rim of his glass. “Funny, I don’t remember

you complaining last time someone brought their date over.”

He downed the water in one go, then placed the glass on the

counter with a sharp *clink*. Without another word, he turned

and strolled toward the bathroom, leaving Pond rolling his eyes.

“Unbelievable,” Pond muttered to himself, returning his focus to his coffee.

Whatever. It wasn’t his problem how Joong lived his life—so

long as he didn’t have to smell it every day.

***

By lunchtime, Pond was still feeling mildly annoyed. He walked

toward the cafeteria with Fort, Perth, Dunk, Jeff, and Up,

falling into their usual routine. The chatter among them was easy

and familiar as they grabbed their trays and found their table.

As they sat down, Perth’s attention drifted across the room,

and he let out a low whistle. “Look at Joong,” he said,

nodding toward the other side of the cafeteria.

“He’s already surrounded.”

Pond followed his gaze. Sure enough, Joong was sitting with his group,

but it was the cluster of girls around him that drew attention.

A couple of them leaned in close, their voices sweet and playful

as they vied for his attention. One girl, in particular—tall with

sleek hair and an expensive-looking smile—had her hand resting

lightly on Joong’s shoulder as she laughed at something he said.

“Seriously,” Dunk muttered, shaking his head.

“How does someone like him get all the attention?

I swear he barely even tries.”

“Must be the alpha thing,” Fort shrugged,

leaning back in his chair. “Some people go crazy for that kind of vibe.”

Jeff chuckled quietly. “Or maybe they just like the idea of taming him.

Bet half those girls think they’re special enough to pull it off.”

Up snorted. “Good luck to them.

He doesn’t exactly seem like the type to stick around.”

Pond rolled his eyes and stabbed a piece of his

food with his fork. “Let him have his fun. It’s not like it affects us.”

Perth smirked. “Sounds like someone’s irritated.”

“I’m not irritated,” Pond said flatly.

“I just don’t get what’s so great about him. He’s just—” He waved a hand vaguely

in Joong’s direction. “Joong. What’s the big deal?”

Fort raised an eyebrow. “You’re thinking too much about it.

If he wants to mess around, let him. Not our business.”

Pond huffed and turned his attention back to his food.

Fort was right—he didn’t care what Joong did or how many omegas threw themselves at him.

As long as Joong stayed out of his way, it wasn’t his concern.

Still, the sight of Joong sitting there, surrounded like he owned the place,

left a sour taste in Pond’s mouth. But whatever—he had better things to focus on.

Joong felt irritated—again. It was becoming a constant state lately,

this gnawing frustration simmering under his skin.

Every little thing seemed to set him off. The way people talked,

the way they looked at him, even the sound of footsteps echoing in the

hallway felt like a personal insult.

And that smug look on Fort’s face earlier? It made his hands itch to throw a punch.

“This stupid alpha instinct,” Joong muttered under his breath

as he pushed open the dorm room door. “It’s driving me crazy.”

He tossed his bag on the floor, already pulling his shirt over his head.

His whole body felt tense, the lingering frustration from the day

refusing to fade. Without a second thought, he headed

straight for the bathroom, slamming the door shut behind him.

Stripping down, he stepped into the shower and turned the water

to cold, hoping the chill would snap him out of whatever this was.

It didn’t. If anything, it only heightened the ache crawling under

his skin. His breath came out heavy, and no amount of

cold water could cool the heat building in his gut.

“Shit,” he hissed, leaning one hand against the shower wall

as his other hand drifted lower, trying to ease the pressure.

His body reacted immediately, too eager, too desperate to release the tension.

Joong’s hand wrapped around his length, his grip tight and unforgiving.

Each stroke was rough, almost angry, as if he could force the

irritation out of his system. His muscles tensed with every

sharp motion, breath quickening. The water cascaded down his back,

but it did nothing to drown out the sound of his quiet,

ragged groans as his release built quickly, too quickly.

When he finally came, his whole body shuddered, and for a

fleeting moment, the frustration faded—but not completely.

He exhaled harshly, letting the water wash away the evidence of

his release. For a second, it felt better—lighter—but then the irritation

crept back in. Why the hell was he like this? Why couldn’t he just turn it off?

Wrapping a towel around his waist, Joong stepped out of the bathroom,

running a hand through his damp hair.

He didn’t even notice Pond was there—his bed was hidden

behind the heavy curtain that divided the room. That curtain irritated him too.

Why did Pond need to section off his space like he was royalty or something?

Joong was already moving toward his side of the room when Pond’s voice cut through the air.

“You done blowing off steam, or should I come back later?”

Joong froze mid-step, irritation flaring hot again.

He clenched his jaw and turned toward the curtain.

Joong yanked the curtain aside, his movements rough and impatient,

stepping into Pond’s space without so much as a warning. The sudden

intrusion made Pond’s fingers pause on the edge of the book he had been

reading—a thick, leather-bound novel resting lightly in his lap. He didn’t

flinch, though. Instead, he flipped a page slowly, letting the quiet stretch between them.

But he noticed.

He noticed the way Joong stood there, hovering just past the curtain line.
Not speaking. Not moving. Just staring—long enough for it to feel heavy,

like the weight of his presence had sunk into the air.

Pond’s eyebrows twitched slightly. Normally, Joong would’ve already

spat out some snide remark. Something like, *“You still pretending to

be a genius, bookworm?”*—sharp words meant to jab at him.

But nothing came. The silence felt out of place, too charged, too focused.

Still pretending not to care, Pond leaned back against his pillow,

shifting the book higher in his hands as if Joong’s sudden appearance

didn’t bother him at all. But his senses were on high alert.

He could feel it—Joong’s gaze dragging over him.

Hot, sharp, and intense in a way that sent a

faint shiver crawling up his spine.

And yet, nothing. No words. No insults. Just that…look.

*What the hell is he staring at?*

He turned another page. Deliberately slow. Still nothing.

Annoyance prickled under his skin. Fine.

If Joong wasn’t going to speak, Pond would.

Without lifting his eyes from the book, he drawled lazily,

“What? Got lost on your way to your own bed? Or did you decide

to become a creep now?” His voice was light—mocking—but there was a hard edge underneath.

He expected a reaction. Some snarky comeback. Maybe a scoff.

But when he finally looked up, his stomach twisted unexpectedly.

Joong wasn’t smirking. He wasn’t irritated.

No—his expression was colder. Tighter.

His jaw clenched like he was barely holding something back,

his chest rising and falling with a restrained sort of tension.

There was no playful arrogance. What Pond saw instead was…raw. Heavy.

And that was new.

A chill ran through Pond’s veins despite himself.

Whatever was simmering behind Joong’s eyes—whatever he was thinking—felt dangerous.

Still, Pond refused to back down. He raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a faint,

defiant smirk. “What?” he pressed, tilting his head slightly. “Cat got your tongue?”

For a beat, Joong just stood there. His fingers twitched at his sides,

balled slightly into fists—like he was holding something back. Something close to boiling over.

And then, without a word, he turned on his heel.

The curtain swayed violently as he shoved it aside,

retreating to his own bed with quick, forceful steps.

Pond heard the sound of Joong’s mattress creaking faintly as he sat down,

but the atmosphere remained thick and heavy—almost suffocating.

Pond blinked, his heart still thudding a little too hard in his chest.

He lowered his book slightly, glancing toward the closed curtain between them.

*What the hell was that?*

For once, he didn’t have an answer. Something about the way

Joong had looked at him—fierce and quiet and…furious—unsettled him.

It wasn’t his usual temper. It was something else entirely.

Something Pond didn’t understand.

Tch. Whatever.

Shaking his head, he flicked the curtain back into place,

blocking Joong from view. As if that would shake off the

strange tension still clinging to the air.

“Freak,” he muttered under his breath, but the word felt hollow—because,

no matter how hard he tried to brush it off,

the memory of Joong’s burning gaze wouldn’t leave him alone.

The room was quiet—too quiet—until a faint noise broke the silence.

Pond’s eyes fluttered open, disoriented by the darkness around him.

His mind, still heavy with sleep, tried to place the sound.

A soft rustle. Sheets shifting. The faintest hitch of breath. He blinked

against the dim light leaking through the edges of the curtain,

and that’s when he noticed it—Joong.

Or rather, the lack of stillness from Joong’s side of the room.

Pond narrowed his eyes, letting them adjust to the shadows.

Joong wasn’t asleep. He was moving—restless.

Tossing and turning like something under his skin wouldn’t let him settle.

*What’s his problem now?*

For a moment, Pond considered ignoring it. It wasn’t like he cared

if Joong couldn’t sleep. But curiosity gnawed at him,

especially when Joong shifted again, his breathing uneven—too quick.

This wasn’t his usual grumpy tossing around. Something was different.

And if there was one thing Pond couldn’t resist, it was poking at whatever got under Joong’s skin.

"What's wrong?" Pond’s voice cut through the dark,

smooth and mocking. "You forget how to sleep, or are you too busy thinking about your next conquest?"

Usually, that would earn him a glare, a scoff—something.

But nothing came. No snappy comeback. No annoyed grunt. Just silence.

That was…odd.

Pond frowned.

He shifted slightly, fingers curling into the edge of the curtain.

The logical thing would be to roll over and go back to sleep. But something about

the silence—about the way Joong wasn’t reacting—itched at him. Before

he could think better of it, he quietly slid the curtain aside.

Just enough to see through the gap.

His breath caught slightly.

Joong was lying on his back, one arm flung carelessly over his forehead.

His jaw was tight, lips slightly parted as he stared blankly at the ceiling.

There was something wrong in the way his chest rose and fell—a tension that hadn’t been there before.

Pond watched, confused. Was he sick? No, that didn’t make

sense—Joong was practically indestructible. And it wasn’t anger either.

No sharp glares or cutting words. Just…quiet frustration curling around him like a storm he couldn’t escape.

*What the hell is going on with him?*

Without realizing it, Pond’s scent began to shift—soft and subtle,

a natural reaction he didn’t bother to suppress. Sweet hints of

something warm and calming laced the air. He hadn’t meant to release his pheromones,

but the strange restlessness coming from Joong pricked at

something instinctive in him—something he didn’t want to name.

The moment his scent reached Joong’s side of the room, everything changed.

Joong’s body stiffened instantly, muscles locking as if he’d been struck.

His fingers twitched against the sheets, breath catching sharply in his throat.

For a beat, he didn’t move—but Pond could

feel* the shift in the air, thickening with tension.

And then, without a word, Joong abruptly sat up.

The sudden movement startled Pond, but he didn’t let it show.

He watched as Joong swung his legs over the bed, his posture rigid—too controlled.

Something was off. The way his shoulders trembled faintly.

The way his breathing, though quiet, seemed strained.

Before Pond could open his mouth, Joong was already moving.

He grabbed his jacket from the chair and stalked toward the door.

His footsteps were heavy, deliberate. Like he needed to get out. Now.

Pond tilted his head slightly, lips parting to say something—something sharp,

no doubt—but the words caught in his throat.

Because for a split second, just before Joong

disappeared into the hallway, Pond saw his face.

His expression wasn’t angry. It wasn’t smug or irritated like usual.

No, Joong looked…desperate.

And that—that was something Pond didn’t know how to handle.

Before Joong could touch the door handle, Pond moved—fast.

He darted across the room and planted himself squarely between

Joong and the exit, blocking the way with his body.

Joong froze mid-step, his jaw clenching as his blood boiled with

frustration. He lifted his gaze, and when his eyes met Pond’s,

there was nothing but raw anger simmering beneath the surface.

His lips curled slightly, voice low and dangerously quiet.

“Move,” Joong ordered.

Pond, being Pond, didn’t flinch. Instead, he crossed his arms over his chest,

leaning against the door like he had all the time in the world.

“Where are you going at this hour?” His tone was light,

almost playful, but there was an edge to it—an edge Joong wasn’t in the mood for.

Joong’s teeth ground together. “It’s none of your business.”

“Of course, it’s my business.” Pond

tilted his head, flashing a smile that didn’t

quite reach his eyes. “You’re my roommate, and if you try sneaking out in the

middle of the night, I’ll report you to the teachers.

Then you can explain why you’re breaking dorm rules.”

For a second, Joong didn’t move—his entire body vibrating with suppressed tension.

The muscles in his neck strained as if he was barely holding himself back.

Whatever patience he had left was hanging

by a thread, and Pond was pulling it taut.

And then—snap.

In a blur of movement, Joong lunged forward.

His hand slammed against the door next to Pond’s head, caging him in with his body.

His other hand gripped Pond’s waist, holding him in place with a bruising intensity.

The air grew thick—charged with something dangerous as Joong

leaned in closer, his breath warm against Pond’s skin.

His voice, when he spoke, was low—rough and edged with a threat.

“If you don’t want any problems,” Joong murmured, “you’ll let me go. Right now.”

Pond’s heart stuttered for a beat. His back pressed against the

cold wood of the door, but the heat from Joong’s body made it hard to think straight.

Joong’s scent—raw and sharp—flooded the air between them, stronger than usual.

And the look in Joong’s eyes? It was wild.

Untamed. Like he was barely restraining himself from doing something reckless.

For once, Pond didn’t have a quick comeback. His throat felt dry as

Joong’s grip on his waist tightened, fingers digging in just enough to make him squirm.

“I’m serious,” Joong warned, his voice a dangerous growl.

“Let. Me. Go. Or you’ll regret it.”

Pond swallowed hard, but the defiance in his gaze didn’t waver.

“And if I don’t?” he challenged quietly.

Joong leaned in closer—so close their noses nearly brushed—his teeth bared

in a sharp, humorless smile.

"Then don’t blame me if I stop being nice."

Joong’s lips twisted into a cruel smirk as he leaned even closer,

his breath ghosting against Pond’s skin. "Let me tell you something,"

he murmured, his voice thick with frustration. "I’m going to Som’s room—"

He paused deliberately, watching Pond’s throat bob with a hard swallow.

"But now… you don’t want me to go? Then you’ll have to do the work she was supposed to."

The words hung heavy in the air, thick and charged,
sinking into Pond’s ears like a shockwave.

His breath hitched involuntarily, and he stiffened against the door.

For a brief moment, his mind couldn’t process Joong’s words—couldn’t

believe what he was hearing—but then it clicked.

His brain began connecting the dots.

The scent—strong and overpowering—wasn’t Joong’s usual one.

This was different. Heavier. Darker. It clung to the air between them,

filling Pond’s lungs with every shallow breath. There was frustration laced

in it—anger simmering just beneath the surface—but more than that,

there was *lust*. A sharp, undeniable craving that made Pond’s

instincts scream at him to run.

His eyes widened in realization. "You—"

His voice faltered as panic crept into his veins.

"Joong—let me go," he demanded, trying to sound firm, but the tremor

in his tone betrayed him.

"I’ll… I’ll let you go to Som. Just—just move."

But Joong didn’t.

He stayed exactly where he was—too close, too tense—his fingers flexing

against Pond’s waist like he was holding himself back by sheer will alone.

And the look in his eyes? It was dangerous. The playful arrogance that usually

danced behind his gaze was gone, replaced by something raw and unyielding.

"Are you that stupid, Omega?" Joong hissed,

his voice low but biting, cutting through the air like a knife.

Pond flinched at the venom in Joong’s words.

His heart pounded harder against his ribs as his body struggled to respond—logic

screaming at him to push Joong away while his instincts tangled with

something more primal. Fear, confusion, and something he didn’t

want to name churned in his gut.

"Let me go," he repeated, but this time, his voice came out quieter—almost a plea.

For a split second, he thought Joong might listen—might step back and let

the tension dissipate—but then Joong’s grip on his waist tightened

just enough to make his breath hitch. The heat radiating off his body only

made it worse, seeping into Pond’s skin and making it impossible

to ignore the way the air between them crackled.

"You started this, Pond," Joong muttered under his breath.

"Now, deal with it."

Pond’s heart pounded in his chest—loud, frantic, and impossible to ignore.

The air grew heavier, thick with Joong’s overpowering alpha scent. Pre-rut.

The realization made a cold shiver run down his spine.

If Joong lost control now… only God knew what would happen.

His throat felt dry as he swallowed hard, not daring to speak.

Any wrong move could push Joong over the edge.

Joong’s grip on his wrists was firm, heated, his body radiating raw energy.

And then—without a word—he leaned in, closer and closer,

until his face was just inches from Pond’s neck. Pond’s breath

hitched when he felt Joong’s nose brush against his scent gland.

A hot wave of something primal washed over him.

His body reacted before his brain could catch up—instinct taking over.

