Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

TWO WEEKS LATER

Toge finally leaves the hospital.

He sits in the backseat of the car, his father behind the wheel, his mother beside him. The windows are rolled down slightly, letting in the crisp afternoon breeze, and the familiar sights of home growing closer make his chest feel light.

His mother is nearly bursting with excitement, her hand constantly reaching over to ruffle his silver hair. Toge makes a face at her, smoothing it down for the fifth—or maybe sixth—time, but he can’t keep the silly grin off his face.

The hospital bed was fine, but it wasn’t his. It’s been so long since he’s been able to sleep in his own bed, to feel the soft, worn sheets he bundles up against the wall just-so, and the familiar dip in the mattress. He’s already planning the first long walk he’ll take in the garden, to breathe in the flowers and hear the crunch of gravel under his feet.

And school—Toge never thought he would have said this—but he can’t wait to go back. Getting paper handouts brought to him was fine, but he missed the energy of the classroom, the way the world buzzed when he was surrounded by friends and peers. There are so many things he wants to do, and now that he’s finally healing, they feel within reach.

His father chuckles softly, and Toge glances up at him, one eyebrow raised in question. What’s so funny?

His father shakes his head, his eyes warm as they pull into the estate. “You’ll see,” he says simply, his voice light with amusement.

The car comes to a gentle stop, and Toge reaches for the door handle. His mother leans in one last time, ruffling his hair yet again. He swats her hand away with a mock glare, smoothing it down as he steps out of the car.

As he straightens, his hands brushing his hair into place, he glances up—and his heart stops in his chest.

Yuuta is waiting.

Sure, Toge saw him in the hospital, often enough that it almost felt like Yuuta had his own room there. But this—seeing Yuuta here, outside, waiting for him to come home—it hits differently. There’s something about the way Yuuta’s eyes light up when they meet his, something about the small, slightly nervous smile tugging at Yuuta’s lips that makes Toge’s heart stutter.

Then Yuuta moves, his hands lifting slowly. His brows pinch in the middle as he focuses, and his lips move as he says, and signs, Welcome home, Toge.

Yuuta even finger-spells his name, each letter carefully shaped, though there’s a hint of hesitation in his movements.

Toge’s mouth falls open, his lip trembling. The weight of what Yuuta has done crashes over him. All their time in the hospital, Yuuta never told him he was learning sign language. Toge never expected it. He never thought Yuuta would take the time, not because he doubted him, but because—well, because it didn’t seem necessary.

But he should have expected it. Yuuta was always so good to him, always taking care of him, always going above and beyond.

Toge’s eyes blur, his lip quivering harder as Yuuta closes the distance between them.

“I’m so sorry, Toge,” Yuuta says, his voice soft and earnest as his arms wrap around Toge, pulling him close. “Please don’t cry. I’ll do better next time, okay?” He smiles, his tone lighthearted, but his voice cracks slightly, betraying the depth of his own emotions.

Toge doesn’t hesitate. His arms come up to wrap around Yuuta, holding him tightly. Yuuta feels different now—bigger, stronger—and Toge realizes with a start just how much taller Yuuta is than him now. Is this because he’s an alpha? Criminal.

He tucks his face into the crook of Yuuta’s neck and lets himself cry. Ugly, body-shaking sobs that he can’t hold back, his fingers clutching at Yuuta’s hoodie as if letting go isn’t an option.

Yuuta holds him through it, one hand rubbing slow circles on Toge’s back, the other cradling the back of his head. “It’s okay,” Yuuta whispers, his voice thick with emotion. “You’re home now. It’s okay.”

And it is. It’s so good to be home.

•~•~•

Yuuta and Toge quickly fall into old routines after Toge comes home, their friendship slotting back into place as though nothing has changed. It’s comforting, familiar, and Toge is so grateful for everything Yuuta has done for him—the visits, the quiet reassurances, and now the thoughtful way Yuuta signs with him during conversations. Yuuta never mentions how much time he spent learning, but Toge can see the effort in every deliberate movement of his hands.

It feels like old times. Almost.

•~•~•

Yuuta leaves for nearly a week during his next rut, and when he returns, he looks haggard. His usually neat hair is a mess, dark circles (worse than normal, if that were even possible), and his movements are slower, more deliberate, like he’s conserving energy.

Toge watches him closely, his heart aching with every subtle sign of Yuuta’s suffering. Yuuta brushes it off, laughing weakly when Toge fusses over him, but Toge sees through the act. 

Yuuta is tired—bone-deep, soul-weary tired—and Toge can’t shake the feeling that it’s because he’s not there for him. Not the way an omega would be.

The thought eats at him, growing heavier with every passing day. Toge wants to be an omega. He wants it so badly he can feel it in his bones, in the way his hands tremble when he signs, in the way his chest tightens when he watches Yuuta push through the aftermath of his ruts alone.

More than anything, Toge wants to be Yuuta’s omega.

But he isn’t.

He never presented. He’s just a useless beta.

•~•~•

Toge sits on the couch, his fingers moving restlessly as he picks at a loose thread on his sweater. Yuuta is beside him, leaning back with his head resting against the cushions, his eyes half-closed as he tries to relax. The weight of the silence presses down on Toge until he can’t hold it in any longer.

His hands move slowly, hesitantly. An omega could…

He doesn’t finish the sign. His hands falter, and his throat tightens.

Yuuta sits up slightly, his attention sharpening. “What?” he asks softly, his eyes fixed on Toge’s hands. “What are you trying to say?”

Toge swallows hard, his fingers resuming their movement with difficulty. Your ruts are bad… You should find one. An omega. I’m sure there’s so many of them who would love to be with you.

The words feel like shards of glass in his throat, each one cutting deeper as he forces them out. He keeps his gaze fixed downward, unable to meet Yuuta’s eyes as he signs.

Yuuta frowns, his eyes locked on Toge’s hands. “Yeah,” he says after a long pause, his tone bland, almost detached. “I suppose I could.”

Toge’s chest tightens painfully at the admission. He takes it more to heart than Yuuta intended, the words echoing in his mind like a confirmation of every doubt and fear he’s had.

He curls inward slightly, his fingers tightening around the fabric of his sweater. The thought of Yuuta with someone else—someone who can give him what he needs—makes Toge feel small and hollow.

Yuuta’s arm wraps around Toge’s waist suddenly, pulling him close. The gesture is so casual, so natural, that it almost feels like breathing. Toge hesitates for a moment before tucking his head under Yuuta’s chin, his eyes fluttering closed as he leans into the warmth of Yuuta’s embrace.

They fit so perfectly together.

It’s not fair.

Toge presses his lips together, fighting the lump in his throat as Yuuta’s presence surrounds him, grounding and comforting in a way nothing else can. It’s not fair that Yuuta presented and he didn’t. It’s not fair that Toge feels this way when Yuuta is the one that deserves more than he can give.

But for now, Toge lets himself sink into Yuuta’s arms, savoring the closeness, even as his heart aches with the weight of everything left unsaid.

•~•~•

Despite Toge’s suggestion, Yuuta never falters. He never leaves. He stays by Toge’s side through everything, his presence a constant, grounding force that Toge doesn’t realize just how much he’s come to depend on.

Even when Toge’s energy dips and he needs to nap in the middle of their hangouts, Yuuta doesn’t complain. Instead, he stays, keeping quiet to let Toge rest. Every time Toge wakes, it’s to find those same soft, gentle fingers threading through his hair, adjusting the collar of his shirt, just staying close. Yuuta’s touch is careful, reverent, like he’s afraid of disturbing him, and it always fills Toge with warmth.

More recently, though, Toge has started waking up to something more. Yuuta’s steady arms wrapped securely around him, holding him close like it’s the most natural thing in the world.

Today is no different.

Toge’s eyelids flutter open, his breath slow and even as he registers the warmth surrounding him. Even in his sleep, Yuuta’s arms are firm but gentle, draped over Toge in a protective embrace. His chest rises and falls steadily against Toge’s back.

Toge wiggles slightly, just enough to shift in Yuuta’s hold and tilt his head back. 

Toge wants to see him.

Yuuta’s face is serene, his features softened in sleep. There’s no trace of worry, no furrowed brows thinking about kendo matches, no distant gaze weighed down by homework deadlines. Toge’s heart clenches as he watches him, his lavender eyes trailing over the relaxed line of Yuuta’s mouth, the faint curve of his lashes.

He could watch him like this for hours.

Yuuta’s face scrunches suddenly, and Toge stifles a laugh. Before he can move too far, a sharp tug pulls him back, and he’s pressed firmly against Yuuta’s chest. The sudden movement steals a breathy exhale from Toge, but it doesn’t surprise him.

Yuuta’s body shifts slightly, his hold tightening as if he’s instinctively aware of Toge trying to move away. Even in his sleep, Yuuta keeps him close, unwilling to let go.

Toge grins, a soft chuckle escaping him as he maneuvers enough to press his face into the crook of Yuuta’s neck.

He loves this silly, soft boy so much.

•~•~•

Toge cherishes these moments so much, but there was one time that he will always remember.

Toge stirs awake slowly, the familiar warmth of Yuuta’s arms wrapped around him. But this time, something feels different. The air is charged, and where Yuuta usually sleeps soundlessly, there’s a faint noise—soft murmurs, little growls, and quiet sighs slipping from his lips.

Toge’s eyes flutter open, his breath catching as he realizes Yuuta’s face is pressed against his shoulder, mouthing at the bare skin where Toge’s shirt has slipped down. Each lazy drag of Yuuta’s lips, each warm puff of breath, sends a shiver down Toge’s spine.

A gasp escapes Toge as a molten heat pools low in his belly. His heart pounds in his chest, his fingers twitching against the blanket as he tries to process the sensation of Yuuta’s hands. One is wrapped firmly around his waist, holding him close, while the other is under his shirt, palm warm against his back.

The world narrows to just this.

Toge’s leg is trapped between Yuuta’s, and Yuuta’s hips are moving in short, deliberate thrusts that press their bodies together in a way that leaves no room for misinterpretation.

A pitiful, involuntary sound rises in Toge’s throat before he can stop it. His body is on fire, every nerve alive with a mixture of need and disbelief.

And then he feels it—something larger, harder, pressing insistently against his hip with each of Yuuta’s movements. The realization hits him like a bolt of lightning, and his breath hitches sharply.

It’s not just Yuuta’s arousal; it’s the starting of a knot.

Yuuta’s knot.

Toge freezes, his mind racing as he tries to make sense of the situation. This is everything he’s ever wanted—Yuuta’s touch, his affections, the overwhelming proof that Yuuta feels something romantic for him. But it’s so much more than that, more than Toge ever dared to imagine.

His body trembles, torn between the burning desire to lean into the moment and the overwhelming vulnerability of it all. Yuuta’s quiet growl rumbles against his shoulder, sending another shiver through him, and Toge feels like he might unravel completely.

He doesn’t know what to do, his heart racing as Yuuta’s hands tighten slightly around him, holding him as if he’s the only thing keeping Yuuta grounded. The heat between them feels unbearable, but Toge doesn’t move, doesn’t dare to, as his mind whirls with possibilities.

Toge stays frozen, his breath coming in shallow, uneven bursts as his mind races. Yuuta’s hold on him feels so steady, so grounding, yet everything about the situation is anything but. The heat pooling in his belly churns, he can feel himself start to grow hard against Yuuta’s thigh, making his skin prickle with anticipation.

Yuuta murmurs again, a low, unintelligible sound, his face nuzzling further into Toge’s shoulder. The warmth of his breath tickles Toge’s skin, sending another shiver rippling down his spine. Yuuta shifts slightly, his hips pressing closer, and Toge feels the unmistakable firmness of Yuuta’s knot beginning to throb against his thigh.

Oh god.

Yuuta stirs suddenly, his murmurs turning into a soft growl as his grip on Toge tightens. His hips jerk forward, his movements still instinctual, and Toge lets out a quiet, choked sound at the sensation. The noise must break through the haze in Yuuta’s mind because he stops abruptly, his body going still.

“Toge?” Yuuta’s voice is low and rough. His hands loosen slightly on Toge’s waist, though he doesn’t let go.

Toge tilts his head slightly, glancing up at Yuuta’s face. His blue eyes are half-lidded, still hazy with remnants of sleep, and his brows furrow as he registers their position. Realization dawns, his eyes widening as the tension in his body shifts from instinctual to panicked.

