Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Lance awoke slowly, trying desperately to blink away the crust in his eyes, and shake the sleep out of his bones. With a huff, his eyes finally opened and Lance leaned to grab his phone off the nightstand before him, ‘5:59AM’ Lance sighed deeply, rubbing a hand over his face to get the last remnants of sleep off his features before he forced himself to sit up. Lance stretched with a yawn before throwing the blankets off of himself and stepping out of bed. He missed when he didn’t have to wake up so early. He also missed not waking up to an empty bed… but it had been years since the last time it was full.

The cuban walked into the kitchen first, he stared at the coffee machine before grabbing himself a glass, and making a cup. Afterwards, he remembered it was friday, which meant pancake breakfast. Despite the sigh that escaped his lips, Lance was smiling. He grabbed the pancake batter and got to cooking. Once two plates were done and ready to go, he made his way back into his room by 6:10 and took a shower, freshening himself up and fixing the hair he had let grow out. It wasn’t super long but there were more curls to frame his freckled face. 

Lance made his way back to the kitchen, where he saw the ball of sunshine walking into the room with his little hands rubbing at his eyes and a soft yawn coming from him. “Morning Ezren.” Lance spoke softly, walking towards the five year old boy, and kneeling in front of him. “You can’t rub your eyes so much or else they’ll hurt, move your hand.” Lance spoke softly, moving the much smaller hand away from his baby boy's face gently. He brought his own two hands up to his face, carefully wiping the crust out his sons eyes with a smile, “Morning Papa...is it pancake day?”  The boy finally spoke up, that made Lance smile even more as he chuckled, “It is in fact pancake day, mijo. Sit down at the table.” 

Ezren smiled at his father and nodded, he climbed his way into his seat at the table, and Lance stood from his spot on the floor, grabbing the still warm pancakes and sitting them in front of the other before he grabbed his own plate, plus the bottle of syrup, and went to sit at the table. Ezren quickly reached for the larger bottle and drowned his pancakes in the tasty topping. “Careful Mijo, adding too much makes your pancreas soggy.” he warned, though Ezren wasn’t listening, “I love Papa’s pancakes!! they’re really tasty.” Lance gave him a thanks for his praise, and the two finished breakfast with a bright and loud conversation. 

Ezren grabbed his bag and threw it around his shoulders, Lance picked him up which made the boy smile brightly and hold on to him tightly, it was already 7:50 and they needed to be at his school before 8:25, so Lance wasn’t in much of a rush, but he knew to be quick if he didn’t want to be extremely late. With Ezren in the car, he played his child friendly playlist and gave Ezren his daily affirmations, and a snack for later that he knew the young boy would eat before his lunch time. “Alright, Papa loves you, have a good day alright?” Ezren nodded, opening the backseat door and hopping out, “Love you, bye Papa!!” he squealed with one last wave before pushing the door closed and running into the school building. Lance watched with a smile. 

Ezren was small, rightfully so, he was only five. He had Lance’s tan skin, and a face covered in freckles. Although, his hair and his eyes? That was all… Keith. His hair was a really dark black, it grew quickly too, Lance remembers cutting it the night before because of how much it had grown. And his eyes were this purple-ish brown. Lance couldn’t explain it, but he knew those eyes anywhere and they were definitely Keith’s. Lance didn’t like thinking of him, or mentioning him at all. He tried to stay away from the topic with Ezren but he knew one day it would probably be brought up by him later in his life. But Lance had time, he had plenty of time. 

Lance looked at the clock on his radio as he pulled out of the schools driveway, he had about an hour and a half until he needed to be at work. Hunk’s place was closer to the cafe he worked at so he’d go there for sure. Lance clicked off the playlist he made for Ezren and started playing his own to accompany him on his drive. He hummed along as he turned and crossed pass car after car. Lance sighed as he turned on Hunk’s street. He pulled into the driveway, turning down the radio, and then turning off the car completely. 

He texted Hunk to open the doors before stepping out of the car, and walking towards said doors. Hunk greeted him with a tight hug shortly after, “Lance! Hey, come in.” Lance laughed and stepped inside, “Hello to you too Hunk.” Lance immediately took in the scent of cinnamon and chocolate, Hunk’s scent. He had learned to find comfort in it, it was the scent he smelled during his entire pregnancy, and the one he’d been surrounded by even after. “I take it Ez is already at school?” Hunk had asked him, already in the kitchen and making 

tea. Lance nodded, “Yeah.. I've been doing a lot better with our schedule since his daycare days.” Lance joked and made his own way into the kitchen. 

After a moment, Hunk handed him a glass of tea, “How have you been?” Lance took it eagerly, he took a small sip and huffed until it cooled down in his mouth, and then he was free to answer. “Me and Ez? we’re great. He’s really clingy.. I think he gets that from me.” He laughed lightly at the small joke, Hunk eyed him with concern, “I mean since… What happened.” At that, Lance didn’t answer, but he did let out a deep sigh. It took him a moment, “It’s been five years. I’m fine, promise. I have a cafe to get to, I'll see you later Hunk. And I'm taking this tea with me.” 

And with that, Lance was gone. He knew he should talk about, say how he feels about what happened. Talk about how it made him feel and the stupid shit he did afterwards. He knows he should tell someone about how angry he had been, but what was the point? He had gotten Ezren out of it, and Ezren was everything to him. 

Lance walked into ‘Altea Coffee.’ Lotor  and Allura were already at the counter and looking at him, Allura waved, Lotor only smiled. Lance returned both gestures and headed towards the back to grab his apron. He tied it up, walking back to the front. The coffee was a mixture of scents, there was coffee, cream, lavender from Allura and.. surprisingly honeycomb from Lotor. ”Hey guys,” he greeted the couple with his usual smile. Allura was a Beta, and Lotor was an alpha. That kind of scared a few customers as mostly Omegas came here, but after his first week most realized he was the sweetest. Plus he and Allura were mated, so they really had nothing to worry about. 

Today wasn’t a really busy day, a lot of their omega regulars had came and sat to finish work, a few teenagers would come in for a pastry, and sometimes an alpha would flirt with Lance and Allura, but the two didn’t focus on it. And the guys always left quickly if Lotor was their waiter. It was funny really, even if Lance wasn’t his mate he would still be protected like one. He missed having a mate… But Allura and Lotor were there for his pregnancy, and even before he found out about it. So either way, they were family no matter what.

During the day, Lance tried not to think too much about what Hunk had said. “Since.. What happened.” He didn’t want to think about it. He hated thinking about it. But now, it was all he could think about! 

They were 15 when they met. Lance was the top of his class always, no matter what. Then Keith joined and he had always been in second place. In everything. Every assignment. Every test. Every exam. Hell, even every class. The only reason it was such a big deal for Lance was because of him being an omega. If you were an omega, you weren’t supposed to be a top student. The system wasn’t meant for you to be better than an alpha, or even a beta. As an Omega you’re at the bottom. But Lance wasn’t at the bottom, and he was never at the bottom until Keith came around. The stupid hot headed, stubborn, arrogant, Alpha who was so perfect and graduated in the schools top five with Lance as second place. 

Then college came, and woo! As if the gods were against him, they picked the same college. And guess what? They were roommates. How much worse could it get? It did get worse, for Lance. Why? Because Keith didn’t even remember him! Because to Keith he was so insignificant that he wasn’t even worth being remembered. After some time, and some…fighting, Keith and him had come to several agreements and conditions for their living situation, and now Lance didn’t know he had fallen so hard until he was kissing Keith in the library and running away in embarrassment. Though that didn’t do jack shit considering the fact they lived in the same room. 

That required an even longer conversation about feelings. But it was a good one, Keith liked him back. Which, Lance thought was bullshit at first but after making it official, he never doubted it again. Until after college.. At that point their relationship had already gone on for more than 4 years. They had their own apartment - In Lance’s eyes they were happy. They would mate when both of them were ready, hopefully get married, and even have a pup like Lance wanted! But- but then Lance woke up and he wasn’t there. 

The house was far too quiet, Keith was never that quiet even if he was light on his feet. During the entire day, he noticed Keith’s stuff missing, he had tried calling and none of his calls had gone through, none of his messages were answered. He was left, alone. He was abandoned by the one person he thought would never leave him. 

Lance had gone to Hunk, Lotor, and Allura. They were his best friends in college, he had sobbed in their arms about what had happened, he screamed and had panic attack after panic attack. But they were there, all three of them were there and they had never left. Lance was sure if anyone were going to stay by his side, it’d be them. 

About four weeks had passed before he had gone to a doctor after some really bad stomach aches . He thought it was all the stress, and him being upset at the time. Boy was he wrong… Lance was pregnant. He was pregnant with Keith’s baby, and Keith had just abandoned him.

What the fuck was he going to do?

The car door slamming knocked him back into the present, “Hi Papa!!” Ezren squealed happily, Lance couldn’t help the smile his face twisted into, “How was your day mijo?” Lance started to drive, Ezren telling him every little detail about his day, from the moment he walked into the moment he walked out. And what kind of parent would he be if didn’t listen to every word? “And then Mrs. Preston sat the new girl next to me! but after i called them a girl they got upset, they said they were a boy, but Mrs Preston says that they’re a girl! What are they?!” Ezren had gotten louder, like Lance did when he was adding emphasis on a certain part of a story. Lance thought about what he had heard, 

“Baby, I think they are what they want to be. If a boy is that, then they’re a boy. I think you should respect it, and be better than Mrs. Preston by calling them a boy if that’s what they want to be called.” Ezren looked confused, Lance gave him a soft smile through the rear view mirror, “How would you feel if.. I called you A girl?” Ezren’s body perked upward, “Papa I'm not a girl, I'm a boy!” Lance couldn’t help but chuckle at the little guys reaction, “That’s how the new student feels. Even if their body is one thing, they’re mind and they’re knowledge is a completely different one. You’ll understand more when you’re older.” 

