Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was a day like any other in the Bangtan Pack. At least for Head Alpha Kim Namjoon. He was just about to finish sorting through the last of the pack complaints, because of course the chickens at the Choi’s got out again due to some naughty pups, when he first heard it. A faint growl that sounded more threatening than it should be, especially in a close-knit pack like theirs. And then it came again, much louder this time. Namjoon all but sprang from his seat, sprinting to the source of the sound. He found himself running towards the edge of the pack, where the alphas and betas often left to hunt and gather. What he found left him speechless. There, growling at a group of betas, was a massive, black wolf covered in dirt and broken twigs, eyes looking menacing. When he sniffed the air, he found that it did not have a pack marker on it. A rogue. Such wolves were a rarity in their world, as it is almost impossible for a wolf to survive without a pack, yet there it was. A rogue as clear as day encroaching on their territory. To make matters worse, it took Namjoon a second before he smelt it. Untainted peppermint with alpha musk filled the air. And then it dawned him. “It’s in its’ first rut,” Namjoon mutters to himself, shock overtaking him as he takes in the scene before him. 

Another growl snaps Namjoon out of his trance, causing him to release an answering growl of his own, his sandalwood scent rising to the challenge. The rogue snaps its attention to Namjoon, as if just realizing another alpha is present. The ferocity of the growls increase tenfold, warning him to stay away.

“Clear the area immediately. I do not want anyone anywhere near here until I give the clear. That’s an order,” Namjoon commands without taking his eyes off the wolf for a second. 

The pack members in the area immediately spring into action, running as far as they can, until it is just the rogue and Namjoon left. Although Namjoon has made sure everyone is safe, he is not quite sure how to approach the situation. He could try to use his alpha voice, but he thinks it would be futile since this wolf is not of a pack. Instead, he makes the split second decision to shift, ready to defend the pack if necessary. In his place, now stands a massive grey wolf with gleaming red eyes and long, sharp fangs. He is easily the bigger of the two wolves, and he can see the other wolf realizes that as well. He begins to circle the wolf in an attempt to assess the situation while asserting dominance. What he finds, though, is that the situation may not be as it seems. The rogue keeps growling, making itself as threatening as possible, snapping its teeth every now and then. But it doesn’t take long for Namjoon to see the slight tremble in its legs. It’s scared, Namjoon realizes. He lets out warning growls again, hoping the rogue will just walk away. But it seems it is too deep in rut, as all he gets is snarls in return. That makes Namjoon stand on high alert. Even if the rogue is scared, Namjoon can’t have an alpha in rut like this so close to his pack. After assessing the wolf one last time, Namjoon pounces on the alpha. He expects a fight but finds the rogue to be woefully inexperienced. It takes less than a few minutes for him to pin down the other wolf belly up. From this position, Namjoon can see it is indeed a male alpha. The growls become louder and louder, but he isn’t able to escape Namjoon’s hold. Namjoon begins to find it almost endearing, like he’s pinning an unruly pup. He continues to assess the alpha, finding the growling amusing, when he smells it. A sour undertone now mixing with the rogue’s peppermint scent. If Namjoon thought the rogue was scared before, he is downright terrified now. But of course, the rogue refuses to let that show, continuing his attempt to look menacing. Namjoon huffs at the wolf. If he was human right now, he’d be downright chuckling. The rogue momentarily stops growling in confusion, almost tilting his head. Namjoon sees his opportunity then. Now, Namjoon would like to say that what he did next was the only choice he had, but he knew that wasn’t true. Because the moment the rogue tilted his head, Namjoon dove for his neck. And before the rogue could protest, a settling nip was given on its scent gland. 

The reaction was almost instantaneous. The rogue settled immediately, going completely limp under Namjoon. It wasn’t common for alphas to nip other alphas. It was usually more reserved for pups who were misbehaving or mates who needed the calming effect. But Namjoon’s alpha thought it was the best course of action in this situation, so he trusted his instincts. Namjoon kept his teeth for a few seconds before releasing. When Namjoon moved back to sit on his haunches, he looked down to see the rogue staring back at him. And now that he was settled, Namjoon could really look. He took in the features of the wolf, but what caught his attention the most were the two onyx eyes that seemed to hold all the innocence in the world. They seemed to hold the galaxy in them, as if they were untainted by life’s cruelties. He knew that could not be true for a wolf that was forced to live on their own, and yet that’s the story they told. If someone had told him that this was the same alpha that was growling at him like a feral wolf just moments ago,  he wouldn’t have believed it for a second. A whimper snaps him out of his trance. The wolf begins to writhe under him, but not in the same manner as it was before. It almost seems like he’s trying to turn, but Namjoon refuses to let go of his hold on him. Another whimper escapes before he seemingly faints. Namjoon steps off the wolf and lets out a long howl. Immediately he sees his pack members, mainly the alphas come to the clearing and he begins to shift back. 

“Are you okay? Were you hurt?” Hoseok, his right hand, asks while simultaneously assessing for injuries, unbothered by the nudity. It was common in their pack so Namjoon thought nothing of it as he moved to take the spare clothes Hoseok brought him and put them on. 

“I am fine. No need to fret. Have some alphas move him to the hut near the stream. The one that is rarely used. Bring food, water, and clothes. You can use the ones from the donation pile. And have two alphas stationed at the door at all times.” 

“Namjoon, are you out of your mind? You are bringing a rogue INTO the pack. I understand you are our leader, isn’t this a bit much?” Yoongi exclaims. 

“You are right hyung, I am your leader, so you should know I would never harm the pack in any way. That being said, I am also not in the business of leaving newly presented, terrified pups in the forest when they could use a bit of care right now. It’s his first rut, so I expect it will just be agitated and sleepy. We will question him once his rut is over. Do I make myself clear?” Namjoon says with an air of authority. He doesn’t know if he’s making the right choice. But the innocence of those eyes almost haunt him, and he has never been known to turn away from someone in need.

“Yes Namjoon. We’ll have him shifted immediately,” Hoseok cuts in, and moves to help lift the wolf. He and Yoongi, along with some other alphas quickly move the rogue to the hut, wanting it done before he wakes up. Namjoon oversees that the required supplies are brought and two alphas are stationed at the door. He feels a need to linger, but shakes it off as unease from having a foreign wolf in his pack.

“Let me know when it is safe to talk to the rogue. I’ll be over for questioning,” and with that he leaves to retire for the night.

Three days pass before Namjoon is able to see the rogue again. He is informed in the middle of a pack meeting about the status of the wolf and adds it to his agenda for the day. A few hours later Namjoon makes his way to the hut where the rogue is. Two different alphas are stationed at the door this time, both bowing once they see him.

“Head Alpha Kim, as requested we have been guarding the door. There is nothing to report as he has been quiet since the end of the rut,” one of the alphas, Wooshik, informs.

Namjoon is actually quite shocked by this. He had expected the alpha to be hostile after being placed in an unknown environment. But he puts that thought aside for now.

“What about during his rut?” Namjoon asks, curiosity peaked.

“ From what we gathered, he remained in wolf form and mostly slept. If he was awake, he would mainly whimper, until he went back to sleep,” the other alpha, Hyungshik, supplied.

Now, Namjoon was even more baffled. It was quite common for an alpha’s first rut to be spent in two moods: aggressive and tired. Since the body was undergoing so many changes, all an alpha ends up doing is letting out their emotions or sleeping. So to hear the rogue, an alpha, whimpering was truly news to Namjoon. Nevertheless, he braced himself as he knocked on the door and let himself into the hut. He was going to get answers today.

When Namjoon walked in through the door, he was met with a sight to see. There, in the middle of the hut, was a man curled up on the mattress. And maybe man was an overstatement, cause the person in front of him couldn’t have been more than 20. But what really shocked him was what the boy was wearing. On him and around him were his clothes, or at least his former ones. Namjoon was known to be a big donator in the pack. He’d constantly donate his clothes as he wanted to be sure the less-fortunate pack members had the opportunity to wear nice things as well. Because of that, a majority of the donations were composed of his former things. And he can see the boy before him clearly had a preference for them. When Namjoon looks around, he sees all the other donated items have been shoved into the farthest corner of the hut with a cloth over them. Almost like their presence was being blocked out. Namjoon shifts his gaze back to the boy, who is now sitting up. He feels the wind get knocked out of him when he sees him. There, in front of him, sits the most beautiful person Namjoon has ever seen. Shoulder length wavy hair, pouty rose-pink lips, the cutest nose on the planet, and his eyes. Those big, innocent doe eyes stare at him as if they hold the world. And when he looks him over, he is practically drowning in Namjoon’s clothes. For some reason, Namjoon feels the beginning of a pleased rumble bubble in him, which he quickly tampers down. Namjoon honestly doesn't know where that reaction came from, or why he feels that towards this unknown wolf, , but he quickly composes himself as he needs to first assess if this alpha is a threat or not. Though, he already has a feeling he knows the answer to that.

“Welcome, my name is Kim Namjoon and I am the leader of the Bangtan Pack. I was the one you encountered when you found your way to the outskirts of my pack. May I ask what you were doing there?” Namjoon asks, keeping his voice as gentle as possible. Even if he could be a potential threat, something in Namjoon does not want to scare the alpha.

The alpha keeps staring at Namjoon. Namjoon is starting to think that maybe he isn’t versed in their language, when all of a sudden he finds the alpha bowing at his feet, trembling as he does.

“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to enter your pack. I honestly didn’t realize I even did. I am usually good about staying away from pack lines. Really, I am! But I started feeling dizzy and everything felt hazy and I didn’t realize where I was going and when I had a moment of clarity I was surrounded by a bunch of people and I got scared so I started growling, but I wasn’t going to hurt anyone. I SWEAR! I just didn’t want them near me, I thought they would hurt me and…” 

“Shh, shh, shh, shh,” Namjoon cuts off the nervous rambling, “Relax. First sit up for me.” Namjoon helps him back into a sitting position. He tilts his chin up, only to be met with glossy, scared doe eyes pleading with him to spare him. If it weren’t for the situation, Namjoon would have definitely cooed at him. He has a bad feeling that these eyes are going to be the end of him, but he decides he should first ease the alpha’s worries.

 “How about we start with this? What’s your name?” 

“Um J-jungkook…” Jungkook stutters, big doe eyes blinking at him.

Although Namjoon knows he shouldn’t, he can’t help but tease. “Is it J-jungkook or Jungkook?”

Jungkook lips form the tiniest pout when he says “Jungkook,” a bit more firmly this time. 

Namjoon can’t help how his eyes linger a hair or two longer on the pink, pouty lips in front of him. Only he knows the amount of self-control he exercises to stop himself from squishing this boy's cheeks to see more of that pout. But he shakes that thought as he proceeds with his questioning.

“Okay Jungkook. And how old are you?”

Jungkook looks a little sheepish at that. “I’m not exactly sure. I think 20. Maybe 21.”

“And how long have you been a lone wolf?” 

Jungkook’s scent sours a bit, as he looks down when he answers. “For as long as I can remember.”

Namjoon’s heart twinges as he hears that. He decides not to pry more, seeing how upset it makes him. 

“And do you understand what you went through these past few days?” Namjoon asks, wanting to see how much Jungkook knows.

Jungkook looks up for a brief moment before he starts tracing shapes on the floor. “Um, I think I went into a rut?” 

“Yes you did. Looks like you presented as an alpha. Though, I don’t know if you’re aware, but most presentations happen at 16. I can only assume you being a lone wolf contributes to your late presentation, but I would like it if our pack physician takes a look at you to make sure you're okay. Is that okay with you?” Namjoon asks, keeping his tone as gentle as possible. He didn’t want to make Jungkook uncomfortable if he didn’t want to meet other people yet.

Jungkook gives Namjoon a long look, almost seeing if he can trust him. Namjoon could not be sure what he saw as he timidly nods his head at Namjoon’s request, before he goes back to playing with the hem of his, or Namjoon’s former, pants. It draws his attention and reminds Namjoon of a curiosity he had and can’t help but ask- 

“Um, I was just curious but why do you only have these clothes with you while the others are tucked in the corner?” Namjoon all but blurts. For some reason, he really needed to hear Jungkook’s answer to this. 

Jungkook proceeds to furiously blush, turning the most gorgeous shade of pink. He sees the blush travel from his cheeks down his neck, and disappear into his shirt. Before he can contemplate where else it could have went, Jungkook speaks up.

“Um, uh, I was, uh, I was scared when I woke up in the h-hut. And when I saw the c-clothes there were a lot o-of scents and I felt overwhelmed. U-until I could pick up on this one. I had smelled it b-before so it made me less scared so I looked for that s-scent in the clothes and put a-all the rest away so I could f-feel more calm.” 

