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Chapter Text

Shen Wen Lang followed Gao Tu to his home and observed as Gao Tu took back Lele and changed him into his night suit. After the baby settled Shen Wen lang scented him deeply. Seeing him turn comfortably in his scent churned something in him. As Lele finally fell asleep, Shen Wen Lang turned to Gao Tu "Gao Tu, can we talk?"
Gao Tu replied as he led him to the door "I am pretty tired President Shen, running around the kids throughout the day. You might also be tired after running your company and then attending the party. We can talk later." The door was opened so that Shen Wen Lang could see himself out.

Shen Wen Lang breathed deeply then asked "can we at least exchange numbers? So we can arrange when I can meet Lele?" Gao Tu took a moment and said "ask your best friend. And you can meet Lele in any open space but I refuse to allow a meet at any place that he can associate with a home. Meet at a parking lot for all I care but no home. Good night President Shen, have a safe drive home." And the door was closed.

Next Morning, Hua Yong opened his door to let Mr. Sheng out so he could go to office but they jumped back with a yelp when they saw someone slumping in front of their door. The kids heard them and came running to see if everything is okay when they saw their Daddy Wen slumping in front of them. They wished him "daddy Wen, good morning" while hugging him. Shen Wen Lang returned the greeting but maintained eye contact with Hua Yong.

Hua Yong sighed as he opened the door wider to let him in and let his husband out. Shen Wen Lang greeted him as well, as he was stepping out to go to office. Sheng Shao You returned it curtly as he went his way. Shen Wen Lang herded the twins inside saying "kids, daddy Wen needs to talk to papa about something. Why don't you two be good boys and play in your room?" They nodded as they skipped to their room.
Hua Yong had prepared the leftover breakfast for him by that time.

Shen Wen Lang was going to speak when Hua Yong's phone rang. He glared at him at he received the call so Shen Wen Lang guessed it might be Gao Tu. He kept his head down and ate the breakfast given as Hua Yong hummed and huhhed his way through the conversation. Shen Wen Lang could only guess since there was nothing from the side he was able to listen but actually, Gao Tu had just told Hua Yong that he was allowed and free to answer whatever he asks, his number could be given, and whatever else Hua Yong feels right could be said. The call was finally cut after a minute and a half.

Shen Wen Lang finally said "thank you for keeping him safe throughout the years. I hope there was no complication in his pregnancy and delivery. Was he at your home back in P Country?" Hua Yong was expecting anything but that, then he nodded after stabilizing himself. Shen Wen Lang took his time as he framed his next question.
He then asked "how old is Lele? What's his date of birth?" Hua Yong smiled as he answered "he is 3 years old, a few months older than the twins."

Shen Wen Lang continued "when did he shift back? Does Lele go to school?" Hua Yong shook his head "he shifted when we came back with the twins. And he has looked into schools for Lele, will enroll starting next batch." Hua Yong was smiling internally thinking 'all questions for his baby, what about his Omega?'

Shen Wen Lang stuttered "he had...uhm...did he...did he have a compatible Alpha throughout his pregnancy? I heard you need pheromones of a compatible Alpha during that time. Considering he had his scent hidden for ten years, his pheromones and hormones must be in a disarray." Hua Yong smiled "he had someone." Shen Wen Lang nodded. It looked like he wanted to know more about it but also couldn't bear to know.

Still gathering all his courage he asked "when Gao Tu shifted back, did his Alpha not shift back with him? I didn't see any unfamiliar faces at the party yesterday." Hua Yong had a neutral face "he was there, you didn't notice." Shen Wen Lang pacified himself internally with that answer.

Then he wondered "he works somewhere right? The Gao Tu I knew would never be dependent on someone." Hua Yong nodded so Wen Lang prodded further "who looks after Lele then?" Hua Yong sighed "if I don't have much workload then he leave the baby here. Sometimes Gao Qing takes care of him. He takes him on the job sometimes too, when the shift timing allows."

Then he asked "uhm, do you know why he chose that name, Lele? I mean I like it, I am not saying anything bad, not like I have any right to, that's his kid, but uhm, I just wanted to ask." Hua Yong looked at him surrendering himself as he answered "he said that you once mentioned that name. You said that you would never knowingly procreate but if an accident happened and you couldn't make them abort, that's what you would name your kid."

Shen Wen Lang teared up hearing that. He exclaimed "he loves me lot more than he should like a moron like me. I had done nothing but hurt him ever since we became friends. How he tolerates me is above my understanding. He is still allowing me to build a relationship with Lele, even when I deserve nothing."

What he didn't know was that Hua Yong had not cut the call. Gao Tu was actually listening to everything going on the other side and was sitting in shock.

Shen Wen Lang then calmed himself down and asked "I know you know more than anything I would ever know but is there anything I should know? Maybe to keep him safe from me or something that he wouldn't like?" Hua Yong giggled "maybe keep your mouth shut. You have insulted him enough before he went away."

Shen Wen Lang pleaded "can you please send me his number please?" Hua Yong straightened up "why? Why should I give you his number? You have insulted him enough when he was your secretary before. Why would I let you in his circle ever again. If it was my decision, I would have never let you two meet."

Shen Wen Lang broke down hearing that "please A-Yong, please don't say that. You know that you were the first person I called the day he vanished. You know that I have looked through every part of the country just to ensure that he is not hiding in plain sight, or not being mistreated. I used to call you every three months or so just to ask if you found out anything about him and you always used to deny, even when he was living with you. I know, I know he kept himself hidden because of what I had said but how could I ever say to him that I loved him when he said that he was a Beta but always smelled like an Omega. Keeping my own childhood experiences aside, I could never hate Gao Tu for representing in any designation, but I didn't know he was an Omega for the longest period of time. Till I lost him."

Sobbing and hiccupping Wen Lang continued "you are the one who saw me break down the day I held your twins for the first time. You knew I had a crush on him ever since I have understood that there could be something, someone, who could generate soft emotions in me. You know that I have an entire treasure trove built in my home just in case I meet the baby someday. I swear I would never hurt him again. What right do I have anyway? We used to be friends and now he treats me colder than a stranger. And you know what's even worse? It's that I don't blame him for protecting himself, or Lele. he did what he felt was the best for him and I could never object to that. It's me I blame every night. Please, just give me his number. If you feel that I am misbehaving, mistreating or not being good enough, you can always withdraw my participation from his life. Just allow me to have some connection with Lele. You know A-Yong, I can't even bring him to call my son because Gao Tu raised him all alone till now. And he has done a phenomenal job at it. You told me that Gao Tu has an Alpha and I don't even know where he stands in Lele's life. I don't know how he will react to me wanting to come back to Lele's life. I can't bring myself to call Lele my son because I feel like I have to earn Gao Tu's permission and trust for that."

Wen Lang finally begged "please A-Yong, just his number, please. I will give up anything at this point of time to be able to contact him once."

Hua Yong had teared up seeing his friend break down and had ended up hugging him somewhere in the middle, releasing calming pheromones. Gao Tu was also crying on the other end by then.

Hua Yong then gingerly picked his phone, cut the call and forwarded the number to Wen Lang.

After calming himself down Shen Wen Lang requested "can I stay and have half a day with twins? I really can't bring myself to go back home right now." Hua Yong just nudged his head towards the room signaling he was free to go.

Chapter Text

After having spent half a day with the twins, Shen Wen Lang drove himself back to his own home with Gao Tu's number in his phone. He didn't where to start, or how, but he was dying to text the other so after freshening up, he picked his phone and texted.
(Hello Gao Tu. This is Shen Wen Lang.) (I got your number from Hua Yong. I uhm...I wanted to ask if I can send you voice messages as well. It's just that I am not much comfortable with texting. Feel free to tell me off.)

Gao Tu from his experience knew that Shen Wen Lang was saying the truth. He has always been someone more inclined towards calling so he allowed (okay but warn me about its content before hand so I can keep Lele out of hearing range.) Shen Wen Lang assured him about the same (content warning -gifts.) Before Gao Tu could ask what it meant, he saw that the other was already recording a voice message, so he waited.
*I don't know if you know or not but I clocked in on the fact that you are an Omega, you were the one that night, and that you were pregnant three months after you vanished. Admittedly your sister played an important role but yeah. So, I uhm...I brought gifts for the kid every year just in case I would ever meet them. I just...can I give them to Lele?*

Gao Tu sat astonished at the message he received. He asked (what are the gifts?)

So, Shen Wen Lang sent another recording *first year I brought a model train set. Second year it was remote control car. Third year it was plushie of my scent and recently, it was stationary set.* Gao Tu was shocked with the thoughtfulness behind the gifts. He texted (he is not home for another two hours. If you can deliver within that time frame then okay.)
Shen Wen Lang thanked him multiple times as he set out on the journey to fetch his gifts to his son.

Shen Wen Lang had just set the gifts down on the porch in front of the door when the door opened. Gao Tu looked at him, glanced at the gifts and went his way. Shen Wen Lang couldn't even ask where he was going.
When he reached back home, he texted (I know I am asking more than I am allowed to but, if you feel like it, can you tell me if he liked the gifts or not?) Gao Tu left him on read.

An hour later, Shen Wen Lang received a notification of video received from Gao Tu and sat up excitedly opening the video. He came face to face with Lele who was smiling ear to ear as he thanked him softly "thank you for the gifts papa. Lele liked them a lot. Lele will play nicely and share with A-Ming and A-Yu."
Shen Wen Lang also sent his gratitude (Thank you so much for the video. I really appreciate it.) Gao Tu replied (He insisted.) And they went to their own works.

Next day, Shen Wen Lang was going to scold one of his employees for work poorly done while being in the reception lobby when everything went still. All because a child whimpered "papa." Shen Wen lang immediately turned to the voice, dismissing the employee, and looked at Gao Tu before looking at Lele who was whimpering for his attention. Gao Tu explained "he has fever. I tried giving him medicine, a scent bath, even the plushie of your scent but he keeps asking for you. I know you are busy President Shen, and I am so sorry for bringing him here-" "what can I do?" Shen Wen Lang interrupted.

Lele extended his arms with a whine so Shen Wen Lang turned to Gao Tu again for permission. Gao Tu sighed but nodded and moved forward to transfer the son in his father's arms. Shen Wen Lang immediately carried Lele who settled himself near his scent gland and went to sleep after a deep inhale. Gao Tu exhaled on his behalf "such a temper tantrum just to fall asleep the moment he is in your arms." Wen Lang smiled to himself.

Shen Wen Lang looked around then offered "uhm, would you like to come upstairs to the office? He can sleep there peacefully for the time being." Seeing that his son had no mood of letting go of his father, Gao Tu nodded.
As they were travelling up through the building, Gao Tu was greeted by many of his former colleagues. When they finally reached the office, Shen Wen Lang suggested "I don't have much work today and nor does the office. Why don't you go meet your friends and former colleagues while he is sleeping here. I will text you if anything happens." Gao Tu took a moment as if calculating something, then warned "call me, don't text if something happens" then moved out.

From the transparent window he saw how gently Wen Lang laid Lele down on the sofa and covered him with his jacket, settling on the floor nearby so as to take care of him. Smiling he went to look for his acquaintances.