The car ride home continued with conversation between the two, Ezren soon tired himself out, and as soon as Lance parked in the driveway, the little guy was on the verge of passing out. Lance smiled to himself, this was his life now.. and to be honest? he wouldn’t trade it for anything. Even a mate. Lance unbuckled the boy's car seat, pulling out of it and into his arms. He grabbed his book bag, and threw it over his shoulder, closing the car door with his foot. Lance walked into the apartment, he moved into it after figuring out he was pregnant. Ezren didn’t need to grow up in a house that had so many of Lance's memories, especially since he wanted to forget them. 

Carefully, and quietly, Lance walked the sleeping Ezren to his bedroom. He lifted the blanket on his bed and sat down with the much smaller human. Afterwards, he hooked his backpack up on his door and walked back towards the bed. Lance kneeled in front of the bed and worked on taking his sons shoes off so he at least get a bit more comfortable. 

After tucking Ezren in, he kissed his forehead lightly, something he had a tradition now. Ezren mumbled a sweet and soft, “Night night papa..” turning on his side and letting his eyes close again. “Goodnight Ezren.” He whispered back, with a smile on his face Lance left the room, closing the door the softest way he could behind himself. 

If Lance had to redo anything in these past five years, it would definitely be raising his son. Ezren was his world. Lance would never give this up, for anyone. 

The next day, Lance had slept in until 7:15 AM. The usual time his little early bird woke bird. He was just on time as well because not even three seconds later, Ezren was in his room and climbing into the bed with him. Ezren sat himself on his fathers lap, a huge grin on his face. He had definitely been up for more than an hour. Lance smiled at him and sat himself up, securing the little one’s spot with his hands. 

“Morning song bird.” he muttered sleepily. Ezren giggled, small hands coming up to his fathers face as he kissed his nose with a ‘Mwah!’ “Good morning papa!! Can we go see t-..tia Allura?” Lance saw him stutter with the Spanish, only smiling at him reassuringly, “Of course love, we’ll go see your Tia Allura, and your Tio Hunk. How’s that sound?” 

Ezren squeaked excitedly, partly because he had gotten the spanish word correct, and because he was going to see his aunty and uncle! He climbed out of Lance's embrace suddenly, making the others' eyes widen, before he just rolled his eyes and chuckled. He grabbed his phone from the nightstand, quickly typing into the group chat. Afterwards, his phone rang with a call that he answered immediately, “Ezren wants to see you guys, should we go to the park?” Hunk was in the kitchen, his hair up in a bun, he looked at the camera and smiled, “Hell yeah! I can bring Apollo, he needs to go for a walk anyway.” Speaking of Apollo, the dog barked from next to Hunk and jumped up on him, “Down ‘Pollo. You’ll eat in a minute.” 

Lance rolled his eyes playfully, Allura was in bed, Lotor behind her and staring at the camera intently, “Yeah we can do that. I’ve been craving ice cream.” Allura laughed at that, pushing her mate's face away, “We’ll be there, what time?” Lance paused, thinking of what time worked the best. “Maybe.. the next 30 minutes? I still need to freshen up and get Ezren ready.” The four agreed and the called ended after about five minutes of talking. 

Lance finally pushed himself out of bed, and walked into the bathroom and stared at himself in the mirror. He looked a lot better than he did when he was pregnant with Ezren, and even after he was born. Lance was proud of himself.. sure there were times he wished he had an alpha to help out, but right now? He was okay with this. 

The thirty minutes were up, and he and Ezren made it to the park first. Lance told him to go and play, to occupy himself until everyone else got here. Lance set a bench that had the entire park in sight, so no matter where Ezren had gone, he’d be able to see it. Lance had heard a sound, ice cream truck. Ezren would probably want some later, so Lance stood up from the bench, and walked all the way over to the truck. He ordered one cookie and cream, and one chocolate vanilla swirl, paying first.

 “Thank you.” Lance smiled, taking the ice cream from the older women who smiled brightly at him, he was about to turn—

“Lance?”

Chapter Text

“Lance?” The omega paused. The smell of smoke and fire filling his nostrils. His breath caught in his throat. Slowly, he turned around, almost dropping the ice cream he had just bought to the floor. Luckily, he caught himself before he could. Though, he didn’t say anything. He just.. stared. The man in front of him was doing the same. 

Long black hair, pale white skin, a scar on the side of his face, and finally, his eyes. Lance looked into those eyes and everything had come rushing back. The quiet of the house, half of it being gone. Half of him was gone. The feeling of being abandoned came back. He stood still, frozen in place. Why did this affect him so badly? It had been five years. Five years without him. 

“Lance?” The alpha said again, stepping closer. Lance stepped back, “You’re not supposed to be here.” he said barely above a whisper. He looked around, Hunk was here, and staring at him. “Lance I just—“ Before the much taller male- which was weird because Lance was always taller, could finish his sentence, Lance cut him off. “I need to go.” He said it quickly, walking past the.. stranger? could he even call him that? He walked towards Hunk, who instantly came to him. “What happened? Are you okay?” 

Lance just nodded and looked at his friend with a smile, “Yeah i’m cool, just some.. random alpha. I told him off though.” Lance lied easily, he could see Allura and Lotor making their way towards them, making him smile. “Ezren!!” He called out towards the park, the little one turned his head in his fathers detection, he smiled brightly seeing both ice cream, and quickly made his way over to the small group, “Ice cream, ice cream!!” Lance laughed, handing him his swirl, and kissing his head, “Finish it up, and then you can play with your tia and tios, okay?” Ezren eagerly nodded, running off with his ice cream in hand. 

As soon as Ezren ran off Allura dragged him along to sit at a bench with her, “Your scent is sour. I may not be an omega, I know your scent, Lance. What’s wrong?” Her voice was quiet, only for him to hear. Lance sighed, he debated actually telling her… Allura had liked Keith. To be honest they all did- but when he left.. Those feelings turned to sour ones. Lance’s never changed. They wouldn’t ever change. He just ignored them and forced himself to move on. And maybe that wasn’t even him. Maybe he imagined the whole thing- maybe his brain had tricked him.. it had happened before. Lance shook himself from his thoughts, he wouldn’t tell her. 

“I’m fine, just a bit stressed I guess, but i promise it’s not as bad as it was before. I'll be fine!” Allura looked at him, her face twisted into a soft smile and she nodded, “If you say so. You know that i’m here, right? Both me and Lotor will be here.” Lance sighed, but the smile came back immediately. “Trust me, I know ‘Lura.” 

Lance‘s eyes scanned over the park, Hunk and Lotor were busy chasing Ezren through the park. Ezrens favorite game was chase. Mostly because he got to show everyone how fast he was. Though Lotor seemed to be hot on his tail. That made Lance smile, until he saw that face again. It wasn’t looking at him, or paying him any mind. But it caught his attention immediately. Panicked, Lance called out for Ezren. Lotor, Hunk, and the boy ran back in confusion “Papa?” Ezren said worriedly. Lance couldn’t breathe, he couldn’t even hear himself think- all he heard was his heart beating.

“We need to leave, c’mon.” He finally got out, breathlessly. “Wait Lance what’s-“ Lance didn’t hear the other as he grabbed Ezren and picked him up. Pushing black locks out of the way of his son's face they rushed back to the car. Lance had calmed himself down on the way, though he was still on edge. He was sure it was Keith— completely sure. Ezren was already in the car. Of course, everyone else followed him out of worry. 

“Lance?.. What’s going on, did you see something?” Lance looked up to see Hunk. He sighed deeply, “I saw Keith.” Allura’s eyes widened, but then her face twisted in anger, “Did he try something with you? if i did i swear—“ Lance shook his head, “No.. He tried talking to me and i just walked away.. I thought I had imagined the entire thing and then I saw him again while Ezren was playing.” Lotor sighed deeply, he wrapped an arm around his mate and kissed her forehead to calm her down. Her scent had gone sour, “Lance, you should take Ezren home, and rest. You need it.” At that, the other two nodded, though Hunk spoke, “He’s right. You don’t need any stress on your plate right now. You can always drop Ezren off if you need a break.” 

Lance smiled but shook his head, “No, it’s fine. Thanks though bud.” It took a couple of more minutes before the trio left him there, but when they did Lance could finally feel like he could breathe. He loved all three of him, don’t mistake that, but sometimes he wished they weren’t so protective. Lance was turning around towards the car, but then he heard that voice again. 

“Lance.” It wasn’t asking for him this time— it wasn’t curious on who he was, or trying to see if they had gotten the right person. No this time the voice was sure of itself, positive of who they were talking to. And again, Lance smelt the smoke and fire— he hated it. He had gone so long trying to block away anything that came even close to the scent. He even moved houses because of it! But here it was, clouding his mind all over again. But instead of love and admiration, he only felt dread and distress. Lance turned around, and there he had been. Keith Kogane. In the flesh, after five years. He shook his head, about to turn around again — it was like he couldn’t even do that without his world somehow changing. 

Keith grabbed his hand, “Lance, please. I just want to talk to you—“ Lance ripped his hand away, his face twisting in anger and discomfort. “Me and you have no reason to talk.” Keith disagreed, he completely disagreed. “Love—“ Lance cringed, stepping back from the alpha with a look of distaste. “Don’t call me that. I haven’t been your ‘love’ for five years.” Keith’s face dropped at those words.

Lance was right though. Keith knew that. He had convinced himself early on that he wouldn’t let what he did affect him, but of course it did. It was never not going to affect him. It would also affect both of them. Keith sighed, “You’re right, you haven’t been, but I promise I can explain just please—“ Lance didn’t let him finish, Keith didn’t even say anything when he left. He had no probably not talked five years ago, so why get a word in now. “No! I don’t want an explanation, Keith! You left. You abandoned me without a fucking word no less! Explain your shit to the wall cause I'm not listening.”