Without realizing it, Pond’s legs lifted and wrapped around Joong’s waist.

Joong didn’t stop him. If anything, the touch

seemed to snap the last thread of his restraint.

In one smooth motion, Joong hoisted him up, carrying him to his bed and

laying him down. The mattress dipped beneath their weight, and for a long,

tense moment, Joong hovered over him—his intense gaze locking onto Pond’s,

dark and unreadable.

Pond’s pulse raced, a mix of panic and something else—something he didn’t want to name.

His lips parted, but no words came out. What could he even say?

But then Joong spoke—and the words shattered every last thought in his mind.

"I tried to forget you, Pond…" His voice was rough, low, strained like he was barely

holding himself together. "But I couldn’t. And now… I can’t resist.

I need it. I need you—now."

Pond’s vision blurred at the edges, heat crawling up his spine.

His hands trembled against the sheets beneath him.

This wasn’t the Joong he was used to—the cold, arrogant alpha who mocked

him at every turn. No—this Joong was raw, desperate,

and completely unfiltered out of his mind.

And the worst part?

Pond wasn’t sure if he wanted to stop him and if do he dont know how.

Joong’s lips grazed over Pond’s throat, his teeth barely scraping the sensitive skin.

His hands slid under Pond’s shirt, feeling the warmth of his body—trailing lower until…

Pond’s breath caught in his throat—his entire body stiffened beneath Joong’s weight.

The scent, thick and overwhelming, crept deeper into his senses,

making his thoughts blur at the edges. His omega instincts

stirred dangerously, pulling him toward the alpha’s touch.

But no—he couldn’t let it happen. Not like this.

"J-Joong…" His voice trembled, softer than he wanted it to be.

He tried again, stronger this time.

"Please… just stop for a second."

Joong didn’t stop. If anything, his grip on Pond’s waist tightened as

he pressed closer, his breath warm against Pond’s neck.

The heat radiating from his body made Pond feel

trapped—pinned beneath something far stronger than him.

"Don’t be afraid, doll," Joong murmured, voice low and thick with desire.

His lips barely brushed against the sensitive skin below Pond’s jaw.

"I just want to taste you… let me drink your nectar."

Pond froze.

His heart pounded in his chest—wild and erratic. For a moment,

it felt like the whole world tilted beneath him. Had he misheard?

There was no way—no way Joong had just said that.

His fingers curled into the sheets, nails digging into the fabric

as he struggled to push the rising heat in his stomach back down.

"Y-You’re insane…" Pond hissed through gritted teeth,

forcing his voice to stay steady. But his body betrayed him—his

thighs trembled slightly where they still clung around Joong’s waist.

Joong chuckled darkly, the sound vibrating against Pond’s skin.

"Am I?" His fingers slid dangerously lower, teasing, testing.

"Or are you just scared you might like it?"

Pond’s mind screamed at him to shove Joong away—to do anything to

stop this. But his body… his body was starting to betray him.

The way Joong’s alpha scent wrapped around him like a vice—thick

and unrelenting—made it hard to think straight.

He had to fight it.

"Let me go," Pond demanded, though the edge in his voice was faltering.

"You’re out of your mind—"

But Joong didn’t move. He just leaned in closer, lips brushing the shell of Pond’s

ear as he whispered, "I warned you… if you didn’t let me go, you’d regret it."

Chapter Text

Joong’s breath was hot against Pond’s stomach, each kiss sending a

ripple of heat through his skin. His lips lingered, teasingly slow,

while his hands trailed lower—fingers brushing

along the waistband of Pond’s shorts.

Pond’s heart pounded in his chest as he felt Joong’s fingers curl around the fabric.

S-Stop…”Pond’s voice was weak, barely a whisper as his

hands reached down to push Joong away.

But Joong didn’t listen. With a rough tug, he pulled Pond’s shorts down,

leaving him exposed and vulnerable beneath his hungry gaze.

Pond instinctively squeezed his thighs together, trying to

hide himself, but Joong’s hands were firm—spreading him open without hesitation.

Don’t hide from me, Joong murmured, his voice thick with desire.

I want to see all of you.

Pond’s face burned with shame. He squeezed his eyes shut, as if not seeing

Joong’s face would make this moment less real. But he could feel everything the

way Joong’s rough fingertips traced along his inner thighs,

the way his heated breath fanned against the sensitive skin there.

Joong leaned down, pressing soft, open-mouthed kisses along Pond’s

trembling thighs, his tongue flicking out to taste the sensitive skin.

Each kiss sent electric shocks through Pond’s body, making it harder to

resist the pull of his alpha instincts. When Joong’s lips ghosted dangerously

close to his slick entrance, Pond’s hips jerked involuntarily.

You’re shaking, Joong said softly, amusement lacing his voice.

Are you scared, doll? Or are you just this sensitive?

Pond bit his lower lip, trying to suppress a moan. His body betrayed

him—he was warm, wet, and aching in a way that only grew worse with every teasing touch.

Shut… up, he managed to snap, but the words trembled as they left his lips.

Joong chuckled low in his throat, one hand holding Pond’s

hip while the other trailed dangerously close to his entrance.

He dipped a finger between the slick folds, spreading the warmth

over his fingertips as if testing just how ready Pond was.

When Pond whimpered softly at the sensation, Joong’s breath grew heavier.

So wet, he growled.

You’re acting all tough, but your body… it’s begging for me.

Pond gasped as Joong’s finger pressed inside, the stretch making his thighs tremble.

His fingers curled into the sheets, trying to hold on to the last shred of control he had left.

You bastard,” Pond hissed, but it only made Joong smirk against his skin.

“J-Joong—stop—”

Pond knew he couldn't allow it. If Joong loses control in this moment,

there would be no turning back. Joong's overwhelming strength meant Pond couldn't even

properly nudge him. Pond had to do something, anything, while simultaneously

fighting to maintain his own composure. As Joong teetered on the

brink of losing all sense, Pond was forced to follow his gut.

Please, alpha Pond whispered, his voice barely audible as his eyes met Joong’s.

For a moment, the raw plea in Pond’s voice seemed to snap Joong out of his hunger.

His body was trembling with restraint, his jaw tight as he forced himself to pull back slightly

but the fierce possessiveness in his gaze never faded.)

What do you want, doll? Joong’s voice was softer but no less intense.

Tell me… or I won’t stop.

A gulp caught in Pond's throat. One misstep and everything

would shatter, but his mind refused to cooperate.

Joong's heavy pheromones clouded his mind, making his head light and his

thoughts fractured. He squeezed his eyes shut, forcing himself to focus, and pleaded,

I don't want it, Joong, please stop. Pond kept his eyes tightly closed, but a moment later,

Joong's dark voice cut through the haze.

Suddenly, Joong's grip loosened, and Pond was free.

He spun around instantly, his back to Joong,Pond’s heart pounded against his ribs as he

hurriedly pulled on a pair of long pants, trying to ignore the lingering tremor in his legs.

Call Som, Joong had said, his voice low and dangerous. She’s ready to share my rut with her.

Pond’s stomach twisted at the thought. The possessiveness in Joong’s

touch just moments ago was now gone, replaced by something darker,

something that made Pond’s chest ache. He wanted to leave the room,

to escape the heavy scent of Joong’s desire still clinging to the air,

but his feet felt heavy as he stumbled toward the door.

As he reached the hallway, Pond’s hands trembled slightly as he pulled out his phone.

He could still feel Joong’s touch burning against his skin

his lips, his hands, the way he had held him down like he belonged to him.

It was too much.

He should call Som. It would be easy

she was always ready to throw herself at Joong,

and maybe it would be better this way. If Joong wanted her,

if she could handle his rut, then Pond wouldn’t have to feel this confusion.

But instead of dialing her number, his fingers hovered, hesitating.

The image of Joong—restless and on edge—flashed through his mind.

Something wasn’t right. He wasn’t acting like himself.

The usual cocky, arrogant Joong wasn’t this… desperate. This rough.

Damn it, Pond muttered under his breath before swiping over to another contact

the medical team’s emergency line. His heart raced as he pressed

call, ignoring the little voice in his head asking why he cared.

When the line connected, he quickly whispered,

My roommate

Joong—he’s in pre-rut. Something’s

wrong. He’s not in his right mind.

The other end was quick to respond, the operator’s tone turning

serious as they promised to send a team immediately.

Pond exhaled shakily, feeling a heavy weight settle in his chest as he ended the call.

He told himself it wasn’t because he cared. It wasn’t because he

couldn’t stand the thought of Joong touching someone else. It was just…

the responsible thing to do. Joong was dangerous like this—

he could lose control, and someone could get hurt. That was the only reason.

Right?

Pond shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts as he leaned against

the wall for a moment, his legs still weak from earlier.

He needed to pull himself together before the medical team arrived.

But no matter how much he tried to push it aside, he couldn’t forget the feel of Joong’s

mouth on him—or the way Joong had looked at him with something deeper than just lust.

Stupid alpha, Pond mumbled under his breath,

though his heart betrayed him with the way it still raced.

Pond stood awkwardly, keeping his head down as

the medical team led Joong toward the rut room.

Even in his agitated state, Joong’s presence was overwhelming—his broad shoulders tense,

his breathing heavy as he struggled to control the instincts gnawing at him.

When the door shut behind him with a heavy thud, Pond felt a

strange weight lift from his chest—but something else twisted deep in his gut.

One of the staff members adjusted their clipboard before

turning toward Pond. “Does he have a partner?”

Pond blinked, his brain stalling. “Huh?”

If there’s someone willing to share his rut, the staff member continued,

their voice professional and calm, it would be easier for him to stabilize.

Otherwise, we’ll manage his symptoms, but it will be more difficult and painful for him.

Pond’s mind immediately flashed to Som. Joong had said he was going to her—

if anyone would do it, it was probably her. It made sense. Alpha and omega.

No one would bat an eye. He opened his mouth

to mention her name but… nothing came out.

He shifted uncomfortably. What happens if no one does it?

The staff member sighed, as if used to this question.

We can use suppressant injections to dull the worst of his urges, but those don’t

completely relieve the pressure during a full rut. Without a partner,

his body will stay in a heightened state for longer, which increases the risk

of emotional dysregulation and physical strain.

Sharing his rut is the safest and fastest way for him to recover.

Another staff member chimed in, sensing his unease.

We’ve transferred him to a reinforced rut room. These rooms are

built with advanced soundproofing and scent-blocking systems—

it prevents any disturbance from leaking out or affecting others.

They paused briefly before adding, In fact, all the dorm rooms in

this hostel are designed the same way—thick walls, scent barriers, everything.

It’s a standard precaution, especially for alphas and omegas.

We can’t risk their pheromones spreading or triggering others.”

Pond nodded absently, focusing on that detail. It made sense.

This was a school full of alphas and omegas—of course,

they would take steps to prevent any accidental

… incidents.

“If no one comes forward,” the first staff member added,

we’ll monitor him closely. But the longer it goes on, the harder

it’ll be for him to maintain control.”

Pond swallowed, trying to push down the strange feeling bubbling inside him.

This wasn’t his problem. Joong had plenty of people who would probably jump

at the chance—he didn’t need to worry about it.

I, He shook his head. “I don’t know.”

The staff member nodded, scribbling on their clipboard again.

Understood. If anything changes, let us know.

Pond shifted awkwardly before blurting out the question sitting heavy on his mind.

Uh… if someone shares his rut—and, like, if they’re an omega—what

happens if… y’know His voice trailed off, but the implication was clear.

The staff member didn’t seem fazed by the question.

They adjusted their clipboard and answered in a calm, clinical tone.

We take several precautions to prevent unintended consequences like that.

Pond blinked. Precautions?

The staff member nodded.

Yes. Before an alpha enters the rut room, we administer temporary contraceptive

suppressants. If a partner volunteers, they are also given a preventative injection.

It neutralizes the risk of conception for a limited period.

It’s a mandatory protocol, especially in school environments."

Another staff member added, Additionally, we keep track of any omega’s

heat cycle. We wouldn’t allow a vulnerable omega to

share a rut if there was any significant risk of pregnancy.

Everything is closely monitored."

Pond exhaled quietly, but his chest still felt tight. And if—

He hesitated, but the words slipped out.

If the alpha refuses the suppressants?

The first staff member gave a small, knowing smile.

It’s rare, but we’re trained to handle those situations.

The suppressants are non-negotiable in this environment.

Alphas in rut might have heightened instincts, but once administered,

their body won’t be capable of fertilizing an omega.

Their tone grew a little sharper.

We don’t take risks with student welfare.

Pond nodded slowly, absorbing the information.

So… even if someone goes in there with him, nothing like that can happen?

Correct,t he staff member confirmed.

And for an omega to conceive

outside of their heat is almost impossible without external interference.

They glanced at their watch.

If you’re worried about him, there’s no need. Everything is under control.

But Pond wasn’t sure why he asked in the first place. Something twisted inside him

an uneasy feeling he couldn’t quite shake,

no matter how much the staff tried to reassure him.

On the other side of the thick rut room walls, Joong’s condition was rapidly worsening.

The once-controlled alpha aura around him was breaking down—

his scent grew heavier, darker, and more intense with every passing second.

It wasn’t just frustration anymore. It was raw, feral desire,

and it burned through every muscle in his body.

His alpha instincts, already heightened from the small taste of an omega’s scent,

were now completely unrestrained. Without a partner, the rut would only become more agonizing—

pushing him to the edge of sanity. His body demanded relief,

and no amount of cold showers or medical suppressants

could calm the primal need once it was triggered.

The bio-sensors inside the rut room blared quietly—an emergency

signal only the medical team could detect. Joong’s heart rate was spiking.

His hormonal levels were far past the danger threshold.

One of the team members swore under his breath.

"It’s getting worse. He’s too far gone."

Didn’t we give him the suppressant injection?

another asked, frowning at the monitor.

"It’s not enough," the lead medic said sharply. He’s already had an omega’s

scent. His body is rejecting everything else. He won’t survive the rest of this rut alone.

The room grew tense. Everyone in the medical team understood the danger—

if Joong lost himself completely, even approaching him would be unsafe.

A raging alpha in full rut was nothing to take lightly.

His scent grew heavier by the second—thick and potent—filling the entire rut

room with a raw, aggressive heat. The alpha’s instincts were raging,

barely held in check by the reinforced walls around him.

But even those wouldn’t hold him back forever.

If no one came soon… he might lose control.

The medical team was on high alert. Experienced as they were,

even they knew the risks of leaving an alpha in rut alone—especially someone

as strong as Joong. Without a partner to share his rut, his body would suffer.

Extreme emotional imbalance, pain, and even permanent damage if left unchecked.

"Contact the omega dorm," one of the staff ordered sharply.

We need a volunteer—immediately.

They wouldn’t force anyone, of course. But under these circumstances,

someone had to help him. Otherwise,

Joong might not make it through his rut without breaking.

A younger staff member hesitated. Should I…

should I go ask if an omega is willing to enter the rut room?

Yes—right now. And be quick. The longer he’s alone, the worse it’ll get.

A message flashed across their internal communication system—

Omega located. Waiting outside the rut room.

The assistant nodded quickly and slipped out to retrieve the omega.

Som stood outside the rut room, her heart pounding in her chest.

The moment she heard Joong was in rut and needed someone,

she didn’t hesitate. This was her chance—an opportunity she wouldn’t

let anyone else have. After all, Joong was the most handsome and capable

alpha she had ever met. Any omega on campus would jump at the chance

to be with him, but she wasn’t going to let that happen.

Not when she had already planned for this moment.

They had a mutual understanding—an agreement that if either of them

went into heat or rut, the other would help. Yet, Joong hadn’t called her.

That irritated her. Why hadn’t he informed her? Was he planning to endure

it alone, or worse—had he chosen someone else?

No, she couldn’t allow anyone to take her place.

Adjusting her clothes and smoothing her hair, she took a deep breath to

calm herself. The medical team hadn’t returned yet, and she was

determined to be the first one they saw.

If Joong needed someone, she would make sure it was her.

Meanwhile, back in the dorm room, Pond paced restlessly.

No matter how much he tried to push the unease away,

it wouldn’t leave him. His gut twisted uncomfortably, and the memory of

Joong’s heated expression, the weight of his body,

and the raw desire in his voice wouldn’t stop replaying in his mind.

“This is none of my business,” he muttered under his

breath, but his legs moved on their own.

He didn’t understand why he felt this way—why the thought of Joong with

someone else made his chest feel tight. Still, the gnawing worry wouldn’t leave,

and before he knew it, he found himself walking down the hall, heading toward the rut room.