Gao Tu came back two hours later, flushed from the greetings and compliments. He opened the door to a beautiful scene of Lele sleeping in Wen Lang's lap, still covered with his jacket, and a bottle of medicine lying nearby. When he came nearer to the duo, he noticed that there was a cold compress on Lele's forehead. He frowned slightly when Wen Lang woke up. He immediately clocked into the frown as a bad deed and explained "he was feeling a little warm so I did a cold compress and fed him some medicine I keep around for twins. I am sorry if I overstepped."

Gao Tu nodded and settled on the other sofa.
Shen Wen Lang, mustering all the courage he had, asked after some time "what would Lele like to eat for lunch? Should I order in or can we go to a restaurant?" Gao Tu answered, without looking up from his phone, "he will eat something light like bao or egg fried rice. And please order take out. I don't want to expose him to more germs than needed when his immunity is weak." Shen Wen Lang nodded and picked his phone to place the order. He was almost done when he looked at Gao Tu again, took a moment to himself, and finally asked "and what should I order for you?" Gao Tu sighed "whatever you are having, I am not picky." Shen Wen lang nodded and placed the order.

Even after lunch Lele was adamant about not leaving his papa's side. So, Shen Wen Lang consoled him "erz, uh, Lele, how about papa take you back home and then you sleep like a good boy I know you are and listen to mama so you can get better soon. Then we can play together later." Wen Lang looked at Gao Tu for confirmation as if he said the right thing or not while Lele took his time contemplating. Gao Tu didn't give Wen Lang the satisfaction of agreement though. He wanted Wen Lang to work harder.
Lele confirmed a minute after.

Still Shen Wen Lang had to carry Lele down to the parking lot and buckle him to the child seat attached in the back seat. He settled on the driver seat as Gao Tu decided to sit on the passenger one. Well, truthfully, Gao Tu had no other choice because beside Lele's child seat was another child seat, which clued Gao Tu in to the fact that twins often travelled in this car. He was a bit calmed down after that observation.

When Lele was finally put to bed, he still asked to be scented one more time which Shen Wen Lang fulfilled happily.
Leading him to the door Gao Tu expressed "thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule for Lele, President Shen. And I am really sorry to disturb you in the office today." Shen Wen Lang smiled. He was going to go when he turned and asked "Gao Tu, can I call him erza (son) or baobei?" Gao Tu internally broke down at the permission and nodded. Shen Wen Lang gave him a big smile in gratefulness and confirmed "you have my number, if you ever need me for Lele or for you, please contact. And tell me when he gets better so I can arrange for a picnic. Good night Gao Tu."

They both went to sleep with a peaceful mind that night!

Chapter Text

The next day Gao Tu tried calling Wen Lang three times, all in vain, when he finally called Hua Yong and complained "your friend wasn't really serious about Lele or me, even after all that waterworks Mr. Hua." Hua Yong frowned "what happened?" So Gao Tu explained "I have tried calling him thrice now but he is not picking up the call. Is he in a meeting or something?' Hua Yong frowned "no, we don't have anything major scheduled for today. Let me check and I will get back to you in few minutes. Don't give up on him just yet Gao Tu, please." Gao Tu sighed but agreed.

Hua Yong called the house maid of Wen Lang and asked about him. She confided "Master Hua, Master Shen has very high fever and he is sleeping as of now. When I came in this morning, the entire house was looking like a tornado had hit. Before finally going for rest he murmured 'I am going to lose him again' and he has been sleeping since then."

Hua Yong was worrying by the time she completed her report and had packed a bag for the boys. He dropped the boys at Gao Tu's saying "Wen Lang is very sick. You look after the boys and I will see if he needs something or not." Lele clutched his pants before he could go and asked teary eyed "unlce Hua, is papa sick because of me? Yesterday I hug him the whole day when I had fever." Hua Yong soothed him "I am sure it's not because of that baby. I will tell you all about it in the evening okay?"

Hua Yong informed Mr. Sheng of the same while he was being driven to the Shen residence. He saw the maid carrying a dustpan full of glass shards and frowned. He stepped inside after replying to her greeting and his first thought was that the house reeked of distressed pheromones of a sick Alpha. On his way to his friend's room, he noticed that the glass railing of the staircase and the center table in living room were broken. Assessing other damages on his way, he finally reached his destination.

He entered the room and instinctually started spreading calming pheromones. Wen Lang whined at the smell of Orchids and threw a pillow at his direction. Hua Yong had to use his Enigma voice to control him. He then asked "what did you do Wen Lang?" He muttered "Gao Tu angry. He very angry. I don't deserve anything." Hua Yong sighed "how did you get sick then?" Wen Lang mumbled "overused my pheromones on a sick baby yesterday."

Hua Yong frowned "you are a S-Class Alpha. It shouldn't effect you. You are stronger than that." Seemingly Wen Lang was done speaking so he just tapped at the second drawer of his bedside table and turned his face to go to sleep.
Hua Yong opened the signaled drawer and found medical records. He hesitantly opened up the papers to read that Wen Lang was diagnosed Pheromone Mutiny. He gasped reading it and sat down on the bed, beside his friend.

According to the reports, Wen Lang was not allowed to use his pheromones since the one he was attached to has been withdrawn, essentially rendering his senses useless. His gland, connected to his heart, had accepted that his chosen mate had run away from him, and had stopped supporting him. He wondered back to all those times when he used his scent to calm down the twins. They loved his scent and asked to be bathed in it whenever he visited. He ventured deeper into the reports only to find that gland had ruptured a month ago.
Hua Yong knew what happened a month ago. The twins were playing pillow fight with Wen Lang in their home and one pillow had stuck his neck. He had winced but the kids made fun of him for pretending to be injured with just a pillow, so he continued playing. It must have been the last strand for his gland though.

Hua Yong was going to call Gao Tu to inform him of the same when Wen Lang turned in his sleep and accidentally touched him. He woke up with a startle not knowing who was in his bed. Seeing Hua Yong he calmed down but then he saw the report and sighed "so it wasn't a dream, you are really here. Do me one more favour A-Yong, please don't tell Gao Tu about it." Hua Yong nodded even when all his instincts were going against it.

Shen Wen Lang was going to go back to sleep but then asked "what are you doing here by the way? Did we have any big meeting that I missed?" Hua Yong confessed "Gao Tu called you thrice and when you didn't pick up, he called me to tell that he thinks you are not serious." Wen Lang's eyes widened as he reached for his phone and immediately dialed back.

Gao Tu picked on fourth ring and Shen Wen lang apologised first thing "I am so sorry Gao Tu. I was sleeping under the effects of medicine when you called so didn't hear my phone ringing. All okay? Do you need something? Does Lele need something?" Gao Tu replied calmly "everything's okay President Shen. He just wanted to play with you so I wanted to ask for your schedule. He knows you are sick, so for now, I think we will keep our distance."

Wen Lang pleaded "Gao Tu please don't be angry, I didn't know I would get sick in the middle of the night. And I am sharing my calendar with you. That way you can check my schedule anytime you want. I keep it relatively empty anyway." Gao Tu just wished him a speedy recovery and cut the call.

Wen Lang was ready to cry all over again when the pain in his glands seared. Clenching his neck, he shouted "Hua Yong, stop using your pheromones, you are hurting me." And Hua Yong immediately reeled in his pheromones.

After Shen Wen Lang saw that the call has been disconnected, he redirected his attention towards the unwanted guest and asked "promise me something A-Yong?" Hua Yong sat straighter "what?"
Taking a deep breath Wen Lang said "promise me you won't tell anyone about it. Not even your alpha."

Hua Yong stumbled "But I don't hide things from him. And what if...scrap that, you will need somebody by your side. We can help you." Wen Lang laughed sarcastically "if I needed help I would have told you when I came to know about it. It's been more than three years Hua Yong, I can manage myself. Just don't tell anybody. Please. I don't have the strength to beg anymore."
Hua Yong sighed but promised. He knew it will weigh heavily on his chest.

Three days later, Wen Lang had recovered enough that he could be back into the world of living. First thing he did was to text Gao Tu "how's Lele? And I have recovered fully now, and have a day off tomorrow. Can I take Lele out for a picnic?"

Gao Tu looked at the message for ten whole minutes then called for his son. He asked "Lele, papa has texted me. He says he is all good now and have a holiday tomorrow. He wants to take you out for a picnic. Would you like to go?"
Lele jumped in excitement "yes Lele wants to go. Lele wants to go. Please mama, please let Lele go."

Gao Tu nodded and confirmed that Wen Lang can pick up. Wen Lang was feeling testy so he wrote back "Mr. Gao Tu, you and your son are cordially invited to a picnic with Mr. Shen Wen Lang. You will be picked at 11.00 AM from your residency."

Gao Tu smiled seeing the message and just sent a thumbs up, unknown to the fact that Shen Wen Lang was literally bursting at seems at his home.

The next day, Shen Wen Lang arrived in his best casuals, a pair of losses pants and a shirt, to pick his family. He arrived five minutes early just in case and when he rang the bell, he could hear the laughter echoing on the other side.

Gao Tu opened the door and Lele jumped on him shouting "papa, we are going on picnic. Where are we going?" Wen Lang laughed as he picked up his son "that's a surprise son. Now, do you think it will take your mama very long to join us for the picnic?"

Lele frowned as he called for his mama. Gao Tu came back huffing "you are happy with your papa right? Give you mama a break." Wen Lang saw him carrying a bagpack and raised his brow in question. Gao Tu noticed and explained "an extra pair of clothes and some food and medicine."

Wen Lang nodded, extended his hand as if asking for the bag which Gao Tu passed, and talked with Lele as Gao Tu locked the door.

Buckling everything at its place, Wen Lang drovethem to a nearby park. He carried a bag of his own and the bag of Gao Tu's as he led the mother son duo to a big beautiful tree providing sample shade to last an entire day.
Setting up his blanket, Wen Lang called for Lele and said "so you know how papa is still only getting to know you, so papa didn't know what you would like to do on a picnic. Hence I have packed some food, some picture books, some colouring books, some block and a few toys. Can you teach papa how you like to play on your picnics?"

Listening to all of that Lele jumped excitedly as he babbled "colour first papa." Wen Lang nodded and extracted a folder from his bag labeled colours. Out of it came some plain papers, colouring books on different themes and types of colours. Gao Tu was astonished to see a new set of pencil colours, crayons and water pen.

Gao Tu rested by the tree trunk as the father son duo played around the entire afternoon. He had to beg Lele to settle down for lunch.
When the time for lunch came, Gao Tu and Wen Lang looked at each other as if asking whose lunch would they be opening. Gao Tu gestured that Wen Lang should spread his brings as he has only packed some fruits which they can eat as evening snacks too.

And he was stumped all over again when Wen Lang pulled out boxes after boxes of food. It had playing rice, egg fried rice, soup dumplings, normal dumplings, and beef broth soup. There was also cupcakes for dessert.

Gao Tu asked "how early did you ask your chef to come and prepare all of this?" Wen Lang shyly replied "I made all of this. I have been cooking for close to three years now. I hope you like it."

And Gao Tu had officially, internally, forgiven this mane that fate had destined him with.

Chapter Text

It had been a week since picnic and Wen Lang was taking his family to another picnic today. He had planned a lunch at a restaurant followed by a park date.

Lele was in awe when they entered the restaurant and squealed when a waitress tucked a napkin on his neck. He looked at his mama and said "mama, Lele big boy now. Will eat by myself." Gao Tu humored him "sure, be my guest."