Lance had left him there, getting into his car and waiting for the other to back away before driving off. Lance was sure he didn’t see Ezren, he wouldn’t let him. But of course, the little pup was full of curiosity, “Who was that man papa was talking to?” Lance looked at him through the rear view mirror and sighed, “No one, mijo. He was just Papa's old friend from school.” Ezren pouted at the little information, hoping for something slightly exciting, but he didn’t push it, and found something else to talk about. “I saw the new kid at the park! It was really fun hanging out with him, but everyone else kept saying he looked like a girl, and that he should just be one..” Ezren looked sad when he finished the words, Lance gave a smile. 

“Forget what everyone else says. You and this kid know that they’re a boy. Soon enough, everyone else will respect that just as you do. Don’t be like everyone else, Ez. That kid is going to want someone like you around in the future.” Ezren smiled at that, it meant he was being a good friend, and he was making his Papa proud. “Thanks Papa!” Lance chuckled, “Of course mijo.”

Sooner after, the two were back home and Lance helped Ezren out of his car seat, the boy giggled and held onto his father tightly, Lance pampered his face in kissing, making Ezren squeal and laugh like he would when he was still one years old. Lance wanted to cry at the thought of his baby getting older. After a moment he stopped and took him inside, “Wanna watch a movie cariño?” He asked, sitting the boy down to take off his shoes. Ezren quickly replied with a yes and ran to his room to get changed. Lance smiled fondly and did the same, taking a shower and brushing his teeth. Afterwards, he went to the kitchen's pantry to get a bag of chips for Ezren and a cosmic brownie for himself. 

He made his way to the living room, Ezren was already there waiting for him, then he started to think. The house was so — empty with him and Ezren. Besides, Ezren didn’t have many cousins that could visit and siblings were way out of the question. Sitting down beside the boy, Lance reached for the TV remote and opened Disney+ Ezren climbed on to his leg and reached for his bag of chips with a happy thank you, making Lance roll his eyes and ruffle the boy's hair. He settled on The fox and the hound and let it play. 

The movie only fueled his idea, but he’d decided to stay quiet about it for now. Before the movie had ended, Ezren had fallen asleep, snoring against Lance’s chest. With a fond huff, Lance turned off the TV, adjusting their position so he could pick up Ezren with ease, he walked him to his room, laying him in bed and kissing his forehead. “Goodnight, cariño.” Lance whispered against the boy's forehead. He left the room as quiet as he did every other time he had. Lance turned off the sink light, going into his room and staring at it from the doorway.

“Get off me you animal!” Lance screamed between laughs, Keith was on top of him with that stupid smirk, the alpha didn’t retreat though. He kept pampering his omega with kiss after kiss, and Lance was the most ticklish person alive. “Keith, I'm so serious, get off!” Lance laughed again. “Can’t do that, not until you know how fucking beautiful you are.” Keith mutters, kissing the scar on the omega’s shoulder. Lance sighed and rolled his eyes, “Fine!”

Earlier that day, Lance had been struck with a self conscious feeling when looking at all the scars he had gotten from an accident his junior year of college. Keith had kept saying he was beautiful, the most perfect omega to walk the earth. Lance didn’t believe him, so Keith practically pounced on him and started pampering him with kisses to ‘Prove otherwise.’ Keith was truly the sweetest Alpha there was. The two finally calmed down, Lance couldn’t help but look at his alpha with pure admiration. He wanted his first mark to be with him, his first pup. He wanted Keith to be his first and only mate.

“I love you, Lance.” that voice rang through his ears, he didn’t even think he could smile as much as he was. He propped himself up, kissing the other’s cheek with the fondest smile he’s ever given someone, “I love you more, Keith.”

Lance snapped himself out of it, climbing into his bed. Who did he think he was? It had been five years. five years of taking care of a pup, five years of dealing with heat, after heat, and spending each one alone, begging for his alpha to help him. Five years of crying himself to sleep each night with the  scent of firewood and smoke getting even more distant then he’d think. Not to mention all the stuff he missed out on with Ezren. The first cry, the first time he opened his eyes, the first time he made a happy chirp. Lance was there for everything. The first steps, the first fever that scared him half to death, the first time Ezren had scraped his knee and cried for fifteen minutes. It was Lance who was there. It was Lance who was here. Not Keith. 

Now he was back, and for what? To talk? To talk about what?! How he left out of the blue— didn’t leave a text, or call, or leave some sort of voicemail. Hell he didn’t even leave a note, and now he just thought he could come back and swoon his way back into Lance’s life and possibly Ezren’s? Lance was pissed! But he was also exhausted, and seeing his face again for the first time—… it just bought everything back. Lance didn’t know he started crying, but he climbed into his bed and covered himself in the blankets hoping to bring some sort of comfort.

Keith was pacing around the living room, Pidge and Matt staring at him from the couch, “What the hell is his problem?” Pidge asked her older brother, the omega shrugged, “No idea. He came home reeking of stress, and alcohol.” Pidge rolled her eyes, the smell finally hitting her and making her gag, “Are you serious?”

Keith didn’t speak, he just continued pacing. “I’m a fucking idiot, i’m such a fucking idiot.” He muttered to himself, Pidge crossed her arms and leaned her head against her brother's shoulder, the omega just smiled and did the same. “We could’ve told you that years ago. But what is this about?” Keith paused, looked at the duo and sighed, “It’s about Lance.” Keith hadn’t really told anyway what really happened between him and Lance. Really all he told them was that they had broken up and that was it. 

“The omega boy? I thought you guys broke up—“ Keith quickly interrupted Matt, “It’s complicated. It’s been five years since I've seen him I want- I want to have at least one conversation.” Pidge eyed him suspiciously, “I take it he doesn’t want to talk to you?” Keith only crossed his arms and looked at the ground. “Wow, must’ve been a bad break up.” Keith rolled his eyes, but deep down he knew that was true. It hadn’t even been a break up, just him leaving. “It doesn’t matter, he’ll come around, he’s just angry I need to give him time, and space-“

The duo shrugged, the smaller omega spoke, “Is he mated?” Keith’s eyes shot to pidge. Was he? Of course not— he didn’t have a mark when Keith last saw him. And that struck something in Keith considering his claiming mark was long gone. “No. he doesn’t have a mark.” Matt stared at him, “Not having a mark doesn’t mean he isn’t seeing someone. Maybe they’re waiting.” 

Why were they pushing so hard on him having a mate? Lance is the clingiest person he knows Keith would notice if he was scented or around—…someone new. Keith remembers their interaction, he remembers the smell of vanilla, and cookie dough. Then there was something else, why did Lance smell like amber? He had never smelt like amber before. Dread washed over his face as he realized someone else could be scenting Lance, his omega. But Lance wasn’t his omega anymore, was he? Anger boiled up in Keith’s chest, “He doesn’t have a mate, so let’s stop talking about it.” he grumbled damn near under his breath and started walking away, “I’m going to bed, tell Shiro I said goodnight.”

The next morning Keith had damn near slammed into Pidge’s room, “Help me find where he works.” He ordered, Pidge, half awake, stared at him. “Are you fucking crazy??” Keith only groaned and grabbed her legs, Pidge screeched, “Shut up! You’ll wake Shiro and Matt. And you’re helping me find him.” 

“Keith, listen to yourself! You sound like a fucking maniac! Didn’t you and Lance end on good terms? Get over it, he probably has a mate anyway!” That anger had come back, “He doesn’t have a mate!” He argued back, dragging Pidge to her computer despite her protests. “Find his job.” Pidge groaned, wiping the sleep from her eyes and mumbling angrily under her breath as she opened her laptop. “One of these days he's going to call the police on you for harassment.” Keith rolled his eyes and watched as she worked. Keith knew this was extreme, and he knew it could blow up, but hey you can’t blame a boy for trying! He needed to see Lance, he needed to talk to him. To explain himself.

Pidge stopped, rubbing her eyes again with a loud groan. Keith was knocked out of his thoughts and looked at the screen, “What?” Pidge gave him a side eye before she sighed, “I found it.” Keith smirked, and hugged the omega tightly. “Send me the details, I'll stop by later. Thanks Pidge! Oh- and get some rest, sorry for waking you.” He apologized, earning a very irritated eye roll from the girl as she stood up and went back to the comfort of her own bed. Keith couldn’t help but smile to himself, he knew this was weird, and maybe even wrong, but he needed to talk to Lance.

He had so much to explain so much that he needed tell him. He just hoped Lance would allow him that chance.

Chapter Text

It had been a week and a half since Lance had seen Keith, which was a good thing. Why? Because it meant he wouldn’t know about Ezren, and it meant Keith could no longer hurt him. It was Sunday, which meant a much longer shift at the Cafe. Lance was alone today too since Allura and Lotor didn’t work on Sundays. He had dropped Ezren off at Marco’s earlier so he could play with the cousins he did have, despite them being a bit older than him. He sighed, wiping the counters down, there was a ring at the door and Lance turned, seeing an alpha regular walk in. Lance gave his signature smile, “Welcome to Altea!” He started, dropping the washcloth and walking towards the counter. “How can I help you?” he asked like he was supposed to. 

The alpha was a flirt, and because Lotor wasn’t here that left him with… stupid pickup lines and some desperate alpha trying to get a quick fuck in. Lance played it cool, and politely let him know he wasn’t interested and was surprised when the other actually backed off, none the less it made him smile, “No problem, hope you come back soon!” he waved goodbye and sighed when the door closed. 