“Oh my god,” Yuuta breathes, his voice tight with alarm. He pulls back quickly, putting a small but noticeable distance between them. “I—I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to—I wasn’t—”

Toge shifts onto his back, his heart still pounding, his hands trembling slightly as he lifts them to sign. It’s okay, he reassures Yuuta, though his fingers stumble over the movements. You didn’t hurt me.

Yuuta stares at him, guilt and confusion warring in his expression. His scent, already thick, shifts, tinged with distress.

“I didn’t even realize…” Yuuta trails off, running a hand through his messy hair. His eyes dart away from Toge, as though afraid of what he’ll see if he looks too closely. “I—I should’ve been more careful.”

Toge sits up slowly, his movements deliberate as he reaches out to touch Yuuta’s hand. The contact makes Yuuta flinch slightly, but he doesn’t pull away.

Toge shakes his head firmly. You don’t need to apologize.

Yuuta finally looks at him, his eyes searching Toge’s face for any hint of discomfort or anger. Instead, he finds only warmth and reassurance.

“I just—” Yuuta starts, then stops, swallowing hard. “I don’t want to make you uncomfortable. Ever.”

Toge’s lips curve into a small smile, his hands moving again, slower this time. You didn’t.

Yuuta exhales shakily, his body relaxing slightly as he lets Toge’s words sink in. They sit there in silence for a moment, the tension between them shifting into something softer, something unspoken but undeniably there.

Toge’s heart is still racing, but it’s not entirely from panic anymore. The heat from earlier hasn’t fully subsided, and the memory of Yuuta’s touch lingers on his skin, making his chest feel tight.

Yuuta clears his throat, breaking the quiet. “I… I think I should go take a shower or something,” he mutters, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly.

Toge nods, though there’s a part of him that doesn’t want Yuuta to leave. He doesn’t stop him, though, watching as Yuuta stands and shuffles out of the room, his scent still lingering faintly in the air.

As the door closes softly behind him, Toge leans back against the pillows, his fingers brushing against his shoulder where Yuuta’s mouth had been.

Toge wishes he was an omega.

Toge wishes he was Yuuta’s omega.

Yuuta steps out of the shower, his sweatpants hanging low on his hips, water droplets still clinging to his skin. He’s calmer now, his earlier tension seemingly washed away by the hot water. A towel is slung over his shoulders, and he lazily scrubs at his hair, water droplets scattering as he leans forward.

Toge watches from the bed, his eyes glued to Yuuta as he moves across the room, completely oblivious to the effect he’s having. Yuuta’s bare chest catches the light from the window, his lean, toned muscles flexing with every movement. His abs ripple slightly as he bends down to dig through a drawer— his drawer —the one they’ve designated for each other’s things over years of sleepovers and shared weekends.

Toge swallows hard, his throat suddenly dry. Does he know what he’s doing? It’s ridiculous how casual Yuuta is now, after being so nervous earlier. He’s walking around as if Toge isn’t actively trying to stop himself from getting hard just watching this display.

And then Yuuta starts talking.

“Maki and I had a good talk the other day,” Yuuta begins, his voice soft but carrying a note of quiet determination, like he's finally figured something out. He pulls a white t-shirt from the drawer and tosses the towel aside before slipping it over his head, the fabric clinging briefly to his damp skin.

Toge sits up slightly, intrigued despite the heat pooling low in his stomach.

“She told me to be honest about what I want for my birthday,” Yuuta continues, smoothing the shirt over his torso before turning to face Toge fully.

Toge beams at him, his eyes bright with anticipation as he signs, So? What do you want?

Yuuta’s eyes meet his, steady and sincere, and his lips curve into a smile that makes Toge’s chest tighten. “I want you, Toge,” he says, his voice unwavering as he moves his hands to sign the same.

Toge’s eyes widen briefly, his heart skipping a beat before he recovers, his grin returning. His fingers move fluidly, signing back with a teasing air. You have me, of course. I’m not going anywhere.

But Yuuta’s smile only grows, his expression softening into something almost reverent. He steps closer, resting an arm casually on the bed frame as he leans in slightly. “No,” he clarifies, his voice quieter now, almost tender. “For my birthday, I just want you.”

The words hang in the air, heavy and full of meaning.

Toge chuckles softly, the flush creeping up his neck making him feel warm all over. He brushes off the sentiment with playful ease, his hands moving swiftly to sign, Where do you want to go?

Yuuta pauses, his gaze lingering on Toge with such intensity that it makes Toge’s pulse quicken. When he finally speaks, his voice is barely above a whisper.

“Nowhere,” Yuuta replies. “I just want to spend the day with you, however you’ll let me.”

Toge’s breath catches, his face heating as his pulse quickens. The intensity in Yuuta’s gaze is enough to make him feel like he might melt into a puddle right there on the bed. His lips part slightly, as though to say something, but no words come.

Okay, Toge signs finally, his movements slower, more deliberate as he meets Yuuta’s gaze.

Yuuta’s grin widens, his lips pulling back to reveal teeth in a way that’s both playful and undeniably captivating, and Toge feels the heat in his cheeks spread to his ears.

“Okay?” Yuuta clarifies, his voice soft but brimming with anticipation. 

Toge swallows hard, his heart pounding in his chest. He nods, the movement small but certain, even as his hands twist nervously in his lap.

“Okay,” Yuuta repeats, his eyes dipping down to Toge’s lips, lingering there for just a moment too long.

Toge nods again, more quickly this time, his hands moving to sign before he can think better of it. More than okay.

Yuuta leans in just a fraction, his hand still resting casually on the bed frame, but it’s enough to make Toge’s heart lurch. He can feel the heat radiating off Yuuta’s body, can see the faint flush in his cheeks, and the way his eyes flicker back up to meet Toge’s.

Yuuta’s smile turns softer, more genuine, and Toge feels like he’s about to combust under the weight of his own feelings. 

Yuuta shifts slightly, his free hand moving as if to reach for Toge, but he stops himself short, his fingers curling into a loose fist. 

“Good,” he says, his voice barely above a whisper. “It’s a date.”

Toge feels his cheeks burn, and he ducks his head slightly, unable to hold Yuuta’s gaze for too long. But the warmth spreading through his chest feels like the best kind of fire, and for the first time in a long time, he doesn’t feel the need to extinguish it.

The room feels smaller, the air charged with something unspoken but electric. Toge’s fingers twitch in his lap, his mind racing as he struggles to process the shift in the atmosphere. He’s always known Yuuta cared for him—of course he did—but this feels different. This feels like everything he’s ever hoped for.

“It’s a date,” Yuuta says again, this time more softly, almost like a secret between the two of them.

And Toge knows, without a doubt, that it’s going to be perfect.

When the day of Yuuta's birthday arrives, Toge stands in front of his mirror, fingers twitching nervously as he smooths down the front of his shirt for the third—no, fourth—time. His reflection stares back at him, and he tilts his head, scrutinizing every detail of his outfit.

He’s chosen something simple but flattering: a fitted sweater that clings just right and a pair of dark jeans that hug his legs snugly. The sweater is soft and a pale lavender that brings out the color of his eyes, a subtle nod to the way Yuuta always says his eyes make him look ethereal.

Toge shifts on his feet, running a hand through his silver hair to make sure it falls just right. It’s styled more carefully than usual, with a slight tousled look that he hopes comes across as effortless. He leans closer to the mirror, biting his lip as he adjusts a strand that seems determined to stick out at an odd angle.

He steps back, giving himself one last once-over. The outfit is good. He looks good. No—he looks cute.

And he wants to.

He wants to look good for Yuuta. He wants to feel confident standing next to him, to remember this day—their first proper day together, just the two of them—as something special.

Even if he isn’t Yuuta’s omega, he can still be Yuuta’s. They can figure out all the other stuff later.

The thought makes his chest flutter, a mix of excitement and nerves swirling in his stomach. Toge straightens, tugging his sleeves down slightly to cover his fingers as he glances at the clock. It’s almost time.

He exhales, trying to steady himself, and gives his reflection a small nod. He wants today to be perfect—for Yuuta, for himself, and for whatever comes next between them.

Grabbing his bag, Toge heads toward the door, his heart racing with anticipation as he steps out to meet Yuuta.

•~•~•

Toge isn’t just celebrating Yuuta’s birthday; he’s celebrating his own triumph today. His doctors have cleared him, his physio is done, and he’s finally, completely healed. No more hospital visits, no more limitations. He feels like himself again—better, even. He’s ready to embrace life fully, to be a normal boy again.

What neither Toge nor anyone else accounted for was something they’d skimmed over in their Biology of Dynamics class. The body’s natural response to trauma, how severe injuries—like the neck trauma Toge endured—could suppress the very mechanisms that allow someone to present. A survival mechanism, designed to protect him when he was vulnerable.

But Toge isn’t vulnerable anymore.

Toge is healed now. Toge is happy now.

And his body knows it.

Toge walks down the street, his thoughts light and buzzing with excitement. His sweater clings snugly to his frame, a pale lavender that makes him feel confident and cute. He glances at shop windows as he passes, imagining how Yuuta’s face will light up when he sees him. It’s going to be a good day, Toge thinks, his chest warm with anticipation.

He doesn’t notice the faint tingle in his scent glands, a sensation he’s never paid much attention to. Nor does he feel the subtle warmth spreading through his body, the first hints of something his mind is too preoccupied to register.

The gentle breeze carries faint scents from an alleyway—sharp, musky, and tinged with the acrid tang of an alpha. Toge doesn’t notice. He doesn’t hear the low, guttural growl from the shadows, nor the faint scuff of shoes on the pavement.

He rounds the corner, his heart light, carefree. The world feels bright, the promise of the day ahead filling him with energy.

And then a hand grabs his arm.

The grip is rough and bruising, the sharp edge of nails digging into his skin through the fabric of his sweater. Toge barely has time to gasp before he’s yanked into the shadows, his back slamming into the brick wall of the alley. The impact knocks the wind out of him, and he whimpers—a broken, pitiful sound that barely escapes his lips.

His senses flood with chaos. The oppressive weight of an alpha’s scent crashes over him, sour and metallic, clinging to the air like rust and vinegar. Toge’s stomach churns, and his chest tightens as panic claws its way up his throat.

“Such a pretty thing,” the alpha slurs, his voice rough and low. His scruffy, ragged appearance looms closer, his dirty fingers digging painfully into Toge’s arm to hold him in place.

Toge’s instincts scream at him to get away. He twists, trying to duck under the man’s arm and bolt, but a single word stops him cold.

“Stay.”

Toge’s body freezes. His limbs lock against his will, refusing to obey as the alpha’s command reverberates through him. His mind races, panicked and confused, as he realizes with growing dread that he can’t move.

The alpha’s scent intensifies, pressing down on Toge like a physical weight. His neck itches fiercely, the glands there pulsing with an unfamiliar sensation. Toge tries to turn his head away, instinctively shielding the vulnerable spot, but the alpha notices.

Of course, he notices.

“Don’t hide from me,” the alpha growls, his voice thick with something dark and possessive. He leans in, his nose brushing against Toge’s neck before pressing firmly against the swollen scent gland.

His neck itches fiercely, the swollen scent glands there pulsing in a way they never have before. The sensation is unbearable, fire spreading from the base of his neck and radiating down to his abdomen. It’s not the comforting warmth he’s come to associate with Yuuta’s presence; it’s a heavy, alien heat that coils in his belly like a snake, making him feel sick.

Toge tries again to duck under the man’s arm, but the alpha pins him harder against the brick wall, the rough surface scraping against his back through his sweater.

“Where do you think you’re going?” the alpha murmurs, his voice slurred but dripping with amusement. “You smell so good. So fresh. Like you’re just starting to bloom.”

Toge shudders, his breaths coming faster as tears prick at the corners of his eyes. He can’t move. His limbs refuse to cooperate, his body betraying him under the weight of the alpha’s command and scent.

“Stop,” Toge manages to croak, his voice barely audible.

But the alpha doesn’t stop. He grips Toge’s chin roughly with one hand, forcing his head to the side to expose more of his neck. “Don’t be shy,” he growls. “It’s just biology, isn’t it? You’re an omega—this is what you’re made for.”

The words send a jolt of panic through Toge, his vision blurring as tears spill down his cheeks. The fire in his neck spreads, searing through his entire body, and he feels himself sinking further into helplessness.