When Wen Lang asked him what he would like to eat, Lele was confused. He turned to his mother again "mama, what does Lele eat?" Gao Tu laughed "you are a big boy now Lele, you should decide it all by yourself. And well, mama is going to have Shrimp in Sichuan Sauce and chicken legs."

Wen Lang asked for the waitress to note down the order. Keeping up the conversation he said "I would go for Prawns and egg fried rice." Lele jumped up at that "Lele will have that too. The rice, Lele wants that."

Gao Tu smiled at the sly move that Wen Lang just pulled to ensure that Lele feels competent. Lele retold everything that happened with him throughout the week to Wen Lang with a level of excitement that remained unrivaled.

When their food arrived, Lele was unsure on what to do. The waitress looked at Wen Lang who nodded, so she placed some rice on his plate and gave him the spoon, guiding him on how to eat.

After their lunch, when Gao Tu wondered why was there no cheque, Wen Lang took them to the park. Gao Tu sat on a bench nearby as father-son duo played around. They went on slides, swings, and sandbox, most importantly.

Lele's happy screams could be heard from a mile away. He was going to watch them unblinking, imprinting every moment in his memory, when somebody sat by his side. He turned to look at who joined them and was surprised to meet Sheng Shao You.

And before he could ask, he heard three squealing voices, all jumping around his alpha, maneuvering him as they pleased, as they cajoled him into playing hide and seek. Somehow, it was always Wen Lang who ended up being IT and had to contort himself to find the kids in the maze of the park.

He was peacefully enjoying the scene playing in front of him when Sheng Shao You interrupted "sorry to interrupt your family time but there's something I wanted to talk to you about." Gao Tu gave him his whole attention then, even shifting a little bit towards him.

Shao You continued "ever since A-Yong is back from his home when he fell sick he has been behaving weirdly. I asked him if he was hiding something and he actually said yes. When I asked what was it, he said that he won't tell me as it's not his story. Agh, I hate that sentence. That's how he keeps things from me."

Gao Tu frowned but Shao You was not done "when I reminded him of our pact of never hiding anything from each other, he countered "that's about each other, not about other people. I am not hiding anything that concerns any of us." I hate how right he is but I can't help but worry. I think you should talk to Wen Lang about it."
Gao Tu nodded and assured him that he would do the same.

They sat for an hour more, after which the kids came running to their respective mothers. A minute later, Shen Wen Lang followed with three ice cream cones in his hand.

Both the mothers frowned as the kids flocked around him, climbing him for their choice of cones. He bent down to give each kid their own cone, receiving a cheek kiss in exchange. When they settled down with the cones, he picked something from his back pocket and gave one chocolate each to the mothers on the bench.

Gao Tu frowned but before he could open the mouth Wen Lang explained "I know it's fruit time but they behaved so well. They didn't even fight and helped me find each other so a little sweet treat from my side. Don't worry, I will ensure they spend a lot of energy before going back home so you guys don't have any problem putting them to bed.

Shao You nodded in acceptance and gratefulness while Gao Tu just looked in challenge.
After ice cream Wen Lang collected the kids all over again and made them run rounds and rounds as they try to catch him.

Shao You said "he understand them no matter what. Never expected a man who despised their existence would be our go to baby sitter. And you have good person as your future spouse, whenever you plan to forgive and say yes, Gao Tu."

Gao Tu smiled "internally I forgave him last week but I am not telling him just now. I want to wait, see, test, maybe even deny him that sweet closure for a little longer."
Shao You laughed but clapped him on his back.

That night, Wen Lang drove three passed out kids in his car as they absolutely denied to not be together. When they reached the building, all three of them raised their arms to be carried.
Wen Lang laughed but said "okay, one on my back and two in front, you guys decide."

The kids immediately formed a circle to decide and when Wen Lang crouched Lele climbed his back while the twins held onto his neck. He picked all of them and took them to their respective houses.

When Lele was put on the ground, he asked "papa come back to scent me?" Wen Lang looked at Gao Tu who nodded so he also nodded.
When the twins were handed over, they whined "daddy, you losing your scent, scent us!" Wen Lang smiled as he exerted his pheromones in order to scent them. Happy and wobbling they went inside after that.

Lele was already in bed by the time he came back, and asked "papa, scent dimple as well?" Dimple was the name of his plushie that his father gifted him.
Wen Lang happily did that and when Lele was finally asleep, he padded himself towards the door.

Before he could open the door though, Gao Tu said "President Shen, Mr. Sheng said that Mr. Hua is worried about you. Is everything okay?" Wen Lang tensed for a second, then turned and smiled "everything is okay Gao Tu. He is just being over sensitive about something. I am perfectly fine. Thank you for the concern, though I hope they don't disturb you for nothing in the future."

Gao Tu said "I don't mind. You are the father of my child. And you can raise your head and look at me you know. Trying to maintain a relationship with our son, can you not even look at me? Do I disgust you that much?"

Wen Lang frowned and raised his head "I am trying to respect your privacy here Gao Tu. Because if I raised my head, you won't be the only thing I would see. Involuntarily, I will see the traces of your alpha, the one who has loved my son even before he was born. And as much as I am happy that you didn't suffer in this journey, I can't bear the presence of someone else so close to somebody I have always wished for. Please excuse me."

Gao Tu stopped him again though "somebody you have always wished for...what are you hinting at Shen Wen Lang?" Wen Lang took a step back "it is nice to hear my name again from you Gao Tu. And well, I have loved you since we were in college. But you told me you were a beta yet you were always smelling like an Omega. I had to presume that you were in a relationship and its not like you made any effort to clear my doubts. You knew what I was thinking but never cleared the air so I had to take a step back. I convinced myself that you will never be mine. I am sorry...it's not your burden to carry. Excuse me please."

Wen Lang ran to his car and drove himself home, diving in his blanket after swallowing his pills. His neck was paining as his scent gland was reacting to the aggressive scent of an Omega.
Next morning, after his inflammation had calmed down a little, he called Sheng Shao You. Shao You picked up the phone confused "hello Wen Lang, all good?" Wen Lang replied agitatedly "everything is perfectly fine Shao You. Just because your mate is a worrywart, doesn't mean you will pest Gao Tu like that. And if you want to know how I am doing, ask me. It's the least of the courtesy you can offer to the godfather of your sons. Don't bring the mother of my son in between, ever."

Now Shao You was angry too "first of all, you should be thankful that you are close enough for my mate to worry about, he doesn't just worry about anyone. And secondly, what do you mean by the mother of your son? Do you have no relationship with him of your own?" Wen Lang laughed sarcastically "I would have been grateful for the worry if it mattered to me, but there's nothing to worry about. And Gao Tu has made it plenty clear that he wants nothing to do with me, not even being my friend. So, mother of my son he is. Don't bring your nosy selves in my relationship, you guys have been of great help in that for past four years."
Wen Lang cut the call at that.

On Saturday, Wen Lang asked if he could take them to the theatre as new kids animation is up but Gao Tu denied saying "QiQi is taking him someplace tomorrow." Wen Lang accepted that he won't get to see his kid this week, wished him good night and was almost asleep when he received a notification.
It was from Hua Yong who said they would like to meet him. Wen Lang texted (12.00 Noon, my house) and went back to dreamland.

Next morning the Hua-Sheng arrived as a cavalry. The kids ran to their toy room as they were no guests to his house while the elders sat in the living room after Wen Lang had served them tea and snacks. Hua Yong started "I can't keep it anymore, not from Mr. Sheng at least. Please Wen Lang, don't shut us out like this. I am sure we can help you convince Gao Tu."

Wen Lang flared "Shao You, I have Pheromone Mutiny. This means that my sense of smell is vanishing slowly and my scent gland will die when it will feel like it. I like my life the way it is and I request you to not disrupt it by telling Gao Tu anything. And he cannot help anyways. I consulted a doctor, having a mate will only be fatal for me."

The couple sat appalled at the admission. Shao You gathered his courage to ask "since...since when did you know?" Wen Lang took a sip of his tea "three months after Gao Tu vanished, the night I realised he was an Omega and was pregnant when he ran away." Hua Yong frowned "you called me that night. I remember telling Gao Tu that his alpha is an idiot. Why did you never tell us?"

Wen Lang shrugged "as I said, it does not concern any of you. This is my problem and the only way you can help is by not releasing your pheromones." The last part was pointedly at the Enigma sitting there, who was releasing calming pheromones since his mate was in distress. Hua Yong tried his best reeling in his pheromones after that warning.

Shao You was still not satisfied "but...but usually, if you mate, your gland can still work? It won't be perfect, but it will be alive." Wen Lang laughed "yes, but the nerves connecting my gland to my heart, the reason it would have worked, is broken and irreparable. So no, there is no cure. And honestly, I have made my peace with it. I am reconnecting with Lele, I have A-Ming and A-Yu to live with. I think I can do it."

Everyone was quiet for a little while after that until the kids barged in shouting that they were hungry. Shao You was going to convince them that they were going home soon but Wen Lang asked them to stay. He had already prepared some dishes and served it all with a bowl of rice each. After lunch, the family of four left for their own weekend plans.

He was going to go back to resting as his neck was still not okay and Hua Yong's presence had only worsened it when he received a request of video call from Gao Tu. Chucking his blanket off, he immediately accepted the call. Lele was crying on the other side as Gao Tu tried his best to pacify him. Wen Lang spoke softly "Lele? What happened baby?"

Lele explained as he continued sobbing "aunty QiQi came...she took...took Lele to park. Lele thought you would be there. We meet every Sunday. You weren't. When I asked, she said...she said you don't love Lele, only A-Ming and A-Yu." He couldn't even continue after it as he sobbed into his mother's stomach. Wen Lang could feel himself flaring as he asked "do you want to go somewhere nice with mama and papa now? I am sure we can still meet."

Lele looked at him with eyes full of hope as he nodded his little head off its neck. Wen Lang laughed "good sweet boy, wipe off your tears and change your dress. You sit with mama patiently okay, papa will be there in no time baby."

After the confirmation Lele ran off to change his dress and so did Wen Lang. Situating himself at the driver's seat, he called Gao Qing from his Bluetooth. As he maneuvered his car towards his baby's house, Qing picked up the phone with unparallel excitement. She exclaimed "so, you came to know huh?" He took a deep breath as he said "must your hatred for me make your own nephew cry? He was inconsolable until I promised him that I am meeting him irrespective of time and that I will love no matter what someone says."

Gao Qing worried "he cried? He cried and Gege called you and not me?" Wen Lang sighed "yeah well, he was crying

because of his aunty so of course Gao Tu had to call me. What even is your problem? You have known him since he was three quarter of a year old. I have known him for three to four weeks. I am not even trying to insert myself in their lives, just trying to connect with my son? Why do you have to sabotage it?"

She shrugged "I don't like how Gege allowed you back in their lives so easily. Why do you even get to re-establish contact with them? I don't like it so I thought that if I convince Lele that you don't like him, everything would be back to normal." Wen Lang wanted to lash out, wanted to say that he was the one who paid for her surgery, who paid for her education, who got her the job, everything he has ever done for her, for them. But he controlled himself, thought of Lele sleeping in his arms contentedly, chasing him with a laughter that echoes in his mind for hours after and replied "you are right, I don't deserve it. But it wasn't my decision, or Lele's decision. So instead of trying to meddle between us like elementary school student, why don't you call your Ge and ask him why he let me in? Next time, communicate with the afflicted party like an adult you are Gao Qing, because I sure as hell do not like immature people working for me."