Jungkook was looking at him with big glossy eyes again, and Namjoon felt his heart breaking at that. He should have known too many foreign smells would have overwhelmed a newly presented alpha, though he is not sure why he felt the tiniest flicker of disappointment that Jungkook wasn’t actively seeking his scent, rather looking for familiarity.

“Jungkook, I am so sorry. I should have realized how overwhelming it would have been for you to be exposed to so many new smells at once. I should have been more careful when handling this. But you have my word, I will make sure something like that doesn’t happen again.” 

Jungkook's eyes go wide at that. “No, no, please don’t apologize. The fact that you willingly sheltered me even though I could have been a threat to your pack already shows me what kind of person you are. And I am very thankful it was you who found me instead of anyone else.” Jungkook blushes again at the last statement, unable to look at Namjoon for more than a few seconds.

“I’m glad my pack found you too. I can only imagine what would’ve happened if you ended up elsewhere.” The mere thought of something happening to this baby alpha had him almost growling, because he is innocent. That’s it, for no other reason of course. “Since your rut is over, how about we take you to the physician now? That way we can get it out of the way sooner.”

Jungkook hesitantly nodded, seemingly wanting to trust Namjoon fully, and the two of them made it over to the pack physician’s hut.

Chapter Text

As they made their walk, Namjoon tried to make small talk. He found out Jungkook learned to speak by hearing conversations of gatherers and would practice what he heard on his own. Namjoon, for some reason, felt incredibly proud seeing how intelligent the wolf before him was. No sooner than later, they were at their destination. 

“Jimin-ah are you in?” Namjoon called out.

“I’ll be there in a minute. Just finishing up a paste,” he hears from the back. 

Namjoon turns towards Jungkook, “Why don’t you sit on the bed? That will make it easier for Jimin to check on you.”

Jungkook dutifully heeds Namjoon’s words and gets on the bed. He looks around the hut in wonder, taking in the various instruments and medicines he sees lying around. He sits as still as possible, almost scared of being scolded if he touched anything. Soon enough, a visibly pregnant omega comes from the back to see what his dear pack leader needed.

Namjoon greets him with a side hug. “Jimin-ah! How are you? Are the pups giving you trouble?” 

“Please, it’s Hobi Hyung’s kid. Do you understand just how much energy it has? It is always kicking or turning or moving. I swear if I didn’t love him and Taehyung so much, I would’ve killed him ages ago for doing this to me,” the omega dramatically regales. 

“Speaking of which, how is he? He’s two months behind you, so I’m assuming less murderous,” Namjoon sheepishly asks.

Jimin smirks. “If you think my pregnancy has been bad, then you can’t even imagine him. But that’s what Hobi Hyung gets for knocking us both up at the same time.”

“Min-ah, you do realize you and Tae literally begged Hoseok to do that so you both could have, what was it, ‘twin pups guaranteed.’”   

Namjoon realizes the exact moment he should have kept his mouth shut, because Jimin looks at him like he’s about to tear him a new one.

“Anyway! I came here for an important pack matter. Jimin, meet Jungkook. He is the wolf we found by the border. I was wondering if you could assess him since he just had his first rut.” 

Jimin glares at Namjoon “This isn’t over Kim Namjoon,” before turning to Jungkook with the sweetest smile anyone has ever seen. “Hi, I’m Jimin and I am the pack physician. And… oh my moon, you’re a baby alpha! How cute ! I’m gonna take a look at you to make sure everything is okay. Cause if what Namjoon said is correct, then it looks like you presented quite later than usual. Is that okay?”

Jungkook, who has been watching the interaction between Namjoon and Jimin, starts to fidget a bit. He keeps looking at Namjoon, almost asking for reassurance with Namjoon answers with a kind smile.

“Jimin here may be full of of energy, but I can assure you you are in good hands,” Namjoon reassures. 

Jungkook still continues to look at Namjoon, before turning back to Jimin. He gives the tiniest nod, which gives Jimin the clear to start his assessment. Namjoon moves to give the boy some privacy when he hears the softest whimper. He turns to see Jungkook looking at him with his glossy, doe eyes again, almost begging him not to go. Not having the heart to turn him down, he stays in the room but tries his best to keep his eyes averted to allow for some semblance of privacy. 

About an hour goes by with Jimin running various tests and examinations on the boy. Namjoon has to say he is quite impressed that Jungkook is being quite obedient, seeing how it is his first interaction with someone other than Namjoon. He isn’t sure if it’s because Jimin is a pregnant omega or because Namjoon is there, but he’s glad everything is going smoothly. Jimin asks him to remove his shirt to examine his chest, and Namjoon’s curiosity gets the best of him. The sight he is met with nearly breaks his heart. Namjoon could tell Jungkook wasn’t that big for an alpha, but he didn’t expect him to be practically skin and bones. Various scars and wounds mark his belly, and he can only imagine what he has gone through. A wave of protectiveness overtakes him, which he quickly shakes off. What am I thinking? Namjoon isn’t sure of the answer, but he chooses not to dwell on it.  

All is going well until Jimin moves to collect a bit of blood from the boy. Startled at the needle, Jungkook almost leaps out of his seat, shaking from fear. He starts frantically shaking his head and whimpering, hands reaching for Namjoon. Jimin looks helplessly at Namjoon, unsure of what to do as he’s almost never had this issue others, especially an alpha. Alphas always tried to act more macho and tougher than they were, so Jimin would never have an issue examining them. Jungkook, however, seems to be an anomaly that both of them can’t wrap their head around. 

“Jungkook, it’s okay. He just needs a little bit of blood. It’ll just be a small pinch,” Namjoon reassures with a small smile.

However, Jungkook still looks quite apprehensive, staring at the needle like it will eat him. Soon, gentle sandalwood begins to fill the air as Namjoon unconsciously releases calming pheromones. Jimin shoots him an incredulous look at the act, which has Namjoon looking confused as well. It is only then he realizes what he is doing and quickly reels his scent. However, the effect is instantaneous as Jungkook calms down immediately and enters almost a daze. Jimin, though extremely and thoroughly confused by the situation, continues with the task at hand, finding no further issues. Once he’s done, he lies Jungkook down to come down from the scent high he just went through, and pulls Namjoon to the side.

“Now, what the hell was that Kim Namjoon?” Jimin almost scream-whispers, not wanting to disturb the alpha in the bed.

“I-I don’t know. I didn’t realize I was doing it. I swear!” 

“But how did that even happen? Only mates are supposed to be able to calm each other with their scents,” Jimin ponders while pacing, trying to wrap his head around what’s going on.

“I don’t know! He said my scent makes him less scared since I was the one who nipped him-”

“You nipped him?” Jimin’s eyes go wide. 

“Well yes, he was getting aggressive because of his rut-”

“YOU NIPPED HIM WHILE HE WAS IN RUT?” If Namjoon didn’t know any better, he’s pretty sure Jimin was about to pop a vein. 

“YES! Why do you keep yelling? That was the only choice I had. Why? Is there a problem?” Namjoon starts to get nervous.

Jimin looks at Namjoon, then Jungkook, then back at Namjoon. He seems to be pondering for quite a while, until he lets out a sigh.

“I’m not sure of how accurate I am when I say this, but it looks like his wolf has formed a bond with yours. Alpha-alpha bonds are quite rare in of itself, almost non-existent, but my assumption is since he was a lone wolf for so long, his wolf latched on to the first safety net it saw. And since it has, your wolf in turn is trying to provide that safe space for him, hence the pheromones.” 

Namjoon looks a bit taken aback by this. “So are we mated then?” He asks, not sure of what he wants the answer to be.

“No, you’re not. If my assumption is correct, once he starts to feel safe here, the bond should dissolve since there will be no ‘threat’ around. He is staying right?”

Namjoon tries to linger on the flicker of disappointment that shoots through him. Why would he be disappointed if he wasn’t mated to Jungkook? He decides not to linger on that. Instead he chooses to answer Jimin.

“I don’t know. It’s up to him. I haven’t brought it up yet. I was too focused on wanting him checked first. Speaking of which, how is he?”

Jimin softened a bit at that. “He’s actually perfectly fine. Just very malnourished, but nothing that some good food can’t fix. Though, since he was late to present, I expect his ruts to be quite irregular the first year. Once the first year is over, he should hopefully adjust to the two times a year schedule.” 

Namjoon nods his head at that, seemingly understanding. He is mentally preparing a list of things Jungkook might need when he hears some shuffling across the room. He looks to see Jungkook sitting up, looking around, almost confused.

He lets out a tiny yawn that melts Namjoon’s heart. Jimin shoots him an amused look, but he chooses to ignore it.

 “What happened? Did I fall asleep?” Jungkook asks while rubbing his eyes. This boy was not going to be good for Namjoon’s heart.

“Awww the baby alpha is up! You got a little scent drunk and fell asleep. But don’t worry, I did everything I needed to do. From what I can tell, you just need to eat lots of good food, otherwise you’re okay. The only thing is your ruts are going to be a little irregular this first year since you presented so late, but I anticipate them becoming regular after that. Do you have any questions?”

Jungkook timidly shakes his head and makes to get up. He gets dressed and thanks Jimin, as he leaves with Namjoon in the direction of the hut. Once there, he turns to look at Namjoon while fiddling with his sleeves.

“Thank you so much for everything! I will never forget your kindness.”

“Of course Jungkook-ah. I’m just glad you weren’t alone when going through such a life changing event.”

The two stare at each other a bit before Jungkook looks away, cheeks flushing a little.

“Um, I guess I better head out soon. I want to be able to cover as much ground as I can while it’s still light outside.” 

Namjoon can’t help but furrow his eyebrows at that. “What are you talking about?”

Jungkook seems to find the ground entertaining at that moment when he says “I-I’ve overstayed my welcome. I am sure the pack w-won’t like a r…rouge roaming their pack for so long. I should l-leave as soon as I can.” 

And Namjoon is not sure why, but he does NOT like those words, at all. He doesn’t even realize his eyes flicker red when a resounding “NO” escapes his mouth from the depths of chest.

Jungkook’s eyes snap up to meet Namjoon’s, looking slightly scared and something else Namjoon can’t put his finger on. Namjoon seems to gather his bearings as he quickly shakes out of whatever headspace he went into.

“I-I mean no, you don’t have to. There is plenty of space in this pack. Actually, this hut hasn’t been used in ages, so we can definitely fix it up a bit for you to be able to live here. And I’m sure the pack would love to get to know you. You’re quite c-cute.” Namjoon’s cheeks flush bright red at his own words. Jungkook isn’t faring any better and the two seem to fall into another silence at his words, though this time it doesn’t seem as awkward. After some time, Namjoon breaks the bubble.

“So will you stay?” he asks with poorly-concealed hope in his voice.

Jungkook gives a tiny nod with the tiniest smile, and Namjoon feels like he ascended to cloud-nine just from seeing it. 

“Are you ready to meet the pack now? We don’t have to if you’re not comfortable yet, but I promise they are quite friendly.”

Jungkook seems to ponder Namjoon’s words. “Will you stay with me please? I don’t want to face them alone.”

Namjoon melts at his words. “Of course I will. What kind of alpha leaves a baby to the wolves?”

Jungkook seems to pout at his words “I’m not a baby,” and Namjoon finds his gaze lingering a little too long on those petal pink lips.

Snapped out of his daze, he quickly leads the alpha to the dining hall where the pack is gathered for brunch. Along the way, Namjoon uses the opportunity to explain how the pack works, assuming Jungkook did not know.

“We gather for at least one meal a day, usually dinners. On Sundays, we switch it to brunch to allow people to spend the evening with their families. In terms of dynamics, all ranks are treated equally and there is no discrimination of any kind that is tolerated. Apart from that, we aren’t a very strict pack, so long as you do not harm others or yourself. Any small things I’m sure you’ll learn along the way. Do you have any questions?” 

“Um no, not at the moment, but I’ll make sure to ask you if I do.” Jungkook answers with a small smile.

They make it to the dining hall, but just as Namjoon is about to open the door, he sees Jungkook shaking like a leaf next to him. He quickly moves to his side, ready to comfort the scared alpha.

“Hey, it’s okay. We don’t have to do this if you’re not ready. No one will blame you.” 

Jungkook fidgets with his sleeves again, contemplating Namjoon’s words.

“Would you like me to hold your hand?” Namjoon gently asks. 

At that Jungkook seems to perk up incredibly, nodding his head like a little pup. Namjoon at this point feels he deserves an award from the amount of coos he has held back because of this boy. 

