Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Are you sure about this?”

Taehyung looks up at his best friend, annoyed. Exactly how many more times does he need to answer this question?

“Yes, I am. Just like I was yesterday, the day before, last week, month and six months ago. I’m not changing my mind,” he huffs, grabbing the empty plate and mug from the table and tossing them into the dishwasher. Yeontan trots behind him in hope he’ll puppy eye himself into getting more snacks.

“Don’t be mad, you know I’m just worried and care about you, pup.”

He turns around. Yoongi is looking at him with the same concerned eyes as for the past few days and really, Taehyung just wishes that he would be a little bit more supportive. Like Jimin who is already getting ready in the bathroom to go with him.

Or like Hoseok who promised to come in a few months to Korea and help him adjust to the new reality.

But Taehyung knows Yoongi means no harm, on the contrary, he wants to keep any harm away from Taehyung, even if it’s just minor hardships of life, so he just says, “I know but we talked about this many times. I can do it. I want to. There’s nothing I want more.”

Yoongi maintains eye contact for a few moments and finally sighs. He stands up from his seat and walks over to hug Taehyung tightly. “I know. And I will support you in any way I can.”

He buries his nose in Yoongi’s neck, the familiar scent of petrichor emanating nothing but sincerity. “I know.”

“You ready?”

He looks at Jimin who is holding his hand and smiling widely. Then at the doctor in front of him.

“I’m ready.”

“Did it work?”

Those are the first words that Yoongi greets them with when they return. He’s practically buzzing with excitement, standing by the door as if he’s been waiting for them all this time since they left. A stark difference from his attitude this morning. Jimin snorts but nonetheless helps Taehyung off of his coat. Taehyung only rolls his eyes.

“It’s too early to say, calm down.”

But Yoongi doesn’t pay any attention to his words and comes closer, to gently place his hands on his flat stomach.

“I can’t believe there is a pup growing inside of you,” he whispers, wonder clear in his voice.

Taehyung looks down and places his hand next to Yoongi’s. He smiles lovingly. 

“Yeah, me neither.”

***

The following two weeks are both a nightmare and a highlight of Taehyung’s life. While before the procedure Yoongi was anxious and tried to talk him out of the whole thing (“Do you even know how hard it is to be a single parent?”, “There are so many asshole alphas out there, who knows how they are going to treat you just because you’ll be an unmated pregnant omega”, “It’s hard for alphas to accept other alpha’s pups, I don’t want you to be alone just because my rank is full of shit.”), after he seems the most excited out of all four of them.

He demands Taehyung take a pregnancy test every day, even if they try to explain to him that it’s not possible to get an answer so soon. But he still enters the house after the day of work with a new paper bag from the pharmacy. Taehyung indulges him and tries not to coo every time Yoongi visibly sags when there is only one pink line.

There was also an immediate change in their diet, much to Jimin and Taehyung’s (and Yeontan’s) chagrin. It looks like Yoongi went through all possible pregnancy websites and he decided to cut all unhealthy products from their kitchen, effective immediately. Now their fridge and storage are filled with fresh vegetables, eggs, salmon, beans, sweet potatoes, walnuts, dried fruit and home cooked meals.

He makes sure Taehyung rests and is comfortable all the time. He even started to control his sleep schedule, which, in Taehyung’s opinion, is a bit going overboard. Jimin agrees with him though and has started to joke that Yoongi considers himself a pup's dad and if they are going through all the adjustments already, maybe it’s time for them to make their own pup. To the omegas’ horror, Yoongi looked like he actually considered it.

But it is so much better now. And Taehyung is truly thankful that his friend cares so much and he feels less stressed and uneasy because of the uncertainty if the procedure worked. He wants it to work so much.

So even if Taehyung is getting a little bit annoyed, he’s happy that his pup is going to have such an amazing uncle and that they are so loved already. Taehyung might not have an alpha but he and his pup will never be alone.

When the day finally comes and the test shows two lines, Yoongi bursts into tears, the moment a crying Taehyung announces the news. Even Yeontan seems to understand there’s something important going on as he keeps wagging his tail and doesn’t leave Taehyung’s side.

They celebrate with juice (“You can’t have any kind of bubbles Tae!”) and after long pestering - pizza. Of course, Taehyung knows he needs a confirmation from the doctor to be hundred percent sure but it’s hard not to have his hopes up. Especially when he sits on a couch next to Yoongi who is reading about baby strollers specifications and Jimin adds baby clothes to the online basket like a madman.

He’s excited and the next few days are spent waiting for the doctor appointment. On the “D-Day”, as they like to call it, Yoongi wanted to tag along but Taehyung firmly refused, perfectly aware that the alpha would stress like crazy and that in turn would stress him out as well.

So when he sits on the chair, his hand is held once again by a very excited Jimin. It helps, Taehyung feels like a bundle of nerves even though he’s almost sure everything is fine and the procedure was successful. His blood is already at the lab and doctor Song is updating the documents in the meantime. According to him, the blood test results are just formality and nowadays pharmacy pregnancy tests are almost 100 percent accurate.

“Tae, you’re shaking,” Jimin whispers and strokes his hair. He’d release calming pheromones as well but he doesn’t want to make the doctor uncomfortable. “It’s going to be okay, little bean is there for sure, judging by how Yoongi got overly protective of you lately. He might be dumb alpha but his instincts work strangely fine.”

“It’d be more like a sesame seed,” doctor Song provides, and they look at him surprised. “If everything is fine, you’re in the third week so the embryo isn’t the size of a bean yet.”

“Oh Luna, that’s so freaking cute!” Jimin exclaims and caresses Taehyung’s belly lightly. “They’re so small they are not even visible yet out here.”

“And they won’t be for another few weeks. By that time they’re going to be the size of a plum.”

Hearing that Taehyung has an urge to squeal but at this moment there’s knocking on the door and the nurse walks in to hand the doctor the results. He reads the file for a minute and when he finally looks up, he’s met with two sets of eyes, looking at him expectantly.

“Well, Mr Kim. It seems like you’re going to be a dad in a few months.”

After the happy news, two omegas hit the mall and Jimin insists on finding the cutest onesie in the entire baby store and buying it in every size possible. So they walk around, all giddy and giggly, addressing Taehyung’s flat belly all the time as if the pup inside could take part in their conversation.

“Okay, serious question now. Tiger, bunny or, for Luna’s sake this is so freaking cute, penguin?” Jimin holds up three hangers and Taehyung feels like he’s about to turn into a puddle of goo. This is real. He’s pregnant.

He looks at the tiny clothes and most gladly he’d buy all of them. But then he remembers one line from the donor’s file, the one in the “Fun Fact” section, that finally sold the deal for him during a selection process. “My relatives insist I have a bunny smile. I don’t agree, though.”

He smiles and strokes his belly. “Let’s get the bunny one.”

“Oh no, I was already attached to the penguin,” Jimin whines and pouts but puts the tiger and penguin away nonetheless.

“I will buy you every size of the penguin one when you and hyung get pregnant,” Taehyung promises and the omega smiles widely, a little stack of onesies already in his arms.

On their way home they discuss next steps. Taehyung has the whole google sheet with an action plan and checklist for each week of pregnancy. He created it the very same night he decided to go through the procedure, just to feel a bit more confident. Going through pregnancy as a single father is going to be a challenge itself, so having a clear schedule will at least ease his mind a bit and he will not have to constantly remember about everything.

And the priority after getting pregnant is to find a new apartment.

He doesn’t really like the idea. He loves living with Jimin and hyung, they are a pack, it’s natural for them to crave each other’s company. It’s already been hard for them since Hoseok moved away, packmates’ separation is a serious issue with such tight-knitted packs as theirs but it was necessary for Hoseok to thrive and take over the dance world. And now it’s necessary for Taehyung.

One thing is to be a single friend living with their mated friends, another is to be a single father living with them. He’d love help, he really would, but he knows it’s already overdue for him to move out. And his pup is a perfect incentive to take this step.

So they plan with Jimin to start browsing the offers as soon as possible as it’s probably going to take some time before they find something Taehyung finds satisfying and Yoongi hyung as well. As the head alpha of their pack he kinda has the last word in every important decision they make. Not really, at the end of the day he never imposes his own ruling, but none of them can deny their alpha has great judgement skills and they trust him enough to more often than not follow his advice. That’s why he knows the apartment hunting will take way more time, because Yoongi will pay attention to details Taehyung would never think about.

They don’t stop anywhere to grab take out, it doesn’t make sense anyway as hyung probably already prepared a homemade meal, nutritious and safe for pregnant omegas. When Taehyung moves out he will probably keep delivering him food, anxious that Taehyung might get harmed by terrifying take outs or not enough vegetables.

Both laden in bags, they march the short distance from the car to the house, cursing and complaining and this is something Taehyung for sure is going to miss. Coming home from shopping with Jimin, after spending too much money but also having so much fun during it.

He opens the door, covered in sweat and he gets face to face with Yoongi, who stretches his hand out to them, when Jimin also enters the apartment.

“They are this big… it’s… it’s so tiny,” he whispers and only then Taehyung notices a sesame seed in the centre of his palm.

“Oh, hyung…” Taehyung chokes out and leaves the bags on the floor to throw himself in his arms.

“I’m so happy, pup,” Yoongi whispers and the omega only tightens his embrace.

“Me too, alpha, me too.”

If Taehyung thought that choosing a sperm donor was a difficult job, it was a piece of cake compared to apartment hunting. He has no idea how it is possible but every single flat has not even one but multiple flaws. And that with price not being the biggest issue, as Taehyung can comfortably afford maybe not the most luxurious but very decent apartments.

After one week of fruitless search, he starts browsing the builder's finish market. It’s not ideal but he probably has enough time to make it work if he buys something soon. He really wants to just take whatever, as his morning sickness started and it turns out the name is a blatant lie as Taehyung feels sick basically 24/7.

He’s also sick of ginger tea already as that’s what Yoongi found out helps for nausea during pregnancy and now prepares excessive amounts of it. Taehyung would smack his head but everytime he remembers how at the beginning of the fourth week, the alpha entered his bedroom with a pomegranate seed, claiming excitedly that Taehyung’s baby is already such a big pup. So yeah, his hyung is endearing, even if he’s making Taehyung drink disgusting beverages that make him wanna puke and calm down his nausea at the same time.

The next time Yoongi presents him with the pomegranate seed it’s with blueberry fruit next to it.

“They grew this much during one week, Tae,” he coos, sitting at the edge of Taehyung’s bed while the omega rebuilds his nest for the third time this morning.

“I can’t believe something so small can give people constipation, heartburn and that damn morning sickness.” Taehyung rolls his eyes but can’t help the smile blooming on his face. “You’re growing up well, huh?” He caresses his tummy and can't help but wish to finally start showing. Right now there is no physical evidence he’s really pregnant. Of course, there are all the symptoms and his doctor’s word but beside that he doesn’t look pregnant. Jimin insists that he starts to develop boobs, but all he can feel is itchiness. 

Maybe Jimin is onto something after all.

“Guys, I think I found it!” The other omega calls for Taehyung and Yoongi’s attention.

“What did you find?” Yoongi enters the living room, throwing two fruits at his hand into his mouth.

Jimin smiles broadly. “A perfect flat for Taehyungie.”

And the perfect flat it is. It’s gonna need some renovations but it ticks all the boxes - the district, the square footage, the number of rooms and bathrooms, a parking spot in an underground garage, elevator, balcony, a little extra space in the kitchen to turn into pantry, animal friendly building, park at the end of the block, Yoongi’s face of reluctant approval after looking at the offer.

Taehyung calls the number from the ad immediately and schedules the appointment for next week. 

So when the pup reaches the size of a raspberry, the three of them take Yoongi’s car and after half an hour drive, they arrive in front of the row of the identical modern, four-storey buildings.

“Thirty minutes in the middle of the day, not bad. I’m happy you’re not moving too far,” Jimin points out, opening the car door.

“I am not moving yet, I am not even sure I’m going to buy it,” Taehyung snorts and slaps Yoongi’s hand when he tries to help him get out of the car. “And if I do, it will take weeks for all the work it requires.”

“Dear Luna, you start to talk like Yoongi,” Jimin sighs. “A bit of optimism wouldn’t kill the two of you.”

“I can’t afford optimism. It’s bullshit and now I need to be a realist more than ever.”

“You poor little bub, at least you will have one fun uncle,” Jimin baby talks to Taehyung’s belly and after that a tall beta approaches them and lets them inside the building and to the flat.

And the apartment looks even more perfect than on the internet. Yoongi doesn’t say a word but he keeps nodding and Taehyung and Jimin already make plans on how to arrange each room. He probably could search a bit longer but he doesn’t want to. He has a feeling that this is it, this is their home, so he signs all the papers the very same day. 

He also breaks the toilet with the first morning sickness experienced in his new place.

After that Taehyung measures time with new fruit and next steps of the flat renovations.

The pantry wall is added and Yoongi brings cherries home.

The floors and tiles are laid and Taehyung discovers that kumquat’s smell makes him sick and even ginger tea doesn’t help with that.

The bathroom is finished and Jimin makes the whole batch of fig jam. It’s also the time for the next doctor appointment and NIPT blood test. It’s very unlikely for pups from alpha x omega pregnancy to have any chromosomal disorder but Taehyung prefers to do it anyway, even if just for his peace of mind. He’s been wondering if he wants to know the gender yet but the moment the doctor asks, he refuses. All the results turn out perfectly fine and Yoongi cries when Taehyung comes back with a very first ultrasound photo. The three of them with Yeontan facetime Hoseok that evening and the four of them cry together, with happiness because their pack is growing, with sadness because it’s separated and they haven’t scented or been scented by Hoseok in a few months already. He promises to send Taehyung a package with scented blankets, clothes and plushies so he can use them for his nest. Jimin declares that he’s going to steal one.

There is still no progress on the carpenter case but door frames and doors are delivered and installed and thanks to the pup they are drinking lemonade this week. Taehyung also obsessively rebuilds his nest and only stops when one day Jimin borrows him a body pillow that helps Taehyung with sleeping comfortably.

It’s a peach week when the renovation works get back on track and after a harsh conversation with Yoongi, the carpenter promises to prioritise Taehyung’s order.

“What a dick, the only reason I’m not convincing you to change him is that he’s the best in Seoul,” Yoongi murmurs, while checking if the walls in the pup’s room are thoroughly painted and skirting boards are intact.

“I’m just happy he finally showed up. I’d hate to be moving in a watermelon state.” Taehyung shrugs, inspecting the door frames. “Isn’t that some defect, hyung?” Yoongi comes closer to check and assures him the weird shape is just a natural pattern of the wood.

Later this week they facetime Hoseok again so the whole pack can celebrate the end of the first trimester of Taehyung’s pregnancy. 

Only two more to go and they will finally meet their new family member.

Chapter Text

It comes as a surprise to Taehyung. One day it’s not there and the next he wakes up and bang! - a tiny bump proudly stands out.

“Oh my Luna,” he whispers, hovering his hands above the tummy. “Hello, my love.”

He touches it. Caresses. There’s no movement under his palms, the little being inside him can’t hear him yet but he doesn’t care. He keeps stroking the beloved bump all around, tearing up more and more with each passing second. “You really are there, I can see you now. I’ve been waiting for you…”

His little moment is interrupted by a knock on the door. He grants permission to enter and Yoongi slowly pokes his head inside. Now when his pregnancy progresses, it’s necessary to get an invitation to get to his room as it’s considered as a kind of pre-entrance to his nest. Even head alpha must bend to this rule.

Only Yeontan doesn’t care as he runs inside without care and jumps on bed at full speed.

“Good morning, Tae. Are you okay? I could smell a spike in your scent…” Yoongi roams his eyes all over him and the room, checking if there’s any danger or something that could cause such a strong reaction from the omega.

Taehyung shakes his head and waves at the alpha to come in. He’s not able to say a word, so he just pushes the covers further away and pulls his blouse up more, to give Yoongi a clear view. At first he seems to not understand, as he furrows his brows in confusion but then it finally clicks. “Is that…?”

“My little bunny,” the omega sobs out and goes back to caressing his belly. “My sweet, tiny bunny, they’re really there, can you see?”

“I can see them, Tae,” Yoongi walks closer and stops right before the bed. He’s not going to enter the nest but it seems like the sight in front of him makes him a bit weak.

Taehyung understands it. He’s also overwhelmed.

The alpha finally moves his hands above the bump and keeps them like this, like he was afraid to touch to not harm a little baby inside.

“Come on, hyung. You don’t have to be scared,” Taehyung encourages him and finally, the hands rest delicately on the belly, barely touching skin. A wet nose follows warm hands, as Yeontan seems eager to be included in a precious moment. Taehyung pats the dog’s head lightly, triggering the fluffy tail to wag furiously.

“Oh my Luna,” Yoongi whispers and puts his face closer to the omega’s body. “Hello, little one, I’m your uncle Yoongi-” he suddenly stops and looks at Tae. “Can they hear already?”

“No, but don’t stop.”

“We are all waiting for you here, the whole pack, even uncle Hobi in States,” Yoongi continues in a soft tone, getting more and more confident, as he starts roaming his hands around, instead of keeping them in place. Yeontan barks as in confirmation for the alpha’s words. 

He’s waiting too. He got very protective of Taehyung in the last weeks and it’s so endearing. The little dog frowns upon every potential threat, barking at any stranger that gets too close to Taehyung for his liking. 

“Especially your appa, he’s so impatient to meet you.” Yoongi reaches into the kangaroo pocket of his hoodie and pulls out an apple. He places it next to the belly. “You are as long as an apple now, growing so strong, we are so proud of you.”

The alpha keeps blabbering and Taehyung watches him with a small smile. It’s endearing how his grumpy hyung turns into a marshmallow at the mere sight of a baby bump. And it’s only gonna get worse. He can’t imagine how he’s going to behave when an apple Taehyung turns into a watermelon Taehyung.

It’s a nice feeling, to have his head alpha close, taking care of him and a pup. Though he can’t help but feel a bit of longing. He made this decision fully aware that he’ll be alone. Well, not alone per se, as he has his pack with him, helping in any way they can but soon he’s going to move out and the house will smell only like him and his pup. No alpha scent. No alpha around.

He’s been thinking a lot about it, if he wants Yoongi to scent the pup when they’re born but he hasn’t decided yet. He’ll have to do it eventually, to build a sense of belonging to the pack but the scenting after birth is significant. It would have a more unsaid meaning, the pup has an alpha father but the scent covering them would not be his. It stings, even if Taehyung doesn’t regret anything.

He’s coming back to reality when Yoongi suddenly touches his hand.

“Taehyungie, are you okay? Your scent…”

“It’s fine, hyung.” The omega smiles and it’s actually not forced. There are hardships but it’s all worth it. In six months he’ll have his bunny in his arms. Everything is worth it.

“What time does your class start? I’ll drop you off.”

Today Taehyung's prenatal yoga classes start and he’s a bit concerned. The times when he was flexible and could bend in half (which was very useful in very diverse situations), are long gone and forgotten. Now when he drops a spoon, he needs to bend his knees if he wants to reach the floor. That’s how bad it has become. From full splits, to not being able to reach his own toes. And they are not that far away.

But he’s read it’s good to take the classes when you’re pregnant, especially if you’re a man, so he’s willing to make this sacrifice. 

“At noon,” he hums. “There’s no need, I can take a bus. It’s not that far away.”

“It’s February, it’s cold outside and you’re already sniffling.” As if to confirm the alpha’s words, Taehyung sneezes. “Yup, we’re taking a car. I need to work now, I just came because I got worried, but be ready in an hour.”

It gives him enough time to prepare himself an oatmeal with sliced apples, scroll through Twitter, play with Yeontan on a carpet and get ready. All while stroking his tiny baby bump, which he knows he’ll be tired of in a matter of time, as it grows bigger and bigger. The pup’s scheduled to be born in the late summer so it’s going to be tough at the end of this ride.

When he emerges from his room, Yoongi is already putting on shoes, so he hurries, to not make him wait. His alpha is already doing too much.

“How long is it gonna take?”

“Hyung, I can get back by myself, I promise. Look, I have a beanie, scarf and gloves. And the bus stop is just on the other side of the-” he stops abruptly after opening the car door. “Yoongi what is this?”

There was some kind of a flat pillow on the passenger seat, with a metal anchor in the middle at the front. Taehyung is pretty sure it wasn’t there yesterday.

“Sit, sit,” Yoongi looks uncharacteristically enthusiastic as he helps him get in the car. “It’s a seatbelt adapter, look, you just have to stretch the bottom part of the strap aaaaand,” he places it between Taehyung’s legs. “hook it on the anchor. This way the pup is the best protected, I read that this is the best model on the market, I promise. I already bought one for your car too, for when it comes back from the check up and also got you a small portable one. It’s not as good as this one but if you go by car with someone else or by cab it’s good enough.”

“Alpha…” Taehyung is at a loss of words. He knew he needed to buy something like this but he was planning to do it when his belly is much more prominent and the normal way of buckling up becomes too uncomfortable. 

“I know, I know, I should’ve gotten it earlier, I promise I ordered it ages ago but-”

“Alpha,” Taehyung interrupts him and Yoongi finally looks at him. At the sight of tears in his eyes, the man visibly panics. His scent spikes up but before he can react in any other way, Taehyung grabs his hands and squeezes them tightly. “Thank you,” he sobs out. “You are such a great alpha for me, you care about us so much.”

Taehyung continues crying, while stroking his belly. Yoongi coos and hugs the omega, though it’s a bit uncomfortable for the both of them. “Of course I’m taking care of the two of you, you are my pups. How could I not?” He kisses Taehyung’s forehead, making him cry even harder.

“I am sorry,” the omega hiccups. “I am just so grateful. And happy.”

Yoongi doesn’t say another word, just continues swaying them as much as their position allows him to, joining Taehyung’s hands in caressing the baby bump.

When Taehyung finally calms down, they need to rush a bit to get to the class on time but even then Yoongi is more careful than usual when he drives. He parks on a free spot and helps Taehyung to get out of the car even though he claims he is good to do it on his own.

Sometimes alphas’ protectiveness can be a pain in the ass.

It’s only when Yoongi closes the car, that Taehyung realises that he’s going to go with him.

“Hyung…”

“No discussion,” the alpha cuts him right away. “I need to see that you are safe there and they will take care of you.”

Taehyung rolls his eyes fondly but follows his friend nonetheless.

Precious pain in the ass.

Yoongi deems the place to be sufficient and leaves after reluctantly agreeing for Taehyung to come back by bus. It’s clear that he’s not pleased but stops fighting when Taehyung gets a little bit too emotional and is about to cry, thinking that his head alpha is not happy with him. Only then he takes his leave, making Taehyung promise that he’s going to call him if anything happens or he needs anything.

And it also turns out that the class is not as bad as Taehyung expected. The warm up is so effective, that soon enough he’s touching his happily wiggling toes, all bent while sitting on a foam mat. He takes a mental note that he needs to buy his own, so he’ll be able to exercise at home as well.

His baby bump doesn’t stand in the way for now but he can imagine that soon it’ll be too big to allow him such stunts, and later to even see his own two feet. He’s aware that the exercises change accordingly, even now some of the omegas are performing different stretches, still under the careful eye of the teachers, but it doesn’t change the fact that he’s enjoying himself immensely.

“Fucking fuck, fuck this shit, I’m gonna kill Joonie for bringing me here.”

The frustrated whispering comes from his left side so he looks that way and he sees a male omega stretching out to his pointing up to the ceiling toes but to no avail, reaching barely to his shins. He curses some more, tries again and fails with a groan.

“Hey, you alright?” Taehyung decides to ask and at first the omega looks at him with annoyance clear in his eyes. But he must see that Taehyung’s concern is genuine because he sighs and lies down like a starfish. He seems to be around the same stage as Taehyung, now when his belly is a bit more out in the view and it doesn’t show much as well.

“No. My stupid alpha made me come here and I’m so not fit for this.”

The dramatic tone of his voice makes Taehyung giggle.

“Everyone is fit for this. Some just need a bit more time,” he encourages but the omega only looks at him with raised brows. Even irritated, he's still absurdly handsome, such people should be illegal.

“Says a guy bent in half, massaging his own feet.”

Taehyung looks at his hands and snorts. Guilty. His muscles loosened up even more and now he’s able to wrap his hands around the soles of his feet.

“I used to dance in school,” he explains. “I used to do splits and now I almost yayed when I managed to touch my toes after a long warm up.”

“Okay, that actually makes me feel better,” the man smiles and sits up to try again. “Thank you. I’m Seokjin.”

“Taehyung,” the omega smiles, full boxy and eye crinkly, and Seokjin reciprocates, a charming grin somehow making him even more handsome.

After class, they decide to stop at the nearby cafe to talk properly as at some point the exercises got a bit more challenging and they had to stop any conversations to focus on breathing and keeping their balance. It was fun, Taehyung used to quite enjoy physical exercise, even if yoga and pilates were the only things he sometimes practised, aside from dancing of course.

They order at the counter and move to find some free seats, far from screaming teenagers and sneezing individuals.

“I swear to Goddess, Namjoon would get a heart attack if I got sick now,” Seokjin shakes his head, sitting down at the table in the far corner, right next to the window and a wall full of colourful post it notes. Taehyung notices some offers for guitar lessons, love confessions, little doodles, the whole artworks on the 6x6cm piece of paper, greetings from all around the world and random messages like “remember to wash between your toes today”. The whole concept is cute and Taehyung can feel tears coming to his eyes. Wow, his emotions are all over the place today.

He turns his head back to his new colleague.

“I get you. My head alpha would probably chain me to bed for the rest of the winter.”

Seokjin bursts out laughing, making some of the other patrons look their way. His laugh sounds very squeaky and it could be considered annoying but Taehyung finds it only endearing. It makes him laugh as well and they stop giggling only when the waitress brings them their order. They politely thank the beta, bowing slightly and face each other again.

“This coffee is amazing,” Seokjin moans and licks his lips, missing all the foam that got stuck to his cupid bow. “I can almost forget it's decaf.”

“I don’t miss coffee much.” Taehyung shrugs, taking a sip of his hot chocolate. “Never been a fan, only drank it for the kick.”

“Lucky you, I had to give up all of my addictions for the little rascal,” the omega fondly caresses his belly and Taehyung’s hand instinctively migrates to his own. “He wasn’t planned so everything was very abrupt but I didn’t struggle at all. I would do anything for him.”

Taehyung coos and Seokjin glares at him jokingly. “I was getting ready for this pregnancy for quite a long time, so I can't relate.” That makes his companion laugh. “How did your alpha react?”

“He was delighted. We are married and mated for two years and our wolves were both whining for the pup already but we wanted to postpone it a bit more. Namjoon-ah opened a gym a few months ago and we wanted the business to be a bit more stable. But it is what it is.”

“Sometimes when you try to plan it, it feels like there’s never a right time. So maybe it’s not so bad when it just happens,” Taehyung points out and Seokjin nods in agreement.

“That is indeed true. So what about you? You and your alpha were doing each other like bunnies in hope to make a cute little pup?” He smirks when Taehyung chokes on his drink. Well, the comparison to bunnies hits a bit too close to home.

“Not really, I don’t have an alpha.”

Seokjin seems surprised. “But you said he’d chain you to bed?”

“My head alpha,” he corrects. “Head alpha of my pack. I don’t have like an alpha alpha.”

The omega laughs at his awkward explanation. “Okay, so how did you get the bread in your oven without an alpha alpha?”

“Donor insemination,” he answers and the surprise is obvious on Seokjin's face. “Did not see that one coming, huh?”

“Honestly, no. I thought you’d say something about a one night stand or that you’ll be like ‘I don’t have an alpha but a beta’. I’m really surprised, it’s not common to meet an omega that decides to have a kid on their own.” There’s some kind of admiration in Seokjin’s eyes and the relief washes over Taehyung for not being judged but immediately understood. No questions asked about his motives. He wanted a pup, he got a pup, end of the story. He doesn’t need a physical alpha to get what he and his omega desire the most. 

Only a sample of little guys from one.

“Do you mind telling me what the process looks like? I mean, I know technicals but more like how you chose your soldier,” Seokjin wiggles his brows and Taehyung laughs.

“Well, I got the whole catalogue of donors. I decided to get samples from a clinic outside of Seoul, I don’t know, just thought there would be less probability to run at the guy, you know?” the omega nods in understanding, so he continues. “Then I eliminated betas, not that I have anything against the rank but my doctor advised it as my ovum could have a problem with um, accepting one. Apparently ovums can be fussy.” He rolls his eyes and they both giggle.

“That still must’ve been a hard choice.”

“You can’t imagine,” Taehyung groans. “How can you decide if someone will give your pup good genes if you can’t get to know them. They are just codes on a screen for me. I was slowly just cutting down my choice. The most helpful criteria was if they agreed for a pup to contact them if they wished.”

“Really? You’d want that?” Seokjin seems surprised. Taehyung expected that. Jimin and Yoongi were surprised too.

“Not necessarily. But I don’t know what my child is gonna want in the future. The contact details can be obtained only by a pup, not the patients. So anyway, that left like 10% of the donors.”

“What?” Now the omega is even more surprised. “I expected it to be a big reduction but not that much. Alphas are very possessive about their pups, one would think they’d like to meet their own blood.”

“I think that’s actually the reason why they don’t,” Taehyung disagrees. “All donors waive their rights to the babies. They couldn’t fight for them even if some parental instincts would kick in.”

“That makes a lot of sense,” Seokjin makes a face. “But I think it’s nice that you thought about giving your baby a choice.”

“Thank you,” Taehyung smiles and caresses his belly lovingly. “I only want the best for my bunny.”

The omega coos. “That’s such a cute nickname.”

“That’s actually because of the donor.” When he gets a confused look he grins again. “When I finally narrowed the choice down to five candidates by choosing I want them to be from Busan-”

“What? That’s oddly specific,” Seokjin laughs.

“Me and my head alpha are from Daegu and my other packmates are one from Gwangju and one from Busan. Hobi hyung didn’t care, so Jimin jumped on occasion and asked for a new pack member with the same roots.” He rolls eyes fondly. “Anyway, five candidates. Now, all files had a section called ‘Fun Facts’ where there was a message from the alphas and some kind of encouragement to choose them. Most of them were classic, you know. That they are strong alphas, healthy, have good genes, you know how they can get.” Seokjin giggles and Taehyung also cracks a smile. “The same was here. Except one. His ‘Fun fact’ was ‘My relatives insist I have a bunny smile. I don’t agree, though’. After that he listed a few of his hobbies, like painting, singing, dancing and sports in general. At the end there was only ‘If you choose my guys I hope you and the pup will be the happiest in the world’.”

“That’s so adorable.”

“My thoughts exactly. He didn’t try to convince me he’s the best choice. Just to give me an actual glimpse of what he might pass onto his offspring. He amused me by calling his sperm ‘guys’ and I started to use it as well. The ending message shows he’s a good person but what sold me was the bunny smile.” He looks fondly down. “So there we are. Me and my bunny.”

“You are so sweet, I want to eat you,” Seokjin jokes but it’s not mocking. “I admire you, I don’t think I would have the guts to do something like this.”

“I think I wouldn’t either if I didn’t have a pack I know is going to support and help me no matter what,” he admits and at that moment Seokjin’s phone chimes.

“Sorry, it’s Joonie. He just left from work and is going to pick me up in ten.” The tone of his voice is apologising but Taehyung just waves him off.

“Don’t be ridiculous. I hope I didn’t bore you with my story.”

“No way, it was interesting. Now I can’t wait to see that bunny smile too,” the omega’s eyes show nothing but warmth and sincerity. “But I really have to go. Do you need a ride?”

“Nah, it’s fine. I have a bus stop right outside and it’s just a fifteen minute ride basically to my doorstep. Thank you though,” he smiles gratefully and after paying they leave the cafe, Seokjin accompanying him to the bus stop so Taehyung can check a schedule, while the omega waits for his husband.

“Are you joining any other classes?” Taehyung asks right when a dark blue Hyundai stops in front of them.

“Yeah, besides Tuesdays also Thursdays and Sundays. You?” He gestures to Namjoon to wait a minute.

“Same! Okay, so I guess see you in a few days.”

They both smile and hug shortly because the bus is already slowing down to get to the bus bay, so the couple needs to leave. Seokjin waves at him after getting in the car and then they are gone.

It seems like Taehyung got his first pregnancy friend.

Chapter Text

Taehyung very soon finds out that Seokjin is a passionate texter. They exchange numbers at their second yoga class and their chat stays constantly alive ever since. From complaining about pregnancy hunger and dentist visits to sending a string of memes. During third class Taehyung already feels like he is there with a lifelong friend.

At the beginning of his fourteenth week, he’s eating a salad with avocado for lunch, the same avocado Yoongi presented proudly to him and announced that the pup is this big already. It feels surreal. How did they get here from the sesame seed?

Before eating it, he snapped a photo of the avocado and sent it to Seokjin, who immediately fell in love with the fruit comparison and let Taehyung know that he’s totally going to steal this idea and make Namjoon buy him his share of fruits and veggies as well. Taehyung only shakes his head at the answer. One day he needs to introduce the couple to his pack.

Second trimester has a lot of advantages in comparison to the first one - first and foremost, the morning sickness is gone and right with it - the ginger tea. Taehyung is pretty sure his bunny disgusted him with ginger for the rest of his life. They will have to have a serious conversation about making appa’s life hard, when they finally meet.

Another is the end of food aversions. Even though they were not that bad for Taehyung, it’s still nice to no longer have a repulsive reaction for even a sight of broccoli.

His breasts are also not itchy anymore which is a big plus because he was tired of the weird looks he was receiving in the supermarket whenever he had an itch attack during shopping.

What is not fun about the second trimester, is that with one hardships gone - new ones appear.

And so now Taehyung is constantly hungry. Constantly. He is like a panda, eating for almost the entire time he’s awake, going to sleep only to wake up and eat again. He is also dubiously lucky to experience something called round ligament pain. It’s basically sharp, stabbing pain on one or sometimes even both sides of the abdomen.

The first time it happened he almost got a heart attack out of worry and even Jimin, who is the calmest in their household about this pregnancy, got scared and the way he drove Taehyung to the hospital was far from traffic law compliant. Fortunately, the nurses and doctor were quick to recognize what was happening and they immediately calmed two frenzy omegas, who were stinking up the entire emergency room with their distressed pheromones. They explained to them that it is a normal side effect of thickening and stretching of the round ligaments that support the growing uterus.

“‘Normal’ is a bit of an understatement,” Taehyung grumbles while fastening a seat belt, when they’re back in the car. “There is nothing normal about it.”

Taehyung used to think that he’s quite well prepared for this pregnancy. He’s read a lot - books, articles, forums, he’s gathered as much information as he could but is still so much different living it versus reading about it.

Like right now, his baby bump is still fairly small, but his back is already killing him for two days in a row and it doesn't seem like it’s going to change anytime soon. He has a suspicion that it’s going to get even worse. So after a short mental dilemma and a quick research he decides to go to the mall to get his own pregnancy pillow. Jimin’s body pillow is nice but he doesn’t want to hoard it for the next few months.

The omega sighs and gets up to get ready. He was supposed to finally sit down and write something, his book is not going to write itself, but sometimes bunnies come to your life and you have to become flexible and get used to a lot of plan changing.

His car is already back after all needed check ups demanded by Yoongi the moment he heard Taehyung complaining to Jimin about his gearbox acting funny sometimes, when he wanted to put it in reverse gear. And as promised, the head alpha already installed the seat belt adapter, so it is safe for Taehyung and the pup to travel.

The ride to the mall is surprisingly uneventful and when Taehyung parks in the underground parking lot, he is in a good mood, convinced that it is a good day. The problem of his back pain is going to be resolved soon and maybe he’ll finally be able to focus on writing to deliver the next milestone of his book to his publisher.

After getting the pregnancy pillow in his favourite baby shop, it is time for lunch so he decides to call Jimin if he wants to grab something to eat with him. The shopping centre’s become quite crowded, in comparison to when he arrived, and he heads toward the food court, carrying this huge U-shaped pillow with a bunny pattern, to start looking for any vacant table in some interesting restaurant. He doesn’t have any cravings today so he hopes the pup will be content with anything and he will not have to change restaurants multiple times (it did happen before). 

“Taetae? Is everything all right?” Jimin immediately asks when he picks up, making Taehyung roll his eyes. His pack is constantly on their toes for the last couple of weeks, as if they only waited for some dreaded bad news.

“Yes, Chim, relax. I’m in IFC, do you wanna join me for lunch?”

“Sure! What are we eating? What does our little avocado feel like today?”

“They are surprisingly docile today,” Taehyung looks down at his belly with a soft smile. “No weird cravings, at least once they’re giving their appa a break.”

“Great, I feel like sushi but that’s not an option, so you can choose anything, really,” Jimin hums and Taehyung looks around the food court.

“How about some barbe-”

“What the hell?” he hears the unfamiliar voice and then there’s a harsh grip on his arm, turning him around with such strength, his phone is flying out of his hand to the floor. He can hear Jimin’s screams while he’s being faced with a female omega, the fury visible in her eyes.

“Wonyoung, what are you doing? I’m so sorry, mister…” the alpha next to her seems as shocked as Taehyung but the woman doesn’t care.

She takes a deep breath and repeats angrily, “What the hell?”

“Miss, what-”

“Why the fuck do you smell like my boyfriend, bitch?”

Taehyung freezes. He can still hear Jimin’s yells coming out from his phone that’s still lying on the floor, when he looks at the alpha as if trying to find help or at least understand why that aggressive woman thinks he smells like him. He doesn’t know him, it’s the first time he sees him, he’s sure. 

“Babe, calm down and let go of him. I’ve never seen this man in my entire life, I swear,” the alpha’s voice is clearly distressed. He then takes a tentative sniff and goes stiff, as his brows furrow slightly.

“Don’t tell me to calm the fuck down,” the omega, Wonyoung, sneers at him, tightening the grip on Taehyung’s arm and making him whimper quietly.

“Wonyoung, you’re hurting him!”

She looks at Taehyung again and her eyes travel down, to his prominent belly, even more visible today, as he decided to dress in a maternity blouse that highlights the bump. He puts a protective arm around it, letting go of the pillow he’s holding. Damn the pillow, he’s not going to let that crazy woman hurt his pup.

The woman’s gaze turns even more dangerous at the sight and it makes Taehyung fight stronger against her grip.

“Did you get that bitch pregnant?!”

The alpha’s eyes grow comically wide. “What? No! I’ve never seen him in my entire life, I told you! I’ve never cheated on you! And stop calling him names!”

“Don’t lie to me!” She screams and by that time, quite a big crowd gathered around them. Taehyung can feel his face turn red in shame. “I can smell you from him! It’s too engraved in him to be just from scenting!”

That makes Taehyung actually stop his attempts at setting himself free. He looks at the alpha as if it was the first time he actually sees him.

Honestly, Taehyung finds it a bit funny how the universe works. Just last week he was telling Seokjin how he decided on a donor from the clinic in Busan to lower the probability of running into him and here he is now. Face to face with a man who made Taehyung’s biggest dream come true. There’s no bunny smile on his face but it disappoints him only a little bit because, not really suitable for the circumstances, he realises that his pup is going to be one gorgeous baby. Taehyung knows he’s quite attractive, he’s not vain, he’s just aware of his advantages, but the man in front of him is devastatingly handsome.

“It’s you…” he whispers in surprise and the alpha’s eyes (very big, very expressive eyes, Taehyung notices), grow even bigger.

“‘It’s me?’ Who is ‘me’? What is happening?” he panics and then some alpha from the crowd approaches them.

“Hey, guys, is there a problem here?” He looks between the three of them, his gaze lingering at the hand still wrapped around Taehyung’s arm. “Miss, could you let go of this man? He’s stressed and it’s not good for pregnant omegas.”

“I don’t give a fuck if it’s good for him,” she seethes at the alpha but in answer he releases a bit of threatening pheromones. Not enough to suffocate them but to let her know he’s not going to hesitate to protect Taehyung if needed.

“Wonyoung, just let him go, please,” the alpha donor finally pulls the omega’s hand off of Taehyung’s arm and Taehyung quickly massages the sore spot.

“Are you okay? Would you like me to stay here or to escort you somewhere?”

Taehyung looks at the kind alpha who was the only one from the crowd who came to help him and shakes his head. “No, t-thank you. I-I think I’m going to be fine but thank you so much.” He tries to convey through his eyes how grateful he is.

“Me and my wife are staying around the food court, I will keep an eye on you in case anything happens. Don’t hesitate to scream for help.” He nods at Taehyung and sends one last threatening look at the pair, before he goes away to the pregnant woman standing a few steps away from them.

While the man gets the crowd to disperse, Taehyung crouches down to pick up his phone and the pillow. Thankfully the phone didn’t break but he can already see multiple notifications of unpicked calls and unread messages from Jimin and Yoongi and even Hoseok. He sighs but before he can answer any of them, Wonyoung takes a step in his direction.

“You are lucky this fucking nosy alpha saved you, you bitch.” She glares at Taehyung and he puts the pillow in front of himself, as a barrier between his belly and the omega.

“Wonyoung, that’s enough. He, on a contrary to me, seems to understand what is happening, let him explain to us every-”

“I don’t want to hear him out, you fucking cheater and liar! Do you think I am fucking dumb?! He’s pregnant with you. Go to hell!”

After that she storms away, not without hitting her shoulder against Taehyung’s painfully, while passing him. The alpha looks torn between running after his omega or staying with Taehyung to get some explanation and the moment he seems to decide to go after Wonyoung, Taehyung whimpers out in pain, bending in half as one of those cursed pains hits him.

Of course it attacks him now, as if this day wasn’t bad enough.

“Oh my good, are you okay? What’s wrong?” The alpha rushes to him, hands hovering above Taehyung’s shoulders, not sure if he can touch him and his scent spikes in distress.

“It’s… ugh…” Taehyung tries to speak but it's really hard with the stabbing pain attacking the both sides of his abdomen. “I need to sit down.”

The moment the words leave his mouth, the alpha doesn’t hesitate anymore to take the pillow from him and gently lead him to sit at the nearby bench. Taehyung sends him what he hopes is a grateful look and focuses on his breathing. It also helps that the alpha starts releasing relaxing pheromones and Taehyung appreciates it even more, because he can see and feel how stressed and confused he is. 

After a few minutes the pain subsides and he can finally breathe properly. 

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. Are you okay now?” The man looks very concerned. It’s very sweet of him, Taehyung is the reason he got in a huge fight with his omega, he doesn’t even know why and he still cares about this stranger’s wellbeing.

“Yes, it happens. The round ligaments, it’s the lower abdomen part, sometimes act out and they give me hell,” Taehyung laughs awkwardly. “I’m sorry for… this.” He waves his hand, not really knowing what to call what just occurred a few minutes ago.

“Well, I would say it’s okay but I’m really confused and would appreciate an explanation.” The alpha’s tone is gentle and Taehyung doesn’t detect any kind of hostility, which makes him feel a bit better. Well, the alpha knows they haven’t slept together and it seems he hasn’t remembered yet that he did something that allowed Taehyung to be pregnant with him without the actual intercourse.

“Of course, of course. First of all, I’m Taehyung.” He bows slightly and that makes the alpha smile and Taehyung looks at him in awe. “Oh my Luna, you really have a bunny smile!”

The alpha’s smile drops and his eyes widen again. He’s really adorable, Taehyung wouldn’t think so if he’d only seen his expressionless handsome face.

“We’ve never met before but I kinda know you. I got pregnant through the donor insemination procedure,” he explains and he sees the exact moment the realisation hits the alpha. “I chose your guys,” he jokes and the man actually lets out an incredulous laugh.

“Oh my Luna, it makes so much sense now. Wow,” he chuckles and Taehyung is pleased with the sound. It’s nice, if his pup inherits it from his alpha father, he’s not going to complain. “I never expected for someone to actually choose me, even less that I would meet them and to be honest, I totally forgot I even donated. It was such a long time ago.” He shakes his head in disbelief.

“Do you mind telling me your name?” Taehyung asks cautiously. “You don’t have to, but right now for me you are JJG-130709.”

The alpha laughs again, showing his bunny smile and crinkled eyes. “It’s Jeongguk. Jeon Jeongguk.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Jeongguk-ssi.” The omega smiles. “Thank you, for doing it, the donation I mean. You made my dreams come true and now I’m waiting for my little bunny to come to me.”

He puts his hand on the baby bump and caresses it lovingly. Jeongguk looks at the gesture and the wonder fills his eyes. He doesn’t speak for a few moments and Taehyung grows a bit anxious, not knowing what to expect next.

“It’s a bit weird, I have to admit. I can smell they’re mine-” he stops and waves his hands in panic. “I mean, not mine! I don’t mean to make any claim on your pup, I know I can’t, I signed the papers and everything!”

“Okay, okay, calm down, Jeongguk-ssi. I understood,” Taehyung interrupts him before the poor man gets a heart attack. He seems to be a decent guy and the omega hates to stress him even more.

“Okay,” he breathes out in relief. “Back to what I was saying, I can smell they’re… from my guys,” both of them chuckle. “But me and my alpha don’t know you. It feels surreal.”

“Tell me about it! I came here to buy this pregnancy pillow to help with my back pain and was going to have a peaceful lunch and suddenly I’m being assaulted by a pissed off omega and I’m meeting my sperm donor.”

He means it as a joke but Jeongguk’s scent turns sour instantly. “I am deeply sorry for Wonyoung’s behaviour.”

“Hey, it’s okay and I totally understand where she was coming from-”

“No. It is not okay, Taehyung-ssi. No matter what, she had no right to treat you this way and I am going to talk with her about it,” Jeongguk cuts in firmly. “She should have listened to your explanation, not, as you said, assaulted you. It’s unacceptable.”

“She was acting out of instinct, us omegas are very possessive, sometimes even more than you alphas.”

“Still, we are not animals, she-” he’s again interrupted, this time by the angry alpha pheromones surrounding them.

“Oh no,” Taehyung sighs, waiting for another storm to hit.

The next moment he’s being pulled behind his head alpha and into Jimin’s tight embrace. Yoongi stands tall and threatening, sending glares in Jeongguk’s direction.

“Who are you?”

“Hyung, calm down, everything is fine,” the omega tries but Yoongi doesn’t turn around to look at him, keeping his eye on the unfamiliar alpha.

“Jimin heard someone attacking you. What happened? What do you want from Taehyung?” he growls and Jeongguk stands up, holding his hands up. He’s much taller than Yoongi but his posture gives clear signals he’s not trying to put up a fight.

“I’m Jeongguk. Me and my partner met Taehyung-ssi and there was a misunderstanding-”

“So you decided to attack a pregnant omega?” Jeongguk’s words seem to make Yoongi even angrier so Taehyung frees himself from Jimin’s hug to stand between two alphas and prevent another scene.

“He didn’t attack me. His omega smelled him from me and she freaked out a bit,” he explains calmly and that makes his friend finally look at him.

“What do you mean she smelled him from you?” His brows furrow and he takes a tentative sniff, the confusion deepening on his features.

“Jeongguk-ssi is JJG-130709, my chosen sperm donor.”

The shock is evident on his packmates’ faces. He gets it, he was equally shocked and this whole situation is like out of some drama he and Jimin love so much.

“No way,” Jimin whispers and suddenly his eyes light up. “Could you smile, please?”

Jeongguk looks taken aback but grants the request and the omega squeals happily. “Oh my Luna! You really look like a bunny!”

“I know, right?! I told him so, too!” Taehyung beams but Yoongi seems to not share their enthusiasm.

“The pup is not yours. You have no claims over them, don’t even think about it,” he threatens but Jeongguk is already shaking his head.

“Don’t worry, I was only talking with your omega to understand what happened.”

“Taehyungie’s not his omega,” Jimin chimes in. “I am! And Taehyungie is totally single and available.”

“Jimin!” Taehyung exclaims, agitated. “Are you mad?”

“I’m just saying…”

“Stop talking, Jimin-ah,” Yoongi snaps and turns back to the alpha. “You got your explanation. You can leave Taehyung alone now.”

Jeongguk nods in understanding but Taehyung doesn’t have any of it. “Hyung, you are being rude. Jeongguk-ssi took care of me and you have no right to treat him like this. If he wants to talk more, I will gladly answer any questions he has.”

He can see Jimin is dying to say something but he sends him a glare and the omega stays silent.

“No, no, Taehyung-ssi, it’s okay. I understand. I am glad you are feeling better now but I guess I really should go,” Jeongguk assures him and at the same time he realises he’s still holding Taehyung’s pillow so he hands it over to him. “Wonyoung is still angry and I need to explain everything to her,” he continues and looks down at the baby bump. “It was nice to meet you and as weird as it is, I am happy I was able to help you. I hope you guys will be very happy in the future and that the pregnancy goes well and both you and the little one are always healthy. Hopefully no more of those round ligament pains for you from now on,” he jokes and bows deeply to the three of them. “Again, I’m truly sorry for the whole situation and I will talk to my partner about her behaviour.”

“You better,” Yoongi grumbles but he seems satisfied with Jeongguk’s attitude to this whole ordeal.

“Of course,” the alpha bows again and walks away, leaving the trio alone.

They stay like this, looking after him in silence until Jimin decides to disturb the sort of peaceful moment.

“Well, leaving aside the nastiness of this encounter, at least we know that Taehyung is going to have one gorgeous baby.”

“Jimin!”

“Wow, I have to admit, I’m certainly not bored since I met you.”

Two days after the mall incident Taehyung is sitting with Seokjin in their cafe, pleasantly stretched and tired from yoga class. Taehyung’s just filled his friend in and as expected, the omega is also shocked.

“Tell me about it,” the omega chuckles and takes another bite of his Nutella cheesecake. “I still can’t believe it really happened.”

“Exactly! You told me you were choosing alphas from clinics outside Seoul to prevent exactly such situations. What are the odds?”

“Before, I’d say pretty low but now I don’t believe in anything anymore.”

After that they discuss some more about their yoga classes and about Taehyung’s moving out from his pack house to the new apartment as it’s going to be ready any day now. He’s quite excited about that, he can’t wait to turn the whole flat into one big nest, the package from Hoseok is going to arrive soon and he’s already giddy to include his friend’s scent.

“I’m a bit scared though, I’ve never lived on my own,” he admits to Seokjin. Taehyung’s never voiced out loud his concerns to his packmates, because he knew it was granted that Yoongi would fight the move if he detected any sign of hesitation on Taehyung’s side.

“You’re going to be fine,” the omega assures him. “It’s probably going to be weird at first, especially the silence. But you’re gonna have your dog with you so he’ll be a great help for sure.”

“I guess you’re right. I will have to just get used to it.”

“Exactly. And living alone will allow you to freely invite some alphas to your flat,” he sends Taehyung a cheeky smile. “Or one particular alpha.”

“Hyung!” Taehyung whines and the older cackles. “Stop it. Firstly, he has an omega but that’s not the point because second, I am not interested. I want my pup and I am not interested in dating. Not him nor anyone else.”

“We’ll see about that when pregnancy horniness catches up with you.”

“Hyung, stop!” Taehyung laughs out loud at that. “You are being crude!”

“I am not! I know they put bunny in you through a syringe but you are not a virgin, right?”

“Of course, I’m not, but I’d rather not discuss that right now.”

“Okay, okay,” Seokjin calms down. “But really, how was he?”

“Who?”

“Don’t play dumb!”

“Well, he was really nice, especially considering the circumstances,” Taehyung admits. “He took care of me when my pains started, instead of following his omega. I’m sure she gave him hell for that.”

“Poor boy.”

“And he was very respectful all the time. I told you, he apologised on Wonyoung’s behalf and promised to scold her. And he really was cool about the whole pregnancy thing, he wished us happiness and claimed he was happy that he could help me fulfil my dream.”

“That’s very sweet of him,” Seokjin agreed. “Is he hot?”

“Hyung!”

“What?! It's a reasonable question. Your bunny might look like him. Oh my Luna, does he really look like a bunny?” He looks as excited as Jimin did in the mall.

“Yes, he does,” Taehyung chuckles. “Bunny teeth, wide smile and crinkled eyes. It was adorable and I really hope my pup is going to inherit that from him. He was handsome too, so I’m happy with my choice. He is good looking and seems to be a decent person, what more could I ask for, really?”

“I’m really glad, Tae.” The other omega smiles softly. “You are brave to reach for your dreams and you deserve the cutest pup in the world.”

“They’re going to be the cutest for me anyway.” Taehyung strokes his bump lovingly. It’s growing bigger and bigger and it excites him every day.

“I’m sure of that. Anyway, now that we know the bunny alpha lives in Seoul you might bump into him again. Who knows how that’s going to develop.” Seokjin wiggles his eyebrows suggestively.

“There’s nothing to develop, I’ve told you already. Besides, it was a one time thing. I’m not going to see him ever again, it’s a big city.”

“You were convinced about that before too, so we’ll see about that,” Seokjin finally says, still looking very convinced that he is right.

Chapter Text

Seokjin was right.

Taehyung moves to his new apartment at the beginning of the fifteenth week of his pregnancy. Seokjin and Namjoon offered to help Taehyung and his packmates, so the two alphas are in charge of all the heavy lifting, Jimin helping with smaller things and Taehyung with Seokjin just supervising their work, occasionally carrying some light items like pillows or smaller cardboards. It takes them the whole Saturday to transport Taehyung’s belongings from the pack house to his new apartment and assemble the new furniture and then the whole Sunday after the pregnant omegas’ yoga class to unpack and organise everything around the flat.

After that he spends another two nights with Yoongi and Jimin. His new place is too cold for him to stay there, so they decide it’s better to wait a bit more for it to warm up after turning on the heating for the first time.

The first night is a weird experience. He has a problem with building a satisfying nest, so it doesn’t bring him any comfort, only increasing his distress. The apartment is too quiet, too scentless and too lonely. Every creak of the floors, every sudden buzzing noise coming from the fridge filled with groceries by Yoongi, every drop of water falling from the tap after Taehyung’s evening bath - everything is making the omega jump in fear. It is weird, there were a lot of noises during the night in their pack house as well but he was used to it, those were familiar noises he lived with for years.

Yeontan is the greatest comfort, just like Seokjin predicted, and thanks to the cute fluff ball snuggled between his belly and the pillow, he finally falls asleep around 3 a.m.

In the morning he wakes up annoyed and tired but no matter how much he tries, he can’t go back to sleep. He keeps scratching himself all around his right side and it makes him more and more exasperated. Soon it’s time to give up because Yeontan is in need of his morning walkies, so they leave the house and go to the park at the end of their block. It’s not big by any means but enough for walking a dog or for a neighbourhood to spend Saturday family afternoons there and right now there’s no living soul there, so Taehyung immediately deems the park his new favourite place. In his old neighbourhood it was a little square with a fountain where pups liked to play tag and he loved to watch them laughing and squealing in happiness.

He’s sure he’ll be able to see similar scenes here as well. And in a few years his pup will be a part of them.

It is a cold morning, so Yeontan makes his business at lightning speed and very soon thugs Taehyung in the direction of their new home. The omega is not going to complain, as it’s very hard for him to scratch himself through the thick, puff jacket.

“What should we do today, Tannie?” he asks the dog when he takes off his shoes but he’s answered only with a receding fluffy butt.

The writer shakes his head and at that moment his phone chimes. He takes it out and there’s a message on their pack chat. He clicks in it and the photo of smiling Yoongi and Jimin pops out holding a pear between them, the message under it saying “our favourite Kim is already the size of a pear!”. Of course, Hobi’s answer is already there as well, a long string of crying emojis and colourful hearts.

Taehyung smiles, endeared, and caresses his belly softly. “I see you’re a little pear now, my sweet bunny. You’re growing so fast, I can’t wait to meet you.”

He occupies himself then with building a real nest in his bed, to assure himself a night of proper sleep, and then he builds a smaller one, but just as necessary and comforting, in the living room on his brand new couch. By the time he’s finished, he’s really hungry and prepares himself brunch, as he skipped breakfast, too engrossed in nesting. Yoongi would kill him if he knew, but thankfully for the omega, his head alpha is nowhere around to scold him.

He starts to see perks of living on his own.

After eating he sits down in his office to write and it goes well for quite some time, until the itchiness of the right side of his ribcage becomes unbearable. A quick research tells him it's a perfectly normal pregnancy symptom, as the skin around his belly is stretching a lot, but it doesn’t cheer him up much. He decides to send a quick text to doctor Song and when he gets a confirmation there is nothing to be worried about and an advice to apply an ice pack or a cold compress to the itchy area, he decides to make a trip to the supermarket.

It’s not far away but it’s cold outside, he doesn’t know the area well yet and he might end up buying more stuff, so he decides to go by car. It was a smart decision, he realises, the moment he enters the fruit section and ends up filling his cart with two kilos of pears. A sudden craving he blames Yoongi and Jimin for. 

He’s walking around the aisles aimlessly, reaching for things from time to time only to put them back on the shelf and continue walking. He’s going to grab ice packs right before leaving so he procrastinates a bit first, trying to delay coming back to writing.

The omega’s trying to reach a pack of gummies at the top of the rack in the sweets section when a hand reaches for it and passes to him.

“There you go.”

“Thank y-” he cuts abruptly when he sees a person who helped him. “Jeongguk-ssi!”

“Taehyung?” The alpha seems equally surprised. “I mean, Taehyung-ssi!”

“It’s okay, I think we can drop honorifics if that’s okay with you,” Taehyung chuckles and looks down at the gummies in his hands. “Thank you, I’ve been craving them for a few weeks now but Yoongi hyung forbade me from eating them and unfortunately somehow they are always at the top shelves so I could never reach them on my own.”

The next moment the gummies are taken away from him and he looks surprised into Jeongguk’s terrified eyes. “Are they dangerous for you and pup? I can’t let you eat them then!” and he puts the pack back out of Taehyung’s reach.

“Hey!” Taehyung exclaims and tries to jump but is stopped by a firm hand on his shoulder. “I can eat them! My head alpha is just overprotective and if something is considered unhealthy in any way, he refuses to let me eat it. Well, joke’s on him because I’m very sneaky and I’ve been eating Snickers this whole time,” he announces proudly and Jeongguk laughs out loud, visibly relieved. “Could you give it to me again, please?”

“Yes, sure. Sorry, I got scared for a second that I was about to poison you.”

“Don’t worry, I would never do anything to endanger my bunny,” Taehyung assures him and happily throws the pack in the cart. After a second of consideration he looks at the alpha pleadingly. “Could you give me another pack? Or two? No, wait, three. I need a stock of them, now I feel like I can’t live without them.”

The alpha laughs again but obediently fulfils his request. “You called them ‘bunny’ in the mall too, why?”

“Well, you,” when Jeongguk looks at him surprised he continues, “In the message to me, you’ve written ‘ My relatives insist I have a bunny smile. I don’t agree, though’. That actually sold me and I’ve been imagining them with a bunny smile ever since. And just for the record, I agree with your relatives, you totally look like a bunny when you smile." The smile that blooms on the alpha’s face only confirms his statement.

“It’s… weirdly cute. I hope they get that smile then, if that’s what you want.”

“I really do, thank you.” Taehyung beams at him and there’s a weird feeling in his belly.

He ignores it at first but then the subtle flutters increase in intensity and he furrows his brows, looking down at the bump.

“Are you okay?” Jeongguk’s voice sounds concerned and Taehyung doesn’t respond at first but then the realisation hits him when the next feeling he can only describe as ‘quickening’.

“Oh my Luna! Hello, my love!” he exclaims, embracing his belly and there’s that feeling again. “Yes, I can feel you, bunny, did you sleep well?”

“Taehyung? What is happening?” The alpha urges him, though he is no longer scared.

“They’re moving! It’s the first time I can feel them!” The writer looks up, smiling broadly and he can feel his eyes brim with tears.

“Oh my, that’s amazing!” Jeongguk seems equally excited as him and he waves his arms as if he couldn’t contain his emotions in his body.

“It is! What got you so excited?” Taehyung speaks again to his belly. “Was it those gummies? No worries, appa will get you a lot of them,” he assures and to his amazement, the fluttering repeats.

With the corner of his eyes he can see Jeongguk reaching for two more packs of sweets. The little gesture makes the omega so touched, the tears spill out of his eyes.

“Taehyung, what’s wrong? Does something hurt? Do you need to go to the hospital? I can drive you there.” The alpha reacts immediately and that makes Taehyung cry even more.

“No,” he hiccups. “I am just overwhelmed a bit. It’s the first time I can feel them and you are so nice to me and you’re reaching for gummies for us and I am just so happy right now.”

He sobs loudly and the next second calming alpha pheromones engulf him. He lifts his surprised gaze at Jeongguk, who is already looking at him with a soft smile on his face.

“I am really happy for you, Taehyung. I’m glad I could help a bit with that. I’ve never thought something I did could make anyone this happy and it might be inappropriate to say, as we don’t know each other, but I can see you love your little bunny so much already. They are lucky to have you as their appa.”

The alpha’s words make Taehyung cry a bit harder and it takes him a few minutes to calm down. When the tears stop flowing and he can finally speak properly, Taehyung breathes out and smiles at the alpha.

“Thank you. I would let you feel them moving but it won’t be possible for a few more weeks. It’s only for me for now.” He caresses the belly and Jeongguk only shakes his head. He looks down at his watch. 

“No worries. I’m sorry, I have to go now.” He looks apologetic. “Here, your gummies. Do you want some more while I’m still here?”

Taehyung laughs and denies, “No, thank you. I think six is enough.”

“Okay then. Again, I’m really happy for you. Take care, you and your little bunny. See you around.”

Jeongguk waves at him slightly before turning around and leaving Taehyung alone between the racks filled with snacks in the sweets section. Well, he’s not exactly alone. He’s with his bunny, who keeps swimming around their temporary home.

“I don’t know about you, my love, but I did not expect this day to turn out like this.”

As if in agreement with his words, they bring him another bubbly feeling.

A few days later Taehyung picks Jimin up from their pack house and they go together for another prenatal visit. It is another milestone as it’s finally time to find out if his bunny is going to be a boy or a girl.

Taehyung doesn’t have a preference, not really. Not for the gender, nor the rank. He only wants them healthy and happy, everything else doesn’t matter. So he’s not stressed at all during the trip.

Though, it can’t be said about Jimin in the passenger seat.

“Taehyungie, how are you this calm?” he asks worriedly. “It’s a big day!”

“Not really, why should I be stressed? It’s just a gender. And it really doesn’t matter to me.”

“I’m sure it does!”

“But it doesn’t, that’s the thing! There’s no difference.”

“But it will give our baby pear some more identity. We will get more information about them, they will be more real.”

“They are very much real to me already. They are giving me eczema and frequent bathroom trips,” Taehyung jokes, parking in front of the clinic.

“You will be able to order more specific stuff, like clothes or shoes.”

“Clothes do not have gender, Jimin.” A pointed look sent in the other omega’s direction makes him even more agitated.

“Of course they don’t, but don’t pull that crap at me that if doctor Song announces in the next half an hour that you’re having a boy, you’ll get home and order a bunch of dresses,” Jimin insists, walking around a car and they go through a parking lot.

“Well, I won’t do that,” Taehyung admits.

“Exactly! I know that if they want to wear something later you will not look at their gender or rank but initially it will influence your choices. No matter if you want it or not, we are all sadly, as a society, programmed like this.”

“Yes, of course it will, I never said it won’t. But it still doesn’t matter to me if I’ll be buying a pretty dress for their first formal event or a cute little costume with a bow-tie. I will be fine with both ways.”

“I get it but I don’t get it.”

“What would you like them to be then?”

“I don’t know!”

Taehyung laughs and shakes his head. He kinda understands the hype about finding out, especially if it’s another kid. But for him? They are all he’s been yearning for already. It can’t get better than this.

“Mr Kim Taehyung!”

“What are you doing, Jimin?”

They are in a car, Jimin focused on his phone, and Taehyung is going to drop his packmate at their pack house and rush to the cafe to meet Seokjin after his yoga class. The other pregnant omega was whining that Taehyung left him alone in misery but he’ll forgive him only because it’s for the bunny and they are gonna finally find out if they are a boy or a girl. Jin and Namjoon found out they are expecting a boy at the beginning of the week so now only Taehyung was hiding a little surprise in his belly.

Well, not anymore.

“I am finalising an order.”

“An order?”

“Listen. I had two baskets on two separate accounts. Now there are like two hundred dresses on our way and Hobi said he was waiting for the info with two literal baskets in a shop.”

“Isn't it like the middle of the night in LA, right now?” Taehyung looks at Jimin, concerned. Hoseok is overworking himself as it is, he needs his fair share of sleep to endure all those exhausting hours of the life of a dancer. Besides, are there even shops open 24/7 in LA?

“It is. But he’s in Milano now. You cried the whole flight to San Francisco he took last time so he decided to not tell you and just let you know after the whole trip.”

At least Jimin has the decency to look apologetic. That’s the only real shortcoming of the pregnancy, Taehyung thinks. His pack is shielding him from every minor “worrying” news because his emotions are all over the place, all the time. In his defence, the San Francisco incident was in his first trimester when it was way harder to control. On the other hand, he’s pretty sure he’d react the same way now. After all, LA-Milano is an overseas journey, so way worse than a one and a half hour plane jump along the coast.

He’s going to worry twice as much on his way back, then. No biggie. He says so to Jimin who only shakes his head. “He won’t tell you.”

They keep bickering for the rest of the way and when they finally arrive, as expected, there’s Yoongi standing in front of the house. He quickly rushes to the car, completely ignoring Jimin and pulling Taehyung in a tight embrace.

“Hi, hyung,” the omega greets him and Jimin only rolls his eyes and looks at them fondly.

“Hi, pups,” the alpha murmurs in his neck and scents him lightly.

It makes Taehyung immediately relax at the first whiff of the petrichor. When he lived in a pack house, he was naturally smelling like the rest of his packmates, Yoongi scented him only when it was necessary for safety reasons or if they were apart for a long time. Now, living on his own, he was separated from that comforting smell of belonging but clearly he wasn’t the only one who suffered because of this.

They scented each other with Jimin the moment he got in the car as well but Yoongi as a pack alpha had a different bond with each one of them and his protective instincts worked much stronger. Also amplified now because of Taehyung’s delicate state, as an unmated omega at that. The writer knows that Yoongi already suffers because he hasn’t been able to scent Hobi for months now, so he lets his hyung do as he pleases. 

When the alpha seems satisfied that Taehyung is going to smell like a pack for a long time he steps back and finally greets Jimin as well, scenting him in a much more discrete and intimate way. He doesn’t have to do it, the omega already smells like him constantly and because they are mated, they would have to spend at least a couple of weeks, maybe even months apart, for the scent of their mate to fade away (it would still stay, faint but present). But it’s an affectionate gesture and Taehyung knows well how much Jimin loves being scented.

“How was the visit?” the alpha asks and Jimin quickly takes out the ultrasound photo from his pocket.

“Look at her! She’s so big already,” the omega coos and Yoongi’s head snaps up to Taehyung. The look in his eyes changed quickly from fond, when he was looking at the photo, to astonished.

“She?”

“What, hyung? Excited to finally be oppa?” Taehyung winks at him, caressing the baby bump.

“He’s too old to be oppa,” Jimin teases and gets a stinky eye from his mate. “I’m joking, love. We are oppas to our little bunny girl.”

Yoongi walks to Taehyung again and his pheromones spike in happiness when he gently touches his belly. “Hello, princess.”

The already familiar fluttering feeling makes an appearance. “I think she likes it when you’re happy.”

“What? Why?” Yoongi’s eyes grow comically wide and even Jimin seems curious.

“She moved after your scent burst with happiness. It’s either that or a total coincidence but I believe she loves her uncle Yoongi already.”

“Aw, love, you are uncle Yoongi,” Jimin coos, and joins his mate’s hands on Taehyung’s bump.

“Your uncle Yoongi loves you too, pup,” Yoongi whispers with tears in his eyes. 

And Taehyung knows that she is not able to hear yet but the bubbling movement makes him certain that she knows how loved she already is.

He manages to arrive at the cafe before Seokjin grows impatient. He enters the building when his friend hangs his coat on the back of the chair.

“Hi! I’m here, I’m here,” he says when he sees the omega is about to pull out his phone.

“Finally! So?” Seokjin looks at him expectantly and Taehyung scoffs.

“Sure, no ‘hello’, no ‘how are you’-”

“Yeah, yeah, stop whining and better tell me what you are growing in your cute tummy.” The omega waves him off and accepts the menu from the waitress with a little bow.

“It’s not cute,” Taehyung mumbles. He’s not even sure when his friend managed to see his belly to voice his opinion about it. His thoughts must be pretty obviously reflected on his face because Seokjin rolls his eyes.

“I can see it when you’re changing after classes, you know? But even in clothes it’s beautifully round, like you were hiding a ball under your sweaters. Mine is monstrous already, I was sure the doctor is gonna tell me during the last visit that we’re expecting a litter.”

Taehyung snorts and they place their order when the waitress is back. After they are left alone again, he looks at his friend.

“It’s a baby girl,” he says and hugs his belly lovingly. 

Seokjin coos immediately and on instinct, hugs his own bump as well. “Your bunny and my rascal are going to get married.”

“Hyung!” Taehyung bursts out laughing but it doesn’t stop his friend from making plans anyway.

They daydream about their future play dates and Seokjin even goes as far as imagining taking prom photos of their pups which makes Taehyung’s decaf come out of his nose from laughter.

They’ve decided to order another drink and are currently waiting when the omega starts to feel unsettled. His nose keeps itching and bunny doesn’t want to calm down, swimming around like crazy which isn’t painful in any way but after some time gets quite uncomfortable. He doesn’t understand what made his baby restless and he tries to calm her down with slow, circular movements of his hands around the belly, while Seokjin tells him about the class he missed, but nothing seems to work.

He’s about to confirm with the waitress if for sure he was served decaffeinated coffee, not a regular one, when a loud yelp and the sound of breaking glass makes the two omegas turn in the direction of the noise, both alert and shielding their bellies.

The sight they face makes Taehyung gasp. Another waiter, a teenager, is profusely apologising to a familiar alpha who tries to help with cleaning the broken glass and spilled coffee, not caring about the protests of the rest of the staff. His white shirt is drenched, the whole front taken over by a brown stain but he doesn’t seem to be bothered. He only keeps assuring the waiter that everything is fine.

“Poor kid, good thing he ran into such a nice alpha,” Seokjin comments and when the alpha finally gets up his eyes scan the coffee shop. At first his eyes slip past their table but after a second the realisation that he saw something familiar dawns upon him and he looks at them again.

Before Taehyung can properly register what is happening, Jeongguk is already walking in their direction and he doesn’t have time to prepare himself for the encounter. Is he really going to just ignore his destroyed shirt?

“Taehyung, how are you? How is bunny?” He then looks at Seokjin and bows slightly. “Hello.”

“Hi,” the omega looks curiously between his friend and the unfamiliar alpha. Though he must have a pretty good idea who that might be.

“She’s good, all healthy and growing.” Taehyung smiles brightly and shows the man the ultrasound photo that is still lying on a table.

“Wow, that's great and-” Jeongguk furrows his brows. “Wait, did you say she?”

“Yes, I just found out,” he doesn’t know why, but he suddenly gets shy and curls a bit around his belly. He already regrets showing the photo to the alpha. Jeongguk doesn’t care about it, he asked how they are because he’s nice but they still are only strangers. Taehyung is just a little bit thrilled and he wasn’t thinking clearly in a spur of a moment.

It looks like Jimin was right. Finding out about his pup’s gender is a big deal for him after all.

The alpha on the other hand seems to be oblivious to Taehyung’s inner turmoil as a huge bunny smile blooms on his face. “Congratulations, Taehyung! You must be super excited.”

“I am,” the omega admits and Jeongguk’s smile grows even more.

“It’s good to hear that.” He looks down at the photo again and after a few seconds gives it back to Taehyung. “I’ve never seen a pup like this but in my humble opinion she looks really cute.”

Taehyung giggles, putting the photo in his coat and Seokjin snorts. “Tell him more, he’s already arguing with me about whose baby is going to be cuter.”

“Well, of course it’s going to be bunny,” Jeongguk jokes and when he’s answered with an offended gasp, he winks at Taehyung. “I have to go now but it was good to see you again. I’m glad you are both well. Have a nice day.”

“Thanks, Jeongguk, you too.”

After Seokjin’s goodbye and one more bow, Jeongguk leaves, on the way out picking up his order at the counter. The omegas sit in silence for a bit, both deep in their thoughts. Bunny seems to be pensive, too, as she finally stopped moving. Or she just decided to take a nap.

It’s Jin who speaks first.

“He really looks like a bunny.”

“I told you!”

Chapter Text

The new week starts with Yoongi’s visit to Taehyung's apartment. He brings multiple boxes filled with food and, to Taehyung’s utter amazement, the whole tray of sweet potato fries, freshly prepared and ready to be put in the oven.

“Our sweet princess is like a sweet potato this week,” the alpha coos, caressing the baby bump. “You can bake them after your birth class. Are you sure it’s okay if you go alone?” he asks, concerned. “I can try to get out of work.”

“No, no, hyung, it’s okay, really. Jimin will join me from time to time when he has a less packed schedule and if he can’t be there, Namjoon offered to help if there will be any exercises that require a second person. He’s going to rotate between me and Jinie-hyung.”

“Okay, that makes me feel a bit better. I’m glad you met Seokjin, they are both great and I feel calmer knowing you are not totally alone during all those activities.”

Yes, Taehyung is glad too. Yoga classes are much more fun when attended with a friend and he’s pretty sure it will be the same with birth class. They’re starting today as Seokjin finally began his paternity leave and they chose one of the early afternoon classes. They preferred those to evening ones as they usually are more intimate, with fewer participants. Which for Taehyung means less potential people judging him for a lack of a mate and being a single parent. He knows Jimin or Yoongi are going to join him whenever they can but it won’t be regular because even with Yoongi’s flexible working hours, he still has his responsibilities and meetings he can’t skip. Thankfully, at least Namjoon as an owner of the gym and his schedule, can leave during the day to accompany his mate any time he wants.

Yoongi doesn’t stay around much longer as duties call, but he still explains the contents of each food container to Taehyung, takes Yeontan for a quick walk and only then leaves for his day of meetings. Taehyung admits that his life would be so much more difficult if he didn’t have his hyung in it.

He’s busying himself with writing before it’s time to get ready to go out. His book starts to get more structured and Taehyung is positive he’ll be able to finish a first draft before entering the third trimester. He’s already sent a sample of the first few chapters and it seems that the publisher is satisfied with it and the works will go smoothly, as usual.

The ride to the school takes almost half an hour if the traffic is normal but Taehyung doesn’t want to risk being late and leaves an hour in advance. The school building is situated between a gym and a pharmacy and while waiting Taehyung busies himself with checking the offer of the gym. He’s toying with the thought of signing up for some exercises for pregnant omegas soon but not many sports facilities offer such classes in their portfolios.

Seokjin and Namjoon let him know that they are running late so he decides to go inside instead of waiting for them in the cold. The weather lately is very moody and he doesn’t want to risk getting sick. It is already established that his head alpha would strangle him if he didn’t take care of himself properly.

After the registration and filling in all the documents, he arrives at the door to the class and there is already one person waiting. To his uttermost surprise it’s an alpha he met briefly some time ago.

“Oh, hello,” he greets and the alpha looks up from his phone. There’s a confusion written all over his face until a glint of recognition sparks in his eyes.

“Hi, have we met some time ago in the mall?” he asks right away and the omega nods in agreement. “How are you? I saw that crazy omega stormed out and the alpha talked with you a bit more but he seemed harmless so I left you be.”

Taehyung must admit he’s surprised the alpha remembers that incident so well and that he kept an eye on the situation after his intervention. He did say that he was going to stay around just in case but Taehyung always assumed it was more to calm him down than the real promise. The wave of gratitude washes over him and he immediately thanks the alpha profusely.

“Don’t mention it. My wife was going crazy, you know, seeing you being pregnant and treated this way. She was really worried so she’s gonna be really happy to see you’re alright." The alpha smiles warmly and soon enough the omega from the mall joins them. She recognises Taehyung straight away and as her alpha predicted, she fusses over him asking a lot of questions and sharing her outraged thoughts about the behaviour of the couple that attacked him that day.

Taehyung calms her down, thankful that the two of them were in the mall at the time and helped him. Only after he assures her multiple times that everything is fine now, she lets go and relaxes. 

They talk after that a bit while waiting for the class to start and Taehyung finds out the couple is expecting twins, which apparently scares the man shitless. He decides then to share with them his own situation and to his pleasant surprise, they seem very supportive of his decision, going even as far as offering their help if there will be any exercise requiring assistance for the omega.

“Jackson can help you,” the woman says and her mate nods in agreement. “He is so stressed I’m sure he’ll gladly practise as much as possible.”

She’s joking but the alpha’s face is serious. “Of course, soon enough I’ll have three pups to take care of,” he throws her a meaningful look, hinting at her being a baby too. “Every chance to practise is welcome.”

“That’s why we signed up for these classes so early, we have a lot to prepare for.”

Taehyung and Vicky, the omega, continue then to exchange their experience with their pregnancies, share tips and recommendations and he is sending her details about the yoga classes he’s attending when they are finally joined by Seokjin and Namjoon.

Seokjin jumps in the conversation right away, while two alphas busy themselves with their own discussion until the teacher arrives and they enter the classroom. It is more like an introduction than a real class, so Taehyung doesn’t even have a chance to feel truly uncomfortable without a partner.

Their group is small, there are only five couples and Taehyung, so it’s quite intimate and on the first impression everyone seems nice, there are no weird looks directed his way or any inhospitality whatsoever, so he deems it a win. That would be very disheartening if he had to endure cold treatment every week and he’d probably consider dropping out of the classes if that was the case. Thankfully, it seems like it won’t be necessary.

The rest of the week is very busy for Taehyung. He spends all of his days writing and editing what he’s written so far, leaving his apartment only for Yeontan’s daily walks, shopping and yoga classes.

He doesn’t even notice when days pass and suddenly it’s already Saturday. They have scheduled a pack dinner for the evening, Hoseok joining them through video chat and he already can’t wait for it. It’s also the first day in weeks where sun appeared in the sky, the seemingly permanent clouds gone, finally uncovering the light blue again.

Satisfied with his recent work, he decides to loosen up a little and treat Yeontan to a long walk in a park. They usually make a quick round, just for the dog to satisfy his needs both because Taehyung’s in a rush and because Yeontan despises the chill weather. But today might be a perfect day for a change so Taehyung packs some toys for the dog to chase after, a bowl and a bottle of water. 

When they arrive at the park, it’s the most alive since they moved to the neighbourhood. There are multiple couples with strollers, dog owners with their pets walking, running or throwing sticks, pups chasing dogs or each other, while their parents talk, keeping an eye on their offsprings. It’s the image Taehyung longed to see again for quite some time. It’s still quite cold but the sun was like a calling for everyone, finally eager to leave their houses and catch some fresh air for more than five minutes.

They walk for a bit for Yeontan to do his business and then Taehyung unhooks the leash from the yellow harness and starts to throw Yeontan’s favourite rubber bone for him to chase. The omega lets the dog run there and forth for a couple minutes but soon his swollen feet start to be a pain so he takes a seat on a nearby bench. He then gives the dog another squeaky toy, which is a sign for Yeontan that it’s time to play on his own, his human only watching over him.

It's a calm and peaceful noon and the happy noises around relax Taehyung. His sweet potato seems to enjoy herself as well, as she’s moving around with more energy than the past few days. The movements became a constant in his life, he feels more weirded out now when he can’t feel his daughter but doctor Song assured him that it’s completely normal to not feel the pup’s activity 24/7, when he called him after the first long break. Now he more or less knows a pattern when his bunny likes to do her acrobatics and with every day he only wants her more and more.

His peace is disturbed when suddenly he can see a huge brown dog charging in Yeontan’s direction, scaring the pomeranian and making him run away in distress.

“Yeontan!” He yells and immediately gets up.

He starts to waddle after him but he knows there is no use. He’s too slow and the big dog is chasing after Yeontan, keeping him running. Taehyung can only hope it’s friendly, judging by its barks and tail wagging. The omega keeps calling after his dog and finally the animal seems to hear him because he makes a sharp turn and rushes towards his owner.

Taehyung breathes out in relief but it is brief as the big dog quickly catches up that Yeontan escaped it and now it’s charging in Taehyung’s direction at full speed. The pomeranian reaches the omega, bravely standing in front of him and barking furiously but the big dog doesn’t slow down. Taehyung shrieks and hugs his baby bump protectively, not knowing what to do, when a tall figure stands in front of him, shielding him from the animal.

“Bam, down!”

Taehyung looks from behind the man and sees the dog, a doberman, he recognises now, sitting down obediently. He sighs and checks on Yeontan, who now barks alternately at the man and the other dog.

“Yeontan, come here, it’s okay,” he calls his little friend and he comes to stand between his ankles but doesn’t stop barking. Only now when the emotions have subsided, he can feel the increase in the intensity of the movements in his belly. He caresses it immediately. “It’s okay bunny, everything is fine, just a very playful puppy wants to get to know our grumpy man.”