Someone, anyone... make it stop.

Toge’s breaths come in shallow gasps, tears welling in his eyes as he struggles to escape. His fingers scrabble at the wall behind him, desperate for purchase, for anything to ground him.

But there’s nothing.

The alley is too quiet, the bustling streets just beyond it too far away. People are walking by, oblivious, and Toge can’t scream—his voice won’t come, his throat too raw, his fear too suffocating.

His vision blurs as tears stream down his face, his body trembling against the brick wall. Somebody, anybody, make it stop!

Then there’s a loud noise, like something heavy slamming into the ground, and the alpha’s weight is suddenly ripped away from him.

Toge flinches violently, his eyes squeezing shut as the sounds of growling and scuffling fill the alley. His knees buckle slightly, and he slides down the wall, the rough surface pulling his shirt up further, but he can’t bring himself to care.

His breaths come in shallow gasps, his chest heaving as he curls in on himself, too overwhelmed to make sense of what’s happening.

Suddenly, Toge is pulled into someone’s arms again. He stiffens, his body trembling as a large hand slides up the back of his shirt, touching the exposed skin he hadn’t bothered to cover. His panic surges, and he starts to scramble, pushing at the firm chest in front of him with weak, desperate hands.

“Nnngh,” he croaks, trying to say No, but his voice is barely a whisper. He doesn’t want this, doesn’t want them. He wants—

Yuuta.

Where is Yuuta?

“Toge.”

The voice cuts through his panic like a lifeline. Familiar. Steady. Yuuta.

“Toge, love, you’re okay,” a familiar voice murmurs softly. “Just relax. I’ve got you.”

Toge’s eyes fly open, and his breath catches in his throat as he sees Yuuta’s face. Midnight blue eyes, wide with concern and glistening with emotion, lock onto his own. There’s so much in them—upset, fear, and an overwhelming softness that soothes the jagged edges of Toge’s panic.

Yuuta leans down, rubbing his cheek against Toge’s, his movements slow and deliberate. Then he dips lower, nuzzling into Toge’s neck, his face brushing over the swollen scent glands there, and moves back to Toge’s cheek.

Is he… scenting him?

The realization sends a shiver through Toge’s entire body, and he gasps as a warm, intoxicating scent fills his senses. It’s Yuuta—vanilla and eucalyptus, grounding and protective—and it wraps around Toge like a cocoon, blocking out every trace of fear and sourness left behind by the other alpha.

Gods, Toge never realized how good Yuuta smelled.

“Yuuta,” Toge rasps, his voice breaking, the name falling from his lips like a desperate plea. His weak, trembling hands that had been pushing Yuuta away now clutch at his hoodie, pulling him closer.

Yuuta’s face softens, and he leans in, pressing his cheek to Toge’s in a slow, deliberate motion, letting his scent wrap around him. Then he dips lower, nuzzling gently into the side of Toge’s neck, licking the swollen scent glands that still throb painfully.

Toge stiffens, the unfamiliar sensation making his heart race, but it’s also intoxicating, comforting, and before he knows it, Toge is melting into Yuuta’s arms, his body slackening as the tension bleeds out of him.

“Relax,” Yuuta whispers against his skin, his voice soft and full of conviction, almost as if he’s trying not just to convince Toge, but himself as well. “You’re safe now. I promise.”

Toge’s body trembles as his breath hitches, and he clings to Yuuta tighter, his fingers twisting into the fabric of his hoodie. Unbidden, sounds begin to escape his lips—soft, pitiful whines and whimpers, barely audible.

Yuuta, Yuuta, Yuuta.

The name repeats in Toge’s head, spilling from his lips in soft, broken whispers he doesn’t even realize he’s making. Whines and whimpers escape him, his barely-there voice calling out for Yuuta like a prayer.

Yuuta suddenly pulls back, his hands gripping Toge’s waist tightly to keep him steady as he looks at him. His eyes are blown wide, his pupils dilated, and his mouth slightly open as he breathes heavily.

“Mine,” Yuuta growls, his voice low and full of raw emotion. “You’re mine, Toge. You’ve always been mine, and nobody else can have you.”

The words send a jolt of something electric through Toge’s body, and his scent glands flare painfully as the fire in his neck spreads through his entire being. His vision blurs as the heat pooling in his belly ignites into something fierce, something undeniable.

Toge trembles in Yuuta’s arms, his head spinning as the pieces click into place. He’s never shown any signs of having a secondary gender. He’s lived his whole life as a beta—or so he thought. But under extreme stress, your scent can vanish as a pseudo-fight-or-flight response, making you less of a target.

Toge’s scent had been dormant. Suppressed by his accident.

But now he’s healed. Now he’s safe. Now he’s happy.

And now he’s presenting.

Toge’s body burns with a new, unbearable heat, and Yuuta’s fresh scent only stokes the flames. The realization slams into him like a tidal wave: He’s an omega.

And he’s going into heat.

Toge whines again, his body pressing closer to Yuuta’s as his instincts take over. His fingers dig into Yuuta’s back, his entire being focused on the alpha holding him, his alpha. Yuuta’s scent is all around him, comforting yet overwhelming.

“Let’s get you out of here,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice softer now but no less determined. “We’re going somewhere safe.”

Toge nods faintly against Yuuta’s chest, his body still trembling but calmer now, anchored by Yuuta’s presence. As Yuuta lifts him effortlessly, Toge wraps his legs around Yuuta’s waist instinctively, burying his face into the curve of Yuuta’s neck. He doesn’t bother trying to see what happened to the other alpha, he isn’t important anymore, Yuuta is.

The steady rhythm of Yuuta’s breath, the firm hold keeping him close—all of it tells Toge one thing:

He’s safe. Yuuta will protect him. Always.

His alpha.

•~•~•

Yuuta pushes through the hotel’s revolving door with a single-minded determination, Toge cradled securely in a bridal carry in his arms. His heart is pounding, adrenaline coursing through him as he strides toward the front desk. The soft murmurs of the lobby guests fall away, replaced by the rhythmic hum of his footsteps on the polished tile.

Toge shifts slightly against him, letting out a soft whimper that tugs at Yuuta’s heart. His head burrows deeper into Yuuta’s neck, his breath warm and uneven against his skin. Yuuta can feel the subtle tremble in Toge’s body, his omega instincts pulling him closer, seeking safety and stability.

“Excuse me,” Yuuta says firmly as he reaches the desk, his voice calm but with an edge of urgency. The clerk glances up, their eyes widening briefly at the sight of Yuuta—tall, commanding, carrying an omega visibly on the edge of heat. Yuuta knows what he looks like, like just another boy looking for a booty call, they can think what they like, as long as they give him a room.

“I’d like a room.” Yuuta asks, his tone leaving no room for negotiation.

The clerk hesitates, their gaze darting between Yuuta and Toge. “I’m sorry, sir,” they begin smoothly, though their expression betrays a hint of unease. “All of our standard rooms are currently occupied.”

Yuuta’s eyes narrow slightly, his grip on Toge tightening protectively. “Then give me whatever’s available,” he replies curtly, already reaching for his black card.

The clerk glances at the card, recognition flashing in their eyes at the black card lacking a limit on the counter. Their demeanor shifts slightly, more deferential, though a faint edge of judgment lingers as their gaze flicks back to Toge. “We do have the penthouse suite available,” they offer, their voice polite but cautious.

“Fine,” Yuuta says without hesitation, sliding the card across the counter. “Charge it. Whatever the cost.”

The clerk swipes the card, their practiced smile faltering as they process the transaction. “We’ll need to pre-charge the cleaning deposit as well,” they add, their tone carefully neutral.

Yuuta doesn’t flinch. “Do it,” he says sharply, his attention already shifting back to Toge as the clerk hands him the key card.

“Enjoy your stay,” the clerk says, though the words are perfunctory, their tone carrying an unspoken weight. Yuuta doesn’t acknowledge it.

•~•~•

The elevator ride feels endless. Yuuta presses the button for the top floor and leans back against the wall, adjusting his hold on Toge. The omega whimpers again, his fingers twitching slightly as they clutch at Yuuta’s hoodie.

“You’re okay,” Yuuta murmurs softly, his voice steady despite the fire burning in his chest. “Almost there, Toge. Just hold on a little longer.”

Toge doesn’t answer, but his body relaxes slightly against Yuuta, his soft breaths brushing against Yuuta’s collarbone.

When the elevator doors slide open, Yuuta steps out into the quiet, luxurious hallway. He reaches the penthouse door quickly, swiping the key card and stepping inside.

The suite is expansive and immaculate, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the city. But Yuuta doesn’t care about the view. All he sees is the enormous bed in the center of the room, draped in crisp white linens.

He crosses the room in a few long strides, lowering Toge gently onto the bed. Toge whimpers as he’s laid down, his hands clinging to Yuuta’s hoodie as if afraid to let go.

“I’m right here,” Yuuta reassures him, leaning down to brush Toge’s hair back from his flushed face. His voice is calm, but his heart is pounding. “I’m not going anywhere.”

Toge’s lavender eyes flutter open, glassy and unfocused, as he looks up at Yuuta. A soft, broken sound escapes him, and Yuuta’s chest tightens.

“You’re safe,” Yuuta says again, his voice firm but gentle. “I’ll take care of you, Toge. Always.”

Yuuta retrieves a cool, damp cloth from the bathroom, his movements purposeful yet gentle. The soft patter of water from the faucet echoes faintly in the luxurious space, grounding him in the moment as he wrings out the cloth. He hurries back to the bed, where Toge lies trembling, his body flushed and fevered as his heat consumes him.

Kneeling beside him, Yuuta presses the cool cloth to Toge’s flushed cheeks and neck, dabbing lightly to offer some relief. Toge shivers at the sensation, a soft whimper escaping his lips, but his body leans into Yuuta’s touch instinctively.

“You’re doing so good,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice low and soothing as he strokes Toge’s damp hair back.

Toge’s breath hitches, his chest rising and falling with shallow pants, and his lavender eyes flutter open. They’re glassy and unfocused, tears pooling in the corners as he looks up at Yuuta with a mixture of vulnerability and trust.

Yuuta cups Toge’s face with both hands, his thumbs brushing gently over his cheeks as he leans closer. “Toge,” he breathes, his voice thick with emotion. “You’re so pretty.”

He kisses Toge’s forehead, the contact lingering and tender. Then he moves lower, pressing soft kisses to each cheek, his lips brushing over the heated skin.

“You’re so good,” Yuuta murmurs between kisses, his voice trembling slightly. “You’re so strong. You’re going to be okay. We’re going to get through this. It’s all going to be okay, baby.”

When he reaches the corner of Toge’s mouth, he pauses, his breath warm against Toge’s skin as he searches those lavender eyes for permission. Toge doesn’t pull away—instead, his hands reach weakly for Yuuta’s hoodie, gripping it with what little strength he has.

Yuuta’s heart swells, and he presses one more kiss to the corner of Toge’s mouth, soft and reverent, his hands never leaving Toge’s face.

“You’re mine, Toge,” Yuuta whispers, his voice cracking as he rests his forehead gently against Toge’s. “You’ve always been mine. I’ll take care of you. Always.”

Toge’s breathing is still labored, but his trembling begins to ease slightly under Yuuta’s touch and words. His eyelids flutter closed as a soft, broken sound escapes him, almost like a plea, and Yuuta’s chest tightens painfully. The scent of jasmine and green tea begins to bloom in the air—fresh and raw. It’s Toge, unmistakably Toge.

Yuuta’s lips brush against Toge’s plush ones, soft and unhurried, yet carrying the weight of so much emotion. Toge’s trembling body responds immediately, his lips parting instinctively, moving against Yuuta’s with a frantic sort of innocence. It’s clumsy, raw, and perfect in its desperation.

Toge’s hips lift again, seeking, needy, and Yuuta chuckles softly into the kiss, his breath warm against Toge’s skin. The sound is low and soothing, grounding them both for a fleeting moment in the chaotic heat of the room.

Yuuta pulls back slightly, his concerned eyes meeting Toge’s, silently asking for permission to continue. When Toge nods faintly, his gaze hazy but full of trust, Yuuta’s heart clenches.

“You’re doing so good,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice like a calming wave as his hands move with deliberate care. One hand slides under Toge’s sweater, the fabric bunching as Yuuta pushes it higher, revealing the soft, pale skin of Toge’s abdomen.