Namjoon chuckles as he holds out his hand, which Jungkook latches onto like a lifeline. Together, they walk into the dining hall, with Jungkook latched onto Namjoon’s back like an octopus. The entire pack turns their eyes on the two alphas as they make their way to the front of the hall, where the head alpha sits. 

“Good afternoon everyone! I hope everyone is enjoying their meal. I just have a quick announcement to make. Today, we will be welcoming a new pack member. I request everyone to give a warm welcome to Jungkook,” he announced with a wide smile. 

Jungkook peaked out from behind Namjoon which earned him a round of applause from the pack. The reaction seems to ease his nerves a bit as he bravely steps out to properly greet the pack.

“H-hello everyone! My name is Jungkook. Please take care of me,” he says as he bows. He can hear a chorus of coos as he stands, the loudest he’s pretty sure coming from Jimin.

After introductions are done, Namjoon leads Jungkook away from the front to a table on the side of the hall. There, he finds four sets of curious eyes and one very familiar one set on him.

“Jungkook, we meet again!” The very pregnant jumps up to give him a hug.

He stays frozen for a bit, which doesn’t seem to deter Jimin one bit. He enthusiastically turns to the table to introduce Jungkook.

“Everyone THIS is the baby alpha I was talking about. Isn’t he adorable ? Jungkookie, this is Hoseok and that’s Taehyung, my mates. The cat-looking one is Yoongi Hyung, and the one next to him is Seokjin Hyung.”

Of course, this seems to be all the introduction needed as Jungkook finds his hands full of another heavily pregnant omega.

“It’s so nice to meet you! Jimin wouldn’t shut up about you ever since he came back from the clinic,” Taehyung says with his boxy smile. 

Jungkook seems to be figuring out how to respond, not used to this much interaction. It seems like Hoseok senses this because he quickly cuts in.

“Sorry Jungkook, they don’t mean any harm. They’re just very excited to have you here. We haven’t had new pack members join in years,” Hoseok explains. “Plus, their pregnancy is making them a bit over-nurturing so bear with it a bit, yeah?”

“Jung Hoseok, are you implying our emotions are only because of our pregnancy and not because we actually care ?” Taehyung all but yells.

Jimin also turns to give him a sharp look, and Hoseok looks about two seconds away from running in fear. He turns to his fellow alphas for help, and it looks like Seokjin takes pity on him and diverts the attention back to Jungkook.

“It’s nice to have you in the pack Jungkook. Please feel free to call us hyungs. I’m sure all of us, especially Jimin and Taehyung , would love to help you settle in,” he says with a kind smile.

That seems to be enough to distract the omegas because before they know it, they are back to fussing over Jungkook. They make sure Jungkook gets enough food to eat (maybe a bit too much), and help give him a crash course on alpha dynamics. Namjoon, in all this, sits on the sideline watching Jungkook easily blend in with his friends. He can feel the satisfaction of having Jungkook being a part of the pack rumbling in his chest. After some time talking, Jungkook seems to be enjoying himself. Though he doesn’t talk much, he quietly enjoys the group's banter and even laughs at a few jokes. Namjoon’s heart flutters when he sees his eyes crinkle and nose scrunch from one of Jimin and Taehyung’s antics. After brunch is over, Yoongi decides to cut in. 

“Jungkook-ah if you’d like, we can bring you to where the alphas train with us tomorrow if you’d like,” Yoongi offers.

At that Jungkook looks a bit startled, unsure of what to say. He looks to Namjoon again for some guidance. 

“I’ll be there too for a bit, don’t worry. I’m sure the other alphas would like to have you there as well.”

At that, Jungkook seems to relax a bit. He turns to Yoongi to give him a small nod, which earns him even more coos. He seems to get flustered again, so Namjoon decides to swoop in and save him. 

“Okay, I’m going to drop Jungkook back at his hut. I’ll see you guys tomorrow.”

They say their goodbyes to the group and make their way back to what will now be Jungkook’s home. 

“Take a proper look around the hut for me. It should be in good condition, but if anything needs fixing. Let me know immediately. We do need to get you more clothes though. Wait here, I’ll be back.” And before Jungkook can say anything, Namjoon is practically running off in the direction of his own hut.

About 15 minutes later, Namjoon comes running back with an arm full of clothes. 

“I didn’t know what you’d like to wear, so I bought a variety,” Namjoon proudly says.

“O-oh Namjoon-ssi this is too much. I can’t possibly accept this. I had a bit of clothes from what was given initially. Now that I’ve met everyone, I think my wolf will be a bit more willing to try and wear the other clothes that I hid, haha.” 

Once again, Namjoon feels the intense discomfort that washes over him at the thought of Jungkook wearing clothes that were not his. He feels a rumble start in his chest at the thought of Jungkook being surrounded by another’s scent, but quickly tampers it down.

“No, no please take it. I insist. You said my scent is c-comforting. So it’s best if you c-continue to use clothes that were mine until you are fully assimilated in the pack.” Namjoon prayed that Jungkook did not see through his flimsy excuse, though he himself could not figure out why he was so adamant on this.

“O-ok. I will. Thank you again Namjoon-ssi, truly for everything,” Jungkook said with his widest smile yet. 

Namjoon was pretty sure he was looking at the human embodiment of a bunny, with his teeth peeking out and nose scrunching as he smiled, and was already devising ways to see that smile again.

“OF COURSE! I mean, of course. We’re glad you’re here. And please call me hyung. No need for formalities.” 

“Ok, h-hyung,” Jungkook shyly said with a blush, and Namjoon realized he really needed to leave before he did something stupid. He hopes the bond between them settles soon so he could stop being weird around Jungkook.

“Well, um, I gotta go. You know, pack duties and all, haha. Have a good night Jungkook!” Namjoon says, as he all but runs away from Jungkook, again, before turning back to give the clothes that were still in his hands. Now, it seems it is his turn to blush as he hands over the clothes, gives a quick wave, and runs away again. Yeah, he really needs this bond to settle. Soon . 

Chapter Text

The next day, Namjoon picks up Jungkook to take him to the pack training grounds. When Namjoon knocks on the door, he is greeted with a sleepy Jungkook rubbing his eyes while looking at Namjoon. He looks so cozy and warm that Namjoon feels the urge to wrap him in a blanket and tuck him back into bed. But alas, duty calls.

“Good morning Jungkook! I would ask if you’re ready to go but I see maybe not, haha.” 

At that, Jungkook’s eyes go wide and he quickly apologizes. Before Namjoon can say anything, he quickly closes the door. He emerges a few minutes later, this time in a change of clothes. It looks like he had listened to Namjoon’s suggestion as he wears one of Namjoon’s shirts, pants and old boots Namjoon gave him the day before. Namjoon feels the waves of satisfaction take over him, happy that Jungkook was covered in his sce- CLOTHES. His clothes. Of course, nothing else. The two head out towards the training ground, where they find Seokjin, Yoongi, and Hoseok, along with the other alphas of the pack. Hoseok seems to be doing push ups, while Yoongi is correcting Seokjin’s form. But if Namjoon is being honest, it really doesn’t need any correction. But he can only help his oblivious friends so much. As the step onto the grounds, the others seem to finally notice the two. 

“Morning Jungkook! Glad you could make it. So, this is where we train. If you want, you can just watch today, and if you feel up for it, you can start tomorrow,” Hoseok offers. 

Jungkook seems to relax at that, seeming not ready to join the other alphas. It doesn’t take a genius to see he was much smaller than the other ones, and can see how intimidated he is. 

“Don’t worry Jungkook-ah. We never force anyone to do anything they don’t want in the pack. If you also find it’s not for you, that’s okay too,” Yoongi offers with a kind smile.

“Does this mean I get to sit out too? You know all this training nonsense isn’t for me Yoongichi,” Seokjin pouts at Yoongi. It’s amazing how red Yoongi gets at Seokjin’s remark.

“You’re an exception,” Yoongi mutters before he quickly escapes to the other side of the training ground. 

“Ugh I swear, I am better in the kitchen anyway. Can’t I be excused too, Namjoon?” Seokjin asks,

“Hyung, I told you it’s up to Yoongi Hyung. He was your assigned mentor, so he gets to decide if you stay or not.” 

“Ugh! That’s so dumb. If that’s the case, then I’m NEVER going to be free!” Seokjin fake cries. 

In all honesty, Seokjin is actually very athletic and has proven that many times. And he knows if he sincerely asked Yoongi, he could be free from training. But neither one seems to want to acknowledge the real reason they're both here. But Namjoon decides his hard headed friends will come around when they want to. Afterall, he knows why they are so hesitant to move forwards. Such a life changing decision can’t be taken lightly. Instead, he turns his attention back to Jungkook who has been absorbing the whole interaction. Namjoon leads him to an area where he can sit and watch. 

 “Alright. Alphas at attention,” Hoseok calls out, with Yoongi at his side. 

All the alphas move to stand in formation, Namjoon included. He doesn’t technically have to be here since he completed his training ages ago. But he wants to make sure Jungkook doesn’t get uncomfortable around all the new people. Training, commences with a series of drills and various tasks. At some time, Namjoon peaks over to see how Jungkook is doing. What he finds is Jungkook’s undivided attention on him, almost like he’s absorbing all of Namjoon’s movements. Now, if after that, Namjoon picks up one or two extra sacks to be moved which causes his biceps to strain, that’s because he’s trying to be as efficient as possible. Or if he takes his shirt off to do sit ups and push ups, it’s only because it’s hot. Yes, that’s the only reason. Absolutely has nothing to do with a certain doe-eyed man watching his every move. Not at all. And if he receives incredulous looks from Hoseok, Yoongi, and Seokjin, he chooses to ignore those as well.  

Training ends with Hoseok asking the group to shift into their wolf forms and asking the group to hunt for a small animal. It helps create efficiency amongst the hunters while replenishing pack supplies. Some time goes by, with the alphas returning one by one, adding their kills to a pile to be taken to the kitchen. Once everyone has returned, Hoseok considers the training over. The alphas leave one by one, leaving only Jungkook, Hoseok, Seokjin, and Yoongi behind.

“W-wait, Hoseok hyung. Namjoon hyung isn’t back yet,” Jungkook timidly says, though a bit of worry bleeds into his voice. Hoseok looks around to see he is indeed not here.

“You are right Jungkook-ah. I wonder where he went, though I’m assuming he got called into a pack duty. No need to worry Jungkook-ah, it happens.”

Before Jungkook can respond, a massive grey wolf emerges on the field, dragging something with him. As he gets closer, they see what it is: a deer. Namjoon proceeds to pull the deer until he is near Jungkook. He places it in front of Jungkook, and steps back to shift. He stares at Jungkook, almost waiting for his approval. Jungkook looks at him a bit confused, while Seokjin, Yoongi, and Hoseok stare at Namjoon, eyes wide and mouths dropped, stunned by what is happening. 

“Namjoon-ah, did you just present a deer to Jungkook?” Seokjin all but exclaims.

Namjoon seems to realize what has happened in that moment and quickly flushes an alarming shade of red. 

“NO! No, I wasn’t. I was just s-showing Jungkook the types of kills that we usually get in the p-pack. I was going to go for a squirrel I saw, but saw this deer instead and just decided ‘Why not?’ Are you telling me if you saw a deer over a squirrel you wouldn’t go for it instead? And plus I can’t just put it on top of the pile. It will squish all the other game. So I put it off to the side and Jungkook happens to be there but it is part of the pile. I mean where else would it go…” Namjoon rambles a mile a minute.

“O-oh I see. Thanks for showing me Namjoon hyung. I actually used to survive off of smaller games in the woods since I wasn’t big enough to go after the larger ones. But now that I can see you do it, I want to try to! Maybe someday I can also hunt a deer!” Jungkook exclaims, excited about the prospect trying new things he couldn’t before.

Though Jungkook seems to buy Namjoon's explanation, Seokjin, Hoseok, and Yoongi look far from convinced. Seokjin still looks incredulous, Hoseok is a mix between scandalized by Namjoon and endeared by Jungkook, while Yoongi shoots him a look that screams Seriously?. Thoroughly embarrassed, Namjoon quickly excuses himself saying he has pack duties to attend to and all but bolts out of there. He spends the rest of the day avoiding the others and Jungkook until it’s dinner time. Since he can’t avoid pack dinner, he ends up begrudgingly going, hoping no one brings up the incident from training. When he gets there, he finds his usual group of friends sitting together, chatting away. All is fine until he catches the attention of one of the omegas.

“Namjoonie hyung! You came! We were starting to wonder where you were,” Taehyung excitedly chirps. 

He gives his greeting and goes to sit down in his usual spot. It doesn’t seem like anyone is going to say anything, so proceeds to start eating, But of course, that was his wishful thinking. 