As he approached, he noticed someone standing near the door.

His stomach dropped when he recognized who it was.

Som.

Of course. Who else would it be?

His jaw clenched as he quietly observed her. She looked far too eager,

adjusting her appearance like she was about to meet a lover.

It made something twist unpleasantly in his stomach. He knew their arrangement—

everyone knew—but seeing her here, waiting to go inside,

the tension in his chest unbearable.

“What am I even doing?” Pond muttered under his breath.

Yet, his feet stayed rooted in place, unable to walk away.

Pond stood at a distance, watching Som with a confused expression.

She was leaning against the wall near the rut room,

her arms folded and her foot tapping impatiently against the floor.

Her posture was calm—but Pond could tell by the way her

curled slightly upward that she was excited.

Of course, she is.Joong was the most desirable alpha in the entire dorm.

If he needed someone for his rut, there was no way Som would let anyone

else get close to him. Their mutual understanding was something everyone knew

about. Pond shifted awkwardly, his heart thudding in his chest.

Just as he was convincing himself to walk away, Som’s phone rang.

Pond’s ears perked up as she answered the call, her relaxed posture stiffening slightly.

Her expression changed—serious, urgent. Without a second glance toward the rut room,

she turned on her heel and hurried down the hall.

Pond blinked in confusion. Where is she going? Wasn’t she supposed to go in?

The medical team had made it clear that Joong couldn’t be left alone

in his state. If Som wasn’t going to help him, then who would?

A gnawing unease settled in his stomach. Why hasn’t anyone else arrived?

Shouldn’t the team have brought someone by now? The rut room was soundproof and

scent-proof—no one outside would hear or smell how bad things were getting.

If no one came, Joong would be trapped in there, alone, battling his instincts.

Pond’s steps were hesitant as he moved closer to the rut room,

his heart pounding in his chest. Why am I even here? he thought,

confused. He knew the medical team had gone to find an omega for Joong

so why hadn’t anyone arrived yet? Where did Som go? She was the obvious choice.

If she wanted to spend her heat with Joong, wouldn’t she already be here?

His brows furrowed as he scanned the empty corridor.

Maybe I’m overthinking. Still,

a strange feeling gnawed at him—something wasn’t right.

Just as Pond was about to turn back to his dorm, a sudden voice behind him startled him.

“You—come with me.”

Pond barely had time to react before a medic team member appeared,

grabbing his wrist. His eyes widened in shock as they pulled

him toward the door without any explanation.

“W-What? Wait—where are you taking me?” Pond stammered,

trying to pull back, but the medic’s grip didn’t loosen.

The medic’s face was tense, their tone urgent.

You’re here, so you’re willing, right? We don’t have time.

If we don’t get someone in there now, it could become dangerous.

I’m not— Pond tried to protest, but before

he could finish, the door to Joong’s rut room slid open.

The moment the door slammed shut, Pond’s knees almost buckled beneath him.

The air inside the room was unbearable—thick, heavy, and drowning in a wild,

raw scent that hit him like a crashing wave.

It wasn’t just an alpha’s scent—it was

Joong’s scent, unfiltered and raging. It clung to his skin, worming its way deep into

his senses, making his heart pound in a rapid, disjointed rhythm.

His chest rose and fell with each breath, but no matter how much air he

pulled in, his head felt dizzy

like his body wasn’t processing things right.

"Why… Why am I here?" The thought barely formed in his mind,

his vision blurring as the scent grew thicker, more intoxicating.

Pond shook his head, trying to fight through the haze. His hands trembled

as he reached for the door handle behind him—

but the lock clicked firmly into place, trapping him. His breath hitched.

Joong was nowhere in sight—but the evidence of his presence was everywhere.

Pond’s eyes scanned the room—his stomach twisting at the destruction surrounding him.

There were punch marks gouged deep into the walls—fist-shaped imprints

where Joong had clearly lost control. The jagged cracks stretched outward like veins of anger.

Furniture was shattered—splintered edges where teeth had ripped through the wood.

Shreds of fabric, torn and twisted, lay scattered across the floor

like remnants of a battle barely survived.

This… this wasn’t normal.

Is this what an alpha’s rut really does? Pond’s throat felt dry as

he swallowed, his fingers curling into fists to keep them from shaking.

He’d never seen Joong like this before. Always composed. Always in control.

But this—this was something else. Something feral. And the scent—

the way it crawled under his skin, making his knees weak was only getting worse.

A sharp pulse of heat flickered low in his stomach, unwanted and sudden.

His whole body felt too warm, as if Joong’s pheromones were infecting him,

twisting his senses. It made him ache in a way that terrified him.

"Why isn’t anyone coming?" he thought, his pulse hammering in his ears.

Where was Som? Why hadn’t the medical team brought another omega yet?

Someone—anyone—who was actually supposed to be here.

His brows furrowed in confusion. He’d seen Som earlier—watched as

she got a call and hurried off.

Wasn’t she supposed to be the one helping Joong? So why—

The sound of running water caught his attention.

Pond froze.

The bathroom door stood slightly ajar—faint steam curling out from the edge.

His heart stuttered, and instinct screamed at him to leave,

to open the door and get out before—

The water shut off.

A chill raced down Pond’s spine. His breath caught in his throat as the

handle turned slow, deliberate—and the door swung open in one violent motion.

And there he was.

Joong.

The alpha’s frame filled the doorway—broad shoulders tense,

his chest rising and falling in sharp, uneven breaths. His damp hair

stuck to his forehead in messy strands, making him look untamed—dangerous.

His skin glistened with sweat, muscles rippling

beneath his thin shirt. But his eyes—

His eyes burned red. Deep, raw hunger filled them—

an animalistic gleam that made Pond’s stomach drop.

He didn’t speak at first.

Didn’t blink.

Just stood there, watching.

And for the first time—Pond felt like prey.

J-Joong? His voice trembled as he said the name, unsure if Joong

could even hear him through the haze of his rut.

I— I didn’t mean to— I shouldn’t be here

The words barely left his mouth before Joong moved.

Fast.

Too fast.

In the blink of an eye, Pond’s back slammed against the wall—Joong’s

hand fisting his shirt, holding him in place. The force knocked the

air from his lungs, leaving him breathless and trembling beneath the alpha’s intense weight.

A low, rough growl rumbled deep in Joong’s chest

so raw, so possessive, it made Pond’s entire body shiver.

When Joong finally spoke, his voice was thick—strained, like it hurt him to form words.

“Omega.”

The single word sent a sharp tremor through Pond’s core

something primal and terrifying stirring deep inside him.

Chapter Text

Pond’s heart pounded against his ribs, breath coming in short, shaky

gasps as Joong pressed closer—his body heat searing

through the thin barrier of their clothes.

The grip on his shirt tightened, bunching the fabric against his chest.

Every inch of Joong’s powerful frame loomed over him, caging him against

the wall like a predator trapping its prey. The raw scent of alpha

pheromones was suffocating—thick, heady, and far too potent.

"Too close—he’s too close—" Pond’s mind screamed, but his body—

traitorous and weak—was frozen. His legs trembled beneath the weight of

Joong’s intensity, heat curling deep in his stomach, spreading lower in a way he couldn’t stop.

“Let—let me out,” Pond forced the words through his dry throat,

trying to push against Joong’s chest. His hands burned where they

touched bare skin—Joong’s body was too warm, like he was on fire.

But Joong didn’t budge.

Didn’t speak.

He only growled—low, guttural, the sound vibrating against

Pond’s skin and making his whole body tremble harder.

The faint glint of teeth marks along Joong’s knuckles caught Pond’s eye

—evidence of how badly he was fighting himself. But whatever

control Joong had left was hanging by a thread—and Pond’s

scent was cutting through it like a blade.

“Alpha,” Pond tried again, hoping—praying—that his voice would

reach through the haze. “I’m not supposed to be here. I—I know you didn’t ask for me—”

The moment those words left his lips, Joong’s head snapped down—

his face dangerously close, his breath hot against Pond’s skin.

His red-rimmed eyes flared, dark and wild.

“Why… you?” Joong’s voice was rough, more animal than human—

like it physically hurt him to speak. His free hand slammed against the

wall beside Pond’s head, fingers curling into a tight fist,

shaking with the effort to hold himself back.

Pond’s stomach twisted painfully.

He didn’t know how to answer that.

He didn’t even know why he was here.

Where was Som? Where was the omega who was supposed to be here?

Why did they send him—when everything about this was wrong?

“I—I don’t know,” Pond admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

His hands trembled as he pushed weakly against Joong’s

chest again, panic rising. “I’ll leave. Just—let me go before—”

A sharp, warning growl cut him off.

“Don’t,” Joong snarled, the word dripping with dominance.

Pond’s heart lurched—his whole body locked under the command,

a pulse of heat surging through his veins that made his knees almost give out beneath him.

No.

No, no, no—he couldn’t let this happen.

“Joong—please—” His voice cracked, desperate and shaking as

his nails dug into Joong’s skin, trying to push him away.

“You—you’re not thinking straight. I’m not the one you want—”

“Liar.”

The word came out in a snarl, fierce and furious.

Pond flinched as Joong lowered his head, his face brushing dangerously c

lose to Pond’s neck—where his scent was strongest. His breath hitched

when he felt Joong’s nose graze against his skin,

the contact sending shivers through his spine.

The scent—Pond’s scent—was driving Joong insane.

And Pond couldn’t escape it.

“Alpha—”

Joong snapped—his hands sliding down to grab Pond’s waist,

his grip bruising and rough. He dragged him closer—so close

Pond could feel every tense, heated muscle against his trembling frame.

“I can smell you,” Joong growled, voice thick with hunger,

his lips brushing against the shell of Pond’s ear.

“You’re shaking—are you scared, omega?”

A violent shiver ran through Pond at the way Joong

said that word—so rough, so possessive.

“I’m not—” He tried to deny it, but his own body betrayed him

—his legs trembling as his scent grew even sweeter,

reacting against his will.

Joong groaned, his grip tightening, and Pond bit back a gasp when

he felt the alpha’s teeth graze along his neck—too close

to the sensitive spot that marked where an omega could be claimed.

“Why…” Joong’s voice was rough, fractured by

the weight of his rut, “Why do you smell so good?”

Pond was shaking too much to answer.

The more he fought, the harder Joong’s alpha instincts pushed

—and the more Pond’s body responded, no matter how much he tried to deny it.

He didn’t want this.

But his scent was betraying him.

And Joong was too far gone to care.

Pond tried to pull back, but Joong’s grip only

tightened, making escape impossible.

“You—You’re in rut,” Pond stammered, forcing himself to

sound steady even as his pulse raced beneath Joong’s

mouth. “You’re not thinking straight—let go.”

“Can’t.” The word came out like a snarl, vibrating against his skin.

Joong’s entire body shook, his muscles twitching under the strain

of restraining himself. “I’ve been fighting it. Hours—alone—and then they send you…”

His voice trembled, raw with something dangerous—

something on the edge of breaking.

“You shouldn’t be here,” Joong ground out, but his actions betrayed

his words. His hand slid up, pressing against the small of Pond’s back,

pulling him closer as his face stayed buried against his neck.

“Your scent—fuck. It’s driving me—”

A deep, frustrated growl escaped him as his nails dug into Pond’s waist

—not hard enough to hurt, but enough to make Pond gasp softly.

Joong stiffened. That sound—soft, unwilling—

only seemed to push him further toward the edge.

“Don’t…” Pond tried to warn, his voice weak as heat curled in his belly.

“Don’t what?” Joong growled, his breath hot against Pond’s skin.

His other hand came up, fingers brushing the side of Pond’s throat—

right where his scent was the strongest. “Don’t lose control?

Don’t touch you?” His lips ghosted over Pond’s pulse,

his teeth barely grazing the skin.

“I—” Pond sucked in a sharp breath, panic flickering in his chest

as his body betrayed him—his knees wobbling beneath the

oppressive weight of alpha pheromones.

“You don’t get it.” Joong’s voice trembled with rage—not at Pond,

but at himself. “I’m trying—trying so fucking hard—

but you’re making it impossible.”

His hand slipped lower, settling on Pond’s hip—too tight—

as if letting go meant he’d lose whatever fragile grip on sanity he had left.

“I can smell you reacting to me,” Joong muttered,

his frustration bleeding through every word. “You keep talking—but your body

—” His voice dipped into something darker, rougher. “Your body isn’t telling me to stop.”

Pond’s breath hitched, his heart hammering in his chest.

“That’s just—your pheromones,” he argued weakly. “I can’t help it—”

“Neither can I.” Joong’s voice cracked, and the hand on his hip

trembled. “You think I like this? You think I’m not

fighting with everything I have?”

Another growl rumbled low in his chest, and suddenly, Joong

slammed his forehead against Pond’s shoulder, as if trying to

block out the scent—to block out the overwhelming need crawling under his skin.

“It hurts,” he admitted through gritted teeth, raw and pained.

“My whole body—it’s on fire. I can’t fucking breathe without wanting to—”

He stopped himself, his jaw locking so tight it trembled.

Pond swallowed thickly, his hands trembling as they hovered

near Joong’s shoulders. The heat radiating off his body was

scalding, like standing too close to a wildfire.

“You—You’re not an animal,” Pond said softly, but his voice wavered. “You can control this.”

Joong let out a harsh, bitter laugh against his skin.

“You think I’m not trying?” His breath grew heavier—hotter—as his hand

flexed against Pond’s hip. “I’ve destroyed half the room already—

I’ve been punching walls—biting myself just to stop.”

His teeth flashed as his lips curled into a snarl, and Pond realized

with a shiver that he wasn’t lying. The punch marks on the walls—

the faint teeth marks on his wrist—he’d been fighting himself the whole time.

And now, with Pond so close—with his scent overwhelming

every instinct—he was hanging by a thread.

“I’m losing it,” Joong said, almost a warning, his voice ragged

with desperation. “And if you keep standing here—talking—

smelling like that—I’m not gonna be able to hold back.”

His hand trembled as it slid up, brushing against the curve of

Pond’s throat again—an alpha’s most vulnerable point of obsession.

Pond’s whole body shuddered under the touch.

Pond’s mind raced. He had to find a way to escape—

had to—before things got out of control.

Before he could process it, a sudden wave of heat washed over him—

dangerous, unstoppable. Joong was there body crowding Pond against

the wall in an instant. A rough, animalistic growl rumbled from

his chest as his hand grabbed Pond’s waist, pinning him in place.

Then—his mouth.

Hot lips crashed against the side of Pond’s neck, open-mouthed and wild,

teeth grazing the sensitive skin without hesitation. The contact sent

a violent shiver tearing through Pond’s body, his heart slamming against his ribs.

“Joong—wait—” His voice came out shaky—weak—but Joong didn’t stop.

Couldn’t stop.

The alpha’s breath was hot and uneven, dragging against Pond’s skin

as his lips moved with raw, feral hunger. Each kiss was harder—deeper—

leaving trails of heat in their wake. His teeth scraped just below Pond’s

jaw, and a broken sound slipped from Pond’s mouth before he could swallow it down.

No. He couldn’t let this happen. He had to push Joong away—had to—

But his hands trembled as they pressed against Joong’s shoulders,

his strength failing against the sheer heat radiating from the alpha’s body.

When Pond tried to pull back, Joong’s arms tightened—rough, unyielding—

and a low, dangerous snarl vibrated against his neck. It wasn’t a warning. It was possession.

“Stop—Joong—” Pond’s breath hitched as the alpha’s mouth moved lower,

kissing a spot that made his knees buckle. He gasped—too loud—and the sound broke Joong.

Joong’s hands grabbed his hips—hard—and he pushed Pond flat against

he wall, trapping him with his entire body. Heat. Pressure. Strength. The sheer force of his hold made Pond’s head spin.

Suddenly, Joong’s teeth sank into Pond’s neck—hard and demanding.

The sharp pain flared for a heartbeat before it melted into a dizzying wave of heat,

making Pond’s knees buckle. His body gave out, sliding between Joong

and the cold door as his breath hitched—a high-pitched whimper

spilling from his lips before he could stop it.

It wasn’t a claiming bite—thankfully—but the pressure throbbed

deep beneath his skin, leaving a mark that burned with every pulse.

His mind felt sluggish, drowning in the thick, intoxicating scent of

alpha pheromones** that clung to the air—to Joong.

Joong’s mouth barely left his neck, warm breath brushing over

the sensitive skin as he growled—a low, dangerous sound vibrating

against Pond’s throat. His lips returned in a rush, kissing and

sucking where he’d bitten, as if the taste alone was

driving him out of his mind.