“Taehyung?”

He looks up from the baby bump and is faced with surprised Jeongguk. Again. “Jeongguk! Hi!”

“Oh my Luna, are you okay? Is bunny okay? I am so sorry, he is harmless, just a big softie and only wanted to play and he would never attack you or your dog, I promise. Bam!” He points scoldingly at the doberman, which is still sitting and wagging his tail when spoken to. “Bad dog! Not everyone wants to play with you, you overgrown baby!” He turns back to amused Taehyung. “He knows he can’t jump but he still does it out of love to literally everyone in this world. It wouldn’t be that bad but he’s big and- oh my Luna, you could’ve fallen if I didn’t reach you faster! Bam!”

“It’s okay, everything ended well, leave the poor puppy alone,” Taehyung quickly stops the rambling alpha before he stresses himself out even more.

“He’s not a poor puppy, he’s a menace,” Jeongguk sends a stinky eye at the dog who only preens under his owner's attention. Taehyung laughs at their antics. The alpha then addresses the still yelling pomeranian, “Hey, little guy, you can calm down now.”

Taehyung watches as he crouches down to pet Yeontan, finally making him quiet down as he sniffs the man curiously. When Jeongguk is deemed harmless, it’s time for sniffing Bam and soon enough the two dogs circle each other, getting familiar with new scents.

“They seem to like each other,” Taehyung comments with a smile, seeing Yeontan reluctantly wagging his tail, when Bam play-bows in front of him. 

Taehyung then reaches into his bag and pulls out extra tennis balls he took as Yeontan has a tendency to lose his toys in parks, and throws them in two directions, making dogs rush after them. He then proceeds to look for the toy Yeontan was playing with before a gentle giant made him run for his life. Jeongguk helps him with his search and jogs for the toy the moment he spots it.

“Thank you.” The omega smiles at him.

“Please, don’t thank me, it’s the least I can do after my brute of a dog attacked the three of you.” He rolls his eyes playfully exasperated and bends to grab and throw balls for the dogs which are already waiting expectantly. Taehyung notices that the ball for Bam is thrown with much more strength and he’s again endeared by a kind alpha, who is considerate enough to give the dogs exercises suitable for their abilities.

“I told you, in the end nothing bad happened, so don’t be too harsh on him.” The dogs are back and Jeongguk throws them the balls again. “Do you mind if we go sit down? I really can’t stand for too long, the cargo is becoming more and more tiresome,” Taehyung jokes and Jeongguk immediately nods.

“Of course! Sorry, I didn’t even think-”

“Jeongguk, please, chill,” the omega laughs. “And of course don’t feel obliged to stay with me! You can go play with Bam on your own, no worries.”

“I’ll stay, if you don’t mind.” Jeongguk smiles and sits down as well when they reach the bench, keeping a respectful distance. “So, how many toys are you hiding in that bag of yours?”

Taehyung shoves his arm lightly and the alpha giggles. “I like to keep my baby entertained, you know. Besides, I neglected him a bit this week, I was working a lot so today I’m taking advantage of good weather and making it up to him.”

“You’re still working? Is that safe?” Jeongguk asks, clearly worried and Taehyung smiles reassuringly.

“Yes, pregnant people can work even till d-day, you know?” He points out amused. “It depends on the type of work of course, but I’m a writer and can work wherever I am and whenever I want, so I’m taking plenty of rest. I just want to finish this next book before welcoming my sweet girl, to not stress about it when she comes.”

“Understandable. And that’s good, you need to take care of yourself and bunny.” Jeongguk nods in approval, throwing balls for the dogs again. “What kind of books do you write?”

“Novels.”

“Romance?”

“That too.” The omega smiles.

“Hmm, I need to check them out. Is there a chance I read something of yours? Are you famous? I am not good with names so I don’t remem-” Jeongguk stops. “Actually, I only know your first name, now that I’m thinking about it.”

Taehyung chuckles, “It’s Kim Taehyung.”

The alpha looks at him for a second, as if searching for something in the omega’s expression. “Kim Taehyung as in Kim Taehyung, the author of ‘Mystery of Love’ and ‘Futile Devices’?”

“That would be me, yes.” Taehyung can’t contain his amusement at the sight of the alpha's shocked face. “I’m working on the last part of the trilogy now, actually.”

“Noo! You can’t! Your books destroyed me, oh my Luna!” Jeongguk whines and Taehyung finally laughs wholeheartedly. “You gave me trauma and now I’m passing that on all of my friends. I don’t know if I love you or hate you at this point.” He shakes his head with a serious face.

“I’m sorry, I know it was a bit painful-”

“A bit?!”

“-but all I’m gonna say is trust the process,” he finishes with a smile.

“I can trust the process, I don’t trust the author,” Jeongguk scoffs, making the omega laugh again.

“Everything was planned from the beginning, please look forward to the grande finale of their story.”

“Could I read it before it’s published?” Jeongguk leans in, wiggling his brows. “You know, by acquaintance.”

“No way,” Taehyung refuses vehemently. “You need to wait and buy the copy, do you know how expensive the diapers are?”

This time it’s Jeongguk who laughs. “Okay, okay, I’m sorry. I’ll try to be patient then. But if the whole trilogy has a sad ending, I’m gonna make a complaint.”

“Deal,” Taehyung agrees. “What about you? What do you do in life?”

“I’m a game programmer. So basically I’m responsible for coding computer games. Sometimes I help with designing too but not that often anymore,” he stops as two dogs return once again, and this time Yeontan plops down on the floor, panting heavily. “Hey, little buddy, you good?”

Taehyung immediately takes out the bottle of water and a bowl, to fill it for the two dogs. To his surprise, Bam actually lets Yeontan finish drinking in peace and only then trots around him to patiently wait for Taehyung to refill the bowl.

Taehyung coos and pats his big head. “Such a good boy, you are so cute. With your floppy ears and thin, thin tail.” As if Bam understood, he starts wagging his tail intensely, blowing Yeontan’s fur around. “Yes, I’m talking about you, Bamie.”

Yeontan gets up at that, standing on his hind legs and demanding to be picked up. Taehyung is about to do it, when Jeongguk bends down and takes the dog to place it on Taehyung’s lap. “You shouldn’t carry stuff.”

“Yeontan is not that heavy, thank you very much,” the omega scoffs and Yeontan looks at Jeongguk.

“Oh my, he looks like he’s judging me hard with those eyebrows,” he giggles and scratches the dog's head.

They pet the dogs a bit more until Taehyung finally gets cold and although a bit reluctantly, he decides to go home.

“It was nice meeting you again, Jeongguk,” he says with a smile as the alpha helps him with putting a leash back on Yeontan. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” The alpha gets up after putting Bam on a leash as well. “I’ll be heading home, too. Which way are you going?” When Taehyung points to the nearest entrance, he starts walking in that direction. “Me too, let’s go.”

They walk in silence, watching two dogs trot happily in front of them and relieving themselves, both clearly aware that the walkie time is nearing an end and they are going home. It’s peaceful in the park, the weather is still nice, pups are running around, dogs with them.

When they pass the gate, Taehyung nods his head to the left and they continue their slow stroll. The omega is not sure if Jeongguk decided to walk him home or is also heading that way but he doesn’t mind. He enjoys spending time with Jeongguk even if they are walking in silence. The alpha has a very calming presence, unobtrusive and soothing in a way, with his subtle gestures of care and kind words. 

His patchouli scent suits him perfectly, Taehyung thinks. It’s calm and grounding just like him. Like a walk in a forest after a heavy rain. Maybe Taehyung enjoys it so much because it reminds him of a bit less intense petrichor scent of his head alpha which he associates with pack and safety.

“It’s so weird, you know,” suddenly the alpha speaks, bringing Taehyung back down to earth. “We haven’t known about each other for so many years, despite living in Seoul, and now? We met for the first time and after that it’s like we keep running into each other all the time.”

“I know. It’s hard to believe, especially because as you said, before the mall incident we’ve never met.”

“Maybe we did and we just don't remember.”

“Nah, I don’t think so. I’m pretty confident I would remember if we did.” Taehyung lets the corners of his mouth lift slightly.

“Yeah, I’m quite sure I would too.”

Taehyung looks at the alpha who is already looking at him with a crooked, friendly smile. There is a mirthful glint in his eyes and Taehyung needs to turn away. Jeongguk is a great guy, if only their situation was different, he would probably think about pursuing the alpha. But he can’t. He’s pregnant and Jeongguk already has an omega. Just because he’s nice to Taehyung, it doesn't mean anything. Sometimes people keep forgetting about it. And he knows, after their few encounters, that Jeongguk is just a genuinely nice person and while some could read it as a flirt, it’s just friendliness and kindness. Taehyung knows.

They are near Taehyung’s building and he’s actually sad their time together is coming to an end. He has a feeling they’re going to meet again soon, they just talked about it, though it’s not a big consolation right now. But he’s been outside for a long time and his feet hurt again. He needs to go back home.

The two of them slow down with each step, coming to a stop in front of Taehyung’s staircase and he turns to the alpha. “Thank you for walking me home.”

Jeongguk blinks at him and looks at the door. After a moment he looks at him again. “You live here?”

“Well, yeah?” Taehyung’s heart speeds up a bit.

“I live here.”

There are a few seconds of silence, both of them equally surprised. Finally Jeongguk chuckles. “Look at us, who would have thought?”

That makes Taehyung giggle. “Not me,” he finishes the meme and they both laugh quietly.

“I guess we’ll see each other very soon then.” The alpha’s eyes sparkle and he opens his mouth to say something more when a sound of a car door being shut close stops him.

“Babe!”

They look at the smiling omega running their way and Taehyung’s heart drops. He instinctively hugs his baby bump, shielding it.

“Wonyoung, hi,” Jeongguk seems as baffled as Taehyung but quickly wraps an arm around his omega. “Do you remember Taehyung?”

She turns to him with a pleasant smile and at first she doesn’t look like she does but it quickly clicks as she catches a sniff of his scent. She visibly stiffens but the smile on her lips doesn’t waver.

“Of course. Hello, Taehyung-ssi.” She bows slightly and Taehyung quickly returns the gesture. “I would like to apologise for the last time. I let my emotions get the better of me but I know it was unacceptable. I am truly sorry.”

It is like she is a totally different person. She doesn’t throw a tantrum even though she sees the omega that is pregnant with her alpha’s baby in front of said alpha’s house and with said alpha. Taehyung is a bit shocked with her words, not expecting the actual apology, but she seems genuine and honestly, he doesn’t want to hold a grudge. He’s an omega too, he knows what it means to be possessive and protective of his most precious ones.

“Thank you, I appreciate it.”

She nods at him and turns to Jeongguk with a bright smile. “Ready to go?”

“Yes, I just need to drop Bam at the apartment,” the alpha says but seems to think this through. “Come with me, I will change as well and it’s too cold for you to wait here.”

“Okay!” Wonyoung beams and waves at Taehyung. “Bye, Taehyung-ssi.”

“Bye, Taehyung. Rest well, you and your little baby.” Jeongguk bows lightly and together with his omega and Bam climbs the stairs, disappearing in the building a moment later and leaving Taehyung and Yeontan alone.

The omega swallows heavily. Your little baby.  

After a few seconds Yeontan grows impatient and pulls him towards the entrance. Taehyung follows him like on an auto-pilot, thinking about the entire encounter. Meeting Jeongguk at the park, their conversation on the way home. The reunion with Wonyoung.

It’s all just the alpha being a friendly and kind person, he reminds himself.

Yeah. Taehyung knows.

Chapter Text

“So you have a crush on your bunny’s alpha daddy?”

Taehyung groans loudly both from Jin’s words and from the stretch in a standing side stretch pose. He’s been stiff for three days now, funnily since the last meeting with Jeongguk and Wonyoung.

“Don’t say it like that,” he grumbles, stretching the other side.

He skipped his Sunday yoga class to mope around his apartment instead. The Saturday dinner with his pack ended up with making a big nest, where Yoongi and Jimin squished him between them and Hoseok whined through the tablet how much he misses nesting with them. Even more when he saw two mates scenting Taehyung as he was all gloomy and sensitive. He didn’t tell them what happened and why he was like this. To be honest, he wasn’t even actually sure why.

Your little baby.

It shouldn’t hurt him like this. But the sudden distance Jeongguk created between them the moment his omega showed up was like a waking up slap. His rational human side might have been aware that Jeongguk and him are acquaintances but the omega in him doesn’t stand so firmly on the ground. The fact that bunny is partially from Jeongguk doesn’t help either.

“So how should I say it? You know I am right,” the other omega whispers, grabbing Taehyung’s hands and going into a puppy pose.

But Taehyung doesn’t know. After the whole afternoon, evening and even the night with his pack, as Yoongi didn’t want to let him go, stressed that his pack member is in distress and refuses to say why, he closed himself in his apartment for the rest of the Sunday.

He left only two times, very early in the morning, to Yeontan’s distaste, for morning potty walk and then in the evening after spying when Jeongguk came back with Bam. It’s sick. He won’t be able to avoid the alpha forever, especially when they live in the same building. He doesn’t even want that. He wants to live normally. But. But he needed this one day. To calm down his omega, because he knows Jeongguk is a great guy but just a friend. And his wolf knows too, but they are pregnant and vulnerable and they both just want to be loved and cared for.

So he was walking around the flat, huffing and rebuilding his nests that suddenly were far from satisfying, caressing his belly and skipping meals. And then moping some more as he was the worst appa his bunny could have asked for. He didn’t answer any calls, needing space and solitude. He turned off the phone around noon, to finally stop its ringing.

Of course, Jin told him exactly what he thought about his behaviour the next day, when he finally decided to turn on the device and let his friends know that he’s okay. And then Jin scolded him another time when they met at birth class.

“It was just my omega, we are fragile now and he got confused,” Taehyung murmurs and groans again.

One skipped class and his body is a mess. Being a male pregnant omega is no joke. He envies all the omega women who can just laze around and they will probably be still better prepared for the labour than him with all his yoga classes and other activities he’s going to start soon.

“There’s nothing wrong with having a crush, Tae.” Seokjin looks at him with sympathy.

“It is when the alpha you hypothetically crush on already has an omega,” Taehyung whisper-yells. “Plus, I probably don’t even like him. I’m just pregnant by his guys.”

Jin needs to stop the pose, because he can’t contain his laughter. He tries to be as quiet as possible, to not disturb other attendees but Taehyung still judges him hard.

“Thanks for the support. You are a great friend.”

“Sorry, Tae, but you have to admit it’s kinda funny.” Seokjin resumes the pose and continues, “Besides, I don’t think it’s just the bunny thing. You said yourself he’s a great guy. I think you just simply really like him. It’s such a shame Wonyoung is in the picture.”

“She doesn’t change anything. I’m pregnant, I don’t have time for alphas.”

“Tae, you are pregnant with him. He’s a bit different from other alphas.”

“I am not pregnant with him,” Taehyung stresses out and Jin caresses his knuckles to calm him down as his pheromones start to spike. “I am pregnant by his sperm. Somehow I chose him as a donor and that’s all that is there.”

“I know, pup, easy.”

For the next couple of minutes they just keep grunting in a dancing warrior pose.

“That would be nice though if you got together and got a second pup in a natural way,” Seokjin says again when they get to rest in a Goddess pose.

“I’m gonna strangle you, I swear.” Taehyung rolls his eyes but smiles.

“I’m telling you, horny phase is coming towards us. Keep that thought in mind for the dark times, you’ll thank me later.”

He shakes his head in amusement at his friend’s antics. He’d better not keep the images of conceiving another pup with Jeongguk in a traditional way.  Feeding his and his omega’s minds with such scenarios would make everything much much worse.

For now, he must avoid the alpha like a plague.

He should have known his plan was gonna fail much sooner than later. It’s Friday evening and he’s run out of mangos that Yoongi stuffed his pantry with at the beginning of the week. Taehyung’s eaten more mango sticky rice during the last few days than during his entire life and he’s just glad that bunny seems to enjoy her share of different fruits each week.

The writer doesn’t want to leave the apartment but he’s found out already that when he doesn’t fulfil his cravings, he becomes miserable and even proper nesting doesn’t help. He can already feel tears pricking behind his eyes and he’s on a good way to have a full mental breakdown.

To add to his bad luck, he lent his car to Jimin whose own car broke down, so now he needs to catch a bus to the supermarket as the weather outside is not inviting either. At least it’s not raining or snowing because that would be his thirteenth reason. There’s also no sign of his particular neighbour when he looks outside to check if the coast is clear.

Moping and with a lamenting omega in his head, Taehyung gets dressed and goes to the bus stop, to get it over with. At moments like this, when he’s more emotional, he shares his omegas sentiment - standing in the cold, on a Friday evening, properly pregnant, he too wishes to have an alpha to run such errands for him.

Maybe moving out of the pack house wasn’t that good of an idea after all.

He sighs heavily when the bus stops in front of him and hops on board, or more like steps in, because he knows jumping is not the best idea. There’s no point in whining, he’s a strong, independent omega and he doesn’t need anyone’s help. Especially not from some stupid, disappointing alphas.

The ride to the supermarket takes fifteen minutes. The closest shop is unfortunately already closed at this time so Taehyung was forced to take a longer trip. And all that just so he can eat another kilo of mango sticky rice. Pregnancy life is hard.

He’s choosing the best fruits, smelling and touching them, when his biggest concern comes alive.

“Taehyung?”

It’s like the alpha is always surprised when he sees him. Or maybe doesn’t quite believe that they run into each other.

Again.

“Jeongguk, hello,” he greets the man politely and turns back to the caskets with fruits, hoping to be left alone.

“How are you doing? How is bunny? I haven’t seen you in a long time.”

So now she's a bunny for you. Stupid, stupid alpha.

“Taehyung?” Jeongguk looks at the pouting omega concerned.

“I ran out of mangos,” the omega grumbles and puts another fruit in a trolley with a bit more force than necessary. “Couldn’t make my mango sticky rice and my car is at Jimin’s and I had to take a bus here. I need my mango sticky rice because on Monday a new week starts, which means a new fruit.”

“Uh…” Jeongguk seems very uncomfortable and Taehyung can already smell how his own scent sours at the sight. “Why can’t you eat mango sticky rice on Monday anymore?”

“It’s a different fruit every week.” What is there to not understand?

“Why?” Is he stupid or what?

“Because my pup grows and with each week she gets bigger and my pack loves stuffing me with fruits she’s the size of at the time,” he explains and only hopes that he got his scent under control. Jeongguk hasn’t done anything wrong, he’s only been nice and Taehyung can’t blame his spiteful behaviour on pregnancy hormones. He’s stronger than that.

There’s a few seconds of silence and Taehyung finally looks at the alpha. He’s smiling softly and his pretty, big eyes shine even in the artificial, way too strong lights of the supermarket. “That’s so sweet. So now she’s the size of a mango?” he asks, delicately taking one of the fruits in his hand.

“Yes. And we’ve both been craving mangos tonight.” The omega watches as Jeongguk puts the mango in his own trolley and proceeds to choose other fruits. He takes the opportunity to check the content of the alpha’s shopping and he’s surprised to see only food that everyone would call “healthy”. “I should get going to catch a bus back home.”

“I just need to grab a few more things so if you’re okay with waiting a minute, I’d gladly give you a lift,” Jeongguk offers and Taehyung really, really wants to say “no, thank you”, but he looks at one of the windows and sees that the glass is full of rain drops.

So he reluctantly accepts and ten minutes later finds himself in a passenger seat of Jeongguk’s car. The alpha’s scent is so strong here, Taehyung feels a bit overwhelmed. He’s sure by the time he gets home, his clothes will be completely permeated with the smell of patchouli.

Only when it’s time to buckle seat belts, he realises that Jeongguk’s car is not adjusted for pregnant people. He checks his own bag but he knows he doesn’t have his portable adapter on him. He was taking a bus and didn’t plan on calling a taxi back home. 

The omega sighs in exasperation and tries to make himself comfortable and take the strap out of belly’s way as much as possible.

“Are you alright?” Jeongguk checks before starting the engine.

“Yes, I just didn’t take my seat belt adapter with me. I didn’t expect to get a ride back.”

“Seat belt adapter?”

So Taehyung explains to the alpha the purpose of the device and Jeongguk keeps nodding his head. He looks around the car and down at his pants in thought. “I only have my belt that I think I could use, I can try to make something out of it…”

“No, no no,” Taehyung waves his hands in front of his face. “It’s fine. I put the seatbelt under my belly and it’s a short ride. Seriously, thank you but there’s no need.”

Jeongguk doesn’t seem convinced and only agrees to drive when Taehyung shows him that the strip doesn’t compress the baby bump. He starts the car then and they are finally on their way.

The radio is set on a popular music station playing the current hit songs and Taehyung is humming happily under his nose. They don’t talk, Jeongguk seems to be very focused and the writer doesn’t want to disturb him. The alpha drives much slower than necessary and Taehyung would tease him about it but refrains himself. Maybe it’s better to just not talk.

Jeongguk addresses him only when they stop at the red lights to check if he’s still fine and if he’s sure he doesn’t want him to do something with the seat belt. He politely refuses and the light goes green.

Suddenly everything is happening so fast that Taehyung barely has time to register what is going on.

Jeongguk gets the car in motion, the song on the radio changes and Taehyung keeps looking through the windscreen. The next moment, when they are in the middle of the crossroad, Jeongguk hits brakes with full force and that would make Taehyung jump to the front if not for the strong arm put in front of his chest and keeping him almost in place. The impact of hitting the alpha’s arm leaves Taehyung breathless and the next second there’s a car speeding in front of them from right to left.

“Taehyung? Are you okay?” the alpha asks with an urgency in his voice and Taehyung nods quickly, still not able to speak.

He vaguely registers that Jeongguk turns on the emergency lights and steps out of the car, leaving the door open. The omega can hear him screaming at someone, repeating that he’s got a pregnant omega in his car and a string of curses and insults. It’s the first time Taehyung can hear Jeongguk’s angry voice but before he has time to think about it more, the passenger door opens and the alpha stuffs half of himself inside, checking on Taehyung with frantic eyes.

“I’m okay, it’s fine,” Taehyung finally whispers but the alpha doesn’t listen to him, taking off the belt from his pants and making a makeshift adapter. Taehyung is not even sure how he did that and if it’s gonna work but now the seatbelt is totally out of the way of his baby bump.

Jeongguk then closes the door and runs around the car, back to the driver seat and starts driving. “We’re going to the hospital.”

Taehyung doesn’t protest. He’s still in shock but he knows they need to check on the pup. He puts hands on the baby bump and only then sees how much they are shaking. He keeps stroking the belly, talking to it and trying to calm down. His vision is blurred and he starts to sob, when the realisation that if not for Jeongguk’s quick reaction that both he and his bunny could not end well hits him.

A warm hand grabs one of his and he clings to the touch. “She’s going to be fine, Taehyung. Can you take a deep breath for me?”

He nods but still keeps sobbing and fighting to take shallow breaths.

“Taehyung. I need you to calm down. Look at me.” Taehyung moves his teary eyes at the alpha. He is not looking back at him, solely focused on the road. “Repeat what I am doing, can you do that?” And then he takes a deep breath. Taehyung instinctively does the same. Jeongguk breaths out and Taehyung breaths out. “Perfect! You’re doing great,” the alpha praises. “Now again.”

They keep doing that until they arrive at the hospital, still holding hands. Taehyung is aware it’s not very safe but he thinks he’d break down if they didn’t. Without the anchor he’d probably freak out already, stressed out of his mind.

Jeongguk lets go of him when the car is parked but he’s quick to help Taehyung out of the car and keeps his arm around the omega’s shoulder the entire way to the building and throughout the registration. The nurses take Taehyung quickly to one of the rooms, calling the doctor and leaving the alpha alone in the corridor.

When Taehyung comes out half an hour later, the alpha is walking back and forth in front of the door, his stressed pheromones oozing out of him in powerful waves. He notices Taehyung almost immediately and quickly reaches him in two strides.

“Taehyung? Is everything fine? Is bunny okay? Is she safe?” He looks at the belly with fear in his eyes and Taehyung grabs his forearms.

“She’s perfectly fine, Jeongguk. They did some exams and everything is okay.” He smiles weakly and squeezes tha alpha a bit.

“Oh fuck, thank Luna,” Jeongguk sobs out and the next second he crouches down and tucks his head between his knees.

All bells in Taehyung’s head ring in the alarm and he calls for the nurse.

It seems that the alpha is just in a bit of shock, so the nurse only brings him a cup of water and leaves the two alone. Taehyung keeps stroking calming circles on the alpha’s back until he relaxes.

“It should be me taking care of you, not the other way around,” Jeongguk whispers, still keeping his eyes closed.

“You took care of us already, you were great. And now when the adrenaline is gone, it hits you. You were almost in a car accident, of course you are shaken,” Taehyung reassures him.

“I was so scared,” the alpha admits quietly. “I was scared something would turn out to be wrong and it would be my fault. What if bunny was harmed? I could never forgive myself if something happened to her because of me.”

“Jeongguk, it wasn’t your fault. Your reactions couldn’t be better. And she is perfectly fine, I can even feel her now, she’s swimming around happily and probably slept through the whole incident.” Taehyung smiles and that’s when Jeongguk finally looks at him.

“Are you okay too?”

“Yes, they checked and I’m totally ok.”

“You promise?”

“I promise,” Taehyung confirms fondly. Why does the alpha have to be so adorable? “Are you ok?”

“Yeah, I think so. They examined me when you were in that damned room,” he sighs. “I’m just happy the two of you are okay.”

They stay like this a bit longer, resting and processing what happened and reassuring themselves that they are fine. 

All three of them are okay.

After the Friday night events Taehyung locks himself in his apartment. 

Right after Jeongguk drops him at Taehyung’s door, the omega furiously rebuilds his nest, all the mangoes and mango sticky rice long forgotten. Everything seems wrong and Taehyung can feel the anxiety oozing from his scent in waves, slowly consuming the whole bedroom and he’s sure soon it will also dominate the rest of the flat. He destroys the entire carefully assembled construction on his bed, frantically searching between items to start a new foundation.

And nothing is right. The scents, the fabrics, the pieces themselves. He arranges and rearranges but everything is out of place, everything irks him and adds to his distress. No matter what he does, it’s just not safe enough.

It goes like this the whole night. By the time the morning comes, he can barely see through the blurry covering his eyes but he doesn’t stop. He needs to build a nest. All of his clothes are scattered around the bedroom floor, all blankets unfolded and creating a big lump at the armchair in the corner, plushies long forgotten in the corridor.

He’s breathing heavily, devoid of any ideas how to provide for his bunny and keep her protected and safe. He can hear Yeontan whining in the living room, the stressed pheromones stressing him out as well but he can’t bring himself to soothe the dog.

Taehyung should take him out for a walk but the mere thought of leaving home makes him sick and he leaves the bedroom on wobbly legs. He gets the pee pads from the bathroom and goes to the balcony. He sets the small area for the dog to do his business and waits for him, so he can close the balcony door.

On a way back to the bedroom he ignores the kitchen, hunger and thirst being at the bottom of his priorities now. He passes the entry hall and stops in his tracks. He beelines to the closet and retrieves the outerwear he had on the prior evening.

Coat. Scarf. Beanie. One glove. Second glove.

The omega hurries and throws everything on bed, getting back to work.

And finally it starts to fall into place.

The grey blanket from Hobi that was too stiff before, suddenly makes an excellent support for his back, perfectly working with his pregnancy pillow.

The white sweater from Jimin, too soft just an hour ago, turns out to be an ideal barrier from the hard headboard.

Yoongi’s jumpers, all three of them, though one scented by Jimin too, arranged at the top of a few pillows, form the reliable front wall, shielding the baby bump from the door.

Even the scarfs from Jin and Namjoon somehow complement the upper back side of the nest with the two scents that became very close to Taehyung’s heart.

His own scarf ends up wrapped around his sleeping pillow, gloves tucked between Yoongi’s jumpers as if they were extra protective hands in front of bunny.

Plushies eventually form a little cove, a perfect spot to place the baby bump in.

Which Taehyung does just a minute later. Right after he puts on the beanie, lies down and covers himself with a duvet.

The final touch makes the coat, thrown on top of plushies, transforming the cove into a bunny cave. It also effortlessly reaches Taehyung’s middle, completing the whole nest.

The omega sighs, finally soothed and content and he falls asleep the moment he closes his eyes, surrounded with patchouli scent.

Chapter Text

For the remainder of the weekend, Taehyung decides to ignore a few things.

First of all, any attempts to contact him. At some point during Saturday afternoon his phone was vibrating almost constantly until it ran out of battery. He was thankful for that because the buzzing was driving him crazy, crawling under his skin and shaking his brain inside his skull. He could’ve turned it off on his own but it would require him getting out of his nest and he wasn’t leaving it if not absolutely necessary. Like letting Yeontan out on the balcony in the morning. After that he left only once to the bathroom and that was way before the annoying sounds of his phone started.

Secondly, knocking on the door. Both delicate, that Taehyung barely registered and only was sure he didn’t mishear when Yeontan started barking in alarm, and the more urgent ones. They were admittedly easy to ignore on Saturday and only grew in intensity on Sunday. He was glad he left the door locked, so his packmates couldn’t enter the apartment without his permission. Right then he didn't wish anyone apart from him, bunny or Yeontan in his nest.

Last but not least, Taehyung decided to absolutely ignore and never speak about the fact that for the whole weekend he nested in Jeongguk’s scent.

He’s ashamed - of his behaviour, of his thoughts, of his omega’s clinginess and growing attachment to the alpha. And the worst part is, he can’t even completely blame his omega or the pregnancy for this. Because even Taehyung himself feels attracted to that sweet, sweet alpha. He’s soft and caring and makes Taehyung laugh and feel safe. He’s respectful and careful to not cross any boundaries. And he has a cute dog.

So bunny or not, Jeongguk is an epitome of a perfect mate material.

But as was established earlier, he’s a future mate of a different omega, not Taehyung’s. They are going to remain neighbours until one of them decides to move out and it’s inevitable. It’s probably going to be the alpha, as he can imagine Wonyoung persistence in cutting Taehyung out of their lives. Totally understandable in Taehyung’s opinion.

Thankfully, Yeontan’s been an angel, not complaining for the lack of walks, only whining pitifully when Taehyung’s emotions overwhelmed him again and he was crying his heart out. He’s not even sure why he was in such distress, as what happened was not even a real accident. They didn’t hit anything, nothing hit them, it was just sudden braking. And after stopping at red lights, so they were going very slowly.

But the mere thought that something could have happened to his daughter…

So Taehyung waits until the patchouli scent dissolves and only then decides to leave his main nest to put himself together. He prepares quick soup and leaves it on a stove to boil slowly, while he takes a thorough shower. After that he smells back like himself and he kinda hates it but on the other hand it clears his mind. When his nostrils aren’t clogged with the earthy fragrance it’s much easier to look at things level-headed.

The writer is in the middle of filling the bowl with noodles and soup when an insistent knocking returns. He sighs, looking longingly at food but when he hears the loudest thud so far and Yoongi’s angry voice yelling, “If you don’t open the door right now I’m going to break it down”, he rushes to the entrance. He makes sure that his outwear is back safely in the closet in the hall and finally unlocks the door.

He doesn’t have time to open them himself, when his head alpha barges into the apartment, looking around frantically. Yoongi completely ignores Taehyung and walks further inside the flat, not bothering to take off his shoes, and checks all of the rooms.

“Are you okay, sweetheart?” Jimin on the other hand doesn’t care about the flat, immediately hugging Taehyung to himself and scenting him. Taehyung is not sure if his friend does it more for Taehyung or himself, but he’s grateful. He starts to smell like his pack again. “You scared us shitless.”

“Kim Taehyung.” Yoongi appears back in the hall, after establishing that the location is safe, and he doesn’t look pleased.

“Hi, hyung,” the omega curls in himself, trying to hide in Jimin’s arms.

“Kim. Taehyung,” the alpha repeats. “Do you have any idea what we went through during the last 24 hours?”

Taehyung lowers his head in shame, his inner wolf whimpering quietly. They disappointed their alpha. “I’m sorry.”

“Do you know how we felt, when we were standing here, knocking at the door, smelling your distress in the corridor and all while not being able to do anything?” Yoongi takes a deep breath. “It’s the second time when you turned off your phone. If you need space go on. Have it. We don’t have to talk everyday. But let us know you are fine and safe!”

The omega doesn’t mention his solitude was exactly to ensure that. He knows he’s in the wrong here. Now when the emotions cooled down he’s painfully aware how irresponsible he’s been.

“I’m sorry hyung, truly,” he mumbles. “Something happened on Friday and I needed to nest and didn’t want anyone around.”

“We know, Taehyungie,” Jimin soothes, petting his head and baby bump. “But bunny is safe, you don’t have to worry.”

“I know it now- wait,” Taehyung looks at his packmates. “How do you know?”

“Jeongguk told us,” Yoongi explains and the omega widens his eyes in shock. “He’s been trying to get to you even longer than us, we found him here yesterday pacing back and forth in front of your door.”

Taehyung is stunned. Did he try to check on him after Friday events?

As if reading his thoughts Jimin speaks again, “He said he could smell your anxiety in his apartment and when the scent didn’t calm down till Saturday noon he started to get worried.”

The omega is even more bewildered. He doesn’t know where exactly Jeongguk lives but for sure not on his floor, so how much did he have to stink up their building for the alpha to smell him even at his home?

“I already let him know you are all right. We exchanged numbers yesterday just in case. He lives here, he’d be able to react first if anything happened,” Yoongi sighs and gestures at Taehyung to come to him.

After a proper scenting and a playful tickle at Taehyung’s ribs, the two omegas move to the kitchen so Taehyung can eat. While Jimin informs their friends that Taehyung is fine, Yoongi takes on himself to clean the bedroom and after that he moves to clean the balcony and take Yeontan on his long due walk.

When two friends are left alone, Jimin turns to Taehyung with mischief in his eyes.

“So,” he starts, teasingly. “Your alpha-”

“He’s not my alpha, Jimin. Please, not you, too,” he whines and stands up to get himself extra helping.

“-was planning to climb onto your balcony today if you didn’t open the door.”

Taehyung turns around at that, to look at Jimin who seems very pleased with himself. “What?”

“Yeah, but then they decided with Yoongi they would just break down the door.” The omega shrugs. “I personally think climbing the balcony would be much more romantic, plus less problematic because how would we get you a new door on Sunday?”

“And a new window wouldn’t be a problem?”

“I’m sure there are ways to open the window without breaking it.” Jimin waves his hand dismissively. “The point is, he was really worried. I think he likes you.”

Taehyung doesn’t say anything to that for a few seconds, carefully refilling his bowl and preparing two more for his packmates. “Maybe he does but even if, then only as a friend. It doesn’t matter, though. I don’t have time for this.”

“Taehyungie…”

“Please, Jiminie, I had a very crappy two days, can we not talk about it?” he pleads, setting the bowls at the table.

The omega doesn’t have time to answer because the door opens, signalling the return of Yoongi and Yeontan. And soon enough they can hear his yell from the hall, “Did Jimin tell you already that Hoseok even wanted to fly back to Seoul?!”

Two mates leave Taehyung’s apartment only after making sure his phone is charged and turned back on, scenting Taehyung and his nest and after basically putting Taehyung to bed. They also leave him with the whole stock of bananas for the next week. Only his pack could be worried sick about him and still stop to think what fruit size a pup on the way is now.

Taehyung loves them dearly.

He thinks about skipping birth class on Monday but he knows it’s not a very responsible thing to do. Especially considering that he skipped Sunday yoga class. If he’s going to continue like this, he won’t be able to go through this pregnancy and for sure he can forget about giving birth.

Anyway, after hyping himself up in front of the mirror, he’s positive he can survive the clash with high on hormones pregnant omega. Even if that omega is Kim Seokjin.

Last week he was spared during birth class as two mates had to run some errands and he had an extra day to prepare himself for the encounter but he knows that this time nothing is going to stop Jin from giving him his piece of mind. Also, this time the omega was deprived of the yelling at Taehyung through the phone. And Taehyung knows he’s been preparing, as yesterday after confirming that he’s going to join the class the next day, he received a very ominous message saying “Good.” with that frightening dot of hate at the end.

On the way to the school he sends a quick message to Namjoon, begging to keep his omega from killing him.

Thankfully when it comes to it, it is not that bad and after being yelled at, with a detailed explanation why what he did was dumb, irresponsible and threatening to bring multiple people a heart attack, Taehyung ends up being scented by his friend. As in Seokjin’s books it means he’s forgiven, even Namjoon visibly breathes out and politely asks Taehyung to not disappear like that ever again.

He really feels bad about the stress he brought to his packmates and two friends, who quickly become one of the closest people to him, but it is really heartwarming, the knowledge that he’s so loved and cared for.

He’s not alone.

Somehow he doesn’t run into Jeongguk until Thursday late morning. He’s a bit relieved he hasn’t met him earlier as by then his rational thinking came back fully and he’s ready to be a good neighbour and a polite acquaintance.

He’s leaving the building for a walk with Yeontan when he literally walks into the alpha.

“Oh, sorry,” he mumbles, embarrassed.

“No problem- Taehyung!” Jeongguk exclaims and Taehyung can see how he quickly scans him, smiling only after seeing that everything seems fine. “Are you feeling better?”

“Yes, I do, thanks.”

They stand like this and for several moments no one says anything. Taehyung takes this time to properly look at the alpha. He’s wearing a tank top and shorts, an absolutely unsuitable outfit for the early April weather outside, and sweat rolls down his face slowly.

Something in Taehyung turns unpleasantly and he’s pretty sure it’s not his pup’s acrobatics.

“Anyway, I’m sorry for bothering you during the weekend. Hyung told me you could’ve smelled me in your apartment, I’m really embarrassed and I had no idea-”

“Hey, Tae, it’s okay,” the alpha interrupts him and puts a hand on Taehyung’s shoulder. A very big and warm hand. Taehyung blinks at him. “It was troubling only because I knew you were stressed and I couldn’t do anything about it, not because it got to my apartment. So seriously, don’t stress about it.” 

He lowers that warm hand to Taehyung’s arm to squeeze it lightly and drop it back to his side.

“And how is bunny? Oh!” He suddenly looks excited. “Isn’t she like a banana this week?”

At that the omega can’t stop himself and grins as well. “Yeah, she is. Are you joining the gang of fruit followers?”

Jeongguk laughs and his eyes crinkle adorably, together with that button nose of his. “I have to admit, it got me curious. It’s just so adorable. Before I met you I didn’t even know that such counting existed.”

“Believe me, me neither. It took me getting pregnant for my head alpha to find out such things,” he chuckles and measures Jeongguk’s attire again. And again there’s that weird twist in his stomach. “Aren’t you cold? It’s freezing, you’re going to be sick!”

“Nah, it’s okay, because… I’m JK,” the alpha winks and Taehyung snorts. “I know it’s a lame joke but my friends love to explain everything that goes right in my life with this saying. I got a promotion? He’s JK. The bird pooped on the sidewalk instead of my shoulder? He’s JK.”

He shakes his head with a solemn face and Taehyung can’t help but laugh. “Okay, okay, JK ,” he emphasises and Jeongguk sticks out his tongue at him. The omega’s mind gets a bit lost at this sight but he quickly regains his composure. “I still think you need to get inside and besides, I really need to take my little prince for a walk or he’s going to pee on one of our shoes just to teach us a lesson.” Jeongguk laughs, when the dog barks as if in confirmation of his owner’s words.

“Well, if that’s the case, I’m not going to hold you any longer,” he chuckles and crouches down for a second to scratch Yeontan’s head. “Have a nice walk then, little guy.” He stands up with a bright smile. “It was nice seeing you, Taehyung and bunny. Enjoy your walkies.”

“Thanks, have a nice day, Jeongguk.”

Taehyung is pretty sure he’s blushing but luckily for him, the weather is crisp and Jeongguk is nice, so if the alpha’s noticed, he probably assumes it’s just Taehyung’s reaction to standing in a cold for so long.

Yeah. He wishes.

Later at yoga class Taehyung still can’t take one particular image out of his head.

He’s stretching his left side and a drop of sweat rolls down his neck, just like another drop ran down Jeongguk’s face this morning.

The writer closes his eyes and changes to the other side and there they are, the wet strands of hair sticking to the alpha’s forehead, right above strong eyebrows popping up in his head. Was there really a piercing in the right one or he’s just projecting?

He groans loudly, reaching forward and then down to his feet. How about his brain shuts up right now?

But the teacher has no mercy for Taehyung. 

Just a few minutes later, the omega is comfortably sitting on his mat, his legs open, feet shoulder-width apart, with his hands supporting him in the back. Just when they go to reverse tabletop pose from there, his brain unhelpfully starts to slip him the images of Jeongguk right between his legs, looking at him with that quirk of a brow. Would he hold Taehyung’s hips when his arms get tired, and keep him in this position? Would he turn Taehyung’s groans into moans? Or would he flip him over and mount him like that?

The omega curses and Seokjin throws him a curious look. This is a nightmare.

They rest and breathe a little bit, Taehyung works hard to empty his head but it proves useless the moment the teacher guides them onto their all fours. His spine goes into a flexion and he enjoys it immensely until he needs to turn it into extension. His back creates a delightful arch  right now, with his head thrown back, eyes closed. It’s so easy to pretend someone is behind him. Watching as he presents himself, ready to pounce, devour, take and reduce to a mess.

To breed.

“Taehyungie?”

“I need to go,” he croaks out and gathers himself from the floor.

With the mat rolled messily and shoes in his hand, the omega hurries out of the room. He’s only grateful that it’s a small school and there are no people outside the room. No alphas that could smell his aroused scent. It’s not the first time one of the omegas got turned on during their classes, after all their hormones are out of place and the pregnant imagination works at its best, but he’s absolutely embarrassed and terrified by who is the protagonist of his fantasies.

Taehyung’s out of the school as soon as he puts on his outerwear, not bothering with changing from his gym clothes. It’s evening and it’s cold but his car is right outside, so he’s going to be fine with his coat if he speed walks.

The ride in elevator from the underground garage back at home is a torture but he tries to keep his composure because he still needs to take Yeontan for a walk. It’s a bit risky, he might be pregnant but he’s still an unmated omega and he could take out pee pads again for the dog but he’s neglected his baby too much lately.

It’s a quick walk but at least Yeontan has an opportunity to chase a few pigeons and it’s always better than doing his business on the balcony. Yeontan might not be able to speak Korean but Taehyung still understands his little barks of appreciation.

The omega receives a message when he’s running back home in a hurry to reach his drawer with toys and do things he’s gonna regret the first thing the clarity of his mind comes back.

Jinnie-hyung: I’ve been waiting for this day to come. Remember how we talked about making that second pup in an old school way? ;)

Taehyung groans so loudly he thinks the flock of birds behind him flies away. Out of all the scenarios he was going to indulge himself in, he totally forgot about that one. He puts a hand on his belly, silently apologising to his daughter that she’s going to witness Taehyung’s immoral getting off to the dreams about her alpha father. About them making her a sibling at that.

When exactly did his life become a joke?

It turns out that the universe doesn’t plan on stopping messing around with him as the moment he opens the door to the building, the object of Taehyung’s fantasies stands right there in front of him. Once again clothed in a work-out attire, this time thankfully not sweaty yet (thankfully, because Taehyung isn’t sure he wouldn’t jump his bones if he was) and with an excited dog next to him.

“Hi Tae! Hello Yeontan!” Jeongguk waves at them, smiling brightly and scrunching his cute nose. “We’re going for a run, Bamie was a bit jealous, I went this morning without him.” He rolls his eyes, blabbering happily, clearly not realising he’s facing a very desperate omega. Desperate for him specifically. “So we decided to turn our walk into a jog, I would offer you to go with us but both of you would just cutely waddle around and I am not even sure that’s safe for bunny.”

He finally pauses, as if he has suddenly noticed that Taehyung hasn’t greeted him yet and the air around them is different. The alpha sniffs carefully and his eyes widen at the realisation.

“Taehyung?”

“Alpha,” he whines pitifully and takes a step back, to distance himself from that damned patchouli scent. He can see Jeongguk’s jaw flexing at being addressed by his rank.  “I- I-”

“Did you go out in this state?” Suddenly there’s a strong arm wrapped around Taehyung and quickly pushing him toward the elevator. “Bam, stay,” Jeongguk commands and the dog taps impatiently in place but doesn’t follow them. “Tae, you can’t be walking around like this…”

“I’m sorry, Alpha,” he peeps out and hangs his head low. Just on the weekend he disappointed Yoongi hyung and now Jeongguk. He’s a bad omega.

“Hey, hey, Tae, it's fine, shhh,” the alpha squeezes his waist, gently caressing it after. “I’m just worried, you shouldn’t walk around the street… smelling like… smelling…”

“Do I smell bad?” He looks at Jeongguk with wide eyes, tears welling up fast and threatening to spill.

“No, no, no! That’s not- Tae, it’s a total opposite. And that’s why someone could have hurt you,” Jeongguk scolds him gently but it actually makes Taehyung feel a bit better. He doesn’t stink for the Alpha.

“I needed to go out with Tannie.”

He doesn’t know why but he feels like he needs to explain himself. Just to be hundred percent sure that Jeongguk is not disappointed in him. When the little ding rings, Jeongguk guides them inside the elevator, Yeontan happily trotting in behind them.

“Okay, how about that, next time you let me know and I will go with Tannie, hm?” The man beams and Taehyung can see how he tries to breath through his mouth. Does he stink after all?

“Okay,” he agrees quietly and pouts.

“Moon fucking Goddess,” he can hear Jeongguk mutter under his nose but he doesn’t even try to understand why because he decides to use the short ride to inhale as much patchouli scent as possible.

It’s a bit different than usual. It’s heavier, more spicy and it makes the omega’s head dizzy. When they met in the park for the first time, Taehyung described it as calm and grounding. Like a walk in a forest after a heavy rain.

Today there’s nothing grounding in it. Or calming. It’s crawling under Taehyung’s skin, making him burn from inside and clouding all of his senses. He can’t get enough of it no matter how deeply he breathes. He wants to be covered by it. By the hot body it belongs to. He wants Jeongguk to scent the shit out of him and the mere thought makes him moan and tremble in the alpha’s arm that is still around him, preventing him from collapsing.

He doesn’t realise he keeps releasing aroused pheromones in uncontrollable waves throughout the whole ride and by the time the elevator door opens at his floor, it smells there as if the omega went into a heat inside.

“Come on, Tae, we’re almost there.”

Some miraculously sober part of his brain provides to the remaining excited part that “we are” finishes the moment Taehyung is safely escorted to his apartment. He tries really hard to not succumb to the desires of his omega, and his own as well, and patiently waits for Jeongguk to push in the code he utters to him in between heavy pants.

It’s right when the alpha moves closer to him, so close that if Taehyung turned his head a little bit to the left he could stuff his nose into alpha’s scent gland, when he catches a whiff of another smell. Lavender.

It repulses him and he takes a few hasty steps back, almost falling down in a process, saved only thanks to Jeongguk’s quick reflexes.

“Hey, are you okay? Your scent-”

“I am so sorry,” Taehyung utters, terrified. “I have violated you, it’s almost like I scented you.”

“Taehyung, it’s okay, don’t worry about it.”

“It is not okay, your omega…” he trails off as the omega in his head growls in displeasure. Yeah, I feel you, buddy.

“I said, don’t worry about it.” Jeongguk looks at him with a serious face. “I don’t feel violated, so we’re good.” He finally opens the door and gently pushes Taehyung inside. “Okay, I really need to go. Like, right now. I will close the door and wait to hear you lock it, so I’m sure you’re safe, yeah?” Taehyung nods obediently. “Have fun.” The alpha winks with a sly grin and closes the door.

Still in a daze he locks it and Jeongguk knocks gently, letting him know he heard it.

The remorseful thoughts are quickly gone when Taehyung takes off his outerwear and he still smells like an earthy patchouli. It again makes his skin tingle and his insides start to contract in excitement.

He walks to his bedroom on wobbly legs, closing the door behind him to prevent Yeontan from disturbing whatever is going to happen in this room. A minute later the omega is already naked, with a nose stuffed into his yoga top. It smells like Taehyung’s arousal and sweat and Jeongguk. It smells like sex. 

It’s dirty and immoral but he can’t bring himself to care anymore.

The alpha told him they’re okay. He wished him fun.

So Taehyung finally lets go.

As expected, after the draining evening of… the only thing that comes to Taehyung’s mind to describe it is “pregnancy heat”, when the omega wakes up the next morning he’s mortified. As much as at first he was worried about masturbating to the thought of the taken alpha father of his pup, now he is even more terrified because said taken alpha father KNOWS.

Jeongguk is not stupid. He must be smart to do the job he does and his analytical brain probably connected the dots right away and now he’s painfully aware that when he left Taehyung at his apartment, the omega was going to fuck himself to the thought of him.

Taehyung was in such a daze, he’s not sure if he didn’t even scream the alpha’s name. Oh, dear Luna, what if Jeongguk heard him?! That would be the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to the writer and he would have to leave the country. No exaggeration.

He doesn’t see the alpha when he goes for a walk with Yeontan, during the walk or when they are coming back. There is nothing weird about it but as much as he dreads the first time running into Jeongguk, he would prefer to get it over with. He spends the entire day writing as lately he hasn’t worked much and it’s always been the best distraction for the omega. He might be stressed but the moment he sits down to write, it’s like he teleports to another world where his present worries disappear.

It’s already late afternoon, when he decides it’s enough for today and goes to the window to check the weather before going for a walk with Yeontan. That’s when he finally sees Jeongguk.

Except the alpha is packing a suitcase to the trunk of his car and then proceeds to buckle Bam in the backseat.

Taehyung’s mind goes spiralling. 

Is he moving out? Is it because of him? Is the alpha disgusted by him? Did he offend the alpha? Did the alpha decide the line was crossed way too much and now despises him and doesn’t want to live in the same neighbourhood? Will Taehyung receive the restraining order any day now?

He shakes his head. It’s not possible. Jeongguk would never move out because of what happened yesterday. Right? Nonetheless he calls Hoseok and vents to him, pacing around the living room and releasing stressed pheromones. Yeontan keeps barking at him whenever he nears his little dog bed but he doesn’t care. He’s offended the alpha.

Which according to Hobi is not true and Taehyung is being overdramatic.

“It’s Friday, Tae-ah, he’s probably going somewhere for the weekend.” Taehyung can almost see the roll of his eyes in his voice. “If he moved out, I’m sure he’d have more than one suitcase.”

“That… makes sense, actually,” the omega breathes out and smiles. “Thanks, hyung.”

“No problem, pup. How is our little Hana banana today?”

“I told you already, I’m not calling her Hana,” Taehyung stresses and goes to the kitchen to grab one of the dozens of bananas from his fruit bowl. “Make yourself your own pup if you like it so much.”

“Thanks, but no thanks,” Hoseok scoffs. “I don’t have time for it. When I come back, I’m gonna help you with our not-Hana banana and then I’m going to open a school in Seoul.”

“That’s amazing, hyung! You’ve been playing with this thought for years now.”

It’s true. Hoseok dreamed about teaching dancing since before they even met.

“I know, I can’t wait. Speaking about playing with thoughts, or to thoughts,” there's a mischief clearly distinguishable in the beta’s voice. “So, you went full on omega-in-heat mode because of your sexy alpha daddy?”

“Dear Luna… Bye, hyung.”

Not caring about the screams of protests, he hangs up and lies down on a sofa with a groan. Immediately, Yeontan gets up from his bed to jump on the sofa and nest himself between bunny and Taehyung’s chest. The dog exhales heavily.

“I know, I know, life is hard.”

And of course Taehyung sees Jeongguk coming back with Bam and the same suitcase on Sunday evening.

Chapter Text

The new week starts for Taehyung with a very vigorous knocking on his door. He reaches for the phone at the bedside table to check the time and groans. It’s been ages since he woke up at 6 the last time and it’s still just as unpleasant. He’s about to go back to sleep when the knocking starts again.

With huffing and puffing he rolls out of his nest and drags his feet to the door. He might be up but he doesn’t have to be enthusiastic about it.

Taehyung opens the door without even checking the peephole and is greeted with a bunch of carrots being shoved in his face. He sputters and takes a step back.

“What is this?”

“Good morning, Taehyungie!” And Taehyung would never guess his head alpha is capable of sounding so cheerful. “I brought a bouquet of carrots for our bunny! Her first bouquet!”

And that’s when those carrots are shown in bunny’s face. Or Taehyung’s belly.

“Let me guess…”

“It’s carrot week! I’ve been waiting for it for so long, you have no idea.”

Yoongi doesn’t wait any longer and gets inside the apartment and strolls to the kitchen, not looking behind. Taehyung only rolls his eyes and closes the door. “I can see that.”

He observes as Yoongi unpacks all the food containers together with…

“Did you buy me a juicer?” he asks incredulously. The alpha doesn’t seem phased.

“Yes, I did. And a bunch of fruits and carrots so you can start using it immediately,” he explains while connecting it to the power. “Jimin is going with you for a birth class today.”

“I know, he texted me. He’s also going with me for another ultrasound. Hyung, you need to stop buying me things,” Taehyung scolds.

“Nonsense. I am your alpha, I need to provide for you.”

Taehyung rolls his eyes but doesn’t say anything else. He can provide for himself and bunny well enough and Yoongi knows that. Taehyung also knows that Yoongi won’t suffer if he spends some money on him so most of the time he just indulges him. Jimin often jokes that Taehyungie is Yoongi’s favourite, even though Jimin is his mate. It’s bullshit, they all know it.

Taehyung doesn’t want to think how crazy Yoongi will go when Jimin gets pregnant. He tells him so.

“When Jimin is pregnant at least I will be able to keep an eye on him all the time, for sure he won’t bring me so much stress.” A pointed look sent Taehyung’s way says more than words.

“Did you talk with Jeongguk recently?” the omega asks in a casual tone but of course Yoongi doesn’t buy it.

“What did you do again?”

“I didn’t do anything! Just ran into him the other day…”

The alpha seems to be suspicious but thankfully, he’s the type who prefers not to know some things. “We only talked when you bunked yourself down here.”

Taehyung nods, thoughtfully. Good, good. He didn’t expect Jeongguk to tell anyone about the incident but it’s still better if his head alpha doesn’t know.

“Okay, all done. I would make you juice too but I need to run to the meeting. We are officially approving the setlist for that new P1Harmony album and they want me there too.” He rolls his eyes and goes to the door.

“Hard life of the producer,” the omega jokes. “I’m proud of you.”

“I’m proud of you too, pup. Sorry for not taking off the shoes.”

“It’s fine.”

“Bye, bunny.” He pats the baby bump. “Have fun at birth class,” he smooches Taehyung’s forehead and scents him lightly. 

For the first time in a few days the omega feels grounded.

“I’m so excited, I hope I will be needed to do some things today.” Jimin bounces on his seat on the mat next to Taehyung.

They are sitting between Seokjin and Namjoon and Jackson and Vicky. Vicky looks like she starts to struggle a bit at this stage and it’s so endearing to see her alpha fret over her constantly. But the moment the omega winks at Taehyung, he starts to doubt if the pregnancy really is so exhausting as she makes her alpha believe.

Seokjin still looks the most radiant in the whole room. The only person who could compete with him is Felix, who, even though is already in his third trimester and looks like he’s trying to smuggle a little watermelon under his shirt, always looks like he’s on a way to model for some photoshoot.

As if the teacher knew there will be one enthusiastic to help newcomer today, the moment she steps in the classroom, she announces that today they are gonna practise some massage techniques and positions for labour using a birthing ball combined with more massage tips.

All the pregnant omegas seem excited hearing that and the alphas sit up more straight ready to practise and relieve their partners.

“Finally something more useful than breathing,” Jin mumbles under his nose and Taehyung giggles.

“You see, Jiminie, you will have a very important job to do.” He smiles at his friend. “I am in immediate need of some massage.”

They start with back pain and Taehyung has to admit, he doesn’t want this class to end. Jimin is a very diligent partner and carefully listens to all the instructions, recreating all steps perfectly, cautious not to hurt Taehyung at any time.

Later come legs and feet, all of it very pleasurable and actually most of the class omegas just keep groaning in delight while the alphas spoil them a bit.

When they get to the pregnancy ball it’s still very relaxing, the teacher shows them a few positions and the omegas with the help of their partners mirror her, trying to get a hold of it. It’s not complicated but all the wolves are a little untrusting when the omegas bounce on the balls.

It’s when Taehyung is already relaxing on his knees with arms folded on top of the ball and head resting on them, when Jimin speaks, lightly massaging his thighs.

“You know, maybe Jeongguk could come with you for one of those classes. I’m sure you would enjoy his massage much more than mine,” he teases and Taehyung groans. “And let me tell you, he’d surely enjoy the view I have in front of me right now.”

The writer turns around to look at his friend in annoyance but before he can say anything, Seokjin chimes in.

“Oh, Taehyungie would love that for sure. Especially after the steamy session he had on Thursday.”

Taehyung hides his face in his arms. He changes his mind. Please, make the class finish immediately.

“Oh?” Jimin looks at Jin, his hands stopping their sweet ministrations. “Steamy session? With Jeongguk?”

“More like with a thought of him,” Seokjin giggles and Jimin joins him right away.

“I see. Well, well, well. Who would have thought that our ‘he-has-an-omega’ Taehyung would do such a scandalous thing as masturbate to the thought of a hot alpha daddy,” he mocks mercilessly, making two mates laugh out loud.

“Very funny! It’s not like I could control it! It’s those stupid hormones.” Taehyung turns around annoyed. “Plus, his scent didn’t help. It was a torture! I’ve never been more embarrassed in my entire life.”

The moment the words leave his mouth he regrets them instantly. Shit, shit, shit.

“His scent? How did you…” Seokjin gasps and sits on his hunches, looking both bewildered and delighted. “Did you run into him when you got home?”

“No…?”

“Oh my…” Namjoon chuckles under his breath but quickly purses his lips, when met with a stinky eye from Taehyung.

“I wouldn’t but I had to go for a walk with Yeontan,” Taehyung whines, making his friends laugh again. “That was a disaster, please let’s not talk about it anymore. Please, please, please.”

“No way, I need to hear all about it,” Jimin protests and Seokjin nods vigorously. “Every detail your dirty, little mind created thinking about him.”

“Please don’t,” Taehyung cries.

“Please don’t,” Namjoon supports him. At least he has one moderately good friend.

“Okay, we won’t talk about it now but how about going out for some drinks on Friday? Virgin ones for you two, of course. We could also celebrate that you’re halfway through your pregnancies!”

That actually sounds fun. It’s been a long time since Taehyung went out to a bar and he could use some time out to loosen up a bit. An omega night out sounds like a perfect option. Plus, by the time the weekend comes, they may forget all about his horny incident.

“I’m in,” Seokjin immediately agrees and the two look at Taehyung expectantly.

“Yeah, let’s do it.”

The class wraps up soon after and all the omegas leave the building much more relaxed than when they arrived.

Taehyung and Jimin drive to doctor Song’s office, where they find out that bunny develops healthily. She seems even a bit bigger than expected, which doctor jokes might be the result of choosing the right donor. Taehyung’s cheeks positively burn and Jimin cackles next to him like a madman. It also means that other people might start to feel her kicks and jabs very soon, while touching the baby bump and Jimin is more than excited for it.

They are also very lucky to actually catch bunny at sucking her thumb. It makes two omegas tear up while doctor Song captures a photo for them and as always prints out multiple copies. Yoongi is totally gonna break down when he sees it.

And of course he does, when the two arrive at the pack house for dinner and for the rest of the evening they celebrate their little joy.

Taehyung is at the local swimming pool, when Hoseok facetimes him the next day. He decided to drop off from his yoga classes on Tuesdays to start swimming as he’s read it’s a good pain reliever. And who doesn’t like to float a bit and relax?

Hoseok usually can’t join them via calls if they gather during the week but he always tries to catch up the day after with each of them, so the omega picks up even though he’s already in the changing room, dressed up in his yellow swimming shorts, ready to go and hop in the water. At first he was not entirely convinced about sharing the changing room with all the ranks and genders, especially now, when he’s pregnant and his body looks a bit different but fortunately the pool is very cameral and almost no one comes here at this time of the day. He only passed one female beta who was leaving when he arrived and if not for the staff, the pool was basically abandoned.

“I saw the photo the moment I woke up. I cried so hard, Taehyungie, she’s growing so well,” the beta coos and Taehyung can't help but smile. 

“We all did, hyung. Yoongi was still crying while plating the food. I’ve never expected him to turn into such a softie.”

“And it’s going to be much worse when it’s their time.”

“I keep saying exactly the same! Jimin is going to be so sick of him.”

Hoseok laughs hysterically and Taehyung looks at him on his little phone screen. Goddess, he misses him so much.

“Sorry for calling like this, I’m not gonna disturb you for too long. I just wanted to see you, it sucks that I couldn’t join our pack dinners for so long already. I really can’t wait to come back.”

“We can’t wait too. The pack belongs together.”

“Don’t go sentimental on me. Could you please send me a package with some scented blankets soon? I had a small accident on the weekend that involved very red ramyeon and I had to wash everything in my nest,” the beta pouts.

“I don’t want to ask what metaphor it stands for.”

“It was literally ramyeon because my dumb ass decided to watch TV in bed instead of in the living room and I tripped while trying to get in.”

Taehyung laughs and turns the camera around to show himself in the mirror.

“Oh, you’re showing so much already, Taehyungie! Hi bunny!” Hoseok waves vigorously with both of his hands and Taehyung really wishes bunny could see how excited everyone is to meet her.

“Yes, she’s bigger and bigger almost every day. And look! My ‘innie’ is an ‘outie’ now.” He zooms at his belly button and the beta coos again.

“You look amazing, Tae, seriously. I have one colleague here who is also pregnant, and she looks like the baby is sucking the life out of her. Like that baby in ‘Twilight’.” He shudders with exaggeration. “If you’re going to swim, does that mean bunny will be like in a submarine?”

“A yellow submarine at that,” Taehyung jokes but seeing Hoseok’s unimpressed face, he decides to not add that that was the exact reason why he chose this colour of trunks. It’s a bit hypocritical of the beta, after all it’s not like he made any better joke. It was just as lame as his and he’s about to say that but he hears a chuckle on his right.

He looks to the side and shrieks surprised, almost dropping the phone.

“Taehyung! Are you okay?” He can hear Hoseok’s alarmed voice, but he doesn’t see him as he’s clutching his phone to his chest and looks at Jeongguk in front of him with wide eyes.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt or scare you.” The alpha smiles sweetly and Taehyung’s heart starts beating so hard, he’s scared that Hoseok might be able to hear it through the phone. “But I couldn’t hold back when I heard your joke.”

“It’s okay. I think I just had a small heart attack,” he breathes out.

“Who is this?” Hoseok asks but Taehyung ignores him.

“What are you doing here? Don’t you have work or something?” he asks instead and the alpha runs his tattooed hand through his hair with a quiet laugh, which shouldn’t be as attractive as it is.

“I do. But I like to come here during the day when it’s not crowded. Well, it never is but there are always some people in the evenings and I know that at noon there’s no one here after one beta girl leaves.”

“Is that Jeongguk? Oh shit, Tae, he really is hot, what the fuck?”

“Bye, Hobi! Love you!” The omega screams and rushes to end the call, tapping the screen aggressively and not caring about his packmate’s laughter. He throws the phone inside the locker and quickly closes it. “Sorry about that. He has no brain to mouth filter.”

The alpha laughs and Taehyung hates Hoseok, because now he can’t help but ogle the alpha. He really is hot. He’s hot in clothes but without them? He’s basically sex on legs with his undercut and sharp, pierced brows, ears stuffed with earrings, lip piercings, well defined pecs and abs, those bulging biceps, right arm fully covered with colourful ink. Taehyung carefully avoids looking at his swimming shorts (he only notices they are in toucan print) but stares for a bit too long at two strong thighs. He bets if he touches them, they would be hard as a rock and he needs to stop because if he doesn’t, a different part of Taehyung will soon become hard as a rock.

In conclusion - Jeon Jeongguk should be illegal. 

He snaps his eyes back up at Jeongguk’s face and the alpha is pursing his lips, the amusement clearly visible on his features.

“I’m sorry,” Taehyung blurts out and Jeongguk laughs again.

“It’s okay. You had to check if your friend was right,” he jokes and his eyes sparkle mischievously. “So, what’s the verdict? What-the-fuck hot as he claimed or just regular hot?”

“Dear Luna, Jeongguk!” The omega whines and turns around to get to the pool. “Why is everyone bullying me lately?” he mumbles under his nose.

But before he can reach showers, there’s a gentle hand on his shoulder, stopping him.

“Who is bullying you?” Jeongguk asks, all traces of playfulness gone.

To say that Taehyung is shocked is an understatement. “I- No one? I was joking. Just my friends lately make a lot of fun of me and now you too.”

The alpha visibly relaxes and takes his hand back. “Sorry. I just… If you ever have someone being mean to you, you can tell me, you know. I will help you.”

Only your omega was actually mean to me in the last couple of months, he thinks but of course doesn’t say it out loud. “Okay, thank you, Jeongguk.”

With the last nod, he turns around and goes under the showers, before finally entering the pool.

Jeongguk doesn’t stick around. Taehyung sees him swimming back and forth for the most of the time he’s there but he tries not to pay too much attention to the alpha. Really, really tries.

He chooses to do his lengths slowly, sometimes just floating around and relaxing, letting his body, which is doing hard work on a daily basis, rest. A male omega pregnancy is much more draining than a female one and while all omegas are biologically built to create life, for some reason nature decided to make it harder for males. They need to keep in shape at all times, the painful symptoms are much more severe, the labour risks much higher. Soon he will have to sign up for professional massages once a week or so, because exercises can do only this much for his aching body. And he’s only halfway through the pregnancy. He doesn’t want to think what it’s going to be like when he enters the third trimester.

He relaxes against the pool wall after another few lengths. He caresses his belly lovingly and smiles. Yes, it’s hard but it’s all gonna be worth it. Plus, it’s not all that bad. It could be worse. When he listens to other male omegas at his birth or yoga class, some are going through literal hell.

“Are you okay?”

He looks up and sees a lifeguard approaching him.

“Yes, just resting.” He smiles politely. He’s seen that the alpha keeps an eye on him, it wasn’t weird, after all it’s only him and Jeongguk in the pool.

“We have swimming classes for pregnant omegas during weekends if you’d be interested. Besides regular swimming they also do some aqua aerobics,” the lifeguard beams and Taehyung can’t help but check him out a bit when he goes back to his post.

He’s lean like most swimmers are, muscles nicely defined and the swimming shorts he’s wearing doesn’t leave much to imagination. He was close to Taehyung, he could tell. His back is nice too, broad shoulders, slim waist, a textbook alpha but not over-muscular as they very often tend to be.

Taehyung shakes his head. He doesn’t have time for alphas.

He climbs out of the pool and goes to the changing room. His time is almost up and he still needs to blow his hair dry as he walked here and needs to walk back. It might be a warm day but he still needs to be careful. Taehyung turns around to wave goodbye to Jeongguk but the alpha keeps swimming, so, a bit disappointed, he goes to take a shower.

He’s already dressed and finished drying his hair when Jeongguk enters the changing room with the towel wrapped around his hips. And there’s nothing Taehyung wouldn’t see before but the image is much more erotic right now. The alpha is drying his hair with another towel, switching the cloth from one hand to the other, completely missing some of the wet strands stuck to his forehead.

Taehyung gulps but can’t take his eyes off of him.

“Taehyung?”

It brings the omega out of his reverie. With the increasing frequency of him spacing out, he’s scared Jeongguk will start to question his mental stability. He looks at Taehyung expectantly but if he spoke before, Taehyung has no idea what was that about. “Huh?”

“How are you getting home?” The alpha smirks, amused.

“I walk,” he shrugs. “It’s so close to our building I wanted to have a little warm up before swimming.”

“I’ll drive you back,” Jeongguk says and resumes towel-drying his hair.

“There’s no need, really,” Taehyung tries to protest but he already anticipates his own defeat. 

“Your hair is wet, you might get sick.” The alpha points out and Taehyung almost melts on the spot. He’s too carrying for Taehyung’s poor heart’s sake.

“I’ve literally just dried them. I’ll be okay, don’t worry. It’s really warm outside today. Perfect for a walk.”

“Still, I’ll be at ease if you let me drive you home. Please?”

Taehyung looks at him for a minute. But who is he kidding? With those big, sparkling eyes? Jeongguk could probably convince Taehyung to eat raisins. That little mole under his bottom lip he just noticed doesn’t help either. It’s very persuasive. He sighs. “Okay.”

But the moment he opens the passenger door he regrets his decision instantly.

A seat belt adapter.

There’s a seat belt adapter for pregnant omegas on a passenger seat.

Wonyoung is pregnant.

The mere thought makes Taehyung a bit sick. Are there going to be two of Jeongguk’s pups in their building by the end of the year? One born by his omega and one by a random neighbour that needed a doctor and a syringe to get pregnant in the first place. How fucked up is that?

He looks at the adapter again. He knows this model. There are exactly the same ones in his, Yoongi’s and Jimin’s cars. The best one on the market, according to his head alpha. 

But what else to expect. For sure Jeongguk provides the best for his pup.

Taehyung gulps and closes the door back. Jeongguk looks at him above the roof of the car with a questioning gaze.

“You know what, I actually really want to walk. Thank you for the offer though.” The writer smiles and silently prays that it doesn't look like a grimace.

“What?” He can hear that the alpha is surprised but he doesn’t see his face anymore. He’s already turned around and is walking away.

He doesn’t walk far before Jeongguk stands in front of him. “Taehyung? I promise it won’t happen again, you and bunny are completely safe with me.”

This time it’s omega’s turn to be taken off guard. He blinks at Jeongguk slowly. “What?”

“Nothing will happen to any of you, I swear,” he leads Taehyung back to the car and Taehyung can’t help but follow him, confused. The alpha opens the passenger door. “I don’t know what kind of seat belt adapter you are using but I’ve read this one is great and it has amazing reviews, six stars out of five apparently.”

Taehyung’s heart aches seeing Jeongguk’s passionate eyes and gestures. He’s going to be a great father, so caring and serious about the ultimate safety of his pup. The pleading on the alpha’s face makes Taehyung want to grant him any wish but he’s still torn. “I don’t think Wonyoung would appreciate it if I used her adapter. Pregnant omegas get very possessive.”

“Huh?” Jeongguk looks at him with a frown. “Wonyoung isn’t pregnant.”

“Then why did you-“ he doesn’t finish because Jeongguk gets furiously red and massages his neck awkwardly.

“After that one incident, I-“ he breathes out. “I got really scared. And we keep meeting around and we are neighbours, so I assumed there might be more instances where I’d drive you home. And I didn’t want to risk that situation happening ever again. Ever.” He finishes slightly embarrassed but his tone is firm and Taehyung thinks he’s going to kiss the alpha if he doesn’t stop.

“That’s… Jeongguk, tha-that’s really w-wonderful of you, I don’t- I don’t know what to say,” Taehyung stutters a bit but he’s really overwhelmed right now. He doesn’t want to think if it’s appropriate or not, he just wants to appreciate a thoughtful gesture. “Thank you.”

“Will you please let me drive you home?”

There are those pleading eyes back but Taehyung doesn’t need to be convinced anymore. He just nods and gets inside. Jeongguk hesitates a bit at the door but after a few seconds he closes them and goes around the car.

They leave the parking lot in silence and Taehyung lets himself be wrapped by the alpha’s scent. It’s outrageous how much he missed it. He can’t get attached, he keeps telling himself and his omega, but he can’t help the feeling of comfort and security that downs upon him whenever he gets in a close proximity to that patchouli fragrance.

The last time he was surrounded by it was…

Shit. Taehyung’s heart starts to beat very fast and he can smell how his scent changes.

“Tae? Are you okay?” Jeongguk throws him a concerned look and the omega knows he has to address the recent events. No matter how much he doesn’t want to.

“Jeongguk,” he stops and swallows heavily. “I- I am so, so, so sorry about what happened last week. I have no words to explain myself, it was unacceptable and I feel awful how I basically harassed you that day. I am so ashamed and embarrassed, I hope you know I would never do such a thing if I was in the right state of mind.”

“Hey, it's okay. No need to be embarrassed,” Jeongguk assures him sweetly. Taehyung would really prefer him to stop being so kind. “Those sudden attacks of arousal are completely normal during pregnancy. I just happened to be there so I affected you a bit as an alpha, it happens. And you definitely did not harass me, you didn’t even touch me. So please, don’t beat yourself up about it.”

Yeah. That encounter was the only reason I got so worked up.

“Someone did his research,” he teases instead and the blush on the alpha’s cheeks is absolutely endearing. 

“I was just curious,” he mumbles. “Not about pregnancy horniness!” He waves his hand and widens his eyes in horror. “But I read a bit about male omega pregnancy.”

“Why?” Taehyung can’t help but ask.

Jeongguk doesn’t answer immediately. He seems to be deep in thought and Taehyung almost starts believing he’s not going to get his answer when the alpha finally speaks. “I… I think I realised how little I know about pregnancy in general. And because, as I said before, we run into each other often, I'd like to know how to act if anything happens when I’m around. And we know it’s more likely than not,” he rolls his eyes and Taehyung chuckles quietly. “Even the first time we met, you got those round ligament pain and I had no idea what to do.”

How does he even remember that term? If there was a title for the most caring person it’d definitely belong to Jeongguk. He’s so considerate and kind and all that towards the stranger. 

“You are doing a great job whenever something happens, don’t worry,” Taehyung assures him and it seems to make the alpha feel a bit better. He’s not sure if he should say that but anyway he adds, “I feel very safe with you.”

The bunny smile he receives in return is worth all the shame he felt the last few days.

The rest of the week till Friday is filled with work for Taehyung. He’s determined to have the first draft of his book ready before the start of the third trimester so he still has time to polish it before giving birth and hopefully he won’t have to worry about anything when bunny makes her appearance.

On Friday evening he gets ready and before driving to the pub where he’s going to meet with his friends, he takes Yeontan for a walk. He prepares a pee pad in the bathroom just in case anyway, Tannie doesn’t usually cause potty problems but he is not sure how long they are going to stay out and as a result what time is he going to wake up tomorrow, so it’s a needed precaution to not make his little cutie suffer from a full bladder.

He parks in front of 134340 right on time and rushes inside the bar. It kinda feels like coming home as this is the place he and Jimin spent most of the weekends during their university years. When adult life creeped on them they started to come here less and less but if they go out, it’s always to 134340. 

Jimin and Seokjin are already seated at one of the tables but it seems like they also just arrived so Taehyung collects their orders and goes to the bar to buy the first round of drinks.

It feels good to be out, in a pub, surrounded by people of different ages, enjoying themselves and celebrating the start of the weekend. The three omegas raise a toast for just a half of pregnancy left to greet Taehyung’s bunny and Seokjin’s rascal.

“Have you decided on baby names yet?” Jimin asks, sipping on his drink. He’s the only one who can actually drink alcohol and Taehyung can’t wait for a tipsy Jiminie. He’s one of Taehyung’s favourites.

“We are leaning towards Dojoon or Seokhwan but we are still not sure.”

“I’m still thinking but I’ve pretty much made a choice.” Taehyung smiles.

“I think no matter what you call her, we’ll forever call her bunny anyway.”

“Well, I can’t exactly put ‘Bunny’ into her documents.”

The three chuckle and Jimin nods at him. “So what is it?”

“Well, I was thinking about Haebaragi at first, because you know how much I love sunflowers.” His packmate blinks in acknowledgement. “But it doesn’t feel right, you know? It’s too long and sounded off when I tried to address her using this name. And I think it would stand out too much and she could be teased about it. Then I thought about Molan but it was also weird. So I settled for Nari.”

“I like Nari, it’s really cute. And you love lilies, too!”

“I agree, Haebaragi sounds like a name for an old person,” Jin teases but Taehyung has to admit he’s right. Besides, when he thought about Nari it felt like a perfect choice. As if the name was meant for her.

“Anyway, I’m going to come up with some back up names in case she is born and I decide it doesn’t suit her. I doubt it’s gonna happen but it’s better to be prepared.”

“Okay, so while we’re waiting for Dojoon, slash, Seokhwan and Nari to be born - Taehyungie,” Jimin gives him an amused look. “Tell us more about your solo session, featuring alpha daddy.”

Right now Taehyung could really use a proper drink. Or a change of friends. Both sound good.

After a lot of coaxing, groans of shame and a new set of cocktails placed in front of them, Taehyung finally breaks and tells them about his encounter with Jeongguk last week. And after a bit more of coaxing, also about fantasies he indulged himself with later.

Of course, as expected, his friends have a big laugh about it, not caring about Taehyung’s embarrassment and whining.

“This is hilarious,” Seokjin wipes away a tear that escaped his eyes from laughing too much, while Jimin comes back with new drinks. “But I have to say, the guy is fucking good. He escorted you and didn’t even try anything. Wow. I smelled you when you bolted out from class and it was strong, I can’t imagine how much more intense it had to be when you met him.”

“That was a disaster, I thought he moved out after that.”

“What?!”

So he tells them about the scenarios he created when he saw the alpha packing a suitcase, his dog and himself in the car to not return for the whole weekend. It brings two omegas into an even more hysterical state and Jimin almost falls down from the chair. 

Taehyung must admit that it is quite funny. After talking with Jeongguk on the way back from the swimming pool, he made sort of peace with what happened, seeing that the alpha is not offended or disgusted by him, and now he is able to see the more hilarious side of the situation.

“Do I waddle around?” Taehyung asks suddenly, breaking his friends out of their laughing fit.

“Hmmm, sometimes?” Jimin thinks, sipping half of his cosmopolitan in one go. That does not bode well for the omega but Taehyung doesn’t even try to stop him. They have a fun night out and if that means taking care of Jimin throwing up in pink, he’s fine with it. At the end of the day, he will deliver him to his mate and Yoongi will have to deal with a worse side of Jimin - the hangover Jiminie. “Usually when you are in a rush or tired. Why?”

“Because Jeongguk said that night that me and Yeontan waddle around,” he pouts. “It’s because I know I shouldn’t run and I can only walk fast!”

“We know Taehyungie, we know,” Seokjin caresses his arm soothingly. “I’m sure he’s meant it in an endearing way. I waddle around too, if that makes you feel better.”

“It actually does, thanks.”

“So, have you met Jeongguk again after that?”

He nods and recounts the swimming pool meeting. The two omegas are shocked just like Taehyung was, hearing about the seat belt adapter and that it was bought for him.

“Wow, Taehyungie, I don’t know what to say. Or even think about it,” Jimin downs the rest of his cocktail but doesn’t get up to get a new one.

“Seconded. He sounds really committed, I am not sure if it's a good or a bad thing. I mean, it would be great if-”

“If he didn’t have an omega, yeah, I know,” Taehyung sighs and finishes his drink as well. “I think he genuinely cares, you know? Just like Jimin and Yoongi or you care about me.”

“Yes, but they are your pack and I am your friend. He is your neighbour.”

“But at the same time he’s not really imposing,” Jimin points out. “He doesn’t seek you out or cross any boundaries, at least I don’t think so from what you told us. Plus, besides the adapter he didn’t invest in anything. And I can understand that the almost-accident triggered some anxiety in him, he’s an alpha, his instincts must’ve gone crazy. That one time we met him in front of your apartment it was also because he got worried by your scent.”

“I know, he’s just…” Taehyung groans and hides his face in hands. “He’s perfect you know?”

“Yeah, we figured that out.”

“But unavailable.”

“For now…”

“No,” he cuts. “We’re not going to go this way. I’m not going to feed myself and my omega with false hope, just to end up disappointed in the end. We’ll only get more and more emotional going forward and I can’t afford healing a broken heart and being a new single parent.”

“Fair enough,” Jimin smiles sadly. “But I think you might be surprised.”

“If you’re right, then we’ll see. For now, it’s all definitely out of reach.”

Before they can say anything more, Taehyung feels a light tap on his shoulder. He turns around and is faced with a handsome black haired alpha with the darkest eyes he’s ever seen. The stranger smiles at him and it makes him even more handsome if possible. “Hi.”

“Hello,” he answers politely.

“I think you are the most stunning person I’ve ever seen. Could I buy you a drink?” the alpha asks and Taehyung blinks surprised. 

“I-”

“Of course you can buy him a drink,” Jimin interjects with a bright smile. “Just make sure it’s non-alcoholic.”

“Sure, no problem, what are you drinking?”

“A strawberry mojito, please. Virgin of course.”

“On my way.” The alpha winks and leaves to the bar.

Taehyung turns back to his friends still shocked and both of them sport similar grins.

“Damn, Taehyungie, pregnant and still catching eyes. It’s a wonder you don’t wear a mating bite yet.” Jimin looks at Seokjin. “He’s always been very popular.”