“Oh my, this DEER is just SO good today. I wonder who caught it,” Jimin starts.

Namjoon all but chokes on his broth at his words. 

“A little birdie told me it was our dear pack alpha who went all the way into the woods to get it." Taehyung chimes in, suddenly turning to Jungkook. "Did you know the deer aren’t usually near our pack during this time of year? One would have had to go really out of their way to find them,” he adds with a mischievous smirk. 

Namjoon can feel the heat creeping up his neck, embarrassment flooding him. He starts to shoot death glares at the two omegas, but he knows once they start, nothing is going to stop them.

“Oh Taehyungie, doesn’t it remind you of the days when Hobi Hyung would hunt deer for us? How romantic!” Jimin reminisces.

At that, Jungkook perks up, confused by what Jimin meant.

“But Jimin hyung, why would Hobi hyung only get it for you and Taehyung hyung? Wouldn’t he be hunting for the pack?” Jungkook innocently asks.

“Oh my moon! You don’t know what it means for someone to present their hunt? Basically it is…”

“PARK JIMIN!” Namjoon shouts. 

Jimin and the table look at Namjoon wide-eyed at that. Hoseok’s eyes flash red briefly, protectively shifting in front of him, ready to defend his mate if needed. Namjoon seems to realize what he did and quickly tries to rectify the situation.

“... and friends. I just wanted to say I’ll be leaving on a pack trip tomorrow and will be back in a month. Yoongi will be in charge while I am gone. I would choose Hoseok, but I’d rather you use any time you have for your mates. I ask that you all look after Jungkook please, since I trust you guys the most.” 

Now, what they don’t need to know is that Namjoon wasn’t supposed to leave until the day after, But what’s one day earlier? One of the other packs is running into issues with their neighboring packs, and requested Namjoon’s presence to act as a mediator. He finds himself both hoping it does and doesn’t take long. He wants to run away in embarrassment, but leaving the pack alone for so long makes his heart ache. The pack, definitely the pack. Definitely not the newest addition to the pack. Everyone seems taken aback by this news, but understand. It’s not the first time he’s had to leave like this. But of course, a certain baby alpha isn’t aware of this. 

“Hyung, you’re leaving for a MONTH? Do you really have to be gone for that long?” Jungkook pouts a bit when he asks. 

Namjoon looks like he’s three-seconds away from calling off the entire trip. Who cares if two packs are about to go to war? I have the cutest baby alpha I need to take car-NO . That is exactly why he needs to go on this trip. He needs to stop these feelings immediately. He can’t have them for Jungkook. Not when the consequences are so grand. He wishes it was as simple as because Jungkook is an alpha. Nature simply could not be that kind. 

“You’ll be fine Jungkook-ah. Look, you have so many people to look after you. You won’t even realize I’ll be gone.”

Jungkook seems to want to protest at that, but decides to return his attention to his food. Though, his appetite seems to be less than it was before. After dinner, Namjoon walks Jungkook back to his hut. The two seem to linger outside of Jungkook’s dinner, not wanting to be the first to leave.

“Namjoon hyung, you promise it’s only a month right?” Jungkook asks, wide doe eyes on display.

Namjoon is quick to promise “Yes, Jungkook-ah. I’ll be back before you know it.”

Jungkook seems to look down at that. “Have a safe trip hyung. I-I’ll miss you,” he says as he locks eyes with Namjoon again. 

Namjoon can’t seem to take it anymore. He goes for the safest thing he can do now, and leans in to hug Jungkook. He feels Jungkook go stiff, until he all but melts into Namjoon’s arms. Wow, he fits so perfectly, Namjoon thinks. He allows himself a moment before he pulls back. He reaches to cup Jungkook’s cheek. 

“I’ll miss you too. Be good while I’m gone, okay?”

Jungkook, who is flushed red, gives his tiny nod again. Namjoon pulls away and moves towards his hut. He hopes the distance helps settle whatever it is between the two of them.

Chapter Text

It turns out the distance did NOT in fact settle anything between them. As the month went on, Namjoon found himself missing Jungkook’s presence more and more. So much so, he starts craving him to the point he asks for fresh peppermint leaves to be brought to him to help with his “headaches.” The month feels excruciatingly long and begins to grate on Namjoon’s nerves. The two packs seem to refuse to see eye to eye on anything, and Namjoon was at his wit’s end. It had come to a point where he was desperate to go home. Namjoon devised a treaty that met halfway. He may or may not have half threatened to cut off trade with the packs if they did not agree, to which the respective head alphas quickly agreed. And just like that, Namjoon was finally on his way back to his beloved pack. Or more so, a certain alpha who was residing in said beloved pack. 

Namjoon made it back in record time. It was still day out, and judging by the sun, the alphas should be at their training. He quickly made his way to the field, not bothering to stop at his own hut to freshen up. He was a little too desperate to catch a whiff of the peppermint that had made a home in his senses. When he got to the training ground, he stayed a bit hidden, not wanting to be caught up in case the alpha wasn’t here. He could see the alphas were moving the sacks around. His eyes desperately searched the crowd for the one he was looking for. When he finally found him, he felt his breath escape his lungs. There stood Jungkook in all his glory, moving a sack on his back. His curly but trimmed hair hitting his shoulders. His cheeks look fuller and rosy, while his arms were more defined. It seemed his chest became more broader, but his waist remained as dainty and petite as it was. And above all, he was still wearing the clothes Namjoon gave him. The realization almost knocked him off his feet. Not wanting to waste another second, Namjoon was about to come out of his hiding spot when something caught his eye. And, oh, he was about ready to commit murder. Because there in front of him was Kim Mingyu, an alpha in their pack, with his hands around Jungkook’s waist. It seemed Jungkook’s form was a bit off while picking up the sack, so the alpha felt the need to “help” adjust it. Namjoon would wholeheartedly disagree, seeing his form was perfectly fine, but what really set him off was that Jungkook didn’t shrug the alpha off. Instead, he gave him a warm smile as he thanked him, while the alpha’s hands lingered on his waist. And Namjoon wasn’t about to let this go on. He nearly ran out of his hiding spot, desperate to put an end to whatever was going on.

“Jungkook!” He nearly screamed as he made his way to them.

Jungkook turned his attention towards the sound to see Namjoon running towards him. It took him all of three seconds to throw the sack on the ground and run towards Namjoon as well. They met in the middle, where Jungkook all but jumped into Namjoon’s arms. 

“Namjoon hyung! You’re back!” Jungkook delightedly screamed, holding Namjoon in a death grip like he was afraid to let go.

Namjoon gently placed him back on the ground, arms still around the alpha as he looked back at Jungkook, bursts of sweet peppermint and sandalwood filling the air. It took everything in his power to not close his eyes and just bury his face in Jungkook's neck. 

“Of course I’m back. You didn’t think I’d stay away from y- the pack for any longer then I had to, right?”

“I know I’m just so, so glad you’re back hyung. You have no idea how happy I am.” And with that he hugged Namjoon again, burying his nose in his neck.

Namjoon looks over Jungkook’s shoulder to see Mingyu looking their way. He sends a smirk his way as he holds Jungkook tighter, staking his claim. Mingyu just rolls his eyes and goes back to his task at hand. Namjoon returns his attention back to Jungkook, who starts nosing at his scent gland. He feels shivers run down his spine. Before he can comment on it, he smells something shift. The peppermint is getting stronger, almost muskier. Namjoon tries to pull away only to find Jungkook whining at the loss and holding him closer. He really needs to pull Jungkook away, before he gets scent drunk again. When he finally gently pries Jungkook away from his neck, he’s met with glossy red eyes.

“Alpha…”

Namjoon realizes what is happening and quickly informs Hoseok, who is surprised to see Namjoon back, but doesn't have time to say anything as Namjoon quickly leaves to get Jungkook back to his hut. The task proves to be easy when Namjoon all but scoops Jungkook in his arms to carry him. Jungkook spends the entire walk back tucked in Namjoon’s neck, taking in his scent like it’s a lifeline. He goes to lie Jungkook on the bed, which proves to be a difficult task as Jungkook refuses to let go. Once again, Namjoon gently pries Jungkook off of him again, though all his instincts keep telling him to let Jungkook stay. As much as Namjoon wants to be with him, he refuses to do anything until he has Jungkook’s full and lucid consent. When he can understand the consequences of their coupling. He would never take away Jungkook’s right to make an informed decision. Though, his alpha seems to disagree, wanting to claw to the surface and take the alpha right then and there. Which is why Namjoon knows he needs to leave. Now. The intoxicating scent of peppermint keeps filling his senses, so he chooses to breathe through his mouth as he makes his way to the exit. Jungkook quickly grabs Namjoon’s hands.

“Alpha, no! Stay, please stay. I can be good for you. Look!” Jungkook pleads, voice coming out in broken pants.

He lets go of Namjoon’s hand briefly, and before he can make a run for it, he sees Jungkook turning onto his stomach then his knees. He lowers his head and arches his back. He bares his neck as he presents himself to the alpha, ready for the taking. Namjoon feels his mouth dry at the sight. An alpha was presenting to him, during his rut. 

“See alpha, I can be good. Please take me. Please, alpha, please.” Jungkook pleads, glossy doe-eyes staring back at Namjoon. Namjoon can feel his pants getting incredibly tight at the sight. He can see all the things he wants to do to the baby alpha. Where he could hold him, where he could kiss him, how he could make him writhe with his hands, his mouth, his- NO. No, he really, REALLY needs to leave.

“I’m sorry baby I can’t stay. I want to, trust me I do. But I can’t be here right now. I promise I will come to you when I can.”

And with that, Namjoon ran out of the hut, making sure to lock the door behind him. He can hear the desperate calls of  “Alpha” reverberating through the hut. He can hear Jungkook knocking on the door. Only he knows how much strength it takes to walk away, his heart tearing into pieces. He just hopes Jungkook will understand after. He really does.

Namjoon rushes to Jimin’s hut, frantically searching for the omega. 

“Jimin, Jimin-ah are you here?” 

“Oh Namjoon! You’re back. Hey, don’t think I forgot about that stunt you pulled at the dinner. You’re lucky we all love you or I would have had Hobi-”

“Jimin, I'm sorry, but I don’t have time. Please help me, it's Jungkook,” Namjoon pleads, desperate for the omega's help.

And with that the two rush towards Jungkook’s hut, with Namjoon explaining the situation along the way. He couldn’t go to anyone else as alpha scents would have agitated Jungkook, while an unmated omega was out of the question. Jimin was mated and pregnant, so Jungkook would not feel threatened or aroused by him. Namjoon chose to stay away from the hut, even though every cell in his body was screaming at him to go to Jungkook. Jimin quickly entered the hut and then promptly exited, making a beeline for Namjoon. Before Namjoon could ask, Jimin began tugging at his shirt.

“Park Jimin, what are you doing? I don’t think this is entirely appropriate…”

“KIM NAMJOON, do you want to help that boy there or not?” Jimin says with the sternest voice he could muster, hands on his hips and fierce glare in place.

Immediately Namjoon nods his head.

“Good, now give me your shirt, or so help me God I will rip it off of you with my bare hands.”

Quickly, and slightly terrified (Jimin could be quite scary), Namjoon gives Jimin his shirt, who all but runs back to the hut. Sometime later, Jimin exits again, looking exhausted but otherwise okay.

“I gave him your shirt to calm him down. When I entered, he was in absolute hysterics about how ‘Alpha didn’t want him.’ I told him alpha can’t be here but he’ll give you his scent. Speaking of which, I need you to get more of your things with your scent on them. It is the only thing that is calming him down.” 

The two make their way to back to his hut, while Namjoon ponders over what Jimin said. 

“But Jimin, you said the bond he and I had should settle with time. I even was away for a month. Why was it only stronger when I came back? I mean, he practically went into a rut after being in my vicinity for mere minutes, for moon's sake.” 

“Because I may have been wrong Namjoon. It’s very rare nowadays, but I don’t think you guys are bonded because he felt safe. I think he imprinted on you. Technically imprints can be one sided, which can dissolve over time. But if it’s returned, then it only increases the bond tenfold. Call it a super bond if you will. It’s just one step below mating for life. The only difference is that if you give it space, it can be dissolved. It will hurt like crazy, but it will end, while mating marks are permanent.” 

Namjoon felt his head going dizzy with information, but Jimin’s next words had him grasping for a lifeline.

“Which is to say, you’re in love with him, aren’t you?” Jimin looked up. It was less of a question, more of a statement. 

And Namjoon didn’t know what to say to that. He couldn’t possibly admit to Jimin something he hadn’t even admitted to himself. And yet, here he was. With no escape from the truth.