Pond’s hand, still tangled in Joong’s messy hair

trembled before pulling him closer without thought.

His body wasn’t listening anymore—too hot,

too sensitive—and the moment his fingers tugged, Joong reacted.**

The next thing Pond knew, Joong’s mouth was on his.

The kiss wasn’t soft. **It was fierce—hungry—raw.

Joong didn’t hold back, his lips slanting over Pond’s with rough,

unrelenting force. The second their tongues brushed, Pond felt

heat flood his body, making his thighs clench. His heart pounded loud in his ears

—everything felt too much, too **overwhelming**, but his body couldn’t stop responding.

Joong’s grip on his waist **tightened**, strong hands dragging

Pond closer until there was nothing between them. The heat

pouring off his alpha body made Pond shudder—his omega instincts pulling him deeper.

When Pond tried to push against Joong’s chest, the movement only

provoked him.

A sharp, frustrated growl slipped from Joong’s throat as his hands flexed,

fingers digging into Pond’s hips with a strength that made it clear—he was losing control.

The air was thick—too heavy—Pond’s senses clouded by the sheer

force of Joong’s dominance. There were marks scattered across

the room—fist-shaped dents on the walls, the faint bite impressions on

Joong’s lips where he must have tried to hold himself back.

But now, there was no restraint—not anymore.

Joong pulled back just enough to catch his breath, his face

hovering inches away—**dangerously close. His pupils were blown wide,

his hair wild and falling into his eyes as his chest heaved.

His lips, slick and flushed, hovered over Pond’s as if even a second apart was unbearable.

His voice was rough—wrecked—when he finally spoke.

“Omega…”

Just that word—low and commanding—made a fresh shiver

tear through Pond’s body, heat pooling low and fast.

Joong wasn’t thinking. He couldn’t. His mind was lost in his rut,

and every breath of Pond’s scent only dragged him deeper—harder—to the point of **breaking.**

The air in the room was thick—oo hot, too heavy—as Joong’s mouth devoured his.

The kiss was nothing like before—sloppy, rough, and consuming—

as if Joong couldn’t get enough of him. His lips

were biting and sucking, drawing out broken whimper

that Pond couldn’t hold back, no matter how much he tried.

Every time Pond tried to pull away, Joong chased after him

pressing deeper—tasting, claiming—until Pond’s legs trembled

under the sheer intensity of it. His body felt like it was melting, heat pooling

between his thighs as Joong’s tongue pushed into his mouth,

stealing the breath right out of his lungs.

Pond didn’t even register what happened next until his world tilted—

arms sweeping under his knees and back—and suddenly, Joong was

carrying him. A dizzy gasp slipped from his lips as Joong’s

grip tightened, holding him bridal style like he weighed nothing.

His back hit the bed—soft sheets against his burning skin—

but Joong didn’t stop. Didn’t even pause. He hovered over Pond, lips crashing

back to his like a man possessed—only pulling away when their bodies demanded air.

By the time Joong finally broke the kiss, Pond was breathless—

lips swollen and tingling, his mind struggling to catch up. His chest rose and fell

in rapid bursts as he tried to make sense of the raw, burning desire that had overtaken them.

When Pond’s vision cleared, Joong was already shirtless—broad,

muscled chest on full display, the skin flushed with heat and a

faint sheen of sweat. But that wasn’t what made Pond’s breath hitch.

It was when Joong’s fingers hooked into his waistband

and pushed his pants down, leaving only the thin stretch of his

underwear that made Pond’s heart slam against his ribs.

And what he saw there—God.

The outline of Joong’s cock was massive—thick, heavy,

and straining against the fabric. Even through the material,

it looked obscene—too big, too much**—and when Joong

pushed his underwear down, Pond forgot how to breathe.*

His cock sprang free, flushed a deep red and covered in thick, pulsing veins

—longer, thicker than anything Pond had ever imagined.

No way—his thoughts scrambled, trying to make

sense of how someone could be built like that.

He could feel his face burn hotter—his lips parting in disbelief.

No porn star—no one—could ever compare.

Joong stood there for a moment, chest heaving, his hungry gaze

locked on Pond like he was the only thing in the world that mattered.

His hands twitched at his sides—barely held back by the last threads of restraint.

Pond swallowed hard, his body shivering as his omega instincts

screamed in response. Every inch of him was already aching,

but seeing that—him—it sent a whole new wave of heat flooding through his veins.

How was he supposed to take that?

"What am I thinking? No—I’m not gonna—"

Pond’s mind screamed, but his body wouldn’t listen.

His breath hitched as he tried to push back the heat crawling

through his veins—the lingering ghost of Joong’s mouth

on his neck still burning into his skin. This is insane. I shouldn’t… I can’t…*

But Joong wasn’t giving him a choice.

"Suck it."

The words came out in a low, guttural command

—raw rough and dangerous.

Pond’s eyes went wide, heart pounding

so loud it echoed in his ears. Did he just—?*

His lips parted in shock, but before he could say anything,

Joong let out a deep, threatening growl—

one that made every nerve in his body lock up.

His alpha was **done waiting**.

Pond’s hands trembled as he hesitantly crawled forward,

every movement slow and unsure. His mind was still screaming at him to stop

, to turn away, but the heavy, musky scent filling t

he room was making it harder to think—harder to resist.

When he got closer, it was worse—so much worse.

Joong’s cock stood thick and heavy in front of him,

flushed a deep red—**veins bulging**, twitching slightly under his gaze.

It was **massive**, longer and thicker than anything Pond had ever seen,

leaking at the tip as if his body was demanding relief.

**How am I supposed to…?

Pond swallowed hard, his throat tight as his face burned with humiliation.

His instincts were fighting—half of him wanted to escape,

to get as far away as possible. But the other half…

The omega in him… wanted to obey.

A shaky breath escaped his lips as he leaned closer, his mouth just inches away.

Why am I doing this? Why is he making me—?

Joong’s hand suddenly shot out, fisting in his hair—not hard enough to hurt,

but firm—guiding him forward with zero patience.

Another dangerous growl left Joong’s throat, his grip tightening. “Now.”

Pond’s heart stuttered as his lips parted—hesitant, scared,

but unable to resist the command curling around his thoughts.

Hesitantly, Pond leaned forward, his lips trembling as his tongue flicked out to

lick the tip. The taste was owerful

—thick and heady, a mix of Joong’s potent scent and

something deeper, darker* that made his body burn hotter.

Joong let out a **rough growl**, the sound vibrating through

the room and settling deep in Pond’s gut. His hand in Pond’s

hair **tightened**, encouraging him—demanding** more.
I’ve never done this before…Pond’s mind raced, panic

crawling up his spine. How did I even get here? Why am I—?*

But that question faded the second Joong’s cock twitched against

his tongue—hot, heavy, and far too big for his mouth.

Slowly, he parted his lips wider, barely managing to fit the thick tip inside.

A sharp inhale cut through the air as Joong tilted his head back,

the sound of his ragged breathing making Pond’s skin burn hotter.

Pond flinched when Joong’s hips gave a slow thrus,

pushing his cock deeper into his mouth. The sudden motion

made his throat tighten, his eyes pricking with tears as the sheer size overwhelmed him.

God, he’s too big… How am I supposed to—?

Another low, dangerous** growl pulled him from his thoughts.

Joong was barely hanging on—his control was slipping,

and the weight of his alpha instincts*pressed against every fiber of Pond’s being.

Pond squeezed his eyes shut and forced himself to take more

—his jaw stretching as the thick length*pushed deeper.

His throat convulsed as the tip hit his windpipe, sending a sharp choke through his body.

Joong shuddered above him, the muscles in his thighs twitching.

His fingers flexed tighter in Pond’s hair, but he didn’t pull back—

if anything, his grip only guided** him further.

I can’t… It’s too much…

But Pond knew better than to stop. If Joong got angry, there was

no telling what he would do in this state. The alpha’s rut was

already too far gone, and Pond’s body trembled under the weight of his dominance.

So, with his heart pounding and tears threatening to spill,

Pond forced himself to go deeper—his lips stretched wide as the veins

dragged along his tongue. His throat burned, his breathing choked and uneven,

but Joong’s harsh groan above him sent a pulse of heat straight between his legs.

Why… Why does this feel so…?

Another slow thrust, and Pond’s hands instinctively clutched

at Joong’s thighs, his body trembling as the alpha’s growls

turned hungrier, rougher—like a predator finally tasting blood.

Pond’s eyes burned with unshed tears as Joong’s thick cock slid

deeper into his mouth, stretching his lips far past what he thought

was possible. Each slow, deliberate thrust made his throat

constrict, a soft gag escaping despite his best efforts to stay quiet.

No matter how much he tried—how much he **forced**

himself to take—it was too big, too much for his jaw to handle.

His hands trembled against Joong’s thighs, fingers curling into

the firm muscle as the alpha’s **weight** and **scent** overwhelmed

his senses. Each slick glide along his tongue sent an unfamiliar heat pooling

low in his stomach, a warmth that made his body feel

heavy and hot all at once.

Joong’s breathing grew heavier, more ragged, and then—

his voice, deep and thick with lust, cut through the haze.

**“So good, my omega…”The words were rough, a low growl

vibrating through his chest. “So beautiful… Never seen anyone as beautiful as you.”*

Pond’s stomach twisted at the sound, a shiver racing down his spine.

The praise shouldn’t have affected him—not like this—but his omega

instincts clung to each word like it was something precious,

something only Joong could give him.

His heart pounded harder as he looked up through tear-blurred eyes,

meeting Joong’s gaze. The alpha’s face was flushed, his jaw tight as his

dangerous golden eyes locked onto him—hungry, possessive, fixated*

Joong’s expression softened for a moment, but the heat behind his

eyes only **burned** hotter. With a low chuckle, he reached down

and tucked a loose strand of hair behind Pond’s ear, his fingers **lingering**

against his cheek. The gentle touch sent another pulse of **heat**

through Pond’s already trembling body.

**“So pretty like this… my perfect little omega,”** Joong murmured,

his thumb brushing the corner of Pond’s lips, which were already

**swollen** from the stretch of his cock.

Pond’s breath hitched at the way Joong said **“my omega”**—

like he was already his, like he belonged to him. His mind was too **hazy**

to fight it, too overwhelmed by the **rich scent** of the alpha clouding the room.

When Joong’s **hips** rolled forward again—slow and deep—

Pond’s lips parted wider around the heavy length, a **wet gag** escaping

his throat. Tears spilled freely down his flushed cheeks as his body **shivered**,

torn between wanting to **pull away** and wanting to **please**.

And Joong’s growl only grew **deeper**, his voice thick with satisfaction.

“Such a good omega… taking me so well.”

Pond’s **jaw ached**, stretched beyond its limit as he struggled to take

more of Joong’s **thick cock**. His lack of skill was painfully obvious—

his rhythm messy, his movements unsteady—but none of that seemed to

matter. Joong was **enjoying it**—**too much**—his low, broken

**groans** filling the air with every wet slide of Pond’s mouth.

**“Fuck… just like that—ah, Omega—”** Joong’s voice was rough, almost

**desperate**, as his hips jerked forward again. His control—what little of

it remained—was **slipping**, and the sheer weight of his need was

almost too much for Pond to handle.

Pond’s **fingers** trembled as they wrapped around the base of

Joong’s cock—the part he couldn’t take. His **hand** felt so small

against the thick, heated length, but he didn’t know what else to do.

His jaw was already **tired**, muscles straining to keep up, and if he didn’t

make Joong **finish** soon, he wasn’t sure how much longer he could last.

Without even realizing where the **energy** came from, he began to

move faster**—lips sliding up and down the swollen head while his **hand**

worked the rest of Joong’s cock in tight, desperate strokes. His mouth felt *

*hot**, **wet**, and **messy**, drool spilling from the corners as he

tried to take **more**, **deeper**, anything to make the alpha **come**.

Joong’s **growl** was sudden—dangerous—a warning before his

hips snapped forward, driving himself deeper with a **shuddering thrust**.

**“Shit—Pond—”** His voice broke, raw with pleasure, and then P

ond felt it—the first hot pulse of **release** flooding his mouth.

The sheer **amount** was **too much**. It hit the back of his

throat in thick, **hot spurts**, spilling faster than he could swallow.

**Warm,sticky, and **bitter**—the taste coated his tongue, sending

an unfamiliar **shiver** down his spine. Some of it slipped past his lips,

dripping in messy trails down his chin as Joong’s **cock** pulsed against his tongue.

No, no, no—don’t think like that, Pond scolded himself, but the faint heat

curling in his stomach wouldn’t go away. The **taste** was bitter,

but something about it felt **too good**, too addictive, and

the thought made his face **burn** with shame.

Before he could recover, Joong’s hands were on him—**rough**,

needy—yanking him upward in a single motion. Pond barely

had time to catch his breath before Joong’s **mouth** was on his again—

claiming** him in a kiss that was all teeth and **hunger**.

The taste of himself was still fresh on Pond’s tongue as Joong’s lips

crushed** against his, hot and **desperate. His body trembled

under the intensity, too weak to push away, too hazy*to even try.

Joong’s **fingers** dug into his waist, pulling him closer as he

devoured** his mouth—like he wasn’t satisfied, like he needed

more**—as if nothing would be enough until Pond was **completely his**.

Joong pulled Pond impossibly closer, his grip strong and unyielding as

their mouths moved together in a heated, desperate kiss. His hands

roamed over Pond’s trembling body, fingers digging into his waist before

sliding upward. Without a second thought, Joong grabbed the hem of Pond’s

shirt and tore it open with a rough jerk, the sound of fabric ripping filling the air.

Chapter Text

Pond gasped, his chest rising and falling as Joong’s lips left his mouth, trailing wet, open-mouthed kisses down his neck and toward his exposed skin. Each touch sent shivers through his body, making his thoughts scatter.

When Joong’s mouth found his nipple, warm and insistent, Pond arched beneath him with a soft, broken moan. The sensation was too much—too hot, too intense. He tried to twist away, but Joong’s hands tightened around his waist, holding him firmly in place.

“You’re not going anywhere,” Joong’s voice was a low growl against his skin, rough with the force of his rut. Before Pond could protest, Joong latched onto his nipple, sucking hard while his other hand traced teasing circles over the other.

Pond whimpered helplessly, his fingers flying to Joong’s hair, gripping tight as his body betrayed him. Each pull of Joong’s mouth sent jolts of heat straight to his core, making his thighs tremble. He didn’t even realize he was moaning so loudly until Joong groaned in response, the sound vibrating against his sensitive skin.

His omega instincts were taking over, his body reacting to the overwhelming presence of an alpha in full rut. The ache between his legs was unbearable—hot and slick—and the more Joong touched him, the worse it became.

Joong shifted lower, his lips never leaving Pond’s skin as he trailed hot kisses down his abdomen. His hands spread Pond’s thighs apart, his touch possessive and sure. Every brush of his fingers made Pond shiver, his breath coming in short, needy gasps.

“You’re mine,” Joong growled again, his voice thick with desire, and Pond felt his entire body tremble at the raw, undeniable claim.

Joong didn’t waste any time. With one rough yank, he pulled Pond’s pants down, dragging his underwear along with them and leaving him completely bare. The cold air kissed his heated skin, making him shiver, but it was nothing compared to the burning heat radiating from Joong.

Pond barely had a moment to catch his breath before Joong spread his thighs wider, pressing him flat against the bed. His sharp eyes darkened with hunger as they devoured every inch of the exposed omega beneath him. Without a word, Joong lowered himself between Pond’s legs, his breath hot against the sensitive skin.

A sharp gasp escaped Pond’s lips when Joong’s mouth made contact—hot, wet, and overwhelming. The first stroke of Joong’s tongue against his slick entrance had his back arching, a high-pitched moan spilling out before he could stop it.

“Alpha—ah, more… please,” Pond’s voice trembled, his body already losing control under the relentless attention. His thighs twitched helplessly, instinctively trying to close around Joong’s head, but strong hands held him open, refusing to let him escape.

Joong let out a low, pleased hum at Pond’s broken plea, the vibration sending shockwaves through his core. His mouth moved with purpose—licking, sucking, teasing—driving Pond higher and higher into a haze of pleasure. Every time his tongue dipped deeper, Pond’s mind slipped further away from rational thought, leaving nothing but raw need behind.

The air grew thick and heady as their pheromones mingled, an intoxicating blend of alpha and omega that made everything feel hotter—more desperate. Joong was gone, completely overtaken by his rut, and it showed in the way he consumed Pond like he couldn’t get enough.