The sight steals Yuuta’s breath for a moment. Toge’s skin is flushed with the fever of his heat, a delicate pink spreading across his stomach. Yuuta’s hand rests there for a moment, grounding them both before he dips down, pressing a soft kiss just below Toge’s belly button.

Toge shudders, his body arching slightly at the sensation, and a soft whine escapes him. His fingers tangle in the fabric of Yuuta’s hoodie again, holding on tightly as Yuuta nuzzles his cheek into the warm skin of Toge’s abdomen.

“You’re so perfect, Toge,” Yuuta whispers against his skin, his words vibrating softly as he speaks. “So good, so strong. I’ve got you.”

Toge’s breathing hitches, his chest rising and falling in shallow pants as Yuuta’s scent—comforting, grounding, and intoxicating—wraps around him like a cocoon. Yuuta’s kisses trail lower, gentle and reverent, as his hands move to cradle Toge’s waist, steadying him through the tremors of his heat.

“Just let me take care of you,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice filled with unwavering resolve and tenderness. “I’ll make everything okay. I promise.”

Yuuta lifts Toge’s sweater higher, the soft fabric bunching just below his collarbone, exposing more of his flushed skin. His eyes trail over Toge’s trembling form, admiration and something deeper flashing in his gaze. He leans down, pressing a tender kiss to Toge’s sternum before murmuring against his skin, his voice warm and honeyed.

“I see you wore my favorite sweater for me, baby,” Yuuta whispers, his breath hot against Toge’s chest. “You’re such a good boy, such a good omega.”

Toge lets out a pitiful, needy whimper at the words as his preens, his fingers twitching against Yuuta’s hoodie as heat flares in his cheeks.

Yuuta dips lower, his lips brushing over one of Toge’s nipples before his tongue flicks out to circle it slowly. Toge shudders beneath him, his back arching slightly at the sensation. Yuuta hums softly, the sound vibrating against Toge’s skin, before closing his lips around the sensitive bud and sucking gently.

Toge gasps, his hands flying to Yuuta’s hair, gripping tight as his fingers tangle in the dark strands. His body writhes slightly, heat pooling low in his abdomen as Yuuta shifts to the other nipple, giving it the same slow, deliberate attention. His teeth graze it lightly, drawing a sharp inhale from Toge, followed by a barely audible whine.

“You taste so good,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice filled with reverence as he pulls back slightly to look at Toge’s flushed, panting form.

One of Yuuta’s hands glides down Toge’s body, his palm pressing gently against his stomach as he moves lower. His fingers trail over the waistband of Toge’s jeans, lingering there for a moment before brushing over the hard length straining beneath the denim.

Toge jolts at the contact, his body tensing for a heartbeat before melting into the sensation. A ragged, soundless scream escapes him as Yuuta gently squeezes, his thumb brushing over the outline of Toge’s cock with deliberate care.

“Look at you,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice dripping with affection and awe. “So sensitive, so perfect for me.”

Toge’s head falls back against the pillows, his mouth open in a silent cry as his hands tug desperately at Yuuta’s hair, urging him closer. His entire body trembles, overwhelmed by the intensity of Yuuta’s touch and the molten heat coursing through him.

Yuuta leans up, pressing a soft kiss to Toge’s jaw as his hand continues to tease, his thumb tracing slow, deliberate circles over the bulge in Toge’s jeans. “I’ve got you, baby,” Yuuta whispers, his voice steady and soothing. “Just let me take care of you.”

Toge’s hips buck weakly into Yuuta’s hand, his body responding instinctively as he clings to Yuuta, trusting him to guide him through the storm of his heat.

Yuuta gently pulls Toge’s sweater up and over his head, his fingers brushing against heated skin as he exposes more of Toge’s trembling body. He pauses every few inches to press soft, lingering kisses to each newly uncovered patch of skin all the way down to his underwear, whispering between kisses.

“You’re so beautiful,” he murmurs against Toge’s shoulder, his voice low and full of reverence. “Every part of you, perfect for me.”

Toge shivers under Yuuta’s touch, his breaths shallow and uneven as he gazes up at him with wide, glassy eyes. Yuuta’s lips trail down Toge’s chest, pressing soft kisses over his sternum and the dip of his ribs before moving lower.

Yuuta places his hands gently on the inside of Toge’s legs, the warmth of his palms grounding. “Relax, baby,” he whispers, his voice soothing as he nudges Toge’s legs apart. Toge complies, his body pliant and trusting as Yuuta spreads him open and settles between his thighs.

Yuuta’s eyes drop to Toge’s hard, leaking cock, the flushed tip glistening. He swallows hard, his mouth already watering as he leans in. With careful hands, he wraps his fingers around Toge’s length, his thumb swiping over the tip, smearing the pre-cum as Toge lets out a soft, breathless whine.

“You’re so good,” Yuuta whispers, his lips brushing the base of Toge’s length as he presses a kiss there. “Let me take care of you.”

He drags his tongue up the underside of Toge’s cock, slow and deliberate, before swirling it over the sensitive slit at the tip. Toge jolts, his body trembling as his hands fly to Yuuta’s hair, gripping tightly.

Yuuta hums softly, the vibration sending shivers through Toge’s body, before he takes him fully into his mouth. His lips seal around the base, his nose brushing against the coarse silver curls there as he lets out a quiet, satisfied sound.

Toge gasps, his back arching off the bed as pleasure courses through him. He tugs at Yuuta’s hair, his thighs trembling on either side of Yuuta’s head as he squirms beneath him.

Yuuta’s free hand slides underneath Toge, his fingers kneading the soft flesh of his ass as he sucks gently, his tongue working in slow, teasing strokes. His pinky strays lower, brushing experimentally between Toge’s cheeks, and he freezes momentarily as his finger meets a slick, warm wetness.

His breath catches.

He’s never touched an omega’s slick before, and the sensation sends a jolt of heat straight to his own cock. His hips jerk involuntarily against the mattress as he presses his pinky further, running it through the slick and spreading it gently.

Toge whines loudly, his hips jerking despite Yuuta’s firm hold on them, the combined sensations of Yuuta’s mouth and exploring fingers overwhelming him.

Yuuta’s groan is muffled around Toge’s cock as his free hand grips the sheets beneath him, his own hips grinding against the bed. He’s achingly hard, but he doesn’t stop, doesn’t falter. Everything is for Toge, every touch, every motion, every whispered reassurance.

“You’re amazing,” Yuuta murmurs between kisses and licks, his voice breathless but filled with love. “You’re so good for me, Toge. I’m so proud of you.”

Toge’s body trembles, his grip on Yuuta’s hair tightening as he gasps and squirms under the relentless waves of pleasure. The room is filled with their sounds—soft moans, muffled groans, and the wet, sinful noises of Yuuta’s mouth working diligently.

Yuuta sucks harder, hollowing his cheeks as he takes Toge deeper, his tongue working expertly along the underside of his cock. The muffled sounds of his dedication mix with the soft gasps and whimpers spilling from Toge’s lips, each one sending shivers down Yuuta’s spine.

Toge’s body tenses beneath him, his thighs trembling as his hands clutch tightly at Yuuta’s hair. His breaths become erratic, and Yuuta knows Toge is close—so close. He hums softly around Toge’s length, the vibration drawing a broken cry from him as his hips jerk weakly.

With perfect timing, just as Toge arches off the bed, his release spilling hot and sweet down Yuuta’s throat, Yuuta presses two slick fingers against Toge’s pucker and pushes in. The resistance gives way slowly, Toge’s body clenching around him instinctively as his pleasure crescendos.

Toge cries out, the sound breathless and strained, as his body jerks at the overwhelming sensations. Yuuta swallows every drop of Toge’s release, his lips still wrapped snugly around him, while his fingers slide deeper, stretching and exploring with deliberate care.

“You’re doing so good,” Yuuta murmurs softly as he pulls back slightly, his lips leaving Toge’s sensitive cock to trail kisses along his inner thighs. His fingers move carefully, curling slightly to massage the slick heat inside, and Toge’s breath hitches sharply in response.

Toge’s hands tug at Yuuta’s hair, his body squirming under the onslaught of sensation, but he doesn’t push him away. Instead, he lets out soft, needy whimpers, his lavender eyes fluttering open briefly to meet Yuuta’s. The trust and vulnerability in that gaze make Yuuta’s chest ache with affection.

“You’re incredible,” Yuuta whispers, his voice low and reverent as his fingers continue their slow, teasing rhythm. “You’re so perfect for me, Toge. I’m going to take care of you. Always.”

Toge’s head falls back against the pillow, his lips parted as he gasps for air, his body trembling as Yuuta works him open with steady, patient movements. The slick warmth clings to Yuuta’s fingers, the scent of jasmine and green tea filling the room and driving Yuuta’s instincts into overdrive.

Yuuta shifts slightly, his own hips grinding against the mattress as his need builds, but he focuses entirely on Toge. Every touch, every movement, every whispered word is for him, guiding him through the waves of pleasure and need that consume him.

Yuuta feels like his mind is spinning, like every coherent thought is slipping through his fingers as he looks down at Toge—his Toge—laid bare beneath him. Fully nude, flushed, and trembling, Toge looks utterly wrecked, his lavender eyes half-lidded and glassy as he squirms against the sheets. The sight of him like this, so vulnerable and completely at Yuuta’s mercy, makes Yuuta’s breath hitch.

He’s still fully clothed, his hoodie rumpled and hanging loosely around him, his jeans tight from the growing pressure of his own need. The contrast between them feels intoxicating, like a heady rush of power that makes Yuuta’s hands tremble slightly as he rests them on either side of Toge’s waist.

Gods, look at him.

Toge’s body shifts, his hips rolling weakly, searching for more contact, for anything Yuuta will give him. The sight alone is enough to make Yuuta’s chest tighten with an overwhelming mix of affection, desire, and pride.

This is everything I’ve ever wanted.

Omega or not, Yuuta has always wanted to be the one to make Toge feel good, to be the one to unravel him completely. He wants Toge to see stars, to come undone beneath him over and over again, his name falling from those soft lips like a prayer.

And soon... soon I’m going to give him everything.

Yuuta’s gaze trails over Toge’s body, taking in the way his chest rises and falls in shallow breaths, the sheen of sweat glistening on his skin, the way his silver hair fans out like a halo against the pillows. His throat tightens as he watches Toge arch slightly, a soft, broken sound spilling from his lips as his hips shift instinctively.

His scent fills the air from between his legs—jasmine and green tea, sweet and fresh, mingling perfectly with Yuuta’s own. It drives him mad, igniting every primal instinct he has, but he reins it in, savoring the moment, watching as Toge writhes beneath him, waiting for Yuuta to take him.

Yuuta’s lips curve into a soft, predatory smile as he imagines what’s to come. He’s going to fuck his pretty boy, claim him in every way, leave him trembling and gasping and thoroughly marked as his.

Because Toge is his.

The thought surges through Yuuta like a tidal wave, filling him with a possessiveness so deep it makes his pulse quicken. His hand slides down to brush against Toge’s flushed skin, his fingers skimming over his trembling thighs.

The idea of marking Toge, of claiming him so completely that no one could ever doubt who he belongs to, sends a jolt of heat through Yuuta’s entire body. He leans down, his lips ghosting over Toge’s ear as he whispers softly, his voice filled with promise and reverence.

“You’re mine, Toge. I’m going to make you feel so good... I’ll give you everything.”

Toge’s breath hitches, his hands reaching up to grip Yuuta’s hoodie weakly, and Yuuta smiles, soft but laced with a hunger that he can no longer deny.

Toge arches up suddenly, his trembling body pressing against Yuuta’s fully clothed one as his lips crash against Yuuta’s in a kiss that’s anything but shy. It’s desperate, needy, and when Toge’s tongue plunges into Yuuta’s mouth, Yuuta groans deeply, the sound rumbling from his chest like a growl.

The kiss is messy, wet, and frantic, but Yuuta wouldn’t trade it for anything. Toge’s hands fumble between them, tugging at Yuuta’s belt with shaky fingers, his movements frantic and uncoordinated.

Yuuta catches his wrists gently, pulling Toge’s hands away and pressing a soft kiss to his knuckles. “Let me,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice low and rough, filled with affection and heat.