Sundays were always busy, but Lance didn’t love this job for no reason, so when his coworker Lisa had told him he could take a break, he happily took it and thanked her. What he didn’t expect was for her to call him back within the next fifteen minutes, Lance walked in from the back and into the kitchen, “What’s up?” He asked her, Lisa just shrugged, “There’s an alpha here to see you.” Lance's face scrunched in confusion, he didn’t know that many alpha’s so who the hell was here to see him? “Thanks Lisa.” He smiled at her, and she returned the favor sweetly, Lance walked back to the front. 

“How can I—“ He paused when he saw Keith. What the fuck was he doing here? Maybe he had just stopped by? No— Lisa said he asked for him. How the fuck did he find him? Why — How did he know where he worked, “What the fuck.” He whispers to himself, walking closer to the counter cautiously, staring at the other suspiciously. “Keith, what the hell are you doing here?” Keith’s face lit up when he saw Lance, practically jumping over the counter. “Lance!” He basically yelled, clearing his throat and sitting back, “Lance.”

Lance didn’t have time for this, he looked at the other before speaking, “I’m on a break. I’ll get Lisa to serve you.” Keith felt his face drop, “Please I just need a minute!” The alpha pleaded, Lance turned to leave, but his body turned back at the cry. He looked over his shoulder at the clock behind him, “5 minutes. What the hell are you here for?” Keith smiled at him. Something in Lance started to hurt. He hadn’t been able to compare them at first, it hurt to even imagine Keith’s face… but Ezren- Ezren had his smile.. and he’d never get to know that.

“Hurry up.” Lance said bitterly, Keith quickly straightened up after that and looked down at the counter. “Look- I know you’re probably mad at me-“ Lance rolled his eyes, “Mad is a fucking understatement, but continue.” Keith sighed, that was fair. “Look I didn't want to leave—“ Lance muttered something quietly, but Keith just kept talking, “I was… going through so much— My mom had tried to contact me, Shiro got worse.” Lance perked up, stared at Keith, and let his mouth open, “I’m sorry did you just say your mom tried to contact you?! You didn’t think to tell me that??” This time Keith rolled his eyes, “Are you going to let me finish before my time is up or am I going to be interrupted again?” 

Lance crossed his arms and groaned before shutting up. Keith took a deep breath. “Anyway. Shiro got worse, and I started talking to my mom and told her about him. She said she knew a doctor, so I-.. I left.” Lance knew that wasn’t the whole story, “Doesn't explain why all your shit was gone, why you didn’t call, why you didn’t come back.” His voice was filled with venom and a bitter undertone.

 “I- Lance it was my mom! I went my entire life without her— for her to contact me? She knew stuff about my dad that I didn't, she knew stuff about me that I didn't! I went to live with her while taking care of Shiro because, luckily, they both lived in California.” Keith rambled, Lance didn’t let his face drop, twitch, or anything. It didn’t move an inch, but his eyes did move. “Why didn’t you answer my calls? Leave a message, a fucking note. Keith, you woke up one day and decided to leave without a fucking word! Not even a goddamn break-up text, just nothing.” Keith went quiet after that. It took him a second too long, and Lance scoffed, “Whatever. This was so—“ 

“I was scared.” What? Lance’s face finally changed. His mouth went agape for him to speak, but he didn’t. Instead he just stood there, waiting. Keith rubbed a hand over his face, “I was scared of what would happen to us. After I left… Lance, I wanted to come back. I wanted to come so bad. But then I was already at the airport, and you called me and I-… I panicked. I panicked so fucking bad and just decided not to answer. Better to not hear what you have to say, then hear you say something that would hurt us both.”

Lance was still angry. He was so angry. Seeing Keith — hearing what he had to say, it brought every feeling he had gone through back. Five years of feelings bubbling up, some increasing, others decreasing. Lance let out a deep breath, he was at work, he shouldn’t say - or do anything he’d possibly regret. Besides he was meant to be a good example for Ezren— Ezren. Lance’s eyes landed back on Keith. Should he tell him? It was only fair, right? Ezren was his-… but there was still so much resentment. So many things he wanted to say. Lance had to think for a moment, this was about Ezren. But Lance— Lance just wasn’t ready. Not yet. 

He’d do it soon. hopefully. “Fine.” Keith looked up at him, “I-… Look, I don’t forgive you. That’s not something I can simply forgive and forget. But.. Thank you for the explanation. My break is over though, so you can order something, or leave.” Keith got that happy puppy dog look back on his face, he quickly stumbled out of a coffee order, Lance rolled his eyes and got to making it. Now that he was actually getting a good - and recent look at Keith, Ezren looked a lot like him. The smile, the eyes, the hair. Hell Ezren was even a messy eater just like him. That thought made him laugh. 

Keith had decided to stay and 'catch up,' with Lance. Though, Lance was barely talking to Keith, but the older was being really talkative for some reason. “Shiro met this omega, his name is Matt. He and his sister live with us, she’s insanely smart, sassy as hell too. I think the two of you would get along really well, she’s an omega as well.” 

Lance obviously knew who Shiro was despite never meeting him, well he met him once but it was brief and barely an interaction. Lance hummed so Keith knew he was listening somewhat, but then out of nowhere, Keith stared him down and said, “Why do you smell like Amber? I know we haven’t seen each other in.. a while, but I know your scent, and amber has never been a part of it.”

Lance paused, his eyes slowly went to Keith who was just staring at him, creepy. Amber was Ezren’s scent. And he couldn’t just say ‘So.. four weeks after you, y’know packed your bags and never looked back, I found out i was pregnant and i’ve been single parenting a kid for the past 5 years.’ That was nowhere near going to happen. Lance bit his lip, thinking of a quick excuse. “I’ve been using a new fragrance lately. Allura put me on it.” Lance could tell that Keith was suspicious of him, but the older shrugged and put his arms on top of the counter, “Got it. Smells nice on you.” Lance just smiled sheepishly. Five years away from him really helped his lying skills, 

Keith stayed by Lance’s side for another hour before he announced he had to go, Lance had only nodded and told him to have a good day. His shift was over 30 minutes later and he went to pick up Ezren from Marco’s. 

“Hey— Roni? Why are you here?” He asked the woman in front of him, Veronica put a hand on her hip and laughed, “I heard Ezren had come over. You know I love the little guy. Plus, I hadn't seen Nadia and Sylvio in a while so I stopped by.” Lance just rolled his eyes, she always wanted to be the ‘Cool Aunt.’ little did he know, Ezren thought Allura was the coolest aunt. Lance stepped inside the house, Veronica closing the door behind him. “Ezren!” He called into the house, there was moving coming from the kitchen before a little brown boy covered in white was rushing to his side screaming, 

“Papa!! You’re here!” Lance stared down at his son, then his head shot up when he saw Marco and his wife in front of them covered in the same thing as Ezren, “Qué demonios pasó?” He yelled at his older brother, who stared at him sheepishly, “The kids wanted to learn how bread was made! but when Ezren heard you he got excited and knocked over the flour.. so.. here we are.” Lance looked down at the boy holding him extra tight, he sighed and hugged him back just as tight. “Well then thanks for trying to teach him something. I haven’t really had the time.” His siblings must’ve noticed the change in scent or the look on his face. “Hey, it’s not your fault. If that dip— if Keith hadn't left, Ezren would be way more spoiled than he already is.”

The comment made Lance laugh, he knew it was probably true. “Speaking of Keith—…” Lance quickly covered Ezren’s eyes but he didn’t seem to mind, or really notice, “He’s… He’s back.”His older siblings looked at each other and then back at Lance. Lance smiled nervously, and together, both of them yelled, “Keith is what?!”  Lance signaled to Ezren to go play with his cousins, the little one hugged him even tighter before letting go of him and running upstairs. Marco and Veronica dragged him into the kitchen, where Marco’s wife had retreated to clean up. She was just about done too, “Thank you. Isa.” Marco mutters to her, planting the softest kiss in her hair, “Could you give us a moment?” The woman nodded, muttered a verbal response in Spanish and walked away.

Almost immediately his siblings eyes were on him, but Veronica spoke first. “What do you mean Keith is back? back where?” Lance rolled his eyes at the stupidity of the question, “Here, obviously where else would he be if I said he was back?” That made Marco laugh, though his beta older sister just groaned. “Does he know about Ezren?” She cut off the laughter, Lance immediately answered, “Of course not, and he’s never going to know.” Marco stared at him more intensely now, “What? What if he stays in town this time—“

“He won’t, so what’s the point in telling him?” Veronica had gone quiet, watching the interaction between her two younger brothers. Marco stepped up, “Lance, that's his son.” The omega crossed his arms, “Ezren is my son. I’m the one who was there, not Keith.” The other huffed, “I just think he should know — I’d be devastated if I hadn't known about Nadia and Sylvio.” 

“You didn’t leave your mate one day and never contact her again. Keith walked out, that’s his problem, but he doesn’t get to come back and play the perfect, fun, loveable dad to a son who’s entire life he missed.” Veronica looked between them, “Hey, we don’t know if Keith is staying or going. And he didn’t know about Ezren — maybe he would be a good father. I’m not saying tell him immediately,” Veronica takes a deep breath, preparing herself for what to say next. 

“What I'm saying is, Marco is kind of right. If you have the chance to talk to him more, then do so. See what he’s here for, if he’ll stay. I think whatever the answer is, it’ll tell you what to do about Ezren,  ask Ezren about it.” 

“Ezren is five, he doesn’t know what he wants, or what this means. Keith is never finding out about him. Got it?” The sour smell that flooded the kitchen left no room for argument. The duo looked at each other, then back at their little brother and nodded quietly. Lance sighed deeply, his scent returning to the beachy vanilla scent it usually was. “I’m sorry I just-… I don’t know. Thanks, for taking care of Ezren for me.” Marco nodded with a smile, Veronica crossed her arms over her chest with a chuckle, “Scare the highlights out of us and then smile in our faces? Wow.” 

