Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

When Buck agreed to move in with the guys he’d met in Peru he hadn’t realised it was an all alpha house or that they were making an active choice for it to be as such. As they’d assumed he was an alpha they didn’t see any point in mentioning it, besides Buck had fallen into a habit of wearing scent patches years ago as he couldn’t be bothered with all the ‘you don’t look like an omega’ comments he always got, nor was he secretive about wearing them, the see through patches visible as they were glossy, standing out against matt skin. 

But as soon as Buck realised what was going on he came clean, knowing better than to lie about his secondary gender or lead the alphas on, because that would only spell trouble for him. 

Thankfully the group had been kind enough to let him stay, even if he did get the occasional snide remark about him being their token omega and a packless one at that. But it was a small price to pay for a roof over his head. 

Buck didn’t really like talking about his past or about his family. He couldn’t handle it, couldn’t handle people knowing what his home life had been like, how his parents had treated him, he didn’t need people pitying him or looking down at him any more than they already did. So he kept quiet and deflected when the topic came up. 

But living with other people meant that they caught on to this avoidance very quickly. Even though he didn’t spend much time with them, him being at the Fire Academy whilst the alphas just spent all their time partying, living under the same roof meant that he couldn’t avoid the questions, his housemates curious about the unusually built omega who’d spent years on the road, alone. 

They made him feel like some curiosity or an oddity to be gawped at and studied, and he hated that. 

But that didn’t stop the questions and the probing, the attempts to catch him off guard so he’d reveal at least a little something. So he was hyper vigilant of every word he uttered around them, being extra careful to not give them a little crumb to latch onto and mine. 

“Come on Evan, hang with us tonight!” Connor said, slapping Buck on the back before gently pushing him towards the lounge where the other alphas were already drinking. 

“I-I’d really rather sleep. It’s been a long day.” Buck was getting towards the end of his time at the Academy so it was getting even more intense than it already had been, exhausting him. Especially since the Academy classes were made harder for omegas, the department needing to know they were up to the job. So they drilled omega firefighters harder than beta and alpha ones, whilst the omega paramedics didn’t have to deal with any of this, not requiring the same physical prowess as the firefighters. 

So Buck just wanted to go to his room and curl up in his nest, noise cancelling headphones on so he could block out the sounds of his housemates and their wild night in. 

But Connor wasn’t really giving him a choice, his hand far too close to Buck’s neck glands for comfort, Buck knew an alpha threat when he saw one, and right now Connor was threatening to put him into an Alpha Sleep by massaging his neck glands, and Buck really didn’t want that. So he followed Connor’s lead and went into the lounge with him, his alpha housemates all cheering, one of them shoving a beer into his hand before he’d even sat down.

“The illusive omega finally joins the big boys.” Marcus, the alpha who’d given him the beer, crowed. 

“We were worried you thought you were better than us for a minute there.” Jude joked, a malicious undertone to the words. 

Buck cringed, chuckling awkwardly, “No, no, the, uh, the Academy has just been pretty intense recently, working towards final exams.” 

Jordan snorted, “I still don’t understand omega firefighters, even someone like you who’s so big, you’re just not built for it. Paramedics I get, but firefighters I’ll never be able to wrap my head around.”

“Well, they make us take extra tests to make sure we can handle it.” Buck said, trying to defend himself. 

“Look, all I’m saying is that if I had a choice between an omega or an alpha rescuing me I’d take the alpha any day.” 

“What about a beta?” Marcus asked.

“I’d take a beta over an omega but an alpha will always win.” He then looked over at Buck, “But I’d rather an omega paramedic looked after me, don’t worry.” 

It was a rather back handed compliment, if it could even be called that, so Buck just gave him a tight lipped smile and took a swig of his beer. 

The beer didn’t taste familiar so he looked down at the label to find a brand he’d never tried before, which explained why it didn’t taste like he was used to. 

“How does it taste? We thought we’d try a new brand. An omega friendly brand.” Connor said, all of the alphas sharing a knowing look that Buck didn’t understand. 

“Y-yeah, it’s, uh, it’s good, different, but good.” In truth it was actually a bit shit but he wasn’t going to say that, he’d always been told to never disrespect an alpha, especially if they’re doing something nice for an omega. So he kept the truth to himself and took another swig. 

“Good, because you need to drink up, catch up with the rest of us.” Jordan chuckled.

“We’re already two drinks in.” Jude added, “At least try and keep up.” All of the alphas laughed at that.

By the time Buck was four drinks in he felt like shit, his head fuzzy, body too hot, and feeling disoriented. But the alphas were all fine. But alphas high metabolism meant that they could consume far more alcohol than betas and omegas and not feel a thing. 

But Buck was drunk as a skunk, slumped over so his head was on Jordan’s shoulder, Connor on his other side, whilst Jude and Marcus sat near his feet. 

He could feel Jordan’s wrist lightly ghosting over his neck gland, whilst Connor scratched Buck’s head, the omega purring loudly at that. Marcus had hold of one of Buck’s wrists, massaging the gland there and Jude rubbed his wrist on Buck’s ankle gland. 

Buck was floppy, his limbs becoming too heavy to use as he began to float, the sensation of waves rocking him coupled with the alphas ministrations soothing him. 

“So Evan,” Connor eventually said, “We’ve always wondered, how did you end up spending all of those years on the road as a feral omega?” In relation to omegas feral didn’t mean they were wild and untamed, it simply meant they weren’t in a pack. 

Buck let out a sleepy hum, “Ran away from home.” He murmured. 

All of the alphas shared a look, pleased that their plan had worked, “Oh yeah?” Jordan said, a smirk on his face, “And why did you run away?” 

“Parents hated me.” Buck let out a loopy, self-deprecating laugh, “A week after I left I got a call from them, telling me to pick up the updated ID they’d arranged as they’d given me my medical rights.” 

“You hold your own medical rights?” Jude gasped, that was practically unheard of, even for feral omegas.

“Didn’t want anything to do with me.” Buck turned his head so he could shove his face into Jordan’s neck, scenting himself. 

The act of scenting got a wicked grin out of Jordan, “That’s it omega, take whatever you need.” He cooed. Their plan was going even better than they thought it could, they hadn’t expected to reduce Buck to such a relaxed and primal state that he’d started scenting against one of them. But here he was, actively engaging, making their jobs a whole lot easier. “And you didn’t think to settle somewhere and find a new pack?” 

“Who’d want me? No one wants a freak for an omega.” Buck’s warm breath ghosted over Jordan’s neck gland before he curled up, his limbs gently slipping from the other alpha’s grasps, all of them happily letting him go as he plastered himself to Jordan’s side. His face was still in the alphas neck whilst he wrapped his arms around him. Jordan resumed gently ghosting a wrist over one of Buck’s neck glands as Connor kept scratching the omega's head. 

“Mmm, you make a good point.” Jordan hummed, placing a kiss on the omega’s forehead to help relax him even more, if that was even possible, “We all thought you were an alpha when we first met you, isn’t that ridiculous?” 

Buck hummed and nodded, “Yeah, ridiculous.” 

“So glad we’re on the same page Evan, it’s good that you’re on the same page as us alphas.” Jordan whispered, loud enough that they could all hear but still intimate in the silence of the room. 

When Buck woke the next morning he had a raging headache, he felt like he’d been hit by a train as his temples throbbed.

He rolled out of bed with a groan but as soon as he was upright the need to vomit came over him in a sudden wave which had him bolting for the bathroom, which was thankfully free. 

“Few too many last night?” A voice joked from the bathroom door. 

Buck lifted his head and looked over his shoulder to find Marcus standing there, leaning against the doorframe, arms crossed, a devilish smile on his face, “Even on beer with an omega friendly alcohol content you still couldn’t keep up. And here I was thinking you’d been a wild party boy in Peru.” 

“Don’t know why it’s hit me so bad.” Buck grumbled, “I don’t think I drank that much last night.” 

Marcus’ smile turned into a smirk, “I’d spend the day in bed if I were you Evan, need to recover so you’re okay for your classes tomorrow.” And with that Marcus left. 

Thankfully Buck was feeling fine by Monday, if a little tired, but not enough that it affected his performance. And as the week went on the tiredness eased, letting him just focus on his training and proving he was good enough to be a firefighter, regardless of the fact that he was an omega. 

Soon enough exams came around, which led to Buck being extremely stressed, but he did his best to keep a lid on it at home, not wanting to stress any of his housemates out. 

But by the end of the week Buck had graduated and gotten his house. There had been two other omegas in his class, but both of them had failed, the additional tests they put omegas through proving to be too much. But Buck had passed and was being sent to a house that had gained a pretty good reputation over the years. 

Buck didn’t tell any of his housemates about this, obviously they knew he’d passed and he’d gotten some congratulations in passing but they didn’t know about which house he’d been assigned to or any of the details, like how he’d come in the top five in his class even though he was an omega, even beating multiple alphas. 

The 118 was great, it was everything Buck could’ve hoped for and more. His Captain was an alpha but unlike the other alphas he’d encountered in the fire department so far he didn’t seem to care that Buck was an omega, never making comments or snide remarks about how he was ‘good for an omega’ or any of the other back handed compliments he’d gotten from instructors at the Academy. 

At the 118 Buck was treated as an equal. 

As the months passed Buck settled into his life as a probationary firefighter, and began to get close to the alpha/beta paramedic duo, Hen and Chimney. He also got along well with his Captain, who’d welcomed him with open arms, the only problem being that the man kept probing into Buck’s life. 

At the one month mark he was called into Bobby’s office, and he was pretty sure he knew what this was about and he was terrified. 

“Look, Buck, I really need that emergency contact information. I know you’re feral and hold your own medical rights but I still need to know who to call if something happens to you.” Bobby said, looking over his desk at Buck, his face kind and open but it still managed to make Buck uncomfortable. Well, it wasn’t Bobby who was making him uncomfortable, it was the topic at hand. 

“I, uh, I don’t have one.” He cringed, “It’s just me. Feral through and through.” He added with an awkward chuckle. 

Bobby’s face fell at that, “No one?” 

“I’m estranged, Cap, that’s how I ended up packless, and I don’t talk to my sister anymore. There’s my housemates, but they would do more harm than good if they were my emergency contacts.” 

Somehow Bobby managed to look even more concerned, “Buck, are you safe in your housing situation?” 

“Yeah, no, I, uh, I’m fine. I just live with a bunch of wild, trust fund alphas who party way too much. Not exactly the picture of responsibility.” 

Bobby nodded to himself, “Okay. Are you happy for me to put myself down then?” Buck nodded, “Thanks kid.” Bobby began to scribble some stuff down before he looked back up at Buck, “My pack is having dinner tonight at mine and my wife’s house, why don’t you come along? Hen and Chimney will be there, and you’ve already met Athena a few times. We’re not a big pack so it’s not overwhelming, so if you want to come by it would be really nice to have you there.”

“Oh, uh, th-thank you, but I, uh, I don’t want to intrude.” Buck stammered. 

Bobby gave him a kind smile, his face open and filled with nothing but genuine kindness, “You wouldn’t be intruding, kid, it would be lovely to have you there.” 

“Well, uh, in, in that case then, yeah, that would be nice.” 

Bobby was clearly pleased with that, “Good. You can head back out now, but I’ll text you the address in a little bit, unless you’d like a lift?” 

“It’s good, I can drive, but thank you.” 

Dinner with the Grant-Nash pack went well, so well that he was invited back again, and again, and again. Until after a month and a half Bobby and Athena sat him down. 

“Buckaroo, we were wondering,” Athena began, “Would you like to join the pack? Officially, that is.” 

Buck couldn’t stop the shy smile that appeared on his face, “Are you sure?” 

“We wouldn’t offer if we weren’t.” Bobby said, giving Buck that smile that seemed to be reserved just for him. 

“Uh, okay, uh, y-yeah, I’d love to join.” 

Bobby and Athena both beamed at him, “Perfect, I’ll get the paperwork started in the morning.” The former said, “Are you happy for me to be put down as your pack alpha?” The Grant-Nash pack wasn’t the most traditional of packs given they had two pack alphas as opposed to the typical one, but Bobby and Athena were such a good pair that it just made sense, the two of them so in tune it was like there was one alpha running the pack. But as Buck could only have one pack alpha on his ID they had to choose between the two of them. But it made sense that it would be Bobby given he was also his Captain, meaning Bobby could protect him in the field should he need to. 

“Yeah, that’s good.” Buck replied, a shy smile on his face. 

“So, he’s no longer feral, isn’t that a miracle.” Marcus joked, clapping Buck on the back before handing him a beer, “Never thought we’d see the day. 

“Miracles really do come true.” Jude added. 

“Does that mean you’re moving in with the pack? Or do they not want you living with them?” Jordan asked. 

Buck took a swig of his beer, feeling a bit uncomfortable, “Uh, they don’t live in a pack house, so I’m staying here.” Buck didn’t miss the look the alphas gave each other, but he couldn’t decipher what it meant so just shrugged it off. 

“Well, drink up.” Connor said, “This isn’t going to celebrate itself.”

Buck was sure there had to be something wrong with the beer his housemates kept buying. The label said it had a low alcohol content but it hit Buck hard. When he usually had beer with the same abv when he was with his pack (his pack! He couldn’t believe he got to say his pack now) or on a night out he didn’t feel this drunk after only three so there had to be something wrong with it. Because here he was, leaning heavily against Jordan’s side, feeling drunk as all hell. 

Jordan scratched Buck’s head, getting a loud purr out of him. Jordan was only ever gentle and affectionate like this when Buck had been drinking at home, but it was nice. When Jordan was being nice Buck felt good, it made up for the way he acted when Buck was sober. 

Then Jude gently took Buck’s wrist, beginning to massage the gland there, making Buck relax even more.

“That’s it omega,” Jordan cooed as Buck began scenting against him, “You’re doing so good, such a sweet little thing.” He pressed a kiss to the top of Buck's head which prompted Buck to lift his head and nose at Jordan’s jaw. 

Jordan made the most of the new angle Buck’s head was at, turning his head so he could place a gentle kiss on his lips. Buck melted into it before Jordan was encouraging him into his lap, so Buck was straddling him. Jordan took his face in his hands and deepened the kiss, Buck instinctively opening his mouth and letting the alpha in. 

“So,” Jordan began, pulling back from the kiss momentarily, “Tell us about this pack of yours, what are they like?” 

“They’re really kind.” Buck sighed as Jordan began kissing his neck glands, “The majority of them are from the firehouse. One of my pack alphas is my Captain, the other, his wife, is a cop.” He explained. 

“Two pack alphas?” Jordan said with a chuckle, his breath tickling Buck’s neck gland, “That’s a new one.” 

Buck let out a happy little hum, “Yeah, we’re a particularly non-traditional pack.” 

“Makes sense, a freak of an omega joining a freakish pack.” After speaking Jordan went back to kissing Buck on the lips.

Two days later Buck was still feeling like crap as he traipsed into work. He was only twenty-six but apparently he couldn’t hold his booze as well as he used to.

“Evan? Can you just calm the fuck down?” Jordan snapped, looking over at the omega who was stress cleaning as he tried to get Devon out of his head. 

“Sorry, sorry.” Buck muttered but he didn’t stop, too focused on his task and the look of resignation from Devon when he let go of the rollercoaster. 

“I’m serious, Evan, it’s annoying. I’m trying to watch the game and you’re being distracting.” 

“Sorry, need to keep busy.” Buck’s voice was distant, not looking away from the DVDs he was arranging so the spines were in rainbow order. 

Jordan huffed, “You need to stop, man.”

“Can’t stop.”

“Quit being a dick.” 

“Sorry, can’t stop.” 

“Fine, have it your way.” Jordan stood and stalked over to Buck, a large hand encompassing the back of Buck’s neck. He began to massage the omega’s neck gland with as much pressure as possible, Buck going limp as he was forced into a deep Alpha Sleep. Satisfied that Buck wouldn’t wake up until the alpha brought him out of it, Jordan went back to watching the game.

An hour later Connor walked in, immediately clocking Buck on the floor by the DVD shelf, “What’s wrong with him?”

“He was annoying me so I shut him up.”

“Alpha Sleep?” Jordan nodded, “At least move him somewhere comfortable.”

“Don’t have time, the game’s on.” Jordan’s eyes didn’t leave the TV. 

Connor huffed, “Come on man, you know he can do you for alpha negligence if you leave him on the floor like that whilst in an Alpha Sleep you initiated.” 

Jordan finally looked over at Connor, “You know he wouldn’t do that.”

“No, but he might tell his pack alpha’s, one of which is a cop, and I wouldn’t put it past her to do anything.” Connor reminded him. 

Jordan snorted, “What? Are you trying to get in his good books so he’ll be your rut partner next week?” 

“No.” Connor scoffed, “I’m just trying to be a good alpha.” 

“Yeah, yeah, whatever.” Jordan waved him off and went back to watching the game, “Move him if you want to move him, I don’t care, just don’t wake him up.” 

Connor tutted, “Don’t worry, I’m not going to step on your toes, he’s all yours.”

“Good, you can leave him in my room then.”

“Jordan, what are you planning on doing to him?” Connor asked, worried about where this was going. Jordan was the most dominant of all of them in the house, essentially taking on a role similar to a pack alpha as he was the biggest, strongest, most stereotypically alpha of the whole house, standing at an impressive 6ft 7 and built like a brick shithouse. But that also meant he saw Buck as much lower than the rest of them, hence why he would just put Buck into Alpha Sleep whenever he felt like it. It also meant that Connor was worried about why Jordan wanted him to move Buck to his room.

“Oh relax, I’m not going to fuck him, I’m just being a good alpha. Isn’t that what you want me to be?” He replied sarcastically. 

“Good, but if I find out you have, I swear to God Jordan.”

“What? You’ll duel me? Do you really care about him that much?” 

“Jordan-”

“Do you want to mate him? Is that what this is? You want him as a mate?” Jordan mocked. 

“You know I’m only into women, so stop being a cunt.” Connor snapped. 

Jordan sneered at him, “You’re missing out, male omegas can be real good fun.” 

“We’re not all you Jordan, not all of us are attracted to only omegas.” As he spoke Connor knelt down and lifted Buck up and carried him to Jordan’s room, dumping him on the bed and then leaving.

 Buck was awoken by a sharp, pinching sensation to his neck gland, causing him to jerk back into consciousness. 

“Move.” Jordan commanded.

Buck was groggy so he had to sit up slowly, blinking heavily as he tried to figure out where he was, quickly realising it was Jordan’s room. Buck looked down, thankfully he was fully clothed and Jordan’s bed was neatly made. 

“I didn’t fuck you.” Jordan scoffed, “Don’t worry. Just thought you might be more comfortable with my scent given I’m the one who put you to sleep in the first place.” Jordan hadn’t actually cared about Buck’s comfort, he’d just wanted to get Connor off of his back. If it had been up to him Buck would still be on the floor in the lounge. But Connor was too soft, that had always been his biggest weakness, too soft for his own good. Jordan flopped down onto the bed next to Buck who just looked at him, confused. “You can stay or you can go, I really don’t care. But if you’re going to stay, at least be an omega about it.” 

Buck was still feeling groggy from the Alpha Sleep, he was always spacey after one of them, so he didn’t feel like he could get up, instead lying down and wrapping himself around Jordan, scenting himself against him. 

Jordan was only attracted to omegas, regardless of their primary gender, he liked the power that came with it. And although he wasn’t attracted to Buck (he looked too much like an alpha for Jordan’s liking, a male omega being over 5ft 10 or a female omega being over 5ft 3 were massive turn offs for him) he was able to lie to himself when he smelt the sweet strawberries of omega pheromones, pretend he was with a real omega, a pretty omega. 

Jordan let out a content sigh as Buck nuzzled into his neck, the alpha scratching the omega's head so he could hear the soothing purr. 

There weren’t many perks to having Buck in the house but this was definitely one of them, and it helped that Buck was hypersensitive to scenting, the action turning him into a pathetic little thing that couldn’t protect itself. Jordan liked him in this state, it made him actually tolerable.

It was pretty much the only reason he’d voted to let him stay, knowing having an omega to scent with like this whenever he wanted would make everything 1000x better. Even if it was with an oversized omega whose body was too muscular and solid, lacking the typical squishiness of a proper omega, but it was a small price to pay. 

With one hand Jordan lifted one of Buck’s wrists to his mouth, sucking on the gland there, whilst his other hand continued to scratch the omega’s scalp, keeping him docile and submissive. 

He loved the taste of omega scent oil, what with it tasting exactly how it smelt, so he sucked and licked at the wrist gland, leaving a hickey there as he let himself enjoy the flavour of omega.

Buck had the weekend off which meant the alphas could play their favourite game; make Buck talk. 

The first time had been so much fun, finally learning about his past that they kept doing it. It was simple enough to achieve, Jordan knew people who were able to get him top quality pheromone and hormone stimulants. At first they’d slip them into his beer, but the third time they’d done it Jude decided that they should just tell him that they were something to stop him from being too hungover in the morning and that he should take them if they gave them to him. And as he was under pheromone coercion it had been easy enough for them to convince him of it. 

So they got Buck to join them in the lounge, Marcus handing him three stimulants which Buck took with a swig of his beer. 

It didn’t take long to kick in, the four alphas able to smell it on him, allowing them to begin scenting him with their wrists and scratching his head, different techniques for calming omegas which would lull him into a state, that appeared and felt extremely similar to being drunk, where he’d do whatever they told him to and then, once they’d worn off, leave him with those thoughts in his head and the belief that he wanted to follow them. 

So they scented him and scratched his head and massaged his wrist and ankle glands, placing kisses on the glands and a few on the lips, turning Buck to putty. 

Ready to answer any and all questions they asked. 

