Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Will

The music pulses, the beats reverberating through the walls of the frat house, while laughter and chatter flood the air. Will Tomlinson stands off to the side, a bit apart from the crowd, nursing a drink he doesn’t care much for. He’s been to plenty of parties like this—where the alphas throw their weight around, and the omegas fawn over them. Nothing new.

He’s watching the chaos unfold when he hears a voice—a familiar voice, full of charm and confidence—drift over the noise.

“Mate, I’m telling you, it’s gonna happen,” Harry Styles says, his words carrying through the crowd like he’s making a promise.

Will doesn’t need to look to know who it is. Harry’s presence is enough. He’s the kind of alpha who commands attention, with that grin and those green eyes that never seem to miss a thing.

“Both of them. By the end of the month. You’ll see,” Harry continues, and Will feels a strange mix of irritation and disbelief twist in his gut.

“Both of the Tomlinson twins?” someone else asks, the tone skeptical but intrigued.

“Yeah, both.” Harry’s voice is full of cocky confidence. “No one thinks I can do it. Get them both in my bed. But I will. I’m not just any alpha.”

Will feels his grip tighten around his cup, a sharp edge of anger forming in his chest. The bet—Harry thinks he can just win over Louis and him, like it’s some kind of game. He can’t let it slide. It’s not how things work with him and Louis.

His twin isn’t some easy target to conquer and neither is he. Harry’s about to learn that the hard way.

***

Will is just finishing off a small joint Zayn had slipped him earlier that day when Harry steps onto the porch of the frat house, standing just a few feet away.

He barely spares the alpha a glance before looking away, already knowing how this is going to play out. Sure enough, Harry sidles up beside him, leaning against the porch bannister like he owns the place.

Will raises an unimpressed brow, and Harry just smirks. “Will, right?”

“Last time I checked,” Will deadpans, flicking the remains of his spliff into the grass.

Harry laughs, easy and self-assured. “You and Louis really do look exactly alike.”

“They don’t call us identical twins for nothing,” Will replies dryly, rolling his eyes. He can’t even pretend to flirt after overhearing Harry’s little bet.

“I guess you’re right,” Harry chuckles. “How about I grab you a drink, and then maybe we take this back to my room? Got the best one in the whole frat—biggest, softest bed.”

Will scoffs. “Cut the shit, Styles.”

Harry feigns innocence, furrowing his brows. “What do you mean?”

“I mean, I overheard your little chat with your knothead friends.” Will tilts his head, eyes sharp. “You work fast for someone who apparently has until the end of the month to fuck me and my brother.”

Harry’s smirk doesn’t falter. If anything, it deepens. “Oh, come on, Will,” he drawls. “It’s not like that. Just a joke—something to get the guys going. You know how us alphas are.”

Will crosses his arms. “And you expect me to believe that?”

Harry grins, rubbing the back of his neck in a way that’s almost—almost—sheepish. “Yes?”

Will rolls his eyes. “Me and my brother aren’t just another notch in your belt. If you think we’re that easy, you’ve got another thing coming.”

“I don’t know,” Harry muses, stepping closer, voice dropping lower. “Never met an omega who could resist me. They always cave eventually.”

Will snorts. “I can’t imagine why.”

“Maybe it’s my charm,” Harry smirks. “Or my devastatingly good looks. Or maybe it’s my big—”

Will cuts him off with a laugh. “Yeah, I don’t think it’s any of those things. Maybe you just annoy them into sleeping with you out of pity?”

Harry clutches his chest dramatically. “You wound me, omega. Guess I’ll just have to prove you wrong.” His smirk returns, slow and deliberate. “After all, I do plan on winning this bet.”

Will’s brows lift. “Oh? So you admit it’s not just a joke?”

“Of course it’s not,” Harry laughs. “What’s the fun in that?”

“And what do you get if you win?”

“Hundred bucks and no chores around the frat for two months,” Harry says, grinning like that’s an incredible deal.

Will scoffs. “Wow. Nice to know exactly how little our asses are worth.”

Harry shrugs, completely unbothered. “They’re nice asses, though. So at least there’s that.”

Will stares at him, utterly unimpressed. He’s met a lot of cocky alphas before, but Harry Styles is in a league of his own—no shame, no filter, no class. The worst part? Will isn’t even mad. He’s amused. Because if this alpha wants to play games, Will is more than happy to return the favor.

He softens his posture, tilting his head slightly, letting a slow, sweet smile curve his lips. “You know, Harry, I may not be up for sleeping with you, but maybe I could help you win Louis over.”

Harry’s brows knit together in confusion. “But the bet is to sleep with both of you. I don’t win unless you’ve both had my knot in you.”

Will shrugs. “You’ve got a whole month, right? Focus on Louis first. He’s gonna be an even bigger challenge than me anyway.”

Harry narrows his eyes. “And why would you help me?”

Will’s smile doesn’t waver. “Maybe I just want to see my baby brother let loose for once,” he lies smoothly. “And besides, he could use some help in the alpha department.” He lowers his voice, as if sharing a secret. “He’s a virgin.”

Harry’s eyes widen slightly. “Seriously?”

It wasn’t true at all—Louis had lost his virginity to a female alpha back in sophomore year of high school. But it would be much more fun if Harry thought his brother was still an innocent virgin.

Will nods, completely straight-faced. “This is gonna be a lot harder than you thought, huh?”

Harry exhales, shaking his head. “Fuck. That complicates things.”

“Relax, Styles,” Will soothes, smirking. “You have me now. And lucky for you, my brother has a thing for alphas with curls.”

That part’s true. For Will too, not that Harry needs to know that.

Harry studies him for a moment before sighing. “Fine. Alright. Where do we start?”

Will grins, triumphant. “Library tomorrow. First Louis lesson.”

He turns, heading down the porch steps, but Harry calls after him. “I’m gonna get you in my bed too, ya know!”

Will flips him off over his shoulder.

Louis

Louis is late.

And Louis is never late.

He wouldn’t have been if Will hadn’t turned off his alarm just because he didn’t want to hear it. His twin always slept in, late to everything, but Louis was not his twin.

He actually cared about school—his classes, his grades, his future. Slacking off wasn’t an option when he had worked this hard to get where he was. He was the top student in all his classes, the one with perfect test scores, the highest-performing student in his major.

And now, because of Will, he is sprinting through the courtyard, papers and books clutched to his chest, trying to beat the clock. He still had a chance if he was fast.

Then, out of nowhere, he slams into something—or rather, someone.

The impact knocks him straight onto his ass, his books and papers scattering across the pavement.

Louis barely has time to process what happened before he looks up, ready to glare at whoever had just ruined his morning. His sharp words stall on his tongue when he takes in the alpha standing before him—broad-shouldered, green-eyed, curls peeking out from beneath a backward snapback.

Great. Just what he needs.

He huffs and immediately starts gathering his papers. He doesn’t have time for this.

“Here, let me help,” the alpha says, crouching down to grab some of the scattered pages.

“I should hope so, considering you were the one who fucking walked into me,” Louis snaps, not caring if it was an accident. He is already pissed off, and now he is going to be late.

The alpha doesn’t seem the least bit fazed by Louis’ irritation. Instead, he grins. “Sorry, Louis. I just couldn’t help but fall for you.”

Louis rolls his eyes so hard they nearly got stuck in the back of his head. “That line doesn’t even make sense since I’m the one who fucking fell. And how do you know my name?”

“Twin male omegas are pretty rare—especially when they’re as pretty as you and your brother,” the alpha says easily, handing Louis his papers.

Louis snatches them back. “Yeah, well, thanks for helping clean up the mess you made.”

The alpha smirks, completely unfazed. “I’m Harry, by the way.”

“Well, Harry, thanks for making me late to class,” Louis deadpans, trying to step around him.

But before he can get away, Harry catches his arm. “Wait—wanna go see a movie with me?”

Louis gives him a flat look. “Not really. And I’d appreciate it if you didn’t touch me.”

Harry lets go immediately, holding his hands up in mock surrender. “Noted. Have fun in class, omega.”

Louis shakes his head, ignoring him as he rushed off. By the time he finally reaches the classroom, he is sweaty, out of breath, and already dreading the attention.

Sure enough, as soon as he walks in, every head turns.

Because Louis Tomlinson is never late. And everyone knows that.

He ducks his head and hurries to his seat, checking his phone. 8:06 AM.

Fuck.

This—this right here—is exactly why he doesn’t get involved with alphas.

All they did was waste his time.

Will

Will strolls into the library, nursing an iced chai, when he sees Harry sitting at a table in the back. He plops down in the chair next to the alpha, who looks stressed.

“What’s up with you?” Will asks, nonchalantly, taking a sip of his drink.

“What’s up with me?” Harry huffs, voice strained as he tries to keep quiet. “You’re twenty minutes late! I thought you ditched me!”

“The coffee shop was busy,” he shrugs. “I’m here now, so hush.”

“Why are we even here? I’ve never even been here. I had to look up how to get here,” Harry says, looking around.

“We’re here because in about…” Will looks down at his phone to check the time. “Ten minutes, Louis will be walking through those doors. He always spends an hour and a half studying her after class.”

“Ah, I see,” Harry smirks, catching on. “So what’s the plan?”

“You’re going to go up to him?” Will says sarcastically.

“But what do I say? We ran into each other this morning and he totally shut me down,” the alpha pouts.

Will laughs, “Sounds like Lou.”

“You’re no help,” Harry groans, dropping head into his arms. 

“Relax,” Will brushes off. “Here’s some talking points. Louis loves talking about the stock market.” No, he doesn’t. “He’s majoring in musical theatre.” No, he’s not. “And his favorite animal is a blue ringed octopus.” It’s dogs. 

Harry narrows his eyes at Will, lips pursing like he’s trying to decide whether or not to believe him.

“You’re fucking with me,” he accuses.

Will gasps dramatically, placing a hand over his heart. “Would I ever steer you wrong, Styles?”

Harry just glares.

Will smirks. “Alright, maybe one of those was a lie.”

“Which one?”

Instead of answering, Will takes another sip of his iced chai, wrapping his lips around the straw and sucking slow, the motion just a little too deliberate.

Harry’s smirk sharpens. “Careful, sweetheart,” he drawls, resting his chin in his palm as he watches him. “Keep that up, and I might start thinking you want me to take you home.”

Will doesn’t miss a beat. He flicks his gaze up through his lashes, playing along as he takes another slow sip, his lips hollowing around the straw. Then, just as Harry’s smirk deepens, Will sinks his teeth into the plastic with a loud crunch.

Harry blinks.

Will grins around the straw, biting down again for good measure before letting it drop back into his cup. “Oops,” he says sweetly. “Guess I got carried away.”

Harry lets out a low chuckle, shaking his head. “You’re a shithead.”

“And yet, here you are,” Will sing-songs, swirling his drink.

Before Harry can retort, the library doors swing open, and in walks Louis, looking like he’s on a mission. His bag is slung over his shoulder, glasses perched on his nose, and he’s already flipping through a notebook as he makes his way toward his usual table.

Harry immediately straightens in his seat, rolling his shoulders back. “Showtime.”

Will pats him on the back. “Go get ‘em, tiger.”

Harry throws him a wink before standing, striding toward Louis like he’s already won.

Will leans back in his chair, sipping the rest of his drink with a satisfied hum.

This is going to be fun.

Louis

Louis barely glances up as he reaches his usual table, already flipping through his notes. He has exactly an hour and a half to review before his next class, and he intends to make the most of it.

He pulls out a pen, scanning the highlighted sections of his textbook, when a shadow falls over his table.

“Fancy seeing you here, babe.”

Louis knows that voice.

His grip tightens around his pen as he exhales sharply through his nose. Slowly, he lifts his gaze, and—of course—there stands Harry, smirking down at him like he owns the place.

“What do you want?” Louis deadpans, not even bothering to feign politeness.

Harry tsks, placing a hand over his heart like he’s wounded. “Not even a hello? And here I was, thinking we had something special after our little run-in this morning.”

Louis levels him with a flat stare. “You crashed into me, made me late for class, and then asked me on a date while I was literally on the ground. That’s not special, that’s annoying.”

Harry, completely unbothered, pulls out the chair across from him and sits down, propping his chin in his hand. “You wound me, truly.”

Louis pinches the bridge of his nose, inhaling deeply before exhaling through his mouth. Patience. “Did you actually need something, or are you just here to waste my time?”

“Can’t a guy just want to get to know you?” Harry grins, all dimples and mischief. “You’re the talk of the campus, you know. Both of you.”

Louis rolls his eyes. “Yeah, I’m well aware. People act like we’re some kind of rare collectible.”

Harry hums. “Can you blame them? Identical omega twins? Handsome, smart—” he gestures at Louis’ textbook “—a little bit mean but in a hot way. It’s all very intriguing.”

Louis stares at him, unimpressed. “Did you just come over here to stroke my ego?”

“I’d rather be stroking somethi—”

“Jesus Christ.” Louis snaps his book shut so hard it echoes.

Harry barks out a laugh, utterly delighted by Louis’ exasperation.

Louis clenches his jaw, done with this interaction already. He reaches for his notes, fully intending to ignore the alpha until he leaves, when—

“You know, I actually love the stock market.”

Louis blinks. What?

Harry leans forward, all casual, as if that’s a normal thing to say in the middle of a conversation that was just about stroking things.

“…You what?”

“The stock market,” Harry says smoothly. “Fascinating stuff. I’d love to hear your thoughts on it.”

Louis squints at him. Something isn’t right.

“No, you wouldn’t,” he says bluntly.

Harry gasps, pressing a hand to his chest. “Are you saying I don’t seem like the kind of guy who appreciates—uh—” He flounders for a second, then blurts, “Mutual funds?”

Louis narrows his eyes.

Harry’s smirk flickers for half a second before he recovers. “401k?” he tries again, flashing his dimples.

And that’s when it clicks.

Louis leans back in his chair, crossing his arms. “Did Will put you up to this?”

Harry blinks, then schools his expression back into something cocky. “Will?” he echoes, feigning confusion.

“Yes,” Louis says slowly, eyeing him. “My twin. Who you were just sitting with. Who is a pathological liar.”

Harry waves a hand. “Now, now. ‘Pathological’ is a strong word.”

Louis sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose again. “What did he tell you?”

Harry rubs his jaw, looking suspiciously like he’s holding back a laugh. “That you… love the stock market.”

Louis glares.

“That you’re majoring in musical theatre.”

Louis clenches his jaw.

“And that your favorite animal is a… what was it? Oh. A blue-ringed octopus.”

Louis inhales deeply.

Harry bites his lip like he’s desperately trying not to laugh. “That one seemed a little weird, but, y’know. Who am I to judge?”

Louis is going to kill his brother.

He snaps his textbook back open, done with this entire conversation. “Go away, Harry.”

But of course, the alpha just smirks, leaning his chin in his hand. “Nah. I think I’ll stick around.”

Louis groans, dropping his forehead against his open book.

This is exactly why he doesn’t get involved with alphas.

They’re nothing but distractions.

Will finally makes his way over to their table, sliding into the seat next to Harry like he doesn’t have a care in the world. “Well, isn’t this cozy?” he muses, setting his drink down with a smirk.

Louis immediately turns on him. “You put him up to this, didn’t you?”

Will blinks at him, feigning innocence. “Up to what?”

Louis glares. “Oh, don’t play dumb. You fed him a bunch of lies about me and sent him over here like some pathetic attempt at matchmaking.”

Will gasps, pressing a hand to his chest. “Me? I would never.”

Louis just stares at him, unimpressed.

Harry watches the exchange, trying not to laugh but also very aware that he’s caught in the middle of something way deeper than he signed up for. “So, uh… was the octopus thing really a lie?”

Louis scoffs and turns back to him. “Obviously.” He throws one last glare at Will before standing up and collecting his things. “I don’t have time for this.”

But before he can storm off, Harry speaks up, voice suddenly softer. “Wait—look, I might’ve been set up, but I did want to talk to you.”

Louis hesitates, just for a second. He looks at Harry, searching his expression like he’s waiting for the joke.

Harry doesn’t smirk. He doesn’t throw out another flirty line. Instead, he shrugs. “I think you’re interesting.”

Louis’ jaw tightens like he doesn’t know what to do with that. So he doesn’t. He just exhales sharply and turns on his heel, leaving without another word.

Will

Harry watches him go, then turns to Will with a glare. “You’re a shit wingman.”

Will, completely unbothered, sips his drink. “I never said I was a wingman.”

Harry shakes his head. “You think this is all just a joke, don’t you?”

Will smirks. “It was a joke. At first.” He leans back in his chair, stretching his arms. “But fine, fine. I’ll be serious from now on.”

Harry narrows his eyes. “You’re lying.”

Will grins. “Maybe.”

Will watches Louis disappear down the library aisle, then turns back to Harry, who looks pissed. His jaw is tight, arms crossed, and his green eyes are practically burning.

“Well, that went well,” Will says, sipping his drink, eyes dancing with amusement.

Harry glares. “You set me up.”

Will shrugs, completely unbothered. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

Harry huffs, leaning forward. “You lied to me. You deliberately made me look like an idiot.”

Will snickers. “Made you? Please. You did that all on your own.”

Harry rolls his eyes. “You’re a menace.”

Will takes another sip from his straw, just to be annoying, then grins. “You still need me.”

Harry shakes his head. “Not if you’re just gonna fuck with me.”

Will leans in, resting his chin on his hand. “Would I do that?”

Harry levels him with a look.

Will grins wider. “Okay, maybe I would. But now that I’ve had my fun, I swear I’ll be serious.”

Harry just stares at him, visibly unconvinced.

Will claps a hand on his shoulder. “You’re gonna have to trust me on this one.”

Harry scoffs. “I trust you about as far as I can throw you.”

“Which, given your big strong alpha muscles, is probably pretty far.” Will smirks, winking.

Harry scoffs. “I don’t know why I’m still listening to you.”

“Because you want to win,” Will says simply. “And I am your best shot.”

Harry smirks, cocky and infuriating. “Oh, I don’t need you. I could have Louis wrapped around my finger all on my own.”