“It doesn’t surprise me at all.”

The alpha returns then with four cocktails.

“Strawberry virgin mojitos, for beautiful gentlemen. Do you mind if I join you?”

“Of course not, please sit.” Taehyung gestures at the chair between him and Jimin.

“Thank you. I’m Mingyu.” He extends his hand and Taehyung grabs it a bit shyly.

“Taehyung. And this is Jimin and Seokjin.”

“Nice to meet you, Mingyu. So, are you here alone?” Jin asks, while replacing his empty glass with a new drink.

“No, I’m with my friends but I finally gathered courage to come and talk to you,” he turns toward Taehyung and the omega can feel himself blush instantly.

“Well, you flatter me a lot, Mingyu, thank-”

“Mingyu, what are you doing?”

The four of them turn towards a scowling alpha who’s just approached their table.

“Guk! Go back to the guys, I will stay here a bit and talk with these nice men.” Mingyu smiles at his friend and makes a very suggestive get-lost face.

Jeongguk doesn’t seem impressed. He only frowns more and looks at Taehyung. “Hi, Tae.”

“Hi, Jeongguk,” the omega answers nervously, confused.

“I am so happy right now,” Jimin sighs and takes a sip of his drink.

“Do you know each other?” Now Mingyu also frowns but Jeongguk doesn’t pay him any attention.

“Could me and our other friends sit with you as well?” he asks, looking at the omegas and all three of them nod; Taehyung still shocked, Seokjin and Jimin absolutely delighted.

Jeongguk turns around and gestures at the table at the other side of the pub, where four other men sit and observe the entire encounter, intrigued. They join them with their own drinks and bring more chairs so they all have a place to sit. Jeongguk, much to Mingyu’s distaste, pushed his chair between Taehyung’s and Mingyu’s.

“So, this is Chan, Eunwoo, Yugyeom and Jaehyun. Guys, this is Tae, Jimin and Seokjin,” Jeongguk introduces all of them with a small slur and three omegas look around curiously, while the four newcomers sport similar, amused smirks. “And to answer your question, Mingyu, yes we do know each other.”

Jeongguk frowns again and one of the guys, Taehyung thinks it’s Yugyeom, snorts into his glass but doesn’t say anything.

“I got that, thanks,” Mingyu sounds really annoyed at this point. “I still don’t understand why you felt the need to join us. We are all squeezed right now and we didn’t need your drunk ass here.”

“I am not drunk!” Jeongguk protests immediately. “Maybe slightly tipsy but that’s it.”

“JK, you wanted to go home after coming back from the bathroom.”

“Well, I changed my mind. Let’s drink some more!” He turns to the bartender and raises his hand. The man behind the counter nods and grabs a nearby bottle. “Bambam is on his way.”

“Great,” Mingyu says through gritted teeth. He leans a bit forward to see Taehyung better and smiles. “Sorry for that, I didn’t expect them to follow me.” He throws Jeongguk an irritated look.

“Don’t worry, I don’t mind,” Taehyung assures and Jeongguk beams at him.

The bartender brings them the whole tray of shots, two more virgin mojitos and a cosmopolitan. The alphas grab their glasses and Jimin ignores his mojito brought by Mingyu, immediately reaching for the cosmopolitan instead.

“Cheers,” Chan exclaims happily. “For this lovely meeting!”

The six of them down their shots and the omegas sip their drinks. Lovely meeting indeed.

“So, Guk, how do you and Taehyung know each other?” Eunwoo asks with a sly smile, leaning forward with his elbows on the table and his face cupped in his hands.

“Well, Tae is the omega I told you about that chose my guys to have a pup.”

“Oh my, really? I’d never guess,” Jaehyun brings a hand to his chest in a mock bewilderment.

Chan, Yugyeom and Eunwoo burst out laughing and Mingyu looks at Jeongguk in shock.

“This is the Taehyung?” He drinks another shot. “Fuck. Did you seriously get the most gorgeous omega I’ve ever seen pregnant?”

“Of course he did. He’s JK,” Jaehyun says and laughs again with the rest of his friends group.

“Technically, he didn’t get me pregnant,” Taehyung interjects amused. “Just one of his guys did.”

This time the entire table chuckles and Jeongguk smiles at him in that cute bunny manner of his. 

It feels kinda surreal, meeting Jeongguk with his friends in Taehyung’s favourite pub, drinking all together and joking around. What is this? They run into each other a lot but he’d never expect it will come to this.

“So, how were you enjoying your evening before we so rudely interrupted you?” Eunwoo asks after the alphas down another shot.

“Just an omega night out, you didn’t interrupt anything, no worries.” Seokjin waves his hand dismissively. “We are very happy you joined us. I’m having so much fun.”

“Us too, believe me.”

“We are actually also celebrating reaching the halfway mark of a journey to meet pups,” Jimin adds and Jeongguk looks at Taehyung.

“Oh my Luna! That’s right, because it's a carrot week!” He turns to his friends who observe him with amused smiles. “And it’s like the best week because she’s bunny! Do you get it? Carrots and bunny!”

Everyone at the table laughs at his drunk excitement and Taehyung can’t help the heart eyes he stares at the alpha with. He’s so endearing, why does he have to have an omega already? It’s not fair that they haven’t met before. If that happened just a few years, maybe months, earlier, Taehyung’s life could be 180 degrees different right now.

“Yes, Guk, we get it,” Chan chuckles and he puts a bottle of water in front of him. “Drink up, buddy.”

“And what are you doing here? Having an alpha night out too?”

“Actually,” Yugyeom throws a cautious gaze at his friends, who nod, so he continues, “We are kinda getting drunk after a breakup.”

“Basically we are celebrating too,” Mingyu adds and the other alphas roll their eyes.

“It’s not exactly celebrating-”

“I am celebrating!”

“Because you’ve never liked Wonyoung,” Jeongguk looks at his friend who only shrugs. “She didn’t like you too,” he snorts and takes a gulp of his water.

The omegas exchange bewildered looks. Jimin mouths ‘OH MY LUNA!’ to them and Taehyung must admit that this is exactly what his brain is screaming right now.

“I know, it was mutual hatred we both acknowledged. I just don’t understand why the rest of you liked her,” Mingyu scoffs.

“She wasn’t bad. Just… didn’t match our vibe much,” Eunwoo explains carefully.

“That’s a very diplomatic way to describe it but okay.”

Taehyung’s turns to his neighbour, still shocked. “I’m sorry, Jeongguk. How are you feeling?”

“Not bad,” he nods in thought. “It’s been coming for quite a long time so it’s not like I’m surprised or super hurt. It’s just never nice to end a relationship.”

“Of course not,” Jimin chimes in. “But if we’re drinking to forget, less talking about her and more drinking.”

So they drink.

Taehyung and Seokjin observe with amusement how their companions get progressively more and more drunk, to the point that an hour later Jeongguk is dozing off on Taehyung’s shoulder, Jimin, Mingyu and Chan decide do sing an impromptu karaoke and Yugyeom, Eunwoo and Jaehyun just blabber some nonsense between themselves.

The two pregnant omegas mutually agree it’s time to go home when Jimin announces he’s about to throw up.

Taehyung tries to wake Jeongguk up by delicately stroking his arm and the alpha jerks up surprised and barely awake. His friends help to get him outside, while the omegas take Jimin for a quick detour to the bathroom so he can empty his stomach before Taehyung drives him home. As anticipated, he throws up in pink.

On their way out, they stop at the bar to pay just to find out their bill was settled, so they leave to find the alphas outside trying to decide who is the most sober to be in charge of taking Jeongguk home.

“I can give him a ride,” Taehyung offers and everyone looks at him. “We live in the same building, so it’s not a problem. I just need to take this little prince home first.” He nods in Jimin’s direction.

“Nooo, Taehyungie, I can’t walk on my own and you can’t carry me, you are carrying bunny already,” Jeongguk whines and throws one arm around the omega’s shoulder. He rests his head against Taehyung’s and sighs, closing his eyes again. “But it’s so nice you are offering. You are so sweet.”

Taehyung can feel himself blushing and clears his throat. “We will figure something out.”

“I will go and help you with both of them,” Chan offers then and the omega smiles at him in gratitude. “I will just crush at JK’s.”

“Okay, so it’s settled. I’m ordering Kakao T for the rest of us,” Jaehyun decides, taking out his phone.

In the end, Seokjin ends up taking Yugyeom with him, as his apartment is on his way. They say their goodbyes and Eunwoo helps Chan put Jeongguk in a backseat, while Mingyu helps Jimin sit in the back on the other side.

Taehyung and Chan get in the car too, when a cab for the three alphas arrives. They are fastening their seat belts when suddenly Jeongguk sticks his head between the front seats, not even opening his eyes.

“Do you have an adapter, Taehyungie?” he asks in a slur and Taehyung exchanges amused looks with Chan.

“Yes, it’s my car Jeongguk, don’t worry.”

“So bunny’s safe?” he makes sure and the omega can’t help but laugh quietly and caress the alpha’s hair.

“She’s safe, I promise.”

“Good.”

He nods and leans back. Not even a minute later they can hear a snoring that joins Jimin’s heavy breathing. 

They get the omega to his house in a record time. The streets are surprisingly empty for a Friday night but Taehyung’s not going to complain. He is tired already and feels thankful he thought about leaving the pee pads for Yeontan because by the time he gets home he’ll be exhausted and tomorrow he’s going to sleep in.

When he parks in front of the pack house, Yoongi already waits outside. Taehyung sent him a text before he started to drive, so the alpha was prepared for a state his omega is in on his way to him. He immediately jogs to the car and takes Jimin out, only thanking Taehyung and shooting surprised looks at the two alphas, lingering a bit more on the passed out Jeongguk. He carries his mate to the house and when they are safely inside, Taehyung starts driving.

The last part of the ride thankfully takes less than twenty minutes, so soon enough he leaves the two alphas at Jeongguk’s door and gets to his own apartment. Yeontan greets him grumpily and not even waiting for his owner to take off the shoes, he goes back to his little bed.

Very unwillingly Taehyung takes a shower and applies the anti-stretch mark lotion on his belly, this one time leaving out the rest of his body as he’s too tired for his full bedtime routine.

He climbs into his nest and falls asleep thinking about how unexpected this evening turned out to be.

Chapter Text

When Taehyung wakes up on Saturday it’s almost noon and still slightly asleep he gets to the kitchen to cook a hangover soup. When it’s already simmering on a low heat, he realises he doesn’t actually need it and he prepares it with a probably very suffering alpha at the back of his mind. For the whole duration of cleaning the bathroom, taking a shower and getting dressed, he fights with his thoughts if he should go and give the soup to Jeongguk.

His omega is practically begging him to. He prepared the food for him after all, the alpha needs the cure for a surely not very pleasant morning and they need to take care of him.

Because now we can.

No we can’t, Taehyung scolds himself. Just because Jeongguk is not in a relationship anymore it doesn’t mean he is looking to dive into a new romance right away. With a pregnant omega out of all people.

“Don’t be ridiculous,” he murmurs to himself while packing the pot of soup in the thermo bag.

He could bring upstairs two containers for the two alphas, but in the end he decides against it. He’s not like this. To jump at Jeongguk the moment he gets out of the relationship, to bring homemade food and tend to him as if he was his alpha. As if they were courting. It’s not good for his heart.

So he just grabs Yeontan and the pot and leaves the house. If you don’t know how to solve the problem - run away from it. 

He drives to the pack house because there is one person that might need a hangover soup just as much as Jeongguk does and Taehyung stubbornly ignores his omega whining about Jimin having a mate to nurture him.

When he arrives, before leaving the car, he orders the second best hangover cure, right after the homemade soup, for the two friends back in his building. McDonalds and beer.

He pretends it’s a thank you for paying the bill last night. 

Taehyung and Yeontan spend the whole day in the pack house, helping Yoongi take care of moody Jimin. Which basically means Yoongi tends to all of his mate’s needs and the other two snuggle and nest with him in the living room. 

Only in the late evening Jimin starts to feel good enough to tell Yoongi all the events of last night. The alpha doesn’t seem as happy as his omega hearing the news about Jeongguk breaking up with Wonyoung. He only quirks his left brow and doesn’t comment whatsoever. Taehyung knows there’s a parent talk coming his way but he’s not stupid enough to ask and listen to it now.

He spends the rest of the weekend trying not to think about Jeongguk. The whole Sunday he just chills on a couch, leaving only for his yoga class and walks with Yeontan. They were supposed to go shopping with Seokjin but his brother had a family emergency, so he and Namjoon had to take care of his nephews.

That’s why they end up in the shopping centre on the Monday afternoon after their birth class.

“Just come out already!” Seokjin yells in frustration, looking at his baby bump. “I’m so tired, Taehyungie, and it’s not even the third trimester. We are at papaya week, papaya, do you know how long it will take us to get to the watermelon state?”

“I am aware,” Taehyung murmurs absentmindedly, looking through the bras in a pregnancy section.

He was hoping he wouldn't have this problem, buying pregnancy bras, as a male omega. Not everyone produces milk and even though in that case their breasts also swell, it’s not that bothersome. But here he is. With cotton pads attached to his boobs with plasters, because he started to leak. And of course, it’s great he’d get to experience breastfeeding and strengthen his bond with bunny this way but male omegas already have it hard. Do they really need to also worry about damp patches? He will not even produce that much to be sufficient to feed his pup properly and she will be mainly formula fed.

“Why can't alphas be pregnant?” Seokjin stands next to him and starts to aggressively move the hangers. “I’d really like to see Joonie deal with all that crap. I bet he’d be done after the first constipation.”

Taehyung snorts. “I wouldn’t have bunny in the first place if it was alphas who got pregnant.”

“Touche. We can’t have that. My rascal needs his bride.”

After a long search they finally find bras that fit them. They were planning to buy some new shoes as well but by the time they reach a shoe section, Taehyung feels like his feet are going to kill him. It’s like this day just can’t give him a break. First leaking breasts, now sore feet. He ends up apologising to Seokjin and leaving him for further shopping alone.

Back at home, he scrolls through his phone to find something appealing to order for dinner as he’s too tired to stand in the kitchen, but it seems like bunny is picky today and she keeps giving Taehyung weird sensations and in result makes him lose his appetite whatsoever. He throws the phone away on a couch and looks at his baby bump disappointed.

“Maybe Seokjin is right, maybe alphas should be the ones dealing with this,” he murmurs quietly, caressing the belly in an attempt to calm down his daughter. “Maybe I should call your uncle Yoongi, hm? He’d for sure drop everything and come cook us something if he heard you’re being an insufferable pain in the ass.”

He feels another jab directed somewhere at his ribs and he rolls his eyes. It seems like she’s got the attitude from her uncle Jimin.

The sound of the doorbell brings Yeontan out of his nap and the dog runs to the door yelling furiously at the sleep disruptor. The omega gets up from the couch unwillingly but when he opens the door, he forgets his sore feet for a moment.

“Hi,” Jeongguk smiles at him shyly.

He looks… soft. There’s no other way to describe it. His hair is left loose and fluffy, he wears a simple t-shirt and sweatpants but Taehyung could swear it’s the most attractive he’s ever seen him. Including that sweat dripping sex fantasy he encountered a few weeks ago. Even his Iron Man slippers complete this perfect, boyfriend look.

“Hello?”

“Sorry for coming here like this without a notice but,” he hesitates. “Uh, first of all I don’t have your number and I don’t think Yoongi-ssi would give it to me if I asked. And second, I was cooking.”

Taehyung blinks at him and waits for the alpha to continue but it seems like he deems his message to be clear and now is waiting for Taehyung’s reaction.

“Okay? Well, enjoy your meal?”

“Oh, shit, right, sorry. I made way too much food, would you like to eat with me?”

The way the alpha blushes is adorable. It matches his overall sweet appearance and Taehyung melts a bit.

“I don’t want to make a problem for you…”

“No, no, no! I’m inviting you, aren’t I? I’d really like to share, it’s honestly too much food for one person.”

Taehyung feels like he should protest a bit more. Jeongguk could simply eat it tomorrow, take a nice lunch box to work, besides his… well. His omega is not a problem anymore.

“Okay, thank you. I’d love to eat with you.”

“Hello, Bamie!” Taehyung greets the excited dog at the door.

“Bam, don’t jump,” Jeongguk scolds him and makes a gesture with his hand, making the doberman sit. “You have to be careful around Tae and bunny, we need to take care of them.”

He leaves the guest in the entrance hall and moves to the kitchen. Taehyung follows him, looking around with curiosity. The flat layout is exactly the same as his, as Jeongguk lives right above him, but their interiors couldn’t be more different. Where Taehyung’s apartment is bright and warm, Jeongguk’s is full of black, greys and emanates elegance. It’s very neat, no unfolded blankets thrown over the backrest of the sofa, no loose papers or dirty mugs on a coffee table. The only things that are out of order are dog toys scattered around the living room.

It doesn't lack the personal touch though. Taehyung notices a very modest nest on a chaise part of the sofa, before he stands in front of the wall filled with dozens of photos, all hung in black frames, different sizes but still creating unstructured order.

He can recognize some people in the photos standing beside Jeongguk. Most pictures are with the alphas Taehyung met in 134340 on Friday and with someone who after a third picture Taehyung recognises as the bartender in 134340 . 

And the photos show how active the man is. He’s there skiing, snowboarding, surfing, kitesurfing, skateboarding, cycling, rock climbing, even bungee jumping and hanging upside down above some abyss but also playing darts, beer pong and bowling. On some Jeongguk looks like a cute teenager and on others he’s already a grown man, as handsome as Taehyung knows him.

Beside his friends, there are two men who show up in a lot of photos, mostly hugging Jeongguk or him hugging them. In one photo Jeongguk hugs the smaller man, who stands in front of him, the alpha beaming at the camera with his chin resting on the top of the man’s head. The second unfamiliar man, as tall as Jeongguk but broader than him, has his arm around Jeongguk’s shoulders, looking at the other two with a soft smile.

“Those are my dads.”

Taehyung jumps startled, not noticing that Jeongguk joined him in front of the photo wall. The alpha looks at the picture with a similar small smile to the one on the face of the taller of his fathers.

“This is my omega dad, Jiwon,” he points at the man Jeongguk in the photo is hugging. The two sport the same bunny smile. How did he inherit smiles from both of his parents? It’s too sweet. “And this is my alpha appa Junseo. They live in Busan, so I don’t see them as often as I’d wish to but I visited them the other weekend.”

The omega purses his lips. Of course he was visiting his dads back then. While Taehyung was freaking out that his neighbour is moving out, Jeongguk was just being a good son.

“My parents live in Daegu but I don’t have contact with them anymore.” He can feel Jeongguk’s eyes on him. “My father is an alpha and my mother is a beta. It was the classic case of disappointment that your kid, a son, presented as an omega.”

The alpha frowns. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. I made my peace with how things are a long time ago. I have a real pack now, I don’t need my parents to have a complete family.”

Jeongguk nods, his expression thoughtful. “It’s good you moved on. You deserve to be appreciated for who you are. Though it’s hard for me to imagine how they could not accept you being you. It’s the most fundamental duty of a parent.”

“Not everyone is as lucky as you are.” Taehyung smiles and points at the photo where a bit younger Jeongguk in a graduation toga and cap is being squished between his fathers. “It’s clear they love you very much.”

“Yeah, they are my biggest supporters and cheerleaders, always were. If I ever become half as good of a parent as they are, I will be satisfied with myself.”

Taehyung looks at the alpha out of the corner of his eye. He’s focused on the photos and seems to be going through some memory lane. He snaps out of it when the timer rings in the kitchen.

“The dinner is ready, come on.”

They sit at the table and Taehyung looks at the food with wide eyes. It’s not too much for one person, as the alpha said before. It’s too much for their whole building. The last time he saw this amount of dishes was when they were throwing a feast before Hoseok’s departure to the States. They prepared all of the beta’s favourite Korean dishes, so it really was a lot.

“Jeongguk, are you insane? How on earth were you planning to eat all of this on your own?”

“I couldn’t decide what I felt like so I just… made everything.”

“You could feed a small country with this.”

“Stop!” the alpha whines with laughter, putting together the plate for Taehyung. Happiness looks good on him, those crinkled eyes and bunny teeth full on display are quickly becoming one of Taehyung’s favourite views. “I didn’t realise I’m preparing so much until it was too late. I was stressed after work and cooking relaxes me.”

“What happened?”

“Nothing really specific. We’re working on this new game but it’s not going according to plan. You know, the regular, some delays and interns fucking up. Do you mind if I have a beer?”

“Of course not, drink whatever you want.”

The alpha goes to the fridge and brings one can of beer and three different juices, which he strategically places close to Taehyung.

“When I hear about struggles of working with other people I am very happy about the career choice I made.”

Jeongguk laughs out loud at the comment, covering his mouth with one hand. “Can’t blame you, really. I sometimes wish to be one of those stereotypical IT guys who just sits by himself, the only companion being the code he’s currently working on.”

“You already look the part,” Taehyung jokes and the alpha sends him an offended look. “I meant the slippers, the stereotypical IT guy is also a geek.”

“Hey, Iron Man is cool!”

“I never said he isn’t, though I’m more of a Dr Strange guy.”

“I see, the classic Marvel superheroes are too mainstream for you?” Jeongguk quirks a brow and Taehyung needs to suppress a chuckle.

“Exactly, I need to keep up with my ‘I’m different than other guys’ image.”

“Are you also taking books to concerts and hate all Gryffindors and Slytherins?”

“Well, they think they are the only relevant houses so to hell with them,” he gives the alpha a once-over. “You’re a Gryffndor, aren’t you?”

“A proud one!” The alpha squares his shoulders as if ready to fight but Taehyung doesn’t fall for it.

“You’d probably be a Quidditch captain too. Classic. I bet you were playing all sports in school and were captain of at least one team at the time.” The silence is enough of an answer for Taehyung. “What did you play?”

“Volleyball mostly and yes, I was a captain till the end of college. But I also played basketball and hockey in high school.”

“Jesus, where did you get energy for all of that?” The mere thinking about all those activities makes Taehyung tired. He can’t imagine keeping up with a schedule like this, on top of regular academic responsibilities.

“And after school I was training Taekwondo in primary school and later I switched to Karate.” Jeongguk adds and Taehyung just gapes for a second.

“Who are you?”

“I’m JK.” The alpha winks while standing up to go to the fridge.

“That was so bad,” Taehyung laughs and is just glad that his host is facing away from him, because he is not sure if he’d be able to contain his heart-eyes. “Anyway, your school years might be over but I can see you are still overactive. Some of those photos on the wall are really impressive.”

“I have friends who share my passions, so there’s always someone who proposes new trips and challenges.” Jeongguk sits back at the table with a bottle of water. “Would you like something else to drink?”

“No, no, thank you. The juices are good.” Taehyung refuses politely and finally asks the question that got stuck in his head since he saw that photo wall for the first time. “Which one of your adventures is your favourite?”

“It’s hard to decide.” Jeongguk pouts in thought. Would it be too weird if Taehyung kissed him now? It would be weird. “I go skiing and snowboarding every year because I love it, same with kitesurfing, while I was on Nevis swing only once when me and the guys went to New Zealand after our graduation but it was insane.”

“Is it the one where you were hanging upside down?”

“Yeah, they gave us a choice on how to fall and I decided to make it a bit more exciting.”

“Right, because it wouldn't be exciting otherwise,” the omega scoffs and throws him an amused look. “I start to question my donor choice. How do your dads deal with your death wish?”

“I actually got it from my appa,” Jeongguk admits with a laugh and it makes Taehyung’s smile drop a little. So it runs in a family? “He’s done some crazy stuff too, so he’s always excited and wants to hear about things we do with the guys but my dad hates it. I stopped telling him about plans I’m making and now I just tell him afterwards so he can’t create tragic scenarios in his head. It didn’t change even when I got older so I try to minimise stress for him. He loves that I'm living my life to the fullest but he’d prefer if it consisted more of cycling than parachuting.”

“Understandable, I feel so sorry for him.”

“It’s okay, I am not as crazy anymore, really. I think I jumped and flew from everywhere I could so I’m fine with sticking to normal, boring sports now.”

“Wow, again, who the hell are you?”

Taehyung makes a face, making Jeongguk giggle again. He caresses his baby bump, hoping Nari will get his calm spirit because he’s not sure he’ll be able to keep up if she turns out to be a wild element like her alpha father. Not mentioning that Yoongi would get a heart attack at the first mention of a “jump” or a “climb”.

“It’s not like I’ve been going on adventures every other day or week,” Jeongguk defends himself, adding more broccoli on Taehyung’s plate, when he sees he’s eaten everything. “Most of the time I’m just a geek who gets excited when he buys a new pair of Spiderman socks.”

“That’s adorable.”

“How about you?”

“What about me?”

“What crazy things did you do?”

“I got myself pregnant by an alpha from the catalogue.” Jeongguk pokes him between ribs and he squirms away, ticklish. “No, but in all seriousness, I don’t think I’ve ever done anything even remotely as crazy as the things that you did. I’ve always wanted to try bungee jumping but I’m too terrified of heights, and even more of falling, to do that.”

“You could always jump with someone. It might be easier for you this way.”

“I know but Jimin and Hobi hyung laughed in my face when I asked them once and Yoongi hyung pretended he didn’t hear me.”

“It’s been a long time since I’ve jumped the last time. I could go again, you know.”

The alpha smiles at him lightly and Taehyung thinks he could jump from anywhere if it was with him. He’s way too infatuated with the man and it starts getting a bit dangerous at this point. His omega is already so pleased by being fed by Jeongguk, Taehyung needs to keep attention to his scent and pheromones or his wolf will start to shamelessly seduce the alpha.

He decides to divert a conversation and compliments the food Jeongguk prepared. They keep talking about cooking and food preferences and just as Taehyung suspected, Jeongguk turns out to be a health freak, paying attention to what he eats, not indulging himself with fast food or instant noodles, except special occasions like a hangover. He listens to the alpha with a small smile, while he rambles about recipes he’s tried or he wants to try out, about the articles he reads to expand his knowledge about nutrition. He even used to use the service of professionals, at first they were the ones creating diets for him, considering his above-average physical activity. Now, after years, he has enough knowledge and experience to take care of it himself.

Of course Taehyung is aware that this is the way it’s supposed to be but if you have the cooking skills of a toddler, relying on instant food sometimes is how you have to live if you don’t want to die of starvation.

Jeongguk laughs his ass off in the kitchen when they clean after the dinner and Taehyung tells him how he met Yoongi in a convenience store, where the alpha worked. Taehyung kept buying cup ramyeon there and after a few days, Yoongi refused to sell more to him and instead he gave him his own lunch box.

“Hyung basically adopted me that day,” he recalls fondly. “A few months later he scented me for the first time when I unexpectedly got into preheat when we were at the lake during summer break and I felt like all of the alphas’ attention was on me. I submitted to him and this way we became a pack. So of course Jimin joined by extension with me but they got together very soon.”

“And that man you talked with at the pool?” 

Taehyung doesn’t try to hide his surprise at the question. He didn’t expect the alpha to be that observant. “Hobi hyung has been a pack since the beginning as well. He’s been friends with Yoongi hyung since childhood but they never thought about forming a real pack. I guess they didn’t need it as much, being an alpha and a beta. Yoongi hyung has always been the most protective of me. Sometimes it caused misunderstandings between him and Jimin but one day hyung explained to him that his alpha sees me as a chick incapable of surviving on its own while in Jimin he recognises a resourceful partner.”

Jeongguk laughs out loud. “It can’t be that bad, you live on your own!”

“Yes, but when he looks at me, he still sees that long limbed kid, who everyday ate cup ramyeon from the convenience store.”

“I think it’s nice that you are a real, structured pack. Me and guys are best friends, a chosen family but we are not a pack. And sometimes it’s hard to balance myself without this anchor.”

“True, my wolf is much more settled now. Their scents keep me grounded. Not many scents outside of my pack give me this sense of comfort.”

He looks at Jeongguk and words die in his throat. The alpha is looking at him with an unfamiliar glint in his eyes. As if he knew. As if he knew that his scent is one of the exceptions. Maybe the biggest of them all. The only one that calmed him down after the scare of losing bunny; the only one that his omega, and Taehyung himself, craves for.

Is it possible for him to know? Is Taehyung so transparent? Or maybe Jeongguk is just more perceptive than he lets on.

The air around him gets a bit too stuffy and his heartbeat speeds up. For a second the alpha looks like he wants to say something but he only bites his lower lip and Taehyung needs to turn away. He’s too weak for the sight.

“It was a delicious meal, Jeongguk,” he finally says after clearing his throat. “Thank you so much, I thought nothing would satisfy bunny today. Are you a picky eater? Because she doesn’t get that from me for sure.”

The alpha giggles. “Not really. It might be just her own trait.”

“Shame,” he sighs. “I was hoping I’d have someone to blame but I can’t blame her. Never her.”

He pats his belly and sees the wonder in Jeongguk’s eyes. He’s seen that look before. Back in the shopping centre when they bumped into each other for the first time and in the supermarket, where they met for the second time. When Jeongguk heard that bunny was moving inside of Taehyung.

And Taehyung wants to offer him to touch his belly. He really does, his omega wants that too, whimpering and urging him to do something.

But he can’t. It’s too early for that and it seems like Jeongguk thinks the same because this time it’s him who looks away and clears his throat. “Dessert?”

“Dessert?”

“Yeah, I baked a cake.”

“You baked the cake?”

“That’s what I said,” Jeongguk chuckles and takes out a springform pan from the turned off oven. “It’s papaya coconut crumble cake and I think it finally cooled down so we can eat.”

“Papaya?” Taehyung arches his brow. The alpha avoids his eyes but Taehyung can clearly see a blush on his cheeks. “Did you make it for me?”

“Well…” Jeongguk trails off with a pout. “I actually did that. As a thank you for the rescue when I was at my lowest. At first I was going to just bring it to you but then the dinner happened and you know. Yeah.”

The omega giggles softly, hearing that. “It’s okay, Jeongguk-ah, you don’t have to do anything for me in return, you took care of me enough times already.”

“Not enough,” he frowns. “And it’s not like I did something big, it’s just a cake. Anyway, let’s eat.”

As much as Taehyung would love to stay longer, he’s too full already and there’s a small fluff ball downstairs in his apartment, waiting impatiently for his evening walk. Without a care that the mere thought makes Taehyung nauseous and on the verge of crying, considering how much his feet hurt today. 

He says so to Jeongguk who immediately starts packing a few slices of cake to the food container. “I could take Yeontan for a walk. I need to go with Bam anyway, so it’s not a problem and you and your poor feet could rest.”

“Are you sure?” Taehyung needs to ask. He feels like he starts to be a burden for the alpha.

But the smile on Jeongguk’s face is sincere, no hesitance detectable in his nod. “I’m sure. Let me help you.”

And Taehyung can’t refuse that.

There’s knocking at Taehyung’s door almost an hour later and when he opens the door, there’s Jeongguk with Yeontan in his arms and Bam sitting between his legs.

“Hi,” the alpha greets him with a bunny smile. “This little gentleman got a bit tired and needed a hand.”

“Oh my Luna, Tannie, are you okay?” Taehyung laughs at his poor dog and tries to take him from Jeongguk but the alpha refuses immediately.

“You can’t carry him, Tae,” he scolds and places the pomeranian on the floor. The moment his harness is gone, Yeontan bolts to his bed, not sparing a glance at his walk buddies. “Ouch, I thought he had fun with us.”

“I’m sure he did, it’s his normal behaviour when satisfied. If he wasn’t, you’d know.”

“I’m glad then.” Jeongguk looks like he’s having some inner turmoil, so Taehyung patiently waits. “You know,” he finally starts. “I could take him out more often. Me and Bam are going on walks anyway and we wouldn’t mind company and hopefully that could prevent your sore feet.”

The omega feels like he could cry on the spot. The man in front of him is a dream coming true. Scratch that, Taehyung wouldn’t be able to create someone like him in his imagination, even if he wanted to (and his imagination is basically his profession, he earns money on it). Just today he prepared food for Taehyung, baked him a cake with regard to Taehyung's pregnancy fruit schedule, took his dog for a walk so he doesn’t tire himself and now he even offers to take care of Yeontan on a daily basis. What’s next?

“Jeongguk, that’s so nice of you but I couldn’t use you like this,” Taehyung mumbles, playing nervously with his fingers. He feels a bit overwhelmed with the kindness of the alpha.

But the man only shakes his head at his words. “It really wouldn’t be a problem but if that would be more comfortable for you, we could start walking together, how about that? Then whenever you get tired you could just rest somewhere and I would take care of our puppies.”

Jeongguk smiles sweetly and Taehyung doesn’t think he’s strong enough to refuse such a proposal. More alone time with his single crush? Every day?

Not even he can resist. Not when his omega howls in excitement and the flock of butterflies comes to life in his stomach. Even Nari seems more active than usual at this moment.

“I think I would love that.”

Chapter Text

They start their daily walks the very next day. Jeongguk is at Taehyung’s door at 7 in the morning but seeing omega’s barely opened eyes they decide to do their morning routines separately and meet for the afternoon and evening walks.

They stick to the park in their neighbourhood and very soon it’s clear that Jeongguk’s idea was very practical, as Taehyung almost everyday gets tired during at least one of their walks. He blames his neglected diet and of course doesn’t tell this to the alpha but he makes a mental note to actually pay more attention to what he eats. Because if Yoongi will not stock his pantry with food, he’ll eat literally anything as long as it satiates his hunger and isn’t harmful for his pup. 

Of course, these walks give them plenty of time to talk and get to know each other a bit better. Jeongguk is very interested in everything that involves pregnancy, asking about the physical activities, listening to Taehyung’s complaints about yoga classes and back pains and providing the encouraging words to keep going, reminding him what a great prize awaits him at the end of this road. Of course, pregnancy is not just bad things, it’s filled with amazing moments and Taehyung talks about them too, which always brings a soft smile to the alpha’s face.

Jeongguk also asks a lot about his job. How his current book is progressing, what inspires him, what is his system of working, how he actually keeps doing any work without a fixed schedule that sometimes is the only motivation for Jeongguk to do anything useful. And he tries to sweet talk his way into getting some spoilers but Taehyung is proud to say that at least in this matter he stays strong and doesn’t succumb to this handsome man.

The alpha talks about himself too. About his work, hundreds of activities, his friends and dads and Bam. How he decided to adopt a puppy when he felt lonely for a really long time, the dog bringing light and warmth to his life, making it overall better and so much happier. How Mingyu and Yugyeom are planning to organise a rock climbing trip for their group sometime next month. 

The topics keep flowing and before Taehyung knows it, the aubergine week arrives with his head alpha at the door, ready to restock his fridge. It was a great shock to the omega when he found out that the aubergine is a fruit, not a vegetable and he was truly afraid that his hyung is going to do some disgusting things with this knowledge. But to Taehyung’s immense relief, he didn’t prepare anything out of the ordinary. 

“How are you, pup?” Yoongi asks while placing all the bags on the kitchen counter. He then proceeds to unpack and organise all the goodies.

“Same old, same old.” Taehyung smiles, observing his head alpha carefully placing a tray with seasoned aubergine in the oven, as always not turning it on but leaving it for the omega to bake when he’s hungry. “I’m going for my first massage today after birth class.”

“You finally found a nice place?”

“Well, it’s close to the school and it has great reviews.”

“Good. Give it a try but if you feel uncomfortable we can always find a new place.”

They chat a bit more as it seems that Yoongi doesn’t have any morning meetings but the moment the alpha clears his throat and leans on his hand placed on the counter, Taehyung knows the friendly conversation is finished and it’s time for the parent talk.

“Taehyung-ah,” he starts and the omega feels like rolling his eyes. “I wanted to talk to you about something.”

“Does it have anything to do with Jeongguk’s recent break up?”

Yoongi sighs and pinches the bridge of his nose.

“I know you think I am a pain in the ass-”

“I know for a fact that you are.”

“-and that all your little friends encourage you to go for it-”

“Wait for Jimin to find out how you just called him.”

“-but please listen to me.” Yoongi puts his hand back on the counter. “Before you do anything, please make sure that he is serious about you.”

“Hyung, we don’t date. We’re just talking, you don’t have to worry.”

“But I do! No one will do it except me. You are an adult, so I can’t stop you if you decide to pursue that alpha, I’m just asking you to be careful.” He looks at Taehyung with pleading eyes. “You know I love you and I want only what is best for you and if this alpha is that, I will be the first to support you. But make sure he’s here for a long run. That he’s not interested in you only because you smell like him, that he doesn’t want to take Nari away from you the moment you recognise him as an alpha father, that he likes you for you, as he should, not because you’re carrying his pup. It’s all twisted now, for you too. You are drawn to him because you’re pregnant by him. And if that’s not enough, he just ended a relationship. So please, Taehyung, please be careful.”

There’s nothing Taehyung can actually say for that. He knows Yoongi is right with everything. He himself sometimes wonders if he’s really so infatuated with Jeongguk or if that’s just his pregnancy hormones urging him to be close to the alpha whose part is currently literally in him. He also doesn’t blame his friend that he’s so protective. The alpha is the only one who ever questions Taehyung’s decisions. It was the same with donor insemination, when Yoongi made him consider things he’d never think about on his own.

So he just smiles and promises his hyung to be careful and not make any hasty decisions.

After the birth class that Taehyung again has to attend on his own, as his pack is busy with their work during that time, he goes to the gym for his massage appointment. 

And since the very beginning it feels wrong.

The small reception overwhelms Taehyung with a potent odour of multiple alphas. It is so strong, he wonders if he got to the right place. It is custom to have air purifiers in sport facilities so no rank feels uncomfortable and most of them follow this rule, same rank gyms sometimes making exceptions, but there are still places like this one and being an unmated, pregnant omega, Taehyung’s first instinct is to flee.

But he bravely approaches the kindly looking receptionist and she directs him to the room where his masseur is awaiting him. It requires him to power walk through the entire gym, between shirtless alphas and their suffocating pheromones.

The moment he reaches the door, he doesn’t bother to knock and just rushes inside and sighs with relief.

“Good afternoon.”

He turns around and comes face to face with, as he assumes, his masseur. A very muscular alpha, with sharp features but a nice smile. 

At least this one uses scent blockers. Though the lack of a mating mark stirs something unpleasant in Taehyung’s belly.

“Hello,” he greets and bows slightly. “Sorry for barging in like this but…” he trails off but the alpha only siles wider.

“No worries, I know it might get a bit overwhelming out there. I’ve been trying to force air purifiers in the whole facility but the owners seem to deem it unnecessary.” The masseur gestures at the door on the other side of the room, “Please, go change and come out when you are ready. I’m going to prepare everything.”

He seems nice and when Taehyung emerges from the changing room he introduces himself as Lee Hoseok, his masseur for today. The omega is calm when taking a seat and he starts to have hope it’s not going to be a total disaster after all, but then Hoseok finally touches his back with oiled hands and Taehyung can smell the chosen fragrance.

Lavender.

It repulses him immediately, the memory of it mixed with Jeongguk’s scent still vivid in his mind, and he can feel his own scent spiking, which the masseur interprets in a totally wrong way. “Sorry, I know it might be uncomfortable at first, to have an unknown alpha touch you but please try to relax and enjoy. I will work on your contracted muscles so you may find it slightly painful but it should subside shortly. The lavender should help to ease your nerves.”

Well, surprise, surprise, mister masseur, it doesn’t work on him.

The next forty five minutes are a nightmare. The massage itself is not bad, Hoseok seems to know what he is doing but because Taehyung can’t relax at all, it doesn’t actually relieve any pressure though the alpha is very gentle and tries to ease Taehyung’s mind with a casual small talk.

He leaves the building with relief. He’s scheduled four massages in advance but he seriously considers cancelling the rest.

When he meets in the evening with Jeongguk he recounts everything to him in a whiny voice. He of course doesn’t mention that the triggering scent was the lavender, because the alpha could quickly connect the dots.

“And I don’t know what to do now,” he cries, dropping down on a bench and taking off the leash from Yeontan’s harness. “Why did he have to use the stupid oil?”

“Maybe ask him to use a different scent?” Jeongguk suggests and takes out the tennis balls for the dogs. “What was it anyway?”

“Vanilla,” Taeyung answers without thinking, the first scent that comes to his mind. Jimin hates it since he once got a very strong perfume with vanilla base. 

The alpha nods and throws the balls in two different directions. Both Yeontan and Bam charge after them, Bam involving himself in a playful banter with other dogs, while Yeontan happily trots back after retrieving the ball. “I’m sure they have more kinds of oils, Tae, just tell him you don’t like it.”

“Gosh, it’s so simple,” he whines again and Jeongguk laughs loudly. “I hate my pregnancy brain. It’s useless. I could’ve told him right then and instead I was just sitting there and suffered for almost an hour.”

“Aww, you poor crybaby,” Jeongguk coos and winks at him. “A bit of a wrong scent and the prince is already unhappy.”

“Hey!” Taehyung throws a dog treat at his head. He misses and makes the alpha laugh even more. “Don’t laugh at me. I’m curious how whiny you’d be if it was you who was pregnant.”

“Well, we’ll never find out.”

“No, but I know every alpha would be absolutely insufferable during that time. Just like you are when you’re sick.”

And Jeongguk takes that personally. They spend the rest of the walk teasing and bantering which rank is actually stronger and can endure more pain or general inconvenience. 

They agree to disagree when it’s time to say goodbye but when Taehyung gets to bed that night, he receives the message, that he’s definitely right and the omegas are the biggest badasses of a wolfkind.

It’s Thursday evening and Taehyung is going back home from his walk with Yeontan. This morning Jeongguk let him know that he won’t be able to join him and the omega must admit he got used to the company pretty fast. Even his pomeranian seems to be a bit down without his overgrown puppy friend and that says a lot as Yeontan is the most independent creature Taehyung got to know. The writer is also not very keen on wandering around as he’s after a yoga class and shopping with Seokjin for a present for Felix’s baby shower they’re attending tomorrow. The sweet beauty invited every omega from their birth class and no one could say no to him. But now Taehyung is exhausted and wants to lie down on a couch and finally rest his legs.

So due to the overall gloomy moods, they cut the walk short, having Yeontan quickly do his business and resign from ball chasing.

They’re about to start climbing the stairs to the building entrance when the door opens and an unfortunately familiar and definitely unexpected person goes out. Taehyung freezes in a spot, feeling his heart quickening his pace. Even Yeontan doesn’t move.

Wonyoung seems to not notice him at first, only at the bottom of the stairs she finally looks at him and he can see the glint of recognition in her eyes. She gives him a tight lipped smile and a curt nod. “Taehyung-ssi.”

“Wonyoung-ssi,” he greets back and doesn’t know if he should expect something more.

To his relief she doesn’t stop for a chat, just passes him swiftly and climbs into the car. Only when she drives away, he releases a breath he didn’t notice he was holding. Yeontan whines quietly at his feet and that finally wakes him up from the stupor.

They slowly climb the stairs and go to the elevator. The whole ride to their floor, the dog paces around nervously and only when they get home Taehyung realises he’s been releasing distressed pheromones.

What is this? Why was she here? Did they reconcile with Jeongguk? Was this the reason why the alpha told Taehyung he wouldn’t be able to join him and Yeontan on their evening walk? Is everything going to end between the two of them now? There’s nothing really happening to be honest but he’s pretty sure Wonyoung wouldn’t be happy if her boyfriend met on a regular basis with a guy pregnant with him.

The distress doesn’t leave him for the rest of the night and the entire day so when he picks up Seokjin on the way to Felix’s house, he’s one ball of nerves. He shouldn’t be but little can he help when his omega got his hopes up and Taehyung himself got quite attached to those doe eyes, bunny smile and a little mole under it.

Seokjin seems to catch on quickly that something is wrong and he doesn’t speak the entire ride, except a cheerful greeting. And Taehyung is grateful because if he had to focus on the busy roads and talk at the same time with his mind all over the place, he could crash them on the closest crossroad.

Only when they are sitting on a couch with Vicky, after Felix unpacked his gifts and everyone split up to continue their discussion in smaller groups, his friend turns to him with a worried expression.

“What’s going on Tae, are you okay?”

Taehyung looks quickly in Felix’s direction to make sure he’s busy with other guests to not worry him on his special day and sighs. He tells them about meeting Wonyoung the day before and all his concerns about how his newly developed relationship with Jeongguk is probably going to change.

“Just because she was there doesn’t mean they got back together,” Vicky points out and Jin nods in agreement.

“Exactly, even if she was there in an attempt to mend their relationship it doesn’t mean Jeongguk is interested. After that night in 134340 I’m pretty sure he was relieved that it ended.”

“You can’t be sure of that,” Taehyung mumbles, playing with the hem of his shirt. “It’s not uncommon to get back together after a breakup after the emotions subside and each side has time to think it through with clear minds.”

“Taehyung-ah, you shouldn’t overthink like this. She could’ve, I don’t know, bring his stuff back and get back her own that she left at his place.” Vicky caresses his arm with an encouraging smile.

“Exactly. Just mention casually next time you are on your little dog date that you run into her.”

“I don’t know if I can be casual about it,” he groans and throws his head back, to lean it on the backrest. He pouts. “And he cancelled yesterday's walk for that.”

“Aww, is this what it’s all about?” Seokjin coos and Vicky laughs quietly. “I’m sure he’ll be like a lovesick little puppy tomorrow when you meet because you don’t see each other today either, no?”

“No, I don’t know what time we’ll finish here so already on Monday I told him to go alone today.”

“Mark my words, before you start your third trimester, he’ll be already courting you.”

After their conversation they decide to socialise a bit. Their group from birth class is quite tight together as there are not many of them. With six omegas and five alphas it was easy for them to get close, both ranks having their group chats to exchange their experiences. Even Yeonjun with his boyfriend Soobin, who are much younger than the rest of them, fit in. There are also a few other omegas Taehyung doesn’t know. Like Jisung, who used to be Felix’s mate - Hyunjin’s roommate or Yeosang who showed up with his two alpha mates. The two are actually the only two who talk with them, as the rest don't seem keen to mingle.

Maybe they would get to it if Susanna, the sixth omega from their birth class, wouldn’t suddenly get into labour. Taehyung and Seokjin offer to drive her to the hospital as her mate Woosung seems to be on the verge of passing out. Thankfully the couple keep their hospital bag in the car whenever they leave home so the action goes smoothly and soon enough Taehyung is dropping Seokjin off at his apartment.

When he arrives home he quickly adds to his list to prepare a hospital bag as soon as possible and keep taking it with him whenever he leaves the house. He shouldn’t need it for quite a long time but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Fortunately, Yeontan, grumpy after his disturbed nap, doesn’t feel like a long walk and pulls the leash to go back even before they reach the park. A dog like him is a blessing for Taehyung’s permanently sore, pregnant feet.

Later that night he receives a message that immediately brings a smile on the omega’s face and assures a good night of sleep for him.

JJG-130709: let me know when you wake up tomorrow for a morning walk? me and Bam miss our companions :(

Jeongguk maybe doesn’t behave like a love sick puppy but he surely sports his trademark bunny smile when Taehyung and Yeontan meet him and Bam in front of their building. He also prepared the smoothies for the two of them because, as he claims, Taehyung has an awful habit of leaving home without eating. And normally the omega would probably get all bothered by the scolding but the gentle tone and eyes soften the blow and he only wants to please the man in front of him.

They start walking and Taehyung takes a sip of the smoothie. He has to refrain himself from gulping down the entire thing in one go.

“Jeonggukie, it’s delicious, what is this?”

“Well, it’s an aubergine week, so of course aubergine, blended with banana and almond milk. Yours is with a bit of agave syrup, because I know what a huge sweet tooth you have,” the alpha jokes, nudging him lightly.

Taehyung stops drinking instantly. “It’s with aubergine?”

“You can’t tell, huh? I was surprised too. I tried a few recipes this week but this one was actually good so I was relieved I was able to find it before the week finished,” he sips his own drink and Taehyung can’t stop looking at him.

Did he really experiment to prepare a tasty smoothie for him?

“Honestly I was losing hope. Everything was disgusting, one was nice but… I was pretty sure you wouldn’t like it,” the alpha keeps blabbering about his cooking endeavours long after they arrive at the park and doesn’t stop until Bam starts being restless to blow off some pent up energy.

They let the dogs run around while they sit down and Taehyung tells him about the baby shower. By the end of it, Jeongguk seems terrified.

“Can it start so suddenly? Didn’t they have a date or something?” He looks at Taehyung’s baby bump as if he expected a pup to pop out of him any minute.

The omega laughs out loud.

“Yeah, they had but it’s not fixed, silly. I also have a c-section scheduled already in case my body is not prepared for the labour but ultimately it’s bunny who will choose the day when she’s prepared to greet me*.” He smiles and caresses his belly.

“That’s… scary,” Jeongguk breathes out and looks away from him to check on the dogs. When he sees they are still in the eyesight he turns back to him. “I always thought that you can tell some time in advance, even if it’s not precisely on a d-day.”

“Well, sometimes you can feel the symptoms but there are also Braxon Hicks contractions which are basically a fake labour. So it might be a false alarm.”

“Wow, Tae, you are so brave.” The alpha looks at Taehyung with such admiration in his eyes, that Taehyung needs to avert his gaze because he can feel the blush creeping up his neck all the way to his cheeks. “Since I met you I gained even more respect for everyone who goes through pregnancy.”

“It's nice to hear that.”

They sit in silence for a bit then. Taehyung uses this time to figure out how to mention he ran into Wonyoung on Thursday. Everything that comes to his mind screams desperate and presumptuous. Then an idea appears in his head and he takes a deep breath to prepare himself mentally for his attempt at flirting that’s coming next.

“So…” he starts and he can already feel the alphas eyes on him but he stubbornly looks in front of himself. “You missed me?”

“Well, I mean, not only me,” a small pause makes him finally look at Jeongguk who is smiling slightly and his cheeks turned a delicate shade of pink as well. “But basically… yeah.”

“Cool,” Taehyung looks at his hands and fidgets with his fingers. What now, Casanova? How do you proceed with this? “It seems like we should avoid such long breaks in our routine, then.”

“I think it’s the only reasonable solution.”

The alpha shuffles a tiny bit closer and nudges him with his shoulder. They are not exactly pressed against each other but Taehyung can practically feel the faint contact between their jackets and it’s enough to make his heart speed up.

Jeongguk doesn’t say anything more and when Taehyung steals glances at him, he keeps observing their dogs with a small smile on his face. And of course, he doesn’t have to explain anything to him, but Taehyung would feel much better if he knew if he and his omega should hold their horses and back away a little.

Though if he was getting back together with Wonyoung, he for sure wouldn’t be willing to continue their walking arrangements… right?

“So, funny story,” he forces himself to laugh. “Guess who I ran into the other day with Yeontan.”

He expects the alpha to stiffen a bit or pretend to not know what he is talking about but he only sighs instead. “I hope she wasn’t mean to you.”

“No, no, we barely greeted each other.”

“Good.”

“I just didn’t expect to see her.”

Jeongguk nods slowly, as if deep in thought. “She came with some of my things I left in her apartment and to collect hers.” So after all, Vicky was right. It was just a post break up exchange. Jeongguk rolls his eyes then. “She kept rescheduling it, excusing herself with the lack of time but I think she just wanted the emotions to subside a bit, because she was talking about mending our relationship.”

Taehyung’s heart stops for a second at that. “Oh.”

“The break up was quite clean, very mature. We both knew it didn’t work between us anymore but that evening it got a bit nasty. Wonyoung was very mad and didn’t want to accept that I am not interested in getting back together. It’s a closed chapter for me and she didn’t like it.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Are you, though?” Jeongguk sends him a playful smirk and Taehyung feels the blush creeping on his cheeks.

“I mean, yes? That she was mean to you.”

Jeongguk laughs out loud and nudges him again, this time staying close enough for their arms to remain pressed together properly. “You are too cute, you know?”

“Stop it,” the omega whines and hides his face in his hands. “I’m pregnant, you can’t make fun of me. I’m sensitive.”

“Sorry, sorry,” Jeongguk chuckles and after a moment sighs again. “Break ups suck. They are draining and unnecessarily dramatic. I hope my next relationship will be the last one because I’m getting too old for this shit.”

“Now you sound dramatic. Think about it this way, at least you’ll get the opportunity to feel that thrill of getting to know a new person again. You know, all the firsts, courting if you like tradition, those shy glances and touches at the beginning, kicking your legs at good night texts and blushing while sending ‘good morning’s. Slowly getting comfortable around each other and suddenly realising you can’t go through a day without this person anymore.”

They stay silent for a bit after that, both deep in thought. Taehyung really wishes to be that new person to Jeongguk. Because he himself is a bit there already. The day without seeing the alpha feels like a day wasted and if he could, he would extend their evening walks to night movie sessions and lazy breakfasts. His nest feels way too empty lately, even though its walls surround him tightly, touching him from all the sides and his belly stays buried in the little bunny burrow he kept since the incident.

He looks at the alpha only to see that he’s already had his eyes on him. Taehyung’s heart skips a beat, just to increase its pace a second later. Jeongguk smiles gently and cocks his head to the side.

“Are you ready?”

And Taehyung doesn’t know if he’s asking if he’s rested and now is ready to end their walk and go home or maybe he asks about something totally different. More meaningful. More promising.

Either way, he answers,

“I’m ready.”

Chapter Text

It’s not like something changed between them with the arrival of a corn week. They are still going out for their daily evening walks, sometimes Jeongguk messages Taehyung when he has weird dilemmas (e.g. if the vampire policeman could enter the house with a warrant but without the invitation) or sees a particularly cute dog (which happens quite often, as Jeongguk finds basically all dogs cute).

But Taehyung feels like there is a little shift. Like when they are going to the park and Jeongguk is walking a bit closer than usual. Or how most of the time he chooses to sit with him and throw the balls from there instead of chasing after their dogs. And how he seemingly by accident sits in a way that their shoulders touch. Not too much to be considered “scandalous” in the eyes of older omega ajummas judging the youngsters in the park, but enough to unfailingly speed up Taehyung’s heartbeat.

Taehyung keeps complaining to him about the little inconveniences of daily life with an enlarging growth on his belly (“Bunny is not a growth, Tae!”). But now Jeongguk offers comforting touches, little caresses of arms, pats on the head, on Wednesday walk even a brief squeeze of hand, which sends Taehyung’s hormones spiralling and absolutely mortified and embarrassed he has to go back home to calm his omega down. It feels like Taehyung lives in one of the dramas he loves so much, when the main characters finally touch their hands after ten episodes and you want to cheer and celebrate for a week. 

So yes, nothing changed and yet nothing’s the same anymore.

He says as much to Seokjin when they sit at their usual café after Thursday yoga class.

“But I think it’s good, you know, slow steps forward. You don’t rush anything and let your love bloom.”

“Love?” Taehyung snorts. “Aren’t you getting a little bit ahead of yourself, hyung?”

“Don’t play dumb with me. We both know you are already a lost case.”

It’s hard to argue with that but Taehyung is not going to admit his friend is right. He can’t acknowledge it out loud if he wants to keep his sanity around Jeongguk. As far as he knows this dancing around each other may last for a long time and at the end might not even end with them getting together. That is the worst possible outcome and while he is aware it’s a possibility, he prefers to not think about it. To not attract negative energy.

“And how are your massages?” Seokjin wonders and it makes Taehyung groan loudly.

“It was a nightmare. He didn’t use lavender oil anymore but something was off. My omega was all skittish the entire time so I just cancelled the remaining visits.”

“Yikes. It’s probably because he is an unmated alpha. You’ve been getting attached to Jeongguk, you are pregnant with his pup and your wolf got anxious.”

“But I don’t feel like this when I talk with a lifeguard at the pool,” Taehyung points out.

It’s true, since he became a regular at the local swimming pool he befriended the staff, including the attractive alpha lifeguard. He’s never flirted with him or maintained a conversation longer than a couple of minutes but the man always asks how he is feeling and keeps a careful eye on him during his swimming sessions. The watchful alpha doesn’t make his hair stand on end even if he can feel his gaze most of the time on himself as usually he’s the only visitor at the pool.

“Does the lifeguard touch you?” Seokjin raises his brow and Taehyung sputters.

“Of course not! Hyung, what are you implying?”

“Don’t worry, I did not suggest you’re cheating on your alpha.” The omega rolls his eyes and ignores Taehyung’s glare. “I mean that the masseur was touching you. Even if that was his job, he is still an unmated alpha touching you and easing the pain you and your omega want someone else to help with.”

Taehyung thinks about it. It actually sounds pretty reasonable. It’s not like their animal instincts are as prominent as they used to be in times when they were still shapeshifting, living in the woods, growing turnips and keeping goats but they do have wolves in them. So unmated alphas sometimes can still be perceived as a threat by unmated omegas, even if their human side rationally knows it’s unreasonable.

But mating still exists and is doing well so the danger of being mated by force will always be a present fear.

“Luckily for you, I actually might have a solution for you,” Seokjin continues. “I was telling Namjoon-ah how few places offer massages for pregnant omegas and he was working on it for some time. He hired three masseurs, all of them mated, of each rank and from what I heard they’re a hit. I didn’t say anything earlier as I was not sure if any of them would be good but they all are.”

“Could you ask Joonie to sign me to one of them? Whoever he deems the best or is available. I really need a good massage.”

“I can only imagine. I don’t know what I would do without Namjoon-ah. Who would have thought that such a small creature could cause so much trouble,” Jimin whines, caressing and looking at his belly. “After being a rascal for months now, I really hope you’re going to turn into an angel when you crawl out of me.”

“Crawl out?” Taehyung snorts.

“Like a spawn of Satan he is.”

They bicker a little bit more but soon Seokjin needs to leave for dinner with his mate’s parents and Taehyung has a package to pick up.

Taehyung prepared a list of ‘things to do before the baby comes’ way before he even got pregnant. And while he didn’t understand why some of the things should be done so long in advance, he doesn’t question it. He can try to imagine what it is like to have a baby but the reality is usually way different than expectations. Even if he’s aware how difficult the beginnings are going to be, even with all his pack to help, it’s probably gonna be even worse and he needs to be as prepared as he can. So if according to his ‘to do’ list he should baby proof the flat in his 22nd week, that is what he is going to do.

He’s also painfully aware it’s high time to finish the nursery but he can’t paint it on his own, so even if he already sketched all of the bunnies hopping around the walls, he needs to wait for Jiminie and Yoongi hyung to have time to finish them. The paint also needs at least 8 weeks dry and the potentially harmful fumes to disperse and he might still have 16 weeks to go but who knows when his daughter decides to make her grand appearance. Hopefully it will be right on the due date but he must be prepared for anything.

So Taehyung has just arrived home after picking up the package with all the non-slip pads, corner bumpers, outlet covers, knob covers, latches and other cabinet lockers from his favourite shop and is going to work on baby proofing his apartment. He went full crazy but if there’s one thing Taehyung promised himself, is that he’s never going to skimp on his pup’s safety. Never.

While he’s waiting for the elevator in the underground garage, he can hear footsteps coming his way but before he can turn around and greet one of the nameless neighbours, there’s a soft whisper in his ear and a patchouli scent overtakes his senses.

“Hi.” Jeongguk’s lips are a bit too close, too far, for Taehyung’s liking. “You forgot to press the button.”

The alpha reaches from behind him and his chest presses to Taehyung’s back for a few seconds and the omega’s heart goes into frenzy.

“Oh.”

“I think bunny is messing with your head a bit more lately, or do you have something else in your mind?” Jeongguk keeps whispering and even if their bodies don’t touch anymore, Taehyung still can feel the heat spreading to all of his limbs.

“I-” he swallows. “I was just lost in thought.”

There’s a hum in his ear and he swears, he can feel the vibrations reverberating to him through a bit of space between them. 

There’s suddenly a warmth on his arm, going slowly down and his breath hitches in his throat, when a hand touches his, sliding down until it’s able to grab the bag he’s holding. The weight disappears and he finally turns around to look at the alpha. He takes a step back to not lose his mind.

Jeongguk smiles softly at him. “You shouldn’t carry stuff.”

“I can carry light things, don’t worry.”

“Nonsense. I’ll always worry.” Taehyung rolls his eyes at that but his heart and omega aren’t as collected as he tries to pretend to be. “And you’re not gonna carry anything when I’m around.”

They look at each other for a few moments and Taehyung tries to understand what happened. Why is Jeongguk so… flirty? Well, maybe he’s been a little bit like this lately but in more of a teasing way, not so forward and daring.

“Thank you,” Taehyung croaks out because he feels like he needs to say something, anything, just to break out of this weird bubble that slowly swallows him in its patchouli cocoon. To stop his omega’s attempts to convince him that baring a throat in front of the alpha right here, right now to secure their potential future courtship is a good idea. But he still makes Taehyung say,  “You are always taking such good care of us.”

And it’s there. That bunny smile, the one that even without seeing it made Taehyung fall in love with an idea of it and long for it. Admittedly, in a smaller version, attached to a baby face but in its original form it’s warming its way into Taehyung’s heart just as effectively.

“What do you have here?” The alpha peeks inside the bag with curiosity sparkling in his eyes.

“Stuff to baby proof my apartment. I will need Yoongi hyung’s help with some things later but I want to start with easier tasks today,” he explains when the elevator bell rings.

“I could help you,” Jeongguk offers as they go inside and press their respective floor buttons. “Just let me take a quick shower and grab something to eat and I can be over at yours in less than an hour and do everything that’s needed.”

Taehyung looks at him and is met with an expectant expression. He’d never think about declining but faced with those big, honest eyes he wouldn’t stand a chance even if he tried. “That would be great, actually. But let me cook for you, as a thank you.”

“Deal.” Jeongguk smiles again and when the elevator stops at Taehyung’s floor he holds the bag up. “I’ll bring it over with me, so I’m sure you will wait for me with all the work.”

The door is about to close after the omega leaves but he turns around quickly and puts his hand between it to prevent it. “Wait!” He smiles when Jeongguk tilts his head in confusion. “Any allergies?”

The alpha snorts and shakes his head. “Nothing food related.”

“Good. See you in a minute.”

“Can’t wait, Tae.”

Thankfully, yesterday Taehyung had a big craving for a kimchi stew and he’s unable to make a one serving of food (he blames living in a pack for so long, when he never cooked for only one person) so he still has a big pot that would be able to feed a small family and he only needs to prepare some tofu to complete the dish.

He takes a shower himself and while waiting for Jeongguk, he busies himself with going through the fridge to think what other delicious food he could treat the alpha with. Of course, there are multiple ears of corn and after a minute of thinking he decides to make elote. He and Jimin prepared it once for their Mexican themed party and it was a hit, so he’s quite confident the alpha will be pleased with the dish.

He’s surprised to find even the cotija cheese and everything for Mexican crema in the fridge. But he probably should’ve expected it, considering Yoongi as usual stocked his kitchen on Monday and knowing him made a research what dishes Taehyung could cook using corn.

It saves him a short trip to the nearby shop and by the time his doorbell rings, the elote are prepared, waiting for the oven to warm up and kimchi stew is simmering on the stove, ready to be served.

He opens the door and just like during their dinner two weeks ago, Jeongguk wears a plain black t-shirt and grey sweats and it makes Taehyung’s knees weak. This time his hair is not fluffy but still wet from the shower but it’s still as charming and overwhelming. The omega’s a sucker for this whole boyfriend look, sue him. If only he was Taehyung’s boyfriend…

“Jeon Jeongguk, at Mr Kim and bunny’s service,” he announces happily and bows exaggeratedly, swinging the bag with all the supplies when he straightens back.

“Come in, you dork.” Taehyung needs to bite his lip, to not grin like crazy. “The food is ready.”

“The smell is mouth watering already, thank you for cooking, Tae.”

They sit down with steaming bowls, the stew prettily decorated with tofu and green onions and Taehyung’s omega preens at all the praises the alpha showers him with - from the plating to the taste, as soon as he tries the first spoonful.

“Tae, this is amazing, oh my Luna,” Jeongguk mumbles with cheeks stuffed with tofu, furrowing his brows angrily. “It tastes almost like my dad’s, wow.”

The comment makes Taehyung’s heart skip a beat. He knows how much Jeongguk loves his dad’s cooking, he talked about it for a good twenty minutes during one of their walks so it’s like the highest level of compliment Taehyung could receive. His omega struts at the words and honestly, Taehyung feels like doing the same.

“Jeongguk-ah, it’s not that good,” he protests shyly, taking a sip himself. It’s good, he must admit. But it’s still just a kimchi stew. And he’s far from being even a decent cook.

“It’s amazing,” the alpha repeats. “If you don’t believe me, look at my eyebrows.” He points at his frown and Taehyung chuckles. “I’m serious. If you’re in doubt, trust my angry face while I’m eating. And I just told you it’s as good as my dad’s, I would never compare anything to his cooking if it really wasn’t worth it.”

“Almost.”

“What?”

“You said it tastes almost like your dad’s.”

“Yeah, because my old man makes it more spicy but I know you don’t like spicy food and I don’t mind.”

And Taehyung shouldn’t be surprised, he isn’t, not really, but the fact that Jeongguk stores all the little details about Taehyung just like Taehyung does about Jeongguk, makes his heart skip a beat.

They chat about their day while eating, Jeongguk even inhales a second serving, and the whole set is awfully domestic. It’s like the other households work - the alpha comes home and mates sit to eat dinner, the pregnant omega prepares for his pack, before they baby proof their home, both excited for their pup on the way.

For a really long time Taehyung thought that he didn't need it. Want, maybe. It would be nice to have a mate and expect a baby together, but it wasn’t something he’d crave for. His only longing was for a pup and this dream is already coming true.

But now, listening to Jeongguk’s rambling and never stopping compliments, he wants to keep it like this. No, not like this. He wants to see progress every day, step by step until they get to the stage from his freshly unlocked fantasy.

Right when the alpha finishes and puts the chopsticks down, the oven timer beeps and Taehyung gets up to bring the snacks to the table.

“Tae, what is this?” His guest seems shocked.

“Don’t look at me like this, the last time you were ready to feed half of our building. I just prepared something with corn.”

Jeongguk looks at the food on his plate with wonder. “She’s big like this already, isn’t she?” even his voice is different now. “It is really amazing, I follow those fruit-vegetable changes but having it actually in front of my eyes always hits me hard.” He looks at Taehyung, for the first time looking uncertain.

“What is it?”

“Do you know how big she was when we met?”

Taehyung needs to think about it to remember. “It was avocado week I think.”

“Avocado,” Jeongguk repeats, looking at the corn.

“Yeah, she’s growing like crazy. When I came back from the doctor with the news that the procedure was successful, Yoongi hyung was waiting with a sesame seed on his palm. She was a dot, and look at her now. Such a big girl.” The omega pats his belly proudly. He’s taking care of his pup, giving her safe and cosy space to grow and prepare herself to come to this world. He surrounds her with love and affection and there’s nothing she’d need that he wouldn't give her. Nothing.

“But sesame seed is like-” Jeongguk fumbles with his fingers trying to show Taehyung how small the seed is but gives up early. “And now-” he gestures at corn on a plate in front of him. “And soon-” he looks at Taehyung’s belly and the omega finds him so endearing. Mighty alpha, claimed to be the strongest of the ranks, lost of words faced with the magic of a pup growing from a foetus into a newborn.

“It’s hard to wrap your head around it, isn’t it?” he asks and Jeongguk nods, silently. “I keep getting mesmerised myself. When I talk to her and now she actually reacts, when she’s already showing her attitude with the kicks too precisely directed into my ribs to consider it a mistake.” Taehyung smiles when Jeongguk laughs loudly. “I used to not be able to see her, just had morning sickness as a constant reminder that I actually am pregnant. Now I have proof right in front of my eyes, I can see her growing.”

“It’s so weird, I see the two of you every day now and I normally don't see it, you know? Just one day I am suddenly like, ‘huh, I am pretty sure bunny was not this big a second ago’,” the alpha chuckles, gazing fondly at the belly. “Like right now, I am sure last time I saw you in that t-shirt it wasn’t so stretched.”

“Very possible, she’s growing like a weed.”

“Bunny’s not a weed, Tae!” Jeongguk whines and leans down a bit. “Don’t listen to your appa, you are not a weed. If there are plants involved, you are definitely a lovely flower.”

Taehyung’s heart almost bursts out of his chest. It’s the first time Jeongguk talks to her directly. It’s so unexpected it catches him off guard and he instinctively cups his belly on both sides. And Nari? She goes absolutely crazy inside of him. As if she knew she’s being addressed by her alpha father. The owner of the voice and scent she seems to love already and which do not fail to calm her down when everything else doesn’t work. 

He doesn’t tell Jeongguk though, he’s still not ready to feel the alpha’s hands on him, even if he’d be touching only the baby bump and through the clothes, at that. Besides, the kicks are still directed more inside of Taehyung, not the outside world, Jeongguk wouldn’t be able to feel them anyway.

Just when he thinks he’s going to faint from all the emotions, the alpha seems to realise what he did and he straightens up quickly. He looks just as startled with his act as Taehyung.

He clears his throat. “Let’s, uh… let’s eat and start baby proofing. She’s growing so fast if we don’t start now, we might not finish before she starts crawling,” he attempts to joke but there’s a clear nervousness in his voice.

Taehyung is still lost of words, so he only nods and puts an elote on his plate.

Jeongguk praises him again, making him blush and his omega wag his tail like a mad dog, and asks a lot of questions about the recipe, claiming he’s going to prepare it for the next gaming night with his alpha squad.

Taehyung would like to offer to prepare it for him, to show what a good omega he could be for Jeongguk, but once again, he stops himself. He’s too eager, too soon. Jeongguk just ended a relationship Taehyung has no idea how long he’s been in and it’s not up to Taehyung to make a first step. When Jeongguk is ready, if he’s ready, he’s going to let Taehyung know.

For now, they are friends.

Soon enough Taehyung is seated on his couch, looking at the alpha, who forbade him from helping. He’s currently attaching the TV to the wall with napping Yeontan pressed to his leg.

“Why didn’t you do it in the first place? It would be easier to hide all the cords then, maybe even put dedicated holes and run them through the wall.” Jeongguk’s voice complains from behind the TV.

“I didn’t want it hanging. I like how it looks on the TV stand.” Taehyung pouts and covers himself with a blanket. He doesn’t like being scolded by the alpha.

“I will look nice on the wall, too, don’t worry,” Jeongguk peeks from above the device and judging by his crinkled eyes, that famous bunny smile must be hiding behind the screen. “I think I have a cable tray at home but I’m actually pretty sure I can still run the cables inside.” he keeps knocking on the wall. “Give me a minute.”

He takes out his phone and Taehyung listens to the alien language he uses while talking to someone, explaining the situation and then only humming and answering with short ‘yes's or ‘no’s.

“Okay, could you come now then? I don’t have all of my tools here,” Jeongguk explains and the omega looks at him perplexed. Come here? As to his apartment? Who exactly? “Yeah, sure, take him with you, we’ll be faster this way. See ya.”

The alpha finishes the call and gets up. “Okay, Mingyu said it should be easy and fast to do, so I will do everything else while he’s driving here. He will take Yugyeom with him because they are hanging out now.” He’s been rummaging through all the shopping but when he doesn’t hear any answer he stops and finally looks at Taehyung. And the omega sees the exact moment something in his brain clicks. “Oh my Luna, Tae, I am so sorry. I just decided on your behalf about everything and I invited strangers to your apartment, I am so sorry, I'm so stupid! I’m going to call them right away and cancel everything, gosh, I swear sometimes I don’t think and-”

“Jeongguk-ah,” Taehyung interrupts him and decides to get up and get to the alpha before he freaks out completely. In a sudden surge of courage he takes Jeongguk’s hands in his, promptly making him stop talking. “If you know how to make it in the best way, I trust you. I just want bunny to be safe and if you think running cables through the wall is the best option I agree with you. I know you’d never do anything to hurt her.”

“Never,” Jeongguk confirms fiercely, squeezing Taehyung’s hands. “But the cable tray will work too, I just think it'll be more… aesthetically pleasing to hide them this way.”

“It’s settled then. Besides, I know Mingyu and Yugyeom, they are not strangers.” He smiles lightly, trying to ignore the fact that they’re still holding hands. “Luckily I have more elote to host them.”

“You don’t have to feed them,” Jeongguk frowns and Taehyung instinctively caresses his knuckles with his thumbs, always eager to ease him, no matter what is bugging him. The alpha intertwines their fingers at that. “They can make their own food. On second thought, maybe I can do it on my own.”

If he’s hinting on what Taehyung thinks he’s hinting on, the omega might get a heart attack before he’ll be able to give birth. “I’d just offer them a Mexican snack as a thank you for helping you.”

It’s not really any kind of confession but Taehyung hopes Jeongguk understands. 

Taehyung’s doting on Jeongguk only.

In Taehyung’s eyes Jeongguk is the one taking care of him and bunny. If anyone helps, it’s just that - help for Jeongguk.

He’s not sure this is the message the alpha gets but he smiles nonetheless and he doesn’t call off his friends.

By the time Mingyu and Yugyeom arrive, all the non-slip pads, corner bumpers, outlet covers, knob covers, latches and other cabinet lockers are in their destined place. Jeongguk coos at the corner bumpers in the shape of a paw print but his best reaction is when Taehyung takes him to the nursery and after a few moments he realises there are bunnies sketched all over the walls.

“Tae,” he gasps, coming closer to one of them. “This is so freaking cute, oh my Luna.”

He looks at all of them, praising Taehyung when he shyly admits he drew them himself. He coos even more, when he gets to the height ruler in one of the corners, with a stack of bunnies drawn next to it, one bunny on top of the other. When the omega mentions he needs to ask Yoongi and Jimin to paint them now, he is met with an immediate reaction.

“I can paint them,” Jeongguk offers with his large eyes directed at Taehyung. “I love painting, I think I even put it in my donor CV,” he jokes, making Taehyung giggle. He did, actually. Taehyung remembers. “If you have paints I can start even today.”

Seeing the enthusiasm, the omega can’t say no to him and Jeongguk still sports a huge bunny smile when the doorbell rings and they go to greet the new guests.

The three alphas finish work in a record time. The TV is hung, all the bookcases and other free standing furniture are attached to the wall, and half of the food in Taehyung’s house is eaten. He ended up feeding them not only with corn but also the rest of the kimchi stew and while they were finishing all the tasks, he prepared some sandwiches. Those are vacuumed as well and Jeongguk praises Taehyung profusely again, earning some teasing comments from his friends.

“Are you done?” the alpha asks them flatly. “If yes, you need to see something.”

He guides the other two to the nursery and Taehyung can just follow them, trying not to get too giddy at how comfortable Jeongguk feels around his apartment. His nest. 

The alpha shows off the sketches of the bunnies on the walls, which are immediately being cooed at by guests. “Tae drew them himself,” he announces proudly, caressing Taehyung’s arm in a fleeting movement, quickly retreating his hand but leaving a burning path behind. “I’m going to paint them because Tae can’t be around all the paint fumes.”

“Take a photo later and send it to our chat,” Yugyeom says while looking closer at two bunnies sleeping snuggled together.

“Hell with the photo, we can help too!” Mingyu exclaims, turning to Taehyung with eagerness written all over his face. “The three of us will finish much faster than this loser alone.”

“You will give those rabbits cancer,” Jeongguk deadpans, making Taehyung and Yugyeom laugh.

“I am bad at drawing, not colouring, asshole.”

“Stop swearing, bunny is in the room.”

Taehyung listens to their bickering, not able to contain his heart eyes. Jeongguk is a walking dream and it’s not possible for him to not fall for this man faster and harder with each passing day. A minute, really. He can’t count all the crises he went through this afternoon alone. When he finally manages to turn his eyes away from the alpha, he catches Yugyeom’s gaze observing him with a knowing smile. He can feel his face heat up in embarrassment but the alpha only winks at him, and makes a gesture of zipping his mouth shut.

Taehyung is not sure how much he can trust his crush’s friend but he doesn’t have much choice.

The next few hours he spends on the armchair brought from the living room by Jeongguk and Mingyu and placed in the corridor in front of the nursery. Jeongguk firmly banned him from entering the room and even brought his air purifier to place it in the entrance, as a filter between the paint smell and Taehyung. Who even does such shit? he thinks, sipping on his tea and joining the conversation from time to time.

The three alphas are really endearing. It’s clear they know each other for a long time and even though Taehyung knows they are not a pack, he would compare their bond to one. Their dynamics remind him of Yoongi and Hoseok and he suddenly misses his beta friend more than usual. He understands why the group never decided to create a bond between them but he also knows how much it gave his own friends and he feels a bit sad that they do not have this comfort in their lives.

He doesn’t even notice when his eyes begin to drop and he falls asleep, curled in the armchair like an armadillo. Jeongguk wakes him up with a soft caress on his cheek and hand, informing him that the guys have already left and he’s going to take Yeontan and Bam on a walk, so Taehyung can get ready for bed.

He tries to protest, while whining at the same time that he didn’t even thank the two alphas for their help but he’s still sleepy and groggy and Jeongguk just leads him to the bedroom door, promising he’ll be back soon. And just as he promised, he brings Tan back right when Taehyung finishes all of his evening routines.

“Thank you, Jeonggukie, it means a lot,” he says quietly when the alpha stands up after releasing Yeontan from the harness. “I mean both baby proofing and taking care of Tannie.”

“It’s not a problem, Tae. I like doing things for you.” Jeongguk smiles at him. “Now, go to sleep, it must’ve been uncomfortable in that armchair, I hope your back doesn’t hurt too much. Do you have another massage scheduled?”

“Yeah, but in a new place, I hope it’s going to be better,” Taehyung yawns. “I’m sorry, I’m going to check the paintings tomorrow, I’m too sleepy for it now.”

“Of course, let me know if there’s something to correct. I went through all of them after guys left and I think we did quite a good job but if you don’t like something I will repaint it.”

“I’m sure it’s fine. Oh, could you please put the armchair back in the living room before you go? It’s a bit too heavy for me.”

“Already done.” Jeongguk salutes jokingly and looks down at his dog when Bam whines quietly. “Okay, buddy. We’re going. Goodnight Tae, sweet dreams.”

“Goodnight, Jeonggukie.”

And it’s a good night indeed, as the whole apartment smells like Jeongguk, lulling Taehyung to sleep in a matter of seconds.

The next morning he examines the painting of bunnies and they turned out to be perfect. He can see that some were more troubled than others but it also looks like someone fixed them with more paint, making the overall effect more than satisfying.

Taehyung looks around the nursery, with a heavy heart. Nari is going to have her room walls painted by her alpha father and his friends. Once again he wishes they could be a family instead of having this weird situationship started with a doctor with a syringe.

He’s pulled back from his thoughts by a loud ringtone set specifically for his head alpha.

“Good morning, hyung,” he greets, leaving the nursery and going to sit on a couch in the living room.

“Hi, pup. How are you and our corn?”

“We’re great, we’re already after our morning walk and I think we’re going to write a bit today.”

“Good, good, you need to finish that book soon,” Yoongi hums and excuses himself for a second. Taehyung can hear him talking to someone and a minute later he’s back. “Sorry about that. Anyway, I was thinking about coming tomorrow and baby proofing the apartment? I know you can do the lockers and other light stuff but we need to immobilise the TV and some furniture. What do you think?”

The guilt immediately rises in Taehyung. The alpha sounds so excited and he hates himself that he needs to crush it. But it’s not like he’ll deproof everything now.

“Actually, everything is already done, hyung. Yesterday I met Jeongguk on my way from the shop and he offered to help.”

There’s a few beats of silence after those words and Taehyung kinda hates himself.

“It’s fine, pup. I hope the kid did a good job. But I could still come over with Jimin to paint those bunnies. I read that the paint in the nursery needs to dry for at least eight weeks before the baby comes.”

Now, that’s just not fair. It seems like this day doesn’t spare the two of them. One is set for disappointment and the other for a guilt trip.

“Hyung, that’s done too,” he admits quietly. And he knows there’s nothing wrong with it, there’s nothing wrong that Jeongguk helped him but he still feels like he betrayed his head alpha in a way. He tries to joke, to lighten the mood a bit, “It was a productive day. I even cooked, so imagine.”

But it doesn’t seem to work, as Yoongi lets out just a quiet “Oh,” at first and speaks again only a minute later. “That’s good, Tae, send a photo later when you have a minute.”

“How about you come over tomorrow with Jiminie anyway?” Taehyung rushes with a proposal before the alpha can go into a full sulking mode. “I could prepare elote and we could call Hoseok all together. And you could inspect if everything is done properly. I will feel safer if you check it.”

That appears to do the trick as Yoongi’s voice sounds a bit more cheerful when he agrees.

The next day the alpha acts as usual, cooing at Taehyung’s growing belly, taking Yeontan on a walk and later taking on himself preparation of lunch. He of course examines all the protections but it looks like Jeongguk and the rest of guys did a good job as he doesn’t complain about anything, except pointing out that one of the rabbits looks a bit scarred by life. After that he leaves the nursery to the kitchen and Jimin immediately turns to Taehyung.

“So, tell me everything.”