The trio talked for another thirty minutes about whatever they could, afterwards, Lance called up for Ezren who eagerly ran downstairs. “Yes, Papa?” Lance smiled and picked him up, resting him on his hip like he had done thousands of times. Ezren’s arms wrapped around his father as he giggled. Lance kissed his head and finally answered  his question, “Ready to go?” The boy nodded rapidly, going home meant movies, snacks, and cuddles with Papa! “Yes please!” he squealed, earning a laugh from his papa as they moved towards the door, “Bye guys!” There were various voices from all over the house saying their goodbyes. Lance opened the door and walked out, placing Ezren down carefully. The unpresented pup rushes to the car, standing at the door and doing his happy hops, something he’d been doing since he could walk.

Lance smiled fondly at the kit and walked towards him, he opened the door for him, carefully grabbed him by the shoulders, and lifted him up into his car seat, Ezren started to happily ramble on about his day, something they shared if Lance were to be honest. Lance hummed, muttering interested comments about his son's time with his cousins. Once he was done he gave the boy's hairline a sweet kiss and closed the door. Climbing into the front, Lance crunk up the car and turned on the radio.

Ezren ran into the house as soon as the doors were opened, Lance laughed loudly at the display, the kit rushed into the kitchen pantry and grabbed a hand full of snacks before waddling to the living room and dropping them on the couch, Lance stepped into the room and crossed his arms when he saw how many snacks were grabbed, “Put some of those back, I do not need an energetic little fox running around the house all night.” Ezren poured, eyes going big and glossy. Lance internally rolled his eyes, that wasn't working on him anymore. The two stared at each other, Ezren using his adorable little puppy dogs eyes and Lance returning it with a hard stare. After a thirty second match, Ezren gave in with a cry of frustration. He grabbed a few of the bags and started his waddle back into the kitchen. 

“Mijo you haven’t even had dinner. Besides, I might let you have some afterwards if you’re good during the movie.” That made Ezren a lot happier, “Okay Papa!” He squeaked running into the living room once more and climbing his way up onto the couch. “Can we watch Toothless again?” Lance stared off for a moment, trying to remember what that meant. Oh! How to drain your dragon. “One or two carino?” Ezren made the same face Lance just did, causing his eyebrows to raise. Before he could say something the little one spoke, “Two!” Lance just nodded and sat down, reaching for the remote off the table. 

Lance could spend every Sunday that he had curled up on the couch watching old movies with Ezren. The kit laid his head on the older lap, Lance’s hands going into his hair on instinct. Ezren let out loud and happy purrs, leaning into the touch and making Lance smile. His thoughts drifted off to what Veronica said, ‘ See what he’s here for. If he’ll stay.” Keith didn’t stay the first time, why would he stay now? Lance looked down at Ezren who was focused entirely on the movie. His hair, his eyes, his smile. All Lance could think of was Keith. How much Keith would have loved him. How beautiful their little family would’ve been. The more Lance thinks about it, the more his mind drifts away from movie night. 

Keith was sitting at the couch, Phone in hand while Lance had his head in his lap and was staring at the TV. Out of nowhere, “Do you want kids?” Keith looked away from his phone and down at his mate, “What?” the omegas face flushed in embarrassment. “Are-… Are kids something you would want? In the future.” Keith had gone quiet with thought. They were only in their senior year of high school so they did have a few years to think about it. Lance had grown embarrassed the longer he was quiet. All of a sudden, Keith smiled. “If i’m having them with you I don’t mind the idea.” Lance jumped up, catching Keith off guard, “Really?”

“Yeah?” Lance was a bit surprised? He was not expecting that answer. But Keith continued anyway, “Lance, you’re it for me. You’re my omega, and that’s never going to change. Plus I think having a kid with you of all people would be pretty entertaining. Especially if come out with your energy.” Keith could see Lance start to smile, he was scenting the hair happily which made Keith smile just as much. The movie had been discarded, Lance was now sitting up and in front of Keith while Keith was laying against the arm of the couch. 

“What would you name them? I’m thinking of something with Spanish roots, you know?” Lance thought out loud, Keith thought about it for a second.. “Uh.. My dad told me that my-… my mom wanted to name me Ezren when I was born? I don’t know why they changed it, but I like Ezren as a name for a boy.” Lance had thought about that. “I can’t imagine you as anything other than Keith.” He laughed, leaning forward to meet him in a kiss. 

“Night.. Papa.” There was a big yawn, and then soft and quiet purrs as the little kit drifted off. Lance looked towards the TV, the movie was over. Lance sighed deeply, grabbing the remote to turn it off before his attention went back to Ezren. He remembered how the boy had trouble sleeping by himself when he was two and three. He always needed to be somewhere close to Lance or else he wouldn’t sleep, so Lance made movie nights a thing. It would tire him out, and he’d be close enough for snuggles. Though after three, Lance started taking Ezren to his own room. It didn’t go well at first, but they had gotten used to it and now Ezren could sleep on his own and wake up in the morning without a problem. 

Lance smiled, slowly getting up and gently laying down the kits head. He stretched and reached for the boy, picking him up and holding him against his chest. Lance took him to his bedroom and laid him down. He had done this so many times it was second nature to him. Messing up the smallest little thing— the forehead kiss, tucking him in, closing the door, forgetting to say goodnight? Prepare yourself for a very cranky, or very angsty Ezren. And neither were fun. Lance kissed his head, “Night cariño. I’ll see you in the morning.” and with that, Lance departed from the room and started his own night routine. 

Keith was walking around in the park, since it was past 3, most parents had taken their kids to the nearby playground. Keith was about to sit at an empty bench a few feet away before there was an oof and a small force against his side. Keith looked down, seeing a little boy on the floor and rubbing his head. With the sudden urge to protect him, Keith helps him up, “Hey.. You alright?” He says softly, helping the boy back on his feet. The boy gave him a gapped tooth smile, Keith stared at him, with wide eyes. The boy looked just like him. The only difference was the gap in his teeth, the freckles, and the deep shade of brown of his skin. What- maybe it was a coincidence?.. Yeah, that had to be it.

 “Mister?” The little boy was staring up at him confused. Ezren pushed down the urge to hug the other. The scent of fire and smoke filled his nose.. it smelt familiar, but so strange at the same time. The man seemed to be snapped out of his daze as he looked back down at him with a slight smile. “Sorry.. what’s- what’s your name? Where are your parents?” Ezren bounced up, “My name is Ezren!! and my papa is—“ The kit turned around, but he didn’t see the park anymore, or his papa. “Uh.. He’s-… I don’t know..I-..I was running away and- and now i don’t see papa.” Keith watched as the boy started to panic, that urge to protect him came back and it was so - so strong. Keith keeled in front of him, “Hey, hey, it’s okay… How about I help you find him? We’ll find him, I promise.” 

Ezren nodded, tears forming in those beautiful little eyes. Keith smiled at him, he reminded him of Lance.. Lance. The more Keith started to think, creating a timeline, putting together little details his mind started to drift at a sudden memory, something he thought he had forgotten about.

They were sitting in the comfort of each other, Keith on his phone, and Lance watching the TV. He had scrolled on a video when out of nowhere the voice of his partner cut through the silence, “Do you want kids?” Taken aback, Keith glanced at him, “What?” He had disregarded his phone, his full focus now on his omega as the other also shifted, his face going red in embarrassment. His voice was much quieter the next time he spoke, “Are.. Are kids something you’d want?” Keith thought for a moment, his eyes moving from his partner and to whatever it was he was staring at. They fell back on Lance, 

“If i’m having them with you, I wouldn’t mind.” Lance had jumped up, Keith raised a surprised eyebrow, “Really?” Keith surpassed a chuckle as he looked at the others face, he waited for Lance to speak, and when he didn’t Keith took it as a sign to explain. “Lance, you’re it for me. You’re my omega, and that’s never going to change. Plus, I think having a kid with you of all people would be pretty entertaining. Especially if they come out with your energy.” Lance smiled at his words, the air in the room was clouded with Lance's happy scent, which made Keith smile just as much. The movie had been long discarded. Lance was staring at him in his spot in front of him. 

“What would you name them? I was thinking of something with Spanish roots, you know?” Keith took a second, he thought back to his mom and dad and something his dad had told him. “Uh.. My dad told me that my-… my mom wanted to name me Ezren when i was born? I don’t know why they changed it, but I like Ezren as a name for a boy.” There was a look on Lance’s face before he laughed, “I seriously can’t imagine you as anything other than Keith.” A beat hadn’t passed before Lance was in his space, and their lips connected. 

Taking a look at the kid again Keith came to a conclusion… This was his kid….

And he left.

Chapter Text

Lance had turned away for a second. A single second, and Ezren was gone. Almost immediately, panic began to rise in Lance as his eyes rapidly began scanning the entire park. He couldn't smell him, the smells of thirty other kids keeping his focus off the light amber scent of his son. Lance cursed under his breath and started rushing around the area, he called out for Ezren, not caring about the states from other parents, of the screaming of playful kids. He cared about finding his son.