Will laughs. “Yeah? Is that what just happened?”

Harry’s smirk falters slightly, but he recovers fast. “I’ll admit—you threw a wrench in things. But don’t worry, I’ll still have him in my bed soon enough.” He pauses, grinning wider. “Both of you, actually.”

Will tilts his head, expression unreadable. “That so?”

Harry leans back, stretching lazily, full of himself. “Oh, yeah. He’ll love how good I am with my hands. And once you see how good I am, you won’t be able to resist either.”

Will snorts, unimpressed. “I’ll believe it when I see it.”

Harry smirks. “Careful, Tomlinson. You sound jealous.”

Will rolls his eyes, standing up. “Right. I’m so jealous. Come on, lover boy, we’ve got planning to do.”

Harry follows, still smirking like he’s already won. Will just shakes his head. He can’t wait to knock that cocky alpha down a peg.

Louis

“Why are you trying to ruin my life?”

Louis paces the dorm, arms crossed, shooting Will the sharpest glare he can manage. He cannot believe his brother is doing this to him. What does he even gain from encouraging that insufferable alpha? Other than his humiliation, obviously.

Will flops onto his bed, completely unbothered. “You’re so dramatic. I was just having a little fun with the alpha. It’s nothing against you.”

“Yeah, but you’re encouraging him! I don’t need any alphas distracting me from my work,” Louis snaps.

He’s worked too hard to get where he is. To be top of his class, to have control over his life. He’s not about to let Harry Styles, no matter how annoyingly attractive he is, come in and wreck it all.

Will props himself up on his elbows, smirking. “What about me? Will you let me distract you from your work?”

Louis sighs, eyeing his twin. Will might be aggravating, but he knows him too well. Knows exactly when he’s stressed, when he needs to unwind, when he’s too wound up for his own good.

He hesitates, then climbs onto Will’s bed, settling beside him with a huff. “I’m still mad at you.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Will says, waving a dismissive hand. “But you love me anyway.”

Louis rolls his eyes but doesn’t argue. Because of course he does. Will is his other half, the only person who truly understands him. The only one who has always been there.

Will smiles before pulling him closer and capturing his lips in a kiss.

Louis freezes for a second but then leans into it. They’ve always had this connection, ever since they were younger. Once they presented, everything changed—they were closer, helped each other with their heats, just more in tune with each other. Their bond became… intimate in ways that were hard to explain to anyone outside of their world.

Will deepens the kiss, and Louis can’t help but get lost in it. The tension in his chest, the constant stress from school, and now the constant pull Harry seems to have on him—it all melts away in the familiar comfort of his twin’s embrace. He gives in easily, his body relaxing against Will’s, the pressure finally easing just a little.

For a moment, nothing matters except the two of them.

But then Louis pulls away, just as things start to heat up between them. Will groans at the sudden loss, his hands reaching for him instinctively.

“I thought we were about to fuck,” Will pouts, his voice a mix of disappointment and playfulness as he watches Louis scramble off his lap.

Louis stands up, pulling his shirt back into place and smoothing it down. “Sorry, Will. I’ve got homework to finish,” he says with a sigh. “You know, the stuff I couldn’t get done because of your little distractions.”

Will watches him with a dramatic frown, but he knows better than to push it. At least for now.

Louis grabs his backpack and settles at his desk, pulling out his statistics notes. He’s barely gotten started when Will speaks again.

“Suit yourself, Lou. I’ll just have fun by myself.”

Louis rolls his eyes at his brother’s antics and focuses on his paper—until he hears a familiar sound.

He glances over, and sure enough, Will’s sprawled out on his bed, pants off, stroking his cock lazily, a smirk playing on his lips.

Louis sighs, exasperated. “Really, Will? Right now?”

“What?” Will shrugs, slipping two fingers into his wet hole with a breathy moan. “You got me worked up. I’m just finishing what you started.”

Louis clenches his jaw, determined to ignore him—the moans, the slick, the obscene squelching sounds. He tries to focus on statistics, but it’s hard when his own cock stirs and his hole starts leaking in response.

He curses under his breath. 

Slamming his notebook shut, he yanks off his jeans and boxers. If his brother insists on being a little shit, he might as well get something out of it.

Will grins when he sees Louis strip. “Knew you wouldn’t last long.”

“Fuck you,” Louis huffs, climbing onto the bed and yanking Will’s hips close before sinking in with one smooth thrust, bottoming out.

Will moans at the sudden stretch but smirks up at him. “You’re topping me this time? That’s rare.”

“Yeah, well, you need to be fucked into submission sometimes,” Louis grunts, already setting a punishing pace.

Will scoffs, breath hitching. “You’d need a knot for that, babe.”

“Shut up.” Louis growls—not the most intimidating sound coming from an omega, but it makes Will laugh anyway.

“Bet you’re all worked up over Harry,” Will teases, voice breathy. “He’s a douche, but he’s hot as fuck. Imagine how big his knot is.”

Louis grits his teeth. “Why can’t you ever be fucking quiet?”

But the image is already there—Harry’s big hands gripping his hips, knot stretching him open—and Louis hates the way his body responds, slick gushing out of him.

Will laughs, wrecked and knowing. “I bet you wish it was him fucking you instead right now. I know I do. He’d actually reach my prostate.”

Louis doesn’t dignify that with a response. Instead, he grips Will’s cock and strokes him in time with his thrusts. It only takes a few more pumps before he’s spilling inside his brother, Will following with an identical moan.

The moment it’s over, Louis pulls out, wipes his hands off, and yanks his underwear back on. When he glances back, Will is still sprawled out, come leaking from his hole, a satisfied smirk on his face.

Louis grimaces and tosses a tissue at him. “Clean yourself up.”

Will snickers, wiping at his stomach. “I just made you come to the thought of the alpha you were just complaining about.”

Louis groans, slumping back into his desk chair. He’s not supposed to be thinking about Harry at all—let alone picturing those big hands gripping his hips, that thick knot stretching him until he can’t breathe.

Shoving the thought away, he flips his notebook open.

He’s got more important things to worry about.

Like statistics.

Harry

Harry lounges on the couch in the frat house, controller in hand, eyes locked on the screen as he and his brothers battle it out in a game of Call of Duty. The room is filled with the sound of gunfire, shouted insults, and the occasional victory cheer. Across from him, Niall is perched on the arm of the couch, beer in one hand, his own controller in the other, while Liam sits next to him, an arm slung lazily around Zayn’s shoulders.

Zayn is curled into Liam’s side, scrolling on his phone, clearly uninterested in the game but content to be there. He only glances up when Liam curses under his breath after getting sniped.

“Maybe if you paid more attention instead of trying to grope your omega, you wouldn’t keep dying,” Harry taunts, smirking.

Liam flips him off, but before he can fire back, Niall grins and changes the subject. “So, Haz, what’s the update on the Tomlinson twins? Have you made any real progress, or are you still just running your mouth?”

At the mention of the twins, Zayn finally looks up, interested. “Wait, what’s going on with the twins?”

Harry tenses. “Nothing. Mind your business.”

Zayn narrows his eyes. “That is my business. They’re my friends. And I don’t trust you.”

“Liam, don’t,” Harry warns before his brother can open his mouth. He knows Zayn will flip if he finds out about the bet—especially since he’s an omega himself and has always been protective of the twins.

Liam ignores him completely. “Harry made a bet that he could get both of them into his bed by the end of the semester.”

Zayn’s face immediately twists in disgust. “Are you serious? You think you can just win them like they’re some kind of prize?”

Harry rolls his eyes. “Relax, it’s not that deep.”

“The hell it isn’t,” Zayn snaps. “Louis and Will aren’t idiots, and they sure as hell aren’t desperate enough to fall for whatever alpha charm you think you have.”

Harry leans back, smirking. “We’ll see about that.”

“No, you won’t.” Zayn glares at him. “Because they’re never gonna give in. Not to some cocky alpha who sees them as a challenge instead of actual people.”

Harry shrugs, feigning indifference. “I wouldn’t be so sure about that.”

But he can still hear Zayn muttering under his breath, something about arrogant alphas and fucking disgusting, and for the first time since making the bet, an uneasy feeling creeps into his chest.

Not that he’d ever admit it.

***

The afternoon sun beats down on the outdoor basketball court, making the pavement hot beneath Harry’s sneakers. He dribbles the ball, muscles flexing as he moves, beads of sweat sliding down his bare chest. He’s been playing one-on-one with Niall for the past half-hour, but when he glances toward the entrance of the court, he spots Will Tomlinson leaning casually against the fence, watching.

Harry smirks, bouncing the ball lazily as he calls out, “See something you like, Tomlinson?”

Will doesn’t flinch. He tilts his head, running his tongue over his teeth before pushing off the fence and walking toward him. “Nah. Just surprised you actually do something other than run your mouth.”

Niall snickers and steps back, clearly sensing this isn’t his moment. “I’ll let you two have your little moment.” He tosses his towel over his shoulder and heads toward the benches, leaving them alone.

Will crosses his arms, giving Harry a slow once-over. “You should put a shirt on. You’re making it real obvious how much you’re trying to impress me.”

Harry grins. “You sure it’s not working?”

Will snorts, rolling his eyes. “Not in the slightest.”

Harry can tell it’s a lie. He saw the way Will’s eyes lingered, the little hitch in his breath before he answered. But instead of calling him out, he lets it go. “So, to what do I owe the pleasure?”

Will steps closer, tilting his head in mock thought. “I’ve been thinking… if you really wanna win my brother over, you’re gonna need to do something big.”

Harry narrows his eyes, bouncing the ball a few times. “Oh yeah? And why do I get the feeling you’re messing with me?”

Will gasps dramatically. “I would never.”

Harry isn’t convinced. “What kind of big thing are we talking about?”

Will smirks. “A grand romantic gesture. Something straight out of a movie. The kind of thing that makes an omega swoon.”

Harry crosses his arms over his chest. “And you just happened to come up with this out of the kindness of your heart?”

“Of course,” Will says smoothly. “I just love watching you make a fool of yourself.”

Harry shakes his head, laughing under his breath. “And why should I trust you?”

Will shrugs. “You shouldn’t. But if you don’t, you’ll never get anywhere with Louis. And we both know you want to.”

Harry studies him for a moment. He knows Will’s up to something—he can see the mischief in his eyes—but he also knows that if he wants any chance with Louis, he might have to play along.

“Fine,” he says eventually. “What’s the plan?”

Will grins. “Oh, don’t you worry, Styles. I’ve got just the thing.”

Harry wipes the sweat from his forehead with the back of his hand, still watching Will warily. He doesn’t trust this for a second, but he’s also not about to let Will think he’s afraid to take a risk.

“So?” Harry prompts. “What’s this big, swoon-worthy gesture you’ve got cooked up?”

Will taps a finger against his chin, as if deep in thought. “I was thinking… something classic. Something that makes an omega feel special.”

Harry smirks. “That’s very vague, Tomlinson.”

Will grins. “I know. Keeps you on your toes.” He steps closer, his voice dropping just a bit. “Louis is a sucker for romantic shit, even if he pretends he’s not. If you pull off something big enough, you’ll get him flustered. And a flustered Louis is a very interesting Louis.”

Harry raises an eyebrow, bouncing the basketball lazily. “And you’d know this because…?”

Will shrugs. “I’m his twin. I know him better than anyone. Which is why you should listen to me.”

Harry hums, considering. “I’m listening.”

Will smirks. “Good. So here’s what you’re gonna do: this weekend, there’s a big outdoor movie night on campus. Everyone brings blankets, snacks, cuddles up under the stars—real romantic vibes.” He pauses for effect. “You’re going to ask Louis to go with you.”

Harry barks out a laugh. “Oh yeah? And he’s just gonna say yes?”

Will rolls his eyes. “Obviously not. He’ll say no, because he’s stubborn as hell. But that’s where you come in. You’ve gotta make it irresistible.”

Harry tilts his head, intrigued despite himself. “And how do you suggest I do that?”

Will’s grin is pure mischief. “You show up outside his dorm with flowers, a handwritten invitation, maybe even a little speech about how much fun it would be.”

Harry raises an eyebrow, smirking. “Flowers, huh? So that’s the secret to getting an omega all worked up?”

Will shrugs. “It doesn’t hurt.”

Harry lets his gaze flicker over Will, deliberate and slow. “Even you?” He smirks. “Would it win you over?”

Will snorts, unbothered. “Not a chance. You’d have to do way more than that for me, big guy.”

Harry chuckles, shaking his head. “Shame. I guess I’ll just have to settle for your brother, then.”

Will smirks but doesn’t bite back. “Mmm, good luck with that.”

Harry shifts his weight, still dribbling the ball. “I’m trying to sleep with him, not date him. Flowers feel like a mixed message.”

Will raises a brow. “Does it? Or are you just scared it might actually work?”

Harry scoffs, but something unsettles in his chest. His alpha bristles at the dismissal, at the reminder that this is supposed to be a game. It doesn’t feel like one. Not with Louis. Not even with Will.

“Fine,” Harry says, pointing a finger at Will. “But if this backfires, I’m coming for you.”

Will winks. “Oh, I’m counting on it.”

Harry sighs, dribbling the ball once before tossing it toward the hoop. It swishes in effortlessly, but he barely notices. His alpha is already focused on something else entirely.

Louis.

And for better or worse, he’s about to make a very public attempt at wooing him.

Louis

Louis adjusts his bag on his shoulder as he leaves class, already thinking about the long night of studying ahead of him. He barely makes it three steps toward the courtyard when he hears his name being called—loudly.

“Louis!”

His stomach tightens at the voice. He knows exactly who it is before he even turns around.

And sure enough, standing in the middle of the quad, drawing attention from every passerby, is Harry fucking Styles.

Louis stops dead in his tracks, staring in pure disbelief. The alpha is standing there with a ridiculous, smug grin, holding out a bouquet of flowers like he’s in some grand romance film. A bouquet.

“What the fuck are you doing?” Louis hisses, storming over. His face is already burning with secondhand embarrassment as students start whispering around them.

Harry’s grin widens. “I’m asking you on a date, obviously.”

Louis gapes at him. “This is not obvious. This is mortifying.”

Harry tilts his head, amusement dancing in his green eyes. “What’s mortifying about an alpha wanting to take you out?”

Louis scowls, crossing his arms. “It’s not that, it’s this.” He gestures between them. “The flowers, the public spectacle—you’re trying to make a scene.”

Harry smirks. “If you say yes, then I won’t have to keep standing here holding these flowers like a sad, lovesick idiot.”

Louis groans, dragging a hand down his face. “I don’t date, Styles.”

Harry leans in slightly, dropping his voice just enough. “Who said anything about dating?”

Louis’ breath catches, and that annoys him more than anything. He schools his face into a glare. “Then why the big romantic gesture?”

Harry grins. “Because omegas swoon over this stuff.”

Louis narrows his eyes. His pulse is beating too fast, his skin prickling with heat. He can feel everyone watching them, waiting for his response, and that makes him want to reject Harry even more.

He exhales sharply. “No.”

Harry doesn’t even falter. “Why not?”

Louis clenches his jaw. “Because I have better things to do.”

Harry hums, tapping his chin. “Like studying alone in your dorm for hours until you pass out at your desk?”

Louis’ mouth opens, then shuts. Because… well. Yes.

Harry chuckles. “Come on, Lou. Just one night. A movie under the stars. You might even have fun.”

Louis hates that part of him wants to say yes. That his chest feels tight and warm at the idea of spending the night out there, on a blanket, with Harry next to him. He hates that his fingers twitch at his sides, that his body reacts before his mind can tell it to stop.

He swallows hard, shaking his head. “No, Harry.”

Harry watches him for a second, and something unreadable passes through his expression before the smirk returns. “Fine. But you’re missing out.”

Louis rolls his eyes and walks away, pretending his heart isn’t pounding in his chest.

And definitely pretending that he isn’t going to be thinking about this all night.

***

Louis storms into the dorm, the door slamming behind him as he throws his backpack onto his desk, the weight of his frustration making everything feel ten times heavier. Will, perched on his bed with his phone in hand, doesn’t even flinch at the noise.

“That bad, huh?” Will’s voice is casual, almost teasing, as he lazily glances up.

Louis spins around, his hands planted on his hips. “You knew, didn’t you?” The words tumble out of his mouth before he can stop them, a mix of anger and disbelief in his tone.

Will looks genuinely confused for a moment before the smug grin slowly starts to spread across his face. “Knew what?”

“That Harry fucking Styles was going to show up outside my class with a bouquet like some rom-com hero!” Louis shouts, pacing back and forth. He can’t stop himself. The embarrassment is bubbling inside him, and it’s coming out in bursts of frustration. “What the hell, Will? You didn’t think that would be a problem?”

Will smirks, sitting up, unfazed by his twin’s outburst. “Oh, that. Yeah, I knew something like that would happen. But hey, it worked, didn’t it?”

Louis rounds on him. “No! It didn’t work! It made me want to crawl under a rock and never come out!” He throws his hands up, exasperated. “It was ridiculous, Will. I’m so fucking annoyed right now.”

Will’s smile turns more teasing, his eyes glinting with amusement. “Well, at least he’s trying. Better than some of the other alphas around here, right?”

Louis shakes his head, pacing again. “I don’t care about his stupid ‘grand gestures’ or whatever. I don’t need an alpha’s pity. And I don’t want to be his damn project.”

“Sounds like you’re mad because it wasn’t a pity gesture.” Will’s voice has an edge to it now, though he still sounds mostly playful. “Maybe you’re just mad because the guy’s actually into you.”

Louis freezes mid-step, his heart thudding in his chest. The thought of Harry being genuinely interested in him—despite the way he’s been acting—does make him uncomfortable. He doesn’t want to think about the idea that Harry could be serious about him.

But then Will’s voice breaks through his thoughts. “So, what’d he say when you confronted him about it? Did he apologize or—”

“Don’t,” Louis interrupts, turning back to face his brother. “It was humiliating enough. I don’t need to hear you laugh about it.”

Will shrugs nonchalantly. “I’m not laughing. Just enjoying the show. Besides, you liked it deep down. You’re not fooling me, Lou.”