He pulls back slightly, still hovering over Toge as he reaches for his belt, unfastening it with practiced ease. The clinking sound is loud in the room, a sharp contrast to Toge’s soft whimpers and panting breaths. 

One by one, Yuuta removes his clothes, every movement deliberate, never rushing. His hoodie hits the floor, followed by his shirt, and then his jeans, leaving him bare before Toge’s wide, glassy eyes.

Toge lets out a shaky breath, his gaze raking over Yuuta’s body with a hunger that makes Yuuta’s cheeks flush. Before Yuuta can settle fully, Toge wraps his legs around his waist, pulling him close with surprising strength.

Yuuta gasps softly at the contact, the heat between them searing. Toge presses his palm to Yuuta’s chest, right over his pounding heart, and begins signing, his fingers trembling slightly as they press the same word over and over.

Alpha. Alpha. Alpha.

Yuuta’s breath hitches, his heart swelling at the soundless plea. He leans down, pressing his forehead to Toge’s as he whispers, “I’m here, baby. Always. Your alpha.”

Toge’s lavender eyes flutter open, his gaze meeting Yuuta’s, glassy but burning with need. His fingers pause for a moment against Yuuta’s chest before signing something new, something that makes Yuuta’s entire body tense with anticipation.

Fuck me, Alpha.

Yuuta’s eyes widen briefly, his breath catching as Toge’s words settle over him like a match to gasoline. His hands slide down to grip Toge’s thighs, spreading him wider as he presses their foreheads together, his voice a low, reverent growl.

“Gods, Toge, you have no idea what you do to me,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice thick with emotion and desire.

Toge lets out a soft, broken whimper, his body trembling beneath Yuuta as he arches up again, pressing closer, silently begging for what he wants, what he needs.

And Yuuta? Yuuta is ready to give him everything.

He shifts his hips, pressing the thick head of his cock against Toge’s slick entrance. The heat there is overwhelming, and Yuuta groans deeply, his head falling forward as he pushes in slowly, carefully, savoring every inch.

Toge’s back arches sharply, his mouth falling open in a silent cry as his body stretches to accommodate Yuuta. His hands fly to Yuuta’s shoulders again, gripping tightly as his legs shake, his thighs quivering against Yuuta’s sides.

“Good boy,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice barely a whisper as he moves, inch by inch, until he’s fully seated inside Toge. The heat and tightness around him make his vision blur, and he stills for a moment, his hands soothing over Toge’s thighs as he lets him adjust.

Toge’s body trembles beneath him, his chest rising and falling with shallow breaths as he shifts slightly, testing the stretch. His fingers tap weakly against Yuuta’s shoulder, signing a single word against his skin: Move.

Yuuta growls low in his throat, the sound vibrating through his chest as he begins to move, his hips rolling in slow, deliberate strokes. The sensation is overwhelming, Toge’s slick warmth drawing him in deeper, and Yuuta feels his control slipping with each thrust.

“You’re perfect,” Yuuta whispers, his voice thick with emotion as he leans down to kiss Toge’s neck, his lips brushing over the swollen scent glands there. “So good for me, my Toge. My omega.”

Toge lets out a soft, broken whimper at the words, his hands tangling in Yuuta’s hair as his body rocks with each thrust. His scent intensifies, sweet and heady, driving Yuuta further into his feral instincts as his pace quickens, his hips snapping harder against Toge’s.

Yuuta’s world narrows to the sound of Toge’s breathless whimpers, the way his body moves beneath him, the way they fit together so perfectly.

Yuuta knows all too well what it’s like to endure a rut alone. The memory of it is burned into him—a raging fire coursing through his veins, his body aching with a primal need that no touch from himself could ever soothe. The frustration, the loneliness, the desperate clawing at something unattainable. He remembers the way his hands shook, how he’d grip his own skin until it ached, trying to find relief, trying to extinguish the unbearable heat, but it was never enough.

Never enough.

The thought of Toge experiencing even a fraction of that sends a wave of protectiveness crashing through Yuuta. No, he won’t let Toge suffer that kind of torment. His Toge, his perfect omega, will never know what it’s like to feel empty, to ache with unfulfilled need.

Yuuta’s resolve hardens as he looks down at Toge, trembling and flushed beneath him, his lavender eyes hazy with trust and desire. Yuuta’s heart swells with affection, his instincts roaring to life with a single purpose: to care for Toge, to fulfill every need, to ensure his heat is nothing but pure, overwhelming pleasure.

He leans down, pressing a kiss to Toge’s jaw, then to his throat, his lips soft and deliberate. He moves slowly, his touch purposeful, lavishing every inch of Toge’s body with attention. His hands slide down Toge’s sides, his thumbs brushing over the curve of his hips, grounding him as Yuuta continues his journey.

“I’m going to take care of you. Every inch of you.” Yuuta whispers against Toge’s skin, his breath warm and soothing. “You’ll never have to feel that ache, baby. I’ll make you so full, so complete, you’ll never know what it’s like to feel empty.”

Toge whimpers softly at the words, his hands finding their way to Yuuta’s shoulders, clinging to him as his body responds instinctively. Yuuta presses closer, their scents mingling in the air, intoxicating and perfect, as he lets his instincts guide him.

“You’ll feel nothing but pleasure,” Yuuta promises, his voice low and reverent. “I’ll give you everything, Toge. Always.”

Yuuta’s hips move with a relentless rhythm, his thrusts hard and fast as he loses himself completely in the heat of the moment. Toge writhes beneath him, his body trembling with each deep stroke, his nails raking down Yuuta’s back as broken whimpers spill from his lips. The slick, tight warmth around Yuuta’s cock drives him to the edge, his instincts roaring louder, drowning out all thought.

He feels it—his knot swelling, thick and insistent, locking him deeper inside Toge. His thrusts slow, each movement becoming more labored as his knot grows, stretching Toge further, eliciting a sharp gasp from the omega beneath him. Yuuta groans, his voice low and guttural as the pressure builds, his body responding to the primal need to claim, to bond, to make Toge his in every possible way.

“Gods, Toge,” Yuuta pants, his voice rough and trembling. His hips grind against Toge’s, his knot too big to pull out now, almost too big to move. The sensation is overwhelming, almost unbearable, but Yuuta leans into it.

As Yuuta’s knot swells, locking them together in the deepest, most intimate connection, a deep, primal satisfaction settles over him. His breaths are heavy, his heart pounding as he takes in Toge beneath him—flushed, trembling, and so completely his. Well… almost his.

Yuuta shifts, his hands sliding under Toge’s thighs with a firm but reverent grip. He spreads them wider, lifting them back until they’re pressed against his chest. The new position makes Toge gasp softly, his lavender eyes fluttering closed as his body adjusts to the mating press, pliant and perfect.

“You’re so perfect for me,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice rough with adoration as he leans down to press soft kisses to Toge’s trembling calves. His hands cradle the backs of Toge’s thighs, his thumbs drawing soothing circles into the heated skin.

Toge’s body arches slightly, his flushed face tilting upward as soft, needy whimpers spill from his lips. Yuuta groans low in his chest, the sound vibrating between them as he begins to roll his hips forward. The grinding motion presses his knot deeper, and Toge shudders beneath him, his lips parting in a soundless cry.

“There,” Yuuta whispers, his voice thick with affection and desire as he watches Toge’s expression shift, his eyes glassy with pleasure. “You feel that, baby? That’s me—filling you, completing you, making you mine.”

Toge’s fingers clutch weakly at Yuuta’s forearms, his nails digging in as his body reacts instinctively to every deliberate grind of Yuuta’s hips. His thighs tremble in Yuuta’s grasp, but he doesn’t resist, his trust in Yuuta absolute.

Yuuta leans forward, pressing their bodies closer, his forehead resting against Toge’s. The bond between them feels so close, so tangible, and he knows what needs to happen next. His eyes darken with lust as he shifts slightly, positioning himself over Toge’s neck, the swollen scent gland calling to him like a beacon.

“You’re mine, Toge,” Yuuta growls softly, his voice a mix of possession and reverence. His hands tighten on Toge’s thighs, holding him steady as he dips his head lower. “And I’m yours. Always.”

Without hesitation, Yuuta bites down on Toge’s scent gland, his teeth sinking into the sensitive skin. The moment their bond solidifies, it’s like an explosion of warmth and connection between them, a tether that ties their souls together irrevocably.

Toge’s body jolts beneath him, a sharp, silent cry escaping his lips as his head tilts back, exposing more of his neck. Slick floods between them, and his body tightens around Yuuta’s knot, drawing a deep, guttural groan from him.

Toge’s fingers dig into Yuuta’s shoulders, trembling as his body reacts instinctively. His hips jerk upward, pressing closer to Yuuta as a wave of pleasure crashes over him, too powerful to contain. A soft, broken whimper escapes his lips, and then his release spills out, hot and slick, painting his flushed stomach and the space between their bodies.

Yuuta holds the bite for a moment longer, his hips grinding forward instinctively as his knot pulses within Toge. When he finally releases, his tongue brushes over the mark reverently, lapping up the blood, and soothing the skin as his lips press tender kisses to the bite.

“Forever,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice soft but filled with unshakable conviction. “I’ll always take care of you, baby. I’ll never let you feel empty, never let you hurt. You’re everything to me.”

Toge’s lavender eyes flutter open, tears pooling at the corners as he gazes up at Yuuta with an expression so full of trust and affection that it takes Yuuta’s breath away.

The moment the bond solidifies, Yuuta feels it—a rush of warmth, pure and overwhelming, surging through him. It’s like stepping into sunlight after endless cold, the sheer depth of it leaving him breathless. Through the bond, Toge’s emotions flood him, bright and unfiltered: happiness, joy, trust, and a deep, profound love that radiates through the haze of his heat.

Even though Toge’s body is wracked with the primal demands of his omega instincts, the purity of his emotions shines through, filling Yuuta with a gratitude so powerful it almost makes him weep. He’s happy. He’s so happy.

Yuuta’s chest tightens as he takes it all in, the bond between them humming with life and connection. He can feel every tremble of Toge’s body, every soft pulse of his emotions, and it’s beautiful—Toge is beautiful.

“Toge,” Yuuta breathes, his voice shaking as he shifts. He lifts his hands to cup Toge’s flushed face, his thumbs brushing tenderly over his cheeks. Lavender eyes meet midnight blue, the bond between them glowing like a warm, steady flame.

Toge’s lips part slightly, his breath hitching as he gazes up at Yuuta, and Yuuta can’t hold back any longer. He leans down, capturing Toge’s mouth in a kiss that’s anything but gentle. It’s deep and consuming, filled with all the love and devotion Yuuta feels surging through the bond.

Their tongues meet, dancing and exploring with an intensity that leaves them both gasping. Toge moans softly into the kiss, his hands sliding up to tangle in Yuuta’s hair, holding him close as if he never wants to let go. Yuuta presses deeper, his hands cradling Toge’s face like he’s the most precious thing in the world—because to Yuuta, he is.

The taste of Toge is intoxicating, a sweetness that lingers on Yuuta’s lips and drives him further into the haze of his own instincts. He tilts his head, angling the kiss to deepen it even more, their breaths mingling as their connection strengthens.

Through the bond, Toge’s emotions flow freely, unrestrained. Yuuta feels the spark of Toge’s joy, the warmth of his trust, and the fierce, unyielding love that pours out of him like a flood. It’s overwhelming in the best way, and Yuuta’s heart swells with an ache that’s almost too much to bear.

As time passes, Yuuta remains locked inside Toge, his knot keeping them intimately connected as the heat of the moment begins to settle. Toge is exhausted, his body trembling faintly as he rests against Yuuta, his breaths shallow but steady. Normally, a first heat would last days—four, maybe five—but the intensity of their bond and Yuuta’s presence seems to have soothed the worst of it. The haze that once consumed Toge’s mind is beginning to drift away, leaving him soft and pliant in Yuuta’s arms.

Yuuta shifts carefully, his hands cradling Toge’s hips as he leans back against the pillows. He adjusts them until Toge is nestled snugly in his lap, his head tucked under Yuuta’s chin, their bodies still joined but comfortable. Toge’s warmth seeps into him, and though they’re both drenched in sweat and slick, Yuuta wouldn’t change a single moment of it.

He wraps his arms around Toge, holding him close, one hand stroking up and down his back in a soothing rhythm. Toge lets out a soft, contented sigh, his body relaxing further against Yuuta’s chest. Yuuta tilts his head down slightly, brushing his lips against Toge’s damp hair as his fingers trail up to gently brush it back.