Taehyung chuckles but indulges his friend, actually happy to share the new developments in his situationship with Jeongguk.

“I’m so happy for you, Taehyungie,” Jimin says with a small smile, when he finishes. “Jeongguk seems like a very good man and alpha. I hope he will start courting you soon but I don’t think you have anything to worry about. It sounds like the guy is whipped already.”

“Do you think so?” he asks hesitantly. “Don’t you think it’s too early after his break up?”

“Well, every relationship is different and there’s no fixed time someone needs to wait before they are allowed to date again,” the omega points out and it sounds reasonable. “But when it finally happens you can just talk with him. I’m sure he’ll answer any questions you’ll have to ease your doubts.”

“You’re probably right. Communication is the key and all that jazz.”

“Exactly. But on the other note, Yoongi was pretty upset yesterday. I think it’s a bit hard for him that there’s someone other than him that is taking care of you now.”

Taehyung sighs. That’s what he was afraid of. “I figured. But I really wanted to spend time with Jeongguk and it feels so good when he takes care of us.”

“Taehyung-ah, don’t you dare to feel bad about building your happiness just because some alpha is sulking that he’s losing his position as the only alpha in your life,” Jimin threatens him, going even as far as jabbing him with a finger in the chest. “It was bound to happen eventually and Yoongi needs to get over it.”

“I just don’t want him to feel like I don’t need him anymore.”

“I know and he’ll know it too, soon. You said you’re going to ask him to go with us to your next check up?”

“Yeah, doctor Song asked me to bring some recordings and maybe we’ll be able to catch bunny’s reaction for some of them on ultrasound. I was planning to bring hyung’s music and now I think it's an even better idea than before.”

“That’s so sweet, I’m sure he’s going to love it. Oh Luna, I hope he’s gonna cry, I’m gonna have my camera ready.”

The both of them laugh at that and soon go back to the living room where Yoongi is already waiting with Hoseok on a TV screen. And while he sits down, Taehyung thinks back to the last evening’s thoughts about packs and he’s more grateful than ever to be able to spend a Saturday afternoon with his.

Chapter Text

Taehyung’s birth classes are finishing soon and except for Susanna, everyone is still very pregnant. Felix is the closest to his due date but he insists he wants to finish the course with everyone and Hyunjin can suck it.

They haven’t gotten really close but close enough for Taehyung to be sad the course is coming to an end. They have only two more classes and that will be it.

And Taehyung doesn’t feel more prepared for bunny’s arrival. Not at all.

If anything, he’s even more confused now. He might’ve learnt how to change diapers but he’s more nervous about the whole process of raising a tiny human being. He’s never been a type to lead, instead he’s always been the one who follows and avoids making decisions, especially on behalf of others. But for her he will be the most important guide, teacher, role model. In his hands, and his only, will lay the responsibility to at first shape her to some extent and then advise and give her right directions for the rest of her life, for as long as he’ll be around.

It’s a scary thought, especially having no proper parental model in his own life, he’s going to go blind into that and figure out everything on the way, with only the awareness of how the parenting for sure shouldn’t look like. And unfortunately, he’s afraid, it’s not a case where he can just “fake it till he makes it”. Every mistake might have negative consequences for his baby girl and that's the last thing he wants in this life.

His mind starts spiralling, listening to the teacher about first days of a newborn that they are going to spend together in the hospital, what to expect from the staff, what are their rights and what they can demand. And there too, he’s going to be all alone. Of course, he has his pack, heck, Hoseok even comes back to Korea to support him but it’s… different.

And no matter how much he’d want to, he can’t expect Jeongguk to be there for the two of them. Taehyung’s still not sure what is the alpha’s standing in this whole situation and what are his expectations. If he’s just a good friend and a neighbour or he wants to eventually become a constant in their life, a partner and a father.

After all, he’s not obliged to anything, he might cut the strings and they might become just people living in the same building, who nod curtly at each other when passing by in the entrance. Jeongguk’s never signed up for being a father and Taehyung is painfully aware of that.

He just hopes it will not end up in a heartbreak for him.

The fact that on Tuesday Taehyung has a visit at a new masseur doesn’t help. He’s been stressing himself and he could see Jeongguk was a bit concerned during their evening Monday walk. But he was not in the mood to pour out his anxieties, especially because a lot of them concern his conversation partner, and thankfully the alpha let him be.

So now Taehyung is standing in front of Namjoon’s gym and gathers strength to go inside. He’s never visited this place before so he is not sure what to expect, even if Seokjin assured him everything is going to go smoothly as his mate deeply cares about the comfort of his clients.

Finally he opens the door and immediately notices the owner chatting with the receptionist. With a relief he registers that the whole room is scentless.

“Taehyung-ah! Come here, we’ve already issued a card for you, you just need to sign here-” Namjoon points at the spot and after briefly reading the paper, Taehyung leaves his signature. “-and off we go. First we have changing rooms, your card works for the lockers, here are massage rooms and when you go further there’s a fitness room and a gym, with more changing rooms and showers. San-ssi is already waiting for you in the room. I know you are sceptical about alphas but I promise, all omegas are in love with him even though he works here for only a few weeks. He’s also happily mated so don’t worry, he’s not going to hit on you.”

The whole place doesn't smell of anything, even though the gym is in a further part of the building, the sweaty odour of alphas would reach him here for sure if they didn’t use scent blockers. He should’ve come here in the first place.

“Thanks, hyung. I hope he’s as good as you and Jinnie-hyung claim him to be, I really need my muscles to relax or I’m going to die,” he tries to joke but Namjoon must know there’s a hit of truth in there and he ushers him to go inside.

“Enjoy, Taehyung-ah.”

The omega turns around after closing the door and stands face to face with an alpha brightly smiling at him.

“Hello! I’m Choi San and I’m going to be your masseur for today.” The man bows deeply and gestures to the chair. “I’d like to ask you a couple of questions before we start.”

The conversation makes Taehyung already feel hopeful. San asks him about his pregnancy, how far along he is, what kind of pains he experiences and how often, if there are any movements that cause discomfort and so on. He interjects in between also innocent questions about the gender or name of bunny. It eases Taehyung’s nerves and he can feel himself relax with each passing minute.

That seems to satisfy the masseur as he finally gets up and gestures at the door, Taehyung hasn’t noticed before. The whole layout of the room is blatantly similar to the one he visited before but the atmosphere here is way different. And it’s not like Hoseok wasn’t nice, he was, very. But San has something in him that makes Taehyung feel safe.

The alpha’s sharp face features contrast strongly with soft eyes that keep a steady gaze on Taehyung, showing him an undivided attention of their owner. He’s quite buff, and even though he’s taller than Taehyung, he gives an impression of a ‘gentle giant’, everything in him screaming ‘softie’.

Maybe he just reminds him of another kind hearted alpha, also full of contradictions but combined together, they make Taehyung’s safe place.

“Please, go get yourself ready. I’m going to prepare everything if you could just tell me which scents you are comfortable with.”

The question makes Taehyung like San even more. “Everything is fine, except lavender.”

“Got it!”

He just prays now that the alpha’s massage skills are as impeccable as promised to him.

And thank Luna, they are. Taehyung claims San’s hands to possess some magical properties which the masseur comments with an embarrassed laughter and shy gratitude. He's an absolute delight and Taehyung’s really happy the previous experience didn’t stop him from coming here today.

At the beginning of the session San asked Taehyung if he'd prefer to talk during their session, listen to the music or stay in silence and told him to feel free to let him know at the beginning of each session what mood he’s in.

And because the alpha seemed nice, he decided it might be nice to have a conversation. The alpha ends up telling him about his masseur experience and his family.

“Four pups?!” Taehyung turns around to look at San shocked. “You look so young.”

The alpha laughs and gently prods him to turn back and relax, so he can continue working on his loins.

“Well, me and my mate are high school sweethearts and our firstborn was kinda oops baby, born right after our graduation. And because both me and Wooyoungie wanted a big family, since we already had one we decided why wait? Fast forward five years and our fourth is turning three months next week.”

“That’s amazing. And so sweet.” Taehyung smiles and closes his eyes, when he can feel the pressure on the bottom of his spine going away. “Your mate is lucky to have your skills on a daily basis at home.”

San chuckles again and moves to massage him a bit up along the spine. “He’s actually the reason I became a masseur. The first pregnancy took a toll on him and he needed massages basically every day. So I sped my way through a course so I could relieve his pain and it turned out I’m kinda good at it.”

“Kinda good?” Taehyung groans when another knot in his back is mercilessly massaged away. “If massage was an olympic discipline you would bring Korea gold medals every freaking Games.”

“Sounds stretched but thank you. It’s really gratifying when the clients are satisfied.”

“You’re doing a good job so you have satisfied customers. It’s as simple as that.”

They keep chatting and Taehyung doesn’t even notice when an hour passes. He tries to hide his disappointment that his bliss time is over but he’s clearly unsuccessful, judging by San’s laughter. He thanks the alpha profusely and promises to see him next week.

After changing back into his clothes, he goes to the reception to schedule next appointments, just to find Namjoon waiting for him there already.

“So? What’s the verdict?” the gym owner asks, expectantly.

“It was amazing. Thank you, you chose well.” Taehyung smiles. “I’d like to book more visits.”

“That’s great to hear. Not gonna lie, I was nervous since you told me to choose a masseur on my own but San-ssi is a professional and he’s so nice too. I had a feeling you may hit it off together.”

Initially, Taehyung is planning to sign up for one month in advance but after Namjoon’s encouragement, he decides on all three months until his due date. His friend assured him he can cancel any time but San’s gaining popularity so it’s safer for the omega to secure his spot.

They keep chatting when a familiar figure enters the reception from the gym section.

“Tae? Hi, what are you doing here?” Jeongguk’s face lights up with his signature bunny smile and instantly joins them at the desk, bowing slightly. “Hello, Namjoon-ssi.”

“Jeongguk, hi. I just had my massage. I had no idea you’re working out at hyung’s gym.” Taehyung smiles at the alpha, seizing the opportunity to ogle his fit body in a tank top. Thank Luna this place requires scent blockers.

“I didn’t know you knew the owner,” the man chuckles. “How was the massage? Better luck this time?”

“Yes! San is a delight, I already scheduled appointments till my due date.”

“San? Choi San?”

“The very same, you know him?”

“We’ve run into each other at the gym after his work a few times,” the alpha hums. “I’m glad it worked out.” He then turns to the receptionist, passing his card to her. “I’d like to extend my membership.”

“Miyeun-ah, give Jeongguk-ssi a discount,” Namjoon interjects and the omega nods quickly.

“The usual one, sir?” She proceeds with the procedure after the confirmation.

Jeongguk looks at the gym owner with wide eyes. “Namjoon-ssi, that’s not necessary, really.”

“Nonsense. Every friend of Taehyung-ah is my friend and what's the point of being the business owner if I can’t treat my friends.” The alpha waves his hand dismissively and at first Jeongguk seems like he accepts the explanation but when the receptionist asks him to pay, his eyes almost bulge out of his skull.

“This- This is too much, Namjoon-ssi-”

“Please, it’s nothing, really.” The look his friend fixes Taehyung with and a sly smirk raises alarms in Taehyung’s head. “Besides, you are a kin of my future daughter-in-law, you are more than eligible for the discount.”

“Hyung!” The omega gasps mortified. He is not sure if more because of indirectly calling Jeongguk a family or the unknown before sly side of his friend.

“Sorry, Taehyungie, you know that when Jinnie-hyung sets his mind on something, there is no way to stop him.” The gym owner checks his wrist watch. “I’m starting my session with a client in 10 minutes, I gotta go. See you on Monday, Tae. And see you soon, Jeongguk-ssi.”

There’s an awkward silence while Jeongguk pays and Taehyung wonders if he should just go and drive home and ditch their evening walk today. Or maybe it’s awkward just for him because Jeongguk looks like he is trying to contain his laughter.

They leave the building and walk in the direction of the parking lot and it’s only then that Taehyung decides to speak.

“Please, dress up, you’re going to be sick.” His voice is quiet and he is not even sure why he feels so flustered. It was just teasing but the implications behind Namjoon’s words were clear. He didn’t call Jeongguk Nari’s father probably only out of respect to Taehyung as he knows from Seokjin that they are not at this stage yet. Might never be.

He only hopes Jeongguk didn’t find it as an overstepping of boundaries.

“I’ll be fine, Tae, it’s really warm today. Are you okay?”

“Yeah, it’s nothing.”

“Do you feel remorseful because you agreed to the arranged marriage for your daughter before she’s even born?”

Taehyung groans loudly at that, making Jeongguk burst into laughter. “I was really hoping their little boy will take more from Joonie-hyung but right now I’m afraid he’s going to be a rascal no matter what.”

“It’s cute, honestly. Bunny is going to have a play friend from the very beginning. It’s funny how you two got pregnant at the same time, was it planned?”

They are already next to Taehyung’s car but Jeongguk doesn’t seem to be interested in going away. He just stands there, leaning against the side of the driver's door, looking at Taehyung with his huge, curious eyes. Not that Taehyung complains. 

Though he really starts to need to pee. Damn his pregnancy bladder.

“We actually met at the yoga class for pregnant omegas, so no, no planning was involved.” he smiles and fiddles with his keys. “Would you like me to give you a lift home?”

Jeongguk sighs and looks over his shoulder for a second.

“I’d love to ditch my car and go with you but I’m gonna need it tomorrow morning.” He pushes himself back to stand straight. “But I’ll see you tonight?”

“Of course.”

He watches as the alpha leaves slowly to his car and feels a familiar stretch in his belly. He caresses it lightly, hoping to calm down a tiny being inside him a little.

“Yeah, I know. I don’t like it when he’s away either.”

Friday is the day of Taehyung’s glucose screening to which he’s taken to by his head alpha. After the little hiccup with baby proofing, the omega wants to ensure his friend doesn’t feel pushed aside or expendable. He called Yoongi the day before and the man was more than happy at the request. Jimin sent Taehyung a message later, that his mate spent the whole evening reading about the test and next steps in case the results are not good. The two omegas keep joking that Yoongi is going to be the most prepared alpha father for his mate’s pregnancy but it’s actually funny because it’s true. Jimin is going to be in good hands. A little bit overprotective, yes, but caring and loving more than any others. If Taehyung feels taken care of and protected, he can only imagine how lovely this journey is going to be to his omega packmate with such a caring mate at his side.

The test results are textbook and the two can go home in peace. Yoongi took the entire day off and after Taehyung mentioned he’s been a bit moody lately, he decides to spend the day with him. While the alpha takes care of the house cores that Taehyung’s been neglecting lately (he’s growing a life in him, he’s allowed to sometimes be too tired to vacuum), Taehyung himself gets on rebuilding his nests. Both the main one in his bedroom and in the relax zone in the living room.

It’s been irking him lately, the way they are constructed, the textures used and the scents that faded away. Now everything just smells like Taehyung and he hates it. There’s no safety in his nests. No protection for him and his pup. Any person that would come to Taehyung’s apartment would immediately assume that the two of them do not belong to anyone. That they have only each other.

Which is not true, because there’s an acorn squash soup on a stove made by Jimin, acorn squash baking in the oven prepared by Yoongi and a package coming all the way from Los Angeles with clothes scented by Hobi - all that just for Taehyung and bunny. They do belong to someone.

It’s funny, really, how most days Taehyung feels perfectly fine and he can easily keep his emotions in check but there are also days, like this one, when the hormones take the reins and drag him through the horrible mood swings. It’s been coming for days now, so he just lets himself be pregnant with a pregnancy brain and his omega to act out because sometimes repressing him does not result in soothing the wolf.

So he constructs and plans and rebuilds for a better half of the day. Yoongi doesn’t get in his way, knowing Taehyung’s habits like the back of his hand from all of his preheat frenzy he witnessed in the pack house. Jimin loves his nests and is also very diligent in making them, seeking his alpha’s approval every time, but he is much less demanding than Taehyung. If he feels something is not right, it is enough for Yoongi, Hoseok or Taehyung to give him one more scented piece of cloth and Jimin is all happy and sated. As for Taehyung, everything has to be perfect, even if sometimes he himself doesn’t know what it means.

And today is one of those days. Yoongi brought with him clothes scented by Jimin and one blanket and a pillow that still smelled like Hoseok and that Jimin ended up not using for his nest. The alpha also scented without a blink of an eye the big pile of supplies that Taehyung prepared especially for the nest reorganisation. All of his pack scents were there. The day before he also received a few scarves from Seokjin and Namjoon which perfectly complement the constructions. But.

But it’s not good. It’s not enough and it’s not safe.

And hyung stays away for as long as he has things to do but when the apartment is clean, Yeontannie is tired with walk and play time, the dinner is cooked, the dessert is ready, he finally stands in a doorway to the master bedroom and sighs.

“Taehyung-ah.”

The omega looks up at him like a deer caught in the headlights, squeezing Jimin’s sweater between his hands with all his might. It’s cream colour, fluffy and soft, just how Taehyung likes Jimin’s parts the most. But it doesn’t want to fit anywhere.

“Pup, just go to him and ask.”

“Ask who?” Taehyung tilts his head, like a confused wolf, still partially driven by his inner omega.

“Jeongguk.”

“About what?”

Yoongi sighs again and after getting a nod of permission to enter the room, he walks in and sits on the bed, careful to not destroy anything or touch any part of the nest. “You know you’re missing his scent. It’s clear, everything is just as you like but somehow you keep disassembling and reassembling back to the same configuration all day. You won’t feel sated until you get his scent here. So just go and ask Jeongguk for scented clothes for your nests.”

And just like that, the pressure in Taehyung’s shoulders goes away. 

He knows what makes his nests far from perfect.

“But what if he thinks it’s weird?” he asks quietly, putting the sweater he’s been holding back in its original place at the back of head.

“Why would he?” Yoongi reaches out, patting Taehyung’s hair, still careful to not touch any clothes. “You are friends now. He cares for you and clearly likes you a lot. You got scarves from Jin and Joon, no?”

“I did,” the omega confirms in a pout and crawls out of the nest, to sit on the alpha's lap. “What if he says no anyway?”

“He won’t,” Yoongi assures him, caressing his back in soothing, circular motions. “But if he does, I’m gonna kick his ass.”

Taehyung giggles and rests his head on his head alpha’s shoulder. “He’s working out, you’d stand no chance with your flaccid arms.”

“You brat,” Yoongi pinches him on a side, making the omega squeak and squirm away. “Let’s go eat, hm? After that you can lie in your nest in the living room and we can watch some movie, what do you think?”

“Can we watch ‘Call me by your name’?” Taehyung looks at him with puppy eyes and even though Yoongi feels like rolling his eyes and groaning with full chest because they’ve watched this movie a hundred times, he’s going to watch it for a hundred first without a word of complaint.

“Of course.”

“And you will cuddle me in my nest?”

“Sure thing, pup.”

Yoongi’s words stick in Taehyung’s head for the entire Saturday and Sunday. 

“So just go and ask Jeongguk for scented clothes for your nests.”

“Just go and ask”. Great advice, Yoongi, really. There's nothing “just” in this sentence. It’s facing Taehyung’s biggest fear, opening himself for a rejection, for finding out if there is any chance for the two of them to become something more than just walk buddies.

Because Jeongguk is not dumb. He knows what it means when an omega asks an alpha for supplies for their nest. The only bigger sign of trust is to invite someone to the nest itself.

And to be honest, Taehyung is not that far from being there.

So he is at his wits’ end on the eve of the zucchini week and he’s already back after their evening walk and he still hasn’t mustered up the courage to ask Jeongguk. The alpha was unusually quiet and Taehyung hates it. Taehyung’s been weird himself lately and the alpha respectfully let him be but today it was different. Almost all of the walk they spent in silence and even when Taehyung tried to carry the conversation, he was just too stressed and Jeongguk didn’t seem keen on talking whatsoever.

He sits down on his bed after a shower, looking at his phone. There’s no usual message from JJG-130709 and it irks him even more than his own cowardly behaviour. He thinks for a few seconds and stands up.

He doesn’t change as he’s wearing his cute maternity homewear he uses as pyjamas and leaves the apartment before he can change his mind.

The wait for the elevator feels like years and the fear starts to creep under Taehyung’s skin again but when he’s about to turn around and go back home, the door opens and he gets inside with a sigh. It’s just one floor but he avoids taking stairs whenever he can.

He’s standing in front of Jeongguk’s door with a pounding heart. He starts to doubt if it is a good idea but the mere thought of going back to his sad nest makes his nose scrunch and he knocks on the door lightly. He’s pretty sure it’s impossible for any person inside to hear it but Bam barks almost immediately and the omega starts playing with the hem of his shirt nervously. This is it.

He can hear a voice trying to calm the dog down and the next moment the doorknob clicks and Jeongguk appears in the door. He seems surprised but still smiles at Taehyung softly.

“Tae? Hi, did something happen?” The quick once over to check if the omega is fine warms up Taehyung’s heart and eases his nerves a bit. It’s just Jeongguk. Kind, caring Jeongguk, who has never done anything to make Taehyung feel so anxious.

So he takes a deep breath. “My nests have been awful for the whole week, I can’t make them right no matter what I do. I’ve been weird because of that.”

“I’m so sorry, Tae.” Jeongguk furrows his brows in concern. “It must’ve been very hard for you. Now I feel like a dick because I thought you’re mad at me or something and I was moping around today instead of comforting you. I’m sorry.”

The confession makes Taehyung’s heart flutter. “Please, don’t be.” He gets nervous again. “I actually know what I need to make them feel right.”

“Yeah? What is it? Do you need me to pick something up for you?”

“Well, not exactly.” The omega eyes the t-shirt Jeongguk is wearing. It’s so big and the material seems so soft. It probably reeks of patchouli if that’s his sleepwear. “But you can help me.”

“Of course, Tae, anything. Just tell me what you need.” The alpha reaches out and caresses Taehyung’s arm.

“Do you think… Do you think you could give me something scented?” he asks shyly, avoiding the man’s eyes. The caress stops.

“Oh.”

‘Oh’? That doesn’t sound good.

“I’m sorry, forget that I asked-” he stops because the hand on his arm tightens its hold and he finally lifts his gaze.

The bright stars in the alpha’s eyes, that seem to make an appearance after his request, make all the nerves totally worth it.

After Jeongguk shrugged off his surprise he invites Taehyung inside his apartment and takes him to his wardrobe to choose whatever the omega wants. And it’s like Christmas came in May for Taehyung because after the enthusiastic approval from Jeongguk, he throws all his inhibitions out of the window.

He rummages through the clothes and takes out all the soft and fluffy fabrics that suddenly turn out to be essential parts for his nests. He can already envision where each piece will fit in, making both of the constructions the most perfect nests he’s ever built. By the time he stops himself, his arms are full of t-shirts, sweaters and jumpers and he’d probably choose more if only he had more space in his hands.

That actually makes Taehyung shake off of his daze realising that he must’ve chosen what seems like a half of Jeongguk’s clothes. He’s about to go through the things to decide on two, maybe four things when he hears the alpha enter the bedroom.

He hasn’t even noticed he left.

“This is not my best blanket but it’s clean and I scented it just now, so please check if it’s okay,” Jeongguk says, placing the folded comforter on the bed. He looks at wide eyed Taehyung standing with the pile of clothes and laughs softly. “Give it here, I’ll fold it for you and you can go back to prowling.”

“What?” The omega looks down at the stack in his arms. “It’s too much, I will take only two things, promise…”

“Tae, you clearly liked all of it, so it’s all yours, don’t worry about it.” Jeongguk takes everything from him and actually starts to fold it.

Taehyung looks between the alpha and his wardrobe for a couple of seconds and shyly grabs another soft turtleneck, figuring that with spring in full swing he’s not going to wear it anyway.

He then examines the blanket the alpha prepared for him and he needs to refrain himself from moaning. It’s freshly scented and the patchouli is so intense, Taehyung is pretty sure he would go into heat from the first sniff if he wasn’t pregnant. He looks at the alpha to thank him just to see him all focused on scenting each piece of clothing Taehyung’s chosen before folding it and putting it in a bag that Taehyung hasn’t noticed before.

Did he fall down the shaft in the elevator and instead of getting to the upper floor, he died and got to heaven? Because he’s going to get high on patchouli scent every time he’ll enter his nest.

“All set and ready,” Jeongguk announces proudly. “I will wash my blankets and I can give them to you tomorrow.”

But Taehyung doesn’t listen to him, busy staring intensely at the pillow on the bed. He imagines burying his face into it and falling asleep, covered with the scented blanket he’s currently holding and he needs to force himself to look away before he does something stupid like ask Jeongguk for the pillow or crawl into his bed.

“Huh?” he asks, realising he missed something the alpha said to him.

“I said I’m going to bring over more blankets tomorrow, when they are washed,” Jeongguk repeats with a smile and without a question packs the pillow in the bag. “Would you like to choose something else?” When Taehyung denies, after looking quickly at the t-shirt he’s wearing, he closes the bag and picks it up. “Ok then, let’s go.”

“What?”

“I told you before, you’re not going to carry anything when I’m around. I’ll turn a blind eye on a blanket because I’m afraid you’d scratch my eyes out if I try to take it away from you.” Jeongguk winks at him teasingly and Taehyung can feel his cheeks flare up in shame.

“Stop teasing me. I’m pregnant,” he mumbles, making the alpha laugh.

“And sensitive, I know. Come on, you big baby.”

Jeongguk teases him the entire way to his apartment and it appears that the alpha’s enjoyment grows in direct proportion to Taehyung’s embarrassment and the intensity of redness of his cheeks. By the time he opens his door, he regrets even leaving his apartment. A few scented clothes were not worth it.

Totally worth it.

“Okay, okay, I’m sorry,” the alpha chuckles after receiving a hundredth glare and puts the bag on the small puff in the entrance hall. “Well, I’m not, not really. You’re way too cute when I mess with you.”

The comment makes Taehyung even more flustered and he whines to make him stop.

“Okay, that was the last one, I promise.” Jeongguk lifts his hands in surrender. “Are you sure you’ve got everything you need?”

“I have more than enough, Jeongguk-ah, thank you so much.”

“I will bring you more blankets tomorrow, I already put them to wash, so you can exchange this one if you want.”

“This one is perfect, I already feel bad for stealing all of those things from you.” Taehyung pouts.

He blinks in surprise, when Jeongguk takes his hand and intertwines their fingers. “Don’t. Tell me when the scent wears off or when you need more supplies. Don’t hesitate, please.”

“Okay,” he whispers with a small smile.

Is this alpha even real? He doesn’t seem real since the day they met but lately it’s even more suspicious. Because there’s no way someone this perfect for Taehyung exists.

“Good, I’ll go now, then.”

Taehyung nods and eyes the t-shirt the man is wearing one last time. One day he’ll be brave enough to ask for it, he promises himself.

But then Jeongguk lets go of his hand, grabs the neckline of the clothing and pulls it off of himself. Taehyung watches with wide eyes as he throws it on top of the bag and, totally unbothered by his shirtless state, straightens back with a soft, delicate smile. “Goodnight, Tae.”

And then he takes the omega’s hand into his once again, leaning down to leave a soft kiss on Taehyung’s forehead. He steps back, still smiling warmly and finally turns away to get into the elevator.

Taehyung only hopes the alpha can't hear the squeal he releases the moment the door closes.

Chapter Text

The night turning acorn squash into zucchini week is the best night of sleep for Taehyung since he can remember. He wakes up rested and full of energy for the day. The weather outside is perfect and he walks around with Yeontan for almost an hour, going as far as to the bakery on the other side of the park to buy and eat breakfast in fresh air.

When they get back he even manages to edit one chapter of his new book before he needs to leave for the birth class.

“Wow, Tae, you’re glowing today!” Jackson smiles when Taehyung enters the classroom.

“You’re suspiciously happy, what happened?” Seokjin narrows his eyes, as if he’s trying to read his soul. If anyone would be able to do that, then it’s probably the omega.

“Bet his alpha made a move. Or maybe it was Taehyungie.”

“If any of them made a move this century, that would have to be Jeongguk.”

“Hey! It was me actually,” Taehyung huffs, sitting down between Jin and Vicky.

“So it is about a boy,” she snickers.

“Well… I asked him for scented clothes for my nests.”

There’s a collective gasp from his friends so, preening, Taehyung tells them the events of the previous evening. All the omegas, including Felix who arrived in the middle of the story, fawn over Jeongguk’s supportive attitude and they agree it’s just a matter of time before the alpha decides to pursue Taehyung officially. He can’t deny he’s delighted by it. He’s still a bit concerned if it’s not too early but selfishly he wants that, he wants the alpha for himself and he trusts that Jeongguk wouldn’t give him yesterday such a clear sign he’s interested in him, if he was not ready.

And it seems like his friends were right with their prediction that the dating life is waiting for him just around the corner. Jeongguk doesn’t mention anything yet but before their evening walk he shows up at Taehyung’s door with Bam and the small pile of blankets, just like he promised last night. And Taehyung is just a weak, weak omega and accepts all of them, not giving back the one he already received, but Jeongguk doesn’t mention it either.

The alpha puts harness on Yeontan while Taehyung gets ready and the moment the door is locked, he takes Taehyung’s hand in his. He doesn’t give him the leash, walking both dogs together.

He doesn’t even say anything, he just… does things. As if that was perfectly normal. Taehyung is so stunned, he doesn’t question anything and stays silent, only listening to Jeongguk’s blabbering, highly aware of the thumb constantly caressing his knuckles.

He tries to focus, because the alpha sounds very excited telling him all about his dad’s birthday this weekend and how he and his appa are organising a surprise party for him. Apparently Jeongguk pretends to not be able to go to Busan and his dad thinks they are going to celebrate as a family another time.

“Also, Mingyu and Yugyeom finally scheduled the date for our rock climbing trip and we’re going on the first weekend of June.”

And then he continues telling Taehyung about their destination and all the fun activities the two alphas planned for their group. It’s nothing new, Jeongguk was telling him about his plans before as well, but the omega can feel that the purpose is somehow different now. It’s not just for the sake of having a conversation but to actually inform Taehyung. Because something changed between them and Jeongguk’s plans, even if Taehyung isn’t directly involved in them, are relevant to him as well.

The realisation makes the omega’s heart beat a bit faster.

On Tuesday even his masseur notices the change in Taehyung’s mood. Which says a lot, considering all the employees and customers of the gym are obliged to use scent blockers and that San’s seen him only once before.

“You’re much more relaxed today,” the alpha points out and Taehyung hums.

“Yeah, I managed to go to the swimming pool today before coming here.”

“It surely helps, you can keep it up. But it’s not just that, I don’t know how to explain it but your body is much more… malleable.”

“I’ve had a very good weekend, maybe that’s it.”

“Probably. Anyway, I wanted to talk with you about something. You’re starting your third trimester soon, the massages will help but once a week might be too seldom. It depends on a person really but also on a pregnancy. Woo’s first and third pregnancies were nightmares but the other two went easy on him. You mentioned you don’t have a mate, who could massage you at home so you could think about investing in an electric heating pad to relax your muscles. Some people prefer applying cold but I’ve noticed you do not react well to it.”

He then proceeds to explain how to use such pads during pregnancy to ensure pup’s safety and not cause more damage than good. Taehyung’s not sure if the knowledge San possesses is caused by good education or it comes solely from the experience but he appreciates it nonetheless. He has his “to do” list and he remembers reading about the heating pads but in his eyes it looked like a way to make a bunny stew inside his belly.

After sharing his concerns with Jeongguk during their walk, the alpha suggests talking with his ob-gyn during the next visit.

“I’m sure San-ssi wouldn’t put anything dangerous anywhere near his mate or pups but just to keep bunny and you safe, discuss it with your doctor,” he leans in and places a kiss on Taehyung’s temple.

The sudden spike of happiness in Taehyung’s scent makes the alpha laugh and, to Taehyung’s delight, he kisses him again.

For a brief moment, Taehyung wished he was going to the visit just with Jimin as usual so he would be able to fanboy with him over the progress in his relationship with Jeongguk but the very second he gets in Yoongi’s car and the smell of petrichor saturated with happiness and excitement hits him right in the face, he’s very glad the omegas are not going alone.

Sitting on the passenger seat, he observes his head alpha with a fond smile, exchanging amused looks with Jimin who sits in the backseat. Yoongi looks like he’s about to vibrate out of the car and the two friends know the whole day is going to get so much better for him. Because safely in Taehyung’s pocket, there’s a flash drive full of Yoongi’s music.

The alpha has no idea they will try to catch bunny’s expressions on the ultrasound and that doctor Song advised Taehyung to bring the recordings of the sounds he thinks his pup enjoys.

And he knows Nari loves it because she always makes specific movements, he’s already associated with happiness, the moment he plays it for her. She does those happy kicks for Yoongi’s music, french fries, baths, Taehyung’s voice and Jeongguk’s scent. Pretty reasonable if you ask Taehyung.

The three of them arrive at the clinic and Jimin keeps caressing Yoongi’s back in a calming manner all the way to the doctor’s office. The two omegas are already familiar with the whole process so they take their seats while Yoongi stands between the door and chair next to Taehyung, clearly uncomfortable.

“Come here, hyung. You can sit here so you have the best view of the screen,” Taehyung points at the chair that’s right in front of the monitor. They agreed beforehand with Jimin that the omega’s going to record Yoongi’s reactions so he will not take his usual seat next to Taehyung. He will see well enough anyway but this visit is mostly for hyung. To see that the first pup in the pack already loves her uncle Yoongi.

Doctor Song performs the usual check, asking lots of questions about Taehyung’s physical and mental wellbeing. He assures the omega that the electric heating pad is perfectly safe for both him and the pup when used according to the guidance, though if he’s going to be stressed, which would be the opposite of the pad’s purpose, he might want to consider the alternatives.

“Shall we get to the ultrasound? Did you bring something for today, Taehyung-ssi?”

Yoongi looks surprised at the flash drive Taehyung gives to the doctor but doesn’t question it. At first the doctor goes through normal ultrasound screening, measuring the pup and ensuring everything looks fine. Even then Yoongi seems emotional, his hand resting on top of Taehyung’s shakes slightly, while the other one covers his mouth. The omega’s heart squeezes in his chest and he knows Jimin is equally moved, staring at his mate with so much love in his eyes, Taehyung’d have to look away if he wasn’t so used to it by now. Now the sight only brings warmth to his chest. The knowledge that his two most favourite people in the world are happy and in love brings only peace to his mind.

He doesn’t even notice when doctor Song plugs the flash drive to the computer, he only hears him saying to pay attention to Nari’s face and then he plays the first song. Taehyung can see Yoongi’s surprised expression the moment his song “People” starts playing from the speakers but then he averts his eyes to the monitor. As much as he’d like to see his hyung's reaction, he wants to see Nari’s even more. Besides, Jimin is already sneakily recording the alpha so he’ll watch it later.

He can feel (and see) the familiar happy kick and right then, on the screen the tiny pup smiles, ever so slightly, but it’s clear it is a smile. The hand that was only resting on his til now, clenches at it tightly.

“Oh my Luna,” Yoongi chokes out and that makes Taehyung look back at him.

His friend is staring at the monitor with tears streaming down his face. Jimin nest to him is in a similar state.

“She loves your music, hyung,” Taehyung whispers wetly with a smile and that makes the alpha sob out loudly.

He covers his eyes and goes full on crying. Jimin records him for a few more seconds but then he pockets the phone and hugs his mate reassuringly.

“Oh you soft alpha. Crying his eyes out because your niece smiles at your music,” Jimin coos and pats Yoongi’s hair. The man sags into his mate’s embrace, still holding Taehyung’s hand tightly.

“I’m gonna write her thousands of songs,” the alpha sobs and as if she heard him, Nari smiles again on the screen. “Oh Moon Goddess, I think I have a heart attack.”

The two omegas laugh out loud and Jimin nuzzles his mating mark. “You are so sweet, my love.”

“There’s nothing sweet in me dying.”

“You are not dying, what you’re feeling are emotions,” Taehyung jokes, making the other omega cackle and Yoongi looks at him with a distaste. But his gaze softens immediately and he caresses Taehyung’s hand.

“Thank you, Tae. This… This means so much to me, you have no idea. Just… thank you.”

“You know, you’re asking what kind of person you are - in the song, I mean.” Taehyung smiles at his friend. “‘You’re that kind that soaks into heart’.”*

He can’t stop grinning when he recalls the whole visit to Jeongguk the next day. They couldn’t meet on the same day, as Taehyung spent the night at the pack house, nesting with his packmates and calling Hoseok who cried as soon as he watched the video.

Of course, he texted Jeongguk and messaged him about everything but that doesn’t stop the omega from going through it again. They even watch the recording twice and that part is new to Jeongguk because that is the thing Taehyung hasn’t shared with him yet.

The alpha keeps cooing at the video and he seems to not care that the ultrasound on it is just a greyish blob,

“It’s still sweet, Taehyungie. Bunny has Yoongi-ssi already wrapped around her little finger.”

Or that he has to trust Taehyung’s words that bunny smiled.

“I’m sure she did if you say so, Tae.”

“It might actually be good, it's not visible,” Taehyung admits after pocketing his phone. “I decided on 3D ultrasound just for this one visit and never again. She looked kinda like an alien.”

“Dear Luna, don’t say that!” Jeongguk laughs so loud it makes Yeontan yell at him in surprise. “Sorry, buddy. She’s not an alien and I’m sure she’s beautiful. I mean, look at us. With such genes she has no other choice but to be gorgeous.”

There’s again that light caress on Taehyung’s knuckles and he blushes. Does that mean Jeongguk finds him beautiful? He’s never complimented him like this, so every suggestion he might do, sends Taehyung’s mind into spiralling. If a teasing comment puts him in such a state, how is he going to react if faced with a straightforward compliment?

They walk around longer than usual, both clearly have missed the other a bit more than expected after the whole day of being apart, so different from their routine. But at some point they have to go back home because there’s only so much Taehyung’s sore feet are able to handle and even if it’s already May and spring, the evenings still get a bit cool.

Jeongguk and Bam follow Taehyung and Yeontan on their floor and the omega doesn’t question it. It happens more often than not anyway, besides he’s never going to turn down an opportunity to spend more time with Jeongguk. He enters the apartment to take off his jacket and release Yeontan.

“Tae?”

He turns to the alpha who has already taken Yeontan out of his harness and is now looking at him nervously. “What’s wrong, Jeongguk-ah?”

“No, no, everything’s fine, don’t worry.” The man gulps and takes off his backpack. Taehyung's been curious about the thing all evening, as Jeongguk rarely takes anything for their walks except his dog, phone, wallet, keys and himself. After a few seconds, the alpha pulls out the small package and places the backpack on the floor. He clears his throat before continuing. “So, initially I wanted to ask you on a date.”

The gasp that leaves Taehyung must bring some courage to Jeongguk, because he smiles sweetly and when he speaks again, he sounds a bit more confident. “But I realised I’m going to Busan tomorrow and I won’t be able to see you at least until Sunday, maybe Monday.” Taehyung pouts at that but doesn’t say anything. “So because I won’t be able to spend the weekend with you, I got you something that maybe will make it a bit nicer for you.”

He hands him the mysterious package and after a brief look at the alpha, Taehyung tears through the paper, impatient to see what is inside. At first he can’t understand what the flat cushion covered with cute, tiny bunnies is but Jeongguk is quick to explain, “It’s a heating pad but it’s microwaveable. I know your doctor said the electric one is safe but I think both you and me are not really convinced so I read a bit and a lot of people recommended those things. I know you have a microwave at home and I decided it’s a better choice than a classic water bottle.”

Taehyung stares at the gift in his hands for a few seconds, at a loss for words. He was actually going to read about those alternatives today and either order something or go shopping on the weekend. But it looks like he doesn’t have to. The alpha took care of it and made sure to help relieve Taehyung’s pains as well as he can. And he didn’t even have much time for that, so either he worked really intensely during the last 24 hours or he started the research earlier.

Both options bring the butterflies in Taehyung’s belly back to life.

Before the alpha can panic because of his lack of reaction, Taehyung puts the pad on the puff and surges forward to wrap his arms around Jeongguk. When his embrace is returned he buries his face in a solid chest, sighing happily. 

“Thank you.” There’s a big urge in him to scent the alpha, to leave his mark, even if just a temporary one like smell that is going to wear away in a matter of few hours, so instead he tightens his hold, as much as an obstacle in the form of his baby bump lets him to. “I love it.”

“I’m glad,” Jeongguk murmurs in Taehyung’s hair and they stay like this for a couple of moments. “Tae?”

He only hums in response.

“Could I take you out when I come back from Busan?”

Taehyung looks up from the place he’s been hiding his face till now. “Out?”

“Yeah, we could grab a nice dinner somewhere. You’ve mentioned lately you miss restaurant food.” Jeongguk caresses his cheek lightly and smirks. “Will you let me wine you and dine you?”

“I can’t drink wine.”

“Aish,” he chuckles and kisses the tip of Taehyung’s nose. “It’s an expression. I’m trying to flirt here. So what do you say?”

“I’m pretty sure you already know the answer.” 

It's very suggestive and Taehyung feels a bit vulnerable but the alpha took a leap, so he can do it too.

“I actually don’t and I am slightly nervous, so help a man out, please.”

“Jeongguk-ah,” he smiles at him fondly. This man is so precious and it looks like it’s not so out of reach anymore to make him Taehyung’s. “Of course I will go out with you.”

The bunny smile he’s rewarded with unfailingly sets his heart into a frenzied rush. And soon enough there will be another one of that smile in his life.

Jeongguk leans in and for a second Taehyung’s mind goes crazy thinking the alpha is going to kiss him, but instead he nuzzles their noses together, with a contented sigh. They stay in this position for a bit longer and Taehyung is not even disappointed.

Everything will happen in its own time.

Chapter Text

Needless to say, Taehyung spends the entire weekend in his nest, surrounded by Jeongguk’s scent and snuggled by the warm gift from the alpha. His hips are giving him a tough time, so Jeongguk couldn’t come at a better time with the present. 

The two keep texting the whole time and Jeongguk floods him with photos of the birthday party of his dad, so in return Taehyung sends him cute photos of Yeontan snuggling with bunny, to which the alpha answers with an excessive amount of heart emojis.

The sudden increase of cosiness and comfort of his nest spurs Taehyung’s inspiration and on Sunday evening he finds himself with a finished first draft of his book. He’s so happy, he immediately texts Jeongguk and his pack, all of them congratulating him and expressing how proud they are. His omega preens under the praises, especially from the man, he soon hopes to become his alpha.

They don’t see each other until Monday evening though, as it turns out no matter what age, an omega father still takes it hard every time he needs to say goodbye to his pup. Even if the said pup is a grown man and moved out years ago. Jeongguk whines about it the very second he and Bam pick Taehyung and Yeontan at their door, but Taehyung doesn’t mind the time they were apart. Well, he does in some sense, but he thinks it’s sweet how great the relationship Jeongguk has with his parents and he knows the alpha cherises those visits to the South.

Following his masseur’s advice, he again attends the swimming pool before going to the gym and San compliments him on it. According to him, it makes the massages more effective and Taehyung must admit he’s right. He feels much better already and the positive effects last longer and longer with each visit.

He doesn’t meet Jeongguk at the local pool anymore, the alpha has too much work lately to leave his office during working hours but they always chat a bit at the gym and drive back to their building car after car.

As always they give themselves more or less an hour to take a shower and otherwise get ready for a walk, so when the doorbell rings, Yeontan doesn’t bark but sprints to the entrance, wagging his tail. Good to know Taehyung is not the only one excited.

Of course he doesn’t check the peephole, more than sure who is on the other side, so he freezes surprised when he opens the door and is faced with a huge bouquet of sunflowers. He stares at it with a pounding heart and after a few moments there is a pair of doe eyes peeping at him from above the flowers.

“Hi,” the alpha greets and his eyes crinkle. He lowers the bouquet, so finally Taehyung can see all of his smiley face. “You look beautiful, Tae.”

The omega blushes and hides his face in one hand. Admittedly, he put a little extra effort in choosing his outfit today (just because he felt like it), so he appreciates that Jeongguk notices.

“Thank you. What is this?”

“Well, I came to ask you something, so I couldn’t come empty handed.”

The omega tilts his head at the solemn tone and accepts the flowers. “Okay? I’m all ears.”

“Will you go out with me on Friday? As in on a date.”

Taehyung looks at him owlishly. And really, he shouldn’t be surprised, just before his trip to Busan, Jeongguk mentioned he wanted to ask him out. But he is surprised. It’s that moment in life that you dreamed about for so long, imagined it, created all kinds of scenarios in your head, daydreaming of different ways it could come alive, that when it actually happens - you can’t believe it’s real.

Your brain stops functioning because it’s like experiencing derealisation but not always in the negative sense of this word. Like right now for Taehyung.

Because the man of his dreams has just come to pick him up for their daily walk, gifted him with his favourite flowers and asked out on a date.

He feels a bit dizzy and the omega in him howls in delight, trying to call Jeongguk’s alpha and accept on behalf of his human.

And judging by Jeongguk’s soft smile, maybe he actually somehow reached him.

“I- Of course, Jeonggukie. I’d love to go out with you,” Taehyung finally answers, feeling the heat creeping up all over his face, not just cheeks, and not waiting for the alpha’s reaction, he runs inside the apartment to find a vase for the bouquet.

It’s a bit tricky to prepare everything with hands shaking like he was in the North Pole without gloves, but somehow he manages not to break anything. When he comes back to the door, Jeongguk is squatting and petting two dogs, which are lying down, bellies up and tongues out, both happy about getting scratches. The sight warms the omega’s heart and for a few seconds he just stands in the entrance and stares at them.

Finally they look at him, seemingly all three sensing him at the same time. Jeongguk smiles in his bunny manner.

“Ready, you two?” the alpha asks and a bit overwhelmed Taehyung can only nod.

They leave hand in hand, Jeongguk holding both leashes in the other one and Taehyung hugging his baby bump with his free arm.

When Taehyung updates Seokjin on the development in his relationship with Jeongguk, his friend is more than delighted. They are at their Thursday yoga class and Taehyung’s mind is running only around the topic of his tomorrow date and issue of what to wear.

Jimin advised him to wear the most slutty thing he owns. Taehyung left him on read.

“You see, Taehyungie,” Jin grunts, while lifting his hips into a reverse tabletop pose. “We all told you it’s just a matter of time and you didn’t want to believe us.”

“You can’t blame me,” he sighs, trying to control his breath. His hips and groynes are killing him lately. “I didn’t want to feed myself with false hope in case it would all go to hell. I needed to protect myself.”

“Sure, that was smart of you. But I had a feeling it was a foregone conclusion. Especially after that night at the bar. Which by the way we need to repeat.”

“Sounds like a plan. But now help me decide what to wear. Jiminie is absolutely useless in this matter.”

“What are you doing?”

“Jeongguk made a reservation in some restaurant. He said it’s nothing over the top and he’d aim for smart casual .”

“Well, that shouldn’t be difficult for you, it’s like perfect for your wardrobe,” Seokjin snickers and Taehyung sends him a glare. “Wear something that’s gonna accentuate your bump. I’m sure he loves it, just doesn’t tell you. Joonie is going more and more crazy about it each week. Which reminds me, if you haven’t started your kegel exercises now is high time. You just unlocked another benefit of it.”

The omega groans hearing his words but doesn’t protest. He’s never gonna admit it out loud, because he’d never hear the end of it, but he’s been thinking about it himself. Of course, he has it on his “to do” list and he’d start soon anyway but now the thing that didn’t matter to him that much when he was getting prepared for the pregnancy, became much more convincing for him to start with the exercises. Because even before their first date, Taehyung already can’t wait to have sex with Jeongguk, so if doing Kegels might help with making sex even more enjoyable, the omega is not going to pass on that opportunity.

“Just send me photos when you have a dilemma tomorrow,” Seokjin adds, breaking Taehyung out of his thoughts.

“Yeah, sounds right.”

He’s not sending any photos. As if out of spite, Taehyung’s fate decides to keep him almost bedridden the entire day and he’s been stressing about whether he would be forced to cancel the date. It’s the last thing he wants but all signs on heaven and Earth indicate that might be the case.

Everything starts during the walk with Yeontan. The previously dull discomfort suddenly turns into sharp pain and throbbing aches in his hips and groyne and he immediately rushes back home, thanking Luna that Yeontan is a good puppy and does his business right away. So even if the pomeranian would like to run around a bit more, he doesn’t give him any attitude, probably sensing his owner’s distress.

His mind goes to the message he received right after waking up.

JJG-130709: good morning, Tae! hope you’re gonna have a beautiful day! can’t wait for our date tonight <3

He can’t wait either and he hopes that by the evening he’s as fit as a fiddle.

The pain subsides slightly when he lies down in his nest but it doesn’t go away. Around noon, still not able to leave bed, he starts to panic. He can’t let go of that date. He can’t. Rationally, he knows Jeongguk is only going to be concerned and reschedule for when the omega feels better but some part of his brain whispers that this is his only chance and if he lets it go, he’s going to lose him.

As if having some sixth sense, his phone rings with an incoming call from Yoongi.

“Hi Taehyung-ah, how are you?”

“Hyung,” he whines and that seems to alarm his friend.

“What’s going on? Are you in pain?” The alpha listens while Taehyung describes to him what is happening. “Okay, Taehyungie, hyungs on his way.”

He arrives at the apartment almost an hour later and helps Taehyung out of his nest, to scent him. That simple gesture has an immediate effect and the omega sighs in relief. The pain is still there but it’s much more bearable.

“You need to be scented, Taehyung-ah,” the alpha explains, caressing his back and leading him to the kitchen. “It’s gonna help with your pains.”

Yoongi prepares lunch for the two of them and the presence of the head alpha calms Taehyung down a bit. He feels much better but he’s still unsure if he’ll be able to go on a date. His friend can feel his distress for sure but he doesn’t go back to the topic until they finish eating.

“You’re a male omega so it was going to be hard anyway but you are unmated too. It’s all gonna get all worse for you, pup. Maybe I should drop by more often to scent you, you’re gonna need an alpha scent more and more.”

“Thank you, hyung,” Taehyung murmurs. He hesitates if it’s a good idea to talk with Yoongi about it but he’s still his best friend, his head alpha and Taehyung really needs someone level headed now. So he confesses quietly, “I was supposed to go on a date with Jeongguk today.”

There is a short moment of silence and Yoongi hums, “What were your plans?”

“Just dinner, nothing extravagant.” Taehyung shrugs.

Another minute passes and finally Yoongi sighs and takes Taehyung’s hand in his. “Pup, you don’t have to be afraid to talk with me about him. I’m worried but I’ll always support you. So why are you not going on that date anymore?”

“Hyung, look at me, I barely walk today, I can’t go like this,” the omega sniffs. “I’m already getting sore from sitting here.”

“I got you a pregnancy belt, maybe that will help.”

“Huh?”

Yoongi brings the shopping bag from the entrance hall and hands it to the omega. “That’s why it took me a bit longer to get here. I needed to stop at the shop.”

The two of them put the belt on Taehyung and it actually helps. The pain doesn’t disappear completely but it just stays as a pulsating feeling. He’s still not sure if going to the restaurant is a good idea though. He has no idea what is gonna happen when Yoongi leaves and after a couple of hours his scent subsides.

“What about a stay at home date?” Yoongi suggests while loading the dishwasher. “Tell him truthfully how you’re feeling and propose a take-away instead of going out.”

Taehyung thinks for a second, caressing his baby bump. It might work. He can lie down anytime and he’s already at the location. But he’s still unsure how the alpha is going to react to the change of plans. He made a reservation and Taehyung doesn’t know where they were supposed to go, but what if it’s a trendy place and it’s not so easy to get the table. What if he decides to take another omega when Taehyung cancels?

“I can practically hear you thinking, Tae,” Yoongi laughs. “I’m sure Jeongguk won’t mind staying at home. He wants to go on a date with you, it’s probably whatever for him where you go and what you do. Tell him, trust hyung.” He dries his hands on a cloth and comes to plant a kiss on top of Taehyung’s head. “I need to go back to work now. Deadlines are calling.”

For another hour Taehyung ponders what to do. The pain stays on a bearable level and the belt helps too but he can already feel a growing discomfort after the alpha left.

So he gathers courage and grabs the phone. He’s about to type a message but decides against it. He dials the number before the anxiety creeps on him.

“Tae? Is everything okay?”

Funnily, the worry in Jeongguk’s voice calms Taehyung’s nerves.

“Jeongguk-ah, I’m sorry for disturbing your work. Do you have a minute?”

“Of course. What’s wrong? Is bunny okay?”

“She’s perfectly fine, don’t worry,” Taehyung assures him and he can hear how the alpha releases a shaky breath. “I’m calling about our date.”

“Oh,” Jeongguk’s voice cheers up immediately. “That’s a relief. The date is definitely a good topic.”

The omega would laugh if he didn’t know he’s not having good news. “Actually, I’m afraid we need to change plans.”

He explains everything and when he finishes he’s over the moon hearing that Jeongguk’s voice didn’t lose its excitement. “Oh, Tae, I’m so sorry. Of course, we can have a stay at home date instead, I don’t care what we do as long as you’re there. But in that case we need to postpone it for a bit later. Maybe 7:30? I’ll try to leave work earlier but I might not be ready at 6.”

“It’s okay, whatever is good for you. I can order so it’s ready when you-”

“Nonsense. You’re not ordering anything. I’m going to take care of everything, you just need to show up. Will you be able to come to my apartment? Or you prefer to stay at yours?”

Taehyung has no idea how many times his heart skipped a beat during their short conversation but even bunny seems to realise something’s happening because she’s activated.

“I can come to yours,” he assures. “It’s just an elevator ride upstairs.”

“Perfect. Then it’s a date!”

Taehyung can almost see that bunny smile in front of his eyes.

He knocks at Jeongguk’s door exactly at 7:30 and he can immediately hear Bam’s barks. He decided to keep the outfit he decided on when they were supposed to go to the restaurant and he just hopes he hasn’t overdressed. What if Jeongguk decided he’s just going to wear his sweats as they’re staying home anyway? He pouts at the thought. It’s still important for Taehyung, that’s why he made an effort.

His negative thoughts leave his mind right away when he sees the smiling alpha in the doorway. He looks exceptionally handsome, in his dark navy shirt, black slacks and hair nicely styled out of his forehead, leaving his pierced, strong brows out in sight.

“Hi Tae,” he greets happily and lets the omega in. When Taehyung takes off his shoes, before he has a chance to pet Bam, Jeongguk leans in and kisses his cheek. “You look beautiful. How are you feeling?”

“I’m better, hyung bought a pregnancy belt for me and it really helps,” he assures, wiggling his fingers that are currently being licked by the excited doberman.

“That’s great, Tae. I need to finish one thing in the kitchen, so please come to the table when you are done with saying hi to this puppy.” The alpha energetically pets Bam, making his ears flop around.

After their fair share of cuddles, the man-dog duo get to the dining area right when Jeongguk lights up the candle. Taehyung looks around the table and it’s like he’s experiencing deja vu, seeing the amount of food.

“Have you invited more people?”

“What?” The alpha tilts his head surprised. And pouts. “Why would I do that? It’s our date.”

“There’s enough food to feed at least the entire floor. Again.”

Jeongguk laughs and pushes back the chair for Taehyung to sit and then pours wine into their glasses. “I may have some evil plans for tomorrow.”

“Evil you’re saying? Interesting.” The omega winks at him. “I like bad boys.”

“Do you, now?” Jeongguk sits down across the table with a quirk of a brow. “Good to know. Should I embrace my inner rebel then?”

“I refuse to believe you could be a bad boy. Not with those bunny teeth of yours.”

Taehyung sniffs the drink in his glass and furrows his brows. It smells like wine but something is off. Plus, he doesn’t believe Jeongguk would let him drink alcohol. There’s no way.

“It’s non-alcoholic wine, Tae. Don’t be so suspicious. You know I’d never do anything to harm any of you two.”

“That I know,” he hums and takes a sip. It’s sweet and slightly bubbly. “What I did not know is that there is non-alcoholic wine.”

“Well, if you were a bigger fan of alcohol you’d probably look for substitutes now but as you don’t need it...” Jeongguk shrugs, taking a sip himself and making an appreciative face. Which in his case means angry brows, as if the drink offended him, and a couple lip smacks. Oh, how Taehyung is enamoured with him.

And he’s even more infatuated by the fact that Jeongguk seems to remember everything he’s ever told him. How he doesn’t drink alcohol, that he likes fresh kimchi the most, how he can’t eat spicy food and his love for tteokbokki, judging by the amount of rice cakes that are being served on his plate throughout the dinner.

They’ve been talking a lot these past couple of weeks so they are comfortable with each other and they even had a meal together once already but it’s so much different this time.

Jeongguk keeps caressing Taehyung’s hand, or even sometimes takes it in his. He keeps feeding him, whenever he notices a finer piece of meat or tries a new side dish that turns out to be ‘amazing’ (and they all really are). He makes sure Taehyung’s glass is full at all times and that the blush on his cheeks doesn’t fade away. He keeps joking if the food is for bunny’s liking or if he should bring some lettuce and carrots for her. And he asks multiple times if he’s in pain and if he prefers to move to the couch to sit or even lie down.

Only after they finish eating and Taehyung is not sure if his big belly is caused by pregnancy or food, he admits he’d like to go sit in the living room.

“And believe it or not, it’s only because I’m so full. The food was delicious, Jeonggukie, thank you. But so much is left.”

“Don’t worry about it.” The alpha waves his hand dismissively. He pours wine into Taehyung’s glass and helps the whining omega to the couch. “Get comfy now and rest, pretty. I’ll be back in a second.”

He kisses Taehyung’s forehead and leaves, not before placing the glass of wine on the coaster on the coffee table. It’s been a long time since Taehyung’s been on a date but even he can recognise that it’s going well. Very well.

It’s safe to assume this is not the last date and the thought makes him excited. That’s all he’s been hoping for since he got to know the alpha a bit more and it’s finally happening.

The cluttering in the kitchen lasts for a few minutes but soon enough Jeongguk appears in his line of vision with two plates and his own glass of wine.

“More food, are you insane?” Taehyung groans but peeks at the goodies nonetheless.

“It’s just a dessert. Fake cheesecake.”

“Fake?”

“It means it doesn’t have any cheese.”

“I know what fake cheesecake means,” he whines and hits the alpha lightly. To his heart’s contentment, after lighting up multiple candles in the room, the man decides to sit close to him. “I was asking what you used instead.”

“Try to guess.”

Taehyung takes a tentative bite and frowns. It’s tasty but for sure it’s not cheese. The texture is peculiar and he has a feeling that it shouldn’t taste this good. It’s filled with strawberries but even when he tries the filling without the fruit it’s delicious. “I have no idea.”

“I’ll give you a hint - it’s connected to bunny.”

He thinks for a moment, trying to remember which week is now and when it occurs to him, he’s shocked. “It’s a cauliflower?”

“Bingo,” the alpha laughs. “I was surprised how tasty it is, too, if I’m being honest. I put a lot of strawberries just in case it was a flop. I knew you’d at least enjoy that.”

“Wait, you made it yourself?”

“Yeah,” Jeongguk suddenly looks a bit shy. “I wanted to cook, too, but I promised you the restaurant food so I restricted myself to the dessert.”

“You are amazing.”

Taehyung shakes his head and for a second they are just eating in a comfortable silence. He’s not sure how he stuffed himself with the cake as he’d swear there’s absolutely no space left after the dinner but the dessert is so good, he can’t control himself. Besides, it was prepared by the alpha. For him.

When they’re both done, Jeongguk takes the plates to the kitchen and comes back with something in his hands. Taehyung looks at him curiously, as he suddenly seems nervous.

“Okay, so I’d like to think that this date is going well,” the alpha starts and Taehyung can’t stop the fond smile blooming on his face.

“I think so, too, Jeonggukie.”

“Good. Good. It’s not finished of course but I think I will pass out from stress if I won’t do it now, so,” he clears his throat and places a box in Taehyung’s lap. “Would you allow me to court you?”

“Court me?” Taehyung feels breathless. He’s always dreamed about being courted but it’s not common practice these days, not in the developed countries at least, and especially in big cities.

He and his friends were joking about it a lot but he never expected Jeongguk to actually court him.

“Yes. I know it’s a bit traditional but my appa told me once, that one day I’m going to meet an omega that me and my wolf will know we need to court. He felt this way with my dad and I honestly thought it’s not gonna happen to me. I made my peace with it, not everyone finds what my parents have after all.” Jeongguk smiles and carefully takes one of Taehyung’s hands in his. “And then I met you.”

The omega starts to feel dizzy with all the emotions he feels right now.

“It didn’t happen right away. I found you charming, of course, who wouldn’t, but we said goodbye at the mall and I thought that was it. But then we kept running into each other and I had a chance to get to know you better and goddess, Taehyung, you are the most incredible person I’ve ever met. You are smart, funny, so cute I could die and on top of that absolutely gorgeous. So,” he pauses for a deep breath and Taehyung’s heart is on the verge of jumping out of his chest. “This courtship might not be perfect, I don’t know how it should look like and what you expect from it but I promise I’ll do my best. If you’d allow me, I’ll work everyday to be a good alpha for you and I promise I’ll always take care of you and bunny. Will you accept me?”

“Yes,” Taehyung blurts out, breathless and Jeongguk laughs, scooting closer to him.

“You didn’t even see the gift.”

“I don’t care about the gifts. You could give me a rock and I’d still accept.”

“You’re too precious.” The alpha smiles and leans in to kiss him softly.

The shiver that runs through Taehyung’s entire body makes him tremble and when Jeongguk wraps his arms around him, he loses the entire control. He claims the alpha’s lips with his, with his tongue, his teeth and the approving sounds that leave Jeongguk’s throat only fuel him more. He clings to him tightly, trying to get closer and closer. The arms circling his middle are too loose, too careful and he barely stops himself from climbing onto the alpha’s lap.

When he feels like his lungs are about to collapse, Jeongguk pulls away, panting as hard as he does. “Hello there.”

“Hi.” Taehyung smiles and leans back in, already missing those lips on his. He shuffles even closer and hums happily, when Jeongguk finally tightens his embrace on him.

“Does my omega like to be held like this?” Jeongguk teases, his lips brushing Taehyung’s while he speaks and Taehyung’s wolf goes crazy at the endearment.

“The closer, the better,” he murmurs. “I like my alpha’s firm claim on me.”

The growl he gets in response is delightful, exhilarating. He can sense a slightly possessive note in it and it’s confirmed when Jeongguk speaks again, “That’s right. And just to be clear, I’d like us to be exclusive. I know it was normal back in the days to have multiple courtships ongoing, but I don’t share.”

“There’s no one else. And I also want you just for myself.”

“Good.”

Jeongguk leans back so he can look Taehyung in the eyes. He lifts his hand to caress the soft cheek and the omega nuzzles into the touch with a contented hum. 

Taehyung’s in bliss. Surrounded by a patchouli scent, strong arms and faced with a starry gaze, he thinks there’s nothing that could make this night better. So when the hand moves from his cheek to his nape, he closes his eyes and simply surrenders to his alpha’s lips again.

When they finally manage to stop kissing, Taehyung snuggles into Jeongguk’s side and sighs with content.

“I’m happy.”

 “Me too.”

Taehyung can feel the alpha’s smile against  his hair and it makes his heart grow. If they continue like this, his chest will run out of space. It turns out two bunnies evoke a great deal of love.

“You still haven’t checked the gift,” Jeongguk whispers.

Taehyung gasps. He doesn’t want his alpha to think he doesn’t appreciate his efforts. He does and he’s really curious what Jeongguk decided to give him though he didn’t lie when he said he’d still love it even if it turned out to be a rock. Taehyung would declare it the prettiest rock in the world and display it proudly in his living room for everyone to see. “I’m sorry. I’m looking at it right now.”

He finds the box amidst the cushions, somehow pushed there during Taehyung’s aggressive wiggling to get closer to Jeongguk. It makes his cheek blush but he settles back comfortably at the alpha’s side and opens the lid.

An unintended coo leaves his lips as he touches the single charm placed on the bracelet. It’s one big bunny with a smaller one trying to climb on it. “Jeonggukie, it’s adorable.”

“Now that you accepted me, you have two bunnies of yours,” the man nuzzles into Taehyung’s hair and tentatively places a hand on his baby bump. It’s just a fleeting touch but Taehyung’s stomach drops in excitement. “And this way you will always have us close.”

“Thank you, I love it.”

He turns a bit so he can kiss the alpha but restrains himself just to a slightly prolonged peck, as he wants to put his gift on his wrist. His courting gift. “Help me?”

Jeongguk happily obliges, putting on the bracelet on Taehyung with a soft smile and then peppering his wrist and all of his knuckles with kisses.

They shuffle a bit, so Taehyung can sit more comfortably, still pressed tightly to Jeongguk’s side and Jeongguk’s hand stays close to the baby bump.

“Is this okay?” he asks, caressing it with his knuckles delicately.

“Of course.” Taehyung sticks his nose to Jeongguk’s scent gland. He takes the alpha’s hand and places it properly on his belly. “You can touch whenever you want.”

The spike of happiness hits Taehyung right in the face as he’s practically stuffing his face in Jeongguk’s neck. The alpha roams his hand all over the belly, the happy pheromones filling the air more and more and when he seems content and Taehyung feels high on patchouli, he goes back to delicate strokes with his knuckles. “Thank you.”

Before Taehyung can answer, as if on cue, there’s a tiny kick targeted somewhere in the direction of the light caresses. He freezes, waiting for a moment and then- there’s another one. Jeongguk is stiff too, so Taehyung straightens up. “Did you feel it?” he whispers.

“I did,” Jeongguk chokes out and plants a spread out palm in the kicked spot, as if he wanted to cover as much surface as possible to ensure he’ll feel it when the next hit comes.

“It’s the first time someone other than me can feel her,” Taehyung continues whispering and his eyes fill with tears when he sees how the alpha’s eyes glisten.

“Hello there, bunny,” Jeongguk laughs quietly and draws tiny circles with his thumb. “It’s good to feel you.”

The answer comes immediately, with the most powerful kick out of three. It’s like she knew it’s an important night and she wanted to be a part of it. She always is but now she's even more tangible.

They wait for another hit, try to coax her by speaking to her but it seems that she deems her part done for today and doesn’t listen to any pleas. So they just go back to their previous cuddly position.

“Wow, that was…” Jeongguk trails off. “And you’ve been feeling those all this time?”

“It started as a fluttering,” Taehyung murmurs, suddenly feeling his energy leaving him after all of the excitement. “It felt like she used my body as her personal swimming pool. She started to kick some time ago but it was the first time it was so powerful. Jimin and Yoongi keep whining that she doesn’t want to greet them. Oh, they’re gonna be so jealous when I tell them,” he giggles and snuggles closer into Jeongguk’s side.

“Tae, I think you’re falling asleep.”

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

Jeongguk laughs and nudges him to get up. “Come on, I’ll walk you home. As much as I don’t want to end this date either, you need to rest.”

Taehyung keeps grunting and complaining that he is not sleepy and he can walk downstairs on his own. Jeongguk quietly ignores him and just helps him put on his shoes and then lets him basically hang off of him while they slowly move towards Taehyung’s apartment.

“How are your pains?” Jeongguk asks when they leave the elevator. “I hope you didn’t feel like you have to hide anything from me.”

“No, no, don’t worry. My head alpha scented me, so it was okay but it was hours ago and I just wasn’t sure if it’ll be still enough to go out,” he laughs quietly. After a second of hesitation he adds, “It didn’t occur to me that your scent is going to be an equally good painkiller.” A better one.

But this he doesn’t say out loud.

Jeongguk smiles sweetly and when they arrive at the door, the omega starts to fiddle with his fingers. They may have had a stay at home date but it didn’t feel any less real. Actually, Taehyung thinks it was much better this way because he’s pretty sure they would not engage in long make out sessions if they went out.

“So, this is me,” he says shyly and Jeongguk chuckles.

The alpha takes a step closer and with a finger under Taehyung’s chin, he tilts his head up. He kisses him softly and leans back, so he can see his expression. “Do you remember I told you I have some evil plans?”

The excitement rises in Taehyung’s veins and enthralled, he nods quickly.

“There’s so much food left after today, how about I prepare lunch for us tomorrow, hm?” He tries, really tries, to not show his disappointment but judging by Jeongguk’s happy laughter, he doesn't succeed. “Hold your horses, you naughty omega. It’s only our first date, we have plenty of time to bring your dirty thoughts to life.” He comes closer, pressing Taehyung to the wall and leans in to whisper in his ear, “Be patient and I’ll knot you nicely soon.”

After those sinful words he just pecks Taehyung quickly and walks away with a happy wave.

Taehyung stands there, leaning against the wall long after the alpha disappears on the stairs. He finally shakes off his stupor when Yeontan starts barking in the entrance hall, smelling his owner and probably wondering why he doesn’t get inside.

His mind is wandering around, just like his hands while he’s taking a shower, imagining the strong arms surrounding him all the while. When he lies down in his nest, there’s already a message waiting for him.

JJG-130709: drop by for lunch tomorrow around 1 ;) sweet decent (or not) dreams, my precious omega <3

The lunch day the next day turns out to be just as sweet, if not sweeter, as their first date.

Jeongguk keeps dotting on Taehyung throughout the whole meal and then eagerly takes the omega to the living room where they engage in cuddles, kisses and caresses for the better part of the day.

Taehyung feels a bit like a teenager, when he was excited for all his firsts with the first alpha he dated. Because it kinda feels like a first time with Jeongguk. First right time. However cheesy and stretched that sounds, Taehyung finally feels like everything in his life falls into the right place.

His greatest joy is growing in the safety of his belly, only one trimester away from his longing arms. 

He’s found a perfect alpha, who cherishes him greatly since the very beginning of their relationship and it’s natural for them as wolves to grow affection with time, so he can only imagine how devoted Jeongguk’s gonna become once he falls in love. 

His pack is going to be full again in a matter of a couple weeks, when Hoseok comes back from America and stays in Korea for good.

Even meeting Seokjin and Namjoon feels like a fate and he’ll be forever grateful for befriending the feisty omega during his first yoga class. Even if said omega arranges a marriage for their pups long before they are born.

It’s even perfect when Bam interrupts their kissing session that lasted so long that Taehyung barely feels his lips anymore and Jeongguk, groaning, needs to run for a quick potty break with the impatient doberman. Of course he doesn’t forget about Yeontan and grabs him from Taehyung’s apartment to take him with the two of them. Waiting for the trio, Taehyung cleans the mess left after their lunch. He bites his lip, thinking how eager they both were for a quality couch time that they just abandoned all the dirty dishes on the table for hours.

A couple of minutes later there are four sets of paws running around the apartment; one pair of tattooed arms wrapped around Taehyung; one pair of doe, starry eyes observing how the omega cuts the fake cheesecake and puts it on two plates. One set of tiny feet kicking around happily and making the two of them coo even if the alpha can feel only every other hit. One pair of lips kissing Taehyung’s cheek, the line of his jaw, his ear, temple, hair and everything in between.

And later, laughing at Jeongguk wrestling on the floor with Bam and Yeontan, Taehyung thinks that he could get used to life like this.

Chapter Text

Jimin and Yoongi were visiting hyung’s parents in Daegu for a weekend, so they drop by first thing on Monday afternoon. Yoongi of course bearing the tray with baked vegetable of the week - kabocha squash.

“I can’t believe we were not the first ones to feel bunny kicking!” Jimin whines, keeping both of his small hands on Taehyung’s belly, waiting like this for a good twenty minutes. He even blocks impatient Yoongi, who only huffs next to him. “Come on sweet girl, uncle Yoongi is going to spoil you rotten if you kick now.”

“Uncle Yoongi is going to spoil her anyway,” the alpha snorts. “I think you’ll lose your status as my beloved baby after this gatekeeping happening here.”

“I was there when she was being conceived and at every single obgyn visit later. You were trying to stop Taehyungie from going through all of this. So you and that rabbit alpha are way below me in the hierarchy of people deserving to feel her kicking.”

As the two mates keep arguing, Taehyung just keeps looking at them with a smile. He’s still to tell them about the courtship as he didn’t want to share such news over the phone but he’s pretty much convinced what their reactions will be. Jimin’s gonna be over the moon, gushing over the courting gift and flowers on the coffee table that were delivered to Taehyung’s door this morning, while Yoongi’s going to give him the whole lecture on how he should be careful and not let the mean alpha steal his virtue just because Taehyung has hots for him.

“What a cute bracelet, Taehyungie!” Jimin takes Taehyung’s wrist in his hand and examines the jewellery, other hand still securely placed on the bump. “Is this you and Nari? An appa bunny and a baby bunny?”

“Actually,” Taehyung hesitates and throws a quick look at his head alpha, who lifts an eyebrow at him. “It’s Jeongguk and Nari, supposedly symbolising my two bunnies. It’s a courting gift.”

Jimin gasps and takes his second hand to touch the bracelet. “No way! Jeongguk finally grew a pair, who would have thought.”

“Don’t be mean Jiminie, our situation was complicated from the beginning.”

“There was only one real obstacle and it took him way too long to get rid of it.”

“Jimin!” Taehyung laughs but secretly agrees. The ex-girlfriend was really unnecessary in his big love story. “He went at his own pace, it’s good he didn’t throw everything right after meeting me. That would be concerning on so many levels. Besides, he said himself that it was a gradual process.”

“Of course it was, he's such an honourable alpha he probably felt remorseful when he started to develop a crush on you,” Jimin snickers and wiggles his brows. “But if not for she-who-must-not-be-named, ‘m sure it would be love at first sight.”

Taehyung only rolls his eyes and steals a timid glance at his hyung. The alpha hasn’t spoken yet and he has no idea if that’s a good or a bad sign. 

“Hyung?”

“Congratulations, pup. You should bring him for dinner to the pack house sometime.”

Both omegas look at him in shock. Jimin shifts a bit away from the alpha, shielding Taehyung’s belly with his body. “Who are you and what did you do with my mate?”

Yoongi snorts and brings Jimin closer to himself. “Can’t I change my mind? Well, not exactly change, I’ve never been against Guk, just a little distrustful.”

“‘Guk’?” Jimin tries to pull away again but the iron grip around his waist doesn’t let him. “Who the hell are you?”

“I second that. ‘Guk’?” Taehyung is so shocked with the turn of events. “Are you trying to be cool or something? Did P1Harmony boys tease you again that you’re a grandpa?”

“Oh for fuck’s sake,” the alpha grumbles and switches spots with his mate, so now he is sitting next to Taehyung and he immediately puts his hand on the baby bump. Jimin gasps, realising he’s been tricked but before he can protest, Yoongi continues, “He reached out to me some time ago, around the time you had your glucose screening.”

Taehyung and Jimin exchange astonished looks.

“We still have each other's numbers from the time you went MIA and he texted that he would like to meet. So we went out one Saturday for some drinks and to talk.”

“What were you talking about?”

“He wanted to convince me that his intentions are pure.” The alpha rolls his eyes and starts caressing Taehyung’s belly. “I honestly couldn’t find anything on the kid. He just looked absolutely whipped for you and kept assuring me he’s going to take good care of the two of you.”

Yoongi pauses for a second and Taehyung can’t believe what he’s hearing. Did Jeongguk really feel the need to talk with his head alpha just to ensure Yoongi’s peace of mind? To declare his commitment to Taehyung? It all sounds so surreal, he’s not sure if his hyung is not on crack.

“At some point he told me he’d like to court you. He didn’t ask for permission, he said he just wanted to inform me, because it’s your decision if you want to be courted but he understands we have a special bond, both because of our friendship and a pack bond, and he’d be really happy and much calmer if he had my approval.” The alpha smiles a bit crookedly and that’s when Jimin finally breaks from his stupor and punches his shoulder.

“And you didn’t tell me anything! The glucose screening was like… like… ages ago! You should’ve told me right away!”

“Jeongguk didn’t want me to tell anyone, to minimise the chance of someone spoiling the surprise for Taehyung.”

“But I’m your mate! If you promise not to tell anyone, that does not apply to me.” The omega pouts and Yoongi chuckles at his love’s antics and then drops another bomb.

“Anyway, he also said that he’s not planning to challenge me and if you accept and you two eventually mate, he will accept me as his head alpha.”

Taehyung puts a hand around his mouth in a bewilderment. It’s a big declaration, especially considering the fact Jeongguk doesn’t really know Yoongi. They’ve met briefly a few times before their little night out and that’s it. As if his hyung read his mind, Yoongi speaks again.

“Taehyung-ah. Jeongguk might not know me but he trusts your judgement.” The omega blushes slightly. “He said that if you have me in such high regards I must’ve deserved it.”

“I told him how we formed our pack and in general I talk a lot about the three of you, so I guess he must have a nice picture of you painted in his head…”

“Honestly, pup, he seems like a decent guy and I believe he genuinely cares about you. Hell, he’s a goner and at some point I thought I’m gonna punch him for those puppy eyes he looked at me with. And on a different note, damn can he hold his liquor. We drank a massive amount of irish bombs, I was throwing up the whole night. I don’t know how he actually felt back then or later when we separated, but in the bar he seemed just a bit tipsy.”

“My own mate,” Jimin murmurs and crosses his arms on his chest. “This is unacceptable.”

“You would tell Taehyungie and he deserved to be surprised.” Yoongi smiles at Taehyung and delicately touches the bunny charm. “It’s a beautiful gift.”

“Yes, it is.”

Taehyung’s still in shock long after his pack leaves. He knew the courtship is a big deal in general and even Jeongguk basically compared his feelings to what his appa felt for his dad in the early stages of their relationship, so he was aware that the alpha is serious about it but it hit him properly just now.

Jeongguk paid respect to his head alpha, declared readiness to join their pack under Yoongi’s leadership, confessed the desire to be with Taehyung in front of his best friend, brother, guardian. Those feel like huge gestures.

He went back to traditions, to the roots of their culture and wolf identity. He doesn’t have a pack, doesn’t actually know how they function and he still went the extra mile to gain the approval of the head of Taehyung’s family. He’s sure the alpha would also ask his father if he didn’t know Taehyung doesn’t have contact with his parents anymore.

It’s both thrilling and kinda terrifying. Knowing someone is so committed to you. What if Taehyung won’t be good enough for Jeongguk? What if they get to know each other better and Jeongguk decides the omega doesn’t match his expectations, this image of him he created in his mind. What do they say? Familiarity breeds contempt. What if that’s the case here? What if it’s gonna happen to them?

He decides to confront Jeongguk during their evening walk. Maybe not exactly confront but he wants to hear the story from him.

“So, I told my pack about our courtship,” he starts shyly, earning himself a kiss for “being cute”.

“Yeah? How did they react?”

“Well, Jimin was over the moon, Hoseok hyung congratulated me on a good taste,” he scoffs. “He kept pestering me about you ever since he saw you at that pool. He repeatedly threatened me that if you're still single by the time he’s back in Korea, he’s going to pursue you.” He tightens his hold on Jeongguk’s hand in a possessive manner. As if.

“I have my eyes only on two cuties, don’t worry.” Jeongguk smiles at him, brushing knuckles against his baby bump briefly. “He could try though, if we’d not be together by then maybe it would make you jealous and you’d claim me yourself.”

“Guess we’ll never know. Anyway, their reaction was predictable. Yoongi hyung on the other hand wasn’t surprised at all.”

“Ahh, right. He told you?”

“He told me.”

“Are you mad?”

“Why would I be mad?” The question genuinely surprised Taehyung. He was shocked, yes, but mad? Never.

“I went behind your back after all. It was in good faith but still, I am not sure what the rules are for a potential suitor contacting the pack of their chosen one.” The alpha grins and Taehyung only rolls his eyes. “I just wanted to be sure he knows I’m serious about you. Well, you and bunny. That I’m here for a long run and do not plan to let go. And by the way ensure you won’t be in trouble with him. Maybe not trouble trouble but at least I was hoping you’ll avoid a lecture.”

“I did, thank you.” His alpha is so sweet. Considerate and foresighted. The courting proposal was not an on-a-whim decision, it’s clear he thought it through and that’s what touches Taehyung’s heart the most.

“I understand why he is so protective over you. We’ve never actually talked about our relationship experience but the fact that you decided to have a pup on your own told me there was no worthy partner in the picture. I don’t know for what reason but that’s what I concluded. And I also understand it was going to be a big decision for you. Because you’re expecting your longed for baby and you can’t afford a meaningless relationship. Have bunny attached to someone who might disappear the next day. The two of you need stability and someone who’s in for one hundred percent. So when I knew I was, I started to plan this courtship and one of the steps was approval from the most important alpha in your life at that time.” The confession makes Taehyung’s heart skip a bit. At that time. Because there might be a shift in this hierarchy any moment now. 

“Don’t think I have everything figured out, I will try to go with the flow most of the time,” Jeongguk laughs. “But my appa told me it’s okay to not plan every step, to adjust and see how our relationship evolves. They want to meet you, by the way. My dads.”

“You told your parents about me?” Taehyung looks at his alpha with big, owlish eyes.