The air was thick—too heavy, too sweet. Joong’s breathing grew rougher, each exhale brushing against Pond’s heated skin as his body trembled beneath him. The alpha was completely gone, his mind clouded with nothing but raw need. Pond’s scent, rich and intoxicating, only worsened his rut, making it impossible to hold back.

Joong’s mouth latched onto the soft flesh of Pond’s inner thigh, teeth grazing sensitive skin as he growled low in his throat. The vibrations shot straight through Pond’s core, making his legs twitch helplessly. Every lick, every bite, sent waves of heat crashing through his body. He tried to fight it—tried to push down the rising desire that made his body burn—but the moment Joong dragged his tongue against his slick entrance, Pond’s mind went blank.

“A-alpha…” Pond’s voice broke into a whimper, high-pitched and needy, before he could stop it. His thighs trembled, trying to close around Joong’s head, but the alpha growled, prying them back open with an unforgiving grip.

Joong’s tongue worked him mercilessly—long, slow drags followed by sharp, possessive sucks that left Pond trembling uncontrollably. His body, traitorous and aching, reacted to everything Joong did. No matter how much his mind screamed to resist, his omega instincts were louder, begging for more.

And when Joong groaned against him, the sound vibrating deep inside, Pond’s hips moved on their own. Without realizing it, he arched up, grinding against Joong’s mouth with a desperate, helpless rhythm. It felt too good—too much. Every brush of Joong’s tongue against his sensitive, slick walls made his stomach twist with unbearable heat.

“D-don’t—” Pond tried to speak, but another wave of pleasure stole his breath. His hands, trembling and weak, grabbed at Joong’s hair—not to push him away, but to pull him closer. The moment he tugged, Joong growled louder, the sound deep and rough as his tongue plunged deeper, making Pond see white.

His body burned. Every nerve was on fire, and it only grew worse as Joong’s scent wrapped around him—strong, dominant, consuming. And then, without thinking, Pond’s legs moved on their own. He hooked them around Joong’s waist, dragging him closer, his heels digging into the small of his back. The friction of Joong’s hard, heavy length grinding against his slick entrance made Pond cry out, his voice breathless and broken.

“F-Fuck… alpha—please…” The words spilled from his mouth without permission, and the second they did, Joong snapped.

With a dangerous snarl, Joong rocked his hips against Pond’s heat, his thick member rubbing against the sensitive, soaked flesh. Each thrust was rough—desperate—as if he was barely holding himself back from pushing inside. Pond’s body trembled, his mind melting under the onslaught of sensation, and no matter how much he tried to think, his omega instincts took over completely.

He clung to Joong, his fingers digging into his back, his legs locked tightly around his waist. All logic slipped away as he rutted against the alpha’s cock, desperate for friction—desperate for more. His whole body felt like it was on fire, aching for something only Joong could give. And the way Joong’s mouth moved back up his body—kissing, biting, claiming—only made the fire burn hotter.

Joong’s breath hitched, his voice rough and strained. “Mine…” he growled, his teeth grazing Pond’s neck again—dangerously close to his mating gland. Each bite left deep impressions, his possessiveness clear in every mark he left behind. And no matter how much Pond wanted to resist, his body betrayed him—arching into every touch, craving more, wanting all of it.

As Joong’s fingers pushed deeper inside, Pond’s entire body tensed, overwhelmed by the unfamiliar sensation. His breath hitched sharply as the stretch burned, a sharp contrast to the wet heat of Joong’s tongue teasing his sensitive folds. Each movement of Joong’s fingers was slow but deliberate—twisting and curling inside him, sending jolts of pleasure up his spine.

When the second finger slipped in, the stretch became even more intense. Pond’s walls fluttered helplessly around the intrusion, his thighs trembling as Joong began to scissor him open. The mix of pain and pleasure blurred together, making his mind feel hazy and light.

“Too—too much,” Pond whimpered, his voice breaking as Joong’s fingers pushed deeper, brushing against a spot inside him that made his entire body jolt.

Joong only hummed against his swollen entrance, the sound vibrating through Pond’s core. “You can take it,” he murmured, his voice rough and low. “Your body’s made for me—so tight, but I’ll stretch you open, omega.”

His words sent heat flooding through Pond’s veins, a deep ache building low in his belly. Despite the burn of being stretched so wide for the first time, his body started responding—slick beginning to coat Joong’s fingers as he continued to work him open.

Pond’s hands trembled as he clutched the sheets beneath him, his thighs twitching with each slow thrust of Joong’s fingers. His head fell back against the pillows, mouth falling open as broken moans escaped his lips.

Joong’s patience seemed to waver as the sweet, addictive scent of Pond’s arousal grew heavier in the air. His free hand slid up Pond’s trembling thigh, gripping it firmly to hold him in place. “So beautiful,” he praised, his gaze locked onto Pond’s flushed face. “You’re getting wetter for me… Your body wants me, doesn’t it?”

Pond’s mind was too fogged with pleasure to deny it. His hips moved instinctively, grinding down onto Joong’s fingers, chasing the pressure building inside him. “Alpha—” he gasped, the word slipping out before he could stop it.

Joong groaned in response, clearly affected by the sound of his title on Pond’s lips. He added a third finger without warning, the stretch making Pond cry out softly. But instead of slowing down, Joong leaned in to capture his lips again—swallowing his moans as his fingers thrust deeper, coaxing his tight body to soften even more.

Pond’s legs shook as the pleasure grew too intense to bear, his body responding helplessly to the alpha’s touch. Every movement of Joong’s fingers pushed him closer to the edge, leaving him breathless and trembling beneath him.

Pond gasped sharply, his entire body trembling as the sudden loss of Joong’s fingers and mouth left him feeling unbearably empty. His thighs twitched, the aching need inside him gnawing at his senses, but before he could even catch his breath, something hotter, thicker—bigger—pressed against his entrance.

It was Joong’s cock, and it felt impossible.

The blunt tip nudged against his tight, untouched hole, and the pressure alone made Pond’s stomach twist with panic. It was too much—there was no way his body could take something that thick. He instinctively tried to move away, shaking his head in protest, but Joong’s hands were already on his waist, holding him firmly in place.

“J-Joong—wait, it’s too—” His voice trembled, cracking as he felt the alpha push forward, the thick head starting to stretch him open.

“Relax,” Joong growled, his tone deep and rough with need. But how could he? Nothing about this felt easy—his body wasn’t ready, wasn’t made to take something that big.

Pond’s hands flew to Joong’s chest, trying to push him back. “N-No—I can’t… it hurts—” His words broke into a choked sob as Joong pressed further, the stretch sharp and burning.

“You can take it,” Joong murmured, brushing his lips against Pond’s jaw as his grip on his waist tightened. “I’ll make it fit.”

Tears pricked the corners of Pond’s eyes as the burning ache intensified. He squirmed against Joong’s hold, desperately trying to push him away, but Joong wasn’t budging. Each shallow thrust forced more of his cock inside, inch by inch, stretching him to the point of pain.

“I-It’s too much—Joong, stop!” Pond whimpered, his nails digging into Joong’s shoulders as fresh tears slipped down his flushed cheeks. His body shook as he struggled against the overwhelming pressure.

Joong’s lips found his, kissing him deeply—hot and consuming—as if to distract him from the pain. His tongue slipped into Pond’s mouth, swallowing every broken sound that escaped his lips. The kiss was almost tender compared to the rough, unyielding stretch below, and it made Pond’s heart pound harder in his chest.

“You’re doing so well,” Joong whispered against his lips, his voice softer now, though his hips didn’t stop. “You’re perfect, baby. Just a little more… you can take me.”

Pond shook his head weakly, his tears falling faster as Joong’s cock pushed even deeper. The burning was unbearable—too much—and his legs trembled as his body instinctively tried to pull away.

“I can’t—please… it hurts…” His voice cracked, fragile and breathless, as he tried again to push Joong back.

But Joong wasn’t letting go.

“You’re mine, omega,” he growled, kissing away the tears from Pond’s cheeks. His hands slid up to cradle the back of Pond’s head, keeping their lips locked as he pushed in further, stretching him to the point of breaking. “I won’t hurt you—I’m just giving you what you need.”

Pond whimpered helplessly into the kiss, his body trembling as the thick length forced its way deeper. He felt so full, too full, and it still wasn’t enough—Joong wasn’t even all the way inside. His body ached, his thighs trembling as he tried once more to push against the alpha’s chest, but Joong’s strength overpowered him easily.

“Shhh… I’ve got you,” Joong soothed, his lips trailing down to Pond’s neck, pressing soft kisses along his trembling skin. “Let me in… I’ll make it feel good.”

His words sent a shiver down Pond’s spine, but the pain still burned deep. His body wasn’t loosening, wasn’t accommodating Joong’s impossible size, no matter how much slick dripped from him. His hole clamped around the thick intrusion, trying to push it out, but Joong only pressed deeper, forcing him to take more.

“Joong—” Pond’s voice was barely above a breath, weak and pleading. “It’s too big… I-I can’t—”

“You can,” Joong insisted, his tone low and unyielding. “You’re made for me, Pond. Let your body take me.”

Pond’s legs twitched weakly around Joong’s waist, his strength fading as the alpha continued to stretch him open. The pain made his vision blur, but Joong’s kisses never stopped—soft and warm against his skin, a sharp contrast to the brutal pressure below.

When Joong shifted his hips again, pushing in another agonizing inch, Pond cried out softly, his whole body shuddering. His hands trembled against Joong’s chest, no longer strong enough to push him away. He was losing the fight—his omega instincts battling against his pain, desperate to accept the alpha fully.

“You’re so tight… so beautiful like this,” Joong murmured against his lips, as if he wasn’t driving him to the edge of his limits. His fingers traced soothing circles over Pond’s thighs, but there was no hiding the hunger in his voice. “Just a little more, baby. You’re doing so good for me.”

Pond whimpered again, his tears wetting Joong’s shoulder as his body struggled to take the last few inches. Every shallow thrust forced him open wider, making him cry softly into the alpha’s skin, but there was no escape—Joong wasn’t stopping until he was fully inside.

Joong’s fingers moved faster, rubbing tight, relentless circles over Pond’s clit. The pleasure was sharp—blinding—making Pond’s whole body twitch uncontrollably beneath him. His thighs trembled as Joong’s rough touch sent sparks shooting through his nerves, and no matter how much he tried to resist, his hips bucked into the sensation, chasing more.

“Ah—Alpha… s-stop… it’s too much!” Pond whimpered, voice cracking as his body burned with the overwhelming stimulation.

Joong didn’t listen. Instead, he leaned down, taking one of Pond’s sensitive nipples into his mouth, sucking hard while his fingers worked his clit with ruthless precision. The combination of sensations was too intense—too overwhelming. Pond couldn’t think—could barely breathe. His body writhed beneath Joong, desperate and overstimulated, lost in the haze of pleasure.

In that exact moment—when Pond was falling apart under his touch—Joong seized the opportunity. With a low growl, he pressed the thick his cock against Pond’s entrance and, without warning, slammed his hips forward in one swift, forceful motion.

“AH—!” Pond’s scream pierced the air as Joong’s cock pushed fully inside him, stretching him open all at once. The sudden intrusion burned—too thick, too deep—making tears spring to his eyes as his body struggled to adjust.

“F-Fuck—Alpha—!” Pond choked out, his hands pushing weakly against Joong’s chest, trying to stop him, but it was too late. He was already filled to the brim—completely impaled on Joong’s cock before he even realized what was happening.

“You’re so tight,” Joong groaned, his voice rough and shaking with restraint as his cock throbbed inside Pond’s impossibly tight heat. His fingers didn’t stop, still rubbing Pond’s clit mercilessly, forcing his body to drown in pleasure while he stretched him wide. “Feels so good—taking me so perfectly, baby.”

Pond’s whole body trembled beneath him, overwhelmed by the mix of pain and unbearable pleasure. He tried to squirm away, but Joong’s hands gripped his waist tightly, keeping him locked in place.

“P-Please… it’s too much—ah! D-Don’t move!” Pond begged, his voice barely above a breathless cry. His walls clenched helplessly around the thick length inside him, body struggling to accommodate the sheer size of Joong.

But Joong wasn’t going to stop. Not when he finally had him like this—completely filled, completely his. “You can take it,” he murmured, leaning down to capture Pond’s trembling lips in a heated kiss, swallowing his moans and cries as his cock pulsed deep inside him.

Joong’s patience was slipping—no, it was gone. The tight, wet heat squeezing around his cock was too much, too good. Pond’s scent—sweet and addictive—clouded his mind, making it impossible to think clearly. His cock throbbed painfully inside Pond’s trembling body, and if he didn’t move now, he was going to lose his mind.

A low growl rumbled deep in Joong’s chest as his hips jerked forward instinctively, pulling out slightly before pushing back in. Even that small motion sent a wave of unbearable pleasure crashing through him, making his grip on Pond’s waist tighten.

“F-Fuck—Pond…” His voice was strained, rough with need. “I… I can’t—”

Pond let out a choked whimper, his legs trembling as Joong started to move. The slow drag of his thick cock against his sensitive walls made his back arch involuntarily, but the stretch still burned, leaving tears pooling in the corners of his eyes.

“Alpha—ah! S-Stop—s-slow down—please!” Pond begged, his voice breaking as he clung weakly to Joong’s shoulders. His body wasn’t ready for this—wasn’t used to being filled so deep—but Joong couldn’t stop.

“Can’t—fuck—I can’t stop, baby,” Joong groaned, his head falling against Pond’s neck. His hips moved on their own, sliding in and out, each thrust deeper than the last. The way Pond’s tight heat clenched around him only made it harder to hold back. He was losing control, and no amount of pleading could stop the primal need burning inside him.

Pond’s breath hitched sharply as Joong’s thrusts grew faster, harder—his body trembling under the force of it. His thighs quivered, trying weakly to close, but Joong’s grip held him wide open. The pleasure was starting to blur with pain, and yet, the way Joong was rubbing his clit with each thrust sent sparks of heat coursing through his veins.

“Alpha—p-please—t-too much—” Pond’s voice cracked as he clung desperately to Joong’s back, his nails digging into his skin. But Joong wasn’t listening—he couldn’t.

“You feel so fucking good—so tight—can’t hold back,” Joong growled, his movements becoming rougher, more desperate. His hands slid down to grip Pond’s hips, pulling him into each hard thrust as his cock throbbed deep inside.

Pond’s body shook beneath him, overwhelmed by the relentless pace. Every thrust sent jolts of pleasure crashing through him, his mind growing hazy, unable to focus on anything but the feeling of Joong stretching him wide and filling him completely.

Joong leaned down, capturing Pond’s lips in a fierce, possessive kiss, muffling his cries as his hips snapped forward again and again. There was no stopping now—not when Pond’s body was gripping him so perfectly, pulling him deeper, driving him mad with need.

The stretch was unbearable—too much for Pond’s small, unprepared body to handle. Tears welled up in his eyes, spilling down his flushed cheeks as he trembled beneath Joong. His entire lower region burned, the sharp ache pulsing through his core with each forceful thrust. It was too big, too thick—his body struggled to accommodate the overwhelming intrusion.

“Ah—A-Alpha—s-stop—please… it hurts,” Pond sobbed, his voice fragile and broken as his nails dug weakly into Joong’s shoulders. His vision blurred with tears, and his body trembled violently from the intense sensation coursing through him.

But Joong couldn’t stop—he wouldn’t. The way Pond clenched around his cock was driving him mad, and the intoxicating scent of his heat only pushed him further. His mind was clouded with lust, and his body moved on instinct, forcing his cock deeper inside the tight, resisting warmth.

“Shh, baby… You’re doing so good—fuck—so perfect for me,” Joong murmured, his voice low and rough as he pressed heated kisses along Pond’s tear-streaked face. His thumb slid back to Pond’s swollen clit, rubbing fast, desperate circles to ease the pain and distract him from the stretch.

Pond jerked beneath him, his body twitching helplessly at the sudden burst of pleasure mixing with the ache. It was too much—too intense. His legs trembled as his thighs instinctively tried to close, but Joong’s strong grip held him wide open, leaving him vulnerable to every deep, relentless thrust.

“I can’t—I c-can’t—” Pond cried out, his voice shaking as the burning sensation seemed to swallow him whole. But then—Joong shifted his hips slightly, and suddenly, the thick head of his cock dragged against a spot deep inside that made Pond’s entire body jolt.

A sharp, electric pleasure shot through him, drowning out the pain for a moment. His eyes widened in shock as a helpless, breathy moan spilled from his lips.

