Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Jongwoo stared up at the fancy apartment building in awe, having never lived or even been in such a tower of a building before, he couldn’t help being impressed. He double and triple checked that the address of the building matched with the address Jieun had sent him, stunned each time that he really was at the right place. 

Wow. I know Jieun makes a lot as a neurosurgeon, but this place is unreal. No wonder she always tells me not to worry about paying her back.

Jongwoo grabbed the handle of his beaten up suitcase and rolled it behind him as he headed inside. The doorman smiled at him politely as he opened the door, but the security guard at the front desk eyed him suspiciously.

”Name?”

”Yoon Jongwoo. My girl—“

”Ah, Miss Min’s Omega,” the security guard interrupted. “Of course. She told me you would be moving in today. Would you like me to help you with your bags?”

I have a name, asshole. 

”No. That’s okay. I got it.”

He nodded. “Call me, Mr. Park. Welcome to Eden, Mr. Yoon.”

“Thank you, Mr. Park.” Jongwoo said before politely excusing himself. He walked to the elevators and called for the first one he stepped near. The doors opened after a moment and he stepped in, flinching when he turned around and saw a man standing outside the elevator. 

The man smiled. He smelled like an Alpha.

Jongwoo pulled his suitcase out of the way so the man could get on. I didn’t even sense him… Jongwoo reached over and hit the button for the third floor. 

The man reached to hit the button for his own floor. ”Oh, do you live on the third floor as well?” The man said, his hand still half raised to push a button.

”Yes. I’m moving in today.”

”303?” The man guessed.

”How’d you know?”

”I live in 304. There’s only five apartments per floor so I know everyone and Miss Min mentioned her boyfriend would be moving in.”

Yet she’s never mentioned you.

Jongwoo nodded with a polite smile. “That’s me.” 

”You’re quite handsome. Or maybe, pretty? Both really. It’s no wonder Miss Min has been fussing over getting her apartment ready for your arrival. I would do the same if I had someone like you to prepare for.”

Jongwoo blinked at him. Is he…hitting on me? “Uh, thanks.”

“I hope you like it here. This building is still fairly new so you shouldn’t have any problems and there’s a pool and an adjoining cafe on the rooftop, as well as a gym on the lobby floor if you’re ever looking for something to do.” 

“I’ll keep that in mind.” Jongwoo said politely. Are you the manager here or something? Why pitch this place to me like I’m not already moving in? 

They both went quiet and it thankfully wasn’t long before the doors opened on their floor.

Jongwoo allowed 304 to get off first, keeping a slight distance as they walked down the hall in the same direction. 

“I hope to see you around, 303,” 304 said as they reached Jieun’s apartment first.

Jongwoo forced a smile and a nod. I hope not all of the neighbors are as chatty as you.

He entered the code to unlock the door and went inside quickly, wary of being in a new place. There was a small hallway at the front door with a built in cubicle for shoes. Jongwoo took off his shoes and grabbed the slippers on top of the shelf—several unused pairs on top, all black with an elegant ‘E’ embroidered in gold on each one. Must’ve come with the place.

Jongwoo moved into the apartment itself and was blown away by how big it was—to his left was a spacious living room with a couch big enough for about eight people, a big glass coffee table, a stylish black chair with a matching ottoman, and a giant flatscreen TV. A plethora of soft looking blankets and pillows were spread around the furniture, and Jongwoo felt tempted to test them out, but he wanted to explore more.

He turned to his right and found a decent sized kitchen with a double wide fridge, two sinks, one of which was built into the island in the center, two coffee makers—one a keurig, the other a traditional coffee maker, and fancy looking electric stove. Wow, Jieun’s last place had such a small kitchen that only one of us could fit in there at a time. 

Jongwoo walked over to the dining room that was separated from the living room by a small stretch of empty space broken by three large marble steps. The table was big enough for six people, the chairs white and cushioned, standing out against the dark blue that coated the walls of the apartment. Jongwoo took one look around and went to find the bedroom.

A king sized bed awaited him and he took off his backpack before jumping into it. His face landed in the pillows and he groaned because of how soft everything was to his tired body. He caught the scent of laundry detergent and smiled. She must’ve just washed everything for me. 

Jongwoo pulled his phone from his pocket and turned onto his back. 

| I made it. This place is amazing

🤩 do you know when you’ll be home? |

Jieun texted back immediately.

| I don’t think I’ll make it until really late,

I’ve been asked to assist with a surgery later 😔

I’m sorry, I really wanted to be there for your

first day at home. 😅 |

| But the fridge is stocked and there’s snacks

in the cabinet closet to the coffee maker 💕|

| Love you, baby. 💕💕 | 

| Love you too 💙 |

Jongwoo tossed his phone to the side and looked at the analog clock on the bedside table. It was only 4PM. Too early to sleep…I guess I’ll unpack, shower and make something to eat…maybe watch TV. 

He forced himself to get up from comfort and grabbed his suitcase. It didn’t take long to tuck away all his clothes, Jieun had marked everywhere he could put his stuff with sticky notes, including the space in the closet where he could tuck his suitcase. Once that was done he took his laptop from his backpack and put it on the desk with his charger. He couldn’t resist the urge to sit at the desk she’d bought for him and try to write.

He made little progress in his story and after three hours of struggling, he called it quits and went to make dinner, deciding showering could come last. He made enough food for Jieun and watched a true crime video on the living room TV before going to gather his things for a shower. He paused after only a few steps inside the bedroom because his laptop was open to his novel. 

Didn’t I shut it down?

Jongwoo frowned, but he couldn’t quite remember. He walked over and exited out of everything before turning off his laptop and closing it. I must be more tired than I realized.

+++++++++++

A few hours later, Jongwoo woke up and he couldn’t fathom why. He looked around the room but only saw shadows everywhere, the moon casting a soft light in the room. Something about the closet caught his eye but he couldn’t quite place it. The shadows seemed…darker there somehow.

He sat up and stared, trying to reach for a piece of information alluding him—something he’d vaguely noted about the closet when he’d come to get his clothes. 

”Oppa, you’re awake.”

Jongwoo blinked sleepily and turned his attention to the door as it opened. It was Jieun. She appeared freshly showered and wrapped only in a towel. “When did you get home.”

”Uh, like an hour ago? I ate the food you left me then I took a shower. I was hoping to slip into bed without disturbing you. Are you alright? Did you have a nightmare?”

Jongwoo shook his head and held his arms out for her. She smiled and walked into his arms, giggling when he pulled her on top of him and fell back onto the mattress with her. “How was your day?” 

“Exhausting,” Jieun answered with a heavy sigh. 

”Yeah?”

”Yeah…how was your day, Oppa?”

”It was nice. Uneventful. I just stayed in the apartment…Oh, and I met the man in 304.”

”Mr. Seo?”

”I guess so, I didn’t catch his name. He was a little weird.”

”Weird? Weird how?”

”I dunno, he just…seemed really talkative.”

”Is that a bad thing?”

”No…maybe I just wasn’t in the mood for it today,” Jongwoo said. 

She hummed softly and kissed his cheek. 

“I missed you,” Jongwoo told her softly. 

“I missed you too.” She said, staring down at him with a fond smile.

”Yeah? Show me how much.”

Jieun kissed him, softly at first but growing greedier as they found their rhythm. They hadn’t been intimate since his last heat so he was a bit impatient and it wasn’t long before he found himself in between her legs, her hand curled tight in his hair. 

Jongwoo buried his tongue deep inside her cunt, feeling as her penis hardened and left the soft folds of her body. He continued to eat her pussy while his hand wrapped around her erection and jerked her off roughly.

”Jongwoo-ah…” she moaned.

She wettened in his mouth and on his face and he licked her from her deep inside to the tip of her cock before sucking the tip into his mouth. He slipped two fingers inside her with ease and kept his mouth on her until she came and clenched around his fingers. 

Jongwoo climbed on top of her and took hold of her dick, lining it up with his leaking hole before sinking down on her girth, a lingering groan leaving him as he took down every inch of her like the good little omega he was. She arched her back, over sensitive after just coming, but she didn’t make him get off. He kissed her as he started riding her and she whimpered.

Jongwoo smirked and swirled his hips, earning a low groan. After a few minutes, Jieun hardened inside of him and sat up. Jongwoo loved this part—the part where she took control and made him feel deliriously good. 

Jieun rolled them so she was on top. “Get on all fours.”

Jongwoo felt her slip out as he turned around to do as she said, missing the feel of her in that brief moment. He felt her fingers slip inside him first, fucking him gently before she slipped her tongue inside, licking and tonguing inside of him, eating his slick greedily—like it belonged only to her. And it did. A burst of slick overflowed and she pulled away with a low chuckle. 

“Do you like it that much when my tongue is inside you, baby?”

Jongwoo hummed in agreement. “But I like it better when your cock is there.”

”Should I give it to you then?”

“Please.”

Jieun pushed inside him roughly, aware he didn’t mind it, and started fucking him hard and deep. He groaned and reached back for her hand but instead she wrapped her hand around his dick and jerked him off. He dropped his head between his shoulders and grabbed onto the sheets, losing himself in pleasure.

Neither of them lasted long, Jongwoo coming first, then Jieun, her knot popping inside of him and keeping them bound together. Jieun guided Jongwoo onto his side and hugged him from behind, kissing at his shoulder.

“One day I’ll leave my claim right here,” she said.

Jongwoo kissed her arm. “Your parents still haven’t changed their minds?”

”Well, my mom has, but dad’s still threatening to disown me if I claim you. Mom still suggests that I get you pregnant first and let the baby wear him down.”

“What if that doesn’t work?”

Jieun hummed. “I guess I’ll just have to disown my dad and support our family myself.”

He wanted to ask why they couldn’t just do that now, but he didn’t. He knew exactly why. Her father owned the hospital she worked at and if he followed through on his threat, he might transfer or fire her outright, and since he was well connected and donated to a lot of hospitals, he could block her from getting work.

“Who knows, maybe my next novel will do even better and I can support us instead.” Jongwoo said.

Jieun hugged him tighter. “You make the money with your books and we both can stay home and raise a few pups together.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Jongwoo agreed. 

Jieun shifted her hips suddenly, rubbing against his prostate. “Should we start on the first one now instead of waiting for your heat?” Her pheromones spiked and Jongwoo groaned at the scent. 

Jongwoo pressed back against her. “I think so.”

Perhaps if the two of them were more perceptive, they would’ve noticed that the shadow in the closet had disappeared and that the moon usually shone through the shutters of the door, leaving a pattern of light on the wall inside. 

Jongwoo woke up alone the next day, hardly surprising as he woke up at 2PM. He took a shower, gathered his things and went to the rooftop. He intended to write as much as he could about the next arc for the serial killer pianist from his previous novel—a book that did decently well and while he wasn’t a famous, rich author, he earned enough to survive comfortably. Not as comfortably as Jieun, but still, he was luckier than some in his field. 

The rooftop was nice and clean with plenty of places to relax comfortably in or out of the shade without being too close to the splash zone around the large swimming pool in the center. He bought an iced americano before picking out a lounge chair to work in. There wasn’t a crowd of people but there were quite a few scattered around the rooftop.

Jongwoo pulled out his laptop and pulled up his novel, reading through the parts he had written the day before. He hated most of it so he gutted it down to the parts he wanted to rework later on.

“303.” 

Jongwoo looked up from his laptop. It was the man from the elevator. He wore only black swim trunks, black square shades, black sandals, and he carried a brown tote bag—his skin was pale and his build was slim but he had some muscle to him, defined lines on his stomach and arms. Scars too. A lot. “304.”

”Mind if I sit here?”

Very much actually.

”Not at all.”

304 set his bag on the end of the chair and sat down. He rummaged through it and pulled out a pen, sticky notes, and a thick book on forensics. Jongwoo noticed there were scars on his back too. 

Jongwoo turned his attention back to his computer. I shouldn’t stare…but how did he get so many scars? And why is he casually reading a book on forensics? Is he a cop or a forensic analyst or something?

“What are you working on?” 

“My novel.” Jongwoo answered, not looking at him.

”Oh, you’re a writer?” 

“I am.” 

“Have you been published?”

”Yes. Have you heard of ‘Melody of the Depraved’?”

“I haven’t, but I should add it to my list.” 

“Let me know what you think of it if you read it,” Jongwoo said. He looked at 304 as he added, “I’m actually working on the sequel right now, and I don’t mean to be rude, but would you mind letting me get back to it?”

304 didn’t seem offended, rather amused. “Of course, my apologies…I’ll leave you to your work.”

Jongwoo nodded and turned back to his laptop screen. 304 cracked open his book and Jongwoo was able to focus again. Thirty minutes passed before a sound drew Jongwoo’s attention—304 uncapping his sunscreen and applying it to his arms and face, Jongwoo watching him. He lost the sentence that he’d come up with and couldn’t find it again. 304 caught him staring and flashed a smile. 

“Would you mind putting some on my back for me?” 304 asked.

Damn and we had a nice comfortable silence going too…well, I guess it wouldn’t hurt to move around a little.

“Sure.” Jongwoo set his laptop on the chair and stood up, taking the sunscreen from 304. He squirted the sunscreen on 304’s back and started rubbing it in, growing more curious about the scars underneath his fingertips, but he didn’t ask, instead he said, “Is swimming why you’re surprisingly muscular?” 

304 chuckled. “Yes, among other things.”

Jongwoo continued rubbing lotion into his skin, amazed by each new line of muscle.  

A man with a similar haircut to 304 approached them just as Jongwoo handed Moon Jo back his sunscreen. He smelled neutral like a Beta.

“Jagiya,” 304 greeted. “Do you need something?”

‘Jagiya’ seemed unhappy, his gaze cutting from 304 to Jongwoo. “You’re Miss Min’s Omega, aren’t you?”

I have a name, asshole.

Jongwoo nodded awkwardly. “I’m Yoon—“

“I know Omegas are easy, but shouldn’t one with an Alpha be less willing to put their hands on another?” 

“What?” Jongwoo asked, dumbfounded. 

“You still smell like sex. Are you in heat or do you just get wet for any Alpha?” 

“You shouldn’t be so rude to our neighbor, Ki Hyeok,” 304 said. In that moment, Jongwoo was hit with a wave of pheromones—an Alpha’s domineering scent mixed with the scent of something sharp and pleasant. 

Jongwoo felt his body react—becoming wet with slick in an instant. Shit. This hasn’t happened in response to an Alpha since I met Jieun.

Ki Hyeok had the opposite reaction, taking a step back from 304. “You’re right. I’m sorry.” He left in a hurry. Jongwoo could smell his fear linger in the air. 

Jongwoo was helpless to the way his body buzzed with electricity, on edge because of the pheromones still radiating from 304. More slick wet his hole and Jongwoo looked around nervously—seeing heads turns in his direction with interest. 

304 turned to look at him too and his heart beat faster. 

“Ah. I didn’t mean to trigger that reaction, Jagiya,”

Jongwoo swallowed his fear and embarrassment. “I—It’s fine, but…do you mind walking me home? I’ve been told my scent is hard to resist. And I don’t trust anyone here.”

”But you trust me?” There was a dangerous lilt in his voice, a dangerous glint in his dark eyes.

Jongwoo shifted uneasily, feeling the stares on his face. ”Not exactly. You’re just the easiest to report if you attack me because I know where you live.”

304 smiled. “What an interesting answer…Of course I’ll walk you home, but can I at least know your name?”

Jongwoo hesitated, still nervous, but ultimately he didn’t see a reason not to let his neighbor know his name. “I’m Yoon Jongwoo.”

”Jongwoo…what a lovely name. I’m Seo Moon Jo.” 

“Nice to meet you,” Jongwoo said as he turned around to save his work and close his laptop. 

“You too. I hope we can become good friends.” 

Jongwoo made a noncommittal hum as he stuffed his laptop into his backpack while Moon Jo stood up and gathered his own things. 

“Jongwoo.” 

He looked up. Moon Jo offered him a beach towel and Jongwoo’s face heated. I must’ve soaked through my pants. “Thanks,” he muttered. He wrapped the towel around his waist and zipped up his backpack before putting it on.

Moon Jo let him lead the way, walking behind him protectively. Heads turned in the cafe and Jongwoo refused to make eye contact, grateful for Moon Jo’s domineering pheromones keeping everyone in place. Jongwoo didn’t slow down until he was alone in the elevator with Moon Jo, keeping his distance and silently suffering due to the pheromones still radiating off the Alpha.

Why does he have to smell so damn good? I’m not usually affected by Alphas because their scent is unpleasant and triggers my flight or fight response but his…

”Are you alright? You’re glaring at me.” 

Jongwoo adjusted his face and clenched his fists at his side. “Sorry. I’m acting ungrateful, aren’t I? I’m just not used to having this reaction to an Alpha that isn’t Jieun.”

“Ah. So you like my scent then.”

”…It’s not unpleasant.” 

“What does it smell like to you?”

”Sharp and a little sweet. I can’t really place what it reminds me of.” 

“Fascinating. I’ve been told I smell like rotting flesh or blood by Betas and Omegas alike. Strange how we both smell different to only each other. Perhaps we’re True Mates.”

”…Or maybe it’s just a fluke.” Jongwoo said, shifting uncomfortably and clutching the towel around his waist tighter. 

“Maybe. But do you know what you smell like to me?” 

“Something sweet I’m sure.”

Moon Jo turned and closed the short distance between them, crowding into Jongwoo’s space until he was pressed against the wall of the elevator. ”To me, you smell crisp like apples, spicy like cinnamon and sweet like a pastry. You make my mouth water with the desire to consume you.” 

Jongwoo stared into his dark eyes, desire flaring through him and making him wet with more slick even as fear made his neck pulsate.

Moon Jo’s eyes shot down suddenly to his throat and he smiled. “Don't worry, Jagiya, I have more self control than those mutts on the rooftop. I only mean that I find your scent strangely intoxicating.”

Jongwoo felt unsettled by the admission. “I have a girlfriend, man. You can’t speak to me like that.”

”A girlfriend, but not a mate. Aside from that, is there anything stopping you from enjoying me right now?”

Jongwoo stared at him in shock. Did he really just say that? Jongwoo shoved Moon Jo away as the elevator doors opened and made a beeline for his apartment. He got inside quickly and double checked that it locked behind him before he went to the kitchen, pacing around. 

What the hell is wrong with that creep? 

“Crazy bastard. You think just because your scent doesn’t make me gag that I want to fuck you? I have a girlfriend, mate or not, she still means too much to me to just toss aside for some lunatic next door. Seriously, what the hell gives you the right to speak to me so boldly? Just because you’re an Alpha? I could rip you apart if I wanted to, asshole.” 

Jongwoo paced around for a few minutes until he remembered the reason why he’d had to come home in the first place. He put his stuff on the island and went to the bathroom to clean himself up, deciding a shower was the best method, remembering the dig made at him by 302. He wasn’t sure if he’d been bluffing just so he could call Jongwoo a whore to his face or not, but the wave of slick induced by Moon Jo’s pheromones was enough to scrub himself three times over.

Jongwoo woke up alone again the next day and when he checked his phone he had a message from Jieun explaining that she had been assigned to the ER to cover for someone last minute and asking him to call her when he woke up. He went to the kitchen to start up the coffee maker then went to the bathroom to freshen up and change his clothes. Once he was up and ready he called Jieun and went to the kitchen.

“Good morning, Oppa.” Jieun greeted. “I just wanted to hear your voice before I went to bed.”

Jongwoo smiled. “Why didn’t you come home then?”

”I’m too tired to drive. And I’m on call today so going home didn’t seem worth it.”

“You should sleep now that you’ve gotten what you want.”

”Just wanna talk a little longer. What are your plans for today?” She yawned as she asked. 

Jongwoo put the phone on the counter as he poured himself some coffee. “I don’t know. I think I might go to that Sunshine coffee place nearby and write.”

”Oh? Did you not like the rooftop?”

Jongwoo’s heart skipped. He wasn’t keen on explaining what had happened the day before because then he’d have to admit the scent of a different Alpha turned him on and he didn’t want to hurt her feelings. ”That weird neighbor was there.”

”Mr. Seo? What was so weird about him this time?”

”I don’t like the way he looks at me and…”

”And what?”

”He said my scent is irresistible.”

”Well…you’re an Omega and he’s an Alpha.”

Jongwoo quirked his brow. ”It’s more than that. He was flirting with me.”

”Are you sure you’re just not reading too much into it?”

Jongwoo frowned at her dismissive tone. “Yesterday he said, ‘You have a girlfriend but not a mate, aside from that what’s stopping you from enjoying me right now?’ if that’s not a move, what is?”

”He said that to you? Are you sure?” She sounded doubtful.

”Yes.”

”That doesn’t sound like, Mr. Seo…”

”What? Are you saying that I’m lying?” He put the coffee pot back in its place and started getting sugar. 

”No, I just wonder if your scent made him act a little crazy.”

Jongwoo felt sick. “So it’s my fault?”

”No, baby, I didn’t mean—“

“Is it my damn fault that my scent is like this? If you would just claim me already maybe other Alphas wouldn’t so casually hit on me or tell me they want to have sex with me!”

”Jongwoo—“

He hung up and tossed his phone on the counter. He covered his mouth with one hand and sunk down, squatting next to the cabinet. Did she really just say all that to me? How could she blame me like that? Like it’s my fault that my scent is still so strong?

Jongwoo took a moment to collect himself then went back to fixing his coffee. She just doesn’t understand what it’s like to be an Omega. She only knows what it’s like to have all the power in any situation she’s in.

But then, I’m the one that didn’t tell her everything…but still, it felt like she was blaming me…

Jongwoo drank his coffee as he whipped up a light breakfast that he ate while watching a true crime podcast on his phone. Then he grabbed his things, shoving them inside his backpack before leaving the apartment. It took less than ten minutes to reach the coffee shop, order an iced americano, and sit at a table near the front window. 

He pulled his laptop from his bag and started reworking some of the scenes that just hadn’t felt right when he’d thought about them in bed. He had only been there for around fifteen minutes when he heard a familiar voice greet him.

“303.”

Jongwoo’s blood ran cold, his gaze shooting up to meet familiar dark eyes. “304.”

”Come to get some writing done?” 

Jongwoo nodded. 

“Did I make you uncomfortable yesterday to the point that you couldn’t return to the rooftop today?”

”Clearly.” Jongwoo said, his irritation winning out over his fear.

Moon Jo’s lips twitched as if he wanted to smile. “My apologies. I could say it was because I’m an unmated Alpha and your scent was too alluring, but that’s a lame excuse, isn’t it?”

”Very lame.”

Moon Jo stepped closer, lowering his voice as he said, “I’m sorry for losing to my baser instincts yesterday. I’m usually unaffected by Omegas because I hate that sickly sweet scent they secrete, but you smelled like…well, anyway, I’ll try to respect you and your relationship from now on.” 

Jongwoo studied him, not quite believing him, but not able to place why. Still, he nodded. “Thank you, Mr. Seo.” 

“Call me Moon Jo.”

Jongwoo considered him for a moment then said, ”Alright, Moon Jo, I’ll accept your apology, but I would like to be alone for now.”

”I understand. I’ll leave you to your work.” 

Moon Jo got in line to order and Jongwoo made a point not to look over. Eventually he was able to focus again and was able to put the unwanted interaction aside. For ten minutes, at least, when an employee came up to his table.

“Here’s your chocolate strawberry cheesecake.”

Jongwoo frowned. “I didn’t order this.”

”The man you were talking to earlier ordered it for you. And he left this note.” She explained.

Jongwoo took the sticky note the worker handed him before she left. 

| Forgive me, Jagiya. |

Jongwoo scoffed. Respect my relationship my ass! Why does he keep calling me that? 

Jongwoo crumpled up the sticky note and tossed it into his open backpack before he went back to writing. He ignored the cheesecake for few minutes, his mind wandering as he tried to think of what to type next. His gaze landed on the cheesecake and he reluctantly picked up the fork on the plate and tried it. 

It was delicious. 

He huffed but scarfed down the rest of it and took a long sip of his americano to wash it down. I guess I'll accept his apology for now but I won't forget what he did or how he creepily calls for me like a lover.

+++++

Jongwoo went home around dinner time and was barely in his apartment when the doorbell rang. He turned around and opened the door to be greeted by a chicken delivery guy. 

“I didn’t order food.”

”Your girlfriend did.” He said, then reading off the receipt added, “She says she’s sorry and to check your phone.” 

Jongwoo accepted the chicken and the delivery guy left. He went back inside and set the food on the island. He checked his phone just as it buzzed with a new text.

| I'm sorry for what I said on the phone, baby.

I was wrong and I shouldn’t have said that.

Please forgive me 🥺🥺 I love you. I'll see you

in themorning. Text me if you need anything 💞💞 |

Jongwoo sighed. He was still angry about what she said but he was softened by the gesture. He didn't text back just to be petty, simply liking the message. His phone buzzed with a call from his agent and he answered it. 

"Hello."

"Please tell me you're in Seoul and ready for tomorrow." Chang Hyun said.

"I am." Jongwoo confirmed. "This is actually my third day in Seoul."

"This is why you're my favorite author."

Jongwoo chuckled. "Did that Webtoon author runaway again?"

"...If anyone asks you the answer is no, okay?"

Jongwoo clicked his tongue and shook his head. "Your company really should hire someone else so you don't have to pull double duty."

"My heart agrees with you but my wallet doesn't."

Jongwoo laughed. 

"Send me your address and I'll pick you up tomorrow at 10. We'll get you fed and styled and do a rehearsal at 12."

“Sounds good. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

”Okay, see you!” Chang Hyun replied cheerily. 

Jongwoo hung up and went to put the food in the kitchen. Chang Hyun was his best friend in the world. They’d met during their military service when some asshole had pulled Jongwoo onto his lap and told him he’d put a pup in his belly so he didn’t have to finish his service. Jongwoo had punched him square in the face and they’d fought but despite how scrappy Jongwoo was, he’d still needed the help Chang Hyun had offered. 

They’d become friends from that moment on and fate had reunited them professionally. Jongwoo was perpetually grateful to him for everything he’d done for him during those two years. He would be willing to step in and protect him from a creep like Moon Jo if Jongwoo needed him to, no questions asked. 

Once the food was put away, Jongwoo went to his room to put his laptop on his desk and charge his phone. When he tried to open the drawer where he’d put his charger it wouldn’t open and he had to fight with it for a full minute before it opened. Then, when he tried to close it, it got stuck, and he couldn’t get it to close again. “Well I’m not putting shit in there again.” 

After that, Jongwoo went to eat dinner alone in the kitchen while watching a crime drama on his phone. He tried not to feel lonely but it was hard when he had no one waiting for him to come home, and no one to talk to or even quietly enjoy a drama with as they ate. It’s only been a couple days. I’m sure it won’t always be like this. 

Jieun was in the kitchen when he woke up the next day but she didn’t look dead tired from working a long shift, she looked perfectly normal and alert. “Good morning,” she greeted, walking over to kiss his cheek with a steaming mug in her hand.

“Morning,” Jongwoo greeted. “Didn’t you just get off work?” 

”No, actually, I was able to get away around 3AM but I was too tired to drive home so I stayed with my coworker, Hana.”

Jongwoo thought for a second. “Ah, is that the one you stayed with while you were looking for a new place?”

”Yup, that’s her.”

Jongwoo nodded.

”There’s still some coffee if you want some.”

Jongwoo walked over to the cabinet to grab a mug. 

“What are your plans for today?” Jieun asked as she sat at the island with her own coffee.

“I have a book signing event at a small bookstore in Gangnam this afternoon.”

”Really? Why didn’t you tell me?”

”I did, but it was a few weeks ago so you probably just forgot.”

She smiled apologetically and reached over to squeeze his arm. “I’m sorry, baby. I’ve spent too much time in the operating room lately. I don’t know where my mind has been lately.”

He grabbed her hand and kissed the back of it. “It’s okay. I know you’re busy. I just miss you.” 

“I miss you too.” She kissed his hand and nuzzled her cheek against it. “But don’t worry, I’ll be here the whole week for your heat.”

”Yeah?”

”I was able to get time off.”

”Unless your dad suddenly forces you to go in.” Jongwoo said with a pout.

“Don’t worry so much, I made sure your OB-GYN only reports to me his time. Daddy has no way of knowing that your heat is coming.” 

“And yet I’m still nervous. You know how intense my heats are and I don’t want what happened last time to happen again.”

”Oppa, you know I don’t blame you for that.”

”But I—“

Jieun grabbed his face. “You couldn’t help yourself. It’s okay, baby. I’ve never been angry about what happened. You have to forgive yourself already.” 

But Jongwoo couldn’t. That incident made him feel sick—made him want to claw his own skin off. 

He nodded to appease her and accepted the kiss she gave him with bile in his throat. Strangely, he caught a whiff of her pheromones and his body started to relax, the bile dissipating unnaturally. He kissed her back, whining slightly when she teased him with her tongue. 

She pulled away after a moment and said, ”Just write as much as you can so you can take time off without feeling guilty, hm?” 

Jongwoo nodded, wiping his mouth. Damn it, she distracted me again. Why does she always dismiss what happened like this?

She kissed him again and stepped away. “I have to get going, I have a shift, but I hope your book signing goes well.”

”Thanks. Me too.”

Jieun grabbed her coffee and headed to the door. “Love you!” She called. 

“Love you too.” 

Jongwoo stared after her pitifully. I thought moving back in together would mean we could actually be together…I thought it meant we could finally talk about it…

+++++

Jongwoo’s book signing event included him reading the fan voted favorite chapter of his novel and answering questions. Though he was nervous, he got through it well, the energy in the room easy to feed off of and perfect to hide his nerves behind. The only part that felt truly awkward was the actual book signing where he had to talk one on one—most people were fine, but a few people were a little too passionate and they not only said inappropriate things but hit on him too. 

Still, he felt happy just having so many people there for his novel. 

Jongwoo looked down as one person left to grab a book and when he raised his head to greet the next person he tensed. “You…what are you doing here?”

Moon Jo smiled. “I came to get my new favorite author’s autograph.” 

“You read my book in two days?”

”I couldn’t seem to put it down once I started.”

Jongwoo softened a little at the compliment. He opened the book in his hand to the title page. “Who should I make it out to?” 

“Jagiya.”

Jongwoo shot him a glare. He ignored the request and signed it the way he preferred instead before handing it back to Moon Jo. “Thank you for your support.” 

Moon Jo smiled again. “Neighbors should always help each other.” He looked down at Jongwoo’s writing and read it aloud quietly. “To Moon Jo, thanks for being a fan but please quit stalking me, yours truly, Marlowe.” Moon Jo chuckled and stared at Jongwoo like he wanted to devour him.

”Please pay for your signed copy at the register,” Chang Hyun urged gently.

“Just one more question.” Moon Jo said, not so much as glancing in Chang Hyun’s direction. “Is your pen name a reference to the private investigator Philip Marlowe?”

Jongwoo blinked at him in surprise. “You know Raymond Chandler?”

“Of course. Your work felt very inspired by his so I couldn’t help but wonder if you chose that pen name as an homage.”

Jonhwoo perked up. “I did. Have you read all of his works?”

”I have.”

”What did you think of The Long Goodbye? I know some people say it’s inferior to Chandler’s other works but I really enjoyed it.“

”Me too. Though I understand it contains problematic elements that might put off new readers, I still consider it underrated.”

“I feel like problematic elements are a staple of older literature,” Jongwoo said. “But fiction should always be a place to explore one’s own psyche and it’s never quite as clean and unproblematic as some would like.”

“I agree. The human mind is a fascinating thing to explore to its deepest, darkest, depths. By chance, have you read The Metamorphosis?”

Jongwoo lit up. “It’s one of my favorites.”

Moon Jo smiled, but as he opened his mouth to speak, Chang Hyun interjected. 

”We need to keep the line moving.” Chang Hyun said politely.

Jongwoo realized then that he’d forgotten where he was and who exactly he’d been talking to.  

”I’ll be at the cafe next door if you want to continue this discussion, Mr. Marlowe.” Moon Jo said, a dangerous glint in his eyes.

Jongwoo nodded awkwardly. 

”Who was that?” Chang Hyun whispered as Moon Jo walked away. 

“My next door neighbor. Don’t mind him, he’s kind of strange.” 

They didn’t get to continue their conversation as another fan stepped up. 

+++++

Jongwoo stared at the cafe to his left, biting his lip in contemplation. It would be crazy to go, right? I mean he’s made it clear he wants me and he keeps showing up wherever I am…but no one around me likes to talk about literature unless it’s to ask me when my next book is getting published…and it’s not like there’s anyone waiting for me to come home. Plus, I already sent Chang Hyun home so…

The bibliophile in Jongwoo couldn’t resist the chance to talk about his favorite author. When he walked into the cafe he spotted Moon Jo instantly and his heart skipped—Moon Jo was wearing glasses and instead of the black long sleeved shirt he’d been wearing earlier, he was in a tight, white button up shirt with long sleeves.

He’s actually more handsome than I thought…

Jongwoo shook his head and went to order a coffee. After that was done, he walked over to join Moon Jo who appeared to be rereading his book. 

Moon Jo put down the book and smiled. “You came.” 

“Well, it seems we’ll be seeing a lot of each other from now on. I’d rather make a friend than an enemy of my neighbor.” It was sort of true. 

”Smart. Have you ordered?”

Jongwoo nodded. “You changed your clothes,” he noted. 

Moon Jo looked down as if he’d forgotten. “Ah, yes, I’m due to look over the renovations to my clinic this evening so I brought more professional clothing with me today.”

Jongwoo titled his head curiously. ”Clinic?”

Moon Jo looked up. ”I’m a dentist.” 

“Oh…”

”What? I don’t like look a Dentist?”

Jongwoo shook his head. ”No, it’s not that. It’s just that I remember you reading a book on forensics so I thought you might be in a related field.”

Moon Jo lit with realization. “Ah, you could say forensics is something of great interest to me, but I decided to pursue something more lucrative and allowed for more free time.”

Jongwoo nodded and scrambled for something to say, landing on something fairly quick. “You know since you enjoy forensics and true crime, you might like this documentary I saw recently…”

Jongwoo easily dove into details of a random documentary that popped into his head and even suggested a few books he’d read while writing his last novel—Moon Jo taking notes in a small brown notebook he’d pulled from his tote bag. And then they finally landed on the topic that had drawn Jongwoo in. 

“You asked me about The Long Goodbye earlier,” Moon Jo said. “I agree that it’s one of Chandler’s best works. I’m particularly haunted by the ending. Marlowe turning Lennox away while straining himself waiting for him to come back like a man in denial of greater feelings but wanting them realized by the object of them…It’s tragic, wouldn’t you say?”

“I would but I also think there’s a beauty in the implication that love doesn’t have to be physically realized or said to be present in the narrative. Chandler may not have even realized the queer implications of the novel but the tension in those final pages showed the depth of Marlowe and Lennox’s bond and the internal conflict of what was right and wrong in that situation.” 

”Lennox disappeared from Marlowe’s life right before he, Lennox, was accused of murdering his wife, leaving Marlowe to clear his name, which he does with much trouble, and in response to the ad Marlowe put in the paper afterward to summon him back, Lennox repays his old friend by showing up with a new face and lying to him about his own murder. Marlowe sees through him and is understandably angry but it’s that moment you described that shows that Marlowe just wanted Lennox back.”

”After all the trouble he caused, Marlowe still wanted Lennox by his side, despite rebuffing him, he wishes his friend would turn around and fight for their bond. And it’s so close to being requited love, but Lennox never came back into his life and that love remains buried under the surface. It remains unknown and incomplete as an ill fated friendship.”

Moon Jo’s eyes were sparkling, an amused smile on his face. 

Jongwoo paused, feeling awkward. “Ah, I talked too much, didn’t I?”

”Not at all,” Moon Jo assured him. “You spoke with such passion and enthusiasm. It was charming. I really enjoyed hearing your thoughts and I wouldn’t mind hearing more. What do you think of the interpretation that Lennox and Wade represent Chandler himself?

Jongwoo opened his mouth and couldn’t seem to close it after that, diving more into The Long Goodbye, The High Window, The Big Sleep and the rest of Chandler’s works. Moon Jo matched his enthusiasm and even when he didn’t entirely agree with Jongwoo’s analysis, he still didn’t make Jongwoo feel wrong about his interpretations. He even complimented Jongwoo’s own writing and gave same of his thoughts on his novel. It was nice. 

And when they moved on to discussing The Metamorphosis, Jongwoo was enraptured by Moon Jo, impressed by how similar their thinking was when it came to similar parts then wildly different at others. He wanted to hear Moon Jo’s thoughts on his entire book collection, but before he could ask about another of his favorite books, his phone lit up on the table and he saw Jieun’s name and picture. 

Jongwoo quickly grabbed his phone. “Sorry, I gotta take this.” Jongwoo left the table in a hurry as he answered his phone. “Hello?”

“Oppa, where are you?”

Jongwoo kept his voice low as he answered. ”I ran into 304 at my book signing and we ended up getting coffee.”

”Oh,” Jieun said, clearly surprised. “So I take it you got over your dislike for him then?”

Jongwoo waited until he was outside to answer. ”I don’t know yet. But he’s not so bad to talk to.” 

“Well that’s great news because I didn’t want to move,” She joked.

Jongwoo chuckled.

“Hey, so do you want to meet me for dinner? I got off early tonight.”

Jongwoo perked up. ”Yeah, when and where?”

”That ramen shop across from Eden in like…thirty minutes?”

Jongwoo looked at his watch. “Yeah, but make it fifty.” 

“Sounds good. Love ya.”

”Love you too.” Jongwoo hung up and walked back inside. He kind of didn’t want to leave, wanting to hear more of Moon Jo’s thoughts about his book, but he didn’t want to miss an opportunity to finally hangout with Jieun. 

Moon Jo looked up at him expectantly. “Is everything alright?”

“Yeah. Jieun wants to have dinner so I’ve got to go, but this was…nice.” 

“It was,” Moon Jo agreed. “We should have coffee like this again sometime.” Something about his smile as he extended the invitation felt like a trap—perhaps the hint of smugness in his eyes. It made Jongwoo feel a bit unnerved. 

”Yeah, maybe.” He answered noncommittally. 

“Would you like a ride to dinner?”

Jongwoo looked at him curiously. ”You have a car?”

”Yes. I don’t care for driving but sometimes it’s just easier.” 

“Ah, but don’t you have to check on the renovations to your clinic?”

Moon Jo checked the time on his phone. “Right, but…I’m afraid I’ve already missed the Contractor due to our lively conversation.”

Jongwoo hesitated but couldn’t see a reason to not accept the offer. ”Well, the restaurant Jieun picked is across from Eden so if you wouldn’t mind…”

Moon Jo stood up, grabbing his things. “That works perfectly then. Shall we?” 

Jongwoo followed Moon Jo to his car—a dark grey Kia SUV. He got in and silently admired the car.  It looks brand new. 

”Do you have any preference for music?” Moon Jo asked. 

“I’m fine with anything.” 

“I’ll just play the radio.” Moon Jo turned on the radio but kept the volume low enough that they could still talk if they wanted. A few minutes passed without them saying anything then Jongwoo remembered a question he’d had.

”How did you find out about my book signing?” 

“After you told me the name of your novel I looked it up and the book signing event popped up.”

Jongwoo nodded. The fruit of Jaeho’s labor, I guess. 

Moon Jo huffed a quiet laugh. “Do you really believe I’m stalking you, Jagiya?”

There’s that damn term of endearment again! 

”First, don’t call me that,” Jongwoo said, then, “And second, you just keep showing up where I am.”

”We live in the same area, is it so strange to run into each other frequently?” 

Jongwoo considered that. Technically, only the book signing event wasn’t anywhere near their apartment. “…I guess not. I’m just not used to someone having as much free time as me.” 

“If it helps, I will have to return to work once the renovations are done.” 

“Do you work long hours?”

”From 8AM to 6PM. But I’ve hired someone to split the days with so I only work three days a week.”

”It must be nice being your own boss,” Jongwoo commented. 

“I enjoy the freedom. Though, if my foster mother were still here, she would say I’m not working hard enough.”

Jongwoo looked at him curiously. “When did she pass?”

”Last year. Her and my foster brothers tragically passed away in a fire set by my foster mother’s boyfriend.” Moon Jo answered calmly. 

“That’s terrible.” What the fuck?

“It is, but at least he burned up with them. Unfortunately, he took the life of Ms. Eom’s tenant, Mr. Hong, too.” 

“I can’t imagine that was an easy thing to process.” If he lost his family like that, maybe that’s why he’s so intense—he’s just forgotten how to be around people…

“It wasn’t but there’s nothing I could’ve done and no one to punish. All I can do now is collect the insurance checks as if they could ever be enough to replace what I’ve lost.” The way he said it was quiet and strained but Jongwoo noticed that his face was relaxed and his eyes…Jongwoo couldn’t place what was in them but it wasn’t sadness or anger. He didn’t know what to make of that.

”Were you close to your family?”

Moon Jo considered the question then answered, “Close in some ways but very distant in others. It’s hard to say really, but I valued the pack bond we had. Still, it was somewhat difficult to form relationships outside of the family and I think I still struggle with doing so.” 

And that explains why he’s unmated. Jeez, I actually feel sorry for him.

“But that’s enough about me.” Moon Jo said. “Are you close with your family?”

Jongwoo turned his gaze to the windshield.“Uh…close enough, I guess. It’s just my mom, my little brother, and me. My dad passed away when I was fifteen and Jinwoo was eleven.”

”I’m sorry to hear that,” Moon Jo said with more emotion in his face than when he’d talked about his own family. “How did your dad pass?”

Jongwoo hesitated to answer. It was a bit of a sore subject for him, but he felt inclined to answer after hearing about Moon Jo’s past. 

”Well, he came home from work early one day and decided to take a nap in his favorite chair while he had the house to himself and…he had a heart attack in his sleep.”

”That’s awful.” 

“Yeah,” Jongwoo agreed. “I guess it was lucky that I had decided not to pick up my brother from school that day because I got home first and found him…” Jongwoo could see his father in that damn blue chair as if he was right in front of him. Eyes closed. 

“I thought he was asleep at first but he had always had this very loud, obnoxious snore. He was silent that day so I went to check on him and realized he wasn’t breathing. I panicked and tried to shake him awake but he didn’t stir so I called for help.”

“Then I called my mom. I could barely get the words out and once I did, I dropped the phone and went back to my dad’s body. I was alone with him for eight minutes and I couldn’t stop staring at him. He really looked like he was just sleeping…and I ended up touching his face but I…I   couldn’t feel whether he was warm or cold because my hands were numb…I started shaking terribly then and I ran to the kitchen and threw up in the trash can.”

Jongwoo found himself lost in the memory—his childhood home so vivid and real it was almost like he was back in that kitchen, wiping vomit from his mouth. He clenched his fists as bile rose in his throat and dug his nails into his palms. “They called it a widowmaker heart attack and said that there wasn’t anything we could’ve done.” 

”What an awful thing for someone so young to experience,” Moon Jo said gently. 

“It was.” Jongwoo agreed tightly, clenching his fists just a little tighter, trying to ground himself. “But I’m glad it was me who found him. I’m glad I’m the only one who was haunted by that damn chair. My brother was too young and he has a bad heart and my mother…she didn’t deserve to see the man she loved like that in the chair she’d saved up for so long to buy him.” 

“You’re a good son and brother.”

Jongwoo scoffed, finally starting to pull himself out of his own head. “I don’t know about that. I think I’ve gotten worse at taking care of them as I’ve gotten older. All I’m good for is making money so my mother doesn’t have to work more than one job and my brother can stay home and play games all day and keep his heart beating.” 

“You’re doing more than most, Jagiya,” Moon Jo said gently. “From what I heard, you’re letting them live comfortably and I think that’s what good fathers want for their family. That’s enough.”

Jongwoo looked at Moon Jo, tears springing to his eyes. It was perhaps the kindest and gentlest thing anyone had ever said to him. 

Moon Jo glanced at him briefly, not smiling but looking at Jongwoo so warmly that he had to look away first. “I’ve never had a good father so I can’t understand having to fill one’s shoes, but I think you’re doing just fine. “

Jongwoo’s lip quivered and he subtly wiped his eyes. He cleared his throat and changed the topic. “You didn’t know your father?”

“Not really,” Moon Jo said. “He was an alcoholic who abandoned me at an orphanage when I was seven. He used to beat me, bully me, and cut me with shards of glass he collected from the bottles he threw at me…”

”My mother had gotten into a car accident the day I was born and they managed to save me before she passed away. I guess he blamed me because she was on her way to the hospital to induce labor—as if was my fault for not being born on time and not his for making a pregnant woman drive herself to the hospital…” Moon Jo sighed heavily, as if just talking about his father was tiring. 

”Your father sounds like a nightmare.” Jongwoo said, glancing out the window, still emotional. He recognized their surroundings. They were almost to Eden. 

”He was my first. Ms. Eom was my second…She ran the orphanage I grew up in and she was tough on me. She didn’t like how rebellious I was and she even gave me some of my scars, but she slowly became like a mother to me. She taught me so many valuable things and she raised me into the man I am, but I was…relieved by her death because her love felt like a chokehold I could never escape.” 