Buck was supposed to have the whole weekend to recover; the Saturday so any remaining stimulants could leave his system and then Sunday to actually rest. 

But Sunday morning found Buck awake at six, in the kitchen, eating a slice of toast. 

“You’re up early. How are you feeling?” Connor asked.

“Shit.” Buck grumbled. 

“Then go back to sleep.” Connor told him with a chuckle.

Buck huffed, “I can’t, Bobby’s covering B shift and he’s now down a firefighter so he asked if I could come in.”

“So you said yes?” If Buck went into work that was very bad news, he wasn’t back to his usual self, someone would know that something was wrong with him.

“Yeah, Bobby needs me.” He shrugged. 

Connor needed to stop him from going in, “I don’t think that’s a good idea, it’s supposed to be your weekend off.”

Buck put his plate in the dishwasher, “Yeah, but he needs help so I’m picking up the extra shift.”

“But you need this time to recover, let a beta or alpha do it, you’re an omega so you need to spend the time resting.” 

“I’m fine Connor, seriously, I’ll be fine.” Buck reassured him. 

“Evan-” Connor called after him as Buck went to his room to get dressed.

Buck felt exhausted, but he wasn’t going to turn down the extra shift, so he went in anyway. 

Once he got to the station he changed slowly, slapping on his scent patches before trudging up to the loft. 

“Buck, hey.” Bobby called out, but as soon as he saw the omega's face he frowned, “What’s up kid?” 

“Just tired.” Buck sighed, flopping down on the bar stool so he could watch Bobby cook.

“Wild night out with your housemates?” Bobby asked, trying to hide his concern behind a jokey tone.

“No, I-” Buck looked off into the middle distance, confused for a second, “I didn’t do anything, I don’t think…?” 

That was enough to have Bobby no longer hiding his concern, “If you’re unwell you should’ve said, I could’ve got a floater in instead, I just remembered that you’d been asking about additional shifts.” Over the last few months Buck had been looking sicker and sicker, his face slowly becoming pallid as he lost muscle mass and became more tired, it wasn’t affecting his performance on the job, but Bobby was concerned about him as his pack alpha rather than his Captain. 

“No, no, I’m not unwell, I’m fine, seriously.” 

Bobby turned the stove off and removed the pan from the hob, walking around the island so he was standing next to Buck, the young omega turning so they were facing each other, “Are you getting enough sleep?” Buck opened his mouth to respond but Bobby knew exactly what he was going to say so shut him down immediately, “Enough sleep for an omega.” He clarified, knowing omegas typically required more sleep than alphas and betas. 

“When I’m off shift, yeah.” Buck told him, thankfully telling the truth. 

Bobby analysed him for a second before nodding, “Alright, but you’re man behind today, okay?” 

Buck’s face dropped, “Bobby, come on, I’m fine.” 

“You’re man behind.” He reiterated before going to continue cooking. And who was he to argue with his pack alpha?

Buck was laying in bed, scrolling through his phone, when his bedroom door opened. Buck looked over to find Jude leaning against his doorframe, “Hey Evan.” He greeted. 

“Jude, hey, wh-what can I do for you?” 

“I’m bored and lonely.” He said, not waiting for an invitation before walking into Buck’s room and sitting on the bed next to him. 

Jude didn’t really have much of a concept of personal space when it came to omegas, plus he and Buck had a weird thing going on where Buck would provide comfort for Jude should he require it. It was a fairly mutually beneficial situation and it wasn’t sexual, it was just when Jude craved the kind of contact and comfort only an omega could provide he’d come to Buck. And Buck would do anything he could to be able to be physically close to someone so it suited him just fine, even if they only ever did it when Jude wanted it, Buck not getting a say in the schedule. 

Jude looked around the room and inhaled deeply before standing, “We’re doing this in my room.” He decided, already walking out, Buck scurrying after him. 

Saying that, they usually did this in Jude’s room on account of Buck having the shittest room in the house, a decision that he hadn’t had a say in, it was part of the terms that came with him being allowed to keep living there. 

So into Jude’s room they went, the alpha pulling his top off as soon as he crossed the threshold, Buck copying once he’d closed the door behind him. The alpha had a preference for skin to skin contact (which was more than okay with Buck because he was the same) so the both of them ended up in their underwear under the covers, curled together, scenting against each other. 

Buck didn’t know how much time had passed but eventually Jude rolled on top of him and began placing gentle kisses to the omega’s cheeks, forehead, jaw and the tip of his nose. One of his hands came around and cupped the back of Buck’s head, fingers massaging his scalp whilst his other hand was braced against Buck’s sternum, actively avoiding Buck’s sports bra, because although the two of them did this semi-frequently and Jude always got very close he downright refused to touch anything particularly intimate as well as refusing to have sex with Buck (he’d made it abundantly clear when they’d started doing this that he didn’t find Buck attractive in the slightest and that this was only so he could satisfy his needs to be physically close to an omega). 

Buck let himself relax under Jude’s hands and lips, he hadn’t had sex in a while, he’d been too tired to go out and try pick up people at bars, so he’d been craving an alpha’s touch. 

Well, that wasn’t strictly true; he’d obviously been curling up with Bobby, Hen and Athena, but his relationship with the alphas in his pack were purely platonic, so it didn’t scratch the same itch as something like this. And even if this wasn’t going to end in sex, having an alphas lips on him sure did help. 

Jude then moved down to one of Buck’s neck glands sucking it but careful to keep his teeth out of the equation, hyper careful as the thought of even getting close to mating Buck made him want to be physically sick (even though his fangs hadn’t dropped and his lack of attraction to Buck meant he couldn’t produce mating venom even if they’d been having sex), but he enjoyed the taste of omega scent oil too much. 

Buck couldn’t hold back the purr which got a chuckle out of Jude, “So sensitive.” He teased, running his tongue over the scent gland he’d been sucking on, making Buck shiver and his purr get even louder. 

Jude then raised himself up and moved back up to Buck’s face, this time kissing the omega on the lips. Buck’s lips immediately parted and the alpha slid his tongue into the open mouth, asserting dominance over the omega’s tongue instantly. 

As he got lost in the sensation Buck wrapped his legs around Jude’s waist only for the alpha to pull back and grab Buck’s legs, forcing his feet to the bed so he was in semi-supine, his heels almost touching his ass, Jude putting far too much pressure on his ankle glands, Buck whimpering in pain.

“We don’t do that.” Jude snapped, Buck immediately began whimpering and whining in submission, “You do anything like that again and I’ll punish you! How does a multi-day Alpha Sleep sound?”

Buck shook his head vigorously, “No, please, I’m sorry, I’m so sorry, it won’t happen again, I promise.” 

“Good.” Jude released his ankles, Buck going limp as the pain stopped. Jude stood and climbed out of the bed, pulling his clothes back on, “Get out.” He ordered. 

“The fuck are you doing here?” Jordan asked. He hadn’t expected to walk into the lounge and find Buck sitting on the couch, watching tv, “I thought you were out tonight?” 

Buck looked over at him, “Change of plans, we had to rearrange.” 

Jordan scowled at him, “Well we have plans too, plans that involve you being out.” 

“I’ll stay out of your way, don’t worry.” Buck assured him. 

“Don’t care, just knowing you’re here will ruin the mood.”

“Oh come on Jordan, that’s a bit dramatic, don’t you think.” 

Jordan huffed, “I don’t want the freakishly tall omega able to walk in on an orgy with real omegas.” 

“Well, I have nowhere else to go tonight, but I’ll make sure I don’t get in your way, I promise.” 

“Do you really have nowhere to go, or are you just saying that?” The alpha probed. 

“If I could be away from your orgy I would be, trust me.” 

Jordan analysed Buck’s face for a second. Once he was satisfied that Buck was telling the truth he came and sat down on the couch with the omega, a wicked grin on his face. It was the grin he got when he was about to do something Buck wouldn’t like, which never failed to fill him with dread. 

And then Jordan's thumbs were on Buck’s neck glands, putting as much pressure on them as possible, massaging them painfully, “I’ll wake you once I feel like it.” He promised as Buck fell into Alpha Sleep, collapsing forward into Jordan’s lap. 

Jordan stood and lifted Buck over his shoulder and carried him to the omega’s room. He dumped Buck on the bed and then went to the bathroom to grab the box of scent patches he knew Buck kept in there. 

When he got back to Buck’s room he opened the box, glad to find it was full to the brim, so he had more than enough to cover all of Buck’s scent glands. He knew the risk was low but he didn’t need their guests getting even the slightest whiff of the omega in his room. And of course Buck only stocked the ones that were required by the LAFD; the strong, expensive kind that lasted for a week and hid their scent so well even the strongest of noses couldn’t detect it. 

So Jordan covered up all of Buck’s glands; neck, wrists, ankles and inner thighs, and because he was a nice person he tucked the omega up under the covers and turned the lights off before leaving. 

“Is he still not picking up?” Hen asked, not even trying to conceal her worry.

“No, nothing.” Bobby huffed, going to dial Buck again. The kid was actually pretty good at being punctual, so the fact that they were three hours into a shift and he still hadn’t shown up or contacted one of them was concerning to say the least. Because if Buck was late, it was never by more than thirty minutes, so three hours was sending alarm bells ringing. When his phone yet again went to voice mail Bobby let out a huff, “That’s it, I’m going over to his.” He decided, pocketing his phone, “Chim, you’re in charge.” And then he left.

He made it to Buck’s in record time, using the sirens on the captain's truck, because this was most definitely an emergency. 

He haphazardly parked up in front of Buck’s house and began pounding on the door. 

After a minute a very rumpled looking alpha opened the door, “What?” He growled, looking down at Bobby, nostrils instinctively trying to sniff out Bobby’s secondary gender before processing the uniform. But with that he was also able to see the ‘α’ in the centre of his shield and embroidered in shiny red thread on one of his sleeves. 

“I’m here for Evan Buckley.” Bobby said, tone calm and professional. 

The alpha at the door scoffed, “Right, of course, ‘Nash’.” 

“Is he home?” Bobby asked. 

He watched as a series of emotions flickered over the alpha’s face before he managed to shut it down, flashing a fang at Bobby, “He’s not home right now. I assumed he was at work.” 

But as good of a face the alpha was putting on, Bobby could smell him, could smell the panic that told Bobby he was more than likely lying. 

“Tell me where he is.” 

“I don’t know man, but he’s not here.” 

Bobby analysed the alpha, taking in his height and demeanour, there was only one housemate that this could be, “You’re Jordan, aren’t you?” 

“What does it matter?” 

“Well, Jordan, I’m pretty sure you know where a member of my pack is, a member who just so happens to be an omega, so you’re going to tell me where he is or I’m going to escalate this.” 

“He’s not fucking here.” Jordan growled, “So fucking leave.” Bobby just pushed past him into the house, “Hey, you can’t just walk in here!” 

“I can.” Bobby didn’t turn around, just walking through the house, hoping to find Buck or something that would give him a hint to his whereabouts, “I’m just a concerned pack alpha looking for a missing omega.” 

“And you’re in my house!”

“Where my omega lives, so I have every right to enter.” 

Jordan grabbed Bobby’s wrist, pulling the man to face him, fangs bared, “No you don’t.” He snarled. 

Bobby scoffed, pulling his wrist from Jordan’s grip, “God, you young alphas seem to have forgotten your manners and pack protection laws. So let me remind you; if a pack alpha is worried about an omega in their pack, who, by law is considered their property, that alpha has the right to enter any building where that omega may reside if they do not live with their pack.” Bobby always hated bringing up the fact that he had legal rights over Buck, but as Buck was an omega in the Grant-Nash pack the law dictated that he was now the property of the pack alpha. And as they had two pack alphas it had been decided that Bobby would be the one to ‘own’ (God he hated that word) Buck as it made the most sense with work. But right now he had to pull the ‘that’s my omega’ card as it meant he could get into the house and Jordan wouldn’t be able to kick him out, it was for the greater good he kept reminding himself, “So, due to the fact that Buck is deemed ‘my property’ by law, that makes his portion of rights to this house, the portion that is granted to him as a rent paying resident who is on the lease, a lease which I have seen and have a copy of for safe keeping, mine. So I have every right to be here, is that clear?” 

“What the fuck are you talking about?” 

“I’m simply quoting the law,” Bobby told him, “A law you clearly don’t understand. But you are more than welcome to look it up, I won’t stop you.” Jordan pulled out his phone so he could look it up, “Whilst you do that, which room is Buck’s?” 

Jordan glared at him, “Not telling you until I know you’re not lying to me.” 

Bobby crossed his arms and watched Jordan. He didn’t have a choice, but God he knew he needed to be with Buck right now.

He smelt Jordan’s scent begin to turn sour, an indicator of his fear and anxiety, meaning he’d just confirmed that Bobby was telling the truth. 

“Follow me.” He finally grumbled. As Bobby legally had claim to residency and was the eldest alpha in the house it now made him the dominant one, Jordan having no choice but to submit. 

He took Bobby upstairs and down the corridor until they got to the room at the far end, “This is him.” Jordan mumbled, which told Bobby Buck was most definitely in there and Jordan had done something. 

Bobby opened the door to be greeted by the sight of a pale, sweaty Buck lying in bed.

“Buck?” He called out as he stepped into the room but he didn’t get a response. “Buck?” He tried again, shaking Buck’s shoulder. The kid looked terrible, he looked sick, sicker than Bobby had ever seen him before. He then spotted the scent patch on Buck’s neck and peeled it off only for an absolutely foul stench to hit his nose, the smell of a mouldy and decaying strawberry patch hitting him and Jordan, making them both gag. 

“What did you do to him?” Bobby growled, demanding an answer as he looked at Jordan’s guilty face, the alpha curling in on himself as a sign of submission to the angry alpha that sat high above him on the hierarchy. 

“I put him in an Alpha Sleep.” Jordan squeaked out. 

Bobby inspected him for a second, “This isn’t the first time, is it?” Jordan shook his head, “How often?” 

“Once a week.” Bobby began to growl at him so Jordan rushed to add on, “Only for an hour or two, maybe three, nothing major. A-and I always let him scent and get comfort afterwards, I promise.” 

“I don’t give a shit about the aftercare, you have no right to keep putting him under.” He then looked back over to Buck, beginning to peel off the other scent patches, “But this time it wasn’t a few hours, was it?” 

“Uh, n-no.” 

“How long?” Bobby demanded, head snapping back to look at the younger alpha, but Jordan refused to make eye contact, “Tell me, how fucking long?” Bobby stood slowly, his claws beginning to extend, his fangs already in place. 

“Th-three days?” Jordan stammered, “Three days, okay? I’m sorry!” 

“Three days? You kept him in an Alpha Sleep for three days? I can kill you for that! I can kill you for omega endangerment, endangerment of my omega.” 

“I’m sorry, please don’t kill me.” 

Bobby looked down at him, looking at how pathetic the alpha was all curled in on himself, “Call 911 and get the cops and an ambulance, request the 118 and 727-L-30, tell them everything and I won’t kill you.”

“Thank you! Oh God, thank you thank you thank you.” He gushed, pulling his phone out and dialling. 

Bobby then blocked Jordan out, all of his focus on Buck. Bobby pushed a thumb into Buck’s neck gland, “Come on kid, wake up for me.” He whispered, putting more and more pressure on the gland, but he wasn’t getting any kind of reaction out of him, not even a subconscious reaction to the pain that the pressure was no doubt causing because of how much force he was putting behind it. 

Bobby then changed tactics, pinching one gland and then the other as hard as he could, still not getting a reaction out of him. 

“Shit.” He then turned to Jordan, “Tell them he’s critical!” 

All Bobby could really do whilst he waited for help was keep trying to wake Buck up, so that’s what he did, trying as many different ways as possible to stimulate the omega’s neck glands, but nothing was working. 

“They’re here.” Jordan’s voice eventually cut through Bobby’s focus, the younger alpha leaving the room to let Athena and the 118 in. 

Hen and Chim were the first in the room, medkits in hand, “Fuck, what happened?” Chimney asked, pulling on a pair of gloves. 

“He’ll tell you.” Bobby hissed, turning his attention to Jordan, “Won’t you?” 

“He’s, uh, he’s been in Alpha Sleep, for, uh, for three days.” 

“Three days?” Hen looked appalled.

“And who did it?” Athena asked, although she was pretty sure, based off of Bobby and Jordan’s demeanours, she knew who. 

“Me.” Jordan squeaked out. 

“Why?” She demanded as Hen and Chim began to work on Buck.

Suddenly, a little bit of Jordan’s ego flared up, “What does it matter, just save him!”

“It matters because you’ve committed a serious case of omega endangerment, and right now Buck’s life hangs in the balance. And if he doesn’t make it that charge goes from omega endangerment to murder. So tell me; why did you do it?” 

“We had people over.” Jordan bit out, “We had people over and he was supposed to be out but he had a change of plans. I didn’t want him getting in the way so I put him under.”

“Then why didn’t you wake him up?” Bobby demanded. 

“Because I forgot he was here.” The young alpha snapped, “I forgot he was in his room, in an Alpha Sleep, so I forgot to come and wake him up.” 

Bobby and Athena were both shocked by that but it was Athena who spoke first, “You ‘forgot’? How do you ‘forget’ that you’ve got an omega tucked away in Alpha Sleep for three days?” 

“I’d gotten really drunk, so it slipped my mind. And it’s not like it’s uncommon to not see him for days on end, you know? Like he’ll go and do a 48 hour shift and then go over to one of yours, so it’s not like it was out of the ordinary.” 

There was suddenly a loud gasp from the bed, “Cap, we’ve got him back but we need to get him to the hospital, asap.” 

“You go with them, I’ve got this covered.” Athena told Bobby as she pulled her cuffs out. Bobby nodded at her in thanks before running off after the paramedic duo and Buck. 

Athena couldn’t believe it, she couldn’t believe it had escalated so badly. 

None of them were big fans of Buck’s housing arrangement, they’d all known the alphas were bad news, but none of them had been able to put their fingers on why exactly that was.

But now, standing behind the two-way mirror, watching Rick interrogate Jordan whilst Buck was in a coma at the hospital, she couldn’t help but feel guilty for not pushing harder to get Buck out of there. 

“So tell me,” The beta detective began, "Sergeant Grant told me that the reason you put Mr Buckley in Alpha Sleep was because you had ‘people over’, is that correct?” 

“Yeah.” Jordan mumbled, arms crossed, slumped back in his seat. 

“Run me through the logic of that, because I don’t think I quite get it, why would you put someone in Alpha Sleep just because you’ve got people over.”

“He was supposed to be out, I dunno, meeting up with some girl or something, said he wouldn’t be home until morning. So we arranged to have some omegas over, but I got home and Evan was there, on the couch, but he wasn’t supposed to be.” 

“Okay, and then what?” 

“What?” 

Athena didn’t understand why Jordan looked confused, why his response to that had simply been ‘what’. 

“What did he do next? What did he do to make you put him in Alpha Sleep?” 

Jordan cocked his head, “Nothing.”

Athena was taken aback by that, and clearly Rick was too, “You put him into Alpha Sleep because he was home when he wasn’t supposed to be?” 

“Yeah, obviously.” 

“Obviously?” Rick repeated, “What do you mean obviously?”

“Look, you wouldn’t get it because you’re a beta, but an omega like Evan isn’t natural, and when we have other omegas around we don’t need them seeing him or knowing about him. So when I found out he’d be home I had to do something about it. So I put him in Alpha Sleep, covered up his scent glands and left him in bed so no one could see or smell him.” Jordan sneered, “And I forgot to wake him up, big whoop, but it doesn’t matter, he’s good for a bit of fun and that’s it!” 

Athena couldn’t believe what she was hearing, the way this man was speaking about Buck. Her wolf was howling to take control, to burst in there and kill Jordan right then and there but she had to be professional, so she did her best to calm herself. 

“And when you say ‘a bit of fun’ what do you mean?” 

“We don’t rape him if that’s what you’re asking.” Jordan snapped, “Why would we want to fuck a freak when there are plenty of real omegas we can get without having to even try.” 

“So what kind of ‘fun’ do you have with him?” 

“He’s very good at talking without actually saying anything. So sometimes when we know he’s got some time off, we get him nice and relaxed and get him to open up, get him to tell us whatever we want, it’s a great way to pass the time.” 

“And how do you ‘get him relaxed’?” 

Jordan snorted, “Yeah, I’m not telling you that.” 

“What? Because you’re doing it illegally?” Jordan looked away, not saying anything, “I’m guessing you use pheromone coercion, right?” 

“Got it in one, beta.” He sneered, “You ever seen an omega under pheromone coercion?”

“More than once, and in some pretty dangerous situations.” 

“Well we always do it safely, don’t worry, that would take half the fun away.” 

“And your whole house get involved?” 

Jordan nodded, “Sure, it’s a great house bonding experience. Get Evan relaxed, we get to enjoy the comforts only an omega can give all whilst getting him to tell us whatever we want. It’s great. It’s one of the few times he’s an actual omega, even if he is still too big.” 

They were in Buck’s hospital room when Bobby’s phone rang, everyone’s heads snapping over to him as he pulled it out of his pocket to find Athena calling him. 

He answered it, "Athena, you’re on speaker as Hen and Chim are here as well.” He told her, “What news have you got?”

“Other than confirmation that Jordan is a monster?” A sigh rattled through the speaker, “He frequently puts him into Alpha Sleep and the whole house uses pheromone coercion on him ‘for fun’.” The quotation marks were clear in her voice. 

“Fuck.” Bobby groaned, “How long have they been doing this for?” 

“The whole time they’ve been living in LA apparently.” 

“That’s well over a year.” Hen pointed out, “That must be why he’s so tired all the time.” 

“Repeat exposure to those kinds of things is going to do a number on an omega's brain.” Chimney added, “It’s a miracle he hadn’t deteriorated further.” 