He cut the call as he had anyways reached the residency complex of his baby. Tapping his left foot while waiting for the elevator to reach the 20th floor, he planned a script in his mind.
When he finally pressed the doorbell of the apartment, it opened with Lele jumping in his arms, still crying. Switching off all the alarms blaring in his mind he scented his baby as he attempted to calm him down. It took Lele some time but he finally relaxed in his arms.

Wen Lang soothed "baby, papa loves you more than anything okay? Never believe anyone who says the opposite. If you want something from papa, ask me, not anybody else. Papa will try his best to do it for you." Lele clung to his neck "aunty lied. Papa loves me. I don't want to see aunty anymore."

That's when he saw Gao Tu emerging from the kitchen with a phone in his hand and a frown on his face. Seeing the duo he offered "please come in, Shen Wen Lang." Wen Lang denied "if you are ready to go, let's go. I have the rest of the day planned for us." Gao Tu didn't know what to say so nodded and followed them out.

Wen Lang buckled up Lele in his baby seat, giving him a fruit snack and kissing him on his forehead. He then drove them towards what he called his sanctuary once upon a time. When he was new to Jianghu, he used to visit an abandoned parking lot whenever he felt homesick. So, that's where he took them. Gao Tu was a bit worried when he didn't recognise where they were but trusted the alpha. Wen Lang asked him to wait for a minute as he got off the car and walked somewhere. Suddenly, there was a big projection screen in front of them and it showed a cartoon movie from 1990s.

Lele clapped in excitement as he was handed over his own bucket of popcorn while another was offered to Gao Tu. Wen Lang on the other hand sat with a little plate of fruits.

After the movie ended, Lele was in a considerably better mood. He was smiling as he recalled which scenes he liked and which he didn't alongside reasons. With both his parents humoring him, it was a good time.
Before they could take the last turn for the residency complex, Gao Tu hesitantly asked "I have to pick some groceries for the week. Do you mind driving to the store nearby?" Without replying Wen Lang drove straight to the parking lot of the grocery store near their home.

Lele was resting in Wen Lang's arms, who also handled the trolly with one hand, as they followed Gao Tu who was busy picking up his essentials. They must have separated as Wen Lang stopped to buy Lele some candies in Aisle 4 while Gao Tu moved forward to Aisle 5 for sauces and dips.
Gao Tu realised this when suddenly there was an unknown alpha in his vicinity who passed lewd remarks on him. Before Gao Tu could defend himself verbally, the man said "why are you even backing out of touch? You are neither claimed nor mated, forget being wed. You are so ugly I wonder who would even bed you. you should be grateful I am even offering to take you home for a night. Come on Omega, don't be shy."

Gao Tu repulsed from the touch and felt like he was going to puke himself when suddenly there was a deep growl from behind the man. It was Wen Lang who thundered "mated or not, if the Omega has shown that they are not interested in you, wrap your tail in between your legs and scram you filthy dog."
The man, a low class Alpha, was shocked seeing a S-Class Alpha defending the Omega and ran for his life. Wen lang tsked at his personality while checking on Gao Tu ensuring he was alright. Even Lele chose that moment to be in Gao Tu's arms, who was more than glad to have him back.

After getting himself back in control, Gao Tu said that he was done shopping and wanted to go back home. Wen Lang nodded, paid for everything as the cashier scanned and packed, and led them to the car. He then drove them to the complex.
Scenting Lele once again and wishing him a good night, Wen Lang backed out to leave. Gao Tu followed him out and asked "Shen Wen Lang, I am sorry...sorry to ask this but can you...can I...can I please hug you?"

Wen Lang stood shocked for a moment but then opened his arms. He could feel how rattled the incident had left the Omega in his arms so he released calming pheromones to sooth him. After Gao Tu was sufficiently satisfied, he thanked Wen Lang many times. Wen Lang dismissed the gratefulness and drove back home.

He texted Hua Yong (take over the operations for a day or two, I am severely inflamed) and went to sleep.

It had been three months of weekly outings, Gao Qing had backed out after getting thoroughly scolded by her brother so much that she even apologised to Wen Lang personally, when Lele asked something that Wen Lang was not sure he could provide.

They were at a theme park this time, when Lele clutched his arm and expressed "papa, A-Ming and A-Yu said that you have a very big house. They said it has many many rooms and special toy rooms for them. Can I see your house too papa? Can I play with one or two toys from their room?" The innocence in his words broke something in Wen Lang but he knew it was out of his control. He looked at Gao Tu who just raised a brow, as if challenging him on handling it himself.

Wen Lang took a deep breath and replied "but baby, papa's home is not clean. You know how mama says that you have to place everything back after using it, papa never does that so papa's place is a mess. That's why papa never invited you there baby. Papa doesn't want you anywhere near messes."
Lele tucked his bottom lip under his teeth as he though upon it. Wen Lang prayed to every deity above that his son would accept his lie. But of course, his son was smart, unlike him and just like his mother.

He asked "so you never clean up? But uncle Hua says you have a maid?" Cursing Hua Yong under his breathe, he smiled and negotiated "how about papa take you to his garden? I have a garden bigger than park and it has its own flower and butterfly section. I know my Lele would love to chase after them, won't you?" Lele was sufficiently distracted "yes papa, Lele loves butterflies. Lele wants to see them please?"
Wen Lang nodded "of course son, next week I will take you to my garden."

Lele went back to playing after the confirmation and Gao Tu wished him "nice save. And thank you for keeping the rules." Wen Lang smiled and went to look after his son. Inside he was crying because amongst all those rooms, there was one specially designed for Lele. He had toys that he had brought with the thought of giving his own child someday. What irony, he couldn't even bring him home, forget showing him the room he wanted Lele to own.

Chapter Text

Upcoming Saturday, Wen Lang ran from one point of the perimeter of his house to another ensuring everything was okay. He had prepared some snacks and soup base for the next day. The butterfly garden was beautifully growing and he had recently installed a gazebo. If Gao Tu permits, he would like to take Lele for a dip.

Unfortunately, by sundown, he received a message (don't pick Lele tomorrow, he would be with Mr. Hua and Mr. Sheng.) Wen Lang, as usual, accepted his fate and went to sleep.
He woke up fresh only to be upset by the thought of not being able to see his son today. He was lounging in his living room when he heard a car pull up in his driveway. Looking out if the window, he was shocked to see it was Hua-Sheng's.

He ran out to receive his guests and hugged all the three kids that the elder accompanied. Hua Yong said "Gao Tu had some urgent work today so we volunteered to bring over the kids." Wen Lang nodded and took kids to his newly installed butterfly garden.

All three of them went wild as Wen Lang explained to them different flowers and showed them the exhibit to different butterflies. They ran from one place to another, exploring different things in that garden house while Hua Yong and Sheng Shao You lounged nearby.

Wen Lang then brought over some fruits to calm down the kids. They sat in a circle with Wen Lang and talked all about their weekday and what they had learnt that day. He then offered "okay so kiddos, do you want to see my new baby pool?" They jumped in excitement.

He asked his own son "Lele, have you ever been to swimming pool? Or something similar?" Lele shook his head "Lele saw bathtub of A-Ming and A-Yu. Papa, problem?" Wen Lang smiled "that's not a problem baby. This is just a larger pool, not deeper, but open. Do you want to try, or you can sit with papa while the twins take a dip?" Lele looked at the encouraging nods of the twins and then nodded too.

Wen Lang helped them undress and picked one pup at a time to dip into the pool. When they were settled, he brought out some water toys and instructed "all set. Now you guys enjoy and if you need anything, call for me, okay? I am right there with other adults." They promised so off he went. He was within hearing and watchful range anyways.

When he was finally freed from the baby duty, Hua Yong asked "you looked surprised to see us? Gao Tu said that he had informed you though." Wen Lang sighed "he said that Lele is with you guys so I shouldn't pick him up. He never clarified that all five of you are coming. Anyways, stay for lunch?" The mates nodded.

Lele chose that moment to cry for his father so Wen Lang ran for him. He picked him out of the tub, wrapping him in a towel, and asked "all okay baby?" Lele shook his head "I scared papa." Wen Lang kept him close to himself without releasing excessive pheromones. He wanted to do the best for his baby without putting his own health at risk every single time.

They talked to each other about many different things while the twins soaked and played in water. When they were finally ready to come out, Wen Lang put Lele down and picked the twins out one by one. Dressing up all the pups, he carried them to an already set picnic mat. Everybody sat down around the food and talked about their past and future.

While the lunch was wrapping up, Wen Lang took Hua Yong aside and said "take the kids back home A-Yong. It's nearing nap time and I can't keep them any longer." Hua Yong frowned, it has never been a problem before, so Wen Lang explained "Gao Tu does not want Lele anywhere near my house. I can't bring him in. It is the sole reason I expanded my garden into this exhibition. I don't want to break his trust just because he is not here."

Hua Yong nodded and called for all the kids "babies, I have urgent meeting so we are all going back home. Daddy Wen needs to attend the meeting as well so baba will look after you guys back at home." They were upset with the new rule but complied after Wen Lang promised to take all three of them to a water park next Sunday.

For two more months this continued when one day Gao Tu got back home to a pile of gifts on his door. He picked the card kept solemnly above all of them and read "Gao Tu, I know you want nothing to do with me but I met you after 4 years and couldn't let go of this opportunity. HAPPY BIRTHDAY GAO TU.
PS: These are all the gifts I bought for you throughout the years. I hope they don't repulse you."

Opening the door to his home, Gao Tu pulled all the gifts inside. Since Lele was with QiQi, he sat on the floor near his couch opened the gifts one by one. The gifts consisted of a photo frame with their photos from high school till his last date, a coffee set that Gao Tu used to enjoy, some piece of casual clothes similar to what Wen Lang must have seen him in, a few books on self help and development.
He smiled when he noticed that the coffee was not expired, instead was the latest gift.

Keeping everything aside, Gao Tu called Wen Lang. When Wen Lang picked up, he was rattled "hello Gao Tu, all okay? Is Lele okay?" Gao Tu giggled "everything is okay Wen Lang, you don't have to be worried every time I call. I thought I might call you to thank you for your such thoughtful gifts. I will use them judiciously."

Wen Lang smiled "it's not an issue Gao Tu. I am happy you liked them." Gao Tu struggled with what he wanted to say next but finally uttered "do you...uhm...do you want to have dinner tonight? Not outside I mean, at my home. I will cook."

Wen Lang sat shocked then asked "but Lele?" Gao Tu laughed "oh my. Yes you will meet your son at his home. You are more excited to meet him than your old friend. Should I be jealous?" Wen Lang stuttered "friends? We are friends now?"

Gao Tu nodded, then confirmed. Wen Lang smiled and thanked him whole heartedly.

That evening Wen Lang rang the doorbell with flowers in one hand and cake in another. Gao Tu was shocked when he opened the door "I though I received all the gifts?" Wen Lang came in while handing over the flowers "I couldn't come empty handed to my friend's birthday in a long time now, could I?" Lele joined them the moment Wen Lang kept the cake on dining table and he immediately picked up the little one.