Jongwoo hummed, processing the information before he said, “You know, they say hell is other people. Your father and Ms. Eom are proof of that.” 

“I think you’re right, Jagiya. At least my hell has ended. What about yours?

Jongwoo glanced at him, feeling a little more composed now. ”Mine?”

“Who is your hell?”

One person came to mind. “A senior of mine from school,” he answered vaguely. 

“And what did he do to you?” 

“He…” Jongwoo felt bile in his throat again. “Ah…I think that I’ve shared too much with you already. We barely know each other.” 

“Well, what’s wrong with that? I like learning about you.”

“That’s only because you’re attracted to me.” Jongwoo pointed out as they pulled to a stop in front of the ramen shop. 

Moon Jo chuckled. “While that is true, I want you to trust me, Jagiya. To lean on me if you ever find yourself in a crisis or even just to come to me when you feel lonely or upset or if you just simply want to talk.” 

”But…why? I’m practically married and found my mate.”

”Does that mean we can’t be friends? I won’t ask for anything else.”

”You won’t ask, but you won’t hide that you want me or stop calling for me affectionately,” Jongwoo said. “What am I supposed to do with that?”

Moon Jo turned to look at him, his eyes lit with interest. ”What do you want to do?” 

Jongwoo blindly reached to his right. “I want to have dinner with my girlfriend." 

"Then you should do that." Moon Jo flashed a smile 

“Look, I don’t mind hanging out with you but that’s it.” 

“I understand, Jagiya.” 

Jongwoo opened his door. “I’m serious. Your flirting isn’t going to work on me,” 

“Then why does it scare you so much?”

“Scare?” Jongwoo scoffed. “It creeps me the fuck out. Especially when you smile at me like I’m the most amusing little puppy.” 

“But you are.”

Jongwoo’s frustration bubbled up. “Ah! It’s like we’re speaking two different languages!” 

Moon Jo chuckled again. “No, I understand you perfectly well. I’m just not interested in hiding my desire for you, even if you don’t share in it. But I will try to use my words more carefully from now on.” 

Jongwoo didn’t believe him. “Please do.” He got out of the car and shut the door behind him without looking back. He’s so infuriating! Just when I think we’re getting along, he goes and says something wrong.

Jongwoo sighed heavily and took a moment to collect his thoughts. Maybe he’ll give up in time and we can be friends properly after Jieun claims me. 

Jongwoo looked inside the ramen shop and spotted Jieun. If I tell her anything that he said, will she just dismiss it like last time? He decided to not say anything. He didn’t want to risk another fight or getting his feelings hurt. He forced a smile and walked into the ramen shop. 

+++++

During dinner, Jieun had received a call about an emergency surgery and had to go back to work. Jongwoo had pretended it was fine, but he was starting to feel like he was seeing Moon Jo more than his own girlfriend. Jongwoo returned to his apartment, intending to write for awhile before turning in for the night. 

Jongwoo walked over to his desk and paused in front of it. He could’ve sworn he’d left his laptop open but not only that, the middle drawer that had gotten stuck the other day was shut. He opened it then shut it again with ease. He frowned, confused. 

What the hell? Why is it suddenly working?

Jongwoo sat at his desk and opened his laptop. It wasn’t on and it didn’t feel warm when he touched it. Is it just my imagination? Did I close it after all?

He plugged it in to charge and tried to turn it on but it wouldn’t. He frowned and kept trying. After ten minutes he accepted defeat. Fuck, I need to go buy another one. 

He checked his bank account and worried his bottom lip with his teeth. His brother’s monthly hospital bill was coming up and he wouldn’t have much left until his next check came in so he couldn’t write comfortably in the meantime. Luckily, all of his work was backed up so he didn’t have to worry about having to start all over, but getting his laptop fixed might take awhile and he had progress deadlines to meet. 

“Damn it. Why couldn’t you have waited until I finished my novel, huh? Now I might have to ask Jieun for money to fix or replace you…” Jongwoo sighed heavily. 

His eyes landed on the fixed drawer. Did Jieun fix it without me noticing?

Chapter Text

Three days passed in complete isolation, Jongwoo watching TV, writing on his phone, and growing a bit restless. Jieun hadn’t come home once. They texted and video called a few times but it wasn’t enough. He cooked alone, ate alone, slept alone, watched TV alone, and did chores alone all in a loop—even writing on his phone was done without the comforting sounds of someone relaxing or working in a different room. 

Maybe it was because Jongwoo had never lived alone before, but he found the silence uncomfortable and grating on his nerves. 

So, on the fourth day, Jongwoo decided to venture out of his apartment and up to the rooftop to swim. But he barely stepped out of his apartment before he was paralyzed—the stares of all those people who caught a whiff of his slick last time embedded in his flesh.

What if someone approaches me because of that? So far, only Jieun and Moon Jo’s scents have appealed to me at all or enough to trigger that reaction but my scent definitely caught other people’s attention…Is it safe for me to go alone?

Jongwoo looked down the hall at Moon Jo’s door. Should I ask him to come just in case? 

He walked down the hall and stood in front of Moon Jo’s door. He stared at the door, hand half raised to knock as he contemplated whether or not it was a good idea to invite Moon Jo to hangout. It probably wasn’t but Jongwoo wanted to go swimming and Moon Jo had protected him last time.

Still, he hit on me then and he hit on me the last time we saw each other…

Am I just overreacting? The people from last time might not even be there…and if Moon Jo does use his pheromones to protect me from some creep, I might end up in the same situation again. Moon Jo might try something this time.

Jongwoo lowered his hand and headed back into his apartment. I’ll just lay low for now and when everyone forgets my scent I’ll try going back up there.

Jongwoo sighed heavily and went to the living room to face plant on the couch. He’d really wanted to get out of the apartment and swim for a bit but as an unmated Omega not taking suppressants he wasn’t allowed even that much. Why does Jieun’s father have to care so much about my career or my genes, huh? I’m an Omega so it’s not like I’m expected to provide and just because my dad and brother got shitty hearts doesn’t guarantee our child will. 

A knock on the door startled Jongwoo from his thoughts. Jongwoo forced himself to get up and answer it, surprised to see Moon Jo standing in the hallway dressed in an oversized white t-shirt and black swim trunks. He had the same shades and tote bag from last time.

“What are you doing here?” Jongwoo asked.

“I’m going for a swim on the roof and came to see if you might join me.”

Jongwoo blinked in surprise. “Uh…sure. I was actually about to go up there. Just let me grab my bag.”

Moon Jo nodded with a pleased smile.

How did he know? 

Jongwoo grabbed his things, put on his sandals, and followed Moon Jo to the elevators.

”How have you been, Jagiya?” Moon Jo asked as he pushed the button for the roof.

”Bored, mostly.”

”I haven’t noticed Miss Min’s car in the garage the last few days. Has she not been coming home?”

”No, she’s been covering shifts lately.” 

“I see. No wonder you’re bored.”

”Exactly…How have you been?”

”Annoyed.”

Jongwoo looked at him curiously. ”Annoyed?”

”I’ve been dealing with a Beta who doesn’t know his place.” He looked irritated, eyes faraway as if picturing that person.

”302?”

”Yes. Ki Hyeok. He seems to think I broke a promise with him that I never made.”

”…Are you dating him?”

”I was entertaining his crush because I saw potential in him, but then he tried to force a claiming bite on my neck.”

Jongwoo’s eyes widened. “Oh my god.”

”Yes and I accidentally choked him a little too hard trying to keep him off me and he passed out so now he’s angry with me and I just want to be done with him.”

Jongwoo frowned. “He has the audacity to be upset when he tried to force a claim on you? Even if it was temporary because you didn’t reciprocate, that would’ve messed with your head until it healed.”

”He’s adamant that we belong together. I can understand that desperation but admittedly I find his actions pathetic.”

”Are you okay?”

”I’m fine. He didn’t manage to sink his teeth in.” Though he spoke calmly, his jaw seemed to tighten in anger. 

“Still, you must’ve felt violated.”

Moon Jo sighed heavily. ”A little, but what can I do? I’ve already ended things and I’ve already hurt him in retaliation. He’s got bruises on his neck while I don’t have a scratch on me and I’m the Alpha, if I tried to press charges only I would get in trouble for assault.” 

Jongwoo frowned, knowing he was right. 

“It’s alright, Jagiya. I’m really fine,” Moon Jo insisted. “I’m just glad that that relationship is finally over.” 

“Won’t it be hard to avoid him since he lives on our floor?” 

“Admittedly, it will be difficult, but I’ll manage. I’m touched by your concern, Jagiya.” 

Jongwoo was grateful the doors to the elevator opened so he could step out without responding. Finding lounge chairs for them to sit in was easy as there were only a handful of people on the rooftop. 

“Mind helping me again?” Moon Jo asked, offering Jongwoo his sunscreen.

Jongwoo grabbed it. “Sure, but can you help me too?”

”Of course.” Moon Jo smiled and took off his shirt, Jongwoo once again surprised by his muscles and slim waist. The scars drew his attention too, but once again, he didn’t comment, knowing where they came from. Instead, he silently traced them and idly wondered if one came from his father or his foster mother as he put sunscreen on them. 

He’s had a rough life it seems. To deal with abusive parents and an asshole like Ki Hyeok and who knows what else...

"Do you want to have lunch up here too?" Moon Jo asked. "The bar serves a limited menu and I quite enjoy the food here."

"Sure." Jongwoo answered. "Since we have to wait a bit to get in the water after putting sunscreen on, do you want to sit in the chairs and read?"

"Sounds good to me."

Jongwoo quickly finished putting sunscreen on Moon Jo's back and shoulders and moved to put it on his chest and stomach. The nerves in his palms seemed to light up as he rubbed the lotion into Moon Jo’s chest. The feeling growing more intense when he moved his hand lower to rub it into his abs. He traced them and the scars, fixated by the way they felt.

Belatedly, he realized Moon Jo could've done this part himself, but since he was already doing it, it felt more awkward to stop. 

"Your hands are soft." Moon Jo told him.  

"Uh, thanks?" 

Moon Jo smiled. 

Jongwoo grabbed more sunscreen and dabbed a few globs on Moon Jo’s face then put some on his arms. "You can do the rest, right?"

Moon Jo nodded. 

Jongwoo started rubbing sunscreen on himself, wanting to minimize anymore physical contact with Moon Jo for safety reasons. They both applied sunscreen in silence until it was time for Moon Jo to help Jongwoo with his back. Moon Jo’s hands were big and mostly soft but calloused as well—like he was capable of doing hard labor but took great care of his hands too.

Jongwoo felt a bit shy having Moon Jo’s hands on him, and refused to look anywhere but the pool. Jongwoo had never been a particularly tactile person outside of affection for Jieun or his family or occasionally Chang Hyun, and it felt almost wrong for Moon Jo to touch him. He blamed Moon Jo for hitting on him so much and adding unnecessary tension to something so innocuous. And for his hands feeling so nice and gentle as they moved across Jongwoo’s skin. 

Once Moon Jo was done applying the sunscreen, they settled in the lounge chairs to read. Except Moon Jo had brought Red Dragon by Thomas Harris and when Jongwoo noticed he couldn’t help but pick Moon Jo’s brain, glad that Moon Jo was rereading it so he didn’t have to tread lightly with his questions. 

By the time Jongwoo realized he’d gotten carried away once again, the sunscreen was dry so they got in the pool. Moon Jo swam laps while Jongwoo floated around. Only two other people were actually in the pool with them, others sitting on the ledge or in the hot tub separate from the pool. Ambient, instrumentals played and Jongwoo found it relaxing, the sun warming his skin and the water around him. 

After a while, he started swimming on his own, inspired by Moon Jo’s impressive number of laps. He noticed as he swam his own laps when Moon Jo started slowing down and eventually matched Jongwoo’s pace. Jongwoo swam a few laps with Moon Jo then stopped at the shallow end of the pool. 

Jongwoo wiped his face and tried to catch his breath, hearing Moon Jo doing the same next to him. “You didn’t have to slow down on my account.” 

“I was getting tired anyway. Are you hungry, yet?”

Jongwoo sniffed and blinked water out of his eyes. “Yeah, let’s eat.”

Moon Jo pulled himself out of the pool and offered his hands to help Jongwoo out. Jongwoo immediately felt cold and scurried to grab his beach towel and wrap it around his shoulders. Moon Jo grabbed his own towel and dried himself off of a little before also wrapping it around his shoulders.

”I have another towel if that one gets too wet,” Moon Jo told him. 

Jongwoo nodded and wiped his face with the edges of his towel before saying, “Let’s eat.”

They went to the bar and ordered burgers and beer, sitting at the stools and clutching their towels as they ate in comfortable silence. 

“Do you want more fries?” Moon Jo asked.

Jongwoo nodded, mouth full. 

Moon Jo ordered them more fries and beer before he said, “This place has great food, doesn’t it?”

“It’s so good,” Jongwoo agreed. “I’m glad I came.”

”I am too.” 

Jongwoo kept his gaze trained on the half-eaten burger in his hands as he said, “Y’know, I actually planned to come up here by myself but I was worried that everyone would remember me from the other day…I was even gonna ask you to come just in case but I chickened out.”

“…It’s not easy for the unmated, is it? You can be triggered into secreting pheromones that put you in danger and I can trigger those same pheromones whether I want to or not.” 

Jongwoo looked at him. “You know I don’t blame you for that, right? I know you only wanted to intimidate 302.” 

“Still, it seems unfair to both of us, doesn’t it? Your scent is always there but when I smell it like that, I lose my head, and you have to keep your distance or you might too.  But while your scent draws everyone in, mine keeps them away, and even now, if it wasn’t with you, some of the others who smelled you last time would be fighting for your attention.” He cast his gaze behind Jongwoo.

Jongwoo looked around. Sure enough, some of the people Jongwoo recognized from the other day were looking at him. Waiting for an opportunity to approach him. An old man winked at him and he turned around quickly. “You’re not allowed to leave me alone for a second up here.”

”I won’t, Jagiya,” Moon Jo promised.

Jongwoo bit into his burger and let how good it tasted distract him from the stares he now felt on his body. He pulled his towel tighter around his shoulders. I’m glad I didn’t come here alone.

“I watched that documentary you recommended,” Moon Jo said. 

Jongwoo perked up at the change in topic. “Oh? What’d you think?”

”It was fascinating. I ended up ordering those books you recommended just so I could learn more about the case.”

“Really?”

“Yes, and I’ve been meaning to ask if you had similar recommendations.”

Jongwoo could barely shut up after that, only pausing when Moon Jo had something to say and using that time to eat or drink as he listened. Once again, he was sucked into conversation that made him forget his ever conflicting feelings about the man next to him and even the perverts watching him. 

After eating, the two of them went to sit in the lounge chairs to relax, actually reading this time. Jongwoo didn’t mean to, but he accidentally fell asleep, the sun noticeably lower in the sky in when he woke up. He had an unfamiliar towel over him as a blanket and his book was missing. He blinked and looked to his left where Moon Jo was still reading. 

Jongwoo watched him for a few minutes then sat up and stretched. He felt well rested and ready to swim some more. “How long was I out?” 

Moon Jo closed his book and looked at him. “About four hours.” 

“Four hours? Why didn’t you wake me?”

”You looked so peaceful that I didn’t want to disturb you.” 

Jongwoo nodded as a yawn escaped him. He stood up and started stretching his whole body. “Want to swim until it gets darks?” 

“Sure.” 

Moon Jo put away his book and stood up, taking off his shades and pushing back his medium length hair with one hand. The light hit him just right and Jongwoo felt compelled to take a picture but he didn’t. It seemed a little too soon in their friendship to keep random pictures of Moon Jo in his phone. 

“Ready?” Moon Jo asked, oblivious to Jongwoo’s thoughts. 

Jongwoo nodded and led the way to the pool steps. There were fewer people by the pool but the café was pretty full. Thankfully, no one so much as glanced his way. 

“How long can you hold your breath?” Jongwoo asked once they were in the deep end. 

“I’m not sure, why?”

"Want to find out who can hold their breath longer?"

Moon Jo smiled, an amused glint in his eyes. "Sure, but what does the winner get?"

"Gloating rights?"

"Alright. I'm ready when you are." 

"Take a deep breath."

They both took a deep breath and then they submerged themselves under water. It took a moment for his eyesight to adjust but once it did, Jongwoo made eye contact with Moon Jo and held it. They smiled at each other.

It reminded Jongwoo of summers spent with his younger brother in Jeju when they visited their aunt and did this exact same thing. Jongwoo always won of course, but Jinwoo had become a fiercer opponent with each visit.

Jongwoo stayed underwater as long as he could, but ultimately he had to give up first, swimming up and bursting through the surface, gasping for breath. Moon Jo followed suit, also gasping for breath. 

“I’ve never lost before,” Jongwoo said once he’d caught his breath. 

“Don’t take it too hard, I wouldn’t have lasted much longer.” 

Jongwoo chuckled and wiped some water away from his eyes. “I’ll keep that in mind for next time.” 

Moon Jo smiled, pushing his hair out of his eyes. “Want to race next and see if you can earn a win against me?”

Jongwoo nodded. “Alright, but don’t go easy on me. If I don’t know the difference between us, I can’t try to compensate for it next time.” 

They went to the deep end to start their race, deciding on the floating line that separated the deep end from the shallow end as their lap turnaround and that the first person to touch the wall was the winner. Jongwoo swam as fast as he could but Moon Jo was faster—as if he came from the water itself. Still, Jongwoo challenged him five more times and lost each time. 

In the middle of his sixth rematch, Jongwoo gave up and turned on his back to float, staring up at the night sky as he caught his breath. He was drained of all energy but it felt nice after days of barely moving around in his apartment. Today’s been fun. Relaxing and exhausting and just what I needed. 

The water next to him shifted and a moment later he saw Moon Jo towering over him. “I take it that you’ve given up?”

“Yup. I’m no match for you.”

Moon Jo smiled. “Is there still no prize for the winner other than gloating rights?”

“Coffee?”  

“Any kind I want?”

Jongwoo nodded. 

Moon Jo’s smile grew and he moved away enough to lay on his back next to him. “Sounds good to me.” 

They floated in the pool until Jongwoo felt like getting out then they went to dry off at their lounge chairs. Jongwoo dried off as best he could and put his shirt on. He was in the middle of drying his legs when he felt something drop heavy on his head. 

Jongwoo stared up at Moon Jo as he dried Jongwoo’s hair with a towel and smiled. He missed this feeling of being taken care of—of someone silently doting on him. Him and Jieun had lived apart for six months and now she was gone all the time so he didn’t get to experience even this much intimacy with her.

Moon Jo noticed him smiling and mirrored it back at him. “Thank you for coming with me, Jagiya.”

“Yeah, anytime.” 

Jongwoo was once again struck by how handsome Moon Jo was, his stomach fluttering as he memorized the details of his face—his plush pink lips, the small moles on his cheek, the dark sharp eyes now staring at him and his nose—

Moon Jo suddenly moved the towel higher, partially covering Jongwoo’s eyes as he continued to dry his hair. “You shouldn’t look at me like that.”

”Like what?”

”Like you would kiss me if you were permitted to do so.” 

Jongwoo scoffed. “I think you’re projecting.” 

“Maybe so. You are quite pretty. Makes it hard to think this close.” 

Jongwoo lifted the towel to pointedly roll his eyes. Moon Jo chuckled and put the towel back in place so he could keep drying his hair. This too felt…nice. Maybe I should get out of the apartment more…

“Do you want to order food and coffee before we head back down?” Moon asked. 

“Sure.” 

Moon Jo finished drying Jongwoo’s hair and Jongwoo returned the favor, trying to not make it weird or give the wrong impression. But in the middle of drying Moon Jo’s hair, he spotted Ki Hyeok watching them from the entrance to the pool. He raised his eyebrow, daring him to say something as he continued drying Moon Jo’s hair.

Last time, Moon Jo’s pheromones had gotten in the way before he could even react, but if he ever really needed to, Jongwoo could fight. He had done his military service despite being eligible for exemption because he’d wanted to learn how to fight—how to be tougher than anyone expected an Omega to be. Ki Hyeok glared for a moment then turned and left.

Jongwoo looked down at Moon Jo’s towel covered head. Should I call Chang Hyun and threaten that asshole? Teach him that it’s not right to force a claim on someone?

Jongwoo paused for a brief second, realizing that he was getting worked up on Moon Jo’s behalf—like he even had a right to. What am I thinking? It’s his business! We’e barely even friends…Speaking of—Can we really be friends? The more we talk, the more it feels like we’re the same…but can I really trust him? We’re definitely affected by each other’s scents and he keeps hitting on me. I don’t know if I could ever fully relax around him. 

But I don’t want to be alone all the time. 

“Are you alright, Jagiya?”

Jongwoo cursed internally. His scent must’ve sharpened and soured with his mood—impossible not to notice this close. “Just thinking a bit too much.” 

“Then perhaps we should order dessert too. Sweet treats are good for comfort, or so I’ve heard.” 

Jongwoo laughed unexpectedly. 

Moon Jo lifted his head, the towel falling down his back. “What’s funny?”

”You said that like you’re not human—like you’re detached from the whole experience.” 

Moon Jo blinked at him. “Ah…well as a dentist I’ve seen what too much sugar does to a person’s teeth so I typically find other outlets when I’m upset, but I don’t think a little dessert would affect you very much.” 

Jongwoo laughed again and turned to grab his things. “Let’s go before you say something strange and ruin this almost normal hangout.” 

+++++

An hour after eating dinner, alone, Jongwoo received a call from Jieun as he was writing on his phone, wishing he hadn’t given his tablet to his brother when he moved out. 

“Hello?”

“Hey, what are you doing, Oppa?”

”Trying to write on my phone.” 

“Oh, I see…Are you sure you don’t want me to send you money to get a new laptop?”

”I’m sure. I’ll just wait until I get my next check. Chang Hyun seems to think it’ll be bigger this time.” 

“Really? Why?”

“I don’t know. I guess some book influencer recommended it on their account and the sales have gone up.”

”Wow, that’s great news!”

“Yeah…Anyway, what are you doing?”

“Eating in a closet so I can have some peace and quiet.”

Jongwoo chuckled. “Stressed?”

”Always…” She sighed. “But instead of talking about my day, I’d much rather hear about what you did today.”

A strange feeling settled in Jongwoo’s chest. “Uh, well, Mr. Seo asked me to go swimming with him today so I did that.”

”Mr. Seo? I guess you do like him after all.” 

“Like is a strong word.”

”It is? Did he do something wrong?” 

“Well…he called me pretty today,” Jongwoo told her, that strange feeling gnawing at him. 

”You are pretty.” She agreed. 

Jongwoo frowned. “That’s not the point. Don’t you think it’s weird?”

”Not really. I mean, don’t you think he’s handsome?”

”Well…I guess, but—“

”He told me I was pretty when we first met.”

A flash of anger reared up inside of him. ”What?”

”Relax, he wasn’t hitting on me, I told him my boyfriend was moving in and he said, ‘I’m not surprised someone so pretty already has a boyfriend.’” 

“He was drying my hair when he said it,” Jongwoo said, refusing to add the context of Moon Jo implying that Jongwoo wanted to kiss him. “He said it was hard to think being close to someone so pretty.”

Jieun still didn’t seem convinced. “It was probably just a joke. You said he wants to be friends, right? Friends joke like that all the time.” 

Jongwoo glared down at his phone. What is her deal? Why won’t she believe it when I tell her that he says weird things to me? “Right, I guess,” he said, giving up. The strange feeling disappeared along with the topic. “When are you coming home?”

”Around 3AM.”

”Late again…”

”Sorry, Oppa.”

”It’s fine…hey, did you fix my desk drawer?”

”Uh, no? Was it broken?”

”It kept getting stuck when I tried to open or close it, but it suddenly started working right again.”

”Huh. That’s strange. I swear I haven’t touched it.”

Jongwoo hummed. He didn’t know what to make of that. Maybe I fixed it by accident?

+++++

Jongwoo scrolled on his phone as he ate breakfast, not particularly interested in any of the videos he watched. Suddenly, he thought he heard a whispered, "Jagiya." and he whipped his head around but he didn't see anyone. He didn’t smell anyone either, but a few seconds later there was a loud knock on the door. 

“Just a minute!” Jongwoo called as he set his fork down. He put his phone down and wiped his fingers on his pants as he rushed to answer the door. 

Instead of a person waiting for him he found a bag hanging on the doorknob. He stepped out into the the hall and looked around but no one seemed to be around. He grabbed the bag and looked inside, discovering it was a copy of his book with annotation notes sticking out of them with a big sticky note in the center of the book.

| We didn't get to finish talking about your book so I thought I'd give you my thoughts like this. Call me if you'd like to talk more. | a number was written on the end of the note 

Jongwoo stared at the number, unsure if it was something he even wanted, but they were getting closer despite Jongwoo’s reservations about Moon Jo’s intentions so…

Jongwoo groaned. “Ah, why does he make things so awkward? If he’d stop hitting on me I could relax and not overthink.” 

Jongwoo walked back to his seat at the island and cracked open the annotated book to a random page. He read a random pink sticky note.

| The detective talks in a poetic way that I quite enjoy. Like an indication of his different way of thinking compared to those around him. I think it’s beautiful that the pianist speaks similarly but that the detective understands him best through the bodies he leaves behind. |

Jongwoo smiled and read another on the next page—well two stacked on top of each other, a small arrow drawn to point to the scene above them. 

“Do you believe in angels, detective?”

“I don’t.”

“But you believe in demons?”

“I believe in the capability of human beings to act akin to either angels or demons, but I don’t believe in a greater power nor its servants or their dominions, only that the capacity of sanity, tolerance, and politeness as well as the inherent will inside of each individual is different. That is why some become devils and some become saints and most people end up somewhere in between.”

| Do you hold such beliefs, Jagiya? Do you have a large capacity for sanity and tolerance? |

| Is that why you act so polite all the time? I don’t find you particularly nice but you are polite enough to still be trapped by social conventions. Still, I see it in your eyes when you want to rip me apart...I'm quite interested in what it would be like if you tried. |

Jongwoo huffed. "Is this your way of flirting?" But a small smile slipped out.

| You're so pretty when you scowl and curse at me...is that enough to make you try? | 

His smile grew unexpectedly and he shook his head. No! Dont fall for his bullshit!. 

Jongwoo closed the book and set it to the side so he could finish eating, but he couldn’t help glancing at it, curious as to what else Moon Jo had written. Once he finished breakfast and washed the dishes, he grabbed the book and went to sit on the couch to read the annotations from start to finish, intending to only do it to whet his desire to continue writing the sequel.

Of course, he had no way of knowing how much fun it would be—smiling at praise, laughing at jokes, rolling his eyes at the flirting, savoring the analysis of the characters and their beliefs, and conceding to the light critiques about the murders themselves. The entire day seemed to fly past in the blink of an eye and Jongwoo only realized as he lost the light in the room and was forced to turn on a lamp. 

He checked the time on his phone and shot an incredulous look at the screen. 

Damn, I wasted the entire day reading all his notes…

Jongwoo suddenly remember the sticky note on the front of the book and eyed it warily. I know I shouldn’t accept his number to put some distance between us, but it feels kind of weird after reading his thoughts all day to not at least say something to him…and I am starting to feel hungry…

Jongwoo dialed the number on the sticky note, fidgeting nervously. 

"Hello?"

"Do you want to have dinner and talk about my next novel?"

The phone went silent for a moment, then, "Of course, Jagi. Shall I pick you up at seven?"

“Yeah, I’ll be home.” 

“Then it’s a date.”

Before Jongwoo could even open his mouth to refute, Moon Jo hung up. He scoffed and pulled the phone away from his ear to save the number in his phone as ‘the creep from 304’ before getting up to get ready for their outing. He took a shower and dressed casually but his clothes were new—gifts from Jieun he’d discovered when he’d unpacked. 

By the time he was done it was already time to go and as he was putting his shoes on, the doorbell rang. He double checked that he had his phone and keys then went to answer it. 

Moon Jo greeted him with a smile, and he avoided his eyes. His scent radiated off of him very strongly—a sign of a very happy Alpha. 

“Let’s go.” Jongwoo said. 

“What would you like? I’ll buy.” He sounded so smug, as if Jongwoo hanging out with him again was his greatest victory. 

Am I making a mistake?

+++++

Mistake or not, Jongwoo didn’t want to eat dinner alone again, so they ended up at a barbecue place nearby with Moon Jo cooking everything while Jongwoo stuffed his face, drank soju, and talked about the awkward team dinners he used to have at the office job he’d had before he’d moved back to Busan. 

“And you know I heard that asshole worked up the nerve to ask out Ju Yeong after I left. She turned him down of course, but he accused her of being in love with me and they got into this massive fight and it turned out that she was dating someone she reconnected with from High School before her and I even met.” Jongwoo said. “So that asshole had spent all that time being petty and jealous even though I told him I was dating Jieun and even though Ju Yeong had a boyfriend all along. What a waste of my time!”

Moon Jo put more pork on his plate. “He was just insecure after comparing himself to you. He saw a handsome new guy around the girl he coveted and assumed he would lose her to you. Isn’t it a little flattering to be seen as a threat?”  

Jongwoo considered that for a few seconds. “…Maybe now that you’ve pointed it out, but mostly it’s just annoying. Why did his insecurity have to be my problem, huh? Is it my fault he looks like that?” Jongwoo huffed and made a wrap with the pork on his plate. 

“At least you don’t have to see him ever again.” 

“Thank God for that,” Jongwoo muttered. He shoved the wrap in his mouth and looked around with a sigh. Moon Jo was really good at grilling. 

Something at the window caught his eye and when he looked properly his heart stopped. “He’s watching us.”

”Hm?” 

Ki Hyeok’s attention suddenly shifted to the right, glaring at Moon Jo. Jongwoo looked at Moon Jo too. Could he be stalking us? Should I be worried? Maybe I should reconsider calling Chang Hyun…

Moon Jo glared back at Ki Hyeok, his expression so cold that it made Jongwoo uneasy. “He must still be angry that I rejected him.”

Jongwoo glanced at Ki Hyeok but he was gone. “He must’ve mistaken this as a date and felt jealous.”

“That’s very likely.” Moon Jo shifted his gaze back to Jongwoo and noticed the way Moon Jo seemed to soften. 

I’m glad he doesn’t glare at me like that cos he looks so fucking cree—why does he look like he’s going say something obnoxious?

”I wonder, would your girlfriend think and feel the same if she saw us together?”

Jongwoo glared. “She’s not that possessive.” Jieun never got jealous. Since they weren’t mated yet, she wasn’t possessive of him the way Alphas usually were of their Omegas. She didn’t even care when Jaeho—

”If you were mine,” Moon Jo said, interrupting his thoughts, “I would never let you be friends with another Alpha or meet them so casually for dinner.” 

Jongwoo just stared at him blankly—unimpressed.

“You’re too precious not to protect.” 

“You can’t say that.” Jongwoo warned.

“Why? Because it’s too forward or because you liked hearing it?”

Jongwoo huffed in disbelief and stood up. “I’m going to the restroom. Try to remember what boundaries are while I’m gone.” 

Moon Jo nodded, looking smug. 

Jongwoo went to the restroom and while he was washing his hands, he couldn’t help but think of what Moon Jo had said. Why does he like me so much? Our interactions haven’t always been positive and I’m not particularly nice to him, so why does he say things like that? That I’m precious…

Jongwoo’s phone buzzed with a text. It was from Jieun. 

| Won’t be coming home until very late. I have to cover

 a few hours for Dr. Jung. Sorry 💔 Did you eat?

Want me to order something for you? |

Jongwoo frowned. 

I wonder, would your girlfriend think and feel the same if she saw us together?”

Jongwoo texted back. | That’s okay. And I’m having dinner with Mr. Seo now. |

Jieun texted back. | Okay 💕  Have fun with Mr. Seo, baby 💕💕💕 |

Jongwoo frowned. She may like him, but why doesn’t it bother her that I’m spending time with him? He’s still an Alpha!

Jongwoo pocketed his phone and sighed heavily before leaving the bathroom. She just trusts me a lot, that’s it. She knows I can protect myself.

But he still felt upset and despite knowing Moon Jo was just trying to get under his skin, he couldn’t help but feel disappointed by Jieun’s response—her lack of concern over him hanging around another Alpha so often. 

Moon Jo was finally eating when Jongwoo returned to the table and he felt a little guilty that he'd just stuffed his face all that time so he took over cooking for a while. Moon Jo tried to stop him at first but after Jongwoo smacked his hand a third time he just chuckled and conceded. 

“As you wish, Jagiya.” 

Jongwoo sighed internally. He loves calling me that. “Do you call everyone that?”

“Only people I take an interest in.”

”Like me and 302.” Jongwoo said, remembering Moon Jo addressing that man the same way on the rooftop.

Moon Jo’s eyes lit with curiosity. “Does it make you jealous that you’re not the only one I’ve called this way?” 

Jongwoo huffed. “No, it just makes me wonder how sincere you really are.” 

“I’m always sincere in my affections, but does moving on quickly from someone that didn’t make me happy seem that bad to you?”

“…I guess not. It’s just a bit…sudden.”

“Well if it puts you at ease, our relationship wasn’t doing well before you came along. He just can’t see that and blames you.” 

“But I haven’t done anything.”

Moon Jo smiled. ”But you have, Jagiya. You’ve captivated me.” 

Jongwoo looked away awkwardly. “Crazy bastard,” he muttered. His heart fluttered despite his unease,

”Me or him?”

”Both.” 

Moon Jo chuckled. 

Jongwoo put a few pieces of meat on Moon Jo’s plate then put the last of their order on the grill. He took another shot of soju, ordered two beers, then changed the subject once they arrived. “How are the renovations going?”

”They’re coming along nicely,” Moon Jo answered. “They’re expected to be finished in a month.” 

“You must be well off to afford your apartment, your car, and to put money into your clinic.” 

“I do live quite comfortably. Is money something you desire, Jagiya?”

“Mm…It’s not that I desire money more than the average person, it’s that I need it, and not just for myself, but my family too. I make a decent amount from royalties but they’re not always consistent and sometimes I have to borrow money. Still, I’m making my own money which feels nice.” 

Moon Jo hummed and raised his beer to his lips. “Well, if you’re ever in need I have plenty to spare.” 

Jongwoo rolled his eyes and said, “Yeah? Buy me a new laptop then,” before taking a shot of his soju.

“Is that all you want?”

Jongwoo grabbed his beer. ”An iPad. One of those with a keyboard and a pencil.” He chugged half his beer and set it down with a loud, satisfied sigh, wiping at his mouth. 

“Anything else?”

Jongwoo shook his head and quickly used the tongs to put more pork belly on Moon Jo’s plate, then a few pieces on his before ordering more and another beer for himself. 

“Jongwoo, I don’t want to ruin the mood, but I am curious about something.”

Jongwoo was caught off guard by the use of his name instead of the usual term of endearment. I’m probably not going to like whatever he’s going to ask, am I? ”What is it?”

“Why hasn’t your dear Alpha claimed you yet?”

I knew it.

Jongwoo took a big sip of his beer. It was a fair question. He sighed heavily before he answered. “Because Jieun’s father doesn’t approve of me or my chosen career. He thinks I’m immature for trying to make a career out of writing, and that the subject matter of my book is too dark and twisted to be proud of.”

”Are those his only reasons?”

“No…” Jongwoo sighed. “He’s also worried that our children might inherit my brother’s heart condition.” 

“I see…But why does her father’s opinion matter more than what you both want?”

”Her father has the power to kill her career if he wants and the reality is that I can’t support us financially if he does that.”

”…Jagi—“

Jongwoo glared. ”If you say something about how much money you have to take care of me, I swear I’ll—

“I was just going to say that it must be tough to live with a father in law like that.”

“Liar.” Jongwoo finished off his beer.

Moon Jo chuckled. “What you said is what I was thinking, but what I said is what I thought I should say to my friend who’s hurting. I do care about you, Jagiya, and I know when certain things shouldn’t be said.”

Jongwoo set his mug down. “I can’t tell.”

Moon Jo only seemed amused by the slight. “Fair enough.”

Jongwoo sniffed. He needed more alcohol at the mere thought of his father in law. “Do you want to play a drinking game?”

”I have to drive us home.”

”Play with water then.”

Jongwoo spent the next hour and a half talking Moon Jo through a few different drinking games and by the time Moon Jo insisted they needed to leave, Jongwoo was well and truly drunk. He clung onto Moon Jo’s shoulders for balance, not minding the way Moon Jo held him with an arm around his waist or the way his warm hand could be felt through the thin fabric of Jongwoo’s shirt. 

Moon Jo helped him get in the car and even put his seatbelt on for him. He felt warm and relaxed, but he suddenly had cravings.

”I want something sweet,” Jongwoo said, the four words feeling oddly hard to get out. Heavy. A little slurred. Ah, maybe I drank too much…

Moon Jo looked at his watch. “Now?”

Jongwoo nodded and gave him the same puppy dog look he always gave to his mother to get what he wanted. Impulsively he softly added, “Please, Jagiya.”

Moon Jo smiled so hard he to bite his lip to dim it and look away for a moment. “Ah, you’re not playing fair…Fine, I’ll find a place that’s still open. What would you like?”

Gotcha! 

With a smirk, Jongwoo said, “Cheesecake.”

Moon Jo nodded. “Give me a moment to find a place.”

Jongwoo nodded. He watched Moon Jo shut the door and round the car to get in then get on his phone as soon as he was seated. His phone was black and without a case. Who doesn’t have a phone case nowadays, hm? He’s so weird. 

After a minute, Moon Jo typed an address into the car’s navigation system and then they were finally off to satisfy Jongwoo’s craving. So that they never sat in silence, Moon Jo tended to play the most popular music stations in Korea every time they were in the car but he never sang along to anything or reacted to any of the songs playing. Jongwoo stared at him with heavy eyelids to see if it would be any different this time. 

“Is there a reason you’re studying me so closely, Jagiya?” Moon Jo asked after a few songs had played.

”Do you even like the music on this station?” Jongwoo questioned.

”…Not particularly, but I think this music is better suited for when I have a passenger because I don’t mind missing out on what’s playing if we get lost in conversation.” 

Jongwoo considered that information, his brain taking a little longer to gather his thoughts into a question. “Do you research how to be a normal person in front of everyone else? Jieun seems to like you, the reviews on your dental clinic rave about how nice, handsome, and considerate you are, and you even have moments with me where you seem totally normal.”

Moon Jo smiled. “You looked me up?”

Jongwoo realized belatedly that he shouldn’t have said that. “Well…you looked me up, didn’t you?”

”Because I was interested to know more about you.” 

Jongwoo ignored the implication that he was interested in Moon Jo too. "So am I right?" 

Moon Jo shook his head. "While you might find me abnormal, I've never struggled to fit in. I simply don't wear a mask around you. I'd rather you love me or hate me for who I truly am."

"...You're not afraid of getting hurt?"

"It's not that I am unafraid, but rather that I prefer a harsh truth than a sweet lie."

Jongwoo hummed, staring at Moon Jo's profile. "And what if I don't end up liking you after all?"

"Then...I suppose I'm only meant for one-sided affection in this life." He sounded resigned to it. Sad. His expression seemed to match the feeling unlike when he talked about the tragedy that befell his family members.

Jongwoo looked away from him, feeling a little uncomfortable. He let one and a half songs play before he changed the topic. "You know, I spent all day reading your annotations of my book."

"Did you? What did you think?"

"You're...surprisingly charming and...I really enjoy hearing your thoughts,” Jongwoo admitted. “I feel like you really understood my thought process while I was writing."

"I'm honored you feel that way,” Moon Jo replied, sparing him a glance and a brief smile. “I am curious, however, on how you plan to approach the second novel you mentioned."

"Ah...well I'm a bit stuck these days. I'm torn between letting the pianist or the detective win to wrap up their story."

"Wouldn't it be more poetic to give them a lovers ending so they both win?"

"What do you mean?"

Moon Jo launched into an explanation that Jongwoo was a little too drunk to keep up with perfectly and had to keep circling back during for clarification, but Moon Jo was patient and unbothered by his inability to process everything normally. Jongwoo enjoyed hearing Moon Jo's ideas for the story, hoping he would retain some of them in the morning. 

The place they ended up at was pretty far from home, but it was open around the clock due to its location near a hospital—residents and doctors of said hospital getting special discounts. 

I wonder if Jieun gets discounts at her hospital…Jongwoo thought idly while he sat at a table and waited for Moon Jo to bring him his order. Maybe I should ask her when she gets off…

Moon Jo returned with their order and Jongwoo dug in. Jongwoo ate his cheesecake a little too happily, humming happily and too drunk to care what others might think. Moon Jo was the only one who watching anyway, and Jongwoo was getting used to his staring. 

“Do you want another slice?” Moon Jo asked.

Jongwoo nodded as he took a sip of coffee. Admittedly, this whole night has been much better than just sitting alone in my apartment, waiting for Jieun to come home. I know she has to work but it’s hard to live in the same place but never see each other…it’s harder that we have sex and barely talk then when weren’t having sex but talked constantly when I was in Busan.

I just don’t get it. The only time I haven’t felt lonely since I moved in is when I’m with this crazy bastard who keeps hitting on me. Is it always going to be like this?

Jongwoo pulled out his phone and texted Jieun a picture of their drinks with the caption, | Still out with Mr. Seo 💙 do you know when you’ll be home?|

Jieun didn’t respond before Moon Jo returned so he decided to do something petty. 

"Do you want to take a picture together?"

Moon Jo tilted his head curiously.  "Sure."

Jongwoo got up and positioned himself next to Moon Jo, throwing his arm over his shoulder. "Smile." Moon Jo obeyed and Jongwoo snapped a few pictures as he put a smile on his own face. 

Jongwoo sent the picture to Jieun and this time she replied immediately..

| I’m glad he’s taking care of you, baby.

I’ll be home around four or five I think 💕💕 |

Jongwoo frowned. She’s glad he’s taking care of me? That’s all she has to say when it’s this late?

”How reckless of her.”

Jongwoo jumped at the sound of Moon Jo’s voice in his ear and nearly dropped his phone. “Fuck. Don’t scare me like that!” Moon Jo’s face was so close to his and he froze, breathing in Moon Jo’s scent. His smell made Jongwoo’s mouth water this close.

As if Moon Jo could read his mind, he smirked. “My apologies, Jagiya. I was just curious as to what put that frown on your face. It seems she doesn’t even see me as a threat when she really should.”

Jongwoo put away his phone. “She just really trusts me.” 

“Maybe, but you sent those pictures to her to make her jealous, did you not?”

”I was just updating her. That’s what couples do.” Jongwoo went back to his seat and started eating his cheesecake again. 

"Will you send me those pictures?"

Jongwoo pulled out his phone again and sent the pictures to Moon Jo, then went back to eating, silently sulking over Jieun’s lack of reaction. It’s after midnight and she doesn’t find it strange that I’m still with him?

“Maybe if you stay with me overnight you’ll get a reaction out of her.” 

Jongwoo shot him an unamused glare that only seemed to delight Moon Jo. They didn’t say much else as they enjoyed their coffee and dessert, Jongwoo sobering up enough to walk back to the car unassisted this time. But Moon Jo walked close anyway, the back of his hand brushing against Jongwoo’s. 

Strangely, Jongwoo kind of wanted Moon Jo to take his hand, but he was unsure if it was because he wanted it or if he was still just sulking over Jieun and wanted to spite her.

+++++

Instead of going straight home, Jongwoo insisted they go to the rooftop first to get some fresh air. Moon Jo obliged, content to spend the whole night with Jongwoo. They both laid on lounge chairs and stared up at the sky. A few minutes went by in comfortable silence.

“You know, it’s been really nice talking to you about books,” Jongwoo admitted randomly—just wanting to fill the silence.

”It’s been nice talking to you too.”

Jongwoo smiled then sighed heavily. “I’ve always loved reading and writing by extension. I used to enter my short stories into random contests and I even placed in a few but I was never the winner…And now I’ve got a published novel and I’m trying so hard to write its sequel and I’m so happy that I could die... People actually like my book and even if it’s not a bestseller, just knowing that even a few people like it is so satisfying to me.” 

“But I don’t get to read as much anymore. And not just cos writing takes a lot of time, but because almost every single book I own is back in Busan, tucked away in my childhood bedroom…” Jongwoo sighed again. “I know I could buy some of them again or go back and collect a few, but I don’t have any space for them.”

”Our floor has two bedrooms per apartment, you can’t put them in the room you’re not using?”

Jongwoo shook his head. “It’s going to be our nursery.” 

“…Are you already pregnant?”

”No, but I’m gonna be soon. We’ve been trying but I’m not sure the effects of my birth control have worn off yet.” 

“I see.”

”I was hoping to lend you some books but I don’t have them here with me so…Anyway, I only brought five books with me and they’re not the ones I wanted to recommend.” Jongwoo really missed having his entire book collection but it seemed like such a hassle to move them all when they didn’t even have the proper space for them.

”You can just tell me which books you think I should read and I can buy them on my own.”

”Yeah…Remind me another time to tell you what they’re called.”