“Do you think they understand the weight of what they’ve done? Do they understand how dangerous it is?” Bobby asked. 

“It’s hard to say, but either way Jordan clearly doesn’t care.” 

“He cared when I threatened to kill him over it.” Bobby grumbled. 

“He’s a stereotypical alpha in every sense of the word, so of course he’d submit to an alpha that’s above him on the hierarchy but not a beta, even if the beta does hold all of the power in this given situation.” 

“Are they going to bring the rest of the house in?” Hen asked. 

“There are officers already on the way to pick them up.” Athena informed them. 

Bobby nodded, clearly pleased with that, “Good, that’s good. They can all be charged, can’t they?” 

“Yes, they can.” Athena assured him, “They’ve all been involved in the abuse of an omega and, if they can find the hormone and pheromone stimulants in the house, use of pheromone coercion. They’re looking at at least five years.” 

“That’s if the jury rules in Buck’s favour.” Chim pointed out. 

“He’s in a coma, they’ll rule in his favour.” Hen said. Juries had a tendency to rule in favour of alphas but with Buck hospitalised and in a coma as a result of repeat abuse that majorly swayed the case in his direction. 

“They’ve just brought Jude in, I’ve got to go.” Athena told them, “Let me know how he’s doing.”

“Of course.” Bobby promised, “Let us know how the other interrogations go.”

“Evan’s great.” Jude said, shrugging, “I mean, he’s really fucking weird, but he’s good fun.”

“Good fun, like when you put him under pheromone coercion?” Rick asked. 

Jude’s face darkened, “What’s he been telling you?”

“Nothing.” Rick replied, “He’s in a coma.” 

Jude paled at that, “A-a coma? W-why? How?” 

“Were you aware Jordan was keeping him locked away in his room for three days in an Alpha Sleep?” Clearly Jude wasn’t very good at controlling his facial expressions because it wasn’t hard to tell that he very much did know, “And you didn’t think to do anything? Help him at all?” 

“The house rule is whoever puts him under is the one in charge of him, I wasn’t going to step on Jordan’s toes. That’s how fights happen.” 

“So you let him lay there for three days, when it is well known that anything longer than ten hours is dangerous?” 

“He wasn’t my concern. Besides I would’ve liked him to wake up, I needed him, but that’s none of my business.” 

“What do you need him for?” Rick asked, intrigued by that. 

Jude looked away, getting uncomfortable, “We, we have this thing where when I need comfort from an omega I go to him. It’s totally consensual, I swear! We just lie in bed and scent and kiss and stuff, but he is fully in his right mind when we do that.” 

“Look, I hate it when Jordan puts Evan in Alpha Sleep.” Connor said, “It’s not fair on him, but there’s nothing I can do.”

“Because of the house rule?” Rick asked, looking unimpressed. 

“We have many house rules, you need to be more specific.” 

“The one where whoever puts Evan under is responsible for him? Why? Are there other Alpha Sleep rules?” 

“You don’t touch Evan without the permission of the alpha who put him under. You don’t wake him if you’re not the one who put him under. And you don’t talk to him about it if you’re not the one who put him under.” Connor rattled off, “But I always encourage the guys to at least make sure Evan is comfortable, and I never put him under.” 

“But you don’t stop it.” Rick pointed out. 

“Because I’m not allowed to.” Connor protested, “Look, I get it, you don’t know Jordan, but going against him is dangerous. I do as much as I can, but there’s only so much you can do before he gets aggressive.” 

“So you’re scared of him?” 

“You would be too if you knew him properly.” 

“It was Jordan’s idea.” Marcus protested. 

“But you go along with it.” Rick reminded him, “From what I’ve heard you actively help with the coercion.” 

Marcus curled in on himself at that, looking uncomfortable, “Y-yeah, but everyone in the house does, I’m not the only one!” 

“You are aware that by helping put him under coercion you are just as guilty as people like Jordan, correct?” Marcus nodded, “And you still went along with it?” 

“Well, we weren’t supposed to have gotten caught!”

“And how did you intend on covering your tracks?” 

“One of the things we do with the coercion is make sure Evan doesn’t tell anyone, we put it in his head that he’s willingly answering our questions and that he’s just drunk. But it clearly didn’t work this time.” He tacked on the last sentence with a grumble, “Who’d he tell? His pack alphas?” 

“He didn’t tell anyone.” Rick said, “The other boys in your house did.” 

“What? Why?” 

“Because Evan is in a coma.” 

“So?” Bobby asked as Athena stepped into Buck’s hospital room. 

“They’re all being charged.” She reported, “And they found the stimulants in the house, so they’re being stuck with; coercion, endangerment and neglect. So they should get a minimum of five years when you combine all of those.” 

“And what does Rick think the odds are of them being convicted?” Hen sighed. 

“It’s high, but not guaranteed."

Three weeks. It took three weeks for Buck to wake up. And those three weeks were hell. 

Whenever they could, at least one member of the Grant-Nash pack would sit with him, and at least one of the alpha’s would try to be there. Not that that was hard as Hen and Karen would always go together, Chimney often tagging along too. 

But the alphas would sit with him, scenting him as much as they could, whilst synthetic pheromones were also administered, in the hopes of stabilising Buck. 

But in the end it was a long three weeks spent worrying about the omega’s health, the fear of him deteriorating all too real. Until finally his eyes fluttered open. 

“Buck?” Both Bobby and Athena were by his side when he woke, Athena being the one to notice and speak, “Buck, baby, are you with me?” 

Buck let out a small grunt before closing his eyes, clearly not very happy to be awake. 

“I’ll get the doctor.” Bobby said, but as he stood to leave Buck grabbed onto his wrist with a weak hand. 

“How about I get the doctor?” Athena suggested, standing and leaving so Bobby could sit on the edge of Buck’s bed. 

Bobby lightly rubbed his wrist gland on Buck’s neck, the omega leaning into the contact. 

“How are you feeling?” Buck simply let out an unhappy grunt in return, making Bobby chuckle a little, “Sleepy?” Buck gave him a small nod, “After all this sleep? You really must’ve been tired.” He joked, trying to keep it light. Buck nodded with a little huff so Bobby kept scenting him with his wrist and let the kid rest until the doctors inevitably woke him up to run tests.

“So what are the doctors saying?” Karen asked, all of the adults in the Grant-Nash pack stood in the corridor outside of Buck’s room. 

“It’ll take time, but he’ll physically be okay.” Bobby told them. 

“Physically?” Hen questioned, not liking the inclusion of that word as it came with far too many implications about Buck’s mental wellbeing. 

Athena sighed, sharing a look with Bobby before she spoke, “He’s been through a lot, even before the coma and prolonged alpha sleep, we’re looking at a year and a half of abuse and manipulation. There’s a good chance, based on what the doctors have observed, that this coma has caused his mental wellbeing to finally tank.” 

“When you say tanked…?” Chimney prompted. 

This time it was Bobby who spoke, “We’re looking at a host of mental health issues alongside the possibility of things like chronic fatigue syndrome.” 

“But the doctors think he’ll eventually be back to our energetic buckaroo, we just need to be patient and supportive.” Athena added, “It will take time and a lot of work but we can get there, as a pack.” 

“Once he’s discharged he’ll come back to ours, where we’re hoping to move him in permanently.” 

“After all this we think living with his pack alphas is the best choice, even if it’s just whilst he’s recovering.” 

Chapter Text

Buck was different after the coma, scarily so. He was quiet and withdrawn, often just staring off into space or losing track of where he was until someone pulled him back to reality. It broke the hearts of everyone in the pack, to see Buck go from a bubbly, energetic, golden retriever to a shell of himself who wasn’t living, he was just ‘there’. 

“Buck?” Athena gently called out, knocking on his bedroom door, “Do you want some dinner?” 

Buck had been at the Grant-Nash house for a month and he hadn’t gotten any better. He hardly left his room, hardly left his bed for that matter, having built his nest on top of it. If he ate, he ate in his room where he kept the curtains drawn so he was laying there in the dark, sleeping the days away. 

So when Athena came to see if he wanted dinner he didn’t say or do anything, just remained curled up in his nest, which didn’t surprise Athena, although it did break her heart. 

“Buck, baby?” She tried again, walking into the room, “I can bring it in here but I need you to eat something for me, you haven’t eaten since breakfast yesterday.” 

She still got no reply so she came and squatted down in front of Buck’s face, careful not to touch his nest, “Sweetheart, you need to eat, please.” Buck just blinked sleepily at her, “Please baby, for me?” 

“Not hungry.” He finally muttered. 

Athena gave him a sad smile, “I know, but you remember what the doctor said? If you don’t start eating soon we’re going to have to consider a feeding tube, hm? So can you try and eat something for me? Please.” 

“Okay.” 

“Here or in the kitchen with us?” 

“Here.” She hadn’t been surprised by that answer, they’d been trying to slowly coax him out of his room, and some days they were successful, but then there were days like today where his system just shut down and he couldn’t do anything, not even get out of bed. 

“Alright baby, I’ll only be a minute.” 

When she walked back into the kitchen Bobby and May were sitting at the table (Harry living with Michael in Miami), “He’s not coming?” May looked downcast at that. 

Athena shook her head, “No, not today.”

“Has he agreed to eat though?” Bobby asked.

“Thankfully yes.”

“Well that’s something at least.” Bobby huffed. 

Athena began to plate up some food for Buck, “But it took the feeding tube threat again.” 

“Maybe it’s not such a bad idea, I mean, he’s hardly eating, he needs to get nutrients somehow.” Bobby shrugged. 

Athena nodded, “You have a point, let’s see how this week goes and take it from there.” 

Suddenly May stood and took Buck’s plate from her Dad before picking up two sets of cutlery and then her own plate, “I’ll take this to him.” She said, not waiting for an answer from her Dad or Bobby. 

May let herself into Buck’s room, using her hip to push the handle down, “Buck? Sorry I didn’t knock, but I’ve got food for you.” She walked around to the other side of the bed where Buck was facing with his back to the door. She held his plate out to him, prompting Buck to sit up, and take it from her. 

“Thanks.” He mumbled. 

May then gave him the cutlery before sitting down on the floor, “How are you feeling?” She asked. 

“Nothing.” He said, voice far off before he put a small bit of carrot in his mouth. 

May frowned, “I’m sorry.” She said.

“Thanks.” Buck muttered, pushing some food around on his plate, “I hope this never happens to you.” May nodded but she didn’t really know what to say to that. Until Buck joined the pack she and her Mom had been the only omegas. But now her Mom lived in Miami with his husband, so it was just May and Buck. But their pack was very alpha heavy, meaning the only other interactions she’d had with omegas in the same pack was with her Mom, and a mother-daughter relationship was very different from that between non-related pack members. 

“How’s school?” Buck eventually asked, moving the conversation away from himself and how he was doing. It seemed like that was the only conversations he had nowadays, just pack members coming to his room and asking if he was alright. But he wasn’t alright, of course he wasn’t alright, he’d been violated and treated like nothing more than some object to be discarded. It was like he had been nothing more than a lamp to his old housemates, just turning him on and off as they saw fit. 

“Yeah, it’s good.” May saw the question for what it was, so she began to tell him all about school and her friends and a tv show she was watching. Anything and everything whilst the two of them ate. 

Buck had been having weekly brain scans at the hospital ever since he’d woken up from the coma. The doctors suspected possible brain damage from everything he’d been put through but because of the nature of the trauma they weren’t able to diagnose it straight away, waiting to see if Buck’s wolf began to repair the damage or not. 

But he’d been living at the Grant-Nash house for just over a month, and before that he’d spent a month in hospital after waking up. So now that he’d officially been awake for two months the doctors were finally going to call it. 

Throughout all of the scans the doctors hadn’t really said much, just that it was ‘inconclusive’, but they’d said that at the two month mark it would be far enough down the line that they could say for certain whether there was going to be long lasting brain damage. 

Buck was sitting between Bobby and Athena in the doctor’s office, waiting for the specialist that had been assigned to Buck’s treatment to come in with the most recent scans. 

“How are you feeling, kid?” Bobby asked, but all he got was a shrug from Buck who was looking down at his hands. 

Athena placed a hand on his back, “It’s going to be alright. No matter what happens we’ve got you, the whole pack’s got you, and we’re going to do everything we can to help you get better.”

“Thanks.” Buck mumbled, resting his head on Athena’s shoulder. 

They fell into silence for a minute before the doctor, Doctor Marlow, walked in, files in hand, “Sorry to keep you waiting.” She apologised, “We were having some problems with the printer.” 

“That’s alright.” Athena said, holding Buck’s hand.

“So, I’m just going to give it to you straight, there is permanent brain damage.” Buck let out a distressed whine so Athena gently scented her wrist against his neck whilst Bobby placed a supportive hand on his knee, “I know that sounds scary but it’s mild and with therapy you should be able to return to your old self and regain some semblance of normalcy.” She explained, trying to put everyone's worries at ease. 

“What kind of things can we expect from this?” Bobby asked. 

“Well, a good portion of the damage is to the part of Evan’s brain that his wolf resides in, as well as the parts of his brain that controls emotions. So getting back to your usual bubbly self will take work, but it is possible. The main concern is that because of the damage your wolf has gone into protection mode, which is also a factor to why you’ve become so withdrawn, it’s trying to protect you.”

But before anyone could reply to that Buck spoke up, “What do you mean ‘some semblance’, am I not going to get fully better?” 

The doctor huffed and gave him a sad smile, “The chances of you recovering from the chronic fatigue syndrome is very low. It can be managed but you’ll never fully recover. Your wolf will also have some lasting damage we can’t do anything about, so your dissociative episodes won’t go away. We can manage them, but you’ll be stuck with them for the rest of your life.” 

“Will I ever return to work? Can I still be a firefighter?” He asked, voice small and scared. 

The doctor sighed, “I don’t know, that depends on how your recovery goes.” 

“But what are the odds?” 

Marlow looked down at her notes, gathering her thoughts, “It’s a 65% chance you won’t be able to.” 

Tears immediately sprung to Buck’s eyes so Athena pulled him into a hug, shushing him soothingly as she encouraged him to scent against her, “That’s it, I’ve got you baby, I’ve got you.” She whispered, needing him to know that he wasn’t alone. 

“Can I ask why?” Bobby said. 

“It’s complicated, but the kind of damage that has been done, one of the things that his wolf may not be able to heal from, is his panic and fear response, and as a result there’s a good chance any high risk rescues will trigger a dissociative episode or worse. If that were the case I wouldn’t be able to sign him off for work. But there’s a chance he could heal enough to resume work.” 

“B-but, it’s all I have.” Buck blubbered into Athena’s shoulder. 

“Hey, no baby, nothing is set in stone just yet, we can focus on getting better and doing everything possible to get you back out there. It’s not over just yet.” 

When they got home Buck went straight to his room and buried himself in his nest, breaking down loudly. 

Bobby knocked on the door to announce his presence before slipping into the room, “Buck?” He said, voice gentle as he crouched down by Buck’s head, “Can I join you?” Buck made space for Bobby, so the alpha climbed in, wrapping his arms around the omega and holding him close. 

Buck scented against the alpha, his tears dripping onto Bobby's skin and drying. 

“That’s it kid,” He soothed, “Let it all out, I’ve got you, you’re safe, I’ve got you.” He kept muttering reassurances until Buck fell asleep. 

“So, the brain damage is official.” Athena sighed, looking at May, Hen, Chim and Karen who were all sitting around the lounge, having come around so they could get a health update. 

Bobby was still with Buck as none of them particularly wanted to leave him alone right now, so it was down to Athena to update the adults of the pack plus May. 

“I can’t say I’m surprised.” Hen said, shaking her head sadly, “I mean, his personality has done a full 180, it makes sense that that would be the case.” 

“What did the hospital say? Is there anything that can be done?” Karen asked. 

“Well, they said that most of the damage is to the part of his brain that houses his wolf, the rest of it affects the part that regulates his emotions. They think that with work he’ll be able to recover fairly well, his emotions should stabilise with the help of therapy but his dissociative episodes won’t get better and the chance of his panic and fear response calming down is low as they’re due to the damage to his wolf that will never heal.” 

“Fuck.” Chim huffed, “That’s… that’s fucking- God.” He couldn’t find the words, but then again, none of them really could. 

May sniffled, so Athena encouraged her to come and join her, wrapping her arms around her daughter and letting her scent. 

“What are the chances he’ll work again?” Chimney eventually asked. 

Athena took a deep breath to compose herself, scratching May’s head to ground herself, getting a purr out of the young omega, albite a sad one, “35%” There was a sharp inhale from everyone in the room, “The problems with his fear and panic responses means he might not be able to go back to firefighting.” 

“How’s he taking it?” Karen asked. 

“Not well.” Athena told them, “He was a mess at the hospital, the only reason he’s stopped crying is because he fell asleep. He’s been with Bobby for hours, we can’t leave him alone.” 

“Can I go and see him?” May asked with a teary voice. 

Athena pressed a kiss to the top of her daughter's head, “Yeah, I bet he’d like that.” So May stood and left, heading into Buck’s room. 

When she stepped into the room Buck raised his head and Bobby turned his to look at her. Buck’s face was red and blotchy, stained with tears, “Can I join you?” She asked, voice small. Buck nodded so she came around and climbed into the nest on Buck’s other side, wrapping her arms around him and clinging on like a barnacle. 

“Can you help me with my homework later?" She eventually mumbled. 

Buck sniffled loudly but eventually replied, “Yeah, which subject?” 

“History.” 

“Yeah, I can do history.” 

“Thank’s Buck.” 

Bobby raised his head so he was looking over Buck, able to make eye contact with May, mouthing ‘thank you’ at her. The younger omega gave him a small watery smile that spoke volumes, a clear promise to support the older omega. Besides, May loved spending time with Buck, she’d take any opportunity to hang out with him. 

Eventually Bobby left the omegas alone, letting them have time together. Over the last few months they’d formed a sibling-like bond, and had come to rely heavily on each other. May supported Buck through everything he was handling; the fall out of ‘the incident’ (as it had been dubbed) and what they now knew was brain damage. Whilst Buck helped May through her transition that was slowly coming to an end (even though hers wasn’t as severe as his had been it didn’t mean it was pain free). 

After Michael had moved to Miami, Buck would come over to look after May during her pup heats. Scenting her and holding her close as she cried from the pain of it and making sure she was hydrated and fed. So really, even before he’d moved in and their sibling-like relationship had taken off he’d been something of a mentor for her.

But now, two months after ‘the incident’ the pair had come to rely on each other heavily, May often retreating to Buck’s room when she got home from school so she could sit with him whilst she did her homework, or the two of them curling up in Buck’s nest watching movies and tv shows together. The pair had become inseparable. And the pack couldn’t be happier that the omegas had gotten so close, they clearly needed each other and they made each other’s lives better. 

“Dad told me everything.” May eventually said. 

“Yeah?” 

“Yeah. I’m sorry, it fucking sucks.” 

Buck just hummed and nodded. 

“Wanna watch a movie?” She asked after a beat of silence. 

“Please.” 

“Buck, baby?” Athena gently called out, stepping into Buck’s room to find him lying in his nest, staring off into nothingness with blank eyes. She stepped further into the room, crouching down beside him, “Buck? Are you with me?” He just blinked. Athena brushed a curl out of his face, his hair way over due a hair cut. She brushed a gentle wrist against his neck, trying to pull him out of his head, “Buckaroo?” He finally took a deep, audible breath as he snapped back into his body, “Hi baby, can you get ready so we can leave?” She asked. 

“Where are we going?” He muttered. 

“We’ve got a court hearing today, remember?” 

“Oh, right.” His voice was far off, very little recognition behind his eyes. 

Athena tried to hold back the sad smile, she was usually good at hiding her feelings should she need to, but with Buck nowadays that was impossible, the feelings too all consuming, “Come on, let’s get up and get dressed.” 

He slowly pulled himself out of bed, Athena watching carefully as each move he made was calculated and cautious. She couldn’t stop the sadness that washed over her at the sight of Buck’s gangly limbs, the omega having lost far too much weight, far too quickly, looking like a weak breeze could knock him over, “Your suit is in the closet.” And with that she stepped out to give him space. 

After five minutes Buck stepped into the lounge, tie in hand. Bobby took it from him and began to tie it for him, making sure it looked nice and neat.

“Now, remember,” He said, as he adjusted the knot of Buck’s tie, “When you’re called upon, just tell them the facts to the best of your abilities. Doctor Marlow is scheduled to go up before you so they’ll know all about the brain damage and how it’s affecting you, meaning you can talk as much or as little as you’re able to, in whatever tone you can muster, everyone will understand.” Bobby told him, before helping Buck into his jacket, “You got that, kid?” Buck nodded. 

After a few more minutes May appeared in the lounge, she’d insisted on getting the day off of school so she could come to the hearing, Athena hadn’t taken much convincing as she knew it would be good for both omegas; Buck having the emotional support, whilst May wouldn’t have been able to focus at school if she wasn’t there. 

“You look nice.” Buck said, voice weak but genuine when he saw May in her smart, navy dress, hair tied back neatly. 

She beamed at him, “Thanks, so do you.” Buck smiled back at her. 

Eventually they all left, climbing into the car and driving to the court. 

Buck hated this, he really hated this. Not only was he going to have to face his old housemates but the place would be crawling with media. 

When it had first happened there hadn’t been much of a media presence, but an omega rights group had found out about it and all of a sudden it had taken off. Buck wasn’t a fan for quite a few reasons but the big two were that he didn’t want all of the attention, and the fact that the omega rights group who had blown it up was primarily made up of alphas who, granted, had good intentions, but still viewed omegas as weak little things who couldn’t fight for themselves, to the point they were patronising about it. 