“There—oh—Alpha—!” Pond gasped, his body arching as the overwhelming sensation hit him again when Joong thrust deeper, brushing against that sensitive spot. The ache was still there, but the pleasure—oh god, the pleasure was starting to take over.

“Yeah? You like that, baby?” Joong groaned, his lips curling into a smirk as he angled his thrusts to hit that spot over and over. He could feel Pond’s walls clenching tighter around him, the way his body trembled and shivered with every stroke. “Look at you—so good for me, taking it all.”

Pond’s cries of pain began to shift, blending with soft, breathless moans that he couldn’t hold back. His thighs trembled as his body betrayed him, each thrust sending another wave of intense heat spiraling through his core.

“Ah—t-too much—” Pond whimpered, his mind foggy with the mix of pain and burning pleasure. His body felt like it was on fire, and when Joong’s thumb rubbed faster against his clit, it became impossible to think—to do anything except feel.

“Too much? But you’re squeezing me so tight, baby… You can take it,” Joong growled, his voice thick with desire as he dipped his head down, capturing one of Pond’s flushed nipples between his lips. He sucked hard, flicking his tongue against the sensitive bud while his cock kept hitting that spot deep inside.

A broken, needy moan tore from Pond’s throat as his legs wrapped tightly around Joong’s waist, his body arching into the pleasure despite the stretch. His senses were overwhelmed—every touch, every thrust, every teasing caress sending him spiraling deeper into the heat.

“Alpha—please—don’t stop,” Pond finally begged, the words spilling out before he could even think. His mind was lost in the pleasure, in the way Joong filled him so completely, so deeply, hitting that perfect spot over and over until the pain faded into something else entirely—something he never wanted to end.

Joong’s body trembled with the effort to hold himself back. His alpha instincts roared—demanding, aching—to knot the omega beneath him and claim him fully. The warmth surrounding his cock was too much, too tight, too perfect. His breath came in ragged, heavy pants as he buried himself deeper, chasing the unbearable need to mark Pond as his.

But somewhere, beneath the haze of his rut, a flicker of reason held him still. Not yet. If he knotted Pond now—when the omega’s body was still too tight, too unprepared—it would hurt him. And Joong, no matter how deep his instincts ran, couldn’t bring himself to cause that pain.

His jaw clenched, muscles straining as he fought his own nature. The frustration burned hot, and a low, dangerous growl rumbled from his chest as he thrust harder—faster. Every nerve in his body screamed to lock himself inside, to push deeper and tie them together. His fingers dug into Pond’s trembling thighs, holding the omega in place while his hips worked with frantic, primal urgency.

Pond, already too far gone, barely registered Joong’s struggle. His body quivered uncontrollably, pleasure and exhaustion twisting into a hazy blur. The thick cock filling him, dragging against his sensitive walls, made his head spin. Every time Joong’s tip brushed against that spot inside, a fresh wave of heat rolled through him—making his body arch, his lips tremble with breathless whimpers.

“Alpha…” Pond moaned weakly, his voice breaking. His legs twitched, struggling to stay wrapped around Joong’s waist, but the relentless thrusts made it impossible to hold on. His body was sensitive—too sensitive—and every movement sent electric jolts of pleasure through his veins.

Joong’s growl deepened, the sound vibrating against Pond’s skin as his mouth found the omega’s neck. His teeth scraped over the unmarked skin—so easy, so tempting to bite down and make Pond his forever. But even as his alpha howled for release, the last thread of control refused to break.

Instead, Joong slid his hand between them, his rough fingers finding Pond’s swollen clit. He rubbed fast and hard—drawing out helpless, broken moans from the omega beneath him. The added stimulation made Pond’s vision blur, his entire body trembling as the pressure built again.

“Come for me,” Joong growled, his voice rough and demanding. “Let me feel you.”

Pond couldn’t hold back—his body obeyed the alpha’s command without question. His release crashed over him, leaving him gasping and shaking as his walls fluttered helplessly around Joong’s cock.

The sensation of Pond’s tight heat clenching down was too much—Joong couldn’t hold back any longer. With a feral snarl, he thrust deep one final time, his cock pulsing as he spilled inside. His knot swelled at the base, twitching insistently, desperate to lock them together. But even in his haze, Joong’s grip on himself held—barely. He pulled out at the last second, his knot brushing against Pond’s slick entrance as he released outside, his hot seed spilling over Pond’s swollen, sensitive folds.

His chest heaved as he collapsed against Pond, pressing their bodies close. His mouth found the omega’s lips—soft and possessive—as if to soothe the ache of leaving him unknotted. Pond, still trembling in the aftermath, barely registered the warm, sticky mess between his thighs or the way Joong held him so tightly.

Joong’s hands gentled, sliding over Pond’s skin in slow, calming strokes as his growls softened. His instincts still raged beneath the surface—aching to claim fully—but for now, he’d held back. For Pond

After four days of relentless rut, Joong finally felt the heat in his body subside. His muscles were heavy with exhaustion, but the tight coil of desire had finally loosened. His mind, once clouded with primal instinct, was now sharp enough to realize the state of the omega lying beneath him.

Pond was completely out—his small body limp, face flushed, and lips swollen from Joong’s constant attention. His skin was marked with evidence of Joong’s possessiveness, and despite the warmth in his chest, panic began to creep in. What had he done?

Joong pushed himself up on shaky legs, his body protesting every movement. Somehow, he managed to stagger to the small shower stall in the corner. The warm water felt like heaven against his sore muscles, washing away the remnants of his rut. But even as the heat soothed his body, his mind stayed on Pond—his omega—who lay motionless on the bed, still too exhausted to stir.

When Joong finished cleaning himself, he didn’t hesitate to return to Pond’s side. His heart clenched at the sight—Pond’s body marked with evidence of their days together, his skin flushed and delicate. With careful hands, Joong lifted the omega and carried him to the shower, supporting his limp frame under the gentle spray of water.

Pond barely stirred, letting Joong’s strong hands wash him. Joong’s touch softened, mindful of the omega’s soreness, especially as he gently cleaned between his thighs. Seeing Pond so worn out because of him made something deep inside Joong twist—pride mingling with guilt.

With shaking hands, Joong gathered the soft clothes left in the rut room’s supply kit. He dressed himself quickly, and then turned his attention to Pond. His stomach twisted at the sight—Pond’s thighs were trembling faintly, slick still glistening on his pale skin. The omega didn’t stir as Joong gently wiped him down, but his brows furrowed slightly when Joong carefully dressed him in soft, loose clothes.

"Shit…" Joong muttered under his breath, panic bubbling in his chest. What if I hurt him? What if he hates me?

Pond let out a soft sigh in his sleep, curling instinctively into Joong’s touch. That tiny sound eased some of his panic—but not enough.

Once Pond was dressed, Joong carefully lifted him into his arms, cradling him against his chest in a bridal carry. The omega barely stirred, his head lolling against Joong’s shoulder. He was so soft, so delicate, and Joong felt an overwhelming need to protect him.

As he walked toward the door, Joong hesitated. The room was a mess—evidence of his loss of control everywhere—but he couldn’t stay. Not when Pond needed rest, real rest, somewhere more comfortable.

His heart pounded as he opened the door, stepping outside into the cooler air of the corridor. With every step, his panic grew stronger. What happens now?

As Joong stepped out of the rut room, the medical team immediately sprang into action. Several nurses rushed toward them, their faces tense with worry. One of the senior doctors quickly assessed the situation, his sharp gaze scanning both Joong and the exhausted figure in his arms.

“How is the omega?” the doctor asked, signaling for an assistant to prepare a medical scanner.

Joong, still holding Pond securely in his arms, shifted slightly. “He’s just tired,” he said, his voice rough from days of exertion. “Nothing else.”

The team ran their tests swiftly, checking Pond’s vitals and scanning for any signs of internal damage or—what concerned them the most—a claiming mark. It was standard procedure to give alphas in rut a suppressant to prevent them from instinctively claiming their partner, especially in shared housing situations like the academy. But in Joong’s case, no one had been able to get close enough to administer it.

One of the nurses bit her lip, muttering quietly, “If he marked him, it’s too late to reverse…”

The doctor’s brow furrowed as he finished his check. “No mark. That’s… surprising,” he said, glancing at Joong. “Considering how intense alpha ruts are, especially yours.” His voice held a mixture of relief and disbelief.

“Didn’t think you had that kind of self-control,” another nurse murmured under her breath.

Joong scowled. “I’m not a fucking animal,” he snapped, but even he felt a strange sense of confusion. How had he stopped himself? He barely remembered those four days—only the overwhelming need to be inside Pond. The way Pond’s scent made his blood boil should’ve broken any restraint he had.

The only explanation—one that twisted uncomfortably in his gut—was that his dislike for Pond was stronger than his alpha instincts.

As the team continued their checks, Joong tightened his hold on Pond’s limp body. His scent—soft and sweet—still clung to Joong’s skin, and he could feel something strange stirring in his chest.

“He’s clear,” the doctor finally announced. “Just exhausted. No internal damage, no pregnancy. Make sure he rests for the next few days—no strenuous activity.” He glanced at Pond’s flushed face before adding, And don’t let him walk today.

Joong barely gave a nod before turning to leave, Pond still limp in his arms. But just as he reached the door, a weak voice broke the silence.

“I can walk,” Pond muttered, though his voice wavered, and his body barely stirred.

Joong snorted, his grip tightening. “Yeah? You couldn’t even keep your legs open without shaking—don’t act tough now.”

Pond’s face flushed a deep red, mortified at the reminder. “You—! Don’t talk about that!” His voice was sharper now, cutting through his exhaustion as he squirmed against Joong’s hold. “And why the hell are you still carrying me? Put me down, you caveman!”

“Medical orders,” Joong said coldly, not even glancing at him. “You’re too sore to walk. Don’t blame me—blame your weak ass body.”

“Maybe it wouldn’t be weak if you didn’t lose your damn mind in there,” Pond snapped back, struggling against his hold. “Who even does that?! I thought alphas were supposed to have self-control!”

Joong’s grip on him tightened just slightly—a reminder that Pond’s squirming wasn’t going to get him anywhere. “Control?” he scoffed. “Be glad I didn’t knot you.”

Pond froze in his arms, his breath catching. “…You—what?” His voice dropped to a stunned whisper, and his blush deepened in horror. “You were… you almost—?”

Joong didn’t answer immediately, his face hard and unreadable as he stepped into their dorm. The memory of it burned hot—how close he had been to losing it completely, how much his body still ached to finish what he started. But he had stopped. Somehow.

“Didn’t happen,” Joong said shortly, like that erased the truth of how badly he had wanted to claim Pond. “So quit whining.”

As he laid Pond down on his bed, his movements were rougher than necessary. Pond flinched but refused to look at him, his face still flushed in mortification. His whole body ached with soreness, and the realization of just how close things had gotten sent another wave of embarrassment crashing over him.

“I can’t believe… I’m stuck with you,” Pond muttered, glaring at the ceiling. “And you—you’re acting like this is my fault.”

Joong, standing over him, let out a low, humorless chuckle. “If you can still run your mouth, you’re fine,” he said. But despite the sharpness in his tone, his hands lingered for a moment longer—eyes trailing over Pond’s exhausted form before he pulled back.

Without another word, Joong turned and left, slamming the door behind him. Yet even as the sound echoed through the dorm, the scent of Pond still clung to his skin, and no matter how much he wanted to shake it, the pull toward the omega refused to fade.

The memory of Pond’s hands found their way into Joong’s messy hair, tugging as his body trembled beneath him. “Joong—ah! I-I can’t… it’s too much…” But even as he said the words, his hips pushed up, chasing more of the intense sensation.

Joong growled in response, the sound vibrating deep in his chest as he dragged his tongue over the most sensitive spot, making Pond cry out. His hands gripped Pond’s thighs tighter, holding him still while his mouth worked him over without mercy.

“Alpha…” Pond’s voice broke on a whimper, his head tilting back as waves of heat rolled through him. The ache deep inside grew unbearable, a primal craving that only Joong could satisfy. Every nerve in his body burned with need, and all he could think about was having the alpha inside him—filling him, claiming him.

The way Joong’s touch grew rougher—more demanding—it was clear he wouldn’t hold back for much longer.

Chapter Text

Joong was exhausted—his body felt like it could collapse at any moment—but the faint scent of Pond still clung to his senses, making it impossible to fully relax. He ran a frustrated hand through his hair, glancing toward the bed where Pond lay, still fast asleep. His face was flushed, lips slightly parted, and his pale skin seemed even softer under the dim dorm lights.

It wasn’t like he wanted to take care of him. But after everything, leaving Pond in this state didn’t sit right with him either. With a sigh, Joong dragged himself to the small dorm kitchenette, deciding to make something quick to eat. If nothing else, Pond needed to regain his strength—and maybe, just maybe, Joong could stop feeling guilty for pushing him so hard.

He threw together a simple meal, working on autopilot. His limbs felt heavy, and the thought of his own bed was tempting—but he forced himself to finish. Once done, he left a plate on the table and finally let himself fall onto his bed, eyes shutting the moment his head hit the pillow.

When he woke up, the room was quiet except for the faint rustling sound coming from the other bed. Joong blinked, his mind still foggy with sleep, until he caught sight of Pond sitting up. His hair was messy, his expression sharp with irritation, and his narrowed eyes were locked directly on Joong.

Joong sat up with a groan, glancing at the clock. 9:00 PM. They had both slept the entire day away.

"What?" Joong muttered, his voice rough from sleep.

Pond scowled, his tone clipped. "I need to go to the washroom."

For a second, Joong just stared at him—then realization hit. Right. Pond was still too sore to walk properly. The memory of him trembling under Joong’s touch flashed through his mind, and Joong had to clench his jaw to keep his thoughts in check.

"You can walk, can’t you?" he said, leaning back against the wall with a smirk, even though he knew the answer.

Pond’s glare sharpened. "If I could, do you think I’d be asking?"

Joong sighed, pushing the blanket aside. "Tch. You’re such a pain."

"You think I wanted this?" Pond snapped, his voice lower but no less biting. "You’re the one who couldn’t control yourself—"

"And you’re the one who ended up in my rut room," Joong cut in, his tone cool but edged with something dangerous. "If you didn’t want this, maybe you shouldn’t have—"

"Shut up and help me," Pond growled, cutting off whatever smart remark Joong had lined up.

For a moment, the tension hung heavy between them. Then, with another irritated sigh, Joong swung his legs off the bed and walked over to Pond. Without warning, he hooked his arms under Pond’s legs and back, lifting him effortlessly.

"Hey—!" Pond yelped, squirming in his hold.

"Stop moving unless you want me to drop you," Joong warned, voice low as he carried Pond toward the bathroom. Despite his words, his grip was firm—maybe a little too firm—and Pond’s face burned with embarrassment.

"I can’t believe you’re acting all high and mighty when you were the one—"

"Unless you want me to help you inside, quit complaining," Joong shot back, barely holding back a smirk as Pond’s mouth snapped shut.

He set Pond down gently at the bathroom door, lingering only a second longer than necessary before pulling back. "Hurry up," he muttered, but there was a flicker of something else in his voice—something heavier that neither of them wanted to name.

Pond didn’t answer. He slammed the bathroom door in Joong’s face instead.

Pond leaned against the shower wall, his legs trembling beneath him. The warm water did little to soothe the deep ache spreading through his lower body. Every step he tried to take sent a sharp, burning sensation through him—a reminder of everything Joong had done.

His throat tightened as the memories pushed their way back in—how rough Joong had been, how relentless. No matter how much he tried to shove the thoughts aside, his body still remembered. The stretch. The heat. The way Joong had held him down and—

*"Stop thinking about it."* Pond gritted his teeth, but his body wasn’t listening. His skin felt too hot, too sensitive, as if Joong’s touch was still there, burning into him.

He tried to move, but his knees nearly buckled. The soreness between his legs was unbearable—too raw to ignore. There was no way he could walk on his own. Frustration burned in his chest. *Stupid alpha. Stupid rut.*

His stomach growled loudly, reminding him how long it had been since he last ate. The realization only deepened his anger. He hadn’t asked for any of this. And now, after everything, he couldn’t even take care of himself without feeling like his body was betraying him.

He swallowed his pride and reached for the door handle, biting back the pain. There was no point in sitting there like an idiot. If he stayed any longer, Joong would probably come looking for him, and that was the last thing he wanted.

As he pushed the door open, cool air rushed against his overheated skin, making him shiver. His eyes narrowed as he spotted Joong, sitting on the edge of the bed with his head tilted back, looking just as exhausted.