“…In the meantime, I have quite a collection of books if you’re ever looking for something to read or reread.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Jongwoo said with a yawn, finally feeling sleepy. 

There was a brief pause, then Moon Jo said something wrong again, “If you were my lover, Jagi, I would buy us a house big enough for you to have your own personal library.” 

Jongwoo turned to look at him, melting a little under Moon Jo’s intense gaze—the loneliness that had been creeping up on him getting the best of him, just for a moment at least. “You say a bunch of bullshit, don’t you?”

Moon Jo chuckled. “I’m not bullshitting you, Jagiya, but I suppose that it’s hard to believe me when I can’t fulfill this particular promise as things are now.” 

Jongwoo huffed. “So let me get this straight, if I became yours, you’d give me all the money I want, a house, and my own personal library?”

Moon Jo nodded. “Anything you wanted.” 

“And what if I just stole all your money and ran off on my own?” 

“Then I’d just have to find you again.” 

Jongwoo shook his head and looked back to the sky. “You’re weird.” 

“And yet you keep choosing to spend your time with me. Why is that?”

Jongwoo felt a pit in his stomach. “I don’t have many friends and my family is back in Busan.” 

“You don’t have any friends here?”

”I have one. Chang Hyun. But he’s overworked and busy all the time.”

“So I’m all you have.”

”Exactly.” 

“Well, I suppose you’re all I have too.” 

“Because you’re weird.” 

Moon Jo chuckled. 

Jongwoo smiled and yawned. Like this, it felt easy to not take him seriously. “I think we should go now.”

“Go where? To his place or yours?”

They both turned at the sudden voice and found Ki Hyeok standing a few feet to their right. 

“What are you doing here?” Moon Jo asked, standing up.

Jongwoo stood up too and watched them.

”I came to remind you of your promise.” Ki Hyeok answered. “But again, I find you with this Omega whore.” 

“Don’t call him that,” Moon Jo warned. “And I never promised you anything but to give you a chance. I did that and you tried to force a claim and mess with my head.” 

“Because you got tempted by an Omega like a normal Alpha—all this time we’ve known each other, you’ve never cared for them, so why him, huh? You said their scents made you feel sick to your stomach and that sex never motivated you, but now what? You want this one to spread his legs for you? What’s wrong with you? Why are you being so damn weak?”

Moon Jo crowded into Ki Hyeok’s space, but he didn’t use his pheromones to intimidate him this time. “Your jealousy makes me sick. I never told you I would be yours and I entertained your whims because you used to be the most interesting person I knew. But I was mistaken.” 

Ki Hyeok glared—eyes so full of rage that Jongwoo, even as drunk as he was, knew he needed to step in. He approached slowly while Ki Hyeok was fully focused on Moon Jo. “Mistaken? I’ve given you everything you’ve asked for!” 

“And yet, you still couldn’t change my mind on the idea of me being your mate, could you?” 

Ki Hyeok’s hands shot out and wrapped around Moon Jo’s throat, squeezing tightly. “You son of a bitch! Do you think I’ll just let you go because you decided it’s over?”

The moment he was close enough, Jongwoo punched Ki Hyeok right in the nose, watching as his head jerked back and he instinctively covered his nose with both hands. “He doesn’t want to be with you, asshole.” 

Ki Hyeok stared at him in shock. 

“What?” Jongwoo challenged. “Never been hit by an Omega before?” 

Ki Hyeok glared and took a step towards him only to get struck in the throat by Jongwoo—making a choking noise as he was forced back.

”Get out of here before you get your ass kicked,” Jongwoo warned, stepping into Ki Hyeok’s space, unafraid. “I’m not just going to stand here like some scared little Omega like you expect. That’s not who I am.”

Ki Hyeok glared at him but he couldn’t speak.

Moon Jo came to stand at Jongwoo’s side. “You better listen to my new friend, Mr. Yoo.” 

Ki Hyeok frowned and with one last glare at the both of them, he left. 

Jongwoo turned to Moon Jo the second he was out of sight. “You alright?”

Moon Jo turned to him and nodded. “I’m alright. How’s your hand?”

Jongwoo looked down at his right hand. It didn’t even hurt. But that could’ve just been alcohol still dulling his senses. “It’s fine. I didn’t hit him hard enough to break his nose so I probably won’t even bruise. Most people can’t really take a punch straight to their nose like that so it probably looked and felt worse than it actually was.”

Moon Jo still grabbed his hand and inspected it in the moonlight. “Still, you pack quite a punch don’t you?”

Jongwoo shrugged. “I know how to fight.” 

“Always full of surprises.” Moon Jo commented. He stroked his thumbs over the back of Jongwoo’s hand and met his gaze. “Thank you for stepping in, Jagi. It’s means a lot to me that you would protect me.”

The intense, soft look in his eyes flustered Jongwoo, his face warming. “Well, you protected me last time so, it’s only fair, right?”

“I suppose, but that doesn’t make me appreciate it less.” 

Jongwoo pulled his hand out of Moon Jo’s grasp. “I just hope he’ll leave you alone from now on.” 

“Me too.”

”We should go home now, it’s late.”

Moon Jo nodded and gestured for Jongwoo to lead the way.

”Also…thanks. For not using your pheromones this time,” Jongwoo said before he started walking. “I know it would’ve been easier for you if you had.” 

“You don’t have to thank me for that,” Moon Jo said. “It’s the least I could do after my behavior last time. I want you to trust me and be able to rely on me and I can’t do that if I’m tempting you with my pheromones.” 

“Right…” He’s…very strange, isn’t he? Constantly crosses and pokes at boundaries but then draws his own lines. 

They walked over to the elevator and waited for it to come back up.

“What are you going to do about 302? Will you call the police?” Jongwoo asked.

”I’m not sure yet. He definitely deserves to be punished for what he’s done, but calling the police might not help anything. I choked him, you punched him, and we’re both unscathed. He might have a case to sue us for assault.” 

Jongwoo sighed heavily. “Even if we both explained it was self-defense, they’ll probably ask why we didn’t try a million other things besides putting our hands on him.” 

“So you understand why they’re not my first choice then.”

”I do, I’m just unsure what you can do.” 

“I’ll figure it out, but in the meantime, can I rely on you to defend me?” 

Jongwoo laughed. “Sure, if it doesn’t hurt your pride.”

”Why should it? It’s nice having someone willing to step in on my behalf.”

“Most Alphas would find it insulting or embarrassing to have an Omega defend them,” Jongwoo pointed out.

”Perhaps, but not me. It only makes you more dear to me.”

”Moon Jo,” he warned, glancing at him. 

Moon Jo smiled, amused, but didn’t say anything else. The elevator dinged and they stepped on as the doors opened. In the closed space of the elevator, Moon Jo’s scent permeated the air—likely due to his good mood. 

I’m suffocating, Jongwoo thought as they rode down the elevator to their floor together. Jongwoo wanted to bury himself in Moon Jo’s neck and inhale until he could pinpoint what it reminded him of. Jongwoo was still a bit too drunk for his own good.

The elevator doors eventually opened on their floor and Jongwoo stepped out quickly and made his way to his front door, Moon Jo following behind him. He turned around at his door, surprised by how close Moon Jo was. 

“I had a nice time tonight, Jagiya,” Moon Jo told him, stepping just a little closer. 

“Me too.” Jongwoo admitted.

“We should do this again sometime.” 

Jongwoo nodded. 

Moon Jo stared at him intensely, his eyes darting down briefly to Jongwoo’s lips then back up. He crowded into Jongwoo’s personal space, leaning down—hovering. Waiting. His lips inches from Jongwoo’s.

He’s going to kiss me, Jongwoo thought. 

Jongwoo didn’t move away.

But Moon Jo didn’t kiss him. Instead he pulled back slightly and brushed his knuckles against Jongwoo’s Adam’s apple. 

“They say that there’s a piece of forbidden fruit lodged in every man’s throat, but to me, Jagi, you are the still whole apple in the garden that Eve is offering to me. I want to put my mouth on you and bite into your tender flesh and swallow your blood.” He crowded slowly into Jongwoo’s space, dark eyes intense and focused. “But perhaps I can be sated another away? What do you think?”

Jongwoo’s heart pounded in his ears. He didn’t answer but he also didn’t flinch when Moon Jo’s plush lips pressed against gently against his. And worse, he kissed him back—just for a moment, but even when he pulled away, his lips tingled, wanting more. He cleared his throat and stepped back. “You keep crossing boundaries.”

Moon Jo smiled devilishly. “Haven’t you figured it out by now, Jagiya? I intend to steal you.” 

A thrill shot through Jongwoo after hearing him say the obvious. He shoved Moon Jo away, hearing the thud as his back hit the opposite wall.

Moon Jo seemed unfazed, amused even. 

Jongwoo aggressively stepped into Moon Jo’s personal space, pointing his finger in his face. “You’re the biggest creep I’ve ever met.”

Moon Jo smiled even bigger, his dark eyes lit with excitement. “Do you want to punish me, Jagiya?”

Jongwoo glared. ”You seem to like that idea too much.”

”So what if I do? There’s a sort of beauty in violence—in the freedom it can give. I’m yours to hurt just as you’re mine to protect.”

The sincerity in Moon Jo’s expression brought about Jongwoo’s next mistake of dropping his gaze to Moon Jo’s lips, and what pretty lips they were. His mouth tingled with desire and he kissed Moon Jo yet again—soft and slow. Deliberate. Then angry. 

Moon Jo kissed him back but it wasn’t long before he tried to change the pace. Jongwoo bit his bottom lip hard enough to draw blood—to taste it on his tongue—and backed away. 

Jongwoo spit blood at Moon Jo, watching it splatter on his face. “I’m not yours. Jieun will become my mate, not you. Kissing you like this doesn’t mean anything except that I’m drunker than I thought.” 

Moon Jo licked the blood on his lips, Jongwoo distracted by the movement. “How delightful you are like this.” He laughed but noticeably didn’t move. He looked deranged. 

Delightful?

Moon Jo’s tongue flicked out to lick off more blood.

Transfixed by the movement, Jongwoo reached forward and smeared the blood across Moon Jo’s bottom lip with his thumb, breath hitching when Moon Jo suddenly licked his thumb. Desire flickered in his groin despite all the alcohol. And that snapped Jongwoo out of his momentary insanity. 

What the hell am I doing?

He stepped away from Moon Jo, pointing at him. “Don’t kiss me again or I’ll make you regret it.”

Moon Jo smirked and stepped forward. “Promise?”

Jongwoo’s belly lurched. He huffed and hurried away. Once inside his apartment, he leaned back heavily against the door and closed his eyes. What the hell is wrong with me?

Even as he fretted internally, a part of him was tempted to go back to Moon Jo and makeout with him—bloody lip and all. He felt slick gather at his hole at the thought and he bit his lip in frustration. He didn’t even use his pheromones to tempt me to stay…if he had done that, I would’ve been helpless and totally submissive…but he wants me to trust him. Does he really have that much self control?

Or is he just pretending so I’ll relax? I can’t tell…but I did kiss him. I let him kiss me. We barely know each other and I…why did I do that? 

Moon Jo’s intense gaze before he kissed him flashed in his mind. Then the deranged glee after Jongwoo bit him—his tongue flicking out to lap up his own blood.

Again, he felt a thrill of desire.

I’m insanely attracted to him. 

It felt earth-shattering to realize it. Perhaps he should’ve realized it sooner, but Jongwoo had been too focused on just having someone to talk to, to eat with, and to hangout with that he’d ignored something so obvious. 

I let him kiss me because I was curious after all his sweet bullshit what it would be like and I kissed him back because I liked the way his lips felt on mine. 

Jongwoo stroked his head anxiously, momentarily forgetting the blood on his thumb. 

What am I going to tell Jieun? Should I tell her? What do I do about Moon Jo now?

He shook his head. I’ll decide in the morning. For now, I should get cleaned up. 

Jongwoo stumbled to the bathroom and washed blood off his thumb before using the restroom then taking a cold shower. It helped ground him, cooling his desire and sobering him. But he couldn’t stop touching his lips, couldn’t stop imagining kissing Moon Jo or the deranged and gleeful look in his eyes when Jongwoo spit blood at him. 

Jongwoo finished showering and went to change in his room. Once he was dried and dressed he climbed into bed and tried not to think anymore. After a few minutes, he heard a sudden click and looked around the room but didn’t see anything that could’ve been the source of the noise. Jongwoo turned his attention to the closet and briefly wondered why it seemed darker than normal before he closed his eyes and slowly fell sleep. 

*****

Moon Jo put the back of his hand to Jongwoo’s forehead, staring down at his sleeping form with worry. His pulse was steady and he didn’t seem to have a fever. Moon Jo sighed heavily and stroked Jongwoo’s face with his knuckles. “Sleep well, Jagiya. I will punish the devil who wants you dead. The one who dared to drug you without my permission.” 

He walked into Jongwoo’s closet, shutting the door behind him, then he walked over to the full length mirror built into the wall and pulled it open—a detail no one ever seemed to notice. He went through the opening, closing the mirror behind him carefully, then he walked through a small, tight hallway, and waited by the door that led directly into Ki Hyeok’s closet through his mirror. 

Chapter Text

Jongwoo woke up at 3PM, feeling oddly well rested, and a little confused as to why he’d slept for so long. He heard noises in the kitchen but decided to go to the bathroom first. After he washed his face, he couldn’t help but stare at himself in the mirror and reflect on the night before. 

I kissed Moon Jo…I wanted to keep kissing him…and now I’m about to go out there and greet Jieun like everything is completely normal and that I’m not falling apart. Pretend that her being gone so much isn’t making me waver…Last night was a mistake I won’t repeat.

But once again, he was haunted by the feel of Moon Jo’s lips against his. He shook his head when he caught himself touching his lips. Stop. I can’t think about that. I can’t let myself be swayed by some kissing! I’ve got a girlfriend and I’m committed to our life together. Jieun is my future, Moon Jo is just…I don’t know, convenient. 

Once he had collected his nerves, he went to the kitchen where he found Jieun eating an omelette. 

“Good morning, baby,” Jieun greeted. Her smiling face felt like a dagger to his heart. “Did you sleep well?”

“Yeah, I didn’t mean to sleep so late though,” Jongwoo said, not able to look her in the eye. “When did you get home?”

”About an hour ago. I took a shower and got hungry so I thought I’d eat before taking a nap.” 

“You got out late.”

”You probably didn’t see my text, but I accidentally fell asleep in the break room and then my dad called me in for a meeting.” Jieun took a bite of her omelette. 

Jongwoo’s frown deepened. “…What did your dad want?” 

Jieun shrugged then said, “He…asked about the days I requested off.”

Jongwoo frowned. “Well, what did you tell him?”  

“That we were going on vacation.” 

“Did he believe you?”

”…No.” 

Jongwoo hung his head in between his shoulders. 

“Don’t worry, baby, there’s no way he can interfere, my days off were approved directly by my supervisor and short of a mass casualty event, there’s no way I’ll have to go in.” 

Jongwoo sighed heavily and lifted his head. “You say that but your dad will find a way to prevent you from being with me, I just know it.”

“Have a little faith, huh?”

”I’ll try.”

She smiled and quickly finished her omelette. “I’m still a bit tired so I’m going to take a nap.”

”Okay…” He watched her get up and walk to his side of the island, debating on whether or not he should just tell her about kissing Moon Jo—if he should just bite the bullet and hope she forgave him. 

Jieun put her dishes in the sink and walked over to him while he was paralyzed by indecision. “There’s some packages for you on the counter,” She kissed his cheek—it felt like a searing brand to his skin. “Goodnight, babe.”

Packages?

”Goodnight.” He said distractedly. He went over the stand in front of two boxes waiting for him on the edge of the island, one larger than the other but they were both slim. 

Jongwoo opened the bigger box and stared in disbelief as he discovered it was a brand new laptop. He opened the second box and discovered it was an iPad. That crazy bastard actually bought me the things I wanted! I was being sarcastic! 

Jongwoo rushed to get his phone, glad Jieun had gone to the bathroom so he didn’t need to explain himself. He went back to the kitchen and saw he had a message from Moon Jo.

| Like your new toys, Jagiya? |

Jongwoo frowned and quickly shot off a reply. 

| I wasn’t being serious, you know. |

| I can’t accept these. Please take them back |

Moon Jo texted him back immediately.

| Serious or not, I bought them for you.

 I have no use for them, so just keep them.

Feel free to ask for more. | 

| You’re really annoying, you know that? |

| Annoying. Creepy. Crazy bastard. Whatever

you call me, that doesn’t change the fact that

you kissed me anyway. |

Jongwoo’s jaw dropped and he huffed in disbelief. 

| It was a reflex!!! And I was drunk! |

| Call it what you want, but that doesn’t change 

that it felt right to you in that moment or else

you wouldn’t have gone in for seconds. |

| Don’t overthink it. Just enjoy your gifts, Jagi 🖤 |

Jongwoo frowned, locked his phone, and put it face down on the counter. He looked between his gifts and grabbed onto the island, stressed and confused and angry. I didn’t actually want him to buy me these things, I was being annoying!

But as Jongwoo looked between his gifts, he couldn’t help but be reminded that he needed a laptop so he could work on his novel. 

“Damn it. I need to shut the hell up sometimes,” he grumbled. 

Jongwoo pulled the laptop from the box and started setting it up. It had half its battery, so he was able to get it ready before sneaking it into his room to charge on his desk. Then he went back to the living room and set up his new iPad. After he got it to sync with the same cloud storage he used on his laptop so he could access his novel, he downloaded some games and got lost in playing them. 

There was a knock on the door around 7PM and Jongwoo had a feeling it was Moon Jo, so he hid the tablet behind a pillow before going to answer it. It was in fact Moon Jo, a fond smile on his face when Jongwoo opened the door. 

”May I come in?” 

“Jieun is home.” 

“Unless you’re planning to kiss me again, I don’t see why that’s a problem.”

Jongwoo rolled his eyes and let him in, mostly because it felt weird to say no after getting such expensive gifts from him and partly because he had a swollen cut on his lip from Jongwoo’s teeth and he felt a bit guilty at the sight of it. No other reason. 

“How do like your gifts?” Moon Jo asked as he took off his shoes. 

”They’re…nice.” Jongwoo admitted reluctantly, grabbing a pair of house shoes for Moon Jo to use. 

“I’m glad you like them.” Moon Jo took the house shoes Jongwoo offered him. “Is there anything else you’d like?” 

“No. And I’m not comfortable with you buying me things like this.” 

“Consider it an investment in your next novel, and proof that I haven’t been bullshitting you.” Moon Jo walked further into the apartment, not stopping to look around just making a beeline for the kitchen. “And if you feel the need to pay me back still, a cup of coffee would suffice.”

Jongwoo stared at his back, feeling suspicious as he followed him to the kitchen.  As he rounded the island to get to the coffee maker, he said, ”If I asked why you did something so nice when I clearly was being sarcastic, your answer would probably just be another flowery confession, wouldn’t it?”

Moon Jo chuckled. “Perhaps.”

”Then spare me and just accept my thanks.” 

“As you wish.” 

Jongwoo set the coffee to brew, feeling a little nervous about being alone with Moon Jo but Jieun was home and even if she was sleeping, she felt like a shield against Moon Jo. Against anything untoward happening again. 

“I assume that since your girlfriend is home, you don’t want to talk about yesterday?”

Jongwoo tensed but refused to react any stronger. “What about yesterday?”

”Well, it was our first date, wasn’t it?” He lowered his voice as he asked. 

Jongwoo bristled and turned to face him. “It wasn’t a date.” He hissed. 

“Oh? But ae grabbed dinner, ate dessert, went up the the rooftop to look at the stars, and we even kissed. Isn’t that what people normally do on dates?”

Jongwoo opened his mouth to argue but found all he could was adjust his jaw in irritation. 

Moon Jo smirked. “Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone.” 

Jongwoo scoffed. “You’re shameless, aren’t you?”

”Why should I be ashamed of my affection for you?”

Jongwoo stared at him for a long moment then quietly said, “I’m nothing special. Why try so hard to steal me when you could have anyone?”

”Because I enjoy you,” Moon Jo answered softly and without hesitation. “I enjoy the light in your eyes when speak about the things you’re passionate about, how blunt you are, how playful you are, the way you laugh and the way you tease me—even the fire in your eyes when you call me names and spit my blood in my face. I simply enjoy you as you are.” 

Jongwoo softened just a little and then just a little too much. He had to suppress a smile. How could he say that? 

“Of course, I also think you’re beautiful, but that’s not the sum of my feelings.” Moon Jo added. 

Jongwoo turned away as his heart skipped and turned to watch the coffee slowly fill the pot. “You told me your father and foster mom both abused you…that you’ve never enjoyed the scents of Omegas, and that you flirted with Ki Hyeok until I came here. Do you even know what love is in any form? Or are you just chasing me because I’m shiny and new and you enjoy the hunt?” 

“I see. Because I’ve never been loved, you think I can’t recognize it. But I can, you know? I loved my father, my foster mother and even my brothers. They may not have loved me the same way but I still felt it for them. My brothers who were strange and played tricks on me, and our mother who used religion like a weapon—I truly adored them as they were because they were my whole world.” 

”Even when my father cut me with shards from the bottle he’d been drinking, I thought ‘he doesn’t mean it, he’s just drunk’. And then in the morning when he’d sobered up he would change the bandages I’d put on the night before then he’d take me to get a big breakfast and spend the whole day taking care of me. He’d act like the perfect father and that was my proof that he loved me too.”

“And then he abandoned me and my love grew stale…I didn’t shed a tear when he died. When I saw his picture at his funeral I thought ‘he got so old, when did those lines get there?’ but still, I had breakfast at the same little shop he used to take me to, I ordered what he used to get us both, and I missed him sitting in front of me with his naturally unfriendly face and lopsided eyes…and for a moment my love for him came back and I learned that love never completely fades it just becomes a dull ache inside of you.”

Jongwoo pushed off the counter and grabbed two mugs, pouring coffee as Moon Jo continued.

“I feel that same dull ache when I think of Mrs. Eom and the twins…So you see, it’s not that I don’t know how to love Jagiya, I can love quite well, I just haven’t received it back in the same way I’ve given it.”

Jongwoo retrieved the creamer from the fridge, processing everything Moon Jo had said, still not looking at him, and busying himself with fixing their coffee. Fuck. He keeps making me pity him.

“I think it’s the same for you in a way,” Moon Jo said unexpectedly. “Not with your family, but with Miss Min. She leaves you here for days on your own and barely checks on you and when she is home she uses your body for her pleasure and either sleeps the day away or leaves for work again.” 

Jongwoo slammed the spoon he’d been using to stir the sugar and creamer in their mugs against the counter. “Fine, you know what love is, but keep your damn mouth shut about my relationship.” 

“…I’m sorry, Jagiya, I didn’t mean to upset you, I’m just worried about you. You may not realize it but you smell just a little sadder everyday.”

Jongwoo huffed. He gave Moon Jo his coffee as he said, “Jieun’s work schedule will improve once the next wave of residents get hired on.”

Moon Jo accepted the coffee, his fingers brushing against Jongwoo’s. “Right. I suppose that’s my time limit then.”

Jongwoo rolled his eyes and grabbed his own coffee. He should kick Moon Jo out right now. He should tell him to go to hell and stop trying to force himself into Jongwoo’s life, but he didn’t. Because he liked having Moon Jo’s unsettling attention and…a part of him wanted to know more about him—to know every detail about his tragic life. 

He sat next to Moon Jo at the island, determined to change the subject. “Besides stalking me, how do you spend your time when I’m not around?”

Moon Jo’s lips twitched with amusement. “I typically draw or read.”

”You draw?”

”A bit. I’m not a professional by any means but I had to learn how to draw in order to sketch my jewelry designs.”

“You design jewelry? But I never see you wear any.” 

“It’s just a hobby. My creations are just for me to cherish.”

Jongwoo nodded. He noticed Moon Jo was wearing another long sleeved shirt but the sleeve had caught, partially revealing one of his scars. “Can I see them?”

”Another day perhaps.” Moon Jo took a sip of his coffee. “My apartment is a mess right now.” 

Jongwoo reached over and pulled down Moon Jo’s sleeve to see the scars in their entirety. He’d seen them before but now he knew exactly what they were from and they bothered him. His feelings may be confusing and unclear around Moon Jo, but he wasn’t so heartless as to not care. 

Moon Jo set his coffee down and offered his arm to Jongwoo—letting him run his fingers over the scars and openly gawk at them. 

“You always hide them. Except when we’re on the rooftop…why do you let me put sunscreen on them if you hate them so much?” 

“Well, at first it was because I was interested in how you would react to seeing them but you didn’t say anything. Instead, you made a comment about how muscular I am as if they weren’t there. I liked that.” Moon Jo said. “People here are good at feigning politeness but whenever someone catches a glimpse of my scars they always ask and become uncomfortable when I tell them my father gave them to me.”

”People shouldn’t be so nosy if they can’t handle the answer.” Jongwoo pulled Moon Jo’s sleeve over his scars. “I didn’t ask because the answer had to be terrible and you were a complete stranger who didn’t owe me one.” 

Moon Jo smiled. “You say things like that and wonder how I could like you.” 

Jongwoo frowned. “It’s only human decency, isn’t it?”

”What was it you said in the car?…That hell is other people? Too many people will forgo decency in favor of their own curiosity.” 

“I guess so.” Jongwoo took a sip of his coffee and they both let the topic drop so they could drink a little more of their coffee. 

“What happened to your arm?” Moon Jo asked suddenly.

”Hm?” Jongwoo looked at his arms until Moon Jo directed his attention to a bruise on his upper arm. He frowned. “I don’t know.” 

“Did you get a shot recently?” 

Jongwoo shook his head. 

“It looks like an injection site but perhaps a bug stung you in your sleep. Do you feel alright?”

“I feel fine.” 

“Your arm isn’t sore?”

Jongwoo tried moving his arm and felt okay until he tried to raise it over his head and he flinched at the sudden pain. “Well, it’s a little sore.”

”Strange.” 

“Yeah…” What the hell happened to my arm?

Moon Jo reached into his pants and pulled out a band aid. “Want me to put this on for you?”

Why does he have a band aid? Jongwoo nodded. 

Moon Jo pulled off the packaging and revealed a hello kitty band aid.

Jongwoo laughed at the sight of it. It didn’t fit Moon Jo at all to have something so cute. 

“What?” Moon Jo asked, pulling off the tabs. 

“Why do you have a band aid with this pattern?”

Moon Jo glanced at the band aid then stuck it on Jongwoo’s arm. “Some of my patients are children. Before I shut my clinic down for renovations I had a cut on my face and one of my patients gave me a few band aids to cover it until it healed. I didn’t realize they were so cute and childish looking until I saw the one I let her put on my face.” 

Jongwoo laughed, even harder as Moon Jo met his gaze and he pictured the same Hello Kitty band aid on his face. 

Moon Jo smiled at him. 

Jongwoo smiled back. Like this he seems so normal…When he’s like this I actually feel close to him and—

"Oh, Mr. Seo." Jieun said. Jongwoo froze. "I didn't know you were coming over."

Moon Jo's lips twitched with amusement at Jongwoo’s reaction then he looked at her. "I was feeling hungry but didn't want to eat alone so I thought Jongwoo might want to join me since he's usually alone at this time."

"How nice of you. I need some time to get ready, but why don't we all have dinner together?”

Jongwoo tensed even harder.

”That’s a wonderful idea.” Moon Jo flashed a grin at Jongwoo. 

Jongwoo wanted to strangle him. 

+++++

They ended up going to a pizza place nearby, Jongwoo and Jieun sitting next to each other while Moon Jo sat opposite of them. Jongwoo focused on eating, forcing the other two talk as he stuffed his face. As he listened, he understood a bit more why Jieun thought Moon Jo was normal—Jieun had brought up a neighbor on a lower floor she had met in their buildings gym before Jongwoo had moved in and that had escalated into them gossiping about her and other residents in the building.

“Did you hear about the couple on the fifth floor?” Moon Jo asked suddenly. 

“What about them?” Jieun asked. 

“They broke up.”

Jieun gasped. “No! Oh my god, why?”

“Apparently, he cheated with the babysitter,” Moon Jo answered with appropriate disgust.

How can he gossip like a teenager? Jongwoo thought. And more importantly why doesn’t he gossip with me? All he does is hit on me.

”Wait, isn’t she barely legal?”

Moon Jo nodded.

Jieun shook her head. “Disgusting.” 

Jongwoo hummed in agreement—a noise that seemed to draw Moon Jo’s attention to him. 

“Jongwoo, I’ve been meaning to ask if I could have my annotated version of your novel back?” 

Jongwoo flinched at the sound of his own name and swallowed his food. “Yeah, I can give it back tonight.” 

“Oh, I forgot, that you’re a fan of Jongwoo’s book.” Jieun said. “He mentioned you attended his book signing event.” 

“Yes, I’m a big fan of Jongwoo’s novel,” Moon Jo said. “He’s a very talented writer and I find myself enthralled by his writing every time I pick it up. You should be proud to have such a skilled partner." 

Moon Jo stared at Jongwoo fondly and Jongwoo looked away, fighting back a smile. The praise felt...really nice. 

Why does he have to look at me like that? Why does he speak about me so affectionately? It’s messing with my head.

“I am,” Jieun said, stroking the back of Jongwoo’s head.

Jongwoo allowed his smile to slip but turned it towards Jieun.

Jieun smiled back then looked at Moon Jo. “What about you, Mr. Seo? I know you don’t have a mate, but do you have a partner?”

Moon Jo shook his head. “I’m afraid I haven’t been so lucky in love.”

”A handsome man like you? That’s hard to believe.”

Moon Jo smiled at the compliment. “Love isn’t always easy. Sometimes there are factors beyond our control.”

”True…I hope you find someone, Mr. Seo.”

”I do too.” His gaze slid over to Jongwoo, Jieun oblivious as she took a bite of pizza.

Jongwoo grabbed his drink and looked away. I hate this. 

“Are you still fighting with that coworker of yours, Miss Min?”

Jongwoo frowned. 

Jieun covered her mouth and chewed quickly before swallowing. “No, we resolved things. He agreed to stop eating in the dorm if I stopped watching videos without headphones.”

”What happened?” Jongwoo asked, confused.

Jieun looked at him. ”Uh, well my coworker Hao, really likes eating durian in the shared dorms, and I got onto him about the smell, but then he started complaining about how loud I am when he’s trying to sleep. We argued about it for a week but our boss forced us to sit down and talk, and we came to an agreement and haven’t had any problems since.” She shrugged as if it wasn’t a big deal.

Jongwoo quirked his brow and gestured to Moon Jo with his head. ”And how come Mr. Seo knew about this when I didn’t?”

Jieun gave him a strange look. ”Mr. Seo and I had coffee together on the rooftop when I first moved in and that’s when my coworker and I had that issue. I just didn’t think to tell you because it was such a petty thing and it got resolved quickly.”

Jongwoo didn’t like the thought of them hanging out like that—couldn’t stand that Jieun would tell someone else about her problems, no matter how minor, and not him. He was her boyfriend, he should know mundane things like that!

“And we haven’t gotten a chance to talk like this since then so I thought I would ask,” Moon Jo added nonchalantly.

Jongwoo nodded. 

“Are you upset, Oppa?” Jieun asked gently.

Jongwoo sighed. “I just wish you would tell me stuff like that. I hardly get to see you and when I do all you want to do is—“ He cut off, and looked at Moon Jo, realizing he was about to parrot what Moon Jo had said earlier. 

Moon Jo just smirked and raised his brow as if to taunt him—as if to ask, “Why won’t you finish that sentence?” 

Jongwoo shook his head and looked at Jieun. “I just miss you telling me about your life, that’s all.” He grabbed his drink, feeling awkward and needing an excuse not to talk anymore. 

Jieun grabbed his arm, squeezing gently. “Oh, baby…I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to stop telling you things, I’m just always so busy that I forget about all the things I want to talk about.”

Great, now she’s gonna coddle me in front of him…kill me.

“It’s fine, we’ll talk about it later,” Jongwoo said, quickly adding, “I don’t want to spoil dinner for Mr. Seo.” 

“Oh, I don’t mind,” Moon Jo said. “Sometimes a third party is needed for impartial judgment.”

Jongwoo shot him a glare. Asshole.

“You’re right, baby, we should talk about this privately.” 

The atmosphere was a bit awkward as they went quiet and focused on eating, but eventually it settled into something bearable, at least until Jieun said something that made Jongwoo almost choke on his food.

”I don’t meant to be rude, but what happened to your lip, Mr. Seo? 

Moon Jo glanced at Jongwoo, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Jongwoo, didn’t tell you?”

Jongwoo glared even as his heart pounded in his ears. He wouldn’t tell her, right?

”Tell me what?” Jieun asked confused.

Moon Jo turned his gaze on her. “I suppose he was just a bit embarrassed. He was drunk last night and I had to help him get in the car but he fought with me a little and accidentally hit me with his elbow.”

Jongwoo relaxed slightly at the lie. 

”Oh my god. Oppa! Why were you being so difficult?” 

Jongwoo bit his tongue and shrugged. “I had a few too many.” 

“Did you apologize?”

Jongwoo bristled. I didn’t even hit him!

”It’s quite alright. It's just a small wound,” Moon Jo said. “And some of the responsibility falls on me for not listening to him when he told me not to touch him.”

Damn you! Now I just look like a bigger jerk!

”No, I…shouldn’t have hit you,” Jongwoo forced himself to say. “I’m really sorry, Mr. Seo.” 

Moon Jo smirked, eyes lit with amusement. “I accept your apology. I know you didn’t really mean to do it.” 

Dickhead.

”Thank you for being so forgiving, Mr. Seo,” Jieun said. “I’ll pay for your meal.”

”You don’t have to go through so much trouble for me,” Moon Jo said.

”I insist,” Jieun told him. “Just this once, please. I feel really bad about your lip.”

Moon Jo glanced at Jongwoo.

Jongwoo nodded.

“Well, if you insist…” Moon Jo replied. 

“Are we all done?” Jieun asked. They both nodded, Jongwoo stealing one last bite before they all got up. After Jieun paid, she decided to use the restroom while they went on ahead to the car.

”Are you upset with me, Jagiya?” Moon Jo asked once they were in the car. 

“Yes.” Direct and blunt. “How could you tell her I hit you?” 

“Well, I couldn’t tell her the truth, could I? She might not let you be around me anymore.” 

Jongwoo huffed in frustration. “So you made me look like the asshole. Very clever.”

Moon Jo chuckled. “But that’s not the only reason you’re upset with me is it?”

“You were trying to make Jieun look bad for not telling me things.” 

Moon Jo nodded shamelessly. “I’m afraid I couldn’t help myself. Any chance there is to undermine my competition, I’ll take.” 

Jongwoo covered his face with his hands. “Annoying bastard.” He sighed. “Is there anything you haven’t told me about your relationship with my girlfriend?” 

“…Did she tell you about the resident that cuts their toenails on their bed and just leaves them there?”

Jongwoo uncovered his face. “What? Do you two just gossip like school girls?”

”What else would I have to talk to her about? How much I want her boyfriend?” 

Jongwoo rolled his eyes. 

“Tell me, what do you find upsetting about my brief interactions with Miss Min exactly?”

“I just—! I don’t like you knowing things about my girlfriend that I don’t.”

“Well, you know things about me no else knows, and I probably know things you haven’t told her. Isn’t that just how people get close?” 

“I don’t want you to be close to her.” 

Moon Jo titled his head curiously. “Why? She’s my neighbor just like you.”

”Not just like me,” Jongwoo said. 

Moon Jo smiled. “You’re right. She isn’t special to me like you. She’s dull and shallow and her scent makes me nauseous.” 

“Don’t talk about her like that.” 

“I’m only trying to say that she doesn’t hold my interest the way you do…She isn’t the one that kisses me and spits blood in my face, or the one who traces my scars gently, or the one who makes me want a mate for the first time in my life.”

Jongwoo stared at him. He was losing the reason for this conversation in the first place, getting sucked into those dark eyes and that obnoxious smile.

“She’s not the one I want to steal.” 

His gaze was intense and it made Jongwoo’s heart beat faster. “Then only be close to me.” 

“Do you think you have the right to ask when you’re still hers?” Moon Jo challenged.

“I do.” Jongwoo said firmly, heart skipping a beat.

Moon Jo’s gaze softened, his smile growing. “Okay, Jagiya. I’ll be close to only you.” 

Jongwoo swallowed nervously. This whole conversation had spiraled out of his control. I just wanted to…I don’t know, tell him to stop knowing things about Jieun and instead I—

The car door behind Jongwoo’s seat opened suddenly and Jieun got in the back. 

“Sorry, I hope you guys didn’t wait long,” Jieun apologized. 

Moon Jo looked to her and shook his head. “Not at all. Shall we go home now?” 

+++++

Once they were back in their apartment, alone, Jieun made them coffee and they ate a couple of cake slices Jieun had brought home with her that morning. Jieun had then started talking to him about work—an obvious gesture of apology that he still appreciated—and Jongwoo was able to put Moon Jo in the back of his mind. For awhile at least.

He got up from his seat at the island to clear the dishes then Jieun suddenly asked, staring down at her phone, "Oppa, does Mr. Seo always look at you like that?"

Jongwoo’s heart skipped. “…Like what?”

”So…intensely.” 

Jongwoo set the dishes in the sink.“Yeah, I guess.”

”No wonder you think he has a crush on you.”

Jongwoo didn’t like the way she said it. “I’m pretty sure he does.”

”I dunno, I think he just finds you interesting—like a fan, you know?”

Frustration shot through Jongwoo. He wanted to yell, ‘I know he likes me! He’s trying to steal me from you, he said it himself! He kissed me yesterday!’ but as he glanced back and watched her casually scroll on her phone, completely unbothered and totally oblivious, something inside of him seemed to crack—a thousand little ripples made without shattering. 

What’s the point? She won’t believe me anyway or find some way to dismiss it like she always does. 

Jongwoo huffed in annoyance and went to shower. When he emerged fresh from the shower and went back to his room, he heard his phone buzz on his bedside table and went to check it. 

| Want to have a beer with me on the roof after she goes to sleep? |

Jongwoo didn’t hesitate, still peeved about earlier. | I’ll meet you there at midnight. |

Jongwoo was hit with a wave of pheromones as Jieun stepped into the room. He locked his phone and casually set it down to dry his hair. 

Jieun hugged him from behind, her scent washing over him, drawing him to her. “Oppa, I’m not worried about Mr. Seo because I know you’re mine.”

“You’re not worried because you think it’s all in my head,” he muttered.

“Baby,” she protested, extending the vowel cutely. “I’m sorry. I just don’t see what you do. But I’m not around much, so what do I know? Hm?” 

“So why can’t you just believe me?” He questioned, irritated. 

“Are you trying to make me jealous, baby?” 

“I’m not. I just want you to care if someone else is hitting on me.” 

Jieun kissed his neck, pressing her hips into his—pressing her growing erection against him. “Mm. I do care, but what can I do if I don’t witness it?”

Jongwoo leaned back against her, eyes slipping closed. It was getting hard to think. "At least curse or act angry."

She nuzzled against him and hummed, her hands trailing down his stomach. "Should I call Mr. Seo a pervert for going for someone nine years younger than him? A psycho for wanting what's already mine?" 

Her hand slipped into his pants and her hand wrapped around his cock. Jongwoo gasped softly.  

“Hm? Or should I just fuck you until you forget anyone else exists aside from you and me?” 

Jongwoo folded. He always did against her pheromones, but despite ending up on his stomach with his ass in the air, he was able to draw a line when it mattered. “Don’t knot me.” 

Jieun pulled out before her knot swelled, collapsing onto the bed next to him with a loud groan. They both laid there panting for a while. 

“You always let me knot you. Are you still mad at me, baby?” Jieun asked gently. 

“A little,” he admitted. 

She took a breath then said, “I’m sorry. I just think that Mr. Seo isn’t a threat. He’s like the most harmless Alpha I’ve ever met.”

Jongwoo wanted to laugh. Moon Jo? Harmless? 

“That’s easy for an Alpha to say,” Jongwoo pointed out. 

“True, but you don’t like the scents of other Alphas, right?”

”Right…but his—“

”So it’s not like you’ll submit easily even if he were to try something.” 

“But I’m about to go into heat and his sc—“

”Which I’m going to be around for.”

Jongwoo gave up trying to tell her about his scent. ”And if you’re not and I beg Mr. Seo to fuck me and he claims me because you haven’t?”

Jieun sat up and stared down at him. “Do you want to sleep with him or something? Are you just trying to make an excuse beforehand so if you do it, I’ll blame myself instead of you?”

Panic and confusion shot through Jongwoo—he may have kissed Moon Jo but his worries didn’t stem from there. “What? Why would you even say that?”

“Well I just don’t understand why you’re so sure you’ll beg him to have sex.”

Jongwoo looked down at nothing in particular. “Because, last time I really didn’t want to have sex—not with Jaeho, but I did. The truth is that I don’t have a choice when I’m like that, Jieun. If you’re not here, I’m afraid I won’t be able to stop myself.”

“Ah, I see,  now that there’s a hot Alpha nearby, you’re scared your heat will make you offer yourself up to him.”

Jongwoo wasn’t sure how to reply to that so he sat up and stared at her.

Jieun said something unexpected. “But you wouldn’t cheat on me again in that state. Not after what happened last time, you’d make yourself too sick at the thought of it.”

Jongwoo didn’t know why, but the casual way she said it made him feel a bit ill. He quickly changed tactics. “Jieun, can’t you claim me before my heat? That way, even if you’re gone, my body will only crave you.” 

“Oppa, we can’t go against my father’s wishes, are you crazy? Do you want us to lose everything?”

”But you’ll probably get me pregnant soon anyway, why can’t we just jump the gun a little?” 

“Because my scent will change the second we do that and I can’t avoid my father endlessly waiting to see if you’re pregnant or not.”

Jongwoo huffed and looked up at the ceiling, slowly falling back onto the mattress. 

“But why does her father’s opinion matter more than what you both want?”

Jongwoo was starting to wonder that too. Was it really such a ridiculous idea for the two of them to make a living on their own? A life on their own? 

“Baby, I’m sorry that I can’t do what you’re asking,” Jieun said. “But I’ll be here for your heat so you don’t have to worry about begging Mr. Seo for anything, cos I’m going to give you everything you need, okay?” 

“…Okay.” He said, defeated. He sniffed and got up. “I’m going to go clean up.”

”Okay…”

Once he was under the warm spray of water, he couldn’t help but dwell on everything she’d said to him—particularly stuck on the accusation that he wanted to sleep with Moon Jo and was just warning her that he would if she wasn’t there like she promised. 

I can’t believe she would say that. I know I kissed him but I wouldn’t use my heat as a preemptive excuse or a threat to sleep with someone. I’m worried I’ll beg him against my will just because he’s an Alpha whose scent makes my mouth water and he’s convenient just like Jaeho was. 

But I guess it’s a bit different because Moon Jo is…someone I wouldn’t mind kissing again.

Jongwoo didn’t want to consider that but now he had to. He’d liked kissing Moon Jo and given half a chance, he would probably do it again—the biggest problem being that if he did that on his heat he might give him everything. Might become Moon Jo’s just because he wanted him. 

Things would be easier if Jieun would just claim me or even if…even if she were just here with me everyday instead of that damn hospital! If she had just moved to Busan with me after what happened last time, she probably could’ve found a job there under someone who wasn’t influenced by her father and we could be mated and married with a pup on the way!

I wouldn’t be here dreading the thought of throwing myself at a man who wants me—a man I seem to have a weakness for as I keep letting him in closer. Why can’t she ever understand me? And why does it seem like she thinks I’m lying for attention about Moon Jo being interested in me? Does one cup of coffee and seeing each other briefly in the building really make him that harmless in her eyes? 

Is it because he’s an Alpha? 

Jongwoo scoffed, anger rising in his chest. He clenched his fists. It’s because he’s an Alpha. As long as he doesn’t say he wants me to her face, she’ll always think I’m making it up because Omegas are always overdramatic in her mind! 

Jongwoo only got angrier as he showered. By the time he was out, Jieun was fast asleep, so he got changed and headed to the rooftop early. He stared out at the city and wished midnight would come sooner—he really needed a beer and someone to rant to. 

Moon Jo arrived fifteen minutes before midnight with two beers in hand and a black plastic bag in the other. 

Jongwoo yanked one of the beers out of Moon Jo’s hands, opened it, and chugged it. 

“Did something happen, Jagiya?” Moon Jo questioned.

Jongwoo stopped chugging and let out a satisfied sigh, needing a second to catch his breath before he said, “She noticed the way you look at me but she makes it sound like I’m reading too much into it.”

“You and I both know that you’re not.”

“And she thinks you’re harmless.”

Moon Jo grinned as if it was the funniest joke he’d ever heard. “She’s really oblivious, isn’t she?”

”Or she just doesn’t care,” Jongwoo grumbled. “It felt she just thought I was making it up for attention—poor little Omega is lonely and wants to make his Alpha jealous! Its bullshit! I know you want me!”