“I can’t Jimin. You know why I can’t,” Namjoon said, tone more defeated than he realized. 

“I know you make it seem that way, but from what I witnessed, it looked like it's going to be his choice to make. Not yours. So you should let him. I know you think he’s a fragile being, Namjoon hyung, but he’s a lot tougher than he looks. He clearly survived many years completely on his own with no pack to help him. Trust that he trusts himself and you, and possesses the ability to make his own decisions.”

Namjoon looks at Jimin, a bit glossy eyed. It was at times like these Jimin felt like his hyung, and not the other way around.

“I, I just don’t want to hurt him,” Namjoon let out in a tiny voice.

Jimin moved to give Namjoon a hug. At least as much as he could with his belly in his way.

“I know hyung, but take it from Yoongi hyung and Seokjin hyung. They were in the same boat as you, and look where they are now.”

“Seokjin hyung and Yoongi hyung mated?!” Namjoon momentarily forgets his own dilemma to ask about his friends.

Jimin looks like a deer caught in headlights, almost like he wasn’t supposed to say anything. 

“Uh, REGARDLESS, you did the right thing leaving Jungkook right now. He will understand once you explain everything to him, but ultimately it should be his choice if want that for himself, not just yours, okay?”

Namjoon nods his head at that as they proceed to move towards his hut. Jimin is right. Jungkook has the right to make an informed decision. It’s only fair Namjoon gives him the chance to do so.

Jungkook’s rut seems to last three days. In those three days, Jimin does everything in his power to make sure he is taken care of. Namjoon always stays near his hut when he can from a safe distance, never coming too close in fear of overstepping.

It’s at the end of the third day that Jungkook is finally able to join the pack for dinner. When he enters, Namjoon’s gaze immediately shifts to Jungkook, he and his wolf elated to see him. Though, it doesn’t look like Jungkook returns his sentiments, as he chooses to sit at another table, right next to Mingyu. Namjoon feels the rumble build in his chest at that. He is about to get up and march his way over there, when Jimin holds his hand firmly. 

“I know you had your reasons, and your reasons were right. But that doesn’t invalidate his right to feel hurt. He’s fresh off his rut. Give him some time to cool off.”

Namjoon understands where Jimin is coming from, but he also can’t stop the ache that makes its way into his heart at seeing Jungkook so far away from him. Especially when he gives tiny smiles to Mingyu, who tries to cheer him up. He can feel his alpha clawing in his chest, trying to escape, to get the offending alpha away from what’s his. But he sits there, eyes never straying from Jungkook. Jungkook does occasionally make eye contact with him, but then quickly looks away, as if the interaction burned him. He can’t even stand to look at me. Namjoon’s heart begins to ache even more. He just wants to desperately explain his side, that he had a valid reason to leave. To let him know he doesn’t want anyone else but him. Achingly so. The dinner ends, and much to Namjoon’s relief, Jungkook leaves alone. He waits a bit before he trails after him. Jungkook quietly enters his hut, while Namjoon waits a little away near a tree. He knows he should go back home, but being even a minute away from Jungkook feels like torture. So instead, he removes his clothes and shifts into his wolf form. He decides to spend the night there. If he can’t be with Jungkook, he can at least be near him right?

Namjoon wakes to the feeling of someone scratching him behind his ears. He’s not fully awake yet but the scratches combined with the scent of peppermint have him going belly up. He hears a gasp but then feels soft hands giving him belly rubs. Namjoon feels like he’s on cloud nine, tongue sticking out and tail wagging a mile a minute. He hears a familiar chuckle then.

“Who knew the big bad pack alpha is just an overgrown puppy?”

At that Namjoon’s eyes snap open, and the sight absolutely delights him. He sees Jungkook sitting next to him, softly smiling down at him. He can’t help himself when he gets up and all but pounces on him. Jungkook falls on his back as Namjoon licks his face, his neck, and practically anything within his reach. Jungkook starts giggling in delight, which only spurs Namjoon on even more.

“Okay… Okay I got it. I missed you too.” Jungkook says in between giggles. “Now get off me.”

At the words Namjoon starts whining, not wanting to be away from Jungkook. This only sends Jungkook into another set of endeared giggles. 

“I didn’t say it for you to leave. I meant get off so you could shift and change. Come hyung.”

With that, Namjoon leaves a few more licks, before getting off and following Jungkook into his hut. After he shifts and changes, Namjoon stands there a bit sheepish, as Jungkook seems to have lost his bravado as well, now that the human Namjoon is in front of him. 

“How long did you know I was out there? I thought I was well hidden, so I didn't think you would see me unless you were looking.”

Jungkook begins to fidget with his sleeves. “I knew you followed me h-home after dinner. I could smell you hyung. I d-didn’t say anything because I wanted to see what you would do. I didn’t expect you to shift and sleep outside.”

“I couldn’t do it, Jungkook-ah. I couldn’t leave. I hadn’t properly seen you in three days, and then when I did you were so close yet so far. My wolf was feeling really restless. I was feeling really restless. So I did the next best thing to be near you.” Namjoon keeps his gaze on the floor, afraid to look up. He couldn't stand to see Jungkook's face if he rejected him.

After some silence, Namjoon finally looked up and his heart clenched at the sight. He sees Jungkook looking at him with glossy eyes, that were getting glossier by the minute. Namjoon hated being the reason for them, but he promised himself that this will be the last time he ever lets that happen.

“T-then, why hyung? Why did you *hic* leave me like *hic* that? I needed you *hic* so badly. I even *hic* presented for you and you…” Jungkook started sobbing.

Namjoon didn’t even think twice before scooping up Jungkook and moving to the bed. He shifted him to his lap, as he tucked his face in a scent gland. He released calming pheromones as heart wrenching sobs kept escaping the alpha’s mouth. It took a few minutes before the sobs reduced to more pained whimpers. Once he felt Jungkook was more calm, Namjoon began his side of the story.

“Baby, I didn’t say no because I didn’t want you. Please never think that. I’m sorry we weren’t able to have this conversation before what happened. I can only imagine how rejected you must have felt in such a vulnerable moment. But I promise I had a reason for it.”

Namjoon peppered Jungkook’s face with tiny kisses, soothing his sides. Once he knew Jungkook was completely calm, he moved Jungkook away from his neck so that he could say the next part while looking at him.

“I left for two very big reasons. One was because we never talked about us before, my love. For one thing, we imprinted on one another." Jungkook's eyes went wide at that. "Jimin let me know the night you went into rut. He thought it was a bond born from safety, but it turns out it ran much deeper than that. And yes, we felt an attraction towards one another. But I would never forgive myself if I had taken you when you weren’t in a state to consent to anything. Those things are very important to me, Jungkook-ah, so I wanted to know how you felt when you were in your right mind.”  

He could see Jungkook’s demeanor soften at that. But before Jungkook could say anything, Namjoon continued.

“And another, maybe bigger reason is actually what would happen if I did. Even if we acknowledged our feelings for one another prior to your rut, I would still need you to know everything so you can make an informed decision.”

Namjoon let out a breath before continuing. Here goes nothing.

“Baby, do you know anything about the history of packs? And how many came to be?” Jungkook timidly shakes his head at that. He never had any formal education, so how would he know?

“Well many millennia ago, the first wolves evolved into more humanized versions. Eventually it led to the alphas, betas, and omega you know today. However, there had come a time where more alphas were being produced at a greater number. Society thought that there needed to be more alphas to provide and protect, and would often kill betas and omegas, since they were seen as ‘lower class.’ Eventually it got to a point where the alphas greatly outnumbered the betas and omegas. So much so, alpha/alpha relationships were the norm. That was all fine, however the population was greatly dwindling and we were on the verge of extinction.”

Namjoon pauses at this part, wanting to make sure Jungkook was following. Jungkook, ever eager to learn what’s next, urges Namjoon to continue.

“Well nature’s way of correcting this was to take the existing alphas and turn them into omegas. Basically alphas who were knotted during their rut would undergo a transformation and end up as omegas by the end of it. It was said that it was painful, but by the end of it that alpha was a full omega. Though this was centuries ago, it still happens today. There is also a chance of it not happening since the population basically has evened out. So what I’m saying is, if we had spent your rut together, there was a high chance you could have changed as well.”

Namjoon looks back up again. Jungkook’s expression is unreadable, like he’s absorbing what Namjoon said. 

Namjoon looks away for a moment, nerves feeling on fire for this next part. He finally looks at Jungkook again when he gathers the courage to say the next part. “But if I learned anything in these past few days, hell this past month, is that I want you Jungkook. Desperately so. I want to court you, mate you, have a future with you. I was just scared that I would be taking something away from you if we did this, but someone wise told me that I shouldn’t make decisions for the both of us. You’re your own person too and are allowed to have a say too. And it’s okay if we’re never able to spend ruts together. That means little if it means I get to have you. And if you did want to spend them together, we could do it whichever way you want. I mean we are a pretty progressive pack, so I don't think the pack members would mind if the leader is an alpha or omega, because it’ll still be me at the end of the day and…” 

Jungkook cuts off Namjoon’s nervous rambling in the best way possible. It’s just a press of the lips, nothing more, but Namjoon is sure he is ascending to heaven. Jungkook pulls back, leaving Namjoon chasing his lips. Namjoon’s gaze lays firmly planted on Jungkook’s pink petal lips. Jungkook gently tilts Namjoon’s head so he could look him in his eyes. 

Jungkook gives a watery smile before he says “What on Earth did I do to deserve you Kim Namjoon?”

He rests his forehead against Namjoon's, both of them taking in each other’s presence. Then, Jungkook moves to hide himself in Namjoon’s neck.

“Namjoonie hyung, I’m too shy to say this to your face. But I would love to be your alpha, omega, or anything in between so long as I’m yours.”

Sandalwood explodes in the room as Namjoon makes sense of what Jungkook just said. 

“Are you serious baby? Do you really mean that?” Namjoon asks, wanting to confirm he heard right.

Jungkook nods from his place in his neck. He clutches on to Namjoon’s shirt a bit tighter when he says “I want you to court me, mate me, and if possible pup me. I want it all with you Kim Namjoon.”

Namjoon can’t take it anymore as he pries Jungkook out of his spot in his neck. Before Jungkook can whine at the loss, Namjoon’s lips are already on his. This time it’s not as soft as it was before. There is pure unadulterated need in this kiss. Namjoon’s one hand slides to his waist, while the other trails up his back. Jungkook encircles his arm around Namjoon, trying to bring even closer, if that’s possible. Namjoon swipes his tongue across his lips, but Jungkook doesn’t seem to understand. He’s new to all this, so he desperately tries to keep up with Namjoon. He wouldn’t be able to tell that this is Namjoon’s first kiss too, with the way he seems hell bent on devouring Jungkook’s lips. Namjoon grows desperate for entry, so he pinches Jungkook’s side, earning a gasp from the younger. Namjoon sees this as a way in, mercissely moving his tongue into Jungkook’s mouth. The first brush of tongues has Jungkook reeling, a quiet moan escaping his mouth. Desperate to hear more of those sounds, Namjoon trails his kisses down Jungkook’s face and neck, sucking bruises along the way, staking his claim. He finally reaches his scent gland, sucking on it hard. That earns him a long, drawn out moan from the younger, which spurs him on even more. He continues to suck on the gland until Jungkook’s scent all but disappears, leaving only sandalwood in its wake. A satisfied rumble escapes as kisses his way back to Jungkook’s lips. 

“Mine. All mine” escapes Namjoon as he lays his claim on every inch of skin available.

“Yours,” Jungkook answers, the satisfied rumble intensifying at his words. 

When Namjoon reaches Jungkook’s lips again, the intensity of the kiss greatly decreases. Quiet kisses are exchanged as words of affirmation are exchanged between the two. After a few more kisses, the two decide to lie down and take a short nap before dinner. They can talk more once they get up.

A few days pass after their loved filled confessions. Namjoon ends up taking his courting very seriously. He escorts Jungkook to and from wherever he needs to go. He spoils Jungkook in gifts, including new clothes. He takes Jungkook to get his ears pierced when the baby alpha pouted how he wished he could wear earrings. He brings him fresh game every morning at his doorstep. When it happened the first day, Jungkook had received it with a very confused look on his face. Namjoon had then shifted to explain the significance of the act, and how he was letting Jungkook know Namjoon was a good provider. He then proceeded to explain the significance of courting gifts in general, wanting to make sure Jungkook understood what was happening. By the end, Jungkook's cheeks were completely flushed red. He told Namjoon he appreciated the sentiment and understands why it is done. But he is also one person and can not finish a deer a day (because of course Namjoon would look for the biggest game possible). So, he asked if after acknowledging it, if it can be sent to the kitchen to be prepared. Namjoon was ecstatic about the idea, and it is safe to say the pack ate really well during Namjoon and Jungkook’s courtship. And if their friends made fun of Namjoon for it, well it was worth it since he got to hear his baby’s cute giggles.