He’d read some of the articles and blog posts the group had put up, talking about the ‘poor omega’ who had been ‘unknowingly taken advantage of’, and he hated it, hated how they made him look. He just wanted to be left alone, he wanted this to be a lowkey case where he could get up, say his piece and then go home. But instead the LAFD had been getting interview requests ever since he woke up from the coma, all of which Bobby had turned down on his behalf so he didn’t have to deal with that shit show himself. 

But when the car pulled up there were media all waiting outside, trying to get photos of the ‘poor, traumatised omega’. Thankfully security cleared a path for them, so Buck kept his head down and just walked. 

Buck sat as witnesses were called up and interrogated, watched as Doctor Marlow explained the medical impact, listened as Athena and Rick spoke about the arrest and the interrogations. 

And then it was his turn, he was called to the stand. 

He walked slowly, doing his best to keep his head down, but the flashes of the cameras filled the room, unable to let him be invisible. 

He took to the stand and was sworn in and then the grilling began. 

“So, Mr Buckley, how did you meet the accused?” 

“We met in Peru.” He replied, voice soft. 

“And you knew them well?” 

“Not really.” 

“But you moved in with them anyway?”

“Yes.”

Buck’s answers were concise, the omega unable to find the words. But it was obvious the lawyer was trying to get him to slip up, say anything that could make it his fault. But he gave them so little to work with, on top of him being the victim that made it impossible for him to put any of it on Buck. 

But throughout the questioning, he couldn’t stop himself from glancing over at his old housemates, an amalgamation of feelings on their faces. 

Connor looked visibly guilty, Jude looked a little… sad? But Buck knew that was down to the fact that he’d lost his comfort omega. Marcus looked indifferent, whilst Jordan looked smug as anything, clearly reveling in what he’d reduced Buck to, not caring about the consequences. 

And then the tables flipped, only for the other lawyer to be patronising, asking questions that made him sound like a weak little omega, the kind that led everyone to believe he wasn’t one. 

“You had no way to stop how they were treating you? Did you?” 

“Uh, no.” 

“You were trapped, left with no choice but to submit.” 

“Yes.” 

“And you’re now paying the price? Having to deal with brain damage that has altered your life.” 

“Yeah.” 

“Can you tell us about how that’s impacted your day to day life?” 

“Uh…” Buck didn’t want to go down this route, “I… I’m stuck.” Was all he managed to say. 

The lawyer, whose name he couldn’t remember, looked at him expectantly, hoping for more, eventually attempting to prompt a more detailed answer out of him, “Stuck how?” 

“In my head, in my nest, just stuck.” 

“Okay.” Clearly the lawyer was after more from him but he physically couldn’t do that. 

Buck looked over at May, Bobby and Athena, but it was May who really caught his eye, the look she was giving him told him exactly what to say, “Ask my sister.” He pointed towards her. 

It took a while but eventually May ended up on the stand, sworn in, “So, Ms. Grant, you know Mr Buckley well?” 

“Yes.” She replied, “We’re the only omegas in the pack.” She then looked at Buck, giving him a soft smile, “But he’s my brother, in all but blood.” 

“So it’s safe to say you’re extremely familiar with the changes the prolonged Alpha Sleep caused.” 

“Yes, I am.” 

“Can you tell the court about the changes Mr Buckley has undergone.” 

“Before the coma Evan was bubbly and lively, he was like a golden retriever, he was full of energy and light and love. He’s the best person I’ve ever met, I want to be just like him. He’s the epitome of what it means to be a good person.” She explained, a soft smile on her face. “But now,” Her eyes began to get teary almost immediately, so she wiped her eyes, “I love him so much, and it’s so hard to see what’s happened to him. Half the time he’s not really here, his mind is somewhere else, just staring off into nothing, like he doesn’t know who he is or where he is. The rest of the time he’s stuck in this depressive fog, unable to get more than a few words out at once. He’s stuck and it breaks my heart, it’s so hard to watch.

“It’s like he’s permanently stuck in his head, just trapped.” She then looked over at the alphas on trial, “They took everything from him, locking him in his head and stripping him of his life. They extinguished his light.” She wiped her eyes again as tears began to fall, mascara already beginning to streak her face. “He can’t even work right now, and he lives for his job, but he can’t do it, and we don’t know if he’ll ever be able to do it again.” 

“So it’s safe to say the actions of these alphas have had a significant impact on his life?”

“That’s an understatement. It’s completely uprooted his life and changed it for the worse.” She then turned to the judge, “Your Honour, Evan has saved so many lives, but they’ve stripped him of his. It’s not fair.” She’d finally gotten to the point she couldn’t keep her composure, breaking down in sobs, “It’s not fair, it’s not fucking fair.” 

After a few more questions May was dismissed, so she stood and rushed over to Buck, holding onto him with a death grip, the older omega reciprocating the action, the both of them finding comfort in it, “Thank you.” Buck eventually whispered into her hair. 

The trial was long and arduous but eventually all of the alphas were sentenced; Connor, Jude and Marcus got five years, landing themselves the minimum, whilst Jordan got ten, being the ring leader and the one who actually initiated the Alpha Sleep landing him with an extra five years. 

It was a massive victory but Buck couldn’t find it in himself to be happy or relieved or anything, because although they’d been convicted that didn’t change what had happened to him, he was still stuck like this, damaged. 

Another three months passed by in the blink of an eye. Buck wasn’t much better, but at least he was eating a bit more frequently, having at least one meal a day. Which, whilst still not ideal, was far better than how he’d been just after he’d woken up. 

So, small victories and all that. 

But with each month that passed Bobby became more and more aware that the chances of Buck coming back were dwindling, the doctors stood by their 35% estimation but Bobby saw what he was like at home, saw the lack of improvement in his vacant eyes and single word answers. Deep down he knew Buck wasn’t coming back from this, but he still forced himself to hold onto hope. Just in case they made a breakthrough.

“I should probably let you know.” Bobby began, walking beside Eddie, the new alpha probie, as they headed to their cars, “You’ve heard us mention our pack’s omega, Buck, right?” 

“Yeah.” 

“Well, he lives with me and Athena so he’ll be there tonight, but you need to be patient with him, he’s not the best around unfamiliar alphas anymore so if he’s a bit flighty around you it’s nothing personal, but if he does settle it’s hard to say what emotional state he’ll be in. So however he acts it’s not on you, there was… there was an incident about six months ago that he’s still recovering from. You may have actually heard of it, he’s the omega from The Alpha Sleep case.” 

Eddie’s face dropped, “Oh, wow, yeah, no wonder he struggles. I think the news said he had brain damage, right?” 

Bobby nodded, “Yeah, it’s mild but it’s still been a big struggle. Recovery is slow, and hard, so we just take each day as they come.” 

“Of course.” 

“He’s lovely though, once he settles, he’s an extremely sweet young man, just give him time.” 

Eddie went and picked Chris up from school on his way to the Grant-Nash house. 

“So, Chris, my Captain, Bobby, spoke to me about this, and it’s very important that you know it too.” He began, glancing at his son in the rear view mirror, “They have an omega in their pack who isn’t very well, his brain got hurt a little while ago and it can make him act a bit different from the rest of us, okay? He might not be very social or want to come near us, so we need to respect that. But if he does come near us his emotions might be different from ours, or not appropriate for the situation we’re in. We just need to respect that and be nice to him, yeah?” 

“Yeah.” Chris replied, giving his Dad a big smile. 

“There’s no need to be nervous though, just be your usual, lovely self and it will all be great. There’s also another pup in the pack who’s the same age as you, his name is Denny and then there’s May who’s quite a bit older than you. They’re a really lovely pack though, so it’s going to be great fun.” 

It didn’t take them much longer to arrive, Eddie pulling into the large driveway that was already packed with cars. 

They both climbed out of Eddie’s truck and walked to the front door, Eddie ringing the bell. 

Athena answered the door, smiling at both of them, “Hi Eddie.” She gave him a hug, “And you must be Chris, I’m Athena, one of the pack alphas, it’s so lovely to meet you.” 

“It’s nice to meet you too.” Chris said, beaming up at the alpha who then pulled him into a hug as well. 

“Come on in.” She then led them through to the lounge that was full of the pack, Eddie and Chris the last to arrive due to the school being a little more out of the way than the ones the other pups went to. 

Athena then introduced everyone, some people because Eddie hadn’t met them yet, the rest for Chris. 

“Buck’s in his room right now as we’ve had a difficult morning.” Athena told them, “But he might come out later.” 

“Hey, if he’s not up to it, he’s not up to it.” Eddie gave her a gentle smile, “I’m sure we’ll get to meet him eventually. Does he ever come by the firehouse?” 

Everyone shared a look but it was Bobby who spoke, “He was the probie before you.” 

“Oh, I didn’t know that part.” Eddie frowned, “Did he finish his probationary year?”

“He’d been a fully fledged firefighter for only a few months.” Hen told him with a sigh. 

“Is he going to come back?”  

Yet another look was shared around the room. Again it was Bobby who spoke, “Unlikely.” 

“Why don’t you kids go and play?” Hen said, ushering the pups away and into the garden other than May, who was with Buck in his room. 

“Eddie, would you like a drink?” Athena offered. 

“Yeah, a beer would be great.” A bottle of beer was swiftly grabbed and handed over to him before everyone sat, settling down. 

If this was just anyone the pack wouldn’t reveal this much information but they already felt a strong connection with Eddie, even though it had only been a month, and wanted to see if he would fit the pack’s dynamic, hoping to invite him to join should it go well. But that meant he should have all of the information, so he could make an informed decision if they asked. 

“There’s only a 35% chance he’ll ever recover enough to resume his work as a firefighter.” Bobby explained. 

Eddie’s face fell at that, “Oh god, he must be taking that pretty hard.” 

“When he’s present enough he does. But half the time-” Athena looked off to Buck’s bedroom, “Half the time he’s not really here.” 

“But he does better when May’s with him.” Hen said, finally speaking up, “The two of them love spending time together, even before the incident, so when they hang out Buck’s more likely to have a good day.” 

“She usually goes to his room to do her homework.” Athena chuckled, “She’ll take any opportunity to spend time with him.” 

“You’d think they’d been siblings their whole lives the way they act together.” Bobby smiled, “But they’ve only known each other for just over a year and a half.” 

“How is he with Harry?” 

“They got on well before, but as he lives with his Mom in Miami they haven’t seen each other since the incident, so we don’t know.” Athena explained. 

“I think it helps that he and May are both omegas.” Bobby added, “They’ve got common ground in that sense.” 

Athena couldn’t stop herself from laughing, “The other day May combined their nests, it was one of Buck’s better days so they were actually able to hang out as he was very present and lucid, it was lovely to see. But I don’t think they got very far into the movie they were watching as when I went to check on them they were curled up, fast asleep, both of them purring, it was adorable.” Athena pulled her phone out, “I couldn’t not get a picture.” She turned it towards Eddie, showing him a picture of a young man and a teenage girl hugging each other, tucked up in a nest, their legs buried in it, the both of them looking extremely relaxed.

Eddie couldn’t stop himself from beaming at it, “That’s so sweet. One of my sisters is an omega and we used to do the same when she wasn’t feeling very well.” But seeing the two of them sparked a thought in Eddie’s mind, “Can I ask, and if it’s inappropriate please just say, but what actually happened?” Eddie asked, knowing that it wasn’t going to be just like the news told it. 

Again, as they wanted to see if Eddie should join the pack they knew it was best to tell him everything, so the group delved into an explanation of what had happened, not the sensationalised version the media was telling but the real version, with all the gritty details. 

Once they were finished Eddie looked horrified, “They’d do that? Seriously? That’s terrible. And he just… lived like that?” 

“For a year and a half.” Chimney confirmed, “If we’d known the full extent we would’ve stepped in sooner but we just thought he was tired. Turns out we were seriously wrong.” 

It was once Bobby stepped away to begin on dinner that a tall, gangly omega stepped into the room, who Eddie could only assume was Buck. 

“Hello baby.” Athena beamed, “How are you feeling?” 

He shrugged before walking over to the couches and sitting with Athena, arms wrapped around her, “Well, we’d like you to meet Eddie.” Athena said, indicating the alpha in question  who was sitting opposite them, “Eddie, this is Buck.”

“It’s nice to meet you.” Eddie said with a soft smile. Buck sent him a nod of acknowledgment but he didn’t appear scared of Eddie, which was a very good sign. 

“Eddie has a son, his name’s Chris, he’s playing outside with Denny.” Athena explained. 

A small smile came over Buck’s face, “Cool, how old?” 

“He’s seven.” Eddie smiled back at him. He was pretty sure this was a good sign, Buck was actively engaging with him even though he’d had a difficult morning (Eddie wasn’t actually sure what was meant by ‘difficult morning’, so he wasn’t actually sure how normal this behaviour was, but from what he’d heard so far he assumed this was a good sign). “Do you want to see a picture? I’m not sure how long he’s going to be out there for.” 

“Yes please.” 

Eddie stood and approached Buck, keeping his pace steady so he didn’t spook the fragile omega, he then handed his phone over which Buck took in a shaky, boney hand, “He’s adorable. I love kids.” 

Based on the shocked smiles on everyone’s faces Eddie assumed this was very out of character for Buck, “I love this kid.” Eddie replied. 

“Where’s your sister?” Athena asked, placing a kiss on the side of Buck’s head. Over the last few months, since the trial, everyone had started referring to Buck and May as siblings. With how their relationship had evolved it just made sense, there was no point denying the truth. So using ‘brother’ and ‘sister’ for the omegas had become second nature to the pack.

“Having a nap in my room. But I heard voices and wanted to come and say hello.” 

“Well, you’re looking much better than you were this morning.” Bobby complimented, remembering how pale and vacant Buck had looked that morning before he left for work, the omega just staring off at nothing as he lay in bed, the only signs of life being the rise and fall of his chest and the occasional blink. 

“Are you back in your head Buckaroo?” Hen asked, getting a nod out of the omega, “And you’re feeling?” Buck nodded again, “Any feelings in particular swirling around in that head of yours?” 

“Sad… curious… frustrated.” 

“About anything in particular, or just in general?” Athena probed. 

“Sad because I’m always sad. Curious because I heard new voices. Frustrated because I’m not well.” He rattled off. 

Eddie felt like his heart was breaking as he listened to Buck speak in careful and measured words that clearly took some effort to find. But he’d only just met this omega, hardly had a conversation with him but he already wanted to protect him with everything he had, wrap him up in his arms and never let go whilst scenting him and reassuring him that everything would be okay, that he’d never let anyone hurt him ever again. He wanted to sit on his other side so he was flanked by protection from him and Athena. But he couldn’t do any of that because that would be weird, even if he did feel a pull towards the omega, like magnets drawing them together. 

“Have you got any plans for tonight?” Chim asked, “Coming to hang with us or do your own thing?” 

“Me and May are gonna combine the nests again and watch a movie.” 

“Have you already chosen one?” Athena looked down at the man she saw as a son. 

Buck pulled a guilty face before saying, “You don’t want to know.” 

“Buuuuck?” He mumbled something under his breath, no one able to make out what he was saying, “Let’s try that again shall we?” Athena jokingly scolded, “What movie are you and May watching?” 

“Terrifier?” 

“Seriously Buck?” Chim tutted, although there was no weight behind it, “You want to show May an unrated slasher?” 

“It was her idea!” Buck protested in a weak voice. 

“Well, be prepared for blood, guts and gore because that film is insane, they literally cut a woman-” 

“Let’s not.” Karen cringed, “Some of us have weak stomachs and would rather not be put off of our dinner.” 

Buck didn’t stay for much longer, heading back to his room after fifteen minutes, tired out by the social interactions. 

As soon as he was gone everyone turned to Eddie in shock, “What?” He asked, not knowing what was going on. 

“He hasn’t been that actively engaged and conversational since the incident.” Hen said. 

“He also hasn’t been that playful, th-that’s amazing.” Chimney added, “Thena, has he been like that at home at all?” 

“No, not at all. How did you do that?” 

“I- I don’t know? I don’t think I did anything.” Eddie stammered. 

Chapter Text

Neither Buck nor May made it through the film, the both of them falling asleep pretty early on, Buck because, well, that was his life now, and May because she’d had a busy week at school. Somehow the two of them managed to snooze peacefully even as screams came from May’s laptop. 

Buck’s body was curled around May’s, protectively, whilst the younger omega nuzzled at her big brother’s neck in her sleep. 

It was a common sight to see, the pair slotting together perfectly, and everyone who saw it found it adorable. The two of them looking like they’d been siblings their whole lives. May had even made a habit of seeing Buck twice a day without fail, coming into his room to say good morning before rushing off to school, and then going to see him to say hello when she got home. Although the latter usually happened when she was coming in to sit with him whilst she did her homework, but if she had friends over she still made sure she went to see him. 

So when Athena slipped into Buck’s room to let them know dinner was ready she wasn’t surprised to see them fast asleep. So she took the laptop off of the bed and closed it, putting it to one side, gave them both a kiss on the cheek and then left. She’d put some food aside for them in the fridge so they could eat later, as she didn’t want to disturb their nap. 

“Are they not joining us?” Hen asked when Athena reappeared without two sleepy omegas in tow. 

“They’re fast asleep.” She chuckled, “I don’t want to disturb them.” 

“I don’t get to meet Buck?” Chris asked, looking downcast. 

“Not today bud, sorry.” Eddie said, ruffling his son's hair, “He already came out but got tired and had to go to bed before I had time to come and get you.” That wasn’t exactly true, he would’ve had time to grab Chris but from what he’d gathered about Buck he decided it was probably best not to overwhelm him with an over excited pup. 

“But you can come around again, maybe when there are less people here so he’ll have a bit more energy.” Athena offered, “How does that sound?” Although she knew Buck would love to meet Chris and it was only fair that the pup met the omega, there was a selfish element to the offer, she wanted to get Eddie around Buck and see if he became more responsive again. 

“Dad, can we?” Chris asked, practically vibrating with excitement.

“Of course mijo, I’ll talk to Bobby and Athena later so we can arrange a meet up.” 

“Thank you!” 

After dinner Bobby, Athena and Eddie had a chat and decided that the following weekend the younger alpha and his pup should come around so Chris could meet Buck and May, who were still fast asleep. If Athena had to guess she’d think Buck was so deeply asleep that he was subconsciously giving off sleepy omega pheromones, and as May hadn’t fully finished presenting she was still picking up on them, the pheromones used to help pups sleep. 

So with that arranged people began to head home for the night, Bobby and Athena saying their goodbyes as the house emptied. 

“Well, that was interesting.” Athena said once it was just them in the kitchen, beginning to clean up. 

Bobby knew exactly what she was talking about, “Yes, very.” 

“I hope it’s not a fluke, because if it’s not this could be a massive breakthrough.” 

“And even without that he meshes well with the pack, don’t you think?” 

“Let’s see how Buck and Chris interact next weekend, if it goes well we’ll make an offer.” 

“What’s Buck like?” Chris asked as his Dad drove them home. 

Eddie couldn’t stop the small smile that came over his face at the mention of the omega, “He’s very sweet. Quiet but very lovely and silly. I think you’re really going to like him.” 

“Yeah, I think so too.” Chris decided, a smile of his own with a very direct nod. 

“Oh yeah, and how do you know that?”

“Because you like him!” Eddie couldn’t help but chuckle at that. 

Bobby knocked on Buck’s door the next morning and slipped into the room to find him and May still asleep in the nest, a clear mix of both of their things surrounding them; he spotted an old LAFD top of his that he knew lived in Buck’s nest, whilst there was also a teddy bear that had been Harry’s when he was very little that was from May’s. Quiet purrs filled the room, the kind of harmony only omega siblings could make bringing a smile to his face. 

Bobby reached into the nest and woke both omegas up. 

Following a recent discussion new nest boundaries had been set, mainly that May, Bobby and Athena didn’t need to ask for permission to enter Buck’s, whilst Buck didn’t need permission to enter May’s. 

So Bobby was able to wake them up easily, not having to worry about keeping clear of Buck’s nest. 

“Hey sleepy heads.” He greeted as soon as both omegas were awake, “Breakfast is ready. I bet you’re hungry after missing dinner last night.” 

“Yeah, I’m famished.” May yawned, slipping off of the bed, but Buck just mumbled out a “Not hungry” before burying himself further into the nest. 

“Buck? Please join us for breakfast.” Bobby said, sitting on the edge of the bed so he could run a hand through Buck’s hair. 

“No.” He grumbled, like a petulant young pup. If Bobby wasn’t so worried about him he’d find it adorable. 

“Even just for five minutes? Have a little nibble of something and then you can come back in here and rest.” Bobby offered, hoping Buck would take the compromise. 

“No.” He huffed again. 

Bobby briefly turned to May, “Do you mind giving us a minute?” He asked, getting a nod out of his step-daughter, who then left to get some food, “Buck, come on kid, please.” 

“No.” 

“You made such good progress last night, can we keep trying?”

“Tired.” 

“I know you are, but you’re not going to get better hiding away in here all day.” Bobby reminded him. 

“Don’t care.” 

Bobby huffed out a sigh, “I love you kid, I really do, but right now you’re making your life hell, and it’s really hard to watch.”

“I’ve got brain damage, fuck off.” Buck snapped, the most energy Bobby had heard from him in a while. 

“I know that, that’s even more reason to get out of your nest, because you can get better if you put the work in.” 

“I can’t be a firefighter anymore so what’s the point? That’s all I had, I was the omega firefighter who was in the top five of his class, I was good, I was really fucking good, and now I’m nothing. Just some weak, pathetic omega who can’t do anything. Just put me back in Alpha Sleep and leave me here to die.” What had started as low energy anger had slowly become a whine, the heartbreaking sound filling the room. 