Moon Jo studied him for a moment then asked, “Why didn’t you tell her that I kissed you?” 

Jongwoo took a sip of his beer, guilt washing over him but it wasn’t enough to get rid of his anger. “I was going to. But I was struggling to figure out how to bring it up and then she went to bed. And then, earlier…she kept cutting me off when I was trying to explain that I actually like your scent.” 

Moon Jo tilted his head. “Why were you trying to tell her that?”

Jongwoo sighed. He hasn’t had any control over any single conversation today. “Because I’m about to go into heat and I was trying to tell her that I was worried about what I might do if she isn’t around. That I might…beg you to…mate with me.”

”I see…Because you like my scent?”

”And because we’ve already kissed and when I’m in heat, I really can’t control myself. I can’t trust myself or what I might ask for.” 

“You’re afraid that if she leaves you alone you’ll beg me to make you mine even though that’s not what you really want.”

Jongwoo nodded, too embarrassed to confirm it out loud.

”And she thinks you’re worried over nothing, is that it? She doesn’t think I would actually want you.”

Jongwoo nodded again, frustrated all over again. 

“How thoughtless of her.” 

“Yeah, and it’s even more frustrating because of what happened last time! I thought she finally understood after I—“Jongwoo cut off. Am I really going to tell him about that?

“Jagi?” Moon Jo prompted gently. “Are you alright?”

Jongwoo decided to just tell him—to offer up another piece of himself for consumption and see if Moon Jo still found him appetizing. He chugged the last of his beer. Then turned to face Moon Jo. “During my last heat, Jieun left me home alone because of some last minute surgery and I was miserable. I had stopped taking suppressants for the first time in years because we had decided to start trying for a baby and we figured my heat would be the best time to start.”

”But my senior from school happened to stop by that day and I…I begged him t-to…” Jongwoo couldn’t seem to say it. “I begged him. He’s just a Beta, but it didn’t matter to me because he had a cock and that’s all I wanted.”

Moon Jo looked at him with concern. 

“Jieun showed up during our fifth round together and kicked him out without a word. And then she fucked and knotted me until that feverish feeling left me and I passed out...When I came to my senses I cried and begged her to forgive me but she wasn’t angry with me, she said she understood, that I couldn’t control myself, but that just made me feel worse.”

”I mean, I cheated on her, how could she forgive me? How could she not be hurt, huh?” 

Moon Jo reached forward slowly and wiped Jongwoo’s cheek with his thumb, pulling back and showing him the tear he’d collected. “Jagiya…”

Jongwoo whipped around and started wiping his eyes, God, what’s wrong with me? When did I even start crying?

Moon Jo wrapped his arms around Jongwoo’s waist, pulling him into a hug. His chin rested on Jongwoo’s shoulder, his body warm against Jongwoo’s back. “Don’t hide from me, Jagiya. Cry if you need to cry. I’ll keep you safe until you’re done.” 

Jongwoo grabbed Moon Jo’s arm with the intent to rip it off but instead he simply held onto him, a wave of emotion he hadn’t been aware of crashing through him. What...what's wrong with me? Why am I like this? 

Jongwoo couldn't stop crying and all he could do was let it out while Moon Jo held him. He didn’t understand why always got like this when he thought about that day. Of course, it wasn’t easy to cheat like that, but his reaction was always stronger than he expected.

Jongwoo didn't know how long he cried for but when he was finally done he lightly tapped Moon Jo's arm and was released from his hold. Jongwoo sniffed and walked unsteadily towards a lounge chair, Moon Jo placing a hand on his back to steady him and help him sit down. Moon Jo squatted down in front of him and handed Jongwoo a beer that seemed to appear from nowhere. 

Jongwoo smiled weakly as he took it. “Is this how you comfort people?”

“For tonight,” he answered. “Jagi, what happened with your senior from school wasn’t your fault. Look at you—you’re sick with guilt and shame all on your own, but the one who should feel like that is your senior from school.” 

“But I begged him.” 

“He’s a Beta. He could’ve kept his hands to himself and left.” 

“Maybe, but I can’t change what happened that day.” Jongwoo cracked open his beer. “I can’t change that I kissed you either. I can’t changed that I wanted to…I guess I'm just someone who cheats.” 

Moon Jo lightly squeezed his knee. “I don’t think that’s true.” 

“But isn’t that who you’re asking me to be?” Jongwoo asked. 

“I just mean that those situations are different.”

Jongwoo eyed him curiously. "You still want me after learning how I let a Beta use me?"

Moon Jo quirked his brow. "Why? Am I supposed to think less of you after hearing that story?"

"I'm pathetic when I'm in heat."

Moon Jo shook his head. "You were vulnerable and in need. Your would be Alpha should've protected you better."

Protected? He makes it sound like Jaeho took advantage of me but that's not what happened, I begged him for it. 

“She should’ve refused to go in and be with you or she should’ve claimed you at the very least so you could’ve had a defense against any random person who found you. I’ve heard claimed Omegas have a stronger mental will to be only with their Alpha.” 

Jongwoo blinked at him, and then he laughed. 

“What’s so funny?”

It took Jongwoo a moment to collect himself then he said, “You sound just like me that day before she left and earlier tonight. I keep asking her and she keeps saying we can’t go against her father’s wishes.” 

“She should start living for herself and for you.” 

Jongwoo nodded. He sighed heavily, feeling much better now. “Add dead father to the list of perks of being yours.” 

Moon Jo laughed, looking as if he was startled by it. 

Jongwoo smiled and chugged half of his beer greedily—still needing something to soothe him—then offered it to Moon Jo. Moon Jo opened his mouth but didn't make to grab the beer or to speak. Jongwoo huffed but pressed the can to Moon Jo’s lips and titled it slightly so he could drink. 

Jongwoo stared down into Moon Jo's dark eyes and he felt temptation stir deep within him. Desire. He sniffed again and boldly grabbed onto Moon Jo’s jaw with his free hand, forcing him to lift his chin as he tilted the can further to make the beer go down faster. Moon Jo's lips curled with a slight smile as he drank.

Once the can was empty, Jongwoo set it on the floor but didn't let go of Moon Jo. He tilted Moon Jo’s chin up and placed a soft kiss to his Adam’s apple, pulling away slowly and lowering Moon Jo’s chin so he met Jongwoo’s gaze. “I’m starting to lose sight of who the apple is,” he admitted. 

Moon Jo smiled. “As long as my teeth haven’t pierced your flesh, it’s still you, Jagiya.”

Jongwoo sniffed and stroked the side of Moon Jo's neck. “I’m rotten and bitten into all over.” 

“You’re not. You’re whole and shiny and sweet.” 

Jongwoo stared at him for a moment and kissed him on the mouth. How could he not when Moon Jo was being like this? He felt Moon Jo kiss him back and he brought his hands to cup his face and bring him in closer. He smelled Moon Jo’s pheromones flood the air but they weren’t trying to dominate or persuade him, they were just happy. 

Jongwoo found it cute. He slowly pulled away from the kiss and looked down at Moon Jo, his dark eyes soft and intense. I like the way he looks at me. But… “I should go home.” 

“I’ll walk you.” 

Jongwoo's gaze slipped to Moon Jo's mouth—wanting just one more kiss. He could feel the alcohol creeping in under his skin. Would probably feel it when he stood up. 

"Or would you rather me carry you on my back?"

Impulsively, Jongwoo said, "Carry me."

Moon Jo turned around and Jongwoo climbed onto his back, closing his eyes and inhaling his scent. God, he smells particularly good right now.

Jongwoo felt himself salivate, felt heat in his skin. He sighed softly and relished in Moon Jo's scent the entire walk back to his apartment. It’s so tempting to just bite him and make him mine for a while…but I shouldn’t. Instead, Jongwoo placed a soft kiss to the back of Moon Jo’s neck, his sharpened teeth grazing the skin lightly when he opened his mouth. 

“You’ll make me hard if you keep that up,” Moon Jo warned bluntly. Jongwoo could feel the goose bumps under his lips.

Jongwoo sighed and closed his mouth, nuzzling into the back of Moon Jo’s head and inhaling deeply. “Why do you have to smell so damn good, huh? Lousy bastard.”

Moon Jo chuckled. “Careful, your precious girlfriend might hear.”

Jongwoo snorted and finally pulled away from Moon Jo, realizing belatedly that they were in front of his apartment. “She fucked me and fell asleep. She won’t be waking up until her obnoxious alarm goes off.”

Moon Jo gently set him on the ground then turned to face him. “I won’t ask you to stop sleeping with her, but won’t you kiss me one more time?”

Jongwoo stared up at him, contemplating what he wanted to do. Not only had he crossed the line with Moon Jo a few times but he was already so far past it that it was barely a dot. Would kissing Moon Jo again really make a difference? 

It wouldn’t. Not really, but…

Jongwoo hugged him instead. He knew just what to say to redraw the line for now. “Not tonight, Jagiya.”

Moon Jo wrapped his arms around Jongwoo and hugged him tightly, nuzzling against his head. “You don’t play fair, do you? How can I go against you when you call for me like that?”

I’m screwed, Jongwoo thought.

*****

Moon Jo watched through the closet door as Jongwoo avoided that woman’s embrace and got on his phone. It’d been an hour since they parted but it seemed Jongwoo was having trouble settling despite the alcohol in his system. After a moment, he felt his phone buzz softly in his pocket and retreated further back into the closet before checking it. 

| Thank you for listening to me tonight. 

I’m sorry I cried like that 😅 I don’t 

get why I did that lol |

Moon Jo frowned. He doesn’t seem to realize the truth of what happened to him…Oh, Jagiya, it seems I’ll need to protect you the way that woman refuses to. I just need more information first. 

Moon Jo texted him back.

| I’m always here for you, Jagi.

Never apologize for expressing 

what you feel, I want to see it all. |

| More bullshit. |

| But at least it sounds sweet. |

| 🤍 |

Moon Jo smiled. Jongwoo had softened to him quite quickly—the advantage of being ever present for someone all alone. | 🖤 | 

He pocketed his phone and went through the mirror back into Ki Hyeok’s place. He went to Ki Hyeok’s room and checked his computer, making sure all evidence of their connection to each other was wiped as well as deleting and disconnecting things that he shouldn’t have access to. On nights like this, he was grateful to that porn addict Mr. Hong for teaching him how to hide every trace of himself electronically. 

Jongwoo woke up alone and got up only to use the restroom before crawling back in bed and getting on his phone under the blankets. He didn’t want to do anything but lay in bed all day and try not to think about how he had kissed Moon Jo multiple times in the past two days or how frustrated he was that Jieun seemed to think Moon Jo’s attraction to him was all in his head. 

Or to dwell on him asking Moon Jo to only be close to him. Or anything at all really. 

The doorbell rang about thirty minutes later and Jongwoo groaned. He forced himself out of bed. It was probably Moon Jo. 

”I’m not feeling well today so—“ Jongwoo cut off as he realized a female police officer was at the door. “Sorry, I thought you were someone else.”

She smiled politely. Her scent was neutral, meaning she was a Beta. "Hello. I'm Officer Seo Junghwa. I'm looking for Miss Min Jieun?"

"She's at work."

"I see. Do you live here by chance?"

"I do. I'm Yoon Jongwoo, I'm Jieun’s boyfriend."

She nodded. "Would you mind answering a few questions, Mr. Yoon?"

"Uh, sure, about what?"

“I’m here looking for your neighbor Mr. Yoo Ki Hyeok. He failed to report in to his parole officer this morning and didn't show up to work yesterday. We've attempted multiple times to reach him but he isn't answering. Do you know where he might be?" 

"We aren't close, so I don’t have any idea.”

”I see…Have you noticed anything strange the last couple of days? Seen or heard anything?”

”I haven’t." If I tell her he's been following us, she might uncover our affair—God is it really an affair? 

”I see…” She shifted awkwardly. “I know this might seem like a strange question, Mr. Yoon, but perhaps, have you noticed any sort of injection site on your body?”

Jongwoo frowned. “Why?”

“Well…I don’t know how to say this Mr. Yoon, but Mr. Yoo has been convicted before for breaking and entering. He would target his neighbors, learn their habits, then sneak in while they were sleeping and inject them with a drug to make sure they didn’t wake up while he robbed them blind.”

Jongwoo stared at her in disbelief. “What? Seriously? A psycho like that lives next door?”

“I’m afraid so.”

Jongwoo remembered the strange mark on his arm and couldn’t help but put his hand over it before lifting his sleeve up to reveal the Hello Kitty band aid. “Now that you mention it, I woke up with a mark on my arm yesterday.”

”Can I see it?”

Jongwoo partially pulled the band aid off and turned so she could get a better look. 

"Does it hurt at all?"

"It's a little sore."

"And you don't know how you got it?"

Jongwoo shook his head. "I just woke up with it."

She looked at Jongwoo. “Would you mind coming with me so we can test whether or not you've been drugged?"

“Ah...Sure, but can I have a few minutes to change?”

"Of course. I'll wait downstairs in the parking lot. If you could also look around to see if anything's missing..."

Jongwoo nodded. "I'll get ready quickly." 

She nodded and smiled before leaving. 

Jongwoo shut the door and covered his mouth in horror. What the fuck? That psycho broke in here and drugged me? It had to be because of Moon Jo right? But is anything missing? Was he just gonna hurt me because I hit him?

Jongwoo looked around the apartment quickly, but nothing seemed to be missing, Jieun's jewelry box was untouched and all of their electronics were in their places.  He definitely made it in here to drug me but nothing is missing and nothing happened to me...Did something happen to him?

+++++

Jongwoo watched as a nurse took a blood sample from his arm, wondering if they really would find something in his system. Ki Hyeok seemed a little weird, and definitely obsessive, but I never expected this. 

Just as the Nurse left, Officer Seo returned from updating her partner about the situation. "So, Mr. Yoon, you said nothing was missing from your apartment, correct?"

"Correct."

"Then if Mr. Yoo really did break into your apartment and drug you but didn’t take anything, that begs the question, what happened to him?" Officer Seo sighed, at a loss. 

Jongwoo didn’t have any answers for her. "…How did Mr. Yoo get caught before?"

"By pure chance,” she answered. “One of his victims happened to be diabetic and her body broke down the drug at an accelerated rate. She was quite wealthy and kept her most expensive valuables in a safe which he was still in the middle of cracking when she spotted him and called the police."

"He served five years in prison for attempted robbery and he was believed to have committed several other robberies but there wasn't any physical evidence in those others cases so we couldn’t charge him with anything else, not if we wanted to guarantee he served jail time."

"Whoa..."

"That was my reaction too," She said, then, "So if you were in fact drugged by Mr. Yoo, it can be reasonably concluded that he was planning to rob you based on his previous victims, that combined with not showing up for a meeting with his parole officer should be enough to get a warrant to search his place, and hopefully find clues as to what happened to him.”

Jongwoo nodded. “That’s good. I hope you find him quickly.”

“Before I let you go, do you happen to know anyone that Mr. Yoo was close to in the building?”

Jongwoo’s heart skipped. “I just moved in so I don’t really know anything. I only met Mr. Yoo a couple times and he was rude to me.”

“Rude?”

”He said that Omegas are easy and…I don’t want to say the rest, but he said awful things about Omegas each time he saw me.” 

“He said that unprompted?”

“Well I was putting sunscreen on my neighbor as a favor and he acted like I was cheating on my girlfriend.”

”Strange. Who was the neighbor?”

”Mr. Seo in 304.” Jongwoo’s heart beat faster as he said it. He couldn’t lie to the police but he could be vague about how much he actually knew and let Moon Jo sort it out later.

Officer Seo made a note in her notepad. “Well, thank you for coming down here with me. I know this was a bit inconvenient but you really helped. I’ll call you when we have the results of your blood work. Could you give me your number? 

Jongwoo nodded and she handed him her phone. He entered his number quickly and she walked him outside, telling him to have a good day before going back inside. Jongwoo started walking to the nearest coffee shop and pulled out his phone to call Moon Jo. 

“Jagiya, do you need something?”

“Can you come pick me up?”

“Of course. Where are you?”

“I’ll send you the address of a cafe nearby. Call me when you’re here.”

*****

Moon Jo pocketed his phone and stared down at Ki Hyeok. His face was bruised and bloodied and nearly unrecognizable. “I appreciate your honesty today, as grotesque as it was, but I’m afraid it’s sealed your fate.”

Ki Hyeok tried to laugh but he choked on the blood in his mouth instead. He spit out blood and wheezed before he said. “You bastard. You were always going to kill me, weren’t you? You manipulated me into killing your family, saying that they were why you couldn’t be my mate, but you were just using me…What are you going to use that Omega for, huh?”

Moon Jo leaned in, staring at him intensely. “I think I’ll let him use me instead—in whatever way he wishes.” 

Ki Hyeok scoffed. “Why? Because you like his scent? You really believe in that ‘true mates’ nonsense just because Mrs. Eom sold that bullshit to you to keep you around?”

Anger flared in Moon Jo. “Mrs. Eom taught me faith. Perhaps if you had some in me, we wouldn’t be here now. You’ve always been too impulsive and only listened when you liked what I said.” 

Ki Hyeok huffed. “Whatever. You already foiled my plans for your precious Jagiya. Just kill me already.”

Moon Jo grabbed his favorite knife from the table and after a moment, he stabbed Ki Hyeok in the stomach repeatedly—until he was sure he would bleed out. “I wasn’t planning to kill you here, but my Jagiya needs me.” 

Ki Hyeok couldn’t respond, blood filling his mouth, his body jerking in the dental chair. 

Three years wasted on you.

”Still, before you go it’s only right to castrate you for your loathsome revenge fantasy. How could you think I would ever allow you the opportunity to touch him? Did you think I wasn’t watching you both very closely?”

Ki Hyeok’s eyes were starting to glaze over.

Moon Jo settled for stabbing the crotch of his pants, not having much time. Ki Hyeok flailed and blood spilled from his mouth, the crude stab bringing about a new wave of pain.

”What should I do with your body?” Moon Jo asked, the question more for himself. “You always preferred the sea over the mountains…that will be the last favor I ever do for you.”

Once the light died in Ki Hyeok’s eyes, Moon Jo took off the plastic wear he wore over his clothes, put his knife to soak in bleach, and left the room, locking it behind him before going to the bedroom to grab his briefcase. He made a stop in the bathroom to check for blood on his face and to spray himself with cologne then he left. He left to see his true mate. 

+++++

The second Jongwoo got into Moon Jo’s car he started telling him about Ki Hyeok and his past crimes, Moon Jo listening as he drank the americano Jongwoo bought him, turning off the car so he didn’t need to focus on anything else. He didn’t seem particularly flummoxed but then he was always calm so Jongwoo didn’t find that strange or the fact that he kept his gaze fixed out the windshield.

”I can’t believe someone so twisted liked you. He probably wanted to get back at me for stealing you away from him… The detective said that I’m lucky he probably got interrupted or spooked by something before he could pull off the robbery.”

“You are lucky indeed,” Moon Jo agreed. “He might’ve done something worse to you than his previous victims because of me…I apologize for putting you in danger, Jagiya.”

”It’s not your fault. He probably would’ve attacked me anyway.” 

“Still, I can’t help but feel like it’s my fault.” He looked upset and apologetic as he turned to face Jongwoo. 

Jongwoo softened a little inside. “It’s not.” He reached over and lightly squeezed Moon Jo’s arm. “I didn’t even mention that you two dated…but I did tell the detective that he got angry with me for putting sunscreen on you. She might contact you.” 

Moon Jo tilted his head. “You didn’t tell the detective about us?”

Jongwoo shook his head, feeling a little awkward as he said, “Well, I didn’t want to give them a reason to suspect you.” 

“Why not? You said I’m the biggest creep you’ve ever met.”

Jongwoo turned away, removing his hand from Moon Jo’s arm to grab his drink instead. “Apparently you’re not.”

Moon Jo chuckled softly as Jongwoo took a big sip of his coffee. “I wish you would let me kiss you right now.” 

Jongwoo choked, barely managing not to make a mess. He swallowed, coughing a bit, and set his coffee in the holder. “Ah, seriously, you always take things too far.” 

“I know.”

”I didn’t tell her because it’s not my business and I don’t want her to discover that we’re…that he had a reason to be jealous of us.” Jongwoo clarified.

“Of course.”

Jongwoo kept his gaze outside. “Take me home.” 

Moon Jo turned on the car and started the short drive home.

Jongwoo glanced at Moon Jo and saw him smiling. He felt the impulse to grab Moon Jo’s hand—to share affection just because. 

Jongwoo grabbed Moon Jo’s right hand and laced their fingers together, resting their hands on his thigh. His pulse jumped and his hand instantly became clammy. He tried to undo his mistake, but Moon Jo held on tightly.

“No one can see except us, Jagiya,” Moon Jo told him softly. “No one will know.” 

Jongwoo swallowed nervously, but relaxed his hand into Moon Jo’s. Moon Jo’s hand was cold but warmed in Jongwoo’s. Moon Jo’s fingers were calloused and long but Jongwoo liked the way they felt. 

+++++

Jieun FaceTimed Jongwoo later that day and he told her everything about Ki Hyeok and the possibility that he’d been drugged. 

“Oh my god, Oppa, are you okay?"

Jongwoo nodded. "The drug only kept me asleep. I'm a bit freaked out though, I mean he was in our apartment. He could've hurt me if he wanted." 

"We're lucky he didn't. I'm just glad you're safe, Oppa."

"Me too. Do you know when you'll be home?"

"Well, I was just asked to cover another shift, but I can't just leave you alone after something so scary. Give me an hour and I'll be home, okay?"

Jongwoo perked up. "Really?"

Jieun nodded with a smile. "Should I bring something to eat? Chicken and beer?"

"Sounds good. Should we watch a movie? Something funny?"

"How about we continue watching that drama from last time?"

Jongwoo tilted his head. "What drama?"

"The one about that man who fakes being a shaman."

"I don't remember watching anything like that?"

She frowned. "No...?" Realization suddenly dawned on her face. "Ah! I was watching it with Hana. Sorry, baby. Why don't you pick something?"

"Okay, I'll find something." Jongwoo smiled.

"See you soon baby."

"See you."

His smile dropped the second she hung up.  That was a little weird, wasn't it? Not that she got watching that drama with me mixed up but the way she suddenly called me baby instead of Oppa like...like she was trying to overcompensate with affection...

But I'm sure she just felt a little awkward since we don't get to spend much time together and she still managed to get a little detail like that wrong...yeah, that's probably it. She just felt guilty.  

“I’m guessing I’m not the only who caught the change from Oppa to Baby?”

Jongwoo looked at Moon Jo who was sitting on the other end of the couch. “Shut up.” 

Moon Jo smiled. “I’ll take that as my cue to leave?” 

Jongwoo nodded. 

Moon Jo stood up and Jongwoo followed him to the door.

Jongwoo fidgeted as he waited for Moon Jo to finish changing his shoes. He wasn’t quite ready to say goodbye to Moon Jo and it wasn’t just because he was still freaked out about Ki Hyeok and felt unsafe alone. He’d been enjoying watching a random variety show with him and talking with him about it. It was probably the most normal, mundane activity they’d done together.

Moon Jo reached for the front door as soon as he was finished and Jongwoo caught his sleeve. Moon Jo paused for a second, then looked at Jongwoo curiously. 

”Thank you for staying with me.” Jongwoo said softly. 

”Anytime, Jagiya.” 

Jongwoo let go of his sleeve. He wanted something but he didn’t know what. 

Moon Jo turned to face him suddenly and crowded into Jongwoo’s space. Jongwoo’s heart skipped. Moon Jo kissed his forehead, then his cheek, then hovered inches from Jongwoo’s lips and waited.

Jongwoo gave him a quick peck and turned his head, guilt turning his stomach about how much he wanted to do it properly. Here he was, waiting for Jieun to come home, and all he wanted to do was makeout with Moon Jo.

Moon Jo kissed his cheek. “Have a good evening, Jagiya.” 

Jongwoo didn’t say anything and listened to Moon Jo leave, letting out a breath when the door shut behind him. I’m really the worst, aren’t I? I’m giving in to him more and more. Taking more from him too.

But Jongwoo didn’t know if he could stop now that he’d started.

Jongwoo went to the living room and plopped down on the couch, pulling out his phone to look up movies to watch. He fell onto his side and he caught a whiff of Moon Jo’s scent. He sighed happily. The more time they spent together, the closer Jongwoo felt to cracking what his scent reminded him of.

Jieun came home after a while, took a quick shower, then they ate and settled in for the night. But Jongwoo found her touch strange, half wanting to shrug it off, but stranger still was that when he tried to kiss her cheek, she tensed up—only slightly but he still noticed. And when he tried to take her hand it didn’t seem to be long before she slipped free. 

Why do we both seem awkward? 

Jongwoo tried not dwell on it, especially later when they had sex and things seemed perfectly normal. Well, almost normal. For a brief moment before he came he thought of Moon Jo kissing him at the door and he felt ashamed. But not enough to stop himself from doing it again. 

***** 

“And did Mr. Yoon know of your relationship?”

”Yes, but don’t blame him for not telling you. He only wanted to protect us both.” Moon Jo pulled out a USB stick and handed it to Officer Seo. “See, Mr. Yoo tried to attack me just the other day, and Mr. Yoon stepped in to protect me, but before that, I had choked Mr. Yoo to get him off me when he tried to claim me against my will. I would’ve reported him sooner, but I was afraid the law wouldn’t be on our side as we both were unscathed from his attacks.”

Officer Seo nodded. “It is tricky to argue that he was the aggressor when you’re both fine.”

”Yes. Fortunately, there were cameras on the rooftop.” 

“Are there any other cameras in the building aside from the lobby, the rooftop, and the gym?” 

Moon Jo shook his head. “I had planned to install them on every floor but it was quite expensive and I needed to renovate my clinic.”

”I see…is it possible to look at the footage you do have?”

”Of course. Mr. Park in the lobby is head of security, so just call him at your convenience,” Moon Jo said, handing her a sticky note with Mr. Park’s contact information. 

Officer Seo nodded then said. “Well, thank you for coming in Mr. Seo.”

“Of course.” 

Moon Jo stood up. “Please let me know if there’s anything else you need. I feel partly responsible for what happened to Mr. Yoon. I’m the one who allowed a criminal like that into the building in the first place.”

”It’s not your fault, Mr. Seo. You were simply giving Mr. Yoo a shot at a normal life and he’s the one who threw it away.” 

Moon Jo smiled appreciatively. “Have a good evening, Officer.”

“You too, Mr. Seo.” 

Moon Jo left, feeling pleased with himself. He’d covered his tracks well and Mr. Park would handle the rest. Officer Seo wouldn’t find out about his affair with Jongwoo nor a trace of how Ki Hyeok had gotten into Jongwoo’s apartment in the first place. Everything could be spun how he wanted. Now he just needed to dispose of the body. 

Jongwoo stared at the calendar on the fridge and worried his bottom lip with his teeth. His heat was due to start the next day and he was still worried that something would come up with Jieun like the last time. He was particularly worried because Moon Jo had slipped past all his defenses in no time at all and he felt sure that Moon Jo would give him anything he asked for, especially if he begged. 

With Jaeho, he hadn’t actually wanted him, just his body, but with Moon Jo whom he kept giving affection, Moon Jo who could knot and claim him and rip away his future with Jieun, things were a bit more complicated. If Jieun isn’t here tomorrow…what will I do?

A knock on the front door drew his attention and he answered it.

His heart skipped. “Moon Jo.” He greeted. “Did you need something?”

“I made lunch for myself but I ended up making too much. I was wondering if you’d like to join me.”

Jongwoo hesitated. His heat could easily be triggered early by an Alpha’s pheromones and he didn’t want to do something he’d regret. 

“I promise to keep my distance, I know how sensitive you might be to touch right now.” 

“…Just let me grab my phone.”

”I’ll wait here.”

Jongwoo nodded once and went to his room to grab his phone and brush his hair. When he returned to Moon Jo he found him talking to— “Jaeho?”

Jaeho turned to look at him with a smile. “Jongwoo-ah. 

Jongwoo’s blood turned to ice, nausea prickling his skin, “W-what are you doing here?”

“I heard you moved in and I was in the neighborhood so thought I’d drop by.” Jaeho said with a smile.

“Oh…well, I was just about to eat breakfast with my neighbor.” He gestured to Moon Jo, hoping he could get away. 

“Actually he just invited me to join you,” Jaeho said. 

“Oh…? Then let’s go.” Jongwoo forced a smile and stepped out of the apartment, shutting the door. Why the hell did Moon Jo choose the worst time to be nice, huh?

Jongwoo was amazed by the inside of Moon Jo’s apartment, it looked similar to Jieun’s apartment, but the furniture and decor was completely different. The walls were dark grey and covered with paintings of various animals in dark brown frames that stood out pleasantly against the wall but matched the giant bookcase that separated the living room and dining room. Jongwoo didn’t catch the titles of many books before he passed by but they seemed to be true crime books.

”Are all these apartments so nice?” Jaeho asked.

”I presume so.” Moon Jo answered. He reached the dining room table first and gestured for them to sit. “Would you like some coffee, Mr. Shin?”

”Yes, if you don’t mind.”

Jongwoo noticed that there were already two cups of coffee and two sets of dishes on the table. He knew I’d say yes…am I that easy to read? 

Jaeho suddenly threw his arm around Jongwoo’s shoulder. “So, how have you been? Did you miss me?”

Jongwoo shrugged off his arm under the guise of grabbing his coffee. “I’m alright. I’ve just been busy writing for my next novel.” He took a sip and tried to ignore his unease.

Jaeho put a hand on his back. “I feel like I haven’t gotten to see you since that day.”

Moon Jo returned and set a mug of coffee and bowl of rice in front of Jaeho. “I hope the food is to your liking.”

Jaeho thankfully removed his hand from Jongwoo’s back. “I’m sure it’s delicious.”

Moon Jo sat at the head of the table next to Jongwoo. He picked up a fried egg with his chopsticks and placed it on top of Jongwoo’s rice. “Eat, Jongwoo.”

Jongwoo looked at him, surprised to hear his own name. He nodded and started eating, the room going quiet as the three of them enjoyed their breakfast—though of course it wasn’t long before Jaeho broke the peace.

“How did you two get so close?” Jaeho asked, gesturing between Jongwoo and Moon Jo.

“We just happened to meet in the building,” Jongwoo answered vaguely.

“Ah, I see. What is it that you do for work, Mr. Seo?”

”I’m a dentist, but my clinic is closed for renovations at the moment,” Moon Jo answered.

“A dentist? That’s impressive.”

Moon Jo offered a polite smile. “And what do you do for work, Mr. Shin?”

”I run a marketing firm.” Jaeho threw his arm around Jongwoo’s shoulder. “In fact, I handled the promotion of Jongwoo’s novel.” 

Jongwoo shifted uncomfortably. He felt Jaeho stroke the back of his neck—nausea and a flash of heat under his skin. His heat felt like a looming threat and he clutched his chopsticks tightly.

“We did so well that his publisher hired us to market other writers and even a few of their webtoons. But Jongwoo deserves the praise for writing such an intriguing novel. It made it easy to market.” 

Jaeho tousled Jongwoo’s hair and Jongwoo shifted uncomfortably, a thought occurring to him. Did he come here hoping I’d be in heat and would beg him to…No, right? That’s crazy.

Suddenly, the air filled with the domineering pheromones of an Alpha—frightening Jaeho and unfortunately turning on Jongwoo. Jaeho’s hand left Jongwoo’s hair immediately.

“Is something wrong, Mr. Seo?” 

”Don’t you think it’s inappropriate to touch what isn’t yours?” Moon Jo asked, tone cold.

Though his scent reeked of fear and unease, Jaeho said, “Isn’t it inappropriate to ask someone else’s Omega to lunch?” 

“Jieun knows we spend time together, but does she know where you are so close to an important date with Jongwoo? Or is it just a coincidence that you showed up the same week he goes into heat?”

Jaeho scoffed as if he was being ridiculous. “Please. I just came to visit a friend I hadn’t seen in a while. I didn’t even know it was time for that yet.” 

“Then why have you done nothing but touch him? You know Omegas can be triggered early with enough stimulation so if you aren’t trying to trigger his heat why can’t you keep your hands to yourself.”

”You're the one who pulled rank and released your pheromones. Can’t you smell what you’ve done to him? You’re the one about to trigger his heat.” 

Moon Jo stood up. “You should leave now.” 

“What?” Jaeho stared at him in disbelief then looked at Jongwoo. “Can you believe the nerve of—“

”You should leave,” Jongwoo said. 

Jaeho frowned. “Jongwoo?”

”Leave.” Jongwoo repeated. 

Hurt flashed across Jaeho’s face but he didn’t argue anymore and stood up. “You’re both being sensitive. I wasn’t trying to trigger anything.” He left when they didn’t respond, slamming the front door behind him. 

Moon Jo looked at him. “Are you okay?” 

Jongwoo looked down in shame. “It’s my fault he’s like that. If I hadn’t begged him like a needy whore to fuck me he wouldn’t have the balls to show up here and try to trigger my heat again.” 

Moon Jo grabbed Jongwoo’s chin between his thumb and forefinger, gently guiding his head up. “A real man would’ve resisted your begging, knowing it wasn’t what you really wanted.”

Jongwoo scoffed. “You say that, but if I begged you, would you be able to resist?”

Moon Jo looked hurt by the question. ”While it’s true that I want you, Jagiya, I don’t intend to take you against your will.”

”Is that right? What if I call you tomorrow and beg you to fuck me?”

“I could resist you. But in all honesty, Jagi, I would want to help you—I wouldn’t want you to suffer alone.”

Jongwoo studied him closely. He seemed to mean it. He sighed, thoroughly disarmed by Moon Jo’s sincerity. “But what if I do call and I say anything and everything to get you to give in? What then? Can you really resist if I tell you I’m in pain? That I’ll die without your cock inside me?”

Moon Jo faltered, just for a moment, then he cleared his throat.“…If you do call me, I’ll act as nothing more than a toy for you to use as you see fit. I won’t take control and I’ll let you satisfy whatever depraved desire you have. Whatever it takes to help you feel better.”

Jongwoo’s heart sped up and he felt heat creep into his skin.

“Tell me, would you like to subvert our roles and fuck me instead?”

Jongwoo felt slick slip from his hole. “You would let me be inside of you?”

Moon Jo smiled and crowded into his space. “I’d even let you claim me as an Alpha might. Anything to make you feel safe and in control.” 

Jongwoo’s face heated. He stared right into Moon Jo’s dark eyes, feeling as if he was being sucked into the abyss. “Claiming doesn’t work that way.”

”Still, you’ll know it happened. You’ll know that you were the first Omega to claim an Alpha as your submissive mate.”

Jongwoo made the mistake of looking at Moon Jo’s lips—and then they were pressing against his adam’s apple. He whined softly—a noise pulled from him unwillingly. He caught a whiff of Moon Jo’s arousal, his hole twitching in response. 

Moon Jo pulled away and stared into his eyes, “You go start your heat in comfort, Jagiya. If your so called Alpha lets you down again, and you need a living toy, call me.” 

Jongwoo felt dangerously close to breaking. He turned and hurried from the apartment, feeling slick wet his underwear. He entered his apartment quickly and ran to the bathroom. 

He’s too much at times…

Jongwoo took a warm bath instead of a cold shower, and fingered himself slow and teasing—his whole body lighting up. He thought only of Moon Jo—of using him the way he described. He came with an elongated moan of ‘Jagiya’ and quickly cleaned himself up, got dressed and went to bed.

Well, he got in bed to take a nap, but didn’t sleep, dwelling on Moon Jo’s offer. 

“I’d even let you claim me as an Alpha might. Anything to make you feel safe and in control.” 

I expressed my concerns to him and he found a way to turn them into something desirable…I didn’t want to have sex with him on my heat, but now it doesn’t seem like the end of the world if I do…He’s given me no reason not to trust him.

But I still want Jieun to show up tomorrow. I need her to or I’ll keep crossing the line until something stops me.

+++++

Jieun didn’t come home like she was supposed to and late into the night, Jongwoo received a text from her.

| Baby, call me in the morning.

Something’s come up 💔💔 | 

Jongwoo closed his eyes against the tears welling up in them. She promised me! She reassured me that this time would be different but it’s fucking not!

Chapter Text

Jongwoo woke up covered in slick, desire burning hot under his skin so he went to the bathroom to shower and masturbate but he couldn’t make himself come. His fingers weren’t thick or long enough to satisfy him in this state. He ached for a thick cock inside of him. He sighed unhappily, gave up, and made sure he was clean before crawling back into bed naked and FaceTiming Jieun. 

“Good morning baby,” she greeted cheerfully.

Jongwoo gave her a blank stare, wanting her to see how upset he was through the screen.

Her smile slipped. “I’m sorry, baby. A ride malfunctioned at an amusement park and it was an all hands on deck situation. It still is.” 

He really didn’t care. “When will you be home?” 

She looked away guiltily. “Not tonight. Possibly not tomorrow either.” 

“You promised me.” 

“I know, baby. I know, but what can I do? I can’t just leave.”

”So I’m just so supposed to suffer through my heat alone then?” He questioned, annoyed.

She looked into the camera, her apologetic expression only agitating him more. “I’m sorry but you’ll just have to take care of yourself until I can get away, Baby.”

“Take care of myself?” Jongwoo huffed then he said, “Do you know that Jaeho came here yesterday?”

Her eyes widened. “What?”

”He said that he came by to surprise me, but I think he was hoping to trigger my heat.”

She looked angry for a second then she asked, “Are you sure you’re not just being sensitive, Oppa?”

Jongwoo frowned, the question making his heart sink. “Jieun.”

“I—I’m just saying, couldn’t you just be reading into it because you two had sex the last time you saw each other?”

“He wouldn’t stop touching me and if Mr. Seo wasn’t there I think he would’ve—“

”Mr. Seo was there?” She frowned.

“He invited me over for breakfast,” Jongwoo explained. 

“Wait, so if Jaeho wasn’t there, you would’ve been alone with another Alpha in his apartment one day before your heat?”

Jongwoo was thrown off by the sudden pivot. ”Mr. Seo would never—“

”He’s an Alpha. He would.”

”Moon Jo isn’t like that.” Jongwoo insisted, feeling defensive.

“Moon Jo?” She questioned. “Have you two gotten that close?”

Jongwoo’s hurt and frustration bubbled out. ”Well, you’re never here, who else am I supposed to talk to, huh? Also, didn’t you say he was the most harmless Alpha you’ve ever met just the other day? Why are you suddenly being like this?”

Jieun paused, her mouth open like she wanted to say something, but then she closed it and shook her head instead. “You’re right. I’m…I’m sorry, Baby.” She sighed. “Look, I…I don’t want to fight. I just wanted to apologize for not being there like I promised. Everything else is just…guilt for not being there again. Do you think you can forgive me?” 

Jongwoo deflated. “Maybe. I just…Jieun this is the second time I’ve stopped taking suppressants because you said you’d for sure be around to take care of me during my heat. What am I supposed to do without you?”

”Well, I bought some toys for use to use together before you moved in, “She replied. “They’re in the bottom drawer of your bedside table. I already sanitized them so they’re ready for you to use as you see fit.”  

“Toys without the real thing won’t be enough,” he grumbled.

“I know. I’ll try to get home as soon as I—“

“Dr. Min, you’re needed in the emergency room!” A voice suddenly called out on Jieun’s end. 

“Just a second!” Jieun called back, then to Jongwoo said, “I have to go. Please take care of yourself the best you can, okay? Bye, Baby.”

”Okay b—“ Jieun hung up. “Love...you…” 

Jongwoo sighed and opened the browser on his phone to look up ride malfunctions in Seoul. There were pages of articles about it—apparently one ride had malfunctioned initially but then it damaged other rides around it and hurt a lot of people. He sighed heavily. How am I supposed to be mad at a doctor for saving lives? This is so unfair. I just seem like an insensitive asshole whining about how horny he is…

Jongwoo sighed, put his phone on his bedside table and positioned himself so he could open the bottom drawer. He observed the toys, feeling himself lose focus just at the sight of them—dildos, butt plugs, vibrators, lube, and a flesh light. He grabbed the biggest dildo—a thick pink one—and the bottle of lube. 

His hole wet with slick as he positioned himself to take it, desire flaring as he applied lube to the toy, enjoying the feel of it in his hand. He teased himself by tracing the rim of his hole with the head then slowly pressed it in, inch by inch until the fake, soft balls pressed against his ass. It wasn’t quite big enough but Jongwoo tried anyway. 

He fucked himself slow and deep but that didn’t work so he tried doing it hard and fast but he still couldn’t get off…and he knew exactly why. 

“You go start your heat in comfort, Jagiya. If your so called Alpha lets you down again, and you need a living toy, call me.” 

He whined, clenching around the toy at the memory. 

Fuck! That bastard just had to go and say that didn’t he? He set me up to fail!

After trying to make himself come for two hours, Jongwoo pulled the toy out and threw it to the ground in frustration. His skin felt hot and he felt uncomfortably wet and unsatisfied. He grabbed his phone and called Moon Jo, thinking he’d endured all he could. 

"You’re quite impatient, Jagiya. Don’t you have any toys?” 

Just the sound of Moon Jo’s voice made desire flash through him. “They’re not big enough.” 

“Maybe you should order some better ones.”

Jongwoo narrowed his eyes, annoyed this conversation was still going when Moon Jo knew what he wanted. “I need something now.”

“Perhaps you should get more creative with how you masturbate.”

Jongwoo bit his lip to keep his frustration to himself. An idea popped into his head. “Jagiya, I want control.” 

Moon Jo’s reply was slower this time.“…How can I believe you really want it at a time like this? I know what I said, but I don’t intend to put myself on the same level as that lowly Beta.” 

He wants me to admit I feel something. He doesn’t want to touch me if he thinks it’s not what I really want

Jongwoo closed his eyes, his jaw twitching. “That first time you kissed me, I purposely ignored every chance you gave me to stop you because I wanted to know what your lips felt like.” His face heated at the admission, knowing it was barely even a confession, but it felt dangerous to say it aloud. 

A beat of silence then Moon Jo hung up the phone. 

Jongwoo tossed his phone on the table and rubbed his eyes with the heels of his palms. He sat up with a groan, not knowing what the hell he was going to do. As annoyed as he was that Moon Jo hadn’t immediately said yes, he also felt his trust grow just a little stronger. 

A knock on the door made his heart race with excitement.

He ran towards the door and looked through the peephole, relieved to see Moon Jo in the hallway. He opened the door and grabbed Moon Jo’s arm, pulling him into the apartment and using the momentum to throw Moon Jo onto the floor. He kicked the door shut and reached back to lock it before walking forward and dropping to his knees over Moon Jo.

“I didn’t think you’d come.” Jongwoo said, staring down into Moon Jo’s curious eyes. 

“You gave me what I wanted so it’s only right I extend the same courtesy to you.” 

Jongwoo yanked Moon Jo’s sweatpants down and grabbed hold of his cock, wasting no time in lining it up with his hole and sinking down on it. Jongwoo whimpered, his eyes rolling into the back of his head because of how girthy Moon Jo was, how good it felt to be stretched and filled as Moon Jo hardened inside of him. 

“J—Jagiyaaaah,” the word left Moon Jo’s mouth as a stuttered groan. “Aren’t you being too forward?” 

Jongwoo huffed. “I already wasted hours on foreplay.”

Moon Jo chuckled, breathless, a wild light in his eyes. “I like this side of you. The one that that takes what he wants.”

Jongwoo kissed him to keep his mouth busy and once Moon Jo kissed him back, he started rocking his hips. His eyes fluttered closed and he moaned obscenely, steadily building his pace and adjusting his hips until he found an angle he liked. He pulled Moon Jo’s shirt up to reveal his abs and pecs, unable to resist touching them, feeling Moon Jo’s body twitch in his hand, feeling his nipples harden. 

Jongwoo squeezed Moon Jo’s pecs and felt him jerk and squirm under him. He continued to ride Moon Jo and blatantly feel him up, ogling his body without shame. Moon Jo gasped and groaned and cursed softly but not once did he tell Jongwoo to stop. 

“Take off your shirt.”

Moon Jo obliged quickly and Jongwoo rewarded him by kissing at the scars on his chest before kissing him on the mouth. Then he kissed Moon Jo’s neck, enjoying the way Moon Jo bared it to him to give him better access wherever his mouth went. Jongwoo kissed his Adam’s apple then lightly sucked on it, earning a whine that made him clench around Moon Jo’s cock. Jongwoo licked it gently a few times before he went back to kissing Moon Jo’s neck.

Jongwoo was used to Jieun taking control by now, but aside from digging his fingers into Jongwoo’s hips, Moon Jo stayed still and let Jongwoo do as he wanted. Curious if Moon Jo would really listen to him, he said, “Touch me.”

Moon Jo’s eyes fluttered open. ”Where should I touch you, Jagi?”

Jongwoo looked down pointedly. Moon Jo wrapped his hand around Jongwoo’s cock and stroked him firmly, twisting his hand at the end of every stroke, and eliciting soft moans from Jongwoo’s throat. His hand was big and rough, the friction bordering on painful but without instruction, Moon Jo spit into hand and spread it down from his head and down his shaft, easing his strokes just a little. 