Louis glares at him. “I didn’t like it. I don’t even know why you’re helping him. You never help me when I don’t want anything to do with an alpha, and yet here you are, playing matchmaker.”

Will’s grin falters for just a second, but he recovers quickly, looking at Louis with a more serious gaze. “I’m not playing matchmaker. I’m just giving him a push in the right direction. You deserve someone who isn’t just playing with you, Louis. You deserve someone who wants you for more than your looks or your status as an omega.”

Louis blinks, thrown off guard by the sudden change in Will’s tone. The playful banter they usually have feels distant now, like there’s something more underneath it all that Louis can’t quite grasp. He opens his mouth to say something, but nothing comes out.

“I’m still mad at you, by the way,” Louis mutters after a beat, his voice quieter now.

Will raises an eyebrow. “For what? Giving him a little nudge in the right direction?”

Louis rolls his eyes. “I didn’t ask for this. And for him to be this… intense about it.”

Will watches him for a moment, then shrugs and flops back onto his bed, clearly done with the conversation. “Whatever. You’ll figure it out. Just don’t blame me when you’re the one falling for him.”

Louis huffs, turning away and heading to his desk to grab his laptop. He’s frustrated, but it’s a different kind of frustration. Will’s words are still hanging in the air, and no matter how much Louis tries to ignore it, the idea that maybe—just maybe—Harry is actually interested in him, not just playing some game, stirs something inside him.

His phone buzzes with a text, and he snatches it up, hoping it’s something to distract him. But it’s just another notification from his class group chat. He’s been so distracted by everything that’s been going on with Harry that he hasn’t even gotten any of his work done.

Louis sighs deeply, pulling his chair out and sitting down at his desk. “I hate alphas,” he mutters under his breath as he pulls up his notes, forcing his focus back to school. He needs to get this done.

But even as he opens his textbook and tries to dive back into his work, his mind keeps drifting back to Harry. The guy’s in his head, and Louis isn’t sure if that’s a good or a bad thing.

One thing’s for sure—he’s not going to let Harry get away with it so easily. Not without at least making him work for it.

Harry

Harry lounges on the couch, eyes glued to the TV but not really paying attention. His thoughts are tangled with the twins. His alpha side is still itching to try again, but frustration builds in his chest. Louis and Will—neither of them are acting the way he expected. They’re throwing him off balance in ways he doesn’t know how to handle. He’s supposed to be playing it cool, but everything’s becoming more complicated than he planned.

Liam, sprawled across the armrest, glances over at him. “So, how’d the flowers thing go?” he asks casually, though there’s an edge of curiosity in his tone.

Harry scoffs and drops his head back into the couch. “Oh, it went great. Louis practically shot me down. But yeah, he’s totally into it. You can just tell, right?” His voice is laced with mock enthusiasm.

Liam grins, clearly enjoying Harry’s discomfort. “Sounds like you’re making progress, huh?”

“I’m making something happen,” Harry mutters, running a hand through his hair. “But honestly, I don’t know. Louis and Will? They’re both messing with me, and I can’t quite figure out why. Louis doesn’t act like any other omega I’ve dealt with. And Will… damn, he’s impossible.”

Zayn, who’s been silent up until now, finally speaks. “Hold up, you’re still trying with them? After everything, you’re still pushing the bet?” His voice is colder than usual, irritation clear in his tone.

Harry glances over at Zayn, raising an eyebrow. “Yeah, I’m still trying. Why? You got a problem with that?”

Zayn looks at him, eyes narrowing. “You’re damn right I do. That bet is bullshit, and you know it. I’m friends with both of them, and it’s honestly disrespectful. You’re treating them like some kind of game.” His voice rises slightly, the irritation spilling over. “And you think they’re gonna just fall for it? You’re wrong. They’re not like the rest of the people you’ve messed with.”

Harry shifts uncomfortably but tries to brush it off. “I get it, Zayn. You’re friends with them, but it’s not like that. I’m just trying to figure them out. And yeah, it’s a challenge. But I’m not messing with their feelings.”

Zayn scoffs, his expression darkening. “That’s exactly what you’re doing. You’re betting on them, treating them like some damn prize to win. It’s gross, man. It’s disrespectful.”

Liam, sensing the tension between the two, tries to intervene. “Hey, let’s chill. Harry’s not trying to make it personal.”

But Zayn isn’t having it. “No, Liam, it’s personal. I’m not going to sit here and let Harry talk about my friends like they’re some conquest. Will and Louis have their own shit to deal with, and they don’t need some cocky alpha messing with them just because he can.”

Harry leans forward, trying to stay calm. “Look, I’m not trying to hurt them. I’m just… I don’t know, Zayn. I can’t stop thinking about them. Louis, especially. And Will—he’s not making this easy either.”

Zayn glares at him. “Yeah? Well, you better figure it out fast because if you keep going like this, you’ll end up hurting them. You might think you’re the big bad alpha that can just get whatever he wants, but these two aren’t like the others. And they won’t fall for your tricks.”

Harry’s jaw clenches, but there’s a part of him that knows Zayn’s right. He doesn’t want to admit it, but he’s becoming attached. His mind keeps circling back to the twins—how they confuse him, frustrate him, and somehow draw him in all at once.

“I’m not trying to hurt anyone,” Harry mutters, more to himself than anyone else. “I just want to win.”

Zayn’s expression softens a little, but his voice is firm. “Then stop treating them like a game and start respecting them as people. If you don’t, you’ll screw it up before you even get a chance.”

Liam, who’s been watching quietly, speaks up. “Zayn’s right, man. But at the end of the day, you’ve got to decide if you’re in this to win or if you actually care about what happens with them.”

Harry stares at the two of them, feeling the weight of Zayn’s words more than he wants to admit. He doesn’t want to think about the fact that he’s not just playing a game anymore. But deep down, he knows it’s already getting complicated. And the more he tries to ignore it, the harder it becomes to keep his distance.

Will

Will stands in the frat house’s dingy living room, lazily bouncing a ping-pong ball in the air while Harry sits across from him, clearly deep in thought but trying to act like he’s too cool to be caught up in something as silly as a game.

The place reeks of stale beer and cheap pizza, and the sounds of a video game on the TV in the corner barely drown out the noise of the frat brothers laughing and shouting in the next room. He’s been invited over, mostly to hang out and “relax,” but Will knows Harry has a much more specific reason for wanting him here.

“So,” Will starts, deliberately dragging out the word as he smacks the ping-pong ball back across the table, “the whole big grand romantic gesture thing bombed, didn’t it?”

“Ya think?” Harry deadpans, barely reacting as the ball bounces past him. “He was this close to throwing the flowers in my face.”

Will smirks, twirling his paddle. “See, but what you didn’t see was Louis storming into our dorm and ranting about it for ten minutes straight.”

Harry raises an eyebrow, grabbing the ball off the floor. “And how exactly is that a good thing?”

“Because,” Will says, leaning in like he’s sharing top-secret omega knowledge, “you got a reaction out of him. He went on and on about how annoying it was, which in omega code means he secretly liked the attention.”

Harry furrows his brow. “That’s a thing?”

Will nods knowingly. “It’s a thing. If he really didn’t like it, he wouldn’t have wasted his breath. He’d have just rolled his eyes and moved on. But instead, he’s stewing over it. That means you’re in his head.”

Harry exhales, rubbing his jaw. “Omegas are exhausting.”

“Oh, boo hoo. The struggles of an alpha,” Will mocks, dramatically clutching his chest. “However do you survive?”

“Ha ha,” Harry says flatly. He angles his paddle, sending the ball skidding back. “Alright, omega, got any big ideas to actually move things along? Because I now have three weeks left to knot you both, or I lose.”

Will tilts his head. “Speaking of… you never did say what happens if you lose.”

Harry sighs, running a hand through his curls. “I have to do every alpha in the frat’s laundry for a month and take our frat president’s beta cousin on a date.”

Will snorts. “And that’s a bad thing?”

Harry grimaces. “Trust me, it’s a bad thing.”

Will hums, tapping his paddle against his thigh before setting it down. “Alright, here’s a thought. We go on a practice date. The movie thing under the stars is tomorrow—low effort, easy charm. I’ll coach you, and then you’ll know exactly what to do when Louis inevitably cracks.”

Harry smirks, crossing his arms. “If you wanted to fuck me, all you had to do was ask. We don’t need this date bullshit.”

Will decides to have some fun. He steps in close, just inches away, tilts his head in a classic omega invitation, and bats his lashes. “Maybe you’re right,” he murmurs, voice dripping with faux sweetness. “It has been a while since I’ve had a big dick fuck me hard and fast. Maybe I should make it easy for you to win your bet—get me out of the way first. We could slip upstairs right now, and I could ride your knot until the sun comes up.”

Harry’s smirk falters, his pupils blown wide. Will sees the exact moment his words hit, so he leans in, just enough for his breath to ghost against the shell of Harry’s ear.

“I bet you’d love to know what my slick tastes like.”

A low growl rumbles in Harry’s chest, and before he can think better of it, he reaches out, ready to grab Will by the hips. But Will is faster—he dodges easily, slipping out of his grasp with a loud laugh.

“I cannot believe you fell for that,” Will cackles, clutching his stomach. “A little throat baring and dirty talk is all it takes, huh?”

Harry glares, looking equal parts turned on and pissed. “You’re the fucking worst.”

“I know,” Will grins, far too pleased with himself.

But then Harry’s nostrils flare, his expression shifting. He takes a step closer, and this time he’s the one lowering his voice.

“You talk a lot of shit, Will,” he murmurs, lips brushing dangerously close to his ear. “But the smell of your slick will give you away every time.”

Will freezes—just for a second—before forcing himself to scoff, masking the way his face heats up. “I have no idea what the fuck you’re talking about,” he lies, crossing his arms. “So this practice date—are you in or what?”

Harry sighs, rolling his eyes. “Fine. I have no other ideas on how to get Louis to sleep with me, so you’re my only option.”

Will flashes a smug smile as he heads for the door. “I’m so flattered. Meet me at my dorm tomorrow at six. Don’t be late!”

***

Will is pleasantly surprised when Harry arrives on time the next night. A knock echoes through their dorm a few minutes before six, and an idea sparks in Will’s mind—something to make things a bit more entertaining.

“Louis, get the door,” he says, far too casually.

His twin frowns from where he’s lounging on his bed. “Why?”

Will sighs, giving an exaggerated huff. “Because I’m tying my shoe. Duh.” He rolls his eyes but can’t quite stop the smirk from creeping onto his face.

Louis groans but pushes himself up, muttering under his breath as he trudges toward the door. Will watches with barely concealed amusement as his twin swings it open—and immediately freezes.

There stands Harry, leaning lazily against the doorframe, looking obnoxiously good, as always. His curls are pushed back, and he’s wearing a sheer black T-shirt that clings to his chest, showing off his tattoos, paired with tight black jeans. A blanket is slung over his arm.

Louis, however, is not impressed.

“Look, Harry, I already told you—me and you? Never gonna happen. You need to get a fucking grip if you think showing up at our dorm is gonna change my mind.”

Will bites his lip to keep from laughing. This is too good.

Harry, unfazed, simply chuckles. “You know, babe, as cute as you look when you’re mad, I’m not actually here for you. I’m here for Will.”

Louis’ head snaps toward him, eyes wide. “Wait. What?” He glances between them, confusion flickering into something else—something like discomfort. His cheeks flush red. “Oh. I… I didn’t know. Um. Have fun, I guess.”

Will grins, walking up to his brother and pressing a sloppy kiss to his cheek. “Don’t wait up, Mom,” he teases before stepping out and pulling the door shut behind him.

They’ve only made it a few feet down the hallway before Will turns to Harry with a triumphant grin. “Did you see that?! He was totally jealous!”

Harry looks doubtful. “He was?”

Will groans, throwing his hands up. “Are alphas born without brain cells, or do your moms just put all their effort into making your knots in the womb?”

Harry scowls. “You’re a little shit.”

Will just laughs, easily falling into step beside him. As expected, a few students eye them curiously as they walk through the omega dorms—after all, it’s not every day that one of the most sought-after alphas on campus is seen casually escorting an omega out for the evening. Will ignores the stares.

“What do you think that was?” he presses, elbowing Harry lightly. “Did you see his face drop when you said you were here for me? He looked so disappointed.”

Harry is quiet for a moment, and when Will glances up, he finds the alpha already watching him. There’s something soft about the way he’s looking at him, something almost fond.

Will narrows his eyes. “What?”

Harry just smiles and shakes his head. “Nothing. You just have a really cute laugh.”

Will should not blush. William Tomlinson does not blush. And yet—his face betrays him, heat creeping up his neck.

He scowls, looking away. “Shut up.” But the corner of his mouth betrays him, curving into a reluctant smile.

Harry, the smug bastard, holds the door open for him as they exit the dorms, and Will rolls his eyes. He doesn’t need the alpha’s chivalry. And then—to top it all off—Harry places a guiding hand on the small of his back, the instinctive kind of gesture alphas do without thinking.

“Wow,” Will drawls. “Holding the door and touching my back? Who knew a knothead like you had manners?”

Harry smirks. “Just because I like to fuck around doesn’t mean I don’t have basic courtesy. My mom’s an omega—she raised me right.”

“Hm,” Will muses. Then he side-eyes Harry, his smirk sharpening. “Did she also raise you to make bets about sleeping with twin omegas before the end of the month?”

Harry sighs heavily, rolling his eyes. “No, Will. But, as you helpfully pointed out earlier, she did forget to give me brain cells when I was in the womb.”

Will barks out a laugh. “How could I forget?”

By the time they reach the outdoor movie night, a crowd has already gathered, students sprawled out on blankets and mingling. The hum of conversation blends with the faint rustling of the projector screen in the evening breeze.

Harry unrolls the blanket he brought, laying it out before dropping onto it. Will flops down beside him.

“What, no snacks?” Will complains, frowning.

Harry blinks. “Shit. I forgot.”

Will gasps dramatically. “Forgot?!” He shakes his head, clicking his tongue. “First tip for when you actually take Louis on a date—always bring snacks. How do you expect to woo any omega if you don’t feed them?”

Harry groans, flopping onto his back. “This is already so much work.”

Will grins. “That’s why you have me, Styles.”

Harry just hums, watching him through half-lidded eyes. “Lucky me.”

And for a fleeting moment—too fleeting—Will can’t tell if the alpha is talking about Louis at all.

Will shakes off the weird moment, shifting his focus back to the movie starting on the screen. But even as he tries to relax, he can feel Harry beside him, stretched out on the blanket, radiating warmth and alpha energy like it’s his second nature.

It’s a little annoying, really. Because Harry is annoying. And cocky. And an idiot.

An idiot who looks really good under the glow of the projector light.

Focus, Will.

He clears his throat. “Okay, lesson two,” he says, keeping his voice light. “You should probably, you know, talk to your date instead of sitting there like a lump.”

Harry tilts his head toward him, eyebrows raised. “Talk about what?”

Will gives him a look. “I don’t know, literally anything? Ask about their day? Pretend you care?”

“I do care.” Harry smirks. “I care about getting Louis in my bed. And you.”

Will scoffs. “And that is exactly why you need my help.”

Harry laughs, but then he shifts, propping himself up on one elbow, actually considering him. “Alright, fine. If I was taking Louis on a real date, what would he want to talk about?”

Will hums, tapping his chin dramatically. “Well, he likes books. He actually reads the required class material, so that’s already one thing you have in common.”

Harry makes a face. “I don’t like reading. I just read what I have to.”

“Yeah, well, Louis enjoys it. And he’s really into music—actual music, not just whatever’s playing at a frat party.”

“Hey, I have taste,” Harry argues. “I play the guitar.”

Will raises an eyebrow. “You own a guitar.”

Harry narrows his eyes. “I know chords.”

“Oh wow, a whole three of them? That’s so impressive,” Will teases, grinning when Harry rolls his eyes. “Anyway, my point is, if you actually want Louis to like you, you have to show interest in the stuff he likes. Otherwise, he’ll never take you seriously.”

Harry sighs. “Fine. I’ll ask him what his favorite book is or whatever.”

Will beams. “See? Baby steps.”

They sit in silence for a bit, the movie playing on the screen, but Will can feel Harry watching him again.

“What?” he finally asks, not looking away from the screen.

Harry shrugs. “I just don’t get why you’re helping me.”

Will smirks. “Because it’s fun.”

“Even if it means I win the bet?”

Will glances at him then, searching his face. “Let’s be real, Styles. You’re not going to win no matter what because the moment I sleep with you is the moment pigs fly. But where’s the fun in not messing with you a little?”

Harry considers that, lips twitching. “You really are a little shit.”

“I try,” Will says, all fake modesty.

But then, without thinking, he shifts slightly closer, and the scent of Harry—warm, heady, distinctly alpha—fills his senses. It sends a shiver down his spine before he can stop it.

And of course, Harry notices.

He smirks, leaning in just a little, voice dropping. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d think you were starting to fall for me.”

Will snorts, playing it off. “Please. I just want front-row seats when Louis finally cracks and realizes he wants you. It’s gonna be so satisfying.”

Harry chuckles. “You think it’ll happen?”

Will pauses. Then, slowly, he nods. “Yeah. I think it will.”

He tells himself he’s just playing along, just keeping things interesting. But as he watches Harry, all lazy confidence and warm eyes, he starts to wonder if he really believes Louis will crack.

Not that it matters. Harry’s not winning this bet—because there’s no way in hell Will is going to sleep with him.

It would be a lot easier to convince himself of that if Harry would stop looking at him like that—all soft smiles and something dangerously close to fondness.

***

The movie ends, and at some point—without even realizing it—Will has shifted closer to Harry, their thighs nearly brushing.

Not that he paid much attention to the movie anyway. His focus had been on the alpha beside him—the way he smelled, the way he looked in the dim light, the way his presence seemed to take up all the space around them.

And throughout the night, Will had learned more about Harry than he ever expected to. He learned that Harry was close with his alpha sister, Gemma. That his favorite color was blue. That the one movie guaranteed to make him cry was How to Train Your Dragon 2.