Lele excitedly told "papa, it's mama's birthday today. I made him a card. You wanna see?" Wen Lang nodded as he smiled, Lele's excitement bouncing off him as well.

They had a peaceful dinner after which Lele played with Wen Lang. When he was asked to go to sleep, he whined "but mama, I don't see papa every day. Please some more time?" Wen Lang interfered as he pacified "baby, papa will see you soon okay? But you have to go to sleep so that you can grow up to be strong like your mama." Lele gave him a dim smile and went to bed. Of course, Wen Lang had to scent him thoroughly before he could fall asleep.

Gao Tu offered him a stem of wine after Lele went to sleep which Wen Lang accepted gingerly. They sat side by side, speaking about mundane things. Suddenly Gao Tu said "Mr. Hua told me that you sent kids back early that day because you didn't want to break my rule. Thank you for keeping your words."
Wen Lang smiled "if that's all it takes to keep my connection with Lele, I would do it in a heartbeat Gao Tu."

Gao Tu smiled, then frowned "when we talked last, you said you didn't want to feel the presence of my alpha that's why you never raised your eyes. Well, the truth is...I had no alpha. It has always been you. Mr. Hua used to get me your clothes every month, for my nest and pheromone disorder. Thanks to them, it actually cured my hormonal and pheromonal disorder."

Wen Lang sat quietly for so long that Gao Tu started feeling agitated. But before he could apologise, Wen Lang said "Hua Yong never told me that it was my pheromones, he just mentioned that you had an Alpha. I am...I am glad that my pheromones helped you get back on your feet. I hope you are staying away from your inhibitors now."

Gao Tu nodded. He was perplexed seeing this reaction. He couldn't control himself and asked "why are you not angry? I did nothing but lie to you, deceive you, and hide from you, everything that you have always hated."
Wen Lang smiled but his eyes were so dim a well lit room could loose its light. He said "yes I hated all of those things Gao Tu. I still do. But I could never hate you Gao Tu. My love for you is much stronger than my hatred for those things. And I understand. You hid because of my hatred for Omegas, you went away because I said I would make them drop my baby, you hid because you wanted to safeguard Lele. All the more reasons I could never hate you."

Gao Tu had tears in his eyes "thank you. Thank you for accepting me, and Lele. He has been happier ever since he interacted with you. He looks forward to Sunday thinking its his and his papa's days. You have made my somber child a lively toddler. I could....I could never repay you for all those things."

Keeping his empty stem on the table, Wen Lang said "please. You have nothing to repay for Gao Tu. In fact I am grateful that you allowed me to have a relationship with Lele. It's your birthday today yet you gave me the best gift of being friends again. I couldn't ask anymore of you Gao Tu. Please don't think you owe me anything, ever."

Gao Tu cried in his arms for a while after hearing it. When he quieted down, Wen Lang said "rest Gao Tu, its late. I also have to go back now. I will see you on Sunday okay?" Gao Tu nodded in his arms as they wished each other good night.

That Sunday, Wen Lang picked up all of them and was astonished to see Gao Qing accompanying them. He heaved a sigh as he got out of the car to remove the car seats from the back seat. He placed two seats in the trunk and the third one on the passenger seat. Gao Tu stood shocked at that decision.

Wen Lang shrugged seeing his expression as he buckled up his son in the passenger seat. Lele was excited when he learnt that he was going to accompany his father that day. Siblings sat themselves at the back seat while Lele babbled to his father. That day they were going for a movie, lunch and a play store. Dinner if Gao Tu agreed.

Lele absolutely denied to be put down or be in any one else's arms. Gao Tu let them be and enjoyed his day with his sister. When they were coming back, after dropping Gao Qing, Gao Tu said "Wen Lang, I have picked a few schools for Lele, would you like to help me finalise?"

Wen Lang was shocked "you want me to help? I mean I thought I was just there for Sunday." Gao Tu looked at him "you have proven to be much more than visiting parent Wen Lang. If you want, you can even be the emergency contact at his school."

It took Wen Lang all of his efforts to not jump in excitement as he was still driving. Once they reached the complex, Wen Lang immediately stepped down and opened the door for Gao Tu before he could. When he stepped out, Wen Lang asked if he can hug him. It made Gao Tu laugh as he engulfed his friend.

That night, after putting Lele to bed, they went through schools and Wen Lang fought to put Lele in the best private school of JiangHu. When Gao Tu said that he couldn't afford it, Wen Lang immediately offered to help. He said "I am his parent too right? So allow me to bear the cost alongside you. I am not over riding your decision, I just want the best for him."
Gao Tu gulped as he agreed.

For next few months, Wen Lang could see how, whenever he suggested something outside of Sunday trips for Lele, Gao Tu would ponder over it like it was a life or death decision. He observed how Gao Tu tried his best to deny him basic opportunities of being a parent like accompanying to parent-teacher meeting and show-and-tell. He tried to keep his mouth shut but when, one afternoon he received a call from the school saying that Lele was crying for him and his other emergency contacts were not reachable, his dam broke.

He went to the school to pick his son and asked the receptionist to confirm how many people were on the list. She informed that he was the third one, following Mr. Gao and Mr. Hua. He nodded politely, collected his child after fulfilling all the formalities and took him to his office. Well, the houses were still off limit for him. He couldn't take Lele to his own house and he didn't want to invade Gao Tu's space, not like he knew the passcode anyway.

Lele had a minor scratch and just wanted to be pampered. He treated the wound and gave him a fruit snack as he wrapped his work for the day.
When Gao Tu called him to inform that he would be home in ten minutes, Wen Lang confirmed that they would be there in twenty too. Dropping Lele off, and putting him to sleep after scenting him, Wen Lang turned to Gao Tu and said "if you don't want me to be a parent to my own kid but be a Sunday to Sunday babysitter, tell me Gao Tu. My feelings are not a jump rope for you to be playing around with. You questioned my advise for him, I didn't say anything. You didn't pay any heed to my plans for his future, I ignored it. But being told that I myself am the third emergency contact for my own son, for whatever fucking reason you thought is valid, is more than enough to tell me what my place should be in his life. Do me a favour Gao Tu, and tell our son why he won't be seeing his papa randomly anymore. And this time, for the love of God and your own dignity, own upto yourself and tell him the truth. Tell him that you couldn't bear to let his papa enter his life. That you couldn't see him having a beautiful, positive relationship with his father. Tell him that you were the roadblock why I could never take my own son to his second house. Fucking co-parents have better rules for each other than you do for me Gao Tu."

He panted "I know I made mistakes. Its not like I deny them or ignore them. And I am trying my best to ensure that I don't repeat them. But you are making it very difficult for me to not lash out at you again Gao Tu. You wanted whatever privacy or freedom, I never interfered in it. I never asked what you did, how you did, never even questioned how you are raising our child. You maybe the mother Gao Tu, but this is JiangHu. If I went to court I would have gotten mandatory 50% custody. It is my respect for you and your struggles with him that I never went with it. Don't take it as a threat that I would ever go. I won't, but I will also ensure that this time when we lose contact, he blames the right person. Goodbye Gao Tu."

Wen Lang left, the door squeaked of his absence as Gao Tu was rattled with the consequences of his actions.

Chapter Text

Hua Yong was busy preparing breakfast for his family as Mr. Sheng was supposed to leave for office while Gao Tu would come by to pick up the twins to drop all three at the day care when his phone rang.

He picked it up without seeing the caller ID and was shocked to hear "am I speaking with Mr. Hua Yong?" He confirmed his identity only to listen "this is Adv. Jiang. I am personal lawyer of Mr. Shen. He contacted me yesterday night as he has made some changes in his will and asked me to inform you first thing in the morning."

Keeping his utensils aside and switching off the stove, Hua Yong sat down beside Sheng Shao You on the sofa. The kids were playing in front of them so he didn't pay much attention to them. The lawyer explained his reason to contact "he has created a trust fund that will be inherited by Mr. Shen Gao Lele when he turns 18. Any attempt to acquire that money before he comes of age or after he turned 18 by any person other than him or for any reason that is not his education, health and Mr. Gao Tu's health would be considered embezzlement of funds, and would be treated as such. Also, all of his assets including his properties, shares, and cars, but limited to so, will be divided equally between Mr. Shen Gao Lele, Mr. Hua Sheng Ming, and Mr. Hua Sheng Yu, in case something happens to him. Any history, personal and medical, if revealed to any person will be treated as breach of trust, privacy, and medical confidentiality. The revealer will be sued for such distrust. This call is being recorded to ensure that all the details are being relayed and no miscommunication ensues. Any queries from your side Mr. Hua?"

Hua Yong sat dumbstruck recalling all of this information then asked "he has a child of his own, is there nothing for the mother of his child?" The lawyer checked his papers and he could hear the ruffle of it, then confirmed "except that he is allowed to go through his son's fund in case of medical emergency, no, there's nothing more. There's a note though. It says "in good conscience, I cannot leave you more than this Gao Tu. I still love you and I am grateful that you gave me an heir and a chance to connect with him, but with what you allowed me, this is my payback."

Hua Yong hummed "thank you. Nothing more for now. Can I connect with you in case I have anything more to ask about?" The lawyer agreed and the call was cut. That was the moment Gao Tu opened the door and the three kids squealed seeing each other but Hua Yong's phone rang again. Sheng Shao You saw him debilitating over whether to pick the call or not, which he finally picked up anyway.

This time, Hua Yong greeted familiarly "Dr. Li, everything okay?" Dr. Li informed "Mr. Hua, yesterday night Mr. Shen was here. He has changed all his contacts which ensure that you are no more his medical emergency contact. Actually, no one is. He has asked me to inform you of this change before going for any procedure which I can no longer inform you about as you are not his contact anymore."

Hua Yong tried to negotiate "Dr., you have known me for years now. You know that I am his only family right now, please, there must be some clause through which we can over ride this." Dr. Li thought, then said "if there's somebody biologically connected to him, or his mate, we can inform them if something serious happens."

Hua Yong thought then asked "Lele is Wen Lang's son, biologically his. You can inform him right?" Dr. confirmed "and how old is this child?" Hua Yong sighed "almost four." Dr. negated "the child has to be at least 16 years of age to be informed of such delicate matter. If there's nothing else, please excuse me."

This time everyone was watching him so he sent the kids to their room and then explained whatever had happened. Sheng Shao You frowned while Goa Tu broke down. He retold everything that had happened last night. How his actions had led Wen Lang away from them and how Wen lang was not picking his phone now.

Hua Yong sighed as he berated "you remember when you wanted to run? I was the one to offer you protection. I even went against my best friend to safe guard you. You think I am blind? You think I can not see how you have been treating him these past few months. As if he is donkey working hard for the love of his child which his treat, just in front of him but not attainable. You tried to keep him away from his own child. That morning when he cried on my dining table, you were on call. You heard every confession, every tear of his. I thought you might soften a little yet you were cruel to the extent of being the cruelest. He has a medical disorder. He forbid me from telling you anything about it because he is not recoverable. He just wanted last of his time to be spent happily with his son, because you even refused to be his friend for the longest time. And you know, I can't tell you now because he has put it in his will that if anybody says anything, they will be sued for medical confidentiality. It is time for you to think back on your actions Gao Tu, this time you snatched the father from your son."