Pond’s pride flared. *No way I’m asking for help.* But as soon as he tried to take a step, his body betrayed him again—his legs trembled violently, and a sharp ache shot through his core, making him gasp.

Joong’s head snapped up immediately. In an instant, he was on his feet, moving toward him.

“You’re gonna fall, idiot,” Joong muttered, his voice rough and low. Without waiting for permission, he scooped Pond up into his arms.

“Put me down,” Pond snapped, struggling weakly against his hold. His face burned with embarrassment. “I can walk—”

“Yeah? You call that walking?” Joong’s tone was sharp, but there was an edge of something else—something darker. His grip on Pond’s waist tightened as he carried him effortlessly toward the bed. “Stop being stubborn before you hurt yourself.”

Pond wanted to protest—to shove Joong away—but the warmth of his body, the strength in his arms, made it impossible. His body was too sore to fight, and deep down, he knew Joong was right.

Joong laid him down gently, but even that slight movement sent a sharp pulse of pain through him. Pond bit his lip hard, refusing to make a sound.

“You’re too loud for someone acting tough,” Joong said quietly, his gaze flicking over Pond’s flushed face. There was no trace of his usual arrogance—just a heavy, lingering tension between them.

Pond’s stomach growled again, loud and insistent.

Joong’s lips curled into a smirk. “Hungry?”

“Shut up,” Pond snapped, turning his face away to hide the heat rising in his cheeks.

Without another word, Joong walked toward the small kitchenette. He moved quickly, the sound of clattering dishes filling the room. It didn’t take long before he returned with a bowl of warm soup, the scent making Pond’s stomach twist with hunger.

“I didn’t ask you to—”

“Eat,” Joong interrupted, shoving the bowl into his hands. “You’re not gonna recover if you starve yourself, dumbass.”

Pond hesitated, glaring at the bowl like it personally offended him. The last thing he wanted was to accept anything from Joong. But his hunger gnawed at him, and pride wasn’t going to fill his stomach.

“Fine,” he muttered, taking a careful sip. The warmth slid down his throat, easing some of the tension in his chest.

Joong sat back, watching him with unreadable eyes. For a moment, there was nothing but silence between them—thick, heavy, and impossible to ignore.

But no matter how much Pond tried to focus on the food, his body still remembered—every ache, every burn. And worse, the way Joong’s touch had made him feel.

And that, more than anything, was what he hated the most.

In the middle of the night, Pond’s eyes snapped open, a sharp ache pulling him from his restless sleep. His lower region throbbed painfully—especially the unfamiliar soreness between his legs. Every movement sent a dull burn through his body, making it impossible to find a comfortable position.

He bit his lip in frustration. Stupid alpha. Stupid rut. It was all Joong’s fault. If he hadn’t—No, don’t think about it. Pond shook his head, trying to push the memory away. But the ache was impossible to ignore, and he knew he needed the cream the medical team had given him to ease the soreness.

Carefully, he shifted to the edge of the bed, wincing at the tug between his legs. Moving was torture, but lying there, helpless, felt worse. He wasn’t about to let Joong see him weak—not again.

He stood slowly, biting back a gasp as pain flared through his core. Each step toward the small bedside table was a battle. He fumbled quietly, searching for the small tube the medical team had provided. His fingers brushed against random items—water bottles, his phone, a crumpled paper—but no cream.

“Where the hell is it?” Pond whispered under his breath, his irritation spiking. He leaned down, searching the lower shelves, only to accidentally knock over a glass. It hit the floor with a soft clink, loud enough to shatter the silence.

From the other bed, Joong let out a low, rough groan, shifting slightly under the covers. Pond froze, heart pounding, hoping he would fall back asleep. But when he glanced over, he saw Joong’s eyes—half-lidded and heavy with sleep—fixed on him.

“The hell are you doing?” Joong’s voice was rough, rasping through the dark room.

“None of your business,” Pond hissed, turning back to the table, still rummaging through the clutter. His skin prickled under Joong’s gaze, the heat from earlier creeping back without permission.

Joong inhaled sharply, and his expression darkened. Even through his exhaustion, the scent hanging in the air was impossible to miss—Pond’s irritation, frustration, and the lingering sweetness that came from his omega body being overstimulated.

“Stop making those scents,” Joong muttered, voice low and edged with annoyance. “It’s pissing me off.”

“Like I care what pisses you off,” Pond snapped quietly, though his face flamed at the reminder that Joong could smell everything he was feeling.

Joong exhaled harshly, pushing himself up on his elbows. Even with his hair messy and sleep clinging to his expression, there was something about the way he looked at Pond—sharp and heavy—that made the omega tense.

“You’re not gonna find it like that, idiot,” Joong said, his tone softer but still rough. “It’s in the drawer on the right.”

Pond stiffened, hating that Joong knew exactly what he was looking for. Without responding, he yanked the drawer open and found the cream sitting neatly inside. Of course Joong had put it away—controlling alpha bastard.

He turned back toward the bathroom, biting down the soreness as he walked. But just as he reached the door, Joong’s voice stopped him.

“Don’t take too long,” Joong murmured, his voice dropping lower—quieter. “If you pass out in there, I’m not dragging your ass back to bed again.”

Pond’s heart pounded harder in his chest, and he didn’t trust himself to answer. With a huff, he slammed the door behind him, leaning against it as soon as it clicked shut. His breath came quick and uneven.

He hated Joong.

Pond was stirred awake by the mouthwatering scent drifting through the room. His stomach growled in response, reminding him how little he’d eaten in the past few days. Blinking sleepily, he stretched—only to wince at the lingering soreness between his legs.

He turned his head toward the source of the smell and froze. Joong was standing in the small kitchenette, sleeves rolled up, hair still tousled from sleep. The sight alone was irritating—why did he have to look so effortlessly good, even when he was doing something as simple as cooking?

Pond’s stomach growled again, louder this time, and he scowled. *Great. Now my body’s betraying me too.*

Annoyed, he grabbed his phone from the bedside table, swiping through his messages. Still nothing from Jeff. With a huff, he tapped the call button, bringing the phone to his ear. It rang… and rang… and rang—until it went to voicemail.

“Ugh, useless,” he muttered under his breath, tossing the phone aside. He leaned back against the pillows, pretending he wasn’t watching Joong’s every move from the corner of his eye.

Why was he always so damn hungry? His body still felt off, too warm and too sensitive. He shook his head, pushing those thoughts aside.

A few minutes later, Joong turned around, carrying a plate piled with freshly cooked food. Without a word, he placed it on the table beside Pond’s bed, the scent intensifying as the steam curled into the air. It looked… good. Annoyingly good.

Pond raised an eyebrow, trying to hide how much he wanted to dive into it. “What’s this?”

“Food. Obviously,” Joong muttered, turning back toward the kitchen like he couldn’t be bothered to stay.

“I know it’s food, dumbass,” Pond snapped, glaring at his retreating back. “Why’d you make it for me?”

Joong paused for a second before shrugging. “You’re too weak to do it yourself.”

Pond’s face flamed with embarrassment. “I’m *not* weak.”

“You couldn’t even walk to the bathroom last night,” Joong shot back without missing a beat, his voice smooth but sharp. “Eat before you start whining again.”

Pond huffed but reached for the fork anyway, stabbing into the fluffy eggs and warm rice. The first bite made his irritation falter—*damn it*, it tasted as good as it smelled.

“…It’s not terrible,” he muttered under his breath, hoping Joong didn’t hear him.

Of course, Joong did. He let out a soft, mocking chuckle. “You’re welcome, princess.”

“Don’t call me that,” Pond snapped, shoving another bite into his mouth, trying to ignore how much better he felt with real food in his stomach.

Joong didn’t reply, but when Pond glanced up, he caught the faintest smirk tugging at the alpha’s lips before he disappeared back into the kitchenette.

As much as he wanted to stay mad, Pond couldn’t deny the warmth spreading through his chest. And the food—damn it—the food was really, really good.

Pond was halfway through the meal, savoring the warm taste that soothed his exhausted body, when a sudden knock at the door made him freeze. His heart skipped a beat—no one was supposed to visit them, especially not this early after everything that had happened.

Joong, without saying a word, stood up and made his way to the door. Pond tried to act casual, focusing on his food, but his mind raced. Who the hell could that be?

When Joong returned, he wasn’t alone. Pond’s breath hitched as Som stepped into the room, her face a mix of worry and frustration.

Panic surged through him, and without thinking, Pond yanked the bed’s curtain closed, hiding himself from view. His heart pounded against his ribs as he strained to hear their conversation.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Som’s voice was sharp, but there was an edge of concern beneath the irritation.

Joong sighed softly, his voice calmer—gentler than Pond expected. “I didn’t want to bother you. You were busy.”

“That’s not an excuse,” Som shot back, but her tone softened slightly. “I would’ve come back, Joong. I wanted to be there for you.”

Pond’s stomach twisted uncomfortably. His fingers clenched the blanket, heat crawling up his neck. Of course, she wanted to be there.

“I know,” Joong murmured, and there was something warm—almost apologetic—in his voice. “I’m sorry. It happened too fast.”

Pond froze. Since when does Joong apologize to anyone?

“You could’ve at least told me,” Som huffed, but she didn’t sound as angry anymore—just… hurt. “I left for a couple of minutes, and suddenly the medical
team tells me it’s already handled. Do you know how that felt?”

Joong sighed again, quieter this time. “I didn’t plan it that way. It wasn’t supposed to happen like that.”

Pond’s breath caught. He could feel his pulse in his ears, his body tensing at Joong’s words.

Som’s voice grew softer, almost pleading. “Who was it, Joong? Who volunteered?”

For a moment, there was silence. Pond held his breath, waiting—dreading—Joong’s answer.

“I don’t know.” Joong’s voice was smooth, even. Too even.

“You don’t know?” Som echoed in disbelief. “Joong, come on. You expect me to believe someone just walked in, and you didn’t even check?”

“I was in rut, Som,” Joong said, his voice still gentle, but there was an undertone of something harder beneath it. “I wasn’t exactly thinking straight.”

Som let out a breath, and the room fell quiet again.

“You were okay, though?” Her voice softened completely now, the frustration giving way to genuine concern.

“I’m fine,” Joong reassured her, and his tone turned almost… fond. “You don’t need to worry so much.”

“How can I not?” she muttered, and there was a sound of movement—like she was stepping closer. “I care about you, Joong.”

Pond’s stomach twisted harder. He didn’t like the way Joong was talking to her—soft, almost sweet. It felt too personal, too familiar. And worse, it didn’t sound like the cold, dismissive tone Joong always used with him.

“I know,” Joong murmured, and his voice dipped even lower, almost intimate.

Som sighed, but her voice was gentler when she spoke again. “You’re so frustrating sometimes, you know that?”

Joong chuckled quietly, the sound soft and warm. “Yeah, I know.”

Pond squeezed his eyes shut behind the curtain. He shouldn’t care. He didn’t care.

And yet, the way Joong spoke to her—it was gnawing at him.Pathetic double face basterd, Pond thought.

Som shifted her weight, crossing her arms as she stared at Joong with narrowed eyes. “Wait—don’t tell me you didn’t take the claiming suppressants?”

Joong didn’t even flinch. “I didn’t.” His voice was flat, as if it was the most normal thing in the world.

Som blinked, visibly taken aback. “What—are you serious? Joong, *why*? Do you know how risky that is?”

Joong let out a low chuckle, the sound dry and almost bored. “It was too late by the time they tried. I was already in the rut room.”

Her expression tightened with concern. “And you’re telling me you didn’t claim them? Not even by accident?”

“No.” His answer was firm. Confident.

But Som clearly wasn’t satisfied with just his word. She pulled out her phone, dialing quickly. Joong didn’t stop her—not that he ever cared enough to explain himself. While she murmured a few questions to the medical team, Joong leaned against the wall, his hands stuffed into his pockets, looking like this whole conversation was beneath him.

Pond, hidden behind the curtain, gritted his teeth. Of course Joong didn’t care. Why would he? This was just another day for him—nothing serious. Nothing important.

Som finally ended the call, exhaling a breath of relief. “They said you didn’t claim anyone,” she confirmed, but her brows were still furrowed in confusion. “But… how? It doesn’t make sense. You’re not exactly known for having perfect self-control—especially not during your rut.”

Joong tilted his head slightly, a mockingly thoughtful look on his face. “Maybe,” he drawled, “even when I was out of my mind, I couldn’t bring myself to mark them. Guess I must really hate them, huh?”

Pond’s whole body tensed, his fingers digging into the blanket. *This asshole.*

As if the whole situation wasn’t humiliating enough—now Joong was making it sound like he was so repulsive, so unbearable, that even an alpha in full rut couldn’t stand to claim him.

A hot wave of anger flared in his chest.

He clenched his fists, biting down the urge to throw the curtain open and tell Joong exactly where he could shove his ego. But no—he wouldn’t give Joong the satisfaction. Not when he was already so smug about everything.

Som, still looking confused, shook her head. “That’s… weird, Joong. Seriously. You should’ve lost control completely. I don’t get how you didn’t.”

“Maybe I’m just better at handling myself than you think,” Joong said smoothly, but the smirk tugging at his lips only made Pond’s blood boil more.

*Better at handling himself?* Yeah, right. If he was so controlled, they wouldn’t be stuck in this situation to begin with.

Pond swore to himself—one way or another, he was going to make Joong eat those words.

Chapter Text

Som lingered for a little while longer, her voice softer as she spoke to Joong. “I should go,” she murmured, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “But don’t forget—you owe me. Come by later, okay?”

Joong, still leaning against the wall with that infuriatingly calm expression, shrugged. “I don’t have time for that.”

Som pouted, though there was a teasing edge to her voice. “You’re always so busy. What, too tired now?”

Pond rolled his eyes behind the curtain, gripping his phone tighter. Yeah, maybe because someone nearly broke me, he thought bitterly.

Just as he was about to tune them out, something else caught his attention—soft murmuring, the faint rustle of clothing, and then…

A kiss.

His stomach twisted.

The sound was unmistakable—the quiet press of lips meeting, followed by the softest hint of a moan from Som.

They’re seriously doing this right now?

Pond clenched his fists under the blanket, irritation bubbling hot beneath his skin. They didn’t even have the decency to wait until he wasn’t there. Shameless.

The next soft sound from Som—something between a hum and a sigh—was the final straw.

Pond shoved the curtain aside, his irritation bubbling over as the sound of Som’s soft moan echoed through the room.

“Seriously?” he snapped, glaring at the pair. “Can’t you two wait until I’m *not* here? Or is this some new exhibitionist thing?”

Joong, as usual, didn’t flinch. His expression remained relaxed, but there was a spark of amusement in his dark eyes. Som, on the other hand, jumped slightly, startled by his outburst.

“Pond?” Her voice was laced with confusion as she turned to face him. “What are you doing here?”

Pond rolled his eyes, forcing himself to sound as nonchalant as possible. “I *live* here, remember? Roommates? Or did Joong forget to mention that while you two were too busy swapping saliva?”

Som’s brows furrowed, her confusion deepening. “Wait—you’re his roommate?”

“Unfortunately,” Pond bit out, shooting Joong a glare.

Joong only leaned against the wall, his lips curling into a faint smirk. “Relax, princess. No one’s forcing you to stay.”

Pond’s blood boiled at the nickname. “As if I’d stay here by choice, asshole.”

Their bickering only seemed to make Som more curious. Her eyes narrowed slightly as she shifted her gaze between the two of them. “Wait a minute…” Her voice trailed off, suspicion creeping into her tone.

Pond’s heart thudded painfully in his chest.

Joong must have sensed it—he always did—because his smirk deepened. “What?” he drawled, tilting his head. “Something on your mind, Som?”

Som hesitated for a beat before she spoke again. “You said the medical team told you someone… volunteered during your rut.” She glanced back at Pond, her expression growing sharper. “It wasn’t—”

“No!” Pond blurted, panic flashing through him. His face burned with heat as he shook his head far too quickly. “Of course not! Don’t be ridiculous!”

Joong chuckled softly under his breath, the sound low and infuriating. “Why are you freaking out?” he teased. “Got something to hide?”

“Shut up,” Pond hissed, his pulse racing.

But Som wasn’t letting it go. Her eyes widened as realization dawned, the pieces falling into place too easily. “Wait… Oh my God.” She stared at Pond in disbelief. “*It was you.*”

Pond froze.

His breath hitched in his throat, and for a second, he thought his heart might stop altogether. His legs felt weak, and panic curled hot and tight in his stomach.

“No—” He shook his head again, more desperate this time. “You’ve got it all wrong—”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Som’s voice trembled slightly, torn between disbelief and something like betrayal. “You—you spent his rut with him, and you didn’t say a word?”