And the more he learned, the harder it became to keep up the whole Harry is just a cocky, arrogant asshole act. Because, fuck, maybe he wasn’t.

When Harry stands, he reaches down and grabs Will’s hands, pulling him up with ease. Will tells himself not to overthink it. Not to focus on how warm the alpha’s hands are, how steady.

Harry dusts off the blanket, shaking out the grass. “Well, this was… interesting. But I should head back to the frat.”

Will gapes at him. “Excuse me? You can’t just leave me here! You’re supposed to walk an omega home when it’s dark. What if a random alpha came along and swooped me up?”

“Oh. Right,” Harry says, as if the thought never even occurred to him.

Will rolls his eyes. “You act like you’ve never been on a date before.”

Harry hesitates, looking almost sheepish.

Will’s jaw drops. “Wait—you’ve seriously never been on a date?!”

Harry sighs. “Never felt the need. No omega has ever interested me enough past sex.”

Will smirks as they start walking back to the dorms. “Ooh, but you’re interested in me enough?”

Harry smirks right back. “This is a practice date, remember?”

Will hums, tilting his head as he walks beside Harry. “Mm, sure. Just a practice date.”

He doesn’t know why he says it like that—why he tries to get under Harry’s skin when he’s the one who suggested this whole thing in the first place. But something about the way Harry looks at him, the way he actually listens when Will speaks, the way he doesn’t even try to flirt when it’s just them… It’s all starting to feel a little too real.

Harry snorts. “What? You think I’m secretly in love with you now?”

Will side-eyes him, lips curling. “I know I’m a catch. Wouldn’t blame you.”

Harry laughs, shaking his head. “You’re unbelievable.”

They make it to the dorms, and Harry—surprisingly—doesn’t just leave him at the entrance. He actually walks Will up to his door, which is way more effort than Will expected from someone who’s never been on a real date.

Will leans against the frame, arms crossed, studying the alpha. “So. How do you think you did?”

Harry shrugs. “You tell me. You’re the expert, apparently.”

Will hums, pretending to think. “Well, you forgot snacks, so points off for that. And you almost left me alone in the dark, so that’s another strike. But you did open doors for me and put your hand on my back in that classic alpha way, which is like, Omega 101.”

Harry smirks. “So, I’m at least passable?”

Will grins. “Barely.”

For a moment, they just look at each other. Will can’t tell what’s going through Harry’s head, but his expression is softer than usual. Less cocky. Almost… thoughtful.

Before Will can figure out why that makes his stomach feel weird, he pushes off the doorframe. “Alright, good talk. Thanks for the practice date, lover boy.”

Harry scoffs. “Don’t call me that.”

“Oh, but it suits you,” Will teases, opening his door.

Harry shakes his head, turning to leave. “Night, Will.”

Will hesitates for half a second before calling out, “Night, Harry.”

And he tells himself he’s only smiling because he successfully messed with Harry’s head tonight.

Not because, deep down, a part of him actually enjoyed the date.

Louis

Louis isn’t jealous.

He just doesn’t understand why Will went on a date with Harry of all people. Will was supposed to be messing with him, leading him on for a laugh. That was the plan. But after last night, Louis isn’t so sure. Especially considering how Will practically floated into their dorm, looking all smug and—worse—pleased.

It’s not like it matters anyway. Will can do whatever he wants. Harry can do whatever he wants. Louis has better things to focus on—like his coursework, his grades, his future. Definitely not the way Harry’s curls frame his face, or how his hands are so big they could probably hold Louis down with ease, or the way his dimpled smile is unfairly—infuriatingly—cute.

Will had assured him it was nothing, that he was still just playing with Harry. But Louis knows his twin, and he knows what Will looks like when he actually likes someone.

And Harry? The Harry Styles? Louis doesn’t know what to think about that. Or about anything, really.

What he does know is that he has a paper due Monday, and it’s already Saturday, and he hasn’t even started.

So, he decides to go to the campus coffee shop to work on it, hoping the change of scenery will help him focus. He’s standing in line, minding his own business, when a presence looms behind him, the shift in energy making his skin prickle.

“Louis. What a nice surprise.”

Louis knows that voice. Deep. Slightly raspy. Infuriatingly smug.

He turns sharply, already scowling, to find Harry looking down at him with a smirk.

“Why do you always seem to magically appear wherever I go?” Louis demands. “Don’t you have something better to do than stalk me?”

Harry chuckles, all slow and easy. “Maybe I’m just drawn to you. Maybe it’s a sign.”

Louis crosses his arms, unimpressed. “Weird. You seemed pretty drawn to my brother last night.”

Harry laughs outright at that, like Louis is the most adorable thing he’s ever seen, which only makes Louis more annoyed.

“Do I detect a hint of jealousy?” Harry teases. “Because, babe, there’s more than enough of me to go around. I’m more than alpha enough to handle you and Will.” He leans in just slightly, voice dropping to a purr. “At the same time.”

Louis’ breath catches—just for a second—before he huffs and turns back toward the counter, ignoring the way his cheeks warm.

When it’s his turn, he flashes the barista a sweet smile. “Hi, can I get a medium iced chai latte with oat milk and marshmallow syrup?”

The barista glances between him and Harry. “Are you and your alpha on the same ticket?”

Louis nearly chokes while Harry barks out a laugh.

“He is not my alpha,” Louis grits out, eyes narrowing.

The barista winces. “Oh! I didn’t mean to—”

“It’s alright, babe,” Harry interrupts smoothly, throwing an arm around Louis’ shoulders. “What he meant to say is that I’m not his alpha—yet.”

Louis shoves his arm off and glares at him before pulling out his debit card—only for Harry to beat him to it, sliding his own across the counter.

“Don’t worry, omega,” Harry drawls, smirking. “I got it.”

Louis seethes as the barista rings them up, handing Harry’s card back. And just when he thinks he can finally get some peace, Harry follows him to a table outside like a persistent, oversized dog.

Louis refuses to acknowledge Harry as he settles into his seat, pulling out his laptop with deliberate focus. If he ignores him, maybe—just maybe—Harry will take the hint and leave.

But of course, that would require Harry to have an ounce of self-awareness, and Louis highly doubts that’s the case.

“So,” Harry starts, leaning back in his chair like he has all the time in the world, “when are you gonna let me take you on a date?”

Louis barely reacts, keeping his eyes on the screen as he types. “Not happening.”

Harry hums. “Shame. I think we’d have fun.”

“Doubt it.”

Harry chuckles, like he finds Louis’ attitude charming rather than annoying. “Alright, then. Maybe I’ll just ask Will out again.”

Louis’ fingers stutter over the keyboard before he tightens his jaw and keeps typing. “Fine. Do that.”

“Maybe I will.”

Louis hates how something sharp twists in his stomach. He doesn’t care what Harry does. He doesn’t care if Will goes out with him again. He doesn’t care.

Except—he does.

The words are out before he can stop them. “If I were to let you take me on a date—hypothetically—where would we go?”

Harry grins like he knew Louis wouldn’t let it go. “Hypothetically?”

Louis glares at him.

Harry hums in thought, tapping his fingers against his coffee cup. “Somewhere fun,” he decides. “I’m thinking a late-night drive to the lake, maybe some takeout, sitting on the hood of my car, watching the stars. Something good.”

Louis hates how appealing that sounds.

But then reality smacks him back into place.

He has schoolwork. He has responsibilities. He does not have time for cocky, dimpled alphas with stupidly pretty eyes and soft curls.

He exhales sharply, shaking his head. “Yeah, well, hypothetically speaking—it’s still not happening.”

Harry just smirks, standing up with his coffee in hand. “We’ll see, babe.”

Louis watches him walk away, annoyed—at Harry, at himself, at the way the idea of Harry taking Will out again makes his chest feel tight.

But none of that matters.

Because he’s sworn off alphas.

And he’s definitely sworn off Harry Styles.

Harry

Harry is going to try again.

It’s been two weeks since the bet, but at this point, he doesn’t care about that anymore. He just wants to take Louis out. He doesn’t know why he cares so much or why his inner alpha is so damn fixated on making both twins happy, but the need is there, clawing at him, persistent and impossible to ignore.

This time, though, he’s doing things his way.

Listening to Will’s advice has gotten him absolutely nowhere with Louis. If anything, it’s made Louis more resistant. But Harry isn’t an idiot. He might not have gone on a real date before—not counting the practice one with Will, which he enjoyed far more than he’s ready to admit—but he knows his instincts. He knows he has it in him to take care of an omega properly.

So he picks up Louis’ usual drink from the campus coffee shop and heads to the library, where he knows Louis will be.

Sure enough, he finds the omega tucked into a back corner, surrounded by books and looking ridiculously pretty. His feathery hair falls over his forehead, his glasses are perched on his nose, and his blue shirt is soft and worn in a way that makes Harry want to touch it. To touch him.

For a brief moment, Harry just watches him, admiring the way Louis’ nose scrunches as he focuses on whatever he’s reading. How is he real?

Then, he strides over and drops into the chair across from him.

Louis blinks up at him, clearly startled. His expression shifts from surprise to suspicion. “Harry—”

“Wait,” Harry interrupts, setting the drink down in front of him. “Just let me say something first. Then you can shoo me away like you normally do.”

Louis narrows his eyes but gives him a slight nod, so Harry takes a breath and goes for it.

“Look, I know you think I’m just some cocky, arrogant asshole,” he says. “And you’re not exactly wrong. But getting to know you—really know you—it makes me feel… different. Less like that guy I was before.” He rubs the back of his neck, suddenly aware of how fast his heart is beating. “My alpha—I—keep thinking about you. You’re you, Louis. Pretty and smart and sharp as hell. Unlike any omega I’ve ever met.”

Louis’ lips part slightly, but he doesn’t say anything, just keeps watching him, unreadable.

Harry exhales. “So, I’m trying one last time. And if you say no, I swear I’ll leave you alone forever. But will you please go on a date with me?”

Louis studies him carefully, blue eyes scanning him like he’s searching for any sign of a lie.

Harry can feel himself holding his breath.

Then, as if remembering something, he adds quickly, “Oh—and I got you your drink. An iced chai latte with oat milk and marshmallow syrup.”

Louis’ gaze flicks down to the cup in front of him. He doesn’t reach for it immediately, just stares at it. Then, slowly, he lifts it, taking a sip.

“You remembered my order?” he asks, voice softer now.

Harry shrugs, feigning nonchalance, but he feels the warmth creeping up his neck. “’Course I did.”

And then—finally—Louis smiles.

Not a smirk, not a teasing quirk of his lips, but a real, genuine smile, and Harry feels something inside him shift.

Louis glances back up at him, eyes glinting, and—“Okay.”

Harry furrows his brows. “Okay what?”

Louis’ grin widens. “I’ll go on a date with you.”

For a second, Harry doesn’t quite register the words. He’s been so prepared for rejection that it takes a beat for it to sink in. But then—then it does, and his own grin spreads across his face.

“Really?” He jumps to his feet, beaming. “Oh my god, Louis, you are not going to regret this.”

Louis smirks, taking another sip of his drink. “I better not.”

Harry points at him, backing away. “I’ll come by your dorm around seven tomorrow night, alright?”

“Don’t be late, Harry!”

Harry leaves the library feeling like he’s walking on air, grinning like an idiot for the rest of the day.

Louis

“I can’t believe you caved,” Will says, arms crossed as he watches Louis get ready.

Louis sighs, pulling on his best jeans. “He was just so sweet. And cute. And he remembered my drink order. What kind of alpha remembers that?”

“A desperate one,” Will mutters, scowling.

Louis pauses, catching the look on his twin’s face. He knows that expression all too well—it’s the same one he’s been trying to ignore on his own face since he agreed to this date.

“Are you jealous?” Louis asks, pulling a purple sweater over his head, carefully adjusting his hair.

Will scoffs. “Me? Jealous? Of Harry? Please. He’s just a stupid alpha.” He hesitates before adding begrudgingly, “A really hot stupid alpha.”

Louis isn’t convinced. He tilts his head, watching his brother closely. “You haven’t forgotten our plan, have you?”

Will frowns. “What plan?”

“Our alpha pact,” Louis says, exasperated. “That we wouldn’t bond an alpha unless he wanted to bond us both.”

Will rolls his eyes. “Yeah, I remember. So?”

“So,” Louis drags out the word, “if Harry is the one, then there’s nothing to be jealous about, because he’ll have to bond us both anyway. And if he’s not, then there’s still nothing to be jealous about, because it’ll just be a short fling.”

Will exhales, reluctantly nodding. “I guess you’re right.”

Before Louis can say anything else, a knock sounds at their dorm door. His stomach flips with excitement as he rushes to open it, revealing Harry looking obnoxiously good. He’s wearing a white sleeveless shirt under a flannel with the sleeves rolled up, showing off his tanned arms. His curls are perfectly tousled, and those green eyes shine as he grins at Louis.

“Hey, Lou. You ready to go?”

Louis can feel Will’s stare burning into them as Harry glances past him. “Hey, Will. You got any fun plans tonight?”

Will shrugs, deadpan. “Probably just watch some hardcore knotting porn and jerk off with my biggest dildo.”

Harry chokes on absolutely nothing, his face turning an impressive shade of red. Louis gapes at his twin before grabbing the nearest pillow and hurling it at him. “Can you ever—for once in your life—just say something normal?”

Will dodges the pillow, smirking. “What? I was just being honest.”

Louis groans, slipping on his shoes and stepping out with Harry before his brother can traumatize them further.

Just as the door swings shut behind him, Will calls out after them, voice dripping with amusement. “Don’t get pregnant, Lou! I’m not helping raise a baby in a dorm!”

Louis stumbles over his own feet as Harry outright wheezes beside him.

“Jesus Christ,” Louis mutters, burying his face in his hands.

Harry slings an arm around Louis’ shoulders, still laughing. “Is he actually gonna be doing that?”

“Probably,” Louis answers, because let’s be honest—Will was absolutely serious. He glances up at Harry, who suddenly looks a little dazed. Louis huffs and smacks his chest. “Stop picturing it before you pop a knot right here.”

Harry shakes his head quickly. “Right. Sorry.”

Louis rolls his eyes but lets it slide. “So, where are we going?” He asks as they step outside. He can feel the eyes of passing omegas on them, likely confused as to why Harry had been taking his twin out just last week and now him. But he doesn’t care. Right now, all his attention is on Harry.

“I told you,” Harry says easily. “Back at the coffee shop, when you wanted to know where I’d take you on a hypothetical date.”

Louis thinks back to that moment and hums. “Oh yeah. That did sound nice.”

Harry grins, holding the door open for him as they head to the parking lot. Louis blushes slightly at the gesture, but he keeps his head high, willing himself to act unfazed.

Then, Harry stops in front of the most expensive-looking car in the entire lot. Louis blinks.

“This is yours?”

Harry shrugs, looking a little sheepish. “Yeah, my parents are kinda loaded. It’s a restored ‘69 Camaro.”

Louis lets out a low whistle, running a hand over the sleek exterior before giving Harry a pointed look. “It’s nice, but don’t think a flashy car is the way to get in my pants, Styles.”

Harry throws his head back with a laugh and then, still grinning, pulls open the passenger door. “Damn, there goes that plan.”

Louis flushes again but slides into the seat, biting back a smile.

For the first time in a long time, he’s letting himself take a break from school, from expectations, from everything weighing on him. And as Harry starts the engine and pulls out of the lot, Louis feels something rare settle in his chest—something light and warm.

He has a good feeling about this date.

***

Louis doesn’t know if he’s ever been this happy after a first date. Ever.

He had so much fun, and Harry is nothing like he expected. Yes, the alpha had come off as a cocky prick at first, but tonight? Tonight, he was nothing but sweet, thoughtful, and—dare he say—gentlemanly.

They had grabbed sushi to go and eaten it by the lake near campus, the water reflecting the moonlight as they talked and laughed. Louis learned that Harry is incredibly close with his omega mum, that his favorite show is New Girl, and that his dream—however ridiculous it might sound to some—is to be a famous singer.

There’s so much more to Harry than Louis first thought. It almost makes him feel bad for judging him so quickly.

Later, they had laid back on the grass, looking up at the stars. Louis had pointed out constellations, explaining them in detail, and Harry had just smiled, nodding along like he was listening to the most interesting thing in the world. It made something warm settle in Louis’ chest, something unfamiliar but nice.

Now, as they walk back to his dorm, Harry keeps a light but instinctive hand on his back, guiding him. Louis likes how natural it feels—how right it feels.

“Think Will’s still up?” Harry asks, glancing at the time on his phone.

Louis checks too. 10:34 PM. “Nah. He probably tired himself out with that dildo. Three orgasms and then out like a light.” He snickers, because, well—he knows his twin.

Harry chokes on absolutely nothing. “Right. Um. Good for him.”

Louis smirks. “I don’t care if you think it’s hot, Harry. Honestly, I’d be offended if you didn’t. We do look exactly alike.”

Harry lets out a long breath like he’s been holding it in all night. “Okay, fine. It’s really fucking hot.”

Louis chuckles, but then his tone softens. “You know… he was jealous about us going out tonight.”

That gets Harry’s attention. He whips his head toward him. “He was?”

Louis hums. “Mhm. He didn’t say it, but I know my brother. He definitely likes you too.”

Harry smirks as they reach his dorm. “Too, huh? So, you like me then?”

Louis holds his gaze, lips quirking up. “This date definitely made you more tolerable.”

Harry grins. “Ah, I see how it is.” His eyes flicker down to Louis’ lips before meeting his again, voice dipping lower. “Louis, can I kiss you?”

Louis doesn’t hesitate. He nods, and then Harry is leaning in, closing the space between them.

The moment their lips meet, Louis feels his body ignite. His omega purrs at the touch, warmth flooding his chest as he melts into the slow, deep kiss. It’s not rushed, not desperate—just good. Perfect.

It ends far too soon, leaving Louis breathless, lips tingling. He bites back a whine at the loss, but Harry, looking just as dazed, steals one last soft peck before pulling away completely.

“Goodnight, Louis,” he murmurs.