He continued "that day when we took the kids to his home, he told me your rules. I was dumbstruck. You know he has a room just for Lele in that big mansion? He curated that entire garden in a week because he promised his son to bring him home. Lele was injured yesterday yet he couldn't take him anywhere he would regard as a safe place because you didn't permit. And for God's sake Gao Tu, even I didn't know that I ranked above him in emergency contact list of his own son. I understand your animosity but has he done nothing in past few months to prove that he has changed for better? You have listened to the boys rave about him for ages and yet, this is how you chose to treat him. Don't tell me you are ashamed Gao Tu, you are just upset because you are to be blamed this time."
Hua Yong left them in the living room then to complete cooking his breakfast. It was served ten minutes later and everyone ate somberly.

It had been three months since that day. Hua Yong had to take over the operations of HS Biotech completely because Shen Wen Lang was in hospital. When he was unreachable for two days, Hua Yong marched into the hospital only to be told that he is no more family so he cannot be allowed access to his own best friend. He asked who is and was told "he had stated 'three kids' are allowed. And that is only if he is awake. Which he is currently not." Hua Yong had to ask "what is his timing so I can bring the kids accordingly?" The medical receptionist huffed and exclaimed "Mr. Hua, he is in coma. We don't know when he will wake up. When he does, I am sure the doctor will inform you, if he allows."

Defeated, Hua Yong trekked back to his home.

The kids were then exclusively taken care of by Gao Tu, who had to leave his job for the three of them, as the work load doubled on the mated couple.

Gao Tu noticed that the day since Wen Lang disappeared, Lele started behaving distant with him. He tried to coax Lele into doing activities with him, taking him to the parks nearby, talking to him but nothing worked. He could see that Lele would play nicely and smile widely whenever he was with the twins but with adults, he would always be politely distant. He also called him mama rarely, only on occasions where he couldn't frame a sentence without the word.

All of this was cutting deep into him, as for the love of God, he couldn't decipher the reason behind change of attitude in his son.

One night, after he had just finished cleaning up, he went to his son's room and asked "Lele, you are turning 4 in a month. What do you want for your birthday son?" "nothing much. Just a playdate with A-Ming and A-Yu." "But you have that everyday son. I am sure you would want something else for your birthday." Gao Tu tried coaxing him.

Looking dead in the eyes Lele said "not like you can give it to me anyways mama." The venom in that sentence left Gao Tu reeling such that it was enough for him to take a step back. He stuttered "why...why do you think so son? Is it something expensive? I am sure mama can buy it for you." Lele continued staring "really mama? Then can you please bring papa back?"

Gao Tu thundered "Lele!" Lele turned to the wall "told you, you can't give me my gift. Good night." And he went to sleep just like that, uncaring of what his mother was feeling.

Gao Tu cried to sleep that night.

He didn't know how to bring back his relation with his son. He didn't understand till that moment that it was not just Shen Wen Lang he had hurt but his own son, the one he vowed to protect against anything, whom he had hurt the most. He could not believe that in just the few months that they were in contact, they bonded so strongly that now Gao Tu's years of struggle was rendered to nothing.

Lele's fourth birthday finally came and so did the Hua-Sheng family. They were celebrating quietly, the twins had also calmed down in their intensity after realising Daddy Wen is missing from their life, maybe permanently, when the doorbell rang. The boys stood up so fast, expecting Shen Wen Lang on the other side that they were saddened into silence when it turned out to be an unknown person.

The man asked "is there a Mr. Shen Gao Lele living here?" Lele approached him slowly and nodded when he reached the threshold. The man forwarded a gift wrapped package and said "your papa has left this gift for you. He had asked me to convey that he loves you very much and that he is sorry that he couldn't spend even one birthday with you. He wishes you all the very best for your school year and hopes that you study hard and achieve great things."

Lele cried hearing that as all the other eyes were teary too. He hugged the man's legs and asked "uncle, do you know where my papa is? Can you please take me to him? Lele promises to be the best boy, please take me to him." The man knelt down as he said "your papa is in hospital. He is sleeping very deeply right now. We don't know if he will wake up or not, but for you, I hope he does. And, he has told me that if you ever want to feel him, you are more than welcome to visit his home or his office. He has requested that Mr. Hua Yong can take you three kids to those places whenever you want."

The kids clutched him tight as they cried at the information.

After the man went away, Lele tore open the gift as if it was the most precious things. It was small photo frame which had six photos of theirs. Just Lele and his papa. The were from the time when they went to the picnic, when Lele first visited his house, his office even when he was sick, the impromptu movie night after his aunt had upset him, their aquarium date since Lele was in awe the entire day and the planetarium visit as Lele couldn't stop talking about the planets and the solar system. In the middle of it all was a note from Wen Lang "papa loves you Lele."

Lele hugged it close to his chest and cried. When Gao Tu tried comforting him, he shrugged him off, instead going to his cousins for support. Gao Tu stood disassociated from himself as he saw his son asking for comfort from someone else.

After settling down Lele turned to his mother and roared "its all because of you mama. I was awake that night, the night I got injured. When papa talked to you. I once asked him if he loved the twins more because they were allowed in his house and I wasn't and he told me its because he is still getting to know me. It was a lie, you told him I couldn't go. You kept him away from me mama. I hate you for that and if he does not come back, I will also never forgive you for that. From now on, I don't want to spend my Sundays with you. It used to be my day with papa and I want to go to his house every Sunday." Turning to Hua Yong, he asked "Uncle Hua, will you please take me to his house every Sunday?"

His own twins started pleading for the same so he sighed and surrendered. Sheng Shao You didn't have any say anyways so he sat quietly. Gao Tu really couldn't comprehend how he went from single parent having a lovely son to single parent whose son hated him in just few months. As much as he wanted to hate Wen Lang, he really couldn't.

Seeing how Wen Lang had stated everywhere that only kids were allowed alongside Hua Yong, he understood that his presence was not really wanted. He wanted to laugh at the fact that Wen Lang still wrote it everywhere that he loved him, he just couldn't bring himself to like this version of him. He was really laughable at the moment.

The party wrapped up after another cry session because the twins were missing him too much as well.

It became a ritual then that on every Sunday the kids would trail behind Hua Yong and visit his house. The twins introduced every part of the home to Lele saying "it is yours anyway, you should know about it." They didn't know about the inheritance clause but they understood that Lele was Daddy Wen's son so he got first pick.
They could never open the room build for Lele though. It was locked with fingerprints.

On the twins fourth birthday a few months later, the man appeared out of nowhere again to give them their gifts as well. That's when they came to know that he was the lawyer who had communicated the changes in will that one morning.

It had been more than an year since everything went downhill, Wen Lang was still sleeping and Lele was turning five. It was the day of his fifth birthday when Hua Yong woke up to a message from an unsaved number "bring the kids to Room 5813, A-Yong. And don't tell anyone."

Chapter Text

Hua Yong couldn't believe his eyes when he read the message. He read it thrice then finally curated a plan. He collected all three kids from Gao Tu's home saying "the lawyer has contacted me. His today's gift is awaiting at Wen Lang's home." Lele skipped as he approached the car.
When they finally reached the hospital Lele screeched "uncle Hua, why we in hospital?" Hua Yong smiled "you will see Lele, this is where your birthday gift is this time."

When they entered the hospital, the main nurse on duty took one look at them, counted three children outwardly, then nodded at Hua Yong in greeting like they were old friends. She even led them to the lift and pressed floor number 20 wising Lele a Happy Birthday as the gates closed.
Lele jumped as he exclaimed "she knew it's my birthday uncle. She even wished me." Hua Yong smiled "mhm, so we have to be good boy and say thank you when we go back okay?" Lele nodded.

Deboarding at 20th floor, they were welcomed by Dr. Li who took them to Room No 5813. He opened the door and kids entered after the adult.

When they saw Wen Lang, sitting on his bed with a tentative smile, they couldn't believe their eyes. Even Hua Yong was in shock. Lele turned to his uncle and asked "is papa really awake? You are not playing with me right uncle?"

Wen Lang laughed "Happy Birthday Lele. Would you be upset if I say that I am your gift this time?" Lele absolutely jumped upto his bed "thank you papa. I missed you, I could never be upset at you papa. This is the best gift ever." Wen Lang smiled.

Turning to Hua Yong he asked "can you please put the three on bed? I would like to be on eye level with them." Hua Yong settled all three at the bed and they rambled like their life depended on it. They told him everything that happened in past year and a quarter when he was fast asleep. Wen Lang also aha-ed and ooh-ed at the right places. He was listening to them aptly when he noticed that Lele said not a single word about his mama. It didn't sit well with him.

After they were done retelling everything, Wen Lang pushed softly "and is nobody going to tell me how's Gao Tu?"
Lele looked down while the twins looked at Lele.

Wen Lang raised his chin and asked "did you have a fight with your mama Lele? What happened? Is everything okay?"
Sobbing, Lele explained "that night, when you fought, I was awake papa. I know you went away because of mama. So, last birthday I shouted at him. Told him I hate him because he made you go away papa."

Wen Lang sighed "Lele, baby we don't shout at mama, ever. What happened between us was not supposed to affect you baby. You wanna know what actually happened? Coz that night is not the whole truth." All three boys nodded in unison.

They settled themselves around him, laying comfortably clutching him as he began "Gao Tu and I have known each other for fifteen years now. We met in high school. He was my best friend. We went to college together and then, he started working as my secretary when we worked. At that time I used to hate babies. You know why?"

They shook their head so he explained "coz my baba and papa treated me very badly. They would leave me alone for days and not even look after me. So I didn't like children. Gao Tu knew this so when he came to know that he was expecting Lele, he asked A-Yong's help to hide. He was only protecting you Lele. Your mama loved you even before you were born."

"I went to therapy after I lost my best friend. It made me realise how wrong I was but, by then, I had lost my friend, and my baby. Then you twins came. I didn't know Gao Tu was here because he still thought that I hated kids. But I started bonding with you two. He knew that I was progressing so he finally introduced me to Lele. But we had rules. And they were necessary because I had just met you Lele. Your mama was not wrong in any of it baby. We just had to talk more and better. Which we failed in as adults. That's on us. You got it baby?"

Lele nodded but he had tears in his eyes as he wobbled "mama hates Lele now?" Wen Lang hugged him tight "shush little baby, mama could never you Lele. Mama loves you a lot just like you love mama. So today, when you go back home, give him a big big hug and say sorry to him okay? Tell him how much you love him and all will be okay again."

A-Ming asked " daddy Wen, you coming?" Wen Lang smiled "no baby, daddy Wen has to stay here for few more months. You can visit me here though instead of going to my home if Gao Tu and Shao You allows you guys okay?"
They nodded.

When they were leaving Wen Lang gave a letter to Lele and said "give this to your mama after you have said sorry."

Hua Yong sat on a couch by the bedside but he had his own set of questions. Wen Lang gazed at him and answered "come without kids and I will answer." Hua Yong nodded and led the kids outside.

They reached home at around lunch where Sheng Shao You and Gao Tu were waiting for them. Lele barged in as soon as the door opened and hugged his mama tight. he cried in his arms, which, as much as it rattled Gao Tu, it also brought him relief. He tried consoling his son asking what had happened? Had something hurt him at his papa's house? His looked at the twins for answer who ran to their baba and hugged as they thanked him. Now two mothers were staring at Hua Yong who was looking at the floor.