Chaste kisses were exchanged between the couple, but nothing like the day they confessed. Namjoon wanted to wait until the courtship was over to move to the next level, to which Jungkook agreed. They both agreed that when Jungkook’s next rut would hit they would mate. Though, that didn’t stop Namjoon from scenting Jungkook daily. It was safe to say Jungkook had been mistaken for Namjoon more than once due to his scent alone. But he couldn’t complain. And Namjoon couldn’t help the satisfaction that rolled off him knowing everyone knew Jungkook was his. Especially a certain tall good for nothing alpha.

Chapter Text

Things went on like this for a few months. Everything seemed to be going smoothly. Jungkook was still going to his training, seemingly needing more time to get the hang of things. Namjoon still dutifully escorted Jungkook to and from wherever he needed to go, like the doting alpha he was. It was on one of these walks back to Jungkook’s hut, hand in hand after dinner, where Jungkook and Namjoon were watching the sunset. By the time they reached Jungkook’s door, it was completely dark, spare the moon’s beautiful light casting on the couple.

“I’ll see you tomorrow then my love,” Namjoon said as he placed gentle pecks on Jungkook’s hands and then his lips.

“I’ll see you tomorrow hyung.” Jungkook made to open the door, but quickly turned back to land a chaste kiss on Namjoon’s cheek. He practically ran into his hut after that, still too shy to initiate anything with his alpha.

Namjoon stood there for a few minutes, a giddy smile on his lips while he grazed the place Jungkook kissed with his hand, before he made to walk to his hut. Or at least he tried to.

Inside the hut, Jungkook felt himself getting warmer. He felt like someone had placed him near a hot spring. Jungkook swallowed, heat curling up his spine. He was already sweating, his muscles tense. He stripped down to nothing, curling into the center of his bed, the scent of Namjoon’s lingering sandalwood in the blankets grounding him. He felt the a whine bubbling in him, the sandalwood not enough. He wanted his alpha. Now. 

Minutes later, he heard the knock. 

“Jungkook, open the door.”

Jungkook all but leaped to the door.

“Alpha!” Jungkook whined as he all but threw himself at Namjoon. 

Namjoon catches him, keeping the two upright, while Jungkook tucked himself into Namjoon’s neck. Jungkook squeezed his eyes shut. He was shaking, sweat dampening his skin, his muscles coiled tight as his body fought itself. He wanted Namjoon, wanted to be touched, and wanted relief. He wanted Namjoon to take him right then and there. When Namjoon made to move himself to go back into the hut, a growl ripped from his throat, low and threatening, his body curling into Namjoon. His vision blurred, instincts blaring to claim, to possess, to have—!

“Shh, baby.” Namjoon’s voice was firm but calm, hands raised in a soothing gesture. “It’s me. We need to move into the hut, onto the bed.”

Jungkook knew that. But his alpha didn’t. His hackles were raised, his body trembling, teeth bared. He could feel the aggression buzzing under his skin, and didn't like that he wasn’t getting what he wanted. Despite everything, he still was an alpha afterall. And since this was his third rut, his more base instincts were coming into play, more than they did the first two times. Namjoon held his ground, gaze unwavering as he inhaled deeply. His own scent shifted, his natural dominance rising to meet Jungkook’s challenge, but instead of bristling back, Namjoon’s expression softened.

“You’re safe, baby,” he murmured, stepping closer. “You don’t have to fight me. I’ll give you everything that you want. You just need to listen.”

Namjoon moved to step away again. Jungkook’s lips curled back, a growl rattling in his chest. Jungkook’s alpha wasn’t convinced. His fingers twitched, nails digging into the fabric beneath him as another growl tore from his throat. His body was screaming at him to claim, to take, to dominate. And then—

Sharp teeth nipped against his throat, right where his scent gland met skin. Jungkook went boneless. His alpha submitted completely. The aggression drained from his limbs in an instant, his body shuddering as the tension snapped. His head tipped back, throat exposed, a deep, needy whimper spilling from his lips.

“Good boy,” Namjoon praised, voice rough, possessive. “There you go. Let me take care of you. Let me take care of what’s mine .”

Jungkook’s breath hitched, and the fight drained from him completely. He turned, pressing his face back into Namjoon’s throat, inhaling deeply. The steady, grounding scent of his alpha settled his nerves, making his entire body feel boneless with relief. He shivered, eyes blown wide. His cock throbbed between them, his body burning. He stayed pliant as Namjoon finally sat him down in his bed, eyes raking over every curve of Jungkook’s exposed skin.

“Alpha,” Jungkook gasped, fingers gripping Namjoon’s shirt. “Need you. Please.”

Namjoon cupped his jaw, thumb stroking over Jungkook’s parted lips. “I know baby I know. But I am going to ask you one last time. Are you sure? I know we talked about it before, but I need to hear it again.”

Jungkook nodded, still somewhat coherent. “Yes, yes, please—”

Namjoon smirked, eyes dark with hunger. “Such a needy thing.” He leaned down, scenting along Jungkook’s throat, his hold firm, unyielding. “Gonna make sure no one ever doubts who you belong to.”

Jungkook moaned, pressing closer, his body already melting into Namjoon’s touch. Namjoon exhaled shakily, his own control hanging by a thread, but he tightened his grip around Jungkook’s waist, pinning him in place. 

“I’ve got you, baby,” Namjoon promised, voice dark with intent. “I’m going to take care of you. No running this time."

Jungkook shuddered and nodded, pressing closer, fully ready to surrender. Namjoon wasted no time. He pushed Jungkook down into the mess of blankets, caging him in, his weight pressing down in the most intoxicating way. Jungkook whined, legs already spreading instinctively, body pliant and needy beneath him.

“So desperate for me,” Namjoon murmured, dragging his nose along Jungkook’s jaw. “My alpha, my needy pup."

Jungkook keened at the possessive words, fingers clawing at Namjoon’s shoulders. “Yours,” he whispered, voice breaking.

Namjoon growled in approval, pressing kisses along Jungkook’s throat, nipping at the sensitive skin. “That’s right. Mine.” His hands gripped Jungkook’s hips, rolling them together, the friction making Jungkook moan.

“More,” Jungkook whimpered. “Need—”

Namjoon silenced him with a searing kiss, swallowing every sound as he pushed Jungkook deeper into the bed, ready to give him everything he needed.

Namjoon’s hands were everywhere—soothing, claiming, worshipping. He mapped the curve of Jungkook’s waist, the dip of his spine, the tremble in his thighs as he spread them wider. His touch was firm, unyielding but careful, guiding Jungkook exactly where he needed him.

“You’re mine, Jungkook,” Namjoon murmured against his lips, rolling his hips with agonizing precision while pinning his wrists above his head. “You don’t have to hold back. Let go for me.”

Jungkook’s body arched, his hands fisting from pleasure as he let himself sink into the feeling—into Namjoon, the one person he trusted to see him like this. The need burned hotter, more insistent, his instincts roaring to be satisfied.

Namjoon’s grip tightens on Jungkook’s wrists, holding him down as the younger alpha writhes beneath him. Jungkook’s chest heaves, sweat slicking his skin as his rut haze fogs his mind, leaving only one thought—Namjoon. 

“Alpha—please,” Jungkook pants, voice rough with need. 

Jungkook groans, his hips rutting up, desperate for friction. His cock is leaking, trapped between their bodies, but Namjoon isn’t giving him what he needs yet. Instead, he’s dragging this out, keeping Jungkook on the edge.

“Alpha,” Jungkook gasps, his voice cracking. He wants to turn and present to Namjoon. But his hold on Jungkook is unyielding. Instead, he feels Namjoon’s hand find his cock, working him hard and fast. Little “ah, ah, ahs” as he quickly reaches his boiling point.

Namjoon grins, sensing Jungkook’s breaking point. He feels like he's going feral at the sight of the beautiful boy writhing under him. “That’s it. You can let go, baby.”

Jungkook barely has time to process as he feels his orgasm wash over him in waves. He is still hard and needy, but feels satiated enough for Namjoon to move and quickly get rid of his clothes. He makes his way back to the bed, hand once again wrapping around his cock, stroking him firmly. His back arches off the bed, a broken moan spilling from his lips. 

“More,” he begs. He needs it. Needs Namjoon to ruin him.

Namjoon shifts, positioning himself between Jungkook’s spread thighs. He runs his hands down the younger alpha’s trembling thighs, spreading them wider. “You look so damn pretty like this,” he murmurs before pressing a kiss to the inside of Jungkook’s knee, making him whimper.

“Please,” Jungkook chokes out, his cock twitching against his stomach, precum mixing with his cum against his skin. Namjoon hums, dragging his fingers down, teasing over Jungkook’s hole.

“We first need to get you nice and wet, baby.”

Jungkook should’ve known what was coming, when he felt the hot breath on his entrance. The sensation still leaves his head spinning. The first stroke of Namjoon’s tongue has him screaming out. Constant chants of “Alpha” escape his mouth as Namjoon continues to lick at his rim, groaning as he does.

“Fuck, you taste so good baby. I could do this all day,” before he continues to suck at his entrance like a starved man. 

Jungkook arches off the bed when Namjoon starts opening him with his tongue, leaving him a crying mess. Broken moans keep escaping him as he feels himself reaching his high. And just when he thought it couldn’t get better, he feels something else join along Namjoon’s tongue.

Jungkook feels the tension snap, cumming a second time, his body clenching around Namjoon’s tongue and finger, desperate for more. “Relax, baby,” Namjoon soothes, adding another and curling them just right, making Jungkook cry out. “You’re so fucking tight like this. Need you to open up for me.”

Namjoon doesn’t let up as he continues his ministrations. Jungkook whines through the sensitivity, rolling his hips down onto Namjoon’s hand and mouth, chasing the pressure, the stretch, the unbearable pleasure that builds with each slow thrust of Namjoon’s tongue and fingers. By the time Namjoon adds a third, Jungkook is trembling, desperate for his alpha to take him.

Namjoon licks his lips, savoring the taste, while pulling his fingers out despite Jungkook’s whimper of protest. “You’re ready, sweetheart,” he rasps, lining himself up. “Gonna take me so well.”

Jungkook tries again to present to the alpha, to be good to the alpha. His alpha. But Namjoon pins him down, wanting to see him face to face for their first time. And then he’s pushing inside, stretching Jungkook open, filling him in a way that makes Jungkook’s breath hitch. The burn is sharp, but it’s exactly what he needs. His fingers dig into Namjoon’s back, leaving deep scratches as he moans shamelessly.

“Fuck—you’re perfect like this,” Namjoon groans, hips rolling forward, pressing deeper. Jungkook sobs out a curse, his head tilting back, exposing his throat in pure submission.

Namjoon takes the invitation, his teeth sinking in lightly, just enough to remind Jungkook who’s in control. The sharp sting sends Jungkook over the edge, another orgasm ripping through him with an intensity that leaves him trembling beneath Namjoon, completely wrecked. His release coats his stomach, dripping down his to the mattress beneath them, but Namjoon doesn’t stop, doesn’t slow down.

Instead, he growls low in his throat, driving his hips harder, chasing his own pleasure. Jungkook can do nothing but take it, moaning brokenly with every deep thrust. Namjoon holds him down, keeps him open, forces him to feel every inch, every pulse of heat between them.

Jungkook begins to feel the beginning of Namjoon’s knot forming and feels the need rush through him all over again. “Please Alpha, please knot me. Please knot your Jungkookie,” almost pushing Namjoon over the edge. 

“You’re mine,” Namjoon growls, possessive, as he finally thrusts deep one last time, locking them together and spilling inside Jungkook with a shuddering groan. He holds Jungkook tight, panting against his shoulder, fingers gripping his hips as if he’ll never let go.

Jungkook is boneless beneath him, his mind hazy, body spent. He felt so incredibly full with his alpha’s knot and cum. He doesn’t think he’s ever been this satiated in his life. But when Namjoon presses soft kisses along his jaw and murmurs, “Mine,” something in his chest flutters.

Namjoon pulled back just enough to meet his gaze, eyes dark with something primal. “Say it.”

Jungkook’s breath came in ragged gasps. “Yours,” he whimpered. “Only yours.”

A growl of satisfaction rumbled in Namjoon’s chest before he surged forward, sinking his teeth into Jungkook’s neck, claiming him in a way that had Jungkook coming undone one last time.