Bobby climbed all the way into Buck’s nest, pulling him into his arms, “You’re not nothing kid, you’ve got a life waiting for you on the other side of that door, all you have to do is step out.” 

“And do what? I don’t know who I am without firefighting.” Buck sniffled, tears beginning to silently run down his face. 

“Hey, hey, there’s still a chance you’ll be a firefighter again, we just need to work for it.” Bobby reminded him, but it only made Buck cry harder. “Oh, kid, that’s it, let it out, I’ve got you, it’s okay, I’ve got you.” He soothed, rubbing a wrist against his neck. 

In the end Bobby wasn’t able to get Buck to leave his room or eat anything, the alpha having to admit defeat, because even like this Buck was still stubborn as all hell and nigh on impossible to sway once he had an idea in his head. 

The week continued like that, Buck refusing to leave his nest, his eating getting worse again. 

“What happened?” Athena asked, “He wasn’t doing well but he was doing marginally better, and now it’s like we’re back to where he was after he woke from the coma.” 

Bobby huffed, “There’s a new firefighter on the block.” 

Athena ran her hands down her face, “So is he good for him or not?” 

“I don’t know anymore. We’ll just have to see how this weekend goes and take it from there.” 

The rest of the week was pretty much the same; Buck refusing to leave his nest or eat, making it feel like they were back to square one.

And then, on Saturday morning, the doorbell went. 

“Eddie, Chris, hey.” Bobby greeted them as he let them in. 

“Where’s Buck?” Chris immediately asked as he walked into the lounge making Bobby laugh. 

“He’s in his room, I’ll go and get him. Make yourselves at home.” 

Bobby walked down the corridor to Buck’s room, knocking on the door before poking his head in, “Eddie and Chris are here.” 

Before he’d even finished saying Eddie’s name, Buck's head popped up out of the nest, “Eddie?” 

Bobby couldn’t help but chuckle, “Yeah, wanna come say hello?” 

Buck tumbled out of his nest, following Bobby into the lounge to see Eddie sat on the couch with a young pup and Athena. 

“Buck, hey.” Eddie greeted, standing. 

Buck immediately wrapped his long, gangly arms around him, holding on tightly as he scented against Eddie’s neck, the alpha reciprocating without even thinking about it. 

Bobby and Athena shared a look, this was only Buck and Eddie’s second time meeting each other and they were already scenting, that was practically unheard of. 

Eventually the pair separated, but before anyone could introduce Chris the kid was introducing himself, “I’m Chris.” He declared, sticking a hand out, only for Buck to crouch down and pull him into a hug as well. 

“Hi Chris, I’m Buck.” He replied. The pup followed his Dad’s lead and scented Buck, the omega reciprocating without hesitation. Although it was very common for omegas to scent pups sooner into meeting them than adults, it still wasn’t usually on the very first meeting. 

“I wish we could introduce you to May, but she’s had a last minute disaster to run damage control on.” Athena told them.

Eddie frowned at that, taking his seat again, everyone else following suit, “Oh, is everyone okay?” 

“Oh yeah, everyone is fine, a friend of hers is having boy drama and it all got a bit messy. She said she really wanted to meet you but she’s the only omega in her friendship group and she takes that responsibility extremely seriously, meaning it’s her job to go and offer comfort, something she can and will drop everything to do.” 

“You must be really proud.” Eddie said with a soft smile. 

“We are.” Athena replied, “But she learnt from the best. My ex-mate taught her everything he knew before he moved to Miami to be with his now husband, and then Buck took over. Didn’t you baby?” Buck had sat between Bobby and Athena, giving a small nod.

“I didn’t know you could have an ex-mate.” Chris chirped. 

“We’re still bonded,” Athena explained, “That’s something you can’t undo, but it turns out Michael only likes men. But we’re still very good friends, and our youngest pup, Harry, lives with him so we talk a lot. We do breakfast over video call every other week.” 

“Is that what happened to you and Mum?” Chris asked innocently. 

“Uh, no, no, your Mum was a beta so we couldn’t be mated.” 

Buck’s face fell, “You have a wife?” 

“No, we were divorced but she passed a year ago.” Eddie told him. 

“Oh, I’m sorry.” 

Eddie gave him a small smile, “Thanks.” 

“Buck, baby.” Athena began, turning her attention to the omega, “If I bring out some cookies do you think you can try and eat some for me?” Buck shook his head, “Just one? For me?” 

“Okay.” He muttered.

“Thank you.” She gave him a kiss on the top of the head, “Can I stand please?” Buck untangled himself from her and moved over to Bobby, letting Athena stand so she could go into the kitchen, “Eddie, would you like a coffee?” 

“Uh, if other people are then that would be great.” 

“Alright, I won’t be a minute.” 

“So Chris,” Buck said, Bobby tried to hide the look of surprise at Buck starting a conversation, “Have you got a favourite subject at school?” 

“I really like history.” 

“Yeah? What’s your favourite topic?” Bobby was failing miserably at hiding the shock. 

“Mmm…” Chris had to think hard, he liked too many topics to pick just one, “I like the Ancient Greeks, but we don’t do those at school. At school though, I liked learning about Amelia Airheart.” 

“Those are both really cool. I like the Greeks too, who’s your favourite God?”

Again, Chris had to think hard, there were too many he liked, “Aphrodite.” He eventually decided on, “I like that her thing is love, I think that’s nice.”

“Yeah, that’s a good choice. I like Athena, she’s pretty badass.” 

Chris nodded at that, looking very serious, “She is.” He then turned to his Dad, “Do you have a favourite Greek God?” 

“Oo… I’m not sure, I think Zeus is pretty cool with his lightning bolts, way better than Poseidon's big fork.” 

“It’s a trident.” Buck and Chris said at the exact same time, making everybody chuckle. 

“You know what,” Bobby said, “I’m going to see if Athena needs an extra set of hands in the kitchen.” And with that he stood.

“Bobby?” Athena hadn’t expected him to join her. 

“You would not believe what is going on out there, not only is Buck talking he actively started the conversation unprompted. A completely new topic, all by himself.” He told her, voice a low whisper so none of the boys in the lounge heard them. 

“What? Are you serious?” 

Bobby nodded, “It’s amazing.” He couldn’t stop himself from grinning, “He’s nowhere near where he was at before the incident but this is the best he’s been since the coma.” 

“Help me with these coffees, I want to see for myself.” Athena took two of the mugs, Bobby took the third and the plate of cookies. 

Bobby put the plate down whilst Athena handed one of the mugs to Eddie, the elder alphas then sitting down on either side of Buck, “Remember, at least one cookie.” Athena told the omega, watching as he then reached out and took one, she then turned to Eddie and Chris, “Help yourself, there are plenty more in the kitchen.” 

“We were just discussing Greek Gods.” Eddie said, “Have you guys got a preference?” 

Athena gave him an affectionate glare,”I’ll give you one guess.” 

“Is it Hades?” Buck asked with a cheeky grin. 

Athena’s eyes sparkled with laughter, “Oh Buckaroo, what are we going to do with you?” 

“Don’t worry, my favourite is Athena too.” 

“Correct answer.” Athena joked, scrunching up her nose. 

“Bobby?” Buck prompted. 

“You know, I’ve never really thought about it. Can I say Neptune?” 

“He’s a Roman God,” Chris told him, all matter of fact.

“His Greek counterpart is Poseidon." Buck told him in a stage whisper. 

“Ah, yes, I was just testing your knowledge.” He blatantly lied. 

“Sure think Pops.” Buck scoffed, rolling his eyes before letting out a massive yawn. But instead of excusing himself to his room like he usually would, he just shuffled around until he was lying down with his head in Athena’s lap and his feet in Bobby’s. 

Bobby and Athena shared a look, the shock evident on their faces. 

“Eddie, could you pass that blanket please.” Bobby asked, pointing at a basket next to where Eddie was sitting, he reached down and grabbed it before passing it over to Bobby who then draped it over Buck. 

Athena then began to scratch Buck’s scalp, immediately getting a loud purr out of Buck. 

Chris had a look of awe on his face as he watched the omega sleep, “Chris, close your mouth please.” Eddie said, voice gentle. 

“But he can purr, Dad!” He whisper-screamed. 

Eddie smiled at his son, “Yeah bud, omegas can purr, remember?” 

“Yeah, but I’ve never seen it in person!” He replied. 

Bobby chuckled, “Well, Buck is quite the purrer, the slightest thing sets him off. We all love it.” As he spoke Bobby began to lightly rub his wrist gland over one of Buck’s ankle glands, the omega relaxing even more, his purr becoming even louder. 

“That’s so cool!” 

“You should hear when he and May purr together, it’s like music.” Athena said, with a smile as she thought about her daughter and the man she cared for like he was her son. 

The alphas and Chris chatted for ages, Buck purring peacefully as he slept, but eventually Chris began to get restless. 

Thankfully that was the same time as May got home, “Hey Sweetie.” Athena greeted, “How did it all go?” 

“She’s an alpha, he’s an alpha, you know how it goes.” She shrugged. 

“But it’s all sorted now?” Bobby asked.

“Eh, I wouldn’t say sorted, but a disaster was definitely averted.” 

“That’s good.” Athena smiled, before turning to Eddie and Chris, “Eddie, Chris, this is my daughter May, May this is Eddie and Chris.” 

“It’s lovely to meet you.” She said, shaking both of their hands.

“Likewise.” Eddie said with a smile, “We’ve been hearing lots about you.” 

“If it’s embarrassing then it’s a lie.” She cringed. 

Eddie chuckled, “Don’t worry, they didn’t say anything too bad.” 

After saying a proper hello to Chris, May spotted Buck, her mouth dropping open, “How long’s he been out here for?” She asked. 

“Three and a half hours.” Bobby told her. 

“Holy shiii-taki mushrooms.” 

“Nice save.” Bobby chuckled, whilst May turned to Eddie saying, “Sorry.”

There was a bit more chatting now that May had joined them but her omega instincts kicked in rather quickly, “Hey, Chris, wanna leave these old farts and go play some video games?” 

“Yes please!” 

“Alright, I’ve got a tv and console in my room, come on.” She led him off, ready to keep the kid entertained so the adults could keep chatting. 

Eddie smiled, looking in the direction May and Chris had just disappeared down, “You were right, she is a good egg.” 

“We did our best.” Athena told him, a sparkle of pride in her eyes. 

“If Chris presents as an omega and is half as good as she is,” He shook his head with a smile, “I sure would be proud.” 

Athena couldn’t help but blush, “Thank you.” 

At that moment, with a big yawn, Buck woke up, groggy, sleep hazy eyes blinking open. 

“Where’s Chris?” He asked, as soon as he’d processed the couch opposite him. 

“May got home so they’ve gone to play video games.” Bobby explained. 

“After calling us all ‘old farts’.” Athena jokingly scoffed. 

Buck didn’t reply to that, instead standing as he wrapped his blanket around himself and moved over to the couch Eddie was on and curling up next to him, nuzzling at his neck. 

Before Bobby or Athena could ask if he was comfortable with Buck acting like that Eddie began to reciprocate, rubbing his cheek on the top of Buck’s head, the omega purring loudly, louder than Bobby and Athena had ever heard it before. 

The young alpha and omega got lost in their own little world, so Bobby and Athena looked over at each other, the former mouthing ‘what the fuck’ before the latter just shrugged. 

They couldn’t believe how big a change Buck had had as soon as Eddie had appeared, it was like there was a completely different omega in front of them. 

After a minute Eddie whispered, “Do you want a cookie?” 

“Yes please.” Buck muttered. 

Eddie briefly pulled away, getting a loud whine out of Buck, so he could grab a cookie, immediately resuming his previous position, handing Buck the sweet treat. The omega began to happily munch on it, not a hint of his recent lack of appetite or food aversion in sight. 

“What the hell is happening?” Athena whispered, scooting closer to Bobby.

“I don’t know.” Bobby didn’t take his eyes off of the pair on the other couch, “But whatever it is, it’s good.” 

It didn’t take long for Buck to fall asleep again, purring away as Eddie continued to scent him and scratch his scalp, the alpha not stopping even after the omega had fallen asleep. It was like Eddie knew all of the right buttons to push to help the omega relax into a comfortable sleep, it was such a sweet sight to see. 

But eventually it was time for Chris and Eddie to go home.

Eddie had to wake Buck up so he could say goodbye and get out from under the omega, but Buck looked devastated, a low whine coming out of him. Eddie rested his forehead against Buck’s, a hand cupping his cheek, thumb stroking back and forth, “Hey, I’ll be back, don’t worry.” He told him, voice barely above a whisper, the statement clearly just for the two of them. 

“Please.” Buck whined, the sound desperate and wanting. 

“I know baby, but I need to get Chris home.” Eddie muttered, the pair of them in their own little world. 

“But you’ll be back?” Buck asked, sounding desperate. 

“Of course. You just need to be a little bit patient for me, okay?” 

“Okay.” 

“Good omega.” Eddie placed a gentle kiss on Buck’s forehead and then he stepped away, letting Chris say goodbye to Buck and then the two of them were out of the house and on their way home. 

As soon as the door closed Buck deflated, his shoulders sagging before he slunk back off to his room. 

As soon as the door was closed May turned to the alphas, “We all saw that, right?” 

The next day Buck was back to his new normal, laying in bed and staring off into nothing, shutting the world out and refusing to eat. 

But Bobby and Athena were pretty certain they had a good idea of what was going on. 

“So being around Eddie helps him feel better, but then being apart causes him to crash.” Bobby said, sitting on the couch with Athena whilst May and Buck were in the older omegas bedroom, relaxing. 

“And clearly Eddie is responding to something, because he goes all soft around Buck.” Athena added. 

Bobby nodded, “I mean, I don’t think it’s too far-fetched to assume their pheromones are perfectly matched, they’re perfectly in sync.” 

“Which means we’re obviously inviting Eddie to join the pack. He meshes well with the others and clearly he and Buck are extremely good for each other.” 

“It also helps his childcare situation.” Bobby pointed out. 

“So really it’s a win all round.” 

Eddie was invited over on Monday whilst Chris was at school, he was barely over the threshold when Buck appeared from his room, “Eddie?” 

“I said I’d be back.” He told him with a grin, moving over to Buck as fast as possible without actually running, sweeping the omega up in his arms, the pair scenting against each other. 

“Missed you.” Buck mumbled, his mood having done a full 180 now that the younger alpha was there. Just five minutes ago Buck had been lying in bed, staring off into nothing with vacant eyes, clearly drowning in a dissociative episode and now he was grinning, scenting against Eddie as a happy little purr rumbled out of him. 

“Eddie, do you want to have a seat?” Bobby offered as he and Athena sat on one of the couches. Eddie sat, keeping Buck as close to him as possible. 

“Now Eddie, I’m sure you’ve noticed we’ve been slowly bringing you into the pack.” Athena said, “And please, take your time to think about it, we don’t need an answer straight away, and if you say no that won’t change a thing, you can still come over as we know this is a very personal thing. But we’d like to offer you a spot in our pack, aga-”

“Yes.” Eddie said, not waiting for Athena to finish her sentence, “Yes, I’d really like that.” 

Bobby and Athena smiled at each other before turning back to Eddie who practically had Buck in his lap now as the two of them scented against each other even more aggressively than before. 

“In that case, welcome to the pack Eddie.” Bobby chuckled, not bothering with the usual handshake, happy to let the alpha and omega get lost in each other. 

Once all of the logistics had been discussed (including what the pack could do to assist with childcare as they had multiple systems in place for Denny, May and Harry, it was easy to add Chris to that, especially as he was the same age as Denny) Buck dragged Eddie off to his nest, not wanting to leave the new pack members side just yet. 

“That was… amazing.” Bobby eventually said, not taking his eyes off of Buck’s bedroom door just yet. 

“I know, I can’t believe it. I’ve also never seen an alpha and omega act like that after only two meetings.” 

“Should we see if Eddie is able to bring some things around for Buck to put in his nest, it might help him when they’re not together?” Bobby suggested. 

Athena nodded, “Yes, I think that’s a very good idea.”

“You have a very nice nest.” Eddie complemented, once he and Buck were comfortably curled up together. 

“Thank you.” Buck mumbled, his face squished into Eddie’s neck, already half asleep, getting a light chuckle out of Eddie. 

“Buck?” Eddie said after a few minutes of silence. Buck let out a small hum to confirm he was awake and listening, “I’m sorry about everything that happened to you.” 

Buck sighed, his warm breath ghosting across Eddie’s neck gland, “Thanks.” He muttered. 

“You didn’t deserve that, you didn’t deserve any of it.” 

“Everyone keeps saying that.” 

“And everyone is right, because what they did to you was evil.” Eddie ran a hand through Buck’s hair, “You are so beautiful and sweet, you deserve nothing but kindness and love, Buck. You deserve alphas who treat you with respect.”

“Like you.” Buck said, voice small, but impossible for Eddie to miss. 

Eddie smiled at him, “Yeah, like me. I promise I’m going to be good to you Buck, I’m going to be so good to you, just like every other alpha in this pack.” He vowed. 

“No, not like every other alpha in this pack.” 

Eddie’s face fell, “What? Who’s treating you badly, I’ll sort them out, I promise.” 

“No, no, not that, they all treat me really well.” Buck rushed to clarify before his voice softened as he explained what he meant, “I don’t want you to treat me how the other alphas treat me. I- I want…” Buck couldn’t get the words out, but thankfully Eddie knew what he meant. 

Instead of a verbal response though Eddie rolled them both so he was on top of Buck, and then leant down and kissed him. Buck immediately began to reciprocate, a purr rumbling in the back of his throat. It felt like something snapped into place between the two of them, but it wasn’t like a magnet, the magnetism Eddie had first felt gone, it was more like two beings absorbing into each other and becoming one, so connected that they couldn’t be separated back into their separate components. 

“You’re everything Buck.” Eddie muttered, his voice getting lost in Buck’s mouth, “You’re everything.” 

Buck and Eddie stayed together until the alpha finally had to leave to pick up Chris, but Buck didn’t want him to go. It felt like without Eddie by his side, without his scent, Buck would spiral and get lost in the void. 

But clearly Eddie knew that so he slipped out of his hoodie and handed it to Buck, “I’ll bring more things for your nest soon, okay?” Buck nodded, unable to remember how words worked as he said goodbye to Eddie. 

Eddie gave Bobby and Athena both a hug, saying thank you and confirming that he’d get the necessary paperwork sorted and given back to Bobby, so he and Chris could be legally registered as members of the Grant-Nash pack. 

He then turned back to Buck, scenting their necks together, the pair nuzzling at each other before exchanging a quick kiss, completely ignoring the fact that Bobby and Athena were still there, watching.

“I’ll be back soon.” Eddie promised. 

Buck smiled at him, “Thank you.” 

With one more quick kiss Eddie was out of the door. 

Buck turned to see Bobby and Athena watching him, he’d evidently forgotten they were there if the shocked look on his face was anything to go off of, “Uh, I- I, uh, w-well, you see, I, uh-”

“It’s okay Buckaroo.” Athena soothed, “We had a feeling something like that would happen.” 

“He’s good for you, it’s part of why we want him in the pack.” Bobby added, putting a supportive hand on Buck’s shoulder. 

Buck gave them a shy smile before he pulled Eddie’s hoodie on, inhaling the scent of the alpha with a happy little smile before heading back to his room. 

“Do you mind if I come by after shift?” Eddie asked Bobby, “I’ve got some things for Buck’s nest.” 

“Of course.” Buck had actually been doing pretty well since Eddie left the day before. Granted he wasn’t as well as he was when Eddie was over but he wasn’t lost to the dissociative fog and brain damage as severely as he had been before Eddie had left something with his scent behind. So Bobby was pretty sure that even more things that carried Eddie’s scent would help Buck even more, “You’re welcome to stay for a while before you have to pick Chris up.” 

Eddie couldn’t stop the sappy little smile that came over his face, “Yeah, that would be nice, thank you.” A thought then hit the younger alpha, “Also, I’ve got that paperwork for you.”

“Wow, that was fast.” Bobby chuckled as he took the form filled envelope from Eddie.

“What can I say, I’m excited to be a member of the pack.” He said, following Bobby into his office. 

The envelope was unsealed, so once both alphas were seated Bobby pulled the paper out and went through them. Amongst the multiple forms there were copies of his and Chris’ passports and birth certificates, Eddie’s presentation certificate and his drivers license. 

The documents meant Eddie would get a new drivers license and he and Chris would get new passports with their pack information on it, which would result in Bobby becoming Eddie’s emergency contact and medical proxy, and, should anything happen to Eddie, Chris would be left in the pack's care, all standard changes for anyone joining a pack regardless of secondary gender. 

Bobby signed everything and put it away, adding it to a pile that required posting so it could all be processed by the court and legalised. He then looked up at Eddie, hands clasped, “What are your intentions with Buck?” He asked after a second.

“My- what do you mean?” Eddie was genuinely confused by that. 

“Can I be upfront and brutally honest?” Eddie nodded, “There’s something between you and Buck, the pair of you are acting like you’ve been together for years and just being around you improves Buck to the point he’s the complete opposite to how he usually is post-coma. Myself and Athena think it’s because your pheromones perfectly compliment each other and you can both feel it. It’s why you both start acting differently around each other. So, what’s your intention?” 

“Well, I, uh, I’ve not really thought about it.” He admitted. 

Bobby nodded, “That’s okay. Once you’ve figured it out, let me know. But I need you to know that we take Buck’s wellbeing extremely seriously, and as the person legally assigned Buck’s pack alpha it is my legal right to challenge you to a duel and kill you should you do anything to hurt him, and after everything he’s been through I won’t hesitate. 