Lele finally calm down enough to sniffle and mumble "mama Lele is sorry. Lele does not hate mama, Lele loves mama. Lele loves mama the most in the world. Lele was just upset that Lele would not meet papa anymore so Lele shouted. Papa told me that he was in the wrong and that Lele should never shout on mama, ever. Lele is really sorry mama. Please don't hate Lele."
He began wailing after that.

Gao Tu comforted him "mama doesn't hate Lele, baby. Mama can never hate Lele. You are my little baby, how could I ever hate you Lele." Lele cried clutching him.

When he was finally out of tears, Gao Tu redirected him towards his room and said "freshen up baby, mama has made your favourite for lunch. You should not cry on your birthday, okay." Lele nodded and was going to turn when he halted and gave his mother an envelope explaining "papa said to give it you after saying sorry. Please don't hate on him as well mama."

Gao Tu nodded so Lele ran towards his room. Shao You had also sent his twins to follow him. Before Hua Yong could be interrogated, he said "I didn't know he was awake. I received a message this morning to bring the kids at the hospital and I did. I would never jeopardise their safety, please believe me. Also I recorded the whole conversation Gao Tu, already sent it to you. You can listen it later. He has asked for both of your permissions to bring the kids to the hospital for Sunday visits from now on."

Gao Tu kept the letter aside as he served lunch since the kids were back. After such a emotional first half, all three minors went for a nap while Gao Tu went back to his room to read the letter in privacy. The mated couple had retreated back to their home.

Gao Tu,

There's so much to apologise, where should I even start from? Maybe the most recent one? I am sorry for asking Hua Yong to bring Lele to me like that. Like I didn't need your permission to meet him. Like I can overrule your decisions concerning his well being like I had any right. Like I hold any importance or rights in his life to come and go as please. Please don't hold this one against me!

I...I woke up a month ago only and have some distorted memories due to being in coma for so long so I hope you forgive me for that as well.

And I wanted to apologise to you for that night as well. The day I shouted. You didn't deserve that. I was just hurt, I am sorry I erupted on you like that. But I promise if you would have told me, explained to me your reasons for making A-Yong the second emergency contact, I would have tried my best to understand. I know my limits and I know when to interfere and when not.

I know all your decisions are ultimately to protect Lele and I support that. I have proven nothing but to be disaster anyway. If you wish for me to back off from Lele's life, I would. I have decided that this time I am going to follow your lead, no questions. If you want me to vanish from the face of earth and it would ensure that you would be happy and safe, I would gladly do it.

I know I am not in any condition to ask you of anything. But c an I please ask you to not hate me? I have loved you for too long to die knowing you hate me. You can treat me like a stranger, a nightmare, but please don't hate me.

Feel free to tell me off.
Your daydream that turned into nightmare
Shen Wen Lang

Gao Tu had to take multiple deep breathes throughout the letter to ensure that he does not breakdown. He understood that Wen Lang had written the letter before inviting the kids that's why there was nothing about the talk in there. Anyways he opened the voice message sent by Mr. Hua and started listening to it. Seeing how Wen Lang took the entire blame, how he started therapy just to deal with the loss of Gao Tu and his baby, how he started treating twins as his own like he was compensating for something healed a part of him yet broke something.

He couldn't comprehend even his own emotions after that. He had no tears to cry with and no sound to laugh at himself. he also had no power to forgive the man he once loved with all his heart.

On the other hand, Sheng Shao You was in disbelief that his mate had done something like that. He grilled Hua Yong on traumatizing Gao Tu all over again and then demanded to listen to the recording as well. Hua Yong knew when to fight and when to surrender. And this time, he chose the latter. After listening to it though Shao You calmed down. He stated "I want to come with you tomorrow" to which Hua Yong nodded and they went for a nap in each other's arms as well.

Shen Wen Lang didn't know what awaited him. That evening, when the actual birthday party was to be hosted, before the guests i.e. the friends of Lele from kindergarten arrived, Gao Tu announced " Mr. Hua, you can take Lele to his papa every Sunday. I don't have any issue." Lele hugged his mama tight after the hearing that, declaring that he was the best mama in the world and that he loved his mama the most.

Gao Tu, even if he wanted to, couldn't hate Wen Lang. Wen Lang had after all returned his son to him. The party was a blast and Hua Yong sent a picture of cake cutting ceremony to Wen Lang. Wen Lang just replied "thank you."

Next morning, Mr. and Mr. Hua entered Wen Lang's room only to see him attached to tubes and machines. Hua Yong exclaimed "what's all this? You weren't so...tied up yesterday." Wen Lang gave him a wobbly smile "couldn't traumatise the kids by letting them see me like this, now could I?" He signaled that they should sit so they did, on a couch near him.

There was a pin drop silence which Hua Yong broke "you removed me as your primary contact from every place. You blocked all routes for me to contact you. I couldn't bribe my way into your medical files because you got them in paper format and sealed somewhere. Why? Is it...is it because Gao Tu made me second emergency contact? I swear I had no knowledge of it until after the day you had fight. I would have persuaded him myself if I had known earlier Wen Lang."

Wen Lang smiled "nah, the kids deserve a stable emergency contact, which I really couldn't be at the time. I would never fault you for that. That night, when I was shouting on him, I forgot about my pheromones and let them run lose. My gland was swollen and so fragile that it disrupted my entire nervous system putting me in coma. The will was already made like that. I had constructed it in such a manner that if something ever happens to me, that would be the message circulated. I know you worried but I couldn't let you in when I was not even conscious enough to remember you. It was a way to safeguard myself. Now that i am awake, you are back as my emergency contact. I know its a hassle, i hope you don't mind."

Hua Yong sighed "you are my best friend Wen Lang, I would never mind being your go-to contact. But please stop giving me heart attack like that. Also, why did you take all the blame yesterday?" Wen Lang said "because Gao Tu gave up everything to safeguard Lele. he doesn't deserve that hatred just because I couldn't handle the reality."

Sheng Shao You hesitated "have you really been to the therapy?" Wen Lang frowned, connected the dots, then looked at Hua Yong in accusation. He asked "would you ever get rid of your bad habits? Anyways, yes I did. You think a man like me, who hated the concept of sex, omega, and kids would ever be the godfather that I was to your twins? I had to go through extensive therapy for that. I still do, I mean. Ever since I woke up."

He then asked "didn't it affect your health when you got rid of all your medical equipment yesterday?" Wen Lang looked around "I was on drugs. I remember a few things but currently I am on such doses that it doesn't really matter." Sheng Shao You relayed "Gao Tu has agreed to send the kids to you every Sunday. He says its good for Lele."
Wen Lang nodded "good. That's all I have ever wanted."

They then discussed how business has been in his absence and his recovery path and when he was planning to come back.

For next three months the kids visited him in hospital. Wen Lang had absolutely no contact with Gao Tu. After that first letter, he couldn't bring himself to initiate anymore contact. He had apologised. he had said whatever he could muster up to. He couldn't do anything anymore. He was just glad that Gao Tu still allowed him to meet Lele.
He was then discharged from hospital with a long list of do's and don'ts so for the first Sunday of the fourth month, kids were brought to his house. When they asked him to play this and that, he had to explain, very heavy heartedly, that he was still not well and he couldn't exert much physical force. So they had to play around him and could only talk to him till he fell asleep under the pressure of his medicines. Hua Yong would then collect the kids who would kiss him goodbye before silently buckling themselves in his car.

It was the fifth Sunday when Lele arrived with a letter from his mama. He giggled as he passed the piece of paper and Wen Lang asked what's so funny, he replied "mama wrote that letter many many times before choosing this one to give to you." Then he went back to playing with his cousins.

As usual Wen Lang fell asleep first, Hua Yong cleaned the room, picked the kids, and left for their own home. But this time when Wen Lang woke up he clutched the letter in his hand tighter. He was not ready to face whatever was written inside but opened it anyway.

Shen Wen Lang,

There's so much to tell you that I don't even know how to begin. Maybe the most recent one? Thank you for returning my kid to me. I have said it before, and it hold true to this day, Lele is brighter with you around. I never thought that losing a parent would do this much damage to my relationship with my own son. For a month I thought it was a mistake to ever introduce you two but he looked so I couldn't take it back from him.

I would also like to thank you for telling the kids whatever you did. Yes, Mr. Hua sent me the recording. And yes, I listened to it after reading your letter.
That reminds me, I understand where you come from. Now. After reading your letter and going through it again and again. You were right when told the kids that we failed as adults when we didn't communicate better.

And also, just to confirm, I don't hate you. Not anymore that is. It has been a long road but yeah, that's where I am currently.

Take care of yourself, Lele tells me you are still too weak to do anything.

Get well soon Nightmare
Gao Tu

Wen Lang was teary eyed when he read the last line and laughed.

It took him two days to muster all his courage but he finally picked his phone and dialed a number which he thought had blocked him. Gao Tu picked up "hello Shen Wen Lang?" Wen Lang's breath hitched hearing that voice. He mumbled "I can't believe you actually picked my phone." Unfortunately for him, Gao Tu heard him, and laughed. Wen Lang wanted to record that sound.

Clearing his throat, he said "so, uhm, about that communication thing...do you think we can talk now? Like adults? Instead of running from ourselves? It's okay if its not now. anytime you choose, any place you want."
Gao Tu thought for one long minute before answering "I will be there this Friday." And the call was cut.

Wen Lang looked at his screen till it became blurry to his sunken eyes. It was only Tuesday, Friday was still three days away. Gao Tu didn't even tell what time.

Friday came, and so did Gao Tu at 11.00 AM. This was the first time he was entering this mansion of Wen Lang's so he was a bit hesitant. A maid took him inside to the living room where Shen Wen Lang was waiting, sitting on the sofa, covered in a blanket, and tea in front of him. They nodded at each other in acknowledgement and...just sat quietly after.

Wen Lang finally cleared his throat as if to attract his attention "uhm, thank you for still allowing me to have some time with Lele every week."
"Yeah, well, he smiled for the first time after that hospital visit on his birthday. I couldn't take that from my kid."
"And I am sorry for meeting him the way I did."
"So you have said. Uhm, can I ask?"
"Ask about? My medical history? Why I was in coma? Why I didn't trust Omegas and hated kids?"
"Probably all of the above but let's start with your hatred maybe?"
"My baba seduced my papa to be mated. He was a renowned Admiral yet he used cheap tricks to force my papa to mate with him. He literally induced my father's rut by his heat and got pregnant at that time to baby trap him. And then, then he never even paid attention to me. I mean, one one hand I am thankful that I am an only child so no other child had to face that trauma but on the other hand, there was no one to support me through my hardships. Papa hated me because I was the reason he had to publicly accept my baba. My baba only wanted me so that he could be with my papa without any badmouthing. I was ignored anyways. My beta nannies brought me up and when I was able to, I fled to Jianghu to complete my high school education."
"Oh My! That explains a lot on why you hated Omegas."