“Ezren! Ezren, where are you?!” Lance could no longer breathe. What if someone took him? What if he was hurt? What if Lance couldn’t find him? His thoughts spiraled. Ezren was all that he had, Ezren was everything. Lance had started shaking, where was he?! Did he run off, but why?? Lance couldn’t hear anything, it was as if all of his senses were suddenly gone. He took a deep breath and—

“Papa!!” Lance snapped out of it when he heard that small little voice and the smell of amber flooded his nose.. though there was a hint of something else . His head snapped in the direction of his son. Keith. Ezren was holding Keith’s hand. Keith was holding Ezren’s hand. Keith knew about Ezren. Keith didn’t even seem surprised, as if he had figured it out already. Knowing him, he definitely did. Ezren let go of the olders hand and ran towards him, wrapping his arms around Lance, who in return picked him up and kissed his head. “Were you never gonna tell me?” Keith’s voice cut through the interaction. Lance stayed quiet, he knew there was a chance something like this could happen. Did he plan on it? Of course not. But he knew it could happen. “What was I supposed to do Keith?” Lance huffed breathlessly. He knew he couldn’t just not answer, but he also thought this wasn’t the damn time. “You wouldn’t answer any of my calls or my text. God knows you didn’t answer anyone else’s.” When Keith didn’t say anything, Lance took the chance to further explain – defend himself.

“You thought what? I was just going to open up to you about my life after you abandoned me? I wasn’t sure if you were going to leave again, hell I still don’t know if you’re gonna pack up in the dead of night and never come back! Why would I tell you about Ezren when there’s a chance you won’t even stay.” There was a quiet between the two of them, Ezren was confused about what was happening but his papa seemed sad. He hugged him tightly and rubbed his neck against his fathers face, scenting him quietly. Ezren watched as the guy with the same hair as him took a deep breath. “We need to talk about this—“

“We already talked. I’m done with talking.” Ezren got a weird feeling as he was in between the two. It felt like… like family. But his papa was so mad! He couldn’t help but look at the guy with the longer hair and wanted to hug him, but he couldn’t look at his father and not feel his sadness. Maybe they both just needed a hug! Ezren tapped his dads shoulder, and he was slowly put down. Again, Ezren gave them each a look. And ran to the one who looked like him, “Ezren wait!—“ He heard his papa, but he was already hugging the other.

Keith was taken by surprise. That feeling pinged his chest again. The boy was so small, but so big at the same time. Five years. Five years that he missed because of fear and cowardice. Keith reluctantly picked him up, and hugged him. “I see you named him Ezren.” Keith whispered, his eyes on Lance who just watched the embrace.

The name was the last bit of hope he had left that Keith would come back. He hoped that Keith would somehow just - sense it. He never did. And for a time, Lance regretted giving away the name.. but he removed what tied it to him. When he wasn’t connecting Keith to the name, all he could connect with it was the first laugh Ezren had let out. And when the boy learned his name, he was even more happy. “Yeah, I couldn't think of anything else.”

There was another long silence between the two, Ezren was on Keith’s hip looking at both of them with that sad puppy dog look Lance hated to see. All of a sudden, Ezren was staring Keith in the eyes, his little hands on each cheek. The smell of family clouded all of their noses just from being in the same room. Ezren looked confused for a bit before he shook it off, maybe Lance’s scent had just gotten a lot stronger. Ezren stared at him, head tilting in both directions. The tension was so thick even a laser couldn’t strike it. Keith smiled at the little guy fondly. He didn’t know what else to do if he was honest. Ezren returned the smile with a much brighter one and Keith swore he fell in love on the spot. This was his son, and he and Lance were his family.

After another few minutes Lance was fed up and took Ezren from the olders arms, “We need to go Ez.” The boy pouted, and Lance could feel Keith’s disappointed gaze on him. He pushed down the gut wrenching feeling in his stomach. Keith didn’t deserve to be disappointed in how Lance made his decisions. Keith made his five years ago, and that was walking out. Ezren was carefully taken from Keith’s arms. It was like time had stopped when their fingers touched and not a beat passed before that contact was gone. “Wait—“ Keith rushed with a breathless sigh, “What-… what’s his last name?”

Lance stared at the other and then down at Ezren who looked up at him and smiled that gapped tooth smile, “Kogane. His full name is Ezren Charles Kogane.” Lance would rather die of embarrassment than let Keith say something about his choice of name. He walked off as the other opened his mouth, holding Ezren tightly.

“Papa? Why are you in such a rush – we didn’t even get to play together! Hey – papa slow down!” Lance wanted to curse at the boy's sense of smell, he probably should have taken into account the pack smell. He mentally cursed himself and kept walking to the car. “We have to meet with Auntie Allura and Lotor today, remember?” Lance lied quickly, Ezren’s cheeks puffed out in a huff before he just nodded, “Whatever you say.”

And so they made their way to Allura’s, Ezren was fully prepared to play and stuff his face full of his aunties cooking, but when Papa mentioned a keef it sounded like, the man from the park? Their focus went to that. Ezren was meant to be having fun. He loved Aunt Allura and Uncle Lotor, but he couldn’t even see them because they were talking to papa! He was stuck in his self proclaimed room playing with the toys he was gifted with on his birthday. But his mind kept drifting to the man they met at the park. He had Ezren’s hair, and his eyes. And He smelled like papa… well— not exactly like papa, but like family.

After and even before presenting, everyone just has this— scent. It's unique to one pack, and it resembles family and being a part of said pack. Ezren could smell it every time he was with his papa, Auntie Allura, uncle Lotor, Uncle Hunk and even Auntie Veronica! He could just tell they were a part of his pack because of their scents. And then he met the mystery man at the park and he smelled just like that. He smelled like family. Ezren had watched, and heard people at school talk about having two parents, whether it was two moms, two dads, or even a mom and a dad! Ezren only had one dad.. maybe- maybe mystery man was his other one!!

Ezren smiled to himself, he’d have two parents like everyone else! He was going to rush to his papa and tell him about it until he remembered how icky his smell was at first. Until he realized that he’d never seen mystery man before, or ever. Papa had always been there, but he doesn’t remember ever seeing someone with black hair and purple eyes. How come he’d never seen him before today? Ezren’s smile was completely gone now, a frown taking its place. Did he not want Ezren? Did he do something to make him leave? Was something wrong with him?..

Ezren could feel his eyes start to swell with tears, which was silly. He had his papa, he didn’t need another one. He loved snuggles and movie nights and spending time with uncle Hunk and Apollo every saturday! He liked what they had, and he didn’t—…. He didn’t need another parent anyway! Even after that conclusion, the thought was still there. ’He left because of me’

Ezren doesn’t remember when his papa came to get him, but all of a sudden he was in the car, the music quiet and his papa humming along. Ezren bit the inside of his cheek. “Was that-… was the man at the park my dad? Or at least a part of our pack? He smelt like you.. And the rest of the pack.” The car had gone completely silent. Lance had stopped singing along, and was watching the younger from the rear view mirror. After a minute he let out a deep sigh, “He’s-… Yeah, Ez he’s your dad.” There was more silence, and again his thoughts drifted,

“Did…Where has he been? Did- Did I make him leave?” There was the quiet again. Ezren didn’t really like the quiet.. not when he or papa were always making - or just surrounded by noise. It felt like forever passed before he heard those soft words, “No, baby you didn’t.” There was a sigh, and then more talking, “Keith— He had something to do for work.” Lance didn’t know what else to saty. How do you explain a five year absence?

“His bosses were strict, so we lost contact before you were born. Trust me, he would have done everything in his power to be a father to you if he could.” Lance lied, a small smile on his face as he looked at his offspring. Ezren felt his face twist into another smile, “Does that mean I can see him again? Oh oh, maybe tomorrow after school?!” He exclaimed excitedly. Lance felt his entire body freeze. He wanted to say no, and never bring Keith up again, but looking at his face – at how excited he seemed… Lance could never deny him something with so much meaning.
“I… I’ll figure something out, okay carino?

The two wouldn’t see each other again until the afternoon a day later. Lance knew that Keith had his job, which meant after meeting a kid you just realized was yours you’d probably go talk to the other parent about it no matter if they were on the clock or not. Lance was making an espresso for some beta before he caught wind of firewood and smoke. He held down all anger or resentment, taking a deep breath and smiling as he handed the woman her drink. “Come back again!” He smiled, then he finally saw him.

Tall, black hair, purple eyes, more eye bags than Lance had seen him with. Serves him right honestly. Reminds Lance of all the nights of sleep he missed when raising a pup by himself. Keith walked up to the counter quietly. Lance wanted to roll his eyes, the tension was back. He took another deep breath, he’d been taking a lot of those recently. “I go on break in 3 minutes. I’ll have Isa take the rest of the shift and then we’ll talk.” Lance threw down the napkin in his hand, Keith nodded and rubbed his eyes tiredly and Lance just walked to the back. After a minute, Lance had come back with a woman behind him. It took a moment but they switched shifts and Lance pointed towards a table. 

Keith stared at him, Lance wanted to curl in on himself a bit. “Look—“ Lance started, but Keith was quicker. “I’m sorry.” Lance stared at him, “You’ve already said that.” Keith sat up straighter, “Yeah, but not for making you a single parent.” There was a silence, and Lance cleared his throat. “His name is Ezren, he’s five and…takes after both of us in a lot of ways. And he–...wants to meet. After school today.” Lance ripped off the band-aid. He didn’t have the time nor patience for more apologies and maybe even useless bickering. “Lance please–” 

“Do you want to meet your son or not? Although not being able to see you would probably crush him, I am happy to make up more excuses.” There was a long moment of silence. Keith looked like he was taking it all in. He had a child, a 5 year old child. Named Ezren. And Lance had to raise him all by himself, Keith didn't know what to do. When he came looking for Lance he just wanted to give him an explanation, apologize, see all that Lance had done for himself. He never expected that he would come back to a child. 

“Of course I do, but what about us–” Lance scoffed and rolled his eyes, “There is no us , Keith. This is about Ezren and what he needs. Not about what ever unfinished business we have. Hand me your phone.” Keith looked confused and Lance refrained from rolling his eyes again, “So I can give you my number? Promise I won’t spam call this time if I wake up and you’re gone.” It came out way more bitter than he would’ve liked, but Keith handed him the phone anyway and Lance added his number quickly. “I’ll text where we’ll meet. Be there. If you find some sort of way to disappoint my son? Keith I will actually kill you. Don’t fuck this up.” Lance was completely serious. He wouldn’t let Ezren be hurt by Keith and whatever bullshit he had going on just because he missed him. Keith had one chance, and he better not mess it up.