“You’re a good kid Eddie, and I highly doubt you’ll do anything, but it needs to be said that as he’s an omega my allegiances lie with Buck. That kid is like a son to me and Athena, and we take his care extremely seriously. He and May are our top priority when it comes to pack safety and wellbeing, just remember that.”

“Of course.” Eddie nodded, “I wouldn’t expect anything less.” 

A warning like that was pretty standard when any betas or alphas joined a pack, it meant that should they be dueled or kicked from a pack the warning was in place and the action couldn’t be disputed. But following the Alpha Sleep incident Bobby and Athena took it even more seriously. 

“Good, I’m glad we’re on the same page.” Bobby told him with a soft smile, “And I’m glad you’ve joined the pack.”

“Thank you, really, it’s nice to actually find my own pack rather than having to be in the one I was born into.” 

“Bad pack growing up?” 

“Not bad, just not right.” 

Bobby gave him a nod of understanding, “I think a fair few of our pack had similar growing up. You’re not alone anymore Eddie, we’ve got you, through thick and thin, I promise.” 

Just like how all omegas smelt of strawberries, all alphas smelt of cedar, but there were always distinct undertones that gave a better indication of who an individual was, so as soon as Buck smelt the undertones that screamed ‘Eddie Diaz’ he was up and out of his room. 

“Eddie!” He ran at the alpha, wrapping his arms around him and scenting, Eddie easily reciprocating, the pair melting into the contact, “I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too.” The alpha replied, scenting even more vigorously. Buck began to purr loudly, “That’s it omega,” He soothed, “Take everything you need, I’ve got you.” Buck shoved his nose into Eddie’s neck gland, snuffling at it, prompting Eddie to rub a wrist gland on Buck’s neck, his purr increasing in volume, “Good omega. I have something for you, I brought some of mine and Chris’ things for your nest.” Buck’s breath suddenly hitched, a clear indicator he was about to cry, “Hey, hey, what’s wrong baby?” He asked, unsure what he’d done to make Buck cry, but whatever it was he needed to fix it. 

“You brought me things for my nest.” Buck sobbed, the tears not waiting to come, “Y-you didn’t have to, but you did, you brought me things, thank you.” Buck’s tears were coming in full force so Eddie doubled down on his scenting, “Thank you, thank you so much.” 

“That's okay omega, anything for you. Just keep scenting, love, you need it, keep scenting.” Obviously Buck kept following his instructions, who was he to deny Eddie? Besides, the alpha was right, he did need it, he needed it like he needed oxygen. “Shall we move to your nest?” He eventually asked. Buck nodded, “Okay.” Eddie gently lifted him up and carried him through to his room, placing Buck in the centre of the nest and climbing in on top of him. 

“I still can’t get over this.” Athena eventually said, turning to go to the kitchen so she could make them both a cup of coffee. 

“What’s the bet when Buck’s heats start up again they’ll end up spending it together and mating?” Bobby chuckled. 

“Oh, 100%.” Athena replied. 

Even though Heats came every three months Buck had yet to have one since the coma, the doctors said it was down to the damage his wolf had sustained, unable to let itself become that vulnerable nor having the energy to do so. The doctors said there was a chance his Heats would return but it all depended on how much he healed. But with how he and Eddie were, it looked like there was a good chance Buck would begin his Heats again and there was no doubt that if they resumed he’d be spending them with Eddie. 

“Do you think this could be dangerous?” Athena eventually asked. 

“How so?” Bobby looked at Athena, confused by the question. 

Athena sighed, “If they become too dependent on each other, what if Buck can’t even function whilst Eddie is at work? Or Eddie stops being able to function when Buck isn’t around?” 

“Maybe? But for now I think we just need to take it as it comes, focus on Buck getting better and take it from there.” 

Chapter Text

Buck woke with a trill to the smell of Eddie encompassing him and a warm weight on top of him. It took him a second to realise that those two things were linked; Eddie laying on top of him, happily snuffling away at one of Buck’s neck glands. 

“Hey you.” He said, pulling his face away from Buck’s neck and smiling down at him, “How are you feeling?” 

“Comfortable.” Buck hummed, “Happy. Warm.” 

Eddie let out a light chuckle, “Good, that’s good.” He then dipped down and pressed a soft kiss to the omega's lips, the younger man immediately reciprocating, “You’re so pretty. You are without a doubt the most beautiful omega I have ever seen.” 

But as soon as the complement left his lips Buck froze, looking up at Eddie with wide, terrified eyes. 

“What? What’s wrong?” He asked, needing to make his omega feel better. 

“I- I’m not beautiful.” The omega stammered. 

Eddie was really confused by that, “What do you mean? Of course you are.”

Buck shook his head, tears welling up in his eyes, “I’m a freak, I’m not beautiful, or pretty, I’m not nice to look at, I’m a fucking freak.” The tears broke free and began to pour down his face as Buck let out a sad and desperate whine. 

“No Buck, none of that is true, who told you that?” 

“M-my old housemates.” 

Eddie was furious at that, “Those cunts.” He growled, wrapping Buck up even tighter in his arms, “They’re wrong Buck. Those slimy, conniving cunts that are in prison for almost killing you after spending a year and a half abusing and manipulating you for their own entertainment are wrong. They are so, so wrong about you, I promise you Buck, you are stunning.” He continued to scent against Buck, cursing his old housemates and reassuring him that he was none of the horrible things they said about him. 

Eventually Buck’s tears stopped, and he began to drift off to sleep again, Eddie not giving up on his scenting, keeping up a loop of soothing phrases until Buck was fast asleep. 

As soon as Eddie was certain that the omega was asleep he couldn’t stop a few of his own tears spilling over, his heart breaking for the sweet man beneath him, who’d been subjected to far too much pain. 

Eventually Eddie had to go and pick Chris up so he gently woke Buck, “Baby?” Buck let out an adorable little grunt, clearly not happy about being woken up, “Buck, I need to get up.” Buck just held onto Eddie tighter, getting a chuckle out of the alpha, “Come on, I need to go and get Chris.” 

“Bobby or Athena can get him.” Buck grumbled. 

“No can do cariño, they’re not on the approved pick up list just yet.” 

Buck let out a desperate, reedy whine, “Don’t go.” 

Eddie placed a gentle kiss on Buck's birthmark, “I’ve got all sorts of things for your nest, you can add mine and Chris’ scents to it to help you until the next time I visit.” 

“Next time? You’re not coming straight back?” 

The way the omega’s lip wobbled and eyes shone with unshed tears broke Eddie’s heart but he didn’t have a choice, “I’m sorry Buck, but I need to take Chris home.” 

“But this can be your home.” He protested, “It’s big enough.” 

When Michael first designed the house for Athena he’d made it so it could be a pack house should she want that, or just have plenty of space for pups. But they’d ended up only having two pups (which was rather uncommon for a mated pair, usually having at least three but having as many as eight or nine wasn’t uncommon, nor was it shocking. Rich mated pairs were even known to have over twenty pups). So the house was big with plenty of rooms that were unused, furnished so other pack members could stay over should they want to, but none of them had permanent residents, except for Buck. 

“Buck-”

“Please Eddie, stay here!” 

Eddie couldn’t deny that it sounded like a dream, even after so few meetings with Buck. Bobby was right, there was something between them, and if their pheromones were perfectly matched then the chances of them mating and staying together was 99%. 

“Once the pack paperwork has gone through we’ll discuss it, okay? It got sent off today so it shouldn’t take too long, I promise.” Eddie gave Buck a sad smile, “I just need you to be patient for just a little bit longer, can you do that for me?” Buck nodded, but he clearly wasn’t happy about it, “Good omega.” He praised before placing a kiss on Buck’s lips. 

Eddie then stood and left, going to say goodbye to his new pack alphas. 

“Can Eddie live with us?” Buck asked Athena, the alpha curled up with Buck in his nest. 

“Does he want to?” She asked. 

Buck shrugged, “He said we’ll discuss it once the paperwork is done.”

“Buck, baby, do you want Eddie to be your mate?” 

Buck nodded, letting out a small, breathy, “Yeah. More than anything.” 

“If he wants that too, then Bobby and I will be more than happy to support the courting rituals, and we’d be more than happy for him and Chris to move in. But you need to talk to him about it. But you’ve got our blessing so it’s now down to you two.” 

“Thank you.” Buck mumbled, scenting against her.

Eddie knocked on Bobby’s office door, the Captain finishing up some paperwork on his computer. 

“Eddie, hi, what can I do for you?” He asked. 

“Can we talk? I mean alpha to pack alpha, not probie to Captain.” 

“Of course, take a seat.” Eddie sat, body stiff, clearly anxious and on edge, “So? What can I do for you?” 

“I, uh,” Eddie scratched the back of his neck, looking away from Bobby as he took a deep breath. He then turned back to the older alpha, finding the courage to speak, “I’d like you and Athena’s blessing to court Buck. I- I know we haven’t known each other long, but there’s something going on, and that something has me head-over-heels in love with him.” 

Bobby chuckled, “Buck and Athena had a similar conversation last night.” Eddie paled but Bobby just smiled at him, “Of course you have our blessing.”

Eddie was ecstatic at that, “Thank you!” 

“But remember my warning.” Bobby prompted, face serious, “Buck is one of my top priorities, and I will do anything to protect him, especially after everything he’s been through. And whether you court or mate that will always stand, clear?” 

Eddie nodded, “Crystal, sir. I promise I am going to do everything in my power to keep him safe and happy, and if I do anything that goes against that I’m willing to take whatever punishment you deem necessary." 

“Good man.” Bobby gave him a definitive nod before standing, prompting Eddie to stand as well. Bobby stuck his hand out, the pair shaking on it. As soon as they were done though, Bobby rounded the table and pulled Eddie into a hug, “You’re a good alpha Eddie and you’re good for Buck.” 

“Thank you for letting me be a part of his life.” 

Bobby pulled back, a soft smile on his face, “Before you came along we didn’t think Buck would ever, truly, live again. Thank you, you’ve started bringing him back to himself, back to life, and I will never be able to repay you for this.” 

“There’s nothing to repay me for, letting me into the pack and giving me permission to court him is more than enough.” 

“Do right by our boy, okay?” 

“Of course.” 

There was a gentle knock on Buck’s door, “Yeah?.” The omega called out. 

The door opened, Eddie popping his head in, “Can I come in?” He asked. 

Buck sat up and opened his arms wide, Eddie taking that as his cue to enter and climb into the nest. The omega curled up next to him, scenting against the alpha’s neck. 

“Didn’t expect to see you today.” Buck murmured around a happy purr. 

It had been two days since he’d asked for Bobby’s permission to court Buck but he’d been so swamped with work and Chris that he hadn’t been able to come over yet. 

“I made some time specially for you as I have something to ask you.” Eddie told him, placing a kiss to Buck’s right wrist gland, “I’ve already got Bobby and Athena’s blessing, so now I only need to ask you.” He said, “Can I court you?” 

Buck’s purr shuddered to a stop as he looked up at Eddie with wide, hopeful eyes, “Really?” He squeaked out. 

“Really.” Eddie confirmed, trying to hide his anxiety behind a soft smile. 

“Yes, yes please.”

Buck wasn’t keen on the idea of leaving the house, he’d kept himself shut away for so long, only leaving to go to the hospital or court that it felt like stepping past the boundaries of the Grant-Nash house was impossible. 

So dates often consisted of Buck and Eddie retreating to the end of the garden, relaxing in the warm summer evenings just chatting and getting to know each other past this inherent bond that tied them together. 

Eddie opened up about his childhood, about Shannon, his time in the army, and all the little things in between. Whilst Buck would tell him about his adventures on the road, the highlights of his time as a feral omega, but it was all heavily redacted. 

Based on what other pack members had said Eddie hadn’t been surprised when Buck evaded questions or refused to talk about his childhood, or when his time spent feral got serious, he didn’t even talk about the incident. So Eddie knew it wasn’t personal, even if he wanted to know it all, wanted to know every part of Buck good and bad. But the omega just wouldn’t let him in. 

The only people who really had an inkling of what had happened in Buck’s past were Bobby and Athena, but even then it was limited. 

But he hoped with time he’d slowly be let in, he just couldn’t rush the omega.

“I had a sister.” Buck admitted, lying on his back beside Eddie, staring up at the stars, “I- I mean a biological sister, her name’s Maddie.” Eddie reached out and took Buck’s hand, giving it a squeeze, encouraging him to continue, “I haven’t seen her in years, but I miss her.” 

“Where is she now?” Eddie asked, hoping to ease Buck into opening up. 

“Maybe Boston, maybe Pennsylvania, I don’t know.” He shrugged, “I’ve tried to track her down, but it’s hard.” 

“Have you spoken to Athena about this? Maybe she knows someone who can help.” Eddie suggested. 

Buck let out a hum as he considered it, but there was a sadness behind it, “If I did find her I don’t even know what I’d say, hell, I don’t know if I’d even be able to talk to her. Her husband is a piece of shit, he’s the reason we haven’t spoken in so long, he doesn’t like her having contact with me.” 

“Can I ask what their designations are?” 

“Don’t worry, they’re not mated, he’s an alpha and she’s a beta.” 

Eddie nodded, “Good, his claim over her is breakable. If we found her we could get her out of there, bring her into the pack, that way Bobby and Athena can offer her protection.” 

Buck squeezed Eddie’s hand, “It’s sweet that you want to help get her out of there, I appreciate it. But she’s married and it’s across statelines, which makes it tricky as she’s not related to our pack alphas.” 

“But not impossible.” Eddie reminded him, “And her husband can’t initiate dueling rights, that at least makes things a little easier.” 

“Can we leave it, please.” Buck sniffed, “I’ve looked into every possible option and they all point towards failure. She doesn’t know where I am, I don’t know where she is, and she’s stuck in an abusive relationship. It’s hopeless.” 

Eddie wanted to keep pushing, to keep finding a way to bring Maddie back to her brother but he needed to respect Buck’s wishes, especially whilst their relationship was still so young and the omega was still so fragile. 

“Alright, but I’m here if you ever want to talk about it some more.”

Buck rolled onto his side, Eddie following suit, “Thank you.” He muttered, pressing a kiss to the alpha’s lips. 

“Thank you for trusting me with that information.” He kissed Buck again.

Discussions about Eddie and Chris moving into the Grant-Nash house started as soon as the pack paperwork had been processed by the courts and the new IDs had come back. 

It wasn’t typical for an alpha and an omega couple to start living together so soon, but given Buck’s condition exceptions could be made. But as there was a need to stick to some form of tradition (those expectations were in place for a reason) it was agreed that Buck and Eddie would have separate rooms, in the hopes that they wouldn’t become too dependent on each other to an unhealthy degree. 

But Eddie and Chris moved in quickly, Eddie breaking his lease using the pack clause, wherein a tenant was able to leave their lease early if they were moving into a pack house, which the house could now be officially classed as as Eddie and Chris brought it up to six pack members living under the same roof full time. 

So Eddie broke his lease, moved out, so he and Chris could be near the pack alphas and the only two omegas. But mainly so they could be near Buck. 

Chris loved his new room. As Athena owned the house and Eddie and Chris had moved in as permanent residents, the pup was able to do whatever he liked to the room, not having to worry about appeasing a landlord. So when the move had been set in stone Bobby took Chris out to pick everything out for his room, all of the old furniture being donated to charity and Chris getting free rein to do with it as he pleased. For the first time Chris had a room that was completely his, through and through, a room that he had full control over. 

Eddie had had the same offer extended to him but he’d turned it down. The plan was to move into Buck’s room eventually (that had been decorated for him during the month he was still in hospital after the coma), once they were far enough into the courting process that it was allowed, but until then he was temporarily living in one of the spare bedrooms. 

But now that he was living in the pack house, only a wall separating him from the omega, his presence was having a noticeable impact on Buck who had improved a great deal. 

Sure he would still dissociate, laying in bed staring off into nothingness, becoming lethargic and numb, unable to feel anything. But his good days were getting more frequent, which was a massive improvement that everyone was very happy about. 

But then, as life always seemed to do, everything took a turn for the worse sooner rather than later.

Buck and Eddie had been courting for two and a half months when it happened. 

The omega was home alone when he was hit with a wave of heat cramps. The sensation feeling exactly the same as when Buck’s womb and ovaries had begun to grow when he first presented as an omega at 13. He curled in on himself as his abdomen throbbed, sharp pains flaring every 30 seconds, tears running down his face as he was overcome by pain. 

This pain had been the first sign of his presentation. At first he’d just thought he wasn’t very well, but then his mother had walked into his room and pulled a face of disgust as she smelt the air, “Phillip!” She’d called out, Buck’s father appearing in the doorway a few seconds later. 

“What is-” But he stopped as soon as he smelt strawberries. He let out a low growl before spitting out, “Of course you’re an omega.” 

His parents hadn’t wanted an omega for a son, they wanted him to be an alpha like his father, but they could’ve been okay with him being a beta like Maddie. But instead he was an omega like his mother. 

The first two weeks of his presentation had been hell, the constant pain in his gut telling him that the first stages of his womb growing had begun. They started out as a small cluster of cells but over the years it grew until he had a full sized womb and ovaries. Thankfully after the first two weeks the pain calmed down, instead just being a few random stabs of pain a day. 

But every pre-heat he’d be subjected to that pain all over again, unable to leave it behind in his childhood. A never ending reminder of what he was. 

The next pain that hit was the feeling of a phantom penis and testicles shrinking and shrivelling up, being reabsorbed into his body. That pain had begun a month after Buck began presenting. As he’d been born with male anatomy his body was forcibly changing so it was able to conceive and carry children, but as that meant he didn’t need a penis and testicles they slowly disappeared, his testicles shrivelling up into his body whilst his penis formed into his clitoris, his urethra splitting in two as his vagina formed, his body feeling like it was being ripped in two, until eventually his secondary urethra (aka the one he was born with) was no longer required, closing up and disappearing. 

His chest had become tender as he developed breasts and his nipples grew, but thankfully he’d ended up with small breasts, making them easy to hide which was something he actively did. But right now that same discomfort was rearing his head, making him feel tender and fragile all over again. 

This happened every heat, his body subjected him to the symptoms of his presentation all over again, reminding him of the horrors he had to live with from the ages of 13 to 18. He hated it, he hated it so much, especially this time as he was weaker than he’d ever been before, the damage his wolf had taken caused it to become confused, and therefore pushing the pain further. 

It also resulted in him becoming even more desperate for relief than he usually was, his wolf howling and screaming for an alpha, no, not any alpha, Eddie. His wolf was howling and screaming for Eddie to knot him. He needed his alpha, he needed Eddie. 

But Eddie wasn’t here right now, Eddie was at work just like the rest of the pack. 

He couldn’t think straight, the only thing he knew was that he needed relief and he needed it now. 

Buck didn’t know what to do, how to handle this. If he’d been in his right mind he’d realise he was going through Sudden Onset Accelerated Heat Syndrome which had completely bypassed pre-heat all together. 

Thankfully in a brief moment of clarity he was able to reach for his phone and call Bobby, hitting the button for his emergency contact. 

Bobby answered immediately, “Buck?” 

“Help.” Was all he managed to get out.

Bobby took the Captain’s truck, lights and sirens blaring as he made his way back to the house, nothing but worst case scenarios filling his head. 

He got there in record time and swung the door open with far too much force, “Buck? Buck!” He yelled into the house, making a beeline for the omega’s room. 

The smell of jasmine hit him with full force as soon as he opened the door. Omegas only smelt of jasmine when they were in heat, shit. 

“Oh, Buck.” He ran to the omega’s side, immediately able to see the young man’s glassy eyes and heat flushed skin, “I’m here kid, it’s okay, I’m here.” 

“Pops?” He muttered.

“Yeah, that’s right, your Pops is right here.” He soothed, “You’re in heat Buck, when did your pre-heat start?” 

Buck’s brow furrowed, his heat hazy brain taking far too long to process the question, but eventually he managed to figure it out, “Didn’t.” 

“Shit.” Bobby pulled his phone out, dialing 911. As soon as the dispatcher picked up Bobby began rattling off the address and all information. He then took Buck’s phone and took himself to the emergency call page, keying in Eddie’s number. 

“Buck?” He answered after the first ring.

“Eddie, it’s Bobby, I’m sorry to do this, but how do you feel about helping Buck through his heat?”

Eddie didn’t even have to think as an instinctive, needy whine of pleasure pulled itself from Eddie’s throat, “Yes, yes, I can help. Is he okay?” 

“He’s gone into SOAHS, I’m on the phone to 911 and they’re sending an ambulance to take him to Willow Heat Clinic, meet us there.” And then he hung up. 

It took ten more minutes for the ambulance to arrive but as soon as they did the alpha-omega paramedic duo got Buck ready to transport, the omega scenting Buck to keep him calm as they left Bobby at the threshold of the house. 

Of course Bobby had given them a run down of everything that had happened to Buck as they got him ready to transport but they hadn’t let him in the ambulance with them, SOAHS protocols were extremely strict and that included no alphas in the back of the ambo even if they did have scent patches on, meaning that the alpha paramedic was driving whilst the omega was in the back with Buck, the window connecting the two sections securely closed.

Eddie burst through the clinic doors, still in his uniform. 

“I’m here for Evan Buckley.” He said as soon as he reached reception, “I don’t know if he’s here yet but he’s being rushed in due to SOAHS, I’m his alpha.” 

“Mr Diaz?” The receptionist, a beta based on her yellow scrubs, asked after checking her screen. 

“Yeah, that’s me.” 

“And do you have two forms of ID on you?” 

He pulled out his wallet, grabbing his drivers licence and his credit card, handing them over. The receptionist looked at the photo, looked up at him and then compared the names on the two cards, “Perfect, thank you.” She then handed them back to him with a smile. 