The mark at Toge’s neck catches his eye, the faint indentations of Yuuta’s teeth standing out against the flushed skin. His mark. Yuuta’s heart swells with pride and affection, a warmth spreading through his chest as he leans down to press a soft kiss over the mark.

“You’re so perfect,” Yuuta whispers against Toge’s skin, his voice low and full of adoration. His hand moves up to Toge’s hair, threading his fingers through the silvery strands and kneading softly at his scalp. Toge lets out a small sound, a cross between a hum and a sigh, and Yuuta’s smile widens as he continues the soothing motion.

And then he feels it.

A small vibration against his chest, faint at first, but unmistakable. Yuuta stills for a moment, his breath catching as he realizes what it is.

Toge is purring.

The sound is soft, almost shy, but it resonates through Yuuta’s chest like the sweetest melody. His heart feels like it might burst as he looks down at Toge, who’s curled up so perfectly in his arms, his face peaceful and content.

“You’re purring,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice filled with awe and tenderness. He brushes his fingers through Toge’s hair again, eliciting another soft rumble from him, the vibration stronger now as Toge presses closer, nuzzling into Yuuta’s neck.

Yuuta chuckles softly, the sound light and full of joy as he kisses Toge’s temple. “You’re incredible, you know that?” he whispers, his arms tightening around him. “You’re everything I’ve ever wanted, Toge. Everything.”

Toge doesn’t respond verbally, but the way his body relaxes further into Yuuta, the way his soft purring grows steadier, tells Yuuta everything he needs to know.

Yuuta rests his cheek against Toge’s head, his hands continuing their gentle, soothing motions. 

As the warmth of the bond wraps around them like a cocoon, Yuuta feels Toge’s breathing even out against his chest, his small, contented purrs softening into silence. The weight of exhaustion pulls at both of them, and Yuuta presses one last kiss to Toge’s hair before letting his eyes flutter closed. Wrapped in each other’s arms, their scents mingling in the air, they drift off to sleep.

•~•~•

When Yuuta stirs awake, the soft morning light filters through the heavy curtains of the penthouse suite. He shifts slightly, the steady rise and fall of Toge’s chest pressed against him grounding him in the moment. The bond hums faintly between them, a constant reminder of their connection, and Yuuta feels a deep, profound sense of peace.

Carefully, he begins to withdraw his softened cock from Toge. The motion makes Toge stir, his body squirming slightly as a soft noise of displeasure escapes him. Yuuta chuckles softly, his hands resting on Toge’s waist to steady him as he leans down.

Pressing a gentle kiss to Toge’s cheek, Yuuta whispers, “Shh, baby, I’m here.”

Another kiss, and then another, soft and playful. Toge’s lips twitch, and when Yuuta kisses him a fourth and fifth time in rapid succession, Toge finally erupts into a burst of silent giggles, his lavender eyes crinkling with mirth.

“There’s my smile,” Yuuta says warmly, grinning as he nuzzles his nose against Toge’s.

Toge wraps his arms around Yuuta’s neck, his legs instinctively looping around Yuuta’s waist as Yuuta picks him up effortlessly. Despite their shared exhaustion, Toge clings to him, resting his head against Yuuta’s shoulder as they make their way to the bathroom.

Yuuta sets Toge down carefully in the spacious shower, turning on the water and adjusting it to a warm, soothing temperature. The gentle spray begins to wash away the remnants of their shared night, and Yuuta presses a quick kiss to Toge’s temple before stepping out.

“I’ll be right back,” Yuuta promises, his voice light and filled with affection.

Toge watches him leave, his cheeks flushed but his expression content.

•~•~•

Yuuta wraps a towel around his waist before heading to the door. When room service arrives with a bundle of fresh fabrics, he accepts them with a polite nod, completely unbothered by his state of undress. The attendant’s face reddens slightly as Yuuta signs the receipt, but he barely notices, his mind focused entirely on Toge.

With practiced ease, Yuuta strips the bed of its soiled linens, bundling them neatly in the corner before spreading the crisp, clean sheets over the mattress. The scent of lavender fills the room, and Yuuta smiles to himself, satisfied.

Returning to the bathroom, Yuuta steps into the warm steam of the shower, his hands finding Toge’s waist immediately. He presses soft kisses along the back of Toge’s neck, his lips lingering as his arms wrap securely around him.

“Miss me?” Yuuta murmurs against Toge’s damp skin, his voice teasing but tender.

Toge leans back into him, his hands resting lightly over Yuuta’s, and tilts his head to give Yuuta better access.

“Good,” Yuuta whispers, his kisses trailing down to Toge’s shoulder. “Because I’m never leaving your side.”

Toge hums softly, the sound vibrating through him as they stand under the soothing spray of water, their bond thrumming with contentment. 

Toge turns slowly in the shower, the warm water cascading over his silvery hair and flushed cheeks. His lavender eyes meet Yuuta’s, shy but filled with a quiet determination as his hands come up to sign, I never gave you your birthday present, Yuuta.

Yuuta chuckles softly, his grin warm and teasing. “I think I got something better than any gift—”

His words are cut off with a sharp gasp as Toge suddenly drops to his knees in one fluid motion, the movement graceful despite the water pooling around him. Yuuta’s breath catches as Toge’s hands settle on his hips, steadying himself, before he leans forward and presses a deliberate kiss to the tip of Yuuta’s cock.

“Toge—” Yuuta chokes out, his voice rough, but the words die on his lips when Toge’s tongue swirls around the head of his length, teasing and purposeful. Yuuta’s hands fly to the tiled wall behind him, his palm bracing him as his head tilts back, his eyes fluttering closed at the sudden rush of pleasure.

Toge is anything but hesitant, his hands gripping Yuuta’s hips as he takes him deeper, swallowing him down with a smooth, practiced motion. The heat of Toge’s mouth is searing, the pressure perfect as his tongue moves skillfully along the underside of Yuuta’s cock.

Yuuta lets out a guttural moan, his other hand instinctively sliding into Toge’s wet hair, threading through the damp strands as he tries to steady himself. “Toge, gods, wait—” he groans, his words half-hearted as his body shudders under the onslaught of sensation.

Toge doesn’t wait. If anything, his movements grow more confident, his lavender eyes glancing up to meet Yuuta’s midnight blue's as he takes him even deeper, his throat relaxing to accommodate the length. The sight alone is enough to make Yuuta’s knees feel weak, his breath hitching as a low growl escapes him.

“You’re—” Yuuta’s voice falters as Toge pulls back slightly, his tongue swirling around the tip again before taking him back down, his cheeks hollowing with the effort. “Toge, baby, you’re— gods, you’re incredible.”

The warm water from the shower streams over them both, adding to the heat that fills the air. Toge’s fingers flex against Yuuta’s hips, holding him steady as he works him with deliberate precision, his lips and tongue moving in perfect rhythm.

Yuuta’s breathing grows ragged, his chest heaving as pleasure builds in his core, threatening to consume him entirely. His grip on Toge’s hair tightens slightly, though his movements remain gentle, his hips trembling as he fights the urge to thrust deeper into Toge’s mouth.

“Toge,” Yuuta rasps, his voice trembling as he looks down at the omega kneeling before him, utterly devoted, utterly beautiful. “You’re going to—”

Toge hums softly around him, the vibration sending a shockwave of pleasure through Yuuta’s body. The sound draws a deep groan from Yuuta, his knees threatening to give out as the pleasure crests higher and higher.

Toge pulls back just enough to breathe, his lips glistening and swollen as he looks up at Yuuta, his expression mischievous yet full of love. He flicks his tongue over the tip again, drawing a sharp inhale from Yuuta, before taking him fully once more, determined to bring him to the edge and beyond.

Yuuta’s hand presses against the wall, his head falling forward as he gasps, his body trembling uncontrollably. “Toge—” he groans, his voice breaking as the waves of pleasure crash over him, leaving him utterly undone in Toge’s hands—and mouth.

Yuuta’s grip on the tiled wall falters, his fingers slipping against the slick surface as his legs tremble beneath him. His breath catches, his entire body overwhelmed by the intensity of his climax. He only manages to stay upright because of Toge’s firm grip on his thighs, grounding him, holding him steady with a strength that surprises him even in his haze.

A low, broken moan escapes Yuuta’s throat as he spills into Toge’s mouth, his release hitting hard and fast. Toge doesn’t falter, his lips sealing tightly around Yuuta’s cock as he swallows every drop, his throat working rhythmically with each pulse.

“Toge,” Yuuta gasps, his voice shaking as his head falls back, the edges of his vision blurring from the intensity of the moment. “Gods, Toge, you’re—”

But Toge isn’t done. Even as Yuuta’s cock begins to soften, Toge continues to suckle gently, his tongue swirling over the sensitive tip. The overstimulation makes Yuuta shudder, his body jerking slightly as his knees threaten to buckle again.

“Toge, baby—” Yuuta breathes, his voice hoarse and unsteady as his hand slips from the wall to Toge’s damp hair, threading weakly through the silver strands. “Too much—you're going to kill me.”

Toge finally pulls back, his lips red and glistening as he looks up at Yuuta with a playful glint in his eyes. He licks his lips slowly, savoring the taste, before his hands slide up Yuuta’s trembling thighs in a reassuring gesture.

Yuuta’s chest heaves as he tries to catch his breath, his heart pounding against his ribcage. “You’re so perfect,” he murmurs, his voice a mixture of awe and adoration as he looks down at Toge, who remains kneeling, his head tilted up to meet Yuuta’s gaze.

Toge’s lips curl into a small, satisfied smile, and he signs with one hand, Happy birthday.

Yuuta lets out a soft laugh, the sound warm and full of affection as he shifts, sliding his hand under Toge’s arm and gently pulling him to his feet. Toge stumbles slightly, but Yuuta steadies him easily, wrapping his arms around him in a tight, grounding embrace.

“You’re unbelievable,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice thick with emotion as he holds Toge close, his chin resting lightly on Toge’s silver hair. He pulls back just enough to cup Toge’s face, tilting it up so their eyes meet.

“And perfect,” Yuuta says softly, leaning down to press a lingering kiss to Toge’s forehead. “Absolutely perfect.”

Toge’s cheeks flush, a shy smile curving his lips as he leans into Yuuta’s touch, his lavender eyes filled with quiet affection. Yuuta can feel the warmth of their bond thrumming steadily between them, solid and unshakable, and he knows, without a doubt, that Toge is everything he’s ever wanted.

Yuuta cups Toge’s face with both hands, brushing his thumbs over his flushed cheeks as he leans in, pressing their foreheads together. “I love you, so so much,” he whispers, his voice steady and sure.

Toge’s lips part slightly, his eyes shining with unspoken emotion as he raises his hand to sign, I love you, too.

Yuuta smiles, his chest swelling with happiness as he presses a soft, lingering kiss to Toge’s lips.

The warm water cascades over them, filling the air with steam as Yuuta reaches for the small bottles of soap provided by the hotel. He lathers the soap between his hands, the slick foam building quickly before he gently places his hands on Toge’s shoulders.

“Let me,” Yuuta murmurs softly, his voice warm and filled with affection.

Toge tilts his head, his lavender eyes fluttering half-closed as Yuuta’s hands begin to move. The soap glides easily over his skin, Yuuta’s palms pressing lightly into his shoulders before trailing down his arms. He’s deliberate, taking his time to enjoy the soft texture of Toge’s skin under his fingers.

“You’re so beautiful,” Yuuta murmurs, leaning in to press a soft kiss to Toge’s temple as his hands move lower, circling around Toge’s waist and sliding across his stomach with deliberate, soothing motions. The gentle pressure eases the soreness lingering in Toge’s muscles from the frantic rhythm of his heat, drawing a soft hum from his lips. Toge leans into Yuuta’s touch, his body pliant and trusting, grateful for the quiet comfort Yuuta provides.

When Toge is clean, Yuuta grabs the shampoo and works it into a thick lather, his fingers massaging gently into Toge’s scalp. Toge’s eyes close fully this time, his head tilting forward as he melts under Yuuta’s touch.

“Good?” Yuuta says softly, his thumbs circling behind Toge’s ears.

Toge hums again, a small, contented smile tugging at his lips as the tension in his body melts away.