“Again.” Jongwoo said. 

Moon Jo obeyed, and the friction became just right, Jongwoo biting his lip. He felt good—the heat in his skin still burning. He needed just a little more to finally get off. 

As if reading his mind, Moon Jo asked, “Do you have another request?”

“…My chest. Use your mouth.”

Moon Jo sat up—the shift making Jongwoo gasp as he slipped further down on his cock. He sucked Jongwoo’s left pec into his mouth and licked his nipple until it hardened. 

Jongwoo sighed happily, petting the top of Moon Jo’s head then burying his hand in the hair at the back of his neck. Moon Jo swirled his tongue and sucked harshly. “Just like that,” Jongwoo said approvingly.

Moon Jo hummed.

So obedient, Jongwoo thought as he started moving again—Moon Jo adapting and chasing after Jongwoo’s chest each time his body went up. Jongwoo closed his eyes. This was good—this would soothe the ache in his core.

”Grab my ass.”

Two big hands grabbed his ass and squeezed, making Jongwoo jerk with pleasure and pull Moon Jo’s hair. 

“Ngh…Good boy.” Jongwoo said, too lost in pleasure to say something less cringy. 

But Moon Jo whined and thrust into him, his scent giving away his increased arousal. 

“Ah…you like that sort of thing?”

Moon Jo hummed. 

“You’ll have to earn any more praise. You can start by paying attention to the other side.”

Moon Jo kissed across his chest and did just that. Jongwoo moved his hips in ways that made him see stars—feeling his orgasm build quickly due to his heat and it wasn’t long before he clenched around Moon Jo’s cock and came—cum painting both their chests, slick wetting their thighs. Jongwoo slumped forward with a groan and clutched Moon Jo in a tight embrace, forcing his mouth to slip from his chest. 

Moon Jo held him tightly and rubbed his lower back as he came down.

After he caught his breath, Jongwoo lifted his head and whispered into Moon Jo’s ear, “Give me your knot, Jagiya.” 

Moon Jo came hard with a groan like he’d just been gut punched—cum leaking down his cock to the rim of Jongwoo’s asshole. His knot quickly swelled and stuck them together and Jongwoo started riding him again, relishing in the feel of his knot.

Jongwoo smelled it then—an Alpha in rut, the scent heady and tantalizing. He came again and again, clenching tight and warm around Moon Jo’s perfect dick until desire melted into exhaustion and he pushed Moon Jo onto his back so he could lay on his chest. He could hear his rapid heartbeat. Jongwoo swirled his hips once and Moon Jo came again, clutching Jongwoo’s back.

After a few minutes of catching their breath, Moon Jo broke the relative silence. 

“If we keep going like this, you might have my pup, Jagiya. Are you sure I should’ve knotted you?”

”…I need it.”

”But—“

Jongwoo grabbed Moon Jo’s face. “I’ll risk having your pup, just please don’t stop giving it to me. You’re perfect.” 

Moon Jo’s scent flooded the small room, his eyes seemingly darker than normal.  ”You know, if you were my Omega I would let you lock me in a room and have your way with me everyday of your heat. I’d let you tie me down and make it so I couldn’t escape unless you ordered me to do something. I’d bury my tongue or my cock in you and not take them out until you gave me permission.”

Jongwoo gasped as a wave of slick took him by surprise. 

“Ah, so you like my idea.”

”Why would you let me have so much control?”

”Because letting you use me is what I’m made for. I’ll only take control when you want to give it.” He looked and sounded so sincere. 

Jongwoo studied him for a moment then said. “Take it now. Just for a little while.”

Moon Jo sat up, holding Jongwoo easily. He whispered, ”As you wish, Jagi,” into Jongwoo’s ear then gently laid him on his back. 

Jongwoo gasped as Moon Jo rocked into him slow and steady, unable to pull out due to his knot, but it didn’t matter—he still made Jongwoo’s toes curl in pleasure, still made him curse softy. Jongwoo wrapped his legs around Moon Jo’s waist and clutched his back tightly. Breed me, breed me, breed me…Jongwoo begged in his mind, helpless to his heat.

Moon Jo suddenly pressed his forehead against Jongwoo’s, his eyes slipping closed. “Jagi, if you say that how can I resist this feeling to make you mine?”

”…I didn’t realize I had,” Jongwoo admitted, biting his lip as Moon Jo swirled his hips.

Moon Jo sighed softly and kissed him gently for a moment before nibbling Jongwoo’s bottom lip. His teeth had sharpened into fine canines—ready to leave the mating mark. 

Jongwoo clenched around his cock and came hard, milking another orgasm out of Moon Jo who narrowly avoided sinking his teeth into Jongwoo’s lip. They laid panting together, Moon Jo careful not to put all of his weight on Jongwoo. When Jongwoo’s strength returned to him he urged Moon Jo to lay on his back and laid on top of him, burying his face in his neck and inhaling softly—analyzing his scent. 

He smells like…rain but not just that, there’s something else…what is it? I’ve smelled it before but it’s dull—like it’s been washed by the rain but not completely hidden by it...

Jongwoo couldn't place it. He licked Moon Jo’s neck and felt him tilt his head back, giving him better access. He smiled and licked a stripe across Moon Jo’s throat, stopping at his Adam's apple. He kissed him there lightly before licking him there too—gently teasing him with his tongue.

Moon Jo groaned softly. "Jagiya..."

Jongwoo hummed and started rocking his hips. I want every lost drop of him. I need him to beg me for the privilege to stop coming inside of me—I want to make him pass out.

Jongwoo clenched tightly around Moon Jo's cock and swirled his hips. He sucked lightly on Moon Jo’s Adam's apple and felt Moon Jo's self restraint slip—his big hands clutching Jongwoo’s back, his nails digging into his skin—just for a second before his hands dropped back to his sides.

Jongwoo kissed along Moon Jo’s throat and up to his ear. "Good boy," he whispered, feeling Moon Jo shudder. "But I want to feel your hands on my body now. Just don't leave any marks."

In an instant, he felt Moon Jo’s hands stroking his sides, his skin tingling. He sucked Moon Jo's earlobe into his mouth and lightly nibbled on it, riding Moon Jo harder and faster. Moon Jo hands became more adventurous, cupping Jongwoo’s ass in both hands and squeezing his cheeks harshly, pulling and massaging at his skin. 

Jongwoo released Moon Jo’s ear and kissed him on the mouth. He was greedy and forceful and when he'd barely sucked Moon Jo’s tongue into his mouth, he felt him seize and come inside him with a soft whine—squeezing and spreading his cheeks without even meaning to. He’s so easy. So fucking easy.

Jongwoo didn’t stop riding Moon Jo or sucking on his tongue—unrelenting in his efforts to make Moon Jo come. And he did. Over and over—Jongwoo too. Slick and cum leaking obscenely from Jongwoo. Unlike earlier though, he was truly insatiable, his heat fully taking over his brain and remembering only Moon Jo’s promise to be his toy.

Moon Jo squirmed underneath him and occasionally thrust into him. Jongwoo decided to reward him by stilling his movements. 

“Pull me down on you as you thrust,” Jongwoo told him.

Moon Jo slid his hands up to Jongwoo’s hips and pulled him down as he started thrusting deeper into him. Jongwoo hummed in pleasure and closed his eyes, allowing himself to enjoy it. Even though the thrusts were weak because they were locked together and couldn’t move much, the feel of Moon Jo pressing deeper inside drove him crazy—made him feel full. He opened his eyes to watch Moon Jo’s face, loving the way it twitched and went slack with pleasure—the way his soft, plush lips stayed permanently half open. 

I keep forgetting how handsome he is. He’s gorgeous like this. My compliant little Alpha…

Jieun flashed in his mind but he shook his head to get rid of her visage.

She broke her promise to me. Again. And Moon Jo is helping me. That’s all that matters right now.

”Stop,” Jongwoo said.

Moon Jo stilled almost instantly. “Jagi?”

”I’ll do it now, just kiss me.” Jongwoo kissed him. Moon Jo kissed back, his hands stroking Jongwoo’s back gently. Jongwoo pulled away after a moment and rode him properly, throwing his head back as he found the right angle. And then he was back in the cycle of coming and making Moon Jo come, of touching and getting felt up—the fever in his skin lessening little by little. 

Eventually, Jongwoo started to regain his senses, knowing he should stop but still wanting to hear Moon Jo beg for him to stop. As if reading his mind, he eventually heard it, 

”Jagiya, please let me rest,” Moon Jo pleaded, breathless. “I have nothing left and my knot will go down soon.” 

Jongwoo hummed and nuzzled against Moon Jo’s neck, stilling his hips. Not only had he gotten what he wanted, but his heat was winding down anyway. He was exhausted and sweaty and sticky but his senses had returned to him, capable of clarity once again. I need to scrub this floor into oblivion.

Jongwoo inhaled deeply, Moon Jo’s scent intoxicating and comforting—absolutely perfect. Jongwoo needed him gone immediately.

After Moon Jo’s knot went down, Jongwoo kicked him out of the apartment and went to bathe himself, feeling much better. If he was lucky, he would have a couple hours before he would have to succumb to his own desires again. Before that, he would need to clean up the entryway and obscure Moon Jo’s scent. 

The doorbell rang just as he left the bathroom and Jongwoo answered it warily, but no one was there, instead, there was takeout waiting for him and a black gift box with a singular red ribbon and a note attached. He grabbed them both and went back inside, double locking the door before going to the living room. 

He put the food on the coffee table, plopped down on the couch, and plucked the note off the box. 

| Perhaps this one will be more fitting, Jagiya. |

Jongwoo set the note aside and opened the box, the tissue paper crackling as he moved it out of the way. His brow shot up as he unveiled a massive dildo with a knot attached, a small remote and a small bottle of lube to with it.

Why would he give me this when we’ve already…

Jongwoo realized then that this was another chance for him to rebuff Moon Jo—another choice for him to make. Use a more than adequate toy to satiate his needs or willingly use Moon Jo again. He was asserting Jongwoo’s right to choose once again. 

“You really…make me want to trust you.” Jongwoo said quietly. He ran his fingers over the dildo—it felt like real skin, probably lamb skin, and Jongwoo knew it would feel good inside him, much better than any of the toys Jieun had bought. He rubbed his thumb over the slit. This could get me through my heat. 

Jongwoo retracted his hand and set the gift aside to see what Moon Jo had gotten him to eat. It was rice, beef, chicken, pork belly, rolled omelette, and various vegetables. His stomach growled from the smell. Well, I do need to keep my strength up if I’m going to get through this. 

Jongwoo sent a text to Moon Jo, finding his gesture too sweet and reassuring to not say anything.

| I’m sorry for kicking you out like that. 

Are you angry with me? |

| I don’t buy dinner or dildos for people

that I’m angry with. |

Jongwoo laughed at the ridiculous sentence. | I’m going to eat now. |

| Enjoy your meal, Jagiya. If you need anything 

else, you know how to reach me. |

+++++

Jongwoo woke up in the middle of the night and he didn’t even so much as look at the toy Moon Jo gifted him, instead he walked straight out of his apartment and up to Moon Jo’s front door. He banged on the door until it opened and barged into Moon Jo’s apartment. “Help me,” he said, grabbing Moon Jo’s arm and dragging him to his bedroom, finding it based on the layout of his own apartment.

Moon Jo’s room was the same dark grey as the rest of his apartment and just as tidy—the bed spacious and comfortable looking. Jongwoo wasn’t concerned about the other details of Moon Jo’s interior design. He took off his boxers and turned to look at Moon Jo who was staring at him. He looked sleepy and dazed. Caught unawares.

Jongwoo crowded into his space and pulled his head down to kiss him firmly on the mouth. Though he felt rather impatient and needed to be touched, he could at least offer something to stir arousal. He felt Moon Jo melt under him and after a moment, he slipped his hand into Moon Jo’s pajamas pants and palmed his flaccid dick through his underwear, feeling it harden quickly.

Jongwoo made him a little harder before he stopped kissing him and pulled down his pants and underwear, sinking to his knees in front of Moon Jo. He stared up at him as he grabbed his dick and saw his pupils dilate. Jongwoo sucked the tip into his mouth, licking it with thick, broad strokes of his tongue. Moon Jo’s breath hitched and he stroked Jongwoo’s cheek with his knuckles.

”Jagi, isn’t this supposed to be about you?” 

Jongwoo pulled off to reply. “This is about me.” He sucked the tip back into his mouth and continued licking and sucking and pulling on Moon Jo’s cock until he was leaking on his tongue. He pulled off with a wet pop and wiped his mouth before he stood up. His face was as hot as the rest of him. Moon Jo looked dazed for an entirely different reason now, eyes dark and glazed over.

“Take off your shirt.”

Moon Jo raked his gaze up and down Jongwoo’s body and locked eyes with him before he took off his shirt.  

Jongwoo turned around and got on the bed. He laid on his stomach and lifted his hips, presenting his ass to Moon Jo. “Your mouth.” 

Moon Jo obliged quickly, getting on the bed and walking on his knees to get behind Jongwoo. He spread Jongwoo’s cheeks and licked up the slick wetting them before tracing the rim of Jongwoo’s hole with his tongue. Jongwoo gasped softly and pressed back against Moon Jo’s tongue. Moon Jo licked his way inside and Jongwoo’s body reacted instantly—all the heat in his skin flaring at once. 

Moon Jo’s hand came to cup and squeeze his balls and Jongwoo clutched the blankets tightly with one hand and wrapped the other around his cock. He jerked himself off and rocked back on Moon Jo’s tongue with the same steady rhythm, faltering only when Moon Jo became a little rough with his balls then regaining form when he massaged them. He heard a slurping sound as Moon Jo sucked slick out of him, his tongue lapping it up eagerly.

Jongwoo gasped softly then groaned approvingly as Moon Jo kept doing it. Jongwoo lost himself in sheer pleasure and it wasn’t long before he came—his desperate body not needing much to go over the edge. Moon Jo kept his tongue buried inside of him, licking his walls in broad strokes, then pulling back to lick the rim and lap up the slick that had leaked out. 

Jongwoo squirmed, his body becoming oversensitive. But he felt a little better, less impatient. Moon Jo spread and squeezed his cheeks, pushing his face closer, forcing his tongue in deeper. Jongwoo jerked back and groaned as Moon Jo continued to eat him out.

”Fuck. Do I taste that good?” Jongwoo asked, pushing back into his face. 

“Mhm,” Moon Jo hummed, rubbing his ass before slurping more slick into his mouth and swallowing it. He let out a hot breath against Jongwoo’s hole, making him shudder and sigh happily. 

Jongwoo started jerking himself off again, closing his eyes and savoring the thick, eager tongue in his ass. He thought he’d have something else in him by now but admittedly, he found this so hot that he didn’t mind this extra step in the least. Moon Jo enjoyed the taste of him and it made him strangely happy—as if he was proud of himself for it. 

Jongwoo came again after a few minutes and let Moon Jo lap up his slick again before he grabbed his hair and pulled him off. Moon Jo’s face was covered in slick and he grinned at Jongwoo with a wild look in his eyes before licking his lips. 

Oh my god, he had that same look when I spit blood in his face. 

Jongwoo felt his hole throb. Fuck. I need him so bad it’s embarrassing. 

Jongwoo rolled onto his back and Moon Jo immediately took the opportunity to lick cum off his chest and dick. “You’re kind of gross,” Jongwoo commented, breathless.

Moon Jo looked up at him as he licked cum off his shaft and Jongwoo gripped the sheets. “You don’t seem to mind.”

Jongwoo hummed and enjoyed the feel of Moon Jo licking him all over. Once Moon Jo was done, he straddled Jongwoo’s waist and grabbed his hand, kissing his knuckles gently before he guided it under him and clumsily nudged his own hole with Jongwoo’s fingers. “Would you like to put it inside me?”

Jongwoo bit his lip, curiously tracing Moon Jo’s hole with his fingertip. He nodded.

”Do you want to prep me while I finger you?”

Jongwoo’s toes curled at the suggestion. “Yeah.”

Moon Jo guided them into position, both lying on their sides with their heads on opposite ends. Jongwoo could see everything—Moon Jo’s dick, his taint, his hole, his cheeks. All up close and his face. His heart beat a little harder in his chest. 

Moon Jo handed him a bottle of lube. “Should I demonstrate on you how I like it?”

Jongwoo swallowed, a bit of slick pooling at his rim. He nodded. “Just give me a sec.” Jongwoo poured lube into his hand and made sure his fingers were slicked up before he pressed his fingertip against Moon Jo’s hole, tracing it curiously. He’s really going to let me…

Moon Jo pressed his finger against Jongwoo’s hole. “Ready?”

Jongwoo nodded.

”Push in slowly like this…” Moon Jo instructed, slowly pushing one finger inside of him. 

Jongwoo copied him, Moon Jo grunting softly as Jongwoo pressed in one finger. Moon Jo quickly pressed a second finger against Jongwoo’s hole. “Are you sure you can take two?” Jongwoo asked. 

“I’m sure, Jagi. I like to play with myself there too and I grow impatient very quickly with only one. 

“Okay.” Jongwoo pressed a second finger against Moon Jo’s hole, only pushing in as Moon Jo pressed inside him. He bit his lip to keep himself from moaning. It became increasingly hard to focus as they fingered each other, Jongwoo becoming soaking wet around Moon Jo’s fingers—it was hard not to because Moon Jo let out soft little groans and pressed down on Jongwoo’s fingers eagerly.

Moon Jo suddenly licked inside of him, Jongwoo whined, pushing down onto his tongue, and Moon Jo kept licking him leisurely, massaging his prostate with his fingers. Jongwoo nearly lost focus but he forced himself to pay attention to his own actions, to watch Moon Jo’s greedy hole suck in his fingers. He moved his fingers around with purpose, determined to find that spot inside Moon Jo that would make him see stars. 

Moon Jo arched into him suddenly, a soft gasp escaping him. 

Jongwoo rubbed at that spot relentlessly, fascinated by how useless Moon Jo became, his jaw slack, eyes closed, his body arching and twitching. He seemed to forget about everything else. He’s acting like an Omega…

Jongwoo was obsessed. He rubbed and played with Moon Jo’s prostate, watching precum bead on his cock, watching Moon Jo squirm. Jongwoo kept going, his ass and cock both leaking just from the sight and smell of Moon Jo’s pleasure. He’s beautiful like this…

A moment later, Jongwoo found himself struck with the desire to say things similar to what an Alpha might say to an Omega in a moment like this.

”You’ve got such a greedy little hole for an Alpha.” He said.

Moon Jo whined and Jongwoo’s nipples hardened at the sound. 

“Tell me, does your greedy little hole want something bigger?”

”Yes,” Moon Jo replied breathless. “Please, Jagiya, I need you inside of me. Please.”

The begging made Jongwoo feel dizzy and weak, his legs crossing together as slick wet his hole intensely. Fuck, he sounds so pathetic! 

Jongwoo repositioned himself, still massaging Moon Jo as he came face to face with him. He kissed him, not minding the taste of his own slick, just wanting to reassure Moon Jo that he was doing well as he finally pulled his fingers out. “Lay on your stomach.” 

Moon Jo stole another kiss then turned under him, his compliance driving Jongwoo crazy.

Jongwoo lubed himself up throughly then teased the head of his cock against Moon Jo’s hole, only pushing inside when he couldn’t take it anymore. The first press made him gasp—Moon Jo was warm velvet around the head of his cock, the pressure a tight hug that he quickly sunk into. 

Jongwoo bottomed out and nearly came from how good it felt. He bit his lip and draped himself over Moon Jo, pressing his chest against the scars on Moon Jo’s back, kissing at one on his shoulder as he allowed himself to catch his breath. 

“Do I feel good, Jagiya?”

Jongwoo hummed and traced his scar with his tongue. 

“You feel bigger there than you do in my mouth,” Moon Jo told him. “Perhaps because I can do this.” Moon Jo clenched around Jongwoo’s cock and he groaned, precum slipping out.

”Stop, you’ll make me cum.”

Moon Jo relaxed around him. “I like the way you feel inside of me.”

Jongwoo smiled and kissed Moon Jo’s scar once again. He started rocking his hips back and forth, slowly finding a rhythm that they both seemed to enjoy and then he pulled almost all the way out before slamming back in, finding a rhythm with that too. But the position they were in became a bit uncomfortable so he had Moon Jo get on his hands and knees.

Jongwoo grabbed Moon Jo’s hips and started fucking him hard and deep, adjusting his angle according to the noises Moon Jo let out. He felt slick trail down the back of his thighs, his scent becoming more potent and domineering over Moon Jo’s pheromones but it only served to increase the smell of arousal for the both of them. Moon Jo’s whole body jerked when Jongwoo found that sweet little spot inside of him again.

Jongwoo thrust faster and harder, determined to make Moon Jo see stars. Moon Jo pressed back to meet his thrusts until Jongwoo stilled his hips and fucked him harder—his balls slapping against Moon Jo’s skin loudly. 

Moon Jo moaned loudly then said, breathless, “Jagi, if you had a knot I’d be begging for it already. I’d beg you to mark me as yours and fuck me until I passed out from the pleasure.”

His words triggered the change in Jongwoo’s teeth—they sharpened and extended. He could bite Moon Jo and the mark would fade after a week if it wasn’t reciprocated as mating marks were a point of synchronization for a couple biologically—though while Alpha marks always stayed no matter what so they could claim as many Omegas as they wanted, Omega marks only stayed if the Alpha had claimed them first. 

Jongwoo pressed his mouth against the back of Moon Jo’s neck and kept railing into him, the sound of flesh pounding into flesh making his mouth water. He really wanted to sink his teeth into Moon Jo.

“Claim me.” Moon Jo said. “Please. I need to be yours, Jongwoo.”

The use of his own name made Jongwoo forget all the reasons he shouldn’t. He wrapped one hand around Moon Jo’s cock then he opened his mouth and sunk his teeth into the back of Moon Jo’s neck—brazenly claiming him and coming inside of him as he did. Blood filled his mouth and Moon Jo cried out in pain.

My Alpha. Mine.  

Moon Jo slumped over the second Jongwoo released the back of his neck and he was blessed with the image of Moon Jo’s ass up in the air just for him as the strength in Moon Jo’s arms gave out, his slim waist delicate and pretty in the soft light from the only light in the room. Jongwoo forced his cock in deeper and held it there as he wrapped his other hand around Moon Jo’s cock and started jerking him off with both hands. 

“Be a good little Alpha and come for me.” Jongwoo demanded greedily, stilling his hands but keeping them wrapped around Moon Jo. 

Moon Jo moaned loudly, rocking his hips back and forth, taking pleasure from both the front and the back. He moved faster as his desperation to get off grew and Jongwoo bit his lip as he watched—transfixed as he watched his cock sink into Moon Jo repeatedly, as he felt his thick cock fuck his hands and drag against his skin. 

After a couple minutes, Moon Jo came hard and hot in Jongwoo’s hands, his whole body seizing as a loud moan left him. Jongwoo kissed the back of Moon Jo’s neck, stroking him gently, slicking him with his own cum until Moon Jo whined and tried to shift away from his hands. Jongwoo didn’t want to be inconsiderate like some Alpha’s were by touching him past the point of pleasure, so he let go and pulled out.

The back of Jongwoo’s thighs and his ass were so wet with slick that he felt cold and uncomfortable, but he felt so deeply satisfied that he couldn’t bring himself to care. Moon Jo turned onto his back and stared up at him, eyes half-glazed over as he tried to catch his breath. Jongwoo smiled down at him, feeling half-crazed, and Moon Jo reflected his smile back at him. 

After a moment, Moon Jo said, “Let me clean you up.”

“Hm?”

”Sit on my face and let me clean you with my tongue.” 

“That’s too much.” 

“Not for me. I can’t get enough of you.” 

Jongwoo hesitated but he liked the idea of having Moon Jo’s mouth on him once again so he walked on his knees up the bed and hovered over Moon Jo’s mouth.

Moon Jo grabbed his hips and forced Jongwoo down onto his mouth, his tongue licking in and around Jongwoo’s hole earnestly—slowly lapping out in broader strokes until his tongue ran up the back of Jongwoo’s thigh and across his ass cheek and down his other thigh before burying it in Jongwoo’s hole again.

Jongwoo’s whole body jerked and he closed his eyes, letting Moon Jo lick and suck and swallow his slick as it leaked from his body. He rocked his hips every time Moon Jo flattened his tongue but it wasn’t until Moon Jo grabbed two handfuls of Jongwoo’s ass and forced him down even further that he started to see stars. It didn’t take long for him to cum yet again, Moon Jo licking both his hole and chest clean before gently guiding Jongwoo onto the bed next to him. 

Jongwoo laid there panting, covering his eyes with his hands as he tried to collect himself.

“Am I better than those toys in your bottom drawer?” 

”Mm.” Jongwoo confirmed, still dizzy, and sinking in to his exhaustion. Then, just as he started to drift off, it hit him and he opened his eyes and turned to Moon Jo. “H—how did you know about those?”

”Hm?”

“I didn’t even know about those toys until yesterday.”

Moon Jo titled his head curiously. ”…Well, you’re an Omega so I just assumed you had some. And isn’t that where most people keep their toys? It’s where I keep mine.” 

Jongwoo nodded slowly. He still found it a little strange but it was an easy enough guess to make. “You have toys?” 

“Just a few. Want to see them?”

Jongwoo nodded. He watched as Moon Jo drug himself to the edge of the bed and opened the bottom drawer of his bedside table. He pulled out a large flesh colored dildo that he handed to Jongwoo. 

“I know it might seem strange but I’ve never been one to be motivated by the scents of Omegas and I’ve never had much of a sexual drive. But I’ve always liked to experiment to unlock that side of me. So I tried using these and discovered I enjoyed anal stimulation.” 

“It’s big…”

”Yours is perfect. It’s not about the size anyway, it’s about how you use it, and the way you use yours makes me dizzy.” 

Jongwoo bit back a smile. “Show me what else you got.”

Moon Jo leaned over and pulled out a large cock ring and bottle of lube, then he reached in one more time and pulled out an adjustable leather collar. Jongwoo grabbed the lube first, learning that it was the kind that warmed and tingled as you used it.

“You like a bit of masochism?” 

“I do.”

Jongwoo grabbed the collar next, running his fingers over the leather, enjoying the feel of it against his fingertips. He pictured himself holding onto it as he fucked Moon Jo from behind, then pictured himself pulling it tight against Moon Jo’s pale throat as he rode him into oblivion. He became wet at both ends just thinking about it—the curse of being in heat.

“Would you like to put it on me, Jagiya?”

Jongwoo nodded and Moon Jo sat up. Jongwoo slipped the collar around Moon Jo’s neck, positioning it so he could pull it taut from the front, then he positioned himself over Moon Jo. He sunk down on his cock slowly and groaned as bottomed out. He gave himself a moment to adjust before he started moving, watch Moon Jo watch him. 

Jongwoo pulled on the collar, watching Moon Jo’s skin become red and irritated. He rode him faster, heard Moon Jo let out a breath as if he’d been gut punched. He kept the collar nice and tight and only relented when Moon Jo’s breaths were too fast and too shallow for his liking. He watched in fascination as Moon Jo’s skin went from pale white to pink to red once more. 

Jongwoo kissed him gently on the mouth and then once on his cheek before pulling the collar tight again and grinding his hips down into Moon Jo repeatedly. Moon Jo gasped and strained, but didn’t make any attempt to take the collar off or get Jongwoo to relent his hold, instead he grinned and laughed delightedly. Jongwoo smirked and kissed his face all over. 

Moon Jo came first, mouth slack with a silent scream. Jongwoo relaxed his hold on the collar and used it to bring Moon Jo into a kiss while he waited for Moon Jo’s knot to fill him, his mouth going slack with a moan when finally felt it—when he was finally filled and successfully bred. 

Jongwoo collapsed on Moon Jo’s chest and slowly drifted off to sleep with the collar in his hand.

+++++

When Jongwoo woke, he found himself in his own bed, freshly cleaned and changed into his pajamas. When he looked at the time he saw it was around 6AM, and discovered a sticky note on his phone. 

| I left you something to eat on the counter.

If it’s gone bad when you wake up, call me

and I’ll remake it for you. |

Jongwoo smiled. He got out of bed and rushed to the kitchen, finding a few healthy side dishes alongside a huge steak. He put the steak in the oven to warm it and went to the bathroom to freshen up. He heated up the rice and the side dishes then had a feast. He sighed happily every few bites and couldn’t stop himself from eating or drinking lavishly.

Jongwoo texted Moon Jo after he finished his meal.

| Thank you for taking care of me. |

| There’s no need to thank me. It’s what an

Alpha should do for their Omega. |

Jongwoo smiled despite himself.

| Can I have your door code? |

| 04261956. My mother’s birthday, if you’re curious. |

| I’ll be over later, Jagiya. |

+++++

After eating, Jongwoo went back to bed but only managed a few hours before he felt feverish with desire. He pulled himself out of bed and hurried over to Moon Jo’s apartment in his underwear and house shoes, entering the code and heading straight to Moon Jo’s apartment. 

Moon Jo was fast asleep in his bed, but Jongwoo needed him awake. He turned on the lamp on Moon Jo’s beside table and sat on the edge of the bed, watching him for a moment. Moon Jo seemed so soft and even cute like this. Jongwoo swept his hair out of his face and stroked the top of Moon Jo’s head.

I must’ve exhausted him earlier. He smirked at the thought. 

After a minute, Moon Jo’s eyes fluttered opened. “Jagi…do you need something?”

”I need you again.” 

Moon Jo groaned softly and wiped the sleep out of his eyes. “Okay…let me use the restroom first.”

Jongwoo kissed his cheek. “Hurry back.”

Jongwoo kicked off his house shoes and crawled over Moon Jo.  Moon Jo got out of bed and left Jongwoo to get started without him. Jongwoo took off his boxers and contemplated how he wanted it—what would satisfy him the most. The moment Moon Jo returned, Jongwoo got on all fours, presenting himself to Moon Jo without shame. Moon Jo’s clothes were noticeably missing. 

”Jagi, I want you on your back.”

Jongwoo blinked, surprised. “You don’t want me like this?”

”I always want you, Jagiya, but I prefer watching your face.” 

Jongwoo felt his face heat, pleased but a little embarrassed by the admission. “…Do you have a mirror?” 

Moon Jo titled his head. “Only in the bathroom.” 

Jongwoo got off his bed and grabbed Moon Jo’s hand, leading him to the bathroom. He turned on the light and walked over to stand in front of the bathroom counter, dragging Moon Jo with him. He bent over the counter suggestively and met Moon Jo’s gaze in the mirror, his ass brushing against Moon Jo’s cock. He felt shy as he said, “I want it from behind, Jagiya.” 

Moon Jo’s cock twitched against his ass and Moon Jo looked away, his pale face turning red as he hardened instantly against Jongwoo. 

Jongwoo smirked. He’s blushing? Actually blushing because of me? Jongwoo pressed back into him. “Jagiya, please.”

Moon Jo cleared his throat and grabbed Jongwoo’s hips. He didn’t meet his gaze in the mirror but he did line himself up with his hole and slowly push in. He allowed Jongwoo a moment to adjust before he started moving, face still red—still embarrassed even as he pounded eagerly into Jongwoo. 

“Jagiya, look at me.”

Moon Jo finally looked at him through the mirror and Jongwoo winked before shutting his eyes and moaning obscenely. He heard Moon Jo’s breath catch, felt his fingernails dig just a bit deeper into his flesh, and felt it as he pulled Jongwoo back on his cock with just a little more force. He opened his eyes—keeping them half lidded and fixated on Moon Jo through the mirror. He wasn’t sure what other expressions he made but he felt Moon Jo adjust according to whatever he saw in Jongwoo’s face until he railed into Jongwoo’s prostate. 

Jongwoo let out a silent scream, his whole body jerking, and he barely regained his senses before Moon Jo struck him there again and again, one strong arm wrapping around Jongwoo’s waist. After a few minutes, Moon Jo pulled Jongwoo’s torso up and nuzzled against his cheek. 

“Do you see it, Jagi? How beautiful you look when you take my cock? How your face twitches and goes slack with pleasure?”

Jongwoo hummed and held onto Moon Jo’s arms, watching them in the mirror—his gaze torn between the act and the man towering above him. Moon Jo’s eyes were darker than he’d ever seen them, his mouth open slightly, a slight smile curling his lips. 

”Do you see how perfect you look in my arms? Like they were made for you.” He hugged Jongwoo tighter to emphasize his words.

My Alpha. Mine. Jongwoo thought once more, closing his eyes and leaning back heavily against Moon Jo. 

Moon Jo sucked Jongwoo’s earlobe into his mouth, gently grazing the skin with his teeth. They were starting to sharpen and Moon Jo was starting to salivate—the room flooding with Moon Jo’s dominant pheromones. Jongwoo opened his eyes and locked eyes with Moon Jo through the mirror for a long moment.

Moon Jo looked away first, his gaze slipping to stare at Jongwoo’s cock as it bounced against his stomach. Jongwoo watched himself get fucked in the mirror and felt his orgasm build the longer he watched both himself and Moon Jo. 

Jongwoo felt his legs shake, his body clenching around Moon Jo and secreting slick in response to his sudden change in scent. “Take me to bed.”

Moon Jo pulled out and lifted Jongwoo, carrying him bridal style to his bedroom. He laid Jongwoo on the bed and waited for his command.

Jongwoo made himself comfortable on his back and spread his legs. “Knot me, Jagiya.”

Moon Jo quickly settled in between his legs and pressed inside him. He thrust only a few times before he suddenly ducked his head away and when Jongwoo looked he was biting into the pillow Jongwoo was laying on. He felt Moon Jo cum inside him, his knot quick to swell and lock them together. Jongwoo came from the sensation of being filled, his heels digging into Moon Jo’s back. 

They both laid panting and tangled together but Moon Jo couldn’t seem to release the pillow in his mouth.

He had to resist claiming me…

Jongwoo stroked the back of Moon Jo’s neck. “You did well, Jagiya.”

Moon Jo hummed but still didn’t move. He smelled like Rut and—

Jongwoo kissed his cheek and nuzzled against him. “You know I think I know how to describe your scent now…It’s like the smell of rain hitting dry soil—Petrichor, they call it, but that’s not all, it’s like…petrichor and honeysuckle drenched by the rain… I only know how honeysuckle smells because I used to bathe in strong soaps to mask my scent before I could legally go on suppressants and this honeysuckle one I had worked the best.”

“I don’t know why I didn’t realize it sooner…maybe I was just trying to reject it so I didn’t realize how nice it actually is. I think I could die happy from this smell.”

Moon Jo whined and nuzzled against his cheek, jaw still locked in an unrelenting bite. 

Jongwoo started rocking his hips, tracing the bite mark he’d left on the back of Moon Jo’s neck. “I like you.”

Moon Jo whined again, clearly unhappy he couldn’t respond.

“Don’t worry, I know you do too. You’re biting a pillow instead of taking advantage of this situation and claiming me for good.” That meant the world to Jongwoo and he didn’t know how to properly express it. He nuzzled against Moon Jo and moved his hips faster and faster until he clenched around Moon Jo and drew out another orgasm for both of them. 

Moon Jo whined and bit down harder on the pillow. Jongwoo was totally spent and slowly drifted to sleep, breathing in Moon Jo’s scent and feeling completely safe. 

+++++

Jongwoo whined and arched his back as Moon Jo fucked him with the toy he’d bought while he sucked on the head of Jongwoo’s cock. Jongwoo couldn’t think straight anymore, his heat fully enveloping his mind and body—slick and cum leaking from both ends as his body became oversensitive to touch. Moon Jo’s fingers pinched and teased Jongwoo’s nipple and he squirmed—overwhelmed—but this was exactly what he’d told Moon Jo to do. 

Jongwoo came unexpectedly with a loud cry, feeling dizzy,

Moon Jo slowly stopped pumping the toy in and out of him and Jongwoo grabbed his wrist.

”Take it out and get behind me,” he ordered, turning onto his side.

Moon Jo pulled the toy out slowly, Jongwoo’s hole clenching around it desperately, not wanting to be empty for a moment, but Jongwoo knew what he wanted and it wasn’t some toy that couldn’t breed him. Moon Jo set the toy aside and laid behind Jongwoo. 

“Put it in.” 

Moon Jo’s breath stuttered, but he did as instructed, pushing into Jongwoo with ease. Jongwoo bit his lip and closed his eyes, enjoying every inch of Moon Jo’s thick cock as it went in—his body tingling everywhere. He felt Moon Jo’s hand grab his hip before he started fucking him—intuitive enough to know that Jongwoo didn’t want him to wait for permission for something so obvious. 

Jongwoo groaned loudly and reached back to grab onto Moon Jo’s upper arm just to steady himself. He was riding the wave of overstimulation and needed something to ground him, if only a little. Moon Jo put his hand over Jongwoo’s, squeezing it lightly.

”I’m right here, Jagi. I’ll take care of you, just tell me what you want.”

Jongwoo felt reassured by those words. “Just keep fucking me.”

”As you wish, Jagi.” 

Moon Jo stilled suddenly and wrapped his arms around Jongwoo’s waist before sitting up. Jongwoo whined as he slid down Moon Jo’s cock and took in even more of him, loving the new angle so much that he almost came just from the sudden change. He felt Moon Jo’s chin on his shoulder and he turned his head to press it against Moon Jo’s, nuzzling into him affectionately. Moon Jo nuzzled back and kissed him. The angle was awkward but they couldn’t seem to stop.

Moon Jo thrusted up into him, bouncing on the mattress as he did, and Jongwoo pulled away from the kiss and rested his head against Moon Jo’s chest as he straightened out and he hugged Jongwoo tightly from behind—his arms pushing Jongwoo’s pecs together obscenely. Moon Jo went faster until he was pounding into Jongwoo like a man possessed—like he wanted to breed Jongwoo.

Jongwoo loved every moment of it, curses, moans and praise spilling from him nonsensically. But what really drove him crazy was when Moon Jo manhandled him onto his stomach and railed into him, putting his hands over Jongwoo’s and lacing their fingers together from behind. 

His weight on me, his cock in me, his hands covering mine, all while my cock glides across his sheets and fucks his mattress to the rhythm of how he fucks me…Fuck. I need him desperate as he knots me. I need him as pathetic and compliant as I am right now.

“Jagiya,” Jongwoo moaned. “Jagiya.”

Moon Jo kissed the side of his face and licked his earlobe before putting it in his mouth and suckling on it.

”Jagi.” Jongwoo felt Moon Jo’s teeth change and his mouth water. “Jagi, please. Make me come.”

Moon Jo released his ear and pulled out, quickly turning Jongwoo onto his back before pushing back inside. He wrapped one hand around Jongwoo’s cock and jerked him off as he started moving again. 

Jongwoo hummed with pleasure but he still needed more. He spread his legs and lifted his right one in the air. “Jagi, rest my legs on your shoulders and pull me up a bit.”

Moon Jo grabbed his legs and did as instructed, Jongwoo losing the ability to think because of the new angle. Moon Jo lifted Jongwoo a little more then he started pounding into him—the scent of his pheromones flooding the room, his delicious scent tinged with rut. Jongwoo gripped the sheets underneath him and let Moon Jo use him, let him fuck relentlessly even after Jongwoo came.

“Breed me, Jagi,” Jongwoo begged, overstimulated. “Right now.”

Moon Jo whimpered like the words were too much and then he came after a few hard thrusts, moaning softly. He collapsed on top of Jongwoo and Jongwoo held his head and stroked his head, whispering soft praises—telling him he did well, used his cock well. Moon Jo came again in this position and Jongwoo found it hot how easy it was to make him cum. 

Jongwoo nuzzled against Moon Jo’s head, feeling his heat stirring under his skin again. 

“Jagi?”

”Yeah?” 

“What does being knotted feel like to you?”

Jongwoo blinked in surprise at the question. “You really want to know?”

Moon Jo hummed in agreement.

”Take that toy you got me and put it in you.” 

Moon Jo pulled back and stole a few kisses before he grabbed the dildo that was still on the bed. Then he grabbed the wet wipes on the and a towel from the drawer—Jongwoo having to roll and move with him to do so—his eyes rolling into the back of his head at certain angles. Moon Jo quickly cleaned and sanitized the toy before he slicked it with lube and slowly pushed it inside himself. 

Jongwoo was annoyed that he couldn’t see the toy go in, but the expression of pain and pleasure that prettied Moon Jo’s face made up for it. He continued to watch Moon Jo’s face, feeling himself become wet with slick the longer he did. He’s stunning. Maybe I should write a character based off of him…

After Moon Jo’s eyes opened and he looked at Jongwoo for further instruction, Jongwoo said, “There should be a small button on the bottom of the toy. Find it.”

Moon Jo nodded and after a moment he said, “Found it.”

“Push it.”

Moon Jo pushed the small button on the bottom of the toy and Jongwoo heard him gasp, seeing him arch forward—the movement pushing him deeper into Jongwoo and making him squirm. Moon Jo leaned over and pressed his forehead against Jongwoo’s. “Jagi…does it really feel like this? How can you stand this without passing out immediately?”

”It just takes getting used to. But do you see why I keep falling asleep after?”

”I do.” Moon Jo kissed his cheek. “I think I’m about to come again…” His breath stuttered as he shifted his hips but he managed to whisper, “I wish this was your knot inside me, Jagiya.”

Jongwoo’s hole clenched around Moon Jo and wrung out another orgasm, triggering Jongwoo’s orgasm, the both of them groaning and squirming together. A few minutes ticked by with them just grabbing and feeling each other up as they came down. 

“I’ll keep it in until my knot goes down,” Moon Jo said. “I want to understand what this is like for you as much as I can.” 

Jongwoo hummed and started rocking back into Moon Jo. He could already feel slick building inside him, his body demanding release once more. 

Moon Jo’s knot stayed firmly in place for hours, the both of them coming so many times that they lost count. Jongwoo’s heat lost its feverish hold on him, but he stayed in Moon Jo’s arms and started to drift asleep cuddled up next to him. This was how his heat was supposed to go with Jieun last time, and how it was supposed to go this time too—getting fucked by his Alpha until he either blacked out or the heat in his skin vanished.

My alpha…he is mine in a way that’s entirely different from Jieun. Out in the world, I’m Miss Min’s Omega, but here with Moon Jo it’s like…he’s my possession—Mr. Yoon’s Alpha…

Jongwoo smiled sleepily. Mr. Yoon’s Alpha and Dr. Seo’s Omega…and no one could guess that I claimed him first—that he lets me fuck him like he’s my good little Omega or is so obedient in bed that our gender identity might as well be swapped. He’s perfect. My perfect Alpha.

*****

Moon Jo watched Jongwoo sleep and couldn’t help his grin. To him, it seemed even fate agreed that him and Jongwoo were indeed true mates—what were the odds of a freak accident happening at just the right time to draw that woman away at such a crucial time?

Moon Jo had debated whether or not to manipulate the situation in his favor but had decided not to once he learned that the Beta had violated Jongwoo. Jongwoo needed his protection—someone to keep away the unwanted. Miss Min, as  unappealing as she was to Moon Jo, was wanted by Jongwoo.

So, when he learned of the accident at the amusement park, it felt like his faith was being rewarded, giving him a chance to show his devotion to his true mate.

Moon Jo suddenly smelled a flood of pheromones come from Jongwoo. He sighed happily, Jongwoo’s scent intoxicating. He pulled Jongwoo closer and buried his face in his neck. I want to make you mine. I want to be yours for real.

Moon Jo caught a whiff of Jongwoo’s slick and a moment later he heard Jongwoo groan softly and shift in his arms. 

“Jagi,” Jongwoo called softly. His hand stroked Moon Jo’s head. 

“Yes?”

”It’s happening again.”

Moon Jo hummed. “Can I stay like this and finger you a while?”

“Yeah.”

Moon Jo slid his right hand down Jongwoo’s back and over his soft, round asscheeks, then further down until his fingers pressed against his hole. He pressed his fingers in slowly, spreading them and stretching Jongwoo around them, hearing a soft sigh in response. He smiled softly and felt around inside until he felt Jongwoo jerk down on his fingers. He massaged that special spot inside of Jongwoo lazily while inhaling Jongwoo’s scent, his mouth slowly started to water in response to the pheromones Jongwoo released.

Jongwoo squirmed and pushed down on his fingers, so wet that even Moon Jo’s palm was slippery with slick. “Please, Jagi. I can’t take this teasing anymore.”

Moon Jo slipped in a third finger with ease and massaged him faster and rougher. Jongwoo’s sensitive body couldn’t handle it and he came hard after just a minute, clenching around Moon Jo’s fingers and pressing down on them. Moon Jo didn’t stop massaging his prostrate, pulling away so he could watch Jongwoo’s face—grinning at the way it twitched and how he looked almost angry at how good he felt. 

After a few minutes, Jongwoo opened his eyes and hit his shoulder with his palm. “I need more.”

Moon Jo took the hint and pulled his fingers out, waiting to see what Jongwoo wanted next. 