The receptionist then stood and grabbed a clipboard and pen, “If you’d like to follow me.” She led him down some corridors and into a small exam room, “A nurse will be with you in just a minute, so take a seat for me and fill out this form.” And then she left, Eddie sitting on the exam bed, filling out the form as requested. 

It was a pretty standard form, information about things like age, weight, height, medical history. Nothing surprising as they were just like any other medical forms Eddie had filled out in the past, the only real difference being a few questions about his sexual history. Once it was done he put it to the side and peeled off his wrist and neck scent patches, planning on getting his ankle and inner thigh ones when he eventually stripped down. 

It wasn’t long before the door opened again and a woman in omega blue scrubs stepped in, “Mr Diaz?” 

“Just Eddie is fine.” He replied. 

“Eddie, lovely. You can just call me Ruby then. Can I take those forms from you?” He handed over the clipboard and Ruby scanned through the information, “So this is your first time with an omega, correct?” 

“Uh, yeah, first time. Only ever been with betas up until this point.” 

“It’s very different, but there’s nothing to be scared of, your alpha knows what to do and will react to your omega as soon as you’re in the same room, but I do need to do a few things to prepare you, for both of your safety, okay?” 

“Okay.” Eddie parroted. 

“Firstly, I just need to confirm a few things on here and then ask some additional questions. Full name is Edmundo Hugo Diaz.” Eddie nodded as Ruby sat down on a stool, “Date of birth is January 18th 1989.” 

“Yeah.” 

“Presented as an Alpha at 12.”

“Uh-huh.” 

“Your last rut was three and a half months ago.” 

“Yep.” 

She then flipped to the last page and pulled a pen out of her breast pocket, “Do you know your pheromone index at time of presentation?” 

“36.” 

She looked up at him, “Textbook, that’s what we like to see. And index at end of presentation?”

“78.” 

“Textbook yet again, looks like you’re the model alpha.” She looked back at the form, scribbling it down. 

“Do you know your pheromone type? It’s fine if not, most people don’t.” 

“It’s fine, I’m ex-military and a firefighter, we have to know for appropriate scent patches. I’m a JN.” 

“I love it when people have to have pheromone matched patches, it makes my life so much easier.” She chuckled. Ruby was extremely bubbly, but he assumed that was part of the job, having to keep alphas like him calm should they be worried about their partners or spending their first heat with someone. 

Ruby continued to scribble some more stuff down, Eddie wasn’t sure what though, probably some observations of her own, but eventually she was finished and put the forms down. 

She then stood and began to open up multiple drawers pulling out lots of different bits and pieces, and putting them in a tray. She put the tray on a rolling table and brought it over to where Eddie was sat, “I’m going to start by taking some blood, and then a pheromone sample, just so we’ve got all of that on record in case we need it, alright?” 

“Yeah, that’s fine.” 

As Ruby took the blood she continued to run Eddie through what would happen, “So, once your omega arrives we’re going to move him to a room and give him a few minutes to settle and take the same samples we’re getting from you now, as well as some vitamins and a really strong birth control. Obviously the over the counter heat contraceptives are extremely good but the ones we have here have a 99.9% success rate, I’m sure you can understand the complications if they failed and an omega and heat helper managed to conceive. 

“I’m also going to give you something that will help you not accidentally go into rut and will stop your wolf from forcing you to bite your partner. Again I’m sure you can guess the kinds of issues that could come from that if you were a heat helper. Have you and your omega discussed mating at all?” 

She put the blood samples away and began to prepare another needle so she could get a pheromone sample from his wrist gland, “Uh, not yet, we’ve only just begun courting.” 

She smiled at him, “Alright, well, I’m still going to let you know about this, just so you’re aware for the future. If you do continue to have your omega’s heats here and you decide you want to mate or conceive whilst at the clinic you can, but we have forms you’ll need to fill out. They do have to be completed two weeks in advance of the estimated heat date so we can make sure you’re making an informed decision that isn’t being swayed by heat pheromones, okay?” Eddie nodded again. Ruby then smiled at him, “Those are your samples done. I’m going to give you that pheromone and hormone injection I told you about and then you’ll be all good to go.” 

She stood and walked over to a medicine cabinet, she unlocked it and looked through the different vials in there eventually pulling one out. 

She then grabbed another syringe and some needles, extracting the liquid from the vial, “This is nothing nasty, they’re not even suppressants, it’s a combination of pheromones A- and C+ and hormones K and R, so they’re a nice little distraction for your alpha. They last 18 hours so every 17 hours a nurse will be in to administer a fresh dose, alright?” Eddie nodded, “Good. Now, sharp pinch.” She injected it into his bicep before removing the needle, “There we go, all done.” She then stepped away and disposed of the needle. She then opened another drawer and pulled out a plastic bag with red fabric inside. “If you could change into these for me, take all of your clothes and underwear off and leave them on the bed, someone will pack them up for you and put them away for safe keeping.” She handed the bag over to him, “Once you’re changed just wait here, another nurse will come and get you once your omega is ready. It was lovely meeting you Eddie.” And with that she left, vials of blood and pheromones in hand. 

Eddie opened the bag, pulling out what looked like a red bathrobe and some slippers. He took all of his clothes off like asked and put the robe on. Once he’d folded his uniform up neatly he sat back down and waited.

“Surely it’s a good thing that he’s started having his heats again.” Hen said, all of the adults in the pack gathered around the Grant-Nash lounge after their shift. 

“It would be, but it’s SOAHS.” Bobby sighed, “He skipped pre-heat completely.” 

Chim tutted, his heart breaking for the omega, “If anything was going to trigger a SOAHS episode it would be this.” SOAHS was triggered by extreme stress, trauma or a major injury, and Buck had pretty much been dealing with all three over the last nine months, “Have the clinic given any indication of how long they think the heat will last?” 

“Not yet, but myself and Athena are going in for a meeting with the doctor who’s been assigned to Buck’s case, hopefully they’ll have a clearer idea after the two of them have had a night together.” 

“What have you told the kids?” Karen asked. Buck had been rushed off late morning, meaning Chris had been at school when Eddie had had to leave, and now he’d be away for at least three days, if not longer as Buck’s heats usually lasted five days. 

“The truth.” Athena said with a shrug, “We told Chris that Buck’s gone into heat and his Dad’s had to go and look after him, but nothing more than that.” 

“But obviously May knows more.” Bobby added, “She’s also an omega who’s almost an adult, she knows what SOAHS is and she’s been having pup heats for years, no point shielding her from the truth.” 

“Good, I think she’d be pissed if she knew you were trying to keep the whole story from her.” Karen chuckled. 

Athena nodded, "Especially after everything that’s been happening following the incident, she’s so protective of her big brother she’d probably fight us and win.”

Eddie gazed down at Buck, the omega sleeping deeply during a lull in his heat. 

Buck had been in real rough shape when Eddie had arrived, eyes glassy and unseeing from a heat hazy brain, as he cried in pain and discomfort. 

The robe Eddie was wearing was the same red as the heat helper scrubs so Buck knew immediately that there was an alpha there to help him, even before he was able to process Eddie’s face and scent. So as soon as Buck had clocked the alpha red he’d begun to cry in relief, and then seeing that it was Eddie filled him with even more relief that he was sobbing, the force of it causing his whole body to spasm with each one. 

He’d soothed and scented Buck as he helped him through the first wave, letting his alpha guide him, just like Ruby had said. 

But they’d made it through the first wave and it had gone well, it had gone really well, the doctors had been extremely happy with it when they came to check up on Buck when he’d first fallen asleep. Eddie and his alpha were feeling extremely pleased with themselves. 

Eddie traced gentle, lazy patterns with his fingers on Buck's shoulders and chest, enjoying his omega’s soft skin as he watched him breathe, looking peaceful and comfortable in his sleep. 

Although Eddie wouldn’t be able to bite Buck this heat, but after his next one he would, because the next heat would mark the end of the courting period should it all go well. He’d obviously need Bobby and Athena’s blessing but he was going to be so good to Buck that they’d know how much he loved the omega and say yes. Because even when the omega wasn’t in heat Eddie’s alpha howled to protect him, wanting to do everything in its power to keep him from harm, a sentiment that Eddie shared. 

Buck was his, and that wasn’t just the omegas pheromones triggering that response. From the moment he met him he knew Buck was going to be his, the magnets pulling them together telling him as much. He was going to make Buck the happiest and safest omega to ever live, and he wasn’t going to let anything stop him.

Bobby and Athena had been called into the heat clinic first thing the following morning, and were immediately led through to an office where they were met by Doctor Jamerson, the beta doctor who was in charge of Buck’s care. 

“So, obviously this is an extremely severe case of SOAHS, as I’m sure you both know, even with a condition like this you’ll usually get around an hour of pre-heat but Mr Buckley didn’t have any at all. Thankfully because he and Mr Diaz are courting it’s making this a bit easier on his body, but were you aware that they’re perfect pheromone matches?” 

“We had our suspicions.” Bobby said. 

“Well you were correct. We ran an analysis on their blood and pheromones when they first arrived and I can confirm they have got, without a doubt, the most compatible pheromones I’ve ever seen. Which in this situation is fantastic, Mr Buckley’s heat would be far more dangerous and painful if it weren’t for that. I hope you don’t mind me saying but the fact they found each other is a miracle. It should be impossible for a pair to be that compatible, and yet here they are.

“Now, I’ve been looking over his medical records so I’m very aware of the brain damage he’s suffered and I’m not surprised he’s suffering from SOAHS, this is exactly the kind of thing they give as an example in medical textbooks. But I’m very pleased to tell you that there’s a good chance the heat will only last for five days just like his usually do. Now that Mr Diaz is looking after him there’s a very high chance this will progress as a normal heat, albeit a bit more painful than normal it will be no more dangerous than what we’d expect to see from him.” 

Bobby and Athena both felt a huge weight lift from their shoulders, their wolves relaxing a little bit, content that the omega would be okay and was being taken care of by the best possible person, “Good, that’s really good.” Bobby sighed, relief heavy in his voice. 

“They’re in the middle of a lull right now so if you’d like to come and look through the window into their room you can, I know that can often set pack alphas at ease if the omega is going through a particularly dangerous heat.” Jamerson offered.

“That would be lovely, thank you.” Bobby said. 

All three of them stood and then headed out of the office.

All of the rooms at the heat clinic had windows that looked into them so doctors and nurses could observe from afar, alongside cameras and microphones in the rooms to further assist with this. 

The windows were a two-way mirror that could become frosted when it wasn’t in use, meaning the people in the room didn’t know when they were being watched, giving an illusion of privacy, whilst the frosting made it so people walking past couldn’t just peer into the room and get a look. 

Jamerson swiped his pass and then hit the button that turned off the frosting, allowing Bobby and Athena to see into the room. 

Buck and Eddie were curled up together, sleeping peacefully. Jamerson turned on the speaker and they could hear Buck purring happily, clearly comfortable and satisfied which was always a good sign during a lull. 

The Doctor then scrolled on the tablet he was carrying, bringing up Buck and Eddie’s vitals, handing it over to the pack alphas, “All of their vitals are exactly how we want them to be whilst they’re at rest.” After a minute he took it back so he could bring up another screen, handing it back over, “And as you can see all of the readings from both the waves they’ve ridden are within a safe range. Mr Buckley’s are on the high end of that bracket but still safe so we’re not worried, although we are monitoring him extremely closely just to make sure the SOAHS doesn’t rear its head and take us into dangerous territory. They’re going to be okay.” Jamerson reassured them, “Mr Diaz is going to be more protective than usual and that may last for a few days to a week after the heat ends but that’s perfectly normal behaviour for an alpha who’s providing aftercare for an omega experiencing SOAHS.” 

“Thank you for this.” Athena nodded towards the sleeping alpha and omega, “We really appreciate it.” 

“It’s alright, I know my pack alpha would want a clinic to do the same for her if she were in your shoes.”

Buck’s heat lasted for five days, just like normal, the only real difference being that the waves of heat that hit for the first three days were abnormally intense and the discomfort that came just before them was extremely painful. 

But as soon as the familiar cramps hit him Eddie was there in seconds to chase them off. So whilst it was his most painful heat, it was still his best as it was Eddie who was looking after him, his Eddie, his alpha. Because even though they weren’t mated yet Buck still saw Eddie as his. Eddie was his alpha in all the ways that mattered, it was now just a case of biting. 

Once they were certain his heat had ended he had a health check with his doctor. Although it wasn’t common practice, when they had SOAHS cases come in, or any other form of heat complication, a health check was always done before the omega left. 

Unfortunately Buck had fallen into one of his dissociative episodes, just staring off into the middle distance as Jamerson checked him out physically and took blood and pheromone samples. 

“Are you able to bring him back for me?” Jamerson asked Eddie, who was sitting next to the omega, “I need to ask him some questions.” 

“Buck?” He gently called out, ghosting a wrist gland against one of Buck’s neck glands. When that didn’t work he brought the omega to his chest, scenting him with his neck. Buck came back to awareness with a gasp, blinking heavily. “Hey baby, Doctor Jamerson just wants to ask you a few questions, is that okay?” 

Buck curled up into Eddie’s side, trying to get as many of the alpha’s pheromones on himself. He then gave them a small nod, “Well done baby.” Eddie praised, pressing a kiss to the top of Buck’s head. 

“How’s your body feeling? Any more cramps or other phantom presentation sensations?” 

“No, all gone.” Buck muttered. 

“Good, and how’s your body feeling.” 

“Achy.” 

“More or less achy than usual, or about the same?” 

“Bit more than usual.” 

“On a scale of one to ten, one being exactly the same, to ten which is excruciating, how much worse is it?” 

Buck had to think for a second, even though he was back in his body his brain was still slow, like he was wading through treacle. But eventually he figured it out, “Three.” 

“Good, that’s good. And are you still feeling empty, or are you satisfied?” 

“Satisfied.” Buck let out a massive yawn at that. 

Jamerson gave him a soft smile before looking up at Eddie who had a similar expression on his face, only with far more love, “Compared to how tired you usually are post heat, where are you at? More, less or about the same?” 

“More.” Buck’s voice was muffled by Eddie’s neck, melting into his alpha more and more with each second that passed. 

“One to ten?”

“Ten.” Jamerson nodded to himself but looked concerned. 

As if the question had triggered it Buck went completely limp as he fully fell asleep. 

“This is pretty standard nowadays.” Eddie informed him. 

Jamerson hummed, “I’m not surprised with the CFS, but worrying none the less.” 

The Doctor didn’t feel the need to ask anymore questions so was happy to let Buck sleep whilst they waited for the results of his blood and pheromone tests to come back.

It took half an hour but they eventually had the results. 

Buck was still fast asleep but Bobby had arrived to pick Buck and Eddie up, so as the omega’s medical proxy Bobby was able to get the information instead, giving permission for Eddie to be present as well. 

“Given everything he’s been through and how he was when he came in, all of his results have come back within a safe range.” He then turned the tablet to Bobby. Jamerson pointed to the screen, “This is from when he first arrived, his pheromone levels were way too high, even for an omega in heat, which is indicative of SOAHS. We typically want to see heat pheromone levels between 0.4 and 0.7, but his was at 1.2, so far higher than we would’ve liked. But again, given it’s SOAHS that wasn’t surprising. Post heat they should drop to 0 or 0.1 at the most, and Mr Buckley’s have dropped down to 0 so there’s nothing to be concerned about. 

“Then, typically, during heat the pheromone index will usually drop to between 64 and 73, but Mr Buckley’s dropped to 57, which, again, is not uncommon with SOAHS. But this has gone back up to 104 which is close to his post-presentation index and within a safe fluctuation range. So physically he’s perfectly healthy. Of course I can’t fully comment on his mental state as a result of the brain damage, but based on everything he’s said his omega has calmed and has been fully satisfied. 

“As a result of the SOAHS and perfect pheromone compatibility we have administered Mr Buckley with hormones that will stop any potential pregnancy from taking, just in case it managed to bypass the birth control. It’s highly unlikely but better safe than sorry, especially in his weakened physical state a pregnancy would be extremely dangerous and more than likely fatal.”

He then turned to Eddie, “Look, I know you haven’t been courting long but I want to mention this now so you’re aware of it as far in advance as possible; if you and Mr Buckley do decide to have children there’s a very high chance it won’t take, but if it does your midwife will probably highly recommend you terminating the pregnancy or insist on him being hospitalised for the whole process because of how dangerous it will be for him. If his physical health improves then of course this warning will become void but in his current state I would highly dissuade you from trying. And if he does improve and you decide you do want to conceive, you should have a very long and in depth conversation with Mr Buckley’s gp, an omega pregnancy specialist and one of our heat doctors to confirm that it is safe and viable, okay?” 

That was a lot for Eddie to take in, but he appreciated the advance warning so he nodded, “Yeah, okay.” 

“What were his breeding instincts like during his heat?” Bobby asked. 

“One of our nurses reviewed the footage and audio for exactly that and Mr Buckley didn’t bring it up once over the whole five days. I think his omega knows they’re in no state to carry a pup so didn’t have that response as it wants to keep the host safe. I’ll be honest if he doesn't physically improve I highly doubt he’ll even have the desire to conceive and have pups of his own.” 

Part of him was glad that Buck wouldn’t want to have pups in his current state, it would stop the heartbreak that would come otherwise. It wasn’t uncommon for omegas who were unable to conceive to fall into a deep depression, their wolves so desperate to be mothers that even though it wasn’t possible they still craved it. And Buck couldn’t handle being thrown into an even deeper depression, so Eddie was glad that that wasn’t something he’d need to worry about. But there was also a part of him that was sad, sad because he saw how good Buck was with Christopher, and sad because, a bit selfishly, he would really like to have pups with Buck. 

It wasn’t long after that that they were cleared to leave so Eddie woke Buck and the three of them headed out to Bobby’s truck. Buck and Eddie were both in the back, Buck laying along the seats with his head in Eddie’s lap, falling asleep almost immediately. 

Eddie was glad it was the middle of the day when they got home as it meant the pups were at school. So the house was nice and quiet, giving Buck the time and space to settle back into his room. 

The young alpha carried Buck into the house and laid him down in his nest, gently stripping him out of his clothes before doing the same himself. He then crawled in and wrapped himself against Buck, making sure as many of their glands were touching as possible, gently scenting the sleeping omega. 

Buck began to purr in his sleep, the skin on skin contact warming his ice cold skin, and cooling Eddie’s boiling hot skin, bringing them to a comfortable equilibrium. 

Eventually Eddie drifted into a light sleep, but his alpha was on patrol, listening out for any potential threats as he protected his recovering omega. 

There would be the occasional creek of a floorboard, or a door closing a little too loudly and Eddie would readjust in his sleep so he was covering Buck. His wolf moving him into a protective position, so his thick alpha skin could get in the way of any damage that may come to the fragile omega skin below him. 

There was a light knock on the door which woke Eddie who began to instinctively growl as the door opened a crack. But as soon as he smelt his pack alpha the growl stopped, replaced by an apologetic whine. 

“Hey, you’re alright.” Bobby said, voice soft, “You’re doing a really good job of protecting your omega.” With that the whine stopped, his pack alpha not needing appeasing (an instinctive response all alphas carried, a sign that they didn’t want to duel their pack alpha, a sign that they were submitting to the hierarchy) “I just wanted to let you know I was going to do a late lunch, do you want anything?” 

Eddie nosed at the underside of Buck’s jaw and then nibbled it, the more primal actions a sign that his alpha was having a clear say in his current actions. 

Buck woke with a trill, his eyes blinking open, “Do you want something to eat, baby?” He shook his head, “You should eat, regain some strength.” 

“Okay.” He mumbled. 

Eddie then turned back to Bobby, “Food would be great, thanks.” 

“Perfect. Can I come over and say hello?” Eddie nodded immediately, this was his pack alpha who he knew and loved and trusted, of course he’d let him near Buck, but he appreciated that he’d still asked for permission. “Thank you.” He stepped over and ran a hand through Buck’s hair before kissing his temple, then doing the same to Eddie, “I’m just going to do sandwiches, I’ll bring them through as soon as they’re ready.” 

“Thank you.” Eddie said, and with that Bobby left them to it.

“Dad and Buck are home?” Chris gasped excitedly, “Can I go and see them?” 

“Let me go and see if they’re okay to have visitors yet.” Bobby said, heading to Buck’s room to check on the alpha and omega. He knocked gently on the door before poking his head in, “Buck? Eddie? Chris is here, do you feel well enough to see him?” 

“Buck?” Eddie prompted, leaving the decision up to the omega. 

“Yeah, I’d like to see him.” 

“Give us a minute to get dressed and then he can join us.” 

With that Bobby left and got Chris, the pair waited for a few minutes before heading to the room and knocking on the door, Eddie confirming they could enter. 

Chris came into the room as fast as his crutches could take him, “Can I please enter your nest?” He asked, stopping at the edge of the bed, keeping a respectful distance, just like his Dad had taught him. 

“Of course.” Buck told him, voice tired but smile wide, “Come on in bud.” 

Chris dropped his crutches and climbed onto the bed, crawling so he was in between Buck and Eddie. 

Buck wrapped his arms around him and pulled him close, scenting himself against the pup. Chris couldn’t help but giggle, he didn’t know many omegas and Buck was the only one he was close enough to to scent with, and it had been a whole week since they’d last done this so Chris was very excited. 

Even though they’d only known each other for a few months Buck had already begun to fill the spot Shannon had left behind, and carve out his own as his maternal omega. It probably helped that Buck and Eddie’s pheromones were so well matched that Chris was picking up on it and as a result he also felt a want to be near Buck. 

“You have a nice week?” Buck asked. 

“Yeah!” Chris replied with another little giggle. 

“What did you do?” 