Once Toge’s hair is rinsed clean, Yuuta turns his attention to himself. He quickly soaps up his own body, though he can’t help but chuckle as Toge’s hands reach out, tentative but insistent, helping him scrub his shoulders.

“You’re supposed to be relaxing,” Yuuta teases, but he doesn’t stop Toge, letting him take his time as they wash together.

Toge shakes his head, his fingers signing quickly with a soft but insistent look, But it’s your birthday!

Yuuta freezes for a moment, his blue eyes widening slightly before a laugh bubbles up in his chest. He turns to face Toge fully, his hands moving to cup Toge’s cheeks as he grins down at him. “You’re too good to me, you know that?”

Toge beams up at him, his lavender eyes sparkling with affection as his hands settle on Yuuta’s chest, his fingers brushing lightly over his skin.

Yuuta leans down, pressing a tender kiss to Toge’s forehead. “Alright, then,” he murmurs, his voice soft but playful. “But only because you’re so convincing.”

They work together, washing and rinsing under the warm spray, their movements unhurried and filled with quiet intimacy. When they’re finally finished, Yuuta pulls Toge back into his arms, wrapping him in a protective embrace as the water washes over them.

After the shower, the lingering warmth of the steam still clinging to their skin, Yuuta and Toge find the hotel-branded sweats and t-shirts folded neatly on the edge of the bed alongside the fresh sheets. The soft, oversized fabric feels comforting against their clean skin as they slip into the matching gray sets, the subtle hotel logo embroidered on the chest.

Yuuta spreads the new sheets over the mattress, his hands smoothing out the fabric with practiced ease before tossing the soiled linens into the corner. Once the bed is made, they climb in together, settling into an easy, familiar intimacy.

The sunlight filters gently through the curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. It’s morning, but it’s the weekend, and neither of them have anywhere to be. The day stretches ahead of them, unhurried and peaceful.

Yuuta leans back against the pillows, his body relaxed but his arm securely wrapped around Toge’s waist. Toge snuggles close, his head resting on Yuuta’s chest, his silvery hair brushing against Yuuta’s chin as he lets out a soft, contented sigh. The steady rhythm of Yuuta’s heartbeat in his ear is soothing, grounding him in the warmth of the moment.

In his free hand, Yuuta holds his phone, the screen lighting up with a string of notifications. Among the usual texts and updates, a series of messages from Satoru catches his attention.

The Inumaki’s called, where are you?
Are you alright?
(2 missed calls)
Ahh, I see where you are
Be safe!!!
It’s about time.

Yuuta huffs a quiet laugh, tilting the phone slightly so Toge can see the screen. “Looks like Satoru’s been keeping tabs on us,” he murmurs, his voice warm with amusement.

Toge shifts slightly, his  eyes flicking to the messages before he lets out a soundless chuckle, his shoulders shaking softly against Yuuta’s chest. His fingers tap lightly over Yuuta’s heart, a silent response that makes Yuuta’s smile widen.

“Well, at least he’s consistent,” Yuuta says, locking the phone and setting it on the nightstand. He turns his full attention to Toge, his arm tightening around his waist as he presses a gentle kiss to the top of Toge’s head.

Toge hums softly, his body melting further into Yuuta’s as the quiet intimacy of the moment wraps around them. Yuuta’s fingers trace soothing patterns along Toge’s back, occasionally brushing through his silvery hair, the soft strands slipping easily between his fingers.

There’s no rush, no urgency—just the quiet comfort of being together, the hum of their bond steady and warm, filling the space between them with love and contentment.

Yuuta’s fingers trail along Toge’s back, drawing soft, aimless patterns, and his thoughts wander. He’s quiet for a long moment before he finally speaks, his voice gentle but trembling with vulnerability.

“Toge,” he begins, his hand stilling against Toge’s back. He feels the slight shift as Toge tilts his head, listening.

“There’s something I need to tell you,” Yuuta continues, his voice barely above a whisper.

“I don’t just love you because I’m an alpha… I’ve loved you for so long,” Yuuta says. “I think I’ve loved you since we were kids. I just… I didn’t know how to say it. Or if you’d feel the same.”

Toge’s eyes widen slightly, a soft flush blooming across his cheeks as he stares at Yuuta. The bond between them hums faintly, steady and reassuring, but Toge’s expression is unreadable.

Then, slowly, Toge reaches up, his fingers trembling slightly as he signs, You’ve always been my everything.

Yuuta swallows, a faint flush spreading across his cheeks as he presses on. “I’ve wanted to tell you for so long. But every time I tried, I’d think about what would happen if you didn’t feel the same. I couldn’t risk losing you, Toge. I couldn’t risk us.”

Yuuta’s breath catches, his chest tightening as he watches the words form so deliberately, so beautifully. Toge’s hands lower, resting lightly over Yuuta’s heart as he continues, I’ve loved you for years too. I didn’t think… I didn’t think you’d ever love me back.

Yuuta’s breath catches, his heart pounding as he watches Toge’s hands move with quiet grace. “Toge,” he murmurs, cupping Toge’s face gently with both hands. “How could I not? You’re everything to me. You always have been.”

Yuuta’s eyes glisten with unshed tears as a small, soft smile spreads across his lips. Yuuta leans in, pressing their foreheads together, his thumb brushing gently over Toge’s cheek.

“I was just scared,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice trembling slightly. “Scared that I’d ruin what we had, that I’d lose you.”

Toge shakes his head quickly, his hands coming up again to sign, You could never lose me. I’ve always been yours.

“I wanted to tell you so many times,” Yuuta whispers, his voice thick with emotion. “That day at the festival… I wanted to tell you then. You looked so happy, so beautiful, and I thought maybe… maybe you could feel it too. But I was scared.”

For a moment, Toge is silent, his expression softening as his mind drifts. His gaze flickers slightly, memories from years ago bubbling to the surface.

Toge’s chest tightens as he remembers the way he’d felt that night. The way Yuuta had smiled at him, so soft and full of affection. The way it had felt like everything he had ever wanted, even if they never called it a date, even if neither of them had said it out loud. He could feel Yuuta’s love that day.

Toge’s eyes well up as he signs again, his hands trembling slightly, I felt it. That day, I felt it. You were holding my hand, buying me things, just… loving me. I felt it, Yuuta. I’ve always felt it. I just… didn’t know if it was real, or if it was all in my head.

Yuuta lets out a shaky laugh, his chest tight as he pulls Toge closer, pressing a lingering kiss to his forehead. “You’ve been so patient, you know that?” he murmurs, his voice filled with awe.

Toge huffs a small laugh, flicking his fingers against Yuuta’s forehead as he signs with playful affection, Yeah, it sure took you long enough.

Yuuta chuckles, the sound warm and full of love as he presses another kiss to Toge’s temple. “Yeah,” he admits, his voice soft and full of fondness. “I guess I deserve that.”

Toge shifts, his slender body moving with fluid grace as he pushes himself up on the bed. The soft light of the morning glints off his silvery hair as he swings one leg over Yuuta’s waist, settling down to straddle him. His hands come up, cupping Yuuta’s face with a gentleness that makes Yuuta’s heart ache.

Yuuta’s eyes widen slightly, his breath catching as he gazes up at Toge. The soft expression on Toge’s face, the way his lavender eyes shimmer with so much affection, steals every word from Yuuta’s lips.

“But now,” Yuuta begins, his voice trembling slightly, “now I get to tell you as many times as I want.”

Toge tilts his head, his lips twitching with anticipation.

“I love you, Toge,” Yuuta says, his voice steady and full of reverence.

Toge’s expression softens further, and his lips curl into a big, heartfelt grin that lights up his entire face. His thumb brushes tenderly along Yuuta’s cheek, catching a tear that slips free before it can trail any farther.

Yuuta smiles up at him, his chest swelling with emotion. “I love you,” he says again, the words spilling from him like they’ve been waiting years to be spoken.

Toge’s thumb stills against Yuuta’s skin, his grin never faltering as he leans in slightly, their faces close, their breaths mingling.

“I love you,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice soft, almost reverent, as Toge leans down. Their lips brush together in the lightest of kisses, a fleeting touch that carries with it all the love and devotion they’ve both held back for so long.

Toge hums softly against Yuuta’s lips, his hands sliding from Yuuta’s face to rest against his shoulders. Yuuta’s hands move instinctively to Toge’s waist, holding him gently as he deepens the kiss, slow and tender.

The bond between them thrums with warmth, a steady pulse that wraps around them as they lose themselves in the quiet intimacy of the moment. Each touch, each kiss, is a promise—a vow that they’ll never hold back again, that they’ll always be each other’s.

When they finally pull back, their foreheads rest together, their breaths mingling as they share a soft laugh.

“I’ll never get tired of telling you,” Yuuta whispers, his thumbs tracing small circles against Toge’s hips.

Toge grins again, his eyes crinkling with joy as he taps a finger against Yuuta’s nose, before signing with playful affection, Good. Because I’ll never get tired of hearing it.

Yuuta chuckles, his arms wrapping securely around Toge’s waist as he presses a kiss to the corner of his mouth. “Good,” he murmurs, pulling Toge close as the golden morning light wraps them in its embrace, their love finally spoken and fully shared.

LATER THAT YEAR

The Gojo Estate is alive with the festive buzz of its annual Christmas party. The mansion is dressed to the nines, with garlands of twinkling lights draped over every archway, a towering evergreen tree dominating the main hall, and the warm glow of candles and fireplaces filling every room. The air smells of pine, spiced cider, and freshly baked pastries, mingling with the soft hum of conversation and laughter.

The room quiets as Satoru Gojo steps onto a small platform in the main hall, the festive lights casting a soft glow over his pristine white suit. With his signature sunglasses perched on his nose and an easy grin lighting up his face, he holds up a glass of sparkling champagne, commanding the attention of everyone present.

“Good evening, everyone,” he begins, his tone effortlessly warm yet charismatic. “First, let me just say how incredible it is to see all of you here tonight. The Gojo Estate has always been a place of celebration, and during the holidays, it truly shines—almost as brightly as me.”

A soft ripple of laughter moves through the crowd, and Satoru lets it settle before continuing.

“This year has been one of growth and achievement, and while I could spend hours talking about my own brilliance—” he pauses dramatically, eliciting a few chuckles, “—tonight, I want to shine the spotlight on someone else. My ward, my dear cousin, Yuuta Okkotsu.”

He gestures toward Yuuta, who stands near the center of the room, his cheeks tinged pink as he ducks his head modestly.

“Yuuta has gone above and beyond this year. Not only has he excelled in his studies, maintaining top marks and proving that brains and charm can coexist,” Satoru teases lightly, “but he’s also achieved incredible success in his kendo journey, with some truly prestigious wins under his belt.”

There’s a smattering of applause and murmurs of admiration, and Yuuta rubs the back of his neck, clearly embarrassed but grateful.

“And if that wasn’t enough,” Satoru continues, his tone softening slightly, “Yuuta has also stepped up for the Gojo clan in ways that make me incredibly proud. Taking on more responsibility isn’t easy, especially for someone so young, but Yuuta has handled it with grace, strength, and unwavering dedication. You’ve earned this recognition, Yuuta.”

Satoru raises his glass toward Yuuta, prompting a round of applause from the room.

“Now,” Satoru says, shifting his attention back to the crowd, “I wouldn’t have been able to host this event without the incredible support of those close to me. A huge thank you to all who helped, but especially to Suguru.”

His gaze flicks to Suguru, standing off to the side with his usual composed demeanor, a small smile on his lips.

“Suguru, you’ve been my partner in crime—not just for this party but for everything we tackle together. Your hard work and your ability to keep things running smoothly, even when I’m a little… distracted—” he pauses, earning a knowing chuckle from the room, “—is something I’ll always be grateful for. Thank you.”

Suguru dips his head slightly in acknowledgment, his calm smile growing just a touch warmer.

“Now,” Satoru continues, lifting his glass again, “tonight is about celebration, connection, and, most importantly, fun. I want every single one of you to have an incredible time. Eat, drink, dance, and make memories that will last until next year’s party—because, of course, next year will be even better.”

He grins mischievously, his voice dropping slightly in mock seriousness. “And, for the record, this time, we made sure to lock the doors to keep any drunkards out.”

The room erupts in laughter, the mood light and joyful as Satoru winks playfully at the crowd.