"But Gao Tu, I never hated you. I actually loved you. If you would have told me that you were an Omega-"
"-You would have hated me. At that time, you were colour blind against my entire race Wen Lang. Don't even try to convince me otherwise."
"Hmm, probably you are right. But we would never know so why even fight over it. Next question?"
"Your medical history? But you wrote in your will that if it is shared, the person will be sued."
"You are literally asking the patient Gao Tu, I can't sue myself. Anyways, after you went away, when I realised that I have lost my best friend and my baby, I had severe pain in my scent gland that night. I immediately went to the doctor next day and he confirmed that I had Pheromone Mutiny."
"What? And you never told me? I could have helped you."
"You couldn't. Unfortunately, the trauma on my gland was severe that heart had disabled the nerves to my gland, rendering me mate-less. It's like my heart and soul accepted that I have lost my mate and in order to protect me, they ensured that I would never be able to mate anyone. If I tried, it would have been fatal."
"But...but you scented kids whenever they asked for..."
"I couldn't bring myself to say no to them Gao Tu, they are kids. And what would I have even told them? I promised myself that till the time my gland is working, I would never deny them."
"...And now?"
"Now, it is not permanently useless but it is severely damaged so I can't use it. I can't be in pheromones of any other person as well for now since my gland cannot take the weight of scent."

Gao Tu sat stipulated into silence after that confession. Wen Lang had almost lost his gland because he ran away. Wen Lang almost lost it again because Gao Tu was being stupid. Gao Tu should have communicated better, or so Gao Tu was thinking when Wen Lang spoke "you know your thoughts are visible on your face right now? My secretary would have never done that. But anyways, please don't blame yourself Gao Tu. I understand why you did whatever you did. I would never blame you for it. You just wanted to protect our baby. Your baby. As any mother. I don't blame you for any of it Gao Tu."

The verbal confirmation was doing wonders for his overthinking self.

Then he confessed "I...I uhm, I also started therapy. Last year, after Lele's outburst. I wanted professional opinion on how wrong I was. They said I was not wrong just paranoid." Wen Lang wanted to interrupt but Gao Tu was finally opening up so he sat quietly, sipping his tea. "After your letter, I had extensive discussion with them and finally decided to reply back. I am honestly glad that you reached out because I don't think that I am on a stage where I would have reached out first."

Wen Lang finally said, after Gao Tu was done, "its great that you are also in therapy. Does wonders for oneself doesn't it? And thank you for replying to my reach out. Take all the time you want Gao Tu, you don't owe anyone anything. Just healing to yourself." Gao Tu smiled in gratefulness.

Wen Lang's eyes were starting to droop after such exhausting talks so Gao Tu excused himself. Before he could walk away, Wen Lang asked "can we meet regularly? Just us? Maybe we can start our own little friendly session, sharing what we learned about ourselves or how we are doing? If you would like to be my friend again?" Gao Tu smiled "no lies, no deceit this time, promise. See you next week Wen Lang."
And for the first time in months Wen Lang slept with smile while Gao Tu's steps had skips.

When Gao Tu arrived for the second meet, Wen Lang was prepared. He shot "Gao Tu, last time we discussed about me only. My trauma, my past, my experiences. Do you think you could share something this time?" Gao Tu thought for some time, calculating which of his emotions he was ready to put on pedestal.

Then he started "my father, a low class Alpha, was a gambler, a chronic gambler. He had actually won my mother in a gamble too. Probably the only thing he had ever won and that was a helpless Omega. He used to sell her too, to earn money, like he was a pimp and not her mate and husband. He had sworn that if any of the children she popped out would turn out to be an Omega, he would sell them too. So when I presented, my mother gave me my first dose of inhibitors. She told me that to never tell anybody about my real designation and that this was the only way to survive in this Alpha - led world."

Sighing, he continued "then I met you, and I realised she was right. I was safer trying to be a Beta than being an Omega, what with your screaming hatred for them."

Wen Lang looked like he was ready to apologise in the speed of a mile a minute when Gao Tu continued "I mean I understand it now why you said whatever you did honestly, it had a very lasting effect on me. And then A-Qing feel ill. If I had presented as an Omega, my father would have sold me for her medical bills but since I kept the facade of being an Beta, he allowed me to work and have a social life. He still expected some amount of money every month in exchange for my life."

He confessed "that's why when Mr. Hua offered to get him killed when I was planning to run, I accepted without a second thought. And honestly, I have never been happier than that."
Wen Lang sat catapulted into deep silence. He then understood how his words would have only cemented the words planted by Gao Tu's mother in his head. Why Gao Tu chose to run away rather than confront him, till the last moment. That eye opening confession changed everything between them.

After such heart wrenching confessions, the core of why everything around them collapsed, things stabilised. Everything was going well. The mated couple handled all the businesses, the kids visited Wen Lang every Sunday, Wen Lang was attending both physiotherapy and psychotherapy, Gao Tu was doing well in his own therapy, and they were meeting weekly too, albeit at Wen Lang's house only because he was still too weak to go anywhere. His doctor had said that his strength was improving but it was still fragile so he was taking no risks. They also shared why Gao Tu was so scared of coming out as an Omega to him which might have resulted in a cry session at Wen Lang's house, and a few extra therapy session for both of them.

One of their meetings landed on a day before twins birthday so Gao Tu asked if he would come. Wen Lang had to shake his head as he explained that he was not ready to be back in the world. Not just physically but also mentally and emotionally. They had exchanged more than life stories by then. Now they would randomly text each other about something they saw or that happened with him. They would also share memes and reels with each other. It took them months but they were heading somewhere.

That year, Wen Lang hosted Christmas and New Year at his own house. He finally opened the room custom made for Lele as his Christmas gift. When new Year arrived, Wen Lang turned to Gao Tu during countdown and asked "can I shift next to your flat Gao Tu?" Gao Tu looked at him dumbstruck as everyone around him screamed - wished each other.
An hour later he confronted Wen Lang "what was that all about?" Wen Lang shrugged "I just thought that maybe I could help you with childcare if I shift in the empty flat next to you. You can go back to your job and since, I am not going to office, I would be able to look after the kids after school. I though travelling to and fro would be a hassle for them so I could, maybe, help cut the commute."

Gao Tu thought for some time, then answered "it would be nice to have my friend back, and nearby."

And so, first week of the year saw Wen Lang shifting in the flat next to Gao Tu's. The kids were the happiest with that decision and decided that every Saturday they would have a sleepover at his house, followed by the fun Sunday routine. Four adults sat stupefied as they planned amongst themselves. Wen Lang finally interfered "kids, I think you need your parents permission for that. You are not grown up enough to take such decisions you know. You are just five." He taunted like he was infantilising them.

A-Yu fought back "but Daddy Wen you are our parent too. We call you daddy and Lele ge calls you papa. You should be allowed to keep us too."
And yeah, the kids were way too smart for their age, concluded the adults. So the new routine was created. Saturday after school they would come back to his house, play, stay, play again on Sunday and when their parents come for dinner Sunday evening, they would go back with their own respective parents.

What none of them had not realised was that kids had stopped asking Wen Lang to scent them since they visited him in the hospital.
One day, while playing A-Yu accidentally said "I miss your scent Daddy Wen. It was so soothing." And immediately received a tap on his head by his elder twin. Wen Lang looked shocked at the statement and recovering, he asked "is that why none of you have asked me to scent you since I woke up?"

They looked at each other then confessed "its there but it so small Daddy Wen. Papa said that your scent gland is not working properly so we have to respect it. We don't want you in hospital again so we didn't ask. I am sorry I said that." Wen Lang hugged three of them close to his heart and thanked them for understanding that his gland was weak.

The day Lele turned seven was the first time Wen Lang was officially invited to his birthday. That evening, after wrapping up everything, Gao Tu and Wen Lang sat together with wine stems in their hands. Wen Lang laughed "this reminds me of the last time we did this. It was your birthday three years ago, and now Lele has turned seven."

Gao Tu sipped on his wine with a smile on his face, then asked "Wen Lang, would you...would ever like to start a relations hip with me? Like boyfriends?" Wen Lang didn't know what to do. He sat frozen on Gao Tu's sofa. Then stuttered "I...I always wanted to. But then...but then things happened and I couldn't even dream of it. Are you serious right now?"

Gao Tu hummed "I mean, if you want to, I feel like I am ready for it now. And I think we have better communication skills and less lies between us this time." Wen Lang laughed "definitely. Definitely agreeing on that one. So, how do you want to do this?" Gao Tu shied "well, I have never really been in a relationship so...you plan?"

Wen Lang took his time "let's go on a date tomorrow? Test the waters? We can take it slow and see where we stand and how we do." Gao Tu was relived hearing that. He didn't want to jump into physical intimacy just yet.

They went on that sweet date for which Wen Lang picked him from his door with a bouquet of sage and iris, and drove them to a renowned coffee shop. He explained "well, we are still getting to know each other but I remember you used to like coffees. they have some of the most authentic and extravagant coffee, I hope you like something out of it."
They had splendid time telling each other things they had skipped in the past like why they liked whatever they liked and why they like something else now. Or maybe don't, not all things have to change just because of your experiences surrounding it were negative. They laughed, discussed, and decided that they deserve a second date.

For second date, Gao Tu planned a walk to a nearby Tea tasting event. Wen Lang smiled and Gao Tu didn't even have to explain why he chose it. When they were returning, Wen Lang exclaimed "the event was nice. I liked most of the teas but still, you used to brew the best white tea. You knew exactly how I liked it. You know I stopped drinking after you went away because nobody could perfect how to make it."
Gao Tu was shy at that admission.

This went on for so long that twins' seventh birthday arrived. For their birthday, they were adamant on celebrating in Wen Lang's home, not his flat but his mansion. Well, what choice he had. He pushed open the doors to his home to his family. That's when they demanded their gift "we want to live here. With all of you. This house so big, all of us can sleep in different room and we will still have guest rooms."

The adults stood shocked so Hua Yong took reign "why don't you boys play while we discuss hmm?" they went away sullenly.

Wen Lang threw the stone at the still water "I don't mind. I mean one of the reasons I brought this house was that. And you can choose any room you guys want. It is open to all of you, at all times." Hua Yong and Sheng Shao You looked at each other, their scents mingling as they talked in telepathy. Everyone had learnt to keep their scents in check near Wen Lang but once in a while they would let it out involuntarily.

Gao Tu was busy thinking all by himself. Wen Lang neared him "hey, you don't have to agree if you don't want to." Gao Tu shook his head "I was just wondering what would be my place in your home? The mother of your child?" Wen Lang smiled "or you can shift as my boyfriend?" "Really?" "I mean we have been dating for a few months and I have been dying to ask you. What better moment than this?" Gao Tu nodded in yes and it resulted in whole other matter for celebration.

When kids came in for dinner, they informed of the consensus and they jumped joyfully. It was decided that they would shift next weekend since it was a long weekend. By then Wen Lang would have the renovations done as everyone stated their choices and demands that night.
The boys would have three rooms, all internally connected but separate as well such that they had their own amenities and resources. The mates took a room on the far end of the hallway and asked for it to be made soundproof alongside one extra room that would be attached to their room, also soundproof. Wen Lang didn't want to imagine what activities they would be upto in his house and immediately agreed considering they would be on different floors. Gao Tu's choice shocked everybody as he toured every single room and finalised the one on the right of Wen Lang's room. The one that shared balcony with his room. Wen Lang was elated with the choice. He had hoped Gao Tu would choose that one but couldn't bring himself to offer.

In next five day, the entire house was renovated to host 7 people. The walls which echoed of loneliness and sighs of despair were now bouncing off laughter and never ending conversations.