Jongwoo pushed Moon Jo flat on his back and threw his leg over him, hovering over him. Moon Jo felt a thrill shoot through him—he didn't know he could be so attracted to another person, didn't know he was capable of wanting sex outside of his own curiosities. But now he here was, starting to develop a favorite position. 

Ki Hyeok had pestered him for years to have sex but he hadn't given in. For Jongwoo, it was easy to give him his body—not even a hint of unease or doubt filling him, only desire.

Jongwoo grabbed his dick and lined it up with his hole, sinking down on it slowly. Moon Jo moaned softly, watching Jongwoo attentively as he continued to swallow him inside his body. Once Jongwoo was fully seated, he grabbed Moon Jo’s hands, interlocking their fingers as he leaned down to kiss him.

Moon Jo squeezed his hands and kissed him back. He could kiss Jongwoo forever. Could have sex until his heart gave out. Jongwoo made him greedy and lustful—heavy with sin in the most delightful of ways.

Jongwoo started riding him slowly so they could keep kissing, and he grew incredibly wet around Moon Jo’s cock. Slick leaked and fell on Moon Jo’s thighs and even his balls. It wasn't long before Jongwoo pulled away and closed his eyes, moving faster and faster until he bounced relentlessly.

Moon Jo squeezed Jongwoo’s hands tight again as he stuttered out a moan.  Desire warmed his skin and pleasure made his toes curl. 

Jongwoo suddenly stopped and dug his knees into Moon Jo’s sides before rolling them over. Moon Jo took the unspoken cue and started railing into Jongwoo, grabbing onto him when he slipped upwards on the mattress and pulling him back down. Jongwoo whined softly and sunk his nails into Moon Jo’s back, pulling him close. This power Jongwoo granted him felt like an honor—a show of trust, of faith.

Moon Jo kissed the side of Jongwoo’s face and then his neck, keeping his mouth there in a lingering kiss as he moved his hips faster and harder—his teeth sharpened once more but he kept his mouth shut. He wouldn’t claim Jongwoo without permission. Never. 

A few minutes went by, Moon Jo adjusting his pace and angle until Jongwoo was a moaning, screaming mess under him—until his nails dug in and drew blood. The sounds of their bodies clapping together filling the room obscenely and triggering Moon Jo’s rut, stealing every thought that wasn’t making love to Jongwoo. 

As his desire reached its peak and he felt himself about to orgasm, Jongwoo’s lips brushed his ear and he moaned Moon Jo’s name in his ear. Moon Jo came seconds later, his hips stuttering. Jongwoo clenched around his cock and kept him still until his knot popped. Jongwoo came then, accidentally biting Moon Jo’s ear and hugging him tightly. 

Moon Jo whined softly and Jongwoo licked his ear apologetically before whispering in it “You’re perfect, Jagi. The perfect toy.”

Moon Jo shuddered and kissed him passionately. 

Jongwoo hummed and kissed him back. After a moment, Jongwoo pushed Moon Jo onto his side and cuddled up to him. “I’m sleepy.”

Moon Jo nuzzled against Jongwoo’s head. “Sleep, Jagi. I’ll keep you safe.”

Jongwoo yawned. A moment later he asked, "Did you mean it when you said that you were mine to hurt and I was yours to protect?"

"I did."

Jongwoo hummed. "You know, those things are usually mutual. You can hurt me and I can protect you too."

"Do you want to protect me too?"

"...I dunno, but...I think I'll end up hurting you whether I mean to or not.”

Moon Jo opened his eyes and stared at Jongwoo’s hair. "Hurt me, Jagi. Break my heart and restore it at your will."

Jongwoo sighed. "You make it sound romantic...it won't feel like that though. It'll just hurt."

Moon Jo closed his eyes and pulled him in closer. "Maybe. But I'm sure we're meant to be together no matter what comes."

Jongwoo didn't respond but he felt a soft kiss to his chest then he felt Jongwoo nuzzle into him. 

Moon Jo listened for Jongwoo’s breathing, eventually hearing it even out. He still isnt sure about me but he knows he likes me. I'll consider that a small victory. 

Jongwoo later awoke the feel of someone joining him in bed and he jerked upright.

”Oh. Sorry, Oppa.” Jieun apologized.

Jongwoo blinked, surprised at being in his own apartment. How does he manage to move and clean me without waking me up? 

“Something wrong?” Jieun asked. 

Jongwoo shook his head, but he felt heat in his skin—the craving to be filled. 

“Do you need to get off again? Or eat? Something to drink?” 

Jongwoo nodded, feeling slick slip free. “I need to get off.” 

Jongwoo let her put it in and for the first time, it didn’t feel like enough. He wanted Moon Jo inside of him. But she knew his body well enough that he still found insane pleasure in letting her use him.

Jongwoo couldn’t sleep and stared at the wall after Jieun went to bed her knot still tying them together. It was then that he was hit with full clarity of the situation he was now in. He’d cheated on her with Moon Jo but he wasn’t disgusted with himself in the same way as last time with Jaeho. This time, he wished he was in Moon Jo arm’s, smelling petrichor and honeysuckle. 

This time, he didn’t feel sorry like he should despite feeling guilty—despite knowing that what he’d done was wrong. It could’ve been because he was still angry with Jieun and that things still weren’t great between them—especially because she hadn’t called since that one FaceTime. Only texting him once that things were still hectic before radio silence. 

Or it could’ve been because he was falling for Moon Jo hard in her absence—because he wanted to give Jongwoo everything while Jieun no longer gave him anything except a loneliness that crept inside him more everyday. 

Should I tell her about Moon Jo? She might forgive me because I was in heat or she might break up with me because she’ll think she was right that I was warning her what I would if she didn’t keep her promise…but maybe we should break up?

Maybe I should seriously rethink who my Alpha should be. Maybe I should let Moon Jo win. 

*****

Moon Jo watched with a pit in his stomach as Jongwoo let that woman have her way with him. Jealousy flared hot in his chest and felt the urge to do something impulsive—to end that woman before she could touch Jongwoo ever again. But he kept himself in control.

I’ve seen them like this before so why am I so angry this time?

Moon Jo felt a slight pain when he looked down at the floor and his hand went to the back of his neck. Is it because of his claim that I’m like this?

Moon Jo left quietly, not wanting to do something foolish. Not yet. He was still digging for the key to Miss Min’s downfall and he couldn’t afford to act until then. Nothing will keep me from my true mate.

Chapter Text

Jongwoo wasn’t proud of himself for what he did next. After his heat ended, he called up his mom and offered to take her and Jinwoo to Jeju for the weekend so they could visit his aunt and her family. Luckily, he’d gotten a decent check from both pure sales of his book and the book signing event so he could afford to splurge on the last minute trip. 

Jieun hadn’t seemed torn up about him leaving, in fact she gave him even more money to spend so they could stay as long as they wanted and even driven them all to the airport. It made Jongwoo feel worse for cheating on her both on and off his heat. For wanting to break up but not having the courage to just do it. But he desperately needed space. 

After meeting up with his aunt and her family, Jongwoo and his mom went to check in to their hotel while Jinwoo stayed to help make dinner. 

“Jongwoo-ah,” his mother said while they were still in the car. “Are you okay?” 

“Hm?”  Jongwoo looked at her in surprise. “I’m fine.” 

“You seem stressed.” 

“Ah…I’m just having a hard time with my new novel. I’m a bit stuck.” 

“I’m sure you’ll figure it out,” his mother said. “You’re a smart boy.”

Jongwoo flashed a smile. The car went quiet and he thought he had successfully deflected his mother’s concern, but a minute later, she spoke again.

”By chance, are things going well with Jieun?”

Jongwoo tensed, gripping the steering wheel just a little tighter. “Yeah.”

”Jongwoo.” 

Jongwoo sighed. He was usually good at keeping things to himself, but it seemed he was too stressed to hide it this time. “I’ve barely seen her since I moved in and she missed the first couple days of my heat after promising me she’d be there so…I’ve just been a little upset.”

She nodded then huffed, “That girl! She refuses to claim you and then she makes you go through something so hard by yourself.”

”It wasn’t her fault, there was an emergency at work.” Jongwoo said in her defense.

“Still, is she the only doctor?” His mother grumbled. 

Jongwoo looked at her curiously. She’d never had a bad thing to say about Jieun before. “I thought you liked Jieun, mom?”

”I did. When I thought she’d take responsibility for you and provide for you like an Alpha should, but she hasn’t claimed you or proposed and she can’t even be around to help you through your heat. What kind of Alpha misses something like that? Especially after asking you to go off your suppressants. Does she know how much danger that puts you in?” 

Jongwoo stared in awe. He hadn’t realized his mom felt frustrated about Jieun too. Emotion swelled in his chest. 

“She should consider your heat as important as her Rut—if she really valued being your Alpha, she would get your bodies in sync so you could help each other.”

“She’s always been too busy.”

She shook her head. “It’s not like your heat is a surprise that you can’t plan around.”

Jongwoo couldn’t help but jump to Jieun’s defense. “I know but it really wasn’t her fault this time. Did you hear about those ride malfunctions at that amusement park in Seoul?” 

“I think Jinwoo told me something about that…So that’s why she wasn’t there?”

”Yeah.” 

She sighed. “Still, it feels unfair to you. There are other hospitals and other doctors. They could’ve spared her.” 

Jongwoo glanced at her and noticed how annoyed she looked. It made him smile just a little. It felt nice to know she was on his side. 

“But if she was gone, how did you get through your heat, sweetie?”

His smile slipped from his face. “That’s a little personal mom.”

She shot him a strange look. “I’m your mother. I bought you your first toys and showed you how to sanitize them. Nothing’s too personal.” 

He didn’t know how to argue with that despite really wanting to. “Um…I had a really effective toy,” He answered awkwardly, shame washing over him as that ‘toy’ flashed in his mind. Every inch of it. 

“And that was enough?” His mom questioned, clearly skeptical. 

“Well, um…no,” he admitted. “Well, I mean, yes but…I made a mistake.”

“A mistake?” She prompted gently.

Jongwoo hesitated. Telling his mom the truth could just make everything worse but at the same time, he needed to tell someone else—to gain perspective, something he seemed to lose around Moon Jo.

”I…I asked my neighbor for help,” he admitted, heart skipping a beat.

She blinked at the information. “I see…is this neighbor someone you trust?”

Her reaction seemed too tame for the giant bomb he’d just dropped, but it made answering her question less daunting

”He is…I’ve been spending a lot of time with him since I moved in. I didn’t mean for it to come to that, but I was just so mad that Jieun broke her promise and he’s made it clear that he likes me so when my toys didn’t work I called him over and y’know…” His heart was in his throat, racing and making him feel dizzy.

”Maybe we should pull over,” his mom suggested.

Jongwoo did, blinking away the tears that had sprung to his eyes. Once they were on the side of road his mom grabbed his hands and squeezed them tightly.

”I won’t tell you what you did is right cos we both know it’s not,” she said. “But sweetheart, things like that can happen when you’re left all alone. Especially when you’re in heat. I don't think less of you for leaning on someone who’s been around for you, okay? I know it must’ve taken a lot to get to that point.”

His mother understanding him made his tears slip out against his will. “It has.”

She reached up and cupped his cheek. “Will you finally tell me what made you move back home last time?”

Jongwoo wiped at his eyes and sniffed. “I don’t want to talk about that but…that’s probably when all of this started for me. I’ve loved Jieun for four years and I’ve always wanted a future with her so I forced myself to move on from what happened so things could return to normal. But they haven’t. She’s got a nicer place but if it wasn’t for—for my neighbor, my whole life would just be an endless cycle of alone, alone, alone.” 

“I like to be alone, but not like this. Even when I try to tell her things, she just thinks I’m being sensitive—it’s like I don’t have any support even when she’s right next to me, mom.”

”Jongwoo, I don’t want to overstep, but if you’re this unhappy, why don’t you tell her? Give Jieun a chance to fix it if you’re not ready to break up, but if she can’t, then I think you should break up with her for good.” 

Give her a chance, huh? That’s what my heat was supposed to be…but maybe this time I should actually tell her that I need things to change. 

“I’ll…think about it.”

His mom gave him a curious look. “By chance, have you fallen for your neighbor?”

Jongwoo’s heart skipped. “No.” 

She didn't appear to believe him. “Okay…well, I think you should be careful of how you treat your neighbor from now on. Whether you like them enough to break up with Jieun, or be with them if things don’t improve, or you don’t, that’s your business, but please be careful, dear. Communicate with your neighbor and Jieun properly.” 

“I will, mom.” 

“And honey…”

”Yeah?” 

“I’m just curious…Why have you stayed with Jieun for so long?”

He blinked, taken aback by the question. “Because I love her.” 

“And what else?”

”What?”

”Do you like her personality? Do you like something specific about her?”

Jongwoo took a second to gather his thoughts, completely caught off guard by the question. “She’s funny and nice and generous. Hardworking…I love the way she laughs but…I don’t get to hear it much anymore. I don’t get the chance to make her laugh or smile or anything else.” 

”And what do you like about your neighbor?” 

“I don’t like—“

”Jongwoo.”

Jongwoo sighed. His mother seemed especially keen today. “He’s…obnoxious and weird but he’s very kind to me. I like the way he looks at me and the way he seems to understand me. He’s unexpectedly sweet too. He’s been through a lot and it makes me pity him but he’s…steady, I guess. He’s someone I can rely on.”

His mother nodded to herself for a second then said, “You have a lot to consider.”

Jongwoo hummed. He didn’t know what his answers meant to his mother. “I do. I mean, I’ve been planning my life with Jieun for four years now, how can I just throw that away for someone I barely know at all?” He sighed heavily. “That’s crazy, right? What if I shatter my entire future and I spend the rest of my life regretting it?” 

His mom took a deep breath before she replied. ”…You know, when I lost your father, my whole world shattered into a billion little pieces and I didn’t think I would ever be able to pick up a single piece ever again. I mean, how could I? He was everything to me…”

“But after I picked up that first piece again, it got easier to keep picking them up. Sometimes though, I would drop a piece I had already picked up but when I reached for it again I found you holding it. My Jongwoo. My son. My Angel.”

”You never complained even when you cut yourself on a piece, you just acted like it didn’t hurt and maybe I’m a terrible mother for pretending I believed you, but I’ve always been grateful for your strength. So, if you shatter your world, I will lend you mine to rebuild it no matter how sharp the edges are.”

”Mom…” 

She smiled softly. “I know I might ask too much of you sometimes, but never forget that I love you and just want you to be happy—whatever that looks like.”

Jongwoo didn’t want to cry so he smiled and put his hands over hers. “Thanks, mom. I love you too.” 

+++++

After checking in to the hotel and finding their rooms, which were across the hall from each other, Jongwoo and his mother parted ways. His mother went to take a nap before they went back to his Aunt’s for dinner, and he went to put his stuff away and then went to look around just for the sake of it. The hotel was nice, like something out of a movie, and decently crowded. 

Jongwoo went to check out the pool, finding it packed with kids, while their parents filled the lounge chairs or the bar and grill nearby. Jongwoo looked around, debating whether or not he wanted to have a beer. He could really use one after the talk with his mother.

Even though she was very understanding and he felt lighter after talking, he still felt the burden of a ginormous choice on his shoulders. 

But as he was debating, his attention was caught by someone who looked strikingly similar to Moon Jo. Jongwoo tensed, thinking it was Moon Jo in the crowd, but someone very tall walked in front of him and then that person was gone. Am I going crazy or did he really follow me here?

Jongwoo’s phone buzzed with a call and he was quick to answer it, still searching for Moon Jo. “Hello?”

”Hello, this is Officer Seo Junghwa. I don’t know if you remember me, but I recently came to ask about your neighbor, Mr. Yoo.”

Jongwoo had completely forgotten. “Ah, right. I remember. Did something happen? Did you find him?”

”Well, the results of your drug test led to us getting a search warrant and through our search we found a detailed journal of your daily routine and were able to confirm that Mr. Yoo did initially plan to rob your girlfriend, Miss Min, of all her jewelry and thought it would be easy since she was rarely home.”

”We think you moving in put a small wrench in his plans because a few of the pages we read were directly cursing you and talking badly about Omegas.”

“Wow...seriously? That crazy fucker." 

“Yes, Mr. Yoo didn’t seem to be in a stable state of mind before he went missing. However, we found no evidence of a struggle or any clues as to where he might’ve gone or if something spooked him. We don’t currently have any leads but we did find something quite disturbing on Mr. Yoo’s computer regarding you.”

”Me?” 

“Mr. Yoon, I don’t quite know how to tell you this, so I’m just gonna say it—Mr. Yoo had installed hidden cameras in your apartment.” 

Nausea prickled his skin. “What?” 

“There appears to be a live feed of your apartment going straight to his computer.”

”Ah, that fucking creep! What the hell did he need to spy on us for? Some jewelry and luxury clothes?” 

Jongwoo noticed a few heads turn to look at him and he bowed apologetically before walking away to find a more secluded spot. 

“If it helps, he only saved a few clips from the live feed that were of interest to him and deleted the rest of the footage. But in any case, I can send a team to disable and dispose of the cameras at your discretion.”

”That would be great, thank you. I’m in Jeju visiting family right now, but when I get back to Seoul I’ll confirm a day with you.” 

“Sounds good. Before I let you go, Mr. Yoon, I just have a few questions.”

“Okay, go ahead.” Jongwoo stopped near a giant potted plant near the entrance of the pool area, lowering his voice.

“Had you noticed anyone watching or following you in the days leading up to Mr. Yoo’s disappearance?” 

Jongwoo tensed. The only person that fit that description was…”No, I didn’t notice anyone.”

"Are you sure?"

"I'm sure."

"You had a book signing event recently. Was there anyone particularly strange or who seemed more interested in you than your book?"

"Ah...there were a few people like that but I don't remember them very clearly..."

"Was your neighbor, Mr. Seo like that?" Officer Seo questioned. 

"What?"

"I looked through some footage from the bookstore and a few places in the area and I saw you meet with Mr. Seo at a coffee shop and even leave with him."

Why was she looking into where I’d been? Or was she looking into Moon Jo because he’s the ex?

"Right...”Jongwoo chose his words carefully, an urge to protect Moon Jo flaring inside of him. “Mr. Seo surprised me by showing up to the event and then we went to the café to talk about my book. We lost track of time and he drove me to the shop across from our apartment building so I could meet my girlfriend for dinner. He wasn’t like the others who hit on me and said weird things, he was actually interested in my book.” 

“I see…”

”Is Mr. Seo a suspect?” Jongwoo questioned. 

”We’re just covering all our bases since we don’t have any leads to Mr. Yoo’s whereabouts. Without any evidence we’re split between Mr. Yoo getting spooked by something and running or that he was killed the night he drugged you or—” 

Her abrupt cutoff made him frown. 

“Or?” He prompted.

“Or that he found something he thought he could use to blackmail Miss Min or her family for a large sum of money and he’s biding his time.”

”Something like what?” Jongwoo questioned, confused.

”…Like a sextape,” she answered in a hushed tone. “It’s a common tactic amongst blackmailing related crimes.”

Jongwoo shuddered, feeling violated at the thought that someone had spied on him having sex and even recorded it. “Disgusting. But if he tries, you’ll be able to stop him right?”

”We should be able to minimize the damage.”

”…That doesn’t sound very reassuring..”

“All I can promise you is that whenever Mr. Yoo makes his move, I will do everything I can to make sure he gets punished,” Officer Seo said confidently. 

Jongwoo still felt uneasy, but had no choice but to have a little faith. “I’m sure you will, Officer.”

“I’ll let you go now, Mr. Yoon. Enjoy your time in Jeju.” 

“Thanks, Officer.”  Jongwoo hung up. 

Why did Mr. Yoo have hidden cameras in our apartment? How did he even have access to do it? And why did he save clips of us? I should’ve asked about them.…maybe I can ask to see them when I get back to Seoul.

Jongwoo sighed. I need a beer cos what the fuck did I just hear? 

Jongwoo walked back to the bar and managed to order a beer quickly. As he waited and replayed the full conversation back in his head, he couldn’t help but think about the Officer looking into Moon Jo’s whereabouts. He knew partners were always the first to be investigated so it didn’t necessarily mean he’d done anything.

But.

Moon Jo was always going on about protecting him and if Ki Hyeok had really tried to hurt him then it stood to reason that Moon Jo would’ve stopped him before he got the chance.

I know it sounds crazy but could Moon Jo have known about Ki Hyeok’s plan somehow and protected me from him?…Now that I think about it, Moon Jo was the one who brought the injection mark to my attention…and that same day he said that he couldn’t show me his jewelry designs because his apartment was a mess…he didn’t seem shocked when I told him about Ki Hyeok either…

My reasoning wouldn’t hold up in a court of law and I don’t have any evidence, but he’s the only one paying close enough attention to me to notice if Ki Hyeok broke in…Moon Jo must’ve done something, right? It’s the only thing that makes sense. 

But instead of alarmed, Jongwoo felt…relieved.

He’d been harassed by many men in his lifetime and Ki Hyeok was more dangerous than he’d originally thought—could’ve done anything to him while he was drugged and vulnerable. Maybe Jongwoo was a bit twisted for such a tame reaction to Moon Jo likely killing Ki Hyeok but…was it wrong for him to want to be protected after everything he’d endured so far?

Before Moon Jo, only Chang Hyun had protected him, and even Chang Hyun had almost crossed the line for him. And that brutal loyalty had only deepened their bond. So why would Moon Jo keeping his word to protect him do any different?

Still, there were other possibilities and maybe Jongwoo was jumping to conclusions, but he couldn’t shake the feeling that he was right about Moon Jo doing something. 

Maybe I should just ask Moon Jo if he did it…Would he even admit to it if he did? Maybe. He’s very…obedient. Well, in bed..but I’m confident that he’s shameless enough to tell me the truth if I ask.”

Jongwoo looked around as his beer was finally handed to him. He swear he caught another glimpse of Moon Jo across the room. He wouldn’t have followed me here, would he? Well, maybe, but how would he even know I’m here?

Jongwoo chugged his beer, and wished his life wasn’t so damn complicated. Maybe if I were a better person my life wouldn’t be like this.

+++++

After a lovely family dinner at his aunt’s, Jongwoo and his family returned to the hotel late into the night and parted ways. Jongwoo went to the bar and bought himself a few cans of beer that he took back to his room. He stripped down to his boxers, intending to shower after enjoying a few drinks. He walked out onto the patio and sat on the bench, staring out at the beach as he sipped his beer, the breeze cool and pleasant against his skin.

The ocean was black and the sky was filled with stars—a nice change from how empty it always seemed to be in Seoul. The only light was a soft glow from the hotel that served the peaceful ambiance. 

It's nice here. I feel like it's easier to think...and I’ve got a lot to think about.

Jongwoo sighed and took another sip of his beer.  I'm a bit crazy for wanting to throw away my life for a man I barely know, aren't I?

Moon Jo's slim build flashed in his mind—in different positions—and Jongwoo smiled. But what a man he is...

Jongwoo chuckled to himself and took a big sip of his beer. If he were here, he'd probably be drinking too and listening to me tell him about dinner with my aunt and her family. He'd probably smile at me and laugh when I told him how Jinwoo managed to make the worst rice I've ever eaten.

And then there'd be a pause and then he'd say something sweet to seduce me and I would roll my eyes and...I would probably kiss him and we'd go back into the room and I would want to be on top again. 

Jongwoo bit his bottom lip then shook his head and sighed. He might’ve killed someone and here I am thinking about him like he’s harmless…There’s something wrong with me, huh? I should be terrified and thinking how to get away from him, but…I don’t want to cos…he’s mine. My Stalker, My Alpha, My Protector who might’ve killed for me...why should I toss him away now? Does that make sense?

Jieun flashed in his mind as if in response to his questions. But how can I just toss you away either? 

He chugged the last of his beer, set the can at his feet, and leaned back against the bench. He didn’t want to dwell on his dramatic and bizarre love life at the moment so he cracked open another beer and guzzled it down, burping loudly afterwards before grabbing the next one and cracking it open. He drank it much slower and allowed the alcohol to wash over him in a warm wave that made him feel a bit sleepy. 

He wasn’t drunk but buzzed enough to feel less stressed. But he couldn’t help but wish Moon Jo was with him, sharing in this moment with him and enjoying the breeze and the booze. 

I wonder if I really did see him earlier. If he really followed me here...how can I draw him out?

An idea popped into his head when he'd closed his eyes to think. He kept his eyes closed and slowly pretended to pass out on the bench, thinking Moon Jo would never allow him to be so vulnerable where just anybody could walk onto the patio and get to him. The persistent soft breeze on his half-naked body eventually made him cold, but he refused to move—confident that Moon Jo wouldn’t let him freeze.

Just when he thought of giving up, he heard someone walk up to him.

”Jagi, I know you’re faking.” Jongwoo’s stomach fluttered at the familiar, warm voice. “That’s not how you sound when you sleep.”

Jongwoo cracked one eye open and saw Moon Jo staring at him. “You really are stalking me, aren’t you?”

”You ran away without a word.” Not a hint of shame at being caught anywhere in his tone or expression. “What else was I to do?”

“I just needed some time to think.” Jongwoo admitted, opening his other eye and straightening up on the bench. 

”About what?”

“You.”

”What about me specifically?”

Jongwoo hesitated, feeling a bit embarrassed as he said, “Whether or not you should be my Alpha instead of Jieun.” 

Moon Jo stared at him for a moment then sat next to him on the bench, looking out at the water. “I know you aren’t considering this lightly, but I have to ask, do you like me that much?” 

Jongwoo looked at him in surprise. “You can’t tell?”

”I know you’ve said it before, but I wasn’t sure you meant it. You said it during a vulnerable time and then ran away without a word. I was worried you hated me for being with you during your heat.”

Guilt crashed down on Jongwoo. “I don’t hate you. You took care of me when I needed you—at least that’s how I see it—and…I meant it when I said I liked you. It’s not like with…it’s not the same as what happened last time. I ran away because I liked having you take care of me when I really shouldn’t.”

”Because of Miss Min.” Moon Jo guessed. 

”Yeah…she’s not just my girlfriend but someone I’ve been planning my life with for four years…I just need some time to think about what I want for my life.” 

Moon Jo nodded. “I see.” 

“I’m sorry for running away.” 

”It’s alright. I was just worried about you. I asked Miss Min where you were and she told me you were here visiting family.”

“I needed time away from her too."

“At least it’s not only me you ran away from.” 

A beat of silence.

The phone call from Officer Seo earlier popped into the forefront of his mind. “Jagi, there’s something I need to ask you.”

Moon Jo looked at him curiously. “You can ask me anything.”

Jongwoo hesitated, unsure if he really wanted to know the answer, but he pressed on, “Did you stop Ki Hyeok from attacking me that night?”

Moon Jo seemed surprised by the question. He turned to face Jongwoo fully. "Yes, but I thought you might've guessed that when you failed to mention my connection with him to that female officer."

“No, I…I just didn’t want you to become a suspect through anything I said…what did you say to Officer Seo? You never mentioned her contacting you.”

”I told her that we had a relationship and that he tried to leave a claiming bite on me through force and that I strangled him to get him to stop,” Moon Jo answered calmly. “I told her he had followed us around and that he attacked me on the rooftop but you stopped him and that that was the last time I saw him. And I didn’t mention this to you before, but when he attacked me on the rooftop it was all caught on camera so I made a formal complaint about him.”

Jongwoo took a second to process the information. “…You didn’t think to tell me any of this?”

”I didn’t think it was important. We’re both free from suspicion at the moment.”

”Wait…but if you really did stop Ki Hyeok…what did you do to him?”

Moon Jo stared at him. “Nothing he can recover from.”

Jongwoo’s heart skipped. Oh. He just admitted it so easily…

“He was going to hurt you Jagiya,” Moon Jo said when he didn’t react. “He wasn’t going to rob Miss Min anymore, he wanted to rape you, film it, and send it to me after he killed you. I know because I was watching him closely and I followed him into your apartment and knocked him out after he injected you.”

”I didn’t kill him immediately because I wanted to hear what his pathetic little mind had drummed up for you, but after he told me…well, I got so angry that I made sure he could never have another vile thought like that again.” His expression darkened, the look in his eyes wild and intense. He felt unfamiliar and a little terrifying. 

But Jongwoo felt the urge to smile. 

That expression reminded him of Chang Hyun defending him from some asshat who groped him or tried to corner him in the showers—a pretty regular occurrence even with suppressants. Chang Hyun would beat them until blood splattered on his face, until his knuckles were bruised and slick with blood—and he would curse at them, threaten to kill them if they ever came around Jongwoo again. And Jongwoo would laugh at their pathetic whines, the way they would flinch at Chang Hyun’s words because he found it all so satisfying. 

He felt that twisted satisfaction now too. 

“Jagiya?” Moon Jo called softly. 

Jongwoo cleared his throat and fidgeted in his seat. “How did he get into my apartment?” 

“I’m not sure,” Moon Jo answered. “My only guess would be that he managed to steal the master key from the security office.” 

Jongwoo frowned and shook his head. “Ah, he was so fucking creepy…”

”I just admitted to killing him and yet you seem more focused on the details,” Moon Jo observed. He sounded affectionate as he spoke, amused too. Always amused. 

Jongwoo noted that affection wasn’t only dripping from Moon Jo’s tone but the intense, almost seductive way he was staring at Jongwoo. Jongwoo felt his neck flush. I call him easy but look at me, one look and I almost want to drop this conversation and show him who he belongs to.  

But Jongwoo couldn’t drop this conversation, he needed to explain himself and how he felt. Even if what he was about to say was another unflattering part of himself he was offering up for Moon Jo’s consumption.

“Can I tell you something?” 

Moon Jo appeared a little confused as he said, “Of course.”

“So…I was given the opportunity to be exempted from my military service but I chose to do it anyway because I wanted to be strong and I didn’t want to rely on anyone to protect me. But I have relied on other people before. Do you remember my manager Chang Hyun?” 

“Vaguely. I wasn’t really looking at him that day.” 

Jongwoo rolled his eyes. “Well, Chang Hyun, actually served with me in the military. My first day there, there was this Alpha asshole, Kim Beomseok and he kept making jokes about claiming me against my will and then later in the day he grabbed me as I was walking by and pulled me into his lap—told me he’d put a pup in my belly so I wouldn’t have to finish my service.”

Moon Jo’s expression darkened.

”I punched him square in the face,” Jongwoo continued. “So he threw me on the floor and started wailing on me and since I didn’t have any training or much strength in my body, all I could do was take the hits. Chang Hyun was the only person who stepped in and even though he was a Beta, he put that asshole into a coma for three weeks.”

”But you know what he did after he knocked that guy unconscious? He turned to me, helped me get back on my feet, introduced himself to me, and we’ve been friends ever since. He even helped me learn how to fight and kept me motivated during training. I owe him for a lot.” 

“I even got strong enough to beat up that same asshole myself when he tried to attack me again in the showers later on and I almost—I almost killed him. Chang Hyun…he stopped me. He helped me report him and testified on my behalf so that I didn’t serve any time or get dishonorably discharged…But there were others.”

“So many Alphas tried to get to me in the showers or in the middle of the night but Chang Hyun beat the hell out of every one of them alongside me, and…I enjoyed watching him fight for me. I enjoyed that angry, wild look in his eyes, and I felt satisfied watching him defend me.”

”Isn’t that normal?”

Jongwoo shook his head. “It’s not. And neither is my reaction to what you did to Ki Hyeok. I’m grateful to you and…I only trust you more now.”

Moon Jo stared at him for a moment, stunned, then he smiled. “You never cease to amaze me, Jagi. I was sure you'd think differently of me if you found out about what I did."

"But I do think differently of you."

"Are you disgusted by me?"

Jongwoo shook his head.

"Scared?"

Jongwoo shook his head again. "I should be but I'm not. I just finally believe that you want to protect me and...I'm not saying I want you to keep killing for me, but knowing that you would makes me feel safe. And I know how fucked up that is but I'm tired of being so vulnerable just because of what I am."

"And maybe it's not fair to Jieun to think it, but I couldn't even rely on her to protect me from you." Jongwoo sighed, frustration with Jieun flaring once again. "I don't know. Maybe I've been just as strange as you all along."

"Perhaps," Moon Jo agreed. His expression turned seductive again, his gaze intense and drawing Jongwoo in. "But isn't that a good thing?

"I don't know. But it's just another reason I need to be alone to think. Can you give me some time?" 

”I would give you anything you asked for, Jagi.” Moon Jo slid off the bench and got on his knees in front of Jongwoo, staring up at him tenderly. “I am wholly devoted to you.”

Jongwoo stared down at him, uncertain. “What are you doing?”

”The best way to show one’s devotion is on one’s knees. Should I show you the depths of my devotion, Jagiya?”

Jongwoo twitched in his boxers. He nodded, mouth dry. 

Moon Jo kissed him through the thin fabric of his boxers, up and down along the shaft until he started sucking on the head, drooling and making a wet spot. Jongwoo closed his eyes and rested his head against the wall, pressing into Moon Jo’s mouth. Moon Jo stroked and squeezed Jongwoo’s thighs as he continued to work him over with his mouth—licking and tonguing at him obscenely.

Just as the fabric of his boxers started to cling and become uncomfortable, Moon Jo pulled his cock through the opening in his boxers and started kissing it all over. Jongwoo buried his right hand in Moon Jo’s hair and moaned softly. Moon Jo suddenly sucked the tip into his mouth, his tongue teasing the head of his cock while his hand pulled on the shaft.

My claiming bite is still there, Jongwoo noted when his fingers accidentally slid over the marks on the back of Moon Jo’s neck. He’s still mine.

Moon Jo’s mouth was warm and wet and wonderful, his tongue persistent and smooth against his skin. Jongwoo’s head fell back, eyes slipping closed as lost himself in the pleasure given to him. 

This man killed for me and now he’s sucking my cock like he worships me.

Jongwoo moaned loudly and thrust himself deeper into Moon Jo’s mouth—Moon Jo hummed and dropped his hand from Jongwoo’s cock. Moon Jo slipped his hand into Jongwoo’s boxers through the leg hole and teased his slick rim with his fingers. He sunk down slowly on Jongwoo’s cock while pressing two fingers inside of him, the sensation of filling and being filled almost too much for Jongwoo, his back arching off the bench. His grip in Moon Jo’s hair tightened and he barely refrained from shoving Moon Jo’s head down. 

Moon Jo pulled off suddenly. “Jagi, use my mouth, make me choke on you.”

Jongwoo whined, painfully hard. He didn’t hesitate to force Moon Jo’s head down or to shove his cock into his mouth and start fucking it. His rhythm wasn’t steady and he was kinda brutal because he couldn’t think past Moon Jo’s fingers gently fucking him, but Moon Jo’s scent seemed to flood his happiness directly into the ocean breeze. Jongwoo’s whole body warmed with pleasure.  

He heard Moon Jo gag on a particularly deep thrust down his throat and Jongwoo came from both ends—directly down Moon Jo’s throat, and clenched around his deft fingers. Moon Jo sucked and sucked on the tip of his dick until Jongwoo whined—too over sensitive to enjoy it anymore—then he pulled off with a wet pop, a string of spit connecting his bottom lip to the tip of Jongwoo’s cock.

Mine, Jongwoo thought. All mine. 

Moon Jo rested his head on Jongwoo’s thigh, staring up at him with his dark eyes, his breath making Jongwoo’s skin tingle. “Can you feel my devotion, Jagiya?”

Jongwoo reached down and brushed his knuckles against Moon Jo’s cheek. He nodded slowly. 

Moon Jo smiled, pleased, then forced the leg of Jongwoo’s boxers open wider and dipped his head down to lick at Jongwoo’s hole. Jongwoo’s thighs clamped around his head involuntarily and Moon Jo slipped his tongue inside, unbothered by suddenly being trapped there.

Jongwoo wanted to release him, but Moon Jo was so greedy when it came to his slick and he couldn’t—overwhelmed by that devilish tongue and greedy, suckling mouth glued to him. Jongwoo whined and shifted on the bench, his weight resting on Moon Jo’s shoulders.

Moon Jo’s mouth disappeared suddenly but before Jongwoo could complain, he heard fabric ripping and then he was being pulled even closer, Moon Jo’s tongue slipping in deeper. Jongwoo groaned. His underwear felt noticeably looser. 

So fucking greedy. How could he rip my underwear like that? 

Despite the minor complaint, Jongwoo felt slick rush out of him in a wave. 

Ah, I’m gonna come again already.

Moon Jo pulled away just then, managing to lift his head despite Jongwoo’s grip on his neck. His face was all wet, dripping with slick. “Can I ask you something, Jagi?”

“Now?” Jongwoo complained.

”Yes. Now.”

Jongwoo groaned squirming in frustration. “What is it?”

”Why did you never fall for your friend if him protecting you meant so much to you?” Moon Jo asked with a curious tone but his gaze seemed to bore into Jongwoo like he was searching for something. 

Jongwoo huffed, annoyed that Moon Jo had stopped eating him out for this bullshit. “Why? Are you jealous?”

”Depends on your answer.” 

Jongwoo sighed. “As much as I tend to avoid Alphas, I always wanted one as a mate because Beta’s don’t have the same biological urges and they’re not as fertile. If I had a Beta as a mate I’d exhaust them while in heat because they can’t knot me and fulfill that need and they can’t go into Rut to sync with my Heat either.”

“So for practical reasons,” Moon Jo said.

”Partly, but also because I’ve never thought of Chang Hyun like that and vice versa.”

Moon Jo nodded, seemingly satisfied by his answer.

He’s definitely the jealous type, huh? Petty asshole.

Moon Jo went back to licking and sucking at his hole until Jongwoo came all over his face, holding him in place, suffocating him against his skin. Jongwoo laid there in a daze, his body going limp, allowing Moon Jo to move again. 

Moon Jo kept Jongwoo in position so he could lick him clean, every last drop of slick and cum cleaned up in just a few minutes. Once he was satisfied, Moon Jo put him back on the bench properly and rested his head on Jongwoo’s thigh, staring up at him intensely. 

Jongwoo stared down at him and stroked his head. I’m really…falling too fast. But I don’t know how to stop. It’s like no matter what he does, I still want him…Is this…could he really be my true mate? 

Jongwoo watched as Moon Jo started to kiss and lick his thighs, enjoying the tingling of his skin in response, but after a few minutes he felt himself getting hard. “Jagiya.” Jongwoo called softly. 

”Hm?” Moon Jo lifted his head, his hair falling over his eyes. 

Jongwoo pushed Moon Jo’s hair out of his face and then stroked his head affectionately. “Before you go, I want something more.”

“Just say the word and it’s yours.”

“Your ass.”

Moon Jo smiled. “How do you want it?”

”Let’s shower first.”

+++++

Jongwoo kissed Moon Jo reassuringly as he pushed inside his lube-slicked hole. Moon Jo had apparently been prepared to have sex and even spend the night, surprising Jongwoo when he suddenly pulled a bag out from underneath the small table on the patio. Jongwoo had found it both creepy and endearing. 

Jongwoo hummed as he bottomed out, still not used to being the one on top with a male Alpha. Moon Jo wrapped his legs around Jongwoo’s waist and pulled him in closer, forcing him in deeper. They both groaned. 

Jongwoo reached in between them and wrapped his hand around Moon Jo’s cock, jerking him off lazily as he started rocking into him. God I love the feel of him in my hand. Of him wrapped around my dick.

Moon Jo moaned soft and drawn out, staying noticeably still. Jongwoo ran his free hand over Moon Jo’s torso, groping and feeling him up to his hearts desire before he wrapped it around Moon Jo’s cock too. Moon Jo’s hands clutched the sheets tightly as Jongwoo pulled and twisted his cock with both hands.

”You’re allowed to move,” Jongwoo said. “You’re allowed to touch and grab any part of me, Jagi.”

Moon Jo stared up at him, gaze soft and lazy with pleasure, mouth slack and open. 

Jongwoo couldn’t resist kissing the side of his face and along his jawline before kissing him gently on the mouth. He ground his hips, pushing in harder—again and again until he felt Moon Jo clench around him. He moved a little faster, feeling himself get wet at both ends, and he kept going, determined to make Moon Jo come like this.

Moon Jo finally moved, his hands settling on Jongwoo’s back and pulling him into a hug. He kissed Jongwoo’s neck all over then proceeded to lick at his scent gland.

Claim me, Jongwoo thought, barely resisting the urge to say it.

Jongwoo whined when he felt Moon Jo’s sharpened teeth graze his skin just before his mouth disappeared from Jongwoo’s neck. Moon Jo grabbed the pillow next to him and sunk his teeth in and perhaps it was a bit ridiculous, but Jongwoo felt jealous. And because he felt jealous, Jongwoo made his teeth change and bit into the patch of skin nearest Moon Jo’s scent gland—warm blood in his mouth.

Moon Jo whined pathetically and came instantly in Jongwoo’s hands, painting both of them with thick stripes of cum. Jongwoo managed a few more thrusts before he came too. 

Jongwoo slowly released Moon Jo’s skin as he came down from his orgasm and licked at the wound apologetically. I shouldn’t have done that without asking. 

Jongwoo waited to be scolded for doing it without permission this time, but when Moon Jo was finally able to pull the pillow from his mouth, he just pulled him into a kiss instead. When he pulled away he said, “I’m not mad, Jagi. You can claim me as many times as you like.”

“Isn’t it a little mean when you have to bite into a pillow?” 

“I don’t mind. I’m already fixated on you, I doubt the bite marks will cause any noticeable change.” 

Jongwoo still felt a little guilty but before he could apologize, Moon Jo continued on,

”I like you, Jagi. I didn’t get to say it last time, but it’s important to me that I say it now, especially now that you know what lengths I will go to keep you safe.” 

Jongwoo nodded slowly then said, “I still like you, but I need some time to process everything. Space too. I want to decide my future with a clear head and I don’t think I can do that around you so…I’m going to take some time, I don’t know how long, to just focus on writing and what kind of future I want and who I want to share it with.”

”Of course. I understand that this isn’t easy for you, but I have faith that you’ll come back to me when the time is right.”

Jongwoo stared into his dark eyes and found only sincerity. He kissed Moon Jo passionately—as if for the last time, then pulled out of him and dragged him to the bathroom to take another shower. They had shower sex and Jongwoo narrowly avoided getting knotted, before he had Moon Jo dress and sneak out of his room. Jongwoo had wanted to walk him to his car, but Moon Jo had refused to let him, insisting he needed to rest. 

Once alone, Jongwoo couldn’t help but stare at the ceiling. Just what the hell am I going to do?

Jongwoo woke up the next day to someone knocking on his door insistently. He groaned and reluctantly pushed the covers off, immediately missing the warmth of the blanket. When he opened the door, his heart stopped. 

“Jieun?”

She smiled. “Surprise, Oppa!” 

“What are you doing here?” He stepped aside to let her into the room. 

She walked in with a big suitcase rolling behind her. “Well, I felt awful that I missed your heat, so I asked my supervisor for three days off and they gave them to me since I sacrificed my vacation to help last time.”

“Oh…that’s great.” He said. Fortunately, he still sounded half-sleep so his conflicted feelings didn’t bleed through his tone. 

“Are you still sleepy, Baby? You can go back to bed. Your mom said that everyone’s gonna meet at the beach outside of the hotel around 1.” 

Jongwoo hummed and rubbed sleep from his eyes. “Yeah, I think I’ll sleep a bit longer.” He went back to lie in the bed while Jieun settled in. He was sleeping on the pillow Moon Jo had bitten and he subtly pushed it behind the headboard while bringing the second pillow underneath it under his head. 

He sniffed the sheets but Moon Jo’s scent had faded away already. He listened to her shuffle around as quietly as she could and he wondered what he was going to do. He’d wanted to come here for space and to think, but Jieun had followed him unexpectedly.

Should I tell her what I’m feeling?

+++++

The look Jongwoo’s mother gave him when him and Jieun showed up to the beach made him squirm. She knew what he was guilty of but she still looked at him sympathetically. He avoided her gaze and stuck with Jinwoo, Jieun, and his Aunt’s husband and kids while his mother caught up with his Aunt. Hours flew by and Jongwoo actually managed to have fun despite feeling uncomfortable around Jieun. 

Eventually though, his mother walked up to them while they were building a sandcastle. 

She got on her knees in the empty patch of sand to Jongwoo’s left. “You two really gave your all to build this, huh?”

”Hey, I helped!” Jongwoo’s niece protested.

”Me too!” His nephew chimed in.

”Jongwoo spent ten minutes on one wall,” Jinwoo chimed in. “Jieun and I built all the towers.”

Jongwoo pouted at his brothers dismissal, mostly just to make Jieun laugh. She did and he felt pleased with himself. 

His mother chuckled and pinched Jongwoo’s cheek. “Don’t pout like a little boy, dear.” 

Jongwoo shot her puppy eyes. “But he’s being mean to me.” 

Jinwoo huffed. “You’re totally uncool, Hyung.” 

Jongwoo gave him a blank stare then kicked one of the towers he’d watched his brother built. Jinwoo blinked in disbelief and then he scrambled towards Jongwoo only to be caught in between their mother’s arms. 