“Lance I’m sorry.” Keith sounded so.. Genuine. But Lance didnt pay him any mind, he hummed mindlessly and got up from his seat, “Go home. I have a shift to finish and I don’t need a shadow to follow me around in here too.

Keith had walked into the house as quiet as he could be. Which was really fucking quiet considering it was him. He heard laughing from the kitchen and slowly walked his way towards it, he stood at the door and watched closely. Shiro, Matt, and Pidge looked like they were making brownies, Pidge measuring everything while Matt mixed and Shiro.. Sort of helped. “Dude you put way to much!” Pidge yelled once she saw the batter, “And did you add an extra egg?!” Matt didn’t answer, only looking away. Shiro laughed as Pidge knocked their brother upside the head, “Now they’re gonna be gross!” Shiro laughed and pulled a pouting Matt against his chest, 

“Awh come on Pidge how can be mad at that face?” He asked his voice playful and sarcastic. Matt gasped in betrayal and pushed away from his mate. “You traitor! You’re on her side aren’t you, Rat!” The three laughed and Keith decided to step in. “What did I miss?” Pidge turns to him, her face twisting. “I don’t know but you reek. What happened?” Keith rolled his eyes, of course they’d be the first to realize the change in scent. “It’s.. complicated.” Shiro looked at him with that worried look Keith had never gotten use to. “I’m fine, Shiro. I promise.”

“You sure?” Matt said this time “You’ve been a little.. Down since we got back. Is it because of Shiro’s surgery?” Keith went quiet before shaking his head. He remembers the lie he told Lance about why he left. He remembers the lie he told his pack five years ago when he ditched. Keith was a coward, and a fucking liar. And he hated it. He stared at the three people who in return were staring right back at him. He should at least tell them he had a son. Information Keith had just found out hours prior after helping a lost pup find his dad – who of course just so happened to be the pup of Keith and the mate he abandoned and then lied to about said abandonment.

Keith didn’t know when he started to fidget with his hands but he did. He looked up, everyone was still looking at him with those worried ass expression. He was starting to get nervous and he hated being nervous. He hated being the center of attention, and he hated eyes on him. He took a deep breath and relaxed his muscles. This was his pack he was talking about. His family. Keith took a final breath before he eyes opened – when did he even close them? Without a chance to back down, Keith quickly muttered 

“I have a son. His name is Ezren, and Lance’s his dad… oh and another thing? I lied about how me and him ended five years ago.” The room was even more quiet now. Keith hated the quiet when it was because of him. Regular world silence? Great. Awkward situation awkward? The worst. What made it even more dreadful was when something you said triggered such an awkward silence your brain told you to either run and hide, or kill yourself on the spot. And Keith’s brain was telling him a little bit of both right now. 

“Well? Say something!” Keith was so fucked

Chapter Text

Ezren watched through the school’s window as the familiar car parked in the front. He smiled brightly, grabbing his backpack and running to his teacher, “Papa is here, papa is here!!” He exclaimed excitedly like he did any other day. The older man looked down at him and smiled, extending his hand for Ezren to take. “Then let’s go take you to your papa, right Ezren?” The boy nodded and grabbed the hand waiting for him. Bouncing with excitement he was escorted outside where the familiar figure now stood against the passenger door of the car.

Ezren ran towards him as soon as his hand was let go, “Papa!!” he yelled. He watched as Lance readied himself, jumping into his arms and being spun around with laughs, “How was school cariño?” He was asked, being positioned against his fathers hip. “It was fun, papa! When do I get to see daddy? It’s today, right?!” Too young to catch the surprised look on his fathers face, he waits for his response instead. “Yeah love, it’s today. He says he’ll meet us at the arcade, is that good?” Ezren gasped at the mention of the arcade, he loved the arcade cause there had been so many games to play and he was good at all of them! He nodded,

“Heck yeah!” Lance laughed, and beeped his nose. “Language, Mijo.” Ezren pouted, “Sorry Papa.” The two continued to talk as they settled into the car. He swung his feet as papa started texting someone, maybe it was daddy! Could he call him that? Should he? Well- he was his dad after all! Plus Ezren wasn’t really good with names.. dad should be fine!

Ezren was practically glowing with excitement as he looked out the window. He needed to see when they got to park, needed to see with his own eyes the place he was going to officially meet his other parent. He notices when the car stops, he watches when Lance gets out. Stares when he’s at his door and helping Ezren out of his car seat. Ezren is bouncing in excitement, beaming with it even. He doesn’t want to be held, he tells papa to put him down, and when he does Ezren goes right back to bouncing.

“Is he here? Can i see him?! Papa where is he!” Lance was a bit overwhelmed, but nonetheless he answered with a smile, “He’ll be here soon mijo. We came a little earlier than we were supposed to, why don’t you go play?” Ezren pouted, but with a reassuring kiss from Lance he was hugging him for a quick second and then running away the next. Lance looked at his phone, they did came a bit early, so he still had a little faith in Keith, but fuck if he wasn’t here in the next 10 minutes he’d kill him.

Lance stared at his phone, watching the time, counting the seconds until it changed. He sat down at a nearby bench that had Ezren in sight as well as the street. Lance was nervous. Five minutes had passed, then eight. Then he was there for fifteen minutes and nothing. Not a single text, call, nothing. He knew it was still early, knew that 15 minutes wasn’t that bad. He knew he was being impatient and paranoid. But all of that- all of that was the more rational part of himself. Because the irrational part was angry. Angry at being left again. Angry at being lied to. Keith said he would be here, and now he’s nowhere to be seen, again. Lance stood up, ready to take Ezren, go home, and never contact Keith again. “Ez!—“

“Lance!” He heard from behind him, turning his head to see a breathless Keith running towards him. He turned his body, crossing his arms over his chest. Keith stopped in front of him, catching his breath and standing up straighter once he was sure he could speak. “I’m so sorry Shiro and i got lost— you know it’s been a while.” Lance scoffed, “Yeah, pretty sure i got an idea on how long it’s been.”

Keith stopped instantly, looked up at the other and sighed, “Lance that’s not what I meant-“ Lance looked away, “Doesn’t matter. You’re here for Ezren, not me. And at least you even came, so.. whatever.” Keith looked like he was about to talk, but lance interrupted him by calling for Ezren. The little boy perked up, looked at the duo, and smiled so bright Lance swore he almost went blind. Ezren ran down the staircase that led to the slide, running towards the two men with happy screams.

Ezren stopped in front of Lance, bouncing as he stared right at Keith was smiling right back at him. Lance couldn’t help the smile forming on his face. He had dreamed of this. Of the three of them being a family - of being happy. But that dream had long expired. He shook himself out of it and looked between the two. “Ezren, this is Keith Kogane. He’s your father. Keith, this is Ezren Kogane. He’s your son.” Lance heard Ezren laugh and then all of a sudden he was hugging Keith's waist. He knew this would happen, he knew Ezren would get over excited.

But what could he do? That was just Ezren, and Lance loved him no matter what. “Why don’t you show your.. dad around the park? I’ll even give you money for ice cream.” Lance said sweetly to the little sunshine that was in fact his sun. Ezren nodded, “Please!! I want the cookies and cream, daddy can we get the cookies and cream?!”

The parent duo froze, ‘daddy’? Lance was a little taken aback, and maybe even jealous. While Keith on the other hand smiled ear to ear, “Of course Kiddo. I’ll even pay for you.” Lance wanted to scoff, paying for ice cream is the least he could do after being absent five fucking years.

Lance waved and smiled as the two walked away. He sighed when they were out of sight and rubbed his hands over his face. “What the fuck am i doing.”

Keith watched closely as Ezren ate his ice cream, smiling ear to ear in the same way Lance did whenever they got ice cream. Most would say Ezren looked exactly like Keith, but to him? Ezren was the splitting image of Lance. The way he laughed, the way he would bounce in excitement, how bubbly he was. And not to mention how talkative he was. Once he finished, Ezren started talking about his school, and movie nights with Lance. All the things Keith missed out on. All the things Keith could have been there for had he not been a coward.

Keith could have been apart of the memories. He could be making new and better ones. All he had to do was pick up a phone. Send out a letter. But he hadn’t. He hadn’t, and it cost him so much. So much of Ezren’s life. So much of Lance’s. For the rest of his time, he and Ezren played all sorts of games. He helped him climb, chased him around the park like a mad man. It was fun, a lot of fun.

After a while, they decided to make they’re way back to Lance. They were a few feet away thanks to all the moving, giving them an opportunity to talk. “Daddy?” He heard that small voice and looked below himself, “What’s up kiddo?” Ezren looked at the ground, almost sad. Keith stopped the walking, kneeling besides the kid slowly. “C’mon, what’s up? I won’t tell papa if you won’t.”

That seemed to make him ease up a bit. Ezren made eye contact with him, sighed, and started talking. “Why’d you leave? I heard papa say you left.. did you really?” Keith felt his heart shatter. He knew the question would come, but c'mon isn’t this early! Keith watched the expression of his son drop in sadness. He quickly picked it back up,

“Look.. Ezren, I was — confused. At the time i.. I didn't know about you. I.. i did leave your papa. It was a mistake, one I will never make again. I left because I felt like I had to. I see that I didn't, and i missed so much.” He paused for a moment, Ezren looked at him again, Keith gave a reassuring smile. “I love your Papa. If i could go back, I would never leave, I’d stay right here and be with the both of. But i can’t, so i’m here now. Is that enough?”