Louis barely manages a response before Harry turns and heads down the hall. He stumbles inside, heart racing, unable to stop the ridiculous smile spreading across his face.

He feels like a bloody teenager with his first crush. And for once? He doesn’t even care.

It feels good—better than he’s felt about an alpha in a long time.

With a dreamy sigh, he flops onto his bed. When he turns his head, he immediately spots Will sprawled out, shirtless, blankets barely covering his lower half. A very used knotting dildo lays discarded beside him.

Louis groans, rolling his eyes. “Fucking hell, Will.”

No response. Will’s out.

It takes a while for Louis to settle, his mind still spinning with the night’s events, but eventually, he drifts off—dreaming of green eyes and soft curls.

Harry

Harry is freaking out.

Big time.

Because he’s never felt like this before. Ever.

He doesn’t just want Louis—he likes him. Not in a hook up, mess around, see where it goes kind of way, but in a date him, bond him, put a baby in him kind of way. And that realization is terrifying.

Louis is just—so much. So pretty, so soft, so smart, and so fucking kind that it makes Harry want to be better.

And last night? Last night was perfect. He’s never had a date like that before. Never felt so comfortable just sitting with someone, talking for hours. He could watch Louis forever and never get bored.

It’s too much to keep in, so he heads downstairs to vent.

Niall and Jake are playing video games on the couch, while Liam lounges in the recliner, Zayn curled up in his lap like the spoiled omega he is.

Harry throws himself into the recliner across from them and lets out a loud, dramatic groan.

No one reacts.

So he does it again, even louder.

Still nothing.

“What?” Niall finally grumbles, eyes glued to the screen.

“I’m in deep shit,” Harry declares, dropping his face into his hands.

“What now?” Liam sighs, lazily rubbing Zayn’s thigh.

Harry lifts his head, looking at them helplessly. “I can’t stop thinking about the twins.”

Zayn narrows his eyes. “If this is about the bet, I swear to god, Harry—”

“It’s not about the bet,” Harry interrupts quickly. “I think I’m falling for them.”

That gets their attention.

Jake, the frat president, pauses the game. “Shit. Really?”

Harry nods, running a hand through his curls. “I took Will out on that practice date last week, and—it didn’t feel like practice at all. It felt real. And then last night, with Louis… it was fucking magical.”

Niall barks out a laugh. “Magical? Careful, Styles, you might start slicking yourself.”

Harry glares at him. “Shut up.”

“So, you really like Louis?” Liam asks, studying him.

“I do,” Harry admits, no hesitation.

“What about Will?” Zayn questions, brow raised.

Harry exhales. “That’s… complicated. He gives me mixed signals, but my inner alpha won’t stop thinking about him either. Like, I don’t even care about the stupid bet anymore. I just want them to like me.”

Liam shakes his head, looking at him in disbelief. “Wow. I’ve never seen you like this before. You’ve never paid attention to an omega past fucking them.”

Harry huffs out a breath. “Yeah, well. Guess that’s changed.”

Zayn folds his arms. “Harry, I’m glad you finally grew a brain and realized how dumb this bet was, but you have to tell Louis the truth. If you don’t, he’ll never trust you. And you need to tell both of them how you feel.”

Harry groans, sinking further into the chair. Because he knows Zayn is right.

He has to be honest.

But he’s not sure if he has the balls to actually do it.

Will

Will is walking back from the skate park, skateboard tucked under his arm, when a familiar scent catches his nose.

A scent his omega stupidly likes way too much.

He already knows who it is before he even looks up.

“Styles.”

“Tomlinson,” Harry greets smoothly, a smirk tugging at his lips. Then, without missing a beat, he adds, “You know, I find an omega who skateboards very hot.”

Will fights the heat creeping up his neck. Since when did he start blushing at every cocky thing this alpha says?

He rolls his eyes, forcing himself to sound unimpressed. “What do you want, Harry?”

Harry hesitates for half a second, then blurts out, “Come to the lake with me.”

Will blinks. “What?”

“The lake,” Harry repeats, almost like he’s in a rush. “Come with me.”

“Right now?”

“Yeah, right now. We can take my car.”

Will hesitates. He knows Harry is up to something—what, exactly, he can’t say. But his omega doesn’t care. It’s practically screaming at him to say yes, to let himself give in just this once.

And, well. A swim does sound nice.

“Alright, fine,” he sighs.

Harry’s face lights up with a grin, and before Will can think too hard about it, the alpha grabs his hand, pulling him toward his car.

And Will definitely doesn’t notice how warm Harry’s hand is. Or how it completely engulfs his.

Nope. Not at all.

***

“So why the lake?” Will asks as they step out of the car.

The view is stunning, the water calm under the fading light. There aren’t many people on this side, just the two of them and the gentle lapping of waves against the shore.

Harry hesitates, looking nervous for a split second before composing himself. “It’s a nice day,” he says smoothly. “And I like your company.”

Will snorts, rolling his eyes. “Sure.”

Kicking off his shoes, he lets his toes sink into the warm sand. He tugs his t-shirt over his head and tosses it onto the hood of Harry’s car. When he glances back at Harry, he catches the alpha staring directly at his bare chest.

Will smirks. “See something you like, Styles?”

Harry’s gaze drags up to meet his, and instead of looking sheepish, he just smirks right back. “Yeah, I do,” he says, licking his lips. Then his brows furrow. “Wait, you’re actually going in the water?”

“You’re not?” Will raises a brow. “I thought that was the whole point.”

“I didn’t really think about it,” Harry admits, rubbing the back of his neck. “I’ll probably just stay on the shore.”

Will shrugs. “Suit yourself.”

He slides off his joggers and chucks them aside.

He’s very aware of Harry’s gaze still on him, and for once, he’s grateful he opted for boxer briefs today instead of his usual lace panties. He might be more masculine than most male omegas, but his skin is sensitive, and silkier fabrics just feel better.

But every last pair was in the laundry, so boxers it is. And while Will is confident, he’s not sure if he’s ready for Harry to see him in something that intimate just yet.

Still, even in plain boxer briefs, Harry is gawking. His eyes are glued to Will’s ass, lips slightly parted.

Will smirks. “Changing your mind?”

Harry blinks as if snapping out of a trance. “Yeah,” he says, dazed. “Maybe I will get in the water.”

Will laughs, making his way toward the lake. The cool water glides over his feet, and once he gets used to the temperature, he wades in deeper until it reaches his waist.

When he turns around, Harry is kicking off his jeans, and—fuck.

Will has seen Harry shirtless before, sure, but it still hits like a punch to the gut every time. The broad shoulders, toned muscles, sculpted abs, and inked skin—it’s the kind of body that has omegas drooling on sight.

Including Will.

But the real problem?

Harry’s boxer briefs are tight. And white. And clinging to every defined inch of him, leaving absolutely nothing to the imagination.

Will’s brain stutters. His stomach flips. He definitely feels a slick gathering between his thighs, and he really hopes the water is enough to mask the scent.

Harry wades in until he’s right in front of him, smiling. “Feels nice here.”

“In the water?” Will asks, trying to focus on anything else.

The alpha hesitates for a moment. “That too.”

Will blushes, and he prays Harry doesn’t notice. But of course, the alpha does.

Harry grins. “You know, as much as I love your confident, sassy side, I really like seeing the soft, blushing omega side of you too.”

Will expects cockiness in his tone, but there’s none. He’s genuine.

Will looks away, voice quieter when he admits, “Not many people see this side of me. Really, only Louis has.”

“I do feel lucky,” Harry murmurs. His eyes search Will’s face like he’s memorizing every little reaction. “You know, sometimes, when you let your guard down, it almost seems like you like me.”

Will scoffs, though there’s still a grin on his lips. “Now how could you ever get that impression? Sounds like I need to do a better job messing with you.”

Before Harry can respond, Will pinches his nose and ducks under the water. He resurfaces, running his hands over his face to wipe the water from his eyes—then smirks.

And shakes his head directly at Harry, sending water droplets flying all over him.

Harry sputters, momentarily stunned, before grabbing Will’s waist with a laugh. “You little shit.”

“Sorry,” Will giggles, looking up at him.

Harry just smiles down at him, brushing a wet lock of hair out of Will’s face.

Will’s breath catches.

They’re close. Too close. And Harry’s hand is still on his jaw, his thumb brushing over his cheek like he wants something.

Will can’t take it anymore.

He surges forward, pressing their lips together.

Harry stills for a moment, like he wasn’t expecting it, but then he melts into the kiss. He tugs Will flush against him, chest to chest, deepening it with a soft growl.

Will loops his arms around Harry’s neck, letting the alpha take control. He may be confident, but at the end of the day, he’s still an omega, and his instincts purr at the way Harry is holding him.

They move together in sync, lips sliding, heat rising. It’s different from every other kiss Will has had before—more intense, all-consuming, like he could kiss Harry forever and never get tired of it.

Harry growls again, rougher this time, the sound vibrating through Will’s chest.

Harry groans, voice thick with want. “Fuck, Will. You smell so fucking good.”

The words shoot straight through him, making his thighs clench as even more slick drips from his hole. Shit.

And Will whines.

The second it slips out, his whole body freezes in horror.

He never whines for alphas. Ever.

He pulls back, eyes wide.

But Harry doesn’t look put off. In fact, he looks dazed, pupils blown, lips swollen and wet. “Your whine is so sexy, babe.”

Before Will can process that, Harry is kissing him again, and this time, Will doesn’t stop himself from getting lost in it.

They make out for what feels like forever, until the sky darkens around them and the lake shimmers under the moonlight.

Finally, Harry pulls back, breath heavy. “We should probably head back soon. It’s getting dark.”

Will blinks, looking around. He hadn’t even noticed.

They wade out of the water in a daze, throwing their clothes back on before heading for the car.

The entire drive back, Will stares out the window, heart pounding.

Because fuck.

What the hell just happened?

And why did it feel so perfect?

Harry

Holy shit.

He really is falling for both of them.

Taking Will to the lake was supposed to be a test—a way to figure out if his feelings were just for Louis, if his attraction to Will was only surface-level. But now?

Now, he’s fucked.

Because it’s not just Louis. It’s Will too.

The way Will lets his guard down, just a little, just enough for Harry to see the soft, vulnerable side hidden beneath all the confidence—it makes Harry’s chest ache. And the way he laughs? It has his inner alpha howling, ready to bond him right then and there.

He doesn’t know what to do.

He knows he needs to tell Louis about the bet. Soon. But the thought of it makes his stomach churn. What if Louis never forgives him? What if he loses his chance completely?

And even beyond that—how the hell is he supposed to tell both twins that he wants them? Not one or the other. Both.

They’ll laugh in his face. They’ll think it’s just another game to him.

But the idea of choosing? Letting one of them go?

His inner alpha rejects it. The thought alone has something primal clawing inside him, demanding he keep them both close. That he make them his.

He exhales shakily, gripping the steering wheel tighter.

He has to do this right.

He’ll tell Louis about the bet. He has to. But not yet.

Not until the month is over—when the bet is meaningless, when there’s nothing standing in his way. By then, he’ll have proven to both of them that this isn’t some game. That what he feels for them is real.

And then…

Then, he’ll tell them everything.

Louis

Life has been great.

School is going well, his grades are exactly where he wants them, and his dates with Harry have been amazing. The alpha has taken him to the movies, the roller rink, and a charming little ice cream shop. And each time, Louis has had the best time.

They joke, they have long, theoretical debates, they understand each other. Harry makes him feel safe in a way no other alpha ever has.

Of course, Louis isn’t oblivious. He knows Harry has been taking Will out too. But instead of jealousy, all Louis feels is hope. Because if Will likes Harry, and Harry likes them both—then maybe, just maybe, they’ve found their alpha.

The thought excites him. Which is odd, because he’s never wanted to bond an alpha before. He’s always been so focused on his work, his future—he never let himself think about love.

But with Harry… it’s different.

Wanting to surprise him, Louis picks up takeout from Harry’s favorite spot and heads to the frat house. He knocks, and a friendly-looking blond alpha answers the door.

“Hey… which one are you again?” the alpha asks, looking genuinely confused.

“Louis,” he supplies with a polite smile. “Is Harry here?”

The alpha shakes his head. “Nah, but he should be back soon. You can wait inside if you want.”

“Sure, thanks.” Louis steps inside, glancing around. Beer bottles litter the floor, posters and decorations hang on the walls—most of them either beer-related or omega-related.

“I’m Niall,” the blond says, smiling. He must notice Louis taking it all in because he adds, “You’ve never been in a frat house before, have you?”

Louis chuckles sheepishly. “Nah. Frat parties aren’t really my thing. I’m more of the studious bookworm type.”

“Yeah, Harry told me that. Wouldn’t shut up about how smart you are. Eventually, we all just left the room ‘cause he kept going on and on about it,” Niall tells him with a smirk.

Louis flushes red. “Harry’s too nice.”

“He really likes you. Both of you,” Niall says with a knowing smile.

Louis can’t help but grin, warmth spreading through his chest. But before he can respond, another alpha comes bounding down the stairs.

The alpha smirks as he sees Louis. “You must be here for Harry, yeah?”

Louis nods slowly, thrown off by the way the guy is looking at him—like he knows something Louis doesn’t.

“So it looks like Harry’s accomplished at least half the bet,” the alpha says casually.

Louis stills.

He watches as Niall’s eyes widen in horror, his hand flying to his throat in a clear shut the fuck up gesture.

“Shit, I didn’t think he had it in him,” the other alpha adds with a chuckle.

Niall snarls. “Jake.”

Louis blinks. His stomach twists. “What… bet?”

Niall sighs, opening his mouth—but before he can speak, the door swings open.

Harry steps inside, smiling when he sees Louis. “Hey, babe, what are you doing here?”

He moves to kiss him, but Louis steps back, arms crossing tightly over his chest.

“What are they talking about, Harry?” he asks, voice sharp. “This knothead over here mentioned some bet.”

“Hey,” Jake protests, sounding mildly offended.

Louis ignores him. He’s too busy watching the way Harry’s smile drops—the way guilt settles over his features like a storm cloud.

“Look, Louis, the bet doesn’t even matter anymore,” Harry pleads. “It means nothing.”

Louis’ jaw tightens. “What bet, Harry?”

Harry rubs the back of his neck, hesitating. “Just know that I’ve changed. It doesn’t mean anything now.”

Louis stares at him, waiting.

Finally, Harry exhales heavily and says, “I stupidly made a bet three weeks ago with some of my frat brothers that I could sleep with you and Will by the end of the month.”

The floor drops out from under him.

His chest tightens, stomach twisting into knots.

He’s been so stupid.

He actually believed Harry was different. That he liked Louis. That he was a good alpha.

The takeout bag nearly slips from his grip as his vision blurs with tears. The humiliation burns so hot he can feel it in his bones.

“I— I have to go,” he chokes out.

He barely registers setting the food down on the coffee table before he turns for the door.

“Louis, please. Let me explain. It’s not like that,” Harry begs, desperation thick in his voice.

Louis whirls around, his whole body trembling. “Then what is it like, Harry? Because from where I’m standing, it looks like you got me to trust you, made me fall for you, all so you could fuck me for some stupid bet.” His voice cracks. “Was any of it real?”

Harry looks wrecked. “Louis, please—”

“Save it.” Louis shakes his head, tears spilling freely down his cheeks. “Just… leave me alone.”

And then he’s out the door, ignoring the way Harry calls after him.

He barely notices the stares as he makes his way back to his dorm, chest heaving, sobs racking through him.

He doesn’t care.

He just wants to be alone.

*** 

Of course, he can’t be alone. Not when he shares a dorm with his twin.

When Louis bursts through the door, Will is sprawled out on his bed, scrolling through his phone. He looks up at the sudden commotion, brows drawing together in confusion—then concern when he sees Louis’ tear-streaked face.

“What’s wrong?” Will asks, sitting up immediately.

But Louis is furious. His sadness twists into something sharp and burning inside him, and he can’t hold back the accusation bubbling up in his throat.

“Did you know?” he demands, voice shaking with rage.

Will’s brows furrow. “Know about what?”

“Did you know about that stupid bet Harry made? Is that why you were helping him?” He spits the words like they taste bitter on his tongue.

Will sighs, rubbing his face. “I… I knew about the bet.”

Louis feels like the floor has been ripped out from under him again.

It was bad enough that Harry had deceived him. But Will? His twin, his other half—the one person he thought he could always trust?

His whole world tilts. His breath comes shallow. His vision blurs again, but this time, it isn’t just heartbreak—it’s betrayal.

“Why?” His voice cracks, raw and disbelieving. “Why would you do that to me? Was this your plan all along? Get me to fall for him while you two laughed about it behind my back?”

Will’s face falls. “No, Louis, it wasn’t like that. I would never do that to you. You’re my brother. I love you.” He reaches out as if to comfort him, but Louis jerks away, crossing the room to sit stiffly on his own bed.

“Well, it doesn’t feel like love,” Louis bites out. His whole body trembles as he buries his face in his hands. “You let me believe he actually liked me. That he could be our alpha. Do you know how much this hurts? My omega is screaming at me right now.” His voice breaks into a sob, shoulders shaking.

Will’s eyes start to water, guilt washing over his face. “I’m so sorry, Lou. I should have told you. I was only messing with him at first—I didn’t think you’d actually start liking him back.”

Louis lets out a sharp, bitter laugh. “Is that supposed to make me feel better?” He lifts his head, eyes red and furious. “Because it doesn’t. You’re my twin, Will. I trusted you. And you let me down.”

“Louis—”

“Just leave me alone.” His voice is final, exhausted.

“But, Lou, we have to talk about this—”

Louis doesn’t respond. He just reaches for his headphones, shoving them on to drown Will out. He curls into himself, tucking his knees to his chest, and lets the tears take over.

His body shakes with silent sobs, and eventually, exhaustion pulls him under.

But even in sleep, the pain lingers.

Harry

Harry is such a fucking idiot.

He knew this would happen. He knew the truth would come out eventually, and yet he let himself believe he had time—that if he waited until after the month was over, it wouldn’t matter anymore. That he could prove himself first.