“But mom it took me twenty minutes to build that!” Jinwoo protested.

She shook her head then turned to Jongwoo.  “The sun’s setting and it’s quite nice out. Why don’t you and Jieun take a walk along the beach?”

She said it as a suggestion but the look in her eyes told him it wasn’t. 

The nerves in Jongwoo’s stomach flared. “Jieun, do you want to?” 

”Yeah. It sounds romantic.”

Jongwoo forced a smile. I wanted time to think but I guess I’ll just have to wing it.

They got up and Jieun took his hand to lead them away. The sky was pink and orange and the light was soft and warm. But Jongwoo’s palms tingled with nerves and he couldn’t even enjoy the nice breeze on his skin. 

What do I even say to her?

”You act like such a kid around your brother,” Jieun said suddenly. “It’s cute.”

Jongwoo forced a smile. “That’s just how siblings are.”

”I wonder if that’s how our kids will be too when they’re older.”

”Maybe. I guess we’ll have to see.” He answered vaguely.

Jieun squeezed his hand lightly. “I hope you get pregnant this time. I want to start our family already.”

Jongwoo looked down awkwardly and slowly she stopped walking, forcing him to stop too. 

“Is something wrong?”

“Actually…could we find a place to talk?” 

“Um…okay, let’s walk a little further down.” She let go of his hand and he started walking first.

I guess I’ll just tell her what I’ve been feeling lately. I won’t mention Moon Jo or what I did just yet. I want to know how she feels without him as a factor—that’s all.

They walked for about ten minutes to a spot that was empty and Jongwoo sat down in the sand and waited for Jieun to do the same before he spoke. 

”Jieun, there’s something I need to tell you.”

“What is it, Oppa?” 

“I…I’m not happy,” he admitted. “I’m not happy with how things are with us right now.” 

Jieun stared at him for a few seconds before replying, “I know I haven’t been around much, but I thought everything was fine. H—how long have you felt like this?”

”Since what happened with Jaeho.” 

She frowned. “You’ve been unhappy for that long? Why didn’t you say something sooner, Baby?”

Jongwoo looked out at the sunset. “Because it doesn’t feel fair to say I’m unhappy when I’m the one who messed up.”

“Jongwoo—“

Jongwoo cut in quickly. ”I know, you’re not mad about what happened. But I am. You were supposed to be there and you weren’t. You left me vulnerable to anyone who might’ve come along...and someone did.”

“And it makes me feel sick to my stomach when I think about it so I don’t. But what actually made me move back to my mother’s was that I was stuck in one particular moment with Jaeho.”

”No matter what I did, I kept going back to that moment like I was stuck in a loop. And I didn’t know how to be with you. I only came back after I finally got out of the loop and I thought we could start fresh but…”

”But I was gone again,” she finished, sounding guilty. 

”Yeah…you were. You always are.”

Jieun took a moment to collect her thoughts then said, “I’m sorry, Oppa. I didn’t realize just how much that day with Jaeho affected you…I mean, I knew something was wrong when you insisted on moving back to your mother’s but I didn’t know how to help.”

”I just needed you to be there,” He told her earnestly. “I needed you to let me talk about it but you just insisted that it was fine and cut me off every time I tried to tell you it wasn’t.”

She nodded slowly. “I’ve really been letting you down lately, haven’t I?” She sounded sad.

”I know you don't mean to but that still doesn’t change how I feel. I’m sorry.”

“You don’t have to be sorry about that, Baby.” She grabbed his hand in between both of hers. “Can I ask you something?” 

“What?”

”Are you angry at Jaeho-ssi?” 

Jongwoo wasn’t sure how to answer that. “I’m…angry that he showed up this time, but mostly, I just feel uncomfortable around him now. What happened between us…it wasn’t right but it was my fault so I feel awkward. I even feel like it’s my fault that he came around again hoping I might ask him again.”

“Actually…that might be my fault,” Jieun said, sounding guilty.

Jongwoo titled his head in confusion. ”What do you mean?”

”A week before your heat I saw him around the hospital and he commented on how overworked I seemed and I said that I was but I was going to get a week off because your heat was starting soon.” 

Jongwoo frowned. “What was he doing at the hospital?”

”His mom had a colonoscopy.” 

“Oh…but that’s not your fault, you were just talking to him, you couldn’t have known he’d come around.”

”I know but still…I wasn’t thinking when I said it.”

He squeezed her hand. “Look, I’m not asking you not to trust him or even to hate him but I don’t want to be alone with him anymore. I’ll still see him at work but I don’t think we can be friends anymore.”

Jieun nodded. “I understand. I think that’s smart.”

Jongwoo nodded too then took a deep breath. “But it won’t fix everything.”

”You’re frustrated that I’m at work all the time,” she said. “I know. But in a week there’ll be new residents and I’ll get to work less. I can be around more.”

Jongwoo looked uncertain. “Are you sure you won’t get bored and start picking up extra shifts anyway?”

”Right now, I think my time should be spent on you, Oppa. Or I think you’ll really break up with me.”

Jongwoo nodded and she looked away but not before he caught the flash of hurt on her face. “It’s because I still love you that I’m telling you everything in my head. I don’t want to break up but I don’t want to live my life alone in your fancy apartment. I don’t want to raise a pup by myself either, I want a partner.”

”I understand, Jongwoo,” she said quietly. “I just wish I’d noticed sooner that you were unhappy so I could’ve done something already.”

“You can’t always know what’s in someone’s head,” he pointed out, nudging her gently with his shoulder. 

“I guess not.” She looked at him, looking quite sad. “But remember how I used to always know what you were craving and you’d light up like I was your favorite person in the whole world when I bought it for you? Or how I used to know when you were feeling down and I’d take you on a date make you feel better.”

”I used to just know with one look, but now I can’t even guess…Will you give me a chance to do better and remind you why we should be together?”

Jongwoo hesitated. Moon Jo’s smiling face flashed in his head. But still, he nodded. All he’s wanted for a while now is for things with Jieun to return to normal and he wasn’t going to blow his last opportunity to try. One way or another, things would finally get settled between them.

*****

Nineteen Days Since Jongwoo Asked For Space

Moon Jo stared at the clip in front of him and refrained from smirking. It was like finding the Holy Grail. If Jagi doesn’t come to me soon, I’ll blow up his future with that woman.

Moon Jo understood more than ever that Jongwoo had to choose him over Jieun or everything would fall apart between them. To Jongwoo, choice and power were monumental—they were everything. And he wouldn’t take it well if Moon Jo tried to force his hand. 

Jongwoo already knew what he was capable of so if he killed Jieun just because he was jealous, he would lose him forever. So she had to remain unharmed.

But that Beta was a different story. The Beta could disappear one day and Jongwoo would be grateful—once he realized the true depth of what had happened to him that is.

Still, it wasn’t in Moon Jo’s nature to sit still perpetually, and if Jongwoo tried to choose that woman, well Moon Jo would just have to reveal her unfiltered thoughts and see if Jongwoo could still look at her the same. But for now, he would be patient—Jongwoo’s reward for accepting that he’d killed Ki Hyeok instead of abandoning him or turning him in.

A security alert flashed on Moon Jo’s phone screen and he quickly unlocked his phone and clicked on the security cam in his living room. He saw Jongwoo standing in the middle of his living room, a book in his hand. Is that the annotated copy of his book? He finally remembered it?

Moon Jo called Jongwoo as he approached his book shelves. Jongwoo answered but didn’t speak. “Come to return what’s mine, Jagi?“

“How did you know?”

“There’s security cameras in my apartment.”

”Oh.” Jongwoo looked around but didn’t seem to spot the camera.

They both were silent.

“This isn’t me saying goodbye,” Jongwoo blurted suddenly. “I just missed your scent.” 

“Just my scent?”

”…No.”

Moon Jo smiled, pleased. “Why don’t you grab my pajama shirt and wear it out? You can leave your shirt so I can carry your scent too.” 

Jongwoo smiled and put the book on the shelf. “Okay…is it okay if I nap in your bed?”

”Of course, but…can’t I see you?”

Jongwoo hesitated but nodded before he said, “Just for a little while.”

“Why don’t you nap and I’ll make you lunch?”

”Wait, are you here?”

”I’m in my second room.” 

“Oh. Can I come in?”

Moon Jo stood and scanned the room, clicking away everything on his desktop screen. “Just let me unlock the door.” 

“Okay.”

Moon Jo turned off his computer screen and walked over to the door. He took one last look around. Fortunately, he’d had to deep clean and tuck everything away after he’d killed Ki Hyeok so anything incriminating was locked away. He opened the door and found Jongwoo standing there. He looked thinner and had dark circles around his eyes.

“Jagiya.” Moon Jo greeted.

They stared at each other for a moment then hung up their phones, pocketing them awkwardly. 

“Come in,” Moon Jo said, taking a step back.

Jongwoo walked in and looked around. “Is that a dental chair?”

”Yes.”

”Why do you have that here?” 

“I ran out of storage space whilst preparing for the renovation and had to keep it here.”

Jongwoo nodded. He wandered farther into the room, looking around and taking everything in. “So this is your office?”

”Yes. Though most of my work is done at my clinic, occasionally I need to do some updating and organizing at home.” Moon Jo stepped directly into Jongwoo’s space, crowding in closer when Jongwoo didn’t move away. “It’s also where I design and make my rings.” 

“Can I see them?”

“Sure, but is that what you really want to do right now?” Moon Jo questioned.

Jongwoo shook his head.

“Then do what you really want.”

Jongwoo grabbed the front of Moon Jo’s shirt and pulled him down into a rough kiss. He was even greedier than normal, more persistent, even as the kiss became softer and more languid. Sweet.

Jongwoo pulled away, staring at Moon Jo for a moment—an almost angry look in his eyes as he pulled Moon Jo into a tight hug. “I’ve fucking missed you,” He grumbled.

Moon Jo chuckled and hugged him back. “I’ve missed you too, Jagi.” 

They stood there for a long moment, just holding each other and inhaling each others scents. 

“I can’t stay long,” Jongwoo said after a while. “Jieun’s coming home early tonight and she’s taking me on a date.”

Jealousy raged inside of Moon Jo. “Does that mean you’re staying with her?”

”Not necessarily. Um. I want to give her one more chance cos we’ve been together so long and…so far it’s been going well. Mostly. She’s been calling more and coming home at least once a day even if she can’t always stay. But…I keep thinking about you—a shadow behind my every thought.”

Moon Jo smiled, his jealousy easing just a bit.

”I know it’s not exactly what you want to hear but…I don’t know. I shouldn’t have come here,” Jongwoo took a step back but Moon Jo was quick to catch him and pull him in tightly.

”If you’re giving her another chance, can’t I get another one too? We haven’t known each other long and don’t know each other well but can’t we learn more before you make a final decision? I don’t want to lose you to something as simple as time and history.”

Jongwoo stroked Moon Jo’s back with one hand. “Wouldn’t that be too hard?”

”I would do anything to give you everything you want, even if it means sharing you for a little while.” 

Jongwoo nuzzled against his neck. “I don’t deserve you.” 

Moon Jo hugged him tighter. “But I’m yours anyway.” 

And I’ll make you beg to be mine.

*****

A few days went by with Moon Jo going over to Jongwoo’s apartment everyday to make him all his meals—and get to know each other just a little more. It was mostly just talk about when they were younger—Jongwoo was rowdy and made friends easy while Moon Jo was quiet and had few friends.

Jongwoo played soccer and earned lots of trophies while Moon Jo played basketball and earned trophies only for his twin brothers to hide, destroy, and throw them away. Moon Jo excelled in academics while Jongwoo did decently but wasn’t ever at the top of his grade.

Moon Jo had gone to university right away while Jongwoo had gone to do his military service first before going. Moon Jo had been on his school’s swim team in university but had broken his ankle two days before an Olympic qualifier and he’d failed to go professional.

He didn’t tell Jongwoo that someone had pushed him down the stairs. Someone in his family but he’d never been able to figure out who because they never admitted to it and he hadn’t seen them.

Jongwoo told him about teaching his little brother how to tie a tie and how to shave and all the things Moon Jo imagined a father was supposed to teach their son. And Moon Jo told him how Mrs. Eom had taught him all of the same things. 

Moon Jo found he liked sharing these mundane little details of his life just as much as he liked learning them about Jongwoo. He felt even closer to Jongwoo—as if these little details were threads entwining them together at the places they hadn’t met before.

The only problem was Jieun kept coming home and interrupting them—or rather she would text Jongwoo she was coming and he’d be ushered out immediately.

Each time made him want to kill her more but he refrained. 

But then, one day, Moon Jo was in the middle of washing dishes as Jongwoo told him a story about him and Chang Hyun pulling a prank in their barracks when they heard someone at the door. Jongwoo froze and stopped talking.

”Jagi,” Moon Jo whispered. “You shouldn’t just stand there, start drying the dishes.”

Jongwoo snapped out of it and started doing just that as Jieun walked into the room.

“Oh, Mr. Seo, did you come to have dinner with Oppa again?”

“I did.”

”Is there any left for me?”

”Yes, there’s still leftovers cooling on the counter,” Moon Jo answered.

Jieun rushed over to see what he’d made and lit up before his eyes. “Yum, curry!” She exclaimed excitedly. 

She quickly grabbed a spoon and started eating right there. She groaned softly. “This is delicious, Mr. Seo!”

He forced a polite smile. “I’m glad you like it.”

She wolfed it down while they finished the dishes, handing the container to Moon Jo once she ate everything. Then she went to the fridge and grabbed a bottle of water, guzzling it down.

”Miss Min.”

”Hm?” 

“I was just about to ask Jongwoo to join me for a movie when you walked in, but since you’re here, would you like to come too?” He felt Jongwoo’s gaze on his face but didn’t look at him.

”What movie?” She asked curiously.

”A horror movie about a priest and a vampire he’s trying to save his town from.” 

“Sounds interesting,” she said. “Is it alright if I shower first?”

”Of course,” Moon Jo replied with a smile. “The movie doesn’t start for another hour.”

”Great, I’ll be quick,” Jieun said. She left the room after he nodded. 

Jongwoo turned to him with a glare and a sigh. “…Is there really a movie?”

”Yes, I was going to surprise you after I finished the dishes.”

“But why would you invite her?”

”Why not? It’s rude not to.”

”Why would you care about that?”

Moon grinned obnoxiously. “Because it’s fun watching you squirm when she comes around.”

”You’re insufferable.” 

“And you should get ready to leave.” 

Jongwoo rolled his eyes and Moon Jo surprised him with a kiss on his cheek. Jongwoo tensed then smacked Moon Jo’s chest. “Don’t do that,” he hissed. 

“Why? Scared she’ll see,” He taunted.

Jongwoo glared. “Annoying bastard.”

Moon Jo grinned and started washing the dish Miss Min had handed him. “I’ll just finish this while you two get ready.” 

Jongwoo shook his head and left. 

Don’t worry, Jagi. Nobody will know about us until I want them to. 

*****

Everything was perfectly pleasant both on the ride to the theater and as they got their tickets and snacks. Though Jongwoo did seem a bit nervous the whole time. Moon Jo found it amusing that he was even worried, a little insulted too, but he was always willing to give Jongwoo some grace. If he could accept Moon Jo killing, then he could accept that Jongwoo was a bit paranoid and distrustful by nature. 

A few minutes after the movie started, Moon Jo glanced over at Jieun and saw her fast asleep. He looked at Jongwoo who was watching the movie, clearly invested in it already. He smiled to himself. Jongwoo was so precious. He reached over and grabbed Jongwoo’s hand, feeling him tense and watching as he looked at Jieun before looking at him. 

Moon Jo squeezed his hand and Jongwoo squeezed it back. He hid their hands from Jieun’s sight by putting the popcorn tub in the way. Moon Jo grinned and returned his attention to the movie. It actually felt quite thrilling to be affectionate with Jongwoo right under Jieun’s nose. 

Moon Jo didn’t find the movie they watched particularly interesting but he enjoyed the way Jongwoo fed him popcorn and candy throughout it—Jongwoo becoming more interested in spoiling him than watching the movie. Unfortunately, Jieun eventually woke up and Jongwoo turned his attention to her instead and the last half of the movie was spent watching the two of them whisper to each other, but Jongwoo kept Jieun so distracted that she didn’t notice he was still holding Moon Jo’s hand. 

Jagi is being a bit shameless, isn’t he? 

But Moon Jo felt more amused than annoyed. From the first time they met he could tell Jongwoo wasn’t as normal as he seemed—perhaps because he also wore a mask—but each new layer he uncovered only endeared Jongwoo to him more. He pretended to be like everyone else but violence didn’t make him flinch, he was impulsive and greedy and shameless. Moon Jo had barely done anything to corrupt him. 

Perhaps that had been his mistake with Ki Hyeok—trying to force too much of himself inside instead of simply unlocking the door and coaxing his true self out. 

After the movie was over, they split up to go the bathroom. Jongwoo grabbed his hand the second they were in the restroom and dragged him into a stall.

”Jagi?”

Jongwoo reached behind his head and ran his fingers over the mark there. “This one’s still very prominent…weird. Jieun said you smelled a little like me today but I don’t know if it’s because we showered together or because of this.”

He noticed then that Jongwoo had missed a button on his shirt. ”What did you tell her?”

”I said that you showered at our place because you got too hot while cooking.”

”…And she believed you?”

”She said you tend to dress warm so it wasn’t a surprise.” 

Moon Jo hummed and crowded into Jongwoo’s space, giving him an opportunity to pull away before kissing him. Jongwoo’s hand curled around the back of his head and pulled him closer. It wasn’t exactly a pleasant setting for this, but Moon Jo wanted a bit more affection, a little more love after what he’d put up with in the theater.

Jongwoo slipped his tongue into his mouth, teasing him with it.

Moon Jo sighed and wrapped his arms around Jongwoo’s waist, pulling him in closer. Just as he felt desire stir within him, Jongwoo pulled away and wiped his mouth.

”We have to go before Jieun wonders where we are.”

Moon Jo nodded and wiped his own mouth. 

“But when we get home, invite me to drink on the roof in front of her.” 

He grinned. “And should I actually meet you there with a drink or are we just going straight to bed?”

”Let’s drink first.” 

Moon Jo nodded, pleased, then left the stall first. There wasn’t anyone to notice that he hadn’t used the restroom or that Jongwoo came out of the same stall thirty seconds later. They walked out together and looked around the lobby for Jieun but didn’t see her right away. 

Moon Jo noticed Jieun first and couldn't resist planting a seed of doubt in her mind. He turned to Jongwoo just as she started to look in their direction, and fixed the buttons on his shirt, then he pulled at the bottom of his shirt to straighten it out.

Jongwoo looked down at himself. "Oh, I didn't realize. Thanks."

Moon Jo stepped forward and pulled down the back of Jongwoo’s shirt, staring down at his pretty face with a soft smile. "It's my fault for springing plans on you last minute."

Jongwoo put a hand on his chest to prevent him from getting closer. "Next time, just say you were about to leave."

"Why? Is it difficult being on two dates simultaneously?"

"Jagi..." 

"I'm only teasing you.”

Jongwoo pretended to fix Moon Jo’s collar. “Not here. And get your hands off before Jieun sees.” 

Moon Jo let get of his shirt and stepped back. “I could kiss you right here and we could find out if she’s the type who’ll fight for you.”

Jongwoo quickly looked around and spotted Jieun watching them. He smiled and waved her over. “I could kiss her right now in front of you while you have my claim on your neck and we can test whether or not you’re bullshitting about being mine to hurt.” 

Moon Jo chuckled but he was irritated by the thought of Jongwoo kissing her in front of him.

Jongwoo kept his eyes on Jieun as she made her way over. 

“Mr. Seo looks after you so well, Oppa,” she commented. There was an edge to the way she said it that made Moon Jo curious. 

”He does.” 

Jieun grabbed Jongwoo’s hand. “Why don’t we all get ice cream?”

”Yeah, let’s go,” Jongwoo said. 

Moon Jo nodded his agreement and let them walk ahead of him. His eyes stayed latched onto their hands. Should I cut her hand off? 

When he finally looked up he caught Jieun watching him and he smiled politely. She returned the smile but noticeably pulled Jongwoo closer. 

She’s finally acting a little possessive…I wonder if she saw something just now that she particularly didn’t like…

*****

And later, when they were parting ways, she displayed a subtle possessiveness once again. 

“Jongwoo, would you like to join me on the roof for a drink?” Moon Jo asked. 

Before Jongwoo could respond, Jieun said, “He can’t tonight, Mr. Seo. As much fun as we had tonight, I’d like to have Jongwoo to myself for the rest of the night.”

Moon Jo looked at her curiously. “I see…then maybe another time.”

”Yeah, another time,” Jieun said. Jongwoo glanced between them, confused. 

“Right, well, goodnight,” He said. 

“Goodnight,” they called in unison. 

He walked away and tried not to seethe about his plans being ruined. 

Chapter Text

Moon Jo watched from a distance as Miss Min walked into a restaurant near her work with a colleague of hers—a woman named Yujin. He waited until they chose a table before he snuck into the restaurant.

He sat at the table behind them with his back to Jieun so he could listen in on their conversation. It wasn't that interesting until after he ordered food and they were brought their own. 

"I heard you FaceTiming your boyfriend earlier. You two were laughing a lot. Does that mean things are improving?" Yujin asked.

"I think so. Since Jeju we've been talking more and spending more time together... "

"But?"

Jieun took a deep breath. "But I'm starting to feel weird about his relationship with our neighbor, Mr. Seo."

"Really? Why?" 

"Well...the other day the three of us went to the movies and after the movie was over, we all went to the bathroom. But when they came out, Mr. Seo turned around and fixed Jongwoo's clothes."

"So?"

"Jongwoo hates having other people in his space," Jieun explained. "But it wasn't just that, it was the look on Jongwoo’s face when he did it—like he enjoyed having Mr. Seo take care of him. He looked so…happy."

”Ah, I see…Well, you did say he doesn’t have many friends and that he’s lonely. Maybe he’s just relying on his Hyung because he doesn’t have anyone else.” Yujin suggested. 

“Hyung? More like Ahjussi.” Jieun muttered. “He’s nine years older than Jongwoo, and ten years older than me.”

“Wow, you sound really bothered by him.” Yujin said. “Did it really bug you that much seeing Jongwoo happy interacting with someone else?”

”It bothers me because Jongwoo hates being around other Alphas but somehow, he’s perfectly fine with Mr. Seo crowding into space, touching him, and going over to make him dinner everyday." Jieun clarified.

"I didn’t think much of it before because Mr. Seo seemed so boring and harmless, but because he’s like that, Jongwoo seems to rely on him. He should only rely on me.” 

“Plus, Jongwoo…” She trailed off, hesitant to continue.

”Jongwoo?” Yujin prompted. 

“Jongwoo complained about Mr. Seo hitting on him before and I thought he was being sensitive because of his past experiences or trying to get my attention since I wasn’t around. Now I’m not sure. Jongwoo kind of stopped bringing it up after this fight we had before his heat.”

“Weird.” Yujin hummed. “Wait, you missed part of his heat, right?”

”Yeah?”

”And all of a sudden, Jongwoo doesn’t have anything bad to say about Mr. Seo and spends time with him whenever you’re not there?” Her tone dripped with suspicion. 

Moon Jo curled his hand into a fist. 

“Jongwoo wouldn’t do that,” Jieun said, clearly understanding what her friend was hinting at.

“He’s a man, he would.”

”Jongwoo is a loyal person,” Jieun insisted.

Yujin was slow to reply. “…Okay, so Jongwoo wouldn’t cheat on you. Why are you worried about Mr. Seo then?”

Jieun sighed. “Because Jongwoo never suggested breaking up before and…I’m scared that a rich, handsome, more experienced Alpha who likes literature and forensics and swimming might actually steal him from me.”

How does she know that? Has Jagi been talking about me? Moon Jo smiled, pleased. 

“So say something.” Yujin said firmly.

”Say what? ‘Stop having a friend’?”

”I mean, yeah, but maybe add, the ‘Alpha’ part.”

Jieun seemed unsure. “…Wouldn’t it just be easier on focusing on our relationship instead of sounding jealous and petty?”

“It’s your relationship, you’re allowed to sound jealous and petty.”

”Maybe…we did have a fight before because he wanted me to be jealous…”

”So act jealous and tell him stop hanging out with your neighbor,” Yujin said. 

Jieun still seemed hesitant. “And what if he doesn’t want to?”

”That’s when you question him about their friendship.”

“…I don’t know if that’s the right thing. I’ve disappointed Jongwoo so much and asking him to distance himself from Mr. Seo just feels too unfair when things aren’t good between us.”

”But what if I’m right and he is cheating on you?” Yujin questioned.

“Then…I’ll break up with him first but until then, I’ll do what I can to keep him. Even if it means being uncomfortable about their friendship. But I will keep an eye on them,” Jieun answered. 

”You’re better than me. I would give my boyfriend an ultimatum and dump him if he didn’t do what I wanted.” 

“That’s why none of your relationships have last more than three months and I’ve been in a relationship for four years,” Jieun muttered. 

“Wow, you always get so mean after asking for my opinions.”

“Well you’re my only friend at work, so your opinions are the only ones I can hear anyway. Even if I don’t agree.”

“Well maybe if you hadn’t set Hana up with that Beta asshole, she’d still be talking to you.”

“I told you, I didn’t know Jaeho liked me.”

“Him kissing you at Jongwoo’s book launch party wasn’t a clue?” Yujin questioned.

“Okay, so I knew, but that’s why I tried to set him up with Hana—to keep him away from me.”

“And now she hates you and Jaeho keeps showing up to the hospital.”

“He’s my friend.”

”Uh huh. And Mr. Seo is just Jongwoo’s friend.” 

“Yujin.”

”What? I just find it interesting how Jaeho slept with your boyfriend but it’s you he keeps coming around to see.”

“He just likes to take care of me.”

”Right…”

”Whatever. We’re just friends.” Jieun insisted.

Moon Jo listened for a few more minutes but nothing of interest was said after that, so he left. He was growing so very tired of Jieun’s flippant attitude towards her own relationships. She shouldn’t be so greedy and just pick one. Only Jagi is allowed to be so greedy. 

*****

With Miss Min’s feelings laid out for him, he felt slightly more comfortable, but then there was still the Jaeho problem. Moon Jo took a page out of Mrs. Eom’s book and found a way to spike Jaeho’s protein shake at the gym. After Jaeho had stumbled to his car and fallen asleep in the back seat, Moon Jo swept in. 

Moon Jo lifted Jaeho’s phone from his gym bag and looked through it in the front seat. I’ll take everything from you, you smug bastard. You’ll suffer then die when I want you to. 

Once he found his smoking gun, he looked through Jaeho’s pictures and found something that made it very hard not to just kill him—a video of him fucking Jongwoo from behind. Jongwoo was too out of it to notice—groaning and squirming with his eyes closed. For his own peace of mind, Moon Jo went throughout all of Jaeho’s messaging apps to see if he’d sent it to anyone but he hadn’t.

Moon Jo deleted the video off the phone and the backup in the cloud. What a vile creature he is. 

“Oppa,” Jieun called. 

”Hm?” Jongwoo asked, distracted by rubbing sun screen on his legs. 

”I bought a new swimsuit. How does it look?” 

Jongwoo turned around and dropped the sun screen in his hand. Jieun was wearing a small, vibrant red bikini that left little to the imagination—her breasts spilling out from the sides and her ass round and very exposed. Jongwoo felt his face heat. “J—Jieun?”

“Yes?” She asked, feigning innocence.

”You…um…You look amazing. Are you sure you don’t want to wear something less…sexy?”

She smirked. ”Don’t worry, Oppa, I’ll wear a shirt the whole time. This bikini is for you take off later.”

Jongwoo short-circuited. He couldn’t help it, his girlfriend was hot. 

Jieun laughed at whatever expression he was making and kissed him on the cheek. “Want to help me put on sunscreen?”

Jongwoo nodded.

Jieun picked up the sunscreen and handed it to him. He helped rub sunscreen all over her body, feeling strangely nervous and shy as he touched her. Maybe it’s because we’ve been keeping things PG lately but this feels…hot and nerve wracking at the same time.

She grabbed his hand, trailing it down from her hip to the back of her thigh. “Should probably put some here in case my shirt hikes up.”

“Y-yeah, good idea.” Jongwoo cringed at his own awkwardness. What’s wrong with me? She’s my girlfriend for gods sake and I’m acting like I’ve never touched her before. He cleared his throat and focused on applying the sunscreen, still feeling hot and bothered but managing it better as he went along. 

“Should I help you, Oppa?” She asked once he was done, reaching for the bottle. 

Jongwoo pulled the bottle away. He was afraid they’d never make it to the pool if she touched him and he was more or less avoiding having sex with her. Mostly because only having sex was one of their problems, and partly because of Moon Jo. 

“I got it. You can just finish getting ready.” 

“What about your back?” 

“I think I’ll just wear a shirt today.” 

“Okay, but make sure to take the sunscreen just in case you change your mind.” She said with an amused smile.

Jongwoo nodded. “Sure. Do you want me to pack any snacks for later?”

”Yes, please.” She said brightly.

“Okay.” 

Jongwoo put the sunscreen in Jieun’s tote bag, pulled on an old tshirt and went to prepare the snacks. It took them about ten minutes to make it to the rooftop, and Jongwoo’s heart skipped the moment his gaze landed on Moon Jo reading in a lounge chair. 

“Mr. Seo’s here,” he commented. “Let’s go sit by him.” 

“Let’s sit closer to the bar,” Jieun suggested.

“But he’s my friend, isn’t it rude not to sit with him?” 

She seemed reluctant but nodded anyway and grabbed onto his arm. His arm was noticeably right in between her breasts and he tried not to let it drive him crazy. “Okay. Let’s see if he even wants us first.” 

Jongwoo led the way over to Moon Jo. “Hyung, do you mind if we sit by you?”

Moon Jo looked up from his book, seemingly thrown off by Jongwoo calling for him like that. “Not at all.” He offered a polite smile. 

Jongwoo set their stuff on the end of the chair to the right of Moon Jo, expecting Jieun to take the one next to him, but after Jongwoo sat down, she sat in between his legs. He blinked in surprise, but didn’t say anything as she handed him a book. They still had about fifteen minutes before their sunscreen set in so while he read, she watched videos on her phone, settling comfortably against his chest after putting headphones in.

She’s being so affectionate today. Like she’s trying to drive me crazy…

He couldn’t help his smile. She’s trying to seduce me.

His smiled died when he caught Moon Jo’s glare. Moon Jo looked away first.

I shouldn’t look so happy about it in front of him. 

“Hyung,” he called. 

Moon Jo didn’t look at him.

Jongwoo listened for Jieun’s headphones and heard a K-pop song blaring through them. “Jagiya,” he called a bit louder. 

Moon Jo’s gaze cut to him, cold and unhappy. 

“What are you reading?” Jongwoo asked. 

”I’m rereading the High Window.” He looked down at his book. 

“Care to tell me your thoughts?” Jongwoo prodded. 

“I don’t think you’d like to know what I’m thinking right now.” Moon Jo said quietly. 

”I meant about the book…” 

Moon Jo sighed but reluctantly started talking about the part of the book he was at. Jongwoo encouraged him to keep speaking until he wasn’t talking like every word was dragged out of him, and they had a nice discussion. After a while, Jieun was ready to swim and she dragged Jongwoo to the pool.

The two of them floated in the deep end and talked about whatever came to mind. It was nice and pleasant and with the type of ease that reminded Jongwoo how much he liked being around her. He was having more days like that. He couldn’t tell if it was a good or bad thing because either way he felt guilty towards someone. 

After a while, Jieun pulled him towards the steps of the pool, getting him to sit down before she sat on his lap. He wrapped his arms around her and rested his chin on her shoulder. 

He smelled something bitter but couldn’t tell what the source of it was. 

“You almost ready to go?” Jongwoo asked.

“Almost.”

”Want to get food from the bar? The burgers here are really good.”

”No, I want something else.”

”Do you want to order something?”

Jieun hummed thoughtfully before turning in his arms and kissing him passionately. His mouth opened in surprise and she took that as an opportunity to slip her tongue in. He glanced at Moon Jo who was watching from his chair.

She grabbed his hand and slipped it under her shirt, he stroked her belly and trailed his hand up her chest but felt too hesitant to touch it. He trailed his hand down to her thighs instead and stroked them gently. Not only were they in public but Moon Jo wouldn’t look away from him and he couldn’t seem to look away either. 

Jongwoo felt slick slip from his hole as Jieun sucked on his tongue and he immediately flushed with embarrassment. He closed his eyes and focused on Jieun, but all he could feel was Moon Jo still watching him. More slick gathered at his hole. God, why is him watching me kiss Jieun so mortifying yet so hot?

Jieun pulled away, dragging Jongwoo’s bottom lip with her teeth then smiling at him. “Let’s get out of here, huh?” 

Jongwoo nodded, casting an awkward glance in Moon Jo’s direction. He was glaring from his chair, only looking away when they got out of the pool. They quickly gathered their things and left with a quick goodbye to Moon Jo. 

Once they were alone in the elevator, Jongwoo couldn’t stop staring at Jieun as she pulled off her towel to adjust it—her white over shirt clinging to her body, her small waist prominent, her breasts practically visible except for her where her bikini top covered her, her ass dangerously close to hanging out. He hugged her from behind and pressed his hard dick against her ass. It’d be so easy to just slip it in…when we get back to our apartment I could lay her on the couch and rip off her bottoms or just push them aside and…

Jongwoo sighed against her.

She pressed back against him. “You’re so hard, Oppa.” She sounded amused. 

“How could I not be when you’re like this?”

”Like what?” She asked coyly. 

“Seductive.”

She smiled and ground her hips against him, making him gasp and squeeze her tightly. 

Once they were in the apartment, Jieun led him to the bedroom, stripping off her shirt before getting into bed. She sat in the middle of the bed and gestured for Jongwoo to join her. He crawled between her legs and she pulled him into a kiss. 

“Touch me, Oppa,” she said between kisses. 

Jongwoo hummed and put his hand over her right breast, squeezing it through her bikini top. She felt so soft and full in his hand. He slipped his thumb under the fabric and rubbed her areola, feeling her nipple slowly harden against the side of his thumb. He slipped a second finger in and pinched her nipple, pulling a little then letting go and squeezing her breast.

Jieun sighed softly against his mouth then said, “Untie my top.”

Jongwoo hummed, reaching behind her to undo her bikini top, feeling a thrill shoot through him as he pulled off the thin fabric and exposed her perky breasts. Something felt off as he stared at them, but he wasn’t sure what it was. 

“Use your mouth, Oppa.”

Jongwoo hummed and sucked her tit into his mouth, teasing her nipple until it hardened then he suckled on it lightly. She sighed softly in response. He pressed his fingers against her cunt through her bikini bottom and started rubbing there, slowly feeling her grow wet. He hummed and kissed her breast, leaving a trail of kisses to her left tit, sucking it into his mouth harshly.

She thrust against his fingers, silently asking for more, so he slipped his fingers under the thin red fabric and teased her with the tips off his fingers, spreading her open and slipping in the tip of his middle finger. She stroked the back of his head encouragingly. He stroked the tip of his middle finger vertically in her cunt to frustrate her, repeating the motion several times before she complained. 

”Oppa.”

Jongwoo smirked and slipped in two fingers, pressing his thumb against her clit. He massaged her clit until her cock extended from her body then he fingered her properly, feeling her loosen and grow very wet, especially when his teeth grazed her nipple. 

As he untied the strings of her bikini bottoms, he noticed a bitter scent that only grew stronger as he pulled them off. He pulled his mouth from her breast and kissed up to her neck and he almost cringed at the scent of her pheromones—bitter and a little sour. The way most Alphas smelled to him. And he realized then that he was no longer wet or hard. 

What’s going on? And why does her scent smell so off?

But Jongwoo pressed on, sucking harder, teasing her with his tongue on her right tit until he felt her cock bumping into his stomach. He released her breast from his mouth and kissed down her stomach and thigh before repositioning himself between her legs. 

Jongwoo spread the folds of her pussy and licked it in one broad stroke before slowly sinking his tongue inside. He ignored the sudden aversion to her taste, thinking that if he could just get her off, he could get in the mood again. But even as he licked and sucked at her greedily, forced his tongue so deep he could barely breathe against her skin, he still felt this overwhelming desire to cringe away. 

What’s happening to me? Why…why can’t I get hard? 

Jongwoo wrapped his hands around her cock and jerked her off, keeping his mouth on her soaked pussy. Her thighs clenched around his head and he hummed in approval as she started grinding down on his face. Still, he failed to get hard or wet. Even when she clenched around his tongue and arched off the bed with an obscene scream, all he could focus on was that sour, bitter scent. 

Desperate for her not to notice, he kept eating her out, and moved his hands to her tits, squeezing but not too rough, while pinching and teasing her nipples. She whined and ground her hips against his face, her hot cum dripping onto his face, adding to the warm wet of her pussy all over his mouth and cheeks. 

She came again after just two minutes, screaming his name like it was the only word she knew. 

And still, he wasn’t hard. He felt like crying. What’s going on?

He kept going, lapping up every drop of her with broad licks that made her push into his face and clench her thighs like a vice around his head. She whined but wouldn’t stop swirling her hips and chasing his tongue with her cunt, giving him better access so that he licked every inch and every fold of her. She came hard the second he pinched the tip of her cock with a silent scream, her body seizing and lifting off the bed. Jongwoo remained trapped between her thighs.

I’m still not…What am I going to do?

Jongwoo lazily licked her clean until she was able to unclench her thighs. When he got a good look at her he noticed that her knot had swelled, cum leaking down her cock in thick stripes. 

Jieun waved for him to come closer, looking dazed. He crawled up her body to hover over her.

What am I gonna say? 

She touched his face gently, taking a moment to catch her breath before reaching down to touch his flaccid cock, a confused frown on her face. “Oppa?”

Jongwoo shifted awkwardly. “I’m not feeling well.”

She touched his hole next and her face turned red before his eyes. “You’re not wet…You’re always wet for me.”

“I’m just not in the mood today I guess.”

“You made me cum like that, but you’re not in the mood?” She sniffed, tears in her eyes. “Are you not attracted to me anymore?”

“That’s not it, Jieun, I—I’m just not feeling well.” 

She covered her face with her arms.

”Jieun?”

“Do you…do you not like me anymore?” Her voice cracked and Jongwoo’s heart broke in his chest.

”Of course I still like you, Jieun, I’m just really not feeling well today.” He rubbed her thigh reassuringly. “If I felt better I would’ve come just from eating you out.”

No response, just another sniff.

How the hell am gonna fix this?

”Jieun, I’m sorry,” he apologized. “I should’ve told you earlier but I just wanted to make you feel good first.”

She sniffed and sighed. “Oppa…Can…can you give me some time alone, please?” Jieun asked, voice strained. 

“Yeah…Okay.” Jongwoo awkwardly got off the bed, gathered whatever clothes he could reach, and went to the bathroom to clean up, her cum making his face cold now.

After cleaning up, Jongwoo started on dinner and heard Jieun get in the shower. And then when they were finally in the same room, the tension was suffocating. They quietly ate at the island, putting on a random movie on Jongwoo’s phone for background noise. Once she was done eating, Jieun quietly told him she was going to bed early and he stayed up to write in the living room. 

Jongwoo felt an unrelenting pressure on his skin and couldn’t focus or settle comfortably the rest of the night, eventually giving up and crawling into bed next to a sleeping Jieun. I feel so bad for her. She tried to seduce me and I embarrassed her by not being into it too…how can I make it up to her? Or should I just let it slide for now—until she isn’t so humiliated?

When Jongwoo woke up, he found a note on Jieun’s pillow informing him she’d been called in for emergency surgery and he sighed heavily. I wonder if she really got called in or if I just bruised her ego and she’s too embarrassed to see me today…or both. 

Jongwoo stared up at the ceiling as if the answer would magically appear there but the only guess he had was that his claiming bites on Moon Jo were starting to affect him. I don’t know how to fix this and I feel bad for Jieun. Yesterday was humiliating for both of us and it’s all my fault. 

Jongwoo sighed and stretched before he got out of bed. After showering, Jongwoo went over to Moon Jo’s apartment to see what he was up to. He found Moon Jo reading a book in his living room. He was wearing glasses, a white shirt, dark blue dress pants and black dress socks, a dark blue jacket next to him on the back of the couch. Jongwoo took out his phone and took a picture.

”Admiring the view, Jagi?” Moon Jo guessed, not looking away from his book. 

“Am I not allowed?” Jongwoo questioned, pocketing his phone.

Moon Jo looked up at him. “You are. Just as you did yesterday with your tongue in her mouth.” 

Jongwoo sighed and walked over to him. “I’m sorry. She’s usually not into PDA, I don’t know what’s gotten into her.”

”Perhaps she doesn’t like how close we are.”

“Maybe, but she’s never seen you as a threat before.”

”She could believe that I’m the reason you realized just how unhappy you were,” Moon Jo suggested. 

Jongwoo hummed and straddled Moon Jo’s thighs. He leaned in to smell him and sighed at the pleasant scent, he nuzzled against him and inhaled deeply. It has to be the claiming bites, right? He smells even better than normal to me.

He grabbed Moon Jo’s hand and placed it on his cock, expecting him to do as instructed, but he didn’t. He moved his hand away. 

"I can't right now, Jagi. I've got to attend the final inspection of my clinic."

Jongwoo pouted, hoping to convince him to stay so he could see if his sexual dysfunction only applied to Jieun. 

Moon Jo sighed.  "Ah, don't look at me like that.  It's not fair."

“Can’t I at least suck you off? You know you won’t last long anyway.”

Moon Jo huffed and manhandled Jongwoo onto the couch before standing up and saying. ”I don’t want to get my clothes dirty.”

Jongwoo sighed. “Alright.”

Moon Jo grabbed Jongwoo by the chin. “Later, okay? Your Hyung will do anything you want.”

“Doesn’t your Hyung treat you well?”

Jongwoo ignored the memory that flared in his mind and laughed, ignoring the nerves in his stomach flaring too. “Did you like it when I called you that?”

”Not particularly. I’m not interested in being your brother.”

”You don’t want to be my only Hyung?” Jongwoo teased. 

”I prefer being your only Jagiya.”

“You are.” 

“But I’m not, am I?” A sadness crept into his expression and Jongwoo felt guilt crash through him.

 I’m just letting them both down, aren’t I?

“Jagi…”

”It’s fine. Text me if you’re free for dinner later,” Moon Jo said, grabbing his phone and making a quick exit. 

Jongwoo stared after him. Things are just getting harder for all of us huh? I might need to rethink my time frame on Jieun’s last chance and just make a decision.

+++++

Jongwoo had stayed in Moon Jo’s apartment while he was gone, writing on his iPad while one of Moon Jo’s classical records played in the background. The music made it easier to concentrate, and the only time he lost focus was when he heard his phone buzz twice in rapid succession. 

Jongwoo checked his messages and frowned when he opened them. Moon Jo had sent him a picture of Jieun sitting across from Jaeho at a café. 

What is she doing with him?

Jongwoo immediately called Jieun. It rang twice before it went to voicemail. Jongwoo frowned and called her again, but it went straight to voicemail. 

Jongwoo huffed and texted her.  | Where are you, Baby? | 

Then he texted Moon Jo. | What Café are they at? | 

Moon Jo sent him a pin and a message. 

| They just ordered their coffee. | 

Jongwoo stared at the message for a moment. Why would Jieun be meeting with him? She said she was going to meet Hana after work...

Another message popped up from Moon Jo. | I'm going to say hi. |

Jongwoo’s eyes widened. | Don't, Jagi. |

No response. 

Jongwoo called him.

"Mr. Seo, what brings you here?" He heard when the call went through. 

Jongwoo muted himself and put the phone on speaker. 

“I was running errands nearby,” Moon Jo answered. “What brings you two here?”

“I had a meeting and happened to run into Jieun,” Jaeho answered.

”What a coincidence.” 

“I was about to leave actually,” Jaeho said. “But I wanted to apologize for the way I behaved that day we met.”

”I don’t believe it’s me you owe an apology to,” Moon Jo said coldly.

”Right…Anyway, I should get back to the office. Enjoy your evening,” Jaeho said. 

The line went quiet for a few seconds then he heard Moon Jo say, "Miss Min, I don’t want to overstep, but I don't think you can trust Mr. Shin."

"What do you mean?” 

"I don't know if Jongwoo told you, but Mr. Shin came by and tried to trigger his heat.”

"He mentioned that but I really don't think—"

"Then you're wrong," Moon Jo said bluntly. 

"What?"

"You seem comfortable speaking on something you weren't around for."

Jongwoo tensed.  "Ah, that crazy bastard. What's he doing?"

"I just don't think Jaeho would do something like that."

"Why not? He already raped Jongwoo once, why wouldn’t he do it again?”

Jongwoo flinched at that word and shook his head, physically rejecting it. That’s not…It was just bad timing, it wasn’t that. You can’t call it that!

Jaeho’s smug face above him flashed in his mind and he dug his nails into his palms and forced himself to focus on Jieun’s response.