Ezren thought about it, took in the words. Thought hard about what he understood, it took him a moment until he nodded, and that smile was back on his face. Keith got a neck shattering hug, which he happily returned. “Let’s get back to Papa alright?” He heard a noise of agreement and picked up Ezren. The two walked back to the bench they had walked away from about an hour ago. Keith sat Ezren on the floor, and he immediately ran to the brown skin beauty in front of them who gladly took Ezren in his arms. Keith watched, that smile on Lance’s face, the look in his eyes. Keith never wanted to be away from that again.

He’d never leave that again. Not when it was right in front of him. Right between his fingers and could slip away with even the simplest mess up. One he almost made today. Lance looked at Keith, who was surprised that smile was still there. “I’m glad you made it. You scared the fuck out of me,” There was a yelled ‘language’ after that from a certain toddler, Lance laughing and continuing “But you made it, so thank you. It made him happy.”

Keith didn’t even think, the words just flew out of his mouth, “I’d do anything for you. for the both of you.” Lance just smiled, not entertaining him, but not stopping him either. “I’m sorry, for being late.” He quickly said. Lance shrugged his shoulders, “It’s fine. As long as Ezren had a good day, I won’t kill you.” Keith smiled at that, he knew Lance was most likely serious about that claim, but the joke still made his heart beat faster than it should.

Ezren yawned, and that was a sign that the night was over. Keith wanted to scream, wanted to grab lance by the face and kiss him - tell he that he wasn’t going anywhere, that this could be permanent. What he happened to feel today? He never wanted that to go away, This was his family, this was all he wanted, all he needed. He cursed at himself, taking a mental breath, He turned to Ezren with a smile, “Night Ez. Take care of Papa for me, alright?” Despite being clearly exhausted, Ezren still smiled and nodded his head eagerly. “I will, I will!!” He said proudly with a few weak bounces. The duo laughed, Lance reached for the boys face and moved hair out of his face.

“I gotta get him to bed… Thanks again, for this.” Keith shook his head, “No — Thank you, for letting me see him. Especially after what I did-“ Lance stopped him, “Like i said, this is about him, not whatever bullshit happened between us. Goodnight Keith.” Keith was forced to watch as his family walked away, as he was left behind. Ironic isn’t it? He left them behind five years ago and now he’s stuck behind them. Funny.

Keith couldn’t help the groan that escaped his lips, he rubbed his hands over his face in frustration. “What the fuck am I doing.” He muttered, before reaching for his phone out of his pocket, and calling Shiro.

Back to ‘Getting my family back 101 lessons with Shiro and Matt.” What the fuck was he going to do with himself let alone Ezren. Guess that’s something to figure out later huh?

Chapter Text

Well? Say something!” Keith yelled into the room, 3 pairs of eyes on him. Silent. They were so silent. A little too silent for his liking. Shiro looked at Matt, who returned it with a shrug. Pidge crossed her arms. “I guess this means family meeting?” Keith sighed at her words, it was no longer quiet, but this meant it was his time to do all the talking. He watched as the trio made their way to the living room, Keith silently following behind. 

 The three sat on the longer couch out of the two, leaving Keith on the other. He took in their expression, mostly confused, but in Shiro’s eyes… Keith swore there was a hint of disappointment – a feeling of betrayal. He knew he shouldn’t have lied to him, to any of them really, but what else was he meant to do? He couldn’t just say ‘Shiro! I left my mate of four years out of the blue, left no explanation or goodbye, and now I won’t answer his calls. Let’s get you into surgery yeah?’ worst idea ever by the way! He could feel their eyes still on him. He sat up, crossed his arms, and explained.

“When Shiro got sick-… Krolia had just contacted me the first time and I left… I left him without thinking. I didn’t know he was pregnant, I didn't know that I wouldn't come back— by the time Shiro was better it was too late for me to just…. come back into his life. I told you that we ended on good terms. That we broke up, I lied. I abandoned him. and abandoned my son and now-“

“Woah.” Shiro cut him off. He looked at Matt who just shrugged at him. “Keith, that was dumb, the dumbest shit I've ever heard you do. But… maybe it’s not too late to fix it.”

Keith looked up, his eyes meeting Shiro’s, “You’re.. not mad?” Shiro sighed in response. “I don’t know yet. But I do know, Ezren is young enough for your bond to grow strong. With Lance- it’ll be a lot harder. You’re gonna have to prove yourself, and I just hope you’re ready for that.”

Lance and Keith had planned another day for Keith to hang out with Ezren, it was ‘family’ bowling, and Lance let him bring Shiro and Pidge along as well. Ezren had always been surrounded by Lance's pack, so he thought it’d be okay to surround him with Keith’s for a couple hours.

When Lance arrived, Keith was surprisingly already there. Shiro and Pidge looked smug, Keith looking miserable. He sat down Ezren, who instantly ran towards the three while he bought they’re shoes and walked over slowly.

Ezren was in Keith’s arms, giggling and rambling. Keith listened intently while Shiro and Pidge smiled and laughed. “You’re early this time.” Lance spoke up and all eyes went to him. “Lance!” Pidge exclaimed and Lance was suddenly in a tight hug. 

“Hey Pidgeon, are you still the only genius or has there been an upgrade?” Pidge laughed and pulled away, “There’s been a tiny upgrade, but  I'm still much superior.” and Lance smiled, then his eyes went to Shiro whom he had never really met before. “You must be the infamous Shiro.” His tone was light, no bitterness or passive agressive undertones. Shiro put his hands up, “That’s me.” 

“Nice to finally meet you, even if I'm no longer.. you know.” Lance shrugged like what he meant didn’t mean anything, and Keith’s face fell. “Papa, uncle shiro and daddy were listening to me talk about my day!!” Lance's attention snapped to his son and that loving smile was plastered on his face.

“Really? That's  wonderful, mijo. Now come on so you can put on your shoes and then we can get started, yeah?”

With a kiss to his head, Keith put Ezren back on the ground and he ran to Lance. Ezren grabbed the shoes from him and walked over to a chair next to Pidge. Lance watched him for a moment to make sure he had it, before Shiro offered to help him and Ezren happily accepted. That’s when he took the time to look around before his eyes landed on Keith.

More specifically the sunflowers beside him. 

“What are those?” He aimed towards his ex, who looked at him before quickly grabbing them and pushing them towards Lance. Who just stared in confusion.

“They’re for you. Sunflowers, they’re your favorite, right?” Keith says nervously, like he’s scared to get the fact wrong. Lance allows himself to smile. 

They’re in public, it’s the least he could do. “Uh.. Thanks. You didn’t have to, it’s just bowling.” He tried to down play, grabbing the bouquet and staring at the golden flowers in front of him. Sunflowers were his favorite, Keith knew that. 

“Papa!! Come on, I wanna play, hurry up!!” Ezren bounced impatiently, Keith and Lance turned to him with gentle smiles. Lance sat the bouquet down carefully and he and Keith turned their attention to everyone else. 

“Who’s first?” Keith asked with his arms crossed over his chest. 

The day was fun, Shiro and Keith would help Ezren with his aim, Lance would cheer for him and boo everyone else, Pidge would ramble on about calculations that would get her a strike, and Keith paid for Ezren’s and Lance’s meal — which Lance tried to say he didn’t have to — but he did anyway. 

Pidge and Shiro had checked  out early, apparently they came in their car while Keith was on his bike. “Uh.. tonight was fun, for Ezren.” Lance said quietly as he walked through the parking lot, Ezren asleep in Keith’s arms. “And thanks again, for the flowers and the meal. You know you didn’t have to do that.”

“I wanted to.” Keith answered almost immediately. Lance didn’t know how to feel about him. 

Keith was — he was Keith. The Alpha who stole Lance’s spotlight in high school, the boy who, despite having zero relationship experience and being emotionally constipated made Lance’s heart race with constant romantic gestures. But even with all of that, he still left. He got Lance pregnant and left. 

And now here he is, carrying their sleeping son in his arms, after spending the day with them, buying Lance his favorite flowers and spending lord knows how much money just to see the two of them smile. 

“You’re so confusing.” He accidentally let slip, and Keith did that thing where he tilts his head in confusion.

“I just.. I don’t know what to feel about you, Keith.” He stops walking, and just holds the flowers in his hand, staring at them. 

“I thought… I thought we were happy. That everything was perfect, and then you left. You left, and now you’re back and-… and I want to be mad at you. I was mad at you, but..“

“Seeing how easily he accepted you?” He’s crying now, soft tears rolling down his face, even with teary eyes he looked towards Ezren, cuddled in the other's arms.

“Seeing how easy it is for us to be a family? Seeing what we could’ve been for years?“ 

Keith steps closer, and Lance doesn’t bother to move away at all, he just keeps going. “I love you. And a part of me will never stop. I’ve loved you for.. so long and I- that’s never going away, Keith. No matter how angry I get with you, I'll never be able to hate you.”

“I want us to be a family.” Keith spoke gently, A soft whimper coming from arms, and Lance suddenly remembered that he was holding Ezren.

“I know, it’ll take time for you to truly forgive me, and that’s fine. Baby, that’s fine. Just let me prove it to you, let me prove that I’m not going anywhere. Let me prove to you that this is the family I want, and the family I'm staying with. Please.”

And Lance broke, the angry and bitter half of him wanted to yell bullshit, tell Keith he was lying and that if something came up again he’d leave. He’d leave and never come back, but the even bigger half practically fell into Keith’s chest with sobs and hiccups. 

‘This is the family I'm staying with.’ 

And for some odd reason, Lance believed him. “You have to stay…you have to stay!” Lance sobbed into Keith’s chest, and Keith used his free hand to run his fingers through brown curls. “I will, baby, I'm never leaving you again.” 

and that’s really all he needed.