But now? Now, Louis won’t even look at him.

It’s been days, and the omega has completely shut him out. He doesn’t show up at the library after class anymore, doesn’t respond to texts, doesn’t even acknowledge him when they pass each other on campus. The one time Harry showed up at his dorm, he knocked for twenty minutes straight—no answer. But he knew Louis was inside. His scent had been right there, just on the other side of the door, and yet Louis ignored him like he didn’t even exist.

Even Will has gone radio silent. No teasing smirks in the hallways, no playful jabs, no messages. Nothing. It’s like they’ve both erased him from their lives overnight.

And Harry is losing his fucking mind.

His alpha is restless, furious at him for ruining everything. The ache in his chest is unbearable, a constant dull throb that refuses to fade. Every instinct in him screams to fix this, to apologize, to get to them—but he doesn’t know how.

For the first time in his life, he doesn’t know what to do.

He’s spiraling. He hasn’t been to class in days, hasn’t set foot at the frat, hasn’t gone to a single event. Niall keeps checking on him, but Harry brushes him off every time. What’s the point? He doesn’t care about anything that isn’t them.

His clothes reeks of their scent, faded but lingering—Louis’ soft, sweet warmth and Will’s sharper, spicier edge. It’s torture. He lays in his bed, sniffing their scents for hours, staring at the ceiling, replaying every moment he spent with them, every laugh, every touch, every chance he had to tell the truth but didn’t.

He could have fixed this. He should have fixed this. But now, it’s too late.

Unless…

No. No. It’s not too late. He refuses to accept that.

They’re his. His omegas. He felt it every time he was with them—that pull, that rightness. He knows they felt it too. That kind of connection doesn’t just disappear.

He just has to prove it.

Harry sits up abruptly, heart pounding. He will win them back. He has to. He’ll do whatever it takes—beg, grovel, prove that he’s not just some cocky alpha who made a stupid mistake.

He loves them. He knows that now, with a certainty that settles deep in his bones. And if they give him the chance, he’ll spend the rest of his life making it up to them.

But first, he has to figure out how to get them to listen.

***

Harry hates that it’s come to this.

Standing on a table in the middle of a frat party, about to air his most embarrassing, gut-wrenching mistake to a room full of drunken idiots—this is not how he wanted to win them back.

But Will is Will, and Will loves attention.

So if Harry has any chance of getting through to him, of making Will listen—he has to do something big.

So he waits, watches from the edge of the party until Will is in the perfect mood. Just tipsy enough, laughing at something one of his friends said, soaking up the attention without a care in the world.

Then, just as the music dips between songs, Harry goes for it.

He climbs onto the nearest table, cups his hands around his mouth, and yells.

“Alright, listen up!”

The room stills. Conversations pause. Someone whistles. A few people laugh, recognizing Harry immediately.

Will turns, brows lifting. His lips twitch like he’s already amused. “What the hell is this?” he calls out.

Harry takes a deep breath. “This is me being a complete idiot in front of everyone because I have something to say.” He scans the room before locking eyes with Will. “And it’s for you.”

A few people gasp. Someone murmurs, oh, shit. The attention is fully on them now.

Will straightens a little, and despite the teasing curve of his lips, there’s something almost… hesitant in his eyes. Like he wasn’t expecting this.

“I fucked up,” Harry continues, voice strong but honest. “I made a stupid bet. I hurt you. I hurt Louis. And I don’t think I’ll ever forgive myself for that.” He swallows, his alpha clawing at him, desperate to fix this. “But I need you to know that it was never a game to me. Not for long. Because somewhere along the way, I stopped playing.”

Will’s smirk falters, just a fraction.

Harry climbs off the table and walks toward him, the crowd parting as he moves.

“I never lied to you,” Harry says, softer now. “You knew about the bet. And I know that you’re not actually mad about that. You’re mad because I hurt Louis. And because you think I don’t deserve him.” He exhales. “And maybe I don’t. But I do know one thing.”

Will lifts his chin slightly, his usual cocky demeanor cracking. “Yeah?”

Harry takes another step closer, holding his gaze. “I care about you. Both of you. More than I’ve ever cared about anyone in my life. And I know I have a lot to make up for, but I need you to hear this—I love Louis.” His voice wobbles, but he keeps going. “And I love you, too.”

Will visibly stiffens. His teasing mask slips completely.

A hush falls over the room. A few people exchange wide-eyed glances.

Will swallows, blinking rapidly. “You—” He stops, clears his throat. “You love me?”

“Yes,” Harry says, because it’s the truth. “I do.”

Will shifts on his feet. He crosses his arms, then uncrosses them like he doesn’t know what to do with himself. He darts a glance at the people around them, who are very invested in the moment, before looking back at Harry.

“…You’re really doing this here?” he asks, voice quieter.

Harry huffs a small laugh. “It’s you, Will. You love a public spectacle.”

Will hesitates, like he wants to argue, but then he lets out a breathless laugh. “You know me too well,” he mutters, looking almost flustered.

Harry’s heart clenches. He takes a cautious step closer. “I don’t expect you to forgive me right away,” he says, voice gentle. “But I needed you to hear it. I needed everyone to hear it. Because I want you to know that this isn’t just some act to get back in your good graces. I’m serious about you. About Louis. About both of you.”

Will’s fingers twitch at his sides. His expression is unreadable, but there’s a hint of something vulnerable there, something real beneath the teasing.

Finally, he lets out a breath. “You’re an idiot,” he mumbles, but there’s no real bite to it.

Harry smiles, just a little. “Yeah,” he agrees. “But I’m your idiot. If you’ll have me.”

Will exhales through his nose, then shakes his head, laughing softly. “God, you’re so lucky that I love dramatic shit,” he mutters.

Harry’s breath catches.

Will glances at him, then rolls his eyes. “No, I’m not saying I forgive you,” he clarifies quickly. “You still have a lot to prove.” He crosses his arms again, but this time, it’s more like he’s steadying himself. “But you’re off to a decent start.”

Harry grins, his chest finally loosening. “Decent?”

Will tilts his head, considering. Then, smirking just slightly, he leans in, voice barely above a whisper.

“If you really want to get back in my good graces,” he murmurs, “you’ll have to do something even bigger for Louis.”

Harry shivers.

Will steps back, the teasing gleam returning to his eyes. “Good luck with that.”

Louis

Louis feels numb.

His emotions are tangled, a mess of anger, longing, and betrayal that he can’t begin to sort through. He’s hurt, but at the same time, his omega aches for Harry, desperate for his presence, his touch, his voice. Every time he thinks about the alpha, something in his chest clenches—like a wound that refuses to heal but still hurts to ignore.

He knows Harry has tried—tried to talk to him, tried to explain—but Louis hasn’t been able to face him. Not yet. Because no matter how many times he replays everything in his head, he still can’t decipher what was real and what was just part of that stupid bet.

And that’s what hurts the most.

Will, at least, is easier to forgive. He was an ass, and Louis had been furious with him, but Will is his twin, his other half. At the end of the day, no matter how angry he gets, he can’t stay mad at Will forever.

But Harry?

Harry changed everything.

Louis had sworn off alphas. He’d always thought they were arrogant, self-serving distractions. And then Harry waltzed into his life—charming, persistent, infuriating—and turned his entire world upside down. And to find out it was all just a bet, that the connection Louis had thought was special had started as nothing more than a game… it crushed him.

He needs to clear his head.

So he goes to his favorite spot on campus—the secluded little tire swing overlooking the pond. It’s his hidden sanctuary, the one place he can breathe when the world feels too heavy.

When he gets there, he spreads out a blanket beneath the swing, ready to lose himself in a book. But as he reaches to sit down, he notices something nestled inside the tire—a book, wrapped with a bow.

His heart stutters.

Slowly, he reaches for it, fingers trembling. The cover is worn and floppy, exactly how he likes his books, and when he turns it over, his breath catches.

Flowers in the Attic.

His favorite book.

A note is tucked beneath the bow. Carefully, hesitantly, he peels it off and unfolds it. His hands shake as he reads.

Louis,

I know you don’t want to hear from me, and I don’t deserve for you to. But if I could say one thing, it would be this: I never meant to hurt you. I never wanted to break your trust. And I never thought, in a million years, that I would fall for you like this.

The bet was a mistake. The biggest mistake of my life. But everything after that? That was real. Every time I looked at you, every time I wanted to be near you, every time I thought about what it would be like to be yours—that was real.

I would spend forever proving that to you if you’d let me.

—Harry

Louis inhales sharply.

His vision blurs as tears well up, and he angrily wipes at his cheeks, frustrated with himself for feeling anything other than anger. But the letter… the book… Harry…

It explains so much.

And God, he misses him.

He wants to run to him, to let himself forgive and melt into Harry’s arms, to kiss his stupid pouty lips and pretend like none of it ever happened.

But the ache in his chest reminds him that it did happen. And as much as he wants to let go, he doesn’t know if he’s ready.

So he clutches the book to his chest, curls up on his blanket, and stares out at the water—conflicted, confused, and more lost than ever.

***

Louis sits on his bed, staring at the copy of Flowers in the Attic in his lap. The note is still tucked between the pages, like if he closes the book too fast, the words will disappear. His fingers trace over the handwriting—Harry’s handwriting—and his chest aches.

He doesn’t know what to do. He’s still angry, still hurt, but his omega aches for Harry, for the warmth of his touch, for the way he made Louis feel safe, even when Louis knew better than to trust an alpha.

“Are you gonna keep sighing dramatically, or are you gonna talk to me about it?”

Louis glares up at Will, who’s lying upside down on his bed, legs kicked up against the wall, scrolling through his phone like he doesn’t have a care in the world.

“I’m not sighing dramatically,” Louis mutters, shifting the book onto his nightstand.

“You kinda are.” Will tosses his phone onto his stomach and rolls onto his side, propping himself up on his elbow. “Let me guess. Harry left you some grand romantic gesture and now you’re all torn up inside because you miss him, but you’re still mad?”

Louis presses his lips together and looks away. Will always knows. It’s annoying.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Will snorts. “Right. Because it totally wasn’t you sitting here for the last hour staring at that book like it holds the secrets of the universe.”

Louis throws a pillow at him. Will lets it hit his face and then slowly pulls it off with a smirk.

“Just say you miss him.”

Louis clenches his jaw. He does, but admitting it makes him feel weak, like he’s letting Harry get away with breaking his trust.

“I miss who I thought he was.” It comes out bitter, but also a little defeated.

Will sighs, sitting up. “Look, Lou, I get why you’re mad, but…” He hesitates, then scoots closer. “You do know he’s in love with you, right?”

Louis’ heart stutters in his chest. “He’s in love with you too,” he points out.

Will shrugs. “Yeah, but I’m easier to love.” He grins, but there’s something soft in his eyes. “You’re the one he’s breaking himself over.”

Louis swallows hard, his walls cracking just a little.

“He shouldn’t have made the bet,” Will continues, “but he was a dumb frat alpha at the time. And yeah, it was shitty, but—” he pauses, then nudges Louis’ knee—“he changed, Lou. You changed him.”

Louis looks down at his hands. He knows. That’s what makes it so much worse.

Will watches him for a second, then tilts his head. “Tell me this—if you never found out about the bet, would you have been happy with him?”

Louis closes his eyes. “Yeah,” he admits quietly.

“Then what’s stopping you?”

Louis glares at him again. “Are you seriously asking me that? I trusted him.”

“And he’s been doing everything to earn that trust back.” Will flops back onto his bed. “You’re just being stubborn at this point.”

“I am not—”

“Yes, you are.” Will stretches his arms over his head. “Which is why I’ve decided to take matters into my own hands.”

Louis narrows his eyes. “What does that mean?”

Will grins. It’s never good when he grins like that.

“It means,” he says, grabbing his phone and tapping away, “that I just texted Harry to meet us at the coffee shop in fifteen minutes.”

Louis’ stomach plummets. “You what?!”

“Come on, Lou,” Will groans. “You’re not gonna make a decision unless you see him. And if you see him and still want nothing to do with him, then fine. But at least give yourself the chance to decide.”

Louis glares at him, his whole body stiff with panic. “I hate you.”

Will beams. “I know. Now get up—we’ve got a heartbroken alpha to fix.”

Will

Will leans back in the booth, watching as Harry waits in line to order their drinks. The alpha looks rough—his curls are a mess, his jawline dusted with stubble, and the dark circles under his eyes make it clear he hasn’t been sleeping.

Good. He should be suffering a little.

Across from him, Louis sits stiffly, arms crossed tight over his chest, his leg bouncing beneath the table. His eyes flicker toward the door, like he’s already mapping out his escape route.

Will sighs. This is gonna be a lot of work.

He nudges Louis’ foot under the table. “Don’t even think about it.”

Louis huffs, turning his glare on Will. “I can’t do this.”

“Yes, you can.”

“No, I can’t.” His voice wavers, his grip tightening on the edge of the table. “I don’t even know what to say to him. I don’t even know what I want.”

Will levels him with a look. “You do know what you want. You just don’t wanna admit it.”

Louis’ scowl deepens, but he doesn’t argue.

“You don’t have to forgive him today,” Will continues. “You don’t have to make a decision at all. Just talk to him. See where it goes.”

Louis exhales sharply. “And what if I still can’t forgive him?”

Will shrugs. “Then at least you’ll know instead of sitting around feeling like shit about it.”

Louis bites his lip, eyes flicking toward the counter where Harry is ordering. “You told him to get our drinks first on purpose, didn’t you?”

Will smirks. “Obviously. Gives you a minute to panic before you have to face him.”

Louis glares. “I hate you.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Will waves him off. “Now, are you gonna stay put, or do I have to hold you down?”

Louis mutters something under his breath but doesn’t move. Will takes that as a win.

A moment later, Harry returns, carefully setting two iced chai lattes in front of them. “Here,” he says, voice a little hesitant. “Iced chai with oat milk and marshmallow syrup.”

Louis’ head snaps up, staring at him.

Will grins, reaching for one of the cups. “Look at that. You got my order right.”

Harry blinks. “That’s—” He glances between them, confused. “That’s Louis’ order.”

Will smirks, taking a sip. “Yeah, and it’s mine too. We’re twins. Same tastes.”

Harry lets out a small, breathless laugh, shaking his head. “Of course.”

Louis rolls his eyes. “It’s not because we’re twins, it’s because I have good taste and Will steals all my favorites.”

Will shrugs. “Semantics.”

The silence that follows is thick, heavy with everything unsaid between them. Will lets it sit for a moment before turning to Harry. “Alright, big guy. Let’s hear it.”

Harry shifts, running a hand through his curls. “Louis, I—” He stops, exhales hard, and starts again. “I never meant to hurt you. The bet was—” He hesitates, shaking his head. “It was stupid. It didn’t mean anything. But you? You meant everything.”

Louis’ fingers tighten around his cup. “How am I supposed to believe that?”

Harry looks pained. “I don’t know. I just—I just know that I’d do anything to prove it to you.”

Will can feel how much Harry means it. He may have been an idiot, but his heart is in the right place now.

Louis exhales sharply. “It just… it felt real, Harry. I thought it was real. And then to find out it started as some game?” He shakes his head, eyes glossy. “I don’t know how to trust that it was real.”

Harry leans forward, desperate. “It was real, Lou. The bet was bullshit, and I regret it every single day. But the way I feel about you?” His voice softens. “That’s the realest thing I’ve ever known.”

Silence.

Will watches Louis, sees the way his walls are cracking, the way he’s fighting himself.

“You’re a bastard,” Louis finally mutters, voice thick.

Harry nods. “I know.”

Louis exhales, shaking his head. “You’re lucky I’m even listening to you.”

Harry offers the smallest, most hopeful smile. “I know that too.”

Will grins into his chai. Yeah, he thinks. This is gonna work.

Louis stares down at his drink, the ice slowly melting as he stirs it with his straw. Will can tell his brother’s emotions are a mess—anger, hurt, longing, confusion—all tangled up so tightly he can’t tell where one ends and the other begins.

Harry is watching his twin like he’s afraid to breathe too loudly, like one wrong move will make Louis bolt. And maybe it would.

Will clears his throat. “So, what now?”

Louis glares at him. “Why are you acting like you’re running a mediation session?”

Will grins, leaning back. “Because I am.” He takes a sip of his chai, looking between them. “Harry fucked up. We all know that. But you’re here, Louis. You wouldn’t be here if you didn’t want to figure this out.”

Louis scowls, but Will sees the way he shifts uncomfortably, like he hates that Will can see right through him.

Harry leans forward slightly, hands clasped together on the table. “I don’t expect you to forgive me today,” he says quietly. “Or ever, if you don’t want to. But I needed to say it. I needed you to hear it from me.”

Louis’ throat tightens. “You could’ve told me before the month was over.”

“I know,” Harry says. “And I should have. I kept putting it off because I was scared. I knew I was falling for you, but I didn’t know if you’d believe me if I told you the truth.” He swallows hard. “And I was selfish. I didn’t want to lose you.”

Louis exhales slowly. “You did lose me.”

Harry flinches. “I know.” His voice is barely a whisper. “And it’s killing me.”

Will watches Louis carefully. He’s still hurt, still guarded, but there’s something else there too. Something softer.

Louis stirs his drink again. “And what about Will?”

Harry blinks. “What?”

“You hurt him too,” Louis says. “You didn’t lie to him, but you still dragged him into this mess, and he—” He falters, glancing at Will. “He’s my twin.”

Harry nods quickly. “I know. And I already told him how sorry I am. But I’ll say it again—I never meant to hurt either of you.” He looks at Will then. “I was an idiot, and I’ll spend as long as it takes proving I’m serious about both of you.”

Will tilts his head. “Oh? So you are planning to court us both?”

Harry’s ears turn pink. “I— I mean—” He rubs the back of his neck, looking helpless. “Only if—if you’d both let me.”

Will lifts a brow, lips twitching. “Good answer.”

Louis shoots him a look. “Are you enjoying this?”

Will grins. “A little.”

Louis shakes his head, but his shoulders are looser now, the tension not as sharp. And Harry, despite looking like he might pass out from nerves, is watching Louis like he’s afraid to blink.