“Me and Denny hung out loads, and we went to the movies, and then Bobby and Athena took me to the pier and we went on all of the rides.” He gushed, nuzzling in closely to Buck, “And May helped me with a school science project about alphas, betas and omegas. Did you know she’s really smart!” 

Buck let out a sleepy chuckle, “I did, she’s one of the smartest kids in her class.” 

“Wow, she didn’t tell me that!” 

“Well, she’s very humble.” Buck then let out a massive yawn. 

“Why don’t we let Buck get some sleep, mijo.” Eddie prompted. 

Chris let out a sad little puppy whine, “Does that mean I need to leave?” 

“That’s up to Buck.”

“Of course you can stay.” 

Buck was asleep almost immediately, and it didn’t take long for Eddie to detect the slight hint of camomile coming from him, meaning he was letting off the kind of pheromones that helped pups fall asleep. Meaning within a few more minutes Chris was also asleep, leaving Eddie to hold his pup and omega close, doing his alpha’s duty by keeping them safe and comfortable. 

Eddie wasn’t keen on leaving Buck’s side, he and the omega practically stuck to each other’s hips at all times, where Buck went Eddie went, and if anyone got too close he’d begin to growl at them. Obviously they were only ever around the pack so Eddie would catch himself growling and would immediately begin apologising with small whines. But the whole pack understood, they knew the situation and insisted that Eddie didn’t need to whine in response but it was instinctive, just like the growling. 

But Buck clearly didn’t mind having Eddie all over him, he welcomed it, only breaking physical contact when absolutely necessary. 

The pair rarely left Buck’s room, constantly curled up in the nest. Sometimes Chris would be between them, and other times Eddie would leave the nest and sit in the armchair that was in the room so May could join her brother as she did homework or they watched a movie together. 

The pair were clearly happiest in each other’s company, purrs often being heard from behind Buck’s door and even when they joined others in the lounge or went to the garden they were always maintaining some form of physical contact with gentle purrs rattling in Buck’s chest. 

And that was enough for Bobby and Athena to make a very important decision.

Buck, Eddie, Bobby and Athena were relaxing in the lounge five days after the young alpha and omega got back from the clinic, when Bobby brought it up. 

“Now that you’ve spent a heat together.” He began, “Athena and I have discussed it and if you two decide it’s time to share a room then we’re happy for that to happen.” 

“We’ve also spoken, and given the circumstances, should you want to skip the last three months of the recommended courting period you are more than welcome to.” Athena added. 

“You mean we don’t have to wait for my second heat?” Buck asked, trying to hide his excitement. 

“We don’t need the second heat to prove you’re a good match, you already show it everyday and the tests run at the clinic confirmed that you are a perfect pheromone match, as we expected.” Athena explained.

“And both of you have expressed the desire to mate in the past, so whenever you’re ready let us know and we’ll make sure everything is ready to go.” 

Buck began to purr loudly, Eddie pressed a kiss to Buck’s birthmark whilst Bobby and Athena just smiled at them, looking extremely happy. 

“I just need to get May and Chris’ blessings and then we can arrange it, okay?” Eddie murmured, knowing it was very important to both of them that the other two people that were part of their immediate families gave their blessings. 

“Okay.” Buck replied, turning so he could kiss Eddie on the lips before scenting himself against the alpha.

Eddie knocked on Chris’ bedroom door before stepping in to find his son sat on his bed, reading. 

“Hey buddy.” He greeted. 

“Hi Dad.” He chirped. 

Eddie walked over and sat down on one of the beanbags in the room, “I have something I need to ask you. It’s very important, but whatever your answer is I promise everything will be okay and no one will be upset, okay?” 

Chris’ brow furrowed in concern, “Okay?”

“You know about mating, right?” Chris nodded, “And how usually the courting process lasts for at least two heats?” Chris nodded again, “Well, the doctors at the heat clinic that me and Buck went to said that our pheromones are the perfect match, so because of that and how much my presence has helped with Buck’s brain damage, it’s proof that we’re so good together that we don’t have to wait two heats if we don’t want to. So Bobby and Athena have given me their blessing to mate Buck, but I wanted to make sure you were okay with that too. He wouldn't be replacing your Mom and you wouldn’t have to call him Mom if you don’t want to, so you don’t need to worry about any of that. And you can think about it if you like.”

“Yes! Please, please, please!” Chris was vibrating with excitement. In truth Eddie knew the pup would agree, but he’d still wanted to ask as he didn’t want his son to think he wasn’t taking his feelings into account as this was a big change. Chris then gasped, excitedly, “Does this mean I get to call him Mom? Is he going to be Buck Diaz now? Do we get to stay here forever?” 

“Yes, yes and yes.” Eddie chuckled, “But only once we’ve mated, okay? You remember the rules.” 

Chris nodded, “Yeah, I remember, ‘mating is sacred, respect the bite’.” Chris rattled off the mantra all kids were taught at school. 

“Good kid.” Eddie smiled, ruffling his hair, “Have you got any other questions?” 

“When’s the ceremony?” 

“We don’t know yet, I need to get May’s blessing and then we can start to make arrangements.” 

“Can you do it on a school day so I can have the day off?” 

Eddie laughed loudly at that, “No Chris, it’ll be when you’re not at school.” 

“Okaaaay.” Chris groaned loudly.

The following morning Eddie knocked on May’s bedroom door, only entering once she’d called out. 

He stepped in to find her curled up in her nest with her laptop, doing her homework, “Hey, you got a second?” 

“Sure, sit wherever you like.” 

He pulled her deskchair over so he was sat opposite her, but not too close that he was encroaching on her nest. 

“I thought you’d be in with Buck.” He said.

May just shrugged, “Didn’t want to disturb him, I’ve been having to play videos for this.” 

Buck had been struggling for the last few days, he’d hit a rough patch so he’d been dissociating a bit more than he usually did with Eddie around and his sleep had been more broken, so everyone was trying to avoid anything that could wake him up whilst he was sleeping. 

“Right, that makes sense. It’s also good because I wanted to talk to you about this without him around.”

“Are you going to ask for my blessing? Because if you are, you’ve got it.” May didn’t even look up from her laptop, continuing to type. 

“How did you know?” 

May chuckled, finally putting her laptop aside, “My brother tells me everything, did you really think he wasn’t going to tell me that my Dad and Bobby gave you their blessing to mate, or that you said you wanted mine and Chris’ blessing before you officially asked him?” 

“Right, of course he did.” Eddie couldn’t hold back a chuckle of his own but sobered up quickly, “And you’re sure you’re okay with this?”

“Of course I am, you’re perfect for each other and I want him to be happy. You’re what makes him happy Eddie, so there isn’t a single reason why I wouldn’t want you to be together.” 

“Thank you May, really.” 

“Come here you big softie.” She opened her arms to him. 

“I- I can enter your nest?” Sure he and May got on well but he hadn’t thought they were close enough that he’d be allowed in her nest. 

May grinned at him, “You’re about to be family, get in here.” 

Eddie couldn’t stop himself from beaming as he crawled into May’s nest, wrapping her up in his arms and squeezing her tightly. 

“Thank you.” He said, “I promise I’m going to take care of your brother and make sure he’s the happiest omega ever.”

“I know you will.” May replied, gently scenting against him in a display of trust. Suddenly she pulled back and pointed an accusatory finger at him, “I swear to god though, I can and will make your life a living hell if you do anything to upset him, so don’t even think of crossing me.” 

Eddie bared his neck at her, letting out a small whimper, a sign of alpha submission, “I promise you I will do everything in my power to make sure he is happy and healthy, and if I don’t then you have full permission to make my life hell.” 

“Oh I didn’t need your permission, I was going to do it either way, but I appreciate it.” She smirked, but welcomed him back almost immediately, Eddie accepting the hug.

“I’ve got Chris and May’s blessing.” Eddie told Buck that night, the pair curled up together in Buck’s nest, which was on top of what was now officially their bed, “So, how does next weekend sound?” 

He knew Buck wouldn’t want to wait but they’d still need time to get things set up, so a week and a half sounded like a good compromise. 

Buck began to purr loudly, “Yeah, I like that.” 

“Good, I’ll get the paperwork printed out and sort everything out with Bobby and Athena.” Traditionally it was always the alpha who got everything ready with the help of the pack alpha. And although people weren’t as strict about tradition nowadays most people did still tend to stick to it, and as Buck had shown no sign of wanting to go against tradition Eddie was happy to follow through with his role as alpha. 

“Thank you.” 

Chapter Text

It was Eddie’s first day back at work, his alpha instincts having calmed enough that he could return, but a part of him felt unsettled, no longer having Buck by his side. 

He’d left Buck in bed that morning, the omega fast asleep. He’d woken him briefly to tell him he was going and remind him he was just a phone call away, before he gave him a kiss and gently scented him, and then he was out the door. 

So he knew Buck was safe, and he knew Athena had the day off so he wasn’t in an empty or alpha-less house, but he still felt unsettled. He’d spent the last two weeks with Buck, one of those weeks was spent helping him through SOAHS and the other was him making sure the omega was okay, so suddenly being apart after something like that wasn’t sitting well with his wolf. 

“Eddie?” Hen called out as she and Chim sat on the back of the ambulance, watching as the alpha in question paced back and forth, “Are you okay there?” Eddie shook his head but didn’t say anything, “Do you need something to help calm your alpha?” Even without smelling him it was obvious his alpha had gone into overdrive and had become unsettled. 

“No.” He snapped. 

“You sure? We’ve got some high-grade suppressants if you want them.” 

“Fuck off.” He growled, “I’m fine.” 

“Woah, hey man, not cool.” Chimney said, even though he knew it wouldn’t have much of an effect, if any, “If you’re this pent up you can’t work and could become dangerous, so either you need to regulate yourself, take a suppressant or go home. And I’m not going to recommend the last one as that will only make this-” He waved his hand up and down to indicate Eddie’s body, “Worse. So either chill or take the suppressants." They all knew his current demeanour was a result of him being so far from Buck after the last two weeks they’d had, so they really needed to make sure the pair could be healthily separated, and if that meant temporary suppressants then so be it. 

“He’s got a point.” Everyone’s heads snapped over to Bobby, not expecting the pack alpha to have appeared, “You need to be here Eddie, so the choice is yours.” 

Eddie groaned, “Fine, I’ll take the suppressants.” They all knew that that was the best course of action, because Eddie would no doubt get this riled up again pretty soon if they didn’t quiet the wolf. 

Hen stood and jumped into the ambo, opening up one of the compartments and pulling out a vial of suppressants. 

She grabbed a needle and then climbed back down. She drew the medicine and then turned to Eddie, “You ready?” 

Eddie rolled one of his shirt sleeves up so Hen could have access to his bicep, she quickly administered it before going to dispose of the needle. 

“Work out some of the energy in the gym, okay?” Bobby told him. 

“Fine.” Eddie grumbled, slinking off to get changed. 

Bobby let out a deep sigh, “Well, we knew this was a risk once he came back to work, but still-” He shoved his hands in his pockets, “The sooner they’re mated the better.” He then wandered off to his office, planning on starting on his half of the mating paperwork.

It was a long day for everyone involved, Eddie constantly in the gym to work off any pent up energy that was getting through from his alpha even on the suppressants, whilst Hen, Chim and Bobby kept an eye on him so he didn’t bite anyone’s head off. It felt like they were all on high alert all day and it was exhausting, but it wasn’t Eddie’s fault, when alphas got like this it was just a case of riding it out until they could get their wolf under control. It was going to be a tough few days, but they’d get through it.

As soon as Eddie got home he made a beeline for his and Buck’s room, slipping in to find the omega in his nest, staring off into nothingness. 

“Buck?” He gently called out but didn’t get a reply. Eddie moved closer to the bed and tried again, “Buck?” When he still didn’t get a reply he crouched down so he was eye level with the omega, “Baby, are you with me?” He reached out to brush a curl out of Buck’s face, he was overdue a haircut meaning he’d probably end up in the kitchen soon with May sorting his hair out so it wasn’t all in his face. “Buck, come on.” He gently rubbed his wrist gland on Buck’s neck, when he didn’t get a response Eddie climbed into bed and wrapped his arms around Buck. 

Buck was still in a rough patch, the last few days having been challenging, so there was no doubt that Eddie’s first day at work had made him crash, much like how it had put Eddie on edge. 

He could feel his alpha scratching at the walls of his brain, demanding he stop going to work so he could stay and look after Buck. But thankfully there were still enough suppressants in his system that he could think straight. They all knew there would be an adjustment period, so after a few days they’d both settle and then at the weekend they’d mate and that bond would help settle them both further, making the distance less painful. They just needed to wait it out and let it run its course. 

So Eddie laid in bed, scenting Buck until the omega finally came back to himself with a deep breath. Buck then rolled over so he was facing Eddie, “Hey baby.” The alpha greeted as the omega shoved his face into the other man’s neck, “That’s it, take everything you need, you’re doing so well.” Eddie joined in with the scenting, helping Buck get as much of his smell on him as possible. Eventually a purr began to rumble in his chest which was an extremely good sign, “You like that, huh?” He chuckled, “Good, keep going.” 

Buck didn’t say anything but he eventually fell asleep, his whole body relaxing and his purr getting louder. 

Eddie didn’t stop scenting against Buck, working to keep the omega in a deep sleep as his dissociative episodes made him tired, his wolf frozen in fear using up all of his energy. So Eddie knew Buck would need as much rest as possible, doing everything he could to help keep him in a deep sleep (without resorting to Alpha Sleep, as although it had restorative properties and would help Buck rest completely it wasn’t a topic he wanted to broach with him, not after everything that had happened). 

So Eddie laid there, with Buck wrapped up tightly in his arms, scenting him and peppering him with kisses, letting the comforting smell of his cedar pheromones remind Buck that he was safe.

The week continued pretty much the same, but with each day it eased. So whilst Buck was still dissociating the episodes were easier to snap out of, and whilst Eddie was still pent up it was easier for him to calm himself. 

And then Eddie would get home and crawl into bed with Buck, holding the omega close and bringing him comfort. Sometimes Chris would jump in with them, other times May would make herself comfortable at the end of the bed or on a beanbag she’d drag in so she could be nearby whilst she did her homework.

“You’re mating tomorrow!” Chris practically squealed with excitement on Friday night, sandwiched between his Dad and Buck. 

“Yeah we are mijo.” Eddie chuckled. 

“I’m so excited!” 

“So are we.” Buck told him with a sleepy mumble, “Can’t wait.” 

Chris rolled onto his side so he was facing Buck, “Buck?” Buck let out a hum to confirm he was listening, “Once you and Dad are mated, am I allowed to call you Mom?” 

Buck placed a soft kiss on Chris' forehead, “Yeah. Yeah you are.” 

The pup excitedly nuzzled into Buck’s neck, happily sniffing away, “Thank you!” 

“Get some sleep.” Buck told him, “It’s a big day tomorrow so you need to get some rest.” 

“But I can’t, I’m too excited!” 

Both Buck and Eddie chuckled at that, but it was Buck who spoke, “Close your eyes and I’ll make sure you can sleep, okay?” 

“Okay.” Chris did as he was told whilst Buck hummed a lullaby Maddie used to sing to him as he focused on the camomile pheromones that would send Chris to sleep. 

The next morning Chris and Eddie got up at 6am, leaving Buck to keep sleeping. 

It was tradition that the alphas prepared everything for the ceremony so it was an early morning for Eddie, Bobby and Athena, and Chris had insisted on supervising but he just ended up falling back asleep on the couch. 

As soon as the alpha and pup had left the omega’s room May slipped in and climbed into Buck’s nest, curling up with him. 

It was going to be a lazy morning for Buck and May, the pair of them not being involved in any of the preparations so able to relax and do whatever they liked. So they opted to, unsurprisingly, sleep all morning, a harmonious purr slipping out from under Buck and Eddie’s bedroom door. 

Eddie couldn’t stop himself from letting out a little chuckle at the sound, “Listen to them,” He said, a massive smile on his face, “Fast asleep, the pair of them.” 

“There are many things I love about having omega siblings under one roof,” Athena hummed, “And that sound is one of them.” 

“I couldn’t agree more.” Eddie chuckled as he wove some cord into a braid.

 The house was full of activity all morning, with the rest of the pack arriving at nine so Hen could help whilst the betas and pups all relaxed and hung out. Denny and Chris went off to play video games together whilst Chim and Karen sat on the couches with coffee, chatting and catching up. 

This was the first mating ceremony the pack were having (as Athena and Michael had been mated long before this pack formed) and it was going to be by the book, so the alphas bustled around all morning perfecting everything in accordance with tradition. 

Of course Chim and Karen wanted to help, but this wasn’t the role they played. As the mediators of a pack it was the betas who actually performed the ceremony, bridging the gap between alpha and omega. 

The house was lively, full of chatter and laughter, music underscoring the whole thing. It was a happy day and that was heavily reflected in everyone’s moods. 

But eventually all of the prep was done, so everyone split off to get changed. 

As soon as everyone was ready Athena went and got Buck and May, told them to get changed and then went to wait with the others. 

It didn’t take the omegas long to get ready, so in no time at all everyone was in the lounge. 

Eddie stepped over to them and pulled Buck into a hug, giving him a quick kiss, “You look lovely.” He complimented, making Buck blush. 

The alpha then linked arms with the omega and led him out into the garden. 

Everyone else gathered around them in a large circle, other than Chimney who was standing in the middle with Buck and Eddie. 

“You guys ready?” He asked, smiling at the pair. 

“Never been more ready for anything in my life.” Eddie said, looking Buck in the eyes. 

Buck nodded in agreement, “Yeah, I’m ready.” 

“Hold hands for me.” Chim said, the pair following his instructions. Karen then stepped forward, wrapping the braid Eddie had woven earlier that day around the alpha and omegas joined hands. “With this rope you are tied together, joined as one. Two wolves, one soul, a bond that can never be broken. This rope is your unity, a promise to love, care and protect. 

“Edmundo, as the alpha it is your duty to keep your omega safe, to protect him from harm and other alphas, to shelter him from the storms of life and weather them by his side. You dedicate your life to the care of your omega, to keep him warm and fed, to keep him close, as is your duty.”

“As is my duty.” Eddie repeated, “Should harm befall you my strength and power shall be called into question, a failing in my role as your alpha. I vow to keep you safe with everything I have, or the wrath of the pack I submit to. As is my duty.”

“Evan, as the omega it is your duty to care for your alpha, to nurture and support him, through thick and thin. You are bound to him and must listen and obey, to follow his commands as he is trying to keep you safe. In return it is your role to care for pack and home, as is your duty.”

“As is my duty.” Buck said, smiling at Eddie. The ceremony hadn’t changed in centuries, the words exactly the same. That didn’t mean Buck had to become subservient to Eddie, it wasn’t about the words literal meaning, but what they evoked within the bond, “This home and this pack are mine to care for, to love and nurture in return for your constant protection. I shan’t deny you, as my wolf and soul belong to you, you are my one and only alpha, and should I stray, the wrath of the pack I submit to. As is my duty.” 

Chim then looked to Bobby and Athena, “As pack alpha, do you bless this mating?”

“We do.” Bobby and Athena said in unison. 

“Do you give permission for the alpha to take on responsibility for the omega.”

“We do.” 

“But do you still swear to protect the omega from the alpha should these vows be broken?” 

“We do.” 

“With the pack alpha’s blessing, permissions and oath, I hand the omega to the alpha, and invite you to place the first mating bite.” 

Eddie leant forward, his fangs had dropped when the cord was wrapped around his and Buck’s hands, the tight braid soaked in oils that encouraged them to drop as it sat against his wrist glands. He lightly grazed his fangs against Buck’s neck gland as he opened his mouth and then sank his fangs in. 

Golden mating venom flowed from him to Buck, the omega pressed against the alpha’s chest, held up by him as the venom entered his system, relaxing him so much he practically melted into the other man. Buck’s legs were like jelly and he couldn't hold himself up, his eyes fluttering shut as he submitted to Eddie and his venom. Over the first month Eddie was going to have to bite Buck every other day as the venom began the initial stage of infection, forcing itself into Buck’s cells as it started to piggyback on his DNA. This was what would start the initial bond as well as trigger Buck’s body's inability to handle other alphas mating venom, making it deadly. After the first month the changes caused by Eddie’s venom would become more permanent, his body able to replicate it when new cells formed, the mating bite becoming permanent. It would take two more months for it to become fully irreversible, but after the full three months the pair would be officially mated, Buck’s very being a mixture of him and Eddie and there was nothing that could change that. 

Once Eddie’s venom ran dry, the first dose fully administered, he pulled his fangs free. He kept his tight grip on Buck, the omega now fully unconscious as the venom began to work. 

Eddie lifted him up and carried him to their room, gently placing Buck in his nest and curling up with him, his body shielding the defenceless omega, scenting him to help his body with the process. 

Over the next three months their bond would consolidate and Eddie couldn’t wait. The pair were planning on getting their mating license as soon as possible, they just needed to wait until they were far enough down the line that Eddie’s venom would begin showing up in Buck’s blood. Once that happened they’d be able to get Buck a blood test and a venom test for Eddie, the results sent off to the courts alongside all of Buck and Eddie’s government IDs. 

Once that had been processed they’d get new IDs, marking them as mated, Buck’s also containing the fact that he was Eddie’s, as well as changing his surname to ‘Diaz’ and legally becoming Chris’ mom. 

But Eddie could worry about the legalities later. Right now he was just relaxing with his omega, providing the necessary aftercare for an initial mating bite.

Over the next few months Eddie’s venom would start to reknit Buck’s brain, helping heal the omega and giving him his life back. It would take a year and he’d have to retrain, but Buck would be back at the 118 and working alongside Eddie. 

But none of them knew that yet. 

So for now Eddie just cared for his omega, loving him with everything he had.