”That was an unfortunate mistake and he already apologized for it.”

”Apologized to who? You? Is it even yours to accept?”

Jongwoo blinked as it occurred to him that Jaeho had never apologized to him for anything he’d done…ever.

”You’re…right, Mr. Seo,” Jieun said. “It’s not my apology to accept. But Jongwoo won’t see him so he hasn’t had a chance to give one.”

“Why should he see him? And why are you even meeting with him like this? Aren’t you trying to repair your relationship with Jongwoo? Do you really think he’d be okay if he knew you were here?” 

Jieun was quiet for a moment, then she sniffed. “No. But I came to tell Jaeho that Jongwoo wasn’t comfortable around him anymore. That’s really all, Mr. Seo. I was just trying to make sure he stayed away.” 

“And Jongwoo knows that you’re here?“ 

“…No, but I’ll tell him when I get home, I swear.” 

“You better as I have no intention of keeping anything from Jongwoo.” 

Jieun was quiet for a beat then said, “You seem very close to my boyfriend, Mr. Seo.”

Jongwoo tensed.

“Jongwoo is a dear friend.”

”Just a friend though right?”

Jongwoo frowned. Why would she ask that? Are we being too obvious?

”Yes. A friend who’s been helping me through a difficult time and despite the damage afflicted upon him.” 

Jongwoo furrowed his brow. What’s he talking about?

”What do you mean?” Jieun asked. 

Moon Jo sighed heavily. “I wasn’t sure if you knew, but Mr. Yoo…the one who broke into your apartment was my partner.”

”Partner? You were dating him?”

”Yes. And I knew about his past but he swore he’d changed." Moon Jo said.  "But I was deceived and when I tried making a new friend it only made him angry. Jongwoo told me not to blame myself but I can’t help but feel like it was my fault. Perhaps I’ve been a little overeager to make things up to him and it’s come across as interest to you, but it’s merely gratitude.” 

Jieun was slow to respond. “I see…”

”You don’t believe me?”

”I’m not sure, Mr. Seo. Sometimes people will go too far to show their gratitude.” 

“If you’re this worried about me, why not claim Jongwoo like he’s been asking you to?”

”I can’t.”

”Because you let your father run your life? Is money really that important to you? More important than Jongwoo?”

“Excuse me? Who are you to judge me, Mr. Seo?”

”I’m not judging, I’m simply asking. You cling to excuses to not claim a willing partner then leave him unprotected during his heat and wonder why he might feel attached to someone that makes him feel safe.” 

Jieun huffed. “Our relationship is none of your business, Mr. Seo.” 

“It’s not. But if you want to question my intentions with Jongwoo, I can’t help but question yours too.”

“My intentions? Really? If Jongwoo hadn’t—“ Jieun cut off abruptly.

Jongwoo’s heart skipped. Was she about to tell him…No. Right?

”Hadn't what?” Moon Jo questioned.

”…I should get back home to Jongwoo.” She said, avoiding his question. 

“You should.”

”Goodbye, Mr. Seo.” Jieun said. 

“Goodbye, Miss Min.”

There was a beat of silence then Moon Jo said, “Jagi?”

Jongwoo unmuted the phone. “What the hell was that huh? Who ask you to butt in?”

”I was simply sticking up for you, Jagi.”

Jongwoo huffed. “Provoking my girlfriend is sticking up for me?”

”She started it.”

Jongwoo cursed in disbelief. “Are you fucking twelve? And no, she didn’t, you did!” 

“…Well, did I say anything wrong?”

Jongwoo rubbed his temples and sighed heavily. “…I just don’t like how you speak to her.”

”Then we have that in common.” 

Ah, he’s killing me…

”Look, I appreciate you trying to stand up for me, but let me deal with Jieun, okay?”

“Of course, Jagi. But does that mean you’ll be staying with her tonight?”

He softened at the disappointment in his tone. ”…I’m sorry.” 

Moon Jo sighed. “You owe me a proper date—just the two of us.”

“Dinner at a restaurant of your choice tomorrow?” Jongwoo suggested. 

“I’ll let you know where I want to go later.”

”Okay. Bye. Love you.” Jongwoo hung up then froze in place when he realized what he’d said. Oh my god. That’s the first time I’ve said that to him and it was a complete accident.

*****

“Okay. Bye. Love you.” 

Moon Jo’s stomach fluttered and he couldn’t seem to move, keeping the phone pressed to his ear as a smile slipped out. 

“Love you.” 

Moon Jo’s smile grew and he pocketed his phone.

”Love you.” 

Moon Jo pulled out a burner phone and sent Jaeho’s biggest investor a financial report—highlighting inconsistencies, as well as a side by side comparison of Jaeho’s bank statements. 

“Love you.”

Moon Jo sighed happily and pocketed the phone. He loves me. 

He pulled Jieun’s phone from his pocket when he felt it buzz and saw an unsurprising message from Jaeho.

|Are you still coming

over babygirl? Do you

think that guy will tattle to

Jongwoo? | 

Moon Jo rolled his eyes and set the phone on the table in front of him in disgust. I despise them more everyday. 

“There it is.”

He looked up and saw Jieun rushing over. She grabbed her phone and bowed awkwardly before leaving. Moon Jo sighed. He’d intended to go through it since she’d left it so carelessly but his timing was off—he hadn’t expected Jieun to notice so quickly. 

*****

”Don’t say it,” Jongwoo said the second they saw each other the next morning. 

“Say what?” Moon Jo asked, feigning ignorance.

Jongwoo rolled his eyes and sat at the dining table. Moon Jo brought over the last of their breakfast and stole a kiss to Jongwoo’s cheek before whispering in his ear, “I love you, Jagiya.”

He lingered next to Jongwoo and saw his neck flush. He kissed him again, letting his lips linger against his cheek until Jongwoo finally turned and kissed him on the mouth.

***** 

More time seemed to pass in a blink of an eye, days feeling shorter, and Moon Jo found his return to work irritating. All day he could only think about Jongwoo all alone is his apartment, and he found himself checking the cameras he’d reinstalled after the police swept Jongwoo’s apartment every chance he got.

Miss Min had suddenly started working more again and though it wasn’t quite as bad before, Jongwoo was still spending more time with Moon Jo than her. 

Jongwoo mostly spent his days writing on his laptop or iPad—noticeably only drinking coffee instead of eating—or napping. Moon Jo kept ordering him lunch to make sure he ate then waited for his FaceTime so they could eat together. He could tell Jongwoo was sad about Miss Min breaking her promise but it caused him to lean on Moon Jo even more so he had no complaints. 

“Did you find yourself a mate while we were gone, Dr. Seo?” His dental assistant, Mirae asked.

He smiled. “I did.” 

“Yeah?” She lit up excitedly. “Can I see?”

Moon Jo grabbed his phone and unlocked it to show her the Home Screen. It was the picture Jongwoo had taken to make Jieun jealous at the café. 

“Wow, he’s pretty and unique looking—like an idol or actor,” she commented. “You’ve got good taste, Dr. Seo.”

Moon Jo filled with pride. “Yes, I’m quite fortunate.”

”How did you two meet?”

”He’s my neighbor. We met in the elevator.”

She opened her mouth in shock. “Neighbor? Ah, handsome men like you really have all the luck.”

Moon Jo chuckled. “I guess so.”

She sighed and shook her head. “I suppose I’ll just have to live vicariously through you. We have time before your next appointment so tell me everything.”

It was easy to talk about their love story—minus the cheating and murder of course—with Mirae who ate up every word. She was the closest thing he had to a friend, mostly due to her working for him for six years. It wasn’t like they really kept contact outside of work, but she was familiar to him in a way most people weren’t. 

Mirae was genuinely so happy for him and it lifted his mood even higher so he bought her her favorite coffee during their downtime. She thanked him and told him that she was rooting for his relationship. A very pleasant day for him socially.

As soon as his work day ended, he rushed straight home. He showered and changed before going to Jongwoo’s apartment. Jongwoo was fast asleep on the couch when he walked in so he went straight to the kitchen to make dinner.

He worked as quietly as possible but Jongwoo woke up eventually because of the smell. He greeted Moon Jo with a wave as he walked by to go the restroom, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes. 

Moon Jo smiled to himself, finding Jongwoo cute. 

Once dinner was finished cooking, Moon Jo ended up eating something other than the stir fry he'd made. It seemed that even when Jongwoo wasn't on his heat, he was still insatiable when it came it to sex. And so there Moon Jo sat on a stool at the island with Jongwoo spread out before him, his tongue buried in his ass as he ate him out. 

Moon Jo spread his legs wider then ducked his head and lifted Jongwoo slightly off the counter before licking a stripe against his rim, Jongwoo twitching at the contact. Moon Jo licked at his rim in broad strokes of his tongue until he tasted Jongwoo’s slick, then he licked his way inside of him and pressed his mouth flush with his hole. He sucked harshly. 

Jongwoo moaned and covered his eyes with his arm like he couldn’t handle looking at Moon Jo. Moon Jo filled with a sense of pride and kept eating him out, pulling Jongwoo flush against his face every time he wriggled too far. It wasn’t as easy to make Jongwoo come when he wasn’t in heat and he wasn’t as wet either but Moon Jo enjoyed getting to lap up more slick—this too was another sin Jongwoo stained him with: Greed. 

Moon Jo slipped in two fingers alongside his tongue and felt around inside until he felt Jongwoo jolt and spurt slick down his throat. He smirked and massaged that special little place, feeling more slick fill his mouth the longer he did. This taste should belong only to me. I’m the one wholly devoted to Jongwoo, this privilege belongs to me, not that woman!

Jongwoo’s legs suddenly wrapped around Moon Jo’s head and forced his tongue in even deeper, making it hard to breathe. But Moon Jo kept licking and sucking and fingering instead of pulling away for air, knowing he could still move if he needed to. His dedication paid off after a couple minutes and Jongwoo came, his thighs clenching tightly around Moon Jo’s head and making it impossible to move, a wave of slick gushing into his mouth and making a mess of his face. 

Jongwoo was slow to let him go and Moon Jo felt dizzy when he was finally able to breathe properly. Jongwoo reached down and stroked his hair but he was too blissed out to move or speak. Moon Jo felt the same despite not coming. 

Moon Jo caught his breath first and started licking Jongwoo clean, cum and slick mixing together on his tongue. After a moment, Jongwoo sat up and grabbed Moon Jo’s head, gaze intense and full of heat. “Stand up straight.”

Moon Jo nodded at the command and stood up, Jongwoo’s deft hands making quick work of his pants and underwear. Moon Jo kicked them off while Jongwoo climbed off the island just to bend over it. Moon Jo found it hard to breathe. Jongwoo was always so forward when it came to sex and it drove him absolutely crazy. He stepped forward and felt Jongwoo purposely grind against his crotch and he couldn’t resist grinding back.

“Fuck, you’re so fucking hard,” Jongwoo moaned. 

Moon Jo thrust against him one more time before he held himself steady and pushed into Jongwoo’s tight, wet hole, feeling Jongwoo stretch and swallow him until he was buried inside. He groaned softly and rubbed Jongwoo’s lower back.

Jongwoo sighed in pleasure and rocked back and forth until Moon Jo started fucking him properly—hard and fast but with a rhythm that made Jongwoo groan—the sound drawn out and hitching with each thrust. Jongwoo reached back for him with one hand while he used the other one to keep his face off the countertop. Moon Jo grabbed his hand and held onto his hip tightly with the other. 

Moon Jo closed his eyes and threw his head back. It was a little embarrassing how quickly he always came and he wanted to try to last longer—one disadvantage he’d noted about never having penetrative sex before Jongwoo. But his other senses seemed to get stronger—he was acutely aware of Jongwoo’s pheromones flooding the room, of his slick making each thrust smoother, allowing him in deeper—he could still taste Jongwoo on his tongue. He bit his bottom lip and opened his eyes. 

I even masturbated earlier to help but nothing can compare to my Jagi. My Omega.

Moon Jo’s teeth sharpened and his mouth watered in response to his own thoughts but he kept his mouth shut tight and redirected that primal urge into pounding harshly into Jongwoo. Biting the inside of his cheek when necessary to keep himself in check. 

Jongwoo moaned and squeezed his hand tightly but didn’t express any discomfort so Moon Jo kept going, his heart beating so fast it made him a little dizzy. But it all felt so achingly good—even the heat in his skin felt like the warmth of paradise reaching him.

Unfortunately, he still came quicker than he wanted and had to pull out before his knot locked them together, but he’d managed to make Jongwoo cum before he did—tight, wet heat clenching around him and swallowing him greedily, milking his cum directly inside like it needed it for sustenance. 

Jongwoo laid limp on the counter while Moon Jo sunk to the floor, panting harshly. He couldn’t wait for the day he could fuck Jongwoo recklessly and claim him over and over again—until his love could be felt through his vampiric bite and the offering of blood and flesh tied them together forever. 

Jongwoo came to his senses first, standing up on shaky legs, and turning to Moon Jo. He grabbed Moon Jo by the jaw and kissed him roughly, then he pulled away with a sigh. “You’re greedy today, aren’t you, Jagi?”

“Can’t help it. Your taste is divine.”

Jongwoo hummed and helped him to his feet. He dragged Moon Jo to the bathroom and they showered together. Jongwoo let Moon Jo borrow a change of underwear and an old baggy sweatshirt he had but he had to put on the same pants since their heights were too different. Once they were changed, they went to the living room to watch a movie and eat dinner.

They got about halfway through the movie before Jongwoo fell asleep with his head against the couch. Then, when the movie was almost over, he heard a noise at the front door.

Moon Jo heard someone typing in the code to the door and gently guided Jongwoo’s head onto his shoulder before resting his head against Jongwoo’s and closing his eyes. Then he waited, listening with bated breath as Miss Min walked into the apartment.

“Oppa?” She called.

Ten seconds later he heard her walk into the room and stop. “Oppa? Mr. Seo?” 

He didn’t react. 

Miss Min walked closer then stopped in her tracks behind them. “You’ve gotta be kidding me,” she muttered. She shook Jongwoo awake by his shoulders, and Moon Jo opened his eyes as well. 

“So after all that talk about improving our relationship, I come home to find you sleeping on another Alpha’s shoulder? Are you kidding me?”

“What? Jieun when did you—“

”Why is he wearing your sweatshirt?”

Moon Jo repressed his smirk at the panic in Jongwoo’s expression. How will you get out of this, Jagi? Even if she buys whatever excuse you use today, it’s just mounting evidence that there’s something between us. 

“He spilled soy sauce on his shirt so I lent it to him.” 

She still looked suspicious. 

“Look, we were watching a movie and I guess we fell asleep,” Jongwoo said.

She narrowed her eyes. “You just fell asleep next to the man you said you might—“ She cut off abruptly and cleared her throat. 

“Might what?” Moon Jo prompted, feigning ignorance. 

She didn’t respond to his question. “Mr. Seo, I’m sorry, but could you please leave?”

“Of course,” He said politely. He stood quickly. “It really was just a simple accident, Miss Min, but I apologize for making you uncomfortable.”

”…Thank you, Mr. Seo.” Even though the words were pleasant her tone was not. 

Moon Jo looked down at Jongwoo who mouthed an apology at him. He offered a reassuring smile as he left.  He hurried to his apartment and into his second room. He woke up his computer and checked his cameras to watch them fight.

”I don’t understand why you’re so angry,” Jongwoo said. “Friends fall asleep together sometimes, it’s not a big deal.”

”It is a big deal when you said that you might fuck him during your heat!” 

“Are you kidding me? You keep changing your mind on him being harmless or being just another Alpha on the street trying to fuck me! You’re fine with him being my friend one minute and then suddenly I’m a little Omega whore seducing him. What’s going on with you, huh?”

“I..I just don’t like the two of you hanging out!”

”All of a sudden?”

I heard cheater’s often project onto their partner. She must be feeling guilty that she’s not holding up her end either. 

“Yeah, all of a sudden!” She replied stubbornly.

Jongwoo scoffed. “Well if you don’t trust me just say that! Just say that you think I’m gonna fuck Mr. Seo while you’re gone at work all day! Accuse me properly so I can tell you how unreasonable you’re being. Do it! Say that you don’t trust me because of Jaeho!” 

Jieun flinched. 

Interesting. She’s been so calm every time he’s mentioned that Beta and what he did, so why flinch now? Maybe she never expected it to be used against her like this. 

Moon Jo chuckled. 

“O—Oppa…”

”That’s what this reaction is really about right?” Jongwoo challenged. “You pretend that it’s fine then get mad at me when it suits you. I’m sick of it! And yeah, I did say I might fuck Mr. Seo but I told you that because I was afraid I’d do something pathetic during my heat not because I actually wanted to fuck him!” 

“And I know coming home to us cuddled up on the couch together is bad but I’m not trying to step out on our relationship it’s just that—well during my heat, when you left me to fend for myself again, Mr. Seo bought me a better toy to help me through it instead of taking advantage of me and he cooked me meals too.”

”Since I moved in he’s checked in on me, taken care of me and spent time with me. So if I’m comfortable around him it’s because you haven’t been keeping your promises to me!” 

Jieun was stunned by his outburst, completely defenseless now.

Jagi turned that around beautifully.

“You promised me you’d do better but once again I’m still spending most days without you,” Jongwoo added, softer this time, but just as cutting.“I don’t want to lose you but do you even want to keep me anymore?” 

Jieun took a step forward but hesitated to get closer. “Baby, of course I want to keep you,” she said gently. “Oh my god, I—I’m being ridiculous aren’t I? Of course you’re not cheating on me with Mr. Seo.”

And just like that, he’s won. 

Moon Jo covered his mouth as he started laughing uncontrollably. He can’t tell when he’s being manipulated but he is good at doing it himself. Ah, Jagi, you’re perfect. 

“I’m really not,” Jongwoo blatantly lied. “And I don’t think it’s fair to hold my past with Jaeho over me when you still get coffee with him like nothing ever happened. Why am I the only one being punished?”

“I’m sorry, Oppa, I…it’s just that I’m feeling insecure after what happened that day we went swimming…I thought maybe you were really falling for Mr. Seo and your body was rejecting me because of it.” 

Jongwoo sighed softly. “Jieun, I really felt sick that day.” 

“…I really screwed things up by running away, huh, Oppa? I was just so embarrassed that day and I couldn’t seem to get over it.”

”I understand that. But I told you what I needed to fix our relationship and you just went back to your old ways because of one problem.”

Are they going to finally break up? Moon Jo thought excitedly. 

“Oppa…” Jieun said sadly. “Can’t you give me just a little more time?”

Why does she pretend to care so much about their relationship when she’s cheating on him? I understand that Jagi is conflicted about the life he wants, but what’s her excuse?

Jongwoo sighed. “I..I’m not sure it’ll make a difference.”

“Please, Oppa, just a little more time. Things were going well before that day right? I’ll stop running away now.”

”Jieun—“

”I love you, Jongwoo,” She interrupted. “I know I’m not perfect but you’re my first love, and I won’t let go of you without a fight. So just give me one more chance. One month, please…and if—if you still want to leave, I’ll accept it.”

How pathetic. 

Jongwoo hesitated. “Will you really try this time?”

Jieun nodded. “But I have a condition?”

”What condition?”

”Stop hanging out with Mr. Seo.”

“What?”

“I’m not comfortable with you being friends with someone who used to hit on you.”

Jongwoo furrowed his brow. “He doesn’t do that anymore.”

”It doesn’t matter. I don’t like the way you look at him.”

”How do I look at him?”

”…You light up whenever his attention is on you now. Before, you seemed half annoyed, but now you’re overeager and I have this sick feeling in my stomach that you might fall in love with him.” 

Jongwoo stared at her.

Whats your move, Jagiya?

“And whose fault would that be? Mine for being lonely or yours for making me that way?”

Jieun huffed. “Seriously? You’re not going to say I’m crazy or that it’s impossible just that it’s my fault?”

“I’m not. And I’m not going to stop being friends with Mr. Seo either so accept that or break up with me right now.”

Jieun went quiet for a moment. “No.”

”No?”

”I won’t break up with you,” She said firmly. 

”Jieun, what—“

“You’re mine. It’s my fault that you’ve forgotten that.” She stepped into his space. “And that Ahjussi might take care of you well, but does he actually know you? Does he know about Beomseok?”

”…Yes.”

”Really? He knows that you killed him? That that’s the real reason my father won’t let me claim you?”

Moon Jo frowned. What? 

“…Not exactly.”

”Not exactly? Then he doesn’t know that you’ve been in a mental rehabilitation facility before either?”

Jongwoo stepped back. “…No.”

”That’s what I thought. Maybe I don’t have to worry about him after all if you haven’t even told him that much…”

Jongwoo seemed to wither. 

Moon Jo felt his stomach twist uncomfortably. Jagi lied to me…

Jieun cupped his face with both hands. “I’m not saying this to be cruel, Baby, I just find it strange that you’re being so stubborn over someone you barely know and who barely knows you. I know you well and I love every part of you. Can you say the same about him?”

”He’s just a friend,” Jongwoo insisted. “He doesn’t have to know everything.”

But why didn’t you tell me? You know what I’m capable of so why hide?

“I guess that’s true, but even as a friend, how would he feel if he knew what you did? There’s a reason Chang Hyun’s your only friend, Oppa. You might have escaped conviction but whenever you’ve gotten close enough to finally share your secret, everyone’s run away. Except me. Except Chang Hyun whose testimony helped you get the incident sealed and buried.”

“My father has many reasons he doesn’t want us to be together and we always tell people about the lesser reasons, but we should at least be honest with each other, Oppa. You killed someone and went a little crazy, then you killed him a second time in your novel. The first victim of your Pianist.”

”That’s why it’s written so well. Because of your experience. What would Mr. Seo think if he knew that?” 

Moon Jo stared, half in shock, half in fascination, as Jongwoo hunched his shoulders and started whining softly—as if in pain. As if thinking about it hurt.

Jagi, you should know better by now that I would only love you more for what you’ve done. Why are you being like this?

“You’re my Omega, Jongwoo. And I’m not letting anyone else have you.” Jieun pulled the strap of Jongwoo’s tank top aside and licked at his scent gland. “Should I just claim you now like you’ve been asking? Go against my father and deal with the consequences? Huh? Should I?”

Jongwoo whined again.

”Should I just sink my teeth in or do you want me to knot you while I do it? We’ll see if that Ahjussi sticks around once I claim you. Once he’s disgusted by your scent and his touch makes me you feel ill.”

Jongwoo abruptly stepped back, shaking head as if he was shaking off the effects of her words. He still looked rattled. “What…what’s wrong with you today? You’re not acting normal.”

”You’re not either.”

Jongwoo studied her for a moment. “Jieun, what’s going on with you?”

”I just don’t want to lose you.”

“But the way you’re acting is…it doesn’t feel right. I don’t like it. I don’t want to be claimed like this—just because you’re jealous and desperate.” 

Jieun huffed, annoyed. “You get mad when I’m not jealous or possessive but when I finally act like it, it makes you uncomfortable?”

“You’re freaking me out.” 

Jieun took a step forward but Jongwoo stepped back. “Baby…”

”Why are you flooding the room with your pheromones? Are you trying to make me submit to you?” He asked in disbelief. 

Jieun stepped back. “What? No. I just…” She suddenly grabbed her head with both her hands. “I feel strange.”

”Strange how?”

”Like…like I can’t think straight.” 

Jongwoo suddenly stepped forward and grabbed her arm. “Who hurt you?”

Jieun sniffed. “Oppa…Oppa, I made a mistake.”

”What mistake?”

”I…I got bit by a Beta at work today. He kept begging me for drugs and he got mad that I kept denying him so he claimed me and said…” she sniffed. “Said, ‘Why don’t you see what it feels like to crave something the way I do, bitch. Then maybe you won’t be such a hardass.’”

”Oh, Baby…” Jongwoo pulled her into a hug. 

Jieun started crying, slowly getting louder until she was sobbing and apologizing to Jongwoo over and over again. And their fight came to an abrupt halt. 

Moon Jo kicked his desk and turned off his monitor. They didn’t break up. They were so close and yet…

Moon Jo leaned back in his chair. I think it’s time to take the next step.

He unlocked the bottom drawer of his desk and grabbed Ki Hyeok’s phone. He turned on the phone. It had 10% battery, but it didn’t matter as Moon Jo had already put what he needed on it, he just needed to send a quick message. He sent the clip he’d been sitting on, along with a message. 

| $10, 000 USD or I’ll show that Omega

whore what you did. |

Jongwoo stared at the claim on Jieun’s arm and felt sick to his stomach. It’d been a few days and Jieun was still acting strange. She said it felt like her skin was always stinging and that she constantly felt the urge to claim Jongwoo because his scent was more enticing than ever. Apparently it was common for Alphas to still crave Omegas even after a Beta claimed them—if it was one sided that is. 

But Jieun also craved the Beta who had bitten her. According to the doctor, her body just wanted her to claim her mate and wouldn’t settle until she did, no matter who it was. She couldn’t even go to work in her state. She was only somewhat normal when she took her prescription but even then it took a while before she stopped trying to talk Jongwoo into letting her claim him.

“We’ll go out to dinner after Jieun’s appointment and then she’ll come home with us for a little while,” Mrs. Min said. Thankfully, Mr. Min had stayed downstairs in the car. “We’ll be back by 11.”

”Okay. I’ll be here waiting,” Jongwoo said. “Let me know if you need anything.”

”We will dear,” Mrs. Min said.

Jieun stepped forward and kissed his cheek. “Love you, Baby.”

”You too,” he said, giving her a quick peck on the cheek. He watched them leave and sighed in relief as the door shut behind them, needing a break from Jieun. 

I need to spend time with Moon Jo. The past week has been hell. How can she be so unstable from a random bite? Usually it’s worse if it’s someone you have feelings for…

But I’ve bitten Moon Jo several times and he seems fine and he’s obsessed with me…I guess it just depends on the person?

I hope they can help her at the hospital.

Jongwoo sighed heavily. Unstable or not, she did have a point about what I told Moon Jo about Beomseok. It’s crazier to think he wouldn’t understand but…I spent a year coming to terms with what I did in that damn mental rehabilitation center. Accepting the fact that I liked it and had to pretend I didn’t if I didn’t want to stay locked up in there…still, I never meant to kill him. 

I’m not as fragile as I used to be but it’s not something I can talk about easily…Besides, Moon Jo knows most of it already, how I felt, he just doesn’t know Beomseok died on that shower floor.

But I don’t have to tell him yet. I can just enjoy him a little longer and then once I break up with Jieun, I can tell him everything. I doubt he’ll reject me but he might be upset that I didn’t admit it sooner…

It feels like all I do lately is lie or tell half truths. I don’t want to be this person anymore. All this lying and hiding behind excuses has to come to an end.

*****

Moon Jo sighed in pleasure as Jongwoo sucked his cock, two fingers in his ass that massaged his prostate insistently. He hadn’t been prepared for the little demon he had unlocked inside of Jongwoo when he first offered himself this way, but he didn’t mind. He enjoyed the stimulation and how Jongwoo took him to new levels of pleasure he’d never experienced before. 

He hadn’t brought up Jongwoo’s fight with Jieun that day and neither had Jongwoo. He’d tried to dig into Jongwoo’s past but it seemed the military had covered everything up—all that came up when he searched for Kim Beomseok was a vague obituary that implied his death was accidental. Moon Jo had a guess as to why it was covered up—public image.

The disgrace of an Omega learning how to kill an Alpha would be insurmountable, and if Jongwoo came forward about the prior harassment, it would look like negligence on their part and bring shame to the family and the military. Everyone involved would seem incompetent or get their name dragged through the mud, though normally, Jongwoo would be the target for most of it. Of course, Moon Jo didn’t know anything for sure but the details weren’t important, only that Jongwoo had lied to him. 

But he wasn’t supposed to know that so he simply had to deal with the hurt and confusion. Not that he particularly felt either of those things right now…

Jongwoo took his fingers out suddenly and applied lube to the toy Moon Jo had bought him. Moon Jo’s toes curled in anticipation. Jongwoo pressed the head in slowly, making Moon Jo feel every inch of the toy until it was buried inside of him. He sighed happily and waited to be knotted, but instead he heard a soft click and felt the toy vibrate.

He looked at Jongwoo curiously but he was staring down at the toy inside of him.

Jongwoo pressed another button on the remote and Moon Jo felt the head swirl around inside him and he moaned. Jongwoo upped the vibration then started slowly pulling the toy back until the head bullied his prostate and Moon Jo’s whole body jerked. It took him a moment to stop twitching and adjust to the feel of it, but once he did, he couldn’t stop moaning.

“Like that?” Jongwoo asked. 

Moon Jo hummed. 

Jongwoo kept the toy perfectly angled as he started sucking Moon Jo’s balls—Moon Jo whined and tried not to come, wanting this to last, but Jongwoo was too good with his mouth and he came hard all over his chest and stomach. He didn’t even have time to come down before Jongwoo repositioned the toy and knotted him with it. 

Moon Jo screamed—a sound he’d never heard himself make ripped right out of him. He shut his eyes and gripped the sheets desperately. He felt Jongwoo stroke his thigh. 

“It’s really not easy for you to take, is it?” 

Moon Jo shook his head, unable to speak.

”Should I retract the knot?”

Moon Jo shook his head. 

“You like it anyway?”

Moon Jo nodded. 

“Weirdo.” Jongwoo leaned over to kiss him and Moon Jo trapped his body in between his legs, forcing Jongwoo to press into the toy—pushing it in deeper as if it were an extension of himself. “Fuck. You really wish I had a knot, don’t you? If I’d been born an Alpha too would you have taken it? Would you have still been my submissive little Alpha who took my knot and wore my claiming bite with pride?” 

Moon Jo finally relaxed enough to speak. “Your Alpha, your Omega, Your Beta. Just as long as I was yours, Jagi.”

Jongwoo ground his hips and the toy pushed in just a little deeper, making Moon Jo’s thighs clench around his body and hold him there. Jongwoo grabbed the remote and turned the toy back on before he kissed Moon Jo and started jerking him off. Moon Jo quickly became overstimulated but he was too into it to ask Jongwoo to stop for even a second. 

After a couple minutes Moon Jo felt something unfamiliar squirt from his cock and looked down in confusion. He hadn’t come and the liquid was strangely thin and clear. “What is that?”

Jongwoo looked down too. “Whoa, you’re a squirter?”

Moon Jo blinked at him. Will my inexperience show if I ask what he means?

”It’s nothing to worry about, it just means you’re enjoying yourself,” Jongwoo said. “I’ll explain later.”

Moon Jo nodded and grabbed Jongwoo’s face to kiss him again. He felt Jongwoo’s hands come between them to fondle his pecs and play with his nipples—heat enveloping his skin and making his face hot.

Jongwoo suddenly left a claiming bite on his pec and Moon Jo came again in the thick white ropes all over them both. Jongwoo smirked. “So easy,” he sighed dreamily. “Do you want me to take the toy out before I ride you?”

Moon Jo barely managed to nod, feeling dazed.

Jongwoo smirked and kissed his cheek before he pressed the button on the toy and the pressure of the knot disappeared. 

Moon Jo sighed in relief as the toy was removed and watched Jongwoo set it aside before straddling his waist. Jongwoo leaned forward and sucked on Moon Jo’s pec, licking at the fresh claiming bite there and tracing the scar underneath with his tongue before latching onto his nipple. Moon Jo closed his eyes. 

He was still trying to come down from what they’d just done but he felt heat in his skin once again as Jongwoo sucked on his nipple, his devilish tongue licking it in broad strokes around the areola then teasing his nipple. He couldn’t resist stroking Jongwoo’s head approvingly, the feel of his soft hair grounding him just a little. 

It didn’t take long for Moon Jo to get hard again but Jongwoo didn’t immediately move away from his chest. Instead he sucked harder on Moon Jo’s pec, the sound of it obscene, then he finally gave Moon Jo’s other pec attention, sucking and licking while his spit became cold on the other pec—the sensation a little uncomfortable for Moon Jo, the air grating on his perky wet nipple, while the other one felt nice and hot in Jongwoo’s mouth. 

Moon Jo tugged slightly on Jongwoo’s hair. “You’ll make me too sensitive there.”

Jongwoo hummed and pulled off only to go suck on his other pec again. And then Moon Jo was faced with the same problem again. But Jongwoo alternated quicker this time, and the next, until Moon Jo forgot his complaint in the first place, until his cock was leaking and he was arching into Jongwoo’s mouth to force his pec in deeper. 

Jongwoo suddenly grabbed his cock and pressed it against his hole, sliding down on it at an angle so he could keep himself latched onto Moon Jo. Moon Jo whined softly as he was swallowed by Jongwoo and he noted that Jongwoo’s pheromones flooded the room at the sound. 

Jongwoo pulled off his chest. "I changed my mind, roll us over."

Moon Jo did as instructed and sighed happily as Jongwoo wrapped his legs around his waist, pulling him in deeper. Jongwoo wrapped his arms around Moon Jo’s neck and pressed their foreheads together.  Moon Jo moved slow and deep, Jongwoo sighing and kissing his cheek before nuzzling against it.

Moon Jo nuzzled back and started moving a bit faster, building his pace and thrusting harder. Jongwoo lifted himself up slightly, and then groaned as Moon Jo pressed more against his prostate. His breath puffed hotly against Moon Jo’s face and he shuddered.  

Heat enveloped them, their skin burning where they touched, but they endured it. Jongwoo’s slick eased each thrust and as it slipped from him, his pheromones grew stronger, his scent so heavy that Moon Jo started to lose focus. His thrusts became more wild and reckless and his head ended up buried in Jongwoo’s neck. 

He needed fresh air but he couldn’t get himself to move away. Moon Jo felt his mouth water and his teeth sharpen and he was overcome with the urge to claim Jongwoo. But this time, he found it difficult to resist. The pillow. I need to bite the pillow. 

But he didn’t want to bite the pillow and he found himself seconds away from tearing into Jongwoo’s flesh.

He’s mine. I won’t let anyone else have him. I must claim him. Right now. No more patience or consideration, I must take what’s rightfully mine.

Moon Jo’s teeth grazed Jongwoo’s skin and he felt him shudder at the contact. My Omega. Your life is mine. Only mine.

He licked at Jongwoo’s skin, preparing to claim him. 

”Jagi,” Jongwoo moaned softly. He grabbed Moon Jo’s face and pulled him close, kissing his jaw and all over his face before kissing his lips sweetly. “Moon Jo-yah.” 

The affectionate way Jongwoo called his name was a shock to his system—overpowering the primal urge in him to sink his teeth into Jongwoo’s flesh. He’d hate me if I claimed him now.

Moon Jo shook Jongwoo off and pulled out of him before scrambling out of bed and stumbling to the bathroom—fighting with himself, with his instincts that still urged him to claim his Omega and breed him until they both passed out. Jongwoo called after him but he ignored him and locked the door. 

What’s wrong with me? I almost…why was it so much harder to stay in control this time? 

“Jagi?” Jongwoo called through the door. “Are you alright?”

“I just need a moment,” Moon Jo said, his words slurred and barely comprehensible through his sharpened teeth and saliva filled mouth. He went over to the sink and grabbed onto the sides to keep himself upright. 

”Okay…unlock the door when you can."

Unlock the door and claim what is yours. 

Moon Jo shook his head, and clutched the sink tighter. He spent a few minutes just spitting, disgusted with himself. Just what the hell was that? I've never lost control of myself like that before, so why now? 

He couldn't seem to get his teeth to return to normal or to stop salivating and some baser urge in him still demanded that he be an Alpha and claim his Omega. Instead, he bit into his own shoulder—the pain shocking his body. Slowly, he felt his teeth return to normal and he spit his blood into the sink, panting harshly. He clung onto the sink and sunk to his knees, his head dropping in between his shoulders.

“Even if you do have a true mate, Dear, I fear what a monster like you will do to them. You’ll sink your horrid teeth into them and never let go and by the time they realize what you are it’ll be too late. You destroy everything you touch and reassemble it to your liking. I wonder, could anyone ever survive you, Dear?”

Moon Jo shook his head. Mrs. Eom’s words had stopped reaching him a long time ago but occasionally they rang in his head. Mother only said that to keep me in control when she noticed I was getting close to Ki Hyeok. I’ll prove her wrong and if we are reunited in hell, I will gloat and laugh in her face because I found my true mate while she never did.

By the time he fully regained control of himself, he felt exhausted and drained. He barely made it to the door to unlock and open it before he sunk down against the nearest wall.

Jongwoo walked in a few seconds later, fully clothed and smelling strangely neutral. "Jagi. Are you okay?

Moon Jo nodded. 

"What happened?" 

“I…almost claimed you. I could barely stop myself and I don’t know why.” 

Jongwoo crouched down next to him but he didn’t look angry or scared at Moon Jo’s admission. He sighed. “It’s probably my fault for claiming you so many times. It’s starting to mess with your head.”

Moon Jo lit with realization. Of course. That is why Ki Hyeok tried to claim me after all.

”I’m sorry,” Jongwoo apologized. “I’ve just been doing what I want instead of considering what effect it would have on you.”

”It was my choice too,” Moon Jo said. “I like when you claim me and I wasn’t worried about the consequences.”

”I shouldn’t claim you anymore."

Moon Jo wanted to protest but losing control would destroy all the trust he’s built with Jongwoo—would put him on the same level as Jaeho. As his father.  And he wouldn’t stand for it. He nodded. “That’s probably for the best, Jagi.” 

He felt Jongwoo’s hands on his shoulder. “You bit yourself…”

”I had no choice.”

Jongwoo hummed and leaned forward to lick at his new wound—the saliva would stimulate the wound into closing up quickly. 

Moon Jo groaned, salivating in response to Jongwoo licking him. “Jagi, that’s dangerous right now.”

”It’s the least I can do after causing this situation.” Jongwoo continued licking at his bite mark, and Moon Jo couldn’t help his loving stare as he watched Jongwoo’s tongue collect drops of blood without flinching. 

I don’t know how much longer I can hold back. I’ve put things into place but I’m growing impatient. Killing is so much simpler…but it’s not the right choice for now. It’ll ruin the final part of my plan if I do.

Once Jongwoo was done, he helped Moon Jo to his feet. “Why don’t you shower and calm down?” 

Moon Jo nodded. “My apologies for ruining the mood, Jagi.”

”You didn’t ruin anything,” Jongwoo assured him. “If anything, I pushed you too much. Just do what you need to feel better and I’ll wait for you in your room.”

“Okay.” 

Jongwoo let go of him and left the room. 

Moon Jo forced himself to get into the shower. He made the water as hot as he could stand and just stood in the hot spray of the shower. 

Moon Jo vigorously scrubbed his body and by the time he had washed his hair he felt much better—his head clear without Jongwoo’s scent flooding his senses and his mother’s voice echoing in his head. He returned to his room in just a towel.  

“You feel okay?” Jongwoo asked from where he was sitting on the bed. He was now wearing some of Moon Jo’s clothes, his body mostly hidden. 

“I’m in control again.”

”That’s a relief. I used a scent blocking spray just in case.”

”Thank you.”

“You don’t have to thank me, it’s just the safest thing to do.”

”Right…” Moon Jo felt a little awkward. “I’m going to get some water, would you like something?”

”A juice.”

“Let me get changed first.” 

Moon Jo quickly changed into sweatpants and a black tank top before going to the kitchen. He looked at the time on the microwave. Jieun was due to return home from her parents in a couple hours which meant Jongwoo would probably leave after Moon Jo fell asleep.

His jealousy flared once more and a petty idea sprung to mind. Moon Jo grabbed their drinks from the fridge then reached into the cabinet in front of him, grabbing the crushed up sleeping pills he kept on standby on the highest shelf.

Jongwoo was too short to reach it but even if he found them, it was easy enough to lie about them. 

Moon Jo opened the bottle of juice and slipped the pills in it to put Jongwoo to sleep. Perhaps it’ll cause a fight if Jongwoo spends the night here. She’d have to be quite stupid to think nothing happened, wouldn’t she?

Moon Jo smirked to himself, forcing himself to stop on his way back to the bedroom. He offered the juice to Jongwoo, pretending to open it in front of him first. 

Moon Jo got in bed and took a sip of water before settling under the blankets, Jongwoo sitting for a moment to chug the juice before setting the empty bottle aside and lying down next to him. But he noticeably didn’t get any closer. Moon Jo felt a bit saddened by the distance but he was too worried to get closer either. 

“What’s the worst thing you’ve seen as a dentist?” Jongwoo asked suddenly. 

Moon Jo thought for a moment. “Well, there was a recovering addict who came to me once with this intense pain in his gums. His teeth were literally disintegrating in front of my eyes while I was assessing him but the worst part was when I was inspecting a socket I found a small spider’s dead body stuck there.” 

The disgust on Jongwoo’s face made him chuckle. “Oh my god, what a fucking nightmare!…Be honest, are you making this up?

“I truly wish I was,” Moon Jo replied. 

Jongwoo shuddered. “Ah, I don’t think I want to hear any more of your work stories before bed.”

Moon Jo smiled and turned off the lamp on his side of the bed. “Fair enough. Though they’re not always so nightmarish even in the worst of cases.” 

“I would hope not,” Jongwoo said. 

“So…can I add a lifetime of free dental care to my pro column?” Moon Jo joked.

Jongwoo chuckled, the tension easing a little. “Sure, Jagi.” 

They both settled into bed but Jongwoo got on his phone to write while Moon Jo pretended to sleep. It didn’t take long for Jongwoo to fall asleep with his phone on his chest and Moon Jo just watched him sleep.

Jongwoo’s phone buzzed after a while and Moon Jo grabbed it from his chest to check it.

| Staying the night at my parents, Baby. 

Don’t wait up for me 💕💕💕 |

He set Jongwoo’s phone down and sighed heavily. He watched Jongwoo sleep. “It seems I drugged you for no reason, Jagi. My apologies. I would’ve liked to spend more time with you tonight, but it’s my fault for jumping the gun. But also…I guess I needed a little time alone after what I almost did tonight.” 

He stared at Jongwoo’s pretty face and sighed again. He was still rattled from earlier but for different reasons now. “I’ve told you all about my father and the abuse he inflicted on me, but I didn’t tell you that he was an Alpha and used to intimidate me with his pheromones into staying stock still.” 

“They way I said it before, maybe you thought I had fought back and been overpowered because I was just a kid but…the truth is that he used his status on me to force me to submit to him. So I never fought back, I just let him cut me as I laid there and shook in fear…”

”…I killed him, you know. I won’t bore you with how I found him, but when I did, I snuck into his house. He was passed out in a chair, reeking of alcohol, and everything came flooding back in…I didn’t go there to do that. I really didn’t but…while I was looking through his things I found a positive pregnancy test in his trash can…”

“Can you believe that, Jagi? He was going to have another kid and forget I ever existed. And it occurred to me that he might hurt the kid the way he hurt me the second it or its mother did something he didn’t like. Of course, I couldn’t be sure, it was only my assumption.”

”So I watched him, and the woman he was seeing…I would see her go into his apartment all dressed up and happy at first, but when she started to show, I noticed bruises on her body—her arms, her face, her legs. And then, one day she ran out crying with cuts on her arms and I knew then that it truly wasn’t my fault he’d hurt me all those times.” 

“So I did what I had to. I went into his apartment and found him sitting on the floor with the broken bottle still in his hand. He was wiping blood off his face when he noticed me. That woman had fought back—she was an Omega, but she’d still been able to fight back…So I thought I should too.”

”And it was glorious, Jagiya, as I used my pheromones and picked up a big shard of glass and smelled his fear. He recognized me. He called me that name—that dreadful name he’d given me—the one even my birth mother had complained about out in her pregnancy journal because she didn't want to name me after his brother—a child predator he idolized for raising him. She’d almost left him when he suggested it…I often wish she had.”

“I think my birth mother would’ve been quite…” Moon Jo shook his head. “This isn’t about her…I kicked him onto his back and ordered him to stay still while I cut into him—his arms, his chest, his shirt, his stomach, his back—everywhere he used to cut me. I cut him and he begged me to stop but he was weak and frail. My birth mother was barely twenty and he’d been forty three when they met and by the time I killed him he was sixty three.”

“And he only had the strength to hurt women and children from the beginning. He claimed that Omega woman against her will and I suspect my mother was too naive to understand what he’d done to her too based on her journal entries. My father was always good at playing the traditional Alpha—the kind who claim and take everything they want and force everyone else to get in line.”

“He was such a pathetic waste of life and I felt satisfaction watching the life drain from his eyes…But that story I told you about the diner was true. I actually did remember my love for him that day, I just don’t think you’re ready for the full truth yet.”

“I only bring all this up because I almost did something the way my father would’ve. The way I promised you I wouldn’t…I can live with many things but being like him isn’t one of them. And I want you to know me by the name my birth mother picked out and not the one he gave me. So call me Moon Jo affectionately and don’t ask about the other one, Jagi. I am your Seo Moon Jo. I won’t be anyone else.”

Moon Jo reached over and stroked Jongwoo’s face lovingly. Should I just expose that woman already so you can end that useless relationship? Or would that just backfire? Would you just runaway again? Would you hate me for keeping this secret as a trump card?

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