Will sighs dramatically. “Alright. Let’s be real for a second. You’re still mad, yeah?”

Louis scoffs. “Obviously.”

“But do you still want him?”

Louis tenses. He doesn’t answer.

Will shrugs. “Because if you don’t, we can walk out of here right now, and you never have to see him again.”

Harry’s breath hitches, but he doesn’t say anything.

Louis stares at the table.

A long silence.

Then, barely above a whisper—

“…That’s not what I want.”

Harry’s eyes snap up to Louis, full of hope. “It’s not?”

Louis sighs, rubbing a hand over his face. “No, you idiot. I hate that I still want you, but I do.”

Harry looks like he might cry. “Louis…”

Will claps his hands together. “Alright! So we’re getting somewhere.” He takes another sip of his chai, feeling very pleased with himself.

Louis glares at him. “You’re enjoying this too much.”

“I am,” Will admits. “But in my defense, you two are a mess and someone’s gotta fix it.”

Louis shakes his head, but he’s no longer radiating pure anger. And Harry—Harry is sitting there looking like he’s been given a second chance at life.

Will smirks. “So. Now that we’ve established you’re both still into him, what are we gonna do about it?”

Will watches the tension between his twin and Harry like it’s a tennis match. Louis is curled in on himself, clutching his drink like it might shield him, while Harry looks like he’s trying not to crack under the pressure of Louis’ silence.

It’s exhausting, really. They could be kissing by now if Louis would just let himself admit what Will knows is true.

He sighs and taps his fingers against his cup. “Alright. Let’s lay it all out, then.” He gestures lazily between them. “Louis is still mad—”

“Obviously,” Louis mutters.

Will smirks but continues. “Harry is desperate to make it up to us—”

Harry nods so quickly that Will half expects his curls to bounce right off his head.

“And I,” Will grins, “am willing to hear him out.”

Louis shoots him a glare. “That’s your choice.”

Will shrugs. “Yeah, it is. And so is yours.”

Louis just presses his lips together and stays silent. Stubborn. As usual.

Harry clears his throat, looking between them cautiously. “I don’t want to pressure you,” he says, his voice softer than usual. “Either of you. If you need more time, if you need space—whatever you need, I’ll give it to you.”

Will watches Louis carefully, noting the way his twin shifts in his seat.

“You don’t actually want space, though,” Will says casually.

Louis snaps his head toward him. “You don’t know that.”

Will smirks. “Don’t I?”

Louis glares, gripping his drink tighter. “That’s not the point.”

Will fights back a sigh. “Then what is the point?”

Louis hesitates, then finally looks at Harry. “I don’t trust you.”

Will flinches on Harry’s behalf. That one was a gut punch.

Harry swallows hard, looking like he just got kicked. “I—” He takes a deep breath, gathering himself. “I get that. And I don’t blame you for it.” He leans forward slightly, eyes pleading. “But I swear to you, every moment I spent with you—with both of you—was real. I know I messed up, I know I didn’t tell you the truth soon enough, but none of this was just a game to me.” His voice wavers slightly. “And if you gave me the chance, I’d spend every day proving that to you.”

Will watches Louis carefully. He sees the tight grip on his cup, the way his breathing has gone uneven. He wants to believe Harry. He just doesn’t know how to let himself.

Will makes the decision for him.

“Okay,” he says, and both Louis and Harry snap their heads toward him.

Louis frowns. “Okay what?”

Will smirks. “Okay, we give him a chance to prove it.”

Louis’ eyes widen. “We?”

Will nods. “Yeah. We.” He turns to Harry. “You want to court us both, yeah?”

Harry nods instantly, sitting up straighter. “More than anything.”

Will shrugs and turns back to his twin. “Then we let him.”

Louis stares at him like he’s lost his mind. “And you’re just okay with that?”

Will smirks. “I already decided I liked him, remember?” He tosses a teasing glance at Harry before sobering slightly. “But he’s got a lot to make up for.”

Harry nods, deadly serious. “I know.”

Will grins, then turns back to Louis expectantly. “So? What do you say?”

Louis looks between them like they’ve just conspired against him. He hesitates, jaw clenched, but Will can see the tiny crack in his defenses.

Harry, to his credit, doesn’t push. He just watches Louis, quiet but hopeful.

Finally, Louis sighs heavily. “Fine.”

Harry’s breath catches. “Fine?”

Louis rolls his eyes. “Don’t make me say it again.”

Will grins, taking another sip of his chai. “Well, this should be fun,” he muses, tossing Harry a pointed look. “Hope you’re ready to work for it, Haz.”

Harry nods quickly, looking between them with something soft and determined in his eyes. “I am.”

Will lets out a breath. Maybe this won’t be such a disaster after all.

***

Will, as always, ends up being right.

Harry has more than made it up to them. He dotes on them relentlessly, going out of his way to make them feel cherished. He walks them both to and from class, always waiting outside their lecture halls with a warm drink or a snack in hand. He surprises them with little courting gifts—sometimes thoughtful, sometimes ridiculous, like the matching plushies that Will pretended to roll his eyes at but now refuses to sleep without. He listens intently to every word they say, whether it’s Louis going on about some new book or Will ranting about a show he’s obsessed with.

Will had never imagined an alpha could be this competent, let alone this devoted to making them happy. Even more surprising, Harry has never once made Will feel like too much. Instead, he seems to thrive on Will’s dramatics, encouraging them with an amused grin and indulging him at every turn. And, for the first time, Will enjoys letting himself be soft with someone. He likes leaning into his omega instincts, basking in the attention Harry lavishes on them.

Here’s a smoother and more engaging revision of that part:

Harry took his punishment like a champ, dutifully taking the president’s cousin on a date as promised. At first, Louis and Will felt a twinge of jealousy—until they actually saw the beta in question. Then they just laughed and told Harry to have fun. Which the alpha did not. 

On top of that, Harry started doing laundry for all his frat brothers for the month without a single complaint. As he put it, he deserved the punishment for what he’d done to his omegas, and honestly? The price he paid was more than worth it—because, in the end, he got them, as the alpha put it, making Will’s heart swell. 

A month into this new reality, Will and Louis are fully gone for their alpha. It’s impossible not to forgive Harry when he flashes that dimpled, goofy smile—the one that makes something flutter in Will’s chest no matter how much he tries to deny it.

But now, something else is creeping in.

Will has been on edge for days, and he knows Louis feels it too. His skin is warmer than usual, his body restless. When he checks his phone, his suspicions are confirmed—their heat is due any day now.

And now, for the first time, they have an alpha.

Will sprawls across his bed, feeling the heat thrumming under his skin, as Louis sits cross-legged on his own bed, typing away at his laptop. Will eyes him, then rolls onto his side, propping his head up with his hand.

“So,” he starts, watching Louis out of the corner of his eye, “our heat is coming up.”

Louis sighs, rubbing at his face. “I know.”

Will smirks. “And now we have an alpha who’s obsessed with us and would definitely be more than willing to help us through it.”

Louis shoots him a look but doesn’t immediately shut it down. “I know,” he says again, slower this time. “But… this would be our first time with him. We haven’t done anything sexual with Harry yet, and then our first time is going to be during our heat? Do you think we’re ready for that?”

Will scoffs. “I know I’m ready for it. I’ve been ready for it. Do you know how many times I’ve wanted to drop to my knees around him?”

Louis groans and buries his face in his hands. “Same.”

Will grins. “See? We’re on the same page.”

Louis lifts his head, chewing on his lip. “Fine,” he concedes. “We should probably ask him first, though.” He shifts uncomfortably, gaze flicking away. “I don’t think we can get through it with just each other anymore. Now that he’s in our lives, our omegas will ache for him.”

Will sits up, already buzzing with anticipation. “Well, what are we waiting for, Lou?” He grins mischievously. “Let’s go ask him.”

Louis

Louis is nervous.

He and Will have never had an alpha help them through their heat before. They’ve always just relied on each other, and that’s worked for them. They’ve also never shared an alpha at the same time—not like this. It’s new, and Louis isn’t quite sure how to feel about it.

But if there’s one thing he does know, it’s that he wouldn’t want to do this with anyone other than Will and Harry.

They’ve made it about halfway to the frat house when Harry suddenly appears beside them, sliding an arm around each of their shoulders with ease. He tugs them in close, pressing a kiss to the side of Louis’ head before doing the same to Will.

“Hi, babes.” His voice is warm and affectionate, but Louis doesn’t miss the subtle flare of his nostrils as he takes them in. “Where are you two off to?”

Louis exhales, his nerves twisting in his stomach. “That’s why we were headed to see you at the frat,” he admits. “We need to talk to you about our heat.”

Harry blinks, his easygoing expression shifting into something more serious in an instant. “Oh.” His grip tightens on their shoulders, his jaw tensing as his eyes flick between them. “Yeah, let’s get inside. I don’t like you two walking around out here like this—too many alphas can smell you.”

Will snickers, nudging Harry’s chest playfully. “So glad we’ve got our big bad alpha to protect us.”

Harry doesn’t smile this time. His entire body radiates possessiveness as he growls lowly, “You always will. I’ll kill anyone who tries to harm either of you.”

Louis sighs, shaking his head at his ridiculous alpha. “Let’s hold off on murder and focus on getting to the frat, yeah?”

Harry doesn’t argue. Instead, he keeps them tucked securely against his sides as they continue their way down the path, his protective presence steady and unwavering. And despite the nerves still buzzing under Louis’ skin, having Harry there makes it feel just a little easier to breathe.

***

By the time they make it to the frat house, Harry is all but herding them inside, his broad frame shielding them from the other alphas lounging around. His grip tightens any time someone so much as glances in their direction, his possessiveness practically vibrating off him. Louis is half-exasperated, half-flattered by it.

Once they’re inside Harry’s room, the alpha finally exhales, shutting the door firmly behind them. “Welcome to mi casa,” he announces with a grin. “Or whatever ‘room’ is in Spanish.”

Louis barely hears him. The second they step inside, he’s hit with the overwhelming scent of Harry. It’s everywhere—deep and rich, woodsy with a hint of spice. And this close to his heat, it makes his head spin. His omega likes it, wants to roll in it, wants to—

He shakes himself out of it, glancing toward Will, who looks equally affected. His twin’s pupils are dilated, his chest rising and falling just a bit faster than usual.

But then Louis’ attention catches on something on Harry’s desk—a framed photo of him with two women. The resemblance is obvious. His mother and sister. They all look so happy together, and Louis can’t help but smile. It makes his stomach feel warm, seeing this softer side of Harry, a glimpse into his world beyond campus and frat parties.

Before he can dwell on it, Will flops down onto Harry’s bed like he owns the place, grabbing a pillow and burying his face in it. He takes a deep inhale, exhaling a pleased sound that makes Louis groan.

“Can you compose yourself before you start wetting his sheets with your slick right here?” Louis grumbles.

“No, no, he can do that. I don’t mind,” Harry replies far too quickly, a mischievous grin playing at his lips.

Will lifts his head, smirking. “See? Harry doesn’t mind.” He sticks his tongue out at Louis but, to his credit, does sit up. Louis sighs and joins him on the bed, and Harry follows, sitting beside them.

Louis doesn’t waste time. “Harry, we want you to help us through our heat.”

Harry blinks. “Both of you?”

They nod, and Will adds, “Our heats have always been in sync. Ever since we presented as omegas.”

“And we’ve always helped each other through them,” Louis says, keeping his voice steady. “But this time, we want you to help us.”

Something shifts in Harry’s expression. His playful demeanor fades into something more serious, his green eyes dark and searching. “Wait,” he says after a moment, voice low. “You guys help each other? You mean like…”

Will rolls his eyes, unimpressed. “Yes, we fuck each other during our heats. Why? Does that turn you on, alpha?”

Harry visibly swallows, his nostrils flaring as his pupils dilate. “Fuck yeah, it does.” His voice is rougher now, hungrier. “So you like… suck each other off and stuff? And like, finger each other?”

Will nods, a teasing smirk playing on his lips. Louis, on the other hand, huffs in frustration. “This is not what we should be focused on,” he snaps, shooting Will a glare. “You helping us is a big deal, Harry. We’ve never had an alpha in our heats before. And we’ve never…” He hesitates, then forces himself to say it. “We’ve never had sex with the same alpha at the same time.”

Harry’s teasing expression fades into something softer, more serious. His gaze flickers between them, like he’s taking in just how significant this is.

“I get it,” he finally says, voice lower, steadier. “This isn’t just some casual thing for you.”

Louis nods, glad that Harry is actually listening instead of making another horny comment. He feels Will shift beside him, and for once, his twin isn’t jumping in with a joke either.

Harry runs a hand through his curls, exhaling. “I don’t want to fuck this up. I won’t fuck this up. But I need you to tell me if there are any rules or limits. Anything you don’t want.”

Louis swallows hard. They’ve never had an alpha before, never shared one, and the thought of trusting someone this much makes his stomach flip. But he knows, deep down, that if it had to be anyone, he’s glad it’s Harry.

Will is the one who speaks first. “We’ve only ever had each other to rely on during our heats,” he admits, voice unusually serious. “So this is… big for us. We trust you, but if at any point it’s too much, you have to stop.”

“Of course,” Harry says immediately, squeezing both of their hands. “I’d never push you into something you don’t want.”

Louis exhales, already feeling some of the tension in his chest ease. “We just need you to be there—to take care of us, to help us through it.” He licks his lips, forcing himself to keep eye contact. “We don’t just want any alpha. We want you.”

Harry looks at him like he’s just been given the world. “You have me,” he promises. “For as long as you want me.”

Will huffs out a small laugh. “Better be ready, Styles. We’re a lot to handle.”

Harry grins, cocky as ever, but there’s warmth in his eyes when he replies, “Good thing I’m up for the challenge.”

Louis doesn’t know who moves first—him, Will, or Harry—but suddenly, they’re tangled together, arms wrapped around each other, their scents mixing, their bodies pressing close.

Harry’s hand cradles the back of Louis’ head, his touch warm and grounding. “You have me,” he murmurs again, softer this time. “I’ll take care of you. Both of you.”

Will lets out a shaky breath, his usual teasing bravado slipping away as he buries his face in Harry’s neck. “Yeah, you better,” he says, but it’s not sharp—it’s vulnerable.

Louis’ throat tightens. He never thought he’d trust an alpha like this, let alone love one. But as he grips onto Harry’s shirt, feeling Will’s heartbeat against his side and Harry’s arms strong around them, he knows there’s no use pretending anymore.

“I love you,” Louis breathes, the words tumbling out before he can second-guess them.

Harry freezes for half a second before exhaling sharply, almost like he’s been holding it in. He pulls back just enough to look at Louis, eyes shining. “I love you too,” he says, then turns to Will. “Both of you.”

Will swallows hard, blinking rapidly, then huffs out a half-laugh. “You’re such a sap.”

“Say it back,” Harry pouts, nudging him.

Will rolls his eyes but softens almost immediately, pressing a hand to Harry’s chest. “I love you, dumbass.”

Harry grins, his dimples popping, and then he’s kissing Will, then Louis, pressing his forehead to theirs, whispering promises between kisses.

Louis closes his eyes, breathing them in, letting himself sink into it. Their heat is coming, and he knows it’ll change things—but right now, in this moment, he has his brother and their alpha, and he’s never felt safer.

Harry

Harry decides the best thing for all of them is for Louis and Will to spend the night in his room. Their heat is close—he can feel it, smell it, see it in the way their bodies move, already seeking him out even unconsciously. He doesn’t want them anywhere but with him when it hits.

Still, if he’s being honest, he’s a little panicked. He knows he’s good at sex, knows how to take care of an omega in bed, but two? At the same time? He’s never done anything like this before. He worries he won’t be alpha enough, that he won’t be able to give them both what they need, won’t be able to keep up. But they’ve put their trust in him, and Harry refuses to let them down.

He shakes off his doubts and focuses on what he can do. He heads to the kitchen, throwing together some quick sandwiches. He needs to make sure they eat before their appetites disappear into the haze of their heat. When he returns to his room, he finds his omegas curled up together on his bed, their limbs tangled, their scents mixed, looking soft and perfect and his. His heart clenches, his chest tightening with something warm and overwhelming.

Harry clears his throat to get their attention. “Brought you some sandwiches.”

“Thanks, Haz,” Louis murmurs, reaching for one, his fingers brushing against Harry’s in the process.

Will takes one, quirking a brow. “You do have a plan to keep us fed during our heat, right?”

Harry rolls his eyes. “I’ve got a mini fridge in here with water, energy drinks, snacks. And protein bars for my ruts.”

Will hums approvingly. “Just making sure.”

“How are you both feeling?” Harry asks, settling into his desk chair, watching them closely.

“I feel hot, and your scent is overwhelming as fuck,” Louis says between bites.

“Same,” Will nods. “Have you ever helped an omega through their heat before?”

Harry shakes his head. “No. Never wanted to, honestly. It’s… intimate. More than just sex.” He looks between them. “But with you two, it’s different. I want to.”

Will and Louis exchange a look before Louis speaks. “Well, just so you know, we’re going to be very needy, and we’ll probably both be begging for your cock at the same time. And since you can’t magically grow two of them…” He pauses, giving Harry a pointed look. “You’ll have to keep one of us distracted while you’re knotting the other.”

Harry lets out a sharp exhale, raking a hand through his curls. “Fuck. No pressure or anything.”

“You’ll do fine,” Will assures him easily. Then he grins and rolls over, grabbing his jacket and pulling something from the pocket.

Harry stares at the object in his hand. “Is that—”

“A knotting dildo,” Will says, matter-of-fact.

Harry gapes at him. “You had that in your jacket this whole time?”

Louis looks equally stunned. “When the hell did you even grab that?”

Will shrugs, entirely unbothered. “Before we left. Thought it might make your life a little easier. While you’re knotting one of us, you can use this on the other until your knot goes down. Then we switch.”

Louis blinks. “That’s actually… kind of genius.”

Harry lets out a breathy laugh, shaking his head. “Yeah, no complaints here. I’ll take all the help I can get.”