“Of course I did.” he smiles gently. “You’re the most important people to me now, how could I not tell them about you? They know about you since the day we met, my dad is very invested in our story,” he laughs loudly and Taehyung bites his lip to stop a big grin creeping on his face. “Last weekend, when I told them I decided to finally ask to court you, he told me that he had a ‘feeling’ since the beginning.”

“I didn’t know,” Taehyung whispers and snuggles closer to Jeongguk on the bench. “You are precious.”

“Hm, is that so?” The alpha puts his arm around Taehyung’s shoulders. “Glad you noticed. So smart, no wonder you’re a Ravenclaw.”

“Geez, you’re such a dork,” Taehyung laughs, sated after the conversation and Jeongguk’s declarations of commitment. He, bunny and their hearts are safe next to him.

“And you're my favourite Ravenclaw.”

“You know,” Taehyung teases, sitting on a couch in the alpha’s apartment and watching him pack. It’s Wednesday evening and Jeongguk is getting ready for his weekend trip. “Seokjin keeps gloating that he predicted you’ll start courting me before the third trimester starts.”

“Bunny’s future father in law?”

Taehyung throws a pillow at him which the alpha doesn’t even attempt to avoid. Which is quite insulting especially because the pillow misses him. As if he knew this is exactly what’s gonna happen. He huffs and gets up to bring them water from the fridge. Bam immediately gets up and escorts him to the kitchen. The dog has got very protective over him, very often takes a seat at his feet, follows him around and lately started to stuff his snout under the baby bump in a greeting.

“Yes, you know Jinnie-hyung. You met him in the cafe.”

“I know, I’m just messing with you,” Jeongguk chuckles and looks at the bag on the coffee table. “Tae, could you please bring me my helmet on your way back? I think I left it on the countertop.”

It’s lying there indeed. It turns out Jeongguk has an impressive collection of helmets. He seemed very proud of it when he presented all of them to Taehyung earlier in the evening. Considering the alpha is a sport lover, he owns a helmet for almost every sport he indulges himself in. Skiing? Kitesurfing? Motorcycling? Cycling? Another death wish sport? All there. And each one in a different colour. The one for rock climbing is matte light grey.

Taehyung grabs it and walks back to the lounge area with Bam glued to his side. Yeontan raises his head from his spot on the couch as if checking if the doberman took good care of his human and goes back to sleep.

“There you go.”

“Thanks, pup.”

Taehyung freezes in the middle of putting the helmet down next to the bag. His heart’s rate speeds up and the wolf in him promptly rolls on his back. Their alpha called them ‘pup’. It’s like his mind shortcuts and that’s all he can think about. It’s embarrassing how much it both melts and arouses him at the same time.

“Hey, are you-” Jeongguk cuts himself and tentatively sniffs the air. Taehyung can see the exact moment he understands what is happening as the mischievous glint flashes in his eyes. “Oh,” he smirks, turning his whole body to Taehyung. “I see. Does my omega like being called ‘pup’, hm?”

Taehyung gulps and nods shyly, when two hands land on his hips.

“It slipped out, I wasn’t sure if it’s not too early for pet names or if you even like them. I know some people find them cringe, but I’m glad to know it’s not the case here.” He leans in to nose up Taehyung’s neck right to his ear and he whispers. “Because I love pet names, baby.”

The omega whines and to his further embarrassment, he can feel the first drops of slick leaking out of him. It doesn’t stop there - even though he hasn’t had this problem for weeks, for some reason right now his breasts start to leak, too. He’s a bit mortified but it looks like Jeongguk doesn’t mind. He takes a deep breath and growls lowly, before kissing him harshly.

“You smell divine,” the alpha murmurs, when they stop to catch a breath. “I don’t know how the hell I didn’t take you right there and then in the elevator. Do you remember? When I met you downstairs and you were all dripping and moaning in my arms. I swear you were a walking sin, all pouting and smelling so deliciously. Ready to be eaten. A temptation, inciting me to sin, I almost gave in, baby.”

“Alpha,” Taehyung whines and Jeongguk growls, leading them to the couch where he sits and pulls Taehyung down on his lap, immediately latching his lips to the omega’s scent gland. “Shit…”

“I heard you when I came home from my jog with Bam,” Jeongguk continues and Taehyung shivers violently on top of him. Both from his words and his tongue still toying with his neck. “I could even smell you, you left that window open for purpose, didn’t you? I was so relieved I had to go to Busan that weekend because I was afraid I’d break and run to you.”

“Gukkie, shit,” Taehyung moans and starts circling his hips, trying to get some - any - friction.

“You’d like that? If I came that night and took you?”

“Yes, alpha, please…”

“You were moaning my name, naughty omega, tempting me so much, calling for me to knot you,” there’s a wandering hand on Taehyung’s ass and fingers ghosting over the dampness between his cheeks. “Mmm, you’re so wet already. Is that all for me?”

“Yes, only for my alpha.”

A curse and harsh breath against Taehyung’s neck make him tremble but those fingers finally pressing against his entrance nearly bring him to a release. He hasn’t been touched by anyone in so long that a mere make out and touching through clothes push him embarrassingly close to an edge. But it feels good. Jeongguk smells good and Taehyung doesn’t want to stop.

So he doesn’t. He starts to rock on Jeongguk’s lap, trying to get those fingers inside him even if there’re still his shorts in a way.

“Fuck, pup, you are-” Jeongguk’s words are interrupted by loud vibrations on the coffee table. Taehyung stops his movements and the alpha looks at the phone, offended. “Just ignore it.”

But Taehyung can’t. It’s like the bubble was burst and reality dawns on him. He looks at Jeongguk with wide eyes and Taehyung knows he understands. He’s scared for a second that he’s disappointed but the alpha just smiles up at him and caresses his cheeks. The gesture is so tender as if he was careful not to scare the omega away.

“Hi, baby,” Jeongguk whispers.

“I’m sorry,” Taehyung mumbles and he can feel the tears threatening to fill his eyes and with all his might he tries to stop them.

“Don’t be. We have all the time in the world.”

The alpha gently brings their foreheads together and sighs. But it doesn’t sound exasperated. It sounds content.

And maybe he is. Maybe just having Taehyung close is enough for the alpha. Maybe he doesn’t care about their erections still constrained in their pants as long as his omega is safe in his arms.

They will take care of the other things another time.

Taehyung calls Jimin back after he returns to his apartment. He must sound upset because his packmate immediately interrogates him and when he hears about a situation he interrupted, he apologises profusely, the guilt probably eating him alive and it takes fifteen minutes of Taehyung’s calming him down and Yoongi scenting him to finally soothe him.

It turns out Jimin only called to confirm the time he should pick Taehyung up tomorrow so they get on time to the clinic. Taehyung’s tries to think it was important enough to disrupt his first occasion to have sex in months but there’s still the pang of disappointment.

The visit is quick and efficient. Everything is fine with bunny and she grows healthily, exactly as she should. A strong pup, the doctor says when she kicks at the transducer. He prints out three ultrasound pictures as usual and when Jimin gets up to leave, Taehyung hesitates. He bites his lip, deep in thought.

“Are you okay, Taehyungie?” His packmate touches his shoulder concerned. “Are you dizzy?”

“I’m fine,” he assures him and looks at doctor Song. “Could you please print me another one?”

Taehyung gets nervous when they get back to their building after their walk. He has the sonogram photo with him but he couldn’t gather courage to give it to the alpha. It seemed like a good idea at the time, Jimin gave his eager approval in a high pitched squeal, but right now he’s not so sure. 

Of course, Jeongguk mentioned many times that he’s in it both for him and bunny but it feels like a huge step to start sharing this experience with him on a more intimate level. Till now only his pack and him got the sonogram pictures. He showed them to Seokjin and Namjoon of course, same with Vicky, Jackson and the rest of his birth class group, hell, even Jeongguk once saw one in the cafe - but that’s it, just saw it for a second, cooed over a greyish blob and gave the photo back.

His photos are safe in his wallet, the ones Jimin and Yoongi receive are all hung on the fridge in the pack house and the ones sent to Hobi are all displayed in photo frames in his living room in Los Angeles. 

So yeah, it is a big step for him. But lately it looks like they only take big steps. First date, first kiss, courting, they even almost had sex last night. What is one sonogram photo shared with the alpha father of his pup…

“Do you have plans for tonight?” Jeongguk asks while they’re waiting for the elevator. “Would you like to come over with Tannie and have a movie date? We could order pizza and watch something.”

“Sure, I don’t like it that you’re leaving tomorrow.” he pouts and snuggles to his alpha’s side.

“I know, pup. I was excited about the trip but now I just want to be with you and bunny.”

The confession makes Taehyung’s heart grow. It’s like the last confirmation he needed to be one hundred percent sure he should give Jeongguk the photo.

They don’t stop at Taehyung’s floor and go straight to Jeongguk’s apartment. Yeontan already behaves like he owns the place, going to drink water from Bam’s bowl and then curling in a fluffy ball on “his” spot on a couch. It’s so domestic, they just started their courtship and the four of them already work around each other in such a tandem, as if they’ve been doing that for years.

Jeongguk orders pizza, Taehyung prepares drinks with Bam as always glued to his side. They slowly become a family and soon that family will grow from four to five.

When Taehyung and Bam enter the living room, there are already dozens of candles lit up. Jeongguk’s obsession with candles is endearing, apparently he has the whole huge drawer under the TV full of candles of different scents. Right now the ones he chose don't have a strong smell. Taehyung knows they are called “sea breeze” and “fresh laundry” because he checked the other day. He assumes it’s because the alpha doesn’t want to irritate Taehyung’s sensitive sense of smell and he really appreciates it. He would tell him he doesn’t mind, he himself usually lights vanilla or spice ones, but that would also mean he probably needs to confess he can’t stand the lavender scent and he’s not sure if he’s ready for that.

One step at the time.

When the movie and pizza are finished, Taehyung realises he can’t stall anymore. He fidgets in his place for a second but finally gets up to bring the photo from his jacket. Bam follows him and when they come back, Jeongguk is looking at him with curiosity.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes, yes,” he assures the alpha and sits down next to him. Jeongguk, seeing as he’s facing him, straightens up and turns to him as well. “I  wanted to give you something.”

“Oh?” That seems to pique his interest and Taehyung imagines that if he were a wolf (or a bunny), his ears would perk up and the image makes him smile. Cute.

Taehyung hands him an envelope with slightly trembling hands. “For you.”

Jeongguk opens it quickly, side eyeing Taehyung, intrigued. The omega bites his lip and waits impatiently. Jeongguk takes out the photo and turns it around. 

“So, this is Nari,” Taehyung says quietly, waiting for the reaction.

For a few seconds the alpha just looks at it and his face doesn’t show any emotions. He doesn’t even blink and Taehyung starts to worry, that maybe it was a bad idea, maybe it’s too soon or maybe his alpha realises he doesn’t want a pregnant omega, even if he’s pregnant with him. That he doesn’t want a pup and he rushed into it not realising what courting Taehyung really means.

But then Jeongguk hides his face in one hand and the other one visibly shakes. The room gets flooded with strong pheromones, they engulf Taehyung, almost suffocate him, but he can’t exactly read them. He just knows that the alpha is overwhelmed.

He’s about to apologise and assure Jeongguk that it’s all right, that they can slow down if he’s not ready, when the alpha looks up at him with teary eyes.

“Tae…” he starts and he sounds choked up. “Could I please scent you?”

That catches Taehyung off guard. Scent him? He blinks rapidly, trying to contain his excitement. Because Jeongguk sounds desperate, as if the omega didn’t agree, he would lose his mind.

“Yes, of course you can, Jeonggukie.”

Taehyung doesn’t even manage to finish the sentence properly and he has an emotional alpha attached to himself. It’s exhilarating, the way Jeongguk noses around his neck, focusing on his scent glands on both sides. The way he kisses them gently and nuzzles a little bit more. The way he rubs his wrists with a thumb. Only one, because the other hand never lets go of the sonogram picture.

And Taehyung’s muscles relax to the point he goes limp in Jeongguk’s arms and his eyes get heavy. For the first time since he got pregnant he doesn’t feel any pain, any discomfort in his body. It’s like he’s floating and his mind goes into some headspace. It’s similar to the mentality he gets during his heats, when his omega gains more control but right now he’s just as intoxicated as Taehyung. 

Taehyung feels, no, knows he’s in a very vulnerable state right now. But it doesn’t feel this way. He’s never felt more secure. His alpha is strong, it’s clear in his muscular body, flexing with every movement; in his potent scent, taking over the entire apartment, probably seeping out to the corridor, letting everyone know he’s marking his omega right now; in the low timbre of the rumbling coming from depth of his chest, possessive and utterly pleased.

By the time he pulls away, Taehyung is barely coherent and it takes a few minutes of Jeongguk’s soft whispers to bring him back to full consciousness. He blinks owlishly at his alpha, who smiles at him gently.

“Welcome back, pup,” Jeongguk greats and kisses him lightly. “You went away for a moment.”

“‘m sorry,” he mumbles bashfully. He’s not sorry at all, it was a heavenly experience and he’d go back to his little paradise anytime. Even right now.

“Don’t be, sweetheart. It was wonderful for me too.”

They snuggle more comfortably on the couch and Jeongguk puts the sonogram picture against the baby bump. He looks at it with so much affection, Taehyung wonders if this is similar to the look he has on his face while looking at his daughter.

“So this is kabocha squash bunny?”

The question is playful, discharges the tension a bit but doesn’t burst their little patchouli scented bubble.

“In all her glory. She was performing karate during the visit and she attacked the transducer.”

“I’m sure it deserved it. Spreading so much coldness around your home, bad transducer, right honey?” Jeongguk caresses the belly and the answer comes right away as a gentle hit.

Taehyung had a feeling she’s gonna make her appearance any moment now, after all she was affected by the scenting session as well. Jeongguk didn’t scent the bump today but Taehyung’s heart speeds up just at the mere thought that it'll probably come soon.

“You named her Nari?” The next question asked in a barely audible whisper makes the omega tear his eyes from his daughter, to look at his alpha instead.

“Yeah,” he’s a bit hesitant. What if Jeongguk doesn’t like it? Should Taehyung consider changing it? Take his suggestions into account? But she’s his daughter, she’s his before anyone else's. He fought for her and she wouldn’t exist if Taehyung wasn’t so determined and persistent all those months ago. “What do you think?”

“I think it’s perfect. Just like her,” Jeongguk smiles and traces the contour of the little pup in the picture with his finger. “Nari. Any particular reason for the name?”

“It’s one of my favourite flowers. Sunflowers and peonies do not make good names.”

“No, they don’t,” Jeongguk snorts and brings Taehyung closer to himself. “Good, though. Nari sounds like just the right name for that little bunny hiding in there.” He tickles the belly lightly.

It turns out not only Jeongguk is in a playful mood, bunny gets hyperactive and soon Jeongguk has to scent Taehyung again just to calm her down. Unfortunately it also makes Taehyung extremely sleepy and it’s the sign for the two of them it’s time to say goodbye.

Being the perfect alpha and gentleman he is, Jeongguk walks Taehyung home, securing him with a strong arm and carrying Yeontan in the other. Taehyung wishes for them to be already on the level where they do not have to separate for the night but he needs to wait a bit more. Soon.

“What time are you leaving tomorrow?” he asks with a pout.

“I need to go to work for a couple of hours and I take half a day off. The guys are going to pick me up around 2.”

“I’ll come downstairs to say goodbye to you,” he promises and leans in for a kiss. “Okay?”

“I wouldn’t go without a goodbye.”

“Then I changed my mind and won’t come.”

“Cheesy,” the alpha laughs and finally kisses him. “Goodnight, pup.”

“Goodnight, alpha.”

Taehyung has an amazing ability to force almost anything with his pout and big, puppy eyes.

He’s been using this trick on Yoongi hyung for him to cook for him or cuddle and watch a movie the alpha would never watch of his own will.

He’s been using it on Jimin, so the omega lies to his own boyfriend, to cover for Taehyung, so he doesn’t get in trouble for doing irresponsible things in college.

He’s been using it on Hobi hyung to drop everything and go for whatever adventure the omega planned for the two of them.

And right now it turns out he can also use it on Jeongguk because the alpha is seconds away from cancelling his trip and staying in Seoul with a pouty Taehyung standing in front of him.

“I can always go next time…”

And as much as Taehyung would love that, he would never expect the alpha to actually stay. He’s been excited for this trip for weeks and he deserves a weekend outing with his friends. 

Friends, who are currently watching the two of them with teasing smiles, nudging each other and wiggling eyebrows like teenagers.

The alphas never really grow up.

“No, you are going now. It’s only two days. Are you sure you don’t want to leave Bam with me?”

“I’m sure. We’re gonna drop him off at the dog centre. It would be too dangerous for you to walk the two of them. Bam could get excited and pull you and you’d fall. Not a chance.”

Taehyung rolls his eyes but doesn’t argue. It’s Jeongguk’s little vacation, he can’t worry constantly throughout the whole trip. “Fine. But just so you know, we would have a lot of fun, the four of us.”

“I don’t doubt that.” The alpha smiles and caresses the baby bump tenderly. “I’m gonna miss you two.”

“We’re gonna miss you too but now go, because Mingyu looks like he’s about to throw a tantrum.”

“His single ass is just jealous that I have a gorgeous omega waiting for me at home,” he sighs and leans down to scent Taehyung thoroughly. When he deems it satisfying enough, he kisses Taehyung one more time and finally takes a step back. “Okay, I’m going. I’ll call you, yeah?”

“Drive safe, Gukkie.”

Apparently a bit over 24 hours is enough for a regular amount of clingy Jeongguk to become a very clingy Jeongguk. So it’s Saturday evening and Taehyung is back from his walk with Yeontan, when his phone rings with an incoming call.

They chatted briefly the previous afternoon and exchanged a few messages during the day but most of the alpha’s answers were coming with long delays. Taehyung didn't expect anything else, the group’s been climbing rocks since eerie hours of the morning after all, so he planned Saturday to be the day of nursery furniture research. He’s ordered most of the pieces he needs and he’s incredibly pleased with his productivity.

It doesn’t change the fact that seeing the JJG-130709 <3 on the screen makes his day so much better.

“Hi, baby, you’re back in the cabin?”

“Hello, pup, I miss you.”

“You’re a sap,” Taehyung laughs but internally he preens. Maybe after all it’s right what they say and distance indeed brings fondness. “How were the rocks?”

“Amazing. My muscles are killing me.”

“It doesn't sound amazing, you weirdo. Are you okay?”

“That’s because you’re a couch potato and if you could, you’d never leave your nests,” the alpha giggles and the sound is so unexpected, Taehyung forgets to pretend to be offended. “Are you a pillow princess, too?”

“Jeongguk-ah, are you drunk?” he scolds softly and he’s just happy that they do not do a video call because his rapidly blushing cheeks would only spur Jeongguk to tease him more. “You were going to climb again tomorrow morning. Just be careful, okay?”

“Of course, baby. Don’t worry, it’s my last time drinking for some time so I’m just enjoying a couple of beers, nothing crazy.”

“Why is it the last time?”

“You’re in third trimester, honey, I need to be able to drive you to the hospital at any time,” the alpha explains with a chuckle. “Hopefully Nari’s going to be a good girl and stay put till the due date but we’ll never know.”

Sometimes Taehyung thinks that Jeongguk is too much. There are moments, not rare at all, that make him think that the alpha is not real. And this, right now, is one of them.

“Jeonggukie…” he starts but he’s interrupted by a loud yell.

“JK! Are you talking with your boyfriend?!”

Boyfriend? What is this? Are they boyfriends?

“Yes, shut up, Kim,” Jeongguk bites back but he sounds happy. A bit intoxicated and endearing as always. “I’ll be back in a second.”

“Taehyung-ah,” there’s another voice, much closer than Mingyu’s, and Taehyung’s met him only once, but he’s pretty sure it’s Chan. “Nari is such a cutie, Jeongguk keeps staring at the picture all the time since we left yesterday.”

“They are already fighting over who's gonna be her favourite uncle. I told them that none of them but they do not believe me.” The fact that Jeongguk doesn’t seem to be bothered by all the teasing from his friends makes all the revelations so much better.

“He carried her photo in his chest pocket today, so she’d climb her first rock,” Chan peeps in again.

“Okay, that’s enough. Baby, I need to go or they won’t stop. I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“Of course,” Taehyung whispers, overwhelmed with all the affectionate feelings that bloom in his chest at the moment. “Have fun and enjoy your night, Gukkie.”

“Wait, wait. I forgot to ask, are you and bunny okay?”

“Yes, we are both perfectly fine and you don’t have to worry. Just enjoy yourself and come back safely to us.”

“Always.”

Taehyung hesitates for a split second but he’s too giddy and needs to confirm one thing. “Goodnight, boyfriend.”

And he can practically hear the bunny smile in the answer, “Sweet dreams, boyfriend.”

Luckily, there’s only Yeontan there to judge him for a little happy dance he does after hanging up.

Chapter Text

Another night and day of separation apparently turned Jeongguk into a lovesick puppy as right after picking up Bam from the dog centre, he shows up at Taehyung’s door and doesn’t leave until the omega is barely able to keep his eyes open. After the intense session of scenting, Jeongguk tells Taehyung all about his trip and the rocks they climbed.

Even if the omega is terrified of heights and he could never engage himself in such sport, the photos the alpha took at the reached peaks and (to Taehyung’s utter horror) during climbing are stunning. When he asked how he was even able to take photos while climbing, the next photo showed up.

Jeongguk clearly has a death wish. In the photo, he’s hanging on a flimsy looking rope and only his feet are planted to the natural wall. There are tops of the trees visible under him and the only thought Taehyung has is that the helmet on the alpha’s head looks really piteous and redundant at such height.

But the peculiar setting is not what draws the whole attention in the picture. It’s Jeongguk’s huge bunny smile, radiating with only happiness, even if his face is flushed from exertion. It’s that smile and the reason for it right in his hand. Because the alpha holds the photo of Nari, proudly sticking it in the direction of the camera and pointing at it with his other hand. Taehyung remembers Chan mentioning that Jeongguk was carrying the sonogram picture around, but seeing it and seeing that beaming face still hits him hard.

After that it’s Taehyung’s turn to scent the alpha, overwhelmed with the rush of affection towards his boyfriend.

Monday marking the beginning of a butternut squash week is bittersweet. It’s the last day of birth class and Taehyung is sad to say goodbye to everyone but on the other hand he gets more and more tired so an extra free day in a week is actually quite welcome. He has no idea how Susanna could have done that until labour, same with Felix who looks like he could burst any second now.

Besides, it’s not like it’s the last time he sees the squad. All of the omegas already made plans to have play dates as their pups are going to be the similar age and soon they will probably meet to visit little Sujin.

It doesn’t change the fact that they are a bunch of pregnant omegas and the end of the class is full of tears and subtle scenting of each other.

“And you didn’t get to bring your alpha for any of the classes,” Vicky sighs. “That’s very unfortunate.”

“Who’s unfortunate, is unfortunate,” Namjoon smirks, collecting money from her and Jackson, as well as from his own mate. “As much as I wish you all the best, Taehyungie, I like money too.”

“I can’t believe you made a bet about me!”

“As if only one,” Seokjin snorts and pats his own belly. “We bet about all the relationship milestones, so just wait for it, Kim Namjoon, I’m gonna strip you of all your money.”

Taehyung would like to pretend to be at least a little bit offended but he knows his friends do that because they truly cheer him on and are very invested in his love story. And it’s funny listening to their bickering about who is going to end up with the thickest wallet at the end of this journey. Because apparently they covered everything right up to mating and marriage.

Even he is not thinking about such things yet.

Tuesday is Memorial Day in Korea and Jeongguk’s company gives its employees a day off so Taehyung planned a small bonding time with his pack and boyfriend. All the nursery furniture he ordered during the weekend were delivered the day before, so when Jimin and Yoongi arrive in the early afternoon, two alphas busy themselves with assembling them one by one. Yeontan and Bam observe them from their spots on the couch, joining the “game” from time to time when the rustling of the papers gets too entertaining. In the meanwhile Taehyung and Jimin are appointed to watch over food that was earlier prepared by their head alpha and now just needs to be cooked properly.

“They seem to get along well,” Jimin points out, holding his glass of wine and observing the laughing alphas. “Maybe the Irish bomb is indeed a friendship, as my mate claims it to be.”

“I still can’t believe they went out behind our backs.”

“Me neither. But it’s really cute, Jeongguk is so whipped for you, it’s nice to see. You deserve it, bub.” Jimin’s voice is genuine and there’s pure fondness in his eyes, when he looks at his pregnant friend. None of them expected that when they went to the clinic to put a pup in him but here he is. Courted by an alpha daddy of said pup.

“He really is amazing. Sometimes it’s hard to believe he exists because how can someone be so perfect? Look at this.” Taehyung shows him the photo from the rock climbing. He basically begged Jeongguk to forward it to him, not that he had to, the alpha would do it anyway, but Taehyung wanted to show him how much he loves and wants it. “Who does shit like that?”

“Tae, this is adorable,” Jimin coos and Taehyung can’t help but melt again, looking at the photo with him. He has no idea how much time he spent staring at it but to have an easier access, he even set it as his wallpaper. Jeongguk has yet to see it and it’ll probably make the omega shy but he doesn’t care. He wants to look at his two bunnies whenever he opens the phone. 

Jimin clears his throat and Taehyung looks at him, surprised to see his friend suddenly very uncomfortable. “What is it?”

“Have you… thought what to do about… scenting after birth?”

The question makes him purse his lips. He thought about it indeed. What feels like not long time ago Taehyung’s been contemplating if he’s going to ask Yoongi to scent his pup right after she’s born or not and now he’s having the same dilemma with Jeongguk. He’s never been keen on Yoongi doing it. He’s gonna scent Nari sometime in her first days, to build the bond with a pack through their head alpha, but the first scenting, the one right after birth is a different case. It’s usually done by the alpha father and Taehyung considered letting Yoongi do it because he’s been the most important alpha in his life for a very long time but Jeongguk being in the picture changes a lot.

They’re not there yet, it’s not like he’s gonna ask him today or tomorrow, but seeing the way their relationship progresses, he’s not opposed to the idea. He says so to Jimin.

“I think it’s good. I genuinely think that by the time she’ll be coming, you won’t even be able to imagine Jeongguk not scenting her.”

“Honestly? I think so too. He’s just so whipped for her already, I mean look at him,” Taehyung points his spatula at the living room, where Jeongguk is smiling softly at the newly built changing table, slowly caressing the mat on top of it. “How can I look at him and not think of him as her dad?”

“I mean, that photo you showed me says a lot too. But it’s good, it’s better than if he was having a breakdown that he’s not ready.” 

“He’s dealing with all of it very well. Since the beginning.”

“Did you talk about it? How did he feel when you met for the first time and he found out?” Jimin asks curiously and Taehyung stills for a second.

“Actually, you know what? We haven’t.” He smiles remembering those confused eyes. He’d never think that day that the same handsome stranger would be courting him just a few months later. “I remember how he freaked out when he couldn’t understand why I smelled like him.”

They both laugh, bringing the alphas’ attention to them. “Not the sharpest tool in the shed…”

Taehyung punches Jimin lightly at those words. He remembers Jeongguk mentioning he donated  a long time ago and that he didn’t even think about it. He can’t blame him, it was a surreal situation for him too.

“But seriously, Taehyungie, I’m happy for you.”

The omega smiles, looking again at his alpha, who is now laughing at something Yoongi just said.

“Me too, Jiminie. Me too.”

Memorial Day messed up a bit with Taehyung’s massage schedule but fortunately San got a free slot on Friday and the omega quickly used the opportunity to not miss his weekly visit. He can’t imagine his life anymore without San’s skillful hands and friendliness.

That day the alpha took one of his pups with him to work, so Taehyung spent all of his visit cooing at the cute baby, obedient and well behaved, who was colouring the entire time. After the session he spent another half an hour playing with the pup and Jeongguk had to basically drag him out of the gym because he was getting way too attached.

Now Taehyung was smiling to himself, preparing tea in Jeongguk’s apartment and thinking about the wholesome afternoon. He can’t wait to finally have bunny in his arms. He’s never going to let her go.

“Tae.”

Taehyung turns around, hearing a nervous note in Jeongguk’s voice. Bam whines quietly, sensing his owner’s distress but doesn’t leave Taehyung’s side. “Are you okay, Gukkie?”

“I wanted to talk with you about something.”

“Okay,” Taehyung agrees and smiles reassuringly, even if his mind starts spiralling. Why is the alpha looking so anxious? Everything was fine when they walked their dogs and Taehyung’s pretty sure he hasn’t done anything to upset him since then. “Let’s sit down?”

Jeongguk only nods and leads them to the couch.

They sit in silence for a moment and Taehyung tries not to freak out, just gives the alpha time to gather his thoughts. The only thing that reassures him slightly, is a warm hand wrapped around his fidgety one.

“Baby, are you happy with our courtship?”

That… is not what Taehyung expected. The question throws him off guard so much, he can only gape in shock for a few seconds. “Wha- Of course I am, why wouldn’t I be? You are perfect and you’re taking care of us so well, you’re everything I’ve ever dreamed of finding in a partner. Where did that come from?”

“It’s just… I am really happy too. Like, so happy, Tae. And I saw you today with that pup in the gym and I had this awful thought that you might have this, a family, with someone else and I couldn’t stop thinking about it.”

“Gukkie, I don’t want to belittle your feelings but it’s just silly,” Taehyung assures and takes the alpha’s hand in both of his. “I want a future with you, no one else.”

“I know we agreed to not have any other ongoing courtships but I-” Jeongguk hesitates and the omega is only getting more and more confused. “I’d like to just make clear that I want us to be fully exclusive. Including dates and everything.”

“Honey, we are in a relationship. Doesn’t that mean just that?” Jeongguk’s eyes running around the room make Taehyung’s stomach drop. “Have you been dating?”

“What? Of course not!” Jeongguk seems offended. “Why would you even assume that?”

“Well, my boyfriend just asked me to be exclusive, when I thought we already were. I think you can understand why I’m a bit insecure.”

“No, I just wanted to clarify everything, so there is no misunderstanding. I was drunk when we talked about the boyfriend situation and I was afraid that you’d not take it seriously.”

“But I did, I took it very seriously. And Gukkie, I haven’t even been on a date for ages before I met you. Long before I got pregnant. You have nothing to worry about.”

“I… kinda know that was irrational but my wolf was just nagging me a lot and in general we are quite in tune, especially with our adoration toward you and bunny, so his whining started to reason with me at some point,” the alpha groans hearing Taehyung’s laughter.

“Oh my Luna, you are so cute.” The omega grins and climbs on his boyfriend’s lap. “I know you were stressed but it feels nice knowing how serious you are about us.”

“Of course I am, I’m courting you.” Jeongguk finally smiles, ever so slightly. “I like having you on my lap.”

“That’s a sudden change of topic.”

Jeongguk hums and starts to kiss Taehyung’s neck. “I feel much more assured when I have you this close. I don’t even remember why I was so nervous, stupid wolf.”

“He’s not stupid. You have no idea how often my omega stresses himself about you breaking the courtship.”

“Not gonna happen,” the alpha growls and his kisses turn a bit more forceful, a bit more possessive, almost aggressive.

It’s nothing new for them to suddenly engage in a make out session, they’ve been doing that more and more frequently, but something in Jeongguk’s touches now feel different. It’s not so delicate as usual when it seems like the alpha doesn’t want to hurt Taehyung, only caresses his body lovingly, focusing on the belly, to give bunny some sugar whenever he has a chance. Now there’s purpose in it, even if not to leave marks, it’s territorial, claiming and Taehyung lives for it.

It doesn’t take much for him to feel the slick running between his asscheeks and he’s sure Jeongguk can smell it too, judging by the deep breath he takes and a new energy he claims Taehyung’s lips with his. 

And the alpha is affected too. It spikes Taehyung’s excitement, making his boyfriend groan.

“Baby…”

“Yes, please…”

Not saying anything else Jeongguk stands up, holding the omega in his arms and slowly walking to his bedroom. “Bam, house,” he commands when the dog gets up to follow them.

“Poor Bamie,” Taehyung teases but doesn’t say anything else, seeing the heated look in his alpha's eyes.

Jeongguk closes the door behind them and carefully places Taehyung in the centre of his bed. The omega has only time to notice a very basic nest built around him but before he can get excited that Jeongguk let him in just like that, there is a very eager alpha on top of him.

“Alpha,” he whines, baring his neck in submission.

“Fuck, pup. Keep calling me this and I’ll go crazy.”

“But you are my Alpha. Mine.”

It’s like that was the last push Jeongguk needed. Because soon enough they lose their clothes one by one, each piece being exchanged for the new mark on Taehyung’s neck. Before their underwear is gone they are both panting heavily and the alpha takes a good look at his boyfriend.

His finger traces the dark line going from his belly button right down to the waistband of his boxers and the touch is almost burning. The wave of hotness washes all over Taehyung’s body, starting right from the spots touched by Jeongguk’s fingertip and the omega can only spread his legs a bit further; impatient, bothered and whiny to finally, finally have Jeongguk in the way he’s fantasised about for weeks.

“You look so beautiful, pup,” Jeongguk whispers, hooking his fingers under the material on his hips and slowly dragging the underwear down Taehyung’s legs. “So pretty, all round and glowing. My gorgeous omega.”

He keeps whispering the sweet praises while he prepares Taehyung for him, while he fills him first with one finger, then two, until four are working the omega open and Taehyung is quietly whimpering in pleasure. He’s always loved being fingered, it’s one of his favourite parts of sex - the preparation, because he might be naturally built to take an alpha’s cock and knot, but it feels so much better when he’s first properly stretched. When the first slide in is smooth, filling him to the brim with a single push.

Taehyung can see Jeongguk rutting against the mattress while he takes his time with opening the omega up and kissing around his shaking thighs. The knowledge that his alpha can’t wait to be inside him intensifies his arousal and the slick leaks out of him in a sudden gush.

“Alpha, I’m ready,” he rushes, nudging Jeongguk with his foot to emphasise the urgency of his want. He can’t wait anymore. He’s going to explode if Jeongguk won’t fill him right now.

But thankfully his boyfriend doesn’t try to fight, clearly as eager as him. He swiftly kisses Taehyung’s thigh the last time, pecks his belly and finally straightens up to discharge his own boxers. He then places himself between the omega’s spread legs and looks at him curiously.

“I’ve tested myself and I’m clean, if you’d like to skip condoms,” he muses, dragging his hard cock against one of Taehyung’s asscheeks.

The thought of going bare makes Taehyung whine and nod eagerly. “Yes, please, I want that very much, Alpha.”

The words seem to have a desired effect, as Jeongguk doesn’t hesitate anymore, nor he tries to tease Taehyung, and just pushes in, making them both groan in pleasure. And after that he doesn’t waste time, starting to roll his hips right away and letting his hands roam around freely.

“You are so pretty, my baby,” he once again traces the linea nigra on Taehyung’s belly, moving inside him slowly, almost lazily. “You have no idea how just looking at you is enough for me to go crazy. I could cum any second now, but you feel way too good to end it so fast.”

The omega can’t speak. He can only moan and call his alpha, overwhelmed with the patchouli scent, now heavy and spicy, much more pungent than he’s ever smelled before. It surrounds him, invades all of his senses and Taehyung wants to carry this scent on him everyday. He wants to be permeated with it, for it to come from his own scent gland, the one marked by a mating bite.

“Alpha,” he pleads with the only word that he’s able to utter and Jeongguk fortunately understands.

His movements increase in speed and intensity and he spreads the omega’s legs a bit further apart, to allow himself to get impossibly closer. But soon he drops one of the thighs, supporting the other foot on his shoulder,  to place a tattooed hand on the side of the baby bump.

“I can’t wait to hug you properly. To fuck you harder, oh pup, you have no idea how I have to control myself right now. But I’m so happy, baby,” he kisses Taehyung’s ankle and roams a hand around the belly, not stopping his powerful thrusts and only increasing their speed. He looks down for a second, watches how his cock disappears inside Taehyung and growls. “This is how I’m going to put the next pup inside you, yeah? You’d like that? Shit, you’re so gorgeous and fucking sexy, baby, carrying our pup so well. Fuck, I’m so close.”

Jeongguk pulls out and Taehyung starts to panic. His hazy mind doesn’t understand what is happening, why did his alpha stop without breeding him, knotting him.

Before his clouded brain can interpret it in a totally wrong way, Jeongguk turns him to the side and places himself behind his boyfriend, spooning him, attaching his chest to Taehyung’s back, and sliding right back in.

“Shh, I couldn’t knot you properly before, I couldn’t even hug you,” he hums and as if to prove his words, he envelops Taehyung’s middle, his baby bump, in a delicate embrace. “Oh, Tae, my beautiful baby. Such a perfect omega, perfect father, I couldn’t dream of a better mate. Perfect. Just perfect for me.”

He finally takes Taehyung’s cock in his hand when his movements become erratic. He kisses, sucks, bites around Taehyung’s neck, sometimes getting dangerously close to his scent gland - close enough to spark an excitement, and far enough to not send him into a panic mode. The omega can feel that Jeongguk’s knot is growing and his heart goes into frenzy at the realisation he’s finally going to be filled and bred to the brim.

“Gukkie,” he pants, trying to grab onto something to ground himself a bit. Jeongguk finds him with his free hand and intertwines their fingers, with a reassuring squeeze.

“I got you, pup. Just let go, come for me.”

So he does. And his orgasm hits him so hard, his body starts convulsing in ecstasy. His walls start to pulse and clutch hard around Jeongguk, who moans right in Taehyung’s ear and pushes his knot fully in, filling Taehyung with the waves of his orgasm and sealing them together for the first time.

The next morning Taehyung wakes up from overheating. He blinks his eyes open, not understanding why his back is pressed against a furnace, seemingly turned on at the maximum heat. When his vision comes into focus and he notices that he’s not in his bedroom, the events from the previous night slowly start to register, the same with his beloved patchouli scent that surrounds him.

He turns around to make sure he’s spent the night at his alpha’s, in his nest, after having sex for the first time and his omega growls with pleasure seeing that indeed, Jeongguk is sound asleep behind them, with his tattooed hand under the pillow and a squished cheek against it. Taehyung needs to really restrain himself from squealing and it only proves that inside he’s still a highschool omega, who can’t deal with crushes.

Though what he feels towards Jeongguk long exceeded the term ‘crush’.

He looks around carefully, finally able to examine the simple nest the alpha built in his room. It’s just a couple of pillows and blankets placed seemingly randomly but Taehyung knows the items were not an accident because the colours and texture of the fabrics match with each other. He gets excited when he notices that there’s even his jumper that he left here the other day, stuffed close to the alpha’s head.

Happily, he lies down again, this time facing his boyfriend to stare at him for a bit. It might be a little bit creepy, but Taehyung doesn’t care. Jeongguk is handsome and gorgeous and he’s never seen him so peaceful. He sleeps with a cute little pout, furrowing his brows from time to time and Taehyung can’t help but imagine such expressions on a tinier being and he caresses his bump lovingly. Strangely enough, Jeongguk’s physical appearance is the least alluring thing about him, his boyfriend being an amazing person, kind, funny, smart and loving, but the omega enjoys the fact that their baby might - will - be the cutest little thing when she’s born. Especially if she takes all the bunny features from her alpha father.

He doesn’t have to wait long for Jeongguk to wake up. He barely has time to trace his fingers along his sharp jaw and the slope of his boopable nose, when the alpha starts to stir around. He scrunches his face a few times, effectively melting Taehyung’s already fragile heart, before he finally opens sleepy eyes. His gaze lands on Taehyung immediately and the smitten smile blooms right above the chocolate chip mole.

“Good morning, pup,” he murmurs huskily and reaches to pull Taehyung closer to himself. “How are my cute babies today?”

“We are very well, thank you,” the omega giggles and nuzzles his nose against his boyfriend’s scent gland. “Haven’t slept better in… I honestly don’t know. Probably ever.”

“Same here,” Jeongguk burrows his face in Taehyung’s hair and the position is a bit awkward, because they need to accommodate bunny between them, but both seem to not care at all. “Now you’ll have to sleep with me every day, I don’t want to wake up to anything else from now on.”

“You are such a sap,” the omega whines but it quickly turns into a happy sigh, when his alpha’s hand starts caressing the baby bump.

“Is bunny awake too? Or is the little princess being a sleepyhead?” He tickles the underside of the belly but there’s no response. Taehyung doesn’t feel any movement either so the pup is probably indeed sound asleep. “Hmm, I see. A sleeping beauty just like her appa last night. Couldn’t even wait for the knot to go down to get cleaned and dressed. Everything fell upon me.”

Only then Taehyung notices that he’s wearing Jeongguk’s oversized t-shirt and sweatpants. Yet another claim on him made by his alpha.

“I’m sorry, last night was a lot for me,” he admits shyly and the alpha coos, kissing his forehead.

“A good lot I hope?”

“Of course,” Taehyung looks up to face him properly. “I can’t believe how I got so lucky with you.”

“It’s me who is lucky. I have two perfect pups…”

The alpha’s eyes grow comically wide and when he covers his mouth, Taehyung furrows his brows in confusion. Is he really going to care about the morning breath now?

“Shit, Tae, I am so sorry, I haven’t realised…”

“It’s okay, Jeonggukie, I really don’t-”

“I can’t believe it, we’ve been courting for so short. I am so sorry, it didn’t click until now, oh shit.” Jeongguk covers his eyes and groans. The omega’s about to ask what the hell is he talking about, when he speaks again. “I was also emotional yesterday and it just slipped. I totally didn’t mean to call bunny our pup, I know she’s yours and it’s only your decision how much I’m gonna be involved when she’s born and-”

“Hey, hey, hey,” Taehyung stops him before his adorable boyfriend starts spiralling and freaks out completely. He gently cradles his face between his palms and smiles. “She is ours, Jeongguk. You are her alpha father and we are courting. I want you to be present in both mine and her life, so please don’t stress yourself.”

“Okay,” the alpha breathes out in a whisper.

“Of course only if you want to,” Taehyung adds and Jeongguk immediately shakes his head, still placed between the omega’s palms, and scoots a bit closer.

“There’s nothing I want more.”

“Actually, I know for a fact that you’d really like to put a pup in me in a natural way…” He teases and laughs at the unimpressed look from the alpha.

“Well, that will have to wait for this one to get out first,” Jeongguk tickles the underside of the belly again. “And for you to stop being a brat. Come on, I’m gonna make us some breakfast and then we need to take our two other pups for a walk.”

“Mmm, breakfast the morning after sex? That sounds serious.”

“I’m literally courting you, Tae.”

“Good. But please, don’t bring me any prey hunted by you. I don’t know if I could stomach it.”

“Brat.”

They spend the entire weekend in Jeongguk’s apartment, indulging themselves in movie marathons, take outs and sex. A lot of sex. Taehyung feels like Friday night woke up some beast inside him because he just can’t get enough. Whenever he looks at Jeongguk, even if he’s not doing anything particular, a burning desire lights up at the pit of his stomach. Taehyung’s always liked sex but this is something else. It’s with his alpha and he’s more sensitive than ever, so every touch, every thrust and every kiss brings him to another level of bliss.

And it’s not like Jeongguk is complaining. The alpha seems to be more than happy to please, breed and knot his boyfriend.

By the time Taehyung needs to go to his yoga class on Sunday, he’s pleasantly sore and so relaxed, his stretches are better than ever since he signed up for the practice.

“You reek of sex and alpha.” That’s how Seokjin greeted him but he doesn’t mind the teasing. 

He’s way too overjoyed for it.

Chapter Text

The start of cabbage week means Jeongguk needs to go back to work after 2 days of nesting, so before leaving bed, he scents Taehyung thoroughly. Only when he sees his omega boneless in his nest, he grunts approvingly and gets ready to walk the dogs before leaving for the office.

Taehyung lazes around all day, not very keen on stepping foot out of the apartment permeated with his alpha’s scent. And after some improvements, the bedroom nest took a special place in his heart, so he wouldn’t mind spending every day in it. As simple as it was, it was perfect even before (the fact that the alpha had a proper nest in bed at all was a pleasant surprise), but they added some more pieces that smell like Taehyung, so the omega in him was preening, coaxing him to strut around and brag about his claim on the alpha.

He does, of course. He sends the photo to the group chat with his birth class friends and to the pack chat and all the encouragement in responses lifts his mood even more.

And it turns out that thanks to the past weekend Jackson won some bets.

Taehyung might not bear the mating mark but he is obviously claimed and he can clearly see the difference in the behaviour of the alphas around him. For example, on Tuesday the alpha lifeguard at his local pool doesn’t engage in small talk like he usually did, instead cutting the conversation short with a simple greeting. The writer doesn’t mind, he’s always talked with Hongjoong out of politeness but the change is a bit funny to watch.

Even San seems to notice, despite the scent blockers that Taehyung always uses when he goes to the gym.

“Oh, wow, Tae, your alpha doesn’t mess around, huh? He could pee on you and it wouldn’t be any more effective in marking you.”

“Yah, that’s gross, why would you say that,” he whines from his position against the birth ball. “We are not animals.”

“We are, that’s why we are so possessive. Especially during the pregnancy and postnatal period and if that was not enough, you just started a relationship. I bet Jeongguk-ssi is going crazy whenever you are away.”

“He got a bit protective,” Taehyung muses, thinking about all the scenting sessions he loves so much. And Jeongguk clearly does too. “But I don't mind. It’s nice to belong to someone.”

“I get it. I always feel a bit out of place at work because I can’t smell Woo on me. After our Hwannie was born, I had to take an additional week off because I couldn’t stand not carrying my family’s scent on me.”

“I love your love story, it’s nice to see a relationship like yours. You were barely fledglings when you got together and you’re still happily in love, with beautiful pups.”

“Yeah, we got lucky. But your case is much more exciting.”

They both snort at that. It’s true, there’s no point in denying it. The probability of getting together in such a way is so low, it’s almost impossible. But it happened to Taehyung and he couldn’t be more thankful.

“Anyway, judging by all those developments and how territorial your alpha is, I have a feeling that soon we’re gonna stop seeing each other.”

Taehyung just hums and focuses on the massage. There’s no way he’s going to survive without them, so Jeongguk will have to suck it up and live with it.

After the massage, he goes home with Jeongguk. Since their almost accident, the alpha doesn’t trust anyone on the road and drives extra carefully whenever he has Taehyung with bunny on board and Taehyung couldn’t be more enamoured with him. He was a bit skittish at the beginning himself, but after all those weeks, he is way more relaxed in the car now. But he understands, so he never makes fun or even comments when Jeongguk checks both sides five times before going when the lights turn green.

The evening is rainy, so Jeongguk bans Taehyung from going out and takes two dogs to the park on his own, leaving the omega in charge of dinner. And Taehyung isn’t surprised to find two cabbages in the fridge but it still makes his heart grow. Jeongguk is so excited about this pregnancy and bunny, but before his first slip during sex he’s never made any claim on her. He’s sure the alpha’s going to be over the moon after Taehyung’s proposition tonight.

Jeongguk comes back totally drenched so he takes two muddy dogs to the bathroom to give them a quick wash and then takes a warm shower himself. By the time he’s done, Taehyung’s already waiting with hot soup and some side dishes. And it makes the omega particularly proud that he can take care of his mate well, when he sees Jeongguk’s angry eyebrows throughout the whole meal.

After the dinner they sit down on a couch and everything about the last few days screams domesticity and family. Right now they are not even doing anything special. They are just snuggling on the couch and after a few minutes of scenting and lazy kisses, they stay cuddled but each does their own thing. Jeongguk is scrolling on his phone, sometimes showing Taehyung a funny video with cute animals and Taehyung turns on the drama Jimin and Seokjin have been recommending him for some time. Yeontan lies on his thighs and Bam demands pets from his spot on the floor. It’s hard to believe it could get any more perfect, but just in a bit over two months their happiness will grow infinitely.

When the second episode is about to start, Taehyung gets up to light some candles. The sun has set and he doesn’t enjoy watching anything in total darkness, the only exception being the cinemas, but to keep the peaceful ambience he refuses to turn on lamps.

Jeongguk doesn’t even question him when he gets up and starts rummaging through the drawers. As if it was perfectly normal for the alpha that Taehyung acts like he’s home in his apartment. 

He’s in the middle of checking all the scented candles that Jeongguk owns, when his boyfriend speaks up, “Honey, did you know that some people eat their placenta? Why would anyone do that?” The disgust is clear on his face and Taehyung can’t help but giggle.

“I know. A lot of people believe it has some beneficial properties for you.”

“It’s gross. Please, don’t do this”

“I don’t plan to,” Taehyung sends him a comforting smile over his shoulder. Jeongguk is still staring at his phone that must display some disturbing images, if his frown is anything to go by. “There's a risk that omega won’t digest it properly, so I’ve never considered it. And I agree that it’s disgusting. Do you have any other candles? Nothing here appeals to me today.”

“Oh, sure. They’re in the other cabinet.” The alpha waves his hand, scrolling through his phone again.

Taehyung goes there, on his way petting two dogs that moved to sleep, curled around each other on Bam’s bed. He checks a few drawers, finding most of the candles’ fragrances too strong or just stinky but finally he opens one entirely filled with vanilla scented candles. He’s a bit surprised because Jeongguk’s never lighted those but admittedly the alpha has been very careful about Taehyung’s sensitive nose, and uses only very mild ones, so maybe it’s not that weird after all.

He lits a few, placing them around the living room and when he finally gets back to his spot next to his boyfriend, the man takes a tentative sniff and looks at Taehyung surprised.

“You chose vanilla?”

“Yeah, I love them. And I guess you do too, because you have like the entire stock of those,” he teases, shoving the alpha gently. “Why do you never use them if you like them so much?”

Jeongguk looks at him in silence with a slightly tilted head, as if Taehyung’s words were beyond confusing for him. “Well, because I thought that you don’t.”

“What? Why would you think that?”

“Because you told me so.”

And this time it’s Taehyung who is surprised. He doesn’t remember any conversation about vanilla scented candles and how on earth Jeongguk would get such information.

“After your first massage with the first masseur you told me that he used vanilla scented oil and you hated it. You were so distressed back then so I just storaged them to use maybe when the smell doesn’t irritate you anymore after pregnancy.”

Taehyung is quiet for a couple seconds, considering his options. As always, his alpha proved to be the best alpha he could ask for, being an attentive and caring partner who puts Taehyung’s needs above his own tastes. Yet, in this case it was just not necessary at all. After the explanation, the omega remembers how he didn’t want to admit how he hates the scent of lavender and he just blurted out the first strong fragrance that came to his mind. He had no idea that this little white lie would have any influence on Jeongguk’s life.

But apparently it did and now his boyfriend expects some clarification. Which Taehyung is just really ashamed to give. He has to though, so he looks at his hands embarrassed and mumbles, “I lied.”

“What? What do you mean, baby?”

“It was not the vanilla scent that made me so skittish back then. I just said whatever, because I didn’t want to tell you the truth.”

He worries his bottom lip between his teeth, waiting for the reaction. Which again surprises him, “Would you like to tell me now or do you prefer to keep it for yourself?”

A warm palm cups his baby bump and he looks up to see a soft gaze never leaving his face. He sighs and looks back down on his hands. “It was lavender.”

It seems like at first Jeongguk doesn’t understand why Taehyung would lie about hating that particular scent but after a few seconds he must connect the dots.

“Oh,” he lets out, surprised. “It’s okay, pup. It’s only understandable.”

“But back then we were not even dating yet,” Taehyung sighs, baring his neck to the alpha who starts to scent him, dragging his nose from his collarbone up to his ear. “I was just being stupid.”

“You were not stupid, I would probably hate the scent of any alpha that I’d smell from you, too” Jeongguk reassures him, leaving little kisses around his scent gland. “It wouldn’t matter if I smelled them even before we became close. The moment we did, I would despise any scent that I would associate with your previous partner. It’s natural, we are territorial and you are pregnant at that. But I have to admit I’m flattered and quite happy you are so possessive over me,” Jeongguk whispers huskily and Taehyung whines weakly.

He has important things to talk about but it seems like those have to wait for now, because his boyfriend is very determined to prove to him that Taehyung has nothing to worry about and that he belongs to the omega.

Just like Taehyung belongs to Jeongguk.

They are lying in bed afterwards, Taehyung with his head resting on Jeongguk’s chest, listening to his rapidly beating heart and Jeongguk with one arm wrapped around the omega’s shoulders, the other hand caressing his belly.

“Do you think she knows what we were just doing?” he suddenly asks and Taehyung snorts. The small chuckles quickly turn into a full on laughter and the alpha just looks at him with pouty lips. “Don’t laugh at me. I don’t want her to think I’m hurting you or something.”

“Gukkie, how can you be so cute is beyond me, I swear,” Taehyung laughs again and cradles his boyfriend’s face between his palms. “I am sure she has absolutely no idea what is happening out here. And while your dick is impressively long, you also don’t have to worry that you’re stabbing her in the head with it.”

“Oh my Luna, Tae!” Jeongguk groans and tickles Taehyung’s sides mercilessly. “You are such a pervert. I am worried here to not give trauma to our daughter and you do what? Just making nasty jokes. An example you give, seriously…”

The omega bursts out laughing again, both from tickles and Jeongguk’s words. Are they really courting only for three weeks? Sometimes Taehyung feels like they’ve been like this all his life. He’s never been this content and viscerally happy. He’s been in some relationships before but none of them felt like this. Not even close. None of them were horrible or anything like that, just… they were not it. He’s never been with anyone he could imagine the rest of his life with.

And now he finally can.

“Besides, if you are so worried about her, why don’t you ask her if she's traumatised?” Taehyung breathes out when Jeongguk finally stops tickling him and they are back to cuddling.

“What do you mean?”

“Would you like to go with me for my next prenatal visit on Thursday?”

The silence that answers him is more than concerning. Taehyung gives Jeongguk a few seconds but when half a minute passes he squirms slightly, uncomfortable and nervous. He looks up to check if he can read something on his boyfriend’s face. But before he can see his expression, Jeongguk whines a loud “Tae!” and hides his head in the junction of Taehyung’s neck and shoulder.

The alpha proceeds to scent him thoroughly for the second time during the last hour and both Taehyung and his omega go all soft in his arms, letting him do as he wishes. After leaving another set of marks and kisses around his scent gland, Jeongguk just nuzzles the spot and stays there, snuggled to Taehyung’s side as close as he can.

“Is that a yes?” the omega asks quietly, caressing his black strands, still damp from their previous activities.

“Yes,” Jeongguk mumbles and kisses his pulse point. “I’d love to. More than anything.”

“I’m happy, then.”

And when he’s drifting away to sleep, sated to his core and feeling safe in his alpha’s arms, right before he falls asleep he hears a soft “Thank you, Tae”, whispered against his nape.

The whole Wednesday Taehyung can see that Jeongguk is a nervous wreck. He obsessively cleans the entire apartment and for a second the omega even thinks about going home to give him some space. But the moment his boyfriend realises what is happening, he wraps Taehyung in one of the blankets and sits with him in the nest in the living room. After that Taehyung just lets him be and busies himself with watching another episode of the drama he started watching the day before.

On Thursday, a bit before noon, the two meet at the clinic as Jeongguk has to go back to work immediately after their appointment and he wouldn’t have time to pick up and drop Taehyung off at their building.

Jimin was very disappointed that he’s not going to see bunny (for the first time) but he understands and fully supports Taehyung’s decision about letting Jeongguk be more and more involved as a parent. They’ve been courting for a really short time but the omega knows already that this is it. Jeongguk is his and their pup’s endgame and there’s no reason to keep his two bunnies apart. Especially when he knows how the two are fond of each other already.

When the nurse lets them into the doctor Song’s office, Taehyung immediately gets comfortable at his usual place and has to encourage his boyfriend to sit next to him because the poor man is just standing by the door, fiddling with his hands nervously. What is he scared of - Taehyung doesn’t know. It’s just a quick ultrasound and the doctor is probably going to ask routine questions. But it is Jeongguk's first visit after all, so he doesn’t know what the whole process looks like. Even though he didn’t ask about anything, Taehyung suspects that he’s read everything about pregnancy check-ups to prepare himself. It’s hard to say if it helped at all.

“Hey, Gukkie, it’s okay. It’s just an ultrasound and I will have to answer some questions from my doctor, that’s it.”

“I know, pup, I am not nervous about the check-up itself.” He smiles weakly and intertwines their fingers.

“What is it then?”

“I am meeting bunny for the first time,” Jeongguk admits quietly, avoiding the eye contact, and staring instead at the medical equipment. “I don’t know, what if she doesn’t like me here.”

“And what is she going to do, show you a finger through the ultrasound?” Taehyung cackles but when he receives a glare he drops his attempts at humour. “Sweetheart, she’s the happiest when we are next to you, I assure you of that. And she’d never not want you here. Never. If anything, she’d kick me out and keep you here.”

“That’s not true,” Jeongguk protests but finally smiles a little. It’s not his signature bunny grin but it’s something. “You’ll always be her favourite.”

“I don’t believe that at all but I appreciate that you think so.”

They chuckle quietly and doctor Song finally enters the office, exactly at the moment when Jeongguk places a soft kiss on Taehyung’s knuckles.

“Good afternoon, Taehyung-ssi, good to see you again. And good afternoon, Jeongguk-ssi. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you,” the doctor greets them in his usual enthusiastic manner. “I must admit, I don’t often witness people meeting the way you did. Your story is very unique.”

Taehyung giggles, observing the redness taking over his boyfriend’s face from the embarrassment. He’s so easy to tease, sometimes it’s just hilarious.

“Jokes aside, Taehyung-ssi, please pull your shirt up and let’s see your little menace.”

“A menace is going to be Dojoon,” Taehyung murmurs to Jeongguk, while following the doctor’s instructions. “Seokjin is mad because it appears that their pup never sleeps.”

The alpha grins at him and then focuses solely on the doctor’s moves. He observes how he turns on the machine and squeezes the gel onto the belly. When doctor Song uses the transducer to spread the liquid around, Taehyung as usual winces in discomfort. He may have gone through the procedure a couple times already but it doesn’t get any more pleasant.

But soon enough the room fills with the sound of a little pup’s heartbeat and he turns to see Jeongguk’s reaction.

The alpha gapes at the baby bump with a slightly opened mouth and the hold he has on Taehyung’s hand tightens.

“Okay, now let’s see her,” the doctor mumbles and the screen suddenly lights up with the image and Jeongguk moves his eyes to look at bunny there. “As usual, a perfect model.” He checks on them and smiles, just holding the transducer after finding the perfect angle and letting them have a moment.

“Oh my Luna, Tae,” Jeongguk whispers, not moving his gaze even a millimetre from the screen. “She really is in there.”

“Of course, she’s in there,” Taehyung smiles fondly and caresses the alpha’s hand with his thumb. “How do you think I am getting bigger and bigger every week?”

Jeongguk snorts and bunny kicks her little leg, the movement visible on the screen. They both gasp and wait a couple seconds but when nothing else happens, the alpha deflates a little. “Oh, I thought she is-” he’s interrupted by another kick. “-awake.” And another kick.

“You see, she is happy you’re here,” the omega tells him with a big grin. “Say something more.”

“What do you want me to say?” It appears that bunny doesn’t really care what is being said, as long as she can hear her alpha father’s voice because she punches her fist now. “Is she really reacting to me like this?”

“It looks like it,” doctor Song answers him with a chuckle, trying to catch a perfect moment for the photo when the pup is not moving.

“Oh my Luna,” Jeongguk chokes out and hides his face in his free hand. Taehyung coos and tries to console his boyfriend but it’s hard when he still is being examined and the alpha doesn’t cooperate, just going through a small breakdown.

It doesn’t escape Taehyung’s attention that his boyfriend has exactly the same reaction as his head alpha had at his first visit and the warmth spreads right from his heart through his entire body. Two most important alphas in his life, and Nari’s life in extension, are already so whipped for his little pup and this is nothing short of his dreams coming true.

He’s brought back from his reverie when there’s a hand on his belly, the upper part of it, without gel, put there by Jeongguk.

“Hello, bunny,” he says in a slightly shaky voice and laughs happily, when he receives a kick in response. “Yes, I’m here with your appa. It’s so good to see you, little one. I’ve seen photos before but now I can see how you’re moving your cute arms and feet,” the alpha keeps babbling, caressing the bump and staring at the screen with teary eyes. “This is amazing and soon you’re gonna be here with us, sweetie. Oh Luna, I love you so much.” Jeongguk leans down and places a soft kiss at the gel-less spot.

What?

Taehyung can feel his head start to spin and he can’t focus anymore on anything that’s happening around him.

Did he just tell her that he loves her?

Taehyung’s heart goes into overdrive and he’s happy that the ultrasound can only pick up Nari’s heartbeat or it would become very embarrassing for him. But how is he supposed to react when Jeongguk tells their daughter that he loves her? For the first time?

They didn’t say that to each other yet. Taehyung didn’t even think he’s going to hear this word for quite some time and didn't plan to drop the confession on his own in the near future. And it might not be directed at him but it is directed at their pup, which somehow is even more precious.

He doesn’t hear any other thing coming out of his boyfriend’s mouth, too fixated on the l word and he just stares at Jeongguk with a quickened heartbeat and an urge to drop the same bomb on him right here and right now.

As usual when he feels overwhelmed, the moment he steps into his apartment he marches to the bedroom and changes into Jeongguk’s clothes that he stole the other night. He’s pretty sure the alpha is aware that his sweats and a few tees disappeared in “unexplained” circumstances but he didn’t comment on it, so Taehyung doesn’t overthink it. He just enjoys having comfortable clothes that can fit his changing body and surround him with the beloved scent.

When he’s all changed, he just rolls into his nest and after hiding bunny in her little burrow, he falls asleep, replaying in his mind over and over again the confession he heard in the doctor’s office.

He wakes up to the high pitched barks of Yeontan and at first he doesn’t understand what is happening or why he is in bed when it’s so bright outside. Only after another scolding from his dog, he realises someone is relentlessly knocking at the entrance door.

That finally gets him out of bed and he doesn’t even bother to put on his slippers, opting to walk barefoot. He checks through the peephole that it’s Jeongguk and opens the door with a sleepy “Hi”, just to be immediately engulfed in a hug.

“Thank Luna, you’re okay,” Jeongguk breathes out in an obvious relief and kisses the top of his head. “You worried me so much, pup, why didn't you answer all day? I’ve been texting and calling you for hours and if I wasn’t out of the city for the whole afternoon, I would just rush home earlier.”

“Sorry, Alpha, I was asleep,” he mumbles, burrowing his face in Jeongguk’s chest, still a bit mellow after his nap. His boyfriend seems to catch up quickly, what state he’s in, because he locks the door and takes off the shoes without loosening his hold on Taehyung. They waddle a bit awkwardly to the living room and just set themselves in the nest on the couch.

This time it’s Taehyung who scents Jeongguk, as he’s been permeated with the patchouli scent from nesting for half of the day, and the alpha barely smells even like himself, scent blockers only starting to slowly fade away. 

And it's family time now, they are family, they both love their daughter and Jeongguk needs to smell like them, like Taehyung and Nari, his omega and pup, his family, he needs to smell like them and Taehyung needs to do a good, thorough job, to ensure the scent doesn’t fade away.

Never fades away.

When there’s barely any patchouli distinctable on the alpha, Taehyung finally sighs in relief and goes limp in his boyfriend’s hold. The alpha chuckles softly and kisses his forehead. “You’re so cute, pup.”

“Missed you,” Taehyung mumbles, not having any energy to change position into something more comfortable for his boyfriend.

“I missed you too, baby. Always am.”

They nest for roughly half an hour before the omega is awake enough to get up so they can walk their dogs. The nostalgia hits Taehyung when they are walking hand in hand, sharing kisses from time to time and laughing at Bam’s restlessness, while Yeontan looks at him with clear judgement. The poor doberman was lately a bit neglected by his owner, their frequent joggings being replaced with shorter walks in order for his human to be able to laze in bed. They’ve come a long way since the start of their dog walking arrangement and Taehyung couldn’t imagine a better outcome. 

At home they spend some time in the kitchen cooking dinner and trying to make use of those two cabbages that Jeongguk brought from his fridge and by the time they are done, Taehyung is positively exhausted. He just wants to climb into his nest and fall asleep with a familiar body spooning him.

It makes him nervous. He’s never had any alpha in his main nest. Even when during college he had someone over, he always got rid of it first. But this situation is different. He’s longing to turn his nest into their nest, just as they did with Jeongguk’s upstairs.

The nest in the living room is important to him too but it’s something that anyone can see when they visit, he has no problem snuggling with Jimin or Yoongi there, he often even wishes for Hoseok to come back soon so he can finally get him there as well. And of course Jeongguk has by now unrestrained access to it.

But the bedroom one… It’s his haven, the sacred place, somewhere where he dots on his daughter, where they seek comfort and safety. The implication behind inviting Jeongguk there is tremendous. Probably more significant even than the start of their courtship.

“I’d like to show you something,” he finally says shyly, taking Jeongguk’s hand.

His boyfriend sends him a curious look but follows him blindly without question. When he opens the door, Taehyung is a nervous wreck but it’s too late to chicken out now. He doesn't want to anyway.

They step into the bedroom and while Jeongguk looks around curiously, Taehyung just snuggles to him, hiding his face in his alpha’s neck. He knows exactly the moment Jeongguk notices the nest because his whole body goes rigid and the soothing caresses at the base of Taehyung’s spine stop.

“Tae, it’s your…” he breathes out, pulling the omega closer to himself.

“Do you like it?” Taehyung asks in a small voice, feeling the most vulnerable in his entire life. It’s his doomsday and he doesn’t know what he’s going to do with himself if his alpha doesn’t approve of the safe place he built for their daughter.

“Do I-” Jeongguk takes a deep breath and gently pushes the writer away to be able to take his face between his warm palms. “Do I like it? Tae, baby, it’s the most beautiful nest in the whole world.” The kiss to his forehead finally soothes Taehyung a bit. “You are so talented, my omega. You even thought about a little cove for our baby girl to keep her super safe. She has her own personal bunny burrow, it’s perfect.”

The omega in Taehyung howls in victory and he just leans into the touch against his cheek, overwhelmed and sated. The sincerity and fondness is clear in those doe eyes and that gives him another boost of courage.

“Would you like to stay tonight?”

“Pup…” Jeongguk’s voice cracks a bit. He understands. Taehyung knew he would. “In your nest? Are you sure?”

“I am sure. It’s not complete without you. Not anymore.”

The alpha leans down to nudge their noses together, and stays close, their foreheads touching and breaths mingling. “I’d love to stay.”

They are again in front of the bed after showering, Jeongguk visibly giddy and waiting for permission to enter. Taehyung gets in first, rearranging the walls a bit to accommodate another person and his boyfriend observes his every move.

“It’s not p-perfect, I need to rebuild it to fit the-the three of us from now on but I-I think it should be enough for today. If you agree! I can quickly change it now, I have a few blankets and other clothes in my closet and-”

“Pup, hey,” Jeongguk gets closer but doesn’t touch the bed, just reaches out to tenderly caress Taehyung’s cheek. “It’s so cosy like this and I can’t imagine it getting any better. We’ll have to keep cuddling the whole night and if you ask me, that’s quite awesome.”

The omega laughs quietly and finally lies down and looks up at his boyfriend with expecting eyes. “Please, join me, Alpha?”

He can see the excitement and enthusiasm in Jeongguk’s movements. And while he seems to be impatient to get in as fast as possible, he is still very careful to not destroy anything. He settles behind the omega and wraps his arms around him, placing a possessive hand on the underside of the baby bump. Protecting them like two precious treasures.

“It’s very comfy in here,” he murmurs against Taehyung’s nape, placing small kisses on the uncovered skin afterwards. “As snug as a bug in a rug.”

Taehyung snorts at the ridiculousness of his boyfriend and wiggles himself further into the embrace. “Did you just call me a bug?”

“My two cute, little bugs.” The omega can feel him smile against his shoulder. He moves his hand from under the belly to one of his thighs and starts to massage it. Taehyung groans and loosens up at the sweet ministrations. “Does it feel good?”

“So good, I regret not inviting you in here earlier.”

This time it’s Jeongguk who chuckles, but he doesn’t stop the massage. When he’s done with one leg, he moves his hand between Taehyung’s legs and in limited space tries to treat the second thigh as well. “Pup?”

The omega hums, to let him know he’s listening but he’s way too relaxed to hold a proper conversation.

“How do you feel about… cancelling your appointments with San-ssi.”

“Not very well, I need those massages like oxygen,” he mumbles without thinking.

“But what if someone else would massage you?”

“Honey, I don’t think I can find another masseur. You know what a flop the first one turned out to be and I don’t think I’m gonna find anyone better than San-ah.”

“I meant me, you dummy.”

Taehyung furrows his brows and turns back slightly to be able to see his boyfriend’s face. But the butterflies in his stomach already erupted in enthusiasm. “What do you mean?”

“I may have secretly taken a massage course,” the alpha admits shyly, retrieving his hand from between Taehyung’s legs and moving it to take care of his loins as much as the close proximity allows him to. “For mates of pregnant omegas. And I’m pretty sure I can do at least as good of a job as San-ssi.”

“He's been a trained masseur for a couple of years,” Taehyung teases, not knowing how to react to the confession without tearing up. “But if you’re so confident, you can try to convince me and if by the end of the week I find your skills worthy, I will cancel all of the future sessions.”

Needless to say Jeongguk indeed gained some skills and at the end of the weekend Taehyung’s muscles are more relaxed than ever in his entire life and he’s convinced that he really will be able to survive without sessions with San. When he says so to his boyfriend, the proud and smug look on the alpha’s face is all he needed to reassure himself in his decision.

Chapter Text

Taehyung cancels his scheduled massage appointments after his Tuesday's visit. He convinced Jeongguk that he and San became sort of friends, and he doesn’t want to just disappear without a word, so he should go for the last session to say goodbye. Of course the masseur understands the situation and even laughs that he predicted this exact scenario a few days before.

The coconut week is unfortunately very busy for Jeongguk, so Taehyung finds himself with a lot of free time which he decides to spend on catching up socially. 

The omegas from the birthing class finally agreed on a date to visit Susanna and little Sujin. Felix offered to buy a gift on behalf of all of them, so on Wednesday afternoon Taehyung just picks up Seokjin and Vicky, and the three of them go to the Kims’ household.

“So, any updates?” Vicky leans in between the seats to have a better view of Taehyung’s face and Jin also turns in his seat.

“What do you mean? And sit properly, you are ready to burst any minute and I don’t want to hurt you if I have to suddenly brake,” he scolds softly and she listens with a scoff.

“You sound just like Jackson.”

“You have a very wise mate.”

“Oh, cut that crap, Taehyungie,” Seokjin interjects impatiently. “Is there any progress with your alpha?”

“You are only curious because you want to make money on me,” the driver snorts but indulges them. “Actually, yes. I invited him to my nest.”

“When?!” Hyung exclaims, taking out his phone to check the calendar.

“Uh… I don’t know? Friday? No, wait. Thursday. After my control visit. Which was also Jeongguk’s first one. I don’t know what bets you have but it was a pretty big step for us.”

“Vicky, we need to eliminate your mate. He wins way too often and I don’t like it.” Jin turns around and sends her a disapproving look.

“At least you don’t live with him and you don’t have to listen to his bragging,” she grimaces. “But it’s great to hear Tae, you and your pup deserve someone to take care of you. I don’t doubt you’d manage on your own but we all know how much Jeongguk means to you.”

“Yeah, and don’t mind our stupid games. We do it for a bit of thrill and fun but we really cheer on you and all of us want you to be with someone who is good for you,” Seokjin assures him and squeezes his arm affectionately. “We love to see you this happy.”

“I am happy. So happy it sometimes hurts, you know what I mean?” Taehyung whines, parking in front of a cute house.

“Yeah, you are gone, sweetie. But I am sure Jeongguk is too, so it’s all fine.”

The whole meeting is basically a little battle between all of the omegas on whose turn it is to carry Sujin and for how long they can hold him. While the pup is being handed over from arms to arms, the new mom takes the opportunity to take a shower and after a long coaxing - a nap. Woosung stays with the guests to entertain them as well as answer all of their questions as best as he can. Taehyung can see that the alpha is still trying to grab his footing in parenthood but the evident love in his eyes when he looks at his son awakes a weird longing in the writer.

Because he really can’t wait to see this look on Jeongguk’s face. For his boyfriend to hold their baby girl, carry her around babbling and professing his love to her. He knows this is not an unreachable dream anymore, hell, it’s not even that distant future right now, but he still longs for it. He needs to have her here. He needs to be able to hold both of his bunnies and this will be the moment he becomes fulfilled.

When he looks around, he sees the same craving on the faces of other omegas. Felix and Vicky are days away from giving birth already, Yeonjun probably next in the line, Taehyung and Seokjin being the last ones, but all of them yearn for exactly the same thing - to finally share the happiness of Susanna and Woosung and hold their baby in their aching arms. Because they might carry them under their hearts but that first time when the pups are going to be placed at their chest, right above those very same hearts - this is gonna be their real “dream come true” moment. 

It’s funny, how there’s a whole plethora of uncles and an aunt that fight among themselves who is going to change the diaper of little Sujin. They are all so eager to take care of a pup, they even argue who is going to handle a poop incident. Ardent. Restless. Impatient.

And when he drives home, he sees with the corner of his eye and in the rearview mirror how Seokjin and Vicky keep caressing their baby bumps all the way to their places.

***

It’s awful.

Taehyung tosses around in his nest, huffing and puffing, unable to sleep. It’s been four nights since the last time Jeongguk slept with him and he doesn’t know how much longer he can handle it. And tonight it seems bunny is done with this bullshit as well.

“Why can’t you just go to sleep?” The omega whines, looking with a distinctable scold in his eyes at his belly but the only thing he receives in an answer is a kick to his bladder. He throws away the covers aggressively, so he can get up. “Awesome. Now I have to go to pee, you ungrateful brat.”

He feels bad right after the words come out of his mouth. Nari’s just a baby, probably missing her daddy’s scent, not able anymore to be soothed without it. And Taehyung sympathises with her. Even if their nest still smells like the alpha, it’s not the same without the source of their beloved scent.

Nonetheless, they will have to have a serious conversation about making appa’s life hard, when they finally meet.

After a quick bathroom break, Taehyung crawls back to bed and grabs his phone, because if he can’t sleep anyway, he can at least watch some silly TikToks that are probably piling up in his inbox. Jimin really needs some therapy for his addiction.

But before he can open an app that displays over sixty unread notifications in a little red circle, a text message notice pops up on the screen. He clicks on it and frowns seeing the content.

JJG-130709 <3: Hi, baby. I just got home and I’m exhausted. Thank Luna it’s Friday or I’d shoot myself, I swear. I miss you so much, our little bunny too. Please, come over the moment you wake up. Just use the code, I didn’t lock the door from the inside. I’ll probably be asleep but I want to wake up next to the two of you. Sweet dreams, honey, or more like good morning <3

Taehyung checks the time and frowns even further seeing it’s already 3 am. He knows Jeongguk’s team has been working on some big project the last couple of months, the apogee of work being this week, but it still feels a bit extreme to work till such late hours.

He contemplates his options for a second but in the end, there’s nothing really to think about. So he gets up again, putting only a robe and slippers on, grabs Yeontan from his dog bed and rushes upstairs. The door opens after entering the code, just as promised. He tries to be quiet while getting inside, not sure when Jeongguk sent his message - when he got home or already in bed - and he doesn’t want to risk waking him up.

To his surprise, they are welcomed by Bam, who is standing in the hall with a wagging tail. Thankfully the dog seems to understand it’s not the time for barking and over-affectionate greetings, and when Taehyung sets Yeontan on the floor, the two just walk to the living room.

The omega then tiptoes to the bedroom and peeks inside through the open door.

Jeongguk is lying there in the nest, shirtless and having only half of his lower half body covered by the blanket, his muscular arms sprawled around his head and eyebrows scrunched. It’s hard to say if he’s asleep but all the uncertainty is dispelled when Taehyung walks closer to bed and the alpha opens his eyes.

“Pup? What are you doing here?” he asks groggily and shuffles to make more space.

“I couldn’t sleep,” Taehyung whispers, crawling his way into the nest. “And then bunny kicked my bladder and I had to get up to go to the bathroom, and then you texted and I just wanted to sleep with you.”

The alpha hums and covers them properly. “Is our baby girl acting out?”

“She misses her daddy. You spoiled us lately and it’s weird when we are not together.”

“Sorry, pups, I promise I’m all yours again now.”

Jeongguk wiggles a bit down to nuzzle his nose against Taehyung’s scent gland, and to wrap himself around the baby bump. The omega throws his thigh around his waist and cradles as much of his boyfriend in his arms as he can.

“I missed this,” the alpha sighs. “I missed you, baby. I hated this week.”

“Did you finish everything?”

“Yeah. The deadline was tight because one of the idiots in sales has no clue how much time it takes to prepare a demo of a game, but we managed. And no more overtime for me, I already told my manager it’s not gonna happen again.”

“So assertive,” Taehyung murmurs and leaves a small kiss on top of his head. He starts stroking the alpha’s hair and the sigh of contentment leaves his lips.

“Of course. I have two pups I need to take care of. I don’t have time for such fuckery.”

“Language.”

Jeongguk bites his collarbone softly in retaliation for the scolding, making him squirm and giggle.

“Let’s go to sleep, huh?”

But he doesn’t receive the answer anymore. So he just smiles and closes his eyes, to join his boyfriend in the blissful sleep.

They spend most of Saturday morning in bed, doing nothing, just soaking each other’s presence after a few dry days. This time it’s Taehyung who takes their dogs for a walk as he insists the alpha needs to rest and that Bamie is probably even more protective of him than Jeongguk, so he’d for sure behave. And indeed, the doberman doesn’t pull the leash once. Even when they pass the flock of pigeons that he loves to chase after, he remains a brave dog and doesn’t go for a play-hunt.

They say goodbye only in the afternoon, when Taehyung has to drive to his pack house because Yoongi demanded the pack dinner, probably the last one before Hoseok’s comeback. The beta was supposed to know an exact date of his arrival by today, so Taehyung has to admit he’s a bit giddy to get there already. Jeongguk can’t join them this time, having plans with his own squad, but while they’re kissing in the underground garage, he promises that he’s going to accompany him for the next gathering.

He doesn’t knock when he and Yeontan arrive, there’s also no one greeting them. Taehyung may have moved out months ago but it’s still his home and always will be, so he’s actually glad there’s no welcome. It gives him a sense of stability. There might be changes in his life - some small, some huge - but there are also things that are constant. And one of them is his pack.

When he gets to the kitchen, Jimin is taking out a cake from the oven.

“Do I smell coconut?”

“Of course,” the omega answers, not even sparing him a glance. “What else could Yoongi prepare this week?”

Taehyung takes on himself laying the table, knowing there’s probably nothing else to help with. He steps into the living room to find Yoongi already connecting his laptop with the TV, so they can see Hoseok properly, when they start a video call.

“Hi Hyung.”

“Hello pup, how is our princess?” Yoongi comes closer and puts a careful hand on a baby bump. He receives a welcome kick and the gummy smile immediately blooms on his face. “Hello to you too, sweetheart.”

“She’s doing fine, except that she started to kick my bladder. I do not appreciate that.”

“You will survive. If she needs to stretch, she needs to stretch.”

“Aish, what is this? Not even born yet, and she’s taking over my place as the most favourite pack member?”

“Yes,” comes an answer in Yoongi’s snort and Jimin’s yell from the kitchen.

He only shakes his head. It’s not like it’s news for him, everyone is whipped for bunny already but Jeongguk at least scolds her a little, gently demands her to give her appa a break (even if usually she doesn’t listen). Here in the pack house it is just coddling of Nari and bullying of Taehyung.

“I miss Hobi hyung, he’d never be so mean to me.”

“He’d sell you for a bowl of rice.”

Before they can argue further, the laptop lights up with the incoming call. Jimin joins them and they sit at their usual seats, the computer already placed at the head of the table so the camera is close enough to give Hoseok a good view.

He barely shows up on a screen and he’s already screaming that he’s coming back in three weeks. They all cheer when he shows them the first packed box, explaining how he got so excited after booking the plane ticket, that he needed to start packing or he’d combust, especially because he didn’t want to inform them via message and decided to wait for their dinner.

The beta is going to move back to the pack house for an indefinite period of time. There was a plan, what feels like ages ago, that he would be living with Taehyung to help him during his final stages of pregnancy and first days of adjusting to a life with a newborn. But as new circumstances have occurred and Jeongguk has appeared in their lives, there is no need for any of his pack members to live with him.

Of course, Hoseok sulks that he’s not going to be helping in taking care of the pup but Taehyung knows his friend is not angry. He’s the most understanding person that graced this world and he wishes Taehyung nothing but happiness, which right now takes the form of two bunnies that have taken hold of his heart.