“To family, to friends, and to the amazing year ahead. Cheers!”

“Cheers!” the crowd echoes, lifting their glasses high as the festivities resume with renewed energy

•~•~•

Yuuta stands by the refreshment table, his tailored black suit accentuating his broad shoulders. A navy blue tie adds a subtle festive touch, and his eyes scan the crowd until they settle on Toge.

Toge is near the hearth in the main room, the firelight making his silver hair glimmer. He’s dressed in a sharp charcoal-gray suit, tailored perfectly to his slender frame, with a pale lavender shirt underneath, the first few buttons undone to showcase a beautiful matching choker. He stands with Maki and Nobara, who are animatedly gesturing and laughing. Toge is laughing along with them, his hands signing something quick and teasing that makes Nobara double over with mirth.

Yuuta’s chest swells with warmth as he watches. Toge’s happiness radiates through the room, but it’s more than that—Yuuta can feel it, a soft pulse of love and contentment thrumming through their bond.

“Enjoying the view?”

Satoru’s teasing voice pulls Yuuta out of his thoughts. Yuuta glances over to see his cousin standing beside him, dressed in a pristine white suit that seems to glow under the lights.

“Always,” Yuuta replies, his lips curving into a soft smile as he looks back at Toge.

Satoru follows Yuuta’s gaze, tilting his head slightly. “He’s happy,” Satoru says, his tone uncharacteristically soft. “Happier than I’ve ever seen him.”

Yuuta feels a flicker of resonance through their bond, a warm thrum of affection and curiosity reaching out to him. “He makes me happy too,” Yuuta murmurs, and the bond pulses again, more insistent this time.

Across the room, Toge glances up, his lavender eyes scanning instinctively. He doesn’t have to look far—he locks onto Yuuta immediately, as though drawn by an invisible string. Warmth and love flow through the bond like a heartbeat, steady and strong.

Yuuta grins and raises a hand to his lips, blowing Toge a kiss from across the room. The gesture is playful, but the love behind it is unmistakable.

Toge’s cheeks flush the prettiest pink, his lips curving into a shy but radiant smile.

Next to him, Maki snorts, curling into Nobara’s shoulder as she pretends to gag. “Gross,” she mutters, loud enough for Toge to see her exaggerated reaction.

Nobara, however, grins mischievously. “I think it’s cute,” she says, leaning into Maki with a wink.

Toge huffs a silent laugh, his hands flicking a quick response to Maki: Jealous much?

Maki doesn’t miss a beat, smirking as she crosses her arms. “The only thing I’m jealous of is that Yuuta got to punch my cousin in the face,” she says dryly. “Has he shown you the video yet? I snagged it from my dad earlier before Naobito ‘accidentally’ wiped the system.”

Toge’s eyebrows shoot up in surprise, his eyes sparkling with curiosity. He tilts his head slightly, signing, There’s a video?

“Oh, yeah,” Maki replies, already digging into her bag. “It’s gold. The way Yuuta tackles Naoya—" she lets out a satisfied huff, “chef’s kiss. You’re going to love it.”

Nobara leans in eagerly, her eyes wide with excitement. “Wait, wait, I want to see too! Did he actually knock him out?”

“Practically, and with only one swing, too! He had to do his family exiled walk of shame with a black eye and busted lip.” Maki says with a smirk, her fingers fishing through her bag. “Hold on, it’s in here somewhere—”

She’s still rummaging when Yuuta steps through the crowd, his presence magnetic even in the festive chaos. His midnight blue eyes are locked on Toge, his expression soft but purposeful as he closes the distance between them.

“Toge,” Yuuta says, his voice warm and steady as he stops just in front of him. He extends a hand, bowing slightly with a playful grin. “May I have this dance?”

Toge blinks up at him, his cheeks flushing faintly as the corners of his lips curl into a smile. The bag forgotten, Maki groans dramatically and mutters, “Of course he picks now,” though there’s an unmistakable smirk tugging at her mouth as she elbows Nobara.

Nobara stifles a laugh, whispering, “They’re so cute it’s disgusting.”

Toge ignores them, his focus entirely on Yuuta as he places his hand in Yuuta’s, standing gracefully.

As Yuuta leads Toge to the dance floor, the hum of conversation softens, and the soft strains of a romantic melody fill the air. Yuuta pulls Toge close, his hand settling on Toge’s waist while their other hands remain intertwined.

“You’re beautiful,” Yuuta murmurs, his voice low and filled with affection as they sway together.

Toge raises an eyebrow, signing with one hand, You’ve told me that three times already tonight.

“Not enough,” Yuuta replies, his grin widening as he leans down, pressing their lips together in a chaste kiss.

“Never enough.”

•~•~•

As the evening winds down, the festive energy softens into a warm, contented hum. The grand hall glows with twinkling lights, casting a cozy ambiance over the remaining guests. Laughter and soft chatter echo through the rooms as groups gather for final conversations, lingering over dessert and warm drinks.

Yuuta stays close to Toge, his hands never straying far. Whether it’s a casual brush of fingers as they walk side by side, or his hand resting lightly on Toge’s lower back while they talk with friends, Yuuta’s touch is a constant. It’s subtle but intentional, a quiet reassurance that he’s there, always.

Maki and Nobara drag them into a group photo near the enormous Christmas tree. Yuuta stands behind Toge, his arms loosely draped over his shoulders as Toge leans back into him. The camera flashes, capturing their quiet smiles and the warmth in their eyes.

“Another one!” Nobara insists, tugging at Maki’s arm to get her to smile more naturally. This time, Yuuta tilts his head down to nuzzle Toge’s temple, and Toge’s silent laugh lights up the frame.

The photos keep coming—Gojo photobombing a candid moment, Yuuji and Toge pulling Yuuta and Megumi into a goofy pose, and one where Toge is caught mid-laugh, his eyes sparkling as Yuuta looks at him with a grin that could light up the room. Each snapshot captures the joy and warmth of the night, a tangible memory to keep forever.

The night stretches on, but the energy grows softer, more intimate. Yuuta and Toge find themselves near the fire in the sitting room, Toge tucked under Yuuta’s arm as they share a quiet moment. The bond between them hums gently, a warm, steady presence that wraps around them as securely as Yuuta’s arm around Toge’s shoulders.

“You ready to go home?” Yuuta murmurs, his voice soft but filled with affection as he brushes his lips against the top of Toge’s head.

Toge tilts his head back slightly, his lavender eyes meeting Yuuta’s with a gentle smile. He raises his hands, signing, Home sounds perfect.

Yuuta grins, his heart swelling as he leans down to press a tender kiss to Toge’s forehead. “Then let’s go.”

They walk through the grand hall together, their fingers intertwined as the glow of the Christmas tree lights reflects in their eyes. Satoru catches them on their way out, his grin mischievous as always. 

Before they leave, Satoru insists on one last group photo by the enormous Christmas tree. The tree’s twinkling lights cast a warm glow over the scene as everyone begins to gather, jostling for space and laughing as they figure out where to stand.

“Alright, everyone, move in closer! We’re not leaving until we’ve got this perfect,” Satoru declares, waving his arms dramatically as if directing a masterpiece.

Yuuta and Toge find their spot near the front, with Yuuta’s hand resting securely on Toge’s waist, keeping him close. Their parents stand proudly behind them, Toge’s mother adjusting her scarf while his father gives a small smile. Yuuta’s parents exchange amused glances as they stand beside Suguru, who leans casually against Satoru, his hand lightly resting on Satoru’s shoulder.

“Don’t block my face, Suguru!” Satoru complains, nudging him with a grin.

“Your face is impossible to block, Satoru,” Suguru replies dryly, his smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

The camera timer begins to count down, and the group shifts slightly, leaning closer together. At the last second, Satoru strikes an exaggerated pose, and someone shouts, “Smile!”

The flash captures the moment perfectly: Yuuta’s soft grin as he looks down at Toge, who leans slightly into his chest, a content smile on his lips. Their parents stand tall and proud behind them, their warmth evident in the way they glance at their children. Satoru’s over-the-top pose contrasts hilariously with Suguru’s relaxed smirk, and the entire scene radiates the love, laughter, and joy of the evening.

After the flash, everyone relaxes, laughter bubbling up as they look at the camera’s screen to review the shot.

“It’s perfect,” Yuuta says softly.

•~•~•

The drive back to Toge’s house is quiet, the soft hum of the car engine blending with the stillness of the night. Outside, the streets are lined with twinkling lights, a faint reminder of the festivities they’ve just left behind. Inside the car, their hands remain intertwined, a silent promise exchanged between them with every gentle squeeze.

When they pull up to Toge’s home, the porch light glows warmly, casting a soft halo over the door. Yuuta helps Toge out of the car, their steps slow and easy as they make their way inside. The familiar scent of home greets them—a mix of lavender, chamomile, and the faintest hint of pine from the wreath hanging on the door.

Toge closes the door behind them, his eyes glimmering with a quiet contentment as he watches Yuuta shrug off his jacket and place it neatly by the door. Yuuta glances back at him, his lips curling into a soft smile that makes Toge’s chest ache in the best way.

“Ready for bed?” Yuuta asks gently, his voice low but warm.

Toge nods, raising his hands to sign, Your nest awaits.

Yuuta chuckles, his cheeks flushing slightly as he follows Toge down the familiar hallway to his bedroom. The soft glow of the bedside lamp spills into the room as Toge pushes the door open, casting the space in a warm, golden light. In the corner, Toge’s nest sits like an inviting sanctuary—a haven of blankets, pillows, and the mingled scents of their bond. It’s warm, familiar, and utterly theirs.

Yuuta fidgets with his tie, his fingers clumsily working at the knot as he glances around the room. “I always forget how tricky these things are,” he mutters with a sheepish laugh. But before he can loosen it, Toge steps forward, his lavender eyes sparkling with mischief.

Toge’s hand closes around the tie, tugging firmly and pulling Yuuta down toward him. Yuuta stumbles slightly, caught off guard, and before he can say anything, Toge presses their lips together in a kiss—soft, insistent, and full of affection.

Yuuta’s initial surprise melts away in an instant, his hands instinctively finding Toge’s waist as he leans into the kiss, his chest rumbles with pleasure. The tie hangs forgotten between them, Toge’s grip on it loosening as his free hand slides up to cup Yuuta’s jaw. The kiss deepens, slow and unhurried, and Yuuta feels the tension of the evening fade away completely.

When they finally pull apart, Toge’s lips curl into a grin, his cheeks flushed. He flicks the tie playfully before letting it drop, his hands moving to his own suit jacket to shrug it off.

Yuuta huffs a laugh, shaking his head as he murmurs, “You’re impossible, you know that?” But his voice is filled with nothing but warmth as he begins unbuttoning his shirt, the soft fabric slipping from his shoulders as he steps out of his trousers. He grabs a pair of sweatpants folded neatly on the chair, tugging them on with a sigh of relief.

Toge, meanwhile, slips out of his suit with practiced ease, his fingers trailing over the lavender shirt he had worn—the one that matched his eyes so perfectly. He folds it neatly before rummaging through a drawer, pulling out one of Yuuta’s oversized t-shirts. He slips it on, the fabric draping over his smaller frame, soft and worn with the distinct scent of Yuuta clinging to it. Toge inhales deeply, his expression content as he lets out a soft, satisfied sigh.

Yuuta watches him, his heart swelling at the sight. “You look better in that shirt than I do,” he teases lightly, his eyes glinting with affection.

Toge glances up, his cheeks tinged pink, but he doesn’t respond, instead climbing into the nest and settling into the familiar comfort. He pats the spot beside him.

Yuuta doesn’t need to be told twice. He crosses the room, slipping into the nest beside Toge, the warmth of their bond wrapping around them like a blanket. As they settle against each other, the world outside fades away.

“This,” Yuuta murmurs, pressing a soft kiss to the back of Toge’s head, “this is perfect. This might be one of my favourite places.”

Toge hums softly as his body rumbles a soft purr, his hands resting over Yuuta’s, his fingers tracing idle patterns against his skin. 

Toge shifts slightly, turning in Yuuta’s arms to face him. His lavender eyes glimmer with affection as he lifts a hand to sign, You’re my favorite place, Yuuta.

Yuuta’s chest tightens, and he leans in to press a lingering kiss to Toge’s forehead, the warmth of their nest wrapping around them like a second bond. “And you’re mine.”

Always ♡