“See?” Will smirks. “I’m full of good ideas.”

They finish eating, and then Louis and Will strip down, their flushed skin too warm, the heat making them uncomfortable in clothes. Harry swears he nearly blacks out when he sees them standing in nothing but their panties—his omegas, practically dripping with need already.

Louis, predictably, hurries under the covers, obviously embarrassed, but Will stays standing, wiggling his ass at Harry with a teasing smirk.

“Like what you see, alpha?” he taunts.

Harry groans, dragging a hand down his face. “You’re gonna kill me, omega.”

Will just grins, finally crawling into bed as well.

Harry composes himself as best he can, stripping down to his boxers before slipping into the middle of them. Immediately, they curl into him, pressing against his sides, arms wrapping around his stomach. He holds them close, feeling their warmth, their trust, their need for him.

His chest tightens again, but this time, it’s not fear—it’s something deeper. He’s never felt more content in his life.

***

Harry wakes slowly, warmth surrounding him on both sides. He blinks against the early morning light streaming through his window, his senses already overwhelmed before he’s even fully conscious. Louis and Will are still tucked into him, their bodies pressed against his, their scents thick and heavy in the air. It’s stronger than last night.

Fuck.

He knows before he even moves—they’re right on the edge. Their heat is about to hit.

Carefully, he shifts, glancing down at them. Louis is curled into his left side, one hand gripping Harry’s shirt in his sleep, his face pressed into Harry’s shoulder. Will is sprawled out on his right, an arm thrown over Harry’s stomach, his leg hooked over Harry’s thigh like he has no concept of personal space.

Harry can’t help but smile. Even in their sleep, they seek him out, instinctually clinging to their alpha. His omegas.

His.

The possessive thought sends a shiver down his spine.

Louis makes a small noise, nuzzling closer, and Will stirs as well, his body shifting against Harry’s side. A second later, Will lets out a slow breath and stretches, rubbing his face against Harry’s shoulder before blinking his eyes open.

Will sighs, voice raspy. “I feel like I’m burning up.”

Harry cups the back of his neck, fingers brushing through the damp hair there. “Yeah, baby. I think it’s starting.”

At that, Louis shifts too, his brows furrowing, a soft whimper leaving his lips as he presses even closer to Harry.

Will turns his head to look at his twin, his own body already reacting to the heat creeping in. “You feel it too, Lou?”

Louis nods sluggishly, still half-asleep. “Mhm. ‘S bad.”

Harry feels his heart clench. He can already tell this is going to be intense. They’ve never gone through heat with an alpha before—never had someone here to take care of them through it. He’s going to make sure he does everything right.

“Shh, I’ve got you,” Harry murmurs, pressing a kiss to Louis’ temple before turning to do the same to Will.

Louis lets out another soft noise, almost like a purr, while Will sighs in contentment.

But it doesn’t take long before their bodies start shifting restlessly against him. Their skin is hot, their scent thickening, making Harry’s head spin.

And then—Louis lets out the first real whimper.

It’s quiet, breathy, but it goes straight to Harry’s cock.

Then Will lets out a noise of his own, more of a whine, pressing his face against Harry’s neck and inhaling deep.

Harry grips the sheets. Fuck. He can feel the way they’re instinctually reacting to him—their hands gripping at him, their legs tangling with his, their hips subtly shifting closer, searching for relief.

He forces himself to take a steadying breath, his alpha instincts roaring to life at the way his omegas are so clearly aching for him.

Louis clutches at Harry’s shirt again, voice barely above a whisper. “Harry…”

Harry tilts his head down, his nose brushing against Louis’ forehead. “I’m right here, baby.”

Louis swallows hard, then glances up at him, eyes wide and already hazy. His lips part, his breath shaky. “Please.”

Harry’s grip tightens.

On his other side, Will lets out a needy noise, shifting so he can press his body even closer. “Alpha…”

Harry exhales sharply, looking between them. His omegas. His sweet, desperate omegas.

Harry takes a steadying breath, trying to keep himself from coming on the spot at the sight of his omegas—flushed, desperate, and so eager to please him.

But they need him right now. Need him to take care of them.

He forces himself to pull away, making them whine in protest as he steps back. “Get on your hands and knees. Asses up at the top of the bed.”

Louis and Will move in sync, scrambling to obey, their bodies practically vibrating with need.

“Fuck.” Harry runs a hand through his curls, admiring the way they present for him—backs arched so perfectly, their slick thighs trembling as they wiggle their asses in invitation. His. Both of them, his.

“You present so fucking pretty,” he praises, large hands smoothing over their curves before gripping them tightly. He delivers a sharp smack to both their cheeks, reveling in the way they jolt forward, moaning at the contact.

Harry watches as fresh slick drips down their thighs, their bodies aching for more. He can smell how badly they need him, the thick scent of their heat making his head spin.

With a growl, he hooks his fingers into the waistband of their panties and drags them down, discarding them somewhere on the floor. And fuck. He groans at the sight of their soaked, flushed holes, twitching and clenching, slick pooling beneath them.

Harry doesn’t hesitate. He buries his face between Louis’ cheeks first, groaning as he licks a broad stripe over his hole, savoring the sweet, addictive taste. His omega shudders beneath him, a sharp gasp falling from his lips as he pushes back against Harry’s mouth.

Not wanting Will to feel neglected, Harry pulls back, lapping over his other omega’s hole, groaning at how equally perfect he tastes. They’re both his. Both here, falling apart for him.

He knows they need more—he can see it in the way they tremble, cocks flushed and aching beneath them. So he gives it to them.

Harry focuses his tongue on Will, circling his rim before pushing inside, while his fingers trail over Louis’ slick entrance, pressing two inside with ease. The twin cries out at the stretch, his hands fisting into the sheets.

They’re so loud, whining and moaning in perfect harmony as he works them open. Their desperate little sounds shoot straight to his cock, but he ignores his own need for now. His omegas always come first.

It doesn’t take long before he feels them tightening, their thighs tensing beneath his touch. He speeds up, curling his fingers against Louis’ prostate, thrusting his tongue deeper inside Will.

And then—

“Harry,” they cry out in unison, their voices breaking as they spill onto the sheets below them, their bodies shuddering from the force of their release.

Harry groans, licking them both clean as they ride out their orgasms. But they don’t sag with exhaustion, don’t collapse in satisfaction. No, they’re still needy. Their heat isn’t close to being soothed yet.

They twist toward him almost immediately, hands reaching out, grabbing at his cock through his boxers.

“Need you, alpha,” Louis whines, his voice wrecked.

“Please,” Will adds, pressing closer, his lips ghosting over Harry’s hip. “Need you inside us.”

Harry swears under his breath. How the fuck did he get so lucky?

He shoves his boxers down, his cock springing free—hard, thick, already leaking for them.

His omegas waste no time. They wrap their hands around him, soft fingers stroking up and down his length, making him hiss through his teeth.

“Mm, alpha,” Will breathes, eyes hazy as he gazes up at him. “So big.”

Louis licks his lips, looking just as wrecked. “So thick. You’re gonna fill us up so good.”

Then, without hesitation, they shift lower, pressing soft kisses along his cock.

Harry groans, his hands sinking into their hair as Louis takes the head of his cock into his mouth, while Will shifts lower, sucking gently at his balls.

Fuck.

His omegas are so perfect, so desperate for him.

With the way they take turns swallowing him down, Harry knows he won’t last much longer if he lets them continue. His omegas are too good at this—too eager, too perfect, their tongues and lips working in tandem to reduce him to nothing.

So he steps back, pulling free from Louis’ mouth with a wet pop.

The twins immediately whine in protest, hands reaching for him, desperate to bring him back. But Harry bats their hands away, giving them a warning look.

“You need to be knotted,” he tells them firmly. That gets their attention.

Both omegas blink up at him, eyes blown wide with need. He knows they’ll take him in any order he gives them, but he wants to be fair. He thinks quickly, landing on the only way he can decide.

“Which one of you is older?”

Louis and Will exchange a look, their hazy minds processing the question. Then Louis speaks.

“I’m older, alpha. By nine minutes.” His voice is breathy, but there’s still a flicker of pride there.

Harry raises a brow. He wouldn’t have guessed that.

“Which he loves to rub in my face all the time,” Will mutters, rolling his eyes.

Harry smirks. “Well, Will, that means you get knotted first since you’re the youngest.”

Louis pouts, but Will smirks triumphantly, already shifting onto his hands and knees.

Harry leans in, brushing a reassuring kiss to Louis’ temple. “Don’t worry, baby. I’ll knot you after. And by then, you’ll be so out of it, you won’t care who went first.” He reaches for the knotting dildo on the nightstand. “Will, I want you fucking Louis with this. And I want you blowing him while I fuck you. Understood?”

“Yes, alpha,” Will answers immediately, obedient as ever.

Louis scrambles to the pillows, lying on his back in front of his brother.

Harry moves in behind Will, running two fingers over his slick hole before pressing them inside, testing how open he is.

Will whines impatiently. “Don’t need prep, alpha. Need your cock, please.”

Harry groans at the sheer desperation in his voice, withdrawing his fingers to gather his slick, stroking it over his cock. “Okay, omega. I got you.”

He grips himself at the base and lines up with Will’s hole, pushing in slowly. Will lets out a blissful moan as Harry sinks all the way inside, his hips flush against the omega’s ass.

“Fuck, you’re tight,” Harry groans, his hands digging into Will’s hips.

“I’m so full, alpha,” Will breathes, already pushing back onto him, needy and restless. “Move, Harry, please, move.”

Harry holds still, resisting the urge to thrust. “I’ll move once you give Louis what he needs.”

Louis is already writhing, his cock flushed and leaking against his stomach, desperate for any stimulation.

Harry watches as Will grips the dildo and eases it inside his twin’s hole. Instantly, Louis’ body relaxes, a deep moan slipping past his lips. And when Will leans down and takes his cock into his mouth, Louis all but shatters, throwing his head back with a sharp cry.

Fuck.

The sight alone nearly makes Harry knot on the spot—his cock buried deep inside one omega while the other gets sucked off by his twin.

Will obeyed him so well. He deserves a reward.

Harry grips his hips and pulls back before slamming in, making Will keen around Louis’ cock. He sets a punishing rhythm, fucking into Will hard and fast, his slick squelching loudly with every thrust.

Will moans around Louis, sending vibrations through him. The older twin sobs at the sensation, hips jerking as the dildo is pumped in and out of him.

Will finally pulls off his brother’s cock with a wet gasp, looking back at Harry with wide, pleading eyes. “Need your knot, alpha. Please.”

Harry groans. He’s so fucking close. “Okay, baby. I’ll give you what you need. Such a good little omega. Both of you.”

His grip tightens as he pounds relentlessly into Will, feeling his knot start to swell.

“Yes, yes, fuck yes,” Will chants, pushing back onto him as his body finally gives in, spilling onto the sheets beneath him. The tight spasming of his walls around Harry’s cock is too much, and with a deep growl, Harry knots him fully, locking them together as his come floods inside his omega.

Through the haze of pleasure, he hears Louis whimper and looks up just in time to see Will push the knot of the dildo inside him, his body tensing as he comes, his twin swallowing every drop.

But Harry knows Louis won’t be fully satisfied. He needs his knot, not just a plastic one.

Harry sighs, pressing a kiss to Will’s shoulder as he gently maneuvers them onto their sides, mindful of their tie.

“Will, you still with me, baby?” he murmurs, rubbing soothing circles over his omega’s hip.

Will only purrs in response, already slipping under, fully taken by his heat now that he’s been knotted by his alpha.

Harry shifts his attention to Louis, who’s watching him with wide, desperate eyes.

“Alpha,” Louis whines, his voice wrecked. “I need your cock.”

“I know, baby, I know,” Harry soothes, reaching over Will to rub his shoulder. “As soon as my knot goes down, I’m all yours, okay?”

Louis whimpers but nods, pressing into Harry’s touch.

It takes nearly thirty minutes before Harry’s knot finally deflates enough for him to slip free. And in that time, Louis only grows more restless, more needy.

The second he’s free, Harry carefully climbs over Will’s sleeping form, settling in between Louis’ open legs, looking down at the omega’s dripping hole.

Harry wastes no time. He fists his cock, pumping himself back to full hardness before shoving inside.

Louis wails, back arching as Harry immediately sets a brutal pace, slamming into him with forceful, deep thrusts. He doesn’t need to be gentle—Louis has been waiting too long for this, and he takes it beautifully, spreading his legs further, begging for more.

“Alpha, alpha, please, your knot—I need it so bad,” Louis sobs, nails scratching down Harry’s back, desperate to pull him closer.

Harry groans. “Taking me so well, omega. Gonna knot you so good.”

He forces a hand between them, wrapping around Louis’ cock, stroking him in time with his thrusts.

It doesn’t take long.

Louis screams, his body convulsing as he spills between them, his walls clenching around Harry’s cock like a vice.

Harry’s knot swells instantly, locking them together as he comes deep inside his omega, filling him with everything he has.

Louis sighs blissfully at the stretch, going completely boneless against him.

Harry takes a deep breath, carefully maneuvering them so he’s on his back, Louis sprawled out on top of him, still tied together.

He strokes a gentle hand down his omega’s spine, smiling at the content purring against his chest. His omegas are happy, fully satisfied.

For now.

Because just as his eyes start to flutter closed, a soft whimper fills the air.

Harry cracks one eye open to find Will stirring, shifting restlessly beside them.

“Alpha,” Will whines, voice thick with need. “Need your cock again.”

Harry sighs, pressing his face into Louis’ hair.

This is going to be a long few days.

***

After three long days, Harry can finally tell that their heat has broken. It’s mid-afternoon, and he’s still knotted inside Will after just finishing with Louis. But the signs are clear—neither of them is flushed or overheated anymore, and the desperate scent of their heat no longer lingers in the air.

As much as he enjoyed taking care of his omegas, Harry is completely spent. His alpha friends had warned him that handling one omega’s heat was exhausting, but two? He feels like he’s just run a marathon.

When his knot finally deflates, he carefully slips out of Will and settles him next to Louis. Instinctively, the twins curl into each other, their bodies seeking comfort. Harry smiles at the sight before slipping into his en-suite bathroom—one of the perks of being second-in-command in the house. He runs a warm bath, filling it just enough for all three of them to soak, then shuts off the water and throws on a pair of joggers.

His next priority is food. The only thing they’ve eaten the past few days were the protein bars and small snacks he managed to coax into them while they were wrapped around his knot. They need a proper meal, so he heads downstairs to make them breakfast—eggs, pancakes, bacon, the works.

His frat brothers pat his back and tease him, saying he’s “the man” for getting twin omegas through their heat. He rolls his eyes but chuckles anyway, too tired to do more than that.

When he returns to his room with three plates, he finds them stirring, whining softly, and calling out for him. He barely has time to set the plates down before he’s rushing over.

The moment they see him, they settle. Their inner omegas must have panicked when they woke up without him nearby.

“Shh, omegas, I’m right here,” he soothes, wrapping them up in his arms.

“We thought you left us,” Louis whispers, voice small.

“Fucking knothead,” Will grumbles, still half-asleep.

Harry chuckles. “I’m sorry, babes. But I made you breakfast. You need to eat something real.” He strokes a hand down Louis’ back. “I also ran a hot bath for us. I think we all need it.”

He doesn’t even have to say why. They all know the mess left behind after a heat—dried slick, sweat, saliva, and come coating their bodies.

Louis, apparently regaining his appetite, makes grabby hands toward the food. “Food first.”

Harry laughs, helping them sit up and handing them their plates. They eat quietly, still shaking off the haze of their heat. He can tell they’re regaining their senses, returning to themselves.

Once they’re done, Harry scoops them both up and carries them to the bathroom. They each take turns on the toilet, and Harry shudders at the sound of them expelling all the come he’d left inside them. Then they climb into the tub, sighing in relief as the warm water soothes their sore muscles.

Harry settles in the middle with Louis and Will pressed against his sides. The twins hum in contentment, and for the first time in days, Harry feels his body truly relax.

After a while, he breaks the silence. “I did a number on your necks. Just a heads-up.”

Louis giggles. “That’s okay. We like everyone knowing we’re yours.”

“Yeah,” Will adds, “contrary to popular belief, omegas don’t actually like random alphas hitting on them. Maybe this will keep some of them away.”

Harry’s chest tightens with possessiveness. He drops a kiss to the top of their heads. “One day, you’ll both have my bond bite, and then everyone will know you belong to me.”

Louis sighs dreamily. “Can’t wait. You took such good care of us.”

Will hums in agreement. “Yeah, you exceeded all expectations. Your dick is, like, fucking magic.”

Harry barks out a laugh. “I don’t think I’ve ever heard that one before.” He shakes his head. 

Here’s a revised version that smooths out the flow while keeping the humor and dynamic intact:

Harry suddenly remembers something and stiffens. “Louis, oh my god. I totally forgot—you were a virgin! Your first time was during your heat. I didn’t even think—”

Louis turns to look at him, utterly confused. “Harry, what are you talking about?”

Before Harry can say anything else, Will lets out a loud cackle, snickering against his chest.

Realization dawns. Harry groans. “Will, you little shit. You were messing with me, weren’t you?”

“Maybe,” Will giggles, entirely unrepentant.

Louis rolls his eyes and pinches his twin. “Sorry, Harry, but that honor went to Holly Andrews in tenth grade. First and only female alpha I’ve been with.”

Harry shakes his head, exasperated. “Please don’t talk about other alphas after I just help you through your heat.” He leans back against the tub, letting out a dramatic sigh. “You definitely didn’t make it easy on me.”

“We know,” Louis says, turning to press a kiss to his jaw. “That’s why we’re so grateful. You’re the best alpha we could’ve asked for.”

Harry’s alpha preens at the praise, pride swelling in his chest. He wraps them up in his arms, holding them close. “I’m the lucky one. You two are everything to me.” He nuzzles into their damp locks, voice soft. “I love you both more than anything.”

“We love you too, Harry,” they murmur in unison.

And as Harry holds them close, their bodies warm against his, he knows he wouldn’t trade this for anything.