Chapter Text

It was the next morning when Namjoon noticed the changes. The two, exhausted from the previous night’s activity, promptly fell asleep with Namjoon still inside Jungkook. Not that Jungkook would complain. At some point in the night Namjoon had shifted, attempting to pull out of his baby, but received unhappy grumblings and whines at the act. In retaliation, Jungkook clamped down, refusing to let Namjoon go, snuggling deeper into Namjoon’s chest when he felt the alpha wouldn’t move. 

Namjoon woke to some rustling on his side. He feels the weight missing from his chest and reaches out to find Jungkook not on his side of the bed. He looks to see Jungkook gathering various clothes and blankets, mainly his clothes and rearranging them on the bed. He can see Jungkook muttering to himself, the most displeased look on his face.

“Morning baby! You okay?” Namjoon asks in a slightly raspy voice.

Jungkook’s eyes shoot up at that, getting more and more teary by the minute. 

“Alpha! It isn’t right, it isn’t right!” Jungkook sobs, thick tears streaming down his face. 

Namjoon immediately jumps from the bed, moving to soothe his distressed mate. Mate. That’s right, Jungkook and him mated last night. Though he still needed his bite. He can’t find himself able to celebrate though since burnt peppermint keeps filling the little hut. Although if he’s honest, it was softer and sweeter, more spearmint than peppermint. Jungkook immediately moves to his scent gland, greedily inhaling the sandalwood scent. Namjoon feels the sorrow palpating through the bond, even though it’s one sided. 

“What’s not right my love? How can alpha help?”

Jungkook removes himself from where he was tucked in Namjoon’s neck. The next thing he knows he is taking every article of clothing and rubbing it against Namjoon's scent gland and placing it along the bed. He eventually starts handing the alpha the clothes to scent them himself, while Jungkook continues to arrange the clothes on the bed. It takes Namjoon the fifth article of clothing to realize what is happening. When Jungkook is done, he sits in the middle and looks at Namjoon, waiting for his approval. 

“Baby, this is such a beautiful… nest,” Namjoon carefully says, scared he’ll say something wrong.

However, the burst of fresh spearmint that fills the hut confirms his suspicions. It had been a nest after all. Jungkook extends his hand to his alpha, looking absolutely stunning as the sun rays filter in, reflecting off his milky skin. 

“Alpha come join me, please,” Jungkook politely asks, eyes shining like they hold the galaxies.

Namjoon feels his sandalwood scent burst with pride, getting to be the one invited into his beautiful mate’s nest. He wastes no time getting in, quickly moving to cuddle in the center of the nest. And as happy as Namjoon feels right now, he still wants to hear how Jungkook feels.

“My love, I want to ask you. Do you understand what is happening?”

Jungkook looks up at Namjoon at that, hands busy drawing patterns on Namjoon’s chest. The touch sends shivers up his spine.

“I’m becoming an omega aren’t I? I felt it this morning when my scent was a bit sweeter and I felt such an overwhelming urge to fix things, even though nothing was out of order.”

Namjoon is quite surprised at how calmly Jungkook is taking this. If it would have been him, he would have been freaking out, unsure of how to navigate this new role. 

“Can I be honest about something?” Jungkook asks, a bit hesitant. He looks to see Namjoon nod his head before he continues.

“I actually didn’t really like being an alpha. All my life, even when I was alone in the woods, I always used to wish someone could just come and take care of me. I had actually ended up there at the age of 10, when my pack got invaded. My mother had told me to run into the woods and never look back, and I had never looked back. Anything I had done was purely to survive. But I never really had that provider mindset that alphas had. I was never really aggressive either, so when I had gotten my first rut, I was so confused I had no idea what to do. Because if I think about it, I felt more like an omega.”

Jungkook paused to see Namjoon’s reaction. Namjoon tried to keep a neutral face, not wanting to deter Jungkook from his story.

“So when you had told me this would be a possibility, I don’t think I showed it but I was absolutely elated at the prospect of getting to be an omega. And now that I am, it feels more natural anyway. When I presented as an alpha, it would constantly be a struggle to follow my instincts. It felt like my wolf and I were never on the same page. But now, it feels like I am actually me. Does that make me weird?” Jungkook looked like he was on the verge of tears again, and Namjoon would be damned if he let his mate feel any type of sorrow.

“No it doesn’t baby. Not at all. I would have wanted and taken care of you had you been any subgender. But I am glad you finally feel at peace with yourself my love. That is all I could ask for.”

Jungkook bursts into tears at that, quickly pulling Namjoon into a hug. “I love you, Kim Namjoon.” 

“I love you too… my omega.”

He heard Jungkook sob even louder at that, and the two held each other for a while after that. 

—

It was sometime later that Namjoon smelled the spearmint scent had gotten tooth-achingly sweeter. He started feeling Jungkook writhe against, heat taking over his body. A gentle rain could be heard outside, the rhythmic pattern against the window blending with Jungkook’s unsteady breaths. The Alpha moved to hover over him, eyes darkened with want, as he looked into Jungkook’s star filled eyes.

Jungkook looked like the epitome of sin. Those doe eyes looked at him like they were pleading with him. “Alpha, please.” 

Namjoon’s restraint crumbled, and suddenly, his hands were everywhere—gripping Jungkook’s hips, ghosting over the sensitive dip of his waist, kneading at his thighs to pull him impossibly closer. His mouth was hungry, moving down Jungkook’s neck, nipping and soothing in equal measure. He moved his hand down Jungkook’s body, past his aching cock, to his puckering hole. And what he felt had him groaning. Namjoon let out a ragged growl, his body trembling with restraint.

“You’re dripping for me,” Namjoon rasped, voice raw with awe. “So ready.”

Jungkook whimpered, rolling his hips up in silent pleas. “Please—”

Namjoon didn’t make him beg.

With a single, fluid motion, he dipped his head lower, pressing open-mouthed kisses down Jungkook’s chest, then his stomach, before settling between his thighs.

Jungkook’s breath hitched as Namjoon tasted him again.

The Alpha groaned at the first brush of his tongue against Jungkook’s entrance, as if the very flavor of him was intoxicating. Spearmint exploded on his tongue as he continued to lick his hole. He was already addicted before, but with the mix of slick, Namjoon wished he could just live between his legs. His hands gripped Jungkook’s thighs, spreading them further as he devoured him—slow, deep strokes of his tongue that had Jungkook trembling, writhing against the sheets. Namjoon worked him open, relentless and thorough, his tongue pressing deeper, curling, teasing at the rim of his entrance. Jungkook sobbed at the feeling, slick gushing at the attention.

“So good,” Namjoon muttered, voice muffled against his heat. “So sweet.”

Jungkook could only whimper, toes curling against the sheets as pleasure coiled tight in his belly. Namjoon wasn’t satisfied with just that. He eased a thick finger inside, stretching Jungkook open in slow, careful thrusts. Then another, scissoring him open as his tongue continued to work his entrance, lapping at the mess Jungkook was making. Jungkook’s body tensed, then shook as the pleasure snapped. His release washed over him in waves, his body arching off the bed as he sobbed Namjoon’s name, thighs trembling in the Alpha’s grasp. But Namjoon wasn’t done. As Jungkook came down from his high, boneless and dazed, Namjoon rose above him, slick fingers gripping his hips as he lined himself up. But before Namjoon could push in. Jungkook let out a whine of displeasure. Namjoon moved back, thinking he hurt his omega, only to see Jungkook turn on to his belly. He moved onto his knees while he tucks his head down, finally presenting to his alpha. He barely had time to breathe before Namjoon pushed in. The stretch was intoxicating. Namjoon was thick, and despite this not being the first time, Jungkook felt every inch as the Alpha buried himself to the hilt, his cock throbbing inside the tight, wet heat. Namjoon groaned, head falling forward, his arms trembling as he fought not to rut into him like a feral beast.

“You take me so well,” Namjoon whispered, reverence laced in his voice. “Like you were made for me.”

Jungkook’s fingers dug into the sheets as he felt Namjoon kiss up his spine, spreading his leg wider. “I am,” he gasped. “Please, Alpha. Take me, take your omega.”

Namjoon lost it. He set a punishing pace, hips snapping against Jungkook’s with desperate, unrelenting thrusts. The sound of skin meeting skin filled the room, mingling with Jungkook’s broken moans and Namjoon’s deep, possessive growls.

“Mine,” Namjoon snarled, teeth grazing Jungkook’s throat.

Jungkook sobbed. “Yours—always yours—”

Namjoon’s knot was swelling, but before it could lock them together, Namjoon pulled out and flipped them over. Jungkook whined in displeasure before Namjoon pacified him with kisses. 

“Mark me Jungkook-ah. I want to be yours too.”

Jungkook nodded frantically as Namjoon entered his omega again. He set a punishing pace, knot swelling and locking them together, sending pleasure spiraling through them both. Jungkook trembled, the overwhelming fullness pushing him toward the edge once more.

And then—just as the pleasure crested—Jungkook sank his teeth into Namjoon’s claiming gland. Jungkook shattered. His body clenched around Namjoon’s knot as he came with a cry, his vision going white. Namjoon groaned, burying himself as deep as possible, knot locking them together as he spilled inside him, filling Jungkook with warmth. The bond fully snapped into place, their scents intertwining, sealing them together in a way that was eternal. Jungkook clung to him, panting, utterly spent. Namjoon softened, his rough edges smoothing as he nuzzled against Jungkook’s hair, pressing a soft kiss to his temple.

“My omega, my mate. Only mine,” he murmured, voice thick with devotion.

Jungkook smiled, eyes fluttering shut. “Yours.”

Chapter Text

“Taeho, Jiho come it’s dinner time,” Hoseok called out to his two kids.

“Coming appa!” The two five-year-olds called back, finishing up their game. 

“Make sure to bring Jungna and Jiyoon with you too please.” 

The two pups then proceeded to wrangle their 4-year-old friends, as they all raced to the dining hall. 

As soon as they were inside, they ran to their respective parents. Jiyoon promptly found her papa.

“Papa! I missed you,” she said as she scented her father. 

“I missed you too baby,” he scented.

“Be careful baby, I told you, papa has another pup in his belly,” Yoongi said as he sat next to his pup, and his beautiful mate Seokjin.

Jiyoon gave an adorable pout. “Sorry appa.”

“Aish, don’t listen to your appa. He can just be a little overprotective,” Seokjin jokes, and gives his pup and alpha kisses.  

Taeho and Jiho ran to their appa Hoseok first to be scented, before spotting one of their papas. 

“Papa Jimin, Papa Jimin!” The two made a beeline for the omega who was gathering food for his family. 

“My babies, come give Papa Jimin kisses,” he said as he bent down to scent his pups. 

“Oh, so nothing for Papa TaeTae?,” they heard behind them. They turned to see their beloved papa TaeTae adorably pouting and promptly ran to him.

“We didn’t see you Papa TaeTae. We give you kithes too,” as they ran to give their papa all the love in the world. At that, Taehyung flashed his boxy smile, gathering up the pups to take them to the table. 

There, they were met with Junga on her appa’s lap, regaling her adventures with her friends around the pack. Namjoon listened with rapt attention, asking all the right questions at the right time. She was the perfect mix of the two, but what made her even more special was that she had inherited her papa’s doe eyes. It was safe to say Jungna was appa’s little girl. The only one to hold more power than her, would be his beautiful mate, who was watching the scene unfold in front of him with the softest smile on his face. After the pups were fed by their respective parents, they went off again to wreak havoc around the dining hall. Namjoon took the opportunity to move closer to Jungkook, hand coming up to protectively cradle his mate and their unborn pup. 

“And how is my beautiful mate and our pup doing?” Namjoon asked, pressing light kisses to Jungkook’s neck, right where his mating mark was. 

“We would be doing better, if we had some more watermelon,” Jungkook asked, making his doe eyes even wider as he looked at his mate.

“I’ll be right back my love,” and with that Namjoon was practically running to where the food was, looking for the best pieces of watermelon he could find.

When he made his way back, his mate’s eyes lit up with joy, moving to happily munch on his watermelon. He could see his friends snickering at how whipped he was for his mate.

“You’re lucky Jungkook isn’t evil, cause I swear one will look from him and you’d probably bring him the moon if he’d ask,” Jimin practically cackled.

“Well jokes on you Jimin-ssi, I’d do that regardless.” Namjoon puffed his chest. If you had Jungkook as your mate, why on Earth would you NOT bring him the moon?