The rest of the dinner goes in a champagne mood, with the three of them celebrating with some stronger drinks and Taehyung with his non-alcoholic sparkling wine, which Jimin and Yoongi always keep in stock. It’s a good day for their pack and Taehyung is once again grateful, to have this trio in his life and to be able to call them his family.

He gets home in the evening. Before he hit the road he shot Jeongguk a message that he’s on his way but when he parks in his garage spot, he sees that the alpha answered with a promise he’s going to come over when he’s back as well. It’s good news, of course, but Taehyung still finds himself pouting because he was hoping that he’d be here already.

When he opens the door, he’s surprised to be greeted by Yeontan and Bam, jumping excitedly around him and he spots Jeongguk’s shoes on the shoe rack. He furrows his brows, checking his phone again if he misunderstood the alpha’s message, but it still says he’s not back yet.

“Baby?” he calls and goes to the living room, expecting to see his boyfriend in their nest.

But no one is there and it just confuses Taehyung even more. “Jeongguk?”

There's still no answer but he notices that the dogs do not take their usual spots on the couch. They just stay in the doorway, staring at him expectantly. When he takes a step towards them, they turn around and trot away. He follows them to the bedroom and stops in his tracks.

That’s where Jeongguk’s been hiding. He’s now standing in the middle of the room, next to a wooden cot with a huge red bow wrapped around its rungs. 

“Hi, pup,” Jeongguk grins at him.

“Jeonggukie, what is this?” He asks, puzzled, coming closer to see the cot. “We already have a crib in the nursery.”

“I know, but we talked some time ago that you are concerned if you’re going to need another one in the bedroom, so it’s more convenient for you during the nights,” the alpha explains. He stands behind Taehyung and wraps his arms around him. “So I built it for you as another courting gift.”

“You…” the omega freezes with his hand on the rail. He turns around to see Jeongguk’s face better. “You built it?”

“Mhm,” Jeongguk hums and nuzzles into his cheek. “Do you like it?”

“Jeonggukie… It is so beautiful, how even… Is there anything you can’t do?” he asks incredulously and the man behind him laughs softly.

“It was not even that complicated.”

“Are those bunnies carved in the rungs?”

“Yeah…”

“Alpha,” Taheyung whines and fully turns around, to face him properly. “Why are you being like this?”

“Like what?” Jeongguk laughs and caresses the omega’s sides. “I’m courting you, no? I need to show you I can provide for you and our pup. Prove that I am a capable alpha.”

“Baby, you are perfect, you don’t need to prove anything. We don’t live in the mediaeval era.” He hugs him as close as the baby bump allows him to and burrows his nose in his boyfriend’s scent gland. “I’m really starting to expect a hunted prey on my doorstep one of these days.”

“Don’t try to fool me, I know you love those romance novels set in the traditional settings with proper pack communities, courting, livestock farming and growing your own vegetables. Your bookcase is full of those.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Taehyung mumbles but smiles softly, hearing how attentive his alpha is, how well he knows him already because he wants to get to know him. Both through the endless conversations they have and through observation.

“Sure,” Jeongguk chuckles and pets his hair. “But just so you know. If you ever wanted to leave everything here and move to the forest like in those books, just say one word. I’d happily rear goats and grow turnips with you.”

“You are such a sap,” the omega laughs at that and finally leans back to look at him. “Thank you. It’s perfect, almost as perfect as you, and I bet Nari will not want to sleep in any other cot but in this one.”

And he means it. Every word. Jeongguk is going to be a perfect mate and a perfect father, just like he’s a perfect man and a perfect boyfriend. And Nari is going to adore him, just like Taehyung does, just like she does already, before even meeting him. She’s going to know this cot was made for her by her father and she will be fussy whenever they’ll try to put her in that excuse of a crib in her nursery. It’s going to be a pain but who could blame her, when this piece of furniture behind Taehyung radiates Jeongguk’s love and affection for her. 

For the two of them.

Chapter Text

“Yes, everything seems alright. The pup is growing well, head circumference 30,2 cm and abdominal circumference 27,3 cm, which is expected as the father is an alpha, so the measurements are always slightly bigger than if he’d be a beta,” doctor Song explains while whipping off the gel from the transducer. “We will schedule a c-section date anyway but from what you’ve been telling me and from what I can see, I can safely suggest that you consider natural childbirth. Of course if your predisposition doesn’t deteriorate.”

Taehyung looks at his doctor surprised. It’s not like he hasn’t worked on it since the beginning, to prepare his body for labour, but the green light is still a bit of a shock. Just last Sunday Felix finally welcomed his pup and he was not eligible for the natural childbirth and he’s been working out, stretching and getting massages just like Taehyung. It only proves that when being a male omega, it's never guaranteed that hard work pays off. It might help with a bit easier and faster recovery of course, but labour is a lottery.

“And while you’re deciding on this,” the doctor continues. “Consider who would be your birth partner.”

In a car on the way home, Jimin looks at him briefly from the driver’s seat. “What do you think about it, Taehyungie?”

“Honestly, I don’t know,” the omega admits, caressing his belly in a comforting manner. He doesn’t have to ask what Jimin means. “I mean, I’ve been doing yoga and all that jazz to prepare my body for it but I’ve never actually believed it’ll be possible, you know?”

His friend hums, “Yeah, I get what you mean.”

“I even have in my calendar for this week to think about who should accompany me in the delivery room but I never thought it would actually be needed.”

“Do you have an idea already?” Jimin asks curiously and Taehyung smiles. He knows that his friend would love to be there with him and greet Nari as soon as possible.

“I’ve had three obvious candidates from the beginning. You, Yoongi hyung and Hobi hyung,” the writer explains. “I am not sure if I’d feel comfortable with Yoongi hyung there, though…”

“I can imagine why. No matter how close you are or if he’s the pack alpha, he’s still not your alpha.”

“Exactly. I was getting skittish during my heats if he got too close and childbirth is a totally different level of vulnerability.”

“Facts,” Jimin agrees and parks in front of Taehyung’s building. They leave the car and go to the boot to grab multiple containers with food prepared by Yoongi. Including of course the biggest one with fresh kimchi. His hyung went a bit overboard with the amount but the napa cabbage week calls for it.

Besides, the pack alpha refuses to stop feeding Taehyung, claiming that as long as the omega is in his pack, especially pregnant, he’ll never stop caring about him. It’s sweet, Taehyung adores the affection he receives, so he doesn’t complain.

It’s also clear that Jeongguk doesn’t mind, even though he’d probably mind any other alpha. But the two bonded well and Jeongguk has a lot of respect for hyung. Taehyung’s heart still beats a bit faster whenever he remembers that his boyfriend expressed his desire to join their pack.

The omegas get everything to the kitchen and while putting things in their place, Jimin speaks again, “I guess Hobi hyung is disqualified for the same reasons.”

“Mhm, kinda. I’ve never been so adamant about him not taking care of me during heat, sometimes I let him feed me or change my sheets but I don’t know how I would act during labour. Plus, he’d probably faint the first three minutes into action.”

They share a laugh, moving to the living room. “Not gonna argue with that. How do you think you’re going to stand Doctor Song? He’s a beta.”

“Well, he’s a doctor. I don’t have much choice. But there is going to be another omega doctor in case I go feral or something.”

“Scary Taehyungie,” Jimin giggles and pinches his cheeks. “But I get it. So, are you telling me that I was this close to experience it with you but I got ousted by some overgrown muscle bunny? The disrespect.”

“I don’t know about Jeonggukie,” Taehyung murmurs, suddenly very anxious.

The alpha has been nothing but an amazing, supportive partner since they started their courtship (and honestly, even before that) and Taehyung did invite him to his main nest, which never happened before, and Jeongguk is the father of Nari but still… He is not sure if it’s a good idea to have him there. What if he decides on the alpha, his omega gets used to the thought, attached, and Jeongguk leaves them before the baby comes? 

How is he going to heal his wounded wolf and heart and let someone else be with him to help him through this big challenge. Even if that someone would be Jimin.

The writer explains the same to his friend, not looking into his eyes, ashamed for the thoughts he has. He has no reasons to not trust Jeongguk, the alpha never made him doubt him, not even once.

“Fears are not always rational, Taetae,” Jimin explains softly, cradling him into his arms. “It’s only natural that you are scared. You just started a relationship, you are in such a delicate state and experienced a few failed relationships. It’s good that you are wary but at the same time the fear can’t blind you.” The omega keeps stroking Taehyung’s hair trying to soothe him. “You don’t have to decide now, no? You still have what, three-four weeks? You can see if you feel more confident about your relationship then. And if you are still scared, I will be there with you.”

“I feel like shit doubting him,” the omega whispers.

“You don’t doubt him, you are protecting yourself and your pup. No matter what, you don’t know him for years like you know me or hyungs. He’s still not an established constant in your life. You are not mated or married. Your hormones are buzzing and it’s only natural to be afraid of being hurt.”

Before Taehyung can answer in any way, the entrance door opens and he can immediately smell the patchouli scent coming from there. It calms him down, just like Jimin’s words and he feels a little bit better. A moment later Jeongguk enters the living room with a huge bunny smile and an impressive bouquet of sunflowers.

“Hello, pup, hi Jimin-ah,” his smile drops a little seeing the position they’re in; Jimin hugging Taehyung as if trying to shield him from the world. “What happened?” he puts the flowers down on the coffee table and comes closer in a long strides, kneeling in front of the couch and taking Taehyung’s hands in his. “What’s wrong, baby? Are you okay? Is it something with bunny?”

The omega quickly shakes his head, seeing the crazed eyes of the alpha, worry written all over his handsome face when he stares at his belly. “No, no, Gukkie, we are perfectly fine, I just got some news that overwhelmed me a little.”

“Oh,” Jeongguk breathes out and nuzzles the side of the baby bump, scenting it. “You scared me for a second there.”

“That’s my cue to leave,” Jimin smiles and gets up. He brings the vase with water to the room first and after putting the bouquet inside, he walks over to kiss Taehyung’s hair. “Bye and don’t stress, babe. And remember, you can always just not go with it at all. It’s just an option. See you, Jeonggukie.”

The alpha only waves him goodbye, distracted by scenting Taehyung. While Jimin was taking care of the flowers, he climbed up into the nest and took the omega’s place as Taehyung's protector.

And with all Taehyung’s love for his best friend, being in his boyfriend’s arms and being scented by him is what he needs the most right now.

They stay like this, snuggled and nuzzling at each other, making sure they smell of nothing but the two of them. Taehyung’s wolf growls in pleasure. He more and more hates being away from the alpha.

“Will you tell me what happened, sweetheart?” Jeongguk finally whispers, around a half an hour later, his hands caressing the baby bump and Taehyung being already soothed.

“You know I had another visit today, right?”

“Of course, I’m sorry I couldn’t go with you,” the alpha apologises and kisses his temple. “I’m glad Jimin is always ready to be on post. At this point he’s more like a second father than I am.”

“No, Jeonggukie, don’t say that,” Taehyung whines at the joke. “I can’t even imagine being pregnant with Jimin. That would be like an incest.”

“Okay, sorry, sorry, continue.”

“Right… So at the end, doctor Song told me that we discussed previously that I’m going to have a c-section but that he recommends considering… natural childbirth.”

“Oh,” Jeongguk breathes out, clearly confused. “Is that bad? Is this something you don’t want? I am sure they can’t make you. You are a male omega, I am sure they are obliged to give you the opportunity for the c-section anyway. I can call the hospital right now-”

“Jeonggukie, Jeonggukie, no, that’s not it,” the writer stops him before his boyfriend can reach the phone. His heart grows again, at the clear showcase of affection and care. He doesn’t even try to convince Taehyung to go with it. He hears his omega got distressed about a possibility of natural childbirth - he immediately gets in protective mode, ready to do anything to stop it if that’s what Taehyung wishes. A perfect man. “He suggested considering it because he believes that my body is ready for it. It was not possible by default but thanks to all the exercises I am physically able to do it.”

“Oh, okay,” the alpha sighs in relief and hugs his boyfriend closer to himself. “Then why are you so anxious, pup?”

“... I don’t know?”

“Okay… You don’t know if you want to do it or is there something else?”

“It’s just… I never really thought about this opportunity. It was such an unreachable dream… And now I have to decide if I’m going to do it and if yes, then who is going to be my birth partner.”

“Ahh… So there it is,” Jeongguk kisses Taehyung’s forehead, and the omega can feel his smile. “You are not sure if you want me there with you and you feel bad about it?”

“It’s not that I don’t know if I want you there!-”

“You are scared if I am still here by the time bunny comes.”

And Taehyung can’t say anything to defend himself. Because yes, this is exactly that. And he feels terrible, he’s ashamed but that’s what he feels. He nuzzles his face in the alpha’s chest and sniffs.

“Oh, pup,” Jeongguk chuckles and starts stroking his hair. “As much as I'd love to be there to greet our daughter together with you, your comfort is the most important thing at that time. If you will feel safer with Jimin or even Yoongi hyung, there’s nothing to think about. I will be right behind the door waiting for my two babies anyway.”

“But I will feel the safest with you,” he whispers and it’s true. He knows it, and his omega knows it. They want Jeongguk with them, while delivering their pup, they want Jeongguk to scent her right away, so she belongs to him just as much as she belongs to Taehyung. Feeling safe is not an issue…

“I’m happy to hear that, baby. As your alpha, I want to be your safe place. But I understand that we are not together for a long time and you might be… concerned about some things. Plus, I ended a relationship not long ago and you basically know nothing about it, so I assume you might be more wary about my potential infidelity.”

That’s… totally not what Taehyung’s been stressing about. But isn’t it really? Taehyung has no idea about Jeongguk’s relationship with Wonyoung nor about their break up. Is this really the reason he’s so unsure right now?

“I don’t think you’ve been unfaithful or will be in the future. I don’t even really think you won’t be there when the time comes. Honestly, I don’t believe you’ll ever leave,” the arms around Taehyung tighten, as if saying ‘You’re right, I’m not going anywhere, I’ll always be here for you and our daughter’ , “But I’m just… irrationally scared.”

“Rational or irrational, the fact is that you are anxious and that’s the last thing I want you to be. I will do everything for you to feel safe. No matter if it’s you feeling safe with me being in the delivery room with you or you feeling safe with choosing your pack member.”

“I don’t want to hear about it now but… maybe you’re right? Maybe I need to hear your story with Wonyoung, so something in my brain clicks and stops with this nonsense.”

“Pup, your fear is not nonsense. Please, stop discrediting yourself and your feelings,” Jeongguk speaks in a firm tone but tightens his hold around Taehyung, to assure him he’s not angry. “Maybe I should’ve told you about it earlier but honestly it’s just not important to me anymore. It’s in the past and that relationship wasn’t some big love story or anything. If it makes you feel any better, my alpha never accepted her as our omega. Hell, I’m pretty sure I’ve never called her ‘my omega’ either.”

“Really?” Taehyung peeps out, peeking up at Jeongguk.

“Really,” his boyfriend smiles and leaves another kiss, this time on his nose. “I understand you don’t want to talk about it right now, I don’t want that either, it’s not the moment for this, but I hope it gives you a bit of peace of mind for now.”

“It does, actually. Thank you, Alpha.” The omega smiles to himself and leans his head on Jeongguk’s chest.

“I’m glad. So, about labour?”

“I find it unfair that we, male omegas, lost this natural ability along the way but I’m glad there’s a big chance I will be able to experience that,” he admits with a pout. “Even if it still sounds a bit surreal.”

“Do you want to?”

“I think so? I am scared shitless, of course I am, the pain and a vision of everything that could go wrong are really not inviting, I’m not gonna lie,” Taehyung bites his bottom lip and snuggles closer to his boyfriend. He continues in a whisper, “But I think I’d like to do it, you know? Doctor Song made it clear that it’s my only chance. I’m not getting younger and even if I continue the same routine as with this pregnancy, my body might not be ready the next time. Plus, again, I’m a male omega, if I go through a c-section I’m basically unqualified for natural childbirth in the future by default. The evolution fucked us and female alphas,” he huffs. 

Jeongguk hugs him tighter and starts scenting him. “It’s your decision, baby. I will support you no matter what. And I will be there. Either with you in the room or right behind the door. I promise you Tae, I’d have to be dead to not be.”

“Oh Luna, you are so dramatic.”

“I’m not,” the alpha argues, with a serious face. “Tae, you and Nari are my entire life now, my family and top priority. I’ve never thought I could be this happy and I’m not gonna let it slip out of my hands.”

“I’ve never been this happy either,” Taehyung whispers and crawls on Jeongguk’s lap, to cradle his boyfriend’s face in his hands. “And you are the most important for me and our baby girl too, we want and need you, and we always will.”

“Good,” Jeongguk smiles and brings Taehyung's face closer, so he can finally kiss him properly. “My two pups. As long as I have you next to me and can take care of you, I won’t ask for anything else.”

“Gukkie,” the omega whimpers quietly, shuffling a bit in place. “Can you take me to our nest?”

“Funny, I was thinking the same thing,” his boyfriend smiles and bites his lip bottom lip playfully, before getting up and carrying him to the bedroom, where the alpha continues to soothe him in every way possible.

They don’t get to talk about Jeongguk’s previous relationship for a few days. Taehyung feels a bit antsy to hear about it so he doesn’t bring the topic up and it’s clear that his boyfriend gives him space to do it on his own terms. They go on with their week as always, Taehyung joining his yoga classes, weekly swimming sessions, texting on their omega chat (Felix updates them with stories of first days of Haru, his cute girl) and nesting more and more. Jeongguk keeps bringing him flowers and preparing smoothies, he gives him daily massages, they walk their dogs and spend evenings glued together on the couch in one of the apartments.

It’s already Saturday, when Taehyung finally decides he’s ready and approaches the alpha, who is currently training Bam. The dog keeps retrieving different objects that Jeongguk hid around the apartment and Yeontan observes them with mild interest from his spot on the armchair.

Taehyung sits down and he doesn’t have to wait long for the training to be finished and soon enough he’s being pulled in a hug and scented diligently.

“What are we feeling like today?” he murmurs in Taehyung’s ear, caressing the underside of his belly, before scenting it as well later on. The alpha calls it ‘a family time’ and it has also seamlessly integrated into their daily routine. “A movie? Game? Some date out? I could finally take you somewhere fancy, spoil you a little.”

“You keep spoiling me every day, my alpha,” he sighs, when the scenting continues around his scent gland and behind his ear. “But I think I’m ready to hear your story.”

Jeongguk freezes for a second but then resumes his task. “After our family time. There’s no space here for her.”

This small comment immediately eases Taehyung and his omega. Their alpha never fails to calm their nerves and suddenly the whole conversation doesn’t look as scary as it did a few minutes ago. Because why should it be scary anyway? Jeongguk isn’t with Wonyoung anymore, he’s with Taehyung and they are doing great and their courtship is leading towards mating, Taehyung’s sure of that.

So he doesn’t rush his alpha, he basks in the attention he receives and happily reciprocates with double force. And Taehyung can’t stress how happy he is that Jeongguk is just as cuddly and touchy like him. They could stay like this for hours and both of them would be content with the time spent.

It’s only when Taehyung is basically purring in bliss, his omega pliant with his belly up, that he finally asks Jeongguk to speak. He wants to get it over with already.

“There’s not that much to tell, honestly, baby. We met at the company Halloween party-”

“You work with her?” Taehyung pushes himself back, shocked.

“No, no, no, not anymore. She was doing some internship after her studies and it finished a few months ago already,” the alpha assures, pulling Taehyung back to his chest. “She was working in a different department and on a different floor, that’s why we only met at the party. We exchanged numbers at the end of the night and some time later went on a date. One date led to another and we got together.” He stops to check Taehyung’s reaction but not seeing or smelling any distress he continues, “There’s really not much to say. It was okay at the beginning, I guess. She was sweet and very passionate about her job. I liked it. She changed jobs in the new year and that’s when things started to get complicated. Quite early, I know,” he laughs, seeing Taehyung’s weird look. “I met her friends at a New Year’s Eve party and she met mine sometime in January. Mingyu hated her from the first sight, the feeling was mutual, the rest of guys didn’t get the vibe either but it was not bad. Her friends were… young, I couldn’t talk with them because I couldn’t understand half of the things they were saying. And I am not much older!”

Taehyung laughs at that sincerely. He gets it, he had the same problem when he met Yeonjun and Soobin. The couple is just a few years younger but the difference was easily felt. But the two were also very mature for their age, so they were able to get on well together and now they are kinda friends, especially with Yeonjun, with whom he keeps in touch through their omega chat.

Jeongguk waits for Taehyung to stop laughing, before he continues, “So that was the first bump. Then she finished her internship and, as I mentioned, found a job in a big corporation. She’s always wanted to make a career, so she was working a lot and she was stressed all the time. At the same time she hated when I had to work late and couldn’t come over in the evenings. I can understand that but still, sometimes I just wanted to hit the gym, blow off some steam and go to sleep, but I had to go to hers or I’d have a fight the next day. It wasn’t always like this, she wasn’t bad or anything, I think we simply were very different people. Out of all of our interests I think the only ones that we had in common were singing and watching dramas. Her biggest passion after work was horse riding and I grew to like it but not as a regular hobby. I love all of my sports and she didn’t like those. We liked different movies, different series, different books.” Suddenly Jeongguk snorts and throws Taehyung a playful look. “Actually, we liked exactly one same author and I remember once we spent the entire evening talking about his books.”

“No way,” Taehyung giggles, finding it genuinely funny. He knows that Jeongguk is a fan of his books but this is new.

“Yes way.”

“Does she know?”

“That it’s you? Yeah, she does. I told her right after I found out, totally fanboying and she joined me of course. She even joked something about me being an alpha father of your pup. And then she had a meltdown because she attacked you without a reason.”

“Wow.”

“I told you, she’s not bad. She just wasn’t my person.” Jeongguk smiles and kisses the top of Taehyung’s head. “Anyway, as you can probably imagine, we kept having conflicts about weekend plans, who to go out with, what to do, yada yada. We were spending less and less time together, both because of this and because of work and it was obvious for me that we’re going to break up sooner than later.”

“Did… did I bring you a lot of problems?” the omega asks unsure, playing with the hem of Jeongguk’s t-shirt.

“The first night, yes. But that’s understandable. When she finally agreed to listen to me and explain that I didn’t cheat, we had a huge fight about donation. She wanted me to withdraw the permission to use my sperm immediately, which I didn’t agree to, which of course made her furious in return.”

“Why didn’t you agree?”

“Honestly, I don’t know. Maybe a bit out of spite, because it’s my decision after all. We weren’t even together for that long, or serious enough for her to make such demands. And as I told you the other day, she was never my omega. Watching my parents really raised my expectations for my future mate and while she was calling me her alpha, me and him never really accepted her as our omega. We also didn’t feel like her alpha. I was just her boyfriend. She couldn’t make such a decision on my behalf.”

“I think I understand both of you,” Taehyung admits. “It’s your decision to make but if she treated you as her alpha, her possessive side came out in such a situation.”

“I understood her too, but it didn’t change my decision. Anyway, at some point she made peace with the thought of you and bunny. She was not very happy we kept running into each other or that we lived in the same building, but I have to give her that, except for the beginning, she was very mature about everything. But it didn’t change the fact that we were not a good match and I noticed that I’m just tired of this relationship. I stopped being excited to see her, she didn’t make me happy and I could see that I wasn’t making her happy either. So when we met one evening, I shared my thoughts and Wonyoung agreed with me that this wasn’t working anymore. So we broke up.”

“But she wanted to get back together.”

“Yeah, I told you, she got attached much more than I did. She saw me as her alpha, but she never was my omega. I wasn’t heartbroken, I got drunk that night in the pub because break ups suck in general. Of course, I was a bit sad because we had some good moments together and I genuinely liked her but that’s it. I’ve never regretted my decision and when she wanted to mend our relationship, I refused right away. That’s when it got a bit nasty. She got mean that evening, she even talked about you and bunny, called me names and got dramatic. But I don’t blame her, I wasn’t heartbroken but I think she was a bit. Even if deep inside she knew we were not meant for each other, she still had feelings for me. Aaaand that’s it. That’s the story.”

“Wow. I didn’t expect something like this.” Taehyung smiles.

“What did you expect then?”

“I don’t know, I guess in my head you two were in a very long, happy relationship before we met.”

“Nope. Not long nor happy. Just the relationship part is correct.”

“Dork,” the omega giggles and snuggles closer to his boyfriend. “Thank you for telling me all this.”

“Do you feel better? I hope it didn’t make you more insecure…”

“No, no, Gukkie, I do feel better. I think at some level I always saw myself as some villain that barged in a perfect relationship and destroyed it. I’m relieved that was not the case.”

“Not at all, pup,” Jeongguk caresses his side delicately. “I admit, I started to grow fond of you when I was still with her, I think you just have this effect on people, but I assure you, that you were not the reason for our break up. We would separate our ways anyway, if I met you or not. So don’t stress yourself.”

They stay cuddled on the couch not talking anymore for a bit longer, before Jeongguk has to take the dogs for a walk and Taehyung needs to start preparing dinner. When the writer stays alone, he replays the whole conversation in his head and he’s really happy they talked. Even if his appearance in their lives did speed up their break up in some way, it wasn’t the main reason. They had their differences way before they met him, so it’s not on him.

On the other hand, his more primal side is just relieved that he doesn’t have to worry about the potential rival in Jeongguk’s ex. Now having the full picture, he clearly finds it unnecessary. 

Because Wonyoung is Jeongguk’s past, and Taehyung and Nari are his present and future. And at the end of the day this is the only thing that matters.

Chapter Text

Taehyung had no idea that it could be possible, but after their conversation about Jeongguk’s past relationship, things between them got even better. Jeongguk doesn’t work overtime anymore, so they spend most of the evenings together and every night they sleep by each other’s side. It almost feels like they were living together and Taehyung is both scared and thrilled by the idea.

It’s almost like they have a two floor house, with how seamlessly they navigate between both apartments, no longer announcing their visits and even Yeontan and Bam got very domestic together, Yeontan calming down a bit a big pupper and Bam bringing the fun side from the pomeranian more often.

That’s why after his swimming session Taehyung only picks up Tannie and walks upstairs, to start preparing for the evening.

Jeongguk suggested having a night with his alpha gang, so they can get to know each other better as they only met once that one time in 134340 and second time being just Mingyu and Yugyeom when they helped Jeongguk babyproof Taehyung’s apartment. Of course, the omega was on board with the idea as he wanted to get to know his boyfriend’s best friends. And maybe a little bit to get them to like him more than the alpha’s ex-girlfriend.

So after entering the code, he walks in, immediately greeted by Bam. He takes two pups for a quick potty break and when they are back, he goes to the kitchen. Jeongguk did all the shopping after work and left it home before leaving for the gym, so Taehyung declared himself in charge of food. To his indignation, Jeongguk wasn’t totally on board with that at first but after seeing the omega’s face, he quickly backpedalled with a metaphorical tail between his legs.

“We’re gonna show your daddy, yeah, bunny?” Taehyung caresses his bump and smiles at the little kick. “Exactly. He’s gonna get a permanent frown on his stupid face from how tasty everything’s gonna be.”

The next one and half hour he busies himself with preparing an impressive array of snacks and marinating the chicken legs so they can put them in the oven later in the evening.

He’s in the middle of cutting the pineapples, when the front door opens and Bam leaves his side for the first time, to welcome a newcomer.

“Hi, Bam-ah, did you miss me?”

Taehyung smiles softly at the sound of the alpha’s voice, which always gets a bit higher when he greets the dog and the grin only grows when Jeongguk keeps speaking in the same manner to Yeontan. He must ruffle his fur a bit too energetically, as the dog starts barking at some point, with Bam quickly joining him and Jeongguk laughs happily at their reactions.

“And where are my third and fourth pups?” The alpha whispers into Taehyung’s ear a few seconds later, before kneeling on the tiles and cupping his belly in both hands. “Hello there, my love.”

“Oh? So I’m the fourth?” Taehyung asks, amused and scratches Bam behind his ears, because the doberman of course returned to his side already. He watches his boyfriend scenting the tummy as if he hasn’t done it for days, while it’s been only a few hours since morning. “I can understand that I come after this little brat but after two dogs too?”

“You and Nari are both my number one,” Jeongguk looks up at him and squeezes his butt teasingly. “I left the best for the end.”

“You’re lucky that you’re cute,” the omega grumbles but can’t help a big beam growing on his face when he’s finally face to face with his boyfriend. “Hi.”

“Hi, pup,” he smiles softly and leans in to finally kiss him hello. “How was your day?”

“Good. We had a lazy morning with Tannie and Bamie, I had a video call with my birth class group to see Haru and Sujin and then I went swimming.”

“Do you need a massage now or before sleep?”

Now, when he has his masseur within arm reach, he gets his daily instead of weekly share of massages and Taehyung lives for it. His alpha is very diligent in making sure to ease his sore muscles and the writer hasn’t regretted his decision of dumping San even once. Especially because it turns out that every Tuesday Jeongguk discusses with his former masseur how he should adjust his massages to the progress of the pregnancy.

“Before sleep is fine,” Taehyung assures him and kisses him again, just because he feels like it. “Hi.”

“Hi,” Jeongguk laughs and finally looks at the counter. “Wow, you didn’t hold back, huh? Are you trying to impress someone?”

“I just want to be a good host,” he answers innocently but the look in the alpha’s eyes tells him that he didn’t buy it even for a second.

“Do you need any help or can I take a quick shower? I showered at the gym but it’s so freaking hot outside, I’m all sweaty again.”

“Mmmm, sexy.”

“You are so nasty sometimes,” Jeongguk makes a face but still places one more kiss on Taehyung’s temple, quickly running away, when the omega tries to lick the sweat off of his neck. “Nasty!”

The writer only laughs loudly and goes back to his pineapple.

It's total chaos from the first doorbell ring. Yeontan barks at all of the loud visitors and Bam stands in a protective position in front of Taehyung, not leaving his side, suspicious since all the family members are already home. He only leaves his post when Eunwoo walks in the living room. Clearly the doberman is familiar with him and doesn’t consider him a threat.

“Hello, Taehyung-ssi,” the alpha smiles softly. “You’re really glowing.”

“Oh, thank you,” Taehyung blushes. “And what’s with all the honorifics? I think we can drop them if you’re comfortable with it.”

“Of course, it’s more than-”

“Taehyungie!” Mingyu interrupts him, rushing to the omega’s side. “As gorgeous as always, did you get bored with that loser, finally?”

“Sorry, to disappoint you but I don’t think it’s gonna happen any time soon.” Taehyung shakes his head with an amused smile.

“More like any time ever!” Jeongguk yells from the entrance hall and the three snort.

“So possessive,” Mingyu tuts. “Can’t blame him, tho.” He winks and walks to the kitchen to drop the drinks the alphas brought with them.

Chan and Bambam, the 134340 bartender, come in next, quickly followed by Yugyeom and Jaehyun. They shower Taehyung with compliments and even more when they find out how much food the omega prepared for them.

Taehyung has so much fun the whole evening, his cheeks start to hurt at some point from smiling and laughing constantly. He absolutely loves the dynamics between seven friends and it warms his heart to see Jeongguk this happy.

The six alphas don’t spare his friend and recall all the embarrassing stories of him, and they have a ton of those after decades of friendship.

“That’s nothing,” Jaehyun puts away his beer. “Do you remember Osaka?”

“No, not Osaka, please,” Jeongguk groans and drops his head on Taehyung’s shoulder. They are sitting snuggled on the couch, Taehyung leaning his back against Jeongguk’s chest. “Don’t listen to them, baby, all they do is lie.”

“The recordings beg to differ,” Bambam cackles, pocketing his phone after showing them the video of teenage Jeongguk stuffing his mouth with a mini fan.

“What happened in Osaka?” Taehyung asks, eager to hear more.

“He cried.”

“He cried?” The omega exclaims, trying to look at his boyfriend but he still hides his face in Taehyung’s neck. “Why did you cry, baby?”

“Well, when he was younger and started to gain all those muscles he kept checking all the time if-”

“I beg you, stop.”

“-if he still has abs! So once when he got drunk on our trip to Osaka and he didn’t wear contacts or glasses because we were already going to sleep, he looked at his stomach and started to cry that his abs were gone!”

“No way!” Taehyung bursts out laughing. “Oh my Luna, that’s gold.”

“I was drunk, okay?! My vision was blurry and I was barely conscious at that point,” Jeongguk whines, burrowing his nose even further into Taehyung’s skin.

“I didn’t know you love your muscles that much,” the omega teases, so he digs his fingers between Taehyung’s ribs, threatening to attack with tickles. “Okay, okay, I’ll stop now, you big baby.”

“Ok, let me think about something else,” this time Chris starts scrolling his phone, giddy to put Jeongguk through a longer walk of shame but Taehyung laughs and shakes his head.

“Let’s stop it now. I loved all of those stories, you are so precious, Gukkie,” he squeezes the alpha’s face between his palms, making him pout cutely. “But I think it’s time for me to put food in the oven and we can start our championship.”

That suggestion makes all seven men perk up like excited pups. Taehyung chuckles to himself, preparing food with Bam at his side and listening to their bickering while they set up the game. He was a bit nervous before this evening how the guys are going to react that the only game they’re going to play is Mario Kart, since Taehyung is all fingers and thumbs when it comes to playing on a console. Mario Kart is the only game he somehow manages to actually play and not smash buttons randomly hoping for the best outcome. But of course he had nothing to worry about. All six guests got hyper enthusiastic right away and Jeongguk smiled at Taehyung knowingly, as if he was saying “I told you so”.  

When he comes back from the kitchen with a handful of beers for the guys, the first four are already in the middle of the third race, screaming and challenging each other.

“Sorry, pup, I wanted you to be in the first round but these pigs couldn’t wait,” Jeongguk pouts and makes grabby hands at him. Or the non-alcoholic beer in Taehyung’s hands. No matter what he wanted, he got both anyway and right away.

“Don’t worry, sweetheart, I’m good with watching for now,” the writer sits down next to Jeongguk and immediately notices that his boyfriend brought his pregnancy pillow from the bedroom and the sweet gesture melts Taehyung’s heart a bit.

He ends up not playing for a couple of rounds because he has so much fun watching the alphas getting frustrated, cursing and immediately being scolded by Jeongguk because “Language!” and he doesn’t even notice how the time flies because suddenly the timer rings indicating that the chicken is ready.

Jeongguk brings food and plates to the living room and they all eat and drink around the small coffee table and Taehyung loves everything about it. He feels accepted, joking with his boyfriend’s friends, sharing food with his alpha, being coddled by the whole seven, all the best pieces of meat left for him. The group starts to fuss around him even more after bunny decides to announce her presence with kicking and punching. Taehyung lets his alpha’s friends touch his belly through the shirt and they all immediately fight over who can be the first one to do it and who is going to be the most beloved uncle.

After a cute first introduction to his pup and when all the chicken is gone, they get back to playing games and this time Taehyung gets his turn and the six guests get even more livid than before.

“What the fuck?!” Jaehyun throws his controller on the carpet after coming in 8th place.

“Language,” Jeongguk throws his slipper at the man who only turns around to shoot daggers with his eyes at Taehyung.

“Why the hell are you so good?!”

That makes the omega laugh wholeheartedly, especially because Bambam and Eunwoo also mumble under their nose how the whole game was not fair.

“I’m not even that good,” he tsks. “It’s just you who are bad at it.”

The other four alphas cheer at his words and Jeongguk kisses his cheek, though it’s more like pressing his face against him, because he smiles so wide it’s hard to call the gesture a kiss.

“JK, he’s mean to me.”

“My pup has never done anything wrong in his life. You deserve everything.”

“This is bullying,” Jaehyun grumbles and crosses his arms like a petulant child, so Taehyung reaches out to ruffle his hair.

“I was joking. You are all good but I had to sharpen my skills if I wanted to stand any chance against Jeon.”

“Fair,” Eunwoo finally admits, though reluctantly. “Another one? But Taehyungie and JK sit this one out. I want to finally have a chance.”

The rest of the evening goes like this. They play, Jeongguk finds more snacks in his cabinets (including Taehyung’s favourite jellies), they drink beers (two future parents stick to alcohol free of course) and talk and joke in between.

The omega is worn out when the six alphas finally leave but it’s a good kind of exhaustion. He thinks he was approved by his boyfriend’s friends, which was his goal, so what more could he ask for from the evening? To add to that, Taehyung himself really got to like the six puppy-like men.

But the most important thing is that Jeongguk looked immensely happy all the time. His eyes crinkling and shining, huge bunny smile ever present on his face and melodious laughter audible throughout the whole night are enough to make Taehyung content. He would give the whole world to his alpha so seeing him like this brings him inner peace.

“So, what’s the verdict?” Jeongguk asks quietly, wrapping his arms around Taehyung when he joins him in the bathroom after walking the dogs.

The omega is in the middle of his skincare routine already after shower, so he opens one eye to catch Jeongguk’s gaze in the mirror. “They are great, we can keep them.”

The alpha snorts and bites his ear playfully. “I’m so happy. They love you, too. Even a bit too much I think. They keep spamming our group chat, gushing over you and calling dibs who is next in line when I’m out of the picture.”

That makes Taehyung laugh loudly and he takes off his headband, so he can turn around and face Jeongguk. “Well, too bad for them because you’re never going to be out of the picture.”

“My words exactly.” He smiles and leans in for a chaste kiss. “I’m gonna take a quick shower and join you in bed, yeah?”

When Taehyung lies down, he’s phone chimes and he sees it’s the incoming message on the omega group chat. It turns out that it’s Vicky, sharing a photo of two cute tiny pups, apparently born just the night before. The whole gang gushes over twins for a few minutes, rejoicing in the happiness of their friends. When the writer puts the phone away, he can’t believe how fast the time flies. Slowly, each of them welcomes their pups in the world and soon the time will come for him too.

The next fifteen minutes Taehyung spends caressing his belly and talking to Nari softly. They noticed that it helps to calm down the pup and they try to engage in one-sided conversations with her before sleep, so she doesn’t bother Taehyung with an episode of hyperactivity. And today, with the longing he feels a bit more than usually, he’s extra engaged in bonding with his daughter.

“Time’s up, my turn,” Jeongguk interrupts Taehyung’s monologue about the plans of Hobi hyung’s welcome party and bunny’s new twin friends.

“I wasn’t finished yet-”

“Doesn’t matter. You two can talk tomorrow when I’m at work. Now I want to have a word with my sweet princess.”

And of course Taehyung’s traitorous daughter punches his belly twice as if she was agreeing with her alpha father. She’s not even born and these two gang up on him already. Taehyung rolls his eyes so hard, his head hurts a little and with a fake-exasperated sigh he lets go of his belly to make space for Jeongguk.

Who of course happily crawls between his legs and immediately cups the underside with both hands. “Hello, my love,” he whispers quietly, scenting his belly button and making Taehyung giggle from the ticklish feeling. “I can feel you’re very lively today but soon you will have to go to sleep so your appa can sleep peacefully, too,” Jeongguk leans back quickly when there’s a kick landing on his nose. “What’s with that attitude, young lady? It’s already midnight, way past your bedtime so there will be no negotiations in this matter.”

Taehyung listens and watches the alpha absolutely endeared, while he talks softly to their daughter, caressing her and scenting some more. The alpha tells her about a new game he’s going to work on and about all the dogs that Bam scared with his overfriendliness during their evening walk. It’s like Jeongguk wanted to share everything with bunny and it’s one of the sweetest things Taehyung gets to witness every night.

“And today was a very special day. There were so many new hands petting you, as you probably remember. And those were your uncles. They were very excited to meet you and now they can’t wait to meet you in person, too. You are so loved already, my sweet girl, everyone is waiting for you, so grow healthily and come to us quickly.” Jeongguk shoots Taehyung a quick smile, before he continues. “Just never listen to their stories about your daddy, they are all lies.”

Taehyung laughs at these words and covers his face with one hand. “I don’t think that’s true, Gukkie.”

“Everything that makes me look uncool should be considered filthy lies.”

“My favourite story is still the one with sweet potatoes,” Taehyung admits amicably and Jeongguk brightens up.

“That one was actually funny, they looked like they were glued to the plate - no matter how much I was shaking that plate they were not falling off!” The alpha cackles happily. “Now I’m a better cook, so don’t worry, Nari. I’ll cook you only delicious baby paps and tasty meals for your appa.” He winks at the omega.

“Your uncles also met your appa properly for the first time, as my boyfriend. Pretty big deal, right? And it’s probably no surprise to you that they fell in love, too. I know, right?” The alpha laughs at the faint punch against his palm. “Of course they do, your appa is so loveable there must be something wrong with anyone who wouldn’t fall for him.”

The last statement makes the omega’s heart beat faster. It’s not exactly a confession but it’s close enough to bring butterflies to life in Taehyung’s stomach. Overwhelmed with his own wave of affection towards the amazing man in front of him, he reaches out and caresses his black locks, still slightly damp after the shower. It’s getting harder and harder for Taehyung to not declare his undying devotion for the alpha but he wants to wait a bit longer. He doesn’t know when will be the right moment but he believes that when it comes, he will know. He will feel it because the nudge in his brain will be impossible to ignore anymore.

“Okay, I can feel you are already falling asleep, sweetie, so we will talk tomorrow again. Goodnight, I love you.” Jeongguk kisses the belly a few times and finally straightens up. 

He pulls down Taehyung's t-shirt so it covers the bump properly and moves around the nest to spoon Taehyung as usual. The writer bares his neck, demanding his share of scenting and kissing and Jeongguk of course happily obliges.

Ten minutes later the alpha’s lips are attached to Taehyung’s scent gland and they both breathe heavily.

“Baby…” Jeongguk moves his hand from the side of his belly down to his hip and slowly inches it between Taehyung’s thighs but he’s stopped with delicate fingers wrapping around his wrist.

“It’s so late, Gukkie and you’re waking up early tomorrow.”

“I’ll add an extra shot of espresso to my morning coffee,” he dismisses, sucking another mark on Taehyung’s shoulder, right next to the first one.

“Honey, please. I’m exhausted, sorry.”

The sneaky hand retreats and cups the bump instead. “No need to apologise, pup. Never apologise for something like this and always tell me if you don’t feel like sex. Never agree if you don’t want to, just because you think I expect it.”

“I know, Gukkie, don’t worry.”

Taehyung mumbles and bites his bottom lip, when Jeongguk nuzzles his nape and whispers a soft “goodnight”, blissfully unaware of the torment happening in the omega’s head. Because it seems that nothing can be absolutely perfect and after averting one crisis - every time another one appears.

Taehyung despises shaving.

He hates it with all his heart and does it only when necessary even though he prefers to be shaved. Just the whole act annoys him, so he avoids it like a plague. And it’s even a bigger pain in the ass now when he’s pregnant, with the whole pineapple size bunny in the way.

It is quite easy when you are single. Because even though Taehyung prefers to be shaved - he doesn’t care enough to do it until he absolutely has to. He could get laser hair removal, he has enough money but again - the omega doesn’t care enough.

He’s been single for so long it really became normal to him that he doesn’t shave for days - especially in the winter. Hair is a natural thing and Taehyung will never understand people who think their opinion is important enough to comment on someone else’s choice on that matter.

So when the omega read that he should stop shaving around two months in advance before his due date he easily accepted it. Yeah, sure, it would be a bit annoying, considering it will be a peak of the summer and during that time he usually pays more attention to his body hair but once again, he didn’t care.

Except that now he does. He does because he is not single anymore but in one hell of a serious relationship. And no matter how much Taehyung doesn’t care, when in a relationship - he just ignores his disdain for the chore and does it regularly. It makes him feel better, like he took care of himself, made an effort for his partner. Alphas (and not only alphas at this point, to be honest) developed some unhealthy obsession over smooth skin and they prefer when their omegas (or partners in general) are hairless from neck down.

Therefore it was natural for Taehyung that when he started his courtship with Jeongguk, shaving returned to his routine. He’s been doing it regularly, having the alpha living so close that they meet every day he can’t allow himself to slack. And he even got used to it. He still doesn’t enjoy it, he never will, but he got used to it.

When the omega got the reminder on his phone that he set a few months back that he needs to stop shaving his brain didn’t even register what that implies. It wasn’t complicated  - there are two months left of his pregnancy, he might need a c-section any moment now, so he stops to minimise the risk of infection. It’s as simple as that. He’s a male omega, he needs to be extra careful. After seeing the notification, Taehyung just nodded in acknowledgement and immediately put all the shaving creams and razors in the bathroom cabinet because there’s no need to keep them outside if he’s not going to use them anyway. They would only catch dust.

But it had to click at some point and the moment came a few days later. He’s been trying to shave regularly so when the unfortunate date came, he blindly reached out for a shaving cream just to not find it in its usual place. The omega looked around and shrugged at first, thinking that maybe he forgot to put it back after cleaning but then he remembered the notification and again - just nodded in understanding. Of course - he can’t shave anymore.

He left the shower in a great mood, happy that his routine was shortened by a few minutes. Well, that happiness didn’t last long as while he was applying the anti-stretch marks lotion on his body, Taehyung looked in the mirror and noticed dark pubic hair, clearly noticeable even from a little distance.

“Huh, I really should’ve-” he cuts his mumbling as the realisation dawns upon him.

He can’t shave. He’s in a very fresh relationship and he can’t shave. He can’t make himself presentable for his alpha, he can’t do even this little effort for him.

Taehyung knows it’s irrational. He doesn’t mind pubic hair, it’s a natural thing. Sometimes when he gets lazy he and Jeongguk have sex when he isn't shaved, and the alpha never minds either. Him shaving or not shaving is no indication if he takes care of himself, nor changes in any way if he’s desirable for his boyfriend. But for some reason, Taehyung can’t help his mind spiraling.

And it escalates very easily. With every bathroom visit he keeps staring at himself in the mirror and the writer could swear that every time it grows longer and longer. He’s turning into a werewolf (oh, irony) and he panics because sooner or later Jeongguk will want to get intimate again - they never go long without it, and what is Taehyung going to do? How is he going to show himself in such neglected condition?

He can’t of course. So they will not have sex for the next two months.

The mere thought makes Taehyung shiver. There is no way Jeongguk’s going to comply with such absurd idea. And not only Jeongguk, Taehyung can’t imagine such a scenario either but what can he do?

The shower situation happened on the weekend, it’s Thursday and Taehyung’s already so distressed that all the logical reasoning went out of the window. Long forgotten disdain, long forgotten no-fucks-given attitude - his hormones are going crazy, he’s a failure of an omega and Jeongguk’s going to leave him any day now.

On Monday Taehyung got so stressed, he got some weird cramps and he thought he went into premature labour. Thankfully, he managed to calm himself down a bit as he didn’t want to call Yoongi in absolute panic, and after a few minutes in his main nest, the pain went away and he ended up only calling doctor Song who simply advised him to not stress too much.

The most useless advice the writer’s heard in his entire life, hands down.

It all comes down the drain when Jeongguk comes from work and gym. He brought a big bouquet of sunflowers and Taehyung’s favourite gummies and even though he’s clearly exhausted he still promises to massage Taehyung before bed.

And so he does. The alpha’s got really good at it, everyone knows that practice makes perfect but that rule is especially true when it comes to Jeongguk. And because his hands are magic, Taehyung quickly gets worked up, his scent turning unmistakably sweeter and breath quickening with every particularly stronger pressure of fingers.

Jeongguk of course doesn’t miss any of these signs and his hands start to wander a bit less innocently, driving the omega even crazier. So much that he doesn’t think for a second where things are heading until his boyfriend’s fingers briefly brush his half hard cock.

It works like a bucket of icy cold water making Taehyung flinch and his heart stops. Jeongguk mistakes it as a good sign and he continues, slowly pressing his own muscular body closer and closer.

“Pup,” he whispers, still caressing Taehyung’s skin all over. “You smell so divine.”

“Guk,” the omega chokes out, not sure what to do, how to react to not hurt his boyfriend’s feelings with rejection. “You will get me horny.”

“Mmm, I think it’s a bit too late for such warnings,” Jeongguk chuckles and kisses his scent gland. “I can smell you’re all bothered already. You’re driving me crazy, pup, shit…”

The alpha is hard against his hip and Taehyung wants to cry with how much he wants to feel his boyfriend inside him, it’s almost like he could die if he doesn’t get that knot right this instant. Pregnancy hormones are no joke and the writer considers for a second just fucking it and being with his alpha as he craves. But the image of his mirror reflection flashes through his mind and the tears start to well up in his eyes. He can’t.

Thankfully, there are other ways he can satisfy both of them and he’s going to use it to his advantage.

“Let me take care of you, now,” he whispers and hovers over Jeongguk, who quickly catches up and is clearly on board, though he still asks:

“Are you sure?”

“Of course.” Taehyung smiles at him sweetly and leans in for a short, heated kiss.

He starts his journey down soon because both of them are equally eager for what’s to come. The omega pays particular attention to Jeongguk’s neck and his scent glands, to drive the alpha even crazier.

“Pup, don’t tease,” he moans after another minute of assault.

“Right, got a bit distracted,” Taehyung breathes out and smiles sheepishly. “I think I started to get a bit high on you.”

Jeongguk laughs but it soon catches in his throat when his boyfriend continues his trip down his body, even if with a bit of struggle due to his big baby bump, leaving a wet trail behind his lips. Taehyung doesn’t lie when he says Jeongguk’s physique distracts him and every time he gets his hands (or mouth) on him he acts like an addict finally getting his drug.

He devotes himself to devour the alphas body, from his collarbones, through sternum, insanely hot brown nipples, all around his defined pecs and abs, playfully dipping his tongue in the cute belly button, making Jeongguk giggle and squirm under him, until he gets to the first obstacle. His boyfriend always sleeps shirtless but unfortunately keeps his boxers on and right now Taehyung stares at the piece of clothing with disdain. He’s never found a pair of boxers this offending.

“These need to go,” he murmurs under his nose and Jeongguk huffs out a laugh, already driven out of his mind.

Taehyung doesn’t even wait for the answer, he just rips the boxers off of the alpha and without further ado, he takes all of him down his throat.

“Shit, pup,” Jeongguk groans, taking hold of Taehyung’s hair to slow him down. “Easy there, don’t hurt yourself.”

But the omega doesn’t have any of that. He feels like he got in some kind of trance and there’s only one single sense of purpose in his brain - to please his alpha. So he kisses, licks, sucks and swallows. And when that feels like not enough, the omega helps himself with his hand to stroke what he can’t fit in his mouth and to give some attention to Jeongguk’s balls which makes the alpha moan louder and louder, while he keeps pulling Taehyung’s hair.

The omega whimpers when his boyfriend starts to shallowly thrust his hips and supports himself on both hands, to let Jeongguk know he can go harder on him. Thankfully, he understands and soon enough he’s fucking up his boyfriend’s throat, releasing soon on his tongue and Taehyung’s eyes roll back, high on the strong scent, taste and feeling of fulfillment from pleasuring his alpha.

“Shit, pup, that was,” Jeongguk breathes out and Taehyung whines, already climbing to sit on his lap. “Let me-”

“No-o,” the omega chokes out, “I-” he starts rolling his hips, grinding on one of the muscular thighs of his boyfriend, so close to his own climax already.

“Baby, let me-”

“Just a moment, please.”

“My sweet pup, at least take these off,” Jeongguk reaches out to pull down Taehyung’s shorts but he stops him with a deadly grip on the wrist. It’s so messy and slippery, the omega almost doesn’t mind the clothes but no matter how inconvenient they are, he can’t let his boyfriend undress him.

So he just speeds up his movement until he’s tumbling over with a loud cry of, “Alpha!”

Taehyung’s spilling in his pants and he can feel all the body fluids starting to slowly drip down his legs and soon probably he’s going to be disgusted and in urgent need of a shower but at the moment he lets himself relish in pleasure.

“Fuck, pup, I think I could come again just from looking at you like this.”

The omega laughs breathlessly and carefully lies down, before his legs refuse to properly function anymore. There’s still a trip to the bathroom awaiting for him but for now he just wants to revel in the post orgasm bliss.

“Shall I just bring a towel and clean you up?” Jeongguk asks quietly when he notices the writer’s slowly falling asleep.

“No, I need to wash myself properly,” he murmurs with a frown and sits up.

He’s still a bit out of it but if he doesn’t move now, he’s going to fall asleep and then Jeongguk for sure will try to clean him and that’s exactly what Taehyung wants to avoid.

“I’ll be right back.”

And he can see that his sweet alpha is a bit confused, clearly not able to pinpoint what exactly feels wrong, but Taehyung’s not going to start any conversation. And he hopes that his boyfriend doesn’t do that either.

Chapter Text

For the rest of the pineapple weekend Taehyung somehow manages to avoid any uncomfortable conversation with Jeongguk. As their pack is preparing for Hoseok’s arrival, Taehyung spends most of the time in the pack house, helping with everything he can and is allowed to. Which is not much, as both Jimin and Yoongi become more and more protective of him, the further into pregnancy he is.

He still assists in the kitchen, does some light chores and chooses items that they will scent for Hobi’s nest. It’s a happy time for their little family and Taehyung can’t wait to finally hug his hyung. The beta is arriving on Wednesday and on Saturday they are having a welcome party. Jeongguk is going to join them on that one and that is another reason why the omega is so giddy. His boyfriend is not a part of their pack yet but he will finally be introduced to the last member and Taehyung is sure that Hoseok is going to love the alpha and approve of him.

It still doesn’t change the fact that Taehyung is hiding and when he comes back home on Sunday night with the whole box of cantaloupes for the upcoming week, he goes back to being a nervous mess. Jeongguk of course notices right away when he leaves the car. The alpha is waiting for him in the garage to bring the fruit upstairs, and sizes him up with a worried look.

“Are you ok, pup?”

“Of course, why?” Taehyung tries to smile but it looks like it doesn't ease his boyfriend’s concern.

“You smell so distressed. Did something happen on the way home?”

“No, no, Gukkie, I promise. I guess I must be more nervous about hyung’s return than I thought. I am already thinking about that long flight he’s going to take and it stresses me out a bit.”

It’s not exactly a lie. Taehyung is indeed nervous about that but it’s not the only reason for all the distress, already palpable in his scent.

“Don’t worry, baby. It’s gonna be okay and soon you’ll be reunited with your hyung and your whole pack will be together,” Jeongguk assures and kisses his temple before closing the boot and starting to walk to the elevator. “And in the meantime I will prepare you a relaxing bath, give you a nice massage and then we can cuddle in our nest. Do you prefer to stay at your apartment tonight?”

“Yes, please,” the omega whispers softly. The plan sounds amazing and he tries to ignore the guilt rising in him more and more.

A cosy night soothes Taehyung and his omega to the point that he starts to believe that he’s been inconspicuous enough and Jeongguk doesn’t suspect anything. He realises that for the whole weekend the alpha didn’t try to initiate any intimate contact either and it’s another reason he manages to relax. He’s at such ease that on Monday he goes down on his alpha again, all happy and content that he satisfies his partner. He also doesn’t freak out this time when he refuses Jeongguk to return the favour and to his relief, the alpha doesn’t push him.

Of course, it is too beautiful to be true and he should’ve known that he’s not off the hook so easily.

When on Tuesday Taehyung comes back from the swimming pool, he’s surprised to be welcomed in his flat by both Yeontan and Bam. It can only mean that Jeongguk is home, though he should still be at the gym.

“Baby?” he yells from the entrance, patting both dogs on their heads before walking further into the apartment. “You’re home already? I didn’t expect you back for a bit longer, I was planning to make some nice steak tonight.”

He walks in the living room and finds his boyfriend sitting on the couch with his elbows resting on his knees, playing with his fingers. Jeongguk smiles sadly, and ignores his question. 

“Tae, can we talk?”

The omega freezes on the spot, like a deer caught in the headlights. “Did something happen?”

Jeongguk ignores him again, only looking down at his hands. He doesn’t say anything until the omega sits down next to him, close but not close enough to touch. He doesn’t even bother to control his scent and it noticeably sours. And it scares the shit out of Taehyung.

So this is it. Jeongguk is not happy anymore and Taehyung failed as an omega. His boyfriend probably won’t break up with him right now, he’s too sweet to do it without any warning, but this is exactly the scenario he was dreading.

“Tae, did I do something wrong?”

“What?” The question takes him off guard. “No, of course not, you’ve been perfect as always.”

“That’s clearly not true,” Jeongguk whispers and finally looks at him with pain in his eyes. “Baby, please tell me, did I hurt you?”

“No! Never! Why are you asking such questions?”

“Then why-” the alpha stops and takes a shaky breath. “Why don’t you let me touch you?” He doesn’t let Taehyung answer. “You flinch when I get close and I can smell distress in your scent. You think you are so sly but I know you, Tae. I see that you don’t like my touch anymore, you’re scared of it even and I am honestly freaking out because I don’t know what I did to make you like this. I am so sorry, pup, I hate myself that I didn’t even realise I was hurting you and that I still don’t know how I did that but I am so terribly sorry. Please, tell me what it was and I promise I will never do it again. I will be more careful and-”

“Gukkie, Gukkie, stop, baby, calm down,” Taehyung takes the alpha’s hand in his but feeling how it’s trembling, he climbs on Jeongguk’s lap instead and starts scenting him. “Calm down, baby.”

“How can I calm down when I know I hurt the most precious person to me?” he whispers and Taehyung sees how his hands twitch, as they did the whole time during his short rant, clearly eager to hold the omega but forcefully stopped before they can even touch him.

“You didn’t hurt me, I promise. You are perfect, you haven’t done anything wrong. You could never hurt me, my alpha. I’ll explain everything but first please, calm down, baby.”

It takes a few more minutes of scenting for the alpha to finally ease up a bit. At some point Taehyung manoeuvres them to the couch nest, to help Jeongguk relax easier and it seems like it was a good idea because only then he hesitantly reciprocates the hug. They cuddle for a while and when Jeongguk’s patchouli is barely distinguishable, almost completely covered with jasmine, he finally speaks again.

“So if I didn’t hurt you, then what’s wrong?”

Taehyung closes his eyes and pulls his boyfriends a little bit closer to himself. Jeongguk immediately tightens his arms around him, too, trying to provide him as much comfort as he can. “I can’t shave.”

There’s silence for a few seconds and the omega grows more and more nervous.

“Okay? And?”

“And I feel terrible,” he admits in a whisper. “We just started dating and I can’t even make an effort-”

“Please, stop talking,” Jeongguk interrupts him and Taehyung promptly shuts up. “Are you being serious now?”

“Yes, of course, I-”

“Fuck,” the alpha breathes out and untangles himself from the embrace.

“No! Wait! Please, I want to, I promise. It’s just that shaving or waxing can irritate the hair follicles and increase the risk of infection if for some reason I needed a C-section. Please, Gukkie, don’t-”

“I don’t care why you don’t shave, Tae. Is this why I was losing my mind for the last few days? Shit…” Jeongguk chuckles humorlessly and hides his head between his hands. “I don’t care if you shave or not shave at all, Tae. I honestly couldn’t give a fuck. Do you really think I’m so shallow that I would- what exactly? Feel disgusted? Break up with you? I really don’t want to belittle your feelings or fears but this is just dumb, Tae and I am so pissed right now.”

Taehyung’s bottom lip starts to wobble. “I’m sorry…”

“I know you didn’t mean it and it’s probably your pregnancy hormones so I don’t want to be mad at you but I feel like I went through hell this last week and I think I need to leave for a second to not say something I won’t mean and surely will regret later.”

“Gukkie…”

“Pup, we’re okay, yeah? I will just go for a quick jog to calm myself and my alpha and we’ll talk more when I’m back, okay? I don’t want to let my frustrations on you, especially because I know it’s not your fault.” The alpha throws him a small, sad smile and, without a kiss or a single touch, gets up and leaves the apartment with Bam.

When the door closes behind the two, Taehyung feels as if someone threw a bucket of cold water on him. What has he done? Of course Jeongguk would feel hurt and angry. Taehyung’s been unreasonable with his fears, he should’ve talked with his boyfriend right away and explain his concerns. And while somewhere at the back of his head he knows it’s all only because of pregnancy hormones, just like Jeongguk said, it doesn’t stop his overthinking.

He’s landed the most perfect alpha any omega could dream of, and he treated him like some fuckboy that only cares about sex and his own knot. And it’s just ridiculous, he’s painfully aware of it. He hates his pregnancy brain sometimes but this time feels even worse than anything that happened up until now.

Jeongguk said they were fine and he just needed to cool down, which is fine and reasonable but the reassurance doesn’t stop the omega’s reeling mind. After ten minutes of nervously pacing around the living room, which stresses poor Yeontan so much, he starts whimpering, his eyes never leaving his owner, the writer can’t wait anymore and power walks to the bedroom.

A strong urge for nesting is overwhelming but the moment Taehyung sinks in between scented walls of his haven, he calms down a little. It’s permeated with Jeongguk’s patchouli, which never fails to soothe the omega’s nerves. It clears his mind enough so he doesn’t freak out more, imagining all the worst scenarios about Jeongguk changing his mind during his run and dumping Taehyung’s ungrateful ass upon his return. Ok, maybe it doesn’t help a hundred percent, but it’s not as bad as it could be. He doesn’t have a panic attack, and that’s something.

He’s dozing off when the door to the apartment opens and the duo is greeted by Yeontan’s panicked barks. Taehyung can hear his little fluff ball running from the entrance to the bedroom door like crazy and his heart swells a bit. His dog is such a softie and even though he tries to deceive everyone with his angry eyebrows, the omega knows better. 

Soon the nervous pacing and barking are joined by worried whimpers of Taehyung’s second protector. Bam paws at the door and his whines only grow in volume when it doesn’t open. They usually don’t close the door to the bedroom so the dogs just need to push to join them and sleep on the carpet at the feet of the bed, so they don’t understand why they can’t get in to comfort their beloved human.

“Now, now, go to the room guys, I will take care of our pups, don’t worry,” Jeongguk whispers to the dogs and after some ruffling and more whimpers, he slides in the bedroom.

Taehyung observes through half closed eyes as the alpha grabs a fresh change of clothes before leaving again to take a shower. He comes back a few minutes later and immediately gets in the nest, snuggling against the omega’s back.

“Baby?”

The writer considers for a second to pretend he’s asleep but he’s been a coward for way too long already, and look where it got them. So he hums and the arms around him tighten slightly.

“I’m sorry for getting angry,” Jeongguk whispers and hides his face in Taehyung’s nape.

“No, Jeongguk, you have nothing to apologise for-”

“But it was something that made you feel insecure, I shouldn’t have gotten angry about it and I’m sorry.”

“Silly Alpha,” Taehyung murmurs under his breath and clumsily turns around, so he can cup his boyfriend’s face in his hands. When he looks into those big eyes and the only thing he can find is affection, his racing heart finally starts to slow down. “It’s me who didn’t handle the matter as I should’ve in the first place.”

“But-”

“No buts,” the omega tsks and kisses Jeongguk tenderly. “I’m just happy you decided to confront me so we can both relax now.”

“I just love you so much, I was losing my mind thinking that I’d hurt you…”

“What?” Taehyung breathes out and moves away, searching between the alpha’s eyes.

Jeongguk seems to be as surprised with his confession as Taehyung is but after a second his face softens, gaze turns even more tender and he caresses the omega’s face. “I love you. So, so much that sometimes I feel like my heart is about to burst. And please don’t feel pressured to-”

“I love you,” Taehyung interrupts quickly, before his boyfriend could finish the absurd sentence. Of course he does, how could he not? He could never fight it. He was in a losing position way before they got together. It’s impossible to not fall in love with Jeongguk. It’s impossible for Taehyung to not fall in love with Jeongguk.

“Really?” The alpha’s eyes get even bigger than usual, as if he couldn’t comprehend that he can be loved back. Silly alpha.

“Really, how can you be surprised? You are perfect, the best alpha I could ask for, my favourite person in the whole world,” Taehyung smiles brightly and laughs out loud, when his face is attacked with dozens of kisses.

“Shit, pup, I’m so happy, you have no idea.”

“I think I can imagine.”

“Did you hear that, Nari?” Jeongguk suddenly stops his small assault and moves down the bed, careful to not destroy any part of the nest. He uncovers Taehyung’s bump and sticks his nose in his belly button, provoking more giggles. “Your appa loves me, can you believe this?”

“Silly alpha,” Taehyung repeats his thought, caressing his boyfriend’s hair fondly.

“I love him too, you know? Very, very much. And I love you, too,” he kisses their daughter tenderly. “My two loves, I am so happy. What did I do to deserve the two of you? I’m a dang lucky alpha.”

“We are lucky to have you, Gukkie.”

“You know, I wanted to tell you something for a while now.”

Jeongguk crawls up again, to cuddle Taehyung to himself and sighs with content, when the omega starts to scent him.

“When you told me about our baby bunny’s name, it was like a sign from the universe for me.”

“Why?”

“Because tiger lily is my birth flower.”

“Wait, really?” The omega looks up at him, surprised.

Jeongguk hums in confirmation. “I told you it is perfect. You chose it on your own, like you wanted us to be even more connected.”

“This is crazy. What are the odds?”

“Another serendipity.”

They look at each other, both lost in thought. Sometimes it really feels like fate wanted them to get together, like they were each other's destiny. There are too many of those little coincidences, for all of them to be considered a true accident. And to think all of this started with Taehyung’s decision to have a baby on his own.

Wednesday starts with two lighter hearts and an atmosphere full of love. Somehow the couple is even more enamoured than they’ve been since the beginning of their courting and they can’t stop whispering words of affection in the safety of their nest, before they finally get up to start a day.

The end of heavy tension is only one of the reasons for Taehyung to buzz with excitement though. While Jeongguk is getting ready for work, the omega packs a bag of necessities as he’s going to spend the night at the pack house.

“I don’t like it.”

The writer looks over his shoulder, to see the alpha glaring at the bag like it personally offended him.

“It’s just one night, you big baby.”

“I know you’re not gonna miss me because you’re gonna have your hyung after so long, but I’ll be here in an empty nest with just our two stinky pups.”

“How dare you,” Taehyung feigns offence. Yeontan and Bam also glare at the man as if they understood every word. “Don’t you dare talk about our sons this way.”

“Okay, they don’t stink but out of all my pups why do my two favourites have to abandon me?”

“Gukkie, please, don’t be dramatic, I’m gonna feel bad…”

“Good. You’re leaving me, you should feel bad. What if I die with longing?”

“You’re so unserious.”

“Okay, okay, you can go. But leave bunny here with me.”

“Gukkie,” Taehyung whines and the alpha giggles mischievously, walking closer and back hugging him.

“I’m joking, I’m joking. Don’t be mad. I know how much you couldn’t wait for Hoseok to be back.”

“I can’t believe he’s gonna be here in-” he checks the watch on Jeongguk’s wrist. “Three hours.”

“I’m happy for you, baby.” Jeongguk places a soft kiss on his temple. “And I can’t wait to meet him on the weekend.”

“Actually, you’re gonna meet him tomorrow.”

“How come?”

“I want to invite him for my check up, so he can see Nari. He’s the only one who hasn’t met her yet.”

“Sounds like a great idea. Would you like to go just the two of you?”

“No, no, honey,” Taehyung turns around in his arms and caresses the alpha’s cheek. “You need to be there too. To see her grow.”

“Yeah, she’s a big girl now.” Jeongguk smiles with heart eyes, cupping the big belly between them. “Our little cantaloupe.” He then checks the time and sighs heavily. “I need to go. I really don’t want to but work is calling. The dogs were out already, so you don’t have to worry. They’ll be ok until I come back.”

“Thank you, you’re the best.”

“Of course. Have fun baby, I’m gonna miss you. You too, my sweet girl.”

They kiss for the last time, extra long because they are just so lovey-dovey after the events of the evening before and because they got so used to being together every day, that one night of separation feels like a big deal. But when the alpha leaves, Taehyung can’t be truly sad. 

His hyung is coming home.

The atmosphere in a car is almost festive. Jimin looks like he’s about to vibrate out of the backseat and Taehyung is not much better, making Yoongi roll his eyes every few seconds but the omegas know he’s just as excited. He’s been friends with Hoseok the longest and he missed the beta dearly. Not only that, but as a head alpha, it’s also the hardest for him when the pack is not a whole. His strong urge to care and protect hasn’t been fully satisfied for months and frequent check ups through messages, calls and video calls can be sufficient only for a limited time.

They have big banners in the boot, prepared by Jimin who couldn’t sleep last night, so he cleaned the whole house again and after he ran out of places to scrub, he went into a creativity spur. Taehyung’s seen enough glitter to know that Yoongi is going to curse for months, not being able to get rid of it but being a big softie he is, he could never refuse his mate to pack his masterpieces into the car.

Incheon airport is as busy as usual but the three packmates find a good spot in the arrival hall, to greet their favourite beta with gusto. Each of them holds his own banner and the big, beautiful, heart-shaped smile that blooms on Hoseok’s face the very moment he sees them, makes all the glitter that fell on them worth it.

“Hobi hyung!”

Jimin is the first one to take off to run to their beloved friend. And the moment he gets to him, he jumps into his arms without a second thought. The two immediately burst into tears, making Taehyung sniffle as well, while he impatiently walks to them. Yoongi doesn’t wait for his mate to get down on the floor and starts scenting the beta, close to tears himself.

“Hyung,” Taehyung whines, when he finally gets to them a few seconds behind but Hoseok is fast to drop Jimin and free himself from his embrace.

“Oh my Luna, Taehyung-ah!” He covers his mouth with both hands and starts to cry even harder.

“I know,” the omega caresses his baby bump lovingly. “Look, bunny, your rich aunt from America arrived.”

“Tsk, you brat,” Hoseok laughs wetly and finally hugs him. “I missed you so much, mama.”

“I’m gonna nest the shit out of you, I hope you know that.”

“I wouldn’t count for anything else, babe.” The beta moves slightly away and hovers his eager hands right above the big belly. “Can I?”

“Really? Do you think you need to ask?” The moment Hoseok finally cups the bump between his hands, there’s a well measured kick directed at one of them. “I think she’s happy, too.” 

The beta starts to cry even more, burying his nose in Taehyung’s scent gland. Yoongi and Jimin immediately surround them, all three scenting the emotional beta, to help him calm down. It’s been a long time since they’ve been together as a pack and they allow themselves to follow their instincts. Even the fact that they’re in a public place doesn’t deter them. The happiness is just too overwhelming.

After a long moment, it’s actually Taehyung who stops the impromptu scenting session. Not because it’s inappropriate but because it’s simply not enough for him.

“My hormones are driving me crazy right now. I want to make you part of my nest, so let’s go home.”

“I must say, I didn’t expect such a grand welcome.”

They started with a festive lunch, Hoseok’s all favourite korean dishes being served and an enormous amount of sliced cantaloupe for dessert. Taehyung, Jimin and Yoongi cooked everything that couldn’t be pre-prepared while Hobi took his time to freshen up.

And now with bellies full, the four (five) of them are lying in the nest built on the entire surface of the unfolded sofa in the living room. The furniture is massive, way too big for just Jimin and Yoongi but when all of them were living in the pack house, it was a must to fit everyone comfortably. It will also come in handy on occasions like this one, when the whole pack gets together.

“Didn’t you really?” Jimin snorts with amusement and snuggles closer to the beta. “We all missed you.”

“Gosh, I missed you, too. States were fun and everything but nothing feels like home.”

“Yeah, you’ve had your adventure, now you stay here forever,” Yoongi grumbles, on the verge of sleep.

“Aww, are you experiencing the syndrome of an empty nest, old man?” Hoseok laughs loudly and the alpha just scoffs.

“Please, I finally have some peace.”

“You are such a dad sometimes,” Taehyung snickers and fixes the pregnancy pillow to lie more comfortably. “I bet you can’t wait to dote on hyung before he finds an apartment and moves out.”

“I need to start seriously looking now that I’m here. I don’t want to sponge off you for too long.”

“Nonsense, hyung. We love having you here and it is your home. Always will be.”

“No more talking about moving out. You just arrived and it’s enough that this little traitor left.”

“Hey,” Taehyung pouts and points at his baby bump. “I had a valid reason.”

“And I was supposed to live with you, to help you and take care of you but you decided to run off and find yourself an alpha,” Hoseok teases. “Speaking of which, how is the infamous JJG-130709 doing? Why is he not here?”

“It's pack time,” the omega mumbles and sniffles a bit. 

He means it, it is time for their family, though it didn’t stop him from sneaking one hoodie of his alpha into the nest. No one commented on it, knowing well that at this stage of their relationship and Taehyung’s vulnerable state, he can’t properly nest without Jeongguk’s scent. Besides, he already reeks of the alpha anyway, so one jumper doesn’t make much difference.

“You could’ve brought him, we wouldn’t mind,” Yoongi says in a soft tone and Taehyung looks at him with big puppy eyes. It means a world, coming from his head alpha.

“I know but… I wanted to have this night just for us. Hobi hasn’t been home in months and Jeongguk is still a stranger to him.”

“Thank you, pup. I would be happy if he was here but I have to admit, it’s nice to be just with you. Though when I close my eyes I can imagine he is here with us with how much you stink of him.”

“Hey, Jeonggukie doesn’t stink!”

“He sure does,” Yoongi mumbles and Jimin swats his head lightly. “I’m joking!”

“But you could’ve brought Tannie, I missed that little rat, too.”

The banter following is like a balm to Taehyung’s soul. They were apart for a long time but their dynamics haven't changed. Sure, they stayed in touch but video calls can’t fully replace a proper face to face contact, scenting within the pack, nesting together, skinship. He, Jimin and Hoseok have always been touchy people, so now they are thriving again.

They don’t have a lot to catch up on but they still keep talking for hours. Taehyung tells them how he and Jeongguk confessed the night before and Jimin and Yoongi share how they started to talk about having a pup. Not yet, Jimin’s heat comes right next month which is a bit too soon, but who knows, maybe the next one will be the one.

The dinner is another feast, with Korean style burgers, tons of fries and bottles of soju. Taehyung of course doesn’t drink with them, opting for some alcohol free wine but he enjoys himself immensely, watching his favourite people getting progressively more and more drunk, joking around and beaming with happiness.

“Hyung,” Taehyung whispers some time later, when they are already dozing off in the nest. None of them wanted to go to sleep in their respective bedrooms.

Hoseok next to him hums to indicate that he’s listening but is too lazy to actually speak.

“Would you like to go tomorrow for a check up with me to meet Nari?”

That effectively makes the beta wake up from his sleepy state. He turns his head and even in the darkness, just illuminated by a waning crescent moon, the tears in his eyes are clearly visible.

“Tae-ah… really?”

“Of course,” Taehyung smiles and reaches his hand out, to intertwine their fingers. “You’ve been slacking off as an uncle, you’re the last one to go with us.”

Hobi chuckles wetly and changes position to snuggle closer to the omega. They scent each other for the last time and finally fall asleep, content.

The two of them go to the clinic straight from the pack house. Jeongguk is going to join them there, as he’s coming straight from work. It’s fun, driving with his hyung, singing and messing around to their favourite shared playlist. Once again it feels like no time has passed since the last time they did it, except that instead of driving to buy wine for a movie night, they drive for Taehyung’s prenatal visit.

And the omega is a little bit nervous. Not about the check up, he’s already used to it and long gone are times when he was stressed about everything. No, it’s about the meeting. He’s going to introduce Jeongguk to his hyung and while Hoseok is the impersonation of a sunshine, little social butterfly and the most precious human being that ever graced this planet, he’s also highly protective of Taehyung. Taehyung himself isn’t sure why his packmates feel this strong urge to take care of him, as if he was not capable of doing it himself, but those instincts are only highlighted now when he’s pregnant.

So when they arrive and he sees his boyfriend already waiting, as always reading another pamphlet about pregnancy and “what to expect when you’re expecting”, he relaxes slightly. Because soon it will be over and another one of his irrational overthinking is gonna be put to an end. Of course it will, Taehyung has no idea what kind of person wouldn’t love Jeongguk on the spot but that surely would be a red flag.

The alpha notices them almost immediately, always on high alert for Taehyung’s scent. He looks up and the blinding smile shot his way makes Taehyung’s heart flutter in his chest.

“So that’s the bunny alpha I’ve heard so much about,” Hoseok stands in front of Jeongguk with crossed arms, measuring the man from head to toes.

Jeongguk throws Taehyung a bit confused glance but quickly pulls himself together. “That would be correct. Nice to meet you, Hoseok-ssi.” He bows slightly and after standing back straight, he reaches out for the omega. “Hi baby, how are my two pups?”

“Hey, missed you,” Taehyung murmurs and tries to subtly scent his boyfriend. The alpha still smells like him but it’s not as distinctive as he likes.

“I missed you, too.” Jeongguk smiles against his temple, gently cupping the baby bump. After a short moment he looks back at Hoseok. “Sorry for that, I tend to get clingy after being abandoned.”

“Hey!”

“You are as dramatic as our Taehyungie,” the beta laughs and rolls his eyes. “Match made in heaven indeed.”

“Can’t deny that one. We are pretty much perfect together.”

“Mr Kim?”

The three of them look at the nurse, who is opening the door to Dr Song’s office.

Taehyung turns to the beta. “Ready to meet bunny?”

It’s a good thing that Hoseok is the last person Taehyung’s going to take with him for a visit. Dr Song has probably seen this scene many times but it starts to be a bit embarrassing for the omega that he keeps bringing people who cry and go through a small emotional breakdown the moment they see his baby. It’s sweet and heartwarming, another confirmation for the eternal love that is already pointed towards his little girl, and he’s the last to judge about being emotional, but hyung is going extra with his meltdown.

Thankfully the doctor is very professional and only offers a polite smile and a box of tissues to the weeping beta and when Hoseok finally calms down, he continues the check up as if nothing happened.

“Everything looks good,” he says when he finishes the measurements. “The baby is growing as expected, nothing to worry about. You’re in your 32nd week now so it might be time to start perineal massages. You are probably aware that it can reduce the chance of sustaining a tear that requires stitches, hence I highly recommend it if you consider natural childbirth.”

“We’ll make sure to do it. How frequent should the massages be?” Jeongguk asks and bows his head while accepting the ultrasound photos and a brochure from the doctor.

“Two times a week is enough, you can find all the information in the pamphlet I just gave you. I will demonstrate to you now how to do it correctly.” 

Dr Song opens one drawer and takes out the model of a male omega’s external genitalia and proceeds to show them a proper technique of massages. Jeongguk observes, fully focused, asking questions and even requests to try on the model under the doctor’s eyes to be sure he will be able to do everything correctly.

Hoseok throws Taehyung a meaningful look and the omega only answers with a dopey smile. He feels so cared for, he can’t even scold Jeongguk when the alpha throws him a playful, overly lewd wink. He’s a dork, but he’s Taehyung’s dork.

Saying goodbye to Hoseok is hard, even if it’s only for a day and a half. But Taehyung needs to go for his yoga class and he really misses his nest and sleeping with Jeongguk. So after the prenatal visit and spending half of the afternoon in the omega’s apartment, hyung leaves to go back to the pack house.

Taehyung, Jeongguk and their two dogs drive there on Saturday morning, where they continue the welcoming celebrations with food, drinking, playing with dogs, nesting and cantaloupes. And looking at his little family, Taehyung thinks that there’s nothing better than this. Spending the day with his favourite people and two puppies.

He looks at his Hobi hyung, who throws himself at Jeongguk in a fit of laughter. The alpha barely manages to catch him but he spills a bit of his alcohol free beer on Yeontan’s head, and the pomeranian sends him a deadly glare. He looks at Jimin cuddling on a floor with Bam, after an intense play of tug war. He looks at his pack alpha who’s cutting even more cantaloupes and prepares the whole set of new snacks in the kitchen, smiling to himself.

It’s like all puzzles fell into their place. 

Almost all.

Taehyung looks down and caresses his baby bump tenderly.

“We can’t wait for you, my love.”

Chapter Text

A new week brings new items on Taehyung’s checklist. He’s been diligently ticking off task after task, according to the whole plan and he remembers how he put the whole list together. He was wondering how he’d be able to manage, some things seemed a bit too much for a pregnant omega, but of course his Yoongi hyung was more than ready to support him in any way he could. And while it was sweet and Taehyung couldn’t be more grateful, the reality is so much better.

Now he has an excited alpha father of his baby by his side, reading meticulously the manual for installing the baby car seat that’s been waiting in the closet for months for its turn on a checklist. His boyfriend claimed the middle of the living room’s floor as his working space and Taehyung can only watch him fondly from his seat on a couch, snuggled between Yeontan and Bam and eating slice after slice of honeydew melon, feeding pieces to the alpha from time to time.

“It doesn’t seem complicated,” Jeongguk hums as he tips his head back, silently asking for a bite but not taking his eyes away from the instructions. “And it’s still one of the best models on the market. It’s like a Mercedes among baby car seats.”

“I know, Yoongi explained it to me the same way after a week of research.”

“He did a good job. I was thinking about buying the same one.”

“You want to buy one, too?” Taehyung asks, surprised, freezing in the middle of passing another piece of melon to Jeongguk, causing the alpha to whine cutely. Taehyung places a fruit in his mouth.