Pond’s mouth went dry.

“I—I didn’t—” His words tangled on his tongue, and no matter how much he tried to deny it, the truth hung heavy in the air.

Som took a step closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. “But… he didn’t claim you?”

The question made Pond’s stomach twist painfully.

Joong’s voice cut in smoothly before Pond could even form a response. “No,” he said simply, as if it wasn’t a big deal. “I didn’t.”

Joong just smiled, like he was enjoying every second of his humiliation.

Som, however, didn’t seem as amused. She shook her head, still trying to process everything. “I don’t understand… That shouldn’t be possible. If your instincts were that strong, there’s no way you wouldn’t—”

“It’s not that complicated,” Joong interrupted smoothly. “Maybe I just didn’t *want* to claim him. Is that so hard to believe?”

His words stung more than Pond wanted to admit.

Som stared at him for a long moment, searching his face as if she didn’t quite believe him. But eventually, she let out a soft breath, her shoulders relaxing slightly. “I guess… if you’re sure,” she murmured, though a hint of doubt lingered in her voice.

Joong’s expression softened just a little, and his voice dropped to something warmer. “I’m sure. Don’t stress about it, okay?”

Som sighed and nodded. “Alright… But we’re talking later,” she said firmly. “Don’t avoid me this time.”

“I won’t,” Joong promised, his voice gentler than before.

Pond hated how soft he was with her.

As Som turned toward the door, Joong followed her, leaning in slightly. Their voices were quieter now, but not quiet enough.

“You really should’ve told me,” she murmured, her tone lingering with something heavier—something Pond couldn’t quite place.

“I know,” Joong said softly.

And then, before leaving, she pressed a kiss to his cheek—soft, lingering—like Pond wasn’t still standing there.

Pond clenched his fists, his stomach churning with a mixture of emotions he couldn’t untangle.

Without thinking, he coughed loudly, forcing a mocking edge into his voice. “Geez, if you’re gonna make out, at least do it outside. Some of us actually have taste.”

Joong turned back, his smirk returning in full force. “Jealous?”

“In your dreams,” Pond snapped, but his heart was still pounding—too fast, too loud—and he knew Joong could hear it.

And the worst part?

Som knew now. And there was no way Pond could undo that.

Pond was tense—too tense—his whole body rigid as his thoughts spiraled out of control. His heart pounded painfully in his chest, and a cold sweat clung to the back of his neck.

How could this happen?

It wasn’t supposed to be like this. His image—his reputation—everything was on the line. What would people say when they found out? That he was a liar? A hypocrite? The entire campus knew how much he hated Joong. He made sure of it. And now…

If anyone—especially his friends—discovered he had spent Joong’s rut with him, they would never let him live it down.

His stomach twisted. His vision blurred slightly. He couldn’t breathe.

They would call him a horny bastard—a joke. All his pride, all his careful work to maintain his image would shatter overnight. And worst of all… they’d never believe him if he said it wasn’t his choice. Not when Joong was involved.

Pond felt his chest tighten painfully, his hands trembling as his panic crept higher. His eyes burned with the threat of tears, but he bit his lip harshly—he wouldn’t cry. Not because of Joong. Not ever.

“Relax.”

The sudden voice cut through his spiraling thoughts like a blade, and Pond nearly jumped out of his skin.

He whipped around, eyes wide, to see Joong leaning against the doorway. His arms were crossed over his chest, but his gaze was sharp—too sharp—like he could see everything Pond was thinking.

“W-What?” Pond’s voice cracked slightly, heart hammering against his ribs.

Joong pushed off the frame, stepping closer. His scent—warm and steady—was everywhere. “I said, relax. Som’s not gonna tell anyone.” His tone was smooth, calm—too calm—as if the whole situation wasn’t a big deal.

Pond stared at him, blood rushing in his ears. His fists clenched tightly as anger surged through his fear. How did he know?

“How do you know that?” Pond snapped, the words tumbling out harsher than intended. His panic made it impossible to hold back. “You—you just think she’ll keep her mouth shut because you told her to? She’s your girlfriend, not your servant!”

Joong tilted his head, amusement flashing in his eyes. “Jealous?”

“Screw you!” Pond’s face burned with frustration. “You don’t get it! If this gets out, I’m done. People will think I—” He stopped himself, teeth sinking into his bottom lip. No. No one could ever know.

Joong sighed, running a hand through his hair, his usual arrogance softening for once. “She won’t tell, Pond. I made sure of it.”

The certainty in his voice made Pond’s stomach twist again—but this time, it wasn’t fear.

“You—” Pond swallowed, struggling to keep his voice steady. “You’re so… arrogant. What makes you so sure?”

Joong stepped closer—too close—until Pond had to tilt his head up to meet his gaze. “Because she knows it wasn’t supposed to happen,” he said quietly. “And she knows I’d never… claim you without a choice.”

His words hung heavy in the air, and for a fleeting second, Pond couldn’t speak—couldn’t breathe.

For all the things Joong was—an arrogant bastard, a rival, a nightmare—he wasn’t lying. Not about this.

But that didn’t make it easier to believe.

“Why do you care?” Pond muttered, his voice raw. “Why are you even—”

Joong’s eyes softened—just a little. “I don’t want you freaking out every time you look at me. It’s exhausting.”

Pond hated how that made something in his chest ache.

“Whatever,” he muttered, turning sharply on his heel to leave. “Just… keep your mouth shut, Joong.”

The next morning, **Pond woke up feeling sore—** but at least it wasn’t as unbearable as yesterday. He stretched carefully, wincing a little as a dull ache pulsed through his lower body. **He could manage.** Probably.

The sound of running water caught his attention. **Joong.** He was already awake—**in the bathroom.**

Pond swallowed hard, anxiety creeping in. Today, they had class. Which meant **facing everyone.** His friends. **Jeff.** The thought made his stomach twist. What would he even say? **How could he explain this?**

Before he could think it through, his body moved on its own. **He needed to freshen up.** His mind was too crowded with panic to care that **Joong** was still inside.

Without knocking, **Pond pushed the bathroom door open.**

Joong was leaning over the sink, shirtless, brushing his teeth with his usual **annoyingly perfect** posture. His hair was still damp, and despite everything, **he looked effortlessly calm.**

As soon as their eyes met through the mirror, **Joong’s gaze sharpened.**

“What?” Joong asked, his voice muffled by the toothbrush as he tilted his head slightly.

Pond scowled, heart pounding. “I—need to use the bathroom.”

Joong spit out the foam, wiping his mouth with a towel before turning fully to face him. **That smirk—** that same annoying smirk—curled on his lips. “Then use it. What’s the problem?”

Pond’s face burned. **“The problem is you!”**

Joong raised an eyebrow, stepping aside just enough to let him pass. “I’m not stopping you, princess. Unless you’re shy?” His tone dripped with mockery.

Pond shoved past him, trying to ignore the **warmth of Joong’s skin** brushing against his arm. “I’m not shy—**you** are just… irritating.”

“Aw, so sweet,” Joong drawled, leaning against the wall. “You could’ve waited instead of barging in, you know. Or are you that eager to see me first thing in the morning?”

Pond glared at him as he slammed the door shut behind him, heart thumping so hard it echoed in his ears.

**This is going to be a long day.**

After freshening up, **Pond** pulled himself together and headed to the kitchen. His muscles still ached, but he could manage—he wasn’t about to let **Joong** see him struggling.

He slapped together a quick burger for himself—**simple, basic, enough to keep him from starving.** But when he glanced to the side, **Joong** was already making one too. **Of course.** And somehow, **his** burger looked more delicious—perfectly toasted bun, melted cheese oozing out just right. **Show-off.**

They ate in silence, the tension **thick** between them. Every now and then, Pond could feel **Joong’s** gaze flick toward him, but he ignored it—**mostly**.

When Pond stood up to leave, **Joong’s** voice cut through the air.

“Where do you think you’re going?”

Pond scowled, glaring down at him. “Class, obviously.”

Joong leaned back in his chair, a lazy smirk curling on his lips. “Bet you can’t walk that far. It’s at least **300 meters** away. Or—” His voice dropped, smooth and taunting. “You want everyone to get suspicious?”

Pond froze, jaw clenching. **Damn him.** As much as he hated to admit it, **Joong had a point.** If anyone saw him limping—or worse, if someone guessed—**his life would be over.**

“Mind your own business,” Pond snapped, even as his feet stayed rooted in place.

Joong chuckled under his breath, clearly enjoying this. “Suit yourself. But when people start asking why you’re walking funny, don’t blame me.”

Pond hissed out a curse under his breath but didn’t move. **He couldn’t.** And that only made him hate **Joong** more.

Joong didn’t ask—he just grabbed Pond and lifted him onto his back as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

“Hey—what the hell?!” Pond hissed, squirming in protest. His legs wrapped around Joong’s waist instinctively while his arms clung to his shoulders. “Put me down, you idiot!”

“Stop moving,” Joong muttered, tightening his grip as he walked toward the college. “Unless you want everyone to see how sore you are.”

Pond’s face burned with humiliation. “I’m *not* sore!” he snapped, though the slight ache in his thighs said otherwise.

Joong huffed a dry laugh. “Yeah? Then walk.”

Pond gritted his teeth, but instead of answering, he buried his face against the back of Joong’s neck. The last thing he wanted was to be seen like this—vulnerable, clinging to **Joong** of all people.

When they reached the edge of the campus, Pond lifted his head, glancing around nervously. “Okay, put me down,” he muttered, his voice sharp.

Joong didn’t argue. Without a word, he bent slightly and let Pond slide off his back. The second Pond’s feet touched the ground, Joong straightened and shoved his hands into his pockets, already heading toward the building without even looking back.

Pond stood there for a moment, confused and a little breathless. **What’s his problem?**

“Pond!”

His stomach dropped. **Oh no.**

When he turned around, Fort was already sprinting toward him, with Dunk not far behind. Up, Jeff, and Perth trailed behind, all of them looking way too curious.

“There you are!” Fort practically tackled him into a tight hug. “Where the hell have you been, man? You ghosted us!”

Before Pond could answer, Dunk joined in, wrapping an arm around his shoulder. “Yeah! You didn’t even text. We thought you died or something!”

“I—I was sick,” Pond blurted, heart hammering in his chest. “In the hospital room. I didn’t have time to tell anyone.”

“Hospital?!” Up’s eyes widened as he reached them. “What happened? Are you okay now?”

“I’m fine,” Pond insisted, trying to sound casual. “Just—uh, a little fever. Nothing serious.”

“Why didn’t you tell us, dumbass?” Fort pouted, shaking him lightly. “We would’ve visited!”

Pond forced a laugh. “Didn’t want to bother anyone.”

Up tilted his head, staring a little too closely. “Still, it’s weird. You and **Joong** both disappearing at the same time?”

Pond froze. His heart slammed against his ribs. “What does he have to do with me?” he snapped, too quickly.

Fort raised an eyebrow. “Relax. No one’s accusing you of shacking up with him or anything.”

Pond’s stomach twisted violently. “I—I just got sick, okay? Why are you making it a big deal?”

They stared at him for a beat too long before Perth snickered. “Chill, Pond. You’re acting weird.”

“Whatever,” Pond muttered, pulling out of Fort’s hold. “Let’s just go to class before we’re late.”

He tried to keep his head down as they walked, but the whole time, his skin prickled with anxiety. And when they stepped into the classroom, his gaze couldn’t help but flick toward **Joong**, who was already lounging in his seat like nothing had happened.

Their eyes met briefly, and Joong’s mouth curled into a faint, knowing smirk.

Pond scowled, his fists clenching at his sides. **Asshole.**

He was going to survive this. No one was ever going to find out.

At least, that’s what he told himself.

After class, Pond finally made it back to his shared dorm, shutting the door behind him with a sigh of relief. For once, Joong wasn’t there—probably off doing his usual extra training—and the silence was a blessing.

**Thank God.** He didn’t know how he managed to get through the day without anyone noticing how weird he was acting.

The moment class ended, he had ducked into an empty lecture hall to avoid his friends, waiting until the coast was clear before slipping out unnoticed. His legs still ached faintly with every step, but at least he made it back without drawing attention.

Kicking off his shoes, he dropped onto his bed, stretching out with a groan. Finally—**peace.**

He let his eyes drift shut, hoping for a nap. But just as his body began to relax—

**Knock, knock, knock.**

Pond groaned in frustration, dragging a pillow over his face. **Who the hell is that?**

His first thought was his friends—maybe Fort had figured out he was hiding something and came to interrogate him. With an annoyed sigh, he pushed himself off the bed and trudged to the door.

When he swung it open, his breath caught in his throat.

It wasn’t Fort. Or Dunk. Or any of his nosy friends.

It was **Som**.

Pond blinked in surprise, heart thudding painfully. Why was she here? What did she want?

“Uh… Joong’s not here,” he blurted out immediately, gripping the doorframe. “He’s at training or something.”

“I’m not here for Joong,” Som said softly, her voice calm but unreadable. “I came to talk to you.”

Pond swallowed hard, his throat suddenly dry. **Why… me?**

For a split second, panic surged through his veins. **Did she know?**

Without realizing it, he stepped back, allowing her to enter. His pulse pounded louder with each step she took inside.

As he closed the door behind her, his hands felt clammy. He tried to keep his face neutral, but inside, his stomach twisted with nerves.

“What… what do you want to talk about?” he asked, trying to sound casual.

Som turned to face him, her eyes sharp and curious. “I want to ask you something,” she said, her tone light—but there was an edge underneath.

Pond’s heart skipped a beat. This couldn’t be good.

Som leaned casually against the doorframe, her sharp gaze never leaving Pond’s face. The air in the room felt heavier with each passing second, pressing down on him like a weight he couldn’t shake.

Som took a slow glance around the dorm, her arms crossed loosely over her chest as she turned back to face Pond. Her lips curled into a faint, almost amused smile—a smile that immediately made Pond’s skin prickle with unease.

“So…” she started, dragging the word out as if savoring it. “You’re the one who spent Joong’s rut with him, huh?”

Pond stiffened, every muscle in his body going rigid. “I—I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he snapped, a little too quickly.

Som let out a soft, mocking laugh, tilting her head as if she found his denial entertaining. “Come on, Pond. Don’t play dumb.” She took a step closer, her heels clicking softly against the floor. “I’m not an idiot. I know it was you.”

“You know…” she drawled, her lips curling into a teasing smile. “Even I think you’re kinda pretty. Beautiful, even.” Her eyes swept over him slowly, making Pond’s stomach twist uncomfortably. “So… what’s the problem, huh? Is there something wrong with you that we don’t know?”

Pond’s breath caught in his throat, his face burning with humiliation. “T-There’s nothing wrong with me,” he snapped, fists curling at his sides.

Som laughed softly, tilting her head as if she were truly considering the idea. “Really? Because I can’t think of any other reason why Joong wouldn’t claim you. It’s weird, isn’t it? Alphas in rut lose control. They bite first, think later,especially one as aggressive as Joong—can’t hold back during a rut, even with claiming suppressants. But Joong didn’t even take any, and still… nothing?” She tilted her head, feigning pity. “Wow. Guess you really didn’t do it for him, huh?”

Heat flared across Pond’s face, a mixture of shame and anger curling in his stomach. “Shut up,” he hissed, but it only seemed to amuse her more.

She sighed, pushing off the doorframe and brushing imaginary dust off her skirt. “But don’t worry,” she said, her tone turning cooler. “I’m not going to tell anyone.”

Pond blinked in surprise, the tension in his chest tightening. “W-What?”

Som rolled her eyes as if it should’ve been obvious. “Please. I actually care about Joong’s image. If people found out he spent his entire rut with you and still didn’t mark you? It’d be embarrassing for him.” Her smile sharpened again. “And for you, obviously.”

Pond swallowed hard, his palms growing clammy.

“You better not tell anyone either,” she added, her voice dropping to a warning whisper. “Whatever happened between you two—if anyone else finds out, it’s only going to make things worse. For both of you.”

Pond felt his knees tremble slightly, but he forced himself to lift his chin. “I wouldn’t tell anyone,” he said, biting out the words.

“Good.” Som gave a satisfied nod. “Just make sure you keep it that way.”

Without another glance, she turned and opened the door. But just before stepping out, she glanced back with one final smirk.

“Seriously though… beautiful or not, you must be pretty worthless if even Joong didn’t want you.”

The door shut softly behind her, leaving Pond alone in the quiet room—his heart pounding, his vision blurring with a mix of rage and shame.