Jimin couldn’t help but laugh at his friend's behavior. He was just happy that his friend was finally happy. After dinner, the group moved to retire to their respective homes for the night. Namjoon made sure to carry Jungna back home. The pup had exhausted herself with all her playing and promptly fell asleep in his arms. The family made their way over to their hut, which was formerly Namjoon’s hut. Jungkook had moved in shortly after his rut/heat ended. Contrary to what they thought, Jungkook’s transition went quite seamlessly. Maybe it’s because his body had already desired it, but Namjoon is just glad his mate wasn’t in pain. It was about a month later that they found out they were expecting. When Jungna was born, Namjoon was so overjoyed he threw a pack celebration that lasted all of three days. And now they were expecting their next little one. Namjoon was already devising a plan on how to make the celebrations even better.

The family entered the hut and placed Jungna in her room. Namjoon’s hut was significantly bigger, as he was the pack alpha. It was perfect for growing a family. Namjoon made his way to his room where he found Jungkook changing. Five years had passed and it still couldn’t change how he felt about his love. His mate. His omega. He saw miles upon miles of milky smooth skin come into sight as Jungkook removed his clothes. His hair was longer now, reaching his mid back, but beautiful regardless. His nipples were peaked due to the cold air. His perky butt made the heat stir in Namjoon’s lower belly. But what really made his pants tighten was the bump his gorgeous mate was carrying. It was just starting to show, but it was proof of his seed catching. Proof of his pup that the omega was carrying. Jungkook must have finally smelt Namjoon's arousal that was quickly wafting the room, as his hands that were halfway to reaching for his sleep wear paused in their action. He looked up to see Namjoon staring at him intently. The look sent shivers down his spine, his own sweetening spearmint rising to meet Namjoon’s musky sandalwood.

“Alpha?” He meekly said. If Namjoon hadn’t known him for years now, he would have thought it was said from a place of fear. But there was no mistaking the way his mate’s pupils dilated at the sight of Namjoon’s arousal. He could tell it would be a long night.

Namjoon slowly closed the distance between them, eyes roaming every inch of milky white skin he could see. His hands came to rest on his mate’s hips, as he leaned in, breath ghosting Jungkook’s neck. He left a small kiss on the mating mark there, almost too innocent for what was running through the alpha’s mind. He trailed up to Jungkook’s ear, leaving chaste kisses in its wake.

“My omega. My gorgeous mate. How do you never cease to look so ravishing?” Jungkook whimpered at his words as his hold tightens on his hips. He gently guided Jungkook to lie down on the bed as fit himself between his legs. Doe eyes looked up at him as the epitome of innocence and sin. The contrast drove Namjoon insane. 

“Alpha, please…” Jungkook pleaded, starting to get restless. The omega had starting leaking copious amounts of slick at his alpha’s words and scent. 

“You don’t have to beg, precious. Alpha will give you everything you want.”

And with that, he pulled Jungkook into a searing kiss. He made sure to be mindful of his belly as he devoured Jungkook’s lips with his own. He swiped his tongue across his bottom lip, asking for entrance, which his omega granted immediately. He spent minutes or hours, he couldn’t tell, invading the sweet cavern that was his omega’s mouth before he started trailing down his neck. There were still some faded bruises on his neck from a few nights ago, but Namjoon knew his omega looked the prettiest with his marks. With renewed determination, Namjoon sucked fresh ones onto his beloved’s skin, earning the most delicious moans in return. He continued down, marking his way down Jungkook’s neck, leaving bruises anywhere his lips touched. Namjoon stopped to admire his omega’s chest. It had gotten softer and a bit more rounder with the new pup on the way, and would only grow until he gave birth. He didn’t waste any time and took one in his mouth, earning another broken moan. Jungkook tried to desperately cover his mouth, but Namjoon wasn’t having it. 

“It’s okay baby, she’s asleep. Let me hear you. Let me know how good your alpha makes you feel.” They had learned long ago that their pup was one heavy sleeper. Once she was asleep, it was almost impossible to wake her up. Jungkook still couldn’t help but feel he needed to be quiet, but Namjoon was hell bent on taking advantage of that. 

Namjoon resumed his ministrations, Jungkook moaning unrestrained now. After giving both nipples his attention, he trailed his attention to where he had been dying to be all night. He left a small soft kiss on his mate’s bump, until he was face to face with the most glorious sight he knew. His omega's cock was flush and erect, precum dripping all over his belly. His thighs were soaked with slick, pooling on the mattress beneath them. Namjoon’s mouth watered as he took in the sight beneath him, aching to finally have a taste of his omega. Anticipating his beloved's reaction, he gently but firmly pinned Jungkook’s hips down. Namjoon bent down and placed a few chaste kisses on the tip of Jungkook’s cock, before taking the tip in his mouth. He slowly sunk down until he had it fully in his mouth. Namjoon loved how his baby was so cute and small, how he didn’t even hit the back of his throat. He continues to move up and down, receiving little “Ah, Ah, Ah’s” from his pretty mate. It didn’t take long until he felt the tell tale sign of his omega being close.

“Alpha, alpha, I.. I’m gonna.. Ah , I’m gonna” Jungkook’s voice started pitching higher and higher. Namjoon sucked even harder, aching to feel his mate’s release. After a few more harsh sucks, Namjoon heard the broken cry of his name as he felt Jungkook coming undone. He swallowed up every drop his omega offered, working him through his orgasm, until he heard his omega whimper from overstimulation. Namjoon slid off his cock with a pop, taking in the sight of his wrecked omega. His skin was glistening with a red flush working its way all over his body. He was still recovering from his release, panting from how hard he came. If Namjoon was more of a gentleman, he may have stopped there and let his mate have a moment. But the thing is, he hadn’t even gotten to his favorite part yet, and both he and Jungkook knew this night was far from over.

“My lovely omega, you did so good for Alpha. Such a good omega. Came so well for me. You can do it again, right baby?” Namjoon’s eyes darkened again, not really waiting for an answer.

He didn’t waste anymore time, as he lowered his face again between his legs, bypassing his mate's softened cock. Namjoon parted Jungkook’s cheeks while keeping him pinned down, eyeing the hole he had been dying to have his mouth on. If Namjoon could choose one place to spend the rest of his life, it would 100% be between his omega’s legs. He doesn’t think he could tell anyone why he loves eating his little omega out so much, but he knows it makes him almost feral. To the point, he thinks it might be more for him than Jungkook. He had learned early on that if he made Jungkook come first, it would take longer for Jungkook to come again. Meaning he could spend more time where he really wanted.  

After showing what he thinks is remarkable restraint, he finally noses along his mate’s thighs, leaving wet kisses and marks along the way. He takes a deep inhale of his mate’s dizzying scent, spearmint invading his senses tenfold. He starts off the same, leaving chaste kisses on the puckering hole. Soon, he flattens his tongue against the hole, spearmint exploding on his tongue. “Fuck,” he feels his eyes roll back as he lets out a low moan, matching the high pitched one he hears his omega cry out. Nothing in this world could beat the taste of his omega, he is sure of it. He dives back in, tongue licking with a new fervor. He continues to suck and lick at Jungkook’s rim, moaning every now and then as he does. He feels Jungkook trembling from overstimulation and runs his hands over his thighs to soothe him. He can hear him let out a few whimpers mixed with his moans. He does not let up whatsoever, mouth glued to his rim like he’s been starved for days. Namjoon feels hands grab his hair when his tongue finally breaches the tiny hole. He can feel Jungkook trying to buck into Namjoon’s face, but Namjoon’s hands keep him pinned in place. He works his tongue in and out, trying to coax more of the sweet, delicious slick out of his mate. He shifts his eyes up to see his mate’s eyes shut tight with a blissed out face as Namjoon worked him open. Namjoon stopped briefly, earning a whimper of discontent. 

“Eyes on me pup. And they stay on me.” Namjoon commanded, earning another broken moan. His mate opened his eyes, and Namjoon made his way back to his omega’s hole, eyes never leaving the other. Namjoon continued to work his tongue in his omega. He could feel the walls relaxing as he continued to suck and lick at the delicious nectar gushing from his mate’s sweet hole. The omega’s chest began to rise and fall in short breaths, as he began squeezing around his alpha’s tongue. 

“Alpha, again… I’m gonna… ah, oh, Alpha… Namjoon” Jungkook moaned, and Namjoon could tell he was really close.

“Come for me, precious,” Namjoon said as he quickly went back to finishing his omega off.

It was like Jungkook was just waiting for those words, as he came again, gushing on Namjoon’s face as he painted his stomach white. Namjoon groans as he feels his omega’s release hit his face and drip down his chin. He tries to get every drop before he finally makes his way back up to Jungkook’s face. He could see his omega is completely blissed out, flushed even more than before if that was possible, as he babbles something to himself, a smile on his face. 

“My sweet omega, my love. How do you feel? Do you want to stop or keep going?” Namjoon normally wouldn’t ask, knowing both him and Jungkook could go for quite some time. But since he’s pregnant, he wanted his mate to have the option to stop if needed. 

Jungkook opens his eyes slightly, almost like he’s drunk. His expression is content, until he furrows his brows slightly, almost in offense.

“Knot.. alpha knot. Want knot,” he slurs out, hands reaching to try and get rid of Namjoon’s clothes. His movements are a bit lazy, still recovering from the two orgasms he had back to back, but seems determined nonetheless. 

Namjoon smiles at his adorable baby’s antics, and quickly moves to help his omega get rid of his clothes. Once he’s naked, he pumps his cock once or twice, all the while eyeing his omega. Jungkook, who was still a little hazy, perks up at the sight of his alpha's cock. He immediately moves to try and take him in his mouth, but Namjoon keeps him firmly pinned in place.

“Not today, precious. Today I want you to just relax and let Alpha do everything.” Namjoon left a soothing peck on his mate’s forehead as he said that. Seeing the bump only reminded Namjoon of how much his omega has given him, with one already beautiful and healthy pup and another on the way. Namjoon would be a fool if he did not let his mate know how much he appreciated him. 

Namjoon lined himself up and pushed in slowly, watching his mate’s expressions closely. He kept going slowly until he was buried to the hilt. No matter how much they did this, Jungkook would always need a minute to adjust, which Namjoon was more than happy to give him. While he waited, he let his lips meet his love’s in a slow, unhurried kiss, much different than how they started. He felt arms go around his neck, as he grabbed Jungkook’s waist, lips meeting like they had all the time in the world. He felt Jungkook nod against him, lips never leaving his. He propped himself on his elbows, careful of the bump, as he slowly pushed out and back in. He kept the rhythm slow, long deep strokes earning him equally long, unhurried moans. They kept trading kisses as Namjoon thrust in and out of his mate. He changed the angle at one point, and was met with a sharp cry from the trembling omega beneath him, letting him know he found it. He made sure to hit there every thrust, finding Jungkook rolling his eyes in pleasure. He could see tears escaping his omega, which he kissed away. He could feel how overwhelmed his omega was through the bond, his feelings not much different. He rested his forehead against his omega as he continued. Eventually he felt his omega clenching around him, indicating his impending orgasm. But before Jungkook could crest over, Namjoon pulled out, earning a pained whimper.

“Shhhh baby, I got you I promise. Can you just turn to your side for me, my love?”

Jungkook didn’t hesitate to quickly turn to his body, while Namjoon settled behind him. He entered Jungkook again, this time setting a slightly faster pace. He felt his knot starting to catch and quickly grabbed a hold of Jungkook’s cock. He stroked him at the same pace of his thrusts, his knot finally catching. As soon as it did, he felt Jungkook clench around him tightly, his release coating his hand, while Namjoon came inside of him. They both took a minute to come down from their high. Namjoon pulled Jungkook closer, soothing him with his clean hand, while wiping the dirty one on the bed. They’ll clean it later. After he felt Jungkook relaxing into him, he placed chaste kisses on whatever skin he could reach. He felt Jungkook purring against him as Namjoon nuzzled into his scent gland, smelling the contentment in his mate’s spearmint scent.

“Sleep my love. We can clean up in the morning.” Jungkook didn’t protest, and snuggled more into his alpha. They were usually up before Jungna anyway, so they knew they should be okay before their pup came barrelling into their room for morning kisses.

As he felt his mate’s breaths begin to even out Namjoon couldn’t help but feel so relieved that life turned out for them this way. Never more grateful that a mysterious rogue pup found his pack of all packs. And maybe his mate was feeling it too, cause a few moments later, he heard his beloved’s sleepy voice.

“I love you Namjoon. I don’t think you will ever know how grateful I am to have found you.” 

With slight tears in his eyes, Namjoon pulled his mate closer, hands splayed protectively over his bump. “Oh my precious baby, I love you too. I don’t think you will ever know how grateful I am that I get to be yours.” 

And with that the two mates fell asleep, contentment washing over them in waves. They had each other and their pups. And life was sweeter than sweet.