“Well, of course? We need a seat in both cars, moving one between them would be annoying. I also can’t imagine us using only one car, can you?” the alpha asks incredulously.

“I just… didn’t expect you to… actually I don’t know.”

“Baby, of course I’ve been thinking about it,” Jeongguk smiles softly and turns a bit in his seat so he can nuzzle Taehyung’s underbelly. “You two are the only things I can think about lately.”

“You’re such a sap,” the omega grumbles but a rosy tint blooming on his cheeks gives away how much he actually enjoys it.

“You love me.”

It’s still a bit surreal for Taehyung. How easily this word became a permanent part of their daily life, of their whispered conversations in bed before sleep and before starting a new day. It was enough for them to confess once, for the dams to be broken, and now it seems like they need to repeat it time after time. Love, love, love.

“I love you,” the omega confirms and a bunny smile he loves so much appears right on a bunny face in front of him.

“I love you, too.”

The second baby car seat is delivered the very next day (in the moments like this, Taehyung is not all in to fuck this modern life), so Jeongguk does a quick work to install both of them and this way another task on the list can be ticked off. It makes their anticipation even more urgent.

“It feels just like yesterday when I bought that seat belt adapter for you and now? We’re installing baby car seats for our bunny,” Jeongguk chuckles, caressing softly the new addition in his car.

“Time flies for sure,” Taehyung leans on his boyfriend. “It feels a bit surreal that she’ll be here in just a little over a month.”

“It flies but at the same time I feel like a lifetime has passed since then,” the alpha sighs. “It’s funny how sometimes I can’t remember times before you.”

“Our meeting for sure threw your life upside down.”

“It did, I won’t deny. But it’s more like it was upside down for all these years and now it’s finally on the right track. With you and Nari, how it should be.”

“You can be so cheesy sometimes,” the omega mumbles and Jeongguk kisses his temple with a giggle.

“Only sometimes?”

“Fair point. Sometimes you are not cheesy.”

The alpha only shrugs with a cocky smirk and closes the door. He doesn’t let Taehyung help with cleaning all the cartboards so the writer waits for him patiently staring at the safety seat.

At some point he looks at the passenger seat and a question pops up in his mind. He’s been wondering about it for months but never found an occasion to ask his boyfriend.

“Baby?”

“Yeah?”

“Why did you get that seat belt adapter?” Taehyung bites his bottom lip and moves his gaze to the alpha whose eyes are already on him. “I mean, we barely knew each other back then and I know you said you got scared after the incident and you wanted to make sure we are protected with bunny in case you give us a lift but Gukkie…” He sighs. “It’s a very good appliance, probably very expensive as it’s the best model out there, according to Yoongi hyung. You could’ve just gotten a portable one or something.”

“I know,” Jeongguk sighs and takes the omega’s hand. “I guess I panicked at the moment. I meant what I said, I got scared to death and I couldn’t sleep properly for a few days. I would never forgive myself if something happened to any of you two. To be honest, I would probably be just as terrified if something like this happened while I was driving any pregnant omega.”

That makes sense. Taehyung’s not offended or anything, as he said, they barely knew each other when all that happened and Jeongguk is just simply the sweetest alpha in the world, so it makes sense that the almost accident shaken him up. As a driver he had to feel responsible and knowing that at the moment not only his but two other people’s lives, one not even born yet, was in his hands must have been scary.

“My alpha was restless,” Jeongguk continues, bringing Taehyung back from his thoughts. “I remember reading about those adapters but it’s a bit hazy, I calmed down only when the thing came and I installed it in my car. I think I slept like twelve hours straight after that, exhausted but finally able to rest,” he laughs, slightly embarrassed. “It must sound so creepy to you. Luna, it must’ve been even more creepy back then, now that I think about it.”

“I thought it was sweet. I still do.”

“Still, creepy. I was a stranger to you and suddenly I adjusted my car for your needs.”

“Gukkie,” Taehyung smiles and cups the man’s face between his hands. “We are partly animals, our instincts are still strong. Even if you haven’t felt entitled to bunny until recently, your alpha felt that it’s his pup, so he got in a protective mode. It wasn’t like you started to stalk me or interfere with my life.”

“I would never do that!” Jeongguk is quick to deny, with those big eyes of his, clearly terrified at the mere suggestion.

“I know,” Taehyung assures, caressing the alpha’s cheeks with his thumbs. “That’s why I said it’s fine. You bought the adapter because you needed that for the peace of your mind. Maybe it would be weirder without the incident but I doubt you’d buy it without that scare.”

“Probably not,” Jeongguk sighs. “I think you are right. My alpha respected we have no claim on bunny but it was still pup from our guys,” he jokes to loosen up the atmosphere a bit. “I can’t blame everything on him, I freaked out too, but for sure it would be easier if he was more chilled about it.”

“You are just two big softies, trapped in this tough guy body,” the writer flashes his boxy smile and pinches Jeongguk’s squishy cheeks. “Only your cute face is giving you away.”

“I’m not cute, I’m handsome,” the alpha bares his teeth as if he was a growling wolf.

“You’re only proving my point,” Taehyung giggles and Jeongguk’s face softens as he brings the omega closer for a hug.

“As long as you find me hot, too, I don’t mind being cute.”

“I do, but don’t worry, I would still love you even without your precious abs.”

“Aish,” Jeongguk groans at the reminder of his embarrassing youth. “I’m gonna kill Jaehyun for telling you about that. Will you ever let it go?”

“Not a chance.”

The omega laughs even more when his boyfriend lets go of him, to finish cleaning the boxes, mumbling under his nose. And the writer stands by what he said. Cute.

Taehyung’s need for nesting is growing with each day. He spends hours rebuilding their nest in the living room, as well as the main one in the bedroom, not able to decide where he wants to make a small space for bunny when she’s born. They tried almost everything, including a baby section on Jeongguk’s side of the bed but they had to rebuild the whale construction in the middle of the night, as Taehyung woke up and went into a frenzy. It took a solid portion of the night for Jeongguk to calm down his hormonal boyfriend and he almost called in sick at work but finally the scenting started to work and the omega basically passed out in his arms.

And Taehyung isn’t the only one that needs to nest. Even when the omega is not present in the apartment, Jeongguk prefers to spend time snuggled between fabrics drenched in his two pups’ scents. The fact that it’s already the middle of June is kind of problematic but there’s nothing the determined alpha can’t fix.

“What is this?” Taehyung stops in the doorway to the living room, staring in bewilderment at the device attached to the wall.

“An air conditioner,” Jeongguk answers innocently, his legs covered with a thin blanket and Yeontan sleeping on his thighs.

“That I can feel,” the omega snorts and wiggles his way into the nest. “It’s nice. But when did you get it?”

“Today. I finished work earlier and called Yoongi hyung if he would help me.”

“And he didn’t stay to say hi?”

“Had some important meeting. Apparently everything in that label is falling apart without producer Min.”

“Sounds about right,” the omega giggles and sighs in content, burrowing himself further against Jeongguk’s side.

He might be due in a few weeks but he is determined to deliver this baby in a natural way, so he maintains his exercise (not harsh) regime and he’s deliciously tired and relaxed after swimming, ready to spend a cosy evening with his boyfriend. And the perspective of what’s going to happen when they go to bed makes everything even better. 

The break Taehyung and Jeongguk had in sex brought back the enhanced horniness in the pregnant omega with a double force. Jeongguk of course doesn’t complain, he indulges his pup any way he requests rather enthusiastically. The come back of their intimacy brought more benefits than one though. 

Jeongguk keeps his promise and massages Taehyung every day but recently they added perineal massages in the mix. They don’t do it often, twice a week was deemed enough by the pamphlet provided by doctor Song, but it is still a huge relief that Taehyung doesn’t have to do it on his own. He’s pretty sure he would break down in tears at first try from all the stress and it for sure would not feel as comfortable as it is when performed by his boyfriend. It’s intimate but in a non sexual way. 

It makes the omega feel cared for, pampered and gives both of them a sense of doing a good job of preparing for the arrival of their daughter. The massages are always followed by family time and Taehyung swears that he falls in love with Jeongguk more and more with every word whispered against his belly and with every little kick that answers. They keep joking she’s gonna follow in her father’s footsteps and get a black belt in taekwondo. She for sure already gives signs of having a lot of potential.

The writer is not sure if it’s this growing closeness or just the normal development of the pregnancy, but he started to dream about bunny more. Of course, he’s been dreaming about her since before she was even the size of a poppyseed inside him, before she was even put in him or before it was decided that his future baby is going to be bunny, but lately it became more frequent. 

He dreams about her every night. About her in his arms, about her in Jeongguk’s arms, about her in his arms and himself in Jeongguk’s arms. About him holding his two bunnies. So close, so complete, so dream.

And with every next day he only wants her more and more.

She trills him, she delights him; she pleases him, she excites him. She’s all that he’s been yearning for.*

The countdown brings them closer and closer to the due date and even though being in advanced pregnancy in the middle of the summer is tough, he endures it bravely. Everything for his sweet, little girl.

Like right now. It’s Thursday afternoon, he’s back from yoga class and finally finished the last laundry with the rest of baby clothes. He’s been at it the whole day, taking advantage of the scorching sun facing his balcony and drying everything to the bone in a record time.

So he’s now chilling in a nest on the sofa, the air conditioner conveniently cooling him down, surrounded by baby clothes waiting to be folded and with a fresh batch just hung outside. He’s exhausted, that’s why he hasn’t started organising everything in Nari’s chest of drawers, but he’s proud of himself, of being a good future appa, preparing himself in a collected, coordinated pace.

“What is this nice smell?”

Taehyung snaps his head to the side and he can feel something in his neck cracking. He groans.

“Shit, sorry, baby. Didn’t mean to scare you,” Jeongguk smiles apologetically, while the omega tries to massage the sore spot. His hand is quickly replaced by the alpha’s and the calming pheromones help him relax.

“It’s okay,” he sighs and closes his eyes, taking in the sweet touch and care. “Hi.”

“Hello, pup,” his boyfriend chuckles and leans down to place a small kiss on top of the omega’s nose. “What are you up to? What is this armageddon? It smells so nice here.”

“Did laundry.”

“All of it?”

“Well, kinda? All of Nari’s clothes.”

“Oh.”

The sudden change in the alpha’s voice makes Taehyung open his eyes. And he sees Jeongguk looking around with those big doe eyes of his, as he realises once again that their daughter is on her way. And her arrival is so, so close.

And something in his face, illuminated by the rays of the setting sun coming through the balcony door, brings Taehyung to his own epiphany. And resolution.

They need to talk.

“She’s going to be so small,” Jeongguk whispers, barely audible even in the otherwise quiet bedroom. He’s been caressing the baby bump for the last couple of minutes, almost lulling Taehyung to sleep with the soothing motion and his contented scent.

But Taehyung can’t sleep. He’s made a decision and he needs to have a talk with his boyfriend, too excited to wait, no matter how sleepy he is right now.

His resolution only solidified after seeing his big, buff, tattooed Alpha, biting on his lip piercing in concentration, while folding tiny baby clothes in the nursery. Taehyung was put on distribution duty, as he already had a plan on how to organise the chest of drawers in the best way but he spent most of the time watching his boyfriend with a fond smile.

Jeongguk is an epitome of a “gentle giant”, always delicate and caring, softening the image created by muscles and piercings and the tattoo sleeve. But there he was, tenderly grabbing another romper, folding it diligently and smoothing all the wrinkles before passing it on to Taehyung, just to grab an even tinier bodysuit and work around it with equal care. The alpha is going to be an amazing father, Taehyung’s known it for a long time now, but he’s been proven right every single day.

So now, lying in Taehyung’s bed, in their nest, the omega knows what he needs to do.

“Jeonggukie,” he starts softly, interrupting the alpha’s rumble over how cute and tiny Nari’s socks are. “Do you remember, some time after we started courting, you said that it’s my decision how much you’re gonna be involved when bunny’s born?”

His boyfriend freezes instantly and all sweet ministrations of his hand are put to a halt in a second. Taehyung stifles a laugh, because he knew his silly alpha was going to panic, immediately imagining the worst, even though Taehyung’s so hopelessly in love with him. Even though they are so hopelessly in love with each other.

“I… do? Tae? What’s going on?”

“Well… I know you really want to be with us and everything,” the omega continues with a sigh and Jeongguk props himself up on his forearm. “But I don’t know how you imagine that…”

“I don’t understand…”

“I mean, we have four nests right now. Four nests! That’s a bit much and I don’t think it’s good for a baby.”

Of course it’s bullshit. Babies don’t care how many nests there are as long as they smell like their parents. But Taehyung knows Jeongguk is too confused and stressed to realise that at the moment.

“I- I- I- What?”

The omega turns so he can look into his boyfriend's eyes. “I think it would be good to have just two nests. And there are four: two here and two in your place.”

He can see the colours draining from Jeongguk’s face. “Tae-”

“And if you want, and I assume you do, to be a full time parent, I think we should move in together, so we don’t need nests in two separate apartments.”

There’s a deafening silence, during which Taehyung tries to hold back a laugh and he almost can see how the cogs in the alpha’s head turn very fast, trying to process what he just heard.

“Baby,” Jeongguk finally whines and collapses back on bed, burrowing his face in Taehyung’s neck, while the writer cackles happily. “You are so mean to me. I was really nervous for a moment there.”

“I know, sweetheart. It was so funny to watch.”

“Meanie…”

“But seriously tough,” Taehyung clears his throat and looks at his boyfriend with an enquiring gaze. “What do you think?”

“About moving in together?” The alpha makes sure and when the writer nods, he smiles tenderly and pulls his boyfriend closer to himself. “I mean, we basically live together already. So I guess we could do it.”

“That sounds so bad! Like I was making you do this.”

“Just teasing, pup,” Jeongguk nuzzles his nose against Taehyung’s scent gland and leaves a soft kiss right next to it. “I’d love to live with you and our sweet girl.”

“Good,” the omega breathes out, slightly relieved. It’s not like Taehyung expected his boyfriend to refuse but it’s still better to hear the confirmation out loud. And it makes him giddy. “When are we going to do this?”

Jeongguk laughs loudly. “For sure not now, it’s the middle of the night, pup and I have a lot of things to pack. Because we’re going to live here, right? Bunny’s nursery is ready here and it would take too much time to set up a new one in my apartment.” Before Taehyung can even somehow comment on this, the alpha goes on with his musings. “But now that I’m thinking about it, maybe I would be able to buy a house for us before bunny is born. Yugyeom always says that if any of us wants to get a house he will find us the best deal, he is great at finding hidden gems among his company’s offers. Or hey, do you think it would be possible to merge our apartments? Mine is directly above yours, so a stairway could do the trick and-”

“Gukkie,” Taehyung sighs and presses his forefinger against his boyfriend’s mouth, looking at him with heart eyes. “I think this apartment will be enough for now. And we can think about something bigger when we start planning to grow our family.”

Jeongguk groans and presses his hips against Taehyung’s thigh. “Don’t talk dirty to me, I wish I could put another pup in you already.”

“Talk dirty?” Taehyung laughs incredulously. “Is talking about family stuff making you horny?”

“More like talking about making our family bigger is making me horny. I think I might have a bit of a breeding kink.”

“You don’t say,” the omega lets out a happy giggle, which dies in his throat as soon as Jeongguk’s hand cups him through his sleeping pants. “You know that you can’t pup me again before this one gets out? I can’t get more pregnant.”

“Hmmm, are you sure?”

“Pretty sure.”

“Well, I’d like to test that theory.”

The next day afternoon and evening they spend in Jeongguk’s apartment, packing and discussing how they are going to organise their new, shared living space. It is clear that not everything from the alpha’s flat is going to fit in Taehyung’s, but Jeongguk doesn't mind. Taehyung’s spare bedroom is going to be turned into Jeongguk’s study, which is going to serve as a study, home gym and a storage room for all his sports equipment. Considering the high hazard of the room, they agreed it is going to be locked at all times, to prevent their daughter from getting hurt.

Everything else that Jeongguk won’t be able to take with him he’s going to either drive to Busan to his parents, so he can get them back when at some point they get a bigger place, or get rid of them. Now that he is not indulging in as many adventures as he used to, he doesn’t use a lot of things that only take up space. He will probably try to sell some or give away to his friends.

That evening though they mostly focus on the things that are necessary to move downstairs. Some things they are able to transport right away. Taehyung laughs his ass off, lying on the bed and watching the alpha take the entire rack of hangers with clothes into his arms and just walk with them out of the apartment to place them in Taehyung’s- no, their closet. The writer finally shakes his head and gets back to moving things from the chest of drawers into a suitcase.

Thankfully, Jeongguk isn’t much of a hoarder, so they are able to pack the whole bedroom, with a small break, when they discover a forgotten box of sex toys Jeongguk had stuffed between some shoe boxes. Apparently, those were gifts from his alpha squad after his most recent break up. His friends wanted to make him laugh, getting him the whole array of toys, some of them quite weird but also a few classic ones like a prostate massager, which the couple immediately put into use. It was a nice way to say goodbye to the alpha’s nest.

The omega cries a little when they dismantle the said nest after their steamy shenanigans. They share a lot of fond memories with it, starting with their first time occurring right there and Taehyung still remembers the overwhelming fondness that flooded his entire body when he found out that Jeongguk even has a nest, as simple as it used to be. Even better discovery, when Taehyung found his own jumper being a part of it.

Jeongguk holds his boyfriend throughout the entirety of his small breakdown, whispering sweet nothings into unconsoled omega’s ears, assuring him how much more he loves their current nest downstairs and how he can’t wait to sleep in it again tonight.

It helps after some time and they decide that it’s enough of packing for a day and they’re going to continue tomorrow and on Sunday. When they lie in their bedroom at night, Taehyung feels embarrassed for his outburst.

“Nari, tell your appa that he’s being silly,” Jeongguk says against the baby bump, looking up at the omega playfully. “A lot of important things happened in that nest but this one is so much better, yeah? You have your little burrow here, it’s perfectly crafted for the three of us and it’s in our home, right, sweet girl? Your appa is just a bit dramatic from all the feelings you bring to him.”

Taehyung pouts at the cute words and his heart squeezes a little. Jeongguk is always so understanding of his random mood swings and he always makes sure to reassure him that it’s fine, that it’s a normal part of pregnancy. He jokes that his body just doesn’t know what to do with all the love their daughter makes him feel.

“Imagine how much he’s going to cry when we move from here and we’ll have to disassemble this one,” the alpha continues, his hand gently stroking the spot Nari’s kicked just a moment before. “One day we will get you a sibling or two and this apartment is going to be too small for all of us. I will buy us a big house, with room for each one of you little rascals and a huge backyard so your appa can have those bunnies he wants so much. Imagine Bam chasing after them! Poor bunnies, we will have to protect them, yeah? And Tannie will probably be barely bigger than them. Oh! I totally forgot, I read somewhere that right now, this week you should be the size of a lop rabbit!” Jeongguk coos and peppers the bump with kisses. 

“I don’t know which one, there are apparently a lot of breeds with drooping ears but how cute is that?” The alpha continues with tender caresses. “Our bunny is the size of a bunny. And what are your thoughts on cats, hmm? I’m not the biggest fan, to be honest. They are cute of course but I’ve always been more of a dog person myself. But we already have two dogs and will have bunnies so why stop at that? We’ll get your appa a nice study so he can write his books in peace with a cat on his lap while we’ll be messing around, maybe in the swimming pool? Or a playground? Would you like a tree house? I’m sure Yoongi hyung and all your other uncles will help with building a whole tree village for you and…”

Taehyung listens to Jeongguk’s endless babbling to their unborn daughter and he can’t help but get emotional again. Their family time became his favourite parts of the day and listening to all the plans his boyfriend makes for their growing family makes him feel so safe and loved. Sometimes he wonders if it’s just a too beautiful dream he’s going to wake up from at any moment. But every morning he wakes up and Jeongguk is right there, next to him, Nari is still growing in his belly, every day getting them closer and closer to have her in their arms.

At some point of his rambling the alpha looks up and for sure he can see the tears at the brim of Taehyung’s eyes, but he only smiles in understanding. He’s probably just as emotional thinking about the life awaiting them in the future.

Because what a beautiful life that is gonna be.

Chapter Text

Another week, another task to do. After the memorable incident during Felix’s baby shower when Susanna went into a spontaneous labour, way before her due date, Taehyung truly understood the necessity of having your hospital bag packed in advance and taking it with you everywhere. He can’t imagine the panic that would for sure only increase if before the hospital they had to go to the Kim’s household to pack all the essential items. The omega can’t imagine poor, stressed Woosung suddenly putting together a bag for his mate. That would be a disaster.

So when the 34th week started, Taehyung neatly packed everything that his friends deemed absolutely must-haves. Both Felix and Vicky gave him some useful tips, how to modify the list he previously made based on Internet recommendations.

On the very top of the bag, there is a brand new pyjamas and robe, another courting gift from his Alpha. Taehyung smiles and caresses the soft material before closing the bag and taking it to the entry hall.

Jeongguk’s been even more terrified than him, perfectly remembering the story of Susanna and Woosung and the closer they get to their own due date, the alpha gets more and more anxious. The parenting books are piling on Jeongguk’s bedside table and Taehyung more than once woke up in the middle of the night and caught his boyfriend reading - barely awake and with glasses slid down to the tip of his button nose, on the verge of falling into his lap.

It’s sweet, the omega can’t and won’t deny it, another proof how serious Jeongguk is about the role he's going to take soon, but he would still prefer his boyfriend to do his research at normal waking hours.

The problem is that the alpha spends most of the time after work in his old apartment, dividing his belongings with the biggest focus on the ones that are going to be temporarily moved to his parents house, as they are going to visit the Jeons on the weekend.

Yes, Taehyung is going to meet Jeongguk’s dads and that scares him more than the prospect of pushing a whole baby out of himself.

Jeongguk took two days off and they are going to leave for Busan right after the prenatal visit on Thursday. The alpha’s been overly excited about the trip and finally introducing Taehyung to his fathers but as far as the omega can’t wait to meet the men who raised his amazing boyfriend, he’s also terrified.

Their love story isn’t exactly the traditional one and even though Jeongguk assured him multiple times that his dads are ok with everything and just can’t wait to meet their son’s omega, Taehyung can’t stop the anxiety creeping up on him. Because how are the Jeon’s supposed to not be disappointed? Instead of meeting a nice omega, courting them, mating and having pups, Jeongguk got himself an omega who is not enough even for his own parents.

Taehyung doesn’t share his thoughts with his boyfriend. He knows that he is worrying completely unnecessarily but he can’t help it and he doesn’t want to spoil Jeongguk’s mood. The alpha is very excited about visiting his parents, especially because of introducing Taehyung to them. It’s funny how their feelings about the same matter are totally different.

“Hey, are you okay?”

Taehyung jumps a little, when Jeongguk’s hand finds its usual place on his thigh. The omega didn’t even notice when they started driving again after picking up their puppies from home.

“Yes, of course.” He smiles, or tries to, even though all the muscles in his face are highly uncooperative.

“Were you nervous because of the check up?”

“No, no. I know Nari is perfectly fine, it’s just a routine at this point.”

“What is it then?” Jeongguk inquires, mindlessly running tiny circles with his thumb on Taehyung’s skin, unaware how much the little gesture soothes the omega.

“I-” Taehyung hesitates. He didn’t want to say anything but right now, sitting in a car while every passing minute brings him closer to his doom, he desperately needs his boyfriend and some reassurance. “I’m really worried about this trip.”

“What? Why?” Jeongguk throws him a quick glance but immediately focuses back on the road. “We are not in a rush, if you feel uncomfortable we can always stop. I know our little girl doesn’t make it exactly easier.”

The alpha moves his hand so his knuckles can caress the baby bump lovingly, and Taehyung’s heart swells with fondness a tiny bit more.

“I’m scared of meeting your dads,” he whispers finally.

Jeongguk doesn’t say anything for a few moments, pondering over the confession and finally nods his head slowly.

“Meeting a partner's parents might be scary. But I told them so much about you, they are already halfway in love with you, you have nothing to worry about.” When Taehyung doesn’t react, the alpha grabs his hand. “Talk to me, pup.”

“It’s just… You could have any omega, they would throw themselves to your feet just so you looked at them for a second-”

“That’s awfully exaggerated. Definitely untrue.”

“-and yet you are with me. An omega who was rejected by his own parents and couldn’t even find a man to have a baby with, so had to do it on his own, from a syringe. I am not exactly a dream partner for anyone’s beloved son.”

Once again the car falls into silence. Taehyung is a bit scared but risks a look at his boyfriend and finds him frowning and nibbling on his lip rings. It would scare him more, but they are still holding hands and the alpha’s grip doesn’t loosen a bit.

“Tae, pup… I understand where you’re coming from, or at least I try to understand. We didn’t talk much about your parents and your relationship with them or more so the lack of it but I know enough to know they are the ones that should feel bad about themselves, not you. Never you. Sweetheart, you are a wonderful person and I couldn’t imagine a better partner or a father for my pups, you know that, right?”

“I know,” Taehyung says quietly. “And I don’t doubt you or your feelings, that’s not it. It’s just… parents want only the best for their children. That you understand for sure, we both want that for our bunny.”

“Of course.”

“So, you can also imagine that I am not a picture perfect mate for someone’s son.”

“I can’t, actually,” Jeongguk denies and tightens his hold on the omega’s hand. “My dads don’t care about all that. Or they do, my dad will probably smother you with even more affection, you’re gonna be sick of him by the end of the weekend. I told them a bit about your situation. They wanted to invite your parents as well, so I had to explain why it’s not gonna happen. They were only worried about you and my dad was relieved that you have a pack, so you were not alone before we met.”

The alpha brings their hands to his lips and kisses every one of Taehyung’s fingers.

“As for the other thing, I don’t get why you see it as a bad thing. I also didn’t have any successful relationships before you and didn’t have a pup. You are the first who wanted babies with my guys.”

“But that’s different.”

“No, it’s not. Just because you are an omega doesn’t make it any different. You haven’t had an alpha because you haven’t met me before, period. And you wanted bunny so much, you did everything you could to have her. She was so loved even before she was put in your belly, the most longed-for pup and you are so brave to decide to do it on your own. In my opinion and also my dads’. And they didn’t tell me that just because we are together. They said that after I told them about our meeting, long before we became a thing.”

Taehyung pouts and looks at his lap. The alpha’s little speech made him feel much better already and he has to admit that when the whole thing is put this way it really sounds silly to be insecure about it. He’s never been ashamed of the way he got pregnant and the times he mourned over his dead bond with his parents were long gone.

It doesn't mean his fears are completely put to sleep, but his mood is significantly improved. Jeongguk always knows how to calm him down, and keeps proving it being right when he continues talking.

“Have I told you why I was in the mall that day we met?”

He then proceeds to tell him an overly dramatic story about evil kitchen appliances and the threat they are to society. Taehyung is brought to tears when his silly boyfriend gets so exasperated, retelling the horrors of buying a microwave he didn’t even want, just to give it away to his ex after they broke up.

The alpha makes sure that the mood in a car doesn’t sour for the rest of the ride.

“Jeonggukie!”

Taehyung can’t help but smile broadly when he gets out of the car to the sight of a short man gathering his big, buff alpha into his arms.

“Hi, dad,” Jeongguk chuckles and indulges his omega father, folding himself into his embrace. “You missed me?”

“I always miss you,” Jiwon leans back and cradles his son’s face between his hands, sporting a bunny smile Taehyung knows so well. “You look healthy. Love serves you well, my baby.”

“Dad,” the alpha groans and scrunches his nose after it’s booped.

“You are my baby and always will be. You will understand soon when you become a parent yourself.”

The man then looks to the side and his eyes finally land on the pregnant omega. Taehyung shifts his weight from one foot to another, an uncomfortable feeling growing in him with a speed of light.

“Taehyung-ah, you are just glowing, come here my dear!”

And the next moment he is pulled into a tight hug bye the older omega, that effectively pushes breath out of him.

“Good afternoon, sir,” he squeaks out, his wide eyes meeting Jeongguk’s fond gaze.

“Aish, don’t call me ‘sir’, sweetheart. We are a family, call me ‘dad’ and I don’t want to hear any objections,” Jiwon tuts in his ear and Jeongguk mouths “I told you” to him with a happy wink.

“I-”

“Come, come, the dinner is ready and waiting. Jeonggukie, take your bags and bring them home, Taehyung-ah must be tired after all that drive and he can’t carry anything. Are you sleepy, my dear? Your room is also ready, so you can take a shower and take a nap after a meal. Oh! I made kimchi with that romaine lettuce Jeonggukie told me about. I can’t believe Nari is this big already and-”

The older omega keeps babbling while pulling shocked Taehyung inside the house, leaving his quietly laughing son outside. He lets go of Taehyung long enough for him to take off his shoes but then immediately leads him to the dining room, where the whole feast is already served on the table.

Taehyung looks at the food with wide eyes, recognising all of his and Jeongguk’s favourites, with copious amounts of kimchi placed in several places between the dishes.

Wow, that explains that first dinner Jeongguk invited Taehyung for in his apartment. He clearly learnt a thing or two from his dad.

“Jagiya! They are here! Alphas,” Jiwon shakes his head disapprovingly. “I swear, my dear, sometimes life is hard with them. Maybe those progressive omegas who have relationships with each other have all their marbles. There you are! Look at him, our Jeonggukie couldn’t get more lucky, don’t you think?”

Taehyung’s heart skips a beat when a tall, well built man with a serious face enters the room. The whole place immediately gets engulfed by a tranquil scent of a forest and when the alpha’s eyes finally land on him, the stern expression turns into a small smile.

“Hello, Taehyung-ssi. It’s really nice to finally meet you after hearing so much from Jeongguk-ah,” Junseo greets, bowing slightly which Taehyung quickly reciprocates. 

“No, no, don’t strain yourself, honey.” The older omega assists him to straighten up.

“I’m sorry for my mate, I can see that he has already started smothering you. You could’ve waited at least for after dinner, yeobo. You’re going to scare him and we don’t want that.”

Even though his tone is slightly reprimanding, Taehyung can see the pure fondness and adoration in the alpha’s eyes. The omega remembers from his boyfriend’s mentions that his appa courted his dad, because both him and his wolf knew that that’s the omega for them and it’s clear that years of being together didn’t do anything to their feelings. It’s sweet to see and for a second the writer wonders if this is how he and Jeongguk are going to look at each other in a few decades.

His beloved joins them right then and the emotions swimming in his eyes when their looks meet make Taehyung believe that yes, this is their future as well.

“I let the dogs run in the backyard. Dad, let Tae breathe,” he scolds playfully. “He brought you flowers and you didn’t even let him grab them from the car.”

The omega gasps and quickly snatches them from Jeongguk’s hands.

“I forgot! Thank you, Gukkie. And thank you so much, for having me here,” Taehyung bows and when he hands the bouquet to Jiwon, he’s once again pulled into a warm hug.

“You are too precious, Jeonggukie was right. You don’t have to thank us for anything, we love having you here and finally meeting you. But please! Sit down and eat, you must be starving after this long trip. Jeonggukie, be the gentleman I raised, and prepare a nice plate for Taehyungie. Don’t miss the japchae over there! And while you’re at it, tell me how today's check up was. Do you have a new photo of my granddaughter for me? We have all of them on the fridge door and I’m going to frame this one in the living room! Tell me-”

It goes on like this for the whole dinner. It seems like Jeongguk’s dad is a bit of a talker and at the beginning he doesn’t even let them speak, not caring that he’s bombarding them with questions that go unanswered. It must be an ordinary occurrence as none of the Jeon alphas react to it, just waiting for the excitement to pass and indeed, soon the tireless monologue turns into an actual conversation.

And Taehyung is enchanted. The whole atmosphere is so different from anything he remembers from his own childhood home. It is a bit hard to grasp that the family dinner can look like this. Once Jiwon’s emotions calm down, Junseo gets more talkative and jokes around with his son, prompting two bunny smiles to appear in reaction to his antics. The older omega keeps adding food on Jeongguk’s plate when he is engrossed in another story about Nari’s development. He also makes sure that Taehyung doesn’t run out of kimchi and it’s so sweet, the writer doesn’t have a heart to refuse, even though he feels like his stomach is about to burst. 

The three Jeons are such a delight to listen to, Taehyung would not feel any need to engage in the conversation, but it’s not possible when both fathers seem to be very eager to get to know more about him, even though it looks like they have already heard everything what was there to hear from their son.

It is a bit overwhelming, the amount of love that surrounds him, a lot of it directed at him, especially from Jeongguk and his dad, his appa a bit more reserved, perhaps trying to elevate his overly enthusiastic mate, but Taehyung’s so relieved. All his previous fears are gone and it must be visible on his face because Jeongguk keeps sending him winks and knowing smiles from across the table, sometimes caressing Taehyung’s calf with his bare foot. As if he hated them to be separated even for this short while and he was seeking any kind of physical contact to make sure Taehyung is doing okay.

When Jeongguk for the tenth time assures his dad that they really are not able to eat a single rice grain more, Jiwon finally lets them leave the table and ushers the three to the living room so they can continue the conversation over there while he cleans up after the meal.

Taehyung lingers back enough for the alphas to disappear behind the door and turns around to the older omega who’s already started to collect the dirty plates.

“Mr Jeon, please let me help you.” 

He quickly grabs the nearest pot with kimchi, before it can be snatched away from under his nose.

“What did I tell you about addressing me, honey?” Jiwon sends him a playfully stern look.

“Sorry… dad.” 

The word feels so foreign on Taehyung’s tongue. It’s not like he doesn’t use it, of course he does, since he got pregnant it became a permanent addition to his everyday vocabulary, but this… this meaning is almost new to him. He hasn’t called anyone ‘dad’ in such a way in years and his heart clenches a bit from a blast of emotions.

“That’s better. But really, there’s no need to help me, sweetie. I will be quick and join you in the living room in no time. You go relax, my boy.”

“I insist, please.”

“Okay, then. Follow me.”

They work in silence for a few minutes, putting leftovers in containers, broken from time to time by Jiwon trying to coax Taehyung into eating some more. It’s peaceful, a total contrary of the vigorous dinner they’ve just shared and the omega loves this domesticity too.

He is rinsing another plate, before passing it to Mr Jeon, so he can place it in the dishwasher, when the older omega finally speaks up.

“I hope we did not suffocate you with our enthusiasm. Or more like I didn’t. Junseo lectured me before your visit but I just couldn’t help myself.”

“No, no, don’t worry. I really loved it. To be honest, I didn’t expect such a warm welcome,” Taehyung admits timidly.

“Why not? Jeonggukie is so happy with you, of course we are over the moon to have you here. And besides that, you are just a delight to be around, my dear.”

It’s a bit weird to talk about it with his boyfriend’s dad but the man made him feel so welcomed and accepted, that he decided to open up and share his concerns.

“Are you sure you are ok with this? Don’t you think it’s all going so fast?” he whispers. “Me and Jeongguk met just a few months ago and…”

“Taehyung-ah,” Mr Jeon smiles softly and takes the writer’s hands in his. “It might sound very cliche but I am of the opinion that if you know, you know. I learnt it from my mate, who decided to court me very shortly after our first meeting. I was a bit sceptical at first because how could he be so confident, so early in our relationship but look where we are over thirty years later and still counting. And my son is just like his father, always so sure of his feelings. So when he called us to announce that he decided to court you, we didn’t even think of questioning him. The wolves of these two are really smart, even though their humans sometimes don’t look like it.” The older omega smiles teasingly. “It also didn’t hurt that I had a feeling it’s gonna happen sooner or later after his first call that he met a mysterious, pregnant omega in the mall.”

Taehyung gasps when he hears that. “But he was in a relationship back then!”

“Oh please,” Mr Jeon scoffs and waves his hand dismissively. “It is not a real relationship unless he brings his partner here to Busan. My son can say whatever he wants but I know him well enough.”

“That’s… I don’t know what to say.”

“You don’t have to say anything, sweetie. You will understand soon, when your little girl grows to be a young lady and starts dating. Us fathers know our children and we have an intuition for such things. So when Jeonggukie told us about you and I got a hunch, I knew you would not become a one time meeting in the shopping centre. And believe me, my son would fall for you even if you were not pregnant.”

The man winks and pulls the writer into a tight embrace, not caring that both of them have wet hands from handling the dishes. The relief Taehyung feels is incomparable with anything he felt in a really long time. He’s never thought how much Jeongguk’s parents’ approval would mean to him and while he has this conversation only with his omega father, he is positive that his alpha father’s thoughts are exactly the same as his mate’s. 

“The most important thing for any parent is for their kids to be loved,” Mr Jeon continues in a whisper, caressing Taehyung’s hair. “I spent barely two hours with you and I can already see that you truly love my son. This is all I could ask for and it doesn’t matter if you met four months ago, two years ago or last week. Remember, if you know, you know.”

And it is impossible to not know when Taehyung’s boyfriend is Jeongguk. When the two omegas finally join the duo in the living room, a small nest is already prepared for Taehyung on the chaise longue of the couch. He had no idea how much he needed it until he saw it there, waiting for him and he almost cried with happiness.

When Mr Jeon let the dogs in and gave them a fair share of affection, both dogs made themselves comfortable at Taehyung’s legs, not before Bam sniffed around a baby bump to make sure nothing bad happened during his absence.

They spend the evening talking more and Taehyung is pretty sure he takes a few short naps but the Jeons don’t seem to mind. The omega just feels so drained after the drive and all the emotions, that he can’t help himself when his eyes start getting heavy and he decides to let them rest for a bit. With Jeongguk’s arm wrapped securely around his shoulders it is a rather easy recipe for sleep.

He effectively wakes up when bunny suddenly gets very active, as if she’s been waiting for all the excitement to cool down, so she can announce her presence. She gives a good demonstration of her kicking skills and Jiwon is absolutely thrilled, talking to his granddaughter for the first time and, just like them, pointing out her promising prowess in martial arts.

Junseo is a bit more composed, always mindful of Taehyung’s boundaries and careful to not cross them even by accident, but when the writer encourages him to feel her too, he doesn’t even hesitate. And of course Nari, always ready to wrap another alpha around her little finger, immediately kicks the touched spot and Taehyung can clearly see how the older alpha goes all soft. The man is obviously floored and the loving caresses remind the omega a bit of Jeongguk’s hesitating touches when he touched the bump for the first time. It feels like a lifetime has passed since then, as currently the couple can’t imagine their day to go without their family time.

And because they haven’t done it that day yet, when they reach their bedroom, they quickly take turns to take a shower, so they can get to it as soon as possible. Taehyung finishes building a nest right on time for Jeongguk to come back to the room and they scent each other and talk to their daughter in a soft whisper until the three of them fall asleep.

The rest of the week passes in the same loving, slightly chaotic but nonetheless peaceful way. Jeongguk’s dad keeps feeding them all day long and Taehyung spends long hours talking with him about taking care of a newborn, the older omega happy to share his experience of raising a baby. The two go through probably all the photo albums there are in the house and even though Jeongguk whines a bit, claiming he had a looser phase in middle school, he joins them most of the time and the two Jeons entertain Taehyung with many family stories. And when Taehyung tells his version of getting together with Jeongguk he realises that now it became one of those as well.

Jiwon even asks Taehyung to sign his copies of Taehyung’s book and the gesture is so unexpected, as Jeongguk never told the writer that his dad was a fan, the omega breaks down crying a bit. His boyfriend looks both concerned and endeared when they nest and scent each other in their bed for a good half an hour before Taehyung is ready to go back downstairs.

Jeongguk’s appa gets more and more relaxed, the nerves of making Taehyung uncomfortable melting away steadily and on Saturday afternoon a bit reserved man of the house gives way to a dorky, playful alpha. He joins his mate in gushing over their granddaughter, eagerly places his hands on Taehyung’s belly when Nari demands attention with very punctated kicks and punches. If he doesn’t help his mate in the kitchen or doing something in the house, he fools around with the two dogs in the backyard, stopping from time to time to have a sip of beer and continue a conversation with his son. The man turns out to be an absolute sweetheart and the writer now fully understands where his boyfriend got his charms from and why his omega father’s eyes still sparkle whenever he looks at his husband.

Jeon Alphas have something about them that just makes it impossible to not fall for them.

They also manage to visit a beach a few times, sometimes alone, sometimes with Jeongguk’s dads and Taehyung just loves it. It’s been way too long since he’s seen a sea and he promises himself that when Nari's born, they’re gonna visit Busan more often. He sees a new side of his boyfriend that the water brings up, so playful and carefree, and he wants their daughter to love the sea just as much. He wants her to know her roots and have a strong bond with her grandparents. He wants her to have a family he wasn’t lucky enough to have when he was a pup. 

But he has now. And his heart grows when he sees appa and son wrestling on the sand, when Bam jumps at them in excitement and Yeontan runs around and barks furiously, when Jiwon scolds the duo to be careful, when they get within two metres from Taehyung, and then continues to offer the writer an arrange of fruits packed in food containers.

The omega keeps caressing his baby bump, smiling and laughing, going for a quick swim from time to time to cool down, strong arms always securely wrapped around him, and he can’t wait for the next visit, as bunny will already be with them by then.

She’ll probably be way too small to play in the sand yet, or maybe it will be too cold for that if they come when the summer ends, but next summer… Taehyung can already envision Jeongguk dipping her tiny feet in the water, their happy squeals and bunny smiles, when the wave comes and splashes around. Grandpa Junseo will for sure build the greatest sandcastles for his little princess, maybe even grander than the ones he built for Jeongguk that Taehyung’s seen in the photos. And her cheeks will probably get a bit chubbier during their visit, as the omega already knows that Jiwon’s love language is feeding the ones close to his heart.

When Sunday comes, Taehyung is truly sad that they need to go back to Seoul. He would love to stay a bit more in the South, go to the beach during the day and chill in the garden in the evening with three Jeons, playing Uno and engaging in endless conversations, as the trio never runs out of topics.

“Oh, my baby, I’m going to miss you so much,” Jiwon sniffs softly, hugging his only son and squeezing him in a tight embrace.

“I’m going to miss you too, dad. We will visit you again as soon as we can, though it might take a while now.”

“Oh please, we are coming to Seoul as soon as bunny is born,” the omega scoffs and releases Jeongguk just to move with his affections to Taehyung. “We loved having you here, I hope you’re going to join Jeonggukie on every visit from now on.”

“Of course. Thank you so much for everything,” Taehyung smiles and tightens his hold on Mr Jeon for a few seconds before he lets go. He turns to Junseo and the alpha is already waiting for him with his arms wide open. 

It takes them forever to say their goodbyes and after the last caresses for Nari, Jeongguk and Taehyung finally get in the car. They wave at the Jeons until they disappear from their sight.

“So, what's the verdict? Was it as scary as you expected?” Jeongguk grins and grabs the omega’s hand.

Taehyung looks at him and smiles softly. His boyfriend looks much more relaxed than in the last couple of days, when he was stressing himself out that the labour could start any second and he kept checking if the hospital bag is properly packed at least once a day. The long weekend in Busan showed the omega that Jeongguk was showered with love, pampered and adored since he was born and while it could have spoiled him terribly, with such role models like his fathers, there’s no wonder he grew into the kindest, sweetest soul.

The Jeon couple have so much love in them, that Taehyung thinks he experienced more parental care and affection during this one visit than during all his life from his own parents.

“Babe?”

The omega flinches a bit, snapping out of his reverie. “Sorry, I got lost in thoughts.”

“I noticed,” Jeongguk smiles fondly and brings their joined hands to his lips to leave a few short pecks on Taehyung’s knuckles. “Everything all right?”

“Yes, of course. Your dads are amazing, truly. I love them.”

“And they love you, too. I think you became their new favourite,” the alpha jokes and Taehyung just snorts at the ridiculous suggestion.

“Please, you are their forever baby love. I could never come close.”

“Nah, I think I’m right. I’m not blaming them though. You are my favourite, too.”

The boyish grin he sends Taehyung’s way, melts the omega once again. His boyfriend is not good for his poor heart.

“And I told you they don’t care about how we met. You saw how hilarious they find it and that my dad just puts everything on fate, destiny and his own hunch.” The alpha shakes his head in a pretended exasperation. “Thank Goddess, he wasn’t the one who advised me to donate my guys or he would for sure strut around claiming it is all thanks to him.”

Taehyung giggles and rests his head against the headrest and stares at the alpha with a small smile on his face. There’s one more thing that’s been bugging him for some time and the reminiscent of their beginning on the weekend just made him think about it more and more.

“Gukkie?”

“Yes, pup?”

“How would you react, if I asked you to consider withdrawing your consent to use your guys?” He asks carefully.

It’s something that’s been bothering Taehyung more the longer they were together. He remembers how Jeongguk declined when his ex-girlfriend made such a request but he likes to believe that their relationship is way different than the alpha’s previous one. They’re courting, they’ve moved in together and even talk about their second pup and how they are going to conceive them. Sometimes it's a bit in a teasing manner but they both know how serious they are about their relationship and their future.

And while Taehyung loves the fact that Jeongguk wanted to help people who for whatever reasons can’t have children on their own, the thought of another omega now bearing his child just doesn’t sit right with him nor his wolf. Of course, if such babies were already born, there is nothing he could do and he would just have to accept it. But it was to happen right now, when they’ve become a family, it just feels wrong.

So he’s slightly nervous while he waits for his boyfriend’s answer but he had to ask, otherwise it would eat him alive.

“Then I would say,” Jeongguk starts and Taehyung holds his breath. “That I’ve already done it the day after you asked for my scented clothes for your nest.”

“What?” The omega breathes out in shock. He didn’t imagine such a response in any of the scenarios that he created in his head of how this conversation might go.

“Yup,” he smiles and shoots Taehyung a quick glance. “I could feel that my life is gonna change from then on and when I thought of us being together, I realised that I want you to be the only father of my pups. I mean, those other kids wouldn’t be my kids, but you know what I mean.”

“I do,” Taehyung whispers, squeezing Jeongguk’s fingers. “Wow, I- I did not expect that.”

The alpha smiles and once again lifts their hands so he can kiss Taehyung’s knuckles.

“I also asked how many times my sperm was used,” he continues and after a few seconds of tense silence, he winks at Taehyung with a smirk. “Apparently only one person was interested in a baby with a bunny smile.”

“Tasteless people,” the writer rolls his eyes but inside he’s euphoric. “Thank you, love.”

“No need to thank me, pup. My donation brought one miracle and I will be forever grateful I did it, but me and my alpha also feel that this one miracle is enough. Besides, there are still many other donors to choose from. And if you ask me, if for so many years only you bet on me, I think my dad might be onto something with that fate thing.”

“Yeah,” the omega whispers. “He might be.”

And Taehyung will be just as forever grateful.

Chapter Text

August started with a swiss chard week and a heat wave in Seoul. The temperatures were impossibly high, to the point that Jeongguk’s company temporarily switched to the full remote work, so their employees do not have to commute to the office. 

So the couple spends most of the time in the living room where the AC is installed, Jeongguk often joining Taehyung during his nesting time, which gets progressively longer with each day that brings them closer to Nari’s arrival. The omega tries to work on his book, there are still some things that need to be improved before the print but the temperatures do not allow him to think properly.

And even though heavily pregnant, just entered the last month, Taehyung still withstands the heat the easiest out of four of them. Jeongguk, Yeontan and Bam are practically melting 24/7, the two dogs pant heavily all day and rarely move from their cooling mats and Taehyung can’t remember when was the last time he saw his boyfriend in anything more than boxers. He doesn’t count those seconds before Jeongguk leaves with dogs for their short walks. The t-shirt is on right when the door opens on his way out and immediately off before they even close when he comes back.

He doesn’t complain of course. The vast plains of bare skin, covered in tattoos and dripping with sweat - Jeongguk makes it really hard for Taehyung to not jump his bones every time he sees him.

Taehyung doesn’t even join his classes that week, he tries to do some home yoga but most of the time he chooses to be lazy. He’s growing a life inside of him, he deserves some rest.

His pack chat is blasting more than ever, his three friends stay at home working remotely, just like Jeongguk, and Yoongi hyung is clearly done with the other two. He also complains a lot about not being able to deliver any food to Taehyung, not caring that Jeongguk is making sure he eats properly.

“As long as I am your head alpha, I will always worry about you and take care of you.”

None of them mentions that he’s going to be Taehyung’s head alpha forever.

Jimin and Hoseok surprisingly stand the temperatures quite well, probably because they went crazy with a baby shower fever, if such a thing exists. Taehyung’s been begging them to leave him alone and not organise anything but apparently the future appa has nothing to say in his own baby shower party.

They are going to celebrate on the weekend in the pack house, as the weather is supposed to cool down by then. Though it’s hard to believe when on Thursday night Taehyung is lying in bed on a verge of crying and Jeongguk tries to soothe him with contactless scenting (which of course doesn’t really help and only makes the omega more sad and in need of cuddles).

“I hate this weather, I am dying, Gukkie,” he sobs dramatically and spreads out like a starfish in the nest. He will have to turn on a side soon as he can already feel that breathing is becoming harder in this position, but he wants to enjoy for a second none of his body parts being in touch with another one.

“I know, pup, I’m sorry. I would hug you but I’m afraid you’d strangle me for all that body heat.”

“I don’t know how long I can live like this. I need to nest, I want cuddles and love and affection but in this hell any skin-to-skin contact is killing me.”

“I miss our family time,” Jeongguk sighs and shimmies down to nuzzle the baby bump delicately. “I know we still talk every day, but it’s not the same without proper cuddling, right baby? Daddy misses you and your appa so much.”

“Why do you always have to be so sweet and make everything even harder?” Taehyung whines and finally moves to the side, just to yelp in surprise when Jeongguk sticks out his tongue and licks his belly button. “Gukkie!”

“Couldn't help myself.” The alpha grins with a mischievous grin and makes himself comfortable, facing Taehyung properly. “I read that the storm’s going to start in the morning, so hopefully this is the last night like this.”

“I hope so…” The writer sighs and puts his hand between them. “I love you.”

“I love you, my sweet pup.”

Jeongguk links their pinkies together, lately the only contact both of them can stand during the night, and with hopes for better tomorrow they drift off to sleep.

The storm indeed comes in the morning and lasts until the early afternoon, bringing fresh air and relief after the heatwave. Taehyung finally joins his boyfriend and their two dogs on the evening walk and even the sore feet are not able to spoil his happiness. That night the couple finally cuddles to sleep, Jeongguk going almost feral at being allowed to properly scent Taehyung again. It was just not the same without a proper amount of snuggling. Nari also receives a fair share of love from her father to make up for the last couple days and Taehyung is so content in their family nest, he doesn’t even remember falling asleep.

There are storms which Taehyung welcomes with open arms and there are storms he wishes he could avoid.

“Can we please not go?” The omega whines for at least a fourth time that day.

“It’s a bit too late now, love,” Jeongguk smiles apologetically. “All guests are probably on their way already. And your friends really worked hard to make it perfect.”

“I am pregnant, it should be me who decides if there is a baby shower or not,” he grumbles, opening the car door, unhappy with not being supported. “You are my boyfriend, you are supposed to be on my side.”

“I am on your side,” the alpha insists, getting inside the car. He checks on the dogs in the back and continues, “I tried to talk to Jimin and Hoseok hyung, even to Yoongi hyung. As you can see, I couldn’t do much.”

“You talked to hyung? Awww, baby…”

“He very loudly announced that the baby shower is gonna happen no matter if we want it or not and then dramatically whispered ‘Help me’. I am a bit worried.”

Taehyung bursts out laughing, already imagining the misery his head alpha has lived through for the last couple of days, terrorised by the omega, the beta and baby themed… things. He has no idea about anything party related, his two packmates didn’t want to tell him a single thing, so he can only guess how overboard they went.

“At least they didn’t do a gender reveal,” Jeongguk continues, clearly trying to lift Taehyung’s spirits and he couldn’t be more grateful. “Baby showers are usually quite calm, right? Gender reveals on the other hand, those can get wild.”

“Oh believe me, they wanted to,” the omega snorts. “But Hobi hyung was still in the US and it wouldn’t be the same without him. They said they’re gonna do something double-amazing for my next pup.”

“They could join forces with my friends, I’m sure they’d be down for something ridiculous.”

“Please, don’t give them ideas. These two are dangerous while being a duo, I don’t want to imagine what they would do with a workforce of six bulky alphas.”

Jeongguk laughs out loud hearing that but agrees with him. He’s got to know Taehyung’s friends well enough to know that mixing their fearless minds with his own squad’s half-brains, they could sign themselves for a catastrophe.

“Let’s not worry about something that’s not gonna happen for some time,” the alpha suggests. “Let’s focus on the problem at hand. If you decide that you are done and really can’t stand being there even a second longer, give me some sign and we will stage you’re going into labour so we can leave and later let them know it was a false alarm and just some Braxton-Hicks contractions.”

“I love how your beautiful brain works,” Taehyung grins and stretches himself over the handbrake to grant his boyfriend a kiss. “I should be fine but the knowledge I can run away if it gets too much, already makes me feel better.”

“What can I say except ‘You’re welcome’” Jeongguk sings and giggles right after, scrunching his button nose and showing off his bunny teeth. “So what sign should we use? Because we really do need a sign, so I don’t panic. If there is no sign it means you’re pulling Susanna and I really need to take you to the hospital immediately.”

“‘Pulling Susanna’?” The omega bursts out laughing. “What does it even mean?”

“Going into labour during a baby shower, duh?” His boyfriend sends him a sassy look, as if Taehyung’s embarrassing him with the lack of basic knowledge. “So about that sign…”

They spend the rest of the car ride trying to come up with the most sneaky sign that would guarantee no one suspects that the “labour” is a stunt. They also realise that Taehyung’s packmates can be a huge obstacle for their plan, as the trio for sure would rush to follow them to the hospital. When they park in front of the pack house Taehyung needs to run to the bathroom after he almost peed himself from laughing too hard at Jeongguk’s suggestion to slash Yoongi’s tires.

Jimin and Hoseok went all out for the party. The garden turned into a bunny wonderland, with little white bunny figurines placed all around the area, all decorations with cute animal prints and a cake in a bunny shape. There are metres of fairy lights hung on trees and shrubs, waiting for the sun to go down to be lit up. In the centre of the garden there’s a bamboo room divider with a cute “baby shower” banner and a huge balloon half-arch.

“Hey everybody, thank you, this is a beautiful party,” Taehyung enters the garden with a cheerful step. “You invited all of my friends!”

Yoongi groans loudly and Hoseok pushes him in a fit of laughter. Jimin only rolls his eyes and sighs disapprovingly. “Are you going to quote “The Room” for the entire day as a form of protest?”

“No, but I couldn’t help myself,” Taehyung giggles, seeing Jeongguk’s questioning look. “It’s from this the best worst movie in the world. Our pack are quite fans.”

“You three are fans. I suffered through it once because you promised it’s gonna be fun with booze and it wasn’t. Guk, never let yourself be talked into it by this little devil. I know he can be very persuasive but trust hyung, it’s not worth it,” Yoongi finishes his rant with a deep breath and bottoms up his drink.

“Babe! It was for the first toast!” Jimin scolds him in panic, running away to bring more of the champagne, Yeontan and Bam hot on his heels.

“He’s a bit stressed,” Hobi explains, as if they haven’t noticed themselves. “It’s additional pressure when the guest of honour doesn’t want the party.”

“Hi, it’s me, I’m the problem, it's me,” Taehyung sing-songs. “But it’s very rude to have alcohol when most of the guests can’t even drink.” He points at the champagne flute in his hyung’s hand.

“It’s non-alcoholic, Tae. We are not as dumb as you take us for.” The beta rolls his eyes and when Jimin comes back, the two step out in the small semicircle of people that started gathering around them when Taehyung made his appearance in the garden.

Only then the omega finally takes in the entire crowd holding full champagne flutes, moved to see all of the people he’s grown to love during the last few months, who he’s been sharing this journey with. There’s of course heavily pregnant Jin, who Taehyung can see is waiting for a right moment to come to him, with Namjoon. Felix and Hyunjin with their sweet Haru in the alpha’s arms. Susanna, Woosung and little Sujin, Yeonjun and Soobin with baby Minjee, who Taehyung hasn’t had a chance to meet yet, there’s even San with his mate but only one of their four pups.

The omega looks around in search of the rest and finds them a bit in the back, all three peeking curiously inside a twin stroller where Jackson squats to help the smallest kid to reach and see the babies. Vicky waves at Taehyung with a huge grin and he waves back, so happy that all of his friends made time for him, despite most of them being freshly baked parents.

“Hello everyone,” Jimin starts, his voice shaking slightly with nerves. “Thank you for accepting the invitation, I know it must’ve been a bit of a hustle with having little babies around but I also know how much it means to Tae that you came. Now that he’s finally here, we can have a first toast.” The omega turns around and Taehyung suddenly feels like crying, tears welling up in his eyes in a matter of seconds. Damn his pregnancy hormones. “I am so proud of you, my soulmate. You were so brave to decide to start this journey on your own and look at you now. You are about to become a dad in less than a month and we will finally meet your sweet baby with a bunny smile. I know you’d prefer to nest and be lovey-dovey with your alpha right now, but I hope you’re gonna enjoy this day nonetheless. To Tae and Nari!”

“To Tae and Nari!”

“It’s supposed to be my day, so why are y'all making me cry,” Taehyung sobs out, making everyone chuckle quietly. “Thank you all so much, I am really happy my stubborn packmates decided to go forward with this party even though I protested very fiercely and-”

His little speech gets interrupted by a loud cry of Minjee, which startles the two dogs and starts the whole chain reaction of cries of the rest of the babies. The new parents scramble to comfort their pups and just like that, the crowd disperses around the garden. Jeongguk chuckles quietly and pulls his crying boyfriend to himself.

“Look, pup, this is gonna be us soon,” he teases with a smile and plants a kiss on Taehyung’s forehead.

“Us too and I can’t wait for it!”

Seokjin and Namjoon finally get to them, the omega clearly exasperated, huffing every few seconds.

“I can’t wait for this little rascal to finally get out of me. This is a nightmare, being so huge and heavy in the middle of the summer. Joonie, for the next pup we need to better calculate when we make them,” he sighs dramatically.

“Sure, love, whatever you want,” Namjoon responds calmly. He’s already used to his mate’s antics and knows that there’s no point in engaging in any discussion - Seokjin just wants to vent to relieve some of frustration.

“Oh yes, it's best to plan in advance. I wanted a summer child once and will never make this mistake again,” an unfamiliar voice startles Tae and when he looks to his side, he can see a handsome black haired omega with an infant in his arms. “Hi!”

“Hello, you must be Wooyoung,” Taehyung smiles. “San told me a lot about you and your family.”

“Ditto, your story is so unique he was babbling about you for an hour straight after your first appointment,” Wooyoung jokes and briefly looks over his shoulder, to check the situation in the back. San is already with the rest of their pups, chatting with Jackson and Woosung by the strollers, while Vicky and Susanna disappeared inside some time ago, probably to help Jimin and Hoseok.

“Anyway,” the omega continues. “I don’t recommend being this pregnant in summer or in winter. All those layers are a nightmare.” He shudders as if the mere memory was equally awful.

“Great, it makes all the planning much easier,” Jeongguk jokes. “I must say, I’ve never given much thought to all the logistics of the pregnancy before and I admire you omegas so much. Like the last heatwave, I was dying already and I can’t imagine what it must be for you in such a state.”

“I didn’t leave home for four days and I’m not even ashamed,” Seokjin quickly admits. “I could only lie down in front of an AC set at a low speed and pray to Goddess for this hell to end.”

“Same and I couldn’t even nest, which was driving me absolutely crazy.”

“Exactly! It’s only natural for us now to nest and how are we supposed to do it when even our skin feels like an excessive layer.”

They complain a bit more, with Yeonjun and Felix joining them while their mates stay with kids and other alphas. It doesn’t take long before they are summoned by two party planners to sit at the table to play the first game of the day.

Jimin and Hoseok really made an effort in organising the whole event. They start with serving appetisers and salads made from the fruit and vegetables of recent weeks, and giving everyone forms to fill in during the afternoon, which are supposed to be given to Nari for her 18th birthday.

After food a photographer arrives and does a small photo shoot. Taehyung’s never had so many photos taken of himself his whole life but he doesn’t even mind, when all of his friends are so eager to join him in front of the balloon arch. He’s hugged and squished by everyone, they cup his baby bump after he gave them a group permission to do it, and Jeongguk kisses him sweetly, making all the alphas and Wooyoung wolf whistle at them. It especially warms his heart when the little pups pose with him and their tiny hands caress his baby bump. He catches Jeongguk’s gaze and sees the same longing in them.

At the same time Jimin was taking polaroid photos and before they sit back for another game, they are all hung up on the fairy lights and scattered around the table.

“This is not possible that this is strawberry,” Jeongguk scrunches his nose angrily, scooping another portion of baby food with his teaspoon. “It doesn’t taste like strawberry at all!”

They are being presented with little jars of baby food of one of the most popular brands and the task is to guess the flavour. The alpha is doing surprisingly poorly, making everyone, especially Taehyung, laugh almost to tears and he himself gets more and more frustrated.

At the beginning it was not that surprising, they were all doing not that great when they were supposed to guess the dinner mushes. The best at it was of course Wooyoung, though even he could guess all of the ingredients in only one of the mushes.

But to encourage them a bit, Jimin and Hoseok started to mix dinners with desserts and those were much easier. The ones made of one fruit most of them were guessing flawlessly, the mixes a bit more complicated but they can still get somehow close to the correct answer.  All of them except Jeongguk.

“Well, it is strawberry though, according to the producer and everyone here,” Hoseok snorts, taking off the sticker from the label. There is a gigantic strawberry printed on it. 

“Baby, it doesn’t taste like anything else,” Taehyung giggles and tries to take the jar away from his boyfriend, but the man only brings it closer to his chest and takes another spoonful.

“Well, maybe because it doesn’t taste like anything. It’s tasteless and disgusting.”

“So tasteless or disgusting?”

“I don’t care, my daughter will not eat such shi-shipless food,” Jeongguk quickly corrects himself, eyeing San and Wooyoung’s pups, who sit at the table with them, each eating from their jars happily and not paying attention to adults’ boring bickering.

“Of course not,” Taehyung laughs and looks at his head alpha teasingly. “Her uncle probably already makes some preserves especially for her, so she doesn’t have to eat anything store bought.”

Yoongi grumbles something incoherently at the accusation but the way the tips of his ears turn red tells all of them everything they need to know. And even though Taehyung teases him, the omega is forever grateful for his hyung’s soft, loving heart, always ready to take care of him, their pack and now his daughter, before she’s even born. A true head alpha.

“Ok, give me the next one,” Jeongguk cracks his knuckles and neck. “This one I’m going to guess, I’m telling yall!”

He doesn’t guess it. Nor the one after or the one after that. He manages to get two points at the very end when they are handed a banana dessert and, to everybody’s delight, a carrot mush. Though he still claims Nari’s not going to eat these little abominations, he finishes both of the jars with his brows furrowed in a big frown.

After the baby food quiz (won undeniably by Wooyoung), the three oldest kids run off to play with Bam and Yeontan and the adults move to gift unwrapping. Taehyung is weeping quietly at every present he receives, not even surprised with his emotional state. He feels loved and blessed, having so many wonderful people in his life.

But what really does it for him, is when his packmates lead them to Taehyung’s old room, which they transformed into half-nursery - one half of the room untouched, with his queen size bed, desk, door to the closet and chest of drawers, and the other fully furnished to accommodate a baby.

“So you don’t have to bring anything with you, when you come home,” Yoongi says with a soft smile and huffs in surprise, when suddenly he has an armful of a pregnant omega.

“Thank you, hyung. You guys are the best,” Taehyung whispers, a bit overwhelmed.

“That’s not everything, come,” Jimin chimes in and they go back to the garden, where a beautiful, classy and solid-looking stroller is waiting with a big red ribbon wrapped around it. “Ta-da!”

“Hyung finally decided on the model,” Hoseok jokes and nudges Yoongi, whose cheeks got a bit rosy. “Apparently it’s a Porsche of baby strollers, so we hope it’s gonna serve you well.”

“Guys, this is too much,” Jeongguk mumbles but still hugs the trio in gratitude. “Thank you.”

“We promised Tae to get him a stroller when he got pregnant. You have to let us spoil our niece a little,” Jimin caresses the baby bump lovingly.

“But you didn’t have to do the whole nursery, too,” Taehyung sniffs.

“We wanted to, so shut up and stop being ridiculous.”

So after another round of ‘thank you’s they shut up.

There is a little break before the dinner is served, and Taehyung and Jeongguk use this time to mingle a bit. Taehyung uses this opportunity to babble a bit to Haru and Sujin, and he finally gets to meet Yeonjun and Soobin’s Minjee. He positively melts when the couple lets him hold her. She is not very responsive yet but it still feels amazing to have a pup in his arms. He just can’t wait for it to be his own daughter.

He and Jeongguk also get to carry the twins for a bit and the sight of his alpha with a baby has a huge effect on Taehyung. To see him coo at the baby girl, bounce her gently, careful to not hurt her and ask Jackson every now and then if he’s holding her correctly, is the sweetest thing Taehyung’s seen the entire day. He is growing more and more impatient to be able to have this view every day.

At the end, after the food is served and eaten, they hold a little competition for Taehyung and Jeongguk, to see how well prepared they are to be parents. It is mostly them bending in a half with laughter at the ridiculous questions Jimin and Hoseok threw at them, while they are trying to succeed at task after task.

“A pacifier falls on the floor and lands right between you and Bam. You know that Bam is going to jump at it the moment you move. What do you do?”

“Nari stuffs a lego piece into her nose and doesn’t want you to take it out. How do you convince her to let you do it?”

“You locked a baby in the car, how do you react?”

“Nari is swimming in the sea, and you see a shark fin closeby. What do you do?”

“You see Nari grabbing a key and swallowing it before you reach her. What’s your reaction?”

“What do you do when you find out that bug crawled into Nari’s ear? You can see its butt!”

And it goes on like this while each of them tries to properly secure a doll in their arms with a baby carrier wrap, when they put the dolls in car seats and unbuckle them and when they race who will change the diaper faster, completing all the necessary steps.

“How are you so good at this?!” Taehyung yells incredulously, seeing his boyfriend changing the doll with expertise, as if he’s done it a million times before. Don’t take Taehyung wrong, he’s doing great too, but he didn’t expect the alpha to know what to do this well.

“Um, I learned in the birth class? I think it’s one of the basics they always teach. Didn’t you do the entire course?” Jeongguk snorts and continues applying a cream on the fake baby’s butt as if he hasn’t said anything extraordinary.

“You took the birth class?” Taehyung stops what he’s doing and just stares at the alpha with wide eyes.

“Well, yeah?” Jeongguk tilts his head to the side, surprised with Taehyung’s reaction. “I didn’t know anything about taking care of the baby, I had to learn somehow to not go into it totally clueless.” He shrugs and closes the tube of cream.

“But… You didn’t tell me? And I haven’t even noticed you’ve been going to classes!”

“I haven’t finished yet, to be fair. And we have them at my work. Turns out there are quite a lot of future parents in my company and we pitched in the idea to organise something for the employees and they listened to us. We started with all the practical stuff at my request, as we don’t know when Nari’s gonna decide it’s time to go out,” The alpha grins and caresses the baby bump lovingly. “Now your dad is all ready to change your stinky diapers, isn’t that right, sweetheart?”

He finishes off the diaper change and lifts the fake baby up in the air in the recreation of the famous “The Lion King” scene, singing “The circle of life”, while Taeyung just keeps staring at him with wide eyes, his own doll long forgotten.

And even though he loses the game and it’s Jeongguk who is announced to be a better prepared parent, not him, he doesn’t really mind. He’s just so fond and smitten with his boyfriend and for the hundredth time since they got together, he thinks that he couldn’t imagine himself a better partner, even if he wanted to.

After that most of the guests head home, only Seokjin and Namjoon staying a bit longer. They’re all sitting at the table, snacking on the leftover Soparnik, a Croatian savoury pie with a swiss chard filling, and discussing their plans for the National Liberation Day.

“There are just ten days left, we should make a decision on what we’ll be doing.”

“I thought we already decided that we’re having a barbecue here,” Taehyung sends a questioning look toward Jimin.

“Same. I am confused, you even invited us some time ago,” Seokjin puts another piece of Soparnik on his plate.

“Yeah sure, but what about the food, decorations, some other activities?”

“I think that this baby shower planning got too much in your head,” Taehyung snorts. “The only activity I might participate in is soaking in a pool.”

“We don’t have a pool.”

“So I won’t do any activities.”

“I’m with Taehyung on this one,” Seokjin chimes in. “By that time, I will be ready to burst any minute, so feel free to do some fun stuff, but don’t count me in.”

“Boring,” Jimin huffs and looks at Jeongguk. “Would you like to invite your friends?”

“You mean my squad?”

“Yeah, or whoever you want.”

“Sure,” the alpha beams and grabs his phone. “I’m gonna ask if they have any plans. We usually go for a sports trip for the National Liberation Day but this year we’re having a raincheck as it’s too close to a due date.”

When Jeongguk’s group chat blows with confirmations that all of the guys are free, Jimin grabs a notepad to make a list of what needs to be prepared. He, Seokjin, Yoongi and Jeongguk come up with the menu and divide work between all of them, bickering and screaming one over another. Namjoon, with Yeontan sleeping soundly on his lap, joins their conversation from time to time but mostly just listens and laughs at their silly teasing and Bam lies at Taehyung’s feet, tired after the whole day of playing with pups.

“It seems like our pack is growing.”

Taehyung looks to his left, where Hoseok sips on his drink and observes the whole scene with a small smile on his face. The omega looks back at their friends, who are right now discussing the vitality of having a swimming pool at the party.

“Yes… I guess it is.”

Chapter Text

The increasing urge of nesting is seriously no joke the closer Taehyung gets to d-day. He finds himself waddling around the apartment cleaning, making preserves, baking (a yeast cake with rhubarb and crumble became his obsession from the first bite), cooking and storing their freezer with most of the things he cooks. He builds and rebuilds their nests and at one point even finds himself at Jeongguk’s old apartment, building a new nest in the alpha’s old bed.

It’s not really uncomfortable, on the contrary, it feels good to be productive but he is still in his 36th week and his feet pay him back in the evenings for all the hard work he’s done during the day. It’s a bit of a nightmare but everything gets better when Taehyung sinks onto the couch, with his calves at his boyfriend’s lap and receives a divine massage from said boyfriend’s miraculous hands.

“You should rest more, pup,” Jeongguk tsks and briefly kisses Taehyung’s right ankle before he returns to massaging that foot. “Your feet are swelling a lot lately and I don’t want you to overexert yourself.”

“But I feel like I need to prepare everything for her,” the omega whines but giggles right after, when Jeongguk tickles him under his knee. “Stop it!”

“Or what?”

“I’ll bite you!”

“I’d like to see you try,” Jeongguk smirks at him but yelps, when immediately a set of teeth clamps down on his tattooed biceps. “What the heck?!”

“I told you, I’d bite you,” Taehyung shrugs and bursts in laughter, when the alpha starts tickling his ribs mercilessly. “No! Stop! I’m pregnant, you can’t torture me!”

“Oh, I so can’t wait for you to finally not be pregnant, just so you can’t use that argument anymore,” Jeongguk huffs in pretended irritation and kisses Taehyung’s nose.

“Then I’m gonna be postpartum.”

“Is that so? Are you trying to Ravenclaw your way out of being tickled for the rest of your life?”

“I’m just stating facts.” The omega spreads his arms nonchalantly. “And when I recover, I’m pretty sure you’re gonna put another pup in me soon enough and this way we’ll come full circle and be in the same spot as now. Which means, I can’t be tickled because I’m vulnerable.”

“Hmmm, I like the way your sexy, smart brain works,” Jeongguk hums and starts licking at Taehyung’s scent gland.

The writer laughs breathlessly. “You are just horny.”

“Always for you, you are so gorgeous I’m half hard most of the time.”

“And you call me nasty,” Taehyung snorts and moans right after, when the alpha’s sneaky hand starts stroking him through his thin shorts. “Besides, I’m huge and you are just weird.”

“You are not huge. You are perfectly round and your scent… shit, pup… it’s driving me absolutely crazy.”

The more Taehyung’s been rounding out, the more the alpha’s breeding kink has been kicking in. At the beginning the writer didn’t pay it much attention, of course he noticed that his boyfriend is obsessed with the idea of putting the next pup in him but it didn’t look too serious.

But it seems like his nesting instincts rubbed off on Jeongguk and his primal instincts started to act out more often as he became fixated with mounting his omega and stuffing him full of his knot. Now, whenever they have sex, he keeps whining about how he can’t see if he bred the omega properly, because his belly can’t swell with his cum and the fact that Taehyung’s already pupped doesn’t soothe the distressed alpha.

It turns out he gets even more sensitive, when he gets into his pre-rut. They are kissing and touching on the couch, Taehyung’s foot massage long forgotten when suddenly they are hit with a strong, aroused pheromones of the alpha.

Jeongguk immediately detaches himself from Taehyung and jumps onto his feet.

“Shit.”

“Gukkie?”

“I- I think I’m about to start my rut. Fuck, shit, fuck,” he closes his nose and fumbles to open a calendar in his phone. “I totally forgot about it, this is bad.”

“It’s okay, baby. I’ll help you-”

“No!” Jeongguk’s eyes grow impossibly wide and first drops of sweat start to appear on his forehead. “Absolutely not!”

Taehyung flinches at the ardent refusal, his omega howling inside him in rejection. And he totally understands, he could howl himself right now.

“O-okay then, if-if you d-don’t want to, I-I-I-” he stutters and is about to get up, to hide himself in the main nest in the bedroom but Jeongguk kneels in front of him and takes his face in his hands.

“Pup, I can’t wait to spend my rut with you, but I’m not going to do it while you’re in such a vulnerable state,” he smiles soothingly, although his whole body is taut like a stretched bow. “You know that I wouldn’t be in full control and I’m not risking hurting you.”

“Gukkie,” Taehyung covers the alpha’s hands with his and releases soothing pheromones. “You could never hurt me. Neither could your alpha. You said that yourself, he already accepts me as his omega. Maybe… maybe you won’t even go into rut. I am already pregnant so maybe it’s just this night of pre-rut and tomorrow everything will be over.”

“But we are not mated, love. It is normal for mated couples when the omega is pregnant but we haven’t even spent our heat and rut together.” Jeongguk purses his lips but Taehyung can see in his eyes that he’s starting to break.

“Maybe not but remember that one, there are couples that never mate and I’ve never heard about rut being a problem during pregnancy in such cases, and two - I am already pregnant with you. Your alpha knows it’s your pup, so when he realises he doesn’t have to breed me anymore, he might calm down.”

“I don’t know… It’s all just speculations-”

“Baby,” Taehyung interrupts him gently. “Let me help you tonight and if you end up going into a rut, let’s see what to do then, hm?”

The omega has a firm resolution that he’s going to help his boyfriend no matter if it ends up being just a pre-rut or a full-on rut but he’s not going to admit that to Jeongguk. Besides, he strongly believes that the alpha is going to be fine in the morning because they might not be mated yet but they love each other and they are already expecting a pup. He doesn’t accept the possibility of him being already pregnant not being enough for Jeongguk’s alpha and that he will go into rut no matter what, blinded by the need to breed.

Jeongguk finally relents and they move from the living room to their bedroom and it’s clear that just getting into their main nest makes the alpha feel much better and less agitated. They shed each other's clothes slowly, Jeongguk quickly taking over control and Taehyung happily submitting to him, excited to see the more dominant side of his sweet boyfriend, who has always been nothing but loving, always a bit careful with him.

“Are you sure?” The alpha asks once more, still slightly hesitant.

“Of course,” Taehyung confirms with a smile, hoping that Jeongguk can see the certainty in his eyes.

And it seems like he does, because he cups the baby bump between his hands and starts nosing at it, his scent spiking up and clouding the writer’s mind. He moves a bit up to leave a path of wet kisses around Taehyung’s small breasts. Now so close to the due date, they tend to leak from time to time, especially when the couple gets intimate, today being no different.

Jeongguk closes his mouth around one of the nipples and groans at the sweet taste.

“Taehyung,” he moans and starts to move his hips, humping the air and brushing his hard cock against the omega’s from time to time. “You taste divine, love. So good. One day I’m going to make both of us come just from this.”

The alpha goes back to playing with the nipple with his lips and tongue, while he brings one hand to give some attention to the second breast. He alternates the stimulation between them and soon enough Taehyung can feel himself dripping with slick and his arousal doesn’t go unnoticed by Jeongguk.

“Such a good omega,” he purrs, lowering himself to get closer to the inviting entrance and breathing in deeply. “Already so ready for his alpha.”

“Gukkie,” Taehyung whines, the shivers of excitement running down his spine at the first flick of Jeongguk’s tongue. He expected his boyfriend to be eager for the main act as he’s in his pre-rut but on the other hand he is not surprised. Jeongguk always gets off on pleasuring Taehyung and he’s obsessed with eating him out.

“I got you, pup,” he mumbles, already high on the omega’s scent and knowledge that it’s him who got him like this. “Now, relax and let your alpha have a bit of fun.”

Some time later, they’re lying connected by alpha’s knot and Jeongguk keeps nosing at Taehyung’s neck. He alternates between nipping at it softly and leaving a trail of kisses, groaning when he finally gets to his scent gland, where his mating mark will be, should already be, and starts licking around it without abandon.

“She should‘ve been conceived like this,” the alpha complains quietly. He moves his hips slightly and makes Taehyung moan. “I should’ve found you sooner, how could I not? My omega, what an excuse of an alpha I am,” he whispers and keeps thrusting the knot deeper inside of Taehyung, even if it’s not physically possible, even if Taehyung’s too sensitive. But he doesn’t stop his alpha.

He lets him have it. It drives him crazy too. “My omega deserves to be bred properly, to be taken care of, my baby, my omega.”

“Alpha,” Taehyung chokes out, breathless, overwhelmed. 

He feels so full already, both with his alpha and a powerful love, that fills his heart to the threat of bursting with too many emotions.

Jeongguk prompts himself on his forearm and looks at the omega’s expression.

“I’m sorry I found you so late, pup.”

Taehyung cups his face tenderly. “You found me right on time,” he whispers and brings the alpha closer to him, to convey through the kiss everything he doesn’t have words for, to calm him down.

“My baby,” Jeongguk starts moving again, as much as the knot allows him to. He buries his face in the crook of Taehyung’s neck. “Mine. Mine. Mine, only mine. My omega,” he accentuates each word with sharp thrust and puts his hand on his belly. “My pup. Mine.”

He moves desperately until he spills inside Taehyung again, his alpha finally calming down from his restlessness enough to let the couple fall asleep.

As Taehyung predicted, when the morning comes Jeongguk is all back to normal, his rut long forgotten and his alpha satisfied having his omega well bred and pupped. The realisation makes the writer absolutely elated, happy that his boyfriend and his wolf really see him as a life partner, basically a mate, even though they’ve never gone through the mating cycle together before. 

It seems like Jeongguk comes to the same conclusions, as he gets even more clingy and loving, scenting Taehyung for good fifteen minutes before they leave bed and then multiple times during a day, every time leaving the omega all putty and on a verge of blissful sleep. When it’s time for their OB visit, Taehyung’s so high on patchouli scent that if not for Jeongguk, he would for sure miss it. The alpha drives them to the clinic and Taehyung is groggy for the whole ride.

At the clinic, they go through all the routine questions, checks, measurements and they receive another set of ultrasound photos (the doctor even managed to snap a clean shot of the entire foot, as Nari was stretching, and Jeongguk can’t stop freaking out how adorable it is).

“As always, as fit as a fiddle,” doctor Song  announces and smiles. “We are getting closer to the due date and I just wanted to remind you that from now on we’re going to see each other every week for our appointments. Taehyung-ssi, please email me by the end of this week who is going to be your birth partner. If you’ll be a bit late it’s also fine, but please keep in mind that you may go into labour any moment now and without the details we will not allow anyone to enter the delivery room.”

“It’s ok, doctor,” Taehyung clears his throat. He fiddles in his seat nervously as he’s gathering courage to say his next words. “I already decided who will be there with me.”

“That’s great, Taehyung-ssi. You can still email it to me later or I can fill in the short form right now.”

“We can do it now,” the omega confirms and he can feel how fast his heart’s beating. He doesn’t have any reason to be so nervous, especially after the events of the night before and the realisation that it brough, but it is more excitement than concern. “You can note that I will be accompanied by Jeon Jeongguk.”

He can feel how the loose grip on his hand tightens and smell how his boyfriend’s scent spikes up with happiness. Doctor Song sends him a knowing look and writes his name down and then continues with following questions for the alpha and giving him a short description of what to expect when the d-day comes.

“Of course, we will still be ready for the c-section in case the little girl doesn’t want to come out in the safe time frame or in case you decide to not go with the natural delivery after all,” the doctor assures Taehyung and smiles. “But I do not advise against that, your body is more than ready, so it’s solely up to your preference.”

“Thank you, doctor,” The omega smiles back. “I think I will stick to the natural way but it’s always nice to have a choice.”

“Of course. That would be all from my side, do any of you have any questions?”

“No, thank you, doctor,” Jeongguk bows deeply. “Thank you so much for taking such good care of my omega and our pup.”

“No need to thank me, Jeongguk-ssi. I will see you again next week.”

They bid their goodbyes and leave the office.

The couple walks in silence, their hands slightly swaying between them, and Taehyung’s in a great mood. He knows that Jeongguk is too, so he is a bit surprised that the alpha is so calm.

It changes 180 degrees the moment they step outside. Jeongguk immediately sweeps Taehyung off his feet and twirls around as if he was not holding a heavily pregnant omega bridestyle in his arms. He engulfs him in a tight hug, though still mindful of the big belly between them, after he places him back down on his feet.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you,” he keeps whispering in Taehyung’s ear and the omega can smell in his scent how happy his boyfriend is. It is so pungent, Taehyung would get worried that other omegas might smell his alpha, but he is way too overjoyed right now.

“You are so unserious,” he mumbles but they both know he doesn’t mind.

It’s one of the things Taehyung loves so much about his boyfriend - how cheerful he is and how he’s not scared to act on his feelings. Even if it might make him look like a bit of a loon.

“I’m not unserious, I’m just happy,” Jeongguk admits sweetly and leaves a small kiss on Taehyung’s scent gland, before he pulls away. “I don’t think you realise how much it means to me. I- I was really worried you’d decide to not have me there. I would understand but I would also be so disappointed because there’s nothing I’d want more than to greet our daughter with you.”

“I know, love.” Taehyung cups his bunny face in both hands. “And I know that if I chose anyone else, I would regret it for the rest of my life because I also want to greet our daughter together.”

“Good,” the alpha grumbles and only then Taehyung notices that he has tears in his eyes. “I love you.”

“I love you.”

They connect their foreheads and move only when they smell another couple getting closer to the clinic entrance. They pull away but they still stay close while they’re walking to the car. Taehyung hates the idea of separating from his alpha, even if for a short time like a ride home.

“Should we go celebrate?” Jeongguk asks when he starts the car.

“What do you have in mind?”

“How about an ice cream date? We can go to the shopping centre to that ice cream parlour you like and maybe while we’re at it we buy the garden pool for the National Liberation Day.”

“Sounds like a good plan.”

Taehyung smiles and reaches over the handbrake, to put his hand on Jeongguk’s thigh. It’s a very nice thigh, the omega must admit. He gets a bit distracted by it and he doesn’t notice how his scent spikes up but this time not with pure happiness.

“Oh, I see,” Jeongguk smirks quietly and flexes the muscle in his thigh, bringing Taehyung out of his trance. “Maybe you wanna skip the ice cream and go straight home for a real dessert?”

“Shut up,” the writer mumbles and turns to his window, ignoring the teasing remarks of his boyfriend for the rest of the ride.

The ice cream parlour in the mall is quite packed, filled with teenagers who are enjoying their summer vacations. The couple observes them, cooing at the cute flirting attempts of some young alphas and sheepish reactions of omegas and betas. It’s adorable, those first infatuations and first steps at dating - something that Taehyung reminisces about with fondness but at the same time he’s happy to be past this stage.

He enjoys what he has now much more. Ready to pop out a pup any second, with his alpha’s arm wrapped around his shoulders and his sweet giggles in his ear. Jeongguk rants something about Nari not being allowed to date until she’s at least 26 and maybe it would sound a bit more convincing if the alpha didn’t have his green tea ice cream smeared around his mouth and a bit on top of his round nose.

Taehyung can’t help but laugh happily at the sight and he leans in to lick the sweet from the chocolate chip mole under Jeongguk’s lip.

“Hey!”

“You eat like a little pig,” he laughs and finally takes a napkin, to clean his baby boyfriend.

“It’s too good,” the alpha admits with a shrug and Taehyung has to believe him because his eyebrows are drawn together in an angry frown. “It’s not as good as corn ice cream but I think it might get into my top 3.”

“Top 3? That’s a big accomplishment.”

“I know you’re making fun of me, but I’m not joking.”

“I know, Gukkie. You are very serious about your ice cream.”

“You bet I am.” The alpha nods and throws the last piece of the waffle into his mouth. “Ok, let’s go. Time to get to that pool and I know I have the rest of the day off but I still need to send one report when we get home. And the faster I do it, the faster I can knot you as you’ve been dreaming about since the car ride.”

“Sometimes, I really start to rethink my life choices…”

Jeongguk doesn’t seem bothered by the mumbled comment, sexily confident as usual. Those young alphas could follow his example. Though maybe it’s better if the teenagers weren’t running around talking about their knots.

Shopping for the garden pool was supposed to be a quick errand but it turns out, Taehyung’s future mate turns into an overexcited golden retriever when faced with something that involves “water” and potentially “swimming”. After listening about the third pool, which in the writer’s opinion except the size didn’t differ from the previous one at all, he squeezes Jeongguk’s biceps to signal him that he’s going, and leaves him with the sales assistant.

Jeongguk will probably end up buying a huge pool that will be able to fit in a few adult men, so he decides to look for something smaller that Yeontan and Bam could use to cool down and find some relief from the summer heat. Passing by the kid’s aisle, he stops for a moment, to look at all the cute floats for babies. They will probably not use any of those this year, but he can already imagine his little one year old with a bunny smile, a little pigtail on top of her head, floating around the pool with her father next to her, always there to keep her safe.

To stop himself from getting too emotional for no reason in the middle of the garden section, he shakes himself and vigorously waddles further. He’s quite surprised to find out that the selection in the pet aisle is almost as extensive as for the kids. There are all types of features included in pools slash water play mats, like sprinklers that Taehyung just knows Bam would absolutely love, and that would make Yeontan furious. 

He giggles to himself, putting away a sprinkler that looks like a sunflower and when he raises his head, he freezes and his eyes grow wider.

“Taehyung-ssi? Hello,” Wonyoung smiles at him politely and Taehyung’s heart starts to beat rapidly. 

This… This may go very neutral or end up really badly. What are the odds of running into her here, in the middle of the shopping centre? Maybe Taehyung shouldn’t be that surprised - after all that’s how he met the omega for the first time. He just hopes that Jeongguk doesn't decide to look for him at this moment.

He puts a hand on his belly, to bring himself some comfort and reciprocates the smile. Only now he notices the subtle scent of lavender. Luna, he forgot how much he hated that smell.

“Hello, Wonyoung-ssi.”

“Wow! You look great!” The girl smiles. She sounds genuine, so the writer relaxes a bit. “How are you feeling?”

“Big,” he jokes and they share a chuckle. “Good thing only two and a half weeks are left or I don’t know if my belly could handle growing any more.”

“Time flies for sure. Well, it was nice seeing you. I wish all the best for you and a little one. Take ca-”

“Tae-baby, look at this!”

Taehyung closes his eyes in exasperation. It was so close, to pass without an excessive awkwardness. He turns around and he can’t see his boyfriend, who is fully covered by a gigantic cardboard on a trolley. Jeongguk peeks out from behind with a broad, bunny smile, still unaware of the presence of another familiar person.

“I think this one should be big enough.”

“Jeonggukie?” Wonyoung visibly lights up at the sight of her ex boyfriend and the writer's wolf growls a bit, bristling at the girl’s joy.

At that moment Jeongguk finally looks away from Taehyung and his eyes grow a bit when he realises who is standing in front of him. He looks between the two omegas a few times, trying to access the situation.

“Is everything alright?” He finally asks, leaving the trolley to stand next to Taehyung. He puts a comforting hand on his lower back and the omega immediately relaxes at the gesture.

“Yes, everything’s okay, don’t worry.” Taehyung smiles to calm him down.

Wonyoung observes them for a couple of seconds and nods her head, as if to herself. “I see.”

“Wonyoung, how have you been?” Jeongguk asks, not commenting on whatever her words could imply.

“Fine,” she answers curtly, her voice suddenly much colder than before. “Excuse me, I have to go. Goodbye, Taehyung-ssi.”

She completely ignores Jeongguk and leaves the couple alone in the pet aisle. The alpha sighs and moves his hand to squeeze Taehyung’s waist.

“Are you sure everything’s fine?”

“Yeah, it was a bit awkward but she was very polite. I think it would end on a much friendlier note if you didn’t show up,” he admits and caresses the baby bump. “She was probably hurt seeing us together, especially like this.”

“Well, it wasn’t ideal for sure but I am not going to feel guilty for moving on with my life and being happy.”

“I didn’t mean it like this…”

“I know, pup. But I can already see that you are the one who is worried now. Don’t be. She and her feelings are not our responsibility.”

“You’re right,” the omega breathes out. If he could, he would have gladly avoided the whole encounter but it already happened and there’s no point in fretting about it.

He wills himself to forget about the unexpected meeting, at least for now, and smiles at his boyfriend. “So, which pool did you decide on in the end?”

For the rest of the day Taehyung gets in a slightly melancholic mood. He keeps thinking about the meeting in the mall and how ironic it is, that they ran into the omega in the exact same place Taehyung ran into her and Jeongguk all those months ago. None of them expected then how much their life’s gonna change and intertwine with each other.

In some twisted way the couple should actually be grateful to Wonyoung as she was the one who recognised that Taehyung’s pregnant with Jeongguk and they met thanks to it. Of course, later they kept running into each other rather often but who knows how long it would take them to actually introduce themselves, if they ever even would.

Taehyung’s a bit absent during their family time, not really focusing on Jeongguk’s whispers to their daughter, just enjoys the sweet caresses and scenting while lost in thoughts.

“Where have you been all day?”

He flinches at the whisper next to his ear and realises in surprise, that his boyfriend is already next to him, gently bringing him into a warm embrace.

“Just thinking about stuff.”

“Are you overthinking what happened before?”

“Well, yes and no,” he laughs quietly and makes himself more comfortable in the alpha’s arms. “I’m not really dwelling on that meeting.”

“Oh?”

“Mhm,” he hums and starts his own share of scenting his boyfriend. “I’ve been thinking how we met thanks to her lashing out on me and wondering if we would get together if not for that memorable incident.”

“We would,” Jeongguk confirms with conviction. “We lived in the same building, we kept running into each other. We would meet eventually and if we met, we would get together.”

“You sound so sure about it.”

“I am. I told you already, you are the one for me, love.”

Taehyung buries his face in the alpha’s neck, leaving tiny pecks at the delicate skin. “I love you.”

“I love you, too. And I am so grateful for you and our daughter.”

They both cradle the baby bump in their hands, waiting for a few seconds if Nari will make herself known. She must be asleep as they don’t receive a single kick.

“You were so adorable back then,” Taehyung suddenly giggles. “You had no idea what was going on and you just kept panicking more and more.”

“Can you blame me?” Jeongguk leans away to look at the omega with a playful glint in his eyes. “I’ve always been a good boy and suddenly there’s a random omega clearly pregnant with me. I was shocked.”

“That was obvious. But you also received the news very well. That was what shocked me. I expected you to freak out but you were just like ‘Oh, yeah, I did that’.”

“Well, I haven’t thought about that donation on a daily basis so it didn’t click until you explained everything but you know, I was aware that something like this might happen. Not as in us meeting that way but as in somewhere there being a pup with my DNA.”

“Still, it’s not everyday news and you were very composed.”

“I’m glad it seemed like this because I was so losing it,” Jeongguk laughs and Taehyung joins him, covering his mouth with one hand. “Like, I kinda tried to pull myself together while being with you, especially that you started to have those pains, but you have no idea how much I was freaking out after we said our goodbyes.”

“Oh, my poor baby…”

“I was so poor then,” the alpha whines and Taehyung giggles at his antics. “There was nothing more I wanted to do but meet with my squad, freak out and get drunk. But I had to go after Wonyoung and explain things to her. You know it was already not exactly great between us but of course I couldn’t leave her like that, so I could meet with guys only the next day.”

“Did they know before that you were a donor?”

“Yes, they did. But they of course forgot about it, too. And after they calmed me down, they had a good laugh at my expense.”

“After getting to know them a bit, I’m not surprised.”

“I wasn’t either,” Jeongguk chuckles and connects their foreheads. “Yugyeom said that with that meeting we started a chain of events and we’ll keep running into each other.”

“Wow, is he some kind of a psychic?

“I don’t know, but they also told me recently that after I left that night, he asked if they wanted to bet that we’ll get together. So maybe he is. He claims he had a feeling.”

“Your dad told me the same thing. That he had a feeling, I mean.”

“Yeah, he told me too. I guess we were meant to be. Two psychics predicted that. We had no chance to escape.”

Taehyung smiles at those words and it grows even more, when Jeongguk kisses him. It’s more clashing teeth than an actual kiss but none of them complains.

“Did you know,” the alpha starts a few minutes later. “That according to some sources, Nari is the size of a pomeranian right now?”

“No!” The writer cackles loudly. “I refuse to believe it!”

“Yup.” Jeongguk nods solemnly. “She’s the size of Yeontan. Well, maybe not Yeontan, because he got quite packed and looks a bit like a godzilla, but some other, normal sized pomeranian.”

He goes on rambling about it a bit more, at some point calling Yeontan “Tanzilla” and making Taehyung laugh like crazy. The omega loves that so much about his mate - how easily he can calm his mind and make him relax, as if all his previous worries never existed. Even if today Taehyung’s head wasn’t full of concerns he was still not exactly there, lost somewhere in his thoughts, not fully aware of what was going on around him. And he’s thankful that Jeongguk is always ready to ground him, keep him down on earth. Present and lucid.

They cuddle and talk nonsense until they both finally fall into a peaceful sleep, the shopping centre encounter already left in the past, long forgotten.

Chapter Text

Jeongguk’s been working from home since the heatwave at the beginning of August, which was very convenient for Taehyung’s constant need of nesting and scenting, so when on Monday he has to go to the office, the omega goes slightly crazy alone in their apartment.

Of course, he’s not alone per se, he’s with Yeontan and Bam. And besides, he used to live alone, so it’s not like it’s something new to him. He doesn’t want to blame it on his pregnancy, but he knows it’s all due to the hormones wreaking havoc in his body system.

So when shortly after noon he runs out of things to do and everything for tomorrow's celebrations is prepared, he packs his gym bag, grabs the hospital bag and drives to his favourite swimming pool. Even though it is a walking distance away from their building, he can’t imagine walking in the temperatures the summer serves them lately.

He did a good job sticking to his workout schedule for the whole pregnancy, so he doesn’t want to mess everything up so close to the finish line. He doesn’t go to yoga classes anymore, most of the time it is way too hot for him to leave the apartment during the day, but he still practises at home. After a few months of exercising under a teacher’s watchful eye, he knows all the poses and sequences perfectly, so the only drawback is that he doesn’t meet with Seokjin regularly anymore. Though they try to connect via video chat to workout together as often as possible.

The other omega also stays home most of the time, waiting for his rascal to get out and according to his paternity instincts, little Dojoon will join them any day now.

“I only hope he doesn’t decide to be born on Tuesday, because I am actually excited for our barbecue,” he told Taehyung last time they met online for a yoga session. “Namjoonie showed me the photo Jeongguk sent of the swimming pool you guys bought. I’m gonna spend the whole day there, cooling down and sipping on my virgin mojito.”

Yeah, they don’t meet very often and it will probably get even more rare when their pups are born. For sure they will organise some play dates as soon as possible, but the beginnings are probably going to be tough. So it would be nice of Dojoon (and Nari) if he indeed didn’t decide to come out to this world tomorrow.

The swimming pool usually is empty during the day but today there is a group of teenagers fooling around in three pool lanes. It immediately reminds Taehyung about the kids in the shopping mall and their attempts at flirting. He giggles at the thought of his silly boyfriend and his face covered with ice cream. He really misses him like crazy. Maybe it was a bad idea to leave the house, he wishes he was in his nest now.

But he is here now, so he goes on with his updated routine for the next thirty minutes. Only when back in the changing room, Taehyung realises that it might be his last time here before the delivery.

The omega doubts he’s gonna return to his swimming routine once Nari is born but he really enjoyed these sessions. He always felt extra relaxed after them, especially when he combined them with massages, but it seems like a lot of hustle with a little baby around.

When he packs his yellow swimming shorts, he chuckles to himself at the memory of joking with Hoseok on a call in this very changing room about bunny being in her personal yellow submarine and how it was another of the many unexpected encounters with Jeongguk. First one after their car incident and the one where Taehyung found out that Jeongguk bought the seat belt adapter.

It feels like a lifetime ago, yet he was just as pregnant as he is now, with the same pup. Though that didn’t change, his relationship with the alpha definitely changed one eighty.

Jeongguk is not back when he gets home and that immediately sours Taehyung’s mood. It starts to be more and more difficult for him to be away from his alpha and he doesn’t want to imagine how hard these last weeks would be if he’d never met Jeongguk. The mere thought is scary and while he knows that Yoongi would provide all the comfort he can as his head alpha, Taehyung would never exchange what he has now for anything else.

With Bam and Yeontan hot at his heels, he does his routine check if the nursery for sure is ready for Nari’s arrival (it balances on the borderline of obsessiveness but his omega friends assured him on their chat that it’s normal), scents her bunny patterned blankie, making a mental note to tell his boyfriend to do the same when he’s back, and goes to the living room to finally nest.

The whole construction is permeated with Jeongguk scent, which calms Taehyung’s inner omega a bit, and he manages to take a nap, feeling the tiredness after the workout finally catching up on him.

The omega wakes up to the sound of shuffling and being moved around. His eyes widen in alarm but he quickly relaxes when he realises it’s just Jeongguk. The alpha smells freshly showered and already in shorts, his shirt of course long forgotten, which means he must’ve been home for some time already. Huh. Seems like he really needed that nap.

“Shh, go back to sleep,” Jeongguk murmurs behind his ear, when he’s finally settled in the nest. “Just wanted to cuddle with you.”

“Did you do it?” Taehyung asks sleepily and covers the alpha’s big hand, that’s already caressing his belly, with one of his own.

“Yes, the blankie is scented, same with the nest in the bedroom.”

“You are an angel,” he sighs dreamily, making his boyfriend chuckle.

“Just fulfilling my alpha duties.” Jeongguk places a soft kiss on Taehyung’s scent gland. “Did you go to the pool?”

“Mhm. Was bored without you.”

“I’m sorry, pup. I shouldn’t be called in anytime soon. I talked with my boss and we agreed that I will join our meetings online for the time being and if someone is needed on site, it will be someone else.”

“And you won’t get in trouble?”

“Cute,” the alpha chuckles and starts his scenting ritual. “No, it’s a normal policy in my company to allow an alpha to work from home, so he can assist his mate and be with his pup when they’re born. I wrapped up all my big projects to the point I can just supervise them and I will support others only when needed and when I have the capacity.”

Taehyung knows all that. They’ve talked about Jeongguk’s work arrangements many times, as the alpha wanted to be there for Taehyung when he’s struggling with the last weeks of pregnancy and also to equally take care of Nari when she’s finally born. Thankfully, nowadays working from home is nothing extraordinary and it allows Jeongguk to be there for his omega and pup without being forced to take a leave (probably unpaid if he wanted it to be this long). Of course, he will take some time off when the pup is born to be there 24/7 but for now these terms are perfect for the couple.

So yes, Taehyung knows all that, but he doesn’t complain listening to the explanation once again, as Jeongguk’s quiet voice, combined with continuous scenting, puts him into that pleasant state of patchouli high.

Jeongguk’s actions are methodic. When Taehyung’s neck doesn’t smell like himself anymore, now instead “reeking of the alpha”, as Jimin would call it, he moves down, nosing at his swollen breasts in an intimate manner. There the scent of milk is the most prominent and drives Jeongguk absolutely crazy. He stays there for some time, indulging himself in it, in the knowledge that his omega is with child, his child, and that they will finally welcome their little daughter soon.

When the alpha is satisfied, he shimmies down even more so he can finally reach the baby bump to plant a kiss there and as during most of such instances, he’s welcomed with a kick in the hand. Clearly Taehyung’s not the only one who enjoys the scenting sessions the alpha indulges them in.

Jeongguk pays a thorough attention to the task at hand and noses around the belly for a few minutes, scenting, kissing and whispering entire litanies of sweet, loving words. Their daughter is not born yet and she’s already the love of two people’s lives. She’s the most adored pup in the world, the most yearned for and wished for and the day she chooses to greet them will be the happiest day of her parents’ lives.

And there are so many more people waiting for her. The uncles from her appa’s pack, uncles from her daddy’s squad, and all the uncles and aunts her appa befriended while sharing their pregnancy journey together. She is to be the last one to be born out of all the pups, a maknae, as Taehyung’s omega friends jokingly nicknamed her, and set to be so, so spoiled.

“I love you, my pups,” Jeongguk whispers against the bump and with the last kiss, goes back to his place behind Taehyung. He leans over the omega, so he can kiss this pup, too. “So much.”

So much.

They gather everything and the two dogs on Tuesday morning and drive to the pack house for the National Liberation Day celebrations. Seokjin with Namjoon and Jeongguk’s squad are going to join them in the early afternoon but the couple wanted to help with all the preparations.

Jeongguk is especially excited about it as the first thing on the agenda is assembling the pool together, and he hums happily to the "Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again" soundtrack for the entire ride. From what Taehyung understood from his boyfriend’s babbling during the shower, he and Yoongi hyung decided to do it as soon as they get to the pack house, before the weather gets too hot and because apparently, it’s gonna take quite some time to fill the pool with water.

And that’s exactly what happens when they arrive. Jeongguk brings all their stuff and the two alphas get to work right away, leaving the omegas in charge of finishing what Yoongi didn’t manage to do in the kitchen. Most of the meat is already marinated in the fridge, together with nicely plated side dishes. The only things left to prepare are the ones brought by Taehyung and Jeongguk on Yoongi’s order. The alpha forbade them doing anything with the ingredients, just to bring them with themselves.

So while the pregnant omega sits on a bar stool at the counter and tries to steal some snacks that are within his arms reach, Jimin and Hoseok slowly work on the rest of the food.

“This is the last time I’m agreeing on such a big party,” Jimin grumbles under his nose, while cutting yet another carrot. “Why does your future mate have to have so many friends, Taehyungie?”

“I guess it’s his very loveable nature,” Taehyung answers with a shrug. “It’s not like you don’t love him.”

“I do but I would appreciate it if having him in our lives wouldn’t mean that we need to feed seven additional alphas. That overgrown bunny already eats like three men. At least!”

“You’re being overdramatic. Everyone said they will bring something, you didn’t have to prepare so much.”

“Tell that to Yoongi hyung,” Jimin scoffs. “His head alpha instincts kicked in hard and he didn’t want to listen to anyone. He behaves as if our pack suddenly grew bigger.”

Taehyung moves nervously at those words. This might not be as far-fetched as Jimin thinks.

Last night Jeongguk confessed to Taehyung, that he would like to become an official part of the pack before Nari is born and was planning to talk with Yoongi about it before the official celebrations but first he wanted to make sure if Taehyung doesn’t mind and if it was something that he wanted.

It was a silly question, of course Taehyung wanted that but at the beginning he couldn’t confirm anything, as he started to cry, overwhelmed with emotions and overpowering love for his boyfriend. When he finally gave his approval, once he managed to calm down a bit, Jeongguk looked as if Christmas came earlier this year, his entire face lit up and Taehyung’s beloved bunny smile appeared. He probably suspected that this is going to be the omega’s answer but he was clearly still worried if he’s not wrong. Taehyung can understand that. Everything is so perfect lately that it kinda doesn’t feel real and sometimes you just wait anxiously for things to start to go downhill.

“What is it?”

Taehyung flinches, pulled out from his reverie by Hoseok’s voice. He looks at his friends and is met with two inquisitive pairs of eyes.

“I-”

He doesn’t get a chance to come up with any explanation and he’s interrupted by an opening terrace door and two alphas walking back in the house from the garden.

“Come here, pups.” Yoongi beckons them with a nod.

The trio exchange confused looks and leave the kitchen to join them in the living room.

“What happened?” Jimin immediately stands next to his mate and takes his hand, sensing the serious mood of the alpha.

Taehyung locks his eyes with Jeongguk and a happy glint that he sees, makes his heart skip a beat. He had a feeling what all this might mean but now he’s even more sure.

“We had a serious talk with Jeongguk,” Yoongi explains. “And it turns out that the both of us have been thinking about the same thing lately and I know that Taehyungie already expressed his stance, but I would like to ask you two as well.”

“Ask about what?”

“We are a family and all family matters go through all four of us. Jeongguk and Taehyung are not mated yet, they are still courting, but Jeongguk would like to officially join our pack.” There’s a short pause, so Jimin and Hoseok can digest the news. “Your thoughts?”

“Well…” Jimin starts slowly, first briefly glancing at Taehyung and then at his boyfriend. “I guess this one time we can turn blind eye to the fact that they live in a sin-” Hobi and Jeongguk snort, while Yoongi and Taehyung roll their eyes with fond smiles. “-and take this baby alpha under our wings.”

“Thank you, Jimin-ssi,” Jeongguk says teasingly and bows with a flair. “Your support as a head alpha’s consort means a lot.”

“Awww, you’re such a babe,” Hoseok coos and throws his arm around the alpha’s shoulder. “I wanna adopt you, too.”

“Thanks, hyung.” And there it is - that bunny smile makes another appearance. “I was hoping you’d say that.”

“You were hoping I’d want to adopt you?”

“You know what I mean!”

“Leave my baby alone,” Taehyung interrupts before they stray too much from the subject matter. He turns to Yoongi. “Hyung?”

“Tae-ah,” the alpha smiles softly at him. “Guk told me you two talked and even though I already know your answer, I need to ask officially. Do you want Jeongguk to join our pack?”

“Yes.”

Maybe he should be embarrassed of how fast his response is but he really doesn’t have to think about it. For him and his omega, they are already a family, Jeongguk’s been part of their pack for a long time now, even if it was never officially established.

“Great. It’s not really complicated but might be a bit uncomfortable for you,” Yoongi starts and the other alpha nods in acknowledgement. “You need to submit to me, accept me as your alpha and let me scent you. Then Jiminie will scent you, then Hobi-ah and Taehyungie at the end. Me and Taehyung started this pack and with his scenting the rite will be completed. All clear?”

“Sure.” The alpha shrugs and just like that, bares his neck in front of Yoongi in submission.

“Just like this?” Jimin stares in shock as his mate starts the ritual and Jeongguk doesn’t even flinch. “Doesn’t it make you uncomfortable?”

“I said before that I would accept hyung as my alpha,” Jeongguk explains, while patiently waiting for the first scenting to finish.

The omega sends Taehyung an impressed look and he can only smile shyly in return. The conviction in Jeongguk’s voice makes him feel a lot of things, including the comeback of a swarm of butterflies in his belly. He’s so giddy when Jimin and then Hoseok do their part, he struggles to stay put and wait for his turn. His omega is also overly excited, stomping in place and wagging his tail like some lapdog. The wolf’s so hyped, he doesn’t even care about the insult directed at him.

“Pup?” Jeongguk looks at him expectantly and Taehyung almost trips over his feet with how fast he waddles to him.

The alpha catches him safely in his arms with a quiet, endeared laugh. “Easy there, tiger,” he whispers and caresses the baby bump. “You’ve got a precious cargo with you.”

The writer blushes, a bit embarrassed with his eagerness but one of his amazing abilities is getting over shame quickly, so the next moment he flashes his boxy smile and leans in to complete the rite. He stops close to the scent gland, almost getting dizzy from the concoction of his favourite scents. Smells like pack.

The omega breathes in deeply and raises his eyes, to confirm one last time, “Are you sure?”

It’s not like this is permanent and can’t be undone, Jeongguk could leave a pack whenever he wants or he could be kicked out, but such a case would mean that all five of them would forever have this sense of emptiness, like something is constantly missing. The outcast probably more than the rest of the pack.

Jeongguk knows that, Taehyung told him, but the revelation didn’t sway the alpha’s confidence even for a second. There was no doubt before and there’s still none, when he says, “Absolutely.”

So Taehyung kisses the side of his neck and then nuzzles his nose in the alpha’s scent gland. He’s working methodically, scenting his boyfriend thoroughly, feeling the bond coming to life in his veins. 

He gets so engrossed in the task at hand, he doesn’t register how his friends lead them to the couch and all five settle in the nest. He keeps scenting the alpha, while the other three arrange them in one big pile of wolves, everyone overwhelmed with a forming bond. They snuggle until the feeling simmers down and their spirits settle.

“Wow,” Jeongguk finally whispers and Taehyung can hear how affected he is. “This is…”

“Nice?”

“Incredible,” the alpha whispers and pulls Taehyung closer to himself with one arm, the other hand reaching out for the closest hand, Hoseok’s, resting on his shoulder. “I’ve never felt something like this…”

“Yeah, it feels stronger than the previous times,” Jimin mumbles and nuzzles Jeongguk’s hair. “Do you know why?”

“I think it’s because more people had to bond together with Guk,” Yoongi muses. “And we formed our pack almost in one go, our bonds were not as strong as they are now so maybe they didn’t affect us that much back then. I don’t know, it’s just my wild guess.”

“I don’t care what’s the reason,” Hoseok comments sleepily. “It might be it or maybe Jeonggukie just really fits in our pack.”

“He was basically part of it even before the ritual,” Jimin adds.

“He was already a family,” Taehyung whispers and they fall silent after this.

The omega’s almost asleep, when he feels Jeongguk hugging him a bit tighter. 

“I love you, pup,” he whispers softly.

And the last soft kiss placed on his temple finally sends Taehyung to sleep.

They are woken up by an incessant ringing of the doorbell. The whole pack looks around groggily, still out of it and not understanding what’s happening. At last, after a few seconds, Yoongi untangles himself from the mess of limbs and goes to let the guests in.

Soon enough the house and the garden are filled with people, some grilling the food, some playing with dogs and some watching over the pool which is almost ready to be jumped into.

Taehyung has just finished telling Seokjin what happened before they arrived and the omega seems genuinely happy about the news. The two of them, forbidden to do anything, sit at the table and talk while eating pumpkin ice cream. Taehyung really appreciates the way his head alpha included this week’s fruit in the menu. It’s perfect for this scorching heat.

“It’s amazing, Taehyung-ah. It’s hard to believe you started this pregnancy alone.”

“He was never alone,” Jimin chimes in as he places platters of kimchi on the table. “He had the three of us.”

“You know what I mean,” Seokjin tuts with a roll of his eyes. “I’m just saying that his life has changed a lot since then. And bunny is not even born yet!”

“And she won’t be for a little bit more,” the writer sighs. “What about you, hyung? Can you feel it  coming?”

“There are no symptoms yet, though my omega’s getting more and more restless. I have an inkling we’ll hold our little rascal by the end of this week.”

“Oh my,” Jimin sizes him up warily, as if the man was about to pop out the pup the next second. “That sounds scary. How are you feeling?”

“Scared, obviously. But mostly excited. And Joonie is going absolutely crazy, one would think it’s him who will have to push a 4 kg baby out of his ass.”

The three omegas snort and look at the aforementioned alpha, just to discover him throwing nervous glances at them every few seconds. Namjoon is in the group with Yugyeom, Eunwoo and Jaehyun, all of them supervising the pool, already almost filled with water. Apparently the four alphas are a bit clumsy and it’s better to keep them far away from the barbeque grill.

“And how was your baby shower?” Taehyung wonders and Seokjin immediately groans at the memory.

“Boring. We didn’t want a party but Namjoon’s family insisted. Mine too. It’s ‘in fashion’ right now, so we went, ate, got gifts and then we pretended to ‘pull Susanna’ and ran away from there.”

Taehyung bursts out laughing while Jimin demands the explanation of what that term means.

“What’s so funny?”

The omega looks up, to see his boyfriend hovering over them with a big bunny smile. And smelling like pack. Like family.

“Jinnie-hyung didn’t enjoy his baby shower and they pretended to go into labour to run away.”

“Ahh…” Jeongguk nods with a solemn expression. “Fake ‘pulling Susanna’, classic. Though I can't really relate, our baby shower was awesome.” He grins and leans down to kiss Taehyung’s forehead. The omega’s scent spikes with happiness and Nari kicks her little foot.

“Well, well, look at you two,” Mingyu joins them at the table, a pink apron wrapped around his waist, holding tongs he uses to flip the meat. Everyone looks at him. “Who would have guessed that thanks to Jeongguk’s quick visit in the clinic for a little rendezvous with his right hand in a small room, a love story like this would be possible a few years later?” 

The alpha pretends to wipe away a tear while the rest of their friends cackle, not caring about Jeongguk’s embarrassment.

“Even though it sounds really bad-“

“You called your sperm ‘your guys’, you really can’t judge,” Jimin interrupts, making Hoseok laugh louder.

“Hey, I loved that! And you use this term as well!” Taehyung starts to argue but Jeongguk covers his mouth with his hand.

“ As I was saying, even though it sounds really bad, I’m happy I did it.” He kisses Taehyung’s temple once again, making him melt against him. “And that I went for that cursed microwave shopping.”

Everyone coos at that, because at this point all of them know that the youngest alpha is utterly terrified of that particular kitchen appliance and that memorable visit in a mall was nerve racking for him for more than one reason.

They start to gather at the table when Yoongi announces that the meat is almost ready. It’s loud and chaotic but Taehyung wouldn’t have it any other way. He hasn’t had too many occasions to spend time with his alpha’s friends but he grew to like them dearly and it always warms his heart to see Jeongguk so genuinely happy.

And the six alphas fit in with the omega’s own friends right away. Soon enough they all bicker around who is going to be the most favourite uncle of Nari and listening to their crazy ideas how they’re going to win the pup over, just makes Taehyung’s day. Even Mitchie, Chris’ new girlfriend, seems to enjoy herself, despite meeting all of them for the first time.

After late lunch they play rock paper scissors to decide on turns of going to the pool because regardless of buying a huge one, it’s still not big enough to fit in everyone at the same time.

“At least Tannie and Bamie don’t have this problem,” Seokjin sighs and shrieks the next second, when the water splashes at him when Mingyu joins the two dogs.

“I don’t think it’s intended for wolves,” Jimin points out with amusement.

“That’s why Gyu fits right in, the certified mutt,” Jeongguk snickers, joining them freshly out of the pool. He wraps himself around Taehyung, bringing some relief from the heat with his cold, wet skin.

“Fuck off, Jeon.”

“Tsk, don’t swear, a pup is here,” the alpha hisses and with hands under the baby bump, he gently lifts the belly up. It’s something he started to do lately and Taehyung loves the little support. Now so close to the d-day it really makes a difference, even if for a short time.

“You act as if you didn’t curse.” Mingyu rolls his eyes. “But fine. Only because I care about Nari, not that I care about your whims.”

“So charming.”

“Taehyungie,” Seokjin interrupts before the two men can get too immersed in their bickering. “Check the chat.”

“I left my phone at the table.” Taehyung points lazily at the terrace, too comfortable in his alpha’s arms to move. “What’s going on?”

“Apparently everyone from our birth class decided to spontaneously meet and celebrate together with all the pups and they wanted to know if we’d like to join.”

“They can just come here,” Jimin offers. “We still have lots of food and I want to hold babies again.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, text them, hyung.” Taehyung smiles and adds as the afterthought, “Do you realise that next time we’ll meet, our pups will be with us, too?”

The two pregnant omegas look at their bellies simultaneously. One of Jeongguk’s hands travels up to caress the bump lovingly.

“I can’t wait,” the alpha whispers, just for Taehyung’s ears.

They stay quiet for some time, observing Mingyu playing with dogs and laughing at Yeontan, who as predicted absolutely hates the sprinkles that activate from time to time. 

At some point, Yoongi joins them to tell Jimin he can go to the pool now but before the omega can happily run away, Jeongguk turns to him with a smirk.

“So, Jimin-ssi, I’ve been wondering, if Yoongi-hyung is my head alpha now, does that mean that you are my Luna?”

And Taehyung knows Jeongguk knows very well that they do not keep this tradition, the only actually distinguished position in the pack being the one of the head of the family, so he is also aware Jeongguk is only doing that to mess with his best friend. And it must work, because Jimin gets all flustered in the record time.

“I- I- No, Jeonggukie, I’m not Luna-”

“But aren’t you the mate of the head alpha? It makes you Luna, no?”

The wink sent to Taehyung when he looks at his boyfriend serves only as a confirmation for Taehyung that yes, his boyfriend is being a little shit, making some fun of the poor omega, knowing that his primary instincts will react to it profusely.

“Aish, Yoongi-hyung, I think Gukkie unlocked a new kink in your husband, good luck,” Taehyung playfully shoves his friend’s shoulder and Seokjin bursts out laughing.

“Shut up, you brat,” Yoongi retorts with his typical eye roll.

It’s all just for shits and giggles but Taehyung is sure he sees the two later, Yoongi whispering “My Luna” in Jimin’s ear.

Whatever gives them kicks.

Not so long later, another group arrives and the garden gets even more lively. After the introductions, as expected, the whole attention turns to five pups. The alphas’ squad appear to be the most smitten, none of them able to handle the cuteness of the babies. They are too scared to carry them and only Eunwoo gathers courage and rocks Minjee in his arms, under a watchful gaze of Soobin.

Taehyung himself is once again enamoured with the twins. “A double cuteness” as Jackson likes to jokingly call them but the omega couldn’t agree more. He wishes to hug both of them at the same time, like their parents do, but he doesn’t feel skillful enough to hold two pups, with a big baby bump of his own at that.

He looks around and can’t help but feel a bit emotional. There’s Yoongi and Hoseok, talking with Jackson and Woosung animatedly; the whole alphas’ squad, including Eunwoo, cooing above the stroller with sleeping Sujin; Vicky and Susanna getting to know Chris’ new girlfriend; Felix and Yeonjun rocking their pups while Hyunjin with Soobin watch them fondly; and Seokjin and Namjoon helping Jimin to clean the table, so the newcomers can eat comfortably. 

Last, but not least, he looks to his right and smiles seeing his alpha, frowning at the piece of samgyeopsal he tried straight off the grill, while turning the meat. He was with Taehyung before, holding one twin while the omega held another and they kept sending each other knowing smiles, exchanging kisses, so full of love and anticipation for what’s to come.

There’s so many people around him and except for his small pack, everyone came to his life thanks to a crazy decision he made one day. Thanks to the greatest gift the fate granted him with.

Thanks to his daughter. 

And she is going to be here soon, too. 

This, his dream coming true, is now well within his reach. Just a couple more days. A few more days and he’s going to hold her, just like he’s holding Sohee at this very moment, kiss her and spoil rotten. Together with all her uncles and aunts. 

And father.

Chapter Text

The whole concept of Nari being the size of the weekly fruit never felt more real for Taehyung than in the final stage of pregnancy. When he arrives in the 38th week, he really feels like he was carrying a watermelon inside of himself. Like a fruit smuggler, not smart at that, with how visible the huge bump under his shirt was. Huge and heavy.

At the same time he is grateful that watermelon is such a refreshing fruit as the temperatures in the second half of august don't cool down. The omega spends most of his days nesting and eating, while the nights bring little to no sleep. Though Taehyung found his favourite remedy for his insomnia, which starts with waking his alpha up and railing him up to the point Jeongguk literally fucks him into sleep.

It is also one of his methods to try and induce labour. They keep going at it like rabbits and his boyfriend jokes that this pregnancy seems more like a very long heat.

Taehyung doesn’t find it funny.

Little Dojoon was born two days after the National Liberation Day and while Taehyung absolutely loves a photo spam Seokjin’s been flooding him with, he is also getting more and more jealous.

All of his friends already have their pups and he is still waiting because his little princess doesn’t seem to be interested in coming out any time soon. Jeongguk claims it’s because she feels so safe and loved inside Taehyung, she wants to enjoy it as long as possible because she will have to come out at some point and with no way to go back.

These sweet reassurances make up a bit for all his poor jokes.

Due to the nearing due date, the frequency of his control visits increased in August and now they go to the clinic every week. So when on Watermelon Thursday doctor Song announces that there are no symptoms yet that the labour is near, Taehyung gets even more determined to do everything in his power to speed up the process a bit.

Therefore they have even more sex now and when they are not wrapped between the sheets, Taehyung goes on trips up and down the stairs in their building. This way he met a lot of their neighbours and he gained a new nickname - a marathoner. Elderly omegas smile fondly at him and invite him for a glass of lemonade whenever they run into him. A halmeoni from the fourth floor even started to prepare a watermelon lemonade, just for him.

Taehyung can’t deny that he enjoys all the coddling thoroughly, from the grannies, his friends (Yoongi calls him every single day, asking about his well being and offering to bring food) and especially from his boyfriend. But as much as he loves being spoiled, he wishes his daughter to just come out of him already.

Apparently, bunny doesn’t plan on being born in the watermelon week and when Taehyung’s going to sleep on Sunday night, he thinks that maybe he should’ve chosen c-section after all. Of course he doesn’t regret his decision but at least right now he wouldn’t have to live in such anticipation.

The new week, past the fruit scale, starts rather unpleasantly. On Monday morning everything is fine, the day goes by without any surprises but not long after lunch, Taehyung starts to feel nauseous. It’s nothing like the morning sickness he experienced in the first trimester but it still makes him uncomfortable enough to stay in his nest in the living room the entire afternoon and whine.

“I am about to give birth, I can’t also have some stomach bug,” he sobs, when Jeongguk brings him a bowl of plain rice, so he can try to eat it. He is so hungry but his stomach is still upset and they don’t want to risk anything more difficult to digest.

“I know, my love. Maybe it’s just something we ate for lunch, everything was supposed to be fresh but I guess you never know.” Jeongguk looks at him with pain in his eyes, as if the sight of Taehyung like this was hurting him deeply.

“But you feel well…”

“I’m sorry, honey.”

“You have nothing to be sorry for, Gukkie. I’m just whining because I am so tired of all this,” the omega sighs. “Everything will be so much better when she’s already here.”

“I can’t wait for it, too.” Jeongguk smiles and leans in to kiss the belly, where Nari is doing her daily acrobatics. It’s much more difficult for her these days, she’s grown too big to comfortably stretch and she often kicks places Taehyung didn’t know a baby could reach in a man’s body.

The rice calmed down Taehyung’s stomach enough so he is able to watch a movie with Jeongguk but as soon as the ending credits roll on the screen, he springs up from the couch and waddles to the bathroom as fast as he can.

He barely reaches the toilet before he’s puking for what feels like hours. Jeongguk ran after him right away and he’s been caressing his back the entire time. That combined with calming pheromones and soothing words, helped the omega go through it a bit easier.

They assume it must’ve been all because of lunch and after a quick shower, Taehyung decides to just go to sleep, exhausted after all day of being nauseous. Jeongguk of course joined him in bed, for their family time and extra scenting, to make it up to Taehyung for the hard day.

The omega falls asleep almost instantly, thankful that at least the usual insomnia gives him a break, to gather strength for another day.

Taehyung wakes up with a gasp. He sits up and looks around, not sure what exactly woke him up. On his left he sees Jeongguk with a book closed on his chest and the glasses crooked cutely. The light on the nightstand is still on and after checking the time, the omega realises it’s only a bit after 10 p.m.

With a groan he rolls out of bed and goes to the bathroom, slowly, still mindful of the sensitive stomach after the whole day of pain, crowned with a throw up session. When he opens the door to go back to bed, Bam is already waiting for him and whimpers quietly.

“Hey, baby,” the omega scratches the dog behind his ears. “What’s going on? Do you need a walk?”

He moves in the direction of the entry hall but the dog doesn’t even react when he grabs the leash so Taehyung assumes it must be something else. The two go back to the bedroom and Taehyung takes off his boyfriend’s glasses and puts it together with a book on the bedside table. He turns off the light and when finally lies down, he can feel it.

It is not strong, just barely there but he surely feels it.

A contraction.

Taehyung stops breathing for a second but it is gone almost as soon as it appears. Bam walks in a circle before he finally drops to the floor with a whimper and a huff at Taehyung’s feet.

The omega’s heart beats rapidly and his mind reels from the possibilities of what it might mean. He doesn’t rule out that it could be just a false alarm and he’s not going to wake Jeongguk up if it turns out it’s nothing serious. He tries to remember what doctor Song said to do in such a situation, the stories of his friends and what he himself read in books and online, to prepare himself for labour.

If another contraction was what woke him up in the first place, he’s been up for long enough to know that the baby isn’t coming any minute now, so he shouldn’t panic yet. His waters also didn’t break so there’s no need to rush to the hospital. It wouldn’t mean immediate labour either, but they would have to go to not risk any infection.

A bit conflicted about what to do, Taehyung looks at the floor, where Bam calmly lies, guarding him. The dog clearly instinctually feels something is happening but he doesn’t seem too nervous yet.

A few more minutes pass with nothing happening, Taehyung decides it's best to just try to sleep as long as possible because if this is not a false alarm, he’s going to need more strength than ever.

The omega wakes up once again with a gasp and now he knows for certain what was the cause, as the contraction doesn’t stop for a few more seconds. It’s not too painful, it feels a bit like cramps he has during early stages of heat, but it is still not great. When it finally goes away, Taehyung notices Bam, who rested his big head on the bed and looks at him with big, understanding eyes.

“Bamie,” he chuckles quietly. “Do you think that it’s time?” He is answered with a faint wag of tail. “Yeah, I think so too.”

It is almost 2am and the omega decides to wait for another contraction, which comes around 20 minutes later. He tries to catch some more sleep, because he is still tired and he knows that there is still a long way to go. His calmness surprises him but he guesses that it’s better than to go into a full panic mode.

After a few short naps, each interrupted by another contraction, he decides it’s time to finally wake the alpha daddy up. The last contraction was a bit more intense and he started to get both more excited and nervous, similar for the two dogs at his feet. Yeontan joined the warding party some time ago, and Taehyung can hear his quiet whimpers coming from the floor every time another tightening comes.

“Ohhh, my little baby,” he coos at the belly, caressing it for a few seconds, trying to savour the last opportunity to do so before all the chaos ensues. “You made up your mind, huh?”

The omega promised to carry her all the way and she would choose the day when she’s prepared to greet him.* And it seems like she is finally ready.

Taehyung looks at his peacefully sleeping lover, feeling slightly bad that he’s going to interrupt his rest but he knows that Jeongguk wants to be there every step of the way and Taehyung also wants to share this experience together.

“Jeongguk,” he whispers, shaking the alpha delicately, to not scare him too much. “Jeongguk!”

“Hmm?” The man stirs and opens his eyes slowly. He looks at Taehyung and a dopey smile blooms on his sleepy face. “Hi, baby, are you ok?”

“Jeongguk, I think the pup is coming.”

“What?” the alpha sits up immediately, suddenly fully awake. “Are you sure? Do you have contractions? Did your water break? Is she fine, is she moving?”

“I am not sure but, ugh-” Taehyung’s interrupted by another contraction. It is not too strong but it still manages to take his breath away for a second.

“We need to go to the hospital.”

Even before he finishes this sentence, Jeongguk is already out of bed, throwing a t-shirt on himself and going to the closet for pants.

“Gukkie, we don’t need to rush, the contractions are still quite far apart,” Taehyung tries to calm him down but the head that peeks out at him is everything but calm.

“It started some time ago?”

“Yeah, like around 10 p.m or so.”

The alpha checks the watch and gasps. “That’s over four hours ago! And you’re waking me up only now?!”

“I was still sleeping, too. I was napping between contractions, trying to rest as much as possible.”

“I can’t believe you didn’t wake me up, we should’ve been in hospital hours ago!”

“No, we shouldn’t.” Taehyung rolls his eyes and smiles fondly at his concerned boyfriend. “She’s still not out yet which means it’s ok. The established labour hasn’t even started yet. My water didn’t break and I can feel her moving. I promise, we have time.”

“How can you be this calm?” Jeongguk finally returns the smile, though small, and walks to the bed to kneel in front of Taehyung. “I already did a check of all the possible routes to the hospital in my head and I’m a second away from grabbing and carrying you downstairs to the car.”

The omega laughs cheerfully, endeared by the words. “I am surprised myself, to be honest. But I think I want to take a bath.”

“A bath?” Jeongguk looks at him incredulously.

“Yeah, it’s supposed to help with pain.” When the alpha still seems conflicted, Taehyung cups his face between his hands. “Baby, you’ve been awake for some time and I had only one contraction. It’s still hours away, maybe days, who knows, and I really prefer to be at home for as long as possible.”

The doe eyes search him attentively and what they see must be convincing enough, because after a few seconds Jeongguk sighs and nods.

“Fine. I’m gonna trust you but the moment it gets worse, we’re going to the hospital.”

“Deal.”

Jeongguk prepares the bath and all the time grumbles under his nose how lame Taehyung is, when the omega relaxes in the water.

“We were supposed to rush out of the house! I practised grabbing the bag and flying out of the door to call the elevator. I know the best way to the hospital for probably any case possible, traffic, accident - anything. This is so… anticlimactic.” He pouts at the end and Taehyung laughs, a bit breathlessly as another contraction just passed.

“I am sorry that my pain is not exciting enough for you, I should be suffering much more soon, don’t worry,” he jokes, just to tease his boyfriend a little.

“You know this is not what I mean,” the alpha whines and they keep bickering for some time until even Jeongguk appears to calm down a little. 

It is exactly what Taehyung wanted from him. Because he might be calm now but he knows that when the labour really kicks in, he will not be able to think clearly and he needs Jeongguk to be fully coherent. Not that he really believes he wouldn’t get there on his own if he saw that Taehyung panics but it helps the omega to see now that he can count on his partner to be collected when he’ll fail to be.

Turns out that they have perfect timing because right when they are about to leave the bathroom and go back to bed to try to rest some more, Taehyung freezes and grabs Jeongguk’s arms with surprising strength.

The alpha looks at him questioningly, expecting to hear that it’s another contraction and gets a bit worried when he sees a panic in the omega’s eyes.

“I-” Taehyung gulps. “I think my water just broke.”

After all, Jeongguk has his cool moment of driving to the hospital like he imagined. Taehyung tries to convince him that it still doesn’t mean that he has to rush through the Seoul streets and that they have time, that Nari is not going to pop out of him in a car but all his reasoning falls on deaf ears. The alpha is focused on the road and when they arrive, Taehyung is genuinely impressed with how quick the trip was.

He says so to his boyfriend and the man preens at the praise. He’s so cute…

The train of thought is interrupted by another contraction, this one a bit longer and more intense. It takes Taehyung by surprise and maybe because of that, he feels the first rush of panic start to kick in.

“Pup?”

“I- I’m fine,” the omega wheezes out, short of breath and in pain.

“You’re not. I shouldn’t have trusted you. Should’ve just bring you here right away-”

“No, no, no. I felt good at home, safe in the nest,” he whimpers, suddenly realising. “There won’t be our nest over there…”

“We will build a new one, love, we have all the supplies with us, remember?” Jeongguk holds up the hospital bag they prepared a few weeks ago and that Taehyung obsessively checked a thousand times since then. “Now breathe, pup. In~ yes, that’s right, you’re doing so well, baby! aaaaand out~” Jeongguk breathes out, walking him through the process a couple more times, releasing calming pheromones, until the contraction goes away. “Let’s go.”

Fortunately the omega doctor, doctor Choi, who was assigned as a substitute for doctor Song in case Taehyung would react badly for the beta, has a night shift that day and she helps with their registration and performs all checks. She informs them that the baby will not come for at least a couple of hours and by that time, their doctor will be already here as he starts a morning shift soon.

It all starts to be a bit blurry for Taehyung. The pain slowly intensifies but for a long time it’s nothing that he couldn’t survive, especially with his alpha and his lovely, soothing scent.

Jeongguk builds a nest for him while doctor Choi patiently explains to them the next steps and what they should expect to happen based on the checks she did.

By the time doctor Song arrives at the hospital, Taehyung is in a lot more pain and starts to regret his life choices, like deciding on a natural childbirth. The first thing his doctor does is to schedule an epidural administration for the omega, when the time comes. It will be slightly different than it would be if he were a female omega and it’s not gonna help Taehyung as much but he will take any kind of relief. If he feels like this before the real thing starts, he doesn’t want to know what pain awaits him.

Thankfully he reacts well to doctor Song, his omega calm and trusting towards the man who led their entire pregnancy, so doctor Choi still stays around to check on them from time to time but most of the time she attends other patients.

“Oh my Luna, this is a nightmare,” Taehyung sobs. “I’m not letting you put any more bunnies in me.”

Jeongguk laughs quietly and scents the omega thoroughly.

A few more hours passed and it’s already nearing noon. Nari takes her sweet time and it seems that she’s going to put her appa through an experience.

“It’s fine pup, whatever you want. You already did much more than I could ever ask for,” Jeongguk assures and helps him change a position for the umpteenth time.

“Why did I do this to myself? I could’ve just gone with a c-section, why did I have to be so cheeky?”

“You were not cheeky, you just felt that this is the right way.”

“Well, clearly I was fucking stupid.”

“How about you stop insulting yourself, hm? Do you want another-”

“Where is hyung?” Taehyung screams when another contraction comes, stronger than the previous one.

The alpha texted their pack some time ago and they were going to come as soon as possible but their trip to the hospital takes more time from different parts of the city where they work and in the middle of a day on Tuesday. Taehyung demanded a presence of his head alpha after waking up from one of his half minute naps, sore beyond any measure. His omega became restless without the scent of the pack and Taehyung knew that he can’t deal with both labour and that whining bitch in him.

He also knows that scenting will help him survive all this. The epidural was already admitted and it did alleviate the pain at the moment but right now it’s hard to believe it could be even worse. 

Doctor Song comes to check on them again and they immediately know that something changed.

“We will be going soon to the delivery room, the dilation is almost there and everything sped up. I’ll be back in a few minutes and we will transport you.”

“Oh my Luna,” Taehyung whispers and looks at his boyfriend with big eyes. “It’s here.”

“She’ll be here soon, pup,” Jeongguk whispers back with a huge grin. “I am so proud of you, my love. You’re doing so well.”

“She’s coming, Gukkie, our baby is-” he stops with a scream and that’s when their packmates burst through the door, all dishevelled and with red faces from rushing through the hospital corridors.

“Taetae!” Jimin cries out and reaches the bed in long strides.

“You are a hero, babe,” Hoseok joins in and stands next to the omega. “Doctor Song told us it’s here, we came just in time to see you.”

But Taehyung ignores both of them and reaches out to Yoongi with a sob. “Hyung…”

“I’m here, little one,” the head alpha soothes and the other two make space for him, so he can reach Taehyung and scent him. “I am so proud of you, Taehyung-ah.”

“Will you scent her after Jeongguk?” The omega asks with pleading eyes. 

He realised on the way to the hospital that in the end he’d never asked Yoongi to scent Nari when she’s born. He was so focused on the dilemma of choosing a birth partner that it slipped his mind, which was not very hard with his pregnancy brain. Of course, it was obvious that Yoongi will scent her eventually, a pup needs to be scented by a head alpha to become part of the pack, but Taehyung wanted to do it officially. It meant too much to him and he knew that it meant just as much to his hyung.

“Of course, pup,” the alpha smiles his gummy smile and scents Taehyung a bit more. “I will be right here waiting for all three of you.”

“Good,” Taehyung breathes out and that’s when doctor Song comes back.

“Ok, let’s get you your pup, Taehyung-ssi.”

If all the hours in hospital were a bit hazy, the labour itself is a total blur for Taehyung.

He senses his distressed omega, he feels pain and smells his mate next to him, he hears his encouraging words and instructions from the doctor but he has no idea if all of it lasts minutes, hours or maybe days. It for sure feels like very long days but then, just when he’s crying to Jeongguk that he can’t, that he’s just too tired, that he wants it all to stop - he hears,

“Last push!”

And he cries, because he can’t but Jeongguk tells him that he can and they do a breathing exercise together and after a few seconds that feel like forever, he pushes for the last time.

“I won’t do this anymore,” the omega babbles. “I can’t, cut me and take her out because I just can’t…”

“Tae,” Jeongguk breathes out and something in the alpha’s voice makes Taehyung stop his rambling.

And that’s when he hears it.

A cry.

Taehyung whips his head to the side and he sees a nurse coming to him with a screaming tiny body.

He breathes out shakily and with the last sliver of strength lifts his arms to hold that little creature to his chest. The pup in his arms is all red and dirty but she is the most beautiful pup Taehyung’s ever seen and he is gone. 

He has known love before but this… this is so much more.

“Hi,” Taehyung laughs wetly and the crying stops for a second. “I’ve been waiting for you.”

But his happiness doesn’t last long, as the nurse rips his daughter away from him.

“No, no, no, where are they taking her?” The omega whines in panic, extending hands after the pup and Jeongguk kisses his temple reassuringly.

“They need to check if she’s healthy, love. Goddess, Taehyung, she’s perfect, just like you. You are amazing, pup. So, so brave and strong, I feel honoured to be your mate. Thank you, I-” the alpha stops and that’s when Taehyung realises that he’s crying too. “She is everything. I love her so much already and I am not taking her away from them only because I know they need to make sure she’s ok.”

Taehyung hasn’t even noticed when the umbilical cord was cut, still in a post delivery haze and overwhelmed with the power of love and wonder at holding his baby for the first time. And in theory he knows that the medical staff is much more cautious and there are more checks on Nari because he is a male omega, but it doesn’t stop his and his inner wolf’s distress at the separation, no matter how short.

“Ten perfect fingers and ten perfect toes,” doctor Song announces with a big smile, carrying their daughter, now clean with a cute tiny hat and in fresh cloth. The doctor unwraps the baby and places her on Taehyung and the nurse covers the two with a soft blanket. “We will give you a minute.”

The staff leaves the room and the couple hunches above the little bundle in Taehyung’s arms. There’s already a tiny tag on her wrist, matching the ones on Taehyung and Jeongguk.

The omega looks to the side, to see those huge eyes of his boyfriend glued to their pup and with a soft smile he nuzzles Jeongguk’s cheek.

“Scent her,” he whispers.

“Wh-What?” The alpha stammers and looks at Taehyung shocked.

“Scent her. You are her father, she needs to be scented.”

“But- But she’s so tiny, what if my scent is too strong for her and harms her or-”

“Jeonggukie,” the writer stops his rambling with a stern voice. “She loves your scent and it could never hurt her.”

“Okay,” the man breathes out, the tears still streaming down his face, his big eyes staring like a hawk as Taehyung delicately slides the hat off of Nari’s head.. “But you hold her, she’s so small I’m afraid I’m going to break her.”

“You won’t but I will hold her for you. Come on, love.”

And the feelings that burst in Taehyung’s chest seeing his mate scenting the love of their lives for the very first time is something he could never describe. The words might be his source of livelihood, as a writer they are his main tool and he’s always been confident in his craftsmanship, but they fail him at this moment. Seeing the wonder in his daughter's eyes, maybe even a spark of recognition when her alpha father nuzzles the side of her head. To somehow give an outlet to his emotions, Taehyung starts gently caressing the alpha’s nape.

“She’s so soft,” his boyfriend whispers and a blissful smile blooms on his lips. “Her hair feels like peach skin.”

“She’s perfect, isn’t she?”

“She is,” Jeongguk confirms and straightens up to scent the omega. “Just like you.”

Taehyung sighs in relief, relishing in the comfort that wraps around him. The last several hours were exhausting but right now, having his whole world in his arms, he feels the happiest in his entire life. He observes as his lover, a bit clumsily but no less gently, puts a hat back on their daughter’s head, to prevent the heat loss. There’s an infinite love in each of the alpha’s gestures and Taehyung’s inner omega purrs with content, confident in his choice of mate.

It’s way too soon, when the door opens once again and doctor Song walks in. Taehyung still needs to deliver the placenta and the mere thought brings tears to the omega’s eyes.

“No,” he whines and brings Nari closer to his chest. “Gukkie, please, do something.”

“Oh, my love,” Jeongguk looks at him with pain. “If I could, I would, I swear. But I promise that after that it’s done.”

“That’s right, Taehyung-ssi, and I promise it will be much easier and faster than with your little princess. Jeongguk-ssi, are you going to step aside with a pup or stay here?”

“I’ll stay,” the alpha answers without a hesitation.

“Okay, then. Nurse Kang, please take the pup from the patient.”

As promised, the last stage of birth goes by fast. The contractions start almost immediately after Nari is taken away, as if the omega’s body understood that he won’t get the baby back until the work is done. Thankfully, the pain is not as severe, actually it’s barely there and with Jeongguk’s soothing words and scent on top of the exhaustion, Taehyung almost doesn’t notice when it’s all done. It also was just enough time to perform another bunch of necessary checks on Nari and when they bring her back into the omega’s arms, she’s going to stay there for a time being.

Jeongguk left the room for a few minutes to bring happy news to their pack but he didn’t waste time, impatient to return to his pups. When he comes back, Taehyung manages to manoeuvre Nari to his breast and encourages her gently to start feeding. The omega laughs quietly at her attempts which at the beginning are just clumsy licks and the tears spring to his eyes.

She’s really here. She is finally here, with them, in Taehyung’s arms.

“How are you feeling, sweetheart?” Jeongguk asks quietly, taking the duo in his arms, careful to not jostle them and interrupt their daughter's meal.

“Like a train ran over me,” the writer chuckles and rests his head on his boyfriend’s shoulder. “But I’m so happy I don’t even mind.”

“How about you drink something, hm?”

The alpha brings a straw to his lips and Taehyung gups down the water greedily.

“Easy there, tiger. Slowly or you’re gonna be sick. I’m gonna wash you a bit, yeah? You won’t be able to shower for a few hours and I bet you’re uncomfortable after everything.”

“You are the best,” Taehyung sighs with happiness and closes his eyes when a warm cloth is tenderly pressed to his thighs.

The omega relishes in care of his mate, feeling loved and protected, his body slowly relaxing after the exertion of the last hours. He drifts off to sleep and when he wakes up, there is a tiny, makeshift nest around him and Jeongguk gently caresses sleeping Nari’s cheek.

“Gukkie?”

“Hello, Sleeping Beauty,” the alpha greets with a smile and leans in to plant the chaste kiss on his lips. “You two passed out almost at the same time, so cute. I could look at you for hours and I already have like a thousand photos on my phone.”

“You’re so unserious,” Taehyung giggles and smacks his lips. “Water?”

He only took a nap but he feels as if he ran a marathon without a sip of any drink. His body and brain are still catching up with the fatigue and Taehyung is grateful that he has a partner so well prepared, that he caters to all his needs even when he doesn’t ask.

Soon enough, Nari wakes up as well and they have another attempt at breastfeeding and when the pup is passed out once again, Taehyung feels like it’s time for him to take a shower.

“I don’t think you are ready, love.” Jeongguk measures him up unconvinced. “You probably can’t even stand.”

“Doctor Song said there’s a chair in the cubicle and you will help me, no?”

“What about Nari?”

They look down at the sleeping pup and coo at the same time.

“You can put her in the crib and push it as close to the shower as possible so we can see her,” Taehyung proposes but contrary to his word, his arms tightened around the baby.

“And will you allow me to take her so I can put her into a crib?” Jeongguk jokes with a mirthful glint in his eyes. “That would require you to let go of her, you know.”

“You are so mean to me, I just gave birth,” the omega mumbles with a pout which earns him a joyful laugh, quiet to not disturb the pup’s sleep, and a sweet kiss to the temple.

“I see. So we switched from ‘don’t tease me I’m pregnant’ to 'don't tease me I gave birth' right away, huh?”

“Yup,” Teaehyung confirms with a juicy pop at the ‘p’. “I warned you. Now take this cutie or I will never let her go.”

Jeongguk looks at Nari with wide eyes, clearly nervous and only now realising that he actually needs to hold the baby to transport her from Taehyung’s arms into a crib. The omega would tease him but he’s too endeared and too in love to do so, so he patiently guides his boyfriend how to hold their daughter properly and praises him profusely when he’s handling it smoothly.

The shower is a short affair, both impatient to get back to their baby but Jeongguk is still diligent with washing Taehyung thoroughly. He already cleaned him before but the omega feels much better after being under running water and changing into a clean robe that Jeongguk brought together with the nesting supplies and water bottles when he left to meet their pack.

Speaking of which, Taehyung starts to feel very excited, because now that he’s all refreshed, they can go back to his room, where everyone is waiting. And where Yoongi is going to scent Nari.

Doctor Song checks on Taehyung and Nari one more time before giving a green light to transport them from the delivery room. It is empty when they arrive and Jeongguk has enough time to help Taehyung settle on the bed comfortably and hand him the baby, before the door opens after two soft knocks.

A mop of blonde hair peeks in and when Jeongguk stops adjusting the nest for a second to motion at him to come in, Jimin does so immediately, barely containing his excitement.

“Oh, Taehyungie, you are a star,” he praises in a whisper and gets closer to the bed, a breath hitching in his throat when he finally sees a little bundle in Taehyung’s arms. “Dear Luna…”

“Jiminie, meet our Nari,” a fresh appa grins and moves a blanket a bit from the pup’s face. “As you can see, the princess is a bit sleepy so she will have to wait to meet her uncle properly.”

“She is gorgeous, babe,” Jimin sniffs and leans over the duo, to have a better look.

Suddenly there’s Hoseok, looking from behind the omega and he gasps when he also catches a glimpse of the pup. “My, my, my. I must say, you two are so handsome and I expected the little one to be just as pretty, but she is way more beautiful than the two of you, sorry guys.”

“She definitely is,” Jeongguk agrees with a hum and strokes the newborn’s cheek. “I’ve never thought there could be anyone more gorgeous than Tae, but sorry love, she beats you.”

“I’m not mad, I totally agree,” Taehyung giggles and cranes his neck giddily, to see behind his packmates. “And Yoongi hyung?”

“I’m here, I’m here,” the man gruffs and shoves the two aside, so he can finally get to the bed.

The alpha looks down and the tears immediately spring up to his eyes. “Luna, Taehyung-ah,” he chokes out, reaching out and softly caressing the omega’s head. “You did it, she’s here. And you did so well pup, she is beautiful.”

Taehyung preens at the praise from his head alpha, from his best friend, and turns his gaze to his daughter when he feels her moving. She scrunches her nose cutely and opens her mouth in a silent cry, so he shushes her quickly and whispers some sweet words before turning back to his hyung.

“Scent her, please?”

Yoongi breathes out and nods shakily, before he leans in. He looks up at Jeongguk expectantly, seeing the man unconsciously step closer in a protective manner, but when the younger alpha doesn’t stop him, he nuzzles the top of Nari’s head, uncovered beforehand by Taehyung.

The pup stirs a bit, fusses at the new strong scent, but just like when Jeongguk scented her, she must recognise the smell of petrichor because she stops her wiggling and starts searching with her eyes until she catches Yoongi’s gaze. She opens her mouth again, in a slight wonder, but after a few seconds she turns back and buries her face in Taehyung’s chest.

The omega smiles fondly and Jeongguk helps him put the hat back on their baby’s head.

“Your uncles are here, will you say hi?” She doesn’t seem interested in any greetings though, blindly looking for his nipple again. “Well, sorry about that. She’s not very sociable yet.” Taehyung chuckles and he’s quickly followed by the other four. 

“No problem, sweetheart,” Jimin sits on a chair and gets as close as possible, observing the pup with fascination.

“How are you feeling, honey?” Hoseok sits at his feet and starts gently massaging his calf through the sheets. 

Yoongi quickly follows his example and does the same on the other side. Jeongguk settles on the other chair at Taehyung’s head and the omega sighs with content, to have all of his pack together.

“Like I could burst with happiness. But also tired as hell,” he admits without shame. “I warn you in advance that I might pass out any second now.”

“Understandable,” the other omega smiles at him sweetly, and brushes some strands of hair from his face. “We will leave when you fall asleep, to give you time together and we’ll come back later with some food for you. My mate turned into a mother hen and prepared the whole hospital luncheon for an omega after birth.”

“Why am I not surprised,” Taehyung giggles sleepily and moves his fond gaze at his embarrassed friend. “Thank you, hyung.”

“Yeah, yeah, go to sleep, you,” the alpha grumbles and squeezes his calf reassuringly. “I’m proud of you, kid.”

“We all are,” Hoseok adds for clarity.

Taehyung smiles lazily and turns his half lidded eyes to his lover. “Stay?”

“Always,” Jeongguk reassures him and the kiss to his forehead is the last thing the omega registers before finally falling asleep.

Appa and daughter stay in the hospital for three days. Jeongguk is with them almost all the time, only going home to change and feed and take their dogs out for a walk. Fortunately, Bam and Yeontan don’t feel too abandoned as Hoseok decided to move into Jeongguk's old apartment and right now is slowly moving from the pack house, so he spends some quality time with two puppies whenever he can.

Even though the little family spends those first moments in hospital, they are no less magical because finally they are whole, the three of them. A nurse teaches the new parents everything about taking care of a newborn, praising them whenever they do something right. The couple have a little confidence thanks to the birth classes they took, but it quickly turned out that they were so much different from the real deal. From holding the delicate baby girl, their whole world, so fragile and precious.

Jeongguk is the more nervous one, afraid of his own strength and cautious to not harm his princess, while Taehyung’s nimble hands operate around Nari like a pro. The omega keeps teasing his lover that he should’ve been the one winning the competition during their baby shower. Jeongguk is too stressed to argue with him.

The biggest problem turns out to be breastfeeding.

It's nothing unexpected, being a male omega Taehyung was aware that it might be more of a hustle and the pup might have more troubles to properly feed but with help of a lactation consultant they find the best way to position Nari and she happily learns to eat, looking at Taehyung with huge, doe eyes filled with wonder. They introduce the pup also to the bottle, as this is how she will be fed mostly, and after getting a grip on sucking, she catches on quite fast.

As much as bunny loves lying on her appa’s naked chest, she absolutely adores skin-to-skin contact with her daddy. Taehyung’s a bit jealous, seeing pure bliss on his daughter’s face when shirtless Jeongguk cuddles her in his arms and rocks her to sleep, but on the other hand the sight melts his heart. It affects him so much more than it did when Jeongguk was holding kids of their friends, probably because nothing can compare to the look on the alpha’s face right now.

And it seems that Jeongguk loves carrying their baby just as much as she loves to be held by him.

The second morning of the hospital stay, Taehyung slowly wakes up and before his brain is fully awake and his omega urges him to look for the pup, he registers a quiet voice.

“I’m never going to let you go,” he hears his boyfriend’s whisper and smiles to himself. “Your appa might not like it but I'm going to hold you forever. He can kiss you and tickle your cute little feet but you’re going to live in my arms. He’s had you by his side for 9 months, now is my turn.”

“I have to feed her too, you know,” Taehyung finally speaks but Jeongguk doesn’t seem startled, as if he knew he’s not asleep.

“I will hold her for you, don’t worry.”

“The worst part is that she would probably prefer that.”

“I don’t understand why you’re surprised, like appa like daughter.”

Taehyung can’t deny this statement. He also loves being in Jeongguk’s arms so he understands his daughter better than anyone. His omega too melts at the sight of their mate with their pup, purring in content almost 24/7. According to Jeongguk his alpha is just as elated and proud of his mate, to give birth to a healthy, beautiful pup.

Right when the September starts, Jeongguk brings the baby car seat to the hospital room and helps Taehyung get dressed. Three days passed, a new month started and they can finally go home now. Everything is alright with both appa and the baby, so doctor Song happily signs the discharge papers and reminds them of the control visit on Monday, to see if everything is fine after change of environments.

The car ride is another experience. The alpha drives more carefully than ever before in his life and Taehyung can’t take his eyes off of bunny safely tucked in the car seat. Every little move of hers puts him into high alert, looking for any sign of discomfort or pain. Before they park in the underground garage, the writer is a nervous wreck and the car is filled with the alpha’s calming pheromones.

“Nari is more relaxed than me and it’s her first days of life,” Taehyung murmurs, when Jeongguk takes out the car seat and they’re walking to the elevator.

“She knows she has her dads all ready to protect her, she can nap without worries,” the alpha chuckles quietly, mindful to not wake her up.

“Are you sure that everything is ready at home?”

“I’m sure, love. We got everything prepared in advance and I did a quick check today, too.”

“What about Tannie and Bamie?”

“I’m gonna get in first and hold them in the living room, so when you come in after a minute, we can introduce them to each other.”

“Okay,” Taehyung breathes out when the elevator door opens with a ring. “Let’s do this.”

The first meeting goes as smoothly as they’d never wished for. Both Bam and Yeontan are very gentle, sniffing curiously at the pup’s feet and wagging their tails wildly in excitement but they don’t do any rapid movements, both staying calm and collected. After a minute Jeongguk risks slowly letting go of his hold and the dogs don’t change their positions, both lying down around the car seat with their noses up to smell the soft blanket.

He straightens up and stands next to the omega, who tries to hold back tears at the cute sight.

“They’ve been waiting for her just like us,” Jeongguk whispers, circling the writer's shoulders with his arm and kissing his temple. “Welcome home, love.”

There’s a big sunflower bouquet on a coffee table and a small bag next to it but right at this moment Taehyung is too overwhelmed to pay attention to it. He looks at his three pups on the floor and his heart grows with infinite love.

The couple stares at the sight for a few minutes until both of them start to feel a bit awkward.

“Okay, now what?” Jeongguk asks and Taehyung can’t help but burst into quiet giggles.

“Oh Luna, I have no idea. Should we take her out?”

“What if she wakes up?”

The omega hums in agreement. “She’s probably gonna wake up soon anyway to eat, let's leave her for now.”

“Do you want to go take a shower? I will watch her and prepare us something to eat, how about that?”

“Sounds perfect,” Taehyung agrees and smiles before kissing his boyfriend tenderly. “Thank you.”

“Everything for you.”

They do as they planned and on the way back to the living room, Taehyung fetches a previously prepared gift from his nightstand. He knew that Nari might come around this time and he precariously prepared in advance, to avoid panic and asking for Jimin’s help while he was recovering in the hospital.

He joins his lover in the kitchen, checking first on the baby, who is still soundly asleep, and wraps his arm around the alpha’s narrow waist.

“Happy birthday, my love,” he whispers and grins smelling the immediate spike of happy pheromones.

“It is a happy birthday indeed, I couldn't imagine myself a better one.” Jeongguk turns around in his embrace. “My two pups came home today, it’s the best gift I could ask for.”

“I guess Nari knew what she was doing being born on that specific day. And there’s another gift for you,” Taehyung hands him a package. “From our daughter and me.”

“Baby…” The alpha sighs. “You didn’t have to…”

“Of course I had to. It’s your birthday, my love.”

Jeongguk tears through the wrapping paper and opens the box inside, a big smile blooming on his face.

“You said you’re missing an elegant watch and I know you’ve been eyeing those wooden ones for some time,” Taehyung explains. “Turn it around.”

When he flips it, there’s an engraving on a caseback. Two wolves and a little bunny between them, with letters J & T & N below them. Jeongguk pouts and lifts his big, doe eyes at the omega.

“Pup… It’s beautiful,” he whispers and pulls him in for a hug. “Thank you.”

“There’s still space there for more bunnies to come,” the writer whispers back and the hug tightens a little bit.

“I love you.”

“I love you, more.”

“We are not having this discussion agai-” the alpha’s complaint is interrupted by a loud cry.

“Oh no, my baby,” Taehyung coos, wiggling out of the embrace and jogs to the car seat, where two dogs are already standing alert, whining at Taehyung to do something.

With Nari in his arms the omega crawls in the nest, for the first time since they came home, for the first time with his longed-for pup, and the rush of emotions hits him right in the chest. He stares at the weeping baby and starts talking softly, at the same time untying his top, so she can nurse.

“Everything’s fine, little one. We’re home.”

It goes like this for the rest of the day. Nari either sleeps or cries for food or change of diapers. As predicted, she sleeps much better in the crib made by her daddy than in the bought one in the nursery, which makes the alpha preen and strut around the house with head held high.

During the first feeding, Jeongguk hands Taehyung the bag that was waiting at the coffee table next to the sunflowers, and the omega takes out a new charm to his bracelet. It is a flowering tobacco, as Jeongguk explains, Nari’s birth flower, with her name and date of birth engraved on the reverse. The gift is so Jeongguk, Taehyung can’t help but get a bit emotional and immediately demands his lover to bring him his bracelet, so he can wear it with a new addition.

It’s not the end of surprises though. When Taehyung walks in the nursery for the first time, he’s greeted with a “Welcome home, Nari” banner, a few balloons placed around the room and a brand new rocking chair right next to the cot.

“I hope you like your new courting gift,” Jeongguk whispers, circling his arms from behind him and helping him hold their daughter.

“Jeonggukie,” Taehyung chokes out, shocked and overwhelmed with everything that’s happened in the last couple of days, crowned with another apparently handmade piece of furniture that his future mate made especially for him.

With that, the omega refuses to leave Nari in the nursery and drags Jeongguk to their main nest in the bedroom, so they can take a nap for the first time as three, snuggled together in their mixed scents and happy pheromones.

The rocking chair becomes Taehyung’s favourite place to feed Nari, a gentle movement soothing for both the appa and the baby, making their bonding time even more special.

Yeontan and Bam follow Nari wherever she’s taken by her parents, always curling in two balls at the feet of either bed or cot or the rocking chair, never leaving the pup’s side. The couple jokes that she’s the safest baby in the world, having two fierce protectors, ready to fight any potential danger at all times.

As for the new parents, they mostly just keep staring at the little pup, enchanted by her cute, beautiful face, gushing about how he’s already three days old and marvelling at the blessing granted to them by Mood Goddess. They also spam their friends and Jeongguk’s dads with photos of Nari, which is more than welcome, especially by the Jeons, who demand a new photo probably every fifteen minutes.

When the night comes, Taehyung takes his sweet time in the bathroom, enjoying his favourite shampoo and shower gel in the shower, his skin care routine that he missed for a couple of days, too exhausted and preoccupied with a new life he created. Nari was soundly asleep in their nest when freshly showered Jeongguk joined them in the bedroom and gently nudged him to go and get ready to bed.

After a good twenty minutes spent pampering himself, Taehyung finally emerges from the bathroom and stops in his tracks before entering the room. Those twenty minutes must’ve been enough for Nari to wake up but she is not crying or fussing around. She gapes with wide eyes at the man that’s holding her secure in his arms, the same fascinated glint in the alpha’s eyes staring right back at her.

The omega thinks about a flowering tobacco, his daughter’s birth flower and what it means. She couldn’t choose a more suitable day to be born. “Not lonely because you are here” . Taehyung couldn’t agree more. He has his two bunnies now and finally it seems that Taehyung’s lonely days are through. He sighs with content and closes his eyes for a second to savour this feeling before he opens them again.

"If you choose my guys I hope you and the pup will be the happiest in the world”.

As he leans against the doorframe and watches the scene in front of him, Taehyung remembers the note Jeongguk left in his donor file for the future parents of a pup he’ll help to bring to this world. It was just a message from a random alpha from Busan who only wanted to do something good and help total strangers make their dream of having a baby come true.

He looks at him now, at the alpha who used to be JJG-130709 for him and now is his alpha. His partner, his future mate, a father of his pup. He’s slowly walking in circles, rocking their baby daughter in his arms, singing to her softly. The look in both of their eyes could be described only as if they were looking at their whole world.

Taehyung is pretty sure his eyes show exactly the same right now.

Jeongguk finally notices him and the smile that blooms on his face, without fail, melts Taehyung’s insides, wakes up all the butterflies that started to live in Taehyung’s belly ever since he met this wonderful man, lights up the whole room and even their daughter seems to be mesmerised.

Jeongguk lifts her a bit and turns in a way that she faces the door.

“Look there, my love, it’s your appa,” he says in the same soft voice he was singing with just a minute ago and Taehyung finally pushes himself from the doorframe and gets in the room. The moment he’s close enough for Nari to catch the whiff of his scent she turns her eyes from her daddy and whines cutely.

“I am here, my bunny,” Taehyung coos and takes her into his arms, hugging her close to his chest, a bit possessively. They were away from each other a bit too long for his liking. “I missed you.”

“We missed you too,” Jeongguk whispers into his ear and wraps himself around the two of them. “Was telling her how we met, she seemed very interested.”

Taehyung snorts but soon enough his breath hitches, when the alpha noozes the crook of his neck, scenting him thoroughly and planting a featherlight kisses on the scent gland where his mating mark is going to be placed soon. He does that a lot. Taehyung sometimes wonders which one of them can’t wait to mate more. 

But maybe that’s the point, none of them wants it more, they are both equally impatient and giddy. Their daughter needs to grow up a bit so they will be able to separate from her for a few days. Which, to be honest, right now Taehyung can’t imagine ever being possible . He misses her when she sleeps a bit too long and she’s here with them for not even 84 hours. He’s never going to survive a day without her, not speaking about a few days. 

When Jeongguk deems Taehyung being properly scented, he proceeds to scent Nari and only when the whole room is permeated with the patchouli scent, he breathes out in satisfaction. 

They rock their baby until she falls asleep, safe and sound in her appa’s embrace, both of them in protective arms of her daddy. 

Yeah, Taehyung thinks, he and his pup are the happiest in the world indeed.